bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entomotoxic potential of hydroalcoholic extract of Eragrostis plana Nees in experimental model of Nauphoeta cinerea Olivier
Authors: Aguiar Angélica Vieira , Pedroso Lana Dorneles , Borges Bruna Trindade , Vestena Silvane
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the entomotoxic activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of Eragrostis plana Nees in an experimental model of cockroaches (Nauphoeta cinerea Olivier), for a possible bioinsecticide. For this purpose, aerial parts of E. plana were grounded to obtain the hydroalcoholic extract (EACA), after preparing the concentrations of (0.5; 2.5; 5.0; 12.5; 25.0; 50.0 100.0 μg g-1 per animal) a saline solution was used to control the treatment. To determine the receptors and pathways involved in responses to EACA doses of E. plana, a treatment with the drug octopamine and its inhibitor phentolamine were prepared. The effect of EACA on behavioral activities (grooming) and on cardiac activity were tested. All data were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, being analyzed by the two-way ANOVA test, followed by the Tukey test, considered significant when p<0.05. After carrying out the experiment, it was found that EACA induced a significant effect on leg grooming at all concentrations, except for the concentration of 100 μg g-1 per animal, but the same did not modulate antenna grooming. Regarding the receptors and pathways involved, it was observed that octopamine alone and together with the extract, had a significant effect on leg grooming, while phentolamine, together with the extract, influenced antennae grooming. Regarding the effect of the extract on the semi-isolated heart, it was noticed that the same doses that affected grooming, affected heart rate by decreasing it. At no concentration, at the end of the treatment, there was no recovery of the heart rate. The results point to a direct modulation of octopaminergic and cholinergic pathways in the insect nervous system.
A teoria antropofágica da tradução no Brasil: o caso Haroldo de Campos
Authors: Ferreira Rony Márcio Cardoso , Dutra Luana Cavalieri de Alencar
Published: November 2023

O presente artigo tem como objetivo principal analisar em que medida alguns ensaios de Haroldo de Campos (1929-2003), mais especificamente aqueles escritos durante a década de 1960, foram seminais para a construção de uma teoria antropofágica da tradução no Brasil. Entre eles, este estudo elege como objetos de discussão os textos ‘Da tradução como criação e como crítica’ (1962), ‘Arno Holz: da revolução da lírica à elefantíase do projeto’ (1962) e ‘Texto literário e tradução’ (1967), no intuito de perscrutar o caminho de uma possível epistemologia sobre a tarefa tradutória pensada a partir dos trópicos. Para tanto, procuramos investigar por meio de tais ensaios a importância das noções de ‘antropofagia’ e ‘história constelar’ frente ao projeto teórico elaborado por Campos durante o século XX. A partir da perspectiva da crítica literária, da literatura comparada e dos estudos da tradução literária, valemo-nos, atrelados aos preceitos cunhados pelo poeta-tradutor brasileiro, dos postulados de Oswald de Andrade (2017), Walter Benjamin (1994), Jacques Derrida (2009) e Leda Tenório da Motta (2002). Portanto, veiculamos a importância desses postulados para o pensamento de Campos e, por fim, ratificamos a relevância de seus ensaios quando se pensa na desconstrução de um pensamento mais tradicional sobre a tradução literária em solo latino-americano.
Knowledge of pregnant women regarding tobacco and alcohol use in pregnancy at Mariental clinic, Hardap region: a quantitative study
Authors: Hamutenya Selma , Nghitanwa Emma M , Sankombo Marian
Published: November 2023

Globally, alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy is a challenge and linked to negative effects on health and wellbeing on both mother and the fetus. To investigate the knowledge of pregnant women attending antenatal care at Mariental clinic regarding the use of tobacco and alcohol in pregnancy. A quantitative approach with descriptive, cross-sectional, analytical design was used. The population were all pregnant women attending antenatal care at Mariental clinic. Systematic sampling method was used to select the sample of 224 pregnant women.Data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire that collected information on sociodemographic data and knowledge on tobacco and alcohol use. Data was analysed using Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Descriptive statistics was utilized to generatee frequencies and percentages.Fisher's Exact test at 0.05 alpha level was used to determine the association between variables. The mean age was 28.8 with a standard deviation of 6.9 years. Most participants, 43.6% were aged between 18 and 24 years. Majority, 88.15% were in third trimester of pregnancy, 73% were single, and unemployed. Most participants 78.7% have a high level of knowledge regarding the use of alcohol during pregnancy and 70.1% have higher level of knowledge regarding tobacco use during pregnancy. No association was found on the level of knowledge on alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy and socio demographic characteristics as all variables show a P-value of more than 0.05. Participants have higher knowledge on alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy.
Prediction of pulmonary tuberculosis treatment outcome in a sub‑Saharan African context
Authors: Mouafo Joseph M.F. , Yakam André N. , Simo Claude , Kamdem Jules S. , Bowong Samuel , Fono Louis A. , Noeske Jürgen
Published: November 2023

Failure to treat many pathogens is a concern. Identifying a priori, patients with potential failure treatment outcome of a disease could allow measures to reduce the failure rate. The objectives of this study were to use the Scoring method to identify factors associated with the tuberculosis unsuccessful treatment outcome and to predict the treatment outcome. A total of 1,529 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis were randomly selected in the city of Douala,Cameroon, this sample was randomly split into two parts: one subsample of 1,200 patients (78%) used as the Development sample, and the remaining of 329 patients (22%) used as the Validation sample. Baseline characteristics associated with unsuccessful treatment outcomes were investigated using logistic regression. The optimal score was based on the Youden's index. HIV positive status, active smoker and non‑belief in healing were the factors significantly associated with unsuccessful treatment outcomes (P0.05). A model used to estimate the risk of unsuccessful treatment outcome was derived. The threshold probability which maximize the area under the ROC curve was 18%. Patients for whom the risk was greater than this threshold were classified as unsuccessful treatment outcome and the others as successful.HIV positive and active smoking status were associated with death; the non-belief in healing, youth and male gender associated with lost-to-follow-up, TB antecedent and not having TB contact associated with therapeutic treatment failure. To increase the tuberculosis treatment success rate, targeted follow-up could be taken during the treatment for TB patients with previous characteristics.
Respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function impairment among textile industry workers in Alexandria, Egypt
Authors: Elshaer Noha , Foda Nermin , Shehata Sameh
Published: November 2023

Occupational exposure to cotton dust is still an important cause of respiratory problems in textile workers particularly in less developed countries like Egypt. Evaluate respiratory symptoms and diseases, and pulmonary function pattern among Egyptian textile workers. Cross sectional comparative study was conducted from December 2019 to September 2020 in a textile factory in Egypt; 364 male workers (184 cotton dust exposed workers, and 180 unexposed workers) were included. Participants were subjected to an interviewing questionnaire, British Medical Research Council questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, pulmonary function tests, and byssinosis grading format. Descriptive and analytic statistics were conducted. Chronic cough, phlegm production, and shortness of breath grade I, II and III were more reported in cotton dust exposed workers than unexposed workers (P0.01, P0.01, and P=0.02, respectively). Prevalence of chronic bronchitis was significantly higher among cotton dust exposed workers (12%) than unexposed workers (3.9%)(P0.01). The mean percent predicted values of lung function indices reflecting large-1irway function (VC, FVC, FEV1,FEV1%, PEFR, and FEF75) were significantly lower in cotton dust exposed workers (P0.01). Prevalence of byssinosis was 22.8%. Workers with byssinosis had significantly higher prevalence of respiratory symptoms, chronic bronchitis, cross-shift reduction in PEFR and significant decrease in mean percent predicted values of FVC, FEV1, PEFR, FEF75, and FEF50 than workers without byssinosis. This study revealed a substantial association between cotton dust exposure at work and respiratory symptoms and morbidity. Regular measurement of cross shift change in PEFR is recommended among exposed workers for early diagnosis of byssinosis.
Production, characterization and application of crude fungal lipase from Aspergillus rubber OP520917
Authors: Razik Rania Abdel , Shafei Mona S.
Published: November 2023

Background

The pancreatic and stomach juices both include the naturally occurring lipase enzyme. Its job is to digest lipids and fats, which helps to keep the gallbladder working properly. Long chain triglycerides are hydrolyzed by microbial lipases, E.C 3.1.1.3 because they are capable of producing changed molecules, the lipase enzymes that come from microorganisms are theoretically versatile and useful for a wide range of industrial applications.

Objective

This study sought to determine the amount of crude lipase produced by A.rubber OP520917 during submerged fermentation and its use in removing oil from fabrics and breaking down chicken fats.

Materials and methods

Aspergillus rubber OP520917 was tested for lipase production using submerged fermentation; lipase activity was estimated, characterized and tested for industrial applications. Influence of: the pH; incubation times; surfactants and organic solvents and their concentration on the production of lipase by the selected strain were evaluated.

Results and conclusion

Aspergillus rubber OP520917 was identified strain for lipase production. The biochemical characterizations of lipolytic activity of A.rubber were studied and documented that the best temperature was 37°Cat pH 4 after 4 days of incubation time. The medium used for enzyme production contains olive oil as a carbon source, Moreover, 30% of hexane was the best organic solvent for the strain. Where the relative activity increased to 200%. The lipase activities were maximal (210,145 U/ml) in the presence of surfactants tween80 and tween20 respectively at 1% concentration. Furthermore, Lipase activity was also tested for removal of oil stains from the fabrics and the degradation of natural chicken fats with crude enzyme as industrial applications. The results showed that more than 74% of fats degraded after 5 days of the incubation period.
Validation of RP-HPLC method for quantification of ketoconazole in two-stage model of biorelevant dissolution: application to supersaturation study
Authors: Annisa Viviane , Sulaiman Teuku N.S. , Nugroho Akhmad K. , Nugroho Agung E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Supersaturation may occur in weakly base drugs due to the physiological pH in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract cause their pH depends on solubility. The biorelevant medium used in this study were simulated gastric fluid (SGF) and Fasted State Simulated Intestinal Fluid (FaSSIF).

Aims

The in vitro evaluation of the supersaturation study measures the drug concentrations in solution as a function of time (concentration-time profiles). The method for analysis of concentration ketoconazole in supersaturation study has been validated.

Settings and design

A Two-Stage model of biorelevant dissolution is one of the methods to create the supersaturation condition. The method approach aims to simulate the condition of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract from gastric to intestine using a modification of the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) dissolution procedure and biorelevant medium.

Material and methods

The chromatographic system consisted of a reversed-phase C18 column (250×4.6 mm, 5 μm) at a flow rate of 1 ml/min, a detection wavelength of 232 nm, and a retention time of about 3 min for ketoconazole.

Results

The linearity of the calibration curves in the concentration range was good (R2 = 0.9995). The method was accurate with recoveries in the 100-103% range and precise (% relative standard deviation [RSD] of intraday variation was 0.85-1.57 and 0.3-1.61). The result of LOD was 0.230 μg/ml, and LoQ was 0.698 μg/ml.

Conclusion

The proposed method was selective, accurate, precise, and sensitive. So the method can be used to analyze the concentration of ketoconazole in supersaturation conditions induced by pH-shift in medium biorelevant.
Cloning and functional characterization of two abiotic stress tolerance genes, AtLTP1 and LeCBF1, in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Ibrahim Yomna H. , Basry Mahmoud A. , El-Maaty Shereen A. , Tawfik Mohamed S. , Basita Hussein A. , El-Assal Salah E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Salinity is one of the most damaging abiotic stress factors in agriculture, it has a negative impact on crop growth, production, and development. It is predicted that salinity will become much more severe due to global climate change. Moreover, soil salinization affects three hectares of agricultural land every minute, increasing the salinity-affected area by 10% annually. The improvement of abiotic stress tolerance in plants was made possible by recent developments involving transgenes and the isolation of some abiotic stress tolerance genes.

Objective

The current study aimed to synthesize, clone and characterize two abiotic stress tolerance genes Lipid transfer protein (AtLTP1) of Arabidopsis thaliana and Stress-inducible transcription factor C-repeating binding factor (LeCBF1) of Solanum lycopersicum in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

Materials and methods

The above-mentioned genes were synthesized, cloned into the pYES2 vector then transformed into Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model eukaryotic system. The yeast growth was measured at (OD600 nm) in a spectrophotometer, RT-PCR expression analysis and estimation of intracellular proline content after exposure to different salt concentration were performed to characterize and evaluate the physiological roles of the selected genes in the yeast.

Results and conclusion

The AtLTP1 and LeCBF1 genes were cloned into the pYES2 vector for Saccharomyces cerevisiae expression. After being exposed to increasing concentrations of sodium chloride (0, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2., 2.2, and 2.3 M) for 7 days, transgenic yeast cells were tested for their ability to survive under increasing salt-stress conditions and their growth response. A spectrophotometer was used to measure yeast growth at OD600nm. The growth of the control cells was dramatically hindered when the salt content was increased to 1.9 M NaCl. However, two transgenic yeast lines continued to grow well, at a slower rate, up to 2.3 M NaCl. The two genes’ expression in transgenic yeast in response to salt stress was verified by RT-PCR. In this transgenic yeast, the precise primers of LeCBF1 and AtLTP1 amplified the genes successfully at 633 base pairs and 368 base pairs, respectively. The findings showed that increasing salinization level considerably boosted the transgenic yeast’s intracellular proline accumulation. It was suggested that the possibility of utilizing these genes to produce salt tolerant transgenic plants, consequently, increase the amount of land that can be exploited for agriculture.
Enhanced gelatin based films integrated with xanthan and cellulose derivatives as potential packaging materials
Authors: Mohamed Salah A.A. , Ali Eman A. , Othman Abdelmageed M. , Elsayed Alaa E.
Published: November 2023

Background

Films based on gelatin can be useful for pharmaceutical and food packaging, but they have some drawbacks.

Objective

In this study, we aimed to evaluate three series of edible composite films based on gelatin for pharmaceutical and food packaging.

Materials and methods

Three series of composite films based on gelatin were prepared by blending with three different polysaccharides, xanthan, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Film composites were prepared by solution casting with glycerol (30% weight). Burst strength, mechanical, contact angel, water vapour permeability rate (WVPR), and air permeability test were tested for the three series of composite films. The antibacterial activity of the produced sheets against Gram-positive bacteria B. mycoides, a nonfilamentous fungus called C. albicans, and Gram-negative bacteria E. coli was examined.

Results

This work reports the successful preparation of stand-alone natural antimicrobial edible composite films with excellent mechanical properties. The addition of HPMC and HEMC had enhanced the thermal stability of gelatin-xanthan composite films. Mechanical properties; tensile strength and elongation percent were investigated. The results showed that the addition of 0.1% of HEMP and HPMC to gelatin–xanthan composite enhanced the elongation% to equal 59.33% and 25.33%, respectively, while the tensile values were 5.570 and 6.617 mPa, respectively. Xanthan addition had improved the antibacterial activity of gelatin films. The results showed that the different composite series have varying relative effects on microbial development effectiveness.

Conclusion

According to the results, these composite films can be considered as promising natural active edible packaging materials.
Anticataract effects of Pergularia daemia leaf on in-vitro glucose induced goat eye lens model
Authors: Vaghela Ujjval P. , Sheth Devang B. , Parekh Kushal , Jani Bhavik , Ajudia Ravi , Trivedi Rahul , Brahmbhatt Harshkumar , Gohil Dilsar
Published: November 2023

Background

The primary factors contributing to the development of cataracts in diabetes mellitus are the generation of free radicals and oxidative stress. It is widely recognized that the progression of cataracts can be attenuated by the presence of antioxidants. The prospect of utilizing natural plants as a source of antioxidants is highly promising.

Objectives

In order to determine the antioxidant activity of MDA level, Catalase activity, and Total protein level as well as to evaluate the morphological changes in goat eye lens, we investigated the anticataract effects of Pergularia daemia leaf on an in vitro glucose-induced goat eye lens model.

Material and methods

Six groups of 36 each were created out of lenses. ‘Normal Control’ (5.5 mM) constituted Group I. The remaining five groups used glucose (55 mM) to create an experimental diabetic cataract. Group II: ‘ Disease Control‘ (experimental, untreated diabetic cataract lenses). Enalpril 12 ng/ml and 55 mM glucose make up Group III. Lenses treated with a 250 μg/ml extract of Pergularia daemia leaves were placed in group IV. Lenses treated with a 500 μg/ml preparation of Pergularia daemia leaves, group V. Lenses treated with a 1000 μg/ml extract of Pergularia daemia leaves are in Group VI. Malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, and total proteins were among the biochemical factors found in lens homogenates that were examined. In each group, the morphology of the lenses was compared.

Results

The antioxidant enzyme activity, preservation of total proteins, catalase levels, and reduction of malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly increased in Pergularia daemia. Additionally, the methanolic extracts of Pergularia daemia leaves effectively delayed the development of opacity in the lenses while maintaining their shape.

Conclusion

The in-vitro glucose-induced goat eye lens model demonstrated anti-oxidant and anticataract capabilities as well as the preservation of lens shape in an anticataract study.
Auditing of outpatient prescriptions in selected primary healthcare centers in Tripoli, Libya
Authors: Atia Ahmed , Eldubiea Hajer , Belhag Haneen
Published: November 2023

Background

Irrational prescribing is a worldwide issue. Prescription auditing can assist in identifying medication errors caused by inappropriate prescribing. It is a systematic tool for analyzing the quality of medical care, including diagnostic and treatment procedures.

Objective

The present study aimed to assess the prescription quality and prescribing trends in selected primary healthcare centers in Tripoli.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in the outpatient department at selected primary healthcare centers for the period of 2 months from 1st Feb to 30th March 2023 and included a total of 214 prescriptions. All collected prescriptions were analyzed for the presence or absence of essential prescription components such as prescriber information, patient information, and drug details such as dosage form, strength, frequency, and dosage form. The observed data was presented in the form of a number and a percentage.

Results and conclusion

A total of 214 prescriptions were collected and analyzed, out of which 863 prescription writing errors were noted with an average of 4.03 errors per each prescription, among them 767 errors of prescriber omission and 96 of drug-related errors. Most of these omissions were due to failure in mentioning the patient’s address (n=211, 48.2%), followed by the prescriber’s specialization (n=143, 43.5%), and the prescriber’s name (n=112, 37.1%). Additionally, 96 omission errors related to drugs (0.44 errors per each prescription) were found being due to missing drug dosages (n=7, 7.3%) and strength of medication (n=10, 10.4%). The total number of drugs prescribed was 621, among them 129(20.8%) prescriptions were for analgesics, followed by 113(18.2%) were for antibiotics. There are some areas where the quality of prescription writing in the selected primary healthcare centers needs to be improved.
Understanding the Components of Theory of Mind in Depression: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Ghosh Debaleena , Halder Susmita
Published: November 2023

Background:

Theory of mind (ToM) is the capacity to infer the mental states of others to understand and predict their behavior. As depression is characterized by prominent social and interpersonal difficulties, exploration of ToM functioning is particularly relevant in depression. ToM is a fundamental ability that consists of two distinct but connected components: socioperceptual (decoding) and sociocognitive (reasoning). However, ToM is still an underexplored and controversial area of research in depression. In this light, the present study explores the different components of ToM in individuals with depression.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, participants of both genders (n = 60) were pooled as per the inclusion and exclusion criterion and screened for depression through Beck Depression Inventory. The socioperceptual component of ToM was assessed using the Reading the Mind in the Eyes test and the sociocognitive component of ToM was assessed using ToM Assessment Scale.

Results:

There were significant differences between individuals with depression and healthy controls in both the components of ToM. Healthy controls had higher means on both the measures with respect to the individuals with depression.

Conclusion:

The findings of the study clearly indicate that individuals with depression appear to be significantly impaired in their ability to “read” social interactions. To better understand depression and improve psychotherapeutic treatment, a more suitable method for evaluating fundamental mentalizing categories should be taken into consideration.
An Exploratory Study of Awareness about Five Concerned Mental Disorders among the Rural Population of Ahmedabad District
Authors: Patel Jigar G. , Ravtani Nikita P. , Bamania Prashant M. , Mehta Prakash I. , Marvania Nidhi P.
Published: November 2023

Background:

The National Mental Health Survey estimated that about 10.6% of the population currently suffered from a mental disorder. The treatment gap was found to be 76%–85% in developing countries. To get the large Indian population involved in their own mental health, the only way forward is through enhancing awareness on mental health.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to know about awareness of five concerned mental disorders, i.e., depression, anxiety, mania, schizophrenia, and substance use disorder among the rural population of India.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 1000 samples were collected randomly from seven villages of Ahmedabad district. Participants were aged 18 years or above. The questionnaire consisted of description and pictorial representation of five mental illnesses, namely, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, mania, and substance use disorder, in Gujarati language. The participants were asked if they could identify the characteristics as disorders and whether it was treatable by a doctor. The awareness of participants was determined based on that.

Results:

In our study, out of 1000 participants, we found that 577 (57.7%) participants could identify mental disorders and 518 (51.8%) acknowledged that the latter were medically treatable. Only 493 (49.3%) were aware of both. Out of 577 participants who could identify the disorders, 146 (14.6%) participants were not aware about the treatment availability by a doctor. There was no significant difference in awareness across different sociodemographic variables.

Conclusion:

There is poor awareness regarding mental health disorders and treatment availability for the same among the rural population of Ahmedabad.
Psychosocial Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Related State-imposed Lockdown on Patients Presenting with Respiratory Complaints: A Study from North India
Authors: Garg Ravi Kumar , Garg Kranti , Chopra Vishal
Published: November 2023

Background:

Clinical presentation of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mimics many respiratory ailments.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to explore the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 and subsequent state-imposed lockdown on patients presenting with respiratory complaints.

Methodology:

This was a prospective study on 82 outpatients at a tertiary care institute from North India during the period of strict lockdown. Baseline assessment was conducted using socioclinical pro forma, COVID-19-related questionnaire, lockdown-related questionnaire, and General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) Hindi version. Reassessment was done twice: immediately and 41–45 days after relaxation of strict lockdown. Quality of life (QOL) at first and second follow-up versus the prelockdown times (Score A and Score C) and first follow-up versus unlockdown (Score B) was noted.

Results:

Psychological distress was experienced in 45.1% and 17.1% of patients at baseline and first follow-up (P < 0.001). Clinical symptoms, worry for COVID-19, negative thoughts, and total score (lockdown) decreased significantly at first follow-up. The mean C score was significantly better than the mean A score (P < 0.001). Baseline and follow-up psychological distress was significantly more in those with poorer values of total score (lockdown) and its domains. On logistic regression, follow-up GHQ-12 correlated positively with Domain 2 (P = 0.027; odds ratio [OR] = 0.7) and “worry for COVID” (P = 0.017; OR = 10.136).

Conclusion:

Persons presenting with respiratory complaints and experiencing “worry for COVID-19” at the start of the lockdown were more likely to also experience psychological distress, which decreased significantly but persisted for prolonged periods even after relaxation in lockdown. Policymakers, while indulging in mental health planning in pandemics, should not ignore this issue of development and perpetuation of psychological distress in such otherwise “psychologically normal” individuals.
Correlation and Inter-rater Agreement between Patient, Caregiver and Clinician-administrated Versions of WHODAS 2.0 among the Persons with Bipolar Affective Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Paul Fayaz Ahmad , Tyagi Shikha , Das Subhash
Published: November 2023

Background:

Bipolar affective disorders are dimensional illnesses in which patients experience, during the long-term course of illness, fluctuating levels of severity of manic and depressive symptoms interspersed with symptom-free periods. It is a highly exhausting and relapsing psychiatric disorder associated with significant morbidity and comorbidity. The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) is an International Classification of Functioning-based multidimensional instrument that was developed for measuring disability.

Aim and Objective:

The present study aimed to check the correlation and inter-rater agreement amongst the patient, caregiver, and clinician-administered version of the WHODAS 2.0 among persons with bipolar affective disorder.

Materials and Methods:

The study was cross-sectional in nature. Thirty samples of patients with bipolar affective disorder as per ICD-10 criteria were selected using a consecutive sampling technique. Patients above 18 years of age with a total duration of illness of at least more than 2 years were included and used self, proxy, and interviewer-administered versions of WHODAS 2.0.

Results:

The total score of WHODAS 2.0 shows that the interclass correlation coefficient between the patient and caregiver, caregiver and clinician, and patient and clinician was 0.655 (0.469–0.802), 0.599 (0.395–0.767), and 0.722 (0.586–0.820), respectively, indicative of moderate reliability. Caregivers showed a higher mean in cognition, 3.73 (3.13); mobility, 2.63 (1.73); and self-care, 0.867 (1.25), than other raters. Clinicians showed a higher mean (standard deviation) in getting along with people, 4.13 (1.69); life activities of the household, 5.46 (2.67); and participation in society, 10.70 (2.56), than other raters.

Conclusion:

People suffering from bipolar affective disorder are prone to disability albeit in the mild-to-moderate variety. The findings show that there was moderate reliability between the patient and caregiver, caregiver and clinician, and patient and clinician among the patient rated, caregiver rated on the overscore of WHODAS 2.0.
Comparative evaluation of calcium ion release, pH change, and dentinal tubule penetration of four different formulations of calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medicaments – An in vitro study
Authors: Thonai Salouno , Kataki Rubi , Das Lima , Begum Firdushi , Deka Adrija , Borah Diganta Kumar
Published: November 2023

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the release of calcium ion, pH change, and dentinal penetration depth of four different formulations of calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medicaments.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty mandibular single-rooted premolar teeth were divided into four groups (n = 20): Group 1 – calcium hydroxide (CH) + distilled water (DW), Group 2 – nanocalcium hydroxide + DW, Group 3 – calcium hydroxide + chitosan, and Group 4 – calcium hydroxide + 2% chlorhexidine gluconate. Biomechanical preparation was done till the F2 rotary ProTaper system and intracanal medicaments were placed. Calcium ions and pH were assessed at 24 h, 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days using an ultraviolet spectrophotometer and pH meter, respectively. The evaluation of tubule penetration was scanned under a field emission scanning electron microscope.

Results:

A significant difference was seen in calcium ion release and pH change among the four groups at 24 h, 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days as well as depth of dentinal penetration.

Conclusion:

Calcium hydroxide mixed with 2% chlorhexidine gel showed alkaline pH and the highest calcium ion release as well as significant dentinal tubule penetration among all the four groups under observation. Both combinations can enhance antimicrobial effectiveness as intracanal medicaments. Further clinical study should be carried out to optimize its use as an alternative treatment modality.
Comparative evaluation of the effect of 37% orthophosphoric acid pre-etching on the microtensile enamel bond strength using universal adhesive and two-step self-etch adhesive systems – An in vitro study
Authors: Menon Krutika , Vijayaraghavan Siddheswaran , Dhanyakumar N. M.
Published: November 2023

Context:

The significance of enamel etching has been well-researched and established. Limited literature is available comparing the enamel bond strengths of the two-step self-etch adhesive system and the newly introduced universal adhesive (UA) system with prior acid etching.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of composite to enamel with and without 37% orthophosphoric acid pre-etching using a recently introduced UA and a two-step self-etch adhesive.

Subjects and Methods:

This in vitro, experimental study was conducted on 48 extracted human third molar teeth. Two enamel surface fragments were obtained per tooth, polished using 600-grit silicon carbide abrasive paper, and randomly divided into four groups-CLEARFIL SE BOND with and without acid pre-etching and G-Premio Bond with and without acid pre-etching. The samples were etched using 37% phosphoric acid gel for 30 s, followed by the bonding protocol. Composite resin blocks were built incrementally to a thickness of approximately 6 mm, and the restored samples were stored in distilled water for 24 h at 37°C. They were then sectioned, mounted, and subjected to a μTBS test using a universal testing machine.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis of the data was performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test using SPSS software version 22.0.

Results:

Samples bonded with the UA subjected to prior acid etching protocol demonstrated the highest enamel μTBS. In contrast, those treated with the two-step self-etch adhesive without prior acid etching demonstrated the lowest enamel μTBS. Pre-etching with phosphoric acid significantly increased the enamel bond strength of both bonding agents, with the universal agent showing better results than the two-step adhesive system.

Conclusions:

Enamel etching with phosphoric acid significantly increases the bond strength of self-etch adhesives. UA with prior acid etching showed the maximum enamel μTBS. Two-step self-etch adhesive without prior acid etching yielded enamel μTBSs unacceptable for long-term, durable bonding.
The United Kingdom National Health Service through the Lens of an Overseas Clinical Observer: A Reflective Account Based on Personal Experience
Authors: Salami Babatunde Abayomi , Ahmad Nadeem , Ayantunde Abraham Abiodun , Praveen Bandipalyam , Adesanya Adedoyin Adekunle
Published: November 2023

This article provides insight into an aspect of the National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom (UK) through the perspective of an overseas clinical observer. The NHS is a government-funded medical and health care service in the UK and has developed over the years providing a high standard of medical care and professionalism. The Clinical Observership Programme has been designed primarily for International Medical Graduates to experience how the NHS functions and the kind of services it offers. This article explores the overseas observer’s experience in a surgical unit of the NHS including the organisational structure, delivery of care and challenges of the system. This article also highlights the observer’s perspective of surgical care in the NHS compared to surgical care in low-resource income countries. The Clinical Observership is useful in learning about UK medical practice and gaining experience in a different cultural and professional environment. This is a reflective first-hand account based on personal experience.
Tumor rupture and partial gut obstruction: Atypical presentations in a patient with adenomyosis
Authors: Siao Ma. Patricia Grace O. , Figueras-Prieto Izabelle Julienne A.
Published: November 2023

A 49-year-old woman, Gravida 8 Para 8 (8007), came in due to vomiting and enlarging abdominal mass. Initial diagnosis was partial gut obstruction and acute kidney injury probably secondary to adenomyosis versus colonic pathology. Ultrasound showed adenomyosis but computed tomography scan showed a uterine mass with possible tumor rupture and mass effects. Emergency hysterectomy was done and showed an ill-defined endometrial mass with multiple areas of rupture. It was diagnosed with malignant but final histopathology revealed extensive adenomyosis with acute inflammation and necrosis with no malignancy identified. Unusual symptoms such as uterine rupture and mass effects can accompany adenomyosis, alongside typical signs like pain and bleeding. Ultrasound aided the diagnosis, although it missed uterine rupture, highlighting its limitations. Magnetic resonance imaging could have been useful. Ultimately, histopathology is the gold standard for diagnosing adenomyosis.
Rank bounds in link Floer homology and detection results
Authors: Binns Fraser , Dey Subhankar
Published: November 2023

Viewing the BRAID invariant as a generator of link Floer homology, we generalize work of Baldwin–Vela-Vick to obtain rank bounds on the next-to-top grading of knot Floer homology. These allow us to classify links with knot Floer homology of rank at most eight and prove a variant of a classification of links with Khovanov homology of low rank due to Xie–Zhang. In another direction, we use a variant of Ozsváth–Szabó's classification of

E_2

collapsed

\mathbb{Z}\oplus\mathbb{Z}

filtered chain complexes to show that knot Floer homology detects

T(2,8)

and

T(2,10)

. Combining these techniques with the spectral sequences of Batson–Seed, Dowlin, and Lee, we can show that Khovanov homology likewise detects

T(2,8)

and

T(2,10)

.
Curves in the disc, the type $B$ braid group, and a type $B$ zigzag algebra
Authors: Heng Edmund , Nge Kie Seng
Published: November 2023

We construct a finite-dimensional quiver algebra from the non-simply laced type

B

Dynkin diagram, which we call type

B

zigzag algebra. This leads to a faithful categorical action of the type

B

Artin (braid) group

{\mathcal A}(B)

, acting on the homotopy category of its projective modules. This categorical action is also closely related to the topological action of

{\mathcal A}(B)

, viewed as mapping class group of the punctured disc – hence, our exposition can be seen as a type

B

analogue of Khovanov–Seidel's work.
Novel predictors of permanent pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Nwaedozie Somto , Zhang Haibin , Najjar Mojarrab Javad , Sharma Param , Yeung Paul , Umukoro Peter , Soodi Deepa , Gabor Rachel , Anderson Kelley , Garcia-Montilla Romel
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Conduction and rhythm abnormalities requiring permanent pacemakers (PPM) are short-term complications following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and their clinical outcomes remain conflicting. Potential novel predictors of post-TAVR PPM, like QRS duration, QTc prolongation, and supraventricular arrhythmias, have been poorly studied.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of baseline nonspecific interventricular conduction delay and supraventricular arrhythmia on post-TAVR PPM requirement and determine the impact of PPM implantation on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study that identified patients with TAVR between January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2019. The group was dichotomized into those with post-TAVR PPM and those without PPM. Both groups were followed for one year.

RESULTS

Out of the 357 patients that met inclusion criteria, the mean age was 80 years, 188 (52.7%) were male, and 57 (16%) had a PPM implantation. Baseline demographics, valve type, and cardiovascular risk factors were similar except for type II diabetes mellitus (DM), which was more prevalent in the PPM cohort (59.6% vs 40.7%; P = 0.009). The PPM cohort had a significantly higher rate of pre-procedure right bundle branch block, prolonged QRS > 120 ms, prolonged QTc > 470 ms, and supraventricular arrhythmias. There was a consistently significant increase in the odds ratio (OR) of PPM implantation for every 20 ms increase in the QRS duration above 100 ms: QRS 101-120 [OR: 2.44; confidence intervals (CI): 1.14-5.25; P = 0.022], QRS 121-140 (OR: 3.25; CI: 1.32-7.98; P = 0.010), QRS 141-160 (OR: 6.98; CI: 3.10-15.61; P < 0.001). After model adjustment for baseline risk factors, the OR remained significant for type II DM (aOR: 2.16; CI: 1.18-3.94; P = 0.012), QRS > 120 (aOR: 2.18; CI: 1.02-4.66; P = 0.045) and marginally significant for supraventricular arrhythmias (aOR: 1.82; CI: 0.97-3.42; P = 0.062). The PPM cohort had a higher adjusted OR of heart failure (HF) hospitalization (aOR: 2.2; CI: 1.1-4.3; P = 0.022) and nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) (aOR: 3.9; CI: 1.1-14; P = 0.031) without any difference in mortality (aOR: 1.1; CI: 0.5-2.7; P = 0.796) at one year.

CONCLUSION

Pre-TAVR type II DM and QRS duration > 120, regardless of the presence of bundle branch blocks, are predictors of post-TAVR PPM. At 1-year post-TAVR, patients with PPM have higher odds of HF hospitalization and MI.
Um currículo que guarde um pouco da terra nas mãos
Authors: Amorim Antonio Carlos Rodrigues de , Fonseca Fabíola Simões Rodrigues da
Published: November 2023

Este ensaio deriva da necessidade latente de criar educações possíveis em tempos de mudanças climáticas, na urgência de olharmos nossas formas de estar no mundo e de fazer nossas composições. É deflagrado por reconhecer que a paisagem das mudanças climáticas é marcada por um legado colonizador de estar no mundo, em que nossas formas de sentir e de conviver estão bastante contaminadas por isso. Desenvolveu-se uma pesquisa-criação na qual Biologia e Arte são linhas para composição de currículos, em atravessamentos com perspectivas da crítica à representação. Os espaços e tempos de inventar currículos são um ateliê virtual de experimentação com palavras e imagens. Geram-se territórios educativos pulsantes para outros possíveis de viver e morrer em uma terra arruinada.
Mudança de lentes e a prática docente
Authors: Aquino Rafael Santos de , Muhle Rita Paradeda , Farias Carmen Roselaine de Oliveira , Leão Ana Maria dos Anjos Carneiro
Published: November 2023

A Prática de Ecologia é um componente curricular da licenciatura em Ciências Biológicas de uma universidade pública de Pernambuco. Uma fundamentação teórica e metodológica embasada nos paradigmas sistêmico, complexo e ecológico e aplicada à Prática de Ecologia criou condições para mudanças na prática docente. Este componente foi analisado na perspectiva da pesquisa temática organizada em torno de uma reflexão paradigmática da ciência com foco na ecologia. Este trabalho conta com descrição analítica do componente, incluído aspectos da construção e prática didático-pedagógica adotada. O relato de experiência permitiu o exercício da complexidade na articulação com métodos, perspectivas e teorias, bem como autoanálise do professor formador sobre sua práxis, contribuindo com os debates sobre a ação pedagógica em ecologia na licenciatura.
A alquimia dos Mestrados Profissionais em Ensino como inovações curriculares
Authors: Wardenski Rosilaine , Ferreira Márcia Serra
Published: November 2023

Esse artigo analisa os discursos veiculados pelas políticas oficiais para o Mestrado Profissional (MP) em Ensino que participam da produção de sentidos sobre a relação teoria e prática. Em perspectiva sociocultural, investiga os discursos presentes em Documentos emitidos pela Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior para a área de Ensino. A constituição desses cursos está envolvida em uma história permeada por singularidades, como a criação dos próprios MP, em meio a repetibilidades. O MP é visto como uma inovação devido ao impacto em diferentes níveis de ensino, legitimada pelos discursos sobre a relação entre teoria e prática proferidos na avaliação. Em estudos como esse, pretendemos facilitar uma proliferação de sentidos possíveis para os currículos.
O componente curricular Ciências no currículo Bahia
Authors: Costa Jéssica Gomes das Mercês , Carmo Edinaldo Medeiros , Selles Sandra Lúcia Escovedo
Published: November 2023

Este artigo objetiva compreender a configuração do componente curricular Ciências no Documento Curricular Referencial da Bahia (DCRB), tomando com abordagem teórico-metodológica o ciclo de políticas de Stephen Ball e colaboradores. Destarte, o documento baiano foi comparado com a Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC), mediante a avalição da escrita, estrutura e discursos materializados na disciplina Ciências. Os resultados apontam que este componente curricular na Base Nacional apresenta uma configuração limitante para a formação integral, com uma estrutura normativa, uma escrita prescritiva e apresenta discursos que cerceiam o processo de ensino e aprendizagem mediante monitoramento dos conhecimentos. No DCRB, a proposta do ensino de Ciências se apresenta mais dialógica e ampla, visto que relaciona o ensino de Ciências com diversas abordagens que visam a formação integral.
Perspectivas para o enfrentamento do negacionismo científico em livros didáticos de projetos integradores de Ciências da Natureza e suas tecnologias
Authors: Amaro Luciana Carolina de Souza , Azevedo Maicon Jeferson da Costa , Borba Rodrigo Cerqueira do Nascimento
Published: November 2023

O artigo analisa como três livros didáticos de Projetos Integradores de Ciências da Natureza e suas Tecnologias aprovados pelo Programa Nacional do Livro e do Material Didático de 2021 abordam possibilidades de enfrentamento ao negacionismo científico. Tendo estudos dos campos do Currículo e da Educação em Ciências como alicerces teórico-metodológicos, a pesquisa identificou que as obras tendem a apostar no desenvolvimento de práticas argumentativas e na problematização de fake news. Dois dos livros possuem propostas similares para a valorização social da ciência e combate ao negacionismo. Porém, uma das obras apresenta conteúdos mais restritos sobre tais temáticas. Essa discrepância flagra lances de certa disputa pelos currículos escolares, que os livros didáticos materializam, também quando o assunto é o negacionismo científico.
Valorization of traditional ornaments in the classes of fine arts in extracurricular education
Authors: ROȘCA-CEBAN Daniela , ARBUZ-SPATARI Olimpiada
Published: November 2023

According to the provisions of the Education Code of the Republic of Moldova (Official Gazette No. 319-324 art. No: 634), Chapter VII. Article 36. (1) "Extracurricular education is carried out outside the school program and activity through activities complementary to the educational process carried out in educational institutions and aims to develop the cognitive, affective and action potential of children and young people, to respond to their interests and options for free time".
Knowledge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) amongst Food Handlers
Authors:   Food Standards Agency, Research Opinium
Published: November 2023

a commitment was made in the 2019-2024 UK wide AMR National Action Plan (NAP) (Opens in a new window) to explore and track perceptions of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) bacteria in food, amongst food handlers Opinium were commissioned by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to conduct quantitative research to understand awareness and knowledge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) amongst food handlers in the United Kingdom (UK) a series of questions were run in a 5 minute online survey, broadly matching similar consumers surveys carried out in 2016, 2019 and 2021 the sample comprised 500 UK workers who handle food, or touch surfaces likely to be in contact with food, who completed the survey between the 28th June and 8th July 2022. Main fin