bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparative study of bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy: Experience in a tertiary care center
Authors: Sharda Bela , Malukani Kamal , Varma Amit V
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

A bone marrow examination involves the pathological analysis of samples from the bone marrow, which are obtained through bone marrow aspiration (BMA) and biopsy procedures. This examination is employed for the diagnosis of various hematological and nonhematological conditions. Both aspirate and biopsy samples are essential, offering a comprehensive bone marrow assessment.

Objectives:

In this study, we aim to compare the simultaneous evaluation of bone marrow aspirates and biopsies and to study diagnostic accuracy and concordance rate.

Materials and Methods:

This research was performed at the Department of Pathology, Shri Aurobindo Medical College, and Postgraduate Institute in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. The study was conducted from January 2019 to December 2019 and evaluated 200 patients. In 170 instances, bone marrow biopsy (BMB) and BMA procedures were conducted simultaneously, with 14 cases excluded due to issues like hemodilution or inadequate samples. Microscopic examinations were carried out on both aspirate slides and trephine biopsy sections, with the findings meticulously documented.

Results:

In the present research, the most prevalent clinical reason for performing a bone marrow examination was anemia (28.2%), closely followed by acute leukemias (21.9%). Among the 156 cases examined, BMA and biopsy led to a definitive diagnosis in 116 patients (74.3%), while biopsy alone diagnosed 27 cases (17.3%).

Conclusion:

While BMB continues to be the established benchmark for bone marrow analysis due to its heightened reliability and sensitivity, the combined use of both BMA and BMB enhances diagnostic yield significantly.
Influence of boot stud shapes and pitch surfaces on rugby players’ sprinting performance
Authors: Turiman Sharul Nizam , Johari Nasrul Hadi
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

In rugby, a player’s sprinting prowess emerges as a pivotal determinant for bridging the gap to opponents and eluding their pursuit. Hence, a proper rugby boot assumes paramount importance in enhancing sprinting capabilities. However, the tropical climate conditions in Malaysia, with high temperatures, humidity and heavy rainfall, possess the potential to rapidly degrade rugby pitch conditions, thereby exerting a pronounced impact on sprinting performance.

Aims:

This study aims to investigate the influence of different boot studs and pitch surfaces on the sprinting performance of junior rugby players.

Methods:

A cohort of 36 rugby players completed the sprinting tests with different boot stud shapes, i.e. cone, triangular and blade shapes, on normal, puddle and muddy surfaces. Fully automated timing gates were placed at the 0 m and 40 m mark along the track. Data obtained from the experiments were recorded for the statistical analysis using the repeated-measure analysis of variance.

Results:

The results revealed that the players’ sprinting performance declined by an average of 1.26% on the puddle pitch surface and by 16.51% on the muddy pitch surface using all types of boots. It was also discovered that the sprinting performance of players in the overweight and obese categories dropped by an average of 8.5% and 12.73% on all types of pitch surfaces, respectively. On muddy pitch surfaces, players in all positions and body mass index categories who used boots with cone and triangle studs had better sprinting performance when compared to blade studs.

Conclusions:

In essence, this study demonstrated the sprinting evaluation framework on various pitch conditions. Furthermore, it imparts invaluable technical insights to rugby players and coaches in selecting appropriate boots, particularly within Malaysia’s distinctive climatic and pitch conditions.
Nutrition management for poor oral intake in patients with gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lee Xin Yue , Ismail Munirah
Published: December 2023

Patients with gastroesophageal (GE) junction adenocarcinoma experienced the symptoms such as poor appetite, dysphagia and early satiety, impacting dietary intake leading to insufficient protein–energy intake. A 63-year-old Malay male, diagnosed with GE junction adenocarcinoma and anaemia, was admitted for chemotherapy and referred to a dietician to enhance oral intake and nutritional status. Experiencing unintentional weight loss over 3 months due to progressive dysphagia and reduced appetite, the patient was underweight. Low levels of albumin and creatinine indicated inadequate oral intake, an acute-phase response to cancer and muscle loss, respectively. Solely relying on oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) for nourishment, the estimated energy and protein intake were only 47.1% and 47.6% (0.57 g/kg body weight), respectively, in relation to requirements. A full liquid diet was prescribed, and nutrition counselling focused on strategies to increase protein–energy intake, stressing its importance in addressing the ongoing catabolic state. During follow-up, the patient showed improved energy and protein intake, reaching 78% and 81%, respectively, meeting requirements.
A mini-review of robotic applications for lower-limb rehabilitation in Malaysia
Authors: Rahman Rabiatul Adawiah Abdul , Shamsuddin Syamimi
Published: December 2023

In recent years, advancements in robotic technology have found diverse applications in providing healthcare support to individuals, spanning inpatient care, hospital outpatient services and community settings. The rapid progress in the development of gait-training robots, including exoskeletons and other lower-limb robotic devices, holds significant promise for patients dealing with motor and gait dysfunction resulting from conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and cerebral palsy. This mini-review offers a short summary and assessment of the latest information on current applications of robotics in lower-limb rehabilitation in Malaysia. The review not only summarises recent developments but also identifies gaps in existing studies, shedding light on areas that require further exploration. In addition, the review provides valuable suggestions for future research efforts. By addressing these knowledge gaps, the field of robotic-assisted lower-limb rehabilitation in Malaysia can evolve, offering patients more efficient, advanced and readily accessible rehabilitation options. Collaborative efforts between researchers and professionals, focussing on both technological innovations and clinical aspects, have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life of the affected community in Malaysia and worldwide.
Effects of proprioceptive training using BOSU® balance trainer on core strength and static balance in young competitive rhythmic gymnasts
Authors: Yee Claudia Ng Jia , Ler Hui Yin , Yunliang Zhang
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The study aimed to examine the effects of eight weeks of proprioceptive training using a BOSU® balance trainer on core strength and static balance in young rhythmic gymnasts.

Methods:

Twenty-three young competitive female rhythmic gymnasts, (age: 9.7 ± 1.9 yrs; weight; 26.1 ± 6.5 kg; height: 131.2 ± 10.9 cm; years of experience in RG: 3.5 ± 1.7) were assigned into an experimental group (EG, n = 12) and a control group (CG, n = 11). Both groups underwent a series of tests included the side bridge test, the stork stand balance test, and the rhythmic gymnastics balance test before and after the experimental intervention. All participants engaged in regular rhythmic gymnastics training throughout the intervention period with EG supplemented with BOSU® balance trainer proprioceptive training. The intervention programme consisted of six sets of exercises that focused on improving core strength and static balance. Training volume was kept consistent throughout the experiment, with each exercise performed for 30 s followed by a 45-s rest in 2 sets, 3 times a week.

Results:

Results showed that EG improved core strength significantly for right (P < 0.001) and left (P = 0.038) sides. However, there was no significant difference found in static balance (Stork Stand Balance Test and Rhythmic Gymnastics Balance Test) between EG and CG.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that proprioceptive training using BOSU® balance trainer implemented for 8 weeks on young competitive rhythmic gymnasts improved core strength but not in static balance
Descriptive study on beliefs, attitudes and behaviour of Malaysian elite athletes towards doping
Authors: Kumar Nishel , Cheong Jadeera Phaik Geok , Razman Rizal
Published: December 2023

Background:

Little is known about the beliefs, attitudes and practices of Malaysian elite athletes towards doping, despite a consistent number of positive doping cases, some of which involve high-profile Malaysian athletes. In the Malaysian context, only studies on Malaysian student–athletes and nutritional supplement intake amongst Malaysian elite athletes have been carried out.

Aims:

As such, this study aimed to explore doping beliefs, attitudes and behaviour of Malaysian elite athletes, using a survey developed by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Methods:

The survey, which was designed based on the Sport Drug Control Model for anti-doping organisations, contained 52 questions. Participants of the survey were 220 athletes (137 males and 83 females) with ages ranging between 15 and 45 years.

Results:

The results showed that 85% of Malaysian athletes did not intend to use performance-enhancing substances (PESs) even though it could provide an added advantage. It was also revealed that a large percentage of Malaysian elite athletes (89%) had never considered using PES, with a small percentage of athletes (2%) admitting that they had used PES knowingly throughout their sporting career. As for the intention to dope, 90% of the athletes felt confident that they could refuse the use of banned substances and overcome any pressure to consume.

Conclusions:

The findings will enable the mapping of the most suitable approach towards educating athletes about the effects of doping. The exploration is in alignment with the formation of the Anti-Doping Agency of Malaysia in 2007, whose mission was to implement anti-doping rules and create strategies to improve awareness and education amongst athletes and coaches about substance abuse in sports. Down the road from education and mutual trust, it is possible to establish cleaner sports and zero doping in Malaysia.
Students’ Perception of Interactive Progressive Drawing Using a Graphic Tablet in Histology Education: A Mixed-Method Evaluation Study
Authors: Sreenivasan Srividya
Published: December 2023

Background:

It is important that relevant diagrams that are clear and visible are drawn by the teacher of histology for a better understanding of the subject. It is also desirable that the student see the buildup of the diagram. To achieve the same in an electronic format, a graphic tablet was used for interactive progressive drawing (IPD) in histology education.

Aim and Objective:

To assess students’ perception of usefulness and effectiveness of IPD, in histology education.

Methodology:

Students were taught histology by IPD, using a graphic tablet in a classroom setting. Their perception about the method of teaching and the quality of the diagrams was obtained by an online questionnaire having open-ended and closed-ended questions. The mean and standard deviation of ratings on the Likert scale about student perception were calculated. The percentage of students who gave a rating of 4 out of 5 or above for the questions was measured as an indicator of satisfaction of the students. The answers to the open-ended questions were categorized and analyzed by the grounded theory approach.

Results:

A total of 137 (54.8%) students responded to the questionnaire. Seventy-eight percent of students preferred the diagrams drawn such over textbook illustrations and perceived the innovation to be helpful in improving basic understanding on a scale of 4/5 or above.

Conclusion:

Teaching histology by IPD using a graphic tablet was perceived by students to be better than teaching using a Power Point presentation.
The conundrum of National Exit Test in India
Authors: Vishnu B.
Published: December 2023

National Exit Test (NExT) is a common medical licentiate examination and postgraduate (PG) examination about to be implemented in the country for the first time, so it is important to discuss the advantages, concerns and fear about the exam among the students. All these years’ medical qualifying exams were through descriptive theory and practical examination through Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) and separate PG entrance examination after internship. Standardizing the medical examination throughout the country will ensure uniform quality of medical graduates and by merging the qualifying examination and PG examination will narrow down the gap reducing the time taken for the each graduate to enter specialty are the main advantages of the NExT. There are various concerns about competitive part of NExT like CBME curriculum and the medical teachers training suitability for teaching PG competitive exams. Core competencies of the CBME curriculum focuses on ‘Must Know’ and the medical education emphasizes the teachers to educate the students on core competencies. For every advantage there are more concerns and fear about the NExT exam among the students. Like any exam NExT has its own merits and drawback when implemented for the first time, by identifying the concerns and correcting them will develop competent medical graduates uniform throughout the country.
Sonographic Evaluation of Deep Vein Thrombosis in Hospitalized Neurosurgical Trauma Patients in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Efidi R , Rimande J , Agunloye A , Ogunseyinde A , Akinola R , Ogbole G
Published: December 2023

Background:

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized trauma patients. Ultrasonography (US) has replaced venography as the initial diagnostic tool for DVT.

Aims:

The study aimed to determine the incidence of lower limb DVT in hospitalized neurosurgical trauma patients in hospitalized neurosurgical patients. It also aimed to determine the effect of combined thrombo-prophylaxis on the incidence of lower limb deep DVT relative to a single regimen.

Patients and Methods:

This was a prospective study of 154 adult neurotrauma patients who consecutively had lower limb Doppler ultrasound, initially within 72 hours of admissions and subsequently weekly or when DVT was suspected for the first 3 weeks of admission. The study spanned a 12-month period. The data generated were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences software version 20, Chicago IL. Inc. Chi-square test was used to compare the outcome (DVT incidence) between single and combined prophylaxis groups.

Results:

The study participants consisted of 116 (75.3%) and 38 (24.7%) cases of head and spine injuries, respectively, with a mean age of 38.8 ± 6.3 years and 85.1% being males. A total of four cases of DVT were detected during the study period, with the majority of the cases (3) detected within the first week of admission, giving an incidence of 2.6%. All four cases of DVT were detected in patients on single thrombo-prophylaxis (4/55 = 7.3%), while none was found in those on a combined regimen (0/34, P = 0.046).

Conclusion:

Most cases of DVT developed in the first week of hospitalization. Combined thrombo-prophylaxis was more effective than single regimen at reducing rate of DVT in neurosurgical trauma patients. Routine Doppler ultrasound DVT surveillance should be part of the management protocol for neurosurgical trauma patients on admission to increase DVT detection and prevent possible fatal pulmonary embolism.
Micro-CT Study on the Supplementary Effect of XP-Endo Finisher R after Endodontic Retreatment with Mtwo-R
Authors: Tsenova-Ilieva I , Dogandzhiyska V , Raykovska M , Karova E
Published: December 2023

Background:

During the course of a non-surgical orthograde endodontic retreatment, supplementary instrumentation is usually required for better removal of root canal filling material.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of XP-Endo Finisher R in endodontic retreatment of oval root canals.

Materials and Methods:

The study was performed on extracted mandibular incisors preliminary cut at the cementoenamel junction. The root canals of 12 extracted lower central incisors were initially shaped with the rotary nickel–titanium system XP-Endo Shaper (30/.04) and filled with continuous waves of condensation. Root canal retreatment was performed with the МTwo Retreatment – R1 (15/.05) and R2 (25/.05) files, followed by the XP-Endo Finisher R (30/.00). Three micro-computed tomography scans were performed during the course of the experiment: 1) after the filling of the root canals, 2) after the first retreatment procedures, and 3) after the supplementary shaping. Kolmogorov–Smirnov test for normality and Friedman and Kruskal–Wallis tests for comparison of several independent samples.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in the percentage of removed obturation material in the different parts of the root canal after the use of Mtwo-R (P = 0.649) and XP-Endo Finisher R (P = 0.934). The additional instrumentation with XP-FR reduced the percentage of the remaining root canal filling insignificantly (P = 0.190).

Conclusions:

The combined action of Mtwo-R retreatment files and XP-Endo Finisher R resulted in significant reduction of the amount of root canal filling material. Nevertheless, none of the examined rotary systems guaranteed its complete removal.
Prognostic Effect of Preoperative Inflammatory Markers on Morbidity and Overall Survival in Pancreatic Adenocarsinoma
Authors: Çaparlar MA , Durhan A , Süleymanov M , Binarbaşı C , Koşmaz K
Published: December 2023

Background/Aim:

His study aimed to evaluate the availability of common diagnostic tests and biochemical markers in predicting poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC). The primary outcome measure was to identify predictive prognostic factors. The secondary outcome measure was to compare predictive measures in patients who survived or did not survive in the follow-up period.

Materials and Methods:

Medical data of 51 patients were obtained who underwent resection surgery for PAC between January 2016 and May 2022. There were two groups according to the mortality in the follow-up period group general mortality positive (GMP; n = 29) and group general mortality negative (GMN; n = 22). Stage IIb was the most common stage in subgroups.

Results:

Preoperative diagnostic tests revealed that aspartate aminotransferase (AST) level, De Ritis ratio (DRR), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cancer antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9), immature granulocyte (IG) count, and IG ratio (IG%) are higher, and hemoglobin (Hgb) levels are lower in the GMP group (P < 0.05). In univariate analysis, seven variables, including AST ≥20.5 (P = 0.001), DRR ≥1.05 (P ≤ 0.001), CEA ≥3.32 (P = 0.02), IG count ≥0.06 (P < 0.01), Hgb ≤11.75 (P = 0.01), poor differentiation (P < 0.001) and existence of life-threatening complication (P < 0.01) were identified. In multivariate analysis, only DRR (≥1.05;100% specificity and 72% sensitivity) and poor differentiation (P = 0.019) were found to be independent prognostic factors for overall survival. The median overall survival of patients with the DRR ≥1.05 and poor tumor differentiation was lower, and the mortality rate was higher than the patients with DRR and without poor tumor differentiation (10.65 ± 3.11 months vs. 61.86 ± 5.36 months and 100% vs. 26.7%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Pretreatment high DRR, high IG counts and IG%, and poor differentiation of the tumor might be used as independent predictors of poor prognosis and mortality in patients with PAC.
Demographics and Clinical Characteristics of Burn Injuries in Nigeria: A Tertiary Hospital Cohort
Authors: Abubakar AI , Okpechi SC , Euguagie OO , Ikpambese AA
Published: December 2023

Background:

Burn injuries account for 4.8% of trauma deaths in Nigeria and annually for 20,000 deaths.

Aim:

This study was to catalogue the demographics of patient who presented at a referral center in Nigeria.

Patients and Methods:

In a retrospective study, we reviewed the records of all burn patients who presented over a 36-month period (January 2018 to December 2020). The clinical and demographic data was extracted using a self-designed questionnaire. Information obtained included biodata, etiology, time of presentation, first aid used, TBSA, length of hospital stay (LOHS), and outcome which was analyzed with SPSS version 28.

Results:

A total of 112 burn patients presented at our facility, 87 male and 25 female (m: f = 3.5:1). Forty-four percent were children 10 years old and below. Though scalding with hot liquids was the commonest cause of injury in children, flame burn was the commonest etiology (57.1%). Inhalational injuries occurred in 14.2%. Raw eggs and pap were used as first aid by 23%. Most patients were discharged home, and 19.6% died.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of burn injuries remains high in developing countries. Most causes of burns are preventable. Dangerous traditional practices add to patient morbidity. Education on effective prevention strategies is important in reducing morbidity and mortality.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Inflammatory, Metabolic, and Liver-Related Indexes and Blood Pressure Dipping Ratios: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Güven AT
Published: December 2023

Background:

Nighttime blood pressure dipping is a normal physiologic phenomenon. Lack of dipping is associated with increased cardiovascular disease; thus, non-dipping patients are candidates for more strict risk reduction strategies. Dipping presence can be identified using ambulatory blood pressure measurement (ABPM). Recent findings indicate that inflammatory, metabolic, and liver-related indices may have a role in predicting dipping presence dichotomously.

Aim:

To investigate whether dipping ratios correlate with that inflammatory, metabolic, and liver-related indices.

Materials and Methods:

Hypertensive patients with ABPM recordings were retrospectively collected. Patient characteristics, co-morbidities, medications, laboratory results, and ABPM results were analyzed. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), triglyceride-glucose index (TyG), triglyceride-to-HDL ratio (TG/HDL), total cholesterol-to-HDL ratio (TC/HDL), AST-to-ALT ratio (AST/ALT), fibrosis-4 (FIB-4), and AST-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) were calculated. Differences and correlations were analyzed between indices, dipping patterns, and ratios.

Results:

Ninety-three patients were included in the study. Forty-five had either a systolic or diastolic dipping pattern. NLR, PLR, TG/HDL, and TC/HDL indices correlated negatively with dipping ratios. AST/ALT was higher in systolic dippers (1.04 vs 0.88, P = 0.03). However, no difference was observed between NLR, PLR, TyG, TG/HDL, TC/HDL, FIB-4, and APRI among different dipping presences.

Conclusion:

This study showed for the first time that there was a negative correlation between inflammatory and metabolic indices and dipping ratios.
Does the Severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms Vary Due to Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies and Anemia?
Authors: Deveci Şule , Matur Zeliha
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Purpose:

The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of serum vitamin, electrolyte levels, and anemia on carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) symptoms and findings.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 166 patients with CTS and 80 healthy controls. The patients with CTS were further divided into two groups: those with positive (EP+) and negative (EP−) electrophysiology findings. The participants completed the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) to assess their symptoms, and electromyography investigations were performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Results:

The mean age of individuals in the EP+ group was older, and the body mass index scores were greater than those of other groups. The hemoglobin (Hb) level was significantly lower in the EP+ group than in the EP− group (P = 0.001). Ferritin levels were substantially lower in both the EP+ and the EP− groups compared with the control group (P = 0.045 and P = 0.017, respectively). However, no correlation was found between Hb and ferritin levels and BCTQ scores. The groups had no significant differences in Vitamin D, B12, calcium, and magnesium levels. No relationship was found between the severity of CTS symptoms and deficiencies in Vitamins D and B12.

Conclusions:

Based on this study, anemia and lower levels of ferritin were common in patients with CTS, but they did not directly contribute to the severity of symptoms; the significance of this finding concerning CTS is unclear. However, considering the limited number of studies suggesting that iron deficiency reduces axonal excitability and leads to the slowing of nerve conduction velocities, iron deficiency may facilitate the development of CTS.
Tremor, Gait, and Balance Disorders in Essential Tremor and the Efficacy of Atenolol
Authors: Kisabay A. K. Ayşin , Durmaz Gülsüm Saruhan , Ataç Ceyla , Duksal Tarik , Gökçay Figen , Çelebisoy Neşe
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

To assess gait and balance in patients with essential tremor (ET), which is the most common tremor disorder characterized by bilateral action tremor of the hands with possible involvement of further tremor locations and to test the efficacy of atenolol on tremor and gait and balance.

Methods:

In this prospective study, gait and balance were evaluated by static posturography in addition to International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (ICARS) in 22 ET patients without any additional neurologic signs on examination. Tremor severity was assessed by The Essential Tremor Rating Assessment Scale (TETRAS). The efficacy of atenolol 100 mg/day both on tremor and gait and balance was investigated. Posturographic recordings were performed in gender, age-, and height-matched healthy volunteers who constituted the control group.

Results:

The mean center of gravity sway velocity of the ET patients recorded on firm and foam surfaces with eyes open and closed was not significantly different from the healthy controls but sway velocity on tandem stance was significantly increased (P = 0.032). Gait speed (P = 0.015) was decreased and step width was increased (P = 0.001). An improvement in TETRAS scores was recorded with atenolol treatment (P = 0.046). An improvement not reaching statistical significance was present in ICARS scores (P = 0.059). However, posturographic parameters did not change significantly (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Increased sway velocity on tandem stance, decreased gait speed and increased step width are consistent with midline cerebellar dysfunction in ET patients with no obvious gait and balance deficits on clinical examination. Atenolol seems to be effective on tremor but does not cause a significant improvement in gait and balance deficits.
Investigation of Penicillin-induced Epilepsy Model in Female Rats with Different estrous Cycles by ECoG Method
Authors: Cetinkaya Ayhan , Kara Sinem , Bozat Bihter Gokce , Yabalak Ahmet
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim:

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures resulting from an imbalance in neuronal excitation. It is known that there is a tendency for seizures to cluster in both men and women at certain periods. This study aims to compare electrocorticogram (ECoG) recordings in an experimentally induced epilepsy model using penicillin, conducted at different estrous cycles of female rats.

Subjects and Methods:

Prior to commencing the epilepsy experiments, vaginal smears were collected from the animals every morning for 1 week, at the same time each day, for cytological examination. After confirming that the estrous cycles (proestrus, estrous stage, metestrus, and diestrus) of the animals were normal and healthy, the experiment was initiated. Additionally, H and E staining was performed on the ovaries of the rats sacrificed at the end of the experiment to validate the estrous cycle phases. A total of 32 adult female Wistar rats were divided into four groups (proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus), each consisting of eight rats. The penicillin-induced epilepsy model involved anesthetizing the rats with 1.25 mg/kg urethane intraperitoneally, followed by the injection of penicillin G (500 IU, 2.5 μL, i.c.) into the cortex region through a skull opening. ECoG recordings were conducted using PowerLab analysis for 180 min. Statistical analysis of the results was performed using the SPSS program version 22 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent samples t-test were employed for groups with normally distributed data, while the Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney U-test were used for groups with nonnormally distributed data. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

Histological evaluation confirmed that vaginal smears and ovarian histopathology were consistent with each other, validating the data pertaining to the groups. In the ECoG recording results, the spike-wave frequency between 6 and 10 min was higher in the metestrus group compared to the proestrus (P = 0.004), estrus (P = 0.046), and diestrus (P = 0.025) groups. No significant differences were observed among the groups in terms of spike-wave amplitude and latency.

Conclusion:

Our study using a penicillin-induced epilepsy model in female Wistar rats demonstrated that the spike-wave frequency was highest during the metestrus phase. This finding provides valuable insights for future studies aiming to understand and mitigate the sensitivity observed during the metestrus phase, which is characterized by rapid progesterone withdrawal.
Whitehead Hemorrhoidectomy: Is It Time for a Second Look?
Authors: Reiti Andrian , Sidak Volodymyr , Poylin Vitaliy
Published: December 2023

Background:

Hemorrhoidal problems are common causes of patient complaints. Most of the hemorrhoid-related issues can be managed conservatively; however, some patients with grade III and IV hemorrhoids are referred for surgical management. Several techniques including classic hemorrhoidectomy and dearterialization with or without Doppler guidance have been described. Although not as frequently performed, the Whitehead procedure remains occasionally utilized.

Objectives:

The goal of this study is to assess the short- and long-term outcomes of the Whitehead procedure in comparison to the Milligan–Morgan procedure.

Design:

Retrospective review.

Patients and Methods:

A review of all patients undergoing surgical treatment for grade III and IV hemorrhoids at 7th city hospital in Kyiv, Ukraine, between 2015 and 2021 was conducted. The rates of perioperative complications of the Whitehead procedures and overall outcomes were compared to the Milligan–Morgan techniques.

Main Outcome Measures:

Primary outcome included postoperative pain and secondary outcomes included short- and long-term postoperative complications.

Sample Size:

Three hundred and twenty-three patients were included in the study.

Results:

One hundred and seventy-three patients underwent the Whitehead procedure and 140 patients underwent the Milligan–Morgan procedure. There was no difference in age, sex, and comorbidities between the groups. There were no statistical differences between short-term complications, but the Whitehead group experienced less pain throughout the 14 days after surgery. All the patients were seen and examined 6 months after surgery; the patients who underwent the Whitehead procedure showed less prolapse when compared to those in the Milligan–Morgan group without increase in other complications.

Conclusions:

Whitehead hemorrhoidectomy is safe and shows less pain during recovery without remarkable increase in long-term complications.

Limitations:

This was a retrospective review and non-validated instruments were used in surveys.

Conflict of Interest:

The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Skew characteristic polynomial of graphs and embedded graphs
Authors: Dogra R. , Lando S.
Published: December 2023

We introduce a new one-variable polynomial invariant of graphs, which we call
the skew characteristic polynomial. For an oriented simple graph, this is just
the characteristic polynomial of its anti-symmetric adjacency matrix. For
nonoriented simple graphs the definition is different, but for a certain class
of graphs (namely, for intersection graphs of chord diagrams), it gives the
same answer if we endow such a graph with an orientation induced by the chord
diagram. We prove that this invariant satisfies Vassiliev's $4$-term relations
and determines therefore a finite type knot invariant. We investigate the
behaviour of the polynomial with respect to the Hopf algebra structure on the
space of graphs and show that it takes a constant value on any primitive
element in this Hopf algebra. We also provide a two-variable extension of the
skew characteristic polynomial to embedded graphs and delta-matroids. The
$4$-term relations for the extended polynomial prove that it determines a
finite type invariant of multicomponent links.
Kilis ve Gaziantep İllerinde Bocce ve Dart Sporu ile Uğraşan Sporcuların Katılım Güdüsü ve Başarı Algılarının İncelenmesi
Authors: AKDAĞ Mehmet , TÜRKMEN Mutlu
Published: December 2023

Bu araştırma, Türkiye'nin Kilis ve Gaziantep illerinde yaşayan, 10-15 yaş aralığındaki Bocce ve Dart sporcularının katılım güdüsü ve başarı algılarını incelemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırmanın kapsamında, 2021-2022 eğitim-öğretim yılında eğitim alan ve müsabakalara katılan 201 erkek ve bayan sporcu bulunmaktadır. Araştırma, sporcuların katılım güdüleri ve başarı algılarını etkileyen faktörleri çeşitli değişkenler ışığında SPSS 22 programı kullanarak analiz etmiştir. Veri toplama yöntemleri olarak Spora Katılım Güdüsü Ölçeği, Başarı Algısı Envanteri (Çocuk Versiyonu) ve demografik bilgi formu kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre, sporcuların katılım güdüsü ve başarı algıları cinsiyet, müsabaka türü ve müsabakalarda derece alma durumuna göre anlamlı bir farklılık göstermemiştir (p>0,05). Bununla birlikte, katılım güdüsü, seçilen spor branşına, ikamet yerine, sporla uğraşma süresine ve yaş gruplarına göre anlamlı farklılıklar göstermiştir (p
Benarkah Hamba Ketiga Malas dan Jahat?
Authors: Siburian Carel
Published: December 2023

Pembacaan “klasik” terhadap Matius 25:14-30 selalu mengarah pada kesimpulan bahwa hamba ketiga adalah hamba yang tidak setia kepada tuannya dan pada apa yang dipercayakan tuannya kepadanya. “Talenta” selalu dianggap sebagai “karunia” yang diberikan oleh Tuhan yang harus selalu dikembangkan oleh manusia. Pembacaan tersebut juga “seolah” meniadakan keberatan yang justru muncul dalam teks, saat hamba ketiga memberi perlawanan kepada sang tuan. Namun benarkah perumpamaan ini menunjukkan bahwa hamba ketiga adalah hamba yang malas dan jahat, dan benarkah “hanya” berbicara mengenai karunia Allah? Melalui tulisan ini akan disampaikan pembacaan kritis-alternatif atas Matius 25:14-30. Dengan metode pendekatan naratif, setidaknya ada empat tawaran pembacaan terhadap perumpamaan ini, yaitu (1) Yesus sedang/adalah melakoni hamba ketiga; (2) hamba ketiga adalah hamba yang baik; (3) perumpamaan ini bukanlah tentang karunia; dan adanya kemungkinan bahwa (4) Injil Matius sedang “menyembunyikan” sesuatu; bahwa jawaban atas perumpamaan dalam Matius 25:14-30 justru ada pada Matius 25:31-46. Itulah sebabnya perumpamaan talenta harus dibaca bersama dengan kisah penghakiman terakhir.
YHWH Ekhad dalam Ulangan 6:4 sebagai Dasar Panggilan Pengajaran Monoteis
Authors: Boiliu Noh Ibrahim
Published: December 2023

Permasalahan Ulangan 6:4 mencakup kredo monoteistik Shema Yisrael, seringkali diartikan hanya dalam konteks dogmatika monoteistik. Ulangan 6:4 tidak terbatas pada kerangka dogmatika monoteistik, tetapi juga memiliki dimensi edukatif hukum yang membentuk identitas moral Israel. Metode yang digunakan dalam penulisan artikel ini adalah metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan analisis dokumen. Artikel ini merupakan upaya untuk membangun konsep bahwa di dalam pengajaran tentang monoteis termaktub di dalamnya upaya pembentukan moral dan identitas orang percaya. Artikel ini menawarkan pemikiran bahwa, panggilan “dengarlah, hai orang Israel” mencerminkan sebuah retorika yang terulang dalam Ulangan, dan kata kerja imperatif “mendengar” dianggap sebagai panggilan fundamental dogmatis monoteistik. Respons Israel terhadap panggilan ini dianggap krusial, karena mendengarkan Allah diindikasikan dengan tetap setia pada dogma monoteistik dan mengasihi Allah sepenuh hati. Panggilan untuk mendengar disampaikan kepada generasi baru Israel. Pentingnya mendengar dan merespons panggilan ini diilustrasikan melalui frasa “Shema Israel,” yang meminta Israel untuk mengakui bahwa Yahweh adalah Esa. Yahwe Ekhad memiliki peran edukatif hukum dalam membentuk dan mengafirmasi identitas moral Israel, dengan menekankan pentingnya mengajarkan dan melakukan hukum sebagai respons terhadap panggilan mendengar. Hubungan antara monoteisme, pendidikan agama, dan identitas moral dalam konteks Ulangan 6:4, menekankan pentingnya mendengar dan merespons panggilan Allah sebagai landasan untuk ketaatan dan penghayatan identitas monoteistik Israel.
Penerapan Strategi Problem Based Learning dengan Wawasan Kristen Alkitabiah untuk Memotivasi Keaktifan Siswa
Authors: Mallappa Fery , Martha Kurniawati
Published: December 2023

Keaktifan siswa menjadi salah satu faktor utama penentu keberhasilan pembelajaran. Strategi belajar yang digunakan guru akan sangat menentukan keaktifan siswa di kelas. Kesalahan dalam memilih strategi pembelajaran akan membuat siswa menjadi pasif di kelas. Sikap siswa yang pasif akan membuat siswa tidak dapat belajar dengan maksimal. Oleh karena itu, penting bagi guru untuk merancang pembelajaran yang dapat memfasilitasi siswa untuk terlibat aktif dalam setiap proses pembelajaran. Tidak hanya sampai di situ, penting bagi setiap pendidik Kristen untuk merancang pembelajaran yang aktif dan bermakna agar para siswa juga mendapatkan kesempatan mengagumi Allah dalam proses pembelajaran di kelas. Hal tersebut dapat dicapai dengan menerapkan strategi pembelajaran Problem Based Learning dengan wawasan Kristen Alkitabiah karena tujuan utamanya bukan hanya siswa aktif namun juga agar siswa makin mengagumi Allah melalui konsep-konsep yang dipelajari di kelas. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mendeskripsikan penerapan strategi Problem Based Learning dengan wawasan Kristen Alkitabiah agar dapat memotivasi keaktifan siswa. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode deskriptif kualitatif. Penelitian dilakukan di salah satu sekolah Kristen di Tangerang yang dilakukan selama satu bulan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan penerapan strategi PBL dengan wawasan Kristen Alkitabiah dilakukan melalui lima tahap yaitu mengorientasi, mengorganisasikan, membantu penyelidikan masalah, mengembangkan dan menyajikan hasil karya siswa, menganalisis dan mengevaluasi proses pemecahan masalah berhasil memotivasi keaktifan siswa dalam pembelajaran dengan topik pemuaian.
PROVOZ A ÚDRŽBA ŽELEZNIČNÍCH VOZIDEL V KONTEXTU TECHNICKÝCH SPECIFIKACÍ PRO INTEROPERABILITU
Authors: Michálek Tomáš , Liberová Stanislava
Published: December 2023

Tento přehledový článek se zabývá provozem a údržbou železničních vozidel v kontextu technických specifikací pro interoperabilitu (TSI). Pozornost je věnována zejména novému systému schvalování vozidel a rozšíření systému údržby subjektem zodpovědným za údržbu (ECM) i mimo oblast nákladních vozů, resp. obecně novinkám, které v dané oblasti zavádí tzv. technický pilíř 4. železničního balíčku.
Advisory assistance to parents (legal representatives), raising children with disabilities, on the basis of the State Budgetary Institution of the Republic of Mari El “Center for Psychological, Pedagogical, Medical and Social Assistance “Childhood”
Authors:   Advisory assistance to parents (legal representatives), raising children with disabilities, on the basis of the State Budgetary Institution of the Republic of Mari El “Center for Psychological, Pedagogical, Medical and Social Assistance “Childhood”, Purtova O. N. , Petrova N. V. ,   Advisory assistance to parents (legal representatives), raising children with disabilities, on the basis of the State Budgetary Institution of the Republic of Mari El “Center for Psychological, Pedagogical, Medical and Social Assistance “Childhood”
Published: December 2023

The article presents the experience of the work of the PPMS advisory service of the Childhood Center with parents (legal representatives) of children, as well as citizens wishing to adopt children without parental care into their families.
KKTC’de Okutulan Hayat Bilgisi ile Sosyal Bilgiler Ders Kitaplarında Afet Bilinci ve Eğitimi
Authors: GÖKBULUT Burak , YENİASIR Mustafa
Published: December 2023

Eğitim, bireylerin toplumsallaşma sürecini sağlayan en önemli unsurdur. Günümüzde yaşadığımız hemen her sorunun özüne indiğimizde temel nedenin aslında eğitimsizlik olduğu görülmektedir. Dünyada yaşanan afetler esnasında meydana gelen çok büyük can ve mal kayıplarının temel nedeni de maalesef afet eğitimine yeterince önem verilmemesidir. Eğitim tüm alanlarda olduğu gibi afetler söz konusu olduğunda da önemli bir faktördür. Başarılı bir afet yönetimi için bireylerin küçük yaştan itibaren afet eğitimi almaları büyük bir önem arz etmektedir. Alınan afet eğitimleri sayesinde özelde bireyler genelde ise tüm toplum afetler karşısında organize hâle gelerek daha dirençli bir görünüm sergilemekte ve bunun sonucu olarak da sözü edilen can ve mal kayıpları en aza indirgenmektedir. Afet eğitimleri insanları, söz konusu afetlere nasıl müdahale edecekleri ve bu afetlerden nasıl korunacakları hakkında bilgilendirirken aynı zamanda afet sonrasında normal yaşama dönme hususunda da büyük kolaylık sağlamaktadır. Bu araştırmanın amacı, KKTC’de okutulan hayat bilgisi ve sosyal bilgiler (1.-5. Sınıf) ders kitaplarının afet bilinci ve eğitimi açısından incelenmesidir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda 2022-2023 eğitim-öğretim yılı itibariyle kullanılmakta olan hayat bilgisi ve sosyal bilgiler ders kitaplarında yer alan metin ifadeleri ve kullanılan görseller afet bilinci ve afet eğitimi açısından incelenmiş ve elde edilen veriler içerik analizine tabi tutularak yorumlanmıştır. İncelenen tüm kitaplar karşılaştırıldığında afetlerle ilgili en geniş bilginin Hayat Bilgisi 3-Birinci, İkinci ve Üçüncü kitaplarda olduğu görülmektedir. Afetlerle ilgili en az bilginin ise 4. ve 5. sınıf Sosyal Bilgiler kitaplarında olduğu görülmüştür. Her iki kitapta da sadece birer unsur yer almaktadır ve bu oldukça düşük bir sayıdır.
ISOLATION, MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION AND ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY OF SALMONELLA FROM BUFFALO FECES IN SYLHET DISTRICT OF BANGLADESH
Authors: Dashgupta Bishwajit , Rahman Md. Mahfujur , Akter Sharmin , Begum Ruhena , Chowdhury Md. Shahidur Rahman , Hossain Md. Mukter
Published: December 2023

Salmonella is a widely distributed foodborne pathogen affecting humans and animals around the globe. This cross-sectional bacteriological study was aimed at isolation of Salmonella from fecal samples of buffalos in Sylhet district (Upazilas Jaintapur and Fenchuganj) of Bangladesh, their molecular confirmation, and learning their antibiotic sensitivity patterns. A total of 334 fecal samples were collected using a simple random sampling technique. Standard conventional bacteriological culture and biochemical tests were done to isolate and confirm Salmonella. The isolates were confirmed with polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In this study, Salmonella was isolated from 56 samples (16.77%) using bacteriological culture methods and biochemical tests, and all isolates were confirmed in PCR tests. The prevalence of Salmonella was estimated to be 17.57% and 13.93% in Jaintapur and Fenchuganj Upazilas, respectively. Buffalo calves under one year of age had a higher prevalence (24.32%) than older animals aged 1 - 2 (18.62%), 2 - 4 (13.25%), and > 4 years (10.67%). Furthermore, the prevalence was substantially higher in diarrheic animals (72.22%) than in their healthy counterparts (13.60%). It did not vary significantly (p > 0.05) between animals from Jaintapur and Fenchuganj Upazilas. Likewise, no significant difference (p > 0.05) in Salmonella isolates was detected between different age groups. The results revealed that the isolation rate of Salmonella was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in female and diarrheic animals. The most effective antibiotics against the majority of Salmonella isolates were gentamycin (100%), levofloxacin (100%), and ciprofloxacin (76.67%). On the other hand, Salmonella isolates were highly resistant to tetracycline (100%), ampicillin (87.5%), and streptomycin (78.6%). Pathogenic microorganisms in feces are a potential risk to public health due to environmental and animal food contamination. Therefore, infection control and establishing strategic antibiotic therapy should be a priority.
POTENTIAL OF DIFFERENT MYCOTOXIN ADSORBENTS UNDER IN VITRO CONDITIONS
Authors: Krstović Saša , Guljaš Darko , Miljanić Jelena , Damjanović Marko , Jajić Igor
Published: December 2023

Mycotoxins are a large and chemically diverse group of toxic secondary metabolites. Regarding their prevalence in animal feed and the effect on animal health, the biggest problems in terms of safety and economic losses are caused by aflatoxins, fumonisins, ochratoxins, trichothecenes and zearalenone. Adsorbents are substances that are added to food contaminated with mycotoxins, in order to bind them in the gastrointestinal tract and thereby prevent or reduce their effect. The aim of this study was to examine the possibility of using pyrophyllite as a mineral adsorbent, as well as preparations made of ground peach pits of different particle sizes as organic adsorbents, for adsorption of deoxynivalenol and ochratoxin A. Mycotoxin adsorption experiments were performed in vitro in electrolyte solutions at pH 3 and 7. The adsorption efficiency of the adsorbent was expressed as adsorption index. Pyrophyllite had adsorption index ​​of 13.47% for ochratoxin A at pH 3, while at pH 7, as well as for deoxynivalenol, the same mycotoxin produced a negligible degree of adsorption. Ground peach stones (of larger diameter, d = 0.1 mm) had considerable adsorption rates for ochratoxin A at pH 3 (34.41%) and deoxynivalenol at pH 7 (18.57%). The values were similar for smaller diameter (d < 0.1 mm) for ochratoxin A at pH 3 (42.71%) and deoxynivalenol at pH 7 (20.11%). The obtained results suggest that the potential of the preparation of ground peach stones for the adsorption of tested mycotoxins is higher compared to the potential of pyrophyllite, but there are differences in their efficiency depending on the pH value of the adsorption environment.
ECTOPIC PRIMARY ABDOMINAL PREGNANCY IN A PERSIAN CAT
Authors: Abu-Seida Ashraf
Published: December 2023

Ectopic pregnancies are common in human medicine, while they are rarely recorded in animals. This report describes a case of 2.5-year-old ectopic primary abdominal pregnancy in a 7-year-old Persian cat. The cat was admitted to the surgery clinic for routine ovariohysterectomy with no characteristic clinical symptoms. During surgery, ovaries, uterus and ligaments were normal, like in a non-pregnant cat. Four intra-abdominal fetuses of different developmental stages were found and carefully removed. Three fetuses were found free in the abdomen inside their gestational sacs. The fourth fetus was covered with omentum and had no gestational sac. The gestational sacs had different sizes (2-8 cm in diameter). Two of the fetuses were fully-haired with normal position of limbs. No complications were recorded during the surgery and 10 months post-operative. This case report adds to the database of ectopic pregnancies in cats and further illustrates their incidental nature.