bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of a ‘COVID Nurse Assistant’ application on patient satisfaction in COVID isolation rooms
Authors: Ningrum Evi Harwiati , Kartika Annisa Wuri , Wibisono Ahmad Hasyim , Rahmawati Ike Nesdia , Noviyanti Linda Wieke , Ahsan Ahsan , Putra Kuswantoro Rusca , Setyawan Ungky Agus , Andayani Lusia Titik , Widayanti Ririn , Purnanto Arif Jati , Subroto Gatot , Laili Nurul , Anderson Judith
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a major shift in the healthcare delivery system. With the limited personal protection equipment and a nursing service shortage caused ineffective nursing care delivered to COVID-19 patients. Wearing full personal protective equipment (PPE) hinders nurse-patients communication and inhibiting the achievement of treatment goals. This study aims to examine the effect of a ‘COVID Nurse Assistant’ (CNA) application on patient satisfaction in COVID-19 isolation rooms.
Design and Methods: This was a comparative study with an experimental and control group design. The participants were patients confirmed positive with COVID-19 receiving care in an isolation room for at least three days and were fully conscious. The intervention used was accessing health information related to COVID-19 through a mobile-friendly application namely-‘COVID Nurse Assistant’. The instrument used was the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (PSQ-18) translated into Bahasa Indonesia. In addition, an independent t-Test was used to perform statistical analysis.
Results and Discussions: A total 158 respondents completed the online survey among of 219 eligible patients (72% response rate). The score in the general and financial satisfaction sub-scales reported by patients in the experimental group were significantly different from the control with p-values of 0.032 and 0.018 respectively. However, other subscales were not significantly different between the two groups.
Conclusions: The implementation of the CNA online application has noteworthy implications on patient satisfaction. However, further studies examining similar system in different clinical areas would provide better information for the optimal use of technology in patient education.
The efficacy of Raspberry Pi-based automatic voice message education on knowledge level and prevention behavior of high-risk population
Authors: Lukitasari Mifetika , Windarti Wahyu Indah , Fatma Endah Panca Lydia , Suharsono Tony , Nugroho Dwi Adi
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased in Indonesia. Preventive measures are believed to break the chain of transmission of COVID-19. Therefore, increasing knowledge through health education is essential to improve preventive behavior in the community. The study aims to determine the efficacy of implementing health education using Raspberry Pi based automatic voice massages in increasing high risk populations’ knowledge and prevention behavior.

Design and Methods: This study was a quasi-interventional method with a pre-posttest research design and a non-equivalent control group, consisting of 30 respondents in each group. Control group received health education through leaflet sharing, while intervention group received health education through Raspberry-pi based automatic voice massages.

Results: This study showed that there were no significant different in knowledge between control and intervention group after obtaining health education. Meanwhile, the intervention group showed higher score in knowledge regarding COVID-19. Moreover, the prevention behavior was significantly improved in both groups after acquiring health education through leaflets and automatic voice messages.

Conclusions: Health education using Raspberry Pi based automatic voice messages improved both knowledge and preventive behavior regarding COVID 19 in high risk population.
The effectiveness of self-care management in treating heart failure: A scoping review
Authors: Hany Alfrina , Vatmasari Ratih Arum
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Heart failure is a common chronic disease associated with increased mortality and rehospitalization rates. Self-care management provided in various ways is one approach to avoiding the need for rehospitalization by lowering recurrence rates. Therefore, this study aims to determine the most effective self-care management interventions for heart failure patients.

Design and Methods: The databases Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PubMed were used to conduct literature reviews over ten years. In September 2021, a full-text article search was conducted using the keywords "Self-Care," "Self-Management," "Intervention," "Heart Failure Patients," and "Randomized Control Trial" in PubMed ScienceDirect and Google Scholar databases. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were determined using the PICOS technique. After the screening, 39 articles met the criteria.

Results: Self-care management is provided through education programs, training programs, and the utilization of apps and websites to improve its self-care abilities.

Conclusions: Therefore, one way to provide self-care management during the COVID-19 pandemic was through the program's website, which is viewed "remotely" and used to track patient progress.
Delayed diagnosis of plasma cell disorder-related Fanconi syndrome in young adults presenting as osteomalacia: report of two cases with normokalemia and normal haematological parameters at the time of presentation
Authors: Franklin Joel , Pavithran Praveen V. , Sidharthan Neeraj , NV Seethalkshmy , Abraham Nithya , Menon V. Usha , Nair Vasantha , Kumar Harish
Published: February 2023

Adult-onset hypophosphatemic osteomalacia is rare and diagnosis is frequently delayed. Fanconi syndrome (FS) due to monoclonal gammopathy is a well-recognized, but rare cause of hypophosphatemia. The relatively young age of patients and normal routine hematological parameters often results in late recognition of this treatable disease entity. Low phosphorus, elevated alkaline phosphatase, mildly impaired renal function and hypokalemia are often the only abnormalities on routine evaluation. We summarize the clinico-pathological features of two cases who initially presented with fractures and proximal myopathy and were subsequently found to have FS secondary to light chain proximal tubulopathy. Atypical features like absence of hypokalemia at presentation  and elevated Fibroblast Growth Factor 23(FGF 23), a marker of oncogenic osteomalacia were noted. Marked clinical improvement and recovery of renal parameters were evident with phosphate supplements and  chemotherapy for the plasma cell disorder. FS due to monoclonal gammopathy  may present with atypical features  and diagnosis may be  challenging
Evaluation of Primary Stability of Cylindrical and Tapered Implants in Different Bone Types by Measuring Implant Displacement
Authors: Sugiura Tsutomu , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Horita Satoshi , Murakami Kazuhiro , Kirita Tadaaki
Published: February 2023

Aims:

The purposes of this study were to investigate the primary stability of cylindrical and tapered implants in different bone types by measuring implant displacement and to examine the relationship between insertion torque value (ITV) and implant displacement.

Materials and Methods:

Four different polyurethane bone models consisted of low-density or low-to-medium-density cancellous bone with or without a cortical bone layer. A total of 120 cylindrical and tapered implants were placed into bone blocks (n = 15 in each group), and the ITV was measured. A lateral load of 15 N was applied to the top of the abutment, and implant displacement was recorded.

Results:

Implant displacement was significantly affected by cancellous bone density and to a lesser degree by cortical bone thickness. The displacement of tapered implants was significantly smaller than that of cylindrical implants in the presence of cortical bone. However, both implant groups showed similar ITV in the low-density cancellous bone model with the cortical bone layer. There was a correlation between ITV and displacement in the cylindrical and tapered implants. However, no correlation was observed between ITV and displacement within each bone type.

Conclusions:

Implant stability depended mainly on the bone type, whereas implant design had a limited influence on primary stability. The use of tapered implants may be advantageous for improving primary stability in patients with low-density cancellous bone only when crestal cortical bone exists. The same ITV of cylindrical and tapered implants did not necessarily represent similar primary stability in the bone type.
High-intensity Focused Ultrasound for the Treatment of Fibroids
Authors: Jindal Smita , Jung Jacqueline , Lee KeenWhye , Chern Bernard
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Uterine fibroids and adenomyosis are common gynecological conditions that often require surgical treatment. Minimally invasive interventions such as ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (USgHIFU) are gaining popularity as they avoid surgical morbidity and conserve the uterus. We present a single-center experience on the use of USgHIFU for the treatment of fibroids and adenomyosis.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective study of 167 patients who underwent USgHIFU for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis between July 2018 and December 2020. Relevant demographic data and pre- and post-intervention fibroid volume, symptom severity scores (SSS), and health-related quality of life (QOL) scores were collected and compared. The paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the difference before and after treatment. P < 0.001 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

One hundred and sixty-seven patients with fibroids or adenomyosis were included in this study. The mean age of the cohort was 42-year-old. USgHIFU treatment led to a reduction in mean fibroid volume, improvement in SSS, and health-related QOL scores. The average reduction in mean fibroid volume was 68% and 75% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. There was a significant reduction in SSS (46.9 [pre] vs. 15.6 [post], P < 0.001) and improvement in health-related QOL scores at 6 months (58 [pre] vs. 86 [post], P < 0.001). The re-intervention rate following USgHIFU was 7.7% and successful pregnancy post USgHIFU was reported in 6 patients.

Conclusion:

USgHIFU is safe and effective. In women who desire fertility or are not suitable for surgery, it is a good alternative option. It should be included in the armamentarium for the treatment of uterine fibroids and adenomyosis.
Value-Based Care in Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Lean Six Sigma Approach for Optimizing the Surgical Recovery Period
Authors: Mastroianni Michael A. , Shi Jeffrey , Mendez Alegra , Sancillio Christopher , Armitage Marshal , McCormick Frank
Published: February 2023

Background

There is an overall need to optimize the surgical recovery period after rotator cuff repair, and there is no lean six sigma (LSS) protocol on how to effectively manage follow-up without increasing burden on patients or providers.

Materials and Methods

The Kanban board outcome assessment tool was managed by athletic trainers and was used to organize the recovery period. Using ICD-10 codes, we benchmarked our outcomes from May 2017 to February 2019-4633 rotator cuff repairs recorded in a global registry (Surgical Outcomes System). Statistical analysis was done by two-tailed, two-sample t-test, and multiple linear regression.

Results

Fifty-seven patients with a survey compliance rate of 82.4% and a minimum follow-up of 2 years were compared to 4633 patients in a global registry with 58% compliance at 2 years. Pretreatment baseline scores were also significantly worse in our LSS cohort. Despite this, our analysis identified a statistically significant improvement in Visual Analog scales, American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, and Veterans-Rand 12 physical and mental scores in our LSS cohort compared to the global registry (P < 0.01). Subgroup analysis of partial, complete, and massive rotator cuff tears in our cohort also compared favorably to the global registry. Our LSS protocol resulted in 12 scheduled patient-provider interactions with two physician follow-up appointments postoperatively.

Conclusions

Our LSS approach yielded clinically significant 38% less pain and 20% improved shoulder function at 2 years postoperation compared to a global registry. Quality of life measures also improved by nearly 20% for both physical and mental health. Our LSS model improved patient outcomes following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.
Quality Assurance Practices in the Time of COVID 19: What Works in Tertiary Institutions in Tanzania
Authors: Sospeter Mwita , Amuli Alphonce J. , Hassanal Issaya B.
Published: February 2023

Despite natural disasters like COVID-19, tertiary institutions around the world should be more responsive and use a proactive approach to quality  assurance. The COVID-19 eruption halted the operation of normal classrooms. Teaching was done from home, although many teachers were not aware  of online facilitation. The current study examined the practice of quality assurance in Tanzanian tertiary institutions following COVID-19 eruption from  2020 to 2021. To achieve this, the study adopted a mixed-methods approach with the help of a sequential explanatory research design. The study  involved 113 respondents, obtained randomly from four tertiary institutions. The study adopted an automated questionnaire and semistructured  interviews for collecting data from the respondents. The two methods of data collection enabled the gathering of voluminous information with little bias.  The data were analysed descriptively and by using content analysis for qualitative data. Results from this study revealed that both external and internal  mechanisms were adapted to varying degrees in the practice of quality assurance amid COVID19. They also reveal that some tertiary institutions have  adopted a blended online mode of teaching and learning. However, it was not successfully implemented because most tertiary institutions lacked the  necessary resources and personnel to use digitalisation in teaching and learning. According to the study, digitalisation quality assurance systems should  be improved further to overcome the current situation and the future effects of unpredictable disasters. Furthermore, higher education institutions must  improve open and remote e-communication between tutors and students.
Use of Social Media to Improve Marketing Performance of Selected Manufacturing Firms in Tanzania: Evidence from Coastal Region
Authors: Augustine Justine , Rushaka Avitus
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of social media marketing on marketing performance of the  manufacturing companies in Tanzania. Specifically, the study aimed to examine the effect of social media strategy,  active presence and customer engagement initiatives on the marketing performance of selected  manufacturing companies in Coastal Region. The study used social penetration theory. Quantitative research  approach and cross sectional research design was used. A sample of 138 respondents was selected from 29  manufacturing companies in Coastal Region using simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire  was used for collecting primary data. Data were analysed by using the Statistical Package for Social  Science (SPSS) to compute descriptive statistics and undertake multiple linear regression. The results show that  social media strategy had positive and significant relationship with marketing performance (B = 0.539, p = 0.000).  Moreover, the results show that there was positive and significant relationship between active presence in social  media and the marketing performance of the manufacturing companies (B = 0.620, p=0.001). Furthermore, the  findings show that there was positive and significant relationship between customer engagement initiatives in  social media and marketing performance of the manufacturing companies (B = 0.919, p = 0.000). The study  concludes that social media strategy, active presence and customer engagement initiatives in social media have  positive effect on the marketing performance of the manufacturing companies. The study recommends that  manufacturing companies should make sure social media strategy, active presence and customer engagement  initiatives become part of the marketing strategies in order to increase marketing performance.
Quantitative Analysis of Factors Influencing Financial Management among Village Community Banks’ Beneficiaries in Mbeya City, Tanzania
Authors: Mwidege Asheri Mandesu
Published: February 2023

The present study investigated factors that influence participants’ financial administration in Village Community Banks (VICOBA) in Mbeya City. The study  employed an experimental research design in which a cross-sectional sample of 100 respondents was collected using both closed and open-ended  interview schedules. The study employed STATA in data analysis where descriptive and quantitative outputs were obtained. Findings showed that age,  marital status, and personal decisions of VICOBA beneficiaries were positively correlated and significant with financial management at p<0.05 and p<0.01  levels, respectively. Furthermore, it was found that household size, experience, and financial literacy were inversely correlated and statistically  significant with financial management at p<0.01 level. It was therefore concluded that age, marital status, and personal decisions of beneficiaries have a  positive influence on financial management contrary to household size, experience, and financial literacy. It is therefore recommended that beneficiaries  should optimize personal decisions for sustainable financial management contrary to household size and experience.
Annualized Stock Market Returns Volatility: An Evidence of Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange
Authors: Mwidege Asheri Mandesu
Published: February 2023

inancial market players raise a concern about returns volatility anomalies. Yet, the day effects of stock market return instability in the Dar es Salaam  financial market are not known. The present study, investigated the day effects on returns using time series data for the years 1998 through 2020. The  return of market stocks was analysed using Win Rat and E-views. The results showed that the day of and the month of the year outcome existed in the  return equation only with a constant decay rate (α + β= 0.75) meaning that the unpredictability forecast reverts to its unrestricted mean at the  proportion of 0.75 per transaction period. Moreover, it was found that the lowest monthly returns spread were observed for TCC and the highest for the  whole market while the maximum and nethermost daily returns occurred on Wednesdays and Tuesdays, respectively. Furthermore, it was found that the  positive January effect was observed in the market and monthly mean returns were positive with the lowest returns in December. The study concludes  that that day’s effects impacted the market stock return caused by the volatility effect on returns. It is therefore recommended that rational investors  should invest in the market for their future gains.
Strontium ranelate inhibits alveolar bone resorption in diabetic rats with periodontitis by regulating JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhao Wei , Luo Lan
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the inhibitory effect of strontium ranelate on alveolar bone resorption in diabetic rats with periodontitis, and the mechanism involved.Methods: Forty-five Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were allocated to 3 groups, viz, diabetic control, diabetic periodontitis, and diabetic periodontitis + strontium ranelate groups. Diabetes was induced via i.v. administration of streptozotocin (STZ) (45 mg/kg). Then, a rat model of periodontitis was established by ligating the neck of the upper left first molar of each rat with a 0.4-mm orthodontic ligation wire. Strontium ranelate or normal saline was administered by gavage. Four weeks later, various indicators were assessed.Results: There was a significantly higher expression level of Mir-21 in the periodontal tissue of diabetic periodontitis rats than in diabetic control rats. In contrast, this parameter was significantly lower in diabetic periodontitis rats than in periodontal tissues of rats in the diabetic periodontitis + strontium ranelate group, while the translations of JAK2 and STAT3 genes were significantly higher in periodontal tissues of diabetic periodontitis rats (p < 0.05). In contrast, there were lower expression levels of JAK2 and STAT3 in diabetic periodontitis group than in diabetic periodontitis + strontium ranelate group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Strontium ranelate increases the expression level of miR-21 and activates JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting the resorption of alveolus bone in rats with diabetes/periodontitis.
Effect of sevoflurane delayed-postconditioning on ischemia-reperfusion injury in isolated rat hearts
Authors: Cheng Gang , Li Li-huan
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To evaluate the protective effect, effective time window, and mechanism of protection of sevoflurane post-conditioning and late sevoflurane post-conditioning on heart muscle ischemiareperfusion (I/R) lesion in isolated rat heart.Methods: Langendorff isolated perfusion model was established in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. After 15 min of stabilization, the rats were assigned to 10 groups, based on the treatments given: control group (TTC), I/R group, sevoflurane post-processing group (SpostC), 0.5 min-, 1 min-, 5 min-, 10 min-, 20 min-, 30 min- delayed sevoflurane post-processing group (S0.5, S1, S3, S5, S10, and S20). The levels of mitochondrial membrane permeability, area of myocardial infarction, myocardial apoptosis, and p-GSK3 beta level were determined.Results: Myocardial infarction areas in Spost, S0.5, S1, S3, S5, S10 and S20 groups were significantly than in I/R group (p < 0.05), while expression levels of myocardial p-Akt were significantly higher in Spost, S0.5, S1, S3, S5, S10, S20, and S30 groups than in I/R group (p < 0.05). GSK-3 phosphorylation level was significantly higher in Spost, S1, S10, S20, and S30 groups than in I/R group (p < 0.05). Expression of p-GSK-3β in S30 group decreased, relative to that in Spost group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Sevoflurane post-conditioning and delayed sevoflurane post-conditioning mitigates I/R lesions in isolated rat hearts. The protective effect against ischemia-reperfusion injury is related to the levels of phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. Thus, this treatment approach may be useful in the management of cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Genetic changes in fetal cerebral cortex after maternal exposure to sevoflurane
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Mao , Shi Cuicui , Qi Can , Ding Song , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the acute changes in transcriptome of radial glial progenitor cells after maternal exposure to sevoflurane.Methods: Two groups of sample data were collected from the data set in the GEO database. Pregnant mice in sevoflurane group were exposed to 2.5 % sevoflurane for 6 h on day 14.5 of the pregnancy, while the mice in control group were exposed to 100 % oxygen for 6 h. At the end of the exposure period, the cerebral cortex of the two groups of fetuses was isolated and analyzed by RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEG) were analyzed using limma package of R language. The Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway enrichment were based on DEG through a cluster profile package of R. Moreover, protein-protein interactions (PPI) network construction and central gene prediction were carried out using a string database and R package.Results: Bioinformatics analysis revealed 289 up-regulated genes and 311 down-regulated DEGs, respectively. Gene Ontology and KEGG enrichment analysis revealed terms related to neural development and transcriptional function. Based on the central genes of the PPI network, it was found that certain genes may play significant roles in the regulation of neural development. These genes are hnRNPM, AURKA, NCBP, SRSF6, ASF1B, HNRNPA2B1, DDX21, H3F3B, KPNA2 and ABCE1 (p < 0.05).Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that hub genes and a variety of signal pathways may play key roles in the development of radial glial progenitor cells.
Effect of salidroside on ventricular remodeling after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhou Chun , Jiao Lu , Teng Lin , Ding Jiawang
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the remodeling influence of salidroside (SAL) on the ventricles following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in rats, and the processes involved.Methods: A total of 65 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were assigned to 5 groups: sham (n = 13), model, and low-, medium- and high-dose SAL groups given SAL at doses of 12, 34, and 36 mg/day, respectively, with 13 rats in each group. Changes in pathological structure, collagen area, ratio of collagen I/collagen III, left ventricular mass index (LVW/BW), ratio of cardiac weight to body weight (HW/BW), creatine kinase MB isoenzyme (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase-1 (LDH-1), endothelin (ET), laminin (LN), and hyaluronic acid (HA) were evaluated. Expression levels of dishevelled-1 (DVL-1) and β-catenin in myocardial tissues of the rats were also determined.Results: The LVW/BW values were significantly higher in the low SAL and medium SAL groups than those in AMI rats, while the ratio of collagen I/III and expression levels of DVL-1 and β-catenin proteins were significantly lower than those in the model group (p < 0.05). The myocardial structure of rats in the sham group was normal, with no obvious lesions. The levels of CK-MB, LDH-1, ET, LN, and HA in medium and high-dose SAL groups were significantly lower than those in the model group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Salidroside mitigates remodeling of ventricles following AMI in rats by modulating the Wnt/β-catenin signal route.
Development of a novel detection technology for drug resistance mutation sites of Mycobacterium tuberculosis using Luminex liquid chip technology
Authors: Liu Changjiang , Tang Mingliang , Zhang Liyuan , Huang Yi , Chu Naihui
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To develop a novel detection technology for drug-resistance mutation sites of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) using a Luminex liquid chip.Methods: Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and hybridization analysis, MTB infection and drug-resistant mutation sites of the first-line and second-line anti-MTB drugs were simultaneously identified. A novel detection method was applied to analyze the wild-type standard strains of MTB and 33 clinical samples, and the results were compared with Sanger sequencing results for PCR products.Results: It was revealed that the sensitivity (100 %) and specificity (100 %) of the novel detection method for 31 samples were satisfactory, and all mutation sites were correctly detected. Compared with traditional PCR and culture-based drug sensitivity test, the novel detection method increased the speed of identification of drug-resistant TB, reduced clinicians' workload, and decreased treatment cost. Among 31 samples, 12.90 % were resistant to isoniazid (4/31), 35.48 % to rifampicin (11/31), and 12.90 % to ofloxacin (p < 0.05). Furthermore, 2 (6.45 %) samples were resistant to both isoniazid and rifampicin, 2 (6.45 %) samples to both rifampicin and ofloxacin, and 1 (3.22 %) sample to both isoniazid and ofloxacin, and 1 (3.22%) sample to all the three drugs (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Development and wide application of this novel detection method will facilitate the treatment of MTB, thus reducing the spread of drug-resistant MTB, and improving the prevention and treatment of MTB.
Dual and triple antithrombotic pharmacotherapy i n patients with coronary heart disease complicated with atrial fibrillation after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Tan Jiaoyan , Si Liangyi , Yang Xiaorong , Yue Jia
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To compare the influence of triple antithrombotic therapy (warfarin + aspirin + clopidogrel) and dual antithrombotic therapy (aspirin + clopidogrel) on the risk of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) after coronary stent implantation.Methods: A total of 210 patients with coronary heart disease and complicated with AF, who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, were enrolled. They were divided into a triple antithrombotic therapy group (TT group) and a dual antithrombotic therapy group (DT group). The risks of hemorrhage and MACCEs were evaluated via follow-up and multivariate regression analysis.Results: Based on the classification criteria for bleeding in Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) and Global Use of Strategies to Open Occluded Coronary Arteries (GUSTO), there were 6 and 0 patients with significant hemorrhage in TT and DT groups, respectively, during the one year of follow-up (p = 0.013). The total number of MACCEs of 52 and 61 for both groups was not significantly different (p = 0.213). Moreover, the results of multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the histories of ischemia and stroke (p = 0.023), heart failure (p = 0.007), and high CHA2DS2-VASc score (p = 0.004) were the risk factors for MACCEs.Conclusion: Compared with dual antithrombotic therapy, triple antithrombotic therapy increases the risk of major hemorrhage in AF patients after PCI, but does not noticeably reduce the incidence of MACCEs during one year of follow-up.
Perception of community pharmacists on abuse of psychotropic medications among the consumers
Authors: Alabi Kolawole O , Joshua Falade , Akinwumi Akinsola I , Adje David U , Awodele Olufunsho
Published: February 2023

Purpose: Abuse of medications implies that the user is using them for reasons other than those indicated in the prescribing literature. Psychotropic medications are those capable of affecting the mind, motions, and behavior of humans. This study sought to determine the perception of community pharmacists about the pattern of psychotropic medication abuse among their customers.Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out among community pharmacists in Surulere axis of Lagos State, Nigeria, by census sampling method using a structured questionnaire.Results: Majority of the respondents (74.7%) were male and within ten years of practice experience (85.1%). About four-fifth (84.4%) of the respondents perceived that psychotropic medications were being abused by customers purchasing such medications from them. Caffeine-based analgesics ranked highest (85.1%) among the drugs perceived to be abused while dextromethorphan-containing cough syrup, sedative antihistamine, codeine-based analgesics, tramadol, oral decongestant, and benzodiazepines were perceived to be equally abused (84.4%). Male customers were perceived to abuse psychotropic medications more than their female counterparts and abuse of tramadol and codeine-based analgesics were specifically noted to be higher in customers younger than 26 years of age.Conclusion: Consumer psychotropic medication abuse at community pharmacies was perceived to be ignificant in Lagos community pharmacies.
Upregulation of AKAP12 by demethylation inhibits proliferation and increases chem osensitivity to adriamycin in leukemic cells
Authors: Liu Senjun , Liu Shuping , Zhong Yebo , You Qi
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To elucidate the role of AKAP12 in leukemia cells.Methods: Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting (WB) were employed to determine the expression of AKAP12 in leukocyte cell lines, while 5-azacytidine was used to treat the cells, followed by assessment of the expression of AKAP12. After constructing the overexpressing vector pc-AKAP12 and transfecting it into cells or treating the cells with 5-azacytidine, cell counting kit-8 assay (CCK-8) was used to determine cell proliferation. Cloning ability of the cells was evaluated by colony formation assay.  Furthermore, flow cytometry was employed to measure the degrees of cell cycle and cell apoptosis. The effect of AKAP12 on PI3K/AKT were determined by western blot.Results: The results showed that AKAP12 was lowly expressed in lymphocytic leukemia cell lines (p < 0.001), but was reversed by 5-azacytidine. Transfection of AKAP12 or 5-azacytidine treatment increased the expression of AKAP12 in the cells (p > 0.001), inhibited leukemia cell proliferation and clonality, and arrested cell cycle in G1 phase as well as induced apoptosis. In addition, PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was inhibited by AKAP12.Conclusion: AKAP12 is lowly expressed in leukemia cells, and may also play a role in inhibiting leukemia progression by suppressing the activity of PI3K/AKT pathway.Thus, targeting AKAP12 mght be a potential strategy in the management of lukemia.
Polysulfonic acid mucopolysaccharide exerts anti scarring effect in rats through modulation of TGF β 1/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: Sha Xiaowei , Liu Gang , Wang Siyu , Mao Yujie , Xie Jun
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To determine the anti-scarring effect of polysulfonic acid mucopolysaccharide (MSP), and the implication of TGF-β1/Smad signal transduction route.Methods: Sixty (60) male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were assigned to control, model and polysulfonic mucopolysaccharide groups, respectively, each with 20 rats. Serum inflammatory factors, scar area and scar thickness, histopathological changes and relative concentrations of TGF-β1 Smad4, collagen types I and III, and α-SMA were determined.Results: In the control group, collagen cells were closely distributed and the skin structure was intact without inflammatory infiltration. In contrast, there were numerous necrotic dermal cells on rat skin surface in model group, with obvious inflammatory infiltration and severely damaged hair follicles. In contrast, in polysulfonic mucopolysaccharide group, the thickness of skin tissue and dermis was significantly improved, with a clear layer and reduced degree of inflammatory infiltration. Types I and III collagen and α-SMA were significantly down-regulated in polysulfonic mucopolysaccharide-fed rats, relative to model rats.Conclusion: Polysulfonic acid mucopolysaccharide exerts anti-scarring effect by regulating TGFβ1/Smad signal pathway, thus has the potential for use in minimizing scarring of the skin in clinical practice.
Aspirin protects against preeclampsia via p38MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Su Min , Zhou Binying , Zhen Manhua , Liu Jiasi
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To investigate the protective effect of aspirin against preeclampsia and the involvement of p38MAPK signaling pathway in the process.Methods: Sixty pregnant women who underwent antenatal care and delivery at Chancheng Central Hospital from September 2020 to September 2022 were selected and equally assigned to control group (CG) and experimental group (EG). From the 12th week of gestation, EG was administered 100 mg of aspirin and 1000 mg of calcium carbonate daily, while CG was given only 1000 mg of calcium carbonate daily. Both groups were treated up to the 35th week of gestation. Thereafter, blood samples were taken for measurement of serum levels of p38MAPK. In addition, the blood pressure of the women was measured. The incidence of preeclampsia and maternal-infant outcomes were assessed.Results: EG had a lower p38MAPK level at week 35 of pregnancy, and lower blood pressure levels at the 27th and 35th weeks of gestation, than CG (p < 0.05). There were 5 cases of preeclampsia (16.7 %) in EG, and 13 cases (43.3 %) of preeclampsia in CG, with a lower incidence of preeclampsia in EG than in CG (ꭓ2 = 5.079, p < 0.05). The numbers of newborns through premature delivery and cesarean section, as well as Apgar score ≤ 7 were lower in EG than in CG (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Aspirin exerts a protective effect against preeclampsia through via p38MAPK signaling pathway. Therefore, aspirin treatment may be useful in reducing the incidence of preeclampsia and improving maternal-infant outcomes. However, further clinical trials are recommended prior to application in clinical practice.
Anisodamine combined with lidocaine improves healing of myocardial ischemia reperfusion injury in rats via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway
Authors: Wang Shouyi , Chen Jiahao , Wang Jie , Que Hongbo , Wei Daming , Zhu Yanhao , Liu Qin , Liu Yu , Zhu Chunyan
Published: February 2023

Purpose: To study the effects of anisodamine (Ad) combined with lidocaine (Ldc) on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) in rats, and its correlation with PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.Methods: A total of 70 healthy rats were randomly divided into S group, M group, Ad group, Ldc group, Ad + Ldc group, Ad + Ldc + LY group, and LY group. The cardiac hemodynamic indices in each group were determined, and the area of myocardial infarction measured. Serum biochemical indices were also determined. Furthermore, the protein expressions of p-Akt, T-Akt, Bcl-2, and Bax in myocardial cells were determined by Western blotting.Results: Compared with those in M group, Ad group, Ldc group, Ad + Ldc + LY group, and LY group, cardiac hemodynamic indices significantly improved, while the area of myocardial infarction was significantly reduced (p < 0.01). Furthermore, serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration but the activities of CK, CK-MB, TNF-α, and IL-6 declined, while the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), CAT and GSH-Px rose in Ad + Ldc group (p < 0.01). In Ad + Ldc group, p-Akt, T-Akt, and Bcl-2 increased, while Bax significantly decreased. Through comparison LY294002 significantly inhibited the protective effect of Ad combined with Ldc against MIRI in rats (p < 0.01).Conclusion: Anisodamine combination with lidocaine has a protective effect against MIRI in rats via PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thus indicating that it is a potential therapeutic strategy for the management of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion.
Financial Autonomy of the Local Self-governments in the Countries of the Visegrad Group in the Context of the European Charter of Local Self-government
Authors: Pál Ádám , Radvan Michal
Published: February 2023

The authors of the paper aim to provide a comparative insight into the financial autonomy of local self-governments in four Central European countries: Hungary, Slovakia, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The topic is presented through the relevant provisions of the European Charter of Local Self-Government, the only legally binding multilateral treaty in Europe addressing local self-governance. As all the four examined states are parties to the document, the authors used the outputs of its monitoring process to analyze the situation under all the relevant provisions of the Charter, paragraph by paragraph. Considering that certain provisions of the Charter enjoy a superior position compared to the others (core provisions), the authors formulated a hypothesis according to which, in the area of financial autonomy, these core provisions are the most problematic ones in terms of their successful implementation. Using analytical, statistical, and comparative methods, the authors concluded that the hypothesis was confirmed, as most shortcomings were identified in the fields covered by these provisions, meaning that besides the lack of sufficient resources, the lack of ability to influence the amount of these resources is also often present in the studied countries.
Legal and Political Methods of Weakening the Local Government in the Second Polish Republic After 1926
Authors: Wałdoch Jacek
Published: February 2023

The subject of the article is the issue of strengthening the position of the government administration in relation to local government in the Second Polish Republic. The author presented the evolution of the legal basis for the local self-government system, starting with the constitution of 1921, in which there was a mention of "extensive local self-government". Subsequent acts on this subject come from the period after 1926, when a party supporting Józef Piłsudski came to power as a result of a coup d'état. The crowning moment of the systemic changes was the constitution of 1935, in which the issue of local self-government was almost omitted. The article is enriched with opinions of representatives of the legal doctrine.
“Que o destino dos índios seja entregue a eles mesmos”: Darcy Ribeiro e o surgimento de um movimento indígena nacional durante a redemocratização do país
Authors: K. Pimentel Spensy , A. Brighenti Clóvis
Published: February 2023

Darcy Ribeiro esteve presente em um momento crucial para a criação de um movimento indígena de caráter inter-regional no país, em seminário que resultou na criação da União das Nações Indígenas, em Campo Grande, em abril de 1980. Em diálogo com as falas do antropólogo nesse evento e na conhecida polêmica de 1979 com Roberto Da Matta, os dois autores, a partir de suas pesquisas sobre a história do movimento indígena no Brasil, discutem o sentido das ações e pronunciamentos públicos de Darcy no período da redemocratização do país.
DO QUE FALAMOS QUANDO FALAMOS DE ESCRITA DE SI
Authors: Chamarelli Gutierrez Mauricio
Published: February 2023

Este artigo analisa o conceito de escrita de si, empregado por Diana Klinger no contexto de narrativas latino-americanas contemporâneas à luz da teorização daquele que lhe fornece o sintagma – mas, a meu ver, não o paradigma teórico – em que se baseia: isto é, Michel Foucault. Minha hipótese é que, sob a égide do título foucaultiano (“A escrita de si”), Klinger propõe, na verdade, seu próprio conceito de escrita de si, pautado sobretudo na leitura que Judith Butler faz da teoria do pastiche presente em um curto texto de Frederic Jameson. Meu intuito não é proteger a obra foucaultiana de uma suposta apropriação indevida, mas observar uma homonímia teórica corrente no Brasil e, com isso, apontar para possíveis releituras das relações entre eu e escrita.
O TEOR TESTEMUNHAL DA POESIA DE PRIMO LEVI
Authors: Viana do Nascimento Neto Artur , Suely Muller Fernanda
Published: February 2023

Neste nosso artigo, pretendemos abordar o viés testemunhal da produção poética de Primo Levi. Para isso, trazemos à discussão, inicialmente, toda a problemática que envolve a relação entre poesia e barbárie, a partir das reflexões de Adorno (2009), a quem se contrapõem Celan (1996) e o próprio Levi (1988). Em seguida, trabalhamos o tema desta pesquisa especificamente na biografia e na bibliografia do autor italiano em estudo, analisando dois de seus poemas: “Levantar” e “Shemá” (LEVI, 2019). No final deste itinerário, apontamos, como eixos centrais da poética de Primo Levi, o valor catártico e denunciatório da poesia como meio de suscitar uma postura ética de seus leitores frente à Shoah.
Qualidade de vida no trabalho: a pessoa idosa no setor público do estado do Amazonas
Authors:   , Vargas Juliana Maria Melazi Girardi
Published: February 2023

Esta dissertação teve como objetivo analisar se as expectativas dos servidores públicos ativos e idosos do estado do Amazonas são contempladas pelas políticas de qualidade de vida no trabalho. Com o reconhecimento da relevância dessas políticas e suas ações nas instituições públicas, este estudo analisou a existência de Programas de Qualidade de Vida no Trabalho que contemplem os idosos em atividade nos órgãos públicos. Para isso, foi realizado um estudo de caso. A metodologia utilizada foi a teórico-empírica, caracterizada de forma descritiva e exploratória, com análise documental e pesquisa de campo. O questionário utilizado foi elaborado com a adaptação dos oito fatores de QVT, de acordo com o modelo de Walton (1973). Adotaram-se procedimentos quali-quantitativos para análise de dados. Os resultados e as discussões aqui sistematizados indicam pontos relevantes para a melhoria das dimensões que abrangem “Oportunidades”, “Condições de trabalho” e “Compensação justa e adequada”. Apresentam-se, ainda, sugestões de aprimoramento da QVT, por meio de mecanismos de incentivo pela comunicação mais assertiva dos gestores e ampliação de programas com convênios em diferentes esferas que atendam às necessidades institucionais e às expectativas dos servidores idosos. De forma inédita, o estudo testou as escalas utilizadas para representarem as oito dimensões do modelo de Walton. Palavras-chave: Qualidade de vida no trabalho. Trabalhadores idosos. Setor público.
Superficies Minimas em M²(k) xf ℝ
Authors:   , Teixeira Jhenipher Cleyton Fagner
Published: February 2023

Neste trabalho estudamos a existência e unicidade de uma família de superfícies rotacionais mínimas imersas no produto distorcido (warped product) M²(k) xf ℝ, onde M²(k) é uma forma espacial de curvatura não positiva, ℝ é o conjunto dos números reais e f a função de deformação conhecida como warping function. Mais precisamente, apresentamos uma descrição completa da curva geradora de cada superfície rotacional mínima quando a warping function satisfaz alguns dados admissíveis. Palavras-chave: Warped products. Superfícies rotacionais. Superfícies invariantes. Superfícies de Weingarten.
Deficiencies in the tests for distinctiveness and reputation: A discussion of passing off in light of Koni Multinational Brands (Pty) Ltd v Beiersdorf AG
Authors: Karim Safura Abdool
Published: February 2023

The delict of passing off has evolved and expanded incrementally over time and remains a powerful means of protecting unique aspects of one’s products. While passing off seeks to prevent unlawful competition, courts are tasked with balancing which interests ought to be protected by passing off claims against the need to allow market forces and not to unduly constrain competition. The test for passing off has consisted of proof of reputation, misrepresentation and damage. A fundamental component of establishing reputation has been the need to demonstrate its distinctiveness. Notwithstanding this, the law on passing off has also developed to exclude ‘legitimate copying’ – especially where a particularly successful get-up transforms into a market standard. The Supreme Court of Appeal’s decision in Koni Multinational Brands (Pty) Ltd v Beiersdorf AG is an opportunity to consider how these concepts operate in a market where many products share similar features, and where the claimant controls a significant proportion of the market share. While Koni offers much food for thought, this article seeks to explore its treatment of distinctiveness in the context of proving reputation and to offer a pathway to develop this test in a manner that better promotes consumer interests and preserves fair competition.
The quest to use CRISPR technology in tackling the South African tuberculosis epidemic: Examining how the crispr patent and licensing regime may impact access to CRISPR-related tuberculosis therapies
Authors: Kamwendo Tamanda
Published: February 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be the top killer disease in South Africa; there is little hope of a very efficient treatment in the near future. It is therefore becoming increasingly clear that the long-term solution to TB requires more than simply adding to the current arsenal of TB drugs. A treatment that provides quicker and long-lasting results is needed. Public health innovations such as genome editing present a promising therapeutic paradigm shift in terms of TB immunisation or treatment. The diversity of the Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 genome-editing technology holds promise in its ability to alter the genome and to control gene expression. While the promotion of CRISPR research is a crucial public health intervention, the realm of patent laws clashes with promoting public health needs, which may delay the speedy use of this technology for disease treatment. For that reason, in this article, I discuss the South African CRISPR patent landscape and its impact on the proposed applications of genome editing technology in public health. I explore the complexities raised by the CRISPR patent landscape and how that may lead to high prices for these CRISPR therapies – thereby limiting patients’ access. I conclude by proposing recommendations on how we can efficiently bridge the disconnect between the existing CRISPR patents and access to CRISPR therapeutics as a public health benefit.