bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hoffa’s fat pad, Hoffa’s disease, Hoffa’s fracture: the history of eponyms
Authors: Zolotov Aleksandr S. , Zinkova Ekaterina A. , Atoian Varsik A.
Published: November 2023

Albert Hoffas is associated with three popular eponymous terms: the infrapatellar fat pad (Hoffas fat pad), the pathology of this anatomical development (Hoffas disease), and a frontal fracture of the lateral condyle of the femur (Hoffas fracture). Issues of priority about the mentioned eponyms continue to be debated. The authors searched for information in domestic and foreign publications, traumatology and orthopedics manuals, periodicals, and Internet resources Scopus, WoS, Google Scholar, and eLibrary to collect reliable data on the history of the emergence of the eponyms Hoffs fatty body, Hoffs disease, Hoffs fracture and to determine the role of the German orthopedist and his priority in the origin of these copyright names. Professor John Goodsirs paper in 1855 contains one of the earliest mentions of the infrapatellar fat pad but without revealing the anatomy and morphology of the structure itself. In 1904, Albert Hoffa published an article describing fully the syntopic and macroscopic anatomy of the infrapatellar fat pad and the disease associated with infrapatellar fat pad pathology. A German physician, Friedrich Busch, first described the frontal fracture of the lateral condyle of the femur in 1869. A similar was described by Albert Hoffa in the first edition of the Textbook of Fractures and Dislocations for Doctors and Students in 1888. Albert Hoffas priority in describing the infrapatellar fat pad and its pathology is recognized by representatives of various medical specialties. As for the frontal fracture of the lateral condyle of the femur, Albert Hoffa may only be considered a co-author of the frontal fracture of the lateral condyle of the femur.
Multipath Transfer-Function Correction Method to Predict Site-Specific Amplification at City Scale
Authors: Hallo Miroslav , Bergamo Paolo , Fäh Donat
Published: November 2023

The site-specific amplification of seismic waves is an essential component of local seismic hazard assessment. It can be evaluated from empirical data, but measurements are feasible just in a limited number of locations. Hence, at the city scale, there is a need for the theoretical prediction and interpolation of the amplification. In this article, we introduce a physics-based method to predict the site-specific amplification and duration in a broad frequency range. The method is based on a novel energy-based concept of the multipath propagation of waves in viscoelastic media with random heterogeneities. The amplification is expressed by the surface-outcrop transfer function of the multipath wave propagation, which is defined by expected values of the energy spectral ratio. The method is applied to the near-surface 2D velocity model in the city of Zürich in Switzerland. The predicted amplification is validated by empirical data at a nearby seismic station, and it is compared with the soil class and other site-condition proxies. Finally, the method performance is demonstrated by the prediction of site-specific seismic waveforms and response spectra for the 2022 ML 4.7 Mulhouse earthquake.
Erythrasma: A Superficial Cutaneous Bacterial Infection Overlooked in Clinical Practice
Authors: Rajkumar Venkatraman ,   Banting Clinic, Chennai, Tamil Nadu State, India
Published: November 2023

Erythrasma is a common superficial cutaneous bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum, a normal inhabitant of the skin surface. Under favourable conditions, the organism invades the stratum corneum, where it multiplies and produces clinically evident lesions. Increasing age, excessive sweating, diabetes mellitus, obesity, overcrowding and immunosuppression, including HIV, are risk factors for the disease. The condition can be confused with other infectious and non-infectious skin diseases, chiefly dermatophytosis. Erythrasma clinically presents in the groin, axilla, submammary, inguinal, intergluteal cleft and web spaces between the toes. Coinfection with fungi and superinfection upon primary dermatosis are common. Erythrasma can be diagnosed with a characteristic coral-pink fluorescence with Wood‘s lamp examination. Smears, biopsy and cultures are seldom required but are useful when the Wood‘s lamp test is negative. Atypical presentations do occur and require astute clinical judgment. This condition should be distinguished from other dermatosis as treatment is different. Treatment is with topical or oral antimicrobials, depending on the site and extent of the lesions. Recurrence can occur, and methods to prevent it should be in place. Novel treatments need robust testing prior to inclusion in the therapeutic armamentarium.
Psychedelics and treatment of mental disorders: A survey of attitudes and knowledge among psychiatrists, general practitioners and psychologists in Iceland
Authors:   Faculty of Psychology, University of Iceland, Ólafsson Ragnar P , Kvaran Karól ,   Faculty of Psychology, University of Iceland, Ketilsdóttir Kristín ,   Faculty of Psychology, University of Iceland, Hallgrímsdóttir Kolbrún ,   Faculty of Psychology, University of Iceland, Sigurðsson Emil L ,   Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Development Centre for Primary Healthcare in Iceland, Sigurðsson Engilbert ,   Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Landspitali University Hospital, Mental Health Services, Reykjavík
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTION: Interest in the use of psychedelics has increased following reports of their possible therapeutic potential. However, little is known about the knowledge of and attitudes towards the substances among health care professional who provide treatment for mental disorders in Iceland. An online survey was therefore conducted among members of the Icelandic associations of psychiatrists, general practitioners and psychologists. METHODS: Respondents were 256 in total, including 177 psychologists, 38 psychiatrists and 41 general practitioners that provided information on their background, type of work, knowledge of and attitude towards different types of psychedelic substances and their views on optimal service delivery if psychedelics were approved by licencing authorities and used for treatment. RESULTS: Around half of psychiatrists reported having received questions about treatment with psychedelics in their clinical work, compared to only 14,6% of general practitioners and 17,5% of psychologists. The majority of respondents had little, or no knowledge of the substances targeted in the survey. A majority also expressed negative attitudes towards treatment with psilocybin mushrooms, but was positive towards ongoing scientific research and felt that such a treatment should be prescribed and provided by psychiatrists. Moreover, the majority view was that psilocybin treatment should be provided in specialised clinics or psychiatric units in a hospital setting. Scientific articles on the topic, discussions with colleagues and information in the media were identified as having had most influence on respondents´ attitudes towards psychedelics. Most respondents were interested in further education on psychedelics. CONCLUSIONS: Respondents among these three professions felt that the time has not yet come to use psychedelics in the treatment of mental disorders in Iceland but thought more education on psychedelics, their potential efficacy and adverse health effects is important given the increased interest in psychedelics.
Stakeholder opinions about cancelling exams in Norwegian upper secondary school during the pandemic, and its consequences—an illuminative study
Authors: Gamlem Siv M. , Smith Kari , Sandvik Lise V.
Published: November 2023

Most central examinations in upper secondary school were cancelled by the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training (NDET) in 2020–22 due to COVID-19. Teacher assessment became the sole final assessment. An illuminative study was conducted to get perceptions of 12 informants representing policy makers, university leaders, teachers, principals, teacher unions, and a student union about central exam cancellation. This study finds that cancellation of central exams is perceived to have both positive and negative consequences on the educational system. The informants argue that students’ stress and anxiety levels concerning central exams were reduced, and students had more time to work with the curriculum. Credibility of students’ final assessment has been challenged and, moreover, sole teacher assessment has created a more favourable basis for admission to higher education due to an increase in average grade points in competition with non-COVID-19 cohorts. The lack of examiner training reduced teachers’ opportunities to strengthen their assessment literacy, since central exams seem to be a key to develop final assessment literacy.
Metrics Profiles of Melanomacrophages Centre on the Spleen of Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Exposed to Mercury Chloride
Authors: Tasyarrafa Naf’a Solakhiyah  , Wahju Tjahjaningsih  , Laksmi Sulmartiwi
Published: November 2023

Increasing the number of heavy metals in the aquatic environment results in the accumulation of contaminants in fish body tissue, making fish an ideal bio-indicator of environmental pollution. The spleen included in the hematopoietic tissue contains macrophages. Macrophages form aggregates that contain pigments referred to melanomacrophage centres (MMCs). This research aims to analyse the metric profiles of MMCs on the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) spleen as a non-specific cellular immune response against mercury chloride exposure. This study used a Completely Randomized Design method with four treatments at different concentrations of mercury chloride (HgCl2) of 0 mg.l-1 , 0.01 mg.l-1 , 0.05 mg.l-1 , and 0.1 mg.l-1 . Each treatment was replicated five times. Data on the number and size of MMCs were analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and continued by using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) to determine the differences between treatments. The result showed that the concentration of mercury chloride in water affects the metrics profile of spleen MMCs of carp. The number and size of MMCs of carp spleen increased at the concentration of 0.01 mg.l-1 and 0.05 mg.l-1 but decreased at the level of 0.1 mg.l-1 . The results suggest that the profile of MMCs as a non-specific cellular immune response can function as bio-indicators of environmental pollution.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ МАРКЕТИНГУ ВЗАЄМОВІДНОСИН НА РИНКУ ІТ-АУТСОРСИНГУ У ВОЄННИЙ ЧАС
Authors: Виноградова О.В. , Совершенна І.О. , Єсмаханова А.У.
Published: November 2023

В статті показана актуальність розгляду проблеми маркетингу взаємодії на ринку ІТ-аутсорсингу у воєнний період. Показане місце української ІТ-індустрії в світових рейтингах. Розглянуто поняття аутсорсингу, визначено основні види його послуг. Надано визначення дефініції «ІТ-аутсорсинг» (інструмент оптимізації досягнення цілей підприємства шляхом передачі зовнішнім спеціалізованим компаніям непрофільних завдань, пов'язаних із наданням послуг у сфері цифрових технологій). Систематизовано основні асортиментні позиції послуг ринку ІТ-аутсорсингу. Виділено групи чинників мікросередовища та макросередовища, які визначають характер взаємовідносин на ринку ІТ-аутсорсингу. До мікро-чинників віднесено особливості діяльності суб'єктів ринку, з якими компанія, яка надає послуги ІТ-аутсорсингу, перебуває у безпосередній взаємодії (клієнти, постачальники, конкуренти, контактні аудиторії, посередники, банки, засоби інформації тощо). Здійснено аналіз впливу найбільш вагомих на даний час чинників макросередовища на особливості маркетингу взаємовідносин на ринку ІТ-аутсорсингу: воєнний стан в Україні, демографічні чинники, економічний стан, науково-дослідний прогрес - дослідження та розробки в галузі інформаційних технологій, правова ситуація в країні (проблеми комплаєнс-контролю та етичного ведення бізнесу), валютне регулювання та обмеження НБУ. Доведено дуальний вплив кризових явищ, пов’язаних з війною на економічні чинники взаємовідносин на ринку ІТ-аутсорсингу: з одного боку, вплив війни безпосередньо на IT-галузь, а з іншого– наслідки війни для споживачів послуг ІТ-аутсорсингу. Запропоновано основні напрямки вдосконалення маркетингу взаємовідносин на ринку IT-аутсорсингу під час військової агресії росії та на період відновлення України після перемоги: розвиток та підтримка лідерських навичок разом із активним залученням корпоративної культури; удосконалення якісної комплексної ІТ-інфраструктури, спроможної забезпечити цілодобовий режим роботи бізнес-процесів; підтримка спільних досліджень та розробок в ІТ-сфері; удосконалення нормативно-правової бази; перейняття найкращого світового досвіду; антикризові заходи щодо покращення стабільності ІТ-компаній; підтримка ІТ-стартапів; впровадження еРезидентства; вдосконалення кадрової ІТ- політики.
РОЛЬ ЦИФРОВИХ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЙ БІЗНЕС-ПРОЦЕСІВ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ
Authors: Кравченко М.О. , Салабай В.О.
Published: November 2023

У статті розглянуто, що у сучасних умовах цифрова трансформація є ключовим фактором для успішного розвитку бізнесу. Одним із важливих аспектів такої трансформації є удосконалення бізнес-процесів з метою забезпечення більш ефективної та оптимізованої роботи компаній. Тому дану статтю присвячено дослідженню значення цифрової трансформації та аналізу впливу управління бізнес-процесами на діяльність підприємства. Розглянуто роль цифрових трансформацій бізнес-процесів підприємств в умовах сучасного економічного середовища. Визначено, що діджиталізація є сучасним етапом розвитку цифрового суспільства, в якому переважають цифрові технології, які реалізуються через застосування технічних засобів та програмних рішень. Розглянуто зміст реінжинірингу бізнес-процесів. Описано основні складові та етапи, а також переваги та недоліки реінжинірингу бізнес-процесів. Визначено основні проблеми та перешкоди, які виникають у процесі цифрової трансформації, а також описано основні переваги використання цифрових технологій у бізнесі. Доведено, що успішне впровадження процесу цифрової трансформації може покращити ефективність компанії, зменшити витрати та забезпечити конкурентоспроможність на ринку.
Narratividad y nuevas tecnologías como métodos de innovación docente en las ciencias jurídicas.
Authors: López de Lerma Galán Jesús
Published: November 2023

Las ciencias jurídicas se encuentran en un proceso de adaptación,introduciendo nuevas metodologías docentes que ayudan a proyectar elconocimiento de una manera más universal. La revolución digital ha supuesto unatransformación en la Educación Superior, desarrollando novedosos enfoques quepromueven el fortalecimiento de las competencias del profesorado. Estainvestigación se centra en el estudio de las técnicas narrativas, adaptadas al entornodigital, explicando cómo las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC)influyen en los modernos sistemas de innovación docente y en los estudios deDerecho.
Spatial and Temporal Evolution Patterns of Construction Waste Generation and Influencing Factors - China Case Study
Authors: Luo Zhenhua , Song Shubin , Pan Haize , Li Mingyang
Published: November 2023

The issue of construction waste reduction has become a global focus, and analyzing the spatial and temporal distribution pattern of construction waste production and the influencing factors is of great significance for different regions to adopt scientific and effective reduction measures according to their own development characteristics. In this paper, panel data of 31 provinces in China are selected from 2013 to 2021 to present the spatial and temporal evolution pattern of construction waste production, and the spatial lag model (SLM) is used to analyze the influencing factors and effects of construction waste production from the perspective of economic and social development. It aims to explore the optimization measures and promotion strategies for construction waste reduction, and to provide reference and assistance for the global construction waste reduction cause. The study shows that China's construction waste production is mainly clustered in the eastern coastal area, with obvious spatial autocorrelation, and the clustering effect shows a trend of rising and then falling, with the peak point appearing in 2018. In terms of the influence effect, the demographic and affluence factors have a more obvious impact on construction waste production than the technological factors. There is a clear spatial spillover effect in the influence of all three aspects on construction waste production, in which urbanization, the scale of the construction industry, the per capita consumption level, the population size and the gross domestic product per capita are the main reasons for the spatial aggregation of construction waste production. Among the construction waste reduction strategies, in addition to the improvement of labor efficiency, the level of technological application, and the requirements of building codes, other strategies need to be considered according to the characteristics and current situation of the socio-economic development of each region. This study is an important reference for countries to analyze the situation of construction waste production and adopt reasonable reduction strategies.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Intravenous Immunoglobulin for Autoimmune Postural Tachycardia Syndrome (iSTAND)
Authors: Vernino Steven , Hopkins Steve , Bryarly Meredith , Hernandez Roberto S. , Salter Amber
Published: November 2023

Objective: Assess response to intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in presumed autoimmune postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
Background: POTS predominantly affects young women and may be associated with systemic autoimmune disorders, serum autoantibodies or recent infection. Uncontrolled case studies suggest that IVIG is beneficial for treating autoimmune POTS. However, no previous randomized controlled trials have been conducted.
Methods: This single site randomized controlled clinical trial compared IVIG to intravenous albumin infusions. Albumin comparator ensured blinding and control for effects of volume expansion. Eligible POTS patients had COMPASS-31 score ≥ 40 and met pre-determined criteria suggesting autoimmunity. Over 12 weeks, participants received 8 infusions (0.4gm/kg each). Four infusions were given weekly followed by four infusions every other week. Primary outcome measure was improvement in COMPASS-31 two weeks after final infusion.
Results: 50 participants consented; 30 met inclusion criteria and received study drug (16 IVIG and 14 albumin; 29 female). Group baseline characteristics were well matched. 27 participants completed treatment protocol. Change in COMPASS-31 did not differ between groups (median change [IQR]; IVIG: -5.5 [-23.3, 2.5] vs. Albumin: -10.6 [-14.1, -4.7]; p-value = 0.629). Response rate was also not different between groups. Adverse events were common but usually mild and did not differ between treatment groups.
Conclusions: This first randomized controlled trial of IVIG in POTS found no difference in symptom response compared to albumin infusion. Both groups showed improvement possibly related to volume expansion obscuring other benefits. Future clinical trials may benefit from the use of POTS-specific clinical outcome measures sensitive to symptoms other than orthostatic intolerance.
Fractal Analysis of Mandible in Panoramic Radiographs of Patients Received Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Tepe Rabia Duman , Toraman Kubra Ozkaya , Kayhan Kivanc Bektas , Ozcan Ilknur , Karabas Hulya Cakir
Published: November 2023

Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of radiotherapy on mandibular cortical and trabecular bone internal structure complexity and to determine the recovery time to healthy values after radiotherapy.
Materials and Methods
In this study, panoramic radiographs obtained before and after radiotherapy of patients who received radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma were evaluated. According to the duration of the radiography after radiotherapy, four groups were formed 0–6 months, 6–12 months, 12–24 months, and 24–36 months. A total of 61 cases and 122 radiographs were evaluated. On each radiograph, fractal analysis (FA) was performed on four bilateral regions (ROIs) selected from trabecular and cortical bone. In addition, inferior alveolar canal width (IACW) and mandibular cortical width (MCW) measurements were also performed. Also, the mean and maximum dose values that the mandible was exposed to as a result of radiotherapy were measured and the relationship of these dose values with the changes in FD, IACW, and MCW values was evaluated.
Results
FD values of ROI-1, ROI-2, and ROI-3 selected over trabecular bone were statistically significantly decreased in all groups. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the four groups. In ROI-4 selected from cortical bone, a statistically significant decrease was observed in FD values, except for the 0–6 month group. The amount of FD decrease was higher in the 12–24 and 24–36 month groups compared to the 0–6 month group. MCW and IACW values were found to be statistically significantly lower in all groups after radiotherapy, and this decrease was similar between the groups.
Conclusions
Internal complexity of trabecular and cortical bone structure decreases in mandible exposed to radiotherapy. The risk of osteoradionecrosis continues even in the 3rd year after radiotherapy, so it would be useful to approach interventional procedures on bone carefully.
Clinical Relevance:
The FA method in ORN risk assessment is a non-invasive, easy-to-apply and low-cost method.
Effectiveness of Self-Directed Learning in Undergraduate Medical Education: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Aulakh Jasmine , Wahab Hana , Richards Christine , Ramdass Prakash V. A.K.
Published: November 2023

Background
Self-Directed Learning (SDL) is a theory of andragogy in which adult learners take their own initiative to identify and tailor their individual learning process and outcomes. In undergraduate medical education, SDL aims to develop medical students into lifelong learners. This study aims to estimate the overall effectiveness of self-directed learning compared to traditional didactic learning.
Methods
We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA statement. A systematic search was used across PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar to identify peer-reviewed articles spanning from inception through September 2023. Key words used were “self-directed learning” AND “undergraduate medical education.” Forest plots were generated with the Open Meta-analyst Software, comparing SDL and traditional didactic learning (TDL).
Results
A total of 509 articles were screened for eligibility, of which 95 articles met the eligibility criteria for full-text review. Following a more detailed screening, 7 articles met the inclusion criteria for the systematic review and 9 articles for the meta-analysis. The systematic review analyzed 2,772 students while the meta-analysis included 1,317 students. The pooled analysis for all studies demonstrates that SDL had a mean score of 1.91 [95% CI (0.75–3.06)] higher than TDL.
Conclusions
Self-directed learning is an effective learning strategy in medical undergraduate education and has the potential to aid in students’ learning and improve their cognitive performance.
‘Life became harder with COVID-19’: Impacts of COVID-19 on youth living in eThekwini district, South Africa, a qualitative analysis of responses to an online survey
Authors: Closson Kalysha , Dong Erica , Zulu Bongiwe , Dietrich Janan J. , Zharima Campion , Jesson Julie , Pakhomova Tatiana , Beksinska Mags , Kaida Angela
Published: November 2023

Background
In South Africa, pervasive age and gender inequities have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and public health response. We aimed to explore the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth in eThekwini, South Africa.
Methods
Between December 2021-May 2022 we explored the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth aged 16–24 residing in eThekwini, South Africa using open-ended responses to an online survey focused on understanding multi-levelled health and social impacts of the pandemic. Inductive coding summarized open-ended responses to the question “Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you in any other way you want to tell us about?” overall and by gender.
Results
Of 2,068 respondents, 256 (12.4%, median age = 22, 62.1% women or non-binary) completed the open-ended survey question (11% in isiZulu). Results were organized into three main themes encompassing 1) COVID-19-related overwhelming loss, fear, grief, and exacerbated mental and physical health concerns; 2) COVID-19-related intensified hardships, which contributed to financial, employment, food, educational, and relationship insecurities for individuals and households; and 3) positive impacts of the pandemic response, including the benefits of government policies and silver linings to government restrictions. South African youth experienced significant grief and multiple losses (e.g., death, income, job, and educational) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusions
We found that South African youth experienced significant grief and multiple losses (e.g., death, income, job, and educational) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Trauma-aware interventions that provide economic and educational opportunities must be included in post-COVID recovery efforts.
Toxicity of orange and neem oils at each stage of development of the coffee leaf miner, Leucoptera coffeella (Lepidoptera: Lynetiidae), and their side effects on predator Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Lima Vinícius de Oliveira , Braghini Agda , Paula Fabrícia Cristina , Souza Jonas Mendes Rodrigues , Figueiredo Gustavo Pincerato , Vacari Alessandra Marieli
Published: November 2023

Despite chemical control remaining the predominant strategy for pest management, the utilization of sustainable control tactics has been growing as a crucial approach to mitigate environmental impact and ensure safe food production. However, such strategies have seen limited exploration in the agricultural realm, particularly within intensive coffee cultivation. In this context, the application of botanical insecticides, such as orange and neem oils, exhibiting insecticidal activity against various lepidopteran pests, holds promise as efficient and effective control measures. The objective of this research was to investigate the efficacy of botanical insecticides based on orange oil and neem oil for managing Leucoptera coffeella (Lepidoptera: Lyonetiidae) infestations, while additionally assessing the side effects of these insecticides on predator Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), commonly found in coffee cultivation areas. To achieve this, we examined the impact of botanical insecticides on eggs, larvae, pupae, and adults of L. coffeella, as well as on eggs and larvae in the first, second, and third instars of C. externa. The results obtained from this research indicate that the application of botanical insecticides based on orange oil and neem oil led to a significant reduction in the hatching of coffee leaf miner larvae (75.0-97.6%). Furthermore, when applied to larvae of its predator, C. externa, these insecticides demonstrated compatibility with the survival of the natural enemy. Both neem oil and orange oil exhibited the ability to prevent larvae from hatching from L. coffeela eggs when applied to adults. In light of these findings, it is evident that botanical insecticides formulated from orange oil and neem oil could serve as viable alternatives for the sustainable management of the coffee leaf miner, a significant pest in coffee cultivation.
Madagascar In-Country Evaluation for Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pan and Bioline™ Malaria Ag
Authors: Rakotoarisoa MA , Rakotomanga TA , Fenomanana J , MUSANGO Laurent , Raobela Oméga , Salava J , Andrianarivelo AM , Kialozafy Maximilienne , Rakotondradriana Antsa , Razanatsila Armel , Rabarisoa Hajalalaina , Rakotosaona Rianasoambolanoro , Ratsimbasoa Arsene
Published: November 2023

Background: Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Madagascar. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends confirming the presence of parasites through parasitological methods before initiating malaria treatment. Microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are primary diagnostic methods. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of two RDTs: Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pan and Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pv by comparing them to microscopic diagnosis, with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) serving as the designated reference standard.
Methods:
Madagascar-based, from two malaria-endemic districts: Ifanadiana and Mandoto , prospective, diagnostic performance study. Included: anyone, symptomatic and symptomatic, between 3 - 81 years from local primary schools and health canters between 05/2023 and 07/2023. Excluded: patients with severe malaria. Diagnosis: Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pan and Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pv RDTs and PCR.
Results:
The kappa species index was computed using 442 PCR-confirmed positive samples. The sensitivity for P. falciparum detection was 98% (95% CI: 96-99) with Pf/Pan RDTs, yielding a kappa species index of 0.9. Similarly, the sensitivity for P. falciparum detection was 97% (95% CI: 95-99) with Pf/Pv RDTs, accompanied by a kappa species index of 0.9. Pf/PvRDTs demonstrated a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 99-100) for P. vivaxdetection, with a kappa species index of 1, indicating strong agreement. Pf/Pan RDTs identified a proportion of 36% of mixed infections.
Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the need for careful consideration of the appropriate use of RDTs based on local epidemiology and clinical context. both Ag Pf/Pan and Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/Pv RDTs could be used at the peripheral levels where Microscopy and PCR are not possible (CSB1 and CSB 2) and using them according to their availability. At the district level, we could initiate an assessment of geographical cartography which will guide the policy of the use of Ag Pf/Pan and Bioline™ Malaria Ag Pf/PvRDTs according to Plasmodium species identified in different districts.
Trial registration: This study is part of the monitoring of quality control of Rapid Diagnostic Test at the National Malaria control Program (NMCP). The clear consent from participating was systematically collected.
Strontium attenuates LPS-induced inflammation via TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway in bovine ruminal epithelial cells
Authors: Tan Panpan , Yang Jiaqi , Yi Fanxuan , Mei Linshan , Wang Yazhou , Zhao Chenxu , Zhao Baoyu , Wang Jianguo
Published: November 2023

Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is a common nutritional metabolic disease in ruminants that causes significant economic losses to dairy farming. Strontium (Sr) is known to be involved in bone metabolism and exhibits potent anti-inflammatory effects. To evaluate the effect of Sr on LPS-induced inflammation in bovine ruminal epithelial cells, a model of LPS-induced inflammation was established in this study, and the cell viability of bovine ruminal epithelial cells was measured using CCK-8. The production of pro-inflammatory cytokines was measured by ELISA and real-time PCR, respectively. The related protein of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway was assayed through Western blotting, the fluorescence of p-p65 and p-IκB were assayed by immunofluorescence. Molecular docking of Sr and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway-related proteins was performed using MIB2 (http://bioinfo.cmu.edu.tw/MIB2/). Results showed that after treatment for 24 h, the cell viability was decreased at the high concentration of Sr (≥ 10 mmol/L). Sr significantly decreased the production of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, down-regulated the related protein expression of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, reduced the fluorescence levels of p-p65 and p-IκB. The NF-κB pathway inhibitor PDTC and molecular docking further revealed that Sr reduced LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines production via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. These results suggest that Sr reduces LPS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines production via the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway, thereby exerting an anti-inflammatory effect in bovine ruminal epithelial cells.
WITHDRAWN: An Experimental Study on Quantitative Evaluation of Cognitive Features in Indian College Students with Yoga and Rajyoga Meditation as Intervention
Authors: Madhu Shobhika , KUMAR PRASHANT , CHANDRA SUSHIL
Published: November 2023

Background: The current study reported the stigma of mental health issues among young college students, and analysed the effectiveness of Indian therapeutic interventions, Yoga and Rajyoga meditation, in improving the brain dynamics of Yoga college students. This study is the first of its kind that can provide the wavelet decomposition-based EEG features and the cognitive PEBL task features as neurophysiological markers.
Methods: Electroencephalographic signals and scores from PEBL battery tasks were recorded during performing PEBL tasks before and after eight weeks of intervention.
Results: The post-intervention meditators group demonstrated a substantial improvement in the average scores and memory span in the cognition battery tasks. Additionally, theta, alpha, and beta band powers were higher for post-meditators in frontal, temporal, and parietal regions during CORSI and SIMON tasks.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the combination of Yoga and Rajyoga meditation practice leads to increase in spatial attention, spatial memory, and working memory.
Development of Product Supply Chain Strategy Using BMC and Axiomatic Design
Authors: Kittichotsatsawat Yotsaphat , Rauch Erwin , Woschank Manuel , Tippayawong Korrakot
Published: November 2023

Product is an essential industrial manufacturing that creates high economic value worldwide. Global entrepreneurs’ lack of marketing management led to a severe problem in the manufacturing preparation and control of the supply chain. Therefore, this research aims to develop the product supply chain using axiomatic design and a model canvas to generate a product manufacturing model. A particular case study proved the results. The result showed a suitable model for the product supply chain that can increase entrepreneurs’ profitability through the matrix design. As a result, a suitable model was created for Thailand’s industry. For this purpose, axiomatic design was applied to create a model that could increase supply chain efficiency. In addition, the implications provide capacity and readiness for manufacturers. The output of the appropriate model allows for developing and improving the supply chain strategy according to the Industry 4.0 strategy. However, this model should be tested in manufacturing enterprises to increase reliability. According to the applied methods and described management tools, entrepreneurs can operate their enterprises sustainably and gain market profitability in the future.
Instantons, renormalons and the theta angle in integrable sigma models
Authors: Mariño Marcos , Miravitllas Ramon , Reis Tomás
Published: November 2023

Some sigma models which admit a theta angle are integrable at both \vartheta=0ϑ=0 and \vartheta=\piϑ=π. This includes the well-known O(3)O(3) sigma model and two families of coset sigma models studied by Fendley. We consider the ground state energy of these models in the presence of a magnetic field, which can be computed with the Bethe Ansatz. We obtain explicit results for its non-perturbative corrections and we study the effect of the theta angle on them. We show that imaginary, exponentially small corrections due to renormalons remain unchanged, while instanton corrections change sign, as expected. We find in addition corrections due to renormalons which also change sign as we turn on the theta angle. Based on these results we present an explicit non-perturbative formula for the topological susceptibility of the O(3)O(3) sigma model in the presence of a magnetic field, in the weak coupling limit.
Out of equilibrium many-body expansion dynamics of strongly interacting bosons
Authors: Roy Rhombik , Chakrabarti Barnali , Gammal Arnaldo
Published: November 2023

We solve the Schrödinger equation from first principles to investigate the many-body effects in the expansion dynamics of one-dimensional repulsively interacting bosons released from a harmonic trap. We utilize the multiconfigurational time-dependent Hartree method for bosons (MCTDHB) to solve the many-body Schrödinger equation at high level of accuracy. The MCTDHB basis sets are explicitly time-dependent and optimised by variational principle. We probe the expansion dynamics by three key measures; time evolution of one-, two- and three-body densities. We observe when the mean-field theory results to unimodal expansion, the many-body calculation exhibits trimodal expansion dynamics. The many-body features how the initially fragmented bosons independently spreads out with time whereas the mean-field pictures the expansion of the whole cloud. We also present the three different time scale of dynamics of the inner core, outer core and the cloud as a whole. We analyze the key role played by the dynamical fragmentation during expansion. A Strong evidence of the many-body effects is presented in the dynamics of two- and three-body densities which exhibit correlation hole and pronounced delocalization effect.
WAQF-TAKAFUL DEATH COMPENSATION: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF MAQASID SHARIAH
Authors:   Senior Lecturer, Kulliyyah of Shariah & Law, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia., Abu Bakar Marina , Ahmad Rahayati ,   Senior Lecturer, Kulliyyah of Muamalat& Management Science, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia., Said Roshima ,   Professor, Faculty of Accounting, UniversitiTeknologi MARA (UiTM), 08400, Merbok, Kedah, Malaysia., Hafsha Albasri Siti ,   Lecturer, Centre for Islamic Finance Education and Research (CIFER), Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia., Nadirah Abdul Manan Farah ,   Lecturer, Centre for Islamic Finance Education and Research (CIFER), Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah (UniSHAMS), 09300, Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia.
Published: November 2023

Takaful is an Islamic insurance system that follows Shariah rules, avoiding prohibited elements such as interest, gambling, and uncertainty.Waqf involves transferring property ownership for the benefit of Allah SWT, allowing its use without physical loss to the beneficiary.Presently,only four takaful companies provide the chance for takaful participants to endow death compensation through waqf instruments, namely, Takaful Ikhlas Family Berhad, Etiqa Takaful Berhad, Zurich Takaful Malaysia Berhadand Great Eastern Takaful Berhad.Besides problems in managing waqf, the takaful companies also vary in their waqf contributions to religious institutions, and they often overlook the concept of Maqasid Shariah.Hence, this study was carried out to critically analyze the waqf death compensation through takaful products in Malaysia according to the perspective of Maqasid Shariah. This study adopts a qualitative method, collecting data from interviews with selected takaful operators and secondary published sources. The data was then analyzed using content analysis.The study found that waqf-takaful death compensation offered by takaful companies in Malaysia adheres to Maqasid Shariah.However, these companies face challenges in applying Maqasid Shariah to their waqf-takaful death compensation products.The study proposes that emphasizing Maqasid Shariah could improve waqf-takaful death compensation offerings in Malaysia.
LASERS IN PROSTHODONTICS
Authors: Abraham Sharon
Published: November 2023

Laser treatment in periodontal and oral surgery and in other disciplines in dentistry has replaced many traditional electrosurgical and scalpel procedures and is beginning to replace the dental handpiece. The successful construction of removable full and partial dentures mainly depends on the preoperative evaluation of the supporting hard and soft tissue structures and their proper preparation. Lasers may now be used to perform most preprosthetic surgeries. These procedures include hard and soft tissue tuberosity reduction, torus removal, treatment of unsuitable residual ridges including undercut and irregularly resorbed ridges, treatment of unsupported soft tissues, and other hard and soft tissue abnormalities. Stability, retention, function, and esthetics of removable prostheses may be enhanced by proper laser manipulation of the soft tissues and underlying osseous structure.
CLINICO-MICROBIOLOGICAL SPECTRUM OF HEMODIALYSIS CATHETER-RELATED BLOOD STREAM INFECTIONS: A CONCISE REVIEW
Authors:   Consultant Nephrologist and Renal Transplant Physician, Aster White-Field Hospital, Bangalore, India., George Kristin , Nag Soumyabrata ,   Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology, AIIMS, Nagpur., Gupta K L ,   Former Professor and Head, Department of Nephrology,PGIMER,Chandigarh, India., Gupta Shefali ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, AIIMS, Raebareli.
Published: November 2023

The disease burden of chronic kidney disease is increasing worldwide, and with the growing population of patients requiring hemodialysis, more patients are placed on central venous catheters (CVCs). Vascular access infections significantly cause hospitalization and mortality among end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. As per the data from the United States, Gram-positive organisms account for almost 56% of the total cases of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), in stark contrast to Indian studies showing a dominance of Gram-negative organisms. The prolonged use of non-tunnelled catheters, poor hygiene, lack of catheter care protocols, and the tropical climate pose unique challenges to control CRBSIs in resource-poor countries. The most effective strategy to prevent CRBSI is to minimize the duration of dialysis catheters. Other strategies include the introduction of strict catheter care protocols, using tunnelled cuffed catheters, anti-microbial lock solutions, and topical antimicrobials. Eradicating nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus also reduced the incidence of CRBSIs.Treatment of suspected CRBSI should be promptly initiated with empirical broad-spectrum antibiotics covering Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. Catheter removal is indicated only if the patient is clinically unstable, has metastatic infections, and those who do not respond to antibiotic therapy.
SIGNIFICANCES OF PADARTHA VIJNANAM IN AYURVEDA
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Samhita and Siddhanta, SumandeepAyurved Medical College and Hospital, Sumandeep Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India., P.P Hridya
Published: November 2023

Ayurveda is not only a health science but philosophy as well. The word philosophy refers the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, existence and meaning of life. The most primitive source of the knowledge is believed as Vedas. Later on, it was divided into different darshanas. Most of the concept of darshana are found similar with that of Ayurveda. Darshana used their concept with their own vision and views mainly for the knowledge of universe and mokshapraptiwhereasAyurveda uses it for maintaining the wellbeing of an individual as it is a health science. Padarthavijnana deals with the subject in all completeness and clarity covering the various unique aspects of basic principles of ayurveda. The Padarthavijnana deals with the methods to understand the basic concepts of ayurveda and their practical application in therapeutics. The subject Padarthavijnana illuminating the concept of Ayurveda is a stepping stone in igniting the minds and defining Ayurveda as a potential health science. Padarthavijnana is the scientific system to understand the meaning of words and sentences. AyurvediyaPadarthavijnana gives the knowledge of fundamental principlesof Ayurveda like Tridoshasiddhanta, Panchamahabhutasidhanta, Samanyaviseshasiddhanta, karyakaranasiddhantaetc and all these principles are needed for the proper understanding of Ayurveda and for successful treatment. Also deals with significances of dravya, atma,manas, kala, dik, pramanas, panchamahabhutasetc in Ayurveda.Padarthavijananam should be studied not only as part of Ayurveda curriculum but also for moral progress. It helps to understand the scope and utility of Ayurveda, philosophical foundation of Ayurveda, principles of darshanas along with their similarities and relevance in Ayurveda and the contemporary science, understand the application of padarthain Ayurveda, understand the concept of Pramana shastra in darshana and ayurveda and its application in Ayurveda.Thus, the perfect knowledge of ayurvediyapadarthavijnana is very much essential for every student to understand Ayurveda as well as their proper application to reach the GOAL.
MANAGEMENT OF STRATEGIC CHANGE AT COUNTY GOVERNMENT OF VIHIGA, KENYA
Authors: Munyasi Obenzi Victor , Mercy Florah Oluoch
Published: November 2023

The County Government of Vihiga, Kenya aligns its governance with a resonating change management strategy geared towards progressive socio-economic development. With the advent of devolution and county governments in Kenya in 2013, the efficient management of strategic changes has been a key area of focus.Implementing strategic change management at the County Government of Vihiga is vital for better performance in economic, health, education, and other sectors. It ensures flexibility and adaptability to continually changing circumstances, simultaneously maintaining transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery. However, as with any evolving system, strategic change management faces challenges in this county. This comprises resistance to change among employees, inadequate resources, and unstable political environment. The County Government of Vihiga must be committed to change leadership, capacity building, resource allocation, managing resistance to change, and creating an environment that facilitates continuous improvement.Reviewed studies have focused mainly on strategic change management in private institutions hence there is little empirical data on the application of strategic change management in public institutions, a gap this research aims to bridge. The specific objectives of the study are to establish change management practices adopted by Vihiga County Government,to determine challenges faced by Vihiga County Government in managing strategic change and to ascertain the measures Vihiga County Government has put in place to mitigate challenges of management of strategic change. The research was anchored on open systems theory, chaos and complexity theory and contingency theory. Primary data was collected by use of interview schedule and analysed through content analysis. The results revealed that the county uses various strategies for strategic change management which include employee participation, effective communication active leadership and training. Similarly, it was discovered that the notable challenges encountered in managing strategic change included employee resistance, middle management resistance due to perceived loss of power and poor resource allocation. The main mitigation measures that the county management used to mitigate these drawbacks encompassed the creation of strong synergy and management monitoring of the change implementation process. The study concludes thatCurrently Vihiga County Government has successfully navigated through the change management. It recommends that,there is need to introduce change in a humane way, and if need be, set a guiding and counselling office to enable employees to cope with the change.