bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of artificial intelligence and digital technology-based diagnostic tools for communicable and non-communicable diseases in Africa
Authors: Obi Chikwelu L. , Olowoyo Joshua O. , Malevu Thembinkosi D. , Mugivhisa Lizwe L. , Hungwe Taurai , Ogunrombi Modupe O. , Mkolo Nqobile M. 
Published: November 2024

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, as advanced human-created tools, are influencing the healthcare sector.Aim: This review provides a comprehensive and structured exploration of the opportunities presented by AI and digital technology to laboratory diagnostics and management of communicable and non-communicable diseases in Africa.Methods: The study employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews, Meta-Analyses guidelines and Bibliometric analysis as its methodological approach. Peer-reviewed publications from 2000 to 2024 were retrieved from PubMed®, Web of Science™ and Google Scholar databases.Results: The study incorporated a total of 1563 peer-reviewed scientific documents and, after filtration, 37 were utilised for systematic review. The findings revealed that AI and digital technology play a key role in patient management, quality assurance and laboratory operations, including healthcare decision-making, disease monitoring and prognosis. Metadata reflected the disproportionate research outputs distribution across Africa. In relation to non-communicable diseases, Egypt, South Africa, and Morocco lead in cardiovascular, diabetes and cancer research. Representing communicable diseases research, Algeria, Egypt, and South Africa were prominent in HIV/AIDS research. South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Egypt lead in malaria and tuberculosis research.Conclusion: Facilitation of widespread adoption of AI and digital technology in laboratory diagnostics across Africa is critical for maximising patient benefits. It is recommended that governments in Africa allocate more funding for infrastructure and research on AI to serve as a catalyst for innovation.What this study adds: This review provides a comprehensive and context-specific analysis of AI’s application in African healthcare.
Exploring the job resources experienced by employees with hearing impairment in South Africa
Authors: Chelius Strauss , Jonker Bouwer E. , Brouwers Marissa 
Published: November 2024

Orientation: The United Nations Agenda of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 8, and specifically target 8.5, highlights the employment of people with disabilities (PWD). The current study sheds light on job characteristics that employees with hearing impairments (EwHIs) experience as job resources.Research purpose: This study aimed to explore the aspects that EwHIs might regard as job resources within the South African context.Motivation for the study: The paucity of research in South Africa on disability matters in the workplace, and EwHIs in particular, served as motivation for this study.Research approach/design and method: This study used an exploratory, qualitative research approach and the social constructivism paradigm to explore the job resources of EwHIs in South Africa. In addition, a descriptive phenomenological design was used to deeply understand the participants’ lived experiences. Participants (N = 14) were identified with a purposive sampling technique and data were collected with open-ended, deaf-friendly questionnaires. Inductive qualitative content analysis was used to analyse the data.Main findings: Firstly, EwHIs learn from subordinates and work associates. Secondly, constructive social affiliation, learning and challenges seem to motivate EwHIs. Lastly, task accomplishment is facilitated by adequate communication, orientation and assistance.Practical/managerial implications: The findings of the current study have implications for policy, practice and decision-making. Broadly stated, the learning, motivation and task completion of EwHIs are functions of social integration and effective communication in the workplace.Contribution/value-add: This study is the first of its kind in South Africa and provides insight into job characteristics that EwHIs regard as job resources.
Safe spaces for marginalised young people: Ambivalent pastoral engagement of Pentecostal churches in the slums of Guatemala
Authors: Bär Martina 
Published: November 2024

Many marginalised young people in Guatemala City, one of the poorest and most dangerous cities in the world, face a bleak future. Faced with poor prospects, many turn to the Mara youth gangs, where crime and drug abuse are part of everyday life. The Pentecostal churches offer an alternative to the power of the Mara gangs. They offer safe spaces for young people as they are respected by the Maras. In this way, they open up a path to resocialisation and rehabilitation. However, the rehabilitated young people also criticise the Pentecostal churches, especially the neo-Pentecostal churches, which promote the prosperity gospel. On the one hand, the article reflects on the ambivalent role of Pentecostal churches for marginalised young people and, on the other hand, points to the relevance of a politically motivated liberation theology that is committed to a just society in this world. Marginalised young people need solidarity, social justice and liberation from violence. In view of the ‘culture of violence’ in Guatemala, the practical liberation theology D. Aguilar Ramírez proposes a peace-building process based on a non-violent God. This approach could contribute to the comprehensive healing of marginalised young people and their culture.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article makes it clear that pastoral practice is a critical corrective for Christian doctrine and ecclesiology. Qualitative empirical research should be strengthened as an analytical instrument of practical theology. This requires stronger interdisciplinary cooperation between theology and sociology.
Just housing: Transdisciplinary perspectives from theology and the built environment
Authors: Wabel Thomas , De Beer Stephanus F. 
Published: November 2024

In cities worldwide, housing is precarious. Local socio-economic environments can exacerbate existing social differences and exclusions, but can also contribute to alleviate these differences, and to foster high levels of social inclusion. This article introduces a special collection of articles asking how theology should contribute theologically to address the challenges of housing and human settlements. It derives from an assertion that theology and reflection on the built environment should engage each other, made concrete in this collection through exploring issues of housing justice. We explore the question of housing justice with reference to four related questions: (1) How can urban planning interventions enhance affordable, sustainable and aesthetically appealing housing for all? (2) What are the political, economic and legal conditions impacting on housing justice, and how can theologians engage in these spaces? (3) How can exclusionary or precarious conditions be addressed architecturally to contribute to ecological sustainability, aesthetics and affordability? (4) What are the dominant social imaginaries that mediate housing and settlement development, and how can theologians help foster inclusive and just social imaginaries? Examples from different countries, cities and socio-cultural contexts are introduced and reflected upon, seeking to identify conditions that enable affordable, sustainable and aesthetically attractive housing in an unequal and precarious world.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The article points out the relevance of a theological perspective on the housing problem. At the same time, the implications for architecture, urban planning and politics are addressed.
Diagnostic Accuracy of MDCT Coronary Angiography in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Kumari Arti , Toppo Suresh Kumar , Kumar Prakash , Ranjan Rajeev Kumar , Xalxo Anima R. , Rai Nisha , Kaur Harsha 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
One of the main causes of illness and death in both India and globally is coronary artery disease, or CAD. Previously, the majority of conventional catheter examinations were performed simply for diagnostic purposes. So, a noninvasive and trustworthy method was highly desirable for early CAD detection and coronary artery imaging.

Material and Methods:
Symptomatic patients attending the routine cardiac outpatient department at RIMS, Ranchi, who were advised to undergo coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for further evaluation in the Department of Radiodiagnosis were included.

Results:
A total of 101 symptomatic patients were studied for patency of coronary vessels in both CCTA and conventional coronary angiography. Based on the CCTA of the 101 patients, majority of the patients belong to single vessel disease. CCTA revealed 124 lesions, of which 101 were considered serious with a majority of lesions in the left anterior descending. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the multidetector computed tomography were 98.4, 91.7, 95, and 97.05%.

Conclusion:
CCTA is a good negative predictive value technique for coronary stenosis and is relatively trustworthy.
Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Contemporary and Novel Intracanal Medicaments against Enterococcus Faecalis - An In-vitro Study
Authors: Singh Divya , Jain Gaurav , Misra Pradyumna , Shukla Preeti , Verma Sheetal 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Endodontic treatment aims to preserve compromised teeth by eliminating microorganisms from the root canal system. Persistent root canal infections, especially those involving Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), can lead to treatment failure. This study evaluates the antimicrobial efficacy of both traditional and novel intracanal medicaments against E. faecalis.

Materials and Methods:
The study employed an in-vitro design to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of various intracanal medicament combinations against E. faecalis (ATCC 29212). The medicaments tested included 2% Chlorhexidine (CHX) combined with Alexidine, Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)2), Metronidazole, and Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs). Antimicrobial activity was determined using the disc diffusion method, and the zone of inhibition (ZOI) was measured at 24, 48, and 72 hours.

Results:
Group 1 (2% CHX + Alexidine) and Group 5 (2% CHX + Ca(OH)2) showed the highest initial antimicrobial efficacy at 24 hours, with mean ZOIs of 18.16 mm and 18.09 mm, respectively. At 48 and 72 hours, Group 4 (2% CHX + AgNPs) exhibited the highest efficacy with a mean ZOI of 16.17 mm. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between groups at all time intervals (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
The combination of traditional and novel intracanal medicaments, specifically CHX with Alexidine and CHX with AgNPs, significantly enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against E. faecalis. The combination of CHX and Alexidine demonstrated the highest initial activity, while CHX and AgNPs provided sustained antimicrobial effects.
Comparative Study of Periodontal Health in Patients with Fixed Braces Versus Clear Aligners
Authors: Shashikumar G. M. , Malthesh B.S. , Annamalaisamy Selvakumar , Shantharam Sreedhara , Kumar P Kiran 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Orthodontic therapy is often used to cure dental malocclusions; however, since orthodontic equipment is difficult to keep clean, it might have an adverse effect on periodontal health. Clear aligners and fixed braces are two common orthodontic treatments.

Materials and Methods:
In this research, 100 patients receiving orthodontic treatment at a dental clinic ranged in age from 18 to 35. Two sets of patients were created: 50 with transparent aligners and 50 with fixed braces. At baseline, three months, and six months, periodontal health was evaluated using the plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and probing depth (PD). Both groups received advice on oral hygiene. SPSS software was used for data analysis, with a significance level of P < 0.05 for statistical analysis.

Results:
PI, GI, and PD did not vary significantly between the two groups at baseline (P > 0.05). PI (2.3 ± 0.4) and GI (1.8 ± 0.3) in the fixed braces group were significantly higher after three months than in the clear aligners group (PI: 1.5 ± 0.3, GI: 1.2 ± 0.2, P < 0.05). At six months, the group using fixed braces had a substantially higher PD (3.5 ± 0.5 mm) than the group wearing transparent aligners (2.8 ± 0.4 mm, P < 0.05). Throughout the course of the trial, the group using transparent aligners had greater periodontal health.

Conclusion:
In comparison with patients wearing fixed braces, individuals using transparent aligners showed improved periodontal health, as seen by decreased levels of plaque buildup, gingival inflammation, and probing depth. For individuals who are worried about their periodontal health while undergoing orthodontic treatment, clear aligners could be a better choice.
Effect of Toxoplasma gondii Infection on the Level of Luteinizing and Follicle Stimulating Hormones in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Aziz Muna Jalal , Ali Abeer Abbas , Hameed Mohammed Fadhil , Abdullah Basima Ahmed 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is responsible for the most significant zoonotic illness in the world, Toxoplasmosis. It is possible for T. gondii to be transferred transplacentally from the mother to the fetus if it is contracted during pregnancy and causes abortion or congenital deformity.

Objective:
To investigate the correlation between polycystic ovarian syndrome and toxoplasmosis, as well as to examine certain related sex hormones, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).

Materials and Methods:
The current study was conducted at Kirkuk General Hospital and Gynaecological and Pediatric Hospital in Kirkuk city, Iraq, between November 1, 2022 and March 21, 2023. The study included 200 blood samples collected from women who had abortions. The serum used to measure levels of LH and FSH.

Results:
Out of the 200 aborted women, only 40 (20%) of them were PCO positive (poly cystic ovarian syndrome). The 40 positive PCO subjects were divided into four groups according to the presence of T. gondii antibodies: PCO +ve and Toxo IgM +ve (7.5%), PCO +ve and Toxo IgG +ve (15%), PCO +ve and Toxo IgM ‐ve (42.5%), PCO +ve and Toxo IgG ‐ve (35%).

Conclusion:
There were significant differences in the FSH and LH level in the study groups. The level of LH in four groups the highest mean was in Toxo IgM and PCO +ve (9.190 ± 3.710) with P value 0.046. In the level of FSH in four groups the highest mean was in Toxo IgG +ve and PCO +ve (8.776 ± 2.061) and the lowest mean was in Toxo IgM +ve and PCO +ve (5.790 ± 3.25) with a P value of 0.045.
EDUCAÇÃO SEM FRONTEIRAS
Authors: Godoy Daniela Rodrigues de , Costa Clidson Monteiro da , Queiroz Davi Cipriano de , Silva Monyque Kely Pinto Ribeiro Candido da , Santos Vanessa Aparecida Barbosa da Costa 
Published: November 2024

A educação desempenha um papel imprescindível nas relações humanas e é dentro deste contexto social que o sujeito se desenvolve de maneira pessoal, profissional e social. E a educação a distância tem se destacado como uma ferramenta eficaz para promover a inclusão educacional em diversos contextos, promovendo a personalização do aprendizado e eliminando barreiras geográficas, econômicas e sociais. Observou-se que a EAD é um recurso para as pessoas que anseiam por um processo educativo mais flexível, democrático e aberto, no qual o foco são os alunos e tutores, atuando como sujeitos de uma educação concreta, significativa e inclusiva. Ressalta-se a importância de refletir sobre a responsabilidade de preparar todos os envolvidos para essa nova modalidade de ensino, buscando alternativas para suprir as deficiências digitais. Em conclusão, o objetivo deste estudo foi conhecer e apresentar a educação a distância como perspectiva para a educação do futuro, identificando os benefícios e desafios da EAD. O presente artigo teve como metodologia uma pesquisa bibliográfica sobre o tema.
Exportaciones de cacao ecuatoriano y su incidencia en la producción durante el período 2008-2023
Authors: Mendoza Daniela , García Odalys , Rivera Velasco José Luis , Jadán Katty 
Published: November 2024

Ecuador ha mantenido una posición destacada en el mercado global del cacao debido a la alta calidad de su producto, reconocido mundialmente por su aroma y sabor. La calidad superior del cacao ecuatoriano ha sido un factor clave en el incremento de las exportaciones, especialmente hacia mercados exigentes como el europeo. Utilizando un enfoque cuantitativo, se recolectaron datos de series temporales anuales del Banco Central del Ecuador, ANEC e INEC para el periodo 2008-2023. El diseño fue no experimental y longitudinal, proporcionando descripciones detalladas y mediciones del impacto de las variables estudiadas. Los principales destinos de exportación fueron Estados Unidos, Países Bajos, México, Alemania, Bélgica e Italia, con un aumento significativo en las exportaciones hacia Estados Unidos en 2015. Factores económicos como la volatilidad de los precios y las inversiones en tecnología, así como factores climáticos y sociales, afectaron las variaciones en las exportaciones. Las políticas gubernamentales y el apoyo al sector cacaotero, como el Plan Nacional del Cacao, fueron esenciales para mitigar los efectos negativos y fomentar la sostenibilidad y competitividad del cacao ecuatoriano. En conclusión, el estudio resalta la importancia de las políticas integradas y el uso de tecnologías avanzadas para fortalecer la posición de Ecuador en el mercado global del cacao, contribuyendo al desarrollo social y económico del país
Book Review: Traversing the Lexical Landscape: Insights from "Learning Vocabulary in Another Language"
Authors: Żammit Jacqueline 
Published: November 2024

This book review provides an overview of "Learning Vocabulary in Another Language" by Nation (2022), highlighting its contributions to language acquisition. Nation's work focuses on strategies for acquiring vocabulary, integrating recent research and practical insights. The book emphasises the importance of vocabulary alongside grammar, defining it in terms of form, meaning, and usage. It advocates prioritising high-frequency words while recognising the value of less common words. Nation's approach rigorously integrates theory and practice, offering evidence-based strategies for effective vocabulary instruction. The book is structured into sections exploring the nature of vocabulary, teaching and learning strategies, and the impact of extensive reading and listening. Empirical studies, real-world examples, and practical techniques support each section. The updated third edition includes a new chapter on out-of-classroom learning and the influence of digital tools. Nation explores cognitive processes involved in vocabulary acquisition and advocates for evidence-based practices like spaced repetition and mnemonic devices to enhance retention and application. This book remains a pertinent resource for understanding and teaching vocabulary across diverse educational settings, sustaining its impact through meticulous research and updated content.
Preeclampsia – A risk factor for dementia in women
Authors: Aftab Sameen , Qazi Muhammad Zarlish  
Published: November 2024

Dear Editor,
Dementia is a broad term that includes a spectrum of diseases that affect our cognition, thinking ability, and performance of daily activities. According to the World Health Organization, at present, more than 55 million people around the world are suffering from dementia, and over 60% of whom live in countries that have middle to low socioeconomic status. Nearly 10 million new cases of dementia present every year.
The risk factors for developing dementia include age (more common in those 65 or older), high blood pressure, high blood sugar, overweight or obesity, cigarette smoking, too much alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, social isolation, air pollution, head trauma, hearing disorders and having depression or anxiety. (1) According to World Health Organization, women are affected by dementia disproportionately, both directly and indirectly and experience higher disability-adjusted life years and mortality due to dementia, but also provide 70% of care hours for people living with dementia. This disproportionate involvement of women in dementia points towards the possibility of a gender related cause of dementia in women.
A recent systemic review and meta-analysis published in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, shows increased future risk of vascular dementia in women whose pregnancies were complicated by Preeclampsia(2). This corroborates the earlier studies that also show a correlation between dementia and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis published in 2021 had also concluded that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were found to be associated with a 1.2- to 1.4-fold increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia and a 3-fold increased risk of future vascular dementia(3). A study published in 2010 shows the existence of striking parallels between the (epi)genetic features of pre-eclampsia and late-onset Alzheimer’s disease for the genes that are located on 10q22. Its data indicates that STOX1 gene controls a conserved pathway shared between placenta and brain with overexpression in late-onset Alzheimer’s disease(4). These findings necessitate further high-quality research with sufficiently long follow-up periods for outcome development so that this correlation is better assessed. With better understanding of risk factors for dementia, we can probably control the incidence of dementia by prevention of these risk factors.
Alam, Manusia, Dan Teknologi: Analisis Filosofis Dan Refleksi Teologis Terhadap Krisis Modern
Authors: Putra Andreas Maurenis 
Published: November 2024

Abstract:This article is a philosophical context analysis and theological reflection on the relationship between nature, humanity and technology within the framework of modern crises, which began in the Enlightenment era. When scientific thinking began to eliminate religious thinking. Since then, the world has not been seen as a sacred entity so that nature is disrespectfully objectified in order to advance the narrative of progress that Enlightenment rationality glorifies through its tools: science and technology. Crises were inevitable. On the basis of this analysis and reflection, the author sees that Enlightenment rationality has no future if its application is devoid of certain values. Thus the author proposes a new principle of technology, namely humanistic technology with a theocentric dimension. This method allows modern life to choose the spirit of life “for all” Abstrak:Artikel ini adalah sebuah analisis konteks secara filosofis dan refleksi teologis tentang hubungan antara alam, manusia, dan teknologi dalam bingkai krisis-krisis modern, yang dimulai sejak era Pencerahan. Ketika pemikiran ilmiah mulai mengeliminasi pemikiran religius. Sejak itu dunia tidak dilihat sebagai sebuah entitas yang sakral sehingga tanpa rasa hormat alam diobjekkan demi melajukan narasi kemajuan yang diagungkan rasionalitas Pencerahan melalui alat-alatnya: sains dan teknologi. Krisis-krisis pun tak terhindarkan. Atas dasar analisis dan refleksi ini penulis melihat bahwa rasionalitas Pencerahan tidak memiliki masa depan jika pengaplikasiannya lepas nilai tertentu. Dengan demikian penulis mengusulkan suatu prinsip berteknologi secara baru yaitu teknologi humanistik dengan disertai dimensi teosentris. Cara ini memungkinkan kehidupan modern memilih spirit hidup “bagi semua”