bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
دور الخطاب الديني في الفضائيات العراقية بتشكيل اتجاهات الشباب إزاء الحشد الشعبي
Authors: مثنى محمد فيحان م.د
Published: January 2024

يرمي هذا البحث الى تحديد طبيعة الاتجاهات المتشكلة لدى الشباب العراقي نحو الحشد الشعبي، استنادا الى دور الخطاب الديني في الفضائيات العراقية وتأثيراته على الشباب (عينة البحث)، ما حدا بالباحث الى صياغة مشكلة بحثه بتساؤل رئيس هو ما طبيعة الدور الذي يمارسه الخطاب الديني في الفضائيات العراقية بتشكيل اتجاهات الشباب العراقي إزاء الحشد الشعبي؟ إضافة الى وضع فروض مستنبطة من نظرية ترتيب الأولويات.
كما يعد هذا البحث وصفيا معتمدا على المنهج المسحي من خلال مسح جمهور الشباب الذين حددوا بالفئة العمرية (18-30 سنة)، وقد بلغت عينة البحث بـ(420) مبحوثا، توزعوا بالتساوي على ثلاث محافظات هي (بغداد، البصرة، نينوى) بواقع (140) مبحوثا لكل محافظة، وطبق الباحث اختبارا الصدق والثبات على أدوات البحث قبل اعتمادها في القياس، ومن ثم نالت الأدوات تلك الدرجات التي تؤهلها لقياس الظاهرة المدروسة بدلالة معاملات الارتباط، والأدوات هي الاستبانة والمقياس الخماسي، وانتهى البحث الى مجموعة من النتائج هي:
وجود فروق دالة في أنماط التعرض للفضائيات العراقية بين الشباب العراقي في المحافظات العراقية (مجتمع البحث)، كما جاءت قناة العراقية الاخبارية بالمرتبة الأولى وقناة آفاق بالمرتبة الثانية كقنوات مفضلة لدى الشباب العراقي لمتابعة موضوعات الحشد الشعبي عبر خطابهما الديني، وتأشير ثقة الشباب العراقي بالخطاب الديني في الفضائيات العراقية بدلالة اختبار( كا²) وانعكاسها على تشكيل الاتجاه الإيجابي لديهم نحو الحشد الشعبي، وتجانس إجابات الشباب العراقي بشأن اتفاق الشباب العراقي على معالجات الخطاب الديني لموضوعات الحشد الشعبي في القنوات العراقية، بدلالة تسجيل المتوسطات الحسابية قيما اعلى من الانحرافات المعيارية، وتحقق الفروض والعلاقات الارتباطية بدلالة اختبار (T-Test).
العلاقات السياسية والاجتماعية بين المماليك وبني مرين خلال فترة الاحتلال المغولي للدولة الاسلامية
Authors: هيثم عودة كاظم الربيعي م.م.
Published: January 2024

يتناول البحث العلاقات السياسية والتجارية والدينية بين حكام المماليك وبني مرين في المغرب العربي بعد انتهاء خلافة الموحدين في بلاد المغرب العربي بصورة نهائية على يد بني مرين سنة ( 668هـ), وكان الجناح الشرقي الذي تصدى له أمراء المماليك بعد الاحتلال المغولي لعاصمة الدولة العباسية بغداد, حيث تمثل بسيطرة المماليك على مصر والشام والحجاز ووصل نفوذهم الى بلاد المغرب, والذي دفعهم الى التقارب السياسي والدبلوماسي مع بني مرين لاسيما بعد سقوط الخلافة الاسلامية بيد المغول, وتنازع المماليك وبني حفص من جهة لنيل لقب الشرعية السياسية في العالم الاسلامي, ومحاولة كل من الظاهر بيبرس والمستنصر الحفصي إثبات احقيته في تولي المنصب الروحي, إذ كان الحفصيون من سلالة  الخليفة عمر بن الخطاب أتاح لهم التسمية بلقب الخليفة وبالخصوص بعد مبايعة أمير مكة لهم, مما اقدم المماليك لإحضار أحد أفراد البيت العباسي إلى مصر وإثبات نسبه وتنصيبه خليفة لهم, إذ قام المماليك بمساعدة الحفصيين لاسيما بعد الحملة الصليبية الاوربية بقيادة لويس التاسع على تونس, ومن جانب آخر تدخلهم في شأنهم الداخلي إسوةً بالحفصيين من خلال مساعدة بعض الحركات السياسية المعارضة لهم, مما يذكر طبيعة العلاقات التي سادت بين المماليك والمغرب الاسلامي متفاوتة بين الوفاق والنزاع, تعامل المماليك مع احداث المغرب الاسلامي والصراع الدائر بين القوى الموجودة بروية, لاسيما تميز الواقع الثقافي لدول المغرب والمماليك, لاسيما دور علمائهما قد أسهم في توطيد وتوثيق العلاقات الثقافية بين الشرق والغرب الاسلامي.
تحليل الخطاب النقدي لتمثيل الهوية في الرواية البريطانية "جذور شقراء"
Authors: شهد حميد الباحثة , هاشم علوي محمد الحسيني د.
Published: January 2024

تعنى هذه الدراسة بتحليل نقدي لصراع الهوية في الرواية البريطانية "جذور شقراء" لبرناردين ايفارستو. تتضمن الدراسة تحليل نوعي وحسب نموذج فان دايك (2006) لتحليل الخطاب الأيديولوجي المتبع في هذه الدراسة. تعتمد البيانات على تحليل نقدي للاستراتيجيات المستخدمة لتقديم الهوية في الثقافة البريطانية وتعتبر هذه الدراسة مهمة في إظهار كيفية التلاعب باللغة باستخدام بعض الاستراتيجيات الإيديولوجية الخطابية. وتهدف هذه الدراسة ايضاً لمعرفة لكيفية عرض الذات والاخر لمعرفة المجموعة الاكثر قوة واكثر هيمنة. وتؤكد نتائج هذه الدراسة أن هناك تلاعبًا بلغة الرواية متمثلة في عرض الاوربيين الإيجابي للذات والسلبي للآخر (الأفريقي).
تمثيل الصين في الخطاب الإعلامي الأمريكي فيما يتعلق بجائحة كورونا: تحليل نقدي للخطاب
Authors: علي فليح حسن م.
Published: January 2024

تتناول هذه الدراسة التغطية الإعلامية الأمريكية للصين، وخاصة الرئيس الأمريكي دونالد ترامب، خلال أحداث فيروس كورونا.استخدمت الدراسة منهجية التحليل النقدي للخطاب (CDA) لإجراء التحقيق. تستخدم هذه الدراسة نضرية فان دايك (1998) التى تركز على الأيديولوجية والمنهج الاجتماعي المعرفي. وتم جمع عشر تغريدات حول أزمة كورونا من منصة التواصل الاجتماعي تويتر. وقد خضعت هذه التغريدات الى التحليل باستخدام نموذج فان ديك من أجل استخلاص نتائج المراد معرفتها. تشير نتائج البحث إلى أن رئيس الولايات المتحدة استخدم تقنيات بلاغية مختلفة، مثل اختيار المفردات، واستخدام اللغة المجازية، والافتراضات، والعبارات المحملة، والادعاءات الصريحة، لتصوير الصين بشكل سلبي لعامة الناس. بالإضافة إلى ذلك، استغل الخلاف الرئاسي مع الخصوم السياسيين لتصوير الصين بشكل سلبي، على عكس الإجراءات التي اتخذتها إدارته لمكافحة الفايروس. لقد صورها بشكل إيجابي.
الطريق إلى الإيمان بالعقيدة المسيحية الارثودوكسية من وجهة نظر الكاتب الروسي فيودر ميخائيلوفيتش دستويفسكي
Authors: عبد العزيز ياسين عباس ا.م.د.
Published: January 2024

يعكس هذا المقال موقف الكاتب الروسي الشهير فيودر ميخائيلوفيتش دستويفسكي من إحدى الديانات العالمية الثلاث، , وتحديدا المسيحية الأرثوذكسية.وذلك من خلال توظيف النصوص الدينية  لبلورة نتاجاته الادبية الخالدة.
Cognitive Aging and Cerebrovascular Health: Role of White Matter Lesions and Cardiorespiratory Fitness
Authors: Jain Shivangi , Baller Kelsey , Springer Jenna , Madero Bryan , Sodoma Matthew , Oehler Chris , Daniels Will , Armstrong Matthew K. , Gimblet Colin J. , Nuckols Virginia R. , Muellerleile Michael , Nagarajan Nagalakshmi , Bjarnason Thorarinn , Harb Nidal , Long Jeffrey , Magnotta Vincent , Pierce Gary L. , Voss Michelle
Published: January 2024

Aging is associated with an increase in white matter lesions (WMLs) and decline in cognitive performance. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a modifiable cardiovascular risk factor which is hypothesized to mitigate the accumulation of WMLs and support cognitive aging, and therefore is a possible therapeutic target for intervention. Path analysis approach has not been taken to understand the direct and indirect effects of CRF and WMLs on cognition. Additionally, the effect of CRF on periventricular WMLs (PVWMLs) and deep WMLs (DWMLs) and their effect on cognition has not been examined. We examined these relations in middle-aged and older-aged adults (n=118; 55-80 years); cognitive performance was assessed on measures of processing speed (PS) and executive functions (EF). We hypothesized that after adjusting for sex and education, higher age would be related to lower CRF, more PVWMLs and DWMLs and worse cognitive performance by both the direct path and indirectly through CRF; specifically, higher CRF would be related to less PVWMLs and better cognitive performance directly and indirectly through WMLs; and higher PVWML volume would be associated with poorer cognitive performance. Our hypotheses were partially supported such that age was related to lower CRF, more WMLs, and worse cognitive performance both directly and indirectly; higher CRF was related to less PVWMLs and DWMLs and better performance on measures of EF; only PVWMLs were related to better performance on the measure of EF. The study sets a mechanistic framework to understand the relation between CRF, WMLs, and cognition which can inform future intervention studies.
The adoption of technologies in The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund in propelling its attainment of Vision 2030 goals
Authors: Alqublan Loulwa Fadel
Published: January 2024

This research investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies (DTs) in the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) Vision Realisation Programme (VRP) and their impact on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's progress toward achieving its Vision 2030 strategy. The study employs sentiment, empirical, and semi-empirical analyses to examine the adoption of AI and DTs in the PIF's portfolio companies before and after the inception of Vision 2030. Sentiment analysis is utilised to textually analyse the profiles of PIF's portfolio companies in both periods. Empirical analysis reveals a statistically significant difference in the adoption of AI and DT terminologies. Where empirical evidence was implausible to obtain due to data limitations, semi-empirical analysis is employed, yielding results consistent with the study's hypothesis.This paper extends its focus to the macroeconomic level, demonstrating a positive impact of AI and DTs on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s macroeconomic indicators. Notably, the study challenges existing literature by revealing that AI adoption does not negatively affect employment, providing a novel insight on the relationship between AI and the labour force. This departure from previous literature emphasises the need for further exploration of AI's implications on employment.This study’s key findings align with existing literature on sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), affirming that integrating AI and DTs enhances investment outcomes. While existing literature employs qualitative assessments, this research fills a substantial gap by offering a country-specific empirical analysis of the impact of the PIF on the country’s macroeconomy. The study provides structured analyses, contributing in-depth knowledge on various aspects of broader debates on AI and DT adoption. The inclusive conceptual framework presented in this research suggests avenues for future research and diverse applications across countries.
Analisis Pengaruh Budaya Organisasi dan Motivasi Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Pada Balai Pengembangan Kegiatan Belajar (BPKB) Dinas Pendidikan, Pemuda dan Olahraga Provinsi Papua
Authors: Pasaribu Lisbeth Vrike , Risamasu Ferdinand , Arfusau Wilhelmina A. I.
Published: January 2024

The study aims to (1) determine the effect of simultaneous significant level of organizational culture, motivation for Employee Performance BPKB Papua. (2) To know abaut which variables that have a dominant influence among variables level of organizational culture, employee motivation to Performance BPKB Papua Provice.The research method using sampling survey with random sampling technique using 32 employees BPKB Papua Province. Analysis of the data used by using multiple regression statistics. The hypothesis is (1) The suspect there is a significant effect simultaneously between the culture of the organizational, the motivation for Employee Performance BPKB Papua Province. (2) Allegedly level of organizational culture has a dominant effect compared with the motivation, the Employee Performance BPKB Papua Province.The results showed that: (1) the independent variables include organizational culture, motivation, have significant impact to the Employee Performance BPKB Papua Province. It is evident from the magnitude of the coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.667 means that the contribution of organizational culture, motivation for Employee Performance BPKB Papua Province of 0.667 % and the remaining 32,3 % is influenced by other variables outsite the model study. And Strengthened by the results obtained by ANOVA test count F-30.451>F table is 2.53 then the first hypothesis is accepted (2) In partial variable organization culture has the most dominant influence test results t count 4.432 and partial regression coefficient of 0.717 (71.7 %), for the variable t = 2.577 and partial regression coefficient of 0.353 (35.3%) so that the second hiotesis unsubstantiated.
Unveiling Compassion: Decoding Motivations and Foci in Spanish NGO Foundations
Authors: Ayuba Adegoke , Diego Carlos , Tera Terry
Published: January 2024

Abstract:This research endeavors to unravel the intricate tapestry of motivations and focal areas that propel the initiatives of non-governmental organization (NGO) foundations in Spain. As catalysts for positive change, these foundations play a vital role in addressing societal challenges. Understanding the driving forces behind their endeavors is paramount. Employing a blended methodology of qualitative and quantitative approaches, including interviews, surveys, and case studies, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the diverse motivations and interests shaping the landscape of Spanish NGO foundations.Preliminary findings reveal a spectrum of motivations, ranging from altruistic endeavors to strategic partnerships and advocacy for social and environmental causes. The study identifies key areas of interest, such as education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and social justice, serving as focal points guiding the foundations' endeavors. The interplay between individual passions, organizational goals, and societal needs emerges as a complex yet integral aspect of the NGO foundation landscape.Beyond academic discourse, this research carries implications for policymakers, practitioners, and the general public. By gaining deeper insights into the motivations and interests driving Spanish NGO foundations, stakeholders can forge more effective collaborations, leverage resources, and amplify the collective impact of their efforts towards fostering positive social change. "Unveiling Compassion" invites readers to explore the heart of NGO initiatives, shedding light on the compassionate forces that fuel foundations of change in Spain.
Tempos em movimento
Authors: de Velasco Bárbara M.
Published: January 2024

Este estudo investiga a expressão de tempo na Língua de Sinais Brasileira (Libras), mais precisamente o uso de advérbios de tempo e de expressões não-manuais (ENM) denotando os tempos passado e futuro. Tomamos como pressuposto que a categoria tempo é uma categoria cognitiva, que se manifesta a partir de recursos gramaticais responsáveis pela expressão de temporalidade nas línguas. Neste estudo, pretendemos analisar a (co)ocorrência dos diferentes recursos para a marcação de tempo em Libras. Partimos da hipótese de que os diferentes recursos respondem por propriedades morfossintáticas específicas da estrutura das sentenças na Libras.
Bee sides: Still no clear evidence for an innate left-to-right mental number line
Authors: Pitt Benjamin , Casasanto Daniel , Piantadosi Steven T.
Published: January 2024

In their rebuttal to our letter, Giurfa et al misrepresent our arguments and present counter-arguments that do not address them. Here, we clarify these arguments and why they remain a challenge to the evidence for an innate left-to-right mental number line.
Navigating neurotypical norms in academic research: A perspective from an autistic early career research.
Authors: Phan Jenny Mai
Published: January 2024

The academic research landscape, rich with complexity, reveals its potential for innovation when explored through a neurodiversity lens. This Perspective article presents a nuanced examination of the unique strengths that autistic thinking brings to scholarly pursuits, such as enhanced pattern recognition and systematic rigor—qualities that have personally empowered my own grant writing endeavors. It also confronts the challenges that arise from the prevailing neurotypical standards within the academic milieu. Merging a scholarly review with selective personal insights, this article advocates for a redefinition of scholarly communication and mentorship that is inclusive of neurodiversity. I aim to provide insights and experiences that offer guidance to fellow autistic researchers, their mentors, research institutions, and funding bodies. Drawing from my perspective, I delve into communication complexities, the perennial struggle to conform to neurotypical writing standards, the weight of "imposter syndrome," and the pivotal role that mentors play in supporting and advocating for autistic early career researchers. The recommendations offered herein aim to establish an academic environment that not only welcomes but also leverages the distinctive capabilities of autistic researchers. This perspective aspires to serve as a catalyst for mentors, colleagues, and funding bodies to embrace a more neuroinclusive approach in their practices.
Addressing the Limitations of Graph Neural Networks on Node-level Tasks
Authors: Luan Sitao
Published: January 2024

As a generic data structure, graph is capable of modeling complex relations among objects in many real-world problems. Integrated with deep learning and graph signal processing, Graph Neural Network (GNN) has achieved significant progress for solving large, complex, graph-structured problems in recent decade. GNNs extend basic Neural Network (NN) by incorporating graph structures grounded on the relational inductive bias and have been commonly believed to outperform NNs in real-world tasks. Despite their efficacy, the development of deep and shallow GNNs is confronting two main challenges,• Limited expressive power of deep GNNs: Since graph convolution can be considered as a special form of Laplacian smoothing, stacking multiple GNN layers like the way as deep NNs can lead to an over-smoothing issue, where distant nodes become less identifiable and hard to be discriminated;• Performance degradation of shallow GNNs on heterophilic graphs: When the homophily principle is absent and nodes from different classes are more likely to be connected, the representation of nodes from distinct classes will be erroneously blending, leading nodes to be indistinguishable.In this dissertation, we will delve into these two obstacles in depth, analyzing themthoroughly and proposing methods to address them efficiently.
Surgical audit of minimally invasive adrenalectomy - A retrospective observational study
Authors: Minal S Sonune  , Abhay S Dalvi  , Abhijit D Ninghot
Published: January 2024

Background: The laparoscopic adrenalectomy technique is currently the standard of care for resecting small benign adrenal lesions in most countries. Some of the reported benefits of laparoscopic adrenalectomy are similar to the benefits of minimally invasive surgery.
Aims and Objectives: The objective is to study the types of adrenal tumors and to review outcomes of minimally invasive adrenalectomies.
Materials and Methods: In this retrospective observational study, records of 306 patients undergoing minimally invasive adrenalectomy from January 01, 2001 to September 30, 2019, were analyzed.
Results: The types of adrenal tumors were found in patients were adrenal adenoma (38), adrenal Cushing’s (47), adrenal carcinoma (14), and pheochromocytoma (207). Pheochromocytoma was the most common type of tumor seen in 68% of the cases. Intensive care unit was required in case of 59 patients while inotropic support was needed for 58 patients while 6 patients required a ventilator in the immediate post-operative period. Surgical site infection was encountered in 29 patients following minimally invasive adrenalectomy. Fever was seen in 18 patients. Pneumonia was the early post-operative complication in 12 patients while paralytic ileus was encountered in 25 patients. Synchronous metastasis to lymph nodes was seen in 12 and tumor bed recurrence was seen in 12 cases each following adrenalectomy.
Conclusion: Minimally invasive techniques cause less trauma to patients, have superior visualization, decreased post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, an earlier return to work and normal activity, and fewer perioperative and post-operative complications.
Clinical and dermoscopic profile of female pattern hair loss
Authors: Deepa John  , Seena Palakkal  , Mary Vineetha
Published: January 2024

Background: Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is one of the hair loss disorders in women characterized by a gradual reduction in hair from the frontal, central, and parietal areas of the scalp. FPHL is more common than previously thought, and data regarding the same are lacking in the Indian literature. Unlike male pattern hair loss, there are not much studies regarding FPHL in South India. Hence, we intend to study the clinical features, associations, and dermoscopic findings of FPHL in our population.
Aims and Objectives: The study was conducted to estimate the clinical and dermoscopic features of FPHL. The secondary objective of the study was to estimate the severity of FPHL based on clinical and dermoscopic features.
Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 300 patients who were clinically diagnosed with FPHL attending the Department of Dermatology, Government Medical College, Kottayam, during a period of 18 months from February 2021 to August 2022.
Results: The mean age of patients with FPHL was 46.99±13.8 years. The majority of the patients were asymptomatic. Hair diameter diversity of >20% and miniaturized hair were the most common dermoscopic findings seen in all patients. Honeycombing and yew dots in dermoscopy were seen in 17 and 8.4% of patients, respectively.
Conclusion: Dermoscopes are a useful tool to differentiate FPHL from other causes of diffuse hair loss that could mimic FPHL. The presence of yellow dots and honeycombs indicated advanced FPHL. Thus, dermoscopy helps in detecting early FPHL and initiating early treatment of this condition.
Comparison of quality of life between pre- and post-operative standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy using Short Form-36
Authors: Nikhil Nakhate  , Neeraj Kumar Banoria  , Pankaj Saunakiya  , Nalin Kumar  , Jatin Chauhan  , Shibin Geroge
Published: January 2024

Background: Gallstone disease (cholelithiasis) is a wide spectrum of conditions, ranging from asymptomatic cholelithiasis, biliary colic, empyema gallbladder, and gangrene to perforation and peritonitis.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the quality of life before and after a standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) using the Short Form-36 (SF-36).
Materials and Methods: In the study cohort of 100 patients using SF-36 in patients of pre-operative and post-operative standard LC are compared in eight domains of health quality index in Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Jhansi between January 2021 and June 2022.
Results: There is finding of significant change in seven domains in mean±1 month, (1) Physical functioning – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 33.00±31.812 and 88.68±22.40, respectively, (2) Role limitations due to physical health – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 3.5±18.401 and 98.75±10.546, respectively, (3) Role limitations due to emotional problems – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 4.67±21.128 and 98.67±11.489, respectively, (4) Energy/fatigue- pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 34.94±16.638 and 83.11±12.456, respectively, (5) Social pre-operative functioning – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 39.38±20.428 and 98.88±5.196 respectively, (6) Pain – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 34.73±18.340 and 97.30±15.489, respectively, (7) General health – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 35.85±35.897 and 67.00±35.511, respectively, and minimal change in one domain (8) Emotional well-being – pre-operative and post-operative, that is, 34.16±15.491 and 39.08±18.694.
Conclusion: The pre-operative and post-operative parameters of the SF-36 questionnaire show a significant change in their mean±standard deviation at 1-month postoperatively following standard LC. The maximum significant change occurred in parameters of physical functioning, role emotion, role physical, energy, social functioning, pain, and general health.
A study on phenotypic characterization and genotypic determination of drug resistance of Helicobacter pylori from cases of acid peptic disease in a tertiary care center
Authors: Palaneswamy Savetha  , Rajesh Samuel Ajit George  , Ravin Devasir Sathyaseelan  , Malini Evangeline Rose. C  , Noor Mohamed Rasik B
Published: January 2024

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is one of the major risk factors for gastroduodenal disease, and invasive or non-invasive tests are available to detect it.
Aims and Objectives: The study aims to identify H. pylori phenotypically and genotypically to identify drug-resistant H. pylori in suspected cases of peptic acid disorders at a tertiary care center.
Materials and Methods: This 6-month prospective and observational study was performed at Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals. Patients’ gastric biopsy samples were obtained from 105 individuals with gastroduodenal disorders who had upper gastrointestinal endoscopies at the Hospital. A fiber optic endoscope and biopsy forceps were used for the endoscopy. Biopsy samples were collected from the antrum and placed in Eppendorf tubes for fast urease, culture, gram stain, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and histological analysis.
Results: A total of 78 (74%) males and 27 (26%) females were among the 105 patients. Endoscopic findings imply gastritis, gastric ulcer, and duodenal ulcer in 74 patients (70.48%). Rapid urease test (RUT), gram stain, and histology revealed positive results in 20 cases. RUT showed that 30.47% of patients tested positive. Gram stain detected 25.1% of H. pylori infections, and 12 cases were histopathologically positive. By PCR, 21.62% of gastritis patients were positive for H. pylori infection. RUT and PCR give comparable results for detecting H. pylori infection, with a strong association between H. pylori infection and peptic ulcer disease.
Conclusion: A combination of RUT and PCR is an effective diagnostic approach for H. pylori infection, allowing doctors to select the most appropriate medications for specific patients.
Role of fine-needle aspiration cytology in the evaluation of salivary gland lesion with utilization of Milan system for reporting
Authors: Alka Ambedkar  , Rashmi Nayak  , Mangeet Dhurve  , Kavita Sachdewa  , Jagmohan Singh Dhakar
Published: January 2024

Background: Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) plays a role in the pre-operative diagnosis of salivary gland mass lesion. Salivary gland neoplasm accounts for 6% of all head and neck tumors. It is widely used safe and relatively non-traumatic procedure that can quickly provide important information. “The Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology” (MSRSGC) was introduced, providing a guide for diagnosis and management according to the risk of malignancy (ROM) in different categories.
Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study are as follows: (1) To evaluate different types of salivary gland lesion in tertiary care center. (2) To see application of Milan system in the present scenario.
Materials and Methods: A hospital-based and prospective study was conducted between March 2021 and September 2022 on all cases of salivary gland lesions who were referred for FNAC to the Department of Pathology at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College Hospital in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. In the present study, we categorize salivary gland cytopathology result as per Milan system (MSRSGC) and calculated diagnostic accuracy and ROM in each category of Milan system (MSRSGC).
Results: Seventy seven cases distributed according to Milan category as follows: Non-diagnostic (ND) (2.59), non-neoplastic (NN) (29.33%), atypia of undetermined significance (AUS) (1.29%), 4a. Benign (29.87%), 4b. Salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential (SUMP) (1.29%), suspicious of malignancy (SOM) (1.29%), and malignancy (10.38%). Out of 77 cases, histological follow-up was available in 27 cases and the ROM was calculated. The ROM for each category of the Milan system is as follows: ND (0%), NN (6.66%), AUS (100%), 4a. Benign (9.09%), 4b. SUMP (0%), SOM (100%), and Malignancy (100%). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy were 77.7%, 100%, 100%, 92.59%, and 94.11%.
Conclusion: FNAC of the salivary gland lesions is a safe, minimum invasive, and reliable diagnostic procedure. The Milan system of reporting is a risk stratification system which can improve the overall effectiveness of reporting.
Surgical management of renal calculi in cases of crossed renal ectopia: A rare case series
Authors: Ponnusamy Periasamy , K Senthil Kumar , D Tamilselvan , Shreyas MD
Published: January 2024

Crossed renal ectopia is a rare congenital malformation. Only 36 cases of crossed renal ectopia with calculus have been recorded in literature, even a few cases of urolithiasis in them have been surgically managed. The majority of cases in literature have been published as single case reports. We conducted a retrospective study of all the crossed renal ectopia cases admitted and managed in our department in the past 2 years. Among them, only one was without fusion. Youngest patient was 32-year-old male with crossed left kidney with calculus in the left kidney. Both the patients underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Oldest patient was 80-year-old female with a right crossed kidney with pelvic calculus, who underwent open pyelolithotomy. Post-operative period was uneventful in all cases with complete stone clearance. Patients undergoing RIRS had less post-operative pain and were discharged early compared to open pyelolithotomy. RIRS is a safe and effective modality of treatment and can be considered as the first choice for the management of calculus in crossed renal ectopia in properly selected cases. However, in cases of huge stone burden and difficult anatomy, laparoscopic/open pyelolithotomy is still an attractive option for clearing the stone in a single setting, even though it has comparatively more morbidity and longer hospital stay.
Umbilical cord arterial blood pH an indicator of rise in cesarean section rate due to false-positive indications by CTG
Authors: Ruqiya Rashid  , Bashir Khushbu , Faizah Mufti
Published: January 2024

Background: Cesarean section rate is rising globally, now accounting for more than 1 in 5 (21%) of all childbirths. This number is set to continue increasing over the coming decade unless the factors which increase the rate of cesarean section are kept in check. Intrapartum cardiotocography (CTG) has shown a false-positive rate of cesarean section. This has been correlated with neonatal umbilical cord blood pH analysis.
Aims and Objectives: (1) Correlation of non-reassuring CTG, resulting in cesarean section with umbilical cord arterial blood pH. (2) To find the false-positive indications of cesarean section due to CTG.
Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of SKIMS, Soura, from September 2020 to July 2022 over a period of 22 months. Women with a gestational age of more than 34 weeks with singleton pregnancy were included in the study. Those with CTG-documented fetal distress were subjected to umbilical cord arterial blood pH monitoring.
Results: A total of 85 patients underwent cesarean sections in view of fetal distress documented by CTG, but only 45 neonates had actual distress as documented by umbilical cord blood sampling.
Conclusion: Social and non-medical factors no doubt have caused an alarming rise in cesarean sections, but at the same time, there are some iatrogenic causes, namely CTG, which lead to the rise in the cesarean section rate due to false-positive indications. This has been further supported by the fact that the pH of the umbilical cord blood of neonates with intrapartum non-reassuring CTG does not correspond to fetal acidemia in all cases. Hence, a significant number of cesarean sections is being done for false-positive indications.
A cocktail of usual and unusual presentation of cutaneous tumors – A case series
Authors: Maroo Vandana , Singha Roy Debajyoti , Mukherjee Sanghamitra , Mandal Meghadipa
Published: January 2024

Epidermal cutaneous tumors represent an enormous group of tumors, which can be classified as both benign and malignant, and primary and secondary. In this case series, there are six cases of such tumors encountered in a health-care center of Eastern India. The histopathological examination IS mainstay of reporting in some cases; however, other cases do require a supplementary immunohistochemistry or electron microscopy for confirmatory diagnosis. The childhood lesions should not be ignored, as it may present as metastasis many years later.
Prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases producing isolates obtained from patients of pediatric critical care unit in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Banerjee Sohini , Majumder Monalisa , Biswas Tanusri , Mandira Mukherjee  , Ghosh Purbasha , Sikder Ipsita , Sayeda Azra Zabin
Published: January 2024

Background: Over the past decades, antibiotic-resistant Gram-negative bacteria commonly Enterobacteriaceae such as Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae have increased significantly. These microorganisms have great clinical importance because they increase hospital stay of the patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) leading to high morbidity and mortality. Because of their role in increasing morbidity and mortality, this study was performed to isolate extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Gram-negative bacilli screened by phenotypical method and further projected into molecular characterization by polymerase chain reaction.
Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives are to isolate the Gram-negative multidrug-resistant strains from clinically suspected bacterial infections in patients of neonatal, sick newborn, and pediatric ICU and to study antibiotic sensitivity pattern of isolated Gram-negative multidrug-resistant strains with special reference to molecular characterization.
Materials and Methods: A total of 100 Gram-negative bacilli were isolated. Screening of ESBL positivity was done by double-disk synergy test (combined disc test method). Their antibiogram profile was interpreted. With the use of designed primers, 26 ESBL isolates each of E. coli and Klebsiella spp. were processed for molecular analysis of beta-lactamase family genes TEM and CTX-M.
Results: Within the 100 samples, majority of the isolates (45%) were Klebsiella spp. and 40% was E. coli isolates. Highest ESBL-producing organisms were observed within E. coli (65%). Prevalence bla-TEM gene was highest followed by bla-CTX-M. These ESBL-producing organisms were found to be resistant to multiple classes of antibiotics. With extensive ESBL surveillance and proper usage of antibiotics, this threatening rise of antibiotic resistance can be mitigated.
Conclusion: Gram-negative isolates showed high resistance to commonly used antibiotics. Significant proportions of them were MDR strains. Such high antibiotic resistance is associated with significant morbidity and mortality among pediatric population. MDR along with possession of ESBL associated resistance genes among Gram-negative bacilli pose a serious problem in therapeutic management of patients. Our study signifies that there is a high probability of Gram- negative bacilli to be multi-drug resistant and ESBL positive and earliest detection of such cases should be made.
An open-label prospective observational study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of alternate day versus daily dosing of atorvastatin in patients of dyslipidemia
Authors: Gulam Mohammad  , Shivangna Singh  , Priti Singh  , Gautam Vivek , Vijai Ananth Pitchai Pillai
Published: January 2024

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is a main driver of atherosclerosis. Cholesterol-containing lipoproteins induce endothelial dysfunction and macrophage activation. Foam cell formation results from the uptake of cholesterol-containing lipoproteins by macrophages, it is an essential step in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis.
Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of alternate day versus daily dosing of atorvastatin in patients with dyslipidemia.
Materials and Methods: This open-label, prospective, observational study was conducted on dyslipidemic patients who came into the medicine Outpatient Department of Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan Medical College and Hospital, Tamil Nadu. Approval for the study was taken from the Institutional Ethical Committee. The duration of the study was 3 months. The efficacy of atorvastatin was checked by noting their blood lipid profile status.
Results: Out of 100 patients included in the study 79 completed the study whereas 21 patients were lost in follow-up, 42 patients were analyzed in daily dose (Group A), and 37 patients in alternate dose (Group B) of atorvastatin (20 mg). There was no statistically significant difference based on triglyceride, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein levels both prior and post-treatment in both the groups. Adverse drug reactions (ADR) profile showed a statistically significant difference between both the groups after treatment by atorvastatin (P=0.0001), with more ADRs noted in a daily dosing group.
Conclusion: The results of this study show that alternate dosing of atorvastatin was better tolerated than daily dosing hence physicians can consider choosing an alternate day therapy to reduce pill burden on patients.
Induction of abortion in the first trimester of pregnancy using letrozole and misoprostol combination versus misoprostol alone - A comparative observational study
Authors: Swarnali Biswas  , Mallika Sengupta  , Debdatta Ghosh  , Rajesh Rajesh De
Published: January 2024

Background: Medical abortion is safer than surgical abortion. Several studies have shown that combination of antiprogesterone drug mifepristone and prostaglandin misoprostol can increase complete abortion rate in medical management of first-trimester miscarriage compared to misoprostol alone. Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has emerged as an alternative to mifepristone for induction of medical abortion as mifepristone is expensive and not registered in many countries.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined regimen of letrozole and misoprostol in first-trimester medical abortion compared to misoprostol alone.
Materials and Methods: It was a comparative observational study conducted at R. G. Kar Medical College, a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal, India. The study population was the antenatal mothers booked at antenatal clinic willing for termination of pregnancy at <12 weeks of gestational age. Participants were allocated, 39 in each group in a non-randomized manner. Patients in one group (Group A) were posted for medical abortion with combination regimen of tablet letrozole (10 mg) once daily for 3 days followed by application of tablet misoprostol 800 mcg sublingually on day 4. In other group (Group B), patients were on misoprostol-only regimen with the application of tablet misoprostol 800 mcg sublingually.
Results: Induction-abortion time was significantly less in the letrozole group (11±0.79 h) than the misoprostol group (13.23±0.81 h), P=0.0001. Complete abortion rate was significantly higher in the letrozole group compared to misoprostol group (84.62% and 64.10%, respectively, P=0.03). 15.38% patients in the letrozole group and 35.90% patients in the misoprostol group had excessive vaginal bleeding and the difference was statistically significant, P=0.03. The duration of vaginal bleeding was also significantly less in the letrozole group (2.45±0.29 days) than the misoprostol group (2.82±0.37 days), P<0.0001. Incidence of side-effects was comparable and the severity of side-effects was not significantly different between the groups.
Conclusion: Letrozole and misoprostol combination regimen leads to significant increase in complete abortion rate and also significant reduction of the duration of vaginal bleeding, induction-abortion time, and need for surgical intervention when compared to misoprostol regimen.
Assessment of plasma B-type natriuretic peptide and highly sensitive C- reactive protein among diagnosed patients of diabetes mellitus with and without cardiovascular disease
Authors: Smriti Rai  , Mingma Lhamu Sherpa  , Bidita Khandelwal  , Sameer Bhandari  , Richen Doma Bhutia
Published: January 2024

Background: Considering the burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) complications in patients with diabetes and the production of BNP on the incidence of CVD.
Aims and Objectives: We investigated the role of BNP and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in predicting the presence of CVD in diabetes and determined if the concentration load of BNP and hs-CRP differed in diabetics participants with CVD and without CVD.
Materials and Methods: Diabetic consenting participants fitting the study inclusion criteria were enrolled. Based on medical records, participants were grouped into diabetes with CVD and diabetes without CVD and tested for blood BNP, hs-CRP, Lipid Profile, and hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C).
Results: Diabetes mellitus (DM) was relatively higher in the age group of 51–60 years with female preponderance. Ethnic distribution demonstrated a high percentage of DM among the Sikkimese Nepalese, followed by Bhutias, and Lepchas. On ascertaining the effects of BNP and hs-CRP on the likelihood that the diabetic participants have CVD, only BNP demonstrated statistical significance. However, unlike hs-CRP, BNP exhibited no association with HbA1C and lipid parameters. BNP and hs-CRP levels were higher among diabetics with CVD when compared to diabetics without CVD.
Conclusion: Increasing BNP levels in diabetes is associated with an increased likelihood of exhibiting CVD but increasing hs-CRP level may not be associated with an increased likelihood of exhibiting CVD. Increase in BNP levels independent of influence by HbA1C and lipid profile should be investigated further and yet importantly diabetes with CVD exhibits extra inflammatory load (hs-CRP) comparedto diabetes without CVDs.
CURING CONDITIONS IMPACT THE PROPERTIES OF A MODIFIED GEOPOLYMER MORTAR
Authors: Jabbar Rusul , Kamal Hamza M.
Published: January 2024

The present work provides an experimental study for preparing eco-friendly geopolymer mortar based on ground granulated blasted furnace slags with good mechanical properties and durability. This work studied the effect of silica fume reactive powder as a replacement material for slag weight with constant weight ratios of 20% on geopolymer mortar’s mechanical tests. The geopolymer mixtures were prepared with (15M) NaOH solution and a (2.5:1) ratio of (Na2SiO3/NaOH). The samples were cured at ambient conditions at different times of 7 and 28 days and a high temperature of 70°C in a furnace for three hours. It was found from the obtained results that silica fume played a vital role in improving all these properties by enhancing the degree of the silicate ion geopolymerization reaction in the alkaline solution. In addition, the curing process greatly impacted the geopolymers’ features. The properties improve significantly with increasing the curing time and temperature, especially when cured at high temperatures, compared to ambient curing.
PERFORMANCE OF CONCRETE SLAB REINFORCED BY CFRP BARS AND STRENGTHENED BY DIFFERENT LAYOUT OF CFRP LAMINATES
Authors: Najm Abed Entidhar , Medhlom Mu'taz Kadhim
Published: January 2024

In recent years, Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) rebar has been adopted to reinforce structural concrete elements such as slabs. FRP strips are also increasingly used to reinforce or strengthen concrete members that require higher carrying capacity or to restore damaged structural elements. Therefore, the reinforcement of concrete structures with this material is increasing but the effect of variables on CFRP-reinforced concrete slabs and externally bonded with CFRP laminates has not been evaluated in detail. This study presents a numerical analysis of the structural performance of concrete slabs reinforced by CFRP bars and strengthened by CFRP laminates using a finite element approach with ANSYS software. Six models with the same geometry (1550x1550x100 mm) were analyzed. Four models were reinforced with CFRP bars and externally strengthened with CFRP laminates, one model was reinforced with CFRP bars without external strength, and one reference model with traditional reinforcing bars (control specimen). Different parameters were adopted, such as amounts of FRP bars and CFRP laminates layout in which some models contained both CFRP bars and CFRP laminates. A uniformly distributed load that was calculated by plastic analysis was applied at the top surface area of each model. The plastic load considers the contribution of the laminated CFRP strips that increased the strength of the slab. Analysis results in the maximum strength carrying capacity in equivalent CFRP bars exhibit higher strength percentages of 5.07% of load capacity but differed in mode of failure than conventional reinforcements control slab.
INVESTIGATION OF ENHANCED ELECTROCOAGULATION-MEMBRANE PROCESS FOR WATER RECLAMATION FROM PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENTS
Authors: Amina Tahreen  , Jami Mohammed Saedi , Ali Fathilah , NIK RASHIDA NIK ABDUL GHANI  , Nedjai Radhia
Published: January 2024

The process of electrocoagulation (EC) enhanced with adsorbent addition, as a pre-treatment for ultrafiltration membrane, is widely unexplored in oil palm-based wastewater treatment. Utilizing predetermined EC operational parameters and a defined activated carbon (AC) dosage for biotreated palm oil mill effluents (BPOME), membrane fouling was studied during crossflow membrane filtration at 0.5 bar transmembrane pressure and 1 kDa membrane pore size. The dominant fouling mechanism in membrane filtration without EC-AC pretreatment of BPOME, was cake formation, which was determined through Hermia’s pore blocking models. However, after EC-AC pre-treatment, the membrane fouling was mitigated. Moreover, the pre-treatment process, AC assisted EC, sustainably enhanced the final treated effluent quality in addition to enhancing fouling mitigation in the subsequent membrane filtration. The removal of Total Suspended Solids (TSS), turbidity and color were nearly 100% and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) was 99.7% removed with final value of 5±1 mg/L, which is within the range of reusable water standards.
ABSTRAK: Proses elektrokoagulasi (EC) yang ditingkatkan dengan bahan penyerap, adalah pra-rawatan bagi membran penuras ultra. Walau bagaimanapun ianya masih belum luas diterokai dalam sistem rawatan air buangan berasaskan kelapa sawit. Mengguna pakai parameter operasi EC pra-tentu dan dos karbon aktif tentu (AC) bagi bio-rawatan efluen kilang kelapa sawit yang terawat (BPOME), mendakan membran telah dikaji menggunakan teknik penurasan membran aliran silang pada tekanan transmembran 0.5 bar dan saiz liang membran 1 kDa. Mekanisme mendakan membran kotoran dominan dalam penurasan membran tanpa pra-rawatan EC-AC BPOME, adalah pembentukan kek, iaitu terhasil melalui model penyumbatan liang Hermia. Walau bagaimanapun, selepas pra-rawatan EC-AC, mendakan kotoran membran  dapat dikurangkan. Tambahan, proses pra-rawatan AC-EC, secara mampan dapat menambah kualiti akhir efluen terawat selain dapat meningkatkan mitigasi kotoran mendakan dalam penurasan membran seterusnya. Penyingkiran Total Pepejal Terampai (TSS) adalah 99.7%, kekeruhan dan warna adalah hampir 100%. Keperluan Oksigen Kimia (COD) tersingkir sebanyak 99.7% dengan nilai akhir sebanyak 5±1 mg/L, iaitu dalam julat piawaian air boleh guna semula.