bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Axions from β to δ
Authors: Wilczek Frank
Published: September 2023

Axions are hypothetical particles that were originally proposed in order to explain a key feature of fundamental physics – the remarkable accuracy of time-reversal symmetry – that the standard model, as presently understood, leaves mysterious. Later, we realized that axions also have the right properties to supply the “dark matter” needed in cosmology. Here, after very briefly reviewing the plasma haloscope idea (pursued by the ALPHA collaboration) that is brightening prospects for axion detection, I sketch three other recent developments in axion physics: the possible utility of photonic crystals for axion detection, the experimental study of emergent axions–that is, degrees of freedom whose interaction with electromagnetism is axion-like – in materials, and the design of emergent axions in metamaterials.
Social Media As A Place Of False Happiness
Authors: Widari Ni Nyoman Tri Puspa , Wulanyani Ni Made Swasti
Published: September 2023

Subjective happiness is defined as a person's assessment of life which tends to be personal. Subjective happiness is often associated with false happiness shown by someone. This is consistent with the purpose of this study, which is to see the image of social media as a place of false happiness. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with respondents consisting of active social media users and have experience in building images of happiness on social media platforms with data collection procedures using literature studies and analysis of social media content as well as interviews with celebrities. The results of this study indicate that many people are lulled by pseudo-even fake happiness on social media. Authentic happiness can be generated through self-assessment and identifying and cultivating fundamental strengths that can be achieved by developing the six values, namely wisdom and knowledge, passion and passion, humanity and love, fairness, temperament, and transcendence.
Relationship between Health Locus of Control with Pain, Physical Function and Treatment Satisfaction in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors:   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, A. FAPOJUWO Oluseun ,   ofapojuwo@unilag.edu.ng, R. AKINBO Sunday ,   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria, OREKOYA David O. ,   Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
Published: September 2023

https://cloud.uoradea.ro/index.php/s/5dRyx4sAkP88fqe
Effect of the Turkish Strategy Game Mangala on Cognitive Functions in Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors:   Mus Alparslan University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Mus, Türkiye, DENGIZ Aziz ,   ptazizdengiz@gmail.com, ETISLI-KORKMAZ Nilufer ,   Pamukkale University, Faculty of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Denizli, Türkiye, KITIS Aysegul ,   Denizli Elderly Care and Rehabilitation Center, Denizli, Türkiye
Published: September 2023

"Cognitive impairment is a common symptom of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Memory loss, difficulty completing familiar tasks, problems with language, disorientation to time and place, poor judgment, problems with abstract thinking, misplacing things, changes in mood and personality, and loss of initiative are some of the common symptoms of cognitive impairment in individuals with AD. This study aimed to examine the effect of the Turkish intelligence and strategy game Mangala on cognitive functions in individuals with AD. Material and Methods: Individuals with AD residing in the Denizli Elderly Care and Rehabilitation Center were included in this study. In addition to the demographic characteristics, the level of anxiety and general cognitive functions were assessed with Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HAD) and Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), respectively. Both the treatment and control groups had daily physiotherapy and rehabilitation sessions. Results: The mean age of the treatment (n=6) and control (n=6) group were 81.16±9.49 and 80±3.85 years. There was no significant difference between the groups before treatment(p>0.05). MoCA values improved significantly in the treatment group (p<0.05), and there was no significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). Discussions: According to the findings of our research, which examined the impact of Mangala on cognitive functions in individuals diagnosed with AD, it was observed that playing Mangala resulted in significant improvements in their cognitive abilities. In preventing cognitive decline in patients with AD, keeping the neural connections in the brain strong is needed. Games such as Mangala may play an important role in maintaining strong connections among these cognitive functions. Conclusions: Games, such as the Turkish intelligence and strategy game Mangala, that are easy-to-play, entertaining, and adaptable for patients with AD challenge working memory and mental agility, could be part of the rehabilitation plan for clinical practitioners working in this field."
Analisis Experiential Marketing, Kepercayaan Merek dan Harga Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Produk Cat Jotun pada CV. Asia Maju Rantauprapat
Authors: Ritonga Mulkan , Rahma Muti'ah
Published: September 2023

The purchase decision is the main goal or purpose of selling a product. This study aims to analyze the influence of marketing experience, price and brand trust on purchasing decisions. This study was conducted using a descriptive quantitative research method with data collection using a research tool in the form of questionnaires distributed directly to respondents. The subjects of this study include consumers who purchased Jotun brand paint products from CV. Asia Maju Rantauprapat during the period specified by the author. Determining the sample size used the purposive sampling technique with a total of 65 consumers. To analyze and analyze the research data, it was carried out using the computer program SPSS version 20 with instrumental testing, classical hypothesis testing, multiple regression analysis and hypothesis testing. Research results show that marketing experience, price and brand trust have a positive and significant impact on purchasing decisions. At the same time, marketing experience, price and brand trust have a positive and significant impact on purchase decisions with a contribution of 0.888 or 88.80% and the remaining 11.20% is influenced by other factors. Other factors were not considered in this study.
Entrepreneurial Education on Adult Learners’ Motives for Creativity in Higher Learning Institutions: A Case Study of the Institute of Adult Education
Authors: Kabung'a Mbowe
Published: September 2023

This study intended to evaluate the motives for creativity, among the adult learners’ in relation to entrepreneurial education in higher learning institutions using the Institute of Adult Education (IAE) in Tanzania as a case study. This quantitative study had applied a questionnaire survey with both closed and open-ended questions to collect primary data from a randomly selected sample of 170 respondents drawn from a study population of 291 IAE learners. With the help of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20, the study analysed the resultant quantitative data using t-test, descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficient test. The study found statistically significant differences between gender motives for creativity among adult learners resulting from the entrepreneurial education taught. Two- thirds of intrinsic components studied favoured female learners. Moreover, the study found statistically significance correlation between motives for creativity and adult learners’ perceptions in family background on entrepreneurial venture formation (M= 1.66, s = 1.728) and (M = 1.62, s = 1.505) for male and female respectively, t (168) = -0.877, p= 0.0421, α = 0.05 (p < 0.05). The study indicates a strong positive correlation between the interest of an adult learner in the entrepreneurship education taught and family background (Father and Mother) in venture formation, which was statistically significant at p < .001 (r = .685, n = 170, p = .000) and p< .001 (r = .699, n = 170, p = .000), respectively. On the other hand, the study found weak and insignificant correlations between motives for creativity (satisfying and enjoying) and family background in venture formation; instead, perception of an adult learners accounted for such a drive. The results finally indicated that the energetic group was of those aged 31-39, who were highly motivated by the entrepreneurial education taught as alternative to employment. Thus, the study recommended that entrepreneurship education must nurture and inculcate in adult learners a sense of creativity through practical and exposure to the famous and successful entrepreneurs during the course module to develop and strengthened interest, satisfaction and enjoyment.
Peran Pengasuh dalam Pembinaan Moral Santri melalui Peraturan Asrama di SMP Islam Integral Luqman Al-Hakim 02 (Islamic Boarding School Batam) Tahun Pelajaran 2018/2019
Authors: Hariyanto Hariyanto
Published: September 2023

Tulisan ini merupakan hasil penelitian penulis terhadap perkembangan pendidikan disebuah pondok pesantren. Latar belakang penelitian ini adalah Dalam perkembangan pendidikan di pondok pesantren dipengaruhi oleh dinamika pendidikan yang ada di masyarakat. Oleh karena itu peran pengasuh sangat dibutuhkan dalam membantu pembentukan moral santri di SMP Hidayatullah Boarding School Batam. Untuk itu dalam menghadapi dahsyatnya gelombang budaya dan peradaban yang tidak sesuai dengan nilai-nilai ajaran agama, maka dalam hal ini lembaga pesantrenlah sebagai alternatif pertahanan yang kokoh. Nilai-nilai moralitas yang diajarkan di pesantren memiliki pengaruh  positif terhadap perkembangan moral santri. Adapun yang menjadi titik fokus masalah dalam penelitian ini adalah Bagaimana peran pengasuh dalam pembinaan moral santri melalui peraturan asrama di Hidayatullah Boarding School Batam.

Sehngga pada tulisan ini hendaknya dapat menunjukkan: (1) Peran Pengasuh Dalam Pembinaan Moral Santri Melalui Peraturan Asrama di Hidayatullah Boarding School Batam: peran pengasuh sebagai supervise, peran pengasuh sebagai kontrolling, peran pengasuh dalam menjalankan sistem, peran pengasuh sebagai pembina, peran pengasuh sebagai motivator, peran pengasuh sebagai penasehat. (2) Peraturan Asrama SMP Hidayatullah Boarding School Batam: disiplin ibadah, peraturan keamana, peraturan kebersihan, dan belajar malam.
Study of thrombopoietin levels in some Egyptian patients with chronic liver diseases secondary to the hepatitis C virus
Authors: Ezzat Enayat O. , Suliman Somayh E. , El-Yazeed Samiha Abo , Ahmad Fatma M. , Said Sahar K.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease (CLD), cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as the most common indication for liver transplantation in many countries.

Purpose

This work was carried out to study of thrombopoietin (TPO) level in Egyptian patients with chronic hepatitis C and liver cirrhosis with HCV.

Patients and methods

This work was conducted on 40 patients proved to have chronic liver disease due to chronic HCV infection by positive HCV antibody by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, PCR for HCV RNA, abdominal ultrasonography, and histopathological examination. Twenty of these patients had chronic active hepatitis C (CAH) and the other 20 patietns had liver cirrhosis. Fifteen apparently healthy individuals (negative for HCV antibody) were included in a control group. None of the patients had received interferon therapy. Patients with other causes of CLD, chronic renal disease, diabetes, endocrinal hematological, and other debilitating diseases were excluded. All the patients studied were subjected to the following: complete medical history, full clinical examination, laboratory investigations including complete blood picture, liver function tests, fasting blood sugar, 2 h postprandial, HCV antibody and PCR for RNA of HCV; serum TPO level, abdominal ultrasonography, and liver biopsy for histopathological examination.

Results

Our results showed a highly significant reduction in the platelet count in patients with CAH (192.55 ± 41.02) and cirrhotic patients (159.800 ± 86.189) in comparison with (322.67 ± 38.12) the control group (P < 0.01). There was nonsignificant increase in TPO in patients with CAH (115.93 ± 71.66) and a significant decrease in TPO in cirrhotic patients (77.504 ± 64.576) in comparison with (107.98 ± 52.53) the control group. In the cirrhotic patients, there was a significant positive correlation between TPO and platelet count, whereas there was no correlation between TPO level and liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase) in all patients. In addition, a significant decrease in TPO was found in cirrhotic patients in comparison with CAH patients.

Conclusion

Serum TPO level was elevated in patients with chronic viral C hepatitis as a compensatory response to the reduction of platelet count with still functionally active liver cells, but as the disease progress to cirrhosis which also is associated with thrombocytopenia, TPO production is impaired, with failure to compensate the low platelet count aggravating thrombocytopenia.
Cardiovascular changes in dipper and nondipper hypertension in perimenopausal women: time-dependent effects of antihypertensives
Authors: Refaie Wael Ragheb , Refaie Ehsan , Abd El Hady Nagy , Tantawy Salah , Elewa Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Background

The lack of a decrease in nocturnal blood pressure to up to 10% of the daytime measure is termed as nondipper (ND) hypertension. It is a cardiovascular (CV) risk factor with increased CV morbidity and accelerated target organ damage especially in women. The beneficial effect of restoring the ND state by administering antihypertensives (chronotherapy) at bedtime rather than on awakening is still debated.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the extent of ND hypertension and the magnitude of CV morbidities among perimenopausal women in comparison with an identical dipper group. The study also intended to determine the administration time-dependent effect on the ND state.

Study design

The study included a cross-sectional part and a prospective randomized part.

Patients and methods

One hundred and thirty perimenopausal women who were not known to be hypertensive, with an office blood pressure repeatedly exceeding 140/90mmHg were included. After obtaining informed consents, complete history was taken and clinical examination was carried out. The included patients underwent 12-lead ECG and echocardiography, and the carotid intima–media thickness was measured. Besides the routine urine and blood analysis, analyses to obtain levels of lipids, HbA1-c, serum thyroid stimulating hormone, coagulation factors (factor VIII, fibrinogen), urinary albumin excretion, and C reactive protein were also carried out. Ambulatory blood pressure of all patients on a nonworking day was monitored. The studied patients were classified as dippers and NDs. The ND patients were randomly assigned to treatment with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Half of the ND patients received their dosage at bedtime and the others received the same dosage on awakening for 6 months, after which the ambulatory blood pressure was remeasured.

Results

ND hypertension was detected in 61.5% of patients, its occurrence being significantly higher among women with hot flashes, those with postural hypotension, obese women, and among women with elevated HbA1-c, fibrinogen, cholesterol, C reactive protein and urinary albumin excretion levels. There was significant prolongation of the QTc interval and QT dispersion with a significant increase in the interventricular septal dimension and carotid artery intima-media thickness in the ND group. Disappearance of the ND phenomenon occurred in 80% of patients receiving therapy with ARBs at bedtime.

Conclusion

ND hypertension is common among perimenopausal women, especially those with hot flashes, postural hypotension, and higher BMIs and HbA1-c levels, and is associated with many CV risk factors. Chronotherapy with ARBs at bedtime is more efficient in restoring the circadian rhythm of blood pressure compared with that on awakening.
Double-chambered left ventricle
Authors: Ali Islam F.H. , Tohamy Khalid Y. , Akbar Mousa
Published: September 2023

We describe a rare congenital anomaly in a 39-year-old woman who was referred for a preoperative echocardiographic assessment in February 2012. A double-chambered left ventricle was suspected on transthoracic echocardiography and was confirmed by transesophageal echocardiography.
Apolipoprotein B level and diabetic microvascular complications: is there a correlation?
Authors: Rizk Mary N. , Aly Hala , Samir Pierre , Mofty Hala el , Allah Osama K.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Dyslipidemia has long been implicated in diabetic complications. However, many subgroups have been considered to be responsible. Furthermore, a cause and effect relationship has long been debated. Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is an exact measure of the total number of very low-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein particles; thus, total plasma Apo B is a reliable surrogate for actual low-density lipoprotein particle number irrespective of its size. Hence, it is a better indicator of the correlation between dyslipidemia and diabetic microvascular complications.

Aim of the work

Our aim is to study the correlation between Apo B and diabetic microvascular complications, namely, nephropathy and retinopathy.

Materials and methods

A cross sectional study was carried out of 56 diabetic patients, 36 men and 20 women, both type 1 and 2, who were chosen randomly from the outpatient Endocrinology Clinic in Cairo University. Serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, urine albumin/ creatinine ratio (A/C ratio), and Apo B levels were determined. Groups were divided according to the A/C ratio as follows: no proteinuria (A/C ratio<30mg/g), incipient proteinuria (30–300mg/g), and overt proteinuria (>300mg/g). We performed fundus examination as well as fluorescein angiography in patients with retinopathy. Patients on dialysis, HBA1c more than 7.5, on lipid-lowering treatment, or with familial hyperlipidemia were excluded. Calculations were carried out using the SPSS v.10 statistical software.

Results

We found a significant positive correlation between Apo B levels and microvascular complications. Apo B was higher with overt nephropathy than incipient nephropathy (1.75 ±0.38), and higher in patients with incipient nephropathy (1.4± 0.48) than in patients without nephropathy (1.02 ± 0.34, P<0.01).

A highly significant correlation was detected between the grades of retinopathy and the Apo B level. Finally, a significant positive correlation was detected between the presence of maculopathy and Apo B. Apo B levels were significantly higher in the presence of both nephropathy and retinopathy (1.26 ± 0.389) than in the absence of both complications (0.77± 0.361, P<0.05).

Conclusion

Apo B levels are strongly correlated to diabetic microvascular complications. The higher the degree of nephropathy, the higher the Apo B level. The presence of more than one microvascular complication correlates positively with high levels of Apo B. This suggests the possible use of Apo B as a sensitive biomarker of the presence of early diabetic microvascular complications.
Assessing speech intelligibility in a group of Egyptian dysarthric patients
Authors: Refai Mohamed Sadek , Aziz Azza Adel , Osman Dalia Mostafa , El-Shafee Shahinaz Farag
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Background

Improving speech intelligibility in dysarthric patients is considered the primary goal of therapeutic intervention.

Aim

This study aimed at examining factors affecting speech intelligibility in four Arabic-speaking dysarthric groups using perceptual and instrumental techniques in order to gain a better understanding of the important factors contributing to reduced speech clarity in these patients.

Methods and procedures

Participants included 30 male Egyptian dysarthric patients (patient group) and 30 male age-matched healthy individuals (control group). The patient group was subdivided–on the basis of the neurological examination and investigation that had been carried out previously at the Neurology Department, Kasr el Aini Hospital–into four subgroups; spastic, ataxic, flaccid, and hypokinetic (having Parkinsonism). Speech samples consisting of spontaneous speech and a standard reading passage (that the participants were asked to repeat after the assessor) were used to obtain the following variables: speech rate (number of words per minute), Speech Intelligibility Score, number of nonintelligible words per minute, dysphonia grade, percent of consonants correct, percent of vowels correct, Nasalance Score, fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, harmonic-to-noise ratio, duration of /a/, first and second formant frequency values for three corner vowels /a/, /i/, and /u/, voice onset time of /b/, /t/, /k/, stop gap of /t/, /t/, /d/, /d/, and duration of /s/ and /∫/. The study examined the differences between the healthy control group and the different dysarthric groups for each variable as well as the correlation between speech intelligibility and each variable within each dysarthric subgroup.

Outcomes and results

The Speech Intelligibility Score was the highest for flaccid dysarthria and the lowest for ataxic. Results revealed significant differences between the control group and each of the patient groups studied for all subjective measures as well as most of the instrumental measures that were included in the study. A significant positive correlation was found between speech rate and speech intelligibility in patients with ataxic and flaccid dysarthria. However, a negative correlation was found between speech rate and speech intelligibility in patients with hypokinetic dysarthria. A significant negative correlation was found between speech intelligibility and jitter, F1 and F2 of /u/, stop gap of /t/, /t/, /d/, and /d/, and /s/ duration in spastic, ataxic, and flaccid groups. In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between shimmer and speech intelligibility in the ataxic group and between Nasalance Score and speech intelligibility in the flaccid group.

Conclusion and implications

Factors contributing to reduced speech intelligibility vary from one type of dysarthria to the other.
Clinical evaluation of central auditory processing functions in the elderly
Authors: Hamada Soha Mohamed , El Sebie Besher Amal , Omara Abir Abdel Moneim , Latif Salwa Mahmoud Abdel
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Background

Central auditory processing dysfunction is a general term that is applied to individuals whose hearing in quiet settings is normal or almost normal, and yet who have substantial hearing difficulty in the presence of auditory stressors such as competing noise and other difficult hearing situations. It is noticed that the prevalence of central auditory processing dysfunction increases with age.

Objectives

Evaluation of the effects of aging on central auditory processing in elderly individuals who report good hearing sensitivity.

Methodology

Thirty elderly individuals ranging in age from 60 to 75 years, right-handed, and who reported good hearing sensitivity participated in this study. The results of the synthetic sentence identification with an ipsilateral competitive message (SSI–ICM) and staggered spondee words (SSW) tests were compared with those of 15 young adults ranging in age from 20 to 40 years with normal hearing sensitivity as a control group.

Results

The findings of the study showed a statistically significant difference between the control group and the elderly group in terms of SSI, with a lower percentage in the elderly group. The results of the SSW test showed that there was a significant difference in scoring between competing and noncompeting conditions, with more affection in the competing condition in both the control and the elderly groups. When we compared the control group and the elderly group in terms of the SSW error score in the competing condition in both ears, it was found that there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups, with more error scores in the elderly group.

Conclusion

Central auditory processing is affected by aging as shown by the lower percentage of results of the SSI–ICM test and more errors in the SSW test mainly in the competing conditions relative to the control group.
Is an intratympanic injection of corticosteroids effective in the treatment of otitis media with effusion?
Authors: Reda Ramez , Wageh Wael , Sabry Ramez , Abdelmonem Mohamed Sherif A.
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Objectives

Chronic otitis media with effusion (OME) is a worldwide major health problem for both children and adults. The aim of this study is to test the effectiveness of intratympanic injection of corticosteroid in the treatment of chronic OME.

Study

The study was applied on 14 patients (24 ears) who had failed medical treatment and had recurrence after surgery or patients who refused surgical treatment.

Methods

These patients received 4 intratympanic injections of dexamethasone. Approximately 0.5 ml of dexamethasone was injected in each time. Subjective assessment for symptomatic improvement was done and objective assessment was done by pure tone audiometry and tympanometry 3 months after the last injection.

Results

At the end of follow up period, no patient had noticeable improvement in hearing, aural fullness nor tinnitus. Also, pure tone audiometry and tympanometry revealed no noticeable improvement in any patient.

Conclusion

It was found that intratympanic injection of dexamethasone is not effective in management of chronic OME.
Transoral, minimally invasive, video-assisted technique for lingual thyroid
Authors: Kamal Elsharawy , Abd El-Fattah Ahmed M.
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Introduction

Lingual thyroid is a rare developmental congenital anomaly. Symptoms may not develop unless the gland enlarges because of gland hypertrophy or malignancy. When removal is advocated, most proposed techniques are invasive and associated with substantial morbidity.

Materials and methods

The approval of the Otolaryngology Department Research and Ethics Committee, Mansoura University, to perform an analysis of a new minimally invasive surgical technique for the management of a case of obstructive lingual thyroid gland was obtained before study commencement. Careful preoperative assessment of the diagnosis of the lingual thyroid gland included an 131I scan and an MRI of the head and neck with and without gadolinium.

Results

A transoral, minimally invasive, video-assisted thyroidectomy, using Harmonic shears, was performed on a 22-year-old man with a longstanding lingual thyroid that had begun to cause dysphagia and upper airway obstruction. The procedural time was 85 min, and the estimated blood loss was 20 cm3. The patient tolerated a regular diet with minimal discomfort and was discharged home within 24 h.

Conclusion

The combination of the transoral endoscope-guided technique with Harmonic vascular control is considered a surgically minimally invasive satisfactory option in well-trained hands familiar with such tools.
Diode laser myringotomy for short-term middle-ear ventilation: a pilot study on children
Authors: Hegazy Hassan M.
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate diode laser myringotomy (DLM) in children for the management of Eustachian tube and middle-ear disorders that require myringotomy for short-term treatment.

Study design

This is a prospective clinical study.

Patients and methods

The study comprised 20 children selected to undergo DLM for middle-ear ventilation as a mode of treatment for recurrent acute serous otitis media; these children suffered from persistent middle-ear effusion and had experienced failure of medical treatment for at least 8 weeks. Postoperative weekly visits to evaluate the myringotomy opening (MO) were carried out until healing was recorded. The Eustachian tube and hearing ability were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively 4 weeks after healing of the tympanic membrane. Cases were deemed to be failed when the MO closed early within the second week postoperatively without improvement in hearing, or the myringotomy persisted until the end of the third month postoperatively. Outcome measures were the state of the MO and of the ear drum, the patency time of the myringotomy, improvement in hearing and Eustachian tube function and incidence of operative and postoperative complications.

Results

The mean operative time was 5 min. No operative complications occurred. Procedural success was achieved in 16/20 ears (80%). Two ears showed postoperative persistent perforations, and two recorded early closure of the MO. The mean improvement in the air/bone gap was 12 dB for the successful cases. Twelve ears with healed MOs showed type A curve (75%). Four ears showed type C curve (25%) and needed further management.

Conclusion

DLM is useful in children for the management of Eustachian tube and middle-ear disorders needing myringotomy for short-term treatment.
Role of virtual bronchoscopy in foreign body inhalation in children
Authors: Hassan Mohamed A. , Youssef Tamer A. , El-Gharib Mohamed
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Objective

To investigate the usefulness of three-dimensional images on the basis of multidetector computer tomography (MDCT) in the evaluation of suspected foreign body (FB) aspiration in children.

Patients and methods

A total of 28 children presented to Ain Shams University hospital with suspected FB inhalation. All patients underwent chest radiographs. Of the patients, eight with inconclusive history, physical examination, and negative radiograph findings for FB inhalation underwent MDCT. All patients underwent rigid bronchoscopy (RB) and the results were compared with the findings of chest radiographs and virtual bronchoscopy images.

Results

Four patients were negative by radiography and MDCT scan, and were subjected to RB, with no FB found. The other four patients who were negative by radiography turned out to be positive by MDCT and were subjected to RB, which was positive for FB in only 3 patients. MDCT had a negative predictive value of 100%, whereas its positive predictive value was 75%.

Conclusion

RB should always be performed as a first-line procedure in the presence of a combination of characteristic clinical and radiographic signs. In the other patients, the presence of FB can be confirmed by MDCT in order to reduce the negative RB rate.
Assessing the applications of cortical auditory evoked potentials as a biomarker in children with cochlear implants
Authors: Mostafa Ismail Zohdi , Shabana Mohamed Ibrahim , El Shennawy Amira Maged , Weheiba Hoda Mahmoud
Published: September 2023

En

Abstract

Background

Cortical auditory evoked potentials (CAEPs) are noninvasive measures used to quantify central auditory system function in humans. More specifically, the P1–N1–P2 cortical auditory evoked potential has a unique role in identifying the central auditory system that has benefited from amplification or implantation. P1 reflects the maturation of the auditory system in general as it has developed over time.

Objective

The aims of this study were to assess the CAEP in children with cochlear implants compared with age-matched controls, to study the different variables affecting the results, and to compare the pattern of P1 CAEP in cochlear implant patients compared with that in those with hearing aids.

Methodology

Thirty-five hearing-impaired children (using cochlear implants) were compared with 20 age-matched and sex-matched children with normal hearing. In both groups, P1 CAEP latency and waveform morphology were recorded using free-field auditory stimulation with tone bursts at 500 and 2000 Hz at 100 dB sound pressure level in two sessions that were 6 months apart.

Results

Children using cochlear implants exhibited prolongation of P1 latencies, indicating an overall delay in maturation when compared with that in children who could hear normally. P1 CAEP latency and amplitude improved significantly after 6 months of device use.

Conclusion

Standardized age-appropriate normative data on P1 CAEPs in the pediatric Egyptian population could be used to determine implantation or amplification results.
Silicosis and silicotuberculosis among respiratory hospital admissions: A cross-sectional survey in northern Tanzania
Authors: Dennis E , Mussa H , Sanga M P , Howlett P , Nyakunga G
Published: September 2023

Background. There is little evidence describing respiratory disease among 40.5 million small-scale miners worldwide.Objectives. To describe the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adult respiratory inpatients with silicosis and silicotuberculosis ina tertiary hospital in Tanzania that serves a small-scale mining region.Methods. In this retrospective, cross-sectional survey, patient files from admissions between 2010 and 2020 were opportunistically selected and included if a respiratory diagnosis had been made.Results. Of 223 patients with respiratory conditions, 32 (14.3%; 95% confidence interval (CI) 10.0 - 19.6) were diagnosed with silicosisand 17 (7.6%; 95% CI 4.5 - 11.9) with silicotuberculosis. Mining was the most frequent occupation in those with silicosis (n=15/32; 46.9%) and silicotuberculosis (n=15/17; 88.2%). Of those with silicosis or silicotuberculosis, 26/49 (53.1%) were aged <45 years.Conclusion. Our study suggests that silicosis and silicotuberculosis are common among male and female respiratory inpatients withoccupational exposure. The study highlights the role of occupational exposures in respiratory disease in developing economies.
Origine de la CIDIH
Authors: Wood Philip
Published: September 2023

En 1988 la revue du Réseau International de la CIDIH a publié cet article de Philip Wood dans le Volume 1, numéro 1 intitulé « Vers une CIDIH officielle en 1991 - Bulletin du CQCIDIH ». Il nous fait plaisir de republier l’article de Monsieur Wood qui avait participé aux consultations organisées par le réseau international pour proposer une révision du 3e niveau de la CIDIH pour parler de ses origines. Conférence prononcée le 2 juin 1987 lors de la journée précongrès consacrée à la CIDIH.
Lancement de la révision de la CIDIH
Authors: van Stokkom Sonja Calais , Pfeiffer Jan , Tremblay Georges , Eldar R. , Ferngren Harry , Campbell Brown Scott , Hamonet Claude
Published: September 2023

En 1990 la revue du Réseau International de la CIDIH a publié le Volume 3, numéro 3 intitulé « Lancement de la révision de la CIDIH ». Il nous fait plaisir de republier ce volume complet dans cet article qui regroupe ainsi les différentes visions des professionnels experts de la CIDIH venant de différents pays.
The human body from a biotechnological perspective in art contexts: active space of experimentation in constant transformation
Authors: Ortiz Martinez de Carnero Rafael
Published: September 2023

Over the last three decades, the rise of new conceptualizations around the human body in connection with technology and machines has led to the development of new art practices in parallel with technological advances in the fields of biology, medicine and computing. This paper examines the human body in art contexts where biotechnology plays a relevant role in the generation of new conceptualizations around the human body topic. Thus, re-contextualized in social and cultural spheres and technical terms, the body will become redesigned, revamped, or augmented through the use of technological advances ranging from plastic surgery to robotic prosthetics. The human body is our vehicle of direct interaction with the environment. Its modification, alteration or expansion implies a redefinition of the existing limits between our corporality and the environment itself. Not only in the physical sense, but metaphysical and social. Hence, the introduced artists and strategies blur these limits and establish new relations through the body as a physical and social entity. In the search of new boundaries far beyond socio-cultural and natural limitations, they will reach new social, perceptual and conceptual statuses, far beyond aesthetic practices, focusing on the generation of political and social debates.
Dynamic compartmentalization of the pro-invasive transcription factor NHR-67 reveals a role for Groucho in regulating a proliferative-invasive cellular switch in C. elegans
Authors: Medwig-Kinney Taylor N. , Kinney Brian A. , Martinez Michael A. Q. , Yee Callista , Sirota Sydney S. , Mullarkey Angelina A. , Somineni Neha , Hippler Justin , Zhang Wan , Shen Kang , Hammell Christopher M. , Pani Ariel M. , Matus David Q.
Published: September 2023

A growing body of evidence suggests that cell division and basement membrane invasion are mutually exclusive cellular behaviors. How cells switch between proliferative and invasive states is not well understood. Here, we investigated this dichotomy
in vivo
by examining two cell types in the developing
Caenorhabditis elegans
somatic gonad that derive from equipotent progenitors, but exhibit distinct cell behaviors: the post-mitotic, invasive anchor cell and the neighboring proliferative, non-invasive ventral uterine (VU) cells. We show that the fates of these cells post-specification are more plastic than previously appreciated and that levels of NHR-67 are important for discriminating between invasive and proliferative behavior. Transcription of
nhr-67
is downregulated following post-translational degradation of its direct upstream regulator, HLH-2 (E/Daughterless) in VU cells. In the nuclei of VU cells, residual NHR-67 protein is compartmentalized into discrete punctae that are dynamic over the cell cycle and exhibit liquid-like properties. By screening for proteins that colocalize with NHR-67 punctae, we identified new regulators of uterine cell fate maintenance: homologs of the transcriptional co-repressor Groucho (UNC-37 and LSY-22), as well as the TCF/LEF homolog POP-1. We propose a model in which association of NHR-67 with the Groucho/TCF complex suppresses the default invasive state in non-invasive cells, which complements transcriptional regulation to add robustness to the proliferative-invasive cellular switch
in vivo
.
Molecular tuning of sea anemone stinging
Authors: He Lily S , Qi Yujia , Allard Corey AH , Valencia-Montoya Wendy A , Krueger Stephanie P , Weir Keiko , Seminara Agnese , Bellono Nicholas W
Published: September 2023

Jellyfish and sea anemones fire single-use, venom-covered barbs to immobilize prey or predators. We previously showed that the anemone
Nematostella vectensis
uses a specialized voltage-gated calcium (Ca
V
) channel to trigger stinging in response to synergistic prey-derived chemicals and touch (Weir et al., 2020). Here we use experiments and theory to find that stinging behavior is suited to distinct ecological niches. We find that the burrowing anemone
Nematostella
uses uniquely strong Ca
V
inactivation for precise control of predatory stinging. In contrast, the related anemone
Exaiptasia diaphana
inhabits exposed environments to support photosynthetic endosymbionts. Consistent with its niche,
Exaiptasia
indiscriminately stings for defense and expresses a Ca
V
splice variant that confers weak inactivation. Chimeric analyses reveal that Ca
V
β subunit adaptations regulate inactivation, suggesting an evolutionary tuning mechanism for stinging behavior. These findings demonstrate how functional specialization of ion channel structure contributes to distinct organismal behavior.
Translational regulation enhances distinction of cell types in the nervous system
Authors: Ichinose Toshiharu , Kondo Shu , Kanno Mai , Shichino Yuichi , Mito Mari , Iwasaki Shintaro , Tanimoto Hiromu
Published: September 2023

Multicellular organisms are composed of specialized cells with distinct proteomes. While recent advances in single-cell transcriptome analyses have revealed differential expression of mRNAs, cellular diversity in translational profiles remains to be understood. In this study, by performing RNA-seq and ribo-seq in genetically-defined cells in the
Drosophila
brain, we revealed substantial posttranscriptional regulations that augment the cell-type distinctions. Specifically, we found that translational efficiency of proteins fundamental to neuronal functions, such as ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors, was maintained low in glia, leading to preferential translation in neurons. Notably, distribution of ribosome footprints on these mRNAs exhibited a remarkable bias towards the 5′ untranslated regions (UTR) in glia. Using a transgenic reporter, we provide evidence that the UTR confer translational suppression selectively in glia. Overall, these findings underscore the profound impact of translational regulation in shaping cell identity and provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms driving cell-type diversity.
Clinical Profile and Visual Outcome of Traumatic Glaucoma Patients Following Closed Globe Injury in the Rural Part of Eastern Uttar Pradesh at a Tertiary Eye Care Centre: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Agarwal Subodh Kumar , Chaudhary Prakhar , Bharadwaj Rahul , Dhawan Aeshvarya , Tomar Nidhi , Singh Anupam
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Glaucoma is a significant cause of ocular morbidity following ocular trauma, particularly Closed Globe Injury (CGI), which frequently leads to elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP). This type of trauma can result in various tissue damages such as radial sphincter tears, iridodialysis, angle recession, cyclodialysis, trabecular meshwork tears, zonule separation, or peripheral retinal dialysis. Damage in these areas can lead to early or delayed onset glaucoma. Aim: To evaluate the clinical profile, assess visual outcomes, and analyse management strategies in post-traumatic glaucoma with CGI. Materials and Methods: The retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary eye care centre in Department of Ophthalmology, Regional Institute of Ophthalmology (RIO), Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh, India. from January 2020 to December 2022. Retrospective data of patients presenting with CGI and developing elevated IOP (>21 mmHg) were collected. Only patients with a minimum follow-up of three months were included. Various parameters, including demographics, IOP, Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), and the effects of medical and surgical treatments on IOP and BCVA, were analysed. The Ocular Trauma Score (OTS) was also calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences software version 21.0, with a significance level of 5%. Continuous variables were described as mean±Standard Deviation (SD), and an unpaired t-test was used for comparisons between pre- and postmanagement visual acuity and IOP. Results: Out of 259 eyes with ocular trauma, 93 (35.90%) were diagnosed with CGI and developed elevated IOP. The most common causes of elevated IOP were hyphema (37.63%) and angle recession mechanisms (32.25%). The median IOP at presentation was 35 mmHg (range: 12 to 71 mmHg) and decreased to 16.5 mmHg (range: 4 to 52 mmHg) at the last follow-up (p-value <0.001). Surgical management was required in 30 (32.25%) eyes, with 13 (13.97%) eyes undergoing trabeculectomy. Conclusion: Post-traumatic IOP elevation occurred in 93 (35.90%) eyes with CGI, and 13.97% of these eyes required glaucoma filtering surgery for IOP control. Overall, medical management was necessary in 67.74% of eyes, while 32.25% required surgical intervention. Eyes with posterior segment involvement had poor visual acuity. Poor baseline vision and vitreo-retinal involvement increased the risk of a poor visual outcome.
Primary Breast Carcinoma in Accessory Axillary Breast Tissue: A Case Report
Authors: Goyal Vikas , Pandove Paras Kumar , . Ramandeep , Kumar Parveen
Published: September 2023

Accessory axillary breast carcinoma is unusual, with an incidence of 0.2 to 0.6%. It is commonly located in the axilla; however, it may be seen anywhere along the milk line. Development is hormone-dependent, similar to normal breast tissue. Here, a 65-year-old postmenopausal multiparous woman presented at the Surgery Outpatient Department (OPD) with a complaint of a lump in her left axilla with multiple overlying skin ulcers for the past four months. A routine bilateral mammogram was performed, which showed a well-defined hypoechoic area measuring 1.2×1.0 cm with no lymph nodes and calcification over the left accessory breast tissue. A wedge biopsy of the lesion revealed Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC). She underwent a left modified radical mastectomy with an extended incision to the left axilla. She also received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with close follow-up. Recent studies suggest that there is no additional advantage with mastectomy over total excision of accessory breast tissue. Axillary clearance is performed if preoperative lymph node biopsy is positive. Early diagnosis and differentiation of accessory breast cancer are the keys to the effective management of the cancer.
Compliance and Implementation of Municipal Solid Waste Management Laws and Regulations in Mukono District, Uganda
Authors: Kiguli Dan Kibuuka , Nabukonde Ameria , Barakagira Alex
Published: September 2023

Consumption and production of resources leads to generation of wastes that may be undesirable in the environment. Solid waste management laws are put in place aimed at ensuring proper and effective control and management of wastes in an area. This study was set out to assess the compliance and implementation of municipal solid waste management laws and regulations in Mukono district, Uganda. Specifically, the study sought to: characterize the solid wastes generated in Mukono municipality; determine the mechanisms of implementation of solid waste management laws and regulations in Mukono municipality; and to assess the effectiveness of the solid waste management laws and regulations in Mukono municipality. A case study design complimented with both quantitative and qualitative approaches were employed to obtain the required data to answer the stated objectives. A questionnaire and documentary review were used to collect the required data for the study. A number of solid wastes including food and food wastes; glass, plastics and metals; and textiles among others were generated in Mukono municipality. There are solid waste management laws and regulations used in the management of wastes in Mukono municipality. Some mechanisms including awareness creation and monitoring implementation processes have been put in place for an effective implementation of municipal solid waste management laws. The study found out that there has been an ineffective implementation of municipal solid waste management laws in Mukono municipality which were most likely brought about by poor leadership, inappropriate allocation of funds and low levels of awareness among members of the local community. It is recommended that Institutions like the Environment Police and the National Environment Authority should work hand in hand to strengthen the implementation of solid waste management laws and regulations in the country. The government should enhance sensitization campaigns about what the solid waste management laws and regulations entail. In addition, funds required for implementation of the laws and regulations should be appropriated and be used for the intended purposes.