bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Espaces disputés en Afrique noire
Authors: Traore Jeanne-Marie
Published: September 2024

La question urbaine est, en Haute-Volta, devenue depuis lors Burkina Faso, l’héritage de la période coloniale. Les principaux problèmes se sont concentrés dans la capitale, Ouagadougou, qui croît de 7,5 % par an. Face au manque de lotissements, l’État avait réagi avant 1984 par trois types d’interventions : le lotissement régulier de la loi 77/60/AN du 12.6.1960, très lent à se réaliser, le lotissement pilote de Cissin (à procédures allégées), financé par le PNUD, et les programmes de restructuration de quartiers à habitat « spontané ». Ces programmes, financés par la Banque Mondiale (projet de développement urbain) et par les Pays-Bas (projet Wagadogo-Nossin) s’adressent aux tranches de revenus les plus bas, au moins en théorie. Car en pratique les coûts d’aménagement et la réservation d’une part importante des lots aux « propriétaires coutumiers » écartent les plus démunis. En conclusion, l’auteur regrette l’absence d’une politique précise, ce qu’est venu combler l’Ordonnance d’août 1984.
Espaces disputés en Afrique noire
Authors: Piermay Jean-Luc
Published: September 2024

Camp minier avant 1959, Bakwanga attira alors les Baluba chassés par les troubles des autres provinces du Congo, en raison de ses infrastructures. Devenue Mbuji-Mayi en 1963, la ville comprend maintenant près de 400 000 hts, mais son plan reflète la dualité originelle : d’un côté le camp minier, de l’autre de vastes quartiers populaires progressivement urbanisés par les réfugiés. Ainsi, face à la MIBA (héritière de la Forminière) et aux Bakwanga , hôtes mystifiés, les nouveaux citadins, assistés par une administration précaire mais néanmoins efficace, ont aménagé un espace anarchique et difficile où domine l’opposition est-ouest. Selon la localisation de l’enjeu foncier et les moyens financiers nécessaires, diverses alliances sont concevables entre les principaux acteurs dominés par l’administration (distincte ici de l’État) et les trafiquants selon la logique de la corruption. C’est, en conclusion, le sens de cette logique, remettant en question l’impression d’anarchie, que recherche l’auteur.
Espaces disputés en Afrique noire
Authors: Ganne Bernard
Published: September 2024

La dynamique foncière des villes moyennes ne constitue aucunement un stade intermédiaire dans les affrontements qui opposent anciennes matrices foncières de référence et nouveaux systèmes juridiques d’appropriation : elle suit des développements propres, indissociables du jeu socio-politique qui constitue localement le foncier comme enjeu ou le prend comme prétexte. Au travers de l’analyse des conflits d’une ville moyenne sahélienne, Ouahigouya, au nord du Burkina-Faso, on observe ainsi comment, paradoxalement, le recours aux anciennes règles foncières peut en fait favoriser le développement de la spéculation, l’invocation du système juridique « moderne » parvenant mal pour sa part à dissimuler la résurgence d’anciens conflits politiques. Plus encore que sur les affrontements entre « anciennes » et « nouvelles » structures, c’est sur l’état actuel des forces sociales et politiques en présence que le foncier nous instruit provoquant des systèmes de réarticulation inédits entre ces diverses matrices de référence.
L’ingénieur pédagogique dans le supérieur
Authors: Charnet Chantal
Published: September 2024

Ce chapitre propose de montrer comment l’ingénierie pédagogique s’est inspirée de différents modèles d’apprentissage. Dans une présentation non exhaustive, nous avons retenu ceux qui ont particulièrement contribué à son développement, tels que l’Instructionnal design, les modèles ADDIE et MISA, le constructivisme, la taxonomie de Bloom et de ses successeurs, pour conclure par un dispositif comme les MOOC. Nous verrons en quoi ces positionnements théoriques, méthodologiques et pédagogiques ont forgé le travail de conception et ainsi les activités professionnelles de l’ingénieur pédagogique.
L’ingénieur pédagogique dans le supérieur
Authors: Guichard Sophie
Published: September 2024

Depuis plus de 20 ans, les métiers et les missions des personnels ITRF dédiés à l’accompagnement pédagogique ont beaucoup évolué. De l’emploi « Jeune Docteur agent de développement des nouvelles technologies » vers le métier « d’ingénieur d’études ingénieur en technologie de la formation » puis « d’ingénieur pour l’enseignement numérique », nous suivrons l’évolution des missions liées à ces emplois et du nombre d’emplois de ce type au sein de l’ESR.
L’ingénieur pédagogique dans le supérieur
Authors: Sobanski Thierry
Published: September 2024

L’ingénieur pédagogique et multimédia est un acteur essentiel de la stratégie pédagogique de l’établissement. Son champ de compétences s’est élargi avec l’arrivée concomitante des concepts d’espaces d’apprentissage innovants et du numérique comme vecteur de transformation. Il doit s’inscrire dans une démarche codesign avec l’ensemble des acteurs de la communauté pédagogique à tous les niveaux (institutionnel, national et international) pour répondre aux enjeux de l’apprentissage.
Développement durable et filières tropicales
Authors: Legile Anne , Noël Naomi , Mouton Florence , Baillet Didier
Published: September 2024

Résumé Au cours des trente dernières années, à la demande des États, l’AFD a accompagné la transformation des filières agro-industrielles : depuis une gouvernance où les États étaient omniprésents vers une gouvernance paritaire, associant les chefs d’exploitations familiales au travers de leurs organisations professionnelles. Dans la plupart des filières d’exportation, les décisions de gestion sont désormais fondées d’abord sur les dynamiques de marché et moins sur des décisions politiques. Ceci est allé de pair avec un élargissement des fonctions des organisations paysannes et la bancarisation des exploitations agricoles et de leurs groupements, dès lors que les financements pour l’équipement et les plantations n’étaient plus assurés par les entreprises de l’aval de la production. Dans ce contexte, l’État étant moins présent, le partage de la valeur ajoutée et des risques, la gestion de la variabilité des prix ou de la qualité ont rendu nécessaire des accords interprofessionnels négociés entre entreprises et agriculteurs. Une évolution parallèle a été soutenue pour l’agriculture irriguée, dans laquelle les responsabilités des agriculteurs dans la maintenance et la gestion des réseaux d’irrigation ont été affirmées. En outre, la plupart des filières porteuses représentent à la fois des opportunités économiques et des menaces sur le capital naturel et l’organisation sociale d’un territoire rural qu’elles transforment. Il est donc désormais nécessaire d’associer les responsables des communautés concernées aux décisions relatives à l’allocation et au partage des usages du foncier et de l’eau. Cela signifie de croiser une approche « filière », qui reste d’une grande pertinence en termes d’efficacité et de régulation, et une approche « territoire », qui permet d’élargir la prise en compte des enjeux environnementaux et sociaux. L’enrichissement de l’approche filière doit se poursuivre dans deux directions. Tout d’abord, pour des filières courtes ou locales traitant des produits, principalement alimentaires, il s’agit d’accompagner des petites et moyennes entreprises, éventuellement des coopératives, de commercialisation et de transformation. En outre, pour toutes les filières, il s’agit d’améliorer la qualité, notamment écologique, et la traçabilité, pour assurer une meilleure rémunération sur les marchés.
A cidade esquecida: patrimônio industrial e o ocultamento da memória do trabalho
Authors: Coelho Jossana Peil , Ferreira Michelon Francisca
Published: September 2024

As indústrias na década de 1950 nas cidades de Caxias do Sul, Pelotas e Porto Alegre, no Rio Grande do Sul, foram responsáveis por representativo desenvolvimento e progresso destes locais. Os espaços fabris não só se destacavam na paisagem urbana como eram importantes para a economia da região, em especial porque empregavam um grande número de trabalhadores. Atualmente, muitas dessas fábricas fecharam ou se mudaram, deixando, de distintos modos, os complexos fabris que ocupavam. Alguns destes foram considerados patrimônios culturais da sua cidade. No entanto, mesmo reconhecidos desse modo, os valores, que na época da fábrica operante eram vigentes, diluíram-se com o seu fechamento. E isso se aplica à memória do trabalho, dos quais tais espaços eram testemunhas. Entende-se que tal diluição pode vir de um ocultamento silencioso sobre as muitas cidades que qualquer cidade detém. Nesse caso, sobre a cidade operária, que ostentava apenas a força do trabalho e as tecnologias de produção fabril.
A pilot field study on Dengue vectors with locally manufactured inexpensive gravid female traps
Authors: Wanasinghe Y. D. , Ganesalingam H. , Bienvenu M. P. , Eswaramohan T. , Jayadas T. T. P. , Malavige G. N. , Jeewandara C. , Selvarajah R. , Thileepan A. , Ramasamy R. , Surendran S. N.
Published: September 2024

High prevalence of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus vectors and dengue incidence as well as the presence of the four dengue virus serotypes underscore the need for effective and simple tools to monitor dengue vectors in Sri Lanka. Field studies were therefore undertaken with inexpensive gravid female trap (GFT) fabricated from local materials in Jaffna city in northern Sri Lanka. The study was initiated in April 2022, and GFT-based mosquito collection was conducted from June 2022 to April 2023. Five blocks of 30 to 40 houses, were selected in areas of high dengue prevalence in Jaffna city. Thirty houses were selected within each block and provided with five traps to be placed indoor and outdoor in each house. Conventional larval indices were determined at the beginning, middle and end of the study. Nine rounds of GFT collections were performed to identify and quantify trapped mosquitoes, their parity, and infection with virus serotypes. A total of 2177 and 3069 Aedes were collected respectively in indoor and outdoor GFTs, during nine rounds of collections and identified at the species level where possible. A total of 679 and 433 Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus were collected in indoor traps and 377 and 1288 in outdoor traps respectively. Adult and larval indices decreased respectively by 50% and 100% by the end of the study. Parous mosquitoes comprised 93% (of 120) and 94% (of 288) of the collected Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus respectively. In 110 pools of female Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus screened for virus serotype by PCR, five pools of Ae. aegypti and six pools of Ae. albopictus from both indoor and outdoor collections were positive for DENV-2. GFTs fabricated with locally available and inexpensive materials described here can be effective for monitoring the prevalence of Aedes vector species, parity and dengue virus infection status. The larval indices suggest that the use of GFTs can contribute to reducing dengue transmission.
Role of growth arrest-specific protein 6 in diagnosis and prognosis of sepsis in infants and children
Authors: El Husseiny Ibrahim Ahmed , Al-Wakil Angi A.M. , Abo Alfoto Ahmed R.G.
Published: September 2024

Background

Sepsis is a main cause of mortality in the pediatrics and neonates. Early goal-directed therapy is the cornerstone in sepsis management that is focuses on keeping organ perfusion and function normally. Diagnosis of pediatric sepsis in the emergency department is considered a significant challenge for clinicians for many reasons. These include a lack of fast and accurate diagnostic tools, an absence of simple and specific diagnostic criteria, and unclear symptoms during the early phase of illness. The best predictive tool in the future will likely be a combination of multiple biomarkers and physiomarkers. Growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6) is an anti-apoptotic vitamin-K-dependent protein. It is secreted by endothelial cells and is important for the activation of endothelium during inflammation. Several studies hypothesize the use of Gas6 as a biomarker in the pathophysiology of sepsis, an early predictor of mortality, and were able to identify some life-threatening sepsis complications.

Aim

Evaluation of the diagnostic and prognostic values of plasma Gas6 in patients with sepsis, septic shock, and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in infants and children.

Patients and methods

Case-control study was carried out from April 2019 to April 2020. 90 children were included and divided into two equal groups (cases and controls). The patients aged from 1 month to 18 years were diagnosed with sepsis, septic shock, or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome in the pediatric intensive care unit of Mansoura University Children’s Hospital. The level of plasma Gas6 was measured in both cases and controls and evaluated as regards its relation to diagnosis and outcome of the cases.

Results

The two groups were age and sex matched. The outcome of the cases group was: 16 cases are discharged, and 29 died. A significant elevation of plasma Gas6 level in the cases more than the controls (sensitivity= 84.4% and specificity= 66.7%). However, no statistically significant difference as regard the relation between plasma Gas6 level and the outcome of the cases (sensitivity= 55.2% and specificity= 62.7%).

Conclusion

Gas6 show statistically significant elevation in cases of sepsis, septic shock and multiorgan failure. Gas6 plasma level has high accuracy in prediction of sepsis and can be considered as a good negative marker of sepsis but not a reliable prognostic marker in septic patients.
Assessment of the quantitative serum severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 immunoglobulin M antibodies in febrile children and its relation to coagulation profile
Authors: Ahmed Mahytab S. , Abd El-Razek Ahmed M. , Fouda Mohammed M. , Hamza Mohamed B. , Elkaffas Asmaa A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is produced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2).

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the quantitative serum SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in febrile children with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms and its relation to the coagulation profile.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional work included 90 febrile children aged 1.5–16 years. Children were categorized into three equal groups: group I: respiratory symptoms. Group II: gastrointestinal symptoms. Group III: no other associated symptoms.

Results

There was a significant negative correlation between the level of CoV-2 IgM and absolute platelets and lymphocyte count. There was a significant positive correlation present between CoV-2 IgM and dimer, and C-reactive protein and cyanosis. There was a significant negative correlation between negative SARS-CoV-2 IgM instances and C-reactive protein and D-dimer in group II patients and between positive SARS-CoV-2 IgM cases and total leukocyte count in group III. While a significant positive correlation existed among negative SARS-CoV-2 IgM instances and D-dimer in group III and positive SARS-CoV-2 IgM instances and absolute lymphocyte count in group II, D-dimer in group III. SARS-CoV-2 IgM can significantly predict COVID instances at a cutoff of 2.25 with 85.6% sensitivity and 96.2% specificity. The D-dimer level was significantly higher in group I when compared with groups II and III.

Conclusions

Children have a measurable serological response, and the study of its quantity may have prognostic importance. Moreover, SARS-CoV-2 IgM antibodies have a relationship to coagulation profile. SARS-CoV-2 IgM is a diagnostic factor for COVID cases.
A novel clinical approach to abnormal head movements in children: an expert review
Authors: Khalifa Maher A. , Abou Heikal Mai M. , Ragab Yasser
Published: September 2024

Abnormal head movements (AHM) in children can be caused by a variety of conditions. These could be serious neurological problems that need immediate attention or benign conditions that need only reassurance. (1) Reaching a correct diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Owing to the broad range of their types and causes, a practical diagnostic approach is needed to facilitate the management of AHMs by clinicians. In this article, we propose a Novel Clinical Approach to AHMs in Children based on our literature review and clinical experience. We introduce a collective classification and a practical algorithm that differentiates them according to semiology, frequency, and associated symptoms, and guides towards the causative factors and the needed investigations for confirmation.
Effectiveness of Specialized Resisted Strengthening Activities to Improve Handwriting Legibility in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Kumar M. Arun , Nagalakshmi P.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Specialized resisted strengthening activities to improve handwriting legibility are the process of training prewriting skills. Children can do activities of hand function. When a child develops finger strength, their hand strength also improves. These easy hand exercises can help a child develop fine motor skills and strengthen their hands.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to identify the level of handwriting legibility in the control group and experimental group using the Evaluation Tool of Children’s Handwriting (ETCH) Scale and to compare the effect of specialized resisted strengthening activities in the experimental group than with the control group.

Study Design:

This was a quasi-experimental study design.

Methods:

A total of 30 autism children were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The samples were split into two groups, each with 15 samples: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group received 3 months of 12 sessions, each session of 45 min of specialized resisted strengthening activities individually whereas the control group did not receive specialized resisted strengthening activities but occupational therapy that excludes these specialized resisted strengthening activities. The pretest and posttest were assessed by the ETCH scale in both groups; the outcome of the posttest was investigated.

Results:

The results showed that the comparison of pretest and posttest mean scores of handwriting legibility in the experimental group was significantly effective after implementing resisted strengthening activities (P = 0.000 [significant]; 95% confidence interval CI: 71.13, 76.91).

Conclusion:

This study proves that specialized resisted strengthening activities can be used as an effective intervention to improve handwriting legibility in autism spectrum disorder.
Recent Trends in Occupational Therapy Specific to Motor Intervention for Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury: A Scoping Review
Authors: Almeida Charmaine Melrose , Vajaratkar Vivek Prabhakar
Published: September 2024

Background:

According to the National Crime Records Bureau (2014), traumatic brain injury (TBI) is increasingly being recognized as a public health problem of immense proportions with the substantial burden of disability and death occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Many people with TBI experience various degrees of motor function impairment which can have a significant impact on participation in all the areas of occupation. There is a dearth of evidence-based occupational therapy (OT)-specific motor intervention. Moreover, it is necessary to be aware of the current literature available on OT interventions to support recovery of patients with TBI.

Objective:

To describe the recent trends in OT-specific motor interventions for adults with TBI.

Study Design:

A scoping review was employed for this study.

Methods:

Arksey and O’Malley’s six-stage framework for scoping reviews guided our study. A search was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature–CINAHL for papers published between 2016 and 2021. The search strategy was developed based on the concepts and keywords used in the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes, and Study design framework. Numerical and thematic analyses were employed.

Results:

Of the 35 articles identified in the review process, 13 papers were included in the scoping review. On performing analyses, 6 major themes were identified which were as follows: (1) The centrality of occupation (top-down approach), (2) Should bottom-up approach be used? When? (3) Contemporary approaches to intervention, (4) Traditional approaches to intervention, (5) Outcome measures for motor intervention, and (6) Futuristic intervention concepts and opportunities.

Conclusion:

Several recent trends in OT-specific to motor intervention have emerged in the yesteryears which may be considered for integration into practice with TBI survivors. Whilst there have been some advancements in TBI literature including “occupation” in the limelight, multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary collaboration and several contemporary approaches with unique and new concepts, there are still undeniable challenges to the practicing occupational therapists with regard to understanding its implementation, limited evidence, and equivocacy of its effectiveness.
The Effect of Exercise Therapy Along with Relaxation Technique on Patients with Hematologic Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy-Occupational Therapy Approach
Authors: Biswas (Sen) Rupali , Bhattacharya Maitreyee , Biswas Abhishek
Published: September 2024

Background:

Cancer is the second leading cause of premature death in India. In India, it is estimated that there are approximately 2–2.5 million cases of cancer. Cancer and its treatment are often associated with adverse physical side effects, including muscular atrophy, decreased muscle strength, and reduced aerobic capacity. These side effects may contribute to the development of cancer-related fatigue (CRF). The authors across the world have agreed that there is a paucity of studies in this field to encapsulate the fatigue caused to cancer patients while undergoing chemotherapy. About 70% of cancer patients report fatigue complaints during chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Fatigue is usually caused by a combination of factors. Recent research suggests, however, that weariness may be induced by changes in the muscle energy systems produced by cancer and its treatment. Through evidential studies, occupational therapy by an exercise program and relaxation techniques has helped to avoid this fatigue and lessen the severity while undergoing chemotherapy.

Objective:

To study the effect of exercise programs and relaxation techniques on fatigue, physical performance, and quality of life (QOL) in patients with hematologic cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

Study Design:

The study design was an experimental study.

Methods:

The total number of patients with a diagnosis of hematology cancer selected was 240; the patients in the control group were 120 and the patients in the experimental group were 120. The patients were selected from the day-care and indoor patient division of Nil Ratan Sarkar Medical College and hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India; pre- and post-intervention data were taken using the Fatigue Severity Scale, Physical Performance Test, and World Health Organization QOL-BREF. The experimental group received 30 min for relaxation and 30 min for exercises and the experimental group was treated thrice a week for 12 weeks periodically over 3 years. The control group was under conventional therapy (chemotherapy as per their prescription) along with home-based OT program. They have also reassessed after 12 weeks.

Results:

Independent t-test indicated statistically significant differences between groups in fatigue, physical performance, and QOL (P < 0.05). At last, the Chi-square (χ2) test showed that there was no significant association between the status of health at last contact and the age of the patient (P = 0.23).

Conclusion:

Exercise therapy and relaxation techniques decrease fatigue and improve physical performance and QOL in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Accidental Ingestion of Plaster of Paris Causing Thermal Injury of the Esophagus and Stomach in a Toddler
Authors: Rai Anuradha , Mittal Medha , Mittal Santosh
Published: September 2024

Background:

Plaster of Paris (POP) or calcium sulfate hemihydrate is commonly used in regular construction activities and medical appliances. Due to its easy availability, young children can be at risk of exposure. Mixing of POP with water results in exothermic reaction and production of heat. We report the acute endoscopic findings of thermal burn of the gastrointestinal mucosa, following accidental ingestion.

Clinical Description:

A 21-month-old boy presented with acute hematemesis in our emergency department with his mother giving a history of having noticed his fist full of POP. The child was otherwise stable, afebrile with swollen cheeks, lips, and oral mucosa with some crusting.

Management and Outcome:

The child was provided supportive care, and an early endoscopy was carried out, which revealed POP causing thermal injury of the mucosa of Zargar 2A grade.

Conclusion:

Our purpose of reporting this case is to highlight the less known deleterious effects of POP on the gastrointestinal mucosa and the importance of early endoscopic diagnosis, management along the lines of corrosive poisoning. Warning labels over the packets of POP and making them inaccessible to children are absolutely essential.
Compound Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia in a Child: Successfully Treated by Liver Transplant from Heterozygous Living Donor
Authors: Chaubal Gaurav , Pakkala Amith Kumar , Nanavati Aditya J. , Hatimi Hunaid , Sinha Rajeev , Verma Lalit , Chaksota Harshit
Published: September 2024

Background:

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), mostly inherited as an autosomal dominant disease, is characterized by decreased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) clearance from the plasma, due to mutation in the LDL receptor (LDL-R). Untreated or treatment resistant cases can have accelerated atherosclerosis leading to cardiovascular deaths. There are very few reports of liver transplant in children with refractory FH.

Clinical Description:

A 9-year-old girl was having tendinous xanthomas for last 18 months, which remained undiagnosed until she developed early onset acute coronary syndrome with triple-vessel disease. Treatment with statins was initiated for hypercholesterolemia which was detected only postcoronary artery bypass graft. The child was refractory to medical management.

Management and Outcome:

Genetic analysis revealed a compound heterozygous variant of FH (cHeFH) with a pathogenic mutation in LDL-R, with parents being heterozygotes. She underwent living donor liver transplantation (LT) from her heterozygote father. Posttransplantation, the lipid profiles improved markedly with gradual reduction in size of the xanthomas.

Conclusion:

FH, if undiagnosed and untreated, can cause serious complications as early as in the first decade. Simple cutaneous markers like tendon xanthomas should raise a suspicion of this condition and investigations should be carried out without further delay. LT, even from a heterozygous donor, can be rewarding in children with FH refractory to medical management.
Evaluation and Comparison of the Dose Received by the Mandible, Maxilla, and Teeth in Two Methods of Three-dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy and Helical Tomotherapy
Authors: Pourparvar Zahra , Shahbazi-Gahrouei Daryoush , Najafizade Nadia , Saeb Mohsen , Khaniabadi Bita Moradi , Khaniabadi Pegah Moradi
Published: September 2024

Background:

Using three-dimensional conformal radiation treatment (3D-CRT) and helical tomotherapy (HT), this study examines and contrasts the dosage received by the mandible, maxilla, and teeth.

Methods:

Sixteen patients with head-and-neck cancer (H and NC) were the subject of treatment planning at the Seyyed Al-Shohada Hospital in Isfahan, Iran. This study examined target coverage quality, exposure of healthy tissue, and radiation delivery effectiveness.

Results:

In terms of a number of measures, including D2%, D50%, Dmean, V95%, conformity index (CI), and homogeneity index (HI) for the planning target volume (PTV) and D2%, D98%, Dmean, V95%, CI, and HI for the nodal PTV, HT showed considerable gains over 3D-CRT. The brainstem, D1cc, and D10cc received considerably lower maximum dosages in HT. Measurements of the right and left cochleas (Dmean, V55, and Dmax) revealed decreases in HT, with Dmean revealing the most significant variations. The Dmean and Dmax values for HT significantly decreased in constrictors as well. In terms of several HT-related indicators, the larynx, optic chiasm, optic nerves, oral cavity, mandible, thyroid, and parotid glands all showed considerable decreases.

Conclusion:

The findings of the comparison of the two treatment approaches revealed that the HT method was more than 50% more effective than the 3D-CRT method in sustaining organs at risk (OARs) and the target volume dose. In general, dosimetric coverage, homogeneity, conformity indices, and the absence of cold and hot patches showed that HT produced targets with greater accuracy than 3D-CRT. In addition, HT outperformed 3D-CRT in protecting important structures (OARs). HT as a result has the potential to be a more effective method of treatment for those with H and NC and involvement of regional lymph nodes.
Dual Heterotropic Tissue Associated with a Type IV A Choledochal Cyst: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Jacob Sherrin , Bharti Sushma , Zaheer Sufian , Jose Annmy
Published: September 2024

A choledochal cyst (CC) is one of the rare congenital diseases of the biliary tract and is more common in females. The association of ectopic pancreatic and splenic tissue with CC is an extremely rare condition. An 11-year-old girl child presented with a vague abdominal lump and intermittent dull abdominal pain for 5 months with early satiety and weight loss in the current case scenario. Her laboratory findings were normal. A type IV CC was discovered on ultrasonography, and the distal common bile duct displayed significant cystic dilatation on magnetic resonant cholangiopancreatography. After the CC was surgically removed, it was sent for histopathological examination. Sections revealed dual heterotropic elements, which included pancreatic and splenic tissues in a CC. It was very uncommon for both to exist independently in the CC and in this instance, both were observed together. This will be the first documented case, in which the CC contained dual ectopic tissue from the spleen and pancreas. Ectopic splenic tissue in the CC has never been documented in the literature. It is crucial to be aware of this entity when splenic or pancreatic tissue experiences changes due to inflammation, even though its clinical significance is uncertain. In the ectopic rests, bleeding, blockage, and malignant transformation are the possible outcomes.
Awareness and Practices about Using Food Labeling among Adolescents in the City of Vijayapura, Karnataka
Authors: Patil Sakshi S. , Doddihal Chandrika R. , Patil Shailaja S.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Obesity among Indian adolescents is on the rise. Obesity among Indian adolescents is on the rise and unhealthy snacking habits, and consumption of processed and packaged foods are a major cause of it. Food labels on packets provide information on its contents; however, its awareness and use are to be evaluated.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study among 206 adolescents of a 2 tier city in South India were administered questionnaire to assess their awareness and practice using food label information.

Results:

All the adolescents purchased packaged foods at least once during their school time, with chips/biscuits being the most commonly bought foods. About 86% of them were aware of food labels and only 57% knew about nutritional information. Endorsement by celebrity or peer approval made the nutritional claims more trustworthy. About half always read labels before buying, and “date of manufacture” or “date of expiry” was the most commonly read information.

Conclusion:

The awareness regarding food package labels is high among adolescents; however, their actual usage is low. There is a need to educate adolescents regarding food label use and study alternative methods to display label information effectively.
Design and Development of Mobile Based Application for Competency Oriented Dental Education
Authors: Manoharan P. S.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Teaching, Learning and Asssessment in Competency Based Dental Education need to be digitally captured in an user friendly manner which can be accessed by students and mentor which would be useful for continuous monitoring, periodic assessment and maintenance of a digital record.

Methods:

A novel customised mobile based application MSCORE© developed for competency oriented dental training among undergraduate interns of an institute. Initial perception on the use of the application was recorded using a questionnaire from the entire batch of interns. Factor Analysis was done to check the validity and reliability of the questionnaire.

Results:

From the 30-item questionnaire, factor analysis extracted four aforementioned factors and reliability was found for 22 questions. Sixty-three percent of students felt that the application is easy to learn. Overall high scores were recorded for 71% of the students. Eighty-five percent of the students scored high on the suitability of the task. Seventy three scored the high on the satisfaction scale. However, advantages over existing written methods scored high only among 49% of the students.

Conclusions:

Mobile application-based mentoring, monitoring and assessment can be a better alternative to conventional models as it was found to demonstrate good perception by the digital natives of the present generation.
Histomorphological Study of Nephrectomy Specimens with Assessment of Prognostic Parameters in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Padmanaban Krishnan Govindaraman , Balasubramanian Vijay Anand
Published: September 2024

Background:

Kidney is a major organ that is affected by vast spectrum of non-neoplastic (NN) and neoplastic lesions. Simple nephrectomy is done for nonfunctioning kidneys in inflammatory/ benign disorders, radical / partial nephrectomy is done for neoplasms.

Aims:

This study aims to study the different histomorphological features observed in nephrectomy specimens and to assess the significance of prognostic parameters in the evaluation of renal cancers.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective study that includes 71 nephrectomy specimens received in our department.

Results:

Among the 71 nephrectomy specimens 57.7% were NN lesions. Chronic pyelonephritis and Clear cell type of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) were the commonest NN and neoplastic lesions respectively. Majority of RCCs were histologically grade 2 (50%). A significant correlation was found between tumor size and grade, tumor size and renal sinus invasion (RSI) and RSI was frequently seen in higher grade RCCs. However, a larger sample size is needed to generalize these results.

Conclusion:

With early interventions of NN lesions and detecting RCC in early stages the need for surgical management and radical procedures can be brought down to spare this vital organ.
Unmasking the Face of a Rare Disease – Progressive Nodular Histiocytosis
Authors: Jain Jinisha Anand , Doshi Bhavana , Sharada V.G.
Published: September 2024

Non-Langerhans cell histiocytoses (NLCHs) are a complex group of disorders which can be difficult to diagnose due to their confounding clinical and microscopic features. Progressive nodular histiocytosis (PNH) is a rare subtype of NLCH characterized by benign, xanthogranulomatous lesions on the skin and mucous membranes. Clinical features of PNH involve the gradual emergence of multiple yellow-brown papules and nodules, with histological examination demonstrating the presence of foamy tissue macrophages, spindle-shaped cells within a fibrocollagenous matrix, and Touton cells. We present a rare case of a 55-year-old female patient with progressively increasing facial nodules, where clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings clinched the diagnosis of PNH.
US Migration Crisis and Its Consequences for the 2024 Presidential Elections
Authors: Voitolovskaya A. R.
Published: September 2024

The evolution of US migration policy has run several cycles: at first, the fate of immigrants was the responsibility of the employer (companies, who brought them to the USA), then, with an increase in their influx and their gradual resettlement, the lives of newcomers began to be determined at the state level. Only at the end of the 19th century migration regulation began to acquire the features of the federal government’s established policy with a vector towards liberalization throughout the next century. Starting from the 2010s there is a reverse trend – back to restrictionism and ‘descend’ of the regulation to the level of state authorities, especially for illegal immigrants. Such shift causes a clash between states and federal government, and at the same time emphasises the inability of this government to carry out objectively aspired reform.

Today immigration policy in the United States can be divided into two major areas: legal immigration regulation and government attempts to solve the problem of illegal immigration. This division, albeit conditionally, helps to understand why for 30 years now no Congress has been able to work out a comprehensive immigration reform or at least agree on key areas for the implementation of its’ certain aspects. A set of acute problems of socio-economic, moral and ethical nature forms an inseparable set of challenges. It equally includes both the areas necessary for the country’s successful economic development: highly qualified personnel attraction, aging of the nation combating, increase of the birth rate, and the challenges associated with the burden on society and the increase in crime: the influx of refugees, illegal, seasonal and permanent immigrants and their families.

Due to domestic political peculiarities in the modern United States, party coalitions cannot agree on even one of these areas, let alone develop a profound working system that meets constantly changing needs of the economy, foreign policy challenges, and is in consensus with states’ authorities, who would finally assimilate newcomers.

Will the current crisis on the southwestern border of the United States affect J. Biden’s reelection in November 2024? What strategy has D. Trump chosen to bypass his rival? – you will find from this article.
"City upon a Hill" in the Face of Significant Challenges
Authors: Gaman-Golutvina O. V.
Published: September 2024

The editor-in-chief proposes a context for examining the crisis processes in American society explored in the articles. The author suggests that this crisis should be viewed in the context of the American history cycles. Many of the current conflicts in the USA have a similar internal source, which is a sharp intra-elite conflict involving a significant part of society. This conflict is unusual in its depth, given that for many decades the «trademark» of the American political class has been its consensus character. One important element of this consensus can be seen as an unquestioned focus on global American leadership and a shared commitment among members of the community to the force imperatives in foreign policy – either the classic “hard” or “flexible” power. Among the sources of American foreign policy continuity are a number of factors. First, it is the stability of institutional mechanisms of decision-making, which, in turn, is based on a stable system of representation of dominant interests. Second, the stability of formal and informal institutions that ensure a high degree of elite cohesion; and the specificity of American political culture, which is based on a set of political and philosophical views of messianic nature. The consensual nature of the political elite was the system-forming basis of liberal democracy, so the breakdown of this consensus may entail – and partially has already entailed – a crisis of the US political system.
Body composition between obstructive and non-obstructive bladder cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: APHINIVES APIWIT , Nawapun Supajit , Aphinives Chalida
Published: September 2024

Background: Body composition measurement during cancer follow-up would increase its role in improving nutritional status. Using a CT scan for nutritional evaluation with scheduled cancer screening or follow-up would add other useful information to help the physician gain a better understanding of the patient’s nutritional status, especially in adipose tissue.
Objective: To evaluate the correlation of measured adipose tissue and skeletal muscle between obstructive and non-obstructive uropathy in bladder cancer on a CT scan.
Background: Body composition measurement during cancer follow-up would increase its role in improving the nutritional status. Using a CT scan for nutritional evaluation with scheduled cancer screening or follow-up would add other useful information to help the physician gain a better understanding of the patient’s nutritional status, especially in adipose tissue.
Objective: To compare the measured adipose tissue and the skeletal muscle between obstructive and non-obstructive uropathy in bladder cancer on a CT scan.
Materials and Methods: A total of 69 patients, who underwent a CT scan of the abdomen including the pelvis before surgery and/or chemotherapy between January 2013 and December 2022, were enrolled.  Analyses of the volume of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and skeletal muscle tissue (SMT) calculated based on CT images were performed.
Results: There was significantly lower VAT (p = 0.012) in the obstructive group than in the non-obstructive group.  SAT, SMT, age, weight, height, BMI, and tumor size were not significantly different between both groups.
Conclusion: In patients with bladder cancer, those with obstructive uropathy showed lower VAT than non-obstructive uropathy.
Economic Viability of Mindful Entrepreneurship: An Exploratory Study on Conglomerates; Ford, Google, Ebay: Their Business Model and Its Impact on Profitability
Authors: Malhotra Anya
Published: September 2024

Mindful Entrepreneurship is an important part of business strategy for all companies whether big or small if they need to increase profitability and sales. Most business models in today's world do add the concept of mindfulness in their long term analysis. In companies Ford, Google, eBay the practice of this concept has yielded immense results. Primary experiments have indicated phenomenal results when this was applied to marginalized in the society.
Manipulating Auto-Insurance Systems to Minimize Car Accident Rates Among U.S. Teens
Authors: S. Kukatla Neha , Chawkat Ms. Leila
Published: September 2024

This paper explores various auto insurance systems and their impact on teenage driving behaviors and crash rates. The manipulation of auto insurance systems can be effective in minimizing car accident rates among teenage drivers in the United States. Auto insurance systems encompass the regulations governing insurance coverage for motor vehicles, influencing driving behaviors through incentives, penalties, and risk perceptions. The primary auto insurance systems in the U.S. are fault-based, no-fault, add-on, and choice-based systems, each with distinct implications for driving behaviors and road safety. The leading cause of death for teenagers in the U.S. is car accidents, underscoring the urgency of implementing effective strategies to mitigate crash risk among this demographic. The literature review details the factors influencing crash risk among teenagers by highlighting behavioral science theories, and the factors contributing to elevated crash risk among teenage drivers. A meta-analysis was conducted, revealing correlations between insurance system types, driving behaviors, and crash rates among teenagers. Findings suggest that fault-based auto insurance systems, due to their tort liability principles, are the most effective auto insurance systems in promoting safe driving habits among teenage drivers. The fault-based system increases accountability, mitigates moral hazard, and incentivizes cautious driving practices, thereby reducing crash rates. This research provides compelling evidence supporting the adoption of fault-based insurance systems as a critical measure to minimize car accidents among teenage drivers in the United States.
Loss Aversion, Overconfidence of Investors and their Impact on Market Performance: Evidence from the London Stock Exchange (FTSE100)
Authors: Mai Uyen Vu Thuy
Published: September 2024

The Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) has traditionally explained the relationship between risk and expected return, assuming efficient markets and rational investors. However, empirical evidence has increasingly challenged these assumptions, leading to the emergence of behavioural finance, which examines how psychological factors impact investor behaviour and market outcomes. This study explores the effects of two key behavioural biases—loss aversion and overconfidence—on the performance of FTSE100-listed companies. Using panel data models on a sample of six companies from industrial and service sectors between January 2004 and December 2022, our research finds that investor sentiment significantly influences market performance. Specifically, overconfidence correlates positively with the stock performance of industrial firms but does not affect service sector firms. Loss aversion, however, does not show a significant impact on performance in the UK market. These findings suggest that overconfidence may have a more pronounced effect on market performance compared to loss aversion. This has implications for portfolio managers and financial regulators, as understanding these psychological biases can enhance market predictions and stability. By incorporating investor sentiment into market analysis, stakeholders can better anticipate market fluctuations and mitigate potential risk.
A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW OF SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT POLICY IMPLEMENTATION IN SOUTHEAST ASIA
Authors:   University of Malaya, ABDUL AZIZ MOHD FAZLI , RAJA ARIFFIN RAJA NORIZA ,   University of Malaya
Published: September 2024

Rapid urbanisation, population growth, economic development, and changing consumption patterns have increased waste generation worldwide. In many urban areas of Southeast Asia, waste is the most visible environmental issue, as waste generation has increased rapidly over the last decade. Effective implementation ensures that the outcomes correspond to policy goals. Most Southeast Asian countries have policies and regulations on solid waste management (SWM). However, the policies lack efficient implementation processes and enforcement. (1) political systems influence SWM effectiveness, (2) adequate resources, (3) appropriate technology, and (4) public awareness and participation. Even though many studies have been conducted on SWM implementation, very few focused on the Southeast Asian region. A systematic literature review of research articles retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases was conducted. This study analysed 17 articles from 598 articles initially retrieved to answer the research questions. The analysisfound that multiple stakeholders participated in the SWM system, and a set of challenges revealed the leading causes of policy failure. The analyses served as guidelines to plan for the effective implementation of SWM policies.