bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing forceps and self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet in removing metallic intraocular foreign bodies in 25-guage vitrectomy
Authors: Li Huajin , Zheng Kailing , Wang Huihang , Xie Maosong
Published: November 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the efficacy and efficiency of self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet in comparison with forceps in removing intraocular foreign bodies(IOFBs) undergoing 25-gauge(G) pars plana vitrectomy.
Methods
A total of 30 patients with metallic IOFB underwent 25-G PPV were enrolled into this study. Self-assembled intraocular rare earth magnet were used in 15 patients(bar group), and forceps were used in 15 patients(forceps group). Success rate of removing IOFB, time taken to remove IOFB, incidence of IOFB slippage and fall, iatrogenic retinal damages were compared between the two groups.
Results
There was no difference in success rate of removing IOFBs between the groups(93.3% and 100%, P = 0.5). The average time taken of removing FB was significantly shorter in bar group than in forceps group(145.9 ± 153 seconds and 339.5 ± 156.2 seconds, P = 0.005). None of the patients in bar group had IOFB slippage and fall, or related iatrogenic retinal damage in the process of removal. In forceps group, IOFB slippage and fall during removal were observed in 7 of 15(54.5%) patients, related iatrogenic retinal injuries were recorded in 6 of 15(40.0%) patients, both were significantly higher than bar group(P = 0.003).
Conclusions
Compared with common forceps, the assembled intraocular magnet can greatly reduce the possibility of IOFB slippage and fall, prevent related iatrogenic retinal damage, and shorten the time taken to remove IOFB. The assembled intraocular magnet can be an useful tool in removing metallic IOFBs in PPV.
Tele-education as a strategy to improve the implementation of perioperative recommendations of a clinical practice guideline for amputees: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Posada-Borrero Ana Maria , Lugo-Agudelo Luz-Helena , Aguirre-Acevedo Daniel Camilo , Salinas Fabio-Alonso , Velásquez-Correa Juan Carlos , Patiño-Lugo Daniel F. , Pastor-Durango Maria del Pilar , Valderrama-Molina Carlos Oliver , Plata-Contreras Jesús
Published: November 2023

Objective
To evaluate the effectiveness of a Tele-education strategy for improving the implementation of the perioperative recommendations of a clinical practice guideline (CPG) for lower limb amputee patients in health institutions.
Design:
Cluster randomized community intervention study.
Participants:
Three classes of participants took part in the study: Health institutions in which amputation or reconstruction surgeries were performed, and the health professionals and patients of these institutions.
Methods
There were two interventions, a strong strategy consisting of a tele-education online course based on the CPG for people with amputations (intervention group) and a weak strategy consisting of passive dissemination of the CPG (control group). The primary outcome was compliance with the prioritized perioperative recommendations of the CPG.
Results
Information was obtained from clinical charts of 418 amputated patients from six health institutions. Only 30% of the invited health professionals completed the online course. There were no significant differences in the compliance with perioperative recommendations between groups, with compliance scores of 42.7% in the intervention group and 43.1% in the control group.
Conclusion
After devising a Tele-educational strategy focused on significant patient results, we found low compliance with the evidence-based recommendations, and the desired behavioral changes in professionals were not achieved.
Stunting and Its Associated Factors among Children Below 5 Years Old on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia: Evidence from the National Health and Morbidity Survey
Authors:   Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Haron Muhammad Zulfahmi , Abdul Jalil Rohana ,   Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, A. Hamid Noor Aman ,   Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Omar Mohd Azahadi ,   Sector for Biostatistics and Data Repository Sector, National Institutes of Health (NIH), Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Abdullah Noor Hashimah ,   Non-Communicable Disease Unit, Disease Control Branch, Kelantan State Health Department, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

Background: Child malnutrition problems still occur in Malaysia, particularly stunting. This study aimed to determine the proportion of stunting among children below 5 years old and investigate the factors associated with stunting on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Methods: This study utilised data from the 2016 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the factors associated with malnutrition among non-stunted and stunted children. Results: The proportion of stunting among children below 5 years old in this East Coast region was 26.2%. When divided by state, Kelantan had the highest proportion of stunting, followed by Pahang and Terengganu, at 28.8%, 26.2% and 23.4%, respectively. In this study, the factors associated with stunting were children aged 24 months old–59 months old (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.26, 1.83; P < 0.001), male children (aOR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.23, 1.76; P < 0.001), Orang Asli children (aOR: 2.84; 95% CI: 1.86, 4.32; P < 0.001), children with low birth weight from 1,500 g to 2,499 g (aOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.36, 2.55; P < 0.001) and children from households that practice unsanitary waste disposal (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.16, 1.74; P = 0.001). Conclusion: Stunting among children under the age of 5 years old on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia remains a public health problem. To reduce the prevalence of stunting in this region, intervention programmes should be intensified. Emphasis should be placed on public health programmes that target the associated factors, such as dietary habits, Orang Asli children, low birth weight and unsanitary waste disposal.
Machine Learning Predictions on Outpatient No-Show Appointments in a Malaysia Major Tertiary Hospital
Authors:   Pathology Department, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Ahmad Hamdan Abdullah Fahim , Abu Bakar Azuraliza ,   Faculty of Information Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

Introduction: A no-show appointment occurs when a patient does not attend a previously booked appointment. This situation can cause other problems, such as discontinuity of patient treatments as well as a waste of both human and financial resources. One of the latest approaches to address this issue is predicting no-shows using machine learning techniques. This study aims to propose a predictive analytical approach for developing a patient no-show appointment model in Hospital Kuala Lumpur (HKL) using machine learning algorithms. Methods: This study uses outpatient data from the HKL’s Patient Management System (SPP) throughout 2019. The final data set has 246,943 appointment records with 13 attributes used for both descriptive and predictive analyses. The predictive analysis was carried out using seven machine learning algorithms, namely, logistic regression (LR), decision tree (DT), k-near neighbours (k-NN), Naïve Bayes (NB), random forest (RF), gradient boosting (GB) and multilayer perceptron (MLP). Results: The descriptive analysis showed that the no-show rate was 28%, and attributes such as the month of the appointment and the gender of the patient seem to influence the possibility of a patient not showing up . Evaluation of the predictive model found that the GB model had the highest accuracy of 78%, F1 score of 0.76 and area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.65. Conclusion: The predictive model could be used to formulate intervention steps to reduce no-shows, improving patient care quality.
A Review of L-Asparaginase Hypersensitivity in Paediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia Patients with Regard to the Measurement of Anti-Asparaginase Antibodies and Their Genetic Predisposition
Authors:   Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Tan Yan Qi , Loh C-Khai ,   Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Makpol Suzana ,   Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

L-asparaginase is effective as part of the first line childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) treatment regimen but suffers the risk of antibody production causing immunemediated sequelae. This article aimed to describe the clinical implication of L-asparaginase hypersensitivity and review the types of antibodies and genetic polymorphisms contributing to it. Clinical or subclinical L-asparaginase hypersensitivity may lead to suboptimum therapeutic effect and jeopardise the clinical outcome in ALL children. Anti-asparaginase antibodies immunoglobulin (Ig)G, IgM and IgE were identified in the L-asparaginase hypersensitivities. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is commonly used to quantify the IgG and IgM levels. The role of IgE in mediating L-asparaginase hypersensitivity is contradictory. Moreover, the presence of antibodies may not necessarily correlate inversely with the L-asparaginase efficacies in some studies. Patients with specific genetic variants have been shown to be more susceptible to clinical hypersensitivity of L-asparaginase. With the advance of technology, gene polymorphisms have been identified among Caucasians using whole-genome or exon sequencing, but the evidence is scanty among Asians. There is lack of pre-clinical study models that could help in understanding the pathophysiological pathway co-relating the gene expression and anti-asparaginase antibody formation. In conclusion, future research studies are required to fill the current gap in understanding the immune mediated reactions towards L-asparaginase upon its administration and its potential impact to the disease outcome.
Comparison of Muscle, Bone and Fat Indices between Stages of Sarcopenia in Postmenopausal Malaysian Women
Authors:   School of Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia, Zainol Abidin Nurdiana ,   Department of Community Health, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Published: November 2023

Background: The cumulative health impact of sarcopenia when it overlaps with obesity and osteoporosis is poorly understood. This cross-sectional study compared the muscle, bone and fat indices between stages of sarcopenia and determined the association of sarcopenia stages with adiposity and bone density in Malaysian postmenopausal women. Methods: One hundred and thirty-six postmenopausal Malaysian women from Semenyih and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia participated in the study. Muscle mass and body fat percentages (BFP) were assessed using a bioelectrical impedance analyser. Bone density was assessed using quantitative calcaneal ultrasonography. Handgrip strength (HGS) was assessed using a handgrip dynamometer. Gait speed was assessed using the 6-m walk test. The sarcopenia stage was classified into pre-sarcopenia, sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia. Results: The overall prevalence of participants with various stages of ‘sarcopenia’ was 29.4%. The rates of low bone density were 13.7%, 12.5%, 17.4% and 85.7% in the non-sarcopenic, pre-sarcopenic, sarcopenic and severe sarcopenic groups, respectively (P < 0.000). Age, adiposity, muscle mass, gait speed and bone density differed significantly between the reference (nonsarcopenic) and ‘severe sarcopenic’ groups. The ‘sarcopenic’ and ‘severe sarcopenic’ groups had common impairments whereby no significant differences were found in HGS and gait speed between them. Conclusion: The results showed significant correlations between sarcopenia stages and age, body weight, adiposity and bone density. Individuals with ‘sarcopenia’ had the same level of HGS and gait speed as those with severe forms of the disorder, implying that individuals with sarcopenia and severe sarcopenia were at the same level in terms of strength and endurance.
Chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities of Bangladesh-origin Jhum-cultivar basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) essential oil
Authors: BARUA Suman , DEWAN Kajalika , ISLAM Saiful , MOJUMDER Suman , SİKDER Ovi , SARKAR Rajib , HASEGAWA Hiroshi , RAHMAN Ismail M.m.
Published: November 2023

Essential oil (EO) from the sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) grown in the Jhum cultivations located in Bangladesh was screened for chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. EO yield from the Jhum-cultivar O. basilicum was 1.55% (v/w). Analysis of EO indicated the presence of several bioactive compounds, among which Geranial (35.5%) and cis-citral (26.2%) are of significant content. The EO showed antioxidant activities inhibiting DPPH radical with a mean value of 45.7% at 2.4 mg mL–1 of EO. The EO has susceptibility against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Typhi, Vibrio cholerae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Micrococcus spp.), with a notable activity against the Gram-positive bacteria.
Characterization and antibacterial activity of alkaloids and polyphenols extracts from Haplophyllum tuberculatum (Forssk.) A. Juss.
Authors: DJOUAHRA FAHEM Djamila , BENSMAIL Souhila , BOUTELDJA Razika , SARA Messad , FERHOUM Fatiha , BOURFIS Nassima , ACHEUK Fatma , FAZOUANE Fethia
Published: November 2023

Haplophyllum tuberculatum is a medicinal plant belonging to the Rutaceae family, is renowned for its various therapeutic properties. This study aims to characterize the alkaloids and polyphenol extracts from this plant and assess their antibacterial activity. Herein, the extraction of polyphenols and alkaloids from this plant was performed by the maceration method. Folin Ciacalteu’s method was used to estimate the total phenolic content, and the qualitative characterization of the two extracts was performed by thin-layer chromatography. Whilst, the antibacterial activity of the two extracts was tested with the disk diffusion method on a solid medium and the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of susceptible bacteria was determined using the agar dilution method. Our results indicate respective yields of 8.39% in polyphenols and 0.37% in alkaloid extracts, while the total phenolic content was estimated to be 74.45 mg GAE/g of dry matter in polyphenolic extract. Thin-layer chromatography analysis allowed choosing the system toluene-acetate-ethanol-concentrated ammonia (40:4:8:3, v/v) to separate H. tuberculatum alkaloids, and ethyl acetate-methanol-water (100:13.5:10, v/v/) for the separation of its polyphenols. The same analysis detected traces of quercitin, catechin, and rutin in the polyphenolic extract. Our findings demonstrated good antibacterial activity on Gram-positive strains such as Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, and moderate activity on Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27953, with MICs ranging from 0.625 to 10 mg/mL for alkaloids and from 5 to 20 mg/mL for polyphenols.
Inula viscosa L. (Asteraceae): A study on its antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, chromatographic fingerprinting profile
Authors: ÖKMEN Gülten , ARSLAN Kutbettin , TEKİN Rıdvan
Published: November 2023

Food products contaminated with pathogens and spoiled not only lead to a decrease in the quality and quantity of food products but also contribute to the spread of diseases, which are increasingly becoming a public health problem in both developed and developing countries. Due to the multiple resistance of these pathogens to antibiotics, the search for natural products with antimicrobial properties is becoming increasingly important. Inula viscosa has been used as a medicinal plant for a long time in many Mediterranean countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial effects of I. viscosa extracts against foodborne pathogens and their non-enzymatic antioxidant potential. Antimicrobial activity was measured using the disc diffusion method. Additionally, plant extracts were tested against 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azinobis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline 6-sulfonate) radicals for antioxidant activity. Inula viscosa showed the highest antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis with the methanol extract (19 mm zone diameter), while the lowest activity was observed against Salmonella Typhimurium, with inhibition zone diameters of 7 mm. The highest antioxidant activity was recorded as 77.5% for the DPPH• method and 73.8% for the ABTS• method. In conclusion, this plant can be considered a natural antimicrobial and antioxidant agent against foodborne pathogens, and it is a promising candidate for large-scale experiments.
Comparative chromatographic analysis of phenolic compounds of Liquidambar orientalis plant cultivated under in vitro salt stress
Authors: POLAT Muhammed Mustafa , KAYA Ergun , KIVRAK İbrahim
Published: November 2023

In this study, the effects of boron salt stress on in vitro cultivated Liquidambar orientalis (L. orientalis), a relict-endemic plant species, and the resulting changes in its phenolic appearance were investigated. Salt stress can cause negative impact on plant growth and production, especially in species with low salinity and drought tolerance, affecting metabolite expression and somaclonal execution. To evaluate the effects of different boron salts on meristem regeneration and progression, clonal in vitro L. orientalis meristems were exposed to boric acid, sodium perborate, sodium metaborate, and disodium octaborate salts. When compared with the control group examples where salt application was not performed, the highest regeneration percentage was determined to be 100% with the application of 1 mg/L disodium octaborate. In terms of the shoot formation capacity index, it was determined to be 5 mg/L. With a value of 4.94, the application of sodium perborate yielded the best result. In L. orientalis plants, the greatest change in phenolic compounds due to boron salt applications was observed in the concentration of Quercetin with the sodium perborate salt application at 1 mg/L concentration.
Total polyphenols and antioxidant activity of yellow velvetleaf (Limnocharis flava) extract
Authors: SUDİRMAN Sabri , ARİANTİ Mey , NUGROHO Gama Dian , RİDHOWATİ Sherly , PİTAYATİ Puspa Ayu , JANNA Miftahul
Published: November 2023

An increase in free radicals can cause damage to cells and tissues in the body. This is caused by a lack of antioxidant ability in the body, so it requires antioxidants outside the body. One of the plants that can be used as a source of antioxidants is the yellow velvetleaf (Limnocharis flava), which has a class of polyphenolic compounds. The crude extract of this plant still has other components that are not included in the polyphenol compound. This study aimed to measure the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents as well as the antioxidant activity of the yellow velvetleaf plant (L. flava) before and after purification. The purification process is carried out using the solid-phase extraction method. The antioxidant activity was determined by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The total polyphenol and flavonoid contents increase after the purification process. Therefore, the antioxidant activity of purified extract is also increased when compared to crude extract. These results show that the purification process successfully increased the levels of polyphenol compounds from the yellow velvetleaf plant and its antioxidant activity. Thus, the purified extract can be used as an alternative source of natural antioxidants and can be developed as a food supplement ingredient.
YURT DIŞINDA İKAMET EDEN TÜRK VATANDAŞLARININ TÜRKİYE’DE SAĞLIK HİZMETLERİNDEN YARARLANMASI
Authors: EZER Burcu
Published: November 2023

Türk hukukunda ilk kez 5510 sayılı Sosyal Sigortalar ve Genel Sağlık Sigortası Kanunu ile kabul edilen genel sağlık sigortası, diğer sosyal sigortaların aksine çalışma temelli değil ikamet temelli oluşturulmuştur. Böylelikle Türkiye’de ikamet eden ve (zorunlu veya isteğe bağlı olarak) sosyal sigorta kapsamında bulunmayan diğer kişilerin de genel sağlık sigortası kapsamına alınması amaçlanmıştır. Türk vatandaşı olsun ya da olmasın Türkiye’de ikamet etmeyen kişiler kural olarak genel sağlık sigortasının kapsamı dışındadır. Ancak bu kurala zaman içinde çeşitli istisnalar getirilmiş ve genel sağlık sigortasının kapsamı Türkiye’de ikamet etmeyen kişiler yönünden genişletilmiştir. Bu çalışmada, Türkiye’de ikamet etme koşuluna getirilen istisnalara yer verilecek ve devamında Türkiye dışında bir ülkede ikamet etmekte olan Türk vatandaşlarının, Türkiye’de bulundukları süre zarfında genel sağlık sigortası hükümlerine göre sağlık hizmetlerinden yararlanma durumları inceleme konusu yapılacaktır. Bu doğrultuda inceleme, Türk vatandaşlarının ikamet ettikleri ülke ile Türkiye arasında sağlık hizmetlerini kapsama alan bir sosyal güvenlik sözleşmesi bulunup bulunmadığına göre ayrı ayrı ele alınacaktır.
Indirect taxation on VAT consumption. A possible study of alternative tax rate models in Portugal
Authors: de Moraes e Soares Ricardo , Pinheiro Pedro , Heliodoro Paula
Published: November 2023

The adoption of a single VAT rate system in the EU is a complex and controversial issue, since the current model includes several differentiated rates and is intended to reflect sectoral needs and ensure greater fairness in the taxation of consumption. This study aims to analyse which of the general consumption tax models (differentiated rates or a single rate) is more efficient in terms of revenue collection. The study uses official statistics available on the official website of the Tax and Customs Authority for the period 1996–2022. VAT revenue is measured by applying the formula of the EU’s common VAT model with the necessary adaptations to the flat rate model. Quantitative methods are applied to verify which of the tax models is more efficient in terms of collection. For this purpose, two scenarios were defined (17% and 21%). The results suggest that the estimated revenues for the proposed flat rate models are higher than the amounts actually collected through the differentiated rates. They also suggest that the 21% flat rate is preferable to the 17% rate, although the latter has the capacity to maintain current revenue levels and increase the amount collected compared to the current system. The conclusions suggest that the single VAT rate model is technically more preferable and notably more efficient than the current common consumption tax model adopted by the European Union. The study concludes that the refusal to adopt the single-rate model is not due to technical reasons but to political ones.
The role of internal auditors as a tool to boost competitiveness of Greek firms
Authors: Galanis Stergios , Pazarskis Michail , Konstantinidis Christos , Kourtesi Sofia
Published: November 2023

The role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the modern economy is crucial, and they have emerged as the most alluring and inventive system. To investigate and assess SMEs’ operations, internal auditing was formed as an independent assessment. Internal auditors’ planning and implementation of a quality program of internal audits can result in several advantages to SMEs. The current study investigates how internal auditors might help SMEs become more competitive. To fulfill the study’s requirements, 200 employees of Greek SMEs who were relevant to the internal audit function in their business environment were invited to answer a questionnaire. Internal auditors are viewed positively by most of the (100) employees who responded. Ranging from 34% to 53% in part B of the questionnaire (the role of internal auditors), they strongly agree with the positive role of internal auditors in Greek SMEs. Regarding the evaluation of internal auditors, most respondents gave a relatively negative opinion. From 31% to 34% respondents in part C of the questionnaire (evaluation of internal auditors) agree a little with the positive evaluation of internal auditors in Greek SMEs. Furthermore, the results showed that internal auditors must be professionals, comprehend the audited activities in-depth, offer ways to remedy problematic activities, and voice their thoughts objectively to succeed in the competitiveness of Greek SMEs.
Conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre tuberculosis en trabajadores de la salud en una institución de salud de Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Muñoz-Castaño Yeimy Lorena , Muñoz-Sánchez Alba Idaly , Puerto Guerrero Ana Helana , Murcia-Aranguenen Martha Isabel
Published: November 2023

Introducción: a pesar de los avances científicos la tuberculosis se mantiene en el escenario epidemiológico mundial y nacional. Objetivo: describir los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre tuberculosis en trabajadores de la salud antes y después de una intervención educativa en una institución de salud en Bogotá. Métodos: se desarrolló un estudio cuasiexperimental con grupo control y grupo experimental con medición antes y después de una intervención educativa entre octubre del 2021 y marzo del 2022. Se utilizó un instrumento previamente validado para medir los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de la tuberculosis. Resultados: este estudio demostró post intervención, conocimientos adecuados en temáticas como: transmisión de la enfermedad, tratamiento y medidas de aislamiento. A nivel de las actitudes, se evidenció una falsa percepción de seguridad frente a la enfermedad por parte del trabajador de la salud. Finalmente, algunas prácticas posteriores a la intervención mejoraron en términos de la búsqueda de sintomáticos respiratorios, separación de pacientes con tos y uso de elementos de protección personal. Conclusiones: las intervenciones educativas en trabajadores de la salud son fundamentales para mejorar los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas sobre tuberculosis, en beneficio de los trabajadores y los pacientes, contribuyendo a disminuir la transmisión de la enfermedad.
Educación en salud durante el embarazo desde la perspectiva de las gestantes
Authors: Cáceres-Manrique Flor de María , López-Barbosa Nahyr , Ruiz-Rodríguez Myriam , Nieves-Cuervo Giselly Mayerly , Lizarazo-Castellanos Angie Daniela
Published: November 2023

Introducción: se requiere conocer las necesidades de educación para las gestantes en escenarios de post-pandemia por Covid-19. Objetivo: conocer las necesidades de educación para gestantes/maternas y los medios preferidos para recibirla. Método: estudio descriptivo mediante encuestas virtuales con muestreo intencional y convocatoria en bola de nieve, a gestantes/maternas cuyos partos ocurrieron en pandemia. Personal de atención prenatal y parto también fue entrevistado. Se averiguaron necesidades de educación, contenidos y formas preferidas para recibirla. Resultados: participaron 144 mujeres, 34 (23,6%) gestantes, 110 (76,4%) maternas, con edades entre 17-43 años. Manifestaron necesitar educación sobre cuidados del preparto/parto: 113 (78,5%), lactancia materna: 109 (75,7%), cuidados del bebé: 108 (75%), maternidad y Covid-19: 90 (62,5%), prevención de trasmisión al bebé: 85 (59%) y salud mental: 79 (54,9%). Preferirían videos 114(79,2%), por WhatsApp: 106 (73,6%) y correo electrónico: 82 (56,9%). Conclusiones: las maternas necesitan educación sobre cuidados de la gestación, pero también sobre prevención del Covid-19. Sugieren videos a través de redes sociales.
Determinación social de la salud en el acceso a vacunación: un estudio cualitativo en migrantes colombianos
Authors: Sotelo-Daza Jorge , Herrera-Zuleta Ivett Adriana
Published: November 2023

Introducción: la vacunación representa una estrategia costo-efectiva en salud pública, sin embargo, el acceso en población migrante continúa siendo un problema persistente y limitadamente comprendido desde su naturaleza social. Objetivo: comprender desde la determinación social de la salud (DSS) las dinámicas del acceso a vacunación en niños migrantes menores de cinco años en Popayán Colombia. Método: estudio cualitativo, etnográfico. Se utilizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas, grupos focales y diarios de campo en 19 cuidadores de niños susceptibles de vacunación. Se asumió el enfoque de la DSS para comprender el fenómeno como un proceso social a partir de dominios singular, particular y general. Resultados: existen condiciones precarias donde habitan los niños, que limitan el acceso a vacunación. Los modos de vida están determinados por dinámicas socioculturales, políticas, económicas y del sistema sanitario. Desde los estilos de vida, la vacunación se considera una actividad protectora para la salud. La buena atención, gratuidad, cercanía a hospitales, buena información, afiliación al sistema sanitario y la ausencia de filas, favorecen la vacunación. Conclusiones: el acceso a la vacunación en niños en condición migratoria está determinado por aspectos socioculturales, políticos y económicos. El enfoque de DSS amplía la comprensión de los fenómenos en salud pública desde su realidad.
Relationship of pandemic grief with anxiety, depression, and fear of COVID-19 in Colombian adults
Authors: Lapeira-Panneflex Patricia de Jesús , Caballero-Domínguez Carmen Cecilia , Guerra-Sánchez Carmen Amarilis
Published: November 2023

Coronavirus deaths may have particular significance in the context of the pandemic. Objective: To explore the relationship between pandemic grief, generalized anxiety, risk of depression, and fear of COVID-19 in Colombians. Materials and method: Cross-sectional study, people with a history of loss of a loved one were invited to participate, completed the EDP, PHQ-9, GAD-7 and Fear Covid-5. Results: 123 people aged between 18 and 71 years reported death of a close relative, 81.30% were women, 16.26% rated pandemic grief, 42.28% risk of depression, 21.95% generalized anxiety and 39.02% high fear of COVID-19. Pandemic grief was associated with risk of depression (r=0.51; p<0.01), generalized anxiety (r=0.43; p<0.01), while it was independent for COVID-5 fear (r=0.29; p>0.01). Conclusion: Pandemic grief was associated with generalized anxiety and depression. Future longitudinal studies may improve understanding of the relationship between these variables.
Los retos de la traducción y adaptación cultural de instrumentos
Authors: Reyes-Rojas Mónica
Published: November 2023

La adaptación cultural de los instrumentos de medición plantea enormes retos para los investigadores. Recientemente, Gómez et al1 publicaron el artículo: Traducción y adaptación cultural de un cuestionario para medir conocimientos de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica, y dan apertura a una interesante discusión acerca de este tema.
Respuesta a la Carta al Editor: los retos de la traducción y adaptación cultural de instrumentos
Authors: Gómez Vilma , Crispín-Cruz Dayan , Henríquez-Gómez Jack
Published: November 2023

Este escrito es la respuesta a la Carta al Editor enviada por Mónica Reyes-Rojas, en la cual se plantea el debate con respecto al concepto de español colombiano y en la que se sugiere que para la adaptación cultural de instrumentos se debe contar con la participación de expertos con miembros representativos de diferentes partes del país.
Condiciones nutricionales de la primera infancia en Santa Marta, Colombia
Authors: Orozco-Morales Larissa Paola , Brito-Jiménez Ivone , Ramos-De La Cruz Ediltrudis
Published: November 2023

Introducción: es vital interesarse por los determinantes sociales de la primera infancia y sus diferentes patologías porque este período es el más importante para el crecimiento y desarrollo físico-cognitivo. Objetivo: describir el estado nutricional de los niños menores de seis años de Santa Marta. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo con una muestra de participantes de un barrio de Santa Marta, Colombia. Resultados: se evaluaron 112 niños y niñas, el 54% eran niños y el 35% presentó alteraciones nutricionales (riesgo de desnutrición, desnutrición, sobrepeso y obesidad). Conclusiones: aproximadamente un tercio de la niñez en edad preescolar de un barrio de Santa Marta, Colombia, presentan alteraciones nutricionales. Es necesario estudiar los factores asociados a estas alteraciones.
Seroprotection of Measles, Rubella, Pertussis and its Relation with Occurrence
of COVID-19 among a Cohort of University Female Students
Authors: Jhancy Malay , Srinivasamurthy Suresh Kumar
Published: November 2023

Background::

Antibody titres against several infections are hypothesized to be protective against COVID-19 due to cross-immunity. The study intends to assess
the relationship between historical data on measles, rubella, pertussis antibody titres and the occurrence of self-reported COVID-19.

Methods::

The study was conducted as an online cross-sectional survey which was compared with historical data of antibody titers. The university female
students who had participated in our previous study evaluating seroprevalence of measles, rubella and pertussis antibody titres were contacted
online for the survey. The online questionnaire was sent to collect details on COVID-19 occurrence among all the participants. The measles,
rubella and pertussis titers of all participants were correlated with the present questionnaire data. All volunteers participated in the survey after
online informed consent.

Results::

Among the 52 responders to the questionnaire, 18 participants had been reported to be suffering from COVID-related symptoms and 12 were
reported to have confirmed RT-PCR positive for COVID-19. The unpaired “t” test comparing antibody titres of measles, rubella and pertussis
between COVID-19 RT PCR positive and RT PCR negative subjects did not show statistical significance.

Conclusion::

There was no statistical difference between antibody titers of measles, rubella and pertussis among self-reported COVID-19 RT PCR positive and
RT PCR negative university female students.
Computational Approaches to Designing Antiviral Drugs against COVID-19: A
Comprehensive Review
Authors: Singh Mohan P. , Singh Nidhi , Mishra Divya , Ehsan Saba , Chaturvedi Vivek K. , Chaudhary Anupriya , Singh Veer , Vamanu Emanuel
Published: November 2023

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 necessitates innovative
strategies for the rapid development of effective treatments. Computational methodologies, such as molecular
modelling, molecular dynamics simulations, and artificial intelligence, have emerged as indispensable tools in
the drug discovery process. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of these computational
approaches and their application in the design of antiviral agents for COVID-19. Starting with an examination
of ligand-based and structure-based drug discovery, the review has delved into the intricate ways through
which molecular modelling can accelerate the identification of potential therapies. Additionally, the investigation
extends to phytochemicals sourced from nature, which have shown promise as potential antiviral agents.
Noteworthy compounds, including gallic acid, naringin, hesperidin, Tinospora cordifolia, curcumin, nimbin,
azadironic acid, nimbionone, nimbionol, and nimocinol, have exhibited high affinity for COVID-19 Mpro and
favourable binding energy profiles compared to current drugs. Although these compounds hold potential, their
further validation through in vitro and in vivo experimentation is imperative. Throughout this exploration, the
review has emphasized the pivotal role of computational biologists, bioinformaticians, and biotechnologists in
driving rapid advancements in clinical research and therapeutic development. By combining state-of-the-art
computational techniques with insights from structural and molecular biology, the search for potent antiviral
agents has been accelerated. The collaboration between these disciplines holds immense promise in addressing
the transmissibility and virulence of SARS-CoV-2.
Cytokines as Potential Therapeutic Targets and their Role in the Diagnosis and
Prediction of Cancers
Authors: Uchendu Ikenna , Zhilenkova Angelina , Pirogova Yuliya , Basova Maria , Bagmet Leonid , Kohanovskaia Iana , Ngaha Yvan , Ikebunwa Obinna , Sekacheva Marina
Published: November 2023

The death rate from cancer is declining as a result of earlier identification and more advanced treatments.
Nevertheless, a number of unfavourable adverse effects, including prolonged, long-lasting inflammation
and reduced immune function, usually coexist with anti-cancer therapies and lead to a general decline in
quality of life. Improvements in standardized comprehensive therapy and early identification of a variety of aggressive
tumors remain the main objectives of cancer research. Tumor markers in those with cancer are tumor-
associated proteins that are clinically significant. Even while several tumor markers are routinely used,
they don't always provide reliable diagnostic information. Serum cytokines are promising markers of tumor
stage, prognosis, and responsiveness to therapy. In fact, several cytokines are currently proposed as potential
biomarkers in a variety of cancers. It has actually been proposed that the study of circulatory cytokines together
with biomarkers that are particular to cancer can enhance and accelerate cancer diagnosis and prediction,
particularly via blood samples that require minimal to the absence of invasion. The purpose of this review
was to critically examine relevant primary research literature in order to elucidate the role and importance
of a few identified serum cytokines as prospective therapeutic targets in oncological diseases.
Efficacy and Safety of Atezolizumab Monotherapy or Combined Therapy with
Chemotherapy in Patients with Metastatic Triple-negative Breast Cancer: A
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Alimohammadi Mina , Faramarzi Fatemeh , Mafi Alireza , Mousavi Tahoora , Rahimi Ali , Mirzaei Hamed , Asemi Zatollah
Published: November 2023

Introduction::

Several successful attempts have been recorded with PD-L1 blockade via atezolizumab
monotherapy or combination therapy with chemotherapy in patients with metastatic triple-negative
breast cancer (mTNBC). Due to the lack of a large-scale study, we present a meta-analysis aimed at evaluating
the safety and efficacy of this promising strategy in patients with mTNBC.

Methods::

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases to identify eligible
RCTs. Twelve studies, including 2479 mTBNC patients treated with atezolizumab monotherapy or in combination
with chemotherapy, were included up to January 2022. The PRISMA checklist protocol and the I2 statistic
were applied for quality assessment and heterogeneity tests of the selected trials, respectively. Fixed and
random-effects models were estimated based on the heterogeneity tests, and statistical analysis was performed
using CMA.

Results::

Our pooled findings demonstrated that the median overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival
(PFS) were 16.526 and 5.814 months in mTNBC patients, respectively. Furthermore, when comparing efficacy
indicators between PD-L1-positive and PD-L1-negative groups, mTNBC patients with PD-L1 had better
OS, PFS, and ORR than PD-L1-negative patients. Also, the immune-related adverse event incident for alopecia
was higher (51.9%) than other complications across atezolizumab therapy.

Conclusion::

Moreover, the pooled analysis indicated that the overall rate of lung metastasis following atezolizumab
therapy was 42.8%, which was higher than the rates of metastasis in bone (26.9%), brain (5.4%),
and lymph node (6.5%). Atezolizumab showed a manageable safety profile and had promising and durable
anti-tumor efficacy in TMBC patients. Higher PD-L1 expression may be closely correlated with better clinical
efficacy.
Insight into RNA-based Therapies for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Keyvani Vahideh , Mahmoudian Reihaneh Alsadat , Mollazadeh Samaneh , Kheradmand Nahid , Ghorbani Elnaz , Khazaei Majid , Saeed Al-Hayawi Ibrahim , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi , Ferns Gordon A. , Avan Amir , Anvari Kazem
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common malignancies in women and is associated with
poor outcomes. The treatment for OC is often associated with resistance to therapies and hence this has stimulated
the search for alternative therapeutic approaches, including RNA-based therapeutics. However, this approach
has some challenges that include RNA degradation. To solve this critical issue, some novel delivery
systems have been proposed. In current years, there has been growing interest in the improvement of RNAbased
therapeutics as a promising approach to target ovarian cancer and improve patient outcomes. This paper
provides a practical insight into the use of RNA-based therapeutics in ovarian cancers, highlighting their potential
benefits, challenges, and current research progress. RNA-based therapeutics offer a novel and targeted approach
to treat ovarian cancer by exploiting the unique characteristics of RNA molecules. By targeting key
oncogenes or genes responsible for drug resistance, siRNAs can effectively inhibit tumor growth and sensitize
cancer cells to conventional therapies. Furthermore, messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have emerged as a revolutionary
tool in cancer immunotherapy. MRNA vaccines can be designed to encode tumor-specific antigens,
stimulating the immune system to distinguish and eliminate ovarian cancer cells. A nano-based delivery platform
improves the release of loaded RNAs to the target location and reduces the off-target effects. Additionally,
off-target effects and immune responses triggered by RNA molecules necessitate careful design and optimization
of these therapeutics. Several preclinical and clinical researches have shown promising results in the
field of RNA-based therapeutics for ovarian cancer. In a preclinical study, siRNA-mediated silencing of the poly
(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) gene, involved in DNA repair, sensitized ovarian cancer cells to
PARP inhibitors, leading to enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In clinical trials, mRNA-based vaccines targeting
tumor-associated antigens have demonstrated safety and efficacy in stimulating immune responses in ovarian
cancer patients. In aggregate, RNA-based therapeutics represent a promising avenue for the therapy of ovarian
cancers. The ability to specifically target oncogenes or stimulate immune responses against tumor cells holds
great potential for improving patient outcomes. However, further research is needed to address challenges related
to delivery, permanence, and off-target effects. Clinical trials assessing the care and effectiveness of RNAbased
therapeutics in larger patient cohorts are warranted. With continued advancements in the field, RNAbased
therapeutics have the potential to develop the management of ovarian cancer and provide new hope for
patients.
A Convenient Synthesis of Bis-(dihydro)caffeoylspermidines
Authors: He Lili , Sun Jian , Zhou Pengjuan , Ji Jingwen , Zhai Lijuan , Tang Dong , Ji Jinbo , Yang Haikang , Iqbal Zafar , Yang Zhixiang
Published: November 2023

Caffeoyl spermidines are valuable alkaloids naturally existing in many plant species. These
alkaloids are characterized as pharmacologically important ingredients of many plant extracts used in
traditional medicines. Bis-caffeoylspermidine and bis-dihydrocaffeoylspermidine exhibit antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibition properties that make them valuable natural sources of safer
therapeutic agents. However, the limited availability of these compounds in nature derives the attention
of synthetic chemists. Therefore, we synthesized bis-caffeoylspermidine and bisdihydrocaffeoylspermidine
using cheaper and commercially available starting materials in 97% and
86% overall yields, respectively. The synthetic scheme can be upgraded to the commercial-scale synthesis
of these compounds
CAD System Design for Pituitary Tumor Classification based on Transfer
Learning Technique
Authors: Gargya Sagrika , Jain Shruti
Published: November 2023

Background::

A brain tumor is an asymmetrical expansion by cells inevitably emulating amid them. Image processing is a vibrant research area where the
handing out of the image in the medical field is an exceedingly tricky field. In this paper, an expert algorithm is suggested for the detection of
pituitary brain tumors from MR images.

Methods::

The preprocessing techniques (smoothing, edge detection, filtering) and segmentation techniques (watershed) are applied to the online data set. The
transfer learning technique is used as a classifier whose performance is measured in terms of classification accuracy. Resnet 50, Inception
V3VGG16, and VGG19 models are used as classification algorithms. The proposed model is validated using different machine learning techniques
considering hybrid features.

Results::

96% accuracy was obtained employing the Inception V3 model & 95% accuracy was attained using hybrid GLDS and GLCM features employing
Support Vector Machine algorithm while 93% was attained using Probabilistic Neural Network and k Nearest Neighbor techniques.

Conclusion::

Computer-aided systems gave much faster and more accurate results than image processing techniques.1.0% accuracy improvement was observed
while using Inception V3 over GLDS + GLCM + SVM and 2.1% accuracy improvement using GLDS + GLCM + SVM over GLDS + GLCM +
kNN.
Multidisciplinary Management of Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in Paediatric Patients:
A Case Report
Authors: Chilaca-Rosas Maria-Fatima , Salazar-Calderon David-Rafael , Contreras-Aguilar Manuel-Tadeo , Lezama Melissa-Garcia , Valadez Ernesto-Roldan
Published: November 2023

Background::

The aneurysmal bone cyst is a benign neoplasm that tends to form the appearance of a mass with a bony septum that forms cavities with blood
inside. It is estimated to represent 1% of bone tumours and has an incidence of 0.14 per 100,000 people worldwide. Current publications have not
shown a multidisciplinary approach that can benefit patients, mainly in the functionality and quality of the management approach.

Objective::

Describe the multidisciplinary approach and the benefits of quality of life and functionality in this diagnosis.

Case presentation:

A paediatric patient was diagnosed with an aneurysmal bone cyst located in the cervical spine, which initially manifested with muscle pain,
enlargement of the posterior cervical region, and difficulty in performing arcs of movement. He was treated with multidisciplinary management
with surgery, embolisation, radiation, and bisphosphonate support.

Conclusion::

The purpose of approaching multidisciplinary management helped to improve the accompanying symptoms that prevented our patient from having
an active and quality life. However, more successful cases have not been reported to establish the best therapeutic protocol.