bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupational health and safety aspects in the handling of cryogenic materials in nuclear and radiological facilities
Authors: Saxena Vyom
Published: August 2023

Cryogenic materials, widely used in industries and facilities associated with nuclear technology and science and radiological applications, pose occupational health and safety hazards owing to their unique properties. The major health hazards include cold burns, asphyxiation, hot burns, and major safety hazards are explosion, fire, and equipment failure. Risk assessment consistent with material safety data sheet and hazard analysis is essential to assess the potential dangers while using cryogenic materials. Safe handling of cryogenic materials in nuclear and radiological facilities requires special considerations to ensure the protection of personnel and the environment. Administrative measures such as access control, training, checklists, and engineering controls such as ventilation, gas detection systems, and purging techniques are applied to deal with cryogenic hazards. Many personal proactive equipments are available to protect users from cryogenic hazards. While some protective measures for cryogenic hazards could suffice for low radioactivity laboratories, additional personal protective equipments are required to protect workers from radiation exposure in workplaces with potentially significant radiation hazards. The formulation of preparedness plans for emergencies resulting from cryogenic hazards should essentially take into account the unique constraints and requirements of radiological facilities. Simultaneous occurrence of radiological and cryogenic emergencies presents complex challenges requiring special mitigative measures.
Determination of natural radioactivity and health risks of cement in Abidjan District, Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Brigui Jean-Claude Olkalé , Gogon Bogbé Douo Louis Huberson , Djagouri Koudou , Monnehan Georges Alain , Penabeï Samafou
Published: August 2023

Natural radionuclides from building materials are one of the potential sources of external as well as internal radiation exposure to the human body. Currently, this exposure has been increasing since people spend more than their time indoors. In this study, 16 cement samples collected from Abidjan district were analyzed using a high-resolution high-purity germanium gamma spectrometry. Activity concentrations of primordial radionuclides 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were found with mean specific activities of 9.95 ± 1.94 Bq/kg, 21.81 ± 3.2 Bq/kg, and 196.50 ± 4.5 Bq/kg, respectively. The obtained data were below world average values of 35, 30, and 400 Bq/kg. Radiological parameters such as radium equivalent activity, absorbed dose rate (D), and annual effective dose were calculated and compared to the worldwide average values. Further, statistical analyses were performed and discussed for the resulted data. The estimated radiological indices were below the recommended levels; therefore, the study shows that the measured radioactivity for cement does not pose a significant source of radiation and is safe for use in the construction of dwellings. The data from this study can be used as a reference for future studies on building materials in Côte d’Ivoire and by other researchers around the world.
Balance Ability and Quality of Life in Older Adult with Recovery from Mild COVID-19
Authors: Amput Patchareeya , Tapanya Weerasak , Sangkarit Noppharath , Konsanit Saisunee , Wongphon Sirima
Published: August 2023

Background: In this study, we aimed to assess the ability to balance and quality of life (QoL) among older adults without a history of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and those who had recovered from mild COVID-19. Methods: We recruited 80 older adults and categorized them into the following two groups based on their history of COVID-19: those without COVID-19 (n=40) and those who had recovered from mild COVID-19 (n=40). We assessed the participants’ ability to balance using the multi-directional reach test and timed up and go (TUG) test, and evaluated their QoL using the Short Form‐36. Results: Compared with older adults without a history of COVID-19, those who had recovered from mild COVID-19 demonstrated no differences in the scores of the forward, backward, right, and left directions (p>0.05), but a significantly longer duration for the TUG test (p=0.02) and a reduced QoL. Conclusion: Our study results demonstrated decreased ability to balance and poor QoL among older adults who had recovered from mild COVID-19.
Konsep dan Implementasi Pemberdayaan Ekonomi Ummat Perspektif Dakwah Islamiyah (Studi kasus pasar Muamalah, Dinar dan Dirham, Baitulmal Wattwamwil)
Authors: Lubis Zulkarnain
Published: August 2023

A religious society is a characteristic of the Indonesian nation. This is marked by the majority of the population being Muslim and the extraordinary number of places of worship, both mosques and prayer rooms. Likewise, educational facilities, Islamic educational institutions based on Islamic boarding schools, integrated Islamic schools, and Islamic campuses are mushrooming throughout the country. Islamic mass organizations also contributed to the da'wah of Islam in this country. In terms of the economy, Islamic da'wah provides many guidelines and examples, such as how to build markets, how to transact goods properly, how to use the medium of exchange, and even trade contracts have been fully regulated in sharia rules so that people are not trapped by rib wi jahiliyyah behavior, in meeting their needs. His well-known book, Our Great Ulama, discusses how human nature tries to make ends meet. Human hands are scattered (searching for everything), and everyone is equal. However, something already owned by someone may not be taken by another person, except through barter for goods of the same value. The concept of da'wah in the economic empowerment of the Ummah as a theory, ideas, and ideas are very appropriate and valuable because the method of da'wah with the media of empowering the Ummah is needed a problem indeed for the Ummah in general. The implementation of Ummah Economic Empowerment from an Islamic Da'wah Perspective, with an empirical, cultural, sociological approach, with a historical approach to empowering the Ummah's economy, is indeed the initial improvement made by the Prophet Muhammad Salallahu 'Alaihi Wasallam when he migrated to Medina, organized the economy from a usury-free system, built markets lawful, and teaches transactions according to religious law. The cultural approach based on research findings on people's behavior is indeed colored and attached to local wisdom, the habits of the community in general in certain areas, so that the psychological atmosphere of the community is also greatly influenced by these rights.
Authenticity in Music
Authors: Umar Rauf Rita Mardhatillah binti , Rahman Nurulhamimi Abdul , Hamdan Faezah , Arifin Adee
Published: August 2023

Authenticity in music is a complex that has intrigued musicians, scholars, and audiences for centuries. It refers to the perceived genuineness, sincerity, and originality of the musical expression, reflecting the artist's ability to convey genuine emotions and experiences. While authenticity is a subjective and evolving notion, it plays an essential role in shaping the listener's connection with the music and the artist. In the contemporary music, the pursuit of authenticity has been both celebrated and challenged. On one hand, artists who can genuinely express their thoughts and emotions through their craft often resonate deeply with audiences, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. This authenticity can be achieved through various means, such as personal storytelling, vulnerability, or innovative approaches to musical composition
PREDIKSI KUNJUNGAN WISATAWAN TORAJA UTARA MENGGUNAKAN JARINGAN SARAF TIRUAN BACKPROPAGATION
Authors: Michael Aryo , Garonga Melki
Published: August 2023

Paper ini berisi tentang penerapan algoritma jaringan saraf tiruan backpropagation untuk memprediksi kunjungan wisatawan di Toraja Utara berdasarkan data kunjungan wisatawan sebelumnya. Data yang yang digunakan merupakan data dari kunjungan wisatawan tahun 2014-2018. Arsitektur jaringan syaraf tiruan yang digunakan terdiri atas 3 (tiga) lapisan yaitu 1 lapisan masukan yang terdiri atas 12 neuron, 1 (satu) lapisan tersembunyi, dimana percobaan dilakuklan dengan 6, 12, 18, 24 dan 36 neuron sedangkan pada lapisan keluaran terdapat 1 (satu) neuron yang menjadi target prediksi. Hasil pelatihan JSTbacpropagation menunjukan arsitektur terbaik adalah yaitu 12 neuron pada lapisan masukan, 36 neuron pada lapisan tersembunyi, dan 1 neuron pada lapisan keluaran. Hasil pengujian model JST backpropagation menunjukkan bahwa prediksi cukup baik untuk melakukan prediksi kunjungan wisatawan dengan menghasilkan nilai mean square error (MSE) 0.364826512 atau persentasi akurasi sebesar 63,51%.
EFFECT OF ULTRAVIOLET - C LIGHT IRRADIATION ON THE BIOBURDEN OF HOSPITAL CONTACT SURFACES
Authors:   Department of Biomedical Engineering, Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, Okafor Sixtus A , Ekuma Innocent C ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria, Eze Innocent O ,   Department of Polymer and TexileEngineering Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, Ezeamaku Uchenna L ,   Department of Polymer and TexileEngineering Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, Uwakwe Felicia E ,   Department of Environmental Health Science, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeriia, Okafor Augusta C ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, Emerole Chiagoziem O ,   Department of Public Health, Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria, Obasi Chidera O ,   Department of Public Health, Federal Universityof Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
Published: August 2023

Microbial species replicate and propagate on every surface. Contact surfaces have become inevitable in hospitals as they are for convenience of staff and visitors. These hospital contact surfaces are microbial reservoirs, which play a leading role in the spread of nosocomial infections. Cleaning and disinfection of these surfaces deplete its bioburden, however, paucity of fund occasioned by lean healthcare budget has impacted on the continuous Cleaning and disinfection of these surfaces. We used a sterile swab moistened in normal saline to collect 600 samples in duplicate from various contact surfaces of 20 randomly selected hospitals before and after ultraviolet – c light irradiation. Standard microbiological assay were used to identify and characterize the isolated microbes. The mean of the pre-exposure bioburden in cfu/square swabbed surface was significantly higher than that of the post-exposure bioburden in cfu/square swabbed contact surface with (p ˂ 0.005). This result shows that ultraviolet – c light irradiation if effective in depleting the bioburden of hospital contact surfaces, we therefore, suggest the deployment of ultraviolet – c light irradiation in the integrated and continuous hospital contact surfaces disinfection regime
Development of the Marketing Strategy to Boost Wedang Sirih Rempah Product Market Share
Authors:   Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian Yogyakarta Magelang, Hidayat Hendri , Astuti RR. Siti ,   Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian Yogyakarta Magelang, Puspitojati Endah ,   Politeknik Pembangunan Pertanian Yogyakarta Magelang
Published: August 2023

Wedang Sirih Rempah, is a herbal beverage prepared from herbal spices produced by one herbal beverages company in Central Java Province, Indonesia. The purpose of this study was to identify internal and external elements as well as alternative and priority strategies for marketing the new product Wedang Sirih Rempah. This study used descriptive qualitative and quantitative approaches and was conducted from January to June 2023. CV Mamigus Restu Bagus was used as the company case study. Purposive sampling was employed to identify study locations, and purposive sampling was also utilized to pick respondents. Primary data and secondary data were utilized as supporting data. The data collected through observation and direct interviews with the company’s key informants were then described using a qualitative descriptive method. While the data acquired through surveys with key informants and supporting informants were examined quantitatively using SWOT analysis and QSPM. The findings of the interviews and observations yielded the factors of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The findings of data analysis suggested that the priority strategy in marketing Wedang Sirih Rempah was to perform and increase offline and online promotions through social media and marketplaces, with the maximum TAS score of 6.54. That was, this strategy then be proposed to the corporation for use in the marketing of Wedang Sirih Rempah in order to increase the market share of the company.
Improving Script Writing Skills through the Application of Problem-Based Learning Model
Authors:   Student, Master in Indonesian Language Education, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta-Indonesia., Putra Raiyan Armansa , Suwandi Sarwiji ,   Lecture, Master in Indonesian Language Education, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta-Indonesia., Sumarwati Sumarwati ,   Lecture, Master in Indonesian Language Education, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta-Indonesia.
Published: August 2023

This study aims to improve the script writing skills of students in grade VIII Junior High School using the problem based learning model. This study is a classroom action research. The research was carried out in class VIII in one of the junior high schools in the city of Solo, from January to March 2023. The data sources used are documents and field notes from the researchers' observations. Data analysis techniques with observation, in-depth interviews, tests or assignments and document analysis. Data validity by trianggulation of data sources, trianggulation of methods, and review of informants. The results of the study can be concluded that there was 1) an increase in the completeness score of script writing skills from 63.64% to 100%, 2) there was an increase in the average score of student script writing from 74.32 to 86.64.
Problems of Learning Sports and Health Physical Education in the Special School
Authors:   Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia, Risdiyanto Risdiyanto , Suherman Wawan Sundawan ,   Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, Yogyakarta State University, Yogyakarta Indonesia
Published: August 2023

This study has the main objective of describing a situation concerning the problems of physical education, sports and health in Special Schools which focus on: (1) Analyzing the process of preparing for physical education in SLB (2) Analyzing the process of implementing Physical Education learning activities in SLB and (3) Analyzing the form of physical education learning assessment in SLB. This study uses evaluation research methods. Data were analyzed using the Countenance Stake Model. This model emphasizes two types of operations, namely descriptions and judgments, and distinguishes three phases in the evaluation of Physical Education learning in SLB, namely: (1) preliminary (antecedent) stage, (2) process (transaction) stage, (3) ) stage of results (outcomes). The subjects of this study were school supervisors, school principals, physical education teachers. Data collection techniques in this study using interview techniques. Research data were analyzed using qualitative descriptive analysis techniques. The results of this study indicate: (1) the preliminary stage (antecedent), namely the description of Penjasorkes learning is good, because the learning objectives have been adapted to the conditions of the students, the teacher has qualifications so that they are able to compile semester programs, syllabus and lesson plans, the condition of supporting infrastructure, teacher understanding on learning strategies and having mastery of Penjasorkes learning materials; (2) the process (transaction) stage, namely the description of Physical Education learning is quite good because the implementation of Physical Education learning is in accordance with the curriculum, namely using integrative thematic learning with a scientific approach and carrying out authentic assessments; (3) the outcome stage, namely the measurement of the results of the teacher's assessment which includes aspects of attitude, knowledge.
The Screen Institution and Child’s Models in Nollywood Fictional Reality Films: An Example of Two Rabbits
Authors:   Department of Theatre and Film Studies, NnamdiAzikiwe University, Awka., Aniukwu (PhD) Nkemakonam
Published: August 2023

Child education in Nigeria and most parts of Africa has become a serious subject matter in recent times due to some nonchalant and maladjusted behaviours witnessed in today’s kids and younger adults alike. However, in Nollywood today, the themes of hatred, deceit, gluttony, stealing, and other social vices are prevalent in some children films. This research is centred on finding out the reasons for such increase in dubious behaviours amongst the children and thus adopts content analysis approach of qualitative research method to evaluate a Nollywood fictional-reality film Two Rabbits selected purposively to see the level of imitation of the filmic events on the part of the children, and how such films influence the young audiences into modelling their behaviours and attitudes around the film characters. The study is hinged on the Screen Institution postulation that highlights the powerful nature of screen interface learning which could be positive or negative. The researcher discovered that children could be easily influenced by the child star actors (Chinedu Ikedieze and Osita Iheme) who have starred in most Nollywood films. And as such modelling their lives, attitudes and behaviours around that of the characters’ they see often in films becomes inevitable. The study concludes and recommends that Nollywood children film characters should be equipped with good characters’ traits and activities that project love, handiwork, courage, and bravery instead of the constant projection of the social vices as perceived in Two Rabbits and other Nollywood children films. And for a character who embodies these social vices, adequate punishment should be served so as to deter the young audiences from imitating such a character.
Application of Tamyiz Method in Improving Maharah Kitabah
Authors:   Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Awaliatul Laili Nurul Fithriyah , Suyudi Muhammad ,   Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Rahmatullah Azam Syukur ,   Univerisitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Aziz Akbar Nur ,   Univerisitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Published: August 2023

Application of Tamyiz Method in Improving Maharah Kitabah. This study aims to increase the maharah kitabah of the tenth-grade students of MA Plus Nururrohmah Kebumen by applying the Tamyiz method. This research is a type of Classroom Action Research (CAR) which is carried out in cycles (cycles) in two cycles of action and consists of four stages as follows: 1). Planning 2). Action, 3). Observing, and 4). Reflecting. Data collection techniques were in the form of tests and nontests, while the research instruments included pre-test items, post-test items, observation sheets, and interviews. The data analysis technique is descriptive comparative by comparing the learning outcomes in the pre-cycle, Cycle I, and Cycle II. The results showed that the taharah ketubah could be improved using the Tamyiz method, which can be used as an alternative to learning Maharaj ketubah. This is evidenced by an increase in student learning outcomes reaching the KKM. Student activity in the first Cycle of the first meeting was 75% in the excellent category, and at the second meeting increased to 82% in the outstanding category. The percentage of student activities in the second Cycle of the first meeting was 89 in the outstanding category; in the second meeting, the percentage was 93% in the outstanding category. The average student activity in the second Cycle is 91%, with an outstanding category. Based on these results, the "Tamyiz" method can increase the Maharah Kitabah.
The Effect of Work Motivation and Compensation on Employee Job Satisfaction through OCB (Organizational Citizenship Behavior) at PT Nusantara Traisser Surabaya
Authors:   University of Merdeka Malang, Indonesia, Hardiyansyah Ahmad Habib Romadhon , Triatmanto Boge ,   University of Merdeka Malang, Indonesia, Respati Harianto ,   University of Merdeka Malang, Indonesia
Published: August 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of work motivation and compensation on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), determine the effect of work motivation and compensation on job satisfaction, determine the effect of OCB on job satisfaction, and determine the effect of work motivation and compensation on employee job satisfaction through organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) at PT. Archipelago Traisser. The number of samples in this study were 46 employees, the sampling technique was using a census. Data analysis technique using path analysis. The results of the analysis show that work motivation and compensation have an effect on OCB. Work motivation and compensation affect job satisfaction. OCB has an effect on job satisfaction. OCB mediates the effect of work motivation and compensation on job satisfaction.
Analysis of the Effectiveness of Implementing Fingerprint Absence, Discipline and Motivation on the Performance of Mawing I Paskhas Lanud Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Human Resource Management, Merdeka University Malang, Amrin Amrin , Supriadi Bambang ,   Faculty of Economics and Human Resource Management, Merdeka University Malang, Setiyadi Sina ,   Faculty of Economics and Human Resource Management, Merdeka University Malang, Natsir Mokhamad ,   Faculty of Economics and Human Resource Management, Merdeka University Malang
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of the effectiveness of the application of fingerprint attendance and discipline on the performance of members of Mawing I Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta, either simultaneously or partially. This study also wants to analyze which variables of the effectiveness of the application of fingerprint attendance and discipline have a dominant effect on the performance of the members of Mawing I Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta. This type of research is explanatory research. The study population was all members of the NCO Mawing I Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta, as many as 50 members. Considering that the population is not too large, census research is used, namely all members of the NCO Mawing I Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta will be research respondents. The analysis method uses multiple linear regression and hypothesis testing. The results showed that the effectiveness of the application of fingerprint absence, discipline and motivation to the performance of members of the Mawing I Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta, both simultaneously and partially. Furthermore, this study identified that the effectiveness of the application of fingerprint absence had a dominant effect on the performance of members of Mawing I Bintara Paskhas Halim Perdana Kusuma Jakarta.
Pricing for Water Conservation and Equity Consideration: The Case of Texas
Authors:   Department of Economics, The University of Texas, Dallas, USA, Nguyen Hien , Siqueira Kevin ,   Department of Economics, The University of Texas, Dallas, USA
Published: August 2023

Water utility providers in Texas have been trying to coordinate demand for and supply of water to ensure a stable source of water given the state’s recent rapid population growth and persistent drought-like conditions. Their efforts, however, vary across municipalities throughout Texas. The paper provides a broad analysis of pricing practices in 423 municipalities across Texas from 2014 to 2020 and their impact on residential water consumption. We also assess how other socio-demographic and climatic conditions may influence water use and water rates decisions across municipalities. Besides investigating the potential determinants of water demand, the paper also looks at several supply-side variables and the income gap to address the endogeneity of water block prices. Our results shed light on how current water pricing practices in Texas incorporate aspects of the Integrated Water Management Practices that have been shaping water management for decades.
Setting up an obesity clinic – The SMART approach
Authors: Kapoor Nitin , Arora Saurabh , Kalra Sanjay
Published: August 2023

Management of obesity is often complex and requires a multidisciplinary team approach. There is an emerging need for establishing more dedicated bariatric clinics in the south Asian region. These clinics help to provide an individualized patient centric management through different specialists involved in obesity therapy under one roof. Furthermore, these clinics help to facilitate obesity management like any other chronic disease which requires long term follow-up. This article details the essential components required in setting up an obesity clinic in the south Asian region. The SMART approach (S-Setting; MManagement team; A-Algorithmic approach; R-Research and referral; T-Technology) is an easy to grasp summary of the essential components required for setting a bariatric clinic.
Keywords: Bariatric clinic, Obesity clinic, Multidisciplinary approach, Obesity management, Barocrinology
Factors associated with awareness of literate mothers about newborn screening: a cross-sectional study from a low-middle-income country
Authors: Majid Hafsa , Lena Jafri  , Jameel Farooqui Arsala , Ahmed Sibtain , Khan Zaib Un Nisa , Habib Khan Aysha
Published: August 2023

Objective: To explore the awareness level of literate mothers regarding newborn screening programmes, and to evaluate the associated factors.
Method: The descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Section of Chemical Pathology, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Aga Khan University, Karachi, from January to September 2021, and comprised mothers aged 18 years or more. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire about newborn screening, and the subjects were compared in terms of age, residential background, education and parity. Data was analysed using SPSS 23.
Results: Of the 1016 responses, 896(88.2%) were analysed. The mean age of the sample was 37.7±10.87 years. There were 470(52.4%) mothers aged 31-45 years, 859(95.87%) were from urban areas, 751(84%) had a graduate degree, 652(72.7%) were multiparous and had 824(91.9%) had healthy children. Overall, 386(43%) mothers had awareness of newborn screening programmes. The main factors associated with awareness were age, education, primiparity, having healthy children, and province of residence being Sindh and Punjab (p<0.05), while the urban-rural divided was not a significant factor (p=0.737). Cost of healthcare 417(46.5%) and lack of awareness among physicians 356(39.7%) were identified as the main challenges in establishing newborn screening services in the country.
Conclusion: The awareness among mothers about newborn screening programmes was general low among the subjects studied.
Key Words: Newborn screening, Inborn errors of metabolism, Public health, Knowledge attitude and practice survey, Metabolomics.
Effectiveness of neuro mobilisation on pain, range of motion, muscle endurance and disability in cervical radiculopathy: - a systematic review
Authors: Rafiq Shazia , Zafar Hamayun , Gillani Syed Amir , Razzaq Ayesha
Published: August 2023

Objective: To assess the effects of the neural mobilisation technique on mobility, pain and disability in cervical radiculopathy patients, and to assess the functional activity level
Method: The systematic review was conducted from January 5 to July 5, 2022, and comprised search on Medline, PEDro, Cochrane Library and Embase databases for randomised controlled trials involving patients diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy that were published in the preceding 10 years in the English language. The search terms were divided into four classes by using the guideline for systematic reviews of trials of interventions in the Cochrane neck and back groups and related spinal disorders.  Data was retrieved after the studies were subjected to quality assessment and risk of biasness.
Result: Of the 1563 studies initially found, 8(0.51%) were reviewed. No matter the approach or dosage used, manual therapy was successful in treating cervical radiculopathy symptoms in all investigations.
Conclusion: A multimodal strategy incorporating neural mobilisation appears to be the most successful short-term technique.
Key Words: Cervical radiculopathy, Neural mobilisation, Muscle endurance.
Clinical patterns and outcomes of retinoblastoma in a tertiary care centre of a developing country
Authors: Moin Muhammad , Malik Tayyaba Gul , Siddiq Lubna
Published: August 2023

A retrospective study was conducted for which records of patients with Retinoblastoma (RB), treated at Lahore General Hospital between 2017 and 2021, were retrieved on February 1, 2022. Staging of RB, neuroimaging, RetCam images, and treatment were analysed. The study included 47 patients (22 females and 25 males). Mean age of presentation was 26.5 ±15 months. Records of 84 eyes (37 bilateral and 10 unilateral) were examined. Family history was positive in only (n=3) 6.3% cases. Mean follow-up was 22.94+14.4 months. Leucocoria was the commonest presentation, seen in 72 (85.7%) eyes, proptosis in 8 (9.5%), huge fungating mass in 2 (2.4%), while tumour was diagnosed because of screening in 2 (2.4%) patients. Post-treatment complications included cataract in two patients, Ischaemic chorioretinal toxicity, transient macular oedema, orbital oedema and transient intra cranial oedema in one patient each. Two patients had metastasis and underwent systemic chemotherapy.
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Evaluation of development of clinical reasoning skills in dental students through diagnostic thinking inventory
Authors: Ahmed Sanaa , Shah Hina , Raza Syeda Zarreen
Published: August 2023

Objective: To assess the clinical reasoning skills among dental students, and to compare the diagnostic thinking ability of male and female students.
Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2021 at a public-sector dental school in Karachi, and comprised students of both genders from across all the four years of dental school. Data was collected using the diagnostic thinking inventory which also assessed flexibility in thinking and knowledge structure in memory. Data was analysed using SPSS 18.
Results: Of the 111 forms distributed, 108(98.2%) were received duly filled; 32(29.35%) from male students and 76(69.72) from female students. Participants from the first year were 24(22%), second year 23(21%), third year 33(30.27%) and the fourth year 29(26.6%). The reliability of diagnostic thinking inventory was 0.906, for knowledge structure in memory 0.661, and flexibility in thinking 0.573. The correlation was significant for students in their 2nd, 3rd and 4th years of studies (p=0.01) The overall mean score was <150 which was poor. Both the knowledge structure in memory, and flexibility in thinking scores were higher for females compared to males (Significant at the level of 0.01).
Conclusion: The clinical reasoning skills of students were low, and the diagnostic thinking ability of female students was better than that of their male counterparts.
Key Words: Students, Dental Schools, Dental, Problem-based Learning, Clinical Competence, Clinical reasoning.
Screen time and its relationship with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among children attending a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Ahmer Zaeema , Sultan Dar Marrium , Arif Muriam , Shah Mahjabeen , Ain Noor ul , Habiba Umme , Shahid Fatima
Published: August 2023

Objective: To estimate the frequency of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and its relationship with screen time and sociodemographic characteristics among children.
Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted at the National Institute of Child Health, Karachi, in June-July 2022, and comprised children of either gender aged 5-10 years visiting the paediatric outpatient department. Screen time was measured using a pretested questionnaire, while attention deficit hyperactivity disorder rating scale IV. The relationship of sociodemographic characteristics and screen time with the disorder was explored through multiple linear regression analysis. Data was analysed using SPSS 20.
Results: Of the 247 participants, 126(51%) were boys and 121(49%) were girls. The overall mean age was 7.84 ±1.87 years. The were 149(60.3%) children at the primary level of education, while 76(30.8%) had no formal education. There were 139(56.3%) children having screen time >2 hours/day with a mean of 3.36±3.14 hours. There were 15(6.1%) children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder score >26 with a mean of 11.58±9.27. Boys were more frequently affected by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder compared to girls (p=0.026), and there was a significant positive correlation between screen time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The majority of children were found to be spending more than the recommended time on screen. Male gender and screen time were associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Key Words: Screen time, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Child.
The limited use of Dexmedetomidine for subarachnoid blocks in Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Mubariz  , Hira Hameed
Published: August 2023

Respected Madam,
Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenoceptor agonist. It acts by binding to the presynaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptors and inhibits the release of norepinephrine. Thereafter, it causes a decrease in the sympathetic tone and terminates the propagation of pain signals. As a result, the haemodynamic and the endocrine stress responses of the body to surgery and anesthesia are attenuated, the blood pressure and heart rate are decreased, and the requirement for other anaesthetic agents is reduced. These effects have meant that dexmedetomidine has been widely used prior to endotracheal intubation to optimize the patients and prevent the likelihood of hemodynamic adverse effects (1).
In addition to its use in general anesthesia, peri-operative physicians worldwide are now becoming increasingly aware of the dexmedetomidine’s potential usefor subarachnoid blocks. A few studies have documented the efficacy of intravenous (IV) dexmedetomidine in prolonging the duration of sensory and motor blockade induced by agents such as bupivacaine, prilocaine, and ropivacaine up to 4 hours (2), (3).  Recent studies have found that intrathecal administration of dexmedetomidine in combination with the local anesthetic agent yields similar benefits (4). This has been attributed to the activation of presynaptic alpha2-A receptors at locus ceruleus and the termination of pain signal propagation via the medullospinal noradrenergic pathway (4). Therefore, it is no surprise that the use of dexmedetomidine in conjunction with local anesthetics for the subarachnoid block is common practice in peri-operative physicians throughout the globe.
While Pakistani peri-operative physicians are aware of the benefits of dexmedetomidine prior to endotracheal intubation (5), the same cannot be said for subarachnoid blocks induced in Pakistan. Peri-operative physicians in Pakistan are either yet to realize the potential benefits the use of dexmedetomidine can provide for subarachnoid blocks or still adhere to conventional spinal anesthesia practices. Since the effects of a conventional subarachnoid block last from 2 to 3 hours, in any case of a surgical adverse event that prolongs the surgery, severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and derangement of the hemodynamic status have been noted in patients. Often times, this results in a shift towards general anesthesia midway through the procedure. Ultimately, the postoperative stay is prolonged which directly impacts the clinical outcome and the quality of life for these patients.
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Clinical accuracy of dermatologists and nondermatologists in the diagnosis of dermatological diseases
Authors: Aamir Habib
Published: August 2023

Objective: To compare the clinical diagnostic accuracy of dermatologists and non-dermatologists in the diagnosis of dermatological diseases.
Method: The descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Dermatopathology department of a tertiary healthcare hospital in the Punjab province of Pakistan from January 1 to December 31, 2019, and comprised biopsy specimens of patients with diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. The clinical diagnoses of general surgeons, otolaryngologists, dental/maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons and gynaecologists were noted and compared with those of dermatologists in the light of histopathological findings. Data was analysed using SPSS 16.
Results: Of the 386 specimens submitted, 113(29.3%) were sent by dermatologists and 273(70.7%) by non-dermatologists. Clinical diagnostic accuracy of dermatologists 92(81.4%) compared to non-dermatologists 137(50.2%) (p<0.005). The dermatologists diagnosed significantly more cases belonging to inflammatory and miscellaneous cutaneous diseases category accurately than non-dermatologists (p<0.005). Similarly, the dermatologists diagnosed significantly more cases of neoplastic disorders accurately than the non-dermatologists (p= 0.018). There was no significant difference in the clinical diagnostic accuracy of dermatologists and non-dermatologists in cases of cystic lesions (p>0.05). In the neoplastic category, no significant difference was found in the clinical accuracy of dermatologists and plastic surgeons (p=0.347).
Conclusions: The specialised skills of dermatologists could not be matched by any other group of physicians.
Key Words: Diagnostic accuracy, Dermatologist, Surgical excision, Dermatological diseases, Histopathological diagnosis.
Influenza vaccination decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients
Authors: Khan Noor Ayman , Afroz Amimah , Nusrat Butool
Published: August 2023

Madam,
Influenza is a viral respiratory tract infection that causes symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough and runny nose with a mostly self-limiting prognosis. However, it can cause an increased risk of hospitalization and mortality in high-risk groups such as those suffering from end-stage renal disease (ESRD) [1]. CVD is present in >50% of cases of ESRD and is associated with a 20 times greater relative risk of death than in the general population, particularly with patients infected with influenza [2] [3]. This is due to the dysfunctional immunity in those affected by chronic kidney disease.
The pathophysiology behind the influenza infection leading to CVD in ESRD patients is due to the rise of acute phase reactants in response to viral infection markers triggering a systemic inflammatory reaction. This reaction comprises damage to the endothelial cell lining of vessels, impaired vasodilation, dysfunctional platelet activation, and elevated pro-coagulation. In addition, the increased metabolic demand and altered coronary vascular tone can bring about disruption and instability of atherosclerotic plaques in coronary arteries, thus inducing an acute coronary syndrome. [1]
Using influenza vaccine can significantly lower the risk of CVD in ESRD patients.  Currently, available influenza vaccines include inactivated, recombinant, and live-attenuated (LAIVs).[4] Inactivated vaccines contain either surface glycoproteins such as hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) or whole viral protein without the lipid envelope or chemically inactivated virus, whereas recombinant vaccines are composed of genetically synthesized HA subunits and LAIVs have the whole virus with weakened pathogenicity. These vaccines are produced as either trivalent (with both, influenza A subtypes H1N1 andH3N2 and dominant influenza B of either Yamagata or Victoria lineage) or quadrivalent (having both influenza B lineages) vaccines.[4]
According to a population-based case-cohort study, annual influenza vaccinations have been seen to greatly reduce the hospitalisation rates for CVD in elderly patients with chronic kidney disease regardless of gender and influenza seasonality [5]. Moreover, it reduces the risk of CVD in patients with a hazard ratio of 0.74 for hospitalisation due to CVD among the vaccinated group compared to the non-vaccinated group, indicating a 26% lower risk and 35% reduction in overall mortality. [3]
Therefore, the protective mechanism of influenza vaccination may be beneficial in reducing the risk of hospitalisations and morbidity in ESRD patients by reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular-associated complications. Thus, it should be incorporated as an integral part of the management of ESRD.
ChatGPT: A New Era in Research Writing Assistance
Authors: Muhammad Osama  , Afridi Sabah
Published: August 2023

The integration of artificial intelligence in everyday tasks is becoming prevalent, and its application has extended to academic and scientific writing. The utilization of large language models, such as ChatGPT, has gained significant traction among researchers and scientific writers in recent times. According to a recent article published in Nature, ChatGPT is capable of generating text that sounds both realistic and intelligent in response to user prompts (1). A recent study published in December 2022 evaluated the ability of ChatGPT, to execute complex cognitive tasks and generate text that is indistinguishable from text produced by humans. (2), suggesting that it can be difficult for researchers to distinguish between abstracts created by AI and original ones (1). Another study published in December 2022 showed that ChatGPT could  generate precise and believable scientific abstracts (3).Likewise  An additional study published in 2022 postulated that based on the analysis of ChatGPT's applications, capabilities, and limitations, it can significantly enhance academic research across a broad range of fields. (4). A recently published literature review using ChatGPT has been cited as an example of ChatGPT application in the field of scientific writing and research (5). Moreover, ChatGPT has also been used to write and publish editorials and research papers (1, 6, 7). Despite the benefits, some researchers are still evaluating the implications and effects of using these models in the long term. (1).
This letter aims to present the advantages of utilizing ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, in the field of scientific writing. ChatGPT can help researchers in a various ways, including generating text, summarizing text, completing the text, editing text, and creating references, bibliography and citations. The most significant application of ChatGPT in scientific writing is text generation, as the model can be used to generate outlines, abstracts, and introductions to research papers. However, it is imperative to point out that ChatGPT cannot provide text with proper citations to research papers and sources. ChatGPT can also support researchers in the text summarization process, enabling them to extract meaningful information from vast amounts of text data like research papers or articles. Additionally, some researchers use ChatGPT to analyze large volumes of text data to gain deeper insights and knowledge, which is particularly useful in qualitative research and in writing literature reviews.
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Aproximación Teórica sobre Derechos Humanos: Fundamentos para su abordaje
Authors: Vilca Vilca Lenin Elvis , Vilca Vilca Miguel Ángel
Published: August 2023

Esta publicación pretende ofrecer bases significativas que permitan emprender la travesía a la consolidación del pleno disfrute de los derechos humanos; sin duda, un tema central para la justicia social, la democracia y la cohesión internacional.
Buscamos iniciar una exploración de los conceptos, de cara al futuro, desde la perspectiva de sus inicios y la transformación de los derechos humanos a lo largo de la historia. Aunque parece ser una noción moderna, tiene profundas raíces en las ideas filosóficas, religiosas y culturales que se remontan a miles de años.
Pero ¿cómo ha evolucionado esta idea a lo largo de los siglos? ¿Cómo se han reflejado estas evoluciones en las declaraciones y leyes de derechos humanos que conocemos hoy en día? ¿Y qué desafíos se presentan a medida que avanzamos hacia un futuro incierto?
Se abordarán los desafíos contemporáneos y futuros para los derechos humanos. A medida que la sociedad avanza, emergen nuevas amenazas y oportunidades. La globalización, el cambio climático, avances tecnológicos, el desplazamiento masivo y desigualdad creciente son sólo algunos de los desafíos que los defensores de los derechos humanos deben enfrentar hoy, en todos los escenarios de la sociedad.
Esta iniciativa no pretende proporcionar respuestas definitivas, sino abrir un diálogo y fomentar una reflexión crítica sobre el pasado, presente y futuro de los derechos humanos.
Nuestro objetivo es proporcionar a los lectores herramientas significativas, como base para comprender la evolución y los desafíos de los derechos humanos, y puedan generarse condiciones para la participación, de manera efectiva, en debates y disertaciones que fomenten la promoción de los derechos humanos en el siglo XXI.
Los autores
PENDEKATAN DIFFERENTIATED INSTRUCTION DALAM MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR CAPTION SISWA KELAS XII MIPA-1 DI SMAN 1 PEUKAN BARO
Authors: Lindawati Lindawati
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian tindakan kelas dengan menerapkan pendekatan Differentiated Instruction sebagai salah satu alternative pendekatan dalam proses pembelajaran yang diharapkan dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar Caption siswa kelas XII MIPA1 SMA Negeri 1 Peukan Baro yang berjumlah 24 siswa. Instrument yang digunakan terdiri dari hasil tes akhir lembar observasi, dan angket. Berdasarkan analisis data dari hasil tes akhir dan temuan-temuan selama penelitian tindakan ini, dapat disimpulkan bahwa pada siklus 1, terjadi peningkatan persentase ketuntasan belajar Caption yaitu 54,13%, meningkat 16,63 % dari kondisi awal. Dan setelah siklus II dilakukan, terlihat peningkatan persentase ketuntasan menjadi 79,17%, yaitu meningkat 25,04 % dari Siklus 1. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa pendekatan Differentiated Instruction efektif dalam meningkatkan hasil belajar Caption siswa kelas XII MIPA 1 SMA Negeri 1 Peukan BaroKata Kunci. Differentiated Instruction, hasil belajar, Caption