bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) secondary to Salmonella infection
Authors:   Department of General Medicine, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Yaswanth Vijay , Renuga Devi V. ,   Department of General Medicine, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Gunasekaran N. ,   Department of General Medicine, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Varadaraj Priyadarshini ,   Department of General Medicine, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: October 2024

HLH (Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis) is a severe hyperinflammatory disease which could be caused by a range of pathogenic organisms, involving Salmonella. This unique case of bacterial-induced HLH tells the story of a 24y/o male who has been admitted to the hospital and is experiencing the severe symptoms of HLH that developed after an enteric fever caused by Salmonella. Despite earlier hospitalization and intravenous antibiotic treatment, he presented with a high temperature, excessive sweating, yellowish staining of urine and eyes, shortness of breath, and significant systemic inflammation. Laboratory studies revealed severe anemia, bicytopenia, and increased markers such as hyperferritinemia and hypertriglyceridemia, resulting in the diagnosis of HLH. The treatment method includes intensive care with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIG), corticosteroids, and broad-spectrum antibiotics to address both the underlying infection and the inflammatory condition. Despite intense care, his condition was complex and created substantial complications. This instance emphasizes the significance of early detection as well as treatment of HLH, especially when accompanied by bacterial infections, which are not generally thought to produce this strong immunological response. The example emphasizes the requirement to include HLH in the individuals differential diagnosis with severe illness and systemic inflammatory reactions that do not respond to standard treatment. It also emphasizes the necessity of a comprehensive therapeutic approach, customized to the underlying cause and specific clinical presentations of the disease, in improving outcomes in critically sick patients.
Economic Entrepreneurship Skills in High School Students as a Pathway to Future Economic Growth
Authors: Tambengi Wulan Mayasari
Published: October 2024

The subject of this research focuses on the impact of Economic entrepreneurship education in Indonesian high schools. Exploratory qualitative case studies were conducted and the data collection techniques included semi structured interviews, focus group discussion and documentation review. The study results indicate that knowledge-explicitness discrepancy in GAME and EIE courses curb entrepreneurial skills amongst students. The first student related challenge is that existing entrepreneurship education is seen as not applicable to their future career goals and thus requires contextually relevant solutions. The roles, responsibilities and relations of entities in schooling systems are highly legalistic, bureaucratic and hierarchical and limit teachers from practicing creativity. Implication of the results of this study are drawn in terms of emphasizing the value of experiential learning, topicality of entrepreneurship content in high schools of Indonesia, need to have flexible policies to improve the quality of teaching and learning of entrepreneurship in the high schools of Indonesia. Suggestions are made to create what is necessary in schools to help prepare children for future economic development.
Extensiveness of Teachers’ Workload in Determining the Acquisition of Kiswahili Reading Skills Among Pupils in Public Primary Schools in Tanga City Council, Tanzania
Authors: John Janeth , Abdi Bahiya , Kileo Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

The study investigated the extensiveness of teachers’ workload in determining the acquisition of Kiswahili reading skills among public primary school pupils in Tanga City Council, Tanzania. The study employed a convergent design under mixed methods research approach to collect both quantitative and qualitative data simultaneously and compare the results to obtain a more complete understanding of the research problem. The study targeted 80 public primary schools, 80 head teachers, 264 Kiswahili subject teachers, 24 Ward Education Officer and 1 City Council Primary Education Officer. Both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were employed to obtain respondents who participated in this study. The study involved 8 public primary schools, 8 head teachers, 88 Kiswahili reading skills teachers, 8 WEO and 1 CCPEO. Data were collected using questionnaires, and interview guide. Data collection instruments were validated by Mwenge Catholic University research experts. A pilot study was conducted in two public secondary schools. The reliability of questionnaires for Likert scale items was determined using Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient where reliability coefficient r= 0.892 for Kiswahili subject teachers questionnaire was obtained. The reliability for qualitative data was established through peer debriefing and triangulation. The study adhered to research ethical principles throughout the research process. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics particularly using frequencies, percentages and mean with the aid of SPSS Version 22. The study concludes that due to their overwhelming responsibilities, teachers find it challenging to give students timely and insightful feedback on their reading progress. Teachers find it challenging to plan and implement enjoyable reading activities that would greatly enhance their pupils Kiswahili reading skills. Teachers are unable to give each pupils the individualized support and attention they need to improve their reading skills in Kiswahili, leaving them with little time and energy. The study recommends that heads of public primary schools can support teachers in working less by making sure that teachers have enough time to plan, organize, assign reading tasks, and help pupils who are failing with learning. The administration of public primary school should make sure that the school has enough teaching and learning resources for Kiswahili reading instruction.
Preventive Treatment Effects of Posterior Cracked Teeth
Authors: Shrestha Reetu
Published: October 2024

Cracks are defects on the tooth surface. The aim of the study is to treat those cracked teeth that are asymptomatic or have symptoms of reversible pulpitis by removal of the crack line and restoration with direct bonded composite resin to prevent further crack propagation and thus splitting of the tooth. A total of 30 patients having 45 mesio-distally oriented cracked teeth were included in the study. During the treatment the teeth were classified into three groups according to the depth of the prepared cavity. Group A included teeth with cavity depth 0.5 to1mm into dentin (n=12); Group B included teeth with prepared cavity depth 1.1 to 1.5mm into dentin (n=15); and Group C included teeth with prepared cavity depth 1.6 to 2mm into dentin (n=18). Group C was further sub-divided into two groups depending upon the presence (Group C-I) (n=10) or absence (Group C-II) (n=8) of visible crack line at the base of the cavity. All the teeth were restored with light cure posterior composite resin restorative material. Only the teeth in Group C-I were lined with light cure calcium hydroxide lining before restoration. High point corrections were done and final finishing and polishing of the restoration was done. The patients were recalled at 6 months and12 months, and the condition of restoration, tooth and signs and symptoms evaluated and recorded. Statistical package for social science (SPSS) version 22 was used for statistical analysis. A total of 45 teeth in 30 patients diagnosed with reversible pulpitis due to cracks were included in this study. There was significant difference between the depth of the crack (p=0.033) and failure. However, there was no significant difference (p=0.388) between the treatment outcome for absence or presence of crack line at the base of the cavity of depth 2mm into dentin. Posterior incomplete cracked teeth can be managed successfully in about 91.2% cases with direct composite resin restorative material for at least a period of 12months.
Optimization of the Thermokinetic Method for the Control of Weld Decay in AISI 304L and AISI 316L Stainless Steel Weldment
Authors: Utu O. G. , Atanmo P. N. , Onyenanu I. U. , Owauma K. C. , Olubambi P. A.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the control of weld decay in AISI 304L/316L alloy weldments for liquefied natural gas (LNG) and cryogenic environments using the Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding technique. Weldment samples were thermokinetically treated at 1050, 1100, and 1150°C and cooled in five mediums: Water, Salt, Natural Air, Salt with annealing, and Water with annealing, to retain carbon and chromium in solid solution at approximately 30°C. Furthermore, evaluation methods based on metallography i.e. optical microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Wear Test (i.e. wear rate and wear track) and electrochemical corrosion potential measurements were adopted. An experimental design table was developed using the design expert software 13.0. This helped develop a predictive mathematical model for ascertaining the optimum operating service conditions of the material. From the results, the optical microscopy analysis revealed that the control sample exhibited a more irregular pattern than others. Results showed that the control sample had a more irregular structure, while air-cooled samples exhibited smoother surfaces, indicating better bonding. SEM revealed a coarse surface with uneven particle distribution post-heat application. The predominant elements were Iron (Fe), Chromium (Cr), and Nickel (Ni). Corrosion potential varied between -0.5 to 0.15 V, demonstrating wave-like behaviour over time. Wear analysis indicated that lower coefficients of friction correlate with better wear resistance. Finally, response surface methodology (RSM) revealed that increasing temperature proportionally increased yield and corrosion rates. While the identified optimal values for Temperature are (1112.68°C), Material (316L), and Quenching Medium (SQ+SA), resulting in specific values such as Wear Rate (5.76896E-06), Coefficient of friction (0.224254), Corrosion Rate (0.395566), and Weight of Heat-Treated Sample (14.7797). The study enhances understanding of the mechanisms affecting welding and contributes to optimizing welding procedures for improved mechanical properties and corrosion resistance.
Urban Renovation from Precarious to Sustainable Districts: Study Case of Mvog-Ada in Yaounde
Authors: Nkasse Alain Aba , Emy Sandrine Masso
Published: October 2024

This article explores the possibility of transforming precarious neighbourhoods, commonly known as slums, into good-living and environmentally- friendly places by rethinking their layout. It examines the state of the study case and highlights the relationships between the road system, parcels of land and other components of the urban fabric, with the aim of resolving the problems caused by the poor occupation of urban space and the lack of architectural knowledges and basic infrastructure necessary for people's lives in Cameroon. This research addresses the problems of anarchic urbanisation, urban densification and unhealthy living conditions, it proposes concrete solutions for decongesting the area, strategically redeveloping the space and ensuring the sustainable development of the site, while incorporating a biomimetic and circular approach. To achieve this goal, it was important to put in place a renovation strategy that is both up-to-date and adapted to the local context. With this in mind, this work presents a comprehensive and innovative master plan designed to solve the problems of development, bad urban traffic and degradation of the area through the use of an appropriate methodology of sustainable urban planning. Finally, the concept of sustainable district is presented as a pillar of the development of precarious districts and as an opportunity of growth for the development of their country.
Finite Element Analysis and Design Optimisation of Welding robot base using ANSYS
Authors: Alhajri Fahad , Ali Alajmi Hadyan
Published: October 2024

The study on Finite Element Analysis and Design Optimization of a welding robot base using ANSYS explores the crucial role of welding robots in enhancing industrial productivity and quality. It addresses the challenges of structural integrity, operational efficiency, and durability under harsh conditions. The research focuses on optimizing the robot base design to withstand high production demands, using ANSYS for detailed modelling and simulation. It reviews previous studies highlighting the importance of vibrational characteristics and structural dynamics in robot design. The methodology involves creating a geometric model, defining material properties, meshing, and applying boundary conditions and loading scenarios. The results indicate that the optimized design significantly improves stress distribution, reduces deformation, and enhances the dynamic response, making the robot base more robust and reliable. The study concludes with recommendations for broader applications in robotic systems to improve safety and productivity in industrial settings.
Sustainable mobility and electric vehicle adoption: a study on the impact of perceived benefits and risks
Authors: Yildiz Bülent , Çiğdem Şemsettin , Meidutė-Kavaliauskienė Ieva
Published: October 2024

The shift towards sustainable transportation is becoming increasingly important as the negative impact of traditional fuel-powered vehicles on the environment becomes more evident. Electric Vehicles (EVs) are considered a viable solution to this problem, and understanding the factors that influence consumer intention to purchase EVs is crucial for their widespread adoption. This study investigates the factors that influence individuals’ intention to purchase EVs. 4 independent variables were considered: Perceived Environmental Benefit (PEB), Perceived Performance Benefit (PPB), Perceived Performance Risk (PPR), and Perceived Financial Risk (PFR). A survey was conducted with 398 respondents, and the data collected were analysed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). The results indicate that PEB, PPB, PPR, and PFR have significant effects on Purchase Intention (PI). Specifically, PEB and PPB positively affect PI, while PPR and PFR negatively affect it. These findings suggest that improving the PEBs and PPBs of EVs and reducing perceived performance and financial risks could encourage more individuals to purchase them.
Étude des liens familiaux des adolescents et des jeunes adultes atteints de cancer, et libre- réalisation de l’arbre généalogique
Authors: Veuillet-Combier Claudine , Kirakosyan Voskan
Published: October 2024

Contexte et objectif : la période de l’adolescence et du jeune adulte s’étend de 15 à 24 ans, durant laquelle le processus du devenir adulte et l’évolution du lien familial suscitent des questionnements et nécessitent une prise de distance de la famille. Cependant, l’apparition soudaine et inattendue du cancer, qui évoque la mort, confère une dimension particulière à ces interrogations, renvoyant le jeune à sa propre finitude. Notre objectif est d’étudier l’impact du cancer sur le lien familial, afin de comprendre dans quelle mesure il attaque ce lien. Méthode : nous avons mis en place une méthodologie qualitative proposant aux jeunes malades (n = 9) la Libre-réalisation de l’arbre généalogique (LRAg). Elle permet aux adolescents et jeunes adultes de mobiliser leurs propres codes et fantaisies pour réaliser l’arbre, réalisation suivie d’un temps d’échange permettant un travail de réappropriation subjective de leur histoire. Résultats : l’analyse transversale des résultats permet de mettre en avant deux thèmes, le premier étant l’« Expression graphique des participants », composé de sous-thèmes (Réalisation graphique et spatiale ; Inscriptions et construction de l’arbre généalogique ; Représentations des liens – alliance, filiation et fratrie – et projection vers l’avenir), et le second, l’« Expression verbale après la réalisation ». Conclusion : le cancer attaque les liens familiaux et rend difficile, voire parfois impossible, l’inscription dans la filiation et la projection vers l’avenir. Des travaux sont encore nécessaires pour mieux comprendre le coût psychique adaptatif du cancer.
Intégration des infirmiers en pratique avancée au parcours des patients atteints de maladies chroniques : perceptions des personnes âgées en soins primaires
Authors: Mille Marlène , Lebrun Camille , Duchossoir Céline , Leppek Katarzyna , Saynac Yohan , Ruelle Yannick , Margat Aurore
Published: October 2024

Introduction : Users’ perceptions of the deployment of advanced practice nurses (APNs) are considered as part of a health democracy approach and are an important determinant of APN deployment. Objective : To explore how older people perceive the integration of an APN into their primary care pathway. Method : Exploratory qualitative study using semi-directed interviews with older people being followed by an RPN. The analysis monitored an inductive thematic approach. Results : Eleven users were interviewed and reported that they were satisfied with the follow-up offered. Three main categories emerged from the verbatim analysis : the IPA is perceived as a professional capable of taking on several roles in the care pathway, his integration is part of a rapidly changing medicine, the users’ level of satisfaction is notable, highlighting a quality of relationship and an improvement in access to care. Discussion : Although French APNs have a different profile to those in other countries, users’ perceptions in France are similar to those reported elsewhere. The practice appears to be rooted in nursing science.
Recognition of partial discharge in GIS based on image feature fusion
Authors: Xu Ziqiang , Xu Honghua , Yuan Chao , Chen Shoulong , Chen Yini
Published: October 2024

Partial discharge (PD) is a significant electrical fault in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS), with various types posing different risks to insulation. Accurate identification of PD types is essential for enhancing GIS management and ensuring the reliability of electrical grids. This study proposes a novel approach for PD identification in GIS integrating completed local binary pattern (CLBP) feature extraction, feature engineering, and an optimized support vector machine (SVM). PD faults were simulated in GIS and phase-resolved pulse sequence (PRPS) data for four different forms of PD were gathered. CLBP was used to extract image features, and then the support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithm was used to evaluate feature importance. Then, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was used to fuse the selected features and reduce redundancy. The fused features were classified using a bald eagle search algorithm combined with differential evolution (IBES)-optimized SVM, achieving a recognition accuracy of 99.38%. The results indicate that the proposed method effectively distinguishes between different PD PRPS patterns in GIS.
Fat Tax
Authors: Cruz Sérgio Ravara , Damas Nina Santos
Published: October 2024

The objectives of this study are to analyze whether the fat tax stimulates a reduction in the consumption of taxed products and to assess whether the fat tax has led to an improvement in the population's health. The main conclusion of the study was that there was an increase in consumption of goods subject to the tax between 2016 and 2023. It also showed that the health of the Portuguese population in general has not improved with the implementation of the tax. The contributions of this article have made it possible to deepen our knowledge of fat tax consumption in the Portuguese population, and to study the perception of the level of health of the Portuguese after the implementation of the tax, something that previous studies had not addressed.
Taxation of the Non-Profit Sector in Portugal
Authors: Rocha Ana Paula
Published: October 2024

The encouragement and development of the social economy sector are recognized as values of general interest in Portugal. Therefore, the promotion of the social economy by the Portuguese public authorities is legally foreseen, namely through the provision of a more favorable tax status for the non-profit entities. However, the need to rethink and (perhaps) update the Portuguese tax legislation applicable to the social economy sector has often been discussed, namely, to guarantee that the tax benefits in force truly respect the most important tax principles. Moreover, the need to rethink the tax legislation applicable to the social economy sector have also been recognized at the European Union' level. Accordingly, and with the use of the legal methodology, the objective of our work is to identify and analyze the major opinions and recommendations that have been issued in this context by several European' organisms, in order to understand whether the Portuguese tax system is already upon those recommendations or, on the contrary, needs to be amended to keep up with them.
Adsorption Energies of X-Doped Fullerene (X = Si, Sn, BN): A First-Principles Study
Authors: Jannah Nikmatul , Apriati Yosephine Novita , Nugraheni Ari Dwi , Sholihun Sholihun
Published: October 2024

The interaction of dopamine and Si-, Sn-, and BN-doped fullerenes was studied by using the density functional theory (DFT). Adsorption energies of dopamine–C60, dopamine–C59Si, dopamine–C58Sn, and dopamine–C58BN were -0.03 eV, -1.46 eV, -0.06 eV, and -0.05 eV, respectively. All systems had negative adsorption energies, indicating that dopamine can be adsorbed on fullerene. Furthermore, dopamine–C59Si had the smallest value and was chemisorbed shown by a created covalent bond between Si of fullerene and N of dopamine. Therefore, C59Si has a plausible potential as a drug carrier for dopamine molecules.
Impact of Cations and Implicit Solvent on the Sensitivity of the Enol Tautomers of 3-Nitro-1,2,4-Triazole-5-One: A DFT Study
Authors: Prasetyo Niko , Hadisaputra Saprizal
Published: October 2024

The explosive sensitivity of the supramolecular interaction between cations (Mn+ = Li+, Na+, K+, Be2+, Ca2+ and Mg2+) with enol tautomers (c0 and c1) of 3-nitro-1,2,4-triazole-5-one (NTO) complexes has been investigated using Density Functional Theory (DFT). The effect of water as the solvent was included via the CPCM approach. At the gas phase, the presence of the metal cations, especially Be2+, significantly increased the bond dissociation energy (BDE) of C-NO2 of the enol tautomers. However, in the presence of the solvent, the BDE was lower than in the gas phase, even in the supramolecular complex of Be2+ - c0 and Be2+ - c1.
Changing Welding to Digital and Green - Actions and Communication
Authors: Savu Arianne Maria , Biholar Aurelia Ioana , Avram Alexandru Andrei , Florescu Mihaela Cecilia , Savu Ionel Danut
Published: October 2024

The implementation of Industry 4.0 is based, among other things, on the digitization and greening of manufacturing systems. Most traditional manufacturing systems are known for low productivity and efficiency. They are also known for the impact they have on the environment, with relatively high carbon footprints. The paper transfers a series of knowledge on the steps to be taken to transition a traditional manufacturing system to a digitized and green one. Customization of this discussion is done for manufacturing systems that have joining processes (welding and soldering). Each set of measures, whether aimed at the transition to digital or aimed at the transition to green, has two components: a technical component, directly related to the transformation of the hardware system (equipment, devices, measuring instruments) and a component auxiliary which is related to the transformation of the human resource, the modification of the working conditions and the continuous optimization of the newly created system. As no change is possible without removing employee misunderstandings and suspicions, the communication to be implemented must be clear, prompt, cover all levels of staff and continuously provide confidence by presenting successful cases and related beneficial figures.
Biaxial and Uniaxial Strain Effect on Structural and Electronic Properties of Anatase TiO2: A First-Principle Calculation
Authors: Zain Farahdina , Widayanti Widayanti , Sholihun Sholihun
Published: October 2024

The effect of biaxial and uniaxial strains on the electronic structure of anatase is studied using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation with ultrasoft pseudopotential and a generalized gradient approximation (GGA) Perdew-Burke Ernzerhof (PBE) exchange-correlation. The lattice constant is optimized using the Birch-Murnaghan equation of states (BM-EOS) to get an optimized geometric structure of anatase TiO2. We apply biaxial and uniaxial strains to this optimized structure up to 16% and find that the applied strains change the band gap energy compared to a pure anatase with a different band gap energy up to 1.61 eV for biaxial strain and 0.35 eV for uniaxial strain. The biaxial strains increase gap energies except at +16% tensile strain, decreasing the gap energy to 0.04 eV. Uniaxial strains tend to increase as the strains increase except at-12 and-16%; their gap energy differences are 0.08 and 0.20 eV, respectively, smaller than that of the zero strain. The results also show that the applied 16% tensile strain significantly lengthens the atomic bonds; thus, we conclude that the maximum strain applied to anatase TiO2 is 16%.
Welding Corrective Maintenance Solutions for Molds
Authors: But Adrian , Popescu Cristian Eusebiu , Duma Iuliana
Published: October 2024

Designing and manufacturing a new mold is laborious work and requires well-trained human resources but also considerable material investments. The achizition and implementation the CAD/CAM softwares, three and five-axis machining centers, cutting tools with high performance are necessary to processing a mold. That is why it is frequently used to repair used molds. This repair is done by welding and then manufacturing on machines with numerical control. The present paper presents these stages of corrective maintenance of a mold. Starting from a concrete case, the solutions for remediation of the used mold are presented. The two basic operations in retrofitting, welding and computer-assisted processing on CNC machines are also analyzed.
Effect of DOPA decarboxylase inhibitor supplements on the incidence of urinary tract infections in Parkinson’s disease patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: AlShoaibi Ismaeel , Abdo Basheer , Abdullah Mohammed , Alzanen Khaled , Alhakamy Mohammed , Al-Namer Mamoon , Al-Hagri Abdulghani , Salah Morshed , Salem Afrah , Almogahed Mohammed , Alnadhari Ibrahim , Ahmed Faisal
Published: October 2024

Objectives: Parkinson’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease. Combining levodopa with other drugs, including decarboxylase inhibitors (DCI) is its most effective treatment. Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common cause of hospitalization in Parkinson’s patients, making it crucial to find an appropriate treatment to reduce the incidence of this complication. This study aimed to investigate UTIs in Parkinson’s patients using levodopa with DCI supplements. Methods: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science were searched up to March 2024. Only randomized controlled trials involving Parkinson’s patients were included in the present study. Parkinson’s patients who used levodopa along with carbidopa or benserazide were considered the intervention group, while those who used levodopa with another drug were considered the control group.Results: Nine interventional studies were ultimately analyzed. The relative risk (RR) of UTI in patients taking DCI was 26% lower than those who did not (RR Treatment/Control = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58-0.95, p = 0.019). Furthermore, observations at different times of follow-up showed that at 13-24 weeks and at > 24 weeks of treatment with DCI, there was a reduction in the incidence of UTI (RR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.46-1.01 and RR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.58-1.0, respectively). On the contrary, there was an increase of the risk of UTI in the first 12 weeks of treatment with DCI (RR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.37-3.33). Conclusions: The results of this study indicated that using DCI drugs is associated with a reduced relative risk of developing UTIs. The beneficial effect of the drug showed after 12 weeks of treatment after an initial negative effect on the risk of UTI.
Barts flank-free modified supine position vs prone position in percutaneous nephrolithotomy: Systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Ananda I Gede Yogi Prema , Santosa Kadek Budi , Yudiana I Wayan , Tirtayasa Pande Made Wisnu , Pramana Ida Bagus Putra , Prayudi Nyoman Gede , Duarsa Gede Wirya Kusuma
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) has been performed in various positions, including prone position and several modifications of supine position. The Barts flank-free modified supine (FFMS) position is a newly enhanced version of the supine positions. This study aims to compare the outcomes of Barts FFMS and prone position in PCNL. Methods: This study followed PRISMA 2020 guideline and was registered to PROSPERO CRD42024530426. Comprehensive search in PubMed, Sciencedirect, and Scopus was conducted until May 2024. Stone-free rates, complications, surgery duration, fluoroscopy duration, use of nephrostomy, and length of stay were collected. Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.4. Results: A total of 4 studies were included in this review. There was no significant difference in stone-free rates between Barts FFMS and prone positions (OR = 1.12, 95% CI 0.64-1.95, p = 0.70). There were no significant difference in incidence of fever (OR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.38-2.18, p = 0.84), need for blood transfusion (OR = 0.46, 95% CI 0.11-1.88, p = 0.28), and urine leakage (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.16-1.05, p = 0.06). The surgery duration was significantly shorter in Barts FFMS position than in prone position (MD = -15.48, 95% CI [(-26.42)-(-4.55)], p = 0.006). There was no significant difference in patients requiring nephrostomy (OR = 0.19, 95% CI 0.01-3.75, p = 0.28). There were no significant difference in fluoroscopy duration (MD = 0.27, 95% CI [(-6.85)-7.40], p = 0.94) and the length of hospital stay (MD = -0.20, 95% CI [(-0.74)-0.33], p = 0.46). Conclusions: The surgery duration was significantly shorter in Barts FFMS position than in prone position. There were no significant differences regarding stone-free rates, complications, fluoroscopy duration, use of nephrostomy, and length of hospital stay. This indicates that neither Barts FFMS nor prone position is superior, and the choice should be based on the surgeon's preference and the patient's clinical status.
Comparative study between intrathecal fentanyl and dorsal penile nerve block for controlling postoperative pain after inflatable penile prosthesis implanation
Authors: Elatreisy Adel , Ahmed Yasser , Elgarhy Ahmed , Hindawy Mohamed , Abouelgreed Tamer , Ahmed Ismail , Abdalla Abdalla , Ramadan Hany , Aboelsuod Mohamed , Shrief Khaled , Mohamed Ayman , Ibrahim Wael , Abdelhameed Saeed , Alghamdi Mohammad , Alzahrani Mohammed Saleh , Youssof Hamada
Published: October 2024

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of intrathecal fentanyl and dorsal penile nerve block for postoperative pain management in patients undergoing inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP). Patients and methods: A prospective single-center study included 80 patients amenable to IPP. Patients were divided equally into two groups. Group I included 40 patients who were managed with spinal anesthesia with intrathecal fentanyl before undergoing IPP. Group II comprised 40 patients who received spinal anesthesia with dorsal penile block before IPP. Study groups were compared regarding postoperative VAS (Visual Analog Scale) scores, total narcotics consumption, patient satisfaction levels, and perioperative complications. Results: The study groups were comparable regarding baseline patients’ criteria. The operative time was comparable between the study groups, with group I and group II having respective median times of 64 minutes (interquartile range: 55-78) and 67 minutes (interquartile range: 56-81) (p = 0.65). Additionally, both groups demonstrated similar distributions in IPP implant cylinder and reservoir size (p = 0.9). Postoperative pain was higher in group I, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). Eight patients in group I (20%) called the physician’s office asking for pain medication, compared to two patients in group II (5%) (p = 0.04). 85% of patients in group II were highly satisfied compared to 50 % in group I (p = 0.003). We reported a 5% complication rate in group I compared to 2.5% in group II (p = 0.6). Conclusions: The present study found that the dorsal penile nerve block offers superior postoperative pain control and patient satisfaction compared to intrathecal fentanyl for patients undergoing inflatable penile prosthesis insertion.
Dynamic location model for designated COVID-19 hospitals in China
Authors: Fei Wang , Linghong Yuan , Weigang Zhang , Ruihan Zhang
Published: October 2024

In order to effectively cope with the situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, cases should be concentrated in designated medical institutions with full capability to deal with patients infected by this virus. We studied the location of such hospitals dividing the patients into two categories: ordinary and severe. Genetic algorithms were constructed to achieve a three-phase dynamic approach for the location of hospitals designated to receive and treat COVID-19 cases based on the goal of minimizing the cost of construction and operation isolation wards as well as the transportation costs involved. A dynamic location model was established with the decision variables of the corresponding ‘chromosome’ of the genetic algorithms designed so that this goal could be reached. In the static location model, 15 hospitals were required throughout the treatment cycle, whereas the dynamic location model found a requirement of only 11 hospitals. It further showed that hospital construction costs can be reduced by approximately 13.7% and operational costs by approximately 26.7%. A comparison of the genetic algorithm and the Gurobi optimizer gave the genetic algorithm several advantages, such as great convergence and high operational efficiency.
Tobacco cessation: screening and interventions
Authors: Seo Yoo-Bin , Song Sang-Wook , Kang Sung-Goo , Kim Soo Young
Published: October 2024

Background: Tobacco use has been the leading cause of disease and death in South Korea. Early detection of tobacco use and evidence-based interventions play pivotal roles in facilitating tobacco cessation.Methods: In accordance with the earlier iterations of the Lifetime Health Maintenance Program (2009) and recent recommendations from the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF; 2021), two themes were chosen for investigation: the identification of and intervention for tobacco use. The USPSTF recommendations were formulated by conducting an overview of reviews. In this study, literature searches and quality assessments of reviews were conducted.Results: The findings highlighted the efficacy of physician-led identification and advising in promoting tobacco cessation, with robust evidence supporting the implementation of behavioral and pharmacological interventions. These interventions significantly increased the likelihood of successful cessation compared with usual care. Digital interventions, such as internet- or mobile-based interventions, showed additive effects for quitting.Conclusion: Identification and targeted interventions are essential for tobacco cessation. By leveraging evidencebased strategies and enhancing access to resources, healthcare providers can empower individuals to achieve successful tobacco cessation and improve overall health outcomes.
Comparing the immediate Bronchodilatory effects of Salbutamol versus Formoterol: A General Practice Study in Patients with Moderate Asthma
Authors: Kruger C.M.
Published: October 2024

Objectives: To determine whether there is significant difference in the onset of bronchodilatory action between salbutamol, a short-acting beta-2 stimulant and formoterol, a long-acting beta-2 stimulant. Background: Current guidelines for the management of moderate asthmatics include the regular use' of inhaled corticosteroids in combination with long-acting beta-2 receptor stimulants. In such cases, short-acting beta-2 stimulants like salbutamol are used as rescue medication for sudden episodes of bronchoconstriction. lf, however, the bron-chodilatory effect of formoterol (long-acting) is comparable to that of salbutamol five minutes after administration, the question arises whether additional short-acting bronchodilators should be prescribed for such patients. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was measured before inhalation of the drug and repeated after exactly five minutes.The results before and after ihhalation,as well as the average results of each group were compared.Methods: A randomized, double blind controlled trial was conducted in a private family practice and included 20 patients with moderate asthma, randomly allocated to either the salbutamol or the formoterol group.Results: Both formoterol and salbutamol improved the PEFR significantly, exactly five minutes after inhalation. In comparing the two drugs; there were no significant differences in PEFR improvement between the two groups.Conclusions: The bronchodilatory action of for moterol five minutes after inhalation is comparable to that of salbutamol. Both are very effective bronchodilators, even at low therapeutic doses. The quick onset of action of formoterol makes it unnecessary for patients using this drug to carry additional beta-Z stimulants as rescue medication.The major disadvantage of formoterol is the cost of the medication.
The Hand Patient: Dorsal Ganglion of the Wrist
Authors: Mennen U.
Published: October 2024

No abstract available.
Medical student's perspective of problem based learning (PBL) curriculum at the University of Traskei
Authors: Meel B.L.
Published: October 2024

The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Transkei has completed the first 5 years of its problem-based community oriented teaching curriculum. The use of SWOT analysis to evaluate current and future directions can lead to the successful evolution of any organization. The aim of this study was to obtain a students' appraisal of the PBL Curriculum at the University of Transkei's Faculty of Health Sciences. Fourth-year Medical students were divided into 4 groups and were asked to describe the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in the PBL. The data of each group was prioritised. A majority of the student groups indicated that in terms of quality, the strengths of the system were stronger than its weaknesses. They also pointed out that there were more opportunities than threats. It was concluded that the PBL curriculum empowers the students by increasing skills that are relevant to existing health problems in the community. It also gives them the opportunity to meet the outcomes of the program in due time.
Preventing deformities in paediatric cerebral palsy in poorly-resourced areas: A scoping review
Authors: Van Aswegen Shayne R. , Richards Mark , Morrow Brenda
Published: October 2024

Background: Managing children with cerebral palsy (CP) in poorly-resourced contexts, especially those with greater functional limitations, is challenging. Unmitigated orthopaedic complications can further restrict already compromised functional capacity. Where rehabilitation skills and knowledge are scarce, primary healthcare worker- and caregiver-implemented routines are warranted. The essential elements of a home-based routine to mitigate musculoskeletal (MSK) complications in children with severe CP in resource-limited settings (RLSs) have not been determined.Objectives: To summarise the evidence for programmes and interventions that mitigate MSK complications in children with severe CP and make recommendations for a programme suited to RLSs.Method: Scientific databases and professional websites were searched for studies and reports describing guidelines, interventions or programmes for children aged 0–18 years with severe, partially- or non-ambulant CP, that included aims for the prevention of MSK complications. Articles reporting on surgical, pharmacological and advanced or expensive technological interventions were excluded.Results: A total of 57 studies or reports were included in the review. Low-grade evidence exists for 24-hour postural management (24-h PM), supported standing, sustained stretching and splinting to mitigate MSK complications in children with CP. Caregiver training and support, and integration of the programme into daily routines were identified as important components for successful implementation.Conclusion: Clinical guidelines and evidence that support caregiver-delivered interventions to reduce MSK complications in children with severe CP are limited, and only weak recommendations can be made.Clinical implications: There is a need for context-specific, home-based intervention programmes to prevent MSK complications in children with CP in RLSs.
Unstable minimal surfaces in $\mathbb{R}^{n}$ and in products of hyperbolic surfaces
Authors: Marković Vladimir , Sagman Nathaniel , Smillie Peter
Published: October 2024

We prove that every unstable equivariant minimal surface in

\mathbb{R}^{n}

produces a maximal representation of a surface group into

\prod_{i=1}^{n}\mathrm{PSL}(2,\mathbb{R})

together with an unstable minimal surface in the corresponding product of closed hyperbolic surfaces. To do so, we lift the surface in

\mathbb{R}^{n}

to a surface in a product of

\mathbb{R}

-trees, then deform to a surface in a product of closed hyperbolic surfaces. We show that instability in one context implies instability in the other two.
The $p$-colorable subgroup of Thompson’s group
Authors: Kodama Yuya , Takano Akihiro
Published: October 2024

V. F. R. Jones introduced a method of constructing knots and links from elements of Thompson’s group

F

by using its unitary representations. He also defined several subgroups of

F

as the stabilizer subgroups and some researchers studied them algebraically. One of the subgroups is called the

3

-colorable subgroup

\mathcal{F}

, and the authors proved that all knots and links obtained from non-trivial elements of

\mathcal{F}

are

3

-colorable. In this paper, for any odd integer

p

greater than two, we define the

p

-colorable subgroup of

F

whose non-trivial elements yield

p

-colorable knots and links and show it is isomorphic to a certain Brown–Thompson group.
The Epidemiological Impact of Dengue in Colombia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Rodríguez-Morales Alfonso J. , López-Medina Eduardo , Arboleda Iván , Cardona-Ospina Jaime A. , Castellanos Jaime E. , Faccini-Martínez Álvaro A. , Gallagher Elaine , Hanley Riona , Lopez Pio , Mattar Salim , Pérez Carlos Eduardo , Kastner Randee , Reynales Humberto , Rosso Fernando , Shen Jing , Villamil-Gómez Wilmer E. , Fuquen Marcela
Published: October 2024

Dengue is the most important viral vector-borne disease in the tropics, with Colombia being one of the most affected countries. In this context, it is essential to identify and synthesize the existing evidence on the epidemiology of dengue in Colombia. A systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42021257985) was conducted by searching for epidemiological data in populations with suspected or confirmed dengue in Colombia from 2012 to 2020. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, the LILACS, and SciELO databases, and 104 publications out of 1,234 records were selected. The dengue annual incidence rate varied through the years without a clear trend. The lowest annual incidence rate was observed in 2017 (90.7 per 100,000 population) and the highest in 2013 (476.2 per 100,000 population). The proportion of severe cases in the same period ranged between 0.89% in 2016 and 2.7% in 2012. The four dengue virus (DENV) serotypes co-circulated in the country, and DENV-2 was the predominant serotype. Fifty percent of dengue cases occurred in people under 20 years, and those between 5 and 14 years had the highest incidence rate. The mortality rate for all dengue cases ranged from 0.07% in 2020 to 0.16% in 2012 and 2015. In conclusion, dengue is a hyperendemic disease in Colombia with the circulation of four serotypes. New strategies must be implemented to prevent the contagion and impact of the disease on the population at risk.
Etiology of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome in Adults in a Tertiary Care Center in Eastern Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Rai Tulika Kumari , Chakravarty Jaya , Kashyap Shubham , Chatterjee Sumeet , Tiwari Vishwa Deepak , Rai Urvashi Geeta , Gangwar Mayank , Sundar Shyam , Nath Gopal
Published: October 2024

Seasonal outbreaks of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) with high case fatality rates have been commonly reported among adults in India. With an increase in Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccination, the etiology of AES is also changing. However, most studies on AES in India have focused only on children and on JEV. This study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University between 2020 and 2022 to determine the etiology of AES in adults. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were collected from patients 18 years or older with fever and altered sensorium for ≤15 days. We did IgM ELISA for dengue, chikungunya, West Nile virus, scrub typhus, leptospirosis from serum, CSF-IgM for JEV, and CSF–polymerase chain reaction for herpes simplex virus 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, enterovirus, and cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test (CBNAAT) for tuberculous meningitis (TBM). The most common cause of AES identified in our study was TBM (16.7%), followed by leptospirosis (15.1%) and scrub typhus (11.9%). The high occurrence of TBM in our study highlights the importance of CSF-CBNAAT for all AES patients. As leptospirosis and scrub typhus are easily treatable, early detection and treatment of these infections should be recommended.
The Transformative Impact of the African Cohort Study (AFRICOS) Toward Reaching HIV 95-95-95 Goals in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Shah Neha , Crowell Trevor A. , Hern Jaclyn , Anyebe Victor , Bahemana Emmanuel , Kibuuka Hannah , Singoei Valentine , Maswai Jonah , Parikh Ajay , Duff Emma R. , Cavanaugh Joseph Sean , Romo Matthew L. , Ake Julie A. , Reid Michael J. A. , Nkengasong AMB John N. , _ _
Published: October 2024

Over the last 20 years, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has rapidly expanded and made remarkable progress toward the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets to end the HIV epidemic. Nevertheless, HIV continues to pose a significant health challenge globally, with a particular impact on the African continent. Funded by PEPFAR, the African Cohort Study (AFRICOS) has served as a monitoring and evaluation tool for PEPFAR to help guide HIV policy and PEPFAR programming for the last 10 years since its inception and offers a compelling example of how PEPFAR’s investment in science continues to reap dividends. This paper details and critically reviews the transformative research AFRICOS has had on helping to end the HIV epidemic as a public health threat by 2030.