This case study details a Dharma practitioner's journey in using spiritual practices to help her father overcome severe, long-term urticaria. Her father's condition, which began after killing and consuming live aquatic animals, gradually worsened despite extensive treatments with both Western and traditional Chinese medicine. When these interventions failed, the practitioner turned to the Guan Yin Citta Dharma Door, implementing the Three Golden Buddhist Practices. She dedicated herself to reciting Buddhist scriptures on her father's behalf, while he progressively adopted vegetarianism and Buddhist practices. Ultimately, he experienced a profound, lasting improvement in his skin condition, which doctors had previously deemed incurable. This case highlights the potential role of Dharma in addressing karmic illnesses and its significance in treating conditions viewed as spiritual or karmic in origin.
Objective: Hepatitis B and C viruses (HBV, HCV), as well as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), are capable of replicating in lymphoid tissues. These infections can lead to chronic antigenic stimulation, which may be linked to the development of lymphoproliferative disorders. This study aims to explore the serological status of Hepatitis B, C, and HIV in lymphoma patients. Methods: In this study, medical records of lymphoma patients diagnosed between 2022 and 2024 were reviewed to record parameters such as HBsAg, Anti-HBs, Anti-HBc IgG, Anti-HCV, Anti-HIV. Results: The average age of the 59 patients was 60.6 ± 15.3 years, and 37.3% were women. Of the 59 patients, 41(69.5%) were treated with chemotherapy including Rituximab (rtx). Among the patients, 6 (10.1%) were HBsAg positive, 22 (37.2%) were HBsAg negative with Anti-HBc (+) detected. Of the 28 patients with HBsAg (+) and/or Anti-HBc IgG (+), 24 had received rtx treatment, and antiviral therapy was administered to 20 of them. One of these patients experienced HBV reactivation during follow-up. A false positive result for Anti-HCV was observed in one patient (1.7%). HIV positivity was detected in 3 patients (5%). Conclusıon: These findings indicate that the seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and HIV in lymphoma patients in our center is higher than in the general population. Therefore, HBV and HIV tests should be performed before initiating treatment in lymphoma patients. These patients should be evaluated for the risk of HBV reactivation, and appropriate prophylaxis should be planned.
CASE REPORT | Dec. 12, 2024
A Case of Sporadic Desmoid Fibromatosis of the Appendix: A Rare Site of Presentation
Hazwa Karathanathodi Hamza, Nausheen Yaqoob, Asim Qureshi, Mirza Amanullah Beg, Prashant Deshpande, Ibrahim Al Haddabi
Page no 260-265 |
https://doi.org/10.36348/sjpm.2024.v09i12.002
Background: Desmoid fibromatosis is a locally aggressive benign fibroblastic soft tissue tumor representing nearly 0.03% of all neoplasms. They can be sporadic or may be associated with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Around 50% of fibromatosis are intrabdominal or arise in the abdominal wall. Rarely, these tumors can arise from the intestinal wall. Appendix and mesoappendix are extremely rare sites of presentation with only 3 reported cases. Case Presentation: A healthy 43-year-old male presented with abdomen distension. CECT scan showed a well-defined enhancing mass in the lower abdomen attached to the appendix with no surrounding infiltration, fat stranding, or evidence of distant metastasis. A wide resection was performed, and gross examination showed a well-circumscribed mass measuring 8 cm attached to the appendix. Histological examination revealed a well-circumscribed cellular spindle cell neoplasm with focal infiltrative borders. The tumor cells showed nuclear immunoreactivity for Beta-catenin and focally for Desmin, while they were negative for DOG1, CD117, CD34, STAT6, S100 & Pan Cytokeratin. The morphology and immunohistochemistry were compatible with Desmoid fibromatosis. CT scans were negative for recurrence or distant metastases after 8 months of follow-up. Conclusion: Appendix and mesoappendix desmoid fibromatosis are extremely rare and can present as an abdominal mass or features of acute appendicitis. Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is an important differential diagnosis at this site and is crucial to differentiate from fibromatosis for patient management and follow-up. Identifying beta-Catenin (CTNNB1) mutation is a diagnostic criterion to differentiate from other spindle cell tumors, especially on small biopsies. Multi-disciplinary treatment approach is crucial for management.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Dec. 12, 2024
Empirical Path Loss Characterization for Zigbee Wireless Sensor Networks in Cassava Farms Using a Dual-Slope Log-Distance Model
Iyaomolere, B. A, Popoola, J. J, Akingbade, K. F
Page no 529-540 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjet.2024.v09i12.002
This research addresses the significant challenge of unreliable wireless communication, which hinders the performance of ZigBee-based wireless sensor networks (WSNs) in precision agriculture. A dual-slope log-distance path loss model was developed to accurately predict signal propagation complexities in dense vegetative environments for improved wireless communication. The study was conducted on a cassava farm in Ondo State, Nigeria, characterized by vegetation heights of 1.8 meters, making it an ideal site for investigation. A systematic methodology was employed, incorporating radio frequency measurements in both line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions. This involved deploying two XBee S2C modules operating at 2.4 GHz, with one designated as a coordinator and the other as a router. The collection of Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and throughput data occurred at 5 meter intervals, with variations in the router's orientation. Results revealed a maximum communication range of 70 meters under non-line-of-sight conditions, compared to 140 meters in line-of-sight scenarios, where the path loss exponent was determined to be 1.78. The path loss exponents for the cassava fields were found to be 2.55 and 4.25. The developed dual-slope path loss model showed a strong fit to additional empirical data from a separate cassava farm location, achieving a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 3.30 % and an R-squared value of 0.94. Hence, this model offers a comprehensive framework for characterizing radio wave propagation in agricultural environments, enhancing data transmission reliability and energy efficiency in smart farming applications.
CASE REPORT | Dec. 12, 2024
Open Abdominal Metroplasty for the Treatment of Uterine Septum in a Woman with Uterine Factor Infertility- A Case Report
Dr Ayodeji Kayode Adefemi, Dr Chidinma Magnus Nwogu, Dr Omisakin Sunday Isaac, Dr Aloy Okechukwu Ugwu, Dr Adebayo Awoniyi, Dr Chioma E Obodo, Uzoma Chinedu Ifezue
Page no 623-626 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sijog.2024.v07i12.006
Anomalies of the Paramesonephric duct is a group of congenital malformations that occur either from the failure to complete bilateral Mullerian duct elongation, fusion, duct canalization, or resorption of the septum. Septate uterus is the commonest of these anomalies and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes especially miscarriages. Metroplasty has been associated with improved pregnancy outcomes with hysteroscopic resection been the preferred approach currently. Open abdominal metroplasty is a useful alternative in low resource set-up or where facilities for hysteroscopy is not readily available or not affordable. The need for this case report is to document the case of a complete uterine septum in a 31-year-old woman with three previous miscarriages who had open abdominal metroplasty and subsequent pregnancy with good outcome.
The purpose of this research was to assess the challenges facing students when using the school library in Zanzibar. The study was conducted in Zanzibar West “A” District, Unguja. It involved three public secondary schools. This study used a qualitative method and employing a descriptive case study design. The objective of the study was to assess the challenges students face when using the school library. Data was collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and observations from 48 respondents selected from schools in the West “A” District in Zanzibar. The findings of the study revealed the usage of school libraries was low due to the various challenges facing students in using school libraries in Zanzibar, including shortage of resources, insufficient reading space, shortage of facilities in reading rooms, limited designated time for library usage, poor customer service from librarians, limited library hours, and shortage of librarians. The study recommends that schools be supported in establishing well-equipped, furnished, and resource-rich libraries to encourage students to enjoy visiting and utilizing these spaces for reading books and accessing informational materials.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Dec. 12, 2024
Unraveling the Toxic Effects of Sodium Fluoride on Kidneys of Male Japanese Quails (Coturnix japonica)
Muhammad Junaid Akram Danish, Wajeeha Afzal, Ghazanfar Abbas, Ejaz Hussain, Dosdar Ali, Muhammad Shoaib Riaz, Hassan Raza, Amir Khan, Muhammad Nadeem
Page no 505-511 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjls.2024.v09i12.002
Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture soils to distroy various pathogens. During the late 1950s and early 1960s, the media in Western Europe and North America extensively covered the issue of birds on agricultural land being poisoned by aldrin, dieldrin, and heptachlor, which were commonly used as seed dressings. To highlight this issue, an experiment was performed to examine the effects of sodium fluoride on Japanes quail growth, biochemical and histology of kidney. In the present work, forty-eight sexually male Japanese quail, weighing 105gm, were used, divided in 4 equal groups as A, B, C & D having 12 quails in every group. Quails were acclimatized for two weeks. After acclimatization experimental treatments were applied to their respective groups. Duration of experiment was 30 days. Sodium fluoride was given to quails orally with the help of gavage on daily basis. Quails in group C handled with 3.75mg/kg dose and group D handled with 5.0mg/kg dose showed significant changes in physical, biochemical and renal parameters as compared to control group. These treatments also cause significant reduction in final weight of birds. Birds in groups B with 2.5 mg/kg dose showed non-significant results. On 3.75mg/kg exposure, the highest accretion of fluoride occurred in the kidney. Sodium fluoride exposure significantly increased the kidney injury and other renal biomarkers. The histopathological variations such as necrosis of parenchymal cells, congestion and hemorrhage varied in dose dependent manner of sodium fluoride.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Dec. 12, 2024
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Nurses in Caring for Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Emad Ahmed Hakami, Ahlam Hassan Alsomali, Michelle Gretchen Lo
Page no 381-389 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjnhc.2024.v07i12.006
Background: Nurses play a vital role in caring for patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for severe respiratory or cardiac failure. However, this area of nursing practice presents unique challenges. Accordingly, understanding these challenges is essential to improve patient care and support nurses' well-being. Aims: This study aimed to investigate and identify challenges nurses face in providing care to patients on ECMO. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional study of eligible nurses was conducted at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh City (KFSH&RC-R). A survey instrument developed by the principal investigators was used to collect data. A panel of ECMO specialists and clinical experts validated the survey content. Results: A total of 66 nurses (75.8% females, 60.6% aged 25–34 years, 33.3% with 1–5 years of nursing experience, and 87.9% holding a bachelor's degree in nursing) participated in the study. The identified challenges were managing complex equipment, maintaining stability, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, addressing ethical dilemmas, managing high acuity, coping with stress, and prioritizing self-care. Conclusions: These findings highlight the multifaceted challenges nurses face in caring for patients on ECMO, which influence their well-being, job satisfaction, and the quality of care provided. Thus, interventional strategies to address these issues in this specialized area are urgently required.
A concept analysis is an in-depth examination of a phenomenon of interest as it relates to various disciplines. The literature lacks a clear definition of the concept of novice faculty; therefore, the purpose of this paper is to analyze and develop an operational definition of novice faculty through the methodology of Walker and Avant (2011). A literature search was conducted using four selected databases: PsycINFO, Computers and Applied Sciences, CINAHL, and ERIC, resulting in a total of 19 articles chosen and reviewed. Based on this concept, attributes, antecedents, and consequences were applied, as displayed in the concept map. A model case demonstrates all the defining attributes of the concept. Additionally, borderline and contrary cases are provided to illustrate distinctions among defining attributes. The analysis led to the following definition: A novice faculty member is a neophyte who works in a new culture and lacks experience in both theoretical and practical skills associated with the nurse educator role in the academic environment. The importance of the novice concept to the profession of nursing is highlighted through its implications for nursing science, education, and practice. The outcome of this analysis—the development of a conceptual definition of novice faculty—should be viewed not as a finished product but as a foundational step toward understanding the concept.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Dec. 10, 2024
A Study on Clinical Characteristics of Cirrhotic Patients in Bangladesh
Dr. Md. Shayedul Ashik, Dr. Irfat Yasmin, Professor Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab, Dr. Muhammad Rezaul Karim, Dr. Arifa Tasnim, Dr. Md. Arif Uddin Sumon
Page no 906-911 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i12.005
Background: Cirrhosis is a chronic liver condition characterized by significant morbidity and mortality. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a neuropsychiatric complication of cirrhosis, is associated with vitamin D deficiency, which may exacerbate liver dysfunction. Understanding the clinical and laboratory characteristics of cirrhotic patients with and without HE is crucial for improving management strategies. Objective: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of cirrhotic patients and investigate the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and the severity of HE. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, from December 2019 to August 2020. A total of 54 cirrhotic patients were divided into two groups: 27 with HE (cases) and 27 without HE (controls). Clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory parameters, including serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, were assessed. Data analysis involved chi-square tests, t-tests, and ANOVA, with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of participants was 50.2 years, with a male predominance (63%). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were significantly lower in patients with HE (6.6 ± 2.1 ng/ml) compared to controls (13.6 ± 4.2 ng/ml; p < 0.0001). Vitamin D levels decreased progressively with higher HE grades. Cases exhibited significantly higher serum bilirubin, prothrombin time, INR, Child-Pugh scores, and MELD scores than controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is strongly associated with the severity of HE in cirrhotic patients. Lower vitamin D levels correspond to higher grades of encephalopathy, emphasizing its potential role in HE pathophysiology. Future studies should explore the therapeutic implications of vitamin D supplementation in this population.
SUBJECT CATEGORY: MATHEMATICS | Dec. 10, 2024
A Note on Lie Algebra of Killing Vector Fields of Locally Rotationally Symmetric Bianchi Type-I Spacetime in f(Q)-Gravity
Fakhar Alam, Muhammad Ramzan, Muhammad Arslan Rafiq Khokhar, Sajid Ali, Muhammad Kashif, Sofia Batool
Page no 245-253 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sb.2024.v10i10.001
The goal of this paper is to derive the Lie algebra of Killing vector fields for the locally rotationally symmetric Bianchi type-I spacetime within the framework of f(Q) gravity, where f(Q) gravity is a modified gravitational theory that extends General Relativity by introducing a function of the non-metricity tensor Q to explore alternative models of gravity. To achieve this, various algebraic methods and direct integration techniques are employed. Different metric functions are analyzed, and the associated Killing vectors are determined for each case. It is observed that the spacetime under investigation can support either4, 6, or 10 Killing vector fields.
Background: Ectopic pregnancy (EP), where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterine cavity, is a significant contributor to first-trimester maternal morbidity and mortality, especially in low-resource settings. Understanding region-specific risk factors, clinical presentations, and management outcomes is critical for developing effective healthcare strategies. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients diagnosed with EP at Monno Medical College and Hospital, Manikganj, Bangladesh from January, 2022 to January, 2024. Patient data, including demographic information, clinical history, risk factors, and management strategies, were collected retrospectively from medical records. Management approaches, including medical (methotrexate) and surgical interventions, were analyzed for effectiveness and patient outcomes using SPSS version 26. Ethical approval was obtained, and all patient data were anonymized. Results: Most patients (30%) were aged 26-30 years, and marital status was significantly associated with EP (p = 0.048). History of PID and previous ectopic pregnancy were reported in 35% and 20% of patients, respectively, with significant associations (p = 0.015 and p = 0.040). Methotrexate was administered in 40% of cases, showing significant success (p = 0.025). Surgical interventions, including salpingectomy and laparoscopy, were performed in 35% and 25% of cases, respectively, and significantly associated with positive outcomes. Tubal preservation was achieved in 55% of patients, while tubal loss occurred in 45%. Complications, such as the need for blood transfusions (15%) and hospital readmission (8%), underscore the critical nature of EP management. Conclusion: This study highlights significant risk factors and clinical presentations of EP in a Bangladeshi population, with effective management outcomes observed for both medical and surgical interventions. Improved diagnostic access and timely intervention are essential to reduce EP-related morbidity and enhance reproductive outcomes in low-resource settings.
ORIGINAL RESEARCH ARTICLE | Dec. 10, 2024
Clinical Characteristics of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Cirrhotic Patient
Dr. Muhammad Razaul Karim, Prof. Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab, Dr. Farjana Akhter Dina, Dr, Emon Jarin, Dr. Md. Delowar Hossain, Dr. Md. Shayedul Ashik, Dr. Md. Atiqul Islam
Page no 912-917 |
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36348/sjmps.2024.v10i12.006
Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with a strong association with chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. In cirrhotic patients, the overlapping clinical manifestations of HCC and underlying liver dysfunction complicate timely diagnosis and management. Understanding the clinical characteristics of HCC in this population is essential for improving outcomes. Objective: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of HCC in cirrhotic patients, focusing on differences in liver function, demographic profiles, and etiological factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, between December 2019 and August 2020. The study included 66 participants divided into two groups: cirrhotic patients with HCC (n=33) and cirrhotic patients without HCC (n=33). Data were collected through clinical, biochemical, and radiological assessments, with HCC diagnosis confirmed via fine-needle aspiration. Statistical analysis included t-tests, Chi-square tests, and ROC analysis. Results: The mean age of HCC patients was 49.85 ± 14.40 years, with 87.9% male predominance, similar to the cirrhosis group (mean age: 46.15 ± 11.06 years, 72.7% male). Significant differences were observed in prothrombin time (p=0.002), INR (p<0.001), and serum albumin (p=0.009), indicating relatively preserved liver function in HCC patients. HCC patients predominantly fell into Child-Pugh class B (54.5%), whereas cirrhotic patients were more commonly class C (39.4%, p=0.037). Hepatitis B virus (HBV) was the leading etiological factor in both groups, with HBsAg detected in 84.8% of HCC and 93.9% of cirrhotic patients. Conclusion: HCC in cirrhotic patients presents with distinct clinical and biochemical profiles, including better-preserved liver function and higher serum albumin levels compared to cirrhotic patients without HCC. The high prevalence of HBV in the region underscores the need for targeted surveillance and early intervention strategies. Further multicenter studies are recommended to validate these findings and enhance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
This work explores the optimum tensile strength and hardness of AISI 1018 low carbon steel plate welded joint using an E7018 electrode. The effect of metal metal arc welding process parameters namely; welding current and welding travel speed on AISI 1018 low carbon steel samples. The optimum performance of weld joints has been assessed based on the ultimate tensile strength and hardness of welded joints considering the welding current and travel speed variation. Taguchi-based L4 orthogonal array has been considered for the design of the experiment. The welding parameters on Tensile strength and Hardness of AISI 1018 low carbon steel plate welded joints were evaluated. The results show that there was no significant effect in current variation from 80A to 100A on the Ultimate Tensile strength and hardness of AISI 1018 low carbon steel plate with an average UTS and hardness of 434MPa and 122, respectively. However, it seemed that the welding travel speed of 20 to 21 mm/s, slightly affected the ultimate tensile strength and the hardness.
Background: Cystic hygroma is a congenital lymphatic malformation frequently associated with chromosomal abnormalities, hydrops fetalis, and high fetal mortality. Diagnosed predominantly in the first trimester, late-detected cases often present severe complications and poor prognosis, particularly in low-resource settings with limited access to advanced diagnostic modalities. Case Presentation: We report the case of a 30-year-old third gravida woman in Bangladesh who presented at over 24 weeks’ gestation with amenorrhea and a prenatal ultrasound indicative of cystic hygroma, pleural effusion, and oligohydramnios. Initial ultrasound findings included a large cystic mass at the fetal neck, pleural effusion, and body hyperflexion, suggestive of fetal hydrops and cystic hygroma. Serial ultrasounds confirmed persistent cystic hygroma, increased pleural effusion, and ascites, alongside declining amniotic fluid levels. Limited access to genetic testing restricted comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. The case highlights the high-risk nature of late-diagnosed cystic hygroma, especially where resource constraints limit available interventions. Conclusion: This case underscores the poor prognosis of cystic hygroma in advanced gestation, emphasizing the importance of early screening, regular prenatal visits, and improved access to genetic counseling and non-invasive diagnostic technologies. Future research should prioritize affordable diagnostic tools for low-resource healthcare environments to support timely diagnosis and management.