bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning-Based Industrial Fault Diagnosis Using Induction Motor Bearing Signals
Authors: Islam Saiful , Chakraborty Sovon , Muna Jannatun Naeem , Kabir Moumita , Ruhi Zurana Mehrin , Uddin Jia
Published: April 2023

Earlier detection of faults in industrial types of machinery can reduce the cost of production. Observing these machines for humans is always a difficult task, for that purpose we need an automated process that can constantly monitor these machines. Without continuous monitoring, a huge downfall can happen that can cost enormous monitory value. In this research, we propose some transfer learning models along with LSTM for earlier detection of faults from vibration signals. Open source Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) dataset has been used to detect four types of signals using transfer learning models. The four classes are Normal, Inner, Ball, Outer. The dataset has divided into three parts namely set1, set2, and set3. VGG19, DenseNet-121, ResNet-50, InceptionV3, and LSTM are applied to that dataset for detecting faults in this signal. The earlier result shows VGG19, LSTM and InceptionV3 can predict the faults in signal with 100% accuracy in the validation set where DenseNet-121, Resnet-50 show an accuracy of 97% and 98% respectively.
3D Printing of Heart Model as Medical Education Tools
Authors: Kurniatie Menik Dwi , Andari Dhega Ivory , Asmaria Talitha
Published: April 2023

Abstract. 3D printing is a rapidly developing technology in the medical world that has been used for pre-operative planning, prosthetic manufacturing, and training for medical education. This 3D printing is needed for medical education to make it easier for students to study anatomical structures. The advantages of 3D printing provide more detail and tactile representation of anatomical aspects of organs to address the problems of online learning and cadaveric limitations. This research aimed to develop the manufacture of 3D printed models of the human heart organ to improve understanding in learning for medical students. Making a 3D printed model of a heart organ is divisible into six parts: the aorta, right ventricle, left atrium, left ventricle, right atrium, and pulmonary artery. The 3D printing model creation procedure consisted of several steps: image acquisition, image post-processing, and 3D printing. This research used Computed Tomography Scanning (CT-Scan) images of the normal heart in Digital Imaging in Medicine (DICOM) format from Saiful Anwar Hospital, Malang. The segmentation uses the grow from seed technique with 3D Slicer software and is saved in STL format. The accuracy of the 3D printing was carried out by measuring dimensions and volume. Measurements are required to ensure the accuracy of 3D printing so that the resulting organs match the initial image data and can be used as learning media in anatomical structures by medical students.
Interaction of Nmi and IFP35 Promotes Mutual Protein Stabilization and IRF3 and IRF7 Degradation to Suppress Type I IFN Production in Teleost Fish
Authors: Li Li , Chen Shan Nan , Wang Kai Lun , Li Nan , Pang An Ning , Liu Lan Hao , Li Bo , Hou Jing , Wang Su , Nie Pin
Published: April 2023

IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) can act as effector molecules against viral infection and can also regulate pathogenic infection and host immune response. N-Myc and STAT interactor (Nmi) is reported as an ISG in mammals and in fish. In this study, the expression of Nmi was found to be induced significantly by the infection of Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus (SCRV), and the induced expression of type I IFNs after SCRV infection was reduced following Nmi overexpression. It is observed that Nmi can interact with IRF3 and IRF7 and promote the autophagy-mediated degradation of these two transcription factors. Furthermore, Nmi was found to be interactive with IFP35 through the CC region to inhibit IFP35 protein degradation, thereby enhancing the negative role in type I IFN expression after viral infection. In turn, IFP35 is also capable of protecting Nmi protein from degradation through its N-terminal domain. It is considered that Nmi and IFP35 in fish can also interact with each other in regulating negatively the expression of type I IFNs, but thus in enhancing the replication of SCRV.
Table of Contents Vol 4, No 1 (2022)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 78, No 2 (2022)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 5, No 1 (2022)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 89, No 1 (2022)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Table of Contents Vol 24, No 1 (2022)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: April 2023

No abstract available.
Association between Hyperthyroidism and Thromboembolism
Authors: Alsaidan Aseel Awad , Alruwiali Fahad
Published: April 2023

Background:

Thyroid gland diseases are a common health problem worldwide. Increase of thyroid gland hormones can cause numerous conditions that range from mild cases to life-threatening diseases. Hyperthyroidism is not a common risk factor for venous thrombosis (VT), many studies found a relation between hyperthyroidism and thromboembolism.

Objectives:

We sought to detect any changes in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and free T4 value associated with the occurrence of Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), and cerebral VT.

Methodology:

An observational retrospective review of outpatients’ records in King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh from January 2018 to March 2020 includes all patients with hyperthyroidism, patients who are bedridden, recent surgeries, and those on oral contraceptives pills or on anticoagulants were excluded from the study. All symptomatic VT cases are objectively confirmed.

Results:

Three hundred patients were recognized, of whom most were female (80%), whereas (20%) were male, mean age in identified patients was (42.3 ± 14.5 years; range, 18–80 years). Of all patients, 3 (1%) patients had DVTs, equally 3 (1%) patients had PE, and 2 (0.7%) patients had cerebral embolism. TSH level has a significant association with the overall risk of DVT, PE, and cerebral embolism. In the FT4 level, there was a significant association with the risk of DVT and PE but not with cerebral embolism.

Conclusions:

The literature indicates a significantly associated between the development of VT and hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, the data support that hyperthyroidism is considered an additional risk factor for VT.
Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome in Patients with Epilepsy, their Relation with Epilepsy Control
Authors: Nazish Saima
Published: April 2023

Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are commonly observed in patients with epilepsy (PWE). Obesity and MetS are not only affecting the physical fitness and quality of life of these patients, rather antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) compliance and seizure control have also been affected. The objective of this review is to search the published literature regarding the prevalence of obesity and MetS in PWE and their relation to the response to AEDs. A comprehensive search using PubMed, Cochrane Databases, and Google Scholar was performed. A supplementary citation search was also conducted by analyzing the reference lists of identified sources. The initial search revealed 364 articles of potential relevance. The studies were analyzed in detail to obtain clinical information relevant to the objectives of the review. Many observational, case control studies, randomized control trials and few review articles were included for critical appraisal and review writing. Epilepsy is associated with MetS and obesity in all age groups. AEDs and lack of exercise are the chief causes while metabolic disturbances such as adiponectin, mitochondrial dysfunction, valproic acid (VPA)-associated insulin resistance, leptin deficiency, and endocrine dysfunction are also addressable factors. Although the risk of drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) is also higher among obese PWE, the interaction between, MetS, and its components with DRE remain to be fully investigated. Further research is required to elucidate their interplay. Appropriate and careful selection of AEDs without compromising therapeutic efficacy supplemented by lifestyle counseling for exercise and diet should be practiced to avoid weight gain and potential DRE.
Identifying Challenges in Implementing Child Rights Instruments in Nigeria
Authors: Adeleye Qadri Adebayo , Ahmed Patience Abaluomo , Babaniyi Iretiola Bosede , Oniyangi Oluseyi , Mukhtar-Yola Mariya , Adelayo Adeola Yetunde , Wey Yewande Osatohanmwen , Ononiwu Uchenna Nneka , Sanni Usman Abiola , Adeleye Bilkis Bukola , Audu Lamidi Isah
Published: April 2023

Context:

After thirty years of ratifying the child rights convention and nineteen years of the Child Rights Act, implementing child rights instruments remains challenging in Nigeria. Healthcare providers are well positioned to change the current paradigm.

Aim:

To examine the knowledge, perception, and practice of child rights and the influence of demographics among Nigerian doctors and nurses.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional online survey was done using nonprobability sampling. Pretested multiple-choice questionnaire was disseminated across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Performance was measured on the frequency and ratio scales. Mean scores were compared with 50% and 75% thresholds.

Results:

A total of 821 practitioners were analyzed (doctors, 49.8%; nurses, 50.2%). Female-to-male ratio was 2:1 (doctors, 1.2:1; nurses, 3.6:1). Overall, knowledge score was 45.1%; both groups of health workers had similar scores. Most knowledgeable were holders of fellowship qualification (53.2%, P = 0.000) and pediatric practitioners (50.6%, P = 0.000). Perception score was 58.4% overall, and performances were also similar in both groups; females and southerners performed better (59.2%, P = 0.014 and 59.6%, P = 0.000, respectively). Practice score was 67.0% overall; nurses performed better (68.3% vs. 65.6%, P = 0.005) and postbasic nurses had the best score (70.9%, P = 0.000).

Conclusions:

Overall, our respondents’ knowledge of child rights was poor. Their performances in perception and practice were good but not sufficient. Even though our findings may not apply to all health workers in Nigeria, we believe teaching child rights at various levels of medical and nursing education will be beneficial. Stakeholder engagements involving medical practitioners are crucial.
Association between Low Back Pain, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, and Diastasis Rectus Abdominis in Postnatal Delivery Women
Authors: Rai Rishita , Subramanian Sudhakar
Published: April 2023

Background:

It is crucial to understand diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) in postpartum women and how it affects them. DRA should be related to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and low back pain (LBP). Prior researchers have contradictory findings in their studies.

Objective:

To estimate the prevalence of DRA and find the association between LBP, PFD, and DRA.

Methodology:

According to the eligibility criteria, 102 participants from Bengaluru were chosen for this study. The physical screening was performed to rule out DRA. Following informed consent, the participants have given the Oswestry Disability Index Questionnaire for LBP and Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire-7 for PFD. Subjects were divided into two classes: case and control. The data were analyzed using the Chi-square test and the Odds ratio using SPSS Software.

Results:

This analysis presents the findings of the prevalence of DRA and also the findings of rated LBP and PFD in both the groups. The degree of impact was determined to be P < 0.05.

Conclusion:

As an outcome, there is an association between LBP, PFD, and DRA.
Dentists' Perspective on Tobacco Cessation and Counseling in Jeddah
Authors: Vanka Shanthi , Afandi Dalya Nabil , Otaif Rana Hassan , Sharbatly Anan Adel , Hejazi Raghad Emad , Aljohani Raghad Sultan , Wali Othman , Vanka Amit
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

A major cause of death on a global scale is tobacco and in fact the biggest preventable cause of mortality and illness worldwide. The World Health Organization estimates that there are 1100 million regular smokers worldwide and they are increasing alarmingly. Dentists play a pivotal role in the prevention of tobacco use as patients approach dentists for cosmetic reasons. We planned this study to find the experience of dentists on tobacco cessation and counseling.

Methods:

We designed the study as an analytical cross-sectional study. The data were collected through a questionnaire using Google Forms targeting all the dentists in Jeddah. The questionnaire Google link was sent to their WhatsApp and other electronic means. Consent from the dentists was obtained prior to collecting information from the dentists.

Results:

89.9% of dentists agreed that it is the duty of every dentist to advise the patient on tobacco cessation and 10.1% disagreed. 81.7% of dentists agreed that all dentists have the capability of doing tobacco cessation practices. Seventy-eight percent of dentists agreed that dentists are not presently well prepared to assist patients with tobacco cessation in contrast with 22% who disagree. The scientific evidence relating to the burden of oral diseases has always been attributable to tobacco use, and a well-structured dental teaching curriculum for the dentists and the auxiliaries concentrating on oral cancer education and tobacco cessation interventions has to be emphasized in the Kingdom for the dentists (28). Dentists require formal training to do tobacco cessation successfully to reach a major goal of a “tobacco-free society.”

Conclusion:

There should be an emphasis on formal training being an effective tool to provide guidelines to the dentist and auxiliaries in tobacco cessation and counseling of the patients in the dental clinic.
Factors of Venous Thromboembolism among COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Low Lee Fern , Islahudin Farida , Saffian Shamin Mohd
Published: April 2023

Context:

Anticoagulants are used to prevent and treat venous thromboembolism (VTE), such as deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in COVID-19 for better outcomes.

Aim:

This study aims to explore clinical outcomes and factors affecting VTE among COVID-19 patients.

Settings and Design:

The study design involved a retrospective cohort study.

Study Methods:

Hospitalized COVID-19 patients in a tertiary hospital prescribed subcutaneous (SC) anticoagulants were included.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine factors affecting VTE among subjects.

Results:

A total of 450 patients were included. Types of anticoagulants include fondaparinux (n = 114, 38.1%), enoxaparin (n = 113, 37.8%), and heparin (n = 72, 24.1%). 423 (94.0%) patients were discharged well, 27 (6.0%) patients were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). The primary outcome was the prevalence of VTE, which occurred in 19.3% (n = 87) patients, with 80 (92.0%) reporting DVT and 7 (8.0%) reporting PE. The secondary outcome, which was the average length of hospital stay was 9.9 (±4.7) days. Factors of VTE occurrence were likely in patients not prescribed SC anticoagulants compared to those prescribed with SC anticoagulants (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 54.330, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.086, 416.526), treatment with fondaparinux compared to heparin (aOR 2.502, 95% CI: 1.175, 5.327), and less likely in those discharged well compared to patients in the ICU (aOR 0.139, 95% CI: 0.053, 0.361).

Conclusions:

Careful monitoring is required to reduce VTE risk in COVID-19 patients.
Methotrexate-induced Neutropenia
Authors: Parmar Kesha Ajaykumar , Mehta Maulin D
Published: April 2023

Various malignancies, autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and elective abortions commonly use methotrexate (MTX) for their treatment, which is a folate antagonist. Although many cases of the common side effects of MTX such as nausea, vomiting, and stomatitis have been reported, very few cases of MTX-induced neutropenia have been found in the literature. We have taken a case of neutropenia that developed after the patient took tablet MTX for RA. The case was studied and the causality assessment of the reported adverse drug reaction showed it to be in the category of “probable” according to the WHO-UMC causality categories.
Drug Safety Alerts Issued by the National Coordination Centre for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India
Authors: Rajesh Dasaraju , Thejaswini Muppala
Published: April 2023

Background:

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) due to drug therapy are inevitable and prior knowledge of their causative agents can avoid unnecessary economic burden on patients as well as on the health-care system.

Objectives:

To create awareness among health-care professionals about the drug safety alerts (DSAs) issued by the National Coordination Centre for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (NCC-PvPI) till December 2022 and to reiterate the importance of spontaneous reporting of adverse events for better patient care.

Methodology:

A retrospective analysis of 141 DSAs issued from March 2016 to December 2022 was done. The ADRs were analyzed for the type of reactions, system organ class, and according to drug class. Microsoft Office 2007 was used to formulate the data and presented it in a descriptive manner using numbers and percentages.

Results:

Out of 141 DSAs under analysis, 101 individual drugs, 2 drug classes, and 7 drug combinations have developed 144 ADRs. These ADRs were compressed into 86 different types as similar ADRs were caused by more than one drug. Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms is the most common ADR noticed, followed by skin manifestations such as toxic epidermal necrolysis, acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, skin hyperpigmentation, fixed drug eruption, symmetrical drug-related intertriginous and flexural exanthema, and photosensitivity reaction. The most common causative drugs for ADRs were antimicrobial agents, cephalosporins being the most commonly implicated medication class.

Conclusions:

Most of the ADRs advised to closely monitor by the NCC-PvPI through DSAs were treatable by early and appropriate management. Due to the high number of skin manifestations observed in the analysis, the role of dermatologists in taking detailed drug history is critical when making a differential diagnosis of skin lesions. Motivation and creating awareness among health-care professionals and patients to spontaneously report adverse events can only strengthen the pharmacovigilance system in India.
ClinicoPathological Overview of Ovarian Tumors and Diagnostic Utility of Imprint Cytology
Authors: Patel Nirali , Bavikar Rupali , Ingale Yaminy Pradeep , Lad Yesha Parimalbhai , Dharwadkar Arpana , Viswanathan Vidya
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

For intra-operative diagnosis of ovarian tumors, imprint cytology is the method which gives result within 20 min. It does not affect the quality and utility of the specimen for histopathology. Despite advances in genetics and imaging, histopathological analysis remains the mainstay of ovarian tumor diagnosis.

Aim:

To describe incidence, age distribution, histological characteristics and whenever feasible, correlate the histopathological diagnosis of ovarian tumors with the imprint cytology technique.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 200 patients with ovarian tumors were included in this ambispective study from January 2017 to April 2022 at the Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center, Pimpri.

Results:

One hundred and forty-eight (74%) of the 200 cases were benign, while 52 (26%) were malignant. The peak age incidence of benign tumors was in the second to fourth decades and malignant ovarian tumors was in fourth to sixth decades. Ovarian tumors involved the left ovary (n = 104, 52%) more than the right ovary (n = 90, 45%). Out of 200 cases, 130 cases (65%) were surface epithelial ovarian tumors, followed by 50 cases (25%) were germ cell tumors, followed by 14 cases (7%) were sex cord stromal tumors followed by 3 cases (3%) were secondary/metastatic tumors of ovary. Imprint cytology technique done on 148 cases (74%) showed 100% correlation with the histopathological diagnosis.

Conclusion:

Imprint cytology diagnosis correlated with the histopathological diagnosis of ovarian tumors.
Perspectives of Medical Students on E-Learning in the Surgery Module
Authors: Fathuldeen Anas Abdulqader , Alshammari Ahmed Onayzan , Khalifah Eyad Mohammed , Alrashid Fauwaz Fahad , Alqahtani Abdulaziz Saad , Alenazi Fahaad Saleh , Alruwaili Sager Holyl , Alshmmri Mohammed Anizan , Idris Saadeldin Ahmed
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

The goal of this study was to explore medical students' perceptions, assess their experiences, and identify obstacles to e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to understand the factors behind its adoption and application as a learning means in the surgery module.

Materials and Methods:

Data were gathered from undergraduate medical students, at the University of Hail, KSA, in their surgery module using an electronic questionnaire. Subsequently, SPSS version 25.0 (IBM, Armonk, NY, USA) has been used for analysis.

Results:

The study included 72 students, with a participation rate of 85.7%. Students positively perceived technology (M = 4.024 ± 0.94 and P < 0.001). Most respondents (79.5%) claimed that e-learning required less time for studying than the conventional learning technique (M = 4.14 ± 1.052 and P < 0.001). They had positive perceptions of the implications of e-learning (M = 3.92 ± 0.89 and P < 0.001). Regarding the perception toward instructors, 53.9% admitted that when instructors use computer technologies, it adequately met their needs. The mean agreeability to online quizzes was high (M = 3.8264 ± 0.910). More than half preferred the blended style of learning. A-70.9% interested in using e-learning (M = 3.83 ± 1.278 and P < 0.001). There was no statistical difference among genders (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study addresses the determinants behind the adoption and use of e-learning within the surgery module. Therefore, it will support the event of a rational approach to an effective application of e-learning and look at it as a positive initiative toward development and alteration.
Metabolite Fingerprinting and Profiling of Selected Medicinal Plants Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Sahoo Manas Ranjan , Umashankar Marakanam Srinivasan
Published: April 2023

Background:

Medicinal herbs are well known for their therapeutic effects and are traditionally used in the treatment and prevention of numerous diseases. Further plant-derived natural products have also been a valuable source of lead compounds for drug discovery and development. As the bioactivity of natural extracts is due to synergism between hundreds of metabolites present in the plant extract, the complete metabolomic analysis can be used for the quality control of phytomedicine. The 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) fingerprint of the herbal extract can be used as a promising approach for comprehensive analysis of secondary metabolites to obtain a holistic view. The 1H-NMR spectroscopy has the advantage that it requires little quantity of samples and simple sample preparation method.

Objectives:

The study aimed to study the secondary metabolites of seven selected herbs, namely Abies webbiana, Cuminum cyminum, Elettaria cardamomum, Zingiber officinale, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Piper longum, and Terminalia chebula.

Materials and Methods:

The secondary metabolites of the herbal extracts were studied by recording the 1H-NMR spectra using NMR spectrometer in suitable solvent.

Results:

The putative metabolites that have been identified were 4-methoxy quercetin, luteolin, cuminaldehyde, 1,8-cineole, elettarins, gingerol, shogaol, glycyrrhizin, liquiritigenin, glabridin, betulinic acid, oleanolic acid, arabinogalactan, chebulagic acid, and gallic acid.

Conclusion:

The study highlighted the potential of NMR metabolomics in the study of plant extracts and their application for the quality control of phytomedicine.
First-in-man use of an Indian-made balloon-expandable covered Zephyr stent and intermediate-term follow-up
Authors: Sagar Pramod , Puthiyedath Thejaswi , Sivakumar Kothandam
Published: April 2023

Covered stent is used in large-vessel angioplasty in anticipation of vessel wall injury. Apart from aortic coarctation, they are also used in dysfunctional right ventricular outflow conduits and find a recent role in transcatheter sinus venosus defect closure. Different methods of covering stents include glue fixation, sutureless lamination, sandwich, and sintering lamination. Covered Zephyr (Sahajanand laser technology limited, Gandhinagar, India) is a new Indian-made expanded polytetrafluoroethylene-covered balloon expandable cobalt-chromium stent. Its unique C and S links prevent foreshortening. We report the first-in-man use of this new stent in severe discrete postsubclavian coarctation of aorta and its short-term follow-up imaging.
Indications for and outcomes of interstage catheter interventions following the Norwood procedure: A single-institution study
Authors: Bouyaala Yousra , Bindermann Robert , Wendt Stefanie , Kroener Axel , Bennink Gerardus , Sreeram Narayanswami
Published: April 2023

Aims:

The aim of this study was to document the incidence, types, and outcome of interstage catheter interventions following the Norwood surgical palliation.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective single-center study of all patients surviving the Norwood operation was performed. All data concerning interstage catheter interventions up to the completion of the superior cavopulmonary shunt were collected.

Results:

Catheter interventions were performed in 62 of 94 patients (66%; 38 males). These included interventions on the aortic arch (n = 44), the branch pulmonary arteries (PAs) (n = 17), and the Sano shunt (n = 14). Multiple interventions and repeat interventions were common. The minimum aortic arch diameter (pre- versus posttreatment) increased from median 3.1 (2.3–3.3) mm to 5.1 (4.2–6.2) mm (P < 0.001). The catheter pullback gradient decreased from 40 (36–46) mmHg to 9 (5–10) mmHg (P < 0.001), and the echocardiographic gradient from 54 (45–64) mmHg to 12 (10–16) mmHg (P < 0.001). The branch PA diameters increased from 2.4 (2.1–3.0) mmHg to 4.7 (4.2–5.1) mmHg (P < 0.001). The minimum Sano shunt diameters increased from 2.0 (1.5–2.1) mm to 5.9 (5.8–6.0) mm (P < 0.001); this was associated with an improvement in systemic saturation from 63% (60%–65%) to 80% (79–82%) (P < 0.001). Unexpected interstage death at home occurred in two patients who had received no interventions. The remainder received a superior cavopulmonary shunt palliation.

Conclusions:

Catheter interventions were common. Systematic follow-up and a low threshold for reintervention are essential to the success of staged surgical palliation for this patient cohort.
Experience with the largest custom-made 48 mm fenestrated atrial septal occluder device and its 4-year follow-up
Authors: Sivakumar Kothandam , Jain Gaurav
Published: April 2023

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) measuring <38 mm are referred for transcatheter closure. Availability of larger devices up to 46 mm extended the inclusion criteria. An elderly hypertensive male with a 44 mm secundum ASD and coexistent sick sinus syndrome and atrioventricular (AV) nodal block presented with syncope. Balloon interrogation unmasked restrictive left ventricular (LV) physiology. After AV synchronous pacing, balloon-assisted deployment of a custom fenestrated 48 mm Figulla septal occluder (Occlutech Inc., Schaffhausen, Switzerland) prevented a rise of LV end-diastolic pressures beyond 12 mmHg. Echocardiogram and computed tomography after 4 years confirmed a patent fenestration and favorable remodeling. This report of the clinical use of the largest ASD device demonstrated the feasibility of closure of extremely large defects despite a restrictive LV.
Randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of prophylactic amiodarone versus dexmedetomidine on reducing the incidence of postoperative junctional ectopic tachycardia after pediatric open heart surgery
Authors: Wadile Santosh , Sivakumar Kothandam , Murmu Udaya Charan , Ganesan Selvakumar , Dhandayuthapani Giridhar Gopal , Agarwal Ravi , Sheriff Ejaz Ahamed , Varghese Roy
Published: April 2023

Background:

Junctional ectopic tachycardia (JET) is the most common arrhythmia after pediatric open-heart surgeries (OHS), causing high morbidity and mortality. As diagnosis is often missed in patients with minimal hemodynamic instability, its incidence depends on active surveillance. A prospective randomized trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of prophylactic amiodarone and dexmedetomidine to prevent and control postoperative JET.

Methods:

Consecutive patients aged under 12 years were randomized into amiodarone, dexmedetomidine (initiated during anesthetic induction) and control groups. Outcome measures included incidence of JET, inotropic score, ventilation, and intensive care unit (ICU) duration and hospital stay, as well as adverse drug effects.

Results:

Two hundred and twenty-five consecutive patients with a median age of 9 months (range 2 days–144 months) and a median weight of 6.3 kg (range 1.8 kg–38 kg) were randomized with 70 patients each to amiodarone and dexmedetomidine groups, and the rest were controls. Ventricular septal defect and Fallot’s tetralogy were the common defects. The overall incidence of JET was 16.4%. Syndromic patients, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, longer bypass, and cross-clamp duration were the risk factors for JET. Patients with JET had significantly prolonged ventilation (P = 0.043), longer ICU (P = 0.004), and hospital stay (P = 0.034) than those without JET. JET was less frequent in amiodarone (8.5%) and dexmedetomidine (14.2%) groups compared to controls (24.7%) (P = 0.022). Patients receiving amiodarone and dexmedetomidine had significantly lower inotropic requirements, lower ventilation duration (P = 0.008), ICU (P = 0.006), and hospital stay (P = 0.05). Adverse effects such as bradycardia and hypotension after amiodarone and ventricular dysfunction after dexmedetomidine were not significantly different from controls.

Conclusion:

Prophylactic amiodarone or dexmedetomidine started before OHS is effective and safe for the prevention of postoperative JET.
Use of drug-coated balloon instead of drug-eluting stent for pediatric cardiac allograft vasculopathy
Authors: Hirose Masaki , Narita Jun , Hashimoto Kazuhisa , Ishii Ryo , Ishida Hidekazu , Ozono Keiichi
Published: April 2023

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) sometimes leads to restenosis, even after percutaneous transcatheter intervention. Recently, drug-coated balloons (DCBs) have been successfully used to treat coronary artery disease, especially CAVs, in adults. However, no studies have used DCBs in pediatric CAVs. We encountered a patient with CAV who underwent cardiac transplantation for restrictive cardiomyopathy at the age of 2 years. Nine years after the transplantation, severe stenosis of the proximal left anterior descending branch was observed. Considering the patient’s young age and the possibility of restenosis, we performed an intervention with DCB. Follow-up conducted 7 months after the intervention showed no restenosis. Cardiac coronary artery lesions following transplantation are more likely to result in restenosis earlier than arteriosclerotic lesions. In pediatric patients, restenosis might require multiple stents and prolonged antiplatelet therapy. Our findings provide evidence supporting the possibility of an effective treatment of CAV in children.
Realignment of the ventricular septum in tetralogy of Fallot using (partial) direct closure of the ventricular septal defect: Long-term follow-up and comparison to conventional patch repair
Authors: Auer Alexander , Callegari Alessia , Sitte Vanessa , Pretre Rene , Dave Hitendu , Christmann Martin
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

Aortic dilatation and regurgitation after surgical repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is known, and beside other factors, mainly addressed to an intrinsic aortopathy. In 2011, we reported the influence of realingement of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) by (partial) direct closure of the ventricular septal defect (VSD) in TOF on aortic structures and function. We now evaluated the further follow-up of this cohort and compared the results to a matched group of TOF patients with classical VSD patch closure.

Patients and Methods:

Forty patients with TOF treated between 2003 and 2008 are included in the study, with 20 patients each in the VSD (a) (partial) direct closure and (b) patch closure group. Follow-up time after surgery was 12.3 years (11.3–13.0).

Results:

Patient characteristics, echocardiographic measurements, and surgical and intensive care unit parameters were not significantly different between both groups. After surgery and during long-term follow-up, realignement of the LVOT, shown by the angle between the interventricular septum and the anterior aortic annulus in long axis view in echocardiography, was lower in Group A (34 vs. 45°, P < 0.0001). No differences in LVOT or aortic annulus size, aortic regurgitation, or dilation of the ascending aorta and right ventricular outflow tract gradients were found. Transient rhythm disturbances were found in 3 patients in each group, with only one persistent complete atrioventricular block in Group B.

Conclusion:

(Partial) direct closure of the VSD in TOF leads to a better realignement of the LVOT and showed comparable short- and long-term results without higher risk for rhythm disturbances during follow-up.
Multimodality hemodynamic evaluation for optimizing management of anomalous origin of the right pulmonary artery from the aorta in an adolescent
Authors: Gupta Saurabh Kumar , Choubey Mrigank , Kumar Sanjeev , Patel Chetan , Airan Balram
Published: April 2023

The hemodynamics of anomalous origin of the pulmonary artery (PA) from the aorta is challenging. Different sources of blood supply to the lungs lead to a unique state of differential flow, pressure, and pulmonary vascular resistance in each lung. The decision for surgical reimplantation of the anomalous PA during infancy is easy. The assessment of operability beyond infancy, however, is perplexing. In this report, we describe stepwise multimodal hemodynamic evaluation and successful surgical management in a 15-year-old boy with an isolated anomalous origin of the right PA from the aorta. We also report 5-year hemodynamic data confirming sustained benefit over the long term, thus providing much-needed clinical validation of often cited Poiseuille’s and Ohm’s laws.
A new terpenoid from Olea europaea L. leaves and potential aptitude of different leaf extracts as anti-inflammatory agents
Authors: Ghanem Mona T.M. , Tawfik Wafaa A. , Mahdy El-Sayed M. , Abdelgawad Mohamed E. , Mohamed Tarik A. , Hamed Ahmed R. , Ohta Shingi , Hegazy Mohamed Elamir F. , Abdel-Azim Nahla S. , Shahat Abdelaaty A. , El-Missiry Moustafa M.
Published: April 2023

Background

The olive tree (Olea europaea L.) has played a significant role in medical history, being used to relieve a wide range of illnesses in traditional medicine. The value of olive leaves came from their medicinal and nutritional properties. In recent times, it has been proven that there is a potential role of leaves in cancer prevention and inflammatory illnesses.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to look at the chemical makeup of methylene chloride fraction and also to evaluate the chemopreventive properties and the anti-inflammatory activity of different olive leave fractions using hepa1c1c7 cells and RAW264.7 macrophages activated by lipopolysaccharides, respectively.

Materials and methods

Air-dried powdered olive leaves were defatted with hexane, and the marc was then soaked in 80% methanol and successively extracted with CH2Cl2, EtOAc, and n-BuOH. Phytochemical investigation of CH2Cl2 fraction was done. The chemopreventive effect was determined in vitro using a hepa1c1c7 human carcinoma cell line, and the anti-inflammatory was carried out using RAW264.7 macrophages.

Results and conclusion

One novel compound, identified and given the name oleuropeinone (

1

), was obtained together with two known compounds, blumenol A (

2

) and megaritolactonol (

3

). Spectroscopic data such as 1H and 13C NMR were used to identify their chemical structures. The CH2Cl2 fraction is the most effective fraction to inhibit inflammatory markers inducible nitric oxide synthase and COX-2 protein expression in RAW264.7 macrophages. Moreover, it has a potent effect in inducing the chemopreventive marker NQO1 protein expression.
Assessment the effect of He-Ne laser treatment of Balanites aegyptiaca seeds on the amelioration of active constituents, antioxidant capacity, and anticancer impact in vitro
Authors: Mousa F.M. , Ali M.M. , Abdel-Halim A.H. , Khamis G. , Morsy M. , Ghanem H.M.
Published: April 2023

Background and objective

Cancer is still a major health problem worldwide, with an estimated 18.1 million new cases in 2018, and it is expected to increase by 75% by 2030. Chemotherapeutic drugs have disadvantages such as toxicity to noncancerous tissues, drug resistance, and recurrence of cancer. Medicinal plants with their active components have great potential as an important source for novel drug discovery owing to their availability, efficiency, and safety. Searching for new strategies to obtain new drugs with higher efficiency and more safety represents an urgent need. Laser light treatment for seeds is known to improve germination, plant growth, and bioactive substance. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of laser irradiation on improvement of the phytochemicals compounds and biological activities of Balanites aegyptiaca seeds.

Materials and methods

The effect of laser pretreatment was investigated at different powers, that is, 25, 50, 100, and 200 mW, with two-time intervals for each power (2 and 4 min), on B. aegyptiaca seeds to enhance the germination and antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts of their dry plant material through different assays and select the most powerful laser pretreatment extract to evaluate the anticarcinogenic activity on different cell lines.

Results and conclusion

The results bring to light that the most efficient laser treatment for seeds of B. aegyptiaca was at 200 mW/4 min, which induces the highest yield percentage, total phenolic and flavonoid contents, metal chelating, reducing power, as well as free diphenylpicrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical scavenging activities. Based on these outcomes, the antiproliferative screening assay of the methanolic extracts for the shoots (S) and roots (R) dry plant material of B. aegyptiaca after helium-neon laser treatment at 200 mW for 4 min compared with control was performed on a panel of three cancer cell lines (HepG2, HCT116, and MCF-7) using the sulphorhodamine-B assay, and cytotoxicity was determined using normal BHK fibroblast cell line. Obtained results indicated that these extracts should be regarded as potential anticarcinogenic resources against the HepG2 cell line, displayed moderate activity against MCF-7 and HCT116 cell lines, and exhibited no activity against the growth of the normal BHK cell line. Furthermore, a comparison between these laser-treated extracts, and their mixtures against their control extracts and their mixtures, using the doxorubicin as the reference drug on the HepG2 cell line was in favor of the laser-treated roots and shoots extracts, respectively.
Studies on red-pigment production by Talaromyces atroroseus TRP-NRC mutant II from wheat bran via solid-state fermentation
Authors: Fadel Mohamed , Elkhateeb Yomna A.M.
Published: April 2023

Background

Recently, the need of finding eco-friendly and less-hazardous pigments focused on an important alternative to harmful synthetic dyes. High productivity of various pigments from microorganisms, their rapid growth throughout the year, stability, and solubility of their pigments provide them advantages more than pigments produced from other natural sources.

Objective

The objective of this study is to improve red-pigment production from local isolated fungusTalaromyces atroroseusTRP-NRC on an inexpensive substrate (wheat bran) under solid-state fermentation system by using different mutants. Then, comparing between pigment released from fungi after mutation by different mutants, comparing the efficiency of different solvents for the extraction of red biopigments under different conditions, and then extraction of pigment and studying its structure.

Materials and methods

A novel locally non-mycotoxin-producing fungusT. atroroseusTRP-NRC was treated with γ-ray radiation followed by subjecting to ultraviolet rays and grown on wheat bran as a complete medium via solid-state fermentation technique. Different solvents, including water, ethanol, methanol, and acetone, were applied to extract pigment from dried fermented wheat bran. The effect of pH, temperature, and contact time on yield of pigment extraction was studied. Stability of extracted pigment to heat, autoclaving, and ultraviolet rays was studied. Antimicrobial activity of extracted pigment was studied. The extracted sample was subjected to high-performance liquid-chromatography analysis and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS program atPvalue less than 0.05.

Results and conclusion

The mutant fungus (I) by gamma radiation achieved 30% increase in red pigment compared with the wild type. The mutant fungus (I) was subjected to ultraviolet rays, mutant (II) added 22% increase in pigment production compared with mutant obtained by gamma radiation. About 70% v/v of methanol, ethanol, and acetone were more efficient for extracting pigment with an advantage of 70% v/v acetone. The yield of pigment extraction was affected by pH, temperature, and contact time, and was at pH 6.5 at 50°C after 16 h. The produced pigment appeared to be heat-stable when subjected to heat from 30 to 80°C for 6 h. The pigment was also stable when autoclaved at 121°C for 15 min. The pigment was stable when subjected to ultraviolet rays for 6 h. The extracted pigment showed antibacterial activity againstBacillus subtilis(Gram-positive) andEscherichia coli(Gram-negative). Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis revealed that eighteen compounds were identified in the acetone extract of pigment. In general, the prevailing two compounds of fermented wheat bran byT. atroroseusTRP-NRC mutant-II extract were 9, octadenoic acid (43.72) and 1,1’-bicyclopropyl-2-octanoic acid, 2’-hexyl-, methyl ester 43.72%.
Effect of anthropometric and sociodemographic variables on physical activity levels of people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome on highly active antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Anikpe Jane Nwanneka , Chukwu Aroh Joseph , Edem Ekom Ndifreke , Elahmar Adel A E , Sinha Sohini , Arome David
Published: April 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

Physical inactivity plays a major role in promoting disease outcome, but physical activity enhances effective prevention and treatment of chronic diseases; hence, this study was to determine the effect of anthropometric and demographic factors on the physical activity level of people living with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) on antiretroviral therapy.

Materials and Methods:

This study adopted a cross-sectional method of descriptive research design. A sample size of 170 participants was recruited for this research comprising 113 females and 57 males, who after obtaining their informed consent were issued questionnaires which they meticulously filled under a proper guidance. The participants were almost proportionally distributed across the three levels of physical activity, though about half of them had a normal weight of body mass index (BMI) based on the information obtained.

Results:

The study showed that physical activity according to age significantly affected the BMI (P < 0.05). Physical activity level according to gender had no statistically significant effect on BMI of people living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral drugs (P > 0.05). However, it was observed that gender had a significant determining effect on BMI, though not related to PAL.

Conclusions:

The findings possibly imply that the psychological effect and the stigma may be the determining factors for the unwillingness to engage in physical activities. This calls for a renewed sensitization and orientation in this aspect.
The rs568408 variant in the IL-12A gene is associated with risk for COVID-19 in Iraqi patients
Authors: AL-Khikani Falah Hasan Obayes , Alkhafaji Zaytoon Abdulridha
Published: April 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

The objective of the current study was to check the link between potential polymorphism in IL12A rs568408 and the possible risk of COVID-19 in the Iraqi population.

Materials and Methods:

Allele specific-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was carried out for genotyping and detection of IL12A rs568408 gene polymorphism in a case–control study of 125 severe COVID-19 cases and 60 controls. Patients were admitted to either Marjan medical city or Al-Sadeq hospital’s COVID-19 wards between January and June 2022 in Iraq. The diagnosis of COVID-19 in each patient was confirmed by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2-positive reverse transcription-PCR.

Results:

The distribution of both genotyping and allele frequencies of IL-12A rs568408 revealed significant differences between patients and control groups (P= 0.006 andP= 0.001, respectively). The IL12A rs568408 AA and AG variant genotypes were associated with a significantly increased risk of COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] = 5.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.13–23.82;P= 0.034) and (OR = 2.39, 95% CI = 1.16–4.94,P= 0.018), respectively, compared with the wild-type GG homozygote.

Conclusion:

These findings indicate that IL12A rs568408 GA/AA variant may contribute to the risk of COVID-19. This study is the first report about the association of IL12A rs568408 with COVID-19.
Synthesis, characterization, and photocatalytic activity of multicomponent CdMoO4/g-C3N4/GO composite
Authors: Duc Hoang Van , Thu Nguyen Thi Anh , Cam Do Thi Ngoc , Luyen Nguyen Dinh , Linh Nguyen Le My , Nhung Nguyen Thi Ai , Nhiem Dao Ngoc , Khieu Dinh Quang
Published: April 2023

CdMoO4/g-C3N4/GO composites were first synthesized by a hydrothermal process for the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light illumination. The findings show that CdMoO4 is highly dispersed onto g-C3N4 and graphene oxide (GO) sheets. The surface area of the composite increased 27–30.5 times that of CdMoO4, and its band gap energy decreased by about 1.26 times. These features significantly improve the photocatalytic activity of the composite in the RhB decomposition reaction under visible light. The RhB degradation efficiency of the CdMoO4/g-C3N4/GO composite is 5.7, 1.36, and 1.65 times that of CdMoO4, CdMoO4/g-C3N4, and CdMoO4/GO composites, respectively. The active species trapping experiments show that the main forms in RhB degradation are •O2– , •OH, and h+. The stability of the photocatalyst is retained even after the 5th reuse. In addition, RhB degradation products were identified with the high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method, and the pathway of photocatalytic degradation was also addressed.
Bounds On $(t,r)$ Broadcast Domination of $n$-Dimensional Grids
Authors: Shlomi Tom
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we study a variant of graph domination known as $(t, r)$
broadcast domination, first defined in Blessing, Insko, Johnson, and Mauretour
in 2015. In this variant, each broadcast provides $t-d$ reception to each
vertex a distance $d < t$ from the broadcast. If $d \ge t$ then no reception is
provided. A vertex is considered dominated if it receives $r$ total reception
from all broadcasts. Our main results provide some upper and lower bounds on
the density of a $(t, r)$ dominating pattern of an infinite grid, as well as
methods of computing them. Also, when $r \ge 2$ we describe a family of
counterexamples to a generalization of Vizing's Conjecture to $(t,r)$ broadcast
domination.