bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring electrolyte imbalances in cataractogenesis: A comparative analysis of sodium and potassium levels in diabetic and non-diabetic patients
Authors: Beatrice Choppara  , Irigu Vijay Kumar  , Aradhana Badam  , Sara Sultana
Published: January 2024

Background: Cataract, a major cause of treatable blindness accounting for 80% of cases, arises from a complex etiology involving various factors. Diabetes notably expedites cataract development, and its potential interaction with electrolyte imbalances further enhances our understanding.
Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to explore the concentrations of electrolytes, specifically sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺), in both serum and aqueous humor, and their potential implications in the pathogenesis of cataracts among individuals with diabetes.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive observational study encompassed a cohort of 100 cases, equally divided into diabetic and non-diabetic cataract patients. Gender distribution and age groups were established, focusing on individuals aged 40 years and above. Serum sodium (Na⁺) and potassium (K⁺) levels were compared against reference ranges, and statistical analyses included an unpaired Student’s t-test and the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 20 software.
Results: Among diabetic cataract patients, serum sodium levels were notably elevated (149.2147±2.71 meq/L) compared to non-diabetic counterparts (145.04±2.25 meq/L), demonstrating high significance (P<0.001). Similarly, diabetic patients exhibited a marginal increase in serum potassium (4.1919±0.5011) in contrast to non-diabetic patients (4.1264±0.5124), with a non-significant P-value (P<0.5). Aqueous humor analysis revealed a substantial rise in both sodium and potassium levels among diabetic cataract cases, demonstrating high significance (P<0.001).
Conclusion: This study presents compelling evidence of distinct electrolyte profiles, particularly sodium and potassium, between diabetic and non-diabetic cataract patients. Elevated serum and aqueous humor sodium levels in diabetics suggest a potential contributory role in cataractogenesis.
Seroprevalence of COVID antibodies in health-care population of tertiary care government hospital in South India
Authors: Palanikumaran V  , Vasantha Kalyani D  , Suresh Kumar M  , Fathhur Rabbani S  , Natarajan M
Published: January 2024

Background: The pandemic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in a worldwide abrupt and significant rise in admissions for pneumonia with multiorgan diseases.
Aims and Objective: To determine the positive prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in health-care professionals over 6 months. In addition, to make a subgroup analysis and estimate the age, gender, and workforce-based prevalence of SARS-CoV-2.
Materials and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 healthcare professionals during 6 months. After taking proper informed consent, the study was started. We included subjects aged ≥18 years in this study. Not receiving any other vaccine during the study, suspected or confirmed immunosuppressive condition, imaging confirmed COVID-19 or recent blood transfusions were excluded from the study.
Results: Most patients were 26–30 years old. Out of 200 patients, 116 (58%) were males, and 84 (42%) were females. The total positivity of the titers amounts was 57%. In addition, the males had higher mean titers than the females, with 24.186 versus 13.304. Of the 116 males, 68 were positive (58.6%), and of the 84 females, 46 were positive (54.7%). The age-wise positivity of the titers was high among the 26–30 years of age group, of which, in the 53 people, 33 were seropositive, which is 62.2% of this age group and lowest in the 51–55 years age group, of which in the 23 participants 9 were positive (39.31%), and 14 were negative (60.85%).
Conclusion: We concluded that male doctors and adults had a greater seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting that they are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 through patient contact or surgical procedures.
Comparative study between the effect of dexmedetomidine and lidocaine infusion on intraoperative analgesic requirement and hemodynamics during craniotomy
Authors: Ghosal Agnimitra , Debnath Tanay , Chakraborty Soma , Das Debojyoti , Laha Arpita , Mandal Mohanchandra , Acharjee Amita
Published: January 2024

Background: Nowadays, anesthesiologists are evaluating several analgesic adjuncts to minimize opioid use during craniotomy. Some studies have evaluated the analgesic-sparing effect of intravenous infusion of dexmedetomidine and lidocaine on intraoperative hemodynamics and post-operative analgesia. There is a paucity of studies focussing on the intraoperative analgesic requirement.
Aims and Objectives: The present study compared dexmedetomidine and lidocaine infusion primarily for their effects on intraoperative fentanyl requirements during craniotomy.
Materials and Methods: This study was done on 70 patients aged 18–80 years, the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I–II, having Glasgow Coma Scale 15, undergoing craniotomies. Patients were randomly allocated to receive either dexmedetomidine (group A, n=35) at a dose of 0.6 mcg/kg bolus over 10 min followed by 0.6 mcg/kg/h infusion or lidocaine (group B, n=35) at a dose of 1.5 mg/kg bolus over 10 min, followed by 1.5 mg/kg/h infusion till the end of skin suture, respectively. Study drugs were started 10 min before the start of surgery. Intraoperative total fentanyl and propofol consumption, intraoperative hemodynamics, recovery from hypnosis, and time to extubation were recorded.
Results: The use of dexmedetomidine resulted in considerably less total fentanyl requirement (245.1 vs. 300.7 mcg, P<0.0001) and total propofol requirement (172.7 vs. 236.7 mg, P<0.0001) compared with lidocaine. Comparatively better hemodynamics were observed with the use of dexmedetomidine at all the points of observation.
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine as an analgesic adjunct can be a better alternative to lidocaine in terms of reduced fentanyl consumption, reduced propofol use and favorable hemodynamics, and early recovery from anesthesia.
Meckel’s diverticulum with varied clinicopathological presentations: A case series at a rural tertiary care center
Authors: Bagchi Jaya , Dutta Rupsha , Samaddar Dwaipayan , Goswami Bidyut Krishna
Published: January 2024

Meckel’s diverticulum (MD), first documented by Wilhelm Fabricius Hildanus in 1598 as a small bowel diverticulum and later detailed by Johann Friedrich Meckel in 1809, is a remnant of the vitellointestinal duct connecting the fetal gut with the yolk sac. It is a true diverticulum, comprising of all the layers of the bowel wall. The commonly cited “rule of 2s” regarding the diverticulum is: Occurs in 2% of the population, has a 2:1 male-to-female ratio, usually discovered by 2 years of age, located 2 feet from the ileocecal valve, and commonly 2 cm in diameter and 2 inches long. Most Meckel diverticula are benign and are incidentally discovered during autopsy, laparotomy, or barium studies. Vitellointestinal duct lining cell being pluripotent, heterotopic tissues such as gastric, pancreatic followed by others might be found. Common clinical presentation in symptomatic cases is gastrointestinal hemorrhages followed by intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, cystic abdominal mass, patent umbilical fistula, and neoplasm. Clinical signs and symptoms are non-specific simulating other abdominal emergencies and routine radiology is unable to detect the anomaly in rural peripheral centers. Hence, prompt surgical intervention may be needed in emergency cases. Diverticulectomy or ileal segment resection with end-to-end anastomosis is done. Due to the difficulty of diagnosing a pathologic MD pre-operatively, many surgeons recommend prophylactic diverticulectomy in those found incidentally.
Vitamin D levels and tumor necrosis factor-α activity in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An exploratory study in North-East India
Authors: Dubey Rahul , Anju Barhoi Teli  , Nath Uttam Kumar , Devi Bharati , Medhi Anuradha Hazarika , Dharma Rao Vanamali
Published: January 2024

Background: Diabetes poses a global threat, leading to hospitalizations and premature death if not managed properly. It involves tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), an inflammatory cytokine, which binds to TNF-α receptor-1, triggering sphingomyelinase, and ceramide production. Vitamin D acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammatory cytokines and proinflammatory cell growth, and benefiting diabetes mellitus (DM).
Aims and Objectives: The primary objective was to compare serum Vitamin D and TNF-α levels in diabetics and non-diabetics. The secondary objective was to explore Vitamin D and TNF-α correlation in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.
Materials and Methods: A case–control study involved 92 subjects in each group. Data included demographics, clinical assessments, glycemic parameters, Vitamin D, and TNF-α. Statistical analysis used student’s t-test and Pearson correlation (P<0.05).
Results: The cohort comprised 34 females (36.96%) and 58 males (63.04%). Cases had significantly higher glycemic levels: FBG (247.2±53.92 mg/dL vs. 91.45±16.64 mg/dL), postprandial plasma glucose (319.7±72.08 mg/dL vs. 111.3±21.76 mg/dL), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (10.39±2.41% vs. 5.43±0.48%). Mean serum Vitamin D in cases (22.63 ng/mL) was significantly lower than controls (58.15 ng/mL), and mean TNF-α in cases (5.01 pg/mL) was higher than controls (4.63 pg/mL, P<0.0001). HbA1c negatively correlated with serum Vitamin D (r=−0.7461) and positively with TNF-α (r=0.7831). Vitamin D correlated negatively with TNF-α (r=−0.6481).
Conclusion: The study revealed lower serum Vitamin D and higher TNF-α levels in cases, with a significant inverse association. It also found an inverse link between Vitamin D and HbA1c and a strong positive correlation between HbA1c and TNF-α. Recognizing Vitamin D and TNF-α’s diagnostic significance promises innovative strategies for managing type 2 DM.
Prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in residents who died with pressure ulcers in residential aged care facilities
Authors: Sharp Catherine
Published: January 2024

Background: As mobility in the elderly declines, dependence on care increases, and that care involves preventing pressure ulcers (PUs). PUs may become colonized with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, causing cross-infection problems and leading to sepsis and death.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of this paper was to examine the prevalence of methicillin-resistant S. aureus in residents with PUs and consider regulations.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 80 records of residents aged ≥65 years from eight residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Australia was undertaken. Records were reviewed for sex, age at death, source of admission, Stage of PU, and colonization with methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
Results: A third of residents, 34% (95% confidence interval [CI] 25%–44%, 27/80), had PUs in the last week of life. Of residents admitted from hospital 13% (95% CI 9%–32%, 7/40) had PUs. Most (63%, 95% CI 44–78%, 17/27) residents with a PU had been admitted from hospital, and most PUs (78%, 95% CI 59–89%, 21/27) were open wounds, stages 2–4. Half of all residents with a PU (48%, 95% CI 30–67%, 13/27) were colonized with methicillin-resistant S. aureus, and a third of residents with stages 2–4 PUs (31%, 95% CI 13–58%, 4/13) were colonized with methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
Conclusion: Nearly half of all PUs were colonized with methicillin-resistant S. aureus, suggesting PUs may be a reservoir for methicillin-resistant S. aureus. Regulations that could reduce PUs in RACFs “an air mattress appropriate to each care recipient’s condition” are not being utilized. If PUs were prevented, reservoirs for methicillin-resistant S. aureus would be eradicated.
Clinical spectrum and management of pseudoexfoliation syndrome: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bhargavi Parth  , Margi Panchal
Published: January 2024

Background: Pseudoexfoliation is one of the most common causes of secondary open-angle glaucoma worldwide. The current investigation is being carried out to investigate the clinical characteristics associated with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.
Aims and Objectives: The current study was conducted with the goal of documenting the prevalence of the ocular clinical profile of patterns in patients with pseudo-exfoliative material attending a tertiarycare hospital’s general ophthalmology outpatient department.
Materials and Methods: In the current study, 100 individuals were explored who were diagnosed with pseudoexfoliation and attended the outpatient department of ophthalmology, medical college, and hospital. The Snellen chart for visual acuity was used to test visual acuity. Pseudoexfoliation glaucomawas identified based on slit lamp examination of pseudoexfoliative material, intraocular pressure (IOP) >21 mmHg, glaucomatous cupping on fundus examination, pigmentation of trabecular meshwork on gonioscopy, and glaucomatous field abnormalities on perimetry.
Results: The age range of 61–70 years had the most cases of pseudoexfoliation, accounting for 23, followed by 51–60 years with 17 occurrences. The current study comprised 48 patients, 20 of whom had bilateral pseudoexfoliation and 28 of whom had unilateral pseudoexfoliation. Our findings revealed that 17 patients had high IOP. We discovered 15 cases of open-angle glaucoma and 2 cases of narrow-angle glaucoma after analyzing 48 patients. The sample of 15 individuals with open-angle glaucoma included 11 men and 4 women.
Conclusion: Pseudoexfoliation becomes more common as people age, and it is often unilateral at first but progressively progresses to bilateral pseudoexfoliation, necessitating frequent follow-up in unilateral cases. Pseudoexfoliation is associated with an increased risk of glaucoma, and the majority of cases have open angles.
Clinical profile of COVID-19 patients and factors impacting mortality in a rural tertiary care center of Solapur
Authors: Nirmal Taparia
Published: January 2024

Background: A retrospective and cohort study was conducted in our center to study the parameters among surviving and non-surviving patients that have a significant impact on in hospital mortality. Along with this, demographic and clinical profile was also studied.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical profile of COVID-19 patients and factors impacting mortality.
Materials and Methods: The present study is a single-center, retrospective, and cohort study done on COVID-19 positive (by real-time polymerase chain reaction) patients admitted between May 2019 and June 2021 in the intensive care unit (ICU). Of the total 1694 patients, 422 required ICU treatment and the remaining 1272 patients were treated in wards and rooms and discharged home. The analysis was based on demographic, clinical, associated comorbidities, laboratory and radiological data, and treatment modalities used. Outcome data were analyzed by regression analysis and the Kaplan–Meir survival plot was used to calculate mortality trend.
Results: Of the 422 patients, 158 (37.4%) died and 264 (62.6%) survived. Males predominated with 297/422 (70.4%). ICU admissions comprised 115/158 (72.8%) of the total deaths. Fever (88%), dyspnea (78.48), and cough (67.1%) were the most common symptoms in non-survival group. Hypertension (43.7%) and diabetes (37.3%) were the most common comorbidities. High oxygen (>10 L/min) (P<0.0001), invasive ventilation (P<0.0001), noradrenaline infusion P<0.0001), renal replacement therapy (P<0.0001) and tocilizumab requirement (P<0.0001), procalcitonin (P<0.009) and interleukin-6 (P<0.004) acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) with septic shock, and multiorgan failure (P<0.0001), all indicated higher risk of death.
Conclusion: Mortality was 37.4% in our study. Elderly age (>60 years), high serum ferritin (>931.9), and severe disease with a high resolution computed tomography score (>15), ARDS with septic complications requiring invasive ventilation and vasopressor support, are associated with increased mortality in these patients.
Costoclavicular block – single to double injection – time to see the premiere of triple injection
Authors: Priyanka Bansal  , Nidhi Sultania
Published: January 2024

Sir,Securing the phrenic nerve when achieving effective anesthesia block for the upper limb has been a topic intriguing regional anesthesia enthusiasts ever since. Interscalene brachial plexus block is known to involve the phrenic nerve in 100% of the cases and costoclavicular block which has gained momentum since 2015 is declared to involve the phrenic nerve in 0% of the cases. Besides this the compact, reliable topography of the cords in the triangular costoclavicular space along with an expedited sensorimotor block with local anesthesia deposited in the center of the three cords makes costoclavicular block an attractive option for elbow and below elbow surgeries. According to the studies, the success rate of the blockade is 92.5% with single injection in the center of the cords. Another study by Sebastian, where apart from classical single injection, another injection was given after redirecting the needle, between the medial cord and subclavian artery (labeling it a corner pocket technique) for costoclavicular block. They concluded that the block’s onset time and total anesthesia-related time were significantly shortened with the double injection technique compared with single injection. The basis of this was explanation laid by Dr. Monzo and Hadzic where they proposed in a series of 40 patients a linear septum arising from the lateral part of axillary artery separating the lateral code from the posterior and the medial code, thus compartmentalizing the costoclavicular space. They reported a success rate of 97.5% in their study on 40 patients.4 Hence,double injection is used to overcome the septum “issue.”
Pornpatra is defined a high definition ultrasonographic presence of paraneural sheath and facial compartments surrounding the brachial plexus cords at the lateral infraclavicular fossa and the costoclavicular space. We propose that a triple injection with 3rd injection in the vicinity of the lateral cord just before withdrawing the needle apart from the other two injections significantly shortens the onset time of sensory block from 16 min to 9 min. The various sites for injection are shown in the figure below, but the exact point of injection of the second and third is more prominent after giving the first injection. The chances of the median nerve sparing as has been reported in some cases in previous studies are almost nil by this technique - the corner pocket injection that involves the medial root of the median nerve and the lateral cord that is specifically blocked separately covering the lateral root of the median nerve.
CONCLUSIONWe did a case series in 15 cases and although the sample size is small and this is definitely not a randomized control trial, to make such a bold statement, we would like to decipher a positive future of the costoclavicular block with triple injection technique with an RCT already underway.
A cross-sectional study on the etiological spectrum and morbidity profile among geriatric patients: A hospital-based study
Authors: Tiash Samanta  , Satyendra Nath Saha  , Moumita Sen  , Chaudhuri Arunima , Badal Kumar Sahu
Published: January 2024

Background: Elderly people are now the most rapidly growing population group worldwide, and the challenge ahead for the health-care system is to ensure the quality of life and provide adequate health care for a large group the of geriatric population.
Aims and Objectives: The objective of the study was to determine the most common causes of emergency hospital admission of geriatric patients and to evaluate their morbidity profile.
Materials and Methods: This present study was carried out on 208 geriatric patients (age >60 years) in a medical college and teaching hospital, in eastern India between May 2019 and October 2020 after taking institutional ethical clearance and informed consent of the participants.
Results: Nearly 38.9% of the participants belonged to the age group of 60–70 years. 73.7% of the participants presented with respiratory diseases (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and respiratory failure), 21.0% had pulmonary tuberculosis, and 5.3% had cancer lung. Nearly 88.46% had endocrinal morbidity, followed by cardiovascular morbidity (74.03%) and respiratory morbidity (62.50%). 81.25% of the participants had diabetes, and 60.58% suffered from musculoskeletal disorder. 36.53% had osteoarthritis and 22.59% had rheumatoid arthritis.
Conclusion: The present study result showed the most common presentation in hospital admissions during the emergency in the elderly were cardiovascular, respiratory diseases, neurological causes, and gastrointestinal disorders. The majority of cases had three or more complications necessitating admission contributing to a higher disease burden in the elderly.
Investigating the prevalence of primary open-angle glaucoma among patients with systemic hypertension: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gudla Vasantha  , Mounica Kakuturu  , Bandari Teja Sri
Published: January 2024

Background: Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is a significant cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of POAG among hypertensive patients.
Materials and Methods: A comprehensive analysis was conducted on 200 hypertensive patients, categorizing them by gender, age groups, and blood pressure ranges. POAG was diagnosed using standardized criteria, and mean intraocular pressure (IOP) values were compared between POAG patients and normal individuals. The study also assessed the change in IOP across various ranges of systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP).
Results: Among the hypertensive population, 5% of males and 3% of females were diagnosed with POAG, indicating a slightly higher prevalence in males. POAG incidence was notably higher in the 60–69 years of age group, suggesting a potential correlation with older age. Analysis of mean IOP values demonstrated significantly higher readings in both eyes of POAG patients compared to normal individuals, aligning with the hallmark of glaucoma. The distribution of hypertensive patients across different SBP and DBP ranges revealed that higher SBP levels (140–149 mmHg and ≥160 mmHg) were associated with more POAG cases. Similarly, elevated DBP levels (90–99 mmHg) showed the highest number of POAG cases.
Conclusion: Our study suggests a slightly higher prevalence of POAG in male hypertensive patients and highlights older age as a potential risk factor. Elevated IOP, a characteristic feature of glaucoma, was confirmed in POAG patients. In addition, our findings indicate a potential association between higher SBP and DBP levels and an increased likelihood of POAG, emphasizing the importance of blood pressure management in glaucoma care.
Therapeutic siRNAs: small molecules with bigger function
Authors: Ruby Dhar  , Kumar Arun , Subhradip Karmakar
Published: January 2024

In the realm of molecular medicine, therapeutic small-interfering RNA (siRNA) is a promising class of molecules with exciting new opportunities in healthcare. An essential component of RNA interference (RNAi) is siRNA. In clinical setup, siRNA may be engineered to specifically target genes linked to certain diseases, providing a focused and accurate method of modulating gene expression. Many important factors characterize the use of therapeutic siRNA. Target gene expression is selectively silenced by therapeutic siRNA through the use of the RNAi pathway. Guided by corresponding messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences, the double-stranded siRNA molecule is integrated into the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This mechanism causes translational repression or mRNA cleavage, which in turn causes the relevant protein to be downregulated. Therapeutic siRNA is a promising avenue in several areas. siRNA can be used in oncology to target oncogenes or other important regulators, inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. Furthermore, by modifying the expression of genes linked to disease, siRNA may be used to treat viral infections, neurological conditions, and other rare and hereditary diseases. The selectivity of therapeutic siRNA is one of its main advantages. siRNA sequences can be engineered and customized to target specific genes linked to different diseases like cancer or genetic disorders. This focused strategy improves the accuracy of the therapeutic intervention and reduces off-target effects. In a recent article by Nissen et al., siRNA targeting LP(a) in a trial with 48 participants without cardiovascular disease and with lipoprotein(a) concentrations of 75 nmol/L or greater (or ≥30 mg/dL), was used to evaluate its tolerability and efficacy to reduce LP(a). Results showed that Lepodisiran was found to be well tolerated and resulted in dose-dependent, long-lasting reduction in serum lipoprotein(a) concentrations in phase 1 trial with elevated lipoprotein(a) levels. Therapeutic siRNA-based diagnosis is rapidly advancing, and several siRNA-based medications are now entering clinical trials. These trials aim to assess the pharmacokinetics, safety, and effectiveness of siRNA therapeutics in human subjects, offering crucial new information about their potential as a treatment option. Despite the therapeutic potential of siRNA, clinical translation of siRNA faces a challenge in its effective delivery. Naked siRNA molecules are more likely to degrade with a poor half-life and poor cellular uptake. Therefore, to increase the stability and delivery of therapeutic siRNA to target cells, a variety of delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles, viral vectors, and polymer-based carriers, are being investigated.
CALCULATING THE NATURAL FREQUENCY OF PRE-TWISTED BEAM
Authors: M. Shukur Zainab , Neamah Raghad Azeez , Abdulsamad Husam Jawad , Al-Ansari Luay S. , Wittayapiyanon Sutartip
Published: January 2024

Beams in two configurations; uniform and non-uniform, are common structural components utilized for several engineering applications. Thus, the studies dealing with their behavior under dynamic and vibrations have been increased. In this research, the transverse vibration phenomena of pre-twisted beams were experimentally and theoretically studied by investigating the effect of twisting angles on the first three transverse natural frequencies. In the present experimental part, the pre-twisted beams are manufactured using a 3D printer, and the fundamental frequencies of manufactured pre-twisted beams are measured by a suitable rig. In the theoretical work, the finite element method is used to simulate the transverse vibration behavior of the pre-twisted beams. The accuracy of the simulation process is checked by comparison of the first natural frequencies calculated by the finite element method (using ANSYS Workbench Software) with those measured experimentally. The results show that there is an excellent agreement between the experimental results and finite element outputs. For the clamped-free pre-twisted beam, there is no critical twisting angle. The critical twisting angle is equal to the mode number for simply – simply and clamped simple pre-twisted beam. While there is more than one value of critical twisting angle for the clamped-clamped pre-twisted beam.
THE EFFECT OF MOISTURE CONTENT ON ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES OF SELECTED SOFTWOODS; CEDAR, JUNIPER, AND PINE
Authors: Alsaadi Sinan Saeed Jasim , Kocakusak Atalya , Helhel Selcuk
Published: January 2024

Natural woods as a raw material have been taking a considerable interest topic by industries such as the forest industry, furniture manufacturing, and nowadays suitable electronics. One of the most essential steps of manufacturing for those industry purposes is RF heating/drying of raw wood material nowadays. However, knowing the electrical properties, such as the dielectric constant of wood-based material before processing is tremendously important. It is well-known that the moisture content and density levels of material directly affect the dielectric properties. Moisture and density conditions are different in each material because it’s related directly to the absorption and affection of material towards moisture sources. Therefore, in this study of wood material under varying conditions, proper empiric models have been generated to express this relationship. This study is based on three different softwood specimens widely used in the forest industry. The dielectric properties were determined in the frequency range of 2.17 GHz-6.0 GHz as a function of moisture content and density for wood species. Each measurement contains 500 raw data points; a vector network analyzer collected 49,500 S-parameter data. Each wood specimen consists of six samples; the average of data obtained from these samples was considered as a dielectric measure for the examined wood specimen. The proposed empiric models have RMSE better than 0.05 for the relation between loss tangent and density, while the proposed empiric models for dielectric permittivity have better than 0.90 with density relation, which is considered an acceptable ratio for model generation.
EXPERIMENTAL COMPARISON OF FLOW ENERGY LOSS IN TYPE-B AND -C TRAPEZOIDAL PIANO KEY WEIRS (PKWS)
Authors: Rdhaiwi Ali Qasim , Khoshfetrat Ali , Fathi Amirhossein
Published: January 2024

As non-linear weirs with a high flow rate, Piano Key Weirs (PKWs) have attracted the attention of water engineers in recent years. Given the limited information available on the energy losses of these weirs, it is important to investigate the energy losses and discharge capacity of these weirs. In this research, two trapezoidal PKWs, i.e., type-B and -C, with a height of 0.2 m were used. The studied flow rates were 0.025, 0.03, 0.035, and 0.04 m3/s. The results showed that energy loss decreased by increasing the flow velocity and upstream depth. The average energy loss in the type-B trapezoidal PKW was about 10.9% lower than that in the type-C PKW. The type-B weir had a higher discharge coefficient of about 5.6% compared to that of the type-C weir. Finally, an equation was presented to calculate the energy loss of these two weirs with a correlation coefficient of 97.42%.
TRIPLE-BAND CIRCULAR PATCH MICROSTRIP ANTENNA FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION
Authors: Khalid Nghaimesh Abeer , Khalid Jassim Ali
Published: January 2024

In this article, a triple-band patch antenna using a circular patch microstrip antenna is constructed with a low-profile patch antenna using a 1.5 mm thick FR4 substrate (εr= 4.3). As mobile devices like smartphones and laptops become more common, the usage of tiny, triple-band antennas has also become more common. The objective of this research is to design a circular patch antenna with a 3–11 GHz dipole-like radiation pattern, which may be used for industrial, scientific, and medical reasons. For the suggested triple-band antenna design, the slotted radiator with six arches and the reduction of the ground plane are among the components. In addition, the standard 50 Ω RF transmission line stimulates the patch antenna; this transmission line is attached to the microstrip line by an impedance-compliant SMA connection. Data from the experiments are obtained, evaluated, and compared; to the patch's surface current distributions, gain, and radiation patterns. According to the measurements, S11 has an impedance bandwidth in the 5.5 GHz band of less than -10 dB, 6.6 GHz band, and 10.4 GHz band at all frequencies. The superb radiation pattern performance, relatively consistent gain throughout the bands, and practical bandwidths of this antenna make it a good choice for C-band and dual X-band applications.
A REVIEW OF EPOXY-NANOCOMPOSITE PROPERTIES
Authors: Abbas Samer Saad , Raouf Raouf Mahmood , Al-Moameri Harith
Published: January 2024

Epoxy resins have been the subject of many studies as a consequence of their extensive usage in recent years. The brittleness and low resistance to propagation and crack initiation of epoxy resins are well-recognized characteristics. Therefore, in recent years, experts have concentrated on increasing epoxy resin's fracture resistance. Adding inorganic nanoparticles like titanium dioxide (TiO2) TiO2, silica (SiO2), carbon black, alumina (Al2O3), and others to the polymer matrix is one of the most investigated techniques in polymer science. Despite having a modest nanofiller content, the resulting nanocomposites may enhance their thermal, mechanical, rheological, electrical, and optical characteristics. These nanocomposites are an alternative to metal-based materials. They have great promise as multifunctional materials in a range of applications, including optoelectronic devices, semiconductor devices, civil engineering, automotive, and aerospace. To show potential future directions and market prospects for polymer nanocomposites reinforced with TiO2 nanoparticles, current results, and trends have been examined and highlighted. In addition, the current review surveys many studies that highlighted using nanoparticles as reinforcement, their different structure, the interface, and the geometry and structure of the resulting nano-materials reinforced resin.
ASPHALT BINDERS EMPLOY VARIOUS ORGANIC ADDITIVES: PHYSICAL AND RHEOLOGICAL QUALITIE
Authors: Adel Ismael Omar , Idan Salih Siham
Published: January 2024

Several studies aim to reduce surface temperatures and improve the performance of hot mix asphalt. These studies have occurred to reduce the global warming phenomena and economic concerns. We're researching how organic materials affect the viscosity of modified asphalt. Asphaltan A, Asphaltan B, Asphaltan C, and T-grade are organic additives.  temperatures with the asphalt binder were employed in the current study.  These organic additives were used to improve the characteristics of hot-mix asphalt. In addition, it increases the durability, and lifespan of pavement and reduces mixing and compaction temperatures. A penetration grade bitumen of 40/50 was used in this study. Then, pure bitumen was added to the organic additives to modify binders containing varying concentrations of each additive. Physical properties were performance at different levels of additives. In the research, conventional bitumen/asphalt should be adjusted due to climate conditions, strong traffic loads, and growing axial loads. As a result, asphalt mixtures comprehending bitumen with a high penetration index are less prone to low-temperature cracking and irreversible deformation. Traditional asphalt studies found that bitumen samples with the softening point of warm mix asphalt additives were greater rate, and were less susceptible to temperature changes. The introduction of organic compounds increased the penetration and softening point of the asphalt substantially. This indicated that the stiffness and thermal expansion of the binder had gotten better.
INSULATED GATE BIPOLAR TRANSISTOR TEMPERATURE CALCULATION USING SIMSCAPE/SIMULINK ENVIRONMENT WITH VARIOUS SWITCHING FREQUENCY
Authors: Shihab Ahmed Ahmed , Ghanim Omar Riyadh
Published: January 2024

Because of developments in high-power converters, it has become crucial to investigate how effective inverter performance is. consequently, via being aware of the temperature value of the junction for the inverter switch. The rise in the switching frequency of the inverter, as well as the kind of control technique used, all have an impact on the value of junction temperature. The traditional methods for determining the junction temperature are imprecise and challenging to use. Therefore, a novel approach was used in this study to compute the junction temperature in a simple manner utilizing the MATLAB/Simulation SIMSCAPE environment. The junction temperature of the inverter's switches is easily estimated, where the heat conveyed over the layers of the IGBT can be indicated by using the simple thermal model of Foster. Because the semiconductors within the SIMSCAPE environment exhibit boosted design together with a direct thermal port. As a result, the estimation of the junction temperature is more precise and direct. This feature is only openable in the newest categories of the MATLAB program (2019-2023) This paper presents the losses formed in an Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors, and thermal behavior analysis to represent IGBT's layers. The simulation included the influence of various operating switching frequencies on the temperature value of the junction. The results show that the temperature value of the junction increases as the switching frequency value increases and the Space Vector pulse width modulation technique has a value of junction temperature lower than the Sinusoidal pulse width modulation technique at the same switching frequency.
Efikasi Diri Mahasiswa Pada Perkuliahan Matematika Diskrit
Authors: Indah Ratna Puspita , Farida Anisatul
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative research is to describe in detail the profile of students' self-efficacy in dealing with discrete mathematics courses. The subjects of this study were 21 students of class TI21A4 Informatics Engineering Study Program, Duta Bangsa University, Surakarta, who were taking a Discrete Mathematics course. The information gathering tool consisted of a self-efficacy questionnaire and a guide for interview sessions. Participants filled out a questionnaire related to self-efficacy. The output of the self-efficacy questionnaire showed that 5% of students showed a very high level of self-efficacy, 39% had a high level of self-efficacy, 33% had a moderate level of self-efficacy, and 23% experienced a low level of self-efficacy. After that, 6 students were selected to be research subjects, consisting of 2 students each with high, medium, and low self-efficacy levels. Students with high and medium self-efficacy in solving Discrete Mathematics questions do not give up easily, while students with low self-efficacy give up easily when solving these problems. Students with high and moderate self-efficacy have been able to learn independently, while students with low self-efficacy have not been able to learn difficult Discrete Mathematics material independently and need guidance from the lecturer. Even so, students with high, medium, and low self-efficacy were able to complete assignments and submit assignments on time. Students with low self-efficacy, their learning efforts are less than optimal for various reasons so that they have not been able to achieve the targeted learning achievements. While students with high and moderate self-efficacy are already optimal with regard to their learning efforts
 Keywords: self-efficacy; student; discrete mathematics
Evaluation of the effect of Musa paradisiaca L. rhizome on Saccharomyces glucose absorption and DPPH free radical scavenging capacity
Authors: Chathurika P.T.C.  , Vivitharani M.  , Dias N.T.B.  , Siriwardhene M.A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Musa paradisiaca is a common edible plant used in traditional medical systems for its medicinal properties. In this study, in vitro anti-hyperglycaemic potential and in vitro antioxidant activity of M. paradisiaca rhizome were investigated. Methods: Dried rhizome of M. paradisiaca was sequentially extracted to hexane and dichloromethane using cold maceration technique. Stock concentrations of hexane extract (35.35 mg/mL) and dichloromethane extract (22.14 mg/mL) were diluted to prepare different concentrations and were used to evaluate the effects of plant extracts on glucose uptake potential by yeast cells and DPPH free radical scavenging capacity compared to metformin and ascorbic acid standards respectively. Results: The extracts improved the glucose uptake through yeast plasma membrane, since a linear relationship in glucose uptake by yeast cells wasobserved with gradual increase in concentration of the plant extract. In terms of glucose adsorption capacity, dichloromethane extract of plant possessed a significant (p<0.05) activity compared to the hexane extract at higher glucose concentrations, but this activity was significantly less compared to metformin standard (p<0.05). Further, dichloromethane extract demonstrated a higher level of glucose adsorption potential than hexane extract. Same extract had the highest DPPH radical scavenging potential in antioxidant assay. However, this activity was concentration-dependent, and both extracts showed lower radical scavenging potentials compared to the ascorbic acid standard. Conclusion: Dichloromethane extract of M. paradisiaca rhizome is more biologically active compared to its hexane extract in terms of in vitro glucose adsorption potential and antioxidant properties. However, both extracts showed significantly lower activity compared to metformin in glucose uptake assay while  ascorbic acid showed the highest activity in free radical scavenging.

Keywords: DPPH, Glucose adsorption, Musa paradisiaca rhizome, Saccharomyces
Satisfaction and associated factors of E-learning among nursing undergraduates during COVID-19 pandemic in two selected state universities of Western Province, Sri Lanka
Authors: Alahakoon A.N.J.  , Meegoda M.K.D.L.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The global education system was seriously impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the majority of education institutions all over the world had to discontinue their face-to-face teaching and learning methods and switch to online learning. Therefore, university students struggled with the rapid change in the education system, and they needed to adapt to the new educational environment. This study was carried out to assess the satisfaction of E-learning and associated socio -demographic characteristics among nursing undergraduates during COVID-19 pandemic in two selected universities of Western Province, Sri Lanka. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among conveniently selected 395 undergraduate nursing students from the two study settings using a web-based/online survey. A pre-tested self-administered questionnaire prepared as a Google form was sent to all the nursing undergraduates in the two selected state universities in Sri Lanka.Descriptive statistics and Chi-square test was used to analyze the data. Ethical approval was received from the Ethics Review Committee of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Results: The response rate for the survey was 93.6%. The majority of the participants (n=298, 75.4%) were females. Most of the respondents (n=168, 44.8%) agreed with the clarity of the lecture material provided online, and 46.2% were satisfied with the guidance and services of the lecturers. Of the sample, half (50.1%) of the participants had a good level of satisfaction on E-learning. Only the gender was associated with the satisfaction on E-learning (p=0.024). Most of the (n=159) female participants had a good level of satisfaction on E-learning than male participants. Conclusions: More than half of the undergraduate nursing students in the two selected state universities of Western Province were satisfied with the E-learning they had received during the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a significant association between gender and satisfactions on E-learning. Females had a good level of satisfaction on E-learning.

Keywords: E-learning, Satisfaction, COVID-19, Nursing undergraduates
Possible cholestatic hepatitis with clindamycin therapy: A case report
Authors: Wettasinghe I.  , Samarasinghe S.M.  , Puthra S.  , Sugathapala A.G.H.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Clindamycin is a lincosamide antibiotic that is effective against streptococci, staphylococci, and anaerobic bacteria. Though it predominantly undergoes hepatic metabolism, no dose adjustments are recommended for patients with hepatic dysfunction. Hepatotoxicity is a rare side effect and even though transient elevation of liver enzymes has been reported, there are very few cases of acute idiosyncratic liver injury. Case Presentation: A 49-year-old male from Sri Lanka, with no knowncomorbidities, was treated with oral clindamycin for left lower limb cellulitis. He was investigated for a low platelet count and was diagnosed to have chronic liver cell disease (CLCD) on day two of admission following an ultrasound scan of the liver. On day four of treatment, the patient developed deep icterus and asterixis. The serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels rose from normal levels to 681 U/L and 1100 U/L respectively. Total bilirubin had risen to 158.5 micromole/L with a high direct fraction of 116.1 micromole/L and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was 108 U/L. Drug induced liver injury (DILI) was suspected immediately and clindamycin treatment was withheld. The patient’s symptoms improved over the next few days and the AST, ALT levels dropped immediately and returned to normal within three weeks. Serum anti-nuclear antibody and anti-mitochondrial antibody were negative. IgM antibodies for hepatitis A, C, E, and Epstein-Barr virus were negative and the test for hepatitis B surface antigen was negative. The serum ferritin and transferrin saturation were normal and there were no Kayser–Fleischer rings in the eyes. The urine toxicology screen was negative. Conclusion: This case highlights a rare but important complication of clindamycin treatment. Clinicians should be vigilant when starting clindamycin in a patient diagnosedor suspected to have CLCD and such patients should be monitored for DILI. Early recognition of DILI is essential and immediate discontinuation of drug is the most important intervention which alone can lead to resolution of the injury.

Keywords: Clindamycin, Cholestasis, Hepatitis
OPTIMAL CLUSTERING OF WIRELESS MULTIPATHS BY UNIFORM MANIFOLD APPROXIMATION AND PROJECTION-ASSISTED DBSCAN
Authors: Trinidad Emmanuel , Materum Lawrence
Published: January 2024

Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP) is applied to reduce the multipath dataset into 2-dimensions (2D) for visualization and clustering.  Density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) is used as the clustering approach and the performance of different search radius epsilon ?. The proposed approach was used to cluster semi-urban scenarios of the COST2100 channel model (C2CM), which has many multipath components (MPCs).  The approach is validated by comparing the clustering results to the ground truth and computing the Adjusted Rand Index (ARI) and the cluster-wise Jaccard index . The results suggest that lowering the search radius up to 0.3 achieved a median below 0.6 in the multiple-links scenarios due to the overlapping nature of clusters. Nevertheless, the median values above 0.7 and 0.8 for the ARI and Jaccard index , respectively for the single-link scenarios indicate the robsutness of the approach.
ABSTRAK: Anggaran Manifold Seragam dan Unjuran (UMAP) 2-dimensi (2D) digunakan sebagai penggambaran dan pengelasan bagi mengurangkan set data pelbagai laluan. Aplikasi  pengelasan ruangan bersama bunyi berdasarkan ketumpatan  (DBSCAN) ini mengguna pakai  pendekatan pengelasan dan prestasi pelbagai radius carian epsilon ?. Pendekatan yang dicadangkan ini digunakan bagi pengelasan senario separa-bandar model saluran COST2100 (C2CM), di mana komponen ini mempunyai banyak laluan (MPCs). Pendekatan ini disahkan dengan membandingkan dapatan pengelasan kepada kesahihan lapangan, pengiraan Indeks Rawak Terlaras (ARI) dan indeks Jaccard pengelasan ?. Dapatan menunjukkan pengurangan radius carian sehingga 0.3 dicapai pada median di bawah 0.6 dalam senario pelbagai pautan disebabkan oleh sifat pertindihan pengelasan. Walau bagaimanapun, nilai median di atas 0.7 dan 0.8 untuk ARI dan indeks Jaccard ?, masing-masing menunjukkan kaedah ini berkesan bagi senario pautan-tunggal.