bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Outcome between Limberg Flap and Karydakis Flap in Pilonidal Sinus Disease
Authors: Shahid Madeeha , Khalid Muhammad , Qamar Nazia , Zafar Salman , Sundus Sadia , Rehman Abdul
Published: January 2025

There was controversy regarding the treatment options for pilonidal sinus disease (PSD). Even though a number of techniques were used, such as Karydakis flap, Limberg flap, Bascom cleft lip treatment, and marsupialization, the most effective technique was still up for debate with lower rate of wound infection and recurrence of disease. Objective: To compare the outcome between the Karydakis flap (KF) and the Limberg flap (LF) for the treatment of PSD in terms of infection, wound dehiscence, and recurrence. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted after the approval of the Ethical Committee Board of the Surgery Department, PAF Hospital Mushaf, and Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College from May 2021 to February 2022. A total 54 patients with PSD were selected and divided into two groups. The KF and the LF procedure was performed. Outcomes assessed included wound infection, wound dehiscence, and recurrence over a 1-year follow-up. Results: All patients were male in both groups. Wound infection occurred in 6 patients (22.2%) in group KF compared to 1 patient (3.7%) in group LF (p = 0.049). Wound dehiscence was noted in 4 patients (14.8%) in group KF but was absent in group LF (p = 0.039). Recurrence occurred in 3 patients (11.1%) in group KF, while no recurrence was observed in group LF during the follow-up period (p = 0.046). Overall, group LF proved statistically significant superior outcomes compared to group KF. Conclusions: Despite requiring demanding surgical skills, the Limberg Flap proved to be a preferred and reliable technique in the treatment of primary and recurrent sacrococcygeal PSD. It revealed lower rates of wound infection, dehiscence, and recurrence, making it an effective surgical treatment for natal cleft PSD.
Epstein Barr Virus Positivity and Behavioral Patterns in Nasopharyngeal Cancer Patients Presenting in Oncology Ward at JPMC, Karachi
Authors: Nasir Sana , Haider Ghulam , Jabeen Mehwish , Mughis Zubair , Babar Khan Tuba , Zahoor Saima , Sami Ahra , Rani Berkha , Sehar Sana
Published: January 2025

Immunohistochemistry tests for the presence of the Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein (EBV-LMP), which can be used to diagnose non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Tumors expressing high amounts of latent membrane protein 1 (LMP-1) provide more evidence that EBV is an etiologic agent in the development of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Objective: To investigate the association between Epstein-Barr Virus infection and Nasopharyngeal Cancers within a cohort of 131 patients. Methods: A prospective, observational approach was employed, gathering demographic data, addiction profiles, clinical stages, histopathological types, and Epstein-Barr Virus status through patient interviews and medical records review. Polymerase chain reaction assisted in the detection of the Epstein Barr Virus in paraffin-embedded tissue slices that had been treated with formalin. Results: Among the participants, 92 (70.2%) tested positive for Epstein-Barr Virus infection. Notably, 49.6% of Epstein-Barr Virus-positive individuals were active smokers, and 64.9% were treatment-naive. Epstein-Barr Virus positivity was prevalent in stage II (40.5%) and stage III (35.1%) nasopharyngeal cancer patients. Conclusions: It was concluded that understanding the role of the Epstein-Barr Virus and associated risk factors in nasopharyngeal cancer development is crucial for targeted interventions and preventive measures. Further research could enhance our understanding of Epstein-Barr Virus-associated cancers and inform prospective intervention methods.
Association of Peripheral Artery Disease with Obesity
Authors: Zakir Humaira , Aman Habiba , Khokhar Amanullah , Irfan Saboohi , Memon Nazeer Ahmed , Almas Tabassum
Published: January 2025

Obesity has emerged as a significant contributor to the development and progression of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) which has significant impact on local population as the frequency of obesity is high. Objective: To determine the association between obesity and the development of Peripheral Artery Disease in patients attending General Medicine clinics. Methods: This cross-sectional study using non-probability convenient sampling was done to investigate association of obesity on the development of peripheral artery disease for six months. The study population consisted of adult patients (aged 18 and above) attending cardiovascular and metabolic clinics at Al-Tibri Medical Hospital. Inclusion criteria included patients with PAD confirmed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) of less than 0.90 into mild, moderate and severe. Patients with acute infections, malignancies were excluded. Hypothesis of the study stated that whether there was an association between obesity and development of PAD or not. Statistical analysis done using SPSS version 23.0, involved association between BMI and PAD using chi-square tests keeping p<0.05 statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 50.87 ± 8.32 years. Mean ABI was 1.02 ± 0.12. Individuals having normal BMI (18-22.99 kg/m²), 6 had PAD. In the overweight category (23-24.99 kg/m²), 8 had PAD. In the Obese I category (25-26.99 kg/m²), 11 had PAD. In the Obese II category (27-29.99 kg/m²), 20 had PAD. In the Obese III category (>30 kg/m²), 24 had PAD. A significant association between BMI and PAD was observed between both groups (p-0.01). Conclusion: A significant association between obesity and PAD development was observed in this study. Obesity was a significant factor in the development of PAD. The significant association between obesity and PAD observed in this study underscores the need for public health interventions aimed at weight management
Role of CA 19-9/CRP Ratio as A Predictor for Malignancy in Obstructed Jaundice Patient
Authors: Anwar Ayesha , Khanum Rabia , Faridi Maarij , Akram Waseem , Mahmood Misbah
Published: January 2025

The cancer-antigen-19-9 tumor marker, increases during biliary and pancreatic malignancy. Objectives: To determine diagnostic accuracy and role of cancer-antigen-19-9 and C-reactive-protein ratio as a predictor for malignancy in obstructive jaundice patients taking a Computed Tomography scan as the gold standard. Methods: A total of 158 patients were admitted with obstructive jaundice in Al-Tibri Hospital. Cancer-antigen-19-9 was adjusted by dividing it with the C-reactive-protein value. Malignancy was considered based on computed tomography scan findings. Specificity, sensitivity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of cancer antigen-19-9 to C-reactive protein ratio were calculated. Results: There were 57.6% male and 42.4% female patients. The mean cancer antigen-19-9 and C-reactive-protein ratio was 51.39 ± 69.40 U/ml. The significant p-values (<0.001) confirm meaningful differences in CA19-9/CRP ratios between benign and malignant cases, but low sensitivity (63.2%) and negative predictive value (46.8%) limit its clinical utility as a standalone tool. A total of 50% of patients were diagnosed as benign and 50% as malignant by cancer antigen-19-9 and C-reactive-protein ratio. However, 27.8% of patients were diagnosed as benign and 72.2% as malignant by computed tomography scan. Sensitivity, Specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy were 63.2%, 84.1%, 91.1%, 46.8%, and 68.98% respectively. Conclusions: It was concluded that the cancer-antigen-19-9/CRP ratio while exhibiting moderate overall diagnostic accuracy (68.98%), provides significant diagnostic specificity (84.1%) and positive predictive value (91.1%). These characteristics make it a valuable supplemental tool for confirming malignancy in obstructive jaundice patients, particularly when used alongside other diagnostic modalities.
Diagnostic Accuracy of MRI and CT Scan in Non-Invasive Evaluation of Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Hassan Syed Hira , Khan Fida Muhammad , Afridi Salman , Younas Muhammad , Khan Asif , Ibrahim Munazza , Rafiullah . , Sajjad Muhammad
Published: January 2025

Liver cirrhosis is a chronic, non-reversible disease which results from fibrosis of the healthy liver tissue and compromise of its functioning. Adequate diagnostic procedures that do not involve invasive procedures are necessary for early diagnosis of cirrhosis to minimize the risk of complications. Even though liver biopsy is considered the gold standard, this procedure is invasive and thus, non-invasive imaging studies, including Megnatic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography scan must be further emphasized. Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of combination imaging techniques MRI and CT scan in the non-invasive assessment of liver cirrhosis taking histopathology as gold standard. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of Gastroenterology, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, during the period 1st July 2023 till 30th June 2024. Male and female patients aging 18 to 80 years with suspected liver cirrhosis on ultrasound were enrolled. MRI and CT scan of the liver were carried out and the findings were compared with histopathology to draw the diagnostic accuracy. Results: The study comprised of 75 (58.6%) male and 53 (41.4%) female. The mean age was 55.4 ± 7.2 years. Liver morphology in patients with cirrhosis had sensitivity of 96.8% and specificity of 100%, with the PPV of 100% and NPV of 33.3%. For vascular features the sensitivity was 88.9% and a specificity of 30.0% respectively, with the PPV of 93.7% and an NPV of 18.7%. As an imaging finding, ascites had a sensitivity of 46.0% and a specificity of 59.6%, with a PPV of 62.5% and an NPV of 43.0%. Conclusion: Combining non-invasive imaging modalities like MRI and CT scan enhances the diagnostic accuracy in detecting liver cirrhosis and the degree of fibrosis.
Comparing Dyslipidemia Patterns in Newly Diagnosed and Long-Term Type 2 Diabetics in a Tertiary Care Hospital at Mirpur Khas, Sindh
Authors: Ahsan Naveed , Anique Muhammad , Shafi Rubina , Khan Wajahat Ullah , Alam Shaista , Noureen Fakhra
Published: January 2025

Dyslipidemia is a common metabolic condition linked with type 2 diabetes mellitus and is a substantial risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The pathogenicity and pattern of dyslipidemia may vary with the duration of diabetes, requiring investigation of these changes to improve treatment approaches. Objectives: To compare the prevalence and patterns of dyslipidemia in newly diagnosed compared with long-term type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted with 300 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients, divided into two groups: 150 newly diagnosed and 150 long-term diabetics. HbA1c and Lipid profiles (total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides) were assessed. Dyslipidemia was defined per American Diabetes Association guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0, with a p-value of <0.05 considered significant. Results: The results show that the patients with long-term type 2 diabetes mellitus are associated with significantly increased (92%, p<0.05) levels of lipid profile parameters as compared with the newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (78%). Moreover, the mean HbA1c levels in blood are positively associated with the severity of dyslipidemia. Conclusion: It was concluded that dyslipidemia progressively increases with the advancement of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Evaluation of Post Obturation Pain Associated with Tricalcium Silicate and Resin-Bond Root Canal Sealer in Single Visit Root Canal Treatment- Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Ejaz Tahira , Al Absi Mowaffaq Abdullmomen , Memon Kareema , Ghani Shaikh Abdul , Bibi Batool , Salman Saima , Shams Salman
Published: January 2025

Despite advancements in root canal sealers, post-obturation pain remains a concern for both patients and clinicians. Objectives: To compare the post-obturation pain associated with tricalcium silicate and resin-bond root canal sealer. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro, Hyderabad, using non-probability consecutive sampling on 254 patients. Participants, aged 18 to 45, needed root canal therapy on a permanent single-rooted tooth with a single canal with irreversible pulpitis without apical periodontitis. Group A received AH Plus resin-based sealer, while Group B was treated with BioRoot RCS calcium silicate-based sealer. Root canal procedures followed endodontic guidelines, including pulp testing, anesthesia, canal shaping with nickel-titanium rotary files, obturation with gutta-percha and sealers, and composite resin restoration. The visual analogue scale assessed Pain and treatment efficacy at 24 hours and 7 days post-obturation. Results:  Group A had 46 male (36.2%) and 81 female (63.8%) with a mean age of 30.2 years (11.2), while Group B had 59 male (46.5%) and 68 female (53.5%) with a mean age of 34.5 years (12.4). At 24 hours, postoperative pain was significantly lower in Group B (3.13 ± 1.23) than in group A (3.59 ± 1.38, p=0.008), while pain differences were not significant preoperatively (p=0.78) or after seven days (p=0.08). Conclusions: It was concluded that in single-visit root canal treatment, both BioRoot root canal sealers (Septodont) tricalcium silicate-based sealer and AH Plus (Dentsply) resin-based sealer demonstrated similar efficacy in post-obturation pain.
Assessment of Various Tooth Brushing Techniques and its Association with Dental Plaque
Authors: Saba Shah Syeda Lalarukh , Hameed Aamir , Sana Ruqayya , Khalil Zia ur Rehman
Published: January 2025

Dental plaque and poor oral hygiene are well-known risk factors for gingivitis, periodontitis, and other dental diseases. Using a manual toothbrush to remove plaque mechanically is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene every day and avoiding dental problems. Consequently, different toothbrushes are assessed to evaluate their effectiveness in plaque removal. Objective: To find the association between types of tooth brushing techniques and dental plaque in school children. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in schoolchildren aged 15-18 years and convenience sampling was used to get data from the sample size of 211. Utilizing SPSS version 26.0, the data were examined to determine frequencies and percentages. The chi-square test was utilized to investigate potential associations of plaque with brushing techniques. Results: It showed that 58.3% of the children were male, while 41.7% were female. A majority (76.8%) used toothpaste, 59.2% brushed once daily, a smaller group brushed thrice a day (10%) and 45% have never visited a dentist. The Modified Bass technique proved the most effective, with 42.2% showing no plaque. The vertical and combined techniques showed moderate plaque levels, highlighting the significant impact of the brushing technique on plaque accumulation, as shown by the p-value of <0.001. Conclusion: The study revealed that the Modified Bass technique had the highest rate of reducing plaque, while horizontal brushing showed the greatest plaque buildup.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) of Laboratory Safety among Laboratory Workers
Authors: Imdad Sana , Dar Rehma , Akhtar Raana , Shakoor Maham , Ali Moazem , Asif Muhammad , Ashraf Sobia
Published: January 2025

Clinical laboratories have an essential part in the diagnosis of disease. However, they also pose several hazards, including exposure to infectious agents, chemicals and radiation, as well as physical hazards such as ergonomic injuries. Adequate safety measures must be designed and practiced to minimize the risk of hazards and make sure the safety of laboratory workers. Objectives: To assess Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Laboratory Safety among laboratory workers. Methods: It was an observational cross-sectional study conducted over two months in all the affiliated laboratories of Mayo Hospital, Lahore. The questionnaire regarding Knowledge, Attitude and Practice regarding Laboratory Safety was filled by 75 participants. All the collected data were analyzed using SPSS 23. The qualitative variables were mentioned as frequency and percentage and the quantitative variables as mean ± SD. Results: Out of 75 participants, 59% were male and 41% were female. The Knowledge, Attitude and Practice scores were 23.15 ± 2.88, 11.0 ± 1.26 and 11.73 ± 1.97 respectively. The job title was associated with knowledge significantly (p= 0.03) and practice level (p=0.01). The participants’ knowledge was significantly correlated with attitude (r=0.341, p=0.003) and practice (r=0.379, p=0.001). Conclusions: It was concluded that the laboratory workers had overall excellent knowledge, good attitude and practice level. The job title had a significant association with knowledge and practice level. The correlation of knowledge with attitude and practice was significant
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Practicing Dental Surgeons Towards Forensic Dentistry
Authors: Khan Nabeel , Aleem Abdul , Bokhari Samra , Naveed Sanober , Haque Munnawar Ul , Shirazi Nauman
Published: January 2025

Forensic dentistry and dental records are essential to the legal system and healthcare because they support human identification, individualized patient care, and court cases. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of dental surgeons in Karachi towards forensic dentistry. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 227 practicing dental surgeons in Karachi, Pakistan. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit dentists.  Hence by obtaining informed consent participants' privacy was assured. The sample size was calculated using Open-Epi Software with an aim of 18% knowledge among practicing dental surgeons. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis methods by using SPSS version 24.0. Results: The study's findings showed that of the 227 participants, 38.7% were female practicing dental surgeons and 61.3% were male. About 91.1% of active dental surgeons acknowledged the value of keeping dental records, 35% said that gender, and 20% said that race could be determined from dental records. Conclusions: The results of the study concluded that there was a favorable attitude toward forensic dentistry and its inclusion in the curriculum. Hence, further workshops, need to be conducted among practicing dental surgeons.
Micronutrient Profiles in Severe Acute Malnutrition: Analyzing Vitamin B12, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Manganese, Molybdenum, and Cobalt Levels
Authors: Bahalkani Ubedullah , Ali Bharo Mumtaz , Ali Kamran , Bhanbhro Bakhtiar Ahmed , Khuhro Asif Ali , Ali Faiza Kamran
Published: January 2025

Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) is a critical public health issue affecting millions of people globally.  Objective: To evaluate the status of micronutrients and their relationship with malnutrition severity. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months from November 2023 to April 2024 at Pead’s Department Of Khairpur Medical College, KhairpurMirs. The study included 384 participants diagnosed with SAM. Micronutrient levels were assessed using quantitative colorimetry. Statistical analyses were descriptive, independent t-tests, Pearson and Spearman correlation analyses to evaluate micronutrient deficiencies. Results: The mean age of the children was 24.5 months, with a male predominance of 54.7%. Micronutrient levels showed significant variation between children with mild and severe malnutrition: p = 0.03), zinc (62.7 vs. 55.8 µg/dl, p = 0.01), vitamin B12 (312.4 vs. 278.6 pg/ml, p = 0.02), copper (97.3 vs. 89.2 µg/dl, p = 0.03), and selenium (45.7 vs. 40.2 µg/l, p < 0.05). Positive correlations between micronutrient levels and anthropometric variables were found by correlation analysis. Logistic regression indicated that deficiencies in Vitamin B12 (OR: 1.45, p = 0.02), Zinc (OR: 1.62, p = 0.01), and Copper (OR: 1.35, p = 0.03) were significant predictors of severe malnutrition. Conclusions: The findings emphasized that the need for targeted nutritional interventions addressing Vitamin B12, Zinc, and Copper deficiencies to improve health outcomes in malnourished children. Further research was essential to evaluate the impact of supplementation strategies on growth and recovery
Frequency of Different Patterns of Fractures Presented in Accidents and Emergency Department of Mayo Hospital Lahore
Authors: Naseer Muhammad Kashaf , Inam Khair Ul , Naqvi Syed Maisum Raza , Naqshband Mumraiz Salik , Niazi Suhail Niaz Khan , Masood Faisal , Sarfraz Ahmed Humayun
Published: January 2025

Emergency departments encounter various fracture patterns that are influenced by factors such as age, injury mechanism, and underlying health conditions. Objectives: To investigate the frequencies of different fracture types and patterns, and thus assess the work burden observed in the emergency departments of Mayo Hospital, Lahore. Methods: This study was conducted at the Orthopedic Section of the Emergency Department of Mayo Hospital, Lahore between 1st January to 31st December 2022. Data were obtained from registers used to make entries of the patients in the Orthopedic section. All patients were divided into a pediatrics group (up to 12 years of age) and an adult group (above 12 years of age). The adult group was further divided into male and female groups. Results: 29190 (85.03%) were adults and 5136 (14.97%) were pediatric patients. Among the adult patients, 21048 (72.11%) were males and 8142 (27.89%) were females while in the pediatrics age group, 3378 (65.78%) were boys and 1758 (34.22%) were girls. Overall, the lower limb was more commonly fractured than the upper limb (52.88 % versus 32.16%) and the most frequently fractured bone was the tibia (19.99%). The leading cause of injury is Road Traffic Accidents (64.21%) followed by machine injuries (9.28%) and falls (7.85%). Patients aged 21 to 30 years were frequently affected (19.77%). Conclusions: It was concluded that daily, nearly one hundred fractures were reported to the Emergency department of Mayo Hospital Lahore. Resources need to be improved to cope with continuous quality care for these patients.
Prevention and Control of Cervical Cancer by WHO-Endorsed Guidelines for Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (Via) as a Simple Screening Method
Authors: Ratyal Sania , Saeed Shazia , Hameed Nasreen , Akram Sara , Sabir Khan Maryam , Fatima Ayesha
Published: January 2025

Despite the availability of primary prevention through Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. And imposes an enormous global public health burden most notably for those living in low- or middle-income countries. Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of VIA in diagnosing cervical cancer as compared to conventional methods. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed a cohort of women who underwent VIA screening for cervical cancer at Divisional Headquarters Teaching Hospital. The sample included 1,200 women aged 25-65 who had not been screened for cervical cancer in the previous three years. VIA screening followed WHO-recommended procedures, with presumptive diagnoses made through naked eye examination based on WHO guidelines for low-resource settings. Data was entered and analyzed by SPSS 25.0. Results: Among 1,200 women screened for cervical abnormalities using VIA, 280 tested positive (23.3%). The highest VIA-positive rates were in the 45-54 age group (112 positives), followed by the 35-44 group (70 positives). The diagnostic accuracy of VIA for cervical abnormalities shows high sensitivity (89.34%) and specificity (96.23%). VIA's positive predictive value was 85.83%, while the negative predictive value was 97.25%, indicating reliable detection of true positives and negatives. Conclusions: VIA was an accurate, affordable screening tool with a high level of sensitivity and specificity in detecting cervical precancerous lesions, particularly for low-resource settings. These results highlight the effectiveness of VIA screening across age groups, with higher detection rates in women over 35.
Non-Invasive Salivary Diagnostic Approach for Predicting Dental Caries
Authors: Nisa Waqar Un , Khan Muhammad , Haider Ambreen Khurshid , Imtiaz Ayesha , Anis Aisha , Tariq Fizza , Mushtaque Saher
Published: January 2025

Dental caries, often known as tooth decay, is a widespread public health concern that presents many difficulties, especially in developing nations like Pakistan. Objectives: To evaluate a non-invasive salivary diagnostic approach for predicting the risk of dental caries. Methods: In the comparative cross-sectional study, a total of 90 participants were recruited through purposive sampling technique belonging to the age group between 20 and 30 years, which was conducted in one of the private hospitals of Karachi, Pakistan. The participants were placed into two groups for the study according to their oral health state, as determined by the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth index.  Both informed consent and ethical approval were acquired. Samples of saliva were collected and examined utilizing standardized tools. Data were analyzed by statistical software version 23.0 by using the Chi-square test. Results: Participants with active caries (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth >5) and those in optimum dental health (Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth=0) showed significant differences. Lower salivary pH (p=0.003), decreased flow rate (p=0.001), decreased buffering capacity (p=0.002), and increased viscosity in the high-risk group are important findings. These differences imply altered salivary dynamics, which raise the risk of dental cavities. Conclusions: It was concluded that a non-invasive and efficient method for determining the risk of dental cavities is salivary diagnostics, especially for communities with limited access to preventative dental treatment. Salivary evaluations incorporated into standard dental procedures may improve preventative measures.
Pendampingan Pengelolaan Limbah Organik untuk Meningkatkan Produktivitas Pertanian Ramah Lingkungan di Jayan Canden Jetis Bantul Yogyakarta
Authors: Rubini Rubini , Meirani Nurmahya , Nabilatul Adila Luthfi Amalia
Published: January 2025

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of mentoring in organic waste management to improve environmentally friendly agricultural productivity in Jayan Village, Canden Jetis, Bantul, Yogyakarta. The mentoring involved training and workshops that taught composting techniques and other organic waste management practices. The results of the study indicate that after the mentoring, there was a significant change in the method of organic waste management, which had previously been poorly managed. The composting techniques introduced were able to improve soil quality and agricultural yields, while also reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. Additionally, this program successfully increased the community's awareness of the importance of environmentally friendly farming practices. The study concludes that mentoring in organic waste management can enhance agricultural productivity and support environmental sustainability.
Pembimbingan dan Pendampingan Usaha Mikro dalam Meningkatkan Produktivitas
Authors: Danang Dwi Prasetyo  , Sholikhah Asa
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this community service research is to enhance the productivity of micro-businesses in Sumberharjo Village, Sleman, Yogyakarta, through mentoring and assistance in business management, marketing, and financial management. The community service method employed includes training, workshops, and direct mentoring to micro-business owners. This program focuses on improving the participants' ability to manage finances, develop products, and utilize technology for marketing. The results of this community service show significant improvements in micro-business management, as evidenced by the participants’ ability to optimize operations and expand their marketing networks. The impact of the program is also observed in the sustainability of micro-businesses, as the owners are able to maintain business stability and better face market challenges. The implication of this program is that effective mentoring and assistance can strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of micro-businesses at the local level
Europeiska ålens habitatval : utvärdering av ålyngelutsättningar på svenska västkusten
Authors: Myrenås Elin , Heimbrand Yvette , Jacobson Philip
Published: January 2025

Den europeiska ålen (Anguilla anguilla) har tydlig plasticitet gällande habitatval under livsstadiet som gulål. Antingen stannar den i den marina eller bräckta miljön längs med kusten (kustvattenresident), migrerar upp i vattendrag och inlandsjöar (sötvattensresident), eller skiftar mellan dessa alternativ (habitatskiftare). Hur stor andel ål som endast lever vid kusten och hur viktiga dessa habitat är för populationen i sin helhet vet vi inte idag och dessa frågor är därför några av de viktigaste kunskapsluckorna att fylla för att hjälpa ålbeståndet att återhämta sig. Ålen är idag klassad som akut hotad och som en av flera förvaltningsåtgärder transporterar man ål från södra delarna av Europa till svenska vatten. Huruvida denna åtgärd resulterar i en positiv nettoeffekt för arten är i dagsläget oklart. Att jämföra habitatval mellan naturligt rekryterade ålar och ålar som kommer från utsättningar är därför viktigt för att dels öka vår kunskap om ålens komplexa livshistoria men även för att ge värdefull information utifrån ett förvaltningsperspektiv. Otoliter är benstrukturer i benfiskars hörsel- och balansorgan som kontinuerligt lagrar in spårämnen som reflekterar fiskens livsmiljö. Analys av den kemiska sammansättningen i otoliterna ger bland annat svar på om ålarna har vandrat mellan olika habitat. I den här studien analyserades den kemiska sammansättningen i otoliter från 171 ålhonor från ett område på svenska västkusten, varav 100 otoliter var från naturligt hitvandrande rekryter medan resterande 71 var från ål av utsatt härkomst. Resultaten tyder på att majoriteten av ålarna har varit kustvattenresidenta då endast en ål har tydligt vandrat upp i ett sötvatten en kort period för att sedan återgå till kusten (habitatskiftare). Ingen tydlig skillnad mellan utsatta- och naturliga rekryters habitatval kunde konstateras och med stor sannolikhet har ålarna med ett utsatt ursprung blivit utsatta i kustvatten. Tidigare studier har inte heller kunnat konstatera några skillnader i kondition mellan utsatta- och naturliga rekryter från detta område. Sammantaget tyder resultaten på att utsättningar i öppna kusthabitat kan vara ett effektivt förvaltningsalternativ. Huruvida resultaten blivit annorlunda om även ålar fångade i sötvatten hade inkluderats i studien återstår att undersöka. Även andra kunskapsluckor kring förflyttning av ål behöver besvaras för att avgöra om förvaltningsmetoden leder till att fler lekmogna ålar kan återvända till lekområdet i Sargassohavet.
Bacterial Delight: Deciphering how visible light affects bacterial biological control agents in the phyllosphere of greenhouse crops
Authors: Hellström Maria
Published: January 2025

Light can be an enabler of life but also a stressor depending on the organism and the environment. When introducing biological control agents (BCAs) to the phyllosphere of greenhouse crops, several parameters need to be met to reach high efficacy. The newly applied invaders in the harsh phyllosphere environment need to successfully attach, compete and reproduce whilst also acting against a pathogen to be regarded as effective. Light has been found to induce biosurfactant and biofilm formation in non-phototrophic bacterial BCAs. These induced mechanisms could be key in aiding the introduction of non-phototrophic BCAs. In this thesis, the effects of placement in the canopy, leaf type, visible light treatment, exposure dose and sole carbon utilisation were investigated with respect to three nonphototrophic bacterial BCAs (Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Pseudomonas chlororaphis, Streptomyces griseoviridis). Both greenhouse and laboratory experiments were used to decipher how visible light affects these BCAs. Exposure dose, light distribution in combination with a wavelength were found to affect the BCAs when introduced in the phyllosphere of greenhouse crops. Based on viable counts S. griseoviridis was recovered at high rates irrespective of the light treatment, whereas P. chlororaphis and B. amyloliquefaciens preferred the green and white light treatments. It was found that different wavelengths influence all three BCAs’ sole carbon utilisation, where two BCAs, B. amyloliquefaciens and P. chlororaphis, had higher respiration rates under the blue spectrum, and S. griseoviridis preferred the red spectrum. In the case of P. chlororaphis, this was further translated when cascade effects were noted in the citrate cycle as an effect of the increased source utilisation under blue light treatment.
Electric School Bus (ESB) Integration into Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G)
Authors: Saini Hiren
Published: January 2025

The U.S. school transportation system, which relies on over 500,000 diesel-powered buses, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and air pollution. As environmental concerns rise, the push for Electric School Buses (ESBs) has gained momentum, with over $3 billion in federal funding supporting the transition. ESBs offer numerous benefits, including reduced emissions, better air quality, improved public health, and enhanced grid resilience. This paper explores the potential of integrating ESBs with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which enables bidirectional energy flow between electric vehicles (EVs) and the grid. ESBs, with their large battery capacities and predictable schedules, are well-suited to support grid stability by storing surplus renewable energy during periods of high production and releasing it during peak demand.
The research review draws on insights from the Oakland Yard project by Zum Services Inc., the first fully electric V2G school bus yard in the U.S. It highlights how ESBs, apart from reducing GHG emissions and improving public health, support grid resilience. Key findings demonstrate that ESBs can help address the intermittency of renewable energy sources, reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based peaker plants, and provide backup power during emergencies. The paper also discusses the economic benefits of V2G programs, such as energy arbitrage and grid stabilization revenue, which help offset operating costs.
Despite challenges, including the need for advanced infrastructure and regulatory support, this research emphasizes the importance of continued innovation and policy support to fully realize the potential of ESBs and V2G technology in advancing a sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy system.
Jamaica in the 17th Century as Part of Oliver Cromwell’s Western Project
Authors:   St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, Petrov Pavel
Published: January 2025

The history of Jamaica is a topic not quite developed in Bulgaria, almost unknown to the Bulgarian public. This article aims to trace the history of perhaps the most important English colony in the West Indies from its discovery until the English conquest as part of Oliver Cromwell’s Western project and its establishment as English stronghold in the Caribbean during the Protectorate and the reigns of kings Charles II and James II from the House of Stuart. Particular attention is paid to the establishment of institutions and the enforcement of laws and the relations with the metropolis.
Project-Based Training in Civic Education
Authors:   St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, Dermendzhieva Stela , Draganova Tamara ,   St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Published: January 2025

The article presents the project-based training in civic education as a guarantee for the practical applicability of the educational product. The place of the projects in the normative documents is traced, as well as the connections between the expected results, activities and methods. The situational analysis reveals the project-based training in civic education as a systematic teaching method and model for active studying and learning cooperation.
England and the Holy See during the Reigns of King Edward VI (1547–1553) and Queen Mary I (1553–1558)
Authors:   St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, Stoykova Marieta
Published: January 2025

Religious changes started by Henry VIII in 1533 were to have far-reaching consequences in Tudor England. Despite the schism with Rome, the King considered himself a good catholic. Unlike his father, Edward VI was raised and educated by protestant tutors. He was only nine years old when he ascended the throne and under the influence of his uncle Edward Seymour and the archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer, the Boy King made radical changes to the English Church. Protestant scholars from Germany and Switzerland, and even Poland came to Oxford and Cambridge to educate the clergy. A religious revolution was on its way. In 1549, Cranmer presented his Book of Common Prayer to the Parliament. Doctrinal changes were confirmed once again in The Forty-Two Articles of Religion and the second edition of the Book of Common Prayer in 1553. Despite these changes confusion and uncertainty remained among the parish priests and King’s subjects. These events triggered a vast wave of rebellions. Nevertheless, at the end of his reign, the last Tudor King made England a Protestant country. In 1553, Mary I Tudor took the English throne. She was a devoted catholic and her main goal as a ruler was to return England to the Catholic Church. To achieve that, she married a future catholic king – Prince Philip II of Spain. With the support of Spain and her ruling council, she revised all heresy laws passed by her father and her brother. Soon after that, she began burning heretics at the stake, starting with Thomas Cranmer. By the end of her reign, almost 300 citizens (most of whom artisans, farmworkers, and other lay people) were burned, died in prison or fled to Germany and Geneva. These actions led to a decline in public support for the Queen. Her subjects were not pleased with the persecutions and many English noblemen did not want to give the Pope all the wealth and lands that they had acquired in the past years. In her short reign, Mary I did not achieve her goals. After the end of her reign she was in conflict with the Pope, her subjects and her supporters.
DETECÇÃO AUTOMÁTICA DO CORAÇÃO EM TOMOGRAFIA COMPUTADORIZADA UTILIZANDO TÉCNICAS DE APRENDIZAGEM PROFUNDA
Authors: Azevedo Jefferson da Silva Fernandes de , Santos Rodrigo Jeremias dos , Oliveira José Ricardo Nominato de , Tavares Mario Diego Arêas
Published: January 2025

A inteligência artificial é um forte tema de estudo na área da medicina assistida por computação científica. O objetivo dessa  técnica é reproduzir tarefas que são realizáveis apenas por seres humanos. A principal vantagem desses algoritmos é eliminar tediosas horas de trabalho executadas por humanos, além de mitigar o viés que ocorre na marcação entre especialistas em um mesmo banco de dados. Mais especificamente, extrair somente a região que contenha o coração em uma Tomografia Computadorizada facilita diversas técnicas que fazem diagnóstico de doenças cardíacas. Para tal, pode-se utilizar um algoritmo de Redes Neurais Convolucionais dedicado à detecção de objetos, que tem-se manifestado em diversos artigos científicos atuais em imagens bidimensionais, o Faster R-CNN. Este algoritmo teve uma adaptação para 3 dimensões no desafio Multi-Modality Whole Heart Segmentation de 2017. Assim sendo, neste trabalho foram incrementadas melhorias e análises neste algoritmo apresentado. Mais precisamente, nas etapas responsáveis pela detecção da região do espaço 3D na qual se encontra incluído o coração. Após as devidas modificações e análise dos hiperparâmetros, obtivemos uma precisão de 74% na métrica Intersection Over Union no teste deste modelo, assim como há, em média, cortes na região do coração em torno de 6% de seu volume. Portanto, concluímos que o algoritmo implementado e estudado é capaz de detectar a região espacial da imagem tomográfica contendo o coração com precisão aceitável, tendo em vista que o intuito é reduzir o tamanho da imagem, destacando somente o essencial, a fim de facilitar o processamento de técnicas de diagnóstico.
ESTUDO DA INFLUÊNCIA DA TAXA DE RESFRIAMENTO NA MICROESTRUTURA E RESISTÊNCIA A CORROSÃO NAS LIGAS AL-4%CU-7,5%NI E AL-4%CU-13%NI SOLIDIFICADAS UNIDIRECIONALMENTE POR FLUXO DE CALOR TRANSIENTE
Authors: Gama Lorena Greice Oliveira da , Leite Yury Yashyn Fonseca Lopes , Lobo Ronald Barbosa , Neto Lourival Alves de Souza , Silva Mário Vinicius Machado da , Silva Nelma Cristiane Siqueira da , Rocha Otávio Fernandes Lima da , Nascimento Luiz Gabriel da Silva
Published: January 2025

Este trabalho se concentra na análise das ligas de Al-4%Cu-7,5%Ni e Al-4%Cu-13%Ni solidificadas, com o objetivo de analisar os efeitos da concentração percentual de níquel nos parâmetros térmicos, nos espaçamentos dendríticos secundários e na resistência a corrosão intergranular das ligas ensaiadas. Para isso, foi utilizado um dispositivo de solidificação vertical ascendente e registrado os parâmetros térmicos nas posições 3, 9, 24, 50, 70 e 90 mm em relação à base do lingote refrigerada. Após isso foi feita seis corpos de prova para cada lingote de liga nas regiões dos termopares e feito a metalografia para analisar as suas microestruturas e assim obter os valores de espaçamentos dendríticos secundários. Em seguida, cada amostra foi preparada e pesada para ter a mesma massa, e executado o ensaio de corrosão nas amostras seguindo as normas ASTM G110-92 e ASTM G1-03, e depois foram pesadas novamente e levadas para o microscópio óptico para visualizar a suas microestrutura. Os resultados mostram que a liga com 7,5%Ni apresentou uma taxa de resfriamento maior em comparação com a liga de 13%Ni, resultando em espaçamentos dendríticos secundários menores e uma microestrutura mais refinada ao longo do lingote na liga de menor teor de níquel. Além disso, a perda de massa acarretada pela corrosão foi maior nas posição inferiores do lingote e aonde o teor de níquel é menor.
Evaluating Patient Satisfaction with Nursing Care and Nurses' Perception about their Patient Care
Authors: Khan Dr Maryam , Flinsi D. Maryline
Published: January 2025

ntroduction: Patient satisfaction with nursing care is a crucial indicator of healthcare quality. However, there is a paucity of research on patient satisfaction with nursing care and nurses' perception about their patient care in Indian hospitals. Methodology: Descriptive research design was adapted for the study. A total of 104 patients and 50 nurses of apollo hospitals Delhi were recruited for the study using convenient sampling technique. Patient satisfaction with nursing care was assessed using afour-point Likert scale of patient satisfaction questionnaire.Nurses' perception about their patient care was assessed using the questionnaire by Nurse Perception Questionnaire.Results: The analysis reveals that the average score per respondent is approximately 19.68, which falls within the range for a positive perception (13-24). Thus, 100% of respondents are satisfied with the nursing care provided.Chi square results suggested that demographic factors like age, comorbidities, and length of stay influencepatient satisfaction, while gender does not.Majority of responses of nurses are positive (Agree or Strongly Agree), with percentages ranging from 88% to 100%. This indicates that the nurses hold an overwhelmingly positive perception of the care they provide to their patients.Chi square results suggest that satisfaction levels are influenced significantly by age and experience, but not by education or gender.Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of understanding patient satisfaction with nursing care and nurses' perception about their patient care. The findings suggest that hospitals should prioritize patient satisfaction and nursing quality initiatives to improve patient outcomes and nurse job satisfaction. Discussion: This study indicated that the quality of care, professional-technical communication and information skills and competency, environmental conditions, and not necessarily the patients' sociodemographic background have a major impact on patient satisfaction. Therefore, it is important to increase nurses' awareness and sensitivity to patients' feelings, opinions, autonomy, and right to information.
PERFEKSIONISME DAN KUALITAS TIDUR: STUDI KASUS MAKE UP ARTIST (MUA) DI JAKARTA
Authors: Chintia Stevani  , Linda Wati
Published: January 2025

Profesi Make Up Artist membutuhkan ketelitian yang seringkali mendorong sifat perfeksionis. Perfeksionisme dapat berdampak positif dalam meningkatkan keterampilan dan reputasi MUA, namun juga berpotensi menyebabkan stres dan gangguan tidur. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan antara perfeksionisme dan kualitas tidur para Make Up Artist (MUA) di Kota Jakarta. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan membagikan kuesioner kepada partisipan yang memenuhi kriteria. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuantitatif dengan teknik snowball sampling. Sebanyak 237 partisipan Make Up Artist (MUA) bersedia mengisi kuesioner. Skala Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale dari Hewitt dan Flett digunakan untuk mengukur perfeksionisme, sedangkan Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) digunakan untuk mengukur kualitas tidur. Analisis Pearson Correlation menghasilkan r = 0.773 dan p 0.000 < 0.05. Hasil menunjukkan hubungan positif dan signifikan antara perfeksionisme dan kualitas tidur. Dengan kata lain, semakin tinggi perfeksionisme, semakin tinggi kualitas tidur. Hasil penelitian diharapkan dapat memberikan kontribusi dalam bidang psikologi klinis dan memberikan manfaat bagi Make up artist (MUA) dalam mengelola perfeksionisme dan meningkatkan kualitas tidur.
The Role of External Diagnosis in School Improvement in an Ontario School District
Authors: Ross John A. , Sibbald Timothy
Published: January 2025

External diagnosis is recommended when schools lack the capacity to assess their needs. This qualitative study of one Ontario district compared 33 elementary schools that conducted external diagnosis with 47 schools that used internal diagnosis. External diagnosis created pressure for change, helped schools develop a plan that included previously neglected needs, promoted consistency within and between schools, contributed to the improvement culture of the school, and encouraged shared instructional leadership. It also depressed teacher efficacy and commitment to school improvement. Positive effects of external diagnosis were facilitated and negative effects mitigated by principals who adopted shared instructional leadership strategies.