bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A framework for skills development for employability in Botswana’s competitive accounting environment
Authors: Munjeyi Edmore , Schutte Danie 
Published: October 2024

Orientation: The accounting labour market has undergone a metamorphosis in recent years, leading to new demands for generic skills. Universities have responded to the new demands by implementing several reforms in the accounting curriculum to address skills gap. Despite these major reforms, educational expectation gap is persistent in Botswana.Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to develop a framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic accounting environment in Botswana.Motivation for the study: A skills gap was identified, implying the need for a framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic environment, thereby improving the graduate’s pervasive skills.Research design, approach and method: This study employs a qualitative research approach to extract and analyse key themes, quotes and insights from recent reports submitted to Institutions of Higher Learning (IHLs) by students and industrial supervisors. Utilising thematic data analysis, this research systematically examines the qualitative data gathered to elucidate the effectiveness of competency frameworks as perceived by both parties.Main findings: Institutions of Higher Learning in Botswana are mandated to equip students with job market-relevant skills. However, graduates often fall short in critical areas such as advanced cognitive abilities, socio-behavioural competencies and information technology (IT) proficiency, hindering their effective transition from academia to the workforce.Practical and/or managerial implications: The contribution and societal impact of this study are summed up in a proposed framework for skills development for employability in the competitive and dynamic accounting environment in Botswana.Contribution and/or value-add: The proposed framework is designed so that universities can equip students with soft skills needed in ever changing accounting environment.
Developing modelling competencies in pre-service mathematics teachers through reflective thinking skills
Authors: Bukari Hamidu Ibrahim , Govender Rajendran 
Published: October 2024

Background: Ghana’s commitment to quality education has been reflected in its goal of providing equal access to high-quality education, leading to the reforms of the New Common Core Mathematics Curriculum for Basic Schools. The study explored the integration of mathematical modelling using reflective thinking skills, which are not currently core competencies in Ghanaian basic school curriculum.Aim: The study examined the modelling proficiency of pre-service mathematics teachers by assessing their reflective thinking abilities in a modelling laboratory context.Setting: The study focussed on pre-service mathematics teachers from two education colleges in Ghana.Methods: Using purposive sampling to select participants, a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test interventions was employed. Data were analysed through content and inferential analysis, supplemented by interviews.Findings: The findings indicated that the comparison group lacked prior knowledge of modelling problems and struggled with comprehension tasks. In contrast, the experimental group successfully translated real-world problems into mathematical models.Conclusion: Providing pre-service mathematics teachers access to a modelling laboratory and modelling-eliciting activities was essential for developing future modellers. This approach would enhance their effectiveness in teaching foundational mathematics in Ghanaian education.Contribution: This study advocated for re-orienting the mathematics curriculum at both Basic schools and Colleges of Education in Ghana to include mathematical modelling and reflective thinking skills as core components.
Analysis of changes in serum calcium and magnesium levels during plateletpheresis on different apheresis machines in healthy donors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Bundas Sunita , Sharma Sarita , Malakar Prem Chand 
Published: October 2024

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
The most common observed complication of plateletpheresis procedure is hypocalcemia due to citrate’s chelation of free calcium. Magnesium is also affected by citrate infusion. We have evaluated the impact of plateletpheresis on the total serum calcium (Ca++) and magnesium (Mg++) levels of the donor.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
One hundred and thirty-seven healthy plateletpheresis donors were included in the study. Samples were collected from the donor at 0 min (baseline), 30 min, and 60 min, at the end of the procedure and 30 min after completion of the procedure. The pattern of changes in serum Ca++ and serum Mg++ levels at different time points for different apheresis machines (Fenwal Amicus, Fresenius COM.TEC, Spectra Optia, and Hemonetics MCS+) was studied.

RESULTS:
A significant decline in serum Ca++ and serum Mg++ levels from baseline to the end of the procedure was observed. This decline was observed maximum for Hemonetics MCS+. The baseline values were regained 30 min after completion of the procedure. Difference from baseline values 30 min after the procedure was lowest in amicus in the case of serum Ca++ and COM.TEC in case of serum Mg++. Twenty donors (14.60%) experienced adverse donor reactions.

CONCLUSION:
Serum calcium and serum magnesium levels decreased transiently during the procedure and regained normal values after 30 min of the completion of the plateletpheresis procedure on all four apheresis machines (whether based on continuous or intermittent centrifugation). Hence, it is concluded from our study that plateletpheresis is a well-tolerated and safe procedure.
Evaluation of foveal avascular zone changes in patients with type 1 diabetes using optical coherence topography angiography
Authors: El Din Eman F.S. , Ahmed Essam E.D.S. , Bayoumy Ahmed S.M. , El Sayed Ahmed Marwa , El Azim Gad Elham A. 
Published: October 2024

Aim
To evaluate vascular changes in the foveal avascular zone in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes by using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Patients and methods
This cross-sectional study was performed in Benha University Hospital at Department of Ophthalmology. The patients were obtained from the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic in Benha University Hospital. The study was conducted on 48 patients (96 eyes) divided into two groups: group A, 24 diabetic children with type 1 diabetes, group B, 24 healthy children of the same age and sex who met the inclusion criteria. The patients were collected from April 2022 to April 2023. The patients were photographed using the Optovue AngioVue OCTA System.

Results
Our results show that according to the foveal avascular zone it was slightly wider in type 1 diabetic cases with no clinically evident diabetes retinopathy (DR) than control. There were insignificant differences between the two groups as regards foveal density, but as regards foveal thickness, it was significantly lower in diabetic cases than in the control group.

Conclusion
We discovered that OCTA could consistently identify microvascular changes in the Deep and Superficial Capillary Plexus prior to the clinical indications’ onset of DR. In order to assess the OCTA potential for the screening of DR in children with T1DM, it is necessary to conduct numerous prospective studies.
Evaluation of topical bromfenac as an adjunctive treatment with intravitreal ranibizumab in the management of diabetic macular edema
Authors: Emara Sara S. , Tabl Ahmed A. , El-Tohamy Soha M. , El-Mohamady Mohamed N. 
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose
Intravitreal injection of anti- vascular endothelial growth factor medications has transformed the therapy of diabetic macular edema (DME). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of topical bromfenac as an adjunctive therapy to intravitreal ranibizumab injections in patients diagnosed with DME.

Study design
Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Patients
The study included 40 eyes of patients with DME, divided into two groups: group I (20 eyes) received intravitreal ranibizumab injections and adjunctive topical bromfenac twice daily; group II (20 eyes) received only intravitreal ranibizumab injections.

Methods
All patients underwent assessments for best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, anterior segment, and fundus examination. Optical coherence tomography of the macula was repeated at 1, 3, and 6 months after the last injection.

Results
At 6 months, group I demonstrated significantly worse BCVA compared with group II (P=0.021). In group II, the 6-month change in central macular thickness from baseline was significantly greater in patients aged less than or equal to 60 years compared with those greater than 60 years (median = –170.5 μm vs. −40 μm, respectively; P=0.001) and in females compared with males (median = –75 μm vs. −23.4 μm; P=0.012). No significant differences were observed concerning the duration of diabetes (P=0.238), HbA1c levels (P=0.315), or laterality (P=0.792).

Conclusion
Topical bromfenac, when combined with intravitreal ranibizumab, showed some efficacy in the management of DME over a 6-month follow-up period, although the results were not statistically significant.
Dermoscopic Distinction of Tinea Incognito on the Face and Topical Steroid Damaged Face: A Cross-Sectional Study in Skin of Color
Authors: Ankad Balachandra S. , Hurakadli Sahana S. , Chigurupati Eshritha 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Dermatophytosis is widespread in India due to recalcitrant and resistant infection. Tinea incognito (TI) is modified dermatophytosis due to the inadvertent use of topical steroids (TS). Similarly, topical steroid-damaged face (TSDF) is caused by prolonged use of TS. Distinction of TI and TSDF is difficult when the face is affected. Dermoscopy can assist in the differentiation of both by revealing characteristic features. We evaluated the dermoscopic features in TI affecting the face and TSDF.

Aims and Objectives:
To evaluate the clinical and dermoscopic features of TI affecting the face and TSDF. To observe the involvement of eyelids in TI as opposed to TSDF.

Materials and Methods:
The study was conducted in a tertiary hospital after obtaining ethical clearance and informed consent. Patients with signs of TI or TSDF were enrolled and demographic data were collected. Patients who had applied TS/combination creams were included. A handheld dermoscope with 10x magnification was used. A potassium hydroxide mount was used to confirm the diagnosis of TI.

Results:
Out of 80 patients, 27 males and 53 females were present. The mean duration of application was 8.25 ± 7 months. Clinical features were pruritus, erythema, scaling, and burning sensation. Eyelid involvement was noted in TI while it was spared in TSDF. On dermoscopy, morphological features were predominant in TI whereas vascular structures were found in TSDF in addition to white rosettes.

Conclusion:
Dermoscopy distinguishes TI from TSDF comprehensively by demonstrating definitive features. In addition, the involvement of the eyelid is an excellent clinical sign of TI.
Bilateral inguinal hernioplasty in emergency surgery: Is it feasible? Comparative retrospective study using “propensity score matching”
Authors: Bravo-Salva A. , Ochoa-Segarra F. , González-Castillo A. M. , Juvany-Gómez M. , Téllez-Marques C. , Riba-Combatti L. , Pérez-Guitart M. , Pereira-Rodríguez J. A. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION:
Hernias, particularly groin hernias, are prevalent surgical pathologies worldwide, often necessitating surgery in cases of complications. This study investigates the safety and efficacy of performing bilateral inguinal hernioplasty when one side faces complications, addressing the lack of consensus in emergency groin hernia treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A retrospective, single-center study spanning a duration of 10 years was conducted, including adult patients who underwent emergency surgery for inguinal hernia. Propensity score matching was employed to create similar groups for comparative analysis of unilateral versus bilateral emergency groin hernioplasty. Surgical techniques, complications, mortality, and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS:
This study included 341 patients. Data obtained from the study revealed high morbidity and 90-day mortality rates, consistent with the data of existing literature. Propensity score matching yielded two comparable groups. Short-term outcomes showed no significant differences in complication rates, mortality, surgical site infection, or hospital stay between unilateral and bilateral hernioplasty groups. Bilateral surgery takes approximately 15 min of the procedure time. Long-term outcomes exhibited similar recurrence rates between groups.

CONCLUSION:
This study supports the practice of bilateral inguinal hernioplasty in emergency scenarios when one side faces complications. It is a safe approach without any significant increase in morbidity or hospital stay, while reducing the need for a subsequent intervention and its associated risks and costs. Further prospective research is necessary to confirm these findings.
Implementation Research on Cardiovascular Diseases in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Moosan Hisham , Sharma Arun Kumar , Thakor Mahendra , Panigrahi Ansuman , Dhikav Vikas , Yadav Suresh , Huda Ramesh Kumar , Parmar Mukesh C. , Singh Poonam , Mohanty Suman S. , John Denny 
Published: October 2024

Summary
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally and the prevention and control of these diseases tend to entail longer and larger social and economic commitments on the part of governments. This systematic review (SR) aims to understand the quantum, diversity, and quality of implementation research (IR) done in the field of CVDs in India with a view to maximizing the utility of the efforts made by the government. The evidence was collated on IR on CVDs in India conducted in the past 20 years (2001–2021) using a SR approach. The SR was drafted using Preferred Reporting Items for SRs and Meta-analyses guidelines. Academic databases (PubMed, Embase, and Science Direct) and nonacademic databases (Google Scholar and ProQuest) were chosen, along with repositories of gray literature. Retrieved articles were screened for titles and abstracts and assessed by two independent reviewers. The articles also underwent a concomitant risk of bias assessment utilizing checklists (STARI, STROBE, CONSORT, etc.,) and a narrative summary was drafted using SwiM guidelines. In the final analysis, 10 articles that fitted the inclusion criteria of IR for CVD in India were included, of which seven were directed at IR on hypertension, and three were related to coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Acceptability, adoption, and feasibility were the only attributes of IR that were explored in these studies.
Examining Asian Parents’ Perspectives and Challenges in Sexual and Reproductive Health Education with Implications for Public Health: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ellin Mohammed Rasheedan Bin , Hazariah Abdul Hamid Siti Binti , Arifin Siti Roshaidai Mohd , Hasan Haliza Binti , Othman Sajaratulnisah Binti , Zain Norhasmah Mohd Binti 
Published: October 2024

Summary
In Asian cultures, discussing sexual matters with adolescents is often considered taboo and culturally or religiously sensitive. Due to a lack of knowledge and skills, many parents find approaching such a topic with their children challenging, fearing that raising such an issue will bring concerns about encouraging promiscuity. This systematic review aims to assess evidence on Asian parents’ perspectives and practices regarding delivering sexuality information to adolescents. It also seeks to identify the factors that facilitate or hinder the effective delivery of such knowledge. The electronic databases EBSCO-CINAHL, Scopus, and Science Direct were searched using keywords and synonyms such as “sexuality information,” “sexuality education,” “parent-child,” “communication,” and “Asian.” The studies’ quality was assessed using the Mixed-Method Assessment Tool. A comprehensive database search identified 1392 potentially relevant literature sources for this review. Following the application of inclusion criteria, a final set of 16 eligible full-text research articles was selected for inclusion in the review. In most quantitative literature, parents were found to have a good level of knowledge, whereas most qualitative studies reported the opposite, indicating inadequate knowledge. Seven studies highlighted the cultural denial of delivering regarding sexuality, whereas six studies emphasized the need for parental support. Negative experiences, including discomfort, shyness, embarrassment, fear of intimidation, and fearful encounters, were reported in the literature. In conclusion, this review aims to pinpoint gaps and challenges in the delivery of sexuality education among Asian parents, offering valuable insights for public health practitioners and policymakers.
Prevalence and Determinants of Developmental Delay in Children of 12–36 Months in the Area of Primary Health Centre, Bela, Nagpur
Authors: Lakshmi N. R. Aiswarya , Deshmukh Pradeep R. , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Dahake Urmila 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Developmental delay happens when a child fails to attain age-appropriate milestones. Identification of developmental delay in children is important to initiate early intervention in them which will facilitate the children to have a productive life in their later years.

Objectives:
The objective was to study the prevalence of developmental delay among 12–36-month-old children from the area of Primary Health Centre, Bela, in rural Nagpur, Maharashtra.

Materials and Methods:
This was a community-based cross-sectional study design. A total of 314 children were selected through simple random sampling and assessed for delay using the Pediatric Development Screening Tool (PDST).

Results:
14.9% had developmental delay in at least any one domain and 3.5% had global developmental delay. Domain-specific developmental delay was highest for language delay (10%) followed by fine motor (5%). Gross motor and personal social delays had the same prevalence (3.1%). On multivariable lower literacy, level of mother and Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure were significant variables for any developmental delay. Hospitalization of the child during the 1st month of life and lower parenting scores were the significant factors associated with global delay.

Conclusion:
Development delay is present in a sizeable proportion of children <3 years of age which affects their future growth and achievement. We recommend annual community-based screening for delays to detect and manage such children.
Household Food Insecurity among Indigenous Communities in Sarawak, Malaysia: Predictors and Coping Strategies
Authors: Teoh Wan Jool , Law Leh Shii , Helmy Hazmi , Stephen Jeffery Anak , Cheah Whye Lian , Salleh Yolanda Anak 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Food insecurity prevails in people at all phases of their life course and causes remarkable health, social, and financial repercussions. In Sarawak state, Malaysia, information regarding household food insecurity is limited.

Objectives:
The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of household food insecurity, together with its predictors and coping strategies among the Sarawak indigenous communities.

Materials and Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted among 953 Indigenous households (women) located in six districts throughout Sarawak using multistage sampling. Interviewer-administrated questionnaires were used. Simple and multiple logistic regressions were employed to draw inferences.

Results:
The prevalence of food insecurity was 42.2%. Large household size (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.57 [1.04–2.45]), hardcore poor (AOR = 12.26 [5.07–29.65]), and absolute poor families (AOR = 3.01 [1.76–5.15]), recipient of financial assistance (AOR = 1.94 [1.27, 2.96]), no savings (AOR = 1.63 [1.08–2.46]), increased resource loss (AOR = 1.004 [1.001–1.008]), and employment of coping strategies (AOR = 3.78 [2.50–5.72]) were significantly related to a higher risk of household food insecurity. High level of perceived social support (AOR = 0.73 [0.58–0.93]), optimism (AOR = 0.91 [0.86–0.96]), and general perceived self-efficacy (AOR = 0.88 [0.85–0.91]) among respondents were protective against household food insecurity.

Conclusion:
Nearly half of the Indigenous households faced food insecurity in the current study. The findings suggest that incessant effort by pertinent stakeholders is warranted via diverse strategies to enhance the socioeconomic status and nutrition intervention programs that incorporate components of perceived social support, optimism, and perceived general self-efficacy to mitigate the level of food insecurity among the Sarawak Indigenous communities.
Regional Disparity of Anemia among Children and Its Determinants: A Study of National Family Health Survey-5
Authors: Mandal Subhadip , Behera Jagannath , Shit Bichitra , Paul Sankar 
Published: October 2024

Summary
This study analyzes data from India’s National Family Health Survey to assess the prevalence of anemia among children aged 6–59 months. Over the past decade, the prevalence increased from 59% to 67%, remaining a significant public health concern. Gujarat has highest rates, and Kerala has lowest among major states in India. The Western region tops in prevalence (75.70%), whereas the Northeast has the lowest (56.20%). Factors such as lower maternal education, poverty, religion, rural residence, poor child nutrition, low birth weight, and stunting contribute to higher odds of anemia. Improved socioeconomic conditions and maternal nutrition are recommended for risk reduction.
Impact of Corticosteroid Administration on Fetal Doppler Metrics and Neonatal Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ghose Seetesh , Shanmugam Aswini 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Antenatal corticosteroid therapy is a crucial intervention to improve neonatal outcomes in pregnancies at risk of preterm birth. Corticosteroids such as betamethasone and dexamethasone enhance fetal lung maturation and reduce morbidity and mortality. To assess the effects of these drugs, we conducted a systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data were located through extensive searches of PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science, using keywords such as “antenatal corticosteroids,” “fetal Doppler,” and “neonatal outcomes,” and applying filters for human studies published between 2013 and 2024. Studies were selected based on inclusion criteria that prioritized original research articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses in English. Screening and eligibility assessments were performed by independent reviewers, with full-text articles. Data extraction involved recording study designs, sample sizes, corticosteroid regimens, Doppler metrics assessed, and neonatal outcomes observed. The extracted data were synthesized qualitatively through narrative methods and quantitatively using meta-analysis where applicable. The review found that corticosteroid administration leads to transient reductions in the resistance and pulsatility indices of key fetal vessels, reflecting improved placental and cerebral perfusion. These Doppler changes correlate with better neonatal outcomes, including reduced respiratory distress syndrome and enhanced neurodevelopmental results. Despite these promising findings, limitations such as small sample sizes and short follow-up periods were noted. Future research should focus on larger, multicenter trials and long-term outcome assessments. Clinicians are advised to incorporate serial Doppler monitoring in high-risk pregnancies to optimize maternal-fetal management and neonatal outcomes.