bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
الابعاد المتحققة للصورة الذهنية إزاء التنمية الاقتصادية / دراسة ميدانية لجمهور محافظة واسط
Authors: شيماء سرحان التميمي الباحثة , اثير نوري عطيوي الباحث
Published: April 2024

يسعى البحث لرسم رؤية للجهات الحكومية الرسمية والمسؤولة عن المشاريع الاقتصادية في المحافظة من أجل تحقيق أهداف التنمية المستدامة , من طريق معرفة الصورة المرسومة لدى الجمهور عن تلك المشاريع التنموية ؛ وذلك لأنّ الصورة الذهنية لدى المجتمع تجاه مشاريع التنمية الاقتصادية في محافظة واسط تعد مسألة مهمة وحيوية ,في ضوء العوامل الاجتماعية والثقافية التي منها العادات والتقاليد التي تؤثر في سير العمل في بعض المشاريع وعملية التفاعل معها والمشاركة الفعالة في المشاريع التنموية , كل ذلك ينبع من قلة الوعي في تلك المشاريع الذي ينتج عنه قلة المعلومات او عدم شفافيتها , وكل ذلك يؤثر في تفاعل المجتمع مع المشاريع الاقتصادية التنموية , وتكمن مشكلة البحث الرئيسة في السؤال: ما الصورة المتكونة عن مشاريع التنمية الاقتصادية لدى جماهير محافظة واسط؟
     إنّ هدف البحث الرئيس هو الكشف عن طبيعة الصورة الذهنية للمشاريع الاقتصادية التنموية في المحافظة , ومعرفة العوامل التي أدت الى تكوين تلك الصورة ؛ لأنّ ذلك يؤثر في سير العمل في تلك المشاريع و بالأخص اذا كانت هناك عوامل اجتماعية تتعلق بالعادات والتقاليد  والبيئة الاجتماعية الخاصة بالمجتمع الواسطي ,لذلك فهم تلك الصورة يساعد على تحقيق اهداف التنمية المستدامة في المحافظة , وقد توصل البحث الى نتائج عدة من اهمها ان مستوى الوعي في المجتمع الواسطي متباين وخاصة في مستوى المعرفة بتلك المشاريع الاقتصادية مع وجود تحفظات وعدم يقين في بعض تلك المشاريع , فضلا عن أنّ هناك عقبات اجتماعية وثقافية تؤثر في مدى تنفيذ تلك المشاريع الاقتصادية, وهذا يؤدي بالسلب على تطور المحافظة من الناحية العمرانية , كذلك وجود عدم فهم او ادراك لأهمية التنمية الاقتصادية في المحافظة , فضلا عن عدم وجود توعية اعلامية او وجود دور للأعلام الحكومي المحلي في المحافظة في التوعية بالمشاريع الاقتصادية واهميتها .
مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي ودورها في ترويج منتجات التجميل للمرأة العراقية
Authors: حمزه خالد مطشر الباحث
Published: April 2024

تعد مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي من أقوى أدوات ووسائل التي تعتمد للترويج في هذا العصر بشكل عام ولمنتجات التجميل بشكل خاص، إذ تؤثر هذه المواقع بشكل كبير في تصور الجمال والثقة بالنفس لدى المرأة العراقية؛ إذ تستعمل هذه المواقع لنشر محتوى ترويجي وإعلانات للمنتجات والخدمات الخاصة بالجمال، وتوفر منصة للنساء العراقيات لمشاركة ومقارنة صورهن وتجاربهن في مجال التجميل، فقد تتعرض المرأة العراقية لمحتوى ترويجي للجمال عبر تلك الوسائل باستمرار، وينعكس هذا بتصورها للجمال الذي يؤدي إلى تطوير معايير الجمال غير الواقعية وغير المرتبطة بالمظهر الخارجي، وقد يتسبب الاستخدام الزائد لوسائل التواصل الاجتماعي إلى انخفاض مستوى ضعف الثقة بالذات لدى المرأة العراقية، إذ يمكن أن تشعر بالضغط لمطابقة المعايير الجمالية اللاواقعية المعروضة على هذه الوسائل.
اعتمد الباحث في دراسته "المنهج الوصفي" معتمدًا على أداة الاستبانة التي تم توزيعها على عينة بشكل قصدي على النساء التي ترتاد مراكز التجميل في محافظة واسط؛ للحصول على المؤشرات والبيانات وتحليلها لتحديد العلاقة بين مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي ومنتجات تجميل المرأة العراقية.
فقد استنتجت الدراسة عدة نتائج، أبرزها:

تشعر المرأة العراقية بالضغط النفسي وبشكل كبير للحصول على مظهر جمال مثالي بناءً على مشاهدة منصات التواصل الاجتماعي.
تعزز منصات التواصل الاجتماعي بشكل كبير مقاييس الجمال غير الواقعية بين النساء.
تؤثر مواقع التواصل الاجتماعي سلبًا في الثقة بالنفس والصورة الذاتية عندما يتعلق الأمر بالمظهر الخارجي.
المسؤولية الاجتماعية للاذاعات العراقية في ترسيخ القيم الاجتماعية / دراسة تحليلية لاذاعة الرابعة fm على الفيس بوك
Authors: الحسين سعيد عبد الهادي المرهج م.م
Published: April 2024

تشكل القيم ظاهرة متطورة ومتغيرة ، حتى وان بقت هذه القيم بالفاظها ثابتة ، فان معانيها في ضوء الظروف الاجتماعية والسياسية والاقتصادية في المجتمع تتعدد وتتغير بشكل مستمر ، وتعد الاذاعات من ابرز وسائل الاتصال التي لها علاقة وثيقة بالقيم والمعايير الاجتماعية ، فمعظم هذه الاذاعات تهدف الى تغيير اتجاهات الجمهور وفق اهدافها وبرامجها المتنوعة ، وتنقل اتجاهات وافكار وقيما جديدة اليهم ، ولما كان تطوير القيم الاجتماعية من الامور التي تتطلب جهدا كبيرا فضلا عن منظور تاريخي يقيم لاصالتها وامتدادها في جوف العمق الاجتماعي والثقافي ، ومن هنا يبرز دور الاذاعات في مجال تطوير القيم القديمة وادخال قيم جديدة قد تتعارض مع المسؤولية الاجتماعية للقيم . الامر الذي جعلني ادرس هذه المشكلة من خلال تحليل المنشورات اذاعه الرابعه fm على منصة الفيس بوك للمدة من 1/10/2023 ولغايه 31/12/2023 ، حيث بلغ عدد المنشورات التي تم تحليلها (579) منشورا وذلك باستخدام المنهج الوصفي، وبالاعتماد على اداة تحليل المضمون ، حيث تم تصنيف القيم الى ثمانية قيم رئيسية ، وثلاثة قيم فرعية لكل قيمة اساسية ، وبعد اعتماد الجداول وتفسيرها وتحليلها توصل الباحث الى مجموعة من النتائج لعل اهمها:

احتلت القيم الاجتماعية المرتبة الاولى بنسبة 50% ، وذلك بسبب كونها من اكثر القيم التي تهم المجتمع العراقي.
نالت فئة رفع المستوى المعاشي للفقراء اهتمام الاذاعة بشكل واضح جدا بنسبة 40.8% ، وكذلك الحال بالنسبة الى فئة احترام كرامة الانسان.
اعتمدت الاذاعة على مقاطع الفيديو بنسبة كبيرة جدا ؛ إذ بلغت 90.5% ، وذلك بسبب اهمية هذه الخاصية في ترسيخ القيم بالصورة والصوت .

     وفي نهاية البحث قام الباحث بعرض النتائج وتفسيرها واقتراح التوصيات وذلك بالاعتماد على الموروث الفكري والدراسات السابقة.
Feasibility of first principles molecular dynamics in fault-tolerant quantum computer by quantum phase estimation
Authors: Kikuchi Ichio , Kikuchi Akihito
Published: April 2024

This article shows a proof of concept regarding the feasibility of ab initio molecular simulation, wherein the wavefunctions and the positions of nuclei are simultaneously determined by the quantum algorithm, as is realized by the so-called Car-Parrinello method by classical computing. The approach used in this article is of a hybrid style, which shall be realized by future fault-tolerant quantum computer. First, the basic equations are approximated by polynomials. Second, those polynomials are transformed to a specific form, wherein all variables (representing the wavefunctions and the atomic coordinates) are given by the transformations acting on a linear space of monomials with finite dimension, and the unknown variables could be determined as the eigenvalues of those transformation matrices. Third, the eigenvalues are determined by quantum phase estimation. Following these three steps, namely, symbolic, numeric, and quantum steps, we can determine the optimized electronic and atomic structures of molecules.
Unintended Consequences? Russian Disinformation and Public Opinion
Authors: Hlatky Roman
Published: April 2024

A free, open media is requisite for well-functioning democracy. Whether the modern media environment fulfills this function is, however, debatable. Disinformation -- the deliberate provision of false or misleading narratives with harmful intent -- is a particular concern. This concern is particularly acute in Central Europe, where disinformation intends to undermine support for Euro-Atlanticism by stoking identity-related grievances amongst socioculturally conservative individuals. Yet, we lack causal evidence concerning whether and to what extent this disinformation impacts attitudes. Using the critical case of Slovakia, this article identifies predictors of disinformation readership and trust, as well as disinformation's effects on anti-European Union, prejudiced, and xenophobic attitudes. Disinformation exposure leads to a backlash effect: false news headlines shift opinion in a pro-Europe, less prejudiced direction. Heterogeneous effects amongst ideological subgroups underscore how directionally motivated information processing conditions individual reactions. This analysis shows that the impact of disinformation depends on the ideological convictions of the target audience.
Calling all wine snobs, shut up and drink the wine!
Authors: Lee Kai-Sean
Published: April 2024

Is wine a snobbish product? Yes, it can be, especially when one is from a region where viticulture is non-native. But should wine be a product of snobbery? In this essay, the authors reflect on the intimidating world of wine tasting and its potential to breed snobbery. The authors explore the classist undertones embedded in traditional wine lexicons rooted in European tastes, critiquing its ways, and how it deters today’s diverse consumers and learners. Challenging the norm, the authors advocate for a new pedagogical approach called “whining about wine” or “w(h)ine/w(h)ining,” a perspective that desnobberizes wine and emphasizes its role as a unifying medium rather than a divisive, elitist product. The essay proposes a pedagogical shift away from snobbery perpetuation, and towards a pedagogy that embraces self-awareness, experiential engagement, and internal knowing.
Strategic Investments for Enhancing Power System Resilience through Zonal Microgrids
Authors: Yankson Samuel , Sheida Kouhyar , Ferdowsi Farzad , Chambers Terrence , Mehraeen Shahab
Published: April 2024

The existing power system is confronted with a myriad of challenges and encompassing issues such as ageing infrastructure, dynamic shifts in energy demand patterns and disturbances induced by climate change. Given the pivotal role played by the power sector in contemporary society by providing essential services and supporting economic activities, ensuring the resilience of power systems is a top priority for governments, utilities and other stakeholders like consumers. The extant power grid characterized by its aging components, requires a complete overhaul to enhance its resilience in the wake of increasing weather-induced power disruptions attributed to climate change. However, outright replacement of the existing is presently deemed economically impractical, entailing significant costs and negative social impacts. Instead, a more pragmatic strategy to augment the overall system resilience involves identifying and reinforcing critical sectors of the grid at a reasonable cost and with reasonable disruptions. This paper explores the concept of smart investment as a strategic framework to enhance power system resilience. We propose a vulnerability assessment framework, where N-1 contingency criteria are used to identify the most vulnerable lines to help determine the critical areas to be prioritized for resilience improvement investments. After identification of the critical areas, a resilience enhancement strategy which involves partitioning of the existing distribution network in zonal microgrids and optimally sizing and placing DERs in the individual microgrids is implemented. A real-life existing distribution network is used as a case study for the proposed framework to prove its effectiveness. OpenDSS a power system distribution network simulator is paired with MATLAB in implementing the proposed strategies which resulted in a significant improvement in the resilience of the systems, measured in terms of unserved loads.
Cost-Aware Strategies for Enhancing Energy Resilience in Microgrids via Stationary and Mobile Resources
Authors: Ullah SM Safayet , Ferdowsi Farzad , Chambers Terrence
Published: April 2024

The primary goal of this research study is to enhance energy resilience with a focus on cost efficiency. To achieve this objective, two key objectives have been identified: 1) reducing unserved loads, and 2) implementing cost-effective resource allocation strategies. A high-fidelity real-time model of a solar plus storage microgrid is developed to simulate a variety of what-if scenarios. This model is based on the conceptual design of a campus microgrid facility, which is slated for commissioning at UL Lafayette in close collaboration with a local power utility. The study examines the microgrid’s performance under different configurations, including both stationary battery and mobile battery storage options. To ensure the realism of the scenarios, real solar data from specific days following the occurrence of three major hurricanes in Louisiana is utilized. The analysis includes an assessment of unserved loads under various scenarios, as well as an investigation into the resilience impact of investment decisions and the planning and operation of mobile storage systems. The results indicate the proposed planning and operation will improve resilience while staying within the profitable range. The resilience is quantified and compared with other scenarios providing an insightful planning framework for decision-makers.
Leveraging syntactic dependencies in disambiguation: the case of African American English
Authors: Previlon Wilermine , Rozet Alice , Gowda Jotsna , Dyer William , Tang Kevin , Moeller Sarah
Published: April 2024

African American English (AAE) has received recent attention in the field of natural language processing (NLP). Efforts to address bias against AAE in NLP systems tend to focus on lexical differences. Whenever the structural uniqueness of AAE is considered, the solution is often to remove or neutralize the differences. This work leverages knowledge about the unique morphosyntactic structures to improve automatic disambiguation of habitual and nonhabitual meanings of “be” in naturally produced AAE transcribed speech. Both meanings are employed in AAE but examples of Habitual be are rare in the already limited AAE data. Generally, representing contextual syntactic information improves semantic disambiguation of habituality. Using an ensemble of classical machine learning models with a representation of the unique POS and dependency patterns of Habitual be, we show that integrating syntactic information improves the identification of habitual uses of “be” by about 65 F1 points over a simple baseline model of n-grams, and as much as 74 points. The success of this approach demonstrates the potential impact when weembrace, rather than neutralize, the structural uniqueness of African American English.
Perbandingan Performa Antara Treatment Hydrochloric Acid dan Carboxylic Acid Terhadap Kenaikan Produksi pada Sumur Minyak Berat
Authors: Itsnaini Hafizh , Sunarno Sunarno , Padil Padil
Published: April 2024

Duri steam flood is the largest hot steam injection project in Indonesia, facing challenges in preventing production declines. Objective project is showed decrease in production due to crustal deposition (scale). The Stiff and Davis method shows a Stability Index of 1.43, with a tendency for scale formation, especially CaCO3, in accordance with the Ryznar method. Increasing the production of x, yz layer wells in the Duri field, designing acidification stimulation with a pumping pressure of 400 psi, an injection rate of 2 bbl/minute and an acid volume of 600 gallons, after that comparing the performance of hydrochloric acid and carboxylic acid. Analysis showed that hydrochloric stimulation resulted in a significant increase in production of 115 BFPD / 8 BOPD (42% increase), while carboxylate stimulation showed a slower increase of 40 BFPD / 3 BOPD (24% increase). An economic evaluation shows chloride acidification produces an annual NPV gain of $48,002, compared to carboxylate acidification with an annual NPV gain of $22,554. Thus, chloride acidification proved to be economically profitable for the x, yz layers in the Duri field. This study highlights optimal acid stimulation strategies to mitigate scale-related production challenges in steam flood projects.
Sintesis dan Karakterisasi Katalis Nikel Zeolit Alam Ni/NZA
Authors: Bahri Syaiful , Saputra Edy , Herman Syamsu , Muhdarina Muhdarina
Published: April 2024

Research has been conducted to manufacture Ni/NZA for catalytic cracking of empty palm fruit bunches into liquid fuel. The study aims to investigate the impact of metal impregnation and calcination time variations on catalyst crystallinity and morphology. The catalyst is produced in multiple stages, including NZ activation using acid, followed by metal impregnation at 0%, 1%, 3%, and 5% w/w, and calcination at 500oC for 2, 4, and 6 hours, respectively. It is then oxidized at 400oC for 2 hours and reduced at 400oC for 2 hours. The catalyst's crystallinity, morphology, and metal distribution are determined through X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis. The catalyst with the best crystallinity and metal distribution is found to have 3% metal loading and a calcination time of 2 hours.
KEBIJAKAN PENGELOLAAN DAN PEMANFAATAN ASET DESA
Authors: Akbar Ilham , Marta Auradian , Zulkarnaini Zulkarnaini
Published: April 2024

Pengelolaan aset desa merupakan salah satu bentuk dari otonomi desa, dan ini penting untuk dilakukan terutama bagi desa yang mempunyai aset desa dan berpotensi menghasilkan pendapatan asli desa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengelolaan aset desa dan faktor penghambat dalam melakukan pengelolaan aset desa tersebut. Riset ini menggunakan jenis penelitian deskriptif dengan menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Adapun subjek yang terlibat dalam penelitian ini yakni Kepala Desa Desa Bongkal Malang, Ketua BPD Desa Bongkal Malang, Kepala Dinas PMD Kab. Indragiri Hulu, Camat Kelayang, Direktur BUMDes Bongkal Emas, dan Tokoh Masyarakat Desa Bongkal Malang. Adapun teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yakni wawancara dan dokumentasi. Serta teknik analisa data dilakukan dengan melakukan analisis terhadap data yang didapatkan dari hasil wawancara dan sekaligus juga menganalisis dokumen yang terkait dengan topik penelitian dan dilakukan secara terus menerus sampai tuntas. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa kebijakan mengenai pengelolaan aset desa sudah dituangkan dalam dokumen perencanaan seperti RPJMDes 2020-2026 dan RKPDes Desa Bongkal Malang Tahun 2020 dan 2021, namun kenyataannya rencana pengelolaan aset desa untuk aset desa seperti tanah kas desa dan pasar desa, batal ditetapkan dalam APBDes Desa Bongkal Malang Tahun 2020 dan 2021, dikarenakan Pemerintah Desa Bongkal Malang ingin merealisasikan program pembangunan lain yang lebih prioritas dibandingkan harus mengurusi pengelolaan aset desa tersebut, dan juga Pemerintah Desa Bongkal Malang menegaskan komitmennya bahwa masih belum ada niatan dan rencana untuk melakukan pengelolaan aset desa tersebut.
A comparative study between 0.5% ropivacaine with 50 mcg of dexmedetomidine and 0.5% ropivacaine with 8 mg of dexamethasone for ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block – A randomized controlled study
Authors: Narasimhan MK  , Renganathan T  , Muralidaran S  , Rajaram Jayaraman
Published: April 2024

Background: Peripheral nerve block analgesia is augmented using dexamethasone with perineural local anesthesia.
Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to assess and compare the effects of dexmedetomidine and dexamethasone on the onset and duration of the sensory and motor block when added to 0.5% ropivacaine for the supraclavicular brachial plexus block.
Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted at the Department of Orthopedics, Government Stanley Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, for 6 months March 2021–September 2021). Eighty patients were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A (40 patients) received ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with 0.5% ropivacaine (30 mL)+dexmedetomidine 50 mcg (0.5 mL)+normal saline (1.5 mL). Group B (40 patients) received ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block with 0.5% ropivacaine (30 mL)+dexamethasone 8 mg (2 mL).
Results: The dexmedetomidine group had a significantly faster onset of sensory anesthesia (3.9 min) than the dexamethasone group (7.8 min), with a higher duration. The dexmedetomidine group also had a faster onset of motor anesthesia (4.9 min) and a longer duration of analgesia (892.3 min) compared to the dexamethasone group (538 min). The dexmedetomidine group also had a longer duration for rescue analgesia (906 min) than the dexamethasone group (727 min). Visual Analog scores at 10, 14 and 24th h were lower in the dexmedetomidine group than in the dexamethasone group, which is statistically significant (P<0.001).
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine has a faster onset, longer duration, longer analgesia, and prolonged duration for rescue analgesia compared to dexamethasone for ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block, with bradycardia and sedation as side effects.
A prospective study of post-operative complications and its management following open hemorrhoidectomy in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Amalesh Barman  , Niharika Lama  , Sisir Das  , Dibyajit Datta
Published: April 2024

Background: Surgery is the most effective treatment for hemorrhoids and is particularly recommended for prolapsing piles during defecation that may be reduced manually (Grade III) and irreducible hemorrhoids (Grade IV). Numerous methods have been proposed for surgical therapy, and most have similar success rates. But serious post-operative complications are rarer in open technique than stapled hemorrhoidopexy. Prompt identification of post-operative complications is necessary to avoid significant patient morbidity.
Aims and Objectives: The present study was done to access post-operative complications and their management, like post-operative pain, urinary retention, wound infection, bleeding, anal incontinence, and anal stenosis following open hemorrhoidectomy during the post-operative and follow-up periods.
Materials and Methods: This was an observational prospective study carried out at the Department of Surgery of Midnapore Medical College and Hospital from April 1, 2021, to September 30, 2022, with 100 patients.
Results: Out of 100 open hemorrhoidectomy cases, 74% belonged to the 31–50 year age group, 16% belonged to the 18–30 year age group, and only 10% were aged >50 years, respectively. The mean age of our study population was 40.62. Males were predominantly higher than females (79% vs. 21%). There was 7% of patients had bleeding per rectum, 22% had urinary retention, and 4% had wound infection after open hemorrhoidectomy. Mean and standard deviation value of post-operative pain score was found in post-operative day (POD-1) 6.15±0.85, POD-3- 4.25±0.99, POD-7- 2.43±1.40, after 28 days mean value pain score was 0.66±1.19, after 84 days mean pain score was 0.05±0.21. After 6 months of follow-up, there was no significant complication found.
Conclusion: We found that the important advantages of Milligan Morgan open hemorrhoidectomy achieve in terms of pain and wound healing, hospital stay. It was less expensive and safe, easy to perform with satisfactory results and in long run it did not have significant post-operative complication.
Avascular necrosis of skin flap post titanium mesh cranioplasty
Authors: Harsh Deo Pandey  , Avdhesh Shukla  , Vivek Kankane  , Avinash Sharma  , Sridham Sutradhar
Published: April 2024

Cranioplasty, the surgical restoration of cranial defects, has been a crucial procedure in neurosurgery for decades. Titanium mesh has emerged as a popular choice for cranial reconstruction due to biocompatibility and ability to confirm the patient’s unique cranial contours. While generally considered safe, titanium mesh cranioplasty is not without complications. This case report presents a challenging and atypical scenario of a patient who developed flap necrosis following titanium mesh cranioplasty. We aim to highlight the complexity of managing such cases and the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.
Effect of maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and gestational weight gain on birth weight and gestational age: An observational cross-sectional study
Authors: Mitra Shaon , Arnab Mondal
Published: April 2024

Background: Studies show that pre-pregnancy body mass index (ppBMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) are associated with birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA), and neonatal morbidities. Higher BW leads to metabolic syndrome. Preterm and low BW (LBW) have short and long-term morbidities. Monitoring ppBMI and GWG is necessary as these are modifiable risk factors for obesity. In this study, we revisited these findings in an Indian scenario.
Aims and Objectives: The primary objective is to study the association of BW and GA with ppBMI and GWG. The secondary objective is to study the association of ppBMI and GWG with cesarean section (CS), infant size, and early neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) requirement.
Materials and Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted over 1 year with 230 mothers, after Institutional Ethics Committee approval and informed consent. Data were collected using predesigned pro forma and analyzed by SPSS. Digital weighing scales, stadiometer, and fenton growth charts were used.
Results: We found a positive linear correlation of ppBMI and GWG with BW. Obesity and excess GWG were associated with higher BW, large for GA, CS, and NICU stay. Overweight had more CS. Underweight and less GWG had a greater risk of LBW, preterm, and NICU stay. Less GWG had more small for GA.
Conclusion: GWG and ppBMI are determinants of BW, GA, and neonatal morbidities. Further studies should focus on exercise and nutrition in pregnant and reproductive age women so that healthy babies with low-risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and neurodevelopmental disabilities are born.
Awareness about basic life support among undergraduate medical students before and after clinical exposure in a tertiary care hospital attached to a medical school in South India
Authors: Rashmi Raghavendra  , Srinivasan Rangalakshmi , Sowmya Madihalli Janardhan Iyengar  , Hiremathada Sahajananda  , G S Karthik , C Nishanth Chris , Ahmed Sharieff Sameer , T S Monisha
Published: April 2024

Background: Knowledge of basic life support (BLS) is one of the life-saving measures that every medical undergraduate student must possess.
Aims and Objectives: This study focused on knowing the level of knowledge in fresh medical undergraduate entrants (knowledge A [KA]) and 3rdyear students with clinical exposure but no BLS training (knowledge B [KB]). We also assessed the knowledge in 1st-year students (retention A [RA]) soon after foundation course and compared it with retained knowledge after 6 months (retention B [RB]).
Materials and Methods: This non-randomized multigroup cross-sectional study was done on medical undergraduate students in a tertiary care hospital attached to a medical school in South India. A validated questionnaire with 25 questions assessing knowledge of BLS was formulated and administered to 508 medical students.
Results: After analyzing data in SPSS V24, the mean scores in KA and KB were 11.03±4.33 and 13.95±5.43, respectively, with a P<0.001 which was significant. Although both the scores were >50%, clinical exposure had some effect on mean scores in medical undergraduates. Mean scores in RA and RB were 23.16±5.09 and 16.17±6.97, respectively, with P<0.001 which was significant, implying less retention of knowledge in RB 6 months after BLS training.
Conclusion: A foundation course introduced into the medical curriculum is essential and refresher courses should be conducted frequently to retain the knowledge of BLS as daily academic commitments can prevent retention of BLS knowledge.
Study of aerobic bacteriology profile of chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: Ujwala A Lokhande  , Suresh L Akulwar  , Annasaheb Lokhande
Published: April 2024

Background: Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) poses a recurring and persistent challenge in otolaryngology, stemming from diverse etiologies. Understanding the regional prevalence of the predominant etiological agent and its antimicrobial susceptibility is crucial for effective management.
Aims and Objectives: This study aims to determine the aerobic bacterial profile and prevalent bacterial etiology responsible for CSOM in our geographical setting.
Materials and Methods: Conducted over 2 years in the microbiology department of a tertiary care hospital, this study enrolled 504 clinically diagnosed otitis media cases. Participants, presenting with discharging ears at the E.N.T. department, met inclusion criteria of chronic otitis media with or without complications. Patients had not received treatment for at least 7 days before sample collection.
Results: Among the 402 CSOM samples, aerobes were isolated from 70.15%, anaerobes from 73.63%, and mixed isolates (aerobes+anaerobes) from 38.06%. Solely aerobes were present in 32.08% of samples, while solely anaerobes were found in 35.57%. Monomicrobials constituted 75.88%, and polymicrobials accounted for 24.11% of the samples.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study enhances our understanding of CSOM microbiology in our region, providing insights into organism prevalence, mixed infections, and antibiotic sensitivity. The findings offer clinicians valuable data for tailored treatment strategies, emphasizing the need for individualized scrutiny to address the dynamic nature of CSOM bacteriology over time.
Beyond cholesterol: Exploring serum ferritin’s and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein role in cardiovascular risk
Authors: Goda Veena Murthy , Pramodini Garikipati  , Jyothi Nunna
Published: April 2024

Background: Iron, a pivotal element in the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, exerts influence on inflammatory responses and exhibits a positive association with coronary heart disease. Elevated levels of the inflammatory marker, C-reactive protein (CRP), serve as a predictive risk factor for subsequent cardiac events.
Aims and Objectives: This study explores the interplay between cardiovascular disease risk factors and serum ferritin concerning CRP.
Materials and Methods: A cohort of 750 subjects (375 males and 375 females) was subjected to analysis. Elevated levels were defined as CRP >3.0 mg/L, serum ferritin >200 ng/mL, total cholesterol >200 mg/dL, and LDL-cholesterol >160 mg/dL. HDL cholesterol levels below 40 mg/dL were categorized as low.
Results: Within the low LDL-cholesterol group, no discernible correlation was observed between serum ferritin and high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) (odds ratio [OR] of 54.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.81–3.48, P<0.148). Conversely, a correlation was identified in the elevated LDL-cholesterol group (OR of 10.98, 95% CI=1.12–111.22, P<0.05). Furthermore, the introduction of an interaction term in the assessment of the correlation between elevated hsCRP and LDL-cholesterol reaffirmed a robust correlation between hsCRP and serum ferritin (P<0.005).
Conclusion: The oxidation of LDL-cholesterol by serum ferritin emerges as a potential contributor to inflammatory reactions and heightened hsCRP levels. Prospective studies are warranted to investigate whether interventions targeting the reduction of serum ferritin and CRP levels, through medical interventions and lifestyle modifications, could prove efficacious in preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Unraveling the anatomy of toe extensors: An aid to the clinical implications
Authors: Noor us Saba  , Pratibha Shakya  , Heena Singh  , Nikhil Aggarwal  , Punita Manik  , Navneet Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background: The extensor tendons of the foot are crucial for maintaining the intricate movements and stability of the foot and ankle complex. Understanding these variations is essential for health-care professionals involved in foot-related pathologies.
Aims and Objective: The study was conducted to identify and document variations in extensor tendons of the foot during routine dissection of human cadavers and to highlight their clinical significance.
Materials and Methods: This was an observational study conducted in the Department of Anatomy, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, India. Eight embalmed cadavers were examined, and the dorsum of the foot was dissected to explore the proximal and distal attachments of extensor muscles.
Results: We observed unilateral variations in extensor tendons of the feet of three limbs during routine dissection. First case showed a bifurcation of extensor hallucis longus, giving tendons to great toe as well as 2nd toe. Second case showed a variation in extensor digitorum longus tendon of the 4th toe giving lateral and medial slips along with its main tendon. The medial slip further gave medial and lateral divisions to merge distally with the long tendons of 3rd and 4th toe, respectively. The third case depicted the bifurcation of extensor hallucis brevis to give tendinous slips to great toe and 2nd toe, respectively.
Conclusion: Knowledge of these variations in extensor tendons of foot is crucial for accurate interpretation of diagnostic imaging, surgical planning, and optimizing treatment outcomes.
Exploring delusional parasitosis – a case series of three patients
Authors: Pathak Abhishek , Singh Manish , Rana Yogi , Yadav Vishesh , Singh Rahul
Published: April 2024

Delusional parasitosis is a psychiatric condition where individuals believe they are infested with parasites despite lacking medical evidence. This often leads to underestimation within psychiatric settings. Three patients with delusional parasitosis, aged above and below 50, presented with symptoms lasting from 1 to 6 months. Two had consulted specialists before, and one had primary delusional parasitosis while two had secondary due to schizophrenia and depression. Tablet Olanzapine showed partial response in one patient before admission. Tablet Risperidone resulted in complete symptom resolution within 10 days in two patients and within 1 month in one patient. Randomized controlled trials on antipsychotics for delusional parasitosis treatment are lacking. Further research is needed to assess treatment recommendations. Psychiatrists should report cases to provide clinical evidence supporting treatment decisions.
The bifurcation level and geometric anatomy of abdominal aorta – Does it matter in cervical malignancy? Experience from tertiary cancer center
Authors: Bera Anjan , Maji Avik , Debasmita Chakrabarti  , Shilpi Adhikary  , Debojyoti Manna  , Soham Gangopadhyay  , Srikrishna Mandal
Published: April 2024

Background: The course, the origin of the branch, and the division of the aorta may vary and the aortic bifurcation level and branching can be determined by arteriogram, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography (CT) scan, and cadaveric dissection.
Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to find the variation in aortic bifurcation levels in cervical malignancy patients who underwent radiotherapy.
Materials and Methods: Between January 2018 and December 2022 previously untreated, histologically proven squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix patients who received radiotherapy in our department were selected for this retrospective analysis. A planning contrast-enhanced CT scan with a 3 mm slice thickness was done in a CT simulator to delineate the target volume and aorta, common iliac vessels in all patients.
Results: 407 cervical carcinoma patients who received radiotherapy in Linear Accelerator (LINAC) were included in this analysis. The aortic bifurcation is most commonly situated at the level of the L3–L4 intervertebral disc in 290 (71.25%) cases with a range between the upper L3 body and the lower L5 body. The common iliac bifurcation was situated at the level of L5–S1 in 338 cases (83.04%) and S1 vertebral body in 63 cases (15.47%). The average length of the left common iliac artery was 4.58 cm and the right common iliac artery was 4.44 cm. The diameter of the aorta at the level of just before the bifurcation is 1.39 cm. The average diameter of the left common iliac artery and right common iliac artery were 1.21 cm and 1.13 cm, respectively. The right and left take-off angles (αR, αL) are 25.58° and 23.78°, respectively.
Conclusion: The knowledge regarding the anatomic variation of branching and bifurcation of the aorta of utmost importance for surgical procedures, interventional radiology procedures, and proper radiotherapy treatment planning. Acknowledging these anatomic variations may also reduce complications.
A prospective study on change of QTc interval with antipsychotic medications in patients of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorder
Authors: Shaswata Mandal  , Nitu Mallik  , Rudraprasad Acharya  , Manoj Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background: Sudden unexplained death in individuals with mental health problems was described in 1960 and a link with antipsychotic drugs was postulated over 40 years ago. Down the years, a clear relation between electrocardiography (ECG) abnormalities and antipsychotic use was observed with special emphasis on QT prolongation. Various factors modulate the risk of QT prolongation including gender, age, race, and drug choice. An evaluation of antipsychotic use-induced QT changes in Eastern Indian population is the dire need of the hour.
Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective are to study the effects of risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole on QT interval after a period of 4 weeks of usage in previously drug-naïve Eastern Indian psychotic patients.
Materials and Methods: A total of 78 drug-naïve patients fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria were randomly assigned to receive risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole after a baseline ECG. A repeat ECG after 4 weeks of drug usage was done and compared using standard protocols with respect to QT interval. Findings were tabulated and statistical analysis was done using SPSS 25.0 to test for statistical significance at P<0.05.
Results: Our study found significant rise in QT values after 4 weeks of using olanzapine and aripiprazole, but not with risperidone. However, none of the patients from either of the groups experienced any incidence of QT prolongation. Rise with olanzapine was significantly higher than that with risperidone.
Conclusion: Caution is suggested in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation or a high value of QT during prescribing olanzapine. Studies with larger sample size can be carried out to find genetic predisposition of Indian population to anti-psychotic induced QT interval rise/prolongation.
Efficacy and safety during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) under total intravenous anesthesia – propofol alone versus propofol supplemented with dexketa, a comparative study in medical college, Kolkata
Authors: Debasish Ghosh  , Debanjana Roy  , Debankita Das  , Anjana Ghosh Dastidar Bose  , Sukla Kundu
Published: April 2024

Background: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an invasive procedure and, hence, is distressing for awake patients, requiring an adequate level of anesthesia. Recent advancements have encouraged the use of monitored anesthesia care, that allows the patient to tolerate unpleasant experiences during procedures while maintaining cardio-respiratory function. Usually, propofol-based anesthesia is given in ERCP. The main aim of this study is to compare the effect of propofol alone and propofol with ketamine and dexmedetomidine on the hemodynamics during ERCP, recovery profile, and side effects (if any).
Aims and Objectives: (1) To compare efficacy in terms of hemodynamic stability and desaturation events. (2) Recovery and quality of recovery. (3) Pain score. (4) Incidence of post-operative nausea and vomiting.
Materials and Methods: This is a comparative double-blinded study. Adult patients from the age group of 18–70 years belonging to the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA-I) and ASA-II who had undergone ERCP under total intravenous anesthesia were taken and randomly assigned to either of the two groups. Both groups received 0.01 mg/kg glycopyrrolate, 0.1 mg/kg ondansetron, 0.05 mg/kg midazolam, 50 mcg fentanyl, and 40 mg hyoscine. Group A patients received 30 mg propofol as a bolus dose and then repeated according to requirements. Group B patients received 0.5 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine as a loading dose and 0.3 mcg/kg/h as a maintenance infusion dose. 30 mg propofol was given before negotiating scope and then 1 mL (1:1) mixture of propofol and ketamine was repeated according to requirements. Total propofol consumption, hemodynamics, quality of recovery, and side effects (if any) were recorded at regular intervals.
Results: The study showed significant cases in Group A had episodes of hypotension and apneic events, whereas there were very few hemodynamic instability and almost no apneic events in Group B patients. The requirement of propofol was much higher in Group A patients.
Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine when used along with propofol and ketamine in ERCP patients reduced the dose requirement of propofol and maintained hemodynamic stability without causing any apneic events.
Clinicopathological profile and its association with endoscopic findings in dyspeptic patients in a tertiary care hospital: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shetty Aarthik , Yeshavanth G  , Siddesh G  , Nikhil Kumar DG
Published: April 2024

Background: The prevalence of dyspepsia in general practice consultations ranges from 4% to 5%, whereas it accounts for approximately 20–40% of consultations in the field of gastroenterology.
Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out with the objective of estimating the percentage of Helicobacter pylori-infected people who havedyspepsia  and exploring the relationship between infection and clinical manifestation.
Materials and Methods: This was a hospital-based observational study conducted at a tertiary care teaching health-care facility from January 2023 to June 2023. All 50 patients with symptoms of dyspepsia were included in the study with the help of non-probability purposive sampling after their written and informed consent. A pre-designed and pre-tested structured pro forma was used to collect detailed history, clinical findings, and endoscopic findings from patients with dyspepsia. Gastritis and ulceration characteristics were observed by endoscopy, while histopathological examination (HPE) and rapid urease test (RUT) (for confirmation of H. pylori) were performed on endoscopy-obtained biopsy specimens.
Results: Mean age of the patients was 46.69±15.78 with 65.4% (n=34) being males. The sample was classified into cases positive for H. pylori (13; 25%) and cases negative for H. pylori (39; 75%), according to the RUT outcome, 21.20% (n=11) had a history of smoking, 25% (n=13) had Type II DM, and 25% of patients presented with upper abdominal bloating and epigastric pain. On endoscopy, the majority of patients revealed grade III (n=22, 42.30%) gastritis and no ulceration (n=29, 55.80%), with the maximum showing a chronic non-specific lesion (n=20, 38.5%) on HPE. Comorbidities (χ2=12.56, P=0.028), endoscopic findings (χ2=10.50, P=0.032), and ulcerations (χ2=20.02, P<0.001) were the significant findings associated with H. pylori infection.
Conclusion: The timely identification and expeditious management of H. pylori infection are imperative to mitigate the occurrence of severe complications.
Comparison of nalbuphine and morphine as intrathecal adjuvant to 0.5% bupivacaine for post-operative analgesia in lower abdominal surgeries – A randomized and control study
Authors: Subha Devanathan  , Ilango Ganesan  , Rangarajan R  , Divya Devanathan
Published: April 2024

Background: The use of a higher volume of 0.5% bupivacaine, however, is associated with hemodynamic instability. Adjuvants such as morphine and other opioids are added in with the local anesthetic to reduce this adverse effect and extend the duration of sensory block, hence extending the length of analgesia. However, opiates are associated with a high risk of respiratory depression and other side effects. Nalbuphine has been used to counteract these adverse effects. Thus, we decided to compare the analgesic effect of intrathecal (IT) nalbuphine with IT morphine.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare IT morphine with nalbuphine as adjuvant to a spinal anesthetic agent. The primary objective was to compare between the time of onset of sensory and motor blockade and the post-operative analgesic duration between the two adjuvants, while hemodynamic variables and side effects were studied as secondary variables.
Materials and Methods: This randomized controlled study was conducted after Ethical Committee approval for a period of 1 year on 100 patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. They were randomized into two groups to receive sub-arachnoid block: Group A: 3 mL of 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine and 0.2 mg morphine and Group B:3 mL of 0.5% Hyperbaric Bupivacaine and 0.5 mg nalbuphine. The following parameters were monitored – Height, Weight, blood pressure, American Society of Anesthesiologists grading, time of onset, maximum duration and regression of Motor and sensory blocks, and total duration of analgesia.
Results: The onset of sensory blockade was comparable in both groups while the onset of motor blockade was significantly longer in the morphine group (P≤0.001). The duration of analgesia in the morphine group was longer as compared to nalbuphine group and was statistically significant (P<0.05). The incidence of side effects was 26% in the morphine group and 6% in the nalbuphine group, which was statistically significant (P<0.05). Fourteen patients in the morphine group had pruritus and four patients in the nalbuphine group experienced nausea.
Conclusion: IT nalbuphine with 0.5% bupivacaine produces rapid onset of anesthesia and early post-operative analgesia with minimal side effects, but the total analgesic duration was more with IT morphine.
Clinical and radiological correlation of pulmonary manifestations in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Srilakshmi M Prabhu  , Ram Shenoy Basti
Published: April 2024

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis with various extra-articular manifestations, pulmonary being the most involved.
Aims and Objectives: This study aims to identify the radiological patterns in the lungs among patients with RA.
Materials and Methods: A total of 39 patients with RA were chosen randomly. They were examined and imaged by chest X-ray and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) thorax, and findings were analyzed.
Results: The mean age of patients was 53.9 and had a female preponderance of 74.4%. Among the 39 patients studied, 30 had no respiratory symptoms. The most common HRCT thorax findings were bronchiectasis and ground-glass opacities.
Conclusion: Radiological pulmonary manifestations of RA identified in HRCT imaging are wide and occur in the majority of clinically asymptomatic patients.
Prevalence and feto-maternal outcomes of subclinical hypothyroidism in pregnancy among mothers attending a tertiary care hospital of Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India
Authors: Das Tanmoy , Das Nilratan , Bhowmick Sohan , Biswas Arunava
Published: April 2024

Background: Pregnancy is a stressful test for the mother’s thyroid function. The frequency of hypothyroidism in pregnant women is high. However, there are no adequate studies to evaluate the adverse effects of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) during pregnancy.
Aims and Objectives: This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence of SCH in pregnancy and its adverse feto-maternal outcomes among mothers attending a tertiary care teaching hospital in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, India.
Materials and Methods: The present study was an institution-based observational descriptive study with a prospective longitudinal design conducted for 1 year among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of the study institution in the first trimester of their pregnancy. The sample size for the present study was calculated to be 200. A consecutive sampling technique was utilized. The enrolled women were evaluated for thyroid status by assessing serum thyroid stimulating hormone and free T4 level. All the enrolled mothers were kept under close follow-up and they were evaluated for the development of any antenatal, intranatal, and postnatal complications.
Results: The mean age was found to be 23.1±4.2 years, most of the women were nulliparous (60%). Of the women, 74% were euthyroid, while the prevalence of SCH was found to be 16%. On follow-up till the termination of their pregnancies, mothers suffering from SCH had statistically significantly higher incidence of maternal complications such as hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (P=0.001), abortion (P<0.001), postpartum hemorrhage (P=0.020) and also fetal adverse outcomes, such as intrauterine growth restriction (P=0.018), fetal premature birth (P=0.035), and low birth weight (P=0.004) when compared with euthyroid mothers.
Conclusion: The burden of SCH high in the study population, and it was significantly associated with a number of different maternal as well as fetal complications and adverse outcomes.