bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excess mortality and COVID-19 deaths in Italy: A peak comparison study
Authors: Roccetti Marco
Published: February 2023

During a sanitary crisis, excess mortality measures the number of all-cause deaths, beyond what we would have expected if that crisis had not occurred. The high number of COVID-19 deaths started a debate in Italy with two opposite positions: those convinced that COVID-19 deaths were not by default excess deaths, because many COVID-19 deaths were not correctly registered, with most being attributable to other causes and to the overall crisis conditions; and those who presented the opposite hypothesis. We analyzed the curve of the all-cause excess mortality, during the period of January 5, 2020–October 31, 2022, compared to the curve of the daily confirmed COVID-19 deaths, investigating the association between excess mortality and the recurrence of COVID-19 waves in Italy. We compared the two curves looking for the corresponding highest peaks, and we found that 5 out of the 6 highest peaks (83.3%) of the excess mortality curve have occurred, on average, just a week before the concomitant COVID-19 waves hit their highest peaks of daily deaths (Mean 6.4 days; SD 2.4 days). This temporal correspondence between the moments when the excess mortality peaked and the highest peaks of the COVID-19 deaths, provides further evidence in favor of a positive correlation between COVID-19 deaths and all-cause excess mortality.
The ethical principles and caring behavior of Indonesian nurses
Authors: Ilkafah Ilkafah , Tyas Anestasia Pangestu Mei , Rachmawaty Rini
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The caring behavior of nurses affects their working performance and the health care quality received by patients. The adherence to ethical principles by nurses is also known to increase this factor. However, no previous studies have been conducted on how ethical principles affect the caring behaviors of nurses. Hence, this study aims to investigate the association between nursing ethics and other demographic characteristics and their caring behavior in Indonesian hospitals.

Design and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted with 389 nurses working in Indonesian hospitals. Furthermore, data were collected using questionnaires, which included demographic characteristics, ethical principles-based attitudes, and caring behavior. The analysis of the data was performed using descriptive (M, SD) and inferential statistics (Chi-square, Spearman’s rank correlation, Fisher’s exact test, and multiple logistic regression) with α= 0.05.

Results: According to this study, the caring behavior of nurses was associated with gender (p=0.030) and nursing ethical principles, such as veracity (p=0.025), non-maleficence (p=0.007), beneficence (p<0.000), and fidelity (p<0.000). Fidelity was also revealed as the most influential ethical principle on nurses’ caring behavior, with a value of Exp(B)= 3.446. This indicates that nurses, who had demonstrated good fidelity, cared three times more than those who lacked this quality.

Conclusions: Nurses with good ethical principles deliver suitable caring behavior. Hence, applying the right ethics to a patient would result in a great caring attitude, as the principle of ethical behavior is compassion and respectful conduct towards patients.
Strategies to improving patient safety in hospitals
Authors: Taji Mohamad , Putra Kuswantoro Rusca , Ismail Dina Dewi Sartika Lestari
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Patient safety is the initial foundation of quality healthcare that shared responsibility between policymakers as well as healthcare delivery, especially nurses, who aim for improvement. Interventions in patient safety culture reduce safety incidents, thereby, lowering the disability rates and deaths due to side effects of healthcare delivery. Therefore, this research aims to provide an overview of strategies to improve patient safety culture, which involves nurses in hospital settings.

Design and Methods: In this research, a Scoping review was carried out using online database searches at ProQuest, Ebsco, and Sciencedirect. The selected article was experimental research, using English, published between 2011-2021, and fulfilled the criteria for inclusion and exclusion set.

Result: In the initial disbursement, 480 articles were obtained with 13 studies that meet the inclusion criteria. The articles obtained used quasi-experimental research methods (2 articles), pre-post intervention design (4 articles), intervention time series (2 articles), randomized controlled trial (1 article), prospective cohort intervention (1 article), repeated cross-sectional experimental research (1 article), Mix quasi-experimental method non-randomized design and qualitative (1 article), and control groups (4 articles). Based on the articles obtained, the strategies to increase the patient safety culture in hospitals can be categorized into 4, which include educational, simulation, team, and comprehensive programs.

Conclusions: All interventions implemented possess a positive impact on patient safety culture.
The application of the public health model in pregnancy coaching for preventing high-risk pregnancy
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Wuriningsih Apriliani Yulianti , Nursalam Nursalam , Arief Yuni Sufyanti
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Primary Health Care which is part of the Public Health Model can be applied through Pregnancy Coaching to prevent high-risk pregnancies. Design and Methods: This study was conducted using the literature review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) method. Results: A total of 152 articles were obtained from different databases consisting of Scopus 7, Pro-Quest 24, Science Direct 39, Pub Med 25, EBSCO 57 and were analyzed by excluding articles using PICOS. The data collection was restricted to pregnancy, pregnancy coaching, research-relevant interventions, outcomes, and article that are not systematic reviews, hence, the analysis obtained 20 relevant articles. Conclusion: Primary Health Care which is part of the Public Health Model aimed at reducing new cases is applicable to pregnant women in preventing high-risk pregnancy by optimizing health cadres.
The effectiveness of nursing psychoeducation toward family burden and quality life on caregiver of people with schizophrenia in the community
Authors: Suharsono Suharsono , Faidah Noor , Hanafi Moh
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The caregivers of people with schizophrenia have problems that include high family, burden and low quality of life at home. Therefore, this study aims to determine the effectiveness of nursing psychoeducation on family, burdens and quality of life in caregivers of schizophrenia patients in the community.

Design and Methods: This study used a pre-test and post-test group control design and repeated measurement with a total of 100 respondents. The treatment group was given weekly nursing psychoeducation for seven sessions. Also, the general linear model (GLM) was used to analyze the result.

Results: This study showed that before the intervention of nursing psychoeducation, the average family burden was 49,02 and 46.28 in the treatment and control groups, respectively. This decreased to 38.24 and 37.56 in the first and fourth weeks of posttreatment. Meanwhile, the control group was 44.86 in the first week and 45.62 in the fourth. The psychoeducation had an effect on decreasing the family burden with a p value < 0.001. Moreover, this study showed that before the intervention of nursing psychoeducation, the average caregiver quality of life was 75,72 and 74.24 in the treatment. After treatment, it increased to 91.22 in the first week after intervention and 92.54 in the fourth week of post-intervention. Therefore, the intervention effectively improved the caregiver quality of life with p < 0.001

Conclusions: Nursing psychoeducation can effectively reduce family burdens and improve the quality of life for caregivers.
Comparative Evaluation of Cleaning Efficacy of Self-adjusting File and WaveOne File
Authors: Bakthavatchalam Balakrishnan , Ranjani Muthukrishnan Sudharshana , Amudhalakshmi Krishnan
Published: February 2023

Aim:

This study aims to compare the cleaning efficacy of root canal walls using two rotary single file systems: self-adjusting file (SAF) and WaveOne (WO).

Materials and Methods:

Forty extracted human premolars with similar range of canal curvature were selected, decoronated, working length determined and roots were divided into two groups of 20 samples each: Group I - SAF and Group II - WO. All root canals were irrigated with 3% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The roots were sectioned longitudinally and subjected to scanning electron microscopic examination. The amount of debris and smear layer was evaluated using five score index at coronal, middle and apical third levels. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chi-square test and significance was set at a P < 0.05.

Results:

Statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in cleaning the apical third. Group I (SAF) showed better canal cleanliness compared to Group II (WO) in the apical third.

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of this study, SAF in combination with 3% NaOCl and 17% EDTA irrigating solution had significantly better cleaning efficacy in the apical third of root canals when compared to WO rotary file system.
A Comparative Evaluation of Efficacy of Gingival Retraction Using Polyvinyl Siloxane Foam Retraction System, Vinyl Polysiloxane Paste Retraction System, and Copper Wire Reinforced Retraction Cord in Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Mehta Sonal , Virani Hemali , Memon Sarfaraz , Nirmal Narendra
Published: February 2023

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of three gingival retraction systems such as polyvinyl siloxane foam retraction system (magic foam cord; Coltene/WhaledentInc), polysiloxane paste retraction system (GingiTrac; Centrix), and aluminum chloride impregnated twisted retraction cord (Stay-Put; Roeko) in endodontically treated teeth.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who were endodontically treated for molars and requiring crown for the same, were selected for the present study with sample size of 45. The 45 participants were divided into three groups. Group 1 was treated with Stay-Put, Group 2 with Magic Foam, and Group 3 with GingiTrac. About 90 elastomeric impressions of the participants were taken—45 impressions before retraction and 45 impressions after retraction. The sulcus width was measured on the die obtained from the elastomeric impressions by placing the dies under OVI-200 optical microscope in combination with X soft imaging system software attached to a computer.

Results:

The study indicated 0.465627 mm ± 0.063066 mm of gingival retraction for aluminum chloride impregnated retraction cord, 0.210993 mm ± 0.067358 mm of gingival retraction for GingiTrac paste, and 0.294147 mm ± 0.056697 mm of gingival retraction for magic foam cord.

Conclusion:

The study data indicated that the new retraction systems are not as effective as the standard retraction cord; however, of the two new systems the Magic Foam system did prove to be effective enough for clinical use. The GingiTrac system failed to achieve the minimum gingival retraction required and hence may not be suitable for clinical use.
Vestibular Incision Subperiosteal Tunnel Access (VISTA) for Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT)
Authors: Zadeh Homayoun H. , Borzabadi-Farahani Ali , Fotovat Mehdi , Kim Seong-Hun
Published: February 2023

Surgically Facilitated Orthodontic Therapy (SFOT) in combination with bone augmentation and the placement of anchorage devices installed into bone have been used to accelerate and facilitate orthodontic treatment. This is usually performed after flap surgery, which is associated with moderate morbidity, as well as possible negative sequale such as gingival recession. The present case report illustrates the clinical benefits of vestibular incision subperiosteal tunnel access (VISTA) for SFOT, and tissue augmentation to facilitate orthodontic therapy. VISTA entails making vertical incision(s) in the vestibule followed by subperiosteal elevation of tunnels to provide direct access to the facial alveolar bone. Unlike previously reported vestibular access surgical procedures, VISTA allows for wider elevation of an access tunnel for clear visual and surgical access to perform careful inter-radicular corticotomy. The present report describes VISTA for corticotomy surgery (anterior mandible and maxillary teeth) in combination with the placement of titanium fixation devices and bone augmentation to facilitate orthodontic treatment of an adult female with borderline Class II Division 1 malocclusion, with excessive overjet and deepbite. In view of the fact that VISTA does not require surface incisions in the gingival margins or papillae, it potentially minimizes gingival recession that sometimes accompanies flap surgery.
Degree of Conversion and Polymerization Shrinkage of Low Shrinkage Bulk-Fill Resin Composites
Authors: Salem Haidy N. , Hefnawy Sherif M. , Nagi Shaymaa M.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The effectiveness of each resin composite material composition in enabling homogeneous monomer conversion and reducing polymerization shrinkage (PS) is an important issue. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the degree of conversion (DC) and PS of low-shrinkage bulk-fill composites (BFCs) in 4-mm thickness.

Materials and Methods:

Four bulk fill (Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill, Sonic Fill, XTra Fill, and Venus Bulk Fill) and one conventional (Filtek Z350 XT) resin composites were tested in this study. Teflon molds of 4-mm depth were used to prepare resin composite specimens. All tested resin composites were packed in bulk then light cured for the recommended time by their manufacturers. DC% was determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; PS was determined using the strain gauge method. Data were subjected to one-way ANOVA/Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results:

DC% results were as follows: Venus Bulk Fill > XTra Fill > Sonic Fill > Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill > Filtek Z350 XT with a significant difference between each others at P ≤ 0.001. For PS %, significant difference resulted between tested groups at P ≤ 0.001. Where Venus Bulk Fill < XTra Fill = Sonic Fill < Tetric EvoCeram Bulk Fill < Filtek Z350 XT.

Conclusions:

Low-shrinkage resin monomers seem to be beneficial for reducing PS with enhancement in the DC. Increased filler loading in BFCs had a positive effect on reducing PS, while its effect on the DC was material dependent.
Plasma-Cell Gingivitis a Challenge to the Oral Physician
Authors: Negi Bhupender Singh , Kumar Nileena R. , Haris P. S. , Yogesh Jiwane Achal , Vijayalakshmi C. , James Jeswin
Published: February 2023

Plasma-cell gingivitis (PCG) is an uncommon inflammatory condition of idiopathic etiology. PCG is a rare condition, appearing as erythema (redness) and edema (swelling) of the attached gingiva. The diagnosis of PCG is based on arrant history taking, clinical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tests. Here, we are presenting a case of PCG in a 12-year-old boy, its management and treatment outcome after 3 years of regular follow-up in tertiary health-care center in North Kerala.
Salivary Interleukin-6 Levels among Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients with and Without Chronic Periodontitis – A Comparative Study
Authors: Varghese Arun , Balu Pratebha , R Saravanakumar , Muthu Jananni , Vineela K.
Published: February 2023

Background:

Periodontitis is associated with various systemic diseases one of which is poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a genetically complex endocrinopathy of uncertain etiology affecting women of the reproductive age group which results in the most common cause of anovulatory infertility, menstrual dysfunction, and hirsutism. PCOS has a close association with cardiometabolic risk profile, insulin resistance (IR), hyperinsulinemia, central obesity, dyslipidemia, and increasing the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors. The common pathway is the chronic low-grade inflammation which is constituted by pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-6.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to compare salivary IL-6 levels among polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients with and without chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:

Newly diagnosed PCOS patients were selected for the study, and the periodontal parameters were recorded. Group A consists of 42 patients of PCOS with periodontitis and Group B consists of 42 patients of PCOS without periodontitis. Salivary levels of IL-6 were compared between the two groups and were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (bioassay).

Results:

The mean pocket depth in Group A was 4.23 ± 0.134 and that of Group B was 1.30 ± 0.06. The mean bleeding on probing in Group A was 1.40 ± 0.40 and in Group B it was 0.91 ± 0.18. The mean clinical attachment level in Group A was 4.87 ± 0.124 and that of Group B was 1.30 ± 0.06. The mean difference in clinical parameters was statistically significant between the groups (P ≤ 0.001). IL-6 level in group A is 102.59 ± 18.2 and in Group B it was 51.3 ± 25.3.

Conclusion:

Salivary IL-6 levels show a double-fold increase in PCOS with periodontitis than in PCOS without periodontitis. This study reflects the importance of periodontal health and the prevention of periodontal disease so as to minimize IR in PCOS patients with periodontitis.
Impact of Oral Health Educational Intervention on Smoking among Male Adolescents
Authors: AlAbdullah Hassan , AlFahid Ali Sadeq , AlQarni Abdulaziz , Nazir Muhammad Ashraf
Published: February 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of oral health educational intervention on smoking among male Saudi adolescents.

Methods:

This study included participants from male public high schools (10–12-grade students) in Dammam, Dhahran, and Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, between March 2018 and May 2018. Multistage random sampling was used to recruit the students. The participants received two sessions of oral health educational intervention, which was based on educating the adverse effects of smoking on oral health. A pilot-tested questionnaire was used to collect preintervention and postintervention data. McNemar's test was performed for statistical analysis.

Results:

There were 432 participants in the study with a mean age of 10.18 ± 8.44 years. The prevalence of smoking was 31.7% in the preintervention stage. Over half the participants (60.6%) had family history of smoking. There was no reduction in smoking prevalence after the educational intervention. A significant improvement in the awareness about the effects of smoking on oral health was observed after the intervention (P < 0.05). The proportion of smokers willing to quit smoking significantly increased from 34.3% in the preintervention stage to 55.5% in postintervention stage (P = 0.021). Similarly, the percentage of smokers willing to join smoking cessation program increased after the intervention.

Conclusion:

There was a significant improvement in the awareness about the effects of smoking on oral health. The study found significantly higher percentage of adolescents willing to quit smoking after oral health educational interventions. The smoking cessation campaigns should include the education of adverse effects of smoking on oral health.
Comparative Evaluation of Extrusion of Apical Debris in Primary Anterior Teeth using Two Different Rotary Systems and Hand Files
Authors: Asif Ahsana , Jeevanandan Ganesh , Govindaraju Lavanya , Vignesh R. , G. Subramanian E. M.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The success of endodontic treatment depends on the chemomechanical preparation of the tooth. However, the debris produced during canal preparation may extrude through the apical foramen causing postoperative complications.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to compare the apical debris extrusion during root canal preparation in primary anterior teeth using hand files, rotary ProTaper files, and rotary Kedo-S files.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-five freshly extracted primary canine with mature apices and a single canal were randomly divided into three groups for instrumentation as follows (n = 15): Group 1: hand files; Group 2: rotary ProTaper files; and Group 3: rotary Kedo-S files. Myers and Montgomery experimental model was used for this study. Apically extruded debris collected in a preweighed Eppendorf tubes was placed in the incubator at 70°C for 5 days. The weight of the debris collected was determined by subtracting the pre- and post-instrumentation weight of the Eppendorf tubes. The data collected were analyzed using the analysis of variance and Tukey's post-hoc tests.

Results:

Hand files produced more apical debris extrusion than ProTaper and Kedo-S files (P < 0.05) while Kedo-S produced the least (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

All instrumentation systems cause apical debris extrusion. Kedo-S produced less apical debris extrusion when compared to the hand files and ProTaper files.
Quantification and Comparison of the Impact of the Smoking Status on Oral Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte and Malondialdehyde Levels in Individuals with Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Padhye Ninad Milind , Padhye Ashvini Mukul , Gupta Himani Swatantrakumar
Published: February 2023

Background:

The formation of reactive oxygen species by oral polymorphonuclear leukocytes (oPMNs) is amplified in smokers with chronic periodontitis (CP) causing tissue damage which can be measured by quantifying levels of malondialdehyde (MDA).

Objective:

To quantify and compare the impact of smoking status on oPMN and MDA in individuals with CP before and after scaling and root planing (SRP).

Materials and Methods:

Sixty individuals were divided into four groups, namely, periodontally healthy (Group A), current smokers with CP (Group B), former smokers with CP (Group C), and nonsmokers with CP (Group D). Parameters assessed were bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), clinical attachment level, gingival recession, periodontal inflamed surface area, salivary MDA, and oPMN at baseline and 6 and 12 weeks after SRP.

Results:

Increased PPD (P = 0.01) and decreased GI (P = 0.021) was noted in Group B as compared to C and D at baseline. Periodontal intervention caused a greater resolution of inflammation in Groups C and D as compared to B as noted from the GI and BOP. A reduction in MDA (P = 0.074) was noted in Groups C and D as compared to B, and oPMN levels were higher (P = 0.009) in Group C and D as compared to B.

Conclusion:

Greater periodontal destruction is seen in current smokers than former and nonsmokers with CP. MDA can be considered as a reliable biomarker for oxidative stress as it directly correlates with the oPMN levels.
Giant mucinous cystadenoma of the pancreas in a young female
Authors: Reddy Ravikanth
Published: February 2023

Cystic tumors of the pancreas are rare and may be confused with hydatid cysts, especially in endemic areas. The incidence of cystic neoplasms of the pancreas is relatively rare in the pediatric population and young adults. We present a 21-year-old female with a well-defined giant multiloculated cystic lesion in the body and tail of the pancreas, which was diagnosed as a hydatid cyst elsewhere. The patient underwent laparoscopic spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy. There was no visible communication between the mucinous cystic neoplasm and the pancreatic duct. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of benign mucinous cystadenoma of the pancreas. Ambiguity in the management of the lesion arises when mucinous cystadenoma is commonly misdiagnosed as pancreatic pseudocyst because the surgical management is entirely different.
Medium-Term Risk of Recurrent Pelvic Organ Prolapse within 2-Year Follow-Up after Laparoscopic Sacrocolpopexy
Authors: Sato Hirotaka , Otsuka Shota , Abe Hirokazu , Miyagawa Tomoaki
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The present study was performed to determine the risk of recurrent pelvic organ prolapse (POP) within 2 years after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (LSC) in patients with uterovaginal prolapse.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective comparative study was performed in a population of 204 patients over a 2-year follow-up period following LSC with concomitant supracervical hysterectomy or uterine preservation at a single urological clinic between 2015 and 2019. The primary outcome was surgical failure following LSC in cases of POP, focusing on failures occurring before the 2ndyear of follow-up. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the odds ratios (ORs) for surgical failure.

Results:

The primary outcome, surgical failure in cases of POP, occurred 2 years after the initial surgery in 19 of the 204 patients (9.3%) (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.7% – 14.2%). Surgical failure was most common in the anterior compartment (n = 10, 4.9%), and further surgery was performed in seven of the patients with surgical failure (3.4%). The poor primary outcome was predicted by lysis of adhesions (OR, 7.5, 95% CI, 1.6–33.8, P = 0.008) and preoperative POP stage IV (OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.1–10.8, P = 0.03) on multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion:

The overall rate of surgical failure following LSC in our cohort was 9.3% over the 2-year follow-up period after surgery, and preoperative prolapse stage IV was associated with a higher risk of recurrence.
Incidence and risk factors of ipsilateral shoulder pain in patients after thoracic surgeries
Authors: Sayed Atikh Ahmed Shafik Ahmed , Vijayakumar Lakshmi Sagar , Chatterjee Aparna , Thota Raghu S.
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims:

Ipsilateral shoulder pain (ISP) post-thoracotomy impairs the recovery in early postoperative period, the aetiology of which is unclear. We studied to find out the incidence and risk factors associated with ISP.

Methods:

We did a prospective observational study, wherein 296 patients scheduled for thoracic surgeries were enroled. Pain in the shoulder during activity was assessed using American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons standardised assessment method. All potential predictors were analysed in a multivariable penalised logistic regression model, using ISP as the outcome variable.

Results:

Of the 296 patients, 118 (39.8%) patients developed ISP. Of the 296 patients, 170 patients underwent thoracotomy and 110 underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgeries. The incidence of ISP was higher in thoracotomy patients (45.29%) compared to video-assisted thoracoscopic surgeries (32.7%). Majority of patients (43.2%) were aged more than 65 years, which was statistically significant as per univariate analysis (P = .007). The incidence of ISP was the highest at 41.89% among those who had lung cancer (n = 74), with disease involving right upper lobe and left upper lobe, 29% and 25.8%, respectively. The pain severity was moderate in 27.1% of patients during shoulder movements. Among the patients who had ISP, 77.1% expressed it as dull aching, whereas 21.2% described it as stabbing in nature.

Conclusion:

The incidence of ISP in those who underwent thoracic surgery was high and dull aching in nature, of mild to moderate intensity, commonly located on the posterior aspect of the shoulder. It was more common in those who underwent thoracotomy and more than 65 years of age.
Current Status of Preventive and Therapeutic Strategies Against Biofilm Formation in Arthroplasty
Authors: Tiwari Anjali , Yadav Amit Kumar , Bhansali Rakesh , Bagaria Vaibhav
Published: February 2023

Total joint replacements have increased significantly, resulting in a corresponding increase in infections. Consequently, patients may undergo additional surgical procedures and be prescribed antibiotics for a prolonged period due to these infections. Periprosthetic joint infections are associated with the development of bacterial biofilms. The biofilm is a microbial community attached to a surface containing one or more bacterial species. In orthopedics, biofilm-forming bacteria are the most severe infection that can lead to multiple operations, prolonged antibiotic therapy, morbidity, and increased health-care expenditures. These biofilm communities pose several clinical challenges relating to infection prevention, detection, and treatment. Over the past few years, biofilm formation mechanisms have been extensively studied, as have the mechanisms by which bacteria communicate within biofilms to perform specialized functions, such as persister cells. Currently, the orthopedic literature is very scarce, and understanding the cause and eradicating the disease requires a deep understanding. Several studies have demonstrated that the delivery of antibiotics locally through absorbable carriers and novel coatings for prostheses can deliver high concentrations of antibiotics. This literature review aims to identify mechanisms and structures of biofilm, especially in the context of arthroplasty, and to provide strategic guidance on current diagnosis, prevention, and target-specific treatment. In addition, the review discusses future diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
Surgical Tips/Tricks on Minimally Invasive Anterior Hip Replacement
Authors: Gupta Varun , Tran Phong , Arora Manit
Published: February 2023

Minimally Invasive Anterior Hip Replacement is an increasingly popular surgical technique of doing total hip arthroplasty (THA) offering several benefits and has been shown in various literature. However, the technique being challenging and specific, if not followed can lead to several complications. This article outlines the author’s technique of performing the Minimal Invasive Anterior Hip Replacement using a mobile leg positioner designed by Medacta (Strada Regina, Switzerland) on a standard operating table, highlighting tips/tricks for performing it safely.
The Outcome of Debridement in Massive and Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tear - A Systematic Review
Authors: Digge Vijay Kumar , Sai Krishna M. L. V. , Kar Santanu , Sahoo Bismaya , Kumar Vijay , Nag Hira Lal
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Multiple procedures have been described for massive and irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCTs), which involve either conservative trial or surgical options such as debridement, partial repair, superior capsule reconstruction, and arthroplasty. The choice of surgical procedure depends on various factors such as the age and activity level of the patient, tear configuration, and tissue quality, including both muscle and tendon. No consensus has been reached regarding optimal treatment in massive and irreparable RCTs.

Purpose

To systematically review the published literature assessing the outcomes after debridement alone for irreparable and massive RCTs.

Study Design:

Systematic review: Level of evidence-3.

Methodology

A thorough literature search was carried out in July 2021, using PubMed and Science direct electronic databases based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. All studies were analyzed for the procedures performed along with debridement and the outcomes of surgery with scores such as Constant score, University of California Los Angeles score, American Shoulder and Elbow Score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction.

Results

Out of 1223 search results, a total of 13 studies were included following the PRISMA guidelines, and data extraction and analysis were carried out. The total patient cohort was 360, with male predominance (62%). The mean age of the total studies included was 66.4 years (range, 60–75.6 years) and the mean follow-up duration was 57 months (range, 18 to 145 months). The constant score was used in 7/13 studies, and the range was from 31 (preoperative) to 84 (postoperative during follow-up). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons was used in 4/13 studies and the range was from 24 (preoperative) to 74 (postoperative during follow-up). University of California Los Angeles score was used in 6/13 studies and the range was from 8.4 (preoperative) to 27.7 (postoperative during follow-up). VAS was used in 6/13 studies and the range was from 9 (preoperative) to 0.5 (postoperative during follow-up).

Conclusion

Debridement, along with any of the concomitant procedures (Acromioplasty, tuberoplasty, tenotomy of long head of biceps), is a simple procedure and has favorable patient-related outcomes in terms of pain relief. However, the range of motion and muscle strength improvement depends on various factors such as transverse couples, coracoacromial ligament release, and preoperative movement, which necessitates further high-quality prospective randomized control studies.
Network pharmacology implicates traditional Chinese medicine in regulating systemic homeostasis to benefit Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tsai Sheng-Tzung , Huang Hsin-Yi
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACT

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has the characteristics of multi-component, multi-target, and biological systems coordination, which meet the criteria of the network pharmacological application. Therefore, using network pharmacology to discover the relationship between TCM, diseases, and cellular responses is easily achievable. Aging-induced imbalanced homeostasis is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neuronal disease regulated by multiple genes. Meta-analysis of TCM in metabolic regulation to improve symptoms of AD helps understand the pharmacological effects. The drug targets of TCM can be investigated using a holistic network pharmacology approach to find potential modulators involved in AD-related metabolic pathways. Based on the theoretical prediction of TCM for AD, experimental validation is needed to develop pure compounds for specific treatments.
Previous nonhepatectomy abdominal surgery did not increase the difficulty in laparoscopic hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma: A case–control study in 100 consecutive patients
Authors: Lee Yi-Hsuan , Lin Hsiu-Hsien , Kuo Tsai-Ling , Lee Ming-Che , Chen Yen-Cheng
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

Laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) is still technically challenging for patients with previous nonhepatectomy abdominal surgery (AS). Therefore, this study aimed to assess the difficulty of performing LH for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and a history of nonhepatectomy AS during the initial developing period of LH.

Materials and Methods:

The retrospective study enrolled patients who were newly diagnosed with HCC receiving LH from January 2013 to June 2021. Demographic characteristics, perioperative variables, and surgical complications were prospectively collected.

Results:

One hundred patients were reviewed consecutively, comprising 23 in the AS group and 77 in the non-AS group. No significant differences were observed in median IWATE score (5 vs. 5, P = 0.194), operative time (219 vs. 200 min, P = 0.609), blood loss (100.0 vs. 200.0 mL, P = 0.734), transfusion rate (4.3% vs. 10.4%, P = 0.374), duration of parenchyma transection (90.0 vs. 72.4 min, P = 0.673), and mean nonparenchymal transection time (191.0 vs. 125.0 min, P = 0.228), without increasing the conversion rate (0.0% vs. 3.9%, P = 0.336), postoperative complications (30.3% vs. 33.8%, P = 0.488), and postoperative hospital stay (6 vs. 7 days, P = 0.060) in AS group and non-AS groups.

Conclusion:

History of previous nonhepatectomy AS can lead to longer nonparenchymal transection time instead of conversion and did not increase the difficulty. Prolonged nonparenchymal transection time did not increase the surgical complications, prolong the postoperative hospital stay, and compromise the survival outcomes.
Effects of Early Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on Early Recovery of Urinary Incontinence after Prostate Surgery
Authors: Chen Yi-Hsuan , Juan Yung-Shun , Wei Wei-Chi , Geng Jiun-Hung , Chueh Kuang-Shun , Lee Hsiang-Ying
Published: February 2023

Purpose:

Postprostate surgeries urinary incontinence (UI) is one of the common bothersome complications of prostate surgery. Pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME) have been reported to have benefits in shortening postoperative recovery time of UI. The aim of our study is to evaluate the efficacy of intensive schedule of PFME and pelvic muscle electrical stimulation in improving the recovery of postoperative UI.

Materials and Methods:

We prospectively enrolled 72 patients (63 Benign prostate hyperplasia [BPH] and 9 prostate cancer [PC]) who received transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate (AEEP), Radical prostatectomy (RP) from January 2019 to December 2020. Twenty-seven patients who are unable to remove Foley catheter before discharge or loss follow-up were excluded. Finally, we enrolled 44 patients (35 BPH and 9 PC). All patients were assessed using the pad test, International Prostate Symptom Score, and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score. Abdominal ultrasonography or transrectal ultrasound of prostate was used to measure prostate volume and the postvoid residual urine volume.

Results:

The rate of UI was 60% and 88.9% immediately after removing the Foley catheter in TURP/AEEP and RP groups respectively. The incontinence rates in TURP/AEEP were 34.2%, 20%, and 3% after 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months' postoperation. In the RP group, the incontinence rate was 55.6%, 44.4% after 2 weeks, and 1 month postoperation. The pad amount was 63.11 ± 52.9 g, 37.89 ± 52.99 g, and 13.22 ± 18.48 g after 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months' postoperation.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated early intensive PFME program can shorten the recovery time of UI after prostate surgery.
Immunogenicity and Safety of Vaccines against Coronavirus Disease in Actively Treated Patients with Solid Tumors: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Baek Yae Jee , Lee Youn-Jung , Park So Ra , Kim Kyoo Hyun , Beom Seung-Hoon , Lee Choong-kun , Shin Sang Joon , Rha Sun Young , Kim Sinyoung , Lee Kyoung Hwa , Kim Jung Ho , Jeong Su Jin , Ku Nam Su , Choi Jun Yong , Yeom Joon-Sup , Jung Minkyu , Ahn Jin Young
Published: February 2023

Purpose We aimed to assess the humoral response to and reactogenicity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination according to the vaccine type and to analyze factors associated with immunogenicity in actively treated solid cancer patients (CPs).Materials and Methods Prospective cohorts of CPs, undergoing anticancer treatment, and healthcare workers (HCWs) were established. The participants had no history of previous COVID-19 and received either mRNA-based or adenovirus vector–based (AdV) vaccines as the primary series. Blood samples were collected before the first vaccination and after 2 weeks for each dose vaccination. Spike-specific binding antibodies (bAbs) in all participants and neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) wild-type, Delta, and Omicron variants in CPs were analyzed and presented as the geometric mean titer.Results Age-matched 20 HCWs and 118 CPs were included in the analysis. The bAb seroconversion rate and antibody concentrations after the first vaccination were significantly lower in CPs than in HCWs. After the third vaccination, antibody levels in CPs with a primary series of AdV were comparable to those in HCWs, but nAb titers against the Omicron variant did not quantitatively increase in CPs with AdV vaccine as the primary series. The incidence and severity of adverse reactions post-vaccination were similar between CPs and HCWs.Conclusion CPs displayed delayed humoral immune response after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. The booster dose elicited comparable bAb concentrations between CPs and HCWs, regardless of the primary vaccine type. Neutralization against the Omicron variant was not robustly elicited following the booster dose in some CPs, implying the need for additional interventions to protect them from COVID-19.
Exotic Lagrangian tori in Grassmannians
Authors: Castronovo Marco
Published: February 2023

We describe an iterative construction of Lagrangian tori in the complex Grassmannian

\operatorname{Gr}(k,n)

, based on the cluster algebra structure of the coordinate ring of a mirror Landau–Ginzburg model proposed by Marsh and Rietsch (2020). Each torus comes with a Laurent polynomial, and local systems controlled by the

k

-variables Schur polynomials at the

n

-th roots of unity. We use this data to give examples of monotone Lagrangian tori that are neither displaceable nor Hamiltonian isotopic to each other, and that support nonzero objects in different summands of the spectral decomposition of the Fukaya category over

\mathbb{C}

.
Thermally reused solar energy harvesting using current mirror cells
Authors: Noohi Mostafa , Mirvakili Ali , Safdarkhani Hadi , Sadrossadat Sayed Alireza
Published: February 2023

This paper implements a simultaneous solar and thermal energy harvesting system, as a hybrid energy harvesting (HEH) system, to convert ambient light into electrical energy through photovoltaic (PV) cells and heat absorbed in the body of PV cells. Indeed, a solar panel equipped with serially connected thermoelectric generators not only converts the incoming light into electricity but also takes advantage of heat emanating from the light. In a conventional HEH system, the diode block is used to provide the path for the input source with the highest value. In this scheme, at each time, only one source can be handled to generate its output, while other sources are blocked. To handle this challenge of combining resources in HEH systems, this paper proposes a method for collecting all incoming energies and conveying its summation to the load via the current mirror cells in an approach similar to the maximum power point tracking. This technique is implemented using off‐the‐shelf components. The measurement results show that the proposed method is a realistic approach for supplying electrical energy to wireless sensor nodes and low‐power electronics.
Performance of Vat System in Tanzania Since Enactment of The Vat Act in 2014
Authors: Nguvava Heriel E. , Athanas Noah N.
Published: February 2023

The 2014 Value Added Tax (VAT) reforms focused on reduction of the base alterations and broadening the tax base and also dealt with several legal  drafting issues to enhance the effectiveness of the new VAT law with hopes of enhancing revenue collection. The objective of this article is to assess the  performance of VAT system in Tanzania in terms of tax payer’s registration and collection efficiencies. This study adopted a quantitative paradigm  whereby data were analysed quantitatively through descriptive statistics and ratio analysis for efficiency measurement. Only secondary data were used in  this study. The sources of data were reports from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the World Bank (WB),  IMF and peer-reviewed journal articles on relevant subject matters. The study revealed a total of 4,575 taxpayers who were eligible to be registered for  VAT but who were not captured by the VAT tax system by January 2022. As a result, the government is estimated to have lost about TZS 23,350.09 billion  during that period. Furthermore, it was found that the contribution of VAT to GDP is 3.6 per cent which is below the country’s expectation threshold of 6  per cent annually and is below the East African Community member states’ average of 4.4 per cent. Both the VAT Efficiency and C-efficiency ratios were  not performing well; their averages were 21.9 and 20.7 per cent respectively, below the EAC regional average of 25 per cent. It is recommended to the  government to increase VAT registration threshold and reduce the VAT rate. TRA is urged to decentralize the registration of VAT taxpayers to regions so as  to improve compliance and administrative efficiency. The study further recommends to TRA to audit the 4,575 taxpayers whose turnovers are above  TZS 100 million but are not yet registered and captured within the VAT tax net.
Production of Biolubricants from Balanites aegyptiaca Seed Oil via Epoxidation and Double Transesterification Techniques
Authors: Usman M. , Ibrahim H. , Agbaji E. B.
Published: February 2023

In this study, Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil was extracted from the ground seed using the Soxhlet extraction method with n-hexane as the extraction solvent to produce two biolubricants; one via epoxidation to produce Balanites aegyptiaca Lubricant (BAB-E) and the other via transesterification with trimethylolpropane to produce Balanites aegyptiaca Lubricant (BAB-T). Both biolubricants were characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry. The physicochemical properties, lubricity and thermal properties of the produced biolubricants were determined. Results showed that the biolubricants had wavelengths of 3008.0 cm-1 associated with C-H stretching, 2922.8 cm-1 to -OH (acid), 1740.7 cm-1 to C=O, 1488.8 cm-1 to C=C stretching, 1364.2 cm-1 to NO2, 1237.6 cm-1 to C-O, 1159.2 cm-1 to C-C and 723.1 cm-1 to C-H bending. BAB-T had viscosities of 58.29 and 10.36 cSt at 40 and 100 OC respectively while those of BAB-E were 54.37 and 9.56 cSt. They had viscosity index of 168 and 161, and pour points of -9 and -8 respectively. These values were observed to be within acceptable range. BAB-T had coefficient of friction of 0.094 ± 0.014 while that of BAB-E was 0.080 ± 0.010 respectively. The biolubricants were observed to have thermal stability and showed properties similar to those of lubricants and show remarkable potentials to be used as alternatives to fossil-based lubricants.
Assessment of Ecological Status and Tree Diversity in Watershed Area of Dandi Local Government Area in Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors: Bolaji O. O. , Akanni F. O. , Haastrup N. O. , Asonibare A. O. , Ajao O. I. , Ogundoyin A. A. , George-Onaho J. A.
Published: February 2023

This study assessed the ecological and tree diversity status of watershed area of Dandi local government area in Kebbi state using systematic sampling technique. Three transects of 300 m long were laid at 100 m intervals. On each transect, six sample plots of size 50 m x 50 m (0.25ha) were alternately laid at 50 m intervals. A total of 18 sample plots will be used for the study. Diameters at breast height (Dbh) of all the trees found in the plot with Dbh ≥ 5cm will be measured. Fourteen tree species belonging to 10 genera and 8 families were identified. Borassus aethiopum of the family Arecaceae was the most abundant species in the area with a relative density (RD) and diversity index (DI) of 0.296 and 0.08728 respectively. This was followed by Cocos nucifera in the Arecaceae family also, with RD and DI of 0.192 and 0.03662 respectively. Daniella oliveri of the family Fabaceae was the least represented species with RD and DI of 0.0018 and 0.00002 respectively. The overall tree species richness in the area was 0.0052.
Enriching Information Security via Hybrid of New Expand Rivest Shamir Adleman and Data Encryption Standard Cryptosystem
Authors: Hammawa M. B. , Bisallah H. , Abdulrahman A.
Published: February 2023

Cryptography system gives security services ability to protect information from people who are authorized to use it. This research introduces elevated information security system via hybrid of new expand Rivest Shamir Adleman (RSA) and data encryption standard (DES) cryptosystem using appropriate standard lgorithms. An Expand Algorithm (ERSA) algorithm Key cryptosystem based on nth large prime number system was introduced. Then a hybrid between the Expand Algorithm (ERSA) with Data Encryption Standard (DES) was applied using four randomly selected variables, each generated from large factor of “N” prime numbers. The information undergoes a cypher text-decryption process which provides strong security and uphold high information confidentiality and integrity of data. Results showed that the use of ERSA and DES algorithm reduced the key generation period and its complexity analysis of encryption and decryption are stronger, unlike the application of traditional RSA algorithm.