bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interprofessional Collaborative Practice in Professional and Residency Athletic Training Programs: A Report from the Association of Athletic Training Education Research Network
Authors: Hankemeier Dorice A. , Williams Richelle M. , Wilkins Nicole A. , Manspeaker Sarah A. , Clements Chad , Walker Stacy E. , Young Justin , Eberman Lindsey E.
Published: March 2024

Context

Interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) is a required component of athletic training education, yet more needs to be learned about how professional and residency programs integrate IPCP into their curricula.

Objective

Identify current strategies used in the integration, assessment, and quality of IPCP clinical experiences in athletic training programs.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Patients or Other Participants

Forty-two of the 288 (14.6% response rate) invited individuals participated. All reported being faculty members affiliated with a professional or residency athletic training program.

Data Collection and Analysis

The IPCP implementation and assessment was e-mailed to all accredited professional and residency program directors to evaluate: (1) institutional or organizational support for and integration of IPCP; (2) faculty, learner, or preceptor preparation for IPCP engagement; and (3) tools for assessment and quality of IPCP experiences. Survey instrumentation was validated through peer and expert review. Descriptive statistics were calculated for quantitative data, and open coding was used to analyze open-ended questions.

Results

Respondents reported favorable support from their institution or organization (administrative, financial, and organizational structure) to integrate IPCP experiences. The most common methods for IPCP implementation included clinical simulations (n = 22, 22.9%), grand rounds (n = 13, 13.5%), morbidity and mortality conferences (n = 3, 3.1%), journal clubs (n = 6, 6.3%), direct patient care (n = 14, 14.9%), and intentional clinical education experiences (n = 28, 29.2%). Respondents reported formal IPCP training for faculty (n = 7, 16.7%) and learners (n = 23, 54.8%) but not for preceptors (n = 25, 73.5%). While programs assess their learners’ IPCP experiences (n = 25, 59.5%), the quality of those experiences is not formally captured (n = 19, 45.2%).

Conclusion(s)

Interprofessional collaborative practice experiences within athletic training education continue to evolve. As such, in this study, we highlight the need for formalized training in IPCP for faculty, learners, and preceptors. Additionally, program faculty should consider implementing quality assessments of IPCP experiences to assess the quality and degree to which learners experience interprofessional collaboration.
Task Switching in English-Chinese Bilinguals: A Life Span Approach
Authors: Qu Li , Low Joel , Chong Pei Shan , Keren-Happuch F. F. E.
Published: March 2024

The current study investigated the developmental trajectory of 124 English-Chinese Singaporean bilinguals (41 6-9-year-olds, 44 18-26-year-olds, and 39 55-79-year-olds) with the Standard (SD), Total Change (TC), Positive Priming (PP), and Negative Priming (NP) versions of the Computerized Dimensional Change Card Sort task. Tasks were administrated in either English or Chinese. Additionally, participants were tested with both English and Chinese versions of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test. Separate curve fitting indicated that significant quadratic trends appeared in the local switch costs for accuracy only in the SD and the PP versions. Children had significantly larger local switch costs in all the versions compared to young adults and elderly adults, who had similar local switch costs. These findings suggest that bilingualism may slow down the decay of information maintaining, updating, disinhibition, and task set integration in elderly adults. Results imply that bilingual advantage may accumulate through childhood, and be preserved in late adulthood.
Does Tolerance Reflect a More Inclusive Self-Construal? A Comparison of Poland, East and West Germany
Authors: Schachner Maja , Robertson Toby , van de Vijver Fons , Funke Friedrich , Brzezinska Dorota
Published: March 2024

Past research suggests that Poland and Germany differ in the inclusiveness of their “moral universe”, i.e. the breadth of the community to which people apply moral values and rules of fairness (Schwartz, 2007). It seems likely that this difference is reflected in a more or less inclusive definition of one’s ingroup. The present study investigated (1) whether there are indeed differences in ingroup inclusiveness as manifested in differential construals of the self in East and West Germany and Poland and (2) whether those differences are reflected in differences in tolerance. As expected, participants in West Germany had the most inclusive self-construal, followed by participants from East Germany and then Poland – both in terms of their absolute scores on the most inclusive level (being a member of humanity), and in terms of the relative importance of the different levels. A relationship between a more inclusive self-construal and tolerance was observed in West Germany, but not in East Germany and Poland. The results suggest that more inclusive and abstract levels of the self-construal are more closely linked to other abstract constructs such as values rather than a true reflection of people’s ingroup. In countries with a communist past where universal values or the concern for humanity at large have been used for ideological purposes, these values may have lost their original meaning and psychological significance, and are less linked to intergroup attitudes such as tolerance towards immigrants.
The Relationship Between Collectivism and Climate: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Presbitero Alfred , Langford Peter
Published: March 2024

Collectivism is one of the well-researched dimensions of culture that pertains to an individual’s relationship to an in-group. Organisational climate, on the other hand, is predominantly defined as the shared perceptions of employees about their working environment. In spite of the long tradition of both constructs in the literature, the conceptual relationship between collectivism and climate has oftentimes been neglected. This paper explores this relationship by presenting (1) the conceptual overlap between culture and climate; (2) the congruence between collectivism and climate in terms of levels of conceptualisation and analysis; (3) the apparent influence of collectivism on organisational processes and practices that have been the domain of climate studies; and (4) the apparent influence of collectivism on climate outcomes. This paper also offers some recommendations to guide future studies including suggestions to have more empirical investigation to strongly establish the relationship between collectivism and climate, to investigate facets of climate simultaneously, to extend the link between climate and other work outcomes, to engage in multi-level research, and to explore how collectivism influences climate formation and change.
Sevoflurane: an opportunity for stroke treatment
Authors: Xu Jinhui , Ye Yang , Shen Haitao , Li Wen , Chen Gang
Published: March 2024

In developed countries, stroke is the leading cause of death and disability that affects long-term quality of life and its incidence is increasing. The incidence of ischemic stroke is much higher than that of hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic stroke often leads to very serious neurological sequelae, which severely reduces the patients’ quality of life and becomes a social burden. Therefore, ischemic stroke has received increasing attention. As a new type of anesthetic, sevoflurane has a lower solubility, works faster in the human body, and has less impact on the cardiovascular system than isoflurane. At the same time, studies have shown that preconditioning and postconditioning with sevoflurane have a beneficial effect on stroke. We believe that the role of sevoflurane in stroke may be a key area for future research. Therefore, this review mainly summarizes the relevant mechanisms of sevoflurane preconditioning and postconditioning in stroke in the past 20 years, revealing the bright prospects of sevoflurane in stroke treatment.
Cytotoxic Sulfoquinovosyl Glycerols from the Seaweed Sargassum Angustifolium from Persian Gulf
Authors: Sajjadi Seyed Ebrahim , Ghobeishavi Sahar , Yegdaneh Afsaneh
Published: March 2024

Backgrounds:

Seaweeds are an important source of marine organisms that produce a lot of bioactive compounds.

Materials and Methods:

In this research, the seaweed Sargassum angustifolium was collected from Bushehr province of Persian Gulf of Iran. The seaweed was extracted by methanol:ethyl acetate (1:1) using maceration method. The compounds were isolated with different column chromatography and HPLC(High Performance Liquid Chromatography) by silica gel and hexane:ethyl acetate as mobile phase.

Results:

The isolated compounds were elucidated structurally by various 1 and 2 D-NMR and MS spectra. Besides the cytotoxicity test was done against HeLa using standard MTT assay and normal cells.

Conclusion:

It afforded four known sulfoquinovosyl diacylglycerides and fucosterol. Compounds 1-5 showed cytotoxic effects against HeLa and HUVEC cell lines, with IC50 values of 12.2 ± 2.3, 25.8 ± 3.7, 14.9 ± 2.6, 9.8 ± 1.2 μM, and 5.6 ± 1.2, respectively.
Parameatal cyst: A case series with review of literatures
Authors: Pal Diya , Gupta Naveen Kumar
Published: March 2024

Parameatal cyst of the external urinary meatus is a rare entity. In most of the cases, the patients are asymptomatic, and they are presented due to poor cosmesis. Complete surgical excision gives the best result in terms of recurrence. Here, we present a series of four cases of such cysts. The relevant literatures are reviewed.
Deceased donor skin banking for making use of cadaveric skin as a temporary coverage: A life saving option to the patients with extensive burn injuries
Authors: Adhya Abhishek , Sarkar Arindam , Sow Monoranjan , Gayen Soumya
Published: March 2024

Background:

In India, xenografts are not available yet and biosynthetic skin substitutes are unaffordable to most of people. Deceased donor skin could be a lifesaving option for the victims with extensive burn injuries.

The first deceased donor skin bank of eastern India was established at the Department of Plastic Surgery of a tertiary burn referral center, Kolkata on 22nd April 2013 for processing, storage, and utilization of donors’ skin.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the advantages and importance of skin banking in terms of clinical outcomes based on retrospective data.

Materials and Methods:

All deceased skin harvesting was carried out under a hospital setup. Out of 56 skin donations, 17 skin harvesting was performed on the whole donated body and 39 deceased skins were harvested from the brain death declared cases.

The outcome of skin banking and its utilizations was analyzed from our record of ten years.

Result:

From April 2013 to April 2023, only 56 deceased skin donations were received. Number of the skin donations has increased especially in 2018 when the Regional Organ & Tissue Transplantation Organization (ROTTO, Eastern Zone) came forward with a structured organ donation program.

Harvested skins were utilized for 72 patients with extensive burn injuries. We observed partial adherence of cadaveric skin allografts over the wounds for 2–3 weeks. Fifty-five cases were free from infection and the conditions were beneficial for further autologous split-thickness skin grafting (STSG) in the second phase.

Conclusion:

Temporary coverage for an extensive burn injury is extremely important and beneficial, in such cases cadaveric skin could be a potentially lifesaving option with desirable clinical outcomes. Common people are gradually accepting the concept of skin donation after death, however, more awareness programs and proper counseling are essential to make the mission of the skin bank successful. This field is still virgin and open for loads of R&D.
A comparative clinical study of Janu Basti (medicated oil retention over knee) and Matra Basti (medicated oil enema) with Sahachara Taila along with Adityapaka Guggulu on osteoarthritis of knee joint
Authors: Singh Sarvesh Kumar , Rajoria Kshipra , Kumar Amit
Published: March 2024

Background:

Osteoarthritis (OA) of knee is a chronic inflammatory condition of knee joints characterized by pain, swelling, and functional restriction of the joint. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Sandhigata Vata. The two most promising therapies for the Ayurveda management are Janu Basti (medicated oil retention over knee) and Matra Basti (medicated oil enema). The present study was conducted to assess the comparative effect of the two Ayurveda procedure which could assist in clinical decision-making for maximum benefit and minimum discomfort for variable requirements of the patients.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to ascertain the better management among the two therapies. The objective of the study was to assess changes in pain in knee joints through the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and disability through Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC) from baseline to 30th day in both the therapies and compare the effect of the both therapies on pain and disability.

Materials and methods:

In this study, a total of 30 patients having the complaints of OA of knee joint were randomly divided into two groups. Fifteen patients were treated in group A with Janu Basti (external oleation through retention of oil over knee joints for 30 min) with Sahachara Taila along with Adityapaka Guggulu (oral medication) and 15 patients were treated in group B with Matra Basti (enema with medicated oil) with Sahachara Taila along with Adityapaka Guggulu. For the assessment, VAS for pain scoring, WOMAC for disability, Ritchie articular index for tenderness were used, and X-ray were graded on the basis of Kellgren–Lawrence system for OA severity. All the results were calculated by using InStat GraphPad 3 software. For intra-group comparison nonparametric data; “Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed ranks test” and “Paired-t-test” was used. For calculating the inter-group comparison, “Mann–Whitney test” and “unpaired-t-test” was used. All the statistical tests were interpreted as significance at 5% level (P < 0.05).

Results:

There were significant changes in VAS, WOMAC score, and tenderness of the affected joint in both the groups. On intergroup comparison, Matra Basti with Sahachara Taila in group B has provided better relief in Sandhigatavata of Janu Snadhi along with Adityapaka Guggulu.

Conclusion:

The result shows that Ayurvedic management with Matra Basti and Janu Basti along with Adityapaka Guggulu are effective in the management of osteoarthritis (OA) of knee joint. However, Matra Basti along with Adityapaka Guggulu is a better management option than Janu Basti.
Non-invasive brain-computer interfaces effectively improve motor function, sensory function, and activities of daily living in patients with spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Jialin , Liu Quan , Tan Chunqiu , Yang Xueru , Zhao Yinchun , Hu Qixing , Chen Gengbin , Lan Yue
Published: March 2024

After spinal cord injury (SCI), severe motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction of the limbs below the injury level occurs, significantly reducing the patient’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) and quality of life. Brain-computer interface (BCI), as a new rehabilitation intervention, can extract brain signals, bypass the diseased segments, and translate them into commands to control external devices to restore the sensory and motor functions of SCI. However, the current high-quality research evidence for BCI treatment of SCI is insufficient, so this review aims to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of non-invasive BCI training for improving motor, sensory, and ADL in patients with SCI. The BCI-related trial literature was retrieved from seven databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang database, and China Scientific Journals Full Text Database). A total of seven studies (n = 102 patients with SCI) were included for meta-analysis using a fixed-effect model, with effect sizes reported as standardized mean differences. BCI training effectively improve motor function in patients with SCI, especially those in the subacute phase, but to no significant effect in patients with chronic phase. Moreover, the treatment effect of BCI is better when the number of interventions is less than 30 times and a single session lasting longer than 60 minutes is more effective. BCI intervention also showed a positive impact for sensory function and ADL on patients with SCI, and improved quality of life in SCI patients. As a rehabilitation method, BCI has been proven to be effective in improving the motor function of patients with SCI. This provides more choices in future rehabilitation protocols for SCI.
A Rare Case of Double-antibody-positive Renal Vasculitis: Are we in a Hurry to Start Tuberculosis Medicines?
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Kumari Ankita , Mistry Jimit N. , Naredi Mohit , Chander Ayushi
Published: March 2024

Double antibody positive renal vasculitis (anti GBM antibody and pANCA) is a rare form of small vessel vasculitis associated with poor outcome. It is difficult to decide which antibody is the precursor in these cases. We report here such a rare case of double antibody positive renal vasculitis which was started on anti tubercular medicine for a positive mantoux test and interferon gamma release assay. The possible reasons for these antibodies in this may be a complication of COVID-19 infection or vaccine, adverse drug effect of antitubercular medicines or a paradoxical reaction during the tuberculosis treatment. The patient could not survive beyond two months of diagnosis because of rapidly declining renal functions. This case highlights the importance of a meticulous clinical approach, supports two week tuberculosis medicines trial and an early and careful dealing of non responders during tuberculosis treatment especially in patients whose diagnosis is not microbiologically confirmed.
Not All That Wheezes Are Asthma
Authors: Shivashankaran Sanjeev , Thomas Dona Elizebath , Suresh Diya , Chetambath Ravindran
Published: March 2024

Wheeze as a respiratory symptom is commonly described in obstructive airway diseases. However, wheeze can occur in many other diseases apart from airway obstruction. Pulmonary embolism presenting as wheeze is not uncommon and clinician treating diseases with wheezing should be aware of the rarer conditions such as pulmonary embolism. Here, we present the case of a wheezing disorder treated as asthma initially and diagnosed with pulmonary embolism on a detailed workup due to poor clinical response.
A Cross-sectional Study to Determine Pregnancy Outcomes in Transabdominal Ultrasound-guided Embryo Transfer
Authors: Jamwal Vishan Dev Singh , Jamwal Shallu , Sharma Rajesh , Tandon Aseem , Jha Rahul , Acharya Alok P , Bhukya Subhash
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

The success of any in vitro fertilization (IVF) program depends upon a number of factors, including the ovarian stimulation protocol, quality and quantity of gametes obtained, and the embryo transfer (ET) procedure itself. ET procedure is a crucial step in the success of any IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle and has to be mastered and meticulously performed. Ultrasound, being a noninvasive procedure, is used extensively in assisted reproduction and has an important role in ET procedure. Hormonal stimulation of the ovaries causes their enlargement, thereby resulting in variation of the uterine position. There is a paucity of literature documenting this change in uterine position, especially in the Indian population. Therefore, this study was undertaken to find any variation in the uterine position and its impact on pregnancy rates.

Methadology:

In vitro fertilization was done after ovarian stimulation and ET was done on day 3 at 8 cell stage. Biochemical Pregnancy Rates and clinical pregnancy rates were determined for all the ET procedures.

Results:

The anteverted uterus was present in 102 cases, amounting to 77.2%, whereas the remaining 30 cases had retroverted uterus, amounting to 22.8%. The ET procedure in anteverted cases was performed with ease in the majority of the cases. However, three cases had difficult ET. In comparison, the six difficult ETs were reported out of a total of 30 retroverted uterus, amounting to 20% of cases.

Conclusion:

The superiority of ultrasound-guided ET has been proved beyond any doubt as compared to the clinical touch method and it remains the mainstay of ET procedure.
Bilateral Psoas Minor: A Case Report with Clinical, Embryological, and Evolutionary Insights
Authors: Gupta Tanu , Motwani Rohini , Kaliappan Ariyanachi , Mrudula Chandrupatla
Published: March 2024

A 57-year-old female cadaver donated for research contained an accidental bilateral presence of the psoas minor (PMn) muscle. Bilateral PMn is a rare finding but it may be associated with other anatomical variations or abnormalities in the abdomen or pelvis. In some cases, the muscle may be involved in the development of certain medical conditions or may compress nearby structures, leading to symptoms such as pain or discomfort. Overall, bilateral PMn is a relatively uncommon anatomical variation that may be of interest to anatomists or medical professionals. A thorough understanding of this muscle is essential, particularly when making a clinical diagnosis and carrying out procedures in the iliac area. In this case report, we tried to discuss the clinical, embryological, and evolutionary significance of PMn muscle.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Coronavirus Disease-2019 among Geriatric Patients in a Tertiary Care Center in Central Kerala: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Poly Geethu , Varma Beena , Aravind MS , Neelamana Sandhya Kizhakke , Jose Renju , Nair Priya K
Published: March 2024

Context:

Evidence shows that knowledge is important in tackling pandemics. By assessing awareness and knowledge about the coronavirus, more profound insights can be gained into existing public reception and practices, thereby helping to identify attributes that influence the adoption of healthy practices and responsive behavior. Assessing knowledge is important in identifying gaps and strengthening ongoing prevention efforts.

Aims:

The study aimed to investigate the geriatric population’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) during the pandemic spike.

Settings and Design:

The study was designed as a cross-sectional study; a questionnaire was developed regarding the World Health Organization training material for the detection, prevention, response, and control of COVID-19 and was validated by experts in geriatrics and public health.

Materials and Methods:

A prevalidated questionnaire consisting of four sections will be used. The first section consists of demographic data such as age and gender. The second, third, and fourth section will include prevalidated questions to gather information about the patient’s KAP regarding general awareness of COVID-19 among geriatric patients in a tertiary care center in central Kerala. The inclusion criteria included patients of age 60 years and above, patients who are willing to participate in the study, and patients who are willing to give informed consent. The questionnaire was answered by over 199 participants anonymously from November 01, 2021, to February 08, 2022.

Results:

In our study, 199 participants were involved the mean knowledge score was 10.3 ± 1.224. The average attitude score regarding COVID-19 among the participants was 1.9 ± 1.1. The majority of the participants (67.8%) had a poor attitude toward COVID-19. There was a significant difference in average attitude scores according to socioeconomic status. According to the present study, the average correct answer score of the ten questions regarding COVID-19 practice was 6.3 ± 1.4. The majority of participants (75.4%) had moderate practice toward COVID-19. The average practice scores were significant difference among the socioeconomic status.

Conclusions:

The third wave of the pandemic demonstrated good knowledge, positive attitudes, and reasonable practice regarding COVID-19 during the outbreak. The results indicated the need for the health system to attempt to increase the public knowledge of the older people to improve their attitude and practice to deal with the crisis.
Prescribing Cascade Complicating a Geriatric Patient
Authors: Samajdar Shambo Samrat , Mukherjee Shatavisa , Sarkar Sougata , Chatterjee Nandini , Roy Mrinal K. , Pal Jyotirmoy , Tripathi Santanu K. , Joshi Shashank R.
Published: March 2024

Prescribing cascades entail misinterpreting drug-related adverse events as new medical problems, resulting in unnecessary prescriptions and potential harm, especially in the elderly, leading to adverse outcomes like falls, cognitive defects, and increased health-care costs. For geriatric patients with complex medical histories, the intricacies of symptom differentiation and polypharmacy poses further challenges. This report focuses on managing a geriatric patient with multiple conditions, highlighting the risks and complexities of prescribing cascades.
Technology Trend Analysis of CO2 Capture and Storage by Patent Information
Authors: Lee Su-Jin , Lee Yun-Seock , Lee Jeong-Gu , Hong Soon-Jik , Lee Joong-Beom
Published: March 2024

As recognized by all scientific and industrial groups, carbon dioxide(CO2) capture and storage(CCS) could play an important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Especially carbon capture technology by dry sorbent is considered as a most energy-efficient method among the existing CCS technologies. Patent analysis has been considered to be a necessary step for identifying technological trend and planning technology strategies. This paper is aimed at identifying evolving technology trend and key indicators of dry sorbent from the objective information of patents. And technology map of key patents is also presented. In this study the patents applied in korea, japan, china, canada, US, EU from 1993 to 2013 are analyzed. The result of patent analysis could be used for R&D and policy making of domestic CCS industry.
Synthesis of Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanocrystals and Their Application to Thermally Conductive Composites
Authors: Jung Jae-Yong , Kim Yang-Do , Shin Pyung-Woo , Kim Young-Kuk
Published: March 2024

Much attention has been paid to thermally conductive materials for efficient heat dissipation of electronic devices to maintain their functionality and to support lifetime span. Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), which has a high thermal conductivity, is one of the most suitable materials for thermally conductive composites. In this study, we synthesize h-BN nanocrystals by pyrolysis of cost-effective precursors, boric acid, and melamine. Through pyrolysis at 900°C and subsequent annealing at 1500°C, h-BN nanoparticles with diameters of ~80 nm are synthesized. We demonstrate that the addition of small amounts of Eu-containing salts during the preparation of melamine borate precursors significantly enhanced the crystallinity of h-BN. In particular, addition of Eu assists the growth of h-BN nanoplatelets with diameters up to ~200 nm. Polymer composites containing both spherical Al2O3 (70 vol%) and Eu-doped h-BN nanoparticles (4 vol%) show an enhanced thermal conductivity (λ ~ 1.72W/mK), which is larger than the thermal conductivity of polymer composites containing spherical Al2O3 (70 vol%) as the sole fillers (λ ~ 1.48W/mK).
Synthesis and Characterization of Brilliant Yellow Color Pigments using α-FeOOH Nanorods
Authors: Yun JiYeon , Yu Ri , Kim YooJin
Published: March 2024

In this work, we synthesize brilliant yellow color α-FeOOH by controlling the rod length and core-shell structure. The characteristics of α-FeOOH nanorods are controlled by the reaction conditions. In particular, the length of the α-FeOOH rods depends on the concentration of the raw materials, such as the alkali solution. The length of the nanorods is adjusted from 68 nm to 1435 nm. Their yellowness gradually increases, with the highest b* value of 57 based on the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) Lab system, by controlling the nanorod length. A high quality yellow color is obtained after formation of a silica coating on the α-FeOOH structure. The morphology and the coloration of the nal products are investigated in detail by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, UV-vis spectroscopy, and the CIE Lab color parameter measurements.
Управляемость приближенно заданной управляемой системы
Authors: Avakov Evgeny Rachievich , Magaril-Il'yaev Georgii Georgievich
Published: March 2024

В работе вводится понятие управляемости системы обыкновенных дифференциальных уравнений относительно данной функции и приводятся условия, гарантирующие управляемость относительно такой функции не только первоначально заданной управляемой системы, но и близких к ней управляемых систем.
Библиография: 10 названий.
State of Charge Balancing Control for Multiple Output Dynamically
Adjustable Capacity System
Authors: Kang Jun-Mo , Rich Dave
Published: March 2024

A multiple output dynamically adjustable capacity system (MODACS) is developed to
provide multiple voltage output levels while supporting varying power loads by
switching multiple battery strings between serial and parallel connections. Each
module of the system can service either a low voltage bus by placing its strings
in parallel or a high voltage bus with its strings in series. Since MODACS
contains several such modules, it can produce multiple voltages simultaneously.
By switching which strings and modules service the different output rails and by
varying the connection strategy over time, the system can balance the states of
charge (SOC) of the strings and modules. A model predictive control (MPC)
algorithm is formulated to accomplish this balancing. MODACS operates in various
power modes, each of which imposes unique constraints on switching between
configurations. Those constraints are mathematically formalized so that MPC can
be applied to minimize predicted SOC differences over a finite time horizon. In
this article, several variations that vary in how freely strings can connect and
disconnect from the bus bars are presented. Methods allowing more flexibility in
configuration changes can balance SOCs more quickly but take more computation to
resolve. In contrast, simpler schemes reduce computation and simplify
implementation, but take longer to balance the SOCs. Simulation results
illustrate the expected behavior.
Steel, Corrosion-Resistant, Sheet and Strip 18Cr - 9.0Ni (302) Cold Rolled, 1/2 Hard, 150 ksi (1034 MPa) Tensile Strength
Authors:   AMS F Corrosion and Heat Resistant Alloys Committee
Published: March 2024

This specification covers a corrosion-resistant steel in the form of sheet and strip over 0.005 inch (0.13 mm) in nominal thickness.
Nickel Alloy, Corrosion- and Heat-Resistant, Welding Wire 50Ni - 20Cr - 20Co - 5.9Mo - 2.2Ti - 0.45AI (Alloy 263) Consumable Electrode or Vacuum Induction Melted and Remelted
Authors:   AMS F Corrosion and Heat Resistant Alloys Committee
Published: March 2024

This specification covers a corrosion- and heat-resistant nickel alloy in the form of welding wire.
Steel Bars and Forgings and Forging Stock, Carburizing, Aircraft Quality, 1.8Ni - 0.25Mo - (0.15 - 0.20C), (SAE 4617)
Authors:   AMS E Carbon and Low Alloy Steels Committee
Published: March 2024

This specification covers an aircraft-quality, low-alloy steel in the form of bars, forgings, and forging stock.
Detection of Helicobacter pylori infection in children using rapid urease and histologic methods of diagnosis
Authors: J. Afaa Taiba , A. H. Seneadza Nana , D. Abrahams Afua , K. Etwire Victor , Odei Eric
Published: March 2024

Objective: The study aimed to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection in children using two investigative methods: the rapid urease test and histological methods. It also examined the relationship between socioeconomic status and Helicobacter pylori infection.Design: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in the paediatric theatre at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra, Ghana.Participants: Children who were scheduled for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were recruited into the study.Main outcome measures: The presence of Helicobacter pylori in gastric biopsies was measured using a rapid urease test and histology.Results: Seventy-three children aged 2 years to 16 years were seen during the period. Both tests were positive at the same time in 36 (49.3%) out of the 73 children (p<0.0001). The positivity rates for the rapid urease test and histology were 57.5% and 53.4 %, respectively. Significant predictors of the histology presence of H. pylori were a large household size of at least 6 members (AOR: 4.03; p<0.013) and the presence of pets at home (AOR: 3.23; p<0.044).Conclusions: Substantial agreement was found between the rapid urease test and histology examination of gastric biopsies for the presence of H. pylori. Children from large households and those with pets at home appear to have increased odds of having H. pylori infection of the gastric mucosa.
Adverse drug reactions, adherence, and virologic outcomes in adult patients on dolutegravir- based antiretroviral therapy at a tertiary hospital, southeast Nigeria
Authors: U. Ogbonnaya Lawrence , K. Onah Cosmas , N. Azuogu Benedict , O. Akpa Christian , C. Okeke Kingsley , N. Nwachukwu Violet , Stephen-Emeya Adaeze , U. Asaga Irene , D. Umeokonkwo Chukwuma
Published: March 2024

Objective: To assess the adherence, adverse drug reactions (ADR), and virologic outcomes of dolutegravir-based antiretroviral therapy.Design: This was a retrospective chart review.Setting: A tertiary health facility-based study in Abakaliki, Nigeria.Participants: Five hundred and fifteen (515) adult patients on dolutegravir were selected using a Random Number Generator. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from patients’ case notes and analysed with IBM-SPSS version-25.Main outcome measures: Adherence to dolutegravir, ADRs, virologic outcome, and change in Body Mass Index (BMI) were estimated.Results: The mean age of the patients was 45.5±10.8 years; 68.2% of them were females; 97.1% of them had good self-reported adherence. The majority (82.9%) of them reported no ADRs and among those (17.1%) that did, headache (9.7%), body-itching (3.1%), and skin rash (2.7%) dominated. Most achieved viral suppression (94.4%) and did not have detectable viral particles (57.4%). There was a significant increase in the BMI of the patients with a mean weight increase of 0.9kg, a mean BMI increase of 0.3 kg/m2, and a 2.6% increase in the prevalence of overweight and obesity.Conclusions: Patients on dolutegravir reported low ADRs, good self-reported adherence, and a high viral suppression rate. However, dolutegravir is associated with weight gain. We recommend widespread use and more population-wide studies to elucidate the dolutegravir-associated weight gain.
Reviewers for 2023
Authors: Editor-in-Chief
Published: March 2024

Reviewers of manuscripts for our journal contribute immensely to the standard and quality of the papers we publish. The Ghana Medical Journal is grateful for the voluntary service provided by the following reviewers for the year 2023.
Sex hormone-binding globulin is a valuable diagnostic indicator of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Bruno Basil , K. Blessing Myke-Mbata , N. Izuchukwu Mba , T. Terry Gbaa , Faeren Dogoh
Published: March 2024

Objective: To assess the performance of the Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) assay as a diagnostic indicator of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) in the study population.Design: Analytical cross-sectional studySetting: Hospital-based, Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, Nigeria.Participants: Women with singleton pregnancies at 24 to 28 weeks gestational age attending Antenatal care at BSUTH, Makurdi.Intervention: Serum SHBG levels were assayed by ELISA during a diagnostic 75-gram Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) for assessment of GDM in the cohort of consecutively selected participants who met the inclusion criteria.Main Outcome Measures: Serum levels of SHBG and presence of GDM in the participants.Result: Serum SHBG was significantly negatively correlated (rpb = - 0.534, p-value < 0.001) with the presence of GDM. It had an area under the ROC curve of 0.897 (95% Confidence Interval = 0.858–0.935; p-value < 0.001). A cut-off value of 452.0 nmol/L indicative of GDM had a diagnostic odds ratio of 21.4 in the study population.Conclusion: SHBG is a valuable diagnostic indicator for GDM in the study population.
Evaluation of hormones and other biochemical parameters among chronic liver disease patients infected with Toxoplasma gondii.
Authors: Fingan B. A. , Al-Warid H. S. , Al-Sultan H. J.
Published: March 2024

This study was conducted in Baghdad, Iraq from December 2021 to May 2022. The goal was to determine the effect of Toxoplasma gondii on liver function by examining the relationship between Toxoplasma infection and hormones. One hundred and twenty male patients with Chronic liver disease (CLD) (age:14-75 years) and 120 control males (age: 24-70 years) participated in this study. Serum samples were taken from all individuals and were then analysed for anti-Toxoplasma antibodies. Hormonal tests were conducted for all participants which included (Cortisol, testosterone, prolactin, insulin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone TSH). Biochemical tests included (Prothrombin time PT, international normalized ratio INR and albumin); liver enzymes evaluated were (aspartate aminotransferase AST, alanine aminotransferase ALT, alkaline phosphatase ALP and gamma-glutamyl transferase GGT) and interleukins (Interleukin 13 IL-13 and transforming growth factor TGF). According to the anti-Toxoplasma antibodies results, 32 (26% of the control group) of the participants tested positive for anti-Toxoplasma antibodies, compared to 60 (50%) of the CLD patients. Four sub-groups were formed in response to prior results: Control-Toxoplasma positive, control-Toxoplasma negative, CLD-Toxoplasma positive and CLD-Toxoplasma negative. The seropositive status of T. gondii did not affect the following hormones: cortisol, testosterone,insulin and TSH while it was related significantly to prolactin. The results of liver enzymes showed that T. gondii positive status was significantly related to all enzymes among CLD patients except the GGT enzyme T. gondii positive status was not correlated with the other biochemical (PT, INR, and albumin) and immunological parameters (IL-13 and TGF).
Comparative assessment of malaria diagnostic techniques updates
Authors: Sahira K. , Al-Abboodi A. K
Published: March 2024

Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites that enter the bloodstream via insect vectors, such as mosquitos. The disease has devastated parts of Africa and the wider human population throughout human periods and thus remains a significant global health challenge due to the difficulty in the procurement of a vaccine and the nature of its spread. While many have turned towards preventative methods, the first thing that must happen is a timely and accurate diagnosis of malaria. This is crucial for the effective management and control of the disease. However, the current diagnostic methods have various limitations, including cost, availability, and accuracy. This review aims to unmask the challenges of malaria diagnosis by exploring existing diagnostic techniques and shedding light on emerging technologies that show promise in improving malaria detection. Furthermore, it examines the potential of innovative approaches, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and molecular diagnostics, in transforming malaria diagnosis and contributing to global efforts toward malaria elimination.
Prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positivity and its associated risk factors among large truck drivers and their assistants in Zamfara State, Nigeria.
Authors: Aguh B. I. , Sani Z. R. , Agba A. A. , Mohammed A. , Ukwaja V. C.
Published: March 2024

Hepatitis B is a viral hepatitis of global public health concern causing inflammation, liver damage, and occasionally cancer. This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection among truck drivers and their assistants towards guiding health campaigns aimed at its possible eradication. This was a cross-sectional study that included 264 consenting adult male truckers and assistants aged 19–70 years recruited from large truck transit parks in Gusau, Zamfara State, Nigeria. The data collection spanned three months from December 2022 to February 2023. All participants completed a questionnaire to assess their risk of exposure and were screened for hepatitis B virus. The overall prevalence of HBsAg was 20.8% in the study participants. Truck assistants were 2.4 times (p-value <0.01) more likely to be HBV positive than the actual drivers. Unprotected multiple sex (p-value = 0.00; adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.40 – 5.43), family history of HBV infection (p-value < 0.01; AOR = 3.5; 95% CI: 1.62 – 7.49) and sharing of personal hygiene items (p-value < 0.01; AOR = 3.8; 95% CI: 1.58 – 9.35) were statistically significant risk factor for contracting HBV infection. Hepatitis B virus positivity was significantly (p<0.05) associated with age, education, and marital statuses of the participants. This study unravelled high prevalence of HBV in the study population. The population being a highly mobile one calls for concern as it could be a vehicle for the disease's rapid transmission. Therefore, more resources should be apportioned to scale upinterventions such as vaccination, rigorous test campaigns and increasing capacity to deliver effective treatments.
Evaluation of the antiplasmodial activity of Curcuma longa (turmeric - Zingiberaceae) on Plasmodium berghei in laboratory mice.
Authors: Dawet A. , Golnaan C. H. , Yusuf K. , Lengnen E.T. , Kamji N. B. , Yakubu D. P.
Published: March 2024

Malaria is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in developing countries and in sub-Saharan Africa where most malaria cases and deaths occur. The resistance of malaria parasites to most anti-malaria drugs, coupled with the high cost and the toxic effects of some drugs has posed a challenge for the search of new effective anti-malarial compounds of low cost. The study aims to determine the antiplasmodial activity of Curcuma longa against Plasmodium berghei in rodents. A total of 110 Swiss albino mice weighing 18-30 grams were used for the study: 35 for the toxicity test and 75 for the antimalarial study. For each test, 25 mice were inoculated with drug-sensitive Nk65 Plasmodium berghei and divided into five groups of five animals each and each group was administered one of the following: 120mg/kg of ethanol extract, 120mg/kg water extract, 120mg/kg nHexane extracts of C. longa, 1.2mg/kg of pyrimethamine or 5mg/kg of Chloroquine (positive control) and 0.2mls of normal saline (negative control). The lethal dose concentration was above 1500mg/kg and the extracts showed significant (P<0.05) antimalarial activity with the highest percentage inhibition (67.49%) recorded in the group treated with ethanol in the curative test, followed by the group given water in the suppressive test with (65.03%) and nHexane in the prophylactic test with percentage inhibition of 64.98%. There was a slight difference in the antimalarial activities of the extracts of different solvents which all had lower activities compared with the standard drugs (Chloroquine administered at 5mg/kg or pyrimethamine, 1.2mg/kg/day) but no total clearance of the parasite was recorded. C. longa possesses considerable antiplasmodial activity, which can be exploited in malaria therapy.
Molecular Evaluation of Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax isolated from orthodontic patients in Maysan Province, Iraq.
Authors: Mushtaq E. , Al-Abboodi, A. K.
Published: March 2024

Entamoeba gingivalis (E. gingivalis) and Trichomonas tenax (T. tenax) are two species of parasitic protozoans that inhabit the human buccal cavity. Poor hygiene increases infection with these parasites. There has recently been a need to use orthodontics, despite its benefits, but the damage caused by orthodontics cannot be overlooked. The current study aims to assess the prevalence of oral parasites among individuals who use orthodontic appliances (fixed and mobile). The study included 200 participants, 100(76 females and 24 males) orthodontics patients, and 100(75 females and 25 males) nonorthodontics participants (control). Gathered one pair of swabs from each participant for microscopic analysis, culture, and implementation of the nested PCR method. Chi-square and Fisher’s tests were conducted to identify any statistically significant connection between parasitic infections and orthodontic treatments. The findings indicated that orthodontic patients had elevated infection rates with these parasites. Specifically, the infection rate of E. gingivalis in orthodontic patients was more infected (47%) than in non-orthodontic subjects (25%) which were the control. The prevalence of T. tenax was only 2.0% in the orthodontic patients while it was 1.0% in the control group. The prevalence rates of both parasites (E. gingivalis and T. tenax) in the orthodontic patients exhibited the highest prevalence of 19% and 16% respectively among the control subjects. The study found a significant correlation between infection and orthodontic applications at P= 0.01. The effects of other factors on oral parasite infection such as (sex, age, and orthodontic type) were also studied and compared between the two groups.
The beginnings of American forensic medicine and criminalistics in the journalistic interpretation of Bruce Goldfarb - review of the book „18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics”
Authors: Kłys Małgorzata
Published: March 2024

American forensic medicine is about 100 years younger than the European one. It was in Europe that at the beginning of the 20th century, American doctors were trained and gradually expanded the field of science and expertise in forensic medicine and criminalistics. This area, for several centuries under the English law, which was in force there, had been successively „mummified” by coroners who worked for years to earn their bad reputation. The outstanding American journalist Bruce Goldfarb writes about the emergence of forensic medicine and criminalistics in the reality of the United States of America and the pioneering role of the „forensic architect” Frances Glessner Lee in his book entitled „18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics”. This is an extremely interesting book worth recommending to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge in this area of science.
Żydzi w miastach ziemi sanockiej pod koniec XVIII wieku – liczebność, rozmieszczenie, pozycja społeczno-prawna
Authors: Ślusarek Krzysztof
Published: March 2024

Jews in the cities of the Sanok region at the end of the 18th century – number, distribution, social and legal status

The article discusses the number, distribution, social status and legal position of the Jewish population living in the towns of Sanok region at the end of the 18th century. The basis of considerations were military censuses from 1772–1799 and descriptions of cities from 1789. Most Jews were in Lesko, Dobromil, Dynów, Rymanów, Baligród and Ustrzyki. Almost 3/4 of the total number of Jews living in all the cities of the Sanok region were concentrated in these cities. There was also a very high percentage of Jews in relation to the population of these cities, ranging from 30 to 50%. The social and legal status of Jews from the cities of Sanok region was the same as in the whole of Galicia. They had personal freedom, but were subject to numerous restrictions, including not being allowed to hold municipal offices. With a few exceptions, they were required to pay rent on their homes.