bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FIBCD1 Deficiency Decreases Disease Severity in a Murine Model of Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Bhattacharya Shreya , Amarsaikhan Nansalmaa , Maupin Alec J , Schlosser Anders , Füchtbauer Ernst-Martin , Holmskov Uffe , Moeller Jesper Bonnet , Templeton Steven P
Published: December 2021

Aspergillus fumigatus is a ubiquitous mold associated with the development of pulmonary diseases that include invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), an often fatal opportunistic infection. FIBCD1 is a transmembrane endocytic membrane receptor widely expressed on human epithelium. Although FIBCD1 was previously shown to bind chitin, modulate fungal colonization of the gut, and inhibit intestinal inflammation, the role of FIBCD1 in the context of lung fungal infection remains unknown. In this study, we observed that mortality, fungal burden, and tissue histopathology were decreased in the absence of FIBCD1 in murine IPA. Quantitative RT-PCR analyses demonstrated decreased inflammatory cytokines in the lungs of neutrophil-depleted FIBCD1−/− mice with IPA, when compared with wild-type controls. In contrast, inflammatory cytokines were increased in immune-competent FIBCD1−/− mice after fungal aspiration, suggesting that the presence of neutrophils is associated with cytokine modulation. In contrast to the clear IPA phenotype, FIBCD1−/− mice with systemic infection or bleomycin-induced lung injury exhibited similar morbidity and mortality when compared with their wild-type counterparts. Thus, our study identifies a detrimental role of FIBCD1 in IPA.
Prevalence of eveningness and its association with cardiometabolic risk factors, risky sexual behavior, and alcohol use in adolescents and young adult males with ADHD
Authors: Kumar Shankar , Venkatakrishna Sneha , Ambalavana Karthik , Nayak Shruthi
Published: December 2021

Background:

Individuals with eveningness chronotype may be at a higher risk for developing unhealthy lifestyle and cardiovascular risk factors. Screening with traditional biomarkers may not help in detecting children and young adults with such a risk. There is paucity of literature studying novel biomarkers such as Apo B/ApoA1 ratio and highly sensitive C reactive protein (hs CRP) in predicting cardiometabolic risk in this population.

Objectives:

To study the prevalence of eveningness chronotype in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to know its association with metabolic risk factors that predict cardiometabolic consequences.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study consisted of thirty consenting adolescents and young adults who were on treatment for ADHD. Sociodemographic details were collected and the Morningness-eveningness questionnaire, alcohol use disorders identification test, HIV risk-taking behavior scale-sexual behavior subsection were used to determine eveningness, alcohol use, and risky sexual behavior, respectively. Body mass index (BMI) was measured. Blood investigations high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, triglycerides, Apo B/A1 ratio, lipoprotein A, and hsCRP were sent.

Results:

The prevalence of eveningness in our study participants was 30% (n = 9). Risky sexual behavior was more among those with eveningness (P = 0.03). Those with eveningness had significantly earlier sexual experience (P = 0.05). Alcohol use was also significantly more in those with eveningness (P = 0.02). There was no significant difference in traditional markers such as BMI, lipid profile for cardiometabolic risk among study participants with or without eveningness. However, Apo B/A1 ratio was significantly more in those with eveningness (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Eveningness chronotype is common in ADHD which could indicate risk for future cardiometabolic consequences in addition to behavioral issues. There is a need for large-scale cohort studies studying cardiometabolic risk and the clinical utility of novel biomarkers such as ApoB/ApoA1 in this population.
Impact of pandemic on the mental health of doctors working in a district COVID-19 hospital
Authors: Benerji Therissa , Bodepudi Sarath , Lella Srikanth , Kodali Madhavi
Published: December 2021

Background:

COVID-19 pandemic can significantly affect the mental health of doctors as they stand in the front line of this crisis. The psychiatric consequences, in part, can be due to the stress the doctors are subjected to due to their close involvement in the treatment of infected patients. Some of the other reasons are related to the fear of transmission to their families and concerns about the health of self and family, stigmatization, and rejection.

Aims:

To assess the levels of depression, anxiety, and stress among doctors working in district COVID hospital, note the possible association of life events with the mental health of the doctors during the current situation and address the coping styles they have sought to endure the current crisis.

Materials and Methods:

An online survey is conducted to assess the psychological responses of doctors during the COVID-19 outbreak. It consisted of four subsections covering (1) sociodemographic data and information on individuals' working conditions, (2) Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21, (3) presumptive stressful life events scale, (4) Brief-COPE.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 25.

Results:

Of the 353 participants, 80 had symptoms of depression, 151 anxiety, and 74 stress. Significant levels of depression were found among doctors involved in the direct care of patients with COVID-19 compared to those not involved in direct care. Undesirable events were found to be greater in number than desirable events. Concerning coping strategies, we found the more frequent use of adaptive coping strategies compared with maladaptive coping strategies among respondents.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 pandemic has a sizeable psychological impact on the mental health of doctors involved in direct and indirect care of patients with COVID-19.
An online cross-sectional survey of depression, anxiety, and stress among resident doctors working at a COVID-19 tertiary care center in India
Authors: Sriperambudoori Varsha , Pingali Srilakshmi , Tondehal Nikhil Ravindranath , Joopaka Ajay Kumar , Molanguru Umashanker
Published: December 2021

Background:

Health-care workers around the world are extending support to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. This unprecedented situation has put the health-care system under tremendous pressure. One of the underrepresented and under addressed area is that of psychological stress experienced by doctors in this time of crisis.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate for the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress among resident doctors working at a COVID-19 tertiary care center and the factors associated with their mental health status.

Materials and Methods:

An online cross-sectional survey of resident doctors was conducted over a 10-day period from June 1 to 10, 2020, through e-mail using a 2-part questionnaire – 1st part included information about sociodemographic profile and factors affecting the mental status and the 2nd included questions from the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). The scoring cutoffs for the presence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were >9, 7, and 14, respectively. The responses were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 (IBM) with P value as significant below 0.05 and all tests were two tailed.

Results:

Four hundred and thirty six out of 620 residents completed the survey yielding a response rate of 70.3%. A considerable proportion had symptoms of depression 132 (30.3%), anxiety 179 (41.1%), and stress 102 (23.4%). Females, first-line workers, those with a past history, and family history of mental illness had statistically significant higher scores on all three subscales of DASS-21. The number of working hours showed a significant positive correlation with symptoms of anxiety (r = 0.138, P = 0.004) and stress (r = 0.108, P = 0.024).

Conclusion:

One-third of respondents reported experiencing negative emotional states currently, indicating pandemic's psychological impact on frontline health workers. There is a need for mental health interventions targeting frontline health workers who are a crucial workforce in lower middle economy like India and promote their overall mental well-being.
Anorectal malignant melanoma – Case series
Authors: Pandiaraja Jayabal
Published: December 2021

Anorectal melanoma is a rare tumor of the anal canal. It is <1% of all anorectal malignancies and 1%–2% of melanoma. Because of the presentation and aggressive nature of the tumor, the prognosis remains poor. The patient often presents with nonspecific complaints such as bleeding per rectum or altered bowel habits. Because of the late presentation and aggressiveness, the selection of treatment modality is limited. This case series reviews the clinical features and management of patients with anorectal malignant melanoma.
Infection of Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s Disease and the Suppression of Immunity
Authors: Putri Citra Feriana , Bachtiar Endang Winiati
Published: December 2021

Alzheimer disease is one of the most frequent neurodegenerative diseases. Porphyromonas gingivalis is the key pathogen of chronic periodontitis, and it has a virulence factor known as gingipain. Gingipain is a proteolytic enzyme capable of penetrating the blood–brain barrier to reach the brain’s center of cognition. Gingipain that reaches the brain is suspected of having a relationship with an amyloid-beta plaque and neurofibrillary tangle, which play a critical role in the formation of Alzheimer disease. These bacteria may also suppress the immune system by reducing cytokine tumor growth factor (TGF-beta) and Interferon (IFN-gamma) and imbalance of Th17/Treg (Regulatory T cells). Besides that, the involvement of P. gingivalis in the brain may trigger neuroinflammation and lead to neuron defect and worsen Alzheimer disease. This review aims to discuss the correlation between P. gingivalis and the development of Alzheimer disease.
A Qualitative Study on Experiences of Women Undergoing Treatment to Achieve Fertility from Selected Infertility Centres of Maharashtra
Authors: Ray Supriya Pottal , Bhore Nilima R.
Published: December 2021

Infertility has an immense effect on the roles and relationships in a woman's life. A woman may react differently to issue of infertility as many social customs and traditions are related to pregnancy, childbirth and child-rearing. One is bound to compare another woman on issues of the time of marriage, time gone by after marriage, and successfully becoming pregnant. These issues may not be important to the ones who have conceived but can be traumatic for the one who cannot. Therefore, a qualitative study was undertaken to explore various kinds of experiences women underwent while seeking treatment for infertility. A qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used for the present study. The saturation of the data was achieved with 48 participants selected purposively from among women who were seeking treatment for infertility in three cities. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted and field notes were taken during interviews. Thematic analysis was done for determining essential codes, themes and subthemes. The themes which emerged from the study were burden about their fertility state, decision-related seeking treatment, commitment to treatment, feeling of inadequacy, support, stigma, hopes and beliefs and coping. The study has revealed that the failure to have a child is distressing to the women; however, there is variation in their reactions to infertility. Qualitative study has provided a detail description of the phenomenon of interest, the human variation and has explained its occurrences from individual viewpoint irrespective of their demographics. The findings will help in counselling services and help nurses to identify and rectify the problems posed by these clients.
Tooth Fragment Reattachment
Authors: Sucharita Vishwakarma , Archie Khera
Published: December 2021

Appropriate management of anterior tooth fracture not only restores the function and esthetics but also provides a positive psychological impact for the patient. One of the most conservative approaches for such a restoration is reattachment, if fracture fragment is available. This case report provides three cases with varied approaches for the management of complicated and uncomplicated crown fracture using reattachment procedure. First case describes management of a complicated fracture of the upper central incisor which invades the biological width using flap elevation and fiber post cementation. Second case report describes reattachment of complicated fracture of the central incisor managed using fiber post cementation and reattachment after nonsurgical endodontic treatment. Third case report describes management of Ellis Class II fracture. Reattachment of fractured fragment is indeed a cost-effective conservative treatment.
Periodontal Management of Osseous Defect Due to Iatrogenesis as well as Foreign Body Impaction
Authors: Rajendran Poornima , Asokachandran Mohanapriya
Published: December 2021

During any dental treatment, various instruments, dental materials, and appliances come in contact with the tissues of the oral cavity. Inappropriate handling of these instruments and materials can cause both hard tissue and soft tissue damage. Periodontal destruction due to iatrogenesis and foreign body impaction is not uncommon. The present case report describes an unusual case of iatrogenic periodontal destruction due to restorative overhang as well as impacted restorative material into the interdental region and its management.
Use of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Membrane with Tricalcium Silicate in Interdisciplinary Management of Fractured Fused Anterior Teeth with Periapical Pathology
Authors: Guruprasad C. N. , Shankareswari T. R. , Jeethu Maria Thomas
Published: December 2021

The ultimate goal in modern dentistry is to achieve white and pink esthetics. Optimal periodontal health without encroaching biologic width is the foundation upon which reconstruction of teeth is based. This case report presents the multidisciplinary management of an orthodontic patient who reported with fractured fused endodontically treated upper right anterior teeth with periapical lesion. Crown lengthening procedure with apically displaced flap was done to preserve the band of keratinized tissue and to gain access to the apex of the teeth. Apicoectomy and placement of tricalcium silicate (Biodentine) along with platelet-rich fibrin membrane was done. For better esthetic composite, veneer was given and orthodontic treatment continued. One-year examination showed uneventful healing and reduction of the periapical lesion. PRF membrane and Biodentine yielded good benefits for regeneration. Thus, multidisciplinary approach emphasizes the importance and beauty of collaboration between various specialties to provide the best quality of care to the patient.
Investigation of salivary C-reactive protein and interleukin-18 for the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis
Authors: Barekatain Behzad , HasanGhalyaei Najmeh , Mohammadizadeh Majid , Tavakolifard Negah
Published: December 2021

Background:

Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of death in neonates worldwide. The investigation of biomarkers for the early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis is in progress with controversial outcomes. The current report aims to evaluate the values of salivary C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-18 (IL-18) for the diagnosis of neonatal sepsis.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 89 neonates, including 49 neonatal septic case and 40 healthy group admitted at the neonatal intensive care unit, were evaluated. The salivary samples of IL-18 and CRP were measured before the antibiotic therapy initiation, as soon as blood samplings. Sepsis diagnosis was confirmed by the positive blood culture. The diagnostic values of the biomarkers were determined using the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) analysis. Besides, the sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV) positive likelihood ratio (LR+), negative likelihood ratio (LR-), and diagnostic accuracy were measured.

Results:

Salivary CRP level was remarkably higher in septic case than healthy group (5.2 ± 4.61 vs. 3.5 ± 1.7; P = 0.02), while salivary IL-18 was not different between the groups (0.1 ± 0.29 vs. 0.04 ± 0.19; P = 0.25). The ROC curve for IL-18 showed insignificant values (P = 0.37). The ROC curve of salivary CRP showed area under the curve of 0.63 (95% confidence interval: 0.51–0.74; P = 0.03) with the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, LR+, LR − and diagnostic accuracy of 44.9% (31.8–58.7), 80% (65.2–89.5), 73.3% (55.5–85.82), 54.2% (41.6–66.3), 60.6% (50.29–70.18), 2.24 (1.57–3.2), and 0.68 (0.63–0.75) at the cutoff of 4.55 ng/L, respectively.

Conclusion:

Based on the findings of the current study, salivary CRP can be considered a biomarker for the early diagnosis of neonatal sepsis, while no statistical values for salivary IL-18 were detected. Due to the significance of neonatal sepsis, further evaluations are strongly recommended.
Comparison of susceptibility weighted imaging with conventional MRI sequences in multiple sclerosis plaque assessment
Authors: Rabbani Masoud , Shaygannejad Vahid , Bahrami Mahshid , Badiei Sajad
Published: December 2021

Background:

The current study was performed to compare susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods of T2-weighted (T2W) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging in multiple sclerosis (MS) plaque assessment

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 50 MS patients referred to Shafa Imaging Center, Isfahan, Iran. Patients who fulfilled McDonald criteria and were diagnosed with MS by a professional neurologist at least 1 year before the study initiation were included in the study. Eligible patients underwent brain scans using SWI, T2W imaging, and FLAIR. Plaques’ number and volume were detected separately for each imaging sequence. Moreover, identified lesions in SWI sequence were evaluated in terms of iron deposition and central veins

Results:

Totally 50 patients (10 males and 40 females) with a mean age of 28.48 ± 5.25 years were included in the current study. Majority of patients (60%) had a disease duration of >5 years, and mean expanded disability status score was 2.56 ± 1.32. There was no significant difference between different imaging modalities in terms of plaques’ number and volume (P > 0.05). It was also found that there was a high correlation between SWI and conventional imaging techniques of T2W (r = 0.97, 0.91, P < 0.001) and FLAIR (r = 0.99, 0.99, P < 0.001) in the estimation of both the number and volume of plaques (P < 0.001)

Conclusion:

The results of the present study indicated that SWI and conventional MRI sequences have similar efficiency for plaque assessment in MS patients.
Expression of miRNA-25 in young and old lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Boldrini Laura , Giordano Mirella , Melfi Franca , Lucchi Marco , Fontanini Gabriella
Published: December 2021

Background:

An appropriate personalized molecular testing ensures the most efficacious treatment in lung cancer. It is still controversial whether younger lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients have different molecular features compared with their older counterparts. MicroRNAs have been involved in lung cancer and their altered expression has been suggested as a potential biomarker in the pathogenesis, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy of LUAD.

Materials and Methods:

To analyze putative differences in miR-25 expression between young (with age ≤50 years) and old adenocarcinoma patients, we quantified miR-25 levels with NanoString technology in 88 LUAD specimens. We further investigated a cohort of 309 LUAD patients from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) database to test our hypothesis.

Results:

miR-25 expression was upregulated in young LUAD patients in comparison to the older ones (P = 0.03) in our series. The analysis of public database TCGA confirmed our results, which miR-25 differentially expressed in the two aged groups (P = 0.0009). Moreover, a consequential pairing of miR-25 with a target region in phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) 3’ untranslated region (UTR) and actually low PTEN expression seemed to be associated with high miR-25 (P = 0.001) in young patients.

Conclusions:

The interaction of miR-25 and PTEN in young LUAD may define a subgroup of patients, highlighting the concept of molecular testing in different age subtypes.
Determining the factors affecting energy metabolism and energy requirement in cancer patients
Authors: Bulmuş Tüccar Tuğçe , Acar Tek Nilüfer
Published: December 2021

Cancer is the second most common cause of death worldwide. It is a generic name for a large group of diseases that can affect any part of the body. Cancer affects both energy intake through the diet and the total energy expenditure (TEE) through the changes in energy metabolism, resulting in negative or positive energy balance. Determining daily energy requirement is very important in the regulation of the nutrition therapy in a cancer patients. Due to the difficulty in directly measuring the TEE, resting energy expenditure, which is the largest component of the TEE, is often used in the determination of the energy requirement. In this study, the effects of disease-specific factors such as tumor burden, inflammation, weight loss and cachexia on energy metabolism in cancer patients were investigated.
Antibiofilm activity of selenium nanorods against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Hasani Shweta , Khare Tushar , Oak Uttara
Published: December 2021

Objective:

This study aimed at the synthesis and application of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) against biofilm formation by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Staphylococcus aureus isolated from the domestic sewage treatment plant.

Materials and Methods:

Chemically synthesized SeNPs were characterized using Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM).. Bacteria were isolated from domestic sewage water samples and characterized and identified using standard techniques. The drug resistance pattern of the isolates was determined using a disk diffusion assay. Biofilms of this MDR isolate were established (microtiter plate method—colorimetric assay and a slide method). Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of selenium nanorods (SeNRs) and their effect on biofilm formation were established using a colorimetric method.

Results:

The HR-SEM analysis of nanomaterials revealed its shape (rod), size (between 85 nm and 275 nm), and purity of the material. The disk diffusion assay attributed MDR status to an isolate that was identified and found to be S. aureus, a pathogenic bacterium isolated from an environmental sample. The MICs of antibiotics against biofilm were found to be at least threefold higher than those against the planktonic state. In the presence of SeNRs, biofilm formation was inhibited.

Conclusion:

SeNRs synthesized using wet chemical method showed antibacterial activity against MDR S. aureus and inhibited biofilm formation by this organism. These SeNRs can be further developed as an alternate drug lead to combat the challenge posed by the MDR bacteria. The study has a future prospectus in investigating the mechanism of inhibition of biofilm formation and its action on preformed biofilm by this isolate.
Hemifacial microsomia and bilateral Mondini dysplasia
Authors: Ramesh Padma , Sangole Vaishali , Neelikattu Aathira
Published: December 2021

We present a rare association of bilateral Mondini dysplasia with hemifacial microsomia (HFM). HFM is a clinical spectrum of malformations involving the orbit, mandible, ears, facial nerve, and soft tissues of the face. It occurs in about 1 in 5600 births and requires a multidisciplinary approach to management.[1] We report a case of HFM in an 11-year-old girl who presented with recurrent discharge from the nasal dorsum, and facial asymmetry since birth but was otherwise asymptomatic. The hearing evaluation revealed bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. High-resolution computed tomography scan of the temporal bones showed bilateral Mondini dysplasia of the inner ear which to the best of our knowledge has not been previously reported in HFM. We conclude that all cases of HFM regardless of symptomatology should undergo hearing evaluation. This will facilitate rehabilitation of deafness if present.
Incidence and determinants of acute kidney injury following Mannitol therapy
Authors: Grace Mary , Paul Geo A.J. , Aravindan Varada , Muhammad Afzal C. M , Joy Breeze Ann , Ajmal Nalakathkarappamveetil Muthu
Published: December 2021

Background:

Mannitol is a commonly used drug in general medicine and neuro medicine wards. Mannitol reduces intracerebral pressure by redistributing water from the brain parenchyma. Renal failure is cited as one of the most common side effects and concern over this often limits the use of Mannitol. This study is intended to find out whether the use of Mannitol, in the doses commonly used in our setting, is associated with derangement of renal function and if so what are its determinants.

Materials and Methods:

We did a prospective observational study on 151 consecutive patients. The duration of the study was for one year from January to December 2020. Mannitol was used in the usual dose of 100 ml of 20% solution 8 hourly. Acute kidney injury was diagnosed based on the KDIGO criteria.

Results:

The study population included 103 males (68%) and 48 females (32%). The age group ranged from 14 years to 98 years. A total of 42 patients (27.8%) developed acute kidney injury of which 26 were males (62%) and 16 were females (38%). By multiple regression analysis, age more than 65 years and diastolic blood pressure more than 100 mm of Hg were the two significant predictors for the occurrence of acute kidney injury.

Conclusion:

Mannitol is a safe drug that can be used to reduce intracerebral pressure, provided the dose of the drug is carefully monitored, especially in those with risk factors such as advanced age and high diastolic blood pressure. An equally important aspect is the early recognition of the renal impairment because stopping the drug will in most situations reverse the damage. Since any renal impairment, however small and short-lasting, can have adverse long-term effects, such insults must be avoided as far as possible.
Comparison of intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of nondescent vaginal hysterectomy and total laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: Tondge Ganesh , Dasila Priyank Singh , More Nandkishore , Kale Suvarna , Shelke Swapnil
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Nondescent vaginal hysterectomy (NDVH) and total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) are the two approaches used to perform a hysterectomy in a nonprolapsed uterus based on indication for surgery, size of the uterus, availability of types of equipment, skills of the surgeon, and patient’s preference. Each surgical approach has its own merits and demerits.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective and comparative study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at a tertiary care center from December 2018 to November 2020 to compare the intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of NDVH and TLH. A total of 80 patients (40 in NDVH and 40 in TLH group) were calculated based on the average number of hysterectomies (mainly TLH). All patients admitted to the hospital for NDVH and TLH were selected based on the selection criteria.

Results:

The mean age group irrespective of the route of surgery is found to be within the age group of 41–45 years. The majority of the patients who were operated on were diagnosed to have fibroids as the main cause for their complaints followed by adenomyotic changes and hyperplasia. The mean blood loss of NDVH was found less as compared to TLH but not significant as P value >0.05. The mean number of days for a hospital stay for NDVH is 4.26, whereas the hospital stay for TLH patients was found to be 4.7 days that is greater as compared with NDVH. The most common complication irrespective of the type of surgery is urinary tract infection followed by pyrexia.

Conclusion:

Considering the outcomes and cost-effectiveness of both routes of surgery, it is found that nondescending vaginal hysterectomy is more advantageous over total laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Health implications of knowledge, and attitudes for road safety and protective measures among commercial motorcycle riders in a semi-urban setting in Nigeria
Authors: Afelumo Olaide Lateef , Abiodun Olaiya P. , Sanni Olaniyi F.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Knowledge of road safety and preventive measures effectively reduces accidents associated with motorcycles. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of motorcycle riders in the Ado-Odo Ota local government area (LGA) towards road safety and accident preventive measures.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study that used a structured questionnaire to collect data related to knowledge of safety measures from the respondents using a stratified random sampling technique to identify potential respondents. IBM-SPSS version 25.0 for Windows IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA, was used for data analysis.

Results:

There were 374 respondents, of which 69.0% owned the motorcycles, and 31.0% were hired/rented. The knowledge of road safety and preventive measures among respondents was generally poor (46.5%). Rented/hired motorcycle riders displayed better knowledge (55.2%) than owners (42.6%) (P < 0.05). Factors associated with knowledge include being married COR = 2.48 (95% CI = 1.22–5.08; P < 0.05), secondary/higher education COR = 1.90 (95% CI = 1.19–3.05; P < 0.05), and over 6-year of experience COR of 1.69 (95% CI = 1.08–2.63; P < 0.05). Motorcycle owners displayed better attitudes (71.7%) than hired (57.8%) (P < 0.05). Secondary/higher education COR 1.24 (95% CI = 0.78–1.97; P > 0.05), and good knowledge COR = 4.15 (95% CI = 2.50–6.91; P < 0.005) were the determinants of positive attitudes towards safety measures. The overall prevalence of road traffic crashes was 45.2%, higher among riders with insufficient knowledge (47.5%) and negative attitudes (55.7%) towards safety measures.

Conclusion:

The government and other stakeholders should organize regular training to improve the riders’ knowledge and attitudes towards road safety and preventive measures due to the riders’ inadequate knowledge of safety and protective measures. These actions will help reduce accident rates and consequently reduce road traffic crashes’ medical and economic burdens.
Infection of mucormycosis inpatients in Covid-19
Authors: Sharma Harshul , Pole Shivaji , Sabatina Gaijala , Saraf Rishika , Joshi Saurabh , Dahipale Devidas Baburao , Mishrikotkar Prassana S.
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Mucormycosis is a rare infection known to be one of the most rapidly progressing and lethal forms of fungal infection in humans, with a high mortality rate of 70–100%. Covid-19 cases were reported from all states of the country, but cases of mucormycosis in the setting of COVID-19 pneumonia were very low and that too reasoned that this was most likely due to the patient’s immune-compromised condition.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of this article is to assess mucormycosis in Covid-19 patients and its association with the immune status of patients.

Materials and Methods:

Over 5 months, from February 2021 to June 2021, a retrospective observational study was conducted at MGM Medical College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. The study included all patients who came for imaging to the Radiology Department with mucormycosis who were either coronavirus-positive or had recovered from coronavirus infection. All patients with a molecular diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to our hospital and having a clinical diagnosis of invasive fungal infections were included.

Results:

All 30 (100%) patients were diabetic; 17 of these had uncontrolled blood sugar levels with HbA1C levels >6.5%, and the remaining 13 patients had controlled diabetes. The majority of uncontrolled diabetics (17 out of 30) had invasive mucormycosis, rhino-orbital mucormycosis and rhino-orbital cerebral stage, whereas only 3 subjects with control diabetes had invasive mucormycosis. Five uncontrolled diabetic patients had rhino-orbital cerebral stage, whereas only two controlled had rhino-orbital cerebral stage. There is a significant difference between controlled and uncontrolled diabetes with P-value of 0.

Conclusion:

Covid-19 connection to invasive mucormycosis infection is extremely dangerous and should be taken seriously. Uncontrolled diabetes and inappropriate use of steroids during the management of Covid-19 are two of the most common causes of disease aggravation, and both must be addressed.
A retrospective study on the prevalence of weak D antigen (Du) in a blood bank in a tertiary care hospital in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Srivastava Abhiniti Rahul , Dhote Sweta Wasudeo , Singh Iqbal
Published: December 2021

Background:

One of the most immunogenic blood groups known to humans is the Rhesus (Rh) blood group. The Rh blood group with variable expression of D antigen is one of the complex systems in immunohematology. Sometimes, the variable expression of RhD antigen leads to the presence of weaker forms that are not detected by routine laboratory procedures.

Aims:

The study was conducted to determine the frequency of RhD negativity and weak D antigens.

Settings and Design:

This retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Immunohematology and Transfusion Medicine at a tertiary care center hospital for three years from June 2017 to June 2020.

Materials and Methods:

All the serial Rh grouping tests were conducted by the gel technique or by the tube method with two Anti-D reagents. Negative D antigen samples were further tested for weak D antigen by Coombs Test. Statistical analysis used the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results:

Out of a total of 17262 samples, 15400 (89.2%) tested Rh-positive, and 1866 (10.8%) tested Rh-negative. Weak D was positive in 52(0.027%) samples out of the RhD negative samples.

Conclusion:

The frequency of weak D antigen is low, but the strong immunogenicity of RhD antigen calls for the need for appropriate testing. This is of concern in RhD negative pregnant females, as it can cause alloimmunization if accidentally weak D antigen-positive blood is transfused.
Study of human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2/neu) expression in primary colorectal carcinoma in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Agrawal Mousmi , Pingle Suparna S. , Prabhakar Bhale Chandrashekhar
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) mainly affects the middle-aged and elderly population with a gradual increase in its incidence. Various studies have found human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2/neu) overexpression in CRC and its associated prognostic outcome. HER2/neu activates various signaling pathways which leads to cell proliferation and survival, and thereby its overexpression causes excessive tumor cell growth and migration.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the percentage of HER2/neu positive and negative cases and to correlate it with the grade and stage of the tumor.

Materials and Methods:

The study was carried out for 2 years in the Department of Pathology, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Aurangabad, and included 35 resected specimens of colorectal carcinoma. Histopathological examination was studied and for immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, paraffin wax-embedded tissues were immune stained for HER2/neu.

Results:

Of 35 cases, there were 18 women and 17 men. Approximately 28.57% cases were in the age group of 41–50 years with the mean age being 54 years. In 37.14% of cases, the tumor was located in the ascending colon. Approximately 77.14% cases were Grade 2. In total, 57.14% cases were at stage T3. Six cases were HER2/neu positive and 29 cases were HER2/neu negative.

Conclusion:

A significant correlation was found between HER2/neu expression with histologic grade and stage of the tumor. HER2/neu targeted therapeutic strategies have the potential to change treatment course and outcome. Hence, HER2/neu can be used as a biomarker in patients with CRC to assess their prognostic outcome.
Responses and Impacts of COVID-19 on East Africa’s Tourism Industry
Authors: Ezra Peter , Kitheka Benard , Sabuhoro Edwin , Riungu Geoffrey K. , Sirima Agnes , Amani Annah
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all economies and life support systems world-wide. Owing to the pandemic's unpredictable nature, experts and policymakers struggle to find a headway to slow infections and further economic deterioration. The purpose of this study is to assess East African Community (EAC) states’ early responses and the pandemic’s impacts on the tourism industry. Data were collected through a review of secondary data, including academic and media reports. Special attention was paid to respective policy responses during the early stages of the pandemic outbreak. Findings show that Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda employed more robust measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, whereas Tanzania and Burundi resorted to censorship and protectionism. The EAC should quickly learn from the current crisis and devise strategies to handle future shocks to the tourism-system. The states should prioritize economic diversification, retraining of the workforce, global engagement, and collaborative management.
Association of TNFAIP3 gene polymorphism (rs5029939) with susceptibility and clinical phenotype of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Gaballah Hala , Abd-elkhalek Reham , Hussein Ola , El-wahab Shimaa Abd
Published: December 2021

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the association of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha inducible protein 3 (TNFAIP3) (rs5029939) gene single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its clinical manifestations in a cohort of SLE patients.

Patients and methods: This study included a total of 180 participants (18 males, 72 females; mean age: 30.9±10.1 years; range 17 to 59 years) including 90 SLE patients and 90 healthy controls between March 2017 and February 2020. The TNFAIP3 rs5029939 gene polymorphism was identified by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in all participants.

Results: There was a significant difference in genotype distribution of the TNFAIP3 rs5029939 SNP between SLE patients and healthy controls, where CG genotype was more common in SLE patients (53.3%) than controls (11.1%) (p=0.001). We found a significant difference in G allele frequency of TNFAIP3 (rs5029939) (37.8% with SLE vs. 5.6% with controls, p=0.001). Genotype CG was significantly associated with lupus nephritis and neuropsychiatric manifestations (p<0.05). Although the response to treatment was numerically higher with the genotype CC, it did not reach statistical significance (p=0.4).

Conclusion: Our study suggests that TNFAIP3 rs5029939 gene polymorphism is associated with SLE susceptibility and may have an impact on its clinical phenotype. As such association differs among populations of diverse ethnic backgrounds, larger genome-wide association studies are warranted to further elucidate genetic associations.
Inteligencia emocional en el contexto universitario: Retos para el docente
Authors: Torres Ruiz Angela Esther
Published: December 2021

El presente escrito tiene como finalidad destacar la importancia de considerar la inteligencia emocional en los procesos formativos desarrollados en el contexto universitario, tarea que se muestra como ineluctable en el marco de una sociedad dinámica que impone nuevas exigencias derivadas de la convergencia de una multiplicidad de factores sociales y culturales. Apoyándose en una revisión documental-sistemática se ha realizado un breve recorrido teórico para realzar la trascendencia de considerar la dimensión emocional, estableciéndose un marco de referencia desde los aportes de Fragoso (2018) y Fernández (2017). A partir de la ampliación del plano comprensivo sobre la temática se desglosan los retos que supone para el docente considerar la inteligencia emocional en el contexto universitario. Se colige que desde una universidad con perspectiva más formativa y humanista se puede lograr el desarrollo de habilidades socioemocionales, preparando al futuro profesional para ser un ciudadano para la vida.
Uso de herramientas tecnológicas para la resolución de problemas en el área de las matemáticas
Authors: Bejarano Cordoba Andrés Samir , Guerrero Godoy Ruth Stella
Published: December 2021

Este estudio tuvo como propósito evaluar las capacidades y destrezas que tienen los estudiantes para resolver problemas matemáticos e implementar una herramienta tecnológica, como estrategia pedagógica para mejorar el proceso de resolución de problemas del área de las matemáticas, en el grado 701 y 702, de la Institución Educativa Distrital Antonio José Uribe. La muestra quedo conformada por 56 estudiantes; el enfoque fue mixto con fundamento cuantitativo. Se evidencio un bajo rendimiento de los estudiantes en las distintas pruebas aplicadas y solo el 1% de ellos obtienen notas satisfactorias de acuerdo con el rango de las pruebas saber en el área de las matemáticas. Se concluye que la inclusión de una estrategia estructurada para la solución de problemas matemáticos fortalece las capacidades de los estudiantes y permite que estos construyan, ejecuten y evalúen un plan de solución de acuerdo con la incógnita que se plantea en el problema o situación.
Educación como eje transformador del ser ético en sociedad
Authors: Torres Cruz Óscar Alejandro , Arroyave Giraldo Dora Inés
Published: December 2021

El artículo tiene como objetivo, generar algunas reflexiones después de realizar una revisión documental relacionada con el carácter transformador que tiene la educación en la sociedad. Un actuar que se presenta desde la ética, que involucra procesos propios de la enseñanza antes y durante el COVID-19. Una educación que no se basa solo en aprender saberes; por el contrario, se atreve a desarrollar formas en el pensar del estudiante, apoyando sus procesos de enseñanza-aprendizaje con la mediación tecnológica, desde un actuar ético con y para el otro, discutiendo la relevancia de las relaciones interpersonales. Debatiendo la enseñanza en presencialidad y las dificultades que se están identificando en la virtualidad, carencias que van mucho más allá de la conectividad. Por lo anterior, es importante desarrollar un pensar en los estudiantes que les permita ejercer una ciudadanía crítica, planteando soluciones reales a problemas reales.
Resiliencia y espiritualidad en la labor docente, significación en el contexto de la pandemia por COVID-19
Authors: Bendack Mendoza Yahir René , Tarazona Meza Anicia Katherine
Published: December 2021

El contexto pandémico ha sido testigo del resurgir espiritual de quienes asumen el compromiso con otros, junto con la resiliencia conforman un recurso humano poderoso que se relaciona directamente con la construcción del sentido de la vida, elementos que ayudan a los individuos a tener mayor conciencia de sí, y al mismo tiempo, como una dimensión que ayuda a la auto trascendencia humana. De allí que este articulo parte de una investigación documental con la distinción de revisión sistémica en torno a la resiliencia y espiritualidad en la labor docente, significación en el contexto de la pandemia por Covid-19, el estudio se llevó a cabo considerando las técnicas de fichaje, lectura evaluativa o crítica, el análisis de contenido y la técnica gráfica. De la recolección lógica y ordenada de información referidos emergieron conceptos claves categorías y subcategorías que luego fueron interpretadas a luz de las palabras de los autores, lo que permitió un análisis de contenido minucioso y con ello generar entre las reflexiones, que el tiempo pandémico ha conducido al docente a un despertar, a un accionar y esto se logra desde su fortaleza espiritual en la que ha hecho uso de herramientas resilientes.
Veil, a Need of Human BIOS: Study beyond Religions
Authors: Alam Syed Aftab , Akhtar Naseem
Published: December 2021

Generally, it is understood that religions are the basic foundations of women veil-acceptance and projection in present societies but the study of ancient communities beyond the birth of Semitic Religions evident that in approximately all parts of the globe, the women used to wear the full body covering dresses and somewhere face veil also. Due to attaining physical enchantment or necessity of climate, dresses or head covering were somewhat different but females were used the veil of body and face all the times. Human being, man and women, has a constant human BIOS (Basic Input & Output System). Human BIOS has fixed needs and defined actions which cannot be changed or corrupted due to diseases or accidents. Human BIOS consists on skill of speaking, hearing, smelling, seeing, eating, defending, making itself beautiful, saving body or self, covering the body and loving other sex. Human BIOS of women has some specific characteristics also like shyness, fear by exposing body and love for decorating her body. These characteristics of women BIOS urges and urged them to cover their bodies and heads with veil. This article consists of study of women practices of veiling in ancient communities, explanation of women BIOS, female natural urge for covering and decorating their bodies. All of this study is on humanitarian basis beyond the boundaries of religions. The article explained that philosophical pathology of veil elucidated the actual bases of veil adaptation among women. Of course World Major Religions depict a social phenomenon that there is no ban on women to use veil and additionally, religions advocate modest or full body covering dresses and presents veil of full body of women as a mark of honor, dignity and modesty among all communities of the world but the article revolves around the veil adaptation only by women BIOS sphere.
Important Jurisprudential Deliberations on Divorce and Khulʻ: A Study of Wahba Zuhīlī's "Al-Tafsīr al-Munīr"
Authors: Abdul Jaleel  , Muhammad Shahbaz Manj
Published: December 2021

This paper studies renowned jurist and exegete Wahba Zuhīlī's commentary of the Quran named "Al-Tafsīr al-Munīr” on important jurisprudential deliberations related to divorce and Khulʻ. The study reveals that before divorce and Khulʻ, couples should try to reconcile with each other. If the problem escalates, the couple's parents and community should play a role in reconciling. The husband has the power to grant a divorce. The divorce can be granted only in a state of purity.  Ibn Taymiyyah counts three divorces together. Zuhīlī's inclination is in the same direction. Jurists agree on the legal  Sharīʻah status of Khulʻ. If a woman delightedly gives money for Khulʻ, then it is permissible for the husband to accept it. According to the Hanafīs, Shāfī'is and Malikīs, Khulʻ is a “Tallāq-e-Bā’ina”, not annulment of marriage. However to the Ḥanbalīs, there is detail in it. The consent of the spouses is required in Khulʻ.
Pioneering Social Research
Authors: Thompson Paul , Plummer Ken , Demireva Neli
Published: December 2021

Presenting the landmark Pioneers life stories project, this one-of-a-kind book documents how modern social research in the UK was shaped. It combines a fascinating history of the generations who built outstanding and influential social research with a valuable resource for future research and teaching on methods.
Black Mothers and Attachment Parenting
Authors: Hamilton Patricia
Published: December 2021

This outstanding work examines black mothers' engagements with attachment parenting and shows how it both undermines and reflects neoliberalism. Unique in its intersectional analysis, it fills a gap in the literature, drawing on black feminist theorizing to examine intensive mothering practices and policies.