bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear and Whorled Nevoid Hypermelanosis – A Case of Pigmentary Mosaicism
Authors: Jahnavi Yatham , Akshaya RC , Sathyanarayanan R , Narasimhalu C.R.V
Published: March 2024

Linear and whorled nevoid hypermelanosis is a rare skin pigmentation disorder, characterized by linear streaks and whorls of hyperpigmented macules along Blaschko’s lines. Lesions are commonly restricted to the trunk, neck, and extremities, sparing the face, palms, soles, and mucosae. Associated with this, certain cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, neurological, and developmental anomalies have been reported in the literature. Herein, we present a rare case of linear and whorled nevoid hypermelanosis involving the face, with musculoskeletal, genital, aural, and ocular abnormalities.
To assess the analgesic efficacy of adjuvant magnesium sulfate added with ropivacaine over ropivacaine alone as a continuous infiltration in total abdominal hysterectomy wound: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Goswami Devalina , Arora Mahesh K. , Iyer Karthik V. , Tangirala Nageswara Rao , Sharma Jai Bhagwan , Kumar Sunesh , Kalaivani Mani
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims:

Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) has been demonstrated to have analgesic property in various clinical settings. This study explores if addition of MgSO4 to ropivacaine increases its analgesic efficacy when infiltrated continuously in the postsurgical wound following total abdominal hysterectomy.

Material and Methods:

This randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care referral hospital in New Delhi, India. Fifty-two patients were randomized into two groups to receive the intervention of which 48 were able to complete the study. The first group (n = 26) received 0.25% ropivacaine infiltration and the second group (n = 26) received 0.25% ropivacaine with 5% MgSO4 at the incision site for 48 h postoperatively. Primary objective was to compare the total postoperative opioid (morphine) consumption by the study participants in both the groups and the secondary objectives were pain scores at rest and at movement, patient satisfaction score, and wound quality of life on the 7th postoperative day among the two groups.

Results:

Both the groups were comparable in their demographic characteristics. The median morphine consumed at 48 h postoperatively was 16.5 [0–77] mg in the ropivacaine group and 13[1–45] mg in the ropivacaine with MgSO4 group and the difference was statistically insignificant (P = 0.788). There was no statistical difference between the groups with respect to the pain scores, patient satisfaction, or wound quality of life at 7 days.

Conclusion:

The addition of MgSO4 to ropivacaine does not confer any additional postoperative analgesic benefits over ropivacaine alone in continuous wound infiltration following total abdominal hysterectomy.
A comparative study of key quality performance indicators in anesthesia and surgery in operation theatre at a tertiary care hospital in Rishikesh
Authors: Gupta Bhavna , Agrawal Sanjay , Agarwal Anubha
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims:

A Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is a critical metric measuring organizational success or specific activities, reflecting the periodic achievement of operational goals aligned with strategic objectives.

Material and Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study of key quality performance indicators, (CQI-NABH) concerning anesthesia and surgical services was conducted at a tertiary care hospital after taking institutional ethical clearance (AIIMS/IEC/21/150). It was as per COP 13, COP 14, and COP 15 standards of NABH 4th edition published in 2015. The study was conducted at the department of anesthesiology at a tertiary care hospital, and data were retrospectively analyzed from 01 October 2019, till November 2020. All patients undergoing elective or emergency surgical procedures under monitored anesthesia care and regional or general anesthesia during the study period were considered.The primary objective was to analyze Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) in perioperative services, with secondary goals including gap identification, suggesting corrective actions, and examining quality indicators during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Results:

Out of 8574 patients operated during the study, 6705 were in the four months before the pandemic, and 1869 were operated during the COVID-19 scenario. In the pre-COVID era, many of the cases were performed on an elective basis (71.23%), and emergencies constituted 16.9% of the total number of cases. In the COVID era, most of the cases were emergencies (45.4%) and semi-emergencies (40.25%), and elective cases were only 14.05% of the total cases performed. The percentage of modification of anaesthesia plans ranged from 0-3.34%. Adverse anaesthesia events were observed in 0-2.1%, primarily related to cardiovascular, respiratory, and airway issues. No anaesthesia-related mortality was reported. Prophylactic antibiotic administration within one hour of surgery ranged from 88-100%.

Conclusions:

Monitoring and evaluating healthcare performance, specifically through KPIs, is vital for optimizing care and resource utilization. These indicators provide an overview of hospital service efficiency, aiding in key areas such as patient treatment, satisfaction, healthcare quality improvement, cost reduction, and optimal resource utilization. Addressing identified issues ensures effective and sustainable quality improvement in anaesthesia services, emphasizing ongoing monitoring as a foundation for hospital quality assurance.
Postoperative urinary retention (POUR): A narrative review
Authors: Cambise Chiara , De Cicco Roberto , Luca Ersilia , Punzo Giovanni , Di Franco Valeria , Dottarelli Alessandra , Sacco Teresa , Sollazzi Liliana , Aceto Paola
Published: March 2024

Postoperative urinary retention (POUR) is defined as the inability to void in the presence of a full bladder after surgery. Complications include delirium, pain, prolonged hospitalization, and long-term altered bladder contractility. Comorbidities, type of surgery and anesthesia influence the development of POUR. The incidence varies between 5% and 70%. History and clinical examination, the need for bladder catheterization and ultrasonographic evaluation are three methods used to diagnose POUR. The prevention of POUR currently involves identifying patients with pre-operative risk factors and then modifying them where possible. Bladder catheterization is the standard treatment of POUR, however, further studies are necessary to establish patients who need a bladder catheter, bladder volume thresholds and duration of catheterization.
The pericapsular nerve group block, a highly selective blockage for intracapsular hip fractures: A case series
Authors: Ramírez Carles E. , Medina Noemí G. , García Maria M. , Font Anna P. , Sanchez Juan C. M. , Esteller Paula G.
Published: March 2024

Hip fracture is a very frequent clinical situation in the elderly and frail patient. The Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) has emerged as a highly selective block for the intracapsular hip fractures. We describe 44 patients with intracapsular hip fractures who underwent a PENG block in addition to spinal anaesthesia with. The main objective was to assess post-surgical pain control at the recovery room and after 24 h. Also, we considered the need for first of second analgesic rescue during the first 24 h after surgery. Only 10 patients presented mild pain at the recovery room. Up to 30 of them had pain after 24 h. However, 25 of these patients reported having mild pain. Only 9 patients required analgesic rescue for postoperative pain control. In conclusion, PENG block is a locoregional technique that allows good postoperative pain control and low opioid consumption during the postoperative period of intracapsular hip fractures.
Ultrasound-guided procedures for postoperative pain management in pediatric patients undergoing abdominal surgeries: A systematic review
Authors: Thanneeru Suresh K. , Kiran Molli , Padala Sri R. A. N. , Gupta Amit , Ahmad Reyaz , Chanchlani Roshan , Gunasekaran Vidhya , Agarwal Amit , Sharma Pramod K
Published: March 2024

Many ultrasound-guided procedures are available for administering analgesia via peripheral nerve blockade. This systematic review aims to compare different ultrasound-guided procedures to determine which procedure is better suited for pediatric abdominal surgeries. The objective is to understand the efficacy of ultrasound-guided procedures for postoperative pain management in children undergoing abdominal surgeries and to identify which procedure takes less time and is better suited for a particular surgery. A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, SCOPUS, Central Cochrane Registry of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library), and ScienceDirect databases for pediatric abdominal surgeries conducted with ultrasound-guided procedures for administering analgesia. We included studies involving randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Quasi-randomized controlled studies, prospective, retrospective observational studies, case series, case reports, letters, editorials, comments, animal studies, and studies from non-English literature were excluded. We reviewed 13 articles with 910 patients included. Age groups varied from 6 months to 21 years. The most common block used was the transversus abdominis block (47.76%), and the most common surgery performed was hernia and hydrocele (52.10%). Quadratus lumborum block was used in 26.92%, erector spinae block in 8.97%, modified transversus abdominus block and rectus sheath block in 9.62%, and ilioinguinal block in 6.73% of the patients. No complications were reported in any of the studies. Transversus abdominus block is less effective in two of the studies. Each procedure for pediatric postoperative analgesia has specific advantages and limitations, highlighting the complexity of tailoring interventions. Our review focuses on the advancements in ultrasound-guided analgesia for lower abdominal surgeries in pediatric patients while also emphasizing the need for future randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare efficacy, standardize practices, and improve patient outcomes.
Applications of artificial intelligence in anesthesia: A systematic review
Authors: Kambale Monika , Jadhav Sammita
Published: March 2024

This review article examines the utility of artificial intelligence (AI) in anesthesia, with a focus on recent developments and future directions in the field. A total of 19,300 articles were available on the given topic after searching in the above mentioned databases, and after choosing the custom range of years from 2015 to 2023 as an inclusion component, only 12,100 remained. 5,720 articles remained after eliminating non-full text. Eighteen papers were identified to meet the inclusion criteria for the review after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The applications of AI in anesthesia after studying the articles were in favor of the use of AI as it enhanced or equaled human judgment in drug dose decision and reduced mortality by early detection. Two studies tried to formulate prediction models, current techniques, and limitations of AI; ten studies are mainly focused on pain and complications such as hypotension, with a P value of <0.05; three studies tried to formulate patient outcomes with the help of AI; and three studies are mainly focusing on how drug dose delivery is calculated (median: 1.1% ± 0.5) safely and given to the patients with applications of AI. In conclusion, the use of AI in anesthesia has the potential to revolutionize the field and improve patient outcomes. AI algorithms can accurately predict patient outcomes and anesthesia dosing, as well as monitor patients during surgery in real time. These technologies can help anesthesiologists make more informed decisions, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. However, the implementation of AI in anesthesia also presents challenges, such as the need to address issues of bias and privacy. As the field continues to evolve, it will be important to carefully consider the ethical implications of AI in anesthesia and ensure that these technologies are used in a responsible and transparent manner.
Nonsurgical management of puberty-associated gingival enlargement in an adolescent female: a case report with a follow-up of 6 months
Authors: Agrawal Ritu , Chauhan Shailendra S , Sharma Satendra , Sinha Aditya
Published: March 2024

Sex hormones have long been thought to have an impact on periodontal tissue, bone turnover, wound healing, and the development of periodontal disease. In adolescence, hormonal changes may affect both male and female gingival tissues, altering the tissues’ response to dental plaque and perhaps causing conditioned gingival growth. Such overgrowths may cause several issues, including speech difficulties, gum bleeding, and even aesthetic problems. The ability to deal with hormonal factors linked to the reproductive process is well understood by oral health-care experts. In the current case study, we have covered how to treat gingival inflammatory overgrowth associated with puberty through a nonsurgical approach. The present case report leads us to conclude that nonsurgical treatment for puberty-induced gingival enlargement is the best alternative treatment option than surgical intervention.
Evaluation of bone regeneration using human derived-gingival mesenchymal stem cells loaded on beta tricalcium phosphate and hyaluronic acid: an experimental study
Authors: Abo-Zaid Mohammed Abd-ElFattah , El Razzak Mona Y. A. , Sarhan Naglaa I. , Alkaleny Heba H. , Badr Ahamed M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Healing of critical-sized bone defects (CSDs) is a challenging problem in both clinical and research settings.

Aim

The present study aimed to assess the regenerative capacity of human gingival-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hGMSCs) loaded on beta-tricalcium phosphate scaffold (β-TCP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) gel in surgically created standardized CSDs in rabbit’s femurs.

Materials and methods

To achieve this aim, CSDs of 6 mm diameter each, were unilaterally created in femur of adult New Zeeland male white rabbits (n = 18). The rabbits were then divided randomly into three groups and received the following treatment modalities: group A (study group): six defects were treated with hGMSCs loaded on β-TCP scaffold combined with HA gel; group B (positive control group): six defects (n = 6 rabbits) were treated with β-TCP combined with HA gel; group C (negative control group): three defects were left without intervention. Two rabbits from groups A, B and one rabbit from group C were sacrificed at 6 weeks, femurs were dissected out to evaluate bone healing histologically and histomorphometrically.

Results

The findings of this study indicate that, hGMSCs exhibited fibroblast like morphology and expressed phenotypic MSCs markers (positive for cluster of differentiation CD105 and negative for CD34). Histologically, local application of hGMSCs loaded on β-TCP scaffold with HA gel showed enhanced pattern of bone regeneration as compared to the unloaded scaffold. Histomorphometrically, there was a statistically significant difference in the newly formed bone between the bony defects treated with hGMSCs and control groups.

Conclusion

GMSCs can be considered as a dependent source of MSCs with bone tissue regenerative capacity.
Effective rehabilitation of auricular defects with two different prosthetic materials: case reports
Authors: Viswanathan Anitha K. , Chidambaranathan Ahila S.
Published: March 2024

A person’s face being a visible element, instant physical care and mental support is mandatory for patients affected with maxillofacial defects. Defects in noticeable locations like the ear create a lacuna which deteriorates the quality of life of the victims. Immediate restoration of the defect with artificial prosthesis becomes crucial. Two such cases of acquired auricular defects rehabilitated with maxillofacial prosthesis are described in this manuscript. This case report briefs about two patients with auricular defects reported for restoration. Case one had a congenital agenesis of his right ear whereas case two presented with a history of trauma. Immediate management with artificial ear prosthesis was decided to restore the patients to normalcy of life. Hence an effective restoration was carried out using maxillofacial auricular prosthesis made from medical grade silicone and acrylic. They were retained onto to the residual external structures.
A Deep Learning Framework for Prediction of Cardiopulmonary Arrest
Authors: Potluri Sirisha , Sahoo Bikash Chandra , Satapathy Sandeep Kumar , Mishra Shruti , Naga Ramesh Janjhyam Venkata , Mohanty Sachi Nandan
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: The cardiopulmonary arrest is a major issue in any country. Gone are the days when it used to happen to those who are aged but now it is a major concern emerging among adolescents as well. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiac arrest and stroke is still a major concern and remains a public health crisis. In past years India has witnessed many cases of heart related issues which used to occur predominantly among people having high cholesterol. But now the scenario has changed, and cases have been observed in people having normal cholesterol levels. There are several factors involved in heart stroke such as age, sex, blood pressure, etc. which are used by doctors to monitor and diagnose the same.
OBJECTIVES: This paper focuses on different predictive models and ways to improve the accuracy of prediction by analyzing datasets on how they affect the accuracy of certain algorithms.
METHODS: The factors contributing to heart issues can be used as a beacon to predict the stroke and help an individual to further consult a doctor beforehand. The idea is to target the datasets and the prediction algorithms of deep learning including advanced ones to improvise it and attain a better result.
RESULTS: This paper brings out the comparative analysis among neural network techniques like ANN, Transfer Learning, MAML and LRP in which ANN showed the best result by giving the highest accuracy of 94%.
CONCLUSION: Furthermore, it discusses a new attribute called “gamma prime fibrinogen” which could be used in the future to boost prediction performance.
An LSTM based DNN Model for Neurological Disease Prediction Using Voice Characteristics
Authors: M Anila , Kumar G Kiran , Rani D Malathi , Prasad Kantipudi M V V , Jayaram D
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: A neurological condition known as Parkinson's disease (PD); it affected millions of individuals worldwide. An early diagnosis can help enhance the quality of life for those who are affected with this disease. This paper presents a novel Deep neural network model based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) design for the identification of PD using voice features.
OBJECTIVES: This research work aims to Identify the presence of PD using voice features of individuals. To achieve this, a Deep neural Network with LSTM is to be designed. Objective of the work is to analyse the voice data and implement the model with good accuracy.
METHODS: The proposed model is a Deep Neural Network with LSTM.
RESULTS: The proposed method uses the features gleaned from voice signals for training phase of LSTM model which achieved an accuracy of 89.23%, precision value as 0.898, F1-score of 0.965, and recall value as 0.931and is observed as best when compared to existing models.
CONCLUSION: Deep Neural Networks are more powerful than ANNs ahd when associated with LSTM , the model outperformed the job of identifying PD using voice data.
Precariedad en el empleo periodístico: dimensiones y factores predictores
Authors: Rodelo Frida V. , Minor Montes Milthon , Rivera Lugo Natalia
Published: March 2024

Introducción: El concepto de precariedad laboral se ha usado principalmente desde la década de 1980 para hablar del fenómeno internacional de deterioro del empleo caracterizado principalmente por la inestabilidad e inseguridad social del empleo y la vulnerabilidad laboral de la persona trabajadora. Hay consenso en la literatura acerca del carácter multidimensional y progresivo de la precariedad laboral. Se han considerado cuatro componentes clave de esta: el temporal, organizacional, económico y social. Distintas tendencias en las condiciones laborales han llevado a sostener que está teniendo lugar un proceso de precarización del empleo periodístico. Metodología: Para conocer el nivel de precariedad laboral y de sus dimensiones en el empleo periodístico y saber qué factores sociodemográficos, laborales y organizacionales las predicen se realizaron pruebas Kruskal-Wallis y un análisis de regresión logística ordinal a datos provenientes de la encuesta Worlds of Journalism Study-3 aplicada en México. Resultados: La mayor parte de las personas periodistas se ubicó en un nivel de precariedad media. La dimensión de precariedad más registrada fue la organizacional, indicada a partir de una carga de trabajo o demasiado baja o demasiada alta. Discusión y conclusiones: Las modalidades de trabajo atípicas e informales emprendidas por los medios para reducir gastos de nómina se traducen en mayores niveles de precariedad laboral para las y los periodistas. Ser mujer, hacer trabajo freelance y trabajar en un medio digital o local son factores que se relacionan con mayores niveles de precariedad.
Computed tomography for prediction of esophageal variceal bleeding
Authors: Elhendawy Mohammed , Elkalla Ferial
Published: March 2024

This letter to the editor relates to the study entitled “The role of computed tomography for the prediction of esophageal variceal bleeding: Current status and future perspectives”. Esophageal variceal bleeding (EVB) is one of the most common and severe complications related to portal hypertension (PH). Despite marked advances in its management during the last three decades, EVB is still associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The risk of first EVB is related to the severity of both PH and liver disease, and to the size and endoscopic appearance of esophageal varices. Indeed, hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) are currently recognized as the “gold standard” and the diagnostic reference standard for the prediction of EVB, respectively. However, HVPG is an invasive, expensive, and technically complex procedure, not widely available in clinical practice, whereas EGD is mainly limited by its invasive nature. In this scenario, computed tomography (CT) has been recently proposed as a promising modality for the non-invasive prediction of EVB. While CT serves solely as a diagnostic tool and cannot replace EGD or HVPG for delivering therapeutic and physiological information, it has the potential to enhance the prediction of EVB more effectively when combined with liver disease scores, HVPG, and EGD. However, to date, evidence concerning the role of CT in this setting is still lacking, therefore we aim to summarize and discuss the current evidence concerning the role of CT in predicting the risk of EVB.
Spectrophotometric determination of amoxicillin in pharmaceutical formulations using normal and reverse flow injection analysis systems: A comparison study
Authors: Mohammed Tabarak , Hadi Hind
Published: March 2024

The combination of flow injection technique and spectrophotometric detection can be employed for the rapid and low-cost methods for antibiotic assay. In this work, two flow injection analysis (FIA) systems, normal and reverse (nFIA and rFIA), combined with UV-Vis spectrophotometric technique were used for amoxicillin determination in its pure and pharmaceutical preparations. A colorimetric coupling reaction between amoxicillin and diazotized p-toluidine produced a bright yellow azo dye and quantified at a maximum wavelength of 426 nm. For nFIA and rFIA procedures, the amoxicillin calibration graphs had an RSD of less than 2% and were linear in the ranges of 5-200 and 1-140 µg/mL, respectively. The limits of detection and quantification were 1.41 and 4.71 µg/mL of amoxicillin for nFIA and 0.39 and 1.31 µg/mL for rFIA, respectively. The physical and chemical factors that could influence color sensitivity were investigated. Various commercial formulations containing different amounts of amoxicillin were successfully tested using the developed approaches, which demonstrated to be easy, rapid, reproducible, and interference-free.

KEY WORDS: Amoxicillin, Normal FIA, Reverse FIA, p-Toluidine, Diazotization reaction

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(3), 577-590.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i3.3
Forensic investigation of the Gouache landslide disaster, Western Region, Cameroon
Authors: Wantim Mabel Nechia , Ughe Wai Glory , Kwah Dimo Cedric , Bah Tebid Caprice , Quinette Nguh , Ayonghe Samuel N.
Published: March 2024

This study made use of a disaster forensic approach to investigate the root causes of the landslide disaster which occurred in Gouache,  West Region, Cameroon on 29th of October, 2019 that registered 49 to 60 deaths. The aims of the study were to;1) identify the natural  and man-made causes of the landslide; 2) determine household vulnerability factors; and 3) identify the administrative weaknesses that  led to the disaster. To achieve this, geological data was collected from field observations; rainfall data for a period of 30 years (1988 to  2018) with additional monthly data (January to December) for 2019 was obtained from the National observatory on Climate change  (ONACC), Yaounde; satellite imagery from Landsat ETM+ and 8 (2001 and 2020) and SRTM DEM were used to assess land use/ landcover  changes and slope respectively; questionnaire administration, household and key informant interviews were used as primary data  collection tools. Findings revealed that the root causes were: heavy rainfall that occurred prior to and during this event; the presence of  weathered granitic rocks on steep slopes, and springs that increased landslide susceptibility. Susceptibility to landslides was fostered by  human activities such as: significant reduction of the savannah vegetation and cutting of the slope for house construction. Household  vulnerability factors were lack of awareness of landslide hazards and large household sizes (4-6 persons). Over 70 % of the landowners  constructed without a building permit and had no land certificate. The administrative authorities acknowledged that Gouache was officially recognized as a landslide susceptible zone. The findings generated in this study would be useful for the government to  strengthen or re-adjust existing policies or strategies of disaster risk reduction in the area.
A special case of acute portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Li Xin , Wu Zhoupeng
Published: March 2024

Among the risk factors and underlying etiology of acute portal vein thrombosis, viral hepatitis is an extremely rare cause. We report a case of a young healthy 40-year-old male who was diagnosed with acute hepatitis A virus infection and presented with acute portal vein thrombosis. This article describes the possible pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical symptoms, and treatment of acute portal vein thrombosis in this patient. Based on this patient’s history and treatment, we encourage testing for hepatitis A serological markers in the emergency department in a population with recent hepatitis A exposure risk factors and concurrent unexplained acute portal thrombosis.
Comparing motor development in children with hydrocephalus after treatment with ventriculoperitoneal shunt and endoscopic third ventriculostomy: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Manda Martha , Nambuzi Eveness , Kaphesi Frank , Likalowa Clement , Mwambyale Tuntufye , Kaunda James , Kamalo Patrick
Published: March 2024

Introduction Ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion (VPSI) and endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) are the major procedures for treating pediatric hydrocephalus. However, studies comparing motor development following the two treatments are limited.Objective We aimed to determine motor development outcomes in children with hydrocephalus up to 2 years of age after undergoing VPSI or ETV, to identify which surgical approach yields better motor outcomes and may be more effective for Malawian children.Methods This was a cross-sectional study where we recruited two groups of participants: one group consisted of children with hydrocephalus treated with VP shunt whilst the other group were treated with ETV, at least 6 months prior to this study. Participants were identified from the hospital records and were called to come for neurodevelopmental assessment using the Malawi Development Assessment Tool (MDAT).ResultsA total 152 children treated for hydrocephalus within an 18-month period met the inclusion criteria. Upon follow up and tracing, we recruited 25 children who had been treated: 12 had VPSI and 13 had ETV. MDAT revealed delays in both assessed motor domains: 19 out of the 25 children had delayed gross motor whilst 16 of 25 had delayed fine motor development. There was no significant difference between the shunted and the ETV groups. Conclusion Children with hydrocephalus demonstrate delays in motor development six to 18 months after treatment with either VPSI or ETV. This may necessitate early and prolonged intensive rehabilitation to restore motor function after surgery. Long-term follow-up studies with bigger sample sizes are required to detect the effect of the two treatment approaches.
Utilisation of standardised outcomes measures by clinical Physiotherapists working in Namibia: a nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Chiwaridzo Matthew , Shumba Tonderai Washington , Kamba Farirai , Geurtze Etheline Olivia , Heiden Christiane von der , Mudzi Witness
Published: March 2024

Introduction The utilisation of standardised outcome measures (SOMs) is crucial for evaluating patients’ health status. Physiotherapists are highly recommended to use SOMs routinely. Despite the well-documented benefits of using SOMs, the utilisation of SOMs in clinical practice is still problematic particularly in Africa. In Namibia, there is dearth of information about SOMs utilisation by physiotherapists and the associated factors. This study was aimed at determining the extent of routine utilisation of SOMs and the associated demographic and work-related factors among physiotherapists. Methods A cross-sectional, nationwide, online survey was conducted and all registered qualified physiotherapists and intern physiotherapists working in public or private hospitals/clinics were invited to participate. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 29.0. The Chi-square (χ2) and Fishers exact test investigated the relationship between the associated factors and routine SOMs utilisation. The alpha level was set at 0.05.Results Of 230 participants who received the invitational link, 99 (43.0%) responded timeously to the call to participate. Although 97.9% (n=94) of the participants indicated having used at least one type of SOMs in the last six months, the frequency of utilisation varied. Routine utilisation, defined as 70%-100% of the time, was reported in only 49.0% of the participants. The Chi-square test only showed significant findings for gender (p=0.01) and clinical specialty (p=0.004). The odds of utilising SOMs were 4.13 greater among physiotherapists with a clinical specialty and 3.88 times greater for females than males.ConclusionThe rates for routine utilisation of SOMs by Namibian physiotherapists are unfavourable. Female gender and clinical specialty influenced the utilisation of SOMs in daily clinical practice. Cognisant of the study limitations, these results call for the need to improve the routine utilisation of the SOMs in Namibia.
The Interest in Betting, Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs in Malawi: Changing Trends between 2012-2022
Authors: Demir Gülcan , Bandawe Chiwoza
Published: March 2024

BackgroundIn recent years, the online gambling market has rapidly developed, and betting has become one of the most popular forms of gambling. The aim of this study was to analyse the interest of the Malawian population in terms related to betting, sports betting, alcohol, cigarettes, and some psychoactive drugs through the relative search volumes of Google Trends. Methods Internet search query data related to betting, sports betting, alcohol, cigarettes, and psychoactive drugs were obtained monthly from Google Trends for the period 2010-2022. Comparisons of interest levels in these topics were conducted in Malawi, and correlation coefficients were calculated.Results In Malawi, relative search volumes for betting and sports betting terms were the highest (average RSVs: 66% and 30%). It was found that from 2019 onwards, the interest in betting and sports-related search topics and keywords increased significantly (p < 0.001). Strong positive correlations were found between betting-related keywords and alcohol and gross domestic product (r = 0.831 and r = 0.901, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between betting and psychoactive drug-related terms (minimum r = 0.417, p < 0.01). Conclusions This study concludes that the interest of the Malawian population in betting has increased in recent years, while interest in psychoactive drugs and alcohol remains high. Gross domestic product is highly correlated with society’s interest in betting. It was additionally found that Google Trends can be used as a tool to predict and monitor future risky behaviours, such as gambling disorder.
Clinical features and Surgical Outcomes of Thyroid Goitre Presenting to Ear, Nose and Throat Department of Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Ahoka Michel Tohadi , Mulwafu Wakisa
Published: March 2024

IntroductionIn Malawi there is a perception that goitre is common and causes significant public health and economic burdens. The purpose of this study was to assess the demographic distribution, clinical presentation, investigations, management, outcomes and complications of goitre seen at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), Blantyre, Malawi.Method A single hospital-based descriptive retrospective study from January 2017 to December 2018 for all patients presenting with goitre.Results Out of 9073 patients who presented to ENT department, 105 patients presented with goitre representing 1% of all patients seen during the study period. The Male: Female ratio was 1:25. The mean symptom duration with goitre was 4 years (SD +/- 6.4). Thyroid function test results were available in 54 patients and out of these, 53(98%) patients were euthyroid. Ultrasound scan (USS) reports were available in 44 patients, of these 32(73%) were multinodular goitres. In 70 cases, pathology results were available and showed that 20% were thyroid cancers and that papillary thyroid carcinoma was the commonest cancer (64%).Two recurrent laryngeal nerve injuries were recorded in 79 surgical procedures representing 2.5% of patients (6.3% overall complication rate). Inpatient stay ranged from 2 days to 49 days (median 3 days).Conclusion Goitre at our centre is more common in women than in men. One in five patients in this cohort had thyroid cancers. This prevalence is higher than other areas in the world highlighting the need for cytology services on every patient before surgery and histology services after surgery. Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury and other complications were infrequent demonstrating local high safety of thyroid surgery, despite late presentation to the ENT department.
Hydrothermic reduction of rutile-ilmenite mineral producing an oxyhydride η-Ti2FeO0.2H2.8: Towards in-situ hydrogen production and storage
Authors: Mohammed I. A. , Mustapha S. I. , Aderibigbe F. A. , Hambali H. U. , Afolabi A. M. , Muritala K. B. , Aliyu U. M.
Published: March 2024

As an alternative to the physical storage of hydrogen as compressed gas or liquid hydrogen requiring high-pressure tanks and cryogenic temperatures, the material-based storage of hydrogen in solids involves hydrogen uptake and release from the surface of adsorbents or within interstitials of hydrides. We report a hydrothermic reduction of rutile-ilmenite mineral into hydrogen-rich fibrous products, η-Ti2FeO0.2H2.8, in an ethanol-water system at 120°C for 4 hrs. As part of a project to generate hydrogen from water-ethanol system using advanced catalysts containing graphene oxide (GO) as carbon source, a system of 62.5 μg graphene oxide per g of rutile-ilmenite mineral was employed in a concentration of 50 mg/mL of ethanol-water solution. As well as in the original mineral, XRD of thermal annealed mineral between 500 and 800°C showed no hydride or phase change in rutile-ilmenite. With hydrothermal treatment of GO/rutile-ilmenite (50 mg/mL) in ethanol-water (1:1 v/v) at 120°C, a hydrogen-rich ferrotitanium hydride phase was formed, and there was a change in morphology from plate-like and granular particles into fibrous structures. Like the release of hydrogen by its ‘carriers’ (e.g., CaH2, NH4BH4, NaBH4, NH3, formic acid), it is anticipated that hydrogen was generated from the ethanol-water system in-situ, which reduced the rutile-ilmenite mineral into a hydride. EDX results showed that the reduction affected specifically the oxides of Fe and aluminosilicates in the mineral. The study demonstrated a possibility of in-situ hydrogen generation and storage via low-temperature graphene oxide hydrothermic reduction of rutile-ilmenite mineral in an ethanol-water system.
Automated identification of heart arrhythmias through HRV analysis and machine learning
Authors: Lawal S. K. , Muniru I. O. , Yahaya S. A. , Ibitoye M. O
Published: March 2024

Sudden cardiac death and arrhythmia are responsible for about 15-20% of cardiovascular disease incidences. Conventionally, the prediction and diagnosis of cardiovascular disorders (CVDs) have been mainly through the evaluation of ECG patterns by cardiologists. To improve the accuracy of and automate this process, and facilitate early detection, Heart Rate Variability (HRV) analysis has been promoted as a diagnostic and predictive tool for CVDs. In the present study, a machine learning model capable of detecting the presence of arrhythmia, using HRV indices obtained from ECG signals was built. Unlike similar works in the literature, this study deployed the developed model on Raspberry Pi with Streamlit software. Two ECG datasets from the Physionet database, one with arrhythmia patients (48 half-hour recordings) and another with healthy individuals (18 24-hour recordings), were employed. An ensemble of seven different machine learning models was used on the two sets of datasets to classify ECG recordings into Arrhythmia and Normal Sinus Rhythm (NSR). The best models were able to predict the presence of Arrhythmia in a 3-minute recording with an accuracy of 95.96%, and in a 10-minute recording with an accuracy of 96.20%. These performance measures were calculated using test dataset. The Random Forest models also had the highest precision, AUC, (Area under the Curve) recall, and F1 scores compared to the other models tested. The highest performing model (i.e., Random Forest Model) was then deployed onto a Raspberry Pi with Streamlit as the software interface for usability. This was done to facilitate a smooth user experience for faster and seamless diagnoses for cardiologists.
Detection and confirmation of electricity thefts in Advanced Metering Infrastructure by Long Short-Term Memory and fuzzy inference system models
Authors: Otuoze A. O. , Mustafa M. W. , Sultana U. , Abiodun E. A. , Jimada-Ojuolape B. , Ibrahim O. , Avazi-Omeiza I. O. , Abdullateef A. I.
Published: March 2024

The successful implementation of Smart Grids heavily relies on energy efficiency, particularly through the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and Smart Electricity Meters (SEM). However, cyber-attacks pose a threat to SEM, with electricity theft being a primary motivation. Despite the valuable data provided by SEM for analytical purposes, existing methods to identify theft involve cumbersome and costly on-site inspections. This research proposes an electricity theft detection model using the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network. The model employs a collective anomaly approach, defining prediction errors through a threshold and forecast horizon. Suspicious consumption profiles are analysed, and a fuzzy inference system (FIS) implemented in MATLAB 2021b is used to model security risks based on these profiles. The study utilizes energy consumption data from four diverse consumer profiles (consumers 1, 2, 3, and 4) to develop consumer-specific LSTM models for detection and an FIS model for confirmation. Tampered consumer data is identified and confirmed based on selected AMI parameters. While all consumers exhibit suspicious profiles at times, only consumers 2 and 3 are confirmed as engaging in electricity theft. This research provides a robust approach to detecting and verifying fraudulent consumption profiles within the context of AMI, offering a more reliable dimension to theft detection and confirmation.
Optimization of ticagrelor tablet for gastro-retentive drug delivery using full factorial design
Authors: Lee Yong Seong , Kang Jae Seon , Kim Kang Min , Pyo Jae Sung
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To identify the optimized region of formulation using quality by design for developing ticagrelor gastro-retentive (GR) tablets.

Methods: A 23 + 3 full factorial design of experiments study was used to identify three factors (polyethylene oxide (PEO), compression, and volume of granulating fluid) involved in the wet granulation and compression process of ticagrelor GR tablets. Hardness, friability, content, dosage unit uniformity, and pH 1.2 dissolution rate (at 4, 8, and 12 h) were evaluated as critical quality attributes via analysis of variance using Design Expert software.

Results: All seven models were significantly influenced based on analysis of variance results (p < 0.05). Hardness and friability were significantly affected by compression (p < 0.0001). Content uniformity was significantly affected by the interaction between compression and granulating water volume for wet granulation (p < 0.05), and dosage unit uniformity was significantly affected by the volume of granulating fluid for wet granulation (p < 0.05). However, all results were within acceptable ranges. Polyethylene oxide (PEO) (4 h, p < 0.05; 8 h, p < 0.05; 12 h, p < 0.05) and compression (4 h, p < 0.05; 8 h, p < 0.05; 12 h, p < 0.05) had negative effect on pH 1.2 dissolution rate.

Conclusion: Design of experiment (DoE) approach has been used to optimize region of PEO, compression, and volume of granulating fluid for formulation development. This outcome is expected to be a basis for further research to develop TCG GR tablets on a large production scale.
Anti-melanogenic effect of Amaranthus tricolorextract on UV radiation-exposed melanoma cells
Authors: Ngo Dai-Hung , Kim Young-Sang , Ngo Dai-Nghiep , Vo Thanh Sang
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To determine the inhibitory effect of A. tricolor extract (ATE) on melanogenesis in UV radiation-exposed B16F10 cells.

Methods: Total phenolic and anthocyanin contents of ATE were examined by Folin-Ciocalteu and pH differential methods, respectively. The tyrosinase inhibitory effect of ATE was investigated using L-DOPA as a substrate and the suppressive effect of ATE on melanin production was determined in melanoma cells. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH method and reactive oxygen species formation while protein expression levels were evaluated by western blot method.

Results: The total phenolic and anthocyanin contents were identified up to 35 mg/g extract and 0.85 mg/g extract, respectively. ATE was found to inhibit both mushroom and cellular tyrosinase at IC50 values of 242.2 ± 9.5 μg/mL and 202.9 ± 11.6 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, ATE treatment reduced melanin production up to (30 ± 5) % and suppressed p38 MAPK phosphorylation at the concentration of 400 μg/mL. In addition, ATE significantly scavenged DPPH radical with EC50 value of 189.2 ± 8.9 μg/mL and abolished ROS formation in the cells.

Conclusion: These results indicate that A. tricolor extract has a potential protective effect against melanin production, suggesting its potential value in skin-lightening formulations.
Effect of complex micronutrient supplement and vitamin D as adjunct to insulin therapy in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fu Fan , Yu Juan , Wang Lulu
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To determine the effect of complex micronutrient supplements and vitamin D as adjunct therapy on pancreatic function, oxidative stress, glucose metabolism and pregnancy outcomes in patients diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods: 100 GDM patients admitted to Hangzhou Linping District Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China between March 2022 and February 2023, were randomly allocated to control and study groups (50 patients each). Control group received insulin injections, whereas study group received complex micronutrients with vitamin D as supplements to insulin. Differences in terms of pancreatic function (homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), homeostatic model assessment-beta-cell function index (HOMA-β)), oxidative stress (total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA)), glucose metabolism indicators (fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hour postprandial glucose (2hPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c)) and pregnancy outcomes was assessed.

Results: After treatment, both groups showed reductions in serum levels of FBG, 2hPG and HbA1c, but study group exhibited a considerably greater decrease (p < 0.05). In addition, study group had lower HOMA-IR and MDA levels as well as higher HOMA-β and TAC levels (p < 0.05). Negative delivery outcomes occurred less frequently in study group than in control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Complex micronutrient supplements (rich in magnesium, calcium, and zinc) in combination with vitamin D as adjunct to insulin treatment effectively reduce pancreatic function and oxidative stress, significantly control blood glucose levels and lower the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in GDM patients. Further studies will be required in a larger more diverse population to determine the mechanism of enhancing pancreatic function.