bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of waste management interventions at the new District General Hospital, Hambantota
Authors: Ubeysekara V. G. S. C. , Dolamulla S. , Lokuhewagama D. K. , Karawita H.
Published: May 2024

Background: Healthcare waste management is a critical global issue and an effective waste management is essential to maintain a safe and hygienic healthcare environment. District General Hospital, Hambantota serves a significant population in the region and the hospital generates substantial medical waste including general non-hazardous waste, hazardous waste, infectious waste and recyclable waste.Objective: To assess the effectiveness of waste management interventions at the hospital and to provide recommendations for improving waste handling and disposal strategies.Methods: A comprehensive approach was adopted, involving a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. Surveys and direct observations assessed current practices and infrastructure, while interviews with healthcare professionals provided in-depth insights. Compliance with waste management regulations and guidelines was evaluated through document analysis.Results: Following the intervention, waste production per bed per day was significantly reduced from 2.03kg to 1.27kg, and most waste types showed a decrease in quantity.Conclusion: Following the intervention, waste production per bed per day was significantly reduced from 2.03kg to 1.27kg, and most waste types showed a decrease in quantity.
Project to Reduce the Teenage Pregnancies Through Health Education at MOH Level
Authors: Gajanayake C. , Withanage S. J. W. , Lakshima W. D. S. , Karunanayake A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Teenage pregnancy represents a persistent public health challenge with far-reaching consequences, particularly in regions like the Egodauyana MOH area within the Colombo RDHS. This highlights the urgent need for effective interventions to address this issue.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of school sexual and reproductive health education (SSRHE) as a public health awareness tool at the MOH level in reducing teenage pregnancies.Methods: This study involved the implementation of SSRHE programs in 12 high-risk schools. The target population consisted of students in grades 10 and above.Results: Result in 2021, a total of 75 teenage mothers had registered; 34 individuals (45.3%) belonged to Group 1, comprising teenage mothers attending school and residing in the area, while the remaining 41 individuals (54.7%) were classified under Group 2, encompassing non-resident teenage mothers. The age distribution revealed that 44 teenage mothers were aged 18–19 years, 28 were in the 16–17 age group, and three were under 16 years. In 2022, registered teenage pregnancies decreased to 68. Within this cohort, 17 individuals (26.5%) were classified as belonging to Group 1, while 51 individuals (73.5%) were categorized under Group 2. The age distribution revealed that 48 teenage mothers were aged 18–19 years, 16 were in the 16–17 age range, and four were under 16 years old. There was a statistically significant reduction in teenage pregnancies within Group 1 when compared to 2021 (p = 0.014). Conversely, Group 2 experienced a substantial increase (p = 0.0000) in teenage pregnancies.Conclusion: This study highlights the value of inclusive SSRHE programs in reducing teen pregnancies at the MOH level as a public health education tool.
Sub-fertility and life style factors which affecting sub-fertility among women in Regional Director of Health Service area, Colombo
Authors: Gajanayake C. , Munasinghe P. M. , Kalubowila K. C. , Gunathilake J. , Denawaka C. , Kahangamage D.
Published: May 2024

Background: Sub-fertility is one of the leading health issues with its economic and social implications in Sri Lanka and changes in lifestyles of the people have a great impact on it.Objective: To determine the association between selected lifestyle factors and sub-fertility among women in the Regional Director of Health Service area, Colombo.Methods: A case control study was conducted among sub-fertile (n=170) and fertile (n=340) women as case and control respectively. A pre-tested, structured interviewer administered questionnaire, which underwent face, content validity and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.8) was used. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, two-way ANOVA, independent sample t- test and odds ratio (OR) were performed.Results: The mean age at marriage was 25.1±3.1 years and 26.5±3 years for fertile and sub-fertile women, respectively. Level of education of both groups was not significantly different (p= 0.120, 95% CI). Islamic women have high fertility than others. Vigorous physical activities were significantly high among sub-fertile women (p=0.000; 95%CI 1.08-1.59). OR for passive smoking for fertile women was 1.3, (95%CI). Sub-fertile women experienced a lack of full restful sleep than fertile women (p=0.001, 95%CI) and majority of sub-fertile women (63.8%) recorded high levels of stress.Conclusion: Vigorous physical activities, exposure to passive smoking, lack of full restful sleep, and having high levels of stress have the negative effects on fertility. Therefore, counselling sessions for the sub-fertile couples and a sensitization programme for newly married couples on lifestyle factors by the primary health care staff are recommended.
Review article on Medication adherence
Authors: Abeysekara C. M. , Prasanthi K. K. N. , Jeyassuthan K. , Dharmadasa A. G. M. M.
Published: May 2024

No abtract available
Lessons Learned from the Past Pandemic Concept Note on Proposed Reforms of Care Pathways
Authors: Ranawaka N. , Nanayakkara R. , Jayatileka A. , Wimalagunarathne K. W. R. , Seralathan S. , Jeyassuthan K. , Panapitiya P. W. C.
Published: May 2024

No abstract available
Comparison of two percutaneous nephrolithotomy methods for the treatment of pediatric kidney stones: Mini-PCNL and standard PCNL
Authors: Karkin Kadir , Aydamirov Mubariz , Aksay Buğra , Kaplan Eyüp , Gürlen Güçlü , Altunkol Adem , Ortaoğlu Ferhat , Akgün Ömer Faruk , Vuruşkan Ediz , Gürbüz Zafer Gökhan
Published: May 2024

Objective: In this study, the aim was to compare the results of mini and standard percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) for the treatment of pediatric kidney stones.
Materials and Methods: Data for 128 patients < 18 years of age who underwent mini and standard PCNL due to pediatric kidney stones were retrospectively examined. Patients were divided into two groups: mini-PCNL (16-20 Fr) and standard PCNL (26 Fr). Surgery time, number of punctures to the pelvicalyceal system, hospital stay, postoperative hemoglobin drop, complications and stone-free status (SFR) were compared between the groups. Additional surgical intervention (double-J stent, ureterorenoscopy, secondary PCNL) performed after the surgery was recorded. The absence of residual stones or < 3 mm residual stones on kidney, ureter and bladder radiography (KUB) and ultrasonography (USG) performed in the third postoperative month were accepted as success criteria.
Results: There were 32 (43.8%) patients in the mini-PCNL group and 41 (56.2%) patients in the standard PCNL group. The mean age was 9.3 ± 4.1 years in the mini-PCNL group and 10.1 ± 5.4 years in the standard PCNL group. Mean stone size in the mini-PCNL group was 2.1 ± 1.2; while for standard PCNL it was 2.3 ± 1.4. The mean surgery time was statistically significantly higher in the mini-PCNL group (p = 0.005). There was no difference between the groups in terms of intraoperative double J stent use, postoperative complications and SFR. A double J stent was inserted in two patients in the mini-PCNL group and in one patient in the standard PCNL group due to urine leakage from the nephrostomy tract in the postoperative period. Although the postoperative hemoglobin drop was found to be significantly higher in standard PCNL (p = 0.001), hematuria and blood transfusion rates were low in both groups. Mean hospital stay was shorter in the mini-PCNL group compared to standard PCNL (3.6 ± 1.2 days vs. 2.5 ± 1.1; p = 0.018).
Conclusions: Although mini-PCNL has longer surgery time compared to standard PCNL, it should be preferred for the treatment of pediatric kidney stones due to advantages such as similar success and complication rates to standard PCNL, short hospital stay and less postoperative hemoglobin drop.
Clinical characteristics, imaging, and lung function among patients with persistent dyspnea of COVID-19: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Manglani Ravi , Fenster Moshe , Henson Theresa , Jain Ananth , Schluger Neil
Published: May 2024

The available medical literature on lung function and corresponding clinical characteristics among symptomatic survivors of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (long COVID) is sparse. Primary physicians referred patients who manifested persistent dyspnea months after their index case of infection to a designated clinic. Patients underwent symptom-driven, quality-of-life, physical, and focused respiratory [pulmonary function tests and computed tomography (CT) of the chest] evaluations and were followed over time. In this paper, we present our findings. Patients with abnormal CT imaging were more likely to be of advanced age and to have been hospitalized during their COVID-19 infection. Forced exhaled volume in the first second, forced vital capacity (FVC), total lung capacity, and diffusion capacity of carbon monoxide measurements were found to be significantly lower in patients with abnormal CT imaging. Multivariate regression of clinical characteristics uncovered a significant association between FVC, body mass index, history of hospitalization, and diabetes mellitus. In conclusion, longer-term studies will help further our understanding of the risk factors, disease course, and prognosis of long COVID patients.
FAIR reporting of clinical trials for public health practice
Authors: Balas E. Andrew , Bussi Bussi S. , Asem Noha , Amour Caroline , Mwanziva Charles , Vasquez Jose , Labib Nargis A. , Price Matthew , Mahande Michael J. , Baskar Rohitha , Dhantu Saidharshana , Townsend Tiffany G. , Aubert Clement
Published: May 2024

The number of clinical trials is rapidly growing, and automation of literature processing is becoming desirable but unresolved. Our purpose was to assess and increase the readiness of clinical trial reports for supporting automated retrieval and implementation in public health practice. We searched the Medline database for a random sample of clinical trials of HIV/AIDS management with likely relevance to public health in Africa. Five authors assessed trial reports for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed quality based on the FAIR principles of scientific data management (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable). Subsequently, we categorized reported results in terms of outcomes and essentials of implementation. A sample of 96 trial reports was selected. Information about the tested intervention that is essential for practical implementation was largely missing, including personnel resources needed 32·3% (.95 CI: 22·9-41·6); material/supplies needed 33·3% (.95 CI: 23·9-42·8); major equipment/building investment 42·8% (CI: 33·8-53·7); methods of educating providers 53·1% (CI: 43·1-63·4); and methods of educating the community 27·1% (CI: 18·2-36·0). Overall, 65% of studies measured health/biologic outcomes, among them, only a fraction showed any positive effects. Several specific design elements were identified that frequently make clinical trials unreal and their results unusable. To sort and interpret clinical trial results easier and faster, a new reporting structure, a practice- and retrieval-oriented trial outline with numeric outcomes (PROTON) table was developed and illustrated. Many clinical trials are either inconsequential by design or report incomprehensible results. According to the latest expectations of FAIR scientific data management, all clinical trial reports should include a consistent and practical impact-oriented table of clinical trial results.
The Imperative of Cognitive Diversity in Athletic Training Education: A Leadership Literacy
Authors: Kutz Matthew R. , Bates Trevor M.
Published: May 2024

Context

The increasing stakeholder diversity in athletic training requires a shift in leadership approaches and necessitates highlighting the need for embracing cognitive diversity.

Objective

Explore the concept of cognitive diversity and its potential to positively impact patient care and interprofessional practice.

Background

Cognitive diversity encompasses variations in unobservable attributes such as attitudes, values, and beliefs, including differences in problem-solving and thinking strategies. It goes beyond traditional diversity initiatives that focus on observable traits. Embracing cognitive diversity can enhance the effectiveness of diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives in athletic training, ultimately improving patient care.

Synthesis

Cognitive diversity serves as a prerequisite to effective diversity, equity, inclusion, and access initiatives. It offers advantages such as enhanced problem-solving, genuine inclusivity, increased access, and improved communication and collaboration. It fosters a culture of continuous learning, cultural sensitivity, and personalized care. Recognizing the nuances of cognitive diversity is crucial for effective interprofessional practice and empathetic patient care.

Results

This article delineates the necessity of cognitive diversity, highlighting the critical component of recognizing unobservable differences between individuals. Cognitive diversity benefits athletic trainers and advances the profession of athletic training through fostering genuine respect, collaboration, and teamwork.

Recommendation(s)

Cognitive diversity should be integrated into athletic training education as a prerequisite for clinical practice. Teaching only limited aspects of diversity—those that include observable differences between individuals—may reinforce avoidable biases. Faculty should include and develop curricula that introduce cognitive diversity early in professional preparation.

Conclusions

The increasing complexity of athletic training demands an evolution in leadership literacy that focuses on embracing cognitive diversity. Athletic trainers can apply the benefits of cognitive diversity through compassionate leadership, interprofessional activities, and an understanding of its interplay with cultural diversity. Educators should adapt curricula and continuing education to include cognitive diversity models.
Frequency and risk factors of retinopathy of prematurity: a 5-year single-center study in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Fattah Maaly Abdel , AlKhabaz Anas , Issa Ibrahim , Alhemsi Hadeel , AlSaad Kassem , AlMidani Eyad , Khan Faisal
Published: May 2024

Aim

Our study aimed to determine the frequency of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in a cohort of premature infants screened for ROP, to confirm the efficacy of our screening program used in the NICU to avoid childhood blindness. In addition, we aimed to study the associated risk factors affecting ocular status including birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA), mechanical ventilation, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and number of ROP follow-up.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted from March 2016 to March 2021. Data were retrieved from the records of preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit in King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The included data:

Comprised perinatal data such as sex, BW, GA, multifetal gestation, and delivery type.

Neonatal course: Need for surfactant, oxygen therapy, and mechanical ventilation (MV) duration.

Neonatal complications: Chronic lung diseases [(respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)], sepsis, neonatal jaundice, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), hydrocephalus, and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).

ROP examination: stage, zone, plus disease, extent, treatment, and number of the follow-up.

Results

In all, 337 preterm infants met the screening criteria and were included in the study. The majority (52%, n=177) were male; 148 (43.9%) were products of multifetal gestation, the mean GA was 29.35±2.77, and the median BW was 1195.1±338 gm. Caesarean section was the main mode of delivery in 80.5% of our sample (269 babies). ROP was detected in 181 (53.7%) infants, of which 110 (32.6%) had Stage 1, 57 (17%) Stage 2, and 14 (4.15%) had Stage 3. The majority (89.4%) were involved in zone 2–3, and five patients had the plus disease (1.48%). The number of ROP follow-up ranged between 2 and 25 visits either in the NICU or in the eye clinic following their discharge with a mean of 2.347.

Conclusion

The incidence of ROP in our sample was high relative to other local studies, which was related to the relatively high number of multifetal gestations with high chance of low birth weight as our center is an expert facility in in vitro fertilization. Male patient had a high incidence of development of different stages of ROP.

Preterm babies with complicated neonatal course like NEC, Chronic Lung Disease, and IVH had high incidence of development of ROP.
Epidemiology and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy in upper Egypt: a 3-year prospective study
Authors: Yousef Hassan S. , Ahmed Mohamed E. , Abu El Wafa Esam A. G. , Salih Mohamed A. K.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To determine the prevalence and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in adult diabetic patients during 3 years.

Patients and methods

This is a cross-sectional study that was carried out on the adult diabetic population who attended a large private referral ophthalmology center in Assiut City, Upper Egypt for 3 years. All cases were subjected to full history taking, ophthalmological examination, and dilated fundus examination for evidence of DR, and besides, the associated systemic complications were assessed.

Results

The study included a total of 2178 cases and the prevalence of DR was 18.2%. DR was more prevalent in females than males (67.9% vs. 32.1%). Also, DR was significantly associated with insulin use, moderate and poor control of diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension (HTN), dyslipidemia, and nephropathy (P<0.01 for all). The risk factors for DR were; older age (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.69; 95% CI =0.91–1.97; P≤0.01), female sex (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.21–1.86; P =0.02), smoking (AOR 1.73; 95% CI =1.41–2.11; P =0.02), longer duration of DM (> 15 years) (AOR 2.87; 95% CI =2.48–3.29; P ≤0.01), insulin use (AOR 1.42; 95% CI =0.94–1.65; P=0.03), poor control of DM (AOR 3.98; 95% CI =3.69–5.41; P≤0.01), presence of HTN (AOR 2.62; 95% CI =2.37–2.89; P≤0.01) and dyslipidemia (AOR 1.65; 95% CI =1.42–2.02; P=0.03).

Conclusion

The prevalence of DR in adult diabetic patients was 18.2% and the significant risk factors for DR (arranged descendingly in power) were; poor control of DM, longer duration of DM (> 15 years), presence of HTN, smoking, high age, dyslipidemia, female sex, and insulin use.
Age, body composition analysis, and gender differences of morbidly obese Omani subjects
Authors: Al-Maskari Juhaina , Al-Hadhrami Bader , Waly Mostafa I. , Al-Subhi Lyutha , Ali Amanat
Published: May 2024

Background: The World Health Organization has indicated that Gulf countries, including Oman, have the highest incidence of obesity. Objectives: This study aims to describe the changes in body composition values as an index among the morbidly obese population. We investigated the gender, age, and body mass index (BMI)-related differences in morbidly obese subjects. Methods: A retrospective, hospital-based study was carried out at the Royal Hospital, Muscat. Results: The study involved 104 morbidly obese subjects (35 males and 69 females) with a BMI ≥35 kg/m2. All enrolled study subjects were compared for their gender, BMI, and age. Significant trends were observed for body fat percentage, water percentage, muscle mass, basal metabolic rate, bone mass and visceral fat between different genders in general, and between different genders within the same age frame (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed within the same gender regarding changes in BMI and weight gain (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Aging and changes in BMI have a significant effect on the body composition of morbidly obese individuals of different genders while showing no significant effects within the same genders.
Intracranial Aneurysms in Makassar, Indonesia: Unveiling Rupture Risk Characteristics
Authors: Bahar Ashari , Salusu Santi , Kurnianto Ivan , Mardiana  , Fatahillah Laode , Hayyatunnufus  , Halim Wijoyo , Jaelani Amaludin
Published: May 2024

Background: The substantial illness and mortality resulting from subarachnoid hemorrhage are attributed to the rupture of an intracranial aneurysm (IA). Some researchers have suggested that IA morphology predicts rupture. The objective of this research was to assess the morphological attributes of both ruptured and unruptured aneurysms and determine the variables linked to a higher probability of rupture. We retrospectively gathered cases of IAs at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo General Hospital Makassar between January 2020 and December 2023 for this study. We obtained information from radiography, catheter lab, and patient medical records. We considered gender, age, locality, hypertension, and demographic traits. We assessed numerous morphological characteristics using three-dimensional angiograms, including the parent’s artery diameter, the maximum height, the dimensions of the aneurysm neck, the size ratio, the aspect ratio, the height–width ratio, and the existence of a daughter sac. We analyzed aneurysm features linked to aneurysm rupture using a cross-sectional methodology. Results: This research comprised a total of 68 individuals with IAs, with 48 patients having ruptured aneurysms and 20 patients having unruptured aneurysms. We observed substantial differences in aneurysm size (maximum aneurysm width), location, age, and hypertension between the groups with ruptured and unruptured aneurysms. We found a significant association between the risk of rupture and older age (56 ± 9.23; P = 0.048), hypertension (P = 0.003), and the location in Acom/Pcom (P = 0.001). The mean aneurysm size of the ruptured IAs (4.42 ± 1.97 mm) was significantly smaller than the unruptured IAs (8.64 ± 6.51 mm; P = 0.03). Conclusion: According to this study, even smaller aneurysms in Acom/Pcom patients with hypertension who are older are more likely to rupture.
A randomized clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of Arimedadi oil pulling in plaque-induced gingivitis and its effect on metabolic marker in gingival crevicular fluid
Authors: Sundari Shanmugha , Maradi Arun , Nisha Swet , Ganganna Aruna , Doddawad Vidya , S Sunitha
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Oil pulling has been used as an ancient technique to maintain oral health. It is associated with Ayurvedic medicine, and the agents used for oil pulling are mostly Ayurvedic drugs. Arimedadi oil is an Ayurvedic oil that has medicinal properties, and it has been used for maintaining oral hygiene. The present study evaluated the efficacy of Arimedadi oil in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis. Materials and Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial in which a total of 29 subjects diagnosed with gingivitis were enrolled. Group A received Arimedadi oil as oil-pulling therapy as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP), group B received SRP with chlorhexidine mouthwash, and group C received SRP with mint-flavored distilled water as placebo. All the groups were instructed to use the prescribed chemical agents for a duration of 1 month. Gingival Index, Plaque Index, and Modified Sulcular Bleeding Index were measured. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were also assessed. Results: The reduction in clinical parameters from baseline to 1-month follow-up was significant in all the three groups (P < 0.05). However, the mean difference in clinical parameters for group B was higher in the post-1-month follow-up results compared to groups A and C. PGE2 levels in GCF were significantly reduced in group B compared to groups A and C. Conclusion: Arimedadi oil pulling is an effective alternative in the treatment of plaque-induced gingivitis. It can be used as an adjunct to SRP.
Comprehensive Endurance Enhancing Effect of INDUS1710, a Composition of Standardised Fenugreek Seed Extracts, During Treadmill Running Exercise in Laboratory Rats
Authors: Thakurdesai Prasad Arvind , Deshpande Pallavi Onkar , Nimse Savita Raju , Sathiyanarayanan Arulmozhi
Published: May 2024

Background: Endurance, defined as the ability to sustain exercise, involves multiple organs and physiological processes. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate of INDUS1710, a composition of 4-hydroxyisoleucine, trigonelline, and select glycosides-based standardised fenugreek seed extracts, during treadmill running exercise (EXE) for endurance enhancement in laboratory rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups of 12 rats each and orally administered vehicle (distilled water, VC), INDUS1710 (20, 30, or 60 mg/kg), L-arginine (308 mg/kg), or vehicle for 28 days. All groups, except VC, underwent EXE without incline at a speed of 14 m/min for 6 days, followed by a speed of 20 m/min on the 7th day for 28 days until exhaustion. The physiological, functional, and metabolic parameters; relative organ weights; glycogen content of gastrocnemius muscle; and histological parameters of the heart were recorded. Results: Subacute supplementation with EXE of INDUS1710 resulted in a dose-dependent increase in time to exhaustion and prevented EXE-induced changes in organ function (heart, lungs, kidney, and liver), metabolic processes (carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids), and skeletal muscle glycogen content without causing pathological changes in skeletal or cardiac muscles. Conclusion: INDUS1710 supplementation with EXE showed comprehensive endurance enhancement efficacy and safety in laboratory rats.
The combination of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with pattern recognition techniques for classification and discrimination of red snapper fish oils
Authors: Irnawati Irnawati , Windarsih Anjar , Fadzillah Nurrulhidayah Ahmad , Rohman Abdul , Nadia La Ode Muhammad Hazairin , Arlana Sofia , Ruslin
Published: May 2024

Fish oils are good sources for essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids needed to human growth. Indonesia is rich in fish species and among this, red snapper fish (Lutjanus sp.) can be extracted to get red snapper fish oils (RSFOs). The aim of this study was to classify and discriminate RSFO from different origins using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and pattern recognition techniques. All of the RSFO’s FTIR spectra were very similar. The FTIR vibrations showed the presence of triglycerides as the main composition in fish oils. Principal component analysis (PCA) could separate the RSFO according to sample origin. Supervised pattern recognition of partial least square-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and sparse PLS-DA (sPLS-DA) successfully discriminated and classified different Lutjanus species of fish oils obtained from different origins. The vibration of functional groups at 1711, 1653, 1745, and 3012 per cm were considered for their important contributions in discriminating of Lutjanus species (variable importance in projection, variable importance in the projection score >1). Fish oils obtained from the same species were classified into the same class indicating similar chemical compositions. Among the three pattern recognition techniques used, sPLS-DA offers the best model for the discrimination and classification of Lutjanus fish oils. It can be concluded that FTIR spectroscopy in combination with the pattern recognition technique is the potential to be used for of fish oil authentication to verify the quality of the fish oils. It can be further developed as a rapid and effective method for fish oil authentication.
Immunoinformatic of novel self-amplifying mRNA vaccine lipid nanoparticle against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Fath Turmidzi , Bachtiar Endang Winiati , Alitongbieke Gulimiran , Pan Yutian , Hu Yuanqing , Widowati Retno
Published: May 2024

We developed innovative self-amplifying mRNA (sa-mRNA) vaccine based on the derivative of S and Nsp3 proteins, which are considered crucial adhering to human host cells. We performed B-cell, Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) I, and II epitope which were merged with the KK and GPGPG linker. We also incorporated 5ʹ cap sequence, Kozak sequence, replicase sequence, 3ʹ/5ʹ UTR, and poly A tail within the vaccine structure. The vaccine structure was subsequently docked and run the molecular dynamic simulation with TLR7 molecules. As the results of immune response simulation, the immune response was accelerated drastically up to >10-fold for immunoglobulin, interferon-γ, interleukin-2, immunoglobulin M (IgM) + immunoglobulin G (IgG) isotype, IgM isotype, and IgG1 isotype in secondary and tertiary dose, whereas natural killer cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells showed relatively high concentrations after the first dose. As our finding, the IgM + IgG, IgG1 + IgG2, and IgM level (induced by sa-mRNA vaccine) ensued three times with two-fold increase in days 25, and 50, then decreased after days 70–150. However, 150–350 days demonstrated constantly in the range of 20,000–21,000.
The effect of porang (Amorphophallus muelleri) extract on renal histopathological changes
Authors: Ricardo Evan , Novita Bernadette Dian , Suwasanti Niluh , Muliyanto Jovan Amadeo , Dewi I Gusti Agung Putu Diah Meliana , Jaya Ferdinand
Published: May 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition defined by elevated blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia). This condition can lead to complications such as nephropathy, which is histologically shown with glomerulosclerosis. Glucomannan, a component of Amorphophallus muelleri, offers numerous health benefits, but its direct therapeutic effect on glomeruli remains uncertain. Male Wistar rats which were taken with random sampling (n = 30) were distributed into six distinct groups. All groups, excluding Group N, received 125 mg/kg BW single intraperitoneal dose of alloxan. Group N received a single dose of PBS 125 mg/kg BW. After 7 days, Group K + was induced with acarbose at a dose of 50 mg/70 kg BW (adjusted using a factor of 0.018) orally per day. Groups N and K − induced with 1% CMC Na at 0.2 mL/0.1 kg orally per day. While Group P1, P2, and P3 were orally given A. muelleri ethanolic extract orally per day at a dose of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg BW. The following 50 days of treatment, the Wistar rats were euthanized, and their kidney was preserved for histological slides that were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The oral administration of A. muelleri ethanolic extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats led to a significant decrease in the average of glomerulosclerosis instances when compared to the K − group. The most effective dose was observed at 400 mg/kg BW per day. A. muelleri administration leads to a reduction in glomerulosclerosis occurrences, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic approach for reducing complications probability linked to hyperglycemia.
Effect of quercetin against pilocarpine-induced epilepsy in mice
Authors: Abdulsahib Waleed K. , Al-Radeef Mohanad Y.
Published: May 2024

Globally, an estimated 50 million people are affected by epilepsy, a persistent, noncommunicable neurological ailment. Quercetin (QR) is a prevalent flavonoid substance extensively dispersed throughout agricultural life. In a pilocarpine (PILO)-induced epilepsy model in mice, this investigation aimed to determine whether QR has an antiepileptic effect and explore its putative mechanism of action. Fifty mice were allocated into seven groups, with six in every group. The first group received physiological saline, the second group was given diazepam (1 mg/kg), and four groups were administered QR at 50, 100, 150, and 200 mg/kg, respectively. The seventh group (the induction group) received normal saline. After 30 min, all groups were injected intraperitoneally with PILO. The impact of QR on motor coordination was assessed using the rotarod test, while measures such as latency to first seizure, generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS), number of convulsions, and mortality were recorded. Serum samples were collected through the retro-orbital route to measure prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) levels. QR showed no significant difference in motor impairment, but increased duration until the initial seizure occurred and declined the mortality rate, duration of GTCS, and incidence of convulsions. All doses of QR significantly reduced PGE2 levels (P ≤ 0.05). However, QR’s effect on IL-1β reduction was statistically insignificant (P > 0.05). QR’s capacity to inhibit PILO-induced epilepsy by decreasing IL-1 and PGE2 levels is supported by this study. The results of this work indicate that QR could have a function to treat acute epilepsy.
Effects of subclinical hypothyroidism in type II diabetes mellitus patients on biochemical, coagulation, and fibrinolysis status
Authors: Atia Yasir Abbas , Mohammed Suhad Taha , Abdullah Sarmad S. , Abbas Ahmed Saad , Fawzi Hayder Adnan
Published: May 2024

The aim of the currnet study to examine the effect of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) in diabetic patients on coagulation parameters. This retrospective case–control study involves 130 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), divided into 65 T2DM with newly diagnosed SCH and 65 euthyroid (EUT) T2DM patients without SCH. Fibrinogen (FIB) was significantly higher in SCH (508.2 ± 63.0 mg/dL) than EUT (428.1 ± 44.8 mg/dL). In the SCH patients, FIB correlated with several parameters, such as age (β = 0.396), body mass index (β = 0.578), glycated hemoglobin (β = 0.281), and activated partial thromboplastin time (β = 0.276). In conclusion SCH in DM patients appears to increase the magnitude of coagulopathy.
Ebstein anomaly, a rare congenital cause of heart failure coexisting with Chiari network
Authors: Ojo Opeyemi Ezekiel , Dele-Ojo Bolade Folasade , Adeoti Adekunle Olatayo , Olaoye Olaniyi Olasunkanmi
Published: May 2024

Ebstein’s anomaly is a rare congenital condition that presents with an apical displacement of the tricuspid valve leaflets. Much rarer is its coexistence with Chiari network (CN), and only a very few cases had been documented in the literature. We report a 30-year-old man who presented with a 5-month history of progressively worsening abdominal distension with associated weight loss, easy fatigability, early satiety, and loss of appetite. A chest X-ray revealed cardiomegaly with right ventricular preponderance. A 12-lead electrocardiogram showed atrial fibrillation. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed apical displacement of the tricuspid valve, severe right atrial enlargement, a small right ventricle, atrialization of the right ventricle, and CN. A diagnosis of Ebstein anomaly coexisting with CN in atrial fibrillation was made. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of Ebstein’s anomaly coexisting with CN in Nigeria.
Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome with supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Folayan Olumuyiwa Shola , Agaja Oyinkansola Tolulope , Adebayo Bosede Ehelamioke , Ogunkunle Oluwatoyin O. , Omokhodion Samuel Ilenre
Published: May 2024

Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome is a congenital abnormality of the cardiac conducting system. In the general population, its prevalence is 0.15%–0.3%, with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) being the most common rhythm disorder associated with it. SVT is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in children that requires therapy. It occurs because an accessory conduction pathway allows atrioventricular impulses to reenter the normal conduction pathway, thus completing a circuit that stimulates the atrium and ventricle at a rapid rate. Symptoms are nonspecific but could be life-threatening in infants, necessitating prompt intervention and prophylaxis. Cardioversion by pharmacologic or synchronized direct current (DC) is indicated in life-threatening or refractory arrhythmias. We report a 16-month-old Nigerian girl who had WPW syndrome and developed SVT that required synchronized DC cardioversion.
Unravelling the therapeutic landscape of bile acid-based therapies in gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Alrehaili Bandar D.
Published: May 2024

Bile acids serve as endogenous ligands for nuclear and cell membrane receptors and play a crucial role in bile acid and lipid metabolism. These detergent-like compounds promote bile flow and aid in the absorption of dietary fats and fat-soluble vitamins in the intestine. Synthesized in the liver as end products of cholesterol catabolism, bile acids exhibit a chemical structure comprising a nucleus and a side chain featuring a carboxyl group, with diverse steric arrangements and potential polar substituents. Critical interactions occur between bile acid species and various nuclear and cell membrane receptors, including the farnesoid X receptor and G-protein–coupled bile acid receptor 1. This research aimed to review the literature on bile acids and their roles in treating different diseases. Currently, numerous investigations are concentrating on specific bile acid species that target nuclear receptors in the gastrointestinal system, aiming to improve the treatment of conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Given the global attention this topic has garnered from research groups, it is considered relatively new, thus anticipating some gaps or incomplete data. Bile acid species have a significant therapeutic promise, especially in their ability to activate or inhibit nuclear receptors, such as farnesoid X receptor. This research provides to offer essential information for scientists and medical practitioners interested in discovering new studies that underscore the importance of bile acids in ameliorating and impeding the progression of disorders. Furthermore, it opens avenues for previously overlooked bile acid–based therapies.
Prımary External Audıtory Canal Cholesteatoma
Authors: Güneri Enis Alpin , Korkmaz Kıvanç
Published: May 2024

External auditory canal (EAC) cholesteatoma is characterized by a bony defect in the auditory canal with a cystic structure lined by keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium and retention of keratin debris. Clinically, patients present with chronic dull pain, otorrhea, or conductive hearing loss. Lamellar keratin debris in a bony defect in the case of an intact tympanic membrane is highly suggestive of external ear canal cholesteatoma. It must be differentiated from keratosis obturans. The locally erosive and indolent nature of cholesteatoma in the bony external ear canal may result in complications due to erosion into adjacent structures such as mastoid cells, semicircular canals, fallopian canal, and temporomandibular joint. The treatment options include conservative therapy and surgery. In this case report, we presented a 75-year-old male with a primary left EAC cholesteatoma underlining the diagnostic and therapeutic features of this rare disease.
Connective Tissue Disorders in the Head and Neck: A Pertinent Review
Authors: Alabdulqader Abdullah A. , Almudawi Norah Abdullah , Bedaiwi Reenad H. , Alsayed Ahmed A. , Alshehri Waleed M. , Alqaryan Saleh K.
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to review the current literature on connective tissue disorders from a surgical standpoint. The Medline database was used to collect papers and reviews on the subject and it included only studies that were written in the English language. These papers were then read and written in a narrative - style pertinent review. The findings reveal that connective tissue disorders are a group of diseases that affect all components of the connective tissue, with various systemic manifestations , and their otolaryngologic manifestations are often similar and confusing. This article provides a comprehensive literature review of the otolaryngologic manifestations of connective tissue diseases, including their prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment. In conclusion, the otolaryngologist should be able to recognize these manifestations as indications of a systemic disease and use the information provided to determine the most appropriate evaluation and treatment.
A jamming power control game with unknown user’s communication metric
Authors: Garnaev Andrey , Trappe Wade
Published: May 2024

We consider a jamming problem in which a jammer aims to degrade a user’s communication in which the user might differ in applied applications or communication purposes. Such differences are reflected by different communication metrics used by the user. Specifically, signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) is used as a metric to reflect regular data transmission purposes. Meanwhile, as another metric, latency, modeled by the inverse SINR, is used to reflect emergency communication purposes. We consider the most difficult scenario for the jammer where it does not know which application (metric) the user employs. The problem is formulated as a Bayesian game. Equilibrium is found in closed form, and the dependence of equilibrium on network parameters is illustrated.
Hyperbolic one-relator groups
Authors: Linton Marco
Published: May 2024

We introduce two families of two-generator one-relator groups called primitive extension groups and show that a one-relator group is hyperbolic if its primitive extension subgroups are hyperbolic. This reduces the problem of characterizing hyperbolic one-relator groups to characterizing hyperbolic primitive extension groups. These new groups, moreover, admit explicit decompositions as graphs of free groups with adjoined roots. In order to obtain this result, we characterize

$2$

-free one-relator groups with exceptional intersection in terms of Christoffel words, show that hyperbolic one-relator groups have quasi-convex Magnus subgroup, and build upon the one-relator tower machinery developed in previous work of the author.
Moore matrices and Ulrich bundles on an elliptic curve
Authors: Buchweitz Ragnar-Olaf , Pavlov Alexander
Published: May 2024

We give normal forms of determinantal representations of a smooth projective plane cubic in terms of
Moore matrices
. Building on this, we exhibit matrix factorizations for all indecomposable vector bundles of rank

2

and degree

0

without nonzero sections, also called
Ulrich bundles
, on such curves.
From “Humble Things” to the “Great Dao”
Authors: Yang Xiaobo
Published: May 2024

China’s distinctive cricket culture—related to the insect, not the game—has given rise to a unique genre of texts known as “cricket books” (xishuai pu 蟋蟀譜). These texts, serving as instructional manuals for cricket-fighting, fall under the branch of pulu (譜錄) in traditional Chinese bibliography. Beyond scientific and technological merits, this genre has profound aesthetic and philosophical significance. Nurtured by the highly developed urban leisure culture of the Song dynasty, it embodies a philosophy of leisure. During the Ming dynasty, cricket books ultimately attained the esteemed title of “Classics” (jing 經) due to their profound philosophical resonance and embodiment of Confucian values. This article undertakes a philosophical exploration of these texts, aiming to unveil the embedded interpretative framework of Dao-Qi (道-器) in their examination of the colouration (se 色) and physiognomy (xiang 相) of crickets. This framework represents a fusion between Confucianism and Daoism: while Daoism embarks on a journey of transcendence from the very bottom (the most minute and humble things under Heaven, or weiwu 微物) to the very top (the “Great Dao”), Confucianism strives to bridge these two extremes through the emotion (qing 情) inherent in human hearts. This fusion can be aptly characterized as a philosophy of “emotion towards things” (ai wu 愛物). Moreover, this article addresses the challenges posed by modern society to traditional Chinese cricket culture, articulating concerns about the survival and revival of these time-honoured traditions in today’s technology-driven world.
Why Is “A White Horse Not a Horse”?
Authors: She Shiqin
Published: May 2024

This paper attempts a new reading of Gongsun Long’s “Baima lun”, through comparison with the Heidelberg School’s interpretation of Hölderlin’s “Being and Judgement” as a critique of self-consciousness and its judgmental form. It demonstrates that “Baima lun” correspondingly employs a reflectivity, or logic-transcending, anti-foundational perspective of “Being”, in order to undertake an ironical critique of judgment by a judgment as an illustration and confirmation of the epistemological ideas developed in “Zhiwu lun” and “Mingshi lun”. Consequently, based on the GSLZ, this paper proposes a new nominalist approach which differs from that of Hansen. Derived from further elaboration of the Heidelberg School’s interpretation of Hölderlin’s conception of Being, this paper posits that “things”, as read in “Mingshi lun”, are a specific dimension of “Being”, as singular infinity, and “name”, as superior to “zhi” or judgment in the rendering of things as criticized in “Zhiwu lun” and “Baima lun”.
Introduction
Authors: Ambrogio Selusi
Published: May 2024

This special issue of Asian Studies is dedicated to a relocation of Chinese thought outside of closed definitions and disciplines so as to return to this rich and varied tradition to its authentic, inclusive power. The introduction of Western systems of knowledge classifications, based on Melvil Dewey’s (1851‒1931) library system introduced in China in 1909, imposed entirely different models from the earlier imperial classifications. Moreover, the Dewey decimal model presents philosophy under nine categories (metaphysics; epistemology; parapsychology and occultism; psychology; logic; ethics; ancient, medieval, and eastern philosophy; modern Western philosophy), each with nine subcategories. Therefore the history of philosophy is split into two groups: thinking produced before the 19th century and that which followed. Eastern philosophy is actually the first subcategory of the first historical period (decimal no. 181). This view is highly conservative, and implies that Chinese and Indian philosophies are ancient but unprogressive and not rationally advanced compared to Western philosophy. It is perhaps unnecessary to say that this difference becomes irreconcilable when these Asian philosophies are compared with modern Western philosophy, as the supposedly pre-philosophical nature of non-Western philosophies is implied in the classification.
Prosolidarnościowy sekretarz? Tadeusz Fiszbach a NSZZ „Solidarność” Regionu Gdańskiego w latach 1980–1981
Authors: Brzeziński Piotr
Published: May 2024

The article describes the political activity of the First Secretary of the Voivodeship Committee of the Polish United Workers’ Party in Gdańsk, Tadeusz Fiszbach, in the early 1980s. The author analyzes the role played by this politician during the strikes of August 1980, describes his attitude towards the independent trade union and his policy towards “Solidarity” movement until martial law was introduced. It shows the complicated relations between the Gdańsk secretary and “Solidarity” against the background of the most important local and national events. He attempts to verify the still popular myth that Fiszbach was a silent ally of “Solidarity” working in the PUWP authorities in 1980–1981. The article is based on extensive archival research, literature on the subject and accounts of historical witnesses, including several interviews conducted by the author with Tadeusz Fiszbach himself.