bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: A Community-Based Study in Dumai City, Riau Province, Indonesia
Authors: Sugiri Al Habib Burki , Yenny Yenny
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND: Indonesia’s lowest COVID-19 vaccine coverage of 6.5% is found in Teluk Makmur Village, Dumai City, Riau province. The success of the COVID-19 vaccination program is determined by vaccine hesitancy, which comprises numerous and presumably complex factors that vary over time and between countries or between regions of one given country.

AIM: The aim of the study was to determine COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy prevalence and influencing factors in the community.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to November 2021 at Teluk Makmur Village, Dumai City, Riau Province, Indonesia, involving 149 respondents aged 25–93 years and using a questionnaire on respondents’ sociodemographic characteristics and their opinions on possible COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy factors were analyzed by multivariable logistic regression (p ˂ 0.05).

RESULTS: COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was present in 51.7% of respondents. Multivariable logistic regression findings: Comorbidities, fear of dying from COVID-19, feelings of shame/stigmatization if known to be infected with COVID-19 were not significantly associated with vaccine hesitancy. Education and distrust of government COVID-19 related policy were significantly associated with vaccine hesitancy.

CONCLUSION: Half of respondents were hesitant about COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy factors consisted of education and distrust of government policy.
Health Risk Assessment on Exposure to PM2.5-bound PAHs from an Urban-industrial Area in Rayong City, Thailand
Authors: Kawichai Sawaeng , Bootdee Susira
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND: A city's industrial area's air quality has become a major priority. PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are one of the most common pollutants in urban-industrial area, and can be linked to health problems.
AIM: This study aims to 1) investigate PM2.5 and PAHs emitted from roadside area (RS) and industrial estate (IE) in Rayong city 2) assess the inhalation of PM2.5 and PAHs on the human health of the age group.
METHODS: PM2.5-bound PAHs were investigated and thier carcinogenic risk was evalued in this study. PM2.5 samples were collected on quartz filters contained in a mini-volume air sampler and analyzed for PAHs by GC-MS.
RESULTS: The average PM2.5 concentrations at RS and IE were 43.3±26.8 and 40.4±21.7 µg/m3, while the values of total PAHs in both sites were 1.68±1.53 and 1.34±1.22 ng/m3, respectively. However, it was found that the PM2.5 and PAHs values were not significantly different (p>0.05). The results revealed that the individual lifetime cancer risk (Ric) of PM2.5 values for children and adults at both sites indicated acceptable cancer risk (10-6 to10-4). According to the incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) values of PAHs for different age groups, exposure to PAHs in PM2.5 through the inhalation pathway was a negligible (<10-6).
CONCLUSION: As a result, the PM2.5 concentrations have substantial implications for Rayong city’s environmental management and protection, relating to car emissions and coal combustion.
Papilio hermione Linnaeus, type species of Hipparchia Fabricius (Lepidoptera, Satyrinae): restoring stability to the application of these names
Authors: Russell Peter J. C. , Vane-Wright Richard I.
Published: September 2022

This paper discusses three problems concerning the Woodland Grayling,Hipparchia fagiScopoli, 1763, with respect to the identity and application of the junior namePapilio hermioneLinnaeus, 1764. In 1977, the late Otakar Kudrna designated a specimen of the Rock Grayling,Hipparchia alcyone[Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775, to become the lectotype ofPapilio hermione– as a result of whichhermionesupplantedalcyoneas the senior epithet for this species. BecauseP. hermioneis the nominal type species ofHipparchiaFabricius, 1807, Kudrna’s action rendered this a genus based on a misidentified species. Third, while a majority of lepidopterists have ignored Kudrna’s action and continue to apply the nameH. alcyoneto the Rock Grayling, and still regardP. hermioneas a junior subjective synonym ofH. fagi, the formal nomenclature for the Rock Grayling has become unstable because a large minority have nonetheless accepted Kudrna’s lectotype designation and all that follows from it. It is demonstrated here that no syntypes ofPapilio hermione(orPapilio fagi) have survived; consequently, Kudrna’s lectotype designation forP. hermioneis invalid. By designation of a single specimen of the Woodland Grayling as neotype for bothP. fagiandP. hermione, the two names are rendered objectively synonymous, thereby restoring stability to the species name for the Rock Grayling (asHipparchia alcyone), and to the application ofPapilio hermione(=Hipparchia fagi) as nominal type species of the generic nameHipparchia.
Determination of some edible oils adulteration with paraffin oil using infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Bunaciu Andrei A. , Fleschin Serban , Aboul-Enein Hassan Y.
Published: September 2022

The spectroscopy of molecular vibrations using mid-infrared or near-infrared techniques was used more and more to characterize different compounds, including edible oil, in order to monitor any changes and to detect fraudulent modifications. This article presents a new method for quantitative adulteration of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) or corn germ oil (CGO) with a mineral oil, such as paraffin oil (PO). A Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometric method, using ATR spectra, was developed for the rapid, direct measurement of edible oils adulteration. The results indicate the efficiency of the proposed method for the detection of paraffin oil in adulteration of EVOO and CGO with RSD (< 3.0%).

Graphical abstract:
Therapeutic approach of glutathione/glutathione peroxidase-4 axis modulation in the light of ferroptosis
Authors: Georgiev Tsvetelin , Hadzhibozheva Petya , Karamalakova Yanka , Georgieva Ekaterina , Perinkadakatt Favas , Ilinov Zlatomir , Petkov Krasimir , Ananiev Julian
Published: September 2022

In the 21st century beginning, the evidence of a new type of programmed cell death, different from apoptosis, began to accumulate. In 2012, the ferroptosis concept was officially introduced. It refers to a kind of cell death that is associated with iron accumulation in the cell, impaired redox potential, and ROS increment with concomitant lipid peroxidation. Ferroptosis plays an important role in the pathophysiology of several organ damages such as tumors, neurodegenerative, ischemia-reperfusion, inflammatory diseases, and others. In ferroptosis, the leading mechanism is the glutathione (GSH) depletion and inactivation of Glutathione peroxidase-4 (GPX4), which strongly shifts the oxidative balance in the cell, leading to the activation of certain signalling pathways to induce oxidative death. The article aims to focus attention on the modulation of the GSH/GPX axis as a key factor in the treatment of these diseases.
Acute poisoning in children: Etiology, structure, treatment tactics and outcomes
Authors: Karpushkina Ekaterina S. , Zhdanova Olga A. , Batishcheva Galina A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Acute poisoning is often observed in children and can have serious consequences since it is character­ized by rapid development of symptoms and obvious disfunction of vital organs.

Materials and methods: Retrospective analysis of the case histories of the children with acute poisoning admitted to Voronezh Regional Children’s Clinical Hospital No. 1 in 2016–2019 was carried out. Anamnesis, clinical and lab­oratory studies and effective treatment criteria were entered into electronic spreadsheets and served as the basis for a database on children’s poisoning.

Results and discussion: Analysis of 183 case histories of children with intoxication aged 4 months to 17 years old was performed. Distribution per age showed bimodal peaks at 1–2 years and 13–14 years. Poisoning was accidental in 96.2% of the cases, and 3.8% of the adolescents reported suicide cases. In the group of young children, acute drug poisoning is more frequent in girls (P < 0.05). In the older groups, there is no gender difference in frequency of poisoning cases.

Early call for medical help is typical for the adolescent age group. Correlation between time of help-seeking and chil­dren’s age is statistically significant (correlation coefficient r = 0.38, P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Study of poisoning issue in children will allow to carry out targeted preventive measures to reduce the number of poisoning cases, prevent their consequences and to determine the most rational modus operandi for medical personnel for effective and safe pharmacotherapy.

Graphical abstract:

In pediatric practice, intoxication by poisons and drugs is among the most common reasons for seeking medical help and hospitalization in intensive care units. It is important to study and record dynamics, structure and frequency of acute poisoning with subsequent development of prevention and treatment methods.
Antitumor activity of the novel pyridine derivative
Authors: Ekaterina V. Blinova , Epishkina Anna V. , Tumutolova Oksana M. , Deryabina Olga N. , Skachilova Sofia Ya. , Kudriavtsev Mihail Yu. , Shikh Evgenia V. , Vavilova Olga S. , Gilevskaya Yulia S. , Brykin Gordey V. , Makhrova Anna A. , Blinov Dmirty S.
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The study aim was to explore a toxicological property and antitumor action of the novel pyridine deriv­ative LHT-17-19 in cell culture and on experimental models of lung cancer in mice.

Materials and methods: The study was performed on male and female ICR(CD-1), male BALB/c, male BALB/c nu/nu mice. Pyridine derivative (LHT-17-19) was studied as water-soluble pharmaceutical substance. Acute toxicity was evaluated in groups of 5 animals, and the results were analyzed by Finney. Antitumor and antimetastatic activity was studied in syngeneic and xenograft models of lung cancer in mice.

Results and discussion: LHT-17-19 belongs to class 3 of the toxicity classification of chemicals in accordance with GOST 12.1.007–76. The substance demonstrated an antitumor and antimetastatic property in mice with syngeneic tumor Lewis lung carcinoma as well as on the heterotopic tumor model of non-small cell lung cancer in humanized animals.

Conclusion: LHT-17-19 belongs to class 3 of the toxicity classification of chemicals in accordance with WHO recom­mendation. LHT-17-19 exerts antitumor and antimetastatic property on both syngeneic and patient-derived lung cancer xenograft murine models.

Graphical abstract:
Prosthetic Reconstruction of the Shoulder After Resection of Proximal Humerus Bone Tumor
Authors: Trikoupis Ioannis G. , Savvidou Olga D. , Tsantes Andreas G. , Papadopoulos Dimitrios V. , Goumenos Stavros D. , Vottis Christos , Kaspiris Angelos , Kontogeorgakos Vasileios , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J.
Published: September 2022

Prosthetic reconstruction after wide resection of tumors of the proximal humerus presents a unique challenge. The shoulder is a complex articulation, and patients have high expectations for postoperative function. The goal of this study is to compare functional outcomes, oncologic outcomes, and complication rates for 2 reconstructive methods. Forty patients with proximal humeral tumors were reviewed retrospectively. Proximal humeral endoprosthesis (PHE) was used for 21 patients, and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) was used for 19 patients. Clinical results, oncologic outcomes, and complication rates were assessed. The functional outcomes of the patients were assessed with the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scoring system (MSTS), the shortened version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and shoulder range of motion. The mean follow-up was 62±15 months. Shoulder dislocations occurred among 8 patients with PHE and 1 patient with RSA (
P
=.021). The other complication rates were similar for the 2 groups (
P
<.05). At the latest follow-up, the mean MSTS score was 68±10.3 for those with PHE and 76±7.7 for the patients with RSA (
P
=.72). However, the QuickDASH score was significantly better (
P
=.031) for those with RSA (mean, 19±6.3) compared with patients with PHE (mean, 30±4.8). Additionally, shoulder active abduction and forward flexion were significantly greater for the RSA group (
P
=.04 and
P
=.03, respectively). Five patients had local recurrence. Prosthetic reconstruction after oncologic re-section of the proximal humerus is associated with significant limitation of shoulder range of motion and a high rate of revision surgery. However, in this study, RSA was associated with fewer dislocations, improved Quick-DASH score, and greater abduction and forward flexion compared with PHE. [
Orthopedics
. 2022;45(6):e335–e341.]
Perspectives of Orthopedic Patients on Medical Cannabis: A Survey of More Than 2500 Patients
Authors: Townsend Clay B. , Liss Frederic , Langman Charles , Mazur Donald , Stache Stephen A. , Sharma Saloni , Stolzenberg David S. , Srinivasan Malathy , Pedowitz David , Namdari Surena , Wang Mark L. , Greis Ari C. , Ilyas Asif M.
Published: September 2022

Nationwide perspectives on cannabis have changed dramatically over recent decades. Although cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, medical cannabis (MC) is now legal in most states, and research has continued to show its effectiveness in a variety of medical conditions. However, both perception and acceptance of MC by the general public are evolving and remain poorly understood. Treating patients effectively with these novel therapeutics requires an understanding of the complex interplay of social and legal factors that could affect patient use. This cross-sectional survey study of more than 2500 patients sought to assess current patient perspectives on MC and to investigate factors related to its use that may represent barriers to broader patient use. Most respondents would consider using MC for chronic pain or other medical conditions. Most respondents were aware of the legal status of MC in their state, and 9 of 10 respondents believed that MC should be legal throughout the United States. General public knowledge of the utility of MC is an area needing improvement because older patients were significantly less likely to believe that MC is safe to use or that MC is safer than prescription opioids. As has been reported in previous literature, social stigma and cost appear to remain barriers for patient use of MC. Our findings provide further insight into current patient perspectives on MC, aiding both medical providers and researchers as we continue to provide access to and research MC. [
Orthopedics
. 2022;45(6):e309–e314.]
Comparison of the Functional Optical Zone in Eyes With High Myopia With High Astigmatism After SMILE and FS-LASIK
Authors: Liu Shengtao , Zhang Xiaoxue , Niu Lingling , Yu Zhiqiang , Zhou Xingtao , Zhao Jing
Published: September 2022

PURPOSE:

To compare the functional optical zone (FOZ) in eyes with high myopia with high astigmatism after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and femtosecond laser–assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK).

METHODS:

In total, 45 eyes of 45 patients with high myopia with astigmatism greater than 2.00 diopters (D) who underwent SMILE or FS-LASIK were enrolled. The FOZ, optical zone decentration, and corneal aberrations were analyzed using Scheimpflug imaging. These values were then compared between the two groups 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

No postoperative complications were observed during follow-up. The mean FOZ diameter was 5.03 ± 0.31 mm for the FS-LASIK group and 5.24 ± 0.27 mm for the SMILE group (
P
= .007), corresponding to reductions of 1.18 ± 0.23 and 1.01 ± 0.21 mm, respectively, compared with the programmed optical zone (POZ) (
P
= .013). A significant difference was noted in the FOZ on the short axis between the two groups (
P
= .002), whereas no significant difference was observed on the long axis (
P
= .088). The FOZ area in the FS-LASIK and SMILE groups was 65.39 ± 6.14% and 70.09 ± 5.46% of the POZ area, respectively (
P
= .010). There was no significant difference in decentration between the two groups (0.29 ± 0.13 mm for the FS-LASIK group vs 0.30 ± 0.13 mm for the SMILE group,
P
= .798). A significant increase in spherical aberration was observed in the FS-LASIK group (
P
< .001). However, the induction of vertical coma was higher in the SMILE group than in the FS-LASIK group (
P
= .002).

CONCLUSIONS:

Eyes with high myopia with high astigmatism following SMILE achieved a larger FOZ and less spherical aberration but a larger vertical coma introduction than following FS-LASIK.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2022;38(9):595–601.]
When to Be Concerned About Abnormal Gait: Toe Walking, In-Toeing, Out-Toeing, Bowlegs, and Knock-Knees
Authors: Cao Lisa A. , Wimberly Lane
Published: September 2022

Caregivers are often concerned with their child's gait, especially if it deviates from the development of other children. It is common that parents and grandparents have personal memories of brace wear or orthotic use to correct rotational or alignment difference as young children. Although perceived gait differences are a source of angst for families, many are of minimal functional concern and rarely need intervention.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2022;51(9):e340–e345.]
BO-B&B: A hybrid algorithm based on Bayesian optimization and branch-and-bound for discrete network design problems
Authors: Yin Ruyang , Xing Jiping , Mo Pengli , Zheng Nan , Liu Zhiyuan
Published: September 2022

A discrete network design problem (DNDP) is conventionally formulated as an analytical bi-level programming problem to acquire an optimal network design strategy for an existing traffic network. In recent years, multimodal network design problems have benefited from simulation-based models. The nonconvexity and implicity of bi-level DNDPs make it challenging to obtain an optimal solution, especially for simulation-related models. Bayesian optimization (BO) has been proven to be an effective method for optimizing the costly black-box functions of simulation-based continuous network design problems. However, there are only discrete inputs in DNDPs, which cannot be processed using standard BO algorithms. To address this issue, we develop a hybrid method (BO-B&B) that combines Bayesian optimization and a branch-and-bound algorithm to deal with discrete variables. The proposed algorithm exploits the advantages of the cutting-edge machine-learning parameter-tuning technique and the exact mathematical optimization method, thereby balancing efficiency and accuracy. Our experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms benchmarking discrete optimization heuristics for simulation-based DNDPs in terms of total computational time. Thus, BO-B&B can potentially aid decision makers in mapping practical network design schemes for large-scale networks.
Adjusting non-pharmaceutical interventions based on hospital bed capacity using a multi-operator differential evolution
Authors: Mendoza Victoria May P. , Mendoza Renier , Lee Jongmin , Jung Eunok
Published: September 2022

Without vaccines and medicine, non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing, have been the main strategy in controlling the spread of COVID-19. Strict social distancing policies may lead to heavy economic losses, while relaxed social distancing policies can threaten public health systems. We formulate optimization problems that minimize the stringency of NPIs during the prevaccination and vaccination phases and guarantee that cases requiring hospitalization will not exceed the number of available hospital beds. The approach utilizes an SEIQR model that separates mild from severe cases and includes a parameter $ \mu $ that quantifies NPIs. Payoff constraints ensure that daily cases are decreasing at the end of the prevaccination phase and cases are minimal at the end of the vaccination phase. Using a penalty method, the constrained minimization is transformed into a non-convex, multi-modal unconstrained optimization problem. We solve this problem using the improved multi-operator differential evolution, which fared well when compared with other optimization algorithms. We apply the framework to determine optimal social distancing strategies in the Republic of Korea given different amounts and types of antiviral drugs. The model considers variants, booster shots, and waning of immunity. The optimal $ \mu $ values show that fast administration of vaccines is as important as using highly effective vaccines. The initial number of infections and daily imported cases should be kept minimum especially if the bed capacity is low. In Korea, a gradual easing of NPIs without exceeding the bed capacity is possible if there are at least seven million antiviral drugs and the effectiveness of the drug in reducing severity is at least 86%. Model parameters can be adapted to a specific region or country, or other infectious diseases. The framework can be used as a decision support tool in planning economic policies, especially in countries with limited healthcare resources.
A symbolic computation approach and its application to the Kadomtsev-Petviashvili equation in two (3+1)-dimensional extensions
Authors: Alhejaili Weaam , Elboree Mohammed. K. , Aly Abdelraheem M.
Published: September 2022

This work examines the multi-rogue-wave solutions for the Kadomtsev-Petviashvili (KP) equation in form of two (3+1)-dimensional extensions, which are soliton equations, using a symbolic computation approach. This approach is stated in terms of the special polynomials developed through a Hirota bilinear equation. The first, second, and third-order rogue wave solutions are derived for these equations. The interaction of many rogue waves is illustrated by the multi-rogue waves. The physical explanations and properties of the obtained results are plotted for specific values of the parameters $ \alpha $ and $ \beta $ to understand the physics behind the huge (rogue) wave appearance. The figures are represented in three-dimensional, and the contour plots and the density are shown at different values of parameters. The obtained results are significant for showing the dynamic actions of higher-rogue waves in the deep ocean and nonlinear optical fibers.
Cross-cultural adaptation, validity and rehability of the QUIPA tool: Turkish version
Authors: Tore N.G. , Oskay D. , Satıs H. , Haznedaroglu S.
Published: September 2022

The Quality Indicators for Physiotherapy Management of Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis (QUIPA) is the only patient-reported outcome measure to assess the quality indicators of physiotherapy management of hip/knee osteoarthritis (OA). It consists of 3 subscales and a total of 18 questions. The purpose of this research was to translate and adapt the QUIPA into the Turkish language using a cross-cultural approach as well as test its validity and reliability for Turkish-speaking patients with hip/knee OA. Ninety-two patients with hip/knee OA were enrolled in the research. The cross-cultural adaptation of the QUIPA was performed according to guidelines defined by Beaton et al. Participants completed the QUIPA tool twice at an interval of 7 days. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency were determined by interpreting the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, respectively. Construct validity was tested via exploratory factor analysis. For the first, second, and third subscales and total score of QUIPA, ICC was found to be 0.895, 0.947, 0.665, and 0.925, respectively. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.682, 0.797, 0.593, and 0.812. The Exploratory Factor Analysis demonstrated that the QUIPA tool is based on 3 factors. These results indicate that the Turkish version of the QUIPA has excellent test-retest reliability and good internal consistency. Therefore, the Turkish version of the QUIPA seems to be a valid and reliable tool to assess the quality indicators of physiotherapy management of hip/knee OA in Turkish-speaking patients. It is intended to be used in clinical settings and research works.
Implication and utility of DAS-28 squeeze in rheumatoid arthritis: an Indian experience
Authors: Singh H. , Tanwar V.S. , Kalra A. , Saini A. , Arora S. , Govil N.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to compare and correlate disease activity score including 28 joints counts (DAS-28) Squeeze with DAS-28 and clinical disease activity index (CDAI) to assess disease activity (DA) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. A total of 100 RA patients were included in the study. All subjects were evaluated for disease activity using the DAS-28 Squeeze, DAS-28, and CDAI. Spearman’s rho (ρ) was calculated to determine the correlation between DAS-28 Squeeze, DAS-28, and CDAI. Cross-tabulation was performed to compare and calculate the kappa coefficient for the link between two indices. For each scale, Cronbach’s alpha was also calculated to test dependability. The average age of the study group was 43.9±11.3. The mean scores on the DAS-28 Squeeze, DAS-28, and CDAI were, respectively, 3.58±1.06, 5.06±1.56, and 22.81±14.92. p=0.001 indicated a significant correlation between DAS-28 Squeeze and DAS-28 (ρ=0.986) and CDAI (ρ=0.939) for DAS-28 Squeeze. There was a considerable correlation between all three measures at various DA levels. Cronbach’s alpha for DAS-28 Squeeze, DAS-28, and CDAI were respectively 0.716, 0.663, and 0.734. DAS-28 Squeeze exhibited a substantial positive association with DAS-28 and CDAI for assessing disease activity and appears to be a more useful and reliable method than DAS-28 and CDAI for monitoring disease activity in RA patients.
Prevalence, phenotype and genotype characteristics of antibiotic resistance in coastal beach practitioners of tropical China
Authors: Long Wenfang , Li Tianjiao , Yi Guohui , Liang Feng , Hu Gaoyao , Wu Jizhen , Huang Hairong , Li Mingxue
Published: September 2022

Objective:

To investigate the genetic mechanism and prevalence of antibiotic resistance among the practitioners of two bathing beaches in tropical China.

Methods:

Totally 259 strains were isolated from the rectal swabs of the practitioners and screened by MacConkey agar. A questionnaire survey was conducted. Kirby-Bauer test was used for phenotype, and double disc inhibition synergy test was used for extended-spectrum β -lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), which was further confirmed by VITEKII instrument. The genotype was detected by polymerase chain reaction, and the similarities of ESBL-E were analyzed using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.

Results:

The prevalence of ESBL-E was 13.1% (34/259), of which, CTX-M genes accounted for 44.1% (15/34), mainly CTX-M-14 and CTX-M-27. Moreover, 19.1% (4/21) of the isolates were homologous. The resistance phenotypes of ESBL-E to chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ceftazidime, cefepime and gentamicin were different between two beaches(P<0.05). The prevalence of ESBL-E was caused by CTX-M genes at the island beach, while a high prevalence of ESBL-E was found at the city beach and clone transfer occurred.

Conclusions:

ESBL-E-associated gentamicin antibiotic resistance risk may be greater for island beach practitioners. The city beach populations could face more potential risks owing to severe resistance and metastatic ability of ESBL-E. The environmental exposure mechanisms and transfer role of antibiotic resistance at public beaches with high density should be investigated.
What is a better value for your time? Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion versus cervical disc arthroplasty
Authors: Katz Austen David , Song Junho , Bowles Daniel , Ng Terence , Neufeld Eric , Hasan Sayyida , Perfetti Dean , Sodhi Nipun , Essig David , Silber Jeff , Virk Sohrab
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Compared to anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), the motion preservation of cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA) provides an attractive alternative with similar short-term results. However, there is a paucity of the economics of performing CDA over ACDF.

Study Design:

This was retrospective study.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to evaluate relative-value-units (RVUs), operative time, and RVUs-per-minute between single-level ACDF and CDA. Secondary outcomes included 30-day readmission, reoperation, and morbidity.

Methods:

Adults who underwent ACDF or CDA in 2011–2019 National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database datasets. Multivariate quantile regression was utilized.

Results:

There were 26,595 patients (2024 CDA). ACDF patients were older, more likely to be female, discharged to inpatient rehabilitation, and have a history of obesity, smoking, diabetes, steroid use, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists-class ≥3. ACDF had greater median RVUs-per-case (41.2 vs. 24.1) and RVUs-per-minute (0.36 vs. 0.27), despite greater operative-time (109 min vs. 92 min) (P < 0.001). ACDF predicted a 16.9 unit increase in median RVUs per case (P < 0.001, confidence interval [CI]95: 16.3–17.5), an 8.81 min increase in median operative time per case (P < 0.001, CI95: 5.69–11.9), and 0.119 unit increase in median RVUs-per-minute (P < 0.001, CI95: 0.108–0.130). ACDF was associated with greater unadjusted rates of readmission (3.2% vs. 1.4%) morbidity (2.3% vs. 1.1%) (P < 0.001), but similar rates of reoperation (1.3% vs. 0.8%, P = 0.080). After adjusting for significant patient-related and procedural factors, readmission (odds ratio [OR] = 0.695, P = 0.130, CI95: 0.434–1.113) and morbidity (OR = 1.102, P = 0.688, CI95: 0.685–1.773) was similar between ACDF and CDA.

Conclusions:

Median RVUs-per-minute increased by 0.119 points for ACDF over CDA, or $257.7/h for each additional-hour of surgery. Adjusted 30-day outcomes were similar between procedures. Reimbursement for CDA does not appear to be in line with ACDF and may be a barrier to widespread usage.
Pregnancy outcome among high-risk pregnant women in the rural area of Belagavi
Authors: Chate Sphurti Uday , Metgud Chandra Shrishail
Published: September 2022

Background:

India has around 25% high-risk pregnant mothers, which leads to about 75% perinatal morbidities.(1) The early prediction of a high-risk pregnancy and planning interventions can help in preventing complications and result in good pregnancy outcomes.

Aims:

To study the pregnancy outcome among the high-risk pregnant women of a rural area and to associate pregnancy outcomes of high-risk pregnant women with modified Coopland’s criteria.

Material and Methods:

Study design: 1-year Longitudinal study from 2016 to 2017, Study population: The high-risk pregnant women attending PMSMA camp, Study area: Kinaye, Primary Health Centre, Belagavi. Sample size: 147, Data collection was done using a pretested predesigned questionnaire after obtaining patient consent and ethical clearance. Chi-square test was used to study the association of variables and categorical data presented as percentages.

Results:

Among the participants, 40.4% of the pregnant women had low-risk scores; 45.9% had high-risk scores, and 13.7% had severe-risk scores according to Coopland’s high-risk pregnancy scoring. Nearly 29.5% high-risk pregnancies resulted in bad fetal outcomes. As Coopland’s score in the high-risk group increased, the chance of having good fetal outcomes decreased, and this association was found to be statistically significant.

Conclusions:

70.5% of the high-risk mothers had good pregnancy outcomes. The scoring system can be used by health workers for the prediction of high-risk pregnancy and plan treatment and preventive measures.
Assessment of indicators on drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) practices from rural schools of Kathua
Authors: Sangra Sonika , Razdan Nazuk , Choudhary Neha
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Safe and adequate water supply and sanitation in schools are prerequisites for right to basic education for school children. The provision of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities has been linked to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to assess the indicators of WASH in schools falling under the Rural Health and Training Centre (RHTC), Budhi, GMC Kathua.

Material and Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted during a period of two months in the month of September 2019 to October 2019. It was done in the rural area under CHC Nagri Parole Kathua. The total number of schools under CHC is 981. Interview of the head of the school was done using world health organization (WHO) and united nations international children’s emergency fund (UNICEF) Standardized Questionnaire for WASH Practices. The Questionnaire includes core and expanded questions on drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel and descriptive statistics was analyzed in the form of number and percentages.

Results:

Out of total 139 schools, 57.72% schools had basic drinking water facilities. Only 29.11% schools have basic hand-washing facilities with soap and water; 81.29% of the schools have improved toilets.

Conclusion:

Political will and financing and effective delivery of interventions will be required to ensure universal access to WASH in schools.
Assessment of the efficacy of digital panoramic radiographs in analyzing changes in bone mineral density in postmenopausal women
Authors: Jacob Lisa Elizabeth , Subramanian Kailasam , Srinivasan Srividhya , Krishnan Meenakshi , Krishnan Anand , Mathew Anju
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Osteoporosis is described by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a ‘progressive systemic skeletal disease characterized by low bone mass, microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, a consequent increase in bone fragility, and susceptibility to fracture. The maxilla and mandible are also affected by osteoporotic changes and these may be visualized using an Orthopantomogram.

Aims and Objectives:

To determine the radiomorphometric indices in the digital orthopantomograms, to determine the bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine and femur using DXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan, to compare the measured indices between the BMD categories and to assess the correlation of these indices with the measured BMD.

Materials and Methods:

The study population included 30 postmenopausal female patients. The BMD was measured at the lumbar spine and at the femur and the patients were divided into three groups of 10 subjects based on their BMD status (normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis). The patients were then subjected to panoramic radiography and four panoramic indices were assessed (simple visual estimation, mandibular cortical index, mental index, and antegonial index). The measured indices were compared between the three BMD categories. The correlation between the indices and the BMD was also observed.

Results:

The measured indices showed significant difference among the BMD categories. The quantitative indices also demonstrated a positive correlation with the measured BMD of the lumbar spine and the femur.

Conclusion:

Panoramic radiography may be used as a diagnostic tool for screening and identifying subjects who are likely to have osteoporosis.
A cross-sectional study to assess the pre-marital sexual practices among Panjab University students, Chandigarh, India
Authors: Sharma Aditi , Goel Naveen Krishan , Prashar Savita , Choudhary Kshitij
Published: September 2022

Background:

In India, premarital partnerships whether involving sex or not are widely unacceptable. Various studies in India have reported heightened premarital sexual activities among youngsters.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess the involvement of youth in premarital sexual practices studying at Panjab University.

Methods:

The cross-sectional study was conducted at Panjab University situated in Chandigarh, India between February and August 2020. Purposive sampling was used to recruit students. Data was collected using a pre-tested, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire. The nature of the data was quantitative and was analyzed through SPSS version 20.

Results:

A total of 211 (female/male: 51.7%/48.3%, mean age: 22.5 years) respondents were enrolled. Prevalence of premarital sex was 68.7% with an average age of sexual debut 18.5 years. 62.1% of respondents were practicing unprotected sex. 91% of respondents were involved in vaginal sex, 61.4% in oral sex, 29% in online sex, and 19.3% in anal sex. 66.8% of respondents were involved in the habit of masturbation. In students having a positive premarital sexual background, 78.2% of respondents had sexting, 38.8% had friends with benefits, 33.9% had one-night stands, 4.8% had a threesome and 2.3% had gay sex. Out of all the respondents involved in premarital sexual practices, 86.9% were satisfied with sexual life.

Conclusion:

There is a need to empower the younger population involved in risky sexual behavior by accelerating their sexual and reproductive rights education to propagate safe sexual behavior in premarital sexual practices.
Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome because of skin infection – a case report
Authors: Gupta Ajay K. , Jain Nishesh , Jindal Saurabh , Puri Saurabh , Randhawa Gulshan S.
Published: September 2022

Staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) is a toxin-mediated disease. It is a severe fatal disease inducing immune-mediated inflammatory reaction and occurs because of exotoxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus. Common signs and symptoms at the time of presentation lead to misdiagnosis and delay in initiation of treatment. Prognosis depends primarily on early diagnosis and prompt treatment. This is a case of a young adult male presented with fever, rash, and hypotension and diagnosed with STSS.
Role and importance of journal reader: Scientific contribution of letter to editor
Authors: Kumar Raman
Published: September 2022

Letters to the editor are not often considered high in the publication hierarchy but they contribute immensely to the growth and development of any discipline and scientific examination. In many academic settings, letters to editors are not accounted for promotion and career advancement. However, letter to editor publications by active readers are no lesser contribution to science and they should be considered of equal stature and at par with other published manuscript types.
The yield of fecal occult blood testing as a screening tool for colon cancer in a primary care setting
Authors: Almoneef Naif M. , Alkhenizan Abdullah H. , Mahmoud Ahmed S. , Alsoghayer Suad A. , Aldheshe Abdulaziz A.
Published: September 2022

Background/Aims:

The most common cancer among men and the third most common among women in Saudi Arabia is colon cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the yield of the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) used as a screening tool for colon cancer.

Settings and Design:

Medical records of all patients above the age of 50 years who had visited the Family Medicine clinic at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and who had undergone the FOBT screening between January 2002 and March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed.

Materials and Methods:

We collected patients’ demographic data, FOBT results, and colonoscopy pathology reports results.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science Version 25 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).

Results:

We included 2179 patients in this study. The mean age was 59.8 ± 8 years. As a result of the FOBT screening, 19.7% of the patients had a positive FOBT. Colon cancer accounted for 3.5% of all abnormal colonoscopy pathology reports. The Saudi age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) in our study was 26.56 per 100,000 persons.

Conclusion:

FOBT is a feasible tool that can be used for colon cancer screening in primary care settings. The Saudi ASIR in our study was higher than the Saudi Cancer Registry, but it was still lower in comparison to other countries. We recommend the establishment of a national community-based colon cancer screening program.
A follow-up study of surgically managed benign vocal cord lesions using vocal handicap index – 10 score
Authors: Singh Deepali , Baruah Binayak , Basu Debaditya , Kumar Alok , Gupta Ajay
Published: September 2022

Background and Objectives:

Benign lesions of the vocal cords not only impair the patient’s ability to communicate due to poor pronunciation and voice capabilities, but they also cause a variety of psychological and social problems, worsening their quality of life. To assess voice handicap, Voice Handicap Index (VHI)-10 is an easy-to-administer, valid and reliable tool. The present study was conducted to compare the pre-operative and post-operative well-being of patients with benign vocal cord lesions using VHI-10 among patients attending our Outpatient department.

Materials and Methods:

The study was a hospital based observational study with prospective study design, conducted over a period of 17 months (August 2019 to December 2020) on 53 patients who were clinically diagnosed to have benign vocal cord lesion and underwent micro laryngeal surgery followed by histopathological confirmation. Follow-up of the participants was done on 4th and 8th week post-operatively. Visualization of the condition of the laryngeal structures using laryngoscope assessment of VHI-10 score was done at each follow-up visit.

Results:

In our study, out of 53 study participants, approximately one-third of the cases were seen in the 5th decade, that is, 40-49 years. The mean (±SD) age of the study participants was 43.2 (±12.1) years. There was male predominance (73.6%) with male to female ratio of 2.78:1. Majority of the patients had voice-demanding profession with history of vocal abuse. In cases of non-professional voice users, the highest incidence was noted in homemakers (11.4%). Smoking was noted in nine male patients while all the female patients were non-smokers. Habit of alcohol consumption was seen in 15.1% patients and 7.5% patients had habit of other substance abuse such as tobacco chewing, betel nut chewing, etc. Vocal polyps were the most common benign lesions found in 43.3% of the patients. Preoperatively mean (± SD) VHI-10 score was 20.7 (±3.5) which significantly decreased to 12.6 (±2.5) at 4th week post-operatively and 8.5 (±2.3) at 8th week post-operatively. Mean differences between pre-operative and post-operative scores were statistically significant (P < 0.01), depicting that there was improvement in the voice of the patients post-operatively.

Conclusion:

The VHI-10 scale is shown to be a good and convenient tool for assessing patient voice handicap and determining improvement post-operatively. Wider studies with larger sample size in different parts of the country may be recommended to validate the findings of the study. In addition to surgical excision of lesion, speech therapy, and patient counselling are indubitably essential measures that should be undertaken for each patient so as to alleviate the handicapping effect of voice disorder and improve the overall quality of life of the individuals.
Comparison of modified McIndoe and Davydov vaginoplasty in patients with MRKH syndrome in terms of anatomical results, sexual performance and satisfaction
Authors: Deldar-Pesikhani Maryam , Ghanbari Zinat , Shahrbabaki Fareideh Sabzi , Nassiri Saina , Raznahan Maedeh , Shokrpour Maryam
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

To compare the modified McIndoe versus Davydov vaginoplasty techniques in terms of anatomical results, sexual performance, and satisfaction.

Methods:

From September 2019 to June 2021, a comparative study was conducted on 20 patients with MRKH syndrome who underwent either McIndoe vaginoplasty (McIndoe group, 10 cases) or Davydov vaginoplasty (Davydov group, 10 cases) in a university-based tertiary care hospital (Imam Khomeini Hospital) in terms of anatomical results, sexual performance, and satisfaction. Functional results were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI).

Results:

All surgical procedures (n = 20) were performed successfully. Patients in the modified McIndoe group were similar to those in the Davydov group in terms of hospital stay and intraoperative complications. However, postoperative complications were higher in the McIndoe group. There were no significant differences in the neovaginal length and width of the two groups at the 6-month follow-up (P > 0.05). Other parameters (duration of mold use and blood transfusion) were similar for all patients in the two groups. At 12 months after surgery, all patients had regular sexual activity. No significant differences were found in either group.

Conclusions:

In terms of anatomical results, sexual performance, and satisfaction, the two techniques were similar.
Anxiety and depression among new cancer patients
Authors: Safaie Nilufar , Zeinali Hadi , Ghahramanfard Farahnaz , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Moonesan Mohammadreza
Published: September 2022

Introduction and Objective:

Definitive diagnosis, tedious treatment methods, and long treatment duration are possible factors contributing to psychiatric disorders in cancerous patients, including anxiety and depression. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the effective factors on the occurrence of psychiatric disorders in newly diagnosed cancer patients.

Methods:

This descriptive-analytical study was conducted in Semnan, Iran, in 2018, in which 122 patients with cancer were included. In this study, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale questionnaire was used to collect the required data. Frequency comparisons between the sub-groups were performed using the Chi-square test and, if necessary, Fisher’s exact test. Moreover, the T-test or Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare numerical variables.

Results:

In this study, the mean values of total depression and total anxiety among patients were 26.2% and 28.6%, respectively. According to the results, anxiety was observed in 74.3% of low-income people and 80% of females. Gender and income were significantly associated with anxiety in patients with cancer (p < 0/05). However, no significant association was found between depression and the variables of gender, age, level of education, and income (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The inclusion of psychiatric interventions in the treatment program of cancer patients can be effective in controlling psychiatric disorders, especially depression and anxiety.
Policy, programs, and activities for promotion of water, sanitation and hygiene practices in schools of India
Authors: Dakhode Sarika U. , Gaidhane Abhay M. , Choudhari Sonali G.
Published: September 2022

The data has been compiled from peer-reviewed journals, published books, some organizational reports, and papers from conferences. The major electronic databases that have been utilized for this review, to collect publications that are relevant to the research aims include Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct databases. The keywords used to search were WASH, Hygiene, School, Policy, and Programs. In addition, primary explorations were also steered in the Johns Hopkins Health Resource and US CDC Library, and Ministry of Health and family welfare, India.