bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactive arthritis in children
Authors: Khaertynov Kh. S. , Anokhin V. A. , Makarova K. A. , Bulatova A. Kh. , Yumasheva S. Yu.
Published: November 2024

One of the common childhood illnesses is reactive arthritis, which develops during or soon after an infection.

Purpose. The aim of the study was to study the etiology, clinical and laboratory manifestations of arthritis in children.

Material and methods. The study included 37 children with arthritis aged 1 year 10 months to 15 years who were hospitalized at Kazan City Children’s Hospital № 1.

Results. Reactive arthritis was diagnosed in 26 children, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis in 11. In 20 patients, reactive arthritis manifested itself as monoarthritis with predominant damage to the hip or knee joints – in 11 and 9 cases, respectively. Two children had ankle arthritis. In 4 cases there was oligoarthritis. Markers of infectious diseases were identified in 10 out of 26 children with reactive arthritis (38%). In 5 children (19%) IgM to Mycoplasma pneumonia was detected, in two (8%) – IgM to capsid antigen of Epstein–Barr virus, in one child (4%) – IgM to Chlamydia pneumonia. Two children had elevated ASLO values (more than 400 IU/ml). Inflammatory in the blood in 33 cases (89%) were characterized by increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, the median of which was 22 mm/hour. Increased level of C-reactive protein and leukocytes in the blood were observed only in 9 (24%) and 7 (19%) children, respectively.

Conclusion. Reactive arthritis in children mainly manifests as monoarthritis, with predominant damage to the hip or knee joints and in most cases was associated with Mycoplasma pneumonia.
Solubility, Flowability, and Setting Time of a New Endodontic Sealer based on Polycaprolactone
Authors: Yaltaghiyani Majid , Dizaj Solmaz Maleki , Shahi Shahriar , Sharifi Simin , Niaei Peiman , Moslemi Ehsan , Haghighi Danial
Published: November 2024

Aim

One of the essential materials required for root canal treatment is a sealer. This study aimed to assess the solubility, flowability, and setting time of a new endodontic sealer compared to a commercial sealer, AH Plus.

Material and Methods

In this in vitro study, the new endodontic sealer was prepared using various proportions of the materials and compared with the control group (AH Plus sealer). Standard methods were used to measure solubility, flowability, and setting time. Statistical analysis was performed using t-tests and GraphPad Prism 9 software.

Results

The new sealer demonstrated lower solubility, higher flowability, and longer setting time compared to AH Plus.

Conclusion

Given the favorable results of the new sealer in this study, it is recommended for use in future clinical studies.
Solution for the Future
Authors: Imran Muzzamel Hussain
Published: November 2024

This chapter discusses the urgent need for a new ethical framework to
address the environmental crisis by examining the shortcomings of existing ethical
systems in guiding behavioral change, particularly in the context of current
environmental policies. The call for a new ethic has gained momentum among
academics, economists, and environmentalists, emphasizing a shift toward a more
meaningful and spiritual connection with nature. The chapter delves into the virtues of
humility, respect, selflessness, moderation, mindfulness, and responsibility within
theocentric environmental ethics, suggesting that these virtues can harmonize religious
principles with environmental philosophies. Drawing on various religious traditions,
the framework aims to foster a sense of interconnectedness and purpose, challenging
anthropocentric views and promoting responsible conduct. The chapter also advocates
for collaboration between faith communities and international bodies to address the
ecological crisis collectively. In conclusion, the text underscores the importance of
implementing the proposed ethical framework and calls for further exploration of its
feasibility and sustainability in a rapidly advancing world.
THE EFFECT OF CINNAMON EXTRACT ON ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY, TOTAL BAL, PH, AND HEDONICS OF RED BEET YOGHURT
Authors:   Universitas Diponegoro, Legowo Anang Mohamad , Wardhani Febrianinta ,   Universitas Diponegoro, Susanti Siti ,   Universitas Diponegoro
Published: November 2024

Red beet yogurt needs improvement, especially in terms of flavor. The addition of cinnamon can improve hedonic quality, especially aroma, taste, and overall acceptance. This study aims to determine the effect of cinnamon extract on antioxidant activity, total LAB, pH, and hedonic. The research method used RAL with the addition of cinnamon extract 0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5% and 0.7%. Antioxidants were tested using the DPPH method, total LAB was calculated using the TPC method, pH was measured using a pH meter, and hedonic using the scoring method. The results showed that the addition of cinnamon extract had a significant effect (p<0.05) on total LAB, pH, and hedonic with attributes of aroma, color, taste, texture, and overall preference. The most optimal treatment was a cinnamon extract concentration of 0.3% because it produced an optimum level of preference with antioxidant activity of 22.41%, total LAB of 9.36 Log CFU/ml, and pH of 4.02.
PENDUGAAN UMUR SIMPAN AMPLANG IKAN REMANG DALAM KEMASAN METALIZED DAN POLIPROPILEN DENGAN PENDEKATAN MODEL ARRHENIUS
Authors:   Universitas Padjadjaran, Moody Sumanti Debby , Hanidah In-In ,   Universitas Padjadjaran, Rahimah Souvia ,   Universitas Padjadjaran, Lianna Angela Ferren ,   Universitas Padjadjaran, Utami Annisa Ratni ,   Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore North West Java
Published: November 2024

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menentukan umur simpan amplang ikan remang dengan metode ASLT (Accelerated Shelf Life Testing) dengan pendekatan model Arrhenius dalam jenis kemasan plastik polipropilen dan metalized. Amplang remang disimpan dalam suhu akselerasi 28oC, 38oC, dan 48oC selama 35 hari dan dilakukan analisis pada parameter kadar air, asam lemak bebas, dan total plate count (TPC) setiap 7 hari. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terjadinya kenaikan kadar air, kenaikan kadar asam lemak bebas, dan kenaikan total mikroorganisme pada amplang remang selama penyimpanan. Parameter asam lemak bebas digunakan sebagai parameter kritis penentuan umur simpan. Hasil menunjukan pada suhu penyimpanan 28oC, 38oC, dan 48oC, kemasan metalized lebih baik dalam mempertahankan mutu dan memperpanjang umur simpan amplang remang yaitu 130 hari, 118 hari, dan 108 hari, sedangkan dengan kemasan pastik PP amplang memiliki umur simpan 92 hari, 86 hari, dan 80 hari.
Effectiveness of the Offer of the Smoke Free Smartphone App Compared With No Intervention for Smoking Cessation: Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jackson Sarah , Kale Dimitra , Beard Emma , Perski Olga , West Robert , Brown Jamie
Published: November 2024

Background

Digital technologies offer the potential for low-cost, scalable delivery of interventions to promote smoking cessation.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the offer of Smoke Free—an evidence-informed, widely used app—for smoking cessation versus no support.

Methods

In this 2-arm randomized controlled trial, 3143 motivated adult smokers were recruited online between August 2020 and April 2021 and randomized to receive an offer of the Smoke Free app plus follow-up (intervention arm) versus follow-up only (comparator arm). Both groups were shown a brief message at the end of the baseline questionnaire encouraging them to make a quit attempt. The primary outcome was self-reported 6-month continuous abstinence assessed 7 months after randomization. Secondary outcomes included quit attempts in the first month post randomization, 3-month continuous abstinence assessed at 4 months, and 6-month continuous abstinence at 7 months among those who made a quit attempt. The primary analysis was performed on an intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis basis. Sensitivity analyses included (1) restricting the intervention group to those who took up the offer of the app, (2) using complete cases, and (3) using multiple imputation.

Results

The effective follow-up rate for 7 months was 41.9%. The primary analysis showed no evidence of a benefit of the intervention on rates of 6-month continuous abstinence (intervention 6.8% vs comparator 7.0%; relative risk 0.97, 95% CI 0.75-1.26). Analyses of all secondary outcomes also showed no evidence of a benefit. Similar results were observed on complete cases and using multiple imputation. When the intervention group was restricted to those who took up the offer of the app (n=395, 25.3%), participants in the intervention group were 80% more likely to report 6-month continuous abstinence (12.7% vs 7.0%; relative risk 1.80, 95% CI 1.30-2.45). Equivalent subgroup analyses produced similar results on the secondary outcomes. These differences persisted after adjustment for key baseline characteristics.

Conclusions

Among motivated smokers provided with very brief advice to quit, the offer of the Smoke Free app did not have a detectable benefit for cessation compared with follow-up only. However, the app increased quit rates when smokers randomized to receive the app downloaded it.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN ISRCTN85785540; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN85785540

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/add.14652
The Impact of Comment Slant and Comment Tone on Digital Health Communication Among Polarized Publics: A Web-Based Survey Experiment
Authors: Lu Fangcao , Tu Caixie
Published: November 2024

Background

Public attitudes toward health issues are becoming increasingly polarized, as seen in social media comments, which vary from supportive to oppositional and frequently include uncivil language. The combined effects of comment slant and comment tone on health behavior among a polarized public need further examination.

Objective

This study aims to examine how social media users’ prior attitudes toward mask wearing and their exposure to a mask-wearing–promoting post, synchronized with polarized and hostile discussions, affect their compliance with mask wearing.

Methods

The study was a web-based survey experiment with participants recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk. A total of 522 participants provided consent and completed the study. Participants were assigned to read a fictitious mask-wearing–promoting social media post with either civil anti–mask-wearing comments (130/522, 24.9%), civil pro–mask-wearing comments (129/522, 24.7%), uncivil anti–mask-wearing comments (131/522, 25.1%), or uncivil pro–mask-wearing comments (132/522, 25.3%). Following this, the participants were asked to complete self-assessed questionnaires. The PROCESS macro in SPSS (model 12; IBM Corp) was used to test the 3-way interaction effects between comment slant, comment tone, and prior attitudes on participants’ presumed influence from the post and their behavioral intention to comply with mask-wearing.

Results

Anti–mask-wearing comments led social media users to presume less influence about others’ acceptance of masks (B=1.49; P<.001; 95% CI 0.98-2.00) and resulted in decreased mask-wearing intention (B=0.07; P=.03; 95% CI 0.01-0.13). Comment tone with incivility also reduced compliance with mask-wearing (B=–0.44; P=.02; 95% CI –0.81 to –0.07). Furthermore, polarized attitudes had a direct impact (B=0.86; P<.001; 95% CI 0.45-1.26) and also interacted with both the slant and tone of comments, influencing mask-wearing intention.

Conclusions

Pro–mask-wearing comments enhanced presumed influence and compliance of mask-wearing, but incivility in the comments hindered this positive impact. Antimaskers showed increased compliance when they were unable to find civil support for their opinion in the social media environment. The findings suggest the need to correct and moderate uncivil language and misleading information in online comment sections while encouraging the posting of supportive and civil comments. In addition, information literacy programs are needed to prevent the public from being misled by polarized comments.
Barriers and Facilitators Affecting Access to Health Care for People With Syphilis: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Correia Rafaela Bezerra Façanha , Mourad Rafaela Prudlik , Dantas Janmilli da Costa , Silva Richardson Augusto Rosendo da
Published: November 2024

Background

Syphilis is a systemic, preventable, and curable infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Despite being treatable, syphilis continues to have a high incidence, with a resurgence observed even in countries with strong health surveillance systems. This highlights the need to understand the various strategies used globally to improve access to care for individuals with syphilis.

Objective

This scoping review aims to identify and map the barriers and facilitators affecting access to health care for people with syphilis.

Methods

This scoping review will follow the methodology outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The search will be conducted across several databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, LILACS (Virtual Health Library), and CINAHL (EBSCO). In addition, sources of unpublished studies or gray literature will be explored. Studies focusing on access to health care for individuals with syphilis will be included, regardless of geographic location, country, or language. Two independent reviewers will assess the results, and data will be extracted using a tool specifically developed for this review. The extracted quantitative data will be presented in tables and analyzed using descending hierarchical classification, represented by a class dendrogram. Barriers and facilitators will be categorized into dimensions of access.

Results

Database searching began in October 2024. Full-text screening and review are expected to be completed in December 2024. Data extraction and analysis are expected to be completed by February 2025, and the final report will be completed in March 2025.

Conclusions

The findings of this scoping review, guided by this protocol, will elucidate the main barriers and facilitators that affect access to syphilis treatment. This study may contribute to the practices of health professionals, managers, and the academic community, and provide relevant information for the population.

Trial Registration

Open Science Framework Registries osf.io/kpsab; https://osf.io/kpsab

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/63561
Decoding the Digital Pulse: Bibliometric Analysis of 25 Years in Digital Health Research Through the Journal of Medical Internet Research (Preprint)
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Robert , Wilhelm Theresa Isabelle , Roos Jonas , Martin Ron
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

As the digital health landscape continues to evolve, analyzing the progress and direction of the field can yield valuable insights. The Journal of Medical Internet Research (JMIR) has been at the forefront of disseminating digital health research since 1999. A comprehensive network analysis of JMIR publications can help illuminate the evolution and trends in digital medicine over the past 25 years.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct a detailed network analysis of JMIR’s publications to uncover the growth patterns, dominant themes, and potential future trajectories in digital health research.

METHODS

We retrieved 8068 JMIR papers from PubMed using the Biopython library. Keyword metrics were assessed using accuracy, recall, and F1-scores to evaluate the effectiveness of keyword identification from Claude 3 Opus and Gemini 1.5 Pro in addition to 2 conventional natural language processing methods using key bidirectional encoder representations from transformers. Future trends for 2024-2026 were predicted using Claude 3 Opus, Google’s Time Series Foundation Model, autoregressive integrated moving average, exponential smoothing, and Prophet. Network visualization techniques were used to represent and analyze the complex relationships between collaborating countries, paper types, and keyword co-occurrence.

RESULTS

JMIR’s publication volume showed consistent growth, with a peak in 2020. The United States dominated country contributions, with China showing a notable increase in recent years. Keyword analysis from 1999 to 2023 showed significant thematic shifts, from an early internet and digital health focus to the dominance of COVID-19 and advanced technologies such as machine learning. Predictions for 2024-2026 suggest an increased focus on artificial intelligence, digital health, and mental health.

CONCLUSIONS

Network analysis of JMIR publications provides a macroscopic view of the evolution of the digital health field. The journal’s trajectory reflects broader technological advances and shifting research priorities, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The predicted trends underscore the growing importance of computational technology in future health care research and practice. The findings from JMIR provide a glimpse into the future of digital medicine, suggesting a robust integration of artificial intelligence and continued emphasis on mental health in the postpandemic era.
Barriers and Facilitators Affecting Access to Health Care for People With Syphilis: Protocol for a Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Correia Rafaela Bezerra Façanha , Mourad Rafaela Prudlik , Dantas Janmilli da Costa , Silva Richardson Augusto Rosendo da
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Syphilis is a systemic, preventable, and curable infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Despite being treatable, syphilis continues to have a high incidence, with a resurgence observed even in countries with strong health surveillance systems. This highlights the need to understand the various strategies used globally to improve access to care for individuals with syphilis.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aims to identify and map the barriers and facilitators affecting access to health care for people with syphilis.

METHODS

This scoping review will follow the methodology outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The search will be conducted across several databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, LILACS (Virtual Health Library), and CINAHL (EBSCO). In addition, sources of unpublished studies or gray literature will be explored. Studies focusing on access to health care for individuals with syphilis will be included, regardless of geographic location, country, or language. Two independent reviewers will assess the results, and data will be extracted using a tool specifically developed for this review. The extracted quantitative data will be presented in tables and analyzed using descending hierarchical classification, represented by a class dendrogram. Barriers and facilitators will be categorized into dimensions of access.

RESULTS

Database searching began in October 2024. Full-text screening and review are expected to be completed in December 2024. Data extraction and analysis are expected to be completed by February 2025, and the final report will be completed in March 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this scoping review, guided by this protocol, will elucidate the main barriers and facilitators that affect access to syphilis treatment. This study may contribute to the practices of health professionals, managers, and the academic community, and provide relevant information for the population.

CLINICALTRIAL

Open Science Framework Registries osf.io/kpsab; https://osf.io/kpsab

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/63561
Comprehensive Review of Outcome Metrics and Constructs in Studies Addressing Internet Addiction (Preprint)
Authors: Man TianMing , Ma Yun , Shi Jiang-Long , Wu XinFang
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

This study represents the first step in creating the Internet Addiction (IAD) Core Outcome Set (COS-EPOCH), aimed at identifying and synthesizing outcome measures reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on IAD. Currently, there is a lack of standardized outcome measures for effectively assessing and comparing IAD study results, resulting in data heterogeneity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim is to identify and synthesize outcome measures reported in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on IAD.

METHODS

Following established guidelines, trial registries and Medline databases were systematically searched, with two reviewers independently screening the literature. Outcome measures were categorized into multiple domains through a consensus process involving experts, ensuring coverage of essential aspects of IAD research.

RESULTS

In the analysis of 86 studies, a total of 222 unique outcome measures were identified and categorized into seven major domains: internet addiction assessment, mental/emotional evaluation, laboratory tests, traditional Chinese medicine indicators, general self-assessment, follow-up measures, and adverse reactions and other specific evaluations. The most commonly reported outcome tools were the IAT, SCL-90, and SDS.

CONCLUSIONS

The study highlights significant heterogeneity in reported outcome measures, underscoring the need for COS-EPOCH to standardize these measures in IAD research.
Research on BIM Practice Exploration Based on the Concept of "OBE+CDIO"
Authors: Li Ling
Published: November 2024

With the upgrading of the national industry and the adjustment of the economic structure, the society has put forward higher requirements for the training quality of skilled talents, and the importance of education has gradually become prominent in university. As an important part of university education, vocational education is the key position to cultivate skilled talents for the society, and undertakes the responsibility of cultivating students' professional knowledge and vocational skills. However, there are some problems in the training of students in university, such as unclear learning objectives and lack of practical operation ability, which can not meet the social demand for professional skilled talents. Therefore, this study attempts to introduce OBE and CDIO into BIM teaching courses and practices. In order to improve the teaching situation, enhance the quality of talent training. The lack of systematic curriculum system in BIM education makes it difficult for students to fully grasp the basic theory and application of BIM technology. Therefore, this study will establish a systematic BIM practice exploration based on the concept of "OBE+CDIO", so that students can fully grasp the basic theory and application of BIM technology.
THE CHAOTIC KAFKA: Devouring the Absurdism in Gregor Samsa’s transformation
Authors: Tamanna Tamanna
Published: November 2024

This paper delves into the existential and absurdist themes in Franz Kafka's ‘Metamorphosis’, unravelling the protagonist's transformation as a metaphor for alienation and societal rejection. Through a critical lens, it examines the existential plight and identity crisis that arise in a world devoid of meaning, challenging conventional perceptions of humanity, purpose, and self.
Fault Diagnosis Model in Heat Exchangers Using ANN and SVM
Authors: Bhamare Raj
Published: November 2024

Heat exchangers, often known as HEs, are essential parts of many industrial processes because they effectively transfer heat between fluids. However, these systems are susceptible to a range of issues that can compromise their performance and reliability. This study looks into the viability of using support vector machines (SVM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) for defect detection in heat exchangers operating in a steady state. Both deviations from normal measurement states and the physical causes of faults were analyzed. Comparative results demonstrate that ANN and SVM methods exhibit superior sensitivity and accuracy in fault detection compared to traditional statistical and nearest neighbor classification methods, highlighting their potential for improving the dependability and effectiveness of heat exchanger operations
Analytical Study on Behaviour of Different Shapes in Voided Slabs and Voided Beams
Authors: M Srivani.
Published: November 2024

Slab is largest member which consumes concrete and when load acting on the slab is large or clear span between columns is more, the slab thickness is increasing. It leads to consume more material such as concrete and steel due to that, selfweight of slab is increased. To avoid these disadvantages various studies are carried out and researchers suggest voided slab system [1]. To reduce the concrete in center of the slab by using hollow recycled plastic balls. High density polyethylene (HDPE) hollow balls replace the ineffective concrete in the center of the slab, thus decreasing the dead weight and increasing the efficiency of the floor. The advantages are less energy consumption both in production, transport and carrying out, less emission exhaust gases from production and transport, especially CO2 [2]. The aim of this paper is to discuss about the comparison of conventional slab and voided slab and also conventional beam and voided beam by using ANSYS software.
Human Anomaly Detection System Using YoloV8 and LSTM
Authors: Tandel Jash
Published: November 2024

The “Human Anomaly Detection System” seeks to augment real-time surveillance by pinpointing atypical human activities via a hybrid deep learning strategy that merges RGB video frame analysis with pose estimation. By employing multistream neural networks such as YOLO for object detection and MobileLSTM for the classification of temporal actions this system utilizes attention mechanisms to uncover subtle anomaliesin human behavior. The limitations of traditional surveillance methods, which usually rely on manual monitoring or rule- based frameworks that are prone to errors, are addressed by this research. Public safety, healthcare, and educational institu- tions can all benefit from the system’s notable improvements in recognizing complex, non-rigid human behaviors, despite the difficulties in combining spatial and temporal data. This technology is positioned as a powerful solution for anomaly identification in dynamic contexts since evaluation results showa high degree of accuracy and dependability. Future work will focus on improving model modularity and scalability to enable wider hardware flexibility and investigating richer datasets to improve performance across a range of scenarios.
Iron Deficiency Anemia: Etiology, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Approaches
Authors: Nehar Krushnali N. , Bakal Ravindra L. , Hatwar Pooja Ramdas , Gawai Ankita Y. , Diwnale Sanket S.
Published: November 2024

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common health problem that affects about 1.24 billion people around the world, mostly children and women of childbearing age. IDA happens when the body doesn't get enough iron, loses too much iron, or can't absorb it properly. This makes erythropoiesis, cellular metabolism, and immune function worse. The World Health Organization says that 40% of women who are pregnant and 32.5% of women who are not pregnant have anemia. People with IDA often feel tired, weak, pale, and have trouble thinking clearly. Lab tests, such as hemoglobin, blood ferritin, and transferrin saturation, are used to make the diagnosis. You can treat the condition in two ways: by taking iron supplements by mouth, such as ferrous sulfate, ferrous gluconate, and ferrous fumarate; or, for serious cases, by giving iron through an IV. Strategies for prevention depend on increasing the amount of iron you get from food, making it more bioavailable, and keeping infections under control. Food addition and fortification programs have been shown to help lower the number of people with IDA. However, problems still exist, especially in areas with poor economies. Recent advance in acknowledging how iron is used and controlled has implications for creating targeted therapeutic approaches. A key regulator of iron balance, hepcidin, is a key player in the pathophysiology of IDA. This review shows how complicated IDA is and how important it is to have treatment plans that consider underlying causes, dietary factors, and socioeconomic factors.
Keywords: Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA), Erythropoiesis, Hemoglobin, Nutritional Deficiencies, Neurological Disorders, Iron Supplements.
DRY POWDER INHALERS TECHNIQUE OF COMMUNITY PHARMACISTS: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY FROM LAHORE, PAKISTAN
Authors: Shahid Sara , Batool Sheza , Dua-E-Zahra Syeda , Rafique Uswa , Shuja Muhannid , Nadeem Muhammad Subhan , Hamza Muhammad , Amjad Umair , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Inaccurate utilization of various inhaler devices may severely influence the drug therapeutic effectiveness. The aim of this study is to evaluate the community pharmacist knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding the use of dry powder inhalers (DPIs).
Method: The present observational study was conducted for the evaluation of pharmacist’s knowledge and patient counseling attitude concerning the use of DPIs. A total of 114 community pharmacists from various community pharmacies of Lahore, Punjab were selected and a validated questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge of community pharmacists. The DPI technique presented by “National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute” was used as criteria for evaluation. The covert simulated patient approach was used to evaluate the DPI technique of pharmacists without any biasness.
Results: Out of 114, only 27.2% pharmacists presented adequate knowledge about the correct use of inhaler device (DPIs). Pharmacists from chain pharmacies presented higher adequacy 66.7% as compared to individual pharmacies i.e., 33.3%. Pharmacists whose working experience was more than 5 years presented better DPIs technique knowledge.
Conclusion: The study demonstrated that majority of the community pharmacist (72.8%) have inadequate dry powder inhaler technique at baseline. Setup type (Chain pharmacies) and work experience were the demographic variables that were positively associated with the adequate technique.
                 
Peer Review History:
Received 15 July 2024;   Reviewed 7 September 2024; Accepted 21 October; Available online 15 November 2024
Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com
Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10
Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10
Reviewers:
Antonio José de Jesus Evangelista, Federal University of Ceará, UFC, Brazil, tony_biomed@hotmail.com
Asmaa Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Khalifa, Pharos University, Alexandria, Egypt, asmaa.khalifa@pua.edu.eg
AMELOBLASTOMA IN POPULATION OF YEMEN: ANALYZING THE PREVALENCE AND CLINIC PATHOLOGIC FEATURES OF AMELOBLASTOMA IN A YEMENI POPULATION
Authors: Al-Thobhani Samar Sultan , Da'er Sam Abd Alkarem , AL-Haddad Khaled A , Al-Moyed Khaled Abdulkarim , Al-Kibsi Taghreed Ahmed M , Al-Shamahy Hassan Abdulwahab
Published: November 2024

Background and aims: Ameloblastoma is an uncommon tumor of odontogenic epithelium (ameloblasts, or the outer part of the teeth during development) that can be benign or malignant. It usually appears in the lower jaw rather than the upper jaw. The initial ameloblastoma is often treated with radical tumor resection. Analyzing the prevalence and clinic pathologic features of ameloblastoma in a Yemeni population was the goal.
Material and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out in all patients who were diagnosed with oral tumors at the targeted centers in Sana’a city (Al-Mamoon Center, Central Laboratory, and Al-Awlqy Laboratory Centers) in the period June 2020 to June 2022. This study is based on data taken from patients’s files that include age, gender, location, and histopathology. The study used descriptive statistics and SPSS version 26 for data analysis, describing quantitative non-parametric data using median and parametric data using mean and standard deviation.
Results: The ameloblastoma tumor prevalence was 8.8% of all oral tumors (330 cases). The mean age of the ameloblastoma patients was 31.10±11.4 (± SD) years and ranged from 11 to 80 years, with 1:1.2 males to females. The majority of ameloblastoma cases occurred in the lower jaw (93.1%; N=27), and the posterior part of the lower jaw was the main site for ameloblastoma tumors (79.3%; N=23), and 86.2%; N=23 of ameloblastoma was epithelial origin and 13.8%; N=4 was variegated origin. In terms of histological type, 65.5%; N=19 of the cases were not diagnosed, and the remaining cases showed a rate of 24.1%; N=7 for a multicystic tumor and 10.3%; N=3 for a unicystic tumor. 96.6%; N=28 of ameloblastoma cases were benign tumors, and only 3.4%; N=1 case was a malignant tumor.
Conclusions: The prevalence of ameloblastoma was significant, and these findings increase the awareness level of determent type of lesion for better diagnosis, management, and preventing measures.
                  
Peer Review History:
Received 20 July 2024;   Reviewed 6 September 2024; Accepted 16 October; Available online 15 November 2024
Academic Editor: Dr. Amany Mohamed Alboghdadly, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, amanyalboghdadly@gmail.com 
Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.5/10
Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.5/10
Reviewers:
Dr. Gülay B Anadolu, Anadolu University, Eskisehir, Turkey, gbuyukko@anadolu.edu.tr
Dr. Sheikh Abdul Khaliq, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard University, Karachi, Pakistan, drwadhsheikh1974@gmail.com
EXPLORING HEALTHCARE MEDICATION-SKILLS, PROFESSIONALISM AND OPPORTUNITIES OF PHARMACY-BASED HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Nasrin Abdul , Wan Sulaiman Wan Mohd Azizi Bin , Azad Abul Kalam
Published: November 2024

Background: Through qualitative and quantitative methods, this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of the evolving role of pharmacy-based healthcare providers in Malaysia and highlight strategies to optimize their impact within the healthcare framework. The evolving landscape of healthcare in Malaysia has placed increasing emphasis on the role of pharmacy-based healthcare providers in delivering patient-centered care. As healthcare systems worldwide shift toward more integrated approaches, pharmacists are uniquely positioned to contribute through their expertise in medication management and patient education. This study explores the current state of medication skills, professionalism, and the opportunities available for pharmacists in Malaysia.
Objective: This study investigates the knowledge, professionalism, and perceptions of pharmacy-based healthcare providers among students at University College MAIWP International (UCMI) in Malaysia.
Method: A total of 341 students participated in a survey assessing their understanding of pharmacists' roles, responsibilities, and contributions to healthcare.
Results: The findings indicate a strong recognition of pharmacists' importance in medication management and patient care, with 93.5% acknowledging their role in helping manage medications effectively. Despite a consensus on the necessity for higher education in pharmacy, 89.2% of respondents believed a high school diploma suffices to become a pharmacy practitioner. Additionally, both male and female students demonstrated similar levels of awareness regarding the diverse responsibilities of pharmacists beyond traditional roles.
Conclusions: The study highlights the need for greater integration of pharmacy professionals into the healthcare system and calls for enhanced educational initiatives to elevate the understanding of pharmacy roles among the general public and healthcare providers.
                 
Peer Review History:
Received 21 July 2024;   Reviewed 13 September 2024; Accepted 25 October; Available online 15 November 2024
Academic Editor: Dr. Emmanuel O. Olorunsola, Department of Pharmaceutics & Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Uyo, Nigeria, olorunsolaeo@yahoo.com
Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 6.0/10
Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10
Reviewers:
Dr. Rima Benatoui, Applied Neuroendocrinology Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, University of Annaba, Algeria.   benattouiryma@gmail.com
Sheima Nadim Kadhim, Deparment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of pharmacy, University of Basra, Iraq. ph.sheimanadim@yahoo.com
Capacidad de carga del venado cola blanca (Odocoileus virginianus texanus) en el noreste de México
Authors: Gastelum Mendoza Fernando Isaac , González Saldívar Fernando Noel , Lozano Cavazos Eloy Alejandro , Uvalle Sauceda José Isidro , Romero Figueroa Guillermo , Ruíz Mondragón Enrique de Jesús , Cantú Ayala César Martín
Published: November 2024

El venado cola blanca se distribuye en los matorrales desérticos de México y representa una importancia ecológica y económica. El conocimiento sobre la producción de forraje en su hábitat es fundamental para diseñar planes de manejo. El objetivo fue evaluar la producción de biomasa aérea en un matorral desértico micrófilo y la capacidad de carga (K) del venado cola blanca para que sirva de referencia en el manejo extensivo de esta especie en el municipio de Monclova, Coahuila, al norte de México. La investigación se realizó en la Unidad de Manejo para la Conservación de la Vida Silvestre “Rancho San Juan”, desde octubre de 2018 a agosto de 2019. Para estimar la producción en los estratos alto, medio y bajo, se empleó el método de Adelaide. La estimación de K se basó en el modelo de Holechek. Se calculó una producción promedio de 621.19 kg MS ha-1. El estrato medio contribuyó con la mayor producción (377.77 ± 73.92 kg MS ha-1), y el estrato alto presentó la menor (37.59 ± 23.59 kg MS ha-1). Se registró la mayor producción en verano y otoño, con valores de 744.35 y 607.93 kg MS ha-1, respectivamente. Se estimó K en 4.94 ha por venado anualmente, equivalente a 209 venados en una superficie de 1,030 ha. Sin embargo, mediante un censo aéreo en octubre de 2020, se estimó una densidad de 1.77 ha por venado o 582 venados en las mismas 1,030 ha. Aunque este análisis sugiere un sobreuso del hábitat, se observa que, el mejoramiento del hábitat puede mantener el crecimiento poblacional de venados.
Prevalencia y diversidad de parásitos intestinales zoonóticos en perros domésticos en un área urbano en el Caribe colombiano
Authors: Sarmiento-Rubiano Luz Adriana , Garcia Toscano Yina , Ruiz Julieannie Paola , Delgado Soraca Lucena , Bettin Martínez Alfonso , Becerra Enríquez Jimmy
Published: November 2024

Los perros ofrecen múltiples beneficios en su relación con los humanos, pero también pueden ser portadores de parásitos zoonóticos que afectan la salud humana y animal. Las zoonosis representan alrededor del 58 % de todas las enfermedades infecciosas en los humanos. Se evaluó el parasitismo intestinal en perros con dueños en la ciudad de Barranquilla, Colombia, en los años 2016, 2017 y 2018. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo retrospectivo que incluyó 3,279 reportes de evaluación parasitológica de heces de perro. El 49.2 % de los perros presentó algún tipo de parásito intestinal. Los más frecuentes fueron los helmintos: Strongyloides sp. (9.6%), Toxocara canis (7.7 %) y Ancylostoma caninum (6.2 %); y los protozoarios Entamoeba spp. (10.0 %), Isospora spp. (6.9 %) y Giardia spp. (5.7 %). Un análisis de componentes principales de los perfiles parasitarios por año identificó diferencias significativas entre ellos. La presencia de parásitos intestinales de transmisión zoonótica en los perros domésticos analizados resalta la necesidad de establecer medidas correctivas y preventivas en el ámbito de la salud pública que permitan su control, ya que constituyen un riesgo significativo de enfermedad para los humanas y los perros.
A Hybrid Probabilistic Graph Based Community Clustering Model for Large Social Networking Link Prediction Data
Authors: Nennuri Rajasekhar , S. Iwin Thanakumar Joseph  , B. Mohammed Ismail  , L.V. Narasimha Prasad
Published: November 2024

Dynamic community clustering is essential for online social networking sites due to the high dimensionality and large data size. It aims to uncover social relationships among nodes and links within the network. However, traditional models often struggle with community structure detection because of the extensive computational time and memory required. Additionally, these models need contextual weighted node information to establish social networking feature relationships. To address these challenges, an advanced probabilistic weighted community detection framework has been developed for large-scale social network data. This framework uses a filter-based probabilistic model to eliminate sparse values and identify weighted community detection nodes for dynamic clustering analysis. Experimental results demonstrate that this filter-based probabilistic community detection framework outperforms others in terms of normalized mutual information, entropy, density, and runtime efficiency (measured in milliseconds).
Using Second-Generation Anti-Obesity Medications
Authors: Schmitz Sarah H. , Aronne Louis J.
Published: November 2024

Second-generation anti-obesity medications are more effective than their first-generation predecessors, resulting in an average weight loss of 15% when combined with lifestyle modifications. This article examines the efficacy and therapeutic implications of the three currently approved second-generation medications: setmelanotide for individuals with monogenic forms of obesity, semaglutide 2.4 mg, and tirzepatide. Particular emphasis is placed on the concurrent treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes with semaglutide 2.4 mg and tirzepatide.
Trends in Peripheral Artery Disease, Lower Extremity Revascularization, and Lower Extremity Amputation in Incident Type 2 Diabetes: A Danish Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Gyldenkerne Christine , K. W. Olesen Kevin , G. Thrane Pernille , K. Hansen Malene , Stødkilde-Jørgensen Nina , T. Sørensen Henrik , W. Thomsen Reimar , Maeng Michael
Published: November 2024

Objective: To examine trends in peripheral artery disease (PAD), lower extremity (LE) revascularization, and LE amputation in patients with incident type 2 diabetes.

Research Design and Methods: This cohort study included patients in Denmark diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 1996–2015 and followed until 2020. Patients were age- and sex-matched with as many as three general population individuals. Outcomes comprised 5-year cumulative incidences of first-time PAD, LE revascularization, and LE amputation. Age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) were computed with Cox regression.

Results: The cohort comprised 349,454 patients with incident type 2 diabetes (53% male; median age 62 years) and 1,025,054 general population individuals. Among patients with diabetes, decreases in 5-year cumulative incidence of PAD (from 6.2% to 3.4%; aHR 0.55 [95% CI 0.52–0.57]), LE revascularization (from 0.8% to 0.6%; aHR 0.80 [95% CI 0.71–0.90]), and LE amputation (from 1.0% to 0.4%; aHR 0.45 [95% CI 0.40–0.51]) occurred from 1996–2000 to 2011–2015. LE amputation decreased at all amputation levels (hip/thigh, knee/lower leg, and ankle/foot/toe amputation) during the study period. In the general population, 5-year cumulative incidence remained stable (1.2–1.5% for PAD, ~0.4% for LE revascularization, and ~0.2% for LE amputation). However, the relative rates of all outcomes were two- to three-fold higher in patients with diabetes than matched individuals in 2011–2015.

Conclusions: In recent decades, the cumulative incidence of LE complications substantially decreased in patients with incident type 2 diabetes while remaining stable in the general population.
Patient reported experiences of health care, quality of life and preoperative information in colon cancer
Authors: Reinwalds Maria , Larsson Charlotta , Grönkvist Rode , Angenete Eva
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose: Cancer may create problems and needs associated with impaired quality of life (QoL). The first health care encounter is important to enable patients to cope and may ultimately impact QoL. The aim of this study was to describe the patients’ experiences of encounters with health care professionals. Another aim was to explore the possible impact that the encounters may have on QoL 1 year after a colon cancer diagnosis. We also wanted to investigate whether patients had received information about treatment related side-effects.
Patients and methods: This substudy within the QoLiCOL (Quality of Life in COLon cancer) study included 1687 patients (male n = 876, female n = 811, mean age 71) between 2015 and 2019. Questionnaires were answered at diagnosis and after 1 year. QoL was self-assessed with a seven-point Likert scale. Analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression.
Results: A total of 1,550 patients (91.9%) reported feeling well received by health care professionals. We found no statistically significant association with QoL. Patients (87%) reported feeling well informed about their treatment, but few patients recalled having received information regarding potential side effects on bowel or sexual function.
Interpretation: Patients with colon cancer generally had a positive experience of the encounter with health care where they felt both well received and well informed. However, the amount of relevant information received was scarce. This indicates that it may be difficult to identify whether patients are properly informed prior to treatment for colon cancer only by asking if they feel well informed.
Factors associated with pain-related functional interference in people with chronic low back pain enrolled in a physical exercise programme: the role of pain, sleep, and quality of life
Authors: Moreno-Ligero Marta , Salazar Alejandro , Failde Inmaculada , Del Pino Rogelio , Coronilla M. Carmen , Moral-Munoz Jose A.
Published: November 2024

Objective: To identify the factors associated with the pain-related functional interference level in people with chronic low back pain.
Design: Cross-sectional.
Subjects/Patients: Chronic low back pain patients.
Methods: Sociodemographic data, pain intensity, pain-related functional interference, physical functioning and fitness, sleep quality, anxiety and depression, social support, and health-related quality of life were recorded. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed. A linear regression model was carried out to identify the factors associated with the pain-related functional interference level.
Results: 99 participants were involved (mean age: 54.37 SD: 12.44; women: 67.7%). 37.4%, 27.3%, and 35.4% were classified into low, moderate, and high pain-related functional interference level groups, respectively. Higher pain-related functional interference was associated with higher pain intensity (β: 0.724; p = 0.026), worse sleep quality (β: 0.077; p = 0.012), worse quality of life (physical (β: –0.539; p < 0.001) and mental (β: –0.289; p < 0.001), and lower consumption of weak opioids (β: –3.408; p = 0.037).
Conclusion: Beyond the pain experience and intensity among people with chronic low back pain, several biopsychosocial factors associated with this condition has been identified. Furthermore, higher pain intensity, worse sleep quality, worse quality of life, and weak opioids’ consumption have been related to the pain-related functional interference of this population.