bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidating postoperative dynamics in tractional retinal detachment: a systematic review and meta-analysis of structural and functional outcomes following diabetic vitrectomy, including an analysis of postoperative complications
Authors: Quiroz-Reyes Miguel A. , Quiroz-Gonzalez Erick A. , Quiroz-Gonzalez Miguel A. , Lima-Gomez Virgilio
Published: December 2024

This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of diabetic vitrectomy for treating tractional retinal detachment (TRD) by assessing visual acuity improvements, retinal reattachment success rates, and the frequency of postoperative complications. A comprehensive literature search identified 1,211 studies, 30 of which met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The meta-analyses were conducted via random effects models to account for heterogeneity. The primary outcomes were visual acuity improvement and retinal reattachment success, whereas postoperative complications were analyzed as secondary outcomes. Funnel plots, trim-and-fill methods, and Egger’s regression tests were employed to assess and adjust for publication bias. The meta-analysis included data from 1,844 eyes across 30 studies. The pooled mean difference (MD) in visual acuity following diabetic vitrectomy was 0.80 logMAR (95% CI: 0.58–1.01, p < 0.0001), with significant heterogeneity (I² = 95%). The trim-and-fill method adjusted the MD to 1.15 (95% CI: 0.85–1.45), indicating potential publication bias. The pooled proportion of retinal reattachment success was 94.63% (95% CI: 90.88–96.89%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 82.2%). Egger’s regression test confirmed publication bias in the retinal reattachment data (t = 6.07, df = 25, p < 0.0001). The most common postoperative complications were vitreous hemorrhage (8.2%, 0–41%), elevated intraocular pressure (7.3%, 0–25%), and cataract formation (10.3%, 0–43%). Diabetic vitrectomy significantly improves visual acuity and achieves high retinal reattachment success rates in patients with TRD despite considerable heterogeneity across studies. However, a critical limitation of the current literature is the lack of comprehensive reporting of essential markers of perfusion, such as the choroidal vascularity index and choriocapillaris flow area, which are crucial for a thorough understanding of the impact of vitrectomy on ocular perfusion and its correlation with structural and functional outcomes. These findings also highlight the need for vigilant postoperative management to mitigate common complications. Adjustments for publication bias via the trim-and-fill method suggest that the initial estimates of efficacy may be optimistic, but the overall benefits of the procedure remain substantial. Further research is warranted to standardize surgical techniques, include detailed perfusion outcomes, and enhance the reliability of future meta-analyses. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered.
Gender-affirming medical treatment for adolescents: a critical reflection on “effective” treatment outcomes
Authors: Oosthoek Ezra D. , Stanwich Skye , Gerritse Karl , Doyle David Matthew , de Vries Annelou L.C.
Published: December 2024

Background

The scrutiny surrounding gender-affirming medical treatment (GAMT) for youth has increased, particularly concerning the limited evidence on long-term treatment outcomes. The Standards of Care 8 by the World Professional Association for Transgender Health addresses this by outlining research evidence suggesting “effective” outcomes of GAMT for adolescents. However, claims concerning what are considered “effective” outcomes of GAMT for adolescents remain implicit, requiring further reflection.

Methods

Using trans negativity as a theoretical lens, we conducted a theory-informed reflexive thematic analysis of the literature cited in the “Research Evidence” section of the SOC8 Adolescents chapter. We selected 16 articles that used quantitative measures to assess GAMT outcomes for youth, examining how “effective” outcomes were framed and interpreted to uncover implicit and explicit normative assumptions within the evidence base.

Results

A total of 44 different measures were used to assess GAMT outcomes for youth, covering physical, psychological, and psychosocial constructs. We identified four main themes regarding the normative assumptions of “effective” treatment outcomes: (1) doing bad: experiencing distress before GAMT, (2) moving toward a static gender identity and binary presentation, (3) doing better: overall improvement after GAMT, and (4) the absence of regret. These themes reveal implicit norms about what GAMT for youth should achieve, with improvement being the benchmark for “effectiveness.”

Discussion

We critically reflect on these themes through the lens of trans negativity to challenge what constitutes “effective” GAMT outcomes for youth. We explore how improvement justifies GAMT for youth and address the limitations of this notion.

Conclusions

We emphasize the need for an explicit discussion on the objectives of GAMT for adolescents. The linear narrative of improvement in GAMT for adolescents is limited and fails to capture the complexity of GAMT experiences. With currently no consensus on how the “effectiveness” of GAMT for adolescents is assessed, this article calls for participatory action research that centers the voices of young TGD individuals.
Production and evaluation of probiotic brown yoghurt made from buffalo milk as an innovative functional dairy product
Authors: El-Hadad Sameh S. , El-Aziz Mahmoud Abd , Fouad Mohamed T. , Sayed Ahmed F. , Sayed Rehab S.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Brown fermented milk has become more popular with consumers due to its high nutritional value, creamy texture, delicious caramel flavor, and brownish color. Brown yoghurt (BY), made from buffalo milk fortified with probiotic bacteria was evaluated as an innovative functional dairy product.

Methods

Standardized buffalo milk with a 1:1 protein/fat ratio was homogenized and browned at 97 ± 1 °C for 4 h. At 42 °C, it was inoculated with a 2.0% mixed starter culture and then divided into 4 portions. Bifidobacterium bifidum NRRL B-41410 and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus NRRL B-442, as probiotic bacteria, were added individually or in combination at a rate of 1.0% to create three treatments. The last portion without probiotics was served as a control BY.

Results

B. bifidum showed the highest viable counts when added alone or in combination with L. rhamnosus, particularly on days 7 and 15. However, the addition of B. bifidum did not improve the physical and sensory properties of the BY, which were similar to those of the control. Adding L. rhamnosus, either alone (T3) or in combination with B. bifidum (T4), greatly improved the viscosity, hardness, flavor compounds, and sensory scores of the BY. The antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS radicals was also significantly enhanced. T3 and T4 also had a thicker body, a smoother and creamier texture, and a light caramel taste combined with a pleasant sour taste. Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentration in BY was affected slightly by bacteria strains and storage time.

Conclusions

Standardized buffalo milk fortified with L. rhamnosus alone or in combination with B. bifidum can produce a higher-quality BY that is more acceptable as an innovative functional dairy product.
3-Dimensional morphological characterization of neuroretinal microglia in Alzheimer’s disease via machine learning
Authors: Nassrallah Wissam B. , Li Hao Ran , Irani Lyden , Wijesinghe Printha , Hogg Peter William , Hui Lucy , Oh Jean , Mackenzie Ian R. , Hirsch-Reinshagen Veronica , Hsiung Ging-Yuek Robin , Pham Wellington , Lee Sieun , Matsubara Joanne A.
Published: December 2024

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease that affects 47.5 million people worldwide. AD is characterised by the formation of plaques containing extracellular amyloid-β (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyper-phosphorylated tau proteins (pTau). Aβ gradually accumulates in the brain up to 20 years before the clinical onset of dementia, making it a compelling candidate for early detection of AD. It has been shown that there is increased deposition of Aβs in AD patients’ retinas. However, little is known about microglia’s ability to function and clear Aβ within the retina of AD and control eyes. We labelled microglia with ionised calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA-1) in AD and age-matched control donor retinas. We then used interactive machine learning to segment individual microglia in 3D. In the temporal mid-peripheral region, we found that the number of microglia was significantly lower in AD retinas compared to controls. Unexpectedly, the size of the microglia was significantly larger in the AD retinas compared to controls. We also labelled retinal microglia for Cluster of Differentiation 68 (CD68), a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed by cells in the monocyte lineage and a marker of phagocytic activity and activated microglia. The size of CD68 + cells was statistically different between AD and control microglial, with CD68 + cells being larger in AD. In contrast, there was no difference in either size or shape for CD68- microglia between the two groups, suggesting an important difference in the active states of CD68 + microglia in AD retina. There was also significantly increased CD68 immunoreactivity in individual microglia within the AD group. Overall, this study reveals unique differences in the size and activity of the retinal microglia, which may relate to their potential chronic activation due to increased levels of Aβs in the AD retina.
Optimal design of round-oval-round roll pass for the steel bar rolling process
Authors: Rashad Mostafa , Magdi Abdelrhman , Ahmed Mohamed Ezz , Metwalli Sayed M.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to determine the optimal values of the round-oval-round roll pass design parameters. This was applied on two consecutive passes: round-oval and oval-round. That produces a circular cross section from an input of a larger circular cross section through an intermediate oval pass. The design variables were the oval groove radius and depth. The optimization objectives were to minimize the rolling torque and to maximize the area reduction ratio. A nonlinear, double-stage, three-dimensional finite element model (FEM) is used to calculate the rolling torque and the output shape dimensions. The two-staged FEM yielded realistic and highly accurate results as it imitates the real rolling process, using the actual oval results of the first step directly as input to the second step. The results of the FEM were verified experimentally. A polynomial surrogate meta-model, representing the rolling process, was developed based on the FEM utilizing multivariate regression. Optimal design solutions and design curves were developed. The established optimization procedures achieved a reduction in rolling torque of more than 6% or an increase in the area reduction ratio of up to 11%. The optimal solutions were confirmed using FE and experiment.
Enhancing seawater desalination efficiency through optimized pulsed electric field parameters in electrodialysis
Authors: A.Elkhwass Hussein , Negm M. , Kamal Sherif A.
Published: December 2024

Seawater desalination is essential for addressing global freshwater scarcity, but it faces challenges like energy consumption and membrane fouling. This study investigates the use of pulsed electric fields (PEF) to enhance the efficiency of the electrodialysis (ED) desalination process. An experimental setup was developed to evaluate the impact of PEF parameters, such as frequency and duty cycle, on the removal of major seawater ions (Na⁺, Mg2⁺, Ca2⁺, K⁺, Cl−, and SO₄2−). And the influence of varying frequencies (0.9 kHz to 2 kHz) on ion removal rates, total dissolved salts (TDS), conductivity, pH, and energy consumption was evaluated. The results demonstrate that higher frequencies (1.85–2 kHz) significantly improve the removal rates of sodium and sulfate ions, achieving up to 90% removal, respectively. TDS concentration was reduced from 50,000 ppm to as low as 1000 ppm, indicating the potential of PEF-enhanced ED for efficient desalination. The analysis reveals an inverse relationship between salt concentration and electrical resistance, highlighting the need to optimize PEF parameters to leverage conductivity changes. Stable pH values and reduced water hardness further confirm the water quality improvements achieved through the PEF-enhanced ED process. The application of (PEF) in the ED process resulted in up to a 30% reduction in energy consumption and an 80% decrease in (TDS) concentration, from the initial 50,000 ppm to as low as 9912.6 ppm under optimized operating conditions, demonstrating the significant efficiency improvements achieved through this approach. This study provides valuable insights into the optimization of pulsed electric field conditions for enhanced seawater desalination, offering a promising approach to address the challenges associated with conventional desalination technologies.
Least-squares Reverse Time Migration in Viscoacoustic Tilted Transversely Isotropic Media
Authors: Huang Jianping , Mu Xinru , Yang Jidong , Su Laiyuan
Published: December 2024

Iterative optimization-based least-squares reverse time migration (LSRTM) has proven effective in reducing imaging artifacts, enhancing amplitudes, and improving imaging resolution. We utilize a pure viscoacoustic tilted transversely isotropic (TTI) wave equation with separate amplitude attenuation and phase dispersion terms to implement attenuation-compensated LSRTM. This viscoacoustic anisotropic wave equation enables attenuation compensation during the gradient calculation, which in turn accelerates the convergence of LSRTM. However, incorporating an attenuation-compensation-based wavefield propagator into the gradient calculation significantly amplifies high-frequency noise, which can lead to numerical instability. To address this, we apply a window function to the plane wave solution of the amplitude-compensated wavefield extrapolation operator. This method allows us to derive an explicit and stable operator for simulating attenuation-compensated wavefields. Additionally, we develop Born modeling and gradient update operators based on both amplitude-attenuated and attenuation-compensated wavefield simulation operators, and we implement attenuation-compensated TTI LSRTM. Synthetic tests demonstrate that the proposed attenuation-compensated TTI LSRTM effectively reduces imaging noise, enhances amplitudes, and improves imaging resolution.
Attenuation-compensated viscoelastic reverse time migration with finite difference operators
Authors: Mu Xinru , Alkhalifah Tariq , Huang Jianping
Published: December 2024

The constant-Q viscoelastic wave equation, which includes decoupled amplitude attenuation and phase dispersion terms, is commonly used for attenuation-compensated reverse time migration (RTM). However, this equation involves fractional Laplacian operators and typically requires computationally intensive spectral methods. Efficient implementation is crucial for practical applications. To address this, we derive a new isotropic viscoelastic wave equation based on the standard linear solid model, which also contains decoupled amplitude attenuation and phase dispersion terms. This new equation can be solved using an efficient finite-difference method in the time domain. Consequently, we develop a viscoelastic RTM with attenuation compensation. Numerical simulations demonstrate that this equation accurately and efficiently simulates the decoupled amplitude loss and phase dispersion characteristics.
Mitigating Postoperative Fistula Risks in Laparoscopic Pancreatic Enucleation: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Li Lin , Li Xuechuan , Liu Ke , Wu Wenguang , Li Maolan , Liu Yingbin
Published: December 2024

Background

Pancreatic enucleation is a reliable surgical method for treating benign and borderline pancreatic tumors; however, the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is high, especially when the tumor is close to the main pancreatic duct. This study aimed to reduce the incidence of pancreatic fistula by preoperative placement of pancreatic stents and to summarize our center's experience with this procedure.

Methods

From June 2020 to July 2023, patients diagnosed with benign or borderline pancreatic tumors at Renji Hospital were included. The pancreatic duct stent is placed through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography on the day of surgery or 1 day before surgery. The effectiveness of preoperative pancreatic stent placement in reducing pancreatic fistula was investigated by comparing the incidence of perioperative and postoperative complications.

Results

Overall, 63 patients were included in the study, 41 of whom had preoperative pancreatic stents. Multivariate logistic regression showed that tumors located in proximity to the main pancreatic duct (≤ 2 mm) (odds ratio [OR] 5.58, p = 0.020) is an independent risk factor for pancreatic fistula, while preoperative stent placement (OR 0.23, p = 0.021) significantly reduces the occurrence of pancreatic fistula. There was no difference in the incidence of grade Ш–IV complications (p = 0.33) and postoperative pancreatitis (p > 0.99) between groups with or without pancreatic stent.

Conclusion

Preoperative placement of pancreatic stents is associated with a lower incidence of pancreatic fistula, especially in patients with tumors adjacent to the main pancreatic duct. Moreover, preoperative pancreatic stents do not increase the incidence of postoperative pancreatitis or grade Ш–IV complications.
Kaynakları ve Etkileri Açısından Ali Kuşçu’nun Sayı Tanımı
Authors: Fazlıoğlu İhsan
Published: December 2024

Bu çalışmada Ali Kuşçu’nun ‘sayı tanımı’, birlik, çokluk, bir, çok, nicelik, toplam, sayma, vb. kavramlar etrafında ele alınacaktır. Öncelikle konunun önemini tebarüz ettirmek için çağdaş matematik felsefesinde ‘sayı tanımı’ hakkındaki tartışmalara çok kısa bir göz atılacaktır. Akabinde Ali Kuşçu’nun konuyla ilgili yaklaşımı hem el-Muhammediyye fi’l-hisâb hem de Şerhu’t-Tecrîd adlı eserleri üzerinden takip edilecek ve düşünceleri çözümlenecektir. Ayrıca, Ali Kuşçu’nun yaklaşımıyla bir mukâyese için Şemseddin İsfehânî’nin Tesdîdü’l-kavâid fî şerhi Tecrîdi’l-akâid adlı şerhi ile Seyyid Şerîf’in Hâşiye’sindeki konuyla ilgili düşünceler kısaca serimlenecektir. Ali Kuşçu’nun temsil ettiği tutumun arka-planı, özellikle Tebriz matematik-astronomi okulu mensuplarının, Nizâmuddin Nîsâbûrî, İbn Havvâm, Kemâluddin Fârisî ile Cemâluddin Turkistânî, Ebü’l-Hasan Behmenî ve Ali b. el-Ğarbî’nin kaleme aldığı eserler ile Ali Kuşçu’nun da üyesi bulunduğu Semerkand matematik-astronomi okulu mensubu Cemşîd Kâşî’nin Miftâhu’l-hussâb adlı kitabı üzerinden inşa edilecektir. Daha sonra, Ali Kuşçu’nun İstanbul’da tetiklediği tartışmanın izleri sürülerek, Fenârîzâde Ali Çelebî gibi matematikçiler ile muhâsebe matematikçisi Kâtib Alâuddin Yusuf‘un konuyla ilgili değerlendirmeleri ele alınacak, tüm bunların Takiyuddin Râsıd’daki izdüşümleri göz önünde bulundurularak kısa bir değerlendirmesi yapılacaktır.
Bir-Çok Açısından Ali Kuşçu’da Yüklemleme
Authors: Özturan Mehmet
Published: December 2024

Bu makale, Ali Kuşçu’nun (ö. 879/1474) Şerhu Tecrîdi’l-akâid eseri üzerinden metafiziğin temel kavramlarından birlik (vahdet) ile yüklemleme şeması, yani “kategorik önerme, konu ve yüklemin bir açıdan birleşmesini, başka bir açıdan ise farklılaşmasını gerektirir” önermesi arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemektedir. Bu şema, Fahreddin er-Râzî’nin (ö. 606/1210) eserlerinden ilham alınarak Nasîruddin et-Tûsî (ö. 672/1274) tarafından Tecrîdü’l-i‘tikâd’a taşınmış ve böylece felsefi kelam kitaplarının, özellikle de Tecrîdü’l-i‘tikâd şerhlerinin gündemine girmiştir. Tecrîdü’l-i‘tikâd üzerine yapılan şerhler, ‘haml’ başlığı altında bu şemanın temellendirilmesine ilişkin çeşitli yaklaşımlar sunmaktadır. Fakat aynı şema, aynı kitapta bambaşka bir bağlamda, vahdet-kesret başlığı altında da incelenmektedir: Haml başlığı altında kategorik önermede konu terimin ve yüklem teriminin bir cihetten birlik (ittihad) oluşturması bir başka cihetten de farklı olması gerektiği söylenirken, vahdet-kesret başlığında da ‘bir’ ve ‘çok’ sıfatlarını alan şeylerin bir cihetten ‘bir’ başka bir cihetten ‘çok’ olması gerektiği söylenmektedir. Dolayısıyla birlik ve çokluk hem mantıksal hem de metafiziksel iki ayrı bağlamda ele alınmaktadır. Bu makalede, Kuşçu’nun şerhini analiz ederek, vahdet-kesret ve kategorik önermelerdeki yüklemlemenin cihetler özelinde görünen bu kesişimini vurgulamaya çalışacağım ki bu, henüz gereken ilgiyi görmemiş bir husustur. Bu açıdan makale, metafiziğin genel kavramlarından vahdet ve kesreti kategorik önermeler gibi mantıksal unsurlar ile karşılaştırarak mantıksal kavramları metafiziksel temelleri ile birlikte ele almanın önemine katkı sunmaktadır.
Zihinselci Eğilimin İzinde: Ali Kuşçu’ya Göre Mahiyet, Zihin ve Gerçeklik
Authors: Üçer İbrahim Halil
Published: December 2024

İbn Sînâ sonrası İslam felsefe geleneğini meşgul eden en canlı tartışmalardan biri mahiyetlerin dışta nasıl bulunduğu ve onlara dair tümel bilgimiz ile haricî varlık arasındaki mutabakat ilişkisinin nasıl kurulacağıyla ilgilidir. Özellikle Fahreddin er-Râzî’nin İbn Sînâcı zihnî temsil anlayışına yönelttiği ve akıldaki suretlerin dıştaki mücerred tabiatları yansıtmadığını öne süren eleştiri neticesinde, temsil teorisini sürdürmeyi amaçlayan düşünürler İbn Sînâ’nın metafiziksel gerçekçiliğinden uzaklaşan yeni bir tutum geliştirmişlerdir. Bu tutum etrafında onlar tikel cevherlerin duyulur yüzü altında, duyulur olmayan ve aynı türe ait tikel cevherlerin tümünde ortak olan bir tabiatın mevcut olduğu anlayışını terk ederek dış varlıkta yalnızca tikel cevherlerin bulunduğunu savunmaya başlamışlardır. İbn Sînâ’nın dışta tikellerin parçası olarak mevcut olduğunu söylediği doğal tümelin haricî varlığını reddetme anlamına gelen bu yaklaşıma ilaveten onlar, tümel tabiatların dışta değil yalnızca zihinde bulunduğunu öne sürmüştür. Tümel tabiatların zihinde ortaya çıkışını tikeller ve onların duyulur özellikleri arasındaki bir mukayese ertesinde meydana gelen aklî suret üzerindeki zihinsel işlemlerle açıklayan bu tutum, zihin ve dış arasındaki mutabakatı da aklî suret ile hariçteki suret arasındaki mutabakat ilişkisinden çıkartarak yeni bir yoruma tâbi tutmuştur. Tabiatların haricî varlığını reddederek İbn Sînâ’nın metafiziksel gerçekliğinin ontolojik yönünü, tabiat denildiğinde aslında tikellerin kastedildiğini öne sürerek semantik yönünü, bildiğimiz şeylerin dıştaki bu tabiat değil tikeller arasındaki ortak özellikler olduğunu ve tümel tabiatların yalnızca zihinde bulunduğunu savunarak da epistemolojik yönünü budayan bu yeni tutum, metafizik gerçekçiliğin hârice bakan kısmını zayıflatıp zihne bakan kısmını güçlendirdiği için zihinselci eğilim olarak adlandırılmıştır. Bu makalede Nasîruddin et-Tûsî ile başlayıp Kutbüddin er-Râzî ile zirvesine çıkan zihinselci eğilimin on beşinci yüzyılda Ali Kuşçu tarafından nasıl sürdürüldüğü gösterilecek, söz konusu eğilimin bir İbn Sînâ yorumu olmaktan uzaklaşarak nasıl bağımsız yeni bir felsefî tutuma evrildiği tartışılacaktır.
Construction of an interactive humanistic nursing model in emergency rescue of epidemic outbreaks
Authors: Feng Yaning , Ma Chuntao , Feng Zhongxian , Bian Yajing , Leng Yuqing , Yuan Meijin
Published: December 2024

Objective: To explore the clinical efficacy of the interactive humanistic nursing model in emergency rescue of epidemic outbreaks.
Methods: This was a retrospective study. A total of 200 patients with novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP) admitted to The First Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University between December 2022 and March 2023 were selected and divided into the observation group(n=100) and the control group(n=100) according to different nursing methods used. Patients in the control group received conventional basic nursing intervention, and those in the observation group received humanistic nursing based on basic nursing care. Compared the psychological status, treatment compliance, clinical efficacy, and nursing quality management between the two groups of patients.
Results: The treatment compliance of both groups of patients was significantly improved after intervention, and the degree of improvement in the observation group was higher than that in the control group, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05). Hospital stay and time to symptom relief and disappearance were shortened in the observation group compared with those in the control group, with statistically significant differences (p<0.05). The scores of nursing efficacy, nursing satisfaction, and nursing safety were increased in the observation group compared with those in the control group, with statistically significant differences (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The interactive humanistic nursing model effectively improves the psychological status of patients and increases treatment compliance, clinical efficacy, and nursing quality, which is worthy of clinical application.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9705
How to cite this: Feng Y, Ma C, Feng Z, Bian Y, Leng Y, Yuan M. Construction of an interactive humanistic nursing model in emergency rescue of epidemic outbreaks. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):171-175. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9705
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparing the efficacy of probiotic plus antibiotic with the Antibiotic Therapy alone on the recurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis
Authors: Butt Saima Ashraf , Haroon Amara , Fayyaz Asiya
Published: December 2024

Objective: To compare the efficacy of a probiotic plus antibiotic with antibiotic therapy alone for the prevention of the recurrence of bacterial vaginosis.
Method: A Randomized control trial was conducted in the Gynecological Department of Nishtar Hospital, Multan, between July 2022 and June 2023. One hundred and twenty (N=120) women with bacterial vaginosis, all cured with metronidazole, were enrolled and randomized. In Group-A, Probiotics were administered once a day for 14 days following antibiotic treatment (Tab Metronidazole 400mg, three times a day for seven days). In Group-B, only oral antibiotics were given. The patients were followed up in four visits for five months for bacterial vaginosis recurrence (responders, partial responders, non-responders, and drop-outs) using Amsel criteria by vaginal swabs. All the data was collected on a structured Performa.
Results: The mean age of enrolled 120 women was 32.28±2.58, and 111(92.5%) were married. Of 120 enrolled women, 8 (6.7%) were dropped out. Evaluating the recurrence rate, the probiotic group (n=57) had fewer recurrences than the placebo (n=55) (8.9% vs 21.4%, p-value <0.05). Group-A had a better responder rate at five months of follow-up than the placebo group (39.2% vs. 25.8%) (RR 0.31, 95%CI: 0.1450-0.7998, p-Value <0.05). Comparing the effect of probiotics on the components of the Amsel criteria, only vaginal discharge had a statistically significant reduction by using probiotics plus antibiotics (p-value ≤0.05).
Conclusion: This trial showed that probiotics plus antibiotics significantly reduced bacterial vaginosis recurrences than antibiotics alone.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9922
How to cite this: Ashraf S, Haroon A, Fayyaz A. Comparing the efficacy of probiotic plus antibiotic with the Antibiotic Therapy alone on the recurrence of Bacterial Vaginosis. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(1):125-129. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.1.9922
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Epidemiological, Gross Morphological, And Histopathological Analysis Of Postmortem Cases Of Hanging - An Observational Study
Authors: Chacko Alana , Gupta Chandni , Palimar Vikram , Nayak M Deepak
Published: December 2024

Background Death due to hanging is commonly seen. Sometime the ligature mark will be very prominent and in some cases it might not. In those cases, the post-mortem examination with its gross morphological findings and histopathological analysis, becomes significantly important. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the patterns of epidemiological, gross morphological, and histopathological features in hanging cases. Methods The study was conducted on 46 cases of hanging. Their sociodemographic features were collected. Gross morphological analysis of the ligature mark and various measurements were taken. Later tissue from the ligature mark was sent for histopathological analysis. Statistical analysis was performed on the collected parameters. Results Significant male preponderance was observed in hanging cases. The maximum number of cases of hanging were observed in the fourth decade of life. Daily wage workers were the most significantly affected population. Depression was cited as the cause of suicide in most cases. Carotid intimal tears and injuries to bony and cartilaginous structures were present in smaller numbers. Vital reaction was observed in all 46 cases. Classification of fwound vitality showed a correlation to known time since injury. Conclusion The results of the present study showed that socio-demographic factors play a significant role in the circumstances leading to suicidal deaths. Therefore, in reducing the burden of suicidal deaths, these factors must be addressed. To identify the cause of death as hanging analysis of various gross features and histopathology are very important and should be conducted carefully.
Innovative approaches to benign prostatic hyperplasia management: Options beyond conventional treatment strategies
Authors: Agu Peter Chinedu , Tusubira Deusdedit , Aja Patrick Maduabuchi
Published: December 2024

This review explored Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a prevalent condition among aging males to elucidate its multifaceted nature and emerging treatment options. It meticulously examined the pathophysiology, risk factors, and clinical presentation of BPH to shed light on its profound impact on the quality of patients’ lives. The review comprehensively presented management strategies, including pharmacological and surgical interventions, emphasizing the importance of tailored or individualized treatment plans. Furthermore, it scrutinized the emergence of technologies like laser therapy and minimally invasive procedures for their efficacy and safety profiles in managing BPH. The review culminates by underscoring the imperative for ongoing research endeavors to refine therapeutic approaches and optimize outcomes for individuals grappling with BPH to pave the way for enhanced patient care and well-being.
Innovative vanillin yielding from lignin: process modelling and assessment
Authors: Cabeza Sánchez Álvaro , Trygve Berglihn Olaf , Ottaviano Eloy , Rücker Theresa , Pettersen Torbjørn , Wittgens Bernd , Aliko Abraham , Gálvez Lucía , López María
Published: December 2024

In this work, we present the modelling of a novel process to promote vanillin production from lignin using PODIC®. The model includes the PODIC® production, lignin depolymerisation, and final product separation. Furthermore, a complete assessment of the proposed process in terms of economic and environmental performance was carried out. Regarding the economic evaluation, a comprehensive study was done leading to high investment (13.76 €/kg lignin) and operational (5.16 €/kg lignin) costs. The main reasons for the elevated costs were identified and alternative process configurations were evaluated. Despite this, the main result was that the proposed process is challenging to commercialize. An environmental analysis of the environmental impacts generated by the overall production process of vanillin and phenolic compounds was carried out considering energy consumption, human health, greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption and human toxicity. Electricity consumption of the PODIC® reactor was identified as the hotspot of the system. The CO2 emissions were also compared with the Borregaard process and found to be similar.
How science and policy came together and made a global impact: The EU common list of COVID-19 antigen tests
Authors: Raffael Barbara , Petrillo Mauro , Leoni Gabriele , Wiesenthal Tobias , Kuipers Yoline , Querci Maddalena
Published: December 2024

Science can play a pivotal role in providing support to public health policy making processes, and to ensure effective and efficient implementation of policies. This work illustrates how science was integrated into policymaking during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, in relation to countries’ COVID-19 antigen testing strategies as well as the implementation of Regulation (EU) 2021/953 on the EU Digital COVID Certificate. The lessons learnt during this process as well as the critical steps taken, and concrete recommendations, have been identified and capitalised and turned into a list of science-based advice. The availability of an already established mechanism that can be quickly adapted in case of need, is likely to be highly beneficial in case of a future public health emergency.
Two pilot case studies for bridge-scour monitoring
Authors: Perugini Eleonora , Tubaldi Enrico
Published: December 2024

Bridge scour is a leading cause of bridge failures worldwide, exacerbated by climate change and increasing flood risks. Real-time data collection plays a critical role in effective flood risk management and decision-making, ultimately enhancing infrastructure resilience. The EU-funded RAMOBRIS (Risk Assessment and Monitoring for Bridges under Scour Hazard) project investigated cost-effective monitoring approaches to develop a novel, multidisciplinary strategy for assessing the risk of critical bridges exposed to scour. This manuscript outlines the monitoring strategy developed during the project, with a focus on the application of cost-effective sensors for hydraulic monitoring. The adopted methodology employs an indirect approach using low-cost remote sensing sensors to assess hydraulic properties and estimate scour depth through advanced formulas. Two pilot case studies were conducted on high-risk masonry bridges over the River Nith in Scotland. Various sensors were installed to evaluate their effectiveness in capturing hydraulic data and monitoring scour dynamics. Data from low-cost sensors were evaluated against data collected from higher-cost sensors or other available datasets. The results showed that low-cost sensors for measuring water levels provided accuracy comparable to high-cost radar systems, while being more cost-effective and easier to install. Video data from solar cameras enabled extensive measurements of surface velocity and discharge, improving the understanding of flow dynamics. The study confirmed the feasibility of using image velocimetry techniques for long-term estimation of river velocity and discharge, although further validation is required. These findings highlight the potential of low-cost and innovative sensor technologies. The open-access dataset generated in this study, which will be periodically updated with new data, provides a valuable resource of real-world information for ongoing research in hydraulic monitoring and bridge safety assessment.
External validation of an admission risk score for predicting inpatient paediatric mortality in two Kenyan public hospitals.
Authors: Kamau Stephen , Kigo Joyce , Maina Michuki , Gachohi John
Published: December 2024

Background Early identification of children at risk of mortality during hospitalization is crucial in preventing mortality in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to externally validate an admission risk score for predicting inpatient paediatric mortality in resource-limited settings. Methods This retrospective study utilized routine clinical data of children aged ≤12 years admitted to two Kenyan public hospitals between January 2017 and October 2023. The admission risk score includes 13 clinical predictors, each assigned a value. Aggregate values were used to predict inpatient pediatric mortality, with a higher score indicating a greater risk of death. Children with scores of 0, 1–4 and ≥5 were categorized as low, moderate and high-risk categories, respectively. Discrimination was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated at different cutoff points. Results A total of 15,606 children were included in the study. Majority of the participants were male (8,847, 56.7%) and aged 12 – 59 months (7,222, 46.3%). Children classified as high-risk had a higher mortality rate (23.4%) than those classified as low risk (2%). The risk score demonstrated moderate discrimination, with an AUC of 0.73 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.71 – 0.75). A cutoff of ≥3 achieved a balance between sensitivity and specificity, with values of 63.8% (95% CI: 60.7%–66.9%) and 72.2% (95% CI: 71.5% - 72.9%), respectively, compared to other cutoff points. Conclusion The risk score performed moderately in predicting inpatient paediatric mortality in two Kenyan public hospitals. The risk score can be used with other clinical assessments to rapidly identify high-risk children and guide targeted interventions to prevent mortality.
FORMATION OF A STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL (USING THE EXAMPLE OF MARAL BREEDING IN THE ALTAI REPUBLIC)
Authors: Abdullayev Ilyоs S. , Akhmadeev Ravil G. , Avanesian Daniela N. , Vaslavskaya Irina Yu.
Published: December 2024

Background. Maral breeding is one of the key areas of animal husbandry development in the Altai Republic. The unique territory of the region allows for the development of maral farms, however, for the sustainable development of the territory, a sound strategy for the development of the maral breeding industry in the Altai Republic is needed, which will be based on scenarios for the formation of strategic alternatives for the development of the maral breeding complex in the region.
Purpose. The purpose of the study is to develop a strategy for the development of maral breeding in the Altai Republic.
Materials and methods. In the course of writing the work, such research methods were used as: the general scientific method of analysis and synthesis, statistical methods, as well as tabular methods.
Results. A strategy for the development of maral breeding in the Altai Republic has been developed.
Conclusion. The study identified a number of problems faced by maral farms in the region. The strategic development of maral breeding in the region is considered.
SOME ASPECTS OF BREEDING WITH POLEMONIUM CAERULEUM L.
Authors: Hazieva Firdaus M. , Korotkikh Irina N. , Basalaeva Irina V. , Samatadze Tat'yana Е.
Published: December 2024

Background. Methods of artificial polyploidization are not used enough in medicinal crop production. The use of colchicine causes obvious morphological changes in the obtained P. caeruleum polyploids and changes in the productivity of raw materials and seeds. The research was conducted at the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Medicinal Plants, Moscow region.
Purpose. Based on comparative biological, morphological and economically valuable features of diploid and tetraploid forms of the medicinal plant Polemonium caeruleum L. to identify and evaluate the obtained polyploid forms as a initial material in breeding.
Materials and methods. Polyploid plants of P. caeruleum were obtained for the first time in 2019 [6, 14]. In 2021-2022 (in the 2nd and 3rd year of vegetation) in generation C2, the biological, morphological and economically valuable signs of colchicine-induced tetraploid plants were studied. The control (initial form) is the cultivated variety "Lazur".
Results. For the first time, an assessment of the economic, biological and morphological parameters of the initial material of the medicinal culture of P. caeruleum obtained on the basis of colchicine-induced tetraploid plants is given. The economic and biological indicators of the initial material are higher than in the control: in terms of the yield of raw materials (rhizomes with roots) - by 21-52% and in terms of seed yield - by 44-53%. In terms of the amount of triterpene saponins in terms of β-escin, tetraploid plants met the requirements of the pharmacopoeia article (at least 10 %). The highest content of biologically active substances exceeded the control by 14-15 %.
Biometric and descriptive data were also obtained on the height, size and shape of inflorescences and leaves, stem thickness, color of plant parts, including the severity of anthocyanin staining. These distinctive morphological characteristics are easily identified and can be used for a preliminary assessment of the putative polyploid forms of P. caeruleum. Tetraploid plants have numerous shoots with anthocyanin-colored stems of greater thickness than those of control plants. The study of morphological features showed that colchicine-induced plants are stunted – up to 86% lower than control plants. The inflorescences are also smaller in size, but more dense and branched than in the control. The leaves of tetraploids are larger, have a dark green color of the leaf blade. The excess over the control in the length of the stem leaves was 12-32 %, in the width of the leaves – 7-25 %. Fewer seeds were formed, but they were larger. The weight of 1000 seeds increased by 5.5 % compared to the control.
Conclusion. As a result of research on a complex of biomorphological and economic and biological signs, promising numbers of P. caeruleum have been identified for further breeding work. The results of the study are relevant for the creation of new highly productive varieties of the P. caeruleum medicinal culture.
THE INFLUENCE OF SOIL AND CLIMATIC FEATURES OF THE DRY-STEPPE ZONE OF CHESTNUT SOILS OF THE VOLGOGRAD REGION ON THE YIELD AND QUALITY OF NEW VARIETIES OF WINTER WHEAT
Authors: Sapunkov Vitaly L. , Guzenko Andrey V.
Published: December 2024

Background. In the conditions of the dry steppe zone of the Lower Volga region, winter soft wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is considered the main food crop. It occupies about 2.0 million hectares of acreage in the Volgograd region. Basically, all farmers in our region sow time-tested varieties and do not pay attention to new varieties that are currently being bred by breeders.
The article presents the results of tests of new varieties of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), conducted in the dry-steppe zone of chestnut soils of the Volgograd region, in the fields of the farm "Kirsanov S.M." H. Zhutovo 1. The list of tested varieties was formed based on the high interest of farmers of the Volgograd region to the varieties of ANC "Donskoy" Zernograd.
During the tests conducted from 2018 to 2021, we selected the varieties most suitable for our conditions. Farmers are very interested in them as they have replaced old wheat varieties with new ones. The Ermak variety was taken over.
Methods. The technology of cultivating winter wheat varieties in field experiments was according to B. A. Dospekhov and the methodology of the state variety testing of agricultural crops.
Results. The density of the productive stem had the greatest impact on the yield of the tested varieties. The leaders in this indicator were the varieties Don Steppe and Lydia – 358 pcs./m2. On average, the number of productive stems was in the range 312-358 pcs./m2. At the same time, the weight of 1000 seeds did not change significantly, from 34.6 to 36.0 g, on average, during the test period.
The best yields were shown by the varieties of winter wheat Don Steppe 3.31 t/ha and Lydia 3.38 t/ha.
Despite the lack of fertilizers and top dressing, the Etude and Don Steppe varieties were able to demonstrate a fairly high level of protein accumulation in grain at the level of 11.9 and 12.0%, respectively.
Conclusion. As noted above, the conditions of the experiment did not allow winter wheat varieties to show high results in the accumulation of protein in the grain. However, the harsh background of the tests made it possible to objectively assess the potential of the varieties, their ability to show good results outside of stimulating fertilizing. Such varieties as Don Steppe and Etude were the undisputed leaders here. On average, over three years, they showed a result of 12.0 and 11.9%, respectively. Thus, according to the totality of indicators, such varieties of winter wheat as the Don Steppe, Lydia, the Beauty of the Don, Etude can be distinguished.
Interactive anatomy notebook "Spinal Cord"
Authors: Yalunin Nikolay Viktorovich , Shestakova Anastasia Alexandrovna , Ushakov Alexey Alexandrovich , Spirina Galina Alekseevna , Ganbarova Suzanna Ibragimovna , Seidova Zeinab Azerovna , Talanova Anna Alekseevna
Published: December 2024

"Human anatomy is the first fundamental science in the medical education system, which forms the basic knowledge for the subsequent study of all clinical disciplines. The Federal State educational standard of higher education in the specialties ""Pediatrics"", ""Medicine"" not only puts anatomy in a leading place among the disciplines of the medical and biological cycle, but also emphasizes the importance of anatomy for all disciplines of professional orientation
The interactive workbook for practical classes in human anatomy has been developed in accordance with the work program of the discipline provided for in the curriculum for students in the areas of ""Medicine"" and ""Pediatrics"".
The interactive notebook presents the main questions on the anatomy of the spinal cord, namely: the external structure, the structure of gray and white matter, as well as situational tasks. The relevance of the reviewed notebook is due to the fact that in the first years of study at the medical university, anatomy is a fundamental subject. The study of anatomy with a clinical focus, that is, subject-oriented to clinical disciplines, is one of the main tasks of this work.
The educational and methodological manual meets the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standard for the level of training ""Medicine"" and ""Pediatrics"" and can be recommended for publication and use in the educational process."