bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Welfare assessment of a dog shelter using the Shelter Quality Protocol
Authors: Blaga Petrean Anamaria Luciana , Popescu Silvana , Csiplo Andrei-Sebastian
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study was to practically apply this protocol in a private shelter in Cluj county, Romania. The welfare of the sheltered dogs was carried out on three levels: the management of the shelter, measures at pen level and the individual evaluation of the dogs. The main problems identified in the studied shelter were: the lack of indoor enclosures to protect the dogs in cold or hot periods; permanently deficient bedding; the diet rich in carbohydrates and low in fats and proteins; showing fear towards the evaluator; lack of a socialization program; the absence of a coherent adoption strategy; unqualified staff in animal behavior and welfare. Applying the shelter quality protocol is useful because it identifies the shelter's critical control points regarding the welfare of the housed dogs. Their prompt remediation will lead to an adequate animal welfare.
Complete small colon ablation and fixation of the mesocolon to the internal anal sphincter due to prolapse in a young draft horse
Authors: Crecan Cristian Mihăiță , Ciulu-Angelescu Valeria , Lupșan Alexandru-Florin , Bungărdean Denisa , Daradics Zsofia , Tripon Mirela Alexandra , Morar Iancu Adrian , Peștean Cosmin Petru
Published: December 2024

A two-year-old draft stallion was referred for evaluation of a type IV prolapse. A thorough physical examination followed by blood tests was performed to assess the situation. Following the examination, it was concluded that the protruded small colon was devitalised, measured approximately one and a half meters and mesenteric and vascular injury were present. A standing surgery approach was chosen for the present case, in which the affected tissue was excised and the remaining mesentery was ligated to the internal anal sphincter to decrease pressure during straining in the physiological act of defecation. Six months later, after an uneventful recovery, the stallion was in good health and performing its reproductive duties. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a mesenteric fixation to the internal anal sphincter in a horse. The study confirms that this technique is a feasible method that can be used in the complete ablation of the small colon in prolapses.
Analysis of reproductive hormones and morphometric attributes in Thamankaduwa White male cattle
Authors: De Silva Siriwardana Tharinda Dhilshan , Gunawardena Oshan Bimsara , Pagthinathan Mylvaganam , Silva Pradeepa , Pathirana Indunil
Published: December 2024

Despite a few attempts in exploring genetic variability, management systems, and morphometric descriptions, Thamankaduwa White cattle in Sri Lanka has not been subjected to any evaluation of their endocrinological distinctiveness, especially related to reproduction. The main aims of the present study were to: (1) investigate the dynamics of circulating insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) and testosterone in Thamankaduwa bulls during development, and (2) assess the association among INSL3, testosterone and selected morphometric parameters, namely, body weight, height at withers, body length, chest girth of Thamankaduwa White cattle in Sri Lanka. The blood samples were collected from male animals (n = 41) under three age categories; 3-6 months (Group Ⅰ; n = 12), 6-12 months (Group Ⅱ; n = 14) and > 12 months (Group Ⅲ; n = 15), along with their morphometric measurements. Serum INSL3 and extracted testosterone concentrations were measured by using a competitive ELISA. The detection ranges of INSL3 and testosterone assay were 0.078-80 ng/mL and 0.04-40 ng/mL, respectively. Intra- and inter-assay coefficient of variations of INSL3 and testosterone assays were 6.9% (n = 6) and 16.4% (n = 6), and 12.5% (n = 3) and 11.9% (n = 4), respectively. Serum INSL3 and testosterone concentrations ranged between 1.44 - 19.85 ng/mL, and 0.003 ng/mL - 2.81 ng/mL, respectively. The mean serum INSL3 concentrations did not differ between Gr. Ⅰ and Ⅱ (p > 0.05) but were significantly high (p < 0.05) in Gr. Ⅲ. There was a significant association (R2 = 0. 65; p < 0.05) between serum INSL3 and testosterone concentrations in Thmankaduwa White males. No strong associations were observed among hormones and the morphometric parameters tested. In conclusion, the dynamics of INSL3 and testosterone concentrations were compatible and correlated with each other in Thamankaduwa White male cattle.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Direct Methods for Failure of Passive Transfer Diagnosis in Neonatal Calves
Authors: Posastiuc Florin Petrisor , Popescu Dragoș Adrian , Constantin Nicolae Tiberiu , Marian Florina , Andrei Crina Raluca , Codreanu Mario Darius
Published: December 2024

Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT) is a critical concern in neonatal calves, marked by inadequate maternal immunoglobulin transmission due to the syndesmochorial placenta. This leads to heightened disease prevalence, significantly impacting calf health and imposing substantial economic burdens. The prevalence of FPT varies globally, with studies reporting incidence rates ranging from 13% to 41%, one of the explanations for such high variability being the use of different methods and non-adapted thresholds. Efficient diagnostic methodologies are essential to address this challenge, with ongoing exploration of alternative approaches beyond the established gold standard of radial immunodiffusion (RID). This review critically evaluates the available direct methods for FPT assessment gathering the most recent data on both established methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and innovative methodologies such as immunoturbidimetry, split trehalase IgG assay (STIGA), ionization techniques (IT), mass spectrometry (MS), proteomics, and infrared spectroscopy (IS) with attenuated infrared spectroscopy (ATR). Exploring beyond conventional practices is vital for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and addressing the complexities of FPT in calf health management.
Histological evaluation of the common carotid arteries in the goat (Capra Hircus)
Authors: Cret Cosmin , Cipou Mircea , Alexandru Bogdan Cătălin , Irimie Alexandra , Damian Aurel
Published: December 2024

Fragments of the common carotid arteries were collected from 8 goats that had succumbed to accidents. These samples underwent histological processing, involving fixation and embedding in paraffin. Sections, 5 µ in thickness, were then stained using the Trichrome Goldner method for overall assessment and Verhoeff staining for elastic tissue analysis. Upon using Trichrome Goldner staining, it was observed that goat carotid arteries exhibited a typical appearance of muscular arteries, with the thickest layer being the media, primarily composed of muscular components. Verhoeff staining further revealed a well-represented elastic tissue presence within the adventitia, exhibiting a distinct arrangement. Both staining methods indicated that goat common carotid arteries possess tunics comparable in thickness to muscular arteries, with a predominantly muscular media. However, the adventitia was notably distinguished by a significantly higher concentration of elastic tissue compared to typical muscular arteries. Consequently, with these findings, we propose classifying goat common carotid arteries as musculoelastic transitional arteries.
STUDY ON SUBCLINICAL ENDOMETRITIS IN CATTLE OF KATHMANDU VALLEY BY USING WHITE SIDE TEST (WST)
Authors: Panta Praphulla , Prasad Mandal Umesh
Published: December 2024

The current investigation aimed to identify the different levels of nonspecific bacterial infection in the genitalia of repeat-breeding cattle of Kathmandu District using WST. A total of 307 crossbred Holstein Friesian cows were considered for this purpose, out of which 246 repeat-breeding cattle were under treatment and 61 cattle with normal cycle (control group) were artificially inseminated at their first service. Cervical mucus samples were collected 8 to 12 hours after the first signs of behavioral estrus, and subjected to a white side test (WST) and bacteriological examination. From the results of WST, it has been inferred that only 9(14.75%) animals in the control group were positive and the remaining 52(85.24%) were negative. However, the majority of repeat-breeding animals were positive 190 (77.22%)) and only 56 (22.76%) of animals were found negative. Microbiological examination of 190 samples revealed E.coli 54(28.421%), Staphylococcus spp. 39(20.526%), Streptococcus spp. 26(13.684%), Corynebacterium spp. 10(5.263%), Pseudomonas spp. 7(3.684%), Klebsiella spp. 9(4.736%), and mix bacterial growth 44(23.157%). The remaining 56 repeat-breeding cattle were negative with WST, possibly due to the absence of bacteria. Other causes may be viruses, placental retention, ovarian cysts, dystocia, etc. The findings of the present study divulge that WST may be utilized in the field to detect subclinical endometritis caused by bacteria.
Distribution and functional significance of muscle islands in the tunica media of the aorta in the goat (Capra hircus)
Authors: Crisan Melania , Cret Cosmin-Rareș , Constantinescu Radu , Latiu Calin , Cipou Mircea , Martonoș Cristian Olimpiu , Damian Aurel
Published: December 2024

The presence of muscle islands in the tunica media of elastic arteries has been reported in both large and small ruminants. According to some authors, these islands can have a certain influence on the physical-mechanical properties and the pattern of diseases in the aortic wall. The aim of the current study was to highlight the muscle islands and their distribution throughout the aortic segments in the goat and to understand the reason why they are present only in certain species of animals, including the goat. Gross anatomical dissection of the aorta was performed and samples from the following segments were harvested for histological investigations: ascending aorta, aortic arch, descending thoracic aorta and descending abdominal aorta. The muscle islands in the wall of the aortic segments are formed by smooth muscle cells interconnected with connective tissue and are preferentially vascularized by vasa vasorum and innervated by nervi vasorum. The aorta in the goat presents polymorphic muscle islands, arranged in the outer two thirds of the tunica media in the ascending aorta, the outer half at the level of the aortic arch and the descending thoracic aorta, but they are absent in the descending abdominal aorta. Their presence completes the windkessel function of the aortic wall, thus constituting an additional pump necessary to propel the blood towards the abdominal viscera, which in goats, in addition to those present in monogastrics, also contain three large and very active organs, namely the rumen, the reticulum and the omasum.
Keterlibatan Kelompok Perempuan dalam Pemilihan Walikota Makassar Tahun 2020 di masa Covid-19
Authors: Sudirman  , Muhammad Rahmat , Latief Muhammad Iqbal
Published: December 2024

Perempuan adalah warga negara dengan hak politik yang sama dengan laki-laki. Data menunjukkan partisipasi dan keterwakilan perempuan dalam politik sangat rendah, terutama di legislatif, hanya 30 persen. Ini karena diskriminasi. Diskriminasi terhadap perempuan mengarah pada ketidakadilan dan ketidaksetaraan gender. Oleh karena itu, penting untuk diketahui bahwa pemilihan kepala daerah atau pemilihan walikota Makassar sedang berlangsung. Tahun 2020 akan dilaksanakan secara langsung dan demokratis sebagai bentuk kedaulatan rakyat, oleh karena itu partisipasi politik rakyat sangat penting dalam pemaknaan pemimpin daerah, termasuk dalam perjuangan mewujudkan keadilan dan kesetaraan gender di ranah politik dari “aksi sosial”. Kegiatan ini dapat dilihat sebagai upaya peningkatan kuantitas dan kualitas sumber daya manusia (SDM), peningkatan keterwakilan dalam mandat strategis, berpartisipasi penuh dalam proses pengambilan keputusan dan di masa Covid-19 sebagai sinergi yang tinggi. Untuk mengikutsertakan kelompok dengan karakteristik yang berbeda, ada yang menjawab bergabung dengan tim yang hanya membantu menyegarkan, menumbuhkan ekonomi rumah tangga, membangun relasi dengan teman satu kelompoknya dan juga berjejaring atau dengan calon-calon potensial.
TELERADYOLOJİ ALANINDAKİ BİLİMSEL YAYINLARIN BİBLİYOMETRİK VE İÇERİK ANALİZİ İLE İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Türkmen İbrahim , Emikönel Serpil , Tekin Engin
Published: December 2024

Teleradyoloji, tele-tıbbın bir parçası olarak, görüntülerin alındığı yer ile bu görüntüleri değerlendiren radyoloğun farklı bir konumda olması durumunda bile tanısal incelemelerin yapılabilmesini ifade etmektedir. Teleradyoloji, radyoloji uygulamalarının ayrılmaz bir parçası haline gelmiş ve uzaktan görüntüleme ile değerlendirme işlemlerinde önemli bir rol oynamaktadır. Bu çalışma, teleradyoloji alanındaki makalelerin bibliyometrik göstergeler ve içerik olarak analiz edilmesini amaçlamaktadır. Teleradyoloji ile ilgili Web of Science veri tabanında yer alan 960 makale “anahtar kelimeler, yayın türü ve yayın dili” kriterleri kullanılarak araştırmaya dâhil edilmiştir. Araştırma, 1991-2024 yılları arasında 503 dergide, 92 ülkeden 4.734 yazar tarafından İngilizce olarak yayınlanan 960 makaleyi kapsamaktadır. Teleradyoloji alanındaki yayınlar yıllar itibariyle artmakta, en çok makale yayınlayan ülke “ABD”, üniversite “University of Maryland”, dergi “Journal of Digital Imaging”, yazarlar “B. A. M. Bandowe, M. A. Brondani ve K. Dreij”, en çok atıf alan yazar ise “B. A. M. Bandowe” olmuştur. Yayınlanan makalelerde en çok “PACS” olmak üzere 2.851 farklı anahtar kelime kullanılmıştır. Araştırma kapsamına alınan ve en çok atıf alan 33 (≥50) makalede, “teleradyolojinin faydaları”, “teleradyolojinin maliyeti”, “teleradyolojiye ilişkin sorunlar” ve “teleradyolojinin benimsenmesi, kullanımı ve geliştirilmesine yönelik öneriler” olmak üzere dört ana temaya odaklanılmıştır. Araştırmada bibliyometrik ve içerik analiz yapılarak teleradyoloji ile ilgili makalelerin profili, tematik yönelimleri, araştırma öncelikleri incelenmiş ve konu ile ilgili genel bir çerçeve oluşturulmaya çalışılmıştır.
Preliminary Studies of Yeast Flora Isolated from Natural Habitats of Nadia District, West Bengal, India
Authors:   Department of Botany, Rishi Bankim Chandra College, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India, Maiti Chiranjit , Chakraborty Tapas Kumar ,   Department of Botany, Rishi Bankim Chandra College, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India
Published: December 2024

Yeasts are unicellular and eukaryotic fungi. They are easy to find in both terrestrial, aquatic and aerial forms of life. It can be bio-synthesized from different natural sources like leaves, flowers, sweet fruits, food grains, fleshy fungi, exudates from trees, insects, dung and soil. Yeast is a part of the microflora of various food products because it is capable of developing on a substrate containing proteins, fats, sugars, organic acids, etc. Yeasts have various applications in the food industry (winemaking, brewing, baking), biofuel industry, biomass production, bioremediation, and recombinant vaccine production and are also used as model systems for eukaryotic biology. The primary objective of this work was to isolate and characterize yeasts from the natural habitats of the Nadia district of West Bengal, India. A total of 90 yeast colonies were selected, which were associated with different fruits, flowers and exudates of tree samples of the Nadia district. Enumeration of microbial population from these plant samples was noted. Among the many colonies obtained, primarily 15, 11 and 9 yeast colonies were selected randomly from grapes, guavas and date palm plant juice. Fourteen yeast colonies were also selected from Anthocephalus cadamba flowers. Morphological and microscopical characterization of these 49 randomly selected yeast colonies are represented here. These yeast colonies were isolated and sub-cultured for future studies. Further work on physiological, biochemical, and molecular studies is necessary to identify these isolated yeasts at the species level.
Advent of novel SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) in India: Environmental challenges and future perspectives
Authors:   Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Techno India University, Kolkata, India, Dutta Rima , Ghose Chakraborty Shakuntala ,   Repose Clinic and Research Centre Private Limited, Kolkata, India, Roy Anita ,   Repose Clinic and Research Centre Private Limited, Kolkata, India, Dey Gobinda ,   Department of Agriculture Chemistry, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, Samal Alok Chandra , Ghosh Somdeep
Published: December 2024

In India, the first confirmed case of COVID-19 was reported on 30th January, 2020 and till 30th June 2022, there are 43,452,164 confirmed cases and 5, 25, 116 deaths. Several factors have helped and influenced COVID-19 transmission rate and prevalence. The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) suggests the virus has become globally dominant. Further, the elevated mutations in the viral spike protein indicate that the virus might evade antibodies induced by infection or vaccination. During the initial COVID-19 pandemic, the reduced economic activities caused by the prolonged phases of the lockdowns. Consequently, the environmental quality was better at that time with cleaner air and water. The qualitative composition of healthcare waste generated during the pre-COVID-19 situation and COVID-19 pandemic is almost similar. However, the changing dynamics of plastic and bio-medical wastes are of utmost concern. The study emphasizes the necessity of segregation and on-site treatment of bio-medical or healthcare waste. Moreover, dialogues with stakeholders, including local municipal bodies, will ensure effective compliance in managing biomedical waste. The study's findings are expected to provide valuable insights for the policy-makers and other concerned authorities to evaluate the adequacy of the pandemic management landscape.
Efficacy of Different Yogic Practices on Blood Sugar Random Among the Working Men of North Tripura
Authors:   Trained Graduate Teacher (P & HE) Kendriya Vidyalaya, Kailashahar, North Tripura, India, Saini Meenakshi , Das Prasanta Kumar ,   Department of Physical Education, Tripura University, Agartala, Tripura (W), India
Published: December 2024

The article aims to investigate the physiological outcomes, i.e., blood sugar random of 6 weeks of different yoga practices among working men. One Hundred Twenty (120) men working in educational institutions and offices were purposively chosen as subjects for the study and were randomly distributed evenly among three experimental groups and a control group, i.e., (n=30). The individuals' ages ranged from 25 to 45 years old. The experimental groups underwent either Restorative Yoga, Power Yoga, or a combination of both, while the control group received no intervention. Blood Sugar Random was measured before and after the intervention using the blood test by the lab technician. The analysis of covariance, or "F-ratio," was used at the 0.05 level of significance to observe the impact. Statistical analysis revealed significant reductions in all experimental groups' blood sugar random levels as compared to the control group. There is no significant difference between Group A (120.7621) & Group C (121.1698), group A (120.7621) & Group D (121.7731), group C (121.1698) & Group D (121.7731) as the differences in their adjusted means, i.e., 0.40776, 1.01104 & 0.60328 are less than the critical difference (1.388927). Whereas, pairwise difference for all the other groups, namely Group A (120.7621) & group B (117.7616), group B (117.7616) & Group C (121.1698), group B (117.7616) & group D (121.7731) in their adjusted means were higher than the critical difference (1.388927). Thus, it may be concluded that group B is preferred out of four training programs as its adjusted mean (117.7616) is lower than the adjusted mean of the other four training groups. Hence, power yoga training is recommended for reducing/ maintaining the Blood Sugar Random among the working men of North Tripura.
Enhancement of Antimicrobial Activity by Ag-Doping on Chemically Synthesized CdTe Nanoparticles
Authors:   Department of Physics, Government Degree College, Dharmanagar, Tripura, India, Dey Pijush Chandra
Published: December 2024

Antibiotic resistance pathogenic bacteria have been increasing day by day. However, different semiconductor nanoparticles are excellent antimicrobial agents against these pathogenic bacteria. In this work, CdTe and Ag-doped CdTe nanoparticles were prepared using a chemical method to investigate antimicrobial activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus pneumoniae using the Kirby–Bauer diffusion method. TEM analysis of these prepared nanoparticles shows spherical morphology with an average 6 nm and 4 nm diameter, respectively. For antimicrobial study, different concentrations from 100 µg/ml to 500 µg/ml of CdTe and Ag-doped CdTe nanoparticles are placed in agar broth against these pathogenic bacteria. The zone of inhibition was calculated for both nanoparticles after 24 hours. It is observed that both the nanoparticles show antimicrobial activity, but Ag-dopedCdTe nanoparticles show more zone of inhibition due to Ag doping.
Expanding on Knowledge of Student Thinking through Mathematics Teachers’ Engagement in Lesson Study
Authors: Özaltun Çelik Aytuğ , Bukova Guzel Esra
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to expand on knowledge of student thinking based on the mathematics teachers’ practices in a lesson study process designed for improving teachers’ knowledge of student thinking. The participants of this qualitative case study were three secondary mathematics teachers. The data were gathered from twenty-two hours lessons observations and field notes. By the data analysis, we got nine main components by constant comparison. The main components of knowledge of student thinking were (a) building on students’ mathematical ideas, (b) promoting students’ thinking of mathematics, (c) triggering and considering divergent thoughts, (d) engaging students in mathematical learning, (e) evaluating students’ understanding, (f) motivating students’ learning, (g) considering students’ misconceptions and errors, (h) considering students’ difficulties, and (i) estimating students’ possible ideas and approaches. This study supported the mathematics teachers in developing professional knowledge and also provided to elaborate the content of teachers’ knowledge of student thinking.
Cycle of Dreams
Authors: Weiskott Eric
Published: December 2024

An experimental hybrid work, Cycle of Dreams pairs translation and original poetry. The translations, or adaptations, are of William Langland’s strange and wild fourteenth-century dream vision, Piers Plowman, a politically radical English and Latin poem written in the wake of plague and divided into a prologue and twenty passūs or steps. Eric Weiskott transposes the action from London and Worcestershire to New England and Long Island. The translations refashion and modernize Piers Plowman by disarticulating its continuous shape and rearticulating it as a collection of lyrics. The translation appears on the left and original poetry on the right in each page opening, so that the fourteenth and twenty-first centuries speak to one another as in a dream.

Like Piers Plowman itself in manuscript culture, Cycle of Dreams attracts paratexts. Images illustrate the absent presence of Langland’s authorship. A series of glosses or marginal notes grounds the poems in critical theory, etymologies, lyric reminiscences, and statistics reflecting the desperation of our economic moment. An “oneirography” or dreamed bibliography names some of the scholarship that supports study of Piers Plowman today and some other sources for Langlandian fever dreams.

Langland can address us today, not in the voice of a bygone author whose “context” must be arduously rearticulated in the laboratories of scholarly endeavor, but one whose utopian vision is in its broad outlines no less urgent in 2024 than it was in 1381, when English rebels used Langland’s title figure as a rallying cry for insurrection. Cycle of Dreams unearths “buried dreams / of a future adequate to the present tense.”
An evaluation of Glenoid Fossa Location in various Facial Divergence Types
Authors: Mengi Arvind , Mengi Nancy , Singh Ravnitya , Singh Abhishek
Published: December 2024

Background: To study the variation in the anatomical position of glenoid fossa in patients with long face and short face. The study was conducted to assess the location of Glenoid Fossa in various facial divergence types. Material & Methods: Glenoid fossa location is ascertained in cephalometric radiographs of subjects with different facial types. Glenoid fossa location in cranial base was assessed using four linear and two angular variables on cephalometric data of 184 subjects. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, version 25, predictive analytics software. Statistical analysis used Bonferroni Correction for multiple comparisons and Kruskall Wallis test in place of oneway ANOVA if the data was not normally distributed. Results: Hyperdivergent facial types have glenoid fossa located significantly superiorly in the cranial base as compared to hypodivergent facial types (p = 0.0163). Conclusions:The glenoid fossa location amongst hypodivergent and hyperdivergent facial types varies significantly. The glenoid fossa is located superiorly in cranial base in hyperdivergent facial types as compared to hypodivergent facial types.
Assessment of Knowledge and Preventative Practices about COVID-19 Among OPD Patients
Authors: Khanam Tahmina Israt
Published: December 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted public health globally. Understanding the knowledge and preventative practices among patients is crucial for controlling the spread of the virus. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and preventative practices regarding COVID-19 among outpatient department (OPD) patients at Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Dhaka Cantonment. Material & Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 71 participants from the OPD of CMH, Dhaka. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The study assessed demographic characteristics, comorbidities, knowledge, and preventative practices. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. Results: The majority of participants were aged 28-37 years (45.07%), with a mean age of 35.18 years. Females constituted 59.15% of the sample. Most participants were married (87.32%), and the predominant religion was Islam (91.55%). Educational levels varied, with 42.25% having completed SSC. Occupationally, 49.30% were housewives. Urban residents made up 76.06% of the sample. Common comorbidities included hypertension (15.49%) and diabetes mellitus (15.49%). High compliance was noted for wearing face masks (97.2%) and using hand sanitizer (91.5%). However, only 46.5% practiced social distancing, and 23.9% maintained good respiratory hygiene. Knowledge gaps were identified, with only 59.2% knowing common COVID-19 symptoms. Conclusions: The study highlights significant gaps in knowledge and adherence to preventative practices among OPD patients at CMH, Dhaka. Targeted educational interventions are needed to improve compliance with critical preventative measures. Addressing these gaps is essential for enhancing public health strategies and controlling the spread of COVID-19.
Observation of Early Outcome and Complications among Gastric Cancer Surgery Patients
Authors: Shoaib Tanvir Hasan , Biswas Girin Chandra , Parveen Lt Col Shahajadi Shanjida , Prova Mahnaz Tabassum , Haque Md Ekramul , Fatema Kaselia , Rahman Sonia , Hossen Md. Nahid
Published: December 2024

Background Gastric cancer remains a significant public health challenge in Bangladesh, with a high prevalence of habitual risk factors and late-stage diagnoses. This study aims to evaluate the early outcomes and postoperative complications among gastric cancer surgery patients in a resource-limited setting. Material & Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional observational study was conducted from July 2017 to March 2019 at the Department of Surgical Oncology, National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital, Dhaka. Forty patients with biopsy-proven operable gastric carcinoma were selected using purposive non-randomized sampling. Data were collected through clinical evaluations, structured interviews, and case record forms, focusing on demographic characteristics, habitual risk factors, tumor-related features, types of surgery, duration of surgery, hospital stay, and postoperative complications. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS-22. Results: The mean age of participants was 65.16 ± 10.28 years, with a male predominance (70%). Smoking (70%) and beetle leaf consumption (90%) were prevalent habitual risk factors. Distal stomach cancer was more common (65%), with a mean tumor size of 5.00 ± 2.00 cm. Lower radical gastrectomy was performed in 65% of cases. Most surgeries (60%) were completed within 1 to 1.5 hours. Hospital stay durations varied, with 45% staying 11-15 days. Postoperative complications were noted in 52.50% of patients, including wound infections (20%) and urinary tract infections (15%). Conclusions: This study highlights the critical need for improved early detection, risk factor mitigation, and postoperative care in gastric cancer management within Bangladesh. These findings provide a foundation for future research and clinical strategies aimed at enhancing patient outcomes in similar resource-limited settings.
Investigating Vitamin D-3 Deficiency among Pregnant Women at a Local Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Chowdhury Shamima Haque , Nargis Waheeda , Kalam Farhana
Published: December 2024

Background: Vitamin D deficiency is a pervasive issue globally, particularly among pregnant women, and is linked to various adverse health outcomes. This study investigates the prevalence and characteristics of Vitamin D-3 deficiency among pregnant women in a tertiary care setting in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and explores the association with demographic and clinical factors. Material & Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Uttara Adhunik Medical College and Hospital, Dhaka, over 12 months from January to December 2020. The study included 60 pregnant women suspected of Vitamin D deficiency based on clinical symptoms. Data on age, gravidity, parity, comorbidities, and serum Vitamin D levels were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate correlation analysis. Results: The majority of participants were aged between 26 and 35 years (45.00%), with a high prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency (86.67%). The common comorbidities observed were hypothyroidism (20.00%), preeclampsia (15.00%), and diabetes (13.33%). Bivariate correlation analysis showed no significant associations between Vitamin D levels and demographic factors such as age, parity, and gravidity. Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent among pregnant women at the studied hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and is associated with significant comorbidities. These findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions to address Vitamin D deficiency in this population, including supplementation and dietary education, to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Prevention and Management of Endometriosis in Adolescent Girls
Authors: Begum Mst Ferdewsi
Published: December 2024

Background: Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to symptoms such as pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. This study aims to investigate the prevention and management strategies for endometriosis in adolescent girls, focusing on both medical and surgical interventions, as well as the effectiveness of preventive measures. Material & Methods: This study is designed as a prospective cohort study at the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology in Mymensingh Medical College, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July 2020 to July 2022. The study enrolled 88 adolescent girls aged 12-18 years who have been diagnosed with endometriosis through laparoscopy or imaging. Data were analyzed by SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 22.0. Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics for baseline characteristics, comparative analysis between intervention groups using t-tests and chi-square tests, and longitudinal analysis using mixed-effects models, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: In this study, progestins demonstrated a 65% response rate but were associated with weight gain. GnRH agonists showed an 80% response rate with side effects such as hot flashes, while aromatase inhibitors had a 70% response rate and were linked to joint pain. Surgical outcomes indicated that laparoscopy provided 90% pain relief with a 10% complication rate and 15% recurrence, whereas laparotomy resulted in 85% pain relief, 15% complications, and 20% recurrence. Quality of life measures showed significant improvements, with pain scores decreasing from 8.5 to 3.2, activity limitations reducing from 70% to 30%, and psychological well-being increasing from 50% to 80% after treatment. Conclusions: Effective prevention and management of endometriosis in adolescent girls involve early detection, appropriate medical treatments, and preventive measures. Key strategies include using combined oral contraceptives (COCs) and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms, supported by education programs to improve awareness. Progestins, GnRH agonists, and aromatase inhibitors are effective treatments, with laparoscopy being a successful surgical option.
Linseed Oil in preventing Peri-ileostomy Skin Excoriation in Children
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Mozammel Haque , Islam Mohammed Kabirul , Islam Md. Faridul
Published: December 2024

Background: Peri-ileostomy skin excoriation is an inevitable complication following Ileostomy specially in children. To prevent such excoriation Zinc oxide paste and several other conventional modalities has been used with some demerits. So in search of an alternative, Linseed oil has been proposed to prevent peri-ileostomy skin excoriation as it contains an omega-3 α Linolenic acid having anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, skin soothing, healing and revitalizing properties. The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of Linseed oil and Zinc oxide paste in preventing peri-ileostomy skin excoriation. Material & Methods: This was a prospective comparative interventional study conducted in 76 children (ranging from 1 day to 18 years) admitted at Dhaka Shishu (Children) Hospital requiring Ileostomy care from March 2017 to September 2019. Out of 76 children, 38 were purposively selected and randomly allocated in each of Group A (Linseed oil Group) and Group B (Zinc oxide Group). Patients were followed up for 1 month after operation. During this period, 5 children were lost from follow-up in Group A and 4 in Group B. So we studied with 67 patients among which 33 enrolled in Group A and 34 in Group B. SPSS version 25 statistical software was used to analyze. Results: Age, sex, weight, primary diagnoses and types of operation showed no significant statistical differences between two groups. Area of excoriation was absent in 22 (66.7%) patients in Group A and 8 (23.5%) patients in Group B. No patient in Group A had > 3 cm excoriation while in Group B 8 (23.5%) patients had > 3 cm excoriation which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). 1st degree excoriation was significantly more in group B 24 (70.6%) than Group A 10 (30.3%) (p -value = 0.001). Conclusions: Linseed oil is more effective than Zinc oxide in preventing peri-ileostomy skin excoriation. It is locally available, easy to use and potential to minimize the peri-ileostomy skin excoriation.
Employment Services South Africa usage: Perspectives from jobseekers and employees
Authors:   School of Public Management and Administration, University of Pretoria, Gumede Akhonamaqwabe , Lubinga Stellah ,   School of Public Management and Administration, University of Pretoria, Masiya Tyanai ,   School of Public Management and Administration, University of Pretoria, Tshiyoyo Michel ,   School of Public Management and Administration, University of Pretoria
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the perspectives of the Department of Employment and Labour employees and jobseekers on the usage of the Employment Services South Africa (ESSA) system. The system's primary aim is to place unemployed South Africans in available job opportunities by facilitating information sharing between employers and jobseekers based on the jobseekers’ qualifications and experience. Data was collected from 34 respondents, including employees of the Department of Employment and Labour and jobseekers, through qualitative interviews. The findings revealed that many unemployed jobseekers did not effectively use the ESSA system. While the ESSA system is valued by the Department of Employment and Labour employees, its adoption, perceived usefulness, accuracy, and effectiveness among jobseekers are lacking. The system still struggles with low visibility, a lack of awareness, and trust among jobseekers, who often look elsewhere for effective recruitment.
Merit-based recruitment in the South African Public Service: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Nkgapele Simon Matome , Mofokeng Sifiso
Published: December 2024

Section 195 (i) of South Africa’s Constitution mandates that public administration must reflect the nation's diversity, with recruitment and personnel management practices based on competence, fairness, and impartiality, while addressing historical inequalities to ensure broad representation. This creates a dual obligation for public administration: to foster inclusivity and equity while ensuring merit-based recruitment. Merit-based recruitment is crucial for meeting the public service's human resource needs and achieving employment equity by making opportunities accessible to all societal groups. While the practical application of merit-based recruitment presents opportunities, it still encounters considerable obstacles, such as political interference, and fragile institutional structures. This paper explored both the challenges and opportunities of merit-based recruitment in the South African public service through an analysis of government reports, academic literature, and policy reviews. The findings reveal that while the concept of merit-based recruitment is embedded in policy, its execution is hampered by political interference, nepotism, a lack of institutional capacity, skills shortages, and tensions between affirmative action and meritocracy. The paper recommends strengthening monitoring and evaluation measures employed by the Public Service Commission (PSC) to effectively promote and oversee the implementation of merit-based recruitment processes in the public service.
Navigating the crossroads: Challenges and opportunities for governance reform in Sudan
Authors:   Pan African University, Institute of Governance, Humanities and Social Sciences, Governance and Regional Integration, Slom Fawzi Ahmed Abdullah
Published: December 2024

There is a critical need for comprehensive governance reform in Sudan, a nation navigating the turbulent shift from decades of authoritarian rule to a fragile post-conflict democracy. Through an in-depth analysis, the study examines Sudan's enduring governance challenges—corruption, ethnic tensions, and economic mismanagement—while highlighting the unique opportunities for structural reforms, such as constitutional reconfiguration, decentralization, anti-corruption initiatives, and strengthened regional collaboration. Drawing on secondary data from academic research, policy reports, and analyses by international organizations, the study underscores the transformative potential of Sudan’s key stakeholders, including government institutions, civil society, international allies, and regional neighbors. Findings reveal that their collective involvement is vital to establishing a foundation for long-term peace and stability. This article concludes with actionable recommendations aimed at fostering a governance system that is transparent, inclusive, and accountable—an aspiration that hinges on the sustained engagement and collaboration of these pivotal actors in Sudan's journey toward a democratic future.
Online gaming engagements, mental well-being, and work performance among young professionals: Basis for psychosocial intervention program development
Authors:   Laguna State Polytechnic University, Moraleja Mark Paul , Lopez Elna ,   Lyceum of the Philippines University
Published: December 2024

Online gaming became part of people’s lives since the introduction of the computer and internet even before studies which explore its advantages and disadvantages were taken into consideration. This study investigated the online gaming engagements, mental well-being and work performance of one hundred three (103) young professionals of the 3rd district of Laguna in the Philippines. They were selected through purposive sampling. The study used sequential explanatory mixed method which combines quantitative and qualitative method. Findings revealed that respondents have average gaming engagements, above average mental well-being and high work performance. The themes created were gaming attitude for online gaming engagements, healthy disposition for mental health and work attitude for work performance. It was also revealed that online gaming engagement and mental health is significantly related with work performance. The study proposed a psycho-social intervention program for young professional with high gaming engagements.
Assessment of the institution’s compliance with the standards of quality education: Inputs to development plan
Authors:   Batangas College of Arts and Sciences, Inc., Valencia Alvin
Published: December 2024

Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have become the trusted producers of countless generations of professionals who undeniably contribute to the attainment of the nation’s development goals. Relatively, they are expected to become so responsive to the needs and demands of society. This study aimed to assess the compliance of the institution with the standards of quality education and used the results as a basis for the creation of a development plan. The study utilized a descriptive-normative design to compare the performance of the institution within the areas of quality education enumerated by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA). In addition, one hundred forty (140) respondents, chosen through fishbowl sampling, were asked to complete the adapted survey questionnaire composed of two sections – demographic characteristics of the respondents and the extent of the institution’s compliance with the standards of quality education. Furthermore, the study revealed that most respondents perceived the institution’s compliance with the quality education standards to a Very Great Extent (VGE). Moreover, the study also stressed that perception of the extent of the institution’s adherence to the standards varies according to their academic program and sex. Meanwhile, based on the results, some of the indicators were perceived to be significantly affected by the respondents’ age, year level, and enrolment status. Given these findings, undergoing accreditation must be given attention to ensure the delivery of quality teaching-learning processes deserved by all learners.
Language acquisition: The lived experiences of students in acquiring second language
Authors:   Northwestern Visayan Colleges, Valeña Ronnie , Motus Rhett ,   Kalibo Integrated Special Education Center
Published: December 2024

This phenomenological study was conducted to describe the context of acquisition of second language among the students. The seven participants were purposely selected to answer the interview questions. In terms of their lived experiences in the acquisition of second language, the majority of the participants experienced fun, tough, and challenging yet rewarding encounters. In terms of the challenges encountered; ‘English is a crazy language’ is one of the top problems shared by the participants. English learners had a tough time in identifying the rules since there are some exemptions to it. In terms of their coping mechanisms, generally, there were numerous coping mechanisms developed in order to address the challenges they encountered. This only substantiated that the participants aimed to vanquish the intimidating effects of these challenges deep into every essential aspect of their lives. This also confirmed that the participants’ perspective towards the problems which they encountered was openly noted and not afraid of addressing it with solutions they developed by themselves or with the assistance of other professionals.
GELİŞMİŞ VE GELİŞMEKTE OLAN EKONOMİLERİN ÜLKE RİSKİNİN BELİRLEYENLERİ
Authors: Atıcı Ustalar Sinem
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışmada ülke betasının zamana göre değiştiği ortaya konularak, gelişmiş ve gelişmekte olan ekonomilerin ülke risklerinin belirleyenleri analiz edilmektedir. Bu amaçla ilk olarak Heteroskedastik Piyasa Modeli yardımıyla gelişmiş ve gelişmekte olan ekonomilerin 2004-2023 yılları arasındaki beta değerleri hesaplanmıştır. Model hesaplamaları beta değerlerinin zamana ve ülkelere göre değiştiğini kanıtlamaktadır. İkinci olarak ülke betasının ticari açıklık, finansal açıklık, sanayi üretim endeksi, reel efektif döviz kuru ve enflasyon oranı ile ilişkisi panel Sabit Etkiler EKK tahmincisi kullanılarak araştırılmaktadır. Tahmin sonuçları seçilen değişkenlerin ülke betası üzerindeki etkisinin anlamlı olduğunu göstermektedir. Gelişmiş ekonomilerin pay senedi piyasalarının betası finansal açıklık ve sanayi üretim endeksindeki değişimlere duyarlı iken, gelişmekte olan ülkelerin pay senedi piyasasının betası ise ticari açıklık, reel efektif döviz kuru ve enflasyon oranındaki değişimlere duyarlıdır.
Yapay Sinir Ağları Tabanlı Yumurta Ağırlık ve Sınıflandırma Tahmini
Authors: Taşdemir Muhammed Furkan , Akçay Mehmet Şamil , Koyuncu İsmail
Published: December 2024

Yumurta, besleyici özelliği ve ekonomik açıdan düşük maliyete sahip olması nedeni ile dünyada yaygın bir şekilde tüketilmektedir. Bununla birlikte yumurta ağırlığının hassas bir şekilde ölçülmesi ve buna göre ağırlık sınıfının doğru olarak belirlenmesi önemli bir aşamadır. Sunulan bu çalışmada, yumurta görüntüleri kullanılarak YSA tabanlı ağırlık tahmini yapılmış ve bu sonuçlara göre yumurta sınıflandırma işlemi gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışmada öncelikle S, M, L ve XL sınıflarında olmak üzere 4 farklı paketlenmiş 120 adet yumurtanın ağırlıkları hassas terazi ile tartılmıştır. Ardından ikinci aşamada, ilgili yumurtalara ait 120 adet yumurta veri seti, saatin tersi yönünde 30⁰, 100⁰ ve 200⁰ döndürülerek toplam 480 adet yumurta görüntüsüne sahip daha geniş bir veri seti oluşturulmuştur. YSA tabanlı tahmin işleminin gerçekleştirilebilmesi amacı ile ilgili veri setine ait 336 yumurta görüntüsü eğitim, 72 adet yumurta görüntüsü doğrulama ve 72 adet yumurta görüntüsü test için üç bölüme ayrılmıştır. Çalışmadan elde edilen sonuçlara göre, YSA-tabanlı tahmin sistemi YSA-tabanlı ağırlık tahmin sistemine ait eğitim sonucu %98.2, doğrulama (validation) sonucu %98.1 ve test işleminden %97.9 oranında başarı sağlanmıştır. Sunulan bu çalışma ile, tasarımı yapılan ileri beslemeli YSA yapısının yumurta ağırlığına göre sınıflandırma uygulamalarında başarılı bir şekilde kullanılabileceği gösterilmiştir.