bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence in respiratory care: Current scenario and future perspective
Authors: Al-Anazi Saad , Al-Omari Awad , Alanazi Safug , Marar Aqeelah , Asad Mohammed , Alawaji Fadi , Alwateid Salman
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

This narrative review aims to explore the current state and future perspective of artificial intelligence (AI) in respiratory care. The objective is to provide insights into the potential impact of AI in this field.

METHODS:

A comprehensive analysis of relevant literature and research studies was conducted to examine the applications of AI in respiratory care and identify areas of advancement. The analysis included studies on remote monitoring, early detection, smart ventilation systems, and collaborative decision-making.

RESULTS:

The obtained results highlight the transformative potential of AI in respiratory care. AI algorithms have shown promising capabilities in enabling tailored treatment plans based on patient-specific data. Remote monitoring using AI-powered devices allows for real-time feedback to health-care providers, enhancing patient care. AI algorithms have also demonstrated the ability to detect respiratory conditions at an early stage, leading to timely interventions and improved outcomes. Moreover, AI can optimize mechanical ventilation through continuous monitoring, enhancing patient comfort and reducing complications. Collaborative AI systems have the potential to augment the expertise of health-care professionals, leading to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment strategies.

CONCLUSION:

By improving diagnosis, AI has the potential to revolutionize respiratory care, treatment planning, and patient monitoring. While challenges and ethical considerations remain, the transformative impact of AI in this domain cannot be overstated. By leveraging the advancements and insights from this narrative review, health-care professionals and researchers can continue to harness the power of AI to improve patient outcomes and enhance respiratory care practices.

IMPROVEMENTS:

Based on the findings, future research should focus on refining AI algorithms to enhance their accuracy, reliability, and interpretability. In addition, attention should be given to addressing ethical considerations, ensuring data privacy, and establishing regulatory frameworks to govern the responsible implementation of AI in respiratory care.
How Did I Manage a Case of Pulseless Electrical Activity During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in a Patient with Severe Aortic Valve Stenosis with Left Ventricular Dysfunction?
Authors: Mohanty Abhisekh
Published: February 2024

Cardiac arrest during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is rare but is generally associated with dramatic consequences including mortality and severe neurological damage. Our patient is an 89-year-old male with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis and left ventricular dysfunction. He had a prolonged cardiac arrest in the form of pulseless electrical activity (PEA) during TAVI. After ruling out cardiac tamponade and bleeding, we decided to do the TAVI while doing cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The hemodynamics of the patient improved immediately after TAVI and we could avoid the use of a mechanical circulatory support. We have also discussed in detail the cause, diagnosis, and management of PEA during TAVI.
A Cross-sectional Study on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice regarding the use of Iron–Folic Acid Supplementation amongst Antenatal Women of Surendranagar District
Authors: Goswami Mital , Dadwani Roma , Koringa Hetal , Vekariya Dhruvil , Solanki Nikita
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

As per the National Family Health Survey-5, the prevalence of anaemia amongst pregnant women is 52.2% in India. Iron deficiency anaemia has a negative impact on maternal and child’s health in terms of morbidity as well as mortality. Iron–folic acid (IFA) supplementation is the recommended strategy to prevent its deficiency during pregnancy. Hence, knowledge regarding the use of IFA supplementation has a positive impact on its compliance.

Objectives:

The aim is to assess knowledge and attitude and to determine practice regarding the use of IFAS amongst antenatal women of Surendranagar district.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Surendranagar district. The sample size was 260, which was calculated based on the pregnancy registration rate. To achieve this sample size, 26 subcentres were selected randomly. Data were collected using predesigned, pretested and semi-structured questionnaires.

Results:

Out of the total study participants, more than half were between the age group of 22–24 years (57.7%) and the mean age was 26.94 ± 5.15. Almost all were aware of IFA supplementation (96.2%), and nearly three-fourths (75.5%) were taking it. Of pregnant women who were taking IFA tablets amongst them 88.2% were taking it regularly. They were aware that lemon increases its absorption (61%), but it should not be taken immediately after a meal (62%). Majority of women felt that it helps to improve their health during pregnancy and improve their child’s health (90%).

Conclusion:

Majority of women amongst study participants were aware of IFA supplementation and taking it regularly. However, knowledge regarding its absorption was observed to be low amongst them.
Time to Rename Non-Communicable Disease as a Socio-Communicable Disease?
Authors: Salve Harshal Ramesh , Mandal Suprakash
Published: February 2024

In the context of rising non-communicable disease and its risk factors, the socio-behavioural role has become important. The nomenclature of the group of these diseases might not be sufficient to influence the socio-behavioural, cultural, economic section to have a long-term change in the burden. The management policy and strategy largely remained at individual level focussing on the disease course and its complication. The purpose of this commentary was an attempt to propose the renaming of ‘non-communicable’ disease group with a vision to increase the emphasis at individual, society and policy levels. There are already several proposals arised such as ‘socially transmitted disease’ and ‘lifelong disease’. We hereby propose to rename the non-communicable diseases as ‘socially communicable’ diseases which emphasise the share of the social drivers at a population level. It has the potential to create a positive notion amongst the population that it is transmissible and also it shows an inclusive approach of what it consists of. On the other hand, the present communicable or infectious disease can be renamed as ‘bio-communicable’ diseases. Revising the surrounding environment of a community, adopting a sustainable policy towards positive influence in every sector of development will help people to adopt and practice healthy behavioural patterns at the individual as well as at the community level.
Assessment of Global Forest Coverage through Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Metkewar P S , Chauhan Ravi , Prasanth A , Sathyamoorthy Malathy
Published: February 2024

This exploration of paper presents an investigation of the Forest Region Inclusion Dataset that gives data on the backwoods inclusion of different nations overall from 1990 to 2020. The dataset contains country-wise information on population, population density, population development rate, total population rate, and forest region inclusion. We examined this dataset to decide the patterns in woodland region inclusion across various nations and mainlands, as well as the connection among populace and backwoods region inclusion. Our discoveries show that while certain nations have essentially expanded their forest region inclusion, others have encountered a decline. Besides, we found that population density and development rate are adversely related with forest area coverage. Authors have implemented four machine learning algorithms that are Linear Regression, Decision Tree, Random Forest and Support Vector Machine on the dataset.
Deformation spaces, rescaled bundles, and the generalized Kirillov formula
Authors: Braverman Maxim , Haj Saeedi Sadegh Ahmad Reza
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we construct a smooth vector bundle over the deformation to the normal cone

\mathrm{DNC}(V,M)

through a rescaling of a vector bundle

E\to V

, which generalizes the construction of the spinor rescaled bundle over the tangent groupoid by Nigel Higson and Zelin Yi. We also provide an equivariant version of their construction. As the main application, we recover the Kirillov character formula for the equivariant index of Dirac-type operators. As another application, we get an equivariant generalization of the description of the Witten and the Novikov deformations of the de Rham–Dirac operator using the deformation to the normal cone obtained recently by O. Mohsen.
Synthesis of electronically tunable multifunction biquad filter using voltage differencing differential input buffered amplifiers
Authors: Bunrueangsak Sirigul , Jaikla Winai , Chaichana Amornchai , Supavarasuwat Piya , Siripongdee Surapong , Suwanjan Peerawut
Published: February 2024

Biquad filters are commonly used in analog circuits for various purposes in signal processing and communication applications. We synthesize an analog active biquad filter with five types of voltage‐mode filtering functions. The filter is synthesized using a parallel passive resistor‐inductor‐capacitor (RLC) network and unity‐gain voltage differencing amplifier. A voltage differencing differential input buffered amplifier (VD‐DIBA) is the main active component, and the biquad filter has a three‐input single‐output (TISO) topology. By replacing the passive inductor and resistor with VD‐DIBA‐based inductance and resistance simulators with a subtractor, the TISO voltage‐mode versatile filter is obtained from two VD‐DIBAs, one resistor, and two capacitors connected to the ground. The proposed filter can provide five types of voltage‐mode filtering functions: inverting bandpass and lowpass responses as well as noninverting band‐stop, high‐pass, and all‐pass responses. The all‐pass filter requires no additional active components. The three input voltage nodes have high impedance, and a low‐impedance output voltage node facilitates cascade connections without using additional voltage buffers. In addition, the natural frequency and quality factor can be electronically tuned. The quality factor is controlled without disturbing the passband gain and natural frequency. The proposed filter is simulated and verified experimentally in the Personal Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis (PSPICE) and through laboratory tests employing VD‐DIBAs implemented using commercially available components.
Association between mechanical power and intensive care unit mortality in Korean patients under pressure-controlled ventilation
Authors: Sim Jae Kyeom , Lee Sang-Min , Kang Hyung Koo , Kim Kyung Chan , Kim Young Sam , Kim Yun Seong , Lee Won-Yeon , Park Sunghoon , Park So Young , Park Ju-Hee , Sim Yun Su , Lee Kwangha , Lee Yeon Joo , Lee Jin Hwa , Lee Heung Bum , Lim Chae-Man , Choi Won-Il , Hong Ji Young , Song Won Jun , Suh Gee Young
Published: February 2024

Background: Mechanical power (MP), which integrates ventilator variables affecting ventilator-induced lung injury, has been reported to be associated with clinical outcomes. Because the original MP equation is derived from paralyzed patients under volume-controlled ventilation, its application in practice could be limited in patients receiving pressure-controlled ventilation (PCV). Recently, a simplified equation for patients under PCV was developed. We investigated the association between MP and intensive care unit (ICU) mortality.Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of Korean data from the Fourth International Study of Mechanical Ventilation. We extracted data of patients under PCV on day 1 and calculated MP using the following simplified equation: MPPCV=0.098 ∙ RR ∙ VT ∙ (ΔPinsp + PEEP). Patients were divided into survivors and non-survivors and then compared. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine association between MPPCV and ICU mortality. The interaction of MPPCV and use of neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA) was also analyzed. Results: A total of 125 patients was eligible for final analysis, of whom 38 died in the ICU. MPPCV was higher in non-survivors (17.6 vs. 26.3 J/min, P<0.001). In logistic regression analysis, only MPPCV was significantly associated with ICU mortality (odds ratio, 1.090; 95% confidence interval, 1.029–1.155; P=0.003). There was no significant effect of the interaction between MPPCV and use of NMBA on ICU mortality (P=0.579).Conclusions: MPPCV is associated with ICU mortality in patients mechanically ventilated with PCV mode, regardless of NMBA use.
Role of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio at the time of arrival to the emergency room as a predictor of short-term mortality in trauma patients with severe trauma team activation
Authors: Kim Jae Kwang , Sun Kyung Hoon
Published: February 2024

Background: Platelet-to-Lymphocyte ratio (PLR) has been studied as a prognostic factor for various diseases and traumas. This study examined the utility of PLR as a tool for predicting 30-day mortality in patients experiencing severe trauma.Methods: This study included 139 patients who experienced trauma and fulfilled ≥1 criteria for activation of the hospital’s severe trauma team. Patients were divided into non-survivor and survivor groups. Mean PLR values were compared between the groups, the optimal PLR cut-off value was determined, and mortality and survival analyses were performed. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS ver. 26.0. The threshold of statistical significance was P<0.05.Results: There was a significant difference in mean (±standard deviation) PLR between the non-survivor (n=36) and survivor (n=103) groups (53.4±30.1 vs. 89.9±53.3, respectively; P<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed an optimal PLR cut-off of 65.35 (sensitivity, 0.621; specificity, 0.694, respectively; area under the ROC curve, 0.742), and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a significant difference in mortality rate between the two groups.Conclusions: PLR can be calculated quickly and easily from a routine complete blood count, which is often performed in the emergency department for individuals who experience trauma. The PLR is useful for predicting 30-day mortality in trauma patients with severe trauma team activation.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of obstetric patients transferred directly to intensive care units
Authors: Pirzada Saad , Boswell Kimberly , Yang Jerry , Asuncion Samantha , Albelo Fernando , Tuchler Amanda , Becker Lauren , Lankford Allison , Elsamadicy Emad , Tran Quincy K
Published: February 2024

Background: Medical complications in peripartum patients are uncommon; however, such events in patients already under biological stress can lead to poor outcomes. Often, these patients are transferred to tertiary care centers, but their conditions and outcomes are not well understood. Our study looked at peripartum patients transferred to an intensive care unit (ICU) at an academic quaternary center.Methods: We reviewed charts of adult, non-trauma, interhospital transfer (IHT) peripartum patients sent to an academic quaternary ICU between January 2017 and December 2021. We conducted a descriptive analysis and used multivariable ordinal regression to examine associations of demographic and clinical factors with ICU length of stay (ICU LOS) and hospital length of stay (HLOS).Results: Of 1,794 IHT peripartum patients, 60 (3.2%) were directly transferred to an ICU. The average age was 32 years, with a median Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score of 3 (1–4.25) and median Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score of 8 (7–12). Respiratory failure was most common (32%), followed by postpartum hemorrhage (15%) and sepsis (14%). Intubation was required for 24 (41%), and 4 (7%) needed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Only 1 (1.7%) died, while 45 (76.3%) were discharged. Median ICU LOS and HLOS were 5 days (2–12) and 8 days (5–17). High SOFA was linked to longer HLOS, as was APACHE II score.Conclusions: Transfers of critically ill peripartum patients between hospitals were rare but involved severe medical conditions. Despite this, their outcomes were generally positive. Larger studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Nanostructured materials in agriculture: The influence of bismuth ferrite and graphitic carbon nitride on maize growth performances in Samaru, Nigeria
Authors: S.M. Yahaya  , N. Abdu  , I.A. Aliyu  , B. Mukhtar
Published: February 2024

This study explores the application of nanostructured materials, specifically metal-free graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3), magnesium-doped bismuth ferrite (Bi0.7Mg0.3FeO3), and a heterojunction of g-C3N4 and bismuth ferrite (g-C3N4/BiFeO3), in influencing maize growth and performances in Samaru, Nigeria. The study involves the synthesis and characterization of these nanostructured materials, confirming their structural integrity and stability for photocatalytic applications. The greenhouse experiment employs a range of treatments, including a control (no fertilization), +P +K inorganic fertilizer, the recommended farmer's fertilizer rate (120:60:60), and varied levels of the synthesized nanostructured materials (1 g, 2 g and 3 g). The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design, and maize (SAMMAZ 15) was used as test crop. Graphitic carbon nitride consistently exhibits the highest plant height, while the recommended rate and magnesium-doped bismuth ferrite exceled in stem girth. Root dry weight was significantly higher in the recommended rate and bismuth ferrite treatments, emphasizing their positive influence on root development. Similar trends were observed in shoot dry weight, with the recommended rate outperforming other treatments. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of treatment levels, identifying level 2 (2 g) as optimal for improved maize performance, aligning with the recommended rate of traditional fertilizer application. While nanostructured materials showed promising performances compared to the control, their impact on growth is comparable to conventional fertilizers. This research provides valuable insights into the potential of nanostructured materials in promoting maize growth, emphasizing the need for further exploration of their mechanisms and optimal application levels in agricultural practices.
Evaluation of Total Concentrations and Extractable Fractionations of Cd, Co and Ni in Soils from Dumpsites across Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Oduah R. N. , Amaibi P. M. , Konne J. L. , Boisa N.
Published: February 2024

The mobility of trace metals in soils strongly depends on the forms in which the metals are bound to major soil components. This study aims to determine the total concentrations and extractable fractionations of Cd, Co and Ni in soil samples collected from dumpsites across Rivers State, Nigeria. Solar Thermo Elemental Atomic Absorption Spectrometer model (SG 71906) was used after mixed acid digestion (HCl: HNO3 in a ratio of 3:1 v/v) and modified BCR sequential extraction procedure. The concentration levels of Cd, Co and Ni in all the samples varied, with mean values of 13.48 11.85, 25.29 17.62 and 20.52 15.66 mg/kg, respectively. Using the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) sequential extraction procedure, the elements recoveries were within the acceptable range varying between 92.10% and 98.33% for Co and Cd, respectively. Data from the BCR extraction procedure revealed that the majority of Cd fraction was associated with residual fraction, Co fraction bound to the exchangeable fraction, while Ni was found to be associated with oxidisable fraction. These results suggest that the trace elements in the soil were highly mobile and bioavailable for plant uptake. Results from the findings particularly correlation analysis is indicative of the fact that some of the contaminants may have anthropogenic and natural origin. Hence, these contaminants could pose significant threat to human health and the environment.
Extraction Characterization of Oils Extracted from different Parts of Red and Yellow Varieties of Anacardium occidentale (Lin)
Authors: Nwosu N. B. , Okoronko E. E. , Njoku D. K. , Emole P. O.
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study was to extract and characterized the oils from different parts of red and yellow varieties of Anacardium occidentale after extractions using Soxhlet extractor and steam distillation techniques and characterization of the bioactive components using GC/MS analysis. Physicochemical parameters of the extracted oils were analyzed, and the bioactive compositions were also examined. The results showed that the oils extracted were within 0 and 0.5% moisture content and pH values ranged from 3.7 to 4.7.  The average relative densities of the extracted oils by Soxhlet extraction and steam distillation at temperature 25oC were 0.887 and 0.8745 g/cm3 respectively, with average saponification value of 132.45 mgKOH/g for Soxhlet extraction and 127.98 mgKOH/g for steam distillation. The iodine values of all the oils were between 35 and 19.00 mg iodine/100g; while the refractive index was between 1.7 and 1.9. The acid values were within the range of 10.00 and 13.00 mgKOH/g, and peroxide value of 1.67 and 1.20 mmol/l. The oils had low viscosity which were within 28 and 32 mpa.s. The compounds identified from the GC-MS results showed that cashew nut shell oil contained cardol, anacardic acid, cardanol, 2-methyl cardol, triacconten and β-sitosterol. The main bioactive components of the extracted oil identified from the stem bark, root bark, and leaf were alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenoids, and saponins. This study, therefore, showed that Soxhlet extraction could be a better extraction method for extraction of oil from cashew nut shell which had higher relative density; while cashew stem bark, root bark and the leaf which had lower density were selective based on the target products.
Development of passenger’s waiting time model at Bus Public Transit Terminal
Authors: Ibrahim M.N. , Ede J.K.
Published: February 2024

Passenger’s waiting time at terminal is a key constituent of travel time, as long waiting time increases the overall journey time. In Nigeria,  urban-rural bus transit system is associated with long waiting time. This study evaluates bus transit users’ waiting times at  terminal with perceived and actual waiting times (PWT and AWT) along with associated bus service frequency (BSF). Bus public transit  operating from Enugu city (as origin) to 6 local government areas (Awgu, Isi-Uzo, Nkanu west, Nsukka, Oji River and Udenu) of the state  as destinations was studied. Data were collected on AWT and PWT at Old Park, Enugu for 30 days from 8 am to 6 pm (5 days per route).  Data on AWT and PWT were collected based on passenger’s observation and oral interview, respectively. The study discovered that transit  users incurred long waiting times, with 80 – 90% of the users incurring AWT of 21 minutes to 1 hour and more, indicating a poor service quality. Also, 80 – 90% of the users overestimated their PWT by 25 – 60%. At 95% confidence level, PWT is significantly longer than  AWT (P < 0.05) for all the routes. A passenger’s perceived waiting time model was developed for predicting PWT based on AWT. The  model developed showed that PWT is strongly correlated with AWT, with an R2 = 0.9591 and F-significance < 0.05. This suggests that that  AWT accounts for 96% variability in PWT. Consequently, the model developed exhibits a reasonable accuracy, hence, can be applied for prediction of passenger’s perceived waiting time. The mean BSF for Enugu – Nsukka and Enugu – Oji River routes were 30 and 21 buses  per day, respectively. While, the other 4 routes recorded lower values of 7 – 9 buses per day, resulting in longer waiting times than the  other 2 routes. The implication of long passengers’ waiting time suggests the need for shifting from unscheduled to scheduled operation  and improved BSF by shortening bus headways to minimize waiting time.
An innovative simulation algorithm for optimising the cost of communal water supply systems using EPANET
Authors: Fashanu T.A. , Ndunaga C. , Ogundero M.A. , Oluwatusin O.
Published: February 2024

In this work, the EPANET software is used to parametrize the design, simulate and optimise the overall cost of building and running a  reliable, sustainable and efficient communal Water Supply System. Considering a model community of forty houses with an average of six  occupants per home, the developed optimization algorithm using the simulated annealing heuristics approach minimizes the total  cost of continuous water distribution to the community through a system of pipe network in a way that satisfies the critical hydraulic rules and constraints for efficient water distribution. Thus, the controlled variables of the simulated system include volumetric flow,  velocity and head loss. To realize the desired goal, the prototyped communal water distribution system was first simulated by water free  fall i.e., only gravity feed under a peak demand flow condition. This facilitated the identification and localization of head-loss zones.  Subsequently, virtual pump stations of various capacities were optimally introduced as boosters at identified nodal points to overcome  critical head losses. The response of the system to varying capacities of the booster pumps was then used to analyse and determine the  optimum capacity of the pump. Simulation outcome showed that the optimum least cost design for a sixtyyear system’s life cycle is  achieved by using a combination of gravity and 5 hp (3.73 kW) pump with optimum pipe diameter ranging from 60 - 150mm.
Evaluation of rainfall rates and rain-induced signal attenuation for satellite communication in the South-South Region of Nigeria
Authors: Ukommi U. , Ekanem K. , Ubom E. , Udofia K.
Published: February 2024

Rain fade causes signal attenuation which can relatively results in signal quality performance degradation, increased pathloss and  coverage area reduction in satellite communication networks, most especially in the tropics and at higher operational frequencies above  10GHz. Analysis of rain attenuation provides useful insight for satellite communication engineers for efficient network planning and  design within the region of study. Hence this paper presents threeyear analysis of signal-induced attenuation in the South-South States  of Nigeria for the cities of Port-Harcourt, Uyo, Calabar and Eket, whose terrain characteristics could be generalized to represent urban,  sub-urban and rural terrains in Nigeria. The International Telecommunications Union Radio-wave propagation (ITU-R P618-13) model was  used to estimate the long-term rain attenuation at 10GHz, 20GHz and 30GHz for satellite communication applications. Results  obtained at 10GHz, 20GHz and 30GHz operational frequencies show that at high frequency, rain fade can cause signal attenuation levels  in the south-south region of Nigeria. In all, Calabar recorded the highest rain rate and corresponding highest attenuation level of 96.13dB  at 30GHz compared to 50.29dB at 20GHz for the period under review.
Assessment of the feasibility of Aku small hydropower project using RETscreen Energy Model Software
Authors: Chinyere O. , Sanusi Y. , Kulla D.
Published: February 2024

The RETScreen 4 software was used in this study to conduct the analysis to determine the viability of the river Aku hydropower plant in  Uturu, Abia State. The study was carried out using data from Ivo river dam authority, previous studies and literatures. The result of the  study showed that the Aku river could generate an annual energy of 6,434,000kWh and will be able to payback its project cost at 6.3 years.  The estimated annual GHG reduction of the project stood at 4,310.7tCo2 an equivalent of 1,852,317 litres of gasoline not used. The sensitivity/risk analysis indicated that electricity export rate (electricity sales price), initial cost and debt interest rate impacted the project  profitability the most in that order. The project NPV is sensitive to both the debt interest rate and the initial cost of the project as variation  in cost above 30% will throw the project into a negative NPV. In the light of the available information, the project is feasible if  implemented.
Obesity and hypoglycaemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus outpatients on insulin therapy in Nigeria–data from the multicentre evaluation of type 2 diabetes mellitus outpatients patients on insulin therapy (METOIN) study
Authors: Nkpozi M.O. , Mbah I.O. , Bozimo G.E. , Akhidue K. , Ezeude C.M. , Ogbonna S.U. , Owolabi F.A.
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective: Despite the obvious benefits of early insulin use in achieving good glycaemic control, insulin linked  overweight/obesity and hypoglycaemia are sources of concern and worry. Burden of these side effects among type 2 diabetes mellitus  (T2DM) outpatients on insulin therapy in Nigeria is unknown.

Subjects and Methods: This was a prospective, cross sectional and observational study in which consenting T2DM outpatients that meet  the inclusion criteria for the study in five tertiary health facilities were simultaneously recruited and relevant data obtained via  investigator-administered questionnaire. Data obtained which included gender, arthropometric measures, hypoglycaemia and where it  was treated were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 software.

Results: A total of 245 T2DM outpatients were recruited into the study, made up of 107 (43.7%) male and 138 (56.3%) female. Of this, 121  (49.8%) patients were overweight while 70 (28.7%) were obese. Among the patients, 104 (42.4%) T2DM outpatients on insulin therapy  reported hypoglycaemia which was mild in 83 (79.8%) of the patients

Conclusion: A significant number of the type 2 DM outpatients on  insulin therapy were overweight/obese with mild hypoglycaemia in a majority of them.
Treatment of chronic hepatitis B infection in Nigeria: The need for a paradigm shift
Authors: Yusuf A.R. , Dauda A.D.
Published: February 2024

No Abstract.
Effects of diet on ruminal methanogenic archaea composition and diversity in cashmere goats
Authors: Li K.N. , Wei Y.R. , Na R.H.
Published: February 2024

Diet is the most direct way to affect the rumen microbial community. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of different diets on ruminal methanogen composition in cashmere goats. Twenty four cashmere goats were randomly divided into four groups that were fed alfalfa hay (AH), alfalfa hay plus concentrate (AHC), corn stalks (CS), and corn stalks plus concentrate (CSC). The concentration of ammonia N for the group fed AHC was substantially higher than in the other groups. The concentrations of total VFAs, acetate, and propionate in AH and AHC groups were higher than in the CS and CSC groups. The abundance of archaea was markedly different among different groups based on a high throughput sequencing method. The abundance of Candidatus_Methanomethylophilus was 21.28% in the AH group, which was higher than the other groups. Unclassified_c_Thermoplasmata was the dominant methanogen in the AH and AHC groups, with abundances of 48.09% and 44.97%, respectively; Methanobrevibacter was the dominant methanogen in the CS and CSC groups, with abundances of 41.22% and 20.73%, respectively. A positive correlation was identified between pH and Methanosphaera; a negative relationship was observed between acetate and Unclassified_o_Thermoplasmatales. In conclusion, the methanogen communities in cashmere goats varied on different diets. In the alfalfa hay based diets, the Methanomassiliicoccales affiliated groups were the dominant methanogens in the rumen of the goats. However, when fed the corn stalk based diets, Methanobrevibacter was the dominant methanogen in the rumen fluid. The results were related to dietary composition, especially crude protein content.
Evolution of Physical Therapy Scholarship in the Philippines: A Scientometric Analysis of Peer-Reviewed Publications
Authors: Lazaro Rolando T. , Escuadra Catherine Joy T. , Robinson Eric , Rotor Esmerita , Vitente Arvie C. , Gorgon Edward James R.
Published: February 2024

Introduction. The Philippine Journal of Physical Therapy began publication in 2021. The editorial board identified as a high-priority project to undertake a detailed analysis of current publishing practice among physical therapy researchers in the Philippines.

Methods. This study systematically mined publications from Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed using the keywords “physical therapy” OR “physiotherapy” OR “physical therapist” OR “physiotherapist.” Results were further refined to only include English publications by authors from the Philippines. Publication, citation, collaboration, and text-co-occurrence network analysis were done using RStudio and VOSViewer.

Results. A total of 122 publications from 1987 to 2022 were identified. Majority of the literature was primary studies (70.49%), secondary or review articles (13.93%) and proceedings of national and/or international conferences (10.65%). The most common and earliest collaborators of Filipino authors were from Australia, United States of America and Hong Kong. Five clusters of co-occurring keywords were identified: (1) case report, validity, function, mobility; (2) meta-analysis, systematic review, database, search; (3) perception, qualitative, barrier, value; (4) Evidence-based practice, attitude, need, confidence; and (5) COVID-19, pandemic, Filipino, cross-sectional.

Discussion. This study provides an overview and valuable guidance for physical therapy researchers, practitioners, educators, and policymakers to plan for the future direction of physical therapy research in the country. Stakeholders should consider the results of the study in identifying future projects to build capacity, develop research agendas and policy guidelines, and create collaborative opportunities to further improve physical therapy research productivity in the country.
La reducción vital y la vocación interdisciplinar de la fenomenología. Un diálogo entre Francisco Leocata y Maurice Merleau-Ponty
Authors: Buffone Jesica Estefanía , Grassi Martín
Published: February 2024

Francisco Leocata propone una nueva reducción fenomenológica, que llama reducción vital, la cual nombra el centramiento del sujeto encarnado, la necesidad de sabernos traspasados por la historia y por los otros como punto de partida para la producción de conocimiento en el seno de nuestra experiencia de la vida. Esta reducción vital permite pensar al ser humano desde las diversas disciplinas científicas, en diálogo con la fenomenología y la metafísica. Si bien Leocata construye su fenomenología personalista sobre las bases de la fenomenología trascendental de Edmund Husserl, en este trabajo queremos resaltar las posibilidades que se abren a partir de un diálogo más estrecho con Merleau-Ponty, quien ha subrayado el carácter interdisciplinar de la fenomenología.
Evolution of Vortex Structures Generated by a Rigid Flapping Wing with a Winglet in Quiescent Water
Authors: Srikanth Goli  , Arnab Roy  , Subhransu Roy  , Imil Hamda Imran
Published: February 2024

This study aims to the utilization of vortex structures generated through wing flapping for achieving sustainable flight, and the motivation is elicited by the phenomenon observed in natural flyers. The vortex structures in the flow field generated by a flapping rigid wing are captured using vorticity and the LAMDA2 criterion. The study investigates a comparative analysis between a wing both with and without a winglet. Moreover, the influence of flapping frequency is examined as well. For the experiments, particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements are employed for the flow field around mechanical flapping motion in a quiescent water condition. The flapping mechanism has one-degree freedom, showing a 1:3 ratio in motion, and tested wings at 1.5 and 2.0 Hz. A “modified” vortex filamentation and fragmentation phenomenon is proposed as a significant finding in the present study, based on a comprehensive analysis of the flow field around the wing with a winglet.
Specifying The Study Of Trade And Convergence Of Brics Economies In Post Pandemic Era
Authors: Ravindra Kumar  , Pavnesh Kumar  , Leena Sharad Shimpi  , Om Prakash Verma
Published: February 2024

This conference paper examines how trade, income distribution, and convergence among the BRICS countries have been affected by the formation of the BRICS economies. Trade and convergence rate relationships have been examined using intra-trade organization, panel unit roots testing, and single difference technique. An estimated convergence meter between the major trading partners of the BRICS countries and themselves has been calculated in the post-COVID-19 trade openness era. The investigation's conclusions demonstrated that the BRICS countries came closer together over the investigation's duration. However, no evidence of a connection to the formation of the post-BRICS economic union appears to exist. The post-trade reform examination of the BRICS countries produced different results with respect to trade and convergence. The panel unit roots test results also show that, with the exception of the Indian economy and import-based groups, conditional convergence is visible in the BRICS alliance and all export-based groups. Additionally, flawless convergence has been confirmed in every BRICS nation. The paper so suggests that the BRICS countries should participate in competitive trade and investment activities in the post-pandemic globalization era.
Oral Clarithromycin Therapy for Perioral Dermatitis in Children: A Retrospective Case-series Study
Authors: Yamasaki Kenshi
Published: February 2024

Background: Effective treatments for pediatric periorificial dermatitis are limited. We assessed the clinical utility of oral Clarithromycin (CLR) in pediatric patients with periorificial dermatitis. Methods and Findings: A retrospective medical record review of pediatric patients with periorificial dermatitis was performed. A total of 39 pediatric patients with periorificial dermatitis received prescription of oral CLR during January 2021 and February 2023. The median age at diagnosis was 5.3 ± 3.9 years (interquartile rage 2-9). Except 8 who did not revisit the clinic and could not obtain safety data, none of 31 experienced adverse events during CLR meditation. Among 31 cases who revisited the clinic, we selected 25 cases for efficacy evaluation and excluded 6 cases who stopped medication by their own reason and/or did not take medication regularly as prescribed. Twenty-five cases included 13 females and 12 meles and average age was 6.2 ± 4.2 years (interquartile rage 2-9). Twenty-three cases achieved Complete Response (CR) by CLR: 18 achieved CR in 4 weeks and 5 achieved CR in 8 weeks. One case showed partial response (PR) by CLR and one case worsen after CLR administration with cessation of TCI. Among 23 CR cases, 7 cases (30%) had relapsed during 1.5 to 19 months after CR. All of relapse cases achieved CR by readministration of CLR. Conclusion: Oral clarithromycin is an effective and well tolerated therapeutic option for pediatric patients with periorificial dermatitis.
Implementación de modelos educativos inclusivos: retos y oportunidades
Authors: Rodríguez Idilia del Pilar Reyna , Álvarez Luis Ignacio Delgado , Coello Juleidy Janela Bodero , Gómez Irving Antonio Palacios , Vélez Yoconda Pilar Rodriguez , Méndez Yaritza Xiomara Ortega
Published: February 2024

La implementación de modelos educativos inclusivos presenta tanto retos como oportunidades en el ámbito educativo. Entre los desafíos se encuentran la resistencia institucional y la reticencia al cambio arraigadas en prácticas tradicionales, la falta de recursos adecuados, la necesidad de capacitación docente específica, la dificultad en la evaluación del éxito inclusivo, las barreras arquitectónicas y logísticas, y la diversidad de necesidades individuales de los estudiantes. A pesar de estos obstáculos, las oportunidades son notables. La inclusión mejora los resultados académicos, fortalece la autoestima y fomenta una participación más activa y significativa de los estudiantes. Además, contribuye al desarrollo emocional, promueve habilidades sociales y emocionales fundamentales, y prepara a los estudiantes para la vida adulta. La implementación exitosa requiere un cambio cultural en la escuela, colaboración entre profesionales de la educación y el reconocimiento y celebración de la diversidad, contribuyendo así a mejorar la calidad general de la educación.
Experimentos de química para aprimorar a experiencia educacional em sala de aula
Authors:   , Hott Natália Teixeira
Published: February 2024

O ensino de química é permeado por algumas dificuldades, pois vários alunos relatam que não conseguem associar os conteúdos com sua realidade e não identificam apli- cabilidade em algumas fórmulas, teorias ou conceitos. O presente trabalho busca ma- neiras de construir experimentos para serem utilizados em sala de aula, com materiais de fácil acesso, que possibilitem essa conexão com as fases representacional, feno- menológica e teórica, que, em conjunto, caracterizam a construção do conhecimento químico. Ao todo, são nove experimentos na temática de reações químicas inorgâni- cas, que possuem um caráter investigativo e são de simples execução, ordenados de maneira a considerar turmas e professores que não possuem familiaridade com essa atividade. Os experimentos foram avaliados por seis professores de química do ensino médio regular, de acordo com a escala de Likert, ficando claro que o produto educa- cional pode ser usado nas aulas como recurso didático. Na sua totalidade, os profes- sores avaliaram o produto educacional positivamente para uso em sala aula, tor- nando-o aplicável no ensino médio. Palavras-chave: Ensino de química. Experimentação. Reações inorgânicas.
AI in biomedical research: unleashing the potential of a transformative partnership
Authors: Zeba Haque  , Farina Hanif  , Muhammad Owais
Published: February 2024

Biomedical Science research, by its very nature, generates colossal volumes of data ranging from genomics to medical imaging, that is both complex and diverse. It demands a lot of time and expertise to translate that data into meaningful interpretations to be applied on the bedside. AI algorithms on the other hand, possess the exceptional ability to examine this wealth of information, uncovering patterns and relationships. It has been claimed that it may elude even the most astute human minds1 in some areas of social sciences. The interpretation of data in the field of Biomedical research, however, remains debatable2. Nonetheless, it can accelerate the pace of scientific discovery, enabling researchers to identify novel therapeutic targets, understand disease mechanisms, and develop innovative treatments. Moreover, the resounding question that echoes across laboratories and research institutions globally is not whether AI can be employed in biomedical research, but instead, how extensively we can tap into its complete potential. The integration of AI into Biomedical Sciences is yet not free from its set of challenges. Privacy concerns and ethical considerations related to data usage must be diligently addressed. Additionally, robust validation and transparency in AI models are essential to ensure their reliability and safety3.
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Oxidative stress in polycystic ovary syndrome: a case- control study
Authors: Syeda Samira Azim  , Zeba Haque  , Sadaf Khan  , Jahan Ara Hasan  , Sidra Zaheer  , Sajida Parveen
Published: February 2024

Objective: To compare the serum levels of biochemical and oxidative stress markers i.e., malondialdehyde (MDA) and paraoxonase-1(PON1) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients and healthy female individuals of reproductive age group (18-40 years).
Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Karachi from June 2019 to October 2020. Seventy Subjects including 35 PCOS patients that have primary subfertility problem (cases) and 35 healthy and fertile females (controls) were recruited. Serum samples were collected for analysis of insulin, sex hormone-binding globulin, testosterone, fasting blood glucose and lipid profile. PON 1 and MDA levels were estimated by ELISA. Comparison between the two groups was done using independent t-test.
Result: The patients had significantly increased mean body mass index (28.5+4.6 kg/m2 vs 25.7+4.5 kg/m2, p=0.014), systolic (129.6±13.9 mm of Hg vs 113±7.7 mm of Hg, p< 0.001) and diastolic (78.7±8.8 mm of Hg vs 74.6±6.7 mm of Hg, p=0.032) blood pressures compared to controls. The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were significantly lower in PCOS (42.2±8.6mg/dl) than controls (48.8±11.8mg/dl, p=0.009, p=0.009). Serum insulin (14.3±5.8 µIU/mL) vs (10.0±5.2 µIU/mL), p=0.002 and testosterone levels (1.3±0.9 nmol/L) vs (0.82±0.3 nmol/L), p<0.001 were significantly higher whereas sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels (35.2±19.7nmol/L vs 58.8±31.0 nmol/L) were significantly lower in patients than healthy controls (p<0.001). Both oxidative stress markers, paraoxonase 1 (7.7±2.4 vs 6.4±2.6 µg/mL, p=0.04) and malondialdehyde (2.5±1.0 vs 1.9+0.51µg/mL, p=0.034) levels were significantly elevated in PCOS patients than controls. No significant correlation was found between dietary habits and life style between cases and controls.
Conclusion: The study reported significantly elevated levels of oxidative stress markers in PCOS patients.
Keywords: Blood Glucose, Blood Pressure, Testosterone, Oxidative stress, Malondialdehyde, Lipoproteins, Cholesterol, Lipids, Enzyme.
Modulation of Apoptotic and Akt/PI3K/mTOR pathways to target Glioblastoma Cells using synthetic compound PGEA-AN
Authors: Shafea Saad  , Farina Hanif  , Shabana Usman Simjee  , Shaheen Faizi  , Lubna Khan  , Ambreen Ashfaque
Published: February 2024

Objective: To investigate the anticancer potential of a novel synthetic derivative of a naturally occurringditerpenoid against glioblastoma.Method: The in vitro study was conducted at the Ojha Campus of Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, fromFebruary to December 2021, and comprised U87 cells. The 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide assay was used to determine the growth inhibitory effect of 16(R and S) – phenylamino-cleroda3, 13(14) Zdiene-15, 16 olide and standard drug temozolomide against glioblastoma cells, and half-maximal inhibitoryconcentration was calculated. Microscopy and immunocytochemistry were used to investigate apoptoticmorphology and active caspase-3 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) expression. Quantitative real time polymerasechain reaction was used to investigate the expression of proliferation markers. Data was analysed using SPSS 21.Results: Both the synthetic derivative and the standard drug significantly inhibited growth of U87 cells (p<0.001)with half-maximal inhibitory concentration of 19uM and 185uM, respectively. Apoptotic morphology andupregulation of active caspase-3 protein expression was observed in cells treated with half-maximal inhibitoryconcentration doses of both the synthetic derivative (p<0.05) and the standard drug (p<0.001), and Bcl-2 was downregulatedin both the synthetic derivative (p<0.01) and the standard drug (p=0.05). However, no significantdifference was observed in the expression of proliferation markers (p>0.05).Conclusion: The synthetic diterpene derivative PGEA-AN showed growth inhibitory actiity against glioblastoma.Key Words: Temozolomide, Caspase, Glioblastoma, Diterpenes.