bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New data on bioacoustics and courtship behaviour in grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Gomphocerinae) from Russia and adjacent countries
Authors: Vedenina Varvara , Sevastianov Nikita , Kovalyova Evgenia
Published: May 2024

The songs of seven grasshopper species of subfamily Gomphocerinae from Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and Kazakhstan were studied. We analysed not only the sound, but also the stridulatory movements of the hind legs to more entirely describe the songs. In Mesasippus kozhevnikovi, Chorthippus macrocerus, and C. hammarstroemi, the legs are moved in a relatively simple pattern; four other species, Myrmeleotettix palpalis, Stenobothrus newskii, C. pullus, and Megaulacobothrus aethalinus demonstrate more complex leg movements. In six of the seven species studied, the courtship songs contain more sound elements than the calling songs. The highest number of courtship sound elements was found in M. palpalis and M. aethalinus. The different parts of a remarkably long stridulatory file in M. aethalinus are thought to participate in the production of different sound elements. The songs in S. newskii are shown for the first time. This species produces sound not only by common stridulation but also by wing beats. A relationship of S. newskii to some other species of the genus Stenobothrus, which are able to crepitate, is discussed. We also analyse the frequency spectra of the songs. A maximum energy of the song power spectra in six species studied lies in ultrasound range (higher than 20 kHz). In only M. aethalinus, the main peaks in the song power spectra lie lower than 20 kHz. The courtship behaviour in M. palpalis, C. macrocerus, and C. hammarstroemi was shown to include conspicuous visual display (movements of antennae, palps and the whole body).
« La nuit vient. » l’amiral d’Argenlieu, la débâcle et la noche oscura
Authors: Vaisset Thomas
Published: May 2024

Cet article entend étudier la manière dont les travaux menés par Louis de la Trinité sur la pensée de saint Jean de la Croix influencent la vision que l’amiral Georges Thierry d’Argenlieu se fait de la campagne de France et de la débâcle. Son appréhension de la situation de la France en juin 1940, empreinte de « la nuit obscure », est en effet l’un des ressorts qui contribuent à expliquer sa décision d’entrer en résistance aux côtés du général de Gaulle, dont il devient par la suite un incontournable Compagnon.
Les nuits de la Saint-Barthélemy
Authors: Foa Jérémie , Clervoy Patrick
Published: May 2024

Alors que l’on parle presque toujours de « la nuit de la Saint-Barthélemy », on n’a peut-être pas suffisamment tiré les conséquences de ce chrononyme singulier et étudié sous cet angle les tueries qui se déroulent aux « petites heures ». Qu’est-ce que l’ambiance nocturne fait aux violences ? Que permet-elle aux tueurs que le plein jour n’autoriserait pas ? Et si l’hécatombe est impitoyable, il faut aussi évoquer les rescapés : c’est la nuit qui rend possible leur fuite. Une réflexion sur ces jeux du visible et de l’invisible.
Ne pas subir la nuit
Authors: Chennaoui Mounir , Sauvet Fabien
Published: May 2024

Les missions de nuit ne sont jamais anodines. La gestion du sommeil et de la récupération des soldats est un enjeu opérationnel majeur pour les armées, plus encore avec la mise en œuvre de systèmes d’armes complexes dans un contexte de conflits de haute intensité, qualifiés par le chef d’état-major des armées de « plus dur, plus long ». Elle est le sujet de recherches et d’innovations menées par le Service de santé, et l’objet de formations dispensées à l’ensemble de la communauté militaire.
Nuits parisiennes
Authors: Dupré La Tour Joseph
Published: May 2024

La nuit, Paris offre un visage bien différent de la ville vibrionnante diurne. Un Paris plus secret, plus violent, plus licencieux, plus désinhibé. Les sapeurs-pompiers veillent sur lui. Habituelles ou dramatiques, variables selon les arrondissements, les saisons, les heures, leurs interventions demandent toujours un engagement sans faille. Une plongée au cœur des nuits parisiennes à travers les yeux de Kévin, jeune pompier du X e arrondissement.
Le temps des monstres
Authors: Martin-Lavaud Virginie
Published: May 2024

La nuit, temps de l’oubli de soi de la conscience, offre un espace qui n’a rien à voir avec la science et la raison. L’accueil de la surprise, de ce qui ne va pas de soi, est souvent synonyme de ce qui n’est pas clairement identifiable, de ce qui angoisse. C’est le temps des monstres qui peuplent les mauvais rêves.
Nuits mystiques
Authors: Ravel Luc
Published: May 2024

Outre le sommeil, nombreuses sont les occupations de la nuit et, parmi elles, la lutte contre les ténèbres ainsi que son « contraire », l’éveil mystique, que, à l’instar des fondateurs des grandes religions, tout un chacun peut connaître sous un ciel planté d’étoiles.
Ce que les neurosciences apportent aux militaires
Authors: de Boisboissel Gérard , Giaume Louise , Trousselard Marion
Published: May 2024

Mieux se connaître pour mieux se gérer, voilà l’objectif fondamental de la recherche sur le fonctionnement du cerveau humain. Cet article se propose de faire un point d’étape sur ce qu’elle peut apporter au monde militaire, comme, par exemple, l’appréhension des biais cognitifs, la gestion des émotions ou l’aptitude à la prise de risque, ce qui permettra d’enrichir l’optimisation des apprentissages, mais aussi de proposer au soldat un panel de méthodes ou d’outils qui lui permettront de s’adapter et de raisonner au mieux.
Educating Nurses in Sleep Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral for Treatment
Authors: Foltz-Ramos Kelly , Dickerson Suzanne S. , Oyer Cheryl A. , Fabry Donna , Dean Grace E.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Poor sleep is an unrecognized problem among cancer survivors that affects quality of life. However, screening for sleep disorders is not routine in cancer care. To fill this gap, a self-paced online training program was designed for RNs to screen patients for sleep disturbance and provide brief intervention or referral for treatment (Sleep-SBIRT).

Method:

A three-phase evaluation pilot study included the following steps: (a) develop an online training program with in situ simulation; (b) implement the program with RNs at a comprehensive cancer center; and (c) evaluate module and quiz completion rates and focus group thematic analysis.

Results:

Of the 22 RNs participating, 17 completed online modules and in situ simulation. The RNs were satisfied (
M
= 4.74/5,
SD
= 0.42) and self-confident (
M
= 4.45/5,
SD
= 0.45) with the learning. Focus group themes were learning new knowledge, learning online effectively, applying learning to in situ simulation, and intending to implement.

Conclusion:

The RNs gained knowledge applying Sleep-SBIRT, but future larger studies are warranted.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs.
2024;55(8):387–392.]
Addressing Nurse Burnout: Moving Beyond the Conversation
Authors: Okoniewski Jessica , Verni Christine
Published: May 2024

Background:

Nurse burnout is a widespread issue in the health care industry, jeopardizing the well-being of both health care professionals and the patients they serve, manifesting as an intense sense of exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal achievement.

Method:

In nursing, professionals are exposed to an extraordinary array of challenges and demands that increase their likelihood of experiencing burnout and resulting mental health issues. Although burnout has been aggressively discussed and studied in recent years, strategies for preventing and mitigating burnout have been underreported.

Results:

This article highlights leading causes of burnout, delves into its alarming prevalence, and underscores the critical need for comprehensive strategies to address and prevent it.

Conclusion:

This article highlights several initiatives established by a resilience program at a college of nursing that can be implemented within health care systems to directly address both individual and organizational burnout.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs.
2024;55(8):407–412.]
A Treatment-at-Home Pilot: Barriers to Home Cancer Care
Authors: Daly Bobby , Huang Jennie , Maiorano Jane , Lee-Teh Melissa , Gilroy Cheryl , Duck Elaine , Ackerman Jill , Rodriguez Elizabeth , Jennifer Tota , Reidy-Lagunes Diane
Published: May 2024

In Brief

During the COVID-19 public health emergency, patients with cancer faced significant challenges presenting for their in-clinic visits. In-home administration of intramuscular and subcutaneous therapies provided an opportunity to deliver antineoplastic therapy while lowering infection risk. This quality improvement study of adult patients with neuroendocrine and breast cancers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center was conducted from February 16, 2022, to October 14, 2022, and involved nurses delivering outpatient pharmacy-dispensed in-home intramuscular or subcutaneous treatments. The study concluded that while home administration of antineoplastic therapies was safe and patient-centric, administrative barriers—primarily pharmacy benefit denial—prevented the study from achieving its primary end point. As cancer care evolves, there should be a focus on regulatory changes that minimize financial and time toxicity and allow for patient convenience.
Institute for Comprehensive Cancer Care Services: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Will Pay for Patient Navigation—Now What?
Authors: Pratt-Chapman Mandi L. , Rocque Gabrielle , McMahon Julie , Patel Manali , Carter Taneal , Pena Nancy , Kushalnagar Poorna , Boyd Lexi , Sherin Reesa J. , Quiring Jessica , Mena Zarek , Burhansstipanov Linda , Dizon Don S. , Lambert Clara , Cykert Samuel , Bauman Julie E.
Published: May 2024

In Brief

Following decades of research demonstrating the efficacy of patient navigation on clinical and patient-reported outcomes, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule that pays for patient navigation and navigation-related services effective January 1, 2024. This article reviews the new codes to reimburse for principal illness navigation (PIN) services, social determinants of health (SDOH) assessment, community health integration, and PIN-Peer Support (PIN-PS). A description of the codes, how to use them, who can perform services, and next steps for the field are reviewed.
The Role of Generative AI-Assisted Literature Reviews in Transforming Academic Research
Authors: Vihari Nitin Simha , Kaur Amandeep
Published: May 2024

The chapter explores the transformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies on the traditional process of conducting literature reviews in academic research. Initially, it traces the historical evolution of literature reviews, highlighting their significance in shaping research across various fields. Generative AI technologies have revolutionized literature reviews by automating and enhancing information-gathering and synthesis. This democratizes the literature review process, making it more inclusive and accessible to researchers with limited resources. However, this advancement also brings challenges and ethical considerations regarding academic integrity and the reliability of AI-generated content. The chapter also discusses different types of literature reviews, their methodologies, strengths, and limitations, providing a comprehensive understanding of how generative AI can be integrated into these review types.
Future Trends in AI and Academic Research Writing
Authors: Roy Rupayan , Ashmika R. , Chakraborty Apromita , Sharafat Iqra
Published: May 2024

This comprehensive exploration of the intersection between artificial intelligence (AI) and academic research writing unveils a transformative landscape that promises to redefine scholarly communication. AI-driven tools and applications are revolutionizing various stages of the research writing process, from content generation and literature review to peer review and publication. The chapter provides an overview of key takeaways, challenges, and possibilities in the realm of AI-enhanced research writing.
Healthcare 5.0
Authors: Shanthalakshmi Revathy J. , Mangaiyarkkarasi J.
Published: May 2024

The chapter explores the transformative shift from traditional to integrated healthcare. It delves into technology, patient empowerment, interdisciplinary collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and preventive healthcare. The role of AI in diagnostics and treatment, along with the use of big data for improved outcomes, resource allocation, and disease surveillance, is highlighted. The chapter advocates for a proactive healthcare model, emphasizing early intervention and ethical considerations. It explores virtual reality and augmented reality's potential in medical practices and discusses the impact of telemedicine on accessible and convenient patient care, especially in underserved areas. This concise overview provides insights into the future of integrated medicine in Healthcare 5.0.
Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Vittala K.R. Pundareeka , Arumugam Senthil Kumar , Kumar N. Satish , Tyagi Amit Kumar
Published: May 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern business, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies has emerged as a potent strategy to address various challenges and unlock new opportunities. This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of the integration of AI and blockchain, highlighting its significance and potential implications for businesses across diverse sectors. The synergy between AI and blockchain offers novel solutions for enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency in business operations. AI algorithms enable the automation of complex tasks, data analysis, and decision-making processes, while blockchain provides a decentralized, immutable ledger for secure and transparent data management. By combining these technologies, businesses can streamline processes, reduce costs, mitigate risks, and create new business models. Few key applications of AI-Blockchain integration in modern business include supply chain management, financial services, healthcare, identity verification, and intellectual property protection.
SecureStem Software for Optimized Stem Cell Banking Management
Authors: Yadav Asmita , Thapa Cyrus , Garg Nipun , Verma Om
Published: May 2024

In the current era, fraudulent activities in stem cell banking have risen, exploiting vulnerable patients. Some banks transfer stem cells without transparency. Blockchain tackles this by ensuring secure transactions. A smart contract-driven agent verifies blockchain blocks, boosting transparency. Blockchain digitizes stem cell transactions, ensuring accessible records. This initiative optimizes stem cell supply chain management by tracking specific blocks and their transaction history. The authors can swiftly allocate stem cells to patients, offering timely accessibility and a clear advantage to those in need.
Evaluation of Abnormal Uterine Artery Doppler for Prediction of Pre-Eclampsia Development
Authors: Patil Supriya , Nangare Nitin R. , Kukreja Ispreet Kaur , Saad Khaled
Published: May 2024

Studies conducted in the past have demonstrated that there is a substantial association between preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine growth restriction (IGR) in terms of morbidity and mortality as well. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, hypertension that was caused by pregnancy was a significant factor in the development of the condition. Further investigation revealed that 1,46,320 women were diagnosed with preeclampsia. As a result, the research investigated the prognostic significance of transabdominal DV in the early stages of pregnancy, specifically between 13 and 16 weeks. Therefore, in order to predict preeclampsia and prenatal outcomes in a total of eighty patients, our research utilised pulsed-wave Doppler (PWD) flow velocity waveforms (FVW) from the ascending branch of the UA that was in the closest proximity to the internal os. In preeclampsia, we discovered that 18.18 percent of patients had IUGR, 4.5 percent had IUFD, and 36.66 percent were admitted to the NICU. During the period of time between 13 and 16 weeks, a Doppler investigation of the UA may be of assistance in the early prediction of preeclampsia.
Predicting NFL Point Spreads via Machine Learning
Authors: Brandon Daniel M.
Published: May 2024

This paper describes sports quantitative analysis research which investigates the use of statistics and modern machine learning methods applied to the problem of predicting the point spreads for United States (US) National Football League (NFL) football games. Insights and results are presented for several modern machine learning techniques for both exploratory analysis and predictive analysis. The case study presented here and the results thereof may be quite useful for those involved in the huge global sports betting arena both the gaming industry and the bettors therein. NFL game statistics also provides a rich source of relevant real-world data for the deployment of several modern data science methodologies and is thus a great teaching tool for the university classroom. Since sports gambling has now made its way onto college campuses with a growing number of schools signing million dollar deals with sports books and casinos, the topic of this article is of even more current relevance.
Design and Implementation of an Intelligent Metro Project Investment Decision Support System
Authors: Zhang Qinjian , Zeng Chuanchuan
Published: May 2024

The construction of subway projects involves tight engineering cycles, multiple technical challenges, and complex coordination among various stakeholders. Due to the influence of uncertain factors during the construction process, the investment in subway project construction exhibits non-linear changes over time. Investment decision-making is the process through which the investment entity determines its investment activities. For typical investment entities, project investment decision-making primarily entails analyzing and evaluating proposed engineering projects based on investigation, analysis, and argumentation, ultimately deciding whether to invest. With the widespread application of information technology (IT) across various fields, decision support systems (DSS) have emerged to enhance the decision-making capabilities of enterprise management. This article designs an intelligent subway project investment DSS, leveraging data mining (DM) technology to integrate DSS with a data warehouse (DW).
Research on Removing Image Noise and Distortion in Machine Dial Recognition
Authors: Wang Xiaoyuan , Wang Hongfei , Wang Jianping , Zhao Maoyu , Chen Hui
Published: May 2024

This study aims to address the issues of image noise and distortion in machine dial recognition via initial denoising. A wavelet local threshold denoising method that combines high-frequency wavelet coefficients with wavelet decomposition coefficients in various directions is proposed. This method shows good results on 102 images of car dashboards, aircraft instrument panels, spacecraft displays, and dial instruments on robots. Although a few denoised images exhibit distortion due to intense lighting or heavy contamination, the denoising accuracy for the remaining images is 98.04%, demonstrating substantial practical value. Future research will concentrate on addressing complex image noise and structures.
How Narrative Skills Associate With Peer Relations
Authors: Wang Yiyuan , Yan Rong , Li Miao , Wu Meng , Chen Zihan
Published: May 2024

Narrative skills are essential for children's social development. However, existing research primarily focuses on narratives' impact on children's cognitive abilities, with limited attention given to the relationship between narrative skills and peer interactions. This study aims to explore how oral and written narrative skills are associated with peer relations from a social perspective. 166 Chinese primary school children were randomly assigned to tasks of oral and written narratives, as well as peer nominations. Results indicate that grade 5 students performed significantly better than grade 3 students in both written and oral narrative tasks. Moreover, the level of written narrative proficiency surpassed that of oral skills. Significant interactions were also found among grade level, gender, and narrative modes. Crucially, narrative skills exhibited positive correlations with peer nominations, with stronger correlations seen for written narratives. These findings have important implications for narrative research and language instruction.
Particle Swarm Algorithm for Smart Contract Vulnerability Detection Based on Semantic Web
Authors: Feng Tao , Cui Yuyang
Published: May 2024

In recent years, smart contracts have risen rapidly in the blockchain field, but security issues have also become increasingly prominent. Due to the lack of unified evaluation standards, the security analysis of smart contracts mainly relies on complex and not easily scalable expert rules. To address these issues, we employ slicing techniques to reduce the interference of extraneous code on the detection process, apply normalisation techniques to eliminate the differences between different compiler versions and use particle swarm optimisation algorithms to determine the similarity between contracts, thus improving the accuracy and efficiency of detection. In addition, we combine a variety of features such as static analysis, dynamic analysis and symbolic execution to gain a more comprehensive understanding of contract characteristics and behaviours for more accurate vulnerability identification. Experimental results show that the scheme significantly improves the detection capability and provides a new solution for the security detection of smart contracts.
The influence of oral antioxidants on men with infertility: a systemic review
Authors: Abouelgreed Tamer A. , Amer Mohamed A. , Mamdouh Hassan , El-Sherbiny Ahmed F. , Aboelwafa Hany , Fahmy Sameh F. , Omar Omar A. , Abdelshakour Mohammed , Elesawy Mohammad , Sonbol Mohamed , Maawad Ahmed N. , Elsayed Osama K.
Published: May 2024

Objective: This study aims to investigate the current evidence regarding the impact of oral antioxidant supplementation on semen parameters of infertile men.
Materials and methods: We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, and Cochrane electronic databases, adhering to modified Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The focus was on studies exploring the effects of antioxidant therapy on infertile men, with an examination of antioxidants in terms of types, doses, rationale for use, and their impact on semen parameters measures.
Results: A total of 18 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Out of these, 14 studies reported a significantly positive influence of antioxidant therapy on basic semen parameters and advanced sperm function. These comprised 11 randomized clinical trials and 7 prospective studies. Commonly utilized antioxidants included Vitamin E, Vitamin C, carnitines, co-enzyme Q10, N-acetyl cysteine, zinc, selenium, folic acid, and lycopene.
Conclusions: Overall, antioxidants generally demonstrate a favorable effect on semen parameters of infertile men. However, further research is necessary to pinpoint the optimal antioxidant regimen that can be applied safely and effectively in clinical practice.
Severe heart failure and intracardiac thrombosis: going beyond the appearance for diagnosis and treatments
Authors: Segreti Andrea , Mastroberardino Sara , Frau Lorenzo , Appetecchia Alessandro , D’Antonio Luca , Ricciardi Danilo , Ussia Gian Paolo , Grigioni Francesco
Published: May 2024

We describe the case of a 45-year-old female affected by asthma and nasal polyposis who presented to the emergency department because of worsening dyspnea and paresthesia of the left lower limb. Comprehensive instrumental examinations revealed the presence of severe left ventricle dysfunction, intra-cardiac thrombus, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, lung infiltrates, polyserositis, and neurological involvements. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), formerly Churg-Strauss syndrome, a rare vasculitis of small-medium blood vessels with several organ involvements. Treatment with anticoagulants, corticosteroids, and cyclophosphamide led to a significant clinical improvement. However, a subcutaneous cardiac defibrillator was implanted because of the persistence of severe left ventricular dysfunction and the high cardiovascular risk phenotype. Indeed, several cardiac manifestations may occur in EGPA, particularly in patients with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-negative disease. Therefore, clinicians should have high clinical suspicion because cardiac involvement in EGPA results in a poor prognosis if not diagnosed and adequately treated.
Admission Cardiotocography and Neonatal Outcomes at a Tertiary Health Facility in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Oluwasomidoyin O Bello , Emmanuel A Unwaha , Folasade A Bello
Published: May 2024

Background:

Admission cardiotocography (CTG), a noninvasive procedure, is used to indicate the state of oxygenation of the fetus on admission into the labor ward.

Objective:

This study assessed the association of admission CTG findings with neonatal outcome at a tertiary health facility.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, observational study of 206 pregnant women who were admitted into the labor ward with singleton live pregnancies. Information on the demographic characteristics, obstetrics and medical history, admission CTG tracing, and neonatal outcome was obtained using a structured data collection form. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 20.0 with the level of significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:

The admission CTG findings were normal in 73.3%, suspicious in 13.6%, and pathological in 13.1% of the women. The occurrence of low birth weight, special care baby unit (SCBU) admission, asphyxiated neonates, neonatal death, and prolonged hospital admission was significantly more frequent among those with pathological admission CTG results compared with normal and suspicious results (P < 0.05). The incidence of vaginal delivery was more common when the CTG findings were normal, whereas all women with pathological CTG result had a cesarean delivery.

Conclusion:

Admission CTG was effective in identifying fetuses with a higher incidence of perinatal asphyxia. Neonatal outcome such as low birth weight, APGAR score, SCBU admission, and prolonged hospital admission was significantly associated with pathological CTG findings. In the absence of facilities for further investigations, prompt intervention for delivery should be ensured if admission CTG is pathological.
Rheumatological Presentation of Inborn Errors of Immunity in Children: A Case Series from a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Koneru Shree Hasitha , Kumaresan Maithrayie , Jayaraman Dhaarani , Janarthanan Mahesh , Harshita Bhogavalli Lakshmi , Scott Julius Xavier
Published: May 2024

Inborn errors in immunity (IEI), well known as primary immunodeficiency diseases (PID) in children, have a varied spectrum of presentation. As the normal immune development is key for programming various cell responses in the body, IEI results in significant infections due to defective cell function, auto-immunity, or auto-inflammatory syndromes due to loss of self-tolerance and immune dysregulation and predisposition to lymphoid malignancies due to the defective tumor surveillance by the lymphocytes or natural killer cells. High index of suspicion and knowledge of the myriad presenting features are very important for appropriate timely diagnosis and management. We present four children with B-cell immunodeficiency syndromes with initial presentation including arthritis or auto-immunity.
Psychosocial Problems in Community-dwelling Older Adults: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Charan Gopal Singh , Kaur Akashpreet , Kaur Kiranpreet , Kaur Navpreet
Published: May 2024

Background:

Changing lifestyles, health care, growing age, and life expectancy have contributed to the occurrence of old age in communities. The elderly population are rising who are aged 60 or older in the present scenario. They are more prone to psychosocial problems such as stress, loneliness, low self-esteem, and anxiety. These problems impact their psychological health.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted at selected communities of Amritsar, Punjab. A total of 200 older adults were involved using the purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a predesigned sociodemographic pro forma and a five-point Likert scale to assess psychosocial problems among the elderly. The data collection method employed was interviewed. In the psychosocial problems assessment tool, a total of 35 items were included, which were further categorized as follows: no psychosocial problem (0–35), mild psychosocial problem (36–70), moderate psychosocial problem (71–105), and severe psychosocial problem (106–140).

Results:

The average age of the older adults was 69.31 ± 6.63 years, 65.5% were males and 34.5% were females. Regarding psychosocial problems, 69% had moderate, 16% had mild, 10.5% severe, and 4.5% had no problems. The median score was 90 (18). The median score was 17.50 (7) for stress, 38 (17.75) for loneliness, 18 (7.75) for anxiety, and 14 (7) for self-esteem. All the four domains, stress, loneliness, anxiety, and self-esteem, had a statistically significant relationship (P < 0.01). A statistically significant association was found between self-esteem, type of family, and anxiety with educational level.

Conclusion:

The study concluded that older adults in communities have significant psychosocial problems such as stress, loneliness, self-esteem, and anxiety. Collaboratively, health professionals, local community leaders, and social workers can formulate and execute a health awareness campaign to avoid these issues that cause the aged much anguish.
Utility of Bone Scan in Evaluating Patients with Clinically Indeterminate Diagnosis of Cancer in a Low-resource Practice
Authors: Onimode Yetunde A. , Adeleye Amos O. , Ntekim Atara I.
Published: May 2024

Context:

A major indication for referrals for bone scans (BS) to establish or exclude skeletal metastases. Few patients are referred with clinically indeterminate diagnosis or cancer of unknown primary (CUP), to search for bony metastases or primary tumor.

Aims:

This study aimed to assess the usefulness or otherwise for BS in such instances.

Settings and Design:

A retrospective cross-sectional study of BS performed for CUP and indeterminate diagnosis from 2012 to 2016 in the nuclear medicine unit of a tertiary teaching hospital.

Subjects and Methods:

The study involved reviews of technetium-99m diphosphonate BS for patients with CUP. BSs were reported by nuclear physicians as normal, normal variants, suspicious for metastases or as malignant, and with solitary or multiple skeletal metastases.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 for descriptive analysis. Continuous data were displayed as means along with their standard deviation; categorical data were tabulated as frequencies and percentages.

Results:

Of 2156 BS, 42 (0.02%) were eligible. Patients were aged 27–86 years, mainly in the sixth and seventh decades of life. Bone metastases were identified in 14 (33%) of these patients, whereas 17 BS (40%) were normal, BS appeared equivocal in 10 (23.8%).

Conclusions:

Single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography availability would resolve the clinical dilemma in patients with equivocal and apparently normal BS.
Ultrasound Evaluation of Anterior Neck Soft-Tissue Thickness to Predict Difficult Intubation in Overweight Adult Patients Posted for Surgery under General Endotracheal Anesthesia – An Observational Study
Authors: Archana K. N. , Ajnas A. P. , Kumararadhya Girish Bandigowdanahalli
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ultrasonographic imaging has been recently become simple portable and non-invasive adjuvant for bedside assessment of anterior neck soft tissue thickness which when measured at different levels showed to have significant role in predicting difficult laryngoscopy.

Aims and Objectives:

Primary objective was Ultrasonographic measurement of anterior neck soft tissue thickness at 3 levels -Distance from skin to hyoid bone (DSHB) -Distance from skin to thyrohyoid membrane (DSTM) -Distance from skin to anterior commissure of vocal cord(DSAC) and to compare and correlate the findings with Cooks modification of Cormack-Lehane score in predicting difficult laryngoscopy. Secondary objective was to compare and correlate the ultrasonographic measurements with conventional airway assessment methods.

Materials and Methods:

After obtaining approval from the ethical committee, 90 Patients with BMI above 25 kg /m2 was enrolled for the study. A day before the surgery a thorough Preanaesthetic evaluation and assessment of the airway is done using conventional methods. Then on the day of surgery ultrasonographic measurement of anterior neck at 3 levels was done and after inducing the patients laryngoscopy was done and Cooks modification of Cormack-Lehane score assessed.

Results:

The optimal cut off values to predict difficult laryngoscopy was 1.26, 2 and 1.2 cms for DSHB, DSTM and DSAC respectively, and among the three skin to anterior commissure of vocal cord was observed to be best USG parameter with more area under the ROC curve.

Conclusion:

USG measurement of anterior neck soft tissue thickness can be useful in predicting difficult laryngoscopy in overweight and obese patients also it had more diagnostic accuracy than conventional methods like MMS in predicting difficult laryngoscopy.
Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cold laser (Diode 808 nm) therapy in the treatment of localized plaque psoriasis: clinical, dermoscopic and ultrastructural study
Authors: Gohar Reham L. , Mourad Basma , Sarhan Naglaa , Shaker Engi Seif E.
Published: May 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic, recurring, and immune-mediated inflammatory skin disease. Throughout the period of the last few decades, phototherapy has become widely used in treating stable psoriatic lesions. For the treatment of psoriasis, several light/laser therapies with distinct modes of action have been developed. Cold laser therapy might be an effective therapeutic choice for localized plaque psoriasis.

Objective

To assess the safety and efficacy of cold laser therapy clinically and microscopically in localized plaque psoriasis treatment.

Patients and methods

40 patients with localized mild plaque psoriasis were selected from the Dermatology and Venereology outpatient clinic–Tanta University Hospitals and enrolled in the clinical trial. They were treated by cold laser 808 nm wavelength (Endolaser 422, Enraf–nonious B.V. Rotterdam, Netherlands) one session for 10 min on each plaque twice weekly separated by 2 days until clinical cure or for a maximum of 8 weeks. Evaluation was done immediately after the last session by taking the average of three blinded dermatologists of the photos, the modified Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [mPASI], dermoscopic examination, patients’ satisfaction scale and histopathological and electron microscopic examination of punch biopsy specimens taken before and after the end of treatment from psoriatic lesions in four patients only.

Results

There was a statistically significant clinical improvement after the end of treatment compared with before treatment as 16 patients (40%) showed excellent improvement, 8 patients (20%) showed good improvement, 9 patients (22.5%) showed mild improvement, and 7 patients (17.5%) showed poor improvement. As regard mPASI, a statistically significant decrease in mPASI was found after the end of treatment (P<0.001). Regarding dermoscopic examination, a statistically significant reduction in the percentage of patients showing dermoscopic red dots and white scales after the end of treatment (P<0.01). As regard the patients’ satisfaction scale, 82.5% of patients were satisfied from the results. Histopathological and ultrastructural evaluation revealed normalization of the psoriatic microscopic changes with cold laser.

Conclusion

The use of cold laser therapy for the management of localized mild plaque psoriasis is safe, tolerable, effective, and can be used as an alternative therapy for psoriasis.
Level of long noncoding RNA taurine upregulated gene 1 after narrow band-ultraviolet B phototherapy in vitiligo
Authors: Doss Reham W. , Rashed Laila A. , Ibrahim Hanaa , Naguib Rehab M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Vitiligo is a skin disease that is characterized by depigmenting lesions as a result of melanocytes destruction. Long noncoding Taurine upregulated gene 1 (lnc TUG-1) is one of the long noncoding RNA (lnc RNA) family members. The role of lncRNA TUG1 in melanogenesis has been investigated in recent studies.

Objective

To investigate the impact of narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) on lncTUG-1 expression in vitiligo.

Patients and methods

The first step of this work was a case control study that included thirty vitiligo patients and thirty healthy controls. four mm skin biopsies were taken from normal skin in healthy controls and from depigmenting lesions in vitiligo patients. The second step was a prospective single-arm interventional study in which patients were subjected to 12 weeks of NB-UVB phototherapy and biopsies were taken from repigmenting areas. Biopsies were kept frozen at −80°C till by real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to evaluate the lnc TUG-1 expression.

Results

The mean lnc TUG-1 expression in skin tissue biopsies of the vitiligo patients was significantly lower compared with control skin biopsies (0.307±0.202 ng/mg vs 1.03±0.063 pg/mg, respectively, P<0.001). Although the level of lnc TUG-1 was not normalized, the mean value of lnc TUG-1 significantly increased after 12 weeks treatment with NB-UVB compared with its value before phototherapy (0.0687 ng/mg vs. 0.307 ng/mg, respectively, P<0.001).

Conclusion

The lnc TUG-1 could be a possible player in the pathogenesis of vitiligo and repigmentation of vitiligo after NB-UVB phototherapy.
Types of ultraviolet filters and their combination used in sunscreen determine the appropriate sun protection factor values in vivo
Authors: Puspitosari Diah , Anjani Andini D. , Ruchiatan Kartika , Suwarsa Oki , Dharmadji Hartati P. , Sutedja Eva K. , Gondokaryono Srie P. , Rizqandaru Trustia , Hindritiani Reti
Published: May 2024

Background

The application of sunscreen has been shown to prevent the detrimental effects of ultraviolet. The effectiveness of a sunscreen formulation protection against ultraviolet B is measured by sun protection factor (SPF) and its value determined by in vivo testing is still the gold standard. The consistency between the in vivo and in vitro SPF values is still interesting to investigate, including the influencing factors.

Objective

To analyze the correlation between the products’ manufacturer estimation in vitro SPF value with the in vivo SPF value and assessing determinant factors that may influence the in vivo SPF value.

Patients and methods

Ten sunscreen products from various manufacturers were tested in vivo using The European Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association (COLIPA) method. All the tested products in this study have the manufacturer’s estimated SPF value determined based on in vitro test conducted by the manufacturer. The Spearman correlation test was used for data analysis.

Results

All sunscreen products had the estimated SPF values of 30 and 50, for five products each. Nine products were in cream formulations and one in lotion formulation, as ‘day cream’ and ‘BB cream,’ respectively. Six sunscreen products had lower in vivo SPF values compared with the manufacturer’s SPF value estimation, whereas four products had shown higher values. Although statistical analysis showed P value of 0.63 that indicates no significant correlation between both of the SPF values. Several products with the appropriate and higher in vivo SPF values contain octocrylene as a photostabilizer and additional coating materials such as stearic acid, aluminum hydroxide, and alumina.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the appropriateness of the in vivo SPF value to in vitro-estimated SPF value may be influenced by the photostabilizer substance and combination with additional coating materials also can increase stability and efficacy of the products.
Clinical Evaluation of the Long-Term Survival and Success Rates of Different Types of Implant-Supported Prostheses
Authors: Ranjan Madhu , Almudarris Ban Ahmed , Almalki Sultan Abdulrahman , Miyajiwala Juzer , Irengbam Aarti , Jadhav Manish Shivaji , Makkad Ramanpal Singh
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Dental implants have been essential to the therapy of patients who are partially edentulous.

Aim:

Clinical evaluation of the long-term survival and success rates of different types of implant-supported prostheses.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who had a healthy edentulous ridge of three missing teeth in the posterior jaw in which two or three dental implants were placed having any of three prostheses, namely, three-unit fixed dental prostheses (FPD) on two implants, three splinted crowns on three implants, and three splinted crowns on three implants were included.

Results:

The survival rate in all patients with dental implants having different types of prostheses was 94.9%. The survival rate in FPD, three splinted crowns, and three nonsplinted crowns was 100, 88.5, and 93.6% respectively.

Conclusion:

FPD loaded on two dental implants was found to have a greater long-term survival rate and success rate with a lower frequency of peri-implantitis and prosthodontic complications.
Prevalence of Oral Lichen Planus in Patients with Hypothyroidism Versus Nonhypothyroidism
Authors: Bansal Priyanka Vinod , Raj Kavita , Gupta Neha , Dwivedi Dhara , Sethi Ashish , Prabhakar Nitin , Makkad Ramanpal Singh
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

A chronic inflammatory illness known as oral lichen planus (OLP) affects approximately 1–2% of adults, with middle-aged women having a higher prevalence than men. One clinical endocrine condition that primary care doctors frequently see is hypothyroidism.

Aim:

To compare the prevalence of OLP among individuals with a previous diagnosis of hypothyroidism against those without hypothyroidism.

Methods and Materials:

A total of 1200 patients were included in this study. As per their medical reports, 600 patients included were found to have hypothyroidism. The rest 600 patients did not have hypothyroidism. All the patients underwent clinical examination and cases of OLP were identified according to the criteria of diagnosis of OLP.

Results:

Twenty (3.45%) study participants with hypothyroidism were found to have OLP. Eight (1.34%) study participants without hypothyroidism were found to have OLP of 2.37 (confidence interval: 0.91–6.23) and showed that the frequency of lichen planus in study participants with hypothyroidism was 2.37 times greater than that without hypothyroidism.

Conclusion:

Prevalence of lichen planus in persons with hypothyroidism was greater than that without hypothyroidism.
Investigation of Genetic Markers for Predicting Oral Cancer Progression and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Wasti Amit , Mohanty Liza , Shukla Ruchira , Gupta Bharti , Gowdar Inderjit Murugendrappa , Mehta Tarang , Makkad Ramanpal Singh
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Genomic methylation being used as a sensitive indicator for identifying oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDS) and oral cancer could be a viable option. DNA methylation is a potential approach for “cancer therapeutics” and can help researchers truly understand the genomic mechanism that leads to cancer.

Aim:

Investigation of genetic markers for predicting oral cancer progression and patient outcomes.

Methods and Materials:

One hundred and twelve patients having oral premalignant lesions and malignant lesions were included in this study. Saliva samples were obtained for analysis of the expression of genetic markers, such as p16, DAP-K, and MGMT. The Illumina Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip (Illumina Inc., USA) would be used to assess genome-wide DNA methylation according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Results:

Methylation of all the genes, that is, p16, DAP-K, and MGMT, was observed in 12.7% of oral cancer lesions. 41.94% of oral cancer lesions were found to have methylation of two genes. 13.23% cases were found to be associated with methylation of p16 and DAP-K, 12.12% cases were found to have methylation in the p16 and MGMT, and 15.27% cases of oral cancer lesions showed methylation of DAP-K and MGMT.

Conclusion:

Genetic markers, such as p53, DAP-K, and MGMT, can be used for predicting oral cancer progression and patient outcomes.
Assessment of Patient Satisfaction and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Following Full Mouth Rehabilitation with Implant-Supported Prostheses
Authors: Almudarris Ban A. , Poonia Pooja S. , Mansuri Atik H. , Almalki Sultan A. , Gupta Shekhar , Mohanty Rajat , Makkad Ramanpal S.
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

The concept of success is typically established by the researcher or the practitioner rather than the patient, who has the greatest stake in the outcome of the prosthodontics therapy.

Aim:

To assess patient satisfaction and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) in following full mouth rehabilitation with implant-supported prostheses (ISP).

Methods and Materials:

Thirty-two patients who underwent full mouth rehabilitation with ISP were included in this study. The Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire was used for the assessment of patient satisfaction and OHRQoL following full mouth rehabilitation with ISP.

Results:

The functional limitation among study participants before, 1 month, and 3 months after ISP was 2.1 ± 1.3, 1.5 ± 0.8, and 1.4 ± 0.9, respectively. There was a significant reduction in functional limitation, psychological disability, and social disability before and 3 months after ISP.

Conclusion:

There is a significant improvement in patient satisfaction and OHRQoL in following full mouth rehabilitation with ISP.
Estimation of Crestal Bone Loss with Flap and Flapless Methods for the Position of Implant
Authors: Parihar Anuj Singh , Mulla Munaz , Sahoo Pradyumna Kumar , Dana Suchit K , Abraham Sajith , Mulla Mushir
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The current research was conducted to estimate the loss of crestal bone using the flap and flapless method for implant placement.

Materials and Methods:

Forty participants who fulfilled the addition criteria were chosen for this research. All participants were then categorized equally into two study groups, that is, with and without undergoing flap surgery. Statistical evaluation was performed using the Mann-Whitney U-test.

Results:

Flapless implant placement showed lesser crestal bone loss.

Conclusion:

Compared to flap surgery, seamless implant implantation showed less loss of crestal bone.
Flap Fixation in Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy: A Comparative Study
Authors: Sikarwar Vikas , Ojha Sushil , Joshi Ankur , Shah Amit , Sandhu Rameet , Gandhi Pankaj
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

The usual procedure for nasolacrimal duct obstruction is dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). Flap-based DCR techniques lead to better surgical outcome provided flaps do not dislocate in the post-operative period.

Objectives:

This study was conducted to compare gelfoam with merocel tamponade for fixation of mucosal flaps in endoscopic DCR.

Materials and Method:

Merocel tamponade was used for fixation of flaps in 26 patients. Gelfoam was used in 26 patients, and surgical results were compared.

Results:

The surgical success rate was greater in merocel tamponade fixation with less complications.

Conclusion:

Merocel tamponade can be used successfully for mucosal flap fixation in endoscopic DCR for better surgical outcome.