bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Demographic Characteristics of Spontaneous Pneumothorax Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department
Authors: Tekin Yaşar , Selvi Fatih , Yıldız Günay , Bedel Cihan , Zortuk Ökkeş
Published: January 2024

Background:

Pneumothorax (PNX) is the presence of air between the parietal and visceral pleura and secondary lung collapse. This study aimed to analyze the demographic analysis of patients who applied to the emergency department and were found to have spontaneous PNX and to investigate the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed with spontaneous PNX and admitted to the emergency department between January 01, 2020 and August 01, 2022 were analyzed. The hospital data processing system examined the patient’s vital signs, the complaint of admission to the emergency department, chronic diseases, imaging method, the treatment applied, outcome, and the presence of past COVID-19 diagnosis.

Results:

Of the patients who developed spontaneous PNX, 87.5% (n = 105) were male. The most common comorbid disease observed in patients is hypertension (23.3%), and 10.8% of patients have a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Ten percent of the patients have a history of PNX, and 15% have a history of previous thoracic surgery for various reasons. 6.7% of the patients had COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion:

PNX is a disease that all physicians can encounter and require urgent intervention, and it is important to know both the treatment options and the factors associated with the disease.
Bilateral acute vision loss as the initial presentation of chronic myeloid leukemia in a young female
Authors: Balamurugan Sivaraman , Kaur Kirandeep , Gurnani Bharat , Agrawal Anushri
Published: January 2024

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a hematological malignancy characterized by structural/functional changes and increased neutrophils. Rarely, ophthalmic manifestations are the first clue toward underlying pathology. We report a case of a 34-year-old woman who presented with sudden-onset diminution of vision in both eyes. On examination, she was diagnosed with panuveitis in the right eye and choroiditis in the left eye. Further investigations revealed an underlying CML in the accelerated phase. The patient was managed with systemic immunomodulators along with topical and periocular steroids. Prompt diagnosis and management in collaboration with an oncologist and hematologist helped us achieve a good outcome.
Association of preoperative serum adipokines, insulin, and sex steroid hormones with breast cancer risk in the Indian women
Authors: Dhiman Deepshikha , Kumar Ashish , Shukla Shailaja
Published: January 2024

Background:

Obesity-related factors such as adipokines, insulin, insulin-like growth factors, and sex steroid hormones have been reported to be involved in breast carcinogenesis. Studies across the world suggest an important, but still controversial, role of obesity in breast cancer risk. This study aims to evaluate the association of obesity-related factors such as adipokines, insulin, insulin resistance, and sex steroid hormones with breast cancer risk in the Indian population.

Materials and Methods:

Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were taken in 60 newly diagnosed and histologically confirmed breast cancer patients and 50 healthy controls. Preoperative serum levels of adiponectin, leptin, insulin, estrogen, and testosterone were measured using ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). The data were analyzed and compared.

Results:

The mean serum total cholesterol (T.CHOL) and leptin levels were significantly higher (P = 0.047), whereas testosterone levels were significantly lower in patients than in controls. Waist circumference (WC) and leptin levels showed a significant positive association with breast cancer risk. Association of serum leptin levels with breast cancer risk persisted after adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), and WC parameters (odds ratio [OR] = 1.042, P = 0.03). Leptin levels positively correlated with WC and triglycerides (TG), whereas insulin and insulin resistance positively correlated with BMI, WC, TG, and T.CHOL (P < 0.05). Among the tumor characteristics, serum adiponectin showed a positive correlation with lymph node involvement, whereas serum estradiol levels were positively correlated with ER (estrogen receptor) and PR (progesterone receptor) status.

Conclusion:

Together, our study supports the association of obesity (WC) with breast cancer risk and also suggests the potential role of leptin as a biomarker for breast cancer risk, independent of obesity.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Provides Early Recovery from Arthrogenic Muscle Inhibition Post-Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Khan Firoz Azam , Kushwaha Sushmita , Vakharia Khyati , Kumar Jaswant , BhaVani Prashant , Sinha Skand
Published: January 2024

Background:

Quadriceps weakness that ensues anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, a common procedure done in sportspersons, is a hindrance in the active rehabilitation and delays return to sport. This weakness of quadriceps muscle is a complex neural phenomenon ascribed to arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI).

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in AMI post-ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Methods:

A prospective randomized study involving 60 patients with isolated ACL injury above 18 years of age were included. Patients with osteoarthritis knee, multiligament injury, previous knee surgery, and inflammatory knee pathology were excluded from the study. Patients were divided into Groups A and B (n = 30, each). Group A received TENS therapy with exercises and ice packs, whereas Group B received only exercise and ice packs post-ACLR. All patients were assessed subjectively using Visual Analog Scale score for pain, Lysholm, and IKDC score for functional outcome pre and postoperatively on day 2, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year. Objective assessment was done by measuring thigh girth (10 cm above knee joint line) and isometric quadriceps strength (using David Biofeedback Strength Evaluation Machine) pre and postoperatively at day 2, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.

Results:

Pain decreased in both groups at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, but there was significantly lower pain in Group A in comparison to Group B at 1 month (P = 0.003), 3 months (P = 0.001), and 6 months (P ≤ 0.0001). There was no pain at 1 year in both the groups. Lysholm score improved in both groups, but there was statistically significantly better Lysholm score in Group A in comparison to Group B at each follow-up. IKDC score improved in both groups, but the improvement in Group A was significantly higher than Group B at each follow-up. No significant difference in mean thigh girth was observed. Mean quadriceps strength was similar in both groups except at 6 months where Group A was better than Group B (<0.001).

Conclusion:

Addition of TENS in ACLR rehabilitation decreases pain and provides better clinical outcome.
Dual Organism Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Case Report and One Year Follow-Up
Authors: Sharma Akshay , Thakur Kamparsh , Sharma Anita , Prasad Manish
Published: January 2024

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) of the knee are mostly due to a single organism, very rarely, it is due to dual organisms, and even rarer are dual Gram-negative bacilli and fungal infections. Most fungal infections are caused by Candida albicans; however, very few case reports are available for nonalbicans Candida in immunocompetent patients. We report an unusual case of nonalbicans Candida infection with Gram-negative bacilli in the knee joint with no predisposing risk factors. A 59-year-old man reported following mild pain, swelling, and restricted knee movements in a case of a primary total knee arthroplasty. The patient had minimal symptoms but had gross lysis around implants on imaging. His inflammatory markers were significantly high and knee aspiration was turbid, with raised polymorphs without any conclusive staining result. The culture reports revealed a fungal and Gram-negative organism infection. The patient was managed by debridement, prosthesis removal and antibiotic-loaded cement spacer insertion, and culture-specific antibiotics, followed by revision TKA and oral fluconazole therapy. The patient had a good clinical performance at 3 months and 1-year follow-up visits, with a painless range of motion of 10°–90° and there was no evidence of recurrence of infection. Dual Gram-negative and fungal prosthetic joint infection is a rare but serious complication. In the presence of mild clinical symptoms, but extensive lysis around the implant, fungal pathology should be considered irrespective of the immune status of the patient.
“Push and Park” Microdrilling Technique for Chondral Lesions of the Patella: A Technical Note
Authors: Sahanand Santosh , Chellamuthu Girinivasan , Rajan David V.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The most used treatment modality for chondral lesions of the patella, particularly when the lesion is <2 cm2, is microdrilling. However, reduced working space and mobility of the patella make this procedure technically difficult. To bypass this technical difficulty, we describe a simple technique of “Push and park” for microdrilling of the chondral lesions of the patella.

Materials and Methods:

Patients operated on by this technique in 2021 were followed for 1 year. Patients operated for magnetic resonance imaging-proven International Cartilage Repair Society grade III and IV patellofemoral chondral lesions (PFCLs) that are localized and <2 cm2 with or without other concomitant knee pathologies were included. The functional outcomes were evaluated using the Tegner Lysholm score and Kujala score.

Results:

Twenty-one patients were included in the study. Of these, 7 cases had isolated PFCL, 8 cases had associated medial meniscal posterior horn root tears, and the remaining 6 cases had anterior cruciate ligament injuries. The mean follow-up period was 14 (±2) months. The average age was 41 (±7) years. We had 12 female and 9 male patients. The Tegner Lysholm and Kujala scores improved significantly in all the patients at 1-year postsurgery (P = 0.035 and P = 0.026, respectively).

Conclusion:

We have described a simple and reproducible technique for microdrilling of difficult-to-access patellar lesions. When used appropriately, the technique can be a cost-effective method of managing the chondral lesions of the patella.
Antifungal activity of Morinda citrifolia methanolic extract against Candida albicans:: An in vitro study
Authors: Medrano-Colmenares Sara M , Ladera-Castañeda Marysela , Cornejo-Pinto Alberto , Cervantes-Ganoza Luis A , López-Gurreonero Carlos , Garcia-Luna Goretty , Cayo-Rojas César F
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Aim:

Natural medicine used as an alternative and/or complementary treatment to counteract diseases is of great importance in public health. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to assess thein vitroantifungal activity ofMorinda citrifoliamethanolic extract of peel, pulp, and seed againstCandida albicans.

Materials and Methods:

The present study was experimentalin vitroand cross-sectional. Eight replicates were prepared inSabouraud dextroseagar with five wells each, where 0.12% chlorhexidine, distilled water, and methanolic extract of seed, peel, and pulp ofMorinda citrifoliafruit were placed at concentrations of 10,690, 8,270, and 6,430 mg/mL, respectively, to evaluate sensitivity according to Duraffourd’s scale. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) were determined by dilution and agar seeding method. Statistical analysis was performed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’spost hoctest, considering a significance level ofP< 0.05.

Results:

The inhibition halos ofMorinda citrifoliamethanolic extract of seed, peel, and pulp againstCandida albicansmeasured on average 15.94, 11.94, and 11.56 mm, respectively. The MIC of seed, peel, and pulp extract were 1366.25, 2067.5, and 1607.5 mg/mL respectively, whereas the MFC for seed, peel, and pulp extract were 2672.50, 2067.5, and 3215 mg/mL, respectively. Moreover, seed extract presented significantly higher antifungal activity than peel and pulp (P< 0.001).

Conclusions:

Morinda citrifoliamethanolic extract of peel, pulp, and seed showed fungistatic and fungicidal effect againstCandida albicans, being this very sensitive to seed extract with a MIC of 1366.25 mg/mL and a MFC of 2672.5 mg/mL, which allows recommending the development of effective pharmacological formulations for the control of candidiasis.
Periodontitis and neuropathic diseases: A literature review
Authors: Cabanillas Jesus , Risco Ruth , Munive-Degregori Arnaldo , Guerrero Maria Eugenia , Mauricio Franco , Mayta-Tovalino Frank
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Objective:

This narrative review aimed at identifying the existing scientific literature investigating periodontitis and neuropathic diseases.

Materials and Methods:

A search of the literature published between 2000 and 2022 was carried out in the electronic databases of Scopus and PubMed. Studies in which the eligible articles were mainly published in English were included. Descriptive correlational studies, case–control studies, comparative studies, and cohort studies were also included. The following main keywords were used: “Neuropathic diseases,” “Periodontitis,” “Alzheimer’s disease,” and “Porphyromonas gingivalis.”

Results:

This narrative review found that cognitively impaired persons with severe periodontitis had a higher prevalence and incidence of periodontal diseases than the rest of the population. A significant positive correlation of salivary interleukin (IL)-1beta and immediate recall scores involved in cognition was also evident. It indicates that the most investigated parameter was whether there is any common link between periodontal disease and neurodegeneration. No randomized controlled clinical studies were found in the current literature review.

Conclusion:

Based on the literature reviewed, there is currently no strong scientific evidence to support or discourage the cause–effect relationship of periodontal diseases and neurodegenerative diseases.
Parental experience with an ocular genetic counseling services in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alizary Areej , Ahmad Khabir , Al Bakri Amani
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

This study reports parental attitudes towards preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) and their satisfaction with genetic counseling services offered by a territory eye care hospital in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study of 30 parents (either father or mother) of children affected by recessive genetic ocular disorders. Their basic knowledge of recessive genetic disorders, attitude toward PGD, and satisfaction with counseling services were assessed using structured telephonic interviews.

RESULTS:

Eighty percent of the participants understood the concept of recessive inheritance patterns and the effect of consanguineous marriages on raising the likelihood of giving birth to a child with genetic disorders. Forty-seven percent of parents understood the risk of having an affected future offspring. Sixty-seven percent of them mentioned that they would consider using preventive measures when conceiving next time. Seventy-three percent of participants stated that they would share the genetic test results with family members. Ninety percent of the parents were satisfied with the genetic counselor’s ability to listen to them and the way the counselor explained the genetic information. There was a statistically significant association between parental willingness to share genetic test results with relatives and being given the opportunity to share information with their genetic counselor (P = 0.01). There was no association between the parental’s knowledge and their willingness to consider using preventative measures in the next pregnancy.

CONCLUSION:

Most parents had a basic understanding of recessive disease. However, they often struggled to comprehend the science and mathematical probabilities determining the recurrence risk in future pregnancies. This complexity makes it difficult for them to recall the information. Attitude toward PGD did not seem to be related with parent knowledge. A significant proportion of the parents expressed willingness to share their genetic test results with relatives, but some were hesitant due to fears of stigma. Most parents were satisfied with genetic counseling services.
The prevalence of pseudoexfoliation syndrome in King Hamad University Hospital
Authors: Rajmohan Archchana , Rahimi Parastou , Nusef Aysha , Ahmed Aysha , Mian Muhammad A.
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of pseudoexfoliation syndrome in patients with cataracts in King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) and rates of complication in pseudoexfoliation (PXF) patients postoperatively and 2-year follow-up.

METHODS:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on medical records of PXF patients who underwent phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract extraction in KHUH, Bahrain, between August 31, 2016, and December 30, 2018.

RESULTS:

From the 458 cases analyzed, there were 17 patients with PXF (3.71%). One patient per-operatively experienced posterior capsular repture (5.88%). Zero patients experienced complication in 2 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

This is the first study investigating the prevalence rate of PXF in Bahrain and rates of complication for PXF patients undergoing cataract surgery. This study contributes to further understanding the epidemiology of this disease and its racial variation, for PXF patients to better understand the rate of risks involved in cataract surgery, and for surgeons to create appropriate surgical plans that help reduce the risk of complications commonly seen in these patients.
IoT-Based Shoe for Enhanced Mobility and Safety of Visually Impaired Individuals
Authors: Singh Bakshish , Ekvitayavetchanuku Pongkit , Shah Bharti , Sirohi Neeraj , Pundhir Prachi
Published: January 2024

This research paper presents the design, development, and evaluation of an Internet of Things (IoT)- based shoe system to enhance the mobility and safety of visually impaired individuals. The proposed shoe leverages IoT technologies, embedded sensors, and wireless communication to provide real-time information and assistance to blind individuals during their daily activities. The system encompasses a wearable shoe device equipped with sensors, a microcontroller unit, and a companion mobile application that relays important data and alerts the user. The effectiveness of the IoT-based shoe is evaluated through a series of user tests and feedback surveys. The results demonstrate the potential of this innovative solution to empower blind individuals, improve their independence, and promote a safer environment for their navigation.
$C^{\ast}$-algebraic approach to the principal symbol. III
Authors: Kordyukov Yuri , Sukochev Fedor , Zanin Dmitriy
Published: January 2024

We treat the notion of principal symbol mapping on a compact smooth manifold as a

\ast

-homomorphism of

C^{\ast}

-algebras. Principal symbol mapping is built from the ground, without referring to the pseudodifferential calculus on the manifold. Our concrete approach allows us to extend Connes trace theorem for compact Riemannian manifolds.
Knot as a complete invariant of a Morse-Smale 3-diffeomorphism with four fixed points
Authors: Pochinka Olga Vital'evna , Talanova Elena Anatol'evna , Shubin Danila Denisovich
Published: January 2024

It is known that the topological conjugacy class of a Morse-Smale flows with unique saddle is defined by the equivalence class of the Hopf knot in $\mathbb S^2\times\mathbb S^1$ that is the projection of the one-dimensional saddle separatrix onto the basin of attraction of the nodal point, and the ambient manifold of a diffeomorphism in this class is the 3-sphere. In the present paper a similar result is obtained for gradient-like diffeomorphisms with exactly two saddle points and unique heteroclinic curve.
Bibliography: 11 titles.
Explicit deformation of the horospherical variety of type $\mathrm{G}_2$
Authors: Kuznetsov Alexander Gennad'evich
Published: January 2024

We give two simple geometric constructions of a smooth family of projective varieties with central fiber isomorphic to the horospherical variety of type $\mathrm{G}_2$ and all other fibers isomorphic to the isotropic orthogonal Grassmannian $\operatorname{OGr}(2,7)$, and we discuss briefly the derived category of this family.
Bibliography: 8 titles.
International neglect in the Rwandan genocide; lessons missed in Somalia that would have been prevented the Mogadishu syndrome
Authors: Makama Funom Theophilus
Published: January 2024

This review which has three objectives is aimed at negating the myth that the ‘shadow of Somalia’ was responsible for the international neglect in Rwanda which enabled the 1994 Genocide. The first objective is to discuss the differences in the methodology of operations between the various peace keeping actors and identify the challenges that occurred during the peace keeping operations in Somalia. The second objective is to highlight some of the lessons that would have been learnt from the differences in operational tactics and strategies, and maybe the “syndrome of Mogadishu” would not have happened which spilled over to the Rwandan neglect. The third objective is to use a normative approach to highlight the importance of military interventions as an important component of humanitarianism in cases such as Rwanda, discussing theoretical concepts to develop effective approaches to this humanitarian need. This literature review is a product of the synthesis of information from various peer-reviewed publications from academic databases. The events that happened in Somalia will be critically analyzed to demonstrate the actual cause of the “shadow of Somalia.” Humanitarian intervention is then recommended to be implemented when war or armed conflict of genocidal proportion occurs in a sovereign state.
Insulin-sensitizing and antioxidant effects of Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueous extract in dexamethasone-induced insulin resistant rats
Authors: Kamani Poualeu Sylviane Laure , Nchouwet Moïse Legentil , Miaffo David , Mba Elouga Mapimpim Gabrielle , Demeni Kadji Chrystelle , Waguia Kamgaing Jordane , Djimeli Douho Rostand Cyrille , Kamanyi Albert , Ngnokam Wansi Sylvie Lea
Published: January 2024

Rising the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in sub-saharian Africa has necessitated surveys of antidiabetic medicinal plants. Ethulia conyzoïdes is a plant widely used in traditional medicine to treat diabetes. However, the different mechanisms by which it exerts its antidiabetic effects remain unknown. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the effect of Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueoux extract on dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance in Wistar rats. Insulin resistance was induced by intraperitoneal injection of dexamethasone (1mg/kg) for 8 days and the animals received simultaneously, orally, distilled water (insulin resistant control group) and, metformin (100 mg/kg) or Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueoux extract at doses of 133 and 266 mg/kg. Normal control rats received NaCl 0.9% (intraperitoneal by injection) and distilled water orally. Insulin sensitivity, total cholesterol, triglycerides, transaminases activity and redox status were evaluated. Results showed a significant reduction of insulin tolerance (p<0.001), a drastic increased of transaminase activity (p<0.05), hyperlipidemia, and a great potentiation of liver antioxidant enzymes (GSH, SOD and catalase) in insulin resistant control group. Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueoux extract markedly improved insulin sensitivity and reversed all the modified parameters. This study demonstrated the efficacy of Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueoux extract to improve insulin sensitivity and manage biochemical disorders induced by insulin resistance. Short term administration of dexamethasone appears to stimulate the first line antioxidant defense in order to counteract oxidative stress, meaning that Ethulia conyzoïdes aqueoux extract inhibited free radicals production.
Creation, Sin, Wisdom: Interpreting Genesis 1- 3 in Its Ancient Near Eastern Context
Authors: Mazzinghi Luca
Published: January 2024

The paper studies Gen 2-3 as one large narrative unit consisting of the second creation narrative (Gen 2:4b-25) and the account of the fall (Gen 3) to answer two questions: Who are human beings? Why is evil present in the world? An attentive reading of Gen 2-3 in the light of the Exodus event reveals that a human being is a free and responsible creature of God, who does not know how to deal with his/her freedom and responsibility. Though humans refused God’s offer of salvation and crossed the limits of their createdness, and consequently were punished, they have also experienced the forgiveness of God. Therefore, while Gen 2 represents God’s creative action and his plan for humankind, Gen 3 epitomizes human failure to welcome God’s gift, which God punishes, offering at the same time his mercy and forgiveness.
Sanggenon C ameliorates chronic stress induced depressive behaviors
Authors: Qin Yuxi , Zheng Jing , Jiang Leiming
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Sanggenon C on depression caused by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) in Wistar rats.

Methods: The anti-depression effect of Sanggenon C was assessed using a forced swimming test and sucrose preference assay. Open-field test was performed to measure CUMS-induced locomotor alteration while histological analyses of the hippocampus and cortex were performed using hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) stains. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining was employed to evaluate apoptosis. In addition, expressions of Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved caspase-3, LC3, Beclin, P62 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as well as phosphorylation level of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) were evaluated by Western blot.

Results: Sanggenon C significantly elevated sucrose preference, reduced immobility time in the forced swimming test, and enlarged squares crossed and rearing times in open-field CUMS rats (p < 0.05). Sanggenon C ameliorated nuclear shrinkage and damage in the hippocampus or cortex. Sanggenon C also regulated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase-3), as well as autophagy-associated molecules (LC3, Beclin and p62). Furthermore, Sanggenon C enhanced the expression of BDNF and phosphorylation of AMPK.

Conclusion: Sanggenon C inhibits apoptosis, induces neuronal autophagy, and improves depressive behavior and neuroprotection via activation of AMPK pathway in CUMS rats. However, further research is needed to fully understand the clinical significance of Sanggenon C-mediated AMPK activation in different cellular contexts as potential drug targets.
Efficacy of modified Park’s technique in the treatment of children with strabismus
Authors: Li Yibao , Zhang Rui , Lu Min , Su Yu
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of modified Park’s technique in children with strabismus.

Methods: A total of 120 patients were recruited in the Department of Ophthalmology, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Anhui, China between January 2019 and December 2021. The patients were divided into study and control groups comprising 60 patients each. Control group underwent rectus muscle adjustment suture using standard incision, while study group received modified Park’s technique, which involved intermuscular membrane incision and conjunctiva two-layer suture method. Various parameters such as perioperative indicators, tear film function, and patient satisfaction were assessed.

Results: The study group had significantly lower intraoperative blood loss, duration of surgery and length of hospital stay (p < 0.01). Also, it showed significantly higher Schirmer’s time, tear film break-up time (TFBUT) time and significantly lower corneal staining score (p < 0.01). Satisfaction level was significantly higher in the study group compared to control group (p < 0.05). So also was clinical efficacy (91.67 %) compared to control group (83.33 %). Furthermore, study group exhibited significantly lower incidence of complications (5) compared to control group (11; p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Enhanced Park’s technique improves perioperative indicators, tear film function, and satisfaction level; it also produces high efficacy and lower incidence of complications. This suggests that it might be a viable substitute for conventional treatment of children with exotropia. However, long-term follow-up data will be required to establish the superiority of this treatment strategy.
Effect of the combination of respiratory care with bronchodilators on pulmonary function, psychological well being, and health behaviors in COPD patients
Authors: Zhang Qundan , Wang Juan , Lu Shuangping
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the effect of combining respiratory care with bronchodilators on pulmonary function, psychological well-being, and health behavior in patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Method: A retrospective analysis was conducted with 90 COPD patients treated in the First People's Hospital of Fuyang, Hangzhou, China between January 2021 and January 2023. Patients were divided into budegopher group (26 patients), symbicor group (28 patients), and combination group (36 patients treated with budegopher plus respiratory care). Lung function, psychological state (Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS) and Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Health Behavior Scale (HPL), and any observed adverse reactions among these groups were recorded.

Results: Significant differences were observed in lung function such as forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) among the three groups after treatment. Symbicor group showed superior results compared to budegopher group while combination group showed better improvement than budegopher group, and symbicor group (p < 0.001). Pairwise comparisons of psychological state (SAS and SDS) and health behavior (HPL) revealed variations among groups. Lung function parameters (FEV1, FVC) had negative correlations with negative psychological attitudes (SAS, SDS) and moderate positive correlations with health-promoting behaviors (HPL). Negative psychological attitudes (SAS, SDS) were moderately and negatively correlated with health-promoting behaviors (HPL).

Conclusion: Combining respiratory care with bronchodilators demonstrates notable potential to enhance pulmonary function, alleviate negative psychological states, promote healthful behaviors, and expedite the recovery process for COPD patients. However, subtle variations in the therapeutic effects of different drugs may exist, warranting further investigation.
MARCH9, a potential target for the treatment of acute pancreatitis, inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome mediated pyroptosis
Authors: Jin Yuzhou , Ma Na , Lin Min , Huang Jin
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the regulatory mechanism of membrane associated ring-CH-type finger 9 (MARCH9) in acute pancreatitis (AP).

Methods: Fifteen AP patients admitted in Changzhou Second People's Hospital Nanjing, China and fifteen healthy individuals participated in this study. MARCH9 expression in serum samples taken from the subjects was assayed. To establish an AP cell model, rat pancreatic acinar (PA) cells were induced with ceruletide and then transfected with MARCH9 overexpression vector. The MARCH9 level and molecular structure, which are related to pyroptosis and inflammatory cytokines, were determined. Cell survival rate and caspase 1 activity was assessed.

Results: MARCH9 was lowly expressed in AP patients’ serum and in ceruletide-induced PA cells. Overexpression of MARCH9 enhanced the survival rate of ceruletide-induced PA cells and reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines and molecules associated with pyroptosis. MARCH9 overexpression led to a decrease in caspase 1 activity in ceruletide-induced PA cells. Additionally, the overexpression of MARCH9 had a negative regulatory effect on the levels of IL6, p-STAT3/STAT3 and p-JAK2/JAK2 in PA cells induced by ceruletide.

Conclusion: Overexpression of MARCH9 suppresses NLRP3-induced pyroptosis in PA cells through the regulation of IL6/JAK/STAT3 pathway, thus offerimg insights for the potential management of AP.
Disintegration testing for orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs): An overview
Authors: Bafail Rawan SM
Published: January 2024

Prescribing orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) dosage form is a common practice. For several populations, including geriatrics and pediatrics, ODTs are one of the most desired dosage forms. They are solid dosage forms designed to disintegrate or dissolve very quickly in contact with saliva as soon as they are placed in oral cavity of a patient. According to United States Pharmacopeia (USP), every dosage form has to pass some quality control tests to ensure uniformity and performance of this dosage form. For ODTs, disintegration test is fundamental to ascertain time required for tablets to break down and release their contents for dissolution and absorption. Additionally, it is a crucial predictive test for determining in vitro/in vivo association. There are no mandatory universal disintegration testing standards for ODTs, however, as stated in the USP. Instead, recent USP refers to individual manufacturer monograph specifications which may vary from one monograph to another. This article discusses several developed disintegration tests and methods for ODTs such as OD-mate testing, basket rack assembly, CCD camera, texture analyzer (TA), special disintegration equipment, prototype disintegration tester (PDT), simple approach, and modified wetting test and elaborates on their advantages and disadvantages.
Combining Runmu fengye tang preparation with hydroxysugar glycolic acid eye drops regulates Th17/Treg balance to treat dry eyes via inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Wen Zhonghua , Li Shulin , Tian Jia , Wang Wei , Zheng Liu , Tao Ping
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To determine effective therapies for the prevention and clinical treatment of dry eye.

Methods: A scopolamine-induced dry eye rabbit model was administrated with Runmu Fengliang tang (RMFS) and hypromellose 2910, dextran 70 and glycerol eye drops (HGA). Schirmer's I test (SIt), break-up time (BUT) and histopathologic examinations (H&E) were used to assess dry eye symptoms and lacrimal gland damage. Flow cytometry was used to determine the number of apoptotic cells and percentages of Th17 and Treg, while Western blot assay was used to evaluate the expression of proteins related to JAK2/STAT3 pathway.

Results: The combination of RMFS with HGA significantly increased tear secretion (p < 0.001), shortened tear break-up time (p < 0.001), repaired ocular surface damage and reduced apoptosis (p < 0.05) in the scopolamine-induced dry eye model in rabbits, compared with the single-administration group. In addition, it regulated the Th17/Treg-related cytokine balance and inhibited the JAK2/SATA3 pathway.

Conclusion: The combination of RMFS and HGA alleviate dry eye symptoms by inhibiting the JAK2/SATA3 pathway in model rabbits induced by scopolamine and this treatment could be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of dry eye disease. Future studies should focus on clinical data collection to investigate the efficacy and safety of the combination.
Egyptian Vulture Online Conference Roundtable Sessions
Authors: Authors
Published: January 2024

Abstracts in fulltexts.
Threats and Mitigation
Authors: Authors
Published: January 2024

Abstracts in fulltext.
Engagement with Communities and Communication Campaigns
Authors: Authors
Published: January 2024

Abstracts in fulltext.
Before and After COVID-19 : A Comparative Analysis of EFL Learning Responses Among First-year College Students
Authors: Chong Cinthia M.
Published: January 2024

This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the perspectives and experiences of first-year college students in EFL learning. Employing a comprehensive research approach, the study utilizes three primary research tools: surveys, self-evaluations, and academic performance grades. The primary objectives are to understand the shifts in first-year college students’ levels of anxiety and confidence, attitudes, self-perceptions on Englis proficiency, and academic outcomes influenced by the pandemic and to contribute valuable insights to the field of EFL education after the pandemic era.Through a comparative analysis, the study contrasts the responses of 62 first-year college students in 2018, unaffected by the pandemic during their secondary education period, with those of 69 first-year college students in 2023 who experienced the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Contrary to initial assumptions of a negative shift post-COVID-19, the study reveals predominantly positive sentiments in 2023, marked by a significant increase in positivity toward English learning. However, a polarized distribution in self-evaluations emerges, reflecting a significant divergence in students' opinions regarding their English proficiency.The study further explores the academic performance of first-year college students, comparing those before and after the pandemic. An examination of their academic performance grades reveals that the number of first-year college students scoring 80 or higher did not significantly differ between the 2018 and 2023 classes. However, there appears to be a trend towards lower academic scores in 2023 compared to 2018. Concurrently, multiple factors may contribute, one being the observed increase in absenteeism among first-year college students of 2023. This suggests a lasting impact, influencing attendance scores, class attitudes and participation, assignment submissions, and even exam performance. The rise in lower academic scores in 2023, particularly those below 70 (D or below), highlights challenges faced by students in the post-COVID-19 era. This underscores the difficulties encountered by these students during the pandemic period. A clear contrast emerges between first-year college students in 2018 and 2023, as well as among 2023 first-year college students with well-adapted abilities and those facing difficulties.Recognizing and addressing these distinctions is imperative for educators and institutions to provide effective support, acknowledging and nurturing the strengths while aiding students who require additional assistance. This study may contribute to bridging the gap in understanding these differences and challenges among students after the pandemic.
Development of Basic Chemistry Course Based on Blended Learning to Cultivate Scientific Competencies
Authors: Hong Seongyoun , Hwang Eunkyung
Published: January 2024

Basic science education in university serves as both a basic education and general education, responding to social demands for the teaching of content knowledge and the cultivation of scientific competencies. This study aimed to design and implement a competency-based blended learning approach (the experimental group) and a face-to-face lecture-centered approach (the control group) for the course “General Chemistry” to develop both content knowledge and scientific competencies, comparing changes and differences in scientific competencies, academic achievement, and course satisfaction. The experimental group acquired content knowledge through video lectures in a distance setting and developed scientific competencies through face-to-face activities emphasizing scientific problem-solving and writing. On the other hand, the control group received lecture-based instruction focusing on content knowledge. Finally, all classes were conducted face-to-face in a classroom. Both experimental and control group classes were led by the same instructor during the same semester for students of  at A University, with 23 participants in the experimental group and 24 participants in the control group. Results revealed positive improvements in scientific competencies, specifically in “scientific inquiry” and “scientific communication skills,” for the experimental group, while the control group experienced a decline in “scientific participation and lifelong learning” competencies. Although there was no statistically significant difference in academic achievement, the control group's average was generally higher than that of the experimental group. Conversely, course satisfaction was generally higher for the experimental group compared to the control group. Finally, some implications are suggested for instructors aiming to design blended competency-based courses.
A Study on the Potential of Site-Specific Theatre as Content for Liberal Arts Education
Authors: Jang Youngji
Published: January 2024

This study proposes a teaching model for liberal arts education utilizing site-specific theater and examines its implications. By exploring various theoretical backgrounds and practical examples related to place-specific theater, the course covers a variety of concepts and deepens students' knowledge of theater. Theoretical explorations are followed by practical activities that encourage creative and critical thinking and provide opportunities to exercise the theatrical imagination. Practical activities provide learners with important experiences that allow them to see everyday spaces in a new light and to extend theater to personal and social meanings. There are also opportunities for students to watch and critique the work of other learners and to reflect on their own work in order to consolidate their knowledge and experience and to acquire new questions. The whole process is an educational one that leads to embodied knowledge. This study argues that theater, especially place-specific theater, is suitable content for liberal arts education, promoting learners' creativity and critical thinking skills, and offering another model of practice.
Exploration of Factors Influencing the Satisfaction of Liberal Arts Education in the Organizing and Operating of Liberal Arts Education in a Junior College
Authors: Moon Young-bit
Published: January 2024

This study aims to determine how the college-authorities level variables such as the development, organization, operation, and facilities of liberal arts education affect students' satisfaction of liberal arts education courses through their class participation attitude and the degree of their competency improvement. For this purpose, a survey was conducted among students at a vocational college. The questionnaire covered of demand reflection, curriculum organization, course composition, teaching and learning and evaluation methods, support facilities, class participation attitude, perception of competency improvement, and satisfaction. To check the relationship between these variables, we examined the fitting and validity of the measurement model and structural model, and then analyzed them using the structural equation model. The results showed that teaching and learning and evaluation methods, support facilities, and perception of competency improvement were variables that directly affected student satisfaction of liberal arts education. At the same time, the results also showed that demand reflection, curriculum organization, course composition, and instructional attitude were indirectly affected. Teaching and learning, and assessment methods and support facilities, which are directly related to students, seem to have a relatively large impact on student satisfaction with liberal arts education. Nevertheless, in order to improve liberal arts education, more attention to its overall operation practices at the college-authorities level is necessary.
Development of University General Education Classes using Microlearning and Analysis of Class Satisfaction
Authors: Park Hyun Jin , Jung Seung Eun
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to present the development and operation of liberal arts classes using microlearning content and to analyze class satisfaction to examine the necessity and applicability of microlearning classes in university liberal arts education. Developed by reflecting microlearning characteristics, tClass is a one-credit class designed to be available in a nonlinear manner for five weeks. After this course, a satisfaction survey of all remote classes and tClass students was conducted to find out the level of satisfaction of learners and focus group interviews were additionally conducted with four applicants. As a result of the study, both timeliness and accessibility were high due to the nature of remote classes, and tClass showed a high level of satisfaction among the students, especially when it came to the learning materials and the accessibility of the items. On the other hand, poor concentration, boredom, and a lack of willingness to learn were found to be obstacles for remote classes. Based on the above research results, the suggestions are as follows. 1) In order to better implement the characteristics of microlearning, sufficient prior coordination is needed to determine whether or not we should change the academic system. 2) In order to develop microlearning, it is important to set an appropriate lecture topic and a suitable level of class difficulty. 3) There is a need to design learning activities that can help students take a leading role regarding their own learning and inspection. 4) In order to improve learners' concentration and understanding, video production methods need to be diversified and their level of completion needs to be increased. It is hoped that the results of this study will be used as basic data to develop microlearning classes in universities and to enhance learning effects.
Analyzing the Experience of Participating in a Mentoring Program for Academic Alert College Students Through Text Network Analysis
Authors: Choi Sehee , Kweon Haesoo , Sim Hyunjin
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study is to identify the effect of personal participation and interaction through activity sheets created in a course called Mentoring Program for Graders. In doing so, this study provides educational implications by examining the experiences of all students who participated in the programs operated in the university through the visualization of text network analysis methods and network analysis. The target audience is a total of 86 teams and 176 participants in the mentoring program for merit credits at a four-year university in G City. The program consisted of a total of 5 sessions, and participants wrote an activity report after each session. After obtaining consent for data collection and use, the contents of the activity sheets and impressions were collected, and data analysis was carried out using MAXQDA. As a result of the study, 456 codes were coded in the mentee experience, and the main keywords according to the frequency of the codes were ‘improvement of learning attitude’ and ‘enhancement of self-efficacy’. In the mentor experience, there were 411 codes, and as a result of the coding, ‘growing by helping the mentee’ and ‘pace maker’ were derived as the main keywords. Finally, a total of 1,483 codes were coded in the interaction experience, and the main keywords were ‘companionship’ and ‘steady communication’. Finally, based on the results of the code system analysis of each experience, network analysis was carried out to visually confirm Code map, and the structural analysis according to the cluster was presented. Based on these results, we proposed a plan to increase the effectiveness of the mentoring program for graders.