bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Modifiable Factors Associated with Progression to Irreversible Disability in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors:   MPR Service Regional Military University Hospital (HMRU) of Oran, Algeria, Layadi K
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the leading cause of acquired motor disability in young adults. The increase in disability follows the progression of the disease and imposes on those affected a permanent multidimensional handicap. The identification of the factors associated with the evolution towards an irreversible handicap is important for an adequate therapeutic management. Objective: Identify the non-modifiable factors associated with progression to irreversible disability in patients with MS. Material and Methods: This is a prospective collection study that was carried out in the physical medicine and rehabilitation departments of the University Hospital of Oran and the HMRU of Oran, between January 2017 and December 2019. For the main analysis, we retained an EDSS score (Expanded Disability Status Scale) for the patient if he had the same functional status during the last six months. Results/Discussion: This study included 103 MS cases, including 72 women and 31 men, with a mean age at onset of symptoms of 31.83 years and a mean EDSS of 5.12 ± 1.97. The progression of the disability assessed by the EDSS scale is related to: male gender, age at advanced onset and progressive form of MS. we did not find a correlation between the severity of the handicap and the place of birth and/or residence. Our results are unanimous in the literature for certain parameters, and the same is not true for others. Conclusion: Non-modifiable factors in MS, such as age, gender and place of birth and/or residence, are important predictors of disability and should alert the clinician to appropriate and specific management even at an early stage of the disease.
Pilot Study-Estimated VO2max via Modified Harvard Step Test (MHST) in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Patients Undergoing Pre-Op Rehabilitation
Authors:   Sports Medicine Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Hospital Tuanku Jaafar Seremban, Malaysia, Sugumar Lavinen Kumar , Ebrahim Rozaiman ,   Sports Medicine Unit, Department of Orthopaedics, Hospital Tuanku Jaafar Seremban, Malaysia
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury ranging from partial to full thickness tear causes much dysfunction physically and psychologically. It affects both daily & sporting activities with potential of creating long term complications such as post-traumatic osteoarthritis of knee, functional limitations, increase in body mass index (BMI) and loss of cardiorespiratory fitness. Cardiorespiratory fitness is an important indicator for functional and fitness capacity and VO2max is used to measure cardiorespiratory fitness. VO2max is the maximum rate of oxygen consumption during a vigorous exercise. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing is usually done on a treadmill with gaseous exchange system, a process that is time consuming, expensive and difficult to assess and not available in our public health setting. Modified Harvard step test is easy to do, cost friendly and allows mass testing to measure cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2max) however there are inadequate data on ACL injury and its influence on cardiorespiratory fitness using modified Harvard step test. Method: A prospective study was done using patients attending Sports Medicine Gym Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar 2023 and data from 20 patients who were undergoing pre-ACL reconstruction rehabilitation were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups according to post trauma duration; (<6 months of injury and rehabilitation and >6 months injury and rehabilitation). Patients were required to do modified Harvard step test and translated into VO2max scores. Anthropometric data were also taken from patients. Results: The mean age for our study is 21.9±4.3 years. The mean VO2max for the entire participant was 43.2ml/kg/min. Mean VO2max for groups <6 months injury rehabilitation and >6 months injury rehabilitation was at 35.4±1.8 ml/kg/min and 49.0± 5.8ml/kg/min respectively. We report difference in both groups VO2max Conclusion: Cardiorespiratory fitness is often reduced during earlier phase of injury due to inability to perform aerobic exercises. Progressive rehabilitation can improve cardiorespiratory fitness, aid in patients return to sports and reduces morbidity post operatively. Modified Harvard step test is a reliable and cost-effective method to test VO2max. It is also important to increase cardiorespiratory fitness to maintain healthy BMI.
A Duodenal Ectasia Developed Upstream of a Ladd Adhesion and a Tubular Cholecystoduodenal Fistula: An Unusual Revealing Aspect of an Incomplete Common Mesentery
Authors:   In First Position, Resident Physician in Visceral Surgery at the Military Hospital Moulay Ismail of Meknes, Morocco, Nizar Errabi Mohammed , Abdelkrim Choho ,   Professor of Advanced Studies in Visceral Surgery at the Military Hospital Moulay Ismail of Meknes, Morocco, Mohamed Menfaa ,   Assistant professor in visceral surgery in the Military Hospital Moulay Ismail of Meknes, Morocco, Fouad Sakit ,   Assistant professor in visceral surgery in the Military Hospital Moulay Ismail of Meknes, Morocco
Published: October 2024

The incomplete common mesentery results from a 180° rotation stop of the primitive umbilical loop. This rotation defect is most often associated with the emergence of adhesions at the attachment sites, which usually lead to severe neonatal obstructions. The entire small intestine is supported by the superior mesenteric arterial axis with a very short root, hence the high risk of volvulus and mesenteric infarction. We report an unprecedented case observed in the General Surgery Department at Moulay Ismail Military Hospital in Meknes, Morocco. The case involves a 24-year-old individual who was referred for further management of epigastralgia and low-volume hematemesis reported during a repeated vomiting episode. This case will be presented, labeled, and discussed in relation to the literature.
Early Surgery and High Dose Steroids in Treating Patients with Indirect Traumatic Optic Neuropathy: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors:   Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Sta. Cruz, Manila, Philippines, Emmanuel Y Custodio John
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Optic nerve injury is a devastating cause of permanent visual loss after blunt or penetrating injury occurring in up to 7% of head trauma cases. No single treatment strategy and timing of intervention has proved optimal. Timely and appropriate management is key to improving visual outcomes. We compared whether immediate surgical decompression or steroids would lead to improvement of visual outcomes in individuals with indirect traumatic optic neuropathy. Methods: We searched from several online databases and included studies of patients with direct Optic nerve injury, those who received combined treatment with surgery and steroids, and those with delayed initiation of treatment were excluded. Results: The final search yielded eleven eligible studies. Both interventions showed similar results in improvement of visual function (RR 2.35, 95% CI 0.87 to 6.34, p=0.09, I2 0%). Both early and late intervention also showed similar results in improvement of visual function (RR 1.72, 95% CI 0.89 to 3.35, p=0.11, I2 61%). Among patients who underwent early surgical decompression, the rate of visual acuity improvement was 73% with those who underwent transcranial surgery and 69% with those who underwent endoscopic surgery. Conclusion: This study shows that immediate surgical decompression and early high dose steroid administration are equally effective in improving visual function. Patients with no light perception (NLP) and light perception (LP) pre treatment resulted to better visual improvement with steroids while those with counting fingers (CF) and more than CF pre treatment, resulted to better visual improvement with surgical decompression.
Clinical Characteristics Analysis of 9 Cases COVID-19 Patients Receiving Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine: A Retrospective Study
Authors:   Clinical Research Laboratory, Department of Clinical Examination, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, PR China, Cao Chengjian , Che Deya ,   Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zigong First People’s Hospital, Zigong, PR China, Shao Fuqiang ,   Zigong Academy of Medical Sciences, Zigong First People’s Hospital; Zigong, PR China
Published: October 2024

Recently 2019-nCov is still spreading around the world, vaccines have been developed but still no specific medicine so far, so here we want to provide a potential and complementary plan to COVID-19 or even other epidemic diseases. So, we hypothesized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) may have positive effect on cure of COVID-19. Here we report 9 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in our hospital, including 8 mild-type and 1 severe-type. Besides antiviral and other supportive treatment (Western Medicine, WM), all of them received Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) at the same time, and we collected the epidemiological, demographic, clinical and laboratory data of the patients and analyzed the outcome. After treatment by integration of WM and TCM, the pulmonary inflammations are gradually absorbed and finally disappeared, and other laboratory tests turned to normal (hs-CRP, T lymphocytes, CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T, etc.). All patients (including the severe type) have been discharged from the hospital, and the shortest course of treatment is only 12 days. Together with the fact that other parts of China using TCM, we speculate TCM might play an encouraging role in this process and may be an adjuvant and complementary therapy of COVID-19, combined with the application of defeating SARS, which may bring a meaningful reference to COVID-19 or even other epidemic diseases’ treatment worldwide, in spite of the efficacy and definite conclusions still need further study.
Functional Asymmetry of the Brain: An Innovative Test for LeftHandedness and Leftness in Basic Neuroscience Research and Neurorehabilitation
Authors:   Psychiatric Research Group of the Federal State Institution “Ministerial Research Center of Neurosurgery named after NN Burdenko” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, OS Zaitsev , IV Reverchuk ,   Department of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia, MI Kamenetskaya ,   Psychiatric Research Group of the Federal State Institution “Ministerial Research Center of Neurosurgery named after NN Burdenko” of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Fast and high-quality detection of leftyness can be very informative in pedagogy, professional selection, medicine. To do this, it is necessary to develop a test that should be informative, simple, concise, quick to conduct and calculate, not requiring special equipment, combining questions and tasks, revealing mainly persistent and unambiguous manifestations of leftyness in various aspects such as biographical, motor, sensory, mental ones. Goal: to develop a universal test that provides reliable and rapid detection of signs of leftyness in healthy and sick subjects. Materials and Methods: according to the developed protocol for leftyness detecting, consisting of 13 questions and samples, 210 people were studied, including 100 healthy persons and 110 patients randomly selected during neuropsychiatric or neuropsychological examination. Results: test providing and protocol completion were fast, easily accessible both in the study of healthy and patients. When testing the primary protocol, it was found that: a) patients older than 30 years were less likely to report the presence of signs of leftyness, most of them preferred the right hand; b) women, compared with men, were more likely to report the presence of prophetic dreams and other variants of foresight; c) familial leftyness was more often found in patients compared with healthy persons d) according to most of the studied signes (7 out of 13), the largest proportion of patients with leftyness was found in patients with functional mental illnesses; e) significant correlations were found between biographical leftyness and left-handedness, as well as between left-handedness and ear leftyness. Based on the conducted research, a new improved protocol of test for the express detection of signs of leftyness (TEDSL) was created. Conclusion: The modified TEDSL protocol developed as a result of this work is ready for use in further studies of various contingents of healthy and patients with various psychopathological symptoms.
Multiple Traumatic Fat Embolism with Aortic Dissection III A Case Report
Authors:   Department of ICU, Suizhou Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Suizhou, Hubei, China, Hua Hu Hui , Wang Wenguo ,   Department of ICU, Suizhou Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Suizhou, Hubei, China, Huang Yuqing ,   Department of ICU, Suizhou Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Suizhou, Hubei, China, Wang Xiaocong ,   Department of ICU, Suizhou Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Suizhou, Hubei, China
Published: October 2024

Multiple trauma refers to the severe injury of multiple body parts caused by a single injury factor, occurring simultaneously or consecutively. This condition leads to numerous tissue injuries, significant organ damage, and high mortality rates. Fat embolism syndrome, on the other hand, is a clinical condition marked by the presence of fat droplets in the bloodstream, resulting in a range of symptoms and signs. The most prevalent manifestations include ecchymotic rash, respiratory distress, and neurological dysfunction. In intensive care units (ICUs), routine CT scans are essential, particularly chest CTs, which often reveal a diffuse distribution of ground glass opacity shadows. In more extensive cases, “snowstorm”-like changes may be observed. Traumatic aortic injuries frequently manifest as scissor force injuries at the aortic isthmus, with the majority of cases occurring in this region. However, other aortic injuries typically occur at the aortic hiatus and the origins of major vessels. Instances where both fat embolism and traumatic aortic dissection III occur concurrently due to multiple trauma are exceptionally rare.
Morning Glory Syndrome
Authors:   Departement of Ophtalmology, Hospital Center of Nouakchott, Mauritania, Adbellahi Cheikh Ahmed Mohamed , Sidi Cheikh Sidi ,   Departement of Ophtalmology, Hospital Center of Nouakchott, Mauritania, Jiddou Sidi Baba Mohamed ,   Departement of Ophtalmology, Hospital Center of Nouakchott, Mauritania
Published: October 2024

Morning glory syndrome is a birth defect that affects the optic nerve of the eye. The morning glory syndrome (MGS) or morning glory disc anomaly was named by Kindler in 1970 because of its resemblance to the morning glory flower. Morning glory syndrome can be associated with midline cranial defects and abnormal carotid circulation. We report the case of a 10-year-old adolescent, who was brought by his parents for a profound bilateral visual acuity decrease since birth. Ophthalmic examination revealed bilateral morning glory syndrome.
COVID-19 Vaccinations and Menstrual Cycle Alteration
Authors:   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, Hussain Sadique , Chaturvedi Varunesh ,   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, Singh Mansi ,   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, Kumari Priya ,   School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, Khatri Himanshi ,   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Nursing, Vivekanand Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
Published: October 2024

The rapid development of safe and effective vaccines against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been a triumph of medical sciences, but vaccines only work if people take them. COVID-19 vaccination may be associated with a change in menstrual cycle length following vaccination. Although there is extensive evidence that COVID-19 vaccination does not affect fertility, misinformation is that it could have been a major source of vaccine hesitancy among young women. As the vaccination program was rolled out to younger age groups, some people noticed menstrual changes after the COVID-19 vaccination, and many members of the public found these reports concerning. The research was needed to generate robust data to inform healthcare professionals and the public about these potential side effects. Menstrual changes have been reported in association with a variety of vaccines, including those against pathogens other than severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), so this work aims to describe SARS-CoV-2 infection and the menstrual cycle changes because of it.
Perceived the Utilization and Frequency of Hormonal Contraceptives among Women (15-45) Years in Abia State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Nursing Sciences, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria, OP Emeonye , Odochi Nwakanma ,   School of Midwifery Amachara Nsd, Ministry of Health Umuahia Abia State, Nigeria, Cosmas Ezeji ,   Department of public health, David Umehi Sciences uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, Madukaibeya Nwatu ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria, RO Nwokoro ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Abia State University Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
Published: October 2024

Hormonal contraceptives are synthetic oestrogen and/or progesterone administered orally, parenterally or by implants. they suppresses ovulation, thickening cervical mucus thereby preventing sperm penetration, reducing sperm transport along the genital tract and making the endometrium unsuitable for implantation and are highly effective (0.1-0.8 pregnancies/100 women during the first year of use) within 12 hours of administration. The researcher worked on Perceive the Utilization and Frequency Hormonal Contraceptives Among Women (15-45) Years in Abia State. Objectives: To access holistic frequency and usage of hormonal contraceptives among women (15-45) years in Abia State. Methodology: The researcher adopted a cross sectional descriptive study for this research. Six Local Government Area out of 17 LGAs of the state were chosen using simple random sampling and also adopted balloting method to select the women who participated in the chosen communities of the selected six LGAs. Result: 225(42.9%) used oral contraceptives, injectable, 155(29.5%), implant while 58(11%), other types of hormonal contraceptives. 134(25.5%) have used hormonal contraceptives for 2 months to 1 year. 140(26.7%) for 2 years to 5 years, 65(12.4%) for 6 years to 10 years, 79(15%) indicated ‘Others” while 107(20.4%) did not supply the information. Conclusion: Hormonal contraceptives intake by women and young girls is on increase. Some ladies started taking hormonal contraceptives as early as thirteen years till the middle age or the go into menopause. All the hormonal methods are consumed but in oral method is more acceptable by the women.
Continuity in Antenatal Care: Exploring Perceptions of Care and Emotional Experiences of Low-Risk Women
Authors:   Social Psychologist and Public Health Researcher Massey University, Canterbury, England, UK, Grierson Shelley
Published: October 2024

Perspectives and value systems inform our views of antenatal care and childbirth, influencing how they are understood and how care is organised. Professional, academic, institutional and cultural views all influence what we consider maternity care to be, how it should be delivered, and how experiences and outcomes associated with it are measured. The objective of this study was to analyse women's lived experiences of antenatal care within NHS England during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, I sought to understand how the continuity of the care women received influenced women’s experiences, with the aim of identifying areas for improvement with respect to well-being and satisfaction with care. I conducted semi-structured interviews with 6 women who had given birth up to 24 months prior. I analysed transcribed texts using a reflexive thematic approach, undertaken through a social constructionist lens. I developed three themes in the analysis. These were: the impacts of poor communication, the impacts of not being heard, and fear of the unknown. Participants emphasised the need for a person-centred care model and more specifically, a midwife-led continuity of care model. Early antenatal care and late antenatal care were identified as two critical periods of care when women require the greatest levels of advocacy and support. Based on this analysis, the NHS maternity framework could make improvements to information organisation and sharing, the encouragement of active patient participation in care, and the promotion of shared decision-making. Greater attention to how holistic perspectives and medical perspectives could be blended to broaden understandings of what successful birth experiences could be, is required to validate women's antenatal needs and subsequently improve maternity care outcomes.
A Solitary/Multiple Brain Lesions with an Unanticipated Diagnosis and a Therapeutic Challenges
Authors:   K S Hegde Medical Academy, Neurosurgery, Mangalore, India, Nagappa Vivek
Published: October 2024

Brain metastases are an increasing challenge in modern oncology. Despite recent advances in the management of cancer patients, Brain Metastases are still a disastrous complication with an immense impact on overall survival and also on the quality of life of patients.
Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Versus Point-of-Care Arterial Duplex Ultrasound (DUS) in Early Detection and Diagnosis of Diabetic Foot Ischemia in Hemodialysis Unit
Authors:   The Department of Renal Medicine, Directorate General of health services, Muscat, Oman, Tris Ahmed A
Published: October 2024

Background: Diabetes is a widespread noncommunicable disease affecting an estimated 463 million adults worldwide in 2019 and will affect 700 million by 2045. Diabetic foot lesions remain a major cause of morbidity in patients with renal failure, especially those on dialysis. Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) may inaccurately assess lower extremity perfusion in patients with highly calcified, no compressible tibial arteries. focused Arterial duplex ultrasound (DUS) of the distal anterior and posterior tibial arteries at the ankle can be readily learnt by novices (nurse/physician) and performed rapidly and accurately for early diagnosis and referral.
Peritoneal Dialysis in Neonatal Diabetes Presenting With Severe Dka: A Case Report
Authors:   Medical Student, NUST, Oman, Mukhaini Fatma S
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Neonatal diabetes is a rare genetic disease characterized by severe, persistent hyperglycemia requiring treatment.
The Benefits of Incorporating Vegetables and Fruits Flours into Grain-Based Foods
Authors:   Agriculture Academy, Institute of Cryobiology and Food Technology, Sofia, Bulgaria, Lazova-Borisova Iliana
Published: October 2024

A study of food losses (flours) from vegetables and fruits obtained from production of juices from purple carrot, purple yams and red apple was conducted. The vegetables and fruits are with very good quality and good price. They are dried in a heat pump dryer, at an initial temperature of 45 ° C and circulating air with an initial moisture content of 20% at constant (5.6 m/s) and variable speed, in a thin layer, with transversely oriented air flow relative to the product layer.
A Socio-ethical Evaluation of the Challenges and Prospects of Religion in Nation Building Process in Nigeria
Authors: Emuze Sunday Omorogbe , Obasola Kehinde Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

Religion is an element that promotes integrated development by providing both social and ethical measures which help in bringing about a better nation. In this regard, religion and nation building are inseparable. However, studies showed that there exist social and ethical bottlenecks such as poor policy formulation, lack of good governance, corruption, religious intolerance, perversion of justice, to mention a few which hinder the nation building in Nigeria. This paper therefore, investigated the challenges of Nation Building in Nigeria through the socio-ethical lens. The paper adopted the qualitative phenomenological methodology which focuses on the experiences of the people. The study found out that religion helps in inculcating ethical standards like sincerity, honesty, tolerance, respect for one another, peaceful coexistence and selfless service, etc. which are fundamental for nation building. The paper concludes that religion is a persuasive factor for nation building because it regulates human‟s social behaviour while also encouraging good relationship among people in the society. It is therefore, recommended that religious leaders should encourage their members to live by the dictates of their faith so as to engender nation building in Nigeria.
WHY TEACHERS LEAVE TEACHING: THE CASE OF PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN TURKEY
Authors: Çakır Aysel , Er Emre , Korumaz Mithat
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to uncover the reasons behind private school teachers leaving the profession. The research design was determined as a phenomenological method. For this purpose, we conducted interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire consisting of questions with 9 teachers who have either left the profession or intend to leave. We decided on nine participants for the study via the snowball sampling method. The data was obtained through face-to-face interviews and were analyzed using content analysis. As a result of the analysis, we revealed four main themes “profession-specific experiences”, “experiences in private educational institutions”, “opportunities”, and “recommendations”. At the end of the study, we concluded that the most significant reasons for teachers working in private educational institutions to leave the profession were the transformation of the profession, workload, and low salaries. We recommend improving the working conditions in private schools to prevent teachers from leaving the profession.
Impacts of Breed, Production System and Feeding Type on Nutritional, Organoleptic Characteristics and Oxidative Status on Beef Cattle in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Youmbi Kammogne Ivana Gilberte Cyrielle  , Célestin Godwe , Djeunga Nana Hugues , Ndjengue Mindang Elisabeth Louise  , Edoun Ebouel Ferdinand Lanvin  , Magloire Feugang, Jean , Djiogue Sefirin
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of breed, production system, and feeding type on meat quality, evaluating organoleptic and physicochemical traits and antioxidant status across selected local cattle breeds.
Materials and Methods: The study was carried out on sirloin and blood samples taken in slaughterhouses from the hot carcass of male cattle, divided according to breed, production system and type of feed. The nutritional, organoleptic characteristics and oxidative status was assessed.
Findings: The results revealed that meat from Goudali breed raised in a sedentary system exhibited significantly lower tenderness (p<.) and higher lipid (p<.) and protein (p<.) contents. Additionally, the meat displayed notably lower pH (p=.), reduced cortisol (p<.), and lower catalase (p<.), TAC (p<.), and FRAP (p=.) activities. Consumers preferred the meat of the White Fulani breed due to its color (p<.). In transhumant system, the meat was richer in dry matter (p=.), lipids (p<.), and fibres (p=.), while the sedentary system resulted in more tender (p=.) and red-dark colored meat (p<.), which consumers favored. Meat from cows under commercial feed were preferred by consumers (p<.) compared to grass-fed cows, exhibiting significantly higher lipid (p<.) and protein (p<.) levels as well as intense color (p=.). However, meat from grass-fed cows had significantly higher fibre content (p<.), tenderness (p<.), better taste (p=.), juiciness (p=.), and higher catalase (p=.) and TAC (p<.) activities.
Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: These findings underscore the importance of considering breed, production system, and feeding type when conserving, selecting, or improving beef breeds for both meat quantity and quality.
Fatwa Institutions in Malaysia: Navigating Current Challenges and Changes
Authors: Rosidi Mohd Harifadilah
Published: October 2024

The fatwa institutions in Malaysia play a crucial role in interpreting Islamic law and guiding the Muslim community. However, these institutions face various modern challenges affecting their effectiveness and relevance. This article explores the primary obstacles encountered by Malaysia’s fatwa institutions, including the conflict between traditional jurisprudence and contemporary societal issues, the impact of technological advancements, and the demand for increased transparency and accountability. It also considers how these institutions are adapting to the evolving socio-political landscape and the implications for their authority and legitimacy. This study aims to provide insights into how fatwa institutions can address these challenges while upholding their core principles by analysing recent developments. The findings offer valuable perspectives for policymakers, religious scholars, and the wider community, helping them understand and address the complex issues faced by Malaysia’s fatwa institutions in the 21st century.
Exploring Malaysian ESL Students’ Unguided Written Reflections of an Online Poetry Engagement Activity
Authors: Razali Nazarul Azali , Mohamad Nor Atifah , Aziz Ameiruel Azwan Ab , Juned Amirah Mohd , Sharif Nurshaza Farah Md , Zabidin Nursyafiqah , Arshad Aqilah
Published: October 2024

Self-reflection has become a popular practice in teaching and learning as it provides a space for self-assessment with numerous benefits to both learners and educators. As part of their Creative Writing course requirement, a group of Malaysian ESL students participated in an online poetry engagement activity. While a traditional instructor observation method was employed for grading students’ performances, little is known about the utilisation and integration of professional and positive attitudes toward this task from students’ perspectives. The purpose of this case study was to utilise unguided written reflections to shed light on matters of concern and importance from the students’ perspective and describe experiences related to the tasks’ intended learning outcomes. Purposive sampling was used to recruit study participants who met the sampling criteria. This approach can enhance the depth and richness of the data collected, as it ensures that the gathered are particularly relevant to the research questions. They were invited to write and submit an unguided self-reflection of the online poetry engagement activity. Inductive thematic analysis was then used to organise and elicit meaning from the collected data. Results indicate that the unguided reflections emulated academic writing convention with introductory statements at the beginning, descriptions and explanations of experiences as the body of writing, and ended with gratifications. The findings also indicated the participants’ achievements of the ethics and professional learning outcome. The findings suggest the inclusion of reflective writing for course tutors and programme administrators to improve assessment quality and reliability, especially for learning outcomes that focus on applying and developing generic skills.
PERFIL EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DA TUBERCULOSE NA POPULAÇÃO IDOSA NO ESTADO DO ACRE
Authors: Lima Viliane de Quadros Fernandes , E Silva Astride de Moura , Da Silva Marcelia Alexandrina Chaves , Onofre Priscila Barbosa , Machado Tassia Haeli Maia , Silva Lima da Costa Ruth
Published: October 2024

A tuberculose é uma doença infecciosa causada pela bactéria Mycobacterium tuberculosis e tem um impacto particularmente preocupante na população idosa, devido à sua maior vulnerabilidade a doenças e à possibilidade de complicações de saúde adicionais. Objetivo: Evidenciar o perfil epidemiológico da tuberculose na população idosa no estado do Acre. Método: Trata-se de um estudo transversal, retrospectivo, exploratório, de abordagem quantitativa, com coleta de dados secundários, extraídos no Departamento de Informações do SUS/DATASUS. Resultados: No período analisado ocorreram 341 casos de tuberculose em idosos no estado do Acre. A maioria ocorreu na faixa etária de 60-64 anos (33%), sendo predominante no sexo masculino (66%), da raça/cor da pele parda (79%) e com ensino fundamental incompleto (40%). A maior parte das notificações foi de casos novos (93,3%), com predominância da forma clínica pulmonar (89,0%). Aproximadamente metade dos pacientes não realizou tratamento diretamente observado (TDO) (48%), enquanto 44% realizaram o TDO. Em termos de evolução, a maioria evoluiu para a cura (70%). No entanto, houve uma taxa de mortalidade significativa, com 8% dos óbitos atribuídos à tuberculose e 5% a outras causas. Conclusão: os achados apontam para a necessidade de aprimorar as estratégias de enfrentamento da tuberculose na população idosa, como o diagnóstico precoce, tratamento adequado e acompanhamento rigoroso, além de realizar novos estudos para abordar a vulnerabilidade desta faixa etária.
Leveraging Data Analytics for Financial Stability: A Blueprint for Sustaining SMEs in Economically Distressed Regions of the U.S.
Authors: Campbell Jodian , Oyinloye Paul
Published: October 2024

Purpose: Our research explores how data analytics can empower small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in economically distressed regions of the U.S. by improving financial decision-making, operational efficiency, and risk mitigation. The study aims to provide a blueprint for leveraging data-driven insights to ensure long-term financial stability and economic growth in underserved areas, particularly in the Midwest and Southern states.
Methodology: The study employs a case-study approach to analyze the real-world applications of data analytics platforms in SMEs within economically distressed regions. It uses statistical analysis to compare the performance of businesses that have adopted data analytics tools with those relying on traditional methods. The methodology also includes the collection of data from various sources such as financial performance records, customer analytics, and predictive models.
Findings: The research demonstrates that SMEs using data analytics experience significant improvements in financial performance. For instance, predictive analytics increased financial forecasting accuracy by 25%, and real-time business intelligence tools reduced operational costs by 15%. Businesses using customer analytics tools saw a 20% rise in customer retention and a 15% increase in revenue. The study shows that data-driven strategies can improve overall financial stability by 30% and enable SMEs to proactively mitigate risks in volatile markets.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: The study contributes to the emerging body of literature on the transformative potential of data analytics in financially distressed regions, providing new insights into how real-time and predictive analytics can enhance financial decision-making in SMEs’ practices within the economically distressed regions. The study provides a practical blueprint for SMEs to adopt data analytics tools, demonstrating their impact on financial stability, operational efficiency, and long-term growth. It offers actionable recommendations for business leaders in distressed regions to integrate analytics equitably into their decision-making processes.
Resource Planning and Collapse of Buildings in Kiambu County, Kenya
Authors: Nyabuga Rehema Kemuma
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The research sought to find out the impacts of resource planning on building collapse in Kiambu County, Kenya. Therefore, this research aimed to establish the impact of resource planning on building collapse in Kiambu to be able to advise on how to contain the problem and enhance the non-collapse of such buildings.
Methodology: In this study, the authors adopted a simple random sampling technique to identify construction projects in Kiambu County based on Kahneman and Tversky’s Scheduling Fallacy Theory that covers problems such as over-optimism and false resource forecasting on resource requirement necessary for efficient completion of the project. The descriptive research method was also used in the study since it included both qualitative and quantitative data. The population of the study consisted of 545, which included the employees from the physical planning department, architects, surveyors, engineers, and contractors’ builders, and finally the sample size came to 231 as estimated By Yamane, 1967.
Findings: The research findings revealed that poor resource management has partly influenced building failures. Attempts by the contractors to solve the problem and eradicate the vice have been frustrated by the locals and politicians for their selfish reasons which have not been highlighted in this study. The research also pointed out that handling of resources reveals the highest mean score of 4.1773 this means that most respondents hold positive attitudes towards their practice of resource planning.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy, and Practice: The Scheduling Fallacy Theory of 1979 by Kahneman and Tversky was utilized to examine the construction collapses of Kiambu County and the cognitive biases of underestimating time, resources, and costs in construction projects. The study suggested that strict adherence to building codes, better regulatory standards, risk evaluation, and better resource allocation are needed. Prevention was recommended through cross-sector collaboration of government, developers, contractors, and regulatory bodies alike. Empirical research into resource planning faults and their impact on structural integrity was proposed.
Global evolution of nanotechnology research with special emphasis on health sciences : A bibliometric approach
Authors: Idhris Mohamed , Pattukuthu Abdurahiman , Peter Manuelraj , Samuel Spurgeon Anandraj , Pottachola Abdul Jaleel , Devasagayam Helan Petricia
Published: October 2024

Purpose: The scientific impact of every scientific publication is widely measured through bibliometric analysis. In this article we have conducted evidence-based bibliometric analysis of articles on nanotechnology. Literature on nanotechnology applications that has been published in journals across all fields of science and technology. The data is retrived from Medline database via Pubmed., Total 267 publications were retrieved and analyzed, The New England Journal of Medicine achieved the highest citation, “Corcoy Rosa” is the most productive author. Most of the publications are classified as Randomized controlled trials, despite this, there hasn’t been a lot of indepth research on the publication trends of nanotechnology in journals of the health sciences. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the publication trends in the field of Nanotechnology with special emphasis on health sciences. Methods: The data was acquired from the MEDLINE database via PubMed on January 4, 2021, covering the years 2001 through 2020. The articles were sorted according to the Publication Type, Number of Publications (Pub), Relative Citation Ratio (RCR) and Total Citations (TC) influence. The tables are created in excel spread sheet which is download from “iCite” tool. Highly cited journals and author tables are created usning “VOS Viewer” visualization bibliometric tool. Findings: A total number of 267 records were retrieved, and a systematic review was carried out over 20 years between 2001 and 2020. The total number of RCR and citations are 545.44 and 5307 respectively. The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) received more citation which is n=214. “Corcoy Rosa” was the most productive author during the study period, with n=9 publications with 608 citations aggregated. Most of the publications are classified as Randomized controlled trials, which account for 37% of all publications retrieved. The year 2019 has the most publications, with a total of n=29. European countries have leading publications and authors in this field of research; however, the rest of the world needs to apply more concentration to improve the development of this field. Limitations: The study was limited to twenty years period from 2001 to 2020, and the data was obtained from single database PubMed.
Knowledge domain analysis of artificial intelligence in automation and control systems
Authors: Tsay Ming-Yueh , Tseng Yu-Wei , Lin Jia-Hsuan
Published: October 2024

This study mainly explores the evolution in the subject development of artificial intelligence documents in the field of automation and control systems from 1956 to 2019. Based on the search in WoS SCIE database, 27,782 documents are revealed. The VOSviewer is then employed to draw the co-citation network diagram. Moreover, both VOSviewer and Citespace are used to draw the keyword co-occurrence network diagram and the burst word change diagram from 2000 to 2019 to master the field trend. The results from the keyword co-occurrence reveal that “neural network” and “adaptive control” are the main keywords in all periods and after 2010 , the research topics has shifted to “adaptive control”, especially in Lyapunov method, nonlinear control system, control system synthesis and multi-agent system. The overall document co-citation network can be roughly divided into two research axes: “adaptive control” and “nonlinear system”. In terms of author cocitation, Ge, Shuzhi Sam, Li, Zhijun, He, Wei are the most commonly cited high-productivity authors, while Lewis, Frank L. is at the center of the whole co-citation network and plays a leading role in the field. In terms of journal co-citation, Automatica and IEEE Transactions on Automatic Control are most often cited together with other journals, and the link strength between the two is strong. These two journals are of small number but high-quality publications. IEEE Transactions on Industrial Electronics is at the center of the co-citation network, which shows its multidisciplinary nature.
Artificial intelligence research in sub- Saharan Africa : Bibliometric review and a case analysis of Mauritius contributions
Authors: Moosun S. , Madhou M. , Nagowah D. Naginlal-Modi- , Khodabux B. Nabiihah , Ramen S. A. Patten-
Published: October 2024

It is recognised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is key to economic growth and sustainable development. On a global scale, it seems that Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is amongst the least advantaged region to harness the potential of AI to boost economic growth. A need to identify relevant practices to facilitate AI readiness in this region is clearly felt. Bibliometric analysis using Scopus as well as a desktop study were used to identify the top performers in AI Research in SSA and the best practices to promote AI Readiness. Infrastructural development, Human Resources, International partnerships and a sound governance framework were found to be key to leverage on AI for development. However, this paper also identifies a sound Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) base to be a key step to allow other best practices to graft on. This should probably be the startingpoint for many countries in the region.
Bibliometric analysis of gender-specific aspects of publication behavior at Technical University Ilmenau
Authors: Markscheffel Bernd , Fischer Sara
Published: October 2024

Various studies show that there are gender-specific differences in the productivity of scientists. In this paper, bibliometric data from the TU Ilmenau between 2012 and 2021 are examined for gender-specific differences. The results show that women are underrepresented in all areas at the TU Ilmenau and that their gender has a negative influence on the publication frequency but not on the citation rate. These differences can be mitigated by other factors such as the research area (faculty) or the title of the employee.
From the Editor’s Desk
Authors: Markscheffel Bernd
Published: October 2024

As we turn a new page in our publication’s journey, I want to take a moment to express our collective gratitude and appreciation for the outstanding work of our outgoing Editor-in- Chief, Prof. NG Satish over the past period, Prof. NG Satish’s leadership, creativity, and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in shaping the voice and vision of our publication. Under Prof. Satish’s direction, we’ve tackled important issues, and elevated the quality of our content to new heights.
Conceptual Study on Environmental toxicity as Dushi Visha as Causative Factor in Infertility & its Ayurvedic Management
Authors: Vd. Chiranka Ghorpade  , Prof. Vd. Manohar Khankhane
Published: October 2024

Exposure to toxic substances in the environment can lead to various health problems that persist over time. These toxic substances can come from multiple sources, such as air pollution, contaminated water, and exposure to hazardous chemicals. Such toxins have hazardous effects on human health. So, one of the effect is on the Reproductive system. Environmental toxins damage normal physiological reactions related to the reproductive system. In today’s era Infertility is one of the burning issues globally. Some studies also told these environmental toxins exposure have hazardous effect on male & female reproductive system.[1] Excessive exposure to pollutants in the environment, long-term exposure of contaminated foods, Water, pesticides, industrial chemicals, toxic metals etc all of which fall under the concept of dushivisha, cause reproductive dysfunctions and infertility. One of the effects of dushivishalinked to infertility is "Kshapayetshukram" (shukramdepletion). In both the lakshana and upadrava of dushivisha, acharya sushrutha mentioned sukrakshaya.[2] So in this study an effort has been put forth to make conceptual study on environmental toxins as Dushi visha as a causative factor of Infertility& its Ayurvedic management including panchakarma & Agadyog.
Mental Well-Being, Lifestyle, Genomics Health-Related Literacy on the Quality of Life among Individuals with Non-Communicable Diseases
Authors: Agbayani Hazel P. , Coronado Rosenie S.
Published: October 2024

This study explored the predictability of quality of life (QoL) based on mental well-being, lifestyle (physical activity and smoking behavior), and genomics health-related literacy among 349 individuals with non-communicable diseases in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, in early 2024. Using a descriptive, correlational (predictive) design, data were collected via the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, Lifestyle Questionnaire (DLBQ), Genomic Health-Related Literacy Questionnaire (UNC-GKS), and WHOQOL-BREF. Findings revealed moderate levels of mental well-being, physical activity, smoking behavior, genomics literacy, and overall QoL. Correlation analyses showed that mental well-being was significantly associated with physical activity, while smoking behavior and genomics literacy were correlated with QoL. However, mental well-being did not predict QoL, which was instead predicted by lifestyle factors and genomics health literacy. These findings informed the development of a theoretical framework and enhancement plan to improve QoL in this population.