bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of Food Safety in Correctional Homes: A Mixed-methods Study from West Bengal, India
Authors: Mitra Satabdi , Bhanja Sushanta , Basu Rivu , Majumdar Kunal Kanti , Joardar Gautam Kumar
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Food safety and hygiene management are an important global public health concern. In correctional homes, people live with sketchy basic amenities and health-care facilities. Here the eating establishments run through mass self-catering services by inmates themselves. As noncompliance to hygienic and sanitary food handling can pose threat to food-borne illnesses, the current study was conducted to assess the status and bottleneck of safe food practice in eating establishments of correctional homes.

Materials and Methods:

A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted over 10 months in three correctional homes of Kolkata. With pro forma based on Food Safety and Standard Rules, food and environmental hygiene of eating establishments was observed and thirty food handlers were assessed for knowledge and practice related to food hygiene. Two food samples from each establishment were collected for laboratory examination for contamination, if any. Superintendents and welfare officers were interviewed in-depth for barriers toward safe food practice. QDA miner lite, 2022 was used for the analysis.

Results:

All the three eating establishments were categorized as “poor” having total scores of <50% in various facets of food safety and none of the food handlers scored above cut-off value. One food sample has showed bacterial growth after incubation. Content analysis revealed knowledge gap in part of handlers besides unstructured monitoring, lack of health check-ups to have maximum coding frequency, and strongest links.

Conclusion:

Food safety in correctional homes under the study at each step including monitoring is dreary. Training of food handlers and their supervisors besides regular health screening is the need of the hour.
A comparative evaluation of the effect of matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth restored with Everstick-reinforced composite resin: An in vitro study
Authors: Dhok Vaishnavi Deepak , Khanvilkar Unmesh Deepak , Moogi Prashant Prakash , Bandekar Siddhesh Dattatray , Kshirsagar Shirin , Jadhav Sanket Rajendra
Published: November 2024

Aim:

To evaluate the effect of applying a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor on the fracture resistance of root-filled teeth restored with Everstick fiber-reinforced composite resin.

Subjects and Methods:

After the selection of 60 freshly extracted human mandibular first molar, root canal access and standard uniformly sized mesio-occluso-distal (MOD) cavities were made and the teeth were randomly assigned into three groups (n = 20 each): Group I, the MOD cavity was first lined with flowable composite resin and then restored with composite resin. In Group II, Everstick fiber was placed into the bed of flowable composite in buccal–pulpal–lingual direction before the composite restoration was placed. In Group III, after etching of the cavity, a 2% chlorhexidine MMP inhibitor was applied. Then, the MOD cavity was restored same as group II. A universal testing machine was employed to compressively load the teeth at a cross-head speed of 0.5 mm/min till fracture. The maximum fracture loads were recorded in Newtons (N) and data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey tests.

Results:

Group III exhibited significantly higher fracture resistance compared to all other groups (P < 0.001), whereas Group I demonstrated the lowest fracture resistance.

Conclusion:

The utilization of Everstick glass fiber, combined with MMP inhibitor treatment, yielded the greatest fracture resistance. Hence, this method may be prioritized over conventional restoration techniques for strengthening root canal-treated teeth with structurally compromised crowns.
Impact of gamma radiation on marginal adaptation of nanohybrid composite and composition of dental hard tissues – Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis: An in vitro pilot study
Authors: Bansal Dolphi , Bansal Rajinder Kumar , Dora Tapas Kumar , Bansal Manu , Garg Reeshu , Kaur Manmeet
Published: November 2024

Aims:

This pilot study aimed to compare the marginal adaptation of composite resin at the tooth-restoration interface, before and after radiation.

Subjects and Methods:

Fifteen extracted premolars were divided into 2 experimental groups (based on the timing of irradiation) and 1 control group of 5 teeth each. In Group I (control group), teeth were restored but not exposed to radiation at any stage, Group II: teeth were irradiated before cavity preparation and restoration, and Group III: after cavity preparation and restoration employing selective etch technique, teeth were exposed to radiation. The samples were then sectioned buccolingually to analyze the extent of the marginal gap under scanning electron microscopy and compositional alteration of dental hard tissues by X-ray diffraction study. The data collected were analyzed statistically.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The statistical software used was IBM SPSS version 23 New York, USA, and analysis was done using two-way ANOVA followed by Turkey’s post hoc test, this difference in the mean marginal gap between all three groups was nonsignificant (P ≥ 0.05).

Results:

In the control group (Group I), a minimum gap (4.203 µm ± 0.533) was observed at the tooth-restoration interface, indicating the highest level of adaptation as compared to Group II (5.816 µm ± 0.762) and Group III (4.862 µm ± 1.018). This suggests that radiation adversely affected the bonding between composite materials and both enamel and dentin, attributed to the alterations induced by radiotherapy in the chemical, physical, and morphological properties of both tooth structure and composite resin.

Conclusions:

Ionizing radiations adversely affect the bonding between enamel, dentin, and composite resin. Hence, restorative procedures should be performed before undergoing radiotherapy.
Shear bond strength evaluation of bioactive restorative materials on pretreated carious dentin-influence on silver diamine fluoride, potassium iodide, and glutathione
Authors: Sharma Nupur , Nikhil Vineeta , Mishra Preeti , Ravinder Rohit
Published: November 2024

Background:

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has gained popularity for its caries-arresting properties, yet its tendency to cause esthetic concerns due to black-staining limits its widespread acceptance.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the shear bond strength of Activa BioActive and Giomer restorative material with different protocols of SDF pretreatment on carious dentin.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety-two extracted teeth were decoronated at the cementoenamel junction, sectioned 1 mm into dentin, mounted in acrylic resin and randomly divided into four (n = 8) control and six (n = 10) experimental groups. Seventy-six samples underwent demineralization process for a period of 14 days for artificial carious dentin (ACD) formation. The samples categorized based on the dentin substrate (sound or ACD) were subjected to various SDF pretreatment protocols, i.e., only SDF, SDF with potassium iodide (KI), and SDF with glutathione (GSH). Further, bioactive restorative materials, i.e., Activa BioActive and Giomer (Beautifil II), were placed on it, and the samples were subjected to shear bond strength testing.

Statistical Analysis:

Independent t-test was run to analyze the values obtained.

Results:

Giomer exhibited better mean bond strength with SDF, SDF + KI, and SDF + GSH (6.56, 4.67, and 3.34 mega-pascals [MPa], respectively) compared to Activa BioActive (3.42, 3.27, and 2.96 MPa, respectively).

Conclusion:

This study contributes to understanding the interplay between SDF application protocols, esthetic concerns, and the adhesive properties of bioactive restorative materials. Giomer exhibited enhanced bond strength after SDF application, unlike Activa BioActive. In addition, incorporation of KI or GSH adversely affected the bond strength of both the restorative materials, underscoring the critical need for cautious clinical application.

Clinical Relevance:

This study highlights the importance of selecting appropriate dentin pretreatment agents to maximize the bond strength of bioactive restorative materials with carious dentin. SDF application significantly enhanced the bond strength of Giomer with carious dentin compared to Activa BioActive, thus, making it a good choice for restoring nonesthetic areas. In addition, the application of KI or GSH to mitigate discoloration of carious dentin negatively affected the bond strength of both, Activa BioActive and Giomer. Thus, the clinicians should weigh the benefits of SDF against potential bond strength reductions when using KI or GSH, especially for esthetic restorations.
Treating apical fenestration in a previously endodontically treated tooth
Authors: Rajesh K. S , Farooq Riza , Rajak F Abdul , Kumar Pradeep
Published: November 2024

Apical fenestration is a defect in the alveolar cortical plate, exposing the root without involving the alveolar bone margin, often linked to trauma, periodontal disease, and orthodontic treatment, leading to symptoms such as pain and abscesses from endodontic infections. This case report describes managing a mucosal fenestration in an endodontically treated tooth with nonsurgical root canal therapy and periodontal surgery. A 44-year-old male presented with mucosal fenestration and pain in the upper front jaw due to trauma and an inadequately treated root canal. Examination revealed an ill-fitting crown and an open apex with periapical radiolucency. Treatment included scaling, root planing, nonsurgical root canal therapy, apexification using Biodentine, and obturation with bioceramic sealer. Persistent fenestration necessitated periodontal surgery to remove extruded material and place an alloplastic graft. Apical fenestrations, although uncommon, require coordinated endodontic and periodontal treatment for successful outcomes.
Outcome of Coronary Edge In-stent Restenosis Management by Restenting Versus Drug-Eluting Balloon
Authors: Metwally Yasser Gaber , Elnady Khaled Yehia , El-Ghaffar Tarek Abd , Seddik Eman Hesham , Shaker Ahmed , Swailem Fathy Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Background:

The optimal therapeutic strategy for coronary intervention in edge in-stent restenosis (edge ISR) remains less well-defined.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess 12-month outcomes of re-stenting using drug-eluting stents (DESs) versus using drug-eluting balloon (DEB) for managing coronary edge ISR.

Patients and Methods:

One hundred and four patients with edge ISR were randomly assigned to either DES or DEB. The primary endpoint was stent failure at 12-month follow-up.

Results:

Significantly lower target vessel revascularization among the DEB group compared to restenting group, (7.7% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.04). Likewise, target vessel-related myocardial infarction rate was significantly lower among the DEB group than restenting (5.7% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.04). On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the rates of deaths or restenosis between the two groups.

Conclusion:

The DEB is superior to the DES with better both safety and efficacy.
Percutaneous Closure of Postmyocardial Infarction Ventricular Septal Rupture – A Single Center Experience from the Eastern Part of India
Authors: Islam Nurul , Saha Siddhartha , Parida Ashok Kumar , Dutta Satyendra Nath
Published: November 2024

Background:

Postinfarction ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a rare but lethal mechanical complication of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). It results in 90%–95% mortality within 2 months of diagnosis without any kind of intervention. Given high surgical mortality, transcatheter closure has emerged as a potential strategy and as an alternative to high-risk surgical closure. Indian data on percutaneous device closure of post-AMI VSR are limited; hence, we report our resource-limited single-center experience with different kinds of occluder devices for closure of post-AMI VSR.

Methods and Results:

In this single-center, retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent transcatheter closure of postmyocardial infarction (MI) VSR between 2018 and 2024 at Health World Hospitals in Durgapur, West Bengal, were included. The primary outcome was a mortality rate of 30 days. The study population was eleven primary cases of post-MI VSR. The mean age of the population was 61 years. The majority of the patients had anterior wall MI (54.5%), and the remaining had inferior wall MI. Different kinds of devices (Amplatzer atrial septal occlude, post-MI VSD device, and Konar-Multifunctional Occluder) were used to close VSR. Successful closure was performed in 9 patients (81%) with minimal residual shunt in 2 patients. Of 9 cases, 3 patients expired; one was lost to follow-up, and the rest are doing well at 30-day follow-up.

Conclusion:

Transcatheter closure of PMI VSRs can be performed with different kinds of devices with high technical success, relatively low procedural complication rates, and a good 30-day survival even in a setup outside the metropolis with limited availability of devices, as an alternative to very high-risk surgical closure.
Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology of Ovarian Tumors With Histopathological Correlation: A Revisit to Borderline Category
Authors: Hasan Zoya , Singh Meeta , Singh Jyoti , Chellani Gautam , Nisam Irfana , Rakheja Garima , Jain Shyama , Khurana Nita , Mandal Shramana , Rathi Arun K. , Mala Yedla M. , Batra Radhika
Published: November 2024

Background:

Borderline ovarian tumors (BOTs) comprise 15%–20% of all ovarian epithelial malignancies. The majority of them are serous tumors followed by mucinous tumors. Pre-operative cytological diagnosis plays an important role with histopathology being the gold standard. The present study aimed to assess the sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of cytology in the diagnosis of epithelial ovarian tumors with special emphasis on the cytologically borderline category.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was conducted in our institute over five years from January 2017 to December 2022. This was a retrospective study and included 92 patients with ovarian masses who were subjected to ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (FNA) as a preliminary diagnostic procedure. Cytology smears were examined and categorized as benign, borderline, and malignant. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy were assessed considering histopathology as the gold standard.

Results:

In the present study, 92 ovarian FNA cytology were performed. Aspirates were adequate in all but 10 cases. Out of 82 cases, 75 were epithelial tumors. Twelve cases of BOTs were compiled and cytological findings were assessed.

Conclusion:

To conclude, diagnosis of BOTs on cytology is difficult, however, aspiration from multiple sites from the lesion, critical cytomorphological assessment, and cell-block preparation with immunocytochemistry/immunohistochemistry can overcome the pitfalls.
Inter- and Intra-observer Reproducibility of Thyroid Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology: An investigation of Bethesda 2023 Using Immunohistochemical BRAFV600E Antibody
Authors: Bahattin Erdogan , Emine Dündar , Kısmet Çivi Çetin , Fatih Yılmaz
Published: November 2024

Background:

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytology (TBSRTC) recommended for the interpretation of needle aspiration cytology of the thyroid, is the most widely used worldwide. Studies have shown that the disagreement between observers, especially in the Bethesda III and IV diagnostic categories, is not insignificant at 10%–40%. In the TBSRTC 2023 version, some definitions were removed and simplified, and molecular pathology was proposed as a complement to cytopathology. The current availability of molecular tests is limited because they can be performed in a few centers and are expensive. Therefore, our study investigated intra- and inter-observer agreement according to TBSRTC 2023 using only immunohistochemically BRAFV600E antibodies.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 173 cases with aspiration cytology evaluated between 2019 and 2022. The immunohistochemical procedure applied BRAFV600E (RM8) monoclonal antibody to cell block sections. All slides were assessed and categorized by three different observers. Data were interpreted using Cohen’s kappa and Fleiss’s kappa test in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Windows 2021 program.

Results:

For the applied RM8 antibody, sensitivity was 64.71% and specificity was 87.27%. In terms of diagnostic categories, inter-observer agreement was good for Bethesda II (K = 0.606) and moderate for Bethesda III (K = 0.429), Bethesda IV (K = 0.523), Bethesda V (K = 0,464), and Bethesda VI (K = 0.544), respectively.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the study reveals that the 2023 version of TBSRTC provides improvement, especially in the categories of uncertain diagnosis, but is still insufficient to improve cytological diagnostic accuracy, at which point molecular analyses become even more important.
Bilateral Vertebral Artery Fenestration in a Case of Craniovertebral Junction Neurenteric Cyst: Implications for Surgical Planning
Authors: Datta Debajyoti , Sekar Arunkumar , Verma Gaurav , Gulla Krishna M.
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Vertebral artery fenestration (VAF) is a type of anomaly of the vertebral artery in which a segment of the vessel divides into two separate channels that join together later in the course. Neurenteric cysts are rare, congenital lesions arising within the spinal canal usually in the cervical region. Vertebral artery anomalies if not considered during operative planning can lead to iatrogenic injury. We report a case of a 5-year-old boy who presented with a history of acute onset, non-traumatic spastic quadriparesis. Examination revealed the presence of cervical neurenteric cyst present ventrally at C1–C3 level. Further workup revealed the presence of bilateral VAF with the fenestrated part going along the inferior aspect of the arch of atlas bilaterally. Surgical excision of the lesion was done taking into consideration the anomalous course of vertebral artery. VAFs are classified according to their location as intracranial or extracranial and according to the segment of the vertebral artery from which they arise (V1–V4). Iatrogenic injury to the vertebral artery has been reported during both anterior and posterior approaches to the cervical spine. Due consideration should be given to anomalous course of vertebral artery while planning the surgical approach in craniovertebral junction.
Fall from Height in Pediatric Age Group: A Retrospective Review from a Tertiary Neurosurgical Center in India
Authors: Arumalla Kirit , Kulkarni Akshay , Sadashiva Nishanth , Konar Subhas , Singh Gyani Jail , Gopalakrishna Nanjundaiah , Saini Jitender , Nadeem Mohammad , Shukla Dhaval , Devi Bhagavatula Indira
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Introduction:

Unintentional falls from height are a major cause of pediatric traumatic injury. This retrospective study investigated the characteristics, clinic-radiological features, and associated outcomes in a tertiary referral neurosurgical center.

Materials and Methods:

This study is a retrospective review of children below 16 years who presented to our neurosurgery referral center from January 2018 to 2019 with a history of fall from height. The demographic data, clinical parameters at presentation, imaging findings, clinical status at discharge, and outcome at the follow-up period were analyzed.

Results:

Of the 1,310 children with a history of neurotrauma, 520 (39.7%) of them had a history of fall from height, among which 67% were falls from short height. The mean age was 5.99 ± 4.9 years. Of these 82.8% of children had mild, 13.8% moderate, and 3.2% had severe head injury. The imaging findings were normal in 59%, subgaleal hematoma in 18.6%, extradural hematoma in 9.9%, and spinal injuries in 1.4%. The regression analysis showed age, gender, the height of the fall, loss of consciousness, and seizure as predictors of the severity of the head injury. The Median Glasgow Outcome Scale-Extended at the follow-up period was one. About 2.3% of children had mortality within 1 week after the injury. The midline shift and associated injury had a significant impact on the outcome.

Conclusion:

In our retrospective study age, gender, height of fall, loss of consciousness, and seizures were associated with the severity of head injury. The presence of midline shift and other associated injuries was associated with the outcome at follow-up.
Novel KIF5C Gene Mutation Leading to Frontal Pachygyria: A Rare Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Kotechaa Udhaya , Mistri Mehul , Shah Parth , Shah Nidhi , Jain Vivek , Goyal Manisha
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Lissencephaly or smooth brain can be classified based on the site of predominant cortical involvement. Identification of “gene-imaging pattern” associations facilitates specific analysis in some genes. KIF5C, a motor kinesin has been implicated in cortical dysplasia with eight reported cases to date. The Glu237 residue represents a hotspot being substituted in six out of seven patients. A uniform pattern of neuroimaging with a predominant frontal and mesio-frontal pachygyria has been observed in patients with mutations in the hotspot residue. Two different de novo disease-causing variants (nonhotspot mutations) were detected to be causative in the remaining two patients, resulting in posterior predominant pachygyria. This has led to the hypothesis of a mutation-specific imaging pattern, in KIF5C-associated lissencephaly. We hereby present a female with a novel nonhotspot mutation in the KIF5C gene. Using whole exome sequencing, a novel de novo missense mutation c.265T>C (p.Ser89Pro) of KIF5C was identified. Neuroimaging revealed a predominant frontal pachygyria, which is akin to the pattern observed with the Glu237 hotspot residue of KIF5C. We also compared the phenotype between patients with and without involvement of the hotspot residue and were able to show that no major differences exist between both groups. We expand the currently known narrow KIF5C mutation spectrum and challenge the notion of a typical pattern of “mutation-specific” imaging abnormality.
Pharmacology and Articular Cartilage Regeneration: A New Strategy for Osteoarthritis
Authors: John P.S. , John Ann M. , Varghese Ruby , Lamrood Prasad Y. , Varghese Nibu , Dalvi Yogesh B.
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Osteoarthrosis is a slowly progressive, multifactorial, and non-inflammatory degenerative disease affecting synovial joints and is typically associated with aging or previous joint damage.

Method:

Fifty male Sprague Dawley rats were utilized in the study and divided into five groups, with ten rats in each group. The experiment was divided into two phases: in Phase 1, ten animals received 50 μL of saline in the left tibiotarsal joint and served as the control group (SAL), while the other four groups (n = 40) received a single dose of 50 μL complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) to induce monoarthritis. In Phase II, after the induction of monoarthritis, from the fourth week onward, the rats in the four CFA-induced monoarthritis groups were treated with 20 μl of gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), serotonin (SERO), or a neurotransmitter cocktail (NTC) which were given intra-articularly once for three consecutive weeks, while one group was kept as an experimental control. The animals were monitored throughout the experiment, for ankle diameter, gait, and radiological assessment, and were then euthanized and subjected to histopathological evaluation at the conclusion of the study.

Results:

The study found that there were statistically significant differences in the degree of inflammation between the CFA group and the groups treated with GABA, SERO, and NTC. The CFA group exhibited the most severe and persistent inflammation, whereas the NTC group showed a milder and shorter inflammatory response than the control group (SAL). In terms of gait score, the NTC treatment resulted in a significant reduction in score compared to the treatments with GABA and SERO administered separately. The radiological scores revealed that NTC was the most effective treatment in mitigating radiographic evidence of joint damage, with a significant decrease in bone destruction. The histopathological examination showed that the NTC group had minimal tissue damage or inflammation and had a regenerative effect compared to the other treatment groups.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the local administration of neurotransmitters was found to be effective in reversing inflammation, improving gait score, and mitigating radiological changes in CFA-induced arthritis in the murine model.
Pediatric cataract surgery in congenital anterior segment dysmorphology: An overview
Authors: Chattannavar Goura , Lasrado Adeline Shona , Kekunnaya Ramesh
Published: November 2024

The purpose is to highlight the surgical modifications that are undertaken for a safe cataract surgery when associated with anterior segment dysmorphology. Surgical modifications that are undertaken in a case of congenital cataract complicated with congenital anterior segment dysmorphology such as microcornea, congenital corneal opacity, aniridia, anterior and posterior lenticonus of the lens, and persistent fetal vasculature are described. Careful preoperative assessment is crucial to anticipate and plan for intraoperative and postoperative challenges that may arise during cataract surgery in the presence of anterior segment dysmorphology. Surgical adjustments in cataract surgery when associated with anterior segment dysmorphology should be tailored to each individual case and the surgeon’s expertise.
On elements of prescribed norm in maximal orders of a quaternion algebra
Authors: Goren Eyal Z. , Love Jonathan R.
Published: November 2024

Let

$\mathcal {O}$

be a maximal order in the quaternion algebra over

$\mathbb Q$

ramified at p and

$\infty $

. We prove two theorems that allow us to recover the structure of

$\mathcal {O}$

from limited information. The first says that for any infinite set S of integers coprime to p,

$\mathcal {O}$

is spanned as a

${\mathbb {Z}}$

-module by elements with norm in S. The second says that

$\mathcal {O}$

is determined up to isomorphism by its theta function.
Tracial states on groupoid $C^{*}$-algebras and essential freeness
Authors: Li Kang , Zhang Jiawen
Published: November 2024

Let

\mathcal{G}

be a locally compact Hausdorff étale groupoid. We call a tracial state

\tau

on a general groupoid

C^{*}

-algebra

C_{\nu}^{*}(\mathcal{G})

canonical
if

\tau=\tau|_{C_0(\mathcal{G}^{(0)})}\circ E

, where

E:C^{*}_{\nu}(\mathcal{G}) \to C_{0}(\mathcal{G}^{(0)})

is the canonical conditional expectation. In this paper, we consider so-called fixed point traces on

C_{c}(\mathcal{G})

, and prove that

\mathcal{G}

is essentially free if and only if any tracial state on

C_{\nu}^{*}(\mathcal{G})

is canonical and any fixed point trace is extendable to

C_{\nu}^{*}(\mathcal{G})

.As applications, we obtain the following: (1) a group action is essentially free if every tracial state on the reduced crossed product is canonical and every isotropy group is amenable; (2) if the groupoid

\mathcal{G}

is second-countable, amenable and essentially free then every (not necessarily faithful) tracial state on the reduced groupoid

C^{*}

-algebra is quasidiagonal.
First Cases of Transplacental Transmission of Anaplasma spp. in Gabon: Cases Reports and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Morisho Lambert Mulakwa , Ovono Jean Jordan Ekogha , Amisi Charles Bamavu , Manikase Serge Gakne
Published: November 2024

Anaplasma spp. is an emerging human zoonosis, usually transmitted by tick bites. Human-to-human transmission is rare, and transplacental transmission is even less common. No cases of transplacental transmission have been previously reported.We report the cases of patients who were followed up for febrile syndrome diagnosed with maternal-fetal infection and treated with antibiotic therapy and hemodynamic correction. Investigation of the etiology revealed Anaplasma spp. in a neonatal infection.These cases prove that transplacental transmission of Anaplasma spp. is possible and that surveillance is important.
¿Quiénes Componen el Nivel Intermedio? Un Estudio de Caso sobre Organizaciones de Mejora Escolar en Chile
Authors: Rodriguez Espinoza Simón , Weinstein Cayuela José
Published: November 2024

Cada vez más la literatura especializada comprende que el nivel intermedio (“middle tier”) se compone de diversas organizaciones y actores que operan con roles diferenciales y complementarios. Sin embargo, su conocimiento es aún incipiente. El presente artículo se basa en un estudio cuyo objetivo es describir las organizaciones de mejora escolar que, desde niveles inmediatamente superiores al centro educativo, tienen el rol de apoyo al liderazgo escolar. Se realizó un estudio de caso único de tipo descriptivo cualitativo, empleando una metodología de mapas narrativos, correspondiente a un grupo de asesores técnicos de un nuevo Servicio Local de Educación Pública (SLEP) de Chile. Los resultados muestran una diversidad de representaciones y reconocen seis tipos de funciones realizadas por estas organizaciones desde la perspectiva de asesores técnicos y sus superiores. Se discute la articulación entre las dimensiones estructural, en red y ecológica de la mejora escolar, junto con el papel de conector de políticas y agente de cambio por parte de profesionales líderes del nivel intermedio con las organizaciones de mejora presentes en su entorno.
Potenciales Líderes Medios en las Políticas de Inclusión Escolar en Chile
Authors: Valdés Morales René , Cabrera Francisca , Palma Evelyn , Mora Fernanda , Roldán Alexander
Published: November 2024

Los estudios sobre liderazgo e inclusión se han centrado principalmente en los equipos directivos. No obstante, todavía la información es insuficiente en cuanto al potencial de otros líderes escolares, como líderes medios y/o profesionales no docentes, para el desarrollo de procesos inclusivos. Este artículo reporta los resultados de un estudio documental sobre políticas educativas de inclusión e interculturalidad con el fin de conocer las demandas que se le asignan a las y los potenciales lideres medios en Chile. Mediante un enfoque cualitativo se analizaron 28 textos oficiales (leyes, decretos y documentos orientadores) mediante la técnica de análisis de contenido. Los principales resultados destacan un conjunto de profesionales docentes (como profesores/as de educación especial y jefes/as de unidad técnico-pedagógica) y no docentes (como psicólogos/as, fonoaudiólogos/as, psicopedagogos/as y trabajadores/as sociales) que son demandados en las políticas de inclusión en dimensiones como: trabajo colaborativo, atención de la diversidad, autoformación, sensibilización, convivencia escolar y apoyo psicosocial. Se concluye que se debe invertir en el desarrollo, reconocimiento y apoyo de líderes medios como figuras clave en materia de inclusión e interculturalidad.
A Review of Implementations of Math Competency Oriented Teaching-Learning Systems
Authors: Chirinos Timoteo Harold Braulio , Coral Ignacio Marco Antonio
Published: November 2024

Mathematical skills are fundamental to students' cognitive and practical development and are essential to their academic and professional success. The implementation of effective teaching-learning systems is crucial to facilitate the acquisition of these competencies, providing students with tools and methodologies that promote a deep and lasting understanding of mathematical concepts, these systems must be interactive, adaptive and designed to address the individual needs of students, ensuring that each student can reach his or her maximum potential. This paper seeks to identify the methods used in the implementation of these systems, the technology and the relevant factors for their construction. The results show that gamification and game-based learning are popular and effective methods, while block-based programming is considered to be efficient. Factors include curriculum design, interactivity and content. Among the most used technologies, scratch and virtual reality (VR) are mentioned.
Effect of Aphantasia on Academic Achievement and Learning Styles in Higher Education
Authors: Eker Oznur , Ozer Bayram , Gencel Nurgun
Published: November 2024

This investigation targets to clarify Learning Styles (LSs) of aphantasic and non-aphantasic higher education students/graduates in accordance with Vermunt Learning Style Model and to LSs of the participants according to their demographic characteristics such as gender and age. Model of study is relational screening and research was carried out online with 260 volunteer participants. "Vermunt Learning Styles Inventory" was utilized to determine LSs of two separate groups with and without aphanatic. Although there are many studies on the LSs in literature, there are very limited study on the Vermunt Learning Style. Differences were found in the learning orientation and academic success of aphantasic people compared to non-aphantasic people. It was concluded that academic achievements of aphantasic participants were higher than the academic achievements of the non-aphantasic participants. When literature is examined, there is no research to examine level of imagination in terms of the LSs and academic success. Therefore, it is thought that the studies to be carried out by expanding scope with different sample groups will contribute to the aphantasic individuals, students and educators with this research. More studies can be done on this subject and experiments can be made for its use in the field of guidance.
Longitudinal Analysis of Hispanic Literacy Development in the Southwestern US: Addressing the Fourth-Grade Slump and Corresponding Matthew Effect
Authors: Godina Heriberto
Published: November 2024

Hispanic literacy development in the Southwestern US is examined through standardized assessment data derived from recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and Texas Academic Performance Reports (TAPR). This longitudinal study focuses on significant variables across a spectrum of grade levels for Hispanics of Mexican descent. Results confirm a steady decline in reading performance after 4th grade. At the secondary level, a corresponding Matthew effect is also detected—whereby students whose reading development begins to decline in 4th grade continues to decline in secondary grades. Socioeconomic status (SES), gender, and bilingual language development are correlated as mitigating factors for reading performance. Hispanic students who attended a slightly more affluent and racially diverse high school showed moderately better reading scores. Hispanic males with low SES should be seen as most at-risk for reading failure in this region. Recommendations for alleviating these developmental literacy challenges include a more systematic implementation of Science of Teaching Reading (STR) at the earlier grade levels and raising awareness about gender differences in reading instruction. Parents, educators, and administrators interested in Hispanic reading development should find this study informative.
Improving ESP University Students’ Writing Skills and Academic Flow: A Six Thinking Hats Blended Learning Program Based Moodle
Authors: Zahran Faten A.
Published: November 2024

This study explored the impact of Six Thinking Hats blended learning program-based Moodle on ESP university students' writing skills and academic flow. Four instruments -designed by the researcher- that included: (a writing skills checklist, a writing skills test, a writing scoring rubric, and an academic flow scale) were used for collecting data. The research adopted the quasi-experimental design using two groups: an experimental group (n = 33), and a control one (n = 33). The researcher taught both groups: the experimental group was taught using Six Thinking Hats blended learning program-based Moodle. In contrast, the control group was taught through the regular teaching method. Research results revealed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the experimental and the control group students in the writing skills tests and the academic flow scale in favor of the experimental group. Besides, the effect size of the six thinking hats blended learning program-based Moodle was high.
Innovation in Vietnamese Higher Education for Society 5.0: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategies
Authors: Nguyen Anh Quang
Published: November 2024

The inception of Super Smart Society 5.0 marks a pivotal epoch in which technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain technology stand at the forefront of redefining the educational landscape. This article delves into the implications of this paradigm shift for higher education, particularly within the framework of Vietnam's comprehensive education reform initiative. Through an exhaustive review of the existing literature, the article elucidates the crucial role that innovation in higher education enhances the quality of education, and it further explores the challenges and opportunities that Society 5.0 presents. Moreover, the article proposes actionable strategies for Vietnamese higher education institutions to capitalize on technological advancements and ensure sustainable development in the forthcoming era. By offering an analytical perspective, this article contributes to the ongoing discourse regarding the future trajectory of Vietnam's higher education innovation in Society 5.0.
Artificial Intelligence and Education: A Metaphorical Analysis on the Perceptions of Students with Special Abilities
Authors: Alkan Ayşe , Yildiz Ezgi Pelin
Published: November 2024

The main goal of this study is to reveal special talented primary school students' perceptions of artificial intelligence, one of the popular concepts of recent times, through metaphors. In this study, the phenomenological design, which is within the scope of qualitative research, was used. In this study, Türkiye Science and Art Center included special talented primary school students in the education field. The 104 special talented primary school students participating in the research were 9-14 years old. Of these students, 53 were boys and 51 were girls. The participants were in the 3th grade, 4th grade, 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grades of primary education. Purposive sampling method was chosen in the research. When the answers from the students were examined, a total of 36 different categories emerged in line with the relevant metaphors. When these categories are examined in detail, it is seen that the concept of artificial intelligence is represented by different metaphors. According to the findings, it was determined that primary school students simulated the concept of artificial intelligence to different metaphors such as robot, smiling robot, robot vacuum cleaner. As a result, it has been revealed that special talented student generally have positive opinions about the concept of artificial intelligence.
Investigating the Effect of Internet-Based Applications on Secondary School Students' Academic Achievement in Science, Motivation and Awareness of Web 2.0 Tools
Authors: Guder Merve , Akcay Hakan , Inaltekin Tufan
Published: November 2024

In this study, the effect of internet-based applications on the academic achievement, motivation, and awareness of Web 2.0 tools of 6th grade middle school students on "Matter and Heat" was examined. The study group consisted of 73 (experimental: 50, control: 23) 6th grade students from a public school in Istanbul, Turkey. The study was conducted with an experimental design with pretest-posttest control group among quantitative research models. In the experimental group, science lessons were taught with the support of web 2.0 tools such as Nearpod, Canva and Quizizz, while in the control group, no additional application was made and the lessons were taught as specified in the curriculum. The data of the study were collected with the “Motivation Scale in Science Education”, “Matter and Heat Achievement Test” and “Awareness Scale for Web 2.0 Tools”. T-test and one-way factor analysis (ANCOVA) test were used to analyze the data. The results of this study showed that the academic achievement test scores of the experimental group students were higher than the control group and there was a significant difference between the academic achievement test scores of the experimental and control groups. The results showed that the science motivation scores showed a significant difference in favor of the experimental group and the science motivation scores of the experimental group students who were supported with web-based applications were higher than the control group. In addition, according to the results of the one-way analysis of covariance regarding the awareness of web 2.0 tools, there was a significant difference between the experimental group and the control group in favor of the experimental group in the post-test scores. In this study, the importance of planning and implementing science lessons supported by internet-based applications at the secondary school level was revealed.
Investigation of the Factors Affecting Teachers’ Attitudes towards E-Portfolio Using Data Mining Methods
Authors: Gok Bilge , Ayaz Mahmut , Erdem Yasemin , Kasap Yusuf
Published: November 2024

This current study aims to determine the factors affecting teachers' attitudes towards e-portfolios by using data mining methods such as the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) algorithm and Random Forest (RF) algorithm. The study group consists of 449 participants willing to participate on a volunteer basis. In the study, the data were collected using the "Scale of Attitude towards E-Portfolio", the "Reflective Thinking Tendency Scale", and the "Scale of Attitude towards Technology". The survey research design, one of the quantitative research approaches, was used in the study. The collected data were analyzed by using the CART and RF analysis methods, two of the data mining methods. It was concluded with the CART method that the variable with the highest predictor importance in predicting the level of (low-high) attitude towards electronic portfolio is the variable of attitude towards technology, while the variable of how teachers see themselves in using technology is with the lowest predictor importance. It was concluded that with the RF model the variable with the highest predictor importance in predicting the level of attitude (low-high) towards electronic portfolio is the variable of attitude towards technology, followed by the variable of reflective thinking tendency, while the variable with the lowest predictor importance is the variable of the type of the graduated university (state-foundation). The results show that the RF method better determines the predictor variables.
Supported Technology on STEM-Based Science Learning: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mardiantiningsih Selvia , Ramli Murni , Antrakusuma Bayu
Published: November 2024

This research aims to understand (1) the diversity of supported technology in STEM-based science education, (2) the application of supported technology in STEM-based science education, and (3) the advantages and disadvantages of supported technology in STEM-based science education. Supported technology refers to the tools and media used in education. This research is a qualitative systematic review using PSALSAR (Protocol, Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, Analysis, Report) method. The objects of this study are articles from Google Scholar, ERIC, and Scopus published between 2019 and 2023, referencing Yang Baldwin (2020). The selection of articles followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method. A total of 21 academic articles were examined. Validation was conducted by academic supervisors. The research findings revealed that the variety of supported technology is vast but has not been optimally utilized in Indonesia. The most commonly used media are e-modules and Google apps, which require mobile phones. Supported technology can create an engaging and non-monotonous classroom atmosphere, but if not controlled, it can foster individualism among students. Supported technology significantly assists educational activities, but still requires collaboration between schools, governments, and students.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Education of Students with Special Needs
Authors: Alkan Ayse
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) based education represents a significant transformation in the field of education of our age. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has great potential to enrich the learning experience of special needs students, provide support to teachers, and reduce inequalities in education. Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can be used to more effectively understand the learning needs of special needs students and provide customized learning experiences for them. Expert systems, adaptive tutorial systems, dialogue-based systems, learning analytics and educational data mining are widely used AI systems developed to increase productivity in educational environments, facilitate achievement of learning goals, provide instant feedback and enrich student interaction. Assessing the learning inclinations, strengths, and weaknesses of students with special needs enables AI to provide tailored learning content and resources that cater to their individual requirements effectively. In this article, tried to present a road map to teachers and researchers by examining the role of AI-based technologies in the education of special needs students, the AI-based technologies that can be used, and the issues to be considered when choosing these technologies.
Mapping TPACK Competency among Life Sciences Teachers in Rural and Marginalised Secondary Schools: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Shambare Brian , Simuja Clement
Published: November 2024

This descriptive study assessed technological, pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) competency among life sciences teachers in rural and marginalized schools. The study was guided by Koehler and Mishra’s (2006) TPACK framework as its theoretical lens. Data gathered through questionnaires from 235 teachers in the Eastern Cape province, South Africa, was analysed using descriptive statistical analysis. The results unveiled a prevalent low level of TPACK competency among respondents. Moreover, an examination of individual TPACK domains, a significant mastery in non-technology-related areas such as content knowledge (CK), pedagogical knowledge (PK), and pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) surfaces, underscoring the pivotal role of teaching experience in fostering foundational knowledge. Despite competency in these traditional domains, a distinct gap emerges in technology-related TPACK domains, including technological knowledge (TK), technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK), and overall TPACK competency. This research addresses a critical gap in educational literature by spotlighting the often-overlooked population of rural school teachers. It recommends tailored professional development initiatives to enhance teachers’ overall TPACK competency and enable them to effectively utilise technology in their teaching, thereby facilitating enhanced learning experiences.