bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Corneal Thickness and Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer Thickness in Predicting Skeletal Class I Vs Class II Patterns - A Correlative Study
Authors:   PhD scholar, Dept. Of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, 244001, Uttar Pradesh, India, Rastogi Sonam , Goyal Manish , Kumar Mukesh
Published: August 2024

Objectives: To identify correlation between skeletal Class I and Class II pattern based on corneal thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. Methods: A total of seventy subjects were enrolled in the study with age ranging from 14-20 years. Using five orthodontic parameters (ANB, W, Yen, NA, NB) subjects were equally divided into two groups (Class I , Class II). Eye parameters (Corneal thickness and Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness) of each subject were measured and correlated with each skeletal pattern. Following the compilation of descriptive statistics, a t-test was used to make a comparison between the groups, and then Pearson's correlation was used to analyze the results. P≤0.05 was used as the level of statistical significance for this study. Findings: There was no statistically significant difference in the mean age and gender of the Class I and Class II samples, suggesting that the two groups' demographics were similar. There was no statistically significant difference in comparison between the Corneal thickness & Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness in Skeletal Class I vs Class II subjects. Pearson’s Correlation showed no statistically significant association between the eye parameters and Skeletal Class. Novelty: This study concludes that there is no association between eye parameters and Skeletal Class pattern based on Corneal thickness and Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness. Further research involving larger sample-size and incorporating more eye parameters are required to understand the relationship between the two systems. Keywords: Eye, Skeletal Class I, Skeletal Class II, Stomatognathic System, Corneal thickness, Retinal nerve layer thickness
Enhanced Detection and Segmentation of Retinal Exudates in Diabetic Retinopathy using a Feature Pyramid Network with EfficientNet-B0 Encoder
Authors:   Research Scholar, Computer Science and Engineering, Chaitanya (Deemed to be University), Himayatnagar, Telangana, India, Praneeth D , Kumar N Satheesh , Nagaraju V
Published: August 2024

Objective: To investigate the Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) application using a Feature Pyramid Network (FPN) with the use of EfficientNet-B0 as an encoder for exudates detection and segmentation in retinal images and also the performance of precise exudates evaluation. Methods: The two-stage method mainly detects and eliminates the optic disc, which is subsequently essential to nullifying false positives, and then detects the segment exudates. The model is based on the EfficientNet-B0 encoder in the FPN architecture, which benefits from multi-scale feature representation, which is fundamental in exudates of dissimilar sizes and shapes. The DiaRetDB1-V2.1 public dataset1 is considered to evaluate the proposed model. The dataset consists of 89 color fundus images and was split into 7:3, which indicates that 70% of the data was utilized for training and 30% for testing. To validate the proposed model, the Test Pixel Accuracy and Mean IoU are the performance metrics, and these values are compared with the state-of-the-art models. Findings: This study introduced an innovative method for finding the segment exudates in retinal images using an FPN with EfficientNet-B0 as an encoder. The proposed approach consists of two key parts: the first is to find the optical disc in retinal images and remove it. The second is to identify and perform accurate segmentation of the exudates. The FPN with EfficientNet-B0 achieved the highest pixel accuracy of 99.80%, which indicates that the accurate classified pixels were higher than the other models. Test Set mIoU provided the overlap measure in performance with the ground truth. A higher value of mIoU indicates better performance in terms of precision and recall. The proposed FPN with EfficientNet-B0 achieved mIoU by 81.52% which is better than Unet, UnetPlusPlus and MANet methods. Novelty: The proposed research discovered a powerful and effective method for segmenting and detecting exudates in retinal images using the FPN EfficientNet-B0 Encoder. Keywords: ­Diabetic Retinopathy, Exudates Detection and Segmentation, FPN, EfficientNet­B0, Optic Disc Detection and Segmentation
Solving Larger Order Uncertain Differential Equations by Newly Attained Fourth Order R-K Method
Authors:   Research Scholar, PG and Research Department of Mathematics, Bishop Heber College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India, Suvitha S , Sharmila R Gethsi
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Deriving a new numerical method to solve uncertain differential equations of larger order. Method: Uncertain differential equations of larger order are dealt numerically with Seikkala findings. Runge-Kutta method with linear combinations of means is followed. Findings: The fourth-order Runge-Kutta method based on a linear combination of arithmetic mean, geometric mean and contraharmonic mean is applied to determine the numerical solution. Novelty: This approach is illustrated by solving second and third order FIVP problems. The comparative analysis of the results between the existing and the proposed method shows that the results produced by the proposed method yield more accurate result than the existing classical RK method of order 4. The findings indicate that the proposed approach is well suited for obtaining the approximate solution of nth-order FIVPs. Keywords: ­ Fuzzy numbers, FIVP Problems, Runge­Kutta method, Arithmetic mean, Contra harmonic Mean, Geometric mean, Lipschitz condition
Unique Strong Isolate Semitotal Domination in Graphs
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Mathematics, CBM College, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu, India, Mutharasu Sivagnanam , Nithya D
Published: August 2024

Objective: This study introduces a new domination parameter called “Unique strong isolate semitotal domination”. Methods: A unique strong isolated semitotal dominating set(USISTD-set) D of a graph G is an isolated semitotal dominating set(ISTD-set) in which there exists exactly one vertex such that . Findings: This study gives the USISTD-number of some special graphs. Also, it discusses about the non-existence of USISTD-number in some graphs. Novelty: A few findings of a new domination parameter called unique strong islolate semitotal domination of some special graphs have been established. AMS subject classification: 05C69 Keywords: Isolate semitotal domination, Unique strong isolate semitotal domination, Comb graph, Helm graph, Flower graph, Excellent graph
Anticancer Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from the Ink of Uroteuthis Duvaucelii on HeLa (Human Cervix Adenocarcinoma Cell Line) Cells
Authors:   Ph. D. Research Scholar (19112212192007), PG & Research Department of Zoology,, St. Mary’s College (Autonomous), Thoothukudi, Affiliated to Manonmanium Sundaranar University, Abhishekapatti, Tirunelveli, 627 012, Tamil Nadu, India, Monica G , Diaz Jemma Hermelin Jesy
Published: August 2024

Objectives : The present study was carried out to assess the anticancer activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles synthesized from the ink of U. duvaucelii for cell proliferation and cytotoxicity on HeLa (Human cervix adenocarcinoma cell line) cells. Methods : MTT Assay was carried out to evaluate the anticancer activity of zinc oxide nanoparticles from the ink of Uroteuthis duvaucelii. Findings : The zinc-oxide nanoparticles had significant cytotoxicity on HeLa cells in different concentrations (25, 50, 100, 200, 500 µg/ml). A maximum of 37% toxicity was observed at 500µg/ml and a minimum of 1% at 25µg/ml. The cell viability of squid ink varied from 63% (500µg/ml) to 99% (25µg/ml). The percentage of toxicity increased with increasing concentration of zinc-oxide nanoparticles. The result proved that the zinc-oxide nanoparticle from the ink is a source to be considered as a promising agent in cancer treatments. Novelty : At present, there is a growing need to develop environmentally benign nanoparticle synthesis without using any toxic chemicals and the preparation of uniform nanosized drug particles with specific requirements in terms of size, shape, and physical-chemical properties is of great interest in the formation of new pharmaceutical products. Zinc oxide nanoparticles have excellent biocompatibility, low toxicity, and destroy cancer cells specifically. So, the synthesized nanoparticles from the ink of Uroteuthis duvaucelii can be used for targeted chemotherapy in the future as they have anticancer properties. Keywords: Uroteuthis duvaucelii; Zinc-oxide nanoparticles; Squid ink; Anticancer activity; HeLa cells.
A Finite Capacity Finite Source Single Server Markovian Queueing System with Discouraged Arrivals Retention of Reneged Customers and Controllable Arrival Rates with Feedback
Authors:   PG & Research Department of Mathematics, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Affiliated to Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India, Bebittovimalan A , Thiagarajan M
Published: August 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to (i) introduce a finite capacity finite source of interdependent queueing model and retention of reneged customers with feedback controllable arrival rates, (ii) compute the mean quantity of clients within the system and determine the anticipated waiting time of those clients, (iii) deal with the model descriptions, steady-state equations, and characteristics, which are expressed in terms and (iv) analyze the probabilities of the queueing system and its characteristics with numerical verification of the obtained results. (v) Observe graphical representation for Methods : The Poisson process is used to manage the arrival rates through quicker and slower arrival rates while delivering the input. The service additionally offers an exponential distribution. The service is supplied by the server using FCFS. In this article, two types of models are used: one that represents the system’s conditions by the number of units present in the queue, and another that distributes all probabilities based on the speed of arrival using this concept. Then, the steady-state probabilities are computed using a recursive approach. Findings: This paper explores the average number of clients using the system and the expected number of clients in the system, based on the probability derived from the steady-state calculation. Little’s formula is used to derive the expected waiting period of the clients in the system. Novelty: There are articles connected to the finite capacity of failed service in functioning and malfunctioning, but this takes the initiative to provide a link in connection with the rates of the controllable arrivals and interdependency in the arrival and service processes. This is the new model of M/M/1/K/N controllable arrival rates derived. Mathematics Subject allocation: 60K25, 68M20, 90B22. Keywords: Finite Capacity, Finite Source, Interdependent Controllable, Arrival and Service rates, Reverse balking, Single Server, Bivariate Poisson process and feedback
Effect of Anchor System on Postural Control, Balance, and Lower Extremity Function in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors:   Krupanidhi College of Physiotherapy, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, Deshmukh Aishwarya , Varathan Kalidasan
Published: August 2024

Objective: To ascertain how anchor system training affects the participants with multiple sclerosis's balance, postural control, and lower extremity functions. Method: Thirty multiple sclerosis subjects based on inclusion criteria. After obtaining informed consent, the study subjects received anchor system training sessions lasting 40 minutes per session, two days/week for six weeks. MS subjects were assessed before and after six weeks for balance, postural control, and lower extremity function using TUGT, FRT, LRT, AND LEFS. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and reliability test statistics. Findings: The time up and go test for the subjects before and after the intervention protocol were 26.53±1.52 and 21.66±2.46, respectively. The score was statistically significant with p=0.001 (p<0.05), indicating a significant improvement in the balance component of motor symptoms in MS after six weeks of intervention protocol. This study measured postural control using the forward and lateral reach tests. The pre- and post-FRT mean for the right upper extremity of the study participants was 13.87±1.08, 19.05±1.39 respectively, and the mean left upper extremity of the study participants was 14.05±1.14 and 19.2±1.51. Pre- and post-LRT mean for the right upper extremity of the study participants was 11.27±0.96 and 16.78±1.20 respectively, and the mean left upper extremity of the study participants was 11.32±0.95 and 16.93±1.18. The score was statistically significant with p=0.001 (p<0.05) for both the FRT and LR. For lower extremity function LEFS (scores:33.70±2.92 and 39.90±3.58) (p< 0.05), which infers a significant improvement in the lower extremity function of motor symptoms in MS after 6 weeks of intervention protocol. Conclusion: The study concludes that the anchor system significantly improves balance, regulates alignment, and improves lower limb functioning with multiple sclerosis. Novelty: The study's innovation lies in incorporating a suitable and focused assessment tool, namely a rehabilitation of equilibrium, maintaining alignment, and limb work. Keywords: Balance, Postural control, Nonrigid tool, Lower limb function, Neurological symptoms
Refractive index adjusted imaging medium: Sorbitol (RI ~ 1.4) - Yeast v1
Authors: Hammer Mathias , Rossouw Ammeret
Published: August 2024

This protocol describes the steps to prepare imaging medium for Saccharomyces cerevisiae with adjusted refractive index. This medium is optimized for fluorescence imaging by the reduction of auto-fluorescence through an abundance of Adenine [1] and the repression of of the Met-promoted pp7- CP expression [2].
The intraluminal administration of Indocyanine green as a method of intraoperative diagnostics of machine suture incompetence in experimental cases of longitudinal gastric resection
Authors: Kovalev Aleksandr A. , Kornyushin Oleg V. , Papayan Garry V. , Masley Vitaliy V. , Neimark Aleksandr E. , Zelinskaya Irina A. , Toropova Yana G. , Semenova Natalia Y. , Zinserling Vsevolod A. , Starzhevskaya Anastasia V. , Danilov Ivan N.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Bariatric surgery represents an actively developing surgery field. With this, thanks to using modern automated methods of dissecting and suturing the tissues, a significant decrease is observed in the number of postoperative complications. At the same time, the problem of surgical suture incompetence remains topical even at the present times. The traditional methods of intraoperative diagnostics of incompetence are the provocative tests: the methylene blue test and the air leak test. One of the promising methods for intraoperative control during surgery is the use of fluorescent visualization in the near infrared range using the indocyanine green (ICG).
AIM: Evaluate the informativity of intraoperative diagnostics of machine suture incompetence during the longitudinal gastric resection using fluorescent visualization with indocyanine green (ICG) by using the pig model to imitate various reasons of incompetence and to control surgical complications using morphological tests.
METHODS: The research was carried out with using 20 pigs, each of which underwent the longitudinal gastric resection. The animals were distributed into the following experimental groups: the control group with performing standard longitudinal gastric resection (n=4) and the tests groups with longitudinal gastric resection and modeling of two variants of mechanical reasons of incompetence (n=12), as well as the local ischemia group (n=4). Intraoperationally, the gastric lumen was filled with a solution containing methylene blue and indocyanine green, after which, an evaluation was performed of the developed staining or Indocyanine green fluorescence visualization. Besides, in the ischemia group, ICG was administered intravenously. On Day 7 after surgery, samples were taken for histological examination.
RESULTS: In 10 out of 11 experiments with the mechanical factor of modeling used to stimulate the machine suture incompetence, ICG visualization was found, with the ingress of methylene blue found in two cases out of 11, respectively. In 90% of the cases, the transudation of ICG corresponded to significant signs of inflammation, with the ingress of methylene blue being found only in 20% of the cases.
CONCLUSION: The method of intraluminal administration of Indocyanine green in “mechanical” models of machine suture incompetence upon longitudinal gastric resection is more informative comparing to the introduction of methylene blue. Data from fluorescent ICG-angiography completely correspond to the location of ischemia modeling area.
The first experience of thoracoscopic thymectomy from a unified subxiphoid access
Authors: Epifantsev Evgeny A. , Gritsun Vladimir Y. , Khabarov Yuriy A. , Ivanov Yuriy V.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: Thoracoscopic thymectomy performed with using the lateral intercostal access in cases of non-invasive thymic tumors is the commonly used technique. Most frequently, the three-port and the single-port techniques are used. As the experience was accumulating, it became evident that the intercostal access has a number of disadvantages, such as unsatisfactory visualization of the nerve on the opposite side and of the cervical portion of the thymus, along with a probably of developing chronic pain syndrome. One of the possible solutions for this issue can include the use of sub-xyphoid access.
AIM: An evaluation of direct results obtained when using the unified sub-xyphoid access during thoracoscopic thymectomy in patients with non-invasive epithelial thymic tumors.
METHODS: An experience was analyzed that was gained after the treatment of 14 patients undergoing thoracoscopic thymectomy using the unified sub-xyphoid access for non-invasive epithelial tumors of the thymus. The age of the patients ranged from 24 to 70 years (median — 42 years); 9 of them were females (64.3%) and 5 were males (35.7%). In all the patients, at the moment of surgical treatment, stage I disease was diagnosed. The minimal dimension of the excised thymoma in this research was 15 mm with the maximal dimension being 65 mm, the median value was 38 mm.
RESULTS: Two surgeries (14.3%) were accompanied with technical difficulties due to the presence of an adhesion process after a previous episode of pulmonary inflammation, which resulted in more significant intraoperative blood loss, which was 200 ml. The surgery duration varied from 60 to 180 minutes with the median of 82.5 minutes. In the majority of cases (97.6%), the pain syndrome level did not exceed 4 points of the visual analogue scale for pain. During the postoperative period, a single surgical complication was reported — the development of the retrosternal hematoma; no fatal outcomes were reported.
CONCLUSION: The thoracoscopic thymectomy from the unified sub-xyphoid access is a justified option for cases of non-invasive epithelial thymic tumors. This method allows for performing the surgery in full range, not violating the oncology principles. It was proven that, for tumors measuring up to 65 mm, this method does not result in an increase in surgery duration or an increase in the rates of intraoperative complications.
Assessment of the adaptive capacity of children and adolescents in environmentally challenging conditions
Authors: Ermolaeva Svetlana V.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND: A number of recent studies have demonstrated an increase in the number of children and adolescents with deviations in physical development attributing this increase to the effects of environmental pollution. The ability of children and adolescents to adapt to their environment can serve as an indicator of their physical development in unfavorable environmental conditions.
AIM: To assess the physical development and adaptive capacity of children and adolescents living in regions with varying degrees of anthropogenic impact on the environment.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: An analysis of the environmental situation in the Ulyanovsk region was carried out based on the author’s own research of atmospheric air, drinking water and soil samples collected from residential areas in 2009–2023. The study focused on identifying pollutants in the natural environment and calculating a comprehensive pollution indicator for each environmental component. In addition, a survey of schoolchildren in the Ulyanovsk region was conducted. Height, weight, chest circumference, body mass index, heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured. The adaptation capacity (AC) of the study participants was calculated using the Baevsky formula.
RESULTS: Schoolchildren of both genders, who lived in regions with low level of anthropogenic impact on the environment, had higher values for morphological and functional characteristics than schoolchildren in regions with high degree of anthropogenic impact. Median AC values for boys and girls in the latter group were higher than those in the former, suggesting heightened adaptation mechanisms in environmentally disadvantaged areas. The differences in AC among girls closely mirrored those observed in boys, albeit across fewer age-groups, potentially indicating greater adaptive reserves in the latter group.
CONCLUSION: Our findings can be used for sanitary and hygienic monitoring, prevention of childhood morbidity and the development of environmental strategies to reduce the adverse effects of environmental factors on public health.
Data-Driven Approach for Damage Detection Leveraging the Digital Thread
Authors:   , Malik Sarah , Kontsos Antonios , Najafi Ahmad Raeisi
Published: August 2024

Damage incubation, initiation and growth in materials and structures represents a significant engineering challenge related to their safe use, maintenance and remaining useful life in engineering applications. Common damage sources include cracks, delaminations and corrosion, among others, the detection of which has long been the objective of applying Nondestructive evaluation (NDE) methods. Sensing and data processing of common NDE are currently plagued by the challenge of handling large volumes of data, the processing of which often also requires offline analysis and expert knowledge. This creates a significant challenge when attempting to assess the structural integrity of complex engineering structures in operation, fast and reliably. In this context, this research proposes to leverage recent advances in digital processing, as well as developments in the use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to develop automated and data-driven ways to perform damage detection. To achieve this goal, the research presented introduces a Digital Thread between sensors and decision making, leveraging an Internet of Things architecture coupled with a data fusion approach which uses both deep learning and information entropy models. To demonstrate the potential of this methodology, two representative cases of damage detection involving laboratory cases of crack monitoring in a metal alloy subjected to mechanical testing and of defect detection while performing polymer 3D-printing are presented. These cases were chosen as representative examples in which a data-driven approach for damage detection could be used not only for diagnostics but also for prognostics and feedback control. The development of this approach considers the need for scalability, customization and performance in near real-time. As such, requirements, system development as well as performance assessment are presented.
SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW: PENDEKATAN TEACHING AT THE RIGHT LEVEL (TARL) TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR MATEMATIKA SISWA
Authors: Shabrina Zayyan , Sukoriyanto Sukoriyanto , Wibisono Anang Bulgur
Published: August 2024

Teaching at The Right Level (TaRL) adalah pendekatan yang menyesuaikan pembelajaran dengan kebutuhan dan pemahaman individu siswa. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis studi-studi tentang pendekatan TaRL terhadap hasil belajar matematika siswa dalam rentang waktu 2022-2024. Metode penelitian ini yang digunakan systematic literature review (SLR). Pengumpulan data menggunakan protokol PRISMA. Variabel moderator yang digunakan meliputi tahun publikasi, metode penelitian, jenjang pendidikan, ukuran sampel, dan demografi penelitian. Data disajikan secara deskriptif kuantitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa studi pendekatan TaRL terhadap hasil belajar matematika siswa: 1) Tahun publikasi terbanyak adalah tahun 2023; 2) Jenjang pendidikan yang paling banyak diteliti adalah SD/MI; 3) Penelitian menggunakan mix method mendominasi; 4) Ukuran sampel yang sering digunakan memiliki frekuensi di bawah 30 sampel; dan 5) Fokus penelitian masih terpusat di Jawa Tengah. Penelitian selanjutnya dapat lebih meneliti pada jenjang pendidikan dan mempertimbangkan penggunaan ukuran sampel serta metode penelitian yang digunakan untuk memberikan wawasan yang lebih lengkap.
DAYA ANTIBAKTERI COSMOS CAUDATUS KUNTH. DAN COSMOS SULPHUREUS CAV. DALAM MENGHAMBAT PERTUMBUHAN BAKTERI PROPIONIBACTERIUM ACNES SECARA IN VITRO
Authors: Sholihatul Fadhilah Athiyatus
Published: August 2024

Studi ini bertujuan untuk menguji pengaruh ekstrak daun C. caudatus dan C. sulphureus terhadap pertumbuhan bakteri P. acnes, serta untuk mengevaluasi perbedaan dalam pengaruh konsentrasi dan interaksi antara kedua ekstrak tersebut dalam menghambat pertumbuhan bakteri P. acnes. Metode ekstraksi menggunakan metode maserasi dengan pelarut etanol 96%, dilanjutkan dengan analisis fitokimia dan uji antibakteri terhadap P. acnes menggunakan metode difusi agar sumuran. Hasil analisis fitokimia menunjukkan keberadaan flavonoid, saponin, fenolat, alkaloid, dan tanin dalam kedua ekstrak. Hasil uji antibakteri menunjukkan adanya perbedaan signifikan antara ekstrak C. caudatus dan C. sulphureus dalam menghambat pertumbuhan bakteri P. acnes. Konsentrasi 70% dari ekstrak C. caudatus dan konsentrasi 90% dari ekstrak C. sulphureus menunjukkan efektivitas tertinggi dalam menghambat pertumbuhan bakteri P. acnes. Interaksi antara ekstrak C. caudatus pada konsentrasi 70% juga menunjukkan efek yang baik dalam menghambat pertumbuhan bakteri P. acnes. Kesimpulannya, ekstrak daun C. caudatus dan C. sulphureus memiliki potensi sebagai agen antibakteri terhadap bakteri P. acnes, dengan konsentrasi tertentu yang lebih efektif dalam menghambat pertumbuhannya.
Exploring the impact of field-based functional exercises on children with mental health disorders: A scoping review
Authors: Alagappan
Published: August 2024

This scoping review synthesizes current research on the effects of field-based functional exercises on children with mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. These exercises, conducted in outdoor or natural settings, have shown potential benefits in improving physical health, mental well-being, and social skills. A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO identified 42 relevant studies published between 2013 and 2023. The findings highlight the positive impact of activities such as team sports, nature walks, and mindfulness practices on mood, cognitive function, and social interaction. However, challenges such as engagement difficulties, behavioral issues, and accessibility were also noted. The review emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to individual needs, ensuring inclusivity, and providing adequate supervision. Future research should focus on optimizing these interventions for broader accessibility and effectiveness.
The impact of parent pressure and peer-related factors on academic performance of undergraduate nursing students
Authors: John Bindu , Marath Usha , Biju Ann Mariya , Roy Ashly Sara , Shine Bhavana , Jees Chinnu , Pious Ciya G
Published: August 2024

Nursing students experience greater pressure from various sources of academic life, which ultimately creates stress among them. This study aimed to assess the impact of parental pressure and peer-related factors on academic performance of undergraduate nursing students, and to explore its relationship with their academic performance, and to determine the association of sociodemographic variables on parental pressure and peer-related factors.

A descriptive, cross-sectional survey design, with a convenience sampling was adopted in this study. Participants were 408 undergraduate nursing students belonging to first, second, third or fourth year, and studying in various nursing colleges at Ernakulam district, Kerala, India. The data were collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire, parent pressure rating scale, peer- influence rating scale and an academic performance assessment rating scale.

About 79.41 percent and 66.91 percent of the participants reported to have low parental pressure and peer influence on their academic performance respectively, and 20.5 percent and 32.59 percent of the participants reported moderate parent pressure and peer-influence on their academic performance respectively. A highly significant weak negative correlation was found between parental pressure and academic performance and between peer-related factors and academic performance. Parental pressure was significantly associated with birth order of the participants, father’s occupation and the study type of the participants.

The study results suggest that there is a significant negative influence of both parental and peer-related factors on academic performance of adolescents. Future studies can explore in detail the factors which could positively and negatively influence the nursing students’ academic performance.
Inovação curricular das residências multiprofissionais em saúde: a experiência da Escola de Saúde Pública do Ceará
Authors: Silva Gomes José Edmilson , De Sousa Brito Valesca , Rodrigues Soares Holanda Kellyane Munick , De Araújo Oliveira Maria Jamisse , Belém Mônica de Oliveira
Published: August 2024

O Sistema Único de Saúde enfrenta um desafio crucial: transcender os modelos hegemônicos e centralizados que permeiam os campos da Saúde e da Educação. Este estudo relata a experiência da II Oficina de Requalificação da Matriz Curricular de Programas de Residência da Escola de Saúde Pública do Ceará, com foco na atualização curricular alinhada ao Projeto Político Pedagógico da instituição. A oficina, realizada em sete encontros presenciais, remotos e híbridos, contou com a participação de 85 profissionais da área da saúde envolvidos na gestão das residências da Escola de Saúde Pública do Ceará. Os participantes foram divididos em onze Grupos de Trabalho, cada um referente a um programa de residência multiprofissional, para a elaboração dos seguintes produtos: perfil do egresso, competências, objetivos de estratégias educacionais, aprendizagem e avaliação. A oficina evidenciou a relevância da atualização curricular contínua em consonância com o Projeto Político Pedagógico da instituição formadora. Os debates e o trabalho colaborativo dos Grupos de Trabalho permitiram a construção de um currículo atualizado e alinhado às necessidades do mercado de trabalho e do Sistema Único de Saúde. A II Oficina de Requalificação da Matriz Curricular de Programas de Residência da Escola de Saúde Pública do Ceará contribuiu significativamente para a atualização do currículo, com foco na formação de profissionais de saúde qualificados para atuar no contexto do Sistema Único de Saúde em consonância com as Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais para a área da saúde.
Palavras-chave: Acesso a Tecnologias em Saúde; Internato não Médico; Saúde Pública; Educação em Saúde; Sistema Único de Saúde.
Effectiveness of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Ultrasound Examination in Visualizing Anal Fistulas
Authors: Ilkanich Andrey Yanoshevich , Zubailov Kazimagomed Zubailovich , Kabanov Alexey  Alexandrovich , Devyatkina Tatyana Valeryevna
Published: August 2024

Chronic paraproctitis is one of the most common proctological diseases with prevalence equal 8 - 23 cases per 100,000 population. Ultrasound examination (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allow studying in detail the fistula topography, presence or absence of purulent leaks and cavities in the perirectal space and fistula relations to the closure apparatus of the rectum. The relevance of choosing an effective option to diagnose rectal fistulas is associated with the potential preoperative determination of the optimal surgical treatment option.The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound in the visualization of anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin.Materials and methods. The study included 88 (100%) patients with anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin treated in the proctology department of the Surgut District Clinical Hospital in 2023. The authors analysed results of patients’ examinations. Both general clinical and instrumental investigations were involved: collection of complaints and anamnesis of the disease, inspection and palpation of the perianal area, digital anorectal examination, probing of the fistula tract, dye test, anoscopy, rectoscopy or videocolonoscopy, ultrasound examination of the pelvis and magnetic resonance imaging of the perineum. All patients in the analysed group were found to have complex anal fistulas: cases of transsphincteric fistulas involving more than 30% of the sphincter and cases of extrasphincteric fistulas. Magnetic resonance imaging of the perineum and ultrasound examination of the pelvis were performed to visualise the fistulas. All patients were divided into two groups; the first group included 76 (86.4%) patients who underwent MRI of the perineum, the second group included 12 (13.6%) patients who underwent ultrasound examination of the pelvis. The data obtained during ultrasound and MRI examinations were compared with the intraoperative findings. Statistical analysis was performed using the StatTech v. 3.1.8 program (developer OOO Stattech, Russia) based on the created database in Microsoft Excel software with the determined sensitivity and accuracy of each diagnostic option.Results. The topography of the fistula passage, indicating localization of the internal fistula opening, was determined in 76 (86.4%) patients during MRI and in 12 (13.6%) patients during pelvic ultrasound examination. During surgical intervention, the discrepancy between the MRI data and the topography of the fistula was revealed in 2 (2.3%) cases, according to ultrasound data - in 3 (3.4%).Conclusions. The analysis demonstrated 100% sensitivity of magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound examination in diagnosing anal fistulas, with an MRI accuracy equal 97.4%, ultrasound accuracy equal 75.1%, respectively.
Promising Directions in Radiation Diagnostics of Oncopathology – Potentials of Radiomics in Digital Analysis of Features of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Stepanova Yulia Aleksandrovna , Babadjanova Kristina Azamovna
Published: August 2024

In the structure of all malignant liver tumors, hepatocellular carcinoma accounts for 75-90% of cases and is a crucial issue for health care providers due to low survival rates. In most cases, this is due to late diagnosis, when the possibility of radical surgical treatment is excluded. In this context, a critical issue is not only the primary verification of the tumor, but also differential diagnostics, which allows optimizing tactical options for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. One of the promising areas in modern radiation diagnostics is the technique of high-performance quantitative image analysis, which is called "Radiomics". The literature review highlights current trends in the use of artificial intelligence in diagnostics, dynamic monitoring and prognosis for hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite achievements in this field, the problem of using artificial intelligence in digital visualization of liver tumors is still far from being solved. To maximize the usefulness of this non-invasive diagnostic analysis, further research is required.
The Comparison of Immunohistochemistry Characteristics Between Breast Cancer Patients Under 35 Years Old and Above
Authors: Saeidpour Golareh , Lashkari Marzieh , Saeidpour Ramtin , Mir Ali
Published: August 2024

The increasing incidence rate of breast cancer in young women necessitates investigations of clinical and pathological features in this age group. Less hormone receptor expressions and more aggressive behavior have been discussed in very young breast cancer patients. In this study, pathological data of patients diagnosed with Invasive ductal carcinoma referred to Shariati hospital and Tehran cancer institute between 2015 and 2018 was evaluated in two groups: under 35 years old (Group 1) and above (Group 2). Each group contained 156 cases. Estrogen and Progesterone Receptor expression was reported in 62.8% and 63.5% of Group 1, in comparison to 77.6% and 74.4% in Group 2 (P value= 0.004 and 0.0038). Her2 expression was found in 41% of Group 1 and 21.2% of Group 2 (P value= 0.0001). Ki67 was reported as 41.2 ± 25.2 in Group 1 and 29.6 ± 21.7 in Group 2 (P value= 0.001). In conclusion, negative hormone receptor, positive Her2 expression, and higher proliferation rates are found in breast cancer patients under 35 years old.
Vitamins in COVID-19: Probable Mechanisms and Efficacy
Authors: Najdaghi Soroush , Razi Sepideh , Saghazadeh Amene
Published: August 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), also known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is a pandemic crisis. Little is known about the treatment of this disease, and supportive care is the only therapy for patients with COVID-19. It has been shown that mineral vitamins have an important role in improving the health status of patients, and several studies have investigated their effects on patients affected with other coronaviruses. In this review, the probable mechanisms of action of each vitamin against COVID-19 infection, the benefits of co-therapy of vitamins with other supplements, and the recommended daily intake of each nutrient are discussed.
Is Gender Important on Laboratory Variables and Complications in Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Gholami Farzane , Mehrabbeik Akram , Nikkhah Haniyeh , Namiranian Nasim , Ghadiri-Anari Akram , Azizi Reyhaneh
Published: August 2024

Objective: Type 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most prevent metabolic disease. Gender differences are important in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of many diseases. The aim of this study is to investigate the gender effect on laboratory variables and complications in patients with T2DM.
Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, patients with T2DM between 35 -65 years old who referred to Diabetes Research Center, Yazd, Iran during 2018-2019 were studied. Demographic features and clinical information of patients were extracted from patients' medical records. All information and variables were examined in two groups according to gender and the data were analyzed using SPSS 19.
Results: Totally, 1931 patients were enrolled in the study (988 females and 943 males). Most of the patients (68.6%) were treated with insulin. Body mass index was higher in women than in men. The variables of LDL (P= 0.029), triglyceride (P< 0.001) and retinopathy (P= 0.021), were significantly different between men and women
Conclusion: The results of this study showed there are significant differences between male and female patients with T2DM in terms of lipid profiles and retinopathy
Comparison of Thrice-daily Novomix Insulin Versus Insulin Glargine Once-Daily Combined with Thrice-Daily Insulin Aspart on Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mirtorabi Seyyed Hossein , Razavi Roghaye , Mirjalili Roghaye , Namiranian Nasim , Modarresi Mozhgan , Azizi Reyhaneh
Published: August 2024

Objective: The objective of the present analysis was to compare the effect of these two treatment regimens (Novomix insulin twice or thrice-daily versus once-daily insulin glargine plus twice or thricedaily insulin aspart) on glycemic control in Iranian patients with T2DM.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted for one year on people with type 2 diabetes referred to Yazd Medical Research Center. Glycemic control (HbA1C, FBG, and 2hPP) from baseline (week 0) to 24 -48 weeks were recorded in the electronic file of patients receiving Novomix insulin twice or thrice daily. These profiles were compared to those of patients receiving once-daily insulin glargine plus twice or thrice-daily insulin aspart (according to each meal). P< 0.05 was considered as a significant level.
Results: Based on the finding, both treatment groups demonstrated significant reductions in FBG, 2hPP, and HbA1c from baseline to the study endpoint (weeks 24 and 48) (P< 0.05 for all comparisons). However, the changes in HbA1c, FBG, and 2hPP levels compared to the baseline level during the study were not significant between the two groups.
Conclusion: The insulin glargine regime is effective in reducing HbA1C-FBS-2HPP compared to aspart and Novomix, but no significant difference was seen between the two mentioned regimes. It is recommended to observe more effectiveness and achieve more efficient and reliable results of the studies.
STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF DISCORD AS A LEARNING TOOL IN EFL CLASSROOM
Authors: Wijaya Nata Kesuma
Published: August 2024

Firstly introduced in 2015, Discord has been widely used as a social media platform amongst worldwide gamers to effectively assist them to communicate with each other. As a learning management system (LMS), it offers more advantageous yet economical full features. Referring to previous studies, this research found the main general lack: most of the studies focused only on elementary schools and universities. As a result, this research will reveal Discord as a learning media focusing on the 11th grade Islamic senior high school students to capture students’ perspectives toward the perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) of Discord. This study uses a mixed research methodology. In addition, a cross-sectional survey design is used to gather data at a point of time. It is applied as a cross-sectional survey design can be used to examine current attitudes, beliefs, opinions, or practices. This study picked a total of 31 (thirty one) samples to be involved. For quantitative, questionnaire guidance is used to measure the perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) of Discord in general. For qualitative, interview guidance is used to assist in interviewing several samples to dig deeper into students’ perspectives toward Discord. From the analysis, Discord is proven containing perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) based on the questionnaire and interview results. However, this research has several lacks regarding the research process and content. Therefore, for further research, this research suggests using statistical data showing actual improvement in English mastery as well as students’ perspectives toward Discord as a learning media.
Kepercayaan Masyarakat dalam Pemilihan Umum Serentak Tahun 2019 Pada Komisi Pemilihan Umum (KPU) Kota Palembang (Studi Kasus Kecamatan Ilir Timur II, Gandus, Jakabaring)
Authors: Andini Yunita
Published: August 2024

This research is related to Simultaneous General Election in 2019 which mainly focused on the research is to know the level of public trust in the General Election Commission (KPU) in carrying out General Elections and the factors that influence the level of trust that objectively referred to General Elections Commission (KPU) of Palembang City. In this research used the Mc. Knight theories of trust regarding the belief formation model was built initially before the parties had time to get to know each other through interactions and transactions. In the Mc. Knight theory, there are two concepts of interpersonal trust or trust intention and favorable trust such as virtue, integrity, competence, predictability and factors of the second trust, namely rational factors and relational factors. This type of research uses qualitative descriptive method with case study method in which data collected through interview and documentation techniques with analyzing from collecting data, reducing data, presenting data to the drawing conclusions. The source of the data in this study is how the community thinks about trust in the Elections Commission (KPU). The results of this study showed that after conducting General Elections there was a problem at the polling station (TPS) at Ilir Timur II District, Gandus, Jakabaring in Palembang City. Not only that, their trust in the Election Commission (KPU) of Palembang City was reduced which influenced by two factors i.e., firstly, Rational factors in which the Election Commission (KPU) has had commissioners in the general election with the appointed position and electoral district, Secondly, Relational factor ensures that commissioner officials can be elected through the experience of strong political institutions. Ultimately, for the next General Elections will be increased by the General Election Commission (KPU) employees in the Palembang City.
Optimizing Mechanical Oil Extraction of Anacardium occidentale L. Nut by Hydraulic Press
Authors: Gabin Kouakou Kouadio , Clement Yue Bi Yao , Didier Adingra Kouassi Martial , Tano Kablan
Published: August 2024

The study aims to optimize the different parameters for enhancing cashew oil recovery, employing a two-level full factorial design methodology. Various combinations of particle size, roasting temperature, roasting time, and pressing time were experimented with, utilizing a hydraulic expeller. Significant effects of particle size, roasting temperature, and pressing time on oil yield were observed. The optimal conditions identified for maximum oil yield were a particle size of 2 mm, roasting temperature of 110°C, roasting time of 6 minutes, and pressing time of 10 minutes, resulting in an oil yield of 31.21%. Physicochemical analysis revealed a peroxide index content of 10.1 ± 0.00 meq O2/kg, saponification value of 187.69 ± 12.95 mg KOH/g of oil, and iodine index of 97.98 ± 5.02 gI2/100 g. Regarding the fatty acid profile, oleic acid predominated at 57.50 ± 1.17%, followed by linoleic acid at 23.75 ± 0.57%. Linolenic acid and palmitoleic acid were found in trace amounts at 0.160 ± 0.07% and 0.47 ± 0.09%, respectively. In conclusion, the chemical analysis suggests that cashew kernel oil is a highly desirable extra virgin edible oil suitable for applications in the food and cosmetic industries.