bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Du charivari français au « chalbari » créole à la Martinique
Authors: Confiant Raphaël
Published: December 2024

Ancienne coutume paysanne française, le « charivari », manifestation semi-improvisée visant pour un quartier ou un village à se gausser d’unions matrimoniales dépareillées (un vieux avec une jeune femme, une riche veuve avec un jeune homme sans le sou, etc.) en organisant la nuit des noces et parfois les jours d’après, autour du domicile des nouveaux époux, un vacarme de tous les diables à l’aide d’instruments de musique également improvisés, fut transplanté aux Antilles à compter du XVIIe siècle par les colons de basse extraction dits « Petits Blancs ». Cette pratique rituelle qui, en Europe, visait, sous des dehors carnavalesques, à assurer le contrôle du groupe sur la matrimonialité et à renforcer la monogamie s’est créolisée sous le nom de « chalbari » en prenant une signification tout à fait différente dans des sociétés insulaires marquées par la rareté des femmes sur fond de génocide des Amérindiens et d’esclavage des Noirs. Il y a d’abord le souci de pérennisation des enclaves de colonisation grâce à un apport constant de colons et d’esclaves jeunes et donc en âge de fonder une famille dans le premier cas et de se reproduire dans le second, ce qui exigeait un stock de femmes disponibles et donc non susceptibles d’être accaparées par le biais d’unions dépareillées. Il y a ensuite des relations de voisinage spécifiques, marquées par la jalousie et la sorcellerie, au sein de cette anti-société qu’était la société esclavagiste et même, très longtemps, post-esclavagiste. Enfin, du « charivari » français au « chalbari » antillais se donnent à lire les mécanismes subtils d’adaptation-transformation-recréation qui sont au cœur du processus dit de « créolisation ».
Chants tamouls aux Antilles : un patrimoine entre écrit et oral
Authors: Murugaiyan Appasamy
Published: December 2024

Au Pays tamoul et dans le reste du monde indien, la tradition textuelle fut conçue, conservée et transmise oralement de génération en génération. La fixation du texte par écrit interviendra par la suite. Cependant, certains types de savoirs et de savoir-faire traditionnels y sont encore transmis oralement, la source écrite apparaissant comme un recours en cas de défaillance de l’oralité. Les deux systèmes, oral et scriptural, coexistent donc en Inde. Par contre, au sein de la descendance tamoule de Martinique et de Guadeloupe, l’oralité seule a survécu. Aux Antilles françaises, le tamoul, qui n’est utilisé que lors des cultes et des rites familiaux, est devenu une langue sacrée. Il semble qu’un répertoire qui s’élèverait à de plus de quatre-cents chants, prières et pièces de théâtre y ait été préservé et transmis oralement depuis plus de 150 ans. Deux terrains de recherche dans ces îles nous ont permis d’enregistrer une cinquantaine de chants. L’analyse de ceux-ci nous a conduits à constater des changements linguistiques considérables par rapport au tamoul actuellement parlé en Inde, changements dus notamment au contact avec les langues des îles et à la perte progressive de l’emploi de la langue tamoule. Mais malgré ces changements, nous avons pu » reconstituer » certains de ces chants en nous appuyant sur des textes imprimés en Inde au début du XXe siècle. Par ailleurs, depuis une trentaine d’années, les Antillais d’origine tamoule rétablissent des contacts avec l’Inde et le Pays tamoul et montrent un regain d’intérêt pour la langue de leurs ancêtres.
Indétermination nominale et aspect en créole martiniquais et en créole haïtien
Authors: Damoiseau Robert
Published: December 2024

Cette étude vise à mettre en évidence les liens étroits, pour chacun des deux créoles concernés, entre l’indétermination du syntagme nominal et le fonctionnement de leur système aspecto-temporel. Elle conduit à dégager les traits propres à chacun des deux systèmes pour ce qui est de l’expression de l’aspect et elle permet notamment de cerner le champ de l’opposition de type : imperfectif/perfectif qui les structure.
Héroïsme et marginalité dans l’œuvre de Reinaldo Arenas : Notes sur El Portero et Antes que anochezca (autobiografía)
Authors: Aubou Audrey
Published: December 2024

Reinaldo Arenas (1943-1990) est une voix singulière dans le panorama de la littérature cubaine contemporaine. D’abord militant révolutionnaire et encensé par la critique pour son talent précoce d’écrivain, il se heurte dès les années 1960 à un régime qui nie son droit à la différence et à la liberté, tant sur le plan sexuel que sur le plan littéraire. Le combat qui s’engage dès lors entre Arenas et le régime révolutionnaire, qui ne se résoudra que la mort du premier, se traduit dans l’œuvre narrative du Cubain par une tension dynamique et structurelle entre héroïsme et marginalité. Deux de ses œuvres tardives, El portero et Antes que anochezca, mettent en lumière la valeur, à la fois esthétique, symbolique et idéologique, qu’accorde cet auteur à la notion de marginalité ainsi que sa vision bien particulière du héros, dans le contexte du Cuba d’après1959.
Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain et l’étude des contes haïtiens : enquête, classification et analyses
Authors: Otilien Ethson
Published: December 2024

Cet article examine les méthodes d’enquête, de classification et d’analyses utilisées par Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain (SCS) dans Les Contes haïtiens. Ire [sic] et IIe partie (1937), Le Roman de Bouqui (1940), et Creole Tales from Haiti, publié en 2 volumes (1937 et 1938) dans The Journal of American Folklore. L’objectif est de comprendre la pertinence de ces méthodes et d’évaluer la contribution éventuelle de la chercheuse à l’ethnographie haïtienne et à l’étude des contes. L’examen de ces trois ouvrages nous permet de constater que SCS, au-delà des réserves que l’on peut avoir sur la mémorisation comme méthode de collecte, a mené ses enquêtes avec clairvoyance et objectivité, même face aux contraintes des avancées techniques et scientifiques de son époque, des ressources limitées et des questions ou obstacles épistémologiques qu’elles pouvaient soulever. Nous observons une cohérence dans sa démarche, marquée par un souci d’évolution constante, même si celle-ci mérite d’être affinée. Si l’analyse des motifs et des incidents dans une perspective comparatiste est une condition nécessaire pour identifier l’origine d’un conte, il est légitime de se demander si elle est suffisante pour examiner les influences impliquées dans le processus d’« assimilation » ou de création des contes.
Haitians in Africa and Africa in Haiti: Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain and Changing Views of Africa Among Haiti’s Elite
Authors: Robertshaw Matthew
Published: December 2024

The people of Haiti have deep roots in Africa. The legacy of diverse African people groups is evident in the Kreyòl language, the Vodou religion, and in Haiti’s folklore and cultural practices. Yet for nearly a century after the country proclaimed its independence in 1804 there was virtually no direct contact between Haiti and Africa. The first known Haitian to travel to Africa did not set foot on the continent until 1897. As a result, while the day-to-day lives of Haiti’s masses were in many ways similar to those of their distant relatives in Africa, elite Haitians only had a vague understanding of the continent. While rural people preserved memories of the continent in their songs and folklore, elite Haitians tended to think about Africa and its people through the lens of a European worldview. Though at least five Haitians travelled to Africa between 1897 and 1935, they largely shared the biases of their class to the extent that they tended to support European colonialism on the continent, if only conditionally. In the middle of the XXth century, however, one Haitian woman helped revolutionize the Haitian elite perspectives of Africa. Throughout her decades-long career, Comhaire-Sylvain did numerous stints of fieldwork in Africa, meticulously documenting the cultural links between the continent and her homeland. This work helped elite Haitians come to terms with the rich and rooted culture of their poorer compatriots which they had long viewed as primitive and simplistic. Thus, Comhaire-Sylvain was able to reinforce the historic bonds between the first Black Republic and its ancestral continent and contribute to the restoration of a spiritual bridge that crossed the Atlantic.
‘In Search of the Sylvain Sisters’: Spouses and Siblings in the Socio-Anthropological Nexus of the Haitian Diaspora
Authors: Gyssels Kathleen
Published: December 2024

In this article, with a nod to Zora Neale Hurston1, I first position Suzanne Comhaire-Sylvain (1898–1975) in a line of couples working together in the field of anthropology (especially Alfred Métraux and his different spouses). I then continue with Suzanne’s younger sister Madeleine (1905–1970), while choosing another discipline, sociology, also covered a vast field of the human sciences. Through the ‘Ligue féminine d’action sociale’ and La Voix des femmes, she was able to fight for the emancipation of Haitian women and together with her sisters and peers worked hard for the improvement of the peasantry and their children. While Suzanne was the first female anthropologist, her sister became the first female sociologist. Both have obtained their Ph.D.’s from prestigious foreign universities (Sorbonne and Bryn Mawr, respectively). In a second part, I focus more on the respective role between partners Jean Comhaire and Suzanne Sylvain. Jean Comhaire has worked together with his wife in Haiti, Congo, Senegal, and finally in Nsukka (Nigeria). Finally, in a last part, I elaborate on the invisibility of Suzanne whose tombstone has only recently seem to have been identified. Belonging to a pioneering group of female Haitian activists, their burden under the rule of dictators has inspired some of the most influential female authors today. In other words, traces of this lost generation’s sacrifices and scars appear in female writing and contrast sharply with the ‘géo-libertinage’ of Dany Laferrière and fellow authors, such as Raphaël Confiant.
Et du coté des enseignants ? Processus d’historicisation et développement professionnel. Réponse à Anne-Sophie Cayet
Authors: Thamin Nathalie
Published: December 2024

Cet article s’inscrit dans l’axe 3 de la Journée NEQ 2023 : « Approche du sujet interprétant par la mise en histoire des enseignant.e.s et des chercheur.e.s ». La mise en dialogue avec la contribution d’A-S. Cayet propose une articulation entre l’approche du sujet-enseignant, la posture réflexive et l’identité professionnelle sollicités/suscités dans le cadre des formations conçues et des recherches collaboratives à destination d’enseignants et de leur développement professionnel en contexte diversitaire (Huver et Bel, 2015) : comment/en quoi les formations constituent-elles des espaces qui impliquent historicisation, réflexivité, agentivité ? Quelles démarches et activités sont susceptibles de les favoriser ? Quels sont les points de tension ?
Barrialización, violencia(s) y fronteras urbanas: los ejemplos de la “huelga de la carne” de Santiago de Chile (1905) y de la “huelga de inquilinos” de Buenos Aires (1907)
Authors: Fernández Domingo Enrique
Published: December 2024

La modernización de las capitales suramericanas que tiene lugar durante el final del siglo XIX y principios del siglo XX, produce una barrialización de los espacios de vida y los espacios vividos de sus habitantes. Este cambio de paradigma urbano se acompaña de una producción de representaciones que marcan las “fronteras imaginadas" de los barrios urbanos. A partir de esta idea, este artículo propone comparar la resignificación que se lleva a cabo del espacio urbano de Santiago de Chile y Buenos Aires a partir del estudio de los acontecimientos de la “huelga de la carne” (1905) y la “huelga de inquilinos” (1907) y de las nociones de frontera y violencia.
Working through trauma and self-writing in Leonora Carrington’s Down Below
Authors: Magalhães Salvi Ana Carolina
Published: December 2024

Leonora Carrington has awakened significant interest in feminist and gender studies since the 1970s-1980s, first in Europe, the USA, and Mexico — where she resided for seventy years — and much more recently in Brazil and South America. The artist often drew from biographical elements and alchemic processes in the making of her artwork, being Down Below (both literary account and painting) among the most significant of such endeavours. In it, the artist works on narrating the events that led her to a Spanish sanatorium, her period there and her escape from it, along with the reconfiguring of the experience symbolically, and forging of subjectivity. It is in this sense that this paper analyses it in its double feature of psychoanalytical working through and Foucauldian self-writing, traversed by a feminist mode of subjectivation and practice of freedom.
La Ballena de Papel. Análisis de la sintaxis de una revista como política cultural, ventana al pasado y dispositivo de exhibición.
Authors: Giménez Victoria Lembo
Published: December 2024

En este trabajo se analiza la Revista La Ballena de Papel (1968-1972, Maldonado, Uruguay) entendiendo la publicación como una política cultural debido a que se trató de una acción implementada desde la sociedad con la intención de intervenir en la cultura. En este sentido, buscamos conocer las razones que motivaron la realización de la publicación y también, lo que finalmente se logró hacer. Asimismo, la consideramos como una ventana al pasado, es decir, como una fuente privilegiada para conocer los intereses, preocupaciones y debates sobre la política, la historia, la cultura y el arte que tuvieron lugar en una ciudad de un Departamento del Uruguay a fines de los años sesenta. Por último, la analizamos como un dispositivo pensado para producir conocimiento, difundir información, “valores” e imágenes, al margen de lo establecido y a la vez, como lugar de exhibición de lo invisible.
Applying an Intersectional Lens: Oláh Mara OMARA and the Politics of Care.
Authors: Popovics Viktoria
Published: December 2024

Known for her socio-critical paintings, autobiographical works dealing with personal traumas and subversive actions, Oláh Mara OMARA (1945-2020) is an internationally acknowledged Hungarian artist of Roma origin. As a self-taught artist who started painting at the age of 43, OMARA was considered a “naïve gypsy painter” until her recognition as a contemporary artist in the late 2000s. With her unconventional artistic practice, she challenged the art historical canon and pioneered the introduction of Roma resistance into contemporary art institutions. This essay seeks to examine the interrelation between social conditions and artistic production, the intersections of gender, ethnicity, social status, age, motherhood, and disability in OMARA’s art, and thus, to shed light on the manifestations of intersectional discrimination in Hungarian art and society.
Investigating the Synergistic Impact of TiB2 and ZrO2 Reinforcements on Forged AA7075-Based Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Chikkamath Adavayya Sangayya , Meti Vinod Kumar V. , Siddhalingeshwar I.G.
Published: December 2024

In today's automotive, aerospace, and high-temperature applications, there is a pressing demand for lightweight, high-strength materials. Meeting these industry requirements necessitates the development of such materials through rigorous research efforts. This study is focused on synthesizing, characterizing, and exploring the mechanical and tribological properties of forged AA7075-based Hybrid Metal Matrix Composites (HMMCs) reinforced with TiB2 (titanium boride) and ZrO2 (zirconium oxide) particles. The composites were subjected to hot forging, and comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess their microstructural features, elemental composition, and phase distribution. Mechanical properties were evaluated to gauge the enhancements achieved by incorporating TiB2 and ZrO2 reinforcements. Tribological behavior was examined using a tribotester under diverse conditions to elucidate the influence of these particles on wear resistance and frictional characteristics, thereby shedding light on potential applications in demanding tribological environments. This investigation incorporates varying percentages of ZrO2 (zirconium dioxide) by weight (4% and 6%) and TiB2 particles at 5% by weight into an AA7075 matrix alloy to synthesize a composite material. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) micrographs illustrate the uniform distribution of ZrO2 and TiB2 particles achievable through the stir casting and grain refinement after the forging process. Experimental results demonstrate that the addition of ZrO2 and TiB2 particles enhances the hardness and tensile strength of the AA7075/ZrO2/TiB2 composite compared to the base matrix material, with the AA7075/5%TiB2/4%ZrO2 composite exhibiting the highest hardness and strength among all variants. At the same time, tribological evaluations underscored enhanced wear resistance and frictional performance, indicating suitability for applications where tribological stability and mechanical strength are paramount. This investigation contributes valuable insights to developing advanced MMCs for high-performance engineering applications, demonstrating that the forging technique facilitates fine grain refinement, enhancing the abovementioned properties. Furthermore, the study identifies notable property improvements achieved through the forging process.
Effect of Benzotriazole-Silver-Based Capping System on Porosity of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Eco-Friendly Materials of Rice Husk
Authors: Rumiyanti Leni , Garcia Shania , Syamsuri Muhammad Mahfudz Fauzi , Junaidi Junaidi , Istiqomah Nurul Imani , Chotimah Chotimah , Suharyadi Edi
Published: December 2024

The mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) is a material with easily controllable pore size and excellent surface area to develop into a corrosion inhibitor nanocarrier, a protective coating specially produced by a nanocomposite layer to keep or release anticorrosive active compounds. Nonetheless, the MSN is not weakness-free, which cannot impede corrosion propagation actively. Special treatment for overcoming is developing the benzotriazole-silver (BTA-Ag)-based capping system, with advantages that can exploit the double anticorrosive mechanism by adjusting anticorrosive active compound release while capturing chloride ions, leading to active self-healing. Therefore, this work identifies the effect of developing a capping system based on BTA-Ag on the porosity properties of MSN as an initial step in preparing corrosion inhibitor nanocarrier. Rice husks were chosen as eco-friendly materials to replace commercial precursors because of their abundance, the same orthosilicate structure, and the high purity of silica. With excellent levels of safety and uniformity, this work uses the sol-gel method to reduce the synthesis energy or cost. The outcome indicates that the porosity characteristics of these nanoparticles are significantly impacted by the BTA-Ag-based capping method. The pore size shrank to 2.5 nm from 2.6 nm. Additionally, the surface area decreased dramatically from 653.149 to 41.725 m2/g. Moreover, the pore volume dropped from 0.9 to 0.1 cm3/g. However, it had a comparable morphology, varied in size, and a specific aggregation level, indicating the presence of densely packed rod-like micelles during the MSN synthesis. The sample was confirmed to be porous since the isotherm graph was of type IV. It was highly reactive due to silanol and siloxane groups, signaling bonds with the silica matrix being the main component.
The Electrical Performance of Ester-Based Iron Oxide Nanofluids Incorporating Tween 20 Surfactant
Authors: Amran Mohd Uwais , Hussin Nuriziani , Azizan Nurin Ainanie , Mohd Khalil Ahmad Nabil , Rahman Rahisham Abd
Published: December 2024

Nanoparticles' unique properties, such as their huge surface area, higher thermal conductivity, and increased dielectric strength, make them appealing candidates for high voltage insulation applications. The choice of a suitable surfactant is critical in the creation of nanofluids. The ratio of hydrophilic to lipophilic (HLB) values, which ratio up the hydrophilic and lipophilic structure of the surfactant, is normally considered in the selection of suitable surfactant for the nanofluid. Surfactant with HLB value less than 6 is said to be more suitable for oil base nanofluids. Recent research, however, indicated that the sediment generated by high and low HLB value surfactants is not significantly different. Tween 20 surfactant, while rarely used in this context due to its high HLB value, is an intriguing option due to its affordable cost and excellent properties. Its distinct features, such as low toxicity, and strong emulsification capacity, make it an appealing candidate for stabilizing and dispersing nanoparticles in nanofluid compositions. In this research, tween 20 was used in the preparation of palm oil (PO) and palm fatty acid ester oil (PFAE) based nanofluids. Iron (II,III) Oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticle was introduced to the nanofluids at high, medium and low concentrations. The nanofluids were evaluated in terms of its breakdown strength and dielectric properties. The alternating current (AC) breakdown and dielectric properties were conducted based on the IEC 60156 and ASTM D924 Standard respectively. Tween 20 has positive impact on shortening down the sonication period by 10 % and 33.3 % for PO and PFAE based nanofluids, respectively, while elongating the sedimentation period for PO nanofluids. The breakdown voltage improved by 40% and 18% for PO based nanofluid and PFAE based nanofluid, respectively. Even at low concentrations, the inclusion of Fe3O4 nanoparticles improved breakdown strength, and breakdown voltage distributions offered useful information. The addition of nanoparticles slightly increases the relative permittivity of the base oils. Fe3O4 nanoparticle and tween 20 surfactant has successfully improved the dielectric loss of the base oil with the lowest value recorded at 0.05 g/L, with 72.4 % and 36.8 % improvement for PO and PFAE based nanofluids, respectively. These results proved that tween 20 is suitable for oil-based nanofluids applications.
Optimized Performance of Piezo-Driven Jet Actuator for Thixotropic Epoxies in Electronics Assembly
Authors: Agarwal Sunny
Published: December 2024

The electronic assembly industry’s growing need for

advanced packaging and miniaturization calls for a more automated,

regulated process with higher units per hour and tighter tolerance

levels. This article deals with an advanced low-volume fluid dispensing

process on various substrates using new jet dispensing technology

on a faster and more accurate platform. Jetting has been widely used

to jet out material in small quantities for various purposes. By striking

a piston over a seat, jetting technology helps dispense fluid droplets

from the nozzle tip and propagate them toward the substrate in

a precise volume A new jet dispensing valve with a piezoelectric base

improves performance and stability over time by depositing thixotropic

adhesive materials within tighter tolerances in smaller volumes.

One noticeably clear advantage is the ability to control the droplet

size as a function of piston lift with good volume control. The ability

to deposit small masses consistently and precisely, with droplet

placement accuracy is determined by the relationship between the

commanded and actual positions in two-dimensional spaces, which

is what defines performance. The new feed-forward control piezodriven

jet valve hardware, which demonstrates faster performance

with necessary valve stability equivalent to the assembly production

environment, resolves two major challenging factors: dispense accuracy

and throughput. This article addresses dispensing requirements

like droplet dispense quality, droplet placement accuracy, droplet

circularity, and line dispense quality.
Mobility Medicine: A call to unify hyper-fragmented specialties by abstracts sent to 2025Pdm3, and typescripts to Ejtm3, and Diagnostics
Authors: Carraro Ugo , Alberty Marie Sophie , Anton Stephen , Barbieri Elena , Bersch Ines , Blaauw Bert , Bosco Gerardo , Forni Riccardo , Ganassi Massimo , Gargiulo Paolo , Gentil Paulo , Gorgey Ashraf S. , Leeuwenburgh Christiaan , Maccarone Maria Chiara , Martini Alessandro , Masiero Stefano , Mayr Winfried , Messina Giuseppe , Morra Aldo , Narici Marco , Ohlendieck Kay , Perrin Philippe , Pond Amber , Quadrelli Marco , Rosati Riccardo , Sestili Piero , Smeriglio Piera , Sweeney H. Lee , Tavian Daniela , Volk Gerd Fabian
Published: December 2024

Mega scientific conferences increasingly suffer from the need for short and poster presentations without discussion. An alternative is to organize workshops in hotels large enough to accommodate all participants. This significantly increases the opportunities for constructive discussion during breakfasts, lunches, dinners and long evenings that can bring together experts of scientific and clinical sub-specialties and young fellows. Time for groups' discussions and new collaborations are increased so as the job opportunities for the young researchers. The Padova Muscle Days have offered in the previous thirty-five years these opportunities, which have matured into innovative and multidisciplinary results to the point that it came naturally to underline it with a neologism now included in the title of the 2025 event: “Mobility Medicine”, a discipline not yet officially recognised, that makes explicit the call for rejoining knowledges dispersed in sub-specialisations. The included program of the Padua Days on Muscle and Mobility Medicine 2025 (2025Pdm3) will be hosted at the Hotel Petrarca in Euganean Thermae (Padua, Italy) from 25 to 29 March 2025. It further testifies by listing unique Sessions that it is possible to organize valid countermeasures to the inevitable tendencies towards hyperspecialization that the explosive increase in scientific progress brings with it. Furthermore, the European Journal of Translational Myology and Mobility Medicine (Ejtm3) will accept typescripts on results presented at the 2025Pdm3, together with the Special Section: New Trends in Musculoskeletal Imaging of the MDPI (Basel) Journal Diagnostics, because diagnosis is essential to prevent, manage and follow-up not only neuro-metabolic-muscular disorders, but the unavoidable physiologicical decay of performances in early and late aging. Hoping many others share our dreams, we look forward to meeting you at 2025Pdm3 conference.
Corrigendum: Revolution of South African public procurement in the Industry 4.0 era
Authors: Mojaki Lawrence M. , Tuyikeze Tite , Ndlovu Nkanyiso K.
Published: December 2024

No abstract available.
Outcomes of Facial Artery Musculomucosal Flap in Repair of Post-palatoplasty Fistula - A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ali Ahmed A. A. , Hasan Mohamed H. Osman
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Closure of palatal fistula is difficult due to excessive scarring of the palate after previous surgery. The facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap is considered a better option for palatal fistula closure due to its axial blood supply and minimal donor site morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of harvesting FAMM flap for closure of medium and large palatal fistulas in terms of its versatility, reliability, feeding and speech assessment.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with post-palatoplasty fistula admitted to the outpatient clinics of the Department of Plastic Surgery and the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery of Assiut University Hospital from March 2022 to February 2024.

Results:

Twenty patients aged 3–11 years, with female:male = 3:2 ratio, were included in the study. Two flaps experienced venous congestion and then partial flap necrosis. In addition, two flaps had wound dehiscence with mild infection. One patient experienced complete flap loss and then a late recurrent fistula. Most patients were able to feed well, except one patient was unable to swallow and had nasal regurgitation of fluids, that was relieved after second surgery by dorsally based tongue flap. Most patients had intelligible speech during verbal communication, only one patient had nasal tone and hypernasality and two patients were unable to communicate verbally.

Conclusion:

The FAMM flap is suitable for closing medium and large fistulas due to its versatility and vascular reliability. It has fewer complications and sufficient functional and aesthetic results.
Assessment of the Combined Effects of Heavy Metal Cobalt and Sublethal Radiation on the Immune System
Authors: Ilderbayeva Gulzhan , Utegenova Aigul , Ilderbayev Oralbek , Sembaeva Zhibek , Askarova Gulsum
Published: December 2024

Background:

The purpose of the study was to examine the effect of a sublethal dose of ionized radiation and a toxic dose of cobalt and their combined effect on the state of immunity in laboratory rats, as a biological object of research. For this purpose, three experimental and one control group of animals are formed on the principle of pairs of analogues to examine these factors. Therewith, immunological research methods are used.

Methods:

The main immunosuppressive manifestation of the toxic dose of cobalt on the humoral component of the immune response is noted.

Results:

There is a decrease in the concentration of immunoglobulins (Igs) of the main classes in blood serum by 17%–30% (P < 0.05). A combined negative effect of both factors is observed on the activity of humoral immunity. As a result, the serum levels of Ig A in Group 3 animals are reduced by 30.5% (P < 0.05), Ig M – by 35.7% (P < 0.05), and Ig G – by 30.7% (P < 0.05) compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Thus, the conducted studies allow determining the dependence of the immunosuppressive state of the urban population of Kazakhstan on a number of factors in a deteriorating environmental situation.
Effect of Tapuy (Philippine Rice Wine) Lees on the Gut Microbiota Profile and Lifespan under Normal and Stress Conditions in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Dela Cruz Ma Carmela P. , Medina Paul Mark B.
Published: December 2024

Background:

Tapuy lees are by-products generated during rice wine fermentation in the northern region of the Philippines. These lees have been reported to contain high concentrations of proteins and dietary fibers. However, studies showing the potential biological effects of consuming these lees are currently lacking. Thus, despite occasional local consumption, most Tapuy lees are discarded after rice wine production. To address this, the current study investigated the potential health effects of Tapuy lees consumption using Drosophila melanogaster as model.

Methods:

The effects of four Tapuy lees variants on the gut microbiome composition and lifespan under normal, heat stress, and starvation stress conditions were tested in D. melanogaster compared to a media-only negative control and the prebiotic inulin as positive control.

Results:

All tested Tapuy lees variants increased the abundance of probiotic gut bacteria in both male and female flies, comparable to the effect of the commercial prebiotic inulin. Moreover, Tapuy lees extended the lifespan of both male and female D. melanogaster under normal, heat stress, and starvation stress conditions.

Conclusions:

All in all, our results demonstrate the beneficial effects of Tapuy lees on the lifespan and gut microbiota composition in D. melanogaster. These findings suggest that Tapuy lees could be considered functional food products. Further studies are recommended to evaluate their potential benefits for human health.
The Importance of Diploma Nursing Courses in India: A Comparative Analysis with Developed Countries
Authors: Kalaimathi Ani Grace
Published: December 2024

Nursing education is crucial for maintaining a robust healthcare system, with diploma programmes playing a significant role in training the workforce. In India, the General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) diploma course has been pivotal in addressing healthcare needs, especially in underserved areas. The Indian Nursing Council’s recent policy to phase out the GNM diploma course in favour of standardising nursing education at the bachelor’s level has raised concerns about the implications for the country’s healthcare system. This article examines the importance of diploma nursing courses in India and compares them with Associate Degree in Nursing programmes in developed countries like the USA, Canada and Australia. The analysis reveals that diploma programmes in India not only address critical nursing shortages but also empower women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds by providing an affordable and accessible pathway to stable employment. While developed countries benefit from similar programmes that streamline entry into the nursing profession, the unique challenges faced by India necessitate continued support for its diploma courses. The comparative study underscores the indispensable role of diploma nursing courses in enhancing healthcare accessibility, supporting public health initiatives and contributing to economic and social empowerment. The evidence suggests that abolishing diploma programmes could exacerbate existing healthcare challenges, highlighting the need for a nuanced approach to nursing education policy in India.
A comparative analysis of physicochemical and antioxidant profiles of wild and cultivated Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Willd) roots
Authors: Debajyoti Chakraborty , Mahima Sharma , Nikhil Mehere , Shreshtha Kaushik , Arun Kumar , Divyani Singh , Giramalla Patil , Swapnil Chaudhary , Pramod Yadav , Galib Ruknuddin
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus Willd), known for its Rasayana, properties, holds significant medical, research, and economic values, especially due to its potent aphrodisiac attributes. However, the rising demand for A. racemosus has triggered unsustainable harvesting practices, habitat destruction, and deforestation, pushing the species toward endangerment in the wild. Due to its extensive utilization for medicinal and nutritional purposes, the cultivation of Shatavari has become increasingly essential to meet growing demand while alleviating pressure on wild populations. This study aims to generate a comparative analytical profile of cultivated Shatavari (CS) and wild Shatavari (WS).

METHODS:

Fresh roots of CS and WS were sourced from Gondia District and Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, respectively. The samples underwent authentication before analysis. A comprehensive evaluation was performed, including macroscopic and microscopic (powder) studies, organoleptic and physicochemical evaluations, and phytochemical screening. High-performance thin-layer chromatography was conducted for bioactive constituent identification (fingerprinting assay), followed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Pesticide residues were estimated using gas chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, whereas radical scavenging activity was assessed through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay.

RESULT:

The study reveals variations between WS and CS in the physicochemical, phytochemical, and antioxidant profiles. Both specimens demonstrated antioxidant potential (inhibitory concentration 50: 692.56 µg/mL for CS and 400.10 µg/mL for WS), indicating greater efficacy in WS than in the CS. The chromatographic assay showed that the bioactive constituent, β-sitosterol, was significantly higher in WS (20.08 µg/100 mg) than in the CS (4.628 µg/100 mg). WS exhibited a higher total ash value (WS: 10.37 ± 0.03 and CS: 3.69 ± 0.04) and lower water-soluble (WS: 65.73 ± 0.14 and CS: 39.29 ± 0.43) and alcohol-soluble extractives (WS: 23.66 ± 0.50 and CS: 17.78 ± 0.37) than in the CS, indicating substantial physicochemical differences between the two phytochemical screening further revealed the absence of proteins in CS. A critical finding of this study is the presence of pesticides in both specimens, which is not up to Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia standards.

CONCLUSION:

Despite the chromatographic and physicochemical parameters favoring WS, CS can be a viable alternative if cultivated under stringent Good Agricultural and Collection Practices. Pesticides in both sources underscore the need for rigorous quality control in both wild and cultivated Shatavari.
A Case Study and Critical Review on the Management of Rare Case of Sudden-Onset Auditory Neuropathy Spectrum Disorder in Pediatrics Through Ayurveda Rasayana Chikitsa
Authors: Rao Bhavya Bandahalli Madhusudhana , Udayabhaskar Arpitha Madakasira , Rao Shubhashree Malalur Nagesh , Sahoo Srinibash , Suresha Dharanesh , Bhat Sulochana
Published: December 2024

Auditory neuropathy spectrum disorder (ANSD) is a less common retrocochlear hearing disorder characterized by impaired speech perception. The general population incidence varies, but approximately 1–3 children/10,000 births are affected. With proper follow-up, medical devices, and therapies, a child with ANSD can develop good language, communication, and hearing skills. The present study demonstrates a case of a 14-year-old girl who was diagnosed as suffering from ANSD and reported to the Shalakya outpatient department with complaints of sudden-onset decreased hearing in both ears and declined speech understanding for 1 year. The treatment was planned based on Ayurvedic principles with Rasayana (rejuvenation therapy) and procedures like Anutaila Pratimarsha Nasya (nasal drops) daily and Asanabilwadi taila Karnapurana (ear drops), Shiroabhyanaga (head massage) weekly twice along with internal medications such as Sarivadi vati 250 mg once a day for 30 days, Brahmi Ghrita sevana 5 g once daily for 2 months, Kushmanada rasayana 5 g once a day orally for 2 months followed by Brahma Rasayana 5 g once a day orally for 2 months along with Vacha churna 0.5 g once a day; Aravindasava and Ashwaganda churna for 3 months twice a day after the food was also advised. Chyavana prash was given only during the follow-up period. The outcome was measured based on symptomatic changes in hearing and speech discrimination ability. After 6 months, in addition to audiometric changes, there was improvement in hearing and speech. Early detection and close monitoring are recommended to avoid the deterioration of cases.
Impact of diabetes on mental and functional well-being of older adults in Kerala
Authors: Anjana A. , Bindu P.
Published: December 2024

Objectives:

Kerala is known to be India’s diabetes capital, with diabetes prevalence more than double the national average. Due to its high prevalence, imposed costs on health systems, and various adverse effects on patients, this disease is receiving more attention today. The purpose of the study is to find out the prevalence of self-reported diabetes and its impact on the mental health and physical health of older adults in Kerala.

Methods:

Data for the present study were taken from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), 2017–2018. The LASI is a nationally representative survey of 72,250 older adults aged 45 and above across all states and union territories of India. The study sample consists of 2497 older adults from Kerala. Descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate techniques were used to analyze the data.

Results:

The self-reported prevalence of diabetes in Kerala (27%) is found to be highest compared to other states. Diabetes is found to be more common among males than females. Among the respondents with diabetes, the likelihood of depression is higher among females (27%), probably due to their depressogenic cognitive style and low perceived control over life experiences. Functional well-being was more affected among females than males.

Conclusions:

The findings show that diabetes has a significant effect on the mental and functional well-being of older adults. The symptom profile indicates that the mental and functional competence of females with diabetes is impacted more than males which highlight the importance of addressing gender considerations both in early life and in later stages of life for women.
Preparing a Medically Significant Copper Plate Inscription Replicas: A Case Study
Authors: Veerabadhran Vijayalakshmi , Rajeshwari Bommidi , Manohar P. Murali , Thrigulla Saketh Ram , Prasad Goli Penchala
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Inscriptions engraved on surfaces such as stone and copper plates provide insights into governance, societal customs, and the practice of Ayurveda from ancient times to the present. Unlike manuscripts, inscriptions, particularly those on stone, are more resistant to degradation. However, inscriptions on copper plates and other valuable metals, wood, and perishable materials are susceptible to loss, often traded unknowingly by custodians who do not recognize their historical significance, leading to their conversion into everyday items and resulting in the loss of invaluable historical information. Creating authentic replicas of such inscriptions, either from existing primary sources or from secondary sources like published catalogs, is crucial for preserving ancient medical wisdom. Electric engraving pens are essential tools in reproducing copper plate inscriptions accurately. This study is pioneering in its approach to creating replicas of these specific copper plate inscriptions. This article presents a case study of creating replicas of two copper plate inscriptions. The first is the Tummalagudem copper plate inscription (435 AD), written in Telugu–Kannada script, documenting a royal donation of two villages to a monastery for the provision of essential amenities for the sick, including dīpa (lamps), dhūpa (incense), and bhaiṣajya (medicines). The second is the Kaluvacheru copper plate inscription (1423 AD), detailing the Parahitha or Lokopakara family of Ayurvedic physicians, which, although lost in its original form, has been preserved through estampage prints. The successful replication of these inscriptions demonstrates the prudent use of modern technology in preserving authentic historical records for future generations.
A Critical Literary Review of Ancient Tamil Literature to Decipher the Timeless and Valuable Heritage of Siddha Medicine
Authors: Jeyavenkatesh J. , Sridhar S. , Roja Ramani S.
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Ancient Tamil culture has significantly contributed to global civilization, particularly in the field of medicine. A wealth of information about traditional medicines can be found in Sangam literature and medieval stone inscriptions. The Sangam literature bears testimony to the enormous contribution of the Tamil culture in the field of medicine. This study aims to emphasize the greatness of the Tamil civilization and demonstrate their profound knowledge in various fields, including Art, Culture, Medicine, Philosophy, Anatomy, Physiology, Surgery, and Toxicology. The specific objective of this study is to bring out the references found in Sangam Tamil literature in the field of Siddha medicine, which remain largely unknown to contemporary Siddha practitioners. The purpose of this study is to document the verses found in ancient Tamil literature about the diseases and Siddha remedies that were prevalent during the Sangam period. Literature serves as a mirror to our ancestor’s life. The methodology of this study delves into the ancient medical concepts presented in the oldest Tamil grammatical text, Tholkappiam. The references in Tholkappiam give a clear account of the generous use of holistic Siddha medicine in diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses in the Sangam period. The methodology also includes an examination of rare Tamil literary works available to the authors, which contain references to Siddha medicine. The key findings of this study are the answers deciphered from the verses of classical Tamil literature to present-day problems, such as suitable lifestyle choices, dietary plans, safe and efficient medications derived from natural inputs, and therapies tailored to the patient’s condition. The scope of this study is to reemphasize the greatness of ancient Siddha medicine and the relevance of the Siddha medical system even in the twenty-first century and to encourage the students of the Siddha community, researchers in the field of Sangam literature, and Tamil enthusiasts to do further exploration in the Tamil literature in detail and do in-depth research and critical thinking in these topics.
Neural functional rehabilitation: exploring neuromuscular reconstruction technology advancements and challenges
Authors: Tang Chunxiao , Wang Ping , Li Zhonghua , Zhong Shizhen , Yang Lin , Li Guanglin
Published: December 2024

Neural machine interface technology is a pioneering approach that aims to address the complex challenges of neurological dysfunctions and disabilities resulting from conditions such as congenital disorders, traumatic injuries, and neurological diseases. Neural machine interface technology establishes direct connections with the brain or peripheral nervous system to restore impaired motor, sensory, and cognitive functions, significantly improving patients' quality of life. This review analyzes the chronological development and integration of various neural machine interface technologies, including regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces, targeted muscle and sensory reinnervation, agonist–antagonist myoneural interfaces, and brain–machine interfaces. Recent advancements in flexible electronics and bioengineering have led to the development of more biocompatible and high-resolution electrodes, which enhance the performance and longevity of neural machine interface technology. However, significant challenges remain, such as signal interference, fibrous tissue encapsulation, and the need for precise anatomical localization and reconstruction. The integration of advanced signal processing algorithms, particularly those utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning, has the potential to improve the accuracy and reliability of neural signal interpretation, which will make neural machine interface technologies more intuitive and effective. These technologies have broad, impactful clinical applications, ranging from motor restoration and sensory feedback in prosthetics to neurological disorder treatment and neurorehabilitation. This review suggests that multidisciplinary collaboration will play a critical role in advancing neural machine interface technologies by combining insights from biomedical engineering, clinical surgery, and neuroengineering to develop more sophisticated and reliable interfaces. By addressing existing limitations and exploring new technological frontiers, neural machine interface technologies have the potential to revolutionize neuroprosthetics and neurorehabilitation, promising enhanced mobility, independence, and quality of life for individuals with neurological impairments. By leveraging detailed anatomical knowledge and integrating cutting-edge neuroengineering principles, researchers and clinicians can push the boundaries of what is possible and create increasingly sophisticated and long-lasting prosthetic devices that provide sustained benefits for users.