bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of dietary inclusion of raw and fermented hornwort, Ceratophyllum demersum, on growth performance and digestibility of young grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella Val.
Authors: Sayed-Lafi Raad M. , Al-Tameemi Reyadh A. , Gowdet Ali I.
Published: March 2024

A 12-week feeding experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth performance, feed efficiency, digestibility and carcass composition of young grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella (Val, 1844) (4.03±0.16 g) fed on a control diet and two experimental diets (38.5% crude protein). The experiment aimed to assess the utilization of raw hornwort Ceratophyllum demersum (HR) and fermented (HF) by adding 20% of each of the alternative ingredients separately to the control diet (C) to completely compensate barley, a portion of wheat bran and 20% of fish meal. Results indicated that all growth and feed efficiency parameters among groups were no significantly different (P>0.05) in specific growth rate (SGR), food conversion ratio (FCR), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and protein productive value (PPV) of fish fed HR and HF with the control diet. There was no effect (P>0.05) in stimulating digestibility (ADCtotal) when HR and HF were added to the diet. Both HR and HF produced significantly (P<0.05) higher satiation level associated with lower dietary digestible energy contents. The evacuation rate was not affected significantly (P>0.05) by the inclusion of raw or fermented hornwort. Whereas, the moisture, protein and lipid levels in carcass were similar (P>0.05) in all groups, except for the control diet (C), which recorded the highest ash level (P<0.05). In conclusion, the incorporation of raw or fermented hornwort up to 20% level was found to be not suitable, and there were adverse effects on the growth and feed efficiency of experimental fish.
Pembentukan Kelompok Mahasiswa/Alumni Content Creator Gizi Seimbang Remaja untuk Mencegah Stunting dalam Aplikasi Stunting Calculator
Authors: Hayati Aslis Wirda , Husnan Husnan , Roziana Roziana , Pizaini Pizaini , Akhyar Amany
Published: March 2024

Permasalahan remaja stunting di dunia saat ini 22,2% atau sekitar lebih dari 150,8 juta. Dalam upaya pencegahan dan menurunkan prevalensi stunting perlu diberikan kepada remaja pengajaran tentang konsumsi pangan sesuai dengan kaidah gizi seimbang. Pengabmas ini bertujuan menciptakan wirausaha baru berbasis ilmu pengetahuan dan teknologi dengan mengajarkan keterampilan dengan menerapkan ilmu kesehatan melalui pelatihan digitalisasi Buku “Gizi Seimbang Remaja: Cegah Stunting” ke dalam aplikasi stunting calculator di smartphone sehingga mereka menjadi creator konten. Remaja diharapkan memiliki pengetahuan tentang gizi yang akan diinput ke aplikasi stunting calculator, mengetahui persiapan penginputan data, dan menggunakan buku digitalisasi di smartphone. Pelatihan dilakukan bulan Februari s.d. Maret 2023 sebanyak 5 kali pertemuan melalui Zoom meeting dan satu kali melalui luring.. Peserta pelatihan terdiri dari 23 orang. Mereka merupakan mahasiswa dan alumni Jurusan Gizi, Keperawatan, Kebidanan, Reka Medis dan Teknik Informatika di Perguruan Tinggi Propinsi Riau dan Sumatera Barat. Setiap pertemuan diberikan tugas kepada peserta pelatihan dan dilakukan penilaian dan pembahasan di setiap awal pertemuan. Setelah pelatihan peserta membuat grup WhatsApp untuk melakukan komunikasi dan diskusi dalam pembuatan content sesuai dengan peminatan masing- masing peserta. Peserta pelatihan diberikan sertifikat kompetensi sebagai content creator
Role of Microfinance in Promoting Financial Inclusion and Financial Capability in Rural Areas of Rajasthan
Authors: Lal Banwari , Jain Mamta
Published: March 2024

This quantitative study explores the pivotal role of microfinance in fostering financial inclusion and enhancing financial capability in rural areas of Rajasthan. Utilizing a structured questionnaire administered through Google Form, data will be collected from a convenient sample of 480 rural respondents with prior experience in microfinance programs. The study, conducted over a six-month period, incorporates data filtering techniques to ensure the relevance and reliability of responses. Employing the Smart-PLS statistical tool, the research will analyze the relationships between microfinance engagement and financial inclusion and capability variables. The findings aim to provide nuanced insights into the efficacy of microfinance interventions in rural Rajasthan, contributing to both academic discourse and practical implications. The study's policy implications suggest that energy professionals should consider incorporating microfinance strategies to enhance financial inclusion and capability in their sustainable energy initiatives, fostering a holistic approach to rural development.
Fulfilment of the Social Security Rights of Indonesian Migrant Workers after the Transition of the Insurance Consortium Becomes a Social Security Organizing Agency (BPJS)
Authors: Shaliha Rafiatun , Husni H. Lalu , Hamzah Any Suryani
Published: March 2024

This Research aims to analyse fulfillment of social security rights of Indonesian migrant after the transition if the insurance consortium becomes a Social Security Organizing Agency (BPJS). This is normative legal research using statutory approach and conceptual approach as research method. The result of this research showed that there are 13 (thirteen) risk borne by migrant worker social security regulated in insurance consortium and after the transition to BPJS, there are only 3 (three) programs offered, those are JKK and JKM Which are mandatory and JHT which is voluntary. The synchronization of the regulation between PPMI Law with the 1945 Constitution as the basic rule has no problems if a vertical synchronization analysis is carried out, then in terms of fulfilling the rights of PMI and their families, it has fulfilled the principles of Human Rights, although there are still unsynchronized with several other rules such as differences in benefits offered in the BPJS Law with the PPMI Law in horizontal synchronization.
Buying Behavior of Consumers towards Eco-Friendly Products
Authors: Sebastian Shinta , Joshy Aleena
Published: March 2024

Consumer health and wellness are increasingly being threatened by the existing terrible conditions in the environment, both globally and nationally. As a result, customers are showing more environmental sensitivity in their attitudes, perceptions, preferences and purchases. The study mainly deals with the influence of the demographic profile of the consumers on their awareness towards eco-friendly products, what are factors influencing the consumers on purchase decision of eco-friendly products, the satisfaction level on consumers towards eco- friendly products and from which sector consumer make the most purchase in eco-friendly products. The current study is conducted among the college students of Idukki district. From the analysis consumers are aware of eco-friendly products, consumers mostly purchase from agricultural sector, factors such as environmental concerns, awareness of price, awareness of brand image, eco-friendly products experience and cultural factors influence the purchase decision of consumers and consumers have a satisfaction towards the purchase of eco-friendly products.
Developing a Collaborative Understanding of Health Justice in Physiotherapy: Findings from a National Consensus Development Conference
Authors: Dhir Jasdeep , Cleaver Shaun , Lurch Stephanie , Miller Patricia A. , Smith Meredith , Smith-Turchyn Jenna , Udarbe Han Mari , Wojkowski Sarah
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Justice and health equity are necessary to ensure the health and wellness of an optimally operating society. Healthcare leaders, educators, students, and clinicians should endeavour to achieve health justice; however, there is a paucity of literature exploring health justice and similarly, a lack of accepted models or frameworks to actualize this state. There is a need to understand the tenets of health justice that can be integrated across and within the physiotherapy profession. The aims of this project were to build upon a proposed operational definition of health justice through a national consensus exercise and identify concepts related to health justice that could inform physiotherapy education and practice.

Methods:

A facilitated 3-hour virtual consensus development conference was held on November 25, 2022, and included three rounds of discussion and voting. A total of 34 delegates across targeted organizations consented to participate in this study. Participants represented delegates across key Canadian physiotherapy organizations, students, educational and health service administrators, and clinicians across various healthcare disciplines.

Results:

Facilitated discussion within conference rounds informed revisions to the originally proposed definition of health justice. Seventeen concepts met consensus to be included in a collaborative understanding of health justice. These concepts listed in alphabetical order were accessibility, affordability, availability, determinants of health, diversity, equity, inclusion, intersectionality, health, health equity, oppression, power, privilege, quality, racism, social equity, and sustainable health. A post-conference survey resulted in the inclusion of two additional concepts, bias and voice, for a total of 19 included concepts. Ten concepts requiring further exploration were identified.

Conclusion:

This national consensus exercise included interprofessional delegates from physiotherapy organizations, academia, and clinical practice. Conference results can inform the development of curricular content, policies, procedures, and practices by stakeholders in physiotherapy and other healthcare disciplines.
ВПЛИВ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ МЕРЕЖ НА ПОЛІТИЧНУ СТАБІЛЬНІСТЬ ТА НАЦІОНАЛЬНУ БЕЗПЕКУ: ДОСВІД КОРОЛІВСТВА ШВЕЦІЯ
Authors: Гончар Максим
Published: March 2024

У статті проаналізовано вплив соціальних мереж на суспільство, зокрема вивчається рівень викликів та загроз, перед якими постають уряди країн, що змушені реагувати на нові реалії цифрового світу. Описано вплив цифрового виміру протистояння в російсько-українській війні та швидке перетворення інформації на зброю протягом військових дій. Простежено факт зростаючої ролі соціальних мереж у структурі безпеки та оборони сучасних країн. На прикладі Королівства Швеції висвітлено, як соціальні мережі поступово стають важливим фокусом у стратегічних планах та оборонних і урядових документах Швеції. Проаналізовано основні загрози та виклики, які відзначає шведський уряд як такі, що спричинені соціальними мережами та кампаніями з дезінформації громадян у них. Відзначено комплекс заходів з інформаційної безпеки у Швеції: від створення спеціальних агенцій з протидії кібератакам до відновлення програм протидії пропаганді часів Холодної війни.
MAQĀṢID AL-QUR’ĀN: EXPLORING HIGHER OBJECTIVES AND INTELLECTUAL INSIGHTS
Authors: Syed Alaudeen Seyed Ibrahim  , Thameem Ushama
Published: March 2024

This paper examines Maqāṣid al-Qur’ān, examining its noble objectives. It delves into the essential values of preservation, justice, compassion, and knowledge, critically analyzing the origins and relevance of Maqāṣid. It enhances comprehension of Islamic teachings by examining expert viewpoints and various methods for determining Maqāṣid. The objectives include examining preservation, justice, compassion, and knowledge within the Maqāṣid al-Qur’ān framework, as well as the linguistic roots and nuances of the term Maqāṣid. It also covers historical contextualization, expert opinions, and practical execution of these objectives. It further highlights the adaptability and usefulness of Maqāṣid across societies and periods. The significance of this research lies in its potential to deepen the understanding of Islamic teachings by unravelling the higher objectives encapsulated in the Qur'ān. Through Maqāṣid al-Qur’ān, Muslims can get insights into a compassionate and just lifestyle, promoting harmony in varied civilizations. The Qur’ān's inherent value as a source of divine knowledge is emphasized, promoting intellectual and ethical development in people and societies. The findings of this research illuminate the profound nature of Maqāṣid al-Qur’ān, emphasizing its role in shaping ethical conduct and promoting justice, compassion, and knowledge. Timeless relevance comes from these higher goals' adaptability across time and societies. Expert viewpoints and methods strengthen scholarly discourse on Islamic teachings by providing detailed investigations into Maqāṣid. The study improves comprehension of Maqāṣid al-Qur’ān by revealing its higher purposes. Muslims learn a fair and compassionate way of life that works across time and culture from complete exploration.
REVISITING CRITICAL THINKING THROUGH QURANIC LENS
Authors: Hashi Awil
Published: March 2024

Despite the widespread emphasis on teaching critical thinking at international universities, there is a growing concern that graduates are inadequately prepared to navigate the complexities of contemporary crises, revealing significant shortcomings in conventional approaches to critical thinking education. Through comparative text analysis, this study examines the concept of critical thinking through a Quranic perspective, highlighting the integration of ethical, moral, and spiritual dimensions into the traditional critical thinking frameworks. The Quranic perspective acknowledges the existence of knowledge beyond the empirical and physically observable world, urging a recognition of the limitations of human intellect. The study presents a more holistic approach to critical thinking drawing on Quranic teachings to enrich contemporary understanding and practice. By exploring the Quran's emphasis on ethical reasoning, reflective and strategic thinking, restraint and self-control as elements of sound critical thinking, the study identifies both convergences and divergences with Western models of critical thinking. The findings of the Quran's unique contributions to critical thinking include the integration of spirituality for autonomous critical thinking, a holistic approach to reasoning, the central role of the heart in thinking, and the importance of character-building for sound judgment. The research aims to foster a more integrated approach to critical thinking presenting a set of Islamic critical insights that encompass not only intellectual but also spiritual and moral capacities, challenging current educational paradigms and advocating for a comprehensive development that prioritizes character-building together with technical skills such as awareness of cognitive biases and heuristics.
Modeling the Impact of Accounting Conservatism on Information Behaviour in Equity Valuation Based on PLS-SEM
Authors: Amri-Asrami Mohammad , Aghaei Mohammad-Ali
Published: March 2024

Based on residual income valuation models, this study used PLS-SEM with a formative approach to investigate the moderating effects of conservative policies on the relation between accounting information of the current and lagged periods with the equity value of companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange. The sample consisted of 149 companies from 2012 to 2019. The moderating effect of conditional / unconditional accounting conservatism on the relation between current/lagged accounting information and equity value is insignificant at the 10% level. In contrast, conditional conservatism has a significant relation with current/lagged accounting information, current/lagged market information, and equity values. Unconditional conservatism has significant relation with current/lagged accounting information, lagged market information, and equity values. Unconditional conservatism, however, has no significant relation with the current market information. Referring to Ohlson's vision (1995) on the expected long-term convergence between book value and market equity value, this paper's findings show that the current/lagged book value constitutes the structure of linear dynamics used in the residual income valuation model; therefore, the dynamics in residual income evolve on the dynamics of book value and market equity value.
Informal Sector and Financial Development in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Jimoh Sodiq Olaiwola , Akande Rashidat Sumbola , AbdulKareem Hauwah , Jimoh Odunayo Bidemi , Sulaimon Taofikat Temitope , Yusuf Yusuf Toyin , Adegboye Israel , Usman Aminat Mama
Published: March 2024

Since a persistent increase is seen in the size of the informal sector and its continuous coexistence alongside the formal sector and institutional development, this study empirically examines the effect of informal sector size on the financial development in Sub-Saharan Africa for the period 1996-2019. The study represents financial market development by the financial market depth, which is regressed against informal sector size, growth rate of GDP, interest rate, trade openness, and institutional quality index. The study relied on the estimates of the Discroll-Kraay and IV-2LS. Results indicate that informality repressed financial development, while trade openness, growth rate of gross domestic product, interest rate, and institutional quality have a positive impact on financial development. It is therefore recommended for policymakers to reduce the size of informality to improve the financial sector.
Characterizing semi-Dirichlet Algebras and their Graphs
Authors: Rumball Justin
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we relate certain finite-dimensional operator algebras to graphs and define their equivalent properties. Using these graph's properties, we will determine which algebras are semi-Dirichlet and how many non-unitarily similar semi-Dirichlet algebras there are corresponding to graphs with up to five vertices.
Penerapan Good Governance Dalam Pelayanan Administrasi Terpadu Kecamatan (PATEN) Di Kota Padangsidimpuan
Authors: Pasaribu Safran Efendi , Parapat Natalia , Telaumbanua Anita
Published: March 2024

The District Integrated Administrative Service Program (PATEN) is one form of innovation in improving services to the community. So that it can create good governance. The main elements that must be met for the formation of good governance are through indicators of rule of law, accountability, transparency, professionalism, and participation. This paper aims to analyze the implementation of integrated sub-district administrative services in the aspect of good governance at the Padangsidimpuan Utara District Office, Padangsidimpuan City. The research method used is qualitative research with a descriptive analysis approach. Data collection techniques through observation, interviews, and literature study. The data analysis technique is carried out by reducing the data, presenting the data and then drawing conclusions in the form of data findings to answer the research objectives. The results of the study concluded that the sub-district integrated administrative service program has not been able to improve the public service system to the community in the process of providing fast service because it has not paid attention to aspects of good governance
FEATURES OF STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT OF ENTERPRISES IN CONDITIONS OF WAR
Authors: Yepifanova Iryna , Dzhedzhula Viacheslav , Kaplun Rostislav
Published: March 2024

Domestic enterprises in modern times operate in a rather turbulent environment, influenced by war, pandemics, and logistical changes. All of this presents new challenges for enterprise management, requiring a higher level of strategic vision, continuous monitoring, and responsiveness to potential changes. In 2022, most enterprises were forced to reconsider their strategic goals, particularly regarding profit levels. Issues with electric power, logistics, and the occupation of agricultural territories contribute to significant problems in food supply. A notable negative factor is the substantial rise in raw material costs, increasing the production cost for processing enterprises. Therefore, effective strategic management is crucial for processing industry enterprises.

The efficiency at the enterprise level reflects the connection between the achieved results and the amount of resources invested in the activities. The aim of the work is to determine the features of strategic management of enterprises in conditions of a state of war. The conducted analysis showed that strategic management is reasonably understood as the process of managing an enterprise that, through the formation and implementation of strategic goals and tasks, considering the available potential, allows achieving competitive advantages.

The process of strategic management should be adapted to market conditions and self-regulation processes in relations between economic entities. The main emphasis is placed on the development of development strategies and predicting the results of their implementation.

The stages of strategic management are generalized. Hierarchical relationships of factors influencing the strategic management system are proposed. Unlike existing approaches, this allows for a more comprehensive consideration of factors determining the effectiveness of strategic management, considering crisis management, and forming a mathematical model for intelligent decision support in strategic management.
“The Mathematics of Man” by Claude Lévi-Strauss
Authors: Lévi-Strauss Claude , Küchler Susanne , Carey Matthew
Published: March 2024

Claude Lévi-Strauss's essay “Les mathématiques de l'homme,” originally published in 1956, is the least known of all his publications. It is also arguably his most prescient, capturing the enduring possibilities and latent pitfalls in anthropology's relationship with mathematics that have continued to beset the discipline to the present day. The aim of presenting a new translation of this essay is to prompt reflections on the changing landscape of research on and teaching of anthropology, which is still as tangled up with the philosophy and practice of mathematics as it was then.
Complete Correction following Temporary Hemiepiphysiodesis using 2-hole Reconstruction Plates among Skeletally Immature Patients with Angular Deformities around Knees: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rajbhandary Tarun Kumar , Regmi Subhash , Gurung Yam Prakash , Banskota Bibek , Barnawal Satish Prasad , Banskota Ashok Kumar
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Studies have shown that 2-hole reconstruction plates can be used effectively as tension band plates for temporary hemiepiphysiodesis. However, limited data is available regarding the effectiveness of such plates in terms of complete correction rates. This study was aimed to find out the prevalence of complete correction following temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using 2-hole reconstruction plates among skeletally immature patients with angular deformities around knees. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among skeletally immature patients with angular deformities around knees undergoing temporary hemiepiphysiodesis after getting approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: B&BIRC-23-05). The data were collected between 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2018. All skeletally immature patients with angular deformities around knees undergoing temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using 2-hole reconstruction plates were included. Patients who required additional procedures or implants for deformity correction and those who did not provide consent were excluded. Convenience sampling method was used. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was calculated. Results: Among 102 patients, 66 (64.70%) patients achieved complete correction (59.97-69.43 at 95% Confidence Interval). Mean age of the patients was 8.21±3.11 years and 43 (65.15%) were males and 23 (34.84%) were females.Conclusions: The prevalence of complete correction following temporary hemiepiphysiodesis using 2-hole reconstruction plate among skeletally immature patients with angular deformities around knees was lower than that reported in other international studies.
Exploring the Sociodemographic Factors and Consequences related to Alcohol Consumption among Older Indigenous Community of a District in Nepal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Begam Salina , Paudel Shishir , Chalise Anisha , Khan Gulam Moiz , Tuladhar Lirisha , Khadka Santosh
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Alcoholism is a major global public health concern associated with numerous health conditions. Alcohol use has been a cultural part of several ethnic groups in Nepal. This study aimed to explore the qualitative dimension of alcohol use, its promoting factors, and consequences in Nepalese communities.Methods: Qualitative study was conducted among 20 older adults belonging to the Magar community of Mathagadhi Rural Municipality, Lumbini Province, Nepal after acquiring ethical approval from Institutional Review Committee of CiST College (Reference number: 179/078/079). The data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis, and themes were identified based on participants’ responses to explore promoting factors for alcohol consumption along with its consequences.
Results: Traditional beliefs, cultural practices, and socioeconomic factors were the major contributors to alcohol misuse. Increased alcohol consumption during old age was perceived to be associated with body pain, tension, painful life events, and loneliness.
Conclusions: A conflicting perception was observed, where some of the participants expressed the need to promote alcohol use as a part of their culture while some shared the view that the use of alcohol as a cultural practice should be limited. This study highlights the need for culturally appropriate interventions to address alcohol misuse among indigenous communities. Interventions should focus on addressing traditional beliefs and cultural practices that normalize alcohol consumption and the social and economic problems associated with alcohol misuse.
Self-medication among Basic Science Medical Students of a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Lekhak Prabineshwor Prasad , Mainali Nischal , Mandal Swagata , Basnet Smriti , Oli Natalia
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Self-medication is using drugs to treat self-diagnosed signs or symptoms of oneself or others. Being closer to pharmacology and pathology, medical students have been more prone to it. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication among basic sciences medical students in a tertiary care centre in Kathmandu. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among basic science students from 15 February 2023 to 14 March 2023 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 04122022/04). A convenience sampling method was used. Data were collected online and analysed. Point estimate at 95% confidence interval was calculated.Results: Among 322 basic science medical students the prevalence of self-medication was 218 (67.70%) (64.81–70.59 at 95% Confidence Interval). Fever was the most common condition treated by self-medication 106 (48.62%) and paracetamol was the most common medication 93 (42.66%). Of those who engaged in self-medication, 97 (44.50%) did so to save time. Moreover, within this group, 67 (30.73%) experienced adverse drug reactions, leading 37 (16.97%) of these students to visit a private doctor. Additionally, 138 (63.30%) refrained from prescribing medication to their family and friends.
Conclusions: Self-medication among basic science medical students was found to be lower in comparison to other studies done in similar settings.
Metallo-β-lactamase-producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from Two Tertiary Care Centres in a District of Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Shrestha Pushpa Man , Kattel Hari Prasad , Sharma Sangita , Bista Pratibha , Basnet Bhupendra Kumar , Ghimire Prakash , Rijal Komal Raj
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates producing metallo-β-lactamase have caused nosocomial outbreaks, severe infections, and ineffective carbapenem therapy worldwide since 1991. Due to their prevalence, hospital infection control techniques are difficult. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of metallo-β-lactamase among P. aeruginosa isolates from two tertiary care hospitals in Kathmandu.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology and Department of Pathology of two tertiary care centres in Kathmandu from 7 December 2021 to 6 April 2023, after receiving ethical approval from the Ethical Review Board. Isolated strains were identified and tested for antibiotic susceptibility by modified Kirby-Bauer Methods. Metallo-β-lactamase presence was confirmed using an imipenem-imipenem/ ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disc. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at 95% Confidence Interval.
Results: Among 255, Pseudomanas aeruginosa isolates, the distribution of metallo-β-lactamase-producing Pseudomanas aeruginosa was 103 (40.39%) (34.32-46.69 at 95% Confidence Interval). Multidrug resistance categories included multidrug resistance 74 (71.80%), extensively drug resistance 32 (31.10%), P. aeruginosa difficult-to-treat 16 (15.53%) and carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa was determined to be 82 (79.60%).
Conclusions: The study found a high prevalence of metallo-β-lactamase-producing Pseudomanas aeruginosa isolates, requiring early identification, infection control measures, and an all-inclusive antimicrobial therapy protocol to reduce their spread in medical settings.
Early Behavioural Signs among Nepalese Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Shrestha Manju , Suwal Rinkal , Thapa Niranjan , Thapa Chhetri Suchit , Kunwor Bishal , Regmi Shiva Kumar , Shrestha Oshan , Mehta Bipin
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. Earlyidentification of symptoms is crucial for timely intervention, yet diagnosing very young childrencan be challenging due to the variability in symptom presentation and the influence of otherdevelopmental factors. This study aimed to find the prevalence of the emergence of early behaviouralsigns in Nepalese children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Centre for Autism in Kathmandu,Nepal, from January 2023 to June 2023. Ethical approval was obtained, and a sample of 120 childrendiagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder was included in the study. Convenience samplingmethod was used. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was calculated.
Results: Among 120 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, the prevalence of emergence of earlybehavioural signs was seen in 112 (93.33%) (88.83-97.77, 95% Confidence Interval) children.
Conclusions: This study provides insights into the emergence of early behavioural signs in Nepalesechildren with Autism Spectrum Disorder which align with global patterns in prevalence and severity.
Hypokalemia Induced Partial Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus: A Case Report
Authors: Nepali Anil , Adhikari Prakriti , Shah Amit , Paudel Shailes , Bhandari Prakriti
Published: March 2024

Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterised by a large volume of diluted urine production andincreased thirst. In this case report, a 49-year-old gentleman presented with 3 months of polyuria andpolydipsia. He had a repeated history of hypokalemia. On the evaluation of polyuria and polydipsia,he was diagnosed with partial nephrogenic diabetes insipidus based on his inability to concentrateurine after a water deprivation test and his less than 50% response to exogenous desmopressin.On the evaluation of recurrent hypokalemia, the investigation reports met biochemical criteria forthe diagnosis of Gitelman syndrome. He was encouraged to increase his fluid intake as required,and potassium chloride supplementation relieved his symptoms. This case report demonstrates thereversibility of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus with a correction of hyperkalemia.
STEMI and Thyroid Storm: A Case Report of Thyrotoxicosis-Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: David Billy Joseph , Buot Bea Christine Joyce , Castro Rod
Published: March 2024

Thyrotoxicosis-induced cardiomyopathy is a rare but potentially fatal form of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy that warrants immediate medical intervention. A 51-year-old female with no known disease sought consultation because of severe chest pain accompanied by easy fatigability and palpitation. Upon arrival at the ED, there was persistence of chest pain accompanied by vomiting, tachycardia and hypotension. ECG showed STEMI in the lead aVR, and she eventually underwent coronary angiogram, which revealed normal coronary arteries. Ancillaries showed severe hyperthyroidism with a Burch – Wartofsky score of 50. There was an elevated NT-proBNP level, and echocardiogram showed a reduced EF of 28.7% with dilated LV and global hypokinesia. She was hooked to a norepinephrine and dobutamine drip and immediately initiated a hyperthyroid regimen, specifically methimazole, propranolol, and steroids. She was admitted to the critical care unit where initiation of SGLT-2 inhibitor and spironolactone were administered as part of the heart failure regimen. When she was out of thyroid storm, a sestamibi myocardial perfusion scan was requested, which showed normal results with improved EF. The goals of management in thyrotoxicosis-induced cardiomyopathy are early initiation of heart failure regimen, medication to prevent further ventricular remodeling, and treatment of thyroid storm. Early recognition and prompt administration of hyperthyroid treatment leads to a decreased burden of the patient’s disease and a good overall prognosis.
MARKERS OF INFLAMMATION IN RATS UNDER TOXIC INJURY AGAINST DIETARY PROTEIN DEFICIENCY
Authors: Kopylchuk H. , Nykolaichuk I. , Nikorych M.
Published: March 2024

The paper presents studies of biomarkers of the development of inflammatory reactions in the blood serum of rats under the conditions of toxic damage with acetaminophen against the background of dietary protein deficiency.
The animals consumed a semi-synthetic diet during the experiment according to the recommendations of the American Institute of Nutrition. In order to simulate alimentary protein deprivation, rats received a low-protein diet containing 1/3 of the standard daily protein requirement daily for 28 days. The animals were modeled acute toxic damage with acetaminophen after four weeks of experimental diet. The administration of the toxin was carried out at doses of 1250 mg/kg animal body weight in suspension in 2 % starch gel solution once a day for 2 days by gavage. Determination of the level of C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-6 in the blood serum of rats was carried out by the method of immunoenzymatic analysis.
We have established that toxic damage by the drug xenobiotic - acetaminophen against the background of dietary protein deficiency is accompanied by a maximum increase in the level of C-reactive protein (15.5 times) and procalcitonin (10 times) in the blood serum of rats compared to the control value, which can be considered as prognostic biomarkers of the systemic inflammatory reaction under these experimental conditions.
At the same time, under these experimental conditions, hyperproduction of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 was registered in the blood serum of experimental groups of rats with maximum values when toxic doses of acetaminophen were administered to protein-deficient animals, which is consistent with changes in the level of C-reactive protein and procalcitonin.
The fact we found makes it possible to assume that dietary protein deprivation increases the production of TNF-α and IL-6 as pro-inflammatory mediators in toxic liver damage, thus inducing primary damage to liver parenchymal cells..
SUPPLY OF THE ORGANISM WITH VITAMIN A UNDER CONDITIONS OF DIETARY PROTEIN DEFICIENCY AND TOXIC INJURY WITH ACETAMINOPHEN IN RATS
Authors: Kopylchuk H. , Nykolaichuk I. , Kuhaivska V.
Published: March 2024

The paper presents studies of the content of retinol and retinyl esters in the liver and serum of rats under conditions of acetaminophen-induced lesions and alimentary protein deficiency. During the experiment, the animals consumed a semi-synthetic diet of AIN-93. Simulation of acute toxic damage was carried out by per os administration of acetaminophen to rats at the rate of 1250 mg/kg of animal weight. It was found that under the simulated experimental conditions – protein deficiency and toxic damage by acetaminophen – there is a decrease in retinol in the serum of rats with minimal values when entering the body of medicinal xenobiotics, regardless of the amount of dietary protein. An increase in the content of retinoids (retinol and retinyl esters) has been reported in the liver of rats under the conditions of alimentary protein deprivation, which is probably aimed at maintaining the level of vitamin A in the blood. Toxicity with acetaminophen, regardless of dietary protein intake, is a key factor in reducing retinol and retinyl esters levels in rat liver. Under conditions of consumption of a low-protein diet in the body of rats, redistribution of retinoids occurs: an increase in the content of retinol and its storage forms in the liver with a simultaneous decrease in the level of retinol in the blood serum can probably be considered as a prerequisite for the mobilization of vitamin A into the bloodstream.
Smartphonepositionsdaten für quantitativ robuste Ausweisung von Erholungswäldern
Authors: Weis Manuel , Graumann Volker , Götz Lena , Schäfer Tina
Published: March 2024

Besucherlenkung und die Entwicklung von Schwerpunktgebieten für die Walderholung gewinnen aufgrund zunehmender gesellschaftlicher Nutzungsansprüche an den Wald erheblich an Bedeutung. Smartphonebasierte Positionsdaten und statistische Verfahren zur Schätzung kleinräumiger Daten bilden eine methodische Möglichkeit, um das reale Besucheraufkommen in den Wäldern in hoher raumzeitlicher Auflösung darzustellen. HessenForst nutzt GPS-Tracking für einen flächendeckenden Besucherfrequentierungsindex und die Ausweisung von Erholungswäldern.
Identification of key genes and signalling pathways in clear cell renal cell carcinoma: An integrated bioinformatics approach
Authors: S Vinoth , Balasubramanian Satheeswaran , Perumal Ekambaram , Santhakumar Kirankumar
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most prevalent types of kidney cancer. Unravelling the genes responsible for driving cellular changes and the transformation of cells in ccRCC pathogenesis is a complex process.

OBJECTIVE:

In this study, twelve microarray ccRCC datasets were chosen from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database and subjected to integrated analysis.

METHODS:

Through GEO2R analysis, 179 common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified among the datasets. The common DEGs were subjected to functional enrichment analysis using ToppFun followed by construction of protein-protein interaction network (PPIN) using Cytoscape. Clusters within the DEGs PPIN were identified using the Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) Cytoscape plugin. To identify the hub genes, the centrality parameters degree, betweenness, and closeness scores were calculated for each DEGs in the PPIN. Additionally, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was utilized to validate the relative expression levels of hub genes in the normal and ccRCC tissues.

RESULTS:

The common DEGs were highly enriched in Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) signalling and metabolic reprogramming pathways. VEGFA, CAV1, LOX, CCND1, PLG, EGF, SLC2A1, and ENO2 were identified as hub genes.

CONCLUSION:

Among 8 hub genes, only the expression levels of VEGFA, LOX, CCND1, and EGF showed a unique expression pattern exclusively in ccRCC on compared to other type of cancers.
Do implementation interventions improve evidence-based care in acute stroke settings? A Cochrane Review summary with commentary
Authors: Cordani Claudio , Battel Irene
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND: Evidence on acute stroke management is continuously growing. Stroke units are often associated with better access to high-level evidence-based practices, but even there, recommendations can be inconsistently delivered to patients with stroke. Implementation interventions are strategies designed to improve the application of evidence-based care. OBJECTIVE: To provide a commentary on the Cochrane Review by Lynch et al. on the effects of implementation interventions on adherence to evidence-based recommendations by health professionals working in acute stroke units. METHODS: A systematic search was performed in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and other databases. The search was also performed in grey literature databases, trial registries, systematic reviews and primary studies, as well as in the reference list of identified studies. RESULTS: The review included seven cluster-randomized trials (with 42,489 participants). Studies compared the implementation of strategies composed of different parts (multifaceted) to no intervention, or a multifaceted strategy vs another intervention. These strategies were aimed at changing and improving the delivery of care in the hospital. It included health professional participants, such as nurses, physicians and allied health professionals. The authors concluded that there was uncertainty whether implementation strategies compared with no intervention have any effect on patients receiving evidence-based care during their stroke unit admission. Implementation interventions compared to no intervention probably have little or no effect on the risk of patients dying or being disabled or dependent, and probably do not change patients’ hospital length of stay. CONCLUSION: Due to the very low certainty of evidence, there is uncertainty whether a multifaceted implementation intervention, compared to no intervention, can improve adherence to evidence-based recommendations in acute stroke settings.
Handling sensory disabilities in a smart society
Authors: Pivin-Bachler Julie , van den Broek Egon L. , Gomez Randy
Published: March 2024

Billions of people live with visual and/or hearing impairments. Regrettably, their access to systems remains delayed, leaving them socially excluded. The need for universal access of next-generation systems and users’ inclusion is paramount. We pose that a smart society should respond to this crucial need. Following ability-based design principles, we introduce a simulated social robot that adapts to users’ sensory abilities. Its working was assessed via a Rock–Paper–Scissors game in an Intelligent Environment (IE), using three modes: where the user is able to see and hear, only see, or only hear. With this game, two user-studies were conducted using the UMUX-LITE usability score, an expectation rating, and the gap between experience and expectation, complemented with two open questions. A repeated measures Multivariate ANalysis Of VAriance (MANOVA) on the data from study 1 unveiled an overall difference between the three modes, F ( 6 , 6 ) = 6.823, η p 2 = .872, p = .017. Users expected applications to be harder to use with a disability, especially a visual impairment. All modes were considered accessible, with the experience exceeding expectations for the mode with a hearing impairment. In parallel, substantial variance was observed across participants and the results from the open questions suggested improvements. To reduce this variance and increase system stability, study 2 was run with an enhanced design. A repeated measures MANOVA on the data from study 2 confirmed study 1’s findings, F ( 6 , 6 ) = 12.801, η p 2 = .928, p = .003. Moreover, experiences exceeded expectations in all modes and the variance among participants was substantially decreased. We conclude that IE applications managed by a social robot can be adapted to user’s sensory abilities, improving smart society’s accessibility, and, hence, reducing social exclusion.
GCN-Based Risk Prediction for Necrosis Slide of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Deng Boyang , Tian Yu , Ye Qiancheng , Chai Zhenxing , Zhou Tianshu , Zhang Qi , Liang Tingbo , Li Jingsong
Published: March 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers in the world which ranks fourth in cancer deaths. Primary pathological necrosis is an effective prognostic indicator for hepatocellular carcinoma. We propose a GCN-based approach that mimics the pathologist’s perspective for global assessment of necrosis tissue distribution to analyze patient survival. Specifically, we introduced a graph convolutional neural network to construct a spatial map with necrotic tissue and tumor tissue as graph nodes, aiming to mine the contextual information between necrotic tissue in pathological sections. We used 1381 slides from 303 patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School to train the model and used TCGA-LIHC for external validation. The C-index of our method outperforms the baseline by about 4.45%, which proves that the information about the spatial distribution of necrosis learned by GCN is meaningful for guiding patient prognosis
Giardia lamblia infection And Associated Risk Factors Among Patients Who Are Seeking Stool Examination At Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, West Guji Zone, Ethiopia
Authors: Aliyo Ali Alqeer
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND: Giardiasis is one of the major health problems in our country due to the use of contaminated water for drinking and the lack of awareness practices, such as washing fruit before eating and hand washing after latrine usage. Although few studies have been conducted in different parts of Ethiopia, there is a varied reported prevalence and associated factors. Therefore, the current study comes out with updated information.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of _G. lamblia_ infection and associated risk factors among patients seeking stool examination at Bule Hora University Teaching Hospital, West Guji Zone, Ethiopia, in 2023.

METHOD: A facility-based cross-sectional study of 137 patients seeking stool examinations was conducted from February 15 to March 15, 2023. A systematic random sampling method was used to select the study participants. The stool samples were examined using the wet mount technique. Descriptive analysis and inferential analysis were performed. The chi-square test was performed. A p value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: The results of this study revealed that the prevalence of _G. lamblia_ infection was 18.7% [95%CI: 12.1-25.3]. This study revealed that factors such as residency (χ2 = 2.82, P = 0.027), maintaining food hygiene (χ2 = 6.6, P = 0.03), hand washing before a meal (χ2 = 4.25, P = 0.003), source of water for drinking (χ2 = 12.6, P = 0.0001), and patient finger nails (χ2 = 3.47, P = 0.026) were significantly associated with _G. lamblia_ among the patients_._

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: _Giardia lamblia_ was seen among one-fifth of the patients seeking a stool examination. Health facility managers and health care providers work hard on patients' quality of stool microscopic examination and health education on ways of giardiasis transmission in order to decrease the prevalence of _G. lamblia_.