bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting the outcome in methanol-induced optic neuropathy cases: A guessing game?
Authors: Nusanti Syntia , Ayuningtyas Sita Paramita , Dewiputri Salmarezka , Budihardja Brigitta Marcia , Eldinia Lourisa Ruth , Permaisuari Nizma , Sidik M.
Published: April 2024

Methanol-induced optic neuropathy remains a challenging problem for health-care systems worldwide. The outcomes for patients with methanol-induced optic neuropathy are often unpredictable, with many cases resulting in severe and irreversible visual impairment. This case series aims to illustrate the diverse range of outcomes associated with methanol-induced optic neuropathy. This report describes three cases of methanol-induced optic neuropathy with varying outcomes despite similar conditions at presentation. One case involved methanol exposure through inhalation, while the other two cases resulted from methanol ingestion. Initially, all three cases presented with poor visual acuity, and no clear systemic manifestations were observed. The patients received high-dose corticosteroid treatment and neuroprotectors. Remarkably, the patient with the youngest age demonstrated the most significant improvement during follow-up, whereas the oldest patient, who was a smoker and alcoholic, exhibited the least improvement. This case series highlights the substantial differences in outcomes among these cases despite the identical treatment approach for all. The treatment outcomes for methanol-induced optic neuropathy may vary, even when patients present with similar severity and receive identical therapy. Age and lifestyle are considered prognostic factors affecting the outcome of therapy. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment are needed to improve the prognosis.
Thirty versus 60-Watt thulium laser enucleation of prostate: Toward the development of low-power anatomical enucleation of the prostate
Authors: Omar Mohamed , Abdullah Mohamed Marzouk , Moustafa Ahmed , Sultan Sultan
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

We aimed to study whether using 30 W versus 60 W thulium enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) would affect postoperative outcomes in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Materials and Methods:

We prospectively identified male patients with moderate or severe lower urinary tract symptoms due to BPH. We randomized patients into 30 W (Group 1) or 60 W (Group 2) thulium yag laser with a 550 μm laser fiber and a 26 Fr continuous flow resectoscope. We collected data related to prostate size, enucleation time, morcellation time, laser time, perioperative complications, and 1-year functional outcomes.

Results:

A total of 120 patients were included, with a mean age of 67 years and a mean prostate size of 105 g. The preoperative characteristics were similar across both groups. The mean operative time was shorter in the 60 W group, 74 ± 27 vs. 91 ± 33 min in the 30 W group (P = 0.001), and the mean laser time was 55 ± 20 in 60 W versus 71 ± 25 in 30 W (P = 0.0001). The mean hospital stay was 1 day in both groups and at 1-year follow-up; there was a similar improvement in mean Qmax and International Prostate Symptom Score symptom scores.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Both 30 and 60 W ThuLEP provided a safe and comparable outcome with a relatively shorter operative time for the 60 W groups. Perhaps using a 30-W setting would be beneficial in the early learning curve or cases with more bleeding capsular perforators; besides, the financial benefit of manufacturing low-cost low-power devices that may help in the widespread of AEEP.
Effect of dose reduction of dutasteride in combination with alpha-blockers in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic enlargement
Authors: Abou-Farha Mohamed , Hagras Ayman , Nagla Salah
Published: April 2024

Context:

Dutasteride is used in the treatment of benign prostate enlargement with reported many side effects.

Aims:

The purpose of this study is to examine how different doses of dutasteride (0.5 mg) in combination with tamsulosin affect the outcome of treatment of benign prostatic enlargement (BPE).

Settings and Design:

Prospective study (phase III trial).

Subjects and Methods:

Between April 2017 and March 2020, this randomized study was conducted on 300 patients with moderate-to-severe lower urinary tract symptoms attributable to BPE and a prostate volume of more than 40 cc. The patients were divided into three therapy groups at random (one-to-one randomization), each with 100 patients: (Group I) daily tamsulosin 0.4 mg plus dutasteride (0.5 mg). (Group II) every other day tamsulosin 0.4 mg plus dutasteride 0.5 mg. (Group III) once a week tamsulosin 0.4 mg plus dutasteride 0.5 mg.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical analysis was carried out with the help of the SPSS program 22. (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA). The mean and standard deviation (SD) are used to express quantitative data (SD). When comparing two means, an independent-samples t-test of significance was used. To compare more than two means, a one-way analysis of variance was utilized. For multiple comparisons between distinct variables, a post
hoc test was performed.

Results:

Patients were followed up every 3 months, with a 1-year follow-up to examine the medications’ efficacy, prostate size reduction, and erectile function. After 1 year of treatment, all groups showed significant improvement in their symptom scores. However, Groups I and II experienced a considerable reduction in prostate size after therapy, but Group III experienced no meaningful reduction. In terms of sexual dysfunction, there was a considerable shift in Group I after 12 months.

Conclusions:

Dutasteride treatment on the other day schedule has the same efficacy as the daily dose on prostate size at the same time; the other day scheduled dose has better preservation of sexual function.
A prospective observational study on the efficacy of procalcitonin as a diagnostic test to exclude lower urinary tract infection and to minimize antibiotic overuse
Authors: Acharya Swastik , Mishra Sanjukta , Ghosh Arpan , Patro Shubhransu
Published: April 2024

Background:

Urinary tract infection (UTI) stands out as the third-most common infection following gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections. Over the past decade, the biomarker procalcitonin (PCT) has gained prominence to facilitate the detection of bacterial infections and reduce excessive antibiotic exposure.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to mitigate the overuse of antibiotics, by promoting the noninitiation or early discontinuation of empirical antibiotics, which would significantly help minimize the proliferation of multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Methodology:

A prospective observational study was carried out at the tertiary care center in the Department of General Medicine of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, involving 200 patients with symptoms of lower UTI such as increased frequency, urgency, burning micturition, retention, and suprapubic tenderness with or without positive urinalysis. Detailed demographic profiles along with symptoms at the time of admission were recorded in a pretested structured format. To determine a positive diagnosis of UTI, signs and symptoms of UTI with or without urinary cultures were tested. The PCT level was estimated using enhanced chemiluminescence technique. Other routine tests such as complete blood count, renal function test, liver function test, urine routine microscopy, culture, chest X-ray, and ultrasonography abdomen pelvis were done and recorded. All patients, who had an initial serum PCT level of < 0.5 ng/mL, were kept under observation with only conservative and symptomatic treatments. Patients were further reviewed for improvement in symptoms and repeat urine microscopy. All patients, who had an initial serum PCT level of > 0.5 ng/mL, were initiated with antibiotics as per the culture and sensitivity reports. Patients were followed up for improvement in symptoms with reports of repeated urinalysis.

Results:

Our study reported the fact that 9.5% of the patients with initial serum PCT ≥ 0.5 ng/mL showed no improvement in symptoms despite starting antibiotics while significantly higher number of symptomatic patients (60%) with initial serum PCT < 0.5 ng/ml showed improvement in symptoms with conservative treatment without antibiotics.

Conclusion:

A lower PCT level rules out bacterial invasion and thus can be used as a novel marker in antibiotic stewardship.
Anatomical study of the morphometry of portal caudate veins
Authors: Karim Yacouba Garba , Elmaslouhi C. , Ndiaye Assane , Deme Ahmadou , Sani Rachid , Ndoye Jean Marc
Published: April 2024

The caudate lobe is a relatively unknown part of the liver due to its location and many variations. The caudate lobe is a separate entity that is located behind the trunk of the portal vein.It constitutes the hepatic dorsal area that comprises of only segment I. Thus, this lobe can be vascularized by caudate veins (CV) born either from the right branch of the portal vein (PV),from the left branch or from both. Therefore, the work allows us to study the morphometry of caudate veins. Based on the exploitation of vascular mussels of the inferior vena cava and the portal vein after injection-corrosion of the liver, the study conducted from April 2018 to March 2019 involved 41 livers of which 30 were exploited for caudate veins. These were from fresh adult subjects, both sexes free of any hepatobilio-pancreatic pathology or trauma. The injection-corrosion parts of his vascular mussels included the hepatobasement junction and the hepatic pedicle. The PV and its right and left branches provided accessory caudate branches for the caudate lobe at the level of the hepatic hilum. Thus, for all livers, we found 102 branches cauded by accessories. The accessory caudate veins were born either from the left branch of the PV in 28 livers out of 30 (93.37% ), by 1 to 4 vessels with an average distance between its branches and the portal bifurcation being 17 mm with extremes ranging from 7 to 39 mm; either from the right branch of the PV in 23 livers out of 30(76.6%), by 1 to 3 vessels with an average distance of 12.9 mm between its branches and the portal bifurcation, with extremes ranging from 9 to 18 mm. The stem of the portal vein gave branches to the caudate lobe in 11 livers on 30(36.6%),by 1 to 2 vessels whose diameter varied from 1 mm to 3 mm. We studied on 30 liver samples the anatomical variations related to CV. This is a contribution to the fundamental foundations of liver removal surgery because too little work (and often radiological) exists in Africa on the subject. However, this lack of comparative anthropometric data confirms the diversity of anatomical variations in caudate veins. On the therapeutic level these anatomical data contribute to the peri-operative safety of liver surgery.
Comparative Analysis of Encryption Algorithms Using Simulation Technique
Authors: Yabo Aminu S. , Aliyu Mansur , Auyo Salihu G. , Ali Amiru , Haruna Abdullahi M. , Rugga Bashar F.
Published: April 2024

The unprotected electronic document may be subjected to a data breach in which private or sensitive information is stolen, taken,  altered, copied, communicated, viewed, or used without authorization. This study evaluates the four most common encryption  algorithms like Data Encryption Standard (DES) Algorithms, Rivest Cipher2 Algorithm (RC2), Triple Data Encryption Standard (3DES), and  Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). This aims to compare four (4) encryption algorithms using simulation in VB.NET programming  approach that uses time and data size parameters to encrypt and decrypt data with greater efficiency. The simulation comparison  technique using the VB.Net programming was adopted as the method for the study. A graphical user interface (GUI) was developed, and  four algorithms were programmed to evaluate their performance based time and data size. As a result, the four Encryption Algorithms  were evaluated and found that the Advanced Encryption Standard algorithm (AES) performs much faster in VB.Net.
Croissance économique et taux de chômage en Algérie: lecture par la loi de "GORDON" sur la période 1970 – 2019
Authors: Benmeriem Mohammed , Bensafta Kamel Malik , Barik Mourad
Published: April 2024

Dans ce papier, nous cherchons à identifier l'effet de la croissance économique sur le chômage, à court et à long termes dans l'économie algérienne, sur la période 1970-2019. Pour ce faire, nous considérons la relation de l'écart d’Okun développée par Gordon (1984). Nos résultats montrent l'existence d'un effet de mémoire significatif de l'écart de chômage. Par ailleurs, l'impact de l'écart de production sur l'écart de chômage n’est pas immédiat. Concernant la présence de l'impact négatif et significatif de l'écart de PIB sur l'écart de chômage, dans le long terme, nos estimations suggèrent que 5% de croissance du PIB réel pourrait réduire le taux de chômage de 2,2% dans le long terme.
Understanding the link between urban household food insecurity and contraceptive use among reproductive-age women in Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Goda Ephrem Tadesse , Boshera Terefe Degefa , Aredo Mengistu Ketema
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The enhancement of reproductive health in women can result in an improvement of children’s nutritional status resulting in improvement of reproductive health. This association is important for sustainable population growth without overusing resources. This study aims to examine the relationship between household food insecurity and contraceptive use.Method: A study was conducted on 651 reproductive-age women in three randomly selected Woredas (districts), Lideta Sub-city from February to March 2023. Six Ketenas (villages) were selected using a probability proportional to size technique from three Woredas. Data were collected through a validated survey by trained individuals, and household income and expenditure were used to measure food insecurity access. The Pearson chi-square test (c2) and logistic regression were used to examine the relationship between household food insecurity and contraceptive use, considering other covariates.Result: Modern contraception usage was at 50.5% in the study area. Women with food insecurity had only a 32.0% usage rate, while those who were food secure had the higher rate of 68.7%. Women in food-insecure households had a 76.5% lower chance of using modern contraception. Positive attitude, family planning information, partner discussion, income, and childhood mortality were associated with contraceptive use (p <0.05).Conclusion: Use of modern methods of contraception showed a negative correlation with food insecurity. Therefore,  addressing household food insecurity as a potential obstacle to the development of family planning services requires comprehensive stakeholder engagement and socio-economic policy intervention.
Healthcare professionals’ job motivation in a federal hospital in Ethiopia: A Cross-sectional study
Authors: Wagaye Bezawit Woldaregay , Leulseged Tigist Workneh , Gurara Mebratu Abera , Gebremedhin Betelhem Tiruneh , Minas Yared Adane , Gebeyehu Yonas Hailu , Alemneh Zekarias Tadele , Meshesha Thomas Tadesse , Lisanu Nathnael Tesfa , Beza Solomon Worku
Published: April 2024

Background: Healthcare professional motivation is crucial for delivering high-quality healthcare in any setting. However, low motivation is a significant challenge in developing countries like Ethiopia, where workforce shortages and a weak healthcare system strain to handle an increasing patient flow.This study aimed to assess the motivation levels and associated factors among healthcare professionals working at ALERT Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2022 among 293 healthcare professionals. Participants were selected from the pool of permanent hospital employees who were actively working at the time of the study. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured, self-administered questionnaire. Motivation level was assessed using 23 questions under 7 constructs that are measured on a five-point likert scale and finally reported as a standardized percentage of scale maximum (% SM). To identify factors associated with motivation level, a multiple linear regression analysis was run at 5% level of significance, where regression coefficient (β) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to interpret significant results.Results: The participants' job motivation level was 41.6% (95%CI: 39.8-43.6%). Being a doctor was associated with a significantly lower level of motivation than nurses (β=-7.94, 95%CI=-11.80, -4.07, p<0.001). On the other hand, significantly high motivation levels were associated with having a managerial role (β=3.95, 95% CI=0.74,7.15, p=0.016), availability of adequate resources for effective work performance (β=2.77, 95% CI=1.27,4.27, p<0.0001), and low practice of subjective performance appraisal system (β=2.41, 95%CI=1.02,3.79, p=0.001).Conclusion: The healthcare professionals' level of motivation was moderate. Designing interventions to minimize workload, and improve decision making power, resources availability, and performance appraisal system is crucial. Further multi-center study using a mixed-methods design is essential to gain an in-depth understanding and reach a more generalizable finding.
Conventional Oxygen Therapy in Childhood Emergencies at the Albert Royer National Children's Hospital in Dakar: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Thiogane Aliou , Ba Abou , Sow Amadou , Keita Younoussa , Aliou Ndongo A , Boiro Djrbil , Niang Babacar , Basse Idrissa , Ly Indou Deme , Dieng Yaay Joor , Faye Papa Moctar , Fall Amadou Lamine , Ndiaye Ousmane
Published: April 2024

Background: Conventional oxygen therapy is administered via various devices (nasal cannula, simple or high-concentration masks, face masks). It is currently the first stage in symptomatic acute respiratory failure (ARF) treatment before introducing non-invasive or invasive mechanical ventilation.
Objective: To evaluate conventional oxygen therapy techniques, the different indications, the duration of use and the outcome.
Methods: This retrospective study was conducted from January to July 2021 at the Albert Royer National Children's Hospital, Dakar, Senegal.
Results: The records of 129 patients were retrieved; this represented 14.4% of total admissions. The mean age was 32.28 months, and the sex ratio was 1.26. The leading diagnoses included bronchiolitis (34.11%), asthma (20.16%), and pneumonia (16.28%). The methods of conventional oxygen delivery included simple nasal cannulas (89.92%), simple masks (9.3%), and masks with high-concentration reservoirs (8.5%). The outcome was good in 83.72% of cases, while 16.28% died.
Conclusion: Conventional oxygen therapy is widely used to manage acute respiratory failure. The outcome remains generally good despite a notably high mortality rate, which may be due to the inadequacy of non-invasive oxygenation methods and diagnostic tools such as blood gas analysis.
Curcumin intervention in hippocampal atrophy of diet-induced Alzheimer-like deficits in insulin-resistant rats
Authors: Mohammed A. A. , Akinola O. B.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION: The primary mechanism connecting Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to the neurodegenerative deficits in brain regions such as the hippocampus is insulin resistance. Neurodegenerative deficits in the form of amyloid aggregation and Tau hyperphosphorylation, which are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, are documented for both conditions in scientific literature. A mouse model of insulin resistance was used to study this relationship, and curcumin, a flavonoid contained in the spice turmeric, was evaluated as a potential treatment because of its reported benefits in lowering hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diabetes mellitus. Curcumin is a prime contender against these pervasive diseases due to its efficacy, accessibility, affordability, and safety. METHODS: The study methodology included measuring fasting blood glucose levels, staining hippocampal sections for histomorphological examination, and ELISA to quantify hippocampal PI3K expression, AKT expression, and GSK3-β. Data were processed using one-way ANOVA and Turkey's post hoc test. RESULTS: The findings demonstrated that oral curcumin effectively corrected hyperglycemia and reduced insulin resistance. The study further revealed that insulin resistance was related to hippocampal atrophy and related deficits in the assessed rat model. Curcumin ameliorated these changes, reduced the aggregation of Aβ in the hippocampus, and reversed impaired signaling of proteins PI3K, AKT, and GSK-3β. CONCLUSION: The study's findings imply that oral curcumin has potential therapeutic advantages against prevalent neuronal death linked to abnormalities mimicking Alzheimer's disease and insulin resistance. Hence, curcumin may benefit dementia patients who also have insulin resistance.
Unilateral incomplete duplication of the left ureter: a case report
Authors: Umubonwa M. , Ndayishime T. , Archibong V. , Muhammed A. , Habumuremyi S. , Niyibigira C. , Gashegu J.
Published: April 2024

Embryological defects in the development of the kidney cause a unilateral duplicated ureter. It may predispose an individual to the formation of ureteric stones at the junction of the duplicated ureter due to the acute angle formed at the point of union, increasing the likelihood of the “yoyo reflux” phenomenon, urinary stasis, and recurrent urinary tract infections. The case report is a 39-year-old adult male cadaver who had a unilateral duplicated left ureter with a “V” shape at the vesicoureteral junction. The case was discovered during a routine dissection of the abdominal region at the gross anatomy laboratory of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda. Although a duplicated ureter may be asymptomatic, it is implicated in the development of ureteric calculi and ureteric infections and increases the susceptibility to potential iatrogenic injury during surgical procedures.
Antioxidant status and acute phase reactants in pregnant women infected with Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Atere Adedeji D. , Kosamat Yekeen A. , Oluwatuyi Precious O. , Chukwuemeka Cinderella E.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION: Malaria during pregnancy remains a public health issue. The most deadly plasmodium, Plasmodium falciparum, kills about 40% of the world's population, especially pregnant women and children under five. In pregnant women infected with Plasmodium falciparum, MDA, CAT, H2O2, SOD, and GPx were measured as oxidative stress markers and SAA and CRP as acute-phase proteins.

METHODS: A total of 90 subjects were recruited for this study, which was subdivided into 30 pregnant women infected with malaria (PWM), 35 pregnant women not infected with malaria (PWN), and 25 healthy women without pregnancy (WWP) who served as the control groups. 5mls of venous blood was collected and dispensed into appropriate bottles for malaria parasite assessment using a rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and MDA, CAT, H2O2, SOD, GPx, SAA, and CRP analysis using conventional laboratory techniques. Statistical analysis was done, and P values under 0.05 were significant.

RESULTS: The PWM and PWN groups had significantly higher MDA and H2O2 values, but SOD, GPx, and CAT values were significantly lower (p<0.05). When comparing CRP and SAA levels between PWM, PWN, and control groups, both groups with pregnancy had significantly greater levels (p<0.05). A negative correlation (r = -0.442, p<0.05) was found between MDA and SAA, while positive correlations were seen between CAT and CRP, and SOD and SAA in pregnant women with malaria.

CONCLUSION: This study found that malaria during pregnancy increases oxidants and decreases antioxidant enzymes, causing oxidative stress. This study showed that CRP and SAA may indicate malaria infections.
Second Anatomy Annual Congress in Rwanda - October 15, 2023
Authors: SOCIETY OF CLINICAL ANATOMY OF RWANDA (S-CAR)
Published: April 2024

Theme: Anatomy for patients’ safety and professional growth

It is with great honor that I welcome you to our 2nd anatomy annual congress. This year’s theme is “Anatomy for Patients’ Safety and Professional Growth.” Understanding anatomy is crucial for patient safety and professional development as it forms the cornerstone of healthcare practice. For accurate diagnosis and treatment, a solid understanding of anatomy is necessary in all areas, including the physical examination of a patient, the interpretation of symptoms, the interpretation of radiological images, and the comprehension of pathological illnesses. Thus, it may be claimed that a good healthcare worker is one who can use anatomical knowledge to give his or her patients high-quality care.

Patient safety is a concern in healthcare practice not just in Rwanda but globally, as it directly impacts the quality of care, patient outcomes, and public trust in healthcare. Rwanda is a low- and middle-income country with a developing healthcare infrastructure, and it is important that patient safety is a priority. This is why the 2nd Anatomy Congress of S-CAR offers the ideal setting for professionals to collaborate and share experiences, learn from specialists, embrace ongoing advancements in anatomy education, and advance patient safety and professional development in Rwanda and Africa.

Our participation in this S-CAR congress is a testament to our commitment to the well-being of our patients and our passion for professional growth. We will all promise to uphold not only the anatomy profession in Rwanda but also to support patient safety and carry the torch for our professional advancement. The 2nd Anatomy Annual Congress program offers an interesting package for both professionals and students, with 39 presentations subdivided into six sessions (medical education, learning assessment, anatomical study, anatomical variations, surgical anatomy, neuroanatomy, and neuroscience). This conference will help appreciate the beauty of the anatomy sciences and its importance in patient safety and professional growth in Rwanda. On behalf of S-CAR, I would like to express my gratitude to the sponsors of this congress, namely: UR, Operation Smile, and MMI.
Discovery of an accessory greater saphenous vein - a case study
Authors: Mohammed A. , Olorunnado S. , Archibong V. , Gashegu J.
Published: April 2024

The greater saphenous vein (GSV) is a vital structure in the lower extremity with well-documented anatomical variations. This case report describes the unexpected discovery of an accessory GSV during a routine cadaveric dissection at the University of Rwanda's School of Medicine and Pharmacy. The accessory GSV ran parallel to the main GSV before rejoining it higher in the leg. This finding underscores the importance of recognizing anatomical variations like accessory GSVs, which can influence clinical procedures and outcomes. Increased awareness among clinicians and educators is crucial, and further research is needed to assess the prevalence and clinical implications of this rare anatomical variant.
Weakly toll convexity and proper interval graphs
Authors: Dourado Mitre C. , Gutierrez Marisa , Protti Fábio , Tondato Silvia
Published: April 2024

A walk $u_0u_1 \ldots u_{k-1}u_k$ is a \textit{weakly toll walk} if $u_0u_i
\in E(G)$ implies $u_i = u_1$ and $u_ju_k\in E(G)$ implies $u_j=u_{k-1}$. A set
$S$ of vertices of $G$ is {\it weakly toll convex} if for any two non-adjacent
vertices $x,y \in S$ any vertex in a weakly toll walk between $x$ and $y$ is
also in $S$. The {\em weakly toll convexity} is the graph convexity space
defined over weakly toll convex sets. Many studies are devoted to determine if
a graph equipped with a convexity space is a {\em convex geometry}. An
\emph{extreme vertex} is an element $x$ of a convex set $S$ such that the set
$S\backslash\{x\}$ is also convex. A graph convexity space is said to be a
convex geometry if it satisfies the Minkowski-Krein-Milman property, which
states that every convex set is the convex hull of its extreme vertices. It is
known that chordal, Ptolemaic, weakly polarizable, and interval graphs can be
characterized as convex geometries with respect to the monophonic, geodesic,
$m^3$, and toll convexities, respectively. Other important classes of graphs
can also be characterized in this way. In this paper, we prove that a graph is
a convex geometry with respect to the weakly toll convexity if and only if it
is a proper interval graph. Furthermore, some well-known graph invariants are
studied with respect to the weakly toll convexity.
Safety Assessment: Change of conditions of use for the novel food, isomalto-oligosaccharides
Authors: Regulated Products Risk Assessment Team
Published: April 2024

An application was submitted to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) in April 2021 from Bioneutra Incorporated, North America (“the applicant”) for the authorisation of the proposed extension of use of isomalto-oligosaccharides (IMOs) as a novel food. The novel food are IMOs which are intended to be used as a food ingredient and as an ingredient in food supplements. IMOs are manufactured by the enzyme hydrolysis of starch which is sourced from different plant crops (e.g., cereals, legumes, and roots). IMOs are currently authorised as a novel food in the UK (assimilated Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2017/2470). This new application is an extension of the intended uses of IMOs, seeking to use the novel food within the food categories: ice cream and dairy desserts, instant coffee and tea, table-top sweeteners, cakes, muffins, pies, pastries, breakfast cereals, condiments/relishes, gravies and sauces, gelatines, puddings, fillings, jams and jellies, yoghurts, milk-based drinks, snack foods, and sweet sauces, toppings and syrups, and as an ingredient in food supplements. To support the FSA and FSS in their evaluation of the application, the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) were asked to review the safety dossier and supplementary information provided by the applicant. Please note the Committee did not consider any potential health benefits or claims arising from consuming the food, as the focus of the novel food assessment is to ensure the extension of use of the food is safe, and not putting consumers at a nutritional disadvantage. The FSA and FSS concluded that the applicant had provided sufficient information to assure the proposed extension of use for IMOs, was safe under the proposed conditions of use. The anticipated intake levels and the proposed use in foods was not considered to be nutritionally disadvantageous.
HAK WARIS ANAK ANGKAT DALAM HUKUM ISLAM DAN HUKUM POSITIF DI INDONESIA
Authors: Rahman Fathor , Fida Imanuddin Abil
Published: April 2024

This study examines children's rights from the perspective of Islamic law and positive law in Indonesia. Utilizing a deskriptif qualitative methodology, this study aims to analyze the legal rights of children in conflict as well as the differences between Islamic and positive Indonesian law on the custody of children. The deskriptif method of quantitative analysis is used to provide a comprehensive picture of the differences between Islamic and positive Indonesian law concerning the rights of minors. This study provides a more comprehensive understanding of the application of law concerning the guardianship of adopted children, which can serve as a foundation for longer-term legislative development in Indonesia.
Keywords: Inheritance Rights of Adopted Children, Islamic Law, Positive Law in Indonesia
Pemanfaatan Penginderaan Jauh dan Sistem Informasi Geografis untuk Identifikasi Morfometri di DAS Ciliwung
Authors: Purboyo Alvian Aji , Ramadan Alvien Hanif , Arifin Efri Triana , Noviandi Iqbal Eko , Arizqi Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Pengembangan teknologi penginderaan jauh telah menjadi bagian integral dalam pemetaan dan pengelolaan daerah aliran sungai (DAS). Salah satu aplikasi pemanfaatan penginderaan jauh adalah dalam analisis morfometri DAS, yang menyediakan informasi kuantitatif tentang karakteristik geomorfologi. Tujuan penelitian ini 1) Mengidentifikasi karakteristik morfometri DAS Ciliwung menggunakan data penginderaan jauh dan SIG, dan 2) Membuat peta DAS Ciliwung. Metode yang digunakan berupa teknik penginderaan jauh dan sistem informasi geografis. Adapun data yang digunakan berupa digital elevation model indonesia (DEMNAS) yang diperoleh dari situs Badan Informasi Geospasial (BIG). Kemudian peran dari SIG berupa pengolahan data, penyajian data berupa peta dan visualisasi 3 dimensi dari DAS Ciliwung. Aplikasi SIG yang digunakan berupa Arcmap 10.4.Hasil dari penelitian ini didapatkan luas DAS Ciliwung 387.827 km2, panjang sungai induk 141.256 km2. gradien 0.03%, tingkat kerapatan sungai 0.26, tingkat percabangan sungai 4.2 dan memiliki bentuk DAS memanjang. Penyajian data spasial dilakukan dengan membuat peta dan 3D modelling DAS Ciliwung. Oleh karena itu, dengan teridentifikasinya morfometri DAS Ciliwung diharapkan dapat memberikan gambaran kondisi fisik untuk melakukan perencanaan pengelolaan DAS terpadu.
Deep Learning Based Identification and Classification of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Hema Latha Indukuri  , Gayatri Mantena  , Shiri Ananya Penmethsa  , Sri Vignya Kusumpudi
Published: April 2024

A major factor contributing to blindness in diabetic people is diabetic retinopathy (DR). Early detection and classification are crucial for preventing vision loss. This study investigates the efficacy of deep learning models for identifying and classifying DR in retinal images. We deployed 9 different pre-trained models and one developed CNN model. The pre-trained models include ResNet 18,ResNet 50, DenseNet 121,  DenseNet  169,, DenseNet 201, EfficientNet  B5, MobileNetV2, InceptionV3, and Xception and CNN model was developed with  64,32 dense layers for binary classification differentiating DR and those without (non-DR). The models are trained and validated, evaluated on a retinal image dataset labelled for DR presence. The study analyses the accuracy of both the training, validation, and test datasets for each model in identifying DR. Notably, MobileNetV2 achieved the highest accuracy, outperforming the remaining models with an accuracy of 98 percent on test dataset.
Dynamic Decision Making for Connected Vehicles in IoT System
Authors: Miss. Sonal Sanjay Ayare  , Dr. Suraj V. Pote  , Dr. Jaydeep B. Patil
Published: April 2024

Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) which focuses on dynamic decision making for IoT data processes using distributed and decentralized systems has attracted much attention in recent years. In this paper, we propose a novel approach for enabling computational intelligence into dynamic decision-making for connected vehicles to provide various applications of smart cities. The proposed approach is based on the ant colony optimization (ACO) approach, which is able to improve the performance of intelligent transportation systems. In addition, the simulated results are compared with previous works in the literature.
IMPLEMENTASI HUKUM ISLAM DALAM KEPUTUSAN PENGADILAN AGAMA DALAM KONTEKS SOSIAL BUDAYA
Authors: Ince Aprianti  , Hadijah Wahid St. , Wahyuni Resky
Published: April 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui bagaimana implementasi hukum islam dalam keputusan pengadilan agama dalam konteks sosial budaya. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kualitatif, yaitu jenis penelitian library research. Bahan hukum yang digunakan merupakan data sekunder yang diperoleh dengan menelaah peraturan perundang-undangan serta publikasi yang relevan dengan tema tersebut. Data sekunder yang diperoleh dengan studi literatur kemudian diseleksi yang selanjutnya dilakukan reduksi data. Dan pada tahap yang terakhir dilakukan Analisa dengan menggunakan Analisa deduktif dan juga induktif. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah studi literatur. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa; Penerapan hukum Islam di Indonesia telah berubah secara berkala sesuai dengan kebijakan politik dan hukum yang ditetapkan oleh pemerintah. Namun di tengah-tengah proses tersebut terdapat dampak yang muncul dari interaksi faktor sosial budaya dalam proses pengambilan keputusan politik. Namun hukum Islam masih berkembang hingga saat ini berkat bantuan faktor sosial budaya dan infrastruktur politik serta suprastruktur politik. Banyaknya perspektif dan penafsiran umat Islam mengenai esensi hukum Islam telah mempengaruhi banyak aspek penerapannya.
Forecasts some of functional indicators nervous system for dribbling skills in young basketball players from Baghdad Governorate
Authors: Thaer Daoud Salman  , Amjad Eabd Alhamid Almajid  , Noura Amer Aliwi Al-Anazi  , Saad abbas Fadhil
Published: April 2024

The research study is important since it establishes predicted rates for various nervous system functional indicators.In terms of performing the skill of Dribbling in basketball for young players in Baghdad Governorate in order to reach scientific results that serve researchers, coaches, and players uniformly. The study's goal is to create predictive equations for specific functional indicators of the nervous system in relation to the Dribbling skill performance of young basketball players in Baghdad Governorate. The researchers used a descriptive approach with a survey method on (8) youth basketball league clubs in Baghdad Governorate for the 2022-2023 sports season, totaling (96) players . Three tests were used to measure the nervous system, and one test was used to measure the basketball dribbling skill . After processing the data statistically, the researchers concluded that there was a contribution rate for the Romberg test (maintaining balance) As an indicator of the nervous system in terms of the performance of the dribble skill in basketball for young players by (3.5%), a prediction equation was developed for it. There is a contribution rate for the Yarotsk test (evaluation of the state of the vestibular system) as an indicator of the nervous system in relation to the performance of the basketball dribbling skill for young players by (5.6%), and a prediction equation was developed for it. The researchers recommended the need to direct coaches and specialists to pay attention to the results of this study in planning future programs to develop the true performance level of young basketball players. It is necessary to circulate the results of this study to sports and youth centers and sports clubs in order to rely on the tests used to judge the suitability of players to practice basketball.It is necessary to conduct similar studies on functional indicators of the nervous system and try to determine the percentage of their contribution in relation to other basketball skills that were not addressed in the current study and to establish predictive coefficients for them.It is necessary to conduct similar studies on functional indicators of the nervous system in relation to the performance of the basketball skill at other levels and for both genders.
Kualitas Produk, Citra Merek dan Harga Terhadap Keputusan Pembelian Smartphone OPPO
Authors: Puspita Sari Indah , Gunaningrat Rayhan
Published: April 2024

Abstrak

Perkembangan dunia bisnis terutama industri produk smartphone di Indonesia mengalami peningkatan yang sangat pesat. Hal ini dikarenakan beberapa perusahaan smartphone mengeluarkan produk terbarunya dalam merebut pasar persaingan khususnya pada industri smartphone. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui kualitas produk, citra merek dan harga terhadap pembelian smartphone OPPO. Metode penelitian dalam penulisan ini menggunakan penyebaran kuesioner. Hasil dari penelitian yang dilakukan bahwa variabel kualitas produk dan citra merek tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian sedangkan variabel harga berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian. Pada variabel kualitas produk, citra merek, harga bersama-sama berpengaruh signifikan terhadap keputusan pembelian.
Penerapan Tarif Pajak Pph Pasal 21 Bagi Karyawan Bank Jateng Ditahun 2021
Authors: Rachma Putri Ari , Estiningtyastuti Estiningtyastuti
Published: April 2024

Abstrak 

PPh pasal 21 merupakan pajak yang terutang atas penghasilan yang menjadi kewajiban untuk membayarnya. Yang dimaksud dengan pendapatan tidak hanya gaji tetapi juga honorarium, tunjangan dan pembayaran lainnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui beban pajak dengan menerapkan 3 metode yaitu Metode Netto, Metode Gross, dan Metode Gross Up. Metode analisis yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kuantitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data ini menggunakan teknik wawancara dengan narasumber. Sehingga dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan metode gross-up memberikan keuntungan bagi kedua belah pihak.
Improving Agricultural Efficiency in Zimbabwe: A Labor Productivity Analysis
Authors: Setoboli Tsepeso , Tshuma Nothando , Sibanda Emmanuel
Published: April 2024

Developed countries have witnessed agricultural production growth alongside increased global pesticide and fertilizer use. However, Sub-Saharan African nations, including Zimbabwe, face stagnant agricultural productivity, resulting in consistently low output. Over the 2008 to 2018 decade, Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector experienced a decline in its contribution to total output from 19.02% to 5.07%. To realize Zimbabwe’s vision, it is crucial for agriculture to grow and enhance productivity. This study explores how agricultural efficiency can be improved by analyzing the determinants of agricultural labor productivity. Time series data spanning from 1991 to 2018 was analyzed using the Dynamic Linear model. Findings reveal a concerning trend: agricultural labor productivity is declining. The determinants of labor productivity in agriculture include economic development, national expenditure, rainfall, fertilizer use, cropping land area, raw material imports, and reinvestment in capital. To enhance agricultural efficiency, the study recommends several efforts. First, allocate more cropping land area to farmers, allowing for increased cultivation and promote the adoption of climate smart agricultural practices such as optimal water resource utilization to the farmers who already have a significant portion of productive land in their hands. Second, consider opening borders to facilitate the importation of essential agricultural raw materials. Third, ensure consistent access to fertilizer through government schemes. Lastly, support income-generating projects that promote overall economic development. Additionally, further studies should explore and differentiate the factors influencing agricultural labor productivity among both smallholder and large-scale commercial farmers.
Editorial
Authors: Piedimonte Fabián
Published: April 2024

Nos reencontramos compartiendo un nuevo número de NeuroTarget confirmando su presencia entre la comunidad neuroquirúrgica latinoamericana.
Correlación de los hallazgos clínicos y electrofisiológicos de la lesión medular experimental en ratas
Authors: Mannará Francisco Alberto , Yorio Alberto , Coirini Héctor , Figurelli Silvina , Segura Enrique
Published: April 2024

Introducción: La lesión experimental de la médula espinal de rata a nivel de la metámera sacra reproduce un modelo animal con menor morbilidad que al realizarla en niveles metaméricos más altos. Las referencias bibliográficas respecto a procedimientos que permitan cuantificar clínicamente la espasticidad de la cola de la rata debido a lesión medular a nivel sacro son escasas. No existen estudios que correlacionen el grado de espasticidad de la cola con las respuestas electrofisiológicas en un modelo experimental de lesión medular a ese nivel. El propósito de este trabajo es evaluar la espasticidad de la cola de la rata utilizando una escala clínica y validarla por medio de su correspondencia con los hallazgos electrofisiológicos.Materiales y método: Se realizaron cirugías espinales experimentales en ratas Sprague Dawley a nivel metamérico sacro para producir un cuadro clínico de espasticidad localizada exclusivamente en la cola de la rata. En el periodo posoperatorio se evaluaron clínicamente la paresia y el tono muscular y se valoró el grado de espasticidad por medio de una escala semicuantitativa del tono muscular. Asimismo, se efectuaron estudios electromiográficos de las respuestas de la cola (ondas M y F) a la estimulación del nervio caudal y se verificó que se había producido la lesión mediante el estudio de anatomía patológica.Resultados: Todos los animales con lesión medular presentaron paresia de la cola. La espasticidad comenzó a manifestarse luego de la segunda semana. De acuerdo con la escala del tono muscular utilizada, 5 ratas presentaron espasticidad grado 2, una espasticidad grado 3 y las otras 3 grado 4. La electrofisiología evidenció patrones de respuesta acordes con la evlución clínica y con el grado de espasticidad.Discusión: Los resultados obtenidos son concordantes con otros estudios en modelos experimentales de lesión medular alta (lumbo-sacra) y coincidentes con estudios de lesión medular baja (sacra), respecto al curso clínico de los efectos de la lesión medular y la evolución crónica con distintos grados de espasticidad. El presente estudio mostró que existe una correlación directa entre el grado de espasticidad y el patrón de respuestas electrofisiológicas, indicativas del grado de excitabilidad de las motoneuronas espinales.Conclusiones: El modelo animal de lesión experimental de la médula espinal a nivel sacro permite realizar una evaluación clínica del grado de espasticidad en forma semicuantitativa en correspondencia con la exploración electrofisiológica.
Validity and Reliability of the Nurse Manager Performance Assessment Scale
Authors: Koç Aslan Saliha , Türkmen Emine , Özdemir Dilek , Özkol Saygı Hülya
Published: April 2024

Background: The performance of nurse managers is significantly important in providing quality and safe patient care services in hospitals, as well as in retaining the nurse workforce.
There are limited number of measurement instruments for which validity and reliability have been tested in order to assess nurse managers' level of performance.
Objective: This study was conducted to examine the psychometric testing of the “Nurse Manager Performance Assessment Scale,” which is used to assess the annual performance of nurse managers working in a private chain hospital group in Turkey.
Method: The sample of this methodological study was composed of 165 nurse managers. The data were obtained from the Hospital Information Management System, retrospectively. Results: The average score of the eight-item scale items ranged between 3.3 (0.8) and 3.7 (0.8). The Cronbach's alpha coefficient, indicating the internal consistency, was found to be 0.943, while the Spearman-Brown coefficient, indicating intraclass consistency, was found to be 0.910. The two-factor scale obtained using exploratory factor analysis was examined using confirmatory factor analysis, and the model was found to be significant.
Conclusion: In this study, the results of psychometric analysis of the “Nurse Manager Performance Assessment Scale,” which is used to assess the annual performance of nurse managers, indicated that the scale is a valid and reliable instrument. It is recommended that the scale be applied in different institutions and that it be tested in practice based on pilot application results.
Humanizar la asistencia sanitaria. Un compromiso ético y estético
Authors: Flórez Lozano José Antonio
Published: April 2024

Los profesionales sanitarios participan de los valores imperantes en la sociedad actual globalizada en la que el hombre, en general, sufre un profundo desencanto por la reducción y/o desaparición de los principios éticos y morales, así como el desvanecimiento de los valores (vocación, honestidad, respeto, confidencialidad, responsabilidad, compromiso, sacrificio, trabajo, ilusión, amistad, sensibilidad, generosidad, capacidad de ayudar, etc.) y, naturalmente, esto influye en la profesión; bajo la tiranía del nihilismo, ya no queda un espacio “reflexivo” en nuestra mente para la virtud y la moral, es decir para la humanidad. Como expresara el Dr. Gregorio Marañón: “…trabajamos con instrumentos imperfectos y con medios de utilidad insegura, pero con la conciencia cierta de que hasta donde no puede llegar el saber, llega siempre el amor”. El humanismo en términos generales se define como “actitud centrada en el interés de lo humano, en el pleno desarrollo y bienestar de lo que el hombre sencillamente es”.