bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENINGKATAN KETERAMPILAN NELAYAN DALAM MENGGUNAKAN ALAT KESELAMATAN DI ATAS KAPAL PADA KONDISI DARURAT DI PPI SUNGAI KAKAP
Authors: Ramadhani Ahijrah , La Baharudin La Baharudin , Sudarso Jumadi , Tumion Frangky F , Sadri Sadri , Rasidi Rasidi , Setiawan Ho Putra , Jumaedi Slamet , Risko Risko , Simbolon Nurmala E , Purnamawati Purnamawati
Published: March 2024

Kegiatan nelayan di atas kapal merupakan salah satu kegiatan dengan tingkat resiko tinggi yang mengakibatkan kerugian pada aspek materil hingga keselamatan nelayan di atas kapal. Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan khusus bagi nelayan dalam menggunakan alat keselamatan di atas kapal pada kondisi darurat. Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM) ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pengetahuan kepada masyarakat nelayan yang ada di PPI Sungai Kakap tentang keterampilan menggunakan alat keselamatan di atas kapal. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan dengan tahapan sosialisasi kepada khalayak sasaran yang mengacu pada pekerja/awak kapal dan penyampaian materi terkait penyebab terjadinya kecelakaan kapal dan upaya pencegahan yang dilakukan di atas kapal. Berdasarkan hasil pre test yang dilakukan diperoleh bahwa hanya 42 % dari keseluruhan peserta yang benar – benar paham mengenai keselamatan kerja di atas kapal berdasarkan prosedur. Setelah kegiatan ini dilakukan, secara keseluruhan menunjukkan adanya peningkatan kesadaran peserta akan pentingnya keterampilan nelayan dalam menggunakan alat keselamatan di atas kapal dan cara menggunakan bahan alternatif sebagai alat keselamatan pada keadaan darurat. Selain itu, para nelayan mampu memahami penyebab terjadinya kecelakaan kapal serta memahami upacaya terhadap pencegahan dari kecelakaan tersebut.
Relationship between the Use of Video Terminals and Dry Eye Symptoms during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Assessments Based on a Meta-Analytical Approach
Authors:   Department of Human Pathology, University of Messina, Italy, A Perugino , M Pellegrini ,   Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Italy, G Giannaccare ,   Ophthalmology Unit, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, University of Bologna, Italy
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The objective of this meta-analytical study is to consider the impact of the use of VDTs on the onset and/or worsening of the signs and symptoms of dry eye during the COVID-19 pandemic, but also to offer the best solutions to perform the various tasks in daily life in order to safeguard vision, with the aim of promoting a lifestyle that allows you to work and perform different activities more safely and efficiently. Patients should be encouraged to follow proper planning of visits. Methods: Scientific articles chosen by the following inclusion criteria were analyzed: 1) Type of study (Primary); 2) Population (patients suffering from dry eye); 3) Study period (all studies carried out in the period between January 2020 and January 2022); 4) Result variables (correlation between increased use of VDTs during the pandemic and worsening of the symptoms of dry eye syndrome; correlation between autoimmune mechanism from Covid- 19 and etiology of dry eye); 5) Language (English). Results: The results of the various cross-sectional studies, obtained thanks to the administration of an online and anonymous questionnaire, have found a correlation between excessive use of VDTs and the onset of complications related to dry eye syndrome. The results suggest that in university students there is a higher incidence of problems related to dry eyes following the many hours spent in front of a screen to follow the lessons that were proposed to them remotely during the lockdown following the COVID-19 pandemic. Dry eye is the most commonly diagnosed pathology among eye disorders during the lockdown, as people spent much more time locked in the house, even 20-24h in the first months of lockdown in 2020. Conclusions: In conclusion, the analysis of the data shows a correlation between prolonged use of VDTs (exacerbated during the COVID-19 era) and the onset or worsening of dry eye syndrome.
Conjunctival Epithelial Down growth Following Trabeculectomy Simulating Chronic Postoperative Endophthalmitis
Authors:   Mohammed 5 University of Rabat, Specialty Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., K Bouirig , N El Arrari ,   Mohammed 5 University of Rabat, Specialty Hospital of Rabat, Morocco.
Published: March 2024

Epithelial down growth is a rare and sight-threatening eye condition which can occur after penetrating trauma or any intraocular surgery. Epithelial cells invade the intraocular structures through an incompetent wound and proliferate wildly causing inflammation and multiple damages .We report a case of a 6-year-old patient who presented to the emergency room for a decreased visual acuity, pain over a week in his right eye. Trabeculectomy surgery for congenital glaucoma was performed three years prior and revised with mitomycin C 6 months ago. Slit lamp examination of the affected eye showed conjunctival hyperemia, anterior chamber inflammation, a drawn upwars pupil, in this upper parts we can clearly see a membrane originating from the superior trabeculectomy site with neovascularization on the membrane, a yellow reflect light in pupil area interfering with the fundus examination and highly suggestive of chronic endophthalmitis. Vitreous tap was performed which allowed us to eliminate an infectious origin and revealed the presence of squamous epithelial cells that are not found inside the eye. The diagnose of epithelial down growth resulting to inflammation and vitreous hemorrhage following trabeculectomy was made. Local and general corticotherapy was started. Epithelial down growth treatment is variable, studies showed that patients treated surgically underwent fewer enucleations than those treated medically or not treated.
Prospective Study Evaluating the Interest of SF6 Gas Injection in the Management of Acute Corneal Hydropsy
Authors:   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, Bouslamti Ahmed , I Hasnaoui ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, A Boujaada ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, C Bardi ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, L Rostoum ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, A Elhassan ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco, A Berraho ,   Ophthalmology B, Ibn-Sina University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Corneal hydrops is an aqueous infiltration of the cornea following a breach in the descemet membrane. Its occurrence is a turning point in the evolution of keratoconus. His diagnosis is clinical. Its therapeutic management can be divided into two parts, medical and surgical. This has seen some progress in recent years. We expose during this article the interest of the injection of SF6 gas in the rapid resolution of acute hydrops.
When the Cataract Takes on an Unusual Appearance
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco, EM Najoua , Z Hilali ,   Department of Ophthalmology, “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
Published: March 2024

We report the case of a 56 year -old patient, with the notion of a neglected ocular trauma of the right eye 6 years ago, with a progressive decrease in visual acuity for 4 years. The ophthalmological examination of the right eye showed a visual acuity with finger movement, an ocular tone of 15 mmhg with a regressive cataract in the anterior segment with a retracted aspect and an embossed anterior surface. Ocular ultrasound was performed and returned normal. The ophthalmological examination of the left eye did not reveal any abnormality. A phacoemulsification cataract surgery was performed with a good postoperative evolution.
Multimodal Retinal Imaging of Paediatric Focal Choroidal Excavations
Authors:   Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, UK, K Clarke , K Mahgoubn ,   Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, UK, K Hurtikova ,   Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, UK, D Thomas ,   Moorfields Eye Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, UK
Published: March 2024

A 13-year-old female presented with reduced visual acuity of 6/36. Fundal imaging revealed foveal and eccentric focal choroidal excavations (Figure 1A). Optical coherence tomography confirmed the presence of two cavitating deformations of the choroid with disturbance of the foveal outer retinal layers and corresponding subretinal haemorrhage [1]. The foveal lesion was associated with a choroidal neovascular membrane and a suspected inflammatory element. Late-phase fluorescein angiography (Figure 1B) revealed large central leakage (red arrowhead) and faint hyperfluorescence overlying the eccentric lesion (red arrow).
The Role of Nanofibers in the Treatment of Corneal Defects: A Review
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Královské Vinohrady and 3rd Medical Faculty, Czech Republic, K Šenková , H Elbaz ,   Department of Psychiatry, Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Israel, A Klézlová ,   Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Královské Vinohrady and 3rd Medical Faculty, Czech Republic, M Netuková ,   Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Královské Vinohrady and 3rd Medical Faculty, Czech Republic, P Studený ,   Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Královské Vinohrady and 3rd Medical Faculty, Czech Republic,   Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Královské Vinohrady and 3rd Medical Faculty, Czech Republic
Published: March 2024

Severe damage of the ocular surface is still one of the leading causes of impaired vision. Next to widely used treatment methods, such as keratoplasty and usage of amniotic membrane, a new approach has been in the focus of the research for the past few years. This review presents possibilities for using nanofibrous materials in the treatment of corneal defects. There is a broad spectrum of natural and synthetic polymers suitable for this purpose. Thanks to their mechanical strength, nanofibrous scaffolds are durable, and due to their high porosity, they promote optimal cell growth and proliferation conditions. Those three-dimensional, thread-like structures can also be used as a drug delivery system for different substances, such as antibiotics or stem cells.
Unilateral Exophthalmia Revealing Postpartum Thrombophlebitis
Authors:   Department of Ophtalmology, Mohamed V Military Hosipital, Rabat, Morocco, Y Debbabi , Y Mouzari ,   Department of Ophtalmology, Mohamed V Military Hosipital, Rabat, Morocco, T Abdellaoui ,   Department of Ophtalmology, Mohamed V Military Hosipital, Rabat, Morocco, Y Mouzari ,   Department of Ophtalmology, Mohamed V Military Hosipital, Rabat, Morocco, A Oubaaz ,   Department of Ophtalmology, Mohamed V Military Hosipital, Rabat, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Cerebral thrombophlebitis of the peripartum is a rare entity but its occurrence is serious and can compromise the vital prognosis. The clinical picture is variable, which makes early diagnosis difficult. Patients and Methods: We report the case of a 28-year-old patient, on oral contraception for 3 years, with no previous history; who presented rapidly progressive bilateral visual acuity loss associated with headaches. The examination revealed a painless exophamia of the left eye without motor deficit, a slight chemosis with subconjunctival venous vasodilatation, associated with a bilateral papillary edema confirmed by OCT. CT scan showing a cerebral thrombophlebitis of the superior longitudinal sinus extended to the jugular vein with slight cerebral edema. The patient was immediately admitted to the intensive care unit and put on heparin therapy and additional immunological tests. Discussion: Pregnancy and postpartum increases the risk of thrombotic events. The most common cause in women of childbearing age is hypercoagulability, associated with the postpartum period, pregnancy, or oral contraceptives which is the case of our patient. Clinical symptoms are very polymorphic. The main thing is to think about it in order to make an early diagnosis. The positive diagnosis is neuroradiological. Improved diagnostic methods and consequent earlier treatment have markedly improved the prognosis of CVT in recent year. Conclusion: Postpartum cerebral venous thrombosis is a rare but serious pathology. The clinical diagnosis is not easy because of the clinical polymorphism, it is necessary to know how to think about it even in front of purely ophthalmological signs and to ask for neuro-radiological examinations to confirm it. The prognosis remains good if the diagnosis is made in time and if the treatment is started early.
A Star-Shaped Cataract Induced by Chlorpromazine
Authors:   Department of Ophtalmology A, Specialty Hospital Rabat, University Mohamed V, Morocco, Sefrioui Meryem , Lazaar Hamza ,   Department of Ophtalmology A, Specialty Hospital Rabat, University Mohamed V, Morocco, Hamid Salma ,   Department of Ophtalmology A, Specialty Hospital Rabat, University Mohamed V, Morocco, Genchekroun Saad ,   Department of Ophtalmology A, Specialty Hospital Rabat, University Mohamed V, Morocco, Cherkaoui Lalla Ouafa ,   Department of Ophtalmology A, Specialty Hospital Rabat, University Mohamed V, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Chlorpromazine is reported to cause damage to the ocular tissues consisting of fine granulations in the anterior subcapsular layers of the lens and in the posterior surface of the cornea. Vision decline is not noted until advanced stages and patients commonly describe glare and halos. Monitoring cataract is recommended in patients on chlorpromazine for an early detection of this rare side effect that can eventually lead to a surgical intervention. We report the case of a 35-year-old subject with a history of schizophrenia treated with chlorpromazine tablet 400 mg daily for 14 years, presenting with a blurred vision in the left eye. His vision was 8/10 in the left eye and 10/10 in the right eye using Snellen chart.
Central Retinal Artery Occlusion with Sparing of a Double Cilioretinal Artery: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Moubarik Najoua El , Lazaar Hamza ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Tazi Kenza ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Bnechekroun Saad ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Boutimzine Nourdine ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Amazouzi Abdellah ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Tachfoufi Samira ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco, Cherkaoui lalla Ouafae ,   Department of Ophthalmology “A”, Ibn Sina University Hospital (Hôpital des Spécialités), Mohammed V University, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) is a rare condition that is functionally life-threatening. It is the equivalent of an ischemic stroke. The cilio retinal artery is an anatomical variant that allows supplementing the vascularization of the macula in case of occlusion of the central retinal artery. CRAO consists of the following four distinct clinical entities: non-arteritic CRAO (NA-CRAO), transient NA-CRAO, NA-CRAO with cilioretinal artery sparing, and arteritic CRAO. Clinical characteristics, visual outcome, and management very much depend upon the type of CRAO. We report the case of a 29-year-old patient, with a history of recurrent angina, who presented with a sudden decrease in visual acuity in his left eye two days before his consultation. The diagnosis of central retinal artery occlusion sparing a double cilioretinal artery was evoked and treated early, allowing a significant visual recovery.
4 Week’s Report for Virtual Reality on Children Amblyopia Therapy
Authors:   Tianming Ophthalmology and Optometry Clinics, Dali, 671099, Yunnan, China, Qiu Kaikai
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To compare safety and Visual Acuity (VA) improvement in children with amblyopia treated with Virtual Reality (VR) plus spectacle correction and patching versus. spectacle correction and patching only. Design: Multicenter randomized clinical trial. Subjects: Twenty-eight subjects aged 4 to 12 years with amblyopia (20/400 to 20/25) from strabismus, refractive amblyopia, and visual deprivation amblyopia or combined types according to “Consensus of experts in the diagnosis of Amblyopia” in 2011 by Chinese Ophthalmology Society. Subjects were required to have never been treated or stopped treatment of patching over 4 weeks prior to enrollment. Subjects were randomly assigned to either VR games for 0.5 hour a day with patching and spectacles correction (12 subjects; VR group) or patching and spectacles correction (18 subjects; control group). Study follow-up visits were scheduled at 4, 8, and 13 weeks. This paper was only for 4 weeks. Methods: Eligible subjects (mean baseline corrected logMarVA was 0.54±0.28) were randomly assigned to treatment for 4 weeks with the VR binocular therapy (prescribed for 30min per day 3 days per week) plus spectacle correction and patching if needed (n=12) or spectacle correction with patching if needed (n=16). Main outcome measures: Advent event in VR group and change in amblyopic-eye VA from baseline to 4 weeks, assessed by a masked examiner. Results: Safety: All 28 children reported no severe adverse event or device failure rate during 4 weeks of treatment; There was no significant difference between the dropping BCVA of fellow eye between VR group and control group. There were 12 and 16 experimental groups and control groups in baseline group, respectively, 8 and 6 completed complete 4-week treatment and follow-up. Effective: At Week 4, the VR group had a significant improvement in BCVA (logMarVA=0.4±0.35) compared to baseline BCVA (logMarVA=0.575±0.34) (P=0.029, t-test); The BCVA of the relatively good eyes in the experimental group improved but was not significant (logMarVA increased from baseline 0.169 to 0.115); At the baseline, there was no significant difference between the baseline and the control group, with the average BCVA of 0.575 to 0.34, 0.588 to 0.26 (P=0.914), and after 4 weeks of treatment, the VR group had an average BCVA (0.40±0.35, n=6), higher than the control group’s average BCVA (0.525 ± 0.26, n=8), but the difference was not significant (P=0.458). Conclusions: Caterna Virtual Reality was safe with a viable treatment option for the children amblyopia. Combining therapy of VR, spectacles and patching at baseline significantly improved the BCVA at 4 weeks.
Bilateral Orbital Myositis: A Rare Case Report
Authors:   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco, Yousfi M , Chahir R ,   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco, Daghouj G ,   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco, Elmaaloum L ,   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco, Allali B ,   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco, Elkettani A ,   Department of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Hospital August 20, 1953, Morocco
Published: March 2024

The orbital idiopathic myositis is included in the group of orbital inflammatory pseudotumors. It’s an isolated inflammation, unspecific of orbital muscles. This pathology is rare in Children and it is a source of real diagnosis problems. We report the case of a 10-year-old boy who was hospitalized for bilateral painful exophthalmos. We report the case of a 10-year-old boy who was hospitalized for bilateral exophthalmos of abrupt onset, painful, axial, and non reducible with complete ophthalmoplegia of both eyes. The examination showed a retained Visual Acuity (VA) of 10/10 with a normal Fundus Examination (FO) in both eyes. The inflammatory and thyroid work-up are negative. The orbital tomodensitometry revealed a grade I exophtalmitis and a thickening of external and inferior muscles. The corticotherapy leaded to the decline of exophtalmitis andnormalization of eye movements after 1 month of treatment. The etiologic survey was negative, then the diagnosis of idiopathic myositis was kept. The orbital idiopathic myositis stills an eliminating diagnosis. Faced to a child’s exophtalmitis, other differential diagnosis must be excluded by an advanced etiologic survey.
Retinal Hemangioblastoma Revealing Von Hippel-Lindau Disease: Case Report
Authors:   Resident Doctor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Boussetta Sofia , Ait Lhaj Jihane ,   Resident Doctor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Hidan Younes ,   Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Venter Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Mchachi Adil ,   Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Venter Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Benhmidoune Leïla ,   Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Venter Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Rayad Rachid ,   Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Venter Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco, Mohamed El Belhadji ,   Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, 20 Aout 1953 Teaching Hospital, University Hospital Venter Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Von Hippel–Lindau disease (VHL), also known as Von Hippel–Lindau syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder with multisystem involvement. It is characterised by the development of multiple vascularised tumours, particularly cerebellar, retinal and/or visceral. The disease can occur at any age and usually starts with retinal hemangioblastomas We report the case of A 17 years old patient with VHL family history who presented with progressive unilateral decrease of visual acuity evolving for 6 months. The fundus examination showed a retinal examination with significant edema. The fluorescein angiography confirmed the diagnosis. The Brain MRI and the abdominal CT scan were normal. The patient had to undergo photocoagulation of the retinal lesions Management of patients with VHL disease often requires a multidisciplinary approach. The role of the ophthalmologist is important in the management of this condition since the ocular involvement may be indicative of the disease.
Slipknot: An Ameliorated Technique for Pterygium Conjunctival Autograft
Authors:   Department of Ophthalmology, Provincial Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, PR China, Zhang Huiying , Jiang Ling ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Provincial Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, PR China, Li Qiong ,   Department of Ophthalmology, Provincial Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fujian Provincial Hospital, PR China
Published: March 2024

Conjunctival autograft was now the best method in pterygium operation. An absorbable suture with slipknot was used to fix the grafts of pterygium. A week after the surgery, most of the stitches had disintegrated and fallen out. This easy technique reduces the postoperative pain and the conjunctival reaction in the early postoperative period. It enables the surgeon to eliminate the need for postoperative suture removal, and relieve the patient’s anxiety of removing stitches during the review.
Interest of Macular OCT in Severe Myopia: About 62 Cases
Authors:   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco, Ihssan Hasnaoui , Krichen Amine ,   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco, Hassina Salma ,   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco, Chaimaa Bardi ,   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco, Serghini Louai ,   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco, Elhassan Abdellah ,   Department of Ophtalmologie B & Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hospital of Specialities, University Mohamed V, CHU ibn Sina Rabat, Morocco
Published: March 2024

Myopic maculopathies are the leading cause of visual impairment. Clinically, they are characterized by a decrease in vision, most often at close range, sometimes associated with an impression of distorted vision. Numerous advances have recently been made in the clinical and therapeutic approach to this disease. Modern imaging examinations (optical coherence tomography, digital angiography) allow earlier detection of retinal lesions in myopic patients. A better understanding of the mechanisms leading to this complication may lead to new therapeutic perspectives.
Assessment of the institutional trust level of students in modern Russian society in the context of global cultural and digital transformations
Authors: Tanina M. A. , Bondarenko V. V. , Yudina V. A. , Zyablikova O. A.
Published: March 2024

One of the key factors influencing the political development and stability of the Russian Federation (hereinafter referred to as RF, Russia) is trust of citizens in political and social institutions. At the same time, youth is part of the Russian society with which the strategic prospects for progress of the country and vectors of socio-economic transformations are connected. The insufficient degree of confidence in the authorities will hinder effective implementation of societal development processes that also occur in socio-economic and institutional systems. The article presents the questionnaire results of students from Russian universities (N = 780 people) and colleges (N = 780 people) conducted in 2023; educational institutions are located in 41 subjects of the RF in all federal districts. The study revealed a relatively low level of trust of the Russian student youth to various government institutions, while the level of trust in regional authorities is lower than in fede ral ones. This is due to lack of awareness of young people about their activities. Additionally, most of the youth does not undertake a purposeful search and critical analysis of information, does not follow news about the work of authorities. It was also revealed that various network information spaces (social networks, regional digital Internet communities, official websites of government bodies and news portals) have a significant potential to increase institutional trust of students, since they cause the highest level of confidence.
Features of business ecosystems promotion
Authors: Arzhanova K. A. , Kachalova A. S.
Published: March 2024

The article is devoted to the tools for promoting business ecosystems in Russia in 2023.

   The purpose of the study is to determine the tools.

   The methodological basis of this study was formed by the main works on business and business ecosystems promotion. In the course of the research, the follo wing sources were examined: the Internet resources of Russian companies and the object in question, mass media sources in the field of marketing, advertising and public relations, as well as the works of Russian and foreign authors. The main tools of business promotion with the help of geo-services, influencers, and electronic mail are considered, and their features, application specifics are described. The following directions that Russian business ecosystems are already using to promote their goods and services are analysed: management of their own media, large-scale rebranding, which affects positioning and visual component, holding various events aimed at achieving a company’s goals. The article also predicts the direction of trends in business ecosystems promotion. They can be included by new business ecosystems when building their own marketing strategy. Further research in this field may be connected to work on determining the stages of business ecosystems promotion, understanding how this can be done with consideration to the specificity of a particular company.
Computed vs Experimental Energy Barriers in Solution: Influence of the type of the density functional approximation.
Authors: Denjean Aurore E. F. , Rio Jordan , Ciofini Ilaria , Perrin Marie-Eve L. , Payard Pierre-Adrien
Published: March 2024

Mechanistic investigations at the Density Functional Theory (DFT) level of organic and organometallic reactions in solution are now broadly accessible and routinely implemented to complement experimental investigations. The selection of an appropriate functional among the plethora of developed ones is the first challenge on the way to reliable energy barrier calculations. To provide guidelines for the choice of an initial and reliable computational level, the performances of commonly used non-empirical (PBE, PBE0, PBE0-DH) and empirical density functionals (BLYP, B3LYP, B2PLYP) were evaluated relative to experimental activation enthalpies. Most reactivity databases to assess density functional performances are primarily based on high level calculations, here a set of experimental activation enthalpies of organic and organometallic reactions performed in solution were selected from the literature. As a general trend, the non-empirical functionals outperform the empirical ones. The most accurate energy barriers are obtained with hybride PBE0 and double-hybrid PBE0-DH density functionals, both providing similar performance. Regardless of the functional under consideration, the addition of the GD3-BJ empirical dispersion correction does not enhance the accuracy of computed energy barriers.
Development of a practical in silico method for predicting compound brain concentration-time profiles in mice: combination of modeling and machine learning simulation
Authors: Handa Koichi , Fujita Daichi , Hirano Mariko , Yoshimura Saki , Kageyama Michiharu , Iijima Takeshi
Published: March 2024

Given the aging populations in advanced countries globally, many pharmaceutical companies have focused on developing central nervous system (CNS) drugs. However, due to the blood-brain barrier, drugs do not easily reach the target area in the brain. Although conventional screening methods for drug discovery involve the measurement of (unbound fraction of drug) brain-to-plasma partition coefficients, it is difficult to consider non-equilibrium between plasma and brain compound concentration-time profiles. To truly understand the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of CNS drugs, compound concentration-time profiles in the brain are necessary; however, such analyses are costly, time consuming, and require a significant number of animals. Therefore, in this study, we attempted to develop an in silico prediction method that does not require a large amount of experimental data by combining modeling and simulation (M&S) with machine learning (ML). First, we constructed a hybrid model linking plasma concentration-time profile to the brain compartment that takes into account the transit time and brain distribution of each compound. Using mouse plasma and brain time experimental values for 103 compounds, we determined the brain kinetic parameters of the hybrid model for each compound; this case was defined as scenario I (a positive control experiment) and included the full brain concentration-time profile data. Next, we built an ML model using chemical structure descriptors as explanatory variables and rate parameters as the target variable, and we then input the predicted values from 5-fold cross-validation (CV) into the hybrid model; this case was defined as scenario II, in which no brain compound concentration-time profile data exist. Finally, for scenario III, assuming that the brain concentration is obtained at only one time point, we used the brain kinetic parameters from the result of the 5-fold CV in scenario II as the initial values for the hybrid model and performed parameter re-fitting against the observed brain concentration at that time point. As a result, the RMSE/R2-values of the brain compound concentration-time profiles over time were 0.445/0.517 in scenario II and 0.246/0.805 in scenario III, indicating the method provides high accuracy and suggesting that it is a practical method for predicting brain compound concentration-time profiles.
Examining the Sustainability of the Youth Peer Health Education Network within Primary Schools in Njombe, Tanzania
Authors: Blackwell Frida , Carnevale Franco , Liduke Bathesba , Sanga George M , Sanzone Lia , Buck Madeleine
Published: March 2024

Youth Peer Health Education (YPHE) is a health promotion technique that promotes sharing information, values, and behaviours among demographically matched peers. YPHE is increasingly being utilized in schools in sub-Saharan Africa to address the need for HIV prevention. Since September of 2010, a YPHE program has been ongoing within 50 primary schools in the Njombe region of Tanzania, where the prevalence of HIV is the highest in the country at 5.1% among youth aged 15-24. The program is managed by volunteers of the non-governmental organization Highlands Hope Umbrella (HHU), with no external source of funding since 2014. This qualitative research study examined the facilitators and barriers to the future sustainability of the program. Data was collected from individual interviews with key informants, participant observation during YPHE meetings, and focus group sessions with youth peer health educators and teacher-mentors. Facilitators for sustainability included an increase in leadership abilities among youth, a sense of moral responsibility to decrease the prevalence of HIV in the region, and ongoing support from adults in positions of authority. Barriers to sustainability included a lack of teaching materials, inadequate communication between involved members, scheduling issues, and no continuous source of funding. These findings will help inform sexual health programs for youth in low-recourse settings, and can be used to promote the integration of YPHE programs into school curriculums, leading to changesin health and education policies.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices related to Hypertension in Low- and Middle-income Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: Asad Maha , Wang Gary , Pilote Louise
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to collect and analyze qualitative data on knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards hypertension (HTN) among adults in low and middle-income countries (LMICs), in order to better inform future research or policy interventions. Studies were included in the review if they examined HTN KAP of adults located in LMICs as defined by the World Bank, using qualitative methods. The databases searched were MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Global Health, and LILACS. Data was collected on participants’ knowledge of HTN causes, symptoms, and risk factors, sources of HTN information, beliefs and practices regarding checking blood pressure regularly, perceived importance/danger of HTN, and behaviour concerning HTN modifiable risk factors. A total of 16 qualitative studies were included from ten countries. Overall, there were numerous cultural and psycho-social understandings, both correct and incorrect, of HTN. Social support from community and family members were a crucial aspect of HTN KAP, as the most common source of HTN information and a factor in decisions regarding blood pressure checks and lifestyle changes. Urbanicity was perceived to worsen HTN outcomes through heightened social stress, physical inactivity, and other barriers, which also differed according to sex. In general, this review has two important implications. First, community- and gender-based initiatives are needed to address barriers to lifestyle changes related to HTN risk factors. Second, growth and development in LMICs must mitigate these barriers at their root causes of poverty and inequality. Possible limitations include the generalisation of findings due to the heterogeneity of included studies, and the LMIC classification due to wide inequalities in some high income countries, both of which highlight the need for further qualitative research in low-resource settings.
A Critical Look at Refugee Healthcare in Canada
Authors: Pai Poojitha , Peer Leah Sarah , Gao Jenny , Roy-Chowdhury Shreyashish , Singh Jasrita , Mardon Austin
Published: March 2024

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) was initiated in 1957 by the Canadian government to provide basic health insurance for refugees and refugee claimants. After a series of budgetcuts in 2012 and reinstatement of services in 2016, the IFHP has been met with confusion by healthcare professionals. Complex administrative processes have led to reluctance in providing care for refugees, including refugee claimants, by various healthcare providers. Refugees already face several barriers that hinder their ability to access care. Given the lack of awareness around the IFHP amongst professionals, this paper outlines recommendations and actionable steps for various key stakeholders to improve their knowledge of and commitment to the IFHP. Potential strategies include advocating for a simplified administrative process, holding government officials accountable for poor policy implementation, and enlisting the help of civil society organizations to raise awareness about the IFHP. These interventions are the first step in ensuring that the values of equity and multiculturalism are embraced in the healthcare system.
Evidence for employing post-secondary educated youth as research assistants in global health disability research
Authors: Cleaver Shaun , Lastford Miyandai Malambo , Likonge Kapolesai Patra , Akufuna Nalikenai Lynn
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a participatory qualitative case review of the employment of postsecondary educated assistants in a global health research program. The research program was initiated by a visiting Canadian researcher who was a supervised principal investigator exploring disability in Western Zambia. This research was supported by eight paid Zambian research assistants (RAs), three of whom participated in the case review. The case review was informed by a dialogue in which participants identified and shared their perspectives regarding the effects of the employment of RAs in the program. The perspectives of the RAs about the effects of their employment were identified as two themes: professional skill acquisition and increased quality of life. The perspectives of the visiting researcher regarding the effects of the RA employment were identified as four themes: increased productivity, access to skills, increased integration in the community, and continuity. From the collective perspective of all co-authors, the employment of RAs made this research program more productive, rigorous, and equitable while also creating opportunities for Zambian youth. The co-authors recommend that global health researchers consider employing post-secondary educated RAs and engage in a wider dialogue about expanding and improving this arrangement. These perspectives and recommendations have been generated according to a radical, participatory action, research tradition that should be taken into account as other members of the global health community assess this evidence to inform their own activities.
Survey of Young People’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge in Northern Namibia
Authors: Talbot Karine , Ruiz-Casares Mónica
Published: March 2024

During the first COVID-19 lockdown in Namibia (March-September 2020), there were an estimated 3,600 teenage pregnancies, an increase from the annual average of 1,400 (1). The regions of Kavango East and West were particularly impacted. In response to these figures, the Ombetja Yehinga Organisation (OYO), a youth-focused Namibian non-governmental organization, administered a survey to assess students’ sexual and reproductive health knowledge. This survey will provide baseline information regarding the effectiveness of a school-based intervention to promote safe sexual behaviours using the “Teenage Pregnancy” info-magazine. Young people completed an in-person survey which included questions relating to demographic characteristics, True or False sexual and reproductive health statements, and knowledge of contraception and school policy. Questionnaires were administered in groups after school hours by trained facilitators, checked for completeness and confidentiality using a unique identification code, scanned and shared with the team at McGill University for data entry and analysis. A total of 13 schools and 794 students aged 13-25 years participated in the survey and were included in data analysis. Knowledge on access and the safe use of contraceptives was limited, suggesting that school-based interventions (such as the OYO program) may be necessary to disseminate this crucial information.
Failure of User Fees
Authors: Lehmann Bea , Sheng-Ya Huang Sophia , Chavenet Christina , Danaie Homa , Douglas Laura , Jutras Kevin , Phillips Sydny
Published: March 2024

The end of health care user fees is within sight for an increasing number of African countries whom this policy was imposed upon in the late 1980 and early 1990s. User fees were part of structural adjustment programs (SAPs) dictated to developing countries by the World Bank, influenced by the Bamako Initiative. The West African country of Mali is presently working towards eliminating user fees and implementing Universal Health Care (UHC). This paper investigates health indicators of pregnant women in Mali during user fee implementation to show the negative impact of the policy, and extrapolates to future outcomes when UHC is available. For example, when user fees were removed in pilot projects, Caesarean costs decreased from 95-136 $USD to 0.80-10 $USD, and Caesarean rates increased by a factor of 2.5. As well, with user fees, Malian citizens had to pay an average of 2 months of salary per health care visit, severely limiting those who could access services. These numbers show that vulnerable individuals in Mali, such as expecting mothers, likely experience unmet need for healthcare services in Mali, and the current user fees system is insufficient and inequitable.
Reducing Open Defecation Through Community-Led Total Sanitation in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar: A Case Study
Authors: Richer Joanne , Mouillier Anne
Published: March 2024

Globally, an estimated 4.5 billion people lack safe water and sanitation services. In Madagascar, open defecation is particularly commonplace, with nearly half of the population practicing it. Construction of latrines alone is ofen insufcient in reducing this number, as availability does not mean the latrines will be used by the community. Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) is an approach which aims to reduce the prevalence of open defecation by catalyzing community action towards increasing use of latrines and other personal hygiene behaviors. Tis case study evaluates the hybridCLTS approach implemented by SEED Madagascar in Fort Dauphin, Madagascar, between 2014 and 2017. Specifcally, the intervention’s impact on sanitation and hygiene behavior outcomes, and health outcomes are investigated. Te report concludes that this intervention is a successful example of adapting a CLTS approach to an urban context where open defecation practices are driven by a complex set of traditional and cultural beliefs. However, signifcant challenges must be overcome to support such an approach, including ensuring adequate stakeholder engagement, sustainable fnancing, and broader Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) strategies. Recommendations include fostering partnerships with other organizations, integrating participatory planning approaches, and promoting sustainable sanitation entrepreneurship.
Statistical relationships of cnidocyst sizes in the sea anemone Oulactis muscosa (Actiniaria: Actiniidae)
Authors: Acuña Fabián H. , Ricci Lila , Excoffon Adriana C.
Published: March 2024

This study analysis the multivariate statistical relationships among cnidocyst types and tissues in terms of cnidocyst capsule size in the sea anemone O. muscosa. In a total of 12 individuals we measured the length of 30 unfired capsules of each cnida type, taken randomly from each of the following tissues: tentacles, acrorhagi, column, actinopharynx and mesenterial fila-ments. In these tissues, we found spirocysts, basitrichs, microbasic b-mastigophores, microbasic p-mastigophores and holotrichs. Thus, a total of 5400 measurements were made. Looking for a common pattern of variation, a principal components analysis (PCA) was performed on the data matrix, among cnidocyst types for each tissue and between tissues for each cnidocyst type. The results showed that the lengths of most cnidocysts, whether from the same or different tissues, are not statistically related to each other, suggesting that different forces (cnidogenesis, replacement dynamics, etc.), could affect in various forms the development and therefore the length of each cnida, depending on the type or tissue of origin.
A reference list of fish species for a heavily modified transitional water: The Zeeschelde (Belgium)
Authors: Breine Jan , Stevens Maarten , Van den Bergh Ericia , Maes Joachim
Published: March 2024

A crucial step in the development of a fish-based index for the ecological assessment of water bodies as provided by the European Water Framework Directive is to define a reference list of fish species occurring in pristine rivers. The aim of this study was to elaborate such a list. The reference corresponds to an ecological status that is referred to as Good or Maximal Ecological Potential (GEP/MEP). Based on historically-reported fish survey data of the Zeeschelde estuary (Belgian part of the Schelde estuary) and its tributaries, i.e. an affluent system, under tidal influence, presence/absence reference lists were compiled for different salinity zones and adjusted using information from recent catches. In addition, an MEP list of fishes occurring in the Westerschelde (Dutch part of the Schelde estuary), developed by JAGER & KRANENBARG (2004), is provided to present a complete overview of the Schelde estuary. Inclusion of fish species in the reference lists depended on their natural geographical distribution and ecological demands. These reference lists contain guild-specific information for the different zones within the estuary and its tidal tributaries.
Reverse-engineering the anti-MUC1 antibody 139H2 by mass spectrometry–based de novo sequencing
Authors: Peng Weiwei , Giesbers Koen CAP , Šiborová Marta , Beugelink J Wouter , Pronker Matti F , Schulte Douwe , Hilkens John , Janssen Bert JC , Strijbis Karin , Snijder Joost
Published: March 2024

Mucin 1 (MUC1) is a transmembrane mucin expressed at the apical surface of epithelial cells at mucosal surfaces. MUC1 has a barrier function against bacterial invasion and is well known for its aberrant expression and glycosylation in adenocarcinomas. The MUC1 extracellular domain contains a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) of 20 amino acids, which are heavilyO-linked glycosylated. Monoclonal antibodies against the MUC1 VNTR are powerful research tools with applications in the diagnosis and treatment of MUC1-expressing cancers. Here, we report direct mass spectrometry–based sequencing of anti-MUC1 hybridoma-derived 139H2 IgG, enabling reverse-engineering of the functional recombinant monoclonal antibody. The crystal structure of the 139H2 Fab fragment in complex with the MUC1 epitope was solved, revealing the molecular basis of 139H2 binding specificity to MUC1 and its tolerance toO-glycosylation of the VNTR. The available sequence of 139H2 will allow further development of MUC1-related diagnostic, targeting, and treatment strategies.