bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Castration on the Sexual Life in Young Women at the National Institute of Oncology of Rabat, Morocco
Authors: Abdi Chaimae , Bekkouche Soukaina , Hachlaf Mariem , Lemsyeh Hajar , Omri Loubna , Lkhoyaali Sihame , Boutayeb Saber , EL GHISSASSI Ibrahim , M’rabti Hind , Er-rihani Hassan
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Castration, also referred to as hormonal suppression, is generally understood as the halt of hormone production by the ovaries in premenopausal women. This can occur through medical means, such as the administration of LH-RH agonists or antagonists that act reversibly on the hypothalamic- pituitary axis, or through surgical or radical methods that permanently eliminate hormonal production. Castration is primarily recommended for premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Regardless of the approach used, it produces side effects akin to those experienced during menopause, including hot flashes, anxiety, depressive disorders, and trophic changes that may affect sexual function. Thus, our study seeks to investigate the effects of castration on sexual life in our patients undergoing treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out at a day hospital to assess the effects of mainly medical, but also surgical and radical castration on couple dynamics in 50 patients, averaging 40 years of age, who are being treated for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, regardless of whether it is localized or metastatic. Results: The majority of patients report experiencing side effects associated with castration, especially hot flashes, which affect nearly all patients, as well as depressive and anxiety disorders. However, it remains challenging to determine whether these issues are directly linked to the disease or its treatment. Additionally, many patients face sexual disturbances, including decreased libido and vaginal dryness, which significantly impact couple dynamics in almost 50% of cases. Conclusion: Investigating the effects of castration on sexuality, particularly regarding couple dynamics, highlights a significant yet sensitive topic. This issue, often considered taboo, represents a major side effect of prolonged treatment in long-term survivors. Therefore, it is essential to engage in regular discussions and collaborate with specialists, especially sexologists, to enhance tolerance and achieve lasting improvements in quality of life.
Interlinking Biophotons, Consciousness, and Life: An Analytical Exploration
Authors: Al Hasan S.A.M Mahmood
Published: October 2024

Biophotons, ultra-weak light emissions produced by living organisms, have garnered attention for their potential roles in cellular communication and the broader implications for consciousness and collective existence. This study reviews the research surrounding biophoton emissions, the principles of collective consciousness, and the interactions that may enhance individual and community well-being. By synthesizing insights from biophoton research with theories on collective consciousness, this paper aims to explore the interconnectedness of life and propose practical applications for fostering positive group dynamics.
Reassessment of the Aesthetics of Reception: Convergences and Epistemological Ruptures in the Field of Information and Communication Sciences
Authors: Benjamin Joël Ngwaba
Published: October 2024

This article examines the epistemological foundations of reception aesthetics, highlighting the contributions of the Constance School, in particular the concept of the horizon of expectation. It analyzes how these ideas have been adapted to contemporary studies in information and communication sciences to study the reception of modern media. It evaluates its current applications, identifies its limits and epistemological ruptures in the field of information and communication sciences, and proposes a reevaluation of its concepts in the light of recent developments in reception studies.
Mathematical Concepts in Graphic Design
Authors: Chadha Dev
Published: October 2024

Graphic design involves the creation of visual content to effectively convey information to an audience. Concurrently, mathematics encompasses the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns, serving as the fundamental basis for various fields, including design. Despite the apparent disparity between these two disciplines, they are intertwined in multiple ways, giving rise to a potent amalgamation. This review paper aims to delve into the correlation between graphic design and various mathematical concepts and theories.
Farm Mechanization Innovation Capacity and Rice Productivity: Evidence from Small Scale Rice Farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Abiola Adebunmi Olarinre, , Adedolapo Kemi Ajala, , Muibat Omolara Ganiyu,
Published: October 2024

Rice is a staple diet eaten by more than fifty percent of households in the whole world. There is a deficit currently in the demand- supply production of rice when carefully observed and this is traceable to the use of crude implements and traditional methods of farming. It is to this effect that this study addresses farm mechanization innovation and rice productivity using small scale rice farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. A total of 261 rice farmers were used for this study out of which only 78 rice farmers adopted the farm mechanization innovation while 183 rice farmers did not. The focus group discussion (FGD) employed revealed that majority of the rice farmers do not have capacity for farm mechanization, hence the low adoption of the innovation. The FGD revealed that 65.90percent of the rice farmers had medium innovation capacity, 28.74percent had low innovation capacity and 5.36percent had high innovation capacity. Employing the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) method to evaluate the impact of farm mechanization on the productivity of rice farming households in Kwara State, Nigeria; the rice farmers that adopted the use of farm mechanization have a higher productivity of 12.68 kg/m2 as against the rice farmers who do not adopt the use of farm mechanization in their farming activities with their own productivity standing at 6.31kg/m2 . This outcome implies that farm mechanization has a positive impact on the productivity of the farmers. It is therefore recommended that quality extension services be put in place in the study area on the benefits of adopting farm mechanization. Also, the government should provide machineries for lease to the rice farmers so as to boost their productivity.
Varicosities in Pregnancy
Authors: Saranya M.
Published: October 2024

Varicose vein is a dilated swelled leg veins with back flow of blood caused by incompetent valve closure which result in venous congestion and vein enlargement. It usually affects the saphenous vein and its branches. The condition may be worsening with menstrual cycle, with pregnancy and response to exogenous hormonal therapy( oral contraceptives).It deals about the causes of varicosities and how it occurs in pregnancy. Varicosities had different signs and symptoms which occurs during the time of delivery and also had preventive treatment alternative remedies and safe treatment option after pregnancy in varicose vein.
Radio Scrutiny of the X-Ray-weak Tail of Low-mass Active Galactic Nuclei: A Novel Signature of High-Eddington Accretion?
Authors: Paul Jeremiah D. , Plotkin Richard M. , Brandt W. N. , Ellis Christopher H. , Gallo Elena , Greene Jenny E. , Ho Luis C. , Kimball Amy E. , Haggard Daryl
Published: October 2024

The supermassive black holes (M
BH ∼ 106–1010
M
⊙) that power luminous active galactic nuclei (AGNs), i.e., quasars, generally show a correlation between thermal disk emission in the ultraviolet (UV) and coronal emission in hard X-rays. In contrast, some “massive” black holes (mBHs; M
BH ∼ 105–106
M
⊙) in low-mass galaxies present curious X-ray properties with coronal radiative output up to 100× weaker than expected. To examine this issue, we present a pilot study incorporating Very Large Array radio observations of a sample of 18 high-accretion-rate (Eddington ratios L
bol/L
Edd > 0.1), mBH-powered AGNs (M
BH ∼ 106
M
⊙) with Chandra X-ray coverage. Empirical correlations previously revealed in samples of radio-quiet, high-Eddington AGNs indicate that the radio–X-ray luminosity ratio, L
R/L
X, is approximately constant. Through multiwavelength analysis, we instead find that the X-ray-weaker mBHs in our sample tend toward larger values of L
R/L
X even though they remain radio-quiet per their optical–UV properties. This trend results in a tentative but highly intriguing correlation between L
R/L
X and X-ray weakness, which we argue is consistent with a scenario in which X-rays may be preferentially obscured from our line of sight by a “slim” accretion disk. We compare this observation to weak emission-line quasars (AGNs with exceptionally weak broad-line emission and a significant X-ray-weak fraction) and conclude by suggesting that our results may offer a new observational signature for finding high-accretion-rate AGNs.
An Analysis of the Complex and Compact Outflow Cavity Carved by HOPS 361-A in NGC 2071 IR
Authors: Karnath Nicole , Rubinstein Adam E. , Federman Samuel , Quillen Alice C. , Green Joel D. , Chambers Edward T. , Watson Dan M. , Megeath S. Thomas , Coudé Simon , Justen Matthias , Narang Mayank , Goldman Steve , Tobin John J.
Published: October 2024

We present a combined Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) and two-epoch Hubble Space Telescope (HST) study of the region NGC 2071 IR containing the outflow from the protostar HOPS 361-A (NGC 2071 IRS 1). New [O i] 63 μm spectra, taken with the German REciever for Astronomy at Terahertz frequencies (GREAT) instrument aboard SOFIA, trace the outflow, spectrally resolve line profiles, and give radial velocities of the far-IR emission to yield 3D kinematics, shock properties, and feedback properties. Proper motions and extinction values from HST give a more complete quasi-3D picture that we use to model shock speeds and densities. We identify 14 distinct features that show proper motions. Combined with the GREAT data, we estimate that HOPS 361-A has a mass outflow rate of 3.16 × 10−6
M
⊙ yr−1 with shock speeds up to 51 km s−1. The outflow force summed over all knots per area is measured to be 1.45 × 10−4
M
⊙ km−1 s−1 yr−1 and a power summed over all knotsper area of 2.37 × 10−2
M
⊙ s−3 dissipated assuming constant

M

̇

, with large uncertainties on the feedback values. The total [O i] luminosity using all SOFIA apertures encompassing the HOPS 361 clump is 0.7 L
⊙, corresponding to a mass outflow rate of 7 × 10−5
M
⊙ yr−1. This is the second 3D kinematic study of an outflow in NGC 2071 IR in the near- and far-IR regimes following Rubinstein et al. (2023). The SOFIA [O i] spectra add unique focus to the entrained gas connecting the recent episode of outflows from HOPS 361-A to the outflow cavity and the surrounding NGC 2071 IR star-forming environment.
Multiwavelength Investigation of γ-Ray Source MGRO J1908+06 Emission Using Fermi-LAT, VERITAS and HAWC
Authors: Acharyya A. , Adams C. B. , Bangale P. , Bartkoske J. T. , Benbow W. , Buckley J. H. , Christiansen J. L. , Chromey A. J. , Duerr A. , Errando M. , Falcone A. , Feng Q. , Foote G. M. , Fortson L. , Furniss A. , Hanlon W. , Hanna D. , Hervet O. , Hinrichs C. E. , Holder J. , Humensky T. B. , Jin W. , Kaaret P. , Kertzman M. , Kieda D. , Kleiner T. K. , Korzoun N. , Kumar S. , Lang M. J. , Lundy M. , Maier G. , McGrath C. E , Millard M. J. , Millis J. , Mooney C. L. , Moriarty P. , Mukherjee R. , Ning W. , Ong R. A. , Park N. , Pohl M. , Pueschel E. , Quinn J. , Rabinowitz P. L. , Ragan K. , Ribeiro D. , Roache E. , Ryan J. L. , Sadeh I. , Saha L. , Sembroski G. H. , Shang R. , Splettstoesser M. , Talluri A. K. , Tucci J. V. , Valverde J. , Vassiliev V. V. , Weinstein A. , Williams D. A. , Wong S. L. , Woo J. ,   The VERITAS Collaboration, Alfaro R. , Alvarez C. , Arteaga-Velázquez J. C. , Avila Rojas D. , Babu R. , Belmont-Moreno E. , Bernal A. , Caballero-Mora K. S. , Capistrán T. , Carramiñana A. , Casanova S. , Cotzomi J. , Coutiño de León S. , De la Fuente E. , Depaoli D. , Di Lalla N. , Diaz Hernandez R. , DuVernois M. A. , Espinoza C. , Fan K. L. , Fang K. , Fraija N. , García-González J. A. , Garfias F. , González M. M. , Goodman J. A. , Groetsch S. , Hernández-Cadena S. , Hinton J. , Huang D. , Hueyotl-Zahuantitla F. , Iriarte A. , Kaufmann S. , Kieda D. , Lee J. , León Vargas H. , Longinotti A. L. , Luis-Raya G. , Malone K. , Martínez-Castro J. , Matthews J. A. , Miranda-Romagnoli P. , Morales-Soto J. A. , Moreno E. , Mostafá M. , Nellen L. , Pérez-Pérez E. G. , Rho C. D. , Rosa-González D. , Salazar H. , Sandoval A. , Schneider M. , Serna-Franco J. , Son Y. , Springer R. W. , Tibolla O. , Tollefson K. , Torres I. , Torres-Escobedo R. , Turner R. , Ureña-Mena F. , Varela E. , Wang X. , Zhou H. ,   The HAWC Collaboration, Eagle J. , Kumar S. ,   The Fermi-LAT Collaboration
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the origin of the γ-ray emission from MGRO J1908+06 in the GeV–TeV energy band. By analyzing the data collected by the Fermi Large Area Telescope, the Very Energetic Radiation Imaging Telescope Array System, and High Altitude Water Cherenkov, with the addition of spectral data previously reported by LHAASO, a multiwavelength study of the morphological and spectral features of MGRO J1908+06 provides insight into the origin of the γ-ray emission. The mechanism behind the bright TeV emission is studied by constraining the magnetic field strength, the source age, and the distance through detailed broadband modeling. Both spectral shape and energy-dependent morphology support the scenario that inverse Compton emission of an evolved pulsar wind nebula associated with PSR J1907+0602 is responsible for the MGRO J1908+06 γ-ray emission with a best-fit true age of T = 22 ± 9 kyr and a magnetic field of B = 5.4 ± 0.8 μG, assuming the distance to the pulsar d
PSR = 3.2 kpc.
An Eddington-limited Accretion Disk Wind in the Narrow-line Seyfert 1 PG 1448+273
Authors: Reeves J. N. , Braito V. , Luminari A. , Porquet D. , Laurenti M. , Matzeu G. , Lobban A. , Hagen S.
Published: October 2024

PG 1448+273 is a luminous, nearby (z = 0.0645), narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxy, which likely accretes close to the Eddington limit. Previous X-ray observations of PG 1448+273 with XMM-Newton in 2017 and NuSTAR in 2022 revealed the presence of an ultrafast outflow, as seen through its blueshifted iron (Fe) K absorption profile, where the outflow velocity appeared to vary in the range 0.1−0.3c. In this work, new X-ray observations of PG 1448+273 are presented, in the form of four simultaneous XMM-Newton and NuSTAR observations performed in 2023 July and August. The X-ray spectra appeared at a similar flux in each observation, making it possible to analyze the mean 2023 X-ray spectrum at high signal-to-noise ratio. A broad (σ = 1 keV) and highly blueshifted (E = 9.8 ± 0.4 keV) Fe K absorption profile is revealed in the mean spectrum. The profile can be modeled by a fast, geometrically thick accretion disk wind, which reveals a maximum terminal velocity of v
∞ = −0.43 ± 0.03c, one of the fastest known winds in a nearby active galactic nucleus. As a result, the inferred mass outflow rate of the wind may reach a significant fraction of the Eddington accretion rate.
Application of Outcome-Based Education Instructional Theory Based on Artificial Intelligence in the Design and Practice of Research Curriculum
Authors: Wang Xia , Yang Liyan
Published: October 2024

Research curriculum design is to arrange instructional links in an orderly manner in the course of teaching according to the requirements of course standards and the characteristics of instructional objects,so as to determine the plan of appropriate instructional scheme.The establishment of a reasonable assessment system of teachers' instructional level aims at correctly and reasonably distinguishing the differences of instructional level among teachers,enabling excellent teachers to discover their own advantages in time so as to improve their own shortcomings.Based on the concept of Outcome-based education,this article puts forward a instructional assessment model based on big data from the perspective of the education of new media.In the application effect,it can be seen that with the support of OBE instructional theory,students' creative ability and practical ability are obviously improved.The application of ANN in instructional level assessment is completely feasibleand it can meet the accuracy requirements,providing assistance for the design and practice of research curriculums.
Contrastive Representation Learning With Mixture-of-Instance-and-Pixel
Authors: Cheng Dan , Yin Jun
Published: October 2024

Contrastive learning has remarkable transfer learning capabilities. But many current methods are pretrained based on instance-level or pixel-level pretext tasks, resulting in representations lacking local or global information. This paper proposes contrastive representation learning with mixture-of-instance-and-pixel learning, contrastive mixture of instance and pixel, which can adaptively aggregate the global and local information to better guide representation learning. Specifically, at the instance level, for multiple data augmentations of images, multiple momentum encoders are used for feature extraction to use more negative samples in each iteration process. At the pixel level, feature map multiplication is used to aggregate spatial features. Experiments show that contrastive mixture of instance and pixel can be well transferred to image-level prediction and pixel-level prediction tasks and do not require large training batches. It achieves 70.9 Acc@1, 56.8 AP, 75.4 mIoU, 39.4/34.2 AP on ImageNet linear classification, Pascal Visual Object Classes object detection, Cityscapes semantic segmentation, Microsoft Common Objects in Context object detection, and instance segmentation.
Solar Radiation Prediction Model Based on Spatial Attention Mechanisms and Sun Position Feature Maps
Authors: Guan Rui , Cui Chenggang , Zhang Hanning
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a novel method for predicting solar radiation by focusing on the sun's position and cloud conditions in the sky. The proposed approach utilizes sun position feature maps and spatial attention mechanisms to improve the accuracy of solar irradiance prediction. Key contributions include the development of sun position feature maps to precisely locate the sun in all-sky images and the integration of spatial attention mechanisms with convolutional neural networks to enhance predictive modeling. Comparative analysis with three other models demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed approach, particularly in overcast conditions. These innovative techniques significantly enhance the accuracy of solar radiation prediction and offer valuable insights for the design and operation of renewable energy systems.
Clinical validation of the early embryo viability assessment system: Analysis for the blastocyst morphology and pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Hop Vu D , Cuong An M , Anh Phi T T , Huong Nguyen T L , Hoang Le , Hanh Nguyen V
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To determine the relationship between the early embryo viability assessment (EEVA) and blastocyst morphological parameters and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study was conducted on 291 intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles including 2 522 embryos with indications of prolonging embryo culture to the blastocyst stage in the Genea embryo review incubator, and 511 single vitrified- warmed blastocyst transfer cycles from January 2020 to June 2023. The EEVA system produced an EEVA score from E1 (best) to E5 (worse) for the potential of blastocyst formation. Blastocyst morphology was evaluated. The association between the EEVA score and each type of blastocyst morphology, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy were assessed using generalized estimating equations.

Results:

The inner cell mass A (ICM A), trophectoderm A (TE A), blastocoele expansion degree of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 rates were higher with lower the EEVA score. The adjusted odd ratio (aOR) (E5 vs E1) was 0.3 for ICM A, 0.174 for TE A and 0.210 for BL3, 4, 5, 6, 7 (all P<0.001), suggesting a significant association between lower EEVA scores and improved embryo quality. The implantation, clinical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy rate were also higher with lower the EEVA score. The aOR of E5 vs E1 was 0.245 for implantation, 0.185 for clinical pregnancy and 0.200 for ongoing pregnancy rate (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

There were associations between blastocyst morphology, pregnancy outcome and EEVA scores. The good blastocyst morphology and pregnancy outcomes are higher with lower the EEVA score.
N-acetylcysteine and zinc sulphate abate di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate-mediated reproductive dysfunction in rats: Focus on oxidative and sex hormone receptors mechanisms
Authors: Emojevwe Victor Oghenekparobo , Oyovwi Mega Obukohwo , Adewole Kayode Ezekiel , Ohwin Peggy Ejiro , Akinola Adeniran Oluwadamilare , Naiho Alexander Obidike , Nwangwa Eze Kingsley , Omo-Idonije Victor , Lade-Ige Motunrayo , Ben-Azu Benneth
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To investigate the potential of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) in mitigating reproductive dysfunction caused by di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) in rats and to understand the underlying mechanisms, specifically oxidative stress and sex hormone receptor activity.

Methods:

Thirty-five male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five equal groups (n=7 per group). Group 1 was administered 0.5 mL of distilled water and served as the control group. Group 2 was given only DEHP (750 mg/kg/day), while group 3, 4 and 5 were given DEHP (750 mg/kg/day) plus NAC (100 mg/kg/day), DEHP (750 mg/kg/day) plus ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day), and DEHP (750 mg/kg/day) plus NAC (100 mg/kg/day) as well as ZnSO4 (0.5 mg/kg/day), respectively. All treatments lasted for 21 days. Samples were obtained after the rats were sacrificed, and hormones levels in the serum and markers of oxidative stress in the testicles were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The amount of androgen receptors in the testicles was determined by immunohistochemistry, and the susceptibility of testosterone and DEHP to bind to androgen receptor and 5α-reductase was determined by molecular docking studies.

Results:

DEHP decreased reproductive hormones, testicular antioxidant enzymes, increased malondialdehyde levels, and negatively impacted histology of the pituitary and testes. NAC or ZnSO4 treatment showed a marked improvement in testicular antioxidant status and hormone levels, as well as a positive effect on the histology of the pituitary and testes. The combination of both treatments appeared to be more effective. The affinity of DEHP to bind to androgen receptors may lead to disruption of androgen receptor signaling, which can further result in dysfunction of hormones related to androgen. However, NAC is more likely to form stronger binding interactions with follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone receptors, as well as gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors, when compared to DEHP.

Conclusions:

The possibility that NAC and ZnSO4 could downregulate DEHP-induced sex hormone changes is suggested by their potential to reduce toxicity.
Resolution of sperm quality impairment following SARS-CoV-2 infection: A prospective study
Authors: Derakhshan Marzieh , Derakhshan Maryam , Naghshineh Elham , Movahedi Minoo , Ghasemi-Tehrani Hatav , Bamarinejad Fatemeh , Bamarinejad Atefeh , Omidvar Zeinab
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To investigate the length of time required to resolve COVID-19 effects on semen quality and DNA integrity.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was conducted among 42 men who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and underwent semen analysis at baseline and four months’ post-recovery. Semen samples were collected and evaluated for macroscopic and microscopic parameters, sperm chromatin maturation, and DNA fragmentation.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 37(±7) years, and 14% had normozoospermia at baseline. After a four-month recovery from COVID-19, 48% of patients had normozoospermia. Sperm count, motility, and morphology increased significantly, while sperm DNA fragmentation and sperm chromatin maturation decreased significantly post-recovery from COVID-19.

Conclusions:

Sperm parameters improve after a four-month recovery from COVID-19. The findings indicate significant improvements in sperm count, motility, morphology, DNA fragmentation, and chromatin maturation after a four-month recovery period.
Major regulatory factors for reproductive performances of female chickens
Authors: Derese Debela Bayu , Lu Lizhi , Shi Fangxiong
Published: October 2024

The reproductive performance of female chickens is critical for determining the efficiency of production and productivity and thus profitability. Studies have shown that the reproductive performance of female chickens is mainly regulated by the feed, hormones, genes, and light conditions. Herein, we review the major factors regulating female chicken reproductive performance and assess the reproductive organs and their functions. In the current review, we highlight how the interconnections of hormones, candidate genes, and photo-stimulation regulate female chicken reproductive hormones and thus regulate the reproductive organ performance. In this regard, the roles of main hormones [gonadotropinreleasing hormone (GnRH) and genes (GnRH-I)] in regulating sexual maturation and ovarian development and maintenance by influencing the survival and function of follicular granulosa cells were also reviewed. In addition, the current review also highlights how feeding female chickens with diets and artificial light-emitting diodes (LEDs) support the effective functioning of their reproductive capacity through the stimulation of sexual maturity at an appropriate age and regeneration of aged reproductive organs.
Effect of telehealth education on women’s knowledge regarding risk factors and early detection of breast cancer
Authors: Abd Elkodoos Rehab Fouad , Ebrahim Mona Mohamed , Abd El Kader Aziza Ibrahim , Abdallah Lamiaa Saad
Published: October 2024

Background

The most frequent cancer that affects women worldwide is breast cancer (BC). Through comprehension of risk factors and early detection approaches, women can become more adept at managing their journey toward breast health.

Aim

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of telehealth education on women’s knowledge regarding risk factors and early detection of BC.

Design

A quasi-experimental (pre- and post test) design was used to achieve the current study aim.

Setting

The current study was carried out at family health centers in Cairo City, Egypt.

Sample

A purposive sample of 300 women was recruited for the current study.

Tools

Two tools were used for data collection. Tool (I): Demographic and medical-related data form and Tool (II) BC Knowledge Questionnaire.

Results

The current findings disclosed that there were statistically significant differences between all knowledge dimensions’ mean scores of BC risk factors related to knowledge pre-, post-, and follow-up telehealth sessions (P value= 0.0001). Also, the study finding indicated that 73% of participants got a satisfactory knowledge level regarding BC risk factors and early detection after sessions, which increased to 86.7% after 3 months.

Conclusion

The implementation of telehealth education has a significant effect on improving women’s knowledge regarding BC risk factors and early detection.

Recommendations

Promotion and development of telehealth education programs to raise women’s knowledge about BC risk factors and early detection
Awareness and attitude of genetic testing among relatives and patients with breast cancer
Authors: Mohamed Amany Moustafa , Elsawi Khairia Abu-bakr , Ali Shaimaa Raafat , Mohamed Ahmed Abdelhafeez
Published: October 2024

Background

Genetic testing is an important medical tool for assessing many inheritable diseases and cancers. It plays a vital role in diagnosing patients before symptoms, which helps decrease the severity of outcomes and promote quality of life

Aim

To assess the awareness and attitude of genetic testing of breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2) among first-degree relatives (FDR) and patients with breast cancer.

Design

A descriptive exploratory research design was used.

Sample

A convenient sample of 100 participants were divided into 50 patients with confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer and 50 FDR of patients with breast cancer.

Setting

The study was conducted at the Center of Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine in one of Cairo University’s affiliated hospitals.

Tools

Four tools were used to collect data: Tool (a): Patients’ Personal and Medical Background Form (PPMBF), Tool (b): FDR of Patients with Breast Cancer Personal and Medical Background Form (FRPBCPMBF). Tool (c) Awareness of Genetic Testing Structured Questionnaire (AGTSQ). Tool (e): Attitude toward Genetic Testing Structured Questionnaire (ATGTSQ)

Results

Of the patients, 86% had an unsatisfactory level of awareness of genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2, 64% of patients had a neutral attitude toward genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2, 32% of FDRs had a satisfactory level of awareness of genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2, and 60% of FDRs had a neutral attitude toward genetic testing BRCA1 and BRCA2.

Conclusion

Awareness of genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2 is very important to detect genetic mutation and improve prognosis. FDR and patients with breast cancer had an unsatisfactory level of awareness and a neutral attitude toward genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2.

Recommendations

FDR and patients with breast cancer must undergo BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing to exclude genetic mutation. Awareness of FDR of patients with breast cancer should be raised regarding genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Effect of nursing intervention on reducing complications for patients with ruptured esophageal varices
Authors: Mobed Kawther B. , Hashem Eman M. , Elhafez Maha N.A.
Published: October 2024

Background

One of the most common complications in people with liver cirrhosis is esophageal varices, and they do not exhibit any symptoms until they bleed.

Aim

Evaluate the effect of nursing intervention on reducing complications for patients with ruptured esophageal varices.

Design

A quasi-experimental research design was used.

Setting

This study was conducted in the Medical Department at Al-Rajhi Liver Hospital at Assiut University.

Patients

A convenient sample of 30 nurses and a purposive sample of 60 patients who were divided equally into study and control groups.

Tools

A structured interview questionnaire sheet for nurses, a structured interview questionnaire sheet for patients, Glasgow–Blatchford Bleeding scale, and patients’ complications assessment sheet.

Results

There was a significant enhancement of nurses’ knowledge and practice mean scores after the implementation of the nursing intervention (25.53±2.25, 166.53±15.51) than before (13.76±5.83, 95.3±26.38), respectively, with a statistically significant difference. There was a statistically significant difference between the study and control group patients related to complications of shock, hemodynamic instability, and disturbed conscious level with a P value less than 0.001.

Conclusion

There was a significant improvement in nurses’ knowledge and practice after the implementation of nursing intervention, which reflected a decrease in patients’ complications.

Recommendations

Regular training programs for nurses and preparing instructions booklet for patients with esophageal varices.
Knowledge and practice of nurses toward climate change at Bahariya Oasis in Egypt
Authors: Mousa Neama M. , Elshair Enas H. , Elsawy Manal M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Climate change poses a significant risk to the population’s health. Nurses are the best group to take action against the health hazards caused by climate change. However, their knowledge and practice of this phenomenon is unknown.

Aim

To assess the knowledge and practice of nurses toward climate change at Bahariya Oasis, Egypt.

Design

A descriptive exploratory design was utilized to fulfill the aim of this study.

Setting

The study was conducted at Bahariya Oasis, Giza Governorate, Egypt.

Sample

All 213 nurses working at all available settings affiliated with the health sector were included in this study.

Tools for data collection

I. Nurses’ climate change knowledge questionnaire, and II. Nurses’ self-reported practice checklist.

Results

The current study results showed that 67.1% and 65.7% of nurses had correct incomplete knowledge regarding the definition and causes of climate change, respectively. 90.6% and 88.7% of nurses had incorrect knowledge about the effects of household items and high temperatures, respectively. 86.4% of nurses did not conduct awareness programs and instructions on preserving the environment. 68.5% of nurses used public transportation to get to work.

Conclusion

Three-quarters of nurses had partially satisfactory knowledge, and the majority of them had poor practice regarding climate change.

Recommendations

The current study recommended that nurses should receive continuous updating knowledge and training toward climate change. Further researches are recommended to find out knowledge and practice among nurses on a large scale for generalization.
A confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis of efficacy of different activated irrigants in the removal of calcium hydroxide medicament and subsequent penetrability of Bio-C sealer – An in vitro study
Authors: Bademela Sree Laksmi , Raju T. B. V. G. , Parvathaneni Krishna Prasad , Seshadri Abitha , Dondapati Gowtam Dev
Published: October 2024

Aim:

The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of different irrigants activated by pro-agitator tip system (PATS) Vario on the removal of calcium hydroxide medicament and subsequent penetration depth of Bio-C sealer.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty single-rooted mandibular premolars were selected. Access cavities were prepared; biomechanical preparation was done. Metapex that had been combined with rhodamine B dye was used to fill each sample. All the samples were divided into five groups (n = 10) – Group I: chitosan–citrate, Group II: intracanal heated sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Group III: phytic acid, Group IV: SmearClear, and Group V: saline. All samples were obturated using gutta-percha and Bio-C sealer (combined with fluorescein dye). Later, all samples were sectioned at 3, 6, and 9 mm from the apex and observed under a confocal microscope for residual Ca(OH)2 and sealer penetration into dentinal tubules.

Results:

The saline group exhibited the least amount of sealer penetration and high residual Ca(OH)2, both of which were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion:

The use of PATS Vario for irrigant activation enhanced the calcium hydroxide removal efficacy and penetration of Bio-C sealer into dentinal tubules. The elimination of calcium hydroxide and sealer penetration, from the apical region of the tooth, can be accelerated by intracanal heating of NaOCl.
Comparative evaluation of the effect of three different obturation techniques on push-out bond strength of AH Plus Bioceramic and EndoCeramic sealers: An in vitro study
Authors: Vemuri Sayesh , Rachamadugu Eswar Swetha , Naveena Thalabhakthula , Garlapati Roopadevi , Bolla Nagesh , Basam Ram Chowdary
Published: October 2024

Context:

Effect of three different obturation techniques on bond strength of bioceramic sealers.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of cold lateral compaction, thermafil, and thermoplasticized obturation techniques on the push-out bond strength of AH Plus Bioceramic and EndoCeramic sealers.

Settings and Design:

The design of the study was an in vitro study.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-two extracted teeth that were single-rooted and had fully developed apices were chosen, decoronated, and biomechanically prepared using rotary nickel–titanium (NiTi) instruments. Samples were divided into two groups of n = 21. Group 1: AH Plus Bioceramic sealer, Group 2: EndoCeramic sealer. Then, based on the obturation technique employed, each group was divided into three subgroups (n = 7): subgroups 1a, 2a: Cold lateral compaction; Subgroups 1b, 2b: Thermafil; and Subgroups 1c, 2c: Thermoplasticized (obtura). Using universal testing machine, slices from the middle third of the sample’s root were analyzed to determine the push-out bond strength values.

Results:

Compared to other groups push-out bond strength was noticeably higher for the cold lateral compaction technique with EndoCeramic sealer (Subgroup 2a), followed by the Thermafil technique with EndoCeramic sealer (Subgroup 2b).

Conclusions:

In the present study, compared to heat-based obturation techniques, cold lateral compaction showed better push-out bond strength values for both sealers. EndoCeramic sealer resulted in greater push-out bond strength values than AH Plus Bioceramic sealer.
Role of Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate in inducing odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Bhargava Karan , Srinidhi S. R. , Mulay Sanjyot , Bhonde Ramesh , Kharat Avinash , Kheur Supriya
Published: October 2024

Background:

Pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) is an efficient, reproducible, and biological antioxidant of clinical utility, which may also be preferred for obtaining human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) for the purpose of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.

Aim and Objectives:

The study was conducted to evaluate the effects of PDTC on the propagation and differentiation of hDPSCs.

Materials and Methods:

hDPSCs were isolated by explant culture method and characterized for stem cell properties using flow cytometry method. The effects of PDTC-induced odontoblastic differentiation of hDPSC at different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 5.0 mM) were determined by staining for mineralization.

Results:

Mineralization was more prominent and significantly higher in the induced hDPSCs treated with 1.0 mM concentration of PDTC.

Conclusion:

PDTC at 1.0 mM concentration could have a significant pharmacological role in activating and enhancing odontogenic differentiation of dental stem cells and make it an important step in regenerative dentistry.
Quantitative analysis of antibacterial efficacy of herbal irrigants against endodontic microflora – A clinical study
Authors: Das Lovely , Maity Ipsita , Desai Priti D. , Mazumdar Paromita , Ghosh Kushal Kumar
Published: October 2024

Aims:

The study aimed to assess the antimicrobial effectiveness of green tea and neem extract compared to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) against various root canal microorganisms.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty patients with pulpal necrosis were selected, providing 60 samples before and after irrigation. Groups were assigned as follows: Group A: 3% NaOCl (control), Group B: green tea, and Group C: neem extract. Samples were collected before and after irrigation in two phases. Samples were collected maintaining a strict sterile condition and stored in buffer solution at −80°C for bacterial-load measurement through real-time Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Statistical analysis included within-group comparisons using Wilcoxon’s test and the paired t-test and inter-group comparisons using the Kruskal–Wallis test with post hoc Dunn’s test and one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey’s honestly significant difference test (P ≤ 0.05).

Results:

While no irrigant achieved complete bacterial eradication, all solutions exhibited significant antimicrobial activity postirrigation. NaOCl yielded the most effective results, with green tea nearly comparable, and neem extract demonstrating the lowest efficacy.

Conclusions:

Herbal irrigants, particularly green tea, can serve as effective alternatives to chemical solutions. However, neem extract proved less effective than both green tea and NaOCl, indicating its inferiority in root canal disinfection.
Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial efficacy of 0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride, superoxidized solution, ozonated water, 0.1% silver nanoparticle solution, and Q mix™ 2 in 1 in root canals infected with Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Inamdar Mahenaz Salam , Chole Dayanand G. , Bakle Shrinivas S. , Vaprani Preeti B. , Gandhi Neha P. , Hatte Nikhil R.
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

The objective of this study was to compare and evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of 0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride, superoxidized solution, ozonated water, 0.1% silver nanoparticles (AgNp) solution, and Q mix™ 2 in 1 in root canals infected with Enterococcus faecalis.

Methodology:

One hundred and fifty permanent mandibular premolars were inoculated with E. faecalis (0.5 McFarland standards) were incubated at 37°C for 7 days after which preoperative microbial sampling was done and the number of viable E. faecalis cells was obtained as CFU/mL.

The specimens were irrigated with 0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride (group 1), Q mix™ 2 in 1 (group 2), super oxidized solution (group 3), 0.1% AgNp solution (group 4), ozonated water (group 5), and normal saline (group 6) during mechanical instrumentation. The final irrigation was followed by microbial sampling and the number of viable E. faecalis cells was obtained as CFU/mL.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed by paired t-test and ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results:

Paired t-test showed a statistically significant difference between mean CFU before and after irrigation in groups I, II, III, IV, and V respectively (P < 0.05). Group VI showed no statistically significant difference between CFU before and after irrigation (P = 0.131).

Conclusion:

The mean bacterial reduction was statistically significant for all the study groups, proving their good antibacterial activity against E. faecalis in root canals whereas 0.1% octenidine dihydrochloride and ozonated water demonstrated relatively higher antimicrobial potential.
Antimicrobial efficacy of 2% chlorhexidine gel, triphala, and Azadirachta indica as intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sharma Lakshika , Sinha Dakshita Joy , Puri Nikhil , Dhawan Anu , Prakash Prem , Sharif Nabila
Published: October 2024

Context:

Concerns about adverse reactions and the development of antibiotic resistance have prompted an alternative treatment strategy that utilizes traditional medicinal herbs.

Aim:

This randomized control trial assessed the antimicrobial efficacy of 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gel, Triphala, and Azadirachta indica as intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis.

Materials and Methods:

Forty patients with nonvital teeth and single root canals were selected (n = 10). Following the initial access opening, the first microbial samples (S1) were collected using paper points. Second microbial samples (S2) were collected following the chemo-mechanical preparation and 1 week after introducing the intracanal medicaments. Group I: 2% CHX, Group II: A. indica, Group III: Triphala, and Group IV: Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2). S1 and S2 samples were collected, and bacterial growth was observed using the colony-forming unit (CFU) count.

Statistical Analysis:

Comparison of the difference in CFU count among four groups was performed using one-way ANOVA test (P < 0.05) followed by post hoc Tukey test.

Results:

Reduction in CFU count postmedication S2 from S1 in each group was statistically significant. Percentage reduction in CFU count was highest in Triphala group followed by A. indica and 2% CHX group. Percentage reduction in CFU count was least in Ca(OH)2 group. The post hoc pairwise comparison of % reduction in CFU count among four groups showed that the percent reduction was highest in Triphala group.

Conclusion:

Triphala has considerable antimicrobial efficacy against E. faecalis.
The prevalence, configuration, and prediction of second mesiobuccal canals in maxillary second molars in West Bengal population – A cone-beam computed tomography study
Authors: Sakthivel M. , Das Ujjwal , Murmu Lugu Buru , Saha Kallol Kumar
Published: October 2024

Objective:

This study’s objective is to analyze the prevalence as well as the configuration of second mesiobuccal (MB2) in maxillary 2nd molars and predict its existence based on mesiobuccal-palatal (MB-P) distance, MB-P/distobuccal-palatal (DB-P) distance ratio and mesiobuccal, distobuccal, and palatal orifice (MDP) angle with the help of cone-beam computed tomography.

Materials and Methods:

The presence and absence of MB2 are noted down in 300 maxillary 2nd molars. Canal configuration was observed from the orifice to the apex in the mesiobuccal root. Interorifice distances of MB-DB, MB-P, and DB-P were measured. MB-P and DB-P ratios have been computed. MDP angle was also measured. Then, MB2 existence and the above factors are correlated.

Results:

The prevalence of MB2 is increased as the values increase in MB-P distance (>5.25 mm), MB-P and DB-P ratio (>1.25), and MDP angle (>95°). Out of 150 MB2 teeth, Vertucci type 2, 4, and 8 Configurations are seen in 103 (68.6%), 46 (30.6%), and 1 (0.67%), respectively.

Conclusions:

This positive correlation between MB2 presence and these three factors helps clinicians to identify MB2 canals effectively.
Comparative evaluation of various biomaterials as pulpotomy agents in molars with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: A randomized single-blinded single-center control trial
Authors: Gilhotra Vidushi , Kumar Tarun , Mittal Sunandan , Keshav Vanita , Maakhni Ena , Kesarwani Damini
Published: October 2024

Introduction:

Untreated tooth decay in mature permanent dentition is a prevalent global issue, affecting 34.1% of people with 2.5 billion cases annually. Extensive decay often leads to irreversible pulpitis, characterized by pulp inflammation and pain. Pulpectomy, the standard treatment, involves complex procedures with potential complications. Modern endodontics favors minimally invasive treatment such as pulpotomy, which preserves pulp vitality. This study aims to compare the clinical as well as radiographic outcomes of different pulpotomy agents: Biodentine, mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), Bio-C repair, and Endosequence Bio-ceramic root repair material (BCRRM) in mature permanent molars.

Methodology:

This single-blind, single-center study involved 80 participants randomly assigned to four groups, each receiving one of the biomaterials. Ethical approval was obtained. Participants aged 14–60 years with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis were selected. Pulpotomy procedures were performed, and follow-up evaluations occurred at 24 h, 1 week, 4 weeks, 3, 6, and 12 months. Clinical success was measured by the absence of pain, sensitivity, and tenderness. Radiographic evaluation used the periapical index (PAI) scoring system.

Results:

Pulpotomy significantly reduced postoperative pain in all groups. Endosequence BCRRM showed the maximum pain reduction at 24 h with a statistically significant difference from all the groups (at 1% probability level), followed by Bio-C repair, Biodentine, and MTA. At 1 week, Bio-C repair led in pain reduction with statistically nonsignificant results. All groups reported no pain at 3, 6, and 12 months. Endosequence BCRRM had the highest improvement in periapical findings at 1 year. Sensitivity to hot and cold improved significantly in all groups, with Endosequence BCRRM performing best.

Conclusion:

Endosequence BCRRM provided the best overall outcomes, emphasizing the importance of material choice in pulpotomy treatments. Further research on biomaterials’ long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes is needed to enhance treatment efficacy.