bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Prevalence of cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease presenting to hospital
Authors: Tsui David S
Published: December 2024

The Parkinson’s passport is a compact document consisting facts and tips about managing PD. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of ‘The Parkinson’s Passport booklet’ on the care and management of patients with Parkinson’s admitted to an Australian hospital. The results suggest the implementation of the Parkinson’s passport booklet does not improve the care and the management of a patient with PD who present to hospital which in turn challenges the efficacy of the document. However, the major unexpected finding during the course of the study was a high incidence of cognitive impairment in PD patients (85%) presenting to hospital.
A literature review of Patient care in the management of agitation leading to violence and aggression in neuroscience nursing
Authors: Woon Caroline , Kivunja Stephen , Jameson Chantelle
Published: December 2024

Background

A correlation exists between staff retention, staff and patient safety and effective prevention of violence and aggression in neuroscience nursing. Workplace violence leads to a lack of productivity amongst nurses and legally a hospital is required to provide a safe working environment. This literature review aims to determine the themes within the literature and effective patient management of agitation leading to violence and aggression.

Aim

A literature review of articles was conducted using CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane database and Google Scholar between 2007-2022.

Discussion

The common themes within the literature included assessment of the patient to identify an unmet need, early referrals to members of the interdisciplinary team, effective communication, verbal de-escalation techniques and an understanding of restraint and pharmaceutical management, even though these should be the last resort. Education for staff is fundamental and should include effective communication, warning signs, triggers for aggression, simulation in the clinical context, and verbal de-escalation techniques. Debriefing should take place after an incidence of violence and aggression and effective hospital management should be considered with guidelines and systems in place to support and protect staff and patients.
2022 Annual Demographic Survey of Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Nurse Specialists
Authors: Williams Susan , Tsui David , Zeppel Melanie
Published: December 2024

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition that is the most common form of movement disorder. Caring for people with Parkinson's requires the skills and expertise of a Parkinson's disease and movement disorders nurse specialist (PDMDNS) (Bramble, Carroll, & Rossiter, 2018). The World Health Organisation has identified the importance of monitoring health workforce demographics and distribution trends in order to effectively plan for health care needs (WHO 2016). This is the third publication of an annual series reviewing the longitudinal trends of the PDMDNS workforce in Australia (Williams et al. 2021, Williams et al. 2023).
Spine Surgery and Home Again: The Nurse's Role in the Patient Journey
Authors: Foxall Kim , Hardman Catherine
Published: December 2024

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs – also referred to as fast-track programs - are multidisciplinary, evidence-based perioperative pathways, designed to achieve early recovery for patients undergoing major surgery (Ali et al., 2018). ERAS utilises strategies to optimise the patient's condition for surgery and recovery. In particular, the aim is to achieve an earlier discharge from hospital for the patient and a more rapid resumption of normal activities after surgery, without an increase in complications or readmissions (Dietz et al., 2019). An essential element of ERAS programs is multidisciplinary collaboration between surgical, anaesthetic, nursing and allied health teams. While elements of ERAS may vary between surgical units and hospitals, there are many common features in the preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative phases.

Minimally invasive spine surgery techniques and instrumentation have evolved rapidly over the past decade, and there is now a worldwide interest in ERAS programs for spine surgeries, including lumbar and cervical decompression and fusion procedures (Li et al., 2021). Nurses have a pivotal role in the successful implementation and sustainability of ERAS protocols because of their specialised knowledge and skill, and their constant presence throughout the patient care pathway (Wainwright et al., 2022). This publication presents learnings from the implementation of an ERAS program for minimally invasive spine surgery at Westmead Hospital, NSW.
Surgical site infections in neurosurgical patients following cranial surgery: An integrative review
Authors: Kivunja Stephen
Published: December 2024

Aim

To synthesise the literature pertaining to surgical site infections (SSIs) in neurosurgical patients following cranial surgery.

Background

SSIs in neurosurgical patients following cranial surgery present a major healthcare problem for healthcare providers worldwide. The most widely reported outcomes following SSIs include increased length of inpatient stay, morbidity, mortality, higher treatment costs and increased care burden for families and caregivers.

Design

Integrative review.

Methods

Using an integrative review framework, electronic database searches were conducted in CINAHL, Embase, Medline and ProQuest from 2012 – 2022. The search was limited to peer reviewed full text publications. Reference lists of identified studies were reviewed, and additional articles were accessed. Methodological rigour for included studies was evaluated using Critical Appraisal Skills Program tools.

Results

Twenty articles were reviewed, and four themes emerged relating to: preoperative patient preparatory practices and SSIs; risk factors for developing SSIs post cranial surgery; patient-reported outcomes and healthcare implications; and strategies for preventing SSIs within hospital settings.

Conclusion

Surgical site infections post cranial surgery among neurosurgical patients can be contained through administration of pre-surgical prophylactic antibiotics, adhering to aseptic hand hygiene, utilising evidence based infection control protocols, educating neurosurgical nurse clinicians in post cranial surgical wound care, and providing tailored education for patients and families in postoperative cranial surgical wound care.
INTELLIGENT MONITORING FOR DETECTIONS AND ESTIMATING RADIOLOGICAL PLUME DISPERSION IN AQUATIC ENVIRONMENTS: RIVERS AND SEAS
Authors:   Nuclear Section (PPGEN)-Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil., G.S. Pereira , S.S. Prass ,   Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre - RS, Brazil., A.M.R.S. Pereira ,   CountryPos Graduate Program in Bioproducts and Bioprocesses, Federal University of the State of Sao Paulo (UNIFESP), Santos - SP, Brazil., R.C. Pereira ,   Departament of Medicine Leonardo Da Vinci University, Salto del Guaira, Paraguay., M.V.A. Vieira ,   Nuclear Section (PPGEN)-Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil., F. M. Garbim ,   Nuclear Section (PPGEN)-Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil., A. J. Boareto-Mendes ,   Nuclear Section (PPGEN)-Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil., F.M. Araujo-Moreira ,   Nuclear Section (PPGEN)-Military Institute of Engineering (IME), Rio de Janeiro - RJ, Brazil.
Published: December 2024

This work continues the presentation INTELLIGENT MONITORING FOR RADIOLOGICAL PLUME DISPERSION ESTIMATION - INTELLIGENT MONITORING FOR RADIOLOGICAL PLUM DISPERSION ESTIMATION, developed as part of the event hosted by ABDAN at the third edition of the Nuclear Trade & Technology Exchange â€“ NT2E, Brazilian Nuclear Olympics (ONB), Hackapower. The primary objective was to develop a system for monitoring radiological plumes in aquatic environments, using a model based on Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The proposed system aims to estimate radiation dispersion in scenarios where plant systems are unavailable, similar to the Fukushima accident. Given this context, it was necessary to create mobile devices with radiation detection capabilities to provide accurate data on dose rate distribution. The model was developed to predict dose distribution using simulated data from a hypothetical accident and involved the use of LoRaWAN networks for drone communication and a firefly algorithm for signaling areas with different radiation levels. The implementation of GPR utilized the ScikitLearn library, while PSO was applied through the pyswarm library, focusing on optimization based on information entropy. Results indicated that the model successfully reconstructed the dose rate profile with an estimate close to the actual values, although data non-uniformity may have impacted accuracy. The use of drones for data collection proved innovative and effective, enabling real-time analysis and offering a robust solution for radiological monitoring in emergency scenarios. Analysis of radiation permeability variation in different aquatic environments highlighted the importance of adjusting measurements according to water density and composition. In conclusion, the work achieved its goal by developing an intelligent system for radiation dispersion estimation, and future work should explore new scenarios and dynamics to enhance model accuracy in real radiological emergency situations.
QUEL APPORT DES BIPHOSPHONATES DANS LOSTEOGENESE IMPARFAITE (A PROPOS DE 30 CAS)
Authors:   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Querrach I. , Abourazzak S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Souilmi F. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Idrissi M. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Chaouki S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Atmani S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Hida M. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine et de Pharmacie et de Medecine dentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes.
Published: December 2024

Losteogenese imparfaite est une maladie genetique caracterisee par une fragilite et une faible masse osseuse, qui se traduit par des fractures pathologiques. Le but de notre travail est devaluer le profil epidemiologique, clinique, paraclinique, therapeutique et evolutif des patients atteints dosteogenese imparfaite traites par Biphosphonate (acide zoledronique) chez lenfant. Nous rapportons 30 cas dosteogenese imparfaite chez des patients dage inferieur a 16 ans et suivis dans notre unite dhopital de jour. La moyenne dage des patients est de 2 ans (un mois a 16 ans). Le motif de consultation etait domine par des fractures multiples chez 83 %. Tous nos patients ont presente des deformations des membres inferieurs. Les signes extra-squelettiques dans notre serie sont domines par lhyperlaxite ligamentaire chez 12 cas, une sclere bleutee chez six cas et une dentinogenese imparfaite chez cinq patients. On a classe les patients come OI de type I chez 50 %, suivie par le type IV (33%) et le type III (17%). Le traitement par une perfusion intraveineuse tous les 3 mois de BP (acide zoledronique) a ete effectue chez les 30 enfants. Une evaluation clinique et paraclinique apres un an de traitement a ete effectuee apres la mise sous traitement, 50 % ont gagne une autonomie partielle, pas de nouvelles fractures chez 36 % des cas et 40 % des enfants ont eu une bonne amelioration de leurs parametres de croissance. Apres le traitement, lindex corticodiaphysaire moyen a ete de 0,45avec un maximum de 0,66 et un minimum de 0,20. Anote que 66% des enfants ont garde une osteopenie, une transition alage adulte chez cinq patients.
LES MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDOSES TYPE I CHEZ LENFANT : DU DIAGNOSTIC AU TRAITEMENT
Authors:   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Querrach I. , Abourazzak S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Idrissi M. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Chaouki S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Atmani S. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Souilmi F. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes., Hida M. ,   Service de Pediatrie de CHU Hassan II de Fes, Faculte de Medecine de Pharmacie et de Medecinedentaire, Universite Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdallah de Fes.
Published: December 2024

La mucopolysaccharidose de type I (MPS I) est une maladie de surcharge lysosomale, de transmission autosomique recessive. Due au deficit en Î±-L-iduronidase (IDUA). Les objectifs de notre etude sont : detudier les differentes caracteristiques epidemiologiques, cliniques et paracliniques des MPS I, danalyser les profils evolutifs des patients sous traitement specifique. Cest une etude retrospective descriptive associee a un suivi prospectif des malades, menee a lunite de lhopital du jour au sein de service de pediatrie du CHU Hassan II de Fes, portant sur les cas de mucopolysaccharidose type I chez lenfant sur une periode de 10 ans. Lage moyen de nos patients etait de 4,5 ans. La consanguinite de premier degre chez six cas. Les hernies ombilicales et la distension abdominale etaient les motifs les plus frequents pour consulter. La dysmorphie faciale et lorganomegalie ainsi quun retard statural et/ou ponderal etaient presentes chez tous les patients. Neufs cas presentaient une atteinte osteoarticulaire et sept cas une atteinte cardiaque. Une excretion urinaire accrue des GAGs a ete constatee chez six malades. Il y avait un deficit enzymatique total (< 5 nmol/h/mg de proteines) en alpha-l-iduronidase chez tous les patients. Letude genetique realisee chez tous nos patients a revele une mutation p.P533R a letat homozygote chez neuf patients. Le phenotype Hurler a ete constate chez six cas et quatre cas etaient des formes attenuees. Sept de nos patients recoivent un traitement substitutif base sur la laronidase et la plupart de ces enfants recoivent un traitement symptomatique. Levolution sous laronidase a ete marquee en general par lamelioration alors que letat des deux patients non traites saggravait progressivement avec un deces suite a un arret cardio respiratoire.
Optimizing dormant account management in UAE banking: Legal gaps and proposed reforms
Authors: Awad Abdelrehim , Zuhair Al‐fil Nada , Mohamed Dganni Khalid , Moustafa Aldabousi Ahmed , Ahmad Obeidat Muayad
Published: December 2024

The management of dormant accounts and unclaimed balances is a pressing challenge in the banking sector of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly given the complex regulatory landscape. This study analyzes 150 dormant accounts across five major UAE banks (Emirates NBD, First Abu Dhabi Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Sharjah Islamic Bank, and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank) and identifies gaps in the legal framework, including the absence of clear definitions and handling of non-monetary assets.The study investigates the legal framework governing dormant accounts, specifically focusing on the Dormant Accounts System No. 1 of 2020. The results highlight critical issues, including the lack of clear timelines for transferring unclaimed balances and inconsistencies in communication protocols for notifying account holders. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for standardized practices across financial institutions in the UAE.To address these challenges, the study proposes legislative amendments to improve asset management and consumer protection. Key recommendations include establishing standardized definitions, implementing automated tracking systems for dormant accounts, and integrating dormant balances into social welfare programs to enhance public trust. These reforms could significantly improve operational efficiency and legal clarity in the UAE banking sector, contributing to a more transparent and effective management of dormant accounts and unclaimed balances.
Acknowledgments The authors are thankful to the Deanship of Graduate Studies and Scientific Research at the University of Bisha for supporting this work through the Fast-Track Research Support Program.
A depressed patient in outpatient settings
Authors: Pizova N. V. , Pizov A. V.
Published: December 2024

Depression is a clinically significant and growing public health issue. As a major global disease burden, its prevalence has been steadily increasing over the years, affecting different demographic groups. Depressive disorder is characterized by a low mood, loss of strength, sadness, insomnia, and inability to feel pleasure. In outpatient settings, up to one-third of patients with depressive symptoms may have a comorbidity. Many different diseases have been associated with depressive symptoms. Cardiovascular, metabolic, inflammatory, oncological, and neurological disorders are associated with an increased risk of depression, potentially due to chronic inflammation, neurochemical dysregulation, and emotional and social issues. As different drugs can cause depressive symptoms, the patient's medical history should include an assessment of the use of such drugs. Primary care physicians play an important role in identifying and treating depression. It is recommended to perform depression screening in all adult female patients in primary care facilities. There are general recommendations for the initial treatment of mild to moderate depressive disorder in adults. In mild depression, initial preference should be given to psychotherapy and symptom monitoring, and if improvement is insufficient, pharmacotherapy is to be used. Psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy or a combination of both should be considered for patients with moderate depression. Psychiatric consultation is recommended for patients with severe depression and urgently for any patient with psychotic symptoms or suicidal thoughts and behaviour. Antidepressants are the basic therapy for depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are considered the first-line drugs to treat depression.
Climate change and its impacts in extreme events in Morocco (observation, monitoring, and forecasting)
Authors: Hammoudy Wahib , Ilmen Rachid , Sinan Mohamed
Published: December 2024

Rising extreme weather events in Morocco pose a growing threat to various socioeconomic sectors. These events, including heatwaves and cold spells, are exhibiting an alarming increase in intensity, frequency, and duration. To understand this trend and its future implications, a comprehensive study is essential. So, this research investigates the link between climate change and extreme weather events. It specifically focuses on how climate change influences the occurrence and intensity of these extremes. The study employs two main phases: Phase 1 is about the historical analysis (1984–2018). This phase uses robust methods like Sen's slope test for trend estimation and Mann–Kendall test for significance to evaluate observed changes in climatic extremes. Phase 2 is about future projections (2041–2060). This phase utilizes four climate models to project future changes in thermal and rainfall extremes under the RCP 4.5 scenario. Five climate indices (Tmm, Tx90p, WSDI, PRCPTOT, and SPI) are employed for analysis. Historical analysis reveals a significant increase in hot extremes across Morocco. Rainfall extremes, however, show no significant changes in trends. Future projections for all four climate models agree on significant warming in Morocco. They also project a decrease in annual precipitation across most of the country.
Towards phosphorus circularity: biofilm EBPR with subsequent struvite production at the Hias WWTP: insights from full-scale and laboratory testing
Authors: Eikås Sondre , Glestad Hans Emil , Marsteng Jansen Katrine , Sørensen Gjermund
Published: December 2024

With the objective of reducing its CO2 footprint and moving towards circularity by recovering influent phosphorus, Hias wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) has developed a novel biological removal process (the Hias Process) which combines enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) and moving bed biofilm reactor and is now operating at full scale. Additionally, a struvite reactor is installed to capture phosphorus from the resulting sludge. In this work, the performance of the WWTP and particularly the biological phosphorus removal process and struvite reactor is assessed with regards to circularity and recovery of phosphorus. The Hias Process demonstrates stability and effectiveness even in cold climates and during stormwater events. Introducing the Hias Process reduced the use of precipitation chemicals, leading to a lower carbon footprint. The combination of the Hias Process with subsequent struvite reactor contributes to increased phosphorus circularity. That is achieved through improved plant availability of phosphorus in biosolids and the production of struvite. Main factors affecting recovery of phosphorus are identified and include the use of precipitation metals, bypass of the EBPR, and temperature's impact on PO4 release from EBPR sludge. This study aligns with Sustainable Development Goals and emphasizes efficient phosphorus recovery through the Hias Process and struvite reactor.
Influence of aqueous constituents on hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) defluorination by UV/sulfite/iodide system
Authors: Gao Jie , Zhang Chaojie , Chu Liquan , Zhao Yunmeng , Zhai Zhenyu , Zhou Xuefei , Zhang Yalei
Published: December 2024

Hexafluoropropylene oxide trimer acid (HFPO-TA) is an emerging alternative to traditional perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), which is characterized by its biotoxicity and persistence. The UV/sulfite/iodide photo-induced hydrated electrons system can effectively degrade HFPO-TA under mild conditions. However, the effects of water quality on this system need to be urgently investigated. This study explored the impact of common aqueous constituents, such as Cl-, HCO3-, PO43- and humic acid (HA) on the defluorination efficiency of HFPO-TA by the UV/sulfite/iodide system. Results indicated that low concentrations of Cl- (<1.0 mM), PO43- (<0.01 mM), and HA (<1.0 mg/L) have little effect on defluorination efficiency. However, as concentrations increase, these constituents can interact with photosensitizers or reactive species within the system, leading to a decrease in defluorination efficiency. HCO3-, in their various solution states, can compete with HFPO-TA for the hydrated electron (eaq-) or engage directly with the photosensitizer, resulting in a hindrance to the defluorination capabilities of the system. Furthermore, it was identified that the components in Xiaoqing River, especially Cl- and HCO3-, could greatly inhibit the defluorination and degradation efficiency of HFPO-TA by the system. Pretreatment such as nanofiltration would effectively mitigate this problem.
Antropologia das Emoções
Authors: Lopes Eugénio
Published: December 2024

Quando se fala de pessoa humana, deve-se também falar da afetividade, uma das suas componentes, que, apesar de essencialmente não ter a sua origem no intelecto nem na vontade, permite, de igual modo, com que ela se possa autorrealizar de uma melhor forma. Por outro lado, uma boa conceção e educação afetiva, permite, por sua vez, a educação e o desenvolvimento social, como também das gerações vindouras. Neste sentido, uma vez que não apresenta um tratado explicito sobre este tema, com este artigo, pretendo descrever e analisar a conceção das emoções no pensamento de Paul Ekman, um renomado psicólogo norte-americano, que dedicou a sua vida, como investigador, a analisar este afeto na pessoa humana, e como ele é fundamental para garantir a nossa autorrealização. Para atingir este objetivo, inicialmente analisarei o mapa afetivo da pessoa humana, mais concretamente as emoções. Em seguida, analisarei em que é que consiste a educação emocional, segundo Paul Ekman.
Capsaicin: Unveiling its Therapeutic Potential and Pharmacological Actions
Authors: Sinha Sonal , Gupta Sanjay Kumar , Sahu Pankaj , Gupta Aakash , Ajazuddin
Published: December 2024

This article offers in-depth information on the pharmacological effects, historical
background, and chemical makeup of capsaicin, the primary ingredient in chili peppers. Capsaicin
was first discovered in Mexico about 5000 BC, and it has since changed from being a culinary
spice to a substance with substantial medicinal potential. It covers the chemical characteristics of
capsaicin, how it activates the sympathetic nervous system, and how to measure the heat level of
capsaicin using the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale. The production of capsaicin in plants, its
connection to substance P and CGRP, and the TRPV1 receptor are all explained in further depth.
The article discusses capsaicin's many pharmacological impacts, such as painkilling, antiinflammatory,
antioxidant, antibacterial, cardiovascular, and anti-obesity properties; the article
also discusses the spice's pharmacokinetics and mechanisms of action. A summary of current
clinical trials indicates continued interest in the possible medical applications of capsaicin. The
wealth of data that this analysis concludes highlights capsaicin as a viable topic for more research
and development in medicine and healthcare.
Evaluation of the Hypoglycemic Activity of Methanolic Extract of Foeniculum vulgare in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Wistar Rats
Authors: Bougrine Soukaina , Abouyaala Oumaima , Elgui Radia , El Brouzi Mohamed Yassine , Sow Brahim , Elmotia Khadija , El hessni Aboubaker , Mesfioui Abdelhalem , Ouahidi Moulay Laarbi
Published: December 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the hypoglycemic effects of methanolic extract
of Foeniculum vulgare in male Wistar rats that were diabetic due to streptozotocin.

Methods:

Experimental diabetes was initially induced in male Wistar rats by intravenous injection
of streptozotocin (55 mg/kg). Subsequently, the rats received daily oral administration of the
methanolic extract of Foeniculum vulgare (250 mg/kg) and the standard drug metformin (300
mg/kg) for 28 days. Furthermore, a tolerance test was carried out.

Results:

The study findings suggest that the diabetic rats in the untreated control group showed
hyperglycemia and significant weight loss, as well as polydipsia, polyphagia, and polyuria.
However, rats treated with methanolic extract of Foeniculum vulgare for 28 days showed a significant
reduction in blood glucose levels and a marked improvement in body weight. Additionally,
there was a notable decrease in the daily rate of food consumption and water intake and a
significant reduction in serum glucose level, triglycerides, total cholesterol, creatinine, urea,
AST, and ALT levels compared to the untreated diabetic control group. Histopathological examination
revealed that after 28 days of treatment with 250 mg/kg of methanolic extract of the Foeniculum
vulgare, the size of the islets of Langerhans in the pancreas tissue was decreased. Moreover,
liver tissue demonstrated normalization with a normal central lobular structure, and kidney
tissue showed normalization with a normal Bowman's capsule.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that the methanolic extract of Foeniculum vulgare can potentially
treat diabetes and should be evaluated further for drug development.
Exploring Fuzzy Logic as an Alternative Approach in Psychological Scoring
Authors: Kyriazos Theodoros , Poga Mary
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Accurate measurement is foundational to psychological assessments, influencing research validity, clinical practice, and societal applications. While extensively utilized, traditional scoring methods suffer from limitations in granularity, sensitivity, and adaptability, potentially impacting the precision and utility of these assessments. This study aims to explore the efficacy of fuzzy logic as an alternative scoring method for the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), addressing these limitations.

Methods

A cross-sectional design involving 1,230 Greek adults was employed to compare traditional scoring methods with fuzzy logic. Data were collected online and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, paired t-tests, regression analysis, and sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness and reliability of fuzzy logic scoring.

Results

Results indicated that fuzzy logic scoring provides enhanced granularity and sensitivity, effectively capturing subtle variations in life satisfaction and mitigating ceiling and floor effects. The strong positive correlation (r = .9505) between traditional and fuzzy logic scores suggests high consistency. Significant mean differences highlighted the increased sensitivity of fuzzy logic scoring. The Bland-Altman plot confirmed good agreement between the methods, and sensitivity analysis demonstrated the robustness of fuzzy logic scoring across different parameter settings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fuzzy logic offers a reliable and nuanced alternative to traditional scoring methods, significantly improving the accuracy and applicability of psychological assessments. Integrating fuzzy logic with advanced technologies could further enhance the precision and inclusivity of psychological evaluations, making it a promising tool for future psychological measurement.
Cross-cultural Adaption of the Indonesian Version of the Withdrawal Assessment Tool Version-1
Authors: Puspaningtyas Niken Wahyu , Gustiany Erida , Mutifa Juanda , Primacakti Fitri , Priesley Fuka
Published: December 2024

Background

Sedative and analgesic medications are commonly administered in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) but can cause complications, such as Iatrogenic Withdrawal Syndrome (IWS). The Withdrawal Assessment Tool Version-1 (WAT-1) questionnaire is a validated and reliable diagnostic tool for IWS, but it is not yet available in the Indonesian language.

Methods

This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in two phases at Ciptomangukusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia. The initial phase involved translating the WAT-1 and State Behavioral Scale (SBS) instrument into Indonesian. Subsequently, the validity and reliability of the Indonesian version of WAT-1 were tested on 30 patients who received sedative and analgesic medications for at least five consecutive days in the PICU. Evaluations were performed by two groups of nurses: PICU nurses and training nurses.

Results

The Indonesian version of WAT-1 was found to be valid and reliable. The validity showed correlations ranging from good to very strong (r = 0.490 to 0.836) among PICU nurses and strong correlations (r = 0.634 to 0.808) among trained nurses. The WAT-1 questionnaire demonstrated reliability with Cronbach's alpha values of 0.791 for PICU nurses and 0.785 for trained nurses. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) for WAT-1 indicated very good to excellent consistency in assessments, and the ICC for SBS indicated excellent consistency.

Conclusion

The Indonesian version of WAT-1 and SBS is a valid and reliable diagnostic tool for detecting Iatrogenic Withdrawal Syndrome in Children.
Practical Approach of Trayopstambha in Preventing Autoimmune Disorders
Authors: Chauhan Parul  , Chauhan Kumar Vipin
Published: December 2024

Trayopstambha are – Aahar, Nidra and Brahmcharya. All of them are helpful for living a healthy life. In all autoimmune disease like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus Erythematous, Celiac diseases, Polymyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Type 1 DM and Alopecia aerata body immune system is affected due to over activity of free radicals. Free radicals’ activity is increased due to disbalance in Trayopstambha. Aama Rasa is responsible for development of all autoimmune diseases. This Aama Rasa can be compared to free radical which causes destruction of healthy tissues. Aama's etiological factors may be classified as Aharja, Viharaja and Manasika. Not only food in larger amount, but also qualities such as Guru, Sheeta, Shushka, Ruksha, Vidahi, Viruddha Ahara (incompatible diet), Ajeernabhojana (indigestion), Asatmya Bhojana (toxic food) or Abhojana (self-restraint from food), Deevasvapna (keeping wakeful in the night and sleeping in the day), are chief factors accountable for the creation of Aama. The condition of Aama formation is also exaggerated by mental disorder due to disturbance in Nidra and Brahmcharya. Acharya Sushruta stressed that Nidana is the simple and uttermost basis for a treatment. Prevention is always better than a cure. If we follow proper regimen of Trayopstambha it makes metabolism better, decrease free radical activity in body and reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Therapeutic interventions and clinical efficacy in Ayurvedic management of Vipadika (Palmoplantar Psoriasis): A Case Report
Authors: Topiwala Sahil , Krushnkumar Taviad  , Bharat Kalsariya
Published: December 2024

Vipadika, a skin disorder mentioned in Ayurvedic literature as Kshudra Kustha attributed to Vata and Kapha Dosha imbalance, is analogous to palmoplantar psoriasis in contemporary science. It is a non-infectious chronic inflammatory disease of the skin bound to the palm and sole. It is characterized by pain, itching, and fissures in both soles. Contemporary treatment options often lead to temporary relief with frequent recurrence, leading patients to seek alternative therapies. The present case report aims to assess the therapeutic efficacy of Ayurvedic management in treating Vipadika. A 58-year-old female presented with pruritus, fissures in both sole and severe pain with oozing of bleeding from fissures across both soles; diagnosed as Vipadika. The treatment approach exclusively involved Shamana Chikitsa, including the oral administration of Panchatikta Ghrita, Gandhaka Rasayana, and Avipattikara Churna. Topical care was provided by washing the affected area with Panchavalkala Kwatha mixed with Shuddha Tankana for debridement. After washing, the patient was advised to use a foot scrubber for scrubbing the dead skin around the fissures followed by Jatyadi Malam for topical use. The patient's response was assessed over ten weeks, with follow-up for four weeks to determine using symptom improvement, patient-reported outcomes, and Auspitz sign. This case demonstrates the potential of Ayurvedic therapies for the effective management of Vipadika, suggesting a viable alternative to conventional treatment approaches.
Exploring Shirodhara and Nasya: A Holistic Ayurvedic strategy for addressing Anovulation-Induced Infertility
Authors: Preeti Garg
Published: December 2024

Anovulation and low AMH are common causes of female infertility. Anovulation may be caused due to hormonal disorders, PCOS, thyroid disease, extreme levels of stress, or some other medical disorders. In Ayurveda, four factors are essential for successful conception and pregnancy. These are Ritu (fertile & intercourse time), Kshetra (patent reproductive tract), Ambu (nutrition), and Beeja (healthy sperm & ova). All of these, the most essential factor is said to be Beeja, which actually is the Antahpushpai, or ovum. Conception and successful carrying of a pregnancy depend upon all these factors going along in concordance with each other. According to Ayurveda, Anovulation is a category of Beeja Dushti. Shirodhara & Nasya is one of the most effective Ayurvedic treatments which support ovulation. Case study: This 42 year’s female patient was not getting pregnant since the last 7 years. Her cycles were anovulatory as her ovaries did not show the release of eggs at the proper time. On evaluation through follicular scans revealed the presence of multiple small follicles in left ovary and one dominant follicle (size-14mm) seen in right ovary even on 15th day of cycle. The AMH of this patient was also very low i.e., 1.39 ng/dl. The treatment given to this patient was an Ayurvedic therapy Shirodhara and Nasyakarma and Shaman-Aushadi. Result: Over the course of three-months, she achieved a successful pregnancy. Discussion: Present study illustrates how Ayurvedic practices and treatments can significantly contribute for ovulation and fertility.
Comparative physicochemical study of Manjishta Kwatha prepared by using different proportion of water
Authors: Dongre Sushma
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Due to ambiguity in literature regarding Kwatha preparation, exact proportion of water needed as per consistency of Dravya (Drug) for optimum quality of Kwatha is the need for standard pharmaceutical practices. For this purpose Manjishta was selected for Kwatha preparation using two different proportion of water. Aim and Objectives: To find out the difference in physicochemical parameters to access the quality of Manjishta Kwatha in order to save time and fuel required for Kwatha with the objective to prepare Manjishta Kwatha by using two different proportion of water and to compare time and fuel needed. Methods: Procurement and Authentication of Manjishta were done as per standard protocol. Manjishta Kwatha were prepared by using two different proportion of water one by using 16 parts of water and second by using 8 parts of water by reduced 1/8th and 1/4th respectively. In process and finished products observations were noted as per procedure. Analytical testing was done as per Ayurved Pharmacopeia of India. Observations and Results:  In physicochemical analysis, the pH value, refractive index and specific gravity have not shown any remarkable difference however total solid content were found to be more in the Kwatha which used eight parts of water. The fuel and time consumed were three times more in the sample which used sixteen parts of water. So, Manjishta can be considered as Madhyam (Medium) consistency drug for Kwatha purpose. This study provided the preliminary physicochemical parameters for the Manjishta Kwatha. Further it needs to study qualitative parameters with highly sophisticated analytical techniques.
FARMER’S BARRIERS IN USING INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY TO PROMOTE AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN BATU CITY (A PERSPECTIVE FROM THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACTORS)
Authors: Alia Fibrianingtyas  , Mas Ayu Ambayoen
Published: December 2024

Changes in extension in the era of the industrial revolution 4.0 have greatly influenced the way information is delivered to farmers towards providing a more dynamic flow of information. This open access to information is the result of the effects of the use of information and communication technology, especially advances in cell phones and the internet. Information and communication technologies in agricultural development require certain educational processes and capacity building due to some technical difficulties and lack of skills to apply it. However, the smart city concept that implementing in Batu City in fact has not been successful. So, the objective of this research is to identify the obstacles of farmers in using innovative technology to promote the agricultural products. This research is using qualitative method with the data analysis method using Miles and Hubberman. The data was collected from indepth interview to extention workers. The results of this research shows that there are three obstacles that affects the utilization of innovative technology, such as farmer’s capability, management of application, and features of application complexity.
THE EFFECT OF FOOD CERTIFICATION ON COMPETITIVENESS AND INCREASING SALES OF AGROINDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS IN EAST JAVA
Authors: Riana Fitria Dina
Published: December 2024

Food safety, which is realized through P-IRT and halal certification, must be fulfilled by producers even though it is still on a household scale. This is because food safety is a guarantee provided by producers and a right that must be obtained by consumers. Where later this certification can affect sales and also the competitiveness of existing products, this research examined MSMEs in East Java and there were 50 respondents used. Based on the research results, it is known that food certification which is realized through P-IRT and is also halal has a positive and significant influence on sales and competitiveness of the food products produced. Likewise with the knowledge of MSME producers regarding sales and product competitiveness.
Compuestos de interés comercial en Agave salmiana (Asparagaceae) a diferentes momentos fenológicos
Authors: García-Dávila Jorge , Salazar-Rivera Gabriela Irais , Trejo Hernández Laura , Sánchez-Minutti Lilia , Ortega-Sánchez Eric
Published: December 2024

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El maguey pulquero (Agave salmiana) del altiplano central de México representa historia, cultura y riqueza. En Tlaxcala se siembran preferentemente cuatro cultivares de Agave salmiana subsp. salmiana: Ayoteco, Chalqueño, Manso y Púa Larga. Su uso está limitado a la producción de pulque y actualmente no hay información sobre la composición química que pueda ayudar a los agricultores a seleccionar los ejemplares dependiendo de su propósito. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el perfil de biomoléculas producidas por estos cuatro cultivares.Métodos: Se evaluó la producción de biomoléculas en cuatro cultivares de la subespecie salmiana a través de un diseño experimental de dos factores: cultivar y etapa fenológica, con cuatro niveles para cada factor. Las variables respuesta fueron: el contenido de inulina (INU), fructooligosacáridos (FOS), azúcares reductores directos (ARD), azúcares reductores totales (ART), ácidos grasos (AG), ésteres (ES) y otras moléculas.Resultados clave: El análisis factorial mostró que, para ART, FOS e INU, las diferencias contrastantes fueron entre las etapas fenológicas capón y edad media. El análisis de componentes principales indicó que el componente uno está representado por los ART, FOS y INU y que hay una alta correlación (>0.8) de los ART con los FOS y INU. El componente dos representó los grados de polimerización promedio (GPP), tanto de la INU como de los FOS. Por su parte, el análisis de CG-MSD permitió la identificación tentativa de moléculas con potencial uso. Conclusiones: Los resultados podrían servir para aprovechar de manera estratégica los diferentes cultivares de Agave del altiplano central de México.
Utilizing botley robotics to facilitate the development of computational thinking skills in children with visual impairment
Authors: Pamungkas Mey Tias Andry , Budiyanto Cucuk Wawan , Suharno Suharno
Published: December 2024

Computational thinking (CT) skills have become increasingly vital in the digital age, particularly for children with visual impairments who often encounter challenges in accessing technological education. This study aims to explore the use of Botley Robotics as a tool to facilitate CT skills and its application in the learning context. Employing qualitative methods through observations, questionnaires, and interviews, this research involved two students with visual impairments from a special needs school in Indonesia, selected through purposive sampling. Botley, a screenless robot, served as the primary learning medium. The data collected were analyzed using the CT framework from Brennan and Resnick, which encompasses three main dimensions: computational concepts, practices, and perspectives. The findings indicate that Botley Robotics effectively facilitates CT skills in students, particularly in areas such as debugging, programming, and logical reasoning. Despite their visual limitations, the students demonstrated the ability to program the robot and understand complex statements and logical operators. The conclusions drawn from this research suggest that Botley can serve as a valuable tool for fostering CT skills among students with visual impairments by integrating concepts from the Brennan Resnick framework. The tactile and auditory feedback provided by Botley enables children to develop problem-solving and logical thinking skills through direct interaction. This study highlights the significance of incorporating robotic technology into inclusive education and demonstrates the substantial potential of Botley Robotics to enhance access to and the quality of education for children with visual impairments. Therefore, it is recommended that this technology be implemented more broadly within the context of inclusive education.
Diabetes Medical Group Visits and Type 2 Diabetes Outcomes: Mediation Analysis of Diabetes Distress
Authors: Reichert Matthew , De La Cruz Barbara A , Gardiner Paula , Mitchell Suzanne
Published: December 2024

Background

Group-based diabetes care, both technology-enabled and in-person, can improve diabetes outcomes in low-income minority women, but the mechanism remains unclear.

Objective

We tested whether diabetes group medical visits (GMVs) reduced hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) by mitigating diabetes distress (DD), an emotional response affecting nearly half of adults with type 2 diabetes in community settings.

Methods

We conducted a mediation and moderation analysis of data from the Women in Control 2.0 comparative effectiveness study, which showed that both technology-enabled and in-person diabetes GMVs improve HbA1c. We tested whether DD mediated the relationship between diabetes GMV engagement and reductions in HbA1c. We also tested whether this relationship was moderated by depressive symptoms and social support. Participants were 309 low-income and minority women. Diabetes GMV engagement was measured using the Group Climate Questionnaire. The mediator, DD, was measured using the Diabetes Distress Screening Scale. The outcome was the 6-month change in HbA1c. Social support was measured using the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey.

Results

DD mediated the relationship between engagement and 6-month HbA1c. Specifically, group engagement affected HbA1c by reducing distress associated with the regimen of diabetes self-management (P=.04), and possibly the emotional burden of diabetes (P=.09). The relationship between engagement and 6-month HbA1c was moderated by depressive symptoms (P=.02), and possibly social support (P=.08).

Conclusions

Engagement in diabetes GMVs improved HbA1c because it helped reduce diabetes-related distress, especially related to the regimen of diabetes management and possibly related to its emotional burden, and especially for women without depressive symptoms and possibly for women who lacked social support.