bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemodynamic Assessment to Evaluate Pulmonary Hypertension in Patients with Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Akhtar Yasir , von der Lohe Elisabeth
Published: August 2023

Severe pulmonary hypertension is prevalent as high as 29% in patient with severe aortic stenosis and significantly increases morbidity and mortality in these patients (1). Early Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) for this high-risk subset of patients with Aortic Stenosis (AS) has been recommended (1).The etiology of Pulmonary Hypertension (PHT) in severe AS remains unclear however left ventricular (LV) dysfunction may be of one important etiology (2).
A Functional Univentricle: Large Ventricular Septal Defect, Atrioventricular Discordance, Malposition of the Great Arteries, Pulmonary Stenosis, and Major Aorto Pulmonary Collaterals
Authors: Catindig-Santelices Cristine , Reyes Michael Joseph T. , Matulac Melgar , Macadaeg-Capero Maycibel , Gloria Frederick P.
Published: August 2023

We report a case of a 25 year-old male with a functionally univentricular heart. He underwent consult for clearance prior to employment and has been asymptomatic since childhood with good functional capacity, his 6 minute walk test was normal at 300 meters. Pertinent physical findings were a right ventricular heave, a grade 3/6 systolic murmur over the 2nd-3rd intercostal spaces left parasternal border, a continuous murmur over the interscapular area and cyanosis of the nailbeds. Laboratory exams showed mild erythrocytosis and hypoxemia. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiographic findings showed a large ventricular septal defect (apical intraventricular septum remnant), atrioventricular discordance, malposition of the great arteries and severe pulmonary stenosis. Major aorto-pulmonary collaterals were demonstrated on hemodynamics study. Patient is stable and living a normal life but advised to avoid moderate to heavy strenuous activities. He is on a regular follow – up at our out patient clinic and there are no planned immediate surgical interventions at present.
Calcifying Cystic Odontogenic Tumor: Review with Discussion
Authors: Jindal Ritika , Ongole Ravikiran , Ahmed Junaid , Denny Cenna
Published: August 2023

Aim:

We report a case of calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor affecting maxilla in a 48 year old male patient presented with painless extensive intraoral swelling with unilocular radiolucency and marked resorption of roots on radiographs.

Calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (CCOT) is rare developmental odontogenic pathology. The first description of lesion was given in 1962. Various terminologies and classifications have been proposed for description of the lesion. CCOT has extraosseous and intraosseous variants. Clinically it usually presents as a slow growing painless swelling of maxilla or mandible. It commonly involves anterior region of jaws, shows no gender predilection. Radiographically the lesion has variable appearance. The most common presentation is a well defined unilocular radiolucency associated with irregular calcification. Presence of ghost cells with proliferative odontogenic epithelium is the characteristic feature of the lesion. Surgical enucleation is the treatment of choice.
Undergraduate Performance in Dental Anesthesia
Authors: Raúl Díaz Pérez , Virginia González Sánchez
Published: August 2023

Mandibular block is frequent in the dental practice for performing painless procedures, since it anesthetizes one quadrant with a single injection. The class of anesthesia at School of Dentistry of the National Autonomous University of Mexico, (UNAM,) gives students the necessary skills and clinical teachings to successful performance in mandibular anesthesia. Purpose: To determine the undergraduate performance in regional mandibular anesthesia, in patients under extraction order of erupted permanent tooth. Material and methods: An observational study was performed between March 2007 and February 2008 in five clinics of the School of Dentistry UNAM, including 131 fifth year students, who applied the regional mandibular technique and who agreed to participate in the study. Student, patient, and procedure variables, they were recorded; input and processed in SPSS 15.0. Results: Female students predominated (75%), mean age was 23.4±1.4 years, GPA 7.9±3.9. 63% of the patients were female, with average grade of 46.9±17.4. Teeth most frequently extracted were posterior (87%). 50% of the mandibular blocks were successful. Conclusions: a) Successful performance in mandibular block was 50% b) It is necessary to research the application characteristics of the failed mandibular anesthesia to improve the performance of undergraduate students.
Manual and Electronic Detection of Subgingival Calculus: Reliability and Accuracy
Authors: Masud M. , Zahari H. I. M. , Sameon A. S. N. , Mohamed N. A. H.
Published: August 2023

Calculus consists of mineralised dental biofilm on the surfaces of teeth and dental prosthesis, the location of which can be detected by using a periodontal or an electronic probe. Detection of subgingival calculus is critical for successful treatment outcome in the management of periodontal patients. The aim of this study was to detect subgingival calculus using manual and electronic probe and to compare the reliability and the accuracy of both methods. The study was carried out in vitro on thirty-two extracted teeth with calculus mounted in frasaco model. A total of 192 sites on six surfaces of the teeth bucally and lingually were recorded for the presence of subgingival calculus. Manual probing of calculus depended on tactile sensation and experience; where as electronic probing gave sound and light signal. The results showed that at the depth of 1-3 mm, manual probing could detect 62.7% of calculus and electronic probing could detect more at 77.1%. At the deeper sites of 4-6mm, the ability for detection using electronic probing reduced to 14.1% with failure for detection at ≥ 7mm depth. However manual probing recorded more at 25% for 4-6 mm calculus and 4.7% at ≥7mm. Manual and electronic probing has different sensitivity in detecting subgingival calculus with electronic probing being more sensitive at shallow sites and failed to detect calculus at deeper sites. It also has difficulty to differentiate between calculus and other roughness on tooth surfaces. These findings highlighted the accuracy and reliability of manual detection for deeper calculus. Redesigning calibration and length of electronic probe can improve its usage. Further study on clinical application to assess the impact of both probing may benefit clinical teaching of subgingival calculus detection and the outcome of periodontal patient’s management.
Correlation of Dental Plaque Acidogenicity and Acidurance with Caries Activity – Perspectives of the Ecological Plaque Hypothesis
Authors: Andreadis George , Kalfas Sotirios
Published: August 2023

The ecological plaque hypothesis for the aetiopathogenesis of caries implies a microbial shift towards a more acidogenic and aciduric dental plaque microflora, due to a frequent carbohydrate intake. Certain plaque bacteria exhibit metabolic activity, at a low pH. A correlation exists between the increased numbers of some aciduric bacterial species, e.g. mutans streptococci and lactobacilli, and caries activity. The aim of this study was to study the acidogenic (lactate production / mg plaque x min., at pH 7.0) and aciduric potential (lactate production at pH 5.5 / lactate production at pH 7.0) of dental plaque in relation to the caries activity. Samples of dental plaque were collected from fifteen caries free and fifteen caries active children. Plaque suspensions in Ringer’s solution containing 1% sucrose and buffered with 0.5 M MOPS (pH 7.0) or MES (pH 5.5) were incubated aerobically at 37 ºC for 10-20 min. The production of lactic acid in the suspensions was determined by an enzymatic assay. In caries free children, significantly lower acidogenic potential at both pHs were recorded than in caries active children. The highest difference between the groups was in the acidogenic activity at neutral pH. On the contrary, the aciduric potential was lower in the caries active group than in the caries free. Caries activity correlated with the acidogenic potentials of dental plaque at both pH 7.0 and 5.5. A new perspective of the ecological plaque hypothesis based on the increased catabolic ability of plaque is proposed.
Thermal Behavior of Hybrid Composite, Giomer, Ormocer and Silorane: A Comparative Study Using Two Light Curing Intensities
Authors: Tolids Kosmas , Vaimakis Tiverios , Boutsiouki Christina , Gerasimou Paris
Published: August 2023

Purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of type of composite resin (CR) and the intensity of curing device on thermal behavior. A microhybrid composite (C), a giomer (G), an ormocer (O) and silorane (S) were chosen. Specimens were polymerized with a higher (H) and a lower (L) energy LED curing device. Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) measurements were performed with a dilatometer at temperature range 20-60ºC with temperature raise 2ºC/min. CTE values in lower temperatures (21ºC-37ºC) (CTEa) were compared to CTE values in higher temperatures (37ºC-55ºC) (CTEb). CTEa for all resin composites ranged from 5.43 - 38.67 (x 10-6/ºC) and CTEb from 22.20 - 48.87 (x 10-6/ºC), thus depending on CR type, curing intensity and temperature range. Type of CR and light intensity of curing device have an effect on thermal behavior. The higher the temperature, the higher the CTE for all materials. It is advisable to polymerize C with lower intensity curing unit and S and O with higher intensity. G exhibits the highest CTE values with both curing devices, while O exhibits intermediate results with both light intensities in all temperatures. Higher intensity LED resulted in inhomogenous thermal behavior of the tested materials, especially of S.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) of Health Professionals Towards Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) and Pharmacovigilance in a Tertiary Hospital of North India
Authors: Bhati Neha , Gupta Surabhi , Khosla P.P
Published: August 2023

Pharmacovigilance is a method of quick detection and reporting, of adverse drug reactions and adverse drug events after drug is in clinical use, thus preventing major drug events. Ignorance of physicians in developing world, about reporting adverse drug reaction is a big roadblock to pharmacovigilance. This cascades into many problems e.g.; increased lab to clinic interval, increased premarketing expense for newer drugs. In quickly changing genomes scenario it leads to almost fatal therapeutic failures. The huge population of India and lack of appropriate post marketing surveillance contribute towards disasters due to adverse drug reactions. With evolution of pharmaceutical industry, the Indian doctors have gained wide knowledge of drugs but the area of adverse drug reactions still remains neglected. Indian Government launched National Pharmacovigilance Programme in 2004 to inculcate the culture of Adverse Drug Reaction reporting among Indian health professionals. Medical Council of India has also made Pharmacovigilance Programme mandatory in every medical college. Still the picture is disheartening. Motivated to improve Adverse Drug Event reporting in Chattrapati Shivaji Subharti Hospital, the present survey was conducted to find Knowledge, Attitude, Practices (KAP) of physicians, surgeons & nurses regarding Adverse Drug Reaction reporting.
Troponin Mutation Caused Diastolic Dysfunction and Experimental Treatment in Transgenic Mice with Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Xu Yang , Tian Jie , Huang Xupei
Published: August 2023

Troponin, a contractile protein of the thin filament of striated muscle, consists of three subunits: troponin C (TnC), troponin T (TnT), and troponin I (TnI). Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) plays a critical role in regulation of cardiac function. The physiological effect of cTnI, as an inhibitory subunit of troponin complex, is to prevent the interaction between myosin heavy chain heads and actins, i.e. the cross-bridge formation, and to ensure a proper relaxation of cardiac myofilaments. In pathological conditions, the deficiency of cTnI or mutations in cTnI especially in the C-terminus of cTnI is associated with diastolic dysfunction caused by myofibril hypersensitivity to Ca2+. Our laboratory has generated cTnI knockout mouse model to investigate the cellular and molecular function of cTnI and created cTnI mutant disease mouse models to explore the pathophysiology caused by cTnI mutations in the heart. Here, we present our recent studies on physiological function of cTnI in the heart and the pathological consequences caused by the cTnI mutations in the diseased heart using the transgenic mouse models. The mechanisms underlying diastolic dysfunction and heart failure caused by cTnI mutations are explored in cell-based assays and in transgenic animal models. These studies provide us with useful information in searching for therapeutic strategies and target-oriented medication for the treatment of diastolic dysfunction and heart failure.
Factors Predicting the Fall in Clinic Blood Pressure on Repeated Measurements
Authors: Cheung BMY , Cheung AJ
Published: August 2023

Aim

Clinic blood pressure (BP) readings tend to decrease towards the true value on repeated measurements. We aimed to identify factors associated with the fall in systolic and diastolic BP on repeated measurements.

Methods

We used BP data on 4943 participants aged ≥20 (2475 men, 2468 women; mean age±SD, 50±18 years) in the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-8. Repeated measurements analysis of variance was used to identify predictors of the change in BP with time.

Results

As expected, BP was significantly related to age, gender and body mass index (P<0.001). Both systolic and diastolic BP decreased significantly with time (P<0.001). These decreases were significantly related to age and the maximum cuff pressure (P<0.001). They were not related to body weight, arm dimension, triceps skinfold thickness, cuff size, and consumption of food, coffee and tobacco in the preceding 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Older persons and those with high systolic BP had larger decreases in BP on repeated measurements. Hence, adequate inflation of cuff and repeated measurements in the elderly are key factors for measuring clinic BP accurately.
Overcoming cancer multidrug resistance through inhibition of microparticles
Authors: Vysotski Sora , Winzelberg Rivka , Babayeva Mariana
Published: August 2023

One of the main obstacles to success of chemotherapy agents is the development of cancer resistance. Cancer multi-drug resistance (MDR) is thought to arise from over-expression of efflux transporters on cancer cells’ plasma membranes. Recently, microparticles (MP) were found to play a major role in mediating the resistance to antineoplastic agents. Microparticles can confer MDR phenotype to cancer cells though 3 complimentary pathways: 1) Intercellular transfer of P-gp and MRP1; 2) Intercellular transfer of regulatory nucleic acids that ensure acquisition of MDR phenotype; and 3) Internal sequestration of anticancer drugs to reduce the amount of free active drug. Compounds that inhibit MP formation that are currently under investigation include calpain inhibitors, RhoA inhibitors, ROCK inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, pantethine, glutaminase inhibitors, some anti-platelet drugs and some lipid-lowering agents. This area of research requires further development to select, improve and test those compounds that show the most promise in providing safe and effective treatment against MDR.
An investigation into the factors governing the degree of dissolution enhancement of solid dispersion for poorly soluble drugs
Authors: Farhan Ahmed Bassam , Quah Joan , Lin Lee Elizabeth Pei , Chan Siok-Yee
Published: August 2023

Solid dispersion (SD) formulation has attracted much attention due to its potential in enhancing dissolution performances of poorly soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). Recently, a review on dissolution performances of SDs classifies the improvement into 3 categories, where 82 % of the studies showed improved bioavailability, 8 % showed reduced bioavailability and 10 % revealed similar bioavailability as compared to pure APIs. This indicates the inconsistent degrees of dissolution improvement of poorly soluble APIs in SD. Although a few factors related to the choice of carriers have been suggested to contribute to the dissolution improvement, however, the underlying factor determining the discrepancy in the degree of dissolution improvement remains in vague. It is hypothesized that the API contributes to the degree of dissolution improvement of SD. Hence, the factor of amorphous solubility advantage of API which leads to the different degrees of dissolution enhancement of SD is investigated in this research. Polyvinylpyrrolidone vinyl acetate (PVPVA)-based SD is prepared with three poorly soluble APIs. Physicochemical properties of SD were characterized using infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray powder diffraction. The dissolution efficiency of each SD was calculated and compared to physical mixture and pure API. Theoretical amorphous solubility advantage for each API was calculated using the thermal properties obtained from DSC. The calculated values were found to be correlating well with the dissolution enhancement of the respective SDs. Hence, this theoretical approach can be utilized as an initial screening tool of API candidates in SD formulation during early pharmaceutical development.
Mediated by TV Campaign News: Effects of Political Commercials on Voters’ Political Knowledge
Authors: Yu Jusheng
Published: August 2023

This study examined the relationships among voters’ attention to TV campaign news, attention to political commercials and voters’ political knowledge. As a result, it was found that voters’ attention to political ads has a significant effect on their political knowledge and the effect is mediated by their attention to political news. This research finding might shed light on the mechanism of integrated political communication with political news and political advertising as the two primary forms.
An Extensive Comparison of the Next Generation of Wireless Communication Technology: Light-Fidelity (Li-Fi) Versus Wireless-Fidelity (Wi-Fi)
Authors: Shuriji Mushreq Abdulhussain
Published: August 2023

Wireless communication technology has changed and expanded at an incredible rate particularly within the last few years. Moreover, the demand for wireless communication services has increased due to the fast growth of wireless technology and new revolutionary applications. Nowadays, Wi-Fi is the technology used by most and is widely deployed in homes, offices, coffee shops and airports, etc. It is also widely used with smart phones, tablets and smart TVs, etc. An emerging technology known as Li-Fi is used to off-load data from existing Wi-Fi networks to provide more capacity or where Wi-Fi is not allowed such as, in hospitals, petrochemical plants and aircrafts. After a comprehensive literature survey, there is no extensive comparison of this revolutionary new wireless technology (Li-Fi) with Wi-Fi. This proposed research compares between Light-Fidelity and Wireless-Fidelity in terms of: Radio channel, data rate, range, network size, multiple access, security and applications. In conclusion, Li-Fi technology provides a large license free bandwidth, higher data rate, more safety and availability with a high level of security and privacy compared to Wi-Fi.
Curriculum Development in the Digital Age of Journalism
Authors: Wotkyns III R.S.
Published: August 2023

Journalism practitioners and educators alike are grappling with a changing media landscape, desperately trying to keep up. Journalism educators must provide a new journalism curriculum, one that teaches new technology, but also stresses responsible reporting, based on independence, accuracy, and verification.

This study was conducted to determine student satisfaction with a new Convergent Journalism major. The first year of the roll out of our new Major here at Metropolitan State University of Denver was 2013-14 academic year. This study is an assessment of the efficacy and relevance of our curriculum development efforts. SurveyMonkey.com was the methodology used to measure stakeholder satisfaction. A well-tested satisfaction survey template was deployed, customized to the task. The sample included all of the students pursuing the Convergent Journalism major. A web link collector was used. More waves of testing will be done this fall before the study is complete. The results so far showed 88% were either extremely satisfied or moderately satisfied. We conclude that our new curriculum for Convergent Journalism is meeting student expectations. Anecdotal feedback from several employers suggests that they too are please with the journalism, multi-platform, digital dissemination and content creating skills of our graduates.
Broken Promises
Authors: Cain Butler , Drumheller Kristina
Published: August 2023

After North Korea conducted its third nuclear test despite sanctions to deter its nuclear program, U.S. and Korean newspapers reported in different and surprising ways. Although both featured a negative tone, the Korean newspapers focused on community concerns and defense while U.S. papers focused on world leaders.
Interpersonal and Communication Skills Development in Therapeutic Theatre
Authors: Ngong Paul Animbom
Published: August 2023

Man as a societal being, lives in community settings with other people wherein communication is needed in all daily interactions. Through communication, people are able to share understandings, protect one another and develop methods of solving problems encountered. For these results to be achieved, community members need to develop adequate interpersonal and communication skills which can enable them interact with each other. One approach of developing the aforementioned skills is through therapeutic theatre, which as a forum, permits community members to partake in improvisational acts. It becomes important therefore to find out how these improvisational acts facilitate interpersonal and communication skills. Based on a review of improvisation for therapeutic purposes, this article portrays that the act of engaging in improvisational enactments by community members go a long way to foster the development of interpersonal and communication skills and the enhancement of wellbeing.
An Analysis of Traditional Graphic Design and MultiCommunication Arts Pedagogy
Authors: Rosner Terre Layng
Published: August 2023

Traditional visual communication and graphic design curricula at the university level may not adequately educate, train and/or prepare students to successfully work in the intended creative professions. This critical study found three suspected reasons for the problem: first, that higher education art studio and mass communication curricula are stalled in a historical pedagogy that no longer is viable. Second, that employee compensation for traditional graphic design graduates is typically lower than integrated, interdisciplinary, multimedia graduates and third, that current institutional structures are based on past practice constructed by higher education’s territorial resistance to change.
Stakeholder communications by public leaders: Mutual gain or ethical challenge?
Authors: Sturm Kirk , Eller Dan
Published: August 2023

Using communications theory, the aim of this paper was to analyze a case study to describe the potential benefits and pitfalls of two-way Symmetrical and two-way Asymmetrical communication models [1].

Public sector leaders communicate with various internal and external stakeholders to achieve organizational goals [2], [3], [4].

When a public sector leader adopts a two-way Symmetrical communications approach, the leader works with the various stakeholders to achieve their respective mutual goals [4], [5], [6].

When a leader adopts a two-way Asymmetrical communications approach, the leader seeks to achieve organizational goals at the expense of mutual goals with one or more stakeholders. This is accomplished by framing communications in ways that are more likely to be accepted by stakeholders, but in reality, only advances the organizational goals [7].

Two-way Asymmetrical communication can also be seen as raising ethical issues since the leader is, in essence, pretending to listen to stakeholders while the underlying intent is to achieve organizational goals [4] & [8]).
Communication Ecosystem Contexts: From Mass Audiences to Mass Messages
Authors: Mohsenian-Rad Mehdi
Published: August 2023

Mass media used to have ‘mass audiences’. Nowadays, and with the emergence of the Internet and other new media technologies, messages themselves have turned into ‘mass’. These ‘mass messages’ have different densities, varieties, and dynamics in different societies and different countries. Accordingly, in this paper, we take an ecological perspective and resemble mass messages to living organisms that form ‘communication eco-systems’. We then introduce ‘communication ecosystem context’ as a new umbrella concept encompassing various previously known communication contexts. Based upon historical evidences, communication ecosystem contexts are classification into long-term and short-term, which can be formed normally, forcefully, or due to turn of certain events. In this paper the impacts of communication ecosystem contexts on message perception and interpretation have been studied primarily in Iran, and comparison have been made with five different communication ecosystems of Germany, UK, Australia, USA and Canada.
Gender and Communication: A Study on the Career Choices of Taiwanese Women
Authors: Huang Shu-Hui
Published: August 2023

Thanks to the universal nature of Taiwan’s education, women have accounted for half of all university graduates since 1995. Women are therefore equally competent and well-trained, but Taiwan still suffers from a significant gender pay gap, and women tend to occupy lower-level positions or even leave the workplace altogether - a loss both to these women as individuals and the Taiwanese economy as a whole. This study attempts to: (1) Introduce interpersonal communication as an important variable in understanding the socialization of women and their career choices; (2) Explore the impact of culture and communication on Taiwanese women in order to assess the impact of the father as the ‘opinion leader’ when women make career decisions; assess the extent to which Taiwan can be regarded as a patriarchal society. The study concludes: (1) Taiwanese women’s traditional role in the family rarely conflicts with their own expectations for their future, meaning that they are unable or find it difficult to change their status. (2) Fathers are the ‘opinion leaders’ in women’s career decisions. Regardless of whether the father is controlling or emotionally distant, they have very low expectations for their daughters, causing women to feel lost and ignored. (3) Taiwanese women tend to occupy low-level positions because they lack clear life goals.
Interfacing Effective Communication, Good Governance and Sustainable Development in Nigeria
Authors: Okwechime Chudi
Published: August 2023

Successive governments in Nigeria have made a singsong of sustainable development. Various development plans have come and gone in budgets and policy documents, the latest being the Transformation Agenda of the Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal government. Is sustainable development a hallmark of good governance? What role can communication play in the interplay between good governance and sustainable development? What is the measure of communication effectiveness? This paper examines the interplay among these seemingly distinct variables in a society marked by such sensitive issues as hunger, unemployment, injustice, political brigandage, massive corruption and profligacy. It draws out measurable lessons on the lopsidedness of communication flow through government owned mass media and systemic obstacles that militate against the attainment of good governance and sustainable development in Nigeria. Consequently, the paper recommends a constructive synergy of the key factors that should enhance the well-being of Nigerians.
How Three Journalism Advocacy Organizations Defended Journalists during the 2011 Protests in Egypt
Authors: Cain Butler
Published: August 2023

When journalists who were covering the 2011 political protests in Egypt became targets of assaults and intimidation, three journalism advocacy groups issued press releases condemning Egypt’s actions, advocating for the humane treatment of all journalists, and documenting dozens of incidents of press attacks.
Expanding Public Sector Communications: Moving beyond Public Affairs to Facilitate Collaborative Public Relations
Authors: Eller Dan
Published: August 2023

Traditionally, public sector agencies communicate to their publics to inform and resolve conflicts. By using a review of the literature, this study describes broadening the role of public sector communications by moving beyond a traditional public affairs model to a more collaborative public relations model utilizing two-way symmetrical communications. Technology and social media in today’s society can be an asset to public agencies in terms of communications that allow for a collaborative model. Results of the study illustrate public sector agencies using two-way symmetrical communications can build stronger relationships with their publics that can benefit the agency and their publics in building and maintaining collaborative long-term relationships.
Knowledge of Emergency Colour Codes among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Wardha, Maharashtra, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Wandile Bhushan Vidyadhar , Kanyal Deepika
Published: August 2023

Introduction: An emergency refers to any crisis caused by humans or natural disasters that requires prompt and effective action to protect life and property. Consequently, a wellcoordinated and carefully planned emergency response is crucial. Medical emergency codes are utilised globally to alert hospital staff about various emergencies. Aim: To assess the knowledge of healthcare workers regarding emergency colour codes in a tertiary care hospital. Additionally, it aims to develop standardised operating procedures and policies based on these codes and provide guidance on their implementation in hospitals for different emergency situations. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, from December 2021 to May 2022. A total of 100 healthcare workers aged >18 years, employed at a tertiary care hospital, were included in the study. A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire to assess the knowledge of the participants. The questionnaire consisted of two sections: the first section collected demographic information such as age, gender, qualifications, and profession, while the second section consisted of nine items to evaluate knowledge related to the role of emergency response codes in managing hospital emergencies. Descriptive statistics, including percentages and frequencies, were used to present the results. Results: In the present study, out of 100 study subjects, the maximum percentage (40%) belonged to the age group of 36- 55 years, while the minimum percentage (18%) belonged to the age group of 18-25 years. Among the participants, 25% were male and 75% were female. A significant proportion (92.7%) of the population demonstrated knowledge of the codes for handling hospital emergencies. Specifically, 98% of participants were familiar with the use of code red for fire emergencies, and 88% understood the process of activating code red. All participants had a basic understanding that code blue is used for cardiac arrest, and 85% had knowledge of paediatric emergency codes. Additionally, 96% were aware of the indications for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and 100% knew the abbreviation for CPR. Conclusion: The present study revealed that 96% of the population had good knowledge, while 4% had average knowledge regarding the codes for handling hospital emergencies. Implementing standardised operating procedures and ensuring staff awareness of all emergency response codes used in the hospital are recommended.
Bone Anchored Hearing Aid: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kushwaha Sonaakshi , Deshmukh Prasad
Published: August 2023

Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA) is a small vibrator that can be reversibly attached to a Titanium (Ti) screw and implanted behind the ear. It uses the bone conduction channel to activate the cochleae by converting sound into the vibration of the screw. The two main indications are conductive hearing loss and unilateral deafness when using traditional hearing aids is not possible, as a rehabilitative or mixed hearing loss with a moderate perceptual component. For patients with canal atresia, Single-sided Deafness (SSD), and chronically discharged ears despite treatment, the BAHA implant is an option. Combination hearing loss is a crucial indicator for implanted hearing implants. Various options are accessible based on the bone conduction threshold. Patients with modest sensorineural impairment usually benefit from transcutaneous Bone Conduction Implants (BCI), while those with intermediate hearing loss may also benefit from percutaneous BCI devices. For combined, active middle ear implants are advised for hearing deficits with moderate and severe cochlear hearing loss. For individuals who need middle ear surgery or who are incompatible with other options for therapy, implants are a helpful and successful addition. Skin-drive Bone Conduction Devices (BCDs) are BCDs that vibrate the bone via the skin can also be separated into passive subcutaneous devices and traditional devices that are coupled, for instance, with soft bands with implanted magnets. BCDs that directly stimulate the bone, percutaneous devices, and dynamic transcutaneous devices are examples of direct-drive devices. The latter kind of apparatus uses embedded transducers to stimulate bone effectively via healthy skin. The BAHA, also known as the percutaneous direct-drive device (BCD), now rules the market. More direct-drive and skin-drive transcutaneous solutions are now being studied, partly due to problems with the transdermal implant and partly for aesthetic reasons.
Prevalence and Characteristics of the Articular Tubercle on Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Ramesh Soundarya , Govindraju Poornima , Pachipulusu Balaji
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Pneumatisation represents areas of minimal resistance, making it easier for the expansion of numerous pathological processes such as tumours, infections, or fractures into the joint. Detection of these air-filled cavities is necessary before planning surgical intervention in order to prevent complications. Aim: To assess the prevalence and characteristics of Pneumatisation of the Articular Eminence of the Temporal Bone (PAT) in the Bengaluru population. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology at an esteemed Dental College and Hospital in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. The study lasted for 13 months, from March 2019 to February 2020. The study included Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images of 133 patients (84 males and 49 females) aged between 20-80 years. Based on age, the study group was divided into five groups with an age interval of 10 years, and the prevalence, laterality, and type of pneumatisation of the articular eminence were assessed. The obtained data were statistically analysed using the Chi-square test and McNemar’s test with a significance level of p-value<0.05. Results: Out of the 133 CBCT images evaluated, PAT was noticed in 62 subjects, with an overall prevalence of 46.6%. The highest prevalence of pneumatisation (62.5%) was present in the age group of 61-70 years, followed by 53.8% in the 31- 40 years age group. A male predilection was noted with the maximum prevalence during the sixth decade, followed by the third decade of life. There was an equal distribution in terms of laterality, and the multilocular type of pneumatisation was more common than the unilocular type. Conclusion: The prevalence of PAT was 46.6% and was predominantly seen in males compared to females. Multilocular PAT was more commonly seen than unilocular PAT.
Varied Histomorphological Presentations of Appendiceal Neoplasms: A Case Series of Eight Cases
Authors: Balaiya Dhivya , Annadurai Anithachellam , Rajendran Jayakarthiga Subbiah
Published: August 2023

During routine histopathological study of appendicular specimens, we identified eight cases of appendiceal tumours, including five cases of Low-grade Appendiceal Mucinous Neoplasms (LAMN) and three cases of adenocarcinoma. Among the adenocarcinoma cases, one was a rare colorectal type adenocarcinoma in an older male and two were mucinous adenocarcinoma which includes a case of signet ring cell rich type. These tumours were classified and staged according to the recent WHO classification (5th edition) and the eighth edition of the American Joint Committee of Cancer (AJCC) staging manual. The median age in our series was 60 years. Serum markers were evaluated in two cases of Pseudomyxoma Peritonei (PMP), which showed elevated levels of CA-125 and CA 19.9 in each case. In this case series, three patients were initially diagnosed with acute appendicitis, one case as mucocele, two cases underwent surgery for ovarian malignancy, one patient was operated for an incisional hernia, and one patient was diagnosed with acute intestinal obstruction after clinical and radiological investigations. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of appendicular neoplasms in these eight cases. Meticulous histopathological examination of all appendectomy specimens is important for the proper diagnosis of appendicular neoplasms and to predict their severity. This will help surgeons plan further treatment to increase the patient's survival rate.
Variation in Cost Among Anticancer Drugs Available in India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Patil Ramanand Janardhanrao , Bhandari Prasan Ramchandra , Gaiwale Sanjay Dashrath , Dugad Vivek Jawahar , Jagtap Santosh Baburao
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells, and it encompasses over 100 types of cancers that affect humans. Cancer management often involves a combination of radiation therapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Anticancer drugs, in general, tend to be more expensive compared to other categories of drugs, significantly contributing to the overall drug expenditure incurred by patients. Aim: To analyse the percentage variation in cost among different brands of anticancer drugs available in the Indian market. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology at Symbiosis Medical College, Symbiosis International University, in Pune, Maharashtra, India. The study duration was six months, from March 2021 to August 2021. Data on the prices of anticancer drugs were collected and analysed using the October 2020 to January 2021 edition of the Current Index of Medical Specialities (CIMS). A total of 29 anticancer drugs with different strengths were considered. The cost of a particular anticancer drug with the same dose and dosage form produced by different companies was compared. Drugs were selected based on their strength and dosage forms. The cost of one tablet, capsule, or injection was calculated in Indian Rupees (INR). The cost of a single unit was compared, and the difference between the maximum and minimum costs was calculated. Subsequently, cost ratios and the percentage of cost variation were determined. The study findings were recorded in both Microsoft Word 2016 and Excel 2016, and they were expressed as absolute numbers and percentages. Results: Bortezomib 3.5 mg was the costliest among anticancer drug which was priced at INR 18,988.00, while the cheapest was methotrexate 2.5 mg tablet, priced at INR 1.886. Among the anticancer drugs, pacilitaxel 260 mg injection had the highest cost ratio of 1 29.3055, whereas cisplatin 10 mg injection had the lowest cost ratio. Regarding cost variation, pacilitaxel 260 mg injection showed the highest percentage of cost variation at 2830.5555%, while cisplatin 10 mg injection showed the lowest at 0%. Conclusion: This study revealed a significant variation in prices, cost ratios, and cost variation among different anticancer drugs, providing insights into the price discrepancies observed in the market. The findings can help physicians and policymakers become aware of the cost variations among these drugs and make informed decisions regarding pricing.
Impact of KVK Training Programme on Knowledge and Adoption of Paddy Production Technology in Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Bharath M. , Sriram N. , Devi M. Nirmala , Padma S. R. , Selvi R. Gangai
Published: August 2023

KVK is organizing various types of training programme as one of the important mandatory activities for the benefit of the stakeholders. To know the impact of the KVK Training programme among KVK Vridhachalam trained paddy growers, the study was conducted in the Cuddalore District of Tamil Nadu. 150 Paddy growers were selected as respondents from 15 Paddy growing villages by employing simple random sampling techniques. It was found that 58.00 per cent of paddy growers had a high level of knowledge as a result of the KVK Training programme. Similarly, it was observed that the level of adoption among farmers also increased, with the number of high-level adopters increasing from 20.00 per cent to 63.33 per cent. In contrast, the number of low-level adopters decreased from 33.33 percent to 13 percent. It is concluded that paddy growers should utilize the KVK training programme periodically to update their knowledge and skill for better adoption of paddy technologies for improving productivity and income.
The Fifth Industrial Revolution in Agricultural Sciences
Authors: Cortés Manuel E.
Published: August 2023

The “Type of Article” of this paper is “Letter to the Editor”. This paper discuses about: “The Fifth Industrial Revolution in Agricultural Sciences”. No formal abstract is available. Readers are requested to read the full article.
Perception of Heads of School, Teachers, Students and Parents about the Relevance of Fee-Free Education in Iringa Municipal, Tanzania
Authors: Ghambi Ester
Published: August 2023

This study sought to establish Contributions of fee-free education in secondary schools towards student’s academic progress in Iringa Municipal through qualitative approach. The population of the study comprised five heads of schools and 35 teachers, parents and students through purposive sampling technique. Participants expressed a positive perception regarding the Contributions of fee-free education in secondary schools towards student’s academic progress. Fee Free Education in Tanzania has been a massive benefit hence it gives an access to education which increase students’ enrolment. for instance, FFSE in Iringa Municipality, the enrolment of form one students rose for about 45 percent to 5,386 in 2016 to more than 90 percent 43,826 in 2023. It is recommended that the government should expand the provision of service because, free education has minimized the gap in enrolment between the poor and non-poor children in Tanzania public schools, where the poor are now being more enrolled in schools than it was before. Also, different strategies such as building enough classrooms to accommodate all enrolled students in secondary schools should be into consideration. Moreover, Tanzania government should equip enough tables and chairs with appropriate ventilation to make learners enjoy teaching and learning process. Hence the provision of quality education can be possible.
The Influence of Principal Leadership Behavior on Junior High School Teacher Performance
Authors: M. Siri Ramlah , Bundu Patta , Jasruddin  , Anshari
Published: August 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of principal leadership behaviour on teacher performance. This type of research used in this study is ex post facto. This study's population was 926 teachers at State Junior High Schools in Palu who carried out learning activities in the 2017/2018 academic year. The sampling technique was carried out randomly. The number of samples is 90 teachers consisting of 8 junior high schools in Palu City, and data collection uses a questionnaire. Based on the results of descriptive analysis, it is known that the frequency of leadership behaviours for the very high category obtained a value of 53.33%, the high category of 45.56%, and the low category of 1.11%. The frequency of teacher performance for the very high category obtained a value of 62.22% and the high category of 37.78%. Based on the simple linear regression test results, it is known that there is an influence of the principal's leadership behavior on teacher performance by 24.8%, while other variables influence teacher performance of 75.2%. The influence of principal leadership behaviour on teacher performance shows a positive and significant regression coefficient. In this study, the principal showed good behaviour and was aware of his responsibilities as a leader in his school related to human resource management, namely the teachers he led. The principal always strives to create conducive school conditions by creating mutual respect between teachers and school principals, then between teachers and school members. Teachers participated in finding solutions to problems currently being faced by the school and providing equal opportunities for teachers to develop themselves. It means that if the principal's leadership is excellent, the teacher's performance will increase.
Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Potentials of Musa acuminata Leaves Crude Extract in Alloxan-Induced Wistar Rats
Authors: Freitas A. A. , Onyemeh L. O. , Nneji P. O. , Ola O. M. , Faloye D. A.
Published: August 2023

Context: Musa acuminata is a plant of the tropical and subtropical regions. Over the past few decades, the health benefits of Musa acuminata have received much attention. All parts of the plant, including fruits, peel, pseudo stem, corm, flowers, leaves, sap, and roots, have found their use in treating many diseases in traditional medicine.

Aim: This study was conducted to appraise the protective effect of Musa acuminata extract on alloxan-induced Diabetics Mellitus in wistar rats.

Settings and Design: This investigation was carried out using 24 Wistar rats, both males and females. The experimental models were divided into six groups; 4 rats per group.

Materials and Methods: The experimental models were divided into six groups; 4 rats per group. Alloxan was intraperitonially injected at a dose of 150 mg/kg body weight for day 1 across all groups except the positive control which is Group A together with oral administration of the aqueous extract of Musa acuminata (100 mg/kg, 200mg/kg and 300mg/kg body weight for the treatment group) and Group F was administered a standard drug. The animals were sacrificed on the 11th day under deep anesthesia with chloroform. The blood was collected by cardiac puncture and kidneys were collected for the histological profile.

Statistical Analysis: Kidney oxidative stress marker Malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant enzyme activities Creatinine and Urea, were determined.

Results: The alloxan injection indicated an increase in Malondialdehyde (MDA), with a decrease in Urea and Creatinine when compared with the control. A remarkable decrease in antioxidant enzymes was also observed. Oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, alloxan-induced diabetic mellitus, and histological changes in the kidneys were reduced almost to normal by the administration of Musa acuminata.

Conclusion: Based on the current findings, Musa acuminata leaves at low dose (100 mg/kg body weight) in the alloxan Induced Wistar rat has some anti diabetics potential than at 200 mg/kg body weight, 300 mg/kg body weight and standard drug (Metformin).