bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding and Overcoming Barriers to Admissions and Timely Discharges in a Cancer Hospital: A Case Study of National Centre for Cancer Care and Research, Doha, Qatar
Authors: Gul Abdul Rehman Zar , Philip Anite , Abu Issa Zyad , Eziada Saad S. , Fadul Afraa , Elahi Anil Yousaf , Kanbour Aladdin I. M. , Al -Khater Al- Hareth M. , Vatsyayan Priyadarsini Asmita , Mahmoud Radwa Maher , Jose Ison Emelita , Haddad Majed Jamal Saad , Salehaladwan Samer Mustafa , Varghese Anu , Silva Cristopher Gonzales , Raza Afsheen , Ninan Sosamma , Romdhane Mohammad Ben Ali , Aljabri Ahmad Khalid Ismail , James Molley , Zghool Naser Abdelmajeed Hussein , Jose Fenil , Ali Nima Ahmed , Fraser Andrew James , Bujassoum Salha , Alhassan Mohammed Salem Jaber , Al Tawreneh Nayel Abdulla
Published: July 2024

Background

Improving access to healthcare is crucial for patient experience, clinical safety, timeliness of care, and reducing staff pressure. The National Centre for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR), the primary cancer center in Qatar, confronted challenges in delivering quality cancer care and services.

Aim

This project aimed to identify factors limiting patient admissions and discharges at NCCCR to improve the average patient admission and discharge rates by 50%.

Methods

The study was conducted at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research (NCCCR) in Qatar from June 2020 to December 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the average number of inpatient admissions, discharges, and patient length of stay. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) Model for Improvement tool was utilized to test changes at the facility level.

Results

A comparison of baseline data in Quarter 2 (Q2) 2020 with Quarter 4 (Q4) 2021 showed a 37% increase in the average number of inpatient admissions and a 62% increase in inpatient discharges. The number of patients staying 0-10 days increased by 39% from Q2 2020 to Q4 2021.

Conclusion

This project identified several factors affecting patient admission and discharge services. Implementation of strategies such as establishing a physician-led discharge multidisciplinary committee, conducting frequent bed status evaluations by case managers and physicians, and expanding bed capacity led to significant improvements in the admission and discharge process.
Innovation in Knowledge Economy: A Case Study of 3D Printing's Rise in Global Markets and India
Authors: Semalty Aman , Agrawal Rajat
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

3D printing is a rapidly growing technology with features of enhanced
customizability, reduced errors, zero material waste, reduced costs, and quick turnaround
times. In this work, the data were collected from the Derwent Innovation and Web of Science
databases for patent and publication search, respectively.

Method:

The results were critically
analysed and correlated with the global and Indian market growth. USA (with 5 out of the top
ten patent contributing companies), China, Germany, France, and Taiwan were determined to
be the top countries with the maximum number of patents on 3D printing technology. Both patents and publications exhibited consistent growth until 2011. From 2012 onwards, the rate of
patent filings began to surpass that of academic publications, indicating a shift in the dynamics.

Results:

This trend has continued over the years, leading to a notable difference between the
number of patents (19,322) and publications (10,571) in the year 2022. India has been found to
rank 8th in 3D printing innovation and research, globally.

Conclusion:

In this study, the global
and Indian market growth has been observed and the opportunities and challenges for the Indian market have been critically studied.
MEMBANGUN JIWA MERDEKA BAGI DOSEN PANCASILA RELEVANSINYA BAGI PENGUATAN KARAKTER MAHASISWA
Authors: Santoso Heri ,   Universitas Gadjah Mada, Surono Surono , Ainia Dela Khoirul , Putri Kusuma , Hastangka Hastangka ,   Universitas Gadjah Mada,   Universitas Gadjah Mada,   Universitas Gadjah Mada,   Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional Republik Indonesia
Published: July 2024

Government policies related to the Independent Learning program and the Independent Campus will be difficult to achieve if lecturers, students, and education staff are still shackled to various life problems. Life problems become challenges and obstacles for lecturers to embody themselves maximally to be a person who has balanced skills in various aspects such as Intellectual (IQ), emotional (EQ), Spiritual (SQ), Kinesthetic (KQ), and Adversity (AQ). This article focuses on how to build an independent soul for Pancasila lecturers in making the government's Free Learning and Independent Campus programs a success. This study used a qualitative approach while the research sources were obtained through The Training of Trainer (ToT), Focus Group Discussions (FGD), structured coaching, and literature studies. The results obtained in this study indicate that the training can stimulate the development of an independent soul in lecturers, through the development of emotional, spiritual, intellectual, kinesthetic, and toughness aspects. This ability is the main capital in strengthening the character of students to be more independent.
ARKEOLOGI EPISTEMIK NARASI PERTENTANGAN AGAMA DAN PANCASILA
Authors: Anas Mohamad ,   Universitas Brawijaya, Setyaningsih Emy , Hasibuan Albar Adetary ,   Universitas Brawijaya,   Universitas Brawijaya
Published: July 2024

This article elaborates on the narrative that contrasts religion and Pancasila which has recently become stronger. This is marked by rejection by some groups who consider Pancasila an idol or taghut that must be fought. On the other hand, some express problematic views, such as in the KPK national test by asking which position is higher, between the Koran and Pancasila. This research is qualitative-descriptive with a hermeneutic approach, namely the researcher describes the narrative of the conflict and interprets it from a reproductive interpretive point of view. The theoretical basis used to obtain a complete picture and analysis of the conflict narrative is Pancasila philosophy, especially Pancasila epistemology. This theory is used to describe the source of the conflicting narrative, the structure of the conflicting narrative, and the validity of the conflicting narrative. The results of this research show that epistemic reproduction in narratives that position religion as higher than Pancasila, or conversely that Pancasila is higher than religion occurs in different forms and networks of power. In the first narrative, epistemic reproduction is intertwined with the ideas of Islamism and religious populism. Meanwhile, in the second narrative, epistemic reproduction is intertwined with the idea of radical nationality because the Republic of Indonesia is dead. The reproduction of the conflict narrative continues to be reproduced, even though in different contexts or times but is the same in terms of the substance of the conflict.
DIALOG LINTAS IMAN: UPAYA FORUM KERUKUNAN UMAT BERAGAMA DALAM MEMBANGUN KEHIDUPAN TOLERANSI UMAT BERAGAMA
Authors: Soffi Dewi Ariyanti ,   Universitas Brawijaya
Published: July 2024

The multi-religious reality cannot be avoided by the people of Indonesia, one of which is in the Lumajang Regency. If not treated properly, this condition will create the potential that lead to religious conflict. FKUB (Forum Kerukunan Umat Beragama) is a bridge between religion and the state in uniting a pluralistic Indonesian society to create religious spaces. Interfaith dialogue is a meeting place for the community and religious leaders, through joint discussion sessions to open people's insights regarding differences. The purpose of this research is to determine the implementation of interfaith dialogue activities that have been carried out by FKUB in building a life of religious tolerance in the Lumajang Regency. Through qualitative research methods with an ethnographic approach. Then, the authors conducted observations, interviews, and literature studies online and offline for data collection techniques. Theoretical analysis carried out in this case study uses the concept of "Interfaith Dialogue" by Hans Kung through participatory involvement which is divided into several activities, namely: 1) Inauguration of the Harmony Awareness Village; 2) Inter-Religious Harmony Dialogue in Senduro Village; 3) Inter-Religious Youth Harmony Dialogue (GEMA-UTAMA); 4) Interreligious Women's Dialogue (FP-KUB); 5) Independent film “Merajut Desa Satu Hati ". So this research can be an evaluation of interfaith dialogue activities related to how much the people of Lumajang Regency can accept differences and involve these differences in their daily activities.
De toegevoegde waarde van naverteltaken in spontane taalanalyses bij jonge kinderen met een taalontwikkelingsstoornis
Authors: Dubbeld Anneke , Scheffer Anoek , Boerma Tessel
Published: July 2024

Doel: In deze studie werd onderzocht in hoeverre taaluitingen van jonge kinderen met een taalontwikkelingsstoornis (TOS) tijdens een naverteltaak (semigestructureerde context) aanvullende informatie bieden over hun grammaticale vaardigheden en ontwikkeling naast taaluitingen tijdens een spelsituatie (niet-gestructureerde context). De resultaten van dit onderzoek kunnen logopedisten en klinisch linguïsten helpen bij het kiezen van een gepaste elicitatiecontext voor een spontane taalanalyse, waarmee grammaticale ontwikkeling gemonitord kan worden en goede behandeldoelen opgesteld kunnen worden.
Methode: Taalsamples van 27 kinderen met (een vermoeden van) TOS, in de leeftijd van drie tot zes jaar oud, werden onderzocht op twee meetmomenten met een interval van drie maanden. De kinderen zijn verdeeld in twee leeftijdsgroepen. Er is een vergelijking gemaakt tussen uitingen in een combinatiecontext (naverteltaak + spelsituatie) en uitingen in enkel een spelsituatie. Per meetmoment is het effect van elicitatiecontext op grammaticale complexiteit, diversiteit en correctheid geanalyseerd. Ook is gekeken naar het effect van elicitatiecontext op de grammaticale ontwikkeling tussen de meetmomenten. 
Resultaten: De resultaten laten zien dat de grammaticale complexiteit en diversiteit bij vijf- en zes-jarigen hoger zijn als een verteltaak wordt meegenomen in het taalsample, ten opzichte van enkel spontane taaluitingen tijdens een spelsituatie. Bij drie- en vierjarigen is geen effect van elicitatiecontext gevonden. Werkwoordvervoeging is bij beide leeftijdsgroepen minder correct als er een verteltaak wordt meegenomen. De elicitatiecontext heeft geen invloed op de grammaticale ontwikkeling over tijd.
Conclusies: De huidige studie laat zien dat verteltaken complexere en meer diverse uitingen uitlokken bij vijf- en zesjarige kinderen met TOS dan een spelsituatie. Verteltaken geven inzicht in grammaticale sterktes en zwaktes van deze kinderen die niet aan het licht zouden komen als alleen naar een spelsituatie wordt gekeken. Dit benadrukt het belang voor de klinische praktijk om na te denken over de elicitatiecontext van een spontane taalanalyse voor het opstellen van behandeldoelen.
Comportamiento estacional de bacterias en sedimentos de mangle negro Avicennia germinans
Authors: Silva-Ontiveros Crhistian Anibal , De los Santos Villalobos Sergio , Torres Jony R. , Martínez-Porchas Marcel , Piñón-Gimate Alejandra , Arreola-Lizárraga José Alfredo
Published: July 2024

Las bacterias son esenciales para el funcionamiento del ecosistema de manglar. El objetivo de este estudio fue examinar el comportamien-to estacional de las densidades y la actividad celulolítica de bacterias heterótrofas en sedimentos de mangle negro Avicennia germinans y su relación con la producción de hojarasca, variables de agua y sedimento en una laguna costera semiárida subtropical. El estudio se realizó en la laguna costera El Soldado, ubicada en la región central de la costa este del Golfo de California. Se realizaron muestreos de agua, de sedimentos y de producción de hojarasca de Avicennia germinans durante un ciclo anual. En el agua se determinaron paráme-tros fisicoquímicos y nutrientes inorgánicos disueltos; en los sedimentos se evaluó la textura, materia orgánica, nutrientes inorgánicos disueltos, así como las densidades y actividad celulolítica de bacterias heterótrofas. Los resultados mostraron valores más altos de den-sidades y actividad celulolítica de bacterias heterótrofas en primavera (4.9 log UFC g-1; 7%) y verano (4.9 log UFC g-1; 94%), y valores más bajos en otoño (3.9 log UFC g-1; 27%) e invierno (3.9 log UFC g-1; 11%). En primavera y verano, con mayor densidad bacteriana, se observaron los valores más altos de temperatura del agua, amonio en agua, materia orgánica en sedimentos y hojarasca del manglar. Se concluye que las densidades y actividad celulolítica de bacterias en sedimentos de mangle negro de región árida exhiben un patrón estacional acoplado a los ingresos de materia orgánica y los cambios de la temperatura del agua. Esta evidencia es importante porque contribuye a entender el papel de las bacterias en el funcionamiento del ecosistema.
Efectos del bikefit en biomecánica y fisiología del pedaleo: una revisión sistemática cualitativa
Authors: Aedo-Muñoz Esteban , Cerda-Kohler Hugo , Miarka Bianca , Merino-Muñoz Pablo , Brito Ciro , Pérez-Contreras Jorge , Lizana-Jeldres Ricardo Andrés , Arancibia-Iturbe Barbara
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo da cuenta de artículos que en los últimos diez años han analizado los efectos del bikefit en la cinética, cinemática, aspectos fisiológicos y comodidad durante el pedaleo. Para tal fin, examinó 18 estudios que cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y criterios de calidad, según la escala Downs & Black. A partir de los trabajos incluidos, llega a la conclusión de que el bikefit es una herramienta útil y necesaria para los atletas que practican ciclismo, ya que en ella pueden apreciarse vulnerabilidad ante el riesgo de lesión e incrementos del rendimiento deportivo. Destaca, finalmente, que el bikefit debería centrarse en la cinemática de las articulaciones, más que en la bicicleta de manera única.
Relación del fitness cardiorrespiratorio con la obesidad total y central en preescolares colombianos
Authors: Bustos-Viviescas Brian Johan , Carrillo-Benitez Danny Daniel , Acevedo-Mindiola Andrés Alonso , Quintero-Gómez Juan Camilo , Lozano-Zapata Rafael Enrique , García-Yerena Carlos Enrique
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo analiza la relación entre el índice de masa corporal (IMC) y el perímetro de cintura (PC) con el fitness cardiorrespiratorio en preescolares colombianos. Método: se valoró la obesidad total con IMC; la obesidad central con PC, y el fitness cardiorrespiratorio con PREFIT 20 m shuttle run test. Se utilizó SPSS V. 25 (Demo) (nivel de confianza del 95 % y un p-valor del 0,05) y se empleó la prueba de Shapiro-Wilk y el coeficiente correlacional de Spearman. Resultados: se identificó que el fitness cardiorrespiratorio no obtuvo distribución normal (p<0,05) y que la relación entre el IMC y el perímetro de cintura con el fitness cardiorrespiratorio fue baja (r < 0,30) y no significativa (p>0,05). Se concluye que la obesidad total y central no se relacionan con el fitness cardiorrespiratorio en preescolares colombianos.
Factores de riesgo cardiovascular y ejercicio físico en trabajadores del Ministerio de Transporte de Colombia
Authors: Montoya-Monroy Juan Sebastian , Mora-Romero Giovanni Arley , González-Garzón Giovanny Alexander , Argüello-Gutiérrez Yenny Paola , Castro-Jiménez Laura Elizabeth , Fonseca-Torres Nelsy Lorena , Sánchez-Rojas Isabel Adriana
Published: July 2024

Este capítulo examina la relación entre la práctica de ejercicio físico supervisado y los factores de riesgo cardiovascular y su prevalencia en funcionarios activos del Ministerio de Transporte de Colombia, en Bogotá. Método: estudio cuantitativo, con diseño retrospectivo-observacional, entre 2012- 2015. Se evaluaron 1149 participantes durante cuatro periodos, así: en 2012, 353; en 2013, 311; en 2014, 233, y en 2015, 252. Se recolectaron datos mediante encuesta realizada en el ministerio para seguimiento; la información se analizó con medidas de tendencia central y análisis bivariado aplicando prueba de chi-cuadrado. Resultados: hubo asociación entre las variables de hábitos de vida con la práctica de ejercicio físico programado. Se concluye que la actividad física programada conduce a la disminución de factores de riesgo cardiovascular de forma significativa.
Teacher Development for Content-Based Language Education
Authors: Ballinger Susan , Fielding Ruth , Tedick Diane J.
Published: July 2024

This book brings together findings on content-based teacher education from international contexts to help prepare teachers for this challenging setting. It offers a solid grounding in theories and applications of content-based approaches, promoting further teacher-researcher collaboration and professional development.
Technologies for Supporting Individuals and Caregivers Living With Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Scoping Review
Authors: Chu Joanna Ting Wai , Wilson Holly , Cai Cynthia Zhiyin , McCormack Jessica C , Newcombe David , Bullen Chris
Published: July 2024

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a common developmental disability that requires lifelong and ongoing support but is often difficult to find due to the lack of trained professionals, funding, and support available. Technology could provide cost-effective, accessible, and effective support to those living with FASD and their caregivers.

Objective

In this review, we aimed to explore the use of technology available for supporting people living with FASD and their caregivers.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to identify studies that included technology for people with FASD or their caregivers; focused on FASD; used an empirical study design; were published since 2005; and used technology for assessment, diagnosis, monitoring, or support for people with FASD. We searched MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, APA PsycINFO, ACM Digital Library, JMIR Publications journals, the Cochrane Library, EBSCOhost, IEEE, study references, and gray literature to find studies. Searches were conducted in November 2022 and updated in January 2024. Two reviewers (CZC and HW) independently completed study selection and data extraction.

Results

In total, 17 studies exploring technology available for people with FASD showed that technology could be effective at teaching skills, supporting caregivers, and helping people with FASD develop skills.

Conclusions

Technology could provide support for people affected by FASD; however, currently there is limited technology available, and the potential benefits are largely unexplored.
Creating User Personas to Represent the Needs of Dementia Caregivers who Support Medication Management at Home: A Qualitative User-Centered Design Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jolliff Anna , Loganathar Priya , Holden Richard , Linden Anna , Lee Jessica , Ganci Aaron , Campbell Noll , Boustani Malaz , Werner Nicole E.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Caregiver-assisted medication management plays a critical role in promoting medication adherence and quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD). Caregivers of people living with ADRD can benefit from interventions tailored to their medication management needs; however, the needs of caregivers related to medication management are not well understood.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to create user personas that reflect the variation in approaches and unmet needs among caregivers managing medication on behalf of people living with dementia.

METHODS

Participants were self-identified primary caregivers of people with ADRD living with or near the care recipient. Virtual contextual inquiry was completed in three stages: 1) enrollment interview, 2) virtual observation over a 1-week period, and 3) post-observation interview. Inductive content analysis of interview transcripts was used to identify dimensions of caregivers’ approaches to medication management. Team-based affinity diagramming was used to identify attributes within these dimensions. Attributes that frequently co-occurred within participants were grouped to create personas.

RESULTS

Participants (N=25) were a mean age 62.32 years (SD = 11.86) and 68% were female. Caregivers varied across six dimensions relevant to medication management: approach to medication acquisition, medication storage and organization, medication administration, monitoring the care recipient for symptoms, communication with care network regarding medication, and acquiring information about medication. Three personas were created to represent this variation in approaches to medication management: Checklist Cheryl, in Control; Social Sam, Keeps it Simple; and Responsive Rhonda, Stays Relaxed.

CONCLUSIONS

The identified dimensions of caregiver-assisted medication management, and the associated personas, can be used to inform the design of future interventions and technologies for caregivers of people living with ADRD who assist with medication management.
An entire fruit surface imaging system with the support of a mirror system and a flipping mechanism
Authors: Tran Nhut Thanh , Truong Minh Thuan , Huynh Cao Tan Toi , Pham Quoc Cong , Nguyen Chanh Nghiem , Nguyen Chi Ngon
Published: July 2024

Computer vision is considered a useful tool for evaluating the external quality of fruits. Some solutions for capturing the entire surface image of fruits have been implemented, but they still have limitations, such as not being able to guarantee capturing the entire surface, bulky, or expensive. In this study, a two-shot and simple system for capturing the entire surface image of fruits was proposed. With the support of a mirror system, the top and lateral surfaces of the fruits were captured. To capture the bottom surface of the fruits, a flip mechanism has been integrated into the system. Testing results with pomelo and mango showed that the entire surface of the fruits was fully observed with two shots. This shows that the proposed system has great potential for imaging the entire surface of fruits. Besides, this solution can also be easily integrated into automatic inspection applications to evaluate the quality of agricultural and other products.
The art of classroom observation: The Case of Quirino State University and Can Tho University
Authors: Pacursa Liriolyn , Alip Eduard , Do Thi Phuong Thao , Trinh Chi Tham
Published: July 2024

Classroom observation is a professional development model that helps lecturers gain a lot of experience in teaching effectively through cooperation, but it needs to be done in a reasonable way. The purpose of this study is to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of classroom observation and the strategies used by lecturers at College of Teacher Education (CTE), Quirino State University - Maddela Area the Philippines and School of Education (SoE), Can Tho University, Viet Nam used, correlated to the age, teaching experience, and education level of the respondents and to see whether there are any significant differences in the two cultures. The researchers used a descriptive type of design in the study, with a survey as the primary instrument for the data gathering. Using a quota sampling technique, 40 lecturers participated in the study. Based on the findings of the study, the majority of faculty members of CTE underwent classroom observation once per semester, whereas the majority of lecturers at SoE underwent classroom observation twice per semester. Moreover, the advantages of classroom observations outweigh the disadvantages as perceived by respondents. This finding provided evidence that both institutions implemented classroom observation for their lecturers. This simultaneously encourages lecturers to reflect and develop self-awareness about their practice and provides evidence of actual teacher performance, their strengths, and their areas for improvement. Thus, applicable recommendations for professional and organizational growth were made based on the found specific challenges to foster a collaborative environment favorable to improving teaching quality.
New Alignment Method Using Hydraulic Jack for Accelerating SWD 16 TM 410 R Engine and Generator Coupling
Authors: Nugroho Satriyo Dwi , Fajriannur Fajriannur
Published: July 2024

In 2019, the #6 PLTD Trisakti SWD (Stork Werkspoor Diesel) 16 TM 410 R underwent critical engine rehabilitation due to severe issues that had persisted since 2018. The rehabilitation necessitated the replacement of the crankshaft and bedplate. Given the engine and generator positioning adjustments, an alignment process was crucial to ensure correct realignment. Subsequently, the comprehensive rehabilitation efforts, containing alignment and engine-generator coupling, were concluded in March 2021. A misalignment issue was identified during the running test program as the generator shaft exhibited an imbalance. A realignment process and reattachment of fitted bolts were considered necessary to rectify this imbalance. The previous approach for this task demanded an extensive 54-day timeframe without a guaranteed resolution. This paper will discuss a breakthrough method for shaft alignment. By applying this new method, the alignment focus is directly at the point of the farthest deviation, compared to the previous method, which had to look for the midpoint of the x and y arcs. So that the alignment process can be carried out quickly and precisely. Apart from that, this innovation also proposes a new reaming method using line boring. This tool works more effectively than hand reaming, which requires more time and manpower. This innovation achieved an exceptional 81% reduction in processing time, concurrently leading to a significant decrease in the requisite workforce.
EFFECT OF AMINO ACID ADDITION AS STABILIZERS ON TOTAL PROTEIN CONTENT OF INTRAVENOUS THERAPEUTIC HUMAN NORMAL IMMUNOGLOBULIN
Authors: MANOJ KUMAR RAJPUT  , MANVANDRA PRATAP SINGH  , APRAJITA SINGH  , TARA CHAND  , ANOOP KUMAR  , MEENA KUMARI
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study was conducted to show the variation in total protein content of therapeutic immunoglobulin batches after the addition of free amino acids.
Methods: A total of 10 different batches of therapeutic human normal immunoglobulin from five different manufacturers were taken. The total protein content in these samples was determined by both Kjeldahl and Biuret methods. The total protein in these samples was also determined by both methods after the addition of 0.3 M glycine, 0.3 M arginine, and 0.3 M histidine separately.
Results: In neat samples, both methods quantified similar total protein content. However, both methods showed different protein contents where amino acids such as glycine, arginine, or histidine have been added. The total protein content by the Kjeldahl method in the samples added with glycine, arginine, or histidine was found higher as compared to the Biuret method.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that the manufacturers of therapeutic immunoglobulin should replace amino acid stabilizers with nonnitrogenous stabilizer because the Kjeldahl method recommended in various pharmacopeias is based on the detection of total nitrogen. Therefore, the addition of any nitrogenous stabilizer will be quantified as protein and results may be out of specification when minimum and maximum limits are prescribed in the pharmacopeia.
THE EFFECT OF ACNE VULGARIS ON QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG RURAL PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: RUCHIKA TRIPATHI  , UDAY PRABHAKAR  , RAJARAM YADAV
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Acne vulgaris affects a large majority of adolescents, often extending into adulthood. The aim of the study was to determine its impact on the quality of life (QoL).
Methods: This was a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study, conducted on 60 patients, who attended the dermatology outpatient department and were diagnosed with acne vulgaris by the physician. The severity of lesions was assessed using the global acne grading system, and QoL was assessed using the dermatology life quality index (DLQI) questionnaire. Statistical analysis was done to assess any possible association between DLQI with severity and sequelae of acne vulgaris.
Results: The mean DLQI score was 5.46. There was a significant association between DLQI and severity of acne grade (p<0.05).
Conclusion: There is a significant impact of acne on QoL, and hence, a holistic approach is required to treat it.
HERPES SIMPLEX KERATITIS IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE: A CLINICAL PRESENTATION
Authors: GOMPA MOHANA PREETHI  , DIKSHA PANCHBHAI
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The objectives of the study are (1) to evaluate the demography of herpes simplex keratitis and (2) to determine the incidence of various forms of herpes simplex keratitis. In developing countries, bacterial and fungal keratitis are the most common cause of keratitis. Hence, the epidemiology of herpes simplex keratitis is not well studied. The present study aims to study the epidemiology of herpes simplex keratitis.
Methods: It is a prospective study of herpes keratitis patients at a tertiary care center. The study was conducted on 50 patients who presented in the tertiary care center from January 1, 2021, to August 30, 2021. Detailed history, slit-lamp examination, fluorescein staining, corneal sensations, and other needful investigations were carried out. The diagnosis was made clinically.
Results: Males (60%) were affected more than females (40%). Most of the patients were between the ages of 30 and 50. The order of most common presentation is epithelial keratitis (60%), stromal keratitis (34%), endotheliitis (4%), and mixed stromal and epithelial keratitis (2%). The majority of the patients had mild visual impairment (60%).
Conclusion: Herpes simplex keratitis presented mostly in the 3rd–5th decade. In comparison to females, it is more common among males. The order of presentation observed was epithelial keratitis followed by stromal keratitis followed by endotheliitis followed by mixed stromal and epithelial keratitis. The majority of the patients presented with mild visual impairment.
A STUDY OF VISUAL OUTCOME AND COMPLICATIONS OF SCLERAL-FIXATED INTRAOCULAR LENS
Authors: KAMLESH NAJUKRAM LANJE  , RAJESH B GOTEKAR  , SREELAKSHMI PILLAI
Published: July 2024

Objectives: Objectives of this study are to find indications for the scleral-fixated intraocular lens, to measure visual acuity in patients with scleral-fixated intraocular lens postoperatively and also to note the complications of scleral-fixated intraocular lens intra and postoperatively.
Materials and Methods: The study includes 36 eyes of 36 aphakic patients presenting to Ophthalmology department between November 2019 and April 2021 after obtaining Institutional Ethical Committee Clearance. Informed and written consent were obtained from each patient included in the study. Goldmann applanation tonometer was used to record IOP for all cases preoperatively. Detailed ophthalmic examination was done on slit-lamp biomicroscope and best corrected visual acuity was recorded. Keratometry was done using an autorefractokeratometer. The axial length of the eye was calculated with the help of A scan biometry in aphakic mode. IOL power was then calculated with the SRK T formula using 118.2 as A constant for SFIOL. Patients underwent anterior vitrectomy followed by scleral fixation intraocular lens implantation by Gabor’s technique after the detailed preoperative examination. The postoperative examination was done on day 1, day 7, at 1 month, and at 3 months, and the findings were noted.
Result: Out of 36, 25 (69%) patients were having surgical aphakia due to complications of cataract surgery. 5 (14%) patients were having aphakia due to trauma to the eye and 6 (17%) patients were having spontaneous dislocation of lens. Good visual outcome was observed postoperatively. Improvement in BCVA to 6/18 or more was observed in all 36 (100%) patients at the end of 1 month. Corneal edema, AC flare, vitreous hemorrhage, and increase in intraocular pressure were some of the complications that were noted in the immediate postoperative period. However, all the complications had resolved at the end of 1 month.
Conclusion: From this study, we can conclude that combined anterior vitrectomy and scleral-fixated sutured PCIOL implantation is an effective and safe procedure to correct aphakia in eyes without adequate capsular support. It provides excellent visual outcome with less postoperative complications. Furthermore, it is a superior alternative to ACIOLs and iris-fixated IOLs as it decreases the complications such as bullous keratopathy, UGH syndrome, iritis, and CME.
STUDY OF THE PHYSIOLOGICAL ROLE OF STREBLUS ASPER AS A CHEMOPREVENTIVE AGENT ON HUMAN PROSTATE CANCER (DU-145) CELL LINE
Authors: JAHAN SARDER MOHAMMAD SHAHRIAR , KABIR SHAYLA , JINATRAHANA  , SAZIANOWSHIN  , SALAM SABIA , ISLAM JAHIDUL
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study aims to explore the chemopreventive potential of Streblus asper extracts against prostate cancer cells. Specifically, it seeks to assess the efficacy of these extracts in inducing apoptosis and inhibiting cell proliferation within these cancer cells.
Methods: The inhibitory effects of S. asper extracts were evaluated using the TBEA technique to determine the IC50 values. Morphological changes were indicative of apoptosis, such as cell shrinkage, rounding, vacuolization, formation of apoptotic bodies, membrane blebbing, and cell elongation were observed following treatment. An 8-day cell proliferation assay was conducted to examine the effects on prostate cancer cell line proliferation. In addition, the safety of S. asper root extracts was assessed in vitro using a Mouse fibroblast cell line to ensure no cytotoxic effects were present on normal cells.
Results: Streblus asper extracts demonstrated a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of prostate cancer cells, with no observed cytotoxicity on normal Mouse fibroblast cell lines. The results from the TBEA technique confirmed the extract’s potency, with noticeable morphological changes supporting the induction of apoptosis in the treated cancer cells.
Conclusion: The findings from this study offer promising insights into the potential of S. asper extracts as chemopreventive agents against prostate cancer. By exhibiting significant inhibitory effects on cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis without harming normal cells, S. asper presents a viable, natural alternative in the fight against prostate cancer. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to fully elucidate its therapeutic potential and application in cancer prevention strategies.
A PROSPECTIVE STUDY OF DISPLACED MID-SHAFT CLAVICLE FRACTURES TREATED WITH INTRAMEDULLARY TITANIUM ELASTIC NAIL SYSTEMS
Authors: A ANANTH , PRAKASH RAVI
Published: July 2024

Objective: Clavicle fractures are common injuries accounting for 2.6 to 4.0% of all fractures. It has been previously published that mid-third fractures constitute approximately 80% of all clavicle fractures. The two predominantly used procedures that are the current trend in the operative management of midshaft clavicle fractures are open reduction & plating; and intramedullary nailing through minimal access. This study evaluated the efficacy of the Titanium Elastic Nail system (TENS), a minimally invasive technique, in treating midshaft clavicle fractures.
Methods: From December 2022 to January 2024 with twenty-four patients who had plain radiographs showing a midshaft clavicle fracture, this study was conducted in our hospital which is a tertiary care facility. Patients were reviewed at 2 and 6 weeks,3 and 6 months after surgery. Nails were removed after 6 months of surgery.
Results: The average operative time duration was 37.1 minutes (Range: 25 - 60 minutes). 18 of the 24 patients had closed reduction while 6 patients (25%) patients required open reduction of their fracture. All the patients achieved clinical union at an average of 5.3 weeks (Range: 4-6 weeks) and radiological union at an average of 10.47 weeks (Range: 6 - 12 weeks). The patients were followed up postoperatively and CONSTANT and MURLEY scores were calculated at 6 weeks with an Excellent CONSTANT score in 20 patients (83.3%).
Conclusion: Besides being early mobilization, minimally invasive, and requiring less time during surgery, TENS fixation offers superior cosmetic results. For this reason, the preferred course of treatment for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures is titanium elastic nails.
SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION IN COMORBID METABOLIC SYNDROME AND VITILIGO: A REGRESSION ANALYSIS OF RISK FACTORS!
Authors: SINGH PAVAN K , KAUSHIK KANISHK U , BHARGAVA RAHUL
Published: July 2024

Objective: Systemic inflammatory markers are often raised in comorbid metabolic syndrome (MetS) and vitiligo. Why some patients with vitiligo develop MetS while others do not remain to be elucidated. This study aimed to identify independent risk factors for MetS development in vitiligo patients.
Methods: In this prospective study, disease characteristics (disease duration, severity, and subtype) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were compared between vitiligo patients (n=100) with and without MetS. Multivariate logistic regression of potential risk factors for MetS was done after adjusting for potential confounders (such as waist circumference, basal metabolic rate, serum lipids, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar). The performance of these parameters (hs-CRP, age, disease duration, and severity) in predicting MetS development was ascertained by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).
Results: Vitiligo patients with MetS had a significantly longer (p<0.001) disease duration as compared to those without MetS (56±16 versus 14±12 months). On regression analysis, inflammatory markers (hs-CRP) had significantly higher odds (odds ratio [OR]=5.1) as compared to demographic factors such as gender (OR=3.1) and disease factors such as disease duration (OR=2.4) and disease severity (OR=1.8) of developing MetS. On ROC curve analysis, the performance of these parameters for MetS was hs-CRP>Vitiligo Area Scoring Index score>disease duration >increasing age (Area under the curve=0.952, 0.905, 0.851, and 0.697, respectively). The cutoff value of hs-CRP was 6.42 ug/mL.
Conclusion: Elevated hs-CRP has the highest predictive value for MetS development in vitiligo. Systemic inflammation may be the driving force for MetS development.
ASSESSING THE EPIDEMICS AND PANDEMICS’ IMPACT ON SUPPLY CHAINS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY
Authors: Andjelković Aleksandra , Stanković Tamara , Janković Milić Vesna
Published: July 2024

Today, supply chains operate in a very uncertain global environment, so one of the basic tasks is to maintain a higher level of resilience. Great threats to the resilience of supply chains, which occur at time intervals, are labelled in literature as health crises. The appearance of diseases, due to their nature may cause epidemics and pandemics’, which can greatly endanger stability and lead to interruptions in supply chain processes. A major problem cited in literature concerning the specifics of such situations relates to the limited ability to predict both the causes and consequences of such actions. Due to that, it is difficult to manage crisis situations, and as a logical consequence, there are immeasurable negative effects. The aim of this paper is to examine the negative effects of various epidemics and pandemics on production in the automotive industry. The analyses were employed with the aim of defining the extent to which an epidemic and a pandemic disrupt production activities in supply chains. In addition, it is important to consider the characteristic of viruses, as well as the differences in the average values of production in the years when the crisis occurred. In order to analyse the hypotheses, the authors used Wilcoxon’s test to check the statistical significance of changes in production levels. To examine the significance of the difference in average changes in production for the duration of the epidemics and the pandemics, the authors used Friedman’s test in SPSS.
WHERE THERE IS A WILL, THERE IS A WAY: THE SOCIAL TEACHING PRACTICES OF PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Kovačević Lepojević Marina , Bukvić Branković Lidija , Popović-Ćitić Branislava , Paraušić Marinković Ana , Trajković Marija
Published: July 2024

The study aimed to examine the implementation of social teaching practices (STP) in primary schools in Serbia during the COVID-19 pandemic. We explored how the flexibility of STP relates to teachers’ socioemotional competencies (SEC), general teaching difficulties during the pandemic, their satisfaction with the education system, and perception of professional future on a sample of 817 teachers. Research findings suggest that those teachers with higher SEC, less teaching difficulties, and those who are more satisfied with the education system and more optimistic about their professional future implement more STPs. Differences in STPs were also found regarding the teachers’ gender, education cycle, and teaching modality. The study indicated that use of STPs by teachers in times of crisis can be empowered with diverse support opportunities through professional development.
HOW FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AFFECTS NATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS: THE CASE OF THE WESTERN BALKAN COUNTRIES
Authors: Janaćković Marko , Petrović-Ranđelović Marija
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between direct foreign investment and the competitiveness of the economies of the Western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia) in the period between 2008 and 2017. The countries of the Western Balkan region were included in the analysis due to the fact that, in the last two decades, there has been a noticeable trend of increasing interest of foreign investors in investing in the countries of the region, both because of their good geographical position and because of the advantages they provide in terms of realising the basic, profit motivation of foreign investors. The research was conducted using the UNCTAD database, the international comparable base of data. First, an analysis of the dynamics of foreign direct investment flows in the countries of the Western Balkan region was performed. In order to examine the relationship between foreign direct investment and national competitiveness, Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were applied. The Granger causality test was performed to assess the degree of influence of direct foreign investment on the competitiveness of the economies of the observed countries. The obtained research results not only contribute to the development of the existing literature on foreign direct investment and national competitiveness but also provide valuable knowledge to economic policy-makers about the possibilities of using the potential of foreign direct investments to improve the competitive and development performance of the national economy.
POLITICAL ORTHODOXY AS A SOURCE OF SOFT POWER IN RUSSIA AND SERBIA
Authors: Vukomanović Milan
Published: July 2024

Balkan states have remained susceptible to Russian influence in the 21st century due to a concurrence of contemporary and historical factors. In Serbia, such factors have contributed to the high favourability of Russia among the general public, despite government leadership attempts to balance between these sentiments and relationships with the West. To best understand these trends, one of the most compelling examples is the role of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) and the Serbian Orthodox Church in serving as forces to strengthen the shared history of these two nations. Since the fall of the Soviet Union, the ROC has served as a vital partner to Putin and to the Russian government in justifying their ideologies, along with the strong transnational presence of the ROC as a soft power. Accordingly, the role of religious institutions as public diplomacy actors is exceedingly important to understand in today’s global setting. For states like Serbia, this presents a setup whereby Russian positions may be shared or reinforced through religious channels. It is, therefore, crucial for scholars, political analysts and public policy makers to better understand the link between religion and public diplomacy, and to formulate policies and programmes that specifically consider activities disseminated by religious institutions.
THE POSSIBILITIES AND LIMITATIONS OF PREVENTIVE ACTION AS A FORM OF OPPOSITION TO THE MOST SEVERE FORMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Authors: Marković Saša , Kolarić Dragana
Published: July 2024

The prevention of domestic violence, timely and effective protection and support for victims, and multi-sector cooperation have become an important strategic direction of the Republic of Serbia since the adoption of the Law on Prevention of Domestic Violence. The authors put forward a hypothesis according to which the change in strategic direction and the emphasis on prevention contribute to: increasing the trust of citizens in the competent state bodies; better protection of victims; and reducing the number of the most serious cases of domestic violence – those that result in death. Using the statistical method, content analysis, and comparative and formal-legal analysis, the paper analyses the data of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Court related to domestic violence for the period between 2019 and 2021. The authors determine that: violence against women in partner relationships is the dominant type of domestic violence; that psychological violence is the most prevalent, occurring in 68% of the cases, followed by physical violence in 41% of the cases, and economic and sexual violence; that more than 1/3 of the possible perpetrators are repeat offenders, i.e. persons on whom emergency measures were previously imposed; that the victims do not participate in the adoption of individual protection plans; and that the death of the victim occurs despite the imposed emergency measures and the response of the competent state authorities. For these reasons, the authors emphasise the importance of protection on multiple tracks, and propose a series of measures and actions that should be taken by the competent state authorities.
El papel de los recursos informáticos en el procesamiento y análisis de datos en la investigación científica
Authors: Monpue Gali
Published: July 2024

Esta nota técnica explora tres recursos informáticos fundamentales para el procesamiento y análisis de datos en la investigación científica: R, Python y Tableau. Se discute cómo estas herramientas se utilizan en diferentes disciplinas científicas y en qué etapas de la investigación son más útiles. R es un lenguaje estadístico que ofrece una amplia gama de funciones para análisis estadístico y visualización de datos. Python, por otro lado, es un lenguaje de propósito general con bibliotecas especializadas en análisis de datos y aprendizaje automático. Finalmente, Tableau es una plataforma de visualización de datos que permite crear gráficos interactivos y paneles de control para comunicar los resultados de la investigación de manera efectiva.