Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Postural Control as Prerequisites of Handwriting for Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

: Children with cerebral palsy shows wide range syndromes of brain disorder related with the motor skills function in activity, physical, and balance limitations. This study reports postural control which includes body awareness in sitting position and movement of hand and arms in handwriting readiness for children with spastic cerebral palsy. A psycho rehabilitative approach was used as an intervention program to improve the child’s basic motor skills. Experiment was conducted in a single subject research with spastic cerebral palsy at age of 6 years old. Pre-test and post-test were designed to see intervention effect on stability in stroking the line and quantity of the stroked lines. Results showed improvement in stability of stroking the lines after six session of intervention. However, the quantity of the stroked line did not meet the expected number. In conclusion the postural control using psycho rehabilitative intervention approach affect handwriting readiness. Further research is needed to define other factors that may be contributed to the ability of making a number of expected lines when the stability has actually achieved. This psycho rehabilitative approach also need to be further conducted in a classroom setting with a longer period of time and a more subject included.
Parental Attitude and Beliefs towards Child Vaccination : Identifying Vaccine Hesitant Groups in a Family Health Center, Erbil City, Iraq

Objectives: The current study was conducted to determine parental hesitancy toward vaccination inside Erbil city, Iraq, and to find associations between the parents’ position towards vaccination and the outcome of immunization. Methods: A descriptive study was done during the period from 1st of January 2014 till 1st of July 2015. The data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. It included two sections: The first section related to the demographic characteristics of clients. The Parent Attitudes Childhood Vaccines (PACV) questionnaire, was used as the second part to detect parents who have concerns about vaccination. Results: Parental position in respect to immunization of their child revealed that 65.3% were unquestioning acceptors, 20.6% were cautious acceptors, 9.9% were hesitant, 3.5% were late or selective vaccinator and only 0.7% were refusal. Immunization behaviors of parents among different groups showed that, 20.9% postponed their child’s vaccination for causes other than sickness or sensitivity, while 73% were provided with immunization on time. More than two thirds (65.9%) were completely sure that, it is a good idea to follow the schedule of immunization for their child and only 26.6% were not sure. Conclusion: The current study showed parents had some positive aspects related to vaccination and defects in some domains were recognized. Identifying these parents is important in order to implement the necessary measures to maintain and improve the vaccines uptake.
MRI Brain Tumour Segmentation Using Hybrid Clustering and Classification by Back Propagation Algorithm

Generally the segmentation refers, the partitioning of an image into smaller regions to identify or locate the region of abnormality. Even though image segmentation is the challenging task in medical applications, due to contrary image, local observations of an image, noise image, non uniform texture of the images and so on. Many techniques are available for image segmentation, but still it requires to introduce an efficient, fast medical image segmentation methods. This research article introduces an efficient image segmentation method based on K means clustering integrated with a spatial Fuzzy C means clustering algorithms. The suggested technique combines the advantages of the two methods. K means segmentation requires minimum computation time, but spatial Fuzzy C means provides high accuracy for image segmentation. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated in terms of accuracy, PSNR and processing time. It also provides good implementation results for MRI brain image segmentation with high accuracy and minimal execution time. After completing the segmentation the of abnormal part of the input MRI brain image, it is compulsory to classify the image is normal or abnormal. There are many classifiers like a self organizing map, Back propagation algorithm, support vector machine etc., The algorithm helps to classify the abnormalities like benign or malignant brain tumour in case of MRI brain image. The abnormality is detected based on the extracted features from an input image. Discrete wavelet transform helps to find the hidden information from the MRI brain image. The extracted features are trained by Back Propagation Algorithm to classify the abnormalities of MRI brain image.
Dosimetric effects of breathing motion in radiotherapy

The goal of radiotherapy is to deliver a homogeneous high dose of radiation to a tumour while minimising the dose to the surrounding healthy tissue. To achieve this, increasingly advanced treatment techniques, such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and proton therapy, have been developed. However, these treatment techniques are sensitive to patient motion, such as breathing, which may degrade the dose distribution to the tumour and healthy tissue. The simultaneous movement of the tumour and treatment delivery may cause unwanted heterogeneities in the dose distribution, so-called interplay effects. Treatment during deep inspiration (DI) could mitigate the motion and lead to favourable anatomical changes in the tumour position with respect to healthy tissue. The aim of the work presented in this thesis was to investigate various effects of breathing motion on the tumour and healthy tissue dose distribution in radiotherapy.Potential healthy tissue dose sparing using DI photon or proton therapy was investigated for left-sided breast cancer and mediastinal Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) by performing comparative treatment planning studies. The use of DI reduced the dose to healthy tissue for left-sided breast cancer patients. It also reduced the healthy tissue dose for most mediastinal HL patients, but the benefits were more patient specific due to large variations in the disease distribution. Protons reduced the dose to healthy tissue for both left-sided breast cancer and mediastinal HL patients compared to photons, regardless of the use of DI.A tool to simulate breathing-motion-induced interplay effects for VMAT was developed and used to investigate how interplay effects vary for different treatment scenarios. The tool was further adapted for use in a more clinical setting to investigate interplay effects for stereotactic VMAT treatment of liver metastases. Interplay effects were shown to negatively affect the dose distribution, resulting in underdosing part of the tumour. The extent of interplay effects depended on the tumour motion and treatment plan characteristics. In conclusion, major dosimetric effects of breathing motion on radiotherapy treatment were demonstrated by the work presented in this thesis. A beneficial effect of reduced healthy tissue dose was observed when the patient used controlled DI. Furthermore, by knowing the breathing-induced motion of the tumour, the treatment delivery parameters can be selected wisely to minimise unwanted interplay effects. Knowledge of the dosimetric effects of breathing motion is important to be able to individually optimise the radiotherapy treatment. (Less)
Research of powders of the cryolyophilized xenoderm of porcine skin

Introduction: Cryolyophilized xenoderm is widely used in the treatment of burn wounds in medical institutions of Ukraine. Therefore, the purpose of this work was to study the properties of the crushed substrate of the cryolyophilized xenoderm of porcine skin to substantiate the possibility and feasibility of using it in pharmaceutical technology for the development of new dosage forms. Methods: Exploring the crushed substrate of the cryolyophilized xenoderm of porcine skin studied fluidity, bulk density, tapped density, Carr index, angle of repose, shape, and particle size; elemental and amino acid composition was determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. Results: The qualitative composition and the quantitative content of macro- and microelements and amino acids in the cryolyophilized xenoderm for epidermis and dermis layer have been defined using microscopic and pharmaco-technological tests for powders. Conclusion: It is determined that the pharmacotechnological properties of the dermis powder have better flowability characteristics than epidermis. The elemental composition of the epidermis and dermis (13 elements) has been studied. Quantitative content of 16 amino acids in the dermis and epidermis has been identified and determined.
Do Products Preventing Demineralization Around Orthodontic Brackets Affect Adhesive Bond Strength?

This study investigated the effects, on the shear bond strength of orthodontic brackets, of using an antimicrobial selenium-containing sealant (DenteShieldTM) to serve dual functions of priming enamel prior to bonding and as a protective barrier against whitespot lesion formation. A total of 150 extracted human premolars were randomly assigned into 10 groups (n=15/group). Stainless steel brackets were bonded with two adhesive systems (DenteShieldTM or Transbond XT) after the enamel was conditioned with a primer (DenteShieldTM or Assure Universal) or a filled resin sealant (DenteShieldTM, Pro SealTM or Opal SealTM). The specimens were stored in deionized water at 37 °C for 24 hours and debonded with a universal testing machine. The use of DenteShieldTM adhesive to bond orthodontic brackets to the enamel surface resulted in a significantly lower (P<0.05), but clinically acceptable, shear bond strength (mean & SD: 14.5±1.6 MPa) as compared with Transbond XT group (mean & SD: 19.3±1.7 MPa). DenteShieldTM sealant used as primer resulted in shear bond strength values comparable to those of Pro SealTM and Opal SealTM. All adhesive-sealant and primer-sealant combinations tested in this study exhibited shear bond strength values greater than 9.6 MPa, sufficient for clinical orthodontic needs. DenteShieldTM sealant can serve as primer as well as anti-demineralization sealant during orthodontic treatment without adversely affecting the shear bond strength of the bracket.
Physical Therapy Assessment and Intervention for Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices

&NA; Implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) has proven to be a viable treatment or alternative for patient's end‐stage CHF who are candidates for heart transplantation. LVAD patients have endstage CHF refractory to maximal inotropic therapy, frequently presenting with multisystem failure. Therefore, achievement of functional goals for bed mobility, transfers, ADLs, and ambulation may be significantly delayed in comparison with uncomplicated postcardiac surgical patients. Outpatient exercise testing and training can be safely and effectively accomplished using symptoms of exercise intolerance, hemodynamic monitoring, and the Borg scale of perceived exertion to guide intensity of exercise. Reassessment following training usually yields only a modest increase in measured oxygen consumption, but submaximal responses are considerably improved. Particular emphasis is given to the proximal lower extremity musculature with the goal of preventing or minimizing post‐transplant steroid myopathy. Additional consideration should be given to the patient's posture, as thoracic kyphosis and absence of trunk rotation are often observed. Although there are additional measures to monitor due to the addition of the LVAD flow and rate parameters, and initial blood pressure response may be variable, LVAD patients generally respond well to graded exercise therapy with adjustments made in exercise based on symptomatic responses. Evidence to date suggests early mobilization and progressive exercise training in this population is safe and improves the transplantation experience.
Role of Left Ventricular Mass Index Versus Left Ventricular Relative Wall Thickness in Assessment of Left Ventricular Geometry in Non Cardioembolic Stroke Patients

In non-cardioembolic stroke patients, the cardiac manifestations of elevated blood pressure are of particular interest. The value of LV geometry in the prediction of cardiovascular risk is controversial. Many reports detected that left ventricular hypertrophy is independently associated with risk of ischemic stroke. The primary objective of this study was to identify the frequency of different patterns of altered left ventricular geometry in patients with non cardioembolic stroke, and to assess whether a significant number of patients will miss the diagnosis of LV remodeling if the left ventricular relative wall thickness(RWT) is not evaluated or reported. 100 patients were referred within 48 hours after an acute non cardioembolic ischemic stroke for a transthoracic echocardiogram. The echocardiographic findings were analyzed. Mean age was 61.86 ± 12.59 years, 45 % men. Concentric remodeling carried the highest frequency (43%), followed by normal pattern (27%), concentric hypertrophy (22%), and eccentric hypertrophy (8%). The frequency of abnormal left ventricular RWT (61.4%) was significantly higher than that of abnormal LVMI.
Pleura and Peritoneum

Background: To analyse the duration of parenteral nutrition (PN) in patients treated for peritoneal malignancy with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) over a 2 year period at a single UK National referral centre. Methods: A retrospective analysis of prospective data for all patients (n= 321) who underwent CRS and HIPEC for peritoneal malignancy at the Peritoneal Malignancy Institute Basingstoke between April 1, 2013 and March 31, 2015. Duration of PN was compared between primary tumour site (appendix, colorectal, mesothelioma and other); completeness of CRS (complete CRS vs. major tumour debulking) and pre-operative nutritional assessment measures (including Mid Upper Arm Circumference). Results: Themedian duration of PNwas 9 days (range 2–87 days). A total of 13% of patients had PN for less than 7 days and 6% for 5 days or less. There was no significant difference in duration of PN between the different tumour sites. Two factors that may increase the duration of PN include having major tumour debulking (MTD) and a baseline MUAC< 23.5 cm. Conclusions: Most patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC for peritoneal malignancy required PN for more than 7 days with poor pre-operative nutritional status and inability to achieve complete cytoreduction predictors of prolonged PN requirements.
Schistosoma mansoni infection and its association with nutrition and health outcomes: a household survey in school-aged children living in Kasansa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Introduction Schistosomiasis (SCH) is an important public health problem in developing countries and school-aged children are the most affected. This study explored health and nutritional status and their correlation with SCH in children attending primary school (3rd to 6th class) living in the area of Kasansa in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods Across-sectional household survey was carried out in Kasansa health area in February 2011. Children whose parents reported to attend primary school (3rd to 6th class) were included. Socio-demographic characteristics, information on morbidity history and risk factor were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. S. mansoni and malaria infection were assessed using the Kato-katz technique and rapid diagnostic test, respectively. Haemoglobin concentration was also performed using a portable HemoControl device. Bivariate and multiple logistic regressions were used to assess risk factors for S. mansoni. Results A total of 197 school aged children participated in the study with a median age of 12 years and 53.8% of them were boys. The overall health status of the children was poor with very high prevalences of S. mansoni infection (89.3%), malaria infection (65.1%), anaemia (61.4%) and stunting (61.0%). Regular contact with river water was the most important risk factor (OR: 11.7; p<0.001) related to SCH infection. A low haemoglobin concentration was significantly associated with a SCH infection (OR: 12.3; p=0.003) and egg load was associated with stunting (OR: 12.4; p=0.04). Children from farmers were more at risk for low school performance (OR: 5.3; p=0.03). Conclusion High prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni and malaria infection was observed in the study population living in Kasansa area. Moreover, they presented a high burden of anaemia, chronic malnutrition and low school performance. An integrated disease control and management of these diseases and their consequences, endorsed by surveillance, is needed.
The Effectiveness of Adding Probiotic to Antimicrobial Agents for the Treatment of Bacterial Vaginosis: a Systematic Review

Background: Common antimicrobial regimens for treating bacterial vaginosis often cause recurrence and bacterial resistance. Previous studies have reported that a combination of antimicrobial and probiotic consisting of Lactobacillus spp. Is an effective treatment for recurrent bacterial vaginosis. Lactobacillus plays an important role in vaginal health by replacing the pathogenic colonies in vagina. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of adding probiotic to antimicrobial therapeutic for the prevention of bacterial vaginosis(BV) recurrence. Subjects and Method: A systematic review was conducted by searching the following databases: PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, Springer Link and the Cochrane. The review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted in primary hospitals and private clinics. The Amsel criteria and Nugent score were used for diagnosis appraisal of bacterial vaginosis. were included in this systematic review consisting of the two types of bacterial vaginosis treatment. All pooled data analyses were based on random-effects models and intention to treat (ITT). Data were analyzed using Rev Man 5 software. Results: The review included 5 RCTs involving 692 women on reproductive age underwent treatment of BV for 5 days or more.The studies showed that combination of probiotic and antimicrobial treatment reduced the risk of bacterial vaginosis recurrence a half time compared to antimicrobial treatment alone(RR= 0.49; 95% CI= 0.17 to 1.44). Conclusion: Adding probiotic to antimicrobial regimens is more effective than antimicrobial regimens alone for treating bacterial vaginosis recurrence. Keywords: probiotic, antimicrobial, bacterial vaginosis recurrence, randomized controlled trial Correspondence: Aquartuti Tri Darmayanti. Masters Program in Public Health, Sebelas Maret University, Jl. Ir. Sutami 36 A, Surakarta 57126, Central Java. Email: tutiaquar@gmail.com. Mobile: +6281329380114. Indonesian Journal of Medicine (2017), 2(3): 161-168 https://doi.org/10.26911/theijmed.2017. 02.03. 03
Osteoarthritis of the Hip Joint

The incidence of osteoarthritis of the hip is increasing internationally. With the population becoming older and the rates of obesity increasing on a global scale, we are seeing more traumatic and idiopathic degeneration of the native hip joint. The pathological processes occurring in the hip have been described at a macroscopic and microscopic level. The inability of surface hyaline cartilage to heal is one of the major contributors to the irreversible nature of degeneration once it begins. Many classification systems have been described to characterise the extent of disease. History and examination play a pivotal role in the management algorithm. The goals of treatment are to improve pain, function and quality of life. Numerous non-operative treatments exist as do many operative interventions. Total hip arthroplasty is arguably the most successful operation developed in orthopaedic surgery to date. We discuss the condition of osteoarthritis as it pertains to the hip and we consider the patients ’ course from onset of symptoms through their investigation up to their definitive management.
Laryngeal lipoma: a rare cause of hoarseness

The incidence of lipoma in the laryngeal region is rare. Here we report a case of left false cord lipoma in a 78 years old man who presented with hoarseness for 2 years. Clinically, a bulge with a smooth surface was seen at the left false cord. Intraoperatively, the specimen taken from the left false cord appeared yellowish and was floating on normal saline solution giving a suspect to lipoma. Histologically, the tumors composed of mature adipose tissue. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well with no signs of recurrence.
Biochemical composition of some common seaweeds from Lakshadweep

﻿Studies were made on protein, carbohydrate and lipid from 28 marine algae from Lakshadweep Islands. The protein content ranged from 0.1 to 18.9% in green algae, 4.6 to 12.2% brown algae and 2.7 to 13.1% in red algae. The carbohydrate content was from 0.5 to 15.846, 1.5 to 13.0% and 2.0 to 29.4% in gMn, brown and red algae respectively. The lipid content varied from 2.6 to 13.8% in green algae, 2.2 to 8.3% in brown algae and 3.1 to 8.3% in red algae.
Identifying factors associated with the uptake of home dialysis: Observational study methodology

Background: The use of home dialysis has been declining in Australia, despite the considerable advantages for patients. Little is known about the factors that contribute to the successful uptake of home dialysis, although increased utility costs have been identified as one possible factor affecting the decision to take up home dialysis. Objectives: This Australian multicentre observational study will identify factors that either facilitate or inhibit the uptake of home dialysis from patients' perspectives, including the evaluation of whether the current levels of financial support impacts on their decision. Design: Factors influencing decisions about home or hospital dialysis will be explored from the patients' perspective through survey and interviews. Initially, participants will be recruited from participating dialysis centres and invited to complete a survey. Staff will collect clinical data for all those participating. A subsection of patients will be invited to participate in an individual interview or focus group to gather more information. Participants: Participants will be recruited from dialysis centres affiliated with the HOME Network, a national initiative to engage health care professionals in the field of home dialysis. Measurements: Combining the analysis of individual and group data that is both reported and observed will offer an in-depth understanding of patients' perception of home dialysis that will inform policy and practice at both participating centres and in the broader clinical community.