bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental control system (ECS) design approach for collective nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection in military aircraft: A review
Authors:   Türk Havacılık Uzay Sanayi (TUSAŞ), Ankara, Türkiye, Güler Emre
Published: March 2024

This comprehensive review paper delves into Environmental Control System (ECS) design strategies tailored for collective Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical (NBC) protection in military aircraft, exploring key elements such as hardening, air-tight construction, and filtering within the framework of open-loop or closed-loop ECS configurations. Initially, the paper elucidates the NBC protection requirements stipulated in commonly applied regulations such as MIL-HDBK-516C, DEFSTAN, and EMACC, highlighting the imperative for ventilation air to be devoid of contaminants, as mandated by these regulations. Subsequently, the paper delineates the strategic framework for NBC defense in the military aerospace industry, emphasizing the principles of avoidance, protection, and decontamination. A comparative analysis between individual and collective protection strategies underscores the comprehensiveness of the latter, prompting a recommendation for ECS design approaches grounded in the principles of collective protection, namely hardening, air-tight construction, and filtering. Furthermore, the paper provides insights into the configurations of open-loop and partial closed-loop ECS, elucidating their architectures for NBC protection. A comparative evaluation of these configurations enables the identification of pertinent parameters crucial for informed selection. In conclusion, the paper posits that the partial closed-loop ECS configuration exhibits greater promise in delivering enhanced NBC protection compared to the open-loop configuration, particularly in military aircraft applications operating in NBC environments.
Снижение проявления визуальных артефактов при использовании трехмерных таблиц преобразования цветов с учетом расширенного динамического диапазона
Authors:   Университет ИТМО, Меженин А.В. , Паук М.А. ,   Университет ИТМО
Published: March 2024

В области компьютерной обработки визуальных материалов с использованием таблиц преобразования цветов (далее LUT — Look Up Table) при их применении возможно возникновение визуальных артефактов. Данная работа посвящена исследованию методов, которые позволят использовать 3D-LUT для HDR (High Dynamic Range, технология расширенного динамического диапазона) изображений с минимальным проявлением визуальных артефактов. Были созданы LUT-ы в программном обеспечении 3D LUT Creator, а затем были изменены значения цветов внутри каждого с помощью программы, написанной на основе существующего алгоритма [1]. В ходе исследования проверялось, насколько применение LUT-ов разного размера (а конкретно — размером 8, 16 и 25 по каждой оси цветового пространства RGB) к изображению влияет на его восприятие зрителем (респондентом) и возможное проявление визуальных артефактов. Размер выборки составил 45 человек. Респондентам было предложено выбрать из четырех групп тестовых изображений одно изображение, которое лучше всего, по их мнению, справилось с задачей (затемнение или осветление изображения, поскольку в них чаще всего и проявляются уязвимости LUT), а также оценить каждое изображение в группе по отдельности. В каждой группе проверялась гипотеза о влияние размера LUT на выбор — респонденты будут чаще всего выбирать LUT размером 25х25х25 (далее 25); поскольку, чем выше размер LUT, тем реже появляются визуальные артефакты. Основным целевым показателем был выбор между тремя изображениями, для каждой группы он рассчитывался отдельно и был представлен в виде дихотомической шкалы, где 0 — выбран LUT не размером 25 и 1 — выбран LUT размером 25. Результатом исследования стало подтверждение гипотез во всех группах изображений (считаются статистически значимыми).
Physical rehabilitation of children with perinatal lesion of the central nervous system
Authors: Khan Maya A. , Degtyareva Maria  G. , Mikitchenko Natalya A. , Vakhova Ekaterina L. , Troyanovskaya Evgeniya A. , Gomenyuk Elizaveta U.
Published: March 2024

The relevance and social significance of the problem of medical rehabilitation of children with perinatal damage to the central nervous system is determined by the high prevalence of this pathology and the possibility of severe disabling diseases in such children. In the complex treatment of such patients, preference is given to non-drug methods. The leading place in the system of rehabilitation measures for children with perinatal central nervous system damage belongs to kinesiotherapy technologies, as the most gentle and pathogenetically justified.
To study the results of research conducted by Russian and foreign authors on the issues of physical rehabilitation of children with perinatal damage to the central nervous system and to conduct an analysis of the effectiveness of the proposed technologies. The literature review for this article was conducted from the eLibrary, PubMed, Cochrane Library databases with a search depth of 20 years. The selection of publications was carried out using keywords: medical rehabilitation, non-drug technologies, perinatal damage to the central nervous system; perinatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, kinesotherapy, neurodevelopmental therapy, massage, thin finger training method, dry immersion, fitball gymnastics, Vojta therapy; Bobat therapy.
Dependence of cytokine concentration in coproextracts in children with inflammatory bowel diseases on disease activity
Authors: Toptygina Anna P. , Semikina Elena L. , Tsvetkova Valeria S. , Krasnovidova Anastasia E. , Potapov Alexander S.
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND: Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) affect more than 6.8 million people. The key factor in the immunopathogenesis of these diseases is the intestinal wall infiltration by various immunocompetent cells and their proinflammatory cytokine production.
AIM: To compare the levels of 14 cytokines in the coproextracts of patients with IBD with various disease activities.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The examined cohort comprised 30 children with CD, 33 with UC, and 20 healthy children (control group). UC and CD were diagnosed based on generally accepted clinical and endoscopic criteria. The concentrations of 14 cytokines (IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-25, IL-31, IL-33, IFN-γ, and TNF) in aqueous-salt coproextrates were determined using the multiplex method (MagPix, BioRad, USA).
RESULTS: The levels of all studied cytokines were significantly increased in all sick children, even in remission, compared with the control group. The concentration of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and IL-17F) consistently decreased with the decrease in disease activity in the coproextracts of patients with CD and UC. Furthermore, the IL-22, IL-33, and IL-10 levels increased as the inflammation activity decreased.
CONCLUSIONS: The lack of normalization of cytokine levels in remission raises the question of the need for further study of IBD immunopathogenesis and the search for new therapeutic approaches.
Clinical mixed dissociative and post-traumatic stress disorders in a 10-year-old boy after a traffic accident
Authors: Mendelevich Vladimir D. , Sitdikov Gazinur A. , Abakarov Radzhab R.
Published: March 2024

The article presents the clinical case of 10-year-old Karim, whose behavior and mental status changed after a traffic accident in which the boy was hit by a car (without loss of consciousness and without traumatic brain injury). In addition to various motor paroxysms (convulsions) that did not meet the criteria for epileptic symptoms, the clinical picture included wave-like psychopathological symptoms and inappropriate behavior. The clinical picture could not be clearly attributed to the manifestation of dissociative disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder. Within two months after the accident, the clinical picture worsened — the "light intervals" during which Karim was completely adequate and critical became less frequent. Neurologists rejected the organic (epileptic) basis of the paroxysmal states. Examination and treatment by psychiatrists did not lead to stabilization of the mental state. In the opinion of the authors, the clinical case belongs to a rare polysyndromic variant of the dissociative subtype of PTSD, not described in the scientific literature, in which a mixture of various psychopathological symptoms was found - dissociative motor paroxysms, Ganser's syndrome, astasia-abasia, onirism, and flashbacks.
Does new knowledge allow to improve the diagnosis of mental disorders: the problem of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis?
Authors: Shmukler Alexander B.
Published: March 2024

A narrative review of research studies discusses the clinical features, differential diagnosis, and treatment of anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis. Special attention is given to the controversial aspects of the etiology and pathogenesis of this disorder. The need for further research into on the role of antibodies to NMDA receptors in the development of psychiatric disorders is emphasized.
Long-term bisphosphonates use and atypical femoral fracture
Authors: Bakhtiyarova Gaukhar , Tınazlı Mehtap , Aydın Deniz
Published: March 2024

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disorder characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration, increasing the risk of fractures. As the global incidence of osteoporosis rises, it has become a pressing concern for healthcare professionals. Long-term use of bisphosphonates (BPs), commonly prescribed for osteoporosis, has been associated with atypical femur fractures (AFFs). While AFFs are relatively rare, they are a serious concern due to their potential complications.
Turkish adaptation of the Fall Prevention Knowledge Test
Authors: Basit Gülden , Köse Semra
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aims to test the Turkish validity and reliability of the Fall Prevention Knowledge Test assessing the knowledge level of nurses in the clinical setting regarding fall prevention.

Materials and Methods: This study was carried out with nurses working at a university hospital between 16 February and 31 March 2022. The study group consisted of 250 nurses, who had been working as nurses for at least six months and voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. The study data was collected by using The Nurse Information Form and Fall Prevention Knowledge Test. Content validity, item difficulty and item discrimination indices, KR-20 coefficient, and intra-class correlation coefficient were used in the data analyses.

Results: It was determined that 75.2% of the nurses participating in the study were female, 50.8% were married, and 75.6% had a bachelor’s degree. The mean age of the nurses participating in the present study was 29.22±6.55 years, the mean work experience was 6.84±6.60 years, and the mean weekly working hours were 44.10±6.76 hours. It was found that 96.8% of the nurses knew about the risk of fall, and 96.0% knew about fall prevention practices. The content validity index of the test was found to be 0.836 and the KR-20 reliability coefficient for the scale was calculated to be 0.713.

Conclusions: The Fall Prevention Knowledge Test (11 items) is a valid and reliable test for measuring the knowledge level of nurses working in hospitals in Türkiye.
Effects of hippotherapy on upper extremity functions in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Demir Oğuzhan Bahadır , Taşkın Yılmaz Feride , Kablanoğlu Serkan , Balıkçı Erdener , Dursun Erbil
Published: March 2024

Purpose: The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of hippotherapy on upper extremity functions in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Materials and Methods: The study was carried out with a quasi-hippotherapy design by evaluating the hippotherapy and control groups with pretests and posttests. Sixteen children with CP who were treated with 30 minutes of additional hippotherapy three times a week for five weeks were included in the hippotherapy group. Eleven children with CP who had conventional physiotherapy were recruited for the control group. Upper extremity functions were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Box and Block Test (BBT) and the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT).

Results: There were no significant differences between the hippotherapy and control groups in terms of their baseline BBT and JTHFT scores. After 5-weeks, no statistically significant difference was found between the BBT scores of the hippotherapy and control groups. Significant increases were detected in all parameters of JTHFT in the posttest in the hippotherapy group, compared to the pretest. Moreover, in the posttest, a statistically significant difference was found between the hippotherapy and control groups in the parameters of turning over cards and picking up small objects, which subscales of JTHFT.

Conclusion: In children with CP, hippotherapy provided in addition to conventional treatment was an effective practice, especially in improving fine motor skills in the hands.
COVID-19 and progress in therapeutic approaches: a narrative review
Authors: Ilyas Umair , Jadoon Sarmad Sheraz , Ahmed Tanzeel , Altaf Reem , Khan Aslam , Ahmad Ashfaq , Rasool Yasir , Masaud Syed Muzzammil , Khan Zakir
Published: March 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), scientifically known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-Cov-2) has adversely affect the respiratory system of humans and badly crushed the economies of most developed countries. This study aims to investigate the current COVID-19 situation and therapeutic approaches including non-viral vaccines, efficacy, safety, their trials, dosage protocols and mass vaccination established for COVID-19. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE databases. The title of the research articles were reviewed first, followed by the abstracts and finally the complete studies. This review critically focuses on the damaging effects of COVID-19 and its mutations, multiple variants, pharmacological approaches, and mRNA vaccines. COVID-19 is an emerging new variant with a different mutation and altered genomic structure. Different pharmacological and therapeutic approaches (interferon, oligonucleotides, anti-viral drug molecules, antibody peptides) have been made so far to combat COVID-19. Interferons are employed in COVID-19 treatment approaches owing to the role of Type I interferons in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Along with these therapeutic methodologies, companies from all over the world participated in the run to develop a vaccine for COVID-19. Vaccines were developed in less than a year for vaccinating humans on a mass level for the first time in world history. These vaccines target structural components of the virus, such as membrane proteins with a spike protein. This article provides valuable information for researchers regarding COVID-19 and progress in therapeutic approaches. This article will serve as a hallmark for understanding the COVID-19 mutation mechanism and strategies to combat these mutation points.
Prospective analysis of optic nerve diameter and NSE values in patients with refractory headaches
Authors: Orçan Naciye , Açıkalın Ayça , Dağlıoğlu Gülçin , Taşkın Ömer , Dişel Rana , Bakışkan Tombul Özge , Türker Merve
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the usability of ultrasonographic optic nerve diameter measurement and plasma neuron-specific enolase (NSE) levels in detecting secondary causes of headaches in patients with refractory headaches in emergency department.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in a university-based adult emergency department over 3 years. Sixty-six consecutive patients presenting to the emergency department with refractory headaches and 50 healthy volunteers for the control group were included. Information recorded included the duration of complaints, type and location of headache, symptoms, co-morbidities, results of imaging studies, optic nerve diameters, results of lactate, arterial blood gas and NSE levels.

Results: A total of 66 patients were included, comprising 33 females. The mean age was 43.05 ± 17.06 years. Secondary causes of headache were identified in 45 patients (68.2%). Evaluation of ultrasonographic optic nerve diameter revealed that 17 (25.8%) right and 21 (31.8%) left optic nerve diameters were ≥5 mm. Optic nerve diameter values were significantly higher in patients diagnosed with secondary headache compared to those with primary headache, with no statistically significant difference observed in NSE values. Lactate levels in patients with secondary headaches were significantly higher than those in patients with primary headaches.

Conclusion: In patients admitted to the emergency department with refractory headaches and normal imaging, ultrasonographic optic nerve diameter measurement may be preferred as an easily accessible method to guide the detection of secondary causes. NSE was not an effective in the early selection of patients with secondary headaches.
Carnosol and carnosic acid may be a promising anticancer agent in non-small cell lung cancer treatment
Authors: Duran Tuğçe , Koçak Nadir , Karaselek Mehmet
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the possible anticancer and apoptotic effect of carnosol and carnosic acid on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines in vitro.

Materials and Methods: Three different NSCLC cell lines (H441, H520, and H661) were used in the study and treatment (carnosol and carnosic acid treatment) and control (no treatment) groups were established in all cell lines. The IC50 doses were determined by MTT method on NSCLC cell lines and the changes in expression levels of apoptosis-related genes (Bax, Bak, caspase-3, p53, c-Myc, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL) were demonstrated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and apoptosis was confirmed by flow cytometry. The treatment group and control group results were compared.

Results: The IC50 doses of carnosol and carnosic acid were determined; 60 µM for the H441, 20 µM for the H661, 40 µM for the H520, 20 µM for the H441, 40 µM for the H661, 40 µM for the H520, respectively. Carnosol treatment increased Bax, Bak, caspase-3, and p53 expression but decreased Bcl-XL expression in studied lung cancer cell lines. Carnosic acid treatment increased apoptotic Bax, Bak, caspase-3, and p53 expression but decreased antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-XL expression (p
A novel prediction model for myocardial fibrosis in patients suspected of myocarditis
Authors: Erdoğan Aslan , Genç Omer , Demirtaş İhsan , Göksu Muhammed Mert , Erdinç Berk , Genç Duygu , Yıldırım Abdullah , Kartal Yiğit Can
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aimed at establishing a predictive method that consists of clinical, electrocardiographic (ECG), and laboratory parameters for myocardial fibrosis, especially as detected on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI), in patients examined with suspicion of myocarditis.
Materials and Methods: This study is a retrospective, single-centre study that includes patients admitted to our centre with suspected myocarditis between March 2020 and November 2023. Participants were categorised into two groups (myocardial fibrosis positive and myocardial fibrosis negative), and a detailed comparison of comorbidities, ECG changes, and laboratory parameters was performed. Multivariate analysis was conducted to identify independent predictors of myocardial fibrosis. A nomogram was constructed using the coefficients from the multivariate analysis to estimate the probability of myocardial fibrosis presence based on key predictors.
Results: This study included 98 participants with a median age of 30 years, predominantly male (80.6%), with 14.3% having hypertension, 8.2% having diabetes mellitus, and 10.2% being smokers. The myocardial fibrosis-negative group exhibited higher levels of left ventricular ejection fraction and lymphocyte count. Conversely, the myocardial fibrosis-positive group showed higher levels of ECG changes at admission, peak C-reactive protein (CRP), CRP velocity, peak troponin, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), monocytes, and platelets (PLT). In multivariate analysis, PLT, lymphocyte, monocyte, peak troponin, and ECG changes were identified as independent predictors of myocardial fibrosis. Receiving operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed the model's diagnostic accuracy for predicting myocardial fibrosis (area under the ROC (AUC): 0.959, 95% confidence interval (CI), and p
Determination of relations between plant species diversity and productivity in Brutian pine stands
Authors: Negiz Mehmet Güvenç , Özdemir Serkan , Erfidan Oğuzhan , Çıvğa Alican , Şentürk Özdemir
Published: March 2024

This study examines the relationship between Brutian pine productivity and plant species diversity, focusing on its potential as a valuable resource. Data was collected from 101 natural Brutian pine stands in Muğla and Antalya through inventory studies. Age and height values were recorded for three selected Brutian pine trees in each plot, along with plant species diversity using the Braun-Blanquet scale. Site index values were used to assign productivity scores between 1 and 5 for each plot. Diversity values were adjusted to a scale of 1 to 9 according to Westhoff and Maarel (1973) to calculate alpha diversity indices (Shannon and Simpson) using BİÇEB software. Environmental variables such as elevation, slope, radiation index, annual mean temperature, and annual precipitation were also collected for further analysis. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov normality test was first applied to the data matrix. Since it was determined that the normality assumption was not met (p<0.05), the Kruskal-Wallis test, which is a non-parametric method, was used to determine whether there is a significant difference between the diversity values for the site index groups. Results indicated a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) in diversity values among these groups. Then, diversity values and environmental variables were correlated using principal component analysis method (PCA). At the same time, site index groups were also included in the PCA as class data. As a result, it was revealed that Shannon and Simpson diversity values have a negative relationship with elevation and slope and a positive relationship with total annual precipitation.
Natural plants of the Sandras Mountain (Köyceğiz-Muğla) traditionally employed for therapeutic purposes
Authors: Akbaş Kenan , Çıtakoğlu Merve , Davran Serhat
Published: March 2024

This study was carried out between 2022 and 2023 in Yayla, Çayhisar, Sazak and Otmanlar neighborhoods located at the foothills of Sanras Mountain (Köyceğiz-Muğla). The main material of the study consists of plants determined as a result of surveys conducted with people living in these neighborhoods. A total of 73 people were interviewed in the survey. 41 of them are men and 32 are women. As a result of the interviews, it was determined that the local people benefit from 46 plant taxa growing naturally in the environment for therapeutic purposes. Among all plants evaluated; Salvia fruticosa Mill. and Origanum onites L. are seen as the most preferred by the local people. They use these plants through infusion in village coffeehouses and homes.
The performance of 3d printed dowel with three different surface designs in furniture joints
Authors: Demirel Samet , Kuvel Nazmiye Tuğçe , Çava Kutay , Aslan Mustafa
Published: March 2024

The shear strengths of the joints produced by using Poly Lactic Acid (PLA), PLA+ Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), and resin (Acrylic Photopolymer) with three different surface design of the dowels including, grooved, straight, and cross were investigated compared, wood and plastic dowels. The Results indicated that among L-type furniture joints, those manufactured from PLA and conventional wood dowels displayed the highest shear resistance, followed by L-type furniture joints with dowels made from PLA+TPU, resin, and plastic. Generally, differences in dowel patterns did not have a statistically significant impact on the shear resistance of L-type joints, except for the straight pattern dowels made of resin, which exhibited a statistically higher shear resistance than the grooved pattern dowels. Regarding the failure mode results, only PLA, PLA+TPU, and wooden dowels showed signs of elongation and crushing within the dowel holes. Conversely, in joints using dowels produced from resin and plastic, the dowels broke under shear stress, without displaying elongation, and did not leave any evidence of crushing in the dowel holes. Overall, the results of the study indicated that dowels made only PLA exhibited similar shear resistance compared to conventional wood dowels. Additionally, the study demonstrated that 3D-printed dowels were stronger than conventional plastic dowels.
Examining the relationship between the environmental and nature protection necessity approach and green organizational behavior: A research on forest engineers
Authors: Topaloğlu Gökhan , Özen Murat
Published: March 2024

The attitudes and behaviors of people towards the environment are described as environmental approach. The rapid importance of the environment has triggered individuals' positive attitudes towards the environment. Individuals who adopt a positive approach also exhibit positive behaviors with the idea of protecting the environment. This research was carried out to determine the effect of the environmental and nature protection necessity approach on green organizational behavior. Survey technique was used to obtain the data. 120 people participated in the survey conducted online for forest engineers working in the public sector. SPSS 22 program was used to analyze the data. Factor Analysis, Mann-Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis-H tests and Correlation analysis were used to analyze the data. According to the research findings, it was determined that the green organizational behaviors of forest engineers differed significantly according to their educational status. Additionally, it has been determined that environmental and nature protection approaches have a statistically significant and positive effect on green organizational behavior.
A comparison of photosynthetic gas exchange parameters measured under in situ and in vitro conditions in Pinus nigra subsp. pallasiana and Pinus brutia trees
Authors: Bayar Esra , Özçelik Mehmet Said
Published: March 2024

This study was conducted to compare the results of in situ and in vitro methods that can be used for measuring gas exchange parameters in two pine species. The study was carried out in a mixed Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. pallasiana (Lamb). Holmboe and Pinus brutia Ten. plantation in Kemer/Burdur, which has a semi-arid climate type located in the Western Mediterranean Region of Türkiye. In the first method, gas exchange parameters (net photosynthetic rate-Anet, stomatal conductance-gs and transpiration rate-E) were measured directly on the tree using a mobile scaffold to reach to the tree canopy (in situ conditions). In the second method, branches were cut at approximately 50 cm and gas exchange parameters were determined in the same needles after the branch was immediately submerged in water (in vitro conditions). Measurements were taken between June and October 2022. Student’s t-test was conducted to compare the results of in situ and in vitro photosynthesis measurement methods. No statistically significant differences were found between the results of the compared methods in terms of gas exchange parameters for both species. The results of the study showed that in vitro measurements of photosynthesis can be preferred to in situ measurements of photosynthesis in P. nigra and P. brutia under field conditions where access to the canopy of tall trees is not possible.
Kastamonu yöresi karaçam meşcerelerinde şekil katsayılarının çeşitli tek ağaç ve meşcere özelliklerine göre değişimi
Authors: Kesik Elif Şeyda , Sakıcı Oytun Emre
Published: March 2024

Bu çalışmada, Kastamonu Orman Bölge Müdürlüğü sınırları içerisindeki eşit yaşlı, saf ve doğal karaçam meşcerelerindeki (Pinus nigra J.F.Arnold) ağaçlara ilişkin şekil katsayılarının incelenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Araştırma materyali olarak farklı bonitet sınıfı, kapalılık, gelişim çağı, ekorejyon, sıklık ve yaştaki meşcerelerden alınan 120 örnek alandan ve her bir örnek alanda meşcere orta çapına yakın çapa sahip en az 1 örnek ağaç olmak üzere toplam 145 örnek ağaçtan elde edilen veriler kullanılmıştır. Örnek ağaçlar üzerinde yapılan ölçümlerden yararlanılarak göğüs boyu şekil katsayısı (f1.3), mutlak şekil katsayısı (f0), doğal şekil katsayısı (f0.1) ve yapay şekil katsayısı (f0.5) hesaplanmış ve bunlara ilişkin ortalama değerler sırasıyla 0,489, 0,317, 0,504 ve 0,481 olarak belirlenmiştir. Şekil katsayılarının çeşitli tek ağaç, meşcere ve yetişme ortamı özellikleri ile olan ilişkileri istatistiksel analizlerle irdelenmiştir. Sonuçlar, Kastamonu yöresinde yetişen karaçamlara ilişkin şekil katsayılarının gerek tek ağaç özelliklerine ve gerekse meşcere ve yetişme ortamı özelliklerine göre değişim gösterdiğini ortaya koymuştur. Bu sonuçlara göre; göğüs boyu şekil katsayısının tüm tek ağaç özellikleri ve meşcere sıklığı dışındaki meşcere özellikleri ile korelasyon gösterdiği ve bonitet sınıfları ile gelişim çağları bakımından farklara sahip olduğu, mutlak şekil katsayısının tepe uzunluğu ve ağaç yaşı ile korelasyon gösterdiği ve bonitet sınıfları ile ekorejyonlar bakımından farklara sahip olduğu, doğal şekil katsayısının tepe uzunluğu dışındaki tüm tek ağaç özellikleri ve tüm meşcere özellikleri ile korelasyon gösterdiği ve gelişim çağları bakımından farklara sahip olduğu ve yapay şekil katsayısının da yalnızca meşcere yaşı ile korelasyon gösterdiği belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, şekil katsayılarının hacim hesaplamalarındaki başarıları da değerlendirilmeye çalışılmış ve en başarılı tahminlerin mutlak şekil katsayısıyla yapılabileceği belirlenmiştir.
Screening the risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus in minor ethnic Bishnupriya Manipuri community in Bangladesh
Authors: Singha Swapan K. , Emran M. Shah , Sinha Sharadindu K. , Sinha Sunia , Ahmed Kamal U. , Tahite Dihan
Published: March 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) development involves various interrelated risk factors, including age, gender, obesity, and inactivity. However, research lacks insights into the risk factors within the minor ethnic Bishnupriya Manipuri community in Bangladesh. This study aimed to identify T2DM risk factors within this community.
Methods: This survey-based prospective observational study was conducted in different villages of Kamalgonj Upazila under the Moulvibazar district in Bangladesh from March 2023 to June 2023 enrolled 280 individuals using purposive sampling. Data collection involved a questionnaire, verbal agreement, and diagnostic documentation. Analysis utilized Microsoft Office and the student’s t-test.
Results: Participants exhibited a 1:1.2 male-female ratio, with 64% aged 36-65. 43% were housewives, 55% engaged in moderate work, 15% smoked, and 41% had a family history of diabetes. Diabetic cases accounted for 39%, with an average age of 57.39±11.99 years, significantly higher than non-diabetic cases (46.79±17.93 years). Diabetic cases also showed significantly higher waist circumference (94.11±6.63 cm versus 84.71±14.76 cm) and body mass index (BMI) (26.12±7.61 kg/m2 versus 21.44±6.97 kg/m2).
Conclusions: T2DM predominantly affects older individuals in the Bishnupriya Manipuri community. Increased waist circumference, overweight, and obesity emerged as significant risk factors for T2DM within this population.
Detection of colistin susceptibility in extended spectrum β lactamases positive Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli clinical isolates by broth disc elution method
Authors: Sivadas Aiswarya , Sajeev Anakha , Kumar K. S. Harish , Krishnan Shinu
Published: March 2024

Background: Antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest threats in human health. Extended spectrum β lactamases mediated resistance is prevalent worldwide, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli leap out as this significant ESBL producers conferring resistance to the expanded spectrum cephalosporins. Colistin is being administered as last line therapy for patients that have failed to respond to other available antibiotics that are active against Gram-negative bacteria.
Methods: The present study was conducted at school of medical education Kottayam, Kerala from January 2023 to November 2023.During the period of study 150 isolates of K. pneumoniae and 136 isolates of E. coli were collected from various diagnostic microbiology laboratories in Kerala. The colistin susceptibility pattern of ESBL producing isolates was detected by broth disc elution method recommended by CLSI.
Results: In this study prevalence of multi-drug resistant is 6% and 9.6% and Extensively-drug resistant is 62% and 63.9% for K. pneumoniae and E. coli respectively. ESBL production was detected as 72% in K. pneumoniae and 79% in E. coli. The colistin susceptibility pattern of ESBL producing K. pneumoniae and E. coli was detected as 76.9% and 87.9% respectively
Conclusions: Our result demonstrated that the recent use of colistin as last resort treatment for extensively drug resistant gram-negative bacilli, it is essential to know the prevalence of susceptibility pattern to this antibiotic.
Gastric outlet obstruction secondary to adult hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: case report and literature review
Authors: Calderón Citlali , Belmont Steve
Published: March 2024

Adult hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is a rare entity; the most common type is secondary to underlying gastrointestinal pathologies, such as peptic ulcer, malignant tumors, and certain inflammatory diseases. A rare case of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is presented in an adult patient secondary to acid peptic disease, presenting with gastric outlet obstruction, treated in the first instance with pyloric dilation successfully, however, the clinical picture has recurred now with 90% hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, it was decided to perform a surgical procedure with roux-en-Y gastrojejunal diversion, progressing with adequate evolution. There is no consensus on which is the most effective treatment. However, most authors seem to favor gastric resection due to the risk of malignancy secondary to long-standing hypertrophic pyloric stenosis.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome: case report and topic review
Authors: Serrano Rosaura J. , Avilés Kevin , Corona Yanetzy E. , Alarcón Gaby A.
Published: March 2024

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is characterized by gastrin-secreting neuroendocrine tumors (gastrinomas) in the duodenum or pancreas. It is a rare condition, most patients are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, and a higher incidence in men. Gastrinomas are associated with a high risk of malignancy and the diagnosis is confirmed by the secretin stimulation test and imaging studies such as octreotide scintigraphy. We present the case of a 24-year-old man who presented with melena, asthenia, adynamia and abdominal pain, in addition to a history of peptic ulcer. Laboratory tests revealed low levels of hemoglobin and elevated levels of gastrin. Endoscopy showed a giant ulcer and subsequent surgery revealed stomach-jejunum adhesions, gastric lesions and Meckel's diverticulum. Imaging studies confirmed neuroendocrine tumor activity in the pancreas. ZES leads to sustained hypergastrinemia, causing peptic ulcers and other digestive tract complications. Gastrinomas can arise from a variety of locations and can cause peptic ulcers, malabsorption, and diarrhea. Diagnosis requires elevated fasting serum gastrin levels and hypersecretion of gastric acid. Treatment involves discontinuation of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) before diagnostic testing and surgical resection of tumors in suitable candidates. The diagnosis of ZES can be complicated due to the unreliability of the assays and the need for secretin testing. Surgical resection is recommended for sporadic gastrinomas without metastasis, while medical treatment may be necessary for postsurgical residual hyperacidity. Patients should undergo imaging studies for tumor localization and regular monitoring for complications and recurrences.
Mycosis fungoides: a rare case report
Authors: Panmei Ruby , Devi Angom Ronibala , Babu B. Mohan , Devi Yumkhaibam Sobita
Published: March 2024

Lymphoproliferative disease has many sub-types but the most-commonest subtype of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma is mycosis fungoides (MF). When it presents as solitary or oligo-lesional lesion, radiation therapy is considered potentially curative. This paper presents a case of 17-year-old female who developed two skin lesions in her left knee. She was diagnosed as a case of MF in patch stage. Localised radiation therapy was given to the lesion. MF prognosis depends overall on its stage and is usually better in the early stages. MF is rare and often requires a clinical-pathological correlation for its diagnosis, which is often delayed, especially in the early forms.
Disseminated strongyloidiasis in patients on immuno-suppressive therapy
Authors: Kodiyerithodi Insaf , Moideen Shamsudeen , Hafeeq Benil , Gopinathan Jyothish Chalil , T. Bhagyanath
Published: March 2024

Strongyloidiasis is a disease that causes significant morbidity and rarely mortality in immunocompromised patients. We report two cases of disseminated strongyloidiasis infection while on steroids. The first patient was a known diabetic, hypertensive, and coronary artery disease who began on steroids with hemodialysis for biopsy-proven rapidly progressive glomerulo nephritis (RPGN). He presented to the emergency department (ED) with fever, loose stools, worsening dyspnea on exertion, cough, conjunctival congestion, and bilateral lower limb pain of 1-week duration while on hemodialysis (HD). He was started on intravenous (IV) antibiotics, suspecting a catheter-related septicemia. Stool and sputum examination revealed strongyloid infection. The patient was treated with Albendazole, Ivermectin, empirical antibiotics, and tapering and stopping of steroids. Symptoms improved and the patient was discharged in stable condition. The second case is a known case of systemic hypertension and biopsy-proven IgAN on maintenance steroids, with recently detected diabetes mellitus. He presented to the ED with tiredness, fever, cough, dyspnea, and occasional hemoptysis of 1-week duration. On evaluation, he had maculopapular rash over the chest and abdomen, along with hypoxia requiring oxygen support, thrombocytopenia, and worsening renal function. He was initially started on IV antibiotics, suspecting a lower respiratory tract infection with sepsis. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology yielded strogyloid larvae. The patient received ivermectin along with empirical IV antibiotics and supportive treatment but succumbed to the infection. These case reports signify the need for an active search for opportunistic infections in patients who are on continuous immunosuppressive therapy.
A rare cause of epididymo-orchitis
Authors: Patil Siddanagouda B. , Patil Basavesh S. , Patil Santosh R. , Kundargi Vinay S. , Shariff Nawaz A.
Published: March 2024

Epididymo-orchitis is an inflammatory lesion of the testis and epididymis with a lymphocytic exudate. Patients with acute epididymo-orchitis typically present with scrotal pain, swelling, tenderness and fever. Here, we present a patient with scrotal pain and hemiscrotal swelling as the main complaints; however further investigations revealed a completely different and rare diagnosis. Zinner’s syndrome is a very rare developmental anomaly of the Wolffian duct. To date, only about 200 cases have been diagnosed. It is a triad of unilateral renal agenesis, ipsilateral seminal vesicle cyst and ejaculatory duct obstruction. Some patients remain asymptomatic and discovered incidentally, while others present with symptoms related to seminal vesicle cysts or ejaculatory duct obstruction: voiding or ejaculatory difficulty or pain. Treatment options include transurethral or transrectal aspiration and percutaneous drainage, however both are linked to an increased risk of recurrence. Symptomatic, complicated and recurrent cyst will require excision of the cyst, either laparoscopically or robotically.
Exploring the viability of newer technologies in care and management of tribal diabetes and metabolic syndrome in India
Authors: Singh Kritika , Chakma Tapas , Ray Suman , Vaidh Neha , Shrivastava Suyesh
Published: March 2024

With the advancements of digitalization technology in health sector, diabetes care and management have also experienced modifications and betterment. Various newer technologies cater to the individual conditions and needs and provide a personalized treatment. Device based technologies such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) linked to closed loop insulin delivery system, insulin pumps, wearable devices linked with mobile apps have made the self-management of diabetes possible on regular basis. In its contrast, the technologies are yet to reach the tribal settings of India, and also very challenging to implement. Studies have shown that the scenario of diabetes prevalence in Indian tribal population is as crucial as urban population. Also, land alienation, lack of health management infrastructure, low connectivity, technological challenges add up to their condition. While various technologies are challenging to implement due to electricity, network connectivity, infrastructure and storage facilities, some technologies can be implemented easily with the joint approach of primary health care staff, governmental and non-governmental organizations and people with diabetes themselves. Digitization of data is needed as it will give a clearer picture of the prevalence, provide easy access for the follow ups and easier to implement intervention-based technologies. The situation demands a tailored multifaceted approach for implementing the technological based remedies in tribal settings of India as it will increase the quality of life in these areas.
Immunology of vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Mohana Preethi Gompa , Rai Puja
Published: March 2024

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a bilateral seasonally occurring chronic inflammation of the conjunctiva especially in the adolescent boys, the pathogenesis of which includes a variety of genetic, climatic and environmental factors. The symptoms include itching, photophobia, watering and redness, ropy discharge which eventually lead to punctate epithelial erosions, shield ulcers over corneal and affects the vision and quality of life of young children. There are three types of VKC- palpebral, bulbar and mixed forms. The palpebral form has cobble stone papillae and congestion. The bulbar form shows horner tranta spots and pseudogerontoxon, while the mixed form has both. Several cells like histamines, IgE, chemokines, lymphokines play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this review was to review article of the multitude of cells and mediators that have a relevant role in VKC and the necessary treatment options targeted against the specific cells that may help in subsiding the disease process.
Reasons for non-performing pap smear screening in nurses and midwives working in Ardabil city health centers
Authors: Eghbali-Amoughin Fatemeh , Salehi Narges , Khavandizadeh Aqdam Sima
Published: March 2024

Background: Cervical cancer screening has been introduced a few years ago to prevent harm and death caused by this disease. Our purpose in this study was to determine the reasons for non-performing Pap smear screening in nurses and midwives working in Ardabil health centers.
Methods: The current descriptive-analytical research was conducted on 90 nurses and midwives working in health care centers in Ardabil city. The required information was collected through a questionnaire. After additional sampling and data collection from all participants in the research, it was coded and statistically analyzed in SPSS version 25 software.
Results: The present study showed that the most common reason for not performing a pap smear test in single people and in the age group of 20-30 years is related to virginity and in married people and in the age group of 30-50 years. It was related to the fear of doing it.
Conclusions: considering the cases that most women in the society are aware of cervical cancer and also the necessity of using cancer screening methods, using new educational methods through nurses and midwives to change their attitude and performance and increase their level and help in the timely diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Predisposing and enabling factors influencing the utilisation of maternal healthcare services at fishing landing sites in Buikwe district, Uganda
Authors: Namukasa Rashidah , Ekakoro Newton , Amatre Gerald , Kaddumukasa Martha
Published: March 2024

Background: Studies have demonstrated that women who get professional healthcare personnel's prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care have better pregnancy outcomes, which lowers the incidence of both neonatal and mother deaths. Uganda is among the sub-Saharan African countries with the highest percentages of maternal deaths of which the majority of the deaths take place in remote, resource-constrained areas, such as fishing landing sites. We investigated the factors influencing the use of maternity healthcare services by women from remote Lake Victoria islands fishing settlements in the Buikwe district of Uganda.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach was used. One hundred and four mothers were recruited in the study carried out at Ssenyi, Kiyindi and Nkombwe landing site in Buikwe district. Questionnaires were used to obtain information from mothers about predisposing factors, and enabling factors. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine which factors influenced the use of maternal healthcare services.
Results: Marital status (p=0.045, aOR=0.582; 95% CI=0.163-2.082) and paternal occupation (p=0.017, aOR=1.335; 95% CI=0.059-8.348) were the factors influencing maternal healthcare service utilisation among the respondents.
Conclusions: Increasing the amount of actions meant to raise socioeconomic standing and involving the men in maternal health seeking might aid in enhancing maternal healthcare services use by women at the landing sites in Uganda.
Factors associated with stunting incidence in toddlers in Cibungbulang sub-district, Bogor
Authors: Marbun Rosmida M. , Efiyanna Rina , Meilinasari  , Rabbani Fairuz Dhia
Published: March 2024

Background: Stunting is a developmental disorder characterized by L/A or H/A index z-score ≤2 SD and contribute to various negative impacts until adulthood. The prevalence of stunting among toddlers in Bogor Regency reached 24.9 percent according to SSGI. This study aimed to determine relationships between family income, being breastfed and drinking other milks, eating habits, handwashing and oral hygiene habits with stunting incidence among toddlers in Cibungbulang sub-district.
Methods: The study used cross-sectional design with 307 samples selected through systematic randomization. Almost all data, except stunting, were collected through interview with respondents, while stunting was identified through height measurement.
Results: Most toddlers had family income under the minimum wage (81.4%), did not drink breast milk anymore (52,4%), consumed other milks (60.6%), ate independently (69.4%), washed their hands after using toilets (91.2%), and cleaned their mouths at least once a day (85%). A total of 35% toddlers were stunted. There were significant relationships between family income (p=0.001), drinking breast milk (p=0.000) and other milks (p=0.001), eating habits (p=0.001), handwashing (p=0.035) and oral hygiene habits (p=0.039) with stunting incidence in toddlers (p<0.05).
Conclusions: Family income, consumption of breast milk and other milks, eating habits, and handwashing and oral hygiene habits were associated with stunting in toddlers.