bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health evaluation: the level of implantation of the tuberculosis program in primary health care
Authors: Silva Sandy Yasmine Bezerra e , Brito Ewerton William Gomes , Silva Maria de Lourdes Costa da , Beraldo Aline Ale , Souza Nilba Lima de , Pinto Érika Simone Galvão
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study is to analyze the level of implantation of the Tuberculosis Control Program in Primary Health Care in a medium-sized city. Normative evaluation study, with a quantitative approach, emphasizing the level of implantation of programs. The sample included 80 nurses and data collection took place from November 2017 to March 2018, using a questionnaire with 62 questions. To identify the level of implantation, the percentage of responses identified was distributed in four classifications: not implanted (from 0% to 25%); incipient (from 26% to 50%); partially implanted (from 51% to 75%) and implanted (from 76% to 100%). The Tuberculosis Control Program in the city was classified as partially implanted (62.85%). The dimensions Structure and Process were also evaluated as being in the same level (61.80% and 63.17%, respectively). The level of implantation of the program was classified as partially implanted, showing shortcomings with regard to the activities developed in the city. Health professionals are expected to make decisions to improve the program.
Factors associated with COVID-19 in hospitalized Brazilian patients
Authors: Almeida Ítalo Lennon Sales de , Garces Thiago Santos , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Carvalho Rhanna Emanuela Fontenele Lima de , Chaves Edna Maria Camelo , Sousa George Jó Bezerra , Pereira Maria Lúcia Duarte , Cestari Virna Ribeiro Feitosa , Damasceno Lara Lídia Ventura
Published: December 2023

To estimate the prevalence of confirmed cases of COVID-19 and their associated factors in hospitalized Brazilian patients. The study analyzed 757,657 reported cases between February 26th and October 9th, 2020. The chi-square test and a Poisson multivariate regression model with a robust variance estimator were used to identify the prevalence and confidence intervals, considering p<0.05 as significant. COVID-19 diagnosis increased by 0.34% with increasing age and was 5% lower in male patients. The diagnosis increased with increasing education, and the disease was 17% more frequent among participants with higher education.Nosological characteristics were associated with the diagnosis, increasing by 32% in patients with anosmia, 28% among those with fever, 26% in obese patients, 14% in patients with diabetes, 5% in patients with heart disease, and 2.7% in those with oxygen saturation below 95%. A high prevalence of COVID-19 cases and a statistical association with clinical and sociodemographic variables were detected.
Evaluation of the RT-LAMP/CRISPR-Cas12 diagnostic method for SARS-COV-2
Authors: Peduti Graziela Parente , Diniz Michely Correia
Published: December 2023

Brazil is one of the countries that least performs detection tests for SARS-COV-2, even though diagnosing cases is the most effective way to control epidemics, which is crucial to guide public policies. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the RT-LAMP/CRISPR-Cas12 detection method using synthetic and natural SARS-COV-2 sequences. A total of 84 reactions of RT-LAMP/CRISPR-Cas12 resulted in the colorimetric results: 55 reactions turned pink, 18 turned orange, and 11 turned yellow. This result showed that, in the RT-LAMP colorimetric criterion, most reactions (65.4%) were classified as negative, followed by inconclusive (21.4%), and a minority (13%) was classified as positive. The colorimetric results showed instabilities such as reaction sensitivity to heating and ambient temperatures at the reaction preparation site. The use of CRISPR/Cas12 proved unnecessary in this experiment and for the RT-LAMP methodology since its reagent is used only for the detection mix and for lateral flow strip analysis. The flow/detection strips in this experiment were ineffective for a retest as they were dependent on the Reporter reagent solution, and their result was not validated with the presence or absence of genetic material.
Hepatitis C: sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients treated with direct-acting antivirals in a pharmaceutical office
Authors: Pegoraro Karem Aline , Folador Edson Luiz , Bertolini Dennis Armando , Campanha Angela Maria
Published: December 2023

To report the sociodemographic and clinical profile of patients treated with direct-action antivirals (DAAs). Patients infected with hepatitis C virus in current treatment were followed up in a pharmaceutical office. Sociodemographic, clinical and medicines uses characteristics were obtained. A total of 62 patients were enrolled, with a higher proportion of men, aged between 40 and 69 years, low schooling, and workers. Were predominant the HCV virus genotype 1 (45.2%) and 3 (48.4%), and 19.4% were cirrhotic. Of the referred comorbidities, stood out those diseases related to the cardiovascular system (19.8%), psychiatric disorders (17.6%), endocrine and metabolic disorders (14.5%). Co-infections represented 5.2%, and were distributed between acute hepatitis A (1.0%), chronic viral hepatitis B (2.1%), and HIV (2.1%). Previous or current use of licit / illicit substances was reported by 33.9% of patients. A significant difference was identified in the youngest age group (25 to 39 years, p = 0.02), with a lower average viral load compared to the other age groups. The pharmacotherapeutic follow-up carried out in the period resulted in 157 pharmaceutical consultations. Patients with hepatitis C using DDAs were mostly men, aged between 40 and 69 years. Type 3 HCV genotype was most frequently identified. The presence of cirrhosis and other comorbidities serves as an alert for health professionals in the implementation of public health policies.
Uso de agrotóxicos na agricultura familiar: percepção de risco e comportamento dos agricultores familiares do Vale do Salitre, Juazeiro-BA
Authors: Souza Israel Vieira de , Silva Tâmara Almeida e , Pinheiro Francisco Alves
Published: December 2023

Atualmente a agricultura apresenta dependência do uso de agrotóxicos em campo, inclusive na agricultura de base familiar. Tal situação traz um alerta sobre como esses produtos químicos estão sendo utilizados e sobre os seus efeitos quanto à saúde do trabalhador e quanto ao meio ambiente. Nesse sentido, o presente trabalho visou avaliar os conhecimentos, as atitudes e as práticas dos agricultores familiares da União das Associações do Vale do Salitre (UAVS), no que diz respeito à utilização segura dos agrotóxicos e ao descarte das embalagens vazias. Foram aplicados questionários semiestruturados, através de entrevistas, para 31 agricultores familiares, maiores de 18 anos e que faziam uso de agrotóxicos. Os questionários tratavam de questões relacionadas ao processo produtivo, uso de agrotóxicos, comportamentos dos agricultores em relação aos agrotóxicos e descarte das embalagens. Os dados foram tratados através da estatística descritiva, aplicação do método de agrupamento de Ward e coeficiente de correlação de Person. Os resultados mostram que a maior parte dos agricultores familiares fazem uso de 2 ou 3 agrotóxicos diferentes e não respeitam o período de carência para novas aplicações. Apesar da boa percepção de risco, uma vez que 100% dos agricultores afirmaram que os agrotóxicos podem causar prejuízos para a sua saúde, apenas 61% deles fazem uso de algum EPI. Foi possível observar que existe uma correlação negativa (-0,36152), com significância de 5%, entre a idade dos agricultores e o número de agrotóxicos utilizados. Em relação a destinação das embalagens vazias de agrotóxicos, verificou-se que apenas 10% dos participantes faziam a devolução das embalagens aos postos de venda. É possível afirmar que a percepção de risco dos agricultores participantes não se traduz em comportamentos seguros no manejo dos agrotóxicos. Logo, é necessária a implantação de programas de treinamentos contínuos que abordem questões relativas à produção, comercialização, proteção individual e proteção ambiental nessa região.
Evaluation of Interfacial Thermal Resistance of Al-Si Alloy by Using Image-Based Simulation
Authors: Sugio Kenjiro , Ishii Tomoyasu , Sasaki Gen
Published: December 2023

Interfacial thermal resistances of Al-Si alloys were evaluated by comparing the measured thermal conductivities and the simulated thermal conductivities. Al-7%Si, Al-18%Si and Al-18%Si held in the solid-liquid coexistence temperature for 90 minutes were fabricated by gravity casting. Thermal conductivities were measured with the steady state thermal conductivity measuring device. Thermal conductivities were also simulated by using optical microscope images. Comparing the measured thermal conductivities and the simulated thermal conductivities, interfacial thermal resistances in Al-Si interfaces were evaluated as about 2.5-4.8×10-9m2K/W.
Monkey tapeworm (Bertiella studeri) infection in a toddler
Authors: Bandara P. K. B. U. C. , Dayasiri Kavinda
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
Hypopharyngeal foreign body impaction presenting late as acute onset torticollis due to retropharyngeal abscess formation in a child
Authors: Sooreakumar Arabi , Dissanayake D. M. D. T. , Wijenayake Wasana , Bandara P. K. B. U. C. , Dayasiri Kavinda , Mettananda Sachith
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
An unusual case of arthropod dermatosis: A disorder of Cydnidae pigmentation (the burrowing bug)
Authors: Ramanan Apparanjitha V. , Krithika A. P. , Sundari S.
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
First reported case of pentalogy of Cantrell in Sri Lanka
Authors: Withana A. P. H. , Samarasinghe D. , Ragunathan I. R. , Singappuli K. , Ubaithullah Y. , Lucas Nishani
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
Usage patterns of electronic devices for communication and prevalence of nomophobia among General Certificate of Education Advanced Level students in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Authors: Liyanaarachchi H. G. , Samaranayake D. L. , Vinod H. L. , Jayawardana M. S. , Wickramasinghe V. P.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Nomophobia is becoming an increasing concern as a result of inappropriate use of electronic communication devices.Objectives: To describe the pattern of use of electronic communication devices and the prevalence of nomophobia among General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level (A/L) students in Colombo Educational Zone.Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from January to March 2020 in six of the randomly selected government and government approved private schools within the Colombo Education Zone. A self-administered questionnaire including a culturally adapted nomophobia-questionnaire was used. Data were analysed using SPSS-20.Results: Of 337 students, 336 (99.7%) were regularly using a device for communication, the most preferred (n=319) being mobile phone; 213 owned a mobile phone; 60.4% were spending ≥2 hours/day with these devices, 10.1% spending >5 hours/day. Common uses of devices were listening to music (96.7%), taking photos (85.4%), sending text messages (84.8%) and academic activities (84.5%). Prevalence of moderate and severe nomophobia was 49.8% and 34.2% respectively. Prevalence of severe nomophobia was significantly higher in females (p<0.001) and those studying in grade 13 (p=0.036), government schools (p=0.002), Sinhala-medium (p=0.017) and Science stream (p=0.024).Conclusions:  Among GCE A/L students in Colombo, Sri Lanka, 99.7% were regularly using a device for communication. Prevalence of moderate and severe nomophobia was 49.8% and 34.2% respectively.
Phosphorus abnormalities in a paediatric intensive care unit in North India
Authors: Vijaywargiya Taruna , Maurya Satyajeet , Mohapatra Sitikant
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Critical illness triggers severe acute phase response which is associated with several metabolic derangements. Serum phosphorus level abnormalities are common among them and go unnoticed in sick children.Objectives: To determine the prevalence of phosphorus abnormalities in sick children admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and its association with various clinical outcomes.Method: We conducted a prospective, non-interventional study at a PICU in North India. During an 18-month period we investigated the incidence of phosphorus abnormalities in patients admitted to the PICU on admission and followed the course at day 3 and day 7 during their stay.Results: The prevalence of phosphorus level abnormalities was 44.2% on admission to PICU; 34.9% patients had hypophosphataemia while 9.3% had hyperphosphataemia. Hypophosphataemia was significantly associated with severe malnutrition (p=0.041) while hyperphosphataemia was associated with organ failure (p=<0.001). Although the need for mechanical ventilation, duration of PICU stay and mortality were higher in hypophosphataemic patients and PRISM score was higher in hyperphosphataemic patients, these differences were not statistically significant. Changes in the baseline phosphorus levels after PICU stays of 3 days (p=0.346) and of 7 days (p=0.782) were not statistically significant.Conclusions: Phosphorus abnormalities were highly prevalent in ill children admitted in the PICU. Hypophosphatemia was more common and was significantly associated with severe malnutrition while hyperphosphatemia was significantly associated with organ failure.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on educational, psychosocial and behavioural aspects of children: An alert for parents  
Authors: Akhil Chitturi Venkata Sai , Pandi Mounica Gudavalli Ramya
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
‘Rogue Medicines’: The absolute pits of the world
Authors: Perera B. J. C.
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
The Legacy of late Professor Chandra Kumari Abeysekera: A lady like no other
Authors: Perera B. J. C.
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
QT interval prolongation in Takotsubo syndrome: a frightening feature with no major prognostic impact
Authors: Pinho Ana Isabel , Oliveira Cátia , Santos Luís Daniel , Marques Catarina , Cabrita André , Dias Paula , Pestana Gonçalo , Sousa Carla , Rodrigues Rui André
Published: December 2023

Despite the frequent and often severe repolarization abnormalities seen in Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), the underlying mechanism of life-threatening arrhythmias is incompletely understood, and the risk remains uncertain. TTS is considered a potential cause of acquired long QT syndrome; however, there is no robust evidence that QT prolongation has a major prognostic impact on these patients’ outcomes. Our aim was to assess the prevalence and clinical implications of acquired long QT during TTS events and compare in-hospital and long-term outcomes between patients with and without corrected QT interval (QTc) prolongation. This is a retrospective cohort study that included 113 patients admitted to our tertiary care hospital with a diagnosis of TTS. The cohort was divided into two groups: a long QTc group (QTc≥460 milliseconds in any electrocardiogram at admission or during hospitalization) and a normal QTc group. Baseline characteristics, occurrences during hospitalization, and outcome data were obtained from the revision of medical registries and hospital visits. Of the 113 patients, 107 (94.7%) were female. The mean age was 67.6±11.7 years. QTc prolongation was found in 38%. Demographic characteristics, relevant chronic medication, prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, and other comorbidities were similar between the groups, except for history of atrial fibrillation, which was more common in the long QTc group. Syncope was more prevalent in the long QTc group. In-hospital complications were not statistically different between patients with long and normal QTc (48.8% versus 44.2%, p=0.637), including ventricular arrhythmias and complete atrioventricular block (both 4.7% versus 1.4%, p=0.556). In-hospital mortality was 0.9%, corresponding to one patient in the long QTc group. The mean follow-up time was 4.8±3.8 years. 5-year all-cause mortality and the occurrence of the composite endpoint of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events did not differ between the groups (p=0.511 and p=0.538, respectively). Our study found no association between prolonged QTc interval during TTS events and adverse prognosis, since in-hospital and long-term outcomes were similar between the groups. Our findings suggest that, although QT prolongation is usually a frightening feature on ECG, this repolarization abnormality during the acute phase has no major prognostic implications in the TTS population.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Nonsurgical Versus Surgical Treatment
Authors: Kittiwattanagul Warawut , Namwaing Puthachad , Khamsai Sittichai , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Primary intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a stroke subtype with high morbidity and mortality. Surgical treatments for ICH may be one of the beneficial modalities. There are inconsistent clinical outcomes of surgical treatments in several randomized controlled trials. This study aimed to evaluate if surgical treatment can reduce mortality in patients with ICH in a real-world setting.

Methods:

This was a retrospective analytical study. The inclusion criteria were consecutive adult patients aged 18 years or over admitted to neurosurgery ward due to ICH, and indicated for surgical treatment according to the 2015 guideline for the management of spontaneous ICH. The outcomes of this study included mortality, length of stay, Barthel index, Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS), and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Descriptive statistics were used to execute the differences between those who underwent and did not undergo surgical treatments. Factors associated with mortality were computed by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results:

There were 110 patients with ICH who met the study criteria. Of those, 34 (30.91%) patients underwent surgical treatment: mainly craniotomy (16 patients; 47.06%). The surgical treatment group had significantly higher proportions of large ICH of 30 mL or over (62.96% vs. 27.54%;P= 0.002) and intraventricular hemorrhage (70.59% vs. 46.05%;P= 0.023) than the nonsurgical treatment group. However, both groups had comparable outcomes in terms of mortality, length of stay, Barthel index, GOS, and GCS. The mortality rate in the surgery group was 47.06%, whereas the nonsurgery group had a mortality rate of 39.47 (P= 0.532). There were three independent factors associated with mortality, including age, GCS, and intraventricular hemorrhage. The adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of these factors was 1.06 (1.02–1.12), 5.42 (1.48–19.81), and 5.30 (1.65–17.01). Intraventricular hemorrhage was more common in the elderly than in the nonelderly group (66.00% vs. 43.33%;P= 0.022).

Conclusions:

Surgical treatment may not be beneficial in patients with severe ICH, particularly with intraventricular hemorrhage, large ICH volume, or low GCS. Elderly patients with ICH may also have high mortality if intraventricular hemorrhage is present.
Security in Mobile Network: Issues, Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Dahiya Ruby , Kashyap Anjali , Sharma Bhupendra , Sharma Rahul Kumar , Agarwal Nidhi
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION: Mobile devices are integrated into daily activities of people's life. Compared to desktop computers the growth of mobile devices is tremendous in recent years. The growth of mobile devices opens vast scope for attackers on these devices.OBJECTIVES: This paper presents a deep study of different types of security risks involved in mobile devices and mobile applications. METHODS: In this paper we study various mechanisms of security risks for the mobile devices and their applications. We also study how to prevent these security risks in mobile devices.RESULTS: Various solutions are provided in paper through which operators can protect the security and privacy of user data and keep their customers' trust by implementing these procedures.CONCLUSION: This paper concludes with their solutions for providing a secure mobile network. This paper is structured as follows. Section 2 contains related work. Section 3 describes security problems. Section 4 discusses defensive methods and Section 5 gives the conclusion.
Oncological Outcomes in Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer Treated with Enzalutamide with versus without Confirmatory Bone Scan
Authors: Jeong Chang Wook , Han Jang Hee , Kwon Dong Deuk , Joung Jae Young , Kim Choung-Soo , Ahn Hanjong , Hong Jun Hyuk , Kim Tae-Hwan , Chung Byung Ha , Jeon Seong Soo , Kang Minyong , Hong Sung Kyu , Jung Tae Young , Park Sung Woo , Yun Seok Joong , Lee Ji Yeol , Lee Seung Hwan , Kang Seok Ho , Kwak Cheol
Published: December 2023

Purpose In men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), new bone lesions are sometimes not properly categorized through a confirmatory bone scan, and clinical significance of the test itself remains unclear. This study aimed to demonstrate the performance rate of confirmatory bone scans in a real-world setting and their prognostic impact in enzalutamide-treated mCRPC.Materials and Methods Patients who received oral enzalutamide for mCRPC during 2014-2017 at 14 tertiary centers in Korea were included. Patients lacking imaging assessment data or insufficient drug exposure were excluded. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes included performance rate of confirmatory bone scans in a real-world setting. Kaplan-Meier analysis and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed.Results Overall, 520 patients with mCRPC were enrolled (240 [26.2%] chemotherapy-naïve and 280 [53.2%] after chemotherapy). Among 352 responders, 92 patients (26.1%) showed new bone lesions in their early bone scan. Confirmatory bone scan was performed in 41 patients (44.6%), and it was associated with prolonged OS in the entire population (median, 30.9 vs. 19.7 months; p < 0.001), as well as in the chemotherapy-naïve (median, 47.2 vs. 20.5 months; p=0.011) and post-chemotherapy sub-groups (median, 25.5 vs. 18.0 months; p=0.006). Multivariate Cox regression showed that confirmatory bone scan performance was an independent prognostic factor for OS (hazard ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval, 0.18 to 0.69; p=0.002).Conclusion Confirmatory bone scan performance was associated with prolonged OS. Thus, the premature discontinuation of enzalutamide without confirmatory bone scans should be discouraged.
Review of Gas Generation Behavior during Thermal Runaway of
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Qi Chuang , Liu Zhenyan , Lin Chunjing , Hu Yuanzhi
Published: December 2023

Due to the limitations of current battery manufacturing processes, integration
technology, and operating conditions, the large-scale application of lithium-ion
batteries in the fields of energy storage and electric vehicles has led to an
increasing number of fire accidents. When a lithium-ion battery undergoes
thermal runaway, it undergoes complex and violent reactions, which can lead to
combustion and explosion, accompanied by the production of a large amount of
flammable and toxic gases. These flammable gases continue to undergo chemical
reactions at high temperatures, producing complex secondary combustion products.
This article systematically summarizes the gas generation characteristics of
different types and states of batteries under different thermal runaway
triggering conditions. And based on this, proposes the key research directions
for the gas generation characteristics of lithium-ion batteries.
Titanium Alloy Bars, Forgings, and Forging Stock, 6Al - 6V - 2Sn, Annealed
Authors:   AMS G Titanium and Refractory Metals Committee
Published: December 2023

This specification covers a titanium alloy in the form of bars up through 4.000 inches (101.60 mm) in nominal diameter or least distance between parallel sides, inclusive, forgings of thickness up through 4.000 inches (101.60 mm), inclusive, with bars and forgings having a maximum cross-sectional area of 32 square inches (206.5 cm2), and stock for forging of any size (see 8.6).
Microbiologically Documented Infection-related Mortality in Children with Acute Leukemia: A Single-center Experience
Authors: Öztekin Güntaş Şerife , Köse Volkan , Koca Yozgat Ayça , Çulha Vildan , Özbek Namık Yaşar , Parlakay Aslınur , Yaralı Neşe
Published: December 2023

Infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality of chemotherapy-induced neutropenia in children with acute leukemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate microbiologically documented infections (MDIs) during febrile neutropenia (FN) episodes and their relation to mortality. Four hundred eighty-seven FN episodes of 140 children were enrolled in this single-center study, and MDI in those FN episodes was retrospectively examined. Eighty-four patients (60%) had at least one positive peripheral blood, central line, or urine culture. MDIs were detected in 163 of 487 (33.4%) FN episodes of 84 children with leukemia. Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria, and fungal agents were isolated in 52.7%, 40.4%, and 6.9% of whole episodes. Coagulase-negative Staphylococci and Enterococci were the most detected Gram-positive bacteria. Klebsiella spp. and Escherichia coli were the most common Gram-negative bacteria isolated in the entire cohort. A central line was present in 145 MDI episodes, and catheter removal was required in 35 cases (17.7%) due to infection with Gram-negative bacteria, Gram-positive bacteria 43%, 28.5%, and fungus 28.5%, respectively. MDI-related mortality was 9.8%. The highest mortality rate (16.7%) was observed in Gram-negative bacteria and patients with relapsed and resistant leukemia. The most common infectious agent related to mortality was Klebsiella (31%). Resistance to third- or fourth-generation cephalosporins in Gram-negative bacteria was found to be over 50% of our cohort uri. Empirical antibiotic therapy at the onset of FN in neutropenic patients is crucial; therefore, the institution’s predominant pathogens and resistance patterns should guide the choice of empirical antimicrobials. To reduce mortality and morbidity, each center should know its local epidemiological data and antibiotic susceptibility.
Polyphenol-rich extract of Digitaria exilis (Kippist) grain lowers gastrointestinal dysmotility and enhanced colonic peristalsis in rifaximin-induced constipated rat
Authors: Adams Moses D. , Muftaudeen Taoheed K. , Saliu Oluremi A.
Published: December 2023

Digitaria exilis grains rich in polyphenol have been speculated among some traditional practitioners of Northern Nigeria to aid in treating constipation. Hence, this study aims at assessing the anti-constipation property of polyphenol-rich extract of Digitaria exilis grains (PREDEG) in rifaximin-induced constipated rat. Thirty (30) Wistar rats of both sexes (143.84 ± 2.62 g) were assigned into 6 categories, A to F, of 5 rats each. Category A (control) received 0.4 ml of saline. Constipations were induced in categories B to F by oraladministration of rifaximin (2 mg/kg in saline for 48 h) and treated respectively with saline, glycerine (reference drug at 40 mg/kg), 50, 150 and 250 mg/kg of PREDEG (extracted via standard methods). All the treatments were given orally for 6 days using oral device. Rifaximin-induced constipation significantly (p < 0.05) decreases the feed and water intake, faecal quality, bodyweight and gastrointestinal flow proportion. All these alterations were attenuated dose-dependently, when co-treated with PREDEG and highest activity recorded at 250 mg/kg compared to reference drug. The data present polyphenol-rich extract of D. exilis grains as a potent anti-constipation agent and may act probably by lowering gastrointestinal dysmotility. This validates its traditional use in the treatment of constipation mostly in the Northern part of Nigeria.
Correlation of estimated average glucose with single point glucose values in patients attending a clinical laboratory facility in South-Western Nigeria: a retrospective study
Authors: Bamidele Olabisi T. , Okoduwa Stanley I.R. , Olasehinde Olanrewaju E. , Okonkwo Ngozi E. , Ibeaja Frank C. , Faleye Ayomide , Olayanju Olatunde A.
Published: December 2023

Regular monitoring of glycaemic levels in patients with diabetes mellitus forms a major fulcrum for ensuring a desirable treatment outcome and a good quality of life in affected individuals. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) measurement is a common and dependableoption for determining long-term glycaemic control. Unfortunately, it is relatively expensive and not readily available in most low- ncome settings. Measuring fasting plasma glucose (FPG) is the cheaper alternative if it correlates with HbA1c. A retrospective study into clinical records to identify all patients who had HbA1c and FPG was conducted on the same day between January 2021 and July 2022. Estimated average glucose was calculated from the HbA1c and the values were correlated with the FPG. Factors predicting values for HbA1c were also determined. The results obtained showed that a total of 315 patients had clinical records required for the study, 147(46.7%) males and 168 (53.3%) females. They were grouped into diabetic (n=111, with median FPG of 155 mg/dL), impaired fasting glucose (n=67, with median FPG of 108 mg/dL) and non-diabetic (n=137, with median FPG of 92 mg/dL) participants. The estimated average glucose for the three groups was 160 mg/dL, 117 mg/dL and 112 mg/dL, respectively. The FPG of the diabetic group showed a moderate correlation with the estimated average glucose (0.630 and a p-value < 0.001), and factors which predicted a high HbA1c were increasing age, FPG and the presence of diabetes mellitus. This data further encourages the continued use of FPG in monitoring glycaemic control in diabetic patients, especially in resource-poor locations where HbA1c is either too expensive or unavailable.
Effect of resveratrol on haematological changes in diabetic-malaria infected wistar rats
Authors: Dawud Fatimah A. , Abdullahi Saifullahi , Abdulazeez Jimoh , Usman Farrau , Ayo Joseph O.
Published: December 2023

The effect of resveratrol on haematological changes in diabetic-malaria infected rats was investigated. Five of six groups of male Wistar rats were induced with type 2 diabetes, followed by inoculation with malaria parasites. Four groups of the diabetic-malaria infected rats were orally given: low dose resveratrol (50 mg/kg), high dose resveratrol (100 mg/kg), Metformin (100 mg/kg) and Artesunate (5 mg/kg) respectively for six days after malaria inoculation. Administration of resveratrol, metformin and artesunate to diabetic-malaria infected rats significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the blood glucose level (BGL) on days 3 and 6 post-inoculation. The high dose resveratrol (RSV 100) group showed a significant (p<0.05) increase in red blood cell counts, although a significant (p < 0.05) decrease of Packed Cell Volume was recorded in the low dose resveratrol group. There was no significant (p>0.05) difference for the values of total WBC counts across the four groups of the diabetic-malaria infected rats, but the differential WBC counts (dWBCC) were significantly (p<0.05) affected. High dose resveratrol administration significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the dWBCC. The diabetic-malarial infected group showed significant (p<0.05) decrease in average RBC; the average parasites and average infected RBC counts were significantly (p<0.05) higher than that in the resveratrol groups. While, Metformin and Artesunate groups showed a further decline in parasitaemia. These findings indicate that Resveratrol decreased BGL and improved hematological parameters and suppressed parasitaemia in diabetic-malarial infected rats.
Kırıkhan–Reyhanlı Bölgesi Tarım Topraklarının Molibden İçeriği ve Topraktaki Bazı Ağır Metaller ile İlişkilerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: YALÇIN Mehmet
Published: December 2023

Bu çalışmada Hatay ili Kırıkhan-Reyhanlı bölgesi tarım topraklarının molibden içeriğinin belirlenmesi ve toprak içerisindeki bazı ağır metaller ile ilişkilerinin saptanması amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaç için Kırıkhan-Reyhanlı bölgesi tarım topraklarını temsil edecek şekilde iki farklı derinlik (0-20 ve 20-40 cm) ve 30 ayrı noktadan olmak üzere toplamda 60 toprak örneği alınmıştır. Alınan toprak örneklerinde; Kadmiyum (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Krom (Cr), Nikel (Ni), Bakır (Cu), Demir (Fe) ve Molibden (Mo) içerikleri belirlenmiştir. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre; toprakların Cd içerikleri 0.009-0.041 µg/kg; Co içeriği 0.011-0.317 µg/kg; Cr 0.008-0.187 µg/kg, Ni içerikleri 0.787-6.211 ppm; Cu içerikleri 1.11-3.77 ppm; Fe içerikleri 2.80-15.09 ve Mo içerikleri 0.006-0.101 µg/kg arasında bulunmuştur. Toprakların Mo ile Co ve Ni içerikleri arasında pozitif önemli ilişkiler belirlenirken Cr içeriği ile negatif önemli ilişkiler belirlenmiştir. Aynı zamanda Cd ile Co ve Ni; Co ile Ni ve Cu ile Fe aralarında ise pozitif önemli ilişkiler belirlenmiştir. Bölge topraklarının ağır metal içerikleri sınır değerler ile karşılaştırıldığında herhangi bir ağır metal kirliliğine rastlanmamıştır.
Poster (Clinical/Best Practice Implementation) ID 1969155
Authors: Furlan Julio C.
Published: December 2023

Background

This study examined the influence of race/ethnicity on the individuals’ survival and neurological recovery within the first year after tSCI.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all 306 cases enrolled in the NASCIS-1, who were grouped into (a) African Americans (n=84), (b) non-Hispanic whites (n=159), and (c) other races/ethnicities that included Hispanics (n=60) and Asians (n=3). Outcome measures included survival and neurological recovery (as assessed using the NASCIS motor, and pinprick and light-touch sensory scores) within the first year post-tSCI. Data analyses of neurological recovery were adjusted for major potential confounders.

Results

There were 39 females and 267 males with a mean age of 31 years who mostly sustained cervical severe tSCI after vehicular accidents or falls. The three groups were comparable regarding sex distribution, level and severity of tSCI, level of consciousness at admission, and total received dose of methylprednisolone. However, African Americans were significantly older than non-Hispanic white individuals (P=0.0238). African Americans and individuals of other races/ethnicities had tSCI with open wounds caused by missile and water-related accidents more often than non-Hispanic white individuals (P<0.0001). However, survival rates within the first year post-tSCI were statistically comparable among the three groups (P=0.3191). Among the survivors, there was no statistically significant difference among the three groups regarding motor, and pinprick and light-touch sensory recovery (P>0.0500).

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that the epidemiology of tSCI might vary depending upon the individual’s race/ethnicity. Nevertheless, race/ethnicity did not influence survival rate or neurological recovery within first year post-tSCI.
Poster (Knowledge Generation) ID 1969160
Authors: Furlan Julio C. , Loh Eldon , Boulos Mark I.
Published: December 2023

Background

This ongoing cross-sectional study aims to examine the potential association between moderate-to-severe sleep apnea and severe cardiovascular dysfunction after spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

This cross-sectional study included participants who were newly diagnosed with sleep apnea using a home-based/hospital unattended sleep screening test that quantifies the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). Episodes of AD were defined as a sudden increase in systolic blood pressure (BP) of at least 20 mmHg. We exclude episodes of AD during sleep that were caused by triggers other than apnea or hypopnea.

Participants

This study included English-speaking adults with subacute or chronic (≥1 month after SCI onset), cervical or high-thoracic (T6 or more cranial), complete or incomplete SCI, who reported clinical symptoms and/or signs suggestive of sleep apnea.

Results

This study included 45 individuals (14 females and 31 males; age range: 20 to 84 years, mean age: 57.0 years) with motor complete (n=22) or incomplete SCI at cervical (n=38) or high thoracic levels. Time since SCI varied from 1.5 months to 52 years. Their mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 16.0 events/hour (AHI range: 0.8 to 51.7 events/hour). Higher AHI was significantly correlated with more frequent silent episodes of AD (Rsqr=0.220, p=0.001) during sleep. The AHI was not associated with systolic BP (p=0.903), diastolic BP (p=0.639), mean arterial pressure (p=0.714), and heart rate (p=0.669) during sleep.

Conclusions

The results of this cross-sectional study suggest that more severe sleep apnea is associated with frequent silent episodes of AD during sleep among individuals living with cervical or high-thoracic SCI.
Workshop (Clinical/Best Practice Implementation) ID 1972517
Authors: Chernesky John , Kaiser Anita , Munro Barry , Walden Kristen , Gainforth Heather , Musselman Kristin E.
Published: December 2023

Background/Objectives

Teams with diverse perspectives and experiences have been increasingly recognized for their ability to identify key issues and utilize creativity and problem solving to plan and implement research and clinical initiatives that lead to greater impact. Yet, often we are unsure how to best engage individuals with differing expertise, such as those with lived experience, clinicians, healthcare administrators, engineers, researchers, funders and policy experts. After completing this workshop, participants will be able to: 1) Understand the principles and value of meaningfully engaging with a diverse team when conducting research or clinical projects, 2) Identify strategies that can facilitate the meaningful engagement of individuals with differing expertise, and 3) Create a plan of engagement for a research study or clinical initiative.

Methods/Overview

A combination of lecture-based and case-based learning will be used to explain the guiding principles and best-practices for meaningful engagement and to discuss relevant resources, such as the North American Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Consortium’s SCI Resource Advocacy Course and the Integrated Knowledge Translation Guiding Principles. Participants will be asked to apply these principles and practices to one of their own research or clinical initiatives through small group discussion. The Canadian Activity-Based Therapy (ABT) Community of Practice, which brings together diverse groups to address priorities for ABT research and clinical care, will be used as a case example during large group discussion.

Results

Not applicable.

Conclusions

Through this workshop, participants will gain knowledge and strategies that can be applied to facilitate meaningful engagement in research and clinical initiatives.
Poster (Clinical/Best Practice Implementation) ID 1984772
Authors: Sreenivasan Vidya , Curran Dorothyann , Chase Andrea
Published: December 2023

Background/Objectives

Literature shows that patients with spinal cord injury place high importance on addressing sexual health issues such as fertility, physical functioning, understanding sensory changes and relationship counselling. In order to promote sexual health inclusivity for inpatients at our rehabilitation centre and to assist staff with initiating sexual health discussions, a series of steps was taken to promote sexual health as part of the rehabilitation program. All staff on the ward received a standardized training session and posters were put up around the Centre to promote sexual health for patients with spinal cord injury. A pamphlet for patients was developed and an introduction to sexual health was initiated by staff at two time points during the rehabilitation stay. All new inpatients, regardless of gender, age or disability severity, were offered the pamphlet and the introduction.

Methods

We conducted a chart review looking at patients before the pamphlet/standardized introduction versus after the implementation to support our hypothesis that patients who received the pamphlet and introduction would be more likely to engage in discussions about sexual health.

Results

More patients did pursue sexual health discussions with the rehab team after the pamphlet was introduced. However, many patients refused the pamphlet or further sexual health discussion. Demographically, patients who were younger were more likely to express interest in further sexual health discussions.

Conclusion

Use of an easy-to-implement tool (pamphlet) combined with a standardized introduction is useful for increasing interest in initiating sexual health discussion by inpatients with SCI.
Poster (Knowledge Generation) ID 1985240
Authors: D’Amico Jessica M. , Castillo Camilo , Rouffet David , Gorassini Monica , Satkunam Lalith
Published: December 2023

Background

Following a spinal cord injury, there is a significant loss of monoamines below the lesion. In the rat model, exogenous administration of the serotonin precursor, 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP), increases neural excitability through augmentation of spinal serotonin levels. To determine whether this compensatory mechanism can be harnessed to restore serotonergic modulation in humans after SCI, participants visited the lab on four occasions where they received i) placebo, ii) carbidopa, iii) 50mg 5HTP+carbidopa, or iv) 100mg 5HTP+carbidopa in a randomized, crossover design. Cutaneomuscular reflexes (CMR) were obtained pre-drug and 30, 60, 90 and 120-min post-drug intake. Surface electromyography was also recorded during a pedalling movement pre- and post-drug.

Results

Nine participants with chronic, complete SCI (35.3±5.5 years) and four participants with chronic, incomplete SCI (47.0±19.7years) were enrolled. Following ingestion of 100mg 5HTP only, the short polysynaptic and long-lasting reflex components of the CMR were significantly increased by ∼ 86±61% and 58±17% respectively in individuals with complete SCI. No significant changes were noted in the cohort of individuals with incomplete SCI. Integrated EMG during pedalling was increased in multiple lower extremity muscles during the extension and flexion phases of the cycle following both 50-mg (82±15% and 51±7%) and 100-mg 5HTP (140±27% and 130±16%) in individuals with more severe injuries, but not in those with incomplete injuries.

Conclusion

Ingestion of 5HTP facilitates neural excitability and induces rhythmic muscle activity in previously inactive muscles during an assisted pedalling movement in individuals with chronic, complete SCI. This has significant clinical implications for rehabilitation after SCI.
Student Competition (Knowledge Generation) ID 1985735
Authors: Aliabadi Saina , Musselman Kristin , Hitzig Sander L , Jaglal Susn , Craven Beverley C.
Published: December 2023

Background

Individuals with chronic spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D) are at an increased risk of lower extremity fractures. Novel interventions, including nutraceuticals and pharmacotherapy, are being explored to reduce fracture-related morbidity and mortality.

Objective

This retrospective cohort study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Denosumab injections with dietary calcium and vitamin D supplements on proximaltibia bone mineral density (BMD) in adults with low bone mass and chronic SCI/D.

Design/Methods

Adult patients with SCI/D over age 18 years, with a baseline distal femur or proximal tibia Z-score <-2.0 or T-score <-2.5 exposed to at least three doses of Denosumab 60mcg/1ml vial injections will consent to chart abstraction. The cumulative Denosumab dose will be the exposure variable. Calcium intake and vitamin D serum levels will be recorded as effect modifiers. Age, sex, and BMI will be recorded as potential confounders. The primary outcome will be the change in proximal tibia BMD from baseline and secondarily the incidence of lower extremity fracture(s).

Results/Findings

Demographic and impairment characteristics of the study population will be reported using appropriate descriptive statistics. The associations between mean BMD change and Denosumab exposure will be calculated and adjusted for confounders using an appropriate univariate/multivariate model based on sample size and data distribution.

Conclusion

This retrospective cohort study will determine the effectiveness of Denosumab injections (with calcium and vitamin D) for maintaining or increasing proximal tibia BMD among patients with chronic SCI/D. The study findings will have a significant impact on Denosumab prescribing practices.
Student Competition (Technology Innovation) ID 1986855
Authors: Fathian Ramin , Khandan Aminreza , Ho Chester , Rouhani Hossein
Published: December 2023

Background

Up to 70% of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) experience shoulder injuries during their lifetime. Previous studies revealed a link between the risk of shoulder injury and propulsion-related kinetic and kinematic parameters that were measured using SMARTWheel or in-lab motion-capture systems. Despite their high accuracy, these systems are time and labour intensive and not commonly accessible.

Objective

To develop and validate a portable and accessible method to estimate the duration of the push phase using a hand-mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU).

Methods

Ten volunteers (7 males, 3 females, age: 28 ± 2 y.o.) consented to participate in the study. An IMU (3D acceleration and angular velocity, sampling frequency: 512 Hz) was attached to participant’s right hand while sitting on the instrumented wheelchair equipped with SMARTWheel (sampling frequency: 240 Hz). The SMARTWheel and IMU readouts were collected while participants were propelling the wheelchair. The peaks in the resultant acceleration and continuous wavelet transform coefficients obtained from IMU were used to identify the hand contact and release, and estimate the push phase duration.

Results

No significant differences (p-value = 0.97, 0.89, and 0.94, respectively) were observed between the parameters obtained for the hand contact and release instants and push duration estimated using IMU compared to SMARTWheel with mean errors (standard deviation) of 8.4 (15.2) ms, 3.8 (22.1) ms and −4.6 (24.6) ms, respectively.

Conclusion

These findings support the validity of using IMU as a portable alternative to the in-lab systems to estimate the push phase duration of manual wheelchair users.
Student Competition (Knowledge Generation) ID 1987946
Authors: Punjani Nayaab , Lemarchant Sighild , Altamentova Svetlana , Chio Jonathon , Wang Jian , Godfrin Yann , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: December 2023

Background/Objectives

NX210c is a 12-amino acid peptide derived from conserved thrombospondin type 1 repeat sequences in the subcommissural organ-spondin, which has a unique multifunctional mechanism of action to ameliorate outcomes following neurological injuries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of NX210c to promote functional recovery and tissue repair in a cervical traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) model.

Methods/Overview

Adult female Wistar rats were subjected to a C6/C7 clip compression-contusion injury and treated once daily with intraperitoneal injections of NX210c (8 mg/kg) or its vehicle for 8 weeks, beginning 4 hours (h) or 8h post-injury (n=16-17/group), with concurrent neurobehavioural tests.

Results

Earlier NX210c administration at 4h increased forelimb grip strength (p<0.05) and improved several static and dynamic aspects of locomotion including regularity index and base of support of the forelimbs (CatWalk) (p<0.05). Delaying initial administration of NX210c to 8h, promoted weight gain, accelerated bladder control recovery from 14 to 9 days post-injury, and improved trunk balance (inclined plane) as early as one-week post-injury (p<0.05). 94% of NX210c-treated rats compared to 75% of vehicle controls observed weight support at the delayed initial injection timepoint. Histology (n=6/group) demonstrated greater white matter preservation and reduced cavity size at the injury epicenter, and higher neuronal soma counts caudally, with NX210c starting 8h post-injury compared to the vehicle (p<0.05).

Conclusions

NX210c targets various aspects of SCI, improving motor function, bladder control, white matter preservation, and neuronal counts, with more benefits observed at the later initial injection timepoint.