bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary bone solitary B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma aberrant expression Fli-1 and ERG: A case report
Authors: Chen Huan , Li JiaSi , Huang Yong
Published: August 2024

Primary non-Hodgkin bone lymphoma is a rare disease, and within this category, B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (B-LBL) is an even rare clinical entity that has only been reported in small case series or individual case reports. B-LBL can mimic Ewing’s sarcoma both clinically and histologically, leading to misdiagnosis. We present a case of primary B-LBL of the bone in a 7-year-old girl. The tumor cells are uniform and small with a diffuse and infiltrative growth pattern similar to EWS. Immunohistochemical results are positive for CD99, Fli-1, ERG, TDT, PAX5, and CD79α, but negative for leukocyte common antigen, CD3, CD20, and NKX2.2. No other lesions are found on positron emission tomography/computed tomography imaging. Finally, primary solitary bone B-LBL of the right tibia was diagnosed.
Prevalence and clinicopathological features of driver gene mutations profile in BCR:ABL1 negative classical myeloproliferative neoplasm—A single-center study from North India
Authors: Rahman Khaliqur , Biswas Seema , Sharma Akhilesh , Gupta Kusum , Chandra Dinesh , Singh Manish K. , Gupta Ruchi , Mishra Ashish , Kumar Sanjeev , Gupta Anshul , Hasan Faheema , Nityanand Soniya , Kahsyap Rajesh
Published: August 2024

Background:

Recurrent somatic mutations in the JAK2, CALR, and the MPL genes are noted in BCR:ABL1 negative classic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) that includes polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocytosis (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF).

Materials and Methods:

Mutation profile and clinical features of MPN cases diagnosed at a tertiary care center in North India are being described. JAK2V617F mutation was screened using ARMS PCR, and CALR mutation was screened using allele-specific PCR followed by fragment analysis. MPL and JAK2 Exon 12 mutations were screened by Sanger sequencing. Some of the samples were also screened using commercial kits based on single-plex RT PCR.

Results:

A total of 378 cases (including 124 PV, 121 ET, and 133 PMF cases) were screened over 6.5 years. JAK2V617F mutation was noted in 90.3%, 61.1%, and 69.2% of cases of PV, ET, and PMF, respectively. In PV, JAK2V617F wild-type cases were associated with a significantly lower age (44 yrs vs 54 yrs; P = 0.001), lower TLC (6.3 vs 16.9; P = 0.001), and a lower platelet count (188 × 109/L vs 435 × 109/L; P = 0.009) as compared to the JAK2V617F mutated cases. CALR and MPL mutations were noted in 17.4% and 12% and 0.8% and 5.3% of ET and PMF cases, respectively. Type 1 CALR mutations were commoner in both ET and PMF. The triple negative cases constituted 20.7% and 13.5% cases of ET and PMF, respectively. In ET, the triple negative cases were found to have a significantly lower median age of presentation (42 yrs vs 52 yrs; P = 0.001), lower median TLC (10.2 × 109/L vs 13.2 × 109/L; P = 0.024), and a higher median platelet count (1238 × 109/L vs 906 × 109/L; P = 0.001) as compared to driver genes mutated cases. In PMF, the triple negative cases were found to have a significantly lower hemoglobin level (7.9 g/dl vs 11.0 gl/dl; P = 0.001) and a significant female preponderance (P = 0.05) as compared to the mutated cases. CALR mutations were found to have a significantly lower median age (43 yrs vs 56 yrs; P = 0.001) and lower hemoglobin (9.6 g/dl vs 11.3 g/dl) as compared to the JAK2 mutations.

Conclusion:

Our data on the driver gene mutational profile of BCR:ABL1 negative MPN is one of the largest patient cohorts. The prevalence and clinicopathological features corroborate with that of other Asian studies.
Experience of quantity and quality of DNA and RNA extraction from limited pediatric blood samples
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Singh Minu , Singh Aditya , Bhardwaj Deepshikha , Bhatia Prateek
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Optimal DNA and RNA quantity and purity is essential for downstream molecular biology experimentation and to avoid re-processing of sample. Despite availability of different kits and automated systems for nucleic acid isolation there is limited data on their performance evaluation, more so with pediatric blood samples, that are usually compromised in quantity. Hence, we evaluated the performance of automated QIAcube platform using pediatric blood samples in parallel with manual Qiagen extraction kits.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 500 samples were analyzed based on groups of PBMC and direct blood input. The isolated DNA and RNA were surveyed for quantity and quality tests by spectrophotometric and downstream analysis.

Results:

There was no significant difference in the DNA quantity (ng/ul) between manual and automated method based on similar sample input but quality (260/280) was significantly better with the QIAcube platform when direct blood and or PBMCs were used for extraction respectively (1.82 ± 004 Vs. 1.84.002; P-0.000008and 1.859 ± 005 Vs. 1.843 ± 0.003; P-0.02). Moreover, the standard error mean was low for both quantity and quality in the QIAcube method suggesting uniformity. Comparison of quality assessment by spectrophotometer and qubit fluorimeter showed that QIAcube sheared DNA less (P- 0.038)as compared to manual method (P-0.013). Also, time taken to process the samples in QIAcube was 23% less than the kit-based method.

Conclusion:

Overall analysis of QIAcube platform suggests that it yields more better, uniform, and less-sheared quality of nucleic acid in a relatively less time as compared to manual extraction kits.
Status of Disability Awareness among the Caregivers of Persons with Mental Illness Attending a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Malik Asha , Khurana Hitesh
Published: August 2024

Background:

Disability due to mental illness (MI) is widely prevalent in India, but the people do not have sufficient awareness about the rights associated with disability and its treatment and rehabilitation. The Rights of People with Disability Act 2016 (RPWD) was enacted to develop communities that may help in mainstreaming and destigmatizing people with disability (PwD). For successful rehabilitation and destigmatization, everyone, especially the PwD and their caregivers, must know about the rights as listed in the act. Very little is known about this aspect of RPWD.

Objectives:

We wished to compare the knowledge about rights of the disabled persons among the caregivers of persons with MI seeking disability certification and those seeking treatment only.

Methods:

Sixty participants (30 caregivers, each of those with MI taking treatment and those visiting for disability certification) were recruited conveniently. They were assessed on a self-designed validated questionnaire for disability rights under RPWD. Family burden was assessed using a family burden interview schedule developed by Pai and Kapoor.

Results:

Both the groups had inadequate knowledge about the rights. No differences in the level of knowledge about rights in the RPWD was found in the two groups. The family burden was significantly higher among those seeking disability certificates.

Conclusion:

The caregivers of MI have inadequate awareness of the rights of the PwD. There is an urgent need to make people aware of the same for successful rehabilitation and stigmatization of the PwD due to MI.
First clinical experience of total body irradiation using volumetric modulated arc therapy technique in Japan
Authors: Nozawa Yuki , Yamashita Hideomi , Sawayanagi Subaru , Katano Atsuto
Published: August 2024

In recent years, advances in radiotherapy technology have led to the use of high-precision radiotherapy such as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT). Total body irradiation using VMAT technique (VMAT-TBI) was performed for the first time in our hospital. A 56-year-old male patient diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia was performed TBI as pretreatment for haploidentical-related peripheral blood stem-cell transplantation. The prescribed dose was 4 Gy for planning target volume in two fractions. The treatment plan was divided into two plans: upper body and lower body with three and two isocenters, respectively. The overall treatment time with VMAT-TBI was approximately 55 min, and it was not significantly longer than that of moving couch techniques. VMAT-TBI is a less burdensome and more accurate treatment for patients, and it may be a useful treatment for TBI.
Downregulation of MMP-9 by epicatechin can improve the radiosensitivity of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Anao , He Yongmei , Zhou Huahua , Huang Nan , Xu Hongying , Xia Jie , Zengbo Lv , Huang Meifang
Published: August 2024

Background and Purpose:

Radiation therapy is a crucial treatment for nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its effectiveness is limited by the resistance of tumor cells to radiation. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of epicatechin (EC) on radiosensitivity in NSCLC and to determine its relationships with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9.

Methods:

MMP-9 expression was detected by Western blotting, and the expression of the DNA damage marker protein was detected by immunofluorescence. Cell viability was assessed using the CCK-8 assay, and cell proliferation was evaluated using the clonogenesis assay. Flow cytometry was used to determine the cell apoptosis, whereas cell migration and invasion were detected using the transwell assays. The cells were treated with ionizing radiation (IR) and EC to verify the sensitizing effect of EC on radiation therapy.

Results:

MMP-9 expression was elevated in the NSCLC cells and tissues. DNA damage and cell apoptosis were increased, whereas cell vigor, proliferation, migration, and invasion were significantly decreased after IR. MMP-9 knockdown strengthened the impact of IR on the biological behaviors of the cells. EC + IR had the best effect on promoting DNA damage and the biological behaviors of the NSCLC cells; alternatively, the overexpression of MMP-9 weakened the role of EC.

Conclusions:

This study shows that EC can downregulate MMP-9 expression, promote DNA damage, reduce cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion, and facilitate cell apoptosis, thus, showing potential as a radiosensitizer for NSCLC.
The m6A reader IGF2BP2 promotes ESCC progression by stabilizing HDGF mRNA
Authors: Jia Yang , Liu Sujing , Zhang Miao , Wu Xia , Chen Xiangyu , Xing Mengmeng , Hou Xianghui , Jiang Wenpeng
Published: August 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the role of IGF2BP2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) progression.

Materials and Methods:

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset, transcriptome sequencing, and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset were used to detect the expression of m6A-associated genes in ESCC. The in vitro and in vivo assays were used to explore the role of IGF2BP2 in ESCC.

Results:

IGF2BP2 was significantly overexpressed in human ESCC specimens, which was confirmed by analyzing the GEO dataset. IGF2BP2 overexpression was correlated with poor prognosis in patients with ESCC. Altering the expression of IGF2BP2 influenced the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells in vitro and tumorigenicity in vivo. IGF2BP2 could bind to and stabilize hepatoma-derived growth factor (HDGF) transcripts in ESCC in an m6A-dependent manner and promote HDGF expression.

Conclusions:

These findings indicate that the novel IGF2BP2-HDGF axis is pivotal for ESCC cancer progression and can serve as a target for developing therapeutics.
CXCR4 promotes migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition of papillary thyroid carcinoma by activating STAT3 signaling pathway
Authors: Hu Yajie , Xu Zhipeng , Zhou Dongsheng , Hou Haitao , Liu Bin , Long Houlong , Hu Wenxin , Tang Yuanqi , Wang Jianning , Wei Dan , Zhao Quanlin
Published: August 2024

Aims:

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is a serious threat to human health worldwide, while metastasis in the early phase limits therapeutic success and leads to poor survival outcomes. The CXC chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) plays an important role in many cellular movements such as transcriptional modulation, cell skeleton rearrangement, and cell migration, and the change in CXCR4 levels are crucial in various diseases including cancer. In this study, we explored the role of CXCR4 in the migration and invasion of PTC and investigated the potential mechanisms underlying its effects.

Subjects and Methods:

We analyzed the expression levels of CXCR4 in PTC tissues and cell lines. Would healing migration, Transwell invasion assay in vitro, and tail-vein lung metastasis assay In vivo were performed to evaluated the migration and invasion abilities of PTC cells with stable CXCR4 knockdown or overexpression. Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT3) signaling pathway-related protein expressions were examined by Western blotting assays.

Results:

The results showed that CXCR4 was highly expressed in PTC cell lines and PTC tissues. CXCR4 knockdown in PTC cells dampened the migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), whereas CXCR4 overexpression enhanced these properties. In vivo, we also found that CXCR4 promoted the metastasis of PTC. Mechanistic studies showed that CXCR4 played these vital roles through the STAT3 signaling pathway. Furthermore, PTC patients with high CXCR4 or p-STAT3 expression correlated with aggressive clinical characteristics such as extrathyroidal extension (ETE), and lymph node metastasis (LNM).

Conclusions:

We provided evidence that CXCR4 might activate the STAT3 signaling pathway and further promote PTC development. Thus, CXCR4 might be a novel therapeutic target for PTC.
Oral microbiome and its relationship with oral cancer
Authors: Wang Shengran , Tan Xiao , Cheng Juan , Liu Zeyang , Zhou Huiping , Liao Jiyuan , Wang Xijun , Liu Hongyun
Published: August 2024

As the initial point for digestion, the balance of oral microorganisms plays an important role in maintaining local and systemic health. Oral dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the oral microbial community, may lead to the onset of various diseases. The presence or abnormal increase of microbes in the oral cavity has attracted significant attention due to its complicated relationship with oral cancer. Oral cancer can remodel microbial profiles by creating a more beneficial microenvironment for its progression. On the other hand, altered microbial profiles can promote tumorigenesis by evoking a complex inflammatory response and affecting host immunity. This review analyzes the oncogenic potential of oral microbiome alterations as a driver and biomarker. Additionally, a potentially therapeutic strategy via the reversal of the oral microbiome dysbiosis in oral cancers has been discussed.
Efficacy and safety of standard BEACOPP regimen versus ABVD regimen for treatment of advanced Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Authors: Lin Ningjing , He Chuan , Zhang Qingyuan , Hong Xiaonan , Liu Lihong , Yang Shune , Su Hang , Li Xiaoyi , Dai Xiangrong , Li Yujie , Zhu Jun
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The current treatment regimens for Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) are associated with high incidences of adverse events.

Purpose:

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of doxorubicin + bleomycin + vincristine + dacarbazine (ABVD) and standard bleomycin + etoposide + doxorubicin + cyclophosphamide + vincristine + procarbazine + prednisone (BEACOPP) chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced stage HL.

Methods:

This multicenter, randomized, parallel, open, positive control noninferiority trial was conducted from 2016 to 2019 and comprised 93 subjects who were randomized in a 1:1 ratio between the treatment (BEACOPP; n = 44) and control (ABVD; n = 49) groups.

Results:

The primary efficacy endpoint of this trial was the objective response rate (ORR) after eight cycles of chemotherapy, which was 100.00% (36/36) in the treatment group and 95.74% (45/49) in the control group. The incidence of adverse reactions was 100% in both groups. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in the incidences of grade 3 (39/44 [88.64%] vs. 23/49 [46.94%]) and grade 4 (27/44 [61.36%] vs. 8/49 [16.94%]) adverse events were observed between the treatment and control groups, respectively. However, most of these reactions were manageable, with no serious consequences, and were reversible after discontinuation of the treatment.

Conclusion:

Both regimens had a similar ORR and were associated with a high number of adverse events. The ABVD regimen was better tolerated and safer than the standard BEACOPP regimen. This study indicates that the standard BEACOPP regimen may be considered as a treatment option for patients with advanced HL.
Application of computed tomography-based radiomics analysis combined with lung cancer serum tumor markers in the identification of lung squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Tongrui , Li Jun , Wang Guangli , Li Huafeng , Song Gesheng , Deng Kai
Published: August 2024

Objective:

To establish a prediction model of lung cancer classification by computed tomography (CT) radiomics with the serum tumor markers (STM) of lung cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Two-hundred NSCLC patients were enrolled in our study. Clinical data including age, sex, and STM (squamous cell carcinoma [SCC], neuron-specific enolase [NSE], carcinoembryonic antigen [CEA], pro-gastrin-releasing peptide [PRO-GRP], and cytokeratin 19 fragment [cYFRA21-1]) were collected. A radiomics signature was generated from the training set using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm. The risk factors were identified using multivariate logistic regression analysis, and a radiomics nomogram based on the radiomics signature and clinical features was constructed. The capability of the nomogram was evaluated using the training set and validated using the validation set. A correction curve and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test were used to evaluate the predictive performance of the radiomics model for the training and test sets.

Results:

Twenty-nine of 1234 radiomics parameters were screened as important factors for establishing the radiomics model. The training (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.925; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.885–0.966) and validation sets (AUC = 0.921; 95% CI: 0.854–0.989) showed that the CT radiomics signature, combined with STM, accurately predicted lung squamous cell carcinoma and lung adenocarcinoma. Moreover, the logistic regression model showed good performance based on the Hosmer-Lemeshow test in the training (P= 0.954) and test sets (P= 0.340). Good calibration curve consistency also indicated the good performance of the nomogram.

Conclusion:

The combination of the CT radiomics signature and lung cancer STM performed well for the pathological classification of NSCLC. Compared with the radiomics signature method, the nomogram based on the radiomics signature and clinical factors had better performance for the differential diagnosis of NSCLC.
The anti-neoplastic impact of thymoquinone from Nigella sativa on small cell lung cancer: In vitro and in vivo investigations
Authors: Khan Mahjabin , Lam Sze-Kwan , Yan Sheng , Feng Yuqian , Chen Caoyang , Ko Frankie Chi-Fat , Ho James Chung-Man
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Malignant and aggressive, small cell lung cancer (SCLC) constitutes about 15% of all diagnosed lung cancer cases. With primary therapeutic options such as chemotherapy accompanied by debilitating side effects, interest has been soaring in the therapeutic competencies of herbs. The pharmacological driving force behind the beneficial properties of Nigella sativa is the quinone, thymoquinone (TQ). The anti-cancer effects of TQ on different cancers have been extensively studied. Nonetheless, only one paper in the entire National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database describes its effects on SCLC. A more detailed investigation is required.

Methods:

The current study examined the impact of TQ in vitro on five SCLC cell lines and in vivo in a nude mouse xenograft model. The following in vitro effects of TQ on SCLC were evaluated: (a) cell viability; (b) apoptosis; (c) cell cycle arrest; (d) intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and (e) protein expression in concomitant signaling pathways. For the in vivo effects of TQ on SCLC, (a) tumor volume was measured, and (b) selected protein expression in selected concomitant signaling pathways was determined by Western blotting.

Result:

In general, TQ reduced cell viability, induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, depleted ROS, and altered protein expression in associated signaling pathways. Furthermore, TQ exhibited a tumor-suppressive effect in an H446 SCLC xenograft model.

Conclusion:

The cytotoxic impact of TQ arising from anti-cancer mechanisms was elucidated. The positive results obtained in this study warrant further investigation.
Quarantine for COVID-19
Authors: Jaiswal Tanvi , Kambala Seema Sathe
Published: August 2024

The 2019-2020 coronavirus is a progressing pandemic disease spreading worldwide. The outbreak was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China, in December 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the occurrence to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on January 30, 2020, and recognized it as a pandemic on March 11, 2020. This review article describes and suggests the various tips and precautionary measures urged by the WHO and other health-care centers so that one ought to follow and help the nation to break its chain and reduce it spread in future.
Comparative Study of Conventional Ziehl–Neelsen Method and Modified Bleach Concentration Method in Detection of Tubercle Bacilli in Fine-Needle Aspiration Material of Lymph Nodes
Authors: Laddha Ankita , Bhake Arvind , Kediya Anup , Vagha Sunita
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Tuberculous lymphadenitis is seen in nearly 35% of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Early and accurate detection of active cases remains an important objective for appropriate treatment and reduction in the spread of the disease. Microscopy has many advantages when it comes to speed feasibility, and if its sensitivity could be improved. Liquefaction of specimens by sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl, bleach) and concentration of bacilli through centrifugation significantly increases the sensitivity of direct microscopy. Thus, the bleach concentration method has been recently described for sputum and other extra-pulmonary specimen.

Aim:

The aim of study is to evaluate the role of bleach concentration method in FNAC lymph nodes over conventional Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) direct smear microscopy.

Methods and Material:

The prospective, cross-sectional and observational study carried out for a period of one year from December 2017 to November 2018. The study included 50 cases suspected clinically of having TB with lymphadenopathy referred for FNAC to the division of cytopathology in department of Patholology, All the aspirates by FNAC were processed for direct microscopy using conventional ZN staining and routine cytology and compared with the findings of the bleach method. Of these 50 cases 5 cases were eliminated from the study.

Results:

Of total 45 cases, 14 cases were positive by conventional ZN method and 29 cases by bleach concentration method. AFB positivity by bleach concentration method was more in comparison with the routine ZN stain.

Conclusion:

The study could establish AFB positivity in 64.44% of cases with the bleach method. This detection rate is far better than routine ZN staining.
A Comprehensive Review on Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Head-And-Neck Region
Authors: Ranka Rajul , Sharma Preethi
Published: August 2024

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is an exceedingly common cutaneous malignancy. Its frequency is rising worldwide by up to 10% a year. Even though mortality is very low as BCC hardly ever undergoes metastasis, this malignancy is highly devastating, has high morbidity rate, and is troublesome for healthcare services worldwide. Furthermore, people who have this condition are at high risk of developing further BCC and other malignancies such as squamous cell carcinoma and malignant melanoma. This review aims to present a comprehensive overview of this pivotal condition, concentrating on recent advances in our understanding of its epidemiology, risk factors, molecular genetics, diagnosis, and treatment in Southeast Asia.
Evaluation of Various Prognostic Factors of Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Rai Prachi , Bhake Arvind , Bahadure Sweta
Published: August 2024

Background:

Endometrial carcinoma (EC) is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract that accounts for about 7% of all invasive cancer in women. Therefore, the first step is to find predictive and prognostic factors, then to define clinically relevant risk groups and finally design clinical trials and treatment options. Hence, to improve the treatment and follow-up of EC patients, the importance of various prognostic factors has been extensively studied. The present study is intended to evaluate the various prognostic parameters of EC.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate various prognostic factors in patients of diagnosed case of EC at a tertiary health center.

Objectives:

The objectives of the study were

(

1).to diagnose EC by routine H and E staining and grade (FIGO) it and (2) and to evaluate various prognostic parameters including clinical, gross, and histopathological factors.

Study Design:

This was a observational and retrospective study.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty cases of EC were diagnosed on histopathology, then evaluate various prognostic factors.

Results:

Most of the cases belonged to the postmenopausal group, endometrioid type, stage I that means confined to the endometrium alone. The most common grade was Grade II accounting to 40.00%, followed by Grade I and Grade III, i.e., 34% and 18%, respectively, and 8% were included in the unknown grade.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of prognostic factors may enable physicians to find the best appropriate treatment for the prevention of recurrence. Patients at risk for an aggressive or advanced disease could be referred to centers and clinicians with special expertise in managing advanced or recurrent EC.
Abdominal Wall Desmoid Tumor Diagnosis on Computed Tomography Scan
Authors: Varma Amruta , Dhande Rajasbala P. , Pattabiraman Suhasini
Published: August 2024

Desmoid tumor also known as aggressive fibromatosis, has similarities with malignant tumor fibrosarcoma, but are benign as they don't metastasize to other parts of body.desmoid tumoursare very rare with an incidence of 2-4 per million per year and constitute 0.03 % of all tumor. Here we are presenting a rare case of 45 year old woman who presented with pain and lump in abdomen.
Suicide and Its Risk Factors Among Elderly in Central India
Authors: Sourabh Kumar , Kumari Lovely , Gotarkar Shashank , Ingole Abhishek , Mudey Abhay
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

The 21st century is often called as the “Age of Ageing.” Globally, the share of older people who are above 60 years of age grew from 9.2% in the year 1990–2011, 7% in the year 2013, and following this trend, it will reach to 21.1% by the year 2050.

Aim and Objective:

The aim of this study is to determine the risk factors of suicides in the elderly population who committed suicide.

Methodology:

The study was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted in the Wardha district, located in the Central part of India from July 2015 to October 2017. The total cases of suicides among elderly population of more than or equal to 60 years, recorded with the appropriate authority during the year 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 was included in this study. The study participants were the survivor of suicide (people intimately and directly affected by a suicide), who was knowledgeable about the events or circumstances, leading to the suicide by the elderly.

Results:

problems faced by elderly that led them to suicide. Near about all the elderly (98.6%) except one were having some mental health issues in the form of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, about 78.9% of study participants were having clinical comorbidities in the form of chronic physical pain, major accident or paralysis, history of fits, stupor, loss of consciousness, and chronic illness such as tuberculosis or cancer.

Conclusions:

In the present study, near about half of the elderly were in the age group of 60–69 years of age. While maximum elderly who committed suicide were male by gender indicating, male gender is more prone for suicide.
Critical Appraisal of Curriculum Content for Bachelor of Science in Intensive Care Technology Under Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University) as Against Subject Centricity
Authors: Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Dhok Archana , Srivastava Tripti , Singh Rohan Kumar , Patwa Prerna Anup
Published: August 2024

Background:

The specialty of intensive care of patients, also known widely as “critical care medicine” is one that includes how to properly look after and take care of patients who are critically ill. In the academic year 2020–2021, an undergraduate course curriculum on intensive care technology was launched in the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University), the curricular inclusions for which were the document of interest for the present study. It is vital to determine the standing of the curriculum prepared for a new course for undergraduates with regard to its centricity– learner based, subject based or problem based. Here, the cognitive domain can be viewed in the subject based inclusions. The present study attempts to delineate the curricular inclusions for the said curriculum of Bachelor of Science in Intensive Care Technology under Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University) as against typing of curriculum based on subject centricity.

Materials and Methods:

Rapid review of the literature with reference to the curriculum of Bachelor of Science in Intensive Care Technology under Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences (Deemed to be University) in the academic year 2020–2021 for purpose of their “typing” with principles of curriculum design' was done.

Results:

According to principles of curricular design by Schweitzer based on centricity of curriculum, the curricular inclusions were divided into three types–subject centred inclusions, problem-centered inclusions and learner-centered inclusions. The total number of curricular inclusions was 539. Ideally taking the ratio of curricular inclusions as 6:3:1, there should be 323 subject-centered inclusions, 162 problem-centered inclusion, and 54 learner centered. Out of this, there were 313 inclusions which were observed to be subject centred, 206 inclusions were problem centered and 20 were centred upon the learner. Thus, the overall percentage of typing of the inclusions was 58.07% subject centricity, 38.21% problem centricity and 3.7% learner centricity. The observed deficit of inclusions in subject centricity was 10, a surplus of 44 inclusions was observed in problem-centered inclusions whereas the learner-centered inclusions showed a deficit of 34 objectives.

Conclusion:

The undergraduate course curriculum of Bachelor of Science in Intensive Care Technology under Faculty of Allied Health Sciences included in the present study for typing of included curricular inclusions has been typed based on their centricity upon the subject.
Guidelines for Maxillofacial Surgeon Concerning Emergency Operative Procedures in COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Simre Saurabh Sunil , Kambala Rajanikanth , Jadhav Anendd , Bhola Nitin
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic is now a global problem that has significantly impacted the safe practice of Maxillofacial Surgery. It is important to compile information and experiences that have been gained worldwide and define a set of guidelines for best practice for staff performing these procedures and for patients undergoing maxillofacial surgery procedures. As such, these recommendations should be treated as “expert opinion” and are based mostly on personal communication, guidelines put forth by various national and international societies, and peer-reviewed data when possible. Surgical procedures involving the nasal–oral–endotracheal mucosal region are high risk due to aerosolization of the virus, which is known to be in high concentration in these areas when compared to swabs from the lower respiratory tract1. Further, it appears that if viral particles become aerosolized, they stay in the air for at least 3 h, if not longer. Based on experience in Wuhan, China, and Northern Italy, N95 masks were not enough to control this spread of the disease and it was not until powered air-purifying respirators were introduced that transmission of the virus was controlled among medical personnel. The current paper focuses on setting basic guidelines for dental operating surgeons in taking up an emergency operative procedure.
Challenges and barriers to healthy eating behaviors in the workplace: A pragmatic approach to promoting healthy aging
Authors: Khalafehnilsaz Mahnaz , Ramezankhani Ali , Rahnama Rozina
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

The role of health-related behaviors, particularly eating behavior, in the health of middle-aged individuals in the workplace is crucial. This qualitative study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and barriers to healthy eating behaviors in the industrial workplace from the perspectives of middle-aged workers and employers.

METHODS:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants, including 5 workers aged 35 to 59 years, 3 nutrition experts, 2 health, safety and environment (HSE) experts, and 5 employers from industrial workplaces in Tehran, Iran. Purposeful sampling was used to select participants who could provide meaningful insights into the research question. The data were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman approach with MAXQDA software.

RESULTS:

The study revealed three main themes that hindered healthy eating behaviors in the workplace: (i) the absence of organizational structures for well-being and health, including sub-themes such as the lack of health-oriented organizational policies, inaccessibility to healthy nutritional resources, and restrictive rules, (ii) the pressure of organizational social norms, including sub-themes such as the impact of friendship networks and colleagues, and the effect of workplace culture, and (iii) the lack of a supportive learning environment for healthy behavior, including sub-themes such as the impact of poor interactions and the absence of supportive training.

CONCLUSION:

The findings highlight the need for workplace health programs that address the identified challenges and promote healthy eating behaviors among middle-aged workers. Implementing health-focused policies and fostering a workplace environment that encourages nutritious food choices can enhance the overall health and well-being of workers and potentially lead to healthy aging in the future.
Mental health state in medical students during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Natalia Dian , Syakurah Rizma Adlia
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, medical students had reported experiencing high rates of distress, burnout, anxiety, and depression. The psychological impact of the COVID-19 in the general population suggested that the mental health impact was increased anxiety, depression, and stress. There were no exceptions if medical students also experience the same psychological impact. The aimed to this study is analyze the mental and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic among medical students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

An observational analytic study was used with a cross-sectional approach. Data were obtained with questionnaires distributed through social media platforms from July 14, 2020, to July 21, 2020. This study using the Fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19) Scale and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 to assess FCV-19, anxiety, stress, and depression. statistical analysis used IBM SPSS Statistics 24 was used to analyze the two-tailed Chi-square test, the Mann–Whitney test, and the Kruskal–Wallis test, which were used with statistical significance as P < 0.05 for all tests.

RESULTS:

Out of 1027 samples, 44.6% had stressed, 47.8% had anxiety, and 18.6% had depression. The gender (P = 0.000), educational stage (P = 0.000), and the comorbidity factor (P = 0.001 for stress and anxiety, P = 0.036 for depression, and P = 0.000 for FCV-19) had a significant association with stress, anxiety, depression, and FCV-19 in medical students. The hometown that showed zone risk of infection only showed significant differences in FCV-19 (P = 0.026).

CONCLUSIONS:

Protection and psychological support for a medical student is extremely high importance given that COVID-19 is now a well-established pandemic and there will be other pandemics in the future.
Factors that influence dermatology residents’ choice of future subspecialty: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Alakeel Abdullah , Alhedaithi Ibrahim , Shadid Asem , Algarni Abdullah , Alekrish Yazeed , Alekrish Khalid
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Factors influencing the choice of subspecialty fellowship program vary between medical specialties. In dermatology, there is a disparity in the distribution of dermatologists across fellowship programs. This study aimed to determine the factors considered by Saudi-trained dermatology residents when choosing a fellowship program to aid in promoting program characteristics and refining mentorship.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in six different regions in Saudi Arabia using a validated self-administered electronic questionnaire to investigate the factors that influence dermatology residents’ choice of future subspecialty.

RESULTS:

The questionnaire was completed by 70 dermatology residents. Females represented 63% of the study sample. Of the study participants, only 40% decided on what subspecialty they wanted to pursue. Half of the included residents were from Riyadh, and 21% were from Jeddah. Quality of life was the most common factor influencing subspeciality choice, followed by earning potential and private practice opportunities. However, the least influential factors included the research potential of the subspeciality, family, and advice from doctors in other fields.

DISCUSSION:

Medical residents face a significant decision when choosing their subspecialty, as it can impact their career path. The factors influencing this decision vary between different medical specialties. For example, internal medicine residents tend to choose subspecialties that provide intellectual stimulation and complement their personalities, while orthopedic surgery residents prioritize their experience and interest in the subspecialty. Our study found that quality of life, income potential, and private practice opportunities are important factors that influence subspeciality choice in dermatology residents.
Effect of probiotic yogurt on antibiotic-associated diarrhea among pediatric patients; randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shyoran Rajesh , Kaur Amanjot , Bharat Pareek , Pathania Rimple
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Diarrhea is a common unfavorable consequence of antibiotics. Probiotic yogurt is equally effective as probiotic capsules, so it may provide a simple and cost-effective means of preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). The study aimed to evaluate the effect of probiotic yogurt on AAD among pediatric patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The randomized controlled trial design was adopted in this investigation, with a post-test-only control group. Data were obtained from 244 pediatric patients on antibiotics who were admitted to the hospital and included in the trial via full enumeration sampling. Selected subjects were randomly assigned to experimental (n = 122) or control (n = 122) groups. The experimental group received probiotic yogurt for five days, whereas the control group received standard care. The incidence and severity of diarrhea on the fifth day of the intervention were used to determine the study’s results. The trial was registered with the Clinical Trials Registry - India (CTRI). Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) were followed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Statistical software was used for descriptive and inferential analysis.

RESULTS:

AAD occurred in 13.90% and 36.88% of individuals in the experimental and control groups, respectively (odds ratio: p: 0.27:0.001). Further, yogurt intervention was found to be effective in terms of increasing the consistency of the stool (p. 001*), decreasing the duration and onset of diarrhea (P ≤ .001*), reducing the frequency and amount of loose stool (P ≤ .001*), reducing the urgency of defecation (P ≤ .001*), the presence of abdominal discomfort (P ≤ .001*), and dehydration (P ≤ .001*).

CONCLUSION:

In hospitals, antibiotics are commonly prescribed, and the most common side effect of medications is diarrhea. Probiotic yogurt guards against this side effect of antibiotics. Nurse practitioners need to understand the value of probiotic yogurt as a preventive measure that could save children’s lives.
Perceived needs and recommendations on adolescent pregnancy-related services in the Philippines
Authors: Sy Alvin Duke R. , dela Luna Kim Leonard G. , Malimban Rowel C. , Estadilla John Oliver H. , Maglinab Jasper M. , Jeon Jihwan , Ji Heyeon
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Adolescent pregnancy remains to be a significant social and public health problem in the Philippines, despite the widespread implementation of a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health (SRH) law. The current study explored the perceptions on teenage pregnancy and adolescent-oriented services across different views of stakeholders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Twelve focus group discussions involving sets of teenage boys and girls, teenage mothers, and parents of the teenage mothers were conducted. Data analysis using a descriptive qualitative approach adopting both inductive and deductive thematic analysis was implemented on the gathered data.

RESULTS:

Four main themes emerged from the focus groups. First, discussants expressed community perceptions, emphasizing factors perceived to contribute to the occurrence of teenage pregnancy cases. Second, the adolescents expressed the coping responses they used or have observed in others to cope with teenage pregnancy, while the teenage mothers and their parents highlighted their immediate feelings toward the event. Last, the participants verbalized their perceptions of community services including criticisms and suggestions to improve the delivery of these services.

DISCUSSION:

The findings underscore the importance of stratifying and customizing the delivery of adolescent services as well as the possibility of expanding the content and coverage of community actions. This study also suggests that there is a need to create local ordinances that are culturally specific based on the Republic Act 10354 or the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012. These ordinances must be coupled with other programs on reproductive health including training of personnel, ensuring the availability of resources, and reframing service delivery to the needs of adolescents. Further research is needed to explore variability of perceptions across contexts and cultures and the need for more appropriate service delivery models, thus contributing to a better understanding of teenage pregnancy and more tangible impact toward its reduction.
Integrating narrative assessments in medical education by overcoming the existing challenges
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh R. , Bobhate Prateek S. , Badge Ankit K. , Tiwade Yugeshwari R.
Published: August 2024

Narrative assessments in medical education have a broad scope and they extend way beyond the boundaries and limitations of traditional grading methods. Acknowledging the merits of narrative assessments in the making of a complete healthcare professional, every institution should aim to structurally introduce these forms of qualitative assessments within their set-ups. Although narrative assessments offer multiple merits, we cannot ignore the presence of the challenges that are linked with them and there is an immense need to address these potential challenges, and we will essentially require thoughtful planning, regular training of teachers, and consistent efforts to refine the process of narrative assessments. In conclusion, in the field of medical education, narrative assessment has significant scope and merits to offer to facilitate the growth of medical students. However, we must be systematic in our approach to integrate these assessments in a meaningful manner and take specific measures to overcome the associated challenges.
Eating habit, body image, and gender – is there any association? – A comparative study among medical students from southern India
Authors: Aruna R , Muruganandam Partheeban , Niveatha S
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

An increase in overweight and obesity among young adults are major health concerns which can influence their self-perception about body image. Body image has received a great deal of attention among young people. Body dissatisfaction is an extremely powerful construct that pervades our self-esteem, resulting in psychological impact and disordered eating. This study examines the association of body image dissatisfaction, disordered eating, and body mass index among medical students and its relationship with gender.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 493 medical students. Body shape questionnaire (BSQ), Eating attitude test (EAT 26), and the Figure Rating Scale questionnaire were administered. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were calculated using standard tools.

RESULTS:

Around half the participants (54%) had a concern with regard to their body shape with a female preponderance, and one-fourth of the study population (25%) had a higher risk for eating disorder. BSQ and EAT26 questionnaires had a significant positive correlation with BMI and WC.

CONCLUSION:

This study highlights a high prevalence of body image dissatisfaction among medical students who have direct positive correlation with BMI and WC. Health education programs addressing optimal weight and active lifestyle should be emphasized to reduce psychological burden in future.
Barriers to reporting medical errors from the perspective of obstetric residents: A qualitative study
Authors: Ghaffari Reza , Nourizadeh Roghaiyeh , Hajizadeh Khadijeh , Vaezi Maryam
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND:

Patient safety is one of the basic dimensions of quality of care. Medical errors are one of the most important and influential factors in the quality of care and clinical outcomes, which can have a significant economic effect. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to reporting medical errors from the perspective of obstetric residents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a qualitative study using a conventional content analysis approach. Data collection was performed through 18 semi-structured and in-depth individual interviews and a group discussion session with 13 obstetricians in Tabriz, Iran. Purposeful sampling started in December 2021 and continued until data saturation in October 2022. Findings were analyzed concurrently with data collection using MAXQDA 10 software.

RESULTS:

Four categories were obtained after analysis of the data: individual and organizational factors, the nature of the error, the educational hierarchy, and the fear of reactions and consequences of error reporting.

CONCLUSION:

Considering the importance of patient safety, it is necessary to improve the quality of education and awareness of residents and direct supervision of attending, emphasize promoting professional communication and changing educational policies and strategies to reduce errors, and remove barriers to error reporting. Instead of blaming those in error, the organizational culture should support error reporting and reform the error-prone system, through which positive results will be achieved for both patients and healthcare providers.