bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond the Plate
Authors: Waghmode Manisha L. , Shukla Manisha , Roy Premasish
Published: July 2024

Emotional eating is when you use food to satisfy your emotional demands rather than your stomach in order to feel better. However, emotional eating does not resolve emotional issues. Actually, most of the time it makes you feel worse. After that, you feel bad for overindulging in food in addition to the initial emotional problem still existing. Consuming huge amounts of food is not the only aspect of the complex and multifaceted phenomena known as binge eating. This book chapter's purpose is to investigate the various aspects of excessive eating. In order to better understand the viewpoint, this chapter looks at emotional triggers, motivations, food consumption types, and respondent demographics that lead to binge eating. Both primary and secondary data were used in this investigation. Pre-structured questionnaires were utilized as primary sources of data collection, while secondary data sources were used for the literature review. Using a convenient random sample technique, 107 respondents contributed for collecting primary data from the Navi Mumbai region. The SPSS data analysis software tool was utilized for data analysis. For testing stated hypothesis chi-square test was used. According to the current study, all of the chi-square values are less than 0.05, indicating that there is a significant relationship between the variables that are stated, including demographic features (gender and age), emotional states (such as loneliness, depression, stress, sadness, and anxiety), and the frequency of binge eating. This indicates that the null hypothesis is rejected in all cases, and as a result, we can conclude that there is an association between all of these variables as indicated in the conceptual model. Additionally, it is found that the highest percentage of respondents (91.6%; n = 98) said they eat comfort food or unhealthy food just because it tastes good. At most, 70.1% (n = 75) of the respondents said they drank tea, coffee, soft drinks, and other beverages. The current investigation is limited to an elements of emotional eating that are associated with binge eating. Only students in the Navi Mumbai region are included in the study's scope.
Advanced Analytics and Quantum Computing for Revolutionizing Procurement Strategies
Authors: Dhaliwal Neha , Aghera Sagar , Whig Pawan , Dutta Pushan Kumar
Published: July 2024

This chapter explores the convergence of advanced analytics and quantum computing in revolutionizing procurement strategies. Procurement plays a pivotal role in supply chain management, impacting cost, quality, and supplier relationships. Traditional procurement approaches often rely on static models and historical data, limiting their ability to adapt to dynamic market conditions and optimize decision-making processes. However, by integrating advanced analytics techniques, such as machine learning and predictive analytics, with the computational power of quantum computing, organizations can unlock new insights and enhance procurement effectiveness. This chapter discusses the principles of quantum computing and its applications in procurement optimization, supplier risk management, and contract negotiation. Through case studies and practical examples, the chapter illustrates how the synergy between advanced analytics and quantum computing can drive innovation, mitigate risks, and create strategic advantages in procurement operations.
Quantum Approaches to Sustainable Resource Management in Supply Chains
Authors: Thiyagarajan Savitha , Thangadurai J. Solomon , T. Mohana Priya , Rajendran Rajesh Kanna
Published: July 2024

Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in ways that classical computers cannot. This capability is particularly advantageous for solving complex optimization problems that are common in supply chain management. Quantum algorithms, such as the quantum approximate optimization algorithm (QAOA) and quantum annealing, have shown promise in efficiently solving these problems by exploring numerous potential solutions simultaneously and identifying optimal strategies. The purpose of this chapter is to investigate the rapidly developing topic of quantum computing and its potential applications in managing sustainable resources within supply chains. Traditional resource allocation methods often struggle to maximize efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. However, new developments in quantum computing have opened up potentially fruitful pathways for addressing these issues. This study aims to explore how quantum computing can revolutionize through an examination of quantum algorithms, optimization approaches, and case studies.
Boosting Quantum Computing to Redefine Supply Chain in the Hospital Industry
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Dutta Pushan Kumar , Kaunert Christian
Published: July 2024

The development of very effective imaging systems with improved resolution for use by medical experts in real-time is promised by quantum computers. This covers developments like knowing how proteins fold, examining how medications and enzymes interact molecularly, and accelerating clinical trials. Personalized treatment options are made possible by quantum computers' fast DNA sequencing capabilities, especially in the fight against hereditary illnesses. Their accuracy and effectiveness make it possible to investigate novel treatment approaches. Quantum computing has enormous promise for pharmaceutical research and development since it can interpret and reproduce complex chemical and biological processes like never before. With pushing the frontiers of scientific innovation and discovery, the use of quantum computing to healthcare has the potential to improve patient care and expedite medical advancements. This chapter comprehensively explores the various dimensions of the quantum computing in health and medicines.
Integrating AI and Quantum Technologies for Sustainable Supply Chain Management
Authors: Whig Pawan , Remala Rajesh , Mudunuru Krishnamurty Raju , Quraishi Suhail Javed
Published: July 2024

This chapter investigates the synergistic potential of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies to foster sustainable practices within supply chain management. With the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing, organizations are seeking innovative solutions to optimize their supply chains while minimizing environmental impact. By leveraging AI's predictive capabilities and quantum computing's computational power, this chapter explores how organizations can enhance decision-making processes, optimize resource utilization and promote sustainability across their supply chains. Through case studies and practical examples, the chapter demonstrates how the integration of AI and quantum technologies can enable real-time monitoring, predictive analytics, and adaptive optimization strategies, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient supply chain ecosystem.
Cultivating High-Performance Agile Teams
Authors: Bhardwaj Arvind Kumar , Mahida Ankur
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines agile methodologies, which have expanded beyond software development to various sectors, emphasizing adaptability, collaboration, and customer satisfaction. Agile is suited for today's fast-paced markets, contrasting traditional, rigid methods. Originating with the 2001 Agile Manifesto, it focuses on iterative development and prioritizes human interactions. Notably, companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Spotify have adopted agile, enhancing productivity and responsiveness—benefits proven during the COVID-19 pandemic when agile teams quickly adapted strategies. The chapter discusses high-performance agile teams characterized by open communication, shared goals, and mutual accountability, enabling swift decision-making and adaptability. Empowerment is crucial, fostering an environment of trust and autonomy that encourages innovation. Agile leadership supports team autonomy and psychological safety, crucial for continuous improvement and adaptiveness.
Advanced Analytics and Machine Learning Algorithms for Healthcare Decision Support Systems
Authors: Sarvakar Ketan , Yadav Rahul , Patel Akshita , Patel Chandrakantbhai Devabhai , Rana Kaushik , Borisagar Viral
Published: July 2024

Healthcare CDSS uses machine learning and analytics for real-time insights, risk projections, and decision support. The chapter covers CDSS development, deployment, and evaluation using machine learning for early illness prediction and personalised care. NLP analyses unstructured medical data to identify risks and schedule staff efficiently. Data scientists detect abnormalities to prevent healthcare fraud. CDSS machine learning speeds drug discovery with diagnoses, treatments, and insights. CDSS machine learning and analytics improve patient care, personalisation, and outcomes.
Improving Distributed Renewable Energy Power Planning Through Particle Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Yao Honglei , Liu Xin , Chang Yingxian , Liu Donglan , Wang Rui
Published: July 2024

The ongoing energy structure reform in our country has led to the emergence of distributed renewable energy as a primary source of energy development and utilization, primarily due to its utilization of local resources. However, challenges such as undefined objectives and ineffective planning have impeded its progress. This study specifically investigates distributed renewable energy power planning by enhancing a particle swarm algorithm with a strategy for updating local optimal solutions. The refined algorithm tackles issues related to renewable energy variability and economic efficiency, thereby optimizing the planning of distributed renewable energy power systems. The outcomes illustrate improvements in system operation, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. This research contributes to the progression of particle swarm algorithms for the planning of distributed renewable energy power systems.
BP Neural Network-Enhanced System for Employment and Mental Health Support for College Students
Authors: Deng Zhengrong , Xiang Hong , Tang Weijun , Cheng Hanlie , Qin Qiang
Published: July 2024

This paper employs BP Neural Network (BPNN) theory to evaluate innovation and entrepreneurship education in universities. It utilizes students' evaluation indexes as input vectors and determines the number of hidden layer neurons. Experimental results serve as output vectors. The BPNN method proves reasonable and feasible for vocational education course evaluation, exhibiting a 14.96% higher accuracy than traditional genetic algorithms. The paper discusses the model, configuration, characteristics, training process, algorithm enhancement, and limitations of neural networks, followed by an introduction to genetic algorithms. Through analysis of principles, basic operations, and common operators, it establishes a theoretical foundation for subsequent discussions.
Community Empowerment and Communication Role in Creating Consensus and Acceptability for Innovative Tourism to Support Diversified Economy Oman
Authors: Tripathi Sangeeta , Al Shahri Muna Said
Published: July 2024

The present research investigates community empowerment and communication's role in promoting community support for innovative, sustainable tourism development. It also examines community support, perceived benefits, perceived cost association and influence on innovative, sustainable tourism development. Mixed methods, which comprise qualitative and quantitative data, have been applied. The research frameworks have been adapted after a comprehensive literature review. The framework encompasses six constructs - community empowerment, integrated communication strategies and their influence on community support, perceived benefits and perceived cost to understand the empirical evidence. The findings elucidate that community empowerment and communication are prominent predictors in creating consensus and acceptability of local communities to encourage innovative, sustainable tourism to support Oman's diversified economic drive. The findings can be used as a reference document for future studies.
TRABALHO DOCENTE NO ATENDIMENTO EDUCACIONAL ESPECIALIZADO
Authors: Melo Douglas Christian Ferrari de , Colombo Laís Perpetuo , Almeida Georgia Bulian Souza
Published: July 2024

Este trabalho objetiva analisar algumas ações desenvolvidas pelo Napne (Núcleo de Atendimento a Pessoas com Necessidades Específicas) referentes ao trabalho docente realizado pelo atendimento educacional especializado com um estudante no contexto da educação profissional e tecnológica. O referido aluno apresenta deficiência física decorrente de uma encefalopatia crônica não degenerativa, também conhecida como paralisia cerebral, que ocorreu durante seu nascimento. As ações executadas ancoram-se na perspectiva histórico-cultural de Vigotski e na pedagogia histórico-crítica de Saviani. Para tanto, adotou-se como procedimento metodológico um estudo de caso baseado nas principais ações executadas no período letivo compreendido entre 2018 e 2019. Destacou-se neste estudo o desenvolvimento de estratégias de ensino-aprendizagem baseadas no atendimento educacional especializado e no trabalho colaborativo, no intuito de proporcionar avanços na aprendizagem do discente. A análise do trabalho desenvolvido evidenciou a importância do professor de Educação Especial para a efetivação de práticas inclusivas consistentes e adequadas aos estudantes com deficiência na educação profissional e tecnológica.
IMPLICAÇÕES NAS POLÍTICAS EDUCACIONAIS BRASILEIRAS DOS CRITÉRIOS DIAGNÓSTICOS DO AUTISMO NO DSM-5 E CID-11
Authors: Freitas Maria Clara de , Benitez Priscila , Kumada Kate Mamhy Oliveira , Rocha Luiz Renato Martins da
Published: July 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar e discutir as últimas versões do DSM (Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico dos Transtornos Mentais 4 e 5) e da CID (Classificação Estatística Internacional de Doenças e Problemas Relacionados à Saúde 10 e 11) com relação ao diagnóstico do Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo (TEA) e suas implicações nas políticas educacionais brasileiras para esta população. Para alcançar os objetivos do presente artigo, foi conduzida uma pesquisa bibliográfica, de natureza qualitativa e do tipo descritiva, na qual foram propostas discussões acerca de cinco tópicos: alteração dos critérios diagnósticos; classificação do autismo como um transtorno do neurodesenvolvimento; eliminação dos subgrupos de transtornos específicos; desdobramentos para o tratamento clínico e educacional e as possibilidades de trabalho educacional com estudantes com TEA.
UM CURRÍCULO DE CONTOS DE FADAS DA DIFERENÇA
Authors: Vasconcelos Maria Beatriz de Freitas , Caldeira Maria Carolina da Silva
Published: July 2024

Neste artigo buscamos mostrar a criação de outros possíveis no que se refere a gênero por meio dos Contos de Fadas. Embora, historicamente, tais contos tenham sido criados com base em modelos de feminilidade e masculinidade que reiteram as normas prevalentes de gênero, neste trabalho são analisados seis livros de Contos de Fadas contemporâneos que compõem um currículo cultural em que diferentes feminilidades são construídas. Por meio desses novos contos, há um significativo deslocamento: se, há tempos, os Contos de Fadas ensinam uma lógica adultocêntrica e dicotômica, há, nessas narrativas contemporâneas, uma busca por realçar o protagonismo infantil, borrar os binarismos e dar espaço para a diferença. O objetivo do artigo é, então, mostrar que diferentes técnicas produzem uma força performativa, que constrói inventivamente outras feminilidades, com condutas subversivas, por meio de corpos de crianças-meninas. Argumentamos que, nesse currículo cultural, a força performativa produz posições de sujeito criança-menina que contestam padrões de beleza: criança-menina-corajosa-e-valente-astuta-perigosa-destemida e criança-menina-que-salva-a-si-mesma. Assim, a resistência desse currículo ensina performances, com base na concepção de que a literatura, como expressão de arte, tem a potencialidade de extrapolar as relações de poder-saber engendradas, estabelecendo-se também como espaço de transgressão e proliferação da diferença.
DERRIDA E A DIFERENÇA CURRÍCULO COMO ZONA DE TRADUÇÃO
Authors: Macedo Elizabeth , Ranniery Thiago
Published: July 2024

Este texto parte de uma pesquisa-intervenção realizada em uma escola pública da cidade de Niterói, no Estado do Rio de Janeiro (Brasil), para configurar uma reflexão sobre teoria de currículo e diferença. No projeto, como no texto, propomos pensar com Derrida para tomar currículo como zona de tradução. Para tanto, nós reconstituímos a imagem de pensamento da tradução a partir da tradução do jogo gráfico-fonético différence/différance. Em seguida, interrogamos brevemente textos políticos a partir do exercício de criação de memórias futuras com a escola e, na sequência, seguimos complicando algumas crenças pedagógicas, movendo-nos em direção a uma teoria curricular comprometida com a alteridade radical. Nosso argumento insiste em uma teorização de currículo que possa levar em conta o intercâmbio de discursos fora de si, uma certa confusão resultante dos jogos de disseminação e disjunção e uma esfera afetiva associada ao contato forçado de viver juntos que esfolia a pele do sujeito autônomo.
FAZER FENDAS EM MORADAS SEGURAS
Authors: Oliveira Danilo Araujo de
Published: July 2024

Este artigo parte da questão central do campo curricular - “O que deve ser ensinado?” - para problematizar como, no presente, os desafios às respostas a essa pergunta têm se complexificado devido, principalmente, às disputas que um modelo de família tem travado em torno da produção do conhecimento nos currículos. Mobilizo uma narrativa docente centrada na temática de uma mudança de plano curricular por medo da reação familiar ao modo como ela iria abordar o tema das múltiplas formas de constituição familiar. Discuto como alguns lares têm se constituído como moradas seguras e reivindicado que os currículos sejam suas extensões, impedindo, assim, que as escolas públicas efetivem suas ações como seu adjetivo as caracteriza. Assim, as problematizações direcionam-se em defesa da criação de fendas como desestabilização, abertura de possibilidades e resistência às mesmidades.
CURRÍCULOS EDUCATIVOS, CULTURAS Y DIFERENCIA: CREACIÓN DE POSIBILIDADES EN LA EDUCACIÓN
Authors: Silva Sandra Kretli da , Paraíso Marlucy Alves , Oliveira Danilo
Published: July 2024

Esta convocatoria temática tuvo como objetivo reunir a grupos de investigación e investigadores que enfocan las culturas, los currículos y la diferencia como un puro evento y como una forma de enfrentar los innumerables desafíos de los tiempos actuales. El tema central del dossier propuesto aquí fueron los temas de género, sexualidad, clase y raza, que abordan las diferencias en educación y currículo. Una diferencia que valora la multiplicidad y prolifera procesos de creación e inventiva en la educación. En una época de neoconservadurismo y frente a políticas educativas reaccionarias y conservadoras, consideramos urgente dar a conocer los movimientos de investigación que buscan monitorear los procesos de creación y resistencia en/desde las escuelas.
SHORT-TERM MEMORY PROCESSES IN CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES
Authors: Alhussain Reem Ali
Published: July 2024

The study evaluates the extent of online teaching among instructors at the selected universities in the Philippines. The study utilized 120 faculty members from the private and state universities in the Philippines. Participants of this study were classified according to gender, type of residence, number of years in teaching, highest educational attainment, and department. The researchers used quantitative and qualitative research designs. The quantitative research design utilized a Likert -type data instrument and statistical tools used were mean, t-test, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The study was submitted and evaluated for its contents by the experts in the qualitative method. Moreover, qualitative data and information will be gathered through the interview to be conducted by the researchers themselves. The qualitative design process was guided by the qualitative and qualitative experts and was based on a qualitative framework by Creswell (2012). Results revealed that online teaching using JEL was "very high." The challenges derived from the qualitative views and statements experienced by the respondents were the following: (1) interrupted and unstable signal, (2) technical issues in the middle of using, (3) unpreparedness of the respondents as they shared that they need more training and hands-on, and (4) frequent maintenance of JEL.
UM PROGRAMA MÁXIMO, UM PROFESSOR MÍNIMO
Authors: Aranha Rudervania da Silva Lima , Oliveira Selma Suely Baçal de
Published: July 2024

O artigo descreve como a lógica do mercado tem penetrado na formação docente e evidencia a execução dos programas da Fundação Itaú Social e Fundação Telefônica Vivo, que se inseriram na formação continuada dos professores. As contribuições teórico-metodológicas do materialismo histórico-dialético guiaram o percurso da análise documental. Trata-se de pesquisa documental, cujas principais fontes são os documentos oriundos do acordo do empréstimo externo entre o Banco Interamericano de Desenvolvimento (BID) e a Prefeitura Municipal de Manaus. Desse modo, observa a materialização do financiamento das ações do Projeto de Expansão e Melhoria Educacional da Rede Pública de Manaus, compreendido como uma política pública inserida no bojo da educação pública, que incorporou as orientações do BID, garantindo a mercadorização da formação de professores da educação básica. Os resultados mostram a naturalização de que tudo que envolve a educação pública pode e deve ser convertido em bens e produtos comercializáveis. Nesta análise, as implicações do sistema de parceria público-privada na educação, executada pelos acordos, convênios e contratos com o ente público, correspondem à lógica privatista, em que o setor privado passa a ser convocado para conduzir, dar suporte e amparo ao desenvolvimento do setor público.
NO PÚLPITO E NO TERREIRO
Authors: Santana Jorge Amilcar de Castro , Aguiar Camilla Fogaça
Published: July 2024

A proposta deste artigo é analisar o importante destaque político-religioso angariados por duas mulheres atuantes no município de São Gonçalo (RJ): A evangélica e ex-prefeita Aparecida Panisset (2005-2012) e a liderança de terreiro da cidade, Mãe Márcia D’Oxum. Observamos que, diante do cenário de crescimento evangélico pentecostal no espaço público da cidade, ambas as personagens protagonizam diversos conflitos políticos e religiosos do município no início dos anos 2000, mas suas ações não estão livres de “controvérsias” e certas aproximações.
SAN JERÓNIMO, NAVEGANTE ENTRE TEXTOS
Authors: Magnavacca Silvia
Published: July 2024

Este trabajo se articula en tres momentos en los que se presenta la figura de San Jerónimo en confrontación con la agustiniana y después de aludir a sus diversas actitudes respecto de la caída de Roma. En el primero, se menciona la preocupación de ambos sobre ciertas tesis, sobre todo, de Orígenes y de Pelagio, toda vez que ellas proponen diversas posiciones doctrinales en las bases y orígenes de la Cristiandad. En un segundo momento -gozne entre el primero y el tercero, ya que constituye un problema de interpretación- se analiza su discusión con el hiponense acerca del episodio de Antioquía y la diferente lectura que los dos hacen de la divergencia entre los apóstoles Pedro y Pablo. En el tercer momento, y sobre una selección de textos jeronimianos, la autora reflexiona acerca de las exigencias y características de la labor de traducción, vigentes hoy, que ofrecen los escritos del doctor maximus.
Market Practices and Structuring Practices on Market Making: Sustainable Certified and Specialty Coffee Market Dynamics in Brazil
Authors: Henrique Montagnana Vicente Leme Paulo , Nunes Maciel Gustavo , Eduardo Cândido Souza Cassio
Published: July 2024

On this paper, in a five years longitudinal study, the theoretical framework the constructivist market studies (CMS) were used to analyze how market practices interacted with structuring practices in the making of market arrangements throughout the sustainable and specialty coffee market development process in Brazil. Through the historical reconstruction of the UTZ certification program in Brazil and the Cup of Excellence (COE) coffee quality competition, based on document analysis and in-depth interviews, it was possible to identify the main market practices adopted by the actors involved in the organization and in market designing. It was possible to select specific translation moments that resulted in different market framings, showing how rules, devices and practices shaped the Brazilian coffee market. Main representational, normalizing and exchange practices were identified and it was highlighted the role of a new analytical category called “market structuring practices”, which acts as an important mechanism for the making of market arrangements and for the shaping and consolidation of market practices (marketization process).
Mundo Digital: Uma Análise da Atuação dos Profissionais de Social Media no Mercado de Trabalho Digital
Authors: Lencina Marjori Gonçalves , Corso Kathiane Benedetti
Published: July 2024

A pandemia do COVID-19 aumentou as incertezas do mercado de trabalho e acelerou a chegada das profissões do futuro. Nesse sentido, busca-se estudar uma das 15 profissões emergentes no Brasil, sendo esta, a profissão Social Media/Gestor de Redes Sociais. Uma profissão relativamente nova que por estar se consolidando no mercado de trabalho digital brasileiro ainda apresenta algumas lacunas. Para tal, o objetivo geral que se propõe é identificar as estratégias de atuação dos profissionais de Social Media no mercado de trabalho digital. Esta pesquisa tem caráter exploratório e foi realizada através de uma abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa. Utilizando o método misto descrito por Creswell (2007), foi realizada coleta de dados com questionário através do Google Formulário, entrevistas com profissionais em destaque e instituições que auxiliam a formalização. A análise dos dados foi feita por meio da técnica de análise interpretativa e estatística descritiva. Destacou-se como resultado o surgimento desta nova carreira começou em meados de 2009, foram identificadas, outras alternativas, em função da legislação atual para formalização dos profissionais após a retirada do marketing direto como CNAE de MEI e as formas de oferta e atuação atual do presente mercado.
Production of Cu/Zn Nanoparticles by Pulsed Laser Ablation in Liquids and Sintered Cu/Zn Alloy
Authors: Saiki Taku , Inada Mitsuru
Published: July 2024

As a preliminary step to establish technology for fabricating High-Entropy Alloys (HEAs) that can make a large-scale HEA using a pulse laser with high peak intensity and high-repetition in the future, we fabricated alloys in which two types of metal atom are mixed close together in the order of nanometers. For the method to produce the alloy, metal alloy nanoparticles were prepared by irradiating the material in liquid with focused high-repetition Q-switched laser pulses using an in-liquid laser ablation method. When brass powder was used as an original material, analysis results by TEM showed that numerous nanoparticles mixed with copper and zinc atoms could be produced. Furthermore, it was clarified by SEM EDS that copper and zinc atoms in the nanoalloy were maintained at a ratio of 3:1 in sintered alloy, and that the atoms were spatially uniformly distributed over a wide range in sintered metal.
Exercise training for patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction. A narrative review
Authors: Caminiti Giuseppe , Volterrani Maurizio , Iellamo Ferdinando , Marazzi Giuseppe , Silvestrini Marco , Giamundo Domenico Mario , Morsella Valentina , Di Biasio Deborah , Franchini Alessio , Perrone Marco Alfonso
Published: July 2024

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a significant global health challenge, accounting for up to 50% of all heart failure cases and predominantly affecting the elderly and women. Despite advancements in therapeutic strategies, HFpEF's complexity poses substantial challenges in management, particularly due to its high comorbidity burden, including renal failure, atrial fibrillation, and obesity, among others. These comorbidities not only complicate the pathophysiology of HFpEF but also exacerbate its symptoms, necessitating a personalized approach to treatment focused on comorbidity management and symptom alleviation. In heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, exercise training (ET) was effective in improving exercise tolerance, quality of life, and reducing hospitalizations. However, the efficacy of ET in HFpEF patients remains less understood, with limited studies showing mixed results. Exercise intolerance is a key symptom in HFpEF patients, and it has a multifactorial origin since both central and peripheral oxygen mechanisms of transport and utilization are often compromised. Recent evidence underscores the potential of supervised ET in enhancing exercise tolerance and quality of life among HFpEF patients; however, the literature remains sparse and predominantly consists of small-scale studies. This review highlights the critical role of exercise intolerance in HFpEF and synthesizes current knowledge on the benefits of ET. It also calls for a deeper understanding and further research into exercise-based interventions and their underlying mechanisms, emphasizing the need for larger, well-designed studies to evaluate the effectiveness of ET in improving outcomes for HFpEF patients.
Clinical predictors of successful outcomes for couples with nonobstructive azoospermic male partners undergoing micro-TESE
Authors: Kavoussi Parviz K , Gherabi Nazim , Saleh Ramadan
Published: July 2024

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is the most challenging and complex clinical scenario for infertile men. Besides circumstances such as hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, surgical sperm retrieval is typically necessary, and microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) is the procedure of choice for men with NOA desiring to father children with their own gametes. Micro-TESE results in the highest numbers of sperm cells retrieved for use with in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in comparison to all other techniques for surgical sperm retrieval in men with NOA. Several factors may affect sperm retrieval rate and ICSI outcomes, including the patient’s age, testicular volume, histopathological and genetic profile, and serum hormone levels. This article aims to review the medical literature describing predictors of successful micro-TESE and the outcomes of ICSI in men with NOA.
Optical coherence tomography angiography findings in high myopia
Authors: Basiony Ahmed I. , Mandour Sameh S. , Mohamed Hamsa M.M. , Ibrahim Asmaa M.
Published: July 2024

Background

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a sophisticated ophthalmic imaging technique, enables us to obtain images of blood vessels and blood flow at different levels of the retina and choroid without the use of contrast. Therefore, its potential application could be useful in the early detection of retinal vascular and macular pathologies and to recognize the pathogenesis of various ophthalmic diseases.

Aim

In this study, OCTA was utilized to detect the macular changes in eyes with high myopia.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study was carried out at the Department of Ophthalmology of Menoufia University Hospital according to the Helsinki Declaration and the Code of Ethics for Human Research of the World Medical Association and after obtaining approval of the institutional review board (IRB) 10/2022 OPHT 32. A total of 152 eyes of the study participants were included in this study and were divided into group A, which includes 76 eyes of highly myopic participants (>−6 D), and group B includes 76 eyes of nonmyopic (emmetropic) participants.

Result

In our study, there was a high statistically significant difference between the studied groups as regards axial length. In group A, it was 27.26±0.74 mm, while in group B, it was 23.14±0.73 mm (P<0.001). Regarding the comparison between studied cases according to the superficial and deep vascular density (SVD and DVD), there was a statistically significant difference between the studied groups. As regards overall SVD in group A, it was 46.48±4.78 while in group B, it was 51.78±2.8 (P<0.001). Meanwhile, the overall DVD in group A was 56.67±3.98, while in group B was 58.76±2.27 (P<0.001).

Conclusion

In the light of our study, OCTA shows significantly reduced SVD and DVD in eyes with high axial myopia, which could be an important aspect of understanding the natural history and etiology of pathologic myopia.
Impact of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to peribulbar anesthesia on the retinal vasculature in glaucoma patients: an optical coherence tomography angiography study
Authors: Awwad Mohamed A. , Elhadad Mona A , Masoud Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To assess Dexmedetomidine’s effect as an adjuvant to peribulbar anesthesia on the retinal vasculature in patients with glaucoma undergoing cataract extraction surgery via optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A).

Participants

Thirty-nine glaucoma participants planned for phacoemulsification were allocated into two groups. A 10 ml mixture of peribulbar anesthesia was administered to group I. This anesthetic mixture consisted of 4.5 ml of lidocaine 2% mixed with 4.5 ml of bupivacaine 0.5%,1 ml of dexmedetomidine (50 µg), and 150 IU hyaluronidase. Group II was administered a peribulbar anesthetic mixture consisting of 4.5 ml of lidocaine 2% combined with 4.5 ml of bupivacaine 0.5%,150 IU of hyaluronidase, and 1 ml of normal saline, totaling 10 ml. Optical coherence tomography angiography was used 10 mi before and 10 min after injection to scan optic disc total vessel density, foveal superficial deep capillary plexuses (DCP) density, radial peripapillary capillary network density, and total vessel density plus foveal avascular zone (FAZ) diameter. We also checked the intraocular pressure (IOP) before and 10 min after the anesthetic injection.

Results

After the administration of the peribulbar anesthetic, group II demonstrated a notably higher significance in the DCP fovea median percent change (–43.7%) compared with group I (-2%) (P<0.001). Additionally, group II experienced a considerably greater median percent change in DCP total density (–22.4%) postinjection compared to group I (–0.8%) (Pvalue < 0.001). The postinjection median percent changes in foveal total vessel density and superficial vessel density were −16.2% and −56.8% in group II, and −1% and −2.4% in group I, respectively, with aPvalue less than 0.001. Moreover, following the injection, the median percentage change in the diameter of the foveal avascular zone was significantly higher in group II (–40.6%) than in group I (–2.3%) (Pvalue < 0.001). Additionally, there was a noteworthy increase in the optic disc’s total vessel density and the median percentage shift in radial peripapillary capillary network density in group II (–13.1 and −13.7%, respectively) compared with group I (–1.2 and −1%, respectively,Pvalue < 0.001). IOP before and after injecting the anesthesia was insignificantly different between the studied groups (P=0.198 and 0.069, respectively).

Conclusion

The addition of dexmedetomidine to the peribulbar anesthesia demonstrates a protective effect on the retinal microvasculature against the ischemic impact of anesthetic drugs with no significant effect on the IOP. This effect holds significant implications for glaucoma patients.
Early versus late initiation of infliximab for refractory uveitis in a cohort of Egyptian BD patients
Authors: Fadel Mariam R. , AboulNaga Shereen H. , ElGhobashy Nehal , Mohamed Sally S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Behçet’s syndrome is a multisystem inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers, genital ulcers, skin lesions, and uveitis. Ocular involvement, occurring roughly in 50% of patients, is one of the most feared complications of Behçet’s syndrome. Recurrent severe uveitis leads to irreversible severe vision loss.

Purpose

The main goals in the management of patients with Behçet’s uveitis are rapid resolution of intraocular inflammation, prevention of recurrent attacks, and achievement of complete remission and preservation of vision. Corticosteroids are generally used for the treatment of acute episodes of inflammation. According to the updated EULAR recommendations for the management of BS ‘any patient with BS and inflammatory eye disease affecting the posterior segment should be on a treatment regime such as azathioprine, cyclosporine-A, interferon alpha or monoclonal tumor necrosis factor alpha antagonists.

Methods

Infliximab has been increasingly used in the treatment of Behçet’s syndrome patients with uveitis when they are refractory to conventional immunosuppressive therapy. However, there is no consensus on the best time to start anti- tumor necrosis factor alpha therapy. In our study we evaluated the outcome of early initiation of infliximab for refractory uveitis in cohort of Egyptian Behçet’s syndrome patients.

Conclusion

Early administration of Intravenous Infliximab therapy for severe sight-threatening uveitis and chorioretinitis in Egyptian Behçet’s syndrome patients has a favorable value regarding BCVA. Multidisciplinary approach in managing Behçet’s uveitis is mandatory to reach better functional visual outcome.
Health-Promoting Lifestyle Factors Among Opioid-Dependent Patients: A Scoping Review
Authors: Negi Parvender Singh , Mathur Rahul , Sarkar Siddharth
Published: July 2024

The health deficits of individuals with opioid use disorders have received considerable attention, especially in the context of risky behaviors, injection drug use, and HIV infection. Health-promoting behaviors and lifestyles play an important role in influencing numerous diseases in today’s world, including substance use disorders. The present review aimed to report on the health-promoting lifestyle factors among patients with opioid dependence. A literature search was done from May to June 2023, covering 30 years, and focused on English-language peer-reviewed journals in PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, and Medknow. An electronic search was used for specific keywords related to opioids and health-promoting behaviors. Data extraction was done according to health-promoting lifestyle dimensions enunciated by Walker: Physical activity, nutrition, spiritual growth, stress management, health responsibility, and interpersonal relations.
Serotonin Syndrome in an Adolescent Following Overdose of Escitalopram and Lithium: A Case Report
Authors: Sharma Namita , Saini Yash , Grover Sandeep
Published: July 2024

In routine clinical practice, some patients consume overdose of more than one medication, that makes it difficult to identify the toxic syndrome. In this report, we present the case of a 16-year female who was brought to the emergency with an alleged account of an overdose of tablet lithium and tablet escitalopram. A 16-year female, suffering from depression for about 4-months, and was on treatment consumed approximately 3000 mg of lithium and 150 mg of escitalopram with the intention to die. At presentation (after 12 h of the overdose), her Glasgow Coma Scale score was E3V1M6, her blood pressure was 70/50 mm Hg, her pulse rate was 84 beats/min, her respiratory rate was 24 breaths/min, and she was afebrile. On physical examination, she was found to have diaphoresis, mydriasis, ocular clonus, patellar clonus, ankle clonus, hyperreflexia, rigidity, increased bowel sound, and whole-body tremulousness. On mental state examination she was found to be delirious to stuporous. In view of the toxicity, initially a diagnosis of serotonin syndrome and lithium toxicity was considered. Considering the availability of antidote, it was decided to manage the patient first in the line of serotonin syndrome. She should dramatic improvement with cyproheptadine and stabilized in 48 h. Her lithium levels also normalized with supportive management during the same time frame. The index case highlights the fact that when a patient presents with toxicity of more than one psychotropic, with antidepressants being one of them, SS should always be suspected and managed rapidly with the antidote.
Online Exposure and Response Prevention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Case Report
Authors: Mishra Eepsita , Grover Sandeep
Published: July 2024

Over the years, there has been an increase in the use of telepsychiatry services for the management of various psychiatric disorders. In terms of the management of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), emerging data suggests that exposure and response prevention (ERP) can be done through telepsychiatry services. However, most of this data are in terms of short-term outcomes. In this case report, we present the information of two sisters, who presented with OCD and were managed with a combination of antiobessional agents and ERP for 2 years. For ERP, one of the two patients was managed with self-exposure, and at the same time acted as co-therapist for the second patient.
Some Hematological Indices as Predictors of Survival in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Patients
Authors: Faraj Yusur Falah , Salih Khalid Mahdi , Khelif Abderrahim
Published: July 2024

Background:

Despite the promising of introduction of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) remains a significant cause of annual mortality. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are parameters derived from a complete blood count (CBC) commonly used to diagnose anemia, autoimmune diseases, and inflammation. These parameters have been reported to have a strong association with various diseases, including hematologic malignancies.

Objectives:

The study aims to identify whether RDW, NLR, and PLR can act as predictors of survival in newly diagnosed and treated CML patients.

Materials and Methods:

The study involved 60 Iraqi patients (37 males, 23 females, aged 17–69 years) with CML at chronic phase, who were referred to the National Center of Hematology/Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, from February 2022 to December 2022. Twenty were newly diagnosed (T0), and 40 were under TKI treatment (T+), with 20 on imatinib and 20 on nilotinib. Additionally, a control group of 20 age- and gender-matched healthy subjects was included. CBC assessed red blood cell (RBC) indices across all groups.

Results:

There was no significant difference in the age of CML patients at the onset of disease between males (34.5 ± 11.7 years) and females (34 ± 11.9 years). Likewise, there was no significant difference in the treatment of CML patients with imatinib or nilotinib between males (48% and 52%) and females (53.3% and 47.7%), respectively. Most RBC indices for patients and controls were within normal ranges without significant differences. However, RDW% in T0 was markedly elevated (20.4%), with about 80% showing anisocytosis, surpassing both T+ and controls, and exceeding the upper limit of normal. The total and differential white blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly higher in T0 compared to T+, exceeding their normal ranges. Additionally, the NLR was significantly higher in T0 (8.13) compared with T+ and controls (1.80 and 1.87, respectively). Platelet count, mean platelet volume, and platelet distribution width (PDW%) differed significantly among the three groups but remained within the normal range. However, PLR in T0 (31 ± 24) was significantly lower than those in T+ and controls (130 ± 43 and 102 ± 27, respectively).

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that the monitoring of some parameters in peripheral blood in CBC test (as a simple and inexpensive test) such as RDW%, NLR%, and PLR% during the therapy course of CML patients may act as predictive markers to evaluate the prognosis of disease in CML patients and the degree of response to certain TKI treatment.
Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Patients with Acromegaly: A Comparative Study between those with and without Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Hammood Shaymaa Dheyab , Ali Eham Amer , Rahmah Abbas Mahdi
Published: July 2024

Background:

Acromegaly is a rare endocrine disorder; it has an incidence of 4 per million annually and a prevalence of 40 per million. It is due to growth hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma. The objective of our study is to evaluate the levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients with acromegaly with and without obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Materials and Methods:

One hundred five registered patients with acromegaly in the National Diabetes Center-Mustansiriyah University were enrolled in the study. Out of 105 patients with acromegaly, 81 have OSA while the remaining 24 have no OSA. OSA affects 81.8% of males and 72% of females. All recruited patients have given oral consent to participate in the study which was conducted during the period from January to October 2023.

Results:

Males with OSA had a mean age of 52 years while those without OSA had a mean age of 46 years. Epworth Sleepiness Scale is higher among those with OSA. BNP is found to be higher in females with OSA (905.54 pg/ml) while in males with OSA, it drops down to 878.76 pg/ml. In no OSA group, the BNP level was 355.33 ± 30.1 pg/ml while in those with OSA, it jumped to 890.66 ± 205.63 pg/ml.

Conclusions:

The results showed that BNP was elevated in patients with acromegaly and OSA versus those without OSA, OSA is more common in males particularly when they get older.
The Impact of Psychological, Social, Societal, and Economic Factors Leading to Relapse in Patients Recovered from Addiction
Authors: Al-Musway Jasim Mohammed Hashim
Published: July 2024

Background:

The problem of using psychotropic substances and addiction has become one of the major problems in the world. Despite the significant increase in treatment programs of addiction, many studies indicate that the rate of relapse globally is very high, especially when treatment is limited to the medical side only.

Aims:

The study aims to determine the percentage of influence of psychological, societal, social, economic, and other factors that lead to relapse when recovering from addiction.

Methods:

This study conducted in two main hospitals for the treatment of substance use disorders in Baghdad (Ibn Rushud Teaching Hospital for Psychiatry and Al-Ataa Center for Addiction Treatment) through the period from January 10, 2023, to June 10, 2023. All (300 inpatient) who are suffering from relapse to addiction after recovery were included in the study. The scale was prepared for the psychological, social, therapeutic, environmental, and economic factors, which was used by a group of senior doctors working in the field of treatment of addiction and rehabilitation centers, who unanimously agreed with their expertise on these factors.

Results:

This study revealed that the most important factor for relapse is the availability of addictive substances (91%); other factors include psychological, social pressures that the addict is exposed to in his social environment, in addition to the loss of social support (76%). The pressure of friends or peers with a rate of (78%) and the weakness of family control (44%) in addition to the influence of other factors that were examined in this study.

Conclusion:

There are many factors affecting the return of those recovering from addiction to addiction again, and the most prominent of these factors is the abundance or ease of access to psychoactive substances in addition to other factors, which include (psychological, social, societal, and economic factors). Society must realize that the responsibility for preventing addiction should not be borne by the medical treatment alone, because it is a problem that must be dealt with collectively by all parties to enable recovered patients from addiction to build their lives with confidence.