bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensors in the Oceans, Pollutant Identifications, and Controversies
Authors: Biswas Sanchari
Published: May 2024

Oceans are the largest means of survival for millions of people and also the source of many life forms. Human activities have made the environmental conditions in marine habitats more dire for the last fifty years. The discharge of agricultural nutrients, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants (plastics, pesticides) threaten the coastal zones. Chemical compounds containing one or more radioisotope atoms are known as radiotracers, which are particularly useful for identifying and analysing pollutants as they can readily identify trace amounts of a particular radioisotope and short-lived isotope decays. It is thus important to identify such sources of contaminants by quantifying essential pollutants separately and gathering dependable information regarding their origin, movement, and ultimate destination. Nuclear and isotope techniques help in gathering such data. This book chapter gives an overview of the modern techniques available for probing the various contaminants across marine ecosystems and several drawbacks and controversies associated with the same.
Environmental Sensors
Authors: Jose Deepa V.
Published: May 2024

This chapter focuses on the applications of environmental sensors in general and their role in identifying and addressing the issues related to the improper disposal of sanitary pads, which is a growing concern. It also gives an overview of the pollutants associated with it, and the role that environmental sensors can play in mitigating this problem. By harnessing the power of advanced sensing technologies, we can gain a better understanding of the environmental impact of sanitary pad disposal and work towards sustainable solutions. This chapter aims to provide valuable insights and guidance for researchers and practitioners working to create a cleaner and healthier environment and generate self-awareness for individuals in safeguarding ecosystem.
Environmental Sensors in Extreme Environments
Authors: Verma Aashish , Verma Sonam
Published: May 2024

Many potentially harmful chemicals, released by industries and human activities, can contaminate water, soil, or air, and further impact the environment and public health. Real-time and in situ monitoring of various contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, pathogens, toxins, particulate matters, radioisotopes, volatile organic compounds, crude oil, and agricultural chemicals at low levels is mandatory in the fields of industrial plants, automotive technologies, medicine and health, water and air quality control, natural soil/land/sea, and so forth. Consequently, the monitoring of environmental pollutants became a priority. For this aim, sensors have captivated the attention of many scientists in modern times by virtue of their eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, miniaturization ability, and rapidness. Environmental samples, however, are very complex and unexpectedly relative to other ecosystems. Thus far, environmental sensors have been developed with greater sensitivity, simpler and more efficient detection, better environmental adaptation and etc. for pollutant detection.
Real-Time Fault Detection and Condition Monitoring for Industrial Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: M. Thirusudhan , S. Sasikumar
Published: May 2024

Real-time status monitoring and early defect diagnosis are becoming more and more necessary for modern industrial systems. Developing intelligent remote diagnostic technologies and integrating on-board and off-board diagnosis are two more unresolved research projects in the automotive industry. The automated transfer vehicle (ATV) equipment condition monitoring example in this chapter is part of a smart industrial use case. The suggested method successfully permits ATV fault scenarios to be seen in real time by expanding to a fleet of devices in an actual production plant. The application of a statistical threshold is the initial stage in creating a high-performance detection model for defect detection on stacked long short-term memory networks. For better computation speed, a second model trimming approach based on principal component analysis is suggested. The improved fault detection technique is ultimately applied by the airborne embedded computer platform with field-programmable gate arrays.
Artificial Intelligence in Robotics
Authors: T. Preethiya , Subbiah Priyanga , T. Pandiarajan , Ojo Stephen , S. Vijayalakshmi
Published: May 2024

The advent of artificial intelligence (AI) has had a profound impact on the realm of robotics, fundamentally altering the capabilities of self-governing devices. This abstract examines the significant influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on the field of robotics, emphasizing notable progress and practical implementations. Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered robots demonstrate improved capabilities in perception, decision-making, and adaptability, which allows them to thrive in a wide range of jobs across several domains such as industry, healthcare, space exploration, and autonomous vehicles. Machine learning methodologies, such as deep learning and reinforcement learning, enable robots to acquire aptitudes, enhance their performance, and engage in intelligent interactions with their surroundings. The ethical considerations, safety measures, and societal repercussions pertaining to AI-driven robots are also examined and analyzed.
Synergistic Swarm
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet
Published: May 2024

The “synergistic swarm” investigates the incorporation of multi-robot systems in healthcare, introducing a fundamental change in patient care and medical operations. This abstract emphasises the collaborative synergy achieved by intelligently coordinating several robotic entities, resulting in improved efficiency, precision, and adaptability in healthcare environments. By utilising cutting-edge technology like artificial intelligence, robotics, and sensor networks, the system seeks to enhance many functions, including diagnostics and patient support, to their maximum efficiency. This chapter highlights the significant potential of combining different approaches to healthcare in order to improve the delivery of medical services. This could lead to more effective, patient-focused, and adaptable healthcare robotics in the changing healthcare industry.
Opportunities in air retrieval of the critically ill in the background of economics and geopolitics of Sri Lanka
Authors: Bandara K. , Alwis S.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): a review of its status and practice
Authors: Firmin Richard K.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available.
Patterns of perioperative arrhythmias in adult cardiac surgery: A single center study from Sri Lanka
Authors: Harischandra D.V.T. , Jayaweera J.M.R.G. , Kannangoda K.A.N.S. , Dilanka G.V.A. , Hettigoda K.B.P. , Amarasinghe S. , Firmin R.K.
Published: May 2024

Introduction: There is no published data on perioperative arrhythmias in adults undergoing cardiac surgery in Sri Lanka. The object of this study was to assess the patterns of peri operative arrhythmias in cardiac surgical patients.
Methods and material: This is a prospective descriptive study of 100 patients in a single cardiothoracic unit in a tertiary care hospital in Sri Lanka from November 2018 to May 2020. Demographic data and clinical data were assessed in all patients. Furthermore, 24-hour Mobile Cardiac Outpatient Telemetry MCOT was assessed in a subset of patients.
Results: There were 72 males and 28 females. The mean age was 60 (range 37-76 years). The majority (76) had undergone isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The mortality was 3.5% in routine and 15% in urgent and emergency operations.
Arrhythmias where lowest preoperatively (11%). Arterial fibrillation (AF) (6%) and sinus bradycardia (4%) were the commonest arrhythmias seen preoperatively. Arrhythmias were higher during surgery (29%) and ventricular fibrillation (VF) (25%) was the commonest. Arrhythmias were highest post operatively (34%) and (AF) (12%) was the commonest followed by sinus tachycardia (9%). The higher incidence of arrhythmias in the in-hospital postoperative period as compared to the preoperative period was significant (p=0.0001).
A limited in-depth study using a mobile cardiac telemetry (MCOT) device showed a higher incidence of AF preoperatively (11%) and postoperatively (16%) but these differences were not significant when compared with that of routine investigations (p=0.18 and p=0.35 respectively). However, the MCOT detected some arrhythmias completely missed by routine ECG recordings, notably supraventricular tachycardia, both preoperatively (22%) and postoperatively (33%).
Conclusions: This study has established baseline values of perioperative arrhythmias in the adult cardiac surgical patients in Sri Lanka. The MCOT methodology shows the potential for a more detailed study of arrhythmias and could inform decision-making in arrhythmia prophylaxis.
Impact of Gender on the Academic Performance of Sri Lankan Undergraduates: a systematic review
Authors: Jayathilake Chamishka , Samarasekere Pradeep , Rupasinghe Thilini
Published: May 2024

Studying and comprehending factors influencing academic performance is crucial for gaining valuable insights into the success of undergraduates. In this systematic review, the correlation between gender and undergraduate academic performance across various fields of studies in Sri Lankan universities was comprehensively studied. The data from multiple studies conducted between 2008 and 2022 in different disciplines, including Science, Management, Medicine, Agriculture, and Information Technology, was analyzed systematically. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method research published in English exploring the impact of gender on academic performance were studied. The review involved 16 research studies comprising 35,608 individuals from several state universities. The data analysis showed a complex picture of gender inequalities in academic performance, with several significant trends and consequences emerging. A consistent pattern emerged, with 75% of the studies demonstrating that female students excel academically across various disciplines, while the rest exhibited no gender differences in performance. These findings underscore the critical need to promote gender equity and eliminate gender-based gaps in Sri Lankan higher education. Conducting in-depth studies across all degree programs and universities in Sri Lanka is recommended to gain a more comprehensive understanding and investigate the relationship between gender and academic performance.
A Systematic Review on the Hemolytic Effect of Bisphenol-A on Human Erythrocytes (In-vitro)
Authors: Kodithuwakku K.H.P.P. , Rajapaksa G.
Published: May 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a high-production volume industrial chemical, and human exposure to BPA is essentially ubiquitous with the increased use of BPA-associated products. Though the ubiquitous nature of BPA exposure has resulted in circulating levels of BPA, as reported in numerous biomonitoring studies, a limited number of studies have been carried out to investigate the impact of BPA on human red blood cells. Yet the findings remain ambiguous. Thus, this study aimed to systematically review the published literature on the hemolytic activity of BPA on human erythrocytes. A systematic review of published literature was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) approach. A comprehensive search of the literature was undertaken using Google Scholar, PubMed and Research Gate for studies published from 2015 to September 2023. The keywords "human erythrocytes", "Bisphenol-A", "in vitro", and "hemolysis" were included in the search. The search identified a total of 933 articles (PubMed = 3, research gate=99, and Google Scholar = 831). After following the exclusion and inclusion criteria, four full papers were entitled to review. In these four studies, they have incubated isolated human red blood cells with varying concentrations for different durations. BPA showed a dose-dependent and time-dependent hemolytic activity in-vitro on human erythrocytes. Reasons for BPA-induced hemolysis in erythrocytes involve the generation of reactive oxygen species. As there are contradictory observations, meta-analysis is recommended. However, no comprehensive investigations have been carried out to evaluate the impact of BPA on human red blood cells under physiological concentrations so far. Consequently, it is recommended that further research in this area be undertaken to provide a more robust understanding of the physiological implications of BPA exposure on red blood cell function.
Quality of Life Evaluation after Partial Penile Amputation for Penile Cancer
Authors: Chaubey Ashish , Tiwari Supriya , Suryavanshi Parijat , Jain Vinod
Published: May 2024

Background:

Penile cancer is most prevalent in developing countries. Both the physiological and psychological consequences for the patient are critical. These consequences result from both the cancer diagnosis and the treatment’s effects.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) of patients who have undergone partial penile amputation in terms of general well-being, sexual function, and urinary function.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective observational study included 32 patients who underwent partial penile amputation. The european organisation for research and treatment of cancer core quality of life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ C-30) questionnaire was completed postoperatively. Erectile function and satisfaction were assessed retrospectively after partial penile amputation using the International Index of Erectile Function-15.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 54.03 ± 16.02 years. The mean scores for erectile function, orgasm, sexual desire, satisfaction, and overall satisfaction were 16.28 ± 10.83, 7.50 ± 3.30, 5.72 ± 3.35, 8.84 ± 4.77, and 9.12 ± 0.83 preoperatively, and 14.03 ± 8.61, 6.88 ± 2.97, 5.72 ± 3.35, 7.94 ± 4.09, and 7.81 ± 1.00 postoperatively. Mean erectile function, orgasm, satisfaction, and overall satisfaction were significantly decreased postoperatively compared with preoperatively. Erectile function and overall satisfaction improved more in younger years from the preoperative to the postoperative period, whereas they improved less in older years.

Conclusion:

Although partial penile amputation for penile cancer provides adequate local disease management, appropriate counseling is crucial, especially when the QoL concerns general well-being, sexual function, and urinary function.
Assessment of Adverse Drug Reactions Identified in the Outpatient Department of Psychiatry
Authors: Dsouza Joyceline , Joel Juno Jerold , Bhat Shrinivasa Undaru , Deepak C. G.
Published: May 2024

Context:

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are “any response to a drug which is noxious and unintended, and which occurs at doses normally used in man for prophylaxis, diagnosis, or disease therapy.” Antipsychotics used for treating mental illnesses are highly vulnerable to ADRs due to the need for lifelong therapy. Early detection and regular monitoring of ADRs can minimize complications and improve patient’s quality of life.

Aims:

The study aims to identify ADRs in patients with psychiatric disorders and determine the cause of ADRs.

Settings and Design:

A prospective cross-sectional study conducted in the outpatient department of psychiatry at a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

Patients were approached to identify ADRs at the psychiatry outpatient department. Informed consent was obtained from the participants before enrollment. Data collected from patients were documented in the patient data collection forms and suspected ADR reporting forms have been used to record ADRs.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Among 190 recruited, 60 ADRs were reported from 39 outpatients. A significant multiple psychotropic drug usage was found in the patients (P ≤ 0.005). Both the genders showed an equal propensity toward ADRs. The antipsychotic drug sodium valproate held responsible for most of the ADRs. Tremor an extrapyramidal side effect was the most common adverse effect identified. Most of the patients required dose alteration to manage their symptoms.

Conclusions:

Regular observation is necessary for psychiatry patients to ensure safety and compliance with the therapy. Spontaneous reporting and regular monitoring are necessary to avoid ADR occurrence and its severity.
Attitudes and Perception of Nursing Students towards Suicide: An Exploratory Survey
Authors: Lodha Pragya , De Sousa Avinash , Appasani Raghu , Karia Sagar , Shah Nilesh
Published: May 2024

Background:

Patients with suicide attempts usually present to the emergency department of hospitals, and the attitude of nursing staff and medical personnel plays a major role in their recovery. There is a negative perception and stigma associated with suicide among the public and hospital staff. This study aimed to assess the attitudes and perceptions toward suicide and suicide attempters among 2nd and 3rd year nursing students at a government hospital in Mumbai, India.

Methodology:

One hundred and eighty-eight nursing students studying in the 2nd and 3rd year of their courses were administered the suicide stigma scale, attitudes to suicide prevention scale and the exposure to suicidal behavior scale. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

Sixty-eight (36%) of respondents agreed that those who attempt/commit suicide/take their life (lose their life to suicide) are pathetic while 35% believed that these persons were shallow and 44% of nursing students reported them to be immoral. Seventy six (40%) agreed that if someone is serious about committing suicide, they do not tell anyone about it. Eighty-nine (47%) of the respondents knew someone who made a suicide attempt and 108 (57%) of the students knew someone who had attempted suicide. Majority of the sample found seeking help from mental health professionals to be useful, important, and empowering.

Conclusion:

Further studies are needed to generalize the findings of this survey and to determine the methods of incorporating suicide assessment and management as an integral part of the nursing curriculum.
Primary intracardiac germ cell tumor
Authors: Chawla Siddhi
Published: May 2024

We present the echocardiography images in a 6 year old girl who presented with a history of scalp swelling after trivial trauma which was subsequently diagnosed as metastases from primary intracardiac germ cell tumour.
A neonate with a spongy failing heart – What could it be?
Authors: Archana Arumugom , Natarajan Chandra Kumar , Kumar Vaanathi Hementha , Subramaniyam Gnanasambandam , Ramachandran Bala , Balakrishnan Komarakshi , Suresh Rao KG , Berwal Abhishek , Nandyala Vishwanath , Iyer Swati
Published: May 2024

A neonate born of third-degree consanguineous marriage presented on day 12 of life with congestive cardiac failure. A male sibling died at 3 months of age, cause of which was not known. He was treated with decongestive measures and multiple inotropes. 2D Echocardiogram revealed severe Left ventricular dysfunction with prominent trabeculations and deep recesses in the left ventricle suggestive of Left ventricular non-compaction. He was also found to have horse-shoe kidney. Considering the presence of cardiac left ventricular non compaction, horse-shoe kidney and family history of neonatal death and pregnancy loss clinical exome sequencing was done. It detected a homozygous missense variant in exon 6 of the AGK gene suggestive of Senger’s syndrome. Baby was on regular follow-up and was thriving well on diuretics, sacubitril-valsartan and weekly levosimendan infusions. At 8 months of age, cardiac transplantation was successfully done and baby has been doing well post-transplantation. LVNC in children is rare with an estimated incidence of 0.11 per 100,000, the highest incidence being during infancy. Senger’s syndrome is autosomal recessive in inheritance. Senger’s syndrome associated with Left ventricular non compaction has been reported only once in literature so far. Renal manifestations in the form of horse shoe kidney like in our index baby has not been reported previously with Senger’s syndrome.
Comparison of efficacy of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, 0.2% chitosan nanoparticles, and QMIX2in1 in smear layer removal at apical third of root canal, using endovac system irrigation system – An in vitro scanning electron microscope study
Authors: Karuppiah Gokulapriyan , Ahamed A Shafie , Sreekrishnapillai Bhavani , Rajaraman G , Ravishankar Pavithra , Chittrarasu M , Sherwood Anand
Published: May 2024

Aims:

To compare the smear layer removal efficacy of 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), 0.2% Chitosan nanoparticles, and QMIX 2 in 1 at apical third of root canal system, using Endovac system (Kerr, Switzerland) irrigation system and analyzed with the scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Materials and Methods:

Forty-five extracted mandibular single-rooted premolar noncarious human teeth were selected. The samples were randomly divided into three groups: Group 1: Irrigated with 1 ml of 17% EDTA, Group 2: With 0.2% Chitosan nanoparticles, and Group 3: With QMix2in1 (Dentsply Sirona, USA); 15 teeth in each group as final irrigant. The root canals were sequentially cleaned and shaped till 0.30 mm/0.09 taper and were irrigated with 1 ml of 5% sodium hypochlorite and 1 ml of 0.9% saline, after introducing each file into the canal. Endovac system (Kerr, Switzerland) system was used as delivering unit for all irrigation solutions with separate syringes. The tooth samples were sectioned and analyzed under SEM. The data obtained were analyzed using the Chi–square test.

Results:

All three irrigation solution in Group 1, Group 2, and Group 3 removed smear layer. Group 3 showed a significant difference in smear layer removal from the root canal system than Group 1 and Group 2.

Conclusions:

The final irrigation with QMix2in1 (Dentsply Sirona, USA) solution aids in better smear layer removal at the apical third of the root canal system, using Endovac system (Kerr, Switzerland) irrigation system.
Evaluation of irrigant flow in the root canal isthmus region using a computational fluid dynamics model
Authors: Thomas Anchu Rachel , Sihivahanan Dhanasekaran , Sivarajan Ranjith Kumar
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the irrigation dynamics of irrigant delivery systems and irrigating solutions in the root canal isthmus region of a mandibular premolar using computational fluid dynamics (CFD).

Methods:

A CFD model of the mandibular premolar with the root canal isthmus was created using scanned microcomputed tomography images. Using this CFD model, the irrigant flow in the root canal isthmus region was visualized. The irrigation dynamics of three irrigant delivery systems – Group 1: syringe irrigation (open-ended), Group 2: EndoVac irrigation system, and Group 3: modified EndoVac system were studied and compared to assess the efficiency. Following which, the wall shear stress, streamline of irrigant in the isthmus region, and irrigant velocity were evaluated.

Results:

Group 1 (open-ended needle) presented with the highest wall shear stress as compared to other groups, restricted to the apical third. All groups exhibited maximum velocity at the region of irrigant exit followed by a gradual decline in the isthmus and coronal region. It was observed that only Group III (Modified EndoVac) displayed a flow of irrigant in the isthmus region.

Conclusions:

The modified EndoVac system was efficient in delivering the irrigating solutions to the isthmus region.
Comparative evaluation of efficacy of XP Endo Finisher, sonic, and ultrasonic irrigation in removal of calcium hydroxide and subsequent adaptation of gutta percha in simulated internal resorption cavity - An in vitro study
Authors: Taneja Sonali , Kumar Pragya , Dheer Akriti
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The study aims to comparatively evaluate various irrigating techniques in removing calcium hydroxide (CH, aqueous/silicon oil based) from simulated internal resorptive cavity and subsequent adaptability of thermoplasticized gutta percha (GP) to root canal walls.

Methods:

One hundred and sixty extracted human mandibular second premolars with single root were chemomechanically prepared to a size F3 (size 30, 6% taper). Standardized internal root resorption cavities were prepared, and samples were randomly divided into two main groups (n = 80) according to type of CH medicament used: Group I - silicon oil based (Metapex) and Group II - aqueous based (RC Cal) and four subgroups (n = 20) according to the technique used for removal of CH: Subgroup A - passive ultrasonic irrigation, Subgroup B - XP Endo Finisher (XP), Subgroup C - sonic irrigation, Subgroup D - conventional syringe irrigation. Half of the samples were evaluated for the quantity of remaining CH and the remaining half were evaluated for the adaptability of thermoplasticized GP under a stereomicroscope. The statistical analysis of the obtained scores was done using a nonparametric test, Kruskal–Wallis test, followed by Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

XP showed maximum removal of CH and adaptation of GP in both the groups. Adaptability of GP to the dentinal wall was better in Group II than in Group I.

Conclusions:

Complete removal of CH (both formulations) was not possible with either of the experimental irrigation techniques from simulated internal root resorptive defects.
Assessment of risk factors for domestic accidents among rural children, Alqalioubiya Governorate, Egypt
Authors: Abdelsalam Taysser N. , Habib Nagat S. , Shenouda Mona S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Domestic accidents among children are increasingly being seen as a community health problem; much of this increase is occurring in developing countries and could be prevented through increased awareness, safe practices, and improvements in the home environment. Preschool children are extremely vulnerable to domestic accidents. Domestic accidents remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among children worldwide.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the risk factors for domestic accidents among rural children at Alqalioubiya Governorate, Egypt.

Participants and methods

A descriptive research design was utilized. Sample: a purposive sample of 225 homes having children younger than 5 years old was included in the study. Setting: the study was carried out in homes of Bakira Village. It is a rural area in the middle north of Alqalioubiya Governorate, with an estimated population of 6190 individuals. Tools: two tools were used. The first tool was a questionnaire on background characteristics; it included the following parts: part A − the demographic characteristics of parents and children and part B − domestic accidents involving children. The second tool was :home observation using a checklist of environmental risk factors.

Results

The current study reveals that the age of the mothers was mean±SD=31.95±6.4; 44.4% of the mothers had completed secondary education. Furthermore,42.2% of children were between 25 and 48 months of age. The occurrence of domestic accidents among children was 69.3%. There was a highly statistically significant difference between occurrences of domestic accidents among children, working status of mothers, children’s age in months, and the total mean score of home observation.

Conclusion

The study concluded that 54.2% of moderate-risk factors were present in general indoor areas, while 68.4% of high-risk factors were present in bathrooms. 69.3% of children were involved in domestic accidents and only 2.2% of the mothers called an ambulance when accidents occurred.

Recommendation

Educational programs about the risk factors of domestic accidents and to provide information for mothers about safety measures in the home may help reduce home accidents. Future research should be focused on assessment of the prevalence of domestic accidents among children in different areas, among different age groups and with larger samples.
Assessment of Adverse Health effect of Levonorgestrel-releasing Intrauterine System (Mirena) among Women Attending Private Clinic
Authors: Al Qawi Oun Fatma F.A. , Idris Omaima , Aboushady Reda M.-N. , Abdel-Rahman Walaa M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Despite their known efficacy, recent studies have found that there is adverse health problem accompanied with Mirena as the following. Therefore, the current study aims to assess adverse health problems among levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (Mirena) users.

Design

A descriptive design was utilized for the study.

Setting

This study was conducted at the gynecological clinic in Rofayda Obstetrics and Gynecology Private Hospital, at El Shikh Zaied, El Giza Sector, Egypt. Purposive sample of 50 women using levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine (Mirena) system for at least 6 months. Two tools were used for the study (a) structured interviewing questionnaire schedule tool and (b) adverse health effect of Mirena assessment tool.

Results

The mean age among the study sample was 35.56±6.42 years. The common health problems among the study sample were physical problems 24% in the form of headache, 40% had weight gain, dermatological problem, including 34% acne, and 22% of the study sample had menstrual disturbance. Regarding psychological disturbance, 32% had depression and 42% had mood swings. Regarding gynecological problems, 22% had a vaginal infection as well as 8% had a decrease in libido.

Conclusion

Mirena is a promising and effective option for contraceptive and noncontraceptive methods. It is associated with health problems, as reported by Mirena users.

Recommendations

Organized educational guidelines facilities and methods about uses, complaints, and health problems toward Mirena such as lectures, handout, and videos should be developed and become accessible to all women in the outpatient clinic.
Supportive cryotherapy nursing intervention toward diminishing oral mucositis and associated pain among patients with cancer
Authors: Saad Amany M. , Ramadan Sedika S. , Mohamed Sabah N.H.
Published: May 2024

Background

Oral mucositis is a common problem with chemotherapy treatment. Cryotherapy is supportive in oncology, by preventing chemotherapy-induced complications such as oral mucositis and its related pain, through placing ice chips in the mouth.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of supportive cryotherapy nursing intervention toward diminishing oral mucositis and associated pain among patients with cancer.

Design

A quasi-experimental design was used.

Setting

The study was carried out at the chemotherapy outpatient clinic affiliated to El-Nasr Health Insurance Hospital, Helwan.

Sample

A purposive sample of 60 patients was equally divided into two groups: cryotherapy and control.

Tools

Four tools were used: (a) structured interview questionnaire, which included patient demographic characteristic and medical history; (b) the WHO oral mucositis assessment scale; (c) the oral assessment guide; and (d) the visual analog pain scale.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in incidence and severity of oral mucositis and pain between cryotherapy and control groups at 7, 14, and 21 days of chemotherapy. Moreover, there were highly statistically significant differences in mean scores of oral assessments between both groups throughout the study phases.

Conclusion

Supportive cryotherapy nursing intervention for patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy had a positive effect on diminishing oral mucositis and associated pain in the cryotherapy group compared with the control group.

Recommendations

Training courses should be conducted for oncology patients receiving chemotherapy drugs about applying oral cryotherapy. Moreover, further research studies are recommended on a wider scale to counsel patients with cancer about the effect of oral cryotherapy on oral mucositis with recent chemotherapy treatment.
Quality of life among elderly women with breast cancer who received chemotherapy at Sohag Cancer Institute, Sohag Governorate
Authors: Saied Atta Fatma , Mohamed Rizk Saneya , Abd El-Kareem Hegazy Mona
Published: May 2024

Background

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women all over the world. Breast cancer risk increases with age and about a third of female breast cancers are diagnosed in patients aged older than 70 years. Elderly breast cancer patients are affected by poorer quality of life (QoL) compared with younger patients.

Aim

The current study aimed to assess QoL of elderly women with breast cancer who received chemotherapy at Cancer Institute, Sohag Governorate.

Research questions

What is the QoL of breast cancer elderly women who received chemotherapy at Sohag Cancer Institute?

Design

Cross-sectional descriptive design was utilized.

Sample

Purposive sample of 100 elderly women with breast cancer, who completed all cycles of chemotherapy 1–3 months at least from the last dose of chemotherapy.

Setting

This study was conducted at the oncology building at outpatient clinics for cancer patients follow-up at Sohag Cancer Institute.

Tools

(1) Structured interviewing questionnaire for demographic and medical data. (2) QoL scale to assess QoL issues relevant to breast cancer patients (Algamdi and Hanneman, 2016).

Results

The results revealed that selected breast cancer elderly women aged from 60 to 80 years with mean 63.47±4.87 years. Seventy-two percent of them could not read and write, and 62% of them lived in rural areas. Seventy-eight percent suffered from chronic diseases. The mean of social well-being domain was 2.98±0.56, the mean of emotional well-being domain was 2.32±1.34, the mean of physical well-being domain was 1.79±1.15, and the mean of total Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Breast was 2.24±0.31. More than half of the women had poor QoL, more than one-third of them had fair QoL, and a minority had good QoL.

Conclusion

The current study concluded that 60% of the selected breast cancer elderly women had poor QoL, whereas 38% had fair QoL and only 2% had good QoL. Also, it revealed that more than half of women had poor physical, functional well-being, and additional concerns and about half of them had good social well-being.

Recommendations

The current study recommends use of QoL scale in elderly women with breast cancer in oncology outpatient clinics in different cancer institutes and conduction of health education programs and further research works for improving QoL in elderly women with breast cancer.
Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulation study of approved drugs as a binder to the linoleic acid binding site on spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 and double mutant (E484Q and L452R)
Authors: Prajapat Manisha , Sarma Phulen , Shekhar Nishant , Chauhan Arushi , Kaur Gurjeet , Bhattacharyya Anusuya , Avti Pramod , Choudhary Gajendra , Bansal Seema , Sharma Saurabh , Kaur Hardeep , Kumar Subodh , Mann Harvinder , Raja Anupam , Singh Ashutosh , Singh Rahul , Sharma Amit Raj , Prakash Ajay , Medhi Bikash
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Binding of linoleic acid (LA) to the spike trimer stabilizes it in closed conformation hindering its binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme-2, thus decreasing infectivity. In the current study, we tend to repurpose Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs as binder to the LA binding pocket in wild and double mutant spike protein.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Approved drugs from DrugBank database (n = 2456) were prepared using Ligprep module of Schrodinger. Crystal structure of LA bound to spike trimer was retrieved (PDB: 6ZB4) and prepared using protein preparation wizard and grid was generated. A virtual screening was performed. With the help of molecular dynamics (MD) studies interaction profile of screened drugs were further evaluated. The selected hits were further evaluated for binding to the double mutant form of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:

Following virtual screening, a total of 26 molecules were shortlisted, which were further evaluated using 1ns MD simulation study. Four ligands showing better root mean square deviation (RMSD), RMSD to LA with interaction profile similar to LA were further evaluated using 100 ns MD simulation studies. A total of 2 hits were identified, which performed better than LA (selexipag and pralatrexate). Both these ligands were also found to bind to LA binding site of the double mutant form (E484Q and L452R); however, the binding affinity of pralatrexate was found to be better.

CONCLUSION:

We have identified 2 ligands (selexipag and pralatrexate) as possible stable binders to the LA binding site in spike trimer (wild and mutant form). Among them, pralatrexate has shown in vitro activity against SARS-CoV-2, validating our study results.
Investigation of the Asyogh’s rectangular device for learning and memory testing in Wistar rats
Authors: Yadav Yogesh Chand
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to design Asyogh’s rectangular device that is used for memory testing in rodents. It was found that scopolamine (3 mg/kg i.p.) and diazepam (1 mg/kg i.p.) caused significant memory deficits in rats, as evidenced by increased transfer latency times. However, these memory deficits were significantly reversed when the rats were pretreated with Donepezil. It further demonstrates that pretreated donepezil is able to effectively restore the memory deficits induced by scopolamine and diazepam, as indicated by the significant recovery in TLT. The present study showed that the device used to measure transfer latency time that was a valuable tool for assessing memory and cognitive function in rodents.
The clinical effect of ossotide for injection in the treatment of condylar fracture
Authors: Jiang Qian , Chen Yifei , Zhu Fangyong , Xie Yujia , Zhu Zhidan , Sun Xiaojing
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Patients with condylar fractures were treated with osteopeptide injections as an adjuvant therapy to assess pain control and changes in interleukin-1b (IL-1β) and bone G-gla protein (BGP) levels.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Eighty-two patients with a condylar neck fracture were randomly assigned to two groups. The control group received conventional surgical treatment, while the experimental group received osteopeptide injections in addition to surgery. Pain level, IL-1β, and BGP levels were evaluated at 1, 2, and 4 weeks postsurgery.

RESULTS:

One and two weeks postsurgery, the experimental group had lower Numeric Rating Scale scores compared to the control group. In addition, the IL-1β level in patients receiving osteopeptide injections was lower than the control group at all three evaluation points (1, 2, and 4 weeks postsurgery) and the BGP level was higher with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The administration of osteopeptide injections as an adjuvant therapy for patients with condylar fractures can effectively reduce pain and facilitate faster initiation of muscle function training. In addition, the reduction of inflammatory factors and promotion of active osteogenesis leads to quicker wound healing.
Raptinal ameliorates 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colon cancer through p53/Bcl2/Bax/caspase-3-mediated apoptotic events in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lan Yongting , Yang Yang , Das Abhijit , Bhattacharya Barshana , Roy Souvik
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Colon carcinoma stands as the most familiar malignancy throughout across the globe. Raptinal induce apoptosis through the alteration of cellular events. Thus, in the present investigation, the anticancer activity of raptinal counter to 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) persuaded colon carcinoma has been evaluated through both in vivo and in vitro systems.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The pharmacophore analysis demonstrated the binding efficacy of raptinal with the apoptotic proteins. The chemotherapeutic activity of raptinal was examined through HT-29 human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell line as well as DMH persuaded CRC in the rat model. The cytotoxicity analysis, flow cytometry, and DAPI analysis have been carried out on HT-29 cell line through in vitro assessment. The colon carcinoma has been induced through DMH administration and subsequently Dextran sulfate sodium treatment in male Wistar rats. After 18 weeks of raptinal treatment, the colon tissues have been investigated for aberrant crypt foci (ACF) count, antioxidant status, histology, immunohistochemical assessment, and apoptotic analysis.

RESULTS:

The raptinal therapy on HT-29 cells demonstrated a substantial % of early apoptosis followed by G0 and G1 phase arrest, which subsequently led to apoptosis. Furthermore, it inhibits ACF development with improved colonic abrasions and structural integrity of colonic mucosa with increased levels of antioxidants, proapoptotic biomarkers including p53, caspase-3, Bax and downstream effects of Bcl-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interleukin (IL)-6 mutation.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings indicate the raptinal effectively reduces colon cancer by inducing apoptosis through p53/Bcl2/Bax/caspase-3 pathway and suppressing IL-6, TNF-mediated chronic inflammation in the colon cancer microenvironment.
Treatment of hydatid cyst with albendazole desensitization: A pediatric case report
Authors: Çalişkan Nilay , Coskun Raif , Bologur Hamit , Yildırım Güler , Güngör Hilal , Bosnali Oktav , Özçeker Deniz
Published: May 2024

Albendazole is a benzimidazole group drug used alone or in combination with surgery in the treatment of many helminthiasis, especially hydatid cysts. Type 1 hypersensitivity reaction has been reported rarely. Treatment with desensitization has been successfully applied in a few adult patients, however literature information on pediatric patients was not available. Here, we present a pediatric case in which Type 1 reaction occurred due to the use of albendazole during hydatid cyst treatment and undergone desensitization.
Influence of trazodone on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone
Authors: Pradeepkumar Bhupalam , Goruntla Narayana , Chinthaginjala Haranath , Reddy K. Somasekhar , Ahad Abdul , Sudheer A. , Raghavendra M.
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

These days, poly pharmacy is very common for the treatment of multiple diseases and majority of drugs were metabolized with CYP 450 enzymes. Diabetes mellitus is such a disorder, which requires continuous therapy for the control of blood glucose concentration. Depression was quite common in diabetic patients. Therefore, multiple drugs required to treat diabetes mellitus and depression. Simultaneous administration of these drugs leads to drug interaction. Pioglitazone and trazodone metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes which may lead to potential drug interaction.

OBJECTIVES:

This study aimed to find the influence of trazodone on the pharmacokinetics & pharmacodynamics of pioglitazone in normal & diabetic rats, also on rabbits and subsequently effectiveness and safety of the combination was evaluated.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:

Blood glucose concentration was determined by Glucose oxidase/peroxidase method in normal and diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced with Streptozotocin at a dose of 55 mg/kg body weight. Serum pioglitazone concentration was estimated by high performance liquid chromatography method for pharmacokinetic data. The values were expressed as Mean ± Standard Error Mean (SEM), GraphPad Prism 3.0 (San Diego, California, USA) software was used to express the data. Student's paired 't' test was used to determine the significance.

RESULTS:

Pioglitazone produces hypoglycaemia in normal rats with a maximum decrease of 36.78 % ± 0.81 at 3 hours interval and anti-hyperglycaemic activity in diabetic rats with maximum reduction of 45.13 % ± 1.52 at 2 hours interval. Trazodone altered the pharmacokinetics of pioglitazone and improved the pioglitazone hypoglycaemic effect.

CONCLUSION:

Trazodone apparently produced pharmacokinetic interaction with pioglitazone which might be by attenuating the metabolism of pioglitazone. Therefore, care should be taken in simultaneous therapy with pioglitazone and trazodone.
Efficacy and safety analysis of prucalopride in refractory chronic constipation cases in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern India
Authors: Dehury Suhasini , Mohapatra Sourya , Das Haribhakti Seba , Goutam Siddhartha , Kaushik Chetna
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES:

Chronic constipation (CC), a common functional gastrointestinal disorder, has laxatives as its mainstay of treatment. Refractoriness to laxatives calls for better treatment options. Prucalopride is a novel, well-tolerated enterokinetic with high 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 receptor selectivity. This study was undertaken with the intention to establish the efficacy and safety of prucalopride with placebo in adults with refractory CC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Patients were screened and 180 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were simply randomized into 2 groups either to receive prucalopride 2 mg (n = 90) or placebo (n = 90) once daily for a duration of 12 weeks. The efficacy endpoints (primary) were intended to measure the proportion of patients with three or more spontaneous complete bowel movements (SCBMs) per week over 12 weeks. Secondary endpoints were assessed via the validated questionnaires. Adverse events, electrocardiogram, and other laboratory parameters were monitored at different time intervals.

RESULTS:

Efficacy and safety were analyzed in 180 patients simply randomized (1:1) into group A (prucalopride arm, n = 90) and group B (placebo arm, n = 90). Patients having three or more SCBMs per week in the prucalopride arm (2 mg) were 41% as against to 12% in the placebo arm (P < 0.001). A significant increase (P < 0.001) in the number of spontaneous bowel movements per week plus an increase of average bowel movement by 1 point per week was seen in the prucalopride arm. Secondary efficacy endpoints which included patients' treatment satisfaction, improvement in the perception of constipation symptoms using the patient assessment of constipation -symptoms and stool consistency score changes were more pronounced in the prucalopride arm than the placebo. The most common adverse events reported from both the groups were headache, nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. No significant cardiovascular changes or laboratory abnormality was detected throughout the study period.

CONCLUSION:

Prucalopride is effective in laxative refractory CC cases with a good safety profile.
Peptides and peptidomimetics as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Kumaravel J. , Singh Harvinder , Kaur Sukhmeet , Prakash Ajay , Medhi Bikash
Published: May 2024

Novel SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) is affecting worldwide as declared pandemic by the WHO. Various repositioning and novel therapeutic agents are being evaluated under different clinical setups; however, there is no promising therapeutic agent reported to date. Small molecules like peptides have their popularity as their specificity, delivery, and synthesizability as promising therapeutic agents. In this study, we have reviewed the published literature describing peptide designing, in silico binding mode, antiviral activity, preventive measures, and in vivo assessments. Here, we reported all the results which are promising against SARS-CoV-2 as therapeutic and preventive (vaccine candidates), and their status in the drug development process.