bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience and Vulnerability: Understanding Distress Tolerance and Mindfulness among Tribals with Alcohol Use Disorder in India
Authors: Ram Dushad , Joseph Bincy , Mushtaq Neha Farheen , Gopegowda Shivaramu Maragowdanahalli , Mathew Akash
Published: July 2024

Background:

Alcohol use disorder may be directly or indirectly related to mindfulness and distress tolerance, and these factors are often targeted in treatment. However, such evidence has yet to be established among tribal. The research aimed to investigate the levels and relationships of mindfulness, distress tolerance, and dependence severity among tribal individuals with alcohol use disorder.

Methodology:

Two hundred tribals with alcohol use disorder were recruited at three tertiary health-care centers in three districts and assessed with the sociodemographic and clinical pro forma, Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale-Revised (CAMSR), the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS), and Distress Tolerance Scale (DTS).

Results:

The mean score on the SDS, CAMSR, and DTS was 4.99, 23.52, and 33.44, respectively. There were no statistically significant relationships between the measure of mindfulness scores and dependence severity scores. However, the perceived capacity to endure emotional suffering and negative emotions consuming one’s focus was significantly inversely linked to the severity of dependence.

Conclusion:

There are lower distress tolerance and mindfulness levels among tribals with alcohol use disorder. The severity of alcohol use has no significant link with mindfulness, but has inversely linked with emotional distress tolerance and attention absorption by negative emotions.
Systematic Review of Rapid Typhoid Diagnostic Kits
Authors: Haritsa Kanthishree B. , Sangeetha P.
Published: July 2024

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can be fatal and a major concern globally. Due to the infection’s high morbidity and fatality rates, there is an urgent need for precise and quick diagnostic tests to help with disease management and prevention. The purpose of the current review is to evaluate the specificity and sensitivity of the currently commercially available typhoid fever rapid diagnostic kits (RDTs). Publicly available English databases, such as PubMed and Google Scholar, were used to screen the research papers. We mined a total of 371 research documents, of which 18 articles were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Studies from 10 different developing countries evaluated the diagnostic performance of Typhidot, Typhidot-M, and Tubex. The average sensitivity and specificity were approximately 80%–90% and 65%–78% for Typhidot, 85%–94% and 77%–89% for Typhidot-M, and 94.7% and 80.4% for Tubex. The sensitivity and specificity of these diagnostics varied with the geographical location. In comparison to the widely used Widal test, the observed performance cannot support the exclusive use of a particular RDT. Hence, there is a need to develop affordable, antigen-based RDTs.
Distribution of Cardiovascular Dysautonomia Pattern across Different Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Patil Ashwini Namdeorao , Patil Krishnakant Balasaheb , Prasad Neelam , Dighe Tushar A.
Published: July 2024

Context:

Autonomic dysfunction (AD) brings up cardiovascular morbidity/mortality and has been reported in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Still, the pattern of AD in CKD is elusive.

Aim:

To evaluate the distribution of cardiovascular dysautonomia in CKD.

Material and Methods:

This study was conducted on 33 CKD cases and 30 age and sex matched healthy controls. Five standard autonomic function tests were conducted, namely, heart rate response to Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing, and standing, and BP response to standing and sustained handgrip; based on which the patients were classified as normal, or having early parasympathetic, definite parasympathetic and combined damage. The total autonomic function score was also calculated.

Results:

All cases belonged to CKD stages of 3, 4, and 5; and came up with autonomic failure. The mean total autonomic function score was higher (P < 0.001) in CKD (5.09 ± 2.33) as compared to the control group (0.97 ± 0.24), using the unpaired “t” test. Most of the CKD patients (45.45%) were involved with combined damage. Of the three stages, combined damage struck stage 5 to the maximum extent (63.63%). Sympathetic failure always co occurred with parasympathetic failure.

Conclusion:

Combined autonomic failure is more conspicuous in late CKD, predominantly occurring in stage 5. The disease course may contort the parasympathetic system before the sympathetic system.
Study of Cerebrospinal Fluid C-reactive Protein in Children with Meningitis between 1 Month and 12 Years of Age
Authors: Solunke Vikas , Tellis Jessica
Published: July 2024

Background:

India is a growing nation with few resources and trained workers, especially in terms of outlying infrastructure. As a result, a simple and thorough examination to identify acute bacterial meningitis is required. Regular use of cerebrospinal fluid C-reactive protein (CSF-CRP) in the diagnosis of acute bacterial meningitis may be a quick, accurate, and simple way to diagnose meningitis. As a result, the goal of this study is to examine the specificity, sensitivity, positive and negative predictive values, and diagnostic accuracy of CSF-CRP in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis.

Methodology:

In a tertiary care center’s department of pediatrics, between January 2021 and June 2022, a cross-sectional descriptive observational study was carried out. Patients’ demographic data such as age, gender, clinical profile, CSF-CRP, and outcome were recorded. In the current study, each subject underwent a complete examination and comprehensive history before a provisional diagnosis was provided. As part of the diagnostic process, blood and CSF samples were taken. A quantitative immunoturbidometric method was used to determine the level of CSF-CRP.

Outcome of the Study:

Approximately 130 patients with a history of fever, convulsions, and signs of meningitis were considered, out of which 60 (46.2%) patients were male and 70 (53.8%) patients were female. The majority of cases were found to be positive in the CSF-CRP test, i.e. around 52 (60%), while the distribution based on the CSF culture report showed that 17 cases were positive. The results demonstrated that the CSF-CRP had a sensitivity of 100%, indicating that it correctly identified all positive cases. However, its specificity was 69.02%.

Results:

Notably, 94.2% of pyogenic meningitis cases had positive CSF-CRP results, while viral meningitis cases had no positive results, and tubercular meningitis had a lower 5.8% positive rate. CSF-CRP was also linked to clinical outcomes, with a significantly higher mortality rate of 9.6% in CSF-CRP positive cases.

Conclusion:

For the diagnosis of pyogenic meningitis, the culture and Gram stain of CSF is the gold standard. Thus, the early diagnosis of pyogenic meningitis and CSF-CRP is useful and decreases the economic burden and hospital stay of the patients.
Awareness of Dental Trauma Management among Primary School Teachers of Visnagar: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Questionnaire-based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Bafna Yash , Shah Zeel , Fernandes Shoba , Patel Dharati , Parmar Dimpal , Agrawal Swetal
Published: July 2024

Aims:

The current study assessed school teachers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding emergency dental trauma management in Visnagar, Gujarat.

Settings and Design:

The cross-sectional survey required participants to complete a validated, closed-ended self-administered questionnaire.

Subjects and Methods:

The questionnaire, which consisted of 15 questions, was completed by 326 primary and secondary school teachers. Demographic information, knowledge about the teeth most commonly affected by trauma, emergency care, and attitudes toward storage media, etc. were included. This questionnaire also tested the willingness of teachers to participate in future dental trauma management workshops.

Statistical Analysis Used:

An Excel spreadsheet was used to methodically collect and compile the data, which was then subjected to a statistical analysis using SPSS version 20.0. (Chicago, IL, USA: IBM Company, SPSS Inc.) The descriptive data were percentage-based. The Chi-square test was used to do inferential statistics.

Results:

Among 343, a total of 326 (95.04%) school teachers responded. Forty percentage of teachers possess knowledge regarding the emergency treatment of dental trauma, 47.90% of teachers were aware about pedodontists, and 93% of teachers showed a willingness to participate in training.

Conclusions:

The current survey findings indicate that educational activities should be developed to improve preschool teachers’ awareness of the need to treat traumatized teeth at once.
Repairing the Irredeemable Fragment Reattachment of a Complicated Crown-root Fracture with Fiber Post
Authors: Sunny Greeta , Velmurugan Shruthi , Shenvi Suresh , Doddwad Preeti Kore
Published: July 2024

Coronal fracture of the anterior teeth is a commonly occurring dental trauma often seen in young individuals. Such fractures can be conservatively managed with fragment reattachment procedure when the fragment is available and preserved in correct storage media. Due to advancements in adhesive dentistry, fragment reattachment is a simple, esthetic and fast treatment option. This article reports a case of fragment reattachment of a complicated crown root fracture using fibre post as an intraradicular splint.
A Cadaveric Study on Radial Nerve Risk Zone in the Distal Part of the Arm
Authors: Myageri Maheshwari , Manikya R. , Bhavya B. S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Injury to the radial nerve in the arm is very frequent following fractures of the shaft of the humerus and may also occur during surgery on the arm. These iatrogenic injuries can be prevented by predicting the point at which the nerve penetrates the lateral intermuscular septum during its course from the posterior-to-anterior compartment of the arm.

Aims and Objectives:

Our study aims to find out the point of penetration of the radial nerve in the lateral intermuscular septum (radial nerve risk zone [RNRZ]).

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted on 30 upper limbs of adult formalin-embalmed cadavers during MBBS undergraduate dissection at the department of anatomy. The posterior aspect of the arm was dissected to expose the radial nerve, and measurements of parameters were recorded.

Results:

The mean humeral length was 29.91 ± 2.66 cm. The mean distance from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the point on the lateral intermuscular septum where radial nerve pierces during its course from posterior-to-anterior compartment was 11.42 ± 1.042 cm, r = 0.368, and P < 0.05 which was statistically significant. The mean (standard deviation) humeral length of both left and right side difference was statistically significant with P = 0.009 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

We believe that our study will help orthopedic surgeons to estimate the point of penetration of radial nerve into the lateral intermuscular septum which is the RNRZ. This minimizes the risk of radial nerve damage during the fixation of the fractured shaft of the humerus.
Screening for Psychological Distress among Outpatient Attendees at a Rural Health Center in Goa, India, Using World Health Organization Self-Reporting Questionnaire-20 Scale: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Dessai Bhargav Sawant , Kankonker Manisha , Desai Archana M. , Vaz Frederick Satiro , D’Souza Delia B. , Kulkarni Manojkumar S. , Vadivel Dineshrajan
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Psychological distress has been defined as a state of emotional suffering with predominant symptoms of depression and anxiety. Given the state of poor awareness of psychological morbidities in general population, the associated stigma as well as the lack of training among primary health-care professionals in identifying psychological morbidities has led to poor detection rates. We therefore conducted this study to estimate the psychological distress among outpatient department attendees at a rural health center in Goa, using the World Health Organization Self-Reporting Questionnaire (WHO-SRQ)-20 screening questionnaire and to identify some associated factors.

Methodology:

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural area. Systematic sampling technique was used to include 300 study participants aged 18 years and above. Psychological distress was measured using the 20-point WHO-SRQ. Those identified as having psychological distress were reconfirmed by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) under supervision by a trained psychiatrist. Data were later entered into Google Sheets and analyzed using IBM-SPSS 24.

Results:

Around 7.7% of the participants had psychological distress. Female sex, marital status, education level, type of family, and alcohol use were significantly associated with psychological distress. Confirmation of diagnosis by the HAM-D indicated 21 of the 23 participants identified by WHO-SRQ had definitive psychological distress.

Conclusion:

WHO-SRQ is a simple screening tool which can be routinely used to effectively screen for psychiatric morbidities at primary care level.
Intraoperative Bronchospasm in a Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy Surgery: Not So Poetic!
Authors: Shenoy Sweekar K. , Talapatra Arjun , Eeshwar MV
Published: July 2024

Peroral endoscopic myotomies (POEM) done primarily for treating achalasia cardia patients not responding to medical therapy involve creating a submucosal tunnel, followed by a myotomy and a mucosal incision. Common intraoperative complications of such procedures include subcutaneous emphysema, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum, and hemodynamic instability. This is a case of a 56-year-old 62 kg nil-comorbid female patient diagnosed with achalasia cardia who was taken up for a POEM under general anesthesia. She developed an episode of bronchospasm postinsufflation of the abdomen with carbon dioxide.
A Study to Observe the Impact of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Levels on the Cardiovascular Profile in Elderly Patients Attending a Peripheral Medical College of a Developing Country
Authors: Das Mridul , Mondal Nikhil Chandra , Chaudhuri Arunima , Saldanha Daniel
Published: July 2024

Background:

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, more so in an aging population with mental health issues.

Objectives:

We aimed to study the influence of depression, anxiety, and stress levels on the cardiovascular profile in elderly patients attending a peripheral medical college in West Bengal.

Methodology and Participants:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in a peripheral medical college among 197 elderly participants. The cardiovascular profile was examined and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 scores were estimated.

Results:

One hundred and thirty-four (68%) were male and 63 (32%) were female and male–female participants were age and body mass index (BMI) matched. Males had significantly higher waist/hip ratio, heart rates, systolic blood pressure (BP), and diastolic BP. The female population demonstrated significantly higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), whereas males had higher levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol. One hundred and third-eight (70.1%) had normal electrocardiogram findings, 30 (15.2%) had left axis deviation, 13 (6.6%) had right axis deviation, and 16 (8.2%) had ischemic heart disease. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) score of depression for males was 10.66 ± 6.81 and for females 16.22 ± 7.17 (P < 0.0001). The mean ± SD of the stress score for males was 10.67 ± 6.71 and for females 15.17 ± 6.45 (P < 0.001). BMI, heart rate, triglyceride, VLDL, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol showed a significant positive correlation with depression scores. A significant positive correlation was observed between anxiety scores and waist/hip ratio. Stress scores had significant positive correlations with age, triglyceride, LDL, and VLDL levels and a negative correlation with HDL levels.

Conclusions:

Increased depression anxiety and stress levels were found to worsen the cardiovascular profile among the elderly population and more so among males.
Nonlinear stability of planar viscous shock wave to three-dimensional compressible Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Wang Teng , Wang Yi
Published: July 2024

We prove the nonlinear stability of the planar viscous shock up to a time-dependent shift for the three-dimensional (3D) compressible Navier–Stokes equations under the generic perturbations, in particular, without zero mass conditions. Moreover, the time-dependent shift function keeps the shock profile shape time-asymptotically. Our stability result is unconditional for the weak planar Navier–Stokes shock. Our proof is motivated by the

a

-contraction method (a kind of weighted

L^{2}

-relative entropy method) with time-dependent shift for the stability of viscous shock in the one-dimensional (1D) case. Instead of the classical anti-derivative techniques, we perform the stability analysis of the planar Navier–Stokes shock in the original

H^{2}

-perturbation framework and therefore zero mass conditions are not necessarily needed, which, in turn, brings out the essential difficulties due to the compressibility of viscous shock. Furthermore, compared with 1D case, there are additional difficulties coming from the wave propagations along the multi-dimensional transverse directions and their interactions with the viscous shock. To overcome these difficulties, a multi-dimensional version of the sharp weighted Poincaré inequality,

a

-contraction techniques with time-dependent shift, and some essential physical structures of the multi-dimen­sional Navier–Stokes system are fully used.
Poisson geometry around Poisson submanifolds
Authors: Fernandes Rui Loja , Mărcuţ Ioan
Published: July 2024

We construct a first-order local model for Poisson manifolds around a large class of Poisson submanifolds and give conditions under which this model is a local normal form. The resulting linearization theorem includes as special cases all the known linearization theorems for fixed points and symplectic leaves. The symplectic groupoid version of these results gives a solution to the groupoid coisotropic embedding problem.
A Smale–Barden manifold admitting K-contact but not Sasakian structure
Authors: Muñoz Vicente
Published: July 2024

We give the first example of a simply connected compact

5

-manifold (Smale–Barden manifold) which admits a K-contact structure but does not admit any Sasakian structure, settling a long-standing question of Boyer and Galicki.
High frequency forcing of an attracting heteroclinic cycle
Authors: Labouriau Isabel S. , Rodrigues Alexandre A. P.
Published: July 2024

This article is concerned with the effect of time-periodic forcing on a vector field exhibiting an attracting heteroclinic network. We show that as the forcing frequency tends to infinity, the dynamics reduces to that of a network under constant forcing, the constant being the average value of the forcing term. We also show that under small constant forcing the network breaks up into an attracting periodic solution that persists for periodic forcing of high frequency.
Free extensivity via distributivity
Authors: Lucatelli Nunes Fernando , Prezado Rui , Vákár Matthijs
Published: July 2024

We consider the canonical pseudodistributive law between various free limit completion pseudomonads and the free coproduct completion pseudomonad. When the class of limits includes pullbacks, we show that this consideration leads to notions of extensive categories. More precisely, we show that
extensive categories with pullbacks
and
infinitary lextensive categories
are the pseudoalgebras for the pseudomonads resulting from two of these pseudo­distributive laws. Moreover, we introduce the notion of
doubly-infinitary lextensive category
, and we establish that the freely generated ones are cartesian closed. From this result, we further deduce that, in freely generated infinitary lextensive categories, the objects with a finite number of connected components are exponentiable. We conclude our work with remarks on examples, descent theoretical aspects of this work, results concerning non-canonical isomorphisms, and relationship with other work.
Liouville theorems for a fourth order Hénon equation in the half-space
Authors: Selmi Abdelbaki , Zaidi Cherif
Published: July 2024

We investigate here the nonlinear elliptic Hénon-type equation

\Delta^{2}u= |x|^{a}|u|^{p-1}u \quad \text{in }\mathbb{R}^{n}_{+}, \quad u =\frac{\partial u}{\partial x_{n}}= 0 \quad \text{in }\partial \mathbb{R}^{n}_{+},

where

p>1

,

a\geq 0

and

n\geq 5

. Based on the approach of Hu [J. Differential Equations 256 (2014), 1817–1846], we prove Liouville-type theorems for stable solutions and solutions which are stable outside a compact set possibly unbounded and sign-changing. In contrast with the results of Hu (2014), we apply a new method to provide an implicit existence of the fourth-order Joseph–Lundgren exponent. To classify finite Morse index solutions in the supercritical case, we adopt a new method of monotonicity formula together with blowing down sequence. In addition, a difficulty stems from the fact that applying the doubling lemma leads to the singularity. For this reason, we use a more delicate approach to the interval

(n+4+2a, p_{JL2}(n,0))

. Our analysis uses a combination of some integral estimates, Pohozaev-type identity, and monotonicity formula of solutions.
Role of endoscopic-ultrasound-guided biliary drainage with electrocautery-enhanced lumen-apposing metal stent for palliation of malignant biliary obstruction
Authors: Deliwala Smit S , Qayed Emad
Published: July 2024

In this editorial, we discuss the article by Peng et al in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery , focusing on the evolving role of endoscopic-ultrasound-guided biliary drainage (EUS-BD) with electrocautery lumen apposing metal stent (LAMS) for distal malignant biliary obstruction. Therapeutic endoscopy has rapidly advanced in decompression techniques, with growing evidence of its safety and efficacy surpassing percutaneous and surgical approaches. While endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has been the gold standard for biliary decompression, its failure rate approaches 10.0%, prompting the exploration of alternatives like EUS-BD. This random-effects meta-analysis demonstrated high technical and clinical success of over 90.0% and an adverse event rate of 17.5%, mainly in the form of stent dysfunction. Outcomes based on stent size were not reported but the majority used 6 mm and 8 mm stents. As the body of literature continues to demonstrate the effectiveness of this technique, the challenges of stent dysfunction need to be addressed in future studies. One strategy that has shown promise is placement of double-pigtail stents, only 18% received the prophylactic intervention in this study. We expect this to improve with time as the technique continues to be refined and standardized. The results above establish EUS-BD with LAMS as a reliable alternative after failed ERCP and considering EUS to ERCP upfront in the same session is an effective strategy. Given the promising results, studies must explore the role of EUS-BD as first-line therapy for biliary decompression.
Association of preoperative antiviral treatment with incidences of post-hepatectomy liver failure in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Xiao , Lin Zhao-Yi , Zhou You , Zhong Qin , Li Zong-Ren , Lin Xi-Xiang , Hu Ming-Gen , He Kun-Lun
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is a common consequence of radical partial hepatectomy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

AIMS

To investigate the relationship between preoperative antiviral therapy and PHLF, as well as assess the potential efficacy of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA level in predicting PHLF.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed involving 1301 HCC patients with HBV who underwent radical hepatectomy. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to assess the capacity of HBV DNA to predict PHLF and establish the optimal cutoff value for subsequent analyses. Logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the independent risk factors of PHLF. The increase in the area under the ROC curve, categorical net reclassification improvement (NRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) were used to quantify the efficacy of HBV DNA level for predicting PHLF. The P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Logistic regression analyses showed that preoperative antiviral therapy was independently associated with a reduced risk of PHLF (P < 0.05). HBV DNA level with an optimal cutoff value of 269 IU/mL (P < 0.001) was an independent risk factor of PHLF. All the reference models by adding the variable of HBV DNA level had an improvement in area under the curve, categorical NRI, and IDI, particularly for the fibrosis-4 model, with values of 0.729 (95%CI: 0.705-0.754), 1.382 (95%CI: 1.341-1.423), and 0.112 (95%CI: 0.110-0.114), respectively. All the above findings were statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

In summary, preoperative antiviral treatment can reduce the incidence of PHLF, whereas an increased preoperative HBV DNA level has a correlative relationship with an increased susceptibility to PHLF.
Interaction between the albumin-bilirubin score and nutritional risk index in the prediction of post-hepatectomy liver failure
Authors: Qin Feng-Fei , Deng Feng-Lian , Huang Cui-Ting , Lin Shu-Li , Huang Hui , Nong Jie-Jin , Wei Mei-Juan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) is the most common postoperative complication and the leading cause of death after hepatectomy. The albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) score and nutritional risk index (NRI) have been shown to assess end-stage liver disease and predict PHLF and patient survival. We hypothesized that the ALBI score and NRI interact in the prediction of PHLF.

AIM

To analyze the interaction between the ALBI score and NRI in PHLF in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 186 patients who underwent hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma at the Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities between January 2020 and July 2023. Data on patient characteristics and laboratory indices were collected from their medical records. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to determine the interaction effect between the ALBI score and NRI in PHLF.

RESULTS

Of the 186 patients included in the study, PHLF occurred in 44 (23.66%). After adjusting for confounders, multivariate logistic regression identified ALBI grade 2/3 [odds ratio (OR) = 73.713, 95% confidence interval (CI): 9.175-592.199] and NRI > 97.5 (OR = 58.990, 95%CI: 7.337-474.297) as risk factors for PHLF. No multiplicative interaction was observed between the ALBI score and NRI (OR = 0.357, 95%CI: 0.022-5.889). However, the risk of PHLF in patients with ALBI grade 2/3 and NRI < 97.5 was 101 times greater than that in patients with ALBI grade 1 and NRI ≥ 97.5 (95%CI: 56.445-523.839), indicating a significant additive interaction between the ALBI score and NRI in PHLF.

CONCLUSION

Both the ALBI score and NRI were risk factors for PHLF, and there was an additive interaction between the ALBI score and NRI in PHLF.
Study on the occurrence and influencing factors of gastrointestinal symptoms in hemodialysis patients with uremia
Authors: Yuan Dan , Wang Xiao-Qi , Shao Feng , Zhou Jing-Jing , Li Zhong-Xin
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, and these symptoms seriously affect patients' prognosis.

AIM

To assess the occurrence and factors influencing gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis.

METHODS

We retrospectively selected 98 patients with uremia who underwent regular hemodialysis treatment in the blood purification center of our hospital from December 2022 to December 2023. The gastrointestinal symptoms and scores of each dimension were evaluated using the Gastrointestinal Symptom Grading Scale (GSRS). Patients were divided into gastrointestinal symptoms and no gastrointestinal symptom groups according to whether they had gastrointestinal symptoms. The factors that may affect gastrointestinal symptoms were identified by single-factor analysis. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms.

RESULTS

Gastrointestinal symptoms included indigestion, constipation, reflux, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and eating disorders, and the total average GSRS score was 1.35 ± 0.47. This study showed that age, number of tablets, dialysis time, glucocorticoid, parathyroid hormone (PTH), combined diabetes mellitus and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independent risk factors for gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, whereas body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin (Hb), and urea clearance index were independent protective factors (P < 0.05) .

CONCLUSION

Gastrointestinal symptoms are mostly mild in patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis, most commonly including dyspepsia, eating disorders, and gastroesophageal reflux. The independent influencing factors mainly include the BMI, age, number of pills taken, dialysis time, urea clearance index, Hb, use of glucocorticoids, and thyroid hormone level. PTH, CRP, and diabetes are clinically related factors influencing the occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms, and targeted prevention can be performed.
Impact of frailty on postoperative outcomes after hepatectomy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lv Yao-Jia , Xu Guang-Xing , Lan Jia-Rong
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The impact of frailty on postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing hepatectomy is still unclear.

AIM

To study the influence of frailty on postoperative outcomes, such as mortality, rate of complications, and length of hospitalization, following hepatectomy.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases were searched for observational studies with adult (≥ 18 years) patients after planned/elective hepatectomy. A random-effects model was used for all analyses, and the results are expressed as weighted mean difference (WMD), relative risk (RR), or hazards ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Analysis of the 13 included studies showed a significant association of frailty with elevated risk of in-hospital mortality (RR = 2.76, 95%CI: 2.10-3.64), mortality at 30 d (RR = 4.60, 95%CI: 1.85-11.40), and mortality at 90 d (RR = 2.52, 95%CI: 1.70-3.75) in the postoperative period. Frail patients had a poorer long-term survival (HR = 2.89, 95%CI: 1.84-4.53) and higher incidence of “any” complications (RR = 1.69, 95%CI: 1.40-2.03) and major (grade III or higher on the Clavien-Dindo scale) complications (RR = 2.69, 95%CI: 1.85-3.92). Frailty was correlated with markedly lengthier hospital stay (WMD = 3.65, 95%CI: 1.45-5.85).

CONCLUSION

Frailty correlates with elevated risks of mortality, complications, and prolonged hospitalization, which need to be considered in surgical management. Further research is essential to formulate strategies for improved outcomes in this vulnerable cohort.
Colon signet-ring cell carcinoma with chylous ascites caused by immunosuppressants following liver transplantation: A case report
Authors: Li Ying , Tai Yang , Wu Hao
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Chylous ascites is caused by disruption of the lymphatic system, which is characterized by the accumulation of a turbid fluid containing high levels of triglycerides within the abdominal cavity. The two most common causes are cirrhosis and tuberculosis, and colon signer ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) due to the use of immunosuppressants is extremely rare in cirrhotic patients after liver transplantation, making it prone to misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.

CASE SUMMARY

A 52-year-old man who underwent liver transplantation and was administered with immunosuppressants for 8 months was admitted with a 3-month history of progressive abdominal distention. Initially, based on lymphoscintigraphy and lymphangiography, lymphatic obstruction was considered, and cystellar chyli decompression with band lysis and external membrane stripping of the lymphatic duct was performed. However, his abdominal distention was persistent without resolution. Abdominal paracentesis revealed allogenic cells in the ascites, and immunohistochemistry analysis revealed adenocarcinoma cells with phenotypic features suggestive of a gastrointestinal origin. Gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed, and biopsy showed atypical signet ring cells in the ileocecal valve. The patient eventually died after a three-month follow-up due to progression of the tumor.

CONCLUSION

Colon SRCC, caused by immunosuppressants, is an unusual but un-neglected cause of chylous ascites.
Ứng dụng học máy trong phân tích dữ liệu vào quản lý nguồn nhân lực
Authors: Đạt Nguyễn Phát , Hồ Nguyễn Văn , Phụng Thái Kim
Published: July 2024

Quản lý nguồn nhân lực (Human Resource Management - HRM) đóng vai trò quan trọng trong sự thành công của mỗi doanh nghiệp thông qua việc quản lý hiệu quả lực lượng lao động, từ đó làm nền tảng giúp doanh nghiệp phát triển bền vững. Sự thành công của mỗi doanh nghiệp đều có sự đóng góp của các nhân sự ở mọi cấp bậc. Tuy nhiên, hiện trạng tại một số doanh nghiệp có tỷ lệ nhân viên nghỉ việc nhiều, gây ra những cản trở trong công việc và có thể ảnh hưởng đến hiệu quả kinh doanh. Vì vậy, việc giữ chân nhân sự đóng vai trò quan trọng bởi quản lý tốt sẽ giúp nâng cao hiệu quả hoạt động của doanh nghiệp. Nghiên cứu này xây dựng phân tích dự báo nhân viên nghỉ việc trên tập dữ liệu nhân sự của IBM. Tác giả tiến hành thực nghiệm mô hình máy học để dự
báo nhân viên nghỉ việc qua các thuật toán Logistics Regression, K-Nearest Neighbors, Decision Tree, Support Vector Machine, Neural Network và Random Forest để tìm ra mô hình tối ưu. Thông qua kết quả thực nghiệm, các tổ chức có thể sử dụng những kết quả này để xây dựng chiến lược HRM mang lại nhiều ý nghĩa cho doanh nghiệp.
Adaptive Sports Equipment: A Resource for Clinicians, Coaches, & Athletes
Authors:   , Chown Allison
Published: July 2024

Background: About 61 million adults who live in the United States (US) have a disability, which equates to about one in four adults in the US (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2020). Unfortunately, only one out of every ten people who need assistive technology (AT) have access to the proper equipment, with lack of awareness of the devices being one of the causes (World Health Organization [WHO], 2018). It has been noted in literature that a lack of awareness exists amongst clinicians, coaches, & athletes regarding available adaptive equipment (AE) to support participation in adaptive sports ([AS] Bergem, 2020). Problem/Purpose: A lack of knowledge of adaptive sports equipment amongst clinicians, coaches, and athletes with disabilities is a barrier to participation in AS. The purpose of this capstone project was to create an online resource that describes the types of AE available to enable participation in AS by athletes with disabilities. The Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) Model was used to develop this online resource that considered a range of activities, contexts, and client factors that determine the selection of AE to participate in sports. Methods: This project was developed in partnership with Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), with information compiled from literature searches, internet searches per sport, sifting through books regarding AT, and conversations with CAF leaders and mentors. Information gathered was then used to develop the online resource, which was published as an expansion to CAF’s website. Results: A comprehensive adaptive sports equipment resource was published on CAF’s website that provides information on AE for 18 sports total. Further expansion of the webpage is needed to include AE for additional sports, ensuing improved access to and knowledge of adaptive sports equipment among clinicians, coaches, and athletes with disabilities.
Chemical and bioprotective studies of Xylopia aethiopica seed extract and molecular docking of doconexent and cryptopinone as the prominent compounds
Authors: Igwe Okenwa Uchenna , Oru Cletus Christian , Otuokere Ifeanyi Edozie
Published: July 2024

Fourteen phytochemical compounds were identified in the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis of the petroleum ether extract of the seeds of Xylopia aethiopica. The compounds comprised of terpenoids (56.027 %), unsaturated fatty acids (30.081 %), alcohol (9.385 %) and saturated fatty acid (4.507 %). The extract showed high antioxidant activity in a dose dependent pattern at a minimum and maximum concentrations of 25 and 400 μg/ml respectively and could be compared with that of ascorbic acid used as a standard antioxidant agent. The antibacterial activity screening of the extract against five pathogenic bacteria organisms indicated that the extract possessed more antibacterial activity than gentamicin used as a standard antibacterial agent. The trend of activity was Klebsiella pneumoniae (gram-negative) > Shigella flexneri (gram-negative) > Staphylococcus epidermidis (gram-positive) > Escherichia coli (gram-negative) > Streptococcus pneumoniae (gram-positive). The presence of high amount of terpenoids in the extract of X. aethiopica could be the reason for the high antioxidant and antibacterial activities shown by the extract and also suggests why the seed extract of the plant is used in herbal medicine for the treatment of diseases and infections. All of the test compounds had negative binding affinities, according to molecular docking modelling, indicating that the compounds had been successfully docked to the receptors. The compounds showed good pharmacokinetic properties, such as high blood-brain barrier absorption, oral bioavailability, and water solubility, in the in-silico ADME and drug-likeness predictions. The findings of this study significantly increase the relevance of these compounds as promising first targets for the treatment of drug resistant bacteria. This may help pharmacologists and other medicinal chemists create and synthesize even more potent drug candidates.
Global Economy: Evolution, Transformations, Challenges
Authors: Kulishov Volodymyr ,   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman, Mietule Iveta , Khamidov Obidjon , Shaikan Andrii , Botelho José ,   Latvijas Universitāte, Rezekne Academy of Technologies,   Kyiv National Economic University named after Vadym Hetman,   Universidade Nova de Lisboa
Published: July 2024

This textbook lays out the fundamental theoretical issues, categories, and problems of the evolution, transformation, and modern challenges of the global economy. It discusses tendencies in the development of world economic relations, forms of international cooperation, and the formation and functioning of regional integration unions under the conditions of globalization (“slowbalization”). The textbook is consistent in structure with the program of the course “Global Economy” taught to students of economic specialities. It is intended for lecturers, students and post-doctoral students in the field of economics.
The Development of Project-Based Learning Models That Accommodate the Reflective and Impulsive Cognitive Style
Authors: Cintamulya Imas , Warli  , Mawartiningsih Lilik
Published: July 2024

Ideally, a teacher must choose a learning model, approach, method, or technique that suits the student's learning style. This research describes the design of a project-based learning (PjBL) model that accommodates reflective and impulsive cognitive styles. For this reason, development research was carried out using the Plomp model. To determine the quality of the results of PjBL development that accommodates reflective and impulsive cognitive styles, validity, practicality, and effectiveness tests were carried out. Based on the results of the validity test analysis, it was concluded that content validity was very good, while construct validity was good. The results of the practicality test concluded that the syntax and social system were declared good, while the reaction and management principles were declared very good. For the effectiveness test results, it was concluded that teacher and student activities were good, learning management abilities were stated to be very good, student responses to learning components and processes were stated to be good, and learning outcome tests were also good. Overall, it can be concluded that the PjBL model, which accommodates reflective and impulsive cognitive styles, is good and suitable for use. The research results imply that this model can be used as a choice for teachers in learning.
Multi-Causal Predictors of Academic Performance Among Senior Secondary School Students: Peer Influence, Social Network Use, and Gender
Authors: Adewuyi Habeeb Omoponle
Published: July 2024

The study investigated the causal relationship between peer influence, social network usage, gender, and academic performance of senior secondary school students. A descriptive survey research design was used for the study. Both the independent and dependent variables were measured with standardized instruments, which included peer influence factor scale (α = .81), social network questionnaire (α = .78) and student achievement scale (α = .83). The result showed that academic performance has a significant relationship with all the independent variables when put together, with the value of R adjusted = .626 and R2 adjusted = .386; the analysis of variance yielded an F ratio value of 63.62 at 0.05 significant level. In terms of the magnitude of contributions, peer influence made the most with (beta = .554, t = 11.772, p<0.05) followed by social network usage (beta = .168, t = 3.562, p<0.05), while gender had no significant contribution (beta = -.094, t = -2.064, p>0.05). Therefore, it is advised that parents, guardians, and other interested parties be made aware of the consequences of uncultured use of social media among peers and that students be encouraged to make effective and efficient use of their time, especially their free time.
Techniques and a Model for the Incorporation of Indigenous Knowledge Systems Into the Natural Science Curriculum in Schools
Authors: Madlela Benkosi
Published: July 2024

The study explored the techniques and a model that could be used to incorporate Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into the Natural Science (NS) curriculum. An interpretivist research philosophy and a qualitative research approach guided the collection of in-depth data from participants in their natural settings in schools. Data was collected from Headmasters through face-to-face interviews using an interview guide, and from NS Heads of Departments (HODs) and NS teachers through a focus group discussion guide. In each of the five selected schools in Pongola, three NS teachers, one Headmaster and one NS HOD participated in the study. This gave a total of twenty-five participants. Findings revealed that though NS Curriculum and Policy Statements (CAPS) 2012 curriculum documents instructs teachers to use IKS in class, these documents do not state which IKS content should be taught. Discretion is left to individual teachers. This poses challenges to teachers as IKS differ across different cultures in the country, and schools did not have IKS study material for teachers and learners. The study recommended that the Department of Basic Education should review its policy and clearly state the content of IKS that should be taught in NS, broaden the scope of parental involvement to include participation in IKS topics and activities, develop a standardised IKS knowledge strand, involve researchers and publishers to produce IKS study material, and adopt the Madlela model as a guiding Framework to incorporate IKS into the NS curriculum as a full knowledge strand.
Teachers’ Perceptions on Assessment for Learning in Geography: An Exploratory Approach
Authors: Lebona Retselisitsoe , Ayanwale Musa Adekunle
Published: July 2024

Assessment for Learning (AfL) plays a crucial role in the effective teaching and learning of Geography, offering educators a means to enhance student achievement. Through ongoing evaluations involving verbal and written exercises, AfL not only readies students for summative Assessment of Learning (AoL) but also supports them in grasping complex Geography concepts, features, and processes, as evidenced by examination performance. Over the last five years, as indicated by the Examinations Council of Lesotho, persistent challenges have emerged in this regard, potentially stemming from inadequacies in assessment strategies. This study delves into the perceptions of Geography teachers concerning Assessment for Learning. Employing a qualitative approach, the research utilizes non-participatory observations and in-depth interviews to collect data. The study is grounded in Gregory's Theory of Perception and Keeping Learning on Track Theory of Action, offering theoretical frameworks for analysis. The findings reveal that teachers face obstacles when implementing Assessment for Learning, including time constraints and issues related to classroom overcrowding. Notably, a significant insight is the lack of both Assessment knowledge and Pedagogical Content Knowledge among teachers. As a resolution, it is recommended that comprehensive assessment training be provided for both pre-service and in-service teachers, addressing these identified gaps.
Gaining Teachers' Insights: School Library Access and Its Significance on Science and Mathematics Education
Authors: Mdodana-Zide Lulama
Published: July 2024

Access to libraries significantly enhances Science and Mathematics education, offering diverse pathways for learners to engage with concepts using media and digital literacy skills. However, the contribution of school libraries to these subjects remains unexplored despite attention to learners and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education. This study examined insights from Science and Mathematics teachers regarding the role of library resources, such as books, research materials, and interactive tools, in supporting students' comprehension, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in these subjects. Employing a qualitative approach within an interpretive paradigm, the research used a multiple-case study design. Data collection involved questionnaires administered to 12 teachers from six purposefully selected schools. Findings indicated that school library access positively impacts student engagement in Science and Mathematics education as resources facilitate better understanding and application of concepts, encourage independent exploration, nurture inquiry-based learning, act as bridges in the integration of subjects, mitigate resource disparities, and provide teacher professional development. The study concludes by not only advocating a heightened prominence on library access in schools but also positions the teachers as key elements in channeling learners toward the use of these invaluable informative hubs to shape the landscape of Science and Mathematics education. Thus, the study opens the door for a paradigm shift toward the optimization of library access for all learners to harness the unrealized potential within the pages and digital interfaces of school libraries by illuminating the transformational significance of libraries in Science and Mathematics.