bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-155 is a critical regulator of regulatory T cells in OM-85 Broncho-Vaxom treated experimental models of allergic rhinitis
Authors: Luo Xi , Li Hehong , Chen Rongshan , Zeng Yinhui , Liu Wenlong , Zeng Qingxiang
Published: January 2024

Background

Bacterial lysates could alleviate the clinical symptoms of allergic rhinitis (AR) and decrease the recurrent rate of AR through regulation of regulatory T cell (Treg) cells. However, the molecular regulatory mechanisms of bacterial lysates to Treg are still unclear.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the importance of microRNA-155 (miR-155) to Treg cells function in OM-85 Broncho-Vaxom (OM-85 BV) treated experimental mouse models of AR.

Methods

AR mouse models were established and treated by intranasal administration of OM-85 BV to investigate the role of bacteria lysate for Treg cell function. The proliferation of Treg cells in peripheral blood was examined. The mRNA levels of IL-10, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were examined by real-time PCR. miR-155 mimics and inhibitor were used to verify the role of miR-155 for Treg cells function.

Results

OM-85 BV, miR-155 mimics or their combination reduced total cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils in nasal lavage fluid of AR mouse models and improved allergic symptoms. OM-85 BV promoted the proliferation of Treg and the expression of Foxp3, IL-10 and TGF-β both in vivo and in vitro. The miR-155 enhanced the proliferation and function of Treg.

Conclusions

MiR-155 promotes Treg cells function in OM-85 BV bacteria lysate treated experimental models of AR and alleviate the upper airway allergic inflammation in AR mice.
Efficient results on unbounded solutions of fractional Bagley-Torvik system on the half-line
Authors: Thabet Sabri T. M. , Kedim Imed , Vivas-Cortez Miguel
Published: January 2024

The fractional Bagley-Torvik system (FBTS) is initially created by utilizing fractional calculus to study the demeanor of real materials. It can be described as the dynamics of an inflexible plate dipped in a Newtonian fluid. In the present article, we aim for the first time to discuss the existence and uniqueness (E&U) theories of an unbounded solution for the proposed generalized FBTS involving Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives in the half-line $ (0, \infty) $, by using fixed point theorems (FPTs). Moreover, the Hyers-Ulam stability (HUS), Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability (HURS), and semi-Hyers-Ulam-Rassias stability (sHURS) are proved. Finally, two numerical examples are given for checking the validity of major findings. By investigating unbounded solutions for the FBTS, engineers gain a deeper understanding of the underlying physics, optimize performance, improve system design, and ensure the stability of the motion of real materials in a Newtonian fluid.
Some dynamic Hardy-type inequalities with negative parameters on time scales nabla calculus
Authors: Aly Elkhateeb S. , Madani Y. A. , Gassem F. , Saied A. I. , Rezk H. M. , Mohammed Wael W.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we establish some new dynamic Hardy-type inequalities with negative parameters on time scales nabla calculus by applying the reverse H ölder's inequality, integration by parts, and chain rule on time scales nabla calculus. As special cases of our results (when $ \mathbb{ T = R} $), we get the continuous analouges of inequalities proven by Benaissa and Sarikaya, and when $ \mathbb{T = N}_{0} $, the results to the best of the authors' knowledge are essentially new.
Counterfeit Ruckers Instruments in the MIM Collection: A Case Study of the So-Called “Ruckers-Taskin” Harpsichord
Authors: Vandervellen Pascale
Published: January 2024

The use of archeometrical tools has shed light on the true history of the so-called “Ruckers-Taskin” harpsichord (Musical Instruments Museum, Brussels, inv. 3848), an instrument that is neither a Ruckers nor a Taskin but a French instrument from c. 1695, falsified around 1750 by Antoine Vater and ravalé by Pascal Taskin in 1774.
Generating Mobile Virtual Tour Using UAV and 360 Degree Panorama for Geography-Environmental Learning in Higher Educationw
Authors: Masruroh Heni , Sahrina Alfi , Al Khalidy Diky , Trihatmoko Edy
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, the limitations of media in geo-environmental learning present a significant challenge, as media plays an indispensable role in fostering students’ comprehensive understanding. Employing technology capable of delivering comprehensive landscape information is crucial for effective environmental education. Utilizing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and 360-degree panoramic cameras represents a judicious technological choice, which can be seamlessly integrated into virtual tours. This research aims to develop a Mobile Virtual Tour (Movie-Tour) as a medium to support learning, especially for materials regarding environmental geography. The research and development (RnD) method is used in research with the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation). Data collection for the development of the product involved conducting a need assessment, performing validation tests and conducting trials with students. To gather field data for creating environmental geography materials for the Movie-Tour product, we utilized an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and a 360-degree stereoscopic camera. The results demonstrate that Movie- Tour is an educational medium capable of delivering an immersive learning experience and comprehensive materials, allowing for the virtual visualization of real-world conditions in the field. This capability enhances students’ engagement in exploring physical geography conditions, fosters independent knowledge acquisition, and nurtures their innate curiosity. Movie-Tour stands as a potent and practical educational tool, offering an effective and secure learning experience for students, eliminating the need for direct field visits.
Les politiques du tracteur chez les Wichís du Chaco argentin
Authors: Preci Alberto , Flamini Marco
Published: January 2024

Les machines et leurs usages sont rarement placés au cœur des recherches sur les mondes autochtones. À rebours de ces approches, cet article s’attelle à décrire les modes d’existence politique des tracteurs chez les Wichís du Chaco argentin. Notre hypothèse est que ces engins, pris dans un faisceau de relations clientélistes, jouent un rôle central dans les réagencements politiques contemporains. Non seulement ils s’engagent dans l’évolution des relations interethniques, mais ils catalysent aussi des tensions au sein des communautés. Le suivi de deux tracteurs sur le terrain et l’intérêt porté à leur quotidien nous permettent de montrer à quel point ils sont devenus un outil politique qui accessoirement peut servir à travailler la terre.
Paving a route: Transportation and Aymara politics between Bolivia and Chile
Authors: Garcés Alejandro , Moraga Jorge R.
Published: January 2024

This article is based on an ethnographic study of the land route that connects the port of Iquique (Chile) and the city of Oruro (Bolivia). The route carries much of the flow of goods and people between the two countries. The authors describe a new phase of capitalist expansion led by the local transportation industry and its articulation of kinship-based economic strategies, the overlapping of local political power and rituals, and the appropriation of the international border as an economic and political space for rolling out those strategies.
Challenges and Solutions in the Agricultural Sector of India
Authors: Verma Pratibha , Bibhakar Pratyush
Published: January 2024

In this chapter, agriculture stands as the foundational pillar of the Indian economy, serving as a vital catalyst for growth and yielding substantial dividends in terms of revenue. Despite the commendable growth rate of the Indian economy, the state of agriculture remains less than satisfactory, marred by a multitude of disregarded challenges. India holds a prominent position as a leading supplier of essential commodities such as spices, pulses, saffron, and milk, significantly contributing to the nation's GDP and profoundly impacting the lives of the majority of its populace. Regrettably, these contributions have witnessed a decline. This study aims to elucidate the primary concerns and obstacles confronting Indian agriculture while also proposing potential remedies.
Impact of Industry 5.0 on Healthcare
Authors: Saxena Agrima , Chauhan S. P. S. , Singh Harshit , Chauhan Usha , Kumari Priti
Published: January 2024

Historical societies have been propelled into new eras of progress by the growth of industrial paradigms, each of which was characterised by distinctive technological developments and sociological changes. These revolutions, starting from the Industry 1.0's mechanisation to Industry 4.0's digitalisation, have radically changed the way that various industries and economies around the world operate. Industry 5.0 is now emerging as a disruptive force on the verge of a new phase. Innovative technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the internet of things (IoT) will be combined with human ingenuity, according to its promises.
Cloud Cryptography
Authors: Saravanan Renuka Devi , Loganathan Shyamala , Shunmuganathan Saraswathi
Published: January 2024

Cloud computing is a recent technology that facilitates wide access and storage on the internet. Cloud computing faces few challenges like data loss, quality issues, and data security. Data security became a major concern in the cloud domain as the demand for cloud services is increasing drastically due to its scalability and allowance of concurrent access to users for using various cloud resources. As a consequence, malicious attacks and data breaches happen which also affect other cloud users. Cloud security is made possible with cryptography, which protects from malware and unauthorized users. Traditional cryptographic algorithms are often used to provide data privacy, integrity, and confidentiality. Most recently, a new data encryption scheme was proposed for cloud computing that uses quantum cryptography to improve security. The proposed chapter will provide the complete details about need of data security in cloud computing, significance of cryptography in cloud, existing cryptographic solutions, and proposes a generic model for cloud data security.
Mutation-Based Glow Worm Swarm Optimization for Efficient Load Balancing in Cloud Computing
Authors: Singh Avtar , Kashyap Shobhana
Published: January 2024

Cloud computing has evolved as an innovation that facilitates tasks by dynamically distributing virtual machines. User has to pay for the resources as per the demand. This is a challenging task for cloud service providers. The problems caused in load balancing are selecting random solutions, low speed convergence and picking up the original optima. To attain the best result, a mutation-based glow worm swarm optimization (MGWSO) technique is proposed. With this method, the makespan is reduced for a single work set across multiple datacentres. The work is motivated to decrease the consumption of resources in dynamic contexts while simultaneously increasing their availability. The simulated result shows that the suggested load balancing method dramatically reduces makespan in comparison to mutation-based particle swarm optimization.
Serverless Computing Real-World Applications and Benefits in Cloud Environments
Authors: Vashishth Tarun Kumar , Sharma Vikas , Sharma Kewal Krishan , Kumar Bhupendra , Chaudhary Sachin , Panwar Rajneesh
Published: January 2024

Serverless computing has emerged as a transformative paradigm in cloud environments, revolutionizing the way applications are developed and deployed. In traditional computing models, developers had to manage the underlying infrastructure, server provisioning, and scaling, leading to increased complexity and operational overhead. Serverless computing abstracts away these concerns, allowing developers to focus solely on writing code and delivering business value. This chapter explores the real-world applications and benefits of serverless computing, shedding light on its practical implications for businesses and developers. One of the most significant advantages of serverless computing lies in its ability to dynamically scale resources based on demand, ensuring optimal performance and cost-efficiency. This elasticity enables applications to handle variable workloads effectively, avoiding the underutilization or over provisioning of resources.
Revealing Concepts of a Cloud Deployment Model
Authors: Ghosh Sohini , Choudhury Rajashri Roy , Roy Piyal , Ghosh Shivnath
Published: January 2024

Cloud computing is a fundamental paradigm in information technology, revolutionizing computational resource access, utilization, and management by providing on-demand access to various computing services, including storage, processing power, and applications, delivered over the internet. By leveraging virtualization, resource pooling, and automation, cloud computing enables unparalleled scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency for businesses and individuals alike. The chapter explores the core ideas of cloud computing, summarising its essential traits, deployment strategies, and service models. Moreover, it explores the significance of cloud computing in driving innovation, facilitating digital transformation, and fostering a dynamic and interconnected technological ecosystem. Also, it discuss the advantages and disadvantages of cloud computing along with some future directions.
Digitally Empowering Women Through Community Radio and Mobile Storytelling in India
Authors: Jha Soumya , Redhu Vishesh , Pande Navodita , Bolesnikov Minja
Published: January 2024

In the post-COVID-19 era, digital empowerment has become significant, especially with reference to media messages and communication technologies being used to financially empower citizens. As past histories of media are leaving behind a legacy of analog and archaic forms of media content creation, new technologies are building the ‘media archaeology' of past traditions, heritages, epistemologies to generate meanings, and dialogue for new means of storytelling, thereby preserving heritage in ‘digital formats'. The study has some broader mission and objectives with more specific research questions: What are the key themes of digital literacy among community radio practitioners? Which theoretical frameworks can define digital literacy? What are the different tools of digital empowerment? Is there an emerging ‘empowering relationship' among women content creators and consumers?
Review of Internet Addiction and Internet Use Habits of Canakkale People
Authors: Erdoğan Merve
Published: January 2024

With technological advancements, the internet, a global communication tool, has become part of our lives. More and more demand has been placed on the internet, which quickly and easily meets people's needs, such as information, entertainment, communications, and so on. But the widespread use of the internet has brought negative consequences. This study will therefore address the concept of internet dependency, one of the negative consequences of the internet. The research was done to determine the internet addiction and internet usage habits of Çanakkale people. Two hundred eleven people aged 18-46 participated in the study using the general scan model. The study using the random sampling technique uses the descriptive statistical technique. The findings found that most participants were using the internet to inform and research and were angry when the internet was disconnected or slowed down. In addition, it has been found that most participants are happy and peaceful when they use the internet, and that using the internet comforts them when they feel anxious or troubled.
Biographical Documentaries on Digital Platforms as a Self-Presentation
Authors: Cantaş Azime
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study is to examine Netflix's film What Happened, Miss Simone, which is an example of a biographical documentary, with sociologist Erving Goffman's concept of self-presentation and performance, and to reveal the roles in the star's life. The details of individual identity, group relations, the impact of the environment, and the action and interactive meaning of information, which Goffman deals with with a micro-sociological analysis, constitute the scope of the study. The documentary tells the life of civil rights activist and American singer Nina Simone during the turmoil of the 1960s. Goffman's approach to the mode of presentation used by the actor and its meaning in the wider social context appears to offer a new perspective on the nature of social interaction and the psychology of the individual in documentary film.
Novel prognostic factors after radical resection of hepatocellular carcinoma: Updating an old issue
Authors: Bencini Lapo
Published: January 2024

In this editorial, I comment on the article by Li et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery in 2023, investigating the role of some novel prognostic factors for early survival after radical resection of liver cancer. Liver cancer is an important burden among Asian and Western populations, despite recent advances in both medicine (from virus eradication to systemic target therapies) and surgery. However, survival after proven radical surgery remains poor, with recurrences being the rule. Many prognostic scores have been developed and validated to select those patients who will best benefit from radical liver surgery, although the final general and oncological outcomes continue to be highly jeopardized. Unfortunately, no single biomarker can resolve all these issues for hepatocellular carcinoma, and it remains to be proven whether some of them maintain predictive power in the long-term follow-up. In the ongoing era of “precision” medicine, the novel prognostic markers, including immune inflammatory and nutritional indexes could be of great help in better stratify surgical candidates.
Different timing for abdominal paracentesis catheter placement and drainage in severe acute pancreatitis complicated by intra-abdominal fluid accumulation
Authors: Chen Rui , Chen Hua-Qiang , Li Rui-Die , Lu Hui-Min
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Non-surgical methods such as percutaneous drainage are crucial for the treatment of patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). However, there is still an ongoing debate regarding the optimal timing for abdominal paracentesis catheter placement and drainage.

AIM

To explore the influence of different timing for abdominal paracentesis catheter placement and drainage in SAP complicated by intra-abdominal fluid accumulation.

METHODS

Using a retrospective approach, 184 cases of SAP complicated by intra-abdominal fluid accumulation were enrolled and categorized into three groups based on the timing of catheter placement: group A (catheter placement within 2 d of symptom onset, n = 89), group B (catheter placement between days 3 and 5 after symptom onset, n = 55), and group C (catheter placement between days 6 and 7 after symptom onset, n = 40). The differences in progression rate, mortality rate, and the number of cases with organ dysfunction were compared among the three groups.

RESULTS

The progression rate of group A was significantly lower than those in groups B and groups C (2.25% vs 21.82% and 32.50%, P < 0.05). Further, the proportion of patients with at least one organ dysfunction in group A was significantly lower than those in groups B and groups C (41.57% vs 70.91% and 75.00%, P < 0.05). The mortality rates in group A, group B, and group C were similar (P > 0.05). At postoperative day 3, the levels of C-reactive protein (55.41 ± 19.32 mg/L vs 82.25 ± 20.41 mg/L and 88.65 ± 19.14 mg/L, P < 0.05), procalcitonin (1.36 ± 0.51 ng/mL vs 3.20 ± 0.97 ng/mL and 3.41 ± 0.98 ng/mL, P < 0.05), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (15.12 ± 6.63 pg/L vs 22.26 ± 9.96 pg/L and 23.39 ± 9.12 pg/L, P < 0.05), interleukin-6 (332.14 ± 90.16 ng/L vs 412.20 ± 88.50 ng/L and 420.08 ± 87.65ng/L, P < 0.05), interleukin-8 (415.54 ± 68.43 ng/L vs 505.80 ± 66.90 ng/L and 510.43 ± 68.23ng/L, P < 0.05) and serum amyloid A (270.06 ± 78.49 mg/L vs 344.41 ± 81.96 mg/L and 350.60 ± 80.42 mg/L, P < 0.05) were significantly lower in group A compared to those in groups B and group C. The length of hospital stay in group A was significantly lower than those in groups B and group C (24.50 ± 4.16 d vs 35.54 ± 6.62 d and 38.89 ± 7.10 d, P < 0.05). The hospitalization expenses in group A were also significantly lower than those in groups B and groups C [2.70 (1.20, 3.55) ten-thousand-yuan vs 5.50 (2.98, 7.12) ten-thousand-yuan and 6.00 (3.10, 8.05) ten-thousand-yuan, P < 0.05). The incidence of complications in group A was markedly lower than that in group C (5.62% vs 25.00%, P < 0.05), and similar to group B (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous catheter drainage for the treatment of SAP complicated by intra-abdominal fluid accumulation is most effective when performed within 2 d of onset.
Comparison of different preoperative objective nutritional indices for evaluating 30-d mortality and complications after liver transplantation
Authors: Li Chuan , Chen Hong-Xia , Lai Yan-Hua
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The nutritional status is closely related to the prognosis of liver transplant recipients, but few studies have reported the role of preoperative objective nutritional indices in predicting liver transplant outcomes.

AIM

To compare the predictive value of various preoperative objective nutritional indicators for determining 30-d mortality and complications following liver transplantation (LT).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 162 recipients who underwent LT at our institution from December 2019 to June 2022.

RESULTS

This study identified several independent risk factors associated with 30-d mortality, including blood loss, the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), the nutritional risk index (NRI), and the control nutritional status. The 30-d mortality rate was 8.6%. Blood loss, the NRI, and the PNI were found to be independent risk factors for the occurrence of severe postoperative complications. The NRI achieved the highest prediction values for 30-d mortality [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.861, P < 0.001] and severe complications (AUC = 0.643, P = 0.011). Compared to those in the high NRI group, the low patients in the NRI group had lower preoperative body mass index and prealbumin and albumin levels, as well as higher alanine aminotransferase and total bilirubin levels, Model for End-stage Liver Disease scores and prothrombin time (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the group with a low NRI exhibited significantly greater incidences of intraabdominal bleeding, primary graft nonfunction, and mortality.

CONCLUSION

The NRI has good predictive value for 30-d mortality and severe complications following LT. The NRI could be an effective tool for transplant surgeons to evaluate perioperative nutritional risk and develop relevant nutritional therapy.
Predictive value of NLR, Fib4, and APRI in the occurrence of liver failure after hepatectomy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kuang Tian-Zuo , Xiao Meng , Liu Yong-Fan
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), fibrosis index based on four factors (Fib4), aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) can be used for prognostic evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma. However, no study has established an individualized prediction model for the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma based on these factors.

AIM

To screen the factors that affect the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma and establish a nomogram model that predicts postoperative liver failure after hepatic resection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

METHODS

In total, 220 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated in our hospital from January 2022 to January 2023 were selected. They were divided into 154 participants in the modeling cohort, and 66 in the validation cohort. Comparative analysis of the changes in NLR, Fib4, and APRI levels in 154 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma before liver resection and at 3 mo, 6 mo, and 12 mo postoperatively was conducted. Binary logistic regression to analyze the influencing factors on the occurrence of liver failure in hepatocellular carcinoma patients, roadmap prediction modeling, and validation, patient work characteristic curves (ROCs) to evaluate the predictive efficacy of the model, calibration curves to assess the consistency, and decision curve analysis (DCA) to evaluate the model’s validity were also conducted.

RESULTS

Binary logistic regression showed that Child-Pugh grading, Surgical site, NLR, Fib4, and APRI were all risk factors for liver failure after hepatic resection in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. The modeling cohort built a column-line graph model, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.986 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.963-1.000]. The patients in the validation cohort utilized the column-line graph to predict the probability of survival in the validation cohort and plotted the ROC curve with an area under the curve of the model of 0.692 (95%CI: 0.548-0.837). The deviation of the actual outcome curves from the calibration curves of the column-line plots generated by the modeling and validation cohorts was small, and the DCA confirmed the validity.

CONCLUSION

NLR, Fib4, and APRI independently influence posthepatectomy liver failure in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. The column-line graph prediction model exhibited strong prognostic capability, with substantial concordance between predicted and actual events.
Intestinal tuberculosis with small bowel stricture and hemorrhage as the predominant manifestation: Three case reports
Authors: Huang Gang , Wu Kang-Kang , Li Xiao-Na , Kuai Jing-Hua , Zhang Ai-Jun
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Intestinal tuberculosis is a chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that mainly affects the ileum and cecum. Small bowel tuberculosis, characterized by predominant involvement of the small intestine, is an extremely rare condition with highly atypical clinical presentations, making diagnosis even more challenging.

CASE SUMMARY

We report three cases of small intestinal tuberculosis, two of the patients presented primarily with abdominal pain, and one presented with gastrointestinal bleeding. All patients underwent blood tests and imaging examinations. Small bowel endoscopy (SBE) revealed that the main lesions in these patients were intestinal stenosis or gastrointestinal bleeding caused by small intestinal ulcers. One patient ultimately underwent surgical treatment. Following a complex diagnostic process and comprehensive analysis, all patients were confirmed to have small intestinal tuberculosis and received standard antituberculosis treatment, leading to an improvement in their condition.

CONCLUSION

Patients with SBTs present with nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and occasional gastrointestinal bleeding. Accurate diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation of clinical symptoms and various tests to avoid misdiagnosis and complications.
Sarcopenia in cirrhotic patients: Does frailty matter while waiting for a liver transplant?
Authors: Li Xing-Jie , He Kang
Published: January 2024

Sarcopenia reflects patient frailty and should be routinely assessed due to its high prevalence in cirrhotic patients awaiting liver transplants. Pre-transplant nutritional optimization should be tailored for patients with a definitive diagnosis of sarcopenia, therefore improving functional status at transplant and reducing post-transplant mortality. Hepatologists and transplant surgeons should have raised awareness regarding sarcopenia and the reflected frailty that hinder posttransplant outcomes. The policymakers should also take into account when modifying the organ allocation model that sarcopenia or frailty might become a decisive factor in allocating organs for cirrhotic patients, in order to ensure post-transplant survival and quality of life.
Single-incision laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair in the treatment of adult female patients with inguinal hernia
Authors: Zhu Xiao-Jun , Jiao Jing-Yi , Xue Hui-Min , Chen Peng , Qin Chang-Fu , Wang Peng
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

Women have a 3% lifetime chance of developing an inguinal hernia, which is not as common in men. Due to its cosmetic benefits, single-incision laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (SIL-TAPP) inguinal hernia repair is becoming increasingly popular in the management of inguinal hernia in women. However, there are no studies comparing the safety and applicability of SIL-TAPP repair with conventional laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (CL-TAPP) inguinal hernia repair for the treatment of inguinal hernia in women.

AIM

To compare the outcomes of SIL-TAPP and CL-TAPP repair in adult female patients with inguinal hernia and to estimate the safety and applicability of SIL-TAPP repair in adult female inguinal hernia patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively compared the clinical information and follow-up data of female inguinal hernia patients who underwent SIL-TAPP inguinal hernia repair and those who underwent CL-TAPP inguinal hernia repair at the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University from February 2018 to December 2020 and assessed the long-term and short-term outcomes of both cohorts.

RESULTS

This study included 123 patients, with 71 undergoing SIL-TAPP repair and 52 undergoing CL-TAPP repair. The two cohorts of patients and inguinal hernia characteristics were similar, with no statistically meaningful difference. The rate of intraoperative inferior epigastric vessel injury was lower in patients in the SIL-TAPP cohort (0, 0%) than in patients in the CL-TAPP cohort (4, 7.7%) and was significantly different (P < 0.05). In addition, the median [interquartile range (IQR)] total hospitalization costs were significantly lower in patients in the SIL-TAPP cohort [$3287 (3218-3325)] than in patients in the CL-TAPP cohort [$3511 (3491-3599)]. Postoperatively, the occurrence rate of trocar site hernia was lower in the SIL-TAPP cohort (0, 0%) than in the CL-TAPP cohort (4, 7.7%), and the median (IQR) cosmetic score was significantly higher in the SIL-TAPP cohort [10 (10-10)] than in the CL-TAPP cohort [9 (9-10)].

CONCLUSION

SIL-TAPP repair did not increase the incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications in female inguinal hernia patients. Moreover, female inguinal hernia patients who underwent SIL-TAPP repair had a lower probability of trocar site hernia and inferior epigastric vessel injury than female inguinal hernia patients who underwent CL-TAPP repair. In addition, female inguinal hernia patients who underwent SIL-TAPP repair reported a more aesthetically pleasing postoperative abdominal incision. Therefore, SIL-TAPP repair is a better option for the treatment of inguinal hernias in women.
Fostering social cohesion through Kwame Nkrumah’s philosophical consciencism: The South African case
Authors: Shozi Ntobeko , Mbatha Lungelo Siphosethu , Sithole Anele Nontokozo
Published: January 2024

Since apartheid was formally abolished in 1994, South Africa has had a complicated social environment. Even though the end of apartheid was a great achievement, this country is now facing a number of societal issues that affect social cohesiveness. These issues include high unemployment rates, racial conflicts, economic inequality, and land reform-related problems. In addition, South Africa has problems with crime, corruption, and service delivery, all of which erode public confidence in institutions and exacerbate social unrest. Rainbowism is one tactic employed to promote social cohesion; however, much debate exists about its capacity to deliver. Therefore, this study proposes Kwame Nkrumah’s philosophical consciencism as a means of promoting social cohesion in South Africa.
What ubuntu cannot do for South Africa and Zimbabwe
Authors: Matolino Bernard
Published: January 2024

Academic discourse on ubuntu, both in South Africa and Zimbabwe, coincided with the arrival of freedom in these countries. Ubuntu’s revival sought to show that there was an African alternative to the oppressive regimes that had cruelly governed both countries. This alternative was pronounced as offering a grounded beginning of the postcolonial society that would be able to humanize the African through resuscitating traditional values. These values would speak to how the African was supposed to be; ontologically, ethically, and politically. The hope was that the social conditions would, in line with these values, also transform to enable Ubuntu to thrive. However, I will contend that the social conditions developed in both countries not only fail to animate ubuntu but have begun to directly undermine its basics.
The place of indigenous knowledge in environmental social work in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mukurazhizha Rudo , Muridzo Noel , Simbine Samuel
Published: January 2024

Environmentalism has gained momentum in social work. Practitioners and educators now acknowledge that leaving out environmental issues in their teaching curriculum and practice short charges their clients. This paper brings to the fore the element of indigenous knowledge in environmental social work practice. It explores how traditional beliefs and practices, Ubuntu philosophy, and mythology help in the preservation of the environment and adapting to climate change. The paper takes an Afrocentric approach by arguing that if reconsidered, indigenous knowledge systems have the potential to promote environmental preservation. Social workers have come to the acknowledgment that it is critical for the person-in-environment to include the natural environment. They advocate for change and aspects of social justice including environmental issues. The robustness of social work, positions the helping profession    as a natural connection to the environment, ecological preservation, and humanity. International bodies like the International Federation of Social Workers emphasize the need for social work interventions to be underpinned by theories that factor use of indigenous knowledge. Environmental social work is one of the emerging fields of social work education and practice that address developmental interventions. In this paper, the authors use their experiences as social work educators and practitioners on the place of the Indigenous knowledge in environmental social work in Zimbabwe.

How to reference using ASWNet style:

Mukurazhizha R., Muridzo N., Sunungurayi Charamba S. & Simbine S. (2023). The place of indigenous knowledge in environmental social work in  Zimbabwe. African Journal of Social Work, 13(2), 110-117. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i2.7

Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
African nations: a pathological system waiting for social work surgical intervention
Authors: Okafor Samuel O
Published: January 2024

Africa, conceptually, geographically, politically, economically, religiously and socially is in bondage and this bondage is summarized as pathological condition. The pathological condition of Africa is the outcome of cumulative of the attacks by the empire builders, slave traders, colonialists and the neocolonialists. The attacks and their consequences on the African system have resulted to the continuous failure of the socioeconomic, political and institutional lives of the African system with such symptoms and social indicators like political dependence on the colonialists and neocolonialists, dependence on foreign economic aids and borrowing galore, social segregation and self-hatred among the African population, modern slavery by willingness, political instability, religious exploitation, etc. Over the years scholars, political elites and other categories among African population have tried to deal with the pathological condition of the African nations however, the situation seems to have defied every strategy. This defiance of the pathological condition of the African nations to almost every effort to reverse it lie in the way and manner the adventure of colonialism and neocolonialism was designed and implemented. Colonialism and neocolonialism were institutionalised and eventually sustained using the indigenous population. As such, decolonization can only be successful if it is institutionalised and operated by the elite class with deep knowledge of the problem and deep relationship with the African population. Hence, the social workers with their multidimensional discipline and profession as well as deep interaction with the population are strategically handy in mounting and sustaining decolonization agenda in the 21st century Africa. The aforementioned is the focus and interest of this paper.

How to reference using ASWNet style:

Okafor  S. O. (2023). African nations: a pathological system waiting for social work surgical intervention. African Journal of Social Work, 13(3), 127-135. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i3.1

Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
The role of orphans and vulnerable children programme in addressing household food insecurity in Botswana
Authors: Lefadola Boineelo Pearl , Ntshwarang Poloko Nuggert
Published: January 2024

Among the total population, orphans and vulnerable children are more susceptible to food insecurity than their counterparts. To address this challenge, the government of Botswana introduced the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC)’s Programme. This article discusses the role of the OVC Programme in addressing food insecurity within their households in Botswana. It emphasizes that OVC programme has an important role in addressing food insecurity among OVC households. Challenges that hinder ensuring food security among OVC households are discussed. The article offers recommendations on how challenges of the OVC programme can be addressed such as the need to re-structure government and administrative systems for effective and efficient service delivery. The suggested recommendations can be utilized by policymakers when reviewing the OVC programme guidelines.
How to reference using ASWNet style:Lefadola, B. P. & Ntshwarang, P. N. (2023). The role of orphans and vulnerable children programme in addressing household food insecurity in Botswana. African Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 188-196. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i4.2
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Theorising a theory of Ubuntu – the divide between individualism compared to a socialistic understanding of African society
Authors: Khan Sultan
Published: January 2024

This paper seeks to examine Ubuntu from the socialistic perspective that is embraced by most Africans against Maslow’s individualistic hierarchy of needs. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs encourages individualism that often fosters capitalistic demands in western countries whereas in the African continent the theory of Ubuntu by Mbigi is rooted in the Five Fingers approach and provides a socialistic outlook towards life. The principle of Ubuntu is akin to socialism where there is a communal outlook to living. This is long before Karl Marx spoke about socialism. The Ubuntu theory is based on the principles of caring and sharing so that it can meet the needs of communities and nation states. Discussions in this paper are based on the Collective Five Finger theory that has five values which are the cornerstones of Ubuntu. Each value represents a finger and all of them form a strong hand that can stand against trials and tribulations. Previously published African literature was reviewed to expose a solid stance that Ubuntu has on socialism. There is an increasing concern of whether Ubuntu is still relevant in this era of globalisation and how it impacts individuals, thus the rise of alternative terms such as Black Tax. Black Tax is a fast-growing trend in the black community that seeks to oust the original idea of Ubuntu. The Ubuntu policies need to be taught at schools and extended to the private sector.

How to reference using ASWNet style:Khan, S. & Ntakana, U. M. (2023). Theorising a theory of ubuntu – the divide between individualism compared to a socialistic understanding of African society. African Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 217-223. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i4.5

Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Preparation of nanocomposites for corrosion treatment
Authors: Esmail Sadeq Zainab , Sabah Al-Obaidi Noor , Salam Al-Mahdawi Anfal , N. Abd Ahmed , H. Mahmoud Zaid , W. Kamal Ban
Published: January 2024

Nano-copper oxide was prepared by utilizing photolysis method and characteristic by using FT-IR, XRD and SEM; the nano size was about 51 nm, environmental impact (pollution reduction) can be improved by using nanostructure particles in preventing corrosion, and nanocomposites have also proven to be an effective alternative to other hazardous and toxic compounds. The results of the current article indicated that the inhibition efficiency increases with increasing concentration of nano-oxide which is added to methyl orange, curcumin, the corrosion rate (CR), inhibition effectiveness were studied at different temperatures. The results showed an increase corrosion rate and a decrease in inhibition efficiency with increase temperature.

KEY WORDS: Corrosion, Inhibitors, Copper oxide, Nanocomposites

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 501-509.                                                                

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.17
Spectroscopic, physicochemical characterizations and photonics applications on boron subphthalocyanine chloride as organic electronics
Authors: Alrooqi Arwa , A. Alshehri Amal , M. Al-Amshany Zahra , M. Al-Harbi Laila , A.  Altalhi Tariq , S. Refat Moamen , A. Atta A. , A. M. Mersal Gaber , M. Hassanien A. , A. Asla Kareem
Published: January 2024

This work shows the structural, thermogravimetric, optical, and electrochemical properties of boron subphthalocyanine chloride (B-subPc-Cl) as organic electronic material. The Fullprof Suite program and Rietveld analysis were used to refine and index the crystal structure of B-subPc-Cl. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the differential thermogravimetric analysis (dTG) were used to study the kinetic thermogravimetric factors using the Horowitz-Metzger's and Coats-Redfern methods. The absorption spectra of B-subPc-Cl contain two strong absorption bands (Soret-like band and Q-like band). The oscillator strength and electrical dipole strength were estimated by using a Gaussian fitting of the molar absorptivity (εmolar) of the B-subPc-Cl. The HOMO-LUMO and the band gap of B-subPc-Cl were calculated by using cyclic voltammetry measurement. Details of the UV-Vis –NIR absorption spectra and optical band gap for B-subPc-Cl are also provided. Density-functional theory (DFT) method has been utilized to obtain geometrically optimized structure for the studied compound. The theoretical calculations agreed with the experimental results. The obtained results point out the prospects of B-subPc-Cl for the organic electronic applications.

KEY WORDS: Subphthalocyanine, Optical properties, TGA, Cyclic voltammetry, DFT method

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 527-538.                                                                

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.19
Bacteriologic Profile, Antibiotics Resistance Pattern, and Outcomes of Patients Admitted to Lancet General Hospital from June 2022 to June 2023: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Demissie Zekewos , Nurlegn Serkalem , Zemedkun Nahom , Demssis Yidnekachew , Mekuriya Bethel , Beyene Eyob , Getachew Seifemichael , Mekonnen Desalew , Birhanu Yohannes , Alemayehu Brook , Sileshi Nebiyat , Sintayehu Gelila , Admasu Dawit , Zewdie Kibruyisfaw
Published: January 2024

Background: Prior studies indicated increased antimicrobial resistance in Ethiopia, with related health, economic, and environmental  costs. Knowing an institutions and population microbiologic profile allows for proper antibiotic treatment, which substantially impact  patients’ outcomes such as healthcare related costs, morbidity, and mortality. The current study assessed the bacteriologic profile,   resistance pattern, and treatment outcome in Lancet General Hospital.

Method: A retrospective cohort study on the bacteriologic profile, antibiotics resistance pattern, and outcome of patients was done on  128 eligible patients who were admitted to Lancet General Hospital from June 2022 to June 2023. Data from all hospitalized patients with  culture-confirmed infection were analyzed. SPSS version 26.0 was used to analyze the data. Association between independent and  dependent variables was analyzed using binary logistic regression model.

Results: Gram-negative bacteria were recovered in 77% of the  cases. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase producing Enterobacteriaceae was found in 37.5% (54) isolates and carbapenem resistant  bacteria were identified in 27.8% of patients. In-hospital mortality from multidrug resistant bacterial infection was 14.8%. Age ≥ 65 years, presence of septic shock, and presence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria were independently associated with increased in-hospital  mortality.

Conclusion: High number of resistant microorganisms was isolated, and increased mortality was documented from infections  caused by carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Multi-center studies should be done to determine the extent of resistant organisms in health  facilities throughout the country.epidemiology, and the findings should be factored into clinical decision making and program design for  disease prevention, screening, and treatment. It also calls for further prospective research to learn more about the conditions in the  context of additional relevant personal and clinical characteristics
Complete Blood Count, C-reactive Protein, and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate Changes in People with Brucellosis
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Alireza , Khanderoo Mozhgan , Abbasnezhad Abbasali , Ghorbani Mohammad , Nasrollahian Sina , Noorizadeh Reyhaneh , Mardaneh Jalal
Published: January 2024

Background: Brucellosis is a major health and economic problem in many parts of the world, including the Middle East. Blood disorders such as anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia can be seen in brucellosis. However, laboratory findings of this disease are different.  Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the changes in complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte  sedimentation rate (ESR) in people with brucellosis in Gonabad community health centers.

Methods: During the 4 years from May 2016 to May 2019, a prospective study was performed on 221 patients with brucellosis. According  to the national guidelines for brucellosis, titers greater than 1/80 for Wright and more than 1/40 for 2-ME were considered positive cases  of brucellosis. Using the checklist, information related to CBC, CRP, and ESR test parameters was collected.

Results: The results showed that out of 221 patients studied, 58.4% were male and 41.6% were female. The mean age was 44.9±19.8 years  for men and 49.3±17.3 years for females. High ESR was seen in 43.4% and positive CRP in 59.7% of patients. Leukopenia in 8.6%,  leukocytosis in 9%, neutropenia in 6.8%, neutrophilia in 9.5%, lymphopenia in 3.6%, lymphocytosis in 10%, anemia in 17.2% and  thrombocytopenia in 9.5% of patients were seen.

Conclusion: Brucellosis in endemic areas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with  thrombocytopenia. Also in high Wright titers, CRP is a more valuable indicator than ESR.
A Case Report of Silico-Tuberculosis
Authors: Gebrehiwot Kibrom G. , Gebremariam Tewodros H.
Published: January 2024

No Abstract
Magnesium Toxicity Presented as Quadriparesis in Postpartum Period: Case Report
Authors: Demissie Zekewos , Getachew Seyfemichael , Teklu Sisay , Demile Abraham , Endeshaw Bezawit , Hintsa Amanuel
Published: January 2024

Quadriparesis may result from numerous neurologic diseases. Any of the causes could occur in the postpartum period. However, some  conditions have increased prevalence during peripartal period, such as cerebral venous thrombosis, eclampsia itself, or its treatment with  magnesium sulfate causing neuromuscular dysfunction in case of toxicity. Herein, we report a case of magnesium toxicity in a 34- year-old mother in the early postpartum period. This case signifies the importance of magnesium toxicity in patients with decreased  renal clearance.