bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Annexin A1 in the nervous and ocular systems
Authors: Wang Aijia , Zhang Hong , Li Xing , Zhao Yin
Published: August 2023

The therapeutic potential of Annexin A1, an important member of the Annexin superfamily, has become evident in results of experiments with multiple human systems and animal models. The anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving effects of Annexin A1 are characteristic of pathologies involving the nervous system. In this review, we initially describe the expression sites of Annexin A1, then outline the mechanisms by which Annexin A1 maintains the neurological homeostasis through either formyl peptide receptor 2 or other molecular approaches; and, finally, we discuss the neuroregenerative potential qualities of Annexin A1. The eye and the nervous system are anatomically and functionally connected, but the association between visual system pathogenesis, especially in the retina, and Annexin A1 alterations has not been well summarized. Therefore, we explain the beneficial effects of Annexin A1 for ocular diseases, especially for retinal diseases and glaucoma on the basis of published findings, and we explore present and future delivery strategies for Annexin A1 to the retina.
Visualizing Wallerian degeneration in the corticospinal tract after sensorimotor cortex ischemia in mice
Authors: Mu Jiao , Hao Liufang , Wang Zijue , Fu Xuyang , Li Yusen , Hao Fei , Duan Hongmei , Yang Zhaoyang , Li Xiaoguang
Published: August 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202403000-00039/inline-graphic1/v/2023-09-27T141015Z/r/image-tiff

Stroke can cause Wallerian degeneration in regions outside of the brain, particularly in the corticospinal tract. To investigate the fate of major glial cells and axons within affected areas of the corticospinal tract following stroke, we induced photochemical infarction of the sensorimotor cortex leading to Wallerian degeneration along the full extent of the corticospinal tract. We first used a routine, sensitive marker of axonal injury, amyloid precursor protein, to examine Wallerian degeneration of the corticospinal tract. An antibody to amyloid precursor protein mapped exclusively to proximal axonal segments within the ischemic cortex, with no positive signal in distal parts of the corticospinal tract, at all time points. To improve visualization of Wallerian degeneration, we next utilized an orthograde virus that expresses green fluorescent protein to label the corticospinal tract and then quantitatively evaluated green fluorescent protein-expressing axons. Using this approach, we found that axonal degeneration began on day 3 post-stroke and was almost complete by 7 days after stroke. In addition, microglia mobilized and activated early, from day 7 after stroke, but did not maintain a phagocytic state over time. Meanwhile, astrocytes showed relatively delayed mobilization and a moderate response to Wallerian degeneration. Moreover, no anterograde degeneration of spinal anterior horn cells was observed in response to Wallerian degeneration of the corticospinal tract. In conclusion, our data provide evidence for dynamic, pathogenic spatiotemporal changes in major cellular components of the corticospinal tract during Wallerian degeneration.
Treatment with β-sitosterol ameliorates the effects of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by suppressing cholesterol overload, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and apoptosis
Authors: Tang Xiuling , Yan Tao , Wang Saiying , Liu Qingqing , Yang Qi , Zhang Yongqiang , Li Yujiao , Wu Yumei , Liu Shuibing , Ma Yulong , Yang Le
Published: August 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202403000-00040/inline-graphic1/v/2023-09-27T141015Z/r/image-tiff

β-Sitosterol is a type of phytosterol that occurs naturally in plants. Previous studies have shown that it has anti-oxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-tumor effects, but it is unknown whether β-sitosterol treatment reduces the effects of ischemic stroke. Here we found that, in a mouse model of ischemic stroke induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion, β-sitosterol reduced the volume of cerebral infarction and brain edema, reduced neuronal apoptosis in brain tissue, and alleviated neurological dysfunction; moreover, β-sitosterol increased the activity of oxygen- and glucose-deprived cerebral cortex neurons and reduced apoptosis. Further investigation showed that the neuroprotective effects of β-sitosterol may be related to inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress caused by intracellular cholesterol accumulation after ischemic stroke. In addition, β-sitosterol showed high affinity for NPC1L1, a key transporter of cholesterol, and antagonized its activity. In conclusion, β-sitosterol may help treat ischemic stroke by inhibiting neuronal intracellular cholesterol overload/endoplasmic reticulum stress/apoptosis signaling pathways.
Activation of G-protein-coupled receptor 39 reduces neuropathic pain in a rat model
Authors: Zhang Longqing , Tan Xi , Song Fanhe , Li Danyang , Wu Jiayi , Gao Shaojie , Sun Jia , Liu Daiqiang , Zhou Yaqun , Mei Wei
Published: August 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202403000-00046/inline-graphic1/v/2023-09-27T141015Z/r/image-tiff

Activated G-protein-coupled receptor 39 (GPR39) has been shown to attenuate inflammation by interacting with sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator 1α (PGC-1α). However, whether GPR39 attenuates neuropathic pain remains unclear. In this study, we established a Sprague-Dawley rat model of spared nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain and found that GPR39 expression was significantly decreased in neurons and microglia in the spinal dorsal horn compared with sham-operated rats. Intrathecal injection of TC-G 1008, a specific agonist of GPR39, significantly alleviated mechanical allodynia in the rats with spared nerve injury, improved spinal cord mitochondrial biogenesis, and alleviated neuroinflammation. These changes were abolished by GPR39 small interfering RNA (siRNA), Ex-527 (SIRT1 inhibitor), and PGC-1α siRNA. Taken together, these findings show that GPR39 activation ameliorates mechanical allodynia by activating the SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway in rats with spared nerve injury.
Sexual Dysfunction in Diabetes Mellitus – An Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Mohan Gurinder , Mann Gurbir Singh , Sikri Tejinder
Published: August 2023

Objectives:

The objectives of the study are to assess the prevalence and type of sexual dysfunction (SD) in males and females living with diabetes mellitus and to further assess erectile dysfunction in males who score more than 10 points in the Arizona Sexual Experience (ASEX) scale with help of the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) scale.

Materials and Methods:

An observational cohort study was conducted on 153 diabetic patients visiting SGRDIMSR hospital, Vallah, Sri Amritsar in the Punjab region of North India. Patients aged between 18 and 50 years who were sexually active and in a healthy sexual relationship with their partner were included in the study after an informed consent. ASEX score was used for the assessment of SD and males who score more than 10 points were further assessed for erectile dysfunction with the help of IIEF-5 scale. SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23.0. Armonk, NY, USA: IBM Corp., Chicago, was used for data analysis.

Results:

SD was prevalent in 64.05% ( n = 98) of study participants overall, 65.9% ( n = 5) in female and 61.5% ( n = 40) in male groups, respectively. Mean scores of each sexual domain were drive (3.85 ± 1.10) > overall satisfaction (3.34 ± 1.06) > orgasm (3.14 ± 0.96) > arousal (3.11 ± 0.84) > erection/lubrication (2.65 ± 0.82) in that order. 69.84% of male diabetic had some degree of erectile dysfunction as assessed further by IIEF-5 score. The prevalence of SD was found to be higher in patients belonging to elderly age group ( P = 0.001), longer duration of diabetes ( P = 0.001), and deteriorating glycemic control ( P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Diabetes-related SD is quite prevalent in diabetic patients with 6 out of every 10 patients experiencing this problem. Thus, sexuality needs to be discussed frequently and openly with diabetic patients. In our study, factors such as elderly age of the patient, longer duration of diabetes, and worsening glycemic control of the patient are found to increase the prevalence of SD. Furthermore, the prevalence is higher in patients who already have existing complications of diabetes such as neuropathy, retinopathy, or albuminuria.
A study of phyllode tumors, pathological parameters, and clinical correlations
Authors: Ahmed Amal N. , Elshiekh Sara M. , El Dawi Nadia I.A.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Phyllode tumors (PTs) represent a unique entity as mixed fibroepithelial tumors of the breast, which are characterized by a particular histologic appearance, and biologically by frequent local recurrence and low metastatic potential. We aim to study patients with PTs to determine the different histopathological features regarding, tumor grade, margin, hemorrhage, heterologous differentiation, and clinical correlations regarding age, sex, site, local recurrence, and distant metastasis in Sudanese patients.

Materials and methods

This descriptive retrospective study was carried out on PT specimens obtained from the Pathology Department at National Health Laboratory (NHL), Soba University Hospital (SUH), and Khartoum Teaching Hospital (KTH) during the interval between January 2008 and December 2011. Clinical data were collected from patients’ request forms. The slides were reexamined by two histopathologists using WHO classification of PTs, 2012. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences.

Results

The study included 59 specimens diagnosed as PTs. After reexamination of the slides, two cases were excluded, one being a spindle-cell sarcoma and another being a fibroadenoma. The age of the patients ranged from 18 to 80 years. The most common affected age group was 21–40 years. The mean age was 35±1.75 years, and all of them were females. The tumors were found to occur with an equal propensity in either breast. In total, 18 (35.3%) cases were considered histologically benign, 28 (54.9%) cases were considered malignant, and five (9.8%) cases were classified as borderline. Pushing margins were present in all the cases, except three histologically malignant cases, in which the margin was infiltrative. A statistically significant positive relationship was present between tumor grade and presence of hemorrhage (P<0.05). Tumor size was significantly related to histological grade also (P<0.04). However, an insignificant relation was present between local recurrence and tumor grade (P<0.065). Heterologous mesenchymal differentiation was present only in histologically malignant cases. Regional lymph-node involvement was not detected in any of the studied cases.

Conclusion

In our study, PTs occurred exclusively in females, commonly in the age group 21–40 years, the mean age in our study was 35 years, which is 5 years younger than the mean age reported in the literature, with no reporting of cases below 18 years. Malignant lesions outnumbered the benign lesions. Heterologous differentiation, hemorrhage, large tumor size, and infiltrating tumor margin are positively related to histologically malignant cases. Local recurrence was not significantly related to malignant phenotype, it may reflect the importance of adequate surgical margin.
Prognostic significance of expressed androgen receptor, p53, and p53 mutation in molecular subtypes of breast cancer
Authors: Huwait Hassan F. , Abdulkhaliq Altaf A. , Abd Elmoneim Hanan M. , Nafady Asmaa , Elzahrany Huda R. , Edrees Azzahra , Babtain Nada , Elgendy Hamed , Nafady-Hego Hanaa
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite the introduction of several methods and new therapeutics to classify and treat breast cancer, it remains the most common cancer among women and contributes to higher mortality rates worldwide.

Purpose

This study aimed to analyze the expression levels of the androgen receptor (AR), P53 protein, and P53 mutations among molecular subtypes of breast cancers and their correlation with patients’ outcome.

Patients and methods

Immunostaining for estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), Ki-67, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) to stratify breast cancers into basal-like, HER2 type, luminal A or B types. AR, P53 expressions, and P53 mutations was compared among groups.

Results

Overall, 37.5% of basal-like and 7.1% of HER2 types of invasive breast carcinomas were AR positive. P53 was expressed in 62.5 and 50% of basal-like and HER2 types, respectively. The P53 mutation varied significantly among the molecular subtypes (P<0.0001) and was found in 43.8 and 42.9% of basal-like and HER2 types, respectively. Extensive nodal status, higher stage, and P53 mutation independently predicted the overall survival. AR-negative and P53 mutation-positive tumors had intermediate or poor Nottingham Prognostic Index and were more often nodal positive, higher grade, and higher stage than AR-positive and P53 mutation-negative tumors, respectively, and P53-expressing tumors.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the importance of AR, P53, and P53 mutations as differentiating cofactors and suggest that the targeting of these marker pathways could lead to novel therapies for those patients with limited therapeutic options. AR could be a potential therapeutic target for the management of breast cancer.
Immunohistochemical expression of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 and androgen receptors in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Shabana Marwa E. , El Din Amina A. Gamal , Anis Shady , Elalfy Zahraa Sh. , Rabah Thanaa M. , Kamel Noura
Published: August 2023

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer. It accounts for 15–20% of all types of breast cancer. Many research studies have begun to study the role of immunotherapy markers for possible TNBC treatment, among which are poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) and androgen receptors (ARs).

Aim

The aim of the study was to examine the immunohistochemical expression of each of PARP-1 and ARs in TNBC for their possible use as target therapy.

Patients and methods

A total of 52 paraffin blocks of TNBC cases were received from private laboratories with known status of detailed history. The expression of each of PARP-1 and ARs was studied by immunohistochemistry. Nuclear intensity and area percentage of the markers were evaluated using an image analysis system.

Result

PARP-1 was highly expressed in a large percentage of TNBC (91%). There was a significant relation between PARP-1 expression and stage of the tumor, with no significant relation with other clinicopathological parameters. AR expression was high in 29% of cases, with significant relation between its expression and each of grade of the tumor and lymph node metastasis. Morphometric results showed a specific positive correlation between Ki-67 proliferation and different AR statuses and also showed a positive significant correlation between Ki-67 and each of PARP-1 and AR immunohistochemical intensity and also degree of AR expression. There was a significant positive correlation between PARP-1 immunohistochemical intensity and AR immunohistochemical intensity.

Conclusion

The current study showed a high positive immunohistochemical expression of PARP-1 in a large percentage of TNBC cases (91%) and AR immunohistochemical expression in a substantial number of cases (29%), as well as a significant positive correlation between PARP-1 immunohistochemical intensity and AR immunohistochemical intensity, which support that both PARP-1 inhibitor and AR antagonist may be potential therapy options in TNBC treatment. The significant correlation noticed in the study between AR-negative immunohistochemical expression of TNBC cases and presence of lymph node metastasis may suggest the possible future role of AR receptors as a prognostic factor in TNBC cases.
The use of bipolar pure cut mode technology in dissection of parotid tumors: A novel technique
Authors: Abou-Ashour Hady , Shahin Mahmoud A. , Shaker Mohamed Nazeh
Published: August 2023

Background

The basic concern in parotid surgery is facial nerve preservation. Various methods of dissection have been used to excise the parotid tissue and spare the facial nerve and its branches. Combined (blunt, mosquito tip, monopolar, and bipolar electrocautery, and scissor dissection) procedures are the most widely used techniques. Further new methods were used as an alternative for hemostasis and dissection such as ligasure and ultrasonic devices. New emerging technology of bipolar energy with high voltage and low current gave a benefit of deep coagulation and powerful cutting with less spread of heat to the surrounding tissue. In this study, we tried a new dissection technique with the pure auto-cut bipolar electrodissection with the new versions of bipolar technology to report its effect in parotid tumor surgery.

The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new bipolar pure cut electrodissection and weighing its benefits in the preservation of the facial nerve branches and reducing the postoperative complications.

The secondary objective of the study was to compare the result of the new technique with the results of the conventional technique that was previously performed in our department and the complication of this new technique if any.

Patients and methods

This prospective and retrospective study was held in Menoufia University Hospital. Our study included 30 patients with parotid tumors, where 15 retrospective patients underwent conventional parotidectomy (superficial and/or total parotidectomy) and were referred as group B, and 15 prospective patients underwent parotidectomy (superficial or total parotidectomy) and were referred as group A, using the bipolar pure auto-cut electrodissection technique by advanced bipolar technology.

Results

The mean operative time was significantly lower in group A patients than in group B, where the time for superficial parotidectomy was 100±14 min in group A and 117±11 min in group B and for total parotidectomy was 118±12 min in group A and 139±18 min in group B (P=0.001). Regarding postoperative complications, in group A, we reported one case with temporary nerve affection. However, in group B, we reported two cases of wound infection, one case with salivary fistula, two cases with seroma, two cases of temporary nerve affection, two cases of permanent nerve branch affection, and one case of Frey syndrome. Regarding tumor recurrence, we reported only one case in group B.

Conclusions

Using the new bipolar pure cut technique in various types of parotid tumors is technically easier for meticulous fast dissection around the facial nerve branches, showing significantly shorter operative time and less incidence of seroma, wound infection, salivary fistula, and facial nerve injury.
Impact of concomitant vascular injury on the outcome of bile duct injury
Authors: Sallam Ahmed , Marwan Ibrahim , Ali Motasem M. , Gamal Abdelrahman , Khairy Saleh , Ayoub Islam , Attia Ahmed , Saaed Ghadier , Hegazy Osama
Published: August 2023

Background

Compared with open cholecystectomy, the frequency of iatrogenic bile duct damage (bile duct injury) has almost doubled as laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has become more prevalent. The authors aimed to analyze the prevalence of postcholecystectomy vasculobiliary injury and its influence on illness and death.

Methods

Medical records were reviewed on 50 consecutive patients with iatrogenic bile duct injuries from either open or laparoscopic cholecystectomy who were treated at the National Liver Institute, Menoufia University between January 1, 2020 and October 31, 2022.

The medical records were examined for patient demographics and preoperative and postoperative clinical scenarios, which included symptoms, operative procedures, diagnostic methods, operative repairs, length of ICU and Hospital stays, postoperative follow-up, short- and long-term complications, need for radiographic or operative revision, and patient mortality.

Results

The studied patients were allocated into two groups, according to presence of concomitant vascular injury; group A: cases did not develop concomitant vascular injury, group B: cases developed concomitant vascular injury. Vascular injury was significantly elevated in males than those without vascular injury (P=0.027). There were no significant variance among the studied groups as regard Hospital stay and ICU admission. There was no significant variance among the studied groups as regard short-term complications. There was a significant variance among the studied groups as regard long-term complications (P=0.003). Right lobe atrophy was significantly elevated in vascular injury cases than those without vascular injury.

Conclusions

Concomitant vascular injury postcholecystectomy prevalence was significantly associated with long-term complications; right lobe atrophy was significantly elevated in vascular injury cases than those without vascular injury.
Assessment of hepatic steatosis before and after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Hassan Tarik A.A. , Kamal Ayman , Kaddah Mona , Mostafa Karim , Omar Wael
Published: August 2023

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the cause of the new epidemic of chronic liver disease. Most patients are asymptomatic and accidentally diagnosed by imaging. Unfortunately, NAFLD can progress to inflammation, NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, HCC, decompensated cirrhosis, death, and/or liver transplantation might be required. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has positive effects on the comorbidities associated with obesity. FibroScan and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) can assess NAFLD non-invasively by measuring an area a hundred times larger than a biopsy sample.

Aim

To assess hepatic steatosis pre and post LSG by laboratory investigations and imaging (fibroscan and CAP).

Methods

Thirty patients were included in a prospective observational study according to the inclusion criteria. Full medical history, preoperative laboratory investigations and imaging were recorded. All patients underwent LSG and were followed up for 6 months postoperatively. Data were coded and analysed by using (SPSS) version 29.

Results

LSG was associated with a significant improvement in the controlled attenuation parameter CAP values, stiffness values and accordingly grades of steatosis and fibrosis as well as a highly significant decrease in BMI, and on follow-up fibroscan 6 months postoperatively. There was a significant improvement in total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and HDL.

Conclusion

LSG is associated with a significant improvement in BMI, lipid profile, CAP measurement and liver stiffness measurements which means improvement of steatosis. In morbidly obese candidates of bariatric surgery, Fibroscan with CAP (using the XL probe) was used as a simple non-invasive tool for detecting steatosis and fibrosis.
Our experience with pancreatic injury due to trauma in a rural area
Authors: Taş İlhan , Yiğit Ebral , Bilge Hüseyin
Published: August 2023

Aim

We aimed to analyze The pancreatic injuries due to trauma and their treatment.

Material and methods

This study includes the data of ten patients who were operated on due to abdominal trauma and were further diagnosed with pancreatic trauma in the General Surgery Service between January 2016 and December 2019.

Results

Of the 472 patients admitted to our hospital with abdominal trauma, 10 had pancreatic injuries. Seven (70%) of these patients were male and three (30%) were female. When the causes of the injuries were examined, six (60%) had gunshot wounds (GSW), three (30%) had stab wounds (SW), and one (10%) had a pancreatic injury due to falling from a height.

Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans were performed in eight (80%) patients. One patient’s CT was reported as normal. Other scans indicated findings suggestive of abdominal injury, such as free air and free fluid in the abdomen.

Following the pancreas, the stomach was the most injured organ (80%), followed by the liver, spleen and kidney, respectively. An isolated pancreatic injury was observed in only one case. Complications developed in eight (80%) patients, Three (30%) of our patients died in the postoperative period. The mean hospital stay of the patients was 9.8±6.14 (min: 3, max: 24) days.

Conclusion

The pancreas is not commonly injured in abdominal trauma.. Even if preoperative imaging methods are normal, the pancreas should be explored in order not to miss pancreatic injuries in trauma patients who were operated on.
Historical perspectives in prosthetics and orthotics area for rehabilitation of persons with locomotors disabilities from independence to current scenario
Authors: Chechani Gouri RajendraKumar , Chechani Rajendra Kumar
Published: August 2023

History of prostheses in India is very ancient from Rigveda, the Asvini brothers (vedic gods of healing and medicine) replaced Vispala's (horse of Prince Khela) broken leg with an artificial one. As years passes, many more evidence of uses of artificial limb came into existence. The purpose of this review is to show the evolutional era of prosthetics and orthotics in India as we are celebrating India's Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, 75 years of Independence. How work has been done to serve the Divyangjan's in their community level under the Indian government's flagship schemes, with the help of different national institutions, regional centers, nongovernment organizations, and many more. Along with the development of institutions and organizations, technology also developed the devices at that much level that one can trust these prosthetic and orthotic devices and live independently. Not only that, people are actively taking part in sports and recreations and participating in the paralympics and making India proud.
Immediate Effect of Simple Bhramari Pranayama on Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate of Hypertensive and Normotensive Individuals
Authors: Rajbhoj Pratibha Hemant , Pathak Satish D. , Bhogal Ranjeet Singh , Badave Akshata Sudesh , Pandey Santosh
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Hypertension, diabetes, and heart diseases are very common and silent noncommunicable diseases. If ignored, these will be life-threatening. As per recent yoga researches on hypertension, some of the yoga practices such as pranayama, meditation, and Kriya yoga have found to be very effective in managing hypertension and thereby controlling its adverse effects. Hence, the present study is undertaken to understand the effect of simple Bhramari pranayama on both hypertensive and normotensive individuals so as to help standardize this Pranayama and advise it as a preventive measure in the management of hypertension.

Methods:

The present study is a single-arm clinical trial. Ninety-seven participants, both male and females of age ranging from 30 to 60 years, were approached as the study participants. Of the 78 complying participants, 44 participants were hypertensive and 34 normotensives. A yoga expert taught Bhramari Pranayama one to one to all the participants. They were called on the following day for recording their blood pressure (BP) and pulse rate (PR) before and immediately after the thirty rounds of the practice.

Results:

Simple Bhramari Pranayama significantly lowered the systolic blood pressure (SBP) (P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (P < 0.001*), and PR (P < 0.001*) of the hypertensive individuals (P < 0.001*). In the normotensives group also, a significant decrease in SBP (P < 0.001*), DBP (P < 0.05) and PR (P < 0.001*) was evident. However, the changes evident in normotensives were well within the normal range of BP and PR.

Conclusion:

The present study concludes that simple Bhramari Pranayama has significantly reduced the BP and PR in the hypertensive as well as in the normotensive participants immediately after its practice.
Perception of Nursing Faculty Towards Their Preferred Profession Across the India
Authors: Raghu V. A. , Mohana Sundari S K
Published: August 2023

Background:

India is the country that produces the majority of nurses, and nurses are the core of the country's health-care system. The nurses can pursue a career in clinical work or teaching. The performance of the nursing faculties is significantly influenced by their perception toward preferred profession. The objective of the study was to assess the perception of nursing faculties toward their preferred profession.

Methodology:

All four areas of India – the east, west, north, and south - were covered in a cross-sectional descriptive study that involved 300 nursing faculties. The samples were contacted through direct approach and electronic mode by circulating the survey link created by SurveyMonkey App. Five-point Likert scale, which comprises total 15 statements, was used to collect data. After filling informed consent, the participants were asked to fill the questionnaire.

Results:

Nearly 2/3rd of the subjects (188) had a favorable perception toward their preferred profession and more than 1/3rd (112) of them had an unfavorable perception. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that marital status (P = 0.000; adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.100; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36–0.280), qualification (P = 0.010; AOR: 2.194; 95% CI: 1.205–3.993), and clinical experience (P = 0.011; AOR: 2.013; 95% CI: 1.173–3.454) had a significant influence the perception of faculty.

Conclusion:

Almost half of the subjects expressed negative perceptions. Although perception is a personal psychological factor, the government, professional bodies, and nurse managers can take the necessary steps to address the issue that dissatisfy nursing faculty can promote positive perception and that would impact their high-quality performance.
A Hospital-Based Prospective Short-Term Study on Efficacy of Infrapopliteal Angioplasty in Critical Limb Ischaemia in Terms of Limb Salvage and Quality of Life
Authors: Thomas Stalin , Iype Vimal , Abraham Santhosh John
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) refers to chronic ischaemic pain at rest, ulcers or gangrene due to arterial occlusive disease. It is the end stage of peripheral artery disease (PAD). The commonly available treatment is amputation in a low-income family, which is quite disastrous.

Aim:

This study aimed to find out the efficacy of infrapopliteal angioplasty in tibial lesions of CLI patients.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, observational study was conducted on 50 patients with CLI. The patient was taken up for tibial angioplasty and followed up for 4 months.

Results:

At the end of 4 months, the limb salvage rate was 92% and major amputation rate was 8%. The role of angioplasty in limb salvage is undoubted and has resulted in high levels of limb salvage.

Conclusion:

CLI lesion if amenable to revascularisation should have angioplasty with regular follow-up. Control of risk factors forms an integral part of the follow-up. Early detection of CLI is the need of the hour.
Effectiveness of Antibacterial-Coated Suture Material to Prevent Post-Operative Superficial Surgical Site Infection among Patients Undergoing Abdominal Wall Closure
Authors: Sabari J. P. , Praveen Raj M. R. Rakesh
Published: August 2023

Background:

Despite the use of prophylactic antibiotics, surgical site infection (SSI) is still a real risk of surgery. This study focuses on the method of wound closure with regard to the suture material used since the suture material itself has long been known to be a significant cause or cofactor in SSIs. We compared the rates of superficial SSIs in patients in whom the subcutaneous layer of abdominal incisions was closed with antibacterial-coated polyglactin 910 suture materials with those in whom coated polyglactin 910 alone was used.

Materials and Methods:

Patients were divided into two groups as per the unit system. The patients selected for the study were those undergoing abdominal wall closures. All patients above 18 years of age, who undergoes abdominal surgery for various ailments at our hospital, were included in the study. All the patients were given antibiotics pre-operatively and post-operatively. The patients were followed up for up to the day of discharge, 1-week post-discharge and 30-day post-operative as routinely followed in our institute.

Results:

There was a statistically significant relationship between plain polyglactin 910 and triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 (P < 0.05). The infection rate associated with the use of plain polyglactin 910 was 22.6% and with triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 was 12.3 (P = 0.025). The most common organism causing skin and skin-structure infection were Klebsiella (26%) and Staphylococcus (26%).

Conclusion:

Our study confirms a significant benefit to the patient in reducing superficial SSI in abdominal wall closure with the use of triclosan-coated polyglactin 910 when compared to plain polyglactin 910 usage for the same.
Safe Urethral Catheterisation in Males
Authors: Darsan S Lal , Pillai Biju S. , Krishnamoorthy H.
Published: August 2023

Urethral catheterisation is a bedside clinical skill which is usually acquired by clinicians during their internship or initial medical career. However, many clinicians lack confidence for male catheterisation afterward. This review article revisits the steps of safe urethral catheterisation with a review on male urethral applied anatomy, catheter design, common difficult catheterisation scenarios with pearls and pitfalls to tackle them and steps to remove a stuck urethral catheter from a urologist's perspective.
Did the socioeconomic inequalities in avoidable and unavoidable mortality worsen during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Korea?
Authors: Oh Rora , Kim Myoung-Hee , Lee Juyeon , Ha Rangkyoung , Kim Jungwook
Published: August 2023

OBJECTIVES: This study examined changes in socioeconomic inequalities in mortality in Korea before and after the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).METHODS: From 2017 to 2020, age-standardized mortality rates were calculated for all-cause deaths, avoidable deaths (preventable deaths, treatable deaths), and unavoidable deaths using National Health Insurance claims data and Statistics Korea’s cause of death data. In addition, the slope index of inequality (SII) and the relative index of inequality (RII) by six income levels (Medical Aid beneficiary group and quintile of health insurance premiums) were computed to analyze the magnitude and change of mortality inequalities.RESULTS: All-cause and avoidable mortality rates decreased steadily between 2017 and 2020, whereas unavoidable mortality remained relatively stable. In the case of mortality inequalities, the disparity in all-cause mortality between income classes was exacerbated in 2020 compared to 2019, with the SII increasing from 185.44 to 189.22 and the RII increasing from 3.99 to 4.29. In particular, the preventable and unavoidable mortality rates showed an apparent increase in inequality, as both the SII (preventable: 91.31 to 92.01, unavoidable: 69.99 to 75.38) and RII (preventable: 3.42 to 3.66, unavoidable: 5.02 to 5.89) increased.CONCLUSIONS: In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, mortality inequality continued to increase, although there was no sign of exacerbation. It is necessary to continuously evaluate mortality inequalities, particularly for preventable and unavoidable deaths.
Epidemiologic Questionnaire (EPI-Q) – a scalable, app-based health survey linked to electronic health record and genotype data
Authors: Salvatore Maxwell , Clark-Boucher Dylan , Fritsche Lars G. , Ortlieb Jacob , Houghtby Janet , Driscoll Anisa , Caldwell-Larkins Bryanne , Smith Jennifer A. , Brummett Chad M. , Kheterpal Sachin , Lisabeth Lynda , Mukherjee Bhramar
Published: August 2023

The Epidemiologic Questionnaire (EPI-Q) was established to collect broad, uniform, self-reported health data to supplement electronic health record (EHR) and genotype information from participants in the University of Michigan (UM) Precision Health cohorts. Recruitment of EPI-Q participants, who were already enrolled in 1 of 3 ongoing UM Precision Health cohorts—the Michigan Genomics Initiative, Mental Health Biobank, and Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes cohorts—began in March 2020. Of 54,043 retrospective invitations, 5,577 individuals enrolled, representing a 10.3% response rate. Of these, 3,502 (63.7%) were female, and the average age was 56.1 years (standard deviation, 15.4). The baseline survey comprises 11 modules on topics including personal and family health history, lifestyle, and cancer screening and history. Additionally, 11 optional modules cover topics including financial toxicity, occupational exposure, and life meaning. The questions are based on standardized and validated instruments used in other cohorts, and we share resources to expedite development of similar surveys. Data are collected via the MyDataHelps platform, which enables current and future participants to share non-Michigan Medicine EHR data. Recruitment is ongoing. Cohort data are available to those with institutional review board approval; for details, contact the Data Office for Clinical and Translational Research (DataOffice@umich.edu).
Conbercept combined with laser photocoagulation in the treatment of diabetic macular edema and its influence on intraocular cytokines
Authors: Zhan Hui-Qin , Zhou Ji-Lin , Zhang Jun , Wu De , Gu Chun-Yan
Published: August 2023

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus is growing in epidemic proportions and has become one of the most critical public health concerns. Cardiovascular complications associated with diabetes are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. The cardiovascular diseases that accompany diabetes include angina, myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral artery disease, and congestive heart failure. Among the various risk factors generated secondary to hyperglycemic situations, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are one of the important targets for future diagnosis and prevention of diabetes. In the last decade, AGEs have drawn a lot of attention due to their involvement in diabetic patho-physiology. AGEs can be derived exogenously and endogenously through various pathways. These are a nonhomogeneous, chemically diverse group of compounds formed nonenzymatically by condensation between carbonyl groups of reducing sugars and free amino groups of protein, lipids, and nucleic acid. AGEs mediate their pathological effects at the cellular and extracellular levels by multiple pathways. At the cellular level, they activate signaling cascades via the receptor for AGEs and initiate a complex series of intracellular signaling resulting in reactive oxygen species generation, inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis that may possibly exacerbate the damaging effects on cardiac functions in diabetics. AGEs also cause covalent modifications and cross-linking of serum and extracellular matrix proteins; altering their structure, stability, and functions. Early diagnosis of diabetes may prevent its progression to complications and decrease its associated comorbidities. In the present review, we recapitulate the role of AGEs as a crucial mediator of hyperglycemia-mediated detrimental effects in diabetes-associated complications. Furthermore, this review presents an overview of future perspectives for new therapeutic interventions to ameliorate cardiovascular complications in diabetes.
(Correct) Calculation of Payment During Annual Leave and Allowance in Lieu of Leave not Taken in the Public and Private Sectors and the Impact of the Case-law of the Court of Justice on the Decision-making of the Slovenian Courts
Authors: Weber Nana
Published: August 2023

The example of the case-law evolution of the Court of Justice (CJEU), concerning the correct interpretation of the requirement of “normal remuneration” to be received on basis of Article 7(1) of Directive 2003/88/EC during the period of annual leave and the corresponding allowance in lieu, the challenges of Slovenian courts, confronted with a rather static domestic and EU labour legislation, will be presented. Annual leave is a fundamental right of every worker in the EU, be it in private or public sectors, so its regulation on both legislative levels should be enacted with great precaution. It will be further presented that due to the implicit supranational and autonomous nature of the EU law it is nigh to impossible for the national legislators to regulate all aspects of this fundamental right as both levels of legislation “do not speak the same (normative) language”, especially with the CJEU as a constant interpretative “interloper”. In absence of uniform EU labour law interpretative alignment can only be asserted by the continuous efforts of the national judiciary.
Local Government Vertical Upward Accountability, Oversight, and the Intervention Mechanism in South Africa
Authors: Hamza Lenhard
Published: August 2023

Since democratisation, South Africa has struggled to create a stable system of local governance. There are constant municipal failures. Higher levels of government have to intervene in municipalities regularly. This study, therefore, set out to assess the effect of intervention mechanisms, including preventative measures, as part of the broader accountability and oversight setting. Based on a qualitative research approach, this paper argues that both prospective and retrospective accountability forms are weak. Post-factum interventions yield only limited results. Overall, these mechanisms are not able to form stable local governments and prevent municipal failures. Ultimately, this paper infers that strengthening prospective accountability and oversight mechanisms has the capacity to increase the stability of the local governance system. This finding has important implications for developing new accountability and oversight practices in South Africa and elsewhere.
The Effects of Good Urban Governance in Achieving Resilience of Informal Settlements in Zanjan City, Iran
Authors: Nasiri Hendeh Khaleh Esmaeil , Jamshidzehi Shahbakhsh Omid , Mohagheghpour Seyedeh Yasaman
Published: August 2023

The growth of urbanization created new challenges for local governments to match UN sustainable goals such as being resilient and inclusive. These goals are most unlikely in informal settlements characterized by vulnerability and rejection. This study investigates the relationship between good urban governance and the resilience of informal settlements in Zanjan City, Iran, using criteria such as participation, equity, effectiveness, accountability and security as independent variables. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software. Pearson correlation test and multivariate regression analysis were used to analyze the effect of the independent variable on the resilience of informal settlements in Zanjan. The results showed that all variables have a significant relationship with the dependent variable. The results of multivariate regression analysis indicated that the three variables of participation, effectiveness and accountability had a significant effect. However, the other two variables, equity and security, had a less significant effect on resilience. Five indicators of the Urban Governance Index can be used as a guiding tool for managing informal settlements.
The Development of Innovation Knowledge Management System in Tangerang Regency
Authors: Yohanitas Witra Apdhi , Ramadhan Arif , Pribadi Muhammad Akbar , Fahrani Novi Savarianti , Syah Robby Firman , Andreani Selfy , , Sudardi , Nugroho Alih Aji , Azmi Ilima Fitri , Nurjannah Annisa , Nuryono Rahmat , Supratikta Hadi , Saputro Tomo Hadi , Sipahutar Hotnier , , Suripto , , Marsono
Published: August 2023

The problem of regional innovation is the absence of data inventory, processes, lesson learning, well-integrated regional innovation management, and supporting infrastructure for activities, namely the Knowledge Management System container. Knowledge Management System is a tool, technique, and strategy used to maintain, analyze, organize, develop, and share business expertise. The purpose of this study is the availability of lesson learned knowledge management system governance in government agencies as a comparison, an integrated KMS model can support the sustainability of regional innovation in Tangerang Regency, and an integrated and sustainable KMS prototype of regional innovation. Research methods are carried out qualitatively with literature studies, comparative studies of research objects, and applied model tests in Tangerang Regency. Data collection techniques use literature review, observation, expert judgment, and in-depth interviews to test the KMS model for Regional Innovation. The expected result is the availability of an innovation knowledge management system model for local governments which can then be developed into a knowledge management system for regional innovation.
The Significance of Blockchain Implementation in the Issuance of Land E-Certificates: Examples from Ghana and Germany
Authors: Subekti Rahayu
Published: August 2023

Indonesia has established regulations on the implementation of land e-certificate. Unfortunately, the policy has not been able to provide real protection for the people, in this case the holders of land rights and other interested parties. This study aims to analyze the significance of the blockchain implementation as a security system for land e-certificate that generate further implications such as the ease of doing business and investment index. This study is a legal study with comparative approach. The comparison used cases of Ghana and Germany as examples. The results of the study show that Indonesia should create a blockchain system, like in Germany, which regulates the provision of business and investment guarantees as the outcome of policy implementation. The policy on blockchain must formulate norms that guarantee the determination of the legal status of land owners of land right and interested parties.
Local Self-government in European Countries: General Characteristics, Comparison and Ukrainian Realities
Authors: Blahodarnyi Andrii M. , Barabash Olha O. , Honcharov Andrii V. , Honcharov Mykola V. , Shatilo Volodymyr A.
Published: August 2023

This article is written to provide a general overview of the concept and principles of local self-government, in particular its role in the context of interaction with the central government. In addition, the article analyzes the features of local self-government in three EU member states and Ukraine. The leading scientific method used in the study is the formal-legal method, which allows the author to trace the relationship between the internal content and external expression (form) of state-legal phenomena and institutions. The author also seeks to apply the best European practices of local self-government to Ukraine.