bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Die Bedryfsekonomie - Sy studieveld: Vernuwing, verruiming of status quo?
Authors: Bosch J. K.
Published: October 2022

This article is concerned with the empirical object or the empirical field of investigation, of Business Economics as a science, particularly in the context of on-going specialisation in the sciences. The Dutch business economists Limperg and Van der Schroeff advocate the concept of the so-called "business household" ("bedrijfshuishouding") as empirical object of Business Economics, where this concept carries different meanings and content. They abbreviate the concept "business household" to only "business" ("bedrijf"). According to Van der Schroeff the concept "business" can denote one or any of the following: either the private firm with the profit motive as goal, or the public utility industry, or semi-government institutions or a co-operative, or any establishment with a business purpose. In accordance with Limperg and Van der Schroeff any organization where factors of production are combined, can be identified as the empirical object of Business Economics. The term "business" (short for business household) is thus used in its widest sense to denote any business unit, irrespective of whether it is found in the business sector, farming sector, manufacturing sector or service sector of the economy.Another Dutch business economist, J.L. Meij, allocates a more limited content to the concept "business" by eliminating whose businesses which are not solely aimed at the generation of a cash flow. This more limited approach is acceptable because it leaves scope for the development of Public Administration as an independent science.The most important idea advanced in this article is the following: Due to tendency among certain (Afrikaansspeaking) business economists to pursue the ideas of Limperg and Van der Schroeff in an unmodified fashion by the use of the generic concept of business, danger exists that the vital role of private enterprise in a mixed economic society may be undervalued or even disregarded. The premise underlying the use of the generic concept of business can diminish the scientific character of Business Economics. The argument of the author is that the well-known and approved differences between the firm (enterprise or undertaking) and plant (or establishment) must also be maintained.
Operations management in a changing South Africa
Authors: Prekel Heinz
Published: October 2022

Die ontwikkeling van en toepasbaarheid vir vervaardigings- en nie-vervaardigingsondernemings van bedryfsbestuurstegnieke sedert die industriële revolusie word bespreek. Die interafhanklikheid van die kwantitatiewe benadering van wetenskaplike bestuur en die menslike verhoudingsbenadering van die gedragswetenskappe word geskets. Die verandering wat tans in die Suid-Afrikaanse ekonomie plaasvind, demografiese verspreiding van die land se mense en geprojekteerde groeipatrone van die bevolking en mannekrag word teen hierdie agtergrond beskou, ten einde vas to stel watter veranderings en aanpassings aan die onderrig van bedryfsbestuur aangebring moet word. Enkele gedagtes word geopper oor hoe die skrywer die taak van die nuutgestigde Claude Harris Leonleerstoel in Bedryfsbestuur sien.
The recent shift of emphasis in short-term economic policy in South Africa
Authors: De Kock Gerhard
Published: October 2022

Die Minister van Finansies het laat in 1977 'n klemverskuiwing in kort-termyn ekonomiese beleid aangekondig: 'n Geleidelike verskuiwing van die beperking van investering en verbruik, na die stimulasie van gesonde ekonomiese groei. Die grondslag van hierdie klemverskuiwing is die sukses bereik met die beperkende monetere en fiskale beleid en die verbetering van die betalingsbalans. Aspekte van hierdie belangrike beleidstelling word bespreek. Die merkwaardige swaai van 'n groot betalingsbalanstekort na 'n groot oorskot dien as bewys van die inherente sterkte en aanpasbaarheid van Suid-Afrika se betalingsbalans, tenspyte daarvan dat die balans in die afgelope paar jaar etlike groot skokke moes absorbeer: Die wêreldresessie van 1973-75; die onbestendigheid van die goudprys sedert einde 1974; gebeure in Angola in 1975 en in swart stedelike gebiede in 1976; en voortgesette politieke onsekerheid in, en druk op Suider-Afrika. Die tyd is nou ryp vir 'n nuwe ekonomiese opswaai, onder meer weens 'n styging in uitvoere, voortgesette uitvoervervanging, toename in sekere vorms van staatsbe-steding, en die noodsaaklikheid van heropbou van voorrade wat tydens die resessie afgebou is. Daar is steeds 'n tekort aan kapitaalinvloei, wat die regering sal noodsaak om bestendige ekonomiese groei te stimuleer. Dit sal egter versigtig beheer moet word, om te verseker dat die nuwe opswaai nie inflasionêr is nie.
From the editor: Differences in national culture - their impact on management
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: October 2022

No abstract available.
Womanpower in South Africa: Proposing a business strategy
Authors: Van der Merwe Sandra
Published: October 2022

Die vermorsing van "vrouekrag" is tot nadeel van die hele Suid-Afrikaanse ekonomie. Die skryfster bring die probleem met betrekking tot vroue-werknemers onder die aandag van die sakewêreld, en bespreek dit aan die hand van drie klasse van vroue: Dié wat na skool of universiteit 'n loopbaan binnegaan; dié wat reeds in 'n loopbaan is, maar tans nie ten volle benut word nie; en dié wat na 'n tyd van gesinsvorming na 'n loopbaan in die sakewêreld wil terugkeer. Aanbevelings word aan die sakewêreld gedoen oor 'n strategie wat gevolg kan word ten einde beskikbare vrouekrag in almal se belang meer doeltreffend te gebruik. 'n Verandering van houding en inisiatief van die kant van bestuur is van groter belang as wetgewing oor gelyke geleenthede.
Van die Redakteur: Skaars menslike hulpbronne - Benut hulle ten beste
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: October 2022

No abstract available.
The 1978 Budget: It's effect on the economy
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: October 2022

The effects of the 1978 budget on the South African economy, and likely economic developments in the near future were keenly discussed at a meeting of the South African Association of Business Management held in Pretoria on October 24. The meeting was attended by some 65 businessmen and -women mainly from Johannesburg and Pretoria, representing various sectors including manufacturing, banking, in¬surance, property and business academia.
Die meting van gemeenskapsverwagtinge met betrekking tot die sosiale verantwoordelikheid van ondernemings
Authors: Wagenaar C.
Published: October 2022

Different views exist as far as corporate social involvement is concerned. In the long run, however, business will have to take notice of what society expects in this respect. In order to measure these expectations of society, a 5-point Likert scale was developed. The scale was completed by a sample of 94 persons and tested for its validity and reliability. The results show that subjects involved in the survey definitely expect from business some extent of social involvement. Because of the limited sample, however, these results must only be viewed as an indication of what society expects from the business community.
Industrial democracy and management prerogative: Property rights and economic freedom under review
Authors: Bendix D.W. F.
Published: October 2022

Die wetgewing wat in Mei 1976 in Duitsland in werking getree het met betrekking tot gelyke verteenwoordiging van aandeelhouers en werknemers op die beheerrade van maatskappye met meer as 2000 werknemers verteenwoordig 'n kompromie in die jarelange stryd tussen arbeid en kapitaal vir 'n industriele demokrasie. Hierdie kompromie het egter blykbaar geeneen van die partye bevredig nie. Hierdie stuk bespreek die funksionele en wetlike tekortkomings van die "Mede-bestemmingswet van 1976", asook die besware van sowel arbeid as werkgewer. Sekere implikasies van die implementering van, en ervaring met die Duitse stelsel vir arbeidsbetrekkinge en industriele demokrasie in Suid-Afrika word ook bespreek.
Post-Cardiopulmonary Bypass Longitudinal Strain provides Higher Prognostic Ability than Baseline Strain or Change in Strain
Authors: Wakefield Brett J. , Artis Amanda S. , Alfirevic Andrej , Sale Shiva , Duncan Andra E.
Published: October 2022

Context:

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) measured by speckle-tracking echocardiography demonstrates excellent prognostic ability in predicting major adverse cardiac events after cardiac surgery. However, the optimal timing of intraoperative GLS measurement that provides the best prognostic value is unclear.

Aim:

Our goal was to evaluate whether GLS measured prior to cardiopulmonary bypass (pre-CPB GLS), following CPB (post-CPB GLS), or change in GLS provides the strongest association with postoperative complications.

Setting and Design:

Post hoc analysis of prospectively collected data from a clinical trial (NCT01187329). 72 patients with aortic stenosis undergoing elective AVR ± coronary artery bypass grafting between January 2011 and August 2013.

Material and Methods:

Myocardial deformation analysis from standardized transesophageal echocardiographic examinations were performed after anesthetic induction and chest closure. We evaluated the association between pre-CPB GLS, post-CPB GLS, and change in GLS (percent change from pre-CPB baseline) with postoperative atrial fibrillation and hospitalization >7 days. The association of post-CPB GLS with duration of mechanical ventilation, N-terminal pro-BNP (NT-proBNP) and troponin T were also assessed.

Statistical Analysis:

Multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

Risk-adjusted odds (OR[97.5%CI] of prolonged hospitalization increased an estimated 27% (1.27[1.01 to 1.59];Padj=0.035) per 1% decrease in absolute post-CPB GLS. Mean[98.3%CI] NT-proBNP increased 98.4[20 to 177]pg/mL; Padj=0.008), per 1% decrease in post-CPB GLS. Pre-CPB GLS or change in GLS were not associated with any outcomes.

Conclusions:

Post-CPB GLS provides the best prognostic value in predicting postoperative outcomes. Measuring post-CPB GLS may improve risk stratification and assist in future study design and patient outcome research.
Patent Vertical Vein Device Closure
Authors: Bhosale Pankaj P. , Chokhandre Manish , Prassana Salvi
Published: October 2022

We present the peri-procedural anesthetic management in a case of transcatheter closure of an unligated patent vertical vein (VV) in a 2-year-old male child operated case of obstructed supra cardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) who presented with significant left to right shunt causing symptoms of right heart failure. The procedure was carried out successfully under deep sedation and monitored anesthesia care (MAC) and had some specific clinical implications from the anesthetic management perspective which are highlighted and discussed in this report.
Perioperative Dexmedetomidine Reduces Delirium after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Singh Ajmer , Garg Vinit , Mehta Yatin , Bhan Anil , Trehan Naresh
Published: October 2022

Background:

Delirium is a commonly seen complication of cardiac surgery. Dexmedetomidine, by its anti-inflammatory properties and other effects, can attenuate postoperative delirium.

Aims:

The aim of this work was to study the incidence of delirium after coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and to compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and propofol on the incidence of postoperative delirium in coronary artery bypass graft surgery patients.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, observational study was conducted on 180 consecutive patients undergoing off-pump or on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery. The patients were administered either intravenous dexmedetomidine (n = 90) or propofol (n = 90) after hemostasis was achieved, till they were ready for weaning from the ventilator. The Confusion Assessment Method was used to assess the incidence of postoperative delirium.

Measurements and Main Results:

A total of 25 (13.8%) patients developed delirium after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Sedation with dexmedetomidine was associated with a significantly reduced incidence of postoperative delirium (8.9% v 18.9% propofol, P = 0.049). Subgroup analyses showed reduced incidence of postoperative delirium in off-pump patients compared to on-pump coronary artery bypass graft patients (3.3% vs. 20%, P = 0.009 dexmedetomidine group and 11.6% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.047 propofol group respectively). The mean age of the patients who had delirium was significantly more (64.9 ± 8.1 years vs. 52.5 ± 5.8 years, P = 0.046) compared to those who did not have delirium.

Conclusion:

Administration of dexmedetomidine-based sedation resulted in the reduced incidence of postoperative delirium compared to propofol-based sedation in patients after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Measures to Improve In-Hospital Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Surgical Repair for Anomalous Origin of Left Coronary Artery from Pulmonary Artery
Authors: Shukla Kamayani , Surti Jigar , Dubey Gajendra , Mishra Amit , Gajjar Trushar , Jain Imelda , Pandya Himani
Published: October 2022

Background:

Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare congenital anomaly leading to progressive left ventricular dysfunction and mitral regurgitation. We conducted this study to investigate various measures to optimize the outcomes of surgical correction for ALCAPA.

Materials And Methods:

This was a single-centre, retrospective, observational study including consecutive patients operated for ALCAPA. The main outcomes evaluated were in-hospital mortality, duration of mechanical ventilation, and duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay. Independent sample t- test and Fisher's exact test were used for the analysis of continuous and categorical variables respectively.

Results:

31 patients underwent surgical correction for ALCAPA during the study duration. The median age was 7.3 months with a range of 21 days to 25 months. All patients underwent coronary re-implantation with the coronary button transfer technique. There was no in-hospital mortality, the mean duration of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay was 117.6 hours and 10.7 days respectively. Age at admission, development of acute kidney injury after surgery, lactate levels at 12- and 24-hours post-surgery, and heart rate at ICU admission and 12-hours post-surgery were significantly associated with mechanical ventilation duration longer than 48 hours. Use of a combination of levosimendan and milrinone and elective intermittent nasal continuous positive airway pressure ventilation after extubation in all patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction were helpful in preventing low cardiac output and need for reintubation post-surgery respectively.

Conclusion:

Surgical correction for ALCAPA by coronary re-implantation has an excellent short-term outcome. Optimal postoperative management is of utmost importance for achieving the best results.
A Prospective Study of Various Anesthetic Techniques in Patients with Acyanotic Congenital Heart Diseases Undergoing Device Closure
Authors: Sultania Nidhi , Jambotkar Tejaswini C. , Basantwani Shakuntala N.
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims:

Transcatheter device closure of congenital heart defects (CHD) has recently gained popularity. As limited literature exists regarding the ideal anesthetic technique for these procedures, we studied the perioperative anesthetic management and its effects on hemodynamics and complication rate in patients undergoing device closure.

Methods:

In this prospective observational study, all patients of 1 month to 50 years of age with acyanotic congenital heart diseases undergoing device closure were included. The anesthesia technique, i.e., general anesthesia with endotracheal tube (GETA)/supraglottic airway device (SGD) or conscious sedation with face mask (S-FM), and intravenous induction agent used was noted. Intraoperatively vital parameters, use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and perioperative complications if any, were noted. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using a statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 15.

Results:

GETA was used in the atrial septal defect (ASD) (62.8%), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) (66.7%), ventricular septal defect (VSD) (65%) patients, SGD in ASD (6.3%), PDA (16.7%), and VSD (13.3%) patients. S-FM in ASD (31.3%), PDA (16.7%) and VSD (21.7%) patients. Etomidate was used as an induction agent in 30.61% of the patients and propofol in 69.39% of the patients. The mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the etomidate and propofol groups was statistically insignificant while decreased heart rate was noted in both groups. Complications like SGD dislodgement, supraventricular tachycardia, and device dislodgements were seen.

Conclusion:

In PDA device closure patients, GETA should be preferred. Patients for VSD device closure should receive general anesthesia as complications are common. In ASD device closure, patients without TEE use can be done under general anesthesia with SGD.
Incidence and profile of severe exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease due to biomass smoke or tobacco
Authors: Golpe Rafael , Blanco-Cid Nagore , Dacal-Rivas David , Martín-Robles Irene , Veiga Iria , Guzmán-Peralta Indhira , Castro-Añón Olalla , Pérez-de-Llano Luis A.
Published: October 2022

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:

Stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) caused by biomass smoke (B-COPD) has some differences from tobacco-induced-COPD (T-COPD), but acute exacerbations (AECOPD) have not been well characterized in B-COPD.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the incidence, characteristics and outcomes of AECOPD in B-COPD with those of T-COPD.

METHODS:

A retrospective observational study that included consecutive patients seen at a specialized COPD clinic (2008–2021). The incidence of severe AECOPD that required hospital admission was studied. For the first AECOPD, the following variables were recorded: fever, coexistence of pneumonia, purulent sputum, eosinophil count, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, hypercapnia, and respiratory acidosis. Outcome variables were intensive care unit (ICU) admission, length of hospital stay, and mortality within 1 month of hospital admission.

RESULTS:

Of 1060 subjects, 195 (18.4%) belonged to the B-COPD group and 865 (81.6%) to the T-COPD group. During a follow-up of 67.9 (37.8–98.8) months, 75 (38.4%) patients in the B-COPD group and 319 (36.8%) in the T-COPD group suffered at least one severe AECOPD. The only difference between groups was in a higher risk of ICU admission for the T-COPD group. The incidence, characteristics, and the rest of the outcomes of AECOPD were similar for both groups.

CONCLUSION:

AECOPD are similar events for B-COPD and T-COPD and should be managed similarly.
The efficiency of high-flow nasal cannula for adult patients with coronavirus disease 19 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Thaqafy Majid S. , Alzahrani Saleh , Alghamdi Abdulwahab , Alselemi Saleh , Alshebani Khalid , Bugis Bussma Ahmed , Bugis Alaa , Al-Shareef Ali S.
Published: October 2022

CONTEXT:

Early use of a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) provides positive outcomes for preventing the risk of intubation. However, the efficiency and usage of HFNC in the case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among adult patients with multiple risk factors remain debatable and require more investigation.

AIMS:

The aim of this study was to determine the efficiency of HFNC in preventing the possible risk of intubation.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

This study was an observational cross-sectional study that was conducted at a selected hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from July 2020 to August 2021.

METHODS:

The data were collected from patients’ medical records through the hospital health information system. Adult COVID-19 patients who used HFNC were included, while those who used bilevel positive airway pressure or continuous positive airway pressure without any trials of HFNC and neonatal or pediatric patients were excluded. The exposure of HFNC setting which included variables such as percentages of the fraction of inspired oxygen and the duration of using HFNC were measured to find the relation with respiratory rate oxygenation (ROX) index as a measurement of patient outcome.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

The data were analyzed by using the online calculator socscistatistics. com for prevalence statistics, and correlation tests of significance. Prevalence statistics were presented in mean, median, frequencies, and percentages. Statistical tests were used to measure correlations of key variables. P < 0.05 of ANOVA and t-tests was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

A total of 159 adult COVID-19 patients using HFNC were included, and most of these patients were male. The median age was 64 years. Most of patients were reported to have hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The majority (94.34%) of patients were successfully weaned from HFNC and shows effective intervention with a mean of 7.53 of ROX score. Appropriate implementation of HFNC might be a successful intervention for preventing the risk of intubation.

CONCLUSIONS:

According to the success rate of HFNC, which was considered a positive outcome, there might be a promising intervention for HFNC to prevent the risk of intubation and decrease the mortality rate.
Comparing the characteristics of positional and nonpositional sleep apnea patients among the Jordanian population
Authors: Oweidat Khaled Al , Toubasi Ahmad A. , Albtoosh Asma S. , Al-Mefleh Eyad , Hasuneh Manar M. , Abdulelah Ahmed A. , Sinan Rima A.
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common cause of sleep-disordered breathing with a large proportion of the patients exhibiting positional OSA (POSA). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the differences in the demographics, comorbidities, and polysomnographic features between POSA and non-POSA (NPOSA) in a Jordanian sample to further discern the propulsive elements for each group.

METHODS:

In this study, we evaluated 1037 adult patients with OSA. POSA was defined as an overall apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) >5, an overall AHI severity at least 1.4 times the nonsupine severity (overall/NS-AHI), and a minimum amount of time (i.e., 20 min) in the supine and nonsupine positions. To compare the clinical characteristics between POSA and NPOSA patients, statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of POSA was 41.7%. In comparison to NPOSA patients, POSA patients had higher female sex prevalence, milder OSA, lower body mass index, lower hypertension prevalence, and lower hemoglobin A1C levels compared to NPOSA patients. Moreover, sleep efficiency, total sleep time, and supine sleep time were significantly higher in POSA patients. Nonsupine sleep time, total AHI, rapid eye movement (REM) AHI, non-REM (NREM) AHI, supine AHI, nonsupine AHI, left and right AHI, mean oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2) awake, mean REM and NREM SpO2, SpO2 nadir, and time SpO2 below 90% were significantly lower among POSA patients. The multivariate regression analysis showed that only female gender and hypertension were significantly associated with POSA.

CONCLUSION:

POSA is common among OSA patients and demonstrates different clinical characteristics in comparison to NPOSA. Future prospective studies are needed to better characterize the POSA patients and investigate the benefit of positional therapy.
Lung cancer screening in the gulf
Authors: Bennji Sami M. , Jayakrishnan B. , Al-Kindi Adil H. , Al-Jahdhami Issa , Al-Hashami Zamzam
Published: October 2022

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide among both men and women. Although advances in therapy have been made, the 5-year survival rates for lung cancer remain poor, ranging from 10% to 20%. One of the main reasons is late presentation, as only 25% of patients are amenable to cure at the time of presentation. Therefore, the emphasis on lung cancer screening (LCS) is growing with the current evidence that has shown benefits with low-dose computed tomography scan of the chest in high-risk populations. LCS remains a debated topic in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, possibly due to a lack of local experience. In this article, we explore the rationale and give recommendations on the best approach for LCS in GCC.
Resistant Alopecia Areata Treated with Tofacitinib
Authors: Sahay Govind
Published: October 2022

Several reports more so from western countries present recovery for alopecia areata (AA) with tofacitinib. In this report, we present the case of a young adult male diagnosed with resistant AA with failed treatment to oral as well topical steroids, minoxidil, and oral troxasalen. He was treated with tofacitinib 5 mg twice a day along with biotin supplement. Hair regrowth was observed at 1 month. After 3 months, nearly more than 90% hair regrowth was observed. No associated side effects were noted.
A Clinico-Trichoscopic Analysis of Hair Density and Diameter Variability in Relation to Severity Grading of Female Pattern Hair Loss
Authors: Michelle Vishu , Shilpa Kanathur , Leelavathy Budamakuntala
Published: October 2022

Context:

Hair loss is a common complaint among Indian women. For female pattern hair loss (FPHL), diagnosis is primarily clinical. In the early stages, it can be confused with other conditions. Histopathology is the diagnostic method of choice but requires multiple biopsies and can be disfiguring. Trichoscopy is an alternative noninvasive, rapid tool.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to study the hair density and hair diameter variance in relation with severity grading of FPHL.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety women aged 18 years and above were included in this cross-sectional study conducted at the dermatology department of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. Trichoscopic examination was done with a videodermoscope (Firefly DE300) at 20 and 70-fold magnification. Only those patients who met the trichoscopic diagnostic criteria for FPHL were included.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and Spearman's correlation test for fitness of good, using Microsoft Excel data analysis tools.

Results:

Increase in disease severity from grade one to grade three positively correlated with a decrease in hair density over the frontal scalp (P < 0.001) and the occipital scalp (P < 0.001), decrease in average hair shaft diameter over both frontal and occipital scalp (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Trichoscopic tools, particularly hair density and hair diameter variance over both frontal and occipital scalp can be useful to help determine FPHL disease severity and its progression.
Robotic surgery for malignant and large adrenal masses: A doable and safe option
Authors: Ayhan Erdemir , Rasa Kemal Hüseyin
Published: October 2022

Background:

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is currently considered the gold standard method for adrenal surgery. Open surgery is the most frequent technique preferred amongst surgeons who are faced with tumours of larger sizes or challenging lesions. Despite the increasing interest in laparoscopy, most centres still utilise open surgery for challenging adrenal cases.

Patients and Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated our successive 30 robotic adrenalectomies performed in the past 10 years and assigned the patients into ‘difficult’ and ‘easy’ groups. Patients with malignant tumours or tumour size of over 8 cm were assigned to the ‘difficult group’ and others to the ‘easy group’. Groups were evaluated according to the demographic features of the patients, side of the operation, the body mass index (BMI) and laparotomy history. The duration of anaesthesia, amount of bleeding during surgery and the hospitalisation periods were also evaluated.

Results:

There is no statistically significant difference between the two groups considering age, gender, BMI value, operation side, presence or absence of a laparotomy history, the amount of bleeding during the operation and hospitalisation duration (P > 0.05). The anaesthesia duration was found to be higher in the ‘difficult’ patient group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Our results present robust evidence to support the idea that robotic adrenalectomy is not only a doable but also a safe option for malignant and large adrenal masses.
Clinical characteristics, management, and outcome of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia patients with brain metastasis
Authors: Gonzales-Acantilado Gisele V. , Juan Filomena S. , Cagayan Maria S.
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to determine the clinical characteristics, management, and outcome of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) patients with brain metastasis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a 10-year descriptive study that included all patients with brain metastasis from GTN. Patients' sociodemographic and clinicopathological profiles were described. Using Kaplan–Meier survival curve, the survival time was determined.

RESULTS:

From January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2019, there were 33 GTN patients with brain metastasis. Four were excluded from the study due to incomplete records. Twenty-nine patients were included in the study. Nineteen (65.51%) patients presented with neurologic symptoms upon diagnosis and one (3.44%) during treatment. All received etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin, oncovin (EMACO) as first-line treatment. Five (17.24%) patients were given induction chemotherapy with low-dose etoposide–cisplatin. Seventeen (58.62%) patients underwent whole-brain radiation and two (6.89%) were given intrathecal methotrexate. Thirteen patients (44.82%) achieved biochemical remission with EMACO chemotherapy. Four patients (13.79%) had resistance to EMACO and were given Etoposide Cisplatin Etoposide Methotrexate Actinomycin (EP EMA). Four patients (13.79%) underwent an adjunctive hysterectomy. Four patients (13.79%) died during treatment. One patient (3.44%) was unable to continue her chemotherapy because she got pregnant before her first consolidation course. There were eight early deaths (<4 weeks of admission) and hence were excluded in the analysis. Three patients who went into biochemical remission relapsed on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months after their last consolidation course, respectively. The median follow-up time was 27 months. After excluding early deaths, the survival rate between 3 and 7 years after treatment is at 61.9%. The mean survival time was 5.43 years. Six surviving patients were contacted. Five (17.24%) of them had resumed their everyday life, and one is currently undergoing chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION:

The study was able to document brain metastasis from GTN to be 14.28% (29/203) among metastatic high-risk admissions. The biochemical remission rate from first-line treatment was of 61.90% (13/21) and resistance rate was 19.04% (4/21). Lost to follow up after achieving biochemical remission was a challenge encountered.
Primary vaginal gestational trophoblastic neoplasia treated with uterine angiographic embolization and Etoposide, Methotrexate, Actinomycin D, Cyclophosphamide, and Vincristine
Authors: Cenizal-Santos Maria Concepcion D. , Chua Angelica Anne A. , Aquilizan Leo Francis N.
Published: October 2022

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) in itself is an uncommon condition, much so is primary extrauterine GTN. The incidence of GTN in the Philippines is at 22.4/40,000 pregnancies. However, no report has been made for primary extrauterine GTN. Only two cases of primary vaginal choriocarcinoma are reported in literature. This is a case of a 26 year old G1P0 (0010) who came in for profuse vaginal bleeding. Serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) was elevated and ultrasound showed hypervascular vaginal mass and an empty uterus. A primary vaginal GTN was considered and the patient was treated with etoposide, methotrexate, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide, and vincristine (EMACO) regimen. During the course of chemotherapy, there was a note of profuse vaginal bleeding which was controlled by angiographic uterine artery embolization. A normal β-hCG level was achieved after six cycles of EMACO. The patient was able to have three successful pregnancy outcomes thereafter. Primary vaginal GTN is a rare condition that requires a high index of suspicion. In a nulliparous patient complicated with profuse vaginal bleeding, angiographic embolization is an effective fertility-sparing procedure that can manage the said complication.
Perceived Impact of Collaborative Partnerships on Student Teachers’ Core Skills of the 21st Century: A Case of East-Central and Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Tadese Hailegnaw Tesfaye
Published: October 2022

The study explored the perceived impact of collaborative partnerships on the core skills of the 21st century in learning institutions East-Central and Southern Ethiopia using the descriptive research design. The study involved 7 colleges of teacher education and 35 secondary schools with 6021 college teachers, secondary school teachers and student-teachers. The researchers randomly sampled 853 respondents. Questionnaire was used as the major instrument for data collection and 3.50-4.00 = strongly agree, 2.50-3.49= agree, 1.50-2.49 = disagree and 1.00-1.49 = strongly disagree. Respondents considered collaborative partnership to have impact on the development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills, research conducting skills, communication skills, creativity and innovation skills and life and career skills. Based on the conclusions, the researchers recommend that the Ministry of Education, colleges and schools should work collaboratively to improve the colleges and schools' curricula in a ways that encourage sustainable collaboration so as student teachers may develop various skills that are necessary for their future careers.
Effect of Practice-Based Learning in Chemistry on Students’ Academic Performance in Rwanda
Authors: Renzaho Alphonse , Kampire Eduidge
Published: October 2022

This study sought to establish the effect of practice-based learning in Chemistry on students’ academic performance in Rwanda. The study used the quasi-experimental research design. The researchers used the pretest-posttest approach whereby prerequisite knowledge of students was tested prior to treatment. Thereafter, the control group was treated in a traditional approach of teaching using lecturing method while the experimental group was trained using the practice-based learning approach. After the teaching period, which took three weeks, students were given a week to prepare for a chemistry achievement test herein referred to as posttest. Results were analyzed and compared to measure the effect of practice-based learning among students in the experimental group. The study established that the experimental group which was taught through the problem-based approach performed better than the control group which was taught through the traditional learning approach. Therefore, practice-based learning significantly improved the performance of the learners. It is recommended that secondary school science teachers should take the advantage of practice-based learning to improve students’ performance in science subjects.
Prevalence of Psychoactive Substance Use and Associated Behavioral Risks among Secondary School Students in Tanzania
Authors: Ochieng Juma
Published: October 2022

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of psychoactive substance use and associated behavioral risks among secondary school students in Tanzania.   The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data generated from semi-structured interviews with Heads of school, focused group discussions with teachers and students and documentary reviews were subjected to thematic analysis. Credibility, dependability, confirmability and transferability were considered to ensure trustworthiness. Rights and welfare of research participants and subjects were considered by the researcher. The most commonly used psychoactive substances among secondary school students were marijuana (cannabis), cigarettes and alcohol. Peer pressure, the family environment, the availability of substances in students localities are some of factors that influenced students to use psychoactive substances. The study recommends that the government should take special priority in banning the use of cannabis, cigarettes and alcohol, especially among secondary school students in order to minimize the prevalence of the use of psychoactive substances among secondary school students. School management and government at large need to establish drug control and prevention clubs in secondary schools so as to equip students with the necessary skills of knowing to resist temptations related to the use of psychoactive substances.
Breaking Seed Dormancy: Effect of Heat and Vimpel® on Oil Palm Seed Germination (EIaeis guineensis Jacq)
Authors: Erumwenbibi I. A. , Yakubu M. , Ubara U. , Eke C. R.
Published: October 2022

Oil palm (E. guineensis) is native to Africa and among highest oilseeds crop in the world, having a dormant seeds which require pre-treatments to quicken the germination process. The objective of this experiment is to evaluate the effects of Vimpel growth regulator on germination of Oil palm seedlings. The viable seeds of oil palm were treated with vimpel solution at different stages of the germination process tagged as A (+ Vimpel before heat), B (+Vimpel after heat), C (+Vimpel without heat) D (0 vimpel) E (+ Vimpel prior and after heat) and F (Water prior and after heating/Control) and then subjected to six different temperature regime i.e. 2,4,6,8, 10 and 12 weeks in the germination chamber. The result indicates that group A had the highest germination percentage at 10 weeks of heat treatment followed by B at 8 weeks of temperature while group F (control) had the lowest percentage. Conclusively, the vimpel growth regulator has significant effects in facilitating the germination process by 40 days against 80 days of heat treatment currently use in the oil palm seed germination.
Exploration of Aquifer Levels in Abraka, Obiaruku and Umutu Communities in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Molua O. C. , Okoh H. , Ighrapkata F. O.
Published: October 2022

The Schlumberger vertical electrical sounding method was used to detect aquifer levels in Abraka, Obiaruku and Umutu communities in Delta State respectively.  The study recorded the aquifer level in Obiaruku to be between 26m to 34m.  In Abraka the aquifer level lied between 20m to about 30m while in Umutu, it was between 50m to 100m. Borehole data showed that portable drinking water lies between 20m to 100m and could easily be assessed in these areas.
Analysis of Forest Dynamics using Landscape Metrics and Markov Chain Model in Omo Forest Reserve, Ogun State, Nigeria
Authors: Mshelia Z. H. , Aigbokhan O. J. , Agbor C. F.
Published: October 2022

Forest Canopy density (FCD) is an important index in the assessment and monitoring of forest ecosystems and it is a significant indicator for potential management interventions. The objective of this study was to analyse forest cover and landscape changes with Landsat images of 1990 and 2018 using FCD and Landscape metrics and, Markov Chain and CA-Markov to project the forest cover classes in Omo Forest Reserve. The FCD was obtained from the combination of data from the Advance Vegetation Density index (AVI), Bare soil index (BI), and Forest Shadow Index (FSI). Four categories of change were identified in the reserve, no change, growth, degradation, and deforestation. There was no change in 41798.79ha (44.36%), growth had 22498.11ha (23.87%), degradation with 24916.05ha (26.45%), and deforestation with the least change with 5006.43 (5.32%). Deforestation had the least area coverage with 5006.43 ha. Degradation with a change rate of 0.27 % contributed more in terms of change. There was a slight increase in the values of the three diversity indices (SHDI, SHEI, SIDI) while a high degree of homogeneity is recorded in the no forest class, and the three others classes were fragmented. The 28years projection showed a slight change with no forest area gaining 1.7% while the high forest density losing 2%. Assessment and monitoring of the forest ecosystem will enhance its ecosystem services potential.
Earthworm Urine Used as Foliar Spray on Amaranthus hybridus (Green amaranth) Boosts Growth and Stimulates Stomata Opening
Authors: Dada E. O. , Fadeyi O. M. , Oludipe E. O. , Awarun O. D. , Owagboriaye F. O. , Aladesida A. A. , Dedeke G. A. , Owa S. O.
Published: October 2022

The advent of spray drones for agrochemical applications calls for continuous exploration of potentially affordable and sustainable liquid biofertilizers. Thus, we evaluated the effects of earthworm urine foliar spray on the growth performance (height, number of leaves, leaf area, stem girth) and stomata opening of Amaranthus hybridus (Green amaranth). Earthworm urine was obtained by placing 500 g of Libyodrilus violaceus in one litre of earthworm saline, for one hour. Amaranthus hybridus seeds were planted into 90 pots, divided into three treatment groups of 30 pots each. Upon germination, the first group was sprayed with earthworm urine, the second and third groups with saline water and ordinary water, respectively. Earthworm urine significantly (p < 0.05) increased all the measured growth parameters, and stimulated the opening of stomata, relative to saline water and ordinary water. This result is a strong indication that earthworm urine contains hormones that boost plant growth, and is potentially suitable for use as a liquid biofertilizer, for increased production of Amaranthus hybridus and related vegetables.
Macroinvertebrates Assemblage Study: An attempt to Assess the Impact of Water Quality on Qua Iboe River Estuary, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Jonah U. E. , Esenowo I. K. , Akpan I. I. , Oribhabor B. J.
Published: October 2022

This study was conducted to access the water quality of Qua River Estuary, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria by collecting water samples and macroinvertebrates using standard sampling procedures and analytical methods. The mean values of physicochemical parameters assessed in water samples gave the following ranges: DO (2.38 – 4.63 mg/l), water temperature (26.13 – 29.18 oC), turbidity (22.56 – 39.24 NTU),TDS (224.8 – 332.51 mg/l), pH (6.3 – 7.5 mg/l), salinity (3.13 – 4.84 ppt),BOD (1.13 – 3.64 mg/l), nitrate (2.45 – 6.72 mg/l), phosphate (2.12 – 5.93 mg/l) and Flow velocity (0.23 – 0.38 ms-1). ANOVA reveals significant variation in some parameters. A total of 308 individual species, comprising of three phyla and seven taxonomic groups of macro-invertebrate were identified. Arthropoda constituted the highest percentage composition (75.4%), followed by Mollusca (18.8%), and Annelida (5.8%). The dominant group was Decapoda (35.7%) and the least was Odonata accounted only for 1.9%. Station 5 has the highest number of individual’s species (112), station 3 had the least (43). Chironomus plumosus was the most occurring species, accounted for 19.2%. The result reveals that anthropogenic activities in the water system influence the abundance of aquatic biota; based on the macro-invertebrates identified, it shows that the water quality is moderately polluted owing to human activities.
Assessment of Oxidative Stress Indices in Tissues of Cadmium-challenged Female Wistar Rats Treated with Combined Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Manihot esculenta and Citrus sinensis
Authors: Orororo O. C. , Efekemo O. , Clark P. D. , Ajiri S. , Alao V. , Orumo B. , Eduvie O.
Published: October 2022

This research assessed the oxidative stress indices in tissues of cadmium-challenged female Wistar rats treated with combined ethanolic leaf extract of Manihot esculenta and Citrus sinensis. Eighteen female rats (150±20g) were divided put into three (3) groups:  Group 1 (received feed and water only); Group 2 (received single dose of cadmium, 30mg/kg body weight at the start of the experiment) and Group 3 (received cadmium as in group 2 above and 200mg/kg body weight of combined extract of orange and cassava leaf, daily for two weeks). Cadmium load in the tissues of the rats were analyzed using AAS after acid digestion and oxidative stress indices were analyzed using standard procedures. Data obtained showed that the cadmium tissue load (𝑥̅±SD, μg/g tissue) were 0.005±0.0007 (liver), 0.007±0.0004 (kidney); 55.4±5.2 (liver), 28.3±4.6 (kidney); and 13.6±2.3 (liver), 20.7±2.5 (kidney) for Groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. There was a higher concentration of Cd in the liver and kidney of rats exposed to Cd alone (Group 2) compared to the control (Group 1) and Cd-challenged rats treated with combined leaf extract of Manihot esculenta and Citrus sinensis (Group 3).  Exposure to Cd alone caused significant (p<0.05) increase in lipid peroxidation and glutathione peroxidase in the liver and kidney compared to the control. Conversely, the administration of Cd alone to rats caused significant (p<0.05) reduction in the level of glutathione and the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase compared to the control in both tissues. Significant amelioration was witnessed in all the parameters in Cd-challenged rats treated with the extract compared to rats challenged with Cd alone. The results show that Cd-induced oxidative stress can be countered effectively by combined leaf extract of Manihot esculenta and Citrus sinensis which is rich in antioxidant molecules.
Properties of Homomorphism and Quotient Implication Algebra on Implication Algebras
Authors: Dejen Gerima Tefera
Published: October 2022

The concept of homomorphisms on implication algebra is introduced. The notion of sub algebras, normal subalgebras in an implication algebra are investigated. Quotient implication algebras and kernels in an implication algebra ,and Homomorphisms and isomorphism theorems are elaborated.
High Precision Low Input Voltage of 65nm CMOS Rectifier for Energy Harvesting using Threshold Voltage Minimization in Telemedicine Embedded System
Authors: Fouad Hafez , Kamel Hesham , Youssef Adel
Published: October 2022

Telemedicine applications run at very low input voltages, necessitating the use of Great Precision Rectifier with high sensitivity to function at low input voltages. In this study, we used a 65 nm CMOS rectifier to achieve a 0.2V input voltage for Energy Harvesting Telemedicine application. The suggested rectifier, which has two-stage structure and operates at frequency of 2.4GHz, has been found to perform better in cases where the minimum operating voltage is lower than previously published papers, and the rectifier can operate over a wide range of low input voltage amplitudes. Full-Wave Fully gate cross-coupled Rectifiers (FWFR) CMOS Rectifier Efficiency at Freq of 2.4 GHz: With an input voltage amplitude of 2V, the minimum and maximum output voltages are 0.49V and 1.997V, respectively, with a peak VCE of 99.85 percent and a peak PCE of 46.86 percent. This enables the suggested rectifier to be used in a variety of vibration energy collecting systems, including electrostatic, electromagnetic, and piezoelectric energy harvesters. The proposed rectifier, which is built at 2.4GHz and has a two-stage structure, performs better in the event of low input voltage amplitude and has lower minimum operation voltage than previously published papers. Full-wave fully gate cross-coupled rectifiers (FWFR) CMOS Rectifier Performance Summary at Freq of 2.4 GHz: With a 2V input voltage amplitude, the minimum and maximum output voltages are 0.49V and 1.997V, respectively, with a maximum VCE of 99.85% and a maximum PCE of 46.86%.