bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic models for the development of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis
Authors: Geneva-Popova Mariela , Hodzhev Vladimir , Popova-Belova Stanislava
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common worldwide disease in adults over 50 years of age. The clinical diagnosis at the beginning of the disease is very difficult, even impossible, without typical symptoms and image changes. Mathematical models for searching risk factors include analysing medical history data, comorbidities, biochemical and instrumental results.

Aim: The aim of the study was to analyse the demographic, clinical, biochemical, and imaging findings in patients with DISH and develop prognostic models to help identify risk factors for the disease.

Materials and methods: We analysed 124 patients with diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis treated at the Clinic of Rheumatology in St George University Hospital, Plovdiv between 2013 and 2020. All biochemical and imaging studies were performed in the facilities of the University Hospital. SPSS, ver. 26 was used for the statistical analysis.

Results: One-way analysis of history and clinical symptoms showed the highest prognostic value with OR>4 for over 50 years, mechanical pain in the thoracic and cervical spine, and Ott’s symptom, OR >3 for Hirz’s symptom, and OR>2 for thoracic spine stiffness, clinical evidence of spine fracture, and the Shober’s symptom. We found that the highest prognostic value for the risk factors of DISH is elevated triglycerides, increased glucose, increased total cholesterol, and increased uric acid (OR over 5).

Conclusions: Our mathematical models determined the risk factors for development of DISH using different variables from the history, laboratory parameters, and imaging studies. These mathematical models are easy to apply and can be used routinely in clinical practice.
Vitamin D supplementation in patients with atopic dermatitis, chronic urticaria and contact irritant and allergic dermatitis – possible improvement without risk
Authors: Lugović-Mihić Liborija , Mandušić Nikolina , Dasović Marina , Pondeljak Nives , Kuna Matea , Pozderac Iva
Published: June 2022

Abstract

Introduction: There has been a lot of talk lately about the importance of reduced serum vitamin D levels and their supplementation for patients with inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis (AD) and other allergic diseases. Serum vitamin D values are associated with a number of factors such as limited sunlight exposure (modern lifestyle, extended indoor stay, enhanced sun protection, etc.) which can affect different diseases.

Aim: To evaluate serum vitamin D values in patients with inflammatory skin diseases, comparing them on the basis of other parameters (age, gender/sex, residential areas, total serum IgE), and establishing whether vitamin D supplementation would affect the improvement of the clinical picture of the disease.

Patients and methods: A total of 157 patients participated in this prospective study: 51 patients with AD, 55 with chronic urticaria (CU) and 51 with contact dermatitis (CD): 38 with irritant CD (ICD) and 13 with allergic CD (ACD). In all patients, the values of serum vitamin D were determined by chemiluminescence microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) and compared by diagnosis, age, sex, living environment, values of total IgE. In patients with reduced values of vitamin D, its supplementation for 3 months was recommended, after which the second evaluation of D vitamin values and disease status were determined and compared with an untreated/unsupplemented group with normal vitamin D values.

Results: Vitamin D deficiency was often observed in patients with AD, CU and CD, most frequently in the ICD group, and least frequently in the ACD group. No significant differences were found in terms of age, gender or living environment, nor was any correlation with total IgE found. In the subjects supplemented with vitamin D, their levels increased significantly and, after its supplementation, improvement of the clinical condition was more common than in the untreated group; however, the differences were not statistically significant (69.8 vs. 58.1, p=0.428).

Conclusions: Although serum vitamin D levels of the groups did not differ significantly, the supplementation of vitamin D in patients with prominent vitamin D deficiency may be useful and crucial for improving the prognosis of the disease.
Disaster medical support plan as an element of the hospital disaster resilience
Authors: Georgieva Mariya , Kostadinov Rostislav , Semerdjieva Mariya
Published: June 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Every disastrous event, by definition, results in infrastructure damage and a large number of casualties that exceeds the community’s ability to respond effectively and quickly to the human and material losses. The ability to respond quickly, adequately, and effectively in emergency situations, by changing the activities performed and to restore the state of functionality in a short time before disaster is defined as hospital disaster resilience. In order for disaster resilience to be granted for effective and adequate disaster response, the medical staff has to be aware of and trained on medical specialists’ activities described in the disaster medical support plan.

Aim: To analyse the medical professionals’ awareness of hospital disaster medical support plan and its impact on the disaster resilience.

Materials and methods: A 55-question anonymous survey was conducted among 295 hospital professionals in Plovdiv Region between July and September 2019. The respondents were questioned about their awareness of the medical activities described in the hospital disaster medical support plan. Descriptive statistics was used to calculate the relative percentages, along with the Pearson chi-square test and Spearman’s correlation. All descriptive and analytical analyses were performed using SPSS v. 21 for Windows XP.

Results: Thoroughly performed analyses of the respondents’ answers presents that the medical specialists in Plovdiv Region are not well informed about the hospital disaster medical support plan’s content.

Conclusions: Poor knowledge about the required changes into every medical specialist’s activities in case of a disaster has a negative impact on the hospital resilience.
A recent solidification approach for nanosuspension: formulation, optimisation and evaluation of canagliflozin immediate release pellets
Authors: Patel Nisha C. , Patel Hitesh A.
Published: June 2022

Abstract

Introduction: Canagliflozin is a BCS class IV drug. Nanosuspension is known to enhance the saturation solubility and dissolution rate of poorly soluble drugs owing to the increased surface area of nanosized particles.

Aim: In the present study, we aimed to improve the dissolution characteristics of a poorly water-soluble drug canagliflozin by nanosuspension formulation and stability of this solubility enhancing system - nanosuspension can be improved by converting them into solidified forms as immediate release pellets.

Materials and methods: Canagliflozin nanosuspension was formulated using the media milling method. Poloxamer 407 was used to stabilise nanosuspension. Prepared nanosuspensions were subjected to the characterisation of particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and drug content. Optimised nanosuspension (NS1) was solidified by converting into immediate release pellets: as improved stability, where canagliflozin nanosuspension was used as a binder. Pellets were prepared by +extrusion-spheronization technique using microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as pelletizing aid and sodium starch glycolate as super disintegrant. Different important process parameters e.g. concentration of sodium starch glycolate (A), spheronization speed (B) and spheronization time (C) were investigated by 23 factorial design to accomplish desired disintegration time (R1) and drug release at 10 min (R2).

Results: The optimised nanosuspension had 120.5 nm particle size, 99.14% drug content and the optimised immediate release pellets (PF5) disintegrated within 23.29 second, and had 99.11% drug content. In vitro dissolution studies showed 89.59% drug release within 10 min in 0.75% w/v SLS. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed uniform and spherically shaped pellets. Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis reveal no significant interaction between drug and excipients.

Conclusions: It can be concluded from the findings of this study that the formulation of nanosuspension and its use as a binder in the formulation of immediate release pellets should be investigated further in order to improve the dissolution rate and formulation stability.
Detection of Centistes sp. (Hymenoptera, Braconidae) from intercepted Diabrotica undecimpunctata (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae) using CO1 DNA barcodes and larval morphology
Authors: Wilson Christina R. , Cooke-McEwen Crystal , Gilligan Todd M. , Tembrock Luke R.
Published: June 2022

Globalized trade has resulted in the incidental translocation of numerous insect species, some of which have become invasive in their expanded ranges. While rigorous inspection programs are a regular part of commodity importation, rarely if ever are the internal contents of intercepted insects examined. As part of a genetic diversity project on intercepted Diabrotica undecimpunctata beetles, we detected CO1 DNA that closely matched sequences from Centistes parasitoid wasps in 9% of our samples. The presence of internal parasitoids was confirmed through dissections and imaging, wherein the samples were morphologically consistent with Centistes larvae. Such a discovery suggests that insect translocation as part of trade can be more diverse than initially thought. The case of Centistes in imported Diabrotica may present a positive benefit specifically to agroecosystems through the biological control of pest beetles like Diabrotica. However, drawbacks from such introductions include off-target parasitism of non-pest beetles and resultant impacts to insect populations in undisturbed ecosystems. Thus, examination of intercepted insects beyond the initial species identification is warranted to better understand the potential impacts of human mediated insect translocations. Methods employing high-throughput sequencing and metabarcoding are well suited for such broad-scale identification projects where Diabrotica would be an excellent candidate for this work.
Not (only) poison pies – Hebeloma (Agaricales, Hymenogastraceae) in Mexico
Authors: Eberhardt Ursula , Kong Alejandro , Montoya Adriana , Schütz Nicole , Bartlett Peter , Beker Henry J.
Published: June 2022

The species of Hebeloma have been little studied in Mexico, but have received attention as edibles and in trials to enhance production of edible fungi and tree growth through inoculation of seedlings with ectomycorrhizal fungi. Here we describe three new species of Hebeloma that are currently known only from Mexico. These species belong to separate sections of the genus: H. ambustiterranum is a member of H. sect. Hebeloma, H. cohaerens belongs to H. sect. Theobromina, while H. magnicystidiatum belongs to H. sect. Denudata. All three species were collected from subtropical pine-oak woodland; all records of H. cohaerens came from altitudes above 2500 m. Hebeloma ambustiterranum is commonly sold in the local markets of Tlaxcala as a prized edible mushroom. An additional nine species are reported from Mexico, of which eight are new records for the country: H. aanenii, H. eburneum, H. excedens, H. ingratum, H. neurophyllum, H. sordidulum, H. subaustrale and H. velutipes. First modern descriptions of H. neurophyllum and H. subaustrale, originally described from the USA, are given here.
Transdisciplinary deficit in large carnivore conservation funding in Europe
Authors: Papp Cristian-Remus , Scheele Ben C. , Rákosy László , Hartel Tibor
Published: June 2022

Achieving coexistence between humans and large carnivores in human-shaped landscapes is a complex challenge. Addressing this challenge requires the revaluation of the approaches academia uses to foster carnivore conservation and human-large carnivore coexistence. In this forum paper, we provide a brief overview of the three archetypical approaches of knowledge generation for large carnivore conservation in human dominated landscapes (disciplinary, interdisciplinary and emerging transdisciplinary approaches) and highlight the need for more explicit consideration of transdisciplinarity in large carnivore conservation funding. We refer to transdisciplinary deficit (TDD) for those situations when the context allows the implementation of transdisciplinarity but research and practice remains disciplinary or interdisciplinary. We identify drivers of this TDD and provide a brief overview of current and past conservation funding programmes at the European level in terms of their capacity to promote transdisciplinary approaches for large carnivore conservation. We show that current funding programmes favour sectorial and disciplinary approaches, resulting in low transdisciplinary substance in large carnivore conservation projects. TDD can be overcome by transforming the character of public funding towards multi-stakeholder collaboration, designing and nurturing effective communities of practice, and reducing co-financing rates for large, integrated projects.
Identifying key risks to the achievement of protected area system objectives
Authors: Alberts Reece , Retief Francois , Roos Claudine , Cilliers Dirk , Lubbe Willem
Published: June 2022

Protected area systems are designed in law and policy towards achieving certain policy objectives. These systems rely on legal frameworks that determine how countries designate, declare and manage their protected areas. To date, little research has been conducted on the risks faced by protected area systems. To this end, this paper aims to identify the key risks for protected area systems achieving their objectives. This is achieved through the application of Theory of Change (ToC), which is internationally recognised as the preferred method to identify underlying assumptions and risks within policy and legal frameworks. We achieve this aim through a case study analysis of the South African protected area system as embedded in law and policy. The application of the ToC method identified 25 underlying assumptions and risks which are central to the protected area system achieving its objectives. Understanding these risks allows for a better understanding of the potential failure of the system and how to avoid it. The paper then explores and discusses the identified risks in terms of existing literature and concludes by making recommendations related to further research for the identified risks.
First record of Lestes concinnus (Zygoptera: Lestidae) from Sri Lanka with observations on its natural history
Authors: Sumanapala Amila , Ranasinghe Tharindu
Published: June 2022

Lestes concinnus is a widespread species in tropical Asia and Oceania. It is a species known to have variable colour patterns ranging between pale and dark phenotypes which have earlier been recognized as distinct species. Lestes concinnus has never been known from Sri Lanka before. We report observations of both phenotypes of the species and intermediate morphs of Lestes concinnus from coastal habitats with dry reed patches in the northern part of the country, adding it to the Odonata fauna of Sri Lanka. With multiple field observations examined, we also provide comments on its identification and natural history in the country.
New mandibular remains of Callistoe (Metatheria, Sparassodonta) reveal unexpected anatomical, functional, and evolutionary aspects of this carnivorous genus
Authors: Babot M. Judith , Rougier Guillermo W. , García-López Daniel A. , Bertelli Sara B. , Herrera Claudia M. , Deraco M. Virginia , Giannini Norberto P.
Published: June 2022

We present a detailed description of the anatomy of the dentary and lower teeth of a new specimen ofCallistoe vincei, a large carnivorous metatherian from the Eocene (?Ypresian) of northwestern Argentina. The recently collected specimen is a young adult represented by a partial right dentary with the canine, p1, roots of p3, and very well-preserved m1 to m4. The description includes a comparison with the holotype specimen, a much older individual, and other closely related large sparassodonts (e.g.,Arminiheringia). The analysis of this new material allowed identifying plesiomorphic molar features inCallistoe, such as the presence of a reduced metaconid on the m3 and a tricuspated, basined talonid on m1–m3. We also described the mesowear facets in the lower dentition, showing that the self-sharpening facet typically present in extinct and extant placental and some marsupial carnivorous forms, was absent inCallistoe. The presence of a short-term cutting edge in the trigonid related to the thinness of the enamel layer, and the associated tooth wear susceptibility, were likely compensated by a dental mechanism (overeruption) to maintain occlusal contact among antagonist teeth. This process could explain the marked extrusion of the tooth roots observed inCallistoeas well as in other large closely related members of the group.
Effets de la COVID-19 sur le marché du travail en Afrique subsaharienne : analyse sous le prisme de l’informalité au Burkina Faso, Mali et Sénégal
Authors: Balde Racky , Boly Mohamed , Avenyo Elvis
Published: June 2022

La pandémie de COVID-19 est une crise mondiale qui a mis en lumière les défis socioéconomiques de l’Afrique subsaharienne. Cet article présente des données d’enquête en temps réel sur les effets de la COVID-19 sur le marché du travail pendant le pic de la pandémie en 2020 dans trois pays d’Afrique de l’Ouest : le Sénégal, le Mali et le Burkina Faso. Nous étudions comment l’informalité exacerbe les effets immédiats de la pandémie de COVID-19 sur la perte d’emploi, la diminution des revenus et les difficultés des individus à subvenir à leurs besoins essentiels. Notre analyse documente une réduction des activités économiques et constate que les travailleurs de l’économie informelle ont eu tendance à être plus durement touchés par la pandémie de COVID-19. Les travailleurs informels étaient plus susceptibles de perdre leur emploi et de subir une diminution de leurs revenus. Ces résultats sont également valables pour ceux qui travaillaient dans des secteurs à haut risque. Les travailleurs informels semblaient également être plus susceptibles d’avoir des difficultés à satisfaire leurs besoins fondamentaux au milieu de la pandémie. Nous discutons des implications politiques de ces résultats.
Apprendre par l’expérience sensible
Authors: Cludy Régine
Published: June 2022

L’auteur décrit la pertinence de la pratique phénoménologique Gestaltiste vis à vis de l’évolution de la structure sociale où le corps est mis à rude épreuve dans une société qui demande un humain toujours plus augmenté pour faire face à de nouveaux défis, au risque de le rendre sourd ou absent à son monde organique. La relation thérapeutique, en posture de champ, centrée sur la prise en conscience de l’expérience grâce à la pratique de l’attention, est le meilleur antidote à cette dévitalisation progressive et massive.
The Impact of Amplification on Cognitive Screening Test Scores
Authors: Gaeta Laura , Azzarello Jo , Baldwin Jonathan , Ciro Carrie , Hudson Mary A. , Johnson Carole E. , John Andrew B.
Published: June 2022

Hearing loss is associated with cognitive decline in older adults. Research has shown that hearing loss negatively affects cognitive screening test measures as patients may mishear verbally administered questions. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the impact of amplification on performance on a commonly used cognitive screening test. Thirty older adults with hearing loss underwent testing with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) in three conditions: without hearing aids, with hearing aids, and with a personal listening device (PLD). Performance on the MMSE significantly improved with the use of hearing aids or a PLD. Amplification and the use of communication strategies should be considered when administering cognitive screening measures to older adults. Failure to account for hearing status may lead to invalid results and can increase the likelihood of over-referral for further assessment. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48
(7), 31–37.]
Type 2 calyceal diverticulum with an unusual appearance in the lower pole of the kidney
Authors: Mohammadi Abdolreza , Nikoobakht Mohammad Reza , Gorji Daroonkolaee Alireza , Aghamir Seyed Mohammad Kazem
Published: June 2022

A 45-year-old woman presented to our clinic with intermittent left flank pain. The family physician referred her for renal cystic mass with a calcified appearance. The non-contrast spiral abdominal computed tomographic (CT) scan demonstrated the mass-like cystic lesion with a densely calcified lesion in the lower pole of the kidney. A detailed history revealed that she underwent shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) for the lower pole renal stone one year ago. After SWL, the stone fragments migrated to the dependent diverticulum region and produced the misleading appearance of a Bosniak type III lesion. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan was done for further evaluation, and finally, the diagnosis of the calyceal diverticulum was confirmed in the lower pole of the kidney. Calyceal diverticula are the outpouching of the pyelocalyceal system lined by non-secretory transitional epithelium. It is a rare condition that occurs in less than 0.5% of the population. Most patients are asymptomatic and have been discovered incidentally in routine imaging modalities. As most of the patients are asymptomatic, many do not need intervention. However, in some instances, patients present with flank pain, hematuria, urinary tract infection, and stone formation in the diverticulum. They are in the differential diagnosis of renal cystic lesions such as simple renal cyst, renal cortical abscess, and parapelvic cyst. In renal cystic lesion besides of simple renal cyst or renal cystic mass, we should keep the differential diagnosis of the calyceal diverticulum type 2, especially in patients that underwent SWL for renal stones; the fragmented residual stone may have migrated to this dilated region and produce the deceptive appearance of a Bosniak type III lesion.
Role of PET imaging in peritoneal involvement of subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Chan Darren Yak Leong , Grigoropoulos Nicholas Francis , Tay Amos Zhi En , Xie Wanying
Published: June 2022

Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma is a rare subtype of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas and represents less than 1% of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Currently, the diagnosis is based on clinical and histological findings although clinical features may be nonspecific. Often, it is localised to subcutaneous tissue without lymph node involvement. The literature is sparse but unusual presentations have been described to involve mesentery, breast and even eyelids. Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography/computed tomography has been reported to be useful in assessing disease activity, extent and treatment response in subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma but we find that it can also be a diagnostic aid for atypical presentations. In our case report, we describe a patient who presented with a neck lump but did not have any other obvious cutaneous lesions. This was biopsied and had histological features in keeping with subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma. Due to the atypical presentation, positron-emission tomography was crucial for detecting the extracutaneous and likely primary site of disease in the peritoneum, which hence guided the subsequent biopsy to this affected area and confirmed the diagnosis.
Ce que la lutte contre la radicalisation fait au métier de surveillant de prison
Authors: Chantraine Gilles , Scheer David
Published: June 2022

Cet article, basé sur une recherche ethnographique, analyse les transformations du métier de surveillant sous l’effet de la lutte contre la radicalisation et de la mise en œuvre des « quartiers d’évaluation de la radicalisation » (QER) dans les prisons françaises, en embrassant les différents types d’activité du surveillant au quotidien dans toute leur diversité : « surveiller, séparer, isoler » d’abord, « négocier, dialoguer punir » ensuite, et, enfin, « observer, consigner, tracer ». Ce cadre d’observation nous permet de décrire, dans un premier temps, la défiance guerrière qui surplombe les activités de surveillance et de contrôle. Dans un second temps, nous détaillons les formes de dialogue qui s’instaurent néanmoins entre détenus et surveillants, parfois sous-tendues par des objectifs de « déradicalisation » informelle ; enfin, nous décrivons comment l’activité d’écriture des surveillants est structurée à la fois par leur participation au travail d’évaluation des détenus, et leur enrôlement plus ou moins fort dans l’activité de renseignement pénitentiaire.
Les voyageurs à Daphné du xviiie siècle jusqu’à la fouille franco-américaine
Authors: Meyer Guy
Published: June 2022

Le site de Daphné a attiré bien moins de voyageurs que celui d’Antioche. Son identification officielle ne remonte qu’à la publication de Richard Pococke, Description of the East and Some Other Countries (Londres, 1745), mais tout porte à croire qu’il était déjà connu auparavant. Les particularités spectaculaires du site et sa réputation sulfureuse ont fait fantasmer les Occidentaux, aussi bien avant sa découverte que lors de leurs visites, car Daphné, avec ses cascades, ses cours d’eau et sa végétation luxuriante, est d’abord un endroit pittoresque. Les ruines, avant la fouille de la mission franco-américaine lancée en 1932, sont presque évanescentes : une église, des restes architecturaux mal identifiés, des canalisations souterraines et le théâtre découvert dans les dernières années du xixe siècle. Il n’a livré pour le reste que quelques antiquités isolées, des sarcophages et des inscriptions, sans contexte archéologique.
Des ruines pour la postérité ? Le temple d’Apollon à Daphné après l’incendie de 362
Authors: Davoine Charles
Published: June 2022

Le temple d’Apollon à Daphné n’a pas été intégralement détruit par l’incendie de 362 : les auteurs païens déplorent surtout la disparition de la statue du dieu, tandis que les chrétiens s’en réjouissent et insistent également sur l’embrasement du toit pour démontrer que le feu fut envoyé du ciel et ne fut pas l’œuvre des hommes. Les murs et les colonnes du temple ont continué de marquer longtemps le paysage, si l’on en croit deux œuvres de Jean Chrysostome et un passage de l’Histoire ecclésiastique de Philostorge. L’absence de restauration du bâtiment et de démolition des vestiges illustre le sort ambigu des lieux de culte païens à la fin du ive siècle et s’explique aussi par le prestige du site de Daphné et de son bois sacré. Par ailleurs, Jean Chrysostome, dans son Discours sur Babylas, donne des ruines du temple une description inédite par sa précision et leur prête la fonction de mémorial pour la postérité. Toutefois, le prédicateur chrétien n’appelle pas à une conservation volontaire des vestiges, mais son discours montre comment, dans cette période de transition religieuse, les bâtiments détruits peuvent être investis de significations radicalement nouvelles.
Le wādī Ḍuraʾ (Yémen) pendant l’Antiquité : une histoire tourmentée, révélée par les inscriptions
Authors: Robin Christian Julien
Published: June 2022

Les inscriptions relevées par la Mission archéologique française au Yémen-Sud dans le wādī Ḍuraʾ, une vallée du Yémen qui descend vers le bassin désertique intérieur du Ramlat al-Sabʿatayn, se rapportent principalement à des aménagements agricoles et hydrauliques. Elles complètent logiquement l’étude sur les ouvrages et système d’irrigation du wādī Ḍuraʾ, parue dans Syria 96 (2019), même s’il est bien difficile de faire le lien entre les aménagements qui s’observent aujourd’hui et ceux qui sont mentionnés dans les textes antiques. L’intérêt de ces inscriptions réside également dans le fait qu’elles sont rédigées dans trois langues différentes, le sabaʾique, le qatabānique et le sabaʾique de Ḥimyar. On peut en ajouter une quatrième, le ḥaḍramawtique, qui n’est pas attestée dans les inscriptions sur pierre, mais qui est utilisée dans celles sur les ustensiles métalliques de luxe provenant des tombes du wādī Ḍuraʾ. Chaque changement de domination politique a donc entraîné un changement de langue. On peut en déduire que la langue des inscriptions est celle de la classe dominante et non celle des populations ; elle ne peut être utilisée que très prudemment pour établir la carte des langues qui étaient effectivement parlées.
À la frontière des steppes syriennes : l’église deʿUqayribāt et ses mosaïques
Authors: Abdallah Komait
Published: June 2022

En 2018, le service des Antiquités de Hama (Syrie centrale) a découvert fortuitement les restes d’une église et de ses pavements dans le village de ʿUqayribāt situé à 90 km à l’est de Hama, à la frontière des steppes. Cette découverte présente un intérêt particulier puisqu’il s’agit de la première église d’époque byzantine trouvée dans la région. Elle a révélé deux niveaux de mosaïques couvrant 450 m2 environ. Les mosaïques du premier niveau, les mieux conservées, sont datées par les inscriptions entre 414/415 et 416/417 apr. J.-C ; elles présentent un programme décoratif exceptionnel qui se distingue par les motifs géométriques et les figures animalières dont certaines contiennent des significations symboliques. Les mosaïques du deuxième niveau, datées par l’épigraphie de 437/438 apr. J.-C., ne sont préservées que dans le bêma et l’abside.
Lurk or De-Lurk?
Authors: Abdelkader Ali Ahmed
Published: June 2022

Drawing on three theories; uses and gratification, social identity, and reasoned action, this study investigates the moderating role of type of participation and the sport fanaticism between brand community identification (BCI) and oppositional brand loyalty (OBL). Moreover, it explores the influence of sports fanaticism on the type of participation. A convenience sample of 455 members from the online communities of the two most famous competing clubs in Egypt (Al-Ahly and Zamalek) was used ; the validity of the proposed model has been verified. To test the proposed hypotheses, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) relying upon WarpPLS.7 was utilized. The findings indicated that sports fanaticism is more influential on posting engagement behavior than lurking engagement behavior. Moreover, BCI is a key enabler of OBL. Furthermore, the sport fanaticism does not moderate between BCI and OBL. Finally, BCI has stronger positive effect OBL among posters than lurkers in OBCs. Key academic and practical implications in sport industry are justified and clarified
Relationship and Impact of Employee Engagement on Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Qayyum Majid , Adeel Muhammad , Riaz Sidra , Saeed Mehran , Ullah Irfan , Ahmad Muhammad Subhan
Published: June 2022

Employee Engagement is counted among the major issues of the modern world. Almost every organization is confronted with it, however, it differs from organization to organization. Employee Engagement and organizational citizenship behavior, both are the prominent concepts now-a-days because they are really important for the success of an organization, these are popular and have a value between academic institutions and Industries. The current study is unique in terms of its population and area. So due to the mentioned reason current study analyze the relationship and impact of employee engagement and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB).
A Newly Developed Dispersive Interaction Approach, DFT-D3, to the Three-Dimensional Topological Host Material Sb2Te3
Authors: Shukla Nishant , Chetri Pawan , Ahmed Gazi A.
Published: June 2022

Antimony Telluride (Sb2Te3), a topological insulator is a layered semiconductor material with hexagonal unit cell similar to graphene. The characteristic presence of their conducting edges or surfaces with self-induced protection, promise for remarkable future applications. In this exertion based on the first principle approach, the structural and electronic properties of Sb2Te3 compound have been investigated for both without and with spin orbit coupling (SOC). Lattice structure, band structure, total density of states (TDOS), partial density of states (PDOS), energy bands of surface states are determined within Quantum Espresso simulation package. Furthermore, dispersive interactions, induced due to the presence of van-der-Waals forces have also been taken care of. The newly developed method of DFT-D3 has been incorporated for accurate predictions of band gap and lattice parameters. A proficient model, TheSlabModel, has been used to observe the presence of single Dirac cone on the surface. To our knowledge, our theoretical investigations are valid and are found to be congruous with the observed data.
Sustainability Assessment of Organic Farming Practices: A Comparison of Key Tools
Authors: Lone Aashiq Hussain , Rashid Irfana
Published: June 2022

Sustainable agricultural production is essential for an adequate food supply to feed the global population. One facet of efforts in making the agricultural sector more sustainable is the dramatic increase in organic farming (OF). With its current popularity, people across the globe are increasingly interested in the sustainable performance of organic production. However, accurate and timely information is scarce and there is a lacuna of knowledge among organic farmers about Sustainability Assessment (SA). Many promising SA measurement tools have been developed for the organic farming sector. However, improved procedures and a broader common knowledge are still necessary. In response, this paper provides a comprehensive comparison and scientific underpinning of the prominent tools for assessing farm sustainability to provide support for monitoring sustainable development in OF practices. This comparison can contribute to the adoption of suitable SA tools, and, thereby, the achievement of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development goals by 2030.
Psychosocial consequences and reasons for illicit drug use among police officers in a northern Nigerian city: A mixed-method study
Authors: Tsiga-Ahmed Fatimah I. , Kwaghe Kefas J. , Mukhtar Adamu M. , Bello Musa M. , Jalo Rabiu I. , Kwaku Aminatu A. , Ibrahim Usman M. , Amole Taiwo G.
Published: June 2022

Harmful use of drugs is one of the principal risk factors affecting population health worldwide. Chronic use has been linked to medical, psychological and socioeconomic consequences. This study assessed the psychosocial consequences and reasons for illicit drug use among police officers in Kano, Nigeria. Using a mixed method of data collection, quantitative data was obtained from a cross-section of 275 officers using the Shortened Inventory of Problems-Drug Use (SIP–DU) and a pretested adapted questionnaire. In-depth interviews with 10 officers who used illicit drugs provided additional information. Almost half of the respondents (46.5%, n=128) were in their fourth decade of life with a mean age (±SD) of 35.1 ± 7.7 years. Over a quarter of the respondents (n=75) reported ever using illicit drugs, out of which 14.9% (n=41) were current users. Among the current drug users, 80.5% (n=33) attested to having money problems, 61.0% (n=25) agreed that they had spent too much money, and 56.1% (n=23) failed to do what was expected of them as a result of drug use and have hurt their family. Helping to stay awake and improving confidence were the major reasons (100%, n=41) for drug use mentioned by the respondents. The Nigerian Police Force should look into easing shifts and introducing stress-relieving activities. There is also the need to strengthen substance education and counselling and support officers with confidence issues, sleep disorders, and treat those with mood disorders.
The association of bladder cancer and Cannabis: A systematic review
Authors: Mehrnoush Vahid , De Lima Stacy Grace , Kotb Ahmed , Hyndman Matthew Eric
Published: June 2022

Objective: To assess the association between Cannabis use and bladder cancer. Methods: A systematic literature review was performed using studies published in electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar. Due to the scarcity of literature on this topic, the search was not limited to a specific design, year of publication, or human studies. The studies were screened by two reviewers in the following steps; first, the studies were discovered according to the predetermined search strategy; second, the unrelated studies and duplicates were eliminated by screening the abstracts, titles, and keywords; third, the full text of relevant and eligible papers were critically appraised and assessed for the risk of bias using the respective tool. The two review authors independently assessed the risk of bias and outcome levels using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for the outcomes in observational studies. Any disagreements were settled by a third party. Results: The search strategy yielded 39 research articles. After removing 21 duplicates, 18 publications were eligible for title and abstract review. Thirteen studies were found to be irrelevant and subsequently excluded. Only three full-text articles were evaluated and included in the qualitative synthesis. Conclusions: The role of Cannabis in bladder cancer has been seldom studied. The small number of studies show contradictory findings; potential carcinogenic versus protective effect. The growing interest in Cannabis use after legalization necessitates further investigations with a robust design to assess the long-term effect of Cannabis on bladder cancer.
A case of unilateral recurrent cerebral cortical encephalitis with anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies
Authors: Guo Liying , Yun Ho Jun , Tan Xiaomu , Geng Xiaokun , Ding Yuchuan
Published: June 2022

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) is an independent inflammatory demyelinating disease. A rare phenotype of MOGAD is cerebral cortical encephalitis (CCE). This case report presents unilateral recurrent cerebral cortical encephalitis (CCE) with positive anti-MOG antibodies from a 55 year old man who was admitted with headache, fever and aphasia. This case highlights the findings of hyperintense lesions in the cortex of the right temporal gyrus with slight swelling on T2 FLAIR and anti MOG antibodies in serum (1:20) and CSF (1:80) when the patient presented again to hospital after the initial improvement with IVIG and glucocorticoids. In addition, the patient was found to have atrophy of the whole brain, especially the right temporal lobe, after becoming symptom-free with glucocorticoids. In summary, anti-MOG-associated CCE can be diagnosed with headache, fever, and seizures associated with the presence of anti-MOG antibodies. Unilateral CCE is a special clinical feature of MOGAD and cerebral atrophy can be found. Steroid therapy remains to be the standard treatment.
Lithium-associated movement disorder
Authors: Rissardo Jamir Pitton , Caprara Ana Letícia Fornari , Durante Ícaro , Rauber Ariane
Published: June 2022

In 1949, Cade described “sedative effects” after injecting guinea pigs intraperitoneally with lithium (LTM) carbonate. Based on his experiments, he began treating psychiatric patients with LTM. This literature review aims to evaluate the clinical epidemiological profile, pathological mechanisms, and management of LTM-associated movement disorder (MD). Relevant reports in six databases (Excerpta Medica, Google Scholar, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, Medline, Scientific Electronic Library Online, and ScienceDirect) were identified and assessed by two reviewers without language restriction from 1949 to 2021. A total of 250 reports containing 1100 individuals who developed MD associated with LTM were identified. The MDs encountered 148 parkinsonism (PKN), 114 dyskinesia (DKN), 97 myoclonus, 22 dystonia (DTN), 20 Creutzfeldt–Jakob-like syndrome, 11 akathisia, 10 restless legs syndrome (RLS) symptoms, 6 tics, 5 cerebellar syndromes, and 3 stuttering. In the subgroup of cases not clearly defined, there were 320 individuals with extrapyramidal symptoms, 135 with DTN, 37 with DKN, 24 with PKN, and 7 with RLS. Other 141 individuals were only described as presenting an abnormal involuntary movement without further explanation. The mean age was 53.06 years (standard deviation [SD]: 15.64) and the predominant sex was female, i.e., 56.20% (154/274). The mean LTM dose was 963.03 mg/day (SD: 392.03). The mean serum LTM level was 1.53 mEq/L (SD: 1.08). The median onset time was 3 months (1 day to 40 years). The mean recovery time was 0.94 months (SD: 0.87). 45.94% had a full recovery. LTM-induced MD was extensively reported in the literature. Only general terms were used in the majority of the reports. LTM polytherapy probably affected the identification of the MD cause.
Impact of histological clot composition on preprocedure imaging and mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Johnson Jeremiah N. , Srivatsan Aditya , Chueh Juyu , Arslanian Rose , Gounis Matthew J. , Puri Ajit S. , Srinivasan Visish M. , Chen Stephen Russell , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Kan Peter
Published: June 2022

INTRODUCTION:

We studied the relationship of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) large-vessel occlusion clot composition with vessel recanalization and preprocedure imaging.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

Individual clots from AIS patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy (MT) between September 2016 and September 2018 were examined. Clot composition was analyzed histologically through a trichrome staining and image segmentation, and the area occupied by red blood cells (RBCs), fibrin, or mixed composition was quantified.

RESULTS:

Forty-three patients (65.4 ± 12.7 years, 39% of females) who underwent 92 retrieval passes (mean 2.14, range 1–6) were included in this study. Fibrin (44%) occupied the greatest area, followed by mixed composition (34%) and RBCs (22%). A stent retriever was deployed in 81% of cases, 20 patients (47%) achieved first-pass efficacy (FPE) (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction [TICI] 2b-3 after first pass), 41 (95%) achieved successful revascularization (TICI 2b-3), and 21 (49%) had good outcome (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] ≤2) at 90 days. Hyperdense artery sign (HAS) on initial computed tomography was correlated with mixed clot composition (P = 0.01) and lack of fibrin content (P = 0.03). In the univariate analysis, FPE was associated with RBC clot area, atrial fibrillation, and occlusion location but not with fibrin clot area, mixed clot area, stroke etiology, thrombectomy technique, distal emboli, or 90-day mRS. In the multivariate analysis, FPE was significantly correlated with low RBC clot area (odd ratio = 0.96, confidence interval [0.92.99], P = 0.034) but not with atrial fibrillation or location.

CONCLUSION:

Our results suggest that HAS is correlated with mixed clot composition and lower fibrin content and that lower RBC clot composition is associated with FPE in patients undergoing MT.
A case of PUO in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Agarwal P. K. , Gulati Shipra , Garg Ambuj , Jain Sunila
Published: June 2022

Histoplasma capsulatum, a thermal dimorphic fungus, is the agent of histoplasmosis. It is a common cause of endemic mycosis. We report the case of a 64-year-old female, a known case of diabetes mellitus, hypertension, beta-thalassemia trait who presented with persistent fever, decreased appetite and weight loss for a period of 1 month and found to have anaemia and hepatosplenomegaly. She was diagnosed with histoplasmosis on liver biopsy. She was started on amphotericin ‘B’ liposomal for 14 days. She showed marked improvement symptomatically and later put on tablet itraconazole 200 mg twice a day for 1 year and was advised for follow-up.
Profile and in-hospital outcomes of deliberate self-harmed patients in a tertiary care centre
Authors: John Juby , Rashmi K. P. , Jayachandran R.
Published: June 2022

Objective:

Suicide is an unrecognised and underestimated epidemic of high complexity and accounts for premature loss of at least 1 million lives worldwide, leaving behind irreparable loss and backlash to family, friends and society. This study was carried out with the aim of analysing the clinical presentation, modes of deliberate self-harm (DSH), demographic and biochemical features with outcomes of patients presenting with DSH and admitted through the emergency unit of the medicine department to a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India.

Materials and Methods:

The clinical presentation, demographic details, psychiatric evaluation and blood investigations of patients admitted with a history of DSH during the study (2020–2021) were analysed, with special emphasis on serum cholesterol, C-reactive protein (CRP) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Results:

In this study, of the 508 patients studied, the most common mode of self-harm was poisoning by drug overdose (32.28%) followed by plant toxin poisoning and rodenticide ingestion-finding different from other studies of South India during this COVID pandemic. Values of TSH, serum cholesterol, CRP and haematogram were normal in majority of patients. All the patients underwent psychiatry evaluation in which substance abuse, adjustment disorders and personality disorders were the most common diagnosis reached.

Conclusions:

Clinical profile and methods of DSH have marked regional variation necessitating the need to create a regional database. Serum cholesterol, CRP and TSH are subject to genotypic and regional variations and thus are not reliable as biomarkers of suicidal ideation.
SARS-CoV-2 infection evolving into aplastic anaemia
Authors: Bhatia Akanksha , Kumar Vijay , Yadav Ankita
Published: June 2022

Aplastic anaemia can develop due to various viral infections. However, SARS-CoV-2 infection evolving into aplastic anaemia is rarely seen. Here, we present a case of a 6-year-old boy who presented with epistaxis and rashes all over the body after recovery from COVID-19. Peripheral blood smear examination revealed pancytopenia with neutropenia and also reticulocytopenia. Bone marrow biopsy showed a hypoplastic marrow (cellularity of 10%), leading to a diagnosis of aplastic anaemia.
Pharmacovigilance study of spontaneous adverse drug reaction in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Ali Wazid , Manjavkar Smita , Kazmi Imran , Khan Shamim Ullah
Published: June 2022

Background:

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a rapidly growing universal problem that has a significant impact on users worldwide. They are the cause of significant disability and mortality and are expected to be associated with an economic burden on the health-care system.

Aims:

To promote patient safety from pharmaceutical products.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, observational evaluation of the ADRs collected during spontaneous pharmacovigilance reporting over a period of 18 months in various hospital departments. During the study period, 214 individual case safety reports (ICSR) were reported.

Results:

The 214 reports that were identified, a slightly higher percentage of ADRs in females 105 (50.93%) was observed as compared to males 109 (49.07%), 73 (34.1%) serious and 141 (65.9%) non serious ADRs. In serious ADRs, the male patients were 35 (33.3%) and females were 38 (34.9%) including 6 (2.8%) deaths. The largest number of reports was associated with antimicrobials 41% followed by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs − 21.1%, antidiabetic − 10.9%. The most commonly implicated organ system was skin − 46.62% followed by gastrointestinal reactions − 18.05%, blood and metabolic disorder − 11.65%, central nervous system − 6.77%, liver − 6.02% and cardiovascular system (3.38%). The outcomes were recorded as recovering (45.8%), recovered (26.2%), continuing (19.2%) and unknown (6.1%) at the time of processing ICSR through vigiflow database. The causality of more than half of ADRs were recorded as possible (59.8%) followed by probable (24.8%), certain (15%) and unlikely (0.5%).

Conclusion:

Limited ADR is permissible in normal clinical trials setting; hence, spontaneous adverse reaction reporting systems need to be developed, which may improve rational drug prescribing habits to obtain maximum benefits meanwhile minimizing the risk of health from undesirable effects of drugs.