bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
South-West monsoon onset forecast by analysis of satellite images using objective dialectical classifier
Authors: Ramanayake S.
Published: January 2024

Arrival of the South-West monsoon in Sri Lankan region is an abrupt phenomenon and with this annual climatological event, many meteorological parameters such as rainfall, wind, pressure etc. would remarkably change. Therefore, determination of the SW monsoon onset is socio economically significant as it influences agriculture and hydropower generation. With the advent of satellite imagery, pattern recognition techniques have been implemented favorably for forecasting the SW Monsoon onset. This study explains a methodology based on the Objective Dialectical Classifier to determine the onset dates utilizing only the clouds images. Results obtained in this research match well with the onset dates determined by the regional authorities.
The impact of COVID-19 on healthcare coverage and access in racial and ethnic minority populations in the United States
Authors: Freelander Lauren , Rickless David S. , Anderson Corey , Curriero Frank , Rockhill Sarah , Mirsajedin Amir , Colón Caleb J. , Lusane Jasmine , Vigo-Valentín Alexander , Wong David
Published: January 2024

This study described spatiotemporal changes in health insurance coverage, healthcare access, and reasons for non-insurance among racial/ethnic minority populations in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic using four national survey datasets. Getis-Ord Gi* statistic and scan statistics were used to analyze geospatial clusters of health insurance coverage by race/ethnicity. Logistic regression was used to estimate odds of reporting inability to access healthcare across two pandemic time periods by race/ethnicity. Racial/ethnic differences in insurance were observed from 2010 through 2019, with the lowest rates being among Hispanic/Latino, African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander populations. Pre-pandemic insurance coverage rates were geographically clustered. The percentage of adults citing change in employment status as the reason for non-insurance increased by about 7% after the start of the pandemic, with a small decrease observed among African American adults. Almost half of adults reported reduced healthcare access in June 2020, with 38.7% attributing reduced access to the pandemic; however, by May 2021, the percent of respondents reporting reduced access for any reason and due to the pandemic fell to 26.9% and 12.7%, respectively. In general, racial/ethnic disparities in health insurance coverage and healthcare access worsened during the pandemic. Although coverage and access improved over time, pre-COVID disparities persisted with African American and Hispanic/Latino populations being the most affected by insurance loss and reduced healthcare access. Cost, unemployment, and eligibility drove non-insurance before and during the pandemic.
Effect of midwife competence training in primary healthcare facilities on obstetric risk early detection
Authors: Zannah Ai Nur , Yuningsih Yuningsih , Sari Asri Iman , Septiyono Eka Afdi
Published: January 2024

Early detection of obstetric risk is the main competence of midwives to anticipate the mother’s inability to adapt during pregnancy. The early detection competence of midwives determines the success of obstetric risk management, preventing pain and even death of mothers and babies. This study aimed to analyze the effect of obstetric risk early detection training on improving the competence of midwives in basic health care facilities. The study employed a quasi-experimental pre-posttest design with a control group. The samples were selected based on inclusion criteria, encompassing independent practice midwives and public health center midwives. The study comprised 27 midwives in the treatment group and 27 in the control group. The determination of and control groups was conducted through simple random sampling. Data analysis involved the use of Mann-Whitney and T-tests. The results indicated a significant difference in the increase in midwife competence within the treatment group post-training (p-value <0.001), with a notable improvement of 34.5%, compared to a 14.53% rise in midwife competence within the control group after reading the training module. Although a slight decrease in competence was observed after 2-4 weeks of training, the posttest values remained considerably higher than the pretest values. These findings underscore the impact of training on midwife competence, emphasizing the continual need for midwives to enhance their skills to elevate the health outcomes for the mothers and children under their care.
Critical Prognostic Factors in Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis: An Observational Study
Authors: Gurram Sandeep , Thambi Magith , Naik Ashwini , Gorthi Sankar Prasad
Published: January 2024

Background:

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) presents with a wide variety of neurological symptoms in various combinations and has a high mortality rate of up to 50%. Recent advances in neuroimaging and therapeutic interventions have brought it down to 10%–20%. The study aims to identify critical prognostic factors associated with poor outcomes in patients with CVST.

Materials and Methods:

All cases of CVST aged >18 years from July 2015 to July 2020 who were not terminally ill and bedridden before the illness were evaluated at the entry point for various risk factors and after 30 days for outcome assessment with the modified Rankin scale (mRS). The outcome was dichotomized, applying mRS <3 as a good outcome, and analyzed with the Chi-square test or the Fischer’s exact test in a bivariate analysis to identify associated variables.

Results:

A total of 149 subjects were studied. Glasgow Comma Scale (GCS) <9 (P<0.001), focal neurological deficits (P = 0.05), the presence of a mass effect (P<0.001), and the need for decompressive hemicraniectomy (P<0.001) were associated with poor outcomes. Age, gender, diagnostic delay, seizures at onset, papilledema, parenchymal lesions, deep sinus involvement, and multiple sinus thrombosis were not associated with a poor outcome.

Conclusion:

In our study, early diagnosis and treatment of CVST is associated with an overall favorable outcome even in the presence of traditional poor prognostic factors such as age, seizures at onset, deep sinus involvement, and multiple sinus involvement in the face of conventional risk factors. A large country-wide prospective study might help in elucidating the poor prognostic factors.
Zirconia-ceramic versus metal-ceramic implant-supported multiunit fixed dental prostheses: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tabarak Naghma , Srivastava Gunjan , Padhiary Subrat Kumar , Manisha Jimmy , Choudhury Gopal Krishna
Published: January 2024

Implant-supported prostheses could serve as a reliable restorative option for partial edentulism. Various restorative materials have been utilized in fabricating these prostheses, impacting both esthetics and peri-implant health. The present systematic review aimed to assess the survival rate and mechanical complications of zirconia ceramic compared to metal-ceramic implant-supported multiunit fixed dental prostheses (FDPs). We conducted searches in online databases such as MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, and Cochrane up until December 2022. A risk-of-bias assessment was done for all the included studies. Data extraction was performed based on the following parameters: author, year, study design, number of implants, abutment material, age range, observation period, incidence of mechanical complications, and survival rate. This systematic review included six studies (four randomized controlled trials and two retrospective studies). The meta-analysis significantly favored metal-ceramic restorations regarding mechanical complications with a risk ratio (RR) value of 1.64 and P = 0.001. Meta-analysis showed no difference in metal-ceramic FDPs in prostheses survival rate (P = 0.63; RR: 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 0.52–3.37; heterogeneity: P = 0.65; I
2: 0%). While metal-ceramic multiunit implant-supported prostheses exhibited fewer mechanical complications compared to zirconia-ceramic prostheses, there was no significant difference in terms of prosthesis survival rate between the two. Hence, both treatments appear to be viable options for long-term implant-supported prostheses.
Efficacy of the combination of myofunctional therapy (lip exercises) and activator high-pull headgear in the closure of interlabial gap in long-face skeletal class II patients with lip incompetence: A 6–8-month longitudinal randomized clinical trial
Authors: Alizade Atyie Safar , Asadi Elmira , Jafari-Naeimi Alireza , Kalbassi Salmeh
Published: January 2024

Background:

Lip incompetence is an important issue in orthodontics. No study has evaluated the effects of the combination of headgear + lip exercises on lip incompetence. Therefore, this study was conducted.

Materials and Methods:

This was a longitudinal randomized clinical trial on 29 subjects (16 controls and 13 experimental subjects). Both groups were treated with standardized activator high-pull headgear (and followed up monthly) for 6–8 months. In the experimental group, patients were also instructed to practice certain lip exercises 3 sessions a day, 5 times per session. Pre-/post-treatment interlabial gap, upper lip length and vermilion height, lower lip length and vermilion height, nasolabial angle, and profile convexity angle were measured clinically and photographically, immediately before treatment and after it. Data were analyzed using paired/unpaired t-tests (α = 0.025) and partial correlation coefficient controlling for the intervention type (α = 0.05).

Results:

Lip exercise plus activator headgear significantly changed/improved all parameters (P ≤ 0.006) over the 6–8-month course of treatment. Activator headgear alone changed/improved only 4 parameters: interlabial gap, upper and lower lip lengths, the lower lip vermilion height, and profile convexity (P ≤ 0.008). Compared to the control (activator headgear alone), in the experimental group, the changes observed in the interlabial gap closure (P = 0.011), upper lip lengthening (P = 0.002), and upper lip vermilion lengthening (P = 0.017) were significantly greater. Convexity angle corrections were more successful in cooperative patients (R = 0.469, P = 0.012). Cases with smaller pretreatment nasolabial angles may experience more changes in this angle after treatment (R = 0.581, P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

The addition of lip exercises to activator high-pull headgear can boost activator headgear’s efficacy in treating lip incompetence.
Effectiveness of first-line nurse manager authentic leadership training program on nurses’ attitudes in medical and surgical care units
Authors: El- Fattah Mohamed Aly Nagah Abd , El-Shanawany Safaa M. , Ghanem Maha , Mohamed Hana Abass Ahmed , Lotfy Wael M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Authentic leadership behavior is considered a mandatory strategy for enhancing the nurse manager capabilities and practice as well as achieving positive nurses’ attitudes.

Aim

The current study aims to investigate the effectiveness of authentic leadership programs for first-line nurse managers on nurses’ attitudes, including nursing care self-efficacy and trust.

Design

A quasi-experimental research design

Sample

In all, 36 first-line nurse managers and 300 nurses were recruited for the current study.

Setting

Medical and Surgical Care Units of the Alexandria Main University Hospital.

Tools

Two first-line nurse manager questionnaires on authentic leadership and nursing care self-efficacy and nurses’ trust questionnaires were used to collect data within the implementation of an authentic leadership program.

Results

There was a statistically significant improvement in both the first-line nurse managers’ knowledge and self-assessment of authentic leadership that led to the improvement of nursing care self-efficacy and nurses’ trust after implementing the present program. Significant progress was shown in mean scores of first-line nurse managers’ knowledge and assessment of authentic leadership and nursing care self-efficacy and nurses’ trust throughout the post and follow-up programs in comparison to preprogram evaluation.

Conclusions

The present authentic leadership program had a positive effect on first-line nurse managers’ knowledge and self-assessment of authentic leadership that led to improving nursing care self-efficacy and nurses’ trust.

Implications

The current program is essential not only to nurse managers for acting within ethical and moral principles, but also is essential for nursing care and health-care organizations as a whole.
Effectiveness of rational-emotive behavior therapy on self objectification among psychotic females
Authors: Mohammed Hosnia S. , Behilak Sahar E. g. , Hassan Shymaa M. S.
Published: January 2024

Background

Female’self-objectification (SO) is a cognitive process and could affect one’s way of behaving and thinking positively or negatively. Rational emotive therapy (RET) brings to the spotlight and deals with those irrational beliefs or self-defeating thoughts as acquired by the SO.

Aim

It was aimed to examine the effectiveness of Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) on SO among Psychotic females.

Design

It utilized the quasi-experimental design.

Setting

It was conducted at inpatient of female’s psychiatric unite of Psychiatry, Neurology and Neurosurgery hospital at Assiut University Hospital.

Patients

It involved 70 psychotic females, 35 participants were assigned to the experimental group and 35 participants to the control group.

Tools

The study’s measures consisted of four scales involving: (1) Demographic and clinical data sheet, (2) SO Questionnaire, (3) Body shame (BSH) scale and (4) Body-esteem (BES) scale.

Results

There were statistically significant differences between experimental group and control group in relation to the two subscales of SO scale. Furthermore, the mean value of the body shame score of experimental group was statistically significant decreased after intervention in inverse to the control group. Besides, there were no statistically significant differences between the three subscales of BES for both groups.

Conclusion

Based on the results, the REBT approach to somewhat successfully reduces SO and BSH among psychotic females.

Recommendations

As an alternative to traditional psychoeducation and psychotherapies, REBT is used to help patients who struggle SO, BSH and low BES.
Facilitating and Inhibiting Factors of Clinical Knowledge Sharing among Medical Specialists in University Hospitals
Authors: Mazaheri Elaheh , Alavi Mousa , Samouei Rahele , Ashrafi-rizi Hasan
Published: January 2024

Background:

Clinical knowledge sharing (CKS) is one of the key points of knowledge management in the field of health and significantly increases the quality of care and patient safety. It also provides the achievement of an efficient system in hospitals and educational and treatment centers involved in clinical processes in order to make the best clinical decisions. The purpose of this research is to identify the factors that facilitate and inhibit CKS among medical specialists in the educational-treatment hospitals in Iran.

Methods:

This was an applied qualitative study with the conventional content analysis method conducted in 2022. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview. The participants were 13 medical specialists and sub-specialists working in educational-treatment hospitals of the country, who were selected by purposeful and snowball sampling. The method of data analysis was based on Graneheim and Lundman’s five-step method, which was followed by codes, sub-categories, main categories, and classifications.

Results:

After conducting the interviews and assessing their content, finally, 193 codes were extracted, which were identified in two general classification of facilitating and inhibiting factors with 92 and 101 concepts, respectively. Facilitating factors in the three main categories of “education in the context of culture, society and university”, “planning and implementation management”, and “behavioral-motivational factors” and inhibiting factors in the four main categories of “infrastructural, policy-making and cultural challenges”, “technological and scientific infrastructural challenges”, “personality-behavioral challenges”, and “financial and non-financial motivations” were classified.

Conclusions:

The participants of the research pointed out the effective role of CKS in keeping them up-to-date in the use of diagnostic, therapeutic, and even drug prescribing methods. According to their belief, knowledge sharing (KS) in the clinical setting will reduce diagnostic errors and cause the primordial prevention of diseases as well as increase the knowledge and awareness of the society members.
Weaning from Venovenous Mode Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Coronavirus Disease 2019-Related Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Pan Chih-Hsi , Peng Chung-Kan , Tsai Chen-Liang , Shen Chih-Hao
Published: January 2024

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has caused a worldwide pandemic. Approximately 5% of victims develop severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and some require extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). However, weaning patients with COVID-19-related ARDS from ECMO are challenging. Here, we report a COVID-19 case with severe ARDS that received venovenous ECMO to maintain adequate gas exchange for more than 4 weeks. We performed prolonged prone position ventilation and airway pressure release ventilation, and the patient was successfully weaned off ECMO.
Leiomyoma of the Ankle
Authors: Hsieh Chang-Yin , Chen Yuan-Yuei , Wang Chih-Chien
Published: January 2024

Leiomyomas, also known as fibroids, are benign tumors originating from smooth muscle and can arise in soft tissue, most commonly in the uterus or bladder. Those that arise in the extremities usually form subcutaneous masses. Leiomyoma of the foot has rarely been reported, and leiomyoma of the ankle is even rarer. A 52-year-old male presented with a tender nodule on the lateral aspect of his right ankle. The tumor was surgically excised and was shown to be a leiomyoma.
Experience with Modified Makuuchi Incision in the Surgical Treatment of Huge Renal Tumor: A Single Institution’s Experience
Authors: Yen Wei-Chen , Shih Meng-Hung , Ting Hui-Kung , Juho Yu-Cing , Cha Tai-Lung , Kao Chien-Chang
Published: January 2024

Background:

Surgical removal of huge renal and retroperitoneal tumors, such as adrenal cortical carcinoma or renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava (IVC) invasion, remains a challenge for urologists.

Aim:

Herein, we describe our experience with the modified Makuuchi incision for huge renal and retroperitoneal tumors.

Methods:

We applied the modified Makuuchi incision in 10 patients with a huge renal or retroperitoneal tumor. Another 11 patients with a huge renal or retroperitoneal tumor using different surgical incisions other than modified Makuuchi incision were collected for comparison. The modified Makuuchi incision of the abdomen is initiated in the cephalad to the xiphoid, extended 1 cm above the umbilicus, and then extended laterally to the lateral flank. Through the incision, we mobilized the colon, and when the renal space was seen, the tumor was removed. If an invasion of a nearby organ occurred, a general or cardiovascular surgery specialist was consulted for combined surgery. The patients’ age ranged from 43 to 82 years (three men and seven women).

Results:

The modified Makuuchi incision provided good and rapid exposure. No unexpected organ injuries occurred during surgery. There were no wound-related complications, such as dehiscence or incisional hernia, after 3 months of follow-up. Partial hepatectomy, splenectomy, distal pancreatectomy, and thrombectomy of the IVC thrombus were performed through the same incision.

Conclusion:

Our experience demonstrated that the modified Makuuchi incision is a good choice for patients with huge renal and retroperitoneal tumors, even those with nearby organ invasion.
Prevalence of Overweight/Obesity among Elderly Persons in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Daniel Roy Arokiam , Kalaivani Mani , Aggarwal Praveen , Gupta Sanjeev Kumar
Published: January 2024

Background:

The increasing development of overweight/obesity among elderly persons in India, combined with the aging population puts them at risk of coronary heart diseases, thereby reducing life expectancy. The data on the prevalence of overweight/obesity among elderly persons in India is varied (2%–60%). Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis were aimed to obtain a holistic estimate of the prevalence of overweight/obesity (body mass index ≥25 kg/m2) among elderly persons in India.

Methods:

A systematic electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar to retrieve community-based studies which reported the prevalence of overweight/obesity among elderly persons in India, without any date or language restriction. To estimate the pooled prevalence and heterogeneity, the random-effects model and I
2 statistic methods were employed. We also conducted subgroup analyses, meta-regression, and sensitivity analysis.

Results:

We included 33 studies in this meta-analysis, which comprised a total of 60,006 participants. The pooled prevalence of overweight/obesity among elderly persons in India was 21.5% (95% confidence interval: 17.1%–26.2%, I
2-99.3%). The subgroup analysis based on gender and study setting did not reveal the cause of heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis after removing a large study did not change the pooled estimate.

Conclusions:

One-fifth of the elderly persons in India are overweight/obese. Strengthening of primary health care by training health care providers, screening for obesity combined with appropriate management is vital to address the problem of overweight and obesity among the elderly population to reduce obesity-related complications and thereby achieve healthy aging.
An Epidemiological Study of Poisoning: A Follow-up Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Sharma Arvind , Patel Sunita , Maiti Arindam , Mishra Ashish
Published: January 2024

Background:

As per systematic review and meta analysis, 63% of poisoning in India were due to pesticides from 2010 to 2020. Poisoning can be suicidal, homicidal, or accidental. The morbidity or complications caused by poisoning is still a major public health problem in India.

Aim:

Therefore, this study aimed to assess the epidemiological profile of different types of poison consumed, factors associated, and outcomes of poisoning among the victims.

Subjects and Methods:

It was a follow-up study conducted for 6 months (September 2022 to February 2023) among 315 victims reported to tertiary care hospital in Jabalpur. Data collection was done by interview technique using a pretested self-structured questionnaire consisting of sociodemographic profile of the victim, information regarding poison and poisoning, duration of stay in the hospital, and outcome. Data entered in MS-Excel, descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was performed by IBM-SPSS 23.0.

Results:

In this study, it was observed that among 315 victims, the maximum belonged to the age group of 21–45 years (66.67%), with male predominance (65.71%) with the majority of poisoning was due to pesticides (48.57%), followed by tablets overdose (17.78%), then by Insecticides (12.06%) and Rodenticides (10.16%). It was noted that a maximum of the victims had a suicidal (74.29%) mode of poisoning, followed by accidental (13.97%), then homicidal (7.30%), followed by stupefaction (4.44%).

Conclusion:

In this study, it was observed that the majority of victims had a suicidal tendency to poison with pesticides, with the majority staying within 3–5 days in the hospital with maximum recovery.
Complementary Feeding Practices and Nutritional Status of Children Aged 6–23 Months Residing in an Urban Slum of Mumbai
Authors: Majgaonkar Surbhi , Karande Vishal , Sadawarte Deepika Mandar
Published: January 2024

Background:

Optimal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices improve the overall health, development, and nutritional status of children <2 years of age. Children are at higher risk of malnutrition during the period of complementary feeding, especially those living in slums due to poor living conditions. Unhealthy food consumption is increasing among young children. These foods displace nutritious foods and can lead to malnutrition. This study aims to assess complementary feeding practices and nutritional status of children aged 6–23 months residing in an urban slum of Mumbai.

Methodology:

The study was a community-based, cross-sectional study, conducted at the field practice area of Urban Health and Training Center, Department of Community Medicine, Seth GSMC and KEMH. Mothers of children aged 6–23 months of age were interviewed using IYCF indicators for complementary feeding and unhealthy food consumption. Length and weight of children were recorded to assess nutritional status using Z-score. The sample size was 140.

Results:

Timely introduction of complementary feeds was found in 67.2% of children. Minimum dietary diversity was adequate in 34.3% of children, minimum meal frequency in 72.9% of children, and minimum acceptable diet in 27.1% of children. The prevalence of wasting was 23.6%, underweight 36.4%, and stunting 43.6%, as per Z-score. Unhealthy food consumption was present in 62.9% of study participants. Dietary inadequacy was found to be significantly associated with underweight status of the child, unhealthy food consumption, and lack of reception of counseling for complementary feeding (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Dietary diversity and dietary adequacy were unsatisfactory in most children. A high prevalence of stunting was observed.
A Cross-sectional Study to Assess the Magnitude of Aggression and its Associated Factor in School-going Adolescents in Shastri Nagar Area, Patna, Bihar
Authors: Bharati Dharmvir Ranjan , Choudhary Sanjay Kumar , Prasad Nidhi , Kumar Sanjay
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Aggression has not been identified as a behavioral problem, and therefore, it has not been addressed properly. Due to the paucity of relevant data and the defunct school mental health program, it is still not an area of concern. Mental health has been stigmatized, and dependence on specialized care for every problem is overburdening the health-care system.

Materials and Methods:

Adolescents from Class 6th to 11th were enrolled in the study, and data on sociodemographic, personal detail, and aggression detail were collected.

Results:

The prevalence of anger was 27.2%, and diet, harassment, age, number of family members, screen time, depression, and body mass index were found to be significant factors.

Conclusion:

Adolescence which is the transition phase should be identified as a phase of physio-socio-psychological management. Managing and coping with varied issues can affect mental health which needs identification and guidance. Life skill education and curriculum in school can aid in problem-solving.
Malaria infection and associated household level risks in an urban and rural areas of West Bengal, India
Authors: Bag Noor Islam , Paul Bobby , Bhattacharyya Madhumita , Sarkar Subhrajit
Published: January 2024

Background & objectives:

Malaria is one of the critical public health problems globally as well as in India. Recent times have seen an increase in the importance of the possible effects of environmental and demographic factors on the local transmission of malaria. We conducted a community-level study between urban and rural areas to find out the factors associated with malaria infection.

Methods:

A community-based observational cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2020 and September 2022 among 330 households from urban areas of Chetla, Kolkata and rural areas of Singur district of West Bengal state of India. Households were selected by two stage random sampling method. Study was done by face-to-face interview, review of medical records and observation of the households. SPSS software was used for data analysis. Multivariable logistic regression (hierarchical model) was done and p-value equal to or less than 0.05 was taken as significant.

Results:

The prevalence of malaria infection among participants and household level risks of malaria infection were found to be 6.1%, 1.8% and 18.8%, 6.7%, respectively in the urban and rural areas. Significant predictors of malaria infection were households with ≥5 family members [AOR=2.91{CI (1.19-7.15)}], households not using any mosquito protective measures [AOR=3.71{CI (1.04-13.13)}], presence of mosquito breeding places [AOR=4.93{CI (1.53-15.93)}], absence of effective window screen [AOR=3.19{CI (1.16-8.71)}], absence of separate kitchen [AOR=2.38{CI (1.06-5.34)}], and inadequate lighting condition in the house [AOR=4.35{CI (1.78-10.64)}].

Interpretation & conclusion:

This study provides important insights into the epidemiology of malaria in a high and low-transmission setting in West Bengal, India. Intensified efforts strengthening community mobilization for preventing breeding places for mosquito. Policy should strengthen investment in housing programs that may complement reduction of malaria transmission. Disease reduction effects of Government and local non-governmental organizations should be directed towards those areas in order to decrease disease load.
Vector-control potential of Unani medicines: A review of classical Unani texts and contemporary scientific literature
Authors: Shahabuddin Fauzia , Itrat Malik , Kumar Sampath
Published: January 2024

Background & objectives:

Vector-borne diseases pose substantial global health challenges, with a notable impact on India. Effective vector control strategies are crucial to mitigating these diseases as there are no effective vaccines available. Synthetic chemicals are widely used but concerns about safety and environmental impact have prompted exploration of alternative natural solutions. Unani medicine offers a potential source of natural products. This study aims to systematically review classical Unani texts and contemporary scientific literature to evaluate the vector control potential of Unani medicines.

Methods:

A comprehensive review of classical Unani texts was carried out to compile data on herbal and mineral substances suggested in Unani medicine for control of insects. Furthermore, electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct were explored for research studies evaluating the insect repellent, larvicidal, and insecticidal activities of the Unani medicines. Time restriction was not imposed to ensure comprehensive retrieval of pertinent and up-to-date information.

Results:

From classical Unani texts, 29 drugs were identified for control of insects, primarily of plant origin from diverse botanical families. Recent scientific investigations have confirmed the insect-repellent, insecticidal, and larvicidal activities of 19 of these Unani medicines against various insect species, including mosquitoes.

Interpretation & conclusion:

These findings underscore the potential of Unani medicines as a natural source for vector control. However, further research is essential to explore mechanism, delivery methods, and optimal concentrations for developing effective vector-control formulations.
Molecular docking of daunorubicin and etoposide drugs against Leishmania donovani: A theoretical study
Authors: Shakoori Afnan Mohammed , Alhakami Fatemah , Sindi Ghadir , Alyahyawi Areej Yahya , Alhazzaa Rasha Abdullah
Published: January 2024

Background & objectives:

The human blood parasite Leishmania donovani causes visceral leishmaniasis or grayish discoloration of the skin (black fever/kala-azar). Antitumor drugs such as daunorubicin and etoposide can help to treat such diseases. The computational approach is used to find a better interaction of drugs with the active site of the protein and help to design new drugs.

Methods:

In this study, we have optimized two antitumor drugs, daunorubicin and etoposide. We studied frontier molecular orbitals, electrostatic potential (MEP) maps, and the natural bond order analysis of these anticancer drugs, followed by molecular docking with Leishmania donovani protein.

Results:

The three-dimensional structure of MapK from Leishmania donovani is LDBPK-331470. Our computational calculations reveal that daunorubicin and etoposide drugs can have an affinity with MapK from Leishmania donovani.

Interpretation & conclusion:

Our study predicted that both daunorubicin and etoposide could have a similar affinity with the protein (UvrD) Leishmania donovani.
Collision of Ovarian Teratoma and Thecoma: Report of a Rare Case and Review af Literatures
Authors: Emeka Menkiti F. , Victor Onyiaorah I. , Chukwudi Akabuike J.
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Collision tumor (CT) is the coexistence of two adjacent but histologically distinct and nonadmixed tumor in the same tissue. We report a rare case of ovarian CT: mature teratoma (MT) with thecoma, as well as provide an extensive review of 47 published cases. Ovarian CTs occur in both pre- and postmenopausal women with nonspecific clinic-radiologic symptoms. Prognosis is dependent on the most aggressive component. All the cases, including the index case, were diagnosed post-operatively. Adequate sampling by pathologists and retrospective review and documentation of image features of histologically diagnosed cases by radiologists will enhance both proper and preoperative diagnosis of this lesion. This is the most extensive review on ovarian CTs to the best of our knowledge.
Body Composition Analysis using Karada Scan in Indian Collegiate Population: An Observational Study
Authors: Singh Amrinder , Dangat Disha P. , Shenoy Shweta , Sandhu Jaspal Singh
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

There is an increased prevalence of obesity which is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and mortality risk. Because of the large population, a preferred method of measuring body fat should be simple, portable, and reliable. This study was aimed at measuring the body composition of Indian adults using the Karada scan Omron HBF-701 model.

Methods:

64 healthy adults participated in this study including 30 males and 34 females with a mean age of 21 ± 2.60 years and a mean body mass index of 22.58 ± 2.85 kg/m2. The measurement was taken with the prescribed guidelines.

Results:

The results included mean fat % 25.31 ± 6.01, body age 28.96 ± 8.29, resting metabolism 1422.13 ± 227.86 kcal, visceral fat % 4.90 ± 2.97, subcutaneous fat % 19.74 ± 6.09, total muscle mass 31.20 ± 6.27, arms fat % 31.27 ± 10.81, trunk fat % of 16.89 ± 5.43, and legs fat % 29.43 ± 9.45.

Conclusion:

This study concluded that the Karada scan is a novel and rapid method to reliably measure the different variables of body composition.
A Case of Post-Delivery Vaginal Atresia
Authors: Rudra Samar , Singireddy Nikhila , Khose Prajakta
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Postpartum genital tract adhesions are unusual. They can be labial or vaginal adhesions and most of the time, require surgical intervention. Genital tract trauma, lacerations, and unsupervised delivery have been a few known causes of such adhesions. Here, we report a case of vaginal adhesions following difficult labor that presented with dyspareunia for 1 year. Pelvic examination, ultrasonography, and MRI revealed vaginal stenosis. The patient was successfully treated with surgical adhesiolysis and administration of antibiotics.
The Reaction of CO2 absorption in MEA(monoethanolamine) aqueous Solution: A Theoretical Study on the Effect of Neighboring Molecules
Authors: Kim Sunkyung
Published: January 2024

Objectives : CO2 is one of the greenhouse gases that cause the global warming. Alkanolamine aqueous solutions are frequently used as a chemical absorption solvent for post combustion capture process. The reaction of CO2 and MEA(monoethanolamine) was studied by theoretical analysis to describe the effect of neighboring molecules.Methods : The reaction of CO2 absorption in MEA aqueous solution was investigated using DFT (density functional theory) method. The 14 reaction models were designed according to the arrangement of reactant and neighboring molecules.Results and Discussion : The structures of reactant, TS (transition state) and product were analyzed in perspective of the geometry, thermodynamics and kinetics. The neighboring molecules stabilized the structures of reactant complex due to increasing intermolecular interaction (hydrogen bond) between reactants and these molecules. The structures of reactant complex were change to the arrangement that MEA can easily react with CO2 . However, the neighboring molecules would slightly affect the reaction pathway of the structures of TS and product. The activation energy and TS structure were differed according to the type of hydrogen atom transfer, not the effect of neighboring molecules. The neighboring molecules seems to work slightly in the aspect of chemical kinetics of the reaction between CO2 and MEA in aqueous solution.
NGHIÊN CỨU CHẾ TẠO THAN SINH HỌC TỪ PHẾ PHẨM VỎ CAM ỨNG DỤNG LÀM CHẤT XÚC TÁC CHO PHẢN ỨNG TỔNG HỢP DẦU DIESEL SINH HỌC
Authors: ĐỖ QUÝ DIỄM  , BÙI DUY TUYÊN  , NGUYỄN VĂN SƠN  , VÕ THÀNH CÔNG
Published: January 2024

Trong nghiên cứu, phế phẩm vỏ cam được nhiệt hóa yếm khí tại nhiệt độ 450 0C, thời gian 60 phút để chế tạo than sinh học, ký hiệu là mẫu BCO. Sau đó, BCO được tẩm lần lượt với dung dịch KOH và K2CO3 nồng độ 2M thu được chất xúc tác, ký hiệu là mẫu BCO-K. Các đặc tính cấu trúc và thành phần của BCO và BCO-K được xác định lần lượt bằng phương pháp phân tích hiện đại như là nhiễu xạ tia X (XRD), quang phổ hồng ngoại biến đổi Fourier (FTIR), kính hiển vi điện tử quét (SEM), hấp phụ Bruner-Emmett-Teller (BET). Các kết quả phân tích đã chỉ ra rằng BCO-K có hoạt tính xúc tác cao hơn BCO. Do đó, BCO-K được sử dụng làm chất xúc tác cho phản ứng tổng hợp sản phẩm diesel sinh học. Kết quả đo đạc các chỉ tiêu của diesel sinh học trong nghiên cứu này phù hợp với tiêu chuẩn diesel sinh học thương phẩm ASTM-D6751 và dầu diesel khoáng TCVN 5689: 2005. Hơn nữa, tính toán kết quả hiệu suất của phản ứng thu được là 72,50 %. Những kết quả này cho thấy rằng chất xúc tác được nghiên cứu từ phế phẩm vỏ cam là một minh chứng tiềm năng đến quá trình tổng hợp sản phẩm diesel sinh học thay thế cho dầu diesel khoáng trong công nghiệp tương lai.
KHẢO SÁT HÀM LƯỢNG FLAVONOID, PHENOLIC VÀ KHẢ NĂNG GÂY CHẾT TẾ BÀO UNG THƯ VÚ 4T1 CỦA CAO CHIẾT LÁ TRẦU KHÔNG
Authors: NGUYỄN THỊ KIM ANH  , CAO ĐOÀN HUYÊN  , NGUYỄN HOÀNG LÂM  , LÂM HOÀNG ANH THƯ  , HOÀNG THÙY DƯƠNG
Published: January 2024

Ung thư vú là một loại ung thư gây tử vong hàng đầu ở phụ nữ. Các hoạt chất có nguồn gốc thực vật có thể ức chế sự phát triển của tế bào ung thư có thể sử dụng để thay thế hoặc hỗ trợ trong việc điều trị, bên cạnh các biện pháp hóa trị, xạ trị và phẫu thuật. Lá trầu không vốn được sử dụng trong các bài thuốc dân gian ở Việt Nam với nhiều tác dụng điều trị. Trong nghiên cứu này, cao chiết ethanol, hexan và ethyl acetate từ lá trầu sẽ được khảo sát thành phần flavonoid, phenolic và nghiên cứu khả năng gây độc tế bào ung thư vú dòng 4T1. Kết quả cho thấy hàm lượng flavonoid là 49.71, 37.40, 21.34 mg QE/g và hàm lượng phenolic là 684.23, 368.34, 318.82 GAE/g ở lần lượt các cao ethanol, hexan, ethyl acetate. Ở nồng độ 25 μg/ml cả 2 loại cao chiết ethanol và ethyl acetate đều gây độc mạnh, giết chết hầu hết tế bào ung thư, trong khi đó không có ảnh hưởng gì tới khả năng phát triển của tế bào bình thường fibroblast.
TIỀM NĂNG CHỐNG VIÊM KHỚP DẠNG THẤP CỦA CHIẾT XUẤT ETHANOL TỪ QUẢ SƠN CHI (Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis) TRÊN MÔ HÌNH CHUỘT NHẮT TRẮNG (Mus musculus)
Authors: TRẦN THỊ PHƯƠNG NHUNG*  , NGUYỄN THỊ TÂM NHƯ  , TRẦN THỊ NGỌC YẾN  , NGUYỄN THỊ NGỌC DUYÊN  , NGUYỄN NGỌC THẢO UYÊN  , DƯƠNG THỊ NGỌC TRÂN  , ĐẶNG THỊ KIỀU PHƯƠNG  , ĐỖ THỊ THU THỦY  , BÙI NHẬT TRƯỜNG  , TRẦN MỘNG THƠ  , VŨ ĐỨC THÀNH  , NGUYỄN HOÀN VI  , NGUYỄN KHÁNH VĂN  , TRẦN THỊ ÁI VI  , HUỲNH VĂN PHƯỚC  , ĐOÀN MINH TÂM
Published: January 2024

Cây sơn chi (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) thể hiện tiềm năng chống oxy hóa, kháng khuẩn và chống viêm. Quả G. jasminoides được ghi nhận như là một vị thuốc dân gian để điều trị các bệnh khác nhau như giải độc, lợi tiểu, bệnh đường tiêu hóa, lở loét và sưng khớp,v..v... Tuy nhiên, tác dụng chữa bệnh của chiết xuất ethanol từ quả sơn chi (EtGJ) về viêm khớp dạng thấp (rheumatoid arthritis-RA), chứng rối loạn viêm tự miễn vẫn chưa được làm sáng tỏ. Trong nghiên cứu này, tác dụng chống viêm khớp của EtGJ đối với bệnh viêm khớp do thuốc bổ trợ hoàn toàn của Freund (Complete Freund's Adjuvant-CFA) gây ra ở chuột lần đầu được ghi nhận. Cao chiết quả sơn chi được chiết xuất bằng dung môi ethanol và sàng lọc hóa học thực vật bằng phương pháp định tính. CFA được tiêm trong da để gây viêm khớp dạng thấp ở chuột Swiss albino. Đánh giá mức độ nghiêm trọng của viêm khớp lâm sàng được đo bằng phương pháp chấm điểm viêm khớp. Đánh giá mức độ nghiêm trọng mô học của viêm khớp được đo bằng phương pháp đánh giá mô bệnh khớp. Đường kính và chu vi khớp được đo bằng thước cặp Vernier kỹ thuật số. Điều trị bằng EtGJ qua đường uống (liều dùng 100, 200 và 300 mg/kg) đã cải thiện tình trạng RA của chuột bằng cách giảm lượng bạch cầu, yếu tố thấp khớp và phản ứng protein C, giảm đường kính và chu vi khớp cũng như giảm điểm số viêm khớp. EtGJ cũng ức chế sự hình thành mảng pannus, giảm sự xâm nhập và tăng sinh của các tế bào viêm, phục hồi sụn khớp trong các mô bệnh khớp. Điều trị bằng đường uống với EtGJ đã cải thiện tình trạng RA của chuột thông qua các hoạt động chống viêm. Kết quả nghiên cứu hiện tại cho thấy chiết xuất ethanol từ quả sơn chi có tiềm năng trong điều trị bệnh viêm khớp dạng thấp.
Differences in Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms among High School Students in light of Some Variables
Authors: Alshorman Emran Ahmad , Jaradat Abdul-Kareem M.
Published: January 2024

The present study investigated whether there are differences in intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and obsessive-compulsive symptoms by gender, academic stream and grade level. The sample of the study consisted of 512 high school students in Northern Almazar District, Jordan. Data were collected using three scales measuring intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Three-way ANOVA, and three-way MANOVA were used. This study used an analytical-descriptive methodology. Results showed that males scored significantly higher on the intrinsic motivation scale, scientific stream students scored significantly higher on the intrinsic motivation scale, literary stream students scored significantly higher on the extrinsic motivation scale, twelfth grade students scored significantly higher on the extrinsic motivation scale, literary stream students scored significantly higher on the slowness subscale of the obsessive-compulsive scale, and twelfth grade students scored significantly higher on the doubting subscale of the obsessive-compulsive scale.
The Principles of Democracy that are included in the Social, Citizenship, and Civic Education Textbooks, and the Level of Practicing them By the Teachers from the Viewpoint of the School Principals in Jordan
Authors: Al-Hawamdeh Basma Muhammad Mahmoud , Aljarrah Abdallah Azzam
Published: January 2024

This study aimed at identifying the democratic principles that are included in the social, citizenship, and civic education textbooks from first to tenth grade. This study also aimed at identifying the implications of the social education teachers from the of principals point of view. Therefore, for the purpose of this study, the researchers have analyzed the content of these books to answer the first question of this study. In addition, the researchers developed an instrument to distinguish the highest level of practicing the social studies' teachers who practice the principles of democracy. It was a questionnaire consisting of (41) items. The sample of this study included (750) principals randomly selected. 

Results of the current study revealed that the social, citizenship, and civic education textbooks for the first to tenth grade contain four fundamental concepts of democracy, namely: freedom, justice, equality, and classroom teaching practices. The study also indicated that the teachers of the social studies gained an advanced level of practicing the principles of democracy. The current study recommended the necessity of reconsidering the mechanism of improving the Jordanian curricula, especially at the level of the social studies curricula, which should consist of the principles and concepts of democracy in a more comprehensive manner.
The Effectiveness of Leadership among Female Secondary School Principals within the Green Line in Light of some Variables
Authors: Athamneh Almazah Mahmoud , Abu Ashour Khalifeh M.
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to identify the effectiveness of leadership among secondary school principals within the Green Line in light of (gender, academic qualification, experience, and job title) variables. The study used the descriptive survey methodology, and the questionnaire as a study tool after confirming its validity and reliability, the participants were (444) individuals (346 teachers, and 98 female principals) who were selected using stratified random sampling according to job title variable. The results showed a high degree of leadership effectiveness among female secondary school principals within the Green Line from the participants' viewpoint over all domains, and that there were statistically significant differences at the level of significance (α = 0.05) in the domains of self-skills and administrative skills according to the gender variable in favor of females, as well as on the job title variable in favor of female principals, and there were no statistically significant differences according to the variables of academic qualification and experience. The study recommended reconsidering the mechanisms of appointing principals in secondary schools and giving females the opportunity to take over the leadership of secondary schools due to the skills that they possess.
CONCEPT OF OJAS, BALA AND IMMUNOMODULATION W.S.R. TO KASHYAP
SAMHITA: A REVIEW
Authors: Nayak Renuka , Chandravanshi Lowkesh , Kumar Dash Manoj , Mohan Bhatt Lalit
Published: January 2024

Not so long ago, we faced the worst pandemics in history, so immunity and immunomodulation have been quite a topic of interest recently. Parallelly, Ayurveda describes the concept of Ojas, Bala and Vyadhikshyamtva, which can be maintained in its best state by dietary supplements and Rasayana. Acharya Kashyap has described Ojas as the yellowish-reddish-white matter present in the Hridaya, devoid of Sleshma. It flourishes by the food and herbs having Snidgha, Laghu Guna, Madhura rasa, and Madhura vipaka. In Kashyap Samhita, a limited description of Ojas is found compared to other ancient mainstream scriptures. Some special chapters devoted to Ojas and Bala (immunity in today’s scenario) are Lehana, Lasuna, Satapushpa and Satavarikalp. Lehana in the form of Swarnprashana is one of the best immunomodulators available in Ayurveda, followed by regular dietary intake of Milk (having all qualities of Ojas). In this review article, efforts have been made to highlight the de-scription of Ojas, Bala, Vyadhiskyamatva and Rasayan in Kashyap Samhita.