bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining the Performance of Nurses in Order to Prevent Nosocomial Infections in Urmia City Hospitals: Application of the Health Belief Model
Authors: Rezapour Baratali , Sharafkhani Naser
Published: February 2024

Background

Nosocomial infections (NIs) are one of the medical, social, and economic problems in developing countries and can be prevented. Studying the etiology of NI is one of the most essential activities for designing prevention programs. The purpose of this study was to explain the constructs of the health belief model (HBM) regarding nurses' compliance with standard precautions for the prevention of NI in Urmia hospitals.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 224 nurses of Urmia hospitals who were selected by employing the multi-stage method. The data collection tool was a questionnaire containing demographic characteristics, an HBM questionnaire associated with the prevention of NI, and questions related to the observance of nurses in the field of standard precautions to prevent NI. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods in SPSS software version 22.

Results

The results of this study showed the average performance score of nurses in relation to adopting preventive behaviors against NI (71.97 ± 11.08) as acceptable. Also, the results of the study showed that among the constructs of the HBM, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, cue to action, and self-efficacy are the most important predictors of adopting preventive behaviors against NI with a variance of 52% among the nurses.

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, the constructs of self-efficacy, perceived barriers, cue to action, perceived benefits, and perceived intensity are, respectively, the strongest predictors of compliance with standard precautions to prevent hospital infections. Therefore, the results of this study can be useful for health service providers in planning and designing interventions, and determining appropriate strategies for the prevention and control of NI.
Social Risk Factors Contributing to Anxiety, Depression and Stress among Indian Healthcare Students during Lockdown
Authors: Manjareeka Magna , Kanungo Pratyush , Yadav Srijan , Das Ram Chandra
Published: February 2024

Background

The increase in mental health disorders among the general population, healthcare workers and students during the pandemic was evident. There are scanty reports regarding the mental health status of students in the health care services from India during the pandemic lockdown. This study aims to find the risk factors of anxiety and stress among these students and to evaluate the adapting mechanisms to alleviate the same.

Methods

A web-based cross-sectional survey was perfomed in students undergoing undergraduate courses in various healthcare services after institutional ethical clearance. The study tool was a pre-validated self-administered questionnaire in the google form. The link was shared in various WhatsApp groups to be shared among students with a brief description of the study after proper content validation.

Results

Of the 527 respondents, 291 (56%) were females, 385 (74%) were in MBBS Courses, and 178 (34%) were from government colleges. Prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress were 372 (70.6%), 360 (68.3%) and 262 (49.7%), respectively. The mean scores of anxiety, depression and stress were 14.33 ± 10.4, 17.24 ± 12.21 and 16.60 ±10.4, respectively. The presence of anxiety, depression and stress was not associated with age, course and year of study, type of Institutions in which they study, socioeconomic status and performance in the recent written examination. There was no association of gender with anxiety and depression, but females had more stress than males (p = .025). Extremely severe levels of anxiety, depression and stress were seen in 158 (30%), 124 (23.5%) and 43 (8%), respectively. A total of 296 (57%) of the students started a new hobby during the lockdown. Students who felt relaxed after talking to their teachers or mentors, students who shared talks with family members and friends, students whose parental fights were less, and students who opened up with parents were less likely to have anxiety and stress.

Conclusion

The prevalence of anxiety, depression and stress in healthcare students from our country was very high. Most of the students needed motivation during the pandemic lockdown. Proper psychological support to students of health care services is a necessity in such a crisis situation.
Fatal Crash Occurrence Prediction and Pattern Evaluation by Applying Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Masud Saumik Sakib Bin , Hossain Abid , Akter Nazifa , Mohammed Hemin
Published: February 2024

Background

Highway safety remains a significant issue, with road crashes being a leading cause of fatalities and injuries. While several studies have been conducted on crash severity, few have analyzed and predicted specific types of crashes, such as fatal crashes. Identifying the key factors associated with fatal crashes and predicting their occurrence can help develop effective preventative measures.

Objective

This study intended to develop cluster analysis and ML-based models using crash data to extract the prominent factors behind fatal crash occurrences and analyze the inherent pattern of variables contributing to fatal crashes.

Methods

Several branches and categories of supervised ML models have been implemented for fatality prediction and their results have been compared. SHAP analysis was conducted using the ML model to explore the contributing factors of fatal crashes. Additionally, the underlying hidden patterns of fatal crashes have been evaluated using K-means clustering, and specific fatal crash scenarios have been extracted.

Results

The deep neural networks model achieved 85% accuracy in predicting fatal crashes in Kansas. Factors, such as speed limits, nighttime, darker road conditions, two-lane highways, highway interchange areas, motorcycle and tractor-trailer involvement, and head-on collisions were found to be influential. Moreover, the clusters were able to discern certain scenarios of fatal crashes.

Conclusion

The study can provide a clear image of the important factors related to fatal crashes, which can be utilized to create new safety protocols and countermeasures to reduce fatal crashes. The results from cluster analysis can facilitate transportation professionals with representative scenarios, which will benefit in identifying potential fatal crash conditions.
Is Stress Urinary Incontinence Symptom Determined by the Severity of
Anterior Compartment Prolapse?
Authors: Moegni Fernandi , Anggayana Adri Dwi , Adjie Seno , Hakim Surahman , Priyatini Tyas
Published: February 2024

Background:

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) would develop
simultaneously because of the same etiopathogenesis of pelvic floor weakness. Some studies
have said the association between SUI symptoms may be determined by the degree of anterior compartment
prolapse. Then some incidences of occult SUI could also mask the symptom of SUI in the
severe stage of POP.

Methods:

A total of 32 women diagnosed with POP and SUI from the urogynecology clinic were included
in a cross-sectional study between 2019 and 2020. The degree of anterior compartment prolapse
was measured using the POP-Q system (Ba point), while SUI's severity was measured using a 1-
hour pad test in grams. The correlation between the severity of SUI (with the occurrence of occult
SUI) and the anterior compartment prolapse was analyzed.

Results:

No correlation was observed between the degree of anterior compartment prolapse and SUI
degree (r = 0.240, p = 0.182). Occult SUI was found in only 5/24 (20.8%) grade III and IV anterior
compartment prolapse cases.

Conclusion:

SUI symptom was not determined by the severity of anterior compartment prolapse. The
prevalence of occult SUI in severe POP was also low.
Lactic Acid Bacteria as Starter Cultures in Food: Genome Characterization and Comparative Genomics
Authors: Minhajul Abedin Md , Padhi Srichandan , Chourasia Rounak , Chiring Phukon Loreni , Sarkar Puja , Singh Sudhir P. , Kumar Rai Amit
Published: February 2024

Fermented food products are consumed by about 30% of the world's
population due to their high nutritional value and health properties. The use of LAB in
the fermentation process has resulted in a variety of fermented food products derived
from both plant and animal sources. LAB have been used as starter cultures for food
fermentation both traditionally and industrially, having certain specific characteristics
such as rapid growth, product yield, higher biomass and also unique organoleptic
properties, and are employed in food fermentation. The advancement of highthroughput genome sequencing methods has resulted in a tremendous improvement in
our understanding of LAB physiology and has become more essential in the field of
food microbiology. The complete genome sequence of Lactococcus lactis in 2001
resulted in a better understanding of metabolic properties and industrial applications of
LAB. Genes associated with β-galactosidase, antimicrobial agents, bile salt hydrolase,
exopolysaccharide, and GABA producing LAB have received a lot of attention in
recent years. Genome editing techniques are required for the development of strains for
novel applications and products. They can also play an important part as a research
method for acquiring mechanistic insights and identifying new properties. The genome
editing of lactic acid bacterial strains has a lot of potential applications for developing
functional foods with a favourable influence on the food industries.
Sosyodemografik Değişkenler ile Aile Planlaması Bilgi, Yöntem Kullanım Durumları: Aile Planlaması Araştırması
Authors: ÇELİK Nazlı , BABAOĞLU Ülken Tunga
Published: February 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışmada, Kırşehir il merkezindeki aile sağlığı merkezlerine (ASM) kayıtlı doğurganlık çağındaki kadınların kontrasepsiyon bilgi düzeyi, yöntem kullanım durumları ile sosyodemografik özellikleri arasındaki ilişkinin değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.
Yöntem: Bu araştırma, kesitsel tipte epidemiyolojik bir araştırmadır. Mayıs 2023-Temmuz 2023 tarihleri arasında yapılmıştır. Örneklem Kırşehir il merkezinde bulunan ASM’lere kayıtlı 18-49 yaş arasındaki kadınlar üzerinden, nüfusu bilinen örneklem yöntemi ile hesaplanmış ve çalışmaya 449 kişi dahil edilmiştir. Veri toplama formu iki kısımdan oluşmaktadır. İlk kısım, sosyodemografik özellikler ve aile planlaması kullanım durumunu irdeleyen sorular içermektedir. İkinci kısımda ise Kontraseptif Bilgi Değerlendirme Ölçeği kullanılmıştır.
Bulgular: Katılımcıların %42,3’ü aile planlaması konusunda yeterli bilgiye sahip olduklarını ve bilgi kaynaklarının %33,4 ile en çok sağlık kuruluşları olduğunu belirtmiştir. Katılımcıların %29,2’si istenmeyen gebelik yaşadığını, %27,8’i acil doğum kontrol yöntemi kullandıklarını ifade etmişlerdir. En çok kullanılan modern yöntemin %79,1 ile doğum kontrol hapı/iğnesi, geleneksel yöntemin ise %78 ile takvim yöntemi olduğu saptanmıştır. Araştırmaya katılan kadınların aile planlaması bilgi ölçeği puan ortancası 11,00 (Q1=8-Q3=14) puan olarak tespit edilmiştir. Ölçek puanları ile sosyodemografik özelikler karşılaştırıldığında çocuk sayısı ile bilgi puanı arasında istatistiksel bir fark olduğu saptanmıştır (p=0,043).
Sonuç: Bu çalışma sonucunda, aile planlaması yöntemleri hakkında bilgi düzeyinin istenilen seviyede olmadığı saptanmıştır. Aile planlaması yöntemleri ile ilgili toplumun farklı kesimlerine yönelik uygun eğitim ve farkındalık programlarının düzenlenmesi gerekmektedir. Ayrıca birinci basamak sağlık kuruluşlarında görev alan personelin de aile planlaması danışmanlık hizmetlerini etkin yürütebilmesi önem arz etmektedir.
Features of the legal status of the employer as a subject of labor law (on the example of the Republic of Dagestan)
Authors:   Osman A. Osmanov Dagestan State University, Osmanov Osman A. , Shakhgereev A.R. ,   A.R. Shakhgereev Dagestan State University
Published: February 2024

В статье анализируется проблема правового статуса работодателя. Актуальность темы статьи обусловлена тем, что работодатель является одним из субъектов трудового права. Поэтому важным представляется урегулирование правового статуса работодателя, организующего профессиональную работу сотрудников. Цель статьи – выделить особенности правового статуса работодателя согласно трудовому законодательству Российской Федерации. Научная новизна статьи заключается в том, что данный вопрос не был достаточно освещен в научных трудах. В статье говорится о том, что существует две категории работодателей: физические и юридические лица. Исследуются вопросы регулирования трудовых отношений между работодателем и работником. Рассматриваются особенности увольнения работника по инициативе работодателя. Приводятся примеры из судебной практики Республики Дагестан. Результатом исследования стали выводы о том, что работодатель должен строго соблюдать условия труда, соответствующие правам работника согласно трудовому договору и трудовому законодательству, за несоблюдение которых он несет ответственность перед работником.
The role of criminal justice bodies in the re-socialization of those convicted of terrorist and extremist crimes
Authors:   Abdulatip M. Abdulatipov Dagestan State University, Abdulatipov Abdulatip M.
Published: February 2024

В статье автор демонстрирует важнейшую роль органов уголовной юстиции в единой системе организации и осуществления мер по ресоциализации, социальной адаптации и реабилитация осужденных за преступления террористической и экстремистской направленности. Как отмечает автор, в России продолжается целенаправленный процесс реформирования системы ресоциализации осужденных. Внесенные автором предложения имеют концептуальное значение и направлены, в первую очередь, на поиск наиболее оптимальных взаимоотношений государственной и местной власти с институтами гражданского общества в исследуемой сфере. Так, автор предлагает подготовку единого нормативного правового акта, регулирующего комплексные вопросы ресоциализации осужденных с определением ответственной структуры за реализацию поставленных задач, а также учитывать в региональных комплексных программах потенциала органов уголовной юстиции во взаимодействии с органами исполнительной власти и правоохранительных органами, в первую очередь, подразделениями МВД России в ресоциализации осужденных. В ходе исследования автор сделал ряд других выводов и предложений, которые могут иметь теоретическое и практическое значение.
The role of information support and information technologies in the detection and investigation of crimes
Authors:   Julia V. Bystrova Kabardino-Balkarian State University named after H.M. Berbekova, Bystrova Julia V. , Nebratenko Gennady G. ,   Gennady G. Nebratenko  Don State Technical University
Published: February 2024

Современное информационное обеспечение правоохранительных органов, а также применение различных информационных технологий в рамках раскрытия и расследования уголовного дела ориентировано на получение достоверной информации, необходимой для его своевременного и эффективного раскрытия. В статье анализируются правовые основы применения информационных технологий, их виды, результаты их использования и применения в процессе раскрытия и расследования преступного деяния. Сделаны выводы о дальнейшей необходимости внедрения новых информационных технологий в российский уголовный процесс.
Ways and directions of development of Russian constitutionalism at the beginning of the 21st century
Authors:   Nikita S. Grudinin Moscow State Linguistic University, Grudinin Nikita S.
Published: February 2024

Статья посвящена исследованию возможных путей и направлений развития современного российского конституционализма. Отмечается, что в основе отечественного конституционализма лежат Конституция Российской Федерации 1993 года, идеи патриотизма и суверенной государственности, духовно-нравственные традиции и идеалы. Подчеркивается, что развитие российского конституционализма в начале XXI века должно строиться в русле укрепления основ демократической правовой социальной государственности, системы разделения властей, института местного самоуправления, создания надежного механизма защиты прав и свобод человека и гражданина. Автором сделан вывод о том, что развитие конституционализма невозможно без единства общества и государства.
Administrative coercion: controversial issues
Authors:   Gulbariyat M. Musayeva Dagestan State University, Musayeva Gulbariyat M.
Published: February 2024

Вопросы, связанные с административным принуждением как одним из методов реализации исполнительной власти в административном законодательстве, являются в настоящее время дискуссионными. Назрела необходимость принятия нового Кодекса об административных правонарушениях и Административно-процессуального кодекса, в котором нашли бы закрепление многочисленные меры административного принуждения. В статье в рамках общей характеристики административных мер принуждения рассматриваются проблемы, а также теоретико-правовые и методологические основы применения административного принуждения как одного из методов государственного принуждения. Задачей настоящего исследования является проведение анализа социального назначения и предназначения мер принуждения, применяемых в рамках исполнительно-распорядительной деятельности для регулирования поведения субъектов – участников общественных отношений, а также исследование государственного принуждения и его отличительных признаков. Анализируется система мер административного принуждения в государственном управлении. Особое внимание уделено раскрытию содержания понятия и сущности административного принуждения как одного из способов обеспечения законности в деятельности органов исполнительной власти и их должностных лиц. Делается вывод о том, что действующее административное законодательство вносит больше разногласий и споров при классификации и применении мер административного принуждения. Некоторые меры принудительного характера не зафиксированы в нормативных правовых актах.
Factors influencing the formation of the institution of ownership of nature
Authors:   Mikhail M. Brinchuk Moscow State University of Geodesy and Cartography (MIIGAiK), Brinchuk Mikhail M.
Published: February 2024

Статья написана в контексте потребностей общества в научно обоснованном формировании и осуществлении института права собственности на природу. Этим целям призван служить системный подход, основанный на выявлении и учете всех современных факторов, влияющих на эти процессы.
The prospect of including a social network account in the hereditary mass
Authors:   Radik Yu. Zakirov Kazan Branch of the Russian State University of Justice, Zakirov Radik Yu. , Khayarova Elza A. ,   Elza A. Khayarova Kazan Branch of the Russian State University of Justice
Published: February 2024

В процессе цифровизации взаимодействие между участниками гражданских правоотношений активно происходит в виртуальном пространстве, а именно в социальной сети. Вследствие роста спроса со стороны участников на виртуальное взаимодействие в юридической науке возникают дискуссии относительно правового режима аккаунта, который в правовой доктрине относят к виртуальному имуществу. Гражданское законодательство не регламентирует правовой режим аккаунта. Авторами научной статьи посредством анализа зарубежного опыта правового регулирования виртуального имущества рассматривается перспектива включения аккаунта в социальной сети в состав наследства. В ходе исследования были сформулированы понятие и признаки аккаунта, определен механизм включения аккаунта в наследственную массу и раскрыты особенности составления завещания с учетом позиций нотариусов.
Niveles de Vitamina D en pacientes con y sin Enfermedad Renal Crónica, perfil clínico y epidemiológico: un análisis preeliminiar en un hospital de segundo nivel en quito, Ecuador.
Authors: Benítez-Baldassari André , León-Hernández Estefanía , Banegas-Sarmiento Andrea , Aguayo-Moscoso Santiago , Vélez-Paéz Jorge Luis
Published: February 2024

Vitamin D has been associated with different effects unrelated to bone-mineral metabolism, such as its association with arterial hypertension. This study determines the prevalence profile of vitamin D deficiency and
insufficiency in Ecuadorian patients, its epidemiological profile, and its relationship with other diseases such
as arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. This is a pioneering study in Ecuador
of a retrospective type, carried out at the Pablo Arturo Suarez Hospital over 6 months, in which it was found
that the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency was 28.5% (levels between 21 to 30 ng/ml) and deficiency was
57% (levels less than 20 ng/ml); Likewise, we ratify the inverse relationship between vitamin D levels and
age, as well as finding a certain association between vitamin D levels and the presence of arterial hypertension;
while no significant differences were found in its relationship with diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease
without the use of renal replacement therapy and the general population.
Keywords: vitamin D, chronic kidney disease, metabolism.
Identifying Links Between Productivity and Biobehavioral Rhythms Modeled From Multimodal Sensor Streams: Exploratory Quantitative Study
Authors: Yan Runze , Liu Xinwen , Dutcher Janine M , Tumminia Michael J , Villalba Daniella , Cohen Sheldon , Creswell John D , Creswell Kasey , Mankoff Jennifer , Dey Anind K , Doryab Afsaneh
Published: February 2024

Background

Biobehavioral rhythms are biological, behavioral, and psychosocial processes with repeating cycles. Abnormal rhythms have been linked to various health issues, such as sleep disorders, obesity, and depression.

Objective

This study aims to identify links between productivity and biobehavioral rhythms modeled from passively collected mobile data streams.

Methods

In this study, we used a multimodal mobile sensing data set consisting of data collected from smartphones and Fitbits worn by 188 college students over a continuous period of 16 weeks. The participants reported their self-evaluated daily productivity score (ranging from 0 to 4) during weeks 1, 6, and 15. To analyze the data, we modeled cyclic human behavior patterns based on multimodal mobile sensing data gathered during weeks 1, 6, 15, and the adjacent weeks. Our methodology resulted in the creation of a rhythm model for each sensor feature. Additionally, we developed a correlation-based approach to identify connections between rhythm stability and high or low productivity levels.

Results

Differences exist in the biobehavioral rhythms of high- and low-productivity students, with those demonstrating greater rhythm stability also exhibiting higher productivity levels. Notably, a negative correlation (C=–0.16) was observed between productivity and the SE of the phase for the 24-hour period during week 1, with a higher SE indicative of lower rhythm stability.

Conclusions

Modeling biobehavioral rhythms has the potential to quantify and forecast productivity. The findings have implications for building novel cyber-human systems that align with human beings’ biobehavioral rhythms to improve health, well-being, and work performance.
Innovative Approaches to Menstruation and Fertility Tracking Using Wearable Reproductive Health Technology: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Lyzwinski Lynnette , Elgendi Mohamed , Menon Carlo
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Emerging digital health technology has moved into the reproductive health market for female individuals. In the past, mobile health apps have been used to monitor the menstrual cycle using manual entry. New technological trends involve the use of wearable devices to track fertility by assessing physiological changes such as temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aims of this study are to review the types of wearables that have been developed and evaluated for menstrual cycle tracking and to examine whether they may detect changes in the menstrual cycle in female individuals. Another aim is to review whether these devices are effective for tracking various stages in the menstrual cycle including ovulation and menstruation. Finally, the secondary aim is to assess whether the studies have validated their findings by reporting accuracy and sensitivity.

METHODS

A review of PubMed or MEDLINE was undertaken to evaluate wearable devices for their effectiveness in predicting fertility and differentiating between the different stages of the menstrual cycle.

RESULTS

Fertility cycle–tracking wearables include devices that can be worn on the wrists, on the fingers, intravaginally, and inside the ear. Wearable devices hold promise for predicting different stages of the menstrual cycle including the fertile window and may be used by female individuals as part of their reproductive health. Most devices had high accuracy for detecting fertility and were able to differentiate between the luteal phase (early and late), fertile window, and menstruation by assessing changes in heart rate, heart rate variability, temperature, and respiratory rate.

CONCLUSIONS

More research is needed to evaluate consumer perspectives on reproductive technology for monitoring fertility, and ethical issues around the privacy of digital data need to be addressed. Additionally, there is also a need for more studies to validate and confirm this research, given its scarcity, especially in relation to changes in respiratory rate as a proxy for reproductive cycle staging.
Chatbots in Psychology: Revolutionizing Clinical Support and Mental Health Care (Preprint)
Authors: Defilippis Rocco , Al Foysal Abdullah Al Foysal
Published: February 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Abstract: The field of mental health care is undergoing a transformative shift with the integration of chatbots, offering scalable and accessible support to individuals in need. This article explores the revolutionary role of chatbots in clinical psychology, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize clinical support and mental health care. By understanding the psychological landscape and tailoring conversations for therapeutic impact, chatbots can contribute to screening, early intervention, and personalized treatment plans. The 24/7 accessibility and immediate response capabilities of chatbots provide valuable support, while ethical standards and data security measures ensure user confidentiality. Collaboration between chatbots and mental health professionals is explored, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between technology and human expertise. Through user feedback and continuous improvement, chatbots have the potential to refine their capabilities, offering an innovative and complementary approach to traditional therapeutic methods. This article advocates for ongoing research, collaboration, and ethical considerations in leveraging chatbots to revolutionize mental health care.
A CLINICAL STUDY OF VARIOUS PATTERNS OF ABDOMINAL WALL HERNIA WITH SPECIAL EMPHASIS ON INGUINAL HERNIA AND IT’S CORRELATION WITH PRE-OPERATIVE ULTRASONOGRAPHY AND INTRAOPERATIVE FINDINGS AT TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Authors: Saran Tejpal Singh , SP Chouhan , Singh Harpinder
Published: February 2024

Objective: Various presentations of abdominal wall hernia and their clinical correlation to preoperative ultrasonography report and intraoperative findings.
Methods: Fifty consecutive patients were admitted to the Department of General Surgery at PMCH, Udaipur, during January 2021–June 2022, with a mean follow-up period of 18 months. The patient’s particulars, elaborate h/o complaints, clinical examination, investigations, procedure done, and post-operative complications were recorded.
Results: Maximum cases reported had a right inguinal hernia, hence right inguinal hernioplasty was performed in 46% of cases, followed by left inguinal hernioplasty in 32%, bilateral inguinal hernioplasty in 14%, and epigastric and mesh hernioplasty in 4% each. The judgemental accuracy and of ultrasound (USG) had sensitivity of 86.96%, specificity of 100.00%, and accuracy of 88.00%. Intraoperatively, 92% of sonography findings were confirmed. In only six cases, the findings differed from ultrasound.
Conclusion: High-resolution sonography is an accurate diagnostic imaging modality in anterior abdominal wall lesions. The advantages of high-resolution sonography include noninvasiveness, high accuracy, lack of ionizing radiation, simplicity, wide availability, cost-effectiveness, and repeatability.
A STUDY ON FINGERTIP DERMATOGLYPHIC PATTERN IN PATIENTS WITH MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION IN THE NORTH INDIAN POPULATION
Authors: Kumari Reenu , MAHATO PAWAN KUMAR , YADAV AMOD KUMAR , PANDEY NIVEDITA
Published: February 2024

Objectives: Myocardial infarction is one of the rising heart ailments causing mortality and morbidity around the world and especially in the north Indian population. In earlier studies, it has been found that dermatoglyphics and myocardial infarction have a correlation due to genetic disposition. The present study is based on the same hypothesis to find out such a relation and its uses as an economical diagnostic tool.
Methods: The present study was conducted after taking informed consent forms from 150 patients with myocardial infarction as cases, whereas 150 normal health individuals were included in the study as controls. Fingerprints were taken using the method described by Cummin and Mildo.
Result: The study found that the different fingerprints which are whorls, arches, and loops have a specific pattern that differs in myocardial infarction cases and control. In some cases, the loop and whorls have been increasing, whereas the arches were found to be decreasing as compared to controls. The mean total finger ridge count (TFRC) and absolute finger ridge count (AFRC) have been found to decrease in both males and females and the decrease was statistically significant.
Conclusion: Dermatoglyphics and myocardial infarction have shown a close correlation due to genetic association. Thus, it can be used as one of the cost-effective diagnostic tools for myocardial infarction.
TRENDS OF SYPHILIS AMONG BLOOD DONORS AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTER IN WESTERN RAJASTHAN: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE IMPACT OF COVID-19
Authors: Bharti Arun , Alha Sonam , Mathur Rishi , Mahawar Novrang Lal , Seegar Hemant
Published: February 2024

Objective: This observational study aimed to determine the prevalence and trends of syphilis among blood donors at a tertiary care center in Western Rajasthan and assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on testing and diagnosis rates.
Methods: The study included 208,264 blood donors who donated blood at the blood center from 2017 to 2022. The blood samples were tested for all mandatory transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs), including syphilis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Results: The overall seropositivity of TTIs was 1.97%, with a moderate prevalence of syphilis among blood donors. The percentage of syphilis-positive samples varied each year, with the highest percentage in 2020 (1.02%) and the lowest in 2019 (0.68%). The study found decreasing trends of syphilis prevalence among blood donors over the years. However, the percentage of positive samples in 2020 was higher than in the other years, potentially due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the prevalence and trends of syphilis among blood donors in Western Rajasthan and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on testing and diagnosis rates. The findings may inform strategies for maintaining access to sexual and reproductive health services during times of crisis, as well as for the prevention and control of syphilis in the region.
CORRELATION OF BLOOD PRESSURE CHANGES IN RESPONSE TO SUSTAINED ISOMETRIC EXERCISE WITH RESPECT TO BODY MASS INDEX IN ADULTS OF HASSAN, KARNATAKA
Authors: Divyashree  , MAMATHA CHIKKADANUR NINGANNA , VEENA HOSALLI CHANDREGOWDA
Published: February 2024

Objective: The prevalence of obesity is increasing among Indians. Body mass index (BMI) marker of obesity might affect the pressure response to exercise. The present study was undertaken to correlate the blood pressure response to isometric exercise with BMI among males and females.
Method: This cross-sectional study comprised 100 male and 100 female subjects 20–40 years old depending on the set inclusion and exclusion criteria. Anthropometric parameters weight, height measured, and blood pressure recorded before exercise. Then subjects were asked to execute isometric hand grip strength at 30% of their maximum voluntary contraction and blood pressure was recorded before the release hand grip. Data were analyzed by the mean and standard deviation of systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP). An unpaired t-test was to compare blood pressure parameter changes in isometric exercise between males and females. Pearson’s coefficient of correlation test was used to correlate blood pressure response with BMI in males and females. Statistical significance was fixed at a p<0.05.
Result: In both males and females, SBP, DBP, and MAP were increased after exercise. There is a significant positive correlation between DBP response to isometric exercise with BMI among males and females.
Conclusion: This knowledge about the variation of blood pressure response to isometric exercise with BMI is essential for the physicians to educate overweight and obese individuals to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent future cardiovascular morbidity.
IMPACT OF GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS ON HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS, LIVER FUNCTION, RENAL FUNCTION, AND LIPID PROFILE IN ANTENATAL WOMEN AT A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Shanmugam Vijaya Devi , MURUGESAN Danasegaran , Nanjundappan Shruthi
Published: February 2024

Objective: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a condition in which glucose intolerance is first recognized during pregnancy. It affects a substantial percentage of pregnancies globally, with a significant prevalence in India. Iron supplementation is often recommended to prevent anemia, but caution is advised in GDM due to the potential inflammatory effects. Elevated hemoglobin (Hb) levels, associated with excess iron, may increase the risk of GDM. This study aims to investigate the differences in Hb and various other blood parameters between controlled and uncontrolled GDM mothers attending antenatal OPD for a regular check-up.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 women diagnosed with GDM at a tertiary care hospital in Western Tamil Nadu after obtaining ethical clearance and informed consent from the participants. Routine blood investigations, like a complete hemogram, HbA1C, renal and liver function tests, and lipid profiles, were recorded. Participants were categorized based on HbA1C values (<6.5 as normal, >6.5 as abnormal). Differences in blood parameters between the two groups were statistically analyzed.
Results: The study found no significant differences in age, weight, height, or BMI between the controlled and uncontrolled GDM groups. Mean HbA1c levels were 5.58±0.41 and 6.98±1.23 in controlled and uncontrolled GDM groups, respectively. Comparing hematological parameters, the controlled GDM group exhibited higher mean red blood cell (RBC) levels (4.6±0.69 vs. 4.12±0.92) but lower Hb levels (12.25±2.26 vs. 11.01±3.59) than the uncontrolled GDM group. There were no significant differences in platelet, lymphocyte, and MCH levels. Urea, triglycerides, and globulin levels were higher in the uncontrolled GDM group, but all values remained within normal limits.
Conclusion: Elevated Hb levels were associated with uncontrolled GDM, indicating a potential risk factor. The study underscores the importance of monitoring iron levels in GDM patients. In addition, heightened white blood cell counts and altered hematological parameters suggest an inflammatory component in uncontrolled GDM. Further research is warranted to explore these associations and their clinical implications for managing GDM effectively.
THYROID FUNCTION ABNORMALITIES IN PATIENTS WITH CHOLELITHIASIS: A HOSPITAL-BASED CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: SAXENA AVANISH KUMAR , FATIMA ANAM , VENKATA SIVA KUNDRAPU VEERA , PARIYA ANUSHKA , CHINMAYI VAYALAPALLI SYAMA
Published: February 2024

Objective: The objective of the study is to analyze the association between thyroid function abnormalities and cholelithiasis, focusing on the prevalence and types of thyroid dysfunctions in patients with gallstone disease compared to a healthy control group.
Methods: A comparative, hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of general surgery at a tertiary care medical college. The study included 60 patients diagnosed with cholelithiasis (Group A) and 60 age-matched healthy individuals (Group B). Detailed history, physical examinations, ultrasound imaging, and thyroid function tests (TFTs) were performed. TFTs included measurements of free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone. Patients were categorized based on thyroid status into euthyroid, subclinical and clinical hypothyroidism, and hyperthyroidism. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: The study revealed a female preponderance in cholelithiasis cases (76.67% in Group A vs. 65.00% in Group B). The mean age and BMI were comparable between the groups. Thyroid function abnormalities were more prevalent in the cholelithiasis group (p=0.0251), with a higher incidence of hypothyroidism compared to the control group. Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common thyroid dysfunction in cholelithiasis patients. Common complaints in the cholelithiasis group included anemia, menstrual irregularities, skin changes, and weakness.
Conclusion: The study demonstrates a significant association between cholelithiasis and thyroid function abnormalities, particularly hypothyroidism. The findings suggest the need for routine thyroid function evaluation in patients with cholelithiasis, which could influence management strategies and improve patient outcomes.
A Comprehensive Exploration of the Capital Asset Pricing Model
Authors: Khot Keya
Published: February 2024

Abstract - In this comprehensive paper, we embark on a journey to explore the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) in both theoretical depth and practical breadth. Beginning with an introduction that traces its historical origins and fundamental principles, we delve into the model's theoretical underpinnings, elucidating its core concepts and underlying assumptions. Transitioning from theory to practice, we provide a detailed roadmap for the CAPM's real-world implementation, offering practical insights through examples and case studies. Throughout, we address the model's significance as a foundational pillar of finance, its enduring relevance in contemporary markets, and the practical nuances and limitations that both newcomers and seasoned professionals must navigate to make informed investment decisions. This paper aims to empower readers with a comprehensive understanding of the CAPM, bridging the gap between its theoretical elegance and its practical utility in today's multifaceted financial landscape
Grammatical cohesion found in undergraduate student’s thesis writing: A case study at one private university in Indonesia
Authors: Ulfa Risma Liyana , Ramadhani Reski
Published: February 2024

Writing an excellent and comprehensive text depends on applying appropriate grammatical cohesive devices. This study aims to investigate the types and errors of the grammatical cohesive devices found in the undergraduate student's thesis. The analysis used in the present study applied the framework of Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) proposed by Halliday and Hasan (2014). Through the qualitative design with content analysis, this study examines two undergraduate students' theses, focusing on finding and discussing sections at one private university in Jakarta. The analysis revealed that grammatical cohesive devices in the thesis are not diverse. The data's most dominant grammatical cohesive devices are references and conjunctions—no elliptical and substitution devices are found in the data. Besides, errors in applying grammatical cohesion in the undergraduate students' writing were found, especially in using personal and demonstrative references and extension conjunctions. It indicates that the students still lack understanding in applying the knowledge of grammatical cohesion in their writing, influencing the readers' understanding in capturing information from the thesis. It implies that the knowledge of appropriate grammatical cohesion is essential for students in academic writing, predominantly undergraduate thesis, to convey the ideas and information properly and coherently.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Insider’s Perspective in Public and Academic Libraries
Authors: Lamberts Ryan
Published: February 2024

This paper's purpose is to bring to light the social issue of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and how public and academic libraries are making strides to better serve this branch of the population. Definitions will be provided to better explain what challenges ASD patrons face. In turn, librarians across America, specifically in Illinois and Ohio in recent years, have come together to discuss in both literature and national forums what they are continually doing to better serve, educate, and support their patrons and train their librarians. ASD is a complex social issue faced by millions; one widely covered and not easily solved alone, but through strategic planning and partnerships, libraries are formulating some creative solutions to meet these challenges. Also touched on will be the perspectives of librarians with ASD; the challenges they face each day, and where they see the future for people with ASD working in a library setting. Let us discover how libraries are rising above these challenges and becoming better informed to equip one another to serve all their patrons
Trend Analysis of Sports Tourism in Chungcheongnam-do Based on Text Mining and CONCOR Analysis (2010~2023)
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Choi Joohyun , Eom Jin Jong
Published: February 2024

Objectives The purposes of this study were to analyse sports tourism trends in Chungcheongnam-do based on big data analysis, text mining and CONCOR analysis.
Methods This study used TEXTOM 6.0, a big data program, and the search keywords were 'Chungcheongnam-do+sports+tourism', and the data collection period was classified into three periods (2010~2014, 2015~2019, 2020~2023).
Results As a result of the text mining analysis, the main keywords were 'Chungcheongnam-do, sports, tourism, presidential tournament, amateur, tournament, Boryeong-si, promotion project, creation', and the CONCOR anal-ysis resulted in a group of keywords related to regional festivals, a group of keywords related to sports com-petitions, and a group of keywords related to Boryeong-si, a sports city.
Conclusions This study confirmed that promoting sports tourism using e-sports competitions, fostering sports-specific cities such as Boryeong-si, and inducing additional economic effects of sports tourism through attracting sports competitions can be a way to develop regional sports tourism.
أسلوب التحسين المستمر كأداة استراتيجية فعالة للحصول علي ميزة تنافسية CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT METHOD AS AN EFFECTIVE STRATEGIC TOOL TO INCREASE THE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Authors: Ibrahim Elgool Zedan Mohamed , Lubis Asmuliadi , Mansor Fadillah
Published: February 2024

هدفت هذه الدراسة إلي تسليط الضوء علي التحسين المستمر كإحدي الوسائل الاستراتيجية المتبعة في عالمنا اليوم، كنتيجة للتطورات التي حدتث في بيئة المؤسسات الحديثة ، وتوضيح مدي حجم الاستفادة منها من قبل المنظمات سواء كانت عامة أو خاصة، صناعية كانت أم خدمية، التي تسعي إلي تحسين المكانة والقدرة التنافسية لها، وذلك من خلال اتباع الوسائل المناسبة لتحقيق العملية التحسينية علي أنشطتها. ولغرض تحقيق الهدف المنشود تم دراسة الأبحاث السابقة للتعرف على معنى التحسين المستمر و الميزة التنافسية و العلاقة بينهم . فهذا البحث يهدف إلي تسليط الضوء علي تقنية التحسين المستمر كإحدي الاستراتيجيات المعاصرة، التي تعتبر استراتيجية فعالة لمواكبة التطورات التي تحدث في المؤسسات ، و كيفية الاستفادة من التطورات من قبل المنظمات سواءا الخدمية منها أو الصناعية. و خلال البحث تم عرض فرضية أنه توجد علاقة ارتباط ذات دلالة احصائية بين التحسين المستمر وتحقيق الميزة التنافسية. وكذلك تم عرض النتائج التي تم التوصل إليها وتقديم بعض التوصيات علي ضوئها.
الرقابة من وجهة النظر الإسلامية في المؤسسات التعليمية الليبية THE CENSORSHIP FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE IN THE LIBYAN EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Almaghrabi Albarani Fathalla Mansour , Lubis Asmuliadi , bin Sarif Suhaili
Published: February 2024

This study aims to identify the censorship from Islamic perspective. The problem is there is less concern about using facilities censorship as Allah said in AlQuran and Sunnah. There is lack of using the Islamic perspective of censorship and recreate human behaviour that may negatively effects of the Libyan educational institutions. The importance of the study is to highlight the importance of Islamic perspective of censorship and work with the order of what Allah said for submitting work with highly efficiency to gain Allah satisfaction. This study follows descriptive and analytical to describe and analyse the censorship from the Islamic perspective. This study has several results, the censorship from Islamic perspective in achieving to reduce the financial and administrative corruption in the Libyan educational institutions. This study recommended to use the simulation idea to implement the successful experience from any Islamic country to use the censorship from Islamic perspective. This study also recommended to highlight the fear from Allah without delaying or corruption of the work inside Libyan intuitions.
THE DEVASTATED NATURE OF INTEREST BASED DEBT FOR DEVELOPMENT, HUMANITY AND COUNTRIES
Authors: Ghutai Gul
Published: February 2024

Interest based debt acquired by countries for their developmental concerns through foreign funding agencies has harmed the residents of those nations. Humans are considered as commodity for the ones having power and affluence thus, having greatest concentration of wealth which is accumulated through distribution of interest-based debts. The study is conducted to analyze the devastated effect of interest-based debt obtained for developmental concerns upon humanity and countries particularly Pakistan. The question arises to what extent interest-based debt acquired for developmental purposes affected Country’s sovereignty. This study applies Qualitative research methodology in pursual of building a conceptual framework by incorporating inductive paradigm. Interest based debt acts as a curse for nation’s economic-social prosperity, political stability, and spiritual values. The study suggests that interest-based debt as phenomena helps in accumulation of national and global wealth in fewer hands. It is in the best interest of the world to be aware of corporate greed and self-interest strategies in the veil of distributing interest-based loans for developmental concerns which is a debt trap and can be avoided by enforcing interest free economic policies in their respective territories to promote socio-economic wellbeing of the masses generally and particularly in Pakistan.