bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-World Efficacy and Safety of Oral Tofacitinib in Patients with Refractory Moderate to Severe Atopic Dermatitis: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Dhar Sandipan , De Abhishek , Sarda Aarti , Godse Kiran , Lahiri Koushik
Published: August 2024

Background:

Atopic dermatitis (AD) has a complex etiology that includes Th2 polarization, which is accompanied by the cytokines IL4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-31, as well as Th17 and Th22, and in chronic lesions, Th1 cells. Tofacitinib inhibits Th1-, Th2-, and Th17-associated cytokines by selectively blocking JAK1 and JAK3 receptors. We conducted a multicentric, retrospective chart analysis to study the efficacy and safety of tofacitinib in patients with moderate to severe refractory AD.

Materials and Methods:

We included 16 adult patients (aged >18 years) with moderate to severe AD who had previously undergone systemic therapy with inadequate response. In the baseline, demographic data, previous treatment history, severity scores (eczema area and severity index [EASI] and SCORing Atopic Dermatitis [SCORAD]), and quality of life score (Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI]) were noted. Baseline blood investigations, including complete blood count, liver function test, renal function test, lipid profile, and interferon gamma release assay for tuberculosis, were done. Patients were followed up every month for 6 months that included documentation of severity scores, blood investigations, and DLQI. Any adverse events, if reported, were noted.

Result:

All 16 patients completed the 6-month trial. Our patients were previously treated with cyclosporine (n = 10), methotrexate (n = 3), or both (n = 3). The mean EASI scores improved from 23.38 ± 9.56 at baseline to 8.50 ± 7.57 at the end of 6 months. The mean SCORAD score improved from 41.25 ± 8.69 at baseline to 14.93 ± 7.82 at the end of 6 months. Quality of life also improved as the mean DLQI improved from 15.18 ± 2.73 at baseline to 5.31 ± 4.11 at the end of the study period. No severe adverse reactions were noted, but 3 patients experienced dyslipidemia and 2 patients had altered bleeding time.

Conclusion:

Tofacitinib is a safe and effective treatment option for recalcitrant moderate to severe adult AD.
Diabetic Lung: An Entity Complicated by Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pneumonia
Authors: Chatterjee Rupak , Mukherjee Shatavisa , Bhattacharjee Archisman , Mukherjee Angshuman , Chatterjee Nandini , Karmakar Partha Sarathi , Pramanik Netai
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Diabetes is an important public health problem and considering the extent of the aftermath following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of each disease on lung function individually and also to assess how both the disease entities together in combination affect the lungs.

Methods:

This observational study included adult patients below the age of 60 years with complaints of fatigue. Included patients were assessed for their basic demographics and history of COVID-19 pneumonia. For those diagnosed with diabetes mellitus (DM), the duration of DM and HbA1C were noted. For all included patients, spirometry was performed. Results were statistically analyzed.

Results:

Comparing the spirometry measures of DM patients with and without a history of COVID-19 pneumonia, the mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC, and forced expiratory flow (FEF) 25%–75% for DM patients with COVID-19 pneumonia history was significantly lower than DM patients without a history of COVID-19 pneumonia (P < 0.0001). Comparing the spirometry measures of patients (DM vs. non-DM) with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia, the mean FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, and FEF 25%–75% for DM patients with COVID-19 pneumonia history was significantly lower than non-DM patients (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Considering the high burden of the diabetic population and the extent of the pandemic’s aftermath, clinicians should be aware of this and aim to optimize control of blood glucose levels in uncontrolled diabetics with a history of COVID-19 to prevent the deterioration of lung function.
Study on the Results of Laminectomy with Short Segment Pedicle Screw Fixation in Dorsolumbar Fractures with Respect to Anatomical Reduction, Functional Recovery, and Pain
Authors: Maheshwari Deepanshu , Tonk Gyaneshwar , Agarwal Sumit
Published: August 2024

Background:

This study aimed to report the results of laminectomy with short-segment pedicle screw fixation in thoracolumbar fracture.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-two patients were analyzed prospectively, and followed up in the outpatient department for 24 months.

Results:

The results revealed that most of the patients in the study had reasonable to good neurological recovery in the postoperative period assessed in the form of an American spinal injury association impairment scale (ASIA) score. There was also an excellent improvement in the components of anatomical reduction like vertebral height, Cobb’s angle, and anterior wedge angle, which was directly related to the functional recovery of the patient. Postoperatively, the patients also got relief in pain in the dorsolumbar region assessed based on the Denis pain scale.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that laminectomy with pedicle screw fixation is an excellent option for patients with thoracolumbar fracture, it not only decompresses the spine but also provides stability with minimal manageable complications.
Klippel–Feil Syndrome with Limited Rotation Range of Motion: Our Observation on Radiographic Evaluation of Cervical Spine Case Series
Authors: Verma Abhisht , Garg Isha , Sharma Anamendra
Published: August 2024

Background:

The aim is to identify radiographic changes in the cervical spine or occipitocervical junction in patients with restricted lateral bending and lateral rotation due to Klippel–Feil syndrome. It is important to consider this altered mobility or fusion when planning surgery for hypermobile segments.

Observation:

In Klippel–Feil syndrome, restricted rotation is typically associated with occipitocervical involvement, but it can also be caused by long fusion of the cervical vertebrae alone. If left untreated in early childhood, this fusion and the relatively mobile lower segments can lead to ligament fibrosis and degenerative changes.

Materials and Methods:

Nine patients with Klippel–Feil syndrome were clinically evaluated and underwent plain radiographs. Patients with significant concerns about neck motion underwent CT scans.

Results:

Two out of the nine patients were below the age of 14 years, while the rest were neglected cases. Radiologically, one patient had a single fused cervical segment, two had multiple contiguous cervical segment fusions, and the remaining patients had multiple non-contiguous segments fused.

Conclusion:

All included patients had rotational restriction, but not all had occipitalization of the cervical spine. It is believed that this may be due to prolonged fibrosis affecting the musculature. This finding can impact surgical planning for fusion of hypermobile segments, as it could further limit functional motion in neglected elderly patients who were previously doing well.
Lipofibromatous Hamartoma of the Median Nerve: A Case Report
Authors: Bhatnagar Rachit , Tiwari Ajeet , Gupta Deepti
Published: August 2024

Lipofibromatous hamartoma (LFH) or lipomatosis of the nerve is a benign neoplasm of unclear etiology, which is characterized by fibrofatty proliferation within peripheral nerves. Here, we present a case of a 53-year-old female, right-hand dominant, with chief complaints of a lump in her left palm for many years, and numbness in her thumb, index finger, and middle finger of the left hand past 12 months. According to the patient, the lump has been increasing in size for the last 1 year. The LFH was diagnosed with the help of magnetic resonance imaging images having the presence of thickening of the median nerve, with a coaxial cable-like appearance. The patient was managed surgically through debulking to elevate the pain and numbness. The lack of etiopathogenesis makes the condition difficult to diagnose. Management of LFH is purely based on the extent of the lesion. Conservation of the neurological and sensory function of the nerve while performing surgery was our prime focus. More accurate and reliable tools for diagnosis or precise consensus guidelines will help in early intervention and better outcomes in such patients.
Distal Radius Bone Tumors: A Modification of Ulna Translocation with T-Plate Fixation
Authors: Gupta Praveen , Thakuriya Arvind
Published: August 2024

Background:

Ulna translocation is a well-established technique for surgical management of distal radius bone tumors. Functional outcomes are comparable with their indications in both segment transfer of ulna (U/T) and hand transfer over intact ulna (H/T). Various techniques for fixation have been used; the most popular are K-wire and long distal condylar phalangeal till metacarpal bones with complete arthrodesis of the wrist joint. A simple dorsal T-plate with fixation up to the proximal carpal row along the ulna in both ways can give equivocal results with additional slight flexibility for wrist–hand coordination.

Material and Methods:

A total of 10 cases, aged 10–45 years (mean 25 years) operated from January 2015 to March 2021 at Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India. Giant cell tumor (n = 10) distal radius, the male-to-female ratio of 7:3 were included for retrospective analysis. U/T and H/T were considered in four and six cases, respectively. Resection length was 6–12 cm (mean = 7.8 cm), a long RECON plate was used in two cases, and a dorsal T-plate was used in eight cases.

Results:

All cases were analyzed for functional improvement, survival, and disease recurrence. Two cases were presented with soft tissue local recurrence at 12 and 30 months followed-up, converted to below elbow amputation and wide excision of soft tissue, respectively. One patient presented with delayed union at the proximal ulna-radial bone and one showed delayed union at the distal arthrodesis site. All n = 8 showed union at 3 months on both sides and good outcomes, Musculoskeletal Tumor Society Score of 26 within 6 months. All n = 10 cases of T-plate showed stable wrist joint and 3 cases of U/L showed full supination and pronation, whereas 6 cases of H/T did not show supination and pronation movements. Follow-up was 36–108 months (mean = 60 months).

Conclusion:

Dorsal T-plate can provide good functional outcomes without compromising oncological principles and is comparable with other methods of fixation with the additional advantage of shorter incision to avoid dissection of the metacarpal bone and slight flexibility for wrist–hand coordination.
Effect of Vacuum Assisted Closure Therapy in Orthopaedic Trauma to Reduce Post-Operative Infection in Lower Limb Compound Fractures
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Pratap Priyank , Kumar Dharmendra , Raza Muhammad Shahid , Kumar Ashish , Kumar Sanjeev , Kumar Amit , Sharma Santosh , Sharma Devendra
Published: August 2024

Background:

Patients with road traffic accidents, industrial incidents, falls, or firearm injuries often experience severe polytrauma or orthopedic injuries resulting in compound fractures and grievous soft-tissue injuries, representing a complex clinical situation. The standard treatment of compound orthopedic injuries includes debridement, irrigation, dressing, and antibiotic therapy to control infection, which may or may not require plastic reconstruction procedures once granulation tissue has sufficiently formed. The application of vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy removes local dead space, decreases tissue edema, and promotes granulation tissue formation. VAC shows potential as a novel treatment approach for individuals experiencing severe open fractures following high-energy trauma. This study aimed to compare the postoperative infection rates between VAC and conventional dressing methods in lower-limb compound fractures.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery in King George Medical University, Lucknow, from January 2023 to January 2024, with sample size of 38 patients. Patients were divided into an experimental group (n = 20) and a control group (n = 18) based on the treatment started During VAC application, the wound area was covered with foam and gauze, then an adhesive film was placed over the foam and dressing to seal it. A drainage tube was connected through the foam to a portable vacuum pump. When the pump was turned on, exudate fluid was drawn through the foam and out the drainage tubing into a container. The dressing maintenance time was 5–7 days. As the treatment progressed, serum C-reactive protein and total leukocyte count levels were measured on days 3 and 7, respectively, to study the post-operative infection.

Results and Conclusion:

There was a statically significant difference between the treatment group compared to the control group in terms of hospital stay, wound healing time, and post-operative infection. In conclusion, VAC dressing in the management of compound fracture reduces the frequency of dressing changes, decreases hospital stay, enhances wound healing, and reduces post-operative infection. Therefore, VAC dressing is a valuable modality as an adjuvant in the treatment of compound fractures in clinical practice.
The Burden, Challenges, and Prospects of Hand Surgery Practice in South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Imediegwu Kelechi U. , Ibe Joy C. , Onyebuchukwu Chiamaka Q. , Abor Jude C. , Umeji Ebube I. , Asuquo Bassey B. , Anya Jonah P. , Okeke Kosisochukwu C. , Solagbade Remi S. , Ugwuanyi Uchechukwu D. , Onah Ifeanyi I.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Hand injuries sometimes cause significant loss of function with psychological and functional consequences. The national status on dedicated specialised hand surgery units, hand surgery fellowship programmes, and outcome of operative hand surgery cases is generally lacking.

Aims:

To determine the current state of hand surgery practice in south eastern Nigeria and identify the major challenges to its practice and proffer realistic solutions.

Methods:

This was a prospective and cross-sectional study conducted amongst accredited hospitals for plastic surgery training in south eastern Nigeria amongst plastic surgery senior residents. Data were collected using a well-structured online questionnaire validated by a panel of investigators created as a Google form. Data analysis was carried out using Statistical package for Social Sciences by IBM, version 22. Ethical approval was obtained from the health, research, and ethical committee of the University of Enugu Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.

Results:

There was a 70.59% response rate with 24 residents filling and submitting the questionnaire. Lack of fellowship training opportunities in hand surgery represents the most important challenge of hand surgery practice, followed by lack of appropriate facilities in government institutions in contrast to a lack of funding in private ones. Other major challenges include lack of adequate funding, lack of facilities, late presentation of cases, and lack of appropriate follow-up physiotherapy protocol. Availability of competent hand surgery specialists was significantly correlated with the frequency of hand surgery cases in the facilities (P = 0.000; χ2 = 20.400).

Conclusion/Recommendation:

The current state of hand surgery practice in south eastern Nigeria is not yet optimal. The creation of more hand fellowship trainings and courses bagged first place in recommended solutions by nearly half of the respondents. Provision of modern facilities, creation of dedicated hand surgical units, and better funding to the specialty were other suggestions.
The Trends, Clinicopathological Features, and Treatment Outcomes of Patients with Prostate Cancer in Lokoja, Nigeria
Authors: Ogunmola Ayodeji Olusola , Oyedeji Adedayo S.A. , Fadahunsi Oluseyi O. , Awelimabor Daniel I. , Osunaiye Olutayo I. , Aisuodionoe-Shadrach Oseremen I.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Prostate cancer (PCa) was the most common noncutaneous cancer among Nigerian men in 2020. Despite this high incidence, documented rates may be an underestimation.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine the hospital incidence rate, trends, and characterise the clinicopathologic features, and treatment outcomes of patients with PCa in our institution.

Materials and Methods:

A 5-year retrospective review of patients managed for PCa at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja (FTHL), Nigeria, from 2016 to 2020. Medical abstraction was done on clinicopathologic features, treatment received, serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) at diagnosis, 3, and 7 months of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Data obtained were analysed using SPSS 25, and trends analysis of the annual incidence rate and number of patients with PCa in the period was done using joinpoint regression modelling.

Results:

Of 89 patients, 83 had complete medical records. The average annual hospital incidence rate was 174/100,000, and the mean age at diagnosis was 70.4 years. Locally advanced disease was found in 81.9% of patients, and tumours were ISUP grade groups 4 and 5 in 54.2% of patients. ADT was done in 62.6% of the patients, while 28.9% of the patients defaulted after diagnosis. The mean serum PSA was 71.9 ng/mL (7.7–156) at diagnosis and was 11.1 ng/mL (0.1–102) and 15.3 ng/mL at 3 and 7 months of ADT, respectively. Only 40.6% of the treated patients had a serum PSA ≤ 4 ng/mL at 7 months of ADT.

Conclusions:

Patients with PCa in FTHL, Nigeria, have mostly locally advanced disease at diagnosis. Over half have a high-grade pattern and fail to achieve a serum PSA ≤ 4 ng/mL after 7 months of ADT.
Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis and Helminthiasis. A Case-Based Review
Authors: Ezeaku Chizowa O. , Ejembi Gabriel O. , Balogun Simon A. , Anele Christopher O. , Ajekwu Temitope O. , Komolafe Edward O.
Published: August 2024

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an uncommon and underreported neurological condition. This condition has varied aetiologies, clinical manifestations, and significant sequelae if left untreated. We report the case of a 10-year-old male with fever, altered sensorium, cranial nerve neuropathies, and left hemiplegia. His imaging findings revealed features consistent with CVST, and he was subsequently noticed to be passing live worms per rectum while on admission. He was managed nonoperatively, improved significantly, and was discharged with residual motor deficits. In addition, we present a literature review of published case reports of CVST associated with helminthiasis, highlighting its possible pathophysiology, clinical spectrum, and management peculiarities.
Immunohistochemical expression of Beclin-1 and LC3B in benign and borderline ovarian tumors
Authors: Mousa Wafeya W. , El-Guindy Dina M. , Abd Elazeem Mona A.E. , Amer Alaa I.
Published: August 2024

Background

Epithelial ovarian tumors account for ⁓90% of ovarian cancers. Recently conducted studies have demonstrated autophagy role in tumor development and progression. Autophagic markers include Beclin-1, essential for autophagosome formation and LC3B, required for the elongation step during autophagy.

Aim

To investigate Beclin-1 and LC3B expression in benign and borderline epithelial ovarian tumors along with its relation to clinicopathologic parameters.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six cases of epithelial ovarian neoplasms were subjected to hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining with Beclin-1 and LC3B.

Results

Beclin-1 was expressed in the nucleus and/or the cytoplasm of tumor cells. The cytoplasmic expression of Beclin-1 was significantly more frequent in borderline cases compared with benign tumors. High Beclin-1 cytoplasmic expression was significantly associated with tumor size, gross appearance, and tumor histological type. Benign Brenner tumors were the only benign tumors expressing cytoplasmic Beclin-1 localization. Regarding LC3B expression, nuclear and cytoplasmic subcellular localizations were also detected. Cytoplasmic LC3B localization was significantly more frequent in the borderline groups. A significant relation was observed between high cytoplasmic LC3B expression and tumor size, tumor gross appearance, and histological type. The majority of benign Brenner tumors showed a high cytoplasmic LC3B expression.

Conclusions

The expression of Beclin-1 and LC3B varies in benign versus borderline epithelial ovarian tumors. Cytoplasmic expression is predominant in borderline tumors. Beclin-1 and LC3B cytoplasmic expression is significantly high in small-sized and solid benign tumors. Benign Brenner tumors are the only benign tumors showing cytoplasmic Beclin-1 and LC3B localization.
Postacute coronavirus disease 2019 acute ischemic stroke profile and outcome among egyptians
Authors: Gado Ismaeil H.A. , Elkourdy Alaa M.E. , khalfallah Mohamed A. , El-Heneedy Yasser A.-F.H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is the most dangerous global health crisis since the era of the influenza pandemic 1918.

Aim

The aim of this work was to study the characteristics and short-term outcomes of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in patients recovered from COVID-19 among a sample of the Egyptian population.

Patients and methods

The cross-sectional prospective study included 108 patients: 58 patients with AIS documented by brain cranial computed tomography and/or brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) who recovered from COVID-19 infection for at least 3 months and another 50 patients (control) without history of COVID-19 infection. Neurological examination including Glasgow Coma Score, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) and Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project Classification classification as well as TOAST classification done for all patients.

Results

Regarding modified ranking scale (MRS), a mild increase in the patient group is detected but without significant difference between both groups. Regarding mortality, it was significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group. The relation between presenting symptoms of COVID-19, severity of previous COVID-19, and type of previous infection with NIHSS and MRS of patients, revealed that respiratory manifestations associated with higher NIHSS and MRS. Relation between lymphopenia, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, NIHSS, and MRS revealed inverse relationship between lymphocytic count and NIHSS and MRS, while positive relationship was detected between erythrocyte sedimentation rate, NIHSS, and MRS.

Conclusion

Postacute COVID-19 AIS has characteristic features regarding risk factors, clinical presentation, investigations, etiology, and outcome. The risk of AIS must be considered when the patient has beedn previously infected with COVID-19.
Steel, Extra High Toughness, Corrosion-Resistant, Bars, Wire, Forgings, Rings, and Extrusions 13Cr - 8.0Ni - 2.2Mo - 1.1Al Vacuum Induction Plus Consumable Electrode Melted Solution Heat Treated, Precipitation Hardened (H1000)
Authors:   AMS F Corrosion and Heat Resistant Alloys Committee
Published: August 2024

This specification covers a corrosion-resistant steel product in the solution and precipitation heat treated (H1000) condition, 12 inches (305 mm) and under in nominal diameter, thickness, or, for hexagons, least distance between parallel sides.
Assessment of implementation of biosecurity measures on livestock farms in three regions of Kosovo
Authors: Behluli Behlul , Axhami Dhurata , Gecaj Rreze M. , Mehmedi Blerta , Youngs Curtis R. , Cana Armend
Published: August 2024

Biosecurity is a multicomponent procedure that encompasses risk analysis and management strategies relevant to human, animal and plant life, as well as environmental risk assessment. The aim of this study was to assess data related to biosecurity measures implemented by farmers on cattle, sheep and goat farms in Kosovo. A total of 36 farms from three regions of Kosovo, Pristina, Ferizaj and Peja were included. A questionnaire consisting of one open-ended question and 37 closed questions was administered directly to farmers, and the current on-farm situation was observed by the investigators. Based on the collected results, 86% of farms were cattle farms, 8% were sheep farms, and 6% were goat farms. Among all the farms visited, 67% of them operated with a combined system, 28% with a closed system and only 5% operated with an open system. The vast majority of participants (81%) declared that they did not have sufficient knowledge about the term biosecurity, whereas 11% of them were moderately familiar with the term biosecurity and only 8% of them were quite familiar with the term. 83% reported that their animals undergo a veterinary health check only when necessary. Other biosecurity measures applied less frequently included: showering before entering the farm, specific clothing and shoes for visitors, animal quarantine, disinfection and systematic plan for insect and rodent control. We propose that there is room for improving the level of on-farm biosecurity by enhancing practical training and information from localinstitutions. We conclude that routine integration of biosecurity measures was not demonstrated by most farmers in their management practices and that there is significant room for improvement concerning the level of biosecurity in Kosovo.
Rezidue antibiotika u neciljanoj hrani za životinje - razvoj osjetljive LC-MS/MS metodologije
Authors: Varenina Ivana , Bilandžić Nina , Kos Blaženka , Varga Ines , Sedak Marija , Solomun Kolanović Božica , Čalopek Bruno , Đokić Maja
Published: August 2024

Antimicrobial substances are used on farms for therapeutic, prophylactic, or growth-promoting purposes. Antibiotic residues can be detected in animal feed due to unauthorised use for prophylaxis and as growth promoters, or as a result of unintentional cross-contamination during feed production. The presence of antibiotic residues in food has been linked to allergic reactions, gut microbiota imbalance, development of antibacterial resistance, or potential toxic effects. A multi-residue method was developed for the detection and quantification of 43 analytes from 9 antibiotic classes (penicillins (2), quinolones (2), macrolides (3), lincosamides (1), phenicols (2), pleuromutilins (2), tetracyclines (4), sulfonamides (25), quinoxalines (2)) in animal feed. The method was designed for feed samples with varying contents and particle sizes. Extraction and purification were based on the addition of organic solvents and the solid-phase extraction (SPE) cleanup method to achieve the best analyte response. Antibiotics were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) within 17 minutes in positive and negative scan modes. Average recovery rates ranged from 75.7% (sulfamethazine) to 121.3% (carbadox) with corresponding relative standard deviations of 9.2% and 49.6%. The method is suitable for screening antibiotic contamination in animal feed in the range from 1 to 50 μg/kg and for confirming substances in the range from 10 to 1000 μg/kg. A significant matrix effect was observed when comparing the analysed signals between different feeds, indicating the necessity of using a matrix calibration curve and a standard addition method.
Understanding normal and restricted normal products in soft directed graphs
Authors: Jose Jinta , George Bobin , Thumbakara Rajesh K. , P. George Sijo
Published: August 2024

This paper extends the framework of soft set theory to directed graphs by introducing and analyzing the concepts of the normal product and restricted normal product of soft directed graphs. Building on Molodtsov’s foundational work in developing soft set theory to address uncertainty in data, this study presents new methods for modeling and understanding complex systems where uncertainty plays a significant role. Soft directed graphs, which enhance traditional graph models by incorporating parameters and uncertain relationships, serve as the foundation for this investigation. The normal product, defined as a combination of two soft directed graphs based on their respective parameter sets, and the restricted normal product, which combines soft directed graphs only where their parameter sets intersect, provide a comprehensive framework for these new operations. This paper also establishes the structural properties of these products, ensuring they are well-defined and retain the key features of soft directed graphs. Furthermore, we derive combinatorial identities related to vertex and arc counts, as well as degree sums, offering deeper insights into the composition and behavior of these graph products.
Nicht vs. Sondern. El dilema beethoveniano y el Himno de Europa
Authors: Scarabino Guillermo
Published: August 2024

Este artículo propone una solución más para resolver el dilema planteado por Beethoven en la Novena Sinfonía, mediante sus palabras agregadas al texto de Schiller: “O Freunde, nicht diese Töne! Sondern lasst uns angenehmere anstimmen, und freudenvollere”— “¡Oh amigos, no estos sonidos! Sino permítannos cantar otros más agradables y alegres”—. También, se bosqueja el camino seguido por el paneuropeísmo desde el Congreso de Viena hasta la adopción del Freudetheme —el tema de la alegría— como himno europeo y se analizan otros fragmentos de la sinfonía que convocan a la fraternidad universal.
Ereña Mínguez, Germán. Isidoro Fagoaga. El tenor olvidado Navarra: Publicaciones del Gobierno de Navarra, 2018, 571 pp. ISBN: 978-84-235-3490-6
Authors: Martino Silvina
Published: August 2024

Con el apoyo del gobierno de Navarra y el Ayuntamiento de Berea, el investigador y melómano español Germán Ereña Mínguez publicó en 2018 el libro de corte biográfico Isidoro Fagoaga. El tenor olvidado. El volumen tuvo como objetivo homenajear —en ocasión de los ciento veinticinco años de su nacimiento— al tenor vasco Isidoro Fagoaga Larrache (1893-1976). Este compendio voluminoso dividido en prólogo, introducción, preludio, veintiocho capítulos, cronología, bibliografía y apéndices en línea es el resultado de varios años y arduo trabajo de investigación.
Herrera Ortega, Silvia. La canción política en Sergio Ortega. Santiago de Chile: RIL Editores, 2023, 390 pp. ISBN 978-956-01-1501-0
Authors: Soto Lagos Ximena
Published: August 2024

En este libro, la musicóloga Silvia Herrera nos invita a ser parte —desde un análisis detallado del universo sonoro creado por Sergio Ortega— del mundo en el que la música se hace parte del discurso político del compositor. A dicho discurso se integra, primeramente, desde una necesidad estética —como indica él mismo—, que luego trascenderá de manera importante en la impronta de la canción política chilena y universal.
¿Sólo cuestión de piel? La agencia de los afrodescendientes en la emergencia del canto repentista en el cono sur
Authors: Cirio Norberto Pablo
Published: August 2024

En este artículo se somete a vigilancia epistemológica la teoría del origen europeo de la payada en tanto es imposible de refutar al no seguir el pensamiento científico. Esta teoría fue consecuente al pensamiento hegemónico argentino que construyó una identidad nacional y prescindió de sus Otros internos, como es el caso de los afroargentinos del tronco colonial. Con una visión geocontinental, se procura otro entendimiento del canto repentista en la Argentina, Uruguay y Chile y revisitar la temprana presencia de los afrodescendientes pues fueron los actores nodales del primer género literario-musical local, la gauchesca, a la cual pertenece el canto repentista o payada.
Evaluation of Pedestrian Service Quality for Indian Roads
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Pratap Singh Akhand , Birali R. R. L.
Published: August 2024

Over the past 10 years, India’s traffic flow has expanded dramatically, resulting in congested and densely populated highways. To address these problems, traffic engineers have directed more of their attention towards creating highways that prioritize automobile traffic, frequently at the expense of the safety of pedestrians in crowded urban areas. With as little vehicle-pedestrian interaction as possible, this study aims to create a pedestrianfriendly environment. Determining the study area's Level of Service (LOS) is essential. LOS is a metric to evaluate how well different road users, such as cars, bicycles, and pedestrians, get along. A questionnaire intended to elicit responses in real-time from individuals in the road environment was used to collect qualitative data to calculate the PLOS. All age groups and genders participated in the poll, which consisted of yes/no questions, rating-based questions, and questions with logical choices. The study's findings on pedestrian safety suggest that the study area is a good place for people to walk. Participants thought the neighborhood was safe and the road had all the needed amenities, making it enticing for pedestrians.
A Developed Polar Coded Generalized Frequency Division Multiplexing Based on Bit-Interleaved Coded Modulation
Authors: Ali Ameer H. , Hreshee Saad S. , Al-Chlaihawi Sarab , Najjar Fallah H. , Abdulwahid Saif H.
Published: August 2024

Due to the tremendous development in the wireless communication field and the wide requirements of current generations, such as high data rates, extremely low power consumption, and high performance, it is necessary to think about techniques and methods that present improvement to meet the growing requirements. The introduction of the Generalized Frequency Division Multiplexing (GFDM) technique was one of the proposed methods; it is one of the candidate schemes for the current generations and beyond. GFDM was presented as an improved method over other multiplexing techniques, as it provided an improvement in the field of Out Of Band (OOB) and Peak Average Power Ratio (PAPR). At the same time, it provided a lower performance in BER with respect to SNR. In this paper, methods of enhancement were presented based on Matlab to improve the performance of the GFDM system, which was improved by adding a coding system based on Polar Coding (PC). The proposed method is presented to improve the performance of GFDM by using the Genetic Algorithm (GA) to improve the performance of the Pulse shaping Filter (PSF) in GFDM. The channel estimation is accomplished by means of the LS method, and the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based on feed-forward backpropagation is used to enhance the estimation process. The proposed Genetic Algorithm Artificial Neural Network Polar Code Interleaver GFDM (GNPI-GFDM) presents an enhancement over the traditional GFDM of more than 3.5dB at BER=10-4over the Rayleigh fading channel
An Overview onEffectiveness of Activation Functions in Processing Medical Images
Authors: Al-Shoukry Suhad , Musa Zalili Binti
Published: August 2024

This study studies the impact of activation functions in the field of machine learning and deep learning in general and especially on medical images for different aims such as classification, clustering, feature engineering. Important components that add nonlinearity and allow networks to learn intricate patterns are activation extraction, training and etc. The study first starts by explaining various activation function types that are commonly used in NN applications and fields. Subsequently, a comprehensive comparative analysis is conducted, to evaluate how activation functions perform in terms of accuracy and their impact on speed convergence. Understanding how activation functions impact the categorization of medical imagery is crucial to the study's findings. In additions, the study illustrates overview of which activation functions yield optimal results. The Main results contribute how to select best activation functions that suits most accurate and efficient medical image classification basedon this overview, any researcher can choose best activation function after reading this overview.
Segmentation and Classification of Medical Images Using Artificial Intelligence: A Review
Authors: Breesam Aqeel Majeed , Adnan Sarah R. , Ali Shatha M.
Published: August 2024

In the realm of medical imaging, segmenting and classifying medical images is essential for helping medical professionals diagnose and treat a variety of medical disorders. This review discusses artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. AI systems have shown impressive accuracy and efficiency in identifying and quantifying elements in medicalimages, such as MRI, CT, and X-rays, by utilizing deep learning techniques, in particularconvolutional neural network (CNNs). We describe CNN design and training for medical image segmentation and classification, emphasizing the usefulness of CNNs in identifying and defining diseased regions and anatomical features. Even with obstacles like data privacy, requiring sizable annotated datasets, and requiring model interpretability, further research and development in AL-driven medical images analysis has promise for improving clinical decision-making and diagnostic accuracy. Future research in this area should concentrate on improving the generalizability and resilience of AI models by using methods like data augmentation, transfer learning, and the creation of more complex network topologies. Furtheringthe area also requires guaranteeing ethical concerns, enhancing data-sharing mechanisms, and encouraging cooperation between medical practitionersand AI researchers.
Hybrid Optimal Power System Recovery and Load Pick-Up With DGAllocation In Electrical Power System
Authors: Al-Bakry Sarmad Hussein Hanoon , Al-Jubori Waleed Khalid Shakir
Published: August 2024

The increasing demand for electricity, the expansion of complex power networks, and the operation of power systems near their capacity have heightened the risk of power outages. Consequently, control room operators must develop comprehensive restoration plans to minimize recovery time. Key steps in power system restoration include starting non-black-start units with black-start units and initiating load pick-up. This process requires identifying the shortest route between nodes to expedite repairs. This research presents an expert plan employing the Modified Cuckoo Search algorithm (MCSA) to determine optimal pathways. Additionally, it explores the optimal allocation of distributed generators (DG) to enhance the system's voltage profile and reduce power losses using particle swarm optimization (PSO). The results demonstrate that DG significantly reduces losses during recovery. The study prioritizes the restoration of DGs with strong black start capability, considering network and DG constraints. The effectiveness of the proposed restoration approach is validated through MATLAB simulations on theIEEE 39-bus system.
An Overview of TheProposed Technique for Removing Visible Watermark
Authors: Qazzaz Ali Abdulazeez Mohammedbaqer , Jabbar Zahraa Mohammed
Published: August 2024

Watermarks are commonly used to protect the ownership and copyright of digital media. However, there are legitimate scenarios where watermark removal is necessary. Recent advancements in deep learning have led to the development of sophisticated techniques for both detecting and removing watermarks.this research provides a summary of methods for detecting and removing Regenerative AdversarialNetworks (GANs) are one noteworthy method. It is possible to train GANs to recognize watermark patterns and produce unwatermarked versions of watermarked content. One such method, which uses GANs to find and remove watermarks in deep neural networks (DNNs), has been demonstrated to be successful even when it comes to DNN watermarks that are based on backdoors.Another method makes use of deep neural networks' U-structure, which is highly effective in translating images. A comprehensive model like the AdvancedUnet has been developed to concurrently extract and remove visual watermarks. This model uses a deep-supervised hybrid loss to direct the network in learning the transformation between the watermarked input and the clean ground truth. It also integrates efficient modules to extend the architecture's depth without appreciably increasing computingcosts.
Design and Optimization ofHybrid Renewable Energy Systems forA Residential House in Babylon, Iraq: Insights From Homer Software Analysis
Authors: Billal Lina , Abdullah Ahmed , Ali Faris
Published: August 2024

The study investigates the development and improvement of hybrid renewable energy systems for a residential residence in Babylon, Iraq, utilising the HOMER programme. The project aims to determine the most efficient and cost-effective energy system design for residential usage, in response to the growing global need for sustainable and renewable energy sources. The process entailed examining different permutations of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, wind turbines, and battery storage devices. According to the results, an off-grid photovoltaic (PV) and battery system is the most cost-effective option, with the lowest upfront investment and ongoing expenses. Nevertheless, the integration of wind energy, although enhancing thedependability and variety of the system's energy sources, results in higher upfront and ongoing costs. These findings offer vital information for politicians and engineers to implement renewable energy solutions that are customised to Iraq's specific meteorological and economic circumstances.
DWT-OFDM forCompressed Image Transmission
Authors: Al-Shably Zainab Hdeib , Maki Ghadeer I
Published: August 2024

All existing communications systems require high-speed data transmission rates, as all services today demand high transmission speeds and data transmission dependability, and communications are an essential aspect of daily life. One of the most important modulation techniques used in both wired and wireless communication networks is Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM). It is a cutting-edge technology for achieving high-speed digital communication. In this work, compression Images by Discrete Wavelet Transform and transmission over DWT-OFDM, and used different baseband modulation schemes such as Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK), Quadrature Phase Shift Key (QPSK), Quadrature amplitude modulation (16QAM), and (64QAM) has been considered.From numerical simulation results, it is observed that produced better quality images at the receiver when the Quarter Amplitude Modulation is 16QAM and 64QAM with high SNR
Neural Network forAutomatic Encryption Using Key Component Analysis to Detect Network Intrusion inCloud Computing
Authors: Msaad Jenan jader , Shnin Alaa majeed
Published: August 2024

Cloud computing is one of the networks that has attracted more people's attention than other networks in today's world, and the reason for this is that it stores data in itself. This network consists of different computers that are scattered in different places and each user will be able to be a member in this space by registering in it. Among the many important issues related to the environment is the issue of security, which has become a very complex challenge. In order to secure networks, tools have beencreated, and one of these tools is the use of artificial intelligence methods to establish security in this environment. In most of the researches carried out in this field, either the duration of the algorithm execution was very long or the researches did not have enough accuracy, so article, we tried to detect the penetration in cloud computing. This was done in two different scenarios for feature selection and reduction. In one scenario, we reduced the dimensions using the fundamental analysis method, and in the other scenario, we did this using the bat meta-heuristic algorithm. In both scenarios, we used self-encrypting neural network for classification, and the structure of this network was the same in both scenarios. The reason for using these two scenarios was that we want to compare the accuracy obtained and the execution time of the algorithm for the dimensionality reduction method with principal component analysis and meta-heuristic algorithm. , the obtained results showed that the accuracy of the dimension reduction method with the meta-heuristic algorithm was more accurate than the principal component analysis method, but its execution time was approximately 13 minutes more than the principal component analysis method.
Optimization of Interference Management andPower Control in (Noma) With (Hetnets) Through Sectoring Techniques
Authors: Abbas Wurood Fadhil , Hamza Bashar Jabbar
Published: August 2024

The development of heterogeneous networks(HetNets), in the dynamic field of wireless communications still depends critically on the improvement of power control and interference management. An original sectoring technique to address the problems with Non-orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) systems such power allocation and interference management is presented in this study. It attempts to greatly lower inter-user and co-tier interference, increasing network efficiency and user fairness, by combining a strategic sectoring approach, round-robin channel allocation, and an inverse route loss power allocation framework. In the present work, the Bit Error Rate (BER) performance in a simulated two-tier NOMA-enabled HetNet is analysed using Monte Carlo simulation. The findings show that, especially at higher signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), sectoring considerably lowers BER by around 50% compared to the non-sectoring situation. The results of this work emphasize the need of sectoring in optimizing the efficiency of future wireless network infrastructures and have wide-ranging implications for the deployment of 5G networks and beyond. The findings back up the idea of combining sector-based designs to increase spectrum and energy efficiency, hence increasing the reliability and resilience of future communication systems
Quadrotor Trajectory Tracking Via SMC-Embedded Wild Horse Optimization
Authors: Al-Hsnawy Thamer , Al-Ghanimi Ali
Published: August 2024

This study provides an integrated control strategy with proportional derivative (PD) and sliding mode control (SMC) for a quadrotor. For inner loop control, the SMC, a robust nonlinear control method, is used to increase the system's resistance to uncertainty and shocks. By using high-speed switching in variable structure control, it reduces tracking mistakes. In the meantime, the PD control concentrates on tracking a helical path while controlling the outer loop for trajectory tracking. The PD and SMC parameters (k1, k2, and k3) could not be manually adjusted to produce acceptable results at first. As a result, this work presents an improvement by optimizing these control parameters using the Wild Horse Optimization (WHO) algorithm, a modern and cutting-edge optimization technique. This improvement shows good results in improving the quadrotor's tracking precision and stability, and it also greatly increases system performance.All simulations were performed in MATLAB, which facilitated detailed analysis and validation of the proposed control strategy.