bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrent flaccid paraparesis due to acquired distal renal tubular acidosis and coexistent Devic’s disease: The “double trouble”
Authors: Malakar Shobhan Lal , Mahata Rahin , Bhattacharyya Rana , Mondal Partha , Jana Jayabrata , Roy Krishnendu , Mahapatra Umakanta , Chakraborty Partha Pratim
Published: July 2024

Renal tubular acidosis (RTA) consists of a group of disorders, caused by impaired distal renal tubular acid (hydrogen ion; H+) secreting ability, impaired proximal renal tubular reabsorption of filtered bicarbonate ion (HCO32
−), or both, resulting in hyperchloremic normal anion gap metabolic acidosis. Distal RTA (dRTA) occurs due to impaired acid-secreting ability of the alpha intercalated cells. Primary (inherited) dRTA, encountered mostly in children, is due to various mutations, whereas secondary (acquired) dRTA, which may manifest at any age, develops secondary to various autoimmune systemic conditions, with Sjogren’s syndrome reported to be the leading cause. In this study, we report a case of dRTA secondary to neuromyelitis optica, diagnosis, management, and long-term outcomes, with an aim of shedding light on this rare association, which quite often could be missed.
Congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus with a novel variant of AVPR2 gene mutation: A case report
Authors: Soodhana Dhanya , Rajesh Thaliyil Veettil , Vijayakumar Madhava
Published: July 2024

Congenital nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (CNDI) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by impaired water reabsorption despite normal or elevated levels of antidiuretic hormone. We report a 6-month-old male with classical symptoms of CNDI, such as fever, excessive thirst, polyuria, and failure to thrive. Laboratory investigations revealed hypernatremia, low urine osmolality, and a lack of response to a vasopressin challenge, confirming the diagnosis. Genetic testing identified a hemizygous base pair deletion in the AVPR2 gene, leading to a frameshift mutation and premature protein truncation. Treatment strategies, including hydrochlorothiazide and amiloride therapy, aim to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Long-term management involves monitoring growth, hydration status, and genetic counseling for affected families. This case highlights the importance of early recognition and management of CNDI to prevent long-term sequelae. Further research into genetic variations and novel therapeutic approaches is warranted to improve outcomes for these children.
Development of Omani-branded food composition database for an electronic dietary assessment tool
Authors: Buthaina Al-Balushi , Mostafa Waly , Ruqaiya Al-Balushi , Zahir Al-Attabi
Published: July 2024

Background: The food composition database provides a comprehensive information on the various nutrients present in the foods. At present, Oman lacks a food composition database (FCDB) of locally produced branded foods, which necessitates the development of such a database. Objectives: The aim of this study is to develop an FCDB for Omani-branded foods available for local consumption for an electronic dietary assessment tool. Methods: Back-of-pack (BOP) nutritional information of these branded foods available in our markets was gathered from manufacturer data. Food mapping was used to match the branded foods according to the BOP macronutrient data and food description to the appropriate generic food item from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or Canadian FCDBs. Results: The developed database is composed of 571 food items with associated 60 nutrients. The majority of food items (91%) were mapped to a single generic food item. The rest (9%) was mapped to multiple generic food items. Overall, 96% of food items were mapped to a single generic food, which was matched based on BOP macronutrients and item descriptions. However, the minority (4%) were mapped based on item description alone as either the BOP nutrients were implausible. Moreover, 91% of food items were individually mapped to within 10% agreement with the generic food item for energy. The fish and fish group has the largest mean of absolute percentage difference in energy between BOP and generic items (16%). Conclusion: This currently developed database would critically help to accurately assess the dietary intake of the Omani population once incorporated into an electronic dietary assessment tool, and it can be updated in the future on a regular basis.
Precision Nutrition – Evaluating Dietary Protein and Amino Acid Intake among Children Using Duplicate Dietary Samples
Authors: Krishnan Anusha , Gopakumar Gayathri , Jayapalan Dinesh Kumar , Raju Arivuchudar
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Precision nutrition, at the intersection of science and health, offers tailored dietary intervention, particularly vital for vulnerable populations like children. Focusing on protein and essential amino acids (AA), crucial for health, personalized approaches are keys for addressing deficiencies, and moving beyond generalized methods. While research on the dietary duplication technique has explored various nutrients, but there is a gap in understanding its use for assessing protein and amino acid intake, especially in children. Aim: The study aims to use the dietary duplication technique to assess the precise dietary intake of protein and AA in children, focusing on determining their exact portions and analyzing duplicate samples for content. Methods: A cross-sectional study in Chennai involved 12 children aged 4–9 years. Duplicate food portions for a day were collected from mothers in low-density polythene bags. Samples were analyzed for protein and amino acid content in a National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories-accredited laboratory. Results: Girls exhibited deficient levels of histidine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine, and tryptophan, while isoleucine met the Recommended Dietary Allowances threshold. A t-test showed significant differences in threonine levels among 4–6-year-old children, with no notable variations in 7–9-year-old children. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of precise nutrition, particularly protein and essential AA, crucial for children’s health. Addressing undernutrition is crucial, and highlighting the urgency of this concern.
A cross-sectional study on allergen reactivity in children using skin prick test
Authors: Archaka Sai Swaroop , V.S Dhivya Sree , Kumar C. Arun , Antony J.
Published: July 2024

Allergy-related illnesses are currently undergoing a worldwide increase. Infants are particularly susceptible to the substantial health hazards presented by these allergic diseases. Allergens are substantially inducing and exacerbating anxiety. Aim: The identification of the most frequently encountered allergens is fundamental and crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic disorders. Materials and methods: The Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute in Chennai conducted a cross-sectional study. Participants ranged in age from three to 17 and came to the Outpatient Department (OPD) of the Pediatrics Department at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chennai with complaints of chronic allergies. The study was approved by the Institutional Medical Ethics Committee and was scheduled to run from September 2020 to September 2021. Assuming they fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria, we included 73 individuals with a physician-diagnosed history of recurring allergies. A master chart was created and examined using SPSS 16.0 using data and information on patients. In our investigation, we found 73 cases of allergen reactivity in children. Skin prick tests (SPTs) were administered to all participants. Boys between the ages of 6 and 12 made up the bulk of our study’s participant pool. About two-thirds of the kids were born in cities. Results: Asthma is the most common kind of allergy in babies. Among the youngsters surveyed, 61.6% had no history of allergies in their family. In a study with 36 youngsters, over half of the subjects tested positive for 2 allergens. The main reason why our research participants were allergic to so many different things is because they have developed polysensitization to those things. Out of the participants tested for allergens, the results showed that 34 children (46.6%) were positive for dust mites, 21 children (28.8%) for cockroaches, 9 children (12.3%) for mosquitoes, and 2 children (2.7%) for Cassia siamea. Conclusion: Skin probing testing found dust mites to be the most common allergen in children who suffer from recurring allergies. For this reason, limiting the exposure to allergens is recommended for the successful management of allergic illnesses, particularly for those who have a history of exposure.
Triad of benign fleck retina with keratoconus with myopia – A rare case report
Authors: Gupta Ayushi , Agrawal Vishal
Published: July 2024

A 24-year-old male presented with a complaint of frequent change of glasses in both eyes. His best corrected visual acuity was 20/20 OD and 20/30 OS with a correction of − 6 DS/−3.75 DC @ 50° and − 4.5 DS/−3.25 DC @140°, respectively. Anterior-segment examination revealed a thin steep cornea with normal intraocular pressure in both eyes. Dilated fundus examination showed multiple yellow-white flecked lesions involving the entire fundus but sparing the fovea with pigmented lattices in both eyes. The flecks appeared as localized elevation at the RPE-Bruch’s membrane complex on optical coherence tomography. Corneal topography was suggestive of keratoconus. Examination of his family members did not reveal any abnormalities. Electroretinogram (ERG), electrooculogram, and color vision testing in both eyes were normal. The diagnosis of benign fleck retina with myopia with keratoconus was made. ERG helps distinguish benign familial fleck retina from other flecked retina syndromes to educate the patient about their visual prognosis. To the best of our knowledge, no such case has been reported in Indian literature till now.
Combined simultaneous bilateral central retinal artery and vein occlusion in a patient with lymphoma of the pancreatic head
Authors: Sarvepalli Skandha Harshita , Reddy Venugopal Y C , Manchala Upendra B , Rijey Joash , Anthwal Deepak , Ravilla Sathya
Published: July 2024

Combined occlusion of retinal artery and vein is a rare event, and its occurrence in both eyes concurrently in a young patient is an even rare phenomenon. We report such a case in which a 45-year-old female presented with sudden loss of vision, 2 weeks following the third cycle of chemotherapy. Fundus findings and investigations pointed toward combined bilateral simultaneous retinal artery and vein occlusion. Vision did not improve despite treatment. To our knowledge, this extreme presentation of total occlusive disease and its association with lymphoma of the pancreas is the first to be reported in the literature. This case highlights the prothrombotic state induced by pancreatic malignancy and warrants periodic monitoring in such patients.
Peripunctal melanocytic nevus involving the lacrimal canaliculus: A case report
Authors: Ke Xianghan , Hu Wenjing , Su Jing , Hong Ying
Published: July 2024

A 56-year-old woman complained of a mass in the right eye’s lower eyelid. Slit-lamp examination revealed a dark mass with pigment in the inner canthus of the right lower eyelid involving the lacrimal punctum. The mass was removed and confirmed to be peripunctal melanocytic nevus. We have presented the first case of peripunctal melanocytic nevus involving the lacrimal canaliculus with histologic evidence. No recurrence occurred.
Refractive and topographic corneal changes associated with increased inflammatory mediators in tears after COVID-19
Authors: Reviglio Víctor , Almada Laura , Paz María Constanza , Sanchez María Cecilia , Osaba Matías , Rodriguez Eva V Acosta , Strusberg Ingrid
Published: July 2024

This is a rare case report of a sudden shift to myopic astigmatism and topography alterations in a patient who experienced mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) symptoms. A complete ophthalmologic evaluation, slit-lamp examination, corneal topography, and tear sampling for biochemical analysis were performed. Elevated corneal K-values were found, indicating abnormal anterior corneal curvature, based on the asymmetric corneal steepening index (cone location and magnitude index) in a Galilei G6 study. Tear analysis demonstrated elevated levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IP-10, IL-8, interferon-β, and prometalloproteinase-9. Ophthalmologists should maintain a high level of suspicion when symptoms suggestive of corneal involvement arise in patients recently infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.
Epibulbar osseous choristoma manifesting as a lacrimal gland mass: A case report
Authors: Ahmed Sohail , Alhajraf Khaled , Mudhar Hardeep S , Sandramouli Soupramanien
Published: July 2024

A 13-year-old girl was referred for assessment of a right-sided epibulbar lesion, which was suspected to be a lacrimal gland mass. The patient was asymptomatic with no ocular or systemic history. On assessment, a hyperemic, firm, and ill-defined mass was noted in the superotemporal epibulbar plane in the lacrimal gland area. An excisional biopsy was performed, with the histology confirming the lesion to be an osseous choristoma. We highlight a varied presentation of an epibulbar osseous choristoma, which should be included in the differential diagnosis of such a presentation in the lacrimal gland area in the pediatric population.
A sterile corneal perforation in a postpartum lactating mother after 10 years of CXL: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Anitha Venugopal , Ravindran Meenakshi
Published: July 2024

To report a case of corneal perforation following injury with a child’s finger in a postpartum lactating mother in a corneal collagen cross-linkage with 1% riboflavin (CXL)-treated eye. A 28-year-old-female presented to us with acute and severe ocular pain in the right eye to the emergency department. She gave history of CXL done 10 years back, and examination revealed central corneal perforation with a flat anterior chamber. We managed the case successfully with penetrating keratoplasty, followed by a glaucoma tube procedure for secondary glaucoma. CXL is the standard treatment for progressive keratoconus, and its long-term safety is well known. Corneal perforation as an adverse event following CXL has also been noted in a few case reports. This case emphasizes the need for close follow-up with serials documentation of corneal thickness and prompt intervention.
External ophthalmomyiasis caused by oestrus ovis larvae
Authors: Sharma Shantanu K , Gupta Shalini , Tomar Swati , Ahluwalia Tejinder Singh
Published: July 2024

A 17 year-old man presented with redness, foreign body sensation, and itching in his right eye for a day after some dust particles fell into his eyes. On slit lamp examination of the right eye, multiple, small, translucent mobile worms; papillary conjunctival congestion; and symblepharon formation at 6’o clock with features of chronic conjunctivitis were seen over both bulbar and fornicial conjunctiva. The worms were picked up under topical anesthesia and sent for the parasitological examination, which reported it to be the larval (Oestrous ovis) of the sheep botfly. The patient was reviewed every day for a week for removal of larvae from the eye along with use of betadine eyedrops and antibiotic steroid combination.
To Study the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice about COVID-19 Pandemic among Health-care Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Northern India
Authors: Latika  , Choudhary Rashmi , Suri Ridhi , Dahiya Pushpa
Published: July 2024

Background:

As the primary carers, the health-care workers (HCWs) are interacting directly with the patients and are consequently more susceptible to infection. By enhancing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) about COVID-19, the HCWs can prevent or significantly minimize their risk of contracting it.

Objective:

This research was carried out to assess KAP about various aspects of the COVID-19 infection among HCWs and their association vis-à-vis different sociodemographic variables.

Methodology:

The study used a prospective cross-sectional design and the participants were the HCWs working in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at a tertiary care referral and academic hospital. A pretested questionnaire comprised 35 items, with 14 items about knowledge, 13 about attitude, and 8 about practices adopted by HCWs.

Statistical Analysis:

For the analysis, we used descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson Chi-square tests.

Results:

The study involved a cohort of 209 HCWs. Based on the results of descriptive statistical analysis, the participants had an average knowledge score of 9.59 with a standard deviation (SD) of 2.07. The observed scores ranged from 2.00 to 14.00. On further subgroup analysis, the mean knowledge was highest among the 19–25-year age group (mean: 9.97, minimum: 4.00, and maximum: 14.00; SD: 2.13), MBBS students (mean: 10.69, minimum: 8.00, and maximum: 14.00; SD 1.74), male participants (mean: 9.97, minimum: 5.00, and maximum: 13.00; SD: 1.62), and unmarried respondents (mean: 9.77, minimum: 2.00, and maximum: 14.00; SD 2.24).

Conclusions:

It is vital to evaluate the present KAP of health-care professionals regarding COVID-19 in the global fight against the pandemic. The study identified a few gaps in the KAP of HCWs.
In silico exploration of bioactive compounds from Acorus calamus L. for targeted treatment of ischemic heart disease: Molecular insights and therapeutic prospects
Authors: Sahu Tripura , Vedantam Giridhar , Vetrivel Umashankar
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) accounts for 80%–85% of mortality, highlighting the need to develop effective and noninvasive management strategies. Lekhana karma (therapeutic scrapping) helps in balancing the imbalanced Kapha and Medodhatu, which are important factors in the pathogenesis of IHD. Vacha—Acorus calamus Linn (AC) is 1 of the 10 Lekhaneeya drugs described in Charaka Samhita and is widely available and cost-effective. However, its bioactive phytoconstituents’ mode of action and molecular entities remain unexplored. Hence, this study aimed to elucidate the mode of action of its bioactive compounds and their interaction with IHD disease targets and pathways.

METHODS:

Phytochemicals from AC were collected, followed by screening of bioactive phytochemicals, collecting gene identifications, and pathways related to IHD. Later, common compounds and pathways were identified, and common targets between phytochemicals and pathways were sorted. A further network of phytochemicals-pathways-targets was constructed followed by molecular docking of highly enriched disease targets and phytochemicals.

RESULTS:

An in silico study revealed that 19 main active compounds of AC are interacting with 48 targets involved in regulating biological processes in the IHD. Molecular docking analyses were performed to explore the potential and affinity of these compounds with disease targets. Galangin, alpha-asarone, beta-asarone, and isoelemicin exhibited significant interactions with IHD disease targets, such as prostaglandin G/H synthase 2, cytochrome P450 1A2, transcription factor p65, vascular endothelial growth factor A, and tyrosine-protein kinase. Additionally, the study identified the interaction between the top 4 phytochemicals and the five most enriched disease targets.

CONCLUSION:

These findings provide a promising avenue for transforming bioactive phytoconstituents in AC into novel drug entities for treating IHD. The in silico approach identifies therapeutic targets, guides wet lab studies, and aids multi-compound management for IHD.
Effectiveness of error-based active learning compared to conventional lecture-based method among undergraduate dental students: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Varghese Anu Sara , Sankeshwari Roopali M. , Ankola Anil V. , Santhosh Varkey Nadakkavukaran , Chavan Prajakta , Hampiholi Vinuta , Khot Atrey J. Pai , Shah Mehul A.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Dental education assumes an indispensable role in adequately equipping students for a successful career in dentistry. Error-based active learning, an innovative approach in dental education, is a combination of mistake-driven learning (MDL) and case-based learning (CBL) to provide a transformative learning atmosphere for students. While active learning has gained popularity in dental education, the effectiveness of error-based active learning remains unexplored. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of error-based active learning among final-year dental undergraduate students in comparison with the conventional lecture-based approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A parallel-arm single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in a dental institute in India from November 2022 to December 2022. A total of 74 students were randomly allocated to two groups: Group A (n = 37) received error-based active learning and group B (n = 37) received conventional lecture-based learning approach. Atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) was chosen as the topic for the study. The knowledge of students was assessed at three intervals: baseline, post-intervention, and 4 weeks after the intervention, using a self-designed and validated questionnaire with Cronbach’s alpha of 0.87 and a content validity ratio of 0.84. A standard survey questionnaire was employed to evaluate students’ perceptions of the teaching methods.

RESULTS:

Error-based active learning group outperformed the lecture-based group significantly in the post-intervention test (20.92 ± 1.42 vs 16.97 ± 3.06), with better knowledge retention (18.30 ± 2.02 vs 14.05 ± 4.26) and positive feedback from the students.

CONCLUSIONS:

The error-based active learning approach proved superior to the conventional lecture-based method in enhancing and retaining knowledge regarding ART.
Exploring the psychological problems of mothers having the experience of death of children with untreatable genetic disorders: A qualitative study
Authors: Kermanian Marzyeh , Khodayarian Mahsa , Tafti Abbasali Dehghan , Salmani Naiire
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

A newborn with an untreatable genetic disorder could disrupt a family and affect parents’ mental health, psycho-social interaction, and parent–child relationships. This study was conducted to explore the psychological problems of mothers having the children with untreatable genetic disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This qualitative study was performed using the conventional content analysis method on 15 mothers having the children with untreatable genetic disorders selected by purposeful sampling. In-depth and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim immediately and imported into MAXQDA10 software. Lundman and Granheim’s content analysis method and Guba and Lincoln’s proposed criteria for assessing rigor of the results were used.

RESULTS:

Overall, 1067 primary codes were extracted from the interviews and after the integration of similarities grouped into 19 sub-categories and three major categories including psychological reactions before diagnosis, after determined diagnosis, and after the child’s death.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results showed that having the child with untreatable genetic disorder is considered as a notable psychological trauma and causes painful psychological reactions in parents. In this regard, the following approaches are recommended to health professionals: continuous monitoring of mental health of these families, developing a family education program, emotional and psychological support, and genetic counseling.
Effect of nurse-Led psychosocial intervention on body image distress and treatment compliance among patients undergoing treatment of cancer: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ranaut Ria , Pareek Bharat , Samual Shweta
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Dissatisfaction with one’s physique is the most common issue among cancer patients, and it is correlated with stress, anxiety, and hopelessness. The current study aimed to assess how the Nurse-Led short psychosocial intervention affected cancer patients’ body image distress and treatment compliance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

67 patients above 18 years of age and undergoing cancer treatment were enrolled in the study through complete enumeration sampling. The individuals were divided into experimental and control groups using simple randomization. A nurse-led brief psychosocial intervention program was implemented for 15 days for the experimental group while the control group was on standard treatment. The intervention’s effects were measured on the 15th day using a structured body image distress scale and self-structured treatment compliance scale. The consolidated norms of reporting trials (CONSORT) statement was used to perform the study. Utilizing SPSS, descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to analyze the data.

RESULTS:

Post-intervention on the 15th day of the program revealed a reduction in Body image distress (Mean, SD and P value; 2.73, 1.72 (experimental), 4.90 ± 2.23 (control) and <0.001). The program also resulted in improved treatment compliance (Mean, SD and P value; 3.66, 2.23 and (experimental) and 5.83, 1.62; and <0.001).

CONCLUSION:

According to the study’s findings, nurses are essential to the care of cancer patients. Nurse-led intervention can be an effective strategy to address these psychological issues and concerns.
Flipped classroom as an effective educational tool in teaching physiology for first-year undergraduate medical students
Authors: Prabhavathi K , KalyaniPraba P , Rohini P , Selvi K Thamarai , Saravanan A
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Flipped classroom (FC) teaching has recently received much attention in medical education. It has been introduced in our institution for 2 years, and we studied the effectiveness and perception of FC teaching in Physiology for first-year undergraduate students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In total, 150 out of 250 first-year MBBS students participated in this study. They were divided into two groups, each consisting of 75 students. Multiple topics in the cardiovascular system were taught to the students by employing traditional classroom (TC) didactic lectures in group A. The same topics were handled using FC in group B, where the students came prepared with the study materials the facilitator provided before class commenced. A well-planned classroom discussion with a formative assessment was conducted at the end. The test scores were compared between the two groups by using an independent t-test. A feedback report was obtained from both groups’ students to analyze the teaching-learning methods’ accomplishment.

RESULT:

FC teaching scores were significantly higher than the traditional lecture among all students. Feedback results showed that 93% of students agreed that the resource materials, group discussions, videos, and exercise tools used in FC were very useful; 95% of students agreed that it provided a good understanding and better appreciation of basic science knowledge in health and disease, and 91% reported that it was well-organized with good interaction, clear explanation, relevant information, and encouraged critical thinking with active student participation.

CONCLUSION:

FC proves to be an effective, interesting, and motivating teaching-learning module. It enhances communication skills, clinical thinking, interaction, and active student participation.
Investigating the mode of transmission of COVID-19 through genital secretions, semen, the birth canal, and lactation: A systematic review
Authors: Meamar Fatemeh Z. , Farajkhoda Tahmineh , Afshani Seyed A. , Ardakani Tayebeh S.
Published: July 2024

In a global pandemic, the coronavirus has brought new challenges to reproductive and sexual health. This systematic review has been conducted with the aim of investigating a) the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) through female-to-male sexual secretions and vice versa, b) vertical transmission to the fetus, c) transmission to the newborn through the birth canal, and d) transmission through breast milk. In this review study, to find related articles, databases were searched using English and Persian keywords from the beginning of 2019 to the end of 2023. Based on the entry and exit criteria and the qualitative evaluation of the studies based on the STROBE criterion, the final studies were summarized. According to the initial search, 5970 articles were reviewed. After removing duplicate articles and the inappropriateness of the title, the abstract of the article was not related to the objectives of the project, there was no relevant study, and retrospective studies were excluded. Finally, 120 articles were selected as final articles. The general results show that transmission of the virus through the vagina to the blood of the fetus causing septicemia, vertical transmission from the mother to the fetus, transmission through the water bag, genital secretions, and ejaculate fluid are considered rare and ruled out. Transmission through rectal secretions during anal or oral sex requires more extensive studies. It is not possible to transmit the virus through breast milk. The long-term reproductive impact of COVID-19 on the reproductive systems of women and men is unclear.
Learning styles and test anxiety in nursing students
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Kazem , Kamali Mohsen , Saed Omid
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Test anxiety has always been a common problem among students, which may be influenced by various factors such as learning styles. Considering the high prevalence of test anxiety in nursing students, the present study investigated the relationship between their learning styles and test anxiety.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present research was a correlational descriptive study conducted in January of 2023, in which 235 students from the first to sixth semesters in two nursing schools affiliated with Zanjan University of Medical Sciences were selected by stratified random method. The data collection tools included demographic questionnaires, Kolb’s learning styles, and Sarason’s test anxiety, completed by the self-report method. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics by SPSS (v. 26).

RESULTS:

The mean test anxiety score in students was 28.30 ± 3.56, which showed a high level of test anxiety, and most of them had a divergent learning style (32.2%). The highest mean of test anxiety was among students with divergent learning styles. Also, the relationship between learning styles and test anxiety is statistically significant. The LSD test for more detailed information showed that the level of test anxiety with divergent learning styles is significantly higher than those with convergent learning styles (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The findings showed that students with divergent learning styles suffer the highest test anxiety level. Considering that most nursing students participating in this research had divergent learning styles, it can be one reason for their high test anxiety. Because students with divergent learning styles mainly learn through seeing and experiencing, one of the solutions to reduce test anxiety in these students is to use observational learning methods as much as possible during teaching. Holding anxiety control and management workshops before the exam by psychological experts can be considered by educational managers.
Patterns of caffeine consumption among medical undergraduates in Secunderabad, Telangana, India
Authors: Pulla Anupama , Syed Asma , Bolisetti Venu
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Caffeine products are increasingly found in a wide range of products that abuse of the substance may be unnoticed. Introduction of new energy drinks has led to an increase in consumption of caffeine in the last few decades. Caffeine is a cognitive booster and has physically enhancing effects, leading to its higher consumption across various age groups. The objective of this study was to determine patterns of caffeine consumption and to determine the knowledge and awareness of side effects and safety limits of caffeine consumption among medical undergraduate students.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2021 to February 2022 in the Department of Community Medicine at a tertiary care institute, Secunderabad, Telangana, India, among 560 medical undergraduate students of all academic years. A predesigned, pretested, semistructured questionnaire was administered.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the study population was 19.09 years, and female preponderance (61.2%) was noted. The average self-reported caffeine consumption was 151.3 mg/day. The average caffeine consumption was found to be higher among males (174 mg/day) as compared to females (137 mg/day). The average consumption of caffeine during exam time was higher than the daily ceiling limit, >300 mg/day, in 38.1% of students, which was statistically significant (P = 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS:

Caffeine consumption during times of stress increased among medical students, which is an unfavorable sign as the majority of the times, medical students in future have to deal with physically and emotionally stressful situations during work hours.
Predicting cervical cancer screening participation using self-care behaviors among women in Iran
Authors: Ghasemi Marzieh , Savabi-Esfahani Mitra , Noroozi Mahnaz , Sattari Mohammad
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cervical cancer screening is an effective and accessible method for preventing this cancer. However, low participation rates among women have been reported. Self-care is one of the solutions to improve access to health services. This study was conducted to determine the prediction of cervical cancer screening participation using self-care behaviors among women in Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 eligible women who were referred to comprehensive health centers and women’s clinics in teaching hospitals in Isfahan, Iran, from November 2020 to April 2021. Participants were enrolled using convenience sampling. The data collection tool included researcher-made questionnaires on personal and fertility characteristics, participation in cervical cancer screening, and self-care behaviors related to cervical cancer and its screening. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used for data analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22 software.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the intention to undergo screening was low among individuals who had not undergone screening. Lack of awareness and not having enough time were the most common barriers to screening. The results of logistic regression analysis indicated that self-efficacy was the significant predictor of cervical cancer screening. With an increase in the self-care score, the 12% chance of doing a Pap smear increases significantly (P = 0.002). Furthermore, the results of multiple regression showed that with an increase in the self-care score, the chance of women who refer to screening every year, every 2–3 years, and every 4–5 years is increased to 25% (P = 0.001), 34% (P < 0.001), and 11% (P = 0.032), respectively, compared with non-referral.

DISCUSSION:

According to the results, self-care was a predictor of performing a Pap smear, and it was related to its regular performance of Pap smear too. Therefore, designing and implementing necessary interventions to increase self-care behaviors can improve women’s participation in cervical cancer screening and its regularity.
Empty nest syndrome: A concept analysis
Authors: Khatir Maryam Ahmadi , Modanloo Mahnaz , Dadgari Ali , Yeganeh Leila Teymouri , Khoddam Homeira
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Empty nest syndrome (ENS) is parents’ experience to their children leaving home. Considering the lack of a clear definition of this concept and its context-based nature, this study aimed to define the ENS concept.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A three-phase concept analysis using a hybrid model was used. In the theoretical (first) phase, a literature review was conducted using Scopus, WOS, PubMed, ProQuest, Irandoc, Research.idml, Magiran, and SID, with the search terms “empty nest syndrome,” “aged,” and “middle-aged,” and their synonyms, with no time and language restrictions until the end of 2021. After the screening, 29 relevant articles entered the study. According to the findings of the first phase, the fieldwork (second) phase was directed using the qualitative content analysis approach, and semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine elderly and middle-aged individuals with an open-ended question. Results from both were included in the final (third) phase.

RESULTS:

The theoretical phase created an operational definition to guide the fieldwork phase. The fieldwork phase resulted in the emergence of six themes. The final analysis phase formulated a comprehensive definition of this concept: “ENS is a subjective phenomenon that occurs as a result of parents’ reaction to their children leaving home.” This transition from crisis to self-regaining includes the stages of mourning or resistance reaction, feelings of loss or passive behaviors, sublimation or impulsive behaviors, adaptation, and relief. It initiates with the last child’s departure and continues until two years.

CONCLUSION:

Exploration of the concept of ENS can be the basis for designing a model or theoretical framework, devising measurement instruments for the concept and its consequences, and developing programs to increase the healthcare team’s awareness to identify the problem and conduct appropriate preventive or therapeutic measures.
Epidemiology, clinical features, and outcomes of intussusception in young children: A tertiary center experience
Authors: Thakur Vinit Kumar , Yadav Ramdhani , Prasad Ramjee , Keshri Rupesh , Chaubey Digamber , Rahul Sandip Kumar
Published: July 2024

Background:

Intussusception in young and old children is different. A study of clinical features, associations, and outcomes of these cases would enhance understanding to guide proper management.

Objectives:

Analysis of the epidemiology, associations, clinical features, and management outcomes of intussusception in children younger than 2 years.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective descriptive study on intussusception patients younger than 2 years was conducted from January 2018 to December 2022 in the department of pediatric surgery at a tertiary center. Demographic details, clinical features, and management outcomes data were collected and analyzed.

Results:

A total of patients were 133 with mean, median, and modal age of 9.5, 7, and 6 months, respectively; the maximum incidence was in March. 81.95% of cases were idiopathic; important lead points were Meckel diverticulum, inflamed appendix, roundworm, cecal duplication, and intraluminal polyps. Two postoperative cases occurred in Wilms’ tumor and congenital diaphragmatic hernia patients, whereas two postrotavirus vaccination cases were seen. Ten (7.5%) had associated malrotation which necessitated Ladd’s procedure. Only 15 cases presenting early responded to nonoperative treatment (9/15 hydrostatic reduction and 6/15 conservative management); among late presenters, 12.71% had manual reduction, 68.64% had resection and anastomosis while in 16.95%, temporary stoma was needed. Wound infection, burst abdomen, subacute intestinal obstruction, recurrent intussusception, peristomal excoriation, and stomal prolapse were a few complications along with one death.

Conclusion:

Intussusception in children younger than 2 years is a heterogeneous group. Although mostly idiopathic, several associations and well-defined lead points require additional intervention. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention ensure a favorable outcome with fewer complications.
Regenerative mechanisms of stem cells and their clinical applications for degenerative eye diseases
Authors: Zhang Baodong , Gao Shusong , Liu Shibo , Gong Xuewu , Wu Jing , Zhang Yu , Ma Li , Sheng Lijie
Published: July 2024

There are different types of treatment for eye diseases. Although the majority of eye diseases are curable with primary treatments and surgery, some of degenerative eye damages need regeneration that is not gained by conventional procedures. Stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells, human embryonic stem cell-derived retinal pigmented epithelium, and inducible pluripotent stem cells, are now considered one of the most important and safe methods for regeneration of various damaged tissues or organs. However, how will stem cell therapy contribute to regeneration and overcome degenerative eye diseases? This review discusses the regenerative mechanisms, clinical applications, and advantages of different types of stem cells for restoring degenerative eye diseases.
Comparison of diagnostic performance between diffusion models parameters and mono-exponential apparent diffusion coefficient in patients with prostate cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nematollahi Hamide , Maracy Mohammad Reza , Moslehi Masoud , Shahbazi-Gahrouei Daryoush
Published: July 2024

Background:

The importance of diffusion in prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis has been widely proven. Several studies investigated diffusion models in PCa diagnosis.

Materials and Methods:

This systematic review and meta-analysis study was performed to evaluate the ability of three diffusion models to diagnose PCa from the scientific electronic databases Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (ISI) for the period up to March 2022 to identify all relevant articles.

Results:

Eighteen studies were included in the systematic review section (7 diffusion kurtosis imaging [DKI] studies, 4 diffusion tensor imaging [DTI] studies, 4 intravoxel incoherent motion [IVIM] studies, and 3 IVIM-DKI studies). Pooled sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and summary area under each diffusion model’s curve (AUC) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. The pooled accuracy and 95% CI on detection (differentiation of tumor from normal tissue and benign prostatic hyperplasia/prostatitis) were obtained for apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) at 87.97% (84.56%–91.38%) for DKI parameters (Gaussian diffusion [DK] 87.94% [78.71%–97.16%] and deviation from Gaussian diffusion [K] 86.84% [81.83%–91.85%]) and IVIM parameters (true molecular diffusion [DIVIM] 81.73% [72.54%–90.91%], perfusion-related diffusion [D*] 65% [48.47%–81.53%] and perfusion fraction [f] 80.36% [64.23%–96.48%]). The AUC values and 95% CI in the detection of PCa were obtained for ADC at 0.95 (0.92–0.97), for DKI parameters (DK 0.94 [0.89–0.99] and K 0.93 [0.90–0.96]) and for IVIM parameters (DIVIM 0.85 [0.80–0.91], D* 0.60 [0.43–0.77] and f 0.73 [0.63–0.84]). Two studies showed that the DTI accuracy values were 97.34% and 85%. For IVIM–kurtosis model in PCa detection, two studies stated that the DIVIM-K and KIVIM-K accuracy values were 85% and 84.44% (the pooled accuracy; 84.64% with 95% CI 75.78%–93.50%), and 72.50% and 71.11% (the pooled accuracy, 72.10% with 95% CI 64.73%–79.48%), respectively.

Conclusion:

Our findings showed that among the DKI, IVIM, and ADC parameters, it seems that ADC, Dk, DIVIM, and K are the most important, which can be used as an indicator to distinguish PCa from normal tissue. The DKI model probably has a higher ability to detect PCa from normal tissue than the IVIM model. DKI probably has the same diagnostic performance in PCa detection and grading compared to diffusion-weighted imaging and ADC.
Chondroitinase ABC combined with Schwann cell transplantation enhances restoration of neural connection and functional recovery following acute and chronic spinal cord injury
Authors: Qu Wenrui , Wu Xiangbing , Wu Wei , Wang Ying , Sun Yan , Deng Lingxiao , Walker Melissa , Chen Chen , Dai Heqiao , Han Qi , Ding Ying , Xia Yongzhi , Smith George , Li Rui , Liu Nai-Kui , Xu Xiao-Ming
Published: July 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00029/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff

Schwann cell transplantation is considered one of the most promising cell-based therapy to repair injured spinal cord due to its unique growth-promoting and myelin-forming properties. A the Food and Drug Administration-approved Phase I clinical trial has been conducted to evaluate the safety of transplanted human autologous Schwann cells to treat patients with spinal cord injury. A major challenge for Schwann cell transplantation is that grafted Schwann cells are confined within the lesion cavity, and they do not migrate into the host environment due to the inhibitory barrier formed by injury-induced glial scar, thus limiting axonal reentry into the host spinal cord. Here we introduce a combinatorial strategy by suppressing the inhibitory extracellular environment with injection of lentivirus-mediated transfection of chondroitinase ABC gene at the rostral and caudal borders of the lesion site and simultaneously leveraging the repair capacity of transplanted Schwann cells in adult rats following a mid-thoracic contusive spinal cord injury. We report that when the glial scar was degraded by chondroitinase ABC at the rostral and caudal lesion borders, Schwann cells migrated for considerable distances in both rostral and caudal directions. Such Schwann cell migration led to enhanced axonal regrowth, including the serotonergic and dopaminergic axons originating from supraspinal regions, and promoted recovery of locomotor and urinary bladder functions. Importantly, the Schwann cell survival and axonal regrowth persisted up to 6 months after the injury, even when treatment was delayed for 3 months to mimic chronic spinal cord injury. These findings collectively show promising evidence for a combinatorial strategy with chondroitinase ABC and Schwann cells in promoting remodeling and recovery of function following spinal cord injury.
The burden of upper motor neuron involvement is correlated with the bilateral limb involvement interval in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Wu Jieying , Ye Shan , Liu Xiangyi , Xu Yingsheng , Fan Dongsheng
Published: July 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202505000-00032/figure1/v/2024-07-28T173839Z/r/image-tiff

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a rare neurodegenerative disease characterized by the involvement of both upper and lower motor neurons. Early bilateral limb involvement significantly affects patients’ daily lives and may lead them to be confined to bed. However, the effect of upper and lower motor neuron impairment and other risk factors on bilateral limb involvement is unclear. To address this issue, we retrospectively collected data from 586 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with limb onset diagnosed at Peking University Third Hospital between January 2020 and May 2022. A univariate analysis revealed no significant differences in the time intervals of spread in different directions between individuals with upper motor neuron-dominant amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and those with classic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We used causal directed acyclic graphs for risk factor determination and Cox proportional hazards models to investigate the association between the duration of bilateral limb involvement and clinical baseline characteristics in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. Multiple factor analyses revealed that higher upper motor neuron scores (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01–1.09, P = 0.018), onset in the left limb (HR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.58–0.89, P = 0.002), and a horizontal pattern of progression (HR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.37–0.58, P < 0.001) were risk factors for a shorter interval until bilateral limb involvement. The results demonstrated that a greater degree of upper motor neuron involvement might cause contralateral limb involvement to progress more quickly in limb-onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients. These findings may improve the management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with limb onset and the prediction of patient prognosis.