bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Semangat Berorganisasi terhadap Prestasi Akademik Mahasiswa
Authors: Padli Ruslan , Akbar Ali
Published: April 2024

There are many things that affect student academic achievement, one of which is the activity of participating in organizational activities. But not a few also because of that students become complacent so that they take a long time to finish their studies. This study aims to determine the effect of organizational enthusiasm on academic achievement and how big the percentage of organizational enthusiasm is on student academic achievement. The method used in this study is a quantitative method with a series of tests, such as validity, reliability, normality, linear test, and simple linear test to test the validity of the variables and indicators in this study. As for the population in this study, there were 623 active students majoring in Islamic Communication and Broadcasting, Faculty of Da'wah and Communication, North Sumatra State Islamic University, Medan. The sample used in this study was 86 people obtained from the results of sampling using the slovin formula with a 10% allowance. Data collection techniques were carried out by distributing research questionnaires via the Google form. The results of the study answered that there was a significant influence between the organizational spirit variable and the academic achievement variable with an effect of 46.8%.
Optimalisasi Edupreneurship di Pondok Pesantren untuk Membentuk Santripreneur Berdaya Saing dan Mandiri di Era Milenial
Authors: Arwin Arwin , Sugiharto Vebri , Nisa Ardina Khoirun
Published: April 2024

The millennial era requires the younger generation to have skills such as self-confidence, sociability, openness to change, and creativity. Generations that do not have these skills will gradually be eroded and ostracized. Islamic boarding schools as Islamic educational institutions are expected to be able to produce graduates who are experts in the field of religion as well as skilled and creative in entrepreneurship. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the optimization of edupreneurship carried out by Islamic boarding schools in producing competitive and independent santripreneurs. This research was conducted at the Padangsidimpuan Islamic boarding school. The research method used is qualitative based on descriptive studies. The data sources in this study were the heads of Islamic boarding schools, extracurricular teachers, and students. Data collection uses observation and interviews. The results showed that optimization was carried out in several ways, namely integrated edupreneurship in all subjects, integrated in the form of extracurricular activities, self-development programs, integrated into teaching materials, through Islamic boarding school culture, integration through local content.
Pengembangan Bahan Ajar Evaluasi Pembelajaran Berbasis Transdisipliner
Authors: Ananda Rusydi , Rafida Tien
Published: April 2024

Learning success is one of the factors determined by teaching materials, but teaching materials compiled by lecturers are often not in accordance with university policies. In this regard, this study aims to produce learning evaluation teaching materials based on transdisciplinary. The focus of the study is on three things, namely feasibility, practicality, and effectiveness of transdisciplinary based learning evaluation courses. The research method uses research and development with reference to the theory of the Gall, Gall and Borg model which recommends the model developed by Dick, Carey and Carey. The results showed: (1) the transdisciplinary based learning evaluation course was developed starting from needs analysis, design, trial and revision. The developed learning is equipped with lecturer manuals, student manuals, and teaching books, (2) transdisciplinary based evaluation learning has been validated for its feasibility by learning design experts and material experts, with the results showing the learning product is feasible to use, (3) transdisciplinary based evaluation learning developed, has a practicality level with a score of 3.28 in the practical category, (4) transdisciplinary based evaluation learning is proven to be effective in improving student learning outcomes, with an N-Gain Score of 0.38 in the medium effectiveness category.
Manajemen Lembaga Pendidikan Islam di Madrasah: Analisis Tentang Model dan Implementasinya
Authors: Irwanto Irwanto , Susrianingsih Susrianingsih , Habibi Habibi , Ardat Ardat
Published: April 2024

Management of Islamic educational institutions has an important role in shaping the quality of education in line with Islamic principles. The management model of Islamic educational institutions can become the essence and complexity of the management of Islamic educational institutions, illustrating how elements of professionalism, religious values, and dimensions of leadership combine to create a holistic educational environment. In this regard, this study aims to analyze the model and implementation of the management of Islamic educational institutions in madrasas. This research was conducted at MTs. Pendidikan Agama Islam. the research method used is descriptive qualitative. The results of research at MTs. Pendidikan Agama Islam namely, the management of Islamic educational institutions demands more than conventional managerial skills. In addition to competence in planning, organizing, supervising and controlling, religious aspects play a central role in decision making and carrying out administrative tasks. The concept of sacred intention is the main driving force, inspiring action with the aim of carrying out education as a religious deed that follows the teachings of Islam. The purpose of this paper is to describe the combination of managerial attitudes and Islamic leadership values ​​as an essential foundation.
Manajemen Program Bina Prestasi dalam Meningkatkan Potensi Siswa pada Lembaga Pendidikan Islam
Authors: Kamila Nuha Ghina Zulfa , Mustofa Triono Ali
Published: April 2024

The Bina Prestasi program in Islamic educational institutions is growing, therefore it needs good management so that students get the right to foster achievement in order to increase student potential. This study aims to analyze the management of the Bina Prestasi program in increasing student potential, as well as the supporting and inhibiting factors of Bina Prestasi program management at Al-Irsyad Junior High School in Surakarta. This research uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. Data collection used observation, interviews and literature study. Data analysis used data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results of this study found that the achievement development program of Al Irsyad Junior High School Surakarta through the fields of natural science, social science, mathematics, English, Indonesian, Arabic, Khitobah, Calligraphy, Ziyadah, MHQ, and MTQ. The target is that each subject must include students in at least two competitions in one semester. Supporting factors are good cooperation and performance of all parties, effective and efficient utilization of funds, and adequate infrastructure. The inhibiting factor is that student enthusiasm sometimes fluctuates, and the material taught must be updated and upgraded.
The Association between Male Circumcision and Physical Intimate Partner/Spouse Violence in Kenya
Authors:   Egerton University, Mukthar Vincent K.
Published: April 2024

Intimate partner violence against women is a global public health problem with many short-term and long-term effects on the physical and mental health of women and their children. Intimate partner/spouse violence is predominantly perpetrated by men against women victims. Sustainable Development Goal 5.2 aims to eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls. This study sought to determine the association between of male circumcision and physical intimate partner/spouse violence in Kenya. Data from the nationwide and representative Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, conducted in 2014, were further analyzed. The Demographic and Health Survey utilizes a two stage stratified sampling technique. This study found that Male circumcision is very popular in Kenya (92.4%, n=12819). This study establishes that physical intimate partner/ spouse violence is rife in Kenya (34.5%, n=3265). A Pearson Chi Square test of independence found that there was a significant association between male circumcision status and physical intimate partner/spouse violence (x2(1) =44.51a, p<0.000). Binary Logistic regression predicted that the males who were uncircumcised had over two-fold higher odds of executing physical intimate partner/spouse violence compared to those were circumcised (OR 2.44, CI 1.86-3.19). This study concludes that male circumcision is beneficial in the long-term and adds to the holistic value of men beyond the physical removal of prepuce for health reasons. This study recommends male circumcision especially with a period of seclusion. This study recommends that programs should focus on initiatives or interventions that encourage male circumcision accompanied by structured learning programs during the period of initiates’ seclusion. Keywords: Male Circumcision, Intimate Partner/Spouse Violence, Social Cognitive Theory
Green threads of change: Unravelling the gendered and experienced moderators in the sustainable symphony of green HR practices and environmental responsibility
Authors: Altassan Megren Abdullah , Ahmad Aqeel
Published: April 2024

This study employs a quantitative methodology to investigate the intricate relationships between Green Human Resource (HR) Practices, Green Culture, and Environmental Sustainability. The independent variable, Green HR Practices, is delineated into four components: green recruitment, green training, green reward, and green empowerment. The mediating role of Green Culture is explored in the context of two dependent variables: Proactive Organization-Centered Environmental Sustainability and Reactive Organization Eco-Centric Environmental Sustainability. Additionally, gender and experience are introduced as moderators, influencing the relationship between Green Culture and the two dimensions of Environmental Sustainability. Utilizing a purposive sampling technique, data were collected from 357 participants from industries in Pakistan. The analysis was conducted using Warp-PLS 8.0 software. The results reveal significant direct and indirect effects of Green HR Practices on both and, with Green Culture acting as a mediator. The study further unveils the moderating influence of gender and experience on the relationship between Green Culture and Environmental Sustainability. Key findings include the identification of specific Green HR Practices that significantly impact environmental outcomes. The mediating role of Green Culture elucidates the pathway through which these practices influence sustainability. The moderation effects of gender and experience underscore the nuanced nature of these relationships, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies. The study contributes to the growing literature on sustainable HR practices by offering insights into the mechanisms driving environmental sustainability within organizations. The findings have practical implications for HR practitioners, highlighting the importance of cultivating green organizational culture and considering individual differences in the implementation of sustainability initiatives.
Factors influencing the participation of Vietnamese enterprises in global value chains: Insights from the manufacturing and processing sectors
Authors: Vu Huyen Thi Thanh , Nguyen Hien Thi Thu , Vu Hung Phuong , Lam Do Van , Viet Thao Tran
Published: April 2024

This research aims to investigate the factors that impact the participation of companies in Vietnam's Manufacturing and Processing sector in the Global Value Chain (GVC). We employ panel data analysis with a dataset of 387,994 observations from 107,125 enterprises in this industry spanning 2011-2020. Both Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) and Generalized Moment Method (GMM) are used to assess the factors affecting the industry's GVC engagement. The Arellano-Bond test checks for autoregressive processes of order one (AR(1)) or order two (AR(2)) in the model to see if the idiosyncratic error term exhibits serial correlation. The Sargan test checks for over-identifying restrictions in the statistical model. The results reveal that the ratio of large enterprises" exerts the most significant positive influence on the participation of Vietnamese enterprises in the GVCs, closely followed by "Institutional and policy environment." Conversely, HHI, TFP, and GDP growth rates show significant negative impacts. For Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), horizontal spillovers are positive and statistically significant. However, significant results also show a negative coefficient in the Backward GVC and a positive one in the Forward GVC. From these findings, we point out some important policy implications: (1) the government should strengthen favorable conditions for the participation of large enterprises and leading SMEs; (2) It is necessary to improve the institutional and policy environment and refine policies to attract FDI, especially with a focus on promoting forward linkages to facilitate greater engagement of the enterprises in the GVCs.
Work posture risk comparison of RULA and REBA based on measures of assessment-score variability: A case study of the metal coating industry in Thailand
Authors: Sirikasemsuk Kittiwat , Kittipanya-Ngam Pichawadee , Luanwiset Darin , Leerojanaprapa Kanogkan
Published: April 2024

This study examines the work posture risk comparison of RULA and REBA based on measures of assessment-score variability. During the metal coating process, chemicals were frequently employed, necessitating a heightened level of caution among the employees. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ) revealed the manifestation of physical discomfort among employees. In this study, the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) and the rapid entire body assessment (REBA) were used to identify ergonomic concerns related to the work of employees in the black oxide coating department of a metal coating firm. The sensitivity of risk assessment between the two methods was investigated, considering the mean and variability of the assessment scores. Consideration was given to the diverse and crucial work positions of employees at each station, focusing exclusively on the standing working posture. In the black oxide coating section, there were 12 steps that 20 workers had to complete. Under the same working postures, the overall average RULA score was determined to be at a high-risk level, whereas the overall average REBA score was at a moderate-risk level. As a result, the RULA method had a greater capacity for risk warning than the REBA method. Levene's test was also applied to determine whether the variances of the risk scores computed using the two techniques were equal. The results of the analysis showed that the variances in the scores using the two methods were not significantly different.
The impact of hybrid model science practicum based on IoT and VR on prospective science teacher students' creative thinking skills
Authors: Setyawarno Didik , Rosana Dadan , Widodo Eko , Maryati  , Rahayu Dita Puji
Published: April 2024

This study aims to determine the impact of the IoT and VR-based hybrid model science practicum on prospective science teacher students’ creative thinking skills. In addition, the study introduces how to implement IoT and VR-based hybrid models in science learning. The approach used in this research is quantitative, with an experimental method of one-group pretest-posttest design. The sample consists of 43 prospective science teachers at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta who were determined by purposive sampling technique. The instruments used include creative thinking tests and observation sheets to implement hybrid model science practicum learning. The quality of the instrument was analyzed with Content Validity Ratio, Fleiss Kappa, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and Rasch Model. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, and effect size. The result showed that descriptive statistic is a general distribution, paired sample t-test p<0,001, and an effect size of 4.15. The finding showed that there was a significant positive effect on creative thinking skills. The implementation of this science practicum provides a meaningful academic experience for students. The practical implications of this research are that the IoT and VR-based hybrid model science practicum could be used by a prospective science teacher on other topics. Besides that, prospective science teachers' students’ creative thinking skills could be increased.
Demand for TV content in a national language: The case of Kazakhstan
Authors: Yessenbekova Ulbossyn , Syzdykova Aida , Kutym Begim
Published: April 2024

This study examines preferences in selecting television content, using a national television channel as a case study. The Russian language put a lot of pressure on the Kazakh language during the communist regime. Post-Kazakhstan’s independence, linguistic dynamics shifted as authorities began responding to the demands of the Kazakh-speaking population. The aim is to test the hypothesis regarding the increasing demand for native language content, supported by the analysis of TV program ratings. For hypothesis testing, we employed empirical data obtained through an investigation into the preferences of the Kazakh-speaking audience. A total of 300 residents in Astana, aged 20-70, were interviewed. The survey results elucidate the correlation between public events and the television audience’s preferences. Historical, complex, and comparative analyses were employed, utilizing empirical data derived from a television audience preference study. The examination of television projects and their scripts revealed that language format substantially influences content informativeness and viewership ratings. Findings highlight a correlation between major events and television audience preferences. Programs in the Kazakh language elicit a positive response from the country’s television audience, particularly when discussing engaging topics. Based on research, recommendations are offered for enhancing editorial policies on television channels, with an emphasis on incorporating more Kazakh-language projects to better cater to the growing demand.
Deep Seabed Image Enhancement Algorithm for Manned Submersible Acquisition
Authors:   National Deep Sea Center, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China, Ding Zhongjun ,   College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China, Li Zhiyuan ,   National Deep Sea Center, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China,   College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China, Diao Guangzhao ,   Jinan Junda Ren Experimental Instrument Co., Ltd., Jinan, Shandong Province, China, Li Dewei ,   National Deep Sea Center, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
Published: April 2024

Objective: Due to the problems of light propagation underwater, such as scattering and absorption, which leads to low contrast, color distortion and blurring of details in the images obtained underwater, this phenomenon is more serious in the deep sea, and most undersea map images collected by manned submersibles during deep-sea exploration exhibit these issues. To address these problems, an underwater image fusion enhancement algorithm based on color correction and image sharpening is proposed for image enhancement and restoration. Methods: The automatic color enhancement algorithm is used to correct and enhance the color of the underwater image. Subsequently, the RGB three channels are corrected by gamma filtering. The RGB space is then converted to the Lab space, and the L channel is processed by the Contrast Limited Adaptive Histogram Equalization algorithm to enhance the luminance. At the same time, the color-corrected image is image-sharpened by using unsharpened mask algorithms. Finally, image fusion is performed by using the algorithm based on the fusion of guided filters. Results: The experimental results on several underwater images under different scenarios show that the enhancement effect achieved by this algorithm is better than the comparison algorithm. In the subjective aspect, the color and details of the images are better balanced and enhanced. In the objective aspect, quantitative evaluations are carried out in three aspects: Information entropy (IE), underwater image quality measure (UIQM), and underwater color image quality evaluation (UCIQE), in which the IE is quantitatively evaluated. Regarding the UCIQE, the proposed algorithm has a better effect than other algorithms in terms of IE, UIQM, and UCIQE. Specifically, compared to the original image, the proposed algorithm shows improvements of 33.4%, 1.45 times, and 54.4% or more in mean value. Conclusion: The results show that the algorithm has good results in image processing for underwater environments, with enhancement and restoration of images acquired through manned submersibles.
La justicia electoral y los conflictos presupuestales entre poderes locales y OPLE: la garantía de autonomía presupuestal en entredicho
Authors: Zuñiga Ayala Leonardo
Published: April 2024

La narrativa en contra de las autoridades electorales hace que surja el interés en demostrar si está acompañada de acciones que pongan en riesgo la autonomía institucional. Se argumentará que la reforma político-electoral de 2014 generó un efecto indeseado consistente en el uso del presupuesto como herramienta de control por parte de los poderes locales, así como de los medios de impugnación por parte de los organismos públicos locales electorales (OPLE) para defenderse. Además, se establecerá que las reducciones presupuestales van al alza y que existe una relación entre este fenómeno y el partido del cual emanan los poderes locales. Por último, se determina que el Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación (TEPJF) ha contribuido a validar situaciones de subordinación.
Elecciones municipales en Jalisco, 1995-2021: evolución de indicadores y factores del triunfo electoral
Authors: Ramírez Ramírez Juan Jesús , Vázquez Rivas Erick Roberto
Published: April 2024

¿Cómo ha sido el comportamiento electoral en los municipios jaliscienses entre 1995 y 2021? En casi 30 años (diez procesos electorales) se ha pasado de sistemas bipartidistas a multipartidistas, de pocos partidos protagonistas con registro nacional a un contexto de mayor pluralidad, incluso con partidos locales, de amplios márgenes de victoria y mayorías absolutas a resultados reñidos con mayorías apenas relativas. Este artículo pretende describir el comportamiento electoral, de manera global, en los municipios jaliscienses: por una parte, trazando tendencias agregadas de indicadores electorales como la rotación de partidos en el gobierno y el nivel de fragmentación; por la otra, haciendo uso de modelos de regresión logística para identificar variables asociadas al triunfo de los partidos con mayor presencia municipal.
revocación de mandato de 2022 en México: retos en el caso del estado de Guanajuato
Authors: Rivera Durón Nancy Valeria , Cobilt Cruz Elizabeth Cristina
Published: April 2024

En el año 2022, se llevó a cabo la primera consulta de revocación de mandato (RM) presidencial en México. Hasta el momento, los análisis sobre este proceso no han destacado suficientemente cómo se vivió a nivel local, específicamente en las juntas locales ejecutivas (JLE). Este artículo se centra en describir el desarrollo de la consulta en el estado de Guanajuato, utilizando una metodología cualitativa que incluye observación participante, entrevistas a informantes clave y la relatoría de la experiencia de una de las coautoras. Se concluye identificando áreas de oportunidad, tanto institucionales como contextuales, que requieren atención en futuros procesos.
Experimental investigation and evaluation of the compactness and moisture damage of asphalt mixes incorporating dune and river sand
Authors: Younsi Abderahman , Bensaada Abdelhalim , Allout Naas , Smail Haddadi , Choungache Belgacem
Published: April 2024

Road construction is mainly based on the use of raw materials that must be in compliance with the standards, thus ensuring the quality and durability of the road. The use of dune sand and river sand in road geotechnics is an interesting subject. Both types of sand can be used in road construction and maintenance for a variety of applications. Dune sand is often appreciated for its uniform grain size and drainage capacity, while river sand can offer good mechanical strength. The majority of common bituminous mixes contain fillers made of quarry sand, whose amounts are difficult to regulate because of the variety of rock deposits and the conditions under which they are manufactured. In this paper, the compactness and moisture damage of asphalt mixes with two sand types, River sand (RS) with (0/4) size was sourced from the valley in the province of Medea (Algeria) and Dune Sand (DS) with a particle size of (0/0.5) was obtained from a dune in the Algerian province of Djelfa, were examined. Furthermore, a 100% replacement rate by weight of Crushed Sand (CS) with (0/3) mm size was used (quarry sand). The investigation employed a comprehensive approach, utilizing Marshall and gyratory shear compaction tests to assess compactness, while moisture damage was evaluated through rigorous water resistance testing and compressive strength methodology. The results of the study reveal a notable disparity in the mechanical performance of asphalt mixtures containing dune and river sand, showcasing diminished compactness and heightened susceptibility to moisture-induced damage when compared to alternative mix formulations. These findings underscore the critical role of sand type selection in asphalt mix design, emphasizing the need for careful consideration to optimize performance and durability.
Predictive value of fibrinogen for early neurological deterioration in large-artery atherosclerotic cerebral infarction
Authors: Lei Junjie , Huang Yihuan , Luo Shijian , Tang Chaogang , Mai Weihua , Zhang Lei
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: To evaluate the predictive value of fibrinogen at admission for early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with large artery atherosclerotic (LAA) stroke without reperfusion therapy. Fibrinogen, a glycoprotein crucial for clotting, is associated with worse outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. While its connection with thrombolytic therapy’s prognosis is recognized, its predictive role for non-thrombolytic-treated patients is less clear. The objective of this study is to evaluate the predictive value of fibrinogen at admission for early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with large artery atherosclerotic (LAA) stroke without reperfusion therapy.
Methods: This retrospective case-control study included consecutive inpatients with LAA stroke admitted within 72 h of onset at the Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University between January 2021 and December 2021. An increase of >2 in the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) within 7 days after admission was defined as END.
Results: This study included 179 patients (121 males); the mean age was 62.67±13.51 years. There were 42 and 137 patients in the END and non-END groups. The NIHSS score at admission was higher in the END group than in the non-END group, the fibrinogen levels were higher, and the uric acid levels were lower (all P<0.05). NIHSS at admission (OR=1.086, 95%CI: 1.001-1.179), fibrinogen levels (OR=2.182, 95%CI: 1.286- 3.702), and uric acid levels (OR=0.995, 95%CI=0.990-0.999) were independently associated with END. Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis suggested that the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve for fibrinogen for END were 62.9%, 78.1%, and 0.730 (95% CI: 0.532-0.828, P<0.009), respectively.
Conclusions: Elevated fibrinogen is independently associated with END in patients with LAA stroke without reperfusion therapy.
Direct cost of rituximab treatment in multiple sclerosis: A real-world finding from Malaysia
Authors: Rajakumar Sutha , Rajendran Vijitha , Mohamed Azlam Mohamed Micdhadhu  , Looi Irene , Rajah Retha
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: Multiple sclerosis (MS) imposes a significant economic burden on the healthcare system. In 2022, more than half of the Neurology budget of Hospital Seberang Jaya was spent on rituximab, an off-label drug for treating MS. Recently, the availability of rituximab biosimilar had provided an opportunity for cheaper treatment alternatives for subsidised patients or patients opting to self-purchase the medication. This study aimed to estimate the clinical outcome and cost of treatment of MS patients on Mabthera (originator) and Truxima (biosimilar).
Methods: A retrospective analysis of MS patients treated with rituximab from April 2018 to April 2023 was performed. Clinical charts and documented adverse events were reviewed. Healthcare costs were estimated based on rituximab treatment, hospitalisation charges, personnel and other diagnostic costs.
Results: Four patients treated with Mabthera and three with Truxima, with follow-up, ranging from 1 to 5 years (median: 3 years), were included. Two relapses occurred during follow-up, whereby one Mabthera and Truxima patient, respectively. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score improved in four patients, three patients treated with Mabhtera and one patient treated with Truxima. MR imaging reported no new changes in all the patients and a new lesion in one Truxima-treated patient. The estimated treatment drug cost of Mabthera was USD 7294.62 per patient/year and Truxima USD 3612.90 per patient/year. The total estimated personnel cost for a typical 2-day admission without complication is USD 62.26, the diagnostic cost for a complete blood count and urinalysis is USD 2.37, and the bedding cost is USD 1.29 for a typical two days. The total cost difference in treatment is affected mainly by the rituximab drug cost unless patients with urinary tract infection on day 14 are treated, and the length of stay is prolonged with antibiotics administration.
Conclusion: Our findings showed that Mabthera and Truxima were well tolerated. There is a significant difference in the cost of rituximab (p=0.026), bedding cost (p=0.048), healthcare professional cost(p=0.048) and the total cost (p=0.032) among patients on Mabthera and Truxima. However, as the number of patients treated with Truxima is limited, a longitudinal cohort or multi-centre approach could be carried out.
Very early re-do microvascular decompression for patients with trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Sun Tao , Su Yu , Wang Wentao , He Longshuang , Liu Jinlong , Yang Chao
Published: April 2024

Although microvascular decompression (MVD) is the widely recognized surgical option for patient with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), and most patients could receive satisfactory outcome, some patients still complained of severe pain, with culprit vessel omission and incomplete decompression as the commonly mentioned reasons. Here we reported three cases of very early re-do MVD for patients with TN. We found that both artery and vein simultaneous compressed the trigeminal nerve, and tight adhesion was found between the vein and nerve. The artery was totally decompressed, but the vein could not be decompressed without affecting the blood flow due to the severe adhesion, the patients still complained of severe pain after the first surgery. Very early re-do MVD was performed and we totally separated the veins from the nerve. The symptoms of patients disappeared immediately without any complication. No recurrence was found during follow up. We conclude that culprit vein should be retained if possible, rather than sacrificed, and very early reoperation may be a feasible choice for patient with persistent symptom after MVD.
Comparison of emergency consultations of patients with neurologic complaints before and during COVID-19 pandemic in a single tertiary hospital in Makati City, Philippines
Authors: Gamboa Julie Anne , Diesta Cid Czarina
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: COVID-19 forced us to develop adaptive ways to the new normal of healthcare delivery. Neurology has one of the most diverse types of patients who require urgent, prolonged and multidisciplinary care. This study aimed to understand the impact of the unprecedented community lockdown among patients with chronic and new onset neurologic conditions on emergency room (ER) utilization in a single tertiary hospital in Makati City, Philippine.
Methods: We retrospectively examined all consecutive neurology referrals made at the ER from March to August 2020 and compared them with a control group consisting of all ER neurology referrals during the same months in 2019.
Results: There was a 45% decline in the volume of referral to neurology service at the ER during the first 6 months of the lockdown period. There were fewer females who sought emergency neurologic care (p=0.019). The average age of patients increased from 55.5 years (σ=19.9) in 2019 to 59.5 years (σ=18.4) in 2020 (p<0.001). The top three chief neurologic complaints in 2019 were dizziness (17.7%), motor weakness (14.1%), and headache (13.2%). In 2020, the top three neurologic complaints where motor weakness (19.0%), decreased level of consciousness or loss of consciousness (13.2%), and dizziness (11.2%), (p<0.001). The average time from symptom onset to ER admission in 2019 was 5.1 days (σ=23.9) which increased to 8.4 days in 2020(σ=28.1), (p<0.001). The proportion of patients with no co-morbidities at the ER decreased from 27.6% in 2019 to 17.0% in 2020 (p<0.001). Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular diseases, endocrine diseases, pulmonary diseases, renal diseases, cancers, and others have significantly increased (p<0.05). However, the increase in the proportion of patients with pre-existing neurological disorders (p=0.143) was not statistically significant (p>0.05). The only pre-existing neurologic conditions with significantly increased in proportion was stroke (p=0.010). Among new onset neurologic diagnoses, headache and facial pain (p<0.001) and peripheral and other neuropathies (p=0.005) significantly decreased in proportions while proportions of cases with new stroke or vascular pathology (p<0.001) and encephalopathy (p=0.003) have significantly increased. ER dispositions showed a significant (p<0.001) decrease in proportions of patients who were admitted, discharged, and transferred to hospital of choice; while patients who were discharged against medical advice and who died at the ER have significantly increased.
Conclusion: The initial six months of community lockdown during COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant change in the characteristics of patients referred to neurology for emergency care. These changes provide us a new perspective on how to better deliver optimal neurologic care to these diverse patients especially during times of pandemic.
Unilateral thrombosis of dominant internal jugular vein presenting with benign intracranial hypertension
Authors: Murgan Ranchini , Sockalingam Sutharshan , Azmi Abd Kadir Khairul , Goh Khean Jin , Subrayan Visvaraja , Chong Bee Ping , Dharmendra Ganesan
Published: April 2024

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is defined as an elevation of intracranial pressure (ICP) with no identifiable aetiology. The term ‘pseudotumor cerebri’ or BIH, was commonly used in the past for idiopathic intracranial hypertension, but is now used to describe the chronic elevation of ICP regardless of its aetiology and is further divided into primary (idiopathic intracranial hypertension) and secondary forms. We report a rare case of BIH secondary to unilateral dominant internal jugular vein thrombosis.
Prevalence of symptomatic acute cerebral infarction among patients with COVID-19 and D-dimer as a predictor of cerebral infarction
Authors: Dönmez Recep , Güneş Muzaffer , Şahin Oruç
Published: April 2024

Objectives: This study sought to investigate the frequency of symptomatic acute cerebral infarction (sACI) among patients with novel coronavirus (COVID-19) disease and the predictive value of laboratory parameters such as D-dimer and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in sACI.
Methods: This retrospective case-control study analyzed the data of 2,378 patients with COVID-19 registered in our database between April 1, 2020 and November 30, 2020. Of these patients, a total of 119 subjects were included in the study, including 31 COVID-19 patients with sACI (patient group) and 88 randomly selected COVID-19 patients without sACI (control group). Categorical variables were compared using Chi-square test and predictive value of the variables was analyzed using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.
Results: Thirty one (1.30%) of 2,378 COVID-19 patients had sACI. Mann-Whitney U test showed that median D-dimer, neutrophil and NLR values were significantly higher in the sACI group compared to the control group (p = 0.004, p < 0.048 and p = 0.007, respectively). ROC analysis yielded the following areas under the ROC curve: D-dimer = 0.674 (95% CI, 0.569-0.779), NLR = 0.663 (95% CI, 0.559-0.767) and neutrophils = 0.620 (95% CI, 0.509-0.73).
Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that elevated D-dimer levels can be used as a predictor of sACI in COVID-19 patients.
A case of pituitary apoplexy presented with isolated complete oculomotor nerve palsy
Authors: Leelawai Sumonthip , Sanghan Nuttha , Setthawatcharawanich Suwanna , Korathanakhun Pat , Amornpojnimman Thanyalak , Sathirapanya Pornchai
Published: April 2024

The oculomotor nerve (CN3) innervates four extra-ocular muscles and contains parasympathetic fibers controlling pupillary light reflex (PLR). CN3 palsy with impaired PLR or complete CN3 palsy usually suggests a compressive lesion against the CN3 because the parasympathetic fibers located superficially on the cranial nerve trunk are affected. A cerebral aneurysm originated from posterior communicating artery, posterior cerebral artery or superior cerebellar artery is a common cause of isolated complete CN 3 palsy. Here, we reported a less common intracranial lesion causing isolated complete CN3 palsy for which the preceding recurrent temporal headaches before the CN3 palsy assisted the neurological localization.
The effect of tracheotomy timing on short- term prognosis in hypertensive intracerebral haemorrhage patients after craniectomy: a retrospective analysis of early vs late intervention
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Xia Bin , Yan Zhongnan
Published: April 2024

Objective: The present study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and short-term prognosis in patients with hypertensive intracerebral haemorrhage (HICH) with basal ganglia haematoma volume ≥ 60 mL who underwent early tracheotomy versus late tracheotomy post-craniectomy.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted based on the data of 102 patients with basal ganglia haematoma volume ≥ 60 mL after craniectomy between 2016 and 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: early tracheotomy and late tracheotomy. This study evaluated the effect of early tracheotomy on prognosis within 90 days and the impact of tracheotomy timing on overall survival in patients with HICH.
Results: Patients in the early tracheotomy group showed a significant reduction in duration of ventilation and intracranial pressure (ICP) at 24 hours (post-tracheotomy) compared to those in the late tracheotomy group. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that late tracheotomy after craniectomy, old age, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) ≤ 6, large haematoma volume, and pneumonia after tracheotomy were risk factors for poor prognosis within 90 days in patients with HICH undergoing tracheotomy postoperatively. In terms of the impact of tracheotomy timing on overall survival in patients with HICH, 46 patients died within a follow-up period of 90 days; 19 in the early tracheotomy group (overall survival rate 62.7%), and 27 in the late tracheotomy group (overall survival of 47.1%).
Conclusions: Early tracheotomy significantly improved the short-term prognosis of patients with HICH, with a higher overall survival rate compared to late tracheotomy within 90 days of illness.
Prevalence of diabetic neuropathy in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mohammad Rahmanian  , Shirin Yaghoobpoor  , Deravi Niloofar , Mohadeseh Poudineh  , Seyedeh Nooshan Mirmohammadali  , Mohammad Ghasem Kashanizadeh  , Amirhossein Poopak  , Arezoo Faridzadeh  , Gisou Erabi  , Erfan Amouei  , Masih Falahatian  , Afshin Khani  , Sayedeh-Fatemeh  Sadatmadani  , Masoud Noroozi  , Fatemeh Dehghani Firouzabadi
Published: April 2024

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) refers to the uncontrolled accumulation of triglyceride (TG) in the liver when the person has no other liver disease etiologies. Among all causes of neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy is the most common one worldwide, and it causes notable morbidity and increases mortality. The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy and NAFLD has been demonstrated in few studies. This study aims to summarize existing data estimating peripheral diabetic neuropathy prevalence among sonographically detected NAFLD patients. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google scholar for articles in the English language up until October 2021 for the clinical trials of diabetic neuropathy in NAFLD patients and used the articles for a systematic review and meta-analysis. Seven studies (6,918 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)) were involved. The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy among T2DM patients with ultrasound (US) detected-NAFLD was 0.48 (95% CI= 0.31-0.65, I2= 99.01%), however it was not significantly different from patients without NAFLD (OR=1.02, 95% CI= 0.89-1.17. p=0.748, I2=81.6%). The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy among T2DM patients with NAFLD is not significantly different from patients without NAFLD.
Investigation of telomere length in young age ischemic stroke patients
Authors: Argis Erhan , Milanlioglu Aysel
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: Telomere length is frequently accepted as a marker of biological aging. Various studies examine the relationship between telomere length, accepted as a marker of biological aging, and stroke, but this relationship has not been clearly demonstrated. The objective of this study is to determine whether short DNA telomere length is an independent risk factor for stroke.
Methods: Our study examined telomere length in young patients with ischemic stroke. The study included 60 patients with a history of ischemic stroke at a young age within the last 3 years and a control group consisting of 40 volunteers with similar age, gender, and disease history defined as risk factors for stroke.
Results: In our study, the mean telomere length of the patient group was significantly higher than the mean telomere length of the control group. However, the telomere length of the patients in the study did not show a significant difference between socio-demographic and risk factors defined for ischemic stroke.
Conclusion: Our study is very important in being the first to show such a relationship between telomere length and young age ischemic stroke. The low sample size may partially explain this result compared to other studies, as well as the study’s design, the study population’s age, ethnicity, and methods of studying telomere length. More studies with a larger sample size with younger patients are needed to better understand the relationship between telomere length and stroke in the future.
Vulvodynia prevalence and associated psychosexual problems in middle-aged diabetics at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Amna Nisar  , Subhan Fazal , Rabbi Fazle , Ali Gowhar , Elahi Fazal
Published: April 2024

Background & Objective: Vulvodynia is a significant clinical disorder in women but it remains a neglected health problem in many societies. The present study was aimed to identify the frequency of vulvodynia in the diabetic and non-diabetic population and its association with common psychosexual problems in the population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Methods: This study is cross sectional descriptive investigation and conducted in tertiary care hospital (Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar) in 2018-2019. A total of 75 cases categorized into diabetic and non-diabetic groups were collected under the supervision of qualified gynecologists. Groups were compared on the basis of demographics, symptom frequency, psychological and clinical data, using a pre-designed proforma.
Results: The incidence of vulvodynia in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (n = 50) and in the non-diabetic population (n = 25) was 66.6% and 33.3%, respectively. The vulvodynia severity score based on Friedrich`s criteria in diabetes was 80% and in non-diabetes it was 40%. The cotton bud swab test severity index was 80% in diabetes and 40% in non-diabetes. The erythema rating scale score in diabetes was 81% and in non-diabetes it was 39%. Finally, psychological and psychosexual problem frequency in diabetes was 100% and in non-diabetes was 88%.
Conclusions: Women with diabetes had a fourfold risk of vulvodynia up to middle age as compared to non-diabetics in Peshawar, Pakistan. Diabetics with vulvodynia possessed a nine-fold risk of experiencing psychological symptoms of depression (OR = 9.33; 95% Cl 1.0-88.6) and an even higher risk of somatic depression symptoms.
Integração de jogos digitais no ensino para estudantes com autismo
Authors: Santos Silvana Maria Aparecida Viana , Vieira Anderson Amaro , Sá Gilmara Benício de , Silva Marcia Romão , Silva Paulo Edson Cutrim , Silva Tatiane Oliveira da , Woodcock Yasmin Pinho , Woodcock Ziza Silva Pinho
Published: April 2024

Esta revisão bibliográfica abordou a integração de jogos digitais no ensino para estudantes com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA), visando compreender como essas ferramentas podem contribuir para o processo educacional. O objetivo geral foi analisar o potencial pedagógico dos jogos digitais para o desenvolvimento de habilidades cognitivas, sociais e emocionais em estudantes com TEA. A metodologia adotada consistiu em uma revisão sistemática de literatura, selecionando estudos que exploraram o uso de jogos digitais com esse grupo específico. Os resultados indicaram que os jogos digitais, quando adequadamente implementados, oferecem uma plataforma para o engajamento e a aprendizagem, apesar dos desafios relacionados à personalização e à integração no currículo educacional. A análise dos estudos sugeriu que a eficácia dos jogos depende significativamente da adaptação às necessidades individuais dos alunos e do suporte aos educadores. As considerações finais destacaram a importância de mais pesquisas na área, a necessidade de formação de professores e a colaboração interdisciplinar para maximizar os benefícios educacionais dos jogos digitais para estudantes com TEA.