bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily versus intermittent iron supplementation among children with iron deficiency anemia: A meta-analysis
Authors: Alblewi Sawsan Mohammed
Published: November 2024

Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to investigate daily versus intermittent iron supplementation among children.
Methods: The author searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar for randomized controlled trials and compared daily versus intermittent iron supplementation. The keywords iron deficiency anemia, iron therapy, daily, twice per week, and once weekly were used. The search was limited to the period January 2012 up to November 2023. The age of participant range from two months to 18 years.
Result: Out of the 735 studies, 540 were eligible after removal of duplication, of them, 28 full texts were screened and only 10 studies were included. Daily iron supplementation was better in improving hemoglobin odd ratio, 0.41, 95 CI, 0.38-0.44, Z=26.53, and p-Value <0.001 than intermittent prescription odd ratio, 0.69, 95 CI, 0.67-0.72, Z=49.98, and P-value < 0.001.
Conclusion: Daily supplementation increased hemoglobin more compared to weekly or twice/week among children with iron deficiency anemia. Further larger studies assessing tolerance and compliance are needed.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10344
How to cite this: Alblewi SM. Daily versus intermittent iron supplementation among children with iron deficiency anemia: A meta-analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2732-2738. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10344
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Correlation between serum levels of cyclooxygenase-2, aquaporin-1, pepsinogen I, gastrin-17 and pathological features of Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Li Danping , Qian Xiaoqiong , Li Cong , Shi Song
Published: November 2024

Objective: To explore the association between the levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), aquaporin-1 (AQP1), pepsinogen I (PGI), and gastrin-17 (G17) and pathological features of laryngeal cancer (LC).
Methods: Clinical data of 120 patients with LC, treated in Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from May 2022 to May 2023, as well as 120 healthy individuals who underwent physical examinations during the same period, were retrospectively analyzed. Serum levels of COX-2, AQP1, PGI, and G17 of LC patients and the healthy cohort were compared, and their association with pathological features of LC was investigated.
Results: LC was associated with significantly higher serum levels of COX-2, AQP1, and G17 and lower of PGI compared to the control group (P<0.05). Levels of COX-2, AQP1, and G17 positively correlated with the tumor, node and metastasis (TNM) staging, infiltration depth, and the lymph node metastases, and negatively correlated with the degree of differentiation (P<0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between the level of PGI and TNM staging, infiltration depth, and lymph node metastases. PG1 also positively correlated with the degree of differentiation (P<0.05). Area under curve (AUC) of combined COX-2, AQP1, PG-I, and G17 was significantly higher than that of each index alone (P<0.05).
Conclusions: Levels of COX-2, AQP1, PGI, and G17 showed significant association with specific pathological features of LC. Serum levels of COX-2, AQP1, PGI, and G17 have certain predictive value for LC, and the combined predictive value of these four indicators is higher than that of a single indicator.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10417
How to cite this: Li D, Qian X, Li X, Shi S. Correlation between serum levels of cyclooxygenase-2, aquaporin-1, pepsinogen I, gastrin-17 and pathological features of Laryngeal Cancer. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2675-2680. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10417
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Efficacy of 0.05% Cyclosporine-A eye drops (II) and 3% Diquafosol ophthalmic solution in the treatment of dry eye after cataract surgery
Authors: Lu Hongwei , Zhang Shuangmei , Shao Chenjun , Chen Pengfei , Ma Minting , Hao Yuhua
Published: November 2024

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) eye drops (II) and 3% Diquafosol ophthalmic solution (DQS) in the treatment of dry eye (DE) after cataract surgery (CS).
Methods: Clinical data of 123 patients with DE after CS treated at the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from June 2022 to August 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were divided into three groups based on the treatment: Conventional group (tobramycin & dexamethasone eye drops combined with pranoprofen eye drops, n=41), DQS group (3% DQS based on the conventional treatment, n=42), and CsA group (0.05% CsA eye drops(II) based on the conventional treatment, n=40). The therapeutic effects; Schirmer I test (SIt), tear film breakup time (TBUT), levels of serum inflammatory factors, and tear cytokine levels before and after treatment were compared between the groups.
Results: Chief complaint score, conjunctival congestion score, corneal fluorescein staining score, and ocular surface disease index score of the DQS group and the CsA groups were significantly lower than those of the conventional group (P<0.05). After treatment, the improvement in SIt, TBUT, serum inflammatory factors, and tear cytokine levels in the DQS group and the CsA group was significantly better than that in the conventional group (P<0.05). However, these indexes were comparable in the DQS and the CsA group (P>0.05).
Conclusions: Compared to the conventional treatment alone, the addition of 3% DQS or 0.05% CsA eye drops (II) to the conventional treatment both are effective and might more effectively alleviate DE in patients undergoing CS.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10607
How to cite this: Lu H, Zhang S, Shao C, Chen P, Ma M, Hao Y. Efficacy of 0.05% Cyclosporine-A eye drops (II) and 3% Diquafosol ophthalmic solution in the treatment of dry eye after cataract surgery. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2689-2694-. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.10607
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Exploring the quality of life of pediatric trainees: Mixed-method explanatory design
Authors: Hashmi Hina Mumtaz` , Pethani Asma , Saeed Sana , Saleem Ali Faisal
Published: November 2024

Objective: Healthcare workers are at a higher risk of burnout. The aim of the study was to explore the professional quality of life (QOL) i.e. {Compassion Satisfaction (CS), Burnout (BO) and Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS)} and association of different trainee factors on QOL amongst Pediatric specialty trainees at a private tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.
Methods: By using a mixed methods explanatory design, pediatric trainees experience of the prior year was measured in 2019 and 2020 through a predefined scale at Aga Khan University Hospital, Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL), followed by focused group discussions. Mean sums of CS, BO and STS were the primary measures assessed and the associations of different trainee factors were to explore experiences of Pediatric trainees towards the residency program, themes and subthemes were created after focused group discussions
Results: We surveyed a total of 118 pediatric responses (n=60 and n=58) during two years. Trainees from both years showed similar moderate level for mean sum of scores for all three components; CS, BO and STS. No significant association was observed with gender, place of living or year of residency. Opinions and perceptions of the trainees in qualitative analysis revealed both positive and negative impacts on the quality of life of the trainees.
Conclusion: This study delves into the professional quality of life and offers valuable understanding into the specific events encountered by trainees.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.6853
How to cite this: Hashmi HM, Pethani A, Saeed S, Saleem AF. Exploring the quality of life of pediatric trainees: Mixed-method explanatory design. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2695-2701. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.6853
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Is an 8 mm cutoff necessary when performing primary common bile duct closure after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration?
Authors: Shen Danfeng , Chang Peng , Xu Haibin , Xu Hongxing , Lu Yingchao
Published: November 2024

Objective: To evaluate whether the efficacy and safety of primary duct closure(PDC) was limited to patients with a wider common bile duct(CBD) (≥8 mm).
Methods: A retrospective study of patients who underwent PDC after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) at Taicang Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University from March 2012 to June 2019 was performed. Fifty-five patients were enrolled and classified into two groups according to the diameter of the CBD: the wider group (Group-W, CBD diameter≥8 mm, n=36) and the slender group (Group-S, CBD diameter<8 mm, n=19). The clinical data were compared and analysed.
Results: No significant difference in the mean operative time, mean hospital stay or mean total charge was observed. Bile leakage occurred in 5.26%(1/19) of patients in Group-S, which accounted for only 1.81% (1/55) of total patients. There were no severe complications or mortality in either group. No significant differences in the rate of stone recurrence were observed. No biliary stricture occurred during follow-up.
Conclusions: PDC may not be limited by the slender CBD (<8 mm), and the proper selection of patients and the standard surgical procedure are particularly important.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9441
How to cite this: Shen D, Chang P, Xu H, Xu H, Lu Y. Is an 8 mm cutoff necessary when performing primary common bile duct closure after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration?. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):2632-2642. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9441
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
A rare case of incarcerated obturator hernia in an elderly female: Importance of timely diagnosis and choice of surgical intervention – open or laparoscopic
Authors: Resanovic Vladimir , Resanovic Aleksandar , Loncar Zlatibor
Published: November 2024

Obturator hernia is a rare clinical condition, mainly affecting the elderly and frail patients. It is often challenging to diagnose, and carries a significant morbidity and mortality risk. We aim to highlight the importance of timely and adequate diagnosis followed by early intervention that can be done as open or laparoscopic. Furthermore, through a literature review, we intend to compare two types of surgical approaches (open vs. laparoscopic). Herein, we present the case of an 83 years old female admitted as an emergency with right lower quadrant, colicky abdominal pain, followed with nausea, vomiting and constipation. Computed Tomography (CT) scan revealed a right-sided incarcerated obturator hernia with proximal bowel distension. Emergency surgery was performed, emphasizing the importance of early intervention to prevent bowel necrosis and the need for bowel resection; due to asthma we opted for open approach. Intraoperatively, a right-sided incarcerated obturator hernia was confirmed, with a segment of small bowel herniating through the obturator canal. We discuss the role of CT scanning in diagnosis, the necessity of prompt surgical management, and the possibility of open and laparoscopic approaches through a literature review. The choice between open and laparoscopic approaches should be individualized, considering the patient’s clinical status and the potential risks and benefits of each technique. Further research comparing the long-term results of open versus laparoscopic repair in incarcerated obturator hernia is something to be explored in the efforts of achieving the highest standards of patient care and maximizing the chances for an optimal treatment outcome.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9994
How to cite this: Resanovic V, Resanovic A, Loncar Z. A rare case of incarcerated obturator hernia in an elderly female: Importance of timely diagnosis and choice of surgical intervention – open or laparoscopic. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(11):-2755-2758.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.11.9994
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Middle byzantine basilicas in the historic region of Macedonia
Authors: Αρβανιτίδου Ιωάννα
Published: November 2024

Αφετηρία αυτής της έρευνας ήταν η παρουσία μεσοβυζαντινών βασιλικών σε διάφορα μέρη της Ελλάδας. Για να έχουμε πιο ακριβή αποτελέσματα, επικεντρώσαμε την έρευνά μας στην περιοχή της ιστορικής Μακεδονίας. Μετά από μια αρχική έρευνα, εξαιρέθηκαν σημαντικά μνημεία όπως οι βασιλικές της Βέροιας και των Σερρών, που ήταν οι πρώην μητροπόλεις των πόλεων αυτών. Σύμφωνα με τις τελευταίες μελέτες, οι υπάρχουσες βυζαντινές βασιλικές σε αυτές τις τοποθεσίες χτίστηκαν πάνω από παλαιότερες βυζαντινές βασιλικές. Στόχος της παρούσας έρευνας ήταν ο προσδιορισμός της χρήσης του αρχιτεκτονικού τύπου της βασιλικής σε μια συγκεκριμένη ιστορική περίοδο, απαλλαγμένη από προηγούμενες επιρροές. Εστιάζοντας σε αυτό, η συμβολή στην ιστορία της αρχιτεκτονικής γίνεται πιο ξεκάθαρη. Όταν ένα νέο κτίριο κατασκευάζεται πάνω από ένα παλαιότερο, συχνά ακολουθεί την κάτοψη της προηγούμενης κατασκευής, ειδικά στην περίπτωση σημαντικών κτιρίων όπως οι μητροπόλεις πόλεων. Ως εκ τούτου, στόχος ήταν η διερεύνηση κτηρίων που κατασκευάστηκαν κατά τη Μεσοβυζαντινή περίοδο.
Exploring acenocoumarol and silodosin as allosteric EGFR inhibitors for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Maity Swastika , Baby Krishnaprasad , Byregowda Bharath Harohalli , Vithalkar Megh Pravin , Nayak Usha Y , Pai K Sreedhara Ranganath , Nayak Yogendra
Published: November 2024

Background Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a highly morbid disease. Chemotherapy for NSCLC lacks specificity and efficacy mainly because of drug resistance. The current study aimed to explore computational tools to target allosteric epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) sites and screen for the top molecules in vitro and in vivo xenograft models. Methods Molecular docking, virtual screening, and molecular dynamic studies revealed that acenocoumarol and silodosin are the top two allosteric EGFR inhibitors. They were further tested for cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell cycle, and gene expression by qPCR, western blotting, A549 cell xenograft anti-proliferative activity, and tumor regression efficacy analysis. Results Acenocoumarol and silodosin exhibited cytotoxicity in A549 and IMR-90 cells at concentrations below 50 and 80 μM, respectively. Acenocoumarol and silodosin induced S-phase and G2/M-phase arrest in A549 cells in the cell cycle analysis. Both drugs showed early apoptosis at their IC50 doses (acenocoumarol 50 μM and silodosin 25 μM). KRAS (Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homolog) and ERK2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2) gene regulation in A549 cells was confirmed using qPCR. KRAS and ERK2 activities were quantified by western blot analysis. In the xenograft study, tumor size, body weight, and organ weight were significantly attenuated by the test drugs compared with the standard cisplatin. Immunoblotting and western blot results of the A549-xenograft tissue indicated downregulation of KRAS and ERK2. Furthermore, the test drugs have upregulated caspase-3 gene expression. Conclusion The drugs acenocoumarol and silodosin downregulate KRAS and ERK2 both in cell line and in Xenograft model. KRAS and ERK2 are associated with EGFR inhibition. Hence, acenocoumarol and silodosin can be further explored for repurposing studies in human trials.
History and philosophy of science
Authors: Lipskiy Boris
Published: November 2024

The textbook is devoted to the problems of philosophy of science, including its civilizational aspects, as well as the history of the emergence and development of scientific knowledge since ancient times. It concludes with the disclosure of the conceptual foundations of the philosophy of science, which influenced the formation of the methodology of scientific research. It is included in the cycle of educational and professional disciplines necessary for passing the candidate's minimum exam.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For graduate students of philosophical and general humanitarian specialties of the first year of study studying the discipline "History and Philosophy of Science".
Industrial ecology
Authors: Nikiforov Leonid
Published: November 2024

The textbook examines the issues of industrial ecology that future engineers will deal with in the course of their work. The article provides general information on environmental protection, basic information from regulatory documents. Much attention is paid to the protection of atmospheric air from emissions of pollutants, the treatment of industrial and surface wastewater, and waste disposal.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for students of food universities studying in technical areas of training and specialties. It will be useful for engineering and technical staff.
State Service of the Russian Federation
Authors: Ovsyannikov Yuriy
Published: November 2024

The textbook has been prepared in accordance with the federal state educational standards of higher education of the last generation in the field of Law, reveals the content of public law institutions: the concept, system and principles of public service; the basics of the legal status of a civil servant; rules for admission to public service and changes in public service relations. It characterizes the conditions of public service, the procedure for the formation of the personnel of the civil service, the termination of public-service relations, as well as the rules of official discipline and anti-corruption in the activities of civil servants.
The training material corresponds to the changes in the current legislation and the practice of its implementation. The textbook includes test tasks and recommended literature.
It is intended for students studying in the fields of Law and Public and Municipal Administration, graduate students, teachers of law schools and faculties, as well as deputies of representative bodies, state and municipal employees.
Actual problems of coercion and liability in administrative law
Authors: Admiralova Irina , Kostennikov Mihail , Kurakin Aleksey
Published: November 2024

The monograph draws attention to the police function of the state, in the context of which coercive measures and liability are applied. The essence of coercion in administrative law is also considered, the system of coercion and responsibility in administrative law is revealed, attention is paid to the problems of administrative and disciplinary responsibility. Some actual problems of the implementation of administrative responsibility, administrative penalties and disciplinary penalties are disclosed.
It is intended for scientific and pedagogical workers, as well as for use in scientific and scientific activities of legal educational organizations.
Perspectiva de expertos sobre las contribuciones de la empresa colombiana a la construcción de paz
Authors: Grueso Hinestroza Merlin Patricia , Olis Barreto Irma María , Pulido Rojas Rocío Carolina , Vargas Durango María Alejandra
Published: November 2024

Aunque no existe un marco claro de referencia para analizar el impacto de la empresa en la construcción de paz, se ha observado cómo esta apoya el fortalecimiento de la democracia al participar en procesos de paz o diplomacia. Asimismo, ha llevado a cabo acciones de desarrollo social y económico y de reconciliación, creando oportunidades de empleo y respaldando emprendimientos. Incluso, ha contribuido a la construcción de memoria histórica y a la promoción de los derechos humanos. Objetivos: Destacar el papel de la empresa como agente para superar los conflictos, y resaltar cómo su contribución en la construcción de paz es relevante. Metodología: Estudio cualitativo, con un enfoque descriptivo que narra de manera inductiva, sistemática y detallada los datos de una situación específica, resaltando sus variables y objeto de estudio. En este caso particular, se analizan las contribuciones de la empresa colombiana en la construcción de paz y los aspectos más relevantes. Resultados: Se identificaron definiciones sobre construcción de paz; relevancia del enfoque territorial, una particularidad de Colombia; rol del sector privado en la construcción de paz y aliados no empresariales; sectores empresariales; obstáculos y oportunidades; valores corporativos y capacidades; casos de éxito y de fracaso, y recomendaciones.
El rol de las fundaciones empresariales en la construcción de paz en Colombia desde la prensa (2000-2020)
Authors: Serrano Cárdenas Lizeth Fernanda , Gómez Miranda Óscar Mauricio , Olis Barreto Irma María , Grueso Hinestroza Merlin Patricia , García González Andrea , Vargas Durango María Alejandra , Medici Alecto
Published: November 2024

Pese a la importancia de la contribución de las fundaciones empresariales (fe) a la paz en Colombia, los diferentes roles que han desempeñado no se han estudiado con suficiente profundidad desde la perspectiva académica. Analizarlos permitirá establecer agendas de trabajo y revelar los retos que supone para las fundaciones, el seguir consolidándose como un actor de enlace que favorezca el impacto de la inversión privada en retos sociales complejos, como aquellos que se entrelazan alrededor de la paz. Objetivo: Analizar el rol de las fe en la construcción de paz en Colombia. Metodología: Análisis de contenido para estudiar 104 artículos de prensa que abordaban temas de construcción de paz, que fueran liderados por fe y publicados de forma digital en el periodo 2000-2020, en diferentes medios de comunicación. De forma complementaria, se agregaron por bola de nieve, otras fe que se mencionaban en las noticias extraídas en la indagación inicial. La información se procesó siguiendo un enfoque deductivo, bajo el lente de seis categorías analíticas justificadas en el marco teórico. Se utilizaron matrices analíticas que permitieron codificar cada una de las noticias descargadas y organizar los hallazgos. Resultados: Se documentaron hechos que permiten comprender, desde una mirada más amplia, los retos que supone la paz y el papel de los diferentes actores en este proceso; asimismo, se evidenció el doble papel que asume el Estado en este escenario: por un lado, se presentan investigaciones que lo plantean como un actor que facilita la paz; por otro, otras que han visibilizado un papel en acciones que agudizan las tensiones en el marco del conflicto.
Integrating Analytics Competencies with Operations and Supply Chain Functional Excellence at the University of South Carolina
Authors: Ahire Sanjay L. , Ferguson Mark
Published: November 2024

The Management Science Department at the Darla Moore School of Business (the University of South Carolina) is the winner of the prestigious 2024 INFORMS UPS Smith Prize. Along with the contemporary offerings in business analytics, our focus on functional excellence in the operations and supply chain domain represents a novel approach to producing analytics-savvy business graduates. In this article, we describe the architecture of the two programs and highlight the academic-industry collaboration innovations that have by their nature and scale led to unprecedented career outcomes for our graduates and benefited our industry partners in multiple ways.
A Model of Shoppertainment Live Streaming
Authors: Gu Zheyin (Jane) , Zhao Xuying , Wu D. J.
Published: November 2024

“Shoppertainment” live streaming, a blend of entertainment and product selling, is becoming increasingly popular. In shoppertainment sessions, streamers face bandwidth constraints so balance between providing product information and entertainment (such as singing, dancing, and storytelling). We conceptualize a shoppertainment live streamer as a novel type of online retail platform that maximizes total commissions from selling a range of manufacturer products. Our study investigates how streamers can leverage entertainment bandwidth as a long-term strategy to influence manufacturers’ pricing decisions and consumers’ attendance, as well as purchasing behaviors. Our model reveals several intriguing findings. First, we find that higher entertainment bandwidth encourages more manufacturers to adopt a demand-oriented, low-pricing strategy to attract buyers rather than a margin-oriented, high-pricing strategy that appeals only to buyers who perceive a high likelihood of finding a suitable product. Second, we observe that an increase in entertainment bandwidth initially boosts consumer traffic to shoppertainment sessions, but this trend may reverse once the bandwidth becomes excessively high, indicating an inverted U-shaped relationship. Conversely, the streamer’s expected profit per attending consumer first decreases and then increases with higher entertainment bandwidth, forming a U-shaped relationship. Third, our results suggest that a commission-maximizing streamer facing bandwidth constraints should not exclusively focus on providing product information. Instead, it is advantageous to allocate significant bandwidth to entertainment, even with limited entertaining capability, and potentially beneficial to dedicate all bandwidth to entertainment if the capability is substantial. Lastly, we demonstrate that the streamer’s quality threshold moderates the impact of entertainment bandwidth on these dynamics.

This paper was accepted by David Simchi-Levi, information systems.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.01724 .
The real world experience of tolvaptan use in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Heath Yuki , Borrows Sarah , Foggensteiner Lukas , Hirano Keita
Published: November 2024

The outcome of Tolvaptan use in the polycystic kidney disease clinic mirrors the outcome of pivotal data
Chronic kidney disease and cognitive impairment
Authors: Ellis Peter
Published: November 2024

Peter Ellis details the link between chronic kidney disease and cognitive impairment and what this can mean for kidney care professionals
Comparison of Safety Outcomes of Topical Capsaicin-Loaded Niosome and Capsaicin Gel in Healthy Volunteers
Authors:   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand, Samseethong Tipada ,   Innovation in Drug and Extract of Agriculture (IDEA) Research Group, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand, Duangjit Sureewan ,   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand,   Innovation in Drug and Extract of Agriculture (IDEA) Research Group, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand, Sritananuwat Phaijit ,   Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand,   Innovation in Drug and Extract of Agriculture (IDEA) Research Group, Ubon Ratchathani University, Ubon Ratchathani 34190, Thailand
Published: November 2024

Capsaicin is a crucial molecule from chili that is approved by the Thai FDA for relieving joint and muscle pain. However, skin irritation causes 40% of patients to withdraw from treatment. To assess the effect of the niosome formulation on reducing side effects, this prospective study compared the safety outcomes of 0.025% capsaicin-loaded niosome (CLN), capsaicin-gel (CG), and placebo in 75 healthy volunteers. The physicochemical characteristics of CLN formulation were evaluated before applying to volunteers. CLN exhibits an average vesicle size of 246.70 nm with 238.06 ± 11.26 µg/mL of capsaicin. CG is a commercial product. Capsaicin formulations were blindly administered to the upper arm of the volunteers three times a day at 4-hour intervals. The safety outcomes were measured by skin erythema and melanin content using a colorimeter and pain score before and after application at times 0, 4, 8, and 24 hours after the first administration for the skin before application (baseline), and placebo. CLN significantly increased skin erythema with scores of 8.39 ± 1.88 and 6.46 ± 2.15 when applied at 0 and 4 hours. In contrast, CG achieved significant increases for all 3 times of applications, with scores of 9.87 ± 2.08, 7.99 ± 2.32, and 6.78 ± 1.47 when applied at 0, 4, and 8 hours respectively. CG treatment significantly increased erythema scores after 24 hours compared to the baseline and placebo (P<0.01), while CLN had no effect. CG and CLN showed a significant increase in pain after 24 hours when compared to the baseline (P<0.05). The study suggests that CLN could be safer for the capsaicin-loaded formulation, causing less irritation and potentially reducing melanin content.
Student Perspectives on Using the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction to Enhance Outcomes
Authors: Alsaeed Abdulaziz H. , Shogren Karrie A. , Scott LaRon A. , Taylor Josh P. , Raley Sheida K. , Henley Ryan C. , Zagona Alison L. , McDonald Annette F. , Hagiwara Mayumi
Published: November 2024

Research shows that there is a close relationship between the promotion of self-determination and positive school outcomes, including academic goal attainment outcomes in general education classes. However, research is needed to investigate how students perceive the impacts of evidence-based self-determination interventions, like the Self-Determined Learning Model of Instruction (SDLMI), when delivered by their general education teachers. Interviews were conducted with 10 students with and without disabilities who received SDLMI instruction from teachers in secondary general education classrooms. Qualitative content analysis was used to understand students’ experiences with the SDLMI and its impacts on their self-determination and academic learning. Participants shared ways that the SDLMI positively impacted their self-determination and academic learning outcomes. Students identified the impacts of providing opportunities and supports for self-determined learning in their classrooms. They also identified other factors that influence their self-determination and the use of the SDLMI for goal setting and attainment. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
“Ci sarà allegria, anche in agonia”: la costruzione discorsiva del Balkanismo nei blog di viaggi italiani
Authors: Vučenovic Nataša
Published: November 2024

Abstract: In linea con il quadro teorico del Balkanismo elaborato da Maria Todorova, per illustrare come i Balcani tendano a essere percepiti come l’“Altro” d’Europa, in questo articolo esaminiamo come vari elementi di questa narrazione siano riprodotti nel discorso dei blog di viaggi italiani. Per analizzare come si costruisce il discorso sui Balcani, utilizziamo l’analisi del discorso, in particolare l’approccio della psicologia discorsiva. I risultati indicano che nei blog si sovrappongono vari elementi spesso contraddittori del Balkanismo: l’immagine esotica e romanticizzata di un ponte tra il mondo orientale e occidentale si intreccia con l’immagine dei Balcani visti come la parte oscura e inconscia d’Europa, dominata da istinti primitivi e irrazionali. Inoltre emerge che le diversità multi-etniche e multiculturali dei Balcani, agli occhi dei viaggiatori italiani, non sono percepite come un difetto ma come un valore aggiunto. Quest’idea si contrappone al discorso delle ideologie nazionalistiche prevalenti nella penisola balcanica.
Serological survey in a university community after the fourth wave of COVID-19 in Senegal
Authors: THIAM Fatou , DIOUARA Abou Abdallah Malick , NDIAYE Clemence Stephanie Chloe Anoumba , DIOUF Ibrahima , KEBE Khadim , SENGHOR Assane , DJOUMOI Djibaba , MBAYE Mame Ndew , DIOP Idy , SANE Sarbanding , COUNDOUL Seynabou , TENE Sophie Deli , DIOP Mamadou , DIENG Abdou Lahat , NDIAYE Mamadou , SALL Saidou Moustapha , DIOUF Massamba , NGUER Cheikh Momar
Published: November 2024

A cross-sectional survey was conducted at Polytechnic High School (PHS) to assess the spread of COVID-19 infection among students and staff. A random cluster sampling was conducted between May 19 and August 18, 2022, after the fourth wave of COVID-19 in Senegal. IgM and IgG SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were screened using WANTAI SARS-CoV-2 ELISA assays. Seroprevalence and descriptive statistics were calculated, and associations between seropositivity and different factors were determined using logistic regression. A total of 637 participants were recruited and the median age was 21 years [18–63]. 62.0% of the participants were female, and 36.89% were male, with a male-to-female ratio = 0.59. The overall IgG and IgM seroprevalence were 92% and 6.91% respectively. Among those who tested positive for IgM, 6.75% were also positive for IgG, and 0.15% were negative for IgG. Interestingly, 6.90% of participants tested negative for both IgM and IgG. We found a higher IgM seroprevalence in men than women (9.4% vs. 5.6%) and a lower IgM seroprevalence in (18–25) age group compared to (55–65) years. We revealed a significant difference according to IgG seroprevalence among participants who declared fatigue symptoms [92.06% (95% CI: 89.96–94.16)] compared to those who did not [80.39% (95% CI: 77.31–83.47)], p = 0.0027. IgM seropositivity was found to be associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) categories (O.R. 0.238, p = 0.043), ethnic group (O.R. 0.723, p = 0.046), and marital status (O.R. 2.399, p = 0.021). Additionally, IgG seropositivity was linked to vaccination status (O.R. 4.741, p < 0.001). Our study found that most students and staff at PHS were exposed to SARS-CoV-2, confirming the virus’s circulation at the time of the survey. We also identified differences in individual susceptibility that need further clarification. Our results highlight the importance of seroepidemiological surveys to assess the true impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in a community and to monitor variations in antibody response.
A free-living, walking-based, exercise programme, with exercise timed relative to breakfast, to improve metabolic health in people living with overweight and obesity: A feasibility study
Authors: Barrett Jennifer S. , Crozier Anthony , Cuthbertson Daniel J. , Strauss Juliette A. , Wagenmakers Anton J. M. , Shepherd Sam O.
Published: November 2024

Optimising the timing of food intake relative to exercise may maximise the effectiveness of free-living exercise programmes on improvements in glycaemic control and cardio-metabolic health. This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a free-living, walking-based exercise programme and determine whether undertaking each exercise session before or after breakfast would most benefit longer-term metabolic health. Thirty-four people living with obesity (43±12 y, BMI 35.1±5.1 kg.m-2) undertook a 12-week walking-based programme, consisting of two continuous (30–60 min at 50% HRmax) and two interval exercise sessions per week (30–60 min, alternating 3 min at 85% HRmax and 3 min at 50% HRmax). Participants were allocated to exercise before (FASTED) or after (FED) breakfast (n = 17 per group). Feasibility (acceptability, adherence and compliance) to the exercise intervention were assessed, as well as changes in anthropometric variables, 24-hour continuous glucose monitoring, serum biochemistry including HbA1c, lipid profile and liver transaminases. Exercise adherence (FASTED: 93±4%, FED: 95±5%) and compliance (FASTED: 85±10%, FED: 88±10%) was high in both groups, and participants described exercise monitoring, programme structure and support as facilitators to this. Body mass, BMI, waist-to-hip ratio and HbA1c decreased similarly between groups (all P<0.01). However, serum ALT concentrations decreased after FASTED (-16± -14%; P = 0.001), but not FED training (-2 ± -4%; P = 0.720). We demonstrate that a free-living walking-based exercise programme, with exercise timed relative to breakfast can achieve high adherence and compliance and improve some anthropometric variables and HbA1c. Whether FASTED exercise can elicit greater improvements in liver health requires further investigation.
Simple indices of infarct size post ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) provides similar risk stratification to cardiac MRI
Authors: Sharma Lokesh , Faour Amir , Nguyen Tuan , Dimitri Hany , Vo Giau , Otton James , Burgess Sonya , Juergens Craig , French John
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Myocardial Infarct Size (IS) determined soon after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has prognostic significance, and can be assessed by cardiac biomarker levels, electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters, and imaging modalities (including echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging [CMRI]).

Objectives and methods

We evaluated methods of IS assessment, 12-lead ECG Selvester QRS scores and high-sensitivity Troponin T (hsTnT) levels measured ≥48hr (plateau phase of hsTnT elevation), compared to paired CMRIs and echocardiograms, in a prospective cohort of patients with STEMI undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) during the index hospitalisation. Associations were determined between IS, as assessed by these methods, and 24-month major adverse cardiac events (MACE), a hierarchical composite of: death, stroke and hospitalization for heart failure.

Results

Of 233 patients undergoing early CMRI after STEMI, 211 patients (86% male; 54% anterior MI) had first STEMIs, median age 56 years [interquartile range 50–64], of whom 165 (78%) underwent primary PCI and 46 (22%) pharmaco-invasive PCI. Ejection fraction improved from 48% [42–54] acutely to 52% [44–60] at 2 months (p< 0.05). Plateau phase hsTnT levels, QRS scoring and CMRI-determined IS post-STEMI correlated for anterior MIs (all comparisons r>0.4, p<0.01); highest tertiles of these 3 parameters predicted 24 month MACE (log-rank <0.01). Multi-variable binary logistic regression analysis showed 72h hsTnT levels predicted 24-month MACE (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Post-PCI treatment of STEMI, hsTnT levels measured ≥48h and Selvester QRS scoring correlated with CMRI-determined IS. These parameters predicted MACE at 24 months and should be routinely assessed for post-STEMI risk stratification.
Comparing dual oral agents plus insulin vs. Triple oral agents in uncontrolled type II diabetes: A pilot study
Authors: Gul Nadia , Rehman Inayat Ur , shah Yasar , Ali Arbab Muhammad , Ali Zahid , Shehzad Omer , Goh Khang Wen , Ming Long Chiau , Suleiman Amal K.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Type II Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients often do not achieve glycemic control with oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs). There are two main approaches to address this challenge: transitioning to a triple OHA regimen, or adding Insulin to the existing dual OHA regimen.

Aim

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of adding Insulin to dual OHAs (Sitagliptin + Metformin) against adding a third OHA to Sitagliptin + Metformin in achieving glycemic control among patients with uncontrolled T2DM.

Method

A pre-post study was conducted between 21 September 2023 and 21 December 2023 at Services Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan. Patients with uncontrolled T2DM with >7% HbA1c were divided into group 1 (Sitagliptin + Metformin plus a third OHA), and group 2 (Sitagliptin + Metformin plus pre-mixed Insulin 70/30). Glycemic control based on HbA1c values, fasting and random blood sugar levels, lipid profile, and body weight were evaluated after 3 months of therapy. The pre- and post- effect was compared by using a paired t-test.

Results

The study included n = 80 patients with T2DM. Between groups 1 and 2, no significant difference was found in HbA1c values (9.1 vs. 9, with p = 0.724). However, BMI, cholesterol, and LDL significantly decreased in group 1 compared to group 2 (p<0.001 vs. p = 0.131, p = 0.023 vs. p = 0.896, and p = 0.003 vs. p = 0.395, respectively). Additionally, the incidence of hypoglycemic episodes was significantly lower in group 1 (7.5%) than in group 2 (47.5%, p = 0.004). No significant difference was observed between the triple OHA and dual OHA plus Insulin regimens in achieving glycemic control.

Conclusion

The triple OHA regimen improved BMI, cholesterol, and LDL levels, and reduced hypoglycemic episodes more effectively than dual OHA plus Insulin, despite similar HbA1c outcomes, suggesting it may be preferable for uncontrolled T2DM.
Rural drinking water supply program and societal development: Evidence from the early implementation phase of India’s Jal Jeevan Mission
Authors: Singh Abinash , Naik Gopal
Published: November 2024

With a community-centric approach to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6.1, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) launched in 2019, aims to improve the living standard of rural communities by addressing various issues related to rural drinking water supply system. The literature evaluating rural water supply programs in India is sparse. Emphasizing the large-scale implementation of the mission, we utilized sample survey data and multiple linear regression models to investigate whether or not access to household water tap connections has succeeded in reducing the burden of drinking water collection on women and female children in rural regions. Overall, our findings suggest moderate attainment of JJM even at a very early stage, whereas the positive achievements are reflected in terms of reducing the burden of water collection on women. Further, a higher probability of wealth-related inequity favoring advantaged groups was found in the coverage of household water tap connections both in pre- and initial-JJM period. Our study suggests ground-level strengthening of the rural drinking water supply system for achieving an equitable and sustainable outreach of the program across the country.
Clinical staff reported knowledge on the existence of clinical governance protocols or tools utilised in selected South African hospitals
Authors: Sithole Nomfuneko , Chitha Wezile W. , Mnyaka Onke R. , Ncinitwa Akhona B. A. , Nomatshila Sibusiso C. , Ntlongweni Xolelwa , Maake Kedibone , Mkabela Bongiwe E. , Khosa Ntiyiso V. , Ngcobo Ziyanda B. , Chitha Nombulelo , Masuku Khanyisile , Mabunda Sikhumbuzo A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Clinical governance outlines duties and responsibilities as well as indicators of the actions towards best possible patient outcomes. However, evidence of outcomes on clinical governance interventions is limited in South Africa. This study determined knowledge of clinical staff about the existence of clinical governance protocols/tools that are utilised in selected South African hospitals.

Methods

A cross-sectional study conducted among randomly sampled clinical staff at Nelson Mandela Academic (NMAH), St Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape Province and, Rob Ferreira (RFH) and Themba Hospitals in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. A self-administered survey questionnaire was used to collect demographic information and quality improvement protocols/tools in existence at the hospitals. Data were captured in Excel spreadsheet and analysed with STATA. Knowledge was generated based on the staff member’s score for the 12 questions assessed.

Results

A total of 720 participants were recruited of which 377 gave consent to participate. Overall, 8.5% (32/377) of the participants got none or only one correct out of the 12 protocols/tools; and 65.5% (247/377) got between two and five correct. The median knowledge scores were 41.7% (interquartile range (IQR) = 16.7%) in three of the hospitals and 33.3% (IQR = 16.7%) at NMAH (p-value = 0.002). Factors associated with good knowledge included more than five years of experience, being a professional nurse compared to other nurses, not working at NMAH as well as being a medical doctor or pharmacist compared to other staff. Overall, 74.0% (279/377) of the respondents scored below 50%; this was 84.4% (92/109) at NMAH and 66.3% (55/83) at RFH and this difference was statistically significant (p-value = 0.017).

Conclusion

Despite clinical governance implementation, there was low knowledge of clinical governance protocols/tools among clinical staff. Therefore, providing more effective, relevant training workshops with an emphasis on importance of local ownership of the concept of clinical governance, by both management and clinical staff is of great importance.
Data cleaning and harmonization of clinical trial data: Medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder
Authors: Balise Raymond R. , Hu Mei-Chen , Calderon Anna R. , Odom Gabriel J. , Brandt Laura , Luo Sean X. , Feaster Daniel J.
Published: November 2024

Several large-scale, pragmatic clinical trials on opioid use disorder (OUD) have been completed in the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network (CTN). However, the resulting data have not been harmonized between the studies to compare the patient characteristics. This paper provides lessons learned from a large-scale harmonization process that are critical for all biomedical researchers collecting new data and those tasked with combining datasets. We harmonized data from multiple domains from CTN-0027 (N = 1269), which compared methadone and buprenorphine at federally licensed methadone treatment programs; CTN-0030 (N = 653), which recruited patients who used predominantly prescription opioids and were treated with buprenorphine; and CTN-0051 (N = 570), which compared buprenorphine and extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) and recruited from inpatient treatment facilities. Patient-level data were harmonized and a total of 23 database tables, with meticulous documentation, covering more than 110 variables, along with three tables with “meta-data” about the study design and treatment arms, were created. Domains included: social and demographic characteristics, medical and psychiatric history, self-reported drug use details and urine drug screening results, withdrawal, and treatment drug details. Here, we summarize the numerous issues with the organization and fidelity of the publicly available data which were noted and resolved, and present results on patient characteristics across the three trials and the harmonized domains, respectively. A systematic harmonization of OUD clinical trial data can be accomplished, despite heterogeneous data coding and classification procedures, by standardizing commonly assessed characteristics. Similar methods, embracing database normalization and/or “tidy” data, should be used for future datasets in other substance use disorder clinical trials.