bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral Human Papillomavirus Infection among Smokeless Tobacco-using Tribal Women in Mysuru, India
Authors: Ravi Kavitha , Kaur Tanvi , Khan Anisa S. , Pope Benjamin , Nguyen Kim Y. , Muralidhar Kiranmayee , Krupp Karl , Hernandez Brenda Y. , Angela Sy , Madhivanan Purnima , Nerurkar Vivek R.
Published: September 2023

Smokeless tobacco (SLT) is consumed by more than 300 million people worldwide. Studies show high use among Indian indigenous women who are also at high risk for oral cancers. Both human papillomavirus infection (HPV) and SLT have been associated with oral cancer, this study examined the presence of high-risk HPV in oral samples collected from tribal smokeless tobacco users in Mysuru, India. Between June and August 2019, 100 tribal females (50 SLT-users and 50 non-users) from rural Mysuru District, Karnataka, were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Following informed consent, demographic data and oral samples were collected and processed using a digene HC2 High-Risk HPV DNA test (Qiagen, USA). On average participants were 45.5 (SD: ±6.6) years. Chronic SLT users were mostly married (73%), Hindu (100%), illiterate (62%), and employed (90%). One woman was positive for high-risk HPV infection. Oral HPV infection was low in this sample and this is consistent with the literature from other low and middle-income countries. SLT use is high in this group so interventions to reduce tobacco use are warranted.
Ageing and Functional Disability: An Unbreakable Bond
Authors: Keshari Priya , Shankar Hari
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to assess the predominant predictors of functional disability in terms of involvement of activity of daily living (ADL) of urban geriatric subjects of Varanasi, India. This community-based cross-sectional study was undertaken on 616 urban geriatric subjects, selected through a multistage sampling procedure. The functional disability of subjects was assessed by using Barthel’s Index of ADL. Statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were done. Among all sociodemographic variables, age and marital status of subjects were significantly associated with their ADL status. In logistic regression, only age was a significant predictor of ADL involvement. Adjusted odds ratio for functional disability in the age group ≥80 years and 70–79 years were 19.82 [95% confidence interval (CI): 4.5–86.58] and 2.86 (95% CI: 1.91–4.28), respectively. Despite the several influencing factors, ageing and functional ability of geriatric subjects share an unbreakable bond.
Clinico-Epidemiological Profile and Short-Term Outcomes of Patients with Acute Poisoning Presenting to an Emergency of a Tertiary Care Center in Western Rajasthan
Authors: George Akhil V. , Sharma Ankur , Rodha Mahaveer S. , Choudhary Bharat , Bohra Gopal K. , Rohila Amit K. , Goel Akhil D.
Published: September 2023

Background:

This research aimed to evaluate the clinico-epidemiological profile and short-term outcomes of patients admitted to the emergency department of a tertiary hospital.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted between January 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, in the Emergency Department of a tertiary hospital. Patients of either gender of any age attending the emergency department with acute poisoning were included. These cases were analyzed for their epidemiological profiles, poisoning characteristics, and various clinical variables influencing patient outcomes.

Results:

Out of a total of 236 patients, 190 patients (80.5%) were aged more than 18 years. Comorbidities were present in 32 (13.5%) patients, and psychiatric illness was the most common comorbidity. The intention of poisoning was suicidal in 185 patients (78.4%) and accidental in 51 patients (21.6%). Organophosphate was the most common poisoning seen in 55 patients (23.3%), followed by drug ingestion seen in 44 patients (18.6%). Twenty-eight patients (11.8%) were transferred to the intensive care unit. Nineteen patients (8.1%) required mechanical ventilation. There were ten deaths (4.2%) in the study population. Aluminum phosphide poisoning was associated with the highest mortality rate, followed by organophosphate poisoning.

Conclusions:

This study indicates that most poisoning cases involved young people, mainly males. Organophosphorus poisoning was one of the most common poisonings, followed by the ingestion of drugs in this part of the world. Aluminum phosphide had the highest fatality rate.
Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry
Authors: Sarkar Siddharth , Singh Swarndeep
Published: September 2023

Consultation-liaison (CL) psychiatry is at the interface of psychiatry and other medical/surgical specialties and deals with providing clinical services or care to medically ill patients seen at the medical or surgical inpatient or outpatient departments. This review article aims to highlight the scope of CL psychiatry practice and the need for having effective CL psychiatry clinical services, with special emphasis on discussing how developing CL psychiatry services could help in overcoming existing barriers in the delivery of effective mental health care in the general hospital or primary health care settings. An electronic literature search was performed using the PubMed and Google Scholar search engines for selecting papers related to theme of CL psychiatry and effective mental health care or treatment. The CL psychiatry services improve the overall course and prognosis of both physical and mental health disorders in patients admitted under the medical or surgical hospital wards, with a reduction in length of stay, rehospitalization rates, and total health costs incurred to the medical systems. It can help in bridging the existing mental health treatment gap by overcoming existing barriers such as poor recognition of mental health problems, inadequate treatment, and high mental illness-related stigma.
Perceived Stress in Cancer Patients
Authors: Jan Firdousa , Singh Maharaj , Nisar Syed
Published: September 2023

Cancer is disease that many people fear and despise. Cancer is associated with significant psychological and social morbidity. As a result of the disease, cancer patients can experience physical, emotional, and social stress. One of the key factors linked to cancer initiation, development, and metastasis is perceived stress. The aim of this integrative analysis is to assess the literature on cancer patients' perceptions of stress, its relationship to cancer, and health problems associated with perceived stress in cancer patients. A search of Pub Med, CINAHL, Psycho Data, Springer science direct, and the descriptors level of perceived stress and cancer patients between 2000 and 2020 yielded 24 studies that met the review criteria. The following were the examination questions: (1) What is the relationship between perceived stress and cancer? (2) What health issues are associated with perceived stress in cancer patients? Findings support the prevalence of perceived stress in many cancer patients, as well as its connection to other health concerns. Patients' perceptions of stress are linked to cancer, and their general health is affected. It is critical for nurses to measure perceived stress, recognize stressors, and their effect on cancer patients' health and quality of life. Not only oncology nurses, but also all nurses, will benefit from a better understanding of how patients with various forms of cancer experience stress.
Prevalence of Selected Learning Disabilities among Primary Schoolchildren through Primary School Teachers
Authors: Goel Urvashi
Published: September 2023

Background:

The incidence of dyslexia in Indian primary schoolchildren has been reported to be 2%–18%, dysgraphia 14%, and dyscalculia 5.5%. India is thought to have approximately 90 million people with varying degrees of learning disabilities (LDs) and an average class in school has about five students with LDs. A recent news article in Times of India states that dyslexia is the most common LD with nearly 35 million children suffering from it.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of selected LDs among primary school children through primary school teachers.

Methodology:

Quantitative, exploratory research approach with survey design was used to assess the prevalence of selected LDs among primary schoolchildren through 100 primary school teachers as samples in selected primary schools students of Delhi using sociodemographic datasheet and structured questionnaire tool.

Results:

Evaluation of the questionnaire from 100 teachers identified that 784 (26%) students were at risk of developing LDs among 2934 children. The study shows that out of 784 primary schoolchildren identified at risk, 54.9% were identified having dyslexia, while 23.9% were identified having dysgraphia, and 21.1% were identified having dyscalculia.

Conclusion:

It is concluded that 26% of the primary school students are at risk of developing selected LDs. Teachers whose class students were found to be at risk of developing LDs were asked to see further medical help.
Well-being and Pregnancy
Authors: Talukdar Pallavi , Baruah Arunjyoti
Published: September 2023

Well-being is a complex construct on the optimal functioning in one's life. Well-being is basically having two perspectives: hedonic approach (i.e., pain avoidance and pleasure attainment) and eudaimonic approach (i.e., living up to one's fullest potential). Over the years, researchers have explored various stages of one's life based on these approaches. Pregnancy is an important milestone of women's life. Pregnancy is a period of hope and growth. This concept paper has been drafted with the aim of having an understanding regarding well-being and its short-term as well as long-term impact on pregnant women and their unborn children. The objectives of the study were to get an overview on well-being and to understand its effect on pregnant women as well as their fetuses. The electronic literature search engines used were Google Scholar and PubMed for selecting papers related to the theme well-being and pregnancy. Again, these selected articles were further screened for more relevant literature. For the present paper, a total of 35 articles were reviewed which were published online. Assessment of well-being during pregnancy helps in the assurance of better future for both the mother and the child. In this paper, the researcher has looked into a comprehensive view of well-being, and this has an influence on the pregnant women. This understanding will help in the promotion of well-being and maternal health, which in turn will have a positive effect on the baby.
Attitude of Nursing Students toward People Living with Mental Disorder
Authors: Gyaltshen Kinley , Gyeltshen Dawa , Dorji Nima , Kuenzang Kuenzang , Gyeltshen Nguldup
Published: September 2023

Background:

Stigma held by health-care professionals toward people with mental illness can have serious negative impact on the quality of care provided by them. It is essential to adequately train the nursing students to develop favorable attitudes toward mental illness. In Bhutan, the level of stigma among student nurses remains understudied.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to investigate the attitudes of student nurses toward people with mental illness.

Methods:

It was a cross-sectional survey. A total population sampling technique was used. Two hundred and thirty-six student nurses completed a 40-item Community Attitudes toward Mentally Ill (CAMI) questionnaire to determine whether people with mental illness were viewed as “inferior;” deserving “sympathy;” perceived as a “threat” to the society or “acceptable” in the community. Independent t-tests and the analysis of variance were performed to determine the association of categorical variables with the CAMI.

Results:

Nursing students had favorable attitudes toward people with mental illness. The mean scores for the authoritarian (27.56 ± 3.95), benevolence (39.33 ± 3.71), social restrictiveness (21.51 ± 4.54), and community mental health ideology (37.29 ± 4.85) subscales reflected a positive attitude of student nurses. There was significant difference (F = 4.79, P < 0.01) only in the dimension of authoritarianism when CAMI subscales were compared according to the level (year) of the course.

Conclusion:

The study confirmed positive attitudes of student nurses toward people with mental illness. However, no significant difference in attitudes of student nurses according their level (year) of study underscores the need for revisiting current psychiatric curriculum and calls for further studies in the area.
Ensuring Safety from COVID-19 in Arthroscopic Surgery
Authors: Arya R. K. , Topgia Chhewang , Joshi Deepak , Kumar Jaswant , Goyal Ankit , Lal Hitesh , Sinha Skand
Published: September 2023

In the current time of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, orthopedic procedures have been shelved and guidelines to establish the safety of medical professionals and patients are still evolving. Although sports injuries are not life threatening, a spectrum of these injuries requires urgent intervention. To ensure the safety of medical professionals and patients of sports injuries in COVID times, the following guidelines are suggested. Such surgery needs to be performed only in COVID-free facility (green zone). Patients from red zone and containment zone should be avoided. Young, fit individuals without medical comorbidities should be considered. Wherever possible, regional anesthesia should be used. As COVID virus is present in all body fluids, aerosol generation (coughing, sneezing, intubation, use of power instruments, and cautery) should be minimized. Operation theater (OT) should be fumigated on the prior night and ideally between the cases. The number of cases per OT should be kept under three to get adequate time in-between for sterilization. The ventilation setup of OT should be negative pressure in addition to positive pressure. If there are hindrances in setting up negative pressure, a simple exhaust can be added to the existing setup. The ventilation system should ideally provide more than 20 air changes per hour. During surgery, movement of doors of OT and OT personnel should be minimal so as to minimize the air turbulence and eddy current. This will reduce the risk of infection. Surgical team should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and helmet hood to reduce the chances of respiratory droplet infection. The doffing of helmet and PPE should be done with utmost care and should be discarded in a chloro-derivate solution. The motorized drill used for surgical procedure should be used at low revolution per minute (RPM). Usage of sterile transparent polythene hood while irrigating during drilling and sequential drilling will help in minimizing aerosol generation. Spillage of arthroscopic fluid should be avoided at all times. These basic norms will minimize the chance of accidental spread of COVID.
Exploring internship nursing students' experiences regarding the effect of supervision model implementation on medication safety: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Shahzeydi Amir , Farzi Sedigheh , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Babaei Sima
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Medication safety is one of the main aspects of safe care in the nursing profession, which leads to increasing patient safety and preventing medication errors. Clinical supervision is an integral part of nursing education that leads to the professional and social development of nursing students. This study was designed with the aim of revealing the experiences of nursing internship students from the implementation of the clinical supervision model on medication safety.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This descriptive qualitative study was done in 2022. The participants were selected from nursing internship students (Last year undergraduate) of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran. Participants in this study were 15 nursing internship students selected using a purposeful sampling method. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The qualitative content analysis approach was used for data analysis.

RESULTS:

After analyzing the data, four categories, “promotion medication safety competence and knowledge,” “development trust and respect climate,” “outcome of feedback,” and “role of clinical supervisor,” and 10 subcategories were extracted from the participants' experiences.

CONCLUSION:

The implementation of the clinical supervision model led to an increase in the competence of nursing internship students in medication safety. The students believed that this educational method made them follow the principles of medication safety administration. The feedback provided in the clinical supervision sessions made students think about their clinical activities, understand the reason for their mistakes, and use the reliable nursing resources introduced by the supervisor to improve their performance.
Reviving medical education through teachers training programs: A literature review
Authors: Vagha Sunita , Mishra Vedprakash , Joshi Yatishkumar
Published: September 2023

The art of teaching in undergraduate and post graduate medical curriculum was revised in last century with targeted programs to equip the medical faculty with advanced teaching technologies. Medical education units (MEUs) were established by the medical council to train the existing medical faculty of the country in teaching methodologies. This study aimed to evaluate the MEU's impact on teachers' training and compare the status of trained teachers before and after the MEU era. Published literature and statistics on the MCI website were compiled to compare teachers' training status over time empirically. MEU, R.C., and N.C. have been highly efficient in improving the proportion of teachers trained from 5.38 to 50.32% across the country, especially after the upgradation of MEU in 2009. Proportion of the teachers trained increased from 5.38% to 50.32% due to the programs organized by various MEU, regional and nodal centres, especially after the upgradation of MEU in 2009. Lack of trained resource persons and administrative support were the common challenges faced. Properly organized MEU and planned activities should be emphasized in every institute. for effective development of the faculties.
Correlation between health status and academic achievement among elementary school students in North Jakarta
Authors: Kurniawan Felicia , Wiraharja Regina Satya , Santi Bryany Titi , Astiarani Yunisa , Kristian Kevin , Amita Angela Shinta Dewi , Bororing Sheela Rima , Wijaya Lorettha , Regina  , Sahusilawane Isadora Gracia , Yue Ricky , Setiawan Andy , Wijaya Ellen
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

High-performing students are essential investments in building the nation's future. In Indonesia, however, the correlation between students' health and academic achievement is rarely examined. This study aimed to evaluate primary school students' health status and its relation to their academic achievement.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

A survey was conducted on 1335 students from four primary schools in North Jakarta. Health assessments included nutritional status, hair, skin condition, dental, vision, and ear conditions. Parents filled sociodemographic questionnaire. Mid-exam scores in core subjects determined academic achievement. Data were analyzed using binomial logistic regression to determine the relation of health status with students' academic achievement.

RESULTS:

In the younger group, students who were stunted (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.23, 95% CI: 1.11-4.50), had dental caries (AOR 2.16, 95% CI: 1.15-4.04), hair problems (AOR 2.04, 95% CI: 1.15-3.59), and skin problems (AOR 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01-2.20) were more likely to have a low-performing index. In the older group, students with hair problems tend to have a low-performing index (AOR 3.05, 95% CI: 1.88-5.89). Meanwhile, the students who wore eye glasses were more likely to achieve a high-performing index in the older group (AOR 0.60, 95% CI: 0.50-0.78).

CONCLUSION:

This study shows a significant correlation between students' health status and academic achievement, where students with health problems were more likely to have lower grades compared to their counterparts. Regular health screening and examination are vital to maintaining students' health; therefore, their academic achievement can be increased.
Investigating the predictability of social support and self-esteem on the resilience of students with chronic illness in the family
Authors: Najafi Aref , Ebrahimi Belil Fatemeh
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Since living with a person with a chronic illness in the family can affect the mental state of students, it is necessary to help students by determining and increasing predictors of resilience, followed by increasing their resilience and self-esteem. It protects them from experiencing physical, mental, and educational problems. Aim of this study was determining of predictive level of social support and self-esteem with resilience in students of University of Medical Sciences.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional, descriptive, analytic study was conducted in 2019 on 220 students of University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran. The statistical population included 3500 students. Purposeful sampling was performed on students who were studying and had a chronic patient in the family. Demographic, social support, resilience, and self-esteem questionnaires were used to collect data. To analyze the results, the mean, standard deviation, Pearson's correlation test, Kolmogorov–Smirnov test, and linear regression test were used.

RESULTS:

Students had a high mean social support, resilience, and self-esteem. The results showed that the correlation coefficient between resilience and social support was 0.411, and also, the correlation between resilience and self-esteem was 0.396. The results showed that self-esteem had a greater positive effect on resilience than perceived social support.

CONCLUSION:

The present study concluded that the variables of social support and self-esteem had a direct relationship with students' resilience. Based on this, steps can be taken to strengthen and improve students' resilience by improving the perceived support and self-esteem of students.
Vitagnus an estrogen-riched herbal remedy used in sexual dysfunction: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zohreh Abbasi , Robabeh Amini , Peiman Alesheikh , Hamid Nabavi Seyed , Zakiyeh Amini
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in the postmenopausal period. Vitagnus is a phytoesterogen containing herb, which can bind to estrogen receptors and modulate their function. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of oral vitagnus solution on sexual dysfunction improvement among postmenopausal women in North Khorasan Province, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study was a double-blind clinical trial on 60 retired female teachers who visited the retirement center of North Khorasan Province from December 2019 until January 2021. Sampling was done in a convenience sampling. Allocation of intervention and placebo groups was done randomly by marking as A and B codes, respectively. Eligible married women aged 50–70 years had received 40 drops of vitagnus or placebo daily for 8 weeks. Female Sexual Function Index was filled on the first day, fourth, sixth, and eighth week after the intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS V.23 and independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U, Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and repeated measure ANOVA were used for analyzing descriptive and inferential data. P < 0.05 was considered as a statistically significant threshold.

RESULTS:

Data from Bonferroni post hoc test indicated that the mean total sexual function did not differ between the two groups before and at the end of the fourth week of intervention, but scores of total sexual function showed a significant difference at the end of the sixth (P = 0/003) and eighth week (P = 0/001) of intervention.

CONCLUSION:

Vitagnus drops, as a simple, cheap, and available herbal supplement, could affect the sexual function of women aged 50–70 and improve it.
The effect of the supportive care program based on Bandura's self-efficacy on stress and participation of the mothers of the neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Heidary Shima , Heidari Haydeh , Choopani Roya , Sedehi Morteza
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND:

Maternal stress can affect both the neonate and the mother and deter them from participating in the care of preterm neonates. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of the supportive care program (SCP) based on Bandura's self-efficacy on stress and participation of mothers of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This quasi-experimental study was performed in 2020 on 90 mothers of premature infants admitted to the NICU of Hajar Hospital in Shahrekord, Iran. First, the control group and then the experimental group were selected and a training package based on Bandura's self-efficacy theory was implemented for the intervention group. The research instruments in this study were the Heidari mothers stress questionnaire and Melnyk mother's participation questionnaire which was completed before and after the intervention. The analysis was performed based on SPSS (version 24) and Chi-square, independent t-test, and paired tests.

RESULTS:

The results indicated that the demographic variables of mothers and neonatal characteristics of the two groups did not have significant differences except for the history of abortion and infertility in mothers and the weight of preterm neonates (P < 0.05). Mothers in the experimental group had less stress (t (88) = 29.50, P < 0.001) and more participation than the control group (t (88) = −27.18, P < 0.001) after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS:

Using self-efficacy-based SCP for maternal education besides routine education could positively affect the reduction of stress and the increase of maternal participation in caring for preterm neonates during hospitalization. Thus, using this supportive program is suggested for mothers with preterm neonates admitted to NICU.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Level of Phosphorylated Neurofilament Heavy Chain is Higher in Converting Clinically Isolated Syndrome and Correlates with CAMP Response Element-Binding Protein Concentration
Authors: Gencer Mehmet , Koral Gizem , Sanli Elif , Cirak Selen , Akbayir Ece , Yuceer Hande , Kizilay Tugce , Yildiz Ruziye Erol , Yentur Sibel Penbe , Yilmaz Vuslat , Tuzun Erdem , Turkoglu Recai
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Prevision of conversion from clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) to multiple sclerosis (MS) is required to avoid unnecessary use of immunomodulating agents and to recognize patients with high disease activity. Our aim was to evaluate the value of phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (pNFH, a marker for neuroaxonal degeneration) and Cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding protein (cAMP response element-binding protein [CREB], a marker for neuroregeneration) levels in the prediction of conversion from CIS to MS.

Methods:

Twenty-three consecutively recruited treatment-naïve CIS patients were followed for 36 months. pNFH and CREB levels were measured in the first episode cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and the serum of 12 converting (CIS-MS) and 11 nonconverting CIS patients (CIS-CIS) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

Baseline CSF but not serum samples of CIS-CIS patients displayed significantly lower pNFH levels compared to patients with CIS-MS. The analysis of receiver operating characteristic curve presented a high specificity for the prediction of MS conversion for the CSF pNFH cut-off level of 730.9 pg/ml. CSF pNFH levels significantly correlated with serum and CSF CREB levels. Higher baseline CSF pNFH and CREB levels were associated with more rapid progression to MS or increased disability scores.

Conclusion:

CSF pNFH measurement may potentially determine MS patients with unfavorable clinical progression after the first attack. pNFH and CREB appear to be increased in parallel in CSF of CIS patients with higher disease activity. These results suggest that neurofilaments are not only indicators of axonal degeneration but also partly a marker of neuronal differentiation and new axon regeneration mediated by CREB signaling pathway.
The Effect of Cold on the Trigeminal Reflexes
Authors: Inan Rahsan , Erdemir-Kızıltan Meral
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Effects of muscle cooling on the spinal stretch and monosynaptic reflexes have been studied to describe the properties of Group I and II afferents of muscle spindles. Masseter muscle differs from extremity muscles in structural and numerical features of the muscle spindles. The aim of this study was to examine the muscle spindle afferent features of masseter muscle by applying cold to understand the role of Group I and II afferents in reflexes of masseter.

Patients and Methods:

We included 12 healthy subjects (7 females and 5 males) in the study. Masseter inhibitory reflex (MIR), jaw tendon reflex (JTR), trigeminal motor evoked potential (MEP), and trigeminal somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) were studied before and after cold application. Left masseter muscle was cooled down to 18°C. We compared the data obtained before and after cold application.

Results:

After cold application, the mean total duration of MIR was shortened and it was absent in four subjects. The mean amplitude of JTR was higher after cold application (P = 0.018) without any significant change in latency. The mean latency of MEP was delayed without any change in amplitude (P = 0.003). There was no significant difference in SEPs.

Conclusions:

Changes observed in MIR, JTR, and MEP could not be ascribed to any specific type of muscle spindle afferents. Delayed mean reflex latencies were attributed to the effect of cold on nerve conduction. Summation of peripheral cold and pain receptor features, spindle afferents, and cortical mechanisms might have caused cold-associated changes.
Restraint stress-associated gastrointestinal injury and implications from the Evans blue-fed restraint stress mouse model
Authors: Sun Der-Shan , Lien Te-Sheng , Chang Hsin-Hou
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

The association between stress and gastrointestinal (GI) tract diseases is well established, while the exact mechanism remains elusive. As a result, it is urgent to establish mouse models to investigate restraint stress-associated GI leakage, but current models have their limitations. A new Evans blue-fed restraint mouse model has recently been developed that allows researchers to study restraint stress-associated GI leakage in live animals. This review article will focus on this model, including its mechanisms, clinical implications, and applications for studying restraint stress-associated GI injury. Recent findings from studies using this model will also be highlighted, along with their potential for diagnosis and treatment. The article aims to discuss about current research and provide recommendations for further study, ultimately improving our understanding of the link between stress and GI injury and improving patient outcomes.
Detection of Post COVID-Pneumonia Using Histogram Equalization, CLAHE Deep Learning Techniques
Authors: M Vinodhini , Rajkumar Sujatha , Kalyan Reddy Mure Vamsi , Janesh Vaishnav
Published: September 2023

Pneumonia, also known as bronchitis, is caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Pneumonia can be fatal to an infected person because the lungs cannot exchange air. The disease primarily affects infants and people over the age of 65. Every year, nearly 4 million people are killed by the disease, which affects an estimated 420 million people. It is critical to detect and diagnose this condition as soon as possible. Diagnosing the condition using the patient's x-ray is the most effective method. Experienced radiologists will use a chest x-ray of the affected patient to make this informed decision. Recently, coronavirus is a contagious viral disease caused by the SARSCoV2 virus. This virus affects the human respiratory system. The virus also causes pneumonia (COVID pneumonia), which is far more dangerous than normal pneumonia. The main purpose of this task is to study and compare several deep learning enhancement techniques applied to medical x-ray and CT scan images for the detection of COVID19 (pneumonia).

A convolutional neural network (CNN) is used to design a model that can distinguish between COVID19 pneumonia and normal pneumonia. In addition, image enhancement techniques (histogram equalization (HE), contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE)) have been processed against the dataset to find more efficient methods and models for detecting pneumonia. A dataset of 6432 CXRs were used - 576 COVID pneumonia CXRs, 1583 normal pneumonia CXRs, and 4273 healthy lung CXRs. Based on the results, it was observed that the equalized histogram and the equalized dataset of CLAHE run faster than the original dataset. This requires a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system that can distinguish between COVID pneumonia, normal pneumonia, and healthy lungs. In addition, the improved VGG16 achieved 96% accuracy in the detection of X-ray images of COVID19 - pneumonia.
Ricci flow of $W^{2,2}$-metrics in four dimensions
Authors: Lamm Tobias , Simon Miles
Published: September 2023

In this paper we construct solutions to Ricci–DeTurck flow in four dimensions on closed manifolds which are instantaneously smooth but whose initial values

g

are (possibly) non-smooth Riemannian metrics whose components in smooth coordinates belong to

W^{2,2}

and satisfy

\frac{1}{a}h\leq g\leq a h

for some

1<a<\infty

and some smooth Riemann\-ian metric

h

on

M

. A Ricci flow related solution is constructed whose initial value is isometric in a weak sense to the initial value of the Ricci–DeTurck solution. Results for a related non-compact setting are also presented. Various

L^p

-estimates for Ricci flow, which we require for some of the main results, are also derived. As an application we present a possible definition of scalar curvature

\geq k

for

W^{2,2}

-metrics

g

on closed four manifolds which are bounded in the

L^{\infty}

-sense by

\frac{1}{a}h\leq g\leq a h

for some

1<a<\infty

and some smooth Riemannian metric

h

on

M

.
Corrigendum and addendum to Appendix A of “Fractal geometry of the complement of Lagrange spectrum in Markov spectrum”
Authors: Jeffreys Luke , Matheus Carlos , Moreira Carlos Gustavo , Rieutord Clément
Published: September 2023

This erratum corrects the statement and proof of Corollary A.4 of [Comment. Math. Helv. 95, 593–633 (2020)].
Keller and Lieb–Thirring estimates of the eigenvalues in the gap of Dirac operators
Authors: Dolbeault Jean , Gontier David , Pizzichillo Fabio , Van Den Bosch Hanne
Published: September 2023

We estimate the lowest eigenvalue in the gap of the essential spectrum of a Dirac operator with mass in terms of a Lebesgue norm of the potential. Such a bound is the counterpart for Dirac operators of the Keller estimates for the Schrödinger operator, which are equivalent to some Gagliardo–Nirenberg–Sobolev interpolation inequalities. Domain, self-adjointness, optimality and critical values of the norms are addressed, while the optimal potential is given by a Dirac equation with a Kerr nonlinearity. A new critical bound appears, which is the smallest value of the norm of the potential for which eigenvalues may reach the bottom of the gap in the essential spectrum. The Keller estimate is then extended to a Lieb–Thirring inequality for the eigenvalues in the gap. Most of our result are established in the Birman–Schwinger reformulation.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure Analysis of Potato Somaclones
Authors: Widaningsih Nina Agusti , Roostika Ika , Utami Dwinita Wikan , Maharijaya Awang , Kusmana  , Jenudin Usep , Sobir
Published: September 2023

Cultivated potato varieties are tetraploid and vegetatively propagated. Therefore genetic improvement for new traits is less effective through hybridization. The mutation is considered an alternative method for crop improvement of those varieties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of gamma-ray irradiation on increasing genetic diversity among the somaclones and the changes in population structure. Forty-four somaclones were used as observed materials. The population was grown in a screen house using a completely randomized design with genotype (somaclone) as a single factor. Thirteen qualitatively and quantitatively morphological characters were observed. Six SSR markers were used for analyzing the population structure. The selection process was based on a weighting method divided into quartiles. Selected numbers were taken from quartile 3. Morphological analysis of stems and leaves resulted in five different somaclones, with significant differences in anthocyanin appearance and intensity of the green color of the leaflets. Diversity criteria based on quantitative characteristics showed a high level of diversity with a high heritability for tuber weight, length, and diameter and a moderate heritability for tuber number. Analyzing the population structure has offered insight into how gamma irradiation affected the somaclones. As a result of the selection, 12 somaclones met the requirements to serve as seed sources for field testing. It is expected that the results of this study will provide information about the diversity caused by gamma-ray irradiation treatment on potato somaclones and a method for improving the efficiency of the initial selection of potato populations.
Spermicide of Papaya Seed Oil and Compounds
Authors: Sukadana I Made , Santi Sri Rahayu , Oktaviani Ni Putu Lisna
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to determine the spermicidal activity of papaya seed oil (Carica papaya L) from local Bali varieties against Wistar rat spermatozoa by evaluating sperm quality and the correlation between the percentage of motility and viability spermatozoa to identify its active compounds. Papaya seed oil was obtained by extracting papaya seeds using n-hexane solvent. The study was designed as follows; group of spermatozoa Wistar rat were treated with NaCl 0.9% (control, P0), with Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose (NaCMC) 0.5% (P1), with n-hexane extract 0.1%(b/v) (P2), with n-hexane extract 0.3%(b/v) (P3), and with n-hexane extract 0.5%(b/v) (P4). Column chromatography was used to separate the n-hexane extract into two fractions, A and B. The spermicide test for fractions A and B followed the same design as the test for n-hexane extract but until the P7 group. The result showed that fraction B exhibited higher spermicidal activity, with 23.3% motility and 33.8% of viability sperm at 100 ppm. The identification of fraction B by LCMS showed at least 12 mixture compounds were venoterpine, vitamin K5, 5-phenyl-2-pyridinamine, harmalan, styrylquinoline, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-benzoyl-2-methyl-4-phenylamino-quinoline, calcitroic acid, siderol, N-benzyl-linoleamide, (3β)-3-(diisopropylamino)androst-5-en-17-one, pipereicosalidine, and 25-azacholesterol. Spermicidal activity may be a synergistic effect of several compounds that have a cytotoxic activity such as styrylquinoline, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-benzoyl-2-methyl-4-phenylamino-quinoline, siderol, and pipereicosalidine.
Bacteriocinogenic Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Mangrove Sediment in Indonesia: Growth Optimization, Bacteriocin Production, and its Application in Food Preservation
Authors: Kusharyati Dyah Fitri , Oedjijono  , Satwika Taruna Dwi , Yulianti Dwiana Muflihah , Mariana Afifah , Rovik Anwar
Published: September 2023

The mangrove ecosystem is unique because it is located between marine and land. Little research is exploring lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from mangrove ecosystems. The LAB LG71 isolate is successfully isolated from the sediment of mangrove ecosystems on the coast of Logending, Jawa Tengah (Indonesia). In this study, we aimed to know the effect of glucose supplementation on the growth of LG71 isolate, bacteriocin production, and its application in food preservation. The characterization results showed that the LG71 isolate is Lactobacillus sp. Interestingly, the LG71 isolate is catalase-positive since this character is rarely found in the LAB group. Supplementing 0.25% glucose to MRSB medium and an incubation time of 15 hours is the best treatment for producing Lactobacillus LG71 isolate cell biomass. A 2% concentration of crude extract of Lactobacillus LG71 bacteriocins is the best concentration against Salmonella typhi both during in vitro and in vivo tests in fish balls. The addition of glucose affects the production of Lactobacillus LG71 cell biomass, and the bacteriocin derived from Lactobacillus LG71 gives increased protection against S. typhi and offers an alternative for food preservation.
The Benthic Foraminiferal Assemblages in the Seagrass Bed of Tanjung Berakit Waters, Bintan Island
Authors: M. Natsir Suhartati , Dillenia Ira
Published: September 2023

Seagrass is the most common ecosystem in Tanjung Berakit waters. Therefore, Tanjung Berakit waters have a very important role as a benthic foraminiferal habitat. This study was conducted to describe the distribution of benthic foraminifera relating to the environmental condition of the waters. The samples were collected from eight stations by handling garb in November 2017. This study collected 18 species of shallow water benthic foraminifera dominated by Amphistegina and Heterostegina. This study recorded a correlation between the sediment texture and foraminiferal assemblages. The most common foraminifera were inhabiting fine-textured sediments, especially very fine sand and silt. Only a few foraminifers are collected from extremely fine sediments such as clay sediments, or extremely coarse including pebbles.
α-Mangostin Effectively Inhibits Chikungunya Virus Replication in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Soraya Moudy , Sievers Justus , Denis Dionisius , Bowolaksono Anom , Sasmono R. Tedjo
Published: September 2023

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an arthropod-transmitted Alphavirus endemic to countries in Africa and Asia, including Indonesia, which causes debilitating arthralgia which can last several years. The rapid spread of CHIKV to new areas makes the discovery of antiviral agents a high priority. α-mangostin is a xanthone from mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) pericarp and has antiviral activity against Hepatitis C and Dengue viruses. We investigated the antiviral activity of α-mangostin against CHIKV in HepG2 cells in pre-, post- and combination treatments compared to the common antiviral medicine ribavirin, as well their cytotoxicity. Our results show dose-responsive reductions in viral titer in all treatment regimes, with post- and combination treatments being more effective than pre-treatment only (IC50 = 7.79, 5.99 and 6.39 µM, respectively), but with poor specificity (SI = 1.39, 1.81 and 1.70, respectively) compared to ribavirin. Neither compound showed a direct virucidal effect. These results suggest α-mangostin effectively inhibits CHIKV replication in this cell line.
Experimental investigation of emission parameters of diesel engine fueled with various plastic pyrolysis oils
Authors: Modi Maulik A. , Patel Tushar M.
Published: September 2023

Plastic has various advantages and is becoming more ubiquitous by the year, yet recycling and disposal remain challenges for the world. We conduct tests in this study to evaluate the appropriateness of various Plastic Pyrolysis Oils (PPOs) made from Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Polypropylene (PP) for diesel engine fuel. Determine which type of plastic pyrolysis oil would function best as an alternative fuel in an experimental investigation. The elemental composition of pyrolysis oil generated from LDPE, HDPE, and PP to diesel was assessed, tabulated, and compared in this study. This study examines emission characteristics (Nitrogen Oxide (NOX), Hydro Carbon (HC), and Carbon Monoxide (CO)) for Diesel, LDPE, HDPE and PP in CI engines using different injection pressure, compression ratio, and load in a specific configuration. In the result of experimental work the CO emission range for diesel and LDPE is exceeded only during overload situations or when the engine load is 100%. The average NOX emission is lowest when PP is used in comparison to other fuels, and the highest NOX emission occurs when LDPE is utilised as a fuel. Increased fumigation rates may be to blame for the rising hydrocarbon content of plastic oil. Unburned hydrocarbon levels are lower at lighter loads due to increased oxygen availability. The use of this whole pyrolysis oil results in a significant decrease in Nitrogen Oxide (NOX), Hydro Carbon (HC), and Carbon Monoxide (CO) exhaust emissions. With the help of this current study. one can solve plastic waste disposal problem and also find any unknown fuel (PPOs) that can be used as an alternative fuel for CI engine or not.
Quality of drinking water used by communities in selected villages from Iringa rural, Kongwa and Mufindi districts, Tanzania
Authors: Katonge Jackson H. , Makupa Enock E.
Published: September 2023

Drinking water quality was assessed in selected villages from Kongwa, Mufindi and Iringa rural districts between March and August 2020. Ten villages from three districts were involved in the study: Kongwa (4 villages), Iringa rural (3 villages), and Mufindi (3 villages). Methods used in data gathering were observation, in-situ, and ex-situ measurement of water parameters. A total of 150 samples were collected from different water sources (a bore hole, a well, a spring, and a river) and analyzed using standard methods. Results show that the minimum and maximum values of dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, calcium, magnesium, fluoride, nitrate, and hardness were 3.35-9.62, 0.52-1.93, 4.40-8.28, 13.0-2000 mg/L, 0.47–31.6 NTU, 0.41-1.32 mg/L, 0.25-1.35 mg/L, 0.02-1.02 mg/L, 1.30-167 mg/L, and 0.68-216 mg/L, respectively. TDS (2000 mg/L) and nitrate (167 mg/L) were significantly higher than WHO guideline values in some villages from different sources. Further results indicated that 3 out of 17 sampling sites had Escherichia coli, indicating fecal contamination. Higher levels of physical-chemical parameters and microbial contamination observed are of health concern and call for mitigation measures. The study recommends regular water testing, monitoring its quality, treating source points, and providing education to communities surrounding the water sources.
Analysis of the profitability of poultry egg production in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Inyang H. B. , Esheya S. E. , Udoh M. I.
Published: September 2023

The study analyses the profitability of poultry egg production in Etim Ekpo Local Area of Akwa Ibom State. Primary data were collected from 75 poultry egg producers selected through a multi-stage sampling technique, using a structured questionnaire. Percentage, frequency and budgetary analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that majority of poultry egg producers were male representing about 71% of the poultry egg producers, and the mean age was 41 years. The study revealed that, the poultry egg producers in the study area had one form of education or the other which significantly contributed to increase in poultry egg production in the study area.About 83% of the poultry egg producers were married, while the average household size was 4 persons per family. Only 27% of the poultry egg producers accepted that, they belong to Cooperative Society and about 69% had an average income that stood at ₦70,800 per month. With respect to the profitability of poultry egg production, the result indicated that for every ₦1 invested in the poultry egg production business, there is a return of ₦2. The result from budgetary analysis revealed that there is a significant relationship between input and output in poultry eggs production business; more so poultry egg production is a profitable investment. The following recommendations were made: reduction in input cost through subsidy on poultry equipment and credit facilities, and better management practices and encouragement of farm records keeping for profit evaluation.