bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Central precocious puberty should be taken seriously in children with Leydig cell tumors of the testis after surgical treatment: a tertiary center experience
Authors: Liu Pei , Li Zong-Han , Song Hong-Cheng , Gong Chun-Xiu , Zhang Wei-Ping 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Central precocious puberty secondary to Leydig cell tumors is rare in children. We retrospectively analyzed the mid- to long-term follow-up data of patients with Leydig cell tumors. The clinical data of 12 consecutive patients who were treated at Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University (Beijing, China), between January 2016 and October 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical evaluations, including physical examination, hormone examination, serum tumor marker analysis, abdominal and scrotal ultrasound, chest X-ray, and bone age measurement, were conducted before surgery and at follow-up time points. Surgical approaches were selected according to the individual conditions. Patients with an abnormal hormonal status and suspected of having central precocious puberty were referred to endocrinologists to confirm the diagnosis. Subsequently, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy was proposed. The mean patient age was 81.3 (range: 40–140) months at the time of the operation. Ten patients had peripheral precocious puberty at admission. All patients had elevated preoperative testosterone levels, whereas tumor marker levels were normal. Testis-sparing surgery was performed in eleven patients, and radical orchiectomy was performed in one patient. The follow-up duration (mean ± standard deviation) was 36.2 ± 25.3 months. Five patients had central precocious puberty, with a mean duration of 3.4 (range: 1–6) months postoperatively. Three patients were receiving gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy, and good suppression of puberty was observed. No risk factors were found for secondary central precocious puberty. There was a high prevalence of central precocious puberty secondary to Leydig cell tumors in our study. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog therapy has satisfactory treatment effects. Larger sample sizes and long-term follow-up are needed in future studies.
The SPARC-related modular calcium binding 1 (Smoc1) regulated by androgen is required for mouse gubernaculum development and testicular descent
Authors: Zhao Zhi-Yi , Siow Yong , Liu Ling-Yun , Li Xian , Wang Hong-Liang , Lei Zhen-Min 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Testicular descent occurs in two consecutive stages: the transabdominal stage and the inguinoscrotal stage. Androgens play a crucial role in the second stage by influencing the development of the gubernaculum, a structure that pulls the testis into the scrotum. However, the mechanisms of androgen actions underlying many of the processes associated with gubernaculum development have not been fully elucidated. To identify the androgen-regulated genes, we conducted large-scale gene expression analyses on the gubernaculum harvested from luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor knockout (Lhcgr KO) mice, an animal model of inguinoscrotal testis maldescent resulting from androgen deficiency. We found that the expression of secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC)-related modular calcium binding 1 (Smoc1) was the most severely suppressed at both the transcript and protein levels, while its expression was the most dramatically induced by testosterone administration in the gubernacula of Lhcgr KO mice. The upregulation of Smoc1 expression by testosterone was curtailed by the addition of an androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide. In addition, in vitro studies demonstrated that SMOC1 modestly but significantly promoted the proliferation of gubernacular cells. In the cultures of myogenic differentiation medium, both testosterone and SMOC1 enhanced the expression of myogenic regulatory factors such as paired box 7 (Pax7) and myogenic factor 5 (Myf5). After short-interfering RNA-mediated knocking down of Smoc1, the expression of Pax7 and Myf5 diminished, and testosterone alone did not recover, but additional SMOC1 did. These observations indicate that SMOC1 is pivotal in mediating androgen action to regulate gubernaculum development during inguinoscrotal testicular descent.
Comparative quality analysis of marketed and traditionally prepared Ghrita and Ayurveda formulation Jeevanthyadi ghrita
Authors: Patil Santosh F. , Shetty Suhaskumar , Tejaswi S Poornachandra 
Published: August 2024

Abstract:INTRODUCTION:Ghee is an integral part of food and medicine in the Indian system of medicine. Recent and future market indicates the increasing demand for ghee. However, it comes with shadow of adulteration and substandard quality. This can ramify to Ayurveda domain and bring down the credibility of the health system.OBJECTIVE:Hence, we compared the quality of marketed and traditionally prepared ghee and also compared the preparedJeevanthyadi ghrita(JG) with them.MATERIALS AND METHODS:Traditionally prepared ghee was procured from Madikeri, a small town in South Karnataka, India of a single breed cow Hallikar, reared in same farm. Highly marketed ghee sample was bought. Later, the traditionally prepared ghee was processed as JG as per Ayurveda classical reference. All three samples were subjected to FSSAI–AGMARK parameters.RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:All the samples were well within the standard range prescribed by FSSAI. However, there were nonsignificant differences in fatty acids polyunsaturated fatty acid and monounsaturated fatty acids and docosahexaenoic acid in all three samples. These variations could be due to seasonal, foliage provide to cow and method of preparation. Fortification of traditionally preparedghritawith Ayurveda herbs as JG showed no deviations of standard values even after successive heating.CONCLUSION:It was noteworthy that the market sample showed no adulteration. However, the marketed ghee is prepared from direct cream method and from pooled milk of different species, which raises concerns for processing Ayurvedaghritaif procured from the market.
Preparedness and perspectives on the competency-based medical education among faculties of a government medical college in Assam
Authors: Deka Chandana , Borah Pollov 
Published: August 2024

Abstract:

INTRODUCTION:
Medical education in a global context as well as in India has evolved over a period of time. Adaption of competency-based medical education (CBME) through adequate faculty training and stakeholder participation can bring about vast changes in the ways of teaching and learning medical science. To gain more insight into the preparedness and perspectives of the faculties regarding the newly introduced CBME in a government medical college which is also an NMC Regional Centre, this study has been conducted.

METHODOLOGY:
Faculties of Jorhat Medical College, Assam who gave consent to participate were taken up for the study. A questionnaire was prepared and circulated among the eligible faculties. Faculties who were unable to submit even after three visits were excluded from the study. The total duration of data collection was 2 months. A total of 87 responses had been documented.

RESULTS:
32.43% of the interviewed faculties had UG teaching experience of < 5 years, 67.56% more than 5 years, and 17.24% more than 20 years. 71.26% of the faculties have been trained in revised basic course workshops and 62.06% of the curriculum implementation support program. 62.06% of faculty members were able to both understand the concept and implement the CBME. Most of the faculties (65.51%) are of the opinion that having a separate logbook although highly feasible, it will be lowly acceptable. 80.45% of the faculties are of the opinion that early clinical exposure in Phase I will make the basic science curriculum more relevant. 66.67% of faculty views that around 1–3 years will be required for proper implementation of CBME.

CONCLUSIONS:
The majority of the faculty members in the study were prepared to take on the challenge of execution of CBME. They also had a positive perception of the change of the curriculum and the facelift given to it.
Effect of melatonin and β-endorphin interaction in splenocyte proliferation
Authors: Vishwas Dipanshu Kumar 
Published: August 2024

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
Opioids in the circulation interact with lymphocytes, suggesting a possible link between the neuroendocrine system and the immune system.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
We examined the in vitro pattern of immunomodulatory effects (T-cell proliferation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production) by β-endorphin and melatonin, along with or without their respective receptor antagonists (naloxone and luzindole), on the splenocytes of boar golden hamsters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
We performed the in vitro proliferation assay in terms of blastogenic response or percent stimulation ratio of the splenocyte culture. Cytokine determination for interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-2, and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), immunocytochemical localization, and Western blot analysis of melatonin receptor (MT1R) and opioid receptor (μOR) were also analyzed from splenocyte culture.

RESULTS:
Results suggested that splenocyte populations were targeted for the opioids that enhanced T-cell proliferation via the nonopiate receptor signaling pathway. Further, in vitro melatonin supplementation in splenocytes might be acting as an immunostimulator by increasing the level of cytokines (IL-6, IL-2, and IFN-γ) and its own melatonin MT1R membrane protein synthesis and downregulating μ-opioid receptor (μOR) expression, suggesting melatonin-induced-nociceptive or anti-stress effects.

CONCLUSION:
Our results concluded that the mechanism of the immunoproliferative response of splenocytes by the treatment of β-endorphin and melatonin significantly induced the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines through the enhanced synthesis of melatonin MT1R and reduced opioid µΟR proteins. Melatonin also induced endorphin-like opioid peptide synthesis, which could mediate the fine-tuning of splenocyte proliferative responses along with analgesic effects. Thus, melatonin and β-endorphin together are fine-tuning the splenocyte proliferative responses.
Intensified mission indradhanush: Maternal awareness and service utilization in Krishna district, India
Authors: Pavani Tanneru Sai , Chaudhuri Sirshendu , Agiwal Varun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
The most effective step for child survival is vaccination. The attitude and behavior of parents toward immunizing their children are closely correlated with their awareness of the risks and advantages of vaccination. Since parents are the ones who make decisions, raising their level of understanding is essential. Hence, the goal is to determine how well mothers are aware of the Intensified Mission Indradhanush (IMI) and to measure full immunization coverage among children under 2 years of age.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, for mothers whose children were under 2 years aged during the period September 2022–October 2022. Sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding IMI was collected through quantitative and semi-structured questionnaires answered by the mothers, and the immunization status of children was filled from Mother and Child Protection card. The KAP cutoff point was defined based on Bloom’s criteria.

RESULTS:
This study concluded that 154 (60.39%) children were fully covered from vaccination and 67 (26.67%) mothers were aware of IMI services. Mothers whose children were fully vaccinated had 59.22% good knowledge, 41.57% positive attitude, and 79.22% proper practice regarding immunization. Lack of awareness to mothers and child illnesses was found to be a major reason for partial vaccination.

CONCLUSION:
Efforts are required to strengthen information, education, and communication activities regarding the IMI program as relatively few participants had heard about it. The majority of them were aware of immunization services, although there was average immunization coverage. The findings of this study support the suggestions for routine evaluation and the requirement for raising public knowledge of both ongoing and new programs.
Congenital Myopathy Due to RyR1 Gene Mutation in a Newborn Masquerading as a Consequence of Hypoxic-ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Patial Yamini , Anand Rohit 
Published: August 2024

Background:
Congenital myopathies may be a cause of prolonged and persistent hypotonia and weakness in a newborn, which may be overlooked as a neurological consequence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. We report such a neonate which turned out to be a case of central core myopathy.

Clinical Description:
A female neonate born at 38 weeks of gestation suffered birth asphyxia and was referred at 25 days of life due to a persistent need for respiratory support. A review of history revealed that the mother had decreased fetal movements during the third trimester and polyhydramnios. On examination, the baby had a frog-like posture with a paucity of proximal movements with preserved distal movements. Considering the possibility of a congenital myopathy, investigations were carried out. The whole-exome sequencing revealed heterozygous nonsense variation in exon 20 of the RyR1 gene, thus diagnosing the infant as a case of congenital core myopathy.

Management and Outcome:
The baby was managed with supportive care including ventilatory and nutritional support. Baby remained ventilator dependent, but ultimately succumbed to complications by 2 months of age.

Conclusions:
A high index of suspicion is required in a newborn with birth asphyxia having unusually persistent hypotonia, thorough clinical examination and appropriate genetic testing can help in identifying an underlying congenital myopathy.
Prevalence of dry eye disease in type 2 diabetic and non-diabetics: A cross-sectional hospital-based study
Authors: Bashorun Sedoten Dagbeyon , Balogun Bolanle Grace , Ibidapo Olajumoke , Bashorun Adedapo Olufemi 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Aims and Objectives:
Dry eye disease (DED) is a common condition that affects the quality of life of may individuals. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of DED and identify potential risk factors in adult patients seeking care at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital., Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
This was a cross-sectional, hospital-based study that aimed to determine the prevalence of DED in type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic patients. A total of 200 adult participants—100 with type 2 diabetes and 100 non-diabetic patients, were recruited into the study. A symptom screening standard patient evaluation for dryness questionnaire was administered and a fluorescein break-up time test was done to diagnose DED.

Results:
The mean age was 61.4 years (±11.7 SD) and most were females (146, 72.86%). Using the standard patient evaluation for dryness questionnaire, 87.31% of the study participants had symptom(s) of DED. The proportion of DED in diabetics was 63.95% while in the non-diabetics was 68.37%, and this was significantly higher in the non-diabetic group (proportion difference of 16.47%, P = 0.006).
The prevalence of DED as measured by the fluorescein break-up time was 55.81% (95% CI: 48.39–63.24). There was no significant difference in prevalence between diabetic and non-diabetic participants. Logistic regression analysis showed that increased duration of diabetes and age were significant predictors of DED in diabetic and non-diabetic groups, respectively.

Conclusion:
The prevalence of DED was high in our study population with increasing duration of diabetes in diabetics and older age in non-diabetics significantly associated with DED.
Vaginal endometrial stroma sarcoma: A case report of a rare disease
Authors: Nongo Benjamin Howe , Isah Dennis Anthony , Bawa Ahmed Abimiku , Adelowo Abdul Oluwasesan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractVaginal endometrial stromal sarcoma (VESS) arising in the vagina is an extremely rare extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma, Stroma Sarcoma. To the best of our knowledge, there have been only a few reported cases in the literature. Therefore, we herein report a case of VESS originating in the vagina. A 27-year-old woman complained of heavy and intermittent vaginal bleeding and abdominal swelling all of six months duration. A mass that was firm to hard in consistency was found in the middle and upper segments of the anterior, right lateral, and posterior fornices and wall of the vagina. An excisional biopsy was taken and the immunohistochemistry result revealed VESS. A cystoscopy was done which revealed polypoid metastatic nodules in the bladder (this put the stage of the disease at IV). She also had laparotomy following features of mechanical obstruction from previous pelvic and intraperitoneal adhesions which were formed from previous laparotomy.
Fibroepithelial polyp of the vagina in pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Nongo Benjamin Howe , Isah Dennis Anthony , Abdul Oluwasesan Adelowo 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Fibroepithelial polyps of the Vagina (FEPV) are mucosal polypoid lesions with a connective tissue core covered by a benign squamous epithelium. They are thought to be rare as only a few cases are reported in the literature. Fibroepithelial stromal polyps are mesenchymal neoplasms that can occur in the vagina, vulva, and even on the cervix. These fibroepithelial stromal polyps have also been reported in rare sites such as breast and labia.
Predictive value of transrectal ultrasonic Doppler and elastographic features in prostate cancer detection in Lagos University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Oladimeji Abraham T , Jeje Emmanuel A , Ojewola Rufus W , Adeyomoye Adekunle A , Oboke Ozoemena S , Ogunjimi Moses A , Tijani Kehinde H 
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
This study aimed at determining the predictive value (PV) of transrectal ultrasonic Doppler and elastographic features in prostate cancer (PCa) detection among patients in Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

Materials and Methods:
This prospective study involved patients that underwent evaluation for PCa. Participants had digital rectal examination (DRE), prostate-specific antigen (PSA) assay, and transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy using colour Doppler (CD) and elastography. All cores were sent for histopathology. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 22.0. CD and elastography PV in PCa detection and their relationships to the Gleason score (GS) were analysed (P < 0.05).

Results:
Seventy men (aged between 45 and 87 years) were enrolled. Forty-three (61.4%) patients had PCa with a mean age of 69.37 ± 8.22years. The sensitivity, specificity, positive PV (PPV), negative PV (NPV) and accuracy of CD were 8.50%, 97.44%, 64.10%, 66.42% and 66.31%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and accuracy of elastography were 84.21%, 94.59%, 88.89%, 92.11% and 91.07%, respectively.

Conclusion:
There is a significant association between decreased elasticity (elastography) and PCa detection but a weak association between increased vascularity (CD) and PCa detection. A positive correlation exists between extent of prostatic stiffness and GS.
Patterns of ocular morbidity among patients attending leprosy clinic, Siliguri, West Bengal
Authors: Lakra Rupanjli , Tirkey Louis 
Published: August 2024

Purpose:To estimate the prevalence and pattern of ocular morbidity among patients attending the leprosy clinic in Siliguri, West Bengal, and identify the risk factors associated with it, if any.Methods:It was a clinic-based observational study with a cross-sectional design conducted at Leprosy Clinic, Siliguri, West Bengal among leprosy patients for 1 year from August 2022 to July 2023. Leprosy patients who had completed multi-drug therapy and consented to the study were enrolled. Convenience sampling was performed and the sample size was 117. After a detailed ophthalmic evaluation, the socio-demographic profile of participants and their ocular morbidities were documented and analyzed. A Chi-square test was performed to identify the factors associated with leprosy complications.Pvalue < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results:Overall ocular morbidity for any eye observed was 58.1%. Major findings were cataract (35.9%), aphakia (11.1%), diminished corneal sensation (7.7%), lagophthalmos (7.7%), mild corneal opacity (5.2%), chronic iritis (3.4%), and impaired lid closure (2.6%). Ectropion was present in 2.6% bilaterally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for blindness, 11.1% of patients were blind in both eyes. Ocular complications were significantly associated with the respondent’s age, duration of disease, classification of disease, and decreased vision.Conclusions:The present study shows a significant rate of ocular complications and blindness among leprosy patients. Lid abnormalities, corneal abnormalities, and cataracts were the commonly encountered ocular morbidities among treated leprosy patients.
The Principal's Leadership in Strengthening Character Education in the Digital Literacy Era: A Study at Vocational School
Authors: Lukmantoro Dhanu , Hariyati Nunuk , Riyanto Yatim , Setyowati Sri 
Published: August 2024

Objective: 1) How is the leadership strategy of the Head in strengthening character education in the digital literacy era?; 2) How is the curriculum that contains strengthening character education in the era of digital literacy?; 3) How can the environment of strengthening character education in digital literacy be collaborated/integrated into: curriculum, learning, intra and extra coaching, culture and school environment, so that it becomes an example for school residents?; 4) How are the results and impacts of the implementation of digital literacy era character education. Method: This research is exploratory with techniques of (1) in-depth interviews, (2) participant observation, and (3) document studies. This research data validity technique uses four kinds of criteria, namely credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability criteria. Results: The integration of character education within digital literacy at 1 Buduran Vocational School presents a holistic model encompassing curriculum, classroom learning, intra- and extracurricular activities, and school culture. This approach ensures students develop technical skills alongside positive values and ethical behavior in using digital tools. The curriculum emphasizes both technical and ethical aspects of digital literacy. Interactive and collaborative classroom methods, with character values embedded in all subjects, create an environment conducive to character development. Novelty: It presents a holistic approach that incorporates character education into all aspects of school life—curriculum, classroom learning, extracurricular activities, and school culture—ensuring pervasive character development. The study highlights the pivotal role of the principal in promoting ethical digital practices, showcasing how effective leadership can reinforce character education in the digital era.