bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Evaluation of Cost-Effective Ultrasonic Sensors for Aggregate Temperature Measurement
Authors:   , Elyounsi Ali Amer Milad
Published: December 2024

The development and verification of Ultrasonic Oscillating Temperature Sensors (UOTS) for measuring aggregate air temperature in residential settings is the primary focus of this thesis. Conventional temperature sensors, while commonly used, have limitations, including time lag and localised measurement. In contrast, UOTS provides a more comprehensive solution by offering rapid, responsive temperature measurements across the entire ultrasonic pathway using cost-effective piezo transducers. The research involved designing and experimenting with an air based UOTS system, specifically built using standard 20x20 aluminum profiles and ultrasonic transducers. This system was driven by an integrated circuit, equipped with dual operational amplifiers, and connected to conventional sensors (AHT20 and BMP280) via an I2C interface to serve as a reference temperature logger. Experimental setups included using A cardboard thermal testing enclosure and a domestic hairdryer to isolate the assembly from room air movements and rapidly heat the air, allowing for detailed monitoring of temperature changes. Key findings revealed that the UOTS responded much faster to abrupt temperature changes than conventional sensors. The UOTS demonstrated reliability over prolonged periods and varying distances (0.15 to 0.95 meters), showing sensitivity in the order of ~50 Hz/K. However, the research also concluded that while UOTS is effective for detecting rapid temperature changes, conventional sensors remain necessary for continuous monitoring, especially in environments with varying air movements. Overall, this research highlights the potential of UOTS in residential temperature control applications, offering a low-cost, efficient alternative to traditional sensor networks. The study opens the door for further advancements in temperature measurement technology, particularly in the context of smart homes and energy-efficient climate control systems
Sur ma mère ou l’enjeu mnésique et narratif benjellounien entre confabulation, fiction, oublis et remémorations factuelles
Authors: Taiebine Mohamed
Published: December 2024

La littérature constitue une entreprise autonome qui représente la maladie d’une façon esthétique et fictionnelle au-delà de la sémiologie médicale et clinique. Sur ma mère (2008) de Tahar Ben Jelloun est une oeuvre hybride, à la croisée des genres ; à la fois roman, essai et témoignage par rapport à une condition humaine et pathologique qui déracine l’être et l’identité de sa filiation avec le temps, la mémoire, l’espace et la conscience. Comment Ben Jelloun a-t-il réussi à brosser le tableau de la maladie d’Alzheimer aussi bien sur le plan esthétique que clinique ? Par quelles techniques narratives et avec quel bagage terminologique ? Une approche double, littéraire et cognitive, s’avère cruciale pour répondre à ces questions. Pour Ben Jelloun, son oeuvre est une fiction qui opère une forme de catharsis : l’évocation de souvenirs personnels, hétéro-personnels, les événements constitutifs de la vie de Lalla Fatma et sa dissolution par la maladie neurodégénérative. Fidèle à lui-même et à la bénédiction de sa mère, Ben Jelloun opère une réflexion sur la mère âgée, orientale, alitée, en perte d’autonomie, ensuite grabataire, mutique et agonisante.
Les controverses jurisprudentielles administratives et la persistance de l’arrêt Domtar : quelle suite ?
Authors: Croteau-Thomassin Marc-Alexandre
Published: December 2024

Trente ans après l’arrêt Domtar, les principes qui y ont été établis par la Cour suprême du Canada en matière de controverses jurisprudentielles au sein de l’Administration ont survécu aux diverses réformes du contrôle judiciaire, dont celle opérée par l’arrêt Vavilov. En utilisant l’exemple de décisions rendues à la suite de de○mandes d’accès à l’information, l’auteur suggère que le cadre normatif applicable à ces controverses présente certaines lacunes. Néanmoins, plutôt que de revenir sur les enseignements de l’arrêt Domtar, il propose de poursuivre sur la voie tracée par cet arrêt, à savoir la reconnaissance de l’autonomie décisionnelle de l’Administration.
Filosofía experimental. Variedades, desarrollos y cuestiones abiertas
Authors: Gaitán Torres Antonio
Published: December 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es presentar una panorámica del desarrollo y de los enfoques más influyentes dentro de la filosofía experimental. En la primera sección se introduce el compromiso central de la filosofía experimental, situando ese compromiso dentro de dos grandes narrativas sobre su origen como disciplina. En la segunda sección se exploran los dos programas que han sido históricamente más influyentes dentro de la filosofía experimental. En esta sección se describe cómo esos dos programas han dejado paso a un enfoque metodológico más híbrido, que enmarca gran parte de lo que actualmente se entiende como filosofía experimental. La filosofía experimental ha estado siempre acompañada de polémica, tanto desde la filosofía como desde aquellas disciplinas no filosóficas que han nutrido su metodología. En la sección tercera se pasa revista a las objeciones más influyentes contra la filosofía experimental. La sección cuarta se ocupa de algunos desarrollos recientes de la filosofía experimental, remarcando la pluralidad de temas y enfoques metodológicos que caracteriza a la filosofía experimental en la actualidad. La última sección sintetiza las aportaciones más importantes de esta panorámica.
Recent research progress of ultracold-atom quantum simulation of Fermi-Hubbard model
Authors: HE Yuanyao , YANG Bing ,   Institute of Modern Physics, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China,   Department of Physics, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
Published: December 2024

Fermi-Hubbard model is a fundamental lattice model describing correlated electron systems in condensed matter physics and is closely related to high-temperature superconductivity. In recent years, cold-atom quantum simulations have become an important paradigm for studying the Fermi-Hubbard model, and advances in quantum many-body computations have contributed to our understanding of its fundamental properties. Notably, a recent ultracold-atom experiment achieving the well-known antiferromagnetic (AFM) phase transition in the three-dimensional (3D) Hubbard model represents a key step in quantum simulation, laying a foundation for exploring the link between the quantum magnetism and high-temperature superconductivity. In this paper, the experimental and theoretical research progress of Fermi-Hubbard model in 3D systems is reviewed, the development history and present status in this field are discussed, and the future development direction is also prospected.

The paper is organized as follows. To begin with, recent progress of observing AFM phase transitions in the 3D Hubbard model is reviewed, focusing on an ultracold-atom experiment conducted by the research group at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC). Next, a theoretical introduction to the fundamental properties of the 3D Hubbard model is provided, in which prior theoretical studies is summarized, the current research status is outlined, and some unresolved or under-explored problems are discussed. In Section 3, the quantum simulation of the Hubbard model using ultracold atoms in optical lattices is discussed, and the basic principle, historical developments and key challenges are outlined. The USTC team overcame these challenges through innovative techniques such as atom cooling, large-scale uniform box traps, and precise measurements of the AFM structure factor. Their work successfully confirms the AFM phase transition via the critical scaling analysis. Finally, the significance of this achievement is emphasized, and the future research prospects of the 3D Hubbard model are discussed, including experimental studies on the doped regions and related theoretical benchmarks.
How vision shapes the paths we choose
Authors: Kuo Arthur D
Published: December 2024

A mathematical model can predict the path walkers take through a rugged landscape, including the tendency of people to avoid paths that are too steep, even if it means going farther.
Analysis of foothold selection during locomotion using terrain reconstruction
Authors: Muller Karl S , Bonnen Kathryn , Shields Stephanie M , Panfili Daniel P , Matthis Jonathan , Hayhoe Mary M
Published: December 2024

Relatively little is known about the way vision is used to guide locomotion in the natural world. What visual features are used to choose paths in natural complex terrain? To answer this question, we measured eye and body movements while participants walked in natural outdoor environments. We incorporated measurements of the three-dimensional (3D) terrain structure into our analyses and reconstructed the terrain along the walker’s path, applying photogrammetry techniques to the eye tracker’s scene camera videos. Combining these reconstructions with the walker’s body movements, we demonstrate that walkers take terrain structure into account when selecting paths through an environment. We find that they change direction to avoid taking steeper steps that involve large height changes, instead of choosing more circuitous, relatively flat paths. Our data suggest walkers plan the location of individual footholds and plan ahead to select flatter paths. These results provide evidence that locomotor behavior in natural environments is controlled by decision mechanisms that account for multiple factors, including sensory and motor information, costs, and path planning.
Spectrum analysis of inborn errors of metabolism for expanded newborn screening in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zhu Jingying , Han Li , Yang Pingjingwen , Feng Ziyi , Xue Shuyuan
Published: December 2024

To determine the disease spectrum and genetic characteristics of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) in Xinjiang province in the northwest of China, 41,690 newborn babies were screening by tandem mass spectrometry from November 2018 to December 2021. Of these, 57 newborn babies were referred for genetic analysis by next-generation sequencing, which was validated by Sanger sequencing. A total of 36 newborn babies and one relative were diagnosed with IEM, and the overall positive predictive value was 29.03%. The overall incidence of IEM in Xinjiang was 1:1,158 (36/41,690). The incidence of amino acidemias, organic acidemias, and fatty acid oxidation disorder were 1:1,668 (25/41,690), 1:4,632 (9/41,690), and 1:20,845 (2/41,690), respectively. Phenylketonuria and methylmalonic acidemia were the two most common inborn errors of metabolism (IEM), accounting for 83% (30/36) of all confirmed cases. Some hotspot mutations were observed for several IEMs, including PAH gene c.158G > A (p.Arg53His) and c.688G > A (p.Val230Ile) for hyperphenylalaninemia. Four mutation types of the MMACHC gene (e.g., c.609G > A (p.Trp203Ter), c.567dupT (p.Ile190fs)) and six mutation types of the MMUT gene (e.g., c.729_730insT (p.Asp244fs)) were found for methylmalonic acidemia. We also found 11 mutations in six genes: PCCB, IVD, GCDH, MCCC1, SLC22A5, and ACADS in this region. This study combined tandem mass spectrometry and next-generation sequencing technology for the screening and diagnosis of IEM. The study provides effective clinical guidance, and the data provide a basis for expanding newborn screening, genetic screening, and IEM gene consultation in Xinjiang, China.
The role of CD47 in immune escape of colon cancer and its correlation with heterogeneity of tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Tian Qiu-Si , Zhang ChunMei , Bao Zhi-Jun , Pei ZhiGang
Published: December 2024

Background

Cluster of differentiation 47 (CD47), a transmembrane protein, plays a critical role in regulating cellular functions and maintaining immune homeostasis. Its expression has been shown to influence cancer prognosis. In this study, we investigated the role of CD47 in tumor progression in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) and evaluated its potential as a target for immunotherapy.

Materials and Methods

We analyzed surgical samples from 96 COAD patients. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on 90 samples, while the remaining 6 were subjected to multiplex immunofluorescence. To explore the association between CD47 expression and clinicopathological characteristics, we integrated transcriptome data from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the Gene Expression Omnibus using R software. The Tumor Immune Estimation Resource and Kaplan-Meier plotter were utilized to assess the relationship between CD47 expression, patient prognosis, and immune infiltration. Furthermore, the single-cell Tumor Immune System Interaction Database was used to examine the correlation between CD47 expression and the tumor microenvironment (TME). All included patients gave oral and written informed consent. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of 3201 Hospital (full name: Medical Ethics Committee of 3201 Hospital).

Results

CD47 was found to be overexpressed in various tumors, including COAD. Higher CD47 expression was significantly associated with more advanced tumor stages, including TNM staging, T staging, and N staging (P < 0.05). A robust correlation was observed between CD47 expression and immune cell infiltration in COAD. Patients with elevated CD47 expression tended to have longer disease-free intervals, although this benefit was diminished in cases with high infiltration of M1 macrophages. The immunosuppressive function of CD47 primarily acted through the CD47/SIRPα pathway. Additionally, distinct cellular compositions and distributions were identified between primary and metastatic COAD, underscoring the heterogeneity of the TME. CD47 also influenced the TME by modulating cytokine and cytokine receptor interactions.

Conclusion

CD47 represents a promising prognostic biomarker and a potential target for immunotherapy in COAD. These findings provide new insights into therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating the TME and improving patient outcomes.
Mixed Heritage in the Family: Racial Identity, Spousal Choice, and Child-Rearing
Authors: Liebler Carolyn , Song Miri
Published: December 2024

In this book, Carolyn Liebler and Miri Song critically considers what it means to be a person of mixed racial heritage in the United States today. How do a mixed-heritage person’s identity choices link to their choice of spouse and the racial identification of their children? Do these answers vary across different mixed-heritage groups? Is there meaningful variation by location in the United States? Leveraging both census data and in-depth interviews, the authors illustrate national social patterns and then explore them using the interview responses. Throughout, they weave together results from these very different sources to triangulate, deepen, and broaden understanding of the life decisions and family choices of people of mixed racial heritage.
Avaliação do coeficiente de performance e eficiência de segunda lei em bancada de refrigeração utilizando compressor alternativo hermético e fluído refrigerante R-134a
Authors: Santos Joathan Guimarães dos , Santorum André Alcides , Xavier Isaias Paulo , Guerra Thiago
Published: December 2024

Considerando a relevância da eficiência energética na refrigeração, este estudo deseja avaliar o coeficiente de performance (COP) e a eficiência de segunda lei em uma bancada de refrigeração que utiliza um compressor hermético alternativo e fluido refrigerante R-134a. Para tanto, procede-se à necessidade de realizar medições de temperatura e pressão em pontos críticos do ciclo de refrigeração e cálculos dos COP real e teórico, utilizando conceitos termodinâmicos para os quatro modelos de capilares com diâmetro de 0,04” e 3,0 metros de comprimento, diâmetro 0,04” e 1,5 metros, diâmetro de 0,050” e 3,0 metros, diâmetro de 0,036” e 3,0 metros.. Desse modo, observa-se que o tubo capilar com diâmetro de 0,04” e 1,5 metros, apresentou o maior COP e maior eficiência de segunda lei, o que permite concluir que tubos capilares com diâmetros medianos e comprimentos menores proporcionam menores perdas de cargas, contribuindo para maior eficiência e redução de carga no compressor.
Correlation between Vitamin D and Urine Microalbumin among Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Prasanna Saka , Preethi Patil B
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Diabetic nephropathy is characterised by microalbuminuria (30-300 mg/day). Vitamin D is thought to affect pathophysiology of diabetes mellitus through vitamin D receptor activation or by regulating calcium homeostasis, thus contributing to development of diabetes mellitus and its complications in deficiency status.

Aim: To study the relationship between vitamin D levels and urine microalbumin among individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, both with and without diabetic nephropathy.

Materials and Methods: This was an analytical crosssectional study conducted in Department of Biochemistry and Nephrology, JJM Medical College, Davangere, Central Karnataka, India, between January 2019 and January 2020, involving 150 subjects: 50 with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) without nephropathy, 50 with T2DM with nephropathy, and 50 healthy individuals. Glycaemic control of subjects was estimated using Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c), and renal damage was screened with serum creatinine, vitamin D, and urine microalbumin levels. The comparison of HbA1c, serum creatinine, microalbumin in urine, and vitamin D was analysed by Kruskal-Wallis test, while the association between vitamin D and HbA1c, and its correlation with microalbumin, was analysed by Spearman’s correlation.

Results: The median age of controls and type 2 diabetics without nephropathy was 48 years, compared to 56 years among subjects with nephropathy, and the difference was statistically significant. A male preponderance was observed in all groups: 33 (66%) among type 2 diabetics without nephropathy, 34 (68%) among nephropathy subjects, and 36 (72%) among controls. The median concentrations of HbA1c, creatinine, and microalbumin were higher in diabetic nephropathy (8, 2.4, 140) compared to subjects without nephropathy (7, 1.16, 17) and controls (5.9, 1, 14). The median concentration of serum vitamin D was lower in diabetic nephropathy (12) compared to subjects without nephropathy (18) and controls (31). Furthermore, vitamin D and HbA1c were reciprocally related among diabetic nephropathy subjects (r=-0.61, p<0.001). In contrast, HbA1c and microalbumin were positively correlated (r=0.73, p<0.001).

Conclusion: There is a substantial correlation between glycemic control, in the form of HbA1c and renal damage, in the form of microalbumin, and vitamin D levels. This justifies the inclusion of vitamin D as a potential new screening tool for diabetic nephropathy along with microalbumin.
Potential Role of Ayurveda Interventions in the Management of Grade II Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Yadav Babita , Kuchewar Vaishali , Gupta Bharti
Published: December 2024

Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) represents a growing global health concern, particularly driven by rising obesity rates, with prevalence ranging from 11.2 to 37.2% in the general population. Ayurveda classifies NAFLD under Yakrit Roga (liver disease) and Medoroga (obesity), with traditional texts attributing its development to lifestyle factors that lead to imbalances in tridosha. Hereby, the authors present a unique case of 59-year-old male that highlights the therapeutic effects of Ayurveda interventions in managing grade II NAFLD, adding valuable insights to the scientific literature by demonstrating effective treatment in the absence of a standard care protocol. The patient presented with symptoms of indigestion and liver enlargement consistent with grade II NAFLD, confirmed through ultrasonography evaluation. Clinical findings included liver steatosis and mild hepatomegaly. The intervention involved Ayurveda-based therapies tailored to the patient’s condition, focusing on balancing Rakta-Kapha Dushti and dietary modifications based on classical Ayurveda guidelines. Following treatment, the patient experienced complete relief from symptoms of indigestion, and follow-up ultrasonography showed significant improvement, as there was no NAFLD. The present case report illustrates the potential of Chitrakadi Vati and Phaltrikadi Kashaya ghan vati as effective management strategies for NAFLD, particularly in the absence of established standard care. The takeaway lesson is that individualised Ayurveda treatment may offer a viable therapeutic approach for NAFLD, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional medicine into the broader clinical context of liver disorders.
Aesthetic and Functional Outcomes of Primary Hypospadias Repair: A Singlecentre Prospective Interventional Study
Authors: Banerjee Tibar , Basu Anirban , Bera Sudipta , Adhikari Souvik
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The results of hypospadias repair are often marred
by a high rate of complications. The contemporary hypospadias
repair aims to reduce the complications with the utilisation of
plastic and urogenital surgical principles. However, the aesthetic
and functional outcomes are often less emphasised.
Aim: To evaluate the functional and aesthetic outcomes related
to the clinical grades of hypospadias and different surgical
methods used for hypospadias repair.
Materials and Methods: In this single-centre prospective
interventional study, a total of 50 patients were operated on for
hypospadias and studied between March 2020 and October
2021 at the Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, IPGMER
and SSKM, Kolkata, West Bengal, India. The severity of
hypospadias was assessed with the Glans-Meatus-Shaft (GMS)
score. The postoperative aesthetic and functional outcomes
were evaluated with the Penile Perception Score (PPS) and
Hypospadias Objective Scoring Evaluation (HOSE), respectively.
The tabulated data were analysed with Statistical Package for
the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (Version 29.0.2.0 Armonk,
NY: IBM Corp). The subgroups within the population were
compared with the Student’s t-test and a p-value <0.05 was
considered statistically significant.
Results: The mean age of the study population was 9.92±8.61
years, ranging from one year to 34 years. The mean GMS score
was 6.8±2.33. The mean PPS and HOSE scores were 7.62 (SD
1.5) and 11.6 (SD 1.96), respectively. A 72% of patients had a
satisfactory outcome of PPS score (6-9), which is mostly obtained
in distal hypospadias cases (25/50). There were significant
differences in PPS score (p=0.008*) and HOSE score (p=0.012*)
between cases with no chordee and those with severe chordee,
but not among other groups based on the severity of chordee.
There were significant differences in the PPS score (p=0.002*)
and HOSE Score (p=0.035*) were observed between granular
and perineal hypospadias. There was significant difference in
the PPS score between the procedures for proximal and distal
hypospadias group, but not between the procedures within
each group.
Conclusion: The chance of obtaining a better aesthetic
outcome depends on the lesser severity of the chordee and
a distal location of the meatus. The location of meatus, rather
than the type of surgery, remains the most important factor
influencing both the aesthetic and functional outcome. Use of
an intermediate layer with the Dartos flap and Tunica Vaginalis
(TV) flap may improve the functional outcome of the surgery.
However, this finding needs further larger sample analysis and
randomised controlled analysis to draw a strong conclusion.
Assessment of Nutritional Status and its Associated Factors among the Elderly Population: A Cross-sectional Study from Rural Area of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Boornema A Ra , Aarthy M
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Elderly malnutrition is an iceberg phenomenon and remains undiagnosed most of the time. The elderly people are at risk of malnutrition due to physical, psychological, social, dietary and environmental risk factors. When malnutrition gets compounded with various co-morbidities, it turns into a vicious cycle.

Aim: To focus on the assessment of nutritional status and its associated factors among the elderly population above 60 years of age in a rural area of Madurai district, Tamil Nadu, India.

Materials and Methods: This was a community-based crosssectional study done for a period of four months in the rural field practice area of Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. Following ethical clearance, study subjects were selected by using single stage area wise cluster sampling technique. Data was collected from 240 elderly individuals by face to face interview using semistructured questionnaire. Details regarding socio-demographic variables like age, gender, educational status, occupational status, economic dependency and place of residence were taken. Nestle’s Short Form Mini Nutritional Assessment (SF-MNA) screening tool was used to assess the nutritional status of the study participants. The association was assessed by Chi-square test. Significance level was considered at p-value of ≤0.05.

Results: Prevalence of malnutrition was seen among 33 (13.75%) individuals. A 105 (43.75%) were at the risk of malnutrition and 102 (42.5%) had satisfactory nutritional status. The comparison between well nourished, at risk of malnutrition and malnourished groups showed significant differences with respect to age (p-value=0.016), economic dependency (p-value=0.002), place of residence (p-value=0.004), Body Mass Index (BMI) (p-value=0.024), calf circumference (p-value=0.016) and presence of co-morbid illness (p-value=0.015).

Conclusion: The findings of the present study clearly indicate that malnutrition is a multifactorial condition associated with socio-demographic, somatic and functional status. A multidimensional approach is required to deal with these issues. Nutritional assessment and screening of elderly people should be done by opportunistic screening for early detection of malnutrition and to implement an appropriate nutritional intervention.
Three Weeks of Extracorporeal Therapy and Telerehabilitation for Supraspinatus Calcific Tendinosis: A Case Report
Authors: Katke Sneha , Shetti Sachin , Naik Prashant , Anthikat Manal
Published: December 2024

This case report presents the treatment of a patient with shoulder calcification and reduced Range of Motion (ROM) using a combination of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) and telerehabilitation. The patient received three sessions of ESWT, once per week, followed by daily guided shoulder exercises delivered via telerehabilitation for three weeks. Pre- and post-treatment assessments included goniometry for ROM, the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) score for shoulder function and X-ray imaging. The results demonstrated significant improvements in pain, function and ROM suggesting the potential benefits of this combined approach in reducing patient burden and promoting sustainability in physiotherapy.
Utility of Serum Lipids and CEA Levels as Novel Markers in Comparison to Various Histopathological Parameters and TNM Staging in Colorectal Carcinoma: A Research Protocol
Authors: Biswas Abhishek Ghose , Gadkari Pravin
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most widespread type of cancer around the globe. Elevated Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) levels, a blood protein, are often observed in CRC patients.

Need of the Study: Among gastrointestinal cancers, CRC is the most frequent cause of death. This research aims to investigate the potential link between serum lipid profiles, the levels of CEA, and the risk of developing CRC. Early detection and staging of CRC are crucial for effective management and improved outcomes.

Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of serum lipids and CEA levels as novel markers compared to different Tumour Node Metastasis (TNM) staging and histopathological parameters in CRC.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study will be conducted in the Department of Pathology at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra, India from October 2024 to April 2026. Peripheral blood samples will be collected from CRC patients to determine serum lipid profiles and CEA levels. Resected colon specimens will be processed and graded using TNM staging with appropriate staining. Karl Pearson’s test (data distributed normally) or Spearman’s test (data distributed non normally) will be used to conduct a correlation between continuous variables. A p-value of less than 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.
Unravelling Chikungunya’s Neurological Toll: Section A Case Report with Insights from Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Brain
Authors: Yadav Ponvijaya M , Gokhale Vijayashree , Mangudkar Sangram S , Nimmala Sindhuri Goud , Giduturi Vineetha Naga Lakshmi
Published: December 2024

Chikungunya, an emerging neurotropic virus, has the potential to induce various neurological abnormalities. When suspecting encephalitis, it is imperative to test for the Chikungunya virus, which requires an early diagnosis and course of treatment. This is a case report of a 54-year-old male who presented with fever, giddiness, ataxia and slurred speech. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain revealed typical hallmark features of chikungunya encephalitis, with an incidental right cerebellopontine angle tumour. A positive serum chikungunya antigen Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) validated the diagnosis. The patient was initially managed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), showing a dramatic response to the treatment, and then shifted to the medicine ward for further observation and management. This case underscores the importance of considering chikungunya in patients presenting with encephalitis differential diagnosis, especially in endemic regions like India. Comprehensive imaging and PCR testing were instrumental in diagnosis. Treatment included supportive care, intravenous antibiotics, antivirals and steroids, leading to significant improvement. By day 12, notable recovery was observed, and follow-up MRI brain showed no new abnormalities. This case adds to the evidence of severe neurological manifestations of Chikungunya virus, highlighting the need for early recognition and management to improve outcomes. The concurrent presentation of chikungunya encephalitis and a cerebello-pontine angle tumour emphasises the necessity for thorough neuroimaging and PCR testing in suspected cases. The patient’s dramatic recovery following timely intervention demonstrates the potential for positive outcomes with appropriate management.
Agreement between Ki-67 Proliferative Index in Breast Cancer by Conventional Hotspot Method and International Ki-67 in Breast Cancer Working Group Global Scoring Method: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Radhakrishnan Nidhi , Kasukurti Padma Priya , Kamath Sulata M , Clement Wilfred  , Gouri SR Mangala
Published: December 2024

Introduction: The role of the Ki-67 Proliferative Index (PI) in the molecular classification and as a predictive and prognostic biomarker in breast cancer is definitive. To address the inconsistency in Ki-67 interpretation and scoring, the International Ki-67 in Breast Cancer Working Group (IKWG) introduced the visual scoring Android Application (APP) and proposed a standardised scoring method. Aim: To determine Ki-67 proliferative indices by both the Global Method (GW) with the Ki-67 visual scoring app recommended by IKWG and conventional institutional Hotspot Method (HM), and to analyse the agreement between the indices obtained by these two methods. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 71 Ki-67 immunostained hormone receptor-positive trucut biopsies of breast cancers from January 2022 to January 2024 were retrospectively collected. Two observers independently scored the biopsies using HM and GW by an app in the Department of Pathology of a tertiary care centre. The GW scores of Ki-67 PI obtained were categorised into low, intermediate and high groups based on 2015 St. Gallen guidelines. A two-way random Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the absolute agreement between two scorers. Results: The overall intraclass correlation between interobserver values by HM was 0.819 (good), while it was 0.971 (excellent) by GW. The overall interobserver mean difference was five times greater (p-value=0.008, statistically significant) than the overall interobserver global weighted scores (p-value=0.901, not statistically significant). Conclusion: The study highlighted the significant interobserver variability in HM compared to GW scores by the app. The standardised app scoring method has the potential to broaden the prognostic role of Ki-67 as a companion diagnostic tool.
Management of Chronic Kidney Disease through Ayurvedic Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa: A Case Report
Authors: Rai Mayank , Wajpeyi Sadhana Misar
Published: December 2024

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has become a major public health issue affecting both younger and older individuals. The prevalence of CKD is on the rise, primarily driven by conditions such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. CKD is characterised by progressive and irreversible damage to the kidneys, often presenting asymptomatically in its early stages. As the disease advances, patients may experience symptoms such as pedal oedema, decreased appetite, nausea, reduced urine output, frothy urine and fatigue. Laboratory tests typically show increased levels of creatinine and serum urea, indicating poor renal function. Traditional treatments, including dialysis and renal transplantation, remain mainstream approaches for managing CKD. However, these interventions are often financially prohibitive for many individuals in India, underscoring the urgent need for more affordable and accessible alternatives. In response to these challenges, Ayurvedic medicine offers promising alternative treatments. Hereby, the authors present a case of a 30-year-old male suffering from CKD; despite being recommended for dialysis, the patient opted for Ayurvedic treatment. Ayurvedic Shodhana chikitsa (purification and rejuvenating therapy) through Basti (therapeutic enema) combined with oral herbomineral formulations has demonstrated renoprotective effects and potential benefits in improving haematological parameters in CKD cases. The present case report highlights the importance of traditional Ayurvedic approaches as alternatives to prevent dialysis for CKD patients, particularly in low-income populations.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Presenting as Life Threatening Hyponatremic Dehydration: A Tale of Missed Diagnosis
Authors: Yadav Dinkar , Dalal Poonam , Bhalla Kapil , Gathwala Geeta
Published: December 2024

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is a group of autosomal recessive disorders that occur due to defects in steroid synthesis. It is characterised by a deficiency of adrenocortical hormones and an excess of steroid precursors. A deficiency of 21-hydroxylase is the most common type, constituting 90% of the cases. The authors hereby, report a case of a one-month-old baby who presented to the Paediatric Emergency Department with typical features of the salt-wasting form of CAH. The diagnosis was confirmed with elevated levels of 17-hydroxyprogesterone and a Cytochrome P450 Family 21 Subfamily A Member 2 (CYP21A2) gene mutation. The child was managed with hydrocortisone, fludrocortisone and salt supplementation, along with symptomatic and supportive care. The child is still under regular follow-up and is doing well.
A Rare Report of Carbapenem Resistant Vibrio fluvialis Isolated from a case of Walled off Necrosis: A Sequelae of Acute Necrotising Pancreatitis
Authors: Perumal P Ganesh , Venkatakrishnan L , Appalaraju B , Rajakumar R , Someshwaran R
Published: December 2024

Vibrio fluvialis (V. fluvialis) is commonly found in coastal environments and is an emerging pathogen encountered in diarrhoeal outbreaks and sporadic extraintestinal cases. V. fluvialis infections usually manifest as watery bloody diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, gastroenteritis and peritonitis. In this case report, an unusual presentation of Multidrug Resistant (MDR) V. fluvialis along with Klebsiella pneumoniae co-infection from a case of Walled Off Necrosis (WON)- A complication of Acute Necrotising Pancreatitis (ANP) is discussed. The patient presented with the acute abdomen and had peripancreatic collection for which Ultrasound (USG) guided 12F pigtail drain placed over the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and conservatively managed. Routine cultures were done and the growth on Sheep Blood Agar (SBA) plate and MacConkey (MAC) agar plates were subjected for automated phenotypic identification by Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time of Flight-Mass Spectrometry (MALDITOF-MS) and Vitek-2 systems and was identified as V. fluvialis. Also, molecular tests like 16S rRNA Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) followed by Sanger’s sequencing was done and the identification was further confirmed. Phenotypic RESIST-5 TRURAPID O.K.N.V.I. commercial lateral flow immunochromatographic assay for detection of clinically relevant and common carbapenemase genes like NDM, OXA-48, VIM, IMP and KPC was done which revealed this V. fluvialis isolate as New Delhi Metallo betalactamase (NDM) type of Carbapenemase producer. Patient was managed with levofloxacin and doxycycline and patient condition improved and was discharged.
Association of Marital Quality, Loneliness and Demographic Variables among Healthcare Professionals: A Cross-sectional Study from Gujarat, India
Authors: Varyani Kanishka , Sharma Ritu
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Marital quality, generally understood as a global evaluation of marriage based on certain criteria, is a significant determinant of psychological wellbeing and work efficacy among individuals, particularly among Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) facing high-stress environments and long working hours. Recently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has recognised loneliness as a global threat with serious negative impacts on physical and mental health, affecting diverse populations, including HCPs.

Aim: To investigate marital quality among HCPs and its association with loneliness, as well as demographic variables such as age, gender and duration of marriage.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional research was conducted from September 2023 to January 2024, including 199 married HCPs practicing as doctors, nurses, or administrative staff in hospitals or clinics in Gujarat, India, based on their marital status and voluntary participation in the study. A semistructured questionnaire was used for demographic details, along with the Marital Quality Scale (MQS) and University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) Loneliness Scale (version 3) to collect data. Cross-tabulation, Chi-square (χ2 ) and Pearson correlation were used to analyse the data in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 28.0.

Results: Out of the 199 participants, 120 were males (60.30%) and 79 were females (39.70%). The average age of the participants was 42.8±9.12 years. An overwhelming majority of 152 HCPs (76.4%) reported severely impacted marital quality. A strong and significant correlation was observed between marital quality and loneliness (r=0.609, p-value<0.001). A non significant correlation was observed between age and marital quality (r=0.061, p-value=0.396) and loneliness (r=-0.048, p-value=0.505). Similar results were also observed between the duration of marriage and marital quality (r=0.033, p-value=0.644) and loneliness (r=-0.023, p-value=0.747).

Conclusion: The findings suggest that interventions to enhance marital quality among HCPs should focus more on interpersonal and situational factors such as communication style, conflict resolution, support from the spouse, increasing empathy, sexual satisfaction and intimacy, rather than demographic variables.
Congenital Anterior Urethral Obstruction: A Case Series
Authors: Madhusoodanan Sreelakshmi , Soman Aravind C , Kumar GM Asok , Menon Hridya
Published: December 2024

Congenital Anterior Urethral Diverticulum (CAUD) and Anterior Urethral Valve (AUV) are rare but well-described causes of urinary obstruction in male children. The clinical presentation can range from isolated poor urinary stream with normal bladder and upper tracts to severe obstructive uropathy with renal failure. In the present case series, six children with anterior urethral obstruction managed between June 2014 and June 2024 were retrospectively identified. Age at presentation, clinical features, investigations, management and long-term follow-up were studied. The age at presentation ranged from newborn to seven years. Severe disease, as evidenced by progressive renal failure, was present in 1 of the 6 children (16.6%). One child had undergone foetal intervention by valve ablation but had progressive renal failure on follow-up. Three children (50%) underwent diverticulum excision with urethroplasty, of which one child developed a postoperative urethrocutaneous fistula. One child with AUV had a dorsal urethral fold causing obstruction, unlike the ventral pathology observed in the other children. CAUD and AUV are rare yet important causes of obstructive uropathy. Careful assessment is crucial for making the correct diagnosis. Temporary diversion may be essential when cystoscopy or primary repair is not feasible or in cases of urosepsis.
Impact of Half an Hour Inhalation of Lemongrass Oil on Audio Visual Reaction Time: A Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Shrimali Khushboo , Kaur Manjinder , Sharma Suman , Chaudhary Saroj
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Lemongrass oil has become a significant focus in aromatherapy research due to its psychomodulatory effects, which are believed to act through the limbic system- a critical region for emotional control and memory. Research indicates that lemongrass oil can effectively lower anxiety, improve mood and enhance cognitive performance. However, the specific mechanisms by which lemongrass oil influences neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission remain unclear.

Aim: To explore Auditory Reaction Time (ART) and Visual Reaction Time (VRT) to gain a better understanding of the neurophysiological effects of lemongrass oil and its potential therapeutic uses following 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil.

Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 30 healthy volunteers after obtaining clearance from the ethics committee and informed consent from the participants. The audio visual reaction times were recorded twice for each subject, before and after the intervention- i.e., 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil using an aroma lamp. The data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, and a paired t-test was applied.

Results: The present study showed a significant decrease in both ART and VRT (p-value=0.001 and 0.02, respectively) after 30 minutes of inhalation of lemongrass oil. The preexposure values of ART (1.01±0.46 msec) decreased to 0.79±0.29 msec, while VRT (0.70±0.29 msec) decreased to 0.63±0.26 msec.

Conclusion: The shortened ART and VRT indicate the stimulatory effect of inhaling lemongrass oil on central neurons, especially in the limbic system, through the activation of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors. Hence, this results in increased attention and alertness in the brain.
Influence of Addition of Murbei (Morus alba L.) Flowers to Food for Fathering Mangrove CRABS (Scylla serrata) Apartment Systems
Authors: Nurlaila  , Junaidi Muhammad , Affandi Rangga Idris
Published: December 2024

Mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) is one of the fishery commodities that has high economic value. In Indonesia, crab cultivation has been widely developed, it can be seen from the cultivation media used, namely using vertical crab houses (apartments) with the RAS system. However, the problem in the mangrove crab cultivation system lies in the feed, the lack of nutrients in the feed results in non-optimal crab growth so that it is less attractive to consumers and causes its economic value to decline. Therefore, alternative feed is needed in the form of feed pellets that are in accordance with the nutritional needs of mangrove crabs and the addition of feed raw materials in the form of mulberry leaf flour in feed that can stimulate the growth of mangrove crabs. Therefore, this study aims to determine the optimal dose of mulberry leaf flour for mangrove crab feed in stimulating growth. This study used an experimental method conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 5 treatments and 3 replicates.  Treatments in this study include: A (Control), B (7.5%), C (15%), D (22.5%) and E (30%). The results showed that the administration of mulberry leaf flour with different doses in mangrove crab feed had a real effect (P<0.05) on the growth of absolute weight (W), absolute length (P), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR) and feed utilization efficiency (EPP) and had no real effect (P>0.05) on the Survival Rate (SR). Treatment C (15%) is the best dose of mulberry leaf flour that can support the growth and survival of mangrove crabs. the highest values were W (14.6±2.6 d), P (0.6±0.3 b), SGR (0.34±0.06 s), FCR (18.39±3.50 a) and EPP (48.51±2.80 c).
Comparison of the Sensory Quality of Fresh and Steamed Organic Tilapia
Authors: Daniel Rosemarie V.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the sensory attributes of steamed and fresh organic tilapia and determine the acceptability of both preparations among consumers. Fifty respondents, aged 15-60 years, participated in the sensory evaluation. The organic tilapia used in the study was of the GET ExCEL 2010 strain, harvested with an average weight of 60-100 grams after a four-month culture period. Both steamed and fresh tilapia were assessed for five sensory attributes: shininess of scales, color of eyes, color of gills, odor, and firmness. The sensory evaluation was conducted using a consumer preference test, and statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests. The results indicated that both steamed and fresh tilapia were generally well-accepted, with no significant differences in sensory attributes between the two preparations (p-value > 0.05). Steamed tilapia scored higher in odor, with a mean of 8.0, "Like Very Much," while fresh tilapia received slightly lower scores in visual attributes such as shininess of scales and color of eyes. However, both forms maintained moderate acceptability in terms of odor and gill color, key indicators of freshness. The findings suggest that organic tilapia, regardless of preparation method, offers a consistent sensory experience, making it a versatile and appealing option for consumers. This study highlights the potential of organic tilapia as a sustainable and high-quality freshwater fish choice in the market.