bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SECRETORY PITUITARY MICROADENOMA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: OP Nimisha , Krishnan P Shaiju
Published: August 2022

Prolactinomas are the most common hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma and more frequently occur in females than males. A 35-year-old female patient had c/o milky discharge from the nipple of the breast, headache, and irregular menstrual periods for one year. She has consulted an obstetrics doctor and has taken modern medicine, and she had found some improvement in the starting phase of the treatment, but there has been no progress in that condition for the last six months. So, she has planned to take Ayurveda treatment for the same. The patient was subjected to an Ayurvedic management protocol, including Snehapana, Virechana, and Nasya, for seven days, followed by Shamana Chikitsa for six months. The clinical presentation of this case points towards the diagnosis of Granthi in Ayurveda.
A CASE STUDY: VIRECHANA IN URTICARIA
Authors: NA Haripriya , George Joshi
Published: August 2022

In the present era, dermatological diseases are becoming more common due to increased pollution, changes in lifestyle, food habits and the stressful work environment. Urticaria is one such type characterized by red, raised wheal formation associated with itching. A 28-year-old female patient came in the OPD of Panchakarma with red, raised, itchy lesions over both hands and lower legs for the last five years. She was under steroids and antihistamines for an extended period, but there was no relief. The case was diagnosed as Urticaria. In Ayurveda, it can be correlated with Seetapitta, a Vatapitta pradhana roga. Abhyanga, Seka, Vamana, and Virechana are the treatments told by Acharyas. Here Virechana with Trivrut lehya was given after Snehapana with Aragwada mahathikthaka ghrita. The patient got marked relief from the lesions and itching after follow-up.
MANAGEMENT OF ATOPIC DERMATITIS (CHARMADALA) IN CHILDREN BY AYURVEDIC REGIMEN: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Chandak Pooja , Kale Anil , Swami Tirunagari , Jawade Swati
Published: August 2022

In the modern era, our daily sedentary lifestyle has given rise to most skin diseases compared to the last 30-40 years. Atopic Dermatitis or eczema is the most common chronic relapsing skin disease seen in infancy and childhood. It affects 10-30% of children worldwide and frequently occurs in families with other atopic diseases, such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and food allergy. The case study discussed here is of a 14-year-old male child with a papulovesicular rash over the right ankle region, severe itching, and occasional bloody discharge from a lesion. He received treatment but got temporary relief, and relapses were frequent. Then he came to Ayurvedic OPD and was given an ayurvedic regimen (i.e., Khadir Ghrita, Gandhak Rasayana and Kaishor Guggula, along with the external application of Tuvarak tail over lesions). The child had significant relief from signs and symptoms of Atopic Dermatitis. The recurrence or the frequency of disease was found to be markedly reduced. Ayurvedic regimen proved to be beneficial in this case of Atopic Dermatitis.
CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF EPILEPSY (APASMAR) IN CHILD BY AYURVEDIC REGIME: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Jawade Swati S , Swamy Tirunagiri , Kale Anil , Chandak Pooja , Paldewad Dnyaneshwar
Published: August 2022

Epilepsy is the most common management of neurological problems and stands after stroke and dementia in its prevalence. Epilepsy is a chief public health problem all over the world. The percentage of the general population with active epilepsy at a given time ranges from 4-10 per 1,000 people. The case study discussed here is of 4 year 5-month-old male child, known case of seizure disorder with his 1st episode at seven months due to febrile illness seizure manifested as generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) type of seizure lasting for 3-5min; then he came to Ayurvedic OPD and was given ayurvedic regimen (i.e. shankhapushpadya ghrita SaraswatarishtaMedhya drug) along with panchakarma procedure. The child had significant relief from signs and symptoms of epilepsy. The recurrence or the frequency of disease was found to be markedly reduced. The Ayurvedic regimen, along with the panchakarma procedure, proved to be beneficial in this case.
PATHYADI CHURNA: A HERBO MINERAL MEDICINE FOR DIGESTIVE DISORDERS
Authors: EU Nikhil Neelakandhan , Deshpande Shailesh
Published: August 2022

Pathyadi churna is a Herbo-Mineral preparation mentioned in Chakradutta, which is indicated in all types of Ajeerna like Ama, Vidagdha, Vishtabdha and Rasasesha. Pathya, Pippali and Souvarchala lavana are the ingredients of the preparation. pH, LOD, Ash values, Water and Alcohol soluble extracts were observed. Ash value was a little high due to the high presence of Souvarchala lavana. HPTLC was done to determine the presence of constituents like Gallic acid and Piperine. The presence of heavy metals was within limits. The presence of Alkaloids and Phenols was also observed. This help suggests the drug's possible mode of action in digestive disorders. The antimicrobial study of Pathyadi churna revealed its action against S. aureus, C. albicans, Lactobacillus acidophilus and B. subtilis, but the probiotic action is revealed when the trial drug is given with its anupana Masthu. Also found is that Pathyadi churna doesn’t act against E. Coli bacteria.
ROLE OF KSHARAGAD IN DUSHIVISHA JANYA VIKAR WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO ALLERGIC SKIN DISEASES
Authors: Choudhary Rashmi , Inchulkar S R
Published: August 2022

Context: Dushivisha shows various toxic symptoms and disorders in different body systems, including the skin. Skin problems caused by Dushivisha, described in Samhitas, are Kustha, Visarpa, Bhinna Varna, Shonitdusti, Shitapitta, Udarda, and Kotha. Udarda-Sheetapitta-Kotha has almost similar symptoms and causative factors as an allergic skin disease (Urticaria) characterized by erythematous and pruritic rashes and a burning sensation on the skin. Aim: To evaluate the effect of Ksharagad clinically as a trial group and Dushivishari agad as a standard group in managing Dushivisha twak janya vikar with special reference to Allergic skin Diseases and to compare the effects of both therapies clinically. Setting and design: Randomized selection of 60 patients was made according to the inclusion criteria. Material and Methods: For this study, only those signs and symptoms affecting the skin, like burning sensation, redness, and itching, were taken for analysis as they were the main symptoms of allergic skin diseases. Along with the patients who had a history of intake of Dushivisha and Virudhahar. For this purpose, patients were selected from OPD/IPD of Shri Khudadad Dungaji, Government Ayurvedic College Hospital, Raipur, C.G. Statistical analysis: Statistically analysis was done based on paired t-test. Results: According to collected data, it was concluded that the treatment effect of Ksharagad was better in the case of mandal, kandu, raga and daha, while in toda and lakshanik barambarta Dushivishari agad was better.
A CLINICAL STUDY OF ETIOPATHOGENESIS OF OBESE (STHULA) PCOS AND ITS MANAGEMENT BY MEDOHARGUGGULA
Authors: Chaudhari Sonali Sanjay , Mohite Swati S
Published: August 2022

The polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal disorder affecting 7% of the reproductive age of women. Women with PCOS have an irregular menstrual cycle, excess androgen, anovulation, hirsutism, and infertility. As per Ayurveda, this type of clinical feature is found in Pushpaghni Jataharini and Nashtartava. The present study provides information about some herbal plants, active plant constituents, and some formulations clinically tested in animal models that induce PCOS and humans suffering from PCOS. Aim: A clinical study of etiopathogenesis of obese (Sthula) PCOS and its management by Medoharguggula. Methodology: The two sections have made for a better understanding of the aim and objectives of the present study. The study was conducted on 30 patients. The drug Medoharguggula was given in Vati form with the dosage of 500 mg thrice a day with lukewarm water. This study was conducted at Bharati Ayurveda hospital during 2020-2022. It was a randomized, open clinical trial study. Results: A total of 35 patients were evaluated in this study. Out of which five discontinued the treatment, and 30 patients completed it. Conclusions: The herbal contents of the drug were found effective in reducing weight. It was not found effective in reducing BMI, hirsutism, acanthosis nigricans and weight reduction. Also, the menstrual cycle interval was found to be regular or at the interval of 45 days in 80% of the patients.
PHARMACEUTICAL AND ANALYTICAL STUDY OF SARIVADI VATI: AN HERBOMINERAL FORMULATION FOR KARNA ROGA
Authors: Sharma Gunjan , Yadav Yadevendra , Rani Priyanka , Kumar Arun , Jardhari Hemraj Singh
Published: August 2022

Shir (head) is known as “Uttamanga” (Best organ) because many specialized sense organs are located. Karna (Ear) is an organ that is termed as “Srotindrya” as it is a specialized organ does work of Sravana (hearing). Pain and severe loss of hearing are found in most ear diseases. Abnormal sounds such as ringing or buzzing in one or both ears that may be regular or irregular may or may not be associated with hearing loss, especially in older adults. This disease is called ‘Karnanada’ and ‘Karnasweda’ in Ayurveda and ‘Taneen wa Dawi’ in the Unani system of medicine. Karnanada (tinnitus) is a disease mentioned under Karnarogas by various Ayurvedic Acharyas (scholars). Karnanada is the commonest Karna (ear) disease, affecting all age groups, especially elder patients. According to Acharya Charaka and Madhava, Karna is one of the Adhisthana of Vata Dosha, and Karnanada is a Vataj Nanatmaja Vyadhi. Sarivadi vati is the herbo-mineral Ayurvedic formulation mentioned in Bhaishjya Ratnawali in the management of Karnaroga. It was prepared by the classical method mentioned in Bhaisjya Ratnawali, and excipients were added as per the Ayurvedic Pharmacopeia of India. Pharmaceutical analysis of Vati (tablet) preparation was done according to the API and Protocol of drug testing of PLIM. The Pharmaceutical analysis of the tablet shows that it was light brown in colour and average wt. = 567.2 mg, LOD = 2.53, DT=20-21 min, AV=13.44, AIA= 1.91, WSE= 9.52, & ASE=3.54. The formulation is safe for use, as heavy metals were below the acceptable limit and free from any pathogenic microbes.
EFFICACY AND CLINICAL SAFETY OF PRISHIPARNI GHANAVATI IN GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS (PRAMEHA IN GARBHINI)
Authors: Khose Namrata Bhausaheb , Mohite Swati
Published: August 2022

Aim: To study the efficacy and clinical safety of Prishniparni ghanavati in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (Prameha in Garbhini). Methodology: The study was conducted on 20 patients, Prishniparni ghanavati 500 mg twice daily, with warm water. This study was conducted at Bharati Ayurveda hospital during 2020-2022. It was a randomized, open-control trial study. Patients with raised DIPSI (Diabetes in pregnancy societies of India), i.e., above 140 mg/dl and below 200 mg/dl, were included in this study. Results: A total of 31 patients were evaluated in this study. Out of which, 30 were recruited and 20 patients completed. A total of two patients dropped out due to factors like the covid-19 pandemic, irregular follow-up, etc. The herbal medicine was tolerated well in trial group patients. Conclusions: In this study, it is proved that prishniparni could be the choice of the herb in these cases. Prishniparni proved effective in managing GDM if the BSL is less than 200. All patients well tolerated the herb. The side effects are not observed in this study.
A STUDY ON TRENDS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHRONIC LIVER DISEASE PATIENTS
Authors: Mishra Santanu , L Mahadevamma , Sah Bivek Dayal
Published: August 2022

Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a progressive deterioration of liver functions. The generation of clotting factors and other proteins, the detoxification of toxic metabolic products and the excretion of bile are all liver functions. This continuous inflammation, destruction, and regeneration of liver parenchyma led to fibrosis and cirrhosis. These are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the country, majorly attributed to excessive alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study aimed to understand the recent trends in managing chronic liver disease. The liver function tests were assessed in all subjects with a history of CLD complications, and treatment was initiated. Patients were re-examined with LFTs to note the efficacy of the treatment. The study showed that CLD is more prevalent in males due to their lifestyle and social habits. The primary drug prescribed was ursodeoxycholic acid (18.7%), with the best advisable diet restrictions of water and salt (17.4%). Follow-up was conducted regarding LFTs and observed improvement with treatment. With the best management plan, liver functioning can be reverted to normal. Management of CLD and its complications is vital to maintaining hepatic function and the quality of life of patients. With a note on progress, the best non-pharmacotherapies can be advised to improve patients’ quality of life. The study provides an idea to physicians regarding the recent trends and ways of planning a therapy.
A STUDY ON ANTIBIOTIC REGIMENS BASED ON CULTURE SENSITIVITY PATTERNS IN URINARY TRACT INFECTION
Authors: Kamath Shubha J , L Mahadevamma , Rynjah Shanborlang , U J Aswathy
Published: August 2022

Objective: The study aimed to prospectively study the antibiotic regimen used in the urinary tract infection (UTI) post culture sensitivity test and the efficiency of antibiotics. Methods: A total of 113 subjects were enrolled of age above 18 years. The patients with complaints of burning micturition, pyuria, and dysuria were recruited for the study. The suspected patient’s midstream urine samples were collected and analyzed using microbial methods and underwent a culture sensitivity test. Based on the culture report of each patient antibiotic susceptibility pattern was checked. Additionally, various other kidney and blood parameters were noted. Results: We observed that in geriatric patients’ values of Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), pus cells and clarity of urine were increased due to reduced immune response and co-morbidity. Most of the isolated uro-pathogens like Escherichia coli (47.8%), Klebsiella pneumonia (21.2%), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (6.2%) showed sensitivity to the carbapenem class of drug-like meropenem, faropenem and resistance towards co-trimoxazole and fluoroquinolone class of antibiotic. A statistically significant difference was observed between the culture organisms and the antibiotics prescribed. Conclusions: The study provided evidence that it is necessary to conduct culture and antibiotic susceptibility tests to start an antibiotic regimen in patients with urinary tract infections. Improper choice of antibiotics may lead to resistance to uro-pathogens, which may even lead to economic burden and decrease the quality of life.
A REVIEW ON SANSKRIT VERSES FROM THE CHARAKA SAMHITA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCES TO EPILEPSY
Authors: Anya Vaish
Published: August 2022

The neurological disease of epilepsy is covered in detail in the ancient Ayurvedic text, Charaka Samhita, compiled more than 2000 years ago. The description of the disease and treatment options mention several essential herbs and plants, which may help identify new medications for epilepsy. This article outlines the English transliteration of a few important Sanskrit verses from the Charaka Samhita and mentions the botanical names of herbs and plants mentioned in the text. Few verses that describe how to maintain a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition to avoid disease are also included.
Catalyzing Quality Improvement in the HIV Control Programme of Rivers State: Evidence of the Impact of Clinical Mentorship Programme
Authors: Owhonda Golden Chukwuemeka , Dakum Patrick Sunday , Mensah Charles , Olupitan Olayemi Kinmilola , Kanee Rogers Bariture , Aigbogun Jr Eric Osamudiamwen , Edewor Ufuoma
Published: August 2022

Background: Rivers State had a huge burden of PLHIV, and the UNAIDS Spectrum 2019 model projected the total number of PLHIV in the State in 2020 to be 184,551. The semblance of HIV treatment care and support program, commencing after the diagnosis of the first reported case of HIV, dates as far back as 1989 when HIV was first diagnosed in the State. However, thirty years later, the treatment coverage had remained poor, despite the support of development partners. So, there was a strong need to strengthen the capacity of all critical actors in the program to achieve the objectives around the three-95s of the End AIDS Strategy, using strategic yet novel interventions such as the CMP. This research aims to determine how much of an effect a clinical mentorship program has had on enhancing Rivers State's HIV control efforts.

Methodology: The clinical mentorship framework was implemented and amortized to strengthen all layers of ongoing interventions to catalyze better quality improvement. Clinical Mentors were recruited as indigenous medical experts knowledgeable in HIV service delivery and trained on quality improvement strategies and the use of virtual audiovisual systems, data management, team command system, and problem-solving models for the timeous impact of achieving key programme targets.

Results: The Clinical Mentorship Programme (CMP) supported the achievement of a 690% & 23% increase in TX_CURR & PVLS, respectively, 27 months after its introduction. The TX_CURR improved by a factor of 7.9, and the PVLS increased by a factor of 1.23. The TX_CURR and PVLS achieved >100% of the target. The CMP was a success in the Rivers State HIV Control Programme.

Conclusion: Though other ongoing cross-cutting interventions may mask any reported advances in key performance indicators, the introduction of the CMP appears to have corresponded with and largely (but not entirely) stimulated the observed achievements and impact on the monitored key program metrics. It is recommended for similar contexts and public health programs in places with limited resources and significant unmet needs.
Effect of Alkaloids Extracted from Local Lupine Plant on Growth and Yield in Pepper
Authors: Al-Najjar Souad Abdel Latif Mohamed Al-Mursi , Khairy Al-Sayed Ahmed Fahmy Mohamed
Published: August 2022

One of the most important modern strategies to increase agricultural productivity is the recycling of wastes rich in important components that stimulate different physiological and biological activities in plants. Alkaloids removed from bitter lupine (Lupinus termis L.) seeds may be a good alternative natural source of industrial chemicals and may encourage plant growth and productivity as the recent global trend "aims to use natural materials to preserve the environment and avoid side effects. Due to the increased demand of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) for its nutritional content and high acceptance, the study goal is to improve the growth and productivity of the locally produced pepper crop by using active biological substances such as alkaloids (free of carbohydrates) extracted from bitter lupine. Bitter lupine seeds were used to extract the alkaloids free of sugar, which were subsequently dried at a temperature no higher than 50 °C. Alkaloids extract was added to each plant at concentrations (0, 500, 100, 1000, 2000) mg dw/200 ml water and its effect on vegetative evolution, output, and quality of fruit cultivar Rumi Suez were evaluated. The experiment was conducted under greenhouses in the Agricultural Research Center/Ismailia Station during the winter agricultural seasons 2019/2020 in sandy soil using three replications, Randomized Complete Block Design (R.C.B.D) and the differences among the means were tested according to Duncan's test at p≤0.05. The results showed a considerable increment in the vegetative development indicators, including plant height, main branches number, leaf area, leaves number, wet and dried weight of leaves and stems and leaves chlorophyll levels, in addition to productivity yield per plant, total yield, vitamin C, and phenols when treated with alkaloids extracted. It was found that the mean number of fruits, yield per plant, total yield, vitamin C content, phenols, and fruit quality increased with increasing concentrations of alkaloids used. In order to achieve the highest production and quality of pepper fruits, it is recommended to add alkaloids extracted from bitter lupine seeds, free of sugars, at a concentration of 2000 mg for each plant, dissolved in an appropriate amount of water around the plant once after two weeks of planting and then repeating it a month after planting.
Transformational Leadership How its Effect Work-Life Balance and Employee Engagement
Authors: Hayati Keumala
Published: August 2022

Aims: The previous survey showed that employee engagement in Indonesia is shallow. This study attempts to test the effect of transformational leadership on work-life balance and employee engagement.

Study Design / Methodology: Data was obtained by distributing questionnaires to 107 bank employees in Bandarlampung, Indonesia. The characteristics of respondents show that males (57.9%) are higher than females (42.1%). Data analysis was performed using Smart PLS.

Results: The analysis results support the hypothesis that transformational leadership positively affects work-life balance and employee engagement.

Conclusion: This finding shows that most of the banking leaders in Bandar Lampung apply transformational leadership. Transformational leadership will enhance work-life balance and employee engagement. This research implies that the leader stimulates and inspires his followers to achieve extraordinary results and develop his capacity, the more positive state of mind, satisfaction, and employee engagement with the organization will be. Leaders with a transformational are also able to encourage employee work-life balance.
Composition of Flavour Non Volatile Compound Steamed Snakehead Fish (Channa striata)
Authors: Sandria Fery , Pratama Rusky Intan , Subiyanto . , Liviawaty Evi
Published: August 2022

This research aims to identify the composition of non-volatile flavor compounds contained in steamed snakehead fish (Channa striata). This research was conducted at the Fishery Product Processing Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Padjadjaran University, Jatinangor; Integrated Laboratory of IPB. The study was conducted experimentally by treating samples of fresh snakehead fish and steamed snakehead fish (at a temperature of 100oC for ± 30 minutes). A simple product description test was carried out on samples which included appearance, meat, aroma, texture, and taste. Identification of non-volatile flavor compounds using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The results showed that the product description test of steamed snakehead fish has an external appearance that is almost the same as fresh snakehead fish, the skin peels easily and the eyes of the fish are cooked. The texture of the meat is easy to tear. The distinctive aroma of a specific type of snakehead fish. Steamed snakehead fish has a distinctive taste mixed with the sensation of mud. The non-volatile flavor compounds identified as many as 15 amino acid compounds in the steamed snakehead fish sample. The two umami amino acids are 3,40% glutamic acid and 2,23% aspartic acid. The four sweet amino acids are alanine 1,28%, threonine 1,00%, glycine 0,94% and serine 0,84%. Nine bitter amino acids are lysine 2,12%, leucine 1,76%, arginine 1,37%, valine 1,08%, isoleucine 1,08%, phenylalanine 0,95%, tyrosine 0,76%, methionine 0,66% and histidine 0,55%.
Antimicrobial Activities of the Leaf Extracts of Ficus sycomorus Linn. on Helicobacter pylori and Citrobacter freundii
Authors: Ihuma J. O. , Z. Koggie A. , Famojuro T. I. , O. Ugboji L. , D. Malgwi T.
Published: August 2022

Aims: The aim of this study is to determine the antimicrobial activities of Ficus sycomorus leave extract on selected bacteria. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids and flavonoids, it also revealed the absence of glycoside.

Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology laboratory, Biological Sciences Department, Bingham University Karu, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

Methodology: Plant extracts were prepared by boiling, soaking and methanol extraction. 96-well plates dilution method for determination of Minimum Inhibition Concentraction (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) were carried out.

Results: The MBC for Helicobacter pylori and Citrobacter freundii showed antimicrobial activities at 400 µl each. The plant has exhibited strong antimicrobial activity on Helicobacter pylori and Citrobacter freundii.

Conclusion: The antimicrobial compounds produced by plant extracts are active against bacteria. It is expected that plant extracts showing target sites other than those used by antibiotics will be active against drug-resistant microorganisms.
Hepatitis B Virus and Behavioural Risk among Blood Donors, Gabon
Authors: Maulot-Bangola Denis, , Mangala Christian, , Pellegrin Olivier, Rebienot , Fokam Joseph, , Nkoa Thérèse,
Published: August 2022

Background: In resource- limited setting, co-infection between HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) poses important public health considerations. This cross-sectional study was undertaken with the aim of determining HBV seroprevalence patterns in urban blood banks.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at an urban blood bank setting. A total of 1610 blood donors were enrolled, and 283 consecutive plasma samples with unknown HBsAg status were selected for risks factors. HBV seroprevalence was based on the Chemiluminescence method (Cobas® e601, Roche). Potential risk factors associated with overt HBV infection were assessed by calculating the crude and adjusted odds ratio, 95% confidence intervalley (95% CI) and p values.

Results: Of 1610 participants, overall rate seroprevalence of HBsAg was 5.5% (95% CI: 4.36%–6.58%) ranging from 0.06% (95% CI: 0-0.18) (HCV) to 0.12% (95% CI: 0-0.30) (Syphilis). Seroprevalence of infection increased in older age groups (20-39 years) but men had a statistically significant higher prevalence of overt HBV infection than women (P=0.0001). The multivariate model showed the following to be predictors of HBV infection: male gender (OR=2.5 (95% CI 1.14-5.58), P= 0.02), first-time donor status (OR = 11.06, (95% CI 5.34-22.9), P= 0.01) and residence outside of Libreville (OR = 2.52, 95% CI 1.09-5.83), P=0.03).

Conclusion: HB and co-infection are n o t common in Gabon. Intermediate seroprevalence was associated with male gender, first-time donor status and residence outside of Libreville. HCV and HBV infection among the younger age groups are becoming an alarming issue. Prevention and control of HBV infection are needed to reduce HBV transmission.
Identification of Suitable Spectral Bands Related to Soil Properties of Major Soils of Telengana, India
Authors: Kumar R. Ajaya , Jayasree G. , Mitran Tarik , Neelima T. L.
Published: August 2022

A study was conducted to identify suitable spectral bands related to soil properties of major soils of Telangana using hyperspectral data. A total of 200 surface soil samples were collected from district of Sangareddy (20 soil samples), Yadadri Bhuvangiri (20 soil samples), Nizamabad (20 soil samples), Adilabad (20 soil samples), Jayashankar Bhupalpally (60 soil samples), Nagar Kurnool (20 soil samples) and Nalgonda (40 soil samples) analyzed for soil properties viz., pH, electric conductivity (EC), organic carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, soil texture (percent clay). Soil spectral data (350-2500 nm) was measured using ASD spectroradiometer and correlated with soil properties using Pearson correlation test. Result shows that the soil properties like pH, OC, total N, total K , total Mn, % Clay showed significant negative correlation at 1210-1280 nm (r= -0.345**) for Ph, 610-630 nm (r= -0.415**) for OC, 390-410 nm (r= -0.180*, 0.183*, 0.175*, 0.170*) for total N, 360-390 nm (r= -0.174**,-0.158**,-0.163**,0.160**) for total K , 590-610 nm (r= -0.527** and -0.526**) for clay %.However significant positive correlation was observed with ECand 1110-1130 nm (r= 0.150* and 0.149*). These sensitive bands for soil parameters can be further used for prediction of soil properties.
Benchmarking Naturopathy Education; Comparing the Indian and Ghanaian Curricula
Authors: Obu Raphael Nyarkotey , Aggrey-Bluwey Lawrencia , Somanadhapai Sangeeth
Published: August 2022

Background: Ghana has developed two significant programs for modern naturopathic education in Africa. This success story makes Ghana one of the first countries in the West African sub-region to promote and advocate for the standardized structured naturopathic practice. This also makes Ghana join the likes of countries with a well-defined Naturopathic education such as South Africa, India, North America, and the like. In the case of South Africa, the Naturopathic program is offered at the School of Natural Medicine at the University of the Western Cape, a public institution. However, in the case of Ghana, there is a dedicated university for the promotion of naturopathy and Holistic Health programs. This, therefore, makes Ghana the first on the African continent to have a dedicated university to teach Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine. With a team of Naturopathic and Biomedical Science professionals in both clinical and academic practice, the Nyarkotey University College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT) provided a roadmap in this area. National Occupational Standard was further developed at the Higher National Diploma (HND) and Bachelor in Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine approved by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) for training two different cadres of Naturopathic Professionals. The HND aims to train Naturopaths and Bachelors to train Naturopathic Physicians. As part of training professionals to meet international standards, the curricula were benchmarked as part of approval requirements. This research paper examines the Ghanaian naturopathic curriculum to assess if it meets the Indian model for training Naturopathic Physicians.

Objective: To critically review the Ghanaian naturopathy curriculum approved by the Commission for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET).

Methods: This is qualitative research that used a document analysis. In this stage, we undertook an in-depth curricula evaluation and comparison with the Ghanaian Bachelor of Naturopathy and Holistic Medicine and the Indian Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS).

Results: We found that the Ghanaian and Indian Naturopathy curricula have some similarities and differences. The difference between the Indian and Ghanaian programs is that the first year is extended in the Indian BYNS for additional 6 months.

Conclusion. The subjects offered in the Ghanaian naturopathic curriculum are on the same level as the Indian standards. However, the Indian curriculum has yogic sciences as an important aspect of naturopathic education which cannot be said in the Ghanaian curriculum.
Molecular Approaches for Detection of Rifampin-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Its Associated Risk Factors among General Population
Authors: Bashir Kashif , Amir Muhammad , Idrees Muhammad , Ajmal Khan Muhammad , Ali Sajjad , Khan Sufaid , Hassan Zuhair , Ismail Sobia , Ayesha Huda , Haq Ihsanul , Hassan Muhammad , Ahsan Hina , Aminullah .
Published: August 2022

GeneXpert MTB/RIF is a molecular technique for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. This method not only detects M. tuberculosis but also identifies the absence or presence of different drug resistant mutations in DNA fragments like rifampicin resistance. In this study, about 200 septum samples were collected from tuberculosis suspected people of Isfandyar Bukhari District Head Quarter Hospital Attock for screening and determination of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis. The samples were screened for the presence of M. tuberculosis using Fluorescence Microscopy staining followed by GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay. The results were further confirmed by Line Probe Assay and Mycobacterium Growth Indicator Tube 960 techniques. In a total of 200 samples, 45(22.5%) were found positive, 155 (77.5%) were classified negative on culture while 38(19%) were positive and 162(81%) were negative on FM, 33(16.5%) were positive and 167(83.5%) were negative on ZN staining microscopy and 47(23.5%) were noted positive and 153 (76.5%) were negative on GeneXpert. The overall sensitivity of GeneXpert was 07% higher than that of smear microscopy and 4.2 % higher than culture.Different risk factors reported for TB are; malnutrition (23.40%), health care workers (14.89%), immunosuppression (12.76%), unimmunized with Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine and contact with infected persons (10.63%), diabetes mellitus (8.51%), poverty and foreign-born children are (4.2%). It is concluded that the most common risk factor for TB was malnutrition (23.40%) and the foreign-born children (4.2%) were least affected. GeneXpert assay for identification of tuberculosis was found more sensitive than fluorescence microscopy and for isolation of MTB and rifampicin resistance, GeneXpert RIF assay can efficiently be usedwhich is simple, robust and efficient with minimum handling technique.
Persistent Intraocular Residue with the Use of Dexycu® in Cataract Extraction: A Case Series
Authors: T. Wallace Ryan , M. Hansen Annika , A. Musser VI John , P. Mai Anthony , J. Chaya Craig
Published: August 2022

Purpose: The objective of this article is to report 8 cases of persistent IOL residue associated with the use of Dexycu® in the context of cataract surgery and then to subsequently describe each patients clinical course.

Observations and Presentation: Between 2020-2021, persistent residue was noted in 8 eyes of 7 patients who received Dexycu® implants after cataract surgery. The residue was identified an average of 1.63 months after surgery (range 0.20-4.23). A subsequent procedure removed the residue from the intraocular lens; the average time to the follow-up procedure after surgery was 4.71 months (range 1.90-11.20).

Conclusions and Importance: The Bausch and Lomb intraocular lenses seem to be predisposed to a Dexycu® persistent opacification, however correlation does not equate with causation. This article documents cases of persistent IOL residue with the use of Dexycu® and the MX60 lenses and its toric varieties. Further evaluation is necessary to elucidate the mechanism and risk factors for this occurrence.
The Study of Selecting a Test Area for Validating the Proposal Specification of InSAS(Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Sonar)
Authors: Park Yosup , Kim Seong Hyeon , Koh Jieun
Published: August 2022

This paper provides a case study of development testing and evaluation of design goal of Interferometric SAS (Synthetic Aperture Sonar) system that is developing supported by Civil-Military Technology Cooperation Center in offshore fields. For Deep water operating capabilities evaluation, We have surveyed candidate field, bathymetric mapping and target identification over 200 m depth, East Sea. In testing phase, We have provided environmental information of testing field include water column, seabed and weather condition in real time. And to compare excellency of developing InSAS, we have gather commercial imaging sonar system data with same target. This case study will support the Test Readiness Review of future underwater surveillance system developing via investigate marine testing field environment, testing facilities and planning.
Occlusion Robust Military Vehicle Detection using Two-Stage Part Attention Networks
Authors: Cho Sunyoung
Published: August 2022

Detecting partially occluded objects is difficult due to the appearances and shapes of occluders are highly variable. These variabilities lead to challenges of localizing accurate bounding box or classifying objects with visible object parts. To address these problems, we propose a two-stage part-based attention approach for robust object detection under partial occlusion. First, our part attention network(PAN) captures the important object parts and then it is used to generate weighted object features. Based on the weighted features, the re-weighted object features are produced by our reinforced PAN(RPAN). Experiments are performed on our collected military vehicle dataset and synthetic occlusion dataset. Our method outperforms the baselines and demonstrates the robustness of detecting objects under partial occlusion.
Study on Delivery of Military Drones and Transport UGVs with Time Constraints Using Hybrid Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Lee Jeonghun , Kim Suhwan
Published: August 2022

This paper studies the method of delivering munitions using both drones and UGVs that are developing along with the 4th Industrial Revolution. While drones are more mobile than UGVs, their loading capacity is small, and UGVs have relatively less mobility than drones, but their loading capacity is better. Therefore, by simultaneously operating these two delivery means, each other's shortcomings may be compensated. In addition, on actual battlefields, time constraints are an important factor in delivering munitions. Therefore, assuming an actual battlefield environment with a time limit, we establish delivery routes that minimize delivery time by operating both drones and UGVs with different capacities and speeds. If the delivery is not completed within the time limit, penalties are imposed. We devised the hybrid genetic algorithm to find solutions to the proposed model, and as results of the experiment, we showed the algorithm we presented solved the actual size problems in a short time.
A study of skin marker alignment using different diamond‐shaped light fields for prone breast external‐beam radiation therapy
Authors: Xu Huijun , Cheston Sally B. , Gopal Arun , Zhang Baoshe , Chen Shifeng , Yu Suhong , Hall Andrea , Dudley Sara
Published: August 2022

For breast cancer patients treated in the prone position with tangential fields, a diamond‐shaped light field (DSLF) can be used to align with corresponding skin markers for image‐guided radiation therapy (IGRT). This study evaluates and compares the benefits of different DSLF setups.

Seventy‐one patients who underwent daily tangential kilovoltage (kV) IGRT were categorized retrospectively into four groups: (1) DSLF field size (FS) = 10 × 10 cm2, gantry angle = 90° (right breast)/270° (left breast), with the same isocenter as treatment tangential beams; (2) same as group 1, except DSLF FS = 4 × 4 cm2; (3) DSLF FS = 4 × 4–6 × 8 cm2, gantry angle = tangential treatment beam, off‐isocenter so that the DSLF was at the approximate breast center; and (4) No‐DSLF. We compared their total setup time (including any DSLF/marker‐based alignment and IGRT) and relative kV‐based couch shift corrections. For groups 1–3, DSLF‐only dose distributions (excluding kV‐based correction) were simulated by reversely shifting the couch positions from the computed tomography plans, which were assumed equivalent to the delivered dose when both DSLF and IGRT were used.

For patient groups 1–4, the average daily setup time was 2.6, 2.5, 5.0, and 8.3 min, respectively. Their mean and standard deviations of daily kV‐based couch shifts were 0.64 ± 0.4, 0.68 ± 0.3, 0.8 ± 0.6, and 1.0 ± 0.6 cm. The average target dose changes after excluding kV‐IGRT for groups 1–3 were−0.2%, −0.1%, and +0.4%, respectively, whereas DSLF‐1 was most efficient in sparing heart and chest wall, DSLF‐2 had lowest lung Dmax; and DSLF‐3 maintained the highest target coverage at the cost of highest OAR dose.

In general, the use of DSLF greatly reduces patient setup time and may result in smaller IGRT corrections. If IGRT is limited, different DSLF setups yield different target coverage and OAR dose sparing. Our findings will help DSLF setup optimization in the prone breast treatment setting.
Trigeminovascular effects of propranolol in men and women, role for sex steroids
Authors: Rubio‐Beltrán Eloísa , Schoon Rianne M. , van den Berg Jeffrey , Schuiling‐Veninga Catharina C. M. , Koch Birgit C. P. , Villalón Carlos M. , Versmissen Jorie , Danser A. H. Jan , van den Meiracker Anton H. , Ibrahimi Khatera , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette
Published: August 2022

Objective

Assess whether propranolol modulates the trigeminovascular system in both men and women.

Methods

We investigated the effect of propranolol (80 mg, 90 min after oral administration, corresponding to Tmax) on the increase in dermal blood flow of the forehead skin (innervated by the trigeminal nerve) by capsaicin application (0.6 mg/mL) and electrical stimulation (0.2–1.0 mA) before and after placebo (grapefruit juice) or propranolol (oral solution diluted in grapefruit juice) in a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled cross‐over study, including healthy males (n = 10) and females on contraceptives (n = 11). Additionally, we compared our results with data from the Dutch IADB.nl prescription database by analyzing the change in triptan use after propranolol prescription in a population similar to our dermal blood flow study subjects (males and females, 20–39 years old).

Results

Dermal blood flow responses to capsaicin were significantly attenuated after propranolol, but not after placebo. When stratifying by sex, no significant changes in the capsaicin‐induced dermal blood flow were observed in females after propranolol, whereas they remained significant in males. Dermal blood flow responses to electrical stimulation were not modified in any case. In our prescription database study, after propranolol, a more pronounced decrease in triptan use was observed in male patients than in female patients.

Interpretation

Propranolol (80 mg) inhibits capsaicin‐induced increases in dermal blood flow in a sex‐dependent manner. In patients, a more pronounced decrease in triptan use is observed in males when compared with females, suggesting an interaction between propranolol and sex steroids in the modulation of the trigeminovascular system.
Sprayable Hydrogel for Instant Sealing of Vascular Anastomosis
Authors: Muñoz Taboada Gonzalo , Dosta Pere , Edelman Elazer R. , Artzi Natalie
Published: August 2022

Bleeding‐related complications following vascular surgeries occur in up to half of the patients—500 000 cases annually in the United States alone. This results in additional procedures, increased mortality rate, and prolonged hospitalization, posing a burden on the healthcare system. Commercially available materials rely, in large, on forming covalent bonds between the tissue and the biomaterial to achieve adhesion. Here, it is shown that a biomaterial based on oxidized alginate and oxidized dextran together with polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer amine provides simultaneous electrostatic and covalent interactions between the biomaterial and the tissue, maximizing adhesion. This study finds that the material withstands supraphysiological pressures (≈300 mmHg) and prevents bleeding in a rabbit aortic puncture model and in a pig carotid bilateral poly(tetrafluoroethylene) graft model—achieving superior performance to commercially available materials such as Tisseel and BioGlue. Material biocompatibility is validated in comprehensive in vitro and in vivo studies in accordance with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, including in vitro neutral red uptake test, subcutaneous implantation in rabbits, ames genotoxicity, and guinea pig maximization test. This material has the potential to provide with adequate seal and reduced complications following complex vascular surgeries, including hard‐to‐seal tissue–graft interfaces.
Resistive Switching of Self‐Assembled Silver Nanowire Networks Governed by Environmental Conditions
Authors: Diaz Schneider Juan Ignacio , Angelomé Paula Cecilia , Granja Leticia Paula , Quinteros Cynthia Paula , Levy Pablo Eduardo , Martínez Eduardo David
Published: August 2022

Percolating networks formed by coated metallic nanowires have recently shown to exhibit memristive properties, opening a path for the development of neuromorphic systems. In this work, the resistive switching phenomena occurring in percolative networks of silver nanowires (AgNWs) coated with a thin layer of polyvinylpyrrolidone is studied. By performing voltage‐driven excursions, the highly‐conductive pristine state irreversibly changes to a higher resistance state. Such an electroforming procedure enables the switching among multiple resistance states. The stability and controllability of the resistance levels are found to be highly dependent on the initial state and the environmental conditions. In low relative humidity environments, the system displays the most controlled switching operation, while in high humidity environments the system shows a high conductance level. Samples with hysteretic response display sharp and spontaneous transitions to different resistance states, exhibiting multilevel memory device features. Both behaviors can be associated with regions of high local concentration of AgNWs that can couple or decouple from the conduction paths according to external stimuli. Conductivity is determined at a fundamental level by electrochemical processes at critical junctions in which water molecules play a key role. These results are relevant for the development of AgNWs‐based electronics and in‐hardware neuromorphic computing.
Converting adults with sickle cell disease from full agonist opioids to buprenorphine: A reliable method with safety and early evidence of reduced acute care utilization
Authors: David Mandy S. , Jones Jennifer , Lauriello Ashley , Nnake Ijeoma , Plazas Montana Manuela , Lasko Kyra , Buri‐Nagua Carlos , Olagbaju Yetunde , Williams Elizabeth , Sears Matthew , Salzberg Benjamin , Lanzkron Sophie M. , Carroll C. Patrick
Published: August 2022

Buprenorphine, a novel opioid with complex pharmacology, is effective for treating pain and is qualitatively safer than high‐dose full agonist opioid therapy; but transitioning to buprenorphine can be technically complex and carries some risk of precipitated withdrawal. We report our clinic's experience converting 36 patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) from full agonist opioids to buprenorphine using a method developed in the past 10 years. Thirty of these patients were induced using a standard outpatient protocol and six were induced during medical admissions. Typically, patients were on high‐dose chronic opioid therapy (COT) with inadequate response, and often with very high acute care utilization. Unlike prior case series, the method of induction, dosing, and management of withdrawal are detailed, as are post‐induction adverse events. There were seven adverse events in the first 3 days following standard induction, and two of which were judged to be definitely related to the induction but none with any lasting sequelae. At 6 months follow‐up, five participants had discontinued buprenorphine (16.67%), and overall acute care visits dropped from a mean of 10.50 (SD 11.35) in the 6 months pre‐induction to 2.89 (SD 3.40) in the 6 months post‐induction. In an appropriately interdisciplinary care setting, buprenorphine shows promise as a safe alternative to COT with early evidence of benefit for high‐utilizing patients with SCD.