bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE UNIFICATION OF SLAVIC GEOGRAPHERS AND ETHNOGRAPHERS—A PIONEERING ENDEAVOR OF THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY IN THE 20TH CENTURY
Authors:   Geographical Institute “Jovan Cvijić” SASA, Belgrade, Denda Stefan , Radovanović Milan ,   Geographical Institute “Jovan Cvijić” SASA, Belgrade
Published: October 2024

Throughout human history, science has been the driving force of changes in societies. Unfortunately, many historical circumstances, including security, economic, and health risks, as well as spatial and cultural differences, have affected the extent of cooperation among the scientific community. Precisely, the fragmentation of the Slavs, as well as their “immersion” in broader communities, made it impossible to discuss joint plans and their realization. Although the initial outlines of cooperation existed at the beginning of the 20th century, only after the Great War did the first activities on this issue begin. As one of the prominent representatives of European geography, Jovan Cvijić encouraged the establishment of the “All-Slavic Scientific Council”. Confirmation of his engagement was the initiation of the First Congress of Slavic Geographers and Ethnographers in Prague in June 1924. In accordance with the agreement, Congresses followed in Poland (1927), the Kingdom of Yugoslavia (1930), and the Kingdom of Bulgaria (1936). In addition to Cvijić, respected scientists from Czechoslovakia (Václav Švambera, Václav Dedina, Jiří Daneš, Viktor Dvorsky), Poland (Eugeniusz Romer Ludomir Sawicki, Walery Goetel, Jerzy Smoleński), Bulgaria (Anastas Ishirkov, Mihailo Arnaudov, Ivan Batakliev), and USSR (Yuly Shokalsky, Evgeniy Spektorsky) were present. Support was also provided by representatives of the French (Emmanuel de Martonne, Pierre Defontaines), British (John Bartholomew), and Italian geographical schools (Giuseppe Caraci, Riccardo Riccardi). After Cvijić’s death, Yugoslavia was represented by professors Pavle Vujević, Borivoje Ž. Milojević, Stevan P. Bošković, Sima M. Milojević, Borivoje Drobnjaković, Milisav Lutovac (Belgrade), Artur Gavazzi, Josip Roglić (Zagreb), Niko Županič, Jože Rus (Ljubljana), Petar S. Jovanović, Vojislav S. Radovanović, Atanasije Urošević (Skoplje) and other prominent scientists. The working part was divided into eight thematic sections. The emphasis was on current topics in physical geography, as well as in the field of ethnology and related branches. The results of the held Congresses were expressed by the adoption of a number of resolutions that had application significance. However, there was no discourse, i.e., polemics about socio-political, demographic, and other problems which had to be the focus of interest of the research community. Nevertheless, this pioneering venture showed numerous opportunities for cooperation among Slavic countries. Unfortunately, 88 years have passed since the last event. The upcoming fifth Congress, which will be held in October 2024 in Belgrade, will provide an overview of new scientific findings, as well as answers to numerous “open” questions.
THE ITALIAN GEOGRAPHICAL SOCIETY AND EUGEO AS HUBS OF GEOGRAPHICAL RESEARCH AND THOUGH
Authors:   Università per Stranieri di Siena, Siena, Italy, Tabusi Massimiliano
Published: October 2024

The Italian Geographical Society (SGI) (http://www.societageografica.it/) was founded in Florence in 1867—at that time the Capital of Italy. Over the last 100 years, and still today, the headquarters has been based in Rome, Palazzetto Mattei, a 16th century building within Villa Celimontana, a public park a few hundred meters from the Colosseum. SGI mission is to promote and disseminate geographical culture and knowledge, enhancing the understanding of the territory, landscape, environment, and the safeguarding of cultural heritage. The SGI acts as a hub for geographical research and thought, with a network connecting academic scholars and geography enthusiasts in Italy, but also in connection with wider international networks. The SGI has always considered the international scale to be important, participating in the main scientific events of international geography. Precisely for this reason, the SGI is among the creators and founders of the Association of European Geographical Societies (EUGEO) (www.eugeo.eu). The initial objectives of EUGEO were to improve communication and exchange ideas between member institutions, to act as a lobbying body for geography in Europe, to improve synchronization of geographical research at a Pan-European level, and to identify new scientific and educational responsibilities for geography within Europe so as to position geography more fully within the center of the European debate. This European institution is now consolidated and carries out its functions in several ways. Contact and dialogue between the various geographical societies takes place through the annual General Assembly; the EUGEO Congresses have acquired increasing importance (in Barcelona, in 2024, the Congress was attended by 750 registered delegates representing 48 countries), taking place every two years and reaching the tenth edition in Vienna in 2025 (https://www.oeaw.ac.at/isr/eugeo-2025). To bring academic geography to contribute to the public debate, in 2018 EUGEO decided to bring to the European and then global scale a “popular” initiative born in 2017 in France thanks to the CNFG (EUGEO member): the GeoNight (www.geonight.net). The 2024 edition registered 286 approved events from 36 countries, with at least one event in each continent. Everyone is invited to submit an event proposal for the 2025 edition, which will be held on April 4th.
TRENDS AND PERSPECTIVES IN LINGUISTIC GEOGRAPHY: A CONTESTED BUT FERTILE FIELD
Authors:   University of Belgrade, Faculty of Philology, Department of General Linguistics, Belgrade, Božović Đorđe
Published: October 2024

That language use and geographical space interact manifoldly with each other, is a well-known truism both in linguistics and in anthropogeography. However, the exact nature of this relationship is still largely underresearched and poorly understood. Such interdisciplinary endeavours like linguistic geography/geolinguistics or areal/spatial linguistics have remained somewhat marginal and often contested, despite wealth of research topics and innovative methodologies they bring, with a highly interdisciplinary potential. The aim of this paper is therefore to present a methodological discussion, including an historical survey, of the main research topics, trends, and perspectives in linguistic geography understood as an inter-discipline, broadly construed at the intersection of linguistics and anthropogeography, while taking the South Slavic dialect space as the main source of data. Topics covered include toponomastics and geographical terminology, issues in dialect geography, linguistic areas, and linguistic landscapes. In particular, the paper examines the interdisciplinary perspective of geolinguistic research and its intersections with related disciplines such as historical, regional, and population geography. In addition, possible methodological innovations, such as the use of GIS, are discussed in the context of South Slavic data.
Karakteristik Penderita Kanker Serviks di Rumah Sakit Murni Teguh Medan Periode April-Juni Tahun 2024
Authors: Zahira Niza , Hutapea Johnson , Lina Juliana
Published: October 2024

Salah satu masalah kesehatan dunia yang selalu medapat perhatian adalah kanker serviks yang merupakan jenis kanker ke empat paling sering ditemukan pada perempuan di seluruh dunia dengan 660.000 kasus baru dan sekitar 350.000 kematian pada tahun 2020serta menempati urutan ke dua sejumlah 36.633 kasus setelah kanker payudara di Indonesia. Tujuan untuk mengetahui frekuensi, distribusi karakteristik kejadian kanker serviks di Rumah Sakit Murni Teguh Medan Periode April-Maret Tahun 2024.
Keadaan Psikologis Mahasiswa Kedokteran Gigi Universitas Sumatera Utara yang Sedang Melaksanakan Pembelajaran Daring
Authors: Siregar Shabrina Alifah , Yanti Gema Nazri
Published: October 2024

This study aims to identify the characteristics of students during online learning, as well as evaluate their state and level of stress, anxiety, and depression using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS). This research is a descriptive survey research, namely to find out the psychological state of students of the Faculty of Dentistry, University of North Sumatra who are carrying out online learning using the depression anxiety stress scale questionnaire (DASS-42) which consists of stress, anxiety, and depression. This research was conducted at the Faculty of Dentistry, University of North Sumatra which is located in Medan City, North Sumatra Province. This research was carried out from June 2021 to July 2021. Results, In terms of anxiety, 74.5% did not have difficulty swallowing, and moderate anxiety was the highest (31.2%). For depression, 66.8% did not feel that their lives were meaningless, with normal depression being the highest (50.6%). Stressors include learning tasks (72.5%), unavailability of practical tools (64.4%), limited internet quota (61.1%), and boredom with online learning (48.2%).
Manajemen Kualitas dalam Meningkatkan Efisiensi Proses Bisnis Perusahaan
Authors: Safuan Safuan , Rini Rini , Maulidta Dea , Hijriyana Valenthreeas , Azzahra Fatemma
Published: October 2024

In an era of increasingly fierce business competition, companies are required to improve efficiency in every business process. One of the crucial aspects that can support efficiency is the implementation of proper quality management. Quality management is a systematic approach to managing and improving the quality of products, services, and processes in an organization, with the goal of meeting customer expectations and achieving optimal efficiency. This research explores various quality management approaches such as Total Quality Management (TQM), Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and ISO 9001. This approach has a focus on continuous improvement, elimination of waste, and increased customer satisfaction. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method to analyze the implementation of these models in improving the efficiency of the company's business processes. The results of the assessment from the media expert, Mr. Muhammad Ikhwan, S.Pd., M.Pd showed the feasibility of the media with an average score of 92.17%, while the assessment of the material expert, Mrs. Nurul Isnaeni, S.Pd, obtained an average of 96.19%, with the category of "Very Feasible" for all aspects. This study proves that Powtoon-based learning media is effective and feasible to use in the context of education.
Integration of AI-based software as a medical device into Russian healthcare system: results of 2023
Authors: Gusev A. V. , Artemova O. R. , Vasiliev Yu. A. , Vladzymyrskyy A. V.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Healthcare is one of the priority sectors for the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies worldwide, including Russia. A key area of AI deployment is the integration of AI-base software as a medical device (AI SaMD) into the Unified digital systems of the healthcare sector of the Russian Federation.Aim. Research of the results of the deployment of AI SaMD in healthcare of the Russian Federation in 2023.Materials and methods. The State Register of Medical Devices and Organizations (individual entrepreneurs) engaged in the production and manufacture of medical devices was used as information about AI SaMD registered in Russia. As information on the deployment of AI SaMD, data from monitoring to the federal project “Creating a single digital system in healthcare” was used, including reports from constituent entities of the Russian Federation upon these activities. The results of the implementation of AI SaMD in Moscow were obtained according to data from the Moscow Department of Health as part of an experiment on the use of innovative technologies in the field of computer vision for the analysis of medical images.Results. As of January 1, 2024, Roszdravnadzor registered 26 AI SaMD, 77 % of them were developed by 13 Russian companies. At the end of 2023, 84 (94 %) constituent entities of the Russian Federation met the minimum established target for the purchase of AI SaMD. Within the framework of public procurement procedures provided by law, 106 government contracts were signed for the purchase and deployment of AI SaMD for a total amount of 448 million 430 thousand rubles.Conclusion. In 2023, the Russian healthcare system made a significant breakthrough in terms of the practical deployment of AI SaMD. Completed procurement and deployment projects are the basis for subsequent industry development.
Pre-vocational education as a factor in the development of human resources in the healthcare system
Authors: Biryukova N. V. , Khalfin R. A. , Madyanova V. V.
Published: October 2024

Pre-professional medical education in high school provides not only a more in-depth study of individual subjects of general education programs, but also expands the opportunities for self-determination of students, ensures continuity of the educational process, allows boys and girls to adapt more successfully mastering higher medical professional education programs and is the basis for a successful career.Aim. To evaluate the results of the introduction and implementation of the model of pre-professional medical and pharmaceutical education using the example of the Resource Center «Medical Sechenov Pre-University» of the Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University) (hereinafter referred to as the Pre-University) as a means of developing the human resources potential of the healthcare system on the territory of the Russian Federation.Materials and methods. During the work, a theoretical analysis of domestic and foreign literature on the problem of developing the human resources potential of the healthcare system was carried out. A study was conducted in the comparative aspect of the basic readiness of students in grades 8-11 at the Pre-University and specialized medical and biological classes of regional educational institutions to the choice of medical specialties using a test questionnaire with the identification of three key aspects: readiness to master medical specialties; self-assessment of capabilities and erudition in the field of modern medicine. 1465 people took part in the survey. The reliability of the results was carried using the Mann-Whitney U test. Assessment of the statistical significance of differences between the means was carried out at a critical level of p = 0.05.Results. Studying at the Pre-University of Sechenov University allowed the majority of adolescents to achieve higher levels of formation of the main indicators of basic readiness to choose medical specialties. The share of students with a high level of readiness to master medical specialties at the Pre-University is 13.8 % higher compared to students of specialized medical and biological classes, with high erudition – 13.8 % and 6.7 % higher those who highly assess their prospects for entering a medical university.Conclusion. Pre-professional education based on close interaction between the Pre-University and Sechenov University allows students to develop motivation to choose a medical profession, as well as a clear understanding of the learning process in the chosen profession and is an important link in the system of continuous educational trajectory «pre-university–university–clinic».
İSLAM HUKUKUNDA DEPREMDEN DOĞAN CEZAİ SORUMLULUK ÖRNEĞİ: CİNÂYET-İ HÂİT
Authors: Ayaklı Muhammed Halil
Published: October 2024

Toplumsal yaşam bakımından doğurduğu sonuçlar itibariyle hukuku ve bilhassa ceza hukukunu doğrudan ilgilendiren ve dönem dönem kendini gösteren depremler, insanoğlunun dikkatsiz ve özensiz davranışları ile birleşince amansız tuzaklara ve kitle imha silahlarına dönüşebilmektedir. Deprem, bir yandan bina veya yapı eserlerinin yıkılması sebebiyle ölüm ve yaralama hadiselerinin gerçekleşmesine sebep olmakta diğer yandan ise oluşturduğu korku, kaos ve kargaşa ortamı sebebiyle potansiyel suçlulara bir fırsat sunmaktadır. Vazedildiği ilk andan itibaren günümüze kadar gelen süreçte İslam hukukçuları hayatın her alanına ilişkin kural ve yasakları en ince ayrıntısına kadar tespit etmiş ve bizlere hukuka dair zengin bir malzeme mirası bırakmıştır. Söz konusu kaynaklar bünyesinde depreme ve doğurduğu zararlı sonuçlara ilişkin bilgileri de bulabilmek mümkündür. Bu çalışmada klasik İslam hukuku kaynaklarında geçen “yıkılmaya yüz tutmuş duvarlar” bahsi, dikkat ve özen yükümlülüğüne aykırı davranışlar sebebiyle gerçekleşen bina veya yapı eseri yıkılmaları sonucunda meydana gelen ölüm ve yaralama hadiseleri ekseninde incelenmiştir. Bu kapsamda, günümüz hukuk anlayışıyla, yer yer pozitif hukuk ile mukayeseye başvurarak ve yargı kararlarından yararlanılarak cinâyet-i hâit suçunun özel unsurları tespit edilmiş, tespit edilen unsurların her biri ayrı ayrı irdelenmiş ve suça karşılık öngörülen yaptırımlara değinilmiştir.
Analisis Strategi Mempertahankan Pengungkapan Kualitas Laporan Keuangan Pemerintah Daerah Provinsi Sumsel Yang Meraih Opini Wajar Tanpa Pengecualian Pada Dinas Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Air Provinsi Sumsel
Authors: Mawardah Arbainah , Noviardy Andrian
Published: October 2024

Research background/Problem: The goodness of the South Sumatra Province regional government's financial reports which have been audited by the Financial Audit Agency (BPK) is seen from 2014 to the present, resulting in an unqualified audit opinion Research objective: What strategies are carried out to assist the disclosures produced in Regional Government Financial Reports that receive an Unqualified Opinion in South Sumatra Province, which are carried out at one of the regional apparatus organizations, namely the South Sumatra Province Water Resources Management Service. Research method: using descriptive qualitative research methods through interviews, observation and documentation with reference to Rangkuti Theory, namely SWOT analysis. research results: Findings obtained through interviews conducted, the author in this research identified important strategies used by the Water Resources Management Service in maintaining good quality financial reports, which have been prepared using SWOT analysis, there are three strategies, namely the use of applications SIPD, reconciliation of monthly financial reports and training and testing of human resource capabilities. Conclusion: Although these findings reveal strengths, there are still several limitations which become weaknesses, namely lack of supervision for employee compliance with regulations, difficulty integrating data from various ongoing projects and programs and lack of monitoring of financial transactions to ensure there are no errors or fraud.
Pengaruh Sistem Kerja Dan Kesejahteraan Terhadap Kinerja Tenaga Outsourcing Di PT.PLN (Persero) Rayon Ampera Palembang
Authors: Ariyani Arika , . Heriyanto , . Trisninawati , Roni Mukran
Published: October 2024

This study aims to evaluate the impact of work systems and welfare on the performance of outsourcing employees at PT.PLN (Persero) Rayon Ampera Palembang. The research employed a population method, with all 40 outsourcing employees serving as the sample, using total sampling techniques. Data was collected through questionnaires utilizing a Likert scale as the measurement tool. The study used a quantitative approach, incorporating validity and reliability tests, classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression analysis, as well as t-tests, F-tests, and determination tests, all conducted using SPSS version 25 software. The findings indicate that both the work system and welfare variables positively influence the performance of outsourcing employees, both individually and collectively.
Analysis of Segmenting, Targeting, Positioning and Marketing Mix Strategies on The MSME Training and Coaching
Authors: Andriyanto Irwin , Hamdi Edi , Indradewa Rhian , Munandar Agus
Published: October 2024

This study aims to analyse the implementation and effectiveness of Segmenting, Targeting, Positioning (STP) and Marketing Mix NICE (Networking, Interaction, Common Interest and Experience) strategies at PT Indotraining Multi Solusi's MSME training and coaching institution. Using qualitative methods that include observation, document analysis and interviews with managers and participants, this study evaluates the effect of these strategies on increasing the marketing capacity of PT Indotraining Multi Solusi. The results show that effective integration of STP and Marketing Mix can significantly improve market understanding and competitive position with similar competitors.
Pengaruh Kompetensi Dan Profesionalisme Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Dengan Budaya Kerja Sebagai Variabel Moderasi Pada Dinas Pariwisata Pemuda Dan Olahraga Kota Payakumbuh
Authors: Roza Elvia , Putri Anne
Published: October 2024

This research aims to analyze and test the influence of competence, professionalism on performance with work culture as a moderating variable at the Payakumbuh City Youth and Sports Tourism Office. This type of research is quantitative research. This sample is all employees of the Payakumbuh City Tourism, Youth and Sports Department. The sampling method uses the census method, where all members of the population are used as research samples. This research uses primary data obtained through questionnaires delivered directly to all employees of the Payakumbuh City Tourism, Youth and Sports Department totaling 62 questionnaires and all respondents returned the questionnaires. The data was processed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis using the SmartPLS application. The research results show that competence has a significant positive effect on employee performance. Then other results show that professionalism has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. Competency which is moderated by work culture has a negative and insignificant effect on employee performance. Meanwhile, professionalism moderated by work culture has a positive and insignificant effect on the performance of employees of the Payakumbuh City Tourism, Youth and Sports Department.
Pengaruh Sistem Informasi Akuntansi dan Gaya Kepemimpinan Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan Pada PT. Citra Abadi Sejati
Authors: Janati Nadya Zahra , Rizqi M. Nur , Hurriyaturrohman Hurriyaturrohman
Published: October 2024

This research aims to analyze the influence of Accounting Information Systems and leadership style on employee performance at PT Citra Abadi Sejati This study is associative in nature and utilizes quantitative data obtained from questionnaires distributed to employees The research population includes all employees of PT Citra Abadi Sejati, totaling 1,561 employees. Sampling using purposive sampling method based on specific criteria resulted in a sample of 66 individuals. Hypothesis testing was conducted through partial and simultaneous tests The results indicate that the accounting information system has a positive and significant impact on employee performance, thus accepting H1 and rejecting H0. On the contrary, for leadership style variables, it is shown that leadership style does not have a positive and significant influence on employee performance, thus rejecting H2 and accepting H0 Meanwhile, simultaneously, SIA and leadership style have a positive and significant influence on employee performance, thus accepting H3 and rejecting H0.
Analisis Sistem Informasi Akuntansi Penggajian Dan Pengupahan Dalam Upaya Pengendalian Internal Pada PT. Srijasa Brika Perkasa Palembang
Authors: Astuti Dewi , Helmi Sulaiman , Sartika Dewi , Gustini Emilia
Published: October 2024

This research aims to determine the internal control of PT. Srijasa Brika Perkasa as well as payroll and business wage accounting data systems. Descriptive analysis was used in this research. Three approaches were used to obtain data: documentation, observation, and interviews. The analysis findings show that, although there are several weaknesses, internal control has generally been implemented well. One of them is the finance department which still handles many tasks, such as paying salaries and wages to employees, making payroll, and recording attendance. Apart from that, employee attendance list data is still modified manually, so that the list only contains attendance times. In addition, the lack of supervision of staff attendance records shows the company's vulnerability as a result of inadequate internal control systems in payments.
Pengaruh High Perfomance Human Resource Management Practices Terhadap Organizational Citizenship Behavior Yang Dimediasi Work Engagement
Authors: Handayani Ririn , Kurniadi Yudho Oktano , Seswandi Agus
Published: October 2024

This study uses a quantitative method with a descriptive and explanatory survey approach. The research was conducted at the Land Office of Kampar Regency, with the aim of examining the effect of high-performance human resource management practices on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) mediated by work engagement. The population of this study consists of all employees of the Land Office of Kampar Regency, totaling 144 people. Based on this population size, according to the Krejcie and Morgan table (1970), the sample size for this study is 103 people. The sampling method used in this study is Systematic Random Sampling. All respondents will be used to collect primary data related to the variables, which will be gathered through a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale. The high-performance HR practices variable is measured using indicators from Wei et al. (2011). The work engagement variable is measured using indicators from Schaufeli and Bakker (2004). Organizational citizenship behavior is measured based on the OCB-C Checklist by Spector, P. E., Bauer, J. A., & Fox, S. (2010). All data collected will be analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Smart PLS 3.0 analysis tool. This study found that (a). High-performance HR practices have a positive effect on organizational citizenship behavior; (b). High-performance HR practices have a positive effect on work engagement; (c). Work engagement has a positive effect on organizational citizenship behavior; and (d). Work engagement mediates the effect of high-performance HR practices on organizational citizenship behavior.
Pola Komunikasi Ibu Tunggal Dalam Proses Perkembangan Karakter Anak Studi Kualitatif pada Mahasiswa/i Ilmu Komunikasi FISIP UNSIKA Angkatan 2020
Authors: Lestari Rani Rizka , Yusup Eka , Oxcygentry Oky
Published: October 2024

The high rate of divorce in Indonesia raises new concerns for parents in educating their children. The integrity of family members is essential in fostering positive character development in children. For a mother, fulfilling two roles within the family is not an easy task. The application of different communication patterns can lead to varying character development in children. This study aims to identify the communication patterns employed by single mothers in the character development of their children, as well as to understand the obstacles faced by single mothers in communicating with their children. This research uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological study approach. The theory used in this research is symbolic interactionism. Data collection was conducted through observation, in-depth interviews, and literature studies. The findings indicate that there are several different communication patterns implemented by single mothers in educating and shaping their childrens  positive character. The obstacles faced by each family vary, but each family strives to maintain effective communication within the family.
The moderating role of energy consumption in the relationship between trade openness and environmental degradation: evidence from Pakistan and China
Authors: Fayaz Muhammad , Kabir Wajid , Tariq Abdullah , Rasheed Muhammad Ijaz , Ahmad Sajjad , Rehman Zia Ur
Published: October 2024

Every country wants to accomplish the sustainable development goal. For this reason, each country protects the environment, expressing widespread concern over environmental degradation. Furthermore, trade is the most essential component of economic growth, and energy is the primary source of production and environmental degradation. Therefore, the study aims to investigate the moderating effect of energy consumption on the link between trade openness and environmental degradation in the case of China and Pakistan. It will utilise data from 1990 to 2020 and employ ARDL and Granger causality estimation techniques. This study revealed that energy consumption and GDP growth are constructive. At the same time, inflow, FDI, and trade openness have negative consequences on CO2 emission in China, while all the variables have positive effects on CO2 emission in the case of Pakistan. This study confirms the existence of the Environmental Kuznets Curve and the moderation effect of energy consumption in both countries. This study also found that there exists a one-way causality running from CO2 to energy consumption and trade openness to CO2 in the case of China. This study suggested focusing on screening and identifying environmentally friendly enterprises.
Inspecting the potential of thymol as a therapeutic agent for treating Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Muhammad Waleed Imran  , Sanwal Sardar Nawaz  , Muhammad Moaz
Published: October 2024

Thymol (2-isopropyl-5-methylphenol) is the main monoterpene phenol occurring in essential oils isolated from plants, like thyme, belonging to the Lemnaceae family.1  Due to its antioxidant, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties, thymol has been used since ancient times for therapeutic purposes.2 This letter specifically focuses on using thymol in treating Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder which is caused due to the extracellular accumulation of amyloid B (AB) plaques and intracellular aggregations of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) formed due to hyperphosphorylation of microtubule associated t (tau) protein. The accumulation of these substances in various parts of the brain causes neuronal damage and death.3
Due to its free radical scavenging and antioxidant capabilities, thymol is able to scavenge the reactive oxygen species produced by the amyloid aggregates, thus attenuating the potential oxidative damage that they would cause. Thymol can also alleviate protein kinase C activity as a memory-related protein.4 thymol has proved to reduce the cognitive defects and was also found to alleviate learning and memory impairment in rat models.5,6 Although thymol has a lot of beneficial effects against cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer’s, all of the experiments have been done on rat models; hence thymol’s therapeutic potentials in modulating and preventing Alzheimer in humans need to be fully explored.
The effectiveness of liver function tests in the prediction of mortality in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Erdem Erdi Huseyin , Aydinli Bahar , Dogru Serkan , Ozmen Harun
Published: October 2024

Objective: To evaluate the impact of liver function test abnormalities on mortality in critically ill coronavirus disease-2019 patients.
Method: The single-centre, retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesiology and Reanimation, Mersin City Training and Research Hospital, Turkiye, and comprised data from March 2020 to January 2022 of patients with positive real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test on nasopharyngeal swab sample for coronavirus disease-2019. Comorbidities, demographic data, admission to and discharge from the intensive care unit, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores, complete blood count on the first and second day of hospitalisation, coagulation parameters, biochemical analysis, 7-day, 28-day and total mortality of the patients in the intensive care unit were recorded. The patients were then divided into groups, with Group 1 having patients with normal liver enzymes, Group 2 having patients with abnormal liver enzymes, and Group 3 having patients with liver damage. Data was analysed using SPSS 20.
Results: Of the 940 subjects, 587(62.4) were males and 353(37.6) were females. The overall mean age of the patients was 67.11±16.65 years. There were 395(42%) patients in Group 1, 534(56.8%) in Group 2 and 11(1.2%) in Group 3. Gamma-glutamyl transferase-1s, aspartate aminotransferase-2nd and albumin-2nd were significant predictors of mortality (p<0.05).
Conclusion: High gamma-glutamyl transferase, aspartate aminotransferase and low albumin levels in critically ill coronavirus disease-2019 patients could be considered indicators of high mortality rate.
Key Words: Coronavirus, Critical illness, Liver function test, Pandemic.
Comparison of ilioinguial/iliohyphogastic nerves block with wound-infiltration on postoperative pain – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Khan Robyna Irshad , Hameed Malika , Ali Summaiya Ahsan
Published: October 2024

Objective: To compare postoperative pain scores at rest and on movement in patients undergoing open inguinal hernia repair between those receiving illioinguinal/illiohypogastric nerve block with ropivacaine or wound infiltration with ropivacaine.
Method: The randomised clinical trial was conducted at the Department of Anaesthesiology, Aga Khan University Hospital a tertiary care centre from March to August 2019 and comprised patients of either gender scheduled for elective unilateral open inguinal hernia repair under general anaesthesia. They were randomised into illioinguinal/illiohypogastric nerve block group A, and wound infiltration group B. In group A, 20ml of 0.25% ropivacaine was infiltrated in the vicinity of the nerves under ultrasound guidance, while group B received wound infiltration with ropivacaine 10ml 0.25% at the end of surgery. Postoperative static and dynamic pain was assessed at 0, 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours using visual analogue scale. Total usage of opioids in 24 hours postoperatively in both groups, patient satisfaction and complications were recorded. Data was analysed using SPSS 19.
Results: Of the 60 patients, 30(50%) were in each of the 2 groups. There were 29(96.7%) males and 1(3.3%) female in group A with mean age 45.63±17.43 years, and 28(93.3%) males and 2(6.7%) females in group B with mean age 49.33±15.39. The mean pain score at rest was not significantly different between the groups (p>0.05). On movement, the mean pain score between the groups was different only at 6 hours (p=0.02). There were no significant intergroup difference in total usage of opioids in 24 hours postoperatively and patient satisfaction (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Illioinguinal/illiohypogastric nerve block and wound infiltration with ropivacaine were found to be equally effective methods in controlling postoperative pain.
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04462510.
Key Words: Local anaesthesia, Inguinal hernia, Pain management, Patient satisfaction.
The effect of health education on quality of life (QOL) among polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) females at Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Saleem Madiha , Ali Amjad , Hassan Jahan Ara , Farooqui Waqas Ahmed , Haroon Rukhsana , Qasim Rubina
Published: October 2024

Objective: To evaluate the effect of nurses-led health education intervention on quality of life among polycystic ovary syndrome females.
Method: The quasi-experimental study was conducted from May to August 2022 at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology outpatient department of Dow University Hospital, Karachi, and comprised married females aged 18-45 years, who were diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome based on the Rotterdam criteria. Nurses-led health education intervention session was conducted for all the patients.  Data was collected using the self-administered polycystic ovaries syndrome quality of life scale.  Data was analysed using SPSS 26.
Results: Of the 50 females, 26(52%) were aged 26-35 years. There was a significance difference between baseline and post-intervention scores across all domains of quality of life (p<0.05). Also, baseline body mass index of the participants was 30.4±4.711 which went down post-intervention to 29.4±4.800 (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Nurses-led health education intervention improved the quality of life and body mass index of polycystic ovary syndrome patients.
Key Words: Health education, Quality of life, Polycystic ovary syndrome.
Predictive role of frailty and malnutrition in rehospitalisation of cardiac failure patients: A literature review
Authors: Qureshi Farhan Muhammad , Khan Ayyaz Ali
Published: October 2024

Frailty and malnutrition are two conditions that are frequently present in cardiac failure patients that eventually contribute to hospitalisation and recurrent admissions. Malnutrition and frailty are interrelated and a predictive indicator of hospitalisations and subsequent readmissions that worsen the prognosis of cardiac failure patients. Research does not typically measure both nutritional status and frailty together in cardiac failure patients, and they are not even considered when planning and implementing the interventions. The life quality can be improved by early identification of frailty secondary to malnutrition and timely nutritional interventions. Rehospitalisations after discharge due to these conditions significantly increase the risk of death which can be avoided. The current narrative review was planned to highlight frailty and malnutrition as predictive indicators of hospitalisations and subsequent readmissions. Attempts to reduce the social and economic burden owing to these conditions in cardiac failure patients have emerged as a major public health priority worldwide, particularly in the developing countries.
Key Words: Frailty, Heart failure, Malnutrition, Patient readmission, Rehospitalisation.
Using artificial intelligence and machine learning to reduce patient wait times and increase patient satisfaction
Authors: Javed Rahmah , Usman Neha
Published: October 2024

Madam,
Prolonged patient waiting time has long been a significant source of dissatisfaction among patients. Waiting time has been recognized by WHO as one of the key elements of a responsive healthcare system [1]. A study conducted by Bleustein et al. suggested that longer wait times negatively impacted the patient’s confidence in the care provider and the perceived quality of care.[2] Furthermore, in large hospital settings, patients are expected to queue up multiple times before meeting with their physician, which amplifies their stress. We would like to highlight that the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare can help reduce patient and physician stress.
Strategies such as telemedicine and online registration have been acquired in efforts to resolve this issue but these techniques may burden doctors with extra responsibilities. However, introducing an AI-based physician assistance programme, which was able to model itself on the decision-making requirements of the doctor significantly reduced the wait time and the burden on the hospital [3]. Xiaoqing Li et al developed an AI-based model that helped patients automatically order any investigations. Implementation of the model reduces waiting time while also playing a pivotal role in creating alternative methods to improve patient flow. [4] The results of these studies prove that implementation of an AI-based model in daily medicine has helped improve patient experience and minimize hospital burden.
The implementation of AI in place of traditional methods, helps enhance patient satisfaction by not only significantly reducing waiting time but also ensuring that patients receive care appropriate to their condition. Moreover, it helps reduce, the workload on the physician and enables them to focus more on the patient.
Being a new concept in healthcare AI may not be free of error. This might lead to inaccuracies in medication prescription, investigations, imaging, scheduling of appointments and diagnosis in atypical cases. Patient confidentiality is also an extremely important aspect of healthcare and in an attempt to protect the privacy of the patients, AI models may not have free reign over the patients’ data which may prevent them from assisting in medical practices. Furthermore, there are no organizations that customize the AI models according to the needs of the individual hospital or clinic. Moreover, human interaction is a critical aspect of healthcare which would be significantly impacted by the use of AI which could result in patients being unable to express themselves or feeling a sense of apathy. Furthermore, developing countries are not well equipped to implement AI in daily practice, hence it would not be a practical solution for them. [5]
Further research needs to be conducted with regards to the use of AI models in hospitals to understand how they impact patient wait times and satisfaction, alongside their ability to optimize healthcare.
Exploring the nexus between post-traumatic stress disorder and patriarchy: a gender-based variation
Authors: Minahil  , Fizza Batool  , Amna Noor
Published: October 2024

Respected Editor,
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological disorder resulting from witnessing or experiencing trauma, aggravated by repeated exposure to stress and anxiety.
We aim to highlight the underrepresentation of PTSD in a third-world country, its gender-specific variations, and its disproportionate prevalence in women in a male-dominated society.
According to recent studies, gender-based differences in PTSD are reported as 2:1, favouring women. Statistics reveal that men face more traumatic incidents, ranging from violence, bloodshed, and natural disasters.1. Yet women are more susceptible to PTSD because men, encountering such occurrences regularly, perceive it as a norm and find it easier to cope with it than their female counterparts, who happen to have a more significant post-trauma recovery time, which may be a result of fluctuating gonadal hormone levels in young females, as hypothesized by recent studies.2
Furthermore, Pimlott-Kubiak’s theory of trauma and PTSD (2003) suggests that patriarchy exacerbates mental health disorders in women as a vast majority of victims of abuse happen to have their spouses as assailants, categorizing as intimate partner violence.3
Being considered a taboo, women who have experienced assault are silenced due to stigmatization. They become a target of victim shaming and are discouraged from discussing the matter. With no therapy, self-blame ensues, along with a wide spectrum of symptoms of PTSD, like borderline personality disorder, flashbacks, eating disorders, disassociation, and depression, forcing the ‘labelled’ women to sever all positive connections and distance themselves from their loved ones due to fear of being judged.4
Complex Chronic PTSD may result from witnessing or experiencing assault since childhood in an abusive household from an aggressive male, which can trigger mental health issues when dealing with life's challenges as adults.5
Failing to find any discussion on this topic in medical research databases including PubMed and PakMediNet, solidifies our point that lack of awareness and research about the adverse effects of patriarchy on the mental health of women living in a developing country leads to a society where negligence prevails, fueling a vicious cycle of psychological disorders, passed on from generation to generation. Being a disorder that haunts victims for life, PTSD should be tackled with awareness, therapies, and emotional support to ensure a healthy life for all women. More research should be conducted to highlight this issue so that people can talk about such concerns more comfortably and the harm caused by PTSD in Pakistani society can be minimized.
Alteplase vs. Tenecteplase: An In-depth Analysis of Their Relative Effectiveness in Treating Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Azhar Muhammad Junaid , Butt Ayesha Imran
Published: October 2024

Dear Editor,
Stroke stands as the second-leading cause of death worldwide [1, 2]. Each year, over 12 million individuals are impacted by stroke, resulting in approximately 6.5 million fatalities [1]. Stroke globally ranks as the third-leading factor causing a combination of death and disability [2]. Every year, around seven hundred thousand individuals in the United States undergo an Acute Ischemic Stroke (AIS), making up 85% of all stroke cases [2]. New treatments like intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy have cut mortality by 10% compared to older methods, enhancing long-term disability prevention rates following Acute Ischemic Stroke [2].
Alteplase is the sole FDA-approved thrombolytic drug in AIS within the first 4.5 hours. Despite its potential for disability-free recovery, its usage is constrained by a brief time window and adverse effects, notably a 6% risk of symptomatic bleeding. In addition, its fibrinolytic efficacy is limited, achieving vascular reopening in less than half of the patients, and can cause cytotoxicity to the already hypoxic brain with resultant cerebral edema [2]. Tenecteplase (TNK), a modified variant of alteplase, has improved features including greater fibrin selectivity and longer half-life and is given as a single bolus instead of an infusion, thanks to genetic recombinant technology [3].
Numerous studies have supported TNK's efficacy over alteplase in treating AIS. In 2016, Bruce C.V. Campbell and colleagues demonstrated that, according to the analysis of modified Rankin scale scores, tenecteplase exhibited a more favorable overall functional outcome compared to alteplase [4]. A dosage of 0.25 mg/kg of tenecteplase emerges as a promising alternative to replace alteplase as the preferred treatment for patients with AIS occurring within 4.5 hours due to TNK's superior early neurological recovery rates and comparable safety outcomes [3].
Despite gathering evidence from experimental trials indicating TNK's advantages over alteplase for AIS, the use of TNK at a dosage of 0.4 mg/kg appears to pose safety concerns when compared to alteplase [3]. Bruce C.V. Campbell and his fellow researchers revealed in their study that in spite of the beneficial effects of TNK relative to alteplase, there was no significant variation in the speed of recovery to independent function. Notably, they found no discernible distinction in the occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage [4].
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Mind Full Mingle – Mental Health Chat Bot
Authors: P V Kishore Kumar  , Sd. Rafiya  , Y. B. Devayani  , P. Sai Srideep  , B. Y. Saradhi
Published: October 2024

Mental health problems are becoming more widespread and require innovative solutions that provide timely and effective support. This research aims to develop a mental health chatbot using Python and Flask designed to facilitate conversations and provide personalized mental health recommendations. The primary goal is to create an interface where users can express their feelings and receive appropriate guidance, thereby improving mental well-being. The methodology involves implementing natural language processing (NLP) techniques to accurately understand and respond to user input. The chatbot uses a combination of pre-trained language models and customized algorithms to ensure relevant and empathetic responses. Initial results indicate high levels of user engagement and satisfaction, with the chatbot effectively identifying common mental health issues and offering appropriate recommendations. The main contribution of this research lies in the development of an accessible, scalable and effective mental health promotion tool that can be integrated into various platforms to reach a wider audience. This project highlights the potential of AI-driven solutions to address critical societal issues such as mental health and provides a foundation for future advancements in this area.