bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Gender Inequality in Shonen Manga: A Cross-Sectional Study of Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto
Authors: Mun David
Published: April 2023

The Naruto series is one of the most popular manga series in history, continuing with creator Masashi Kishimoto’s sequel story Boruto. Because it is a product of both the Shonen genre and Japanese patriarchy, the series funnels problematic sexist components in its female characterizations, all targeting a young male audience. As one of the most-read manga of all time, this issue poses a great threat of cementing obsolete sexist values in the younger generation and inspiring other literature to follow suit. Thus far, significant research on the connection between Japanese culture and gender themes in the manga is lacking. Therefore, this paper aims to address this gap in research and provide for future research in identifying and quantifying sexism through character strength and roles in stories. The paper synthesizes previous literature on Japanese culture, the Shonen genre, and Kishimoto’s influences, in addition to qualitative research comparing power rankings of female and male characters in Naruto and the identification of gender roles assigned to its female characters. The paper concludes by establishing the presence of sexism in the series and calling for a more dignified characterization of its female characters in the series Boruto.
Search for Sustainable Recovery: Comparison of US & EU economic/environmental policies post-COVID-19
Authors: Bae SeongBeen , Talotta Denise , Gil Stacy
Published: April 2023

Since the Great Recession in 2008, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought upon the greatest economic instability the world had ever seen. The US GDP reduced by 19%, while the GDP in the European Union (EU) reduced by 12%. In addition, the persistent threat of climate change has highlighted the significance of planning recovery efforts that bring both economic and environmental benefits to their citizens. In particular, countries are making and encouraging investments that have environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. This paper examines the fundamental difference in approach to sustainable recovery between the U.S. and the EU. In the U.S., there is a significant lack of infrastructure in which environmental policy can be built and enforced effectively. Furthermore, funding towards sustainable recovery plans are constantly getting cut or dismissed due to the political division on environmental issues. In contrast, the European Union has spent decades, starting from The Single European Act of 1987, to build up its environmental policies and set realistic goals to be met. Compared to the US, the EU was able to pass and enact policies that help both the citizens and the environment. The US government needs to prioritize raising awareness and support for sustainable recovery effort while strengthening the Environmental Protection Agency to build a robust infrastructure.
The Relationship Between the Type of Government and Support for War: Research on Major Wars Fought Since 1965
Authors: Kim Joon Sung
Published: April 2023

Throughout the history of wars, especially during the 20th century, as wars became a national effort not only limited to the military, public support for wars has been an important factor in a government’s decision to start, continue and end a war. This paper observes major wars that were fought during the second half of the 20th century, up to contemporary times, and examines the relationships between the warring nations’ political systems, and how much support they have received from their people. The paper uses its own scale to measure both variables at play. The paper initially hypothesized that authoritarian states gain more support from their people during times of war, but eventually concluded that there is no significant correlation between the two variables.
Eichmann and Us
Authors: Tambawalla Fatema , Friedman Daniel
Published: April 2023

Is being rational, moderately reasons-responsive, normal and following the law enough to safeguard our actions from blame? Adolf Eichmann, as Hannah Arendt shows, was in possession of the above characteristics, followed the law and acted out of seemingly good motivation. Yet he managed to contribute to an unjust and immoral system, eventually leading to the deaths of millions of people. In this paper I aim to show that much like Eichmann we too, engage in various oppressive systems around us, despite being rational, normal, reasons-responsive and law abiding. We may not be actively participating in large scale genocide like him, but by driving a gas car and consuming meat or living in a society where systemic racial injustice occurs we nonetheless manage to contribute to both racism and climate change. It is evident that merely fulfilling the criteria to be held morally responsible for our actions, being in possession of good intent and being cognizant of the law are not enough to prevent us from severe moral transgression. I propose that engaging in dialogue with people outside of our immediate communities serves as an important epistemic check against which we measure our actions and enables us to criticize our own moral standards, hopefully preventing us from transgressing morally in a way similar to Eichmann’s.
Survey on the Influence of Living Environment Factors on Diagnosis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Foshan
Authors: Huang Yadan , Liu Zhenpeng
Published: April 2023

Purpose of the study: (a) investigate the relationship between the time and diagnosis of IPF and its influencing factors, (b) provide information from patients' real-life diagnostic experiences for the development of more rational diagnostic pathways and the introduction of more treatment options and technologies, and (c) improve the publics’ awareness of IPF and promote the prevention of IPF.

Methods of investigation: A questionnaire was designed to survey 37 patients with IPF in January 2022, including general information questionnaires and age, sex, time for diagnosis, etc. Ridge regression analysis was used to explore the factors influencing the length and difficulty of IPF diagnosis. In addition, 11 respiratory physicians were interviewed by online interview about the difficulty of IPF diagnosis, treatment options, and patient prognosis.

Results: The stress caused by the lack of formal diagnosis (B=0.617, p<0.001), the high cost of the diagnosis process (B=0.509, p<0.001), and the number of misdiagnoses or missed diagnoses (B=0.177, p<0.005) were significantly related to the length and difficulty of the IPF diagnosis (p<0.05).

Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for new appropriate, convenient, and economical diagnostic procedures to be developed and designed. Simultaneously, professionals should strengthen the dissemination of disease understanding among the susceptible population, improve understanding and attention to the patients' condition, and conduct more lectures on the basics of avoiding IPF to strengthen the knowledge, which can effectively improve the mental quality of the susceptible population, in conjunction with the advice given by the doctors in the interviews.
Халқаро олимпия қўмитаси фаолиятини тартибга солишда олимпия хартиясининг роли
Authors: Хаётов Анвар
Published: April 2023

Ушбу мақола Олимпия хартияси қоидаларини таҳлил қилиш асосида Халқаро Олимпия қўмитасининг халқаро оммавий ҳуқуқдаги мақомини кўриб чиқишга бағишланган. Бунда Халқаро Олимпия қўмитасининг Швейцария қонунчилиги бўйича рўйхатдан ўтган нодавлат ташкилот сифатидаги расмий мақоми, шунингдек ХОҚни халқаро ҳуқуқ субъекти сифатида тан олишга асос бўлган давлатларнинг ҳақиқий амалиёти таҳлил қилинади.
The Effect Of Safety Climate On Safety Behavior With Safety Motivation As An Intervening Variable On Contractor Workers In Pt X
Authors: Darius Tandiabang, Syamsiar S. Russeng, Lalu Muhammad Saleh
Published: April 2023

Safety climate in the workplace and safety behavior of workers are concerned in order to assess what factors are the causes of safe action on workers.  The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of safety climate on safety behavior with safety motivation as an intervening variable in contractor workers at PT X. This type of research is analytical observational with a cross sectional design. The questionnaire was given to 380 respondents.  The data were analyzed using path analysis to see the direct and indirect influence of safety climate on safety behavior. Result research shows, as many as 361 respondents (95%) with good safety climate, 367 respondents (96.9%) with good safety motivation, and as many as 348 respondents (91%) with good safety behavior. From the results of the path analysis, it was found that there was no direct influence of safety climate on safety behavior on contractor workers at PT X (p value >0.05). However, indirectly safety climate affects safety behavior through safety motivation (p value = 0.001). It is recommended to workers to continue to increase safety motivation so as   to create safe and safe work behaviors.
Emergency Obstetric Complications During Labour And Delivery Among Mothers Attending Maternity Teaching Hospital /Erbil City/ Iraq. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mryam Yaseen Yaseen
Published: April 2023

Background: Every year, over half a million women continue to lose their lives during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. Although, pregnancy and childbirth are a normal process Pregnancy can sometimes present life-threatening health problems for a mother and her baby. These problems are called obstetric emergencies. An obstetric emergency may arise at any time during pregnancy, labor and birth. This study aimed to determine the emergency obstetric complications which occurred during labor and delivery, and evaluate their associations with socio-demographic, obstetrical characteristics and fetal complications.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 women who attended the delivery room of Maternity Teaching Hospital. The tool that used was an examiners-made questionnaire, containing 3 parts: demographic characteristics, obstetrical history, and emergency obstetrical complications which occurred during labor and delivery. The data were analyzed through frequency, percentage and Chi-Square test using the SPSS statistical program.                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Results: Mean age of respondents was 30.15 years. We have found that the 39% of cases developed complication. Among the complications, most common problems:  high blood pressure, postdated delivery, bleeding before delivery, difficult labor, premature rupture of membranes and prolonged labor respectively.

Conclusions:  The burden of emergency obstetric complications during labor and delivery is high. Efforts should be made at both the community and hospital levels to increase awareness regarding emergency obstetrical problems and reduce its associated morbidity and mortality.
TURISMO E ACESSIBILIDADE: UM PASSEIO PELA RUA DO BOM JESUS - RECIFE/PE
Authors: Lustosa Milhomem Thiara , Mendonça Gomes Denise de , Silva Goes Teixeira Ana Kalina
Published: April 2023

O artigo reflete sobre a relação entre turismo e acessibilidade focalizando as pessoas com deficiência ou mobilidade reduzida (PDMR) – aí incluídas pessoas com algum tipo de deficiência sensorial ou motora, pessoas na denominada “terceira idade”, pessoas com obesidade, grávidas, pais com filhos de até cinco anos de idade e outros. Analisa as normas existentes para utilização dos ambientes públicos e privados livres de barreiras. Destaca-se as PDMR como grupo turístico com grande potencial de crescimento, desde que seja fornecida infraestrutura pública e equipamentos para o seu melhor atendimento. A rua do Bom Jesus, localizada no município de Recife/PE, é conhecida por seus patrimônios históricos e culturais. Apesar de parecer não possibilitar que todas as pessoas possam visitá-la de forma autônoma e segura em termos de acessibilidade. A investigação que originou este artigo teve como objeto reconhecer os obstáculos que prejudicam a mobilidade na Rua do Bom Jesus, em especial das pessoas com deficiência ou mobilidade reduzida. O artigo focaliza as PDMR como turistas, discutindo como está a adaptação na rua do Bom Jesus, Recife/PE para o pleno atendimento das necessidades dessas pessoas. Dentre os dados coletados na pesquisa de campo, salienta-se que os itens analisados possuem algum componente que contemple acessibilidade, mas o acesso através das vias públicas ainda é bem deficitário. Portanto, conclui-se que na Rua do Bom Jesus há ausência de ações efetivas do poder público para reduzir ou extinguir os diversos obstáculos que impedem a mobilidade físico-espacial de pessoas com deficiência ou mobilidade reduzida.
Factors Affecting Women Entrepreneurs’ Success: A Study of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises - A Review
Authors: Dsouza Ashlin , Panakaje Niyaz
Published: April 2023

Purpose: The economy has been booming drastically. Multiple studies stand as shreds of evidence for the incompetent level of entrepreneurs in modern times amongst the chauvinistic group of people showing affection towards 9 to 5 job dominance and upbringing. The study focuses on analyzing different factors contributing to the booming of business performances and studying the research gap in this context. Approach: The study focuses on understanding factors that impact business performances in the global scenario. The data and shreds of evidence are collected from different web portals, journal articles, and databases that provide relevant information, data, and facts are derived through review of related literature through gateways like ResearchGate, Scopus, Google Scholar to extract literature on scholarly articles, conference papers, journals, abstracts and much other. Through innumerable keywords, the relevant information has been collected and sorted systematically throughout the paper. The paper extends the literature review on the performance of businesses by studying the effects of variables such as digital marketing, sustainable competitive advantage, external environmental factors, internal factors, individual factors, motivation factors, corporate social responsibility, psychological factors, employee performance, entrepreneurial capacity, product quality, human capital, social capital, industrial factors, knowledge sharing practices, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, service innovation, business environment on the business performance. The study is conducted to analyze the significance and relationship between the above-mentioned factors and business performance. The current paper analyses the effectiveness of business performance. The results have been discovered through various literature reviews as the basis for the successful description of the current study of literature review on different factors that impact business performances. The reviews gathered have been dissected by relating to different theories discovered by renowned theorists. Furthermore, a conceptual review of the independent variables concerning the dependent variable has been administered for the smooth structuring of the paper. Findings/Results: The review has been successful in deriving outcomes representing factors such as digital marketing, sustainable competitive advantage, external environmental factors, internal factors, individual factors, motivation factors, corporate social responsibility, psychological factors, employee performance, entrepreneurial capacity, product quality, human capital, social capital, industrial factors, knowledge sharing practices, entrepreneurial self-efficacy, service innovation, business environment stand as strong pillars that influence the business performance. The paper mainly focuses on analyzing the modus operandi of these factors boosting business performances in the global context. Type of Paper: Literature Review
Guastavino, Marina y Pérez Winter, Cecilia (Eds.). (2022). Turismo rural, patrimonio y territorio: espacios de intercambio entre la gestión y la investigación. Buenos Aires: INTA ediciones. ISBN 978-987-679-341-4 (digital). 170 páginas.
Authors: Landini Gabriela
Published: April 2023

El turismo es, sin duda, una temática que está ganando espacio en los estudios rurales en la actualidad. Frente a la constatación de la proliferación de iniciativas de turismo rural como alternativas para la generación de ingresos complementarios a partir de la crisis que afectó al campo argentino particularmente desde la década de los noventa, un grupo de trabajo integrado por miembros de INTA y de un equipo de investigación del Instituto de Geografía de la UBA se propuso construir una instancia de diálogo interdisciplinario para poder comprender e indagar críticamente sobre cómo se dan estos procesos, quiénes participan de ellos, qué tensiones surgen en su transcurso y cuáles son los logros y limitaciones que van encontrando. Editado por Marina Guastavino y Cecilia Pérez Winter, Turismo rural, patrimonio y territorio: espacios de intercambio entre la gestión y la investigación es el resultado de los intercambios que se dieron en el marco de jornadas organizadas por este grupo.
A Consensual Qualitative Research on the Construction of Vocational Identity of Generation MZ Early Career Police Officers
Authors:   The Korean Career·Entrepreneurship & Business Association, An Yoonjung , Ban Mijung , Choi Seonhee
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the process of constructing vocational identity based on the vocational awareness and experience of early career police officers of generation MZ. This study analyzed by applying consensual qualitative research-modified(CQR-M) based on open-ended questionnaires were received from 55 generation MZ police officers up to 5 years of experience. The process of constructing vocational identity of the research participants was revealed 5 areas, 10 categories, and 33 subcategories, and the results of the study are as follows. First, the research participants longed for the police and chose their vocation for reasons such as ‘police is my dream’,‘consideration of aptitude’,‘essential part of society’. Second, after becoming police officers, the professional pride of the research participants through ‘social recognition’,‘positive feedback of gratitude for help’, and ‘joy of family’ promoted the internalization of identity, on the other hand, the professional pride gradually disappeared as they suffered emotional exhaustion from the ‘negative public opinion about police’,‘the victim of criticism of civil petitioners’,‘police universalism’, and ‘high ethical standards for the police’. Third, through job experience, the research participants made ambivalent evaluations on the unique job characteristics of police officers and the advantages and disadvantages of civil servants. They showed experience conflict with vocational identity due to difficulties in adjusting to a hierarchical organization and an uncomfortable atmosphere. Fourth, even in the process of adjustment, the research participants gained strength through ‘helper′s salvation’, and experienced the process of compromise and acceptance while realistically adjusting their vocational identities through ‘improvement of adaptability and survival strategy’. Finally, the result of reconstructing the vocational identity as a police officer is ‘happy police officers as a person’ or ‘police officers serving the people’. They were drawing an optimistic future through efforts to do their best in each context of individual life and professional role, but to take in a balance way. The significance of this study is in that it deeply analyzed the process of constructing vocational identity by applying the characteristics of the generation MZ, which has been mainly studied as a discourse, to police officers. Based on the results of the study, implications for the mutual positive development of generation MZ police officers and organizations were suggested.
A B2B2C manufacturer's IMP interaction model-based strategy for entering a big retailer: An example of SG Development with Daiso
Authors:   The Korean Career·Entrepreneurship & Business Association, Kim Jooho , Bae Tae Jun
Published: April 2023

This work extends the B2B-centric IMP interaction model to the setting of B2B-to-consumer transactions. We investigate and modify the current model components using a case study of SG Development, a startup manufacturer that joined a large store. In addition, we define the essential components and stages of the entry strategy for new producers. Our findings highlight the significance of manufacturer-retailer interactions in B2B2C transactions and offer an extended IMP interaction model that adds early customer search and response. This study contributes to B2B2C transaction research and provides practical implications for new manufacturers seeking entry into large retailers.
Cluster of Differentiation 38 Protein Significantly Adds to the Prognostic Value of Cytogenetic Risk in Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: AlKahiry Waiel M. A. , Abdelsalam Hadeel S. T. , Alhadi Abdulrahman Mohammed
Published: April 2023

Objectives: There is some controversy regarding the clinical significance of cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) protein in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). We aimed to study the prognostic value of CD38 expression in relation to the standard cytogenetic risk stratification in AML patients. Methods: In this prospective study, adult patients with AML were diagnosed based on the finding of ≥ 20% blasts in the bone marrow and the flow cytometry. The control group was selected from normal bone marrow samples examined at the same period in the lab. The CD38 expression levels were assessed by immunophenotyping the bone marrow samples of the patients prior to therapy, as well as those from the controls. Results: The subjects were N = 52 newly diagnosed adult AML patients, while n = 25 sex-and-age matched normal volunteers served as the control. The CD38 expression among AML patients ranged from 3.6% to 79.9%, significantly higher levels than in the control population (p =0.001). Positive CD38 expression was higher in AML patients with favorable cytogenetics when compared to those with intermediate and poor cytogenetics (75.0%, 57.1%, and 68.2%, respectively) (p =0.007). Median CD38 expression in AML patients was higher in the favorable cytogenetic group and lower in intermediate and poor cytogenetic groups, though lacking in significance (p =0.578). Patients with poor cytogenetic risk were associated with significantly shorter median overall survival when compared to favorable and intermediate cytogenetic risk (p =0.010). Conclusions: The expression of CD38 significantly adds to the prognostic value of cytogenetic risk stratification at diagnosis of AML patients.
Pretilachlor Poisoning: A Rare Case of Herbicide Poisoning with Neurotoxicity
Authors: Khasim Shaik , Uddesh Tanugula Sri Karan , Ravinder Reddy Kasturi
Published: April 2023

Pretilachlor poisoning in humans is an understudied area. It is widely used as a herbicide in India; hence it is of paramount importance that we understand the various clinical presentations from its toxicity. Acute oral intoxication of pretilachlor can present with neurological and gastrointestinal manifestations. This case report adds to the scant evidence on how to recognize and manage pretilachlor toxicity
Plasma Renin-guided Therapy in Patients of Primary Hypertension on Antihypertensives: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Murty MSN , Pandey Rajesh , Behera Sibeka , Jayakrishnan J , Hande Vivek , Behera Vineet
Published: April 2023

Background: Most guidelines for hypertension overlook the underlying pathophysiologic basis in deciding antihypertensives. Based on renin levels, hypertension may be classified as high-renin hypertension (HRH), low-renin hypertension (LRH), and normal-renin hypertension (NRH). The study examined the renin levels in a hypertensive population and assessed the effect of renin-guided antihypertensive management on blood pressure (BP) control. Materials and methods: This study was a single-center prospective cohort study. Subjects with primary hypertension (aged 20–60 years) on antihypertensives were included in the study. Initial BP was recorded and subsequently, all antihypertensives were discontinued. After 2 weeks, second BP was recorded and plasma renin assay (PRA) sample was collected. All patients were restarted on the previous antihypertensives and further modification of medication was performed based on their PRA. Anti V drugs, such as diuretics and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) were used in LRH while beta-blockers and antirenin drugs (Anti R drugs) were used in HRH. Results: The study included 918 patients with hypertension and 896 cases were finally analyzed. Of these patients, 287 (32.03%) had LRH (<0.51 ng/mL/hr), 412 (45.98%) had HRH (>2.64 ng/mL/hr), while 197 (21.99%) had NRH (0.51–2.64 ng/mL/hr). Renin-guided management caused significant BP reduction. In controlled BP group, the systolic BP (SBP)/diastolic BP (DBP) before and after modification were 133.83 ± 3.36/84.77 ± 3.12 and 123.87 ± 10.59/84.05 ± 1.84, respectively (p-value < 0.05). In uncontrolled BP group, the corresponding SBP/DBP were 152.17 ± 2.95/90.36 ± 5.02 and 138 ± 1.23/87.78 ± 0.84, respectively (p-value < 0.05). The number of hypertensives used in patients also reduced with reduction in patients on two, three, or four drugs. Conclusions: Renin-guided therapy is useful for improving BP control in both controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive patients and in reducing the number of antihypertensive drugs.
Comparison of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, and Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Scores to predict Mortality in Sepsis
Authors: Bhattacharya Prasanta Kumar , Murti V Subrahmanya , Jamil Md , Barman Bhupen , SR Marak Patrick
Published: April 2023

Objectives: Sepsis-3 criteria define sepsis as ≥2 points rise of Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, either from zero or a known baseline. We compared the efficacies of quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA), SOFA, and Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) scores to predict sepsis mortality. Methods: Prospective, hospital-based study was undertaken to determine the efficacies of various sepsis-scoring systems to predict mortality in sepsis. The “Sepsis-2” criteria of “severe sepsis” and “septic shock” were used as selection criteria as they correspond to “sepsis” and “septic shock” of “Sepsis-3”. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS Statistics version-16. Mortality predictions were made using receiver operator characteristic curve testing. Results: We included 122 sepsis patients diagnosed by “Sepsis-2” definition; 78.68% (n = 98) of whom met “Sepsis-3” criteria for sepsis. All-cause mortality was 50%. On univariate analysis, we found age over 60 years [odds ratio (OR) = 4.244, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.309–13.764, p = 0.016], invasive mechanical ventilation (OR = 7.0076, 95% CI = 3.053–16.0809, p<0.0001), and presence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (OR = 2.757, 95% CI = 1.0091–7.535, p = 0.048) were significant predictors of mortality. The SOFA score yielded the best result with “area under the curve” (AUC) of “receiver operating characteristic” (ROC) curve of 0.868. On comparing AUCs between these scores difference between both SOFA and qSOFA was highly significant (p < 0.0001) compared to SIRS. However, such statistical difference was not found between AUCs of SOFA and qSOFA. Conclusions: Both SOFA and qSOFA are superior prognostication tools compared to SIRS to predict sepsis mortality; SOFA being better than qSOFA.
Rivaroxaban, a New Molecule with Potential to Balance Bleeding Risk and Ischemic Events in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Adik-Pathak Lekha , Shirodkar Salil , Gupta Amit
Published: April 2023

Globally, the prevalence of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) increases with age. In India, there is a rapidly growing burden of coronary artery disease (CAD), which has become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite recommended medical therapy, patients with CCS are still at risk of ischemic events. Currently, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is recommended in the form of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor or low dose rivaroxaban in patients with stable CAD and/or peripheral artery disease (PAD). A low dose of rivaroxaban in combination with aspirin is a promising approach; however, for patients who might benefit the most, it still remains a challenge. Clinical trial data on this new drug was certainly very encouraging, with evidence from the COMPASS trial and prespecified subgroups of COMPASS trials suggesting that the addition of rivaroxaban to aspirin was associated with a significantly lower risk of ischemic events, mortality, and tolerable bleeding profile in patients with CCS and high-risk factors. This combination is cost-effective and generally well tolerated in patients with CAD and/or PAD, as well as patients with CCS and multimorbidity or high-risk populations
Simultaneous Occurrence of Chicken Pox and Herpes Zoster with Facial Nerve Palsy in Immunocompetent Patient
Authors: Bhardwaj Lalit Mohan , Borthakur Swapnav , Bhattacharyya Prabhas Chandra
Published: April 2023

Patients who earlier suffered from chicken pox may develop herpes zoster (HZ) due to reactivation in dorsal root ganglia. The occurrence of both clinical conditions at the same time is sporadic. Unusual presentation and a belligerent course are seen in immunocompromised hosts. The presence of both HZ and chicken pox in immunocompetent patients is infrequent and incoherent with the present understanding of pathogenesis. Here, we present a case of HZ involving the maxillary division of the right trigeminal nerve with simultaneous occurrence of varicella-zoster and right peripheral facial nerve palsy.
Barrett’s Esophagus: A Comparison Study between Two Cohorts of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Devadas Krishnadas , George Bony , Varghese Jijo , Hareendran Atul , Nahaz Nibin , Oommen Tharun Tom , Joseph Rathan Cyriac , Narayanan Vijay
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is a complication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is seen among 15% of GERD patients as per a population-based study by Ronkainen et al. Barrett’s has malignant potential and annual progression to carcinoma depends on the presence or absence of dysplasia. There are various risk factors for the development of BE. We compared two symptomatic cohorts of GERD patients from the same geographical area who were evaluated for the presence of Barrett’s and various factors that can contribute to Barrett’s. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study. Two GERD cohorts, one from Kottayam and the other from Trivandrum were taken. The presence of Barrett’s and the factors contributing to the development of Barrett’s were analyzed between the two groups. Since biopsy data of all patients were not available, endoscopically suspected esophageal metaplasia (ESEM) was taken as Barrett’s. Results: 415 patients were enrolled for the study (203 from Trivandrum and 212 from Kottayam). 192 females (99 from Trivandrum and 93 from Kottayam), and 223 males (104 from Trivandrum and 119 from Kottayam). Barrett’s esophagus and especially long-segment Barrett’s were significantly more common in Kottayam than Trivandrum (68 vs 22 and 36 vs 9) (p-value <0.001). Among the factors that were traditionally thought to contribute to the development of Barrett’s esophagus, age (>50 years) was not statistically significant among the two cohorts (mean age of Trivandrum was 48 years and Kottayam was 49 years). Duration of GERD symptoms was significantly more in the Trivandrum cohort compared to Kottayam (p-value <0.001). Hiatus hernia and body mass index (BMI) were more common in Kottayam. There were no statistically significant differences in erosive esophagitis and antral gastritis (%age?) between the two cohorts. Conclusion: Both Trivandrum and Kottayam belong to the same geographical area and are separated by a distance of only 150 km. The Kottayam cohort is more prone to develop distal esophageal carcinoma as the BE is more in Kottayam. This data also suggests the need for GERD registries so that high-risk population can be targeted and early intervention can lead to a decrease in the incidence of distal esophageal carcinomas.
Technology and Medical Care in India: Growth of Telehealth Awareness during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ganesh Ragul , Sinha Deb Koushik , Subbiah Arunkumar
Published: April 2023

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of telemedicine in health care delivery worldwide. However, the true success of telemedicine depends on patients’ acceptance, which in turn is decided by their interest in telemedicine. In this study, we aim to assess the population interest in telemedicine services across India during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We measured national-level public interest in “telemedicine” using terms related to telemedicine in Google Trends during the years 2019 and 2020. The relationship between population search volume for telemedicine (composite score) and the number of COVID-19 cases during the early phase of COVID-19 was analyzed. The literacy rate and relative interest in telemedicine in the states were analyzed to assess the impact of education on telemedicine interest. Results: The interest in telemedicine in the year 2020 is higher compared to the year 2019 (U = 269.5, z = –7.043, p<0.001). The search trends for telemedicine increased consistently during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The greatest search volume was seen in Andhra Pradesh. There was a strong correlation (r = 0.65, p < 0.001) between the initial increase in the number of COVID-19 cases and population-level interest in telemedicine over time. The relative interest in telemedicine for the year 2019 showed a significant direct relationship with the literacy rate (r = 0.47, p = 0.04). However, the relative interest in telemedicine for the year 2020 showed no relationship with the state’s literacy rate signifying the spread of telemedicine across literacy barriers. Conclusion: Population interest in telemedicine was higher in the year 2020 compared to the previous year and remained high even after the easing of lockdown. The COVID-19 pandemic has played an important role in increasing the Indian public’s interest in telemedicine
A Study of Role of Medical Thoracoscopy in Undiagnosed Pleural Effusion
Authors: Kapadia Vishakha , Jindal Savita , Patel Pratik , Tripathi Sanjay
Published: April 2023

Aim and objectives: To know the diagnostic yield of pleuroscopy (medical thoracoscopy) in cases of pleural effusions which remain undiagnosed after routine initial investigations. To notice the different gross pleuroscopic findings during the procedure. To observe various histopathological reports of pleural biopsy taken through medical thoracoscopy. To know the various complications of pleuroscopy in patients undergoing this procedure. Materials and methods: A total of 56 patients having undiagnosed pleural effusion were taken for study after informed written consent. All patients underwent medical thoracoscopy. The clinical, demographic, and radiological profile of patients was recorded. Gross pleuroscopic findings and histopathological reports of the pleural biopsy were noted. All patients were observed for any complications that occurred during or after the procedure. Result: Diagnostic yield of thoracoscopy in the present study was 91.07% (malignant pleural effusion 75% and tuberculous pleuritis 12.5%). Adenocarcinoma was the commonest malignancy in 60.71% of patients amongst malignant pleural effusion in the present study. Very few complications were recorded. The most common postprocedure complication was subcutaneous emphysema (12.5%) followed by pneumothorax (10.78%). Conclusion: Thoracoscopy gives excellent diagnostic yield in undiagnosed pleural effusion without major complications, and should be utilized wherever feasible.
Ulinastatin Add-on to Standard of Care in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients: A Multicenter, Retrospective Study
Authors: Mehta Yatin , Zirpe Kapil , Dixit Subhal , Ansari Abdul , Mehta Chitra , Deshmukh Abhijeet , Ambapkar Sourabh , Ambapkar Saanvi , Joshi Mukund , Joshi Ameya , Bathija Manish , Shah Mayur
Published: April 2023

Aim: To assess the impact on 30-day mortality with ulinastatin (ULI) used as add-on to standard of care (SOC) compared to SOC alone in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients requiring admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). Materials and methods: In this multicentric, retrospective study, we collected data on clinical, laboratory, and outcome parameters in patients with COVID-19. Thirty-day mortality outcome was compared among patients treated with SOC alone and ULI used as add-on to SOC. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were determined to identify the predictors of 30-day mortality. Results: Ninety-four patients were identified and enrolled in both groups with comparable baseline parameters. On univariate analysis, 30-day mortality was significantly lower in ULI plus SOC group than SOC alone group (36.2 vs 51.1%, OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.30–0.97, p = 0.040). The effect on mortality was more pronounced in patients who did not require intubation (10.9 vs 34.0%, OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.09–0.66, p = 0.006) and with early administration (within 72 hours of admission) of ULI (30.7 vs 57.9%, OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.11–0.91, p = 0.032). On multivariate analysis, only intubation predicted mortality (adjusted OR 10.13, 95% CI 3.77–27.25, p<0.0001) and the effect of ULI on survival was not significant (adjusted OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.22–1.52, p = 0.270). Conclusion: Given the limited options for COVID-19 patients treated in ICU, early administration of ULI may be helpful, especially in patients not requiring intubation to improve the outcomes. Further, a large, randomized study is warranted to confirm these findings.
A-maze of Natural Stories: Comprehension and surprisal in the Maze task
Authors: Boyce Veronica , Levy Roger
Published: April 2023

Behavioral measures of word-by-word reading time provide experimental evidence to test theories of language processing. A-maze is a recent method for measuring incremental sentence processing that can localize slowdowns related to syntactic ambiguities in individual sentences. We adapted A-maze for use on longer passages and tested it on the Natural Stories corpus. Participants were able to comprehend these longer text passages that they read via the Maze task. Moreover, the Maze task yielded useable reaction time data with word predictability effects that were linearly related to surprisal, the same pattern found with other incremental methods. Crucially, Maze reaction times show a tight relationship with properties of the current word, with little spillover of eﬀects from previous words. This superior localization is an advantage of Maze compared with other methods. Overall, we expanded the scope of experimental materials, and thus theoretical questions, that can be studied with the Maze task.
L’enseignement secondaire privé au Niger : une offre nécessaire, mais génératrice d’inégalités
Authors: Assane Igodoe Aissata , Issoufou Moussa
Published: April 2023

Le secondaire est très peu développé au Niger et moins d’un quart des enfants y sont scolarisés. L’expansion de ce cycle s’appuie en partie sur l’offre privée. C’est principalement au niveau des complexes d’enseignement secondaire, qui agrègent tous les niveaux du secondaire, que l’offre privée est la plus importante. L’analyse de la privatisation au secondaire révèle qu’elle est génératrice d’inégalités, car les établissements privés offrent de meilleures conditions d’apprentissage que les établissements publics. En raison du coût élevé de la scolarisation dans les établissements privés, cette offre principalement urbaine exclut les familles rurales. Par ailleurs, perçue comme une offre de qualité et en raison de la réussite des élèves qui y est meilleure, de plus en plus de parents consentent d’importants efforts financiers pour y inscrire leurs enfants
Les subventions publiques destinées à l’enseignement secondaire privé en Côte d’Ivoire : un facteur d’accroissement des inégalités scolaires
Authors: Goin Bi Zamblé Théodore , Koutou N’Guessan Claude
Published: April 2023

Les établissements privés pourraient constituer une opportunité de substitution pertinente pour la Côte d’Ivoire dans le sens qu’ils permettent à un plus grand nombre d’apprenant-es d’avoir accès à l’enseignement secondaire. Par le biais des subventions, le secteur privé est quasiment financé par les ressources de l’État. Le modèle économique de subventions des écoles privées par l’État participe à l’augmentation du nombre de promoteurs/trices d’établissements privés qui tirent l’essentiel de leurs ressources du secteur public. Cette orientation de la politique éducative s’est accompagnée d’un dispositif institutionnel d’encadrement, faisant du secteur privé un partenaire indispensable pour l’atteinte des objectifs de l’État en matière d’éducation. Cependant, cette politique ne permet pas de résorber totalement l’insuffisance de l’offre surtout dans les zones économiquement défavorisées où prospèrent les « écoles boutiques » encore appelées « écoles à bas coûts ». Les données ont été collectées par le biais de données secondaires issues des statistiques scolaires produites par le ministère de l’Éducation nationale et de l’Alphabétisation (MENA). Il s’agit des données relatives aux caractéristiques des établissements secondaires et des résultats au Brevet d’études du premier cycle (BEPC) pour l’année 2022. Les résultats indiquent que les offres d’éducation dans l’enseignement secondaire général présentent des inégalités dans la « fourniture » du service éducatif. Les écoles privées fonctionnant quasi exclusivement de la subvention de l’État sont de moindre qualité à tous les niveaux : infrastructures, matériels, enseignant-es qualifié-es et résultats. Cependant, les parents en raison de leur vulnérabilité économique, de leur analphabétisme, de lieux d’habitation sont contraints d’y scolariser leurs enfants.
Recurrent Epistaxis due to Bizarre Finding of Supernumerary Nasal Tooth
Authors: Zulkifli Firamir , Hossain A. B. M. Tofazzal , Sawali Halimuddin , Kabir Shaila , Delwar A. H. M. , Parash M. Tanveer Hossain , Constance Liew Sat Lin , Mohd Hayati Mohd Firdaus , Kadir Fairrul , Chowdhury M. Alamgir
Published: April 2023

A supernumerary tooth is an additional tooth that erupted more than the normal dentition. A rarer form of a supernumerary tooth is when it erupted ectopically into the nasal cavity. Since childhood, this case report describes a 32-year-old male patient with recurrent mild nasal bleeding from his left nostril. It was never investigated seriously as the bleeding was mild and infrequent. After he was recently referred to our centre, a thorough Ear, Nose, and Throat examination was done. Direct vision with Hopkins zero-degree rigid endoscope and orthopantomogram computed tomography confirmed the provisional diagnosis of a supernumerary nasal tooth. The patient was offered surgical extraction of the tooth under general anesthesia. He denied the surgery and decided to have regular follow up. He is maintaining good health without worsening the symptoms.
Nachhaltige Verstärkung mit rPET HMLS für Automobilanwendungen
Authors: Buss Thomas , Bolgiaghi Davide
Published: April 2023

Polyester-HMLS(High Modulus and Low Shrinkage)-Garn ist bekannt als das am häufigsten verwendete textile Verstärkungsmaterial in Reifen. Es ist in erster Linie für die zuverlässige Funktion des Reifens und den Fahrkomfort verantwortlich, inkl. der Aspekte Stoßfestigkeit, Steifigkeit, Rollwiderstand, weiches/hartes Fahrverhalten, Seitenführung, Fahrspurwechsel, Ermüdungsbeständigkeit bei hohen Temperaturen, Tragen des Fahrzeuggewichts, Konstanthalten der Reifendimensionen und Fahr­geräusch. Darüber hinaus sind diese Parameter u.a. mit dem Reifen­gewicht und dem Kraftstoffverbrauch verbunden. Die heutigen Polyester-HMLS-Garne für Reifenanwendungen werden zu 100 % aus fossilen Rohstoffen hergestellt. Bild 1 zeigt eine schematische Darstellung der Verwendung von Polyester HMLS in Reifen.
Textile Deichsicherung (TeD)
Authors: Schmieder Annett , Golder Markus
Published: April 2023

Der Klimawandel zeigt sich u.a. in Form von Hochwasserkatastrophen, wie zuletzt 2021 im Ahrtal, und ist besonders in Städten mit zunehmender Flächenversiegelung spürbar. Doch bevor ein Hochwasser in den Stadtkernen bemerkbar wird, können Schutzmaßnahmen insbesondere an den Deichen vorgenommen werden. An der Professur Förder- und Materialflusstechnik (FTM) an der TU Chemnitz wurde ein Forschungsvorhaben innerhalb des BMBF-Programms „Forschung für die zivile Sicherheit 2012–2017“ ausschließlich für die Sicherung von Flussdeichen durchgeführt. Im Rahmen des Projekts wurden auf Basis technischer Textilien sowie der Fördertechnik innovative Lösungen geschaffen, um somit die Sicherheit der Bürgerinnen und Bürger zu erhöhen und eine anwendungsorientierte Forschung unter Einbeziehung der Endnutzer voranzutreiben (Bild 1).
Aldi Nord baut den Einkauf um
Authors: Schulz Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2023

Aldi Nord formiert seine internationale Einkaufsorganisation neu und bestellt mit Thomas Harmuth einen weiteren Geschäftsführer. Zudem wird das Zusammenspiel zwischen Category Management und Einkauf neu justiert.
„Wir haben die Kodizes auf dem Radar“
Authors: Bender Hanno
Published: April 2023

Die Bundesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Ernährung (BLE) überwacht die Einhaltung der Regelungen gegen „unfaire Handelspraktiken in der Lebensmittellieferkette“ (UTP) wie etwa lange Zahlungsziele oder einseitige Vertragsänderungen. Die LZ sprach mit dem zuständigen Referatsleiter, David Jüntgen, über die Erfahrungen mit dem UTP-Gesetz.
Aldi ersetzt Beiersdorf durch Private Label
Authors: Klug Denise , Brändlein Philip
Published: April 2023

Aldi vollzieht einen Strategiewechsel im Angebot von Kosmetikprodukten. Der Discounter setzt nicht mehr auf den Markenhersteller Beiersdorf. Stattdessen will Aldi die Eigenmarken stärken – und global angleichen.
Henkel fokussiert sich auf die großen Marken
Authors: Brändlein Philip
Published: April 2023

Henkel hat das Portfolio aufgeräumt. Mit einem Fokus auf etablierte Namen wie Persil will der Konzern künftig wieder stärker wachsen. Kleinere Marken stehen zur Disposition.
Union mahnt Vermittlungsausschuss an
Authors: Deglow Hans-Jürgen
Published: April 2023

Die Opposition moniert beim Thema Hinweisgeberschutz Verfahrenstricks der Regierung. Die EU hat bereits eine Klage gegen Deutschland beschlossen.
Bafa schaltet digitalen Fragenkatalog frei
Authors: Bender Hanno
Published: April 2023

Die für das Lieferkettensorgfaltspflichtengesetz (LkSG) zuständige Überwachungsbehörde hat ihren Fragenkatalog online zur Verfügung gestellt. Unternehmen fordern Vereinfachungen und schauen mit Sorge nach Brüssel.
Traditionell gerührt
Authors: Morgen Elisabeth
Published: April 2023

Das Geschäft mit Speiseeis wird dominiert von großen Konzernen und Handelsmarkenherstellern. Doch in der Nische profitiert der Handel von handwerklich erzeugter Eiscreme aus der Eisdiele oder direkt vom Bauernhof. Zwei Beispiele. Elisabeth Morgen
Zutatenlieferanten mit Performance-Defiziten
Authors: Nusser Bernd
Published: April 2023

Eine Analyse von Munich Strategy zeigt: ADM Wild Europe, Crespel&Deiters, Frey+Lau, AB Enzymes, Condio und Destilla liegen im Wettbewerbsvergleich innerhalb der Food-Ingredients-Branche bei Umsatzwachstum, Ertragsquote und strategischer Aufstellung vorn.
Kartonindustrie verkleinert ihren Klima-Fußabdruck
Authors: Wenzel Horst
Published: April 2023

Mit der jüngsten Klimabilanz für ihre Erzeugnisse aus nachwachsenden Rohstoffen präsentiert sich die Faltschachtelindustrie als Vorreiter auf dem Weg zur kohlenstoffarmen Wirtschaft.
Freiwilligkeit hat Vorrang
Authors: Schirmacher Henrike
Published: April 2023

Berlin. Die Bundesregierung will die Landnutzung nachhaltiger gestalten. Nach einer Strategie aus dem Bundesumweltministerium soll dies zwar auf freiwilliger Basis geschehen. Aber der Bund plant diverse Vorkaufsrechte, um selbst gestalterisch stärker eingreifen zu können.