bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobile Health
Authors: Fadaizadeh Lida , Sanaat Mohammad , Yousefi Ebrahim , Alizadeh Niloofar
Published: August 2023

Background:

The use of mobile phones in the field of medicine is rapidly increasing in developed and developing countries. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the top mobile applications based on superiority from the user's point of view and medical content.

Methods:

Information of each app was recorded in a Google Forms, especially designed for this purpose. The Bazaar App Store, which has two main categories for health: medicine and health and fitness, was used as a source for Persian-language Android applications. The apps of these two domains were installed, and our experts reviewed and rated them in terms of content and technical performance.

Results:

From a total of 3500 applications available in the App Store, 112 apps were selected. Of these, 76.8% were in the field of medicine and 23.2% in the field of health and fitness. The developers of the app consisted of four main groups: (1) nonhealth-care organization, (2) individual app developers, (3) health-care organization, and (4) university or academic research group. The top five major areas of services were: (1) general medical services, (2) addressing medical centers and online appointments, (3) drug information, (4) physical activity and (5) patient follow-up.

Conclusion:

The review of users' scores and comparing it with the scores of specialists showed that although people tend to use telemedicine services, since there is still no formally approved framework for design and scientific content of these applications, most apps operate in the field of general information and services.
Computer-Assisted Multi-Epitopes T-Cell Subunit Covid-19 Vaccine Design
Authors: Yahaya Abdulwahid Abaukaka , Sanusi Salihu , Malo Fatima Umar
Published: August 2023

Background:

The world is currently facing the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Researchers from different parts of the world have employed diverse approaches to create a safe and effective vaccine as it saves millions of lives. Vaccines are created from the viral particle to train the body for a natural defense against invading pathogens. It is important to understand the concept of the vaccine design, especially the multi-epitope T-cells subunit vaccine.

Methods:

In this regard, we employed bioinformatics and immunoinformatic tools to illustrate the concept of the computer-based vaccine design. The computational methods consist of evaluation and selection of SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, prediction of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes, prediction of helper T-cell (HTL) epitope, multi-epitope vaccine candidate construct, antigenicity and allergenicity prediction of the designed candidate vaccine, physiochemical properties and solubility evaluation, secondary/tertiary structure prediction, refinement and validation of model vaccine tertiary structure, molecular docking of fusion proteins and Toll-like receptor 9 protein, and in silico cloning of the vaccine.

Results:

A total of 454 amino acid sequences were generated from CTL and HTL epitopes. The query solubility value (QuerySol) of the vaccine construct was 0.419, including the human β-defensin-2 adjuvant and peptide linkers. A circular clone of vaccine and pEX-C-His plasmid was achieved after in silico ligation using the annealed primer.

Conclusion:

Here, we provide essential information on computer-assisted multi-epitopes T-cell subunit vaccine design.
Evaluation of Mobile Phone-based Tele-monitoring of Cystic Fibrosis Patients during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Fadaizadeh Lida , Hassanzad Maryam , Valinejadi Ali , Taheri Seyed Mohammad Jafar , Farnia Poopak , Hassanzad Nima , Ghaffaripoor Hossein Ali , Baghaei Noushin , Arian Mahdieh , Ansari Masoumeh , Daneshmandi Zahra , Sadati Elham Sadat , Honarpisheh Parisa , Rekabi Mahsa , Mohammadpour Leila , Velayati Ali Akbar
Published: August 2023

Background:

Telemedicine has been used for cystic fibrosis (CF) in a wide range of signs and symptoms even before the COVID 19 pandemic, however, little is known about the health consequences and use of specific health care for cystic CF. This study aimed to evaluate the evolution of clinical trends and data related to mobile based monitoring activities in CF patients at home for 3 years.

Methods:

This is a semi experimental single group study. Forty five CF patients under 7 years' old who were referred to the Masih Daneshvari Hospital between 2018 and 2021 were selected. A mobile phone_based customized Short Message Service (SMS) application used to monitor patients. Remotely monitored variables included the amount and color of sputum, cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath at rest. SPSS using Chi square and Friedman tests.

Results:

The condition of patients based on the number and type of cough increased sputum, decreased appetite, fatty stool, fever and dyspnea, headache, noninvasive ventilation, and drug comfortably remained almost unchanged in the study of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd years, and the studied parameters did not show a significant difference (P > 0.05). Of course, the number of outpatient visits decreased significantly (P value: 0.02). The respiratory rate and arterial oxygen saturation variables were almost the same in three consecutive annual measurements (P values: 0.544 and 0.639, respectively).

Conclusion:

Telemedicine is a method that is useful in the follow up of chronic diseases such as CF and improves the quality of life and reduces the deterioration of lung function; therefore, there is less need for invasive treatments in the long run, and a fundamental change in referral motivation brings to the hospital.
Integrated Proteomic, Transcriptomic, and Genomic Analysis Identifies Fibrinogen Beta and Fibrinogen Gamma as Key Modulators of Breast Cancer Progression and Metastasis
Authors: Patadia Hemantkumar , Priyadarshini Ankita , Gangawane Ajit
Published: August 2023

Background:

As per the WHO, more than 2 million new cases are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 685,000 deaths have been reported in 2020. Incidence of recurrence and metastasis has also risen and poses a challenge for developing new therapies with the identification of newer targets.

Methods:

The objective of this study is to analyze and integrate various data across genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic levels to find promising markers linked with tumor progression and metastasis development in breast cancer. This study begins with the extraction of data of differentially expressed proteins and subsequently analyzes their gene expression changes and genomic alterations to integrate all three omics data. We used curated breast cancer datasets of different proteomic experiments from dbDEPC3.0 and TCGA datasets of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Project to compare gene expressions and genomic alterations. We further used cBioportal, GeneMania, GEPIA2, Reactome, and canSAR computational tools for identifying the most significant genes associated with tumor progression and metastasis.

Results:

Based on false discovery rate, 14 genes were subjected to pathway analysis in Reactome and the top 25 significant pathways were analyzed out of a total of 170 pathways. Our study found fibrinogen gamma (FGG) and fibrinogen beta (FGB) linked to pathways connecting RAS-MAPK, its downstream mutants, integrin signaling, and extracellular matrix remodeling pathways.

Conclusion:

Survival analysis suggested that FGG (P = 0.0065) and FGB (P = 0.013) have a significant positive correlation along with their stage-wise changes in copy number variations and genomic alterations play a pivotal role in controlling tumor progression and metastasis.
Probiotics in Gastroenterology
Authors: Thayumanavan L. , Tarakeswari M. , Muthukumaran K.
Published: August 2023

Probiotic bacteria have become increasingly popular in the last two decades because of expanding scientific evidence pointing to their beneficial effects on human health. Currently it has become an attractive area of research in communicable and non communicable diseases. Their benefits are not only seen in GI diseases which are expected, but also seen in life style diseases like NAFLD and Cancer. This article provides a review of available information and summarizes the recent knowledge on the effects of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics on human health.
Ancillary Techniques and Maneuvers in High Resolution Esophageal Manometry
Authors: Jain Mayank , Srinivas Melpakkam , Jayanthi Venkataraman
Published: August 2023

High-resolution esophageal manometry (HREM) is a technique to determine the function of esophageal musculature and integrity of esophagogastric junction. Conventionally, the HREM study is done in the supine position using ten swallows of 5 ml water each. Apart from this mandatory testing, ancillary testing and maneuvers are undertaken to elicit detailed physiological information. These include multiple rapid swallows, rapid drink tests, testing in the upright position with solid swallows, and pharmacological testing. The present review highlights these techniques and their clinical utility.
Pancreatic Pseudocyst with Candida glabrata Infection
Authors: Premkumar Dinu Abirami , Varghese Joy
Published: August 2023

The incidence of infection in pancreatic pseudocysts is estimated to be about 8.5%, commonly being bacterial. Fungal infection may occur and is usually secondary to intervention. We report here the case of a 51-year-old male with pancreatitis – not previously subjected to endoscopic, radiological, or surgical intervention – who presented with fever and mass and was found to have a pancreatic pseudocyst with Candida glabrata infection.
SARS-CoV-2 and Clinical Urology: There is no Dragon in this Story
Authors: Stamatiou Konstantinos , Magri Vittorio , Perletti Gianpaolo , Trinchieri Alberto
Published: August 2023

Covid-19 disease is caused by the coronavirus of severe acute respiratory syndrome 2. The disease has evolved into a global pandemic that continues to this day. Coronavirus basically causes acute respiratory illness, the symptoms of which may remain milder even three months after the onset of this acute infection. Many patients also experience cardiological, gastrointestinal, and neurological symptoms that last for at least two months. Some patients report worsening of certain urinary symptoms. In this paper, we review the current knowledge about the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and urinary system. A database and a manual search were conducted in the MEDLINE database of the National Library of Medicine, PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and other libraries using the keywords “SARS-CoV-2,” “COVID-19,” and “pandemic,” in various combinations with the terms “kidney,” “bladder” “prostate,” “testicles,” “LUTS,” “pain,” and “infection.” A considerable number of articles investigate the possible interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and the urinary system. In addition, to the well-documented involvement of the kidneys, testicle, and penile involvement seems to be possible. There are also studies investigating the development of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) as a complication of SARS-CoV-2 infection and some studies examining the impact of COVID-19 disease on LUTS. In conclusion, the studies published so far do not provide conclusive evidence about a strong association between SARS-CoV-2 and the genitourinary system. Further investigation is warranted to better understand the nature of COVID-19 disease.
Blunt Injury Abdomen with Complete Vesico-Urethral Transection in a Female Child
Authors: Pogula Vedamurthy Reddy , Galeti Ershad Hussain , Thakare Kashinath , Velivela Venkatesh
Published: August 2023

Traumatic bladder neck distraction injury in children is an uncommon but potentially dangerous occurrence. Straddle injuries produced by a hit to the perineum as a result of striking an outside object with the power of one’s body weight, as well as significant urethral trauma caused by a pelvic fracture, occur in both sexes. Urethral injuries in females are infrequent and are typically associated with pelvic fractures and anterior vaginal wall laceration. We offer a case report of a girl who had a full vesicourethral transection following a traumatic injury to the abdomen, as well as a rupture of the dome of the urinary bladder, and was treated with early urethro-vesical anastomosis and bladder closure. Patient recovered well after surgery, was continent, and had excellent urine flow rates.
A Complication Arising as a Result of a Severe COVID-19 Infection: Prostatic Infarction
Authors: Cakiroglu Basri , Aksoy Suleyman Hilmi
Published: August 2023

A 57-year-old male patient diagnosed with coronavirus disease nearly 2 months ago and started to be treated was admitted to intensive care after 2 weeks due to the deterioration of his general condition. The patient’s general condition improved during 3 weeks of intensive care, and he was moved to the regular unit, and his catheter was removed. Three days after being discharged from the hospital, the patient went to the emergency department due to urethral bleeding and inability to urinate. The patient had urethrorrhagia and globe vesical. A cystofix was inserted as a catheter could not be inserted. Following the urology consultation, it was decided to perform a transurethral resection of the prostate surgery. The prostate was found to be fully infarcted during the operation. Three days after the surgery, his catheter was removed, and the patient urinated spontaneously. He was then discharged. It was understood that prostatic infarctions may arise as a result of COVID-19 infection.
Short-term outcomes of eTEP repair of ventral hernia in university hospital of Nepal
Authors: Mandal Bikash , Kumar Abhijeet , Agrawal Sunit , Sah Suresh , Gupta Rakesh Kumar
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Ventral hernia (primary and incisional) is one of the most frequently encountered problems by the General Surgeon. The enhanced view totally extraperitoneal (eTEP) technique for inguinal hernia was first described by J Daes, which was later used in ventral hernia repair for the first time by Belyansky et al. We applied the same technique for ventral hernia repair to see its feasibility in the context of our country.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

It is a single-center prospective observational study of a patient who underwent eTEP (with or without TAR) by a single surgeon between September 2019 and May 2020 and followed up for 12 months. Patient demographics, hernia characteristics, operative details, perioperative complications, and satisfaction scores using the Likert scale were collected for data analysis.

RESULTS:

The study included 42 patients with 66% of female among them. The mean age was 51 ± 12.97 years, the mean BMI was 29.88 ± 2.16 kg/m2, and the mean ASA of patients was 1.5. Incisional hernia (74%) was the most common diagnosis. The mean operative time was less for the primary hernia (125.45 min) than for the incisional hernia (138.35 min). Intraoperative complications were seen in three (7%) of all the patients. Postoperative length of hospital stay was 1.8 days on average. Postoperative pain was low with only one of the patients having chronic pain while none had a recurrence on follow-up. All the patients were satisfied.

CONCLUSION:

eTEP is a feasible, cheap, and safe alternative MIS option as it has less morbidity and does not carry an extra cost of mesh in comparison to conventional procedures.
The future of robotics in the treatment of abdominal wall hernias: A narrative review
Authors: Huang Estella Y , Chung Daniel , Sandler Bryan J , Jacobsen Garth R , Horgan Santiago , Broderick Ryan C
Published: August 2023

Robotics has transformed the field of surgery, providing a tool that has greatly expanded the treatment of a multitude of surgical diseases. In hernia repair, robotic platforms have provided an alternative option that is superior to conventional laparoscopy in many aspects, including marked improvements in manipulation and visibility. Additionally, it is far more ergonomic for the surgeon. The increasing application of robotics has provided a space for the development of additional platforms and devices to address unmet needs. We review current state of the art and potential future uses and innovations in robotic hernia repair.
Evaluation of light weight large pore mesh versus heavy weight small pore mesh in total extraperitoneal repair of inguinal hernia
Authors: Singh Sarabjit , Rana Kiranjot , Walia Bhupinder S. , Pahuja Vivek , Dugg Pankaj
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

The type of mesh to be used in laparoscopic groin hernia repair has always been debatable whether to use lightweight (LW) or heavyweight (HW) mesh. The study compares the lightweight large pore mesh with HW small pore mesh in total extraperitoneal groin (TEP) hernia repair and its outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A total of 50 patients, who met the inclusion criteria, were randomized in the two groups. In group I (n= 25) LW large pore mesh (pore size 1 mm) was used whereas in group II (n= 25) HW small pore mesh (pore size < 0.65 mm) was used. Outcomes were observed with respect to complications, recurrence, and patient satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed usingχ2test and studentttest.

RESULTS:

Mean age of the patients group I was 45 ± 18.52 while in group II it was 48.88 ± 20.529 years. The complication rates were comparable between the two groups. However, seroma formation was higher in group II. The occurrence of groin pain and foreign body sensation between the two groups was comparable after 6-month follow-up. No recurrence was reported in either of the groups.

CONCLUSION:

Although there was no significant difference between the two groups, but the present study showed some advantage of LW mesh over HW weight mesh in TEP with respect to complications and patient satisfaction.
Outcomes after laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) hernia repair in the emergency
Authors: Olivero Ayelen Andrea , Casas María Agustina , Angeramo Cristian Agustin , Schlottmann Francisco , Sadava Emmanuel Ezequiel
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Laparoscopic repair of groin hernia (LRGH) is widely accepted for elective cases, but its use in emergency cases remains controversial. We aimed to compare postoperative outcomes between elective and emergent transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) repairs.

Materials and Methods:

Patients undergoing emergent LRGH (EM-LR) using a TAPP technique between June 2014 and December 2019 were included for analysis. A case-control cohort of patients undergoing elective LRGH (EL-LR) in the same period was identified and matched (1:3) on gender, age, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, active smoking, and hypertension. Preoperative variables and postoperative outcomes were compared between both groups.

Results:

A total of 15 EM-LR were matched with 45 EL-LR. In patients undergoing EM-LR, the median time from onset of symptoms to surgery was 12 (1–168) h. No differences were found regarding the operative time (EM-LR: 107 min vs. EL-LR: 117 min, P = 0.37) and hernia defect size (EM-LR: 3.6 cm vs. EL-LR: 4.1 cm, P = 0.48). Although small bowel obstruction was observed in all emergent cases, no patients required enterectomy. Emergent cases were performed more frequently by specialist surgeons (EM-LR: 87% vs. EL-LR: 24%, P < 0.001). Mean hospital stay was 3.1 and 0.3 days after EM-LR and EL-LR, respectively (P < 0.001). Overall 30-day morbidity was similar between groups (EM-LR: 6.6% vs. EL-LR: 4.4%, P = 0.43). After a mean follow-up of 28.2 months, no recurrence was observed.

Conclusion:

EM-LR had similar overall morbidity and recurrence rates than elective repairs. Prompted surgical exploration and use of laparoscopy should be encouraged for the management of complicated inguinal hernias.
Robot-assisted laparoscopic repair in hiatal hernia with kyphosis: A case report with meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Qi , Wang Dianchen , Sun Zhao , Jiang Jianwu , Fu Yang
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Hiatal hernia is a high incidence disease, of which, partial patients requiring surgery have gastroesophageal reflux or dysphagia. Although minimally invasive surgery has been widely utilized in recent years, the optimal surgical therapy still remains controversial. In this study, we reported a kyphosis patient undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and launched a meta-analysis aiming to evaluate the advantages of this surgery strategy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Six databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClincialTrials.gov database and Web of Science) were searched from inception to September 20, 2022. All studies describing the patients undergoing robotic hiatal hernia or laparoscopic hiatal hernia were included. And the meta-analysis was performed using R package meta (v6.0.0).

RESULTS:

We reported a 75-year-old female patient of short stature and with severe kyphosis was diagnosed with hiatal hernia and underwent a robotic surgery. For meta-analysis, 1,128 articles were identified in the initial database search, and among them, 6 articles were included in the final analysis. The results showed that robotic surgery had no advantage in operation time and intraoperative complications rate compared with traditional laparoscopic surgery (both P < 0.01). Regardless of the statistical significance, robotic surgery tended to have a lower conversion and postoperative complication rate, as well as the length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS:

Robotics have some advantages in the surgical treatment of hiatal hernia compared with the conventional laparoscopic surgery, the use of which can facilitate the treatment for some challenging cases.
Prospects and challenges of robotic hernia surgery in China: A narrative review
Authors: Li Shaochun , Li Shaojie , Hou Dongsheng , Tang Jianxiong
Published: August 2023

The Da Vinci surgical robotic system has revolutionized the field of robotic surgery and has become one of the most ubiquitous and recognized systems in the robotic surgery era. The rapid rise in China’s economy will provide crucial support for the promotion and application of robotic surgical systems in the country’s surgical field. At present, approximately 1.2 million inguinal hernia repairs are performed annually in China. However, many of these surgeries are performed via traditional open repair or laparoscopy methods. Using the purported benefits of robotic surgery system to benefit hernia patients should become a future direction for Chinese hernia surgeons.
Repair of giant incisional hernias
Authors: Benek Suat , Pedük Şevki , Duran Yasin
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Incisional hernias are one of the most common postoperative complications encountered by surgeons in daily practice. In our study, we compared the component separation technique (CST) with and without synthetic mesh in large incisional hernia surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The files of 79 patients who underwent surgery for giant incisional hernia between January 2016 and November 2020 were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups: CST with mesh reinforcement (mesh+ group) and CST without mesh reinforcement (non-mesh group). The groups were compared in terms of recurrence, complications, and other clinical features.

RESULTS:

There were 36 patients in the mesh+ group and 38 patients in the non-mesh group. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic parameters and clinical features. There was a statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of recurrence rate (P = 0.007, OR = 0.17). In addition, there was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of mean operation times (2.8 h and 1.9 h for mesh+ and non-mesh, respectively) (P = 0.000, 95% CI). Regardless of the use of mesh, recurrence was significantly higher in the presence of high body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.003, 95% CI) and comorbidity (P = 0.031, OR = 3.4).

CONCLUSION:

Repair of giant incisional hernias with mesh-reinforced CST is superior to the non-mesh technique in terms of hernia recurrence. Although CST without mesh reinforcement seems advantageous in terms of complications and operation time, we believe that the mesh-reinforced CST should be applied in suitable patients when the total cost, recurrence, and patient satisfaction are taken into account.
A novel hybrid approach to the repair of flank hernias
Authors: Chou Brendan P. , Bentley Karalyn , LeBlanc Karl A.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Flank hernias are uncommon and challenging to repair. Discussion of flank hernia repair is scarce in the literature. We present a novel approach to repair flank incisional, traumatic, and denervation hernias with a “hybrid” approach using an open repair in conjunction with the robotic platform for laparoscopic intraperitoneal mesh fixation.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on all patients who received a “hybrid” repair from April 2014 through January 2020 by a single surgeon. Patient and hernia characteristics, operative techniques, and outcomes were evaluated. Each patient underwent a similar operation with an intraperitoneal mesh as well as an onlay mesh. Minor technique changes including quilting and wound vac placement were developed and compared.

Results:

Twenty-five patients were included in the study. Outcomes analyzed included wound infection (8.0%), seroma formation (16.0%), hematoma formation (12.0%), mesh infection (0.0%), weight gain (16.0%), hernia recurrence (4.0%), reoperation (12.0%), and chronic pain (25.0%). Compared to the drain placement group, quilting of the subcutaneous tissue was more likely to result in seroma (17.6% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.618) and hematoma (17.6% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.296). Use of negative pressure incisional wound vac did not impact the incidence of wound infection (12.5% vs. 6.2%, P = 0.565), seroma (12.5% vs. 17.6%, P = 0.618), or hematoma formation (12.5% vs. 11.8%, P = 0.704).

Conclusion:

The “hybrid” repair represents a novel approach to flank hernias. Improved visualization of the intraperitoneal portions of the operation using the robotic platform allows for accurate mesh fixation. In experienced hands, this approach provides safe and satisfactory outcomes similar to a purely open repair.
A study to assess the prevalence of dental myths and misconceptions among the rural population of Daman
Authors: Vaghela Nilima , Lajpatrai Ankita , Dixit Arti
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

It is important to know about the myths, especially in India, where general and oral health is embroiled in various myths.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of dental myths regarding oral health among the rural community of Daman.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural area of Daman. A total of 500 individuals were included; data were collected using a pretested and validated 16-term questionnaire, including demographic data and questions regarding dental myths. Data obtained were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics. Chi-square test is the statistical analysis used.

Results:

Almost all the participants believed in one or more dental myths. Majority of the participants, i.e., 80%, believed that oral cancer is not commonly found in older age group. About 92% of the participants felt that there was no necessity to consult a dentist in the absence of pain. Around 59% believed that extraction of the teeth of upper jaw causes loss of vision. There was an equally contradicting notion about bleeding gums while brushing.

Conclusion:

Various dental myths still lurk in the minds of the population; to discourage unhealthy practices, we the health professionals have to provide intensive health education and promote the adoption of healthy practices. It would be prudent to familiarize professionals with these myths and beliefs as they act as barriers to seeking treatment.
Assessment of Bacteriological Profile and Outcome of Empyema Thoracis of Hospitalized Children
Authors: Sadani Sweta , Das Mrinalini
Published: August 2023

Background:

Empyema is often associated with the consequence of infection including pneumonia, tuberculosis, or lung abscess. This study was conducted to assess the clinico-etiological profile and outcomes of empyema thoracis cases.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective hospital-based observational study conducted from July 2019 to June 2020 which included patients of either sex, aged between 2 months to ≤12 years, with empyema thoracis confirmed by radiological evidence of pleural fluid. Clinico-etiological details were collected and presented using appropriate statistics.

Results:

A total of 42 patients were included in the study, of which 35.7% were aged between 4 and 7.99 years and 27 patients (64.3%) were male. Twenty (47.6%) patients had a history of cough for 7–14 days while eight had cough for >14 days; however, a total of 29 (87.9%) patients had breathing difficulty for ≤7 days. Chest pain was observed in 16.7% of patients. Chest X-ray showed that right side pleural effusion was more commonly affected than the left pleural effusion (69.0% vs. 31.0%). The most common micro-organism pleural fluid culture was Staphylococcus aureus (n = 8; 20.5%). The majority of patients with empyema thoracis had elevated levels of leukocytes (>11,000 cumm) and CRP levels (>10 mg/dL) [92.9% and 97.6%, respectively].

Conclusion:

The present study showed that most of the children presented at the age of 4–7.99 years with a male predominance. S. aureus was the major organism associated with pediatric empyema in this region.
Mouth Breathing During Sleep and Persistence of OSA after Adeno-Tonsillectomy in Non-Obese Children
Authors: Fung Brigitte Kim-yook , Lau Mei-yee , Leung Shuk-yu , Wong Rebecca Suk-yin , Kwok Ka-li , Ng Daniel Kwok-keung
Published: August 2023

Objective:

To evaluate the relationship between the percentage of total sleep time with mouth breathing (SMBP) and post-adeno-tonsillectomy apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) in non-obese children.

Materials and Methods:

Non-obese obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) children with pre- and post- TandA PSG done between August 2011 and February 2019 were reviewed and mouth breathing during sleep was manually scored. Percentage of total sleep time with mouth breathing (SMBP) was calculated. Its correlation with post-operative AHI >1.5/h was studied.

Results:

Fifty-nine children were included in the analysis and 47 of the study group (79.7%) were male. The mean age at pre-operative PSG was 9.2+/-3.1 years. The mean AHI dropped from 8.3+/-19.8 to 4.1+/-11.6 (P < 0.001). Thirty-one (50.8%) were cured of OSA defined as AHI<=1.5/h. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between post-operative log-transformed AHI and log-transformed SMBP (r=0.265, P = 0.044). The optimal SMBP for detecting residual OSA was 10.5%. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and Youden Index were 0.86, 0.37, 0.57, 0.73 and 0.23, respectively. Post-operative children with SMBP >10.5% had higher risk for residual OSA (OR 4.2, 95%CI: 1.2–15.0, P = 0.029).

Conclusion:

Obstructive sleep apnea children with mouth breathing for more than 10.5% of total sleep time are more likely to have residual OSA after TandA.
Improved BAT Algorithm Using Density-Based Clustering
Authors: Al-Asadi Samraa , Al-Mamory Safaa
Published: August 2023

BAT algorithm is a nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm that depends on the principle of the echolocation behavior of bats. However, the algorithm suffers from being stuck in the local optima early due to its poor exploration. An improved BAT algorithm based on the density-based clustering technique is proposed to enhance the algorithm’s performance.

In this paper, the initial population is improved by generating two populations, randomly and depending on the clusters’ center information, and by getting the fittest individuals from these two populations, the initial improved one is generated. The random walk function is improved using chaotic maps instead of the fixed-size movement, and so the local search is improved as well as the global search abilities by diversifying the solutions. Another improvement is to deal with stagnation by partitioning the search space into two parts depending on the generated clusters’ information to obtain the newly generated solution and comparing their quality with the previously generated solution and choosing the best.

The performance of the proposed improved BAT algorithm is evaluated by comparing it with the original BAT algorithm over ten benchmark optimization test functions. Depending on the results, the improved BAT outperforms the original BAT by obtaining the optimal global solutions for most of the benchmark test functions.
Breast cancer metastasizing to the upper gastrointestinal tract (the esophagus and the stomach): A comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Da Cunha Teresa , Restrepo David , Abi-Saleh Simon , Dharan Murali
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.
Physcion increases the sensitivity of hepatocellular carcinoma to sorafenib through miRNA-370/PIM1 axis-regulated glycolysis
Authors: Pan Xiao-Ping , Jiya Bu-Ren , Wang Feng , Lan Zhu
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.
Expression patterns of cluster of differentiation 147 impact the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xu Yun-Ji , He Hong-Jie , Wu Peng , Li Wen-Bing
Published: August 2023

Colitis-associated colorectal cancer (CAC) is defined as a specific cluster of colorectal cancers that develop as a result of prolonged colitis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Patients with IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, are known to have an increased risk of developing CAC. Although the incidence of CAC has significantly decreased over the past few decades, individuals with CAC have increased mortality compared to individuals with sporadic colorectal cancer, and the incidence of CAC increases with duration. Chronic inflammation is generally recognized as a major contributor to the pathogenesis of CAC. CAC has been shown to progress from colitis to dysplasia and finally to carcinoma. Accumulating evidence suggests that multiple immune-mediated pathways, DNA damage pathways, and pathogens are involved in the pathogenesis of CAC. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing effort to develop clinical approaches that could help improve outcomes for CAC patients. Colonoscopic surveillance plays an important role in reducing the risk of advanced and interval cancers. It is generally recommended that CAC patients undergo endoscopic removal or colectomy. This review summarizes the current understanding of CAC, particularly its epidemiology, mechanisms, and management. It focuses on the mechanisms that contribute to the development of CAC, covering advances in genomics, immunology, and the microbiome; presents evidence for management strategies, including endoscopy and colectomy; and discusses new strategies to interfere with the process and development of CAC. These scientific findings will pave the way for the management of CAC in the near future.
Balancing the Scales: an Investigation of Work-Life Balance Among Women in a South African Information and Communications Telecommunications Organization
Authors: Munyeka Wiza , Maharaj Ashika
Published: August 2023

Purpose – The study’s purpose was to determine the extent to which female information and communications technology professionals are aware of work-life balance policies. Aim - The objective was to assess employee understanding of work-life poli-cies in effect at their place of employment. Methodology – To analyze female employees’ experiences with work-life balance and their awareness of work-life balance policies in their organiza-tion, data from female information and communications technology profes-sionals (n=50) were collected using a quantitative technique and cross-sectional survey design. The study used inferential statistics like Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Pearson’s product-moment correlation, and T-tests as well as descriptive statistics like Measure of Central Tendency and Dispersion to analyze the data. Findings - According to the study, the majority of employees were aware that their organization had a separate work-life balance policy. Limitations of the study – Only one organization was used to test the idea of work-life balance. There were just 50 available responses, making the sample size for the questionnaire small. Practical implications – The study calls for a re-examination of work-life bal-ance policies and practices, specifically Border Theory, in order to ensure that work-life balance can enhance productivity without inadvertently resulting in poor work-life balance. To better comprehend the management of the compa-ny, the personnel should take the time to enquire about the policies and other procedures that interest them. To inform the staff of the organization’s rules and various regulations, management must also communicate with and edu-cate them. Originality/value – Further research is needed to fully explore the topic of work-life balance in information and communications technology. Such em-pirical studies have never been conducted in the South African environment. As a result, it can be said that there is a considerable level of originality in this paper. By helping lawmakers understand how women perceive work-life balance practices, the current research has the potential to help create better job design policies.
Innovación en los procesos pedagógicos de las Entidades Educativas en la ciudad de Riohacha Departamento de La Guajira
Authors: Sierra Llorente José Gregorio , Romero Mora Boris Sandy , Genes Díaz Jaider José
Published: August 2023

A nivel mundial los países han desarrollado en la búsqueda de obtener un nivel educativo más avanzado, que les garantice tener un conocimiento competitivo del entorno escolar, el cual permite realizar una incorporación de la innovación en los procesos pedagógicos como una estrategia que está dedicada a impulsar herramientas adecuadas que faciliten el crecimiento de sus docentes. El propósito de este artículo, es realizar un plan de capacitaciones y cursos que incorporen las herramientas TIC, que están estipulados en desarrollar y mejorar el conocimiento de los docentes en las instituciones educativas de la ciudad de Riohacha, teniendo como sustento teórico a los autores: Mayorga (2019), Ramírez (2020), Ríos y Ruiz (2020), entre otros. Es un estudio de tipo descriptivo, con metodología cuantitativa, con diseño no experimental y de campo, se utilizó la técnica de la encuesta personal. Los resultados de esta investigación, se enmarca dentro del plan de capacitaciones para el crecimiento del nivel competitivo de los docentes por medio de la vinculación y manejo de las TIC. Logrando impactar en la vinculación de las herramientas innovadoras para el desarrollo educativo y el mejoramiento de la calidad, teniendo un nivel didáctico, pedagógico, investigativo y uso educativo de las TIC.
Performa Usaha Ternak Sapi Potong di Distrik Masni Kabupaten Manokwari
Authors: Apasedanya Barakhiel W. , Wajo Muhammad Jen , Warsono Irba U.
Published: August 2023

Abstract 
This study aims to determine the business performance of beef cattle farmers in terms of livestock production and productivity and the income of farmers from beef cattle business. The research was conducted descriptively with survey techniques through interviews and field observations. Primary data was taken by conducting interviews with farmers or those who run beef cattle business, extension workers, and stakeholders in the field of animal husbandry. The observed variables included maintenance, housing, feeding, reproductive system and BCS as well as cattle farming business analysis. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively to determine the important values (means, maximum value, minimum value and standard deviation) and presented in tabular form. The t-test was carried out to determine conclusively the existence of the change phenomenon at the beginning of raising and now (late). The results of the study show that the performance of beef cattle business in Masni District has enormous potential as indicated by an efficient livestock production system, a high reproduction system and a profitable livestock business analysis value. The results of the t test show that there is a significant increase for the population and also the price with a B/C Ratio value was 1.9.
Keywords: Business analysis; Cattle; Livestock production; Reproductive efficiency
 
Abstrak 
Penelitian bertujuan mengetahui performa usaha peternak sapi potong dari segi produksi dan hasil pendapatan peternak dari usaha sapi potong. Penelitian dilakukan secara deskriptif dengan teknik survei melalui wawancara dan observasi lapangan. Data primer diambil dengan melakukan wawancara terhadap peternak atau yang menjalankan usaha ternak sapi potong, penyuluh, dan stake holder dibidang peternakan. Varibabel yang diamati meliputi pemeliharaan, perkandangan, pemberian pakan, sitem reproduksi, BCS (Body Condition Score) serta analisis usaha peternakan sapi. Data yang diperoleh dianalisis secara deskriptif untuk mengetahui nilai-nilai penting (means, nilai maksimum, nilai minimum dan standar deviasi) serta disajikan dalam bentuk tabel. Uji t dilakuan untuk mengetahui secara meyakinkan keberadaan fenomena perubahan saat awal beternak dan saat ini (akhir). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa performa usaha ternak sapi potong di Distrik Masni Kab. Manokwari memiliki potensi yang sangat besar. Hal ini ditunjukkan oleh sistem produksi ternak yang efisien, indeks reproduksi yang tinggi dan nilai analisa usaha ternak yang menguntungkan. Hasil Uji t menunjukkan bahwa ada peningkatan yang signifikan untuk populasi dan harga dengan nilai B/C Ratio adalah 1.9.
Kata kunci: Analisa usaha; BCS; Efisiensi reproduksi; Performa usaha; Produksi ternak
Kadar BUN, Kreatinin, dan Morfologi Eritrosit pada Kura – Kura Sulcata (Geochelone sulcata) yang Terkena Bladder Stone
Authors: Djazuli Palestin , Restijono Era H. M. , Yunani Retina , Wardhani Hana C. P.
Published: August 2023

Abstract 
This study aims to determine the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and uric acid in sulcata turtles (Geochelone sulcata) affected by bladder stone. Sulcata turtles are one type of land turtle that are easily affected by bladder stones. Bladder stones that form in tortoises are composed of uric acid and minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium. Formation of bladder stone in the urinary bladder of sulcata turtles can cause high levels of urea, creatinine, and erythrocyte morphology examination with whole blood samples taken from the jugular vein.
Keywords: Bladder stone; Creatinin; Sulcata; Urea; Uric acid
 
Abstrak 
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kadar blood urea nitrogen (BUN), kreatinin, dan asam urat pada kura – kura sulcata (Geochelone sulcata) yang terkena bladder stone. Kura – kura sulcata merupakan salah satu jenis kura – kura darat yang mudah sekali terkena bladder stone. Bladder stone yang terbentuk pada kura – kura darat merupakan susunan dari asam urat dan mineral seperti sodium, potassium dan kalsium. Terbentuknya bladder stone pada vesica urinaria kura – kura sulcata dapat menyebabkan tingginya kadar urea, kreatinin, dan pemeriksaan morfologi eritrosit dengan sampel whole blood yang diambil dari vena jugularis.
Kata kunci: Asam urat; Bladder stone; Kreatinin; Sulcata; Urea