bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral and maxillofacial surgery: Availability of specialist training and different training pathways across Africa
Authors: Oyeyemi Opeyemi Victor , Rais Mohammed Amir , Eguavoen Osamende Great , Oluwaferanmi Alufa , Abdalazez Hager , Osunronbi Temidayo
Published: August 2024

Background:

Oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) is the surgical specialty concerned with the treatment of a broad range of conditions that affect the head, face, mouth, neck, and jaw. In Africa, there is a paucity of information about the specialist training available to aspiring African Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

Objective:

This paper aimed at shedding light on the available OMFS specialist training programmes and training pathways across Africa.

Materials and Methods:

The authors searched on PubMed, AJOL, and Google Scholar using the keywords “Africa,” “Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery,” “Residency,” “Postgraduate,” and “Education” and the individual African countries in English and official languages from inception till July 11, 2022. The authors utilised a questionnaire to interview native oral and maxillofacial surgeons and dentists in African countries where there were no published data on OMFS specialist training.

Results:

A total of 21 (38.8%) African countries had OMFS specialist training programmes (n = 69). The duration of training varies between 2 and 7 years. The number of training programmes per country ranges between one and thirteen. Countries with the most training programmes for OMFS in Africa are Nigeria, Egypt, Sudan, and Algeria. Northern Africa and Central Africa had the most and least numbers of specialist training programmes in OMFS, respectively.

Conclusion:

There remains a disparity in the number of specialist training programmes available to aspiring African Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons as compared with other parts of the world. This paper is intended to function both as a means of advocacy to increase funding and resources in support of the infrastructure and development of facilities for African OMFS specialist training programmes and also serve as a valuable reference for future research in OMFS.
Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction learning curve: Analysis of operating time and clinical outcomes
Authors: Arojuraye Soliudeen Adebayo , Salihu Mohammed Nuhu , Salahudeen Abdulfatah
Published: August 2024

Background:

Technical proficiency for arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is complex and requires learning and practice. Achieving an appropriate level of competency with this surgery is important for patient safety and satisfactory surgical outcomes. There is limited literature about the learning curve in ACLR in Africa.

Objectives:

This study aimed to demonstrate the learning curve associated with ACLR.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study on arthroscopic ACLR was conducted between January 2020 and June 2023 with a minimum of 12 months follow-up. The primary outcome measure was operation time, whereas the secondary outcome measures were functional outcome and postoperative complications.

Results:

One hundred fifty-nine ACLR met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. The mean age of the patients was 31.47 ± 9.50 years. There were 148 (93.1%) males and 11 (6.9%) females. The median operation time was 50 min (45–190 min). There was progressively decreasing operation time with increasing number of cases done until after the first 19 cases. The mean operating time for the first 19 cases was 143.89 ± 32.84 min, whereas the mean operating time for the later 140 cases was 53.81 ± 9.72 min (P = 0.000).

Conclusions:

The operation time for arthroscopic ACLR progressively decreased until after the first 19 cases. There was, however, no significant difference in the clinical outcome between the cases done during the learning curve and those done at proficiency.
Giant fibro-epithelial polyp of the vulva: A case report
Authors: Lawal Bilkisu Kankia , Yahya Anisah , Zubair Surayya Yaakub , Abubakar Murtala , Kabir Balarabe , Oguntayo Adekunle Olarenwaju , Kolawole Abimbola Omolara
Published: August 2024

Fibro-epithelial polyps (FEPs), also referred to as acrochordons or skin tags, are benign tumours that generally occur in women of reproductive age. They are uncommonly found in the vulva and vary in clinical appearances from small papillomatous growths to large pedunculated tumours. Typically, they are less than 5 cm. The wide range of morphological appearances of these tumours, especially when they are large, can be misinterpreted as malignant. This case involved a 30-year old multipara, 14-month post-partum who presented with a huge, irregular, firm, pedunculated mass on the right labium majus. The mass had patchy areas of skin ulceration and measured 25 cm × 15 cm × 10 cm on a 4-cm × 2-cm long stalk. It started as a 3-cm long finger-like projection with globular distal end that progressively increased in size over 7-month period. There were no swellings in other body parts. She had excisional biopsy of the mass which weighed 588 grams with histological diagnosis of inflamed FEP and had no recurrence at follow-up. This case illustrates an uncommon presentation of the second largest FEP of the vulva reported, which could be misinterpreted as malignant. Clinical, and pathological expertise with complete surgical excision are paramount for effective management to exclude atypia or malignancy and prevent recurrence.
Clinical Profile of Patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) Seen in a Tertiary Eye Clinic
Authors: Chime Amalachukwu Amanda , Chime Michael Okwudili , Eze Ugochukwu Anthony , Eze Gloria Chizoba , Okoye Onochie Ike
Published: August 2024

Background:

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is the medication regimen for the management of human immunodeficiency virus. Over time, it has been dubbed to have revolutionised the clinical course and outcomes of HIV/AIDS.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to determine the clinical factors associated with the ocular manifestation of HIV/AIDS among patients on HAART.

Materials and Methods:

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the ophthalmology department of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in 2017 among adult patients (≥18 years) attending the hospital’s antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic and selected using systematic random sampling technique. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used for data analysis, with variables being summarised using frequencies and proportions. Inferential statistics (t test, Chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test) was used to test associations between variables. A level of significance was set at a P value of less than 0.05 corresponding to a 95% confidence interval.

Results:

A majority of patients were in WHO stages 1 and 2 of HIV and the mean CD4+ cell count of the whole population was 575.0 ± 512.56 cells/µL, while that of those with ocular manifestations was 315.2 ± 290.76 and 633.7 ± 533.54 cells/µL for those who do not have ocular manifestation. There was a significant association between CD4+ cell count and ocular manifestations such as conjunctival microvasculopathy, anterior uveitis, and cytomegalovirus retinitis.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that HAART has some positive effect on the clinical profile of people with HIV/AIDS with CD4+ count being a major determinant of ocular manifestations.
Effect of fascia closure with triclosan-coated polydioxanone suture on surgical site infection in open appendectomy wounds: A comparative study
Authors: Aderounmu Adewale A. , Olasehinde Olalekan , Wuraola Funmilola O. , Adisa Adewale O. , Lawal Oladejo O.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Interest in surgical site infections (SSI) has been sustained over the years because its occurrence may be ruinous to the overall success of surgical operations. The use of antimicrobial suture has been associated with a reduction in SSI, but its role in open appendectomy has not been evaluated.

Objective:

This study compared the effect of fascia closure with triclosan-coated polydioxanone (PDS) with plain PDS on SSI in appendectomy wounds.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety-three consecutive patients who had open appendectomy for uncomplicated acute appendicitis were randomised to either have fascia closure with triclosan-coated PDS (TCS) or plain PDS. Post-operative wound infection rates were compared.

Results:

SSI occurred in three of the 93 patients (3.2%), two of these occurred in the plain suture group, while one occurred in the TCS group (4.2% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.6). All three SSIs were superficial. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant organism isolated in the infected wounds.

Conclusion:

The use of triclosan-coated polydioxanone for fascia closure in open appendectomy did not significantly affect the rate or severity of SSI. Further studies, perhaps evaluating the use of TCS in a different anatomical plane or complicated appendicitis are recommended.
Parental knowledge of HPV infection, cervical cancer and the acceptance of HPV vaccination for their children in Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Anyaka Charles U , Alero Babalola-Jacobs , Olukoya Biodun , Envuladu Esther A , Musa Jonah , Sagay Atiene S
Published: August 2024

Background:

Despite the high prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and cervical cancer in Nigeria, the utilization of the HPV vaccine as a highly effective preventive measure remains low. The aim of this study was to find out if parental knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer influenced the acceptance of HPV vaccines for their 9–14-year-old children.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional survey of 509 parents comprising 262 fathers and 247 mothers in 8 randomly selected communities in Jos, Plateau State Nigeria. A pretested semi-structured investigator-administered questionnaire, without identifiers, was used to collect information on parental knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer, HPV vaccine and its acceptance for their 9–14-year-old children. The data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0. Bivariate analysis was done using chi-square statistical test. Point estimates with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated with a value of P ≤ 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:

Five hundred and nine parents were interviewed. The mean age of the respondents was 43.7 ± 9.43 years. Most of the participants (86.1%) had formal education from primary to tertiary level. Only 1.60%, 11.60% and 1.62% of respondents had knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer and HPV vaccines respectively, whereas 67.8% of parents were willing to pay for the cancer-preventing HPV vaccines out-of-pocket. There was no statistically significant associations between parental level of education (P = 0.056), parental knowledge of cancer of cervix (P = 0.483), religion of parents (P = 0.324) and the acceptance of HPV vaccination for their children. There was a statistically significant association between parental willingness to pay for HPV vaccines if not offered free (P = 0.001) with acceptance of vaccination. Vaccine acceptability was associated with positive attitude towards the vaccine (odds ratio [OR] = 4.178; 95% CI, 1.714–10.180; P = 0.002), whereas parental knowledge of HPV, cervical cancer and HPV vaccine did not show significant association with acceptability of HPV vaccination for their children.

Conclusion:

Despite poor parental knowledge of HPV infection and cervical cancer, there was high acceptability of HPV vaccination for their children. HPV vaccination was acceptable to parents regardless of educational level or religion. Parents in Jos communities seems to have much faith in preventive vaccines as advertised by the health authorities. Accordingly, efforts should be geared towards ensuring availability, affordability and the provision of basic information regarding HPV vaccination in Northern Nigeria.
Tissue necrosis: A burden of pentazocine abuse in South East Nigeria
Authors: Cosmas Mba Uwakwe , Onyebueke Godwin , Okwesili Obinna Remigius , Enyanwuma Ifeanyi Edwin , Okorie Gabriel Maduwuike , Ohayi Samuel Robsam , Ugwu Ifeanyi Chinedu , Ezeme Mark Sunday , Okenwa Wilfred Okwudili
Published: August 2024

Background:

Tissue necrosis from pentazocine abuse is becoming a burden in our environment. Pentazocine is an opioid of the benzomorphan class. It is commonly used for post-traumatic and postoperative pain and vaso-occlusive pain of sickle cell disease (SCD). Its prolonged use can lead to addiction and may result in severe injection site necrosis, often worsened by infection due to a lack of aseptic principles during administration. Although pentazocine is a controlled drug in our environment, it is readily available.

Objectives:

To review patients with tissue necrosis from pentazocine injection, share the challenges in their management, and proffer solutions.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical summaries of patients with tissue necrosis and ulcers due to pentazocine addiction were reviewed.

Results:

Twenty-five patients, comprising nine females and 16 males aged 22–61 years, were recorded. Twenty had SCD, while five had other underlying conditions. The duration of abuse was 1–16 years, while the average maximum daily dose was 348.75 ± 346.04 mg. Most patients used multiple sites for injection. Lesions included abscesses, tissue necrosis with ulcers, lymphoedema, exposed necrotic bones, and osteomyelitis. Most had multidisciplinary care. The outcome of wound care was good in two. Three had major limb amputations, four died, three signed against medical advice, six were still receiving care while seven were lost to follow-up. None was completely weaned from the drug at the time of this report.

Conclusion:

Rising cases of tissue necrosis from pentazocine abuse are disturbing. Treatment is frustrating. Concerted efforts at prevention should be made to stem the tide.
Isolated foveal hypoplasia: A case series
Authors: Murthy Sowmya Raveendra , Patnaik Anshupa , Raghu Nitya
Published: August 2024

Foveal hypoplasia is a well-known condition characterized by an absent or abnormal foveomacular reflex. It may occur in isolation or in association with aniridia, albinism, achromatopsia, microphthalmos, and other anterior segment anomalies. The clinical diagnosis might often be missed due to the subtle nature of findings. We describe five cases of two families with isolated foveal hypoplasia. The presence of nystagmus and unexplained poor vision in children without features of retinal dystrophies should raise a suspicion of isolated foveal hypoplasia. Detailed and careful fundus examination, especially the foveal area, helps in diagnosing the same.
Deciphering the uveitis quagmire
Authors: Kumar Archana , Joy Vinny , Mathew Mini
Published: August 2024

Differential diagnosis of uveitis, the role of immunosuppressives and biologics in the management.
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence for glaucoma diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Akkara John Davis
Published: August 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has great potential for diagnosing and managing glaucoma, a disease that causes irreversible vision loss. Early detection is paramount to prevent visual field loss. AI algorithms demonstrate promising capabilities in analyzing various glaucoma investigations. In analyzing retinal fundus photographs, AI achieves high accuracy in detecting glaucomatous optic nerve cupping, a hallmark feature. AI can also analyze optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of the retinal nerve fiber layer(RNFL) and ganglion cell complex, identifying structural changes indicative of glaucoma and also Anterior Segment OCT(AS-OCT) for angle closure disease. OCT interpretation may even be extended to diagnose early features of systemic neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease and Parkinson’s Disease. Furthermore, AI can assist in interpreting visual field (VF) tests, including predicting future VF loss patterns for the next 5 years. The ability of AI to integrate data from multiple modalities, including fundus photographs, Intra Ocular Pressure(IOP) measurements, RNFL OCT, AS-OCT, and VF tests, paves the way for a more comprehensive glaucoma assessment. This approach has the potential to revolutionize ophthalmology by enabling teleophthalmology and facilitating the development of personalized treatment plans. However, the authors emphasize the crucial role of human judgement and oversight in interpreting AI-generated results. Ultimately, ophthalmologists must make the final decisions regarding diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Systemic risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus- A cross-sectional study in a South Indian cohort
Authors: Benita Doris , Kaliaperumal Subashini , Deb Amit K.
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a multifactorial disease. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the systemic risk factors for diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 DM in a South Indian Cohort.

Materials and Methods:

Design:
Cross-sectional analytical. All participants fulfilling the eligibility criteria were recruited into two groups: with DR (Group 1) and without DR (Group 2). Both groups were compared for the risk factors using univariate and logistic regression analysis and adjusted Odds ratios (OR) were calculated. Patients in Group 1 were further divided into subgroups based on severity of DR and risk factors were analysed across the subgroups.

Results:

93 patients were recruited in each group. Comparing Group 1 versus Group 2: On logistic regression analysis, factors like HbA1c >8% (adjusted OR 7.1), duration >10 years (adjusted OR 22.15), insulin treatment (adjusted OR 6.34), CKD (adjusted OR 12.18), and hypertension (adjusted OR 8.22) were associated with presence of any stage DR. Comparing risk factors across Group 1: HTN and insulin treatment were associated with severity of DR.

Conclusion:

Insulin treatment for type 2 DM was found to be an additional risk factor in our study. However, this finding needs to be further validated in future prospective cohort studies on larger sample sizes.
Incidence of adverse drug reactions among tuberculosis patients initiated on daily drug regimen in a southern district of Karnataka
Authors: Kumar R. N. Hithaish , Rao Chythra R. , Maradi Ravindra , Umakanth Shashikiran , Sanju S. V. Chidananda , Balu P. S.
Published: August 2024

Aim:

The study aimed to determine the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) among newly diagnosed tuberculosis (TB) patients receiving daily drug regimen with fixed-dose combination treatment under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based prospective cohort study was carried out in the Udupi district. Over 12 months, all newly diagnosed TB patients of either gender were included from 63 primary health centers and 6 community health centers, and ADRs were recorded by personal interviews.

Results:

A total of 710 patients were enrolled, among whom 453 (63.8%), were males, and 257 (36.2%) were females. Pulmonary TB was diagnosed among 510 (71.8%) and 200 (28.2%) were extrapulmonary cases. During the intensive phase (IP) of treatment, 480 (67.6%) patients reported at least one ADR and 79 (11.1%) experienced two ADRs during IP and 31 (6.5%) had ADRs during the continuation phase. Out of 480, 140 (29.2%) had gastritis, 132 (27.5%) had vomiting, 105 (21.9%) had nausea, 60 (12.5%) had skin rashes, 27 (5.6%) had drug-induced hepatitis, and 16 (3.3%) had vision problems. Among 480 patients with ADRs, 462 (96.3%) had successful treatment outcomes, the remaining 17 patients (3.5%) died, and one (0.2%) had treatment failure.

Conclusions:

Adverse events were more common in the 1st few months of treatment than in subsequent months. All mild-to-moderate ADRs were effectively managed, and most had successful treatment outcomes.
Possible Roles of Epigenetics in Stem Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Krubaa P.
Published: August 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, leading to motor and nonmotor symptoms. While current therapies provide symptomatic relief, they do not address the underlying cause of the disease. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising approach to restore damaged neural circuits, and the role of epigenetics in this field has gained significant attention. DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and noncoding RNA expression are examples of epigenetic changes that influence gene expression patterns without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These changes control cell fate determination, differentiation, and maturation, making them critical to the success of stem cell-based therapies. Proper epigenetic remodeling is required during stem cell reprogramming or differentiation into dopaminergic neurons to ensure the optimal expression of genes related to neuronal identity and function. Given the potential for affecting the efficacy of stem cell therapy, increased attention needs to be given to the epigenetic processes that occur during stem cell culture and transplantation to maximize the therapeutic potential of stem cells to PD. This review article explores the intricate relationship between epigenetics and stem cell therapy for PD, providing insights into the epigenetic modifications involved in stem cell differentiation, integration, and functional recovery in preclinical and clinical settings. By examining the epigenetic factors that influence stem cell-based treatments, we aim to contribute to the development of more effective and targeted strategies for the management of PD.
Analysis of road safety implementation strategies to support the easiest introduction of autonomous braking products for complex vehicle combinations
Authors: Guarenghi Vinicius Mendes , Pizzi Rafael Fortuna , Depetris Alessandro , Pinto Gustavo Laranjeira Nunes , Collobialli Germano
Published: August 2024

In contrast to passenger cars, whose regulation allowed only a simple trailer combination, the autonomous technologies implementation of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS) for commercial vehicles demands more application and calibration efforts. At this case, the focus is on dynamic control of towing vehicles when applying the service brakes of trailer, in special when complex combination as bi-train and road-train, allowed in North and South America. However, the major risk is present occurrence when an ESC or AEBS equipped towing vehicles is connected to a double or triple trailer combination with a conventional braking system, it means: a system that is not equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). For instance, if during autonomous control, trailers wheels lock, a jackknifing phenomenon can easily occur. Therefore, in case longer and heavier vehicles (LHV) or megatrucks as called in Europe, the strategy for safety assistance systems application should consider trailer configuration maturity level of public reading fleet. In this context, the article aims to propose strategies of implementation and product development that can support the easiest introduction of road safety technologies based on autonomous braking products, in special when it is applied in markets where towed vehicles fleet are greater participation of vehicles equipped with conventional braking system, as occur in Brazil. In order to deliver this, a bibliographic research was carried out looking the available regulation and polities from markets where ESC and AEBS were already implemented, like EU and US. In addition, it was studied an Argentine government program that introduce at same time: road safety technologies, technological fleet renewal policies, periodic vehicle inspection, however offsetting the increased costs with logistical benefits for transport business.
Analysis of the Effectiveness of Organization-Based Learning on Nursing Performance at Regional General Hospital
Authors: Setyawan Daniel Bagus , Supratno Haris , Roesminingsih Erny
Published: August 2024

Objective: Improving services in hospitals is related to the effectiveness of the performance of health workers, especially nurses. Nurses are also the health workers who most often and longest interact with patients. Hospitals have well received the concept of organization-based learning as a health institution. Organizational-based learning is necessary for the development of employees and the institution itself. This study analyzes the effectiveness of implementing organization-based learning on nurses' performance at Regional General Hospital Dr. WahidinSudiroHusodoMojokerto City. Method: This qualitative research uses primary and secondary data. Data collection techniques are through observation and interviews. The selection of informants in this study was carried out using the total sampling method. Results: The results showed that organization-based learning improves nurses' performance in inpatient service. Novelty: Organizational-based learning can be applied in hospitals to improve nursing performance in providing services. The head of the room must also be a good manager when implementing this program.
Development of a Model of Transformational Leadership Behavior and Ethical Leadership of Elementary School Principals in Creating Excellent Schools
Authors: Ariani Devi , Riswandi Riswandi , Maulina Dina
Published: August 2024

Objective: This research aims to demonstrate elementary school principals' transformational and ethical leadership behavior. Method: This research is a type of research and development (R&D) research, and the development carried out refers to the Borg & Gall theory. The population of this study was school principals in Cluster 1 Diponegoro, Kasui District, Way Kanan Regency. The sample for this research was determined using a total sampling technique based on the research objectives: nine school principals in Gugus 1 Diponegoro. The data collection tool uses a valid and reliable questionnaire instrument. The data analysis technique uses a practicality test and questionnaire feasibility test with a calculated average value of 90 in the practical category. Results: The research results show that the model of transformational leadership behavior and ethical leadership of elementary school principals is practical. This is because the model of transformational leadership behavior and ethical leadership of school principals can significantly influence the quality and performance of teaching staff to create superior schools. Novelty: This research studies the topic further, showing that the model of transformational leadership behavior and ethical leadership of school principals greatly influence the quality and performance of teachers.
E-Book on Ethno-conservation of Agricultural Land for Teaching Students' Critical Thinking Skills in Sidoarjo-Indonesia
Authors: Pratama Moch. Yogi , Kuntjoro Sunu , Asri Mahanani Tri
Published: August 2024

Objective: This research aims to test the effectiveness of an e-book on the ethno-conservation of agricultural land in Sidoarjo for teaching students critical thinking skills in environmental conservation material. Critical thinking ability is one of the higher-order thinking skills in Bloom's taxonomy and needs to be applied in the learning process. Critical thinking skills need to be trained in students to solve problems in their environment. Method: The method used in this study is a one-group pre-test and post-test design with 15 students from the science program. The e-book had already undergone feasibility and practicality tests before being implemented in the learning process. The effectiveness test consisted of 5 multiple-choice questions and six essay questions tested for feasibility. Data processing was done using Ms. Excel and SPSS. Results:  The Wilcoxon test results showed that using the e-book oriented towards the local wisdom values of Sidoarjo in environmental conservation material affects teaching students critical thinking skills. Novelty: The results of this research can be used as a reference for learning media integrated with local wisdom values to teach students critical thinking skills.
Phenotype of eosinophilic esophagitis with outcome in stenosis in children: a series of clinical cases
Authors: Vyazankina Svetlana S. , Budkina Tatyana N. , Lokhmatov Maxim M. , Makarova Svetlana G. , Fisenko Andrey P. , Oldakovsky Vladislav I. , Tupylenko Artem V. , Korolev Grigoriy A. , Kulikov Kirill A. , Ilansskaya Mila V. , Ereshko Oksana A. , Galimova Albina A. , Gordeeva Irina G. , Alkhasov Abdumanap B. , Potapov Alexandr S. , Movsisyan Goar B. , Anushenko Anton O.
Published: August 2024

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated disease characterized by esophageal dysfunction due to prolonged eosinophilic infiltration of tissues. In recent years, there has been a tendency to increase the prevalence of EoE, which may lead to an increase in the detection of esophageal strictures in children.
Aim: to determine the clinical features of the phenotype of eosinophilic esophagitis with an outcome in stenosis in children.
Materials and methods. Seventy children diagnosed with EoE were examined, 9 (12.86%) of them had esophageal stenosis. The average age of the disease manifestation was 6.17 years. The analysis of a series of EoE cases with esophageal stenosis was carried out to describe the phenotype of the disease. At the same time, clinical characteristics of patients with EoE, data from laboratory and instrumental examination methods, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy, were used.
Results. In the examined patients, the delay in the diagnosis of EoE averaged 3 years after the appearance of the first symptoms. Early manifestations of EOE in children are discomfort when swallowing and the need to grind food. The most common concomitant gastroenterological disease was gastroesophageal reflux (GER). All patients had food allergies, of which 55 (77.8%) were allergic to cow’s milk proteins (ACMP). Esophageal stenosis was more often local, in the lower or middle third. Inflammatory changes in the mucous membrane (MM) of the esophagus were detected in all patients; ring-type disorders were noted in 47 (66.7%) patients. The median of the maximum number of eosinophils in MM is 30 per 0.3 mm2. Subepithelial fibrosis was observed in 16 (22.2%) children. In 62 (88.9%) patients, esophageal stenosis was stopped against the background of conservative treatment.
Conclusion. Increasing awareness of EoE in children is necessary to reduce the time for diagnosis, timely treatment and reduce the risk of complications in the form of esophageal stenosis.
A A DEFICIÊNCIA VISUAL E A ESCOLA
Authors: OLIVEIRA CORREIA MICHELLE , Cabanas Ana
Published: August 2024

A pessoa com deficiência é aquela que possui alguma perda sensorial, física ou psíquica, limitando ou não ações. No caso da deficiência visual, a pessoa é suprimida do sentido da visão, completa ou parcialmente. Ao longo da história a pessoa com deficiência visual teve direitos humanos e civis tolhidos; em alguns momentos vistas sem o direito de viver e, atualmente, mediante as legislações vigentes, lhe são reconhecidos e garantidos os direitos humanos e civis como de ser incluída na escola de ensino regular. Nesse sentido, objetiva-se, neste artigo, como recorte de uma tese doutoral, elucidar minúcias sobre a deficiência visual, abordando fatores e tecnologias assistivas pertinentes para a aprendizagem deste público. Assim, a metodologia foi uma pesquisa de natureza básica, descritiva e bibliográfica. Diante deste cenário, conclui-se que não basta apenas receber o aluno com deficiência visual, é preciso pensar e investir em processos que garantam a maior independência, principalmente, dar acesso aos conteúdos trabalhados na escola de forma equiparada e justa. Desta forma, a comunidade escolar garante acolhimento eficiente e aprendizagem eficaz para todos os estudantes, sem restrição.
ANALISIS KESULITAN BELAJAR MATEMATIKA MATERI PEMBAGIAN PADA PESERTA DIDIK KELAS V DI SD NEGERI PRIGI 1 KABUPATEN BOJONEGORO
Authors: Lestari Dwi Putri , Pratikno Ahmad Sudi
Published: August 2024

The learning abilities of each student are not all the same, but their abilities are different. Many students still have difficulty understanding the material and working on the questions that have been given. The most common learning difficulties experienced by students are in mathematics lessons. The aim of this research was to find out what learning difficulties experienced by class V students at SD Negeri Prigi 1 Kanor in the distribution material and what factors influenced it. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method with triangulation data collection techniques, namely through interviews, observation and documentation. The results of the research that has been carried out show that difficulties in learning mathematics for class V students regarding division are difficulties in understanding the concept (difficulty using counting skills in a downward order), difficulty in subtracting numbers, difficulty working on story-based questions, and difficulty in writing down values. place. Meanwhile, the factors that cause their learning difficulties consist of internal factors including the lack of enthusiasm and enthusiasm of students when learning takes place and external factors which include the use of monotonous learning methods such as the lecture method, no supporting learning media, and lack of parental support in learning mathematics.
The Study of Foreign Direct Investment from Taiwan to Thailand
Authors:   Ming Chuan University, Taiwan, Chang Yu-Ling , Chiang HuiChen ,   Ming Chuan University, Taiwan, Pichaiparakorn Sarida ,   Ming Chuan University, Taiwan
Published: August 2024

This study aims to comprehensively analyze the significance of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in driving economic development, specifically focusing on Outflow FDI from Taiwan to Thailand. To accomplish the objective of this study, it employed a strategic approach integrating various models and utilizing statistical testing procedures to investigate the data over an 11-year period from 2012 to 2022. The findings underscore the significant impact of FDI on Thailand's GDP and PI, while also revealing the intricate effects stemming from both internal and external factors as incentives for investment, resulting from policy promotion. Moreover, this research holds value for researchers exploring economic relationships, assists policymakers in identifying trends, opportunities, and challenges, and provides insights for future considerations and proactive measures.
Observation of stunting status with the motor skills of toddler children
Authors: Haris Fahmil , Fauziah Varhatun , Rahman Dally , Ockta Yovhandra , Zarya Fiky , Pranoto Nuridin Widya , Geantă Vlad Adrian , Orhan Bekir Erhan , Karaçam Aydın
Published: August 2024

Background: Stunting is a condition of child growth caused by chronic malnutrition that lasts for a long period of time. This condition can cause slowed physical growth and delays in the development of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, language and personal social skills in children. Good motor skills enable children to carry out daily activities and have a big impact on the child's future. This study aims to evaluate the motor skills of children diagnosed with stunting. Method: This research applies a descriptive quantitative approach with a cross-sectional research design, with a sample consisting of two groups of children (boys/girls) with a total sample of 31 children with criteria aged 3 to 5 years: the group diagnosed with male stunting (N =12) and female stunting group (N=19). Children's motor skills were measured using the TGMD-2 (Test of Gross Motor Development-2) motor skills test which has been tested for validity and reliability. The Shapiro-Wilkoxon test was used to check normal data distribution. Results: The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference between male and female children diagnosed with stunting (P<0.05). Children diagnosed with female stunting have lower motor skills with an average Gross Motor Quontient x̄87, while boys diagnosed with stunting have a Gross Motor Quontient of x̄85.9. In male stunting children, the highest performance was in the kick movement skill with a value of ±4.25, while the lowest performance was in the gallop skill with a value of ±2.00. For girls with stunting, the highest performance was in the object control skill Stricking a stationary ball with a value of ±3.53, while the lowest performance was in the gallop skill with a value of ±1.32. In terms of motor skills, normal boys performed better than girls in jumping, hopping, and sliding (P<0.05). In terms of motor skills, male stunted children performed better than female stunted children (P<0.05). Conclusion:In this study, children with the same nutritional status and different genders (boys/girls) showed certain characteristics in basic motor skills (FMS), indicating that they were influenced by nutritional status and gender. Boys and girls with stunting status tend to have lower abilities in carrying out some process characteristics of some skills than others, but may perform better in other skills. This suggests that certain population groups may require a special focus on interventions to improve their basic motor skill levels. Further research will provide greater clarity for improving interventions targeted at basic motor skills.
Keywords: Locomotor skills; Object control skills; Basic motor skills; Children; Development; Nutritional status.
Síntese de ésteres derivados do eugenol e avaliação de suas atividades leishmanicida e fungicida
Authors:   , Souza Laura Irthes Gonçalves de
Published: August 2024

O eugenol é uma substância de origem natural que possui diversas atividades biológicas, incluindo propriedades fungicida e leishmanicida. Este estudo descreve a síntese de ésteres derivados do eugenol e a avaliação de suas atividades fungicida e leishmanicida. A reação de esterificação de Steglich entre o eugenol e diferentes ácidos carboxílicos foi empregada na preparação de vinte e dois ésteres. Os derivados foram obtidos com rendimentos variando entre 36% e 97% e caracterizados por meio das espectroscopias no infravermelho e de ressonância magnética nuclear de hidrogênio-1 e carbono-13. A atividade fungicida dos ésteres sintetizados foi avaliada em relação à espécie fitopatogênica Fusarium oxysporum, causadora da fusariose. Entre os vinte e dois ésteres sintetizados, nove demonstraram significativa capacidade de inibir o crescimento micelial da espécie fúngica. Dentre os ésteres apresentaram atividade fungicida, destacam-se os compostos 4-metilbenzoato de 4-alil-2-metoxifenila (3k) e 2-fluorobenzoato de 4-alil- 2-metoxifenila (3p) como os mais eficazes em inibir o crescimento micelial, superando o próprio eugenol. A atividade leishmanicida dos ésteres foi avaliada contra as espécies Leishmania amazonensis, Leishmania braziliensis (causadoras da leishmaniose cutânea) e Leishmania infantum (causadora da leishmaniose visceral). Dezoito ésteres apresentaram atividade leishmanicida contra o parasito L. amazonensis, sendo que treze demonstraram atividade superior à apresentada pelo eugenol, e quatro superiores à anfotericina B, fármaco utilizado para o tratamento da leishmaniose. No que diz respeito à espécie L. braziliensis, dezoito ésteres foram ativos contra o parasito, e dezessete apresentaram atividade inibitória superior à do eugenol. Dentre esses compostos, doze tiveram atividade inibitória duas vezes superior àquela exibida pelo eugenol. Todos os ésteres foram eficazes em inibir o crescimento dos parasitos da espécie L. infantum. Dezessete dos vinte e dois compostos avaliados apresentaram atividade inibitória superior a 50%, e treze foram mais eficazes que o eugenol. Os compostos 2-metilbenzoato de 4-alil-2-metoxifenila (3j) e 2-metoxibenzoato de 4- alil-2-metoxifenila (3r) foram os mais efetivos contra as três espécies de parasitos avaliadas. Os resultados encontrados neste trabalho apontam para a utilidade dos ésteres derivados do eugenol como substâncias promissoras no desenvolvimento e pesquisa de novos agentes bioativos para o controle de fungos, bem como para o tratamento das leishmanioses. Palavras-chave: Eugenol. Ésteres. Fungicida. Leishmanicida. Esterificação de Steglich.
Exploring Factors Influencing the Amazon Best-Selling Books Selection Process from 2009 to 2019
Authors:   Master of Science in Business Analytics Student Candidates, Ageno School of Business, Golden Gate University, San Francisco, California 94105, USA, Maloku Fatbardha
Published: August 2024

This research paper investigates the "Amazon Best-Selling Books" dataset, focusing on the methodology behind selecting top-selling books on the Amazon platform and employing analytical techniques to uncover key marketing factors. The study centers on evaluating consumer reviews and ratings collected from Amazon.com. It outlines the analysis methodology and discusses encountered challenges. Findings from the review analysis contribute to a discussion on influential factors in the Amazon book market, aiming to guide strategies for enhancing annual revenue from book sales at Amazon.
CLUSTER IMPLEMENTATION OF FUNCTIONS OF REDUNDANCY MEANS
Authors: Filippova Olga
Published: August 2024

Various functions of redundancy means in a fiction text in most cases act in close cooperation, being implemented in a cluster. The interaction of functions is a characteristic feature of this linguistic phenomenon, which is the subject of our study. The aim of this article is to identify the functional and conceptual significance of redundancy means in a fiction text, which involves solving the following tasks:1) to determine the main methodological prerequisites of the study, based on the critical analysis of linguistic literature on the problems of cognitive linguistics, cognitive stylistics and fiction text; 2) to identify the main means of the cognitive category of redundancy in a fiction text; 3) to prove the conceptual and functional significance of the category of redundancy in a fiction text; 4) to substantiate the cluster implementation of redundancy functions in a fiction text.
A cidade aberta ao Céu Xamânico: percurso de pesquisas e práticas ritualísticas no Instituto Xamânico Céu da Ayahuasca em Marabá, Pará
Authors: Cruz Correia Roberta , S. Silva Jerônimo
Published: August 2024

Neste trabalho, situamos o município de Marabá, no sudeste do Pará, sua constituição histórica, social e cultural. Refletindo a relação das pessoas com os rios afluentes da cidade - Tocantins, Itacaiunas e Araguaia -, os períodos de inverno/verão amazônico e sua importância para a manutenção de práticas culturais e xamânicas. Foi realizada uma pesquisa no Instituto Xamânico Céu da Ayahuasca, dirigido por Kim Acácio e Iara Domingues, localizado às margens do rio Tocantins e inserido no Projeto de Assentamento Comunidade Boa Esperança, rastreando histórias sobre a criação do local e a relação do rio com as práticas xamânicas. Como metodologia, foi produzida uma entrevista semi-estruturada, etnografia participativa, utilizando caderno de campo e fotografias. Esboçamos a importância dos rios para a comunidade, bem como os atravessamentos xamânicos na cidade, nos rios e florestas nos rituais no/do Instituto.
Herança Multifatorial Enquanto Proposta de Ensino Contextualizado na Educação de Jovens e Adultos - EJA
Authors: Sousa Alencar Antonio Eugenio , Vander Calmon Tosta
Published: August 2024

Criar condições para que o conhecimento seja construído de maneira crítica e ativa pelos estudantes deve estar entre os princípios que norteiam a ação docente. Nesse sentido, este trabalho tem por objetivo descrever uma proposta de ensino investigativo em genética considerando como público-alvo estudantes da segunda etapa da educação de jovens e adultos. A metodologia se configura em revisão bibliográfica qualitativa ancorada ao método da observação participante. Como resultado têm-se que a adoção de metodologias ativas de ensino contribuem de modo substancial na aprendizagem, impulsionando processos criativos dentro do contexto característico da EJA e fortalecendo os processos de consolidação do conhecimento contextualizado pela apropriação potencial de elementos e signos característicos do cotidiano estudantil.
Telemedicine consultations in pulmonology
Authors: Avdeev Sergey N. , Berikkhanov Zelimkhan G. , Merzhoeva Zamira M. , Titova Irina P. , Sokolov Nikita A. , Nikitina Lidiya Yu. , Akhmarova Aisha Sh. , Mullaeva Medina M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction. There are no separate reports devoted to telemedicine consultations in pulmonology. Severe respiratory failure and distance of residence of many patients sometimes makes it impossible to transport them to specialized medical institutions. Telemedicine consultations in such cases make it much easier to receive medical care, conduct a Consilium or coordinate further treatment tactics at the patient’s place of residence. This article analyzes the results of telemedicine consultations of patients with pulmonary pathologies.
Purpose. To evaluate the opportunities and main trends of providing medical care to pulmonary patients by means of telemedicine consultations.
Materials and methods. We retrospectively analyzed the results of seven hundred one telemedicine consultation on pulmonary profile in the “doctor–doctor” format for the period of March–December, 2022 inclusive. The following parameters were analyzed: request type, request region, profile, diagnosis by ICD-10 classes, routing recommendations, and patient hospitalization.
Results. The largest number of requests came from the Central (29.5%), Volga (22.5%) and Siberian (18%) Federal Districts. 302 cases were recommended for routing to federal centers, 57 patients were actually hospitalized. For interstitial lung diseases 266 (38%) telemedicine consultations were performed, pneumonias: 167 (24%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: 130 (19%), sarcoidosis: 33 (5%), which in total accounted for more than 85% of all telemedicine consultations performed.
Research limitations: short analysis period (March–December 2022), low or no requests for telemedicine consultations from selected regions.
Conclusion. The use of telemedicine consultations in pulmonology makes medical care more accessible to the population, which undoubtedly affects morbidity and mortality rates.