Demographic Profile Research Articles

NUTRIENTS' DEFICIENCY RISKS IN PREGNANT WOMEN DUE TO THEIR EATING HABITS

Aim: To research the dietary habits of pregnant women living in Bulgaria and to assess the possible health effects for the offspring. Methods: An online anonymous survey of the dietary habits of pregnant women living in Bulgaria was conducted. A questionnaire was developed in Google Forms, collecting information about the demographic profile, diet, frequency of consumption of certain food and drink groups, use of alternative dietary patterns, etc. The questionnaire was spread through social media using the snowball technique. The assessment of the respondents' dietary habits was based on the national dietary recommendations during pregnancy. Descriptive analysis of the results was done using Jamovi software statistical package ver. 2.3.0. Results: 117 pregnant women aged between 21 and 54 years (median - 30 years) were interviewed. Daily consumption of milk and dairy products was found in 41% and 47% of respondents, respectively. Among the women surveyed, all were reported to consume dairy products, except 5.1% who did not consume milk. The relative share of women who rarely or never consumed fish was 58.1% and 12%, respectively, and one woman did not consume both fish and meat. Vegetarians accounted for 6% of the women surveyed, and 6% were on a low carbohydrate diet. Conclusion: Although the majority of pregnant women surveyed followed the recommendations for healthy eating, some rarely or never consumed some of the healthy foods, which put them at risk of deficiency or insufficiency of certain nutrients.

Regional variations in psoriatic arthritis: Insights from a nationwide multicenter analysis in Türkiye

Objectives: The study aimed to investigate and compare clinical features, disease activity, and the overall disease burden among psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients across seven distinct geographic regions in Türkiye. Patients and methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study involving 1,134 PsA patients from 25 referral centers across seven regions was conducted. Demographic and clinical characteristics, comorbidities, joint involvement, extra-articular manifestations, and disease activity measures were evaluated across regions. Results: A total of 1134 PsA patients from seven different geographic regions in Türkiye participated in this study. The highest number of participants was from the Marmara region (n=409), with subsequent representation from Central Anatolia (n=370), Aegean (n=139), Mediterranean (n=60), Black Sea (n=60), Eastern Anatolia (n=60), and Southeastern Anatolia (n=36) regions. There were significant variations in demographic profile, including age, body mass index, age of disease onset, educational status, comorbidities, and family history of both psoriasis and PsA. Clinical features, such as enthesitis, dactylitis, uveitis, and joint involvement, demonstrated significant variation across regions. Additionally, disease activity measures, including pain, patient and physician global assessments, acute phase reactants, disease activity indices, quality of life, and functional status, displayed considerable regional differences. Conclusion: This nationwide study revealed substantial regional diversity in demographic data, clinical characteristics, disease activity, and quality of life among PsA patients in Türkiye. These findings stress the need to customize treatment approaches to address regional needs and to conduct further research to uncover reasons for disparities. It is crucial to enhance region-specific approaches to improve patient care and outcomes for PsA.

Predicting psychological well-being based on attitudes toward aging and social support mediated by hope in life

ABSTRACT Given the increasing size and share of older population and the various mental and psychological challenges that individuals face with on the path of life to reach old age, it is crucial to investigate the factors affecting psychological well-being. Therefore, the present study aimed to predict psychological well-being based on attitudes toward aging and social support by meditating on hope in life. This study employed a correlational design with path analysis to explore the relationships between the variables of focus. The sample comprised 468 individuals aged 15 or older residing in Qom, Iran. Participants were recruited randomly using a systematic approach from 2021 to 2022. The participants completed the demographic profile questionnaire, Kogan’s Attitudes Toward Older People Scale, Snyder’s Adult Hope Scale, Vaux et al. Social Support Appraisals Scale, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests of Spearman’s correlation and the structural equation model in SPSS24 and AMOS24. The hypothesized research model demonstrated an acceptable fit to the data (CMIN = 0.424, GFI = 1.000, CFI = 1.000, RMSEA = 0.001). Moreover, the variables of attitudes toward aging (β = 0.178, p < .01) and social support (β = 0.366, p < .001) jointly accounted for 19.3% of the variance in hope in life. Additionally, social support (β = 0.356, p < .001) and hope in life (β = 0.214, p < .001) collectively explained 23.6% of the variance in psychological well-being. The mediating role of hope in life in the relationship between attitudes toward aging and social support with individuals’ psychological well-being should be emphasized. Positive education programs appear to be essential for improving attitudes toward aging, increasing hope in life, and ultimately promoting psychological well-being in society.

Mexican sending region and workplace experience: A preliminary study of agricultural guestworkers in Ohio

This article shares the results of a 2022 survey of male, Mexican H-2A workers in Ohio (n = 267). We describe the demographic profile of this population, including age, years of experience in the program, education level, marital status, and Mexican sending state. We then examine the relationship between sending regions of Mexico and certain workplace outcomes, specifically likelihood of working for a foreign labor contrac­tor, subsector of H-2A labor, and risk of being charged to participate in the program. Findings include a higher risk of predatory recruitment prac­tices for men from Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Guerrero, and a funneling effect towards agriculture (as op­posed to nurseries) for those same states. Intended as exploratory research, the results lay the ground­work for similar projects in other states and suggest a place-based approach for developing improve­ments to the H-2A program.

Impact of Foot Reflexology Versus Simple Massage on Vital Signs, Anxiety, and Pain During Blood Transfusion Among Children With Thalassemia.

Introduction Children with thalassemia often require repeated invasive treatments and frequent hospitalizations, resulting in pain, anxiety, and altered vital signs. Implementing non-invasive, non-pharmacological, and inexpensive complementary practices can benefit both the child and their family. Aim This study aimed to evaluate the impact of foot reflexology versus simple massage on vital signs, anxiety,and pain induced by blood transfusions in children with thalassemia. Materials and methods An experimental study was conducted on 60 children with thalassemia; children aged 2-13 years were selected by systematic random sampling.The participants were separated into two groups: 30 children received foot reflexologyand 30 children received a simple massage. Data were collected using a self-structured demographic profile, vital signs record sheet, standard Observational Scale of Behavioral Distress-Revised (OSBD-R) scale,and visual analog scale (VAS). Paired and unpaired t-tests were used to evaluate the effects of the interventions. The chi-square test was utilized to evaluate the relationship between demographic and dependent variables. Result Foot reflexology showed a significant difference (P < 0.05) in systolic and diastolic blood pressure and a highly significant difference (P < 0.0001) in anxiety and pain. The simple massage group showed a significant effect on temperature, anxiety, and pain. Both groups demonstrated a significant impact (P < 0.05) on systolic blood pressure and pain after the intervention. Conclusion Most children were diagnosed with thalassemia during infancy, had a history of both parent's thalassemia minor, and were Rh+ve. Foot reflexology was more effective in reducing anxiety and pain than simple massage. Additionally, foot reflexology had a significant effect on systolic and diastolic blood pressure, while simple massage significantly affected temperature in children with thalassemia.

Beyond the Blackboard: Unveiling the Diverse Career Landscape of Education Graduates

This tracer study aimed to investigate the demographic, academic, and employment profile of 202 Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEED) graduates of Northern Iloilo State University (NISU), Philippines from A.Y 2016-2019. This study employed a quantitative approach with data collected through a modified questionnaire modeled from the Philippines’ Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Graduate Tracer Study. The findings showed that most graduates passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers and worked full-time, however, were underemployed. Most graduates acquired their first job in less than a year, but not in the field of education. The respondents found learned skills in communication, knowledge and technical, leadership, human relations, and ICT useful in the workplace to a great extent. However, research and problem-solving skills were found to be useful to a moderate extent. Among the difficulties faced by BEED graduates in finding a job, the limited job vacancies in the teaching profession or the lack of positions or permanent items in public elementary schools was pointed out as a major problem. The university is recommended to establish a dedicated unit for conducting regular tracer studies, integrate it into the college's quality assurance system, and strengthen partnerships with local employment offices and the private sector to ensure job opportunities for graduates. The Teacher Education Department may review and enhance its curriculum to align with the current demands of the teaching profession in public and private schools, both for local and international employment.

Insights into Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients: Unveiling Demographic, Clinical, and Therapeutic Profiles in a Leading Tertiary Referral Hospital in Yogyakarta

Insights into Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma Patients: Unveiling Demographic, Clinical, and Therapeutic Profiles in a Leading Tertiary Referral Hospital in Yogyakarta

Comparison of clinical and patient-reported outcomes in patients with benign euthyroid solitary nodules after ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation and endoscopic thyroidectomy.

Percutaneous ultrasound-guided microwave ablation (MWA) for benign solid thyroid nodules is the newest modality for treatment. However, the differences in treatment outcomes between MWA and endoscopic thyroidectomy vestibular approach (TOETVA) for patients with benign euthyroid solitary nodules remain unknown. We are sharing initial results from our prospective study. Prospective study between January 2022 and December 2023 was conducted and data were noted at 3 time points in patients planned for treatment (Preoperative, 1week, and 12months). Main outcome measures were clinical outcome and comparison of thyroid-related quality of life using the ThyPRO-39hin and swallowing-related quality of life using the SWAL-QoL. Of the 36 included patients, 20 patients underwent TOETVA and 16 underwent MWA. Both the groups were comparable in terms of demographic and clinicopathological profiles. The nodule volume reduction rate of patients at 12months after MWA was 75.10% and 100% for TOETVA. The mean preoperative ThyPRO-39hin and SWAL-QoL scores were comparable in all domains between the two groups. Mean ThyPRO-39hin and SWAL-QoL scores on postoperative day 7 were significantly better in the MWA group in domains impaired social life (p<0.0001) and impaired daily life (p=0.0002). However, at the end of 12months, mean ThyPRO-39hin and SWAL-QoL scores became significantly better in the TOETVA group as compared to the MWA group. Our findings suggest that transoral endoscopic thyroidectomy results in significant superior clinical outcome, thyroid-related quality of life, and swallowing-related quality of life in the long term.

Beyond Numbers: How Biochemical Parameters Can Predict Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis.

Introduction The treatment and management of patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) requires constant evaluation through the assessment of biochemical markers. This is necessary for treatment, to prevent progression to complications such as mineral bone disease, and to improve quality of life. We aimed to study the biochemical profile of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) grades4 and 5 onMHD, identify markers altered due to different etiologies, duration of illness, and duration of hemodialysis, and create a panel of markers that can be useful in planning better management. Methods All consecutive patients attending the dialysis unit of ESIC Super Speciality Hospital with CKD grade 4 or grade 5 on MHD between 2019 and 2020 were recruited. A detailed clinical history and demographic profile were taken, and blood samples were collected from the patients during follow-up visits in plain and EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) tubes for analysis. Results A total of 312 patients (22.1% females and 77.9% males.) with a mean age of 49.74 ± 11.49 years were recruited. In the study population, diabetic nephropathy (DN) (17%) and hypertensive nephropathy (48.7%) were the two most prevalent causes of CKD. The majority (64%) of the patients were on MHD three times a week. The range of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (ml/min/1.73 m2) at the time of initiation of MHD was 2.9-26.8 according to the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula. The mean duration of MHD was 51.58 months, with a mortality rate of 5.9% during the follow-up period (3-108 months). Conclusion Optimal selection and combination of biochemical tests will help in ascertaining the adequacy of management, progress of disease, or complications in MHD patients. This in turn will help guide the clinicians in effectively using these markers in their day-to-day practice.

Breast Cancer in Young Women: Analysis of Incidence, Clinicopathological Profile and Biological Behaviour in a Tertiary Care Institute from South India

Aims and Objectives: There is an increasing incidence of breast cancer in young women and many of these patients are considered to have more aggressive disease biology. The study aimed to find out the demographic profile, clinicopathological profile, and management details in patients under the age of 40 years treated for breast cancer in a tertiary care institute. Materials and Methods: The study retrospectively analysed all the females with biopsy proven breast cancer treated at our oncology department between January 2012 and December 2018. Patients aged below 40 years were stratified from the total breast cancer patients. The data related to demographic profile, clinical staging, pathological staging, hormonal status and treatment details were collected from medical records for the patients and analysed. Results: A total of 1056 biopsy proven breast cancer patients were treated during the study period. Out of which, the breast cancer patients under the age of 40 years were 161 (15.24%). The mean age at presentation was 33 years. Maximum patients were between the age group of 35 to 40 years (45.4%). Most of the patients were presented with Stage III (44%). Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma, Grade II was the most common histologic type and grade. ER (Oestrogen Receptor) positivity seen in 49% of patients and PR (Progesterone receptor) Positivity in 49.7% and 46% had HeR2 Positivity. Conclusion: Our study concludes that the incidence of breast cancer patients under the age of 40 years is increasing. These patients tend to have higher grade tumours, Her2 Positive and triple-negative breast cancer. Young patients presenting with breast lumps should undergo all standard screening and diagnostic investigations must be carried out for early diagnosis and proper interventions.

Demographic and Microbiological Profile of Corneal Ulcers in Eastern India.

To evaluate the microbiological profile of corneal ulcers presenting at a tertiary care eye hospital in eastern Uttar Pradesh (UP), India. This retrospective, observational study included patients with corneal ulcers who underwent corneal scraping and microbiological examination of the sample from May 2014 to October 2023. The demographic details, predisposing factors, and clinical examination data of the patients were noted. Microbiology report of staining and culture (blood agar and Sabaraud's dextrose agar) of corneal scraping sample was analyzed in percentage. Reports of antimicrobial susceptibility testing were also noted and analyzed. A total of 695 corneal scraping samples were examined during the study period. The mean age of the patients was 45.95 years. Among the patients, 412 (59.28%) were males and 283 (40.72%) were females. Among the patients, 402 (57.84%) belonged to an agricultural background. Trauma was the most common predisposing factor associated with 350 (50.36%) cases. The corneal scraping samples were stain-positive in 455 (65.47%) cases, of which, 130 (28.57%) were gram-positive and 325 (71.43%) were positive on potassium hydroxide (KOH) mount. Culture was positive in 306 (44.03%) cases, of which, bacterial isolates were found in 78 (25.49%), and fungal isolates were found in 228 (74.51%). Fusarium was the most common fungal isolate in 72 (31.58%) cases followed by Aspergillus in 60 (26.32%) cases. Among the bacterial isolates, Staphylococcus aureus was the most common in 20 (25.64%) cases followed by Pseudomonas and Streptococcus. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing showed that 47 (60.26%) of the bacterial isolates were sensitive to fluoroquinolones while the rest 31 (39.74%) were resistant. All the Staphylococcus aureus strains (including four cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) were susceptible to vancomycin and linezolid, while 7 (35%) were resistant to moxifloxacin. None of the Pseudomonas strains were multidrug resistant. Among the fungal isolates, 220 (96.49%) were susceptible to voriconazole and 189 (82.89%) were sensitive to amphotericin B. Fungal corneal ulcers are more common compared to bacterial ulcers in eastern India, particularly eastern UP and Bihar. This article highlights the importance of microbial testing and provides insight into the prevalent organisms and their antimicrobial susceptibility pattern in this geographic location, the knowledge of which will help clinicians in the appropriate management of these cases.

A Comparative Analysis of Business Models and their Impacts on Selected Indigenous Communities in Aklan, Philippines: Towards Sustainable Practices in Ancestral Domains

This study investigates the impacts of various economic models on indigenous communities in Aklan, Philippines, with a special focus on sustainable practices within their ancestral lands. It examines the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental consequences of different business models. Additionally, it delves into the community members’ perspectives and aspirations regarding sustainable development, highlighting the primary challenges and opportunities they face. The study utilized a quantitative research approach, employing structured surveys to collect data from participants. The poll encompassed inquiries regarding demographic profiles, assessments of commercial effects, as well as the difficulties and possibilities encountered by the communities. A Pearson correlation analysis was performed to ascertain the association between demographic characteristics and perceived impacts. The study found that business models had a favorable effect on the socio-economic status, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation of indigenous groups. Diverse advantages were noted in the benefits offered by various business structures. Perceptions of these impacts were significantly related to age, educational background, career, and length of involvement in community activities. The main obstacles encompassed issues related to financial accessibility, infrastructure development, regulatory barriers, and educational deficiencies. Potential areas for development were recognized in eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, partnerships with non-governmental organizations, market demand for indigenous products, and technology. The findings highlight the capacity of business models to improve the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental welfare of indigenous communities. It is essential to have customized company strategies that take into account the demographic variety. To achieve the successful adoption of sustainable business models, it is crucial to tackle financial, infrastructural, and regulatory obstacles. It is advised to improve financial assistance by providing grants and microfinance, investing in infrastructure, streamlining regulatory procedures, and establishing education and training initiatives. It is crucial to promote eco-tourism, enhance partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and stakeholders, and utilize technology to implement sustainable practices. It is crucial to have policies that effectively combine economic growth with the preservation of culture and the sustainability of the environment. Keywords: Indigenous communities, sustainable development, business models, Aklan, socio-economic impacts

The Level of Awareness and Acceptance of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act of 2016 and its Implications to Bureau of Customs Officials, Licensed Customs Brokers, and Stakeholders

This study was done to analyze the implication of Republic Act 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act of 2016, and its impact on the Bureau of Customs. Specifically, it looked into the demographic profile of the customs officials in terms of age, gender, year of service in the Bureau of Customs, highest educational attainment, number of conferences and seminars attended for the last 3 years, and licensure examination passed. For licensed customs brokers, their age, gender, number of years in the profession/business, highest educational attainment, number of conferences and seminars attended for the last 3 years, and licensure examination passed were profiled while the age, gender, number of years in the company, highest educational attainment, number of conferences and seminars attended for the last 3 years, and licensure examination passed were profiled. It f focused on the extent of the level of awareness of the three groups of respondents (Bureau of Customs Officials, Licensed Customs Brokers, and Stakeholders) on the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in terms of the declarant and its duties and responsibilities, international standards and practices, importation and exportation, the accuracy of database collection and consolidation, compliance to the Revised Kyoto Convention (Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of customs procedure) and revenue-generating agency. It also determined the level of acceptance of the three (3) groups of respondents in terms of the declarant and its duties and responsibilities, international standards and practices, importation and exportation, the accuracy of database collection and consolidation, compliance to the Revised Kyoto Convention (Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of customs procedure) and revenue-generating agency. Likewise, it looked into the significant difference among the level of awareness of the Bureau of Customs Officials, Licensed Customs Brokers, and Stakeholders (Importer, Exporter) as well as the significant difference among the levels of acceptance of the Bureau of Customs Officials, Licensed Customs Brokers and Stakeholders (Importer, Exporter) in terms of the declarant and its duties and responsibilities, international standards and practices, importation and exportation, the accuracy of database collection and consolidation, compliance to the Revised Kyoto Convention (Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of customs procedure) and revenue-generating agency, Moreover, it determined the challenges encountered in the implementation of CMTA on declarant provisions, international standard and practices, importation and exportation and compliance to the Revised Kyoto Convention (Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedure). Finally, found out how the Bureau of Customs Officials addresses the challenges encountered on declarant provisions, international standards and practices, importation and exportation, and compliance to the Revised Kyoto Convention (Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures). The researcher utilized the descriptive method of research, which was descriptive and comparative in approach. A total of 40 customs officials, licensed customs brokers, and 50 stakeholders were used as respondents of the study. Data for the research was gathered with the use of a research-made and validated survey questionnaire. Collected data however were subjected to statistical treatment with the application of the following descriptive and inferential statistical techniques; frequency, percentage, weighted mean, ANOVA, and t – Test. The study found that there is no significant difference between the extent of awareness and level of acceptance of the three groups of respondents on the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in terms of the selected variables. Keywords: Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, Level of Awareness, Level of Acceptance, Customs Brokers

Comparison of Short-Term Outcomes between Fractional Flow Reserve Guided and Intra-Vascular Ultrasound Guided Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Chronic Coronary Syndrome

Background: Fractional flow reserve (FFR) can provide information about physiologically significant coronary lesions that can be intervened. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is also useful in providing thorough assessment of the intermediate lesions. This study was conducted to compare the short-term outcomes of FFR and IVUS guided percutaneous coronary intervention of intermediate coronary artery lesions in chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) patients. Methods: This Quasi-experimental study was conducted in the department of Cardiology, NICVD, Dhaka, for 12-months following ethical approval. A total of 100 CCS patients were enrolled in this study and divided into Group-I (FFR guided PCI, n=50) and Group-II (IVUS guided PCI, n=50) after taking written informed consent. Patients were followed up to three months after PCI. Detailed history, thorough clinical examination and necessary investigations were carried out in each patient and recorded in predesigned structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed by SPSS 26.0. Results: Both groups were statistically similar in terms of demographic profile, clinical findings, risk factors, angiographic findings (p&gt;0.05) and angiographic success. Also, 96% in group-I and 92% in group-II respondents had procedural success. According to in hospital outcome, 1(2%) in group-I and 1(2%) in group-II respondents had myocardial infarction. 1(2%) respondent both in group -I and group-II also had LVF, while only 1(2%) respondent in group-II had death and cardiogenic shock respectively. Considering MACE after 03 months of follow up, 1(2%) death occurred in Group-II. However, no death in Group-I. 1(2%) respondent had NSTEMI in both groups. 1(2%) respondent had target vessel revascularization in Group-I and no respondents had in Group-II. While considering 1(2%) study population had faced cardiogenic shock, 1(2%) respondent had arrhythmia in both groups respectively and 1(2%) respondent had LVF in Group-I and 2(4%) had LVF in Group-II. ............

Extent of Utilization of Teaching Strategies Among Technical Vocational Teachers Across Demographic Profiles

Extent of Utilization of Teaching Strategies Among Technical Vocational Teachers Across Demographic Profiles

Ankylosing spondylitis in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty increases the risk of medical and implant-related complications: a case control analysis.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory spondyloarthropathy, often involving the spine and sacroiliac joints. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been shown to be effective in improving pain and function in patients with AS with hip involvement. However, extraskeletal manifestations and altered mechanics in those with AS leads to increased complications. Thus, the aims of this study were to assess the effects that AS has on medical and implant complications, falls, length of stay, and readmissions following THA. A retrospective review of the Mariner private insurance claims database was conducted from 2010 to 2020. All cases of THA and those with AS were identified using Current Procedural Terminology, and International Classification of Disease 9th and 10th revision codes. Patients who underwent THA with a diagnosis of AS were matched to non-AS patients 1:5 based on demographic and comorbidity profiles. 90-day medical complications, falls, and readmission rates, as well as 2-year implant complications were compared between cohorts. A total of 6509 AS patients were matched to 32,489 control patients. The AS group had significantly higher rates of myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, urinary tract infection, wound complications, acute kidney injury, pneumonia, sepsis, transfusions, and falls when compared to the control group. The AS group had significantly higher rates of prosthetic joint infection, dislocation, mechanical loosening, and periprosthetic fracture (all p < 0.0001). Likewise, mean length of stay and readmissions were significantly greater in the AS group. Ankylosing spondylitis in patients undergoing THA is associated with significant risk of medical and implant complications, as well as fall risk, length of stay, and readmission rates. These findings may allow orthopaedic surgeons to be more attentive in identifying those patients at risk and allow for more educated patient counseling and perioperative planning.

Mind the gap: English teachers’ perceptions and practices of integrating social media into language classrooms in China

This study investigates the perception-practice gap among English teachers in China concerning the integration of social media into teaching, blending the Language Teacher Cognition (LTC) framework with the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) model. A mixed methods approach, including the adoption of online questionnaires, instructional documents and semi-structured interviews was utilised to investigate these research questions from different perspectives. We collected 119 valid questionnaires. From these, we selected seven volunteers—those who provided their contact information and represented a range of demographic profiles—for further study. Seven instructional documents were gathered from these volunteers. Subsequently, follow-up interviews were conducted with these selected participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perspectives. The study revealed a significant discrepancy between moderately high perceptions and relatively low practices. This dynamic and bi-directional gap is influenced by microscopic factors like schooling and affective issues, as well as macroscopic factors such as institutional and societal influences. These factors constitute a layered system. The findings illuminate the complexities underlying the perception-practice gap in English teaching with social media integration, offering theoretical, methodological, and practical implications.

Outcome of posterior lamellar replacement with oral mucous membrane graft in lid margin sequalae of Steven Johnson syndrome

: to address common lid margin sequalae presented in steven Johnson syndrome and to assess the outcome of posterior lamellar replacement with oral mucous membrane graft. : This single center longitudinal study was conducted in Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute and Hospital. 56 diagnosed cases of Steven Johnson syndrome with lid margin sequalae during the period of July 2020 to June 2023 were included in the study. Patients with ocular cicatrizing pemphigoid and chemical burn were excluded from the study. Demographic profile, presenting lid margin sequalae, outcome of surgery and complication after intervention and its management were properly evaluated and recorded. : A total of 98 eyelids (upper and lower) in 56 patients were evaluated. The Mean age was 38.33 ± 15.22 years (range 6 – 70 years). 21 patients were male and 35 were female (male: female=1:1.66). 14 patients had unilateral defect and 42 patients have bilateral defect. Most common lid margin sequalae was lid margin keratinization (85.71%), distichiasis (62.5%), trichiasis (21.42%) and entropion (8.92%). All lid margin defect were successfully corrected by posterior lamellar replacement with oral mucous membrane graft. During 6 months post-operative follow up, significant symptomatic relief from epiphora, foreign body sensation, pain and photophobia were achieved in all patients. There was remarkable reduction of conjunctival inflammation (88.63%) and persistent corneal epithelial defect (71.42%). Mean visual acuity was significantly improved. Common complications of the surgery were misdirected lashes (7.14%), dislodgement of graft (2.04%%), and recurrent entropion (2.04%). All complication was successfully managed through appropriate second procedure.Posterior lamellar resection with an oral mucous membrane graft for modifying lid margin defects in Steven-Johnson syndrome shows promising results.

In sickness and health - a questionnaire based study regarding immune mediated diseases and neoplasia in Swedish Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers

BackgroundThe Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (NSDTR) has previously been highlighted as a breed at risk for developing immune mediated diseases and cancer. The immune response is of great importance for the development of neoplastic disease and a dysregulated immune response may predispose to cancer. Two of the commonly seen immune mediated diseases in NSDTRs are immune mediated rheumatic disease (IMRD), which bears similarities to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) affecting humans, and steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA), which is a non-infectious inflammation of the meninges and the leptomeningeal vessels. The aim of this survey study was to investigate the lifetime prevalence of immune mediated diseases and tumors among Swedish NSDTRs based on owners’ information. The study design was cross-sectional. A questionnaire was sent to 4102 persons who owned or had previously owned a NSDTR. The questions concerned information about the dog and its overall health status as well as specific diseases.ResultsThe response rate was 30%, including 935 live NSDTRs, corresponding to approximately 20% of the current population registered in Sweden (n = 4564), and 177 dead dogs. The surveyed dogs were spread over different ages and sex and corresponded to the typical demographic profile of the general dog population. Of the 935 individuals that were alive, 28 dogs (3%) were reported as previously diagnosed with IMRD and 33 dogs (3.5%) were reported as previously diagnosed with SRMA, one dog was reported to have been diagnosed with both SRMA and IMRD. There were 129 dogs (14%) reported to have or have had a neoplasia of some kind. For the dead dogs (n = 177), almost 40% of the owners reported neoplasia as the main reason for death/euthanasia.ConclusionThis study reports an estimated lifetime prevalence of IMRD and SRMA, in the studied population of Swedish NSDTRs, of 3.0 and 3.5% respectively. In this study, 14% of the living dogs (n = 935) were reported to have a neoplasia of some kind and almost 40% of the deceased dogs (n = 177) were euthanized due to neoplasia or suspicion of it.

Long-Term Outcomes of Anticomplement Factor H Antibody Positive Versus Negative Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Background Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a severe thrombotic microangiopathy predominantly affecting the kidneys, often associated with complement dysregulation. This study is aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics, treatment outcomes, and long-term implications of aHUS in a resource-limited setting. Materials and Methods A retrospective observational study conducted at an institute between January 2016 and December 2022 included all patients with aHUS, excluding secondary causes and renal transplant recipients. Demographic profiles, clinical features, laboratory parameters, treatment modalities (immunosuppression and plasma exchange), and outcomes were collected. Anticomplement Factor H (anti-CFH) antibody, complement levels, and genetic mutation analysis were performed to ascertain etiological factors. The patient and renal outcomes of anti-CFH positive and negative patients on long-term follow-up were compared. Results Fifty-seven patients (mean age: 12.5 ± 4.9 years; 63% males) were analyzed. Among them, 33 (57.9%) tested positive for anti-CFH antibodies and eight presented postpartum. Initial remission was achieved in 42 (73.6%) patients, with 13 (22.8%) partial and 29 (50.9%) complete remission. The median follow-up duration was 24 months [interquartile range (IQR) 8.5–84]; 12 (21%) patients died, with two deaths during the index admission, six among nonresponders, and 4 among responders. Dialysis-free renal survival was superior in anti-CFH seropositive patients (81.2%) compared to seronegative counterparts (55.9%), while patient survival was statistically similar between the two groups. Elevated anti-CFH titers (&gt;4000 AU/ml), age ≥16 years, female gender, and seizures predicted nonresponsiveness. Conclusion Anti-CFH antibody associated aHUS had better kidney outcomes than the seronegative counterparts. In resource limited settings, a combination of plasma exchange and immunosuppression showed promising results in the short and long term.