bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting Citizen Adoption of E-Government in Developing Countries
Authors: Sabani Alvedi , Thai Vinh , Hossain Mohammad Alamgir
Published: February 2023

This study aims to examine the critical factors that could influence citizens in their decisions to adopt e-Government services. Based on the review of relevant literature, an extension of the UTAUT research model is developed. Through semi-structured interviews conducted in Indonesia with citizens who have adopted e-Government services, the research model is examined using thematic analysis. Results indicate that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, system quality, and perceived transparency are factors that significantly influence the adoption of e-government in Indonesia, whereas social influence, facilitating conditions, perceived security, information quality, and government encouragement are moderately significant factors. Meanwhile, ICT literacy is the least significant factor in the adoption of e-Government in Indonesia. Such findings are presented in the action priority matrix to offer public organisations with relevant suggestions on how the adoption of e-Government can be improved.
Production of Nanocomposite Tungsten Carbide Buttons by Mixing with Co and ZrO2 Nanopowders
Authors: Alhazza Abdulsalam
Published: February 2023

The production of nanocomposite tungsten carbide buttons was studied. Using the mechanically induced solid-state mixing technique, the nanopowders were mixed with Cobalt (Co) and Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2). During the consolidation and manufacturing process, the nanocrystalline characteristics of the nanocomposite were improved by replacing Co with ZrO2-2 mol% yttria (YO3), and the average grain size was reduced to 23-49µm. With the advent of fast sintering techniques and the synthesis of nanocomposites from the consolidation of nanocomposite powders, full dense buttons with outstanding properties were produced. These buttons have a very high nano hardness value (24.41GPa) and a low Young's modulus (E) value (332.02 GPa).
Building a local reference library for metabarcoding survey of lake macrobenthos: oligochaetes and chironomids from Lake Maggiore
Authors: Zaupa Silvia , Fontaneto Diego , Sabatino Raffaella , Boggero Angela
Published: February 2023

This study represents a first reference database of genetic diversity of macroinvertebrates for a barcoding marker for Lake Maggiore, focusing on the two dominant groups of the littoral benthic fauna (chironomids and oligochaetes), commonly used for biological monitoring of freshwater lakes. Sediment samples were sorted at the stereomicroscope and single animals were cut in two pieces, one piece to be used for morphological identification and one piece for DNA extraction. This study allowed us to collect and identify 427 organisms: 309 oligochaetes belonging to 27 identifiable taxa and 118 chironomid larvae belonging to 26 identifiable taxa. Four families of oligochaetes: Naididae, Lumbricidae, Lumbriculidae, and Enchytraeidae and five subfamilies of Chironomidae: Chironominae, Tanypodinae, Orthocladiinae, Diamesinae, and Prodiamesinae were found. The extraction and amplification of the DNA covered a total of 10 oligochaete taxa. For 7 of them (Ophidonais serpentina, Uncinais uncinata, Vejdovskyella intermedia, Psammoryctides barbatus, Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri, Tubifex tubifex, and Bothrioneurum vejdovskyanum), we found other sequences in GenBank to compare genetic similarities with available data. For the other taxa (Lumbriculidae, and Enchytraeidae, and Nais sp.) no best hits were found in GenBank. The extraction and amplification of the DNA covered a total of 21 chironomid taxa. For ten species (Cladotanytarsus mancus, Cladotanytarsus atridorsum, Polypedilum scalaenum, Polypedilum nubeculosum, Benthalia carbonaria, Phaenopsectra flavipes, Clinotanypus nervosus, Paracladopelma laminatum, Cryptochironomus rostratus and Parakiefferiella finnmarkica) sequences were available in GenBank to compare genetic similarities. For the other taxa (Cryptochironomus sp., Demicryptochironomus vulneratus, Chironomus sp., Stictochironomus sp., Orthocladius sp., Cricotopus sp., Eukiefferiella sp., Procladius sp., Diamesa sp., Potthastia sp., and Monodiamesa bathyphila) no best hits were found in GenBank. For chironomids, DNA taxonomy revealed the existence of several species complexes. Covering more populations and more genetic markers for those taxa within a rationale of integrative taxonomy could solve the taxonomic problems and provide a reliable description of diversity.
Representación de las identidades “trans” en la justicia penal
Authors: Cruz Márquez Beatriz
Published: February 2023

En el presente trabajo se realiza un análisis cualitativo de las resoluciones disponibles en la base de datos del CENDOJ correspondientes al periodo 2010 – 2021 en que la víctima de los hechos juzgados es una persona trans[1]. El objetivo principal del estudio consiste en analizar el tratamiento y exposición de la información relativa a las personas trans afectadas, así como observar la posible influencia de la inclusión de la discriminación por razón de género por la reforma del CP de 2015, como agravante específica y como motivo incluido entre delitos contra el ejercicio de los derechos fundamentales de los artículos 510 y ss. Los resultados permiten identificar diferencias en la visibilización y tratamiento de las víctimas trans según la concurrencia de determinados contextos de victimización – relación sentimental, trata y explotación sexual, ocio nocturno –, así como una escasa valoración de la concurrencia de la agravante.
[1] Se adopta este término paraguas, general e inclusivo, que engloba a aquellas personas cuya identidad de género y/o expresión de género es diferente de las expectativas culturales basadas en el sexo que se les asignó al nacer.
El ejercicio de los derechos de acceso a la información y la participación en asuntos ambientales en la protección de los derechos bioculturales e intergeneracionales
Authors: Roldán Ana María , Restrepo Carolina Restrepo , Vásquez Jorge Eduardo
Published: February 2023

Los derechos de acceso a la información, a la participación y a la justicia en asuntos ambientales se han definido como las bases más adecuadas para realizar el desarrollo sostenible, una práctica que debe integrar la prevención y la debida resolución de los conflictos socioambientales. En ese contexto se propuso como pregunta de investigación ¿Cómo ha sido el ejercicio de los derechos de acceso a la información y la participación para la protección de derechos intergeneracionales y bioculturales en Colombia a partir de la vigencia de la Constitución Política de 1991? un problema que se respalda en los derechos de acceso, en la información, la participación, la intergeneracionalidad y la bioculturalidad como categorías predefinidas, para el cual se propuso un diseño metodológico sustentado en el modelo de investigación cualitativa, con respaldo en el enfoque sociojurídico, los métodos hermenéutico y fenomenológico, y el empleo de entrevistas semiestructuradas a profundidad realizadas a sujetos que han asumido el rol de actores ante el poder judicial de Colombia. Como conclusiones, las voces de los sujetos que han ejercido los derechos de acceso a la información y a la participación ambiental develan la configuración de una excesiva judicialización para garantizar los derechos de acceso, lo que invierte y distorsiona la naturaleza de esos derechos, en la medida que siendo derechos procedimentales no judiciales, en la mayoría de supuestos requieren de la judicialización para poder abrir posibilidades de acceso a la justicia, lo que se puede sintetizar en judicializar el acceso para acceder a la justicia.
RANCANG BANGUN PERMAINAN TRADISIONAL KALIMANTAN TENGAH BAGAPIT MENGGUNAKAN ALGORITMA ALPHA BETA DAN MTD(F)
Authors: Priskila Ressa , Putra Putu Bagus Adidyana Anugrah
Published: February 2023

Bagapit is a traditional game from Central Kalimantan. This game is usually done in free time or after doing daily tasks. This traditional game has begun to be forgotten, because of the rapid development of technology. In this day and age, people prefer to play games with gadgets. Therefore, to preserve and introduce this game to the wider community who are already familiar with technology, it is necessary to create a mobile-based bagapit game application. This game was made using the Multimedia Development Life Cycle (MDLC) method. This method consists of 6 stages, namely concept, design, collecting material, assembly, and testing. In this research, the system design is made by making use case diagrams, activity diagrams, storyboards, and User Interface designs. The material collected at the material collecting stage consists of background, object images, and audio. To determine the steps in the game, the Alpha Beta pruning algorithm and the MTD(f) algorithm are used. The making of this bagapit game uses the Godot Engine which uses the GDScript programming language. Testing is carried out using the black box testing method to ensure all functions in the game can function properly. This game consists of 3 levels that players can choose from. It is hoped that this game can introduce, provide insight, and preserve the bagapit game which is a traditional game typical of Central Kalimantan to the general public.
SISTEM PAKAR TINGKAT STRES PADA MAHASISWA SKRIPSI BERBASIS WEBSITE (STUDI KASUS: FAKULTAS TEKNIK UNIVERSITAS PALANGKA RAYA)
Authors: Atika Putu , Sahay Abertun Sagit , Nugrahaningsih Nahumi , Lestari Ariesta , Sylviana Felicia
Published: February 2023

An expert system is an application program that tries to imitate the reasoning of an expert in solving a problem. Students at the Faculty of Engineering who are taking a thesis must have experienced stress when working on a thesis, this is obtained from internal and external factors, stress is divided into 4, namely normal, mild, moderate, and severe stress. To find out what level of stress they are experiencing while working on the thesis.  

Therefore, in this thesis research, we will discuss how to design and build an Expert System application for Stress Levels for Website-Based Thesis Students (Case Study: Faculty of Engineering, University of Palangka Raya) aims to create an expert system using the forward chaining method and certainty factor, by making an application. In this way, students can find out the level of stress that is being experienced when working on a thesis and be given solutions according to the level of stress.

The result is an expert system application that can replace the presence of experts to diagnose stress levels. Students make independent diagnoses by answering the symptoms they are experiencing. This study uses 10 student data from the Department of Civil Engineering 3, Architecture 2, Informatics Engineering 3, and Mining Engineering 2. The results can be concluded that the dominant students experience severe stress levels when working on theses. There is a recapitulation to see the percentage of students who experience stress levels at stress levels and periods.
Negotiating the night: creative class in a post-secular mahalle, the case of Balat
Authors: Can Elvan
Published: February 2023

İstanbul’da devam eden kentsel dönüşüm projeleri, soylulaştırma ile sonuçlanmıştır. Bu hızlı tempolu dönüşüm, mahalleleri değiştirirken günlük hayatı da etkiliyor. İstanbul’un en eski mahallelerinden biri olan Balat, kültür odaklı soylulaştırmanın etkisiyle dönüşmekte ve yaratıcı sınıfın giderek popüler bir mekanı haline gelmektedir. İstanbul ile ilgili önemli literatür bize, bazı bölgelerde gece hayatı ve alkol tüketiminin yerel halk ve yeni gelenler arasında bir gerilim yarattığını bildirmektedir. Balat’ın dindar çoğunluğu, hükümetin muhafazakar, post-seküler değerleri ile uyumludur. Bu, işletmeleri sekülerlikten arındırma, alkol servisi yapmamayı seçme ve gece faaliyetlerinden tamamen kaçınma şeklinde ortaya çıkabilir. Başka bir deyişle, Balat’ta tolere edilen tüketim şekli İslam dışında düşünülemez. Bu gece müzakerelerinin çalışmasında kullanılan yöntemler ve post-seküler değerlerin Balat’ta etkisi, doktora saha çalışması sırasında gerçekleştirilen bir mikro-etnografi çalışmasının bir parçası olarak 3 ay boyunca yapılan gözlemden oluşmaktadır. Bu makale, gecenin aktif olarak müzakere edildiği ve aidiyet ve topluluk duygusunun soylulaştırma ve sekülerlik sonrası tarafından yeniden yapılandırıldığı Balat’taki yaratıcı sınıf ve yerliler arasındaki paralel yaşamlar hakkında düşünmeyi genişletecektir.
Womxn's agency in divided cities: mapping marginal actions in Nicosia
Authors: Kotsoni Areti
Published: February 2023

Çatışmalı çevrelerde en çok zorluk çeken gruplardan biri, ötekileştirilmiş toplumsal cinsiyetlere sahip bireylerdir. Şehirler ötekileştirilmiş cemiyetlerin kendi failliklerini ve alanlarını genişletme mücadelesi ile şekillenirler. Tasarımcı ve plancılar kesişimsel bakış açıları ile bu ötekileştirilmiş toplulukların ilişkilerini çözümleyebilir ve çatışma içerisindeki kentleşme süreçlerini anlamak adına yeni yaklaşımlar getirebilirler. Bu amaçla kapsayıcı bir bakış açısını benimsemek ve susturulmuş seslere yer açmak önem kazanmaktadır. Sınır durumlarına yakından bakan haritalama pratikleri, bu enformal oluşumların arka planlarını açığa çıkarmak için daha demokratik bir alan açar. Bu makale içinden sınır geçen bir kent olan Lefkoşa’da kadınların barış için seslerini nasıl duyurduklarını incelerken, bunu oluşturan jeopolitik krizin dışına çıkmanın ve kadınların şehirdeki bedenleri ve gündelik hayattaki hareketlerine odaklanmanın yollarını haritalama yöntemi ile araştırmaktadır. Nitelik ve niceliğe dayalı yöntemlerin kullanıldığı bu araştırmada sınırlara dair geleneksel yargılar kırılmakta, bu alanları kullanan sosyal grupların etkisiyle sınır mekanlarının esasen geçirimli, dinamik peyzajlar olduğu açığa çıkmaktadır.
A gazdaságpolitika lehetőségei energiasokk kezelésére kis és nyitott országokban
Authors: Czelleng Ádám
Published: February 2023

A koronavírus-járványt és Oroszország Ukrajna elleni agresszióját követően elsősorban az energiaárak emelkedése nyomán ismét két számjegyű infláció ütötte fel a fejét Európában. A gazdaságpolitikai döntéshozók információs korlátokba ütköznek, mert nem ismert a folyamatok tartóssága, miközben a jegybanki beavatkozás nincs hatással a folyamatok eredetére, holott a transzmisszió rendszerint elhúzódva jelentkezik. A tanulmány egy kis és nyitott ország gazdaságpolitikai lehetőségeit vizsgálja nem permanens energiaársokk esetén egy egyszerűsített újkeynesi alapokon nyugvó félstrukturális modell segítségével. A cikk a releváns nemzetközi szakirodalmat kiegészítve a monetáris és a fiskális politika rövid és hosszú távú teljesítményét értékeli. Tudományosan újszerű következtetése, hogy számos alkalmazott monetáris politikai szabály minősítése alapján rövid távon kedvezőbb valamilyen passzív monetáris politika alkalmazása, míg hosszú távon az aktív politika gazdasági eredményei előnyösebbek. Megfelelő kamatszabály megválasztásával ugyanakkor a passzív politika hátránya hosszú távon ledolgozható. Nem permanens sokk esetén is a fiskális politika jelentős mértékben hozzájárulhat az induló állapothoz való visszatéréshez. A beruházások finanszírozási forrása számottevő mértékben határozza meg a gazdasági pályát. A tanulmány rámutat arra, hogy a gazdaságpolitikai lehetőségeket nagymértékben befolyásolja a külföldi szereplőket ért sokk és az arra adott válaszreakció.
A külföldi befektetések védelme Mongóliában
Authors: Baata Ninjin
Published: February 2023

A tanulmány a közvetlen külföldi befektetések védelmét szolgáló mongol szabályozási környezet fejlődését mutatja be az országban az 1990-es évek elején bekövetkezett demokratikus átmenettől napjainkig. A tanulmányban elemzett változások a befektetők közötti egyenlőbb versenyfeltételek irányába mutatnak, mivel a beruházásvédelem kezdetben a hazai befektetők helyzetéhez képest lényegesen kedvezőbb kondíciókat teremtett a külföldi befektetők számára. A befektetésvédelem jogi kereteinek folyamatos változása érintette a beruházások engedélyezésének követelményrendszerét is, ami olyan korlátok bevezetéséhez is elvezetett, amelyek hatással voltak a külföldi állami tulajdonú vállalatok mongóliai tevékenységére. Emellett a nemzeti ásványkincsek védelmét szolgálták. A tanulmány kitér a beruházásvédelem különböző eszközeire, így bemutatja az adózási környezetre vonatkozó állami kötelezettségvállalásokat. Tárgyalja a Mongóliát érintő, külföldi befektetésekkel összefüggő nemzetközi választottbírósági esetjogot is.
Study protocol: The cross-sectional Uppsala weight gain in pregnancy study (VIGA study)
Authors: Kunovac Kallak Theodora , Zancanaro Alice , Junus Katja , Wikström Anna-Karin , Sundström Poromaa Inger , Lager Susanne
Published: February 2023

Background: More than two in five Swedish women are overweight or obese when becoming pregnant. Maternal overweight or obesity and excessive pregnancy weight gain are associated with several adverse pregnancy outcomes. The underlying mechanisms that link maternal adiposity, diet, exercise, pregnancy weight gain with pregnancy outcome are incompletely understood.

Methods: We describe the design for a cross-sectional study of pregnant women at Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden. All participants delivered by elective cesarean section before the onset of labor. At inclusion, participants answered two questionnaires concerning their dietary and exercise habits. Fasting maternal blood samples (buffy coat, plasma, serum) were collected. During the cesarean section, biopsies of maternal subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues were obtained. Placental tissue was collected after delivery. All biological samples were processed as soon as possible, frozen on dry ice, and stored at −70 °C. Pregnancy outcomes and supplementary maternal characteristics were collected from medical records.

Results: In total, 143 women were included in the study. Of these women, 33.6% were primiparous, 46.2% had a pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) over 25 kg/m2, and 11.2% of the offspring were born large for gestational age (LGA). Complete collection, that is both questionnaires and all types of biological samples, was obtained from 81.1% of the participants.

Conclusions: This study is expected to provide a resource for exploration of the associations between maternal weight, diet, exercise, pregnancy weight gain, and pregnancy outcome. Results from this study will be published in peer-reviewed, international scientific journals. This study was approved by the Regional Ethics Review Board in Uppsala (approval no 2014/353) and with an amendment by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (approval no 2020-05844).
Cosmetic Science
Authors: Abhijit Ravindra Patil  , S. K. Bais  , P. H. Gadhire
Published: February 2023

Cosmetics, also known ikeup or ake-up. ae care substances used to enhance the appearance or order of the human body. They are generally mixtures of chemical compound some bang derived from natural sources (such as coconut oil) and many being synthetics .In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which enhance cosmetics, defines cosmetics as "intended to be applied to the human body for cleaning . Beautifying promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance washout affecting the body's structure or functions. This material intended for use as component of a cosmetic product. The FDA specifically excludes soap from this category.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Low Birth Weight Infants in Hospital Wanita dan Kanak-kanak Sabah from 2014 â€“ 2017
Authors: Bee Hwai Tan
Published: February 2023

Background: There is a strong need to reduce costs of hospital and advocating health economics in countries like the United States of America. The rising cost of healthcare globally especially in the United States of America has interestingly outraged the temper of many citizens about the Obamacare and Trumpcare. The issue about high cost in healthcare is the failure for people globally to recognize that healthcare facility is a 24-hour round-the-clock service. It therefore involves doubling of the utility bills, tripling the manpower due to shifts and rest, wear-and-tear of basic electrical devices is short-lived, breakdown period of huge machine is consistently due to overloaded usages in the government hospitals and poor knowledge of the maintenance programme. Low birth weights (LBW) is a public health concern because it has a well-known predisposition to increased risk for perinatal infections, respiratory distress and ultimately mortality. There is also a higher risk of poor health outcomes throughout the life course of the LBW newborns that includes Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, neurodevelopmental disabilities and cardiovascular diseases. The World Health Organization and United Nations Childâ€™s Fund estimate the prevalence of low birth weights in the world ranges from 3% to 32%. Albania in the year 2000 recorded prevalence of low birth weight of 3% whereas Yemen recorded a low birth weight of 32% in 1997. In 2015, the US national vital statistics pointed out that 83.9% of preterm birth (PTB) are LBW. This indicates that prevention of PTB will lead to a decreasein the incidence of LBW.

Keywords: low birth weight, parity
Entomological Surveillance on Resistance of Aedes to Aqua K-Otherine at Taman Sri Rugading, Tuaran, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Netto Marcus
Published: February 2023

Background: Dengue fever and its fatal complications have made a comeback since its control in the 1990â€™s. The Flavivirus has evolved into 4 serotypes DEN 1,2,3,4 which can be passed on by the mosquitoes for 7 generations for each serotype. This communicable disease is predominantly confined to urban areas. Quick control of the spread of the disease will prevent it from becoming an epidemic. The two species mosquitoes involved have different behaviours. The Aedes aegypti is an indoor vector which breeds in clean, clear and calm freshwater. The Aedes albopictus is an outdoor breeding mosquito which breeds in stagnant waters. Surveillance of the areas prone to outbreaks is vital. One of the roles of the entomologist is to monitor the vector for resistance to the insecticides. Localities that have been subjected to recurrent outbreaks will have vector which develop resistance to the insecticides used.

Keywords: entomological surveillance, Aedes mosquito, Aqua K-Otherine, ovitraps
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity among Schoolchildren in Kota Kinabalu District: An Overview
Authors: Saelih Haslezah
Published: February 2023

Background: Childhood obesity poses global public health threat and has risen to an alarming level throughout the world. Environmental factors, lifestyle preferences and culture play important roles in the rising prevalence of obesity worldwide. Overweight children are more likely to be overweight or obese in their adulthood and therefore are at greater risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic ailments. Children occasionally become overweight on account of medical or genetic conditions. The main cause relates to poor dietary habits, inactivity or a combination of these factors. These situations also pose an emerging public health issue in Asia.

Keywords: overweight, obesity, schoolchildren, prevalence rate
Honey Dressing in Managing Malignant Fungating Wound: A Case Report
Authors: J. Edith , K. R. Anantha , K. S. Karenita , M. Surayah , M. K. Filzah , H. Farhana , Jiann Wen Yap
Published: February 2023

Background: Honey dressing has been used to treat wounds since thousand years ago, however, it has been vanished of it usage on wounds management. Lately, it resurfaces again and has been used widely by clinicians in managing hard-to-heal ulcers. With the extensive study and research been carried out by scientists, a better understanding on the usage in managing non-healing ulcers has been widely accepted nowadays.

Keywords: medical grade honey, therapeutic honey, malignant fungating wounds, enzymatic debridement
Factors Affecting the Prescribing Pattern of Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs at Outpatient Departments in Government and Private Polyclinics in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Authors: Rahman Md Shamsur , Matanjun David , Hossain Parash M. Tanveer , Shimmi Sadia Choudhury , Tan Tek Song , Arnold Dâ€™Souza Urban John , Kadir Fairrul , Che Noh Che Ismail
Published: February 2023

The main objective of this study was to obtain information regarding the effects of educational and socio-economic status of the patients on the prescribing pattern of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) by the qualified medical personnel in the outpatient departments (OPDs) of two selected polyclinics in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. A total of 200 selected patients (100 from each polyclinic) attending the OPDs were interviewed using a questionnaire. Again data were collected, photocopied and later analyzed. Educated and higher income group of patients mostly attended in a Private Polyclinic (PPC) whereas less educated and lower income group of patients generally attended UMS Polyclinic (UPC). This was reported as a probable reason for the wide variations in the prescribing pattern with respect to pharmacological sub-classes of NSAIDs in the OPDs of two polyclinics. The present results strongly support that probable reason. The number of patients taking NSAIDs before coming to hospital was more in PPC compared to UPC. They were influenced by pharmacists, friends and doctorâ€™s advice given previously. In conclusion, it may be mentioned that overall prescribing pattern of NSAIDs among two polyclinics is rational.
The Pyramid Counteracts Chronic Prenatal Restraint-Stress Effects on the Milestones, Anthropometry, and Body, Brain and Adrenal Gland Weights of Pups in Rats
Authors: George Mitchel Constance , Murthy Dilip Krishna , Mustapha Zainal Arifin
Published: February 2023

Prenatal exposure to chronic stress during critical periods of foetal development produces depression, attention and learning deficits, hormonal imbalances and affects the brain. The effect of prenatal restraint-stress on the postnatal developmental milestones, anthropometric measurements, and the body, brain and adrenal gland weights of the pups were examined and compared with the un-restrained control and the restrained group under the pyramid at postnatal day 10 and 21. Pregnant rats were restrained (9h/day) from gestation day 7 until parturition. Results showed significant delay in the milestones by one day in the restraint control (RC) compared to the unrestrained normal control (NC), while pups of the restrained pyramid (RP) group did not show the delay. Significant decreases in the anthropometric measurements, body and brain weights in RC group were observed at both postnatal days, while the RP group results matched with the NC group. Significant increase in the adrenal weights was found in the RC group compared to NC group and not the RP group. Results suggest prenatal restraint-stress definitely hampers the developmental milestones, anthropometric measurements, and body and brain weights of the young offspring. Results suggest, pyramid environment counteracts and protects the deleterious effects of chronic prenatal stress. Keywords: Anthropometry, Milestones, Prenatal stress, Pyramid
Placental Histopathological Examination in Foetal Sepsis
Authors: Rahim Nur Syahrina , Mohamad Zin Haza Syakirin , Abdullah Salmi , Bahari Norazlah , Thandayathany Vijayaletchumi , Abd Rahman Hayati
Published: February 2023

Intrauterine infection has emerged to be the main and frequent cause of premature delivery and foetal demise. Microorganisms gain entry into the amniotic cavity via ascending route, haematogenous dissemination, retrograde seeding from peritoneal cavity and accidental introduction during invasive procedures. This is a case of foetal loss in utero from a twin pregnancy due to intrauterine sepsis diagnosed through placenta examination. Both maternal and foetal evidences of inflammatory response were demonstrated in the placenta on histology. Microscopically, there were acute chorioamnionitis and villitis as well as abundant gram positive cocci in the foetal blood within placental villous capillaries. The presence of intravascular bacterial organism provides evidence for a conclusive diagnosis of intrauterine sepsis, particularly where the placenta or foetal blood microbiological cultures results are not available or equivocal. More attention should therefore be given when sampling, as pathological evidences of underlying foetal compromise or death could be provided by well-represented placental tissue samples.
Prevalence of Obesity and Metabolic Derangement Among the Rural Population of Kiulu District of Sabah, Malaysia: A Health Screening Programme Findings
Authors: Zarkasi Khairul Anwar , Ramli Nur Zuliani , Mohamed Kistina , Palasuberniam Praneetha , D' Souza Urban John Arnold
Published: February 2023

Malaysia has high prevalence of general and central obesity which can be signified by measurements of BMI and waist circumference respectively. Both parameters are established risk factors and predictors for non-communicable diseases including diabetes and hypertension. A health screening program was conducted in a rural district of Sabah, Malaysia where a total of 42 participants were examined for weight, height, BMI, waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse rate and capillary blood glucose. Mean age of the participants was 52.4 Â± 14.9 years old. General obesity based on BMI was 42.9% while central obesity based on waist circumference was 26.2%. Proportion for hypertension and hyperglycemia were equal at 33.3%. BMI was strongly correlated to waist circumference (r=0.873, p
A Comparative Study on the Safety and Efficacy Parameters of Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus on Renal Transplanted Patients: A Malaysia Experience
Authors: Guad Rhanye Mac , Wan Md Adnan Wan Ahmad , Chik Zamri Bin , Siew Hua Gan
Published: February 2023

Calcineurin inhibitors, cyclosporine and tacrolimus are increasingly becoming part of the standard immunosuppresant therapies for renaltransplanted patients in Malaysia. In this study, the clinical safety and efficacy of cyclosporine and tacrolimus in a Malaysian renal-transplanted population is compared. A fourteen-year retrospective review on all renal-transplanted patients (from September 1991 to September 2015) or patients being followed up at University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) on cyclosporine or tacrolimus regime was conducted. We collected the clinical and laboratory parameters at 3-month, 6-month, 7-month, 8-month, 9-month, 10-month, 11-month, 12- months, 2-year and 3-year following from transplantation for each drug. The mean cyclosporine and tacrolimus trough levels were within the recommended therapeutic ranges (189.16 Â± 69.10 ng/ml and 7.84 Â± 2.18 mg/day respectively). The mean low-density lipoprotein (LDL) was significantly higher at eleven months for tacrolimus compared to cyclosporine. Similarly, the mean total bilirubin level was significantly higher with cyclosporine as compared to tacrolimus between 3 â€“ 9 months post transplantation but did not show any significant difference (p = 0.49). The overall monthly means of serum uric acid levels in patients were also similar, 380 Â± 87 mg/dL (cyclosporine) and 390.96 Â± 95.97 mg/dL (tacrolimus) (p = 0.49). The Kaplan-Meier survival rate is significantly longer (p = 0.03) with cyclosporine-based treatment as compared to tacrolimus. Overall, cyclosporine and tacrolimus did not show any significant difference in terms of safety and efficacy parameters among Malaysian renal-transplanted patients indicating that they may be used interchangeably.
Appropriateness of Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) Prescribing Indication in All Wards of QEH in Accordance to the QEH PPI Prescribing Policy 2015 (APPI-QEH)
Authors: Teo Ai Li Carolyn , Zainal Mohd Idzham bin , Francis Jessica Olivia , Kah Seng Lee , Lee Sheh Fuen Kristine , Liew Ee Siung Jerry
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Widespread over-prescription of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) without an appropriate indication has financial and potentially adverse clinical consequences.
Non-Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension: A Case of Bleeding Gastro-Oesophageal Varices with Non-Cirrhotic Liver Reported in East Malaysia
Authors: Payus Alvin Oliver , Hsiang Justin Leow Wen , Sat Lin Liew , Mohd Noh Malehah
Published: February 2023

Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) is clinically defined as the presence of portal hypertension in the background of non-cirrhotic liver. It is diagnosed by the findings in ultrasound of the hepatobiliary system and also oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGDS) that consistent with that of a portal hypertension, but otherwise has a relatively normal liver function and echotexture. The treatment mainly focuses on primary and secondary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding both pharmacologically like non-selective beta-blockers and octreotide, and non-pharmacologically like endoscopic band ligation of varices and sclerotherapy. In advance cases, sometimes surgery such as Porto-systemic shunt or splenectomy may be required especially in patients with uncontrolled variceal bleeding or with symptomatic hypersplenism. Here we report a case of a young man who presented with upper gastro-intestinal bleeding, which was initially thought from a bleeding ulcer but was found to be secondary to oesophageal and gastro-oesophageal varices. Apart from having mild ascites, he has no other features of portal hypertension. His liver biochemistry and echotexture were also normal. Unfortunately, the patient was lost to follow up while he was still in the early stage of investigating the condition. The purpose of this case report is to share an uncommon occurrence of NCPH in East Malaysia, where liver cirrhosis predominates the aetiology of portal hypertension. Also, to the best of our knowledge, there is a very limited reporting of a similar case in this region.
Prevalence of Retinopathy of Prematurity and Refractive Status in Premature Infants in Sabah Women and Children Hospital (SWACH)
Authors: Linggam Rachel Clarice , Razak Mohammed Danial A. , Abdul Hamid Hanisah , Isa Israk Mohd , Ghani Shuaibah Abdul
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Myopia has been regarded as an important cause of blindness and visual impairment by WHO. Due to higher incidence of myopia in a preterm baby with ROP, early detection and visual rehabilitation need to commence as soon as possible to give the children better quality of life and prevent blindness in this population. To determine the prevalence of ROP and refractive status in premature infants in Sabah Women and Children Hospital, Kota Kinabalu in 2018. To establish the relationship between low BW and GA with the presentation of ROP.
Cost-Effectiveness of Oral Cancer Screening Programmes: A Systematic Review of Design and Outcomes
Authors: Raman Sivaraj , Shafie Asrul Akmal , Cheong Sok Ching , Abraham Mannil Thomas , Tan Bee Ying
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Oral cancer screening programmes have been promoted to be an integral part of national-control strategies. However, such programmes are often not endorsed due to lack of evidence of its cost-effectiveness. This study aims to systematically review studies on the cost-effectiveness of oral cancer screening programmes.
Unilateral Hemihyperhidrosis in a Stroke Patient and Literature Review on Its Clinicoanatomical Correlation
Authors: Ohn May Honey , Ohn Khin Maung , Yin Khin Nyein , Guang Teh Yong , Luen Ng Pey , Bing Chin Li
Published: February 2023

Contralateral hyperhidrosis from the cardiovascular accident has been infrequently described in the stroke literature. The clinical significance and pathogenesis are yet well understood. This is a case of a 60-year-old man who developed excessive sweating of the paralyzed side with a pure division along the midline of the body secondary to a subcortical stroke, which region is supplied by branches of middle cerebral artery territory known as deep perforating lenticulostriate. To the best of our knowledge, a precise clinicoanatomic correlation between hyperhidrosis and subcortical stroke has not been widely reported. In this review, we summarize the existing literature of post-stroke hyperhidrosis to evaluate the correlation between clinical manifestation and its neuroanatomical location. According to the location of the infarction and clinical features, it can be concluded that both tracks en route through the ipsilateral internal capsule, after originating in the opercular cortex before crossing the brain stem and terminal connections with the contralateral thoracic spinal cord. Therefore, the phenomenon of hyperhidrosis in anterior circulation stroke might be postulated as due to the disruption of the sympathoinhibitory pathway that controls sweat glands, similarly like posterior circulation stroke.
Effects of Alcohol towards Quality of Life in the Indigenous Groups of the West Coast Division, Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Joseph Asong , Lasimbang Helen Benedict , James Sandi , Bee Seok Chua
Published: February 2023

Alcohol consumption has consequences for the health and quality of life of individuals and communities. It is a problem among some of the Indigenous groups of Sabah and Sarawak with some of the highest prevalence of risky drinking in Malaysia. Alcohol is considered to be part of the culture of some of these Indigenous groups and a way to maintain the connection to their culture and traditions. However, drinking too much on a single occasion and drinking regularly over time is not a part of the culture. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the positive and negative effects of alcohol on quality of life (QoL) of an Indigenous community of Sabah. A total of 56 villagers from the West Coast Division of Sabah were interviewed in focus group discussions using the diamond dialogue tool. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and revealed that alcohol consumption has both beneficial and adverse effects on health, behavioural, social, economic and psychological factors, depending on the drinking patterns. These harmful results suggest that awareness and harm-reduction programmes may help to empower the Indigenous groups of Sabah to reduce alcohol-related harm.
SLE / Polymyositis Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Seng Wee Cheo  , Ahmad Akbar Rosdina Zamrud , Tee Tat Khoo  , Kuo Zhau Teo  , Siaw Carwen , Qin Jian Low
Published: February 2023

Inflammatory myopathies (IM) is a rare inflammatory muscle disorder, which can be broadly divided into 5 subgroups. The accurate diagnosis of subtype of IM can be challenging due to a diverse presentation of the disease. On the other hand, skeletal muscle complication is common in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in the form of myalgia or myopathy. Inflammatory myopathy is a rare association of SLE and the diagnosis and treatment can be quite challenging. A 43-year-old lady with underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), presented with subacute onset progressively worsening muscle weakness involving upper limbs and lower limbs. Neurological examination showed findings consistent with proximal myopathy, with proximal power of 3/5 and distal power of 4/5. She has elevated creatinine kinase, ALT and AST level. Her myositis-specific autoantibodies were positive for anti-Ku antibodies. Her electromyography showed evidence of active myopathy of the upper and lower limb. Here, we would like to report a case of polymyositis in a patient with SLE.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Blood Donation: A Single-Centred Experience in Sandakan, Sabah
Authors: Ooi Cheng Lee  , Muthalib Nazri Abdul
Published: February 2023

Many factors contribute to the reluctance towards blood donation, but available studies done in Malaysia involving University students does not reflect the knowledge of the public in general. The objective of this study is to determine knowledge, attitude practice towards blood donation among the Sandakan population. A cross-sectional study was employed using an adapted 29-item structured validated questionnaire available in English and Bahasa, consisting of subject’s demography, questions regarding knowledge, attitude, and perception of blood donation. Convenient random sampling was done within the hospital compound, 79 healthy adults consented, and their data were used for the final data analysis, yielding an excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α coefficient = 0.816). Out of all, 74.7% of the respondents had a high level of knowledge, and independent t-tests showed that those who were not married, had tertiary education, donated blood in the past, had a statistically significant higher level of knowledge and 96.2% of respondents have a positive attitude. Some donors (40.6%) donated blood for moral satisfaction, and only a quarter (25%) experienced adverse events. Fear of pain, needle, fainting was the highest reason for reluctance in blood donation (36.2% of non-donors), followed by self-perception of being medically unfit to donate (31.9% of non-donors). Even though the sampled population in Sandakan showed an adequate level of knowledge as well as a positive attitude towards blood donation, blood product shortage is still present. This study may contribute by serving as an educational platform for awareness and education to improve the number of blood donors.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Experience in District General Hospital from January 2018 – October 2019
Authors: Fahkrul Radzi Ahmad Zubir  , Syafiq Husni
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard treatment for gallstones. However, to avoid serious biliovascular injury, conversion is advocated for distorted anatomy at the Calot’s triangle. This study aimed to review our experience handling elective LC cases, (simple and difficult) as a district general hospital.
Irrational Use of Drugs
Authors: Md. Shamsur Rahman  , David Matanjun  , Urban John Arnold D’souza  , Wan Salman Wan Saudi  , Fairrul Kadir  , Tan Teck Song  , Mohd. Hijaz Mohd. Sani
Published: February 2023

Irrational use of drugs could be detrimental issues in the practices of healthcare communities. This problem arises either because of the wrong prescription or inappropriate self-medication. Faulty prescribing practices and incorrect self-medication will lead to an ineffective treatment regime. Still, they can also be unsafe as these may exacerbate or prolong the illness and distress the patients. In turn, these will incur unnecessary treatment costs. The most typical issues in the irrational use of drugs are the patient’s lack of information about the medicine and inadequate proper consultation from physicians. Lack of regulation in the appropriate use and supply of drugs by the relevant enforcement agencies could also be the problem in the irrational use of drugs. Ulceration and inflammation due to the irrational use of NSAIDs, antibiotics, and unhealthy lifestyle may contribute to the novel therapeutic strategy challenges. The ability to purchase the drugs without a doctor’s prescription of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was also the landmark event that became the most widely used medications for the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. Inadequate knowledge from both drug providers and patients may contribute to the most recognized influential factors in the irrational use of drugs in various countries. The recommendation should introduce an appropriate educational intervention that can be designed to promote rational prescribing. Proper regulation on prescription practices by policymakers and physicians could be the way to ensure the standard of rational usage of drugs have compliant with the healthcare communities.
ĐÁNH GIÁ KẾT QUẢ ĐIỀU TRỊ UNG THƯ TUYẾN GIÁP KHÔNG BIỆT HÓA TẠI BỆNH VIỆN K
Authors: Công Tín Nguyễn , Thị Vân Thanh Hàn
Published: February 2023

Mục tiêu: đánh giá kết quả điều trị ung thư tuyến giáp không biệt hóa tại bệnh viện K. Phương pháp: nghiên cứu hồi cứu trên 31 bệnh nhân ung thư tuyến giáp thể không biệt hóa được điều trị tại bệnh viện k từ 1/2011 - 12/2021. Kết quả: trung vị thời gian sống thêm là 6,9 tháng, tỷ lệ sống thêm toàn bộ 2 năm đạt 12,1%. Thời gian sống thêm có sự khác biệt rõ giữa các yếu tố: Giai đoạn IVA là 33,3% và giai đoạn IVB, IVC tất cả đều tử vong, p = 0,00; Nhóm BN được phẫu thuật 16,6% và nhóm BN không phẫu thuật đều tử vong, p = 0,00; Kích thước u < 6cm là 27,8% và u ≥ 6cm đều tử vong, p = 0,009; không di căn hạch là 33,3% và có di căn hạch đều tử vong, p = 0,00; Nữ giới là 18,1% và nam giới đều tử vong, p = 0,00; Phẫu thuật + hóa xạ trị cho tỷ lệ sống thêm tốt nhất với 21,8%, p = 0,00. Kết luận: tỷ lệ sống sót chung của bệnh nhân ung thư tuyến giáp thể không biệt hóa kém. Điều trị đa mô thức giúp cải thiện thời gian sống thêm. Các yếu tố nam giới, u ≥ 6cm, không phẫu thuật được, di căn hạch cổ là các yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến thời gian sống thêm.
ĐẶC ĐIỂM TÌNH TRẠNG DINH DƯỠNG CỦA TRẺ TỪ 7 ĐẾN 10 TUỔI TẠI MỘT SỐ TRƯỜNG TIỂU HỌC, HUYỆN TIỀN HẢI, TỈNH THÁI BÌNH
Authors: Hữu Ngự Nguyễn , Hồng Sơn Trương , Việt Anh Lê
Published: February 2023

Mục tiêu: Mô tả tình trạng dinh dưỡng của trẻ từ 7 đến 10 tuổi tại một số trường tiểu học, huyện Tiền Hải, tỉnh Thái Bình. Phương pháp nghiên cứu: nghiên cứu mô tả cắt ngang trên 848 trẻ từ 7 đến 10 tuổi tại huyện Tiền Hải, tỉnh Thái Bình. Kết quả: Cân nặng và chiều cao trung bình của trẻ tại địa điểm nghiên cứu lần lượt là 27,2±6,9kg và 129±8,5cm. Cân nặng trung bình theo độ tuổi từ 7 đến 10 tuổi của trẻ tại địa điểm nghiên cứu lần lượt là 22,4kg, 25,8kg, 29kg và 32,1kg. Chiều cao trung bình theo độ tuổi từ 7 đến 10 tuổi của trẻ tại địa điểm nghiên cứu lần lượt là 121,0cm, 126,2cm, 132,0cm, và 137,4cm. Tỷ lệ suy dinh dưỡng thấp còi là 3,4%, suy đinh dưỡng nhẹ cân là 8,7% và suy dinh dưỡng gầy còm là 7,1%.
NGHIÊN CỨU TÌNH TRẠNG DINH DƯỠNG CỦA BỆNH NHI MẮC BỆNH TIM BẨM SINH ĐƯỢC ĐIỀU TRỊ PHẪU THUẬT TẠI BỆNH VIỆN TIM HÀ NỘI NĂM 2021
Authors: Minh An Nguyễn , Thị Lệ Thủy Nguyễn
Published: February 2023

Mục tiêu nghiên cứu: Nghiên cứu tình trạng dinh dưỡng của bệnh nhi mắc bệnh tim bẩm sinh được điều trị tại bệnh viện tim Hà Nội năm 2021. Phương pháp nghiên cứu: Mô tả cắt ngang 105 bệnh nhi mắc bệnh tim bẩm sinh được điều trị tại bệnh viện Tim Hà Nội năm 2021. Kết quả nghiên cứu: Tuổi thường gặp nhất trong nghiên cứu là < 6 tháng tuổi (chiếm 42,9%); Tỷ lệ bệnh nhân Nam là 48,6% và Nữ là 51,4%.; Chẩn đoán bệnh tim bẩm sinh: Thông liên nhĩ 5,7%, thông liên thất 45,7%, còn ống động mạch chủ 12,4%, Hẹp động mạch phổi 7,6%, tứ chứng Fallot 17,1%, phối hợp nhiều dị tật 11,4%; Tình trạng dinh dưỡng của bệnh nhi: Bình thường 45,7%, suy dinh dưỡng 54,3%; Phân loại tình trạng suy dinh dưỡng: Suy dinh dưỡng cấp chiếm 15,2%, suy dinh dưỡng mạn 22,9% và suy dinh dưỡng mạn tiến triển chiếm 16,2%. Phân mức độ duy dinh dưỡng: Suy dinh dưỡng nhẹ 26,7%, suy dinh dưỡng trung bình 17,1% suy dinh dưỡng nặng 10,5 %. Kết luận: Nghiên cứu 105 bệnh nhi mắc bệnh tim bẩm sinh điều trị tại bệnh viện Tim Hà Nội cho thấy, tỷ lệ suy dinh dưỡng là 54,3%, trong đó, suy dinh dưỡng cấp chiếm 15,2%, suy dinh dưỡng mạn 22,9% và suy dinh dưỡng mạn tiến triển chiếm 16,2%.
UNG THƯ BIỂU MÔ TẾ BÀO LỚN THẦN KINH NỘI TIẾT TRUNG THẤT GIỮA - TỔNG QUAN TÀI LIỆU VÀ BÁO CÁO CA BỆNH
Authors: Cung Văn Công
Published: February 2023

Phân loại của TCYTTG năm 2015 (cập nhật 2021), u thần kinh nội tiết bao gồm: Ung thư biểu mô tế bào nhỏ (biến thể hỗn hợp tế bào nhỏ); Ung thư biểu mô tế bào lớn thần kinh nội tiết (biến thể hỗn hợp tế bào lớn); U carcinoid (điển hình và không điển hình); Tổn thương tiền xâm nhập (quá sản tế bào thần kinh nội tiết phổi lan toả). Trước đây, ung thư biểu mô tế bào lớn thần kinh nội tiết được xếp vào nhóm ung thư tế bào lớn; đây là loại ung thư có độ ác tính cao; chẩn đoán cần dựa vào giải phẫu bệnh và nhuộm hoá mô miễn dịch; điều trị gặp rất nhiều khó khăn và hiện vẫn chưa có phác đồ đa mô thức chuẩn; tỷ lệ tử vong của bệnh ở mức cao. Các khối u thần kinh nội tiết có thể gặp ở bất kỳ vị trí nào của lồng ngực, song việc xuất hiện ở trung thất giữa là rất hiếm. Chúng tôi báo cáo ca bệnh ung thư biểu mô tế bào lớn thần kinh nội tiết ở trung thất giữa, được chẩn đoán xác định và điều trị tại bệnh viện phổi Trung ương. Phần bàn luận xem xét tình trạng hiện tại về tiêu chuẩn chẩn đoán và điều trị căn bệnh này, cập nhật những tiến bộ gần đây trong hiểu biết về sinh bệnh học cơ bản và các cơ hội để nâng cao phương pháp điều trị cho người bệnh.