bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heart–brain Rhythmic Synchronization during Meditation: A Nonlinear Signal Analysis
Authors: Anurag Shrivastava , Singh Bikesh Kumar , Krishna Dwivedi , Prasanna Krishna , Deepeshwar Singh
Published: May 2024

Background:

Heart–brain synchronization is the integration of mind, body, and spirit. It occurs when the electrical activity of the heart and brain is synchronized. In recent years, there has been mounting curiosity to investigate the effects of meditation on heart–brain synchronization with respect to mental and emotional health and well-being. The current investigation aims to explore the rhythmic synchronicity between the brain and the heart during heartfulness meditation (HM) practice.

Materials and Methods:

The study was performed on 45 healthy volunteers who were categorized into three equal groups: long-term meditators (LTMs), short-term meditators (STMs), and nonmeditators (NMs). The electroencephalogram (EEG) signals were recorded to measure the prefrontal activity, and electrocardiogram (ECG) signals were recorded to measure the cardiac activity. The data were recorded in four states: baseline, meditation, transmission, and posttransmission. The detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) method was used for the analysis of EEG and ECG signals.

Results:

The result indicates that DFA values of EEG and ECG declined during meditation and transmission states as compared to pre- and postmeditation states. Significant results were obtained for the LTM group in all the states. A positive correlation was also observed between DFA of the heart and brain for the LTM group and no significant correlations were observed for the STM and NM groups.

Conclusion:

The shreds of evidence suggest that heart–brain synchronization facilitates mental and emotional stability. HM practice has the potential to regulate the fluctuation of the mind. Regular meditation practice may result in physiological synchrony between cardiac and neural behavior, which can be considered a quality index for meditation practice.
Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor: Clinicopathological features with outcomes in 10 patients with review of literature
Authors: Parameshwar Vivek C. , Rekhi Bharat , Duggad Ashwini , Ramadwar Mukta
Published: May 2024

Background:

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors (PMTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors, associated with long-standing, non-specific but often debilitating symptoms in the affected patients. These tumors display characteristic histopathological features and in case, identified timely, can be a boon for patients, given an excision is completely curative.

Aims:

To evaluate the clinical and histopathological features of 10 PMTs, diagnosed at our institution, along with clinical outcomes in those patients.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective study, wherein 10 PMTs, diagnosed from January 2013 to July 2022, were included.

Results:

The average age at the time of diagnosis was 40 years with an M:F ratio of 4:1. Clinical features included lumps, weakness, bone pain, difficulty in moving and walking, and pathologic fractures. The biochemical analysis showed normal serum calcium levels (average = 9.5 mg/dL), with low serum phosphorus (average = 2.2 mg/dL) and raised serum fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) levels, in all the cases, wherever available. On histopathology, all tumors showed cells arranged in a hemangiopericytomatous pattern, including oval to short spindle forms. Multinucleate giant cells were present in nine tumors, and characteristic “grungy calcifications” was observed in eight tumors. Prominent pseudo cystic spaces were seen in eight tumors. A significant number of mitotic figures and tumor necrosis were not seen in any tumor. In five cases where follow-up was available, there was complete resolution of symptoms post-resection with no recurrence or metastasis. All those patients were free of disease until the last follow-up.

Conclusion:

This constitutes the first largest comprehensive study on these rare tumors from our country. PMTs can be diagnosed based on certain histopathological features and correlation with clinicoradiological and biochemical findings. These are invariably benign neoplasms. Patients are relieved of their debilitating symptoms after adequate surgical tumor resection. Therefore, their correct and timely diagnosis is crucial.
Synchronous multiple myeloma and lung adenocarcinoma: A clinical series
Authors: Ye Fang , Wang Huan , Li Ningning , Liu Aijun , Chen Wenming
Published: May 2024

Background:

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterised by an increased number of monoclonal immunoglobulin-producing plasma cells that malignantly grow in the bone marrow. Lung cancer is one of the most common malignancies and at the advanced stage may become metastatic to the bone. Rarely, MM and lung cancer are synchronously present in the same patient.

Materials and Methods,

Results:

In this report, we describe five cases of MM synchronous with lung adenocarcinoma including λ light chain in three cases and ϰ light chain in two cases. Two patients achieved complete remission, and no progression was seen in two patients.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, synchronous MM and lung adenocarcinoma are clinically rare, and diagnosis should be made scrupulously based on morphology, immunology, cytogenetics, molecular biology and biopsy pathology.
Association of common mental disorders with pulmonary tuberculosis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Goel Nikhil , Goyal Vipin , Girdhar Ritika , Goel Sapna , Kumar Vipin
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Tuberculosis (TB) and mental illness share few similar factors, for example, poverty, malnutrition, and stress. Our objective was to determine the association of TB among mentally ill patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care center located in rural area. All patients having respiratory symptoms were screened for TB, and the patients diagnosed with TB were taken as subjects and those who did not tested positive for TB were taken as controls. Sociodemographic proforma and Self Report Questionnaire (SRQ-20) were used as study tools. Result: Presence of pulmonary TB was treated as outcome (dependent variable) while common mental disorders (CMD) as independent variable; both were categorized as present or absent. We found statistically significant (P = 0.005) association between overall CMDs and TB (OR: 2.16, 95% CI 1.32–3.55). Conclusion: TB among mentally ill patients is very high, and we recommend that TB care and prevention services be integrated into mental health centers.
Incidence of Clostridium difficile Infection Detected by Premier Toxin A and B Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay and Underlying Risk Factors in Patients Admitted to a University Hospital in Northern India
Authors: Kar Mitra , Kumar Awadhesh , Tiwari Ritika , Tejan Nidhi , Sahu Chinmoy , Jain Mudra , Patel Sangram Singh , Goyal Urvashi , Ghoshal Ujjala
Published: May 2024

Background:

Clostridium difficile is a toxin-producing, Gram-positive, spore-forming anaerobic Bacilli isolated from air, water, soil, and human and animal feces. This study was performed to recognize the incidence of C. difficile infection (CDI) at this center by detecting toxigenic C. difficile using Premier Toxin A and B Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) from stool samples.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study was performed in the department of microbiology for 1 year from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022. All data were extracted from ward files, hospital electronic records, and laboratory registers. Statistical analysis was aided by the software program IBM SPSS Statistics version 20.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).

Results:

We included 788 stool samples from patients with suspected CDI. The incidence of CDI at our center was 15.73% (124/788, 15.73%) based on C. difficile toxin positivity by Premier Toxin A and B ELISA. The mean age of patients was 37.83 ± 20.82 years with a male predominance (78/124, 62.9%). Patients with hypertension, and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients were significantly associated with patients without inflammatory bowel disease. Pseudomembranous colitis was significant in patients not receiving appropriate antibiotics. Among underlying comorbidities, Type 2 DM, chronic kidney disease, patients undergoing hemodialysis, and solid organ transplant patients were significantly associated with patients not receiving appropriate antibiotics. The length of hospitalization was significantly prolonged in the cohort not receiving appropriate antibiotics.

Conclusion:

We have demonstrated the rate of CDI and associated risk factors to guide clinicians in implementing appropriate treatment to reduce the length of hospitalization in these patients.
A Cross-Sectional Study of the Olfactory Fossa in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ominde Beryl Shitandi , Ikubor Joyce Ekeme , Iju Wilson Josiah , Igbigbi Patrick Sunday
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Evaluation of the olfactory fossa (OF) before endoscopic sinus surgery is important in minimizing inadvertent penetration into the anterior cranial fossa. This study assessed the depth of the OF using computed tomography (CT) images of adult Nigerians.

Materials and Methods:

Cranial CT images were obtained from the database of the radiological unit of a referral center in Delta State, Nigeria, after ethical clearance. The images belonged to 137 female and 199 male adults aged ≥20 years. The depth of OF was measured as the perpendicular distance between the cribriform plate (CP) inferiorly to the superior end of the lateral lamella of the CP on coronal sections. The fossae were classified as Keros Type I (0.1–0.39 cm), Type II (0.4–0.79 cm), and Type III (>0.8 cm). Data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23. Side and gender comparisons of the depth were evaluated using the Student'st-test, while the variations in the OF types were assessed using the Chi-square test. These comparisons were regarded significant whenP< 0.05.

Results:

The mean OF depth was larger in males (0.543 ± 0.183 cm) than in females (0.527 ± 0.169 cm) (P= 0.018). The prevalence of symmetrical (64.9%) and asymmetrical (35.1%) OF showed significant sex differences (P< 0.05). Type II OF was the most common (77.2%), followed by Type I (15.8%) and Type III (7%).

Conclusion:

The presence of the deep (Type III) and asymmetric OF in the patients studied emphasizes the importance of their preoperative radiological identification to minimize complications.
Clinical Course and Outcome of Stroke Patients at a Tertiary Health Care Center during SARS-COV-2 Pandemic in North India
Authors: Atam Virendra , Kumar Satish , Rahul Kumar , Kumar Bhupendra , Gupta Harish , Sonkar Satyendra Kumar , Patel Munna Lal , Kumar Amit , Singh Anshu , Yadav Ambuj
Published: May 2024

Background:

SARS-COV-2 is primarily a respiratory illness. However, beyond respiratory illness and associated acute and long-term medical complications, it manifests as stroke, including acute ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. Clinical evidence reported the occurrence of both venous and arterial thromboembolic complications in SARS-COV-2 positive patients due to hypercoagulable state, hyperinflammatory response, cardiomyopathy, and endothelial inflammation.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective, single-center cohort study, which includes confirmed SARS-COV-2-positive patients hospitalized between March 2021 and February 2022. Clinical and biochemical data were analyzed. Noncontrast computed tomography of the brain was performed to assess the area and type of stroke.

Results:

Among all the included 703 patients with SARS-COV-2, 42 patients developed stroke. SARS-COV-2 patients who developed stroke were older and had multiple comorbidities. Patients had higher quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA) score on hospitalization (P < 0.05), higher in-hospital mortality, and had poor clinical outcomes (P < 0.0001). In multivariate regression analysis, there were higher odds of in-hospital mortality linked with higher qSOFA scores (odds ratio 4.47, 95% confidence interval 1.21–16.5; P = 0.025). SARS-COV-2 patients developing stroke had high total leukocyte counts, high neutrophil counts, low platelet counts, low lymphocyte counts, raised C-reactive protein, raised ferritin levels, raised interleukin-6, raised fibrinogen, and D-dimer as compared to those without stroke.

Conclusion:

Patients with SARS-COV-2 who developed stroke had more severe clinical symptoms, poor clinical outcomes, and higher in-hospital mortality rates compared to those without stroke.
Novel Curved Tongue Depressor for the Easier Insertion of Supraglottic Airway Devices
Authors: Sarbadhikari Sohini , Sarbadhikari Anindya
Published: May 2024

Background:

The i gel™ is a single use supraglottic airway management device used in anesthesia delivery. However, the insertion of the i gel™ has been associated with challenges, particularly related to the tongue obstructing the procedure. Currently available straight tongue depressors designed for awake patients in a sitting position are ineffective for unconscious or anesthetized patients who lack tongue control. Anesthetists resort to using fingers to control the tongue, leading to drawbacks such as messiness, injury risks, and hygiene concerns.

Aims and Objectives:

To address these issues, a curved tongue depressor has been proposed.

Materials and Methods:

Unlike conventional flat tongue depressors, the curved design conforms to the natural shape of the tongue, offering better control. This tongue depressor is specifically shaped to gently push the tongue, facilitating smooth i gel™ insertion without adversely affecting oral structures.

Results:

The dimensions are aligned with the i gel™, and the prototype’s curvature resembles a Macintosh laryngoscope blade 3.

Conclusions:

This study highlights the need for an alternative solution to effectively depress the tongue, ensuring hygiene and minimizing injury risks during airway management procedures.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Health-Care Workers in India
Authors: Gopichandran Lakshman , Choudhary Mamta , D'Souza Preethy , Venkatesan Latha , Srinivasan Muthuvenkatachalam , Anupama D. S. , Kumar Nand , Rai Sanjay K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Public health emergencies are known to affect mental health and well-being at the individual (anxiety, loneliness) and societal level (income loss, reduced access to services). The socioeconomic and health-care impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are unprecedented with worldwide economic loss, closure of business activities, travel restrictions, social distancing, quarantine and isolation, fear of shortage of basic needs, and rapid spread of mental health problems.

Materials and Methods:

Qualitative phenomenological research with the overall aim to explore the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers in India was undertaken in a selected tertiary care hospital, in India. Qualitative in-depth interview was conducted to elucidate the mental health issues and problems of healthcare workers as experienced by them. We used phenomenological methodology to conduct in-depth face-to-face interview to focus on individual versions of experience combined with thematic analysis techniques for analyzing and framing the research data. Thematic analysis was carried out on data collected from 29 healthcare workers from different disciplines such as doctors, nurses, laboratory technician, paramedics, and operation theatre technicians.

Results:

Health-care workers reported various psychosocial issues and problems that they have experienced from the onset of COVID-19. From the analysis, we have generated three overarching themes, each with five subthemes.

Conclusion:

The study concludes that the health-care workers exposed to pandemic situation are vulnerable for a range of mental health issues from distress to sleep disturbances, fear and anxiety to social isolation and stigma, and loss of hope to helplessness.
A Comprehensive Update on Crown-Lengthening Procedures with New Concepts and Inputs
Authors: Baghele Om Nemichand
Published: May 2024

A majority of periodontal procedures performed today are related with clinical crown extension for esthetic or functional needs related to varied etiologies. The concepts and understanding about any particular treatment keep evolving and further refinements happen with each passing year. The objective of the review is to put forth the various new innovative inputs and concepts regarding crown-lengthening procedures (CLPs) as envisioned by the author and provide a relevant review on various surgical procedures. To the extent possible, a retrospective evaluation of the available literature on CLPs and associated treatment modalities were undertaken. Personal evaluations based on a cumulative understanding of various clinical situations being presented for CLPs across many years were instrumental in writing this review. A new perspective on need-based area-specific CLPs is presented in the review which can be appropriated with any presenting clinical scenario. The review also proposes a new categorization of apically repositioned flaps in multiple types, which may expand our surgical options. A new treatment algorithm based on proposed residual attached gingiva is introduced. The review also deals with a modified proposal for the restorative considerations and a CLP format for record keeping. The scope of CLPs is really wide and refinements in the treatment modalities are need of the hour. The expansion of CLP concept and innovative inputs will definitely appeal to an astute clinician.
Religiosity and Religious Coping among Outpatients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Inechi McDonald C. , Onu Justus U. , Achor Justin U. , Ubochi Vincent N.
Published: May 2024

Background:

There are burgeoning data on the beneficial and deleterious effects of religion on health, especially, mental health worldwide. This complex relationship between religious variables and outcome in patients with schizophrenia is yet to be robustly explored among Africans. This study aimed to determine the relationship between religious variables (i.e., religious coping and orientation) and outcome variables (e.g., disease severity and psychosocial functioning).

Materials and Methods:

The study was a cross-sectional study done at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria. A total of 422 outpatients who met the stringent criteria for schizophrenia were recruited into the study over a study period of 18 weeks. Standard instruments were used to measure religious coping (Brief Religious Coping-Brief—RCOPE), religious orientation (Religious Orientation Scale-Revised—ROS-R), disease severity (The Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale), and psychosocial functioning (Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale). A multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine the religious variables that predicted disease severity and psychosocial functioning.

Results:

Religiosity and religious coping variables were not significant predictors of symptom severity among patients with schizophrenia. However, negative religious coping was a significant predictor of poor psychosocial functioning (t = −2.23, P = 0.02, β = −0.28), whereas high score in intrinsic religiosity was a predictor of good psychosocial functioning (t = 3.32, P = 0.001, β = 0.27).

Conclusion:

Findings from this study support the vast majority of research that suggests that religiosity and religious coping have diverse effects on clinical and functional outcomes.
Evaluation of the Effects of Emotional and Violence-Related Genes in Athletes
Authors: Bozaslan Buse Sabiha , Yükseloglu Emel Hülya
Published: May 2024

Investigation of the human genome involves the examination of many factors such as gene function, structural features of the genome, chromatin arrangement, recombination rate, and mutation to accurately understand its complex relationship with physiology and diseases. With the sequencing of the human genome, there is an increasing number of studies investigating the influence of genes during the development of behavior and personality traits. Studies show that complex behavior and traits are regulated by multiple genes. In this sense, genes that affect the dopamine pathway are studied in relation to the field of neuroscience. Studies on sports genetics include all of the studies in this field, such as the identification of genes that affect athletic performance, the elucidation of the mechanisms of action of these genes, and the determination of predispositions in terms of athletic performance. Considering the factors that determine success in sports, it is of great importance to create training and nutrition programs suitable for genetic structure not only in individual sports but also in team sports. This study will be presented as a review of the associations in the literature about catechol-O-methyltransferase, 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter, and monoamine oxidase, known in the literature as candidate genes that affect the personality and behavioral characteristics of athletes and are especially related to aggression.
In silico Characterization of Predominant Genes Involved in Early Onset of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Sachdeva Punya , Ahmad Faizan
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a predominant neurodegenerative disorder and one of the most prevalent forms of dementia, affecting 35 million people worldwide. The neuropathologic characteristics of this disorder show extracellular aggregation of amyloid plaques composed of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides and the presence of hyperphosphorylated tau protein leading to the formation of neurofibrillary tangle inside the neurons. Some of the significant clinical presentations of AD patients include memory decline, trouble in speech, personality alterations, gait imbalance, and mood changes. A tremendous core of genetics is involved in the prevalence of AD. The three vital genes such as amyloid precursor protein (APP), presenilin-1 (PSEN1), and presenilin-2 (PSEN2) have a definite association with AD. The objective of this study was to characterize these genes, which are immensely relevant in health-care practices and the formation of personalized medications.

Materials and Methods:

The characterization of genes has been done using several databases such as the National Center for Biotechnology Information, GeneCards, Human Protein Atlas, tissue expression database, and protein modeling server – Swiss-model.

Results:

As a result, we got the genomic and subcellular location of genes. Furthermore, we got the expression concentration of proteins in tissues, three-dimensional protein structures using amino acid sequences, string connection with various proteins, features of genes, and the protein encoded by it.

Conclusion:

We reach the conclusion that protein expression of APP is high in the brain, spinal canal, liver, lungs, and small and large intestine. PSEN1 concentration of expression is high in the brain and spinal, whereas PSEN2 concentration of expression is high in the liver, lungs, brain, and intestine.
Poroid Hidradenoma Presenting as a Malignant Neoplasm
Authors: Olitoquit Katrina Doctor , Gutierrez-Villaroman Elaine Marie , Gulmatico-Flores Zharlah
Published: May 2024

Poroid hidradenoma is a rare adnexal neoplasm that presents with slow-growing solitary dermal or subcutaneous nodules with pink, red, or blue coloration. Malignant transformation has been reported in about 1%; however, clinical and histologic characteristics may present similarly with malignant neoplasms. A 60-year-old, Filipino, female presented with a 1-month history of a solitary, brownish-black papule on the right cheek progressing to a translucent friable nodule with associated bleeding after minimal trauma. The patient was initially assessed as a case of basal cell carcinoma due to its rapid growth. Hence, the patient was referred to a dermatologic surgeon for biopsy. Poroid hidradenoma was confirmed histologically and was managed with local excision. Poroid hidradenoma presenting with rapid growth is a very rare occurrence.
A case–control study to evaluate the role of mean platelet volume and platelet distribution width in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Sundari Meenatchi , Hanifah Mohamed , Kotasthane Dhananjay S. , Jayasingh K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ischemic stroke is known to be one of the foremost causes of long-term disability and death, and platelets play a pivotal role in its pathophysiology. However, the platelet indices having a role in ischemic stroke are not routinely reported in the available literature.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to evaluate the potential role of mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) in the development of ischemic stroke, especially in the South Indian region.

Materials and Methods:

This case–control study was conducted on 80 patients who were broadly divided into two groups: the case group (patients with ischemic stroke) and the control group (patients without ischemic stroke). Platelet indices were measured using Mindray BC-5200 auto hematology analyzer, and the results were analyzed using Student's t-test and Wilcoxon rank-sum Test.

Results:

There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.001) in the MPV and PDW values between the two groups. The difference between the area under the curve for both MPV and PDW was also found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001) in the receiver operating characteristic curve. However, the differences in the values of MPV and PDW across different age groups, genders, and various comorbid conditions were not found to be significant.

Conclusion:

The elevated platelet indices may be associated with the development of ischemic stroke. The MPV and PDW can be prospective biochemical markers for predicting the onset of ischemic stroke.
The knowledge, acceptance, and practice of exclusive breastfeeding among caregivers seen in a pediatric outpatient department and immunization clinic
Authors: Mohammed Abdulsalam , Aliyu Ibrahim
Published: May 2024

Background:

Feeding a newborn infant with his or her mother's breast milk only or from a wet nurse without giving other liquids up to the age of 6 months is called exclusive breastfeeding (EBF). The promotion of EBF for the first 6 months of infant's life is the most effective way to reduce morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and medium-income countries. Despite several efforts to promote EBF, its practice has remained poor in many Sub-Saharan African countries including Nigeria. EBF practice is to a large extent influenced by the maternal knowledge and attitudes as well as sociodemographic and cultural factors.

Objective:

To determine the knowledge, acceptance, and practice of EBF among caregivers in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study involving mothers who were currently breastfeeding at the time of the study or who had stopped breastfeeding not later than 2 years. Questionnaires were administered to breastfeeding mothers or fathers who knew the breastfeeding attitude of their wives during visits to the outpatient unit or immunization clinic. The age, sex, educational status, occupation, awareness, understanding of EBF, acceptance, practice, and benefits of EBF, and distance from health facility were explored from the caregivers.

Results:

Two hundred and seventy caregivers were studied of which 30 (11.1%) were male and 240 (88.9%) were female. The male-to-female ratio was 1:8 and the age ranges from 19 to 60 years with a mean of 29.4 and standard deviation of ±7.36. Majority of the caregivers (134, 49.6%) had tertiary level of education, while 79 (29.3%) had secondary education. Majority of the caregivers had good awareness and perception of EBF (77% and 51.5%, respectively). The EBF practice rate among the respondents was 68.52%. Caregivers with tertiary and secondary levels of education had good awareness and perception of EBF (χ
2 = 48.628, P = 0.000; and χ2 = 49.106, P = 0.000, respectively). They also had good acceptance and practice of EBF (χ
2 = 35.897, P = 0.000; and (χ
2 = 17.999, P = 0.001, respectively). There were more awareness and perception of EBF among health workers and teachers (χ
2 = 33.972, P = 0.000; and (χ
2 = 12.925, P = 0.005, respectively). They also accepted and practiced EBF significantly (χ
2 = 16.867, P = 0.001; and χ2 = 16.736, P = 0.001). Proximity to health facility had a significant impact on awareness, acceptance, and practice of EBF by the caregivers (χ
2 = 17.391, P = 0.002; χ
2 = 14.263, P = 0.007; and χ
2 = 9.802, P = 0.044, respectively).

Conclusion:

Educational level, occupation, and proximity to health facility have positive impact on awareness, perception, acceptance, and practice of EBF among caregivers in Kano. Therefore, there is need to educate and empower women and make health facilities accessible to them to support, promote, and protect EBF in our communities.
Comparison of plasma lipid profiles and atherogenic indices among hypertensives with or without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Olamoyegun Michael Adeyemi , Ala Oluwabukola Ayodele , Iwuala Sandra Ozozehio , Fawale Bimbola Michael
Published: May 2024

Background:

Several atherogenic indices derived from the lipid profiles are postulated to better detect dyslipidemias and predict the risk of having cardiovascular events even in the presence of insignificant changes in individual lipid parameters.

Objective:

To compare the lipid ratios and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) to conventional atherogenic indices among hypertensive type 2 diabetics to hypertensive nondiabetes (HND) controls.

Materials and Methods:

A case–control study in which 210 participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus with hypertension (hypertensive-diabetic [HD]) compared with 150 (n = 155) hypertensive without diabetes (HND) with similar ages were enrolled. Blood samples for fasting lipid profile were collected and analyzed, and the following indices and ratios were calculated: (TC/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol [HDL-C]), (low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol [LDL-C]/HDL-C), (HDL-C/LDL-C), and AIP. The indices were compared in both the participants and control group.

Results:

There was no significant difference in the clinical characteristics of HD compared to the HND except the systolic blood pressure, weight, and HDL-C which were lower in the HND group. The frequency of dyslipidemia was found to be significantly higher in the HD group except elevated LDL-C in males (25.8% vs. 17.4%, χ
2 = 0.055, respectively). Furthermore, all the lipid ratios, except (Castelli risk index II [CRI– II] were found to be significantly different among HD as compared to HND group (P = 0.002, P = 0.045, respectively).

Conclusions:

This study concludes that Nigerians with both type 2 diabetes and hypertension have worse dyslipidemia and abnormal lipid ratios compared to those with only hypertension.
Incidental sinus findings in brain MRI for suspected intracranial disease
Authors: Ikubor Joyce Ekeme , Okolugbo Nekwu E. , Ogholoh Oghenetejiri D. , Kogha Nicholas , Bemigho-Odonmeta Amenaghawon P.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

The incidental finding of a paranasal sinus (PNS) abnormality on imaging may lead to early detection of sinus pathologies. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable tool for evaluation of the PNSs.

Objectives:

The objectives were to determine the prevalence, site, and type of abnormalities in the PNSs of a Nigerian population who had brain MRI for suspected intracranial disease and unrelated sinus disease.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional design was adopted for this study. Radiology request forms, images, and reports of consecutive patients referred for brain MRI for suspected intracranial disease from January 2018 to December 2019 were studied. Abnormalities detected were complete mucosal opacification, mucosal thickening, collection with air–fluid level, and retention cyst/polyp.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences for Windows version 22.0 (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA).

Results:

Four hundred and seventy-nine patients were referred for brain MRI between January 2018 and December 2019. The prevalence of sinus abnormality detected incidentally was 26.7%. The maxillary sinus was the most frequently involved sinus. Fluid collection with air–fluid level was the most common abnormality. There was no significant relationship between the sinus abnormalities with age and sex.

Conclusions:

The prevalence rate of abnormal sinus findings on brain MRI is 26.7% in this study, buttressing that morphological changes in the PNSs are frequently encountered incidentally on imaging; hence, there is a need to obtain a relevant history of sinus pathology from patients undergoing brain imaging to aid prompt diagnosis of subclinical sinus disease and achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes.
О мере КАМ-торов в окрестности сепаратрисы
Authors: Medvedev Anton Gennad'evich
Published: May 2024

Рассмотрим интегрируемую по Лиувиллю гамильтонову систему с $n$ степенями свободы. Предположим, что слоение фазового пространства на инвариантные лагранжевы $n$-мерные торы вырождается на $(2n-1)$-мерном особом подмногообразии $\mathbb{W}$, образованном асимптотическими многообразиями $(n-1)$-мерных гиперболических торов. При малом порядка $\varepsilon$ возмущении системы интегрируемость, как правило, исчезает, но согласно КАМ-теории большинство $n$-мерных инвариантных торов выживает. Динамику на дополнении $C$ к указанному торическому множеству принято ассоциировать с хаосом.
В статье исследуется мера множества точек, являющегося пересечением окрестности многообразия $\mathbb{W}$ c множеством $C$. При естественных предположениях эта мера имеет порядок $\sqrt \varepsilon$.
Этот результат дополняет и обобщает оценки меры множества $C$ вдали от многообразия $\mathbb{W}$, полученные в работах Н. В. Сванидзе, А. И. Нейштадта и Ю. Пeшеля.
Библиография: 13 названий.
Micro-Morphological and Proximate Analysis of Sour Sop (Annona muricata L. of Annonaceae) Harvested from a Tertiary Institution Campus in the Niger Delta Region Nigeria
Authors: Wahua C. , Ogan I.
Published: May 2024

This research investigated the micro-morphological and proximate analysis of sour sop (Annona muricata L. of Annonaceae), harvested from a tertiary institution campus in the Niger Delta Region. It is a perennial small tree commonly known as sour sop. Plant sample was collected fresh within the University of Port Harcourt Campus, (4053130.1211North, and 6055139.611East). The proximate analysis was done following the methods of AOAC Official methods of Analysis. The result revealed that A. muricata is glabrous and reach up to 8 ± 1 m tall. The petiolate foliar organs are simple, oblong, having acuminate apex, acute base with parted margins, pinnately veined and opposite in phyllotaxy; measuring up to 12.5 ± 4.5 cm in length and 4.6 ± 1.38 cm in width. The fruit is oval berry containing whitish pulp embellished with black shiny seeds, and spinous greenish fruit cover. The foliar epidermal study revealed presence of polygonal cells, trichomes and paracytic stomata which are amphistomatic. The proximate study showcased the following compositions: 9.27 ± 1.0 Carbohydrate (%); 5.38 ± 1.00 Protein (%); 2.00 ± 0.90 Lipid (%); 85.84 ± 1.74 Moisture (%) content; 0.58 ± 0.11 Fiber (%) and 0.89 ± 0.01 Ash (%). These information would assist for further delimitation of the species.
Evaluating the Nature of Constraints of Land Delivery Process for Housing Development in Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Chrinus A. E. , Okoye C. O. , Ukah C.
Published: May 2024

A combination of a growing urban population, lack of an efficient mortgage system, poverty, increasing construction costs, high inflation and declining household income, have made access to decent and affordable housing difficult for many Nigerians. Hence, the aim of this paper is to investigate the nature of constraints of land delivery process for housing development in Taraba State, Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques after acquiring data from primary and secondary types and sources of data. From the results, 20.5% pointed out that complex land tenure system was a constraint to land delivery process for housing development in Taraba State, 33% of the agreed that insufficient infrastructure constitutes the nature of constraint while 20.2% of the population agreed that lack of coordination constitutes to the nature of constraint while the remaining 26.2% maintained that insecurity is the bane of the nature of constraint of land delivery process for housing development in the study area. Needless to say, majority of respondents agreed alongside with responses from questionnaire that nature of constraints of land delivery process negatively impact on housing development in the study area. Also, the Chi-Square p-value (Sig) was .000 which implies that there is a significant impact of nature of constraint of land delivery on housing development in Taraba State. Based on the findings, the study recommends that insecurity should be eliminated as it contributes largely to land delivery process as farmers/herders conflicts, kidnapping, communal crises are rampant in the state. Also, Government at all levels especially Taraba State government should look into the land tenure system practiced in the state in order to checkmate its complexities.
Effect of Environmental Immunity on Mathematical Modeling of Malaria Transmission between Vector and Host Population
Authors: Olutimo A. L. , Mbah N. U. , Abass F. A. , Adeyanju A. A.
Published: May 2024

The effect of environmental immunity on the mathematical modeling of malaria transmission between vector and host population is investigated in this study using appropriate standard procedures. We develop a mathematical SIR-SI model incorporating environmental immunity parameters to describe the dynamics transmission rates of both humans and vectors with the assumption that an individual develops environmental immunity on the infected and recovered classes. The model is analyzed by the reproduction number derived using the next-generation matrix method and its stability is checked by Jacobian matrix. We demonstrate that the disease-free equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable if  (  – reproduction number) and is unstable if . Numerical simulation indicates that, with acquired environmental immunity due to nutrition and medicinal herbs, the spread of malaria can be significantly impacted by increasing the recovered class and lowering the infected class.
Occurrence of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase and Quinolone Resistance Genes among Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Poultry, Domestic Pigs and Environ in Msimbazi River Basin in Tanzania
Authors: Kimera Z. I. , Mgaya F. X. , Mshana S. E. , Karimuribo E. D. , Matee M. I. N.
Published: May 2024

We investigated the occurrence and distribution of genes encoding for extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production and quinolone resistance among multi-drug resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from poultry, domestic pigs, and environment samples in the Msimbazi basin in Tanzania. A total of 130 non-duplicated isolates obtained from the poultry (n = 40), domestic pigs (n = 52) and environment (n = 38) were screened for ESBL genes (blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaSHV) and plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes (qnrA, qnrB, qnrS, qnrC, qnrD, qepA, and aac (6)-Ib-cr) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The most commonly detected ESBL genes were blaCTX-M (31.5%, n=41) and blaTEM (10%, n=13), while quinolone resistance genes were qnrS (27.7%, n=36), qnrB (6.9%, n=9) and aac (6)-lb-cr (5.4%, n=7). ESBL gene blaSHV and quinolone resistance genes qnrA, qnrC, and qepA were not detected in any of the isolates. Resistance genes were highest in isolates from the environmental samples (86%, n=33), followed by poultry 72.5% (n=29), and domestic pigs 21.4%, (n=9). Overall, the most frequent resistance gene was qnrS, followed by blaCTX-M and blaTEM. About 17.7% (n=23) of the E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates depicted co-existence of ESBL and quinolone resistance genes. One Health interventional measures, involving different disciplines across human, animal, and environmental sectors, are needed to control the spread of antimicrobial resistance in the Msimbazi River Basin in Tanzania.
Preliminary characterization of PEGylated nanostructured lipid carriers as potential drug delivery system
Authors: Ugwu A. A. , Nnamani P. O. , Attama A. A.
Published: May 2024

This study is a preliminary characterization of PEGylated nanostructured lipid carriers as potential drug delivery system using appropriate standard methods.  DSC traces showed that PEG 4000 was the most crystalline of all the lipids and Softisan® 154 was the least crystalline due to high enthalpy (-36mW/mg) and low enthalpy (-8.9 mW/mg) respectively. It was noticeable that the endothermic peak heights of PEGylated lipid matrix became smaller compared with the original starting lipid. All demonstrated good potentials for use as nanostructured lipid carrier drug delivery system but LMA, LMB and LMC turned to be the preferred in other of better thermal activity. SEM analysis revealed evidence of coarse structure amorphous than the individual lipidic systems. By implication showed increase drug loading capacity, it follows that that PEGylated nanostructured might be employed as NLCs carriers to serve as alternative transdermal delivery systems to improve the solubility of some poorly soluble drugs.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the development of global health law: managing crises or achieving structural changes?
Authors: Burci Gian Luca
Published: May 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global crisis with multiple causes, effects and consequences going beyond its immediate health impact. On the one hand, environmental drivers may have facilitated the spillover of the virus to humans, while on the other the pandemic has affected most areas of international relations and revealed a troubling lack of equity and solidarity within and among countries. However, what was the real crisis? Framing COVID-19 as a health crisis brought the negotiation of a new pandemic agreement into WHO as a crisis measure to fill the gaps left by the International Health Regulations and reduce the risk of future pandemics. International law has been defined as a “discipline of crisis”, evolving through responses to violent shocks, and COVID-19 seems to confirm this view. However, international law has also been shaped by a counternarrative highlighting the structural causes of crises and addressing them rather than the symptoms. This historical tension has negatively affected the negotiation of the pandemic agreement, with Global South countries moving beyond a crisis approach and demanding “equity” through structural changes to the pharmaceutical market, support for self-reliance in pharmaceutical manufacturing and guarantees of financing. This fault line also has consequences for global health law in general, in particular because the scarcity of dedicated global health instruments and the limited mandate of WHO questions what issues can be regulated through that organisation and which will require the interplay of different institutions and regimes, pointing to regime complexity as the appropriate conceptual tool to undertake that analysis.
Efficient Algorithms for Finite $\mathbb{Z}$-Algebras
Authors: Kreuzer Martin , Walsh Florian
Published: May 2024

For a finite $\mathbb{Z}$-algebra $R$, i.e., for a $\mathbb{Z}$-algebra which
is a finitely generated $\mathbb{Z}$-module, we assume that $R$ is explicitly
given by a system of $\mathbb{Z}$-module generators $G$, its relation module
${\rm Syz}(G)$, and the structure constants of the multiplication in $R$. In
this setting we develop and analyze efficient algorithms for computing
essential information about $R$. First we provide polynomial time algorithms
for solving linear systems of equations over $R$ and for basic ideal-theoretic
operations in $R$. Then we develop ZPP (zero-error probabilitic polynomial
time) algorithms to compute the nilradical and the maximal ideals of
0-dimensional affine algebras $K[x_1,\dots,x_n]/I$ with $K=\mathbb{Q}$ or
$K=\mathbb{F}_p$. The task of finding the associated primes of a finite
$\mathbb{Z}$-algebra $R$ is reduced to these cases and solved in ZPPIF (ZPP
plus one integer factorization). With the same complexity, we calculate the
connected components of the set of minimal associated primes ${\rm
minPrimes}(R)$ and then the primitive idempotents of $R$. Finally, we prove
that knowing an explicit representation of $R$ is polynomial time equivalent to
knowing a strong Gr\"obner basis of an ideal $I$ such that $R =
\mathbb{Z}[x_1,\dots,x_n]/I$.
Description of Emotion Regulation and Attachment Patterns of Cadets at Boarding Maritime Colleges
Authors: Pujiarti Nunik , Widhiastuti Hardani , Winta Mulya Virgonita I.
Published: May 2024

Boarding universities require students to follow the existing rules quite strictly, starting from waking up in the morning until going back to sleep. Students who live in dormitories must immediately adjust even though it feels difficult. The demands of the new environment must be responded to wisely. Individuals who have a tough personality will be able to adapt to the demands of a new environment wisely. This research aims to look more closely at the emotional regulation of students who live in dormitories in terms of the attachment patterns they develop before becoming students and during their time as students. This research uses descriptive qualitative research methods, trying to explore the description of students' emotional regulation during life in the dormitory and the impacts that arise. The results of this research reveal that there are four types of attachment patterns with different self-regulation, namely secure, bound, inbound and anxious attachment patterns. The conclusion from the results of this research is that a secure attachment pattern will give rise to positive emotional regulation. Positive emotional regulation needs to be developed so that students are able to undergo education while in the dormitory with excellent mental health, are able to adapt to their social environment well, are more productive and in the future these individuals will be able to face challenges in their lives better. This research continues research expressed by Fitri (2023), namely that the stressors most often experienced by students living in dormitories are intrapersonal stressors at 62.59%. Without mature intrapersonal abilities, it will be difficult for individuals to face the unexpected and establish good relationships with other people
Violence in the Religious Language of Christianity: Historical Analysis of Christian Religious Language Containing Violence as a Source of Critical Theology
Authors: Sariri Meilina Simon
Published: May 2024

Historical fact indicates that the religious language of Christianity is rife with violence. The spiritual language is echoed in such bloody tragedies as war, murder, and punishment. This study aimed to encourage Christianity to understand violent religious language by viewing it in a reflective frame. The study uses qualitative methods to analyze history, so the literature that records the incidents of Christianity's involvement in violence is used. Analysis of the various literature produced two essential things as critical reflections on Christian theology. Based on historical facts of Christianity's involvement in violence, Christianity was at one time in a phase creating its doctrine (violence is not God's will), and Christianity played God (God did not engage in violence). That discovery is supposed to be part of a critical vehement from a violent point of view.