bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlated choice
Authors: Chambers Christopher P. , Masatlioglu Yusufcan , Turansick Christopher
Published: July 2024

We study random joint choice rules, allowing for interdependence of choice across agents. These capture random choice by multiple agents, or a single agent across goods or time periods. Our interest is in separable choice rules, where each agent can be thought of as acting independently of the other. A random joint choice rule satisfies marginality if for every individual choice set, we can determine the individual's choice probabilities over alternatives independently of the other individual's choice set. We offer two characterizations of random joint choice rules satisfying marginality in terms of separable choice rules. While marginality is a necessary condition for separability, we show that it fails to be sufficient. We provide an additional condition on the marginal choice rules which, along with marginality, is sufficient for separability.
La transición alimentaria y nutricional de la infancia en Ecuador: un enfoque pluralista y pragmático
Authors: Rivera Jairo
Published: July 2024

La transición alimentaria y nutricional a nivel global se enmarca en la coexistencia de la desnutrición infantil y el sobrepeso infantil y cada país y localidad transita un nivel propio de prevalencias. El objetivo del presente artículo es analizar la transición alimentaria y nutricional de la infancia en Ecuador a través de un enfoque pluralista y pragmático asociado con las “ciudades” de Boltanski (2006). Para ello, se emplea una metodología mixta basada, por un lado, en un enfoque cuantitativo que se apoya en las bases de datos de las encuestas nacionales de nutrición infantil y, por otro, en un enfoque cualitativo mediante la información primaria recopilada durante el trabajo de campo en las provincias con mayores prevalencias de desnutrición en el país. Entre los principales resultados se encuentra que la transición alimentaria y nutricional se asocia con cambios en los hábitos de consumo, con la limitada práctica de la lactancia materna y con la persistencia de barreras estructurales como la pobreza.
El derecho a no ser parte de la ciudad: ruralidad y urbanización en Ciudad de México
Authors: Rojo Negrete Iskra Alejandra
Published: July 2024

Los pueblos originarios de la cuenca del Valle de México tienen demandas (actuales e históricas) en términos de derechos fundamentales, la mayoría relacionadas con la presencia y el crecimiento de la Ciudad de México. En años recientes el discurso dominante gira en torno a los derechos a la ciudad, que podrían ser excluyentes desde la perspectiva y experiencia de los pueblos. Cabe preguntarse entonces si para el cumplimiento de estos derechos no se quiere ser parte de la ciudad, o si ese postulado es incompatible con una transición territorial adecuada para la crisis actual. El objetivo del presente artículo es esbozar una narrativa sobre “el derecho a no ser parte de la ciudad”. Se realizó con la adaptación de un método narrativo (una organización lógica-histórica) por medio de la triangulación de la información con el trabajo de gabinete y de campo. Se concluye que esta posición se ha construido de manera simbólica por las demandas de la Asamblea Autónoma de los Pueblos de la Cuenca del Valle de México en los últimos cinco años y por otras organizaciones y movilizaciones como una forma de transición territorial justa y adecuada para la realidad del lugar.
La Révolution tranquille comme référence chez les Acadiens du Nouveau-Brunswick
Authors: Martel Marcel
Published: July 2024

Y a-t-il eu une Révolution tranquille chez les Acadiens du Nouveau-Brunswick pendant les années 1960 ? Jusque dans les années 1990, les chercheurs ne retiennent pas l’expression de la Révolution tranquille pour caractériser les changements survenus dans cette communauté acadienne. Par contre, la Révolution tranquille comme expression et comme cadre d’analyse est retenue par plusieurs chercheurs depuis les trente dernières années. L’expression de la Révolution tranquille se retrouve dans le contenu du cours d’histoire du Canada, mais pas celui de l’histoire acadienne enseignée dans les écoles de langue française du Nouveau-Brunswick. Enfin, des références aux acteurs de la Révolution tranquille sont présentes dans l’espace public. Elles ne sont toutefois pas abondantes, ce qui oblige à se demander si la Révolution tranquille est vraiment une référence mémorielle.
L’Intelligence Artificielle, nouvelle étape de la fracture numérique : cas du Gabon
Authors: Moussavou Ndjimbit Olivier Ange-Yannick
Published: July 2024

Les questions démocratiques ou d’équité sociale constituent un enjeu de ce siècle pour de nombreux États. La médiation technique dans bien de contexte, se positionne comme un biais innovant de confiance et d’inclusion aussi bien territoriale que sociale. L’insertion de l’IA en amont du processus électoral gabonais via la biométrie, interviendrait dans une logique participative et fluide de fonctionnement de ce système. L’article explore selon le contexte gabonais, comment une innovation technologique engagée dans un processus électoral devient une nouvelle étape de la fracture numérique, sociale et territoriale. La démarche de recherche est ethnographique et interdisciplinaire, car d’une part, sur le plan pratique elle s’appuie sur des données de terrain. D’autre part, sur le plan théorique elle est d’essence ethnotechnologique, éclairée par la théorie de l’innovation technique de Patrice Flichy.
Intelligence Artificielle et gestion de la relation client à Jumia CI : Du chatbot à la déshumanisation de la relation client
Authors: Koné Tahirou , Coulibaly Moussa
Published: July 2024

Dans un environnement économique fortement concurrentiel accentué par la transformation numérique des sociétés, les entreprises déploient de plus en plus l’Intelligence Artificielle pour réaliser des économies de marché et ainsi améliorer la gestion de la relation client. Les chatbots figurent parmi les applications dotées d’IA les plus pratiques pour la relation client, d’autant plus qu’ils assurent le travail d’assistant virtuel grâce aux conseils prédictifs et parfois aux contenus personnalisés. Dans notre démarche, nous nous intéressons au modèle de Jumia Côte d’Ivoire, une entreprise de commerce en ligne. Nous partons du postulat que le chatbot en tant que technologie numérique développée grâce à l’IA altère la dimension humaine dans la relation client. Notre travail tente de questionner son impact dans la gestion de la relation client afin d’en jauger la capacité à se substituer à l’humain.
Le ciblage comportemental : quand l’intelligence artificielle touche la culture
Authors: Khelifa Miriam
Published: July 2024

Étant un levier pour l’économie des États grâce à l’essor des industries créatives, à l’apport des publicités digitales et au ciblage comportemental, l’Intelligence Artificielle ne peut cependant pas opérer efficacement sans introduire des transformations importantes sur l’économie et la structure sociale aussi bien par les procédés innovateurs de production que par les mécanismes nouveaux de consommation. L’Intelligence Artificielle est en train de transformer fondamentalement toutes les facettes de la vie de l’Homme moderne. Elle s’est taillé une place importante dans plusieurs secteurs tels que la politique, la création artistique, l’enseignement et l’économie. Ces transformations sont souvent accompagnées d’opportunités. Le secteur publicitaire, étant une forme du système économique capitaliste, ne déroge pas à la règle.
Enhancing child rights protection in Nigeria through artificial intelligence (AI)
Authors: Nsude Ifeyinwa
Published: July 2024

This study explored how Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be used to promote child protection. Critical literature review method was employed in the exploration of the state-of-the-art literature on AI. The study was anchored on the Agenda Setting Theory and the Media and Precaution Adoption Model. It was ascertained that AI could be used positively to enhance child protection. Also, there are some challenges in the use of AI for child protection, some of which are : low awareness in the media, sharenting by parents, non-human-centric AI design by technology industries, and ignorance of some security operatives in the use of AI applications online. It is recommended among other things that parents should not compromise the privacy of their children through sharenting and should monitor the type of information their children are exposed to through AI technologies. States should devise concrete measures to implement child rights acts that are already in the constitution ; ensure that information is available to children themselves on exercising their rights ; the media should create awareness about the use of AI in child protection ; and that the technology industry should design child-friendly AI systems.
La lettre des frères pontifes contenant la Vita lyonnaise de saint Bénezet (1245) : une forgerie au service d’un récit fondateur lyonnais ?
Authors: Krumenacker Jean-Benoît
Published: July 2024

Malgré la falsification de la bulle accompagnant le document original, le texte de la Vita lyonnaise de Bénezet est généralement considéré comme une authentique lettre des frères du pont au premier concile de Lyon. Jusqu’à aujourd’hui, ce texte a surtout été utilisé par les historiens avignonnais parlant du pont d’Avignon ou de Bénezet son fondateur, sans lien avec le contexte lyonnais de son écriture. Mais, en mettant en rapport ce document avec les archives lyonnaises, de nouvelles observations peuvent être faites qui, à la fois, excluent les frères avignonnais de la rédaction de ce document, mais surtout posent d’importants problèmes de dates et de cohérence interne. Ces éléments suggèrent alors une forgerie de la fin du Moyen Âge ou du début de la Renaissance pour donner une histoire au pont lyonnais qui ne semble pas en avoir au moment où les bourgeois lyonnais redécouvrent l’histoire de leur ville.
Quelques retours d’expériences d’archéo-géophysiques du PCR « Monastères en Europe occidentale (ve-xe siècles). Topographie et structures des premiers établissements en Franche-Comté et Bourgogne »
Authors: Bully Sébastien , Sapin Christian
Published: July 2024

Après des expériences pionnières en 1998-2003, vingt-huit sites monastiques de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté ont fait l’objet de prospections géophysiques par GPR (ou radar-sol) en 2010-2016, afin d’en reconnaître l’emprise, l’environnement et la topographie – carré claustral, églises antérieures, etc. –, d’estimer la puissance stratigraphique, de repérer des structures spécifiques – caveau, tombes privilégiées, etc. Les résultats qui constituent une « strate » de documentation supplémentaire, une approche du potentiel enfoui, ont servi à élaborer des stratégies d’interventions en sondages ou en fouilles. La confrontation heuristique engagée entre « image géophysique » et « réalité archéologique » participe à définir les limites de cette méthode, qui est la plus opérable pour la période, surtout pour ce type de structure et « d’environnement archi-stratigraphié » alto-médiéval. Cette contribution présente quelques résultats et observations à partir de neuf cas choisis pour leur caractère démonstratif ou significatif parmi les douze sites sondés ou partiellement fouillés à l’issue des prospections géophysiques – une mise en perspective éclairante qui s’inscrit dans un « retour d’expériences » méthodologique essentiel.
Cleaning the Electroerosive Machining Wastewater with some Polyacrylamide-Based Flocculants
Authors: Boruk Sergiy , Winkler Igor
Published: July 2024

The granulometric composition of the metal/scale suspensions formed at electroerosive machining (EEM) of metal items made of the ST-10 steel has been determined to evaluate the need for a flocculant for the suspension particles extraction and decontamination of the machining working fluid. Even though most suspension particles are large enough and quickly self-precipitate, some particles are too small (sized 6 µm or less) and form quite stable suspensions, requiring additional flocculants to be extracted. Pure polyacrylamide with a molecular weight of 4-5*106 atomic units and an anionic polymer flocculant BESFLOC-4041 were considered as decontamination agents for the metal/scale suspensions. It was found that the latter agent is more effective, and it ensures the effective decontamination of an EEM working fluid. An admixture of 0.05 g/L of BESFLOC-4041 ensures effective clarification (with the decontamination efficiency of 90-95 %) of the metal/scale suspension with a dispersed phase concentration of up to 1.0 g/L. The flocculation efficiency of polyacrylamimde is lower (67-85 %) and its best performance is achieved at the concentration of 0.08 g/L.
Anxiety among nurses in caring for COVID-19 patients: a qualitative study
Authors: Wahyuni Sri Eka , Keliat Budi Anna , Susanti Herni , Besral Besral
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to explore anxiety among nurses in caring for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients.A qualitative descriptive design was used and the number of participants was 13 nurse managers selected using the purposive sampling method. Data collection was conducted using in-depth interviews coupled with a tape recorder and camera following the consent of participants, while framework analysis was used to analyze data.The results showed that participants, comprising 12 females and one male, had work duration in the range of 1-10 years. The identified five major themes included: i) anxiety response, ii) risk factor, iii) protective factor, iv) interventions, and v) anticipated support from nurses.Nurses were found to experience anxiety when caring for COVID-19 patients, underscoring the need for mental health and psychosocial support to reduce risk factors, increase protective factors, and improve coping mechanisms, fostering resilience. The results provided data to help nurses overcome anxiety when facing cases of infection such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this study offered valuable insights for the government and hospitals in establishing policies regarding the importance of mental and psychological health support to maintain the well-being of nurses.
Self-efficacy in older adults with depression: a qualitative study
Authors: Nurhidayati Tri , Rizki Atika Alfia , Setyawati Dewi , Yusuf Ah , Indarwati Retno
Published: July 2024

Older people suffering from depression often exhibit low self-efficacy, which causes them to quickly give up on challenges caused by various problems related to ageing, such as physical, social and mental aspects, including depression, which ultimately impact their quality of life and productivity. Depression in the elderly is caused by physical, psychological, and social interactions with other people, especially caregivers in nursing homes. This study employed a phenomenological approach to analyse self-efficacy among older adults suffering from depression through qualitative inquiries. The participants who met the inclusion criteria lived in nursing homes for more than one year and experienced depression. In-depth interviews were conducted using a structured guide with a general self-efficacy scale (GSES), Indonesian version. The study was conducted in an older adult nursing home in 2022 with 14 older adults. The results were divided into four themes – accompanying performance, vicarious learning, verbal encouragement and emotional states – and indicated that older adults with depression experienced poor self-efficacy and described how to cope with poor self-efficacy.
Symptomatic Simple Renal Cysts Treated with Percutaneous Sclerotherapy: Long-term Results
Authors: Veerachari Srinivas Belur , Vilas Sakolkar Shalmali
Published: July 2024

Background:

Simple cysts are the most common lesions in the kidney and symptomatic patients require treatment. This study evaluates the use of single-sitting percutaneous sclerotherapy with needle aspiration under ultrasound (US) guidance in patients suffering from symptomatic simple renal cysts.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four patients suffering from symptomatic simple renal cysts during the period January 2018 to January 2020 underwent needle aspiration followed by sclerotherapy under ultrasound (US) guidance. Sclerotherapy with 30 mg sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STDS) was performed after aspiration of the renal cysts. A total of 28 symptomatic simple renal cysts in 22 patients were included in the study, two patients were lost for follow-up. The follow-up period was 48 months.

Results:

The diameter of the renal cysts ranged between 5.5 and 8.5 cm (mean: 6.24 ± 1.05 cm), and between 0 and 4 cm (mean: 0.286 ± 0.004 cm) before and after sclerotherapy, respectively (P < 0.001). The average diameter reduction was 92.16% during the follow-up period of 48 months. Flank pain was resolved in all the patients (100%). The procedure was termed “success” with all the patients. The three cysts in which, the reduction of size was <75% were more than 8 cm in initial size, and in one case, it was bilateral renal cysts. In these cases also, the pain was reduced completely and did not require any further treatment. We did not observe any procedure-related complications.

Conclusion:

Single-sitting needle aspiration with sclerotherapy using STDS under US guidance is an effective and safe method for treating symptomatic simple renal cysts.
Validation of a Potato Tissue-based Transurethral Resection of the Prostate Endotrainer Model as a Training Tool
Authors: Sachdeva Kamal , Jafri Wasim , Sinha Maneesh
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The objective of the study was to describe and validate a potato tissue-based endotrainer for training in transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).

Materials and Methods:

A novel potato model was devised for TURP simulation. Trainees and experts performed resection on the potato model, and reported their observations on a specifically designed questionnaire. Face validity, content validity, and construct validity were assessed. An independent t-test was used for statistical assessment.

Results:

The mean overall rating for the experience on the potato-based TURP model for experts was 4.18 ± 0.68. The content validity of the study for trainees was 3.50 ± 0.38 and for experts was 4.44 ± 0.63. The construct validity was rated by trainees as 3.77 ± 0.43 and by experts as 6.57 ± 1.59. The expert group resected more tissue 8.5 ± 0.58 g versus 5.22 ± 0.52 g by trainees (P = 0.008) and were better at sparing the bladder neck (P = 0.0005) than the trainees. Sixty-six percent of trainees reached a predetermined objective level of competence, defined arbitrarily as 6.5 g resected in 10 min and 4 cm chip length.

Conclusions:

This model is a suitable low-cost option for a novice to learn the basic motor skills of TURP.
Estimation of myeloperoxidase levels in smokers, pan chewers, and normal individuals using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay: An observational study
Authors: Arunachalam Meyyappan , Divya Bose , Karthick Raghavendhar , Krishnan Rajkumar , Rameshkumar Annasamy
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The effect of tobacco on human health is still a major concern worldwide. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an oxidative enzyme linked to inflammation and oxidative stress. There is limited information in the literature regarding the salivary and serum MPO levels in patients with betel quid chewing habit. The current study aimed to determine and compare MPO levels in the serum and saliva of smokers, betel quid chewers, and healthy controls. Materials and Methods: Twenty healthy controls, 20 individuals with smoking habits, and 20 individuals with betel quid chewing habits were included in the study. MPO levels in the collected serum and salivary samples were estimated using an ELISA kit (Immunology Consultants Laboratory Inc, Newberg, OR, USA). Statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis of variance followed by post hoc Tukey analysis and Kendall’s Tau correlation test. Results: In serum and saliva, the MPO levels of smokers and betel quid chewers were higher compared to healthy controls. A statistically significant correlation was observed between the serum and salivary MPO levels in healthy controls (P = 0.006). Conclusion: The current study demonstrated that salivary MPO is increased in individuals with smoking and betel quid chewing habits, which was previously unknown.
Does weekend and out-of-hour duty affect the outcome of neurological emergencies in children? – A prospective observational study from Southern Nigeria
Authors: Ikhurionan Paul Ehiabhi , Abiodun Moses T.
Published: July 2024

Background:

There is a growing body of literature that suggests increased rates of morbidity and mortality for pediatric conditions admitted on a weekend compared with weekdays. Whether this association is seen in Nigerian children presenting with neurologic emergencies is not certain. Understanding the effect of weekend admission on the outcome of pediatric neurologic emergencies is important to allocate personnel and resources more efficiently. This study was conducted to determine whether weekend and out-of-hour duty affect the outcome of neurological emergencies in children.

Subjects and Methods:

This study used a cross-sectional analytic design over an 18-month period. Children aged 1 month–18 years presenting with neurologic emergencies were prospectively recruited over an 18-month period. The association between the dependent variable and independent variables was tested using the Chi-squared test and odds ratio. The level of statistical significance was accepted as P < 0.05.

Results:

A total of 146 children with neurologic emergencies were seen during the study period with 33.6% occurring on weekends. The average duration of stay (DOS) was 7.6 (±5.7) days. There was no difference in DOS between children based on the day of admission (P = 0.241) or the hour of admission (P = 0.155). Eleven (7.5%) of study subjects died during the study period. There was no difference in outcome based on day ([weekends – 6.1% vs. weekday – 8.2%] [P = 0.896]) or hour of admission ([out-of-hour – 7.3% vs. working hours – 7.7%] [P = 0.958]).

Conclusions:

Weekend and out-of-hour duty does not affect the outcome of neurological emergencies in children.
Similarities and differences between intermittent hemodialysis and sustained low-efficiency dialysis
Authors: Kandasamy Sasidaran , Reddy K. G. Sunil , Subburaj Nivesh
Published: July 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a multifaceted syndrome with diverse etiologies encountered very frequently in all critical care service units. Time and again, multiple researchers have proven its independent contribution to increasing morbidity and mortality in hospitalized children and adults. This undeniable fact has guided the development of newer strategies and logical concepts that have led to new modalities of treating AKI. In the absence of curative medical therapy, kidney replacement therapy (KRT) is considered the primary supportive therapy for AKI, and when initiated at the right time, it has the potential to bridge the gap toward cure. Among all KRT methods, blood-based dialysis occupies a prominent role and has now become the cornerstone of treatment for critically ill children with AKI. Two major methods usually employed are “intermittent hemolysis” (IHD) and “continuous kidney replacement therapy” (CKRT). Currently, a third method called “sustained low-efficiency dialysis (SLED)” is gaining momentum in critical care. It is a hybrid method; in simpler terms, it is a slow and prolonged IHD that may carry a few of the critical merits of CKRT. This narrative review article sheds light on SLED, as well as its comparison to IHD in critical care practice.
Evaluation of interleukin-4 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Al-Omari Raghda S. M. , Hassan Huda Noor , Al-Kurdy Masar J. , Al Dulaimi Zaid M. H.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Breast cancer is a complicated, multifaceted condition that affects a wide range of entities and exhibits significant heterogeneity in its clinical, morphological, and molecular characteristics.

Objective:

This study intended to determine whether there is a correlation between the serum level of IL-4 expression and the single nucleotide polymorphism in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the development of breast cancer.

Materials and Methods:

IL-4 serum levels in 70 patients (35–65 years old) and 70 control groups (30–50 years old) were determined using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Genomic DNA was obtained from blood samples for molecular analysis to investigate the TNF-α-308 G→A gene polymorphism in patients and the control groups. Genotyping done by using tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction technique.

Results:

Patients with breast cancer had significantly higher serum IL-4 levels than the control group (P < 0.001), 133.27 (66.00) vs. 38.66 (38.00), respectively. The frequency distribution of the TNF-α genotype in the patients with breast cancer and control groups was studied. In the patient group, there were 56 out of 70 heterozygous AG genotypes compared to 6 out of 70 in the control group (P < 0.001). With an odds ratio of 37.33 (95% confidence interval: 7.99–174.51) and an etiologic fraction (EF) of 0.88, the AG genotype existed indeed a risk factor.

Conclusion:

In the current investigation, the heterozygous AG genotype was shown to be substantially more linked with IL-4 serum and TNF-α genotype in breast cancer patient groups. Also, the homozygous GG genotype was significantly higher in correlation between IL-4 serum and TNF-α genotype in breast cancer patient group.
Effective Role of Cytotoxic CD8+ T Cell in Iraqi Alopecia areata Patients
Authors: Fahad Hayfaa Mahmood , Rhadi Omer Khudair , Hatif Sahar Taha , Marhash Ali Dhaher
Published: July 2024

Background:

The overall lifetime disease risk for Alopecia areata, a common condition affecting the hair and nails, in the general population is 2%. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, although the exact pathophysiology of AA is still unknown. Variations in cytokines produced by CD4 and CD8 T cells are thought to be the main contributors to hair loss. CD8+ T cells target intra-follicular regions, while NK cells and CD4 + T cells congregate, and CD8+ T cells target intra-follicular regions.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the presence of CD8 T cells in Iraqi individuals with Alopecia areata.

Materials and Methods:

The study groups consisted of two groups: 1) 45 Alopecia areata patients (32 males and 13 females) with ages ranging from 5 to 59, and 2) 45 people in the control group who were in good health, had been examined by a physician, and were between the ages of 4 and 50, using the ELISA technique. The quantitative measurement of serum levels of CD8+ was performed.

Results:

The findings between the groups under investigation revealed an elevated mean for CD8 + 323.7127.3 ng/mL and healthy controls 159.862.1 ng/mL, respectively. The findings revealed a marked rise in the serum CD8+ mean levels between the sick and healthy control groups, a strong correlation across all parameters (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study concluded that Alopecia areata is more prevalent in men than in women. It also found a highly significant relationship (P < 0.05) between the mean CD8+ circulating blood levels in patients and the healthy control group.
Study the Effect of Tobacco Smoking (Cigarette and Hookah) on Some Blood Parameters in the Samples of Iraqi People in Al-Najaf Governorate
Authors: Al-Hadrawi Maysoon Khudair , Jabar Zainab Salah Abdul , Hasan Ahmed Abdul , Hammadi Kareem A.
Published: July 2024

Background:

The study of effective smoking is considered one of the challenges in sustainable development, where tobacco smoking (cigarettes and hookah) is one of the main etiology of cardiovascular and cancer diseases causing millions of deaths annually.

Objectives:

The current study aims to identify the effect of cigarettes and hookah on blood parameters in the population of Al-Najaf Governorate.

Materials and Methods:

The present study included 120 males and they were divided into cigarette smokers (n = 30), hookah smokers (n = 30), cigarettes and hookah smokers (n = 30), and nonsmokers (n = 30). They were distributed according to their age categories ranging from 15 to 74 years. Specimens of blood from all groups were collected to identify the hemoglobin (Hb), white blood cells (WBCs) count, red blood cells (RBCs), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular Hb (MCH), and mean corpuscular Hb concentration (MCHC) in the blood.

Results:

The results revealed that the current study proved tobacco smoking has a significant effect on most blood parameters, as it had a significant effect on the level of Hb, WBCs, RBCs, MCH, and MCV (P < 0.05) in tobacco smokers (15.2458 ± 1.5 g/dL, 12.35 × 103µL, 5.326 ± 0.775 × 106 µL, 29.721 ± 0.432 pg, 87.7312 ± 0.692 fL), respectively, compared with nonsmokers as a control group (13.5 ± 1 g/dL, 7.450 ± 0.398 × 103 µL, 4.847 ± 0.081 × 106 µL, 27.416 ± 0.915 pg, 79.6343 ± 3.623 fL). However, the effect was not significant on the level of MCHC (34.336 ± 0.599 g/dL) compared with a control group (33.99 ± 0.307 g/dL).

Conclusion:

The current study concludes that cigarettes and hookah smoking or both change the blood parameters, which are harmful to health. Therefore, smokers must be aware to measure their blood parameters continuously to keep their health healthy.
Interleukin-6 and Biomarkers Predict Outcomes in People with Diabetes and COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Jawad Dhuhah Hayder Abdul , Mezher Musa Nima
Published: July 2024

Objective:

The study aimed to evaluate the association between interleukin-(IL-6) and other inflammatory markers (ferritin, D-dimer, and C-reactive protein [CRP]) in severe and critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection severing from diabetic mellitus (DM).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 130 patients confirmed with COVID-19 infection in a Laboratory of the Ministry of Health/Department of Public Health and Al-Amal Specialized Hospital for Communicable Diseases from January 1, 2022, to May 1, 2022, were included in the study. Demographic and clinical data, signs and symptoms, diabetics history, laboratory diagnosis (reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction), as well chest computed tomography were collected and analyzed. The patients were divided according to the severity of the disease into three groups: mild cases (39%), severe cases (33%), and critical cases (28%).

Results:

The results revealed that 70 of the 130 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infected patients had diabetes and were at a high risk of a severe and critical outcome. Furthermore, the level of proinflammatory biomarkers, such as IL-6 and other inflammatory biomarkers, such as CRP, serum ferritin, and D-dimer, were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in patients with diabetes compared with those without diabetes and the control group.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that according to COVID-19, DM must be a consideration of high-risk factor for the rapid progression of COVID-19 and an increased mortality rate. A recent study suggests that COVID-19 patients with diabetes are more susceptible to cytokine storms, eventually leading to rapid deterioration of patients’ health.
Evaluation of Bradykinin and Leukotriene B4 and D4 in Serum of Patients with COVID-19: A Case Control Study
Authors: Al-Kufaishi Ali M. A. , Al-Hasnawi Maryam A. J. , Al-Musawi Noor J. T.
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as one of the global threats, infecting millions of people and causing the mortality of several million around the world.

Objectives:

This study aims to assess levels of bradykinin, leukotriene B4, and leukotriene D4 in patients with COVID-19 and people enjoying good health as a control group, explaining the results scientifically.

Materials and Methods:

Medical information was collected from 90 participants at Merjin Medical Hospital in Iraq, at the respiratory care unit according to specific criteria. The people were separated into two groups: controls and patients. The study demographic included sex, age, disease severity, oxygen saturation rate (SPO2), and body mass index (BMI), and excluded patients with diabetes, asthma, pulmonary obstructive tract disease, and other chronic diseases. The bradykinin, leukotriene B4, and leukotriene D4 levels were assessed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique (ELISA).

Results:

The results revealed significant variations in bradykinin, leukotriene B4, and D4 levels between the COVID-19 and control groups, with a P value of 0.036, 0.001, and 0.031, respectively. Bradykinin level in the COVID-19 group was 49.36 ± 11.24, whereas the control group showed 34.78 ± 7.15. LTB4 level in the COVID-19 patients was 401.96 ± 89.23, whereas the control group showed 316.40 ± 78.56. LTD4 level in the COVID-19 group was 11.50 ± 1.65, whereas the control group showed 8.33 ± 1.37.

Conclusion:

Bradykinin, leukotriene D4, and B4 can be considered good indicators to provide knowledge about the severity of COVID-19 and help physicians give appropriate medications.
Sp110 Gene Polymorphisms Associated with Increased Susceptibility to COVID-19 Severity among the Hillah Population
Authors: Ali Zahraa Hamza , Al-Marzoqi Ali H. , Rahmaan Naeem , Al-Taee Zahraa M.
Published: July 2024

Background:

The new coronavirus causes many respiratory illnesses in Wuhan, China, under the name severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), from December 2019. The illness of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was brought on by this virus. At least three isoforms of the SP110 nuclear body protein are encoded by the SP110 gene. These include the SP110a, b, and c isoforms, which are the most abundant and are thought to come from alternative mRNA splicing.

Aim:

This study attempted to evaluate the impact of Sp110 gene variation on COVID-19 susceptibility in the province of Babylon.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, of 113 cases, 63 cases have clinical symptoms of COVID-19 patients and 50 blood samples were collected from healthy people as a control group in this study from November 2021 to February 2022 at Al-Morgan Hospital. There were many demographic data included in the present study such as age distribution, sex distribution, and geographic distribution of COVID patients. Samples (63) from suspected COVID-19 patients from different age groups ranging from 20 to 80 years old were considered.

Results:

The Sp110 rs7580900 AA genotype was the most frequent in both COVID-19 (28.32%) and control (21.24%) groups. This indicates that the Sp110 Rs7580900 single-nucleotide polymorphisms are not related to susceptibility to COVID-19 in patients (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion:

Significant results were seen in SP110 gene polymorphism between COVID patients and vaccinated persons at P ≤ 0.05. This may be the of Sp110in mediating SARS-CoV-2 infection as a novel route for SARS-CoV-2 entry.
The surgical outcome of sutureless skin closures using Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Dermabond™) versus Steri-Strip™
Authors: Sah Neha , Punga Rohit , Kumar Ajay , Shivhare Peeyush , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Sah Sonam , Shekhar Amlendu
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Cosmesis is the primary concern for the patient undergoing facial surgery and there are numbers of well proven materials that are available such as adhesive tapes, subcuticular suture, skin adhesive or glue to achieve better cosmesis. The objective of our study was to assess the surgical outcome of sutureless skin closures using Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Dermabond™) versus Steri-Strip™.

Method:

The present prospective study was conducted in 20 patients. Patients were divided into two groups. After subcutaneous closure of wounds, either Dermabond™ or Steri-Strip™ was placed. The patients were assessed for wound complication (erythema, tenderness, dehiscence or any discharge), scar hypertrophy and cosmetic appearance also time consumed in surgical skin closure was evaluated. Wound assessment, scar hypertrophy and cosmetic appearance were assessed by using Chi-square test. Time closure was assessed by using Mann-whitney U test.

Result:

Twenty patients belonging to all age group were included in study. Ten patients undergone closure with Dermabond™ and ten with Steri-Strips™. Assessment of wound complications, cosmetic appearance and scar hypertrophy was done. There was no significant difference found between both the groups, but 2 patients had fair cosmetic outcomes at one month and 1 patient had fair scar hypertrophy at 6 month. However, excellent cosmetic outcome in terms of scar hypertrophy at 6 month was significantly more among group II.

Conclusion:

Octyl-2-cyanoacrylate (Dermabond™) and Steri-Strip™ provide similar outcomes in terms of wound complications. Cosmetic outcomes in terms of scar hypertrophy with steri-strip wound closure seem to be better and more economical.
Volumetric analysis of mastoid air cells in orthodontic malocclusions in 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)
Authors: Singh Navin , Chaurasia Akhilanand , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Agarwal Anshul , Abd Rahman Aida Nur Ashikin Binti , Tiwari Rini
Published: July 2024

Objectives:

To determine age- and sex-related changes in mastoid air cells volume in orthodontic malocclusions (class 1, class 2, class 3) in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), morphometric analysis, and age prediction on the basis of mastoid air cells.

Methods:

In total, 150 3D CBCT scans of study subjects having class 1, class 2, and class 3 malocclusions have been analyzed retrospectively for the estimation of volume of mastoid air cells by Dolphin imaging software V11.9, and measurement data of volumes have been recorded and analyzed using SPSS software 24.v.

Results:

The volume of mastoid air cells was highest in age group of 14–28 years which was statistically not significant (P value >.05). The volume of mastoid air cells in the right side of cranium is greater than mastoid air cells in the left side. The mastoid air cell volume was higher in males than females. The volume of mastoid air cells (right side) was highest in class II malocclusion (2404.53 ± 1737.50 mm3) followed by class III and was least in class I malocclusion (1842.09 ± 1263.78 mm3). However, the volume of mastoid air cells in the left side was highest in class III malocclusion (2368.03 ± 1853.00 mm3) followed by class II and was least in class I (1920.52 ± 1285.34 mm3).

Conclusions:

The volume of mastoid air cells varies in different class of orthodontic malocclusions. The mastoid air cells volume is higher in males than females. On the basis of mastoid air cells volume, we are able to predict the age, sex, and class of orthodontic malocclusion.
Management of trigeminal neuralgia by peripheral neurectomy
Authors: Tandon Sapna , Srivastava Saurabh , Mishra Madan , Fry Ramesh R. , Sohail Sanober , Sidhwa Anusha
Published: July 2024

Background:

Peripheral neurectomy(PN)is a minimally invasive procedure, for the management of trigeminal neuralgi (TN)consisting of surgical avulsion of terminal branches of the trigeminal nerve.

Aim:

To assess the efficacy of PN in the treatment of refractory TN and their recurrences in a follow up of 18 months.

Materials and Methodology:

Retro-prospective and prospective study was conducted on randomly selected 30 TN patients irrespective of age, gender and socio-economic status. The branch of trigeminal nerve involved was identified according to the site of pain. Then the PN procedure was performed under local or general aesthesia. The follow up of each patient was done for next 18 months.

Results:

Mean age of the TN patients 53.17 ± 13.84 years, with 66.7% of patients were within 60 years of age. Male to female ratio was 1:1.5. All patients showed unilateral TN. Mostly 26.7% trigger point was located in lower lip followed by 13.3% in upper lip. After 3,6 and 9 months follow-up, none of the TN patients treated with PN had pain and none had any effect on general activity. However, from 12 months till 18 months’ follow up, 2 (6.7%) patients reported of pain.

Conclusion:

PNs are viable treatment alternative for TN, although peripheral neurectomy has chances of reoccurrence but still offer better quality of life in patients for many years without relaps.
Presence of antilingula and its relationship to mandibular foramen—An anatomical study
Authors: Jolly Satnam S. , Lata Jeevan , Sharma Ravi K. , Vashist Ruchi
Published: July 2024

Aim:

Aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of antilingula and its relationship with mandibular foramen.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, a total of 50 specimens of dry human hemi-mandibles were studied to analyze the presence and relationship of antilingula to mandibular foramen. A 1-mm fissure bur was used to drill a hole perpendicular to bone from the deepest aspect of the concavity at the center of the mandibular foramen from the medial to lateral side, the drill perforated both the medial and lateral cortex of the mandible. The distance from the antilingula to hole was measured and recorded in both antero-posterior and supero-inferior planes. The data were collected and put to statistical analysis.

Results:

From this study, it was concluded that the antilingula was present in 90% (n = 45) of mandibles and was absent in 10% (n = 5) of mandibles. Antero-posteriorly, the antilingula was present anterior to mandibular foramen in 22.2% (n = 10) of mandibles, posteriorly in 57.7% (n = 26) of mandibles, and there was complete concordance in 20% (n = 9) of mandibles. The supero-inferior relation shows that antilingula was present superior to mandibular foramen in 97.8% (n = 44) of mandibles, and it was present inferiorly in 2.20 (n = 1) of mandibles.

Conclusion:

Although vertical ramus osteotomy is not a commonly used procedure in these days. From our study, it was concluded that antilingula was present as an elevation in 90% of cases on the lateral ramus border and the mandibular foramen is present inferior and anterior to the antilingula.
To assess and compare the outcomes of the cutaneous neck dissection incision taken by colorado microdissection needle, surgical blade and cutting electrocautery in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma: A prospective study
Authors: Mishra Priyatam , Bhola Nitin , Agarwal Anchal , Mathur Mrinalini , Pillai Saurabh , Chakraborty Raj K. , Kangloo Shubhanshi
Published: July 2024

Aim:

To assess and compare the outcomes of the cutaneous neck dissection incisions taken by Colorado microdissection needle, surgical blade and cutting electrocautery in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, randomized control, comparative study was carried out on 21 patients. These patients were divided into 3 groups containing 7 patients in each group. The intra operative and post operative outcomes were evaluated. Statistical analysis was done by using descriptive and inferential statistics using Chisquare test, Fisher’s Exact Test, one way ANOVA and multiple comparison Tukey Test and software used in the analysis were SPSS 27.0 version and GraphPad Prism 7.0 version and P < 0.05 is considered as level of significance.

Results:

The time taken for placing cutaneous skin incision and blood loss was more in the surgical blade group as compared to the Colorado microdissection needle and electrocautery. Statistically no significant difference between the three group while comparing the cutaneous neck incision healing and post operative scar formation.

Conclusion:

This study proves the superiority of the Colorado microdissection needle in terms of time taken and blood loss with similar aesthetic outcome in terms of cutaneous wound healing and post operative scar formation when compared to surgical blade and cutting electrocautery.
Estimating the magnitude of different barriers to dental care for special needs patients: A systematic review
Authors: Agarwal Bhaskar , Srivastava Shitij , Shekhar Abhinav , Arora Kshitij , Singh Mayank , Kumar Lakshya
Published: July 2024

Quite often, it is seen that the number of special care individual in the dental OPD/clinics is quite low, as compared to their population. This can be due to specific barriers that restrict them in availing dental treatment. Our aim was to identify different barriers to dental care of persons with special needs through a systematic review and to quantify them. A systematic review was carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed data was searched with predefined keywords leading to retrieval of 576 records. Full length studies published in English language from 2010 onwards with mention of proportion of persons citing a barrier to dental care were included. Three studies published in peer reviewed journals from other data sources were also identified while retrieving the full length texts. Out of a total of 576 PubMed and three additional records, a total of 22 studies were included in the systematic review. Cost, communication, physical facilities, fear/uncooperativeness, unawareness, distant location/inaccessibility, unwilling dentist, transportation, and difficulty in getting appointment were identified as nine major barriers. Pooled proportions for different barriers ranged from 22.75% (Accessibility; 95%CI = 19.96–25.54) to 44.35% (Communication; 95% CI = 32.63–56.07A). There was a high heterogeneity across different studies for both fixed effects and random effects models. Communication, physical facilities, and unawareness were identified as the three most common barriers showing minimum heterogeneity in random effects model.
Bariatric surgery and diabetes: Current challenges and perspectives
Authors: He Yan-Fei , Hu Xiao-Dong , Liu Jun-Qiang , Li Hu-Ming , Lu Shuang-Feng
Published: July 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and obesity have become public issues of global concern. Bariatric surgery for the treatment of obesity combined with type 2 DM has been shown to be a safe and effective approach; however, there are limited studies that have systematically addressed the challenges of surgical treatment of obesity combined with DM. In this review, we summarize and answer the most pressing questions in the field of surgical treatment of obesity-associated DM. I believe that our insights will be of great help to clinicians in their daily practice.
Status of Surgical Research and Publication in Africa
Authors: Vaishya Raju , Vaish Abhishek , Kigera James
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The research output in surgical branches such as orthopedics and sports medicine (OSM) is meager from Africa,  considering the population and the high burden of health-related problems. We conducted this study to analyze the trend of publications  in OSM from African countries and compared it with other surgical specialities.
Methods: We used the SCOPUS data from  the Scimago Journal & Country Rank website, as it allows us to draw substantial journal metrics for research.
Results: During the past  three decades (between 1996 and 2022), Africa’s global contribution to all surgical specialities has increased. In OSM, this was only 0.65%  in 1996 and had risen to 1.79% in 2022. The total publications in OSM were 8297 from 49 countries during this period. The number of  publications has risen from 61 (in 1996) to 931 (in 2022), with the maximum surge seen during the past decade. South Africa, Egypt, and  Tunisia are the leading African nations in OSM publications and have contributed 77% of the total publications from Africa in 2022. There  were only three orthopedic and four other surgical specialities indexed journals listed in the SCImago, arising from Africa.
Conclusions:  There was an increased research output from Africa in OSM during 1996–2022, especially in the past decade. However, only three nations  have contributed more than three-fourth of these publications. There is a scarcity of indexed journals in the surgical disciplines arising  from Africa.