bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy in upper Egypt: a 3-year prospective study
Authors: Yousef Hassan S. , Ahmed Mohamed E. , Abu El Wafa Esam A. G. , Salih Mohamed A. K. 
Published: May 2024

Objective
To determine the prevalence and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in adult diabetic patients during 3 years.

Patients and methods
This is a cross-sectional study that was carried out on the adult diabetic population who attended a large private referral ophthalmology center in Assiut City, Upper Egypt for 3 years. All cases were subjected to full history taking, ophthalmological examination, and dilated fundus examination for evidence of DR, and besides, the associated systemic complications were assessed.

Results
The study included a total of 2178 cases and the prevalence of DR was 18.2%. DR was more prevalent in females than males (67.9% vs. 32.1%). Also, DR was significantly associated with insulin use, moderate and poor control of diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, and nephropathy (P<0.01 for all). The risk factors for DR were; older age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.69; 95% CI =0.91–1.97; P≤0.01), female sex (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.21–1.86; P =0.02), smoking (AOR 1.73; 95% CI =1.41–2.11; P =0.02), longer duration of DM (> 15 years) (AOR 2.87; 95% CI =2.48–3.29; P ≤0.01), insulin use (AOR 1.42; 95% CI =0.94–1.65; P=0.03), poor control of DM (AOR 3.98; 95% CI =3.69–5.41; P≤0.01), presence of HTN (AOR 2.62; 95% CI =2.37–2.89; P≤0.01) and dyslipidemia (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.42–2.02; P=0.03).

Conclusion
The prevalence of DR in adult diabetic patients was 18.2% and the significant risk factors for DR (arranged descendingly in power) were; poor control of DM, longer duration of DM (> 15 years), presence of HTN, smoking, high age, dyslipidemia, female sex, and insulin use.
Ebstein anomaly, a rare congenital cause of heart failure coexisting with Chiari network
Authors: Ojo Opeyemi Ezekiel , Dele-Ojo Bolade Folasade , Adeoti Adekunle Olatayo , Olaoye Olaniyi Olasunkanmi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare congenital condition that presents with an apical displacement of the tricuspid valve leaflets. Much rarer is its coexistence with Chiari network (CN), and only a very few cases had been documented in the literature. We report a 30-year-old man who presented with a 5-month history of progressively worsening abdominal distension with associated weight loss, easy fatigability, early satiety, and loss of appetite. A chest X-ray revealed cardiomegaly with right ventricular preponderance. A 12-lead electrocardiogram showed atrial fibrillation. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed apical displacement of the tricuspid valve, severe right atrial enlargement, a small right ventricle, atrialization of the right ventricle, and CN. A diagnosis of Ebstein anomaly coexisting with CN in atrial fibrillation was made. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of Ebstein’s anomaly coexisting with CN in Nigeria.
Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome with supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Folayan Olumuyiwa Shola , Agaja Oyinkansola Tolulope , Adebayo Bosede Ehelamioke , Ogunkunle Oluwatoyin O. , Omokhodion Samuel Ilenre 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome is a congenital abnormality of the cardiac conducting system. In the general population, its prevalence is 0.15%–0.3%, with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) being the most common rhythm disorder associated with it. SVT is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in children that requires therapy. It occurs because an accessory conduction pathway allows atrioventricular impulses to reenter the normal conduction pathway, thus completing a circuit that stimulates the atrium and ventricle at a rapid rate. Symptoms are nonspecific but could be life-threatening in infants, necessitating prompt intervention and prophylaxis. Cardioversion by pharmacologic or synchronized direct current (DC) is indicated in life-threatening or refractory arrhythmias. We report a 16-month-old Nigerian girl who had WPW syndrome and developed SVT that required synchronized DC cardioversion.
Unravelling the therapeutic landscape of bile acid-based therapies in gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Alrehaili Bandar D. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Bile acids serve as endogenous ligands for nuclear and cell membrane receptors and play a crucial role in bile acid and lipid metabolism. These detergent-like compounds promote bile flow and aid in the absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine. Synthesized in the liver as end products of cholesterol catabolism, bile acids exhibit a chemical structure comprising a nucleus and a side chain featuring a carboxyl group, with diverse steric arrangements and potential polar substituents. Critical interactions occur between bile acid species and various nuclear and cell membrane receptors, including the farnesoid X receptor and G-protein–coupled bile acid receptor 1. This research aimed to review the literature on bile acids and their roles in treating different diseases. Currently, numerous investigations are concentrating on specific bile acid species that target nuclear receptors in the gastrointestinal system, aiming to improve the treatment of conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Given the global attention this topic has garnered from research groups, it is considered relatively new, thus anticipating some gaps or incomplete data. Bile acid species have a significant therapeutic promise, especially in their ability to activate or inhibit nuclear receptors, such as farnesoid X receptor. This research provides to offer essential information for scientists and medical practitioners interested in discovering new studies that underscore the importance of bile acids in ameliorating and impeding the progression of disorders. Furthermore, it opens avenues for previously overlooked bile acid–based therapies.
Prımary External Audıtory Canal Cholesteatoma
Authors: Güneri Enis Alpin , Korkmaz Kıvanç 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
External auditory canal (EAC) cholesteatoma is characterized by a bony defect in the auditory canal with a cystic structure lined by keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium and retention of keratin debris. Clinically, patients present with chronic dull pain, otorrhea, or conductive hearing loss. Lamellar keratin debris in a bony defect in the case of an intact tympanic membrane is highly suggestive of external ear canal cholesteatoma. It must be differentiated from keratosis obturans. The locally erosive and indolent nature of cholesteatoma in the bony external ear canal may result in complications due to erosion into adjacent structures such as mastoid cells, semicircular canals, fallopian canal, and temporomandibular joint. The treatment options include conservative therapy and surgery. In this case report, we presented a 75-year-old male with a primary left EAC cholesteatoma underlining the diagnostic and therapeutic features of this rare disease.
Connective Tissue Disorders in the Head and Neck: A Pertinent Review
Authors: Alabdulqader Abdullah A. , Almudawi Norah Abdullah , Bedaiwi Reenad H. , Alsayed Ahmed A. , Alshehri Waleed M. , Alqaryan Saleh K. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
This study aimed to review the current literature on connective tissue disorders from a surgical standpoint. The Medline database was used to collect papers and reviews on the subject and it included only studies that were written in the English language. These papers were then read and written in a narrative - style pertinent review. The findings reveal that connective tissue disorders are a group of diseases that affect all components of the connective tissue, with various systemic manifestations , and their otolaryngologic manifestations are often similar and confusing. This article provides a comprehensive literature review of the otolaryngologic manifestations of connective tissue diseases, including their prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment. In conclusion, the otolaryngologist should be able to recognize these manifestations as indications of a systemic disease and use the information provided to determine the most appropriate evaluation and treatment.
Hyperbolic one-relator groups
Authors: Linton Marco 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
We introduce two families of two-generator one-relator groups called primitive extension groups and show that a one-relator group is hyperbolic if its primitive extension subgroups are hyperbolic. This reduces the problem of characterizing hyperbolic one-relator groups to characterizing hyperbolic primitive extension groups. These new groups, moreover, admit explicit decompositions as graphs of free groups with adjoined roots. In order to obtain this result, we characterize

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-free one-relator groups with exceptional intersection in terms of Christoffel words, show that hyperbolic one-relator groups have quasi-convex Magnus subgroup, and build upon the one-relator tower machinery developed in previous work of the author.
Introduction
Authors: Ambrogio Selusi 
Published: May 2024

This special issue of Asian Studies is dedicated to a relocation of Chinese thought outside of closed definitions and disciplines so as to return to this rich and varied tradition to its authentic, inclusive power. The introduction of Western systems of knowledge classifications, based on Melvil Dewey’s (1851‒1931) library system introduced in China in 1909, imposed entirely different models from the earlier imperial classifications. Moreover, the Dewey decimal model presents philosophy under nine categories (metaphysics; epistemology; parapsychology and occultism; psychology; logic; ethics; ancient, medieval, and eastern philosophy; modern Western philosophy), each with nine subcategories. Therefore the history of philosophy is split into two groups: thinking produced before the 19th century and that which followed. Eastern philosophy is actually the first subcategory of the first historical period (decimal no. 181). This view is highly conservative, and implies that Chinese and Indian philosophies are ancient but unprogressive and not rationally advanced compared to Western philosophy. It is perhaps unnecessary to say that this difference becomes irreconcilable when these Asian philosophies are compared with modern Western philosophy, as the supposedly pre-philosophical nature of non-Western philosophies is implied in the classification.
Uso de estrategias lúdicas e impacto en el desarrollo de las habilidades motrices básicas
Authors: Escudero Arias Luis Octavio , Coello Castro María Antonieta , Silva Muñoz Flor María , Zamora Arana Marjorie Geoconda 
Published: May 2024

El uso de estrategias lúdicas es importante para la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de manera integral ya que, como funciones tan importantes como el tono muscular, entre otros son beneficiadas para el desarrollo motriz. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo explorar las perspectivas teóricas sobre la utilización de estrategias lúdicas y su impacto en el desarrollo de las habilidades motrices básicas, mediante la revisión teórica en fuentes confiables. Dentro de la metodología se utilizó el tipo de investigación bibliográfica-documental, basada en una revisión sistemática utilizando el diagrama de flujo PRISMA, donde se evaluó la teoría planteada a través del método cualitativo usando 120 trabajos y borrados 70 por duplicado incluyendo 15 artículos científicos regionales y de alto impacto de 2019-2023. Dentro de los resultados se pude evidenciar que el método lúdico es altamente efectivo en el desarrollo de habilidades motrices básicas, proporcionando oportunidades adecuadas de estimulación y aprendizaje desde la infancia para que, a su vez, influyan en el desarrollo cognitivo, emocional y social, esta implementación; puede ser beneficiosa tanto desarrollo físico y cognitivo de los infantes, lo que contribuirá mayor compromiso y participación en aprendizaje motor. Utilizar estrategias lúdicas en la enseñanza y aprendizaje de estas habilidades favorece la adquisición y mejora de estas, pues, promueve la participación, motivación, estimulación del desarrollo integral, fomenta la inclusión y cooperación. Por tanto, es fundamental utilizar el método lúdico como enfoque pedagógico en el ámbito de la Educación Física y el desarrollo motriz.
Social Capital and Economic Performance of Financial Cooperatives: Evidence from the Amhara Region
Authors: Yayeh Fentahun Admassu , Mulugeta Wondaferahu 
Published: May 2024

Financial cooperatives emerged in the mid-1800s, in response to economic crises and marginalization. The response was an institution of people-centered collective action that was not driven by the state or the market. Scholars have analyzed its contribution to development worldwide, yet its position in markets, its social capital-based characteristics, and the role of social capital in financial cooperatives have been not broadly investigated in Ethiopia. Thus, this study seeks to analyze the various aspects of social capital and examines the effects of social capital on financial cooperatives' economic performance. Social capital is indicated in terms of relational, cognitive, and structural dimensions. Analysis was made based on both the quantitative data and qualitative information a combination of primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected in a survey of randomly selected 348 members of all 27 cooperatives savings and credit unions in the Amhara region using structured questionnaires. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were also carried out. The results revealed that higher levels of structural, relational, and cognitive social capital significantly and positively affect members’ participation in savings. Moreover, structural and relational dimensions of social capital significantly and positively influence economic performance. Whereas the deficiency of cognitive social capital; that is, a lack of understanding of shared mission and goal between members significantly disturbs the economic performance of cooperative saving and credit unions. We can safely conclude that social capital generated in members and collective actions, based on strong trust, cooperation, and common mission and goal understanding can lead cooperatives saving and credit unions to success. To grow and expand the economic performance of financial cooperatives, the cooperative's policy must be focused and geared to the improvement of the social capital dimensions to enhance its service delivery and contribute more to the economic development of the region and the country at large.
Respiratory Morbidities And Associated Risk Factors Among Traffic Police Personnel: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chelimela Desham , Faiyazuddin Talha , Mohammed Abdul Wassey 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Air pollution, largely driven by transportation emissions, poses significant health risks, including respiratory diseases, for individuals worldwide. Traffic police officers, who face prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions, are particularly vulnerable to respiratory morbidity. However, limited research exists on this topic, especially in regions like Hyderabad, India, known for poor air quality. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of respiratory morbidity among traffic police personnel in Hyderabad.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to January 2023 among 258 traffic police personnel aged 25-58 years in Hyderabad. Data collection involved structured interviews using a questionnaire adapted from ATS DLD-78, lung function measurements via peak flow meter and spirometry, and assessment of environmental exposure using Air Quality Index data. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms among traffic police personnel, with 32.5% reporting frequent respiratory complaints and 29.8% reporting chronic complaints. Lung function assessments indicated obstructive patterns in 28.7% of participants. Factors such as age over 35 years and exposure to areas with poor Air Quality Index showed statistically significant associations with respiratory morbidity. However, educational level, duration of exposure to traffic, smoking, and mask usage did not exhibit significant differences in respiratory morbidity.

Conclusion: The study's findings underscore the increased risk of respiratory morbidity among traffic police officers due to prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions. Regular awareness sessions on personal protective equipment (PPE) and periodic health checkups are imperative to decrease health risks within this occupational group. Furthermore, rotating traffic police postings based on Air Quality Index rankings could help reduce exposure to pollutants and protect respiratory health. These interventions are crucial in addressing the significant burden of respiratory diseases among traffic police personnel in urban environments like Hyderabad.
Inverted Follicular Keratosis in the Post-Auricular Region: A Case Report
Authors: Kanithi Yamini , Prasad Sharadrutha , Anandam G 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Inverted follicular kera tosis is a rare, benign skin growth that can be difficult to diagnose under a microscope because it can resemble other benign and even malignant lesions. This case report describes a 53-year-old woman who had a small nodule behind her ear. The nodule was surgically removed and examined under a microscope. The microscopic features, such as the inward growth pattern of the cells and the presence of swirling structures called squamous eddies, led to the diagnosis of inverted follicular keratosis. This case highlights the importance of recognizing inverted follicular keratosis so that it can be distinguished from more serious skin conditions, particularly squamous cell carcinoma.
Dynamical drivers of free-tropospheric ozone increases over equatorial Southeast Asia
Authors: Stauffer Ryan M. , Thompson Anne M. , Kollonige Debra E. , Komala Ninong , Al-Ghazali Habib Khirzin , Risdianto Dian Yudha , Dindang Ambun , Fairudz bin Jamaluddin Ahmad , Sammathuria Mohan Kumar , Zakaria Norazura Binti , Johnson Bryan J. , Cullis Patrick D. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract. Positive trends in tropical free-tropospheric (FT) ozone are frequently ascribed to emissions growth, but less is known about the effects of changing dynamics. Extending a prior study (Thompson et al., 2021; https://doi.org/10.1029/2021JD034691; “T21”), we re-examine Southern Hemisphere Additional Ozonesondes (SHADOZ) ozone trends over equatorial Southeast Asia (ESEA), one of Earth's most convectively active regions, using 25 years (1998–2022) of ozone soundings. T21 posited that early-year positive FT ozone trends at equatorial SHADOZ stations are related to decreasing convection. The 25-year analysis of Kuala Lumpur and Watukosek SHADOZ records finds that FT ozone trends of +5 % to +15 % (+2 to +6 nmol mol−1) per decade from ∼ February–April coincide with large increases in satellite infrared brightness temperatures and outgoing longwave radiation, indicators of declining convective activity. MERRA-2 reanalyses exhibit increases in upper-tropospheric velocity potential and decreases in precipitable water, also indicating diminished convection. In contrast, trends in ozone and convective indicators are weak the rest of the year. These results suggest that decreases in convective intensity and frequency are primary drivers of FT ozone build-up over ESEA early in the year; i.e., waning convection suppresses lofting and dilution of ozone. Decreasing convection promotes accumulation of biomass burning emissions typical of boreal spring even though satellite FT carbon monoxide trends (2002–2022) over ESEA follow a global decrease pattern. Finally, our results demonstrate the advantages of monthly or seasonally resolved analyses over annual means for robust attribution of observed ozone trends, challenging models to reproduce these detailed features in simulations of the past 25 years.
Divergent biophysical responses of western United States forests to wildfire driven by eco-climatic gradients
Authors: Shrestha Surendra , Williams Christopher A. , Rogers Brendan M. , Rogan John , Kulakowski Dominik 
Published: May 2024

Abstract. Understanding vegetation recovery after fire is critical for predicting vegetation-mediated ecological dynamics in future climates. However, information characterizing vegetation recovery patterns after fire and their determinants over large geographical extents is limited. This study uses Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) leaf area index (LAI) and albedo to characterize patterns of post-fire biophysical dynamics across the western United States (US) and further examines the influence of topo-climatic variables on the recovery of LAI and albedo at two different time horizons, 10 and 20 years post-fire, using a random forest model. Recovery patterns were derived for all wildfires that occurred between 1986 and 2017 across seven forest types and 21 level III ecoregions of the western US. We found differences in the characteristic trajectories of post-fire vegetation recovery across forest types and eco-climatic settings. In some forest types, LAI had recovered to only 60 %–70 % of the pre-fire levels by 25 years after the fire, while it recovered to 120 %–150 % of the pre-fire levels in other forest types, with higher absolute post-fire changes observed in forest types and ecoregions that had a higher initial pre-fire LAI. Our random forest results showed very little influence of fire severity on the recovery of both summer LAI and albedo at both post-fire time horizons. Post-fire vegetation recovery was most strongly controlled by elevation, with faster rates of recovery at lower elevations. Similarly, annual precipitation and average summer temperature had significant impacts on the post-fire recovery of vegetation. Full recovery was seldom observed when annual precipitation was less than 500 mm and average summer temperature was above the optimal range, i.e., 15–20 °C. Climate influences, particularly annual precipitation, were a major driver of post-fire summer albedo change through its impact on ecological succession. This study provides quantitative measures of primary controls that could be used to improve the modeling of ecosystem dynamics post-fire.