bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Résidence des enfants après la séparation au Québec. Diversité des arrangements et facteurs associés
Authors: Régnier-Loilier Arnaud , Baude Amandine
Published: April 2024

Cet article présente la diversité des arrangements résidentiels après la séparation parentale et examine les caractéristiques associées au partage du temps entre les parents. L’étude s’appuie sur les données de l’Enquête longitudinale auprès des parents séparés et recomposés du Québec conduite en 2018. L’analyse descriptive met d’abord en lumière, sur la base d’un calendrier de 28 nuitées complété par 677 mères et 599 pères, la très grande diversité des organisations résidentielles, avec des transitions entre les deux résidences qui s’opèrent le plus souvent autour du week-end et du mercredi. Un panorama contrasté ressort cependant selon le sexe du parent ayant répondu à l’enquête. L’analyse multivariée permet d’identifier plusieurs facteurs associés aux arrangements résidentiels, tels que le revenu et le niveau d’éducation des parents, leur situation d’activité au moment de la séparation, leur pays de naissance, l’initiateur de la séparation, le contexte relationnel au moment de celle-ci, l’âge et le sexe des enfants. Ainsi, malgré la progression de la résidence partagée au cours des dernières décennies au Québec, d’importants contrastes demeurent quant aux modalités de résidence des enfants après la séparation.
L’organisation, l’élément clé pour un coaching efficace
Authors: Hackel Megan , Samson Irène , Lallier Beaudoin Marie-Claude
Published: April 2024

Les organisations consacrent en moyenne entre 1 et 5 % de leur budget annuel au développement de leurs employés. Pour de nombreuses entreprises, le coaching représente la méthode d’apprentissage tout indiquée. Mais comment s’assurer que cette démarche connaisse du succès ?
On the exponential decay of a Balakrishnan-Taylor plate with strong damping
Authors: Hajjej Zayd
Published: April 2024

In this manuscript, we study a thin and narrow plate equation that models the deck of a suspension bridge that is subject to a Balakrishnan-Taylor damping and a strong damping. First, by using the Faedo Galerkin method, we prove the existence of both global weak and regular solutions. Second, we prove the exponential stability of the energy for regular solutions by combining the multiplier method and a well-known result of Komornik.
Convex-structured covariance estimation via the entropy loss under the majorization-minimization algorithm framework
Authors: Chen Chen , Chen Xiangbing , Ai Yi
Published: April 2024

We estimated convex-structured covariance/correlation matrices by minimizing the entropy loss corresponding to the given matrix. We first considered the estimation of the Weighted sum of known Rank-one matrices with unknown Weights (W-Rank1-W) structural covariance matrices, which appeared commonly in array signal processing tasks, e.g., direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation. The associated minimization problem is convex and can be solved using the primal-dual interior-point algorithm. However, the objective functions (the entropy loss function) can be bounded above by a sequence of separable functions—we proposed a novel estimation algorithm based on this property under the Majorization-Minimization (MM) algorithmic framework. The proposed MM algorithm exhibited very low computational complexity in each iteration, and its convergence was demonstrated theoretically. Subsequently, we focused on the estimation of Toeplitz autocorrelation matrices, which appeared frequently in time-series analysis. In particular, we considered cases in which the autocorrelation coefficient decreased as the time lag increased. We transformed the Toeplitz structure into a W-Rank1-W structure via special variable substitution, and proposed an MM algorithm similar to that for the W-Rank1-W covariance estimation. However, each MM iteration involved a second-order cone programming SOCP problem that must be resolved. Our numerical experiments demonstrated the high computational efficiency and satisfactory estimation accuracy of the proposed MM algorithms in DOA and autocorrelation matrix estimation.
New technique for solving the numerical computation of neutral fractional functional integro-differential equation based on the Legendre wavelet method
Authors: Muthuselvan Kanagaraj , Sundaravadivoo Baskar , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Alshammari Fahad Sameer
Published: April 2024

The aim of this work is to solve a numerical computation of the neutral fractional functional integro-differential equation based on a new approach to the Legendre wavelet method. The concept of fractional derivatives was examined in the sense of Caputo. The properties of the Legendre wavelet and function approximation were employed to determine the approximate solution of a given dynamical system. Moreover, the error estimations and convergence analysis of the truncated Legendre wavelet expansion for the proposed problem were discussed. The validity and applicability of this proposed technique to numerical computation were shown by illustrative examples. Eventually, the results of this technique demonstrate its great effectiveness and reliability.
Mathematical and numerical analysis for PDE systems modeling intravascular drug release from arterial stents and transport in arterial tissue
Authors: Feng Xiaobing , Jiang Tingao
Published: April 2024

This paper is concerned with the PDE (partial differential equation) and numerical analysis of a modified one-dimensional intravascular stent model. It is proved that the modified model has a unique weak solution by using the Galerkin method combined with a compactness argument. A semi-discrete finite-element method and a fully discrete scheme using the Euler time-stepping have been formulated for the PDE model. Optimal order error estimates in the energy norm are proved for both schemes. Numerical results are presented, along with comparisons between different decoupling strategies and time-stepping schemes. Lastly, extensions of the model and its PDE and numerical analysis results to the two-dimensional case are also briefly discussed.
Bifurcation analysis in a modified Leslie-Gower predator-prey model with fear effect and multiple delays
Authors: Yao Shuo , Yang Jingen , Yuan Sanling
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we explored a modified Leslie-Gower predator-prey model incorporating a fear effect and multiple delays. We analyzed the existence and local stability of each potential equilibrium. Furthermore, we investigated the presence of periodic solutions via Hopf bifurcation bifurcated from the positive equilibrium with respect to both delays. By utilizing the normal form theory and the center manifold theorem, we investigated the direction and stability of these periodic solutions. Our theoretical findings were validated through numerical simulations, which demonstrated that the fear delay could trigger a stability shift at the positive equilibrium. Additionally, we observed that an increase in fear intensity or the presence of substitute prey reinforces the stability of the positive equilibrium.
Incarceration's lingering health effects on Black men: impacts persist into retirement
Authors: Assari Shervin
Published: April 2024

Background

The unique challenges Black men face within the criminal justice system underscore structural and systemic factors driving widespread inequalities. The long-term effects of these challenges on economic, health, and social outcomes as individuals transition to retirement remain poorly understood, highlighting a critical gap in our knowledge of life trajectories long after justice system involvement.

Objectives

This study investigated the enduring health impacts of incarceration on Black men, particularly focusing on the transition into retirement. It aimed to explore the influence of race and gender on experiences of incarceration before age 50, and how such experiences affected self-rated health during the retirement transition.

Methods

Utilizing data from the Health and Retirement Study, which followed individuals aged 50–59 for up to thirty years, this research examined the interplay of race, gender, incarceration history, and self-rated health during the retirement transition. Logistic regression and path modeling were employed for data analysis.

Results

Logistic regression results indicated that being Black, male, and having lower educational attainment significantly increased the likelihood of experiencing incarceration before the age of 50 (p < 0.05). This suggests that Black men with lower levels of education are at the greatest risk of incarceration. The path model revealed a correlation between incarceration experiences before age 50 and poorer self-rated health at the time of retirement.

Conclusion

The findings highlighted the disproportionately high risk of incarceration among Black men, especially those with lower educational attainment, and its persistent negative impacts on health decades later, including during the transition into retirement. Addressing structural racism and the mass incarceration of Black men is crucial for achieving racial health equity as individuals retire.
De l’industrie de la confection au musée de la Chemiserie et de l’Élégance masculine d’Argenton-sur-Creuse (Indre)
Authors: Gaillard Nathalie
Published: April 2024

Né de la volonté d’un ancien industriel, Jean-René Gravereaux, le musée de la Chemiserie et de l’Élégance masculine sauvegarde et transmet un patrimoine représentatif d’une activité industrielle créée au xixe siècle : la confection de chemises pour hommes. Ouvert en 1993, il se situe dans le premier atelier mécanique de lingerie créé par Charles Brillaud vers 1860. C’est au second étage du musée, sous les toits en shed, qu’un atelier de chemiserie a été reconstitué : on y découvre les grandes étapes de fabrication, le bruit des machines à coudre et autres outils, l’inconfort des conditions de travail. Les témoignages d’anciennes ouvrières, les documents d’archives et les photographies donnent vie au matériel, aujourd’hui inerte. S’intéresser aux chemisières, c’est aussi raconter l’histoire d’un vêtement, celle de la chemise, son évolution, son rôle social, sa symbolique. C’est également replacer ce vêtement dans un contexte plus large, celui de l’évolution de la mode masculine.
The Future of Fashion Heritage is Digital
Authors: Bloemberg Ninke
Published: April 2024

Virtual fashion shows and digital cover models: the dividing line between the physical and the virtual world is increasingly blurred. How does it offer opportunities for vulnerable textiles and clothing in museum collections? Is it providing a chance to breathe new life into fashion heritage and the craft and knowledge associated with them? Could these developments be the convergence of the worlds of physical and digital design and add value to each other? This article explores several possibilities of ways that new developments and digital techniques synergise with a museum collection.
L’avenir du patrimoine de la mode est numérique
Authors: Bloemberg Ninke
Published: April 2024

Défilés de mode virtuels et cover girls numériques : la frontière entre mondes physique et virtuel est de plus en plus floue. Quelles opportunités ces changements représentent-ils pour les textiles et les vêtements fragiles conservés dans les collections des musées ? Permettent-ils d’insuffler une vie nouvelle au patrimoine de la mode ainsi qu’aux techniques et aux savoir-faire qui lui sont associés ? Cette évolution témoigne-t-elle de la convergence entre conception physique et numérique, domaines qui s’apporteraient mutuellement une valeur ajoutée ? Cet article explore plusieurs expériences ayant mis en synergie œuvres d’une collection muséale et avancées numériques et technologiques.
L’appropriation culturelle dans le secteur de la mode
Authors: Gavelli Clara
Published: April 2024

Les cas de copies de dessins et modèles traditionnels par les entreprises du secteur de la mode sont nombreux et dénoncés médiatiquement à travers la notion d’appropriation culturelle. En droit, ce phénomène pose la question de la reconnaissance d’un rapport de propriété entre les expressions culturelles traditionnelles et les communautés qui les perpétuent. Si les motifs et coupes de vêtements traditionnels font partie du « patrimoine culturel immatériel », le lien juridique avec leurs communautés culturelles demeure artificiel. Pour pallier l’insuffisance de ce statut juridique, le droit d’auteur se présente à première vue comme un mode de régulation des échanges culturels pertinent, en raison de sa double nature patrimoniale et morale. Mais, une propriété culturelle collective peine à se concevoir dans notre système juridique. Les difficultés à étendre ce modèle à ce type de créations ainsi que les enjeux économiques et culturels qui sous-tendent la notion d’appropriation culturelle incitent à un décentrement du regard afin de réévaluer non seulement nos représentations symboliques, mais aussi nos rapports juridiques aux choses.
La mode par ses métiers : histoire et savoir des fabricants du second xixe siècle
Authors: Hammen Émilie
Published: April 2024

Au cours de la seconde moitié du xixe siècle, alors que création et consommation de mode se réinventent par le prisme de l’industrie, on observe une abondante production de textes visant à en éclairer l’histoire. Archéologues et peintres se focalisent pourtant encore largement sur les costumes de l’Ancien Régime, jugés plus intéressants que les vêtements contemporains, tandis que l’idée de haute couture et celle de son créateur démiurge ne sont encore qu’en germe. C’est dès lors l’occasion pour des hommes de métiers, entrepreneurs et inventeurs, de prendre en charge ce récit historique afin de doter la mode moderne d’un passé et d’un patrimoine.Cet article propose de revenir sur les enjeux et les contextes propres à cette écriture à travers trois de ces figures : Natalis Rondot, Auguste Dusautoy et Ernest Lefébure, respectivement associés aux mondes du textile, de la confection et de la dentelle. En croisant leurs savoirs pratiques et théoriques, des musées aux expositions d’art industriels, quelle histoire de la mode livrent-ils ? L’abordant par ses métiers, ses matériaux, gestes et outils, un chapitre marquant et singulièrement méconnu de son historiographie se recompose ainsi.
Engineered Cementitious Composites for Diverse Applications
Authors: Dhanya K. R.
Published: April 2024

Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) are developed for the wide applications of construction industry and it is considered as a special form of high-performance fiber-reinforced cementitious composites. This material exhibits excellent shear capacity, capable of controlling crack-width and better damage tolerance capacity. ECC enhances the basic properties of materials thereby increasing the structural performance, exhibits some unique properties, that cannot be replaced by conventional concrete and on implementing ECC structures for desired applications, shows superior performance. The chapter describes the importance and benefits of ECC materials in the field of construction, current uses, and future scope. Conventional concrete material shows low tensile strength as well as strain capacity. ECC is a potential material to exhibit superior durability performances as well as structural viability.
Processos formativos de professores de educação física: reflexões com base nas histórias de vida
Authors: Costa Catia Silvana da , Monteiro Maria Iolanda
Published: April 2024

Com base na temática das histórias de vida, este artigo, recorte de uma pesquisa de Doutorado, objetiva analisar trajetórias formativas de professores de Educação Física aposentados. A pesquisa, desenvolvida no período de 2014 a 2017, utilizou-se de entrevistas em profundidade e abertas e análise documental. O processo de construção dos temas de análise considerou os próprios dados - referentes aos saberes da docência que emergiram das trajetórias extraescolares, escolares, formativas e profissionais dos professores - e tornou real a possibilidade de apreensão de várias histórias em uma mesma história de vida. Para fazer o recorte, apresentamos reflexões subsidiadas pelos elementos da vida extraescolar, escolar e da formação profissional dos participantes. Os resultados retratam as situações vivenciadas pelos participantes e como essas situações foram por eles definidas, bem como contribuem para a compreensão da realidade docente por meio da análise de suas histórias de vida. Dentre alguns resultados, afirmamos que os elementos identificados permitem uma reflexão a respeito dos saberes que emergiram das diferentes trajetórias dos professores aposentados. Esses saberes devem ser considerados nos cursos de formação inicial em Educação Física com foco na atuação profissional, também, nos anos iniciais. Igualmente, favorecem as políticas públicas de formação docente, uma vez que foram elucidados com base nas contribuições das histórias de vida e da Educação Física.
CONHECIMENTO DOS CIRURGIÕES DENTISTAS DA ATENÇÃO BÁSICA DE SAÚDE SOBRE AS MANIFESTAÇÕES BUCAIS DAS INFECÇÕES SEXUALMENTE TRANSMISSÍVEIS
Authors: Lazzarin Helen Cristina , Machado de Cristo Carolina , Fideli Kassab Karina
Published: April 2024

As manifestações bucais podem ser o primeiro sinal e sintoma decorrente de alterações sistêmicas das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis (IST). Por isso, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o conhecimento dos cirurgiões dentistas (CD) da atenção básica de saúde sobre as manifestações bucais das IST. Foi realizado um estudo transversal por meio de um questionário contendo 15 questões objetivas com 42 cirurgiões dentistas do município de Cascavel - PR. O questionário continha perguntas tanto de caráter pessoal quanto sobre as manifestações orais das infecções sexualmente transmissíveis. Nas questões sobre as manifestações bucais, foram investigados quanto às características das lesões fundamentais e capacidade de diagnóstico. Grande parte dos cirurgiões dentistas (71,4%) considerou seu conhecimento sobre o tema mediano. Quando indagados sobre características de mancha ou mácula 90,4% responderam corretamente à questão. A maioria (92,8%) dos CD conhece as principais infecções sexualmente transmissíveis manifestadas na cavidade bucal. Quando se trata de paciente portador do vírus da imunodeficiência humana (HIV) ou soro positivo, 80,95% dos profissionais são capazes de reconhecer as lesões mais frequentes. Já nas questões de cunho pessoal, predominou de 01 a 10 anos de formação profissional (35,7%). No quesito especialidade, 57,1% se enquadram como clínico geral, e 100% dos entrevistados atuam na rede pública. Além disso, quando indagados sobre a conduta ao examinar um paciente, grande parte dos entrevistados (40,5%) realizam anamnese, exame completo e biópsia, se necessário. Conclui-se que a maioria dos profissionais obteve um bom índice de conhecimento a respeito das lesões bucais das IST.
AVALIAÇÃO MORFOLÓGICA INTESTINAL E HEPÁTICA EM RATOS OBESOS EFEITOS DO EXTRATO DAS FOLHAS DE Moringa oleifera
Authors: Russo Duarte Ana Luiza , Delatorre Branquinho Nayra Thais , Bergamasco Rosangela , Do Nascimento Brito Márcia , Marçal Natali Maria Raquel
Published: April 2024

A obesidade é um problema grave de saúde pública, associada ao desenvolvimento de várias comorbidades. A Moringa oleifera é um fitoterápico conhecido por propriedades químicas que podem contribuir para o controle da obesidade através da redução do perfil lipídico e a inflamação hepática. O objetivo desse trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da utilização de solução aquosa de M. oleifera (200mg/Kg de massa corporal) por 60 dias, como alternativa terapêutica para a obesidade provocada pela ingestão de dieta rica em carboidratos simples (RCS) mediante análise morfológica hepática e jejunal de ratos Wistar. Foram constituídos os grupos: controle água (CC): alimentação com dieta padrão e gavagem gástrica com água filtrada; controle Moringa (CM): alimentação com dieta padrão e gavagem gástrica de Moringa; obeso água (OB): alimentação com dieta RCS e gavagem gástrica com água filtrada; obeso Moringa (OM): alimentação com dieta RCS e gavagem gástrica com Moringa. Aos 150 dias, após eutanásia, amostras de fígado e jejuno foram fixadas para processamento histológico e coloração com HE para análises morfológicas e morfométricas, e reação histoquímica PAS para quantificação de células caliciformes e glicogênio tecidual.  A administração oral de M. oleifera em ratos obesos reduziu a massa corporal e no fígado reduziu a área dos hepatócitos com aumento do número celular e aumento do percentual de glicogênio tecidual. No jejuno, a M. oleífera reduziu a espessura das túnicas e parede intestinal e o índice de células caliciformes, que se encontrava aumentado nos grupos obesos, sugerindo melhora na absorção de nutrientes e defesa intestinal.
Tertiary care de-addiction centre patients with substance dependence syndrome: A study of sociodemographic profile, sero prevalence of hepatitis B, hepatitis C, human immuno deficiency virus, and psychiatric co-morbidity
Authors: Jhajharia A. , Arora P.
Published: April 2024

Objective: In India, the epidemic of substance misuse among young people has grown alarmingly severe over the past few years. These patients continue to spread the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) at an alarming pace on a global scale. Co-morbidity between psychiatric diseases and substance use disorders has recently gained significant policy attention. The current study sought to determine the prevalence of psychiatric co-morbidity, HIV, HBV, and HCV infection among individuals with substance use disorders.Material and methods: The present cross-sectional study was tertiary care Drug De-addiction Centre based study in which their sero-prevalence of anti-HCV, anti-HIV antibodies and HBsAg antigen were determined along with psychiatric co-morbidity among 100 consenting patients of substance dependence syndrome. Pre structured psychiatric thesis, socio demographic performa, self reporting questionare 20 and MINI were applied to study the abovesaid factors. The data was evaluated using Microsoft Office Excel worksheet.Results: The majority 60.0% of patients had single substance dependence. Out of that maximum had opioid dependence 86.7% followed by alcohol dependence 8.3%. 30 (30.0%) patients were reactive for any of three viral markers and 70 (70%) patients were non-reactive. Regarding psychiatric co-morbidity 29.0% patients of substance dependence syndrome had co-morbid psychiatric illness as per MINI scale.Conclusions: Thus, the findings of this study will contribute to the development of effective intervention programs to stop the spread of  HIV, HBV, HCV, and psychiatric disorder among this population.
Brief psychological intervention to reduce psychological distress among pre-operative cancer patients: A randomized, single-blind, two arm, parallel group-controlled trial in a selected tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka
Authors: Alles P. S. , Alagiyawanna D. , Seneviwickrama M. , Nanayakkara S. , Kariyawasam M. , Pathirana A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Psychological distress among pre-operative cancer patients interferes with treatment outcomes. The objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a 3-week brief psychological intervention versus routine care on reducing psychological distress among newly diagnosed cancer patients awaiting surgery.Methods: A randomized, single-blind, two arm, parallel groupcontrolled trial was conducted among 88 (intervention=46, control=42) newly diagnosed cancer patients awaiting surgery at Colombo South Teaching Hospital. The primary outcome, psychological distress, was assessed using HADS (cut-off 8) at baseline and 3-weeks later. Secondary outcomes assessed were satisfaction on knowledge and care they received and the physical well-being. Comparisons were made using McNemar’s Chi-Square at p<0.05 based on intention to treat. Effects measures used are odds ratios (OR) with 95% CI and number needed to treat (NNT).Results: The prevalence of anxiety and depression at baseline was 90.91% and 89.77%. Intervention significantly lowered anxiety [intervention 30.43% vs control 69.50%, OR=0.20 (95% CI 0.08, 0.49), p=0.0004]. Depression failed to show a significant reduction [67.6% vs 78.4%, OR=0.53 (95% CI 0.22, 1.28), p=0.1592]. NNT to avert one case of anxiety is 3 (95% CI 1.73, 5.18). Satisfaction on care received is the only secondary outcome that showed a statistically significant association: intervention 36.96% vs. control 14.28% [OR=0.28 (95% CI 0.10-0.81), p=0.0057].Conclusions: The brief psychological intervention was effective in reducing anxiety among newly diagnosed cancer patients. This simple and brief psychological intervention could be recommended for all new cancer patients awaiting surgical interventions. This trial was registered in the Sri Lanka clinical trial registry on 14.10.2021. The registration number is SLCTR/2021/028. The protocol is available at the Sri Lanka Clinical Trial Registry website. The Universal Trial Number (UTN) is U1111-1269-2819.
Prevalence and associated factors of burnout among doctors working in hospitals with COVID-19 treatment units in Anuradhapura district, Sri Lanka during COVID-19 pandemic: a descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Rambukwella G. U. , Ediriweera D. , Isuru A.
Published: April 2024

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has caused enormous burden on the already compromised health system, particularly in remote areas of country. Evaluation of the rate of burnout among doctors working in COVID-19 units is important for planning interventions.Aims: To estimate the prevalence and associated factors of burnout among doctors working in hospitals with COVID-19 treatment units in Anuradhapura district.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among doctors working in hospitals with COVID-19 treatment units in Anuradhapura district of Sri Lanka during third wave of the pandemic. Calculated sample size was 383. Self-administered data collection form designed as an online and printed forms. Burnout was assessed using Professional Fulfilment Index. Prevalence rates and associated factors for burnout were evaluated, and the binary logistic regression method was used to identify the risk factors of burnout.Results: Prevalence of burnout was 41.6% (95%CI: 36.6-46.7). Binary logistic regression analysis showed lack of professional fulfilment (OR=2.79, 95%CI: 1.69-4.65,p=0.0001), excessive workload (OR=3.87, 95%CI: 2.30-6.62, p=0.0000), lack of psychological support from services (OR=1.86, 95%CI:1.07-3.30, p=0.0300), lack of psychological support from family (OR=1.95,95%CI: 1.14-3.37, p=0.0159), being an intern house officer (OR=4.06,95%CI:1.27-13.45,p=0.0193), and less number of years of work experience (OR=3.52, 95%CI :1.54-8.62,p=0.0040) as risk factors for developing burnout in this study population.Conclusions: The prevalence of burnout was high among doctors working in hospitals with COVID-19 units in rural Sri Lanka. Addressing this important issue is vital to improve the quality of life of doctors and the services they rendered during any crisis situations such as COVID-19 pandemic.
When seizures speak: A case of epilepsy presenting with complex multimodal hallucinations
Authors: Abayawickrama H. M. T. S. , Ratnatunga S. S. , Arachchi D. N. K.
Published: April 2024

Epilepsy is known to induce psychiatric manifestations like mood disturbances, anxiety, and psychosis. Seizures originating in specific brain areas, particularly the temporal lobes, can lead to psychiatric symptoms without associated motor activity characteristic of epilepsy. We report a patient with intractable epilepsy presenting with complex auditory, visual, and olfactory hallucinations.
Cognitive impairment and functional outcomes in schizophrenia: a narrative review
Authors: Wanniarachchi N. U. , Senanayake S. M.
Published: April 2024

No abstract available
Cesarean section at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi, northeast Nigeria: a 3-year retrospective review
Authors: Musa Atiku , Dattijo Lamaran  Makama , Aminu Muhammad Baffa , Palmer Henry O. , Audu Bala Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Cesarean section is the most common major surgical procedure in obstetrics, and its rate has increased globally in recent years. The aim of the study was to determine the incidence, indications, maternal/perinatal outcome, and complications of cesarean section in the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital Bauchi (ATBUTH), Bauchi, Nigeria. The study reviewed all cesarean sections performed between July 1, 2016, and June 30, 2019. Case notes of patients and records from the labor ward, theater, and special care baby unit were used to obtain data, which included age, parity, booking status, type of cesarean section, maternal morbidity and mortality, and the perinatal outcome. Analysis was done using SPSS version 21, and data was presented in tables and charts in addition to ratios, proportions, and percentages. A total of 10,705 deliveries were conducted during the review period, of which 3,380 were cesarean births, given a cesarean section rate of 31.57%. Emergency cesarean sections accounted for 67.72%, and 81.39% of all the sections were primary cesarean sections. Only 3,501 parturients (32.70%) were booked. Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP), 733 (29.17), were the most common indication for the operation, followed by repeat cesarean section, 373(25.37%). About 87.86% of the fetuses were delivered alive, while 12.14% were stillborn and had an early neonatal death. Anemia was the most common postoperative complication seen in 13% of the women who had a cesarean delivery. The most debilitating complication was vesicovaginal fistula which occurred in eight patients (0.24%). The maternal mortality and perinatal mortality rates were 580/100,000 live births and 121.42/1000 babies, respectively, during the review period. The study showed a high rate of cesarean section in ATBUTH. The commonest indication was HDP, and anemia was the significant post-operative complication.
The incidences of nausea and vomiting after general anesthesia with remimazolam versus sevoflurane: a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yoo Yeong Min , Park Jae Hong , Lee Ki Hwa , Yi Ah Hyeon , Kim Tae Kyun
Published: April 2024

Background: Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) refers to nausea and vomiting that occurs within 24-h after surgery or in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). Previous studies have reported that the use of remimazolam, a newer benzodiazepine (BDZ) hypnotic, for anesthesia results in less PONV. In this study, we compared the rate of PONV between sevoflurane and remimazolam after general anesthesia.Methods: In this prospective randomized controlled trial, participants aged 20–80 years who underwent elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy or hemicolectomy were randomized to either the remimazolam or sevoflurane group. The primary outcome was PONV incidence for 24-h after surgery. Secondary outcomes comprised of PONV at 30-min post-surgery, postoperative additional antiemetic use, and Quality of Recovery-15 (QOR-15) score at 24-h postoperatively.Results: Forty patients were enrolled in the study. The remimazolam group exhibited significantly lower rates of PONV for 24-h after surgery than did the sevoflurane group (remimazolam group vs. sevoflurane group; 5% vs. 45%, P = 0.003, respectively). The use of dexamethasone, a rescue antiemetic administered within 24 h of surgery, was substantially lower in the remimazolam group than in the sevoflurane group (0% in remimazolam vs. 30% in sevoflurane, P = 0.020). The QOR-15 score at 24-h after surgery showed no significant difference between the two groups.Conclusions: Compared to sevoflurane, opting for remimazolam as an intraoperative hypnotic may decrease the incidence of PONV and reduce antiemetic use for 24 h after laparoscopic surgery.
Recent Advances in Paediatric Airway Management
Authors: Doctor Jeson Rajan , Phad Urmila , Gholap Supriya
Published: April 2024

Paediatric airway management is continuously evolving with the innovation of new devices and techniques. The paediatric airway presents notable anatomical and physiological challenges. The introduction of a wide array of videolaryngoscopes and flexible intubating video endoscopes in paediatric sizes has made airway management safer. In addition, second-generation supraglottic airways are increasingly utilised both independently and as a component of hybrid strategies. The introduction of various paediatric airway adjuncts such as Frova introducer, optical stylets and airway exchange catheters has been a valuable addition. Microcuff tubes have proven to be safe for use even in neonates and infants and reduce the number of endotracheal tube exchanges. Apnoeic oxygenation techniques using transnasal humidified rapid insufflation ventilatory exchange help in preventing desaturation during intubation. Point-of-care ultrasound has a multitude of applications in paediatric airway management and is useful technique for the identification of the cricothyroid membrane and assessment of gastric residual volume. Airway assessment and simulation in combination with three-dimensional printing can serve as useful adjuncts in difficult and complicated airways and help in training and skill development and retention. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are in the nascent stages but are continuously evolving and may revolutionise airway assessment in the near future. This narrative review describes the recent advances in airway devices and techniques that have revolutionised paediatric airway management over the past decade.
Airway Ultrasound Findings in a Rare Case of Parry–Romberg Syndrome
Authors: Gupta Bhavna , Jain Gaurav , Chaudhary Ravi , Shrestha Kajal
Published: April 2024

Parry–Romberg syndrome (PRS) is a rare disorder characterised by progressive hemifacial atrophy, along with various neurological and ophthalmological manifestations. Patients with PRS may undergo reconstructive procedures such as fat grafting to address the facial contour deformities. Anaesthesiologists may face significant challenges due to the asymmetric craniofacial structures and the potential presence of neurological deficits, including hemiparesis. We report a case of an 18-year-old male with left-sided hemifacial atrophy and PRS with wasting of one side of the lobe of the thyroid gland who underwent fat grafting under general anaesthesia. The challenges faced during the anaesthetic management of this patient are airway management, positioning and monitoring of neurological deficits. PRS has been reported to coexist with other autoimmune diseases, including thyroid disorders. However, thyroid involvement in PRS is rare. This case used ultrasound to evaluate the airway and assess PRS impact. This case highlights the importance of ultrasound airway, which can serve as an effective tool for identifying associated conditions (like thyroid atrophy) in patients with PRS and can assist in the diagnosis and management of this rare and complex disease.
Transnasal Humidified Rapid-Insufflation Ventilatory Exchange to the Rescue of the Anaesthesiologist in a Difficult Airway Case
Authors: Srikanth Anupama Tripathi , Nair Anita Pramod , Sriramanan Suma , Ashok Sangeetha
Published: April 2024

Airway surgeries pose challenges to the anaesthesiologist due to a potentially difficult airway and shared workspace with the surgeons. Apnoeic oxygenation is a technique to increase apnoea time safely during airway surgeries, which can be achieved with multiple devices, one of which is high-flow nasal oxygen (HFNO). Transnasal humidified rapid-insufflation ventilatory exchange (THRIVE) is one of the modes of delivering HFNO. We present an interesting case report wherein THRIVE was incorporated into successful anaesthetic management of an intratracheal tumour located close to the carina almost obliterating the tracheal lumen.
Patient-specific Effective Dose Estimation from Dose–Length Product in Lung Computed Tomography Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Fallahmohammadi Gholamreza , Nodeh Zeinab Kordzini , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Background:

Computed tomography (CT) imaging has a large portion in the dose of patients from radiological procedures; therefore, accurate calculation of radiation risk estimation in this modality is inevitable. In this study, a method for determining the patient-specific effective dose using the dose–length product (DLP) index in lung CT scan using Monte Carlo (MC) simulation is introduced.

Methods:

EGSnrc/BEAMnrc MC code was used to simulate a CT scanner. The DOSxyznrc simulation code was used to simulate a specific voxelized phantom from the patient’s lungs and irradiate it according to X-ray parameter of routing lung CT scan, and dose delivered to thorax organs was calculated. Three types of phantoms were simulated according to three different body habits (slim, standard, and fat patients) in two groups of men and women. A factor was used to convert the relative dose per particle in MC code to the absolute dose. The dose was calculated in all lung organs, and the effective dose was calculated for all three groups of patient body habits. DLP index and volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) were extracted from the patient’s dose report in the CT scanner. The DLP to effective dose conversion factor (k-factor) for patients with different body habitus was calculated.

Results:

Lung radiation dose in slim, standard, and fat patients in men was 0.164, 0.103, and 0.078 mGy/mAs and in women was 0.164, 0.105, and 0.079 mGy/mAs, respectively. The k-factor in the group of slim patients, especially in women, was higher than in other groups.

Conclusions:

CT scan dose indexes for slim patients are reported to be underestimated in studies. The dose report in CT scan systems should be modified in proportion to the patient’s body habitus, to accurately estimate the radiation risk.
Foreign-body Impaction in Oropharynx Region
Authors: Khan Mohammad Imran , Khare Abhisheik , Arif Khushboo , Nasir Abdullah
Published: April 2024

Fish bone impaction in the oral cavity and oropharynx region involving the palatopharyngeus, tonsillar fossa, base of the tongue, and migration into the gastrointestinal tract has all the possibilities of causing no symptoms or life-threatening outcomes. Foreign-body impaction is very common in adults, especially in coastal areas and the eastern region of the India. The delay in the removal of fish bone can cause serious complications and rarely life-threatening consequences. Radiographs and conventional computed tomography may be needed in migrated fish bone in deeper soft tissue and further downward displacement in the gastrointestinal tract.
Andrographolide Attenuates Noise-Induced Hearing Loss by Ameliorating Cochlear Inflammation
Authors: Li Meng-Hua , Wang Wan-Qi , Zheng Li-Ting , Chen Meng-Bing , Chu Yang , Qiao Miao , Zhang Zuo-Li , Naveena Konduru , Pan Yong , Zhang Yun-Shi , Sun He , Ma Xiao-Hui , Shi Xi
Published: April 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to explore andrographolide’s mechanism of action and its protective effect on noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Materials and Methods:

A mice animal model for NIHL was established through exposure to broadband noise at 120 dB sound pressure level for 4 h. Transcriptomics analysis and pharmacodynamic experiments were carried out.

Results:

Andrographolide enters the inner ear and effectively prevents hearing damage following noise exposure in the mice model for permanent hearing loss. Moreover, treatment with andrographolide inhibited the excessive activation of inflammatory factors in the cochleae of noise-exposed mice.

Conclusion:

Andrographolide might be a promising candidate for auditory protective drug investigation.
Nonlinear enhanced dissipation in viscous Burgers-type equations
Authors: Ghoul Tej-Eddine , Masmoudi Nader , Pacherie Eliot
Published: April 2024

We construct a class of infinite mass functions for which solutions of the viscous Burgers equation decay at a better rate than the solution of the heat equation for the same initial data in this class. In other words, we show an enhanced dissipation coming from a nonlinear transport term. We compute the asymptotic profile in this class for both equations. For the viscous Burgers equation, the main novelty is the construction and description of a time-dependent profile with a boundary layer, which enhances the dissipation. This profile will be stable up to a computable nonlinear correction depending on the perturbation. We also extend our results to other convection–diffusion equations.
Predicting over-the-counter antibiotic use in rural Pune, India, using machine learning methods
Authors: Sawant Pravin Arun , Hiralkar Sakshi Shantanu , Hulsurkar Yogita Purushottam , Phutane Mugdha Sharad , Mahajan Uma Satish , Kudale Abhay Machindra
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES: Over-the-counter (OTC) antibiotic use can cause antibiotic resistance, threatening global public health gains. To counter OTC use, this study used machine learning (ML) methods to identify predictors of OTC antibiotic use in rural Pune, India.METHODS: The features of OTC antibiotic use were selected using stepwise logistic, lasso, random forest, XGBoost, and Boruta algorithms. Regression and tree-based models with all confirmed and tentatively important features were built to predict the use of OTC antibiotics. Five-fold cross-validation was used to tune the models’ hyperparameters. The final model was selected based on the highest area under the curve (AUROC) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and the lowest log-loss.RESULTS: In rural Pune, the prevalence of OTC antibiotic use was 35.9% (95% CI, 31.6 to 40.5). The perception that buying medicines directly from a medicine shop/pharmacy is useful, using antibiotics for eye-related complaints, more household members consuming antibiotics, and longer duration and higher doses of antibiotic consumption in rural blocks and other social groups were confirmed as important features by the Boruta algorithm. The final model was the XGBoost+Boruta model with 7 predictors (AUROC, 0.934; 95% CI, 0.891 to 0.978; log-loss, 0.279) log-loss.CONCLUSIONS: XGBoost+Boruta, with 7 predictors, was the most accurate model for predicting OTC antibiotic use in rural Pune. Using OTC antibiotics for eye-related complaints, higher consumption of antibiotics and the perception that buying antibiotics directly from a medicine shop/pharmacy is useful were identified as key factors for planning interventions to improve awareness about proper antibiotic use.
Enhancing Regenerative Energy Capture in Electric Vehicle: Braking
Performance through Integral Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Direm Chaima , Hartani Kada
Published: April 2024

This article focuses on the development of an active braking control system
tailored for electric vehicles. The essence of this system lies in its ability
to regulate the slip coefficient to optimize traction during braking, thereby
maximizing energy recuperation. In the context of the simulation on enhancing
regenerative energy capture in electric vehicles, the use of integral sliding
mode control (ISMC) as an alternative for regulating braking performance can be
understood through a comparison of two key output variables in braking control
systems: wheel deceleration and wheel slip. Traditionally, wheel deceleration
has been a controlled variable in braking systems, and it is still utilized in
some anti-lock braking systems (ABS). It can be easily measured using a basic
wheel encoder. However, the dynamic performance of wheel deceleration control
may suffer when there are rapid changes in the road surface. On the contrary,
regulating wheel slip offers high robustness from a dynamic perspective. Despite
its robustness, accurately measuring wheel slip poses a challenge as it
necessitates estimating the vehicle speed. Nonetheless, despite this challenge,
controlling wheel slip remains the most suitable option for designing braking
controllers that can adapt to variations in road surface conditions. Therefore,
integrating ISMC into the braking system as an alternative enables more
effective regulation of wheel slip, enhancing the overall performance and
resilience of the braking system, which is particularly crucial in electric
vehicles where optimizing regenerative braking is a significant concern.

The article explores the theoretical dynamics of electric vehicle braking
maneuvers and introduces the concept of an ISMC for managing the slip
coefficient. Utilizing a robust control law in conjunction with this controller
guarantees the exponential convergence of slip error. Afterward, we explore the
visualization and simulation of the braking process performed by the ISMC, as
well as the storage of the recovered energy in a supercapacitor system using
MATLAB/Simulink.
Changes in the terminology and diagnostic criteria of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Implications and opportunities
Authors: Mubarak Muhammed
Published: April 2024

Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a highly prevalent pathological liver disorder. It has many and varied etiologies and has heterogeneous clinical course and outcome. Its proper nomenclature and classification have been problematic since its initial recognition. Traditionally, it was divided into two main categories: Alcohol-associated liver disease and nonalcoholic FLD (NAFLD). Among these, the latter condition has been plagued with nomenclature and classification issues. The two main objections to its use have been the use of negative (non-alcoholic) and stigmatizing (fatty) terms in its nomenclature. Numerous attempts were made to address these issues but none achieved universal acceptance. Just recently, NAFLD has received a new nomenclature from an international collaborative effort based on a rigorous scientific methodology. FLD has been renamed steatotic liver disease (SLD), and NAFLD as metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis was chosen as the replacement terminology for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. This is a significant positive change in the nomenclature and categorization of FLD and will likely have a major impact on research, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of the disease in the future.
“Leaving No One Behind” As a New Motto for the UN System
Authors: Barros Rosanna
Published: April 2024

Educational governance has become increasingly complex due to the emergence of the post-welfare state together with specialised networks acting across nations, such as the recently formed United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Group. In this context, the global circulation of policies, priorities and lifelong learning narratives impacts national agendas through frameworks and diverse multilevel policy instruments. Adopting elements of global governance theory, this article examines the 2017 Shared Framework on Leaving No One Behind and argues that it has served as a milestone in supporting the implementation of the 2030 Agenda on the national level, while contributing to mainstreaming communication and written discourses in all sectors of the educational arena since its publication. The article reflects on aspects of Portugal’s alignment to “Leaving No One Behind” (LNOB) through critical discourse analysis (CDA) of textual evidence in two interrelated national policy documents. The findings show the impact of this global policy-speak on recent Portuguese official documents.