bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Los inicios del Siglo de Oro de la música en Salamanca: el maestro Antonio Gallego y el organista Pedro Catalán
Authors: Cruz Rodríguez Javier
Published: December 2022

Existen muchas lagunas sobre el inicio de la etapa musical más floreciente en Salamanca, el siglo XVI, cuya fama viene dada principalmente por ilustres músicos que trabajaron para la catedral y la universidad, sus dos excepcionales instituciones. Esta aportación, centrada en la primera mitad del siglo XVI, menos conocida, presenta nuevos datos sobre el maestro de capilla de la catedral Antonio Gallego (activo entre 1506 y 1543) y sobre el organista de la catedral y de la universidad Pedro Catalán (activo entre c. 1515 y 1549). Estos dos músicos que compartieron vida y espacios durante mucho tiempo en la notable urbe castellana emergen como figuras importantes del incipiente desarrollo que tuvo la música en Salamanca a principios del siglo XVI.
Former à évaluer des compétences en enseignement supérieur : un dispositif d’évaluation novateur
Authors: Michaud Nathalie , Roy Martin
Published: December 2022

Dans le cadre d’un cours existant déjà depuis quelques années, l’objectif de cette recherche développement (Harvey et Loiselle, 2009) est d’améliorer le dispositif d’évaluation qui permet de porter un jugement sur la compétence à évaluer chez de futurs enseignants. L’origine du projet provient d’un souci d’aligner de façon plus rigoureuse et cohérente la séquence enseignement – évaluation à l’intérieur du cours. Cet article vise à documenter l’élaboration du dispositif d’évaluation novateur mis en place. Les cadres de référence retenus pour développer le nouveau dispositif sont expliqués. De plus, quelques résultats obtenus à la suite de l’administration d’un questionnaire aux étudiants sont présentés quant à l’opérationnalisation du dispositif.
The Role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Global Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
Authors: Nadda Vipin
Published: December 2022

This chapter explores a framework to manage the sharing of knowledge in the higher education institutions and the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in promoting and enhancing the above purpose across several key processes and services like the research processes, teaching and learning processes, virtual learning environment, student recruitment, engagement, retention and achievement related services, administrative services and processes, and strategic planning and management as an efficient and effective tool at global level. Thus, the aim of the chapter is not only to provide an in-depth insight about various processes involved in knowledge management, but also analyse as to how well do they facilitate the creation of a conducive environment, and hence a very positive learning experience to the students in HEIs, through the culture of knowledge collaboration and sharing.
Pattern Analysis in Marine Data Classification and Recognition
Authors: Wulff Enrique
Published: December 2022

With the advent of upcoming new patterns to handle (e.g., big data and semantic annotation), to encourage research to detect and identify objects, the development of the internet of things in the ocean requires the interconnection of all equipment (sensors) to observe the oceans. By serving as a common conceptualization among these tools, marine ontologies can lead to lower costs and better flexibility in marine data recognition and classification. To that end, marine pattern analysis literature (1991-2021) is used to create a sample network of records, comprising visual and textual features that can be annotated from video and image sequences, with the underwater parameters as the target of interest. The sample is split into ontological and machine learning (ML) datasets to build a prediction of the importance of data visualization techniques. The predicted suitability is strong with data classification that belongs to the machine learning dataset. However, the initial results from the study are encouraging, because ontologies' tools are proposed as automatic reasoning mechanisms.
Information Disaster Management
Authors: Asamoah Catherine , Akussah Harry , Adams Musah
Published: December 2022

Information is one of the most valuable resources and important assets in organisations globally. Industry 5.0 has brought about a more human-centric and sustainable approach to organizations in their work output. Organizations achieve competitive advantage and make informed decisions based on the information acquired and how well such information resources are well managed. Information management helps organisations to manage their information accurately, cost-effectively, timely, accessibly, and usably. Conversely, the risks of disaster remain a peril to the management of information in public institutions. The study seeks to examine the disaster management procedures adopted by public institutions to safeguard valuable information for informed decisions, workable policies, economic growth, and sustainable development in Ghana.
Information Security Awareness Among Postgraduate Students
Authors: Kori Dayanandappa , Naik Renuka
Published: December 2022

Information security prevents unauthorized access to using, disclosing, altering, inspecting, recording, or destroying information. Information security programs are designed to achieve three main goals: confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information. The study highlights awareness and perceptions of information security among postgraduate students. To make everyone aware of the opportunities and difficulties that exist in today's threat landscape, modify risk behaviour, and develop or strengthen a secure corporate culture, information security awareness training is required to be effective. This paper aims to assess information security awareness among Postgraduates of Mangalore University. A survey was conducted, and appropriate tools and technologies were used to collect and interpret the data. Based on the results, suggestions for information security among postgraduate students were made.
Library Contributions to Achievement of Namibia Vision 2030
Authors: Nengomasha Cathrine T. , Shuumbili Teopolina Nekulilo
Published: December 2022

Namibia's Vision 2030 aspires for a knowledge-based economy supported by quality education and training systems, which in turn will provide a good quality of life for its citizens. It is a good quality of life supported by access to information in issues related to health, education, agriculture, political, and other social economic issues. The vision is driven by access to information and communication technologies (ICTs). Libraries are well placed throughout the country to train citizens in information and computer literacy, provide developmental information, and access to ICTs. Based on a review of literature, the chapter covers the types of libraries in Namibia, the legal and regulatory framework for library services, the efforts to equip libraries with ICTs infrastructure and skills, the library services, challenges encountered in service provision, and some solutions and areas for further research. Recommendations on enhancing the contribution the libraries can make in the achievement of Vision 2030 include: development of sustainability and maintenance plans.
Classification of Product Backlog Items in Agile Software Development Using Machine Learning
Authors: Ravikumar Nirubikaa , Kuhaneswaran Banujan , Saleem Adeeba , Wijeratne Ashansa Kithmini , Kumara B. T. G. S. , Herath G. A. C. A.
Published: December 2022

In agile software development, product backlog items (PBI) are used to capture the user requirements prior to the product implementation. Many types of requirements can be observed within a software project. Proper classification of PBI can positively impact the software development process. PBI can be classified into three categories: user stories, foundational stories, and spikes. After the extreme literature survey, no research was held on classifying the PBI into the categories mentioned above. This paper proposed a machine learning (ML) based approach to classify the PBI into three categories. 4,721 PBI were collected from different software projects and manually labelled into the three classes mentioned above. Then the PBI were cleaned using different pre-processing techniques. Classification models were constructed using ML techniques. The performance of each ML model was evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Support vector machine (SVM) outperformed other ML models by providing 88% accuracy.
Influence of 3D-Printable Sustainable Concrete and Industrial Waste on Industry 5.0
Authors: Uddin Md Nasir
Published: December 2022

Industry 5.0 acknowledges the construction industry's capacity to be a sustainable source of prosperity by ensuring the use of eco-friendly resources, ecologically friendly solutions, and climate-friendly practices. Innovative, eco-friendly, recyclable, bacterial, and recycled 3D-printed concrete will be an industry option for large-scale structures in the future. Additionally, industrial waste would be of innovative, sustainable aggregates and might be an upcoming material for 3D-printed concrete. Consider that humans collaborate with robots to make the building industry safe, sustainable, and cost-effective, which can fulfill the goal of Industry 5.0. New techniques, like 3D printing technology for concrete and Industry 5.0 for 3D printing in construction, are also discussed. Human-machine interaction in the construction business will be a breakthrough concept for Industry 5.0. However, deploying machine learning to solve problems in the concrete industry has proven difficult.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Optimizing Blasting Practices in Mining
Authors: Shahani Niaz Muhammad , Zheng Xigui , Wei Xin
Published: December 2022

The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed almost all sectors. It has been used to optimize operations for cost reduction, time management, and anomaly detection to reduce operational risk. Despite the emergence of hybrid AI models, the mining industry has not given significant attention. In mining, blasting is frequently used both on the surface and underground. It is considered to be the most cost-effective method. Although the efficiency of mine blasting has improved significantly over the last few decades, blasting still has some inevitable limitations. Blasting risks such as blast-induced ground vibration, flying rock, overbreak, and backbreak caused by blasting should be considered prior to the blasting design stage. Therefore, this study aims to assess the limitations and strengths of each existing AI model and to address the potential development of AI approaches in the mining industry.
Factors Affecting Big Data Adoption
Authors: Truong Nguyen Xuan
Published: December 2022

This study examined factors impacting the big data adoption of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam. The mixed method study was used. The qualitative research was applied by a group discussion with 15 participants and a cross-sectional survey with 372 representatives of SMEs. The results show that perceived benefit, simplicity, compatibility, data quality, security and privacy, vendor support, management support, financial investment, perceived usefulness, and attitudes toward adoption. This research extended the academic framework and examined causal relationships by adopting new characteristics from the integrated perspective of TOE with TAM beyond the existing research models.
The experiences of depressed pregnant women participating in a cognitive behavioral therapy program via video communication: an exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Lee Eunjoo , Kim Mijung , Park Youngsuk
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This study explored the experiences of pregnant women with depressed mood participating in a group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program using video communication, based on Beck’s cognitive theory.Methods: The participants were six pregnant women out of 13 women who had participated in an 8-session group CBT program using video communication for women with depressed mood (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression score of ≥9). Data were collected from February 20 through March 25, 2021. In-depth individual interviews were conducted through a video conferencing platform at 1 month post-baseline. Thematic analysis was done.Results: Three themes, 10 subthemes, and 38 concepts were derived from experiences of participating in the 4-week group CBT program (twice a week). The first theme, entitled “continuing realization” had subthemes of “a negative and instable self,” “a selfish judgment that excludes others,” and “a strong belief in self-control.” The second theme, entitled “attempt to change for restoration” had subthemes of “shift to rational thinking,” “freedom from suppressed beliefs,” “tolerance of other people,” and “courage for self-expression.” The third theme, entitled “departure for a positive life,” had subthemes of “emotional healing,” “faith in oneself,” and “reestablishing the criteria for happiness.”Conclusion: Pregnant women with depressed mood expressed that continuing realizations and attempts to change supported their transition toward a positive direction of healing. Thus, they were able to change their distorted thinking into rational thinking through CBT using video communication. These findings support the use of group CBT using video communication with pregnant women who have depressed mood.
The influence of eHealth literacy, reproductive health knowledge, and self-esteem on health-promoting behaviors in early adult women: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Shin Hye Sook , Song Young A
Published: December 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of eHealth literacy, reproductive health knowledge, and self-esteem on early adult women’s health-promoting behavior (HPB). This study was based on Pender’s health promotion model as a theoretical underpinning.Methods: Early adult women aged 18 to 35 years (n=165) were recruited by posting advertisements on social network sites for a student club and a faith-based community in Ansan, Korea. Willing individuals were invited to participate in the online survey from June 1 to June 30, 2022. Standardized instruments were used to measure HPB, eHealth literacy, reproductive health knowledge, and self-esteem. General characteristics included income level, perceived subjective health, and internet usage time. The collected data were analyzed using the independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and multiple regression.Results: The mean age of the respondents was 21.97±3.87 years. The total HPB score was 120.69, corresponding to a moderate level; and the total scores for eHealth literacy (30.24), knowledge of reproductive health (23.04), and self-esteem (35.62) were higher than the midpoint. The model explained 53.3% of variance in HPB, and self-esteem (β=.48, p<.001) was the most influential factor. Other influential factors were, in descending order, higher economic level, higher subjective health status, greater eHealth literacy, and less internet use time (<2 hours/day).Conclusion: In order to promote the health of early adult women, counseling or programs that positively improve self-esteem appear promising, and eHealth literacy should be considered as a way to promote HPB using information technology.
Do taegyo practices, self-esteem, and social support affect maternal-fetal attachment in high-risk pregnant women? A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Kang Da-In , Park Euna
Published: December 2022

Purpose: The incidence of high-risk pregnancies is increasing in Korea as the birth age increases due to late marriage. Maternal-fetal attachment is an important factor that affects children even after childbirth, but it is difficult for high-risk pregnant women to form maternal-fetal attachment. The current study aimed to explore whether taegyo practice (i.e., pregnant women’s efforts for fetal good growth and development), self-esteem, and social support influenced the degree of maternal-fetal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancies.Methods: The participants included 226 pregnant Korean women at ≥20 gestational weeks, hospitalized with 15 high-risk pregnancy conditions as defined by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Recruitment via convenience sampling was done at four sites in Busan, Korea. Surveys were distributed and collected from February 1 to 28, 2022. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, the t-test, one-factor analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression. Results: On average, participants were 33.97±4.23 years of age and at 31.65±6.23 gestational weeks. Preterm labor (35.4%) and gestational diabetes (21.0%) were the most common high-risk conditions. Maternal-fetal attachment was positively correlated with taegyo practice (r=.70, p<.001), self-esteem (r=.53, p<.001), and social support (r=.53, p<.001), all with statistical significance. Taegyo practice (β=.50, p<.001) and social support (β=.17, p=.030) explained 53% of variance in maternal-fetal attachment in women with high-risk pregnancies.Conclusion: Nurses caring for women with high-risk pregnancies during hospitalization can use these findings by promoting taegyo practice and enhancing social support to increase maternal-fetal attachment.
Phototherapy services for newborns with jaundice: Availability and practices in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ezeudu Chijioke E. , Osuorah Chidiebere D.I. , Iloh Ogochukwu N. , Iloh Kenechukwu K. , Onukwuli Vivian O. , Igbokwe Obianuju O. , Nwokeji–Onwe Linda , Nwaneli I.  Ezinne , Udeogu Kosisochukwu E.
Published: December 2022

Severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia remains a cause of neurologic damage in children in low-income countries. Phototherapy, which is the standard of care for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is not only necessary but an essential neonatal service that should be readily available in all health facilities with maternal and newborn services. The study describes the availability and distribution of phototherapy service in secondary health facilities in Southeast Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out in four of the largest cities in Southeast Nigeria using purposive and convenient sampling methods. A questionnaire was administered and information regarding the availability of phototherapy machines, its use and availability of personnel was obtained. A total of 77 facilities were surveyed. Fifty-five (71.4%) of the studied facilities manage jaundice in their facility. Of these, 45/55 (81.8%) use phototherapy in the management of jaundice in newborns. The most used phototherapy is Light-Emitting Diode (LED) (42.2%). Others were fluorescent (26.6%), fabricated LED (11.1%) and fabricated fluorescent (20%). Routine serum bilirubin assay was done in 60 (77.9%) facilities even though majority was done in laboratories outside the facility. Non-invasive serum bilirubin monitoring was available in only two facilities. Only 21 (47.7%) had a servicing protocol for their phototherapy machines, and just 12 (27.7%) of these services were offered by a biomedical engineer. Phototherapy use in secondary health facilities is suboptimal. There is urgent need for states health authorities to collaborate with private health facilities especially those offering maternal and child services in provision of phototherapy machines and help in the training health workers for optimal management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Rituximab for linear IgA bullous dermatosis
Authors: Dhillon Rummit , Park Lily , Gabros Sarah , Nguyen Tam , Skopit Stanley
Published: December 2022

Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis (LABD) is an idiopathic or drug-induced vesiculobullous disease typically managed with dapsone or colchicine. We report a case of LABD successfully treated with rituximab who was intolerant of first-line therapies and recalcitrant to typical immunosuppressants. The patient was initially started on prednisone and mycophenolate mofetil which resulted in minimal response and disease progression. Improvement was seen after two infusions of rituximab 1000mg at two weeks apart with planned maintenance therapy.
Urban versus rural utilization of teledermoscopy in self-skin examinations: preliminary results of a cohort study in the states of Oregon and Washington
Authors: Foltz Emilie , Witkowski Alexander , Ludzik Joanna
Published: December 2022

In this letter, we examine the application of smartphone dermoscopy in teledermatology skin cancer screenings for individuals in rural communities. There is currently a paucity of literature that examines teledermoscopy in rural areas of the United States. This is significant in consideration of the barriers posed to individuals in rural areas seeking access to dermatology care. This manuscript addresses the intersection of technology and expanding access to underserved communities − issues paramount to the future of dermatology.
Rheumatology research output in the Arab World: despite the challenges
Authors: El Hasbani G. , Jawad A.S.M. , Uthman I.
Published: December 2022

Rheumatology is a field in which diagnostic, pathophysiological, and therapeutic advancements occur daily. These developments are the result of research in basic sciences, translational sciences, and clinical sciences. Physical and financial support, provided by individuals and institutions, is essential for all types of research. The political and economic instability in the Arab world has impacted the advancement of healthcare and the output of research. This review seeks to evaluate the quantity and quality of rheumatology-related research conducted in the Arab world. This review examined the number of rheumatological clinical publications produced by Arab countries between 2017 and 2021 and cited by PubMed/MEDLINE. Publications with authors from multiple nations were disqualified. Publications were then categorized by type, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, systematic reviews, narrative reviews, and case reports. Publications were also organized according to the regions of the Arab world: North and East Africa, the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula. The review also used data from the world bank to evaluate the gross domestic product (GDP) and total population of Arabian nations in order to calculate a ratio of publications to GDP and publications to population. Egypt had the highest number of publications among north and east African countries and Arab countries in general, with 261 publications, including the highest number of RCTs, which were 23. With 81 publications, Saudi Arabia had the highest number of publications on the Arabian peninsula. However, no individual country on the Arabian peninsula published an RCT. Lebanon had the most publications in the Middle East, but the majority were reviews and case reports. Tunisia had the highest ratio of publications to GDP. Notably, the number of publications increased during the coronavirus disease 2019 era in some countries. The Arab world is still able to produce clinical rheumatology publications despite its political instability and lack of resources. The influence of such publications on the daily practice of rheumatology is still debatable.
Comment to: Disseminated cutaneous herpes simplex, COVID-19 vaccination and rheumatoid arthritis patient: a case report and review
Authors: Joob B. , Wiwanitkit V.
Published: December 2022

Not available
More than one way home - Student raters´ Impressions of interventions and group processes in mentalization based group psychotherapy and group analytic psychotherapy
Authors: Pries Johannes , Niecke Alexander , Vetter Annekatrin , Schultz-Venrath Ulrich
Published: December 2022

Abstract

Introduction

In a controlled psychotherapy outcome study comparing mentalization based treatment in groups (MBT-G) and group analytic treatment (GAP) in a day clinic, both psychodynamic group psychotherapy forms were found to be highly effective (Brand et al., 2016). But how did specific interventions and processes in both groups differ? The present article describes student raters impressions.

Methods

Twelve psychology students listened to 100 audio recordings of 90 minutes group psychotherapy sessions of GAP(Lorentzen, 2013) and MBT-G (Karterud, 2015). Each session was randomly assigned to two student raters, who were asked to write down their impressions. These rater impressions were analyzed following Mayring (1983).

Results

Group conductors in MBT-G used more questions, had short shares of speech, used group dynamics and fostered multiple perspectives on issues discussed. Affect perception was stimulated by asking questions. In GAP, conductors used more interpretations, confrontations and supportive interventions, and they had longer shares of speech; handling of affects was based on „allowing to get infected“.

Discussion

It is hypothesized that symptom reduction in both groups occured via different ways: Following Felsberger (2017), in GAP the pathic (affective contagion) function of interactions was more relevant, while in MBT-G it was the phatic (contact keeping) function. Results are also discussed in relation to previous findings on group processes and interventions.
Evaluation of stab avulsion versus subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery in the management of chronic venous insufficiency resulting from incompetent leg perforators in primary varicose veins
Authors: Jain Sudhir Kumar , Shirale (Saxena) Vaishali , Jain Maneesh Kumar , Saxena Ritu K.
Published: December 2022

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) resulting from incompetent perforators due to varicose veins is a common surgical condition present in at least 10% of the general population. This study was planned to evaluate stab avulsion vs subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery in the management of incompetent perforators resulting in CVI. Forty patients of CVI resulting from primary varicose veins, falling into class 4 to 6 as per the clinical part of CEAP classification, along with Duplex assessment with proven incompetent perforators of lower extremity, irrespective of the status of saphenousfemoral or saphenous-popliteal junction status, were included in the study. All the patients were randomized into two groups, A and B, by a computer-generated draw. Group A patients underwent stab avulsion, and group B patients underwent SEPS for incompetent perforators. The following parameters were evaluated: (i) pain score using a visual analog scale at 1 hour, 12 hours and 24 hours after surgery, (ii) ulcer healing 1 month and 3 months after surgery, (iii) reversal of skin changes after 1 month and 3 months of surgery during follow-up, and (iv) wound-related complications. Early relief of symptoms in terms of ulcer healing, reversal of skin changes, and decreased incidence of wound complications was found to be better in the subfascial endoscopic perforators surgery (SEPS) group.
Correlation of Gender and Anthropometric Measurement with Pulmonary Function Tests Among Undergraduate Medical Students
Authors: Jahan Iffat , Begum Momtaz , Sumi Sharmin Akter , Jahan Nusrat , Islam Md Zakirul , Haque Mainul
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of gender and anthropometric measurement on pulmonary functions (forced vital capacity [FVC], forced expiratory volume in 1st s [FEV1] and peak expiratory flow rate [PEFR]) of undergraduate medical students to emphasise the need for further research on the aetiology and the prevention of respiratory diseases.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Chittagong Medical College (CMC), Chattogram, Bangladesh, from July 2017 to June 2018. A total of 100 participants, aged between 18 and 20 years, studying in the 1st year in CMC, were included by a random sampling method. The participants filled out a questionnaire with general information about previous diseases, medication and family history. Fifty male participants were enrolled in the study group according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Age and body mass index matched another 50 female participants were included. Respiratory parameters such as FVC, FEV1 and PEFR were measured by a digital spirometer (Chestgraph HI-101, Japan). Readings were taken in normal upright sitting posture. The statistical tests utilised were unpaired Student's t-test and the correlation coefficient conducted using SPSS for windows version 23.

Results:

Female participants showed significantly lower FVC, FEV1 and PEFR than males. This study observed a significant positive correlation between height and weight and FVC, FEV1 and PEFR.

Conclusion:

The results of this study help assess pulmonary functions among medical students as pulmonary function tests are one of the indicators of the health status of the individuals.
To study the effectiveness of umbilical cord blood transfusion in neonates at tertiary health care centre
Authors: Mirza Shoaib Beg , Dwivedi Deepak , Yadav Shabd Singh , Bajaj Naresh
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Blood transfusions (BTs) are often required by neonates for different indications. There is usually a deficiency of available blood because of the non-availability of donors, lack of awareness, irrational demand, poor supply chain management system, etc., especially in developing countries. This study was done to determine the usefulness of umbilical cord blood (UCB) as an alternative to adult blood (AB) in neonates and to compare the change in haematological parameters after transfusion and compare outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

It was a prospective interventional study of UCB transfusions given to neonates requiring blood. UCB was collected in the labour room, under all aseptic precautions, and pretesting was done in the blood bank. Neonates fulfilling inclusion criteria were included. UCB and AB were given as per availability and consent. Post blood analysis was done after 6 h of transfusion watched for reactions. Outcomes such as death, discharge and duration of hospital stay were analysed.

Results:

A total of 91 BTs were performed, out of which 34 received UCB and 57 with AB. The mean rise of haemoglobin in UCB transfused patients was 2.01 g/dl.

Conclusions:

In neonates requiring BT, whole UCB is a good and safe alternative to whole AB.
Difficulties Encountered During Fixation of Trochanteric Fractures with Proximal Femoral Nailing
Authors: Thakur Lokesh , Dua Sunny , Raina Sunil Kumar , Awasthi Bhanu
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Proximal femoral nailing (PFN) compares favourably with dynamic hip screw in terms of surgical time, intra-operative blood loss and lag screw cut out in unstable inter-trochanteric fracture. However, data on difficulties faced during the fixation process are lacking. Therefore, the study was planned with the aim to identify difficulties encountered during fixation of trochanteric fractures with PFN in the patients.

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred patients with trochanteric fractures aimed for the operative procedure with PFN were included in the study. Patients with associated fracture of neck of femur, the shaft of the femur of the same side, with polytrauma, with multiple fractures, with pathological fractures and/or unwilling to participate in the study were excluded. Bone mineral density was evaluated using Singh's index. Fixation of trochanteric fractures was done using PFN.

Results:

More than 70% of the study participants were elderly, 53% of the participants were males, while 91% of the total participants belonged to a rural region. Hypertension was the most common comorbidity in 21% of the patients, followed by anaemia (14.5%) and diabetes (9%). 73% of the patients had grade 3 Singh's index. 53.5% of the patients had intra-trochanteric left femur while the remaining 46.5% of the patients had intra-trochanteric right femur. The reduction was the most common difficulty (26%) followed by entry point difficulty (21%) and guidewire passage (12.5%). No difficulty was observed in 29% of the patients.

Conclusion:

Achievement of good reduction between two main fragments without varus malalignment and placement of hip screw in a correct position are two important technical aspects that prevent most of the complications associated with these procedures.
Trends and Seasonal Variations in Human Secondary Sex Ratio in Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Fakorede Samson Taiwo , Ojo Stephen Damilola , Shonde Kikelomo Mercy , Adekoya Khalid Olajide , Ogunkanmi Liasu Adebayo , Oboh Bola
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Secondary sex ratio is the number of live male births per 100 female births. In humans, the primary sex ratio, which is the sex ratio at conception, is expected to be 1:1 in natural populations based on the law of independent assortment of the X and Y chromosomes. This is not the case with the sex ratio at birth as it is largely affected by various social and cultural practices that it tends to bias towards one sex, with profound implications for population and demographic dynamics.

Materials and Methods:

We collected retrospective data of records of live births from three Southwestern Nigerian states, covering 10 years. The data were obtained from different Hospitals/Birth Centres from three states, i.e., Lagos, Ondo and Osun, between 2006 and 2017. Data analysis was performed to determine the monthly, quarterly, yearly and seasonal variation in sex ratios. Chi-square analysis was used to determine the significance of differences in sex ratios at P < 0.05.

Results:

Annual average sex ratios of 99.7, 105.6 and 106.0 were obtained for Lagos, Osun and Ondo, respectively, while the pooled data had a sex ratio of 104.2, indicating male preponderance. Sex ratios differ significantly according to season. Differences in sex ratio were significant during the dry season in Lagos and Osun states and in Ondo during the rainy season.

Conclusions:

Sex ratios from Southwest Nigeria are as diverse as other populations, with ratios ranging between 99.7 and 106.0.
Determinants and Bacteria Associated with Asymptomatic Bacteriuria Among Women Attending Antenatal Care Service at Muhoza Health Centre, Rwanda
Authors: Yadufashije Callixte , Ishimwe Agnes , Mucumbitsi Joseph , Muhimpundu Liliane , Twagirumukiza Gratien , Ndayambaje Martin , Migabo Hiberte , Mwanzia Lydia
Published: December 2022

Introduction:

Asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) is a global health concern during pregnancy. It accounts for 2%–15% of pregnant women globally. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of ASB, the leading cause of ASB during pregnancy, and the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of bacteria associated with ASB.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted from September to December 2021 at Muhoza Health Centre. About 142 pregnant women without symptoms of urinary tract infections were recruited. The urine sample collected was put in a sterile Stuart plastic container and transported to INES Ruhengeri clinical microbiology for bacterial identification. The structured interview was conducted to assess factors associated with ASB among women. Logistic regression analysis was performed to test the relationship between demographic characteristics and ASB, while a Chi-square test (x
2) was performed to test for association with ASB and other determinants considered in this study.

Results:

About 70.40% of participants had ASB. Pregnant women in the second trimester (28.16%) and first trimester (25.35%) were the most affected, while women aged 24–29 (28.16%) were the most affected. Escherichia coli (27.6%) and Klebsiella pneumonia (23.8%) were the predominant isolated bacteria in the urine and was observed to be the most coloniser of the urinary tract throughout all the pregnancy trimesters. Among demographic characteristics, urban residence (P = 0.005, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.717–4.160), primary education (P < 0.00001, 95% CI = 15.390–19.310), ordinary education (P < 0.00001, 95% CI = 16.550–20.455) and advanced level education (P < 0.00001, 95% CI = 17.194–20.650) were statistically significant to contribute to ASB. Hygiene (x
2 = 6.81, P = 0.009) was significantly associated with ASB. K. pneumonia and Staphylococcus saprophyticus were the most resistant bacteria to selected antibiotics.

Conclusion:

ASB may be an epidemic in pregnancy. Early diagnosis of ASB is recommended in early pregnancy to prevent pregnancy-associated complications.
Unfolding the journey of scaffold
Authors: Jhawar Bhumika , Kujur Shirish , Gupta Vineeta , Kumari Pragya , Chanreiphy Hungyo
Published: December 2022

Periodontal tissues can be destructed by chronic periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. In support of the treatment for periodontally diseased tooth, various biomaterials have been applied starting as a contact inhibition membrane in the guided tissue regeneration that is the current gold standard in dental clinic. Recently, various biomaterials have been prepared in a form of tissue engineering scaffold to facilitate the regeneration of damaged periodontal tissues. From a physical substrate to support healing of a single type of periodontal tissue to multiphase/bioactive scaffold system to guide an integrated regeneration of periodontium, technologies for scaffold fabrication have emerged in the last years. This review covers the recent advancements in development of scaffolds designed for periodontal tissue regeneration and their efficacy tested in vitro and in vivo.
Nonabsorbable Transosseous Sutures for Lower Pole Patella Fractures
Authors: Jaiswal Sanjeev , Wankhade Ujjwal , Kharat Sagar , Gudhe Mahendra , Tarekar Sumit , Bhakare Akash
Published: December 2022

Background:

Treatment alternatives for patella fractures with the inferior pole are still being deliberated. In addition to tension-band wiring, metal implant-related complications are also not uncommon to occur in patellar fracture treatment. It is common to encounter implant-related complications such as implants failing, palpable hardware which require supplementary techniques to resolve. We evaluated participants with inferior poles of patella fracture treated with transosseous nonabsorbable sutures on functional outcomes.

Methodology:

This study encompasses observation of patients having transosseous suture fixation by no. 5 Ethibond for fixation of distal pole patella fractures. This was a longitudinal study piloted at a tertiary care center between January 2020 and June 2022. Patients' functional outcomes were assessed using the Bostman score.

Results:

The Bostman scoring system was used to evaluate the outcome at the final follow-up. In 19 patients, 7 (36.84%) patients showed outstanding and 11 (57.89%) patients showed good outcomes at the termination of 9 months follow-up. Only one patient established an unsatisfactory result.

Conclusion:

Distal pole patella fractures can be effectively fixed via transosseous suturing with unabsorbable sutures. Fast recovery and minimal implant-related complications are possible with this procedure. The resurgery rate is also significantly reduced.
Morphometric and biomechanical analysis of gracilis and semitendinosus tendons
Authors: Vineel Pulimi , Subramanian Ramesh Kumar , Muthu Kumar T
Published: December 2022

Background:

Semitendinosus and gracilis muscle tendons are among the most frequently used grafts in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructive surgery. Gracilis is also frequently used in breast reconstruction as well as in upper and lower limb reconstruction as a free graft.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 human cadaver lower limbs were studied of 30 adults (12 men and 18 women) who have been embalmed at a tertiary care institution. Those cadavers whose lower limb had undergone surgery in the past and those with concomitant pathology that would have affected the local anatomy were excluded. Gracilis and semitendinosus tendons were taken out of embalmed remains after the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues had been carefully dissected.

Results:

It was observed that the maximum load of all the semitendinosus tendons studied had a mean value of 768.2 ± 130.4 N. The semitendinosus tendon’s maximal load in males ranged from 698.4 to 1133.9 N. However in females, the semitendinosus tendon’s maximal load ranged from 589.5 to 780.0 N.

Conclusion:

The topographical and morphometric data from this study can be utilized as a database of anthropological parameters for the Semitendinosus and Gracilis muscle tendons of a population in a south Indian setting,
A rare case of malakoplakia of the urinary bladder
Authors: Yadav Pranav Raja , Singhania Piyush , Sahu Piyush
Published: December 2022

Malakoplakia (from Greek Malako “soft” + Plako “plaque”) is a rare inflammatory condition that presents as a papule, plaque, or ulceration that usually affects the genitourinary tract. The most frequently affected organ is the urinary bladder. This condition has features of granulomatous inflammation. The pathogenesis of the disease is not completely understood. It is often misdiagnosed as malignancy. In this case report, we present a case of urinary bladder malakoplakia which presented with obstructive uropathy and acute kidney injury (AKI).
The signed monodromy group of an Adinkra
Authors: Goins Edray , Iga Kevin M. , Kostiuk Jordan , Stiffler Kory
Published: December 2022

An ordering of colours in an Adinkra leads to an embedding of this Adinkra into a Riemann surface

X

, and a branched covering map

\beta_X\colon X\to\mathbb{CP}^1

. This paper shows how the dashing of edges in an Adinkra determines a signed permutation version of the monodromy group, and shows that it is isomorphic to a Salingaros Vee group.
A class of integral functionals with a $W^{1,1}_0$-minimum
Authors: Arcoya David , Boccardo Lucio
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we study the minimization of the integral functionals of the type

\int_{\Omega}\frac{|\nabla v|^2}{\big[1+B|v|\big]^{2}} + \frac12\int_{\Omega} a(x)|v|^2 - \frac1q\int_{\Omega} \rho(x)|v|^q,

where

0<B

,

0<a_0\leq a(x)\in L^1_{\mathrm{loc}}(\Omega)

,

0\not\equiv\rho^+(x)\in L^{{\frac{2}{2-q}}}(\Omega)

, and

0<q<2

. The degeneracy of the principal part of the functional implies that it is not coercive in

W_{0}^{1,2}(\Omega)

and pushes to set and solve the minimization problem in

W_{0}^{1,1}(\Omega)

instead of the space

W_{0}^{1,2}(\Omega)

. In addition, when the coefficients

a(x)

and

\rho(x)

are merely in

L^1(\Omega)

, but satisfy for some

Q>0

the condition

|\rho(x)|\leq Q a(x)

, we show the existence of a minimum of the functional which belongs to

W_{0}^{1,2}(\Omega){\cap L^\infty(\Omega)}\setminus\{0\}

.
Analysis on the Utilization of Renewable Energy for Carbon Neutralization in Sewage Treatment Facilities
Authors: Yoon Younghan , Park Jae-Hyeoung , Kang Jeong-Hee , Choi June-Seok , Park Jungsu , Kwak Phil-Jae
Published: December 2022

Domestic wastewater treatment facilities(WTF) in Korea consume a lot of energy and generate greenhouse gases in the process of treating contaminated sewage. In response to climate change and the government's carbon neutrality, measures for energy reduction in WTF is an important issue along with water quality management, and simultaneously, diversification of renewable energy based on treatment facilities is essential. The energy independence and renewable energy utilization by facility capacity were analyzed based on sewage statistics (2019) and operation data of the National Sewage Information System. The amount of energy consumed by WTF was analyzed to be 83.6 million TOE, and the renewable energy produced was 10.8 million TOE. In consequence of analysis, the energy independence of domestic WTF in Korea was 12.9%. Among renewable energy, the contribution of biogas was the highest at 83.6%, but the current status of energy independence is somewhat insufficient to energy independence plan of WTF, requiring support for alternatives and policies to produce and secure additional renewable energy. In order to increase and diversify the use of renewable energy, the integrated digestion biogas of organic waste resources, the use of cooling and heating energy based on sewage heat, and the development of salinity gradient power generation were reviewed. Based on this, it was intended to contribute to the preparation of measures to achieve carbon neutrality in sewage treatment facilities.
A Study on the Construction of Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle and Hydrogen Charging Station Supply Activation(mainly in Gyeongsangbuk-do)
Authors: Lee Dong Sub , Park Jin Su , Sim Young Seok
Published: December 2022

In order to reduce various environmental pollutants and green house gas emissions caused by the use of fossil fuels, countries around the world are making various efforts to revitalize the supply of eco-friendly vehicles such as FCEVs(fuel cell electric vehicles) and electric vehicles. As a policy to revitalize the supply of eco- friendly cars, it is pushing for purchase subsidies and tax reduction policies, and aims to supply 6.7 million fuel cell electric vehicles and 310 hydrogen charging stations by 2022. Meanwhile in order for eco-friendly cars to be activated, various policies such as subsidies, vehicle price reduction, easing various regulatory policies, and promoting incentive policies are needed, but above all, installing charging facilities is important to revitalize eco-friendly vehicles. In this study, the current status of the FCEV industry and the promotion strategy according to the supply of FCEVs were presented to revitalize the supply of the FCEVs suitable for the situation in Gyeongsangbuk-do. The first, practical hydrogen utilization measures should be prepared first in purchasing business vehicles through a plan to supply FCEVs, expand subsides to revitalize the supply of FCEVs, and secure subsidies for operation of hydrogen charging stations. The second, it is necessary to build a hydrogen production base in Gyeongsangbuk-do to expand the FCEV infrastructure, build an institutional plan to revitalize FCEVs, and reduce hydrogen costs through green hydrogen production and production base construction. The third, it is necessary to train professionals, in the hydrogen industry and promote the transformation of local people’s perception of hydrogen and hydrogen charging stations. Therefore, Gyeongsangbuk-do can secure competitiveness in the hydrogen industry by supplying FCEVs and expanding hydrogen charging stations, and contribute for forstering the hydrogen economy, a key driving force for future innovation growth and energy conversion.
Methodology for Topographic Survey of Carbon Absorption Sources in Stream Wetland Using Industrial Drone
Authors: Yoon Younghan , Yun Sang Leen
Published: December 2022

As the increase of carbon dioxide in atmospheric accelerates climate change, various efforts have been performed to reduce carbon worldwide. Recently, as the concept of green carbon stored and sequestrated through photosynthesis by land plants has been emphasized to reduce carbon content from environments, the importance of carbon absorption survey for plant groups analysis of terrestrial ecosystems such as forests and river wetlands is increasing. Carbon absorption sources in terrestrial ecosystems exist in various forms of plant, soil, and topography, and represent various carbon absorption through physical, chemical and biological reactions between each other depending on the location and height of the plant groups. In this study, an industrial RTK drone capable of taking high-resolution images was used for efficient carbon absorption survey in Damyang stream wetland. Based on the global navigation satellite system by RTK, the location could be corrected in real time, and ecosystem surveys could be conducted on the height of the terrain with RTK drone. The point cloud technique of the high-density surface model was used to analyze the three-dimensional topography of areas that are difficult to access. Using the photo survey function of the RTK drone, it is expected to play an important role in understanding the total amount of green carbon of terrestrial ecosystems and carbon circulation of the land ecosystem by enabling the creation of topographic maps of stream wetlands, and riparian vegetation with complex terrain.