bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Artificial Intelligence With Blockchain Reduce the Costs of the Financial Sector?
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Khan Aurangzeb , Rehman Abdul , Farooq Sumair , Mehboob Asim , Abdali Ahmad Shah , Ahmad Bilal
Published: October 2024

This chapter looks into does artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology (BT) can save costs in finance assiduity? It seeks to identify inefficiencies, probe the functions of AI and blockchain, and give styles for perpetration. Data are collected from workers in the fiscal sector, which is also anatomized using SPSS. The chapter's results show that there are numerous openings to ameliorate effectiveness, particularly in the areas of credit underwriting, loan servicing, and title insurance. still, the relinquishment of AI and DT depends on prostrating artistic, legal, and data norms obstacles. In the end, combining AI and BT may affect in fiscal sector cost reductions and service advancements, significantly impacting organizational procedures, technology, and policy.
Alzando la Voz Latinx women
Authors: Garcia Mariana , Salter Nicholas P. , Martinez Emily
Published: October 2024

Although compromising the largest racioethnic minority population, the experiences of Latinx women employees has remained largely unexplored. The purpose of this article is to introduce the Latinx women Critical Theory framework to organizational researchers and discuss potential avenues of expansion in the field. The article highlights various studies conducted in the legal and education fields that have used the Latinx women Critical Theory framework. In addition, research on the perceptions of the Latinx women community have been synthesized. This helps us to understand the current research state and identify future research gaps. We believe that Latinx women Critical Theory can be used in organizational settings as a guide for researchers to understand and interpret the Latinx women workplace experience. Due to the scant amount of research on this population, the proposed framework can be used as a starting point for developing a research agenda on this topic.
Community Connectedness as a Tool for Black Women to Attain Work-Life Balance in Academia
Authors: Culver Jennifer D. , Martin Claire , Smith Alexanderia T. , George Rebecca A. , Cables Ericka
Published: October 2024

Historically, the narratives of Black women faculty in the academy have been ones of consistent treacherous journeys marked by othering, exclusion, exploitation of labor, discrimination, and, at times, even violence. Being a faculty member in the ivory tower would not be considered one of the “Black jobs” in the eyes of racist politicians and policymakers in American society. These historical unjust practices have one common goal, to prevent upward mobility within the Black community. Navigating these unsafe terrains of Academia while attending to personal obligations can feel impossible for Black women faculty. Nonetheless, Black women continue to show their resilience in how they have come to create safe communities to survive and thrive. In this chapter, five Black women faculty share insights on lessons learned during their journey as professors in the academe and strategies for overcoming challenges and succeeding in attaining work-life balance.
Investigating the Unique Challenges Women of Color Face in Integrating Work-Life Balance
Authors: Eronmwon Eghosa Yvonne , Myers Alyson K. , Adebiyi Mayowa
Published: October 2024

Current societal structures constantly oppress Black people and women. Black women are faced with a double dose of oppression; hence the term “misogynoir”. At work, they are often working twice as hard to prove to prove themselves. At home they are expected to be the perfect caregiver. It goes without saying that all this leaves little time for self-care. Their needs often go ignored by themselves and those around them. Where do THEY fit in this constant maelstrom of real and /or perceived responsibilities? How do they renew their sense of mental, physical and spiritual wellness? This chapter seeks to investigate the unique challenges Black women face in achieving a healthy work-life balance and discuss strategies that are being employed by women of color in various professional spheres. Self-care looks different to everyone. What works for one person may not necessarily work for another. This chapter will discuss different strategies and hopefully readers will find those that resonate with them and embark on the journey to thriving at work while practicing radical self-care.
Navigating the Continuum
Authors: Nelson Juliette , Pierre Manouchka
Published: October 2024

This chapter discusses the alignments of Black girls' experiences in K-12 and Black women leaders in international education. Qualitative storytelling, in conjunction with literature, case studies, and other scenarios, contextualizes the continuum from the classroom to being an international education leader from the lenses of misogynoir, intersectionality, and pet to threat. The authors center these stories to amplify and humanize the challenges that Black girls and Black women international education leaders face, the impacts, and recommendations for education leaders and human capital practitioners to invoke meaningful change, informing healthier working and learning environments.
Workplace Experiences of Immigrant Women and Strategies for Overcoming Barriers
Authors: Sachdev Aditi Rabindra
Published: October 2024

Immigrant women significantly shape economic and societal landscapes in both origin and destination countries, comprising nearly half of the world's international immigrants and a substantial portion of the labor force. Their contributions enrich host countries through valuable skills, workforce participation, and cultural exchange, while also supporting their home countries via remittances. However, they face considerable workplace challenges, including wage disparities, job insecurity, and discrimination, exacerbated by gender and immigration status. Despite their critical roles, systemic issues such as undervaluation of their work and restrictive policies hinder their professional advancement. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of their multifaceted experiences and targeted strategies to foster inclusive and equitable workplaces. This chapter aims to explore these dynamics and propose actionable solutions to enhance the professional lives of immigrant women.
Opportunities for Green Entrepreneurship
Authors: Mehta Arvinder Kour , Wadhwa Garima , Shukla Rakhi , Chandel Pankaj Singh , Selvakumar P.
Published: October 2024

This integration involves adopting practices that reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower emissions. Green entrepreneurs often focus on sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, eco-friendly products, and waste management. By pioneering solutions in these areas, they contribute to mitigating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and promoting a circular economy. Companies that prioritize sustainability can differentiate themselves in a crowded market, attract a loyal customer base, and achieve competitive advantages. For green entrepreneurs, these policies provide not only financial incentives but also a framework within which they can operate, innovate, and grow. Moreover, international agreements and commitments to climate action, such as the Paris Agreement, further emphasize the global commitment to sustainability and create a favorable environment for green business ventures.
Opportunities and Initiatives of an Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Model and Perspectives for Startups and Failures
Authors: Vargas-Hernandez José G. , Gonzàlez-Àvila Francisco J. , Vargas-Gonzàlez Omar C.
Published: October 2024

This paper is aimed to analyze the opportunities and initiatives of an entrepreneurship ecosystem model and perspectives for startups and failures. It is assumed that the entrepreneurship ecosystem is the result of opportunities and initiatives leading to a model and perspectives for the development of startups, despite de failures. The method employed is the meta-analysis and reflective approach based on the literature review on the themes. It is concluded that the startups result the of the opportunities and initiatives of an entrepreneurship ecosystem model and perspectives.
Green Human Talent Development Management
Authors: Vargas-Hernandez José G. , González Francisco Javier , Vargas-Gonzàlez Omar C.
Published: October 2024

This study aims to analyze the implications of green knowledge and technology in organizational green innovation and green human talent development management. The analysis is supported by the assumption that green sharing knowledge and technology is basic to organizational green innovation and green human talent development areas organizational practices, operations, and activities. The methods employed are based on the analytical-reflective and descriptive supported with the review of theoretical and empirical literature. The analysis concludes that green knowledge sharing is relevant to create and develop the green technology with positive implications for organizational green innovation and green human talent development management in organizations. Keywords: Organizational green innovation, green knowledge, green technology, green human taken.
Strategic Vision, Environmental Dimension of CSR, and Green Innovation
Authors: Najeh Hajer
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the nature of the relationship between the strategic vision of entrepreneurs, the environmental dimension of CSR, and technological innovation. Despite its importance, this relationship remains poorly studied. In order to contribute to deepening the literature in strategic management, we develop a theoretical framework that highlights coherence between the social commitment of companies and the adopted innovation policy. The contribution of this study is based on both a qualitative approach and an abductive demarche to explain the relationship between innovation and CSR. Accordingly, a research on two industrial Tunisian SME, was realized. Results show a bidirectional relationship between CSR and green innovation. On the one hand, a strategic CSR generates innovations, which create social, environmental and economic performance. On the other hand, a strengthening of the R&D effort is favored by the economic performance of innovations.
Seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus 2 infection among commercial sex workers in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Authors: Nakkawita WMID , Mananwatta S , Galagoda GCS
Published: October 2024

Background: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV2) causes genital herpes, an incurable, lifelong sexually transmitted infection (STI). This study was conducted to describe the seroprevalence and associated factors of HSV2 infection in a cohort of Female Sex Workers (FSWs).
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 136 FSWs who attended the central STD Clinic, in Colombo. They were assessed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire followed by serum sampling. Serum samples were tested for HSV2 IgG using an enzyme immunoassay specific for glycoprotein gG2 of HSV2.
Results: HSV2 seroprevalence of FSW was 66.9% (91/136) of which only 14.3% (13/91) reported a history of genital infection. Age ≥35 years (OR 3.35, 95%CI 1.54-7.31, p=0.002), education ≥ grade 5 (OR 8.35, 95%CI 13.1- 64.7, p<0.001), lifetime sexual partners ≥ 200 (OR 5.33, 95% CI 2.3-12.36), p<0.001), duration of sex work ≥1 year (OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.09-9.65, p<0.001) and history of STI (OR 4.52, 95% CI 1.9-10.78, p<0.001) were statistically significant risk factors for high HSV2 prevalence. Consistent condom use by commercial partners in the last 3 months was not a significant protective factor in preventing HSV2 infection (OR 0.44, 95% CI 0.15-1.26, p = 0.12) in this cohort.
Conclusions: The seroprevalence of HSV2 is high in this population and most of them did not report any genital infection. Multiple risk factors for higher prevalence were observed. Findings support the need for regular surveillance, monitoring of HSV-2 infection in high-risk populations, and expanding awareness of HSV-2 infection in the country.
First record of Pancratium maritimum L. (Amaryllidaceae) for the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Italy
Authors: Davanzo Manuela , Cuccurullo Giosuè , Zwirner Elena , Scridel Davide
Published: October 2024

We report the first observation of the psammophyte plant species Pancratium maritimum L. (Amaryllidaceae) in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, Italy. Four adult individuals were observed in spring 2023 on the residual dunes of Lignano Sabbiadoro municipality behind a beach resort. Although we lack genetic analysis to determine its provenance, considering the absence of locally cultivated individuals and the expansion of the species in the neighboring region of Veneto, with individuals located ca. 20 km from this reported observation, we believe that its arrival in Friuli Venezia Giulia should be considered a spontaneous spread of a new native species for the region. This finding indicates that the species now has a distribution extending along the entire Italian coastline.
A Study on Tapentadol Misuse and Abuse among Heroin Users Attending a Deaddiction Center in Kashmir
Authors: Zahoor Marya , Bhat Fazle Roub , Khan Ubaid Ali , Rather Yasir Hassan
Published: October 2024

Background:

Tapentadol is a powerful opioid receptor agonist and a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, making it a centrally acting analgesic. In India, where the government is trying to combat an ongoing opioid crisis, the lack of scheduling of tapentadol creates an easy opportunity for its misuse. We aim to analyze the demographic and clinical characteristics of heroin users who also abuse tapentadol concurrently through our cross-sectional study done at the drug-deaddiction center situated at the community center of SMHS Hospital, Srinagar, Kashmir.

Material and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study done at the Community Centre of SMHS hospital Srinagar, which houses the drug deaddiction centre run by the Psychiatry Department of GMC(Government Medical College) Srinagar. From 1st June 2023 until 30th November 2023, we gathered data for our investigation. After gaining informed consent, all the first-time heroin-dependent patients at the deaddiction facility who admitted to using tapentadol were included in the study. Patients’ age, sex, marital status, family composition, and level of education were analysed in accordance with a predefined proforma. In addition, the modified Kuppuswamy scale was used to categorise patients based on their socioeconomic status. Parameters such as the pattern of tapentadol use, the route of heroin use, and the comparison of the psychoactive effects of tapentadol and heroin were recorded using a proforma to create a clinical profile of such patients.

Results:

Our sample comprised 100 participants. The prevalence of tapentadol abuse among heroin users in our study came out to be 16%. The average age of our study participants was 25.11 ± 2.99 years. The vast majority of our patients were male (97%). The vast majority (58%) of our participants were from lower socioeconomic status. Ninety-eight percent of our subjects used oral tapentadol while there were 2 (2%) instances of intravenous tapentadol use. The majority of participants used the “Tapal” brand (60%). Tapentadol was mainly obtained either through a chemist’s shop (35%) (with or without a prescription) or through a friend (37%). Half of the subjects (50%) obtained tapentadol for the purpose of managing heroin withdrawal. Thirty-five percent of participants used tapentadol in a dependent manner, while the remaining 65% either misused or abused the drug.

Conclusion:

The continued heroin usage crisis, lenient tapentadol procurement regulations, and the use of nonevidence-based drugs for the treatment of opioid use disorder all contribute to the problem of tapentadol abuse in our region.
Assessing Chat Generative Pre-training Transformer’s Proficiency in Identifying, Diagnosing, and Managing Orthopedic Fractures
Authors: Saad Ahmed , Rahij Hasan , Durgaprasad Bhamidipaty Kanaka , Iyengar Karthikeyan. P. , Botchu Rajesh
Published: October 2024

Background:

The exploration of Chat generative pre-training transformer’s (GPT’s) applications in medicine is gaining momentum, with artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, showing promise in enhancing orthopedic care. ChatGPT can assist clinicians by providing relevant information based on patient symptoms, medical history, and radiological findings, aiding in differential diagnosis, and suggesting appropriate imaging modalities. This study focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of ChatGPT-4 in diagnosing and managing common orthopedic fractures.

Methods:

This study involved inputting a diverse set of fracture images into the ChatGPT-4 model. The process commenced by prompting ChatGPT with four questions: “What does the radiograph show?” The second prompt instructed ChatGPT with the actual diagnosis, followed by inquiries on how a clinician should manage the condition and potential complications. All generated responses underwent grading by two authors (musculoskeletal radiologist and orthopedic trainee), utilizing a 5-point Likert scale. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis measurements were performed to assess inter-rater reliability. Descriptive statistical analysis was then employed to provide a comprehensive summary of the study’s findings.

Results:

ChatGPT demonstrated limitations in identifying diagnoses based on inputted X-ray images. However, it excelled in providing comprehensive information about fracture management and potential complications. There was excellent interobserver reliability with a kappa of 0.9.

Conclusion:

Our study underscores the utility of ChatGPT as a valuable tool for aiding in the management of common fractures, offering a comprehensive overview of diagnosis, management, and potential complications. The findings highlight its potential role as a supplementary resource in orthopedic practice.
Study on the effect of γδ T cells expanded in vitro to kill hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Yang Tianhua , Zhang Lu , He Shan , Fan Honglian , Li Baiqing , Li Zhenghong
Published: October 2024

Background:

γδ T cells for tumor cell immunotherapy has recently become a hot topic.

Objective:

To investigate the stimulation of expanded γδ T cells in vitro to kill liver cancer cells and its mechanism, and in vivo validation.

Methods:

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated and amplified. The proportion of γδ T cells in T cells was determined using flow cytometry. γδ T cells were selected as effector cells, and HepG2 cells as target cells in the cytotoxicity experiment. NKG2D blocker was used to block effector cells from identifying target cells, and PD98059 was used to block intracellular signaling pathways. The nude mice tumor model was established in two batches, the tumor growth curve was drawn, and the tumor formation effect was tested using small animal imager to verify the killing effect of γδ T cells.

Results:

The γδ T cells in the three experimental groups exhibited a large amount of amplification (P < 0.01). In the killing experiment, the killing rate of γδ T cells stimulated by zoledronate (ZOL) in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the HDMAPP group and the Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra strain (Mtb-Hag) group (P < 0.05). The blocking effect of PD98059 is stronger than that of the NKG2D blocker (P < 0.05). Among them, in the HDMAPP group, when the target ratio was 40:1, the NKG2D blocker exhibited a significant blocking effect (P < 0.05). Alternatively, in the ZOL group, when the effect ratio was 10:1, the effector cells were blocked significantly after treatment using PD98059 (P < 0.05). In vivo experiments verified the killing effect of γδ T cells. According to the tumor growth curve, there was a difference between the experimental and control groups after cell treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

ZOL has high amplification efficiency and a positive effect on killing tumor cells.
Screening for important risk factors for cancer-specific mortality in patients with localized clear cell renal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Qiang , Li Xiaoli , Xu Junnan , Liu Zhijia , Wang Yunpeng , Chen Changqing
Published: October 2024

Aim:

To study the risk factors for cancer-specific mortality (CSM) among patients with localized clear cell renal carcinoma (LCCRC) in the Chinese population.

Methods:

The clinical data of 1,376 LCCRC patients were postoperatively collected to analyze the correlations between CSM and multiple factors using Cox regression analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed as per the screened risk factors to identify factors with optimal criticality judgment values, which were then used as the scoring standard for the stratification evaluation of LCCRC prognosis.

Results:

The CSM rate was 5.6% (77/1,376 cases) and the median follow-up duration was 78.1 (60–105) months. Cox analysis revealed that age, tumor diameter, and nuclear grade were associated with CSM. The optimal criticality judgment values for age and tumor diameter using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were 53 years and 5.8 cm, respectively. LCCRC prognosis divided into low-risk (≤ 2 points), intermediate-risk (3–4 points), and high-risk (5 points) showed CSM rates of 3.8%, 13.8%, and 58.3%, respectively, among patients with more than 5 years of follow-up.

Conclusions:

Age, tumor diameter, and nuclear grade were important risk factors for CSM in LCCRC patients. The scoring criteria including these three risk factors may be an important supplement to the prognostic model of LCCRC in the Chinese population.
Evaluation of Preoperative Low-flow Areas in STA-MCA Bypass Surgery Using Vascular Fusion Map Image
Authors: Tanaka Riki , Jankovic Dragan , Katayama Tomoko , Okubo Mai , Sasaki Kento , Tamura Takamitsu , Yamada Yasuhiro , Komatsu Fuminari , Kato Yoko
Published: October 2024

Background:

The superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass surgery requires an anastomosis of the STA to an MCA with diminished blood flow. However, identifying the precise location of the MCA with reduced flow preoperatively is challenging as it often remains nonvisualized. To address this issue, we developed a novel technique, the area target bypass (ATB) method, to infer the location of the responsible vessel for low-flow areas.

Objective:

The cornerstone of the ATB method lies in the utilization of the vascular fusion map (VFM). The VFM integrates 3D perfusion and 3D vascular images, enabling simultaneous evaluation of cerebral surface vessels and regions with reduced blood flow. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of the STA-MCA bypass surgery adopting the ATB method.

Methods:

Between August 2022 and March 2023, we conducted eight STA-MCA bypass surgeries using the ATB method. For each case, the VFM was generated using the MTT and DLY parameters, and blood flow improvement was evaluated based on the VFM score, determined by an average score from seven experts.

Results:

In all cases, the target vessel was identified either preoperatively or during craniotomy, with postoperative patency of the STA-MCA bypass confirmed. Out of the eight cases, seven demonstrated improved blood flow with a VFM score exceeding 1. No complications were reported.

Conclusion:

The introduction of the ATB method has proven its potential in accurately pinpointing optimal anastomosis sites.
Clinical Characteristics of Double Seropositive Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Lalwani Chirag S. , Movva Hamsini , Kannoth Sudheeran , Nambiar Vivek , Gopinath Siby , Anandakuttan Anandkumar , Umesh Saraf U. , Narayanan Sreelakshmi , Jose Bijoy , Mathai Annamma , Leelamani Jyothi V.
Published: October 2024

Double seropositive myasthenia gravis (DSP-MG) has antibodies positive to both acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody and muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibody. This study aims to delineate the clinical phenotype of DSP-MG and assess the histopathological correlation with thymoma. This is a retrospective case series conducted at a tertiary care hospital in South India between February 2018 and October 2021. We had 13 DSP-MG patients (seven females, mean age 60.77+/-14.24). The presentation was generalized in nine patients, bulbar in three, and ocular in one patient. Multi-detector computed tomography done in 11 patients showed thymoma in five and thymic hyperplasia in one. Four patients underwent thymectomy; histopathology showed Type A, B2 (n = 2), and AB thymomas. All 13 patients improved with anticholinesterases. Nine patients were administered immunosuppressants, three patients were given intravenous immunoglobulin, and a single patient underwent plasmapheresis. Our study shows that DSP-MG is more similar to the clinical phenotype of AChR-MG.
Treatment of Galen Vein Arteriovenous Malformation with Gamma Knife Surgery
Authors: Kuzucu Pelin , Sözer Alperen , Börcek Alp Özgün
Published: October 2024

The vein of Galen arteriovenous malformation is a rare abnormality of the fetal cerebral vascular system. It is caused by the persistence of a cerebral arteriovenous fistula of the median prosencephalic vein. Due to the high mortality rate of the surgical option in its treatment, the approach with embolization and radiosurgery combinations continues to be popular. We present a 3-year-old child patient who was accidentally detected by vein of Galen malformations during a screening for headache complaints with known heart disease. In the treatment of this patient, we performed radiosurgery therapy alone, rather than a combination. Our case is the third case of a and the youngest example child who was treated with only radiosurgery without embolization. Gamma knife therapy, which is a more convenient and effective treatment plan, is a method that can be safely used instead of open surgery with a high mortality rate.
Correlation of Intravesical Prostatic Protrusion with Severity of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Men With Symptomatic Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla Enugu
Authors: Iwenofu Chukwunonso Anthony , Amu Okwudili Calistus , Affusim Emmanuel Azubuike , Nwachukwu Chukwunonso Daniel , Anyimba Solomon Kenechukwu
Published: October 2024

Background:

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is one of the causes of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men above 50 years of age. It is known that the severity of LUTS (degree of bladder outlet obstruction) does not correlate with the size of the prostate gland in BPH. Severity of LUTS due to BPH can be assessed using the internationally validated international prostate symptom score (IPSS). There are some concerns that the IPSS is subjective and may pose some challenges to the poorly educated patients in our environment during administration. Intravesical prostatic protrusion may be an objective index of degree of bladder outlet obstruction in men with BPH measured using abdominopelvic ultrasound. So the objective of this study is to evaluate for any correlation between IPP and IPSS in men with symptomatic BPH.

Objective:

The objective of the study is to assess the correlation between IPP and IPSS.

Patients and Methods:

A hospital based cross-sectional study of new patients with symptomatic LUTS of BPH, who presented to the Urology clinics of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Ituku-Ozalla Enugu. Ethical approval was obtained from the ethical committee of the hospital and informed consent from patients. After evaluation (including IPSS, PSA, and FBC, S/E/Ur/Cr, Urinalysis and M/C/S), participants had abdominopelvic ultrasonography measurement of IPP and midline sagittal image of the prostate (at bladder Volume of > 100mls) using Prosound model SSD 3500 with an abdominal probe frequency of 3.5MHz (Versana Essentials) IPP was divided into three grades (Grade I: 0-4.9mm; Grade II: 5.0-9.9mm; Grade III: 10.0mm and above). Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 20 (IBM, SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA). The Pearson correlation was used to assess correlation where necessary. P- value <0.005 was considered significant.

Results:

Two hundred and seventy four men with a mean age of 64.76+/- 9.04 years were included in the study. Most of the participants had highest educational level of primary education 145 (52.9 %). The average IPSS, IPP, PSA Total were 15.90+/- 4.74 SD, 9.49+/- 2.98 SD, 6.13+/- 1.83 respectively. There is significant positive correlation between IPP and IPSS (r = 0.451; P < 0.001), and a statistically significant negative correlation between IPP, IPSS (r = - 0.742; P < 0.001), (r = - 0.500; P < 0.001) respectively and Qmax.

Conclusion:

There was a significant positive correlation between IPP and IPSS. Intravesical prostatic protrusion may be used to help assess severity of lower urinary tract symptoms in men with BPH.
Prescription, Dispensing, and Rational Medicine Use in a Nigerian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Ogaji Daprim Samuel , Owhondah King Samuel , Zite Zorte
Published: October 2024

Background:

Rational use of medicine in a teaching hospital is critical for effective and efficient patient care. This study assessed prescription, dispensing, and rational medicine in a Nigerian tertiary care facility.

Materials and Method:

This was an analytic cross-sectional study with data collected using validated tools underpinned by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the International Network for the Rational Use of Drugs (INRUD) core indicators for prescription, patient care, and facility. A cluster sample of 10 specialist clinics and servicing pharmacies were selected. Simple random sampling was deployed to retrieve 600 medicine prescriptions in the pharmacies over a six-month period (June 1, 2021–November 30, 2021). Patient care indicators were assessed using 330 patient encounters, and 48 prescribers across the 10 clinics were randomly selected for assessing factors influencing prescribing practices. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses were conducted with SPSS version 25, and findings were compared with WHO/INRUD recommendations.

Results:

The mean medicine count per visit was 3.4 ± 1.9 with 40.2% and 24.8% of prescriptions containing antibiotics and injections, respectively. Nonproprietary prescriptions were 43.6% and 97.1% of medicines prescribed were contained the essential medicines list (EML). The mean times spent were 17.5 ± 8.0 and 7.7 ± 3.8 min with prescribers and dispensers, respectively. Most (99.8%) of the dispensed medicines were labeled properly while 82% of patients knew the regimen. Most (93.3%) tracer medicines were in the pharmacies, but no clinic had copies of the EML. Significant differences in prescription and patient care indicators were reported across specialty units.

Conclusion:

Gaps exist in medicine prescription and dispensing. The preponderance of brand prescription, polypharmacy, and antibiotic prescription calls for implementation of extant policies and guidelines on the use of medicines as well as training and monitoring on rational medicine use among prescribers and dispensers in the teaching hospital.
Perception of Health Professionals on the National Health Act, 2014, in University College Hospital, Ibadan
Authors: Mashor Mbwas Isaac , Akinyemi Oluwaseun Oladapo , Ijoma Sandra Ifynneke , Longwap Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: October 2024

Background:

The National Health Bill was the most debated bill from the legislative arm of government since 1999 and yet, many health professionals are largely unaware of its details. There had been insufficient health legislation establishing a unified national health system in Nigeria, such as provided for in the National Health Act (NHA), 2014, leading to duplication of functions and laws. Health professionals, being key policy actors and at the front line of healthcare, easily notice the impact of policies set by actors in the health-care system. Therefore, their knowledge and perception of the NHA as legitimate, will compel obedience with the provisions of the act, and also create a basis for stronger advocacy for its implementation for the overall strengthening of the health-care system that the act intends to provide a legal framework for.

Methodology:

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study to assess the perception of health professionals at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, on the NHA, 2014. Participants were selected by a multistage (stratified and then systematic) random sampling technique. Data were collected quantitatively using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. The quantitative data were entered and analysed using IBM SPSS version 23.

Results:

Awareness of the respondents about the Act was good, with up to 75% of respondents being aware of the existence of the NHA Act. However, the knowledge of the content of the Act was poor among all the cadres of health professionals. The differences in awareness among the different cadres of health professionals were statistically significant with the doctors being more aware and the nurses least aware, P = 0.001. The majority of health professionals perceive that the NHA is sufficient to regulate health care and set the appropriate standards in Nigeria. However, the health-care professionals also perceive that Nigerian government is incapable of diligently implementing the provisions of the Act.

Conclusion:

There is a need for sustained remedial action by health-care professional bodies, organised media, and relevant government ministries and agencies, to ensure that stakeholders, including health professionals, are abreast with the provisions of the NHA, through prioritising health laws as key areas in undergraduate school curricula and continuing medical education on health laws for the practicing health professionals. Good knowledge of the Act will increase the advocacy efforts by the health professionals and other stakeholders towards the implementation of the provisions of the Act by the government and other relevant stakeholders. There is also a need for the government to show more commitment in publicising its effort at the implementation of the Act to improve the poor perception by the health professionals on the government’s ability to implement the provisions of the Act, as seen in this study.
Knowledge and Practice of Infection Prevention and Control among Healthcare Workers in Secondary Healthcare Facilities in Southern Cross River State Nigeria
Authors: Oluwafemi Olusola Festus , Jonathan Okon Aniekanabasi , Nsa Ekpenyong Bernadine , Michael Archibong Anietie , Msoo Asen Joseph
Published: October 2024

Background:

Globally, millions of people are affected annually by health-care-associated infections, many of which could be avoided by strict compliance with standard infection prevention and control (IPC) protocols.

Aim:

This study assessed the knowledge and practice of IPC among secondary health-care workers (HCWs) in Southern Cross River State.

Materials and methods:

A structured questionnaire was used in conjunction with a descriptive cross-sectional design to collect data from 336 health-care personnel. IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 was used to analyse the generated data.

Results:

The results show that 58% of the respondents had a high knowledge level of IPC and 52.4% exhibited a high level of standard IPC practice. About 53% reported that IPC protocols were available in their facility. No association was found between sociodemographic characteristics of HCWs and their practice of standard IPC practice except for sex. A significant association was found between sex and level of IPC practice (P = 0.015), the male HCWs had higher practice of IPC than their female counterparts. Although no association was found between knowledge and practice of IPC among the HCWs, the level of practice was, however, higher among the doctors than the nurses who had a higher level of knowledge on IPC. A logistic regression analysis further showed that only sex was significant (P = 0.021) in influencing a high level of IPC practice among the HCWs in this study.

Conclusion:

It is, therefore, imperative for health-care facility leadership to organise training and retraining programs on IPC to improve knowledge and compliance among HCWs, especially in the face of emerging infectious diseases in Nigeria.
Multilevel analysis of the central–peripheral–target organ pathway: contributing to recovery after peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Song Xizi , Li Ruixin , Chu Xiaolei , Li Qi , Li Ruihua , Li Qingwen , Tong Kai-Yu , Gu Xiaosong , Ming Dong
Published: October 2024

Peripheral nerve injury is a common neurological condition that often leads to severe functional limitations and disabilities. Research on the pathogenesis of peripheral nerve injury has focused on pathological changes at individual injury sites, neglecting multilevel pathological analysis of the overall nervous system and target organs. This has led to restrictions on current therapeutic approaches. In this paper, we first summarize the potential mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury from a holistic perspective, covering the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system, and target organs. After peripheral nerve injury, the cortical plasticity of the brain is altered due to damage to and regeneration of peripheral nerves; changes such as neuronal apoptosis and axonal demyelination occur in the spinal cord. The nerve will undergo axonal regeneration, activation of Schwann cells, inflammatory response, and vascular system regeneration at the injury site. Corresponding damage to target organs can occur, including skeletal muscle atrophy and sensory receptor disruption. We then provide a brief review of the research advances in therapeutic approaches to peripheral nerve injury. The main current treatments are conducted passively and include physical factor rehabilitation, pharmacological treatments, cell-based therapies, and physical exercise. However, most treatments only partially address the problem and cannot complete the systematic recovery of the entire central nervous system–peripheral nervous system–target organ pathway. Therefore, we should further explore multilevel treatment options that produce effective, long-lasting results, perhaps requiring a combination of passive (traditional) and active (novel) treatment methods to stimulate rehabilitation at the central–peripheral–target organ levels to achieve better functional recovery.
Time Motion Study of Tuberculosis Patients Attending a Hospital in an Indian State
Authors: Toppo Manju , Mehta Gursharan S. , Pilkhwal Rashmi
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

To analyse the time taken in availing various services by a patient of cardinal symptoms of Tuberculosis in TB Hospital, Bhopal, India and to determine the satisfaction of patients regarding care.

Methods:

This is a time–motion observational study of patients who came with symptoms of TB. A sample of 210 was calculated using Cochran’s formula.

Results:

Amongst the 210 patients studied, the majority were males, i.e. 123 (58.6%). A striking feature was found during this study that reports of sputum were given 2–5 days after collection.

Conclusion:

This busy hospital dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare pertaining to TB had multiple patient queues, long clinical visits and short clinical encounters. Although the patients were satisfied with the clinical consultations from the doctors, they found difficulty in availing laboratory and X-ray services.
Antiapoptotic and antinociceptive effects of Achillea millefolium L. aqueous extract in rats with experimental painful diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Moradi Mojtaba , Hassanshahi Jalal , Rahmani Mohammad Reza , Shamsizadeh Ali , Kaeidi Ayat
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose:

Neuropathy is one of the common complications of diabetes mellitus. This study aimed to determine the analgesic and antiapoptotic effects of the aqueous extract of Achillea millefolium L. (Ach) in rats with experimental painful diabetic neuropathy by behavioral and molecular procedures.

Experimental approach:

Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups including control, diabetes + saline, and diabetes + Ach extract (doses of 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg/day for 3 weeks, orally). A tail-flick test was performed to assess the pain threshold in different groups. Western blotting test was used to evaluate the apoptotic (Bax, Bcl2, cleaved caspase-3, and cytochrome-c) and inflammatory (TNF-α and NF-kB) protein factors in the lumbar portion of the spinal cord tissue. Also, commercial assay kits were used to evaluate oxidative stress factors (MDA, GPx, and SOD enzyme activity) in the lumbar portion of the spinal cord tissue.

Findings/Results:

Results showed that administering Ach extract at the doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg/day significantly increased the nociception threshold in treated diabetic animals compared to untreated diabetic animals. Moreover, the treatment of diabetic animals with Ach extract (300 and 600 mg/kg/day) significantly reduced the oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis biochemical indicators in the lumbar spinal cord tissue compared to the untreated diabetic group.

Conclusion and implications:

The findings showed that Ach extract has neuroprotective and anti-nociceptive effects in rats with diabetic neuropathy. The effects can be due to the inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the spinal cord tissue.
Efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of recombinant insulin aspart (BioGenomics Limited) and NovoRapid® (Novo Nordisk) in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, open-label, multicenter, phase-3 study
Authors: Dongre Sneha A. , Kulkarni Gauri A. , Mishra Akshay , Deshmane Rutuja B. , Sonar Nameeta , Yashi Kanica , Thapa Damodar , Ghade Nikhil , Kadoo Sachin M. , Krishnan Archana R. , Sonar Sanjay M.
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose:

To compare the efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of recombinant insulin aspart 100 U/mL manufactured by BioGenomics Limited (BGL-ASP) with innovator NovoRapid® in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (T2 DM).

Experimental approach:

This was a multicenter, open-label, randomized, parallel-group study in T2 DM patients, on premix human insulin therapy ± oral anti-diabetics. Besides self-monitored plasma glucose, fasting and post-prandial plasma glucose (FPG and PPG) were tested at baseline, week 12, and week 24. Anti-insulin aspart antibodies measured immunogenicity at 12 and 24 weeks.

Findings/Results:

160 patients out of 320 patients randomly received BGL-ASP and the remaining patients received NovoRapid®. The changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline to weeks 12 and 24 for the BGL-ASP group were -0.8 ± 0.83 and -0.8 ± 0.81, respectively, while for the NovoRapid®group was -0.8 ± 1.01 and -0.9 ± 0.89, respectively. Changes in FPG and PPG were comparable between the treatment groups after 12 weeks and 24 weeks. The incidence of detectable antibodies at baseline, weeks 12, and 24 were comparable between treatment groups. Eighteen (11.3%) patients in the BGL-ASP group and 23 (14.4%) in the NovoRapid®group reported adverse events.

Conclusion and implications:

BGL-ASP and NovoRapid®were comparable and equally effective in lowering HbA1c, FPG, and PPG levels, with similar immunogenicity and safety profiles.
Curcumin and exercise prevent depression via alleviating hippocampus injury and improve depressive-like behaviors in chronically stressed depression rats
Authors: Ahmadi Elaheh , Pourmotabbed Ali , Aghaz Nilofar , Nedaei Seyed Ershad , Veisi Mojgan , Salimi Zahra , Zarei Fatemeh , Jalili Cyrus , Moradpour Farshad , Zeinivand Motahareh
Published: October 2024

Background and purpose:

Depression is a growing public health concern worldwide, characterized by cognitive impairment and structural abnormalities of the hippocampus. Current antidepressant treatment sometimes causes the late onset of results and the much faster occurrence of side effects. For this reason, the interest in new treatment strategies including exercise and natural products such as curcumin has increased to treat depression. The present study investigated the role of curcumin and exercise in improving depressive-like behavior and hippocampal damage induced by mild unpredictable chronic stress in male rats.

Experimental approach:

This study analyzed the effects of curcumin (100 mg/kg/day, P.O for 14 days) and exercise (treadmill running, 45 min/day for 14 days) on immobility behavior (forced swimming test), locomotor activity (open field test), anhedonia (sucrose preference test) and cell survival (Nissl staining) of the hippocampal CA3 region in chronically stressed depression rats.

Findings/Results:

In the current study, curcumin treatment combined with exercise effectively improved immobility behavior, locomotor activity, and increased hippocampal cell survival resulted in preventing the development of hippocampus dysfunction and depressive-like behaviors.

Conclusion and implications:

This study demonstrated a new prospect for treating depression. The current findings give researchers the confidence to continue the investigations on the effects of curcumin accompanied with exercise as a novel therapy for the treatment of depression.
Logarithmically refined Gagliardo–Nirenberg interpolation and application to blow-up exclusion in a singular chemotaxis–consumption system
Authors: Winkler Michael
Published: October 2024

A family of interpolation inequalities is derived, which differ from estimates of classical Gagliardo–Nirenberg type through the appearance of certain logarithmic deviations from standard Lebesgue norms in zero-order expressions. Optimality of the obtained inequalities is shown. A subsequent application reveals that when posed under homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions in smoothly bounded planar domains and with suitably regular initial data, for any choice of

\alpha>0

the Keller–Segel-type migration–consumption system

u_{t} = \Delta (uv^{-\alpha})

,

v_{t} = \Delta v-uv

, admits a global classical solution.
On the cluster of the families of hybrid polynomial kernels in kernel density estimation
Authors: Afere Benson Ade Eniola
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a novel cluster of hybrid polynomial kernel families, designed to achieve significantly lower asymptotic mean integrated squared error compared to traditional kernels. These hybrid kernels are developed by heuristically combining classical polynomial kernels using probability axioms. An in-depth analysis of error propagation within these kernels is conducted, utilizing both simulation experiments and real-life datasets, including the Life Span of Batteries and COVID-19 datasets. The findings consistently demonstrate that the proposed hybrid kernels outperform their classical counterparts in various density estimation tasks across different distribution types and sample sizes. This research highlights the potential of hybrid polynomial kernels to enhance accuracy in density estimation, advocating for their adoption in statistical modelling and analysis.