bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal and Spectral Properties of the Persistent Radio Source Associated with FRB 20190520B with the VLA
Authors: Zhang Xian , Yu Wenfei , Law Casey , Li Di , Chatterjee Shami , Demorest Paul , Yan Zhen , Niu Chenhui , Aggarwal Kshitij , Anna-Thomas Reshma , Burke-Spolaor Sarah , Connor Liam , Tsai Chao-Wei , Zhu Weiwei , Luo Gan
Published: December 2023

Among more than 800 known fast radio bursts (FRBs), only two, namely FRB 20121102A and FRB 20190520B, are confirmed to be associated with persistent radio sources (PRSs). Here, we report evidence of apparent temporal variability in the PRS associated with the bursting FRB 20190520B based on Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array observations taken in 2020 and 2021. Based on the analysis of the epoch-to-epoch variability of the PRS at the L, S, C, and X bands (1–12 GHz), we detected not only overall marginal variability, but also a likely radio flux decrease (σ ∼ 3.2) between the observations taken in 2020 and 2021 at 3 GHz. Assuming no spectral variation in the PRS during these observations, we found evidence for an overall broadband radio flux decrease by about 20% between the 2020 and the 2021 observations, suggesting that the PRS probably evolves on a yearly timescale. If we attribute the marginal variability at 3 GHz as intrinsic or due to scintillation, the size of the potential variable component of the PRS is constrained to be subparsec. On the other hand, the size of the PRS can be also constrained to ≳0.22 pc from the time-averaged radio spectrum and the integrated radio luminosity in the 1–12 GHz band, based on equipartition and self-absorption arguments. We discuss the potential origins of the PRS and suggest that an accreting compact object origin might be able to explain the PRS’s temporal and spectral properties. Confirmation of the variability or flux decline of the PRS will be critical for our understanding of the PRS and its relation to the bursting source.
Nigeria : Boko Haram, les chrétiens... et les autres
Authors: Pérouse de Montclos Marc-Antoine
Published: December 2023

Les violences de la secte « islamiste » Boko Haram contre les chrétiens au Nigeria pourraient laisser croire à une manifestation du « choc des civilisations ». Mais la réalité est plus complexe. Il faut prendre en compte la situation globale du pays, économiquement très hétérogène et gangréné par la corruption.
Revisiter l’institution à partir de la fragilité
Authors: Lasida Elena
Published: December 2023

La relation entre institution et fragilité est paradoxale. Pourtant, si l’on comprend la première comme base de la société, lieu où l’individu se construit avec d’autres, sa fragilité contribue à sa plasticité et à sa capacité de renouvellement. Elle corrige en particulier le danger de domination qui caractérise souvent l’institution et entraîne son rejet. L’individu peut se sentir créateur de l’institution, plutôt que sa victime.
Identité nationale et identité européenne
Authors: Castillo Monique
Published: December 2023

La confiance en soi est nécessaire à l’avenir de l’Europe. Bien qu’il soit banal de penser que la crise qui frappe l’Europe est d’ordre économique, chacun a le sentiment qu’il s’agit, bien plus profondément, d’une crise de confiance dans les institutions et dans les hommes qui les incarnent. La nature culturelle de la crise se révèle dans l’impossibilité de se ressourcer collectivement dans une même confiance en soi.
Une politique hybride de développement
Authors: de Charentenay Pierre
Published: December 2023

La notion de développement nécessite d’être repensée. Ni la transposition du modèle occidental, ni le seul appui sur les traditions locales ne sont satisfaisants. La solution semble être une position intermédiaire, « hybride », qui intègre les réalités culturelles locales, y compris religieuses, dans le cadre d’institutions étatiques fortes.
Les nouvelles figures de l'autorité
Authors: Arènes Jacques
Published: December 2023

Les instances traditionnelles d’autorité, qui étaient aussi celles de la transmission, dans la famille, l’école, la religion, le monde du travail, la politique, souffrent d’une crise de légitimité ; cependant que de nouveaux espaces sociaux se créent, de nouvelles figures d’autorité émergent.
La fin des droits de l'homme ?
Authors: Jeangène Vilmer Jean-Baptiste
Published: December 2023

Plusieurs facteurs portent à la mise en question des droits de l’homme dans le monde : progression des régimes autoritaires, affaiblissement moral de l’Occident, crise des institutions internationales, etc. Mais il apparaît à l’examen que leur prétendu déclin est plutôt une crise de croissance. La démocratie libérale et le respect des droits humains répondent davantage aux aspirations des populations. Il importe d’en faire un des critères non pas d’affichage mais de détermination de la politique étrangère de la France.
Pour un renouveau de l'Église en Europe
Authors: Marx Cardinal Reinhard , Euvé François , Enjalbert Jacques
Published: December 2023

Membre du conseil des cardinaux qui entoure le pape, l’archevêque de Munich partage ses réflexions sur le Synode, le dialogue et la collégialité dans l’Église, les relations œcuméniques, la construction européenne. Il plaide pour une présence forte de l’Église dans une société plurielle.
Des astronefs dans la littérature
Authors: Mannooretonil Agnès
Published: December 2023

La littérature de science-fiction semble victime d’une injustice durable. Ses meilleures œuvres, celles dont le génie créatif ou le caractère visionnaire est reconnu de tous, tendent à être récupérées par la littérature générale, dite « littérature blanche » par les amateurs de science-fiction. Ces deux littératures ne se situent-elles pas du même côté de la magie ?
La démocratie au Burkina Faso aux prises avec les systèmes traditionnels de gouvernance
Authors: Bado Arsène Brice
Published: December 2023

L’insurrection populaire de novembre 2014 qui mit fin au régime de Blaise Compaoré a manifesté le rôle majeur joué au Burkina Faso par les chefs traditionnels. Le cas de ce pays est emblématique mais pas unique. Il permet de réfléchir plus largement sur la relation délicate entre fonctionnement démocratique et structures traditionnelles de pouvoir en Afrique.
L’énergie contre l’alimentation
Authors: Petit Michel
Published: December 2023

La transition énergétique pose de redoutables défis. Peut-on à la fois accroître la production agricole, afin de fournir alimentation et ressources énergétiques (biocarburants), réduire la pauvreté et protéger l’environnement ? L’exemple de l’évolution du prix du maïs est significatif de la complexité des enjeux.
Église et internet
Authors: Laby Renaud
Published: December 2023

Les études sur les rapports de l’Église catholique à l’internet sont encore rares. Une étude sociologique montre une tendance à la parole « interne ». L’Église saura-t-elle profiter de ce média pour promouvoir une évangélisation en dialogue ?
Le projet d’entreprise
Authors: Segretain Philippe
Published: December 2023

L’entreprise, collectif paradoxal, est fondée par ses actionnaires mais ne crée de la richesse que parce qu’elle appartient aussi à ses salariés, son encadrement et son marché. Le projet d’entreprise peut être le récit qui décrit ce lien. À quelles conditions est-il un outil de reconnaissance des travailleurs et non un élément instrumentalisant les valeurs déclarées ?
La rencontre mondiale des mouvements populaires au Vatican
Authors: Czerny Michael , Foglizzo Paolo , Faux Jean-Marie
Published: December 2023

La rencontre des mouvements populaires « est un signe, un grand signe », a affirmé le pape en recevant leurs représentants au Vatican le 28 octobre 2014. Que recouvre l’expression « mouvements populaires » ? Comment est née l’idée de les inviter au Vatican et comment s’est passée la rencontre ? Mais surtout : ce signe, que nous fait-il découvrir de la direction dans laquelle le pape François invite l’Église et le monde à se mettre en chemin ?
François Truffaut ou des films à 40 de fièvre
Authors: Garson Charlotte
Published: December 2023

Amateur plus qu’éclairé du cinéma classique dont témoigne sa première carrière de critique, François Truffaut a fait du classicisme de Renoir, Hitchcock ou Lubitsch le tissu même de son art paradoxal, à la fois cristallin et sophistiqué. De film en en film, il a surtout offert au grand public une exploration du sentiment si intime et si violente qu’elle nécessite l’obscurité rituelle d’une salle de cinéma.
Consistent pairs of $ \mathfrak{s} $-torsion pairs in extriangulated categories with negative first extensions
Authors: Liu Limin , Liu Hongjin
Published: December 2023

As a generalization of a consistent pair of $ t $-structures on triangulated categories, we introduced the notion of a consistent pair of $ \mathfrak{s} $-torsion pairs in the extriangulated setup. Let $ (\mathcal{T}_{i}, \mathcal{F}_{i}) $ be an $ \mathfrak{s} $-torsion pair in an extriangulated category with a negative first extension for any $ i = 1, 2 $. By using the consistent pair, we gave a criterion for $ (\mathcal{T}_{1}\ast\mathcal{T}_{2}, \mathcal{F}_{1}\cap\mathcal{F}_{2}) $ to be an $ \mathfrak{s} $-torsion pair. Our results were then applied to the torsion theory induced by $ \tau $-rigid modules.
A new fractional fuzzy dispersion entropy and its application in muscle fatigue detection
Authors: Hu Baohua , Wang Yong , Mu Jingsong
Published: December 2023

Recently, fuzzy dispersion entropy (DispEn) has attracted much attention as a new nonlinear dynamics method that combines the advantages of both DispEn and fuzzy entropy. However, it suffers from limitation of insensitivity to dynamic changes. To solve this limitation, we proposed fractional fuzzy dispersion entropy (FFDispEn) based on DispEn, a novel fuzzy membership function and fractional calculus. The fuzzy membership function was defined based on the Euclidean distance between the embedding vector and dispersion pattern. Simulated signals generated by the one-dimensional (1D) logistic map were used to test the sensitivity of the proposed method to dynamic changes. Moreover, 29 subjects were recruited for an upper limb muscle fatigue experiment, during which surface electromyography (sEMG) signals of the biceps brachii muscle were recorded. Both simulated signals and sEMG signals were processed using a sliding window approach. Sample entropy (SampEn), DispEn and FFDispEn were separately used to calculate the complexity of each frame. The sensitivity of different algorithms to the muscle fatigue process was analyzed using fitting parameters through linear fitting of the complexity of each frame signal. The results showed that for simulated signals, the larger the fractional order q, the higher the sensitivity to dynamic changes. Moreover, DispEn performed poorly in the sensitivity to dynamic changes compared with FFDispEn. As for muscle fatigue detection, the FFDispEn value showed a clear declining tendency with a mean slope of −1.658 × 10−3 as muscle fatigue progresses; additionally, it was more sensitive to muscle fatigue compared with SampEn (slope: −0.4156 × 10−3) and DispEn (slope: −0.1675 × 10−3). The highest accuracy of 97.5% was achieved with the FFDispEn and support vector machine (SVM). This study provided a new useful nonlinear dynamic indicator for sEMG signal processing and muscle fatigue analysis. The proposed method may be useful for physiological and biomedical signal analysis.
Imagined Communities and Republican Recognition: The Asian Diaspora in France
Authors: Wang Jing
Published: December 2023

The largest Asian community in Europe has effectively built its public identity in France via popular presentations, the political strategies of its leaders, and those of the French authorities. Sometimes it is presented for tourist and commercial purposes as an exotic image with vague outlines and content, sometimes as a “model of integration and citizenship”, and sometimes as a cultural and economic bridge between France and Asia. This article concerns itself with three kinds of situations: the cultural and political events specific to the celebrations of the Chinese New Year; the project of the monument named “Arche de la Fraternité” replacing a traditional “Chinatown gate”; and the consequences of the health crisis on this community. Completed by a portfolio, the article closely examines how this Asian diaspora benefited from its special recognition by the French public authorities (from the left and right) during the past decades. Finally, it asks if this recognition, granted and received as a privilege, will be permanent or if it is a fragile construction, the future of which will depend on France’s domestic and international politics.
Marketing of the Healthcare System in the Light of Sources of Its Financing and Tools for Building a Competitive Advantage
Authors: Wójcik-Czerniawska Agnieszka Jadwiga , Grzymała Zbigniew
Published: December 2023

The main purpose of the chapter is to review medical systems and their financing, and to popularize these systems through various marketing tools. Within the different approaches to healthcare financing, particular attention has been given to the method of individual medical accounts. According to the authors, this method is conducive to the development of various other methods of treatment due to the availability of funds from one's own therapeutic account and the patient's personal choice of the center and treatment method. In this way, it allows the strengthening of a specific supply of medical services, including alternative treatment methods from the point of view of classical medicine.
Strategic and Positive Business Communication for Healthcare
Authors: Abdushelishvili Lela
Published: December 2023

The healthcare field is full of various challenges, such as implementing new technologies, not enough skilled workforce, stress, and anxiety. Patients' ability to communicate effectively may also be affected by their condition, medication, pain, and/or anxiety. Therefore, what is needed for the healthcare professionals is good strategic communication skills and maintaining positivity and simplicity to ensure patient safety, wellbeing, and the overall efficiency of busy healthcare organizations. Besides, serious problems may arise from poor quality communication. If professional communication skills vary in quality, then a patient's understanding of their health status may lack context, completeness, and accuracy – often causing confusion and potential harm. Communication failures in hospitals and medical practices are responsible for malpractice claims, resulting in deaths and high costs.
RDF(S) Store in Object-Relational Databases
Authors: Ma Zongmin , Li Daiyi , Lu Jiawen , Ma Ruizhe , Yan Li
Published: December 2023

The Resource Description Framework (RDF) and RDF Schema (RDFS) recommended by World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) provide a flexible model for semantically representing data on the web. With the widespread acceptance of RDF(S) (RDF and RDFS for short), a large number of RDF(S) is available. Databases play an important role in managing RDF(S). However, there are few studies on using object-relational databases to store RDF(S). In this paper, the authors propose the formal definitions of RDF(S) model and object-relational databases model. Then they introduce the approach for storing RDF(S) in object-relational databases based on the formal definitions. They implement a prototype system to demonstrate the feasibility of the approach and test the performance and semantic retention ability of this prototype system with the benchmark dataset.
The Problem of Occult Pyelonephritis: Acute Pyelonephritis in Patients Presenting Only with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms
Authors: Rehman Fazal Ur , Syed Furrukh Omair , Ali Noureen Akber , Zafar Saad Bin , Amber Tazein , Amin Imrana , Yaqub Sonia
Published: December 2023

Pyelonephritis is a prevalent diagnosis of emergency department visits. It commonly presents as flank pain and costovertebral tenderness with urinary symptoms. However, some cases occur without typical symptoms. Our study highlights the dubious presentation of pyelonephritis with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) only. This study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital, where charts and files were reviewed from January 11, 2018 to February 28, 2019 for all the patients with a diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis from medical records. In our study, 521 patients were included and 492 (94%) of the participants were suffering from pyelonephritis. Approximately 22.8% of the patients showed the absence of both flank pain and costovertebral tenderness but were diagnosed with pyelonephritis based on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Moreover, 27% of the patients reported upper urinary tract symptoms only and were diagnosed by CT or MRI findings. Out of that only 24% and 16% of the patients reported flank pain and costovertebral tenderness, respectively. Insignificant associations with pyelonephritis were found for age, gender and other comorbidities. Our study showed a significant number of patients with pyelonephritis without any upper urinary tract symptoms. Patients with LUTS should be evaluated further by imaging if they belong to the high-risk population.
Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of a Combination of Tamsulosin and Mirabegron versus Tamsulosin Alone in the Management of Overactive Bladder in Males with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms – TAME-Overactive Bladder: An Open-labeled Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Anwar Azhar , Gorka Vivek , Chahal Harmandeep Singh , Sharma Sandeep , Tandon Sunit , Singhal Naman , Narwade Pankaj Chandrakant , Chauhan Nikhil , Bansal Namita , Kaur Simran
Published: December 2023

Background:

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common condition in elderly men with coexisting benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), and it significantly impairs their quality of life (QoL).

Aim:

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of adding beta-3 adrenergic receptor agonist (mirabegron 50 mg) to tamsulosin 0.4 mg for symptomatic men with BPE and OAB symptoms (OABS).

Materials and Methods:

It was an open-labeled randomized controlled trial. Ninety men with BPE and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of more than seven with predominant OABS were enrolled for the study. A detailed history, uroflowmetry, and baseline scores, including IPSS, OABS score (OABSS), and QoL assessment, were done for each patient. After written informed consent, patients were randomized into two groups of 45 each. Group-1 received tamsulosin 0.4 mg and placebo, and Group-2 received a combination of tamsulosin 0.4 mg plus mirabegron 50 mg once daily at bedtime. Follow-up of patients was done at 2nd, 4th, and 8th weeks. Efficacy at 8 weeks was assessed using repeat history for symptoms, uroflowmetry, IPSS, OABSS, and QoL score.

Results:

After 8 weeks of therapy, collected data were compared to baseline parameters in both groups. Significant improvement with respect to OABSS (P = 0.046), IPSS (P = 0.006), and QoL (P = 0.038) was observed with combination therapy versus tamsulosin alone. There were mild adverse effects, which were self-limiting.

Conclusions:

A combination of tamsulosin with mirabegron is effective and safe in improving the OABSS, IPSS, and QoL in men with BPE who have predominant OABS.
Diagnostic Efficacy of New Xpert Ultra for Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Using Culture and Composite Reference Standard
Authors: Chaudhary Jyoti , Chawla Divjot Singh , Gupta Veenu , Singh Akashdeep , Aggarwal Manisha
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Xpert Ultra (Cepheid, USA) is recently introduced with an extra category of trace-positive results and higher sensitivity for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of Xpert Ultra for extrapulmonary samples using culture and composite reference standard (CRS) as the gold standard.

Materials and Methods:

In a 1-year (March 2021–22) prospective observational study, samples of suspected extrapulmonary TB (EPTB) patients were subjected to Ziehl–Neelsen staining, culture, and Xpert Ultra (Cepheid, Sunnyvale, CA) tests. Relevant clinical and treatment information was noted. The diagnostic accuracy of Xpert Ultra compared with culture and CRS was calculated.

Results:

Out of 1720 suspected patients of EPTB, 223 (13%), predominantly males 135 (60%), with a mean age of 41.46 ± 19.81 years, were diagnosed as TB positive following CRS criteria. The maximum cases were of pleural TB (35.4%), followed by central nervous system TB (17.9%), gastrointestinal TB (17.5%), and lymph node TB (12.1%). Of all samples, 150 (8.7%) were microbiologically confirmed, including 141 detected by Xpert ultra, 67 culture positive, and only 16 smear positive. Among the Xpert Ultra-positive samples, 35 showed trace results, including six false-positive results. Considering culture and CRS as the gold standard, the sensitivity (86.57%, 59.64%) and specificity (94.98%, 99.47%) of Xpert Ultra were calculated, respectively. Rifampicin resistance was detected in 1 (0.70%) sample.

Conclusion:

Diagnosis of EPTB is a challenge and Xpert Ultra may detect TB at a very early stage. However, it is essential to rule out false-positive results. Additional studies are needed on Xpert Ultra to interpret trace results better.
Syncope and Oropharyngeal Malignancy – An Unusual Presentation
Authors: Madhu Megha , Bhat Vadisha , Bhat Shubha P.
Published: December 2023

Head-and-neck malignancies have varied presentations with oral, nasal, and otological symptoms. Rarely does a malignancy present with syncope. We report a case of a head-and-neck malignancy presenting with syncope, posing diagnostic dilemmas in the initial stages.
Comparative Evaluation of Demineralizing Resistance over Deciduous Teeth Enamel Using Silver Diamine Fluoride and Fluoride Varnish
Authors: Dutta Arpita , Acharya Sonu , Mohanty Susant , Chandak Ankita , Sahoo Dipmalla , Acharya Sheetal
Published: December 2023

Aim:

Dental caries pose a significant concern among pediatric populations and can substantially impact a child's overall health. The application of topical fluoride in different forms has been an accurate strategy for combating decay on a global scale. The work done here aims to compare the outcomes of using topical fluoride therapy and silver diamine fluoride (SDF) on deciduous tooth enamel.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 nondecayed anterior deciduous teeth were collected from patients undergoing tooth extraction due to exfoliation or retained deciduous teeth. Following crown removal using diamond disks, the enamel samples were affixed to acrylic blocks, exposing the buccal (outer) surface. Baseline surface microhardness measurements were acquired for all enamel samples. The specimens were then randomly assigned to three groups, each comprising twenty samples: the control group (C) treated with distilled and deionized water, the fluoridated varnish group (V) treated with fluoride varnish, and the SDF group treated with SDF solution. Subsequent to exposure to pH-cycling solutions, microhardness measurements were taken again to evaluate changes in enamel hardness.

Results:

The group treated with fluoride varnish exhibited the highest mean enamel microhardness, measuring 251.80 ± 56.10. The SDF group displayed a mean enamel microhardness of 226.75 ± 60.25, while the control group (treated with distilled and deionized water) showcased the lowest mean enamel microhardness of 207.75 ± 35.19.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, this study determined that the fluoride varnish group demonstrated a more effective resistance to enamel demineralization compared to the SDF group. These findings suggest that topical fluoride therapy in the form of varnish is more successful in preventing dental caries in deciduous tooth enamel when compared to treatment with SDF.
Development and Validation of “OHL-Ortho” Measurement Tool and Causal Model of Oral Health Behavior among Adult Orthodontic Patients
Authors: Thirasupa Neeranart , Intarakamhang Ungsinun , Kasevayuth Kasekarn
Published: December 2023

Aim:

Oral health literacy (OHL) significantly influences oral health behavior (OHB) and plays a crucial role in effective oral health promotion and achieving improved outcomes. This research aims to develop a measurement tool for evaluating OHL, named “OHL-Ortho,” and OHB in orthodontic patients. Furthermore, the study explores the extended causal relationship model from OHL to OHB.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional exploratory study was conducted between February and June 2023 among Thai working-age adults undergoing fixed orthodontic appliances. Participants were randomly selected and stratified from diverse healthcare facilities. OHL and OHB questionnaires were developed and subjected to confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling were utilized to analyze data and evaluate the causal relationship between OHL and OHB.

Results:

The sample consisted of 321 participants, with an average age of 28.44 ± 7.56 years. Regarding construct validity, the 31-item OHL Scale achieved an overall Cronbach α of 0.97, with factor loadings ranging from 0.52 to 0.85. Similarly, the 14-item OHB Scale achieved an overall Cronbach α of 0.89, displaying factor loadings ranging from 0.42 to 0.64. Additionally, the causal relationship model of OHB aligned with empirical data, indicating that OHL exhibited a highly significant positive direct effect on OHB at a level of 0.01 (effect size = 0.81), explaining 66.00% of the variance in OHB.

Conclusion:

The developed scales serve as high-quality assessment tools for healthcare providers. The study underscores the significant impact of OHL on OHB among orthodontic patients.
Evaluation of Root Biomodification as an Adjunct to Platelet-Rich Fibrin Versus Amniotic Membrane and Coronally Advanced Flap in Class I and Class Ii Gingival Recession Defects
Authors: Kumar Rodda A. , Koduganti Rekha R.
Published: December 2023

Aim:

This study aimed to compare the effects of root bio modification only with coronally advanced flap (CAF; control group) versus placement of either platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) or amniotic membrane (AM) after root biomodification (test groups) using the CAF technique in class I or class II gingival recession defects. Hence, this study evaluated the role of root biomodification alone and as an adjunct with PRF or AM membrane in class I and class II gingival recessions.

Materials and Methods:

This was a randomized, parallel-arm, clinical trial conducted on 24 patients. Subjects were equally divided into three groups. Patients in group 3 (control group) were treated with CAF alone and hyaluronic acid (HA) root conditioning and those in group 2 underwent CAF with AM and HA root conditioning whereas those in group 1 underwent CAF with PRF and HA root conditioning for class I or class II gingival recessions. The clinical variables were assessed pre and 3 months and 6 months postsurgery. The visual analog scale (VAS) was assessed on the 10th and 30th day, postsurgery. Intragroup analysis was done by repeated one-way analysis of variance test followed by Bonferoni's multiple comparisons test. Intergroup comparison used repeated two-way analysis of variance test for continuous data. All P value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results:

A comparison within the groups yielded insignificant results in group 3 (control group), whereas in group 1 (PRF + HA root conditioning) the probing depth (PD) and percentage root coverage (PRC) values did not improve significantly and in group 2 (AM + HA root conditioning) the PRC values did not show significant improvement. Between the groups, however, it was observed that the test groups 1 and 2 performed better than the control group related to all the clinical parameters and the VAS scores reflected superior results in group 2.

Conclusion:

CAF was effective as a treatment modality. The test group yielded a better percentage of root coverage than the control group, though statistically insignificant.
Genetic Polymorphisms of GSTM1 and GPX1 Genes and Smoking Susceptibility in the Saudi Population
Authors: Al-Zahrani Maryam Hassan , Almutairi Nawal Marzoog
Published: December 2023

Background/Objective/Methods:

Glutathione-S-transferase Mu1 (GSTM1) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) are known antioxidant enzymes that help protect cells from the oxidative damage that occurs from smoking. This study explored the correlation between GSTM1 and GPX1 levels between a group of smokers with the GSTM1 and GPX1 genes in the Saudi population and a control group and investigated the genetic risk factors in the group of smokers.

Results:

The control and smokers’ group (n = 50; aged 22.3 ± 3.1 years; BMI 24.6 ± 5.9 kg/m
2
) were genotyped using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In comparison with the control group, the smokers’ group displayed a different genotype disruption of GSTM1 and GPX1. Carriers of the homozygous (TT) genotype of GSTM1 had more than a twofold (OR = 2.71, 95% CI = 0.10–70.79, P = 1.000) smoking risk than the carriers of the heterozygous (CT) genotype. Those with the GPX1 gene showed no risk in the control and smokers’ groups. Smokers with the TT/GG combination (homozygous for GPX1 and normal for GPX1) were identified as high risk (OR = 2.58, 95% CI = 0.096–69.341).

Conclusion:

The main outcomes showed no significant association between genetic polymorphism of the GSTM1 and GPX1 genes and cigarette smoking in the Saudi Arabian population. However, the results showed a slight decrease in the number of GSTM1 and GPX1 gene modifications among smokers.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in Jos: Prospects and perspectives
Authors: Ale Alexander Femi , Peter Solomon D. , Ismaila Bashiru O. , Misauno Michael A.
Published: December 2023

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is now done in a lot more private and public hospital settings presently in low-income countries, particularly sub-Saharan Africa. Though it is not routinely done in these centres, the percentage of cholecystectomies done laparoscopically has increased over the years. Laparoscopic surgery services were introduced at our hospital in 2011 and this retrospective study reviews our outcomes with the procedure over a 6-year period. A total of 87 cholecystectomies were done in the period under review. Forty-eight (55.2%) were laparoscopic cholecystectomies, 30 (44.8%) were open cholecystectomies, and 9 (10.3%) were mini-laparotomy cholecystectomies. There were 32 (66.7%) women and 16 (33.3%) men who had laparoscopic cholecystectomy giving a male-to-female ratio of 1:2. The mean age of the patients was 41.0 years (SD = 14.3 years). The most common indication for laparoscopic cholecystectomy was calculous cholecystitis. The most common co-morbidity was hypertension in 23 (47.9%) patients, followed by sickle cell anaemia in 10 (20.8%) patients. The operating time ranged from 70 min to 120 min with a mean of 86.6 (SD = 14.5). There were three conversions and two intra-operative complications. Twenty-five patients (52.1%) were discharged within 24 h, 16 (33.3%) within 48 h and the rest (14.6%) were discharged later. The duration of surgery had a significant association with duration of hospital stay. There was 1 mortality in our study. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers unique advantages over open such as decreased length of hospital stay and reduced wound complications. Most of the cholecystectomies in our setting are now performed laparoscopically with a low conversion rate and low incidence of bile duct injuries. Patients with sickle cell disease constitute a significant percentage of patients requiring this procedure.
Median sternotomy as a useful adjunct to anterior cervicothoracic spine decompression and fixation: A plea for its popularity among spine surgeons in West Africa
Authors: Alioke Ikechukwuka Ifeanyichukwu , Ogungbo Biodun , Otorkpa Ega , Olawoye Tunde , Obisesan Kazeem , Folajinmi Ikudaisi
Published: December 2023

Direct anterior approach to the cervicothoracic spine (C7-T4) for surgery can be challenging via a standard anterior cervical incision as a result of the important neurovascular structures crowding the cervicothoracic junction. Where indicated, median sternotomy provides improved access to this region of the spine for interventions. From the paucity of published literature in West Africa, this adjunct appears to be quite unpopular among spine surgeons in our sub-region. We report the presentation, preoperative evaluation, operative technique and outcome of treatment of a 66-year-old man with multiple myeloma affecting T1 with the same vertebral body collapse, who had full median sternotomy, anterior T1 decompression with C7-T2 Spinal fixation. Where indicated, an anterior trans-sternal approach to the cervicothoracic spine offers good exposure to T2/T3 vertebral body for decompression and instrumentation with minimal risks and morbidity. Spine surgeons in the West African subregion should utilize this important collaboration with thoracic surgeons to achieve satisfactory access to spine surgery within the thoracic cavity.
Primary orbital squamous cell carcinoma treated with definitive radiotherapy
Authors: Krishnamurthy Sapna , Ahmed Imtiaz
Published: December 2023

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arising from the orbit is a rare entity. Only a dozen of such cases are reported in the literature. Owing to its rarity, standard treatment is not defined, but most are treated with surgery. Herewith, we report the case of primary orbital SCC, in a 56-year-old female treated with radiotherapy (RT) alone, who presented with features of left-sided painful blind eye of 4 months’ duration. Clinical and imaging studies pointed to no other possible primary malignancy elsewhere in the body, and a final diagnosis of locally advanced primary orbital SCC was made. The patient was treated with intensity-modulated RT, to a total dose of 66Gy in 33 fractions and completed the treatment with good pain relief. Response assessment imaging showed a complete response to treatment. At 2-year follow-up, the patient is alive, without disease and with normal vision in the unaffected eye. To conclude, primary orbital SCC is rare and can be treated successfully with RT.
Applications of artificial intelligence-assisted retinal imaging in systemic diseases: A literature review
Authors: Al-Halafi Ali M.
Published: December 2023

The retina is a vulnerable structure that is frequently affected by different systemic conditions. The main mechanisms of systemic retinal damage are either primary insult of neurons of the retina, alterations of the local vasculature, or both. This vulnerability makes the retina an important window that reflects the severity of the preexisting systemic disorders. Therefore, current imaging techniques aim to identify early retinal changes relevant to systemic anomalies to establish anticipated diagnosis and start adequate management. Artificial intelligence (AI) has become among the highly trending technologies in the field of medicine. Its spread continues to extend to different specialties including ophthalmology. Many studies have shown the potential of this technique in assisting the screening of retinal anomalies in the context of systemic disorders. In this review, we performed extensive literature search to identify the most important studies that support the effectiveness of AI/deep learning use for diagnosing systemic disorders through retinal imaging. The utility of these technologies in the field of retina-based diagnosis of systemic conditions is highlighted.
Symptoms and signs of dry eye in children with Graves‘ ophthalmopathy
Authors: Jankauskiene Jurate , Jarusaitiene Dalia
Published: December 2023

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the tear secretion and ocular surface properties in children with Graves‘ ophthalmopathy (GO) and to compare the results with those of healthy children.

METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study. Forty-three patients with GO (Group 1) and 41 healthy children without any ocular and/or systemic disorder (Group 2) were examined clinically and underwent tests for dry eye. We performed analyses including the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer‘s test under topical anesthesia (<5 mm was abnormal), slit-lamp biomicroscopy (corneal fluorescein staining and tear breakup time (TBUT) under blue-light illumination), and fundoscopic evaluation.

RESULTS:

Dry eye symptoms and the mean OSDI score were significantly (P < 0.02) higher (15.6 ± 18.7) in patients with GO compared with controls (5.67 ± 3.6). The mean Schirmer‘s (basal tear secretion) tests value was significantly reduced in Group 1 (5.25 ± 3.1 mm) compared with Group 2 (17.1 ± 5.2), respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.005), suggesting inadequate tear production. The mean tear film breakup time in children was lower in patients with GO (8.3 ± 3.42 s,) compared with controls (13.2 ± 4.74 s), (P < 0.001) suggesting an unstable tear film. Decrease of corneal sensitivity (23.3%) was noted in patients with GO compared with controls. GO patients showed a significant increase of the frequency of corneal fluorescein staining (6.9%) in patients with GO compared with controls.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with GO had a statistically significant higher incidence of dry eye symptoms and the increase of OSDI score. Significantly lower Schirmer‘s and TBUT tests results were seen in the study group when compared with the controls. These findings may indicate a tendency for dry eye in pediatric GO patients.
Weight and sight: Association between body mass index and visual efficiency skills of university students
Authors: Gupta Aayushi , Thakur Renu
Published: December 2023

PURPOSE:

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and visual efficiency skills of university students.

METHODS:

This study adopted an analytical and descriptive methodology whereby a comprehensive screening of 385 university students was conducted. Ultimately, 116 subjects were selected to ensure judicious distribution of subjects across the four categories of BMI. These 116 subjects were subjected to visual efficiency testing parameters, as referenced from “Clinical Management of Binocular Vision,” by Scheiman and Wick.

RESULTS:

BMI and visual efficiency anomalies were observed to be correlated with statistical significance to each other as indicated by a P = 0.018 and χ
2 = 15.22. It was also observed that the obese category exhibited the highest prevalence of accommodation and vergence anomalies, followed by the underweight category, as discerned from a detailed analysis of subjects classified according to the BMI categories. These findings imply a noteworthy and potentially deleterious impact of BMI on the visual system and underscore the importance of regular screening for visual efficiency skills in individuals across various BMI categories.

CONCLUSION:

This study established a compelling association between BMI and visual efficiency skills anomalies. Consistent with prior research, the findings of this study suggest that individual with higher BMI is more prone to experiencing such anomalies.
Kinematic analysis of suryanamaskar using a smartphone application: A case study
Authors: Khairnar Sayali , Ganvir Suvarna
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Suryanamaskar involves different body positions moving from full flexion to extension & vice versa. However, it is difficult to estimate the movement in each joint with the naked eye. Hence an instrument or Artificial Intelligence (AI) technique should be tested which can quantify the amount of movement. Aim was to investigate the kinematics in each major joint of the body while performing Suryanamaskar using an AI app. A Smartphone Application – ‘Coach’s Eye’ was used to record the dynamic motion of the Suryanamaskar. Joint Angles in each position of each joint of the upper extremity, lower extremity and spine were measured. In results, the AI app could measure the movements in major joints of the body. It was concluded that the Smartphone Application – ‘Coach’s Eye’ is useful to record exact position of joint and its movements performed during the Suryanamaskar
Irreducible modules of modular Lie superalgebras and super version of the first Kac–Weisfeiler conjecture
Authors: Shu Bin
Published: December 2023

Suppose
$\mathfrak {g}=\mathfrak {g}_{\bar 0}+\mathfrak {g}_{\bar 1}$
is a finite-dimensional restricted Lie superalgebra over an algebraically closed field
$\mathbf {k}$
of characteristic
$p>2$
. In this article, we propose a conjecture for maximal dimensions of irreducible modules over the universal enveloping algebra
$U(\mathfrak {g})$
of
$\mathfrak {g}$
, as a super generalization of the celebrated first Kac–Weisfeiler conjecture. It is demonstrated that the conjecture holds for all basic classical Lie superalgebras and all completely solvable restricted Lie superalgebras. In this process, we investigate irreducible representations of solvable Lie superalgebras.
Characterization of the Disinfectant Resistance Genes qacEΔ1 and cepA in Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Gong Lin , Liu Ernan , Li Changfeng , Wang Yimei , Liang Jiansheng
Published: December 2023

The emergence and wide global spread of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates are of great concern. This multicenter study aimed to investigate the molecular characteristics of CRKP isolates from inpatients in Wuhan, China. From June 2018 to March 2019, 74 nonduplicated CRKP clinical isolates were collected from six hospitals in Wuhan. We determined the minimum inhibitory concentrations of 18 antibiotics and used real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect the presence of disinfectant resistance genes qacEΔ1 and cepA. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis was conducted to assess the genetic relatedness of isolates. Among the 74 CRKP isolates, the rates of resistance to carbapenems were high: 93.2% to ertapenem, 90.5% to imipenem, and 87.8% to meropenem. All isolates were resistant to at least one carbapenem antibiotic. Of the 74 isolates, 64.9% (48/74) were positive for qacEΔ1 and 93.2% (69/74) for cepA. QacEΔ1 and cepA were detected concomitantly in 46 isolates (62.2%), whereas only 4.1% (3/74) had no disinfectant resistance genes. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis analysis clustered the 46 CRKP strains co-producing qacEΔ1 and cepA into 15 different clonal clusters (Types A to O). The most common clonal clusters were Type C (41.3%), Type E (13.0%), and Type J (8.7%). The study showed high rates of resistance to most antibiotics and high frequency of qacEΔ1 and cepA in CRKP isolates. Specific clonal dissemination of CRKP was detected within the same hospital or between different hospitals. Therefore, medical institutions should choose and use disinfectants correctly to prevent the spread of CRKP.
Malaria Stratification Mapping in Thailand to Support Prevention of Reestablishment
Authors: Bisanzio Donal , Sudathip Prayuth , Kitchakarn Suravadee , Kanjanasuwan Jerdsuda , Gopinath Deyer , Pinyajeerapat Niparueradee , Sintasath David , Shah Jui A.
Published: December 2023

Thailand aims to eliminate malaria by 2026, with 46 of the country’s 77 provinces already verified as malaria free. However, these provinces remain susceptible to the reestablishment of indigenous transmission that would threaten the national goal. Thus, the country is prioritizing national and subnational prevention of reestablishment (POR) planning while considering the spatial heterogeneity of the remaining malaria caseload. To support POR efforts, a novel nonmodeling method produced a malaria stratification map at the tambon (subdistrict) level, incorporating malaria case data, demographic data, and environmental factors. The stratification analysis categorized 7,425 tambons into the following four risk strata: Local Transmission (2.9%), At Risk for Transmission (3.1%), High Risk for Reintroduction (2.9%), and Low Risk for Reintroduction (91.1%). The stratification map will support the national program to target malaria interventions in remaining hotspots and mitigate the risk of transmission in malaria-free areas.
Long COVID Syndrome: Clinical Presentation, Pathophysiology, Management
Authors: Cho Yoon Jeong , Kim DaeHyun
Published: December 2023

Long coronavirus disease (COVID) syndrome is persistent symptoms and complications that occurs in at least 10% of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections. Symptoms associated with long COVID can vary widely from person to person but commonly include: fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, joint pain, difficulty concentrating (brain fog), headache, loss of taste or smell, sleep disturbances, palpitations, persistent cough. Possible pathophysiologic theories are viral persistence, dysregulated immune response, autoimmune response, endothelial dysfunction, gut dysbiosis, damage to organs and tissues, neurological involvement, post-viral syndrome. Although current diagnostic and treatment options are insufficient, the management aim to alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and support recovery. The possible therapies and interventions that may be considered are symptomatic management, rehabilitation and exercise, respiratory support, cognitive and psychological support, sleep management, nutritional support, support groups and patient education, anti-inflammatory drugs, immuno-modulatory therapies. For patients enduring prolonged suffering from this long COVID syndrome, a multidisciplinary approach is essential for comprehensive management.
Strategy for Developing Dairy Farming for All-Business Cooperatives in Tandangsari, Sumedang Regency
Authors: Sumaryana Fitriana Dewi , Putra Toufiq Agung Pratomo Sugito , Hakim Abdul , Rahmat Aina Athifa
Published: December 2023

The livestock sector has proven itself to be a crisis-resistant sector. The Ministry of Agriculture stated that the total national milk demand in 2019 reached 4,332.88 thousand tons. One of the dairy cattle center areas that has developed and become the focus of the Sumedang Regency Government is Tanjungsari District. The breeders joined the Tandangsari KSU. The supply and demand for pure milk has fluctuated at KSU Tandangsari in the last five years. The problems in the dairy cattle business at KSU Tanjungsari are currently related to production factors as inputs in the development of a dairy cattle business including livestock seeds, feed availability, land as living space for livestock, livestock production facilities (procurement of equipment and maintenance of livestock production), labor (breeders), as well as the cost of production.The goal of preparing the RIP is to formulate alternative strategies for developing a dairy cattle business. By identifying strengths and weaknesses, as well as opportunities and threats based on internal and external factors that affect the dairy cattle business at KSU Tandangsari.The strategy for developing a dairy cattle business is the S-O (1) strategy. Development of cattle population to increase production, (2). Building a place (factory) for processing dairy products, W-O strategy (1). Build a cow nursery, (2). Establishing cooperation with third parties in producing processed HPT, strategy S-T (1). Increasing the quality and quantity of beef cattle, (2). Moving the location of the fresh milk business activity center (MCU), W-T strategy (1). The application of appropriate technology is increased by breeders, (2). Establish cooperation with financial institutions in capital facilities.