bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the prevalence of types of head and neck cancer in a tertiary cancer center at Madurai, Tamil Nadu: A cross-sectional study
Authors: SathiyaPriya S , Shavi Girish R. , Sanga Ranganath , Shankar S , Gunasekaran Lalithambigai , Rahila C , Santhakumari S 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:
The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of types of head and neck cancer in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

Objectives:
The objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence of types of head and neck cancer in Madurai, Tamil Nadu using a questionnaire.

Materials and Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out for two months among 300 head and neck cancer patients at a tertiary cancer center in Madurai. A convenience sampling technique was used. The data were collected using a pretested, self-structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 software.

Results:
Of 300 head and neck cancer patients, the mean age of the patients was about 51.04 ± 16.49 years. The majority of the patients were male (80%), employed (85%), and literate (65%). Among the head and neck cancer patients, 65% were tobacco users and 42.4% were alcohol consumers. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common type of head and neck cancer, and 79.7% were diagnosed at an advanced stage of said cancer, such as stages III and IV.

Conclusion:
Lack of knowledge and awareness is a major cause of increasing prevalence of head and neck cancer in our country. It is most important to increase the knowledge and awareness of early symptom recognition and its seriousness among the general population.
Stereotactic radiosurgery in India: A nationwide survey of technology and quality assurance practices
Authors: Patwe Parimal T. , Deshpande Sudesh , Chaudhari Suresh , Mahajan Gajanan R. 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose:
India is rapidly adopting advanced treatments like Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS). However, there is a paucity of data on SRS practice. The aim of study is to assess the current status of technology and practices of machine quality assurance (QA) and patient specific quality assurance for SRS in India.

Materials and Methods:
A survey questionnaire was designed using Google Forms and sent to chief/senior medical physicists across 220 radiotherapy centers in India on July 15, 2022. It contained questions on infrastructure availability, treatment planning, and QA.

Results:
SRS was found to be extensively used for the treatment of brain metastases (99.3%), followed by meningioma (50.3%), acoustic neuroma (45.5%), and pituitary tumours (33.1%). The most commonly used photon energy and treatment technique were 6MV FFF and VMAT, respectively. A prescription isodose line ranging from 70% to 100% was selected by linac users. Most linac institutes verify pretreatment doses. There was a lack of uniformity in the analysis metrics such as Low Dose Threshold, Dose Difference, and Distance to Agreement. A survey revealed that the variety of SRS QA programs being followed at Indian radiotherapy centers.

Conclusion:
This is the first study to report the physics practice of SRS in India. The survey shows a need to carry out a postal dose audit for small static photon fields in India.
MRI assessment of ovarian masses and correlating with CA-125
Authors: Ranganath Amrutha , Sakalecha Anil K. , Darshan A. V. , Vineela E. 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
The combined use of appropriate imaging modalities and serum biomarkers like serum Carcinoembryonic Antigen-125 (CA-125) helps plan treatment strategies and reduce overall mortality.

Aims and Objectives:
To assess ovarian masses on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and correlate them with serum CA-125 values. To derive a new serum CA-125 cut-off value for differentiating benign from malignant ovarian masses.

Materials and Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2020 to January 2021 on patients with suspected pelvic masses referred to the department of radio-diagnosis and meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria. Serum CA-125 values and imaging features on MRI were recorded.

Results:
A total of 37 ovarian masses were included in the study, of which 14 were malignant and 23 were benign. The mean CA-125 values among benign [35.95 ± 25.42 (mean ± SD) IU/ml] and malignant ovarian masses [444.82 ± 232.9 (mean ± SD) IU/ml] were statistically significant (<0.001). Using the reference serum CA-125 value of 35 IU/ml, specificity and accuracy were 61% and 75.68%. A cut-off value of 80.5 IU/ml recorded specificity and accuracy of 95.7% and 94.59%, respectively, with a sensitivity of 92.86% in differentiating benign from malignant ovarian masses.

Conclusion:
The serum CA-125 cut-off value of 80.5 IU/ml is a sensitive and specific serum biomarker for ovarian malignancies. A combined approach of MR imaging and serum CA-125 correlation can be used in characterizing ovarian malignancies in routine clinical practice.
Role of CYFRA 21-1 and CEA as prognostic and predictive markers in locally advanced and metastatic gastric carcinoma
Authors: Gopal Vishnu , Nisha Yadav , Ganesan Prasanth , Kayal Smita , Bobby Zachariah , Adithan Subathra , Penumadu Prasanth , Ramakrishnalay Vishnu P. , Bandlamudi Bhanu P. , Bahttacharjee Arnab , Dahagama Sindhu , Dubashi Biswajit 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose:
Tumor-associated serum markers have demonstrated predictive and prognostic value in patients being treated for malignancies. However, the clinical importance of tumor markers in gastric cancers (GC) is poorly standardized.

Objectives:
The objective is to assess the clinical utility of cytokeratin-19 fragment (CYFRA 21-1) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) as serum tumor markers in advanced GC.

Methods:
In this prospective study, CYFRA 21-1 and CEA levels were measured at baseline and after three cycles of chemotherapy in patients with advanced GC. The association of tumor marker levels with prognosis and decline of tumor markers with radiological overall response rates (ORR) and survival were analyzed.

Results:
In the 105 patients, the proportion of patients with elevated baseline CYFRA 21-1 and CEA levels was 55% (N = 58) and 37% (N = 39) based on predefined cutoffs. Response assessment was done for 61 patients who received a minimum of three cycles of chemotherapy. A 15% and 13% reduction of serum levels from baseline for CYFRA 21-1 and CEA were selected for defining “CYFRA 21-1 response” and “CEA-response,” respectively. Both responses were significant predictors of radiological ORR. The median overall survival (OS) was 9.6 months in the entire cohort and 13 months for patients who received at least three cycles of chemotherapy. In multivariate analysis, baseline CEA levels and ECOG status were significant predictors of OS. In a subset analysis of patients receiving palliative chemotherapy, any of the tumor marker responses predicted improved 1-year OS.

Conclusion:
In advanced GC, CYFRA 21-1 and CEA decline from baseline appeared to be reliable surrogate markers of chemotherapy efficacy and improved survival.
The rise of counterfeit medication: an emerging threat?
Authors: Larik Muhammad Omar 
Published: January 2024

Madam,
The definition of health is far more complex than initially imagined. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), the “health” is defined as complete physical, mental, and social well-being instead of simply the absence of any disease.1 In the era of modern healthcare, medications are undoubtedly important in ensuring well-being worldwide. Despite monumental advances within the medical industry, the rise of counterfeit medication has become an emerging threat. Counterfeit medications are known as products sold with the deception of providing therapeutic benefits but consist of little-to-no active ingredients, which may or may not be harmful.2 Traditionally, the regulation of drug distribution falls under the responsibility of the health authorities of the relevant region, such as the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
Reports of an escalating influx of counterfeit medications into Pakistan have recently created pivotal concerns within the local communities.3,4 In Karachi, officials seized a large quantity of cefixime and aspirin suspension powders, which were found to be “fake and spurious”.3 The counterfeit medication was created by repackaging locally-manufactured powder into branded bottles, which were subsequently sold across the city. In another case affecting various cities in Pakistan, a factory was illegally manufacturing spurious medication, leading to a nationwide cautionary announcement to avoid the purchase of affected drugs, including the lifesaving meropenem, among various other cephalosporin drugs.4
The distribution of counterfeit medications can have drastic consequences for the population. Patients in critical conditions may suffer further harm due to defective treatment, as a result of the failure of substandard products.5 Moreover, counterfeit drugs manufactured with inappropriate doses or concentrations may lead to fatal adverse effects, such as respiratory paralysis or death.5 In order to address this pressing issue, the national authorities must take proactive measures to tackle the production and distribution of counterfeit medication:

There is a need for frequent and strict raids integrated within each city of Pakistan, in which local pharmacies have their inventory tested for substandard or inappropriate substances. Secondly.
The import of medications must also be strongly monitored, in order to prevent the arrival of counterfeit or unregistered medications from foreign regions.
It is recommended that the authorities establish pharmaceutical support programs for those individuals who cannot afford proper medications and eventually resort to purchasing substandard medication.
Dental health in the shadows of global commitments: Addressing neglected priorities in lower middle-income countries
Authors: Qamar Wajiha 
Published: January 2024

I am writing to draw your attention to a serious concern that requires our attention around global health commitments: the frequently disregarded and undervalued dental reforms. In the realm of global health commitments, dental reforms are often ignored and underestimated. (1) Despite significant advancements in many other facets of health owing to these commitments, dental health remains marginalized within its sphere creating a glaring disparity, especially in lower middle-income countries where it’s a crucial concern.(2)
Dental health has a significant impact on a person's quality of life in addition to preventing oral diseases. It has a significant impact on a person's quality of life, having an impact on their mental and physical well-being. Neglected oral health can affect speech, self-esteem, and psychosocial wellbeing as well as cause pain, infections, malnutrition, and systemic health problems.(3) The disruptive relationship between oral diseases and significant medical conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes emphasizes the complex relationship between dental health and overall health.
Despite efforts to promote understanding, such as Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the International Health Regulations (IHR), oral health is often disregarded in global discussion. Particularly in lower middle-income countries, oral health is neglected due to a lack of tailored interventions, which decreases its significance. A significant leap forward has been made with the recent World Health Organization (WHO) resolution that declares oral health a global priority and calls for its inclusion in national strategies. The WHO has acknowledged the need to address this problem immediately.(4) The challenge, however, is recognition into concrete, commitment-backed activities and specific interventions. The resolution has potential, but its effectiveness will be judged by the concrete measures taken to bridge the gaps.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a potential reference point for rectifying this gap. By integrating oral health in SDGs like Goal 3 on excellent health and well-being, a holistic approach may be taken. This integration could help bridge the gap between international commitments, raise the public's awareness of oral health, and foster tailored initiatives for dental reforms.
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Retrospective analysis of the clinical significance of Ro52/TRIM21 antibody and specific antinuclear antibody patterns by indirect immunofluorescence
Authors: Kaifang Liu  , Yunfeng Liao  , Pu Li  , Jing Shi  
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To determine the clinical significance of Ro52 protein/tripartite motif-containing 21 antibody and specific antinuclear antibody patterns using indirect immunofluorescence technique.
Method: The retrospective study was conducted at the clinical laboratory of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, China, and comprised data from January 2017 to December 2021 of patients who underwent antinuclear antibody and anti-extractable nuclear antigen antibody detection. Inpatients with Ro52 antibody-positive status were taken as the cases, while anti-Ro52 negative patients with clear clinical diagnosis were taken as the controls. Data was analysed using SPSS 19.
Results: There were 1802 cases and 1211 controls. Positive Ro52 showed significantly greater frequency in patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory myositis, dry eyes and interstitial lung disease (p<0.05). Ro52 antibody showed high positive predictive value for primary Sjogren’s syndrome 25(96.15%), systemic lupus erythematosus 259(91.20%), connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease 45(86.67%) and inflammatory myositis 60(86.67%). Antinuclear antibody indirect immunofluorescence patterns most frequently detected were nuclear speckled 128(40.89%) and cytoplasmic speckled 126(40.26%) (p<0.05). Interstitial lung disease was associated with the presence of cytoplasmic speckled antinuclear antibody indirect immunofluorescence pattern 24(19.2%), while tumours 47(36.5%) and hepatitis B 26(20.3%) seemed to be more frequent with nuclear speckled pattern (p<0.05). The simultaneous reactivity extractable nuclear antigen antibodies most frequently detected were antinuclear antibody+Ro52+anti-Sjogren's syndrome A+ 558(33.96%).
Conclusion: Ro52 antibody positivity was found to be associated with Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory myositis, dry eye and interstitial lung disease. The antinuclear antibody immunofluorescence pattern of Ro52 positive was single and primarily granular cytoplasm type. Antinuclear antibody negative and Ro52 positive in the serum of patients also had certain significance in auxiliary disease diagnosis.
Key Words: Anti-Ro52 autoantibody, Autoimmune disease, Sjogren's syndrome, Xerophthalmia, Tripartite motif-containing 21 protein.
Comparison of saddle contoured metal matrix and pre-contoured self-adhesive matrix in composite resin class II restorations; an in vivo study
Authors: Sarwar Nosheen , Khokhar Sheharyar Akhtar 
Published: January 2024

Objective: To evaluate composite class II restoration proximal contacts and contours by comparing saddle-contoured metal matrix and pre-contoured self-adhesive matrix system.
Method: The randomised controlled trial (NCT05414656) was conducted at the Department of Operative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan, from May to October 2022, and comprises the patients having supra-gingival class II cavities. They were randomised into class II restoration with saddle-contoured matrix band group A, and restoration with pre-contoured self-adhesive matrix group B. The tightness of proximal contacts was evaluated using the Fédération Dentaire Internationale criteria and the quality of proximal contours was assessed using clinical and radiographic examination. Data was analysed using SPSS 16.
Results: Of the 60 subjects, 42(70%) were females and 18(30%) were males. The overall mean age was 38.03±15.33 years. There were 30(50%) subjects in each of the 2 groups. The highest restoration was needed in the upper premolar 20(33.3%). The tightness of proximal contact was not significantly different between the groups (p=0.94). Clinical examination for production of good contours was higher in group A compared to group B, but the difference was not significant (p>0.05).
Conclusion: There was no significant difference between saddle-contoured metal matrix and pre-contoured self-adhesive matrix for composite class II restoration proximal contacts and contours.
Clinical Trial Link: https://clinicaltrials.gov RCT (NCT05414656)
Key Words: Dental restoration, Composite resin, Dental caries, Matrix bands.
True brachial artery aneurysm: A systematic review
Authors: Alam Syed Muhammad Hammad , Saima Moin  , Rabia Gilani  , Nida Jawad  , Kiran Abbas  , Aayat Ellahi  
Published: January 2024

Objective: To identify and critically appraise literature on true brachial artery aneurysm, exploring its demographic characteristics, aetiologies, clinical manifestations and different methods of repair along with complication rates to determine future treatment strategies.
Method: The systematic review was conducted at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi, from September 30, 2021, to November 30, 2022, in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Literature was searched on MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases for relevant studies in English language or with English translation published till May 31, 2022. The key words used for the search were “brachial artery aneurysm”. Data was noted on a proforma and was subjected to descriptive analysis.
Results: Of 113 the articles, 6 (5.3%) were retrospective studies, 7 (6.1%) were case series and 100 (88.4%) were case reports. The total number of patients involved was 157 with mean age 43.1+23.4 years (range: 2 months to 84 years). The gender was mentioned for 152(96.8%) patients; 111(73%) and 41(27%) females. The mean diameter of true brachial artery aneurysm was 36.2+17.5mm and 106(67.5%) patients presented with localised swelling, 65(41.4%) with pain, 41(26.1%) with distal ischemic symptoms, and 28(17.8%) with median nerve compression. True brachial artery aneurysms were more common in renal failure patients having a history of arteriovenous fistula creation in the affected limb and were on immunosuppressant drugs due to renal transplant 81(51.5%). Less common causes included primary/idiopathic 27(17.1%), trauma 13(8.2%), connective tissue disorders 8(5%) and vascuilits 7(4.5%).
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Impact of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Stress and Burnout among Physical Education Teachers in South Africa
Authors: Gugulethu Jabulisile 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Purpose: The aim of the study was to impact of a mindfulness-based intervention on stress and burnout among physical education teachers
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: This study investigated the impact of an eight-week mindfulness-based intervention on stress and burnout in 24 physical education teachers. The intervention included guided meditations, group discussions, and experiential exercises. Results revealed that the intervention group displayed significantly lower stress and burnout levels compared to the control group at both post-test and follow-up assessments.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Stress and Coping Theory, self-determination theory (sdt) & job demands-resources (jd-r) model may be used to anchor future studies on impact of a mindfulness-based intervention on stress and burnout among physical education teachers. Practitioners and program developers should collaborate to create interventions that address the unique stressors and challenges faced by educators in physical education settings. Policymakers in the field of education should acknowledge the potential benefits of mindfulness-based interventions for teacher well-being and, subsequently, for student outcomes.
Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Promoting Financial Inclusion in Rural African Communities in Rwanda
Authors: Mugisha Blessing 
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities
Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
Findings: This transformation has led to increased savings, facilitated seamless payments, and expanded access to credit, contributing to economic growth, poverty reduction, and enhanced financial resilience in rural communities. Nonetheless, persistent challenges such as limited infrastructure and digital literacy gaps underscore the need for ongoing efforts to fully harness the potential of ICTs, making them a crucial driver of rural development and inclusive growth in Rwanda.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Social Capital Theory & Resource-Based Theory may be used to anchor future studies on role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities. Collaborate with technology providers to develop and deploy ICT solutions tailored to the specific needs and preferences of rural African communities. Policymakers should ensure that regulations support innovation, competition, and consumer protection.
Pendidikan Moderasi Beragama pada Masyarakat Moderen (SOCIETY 5.0)
Authors: Faizin Husnul 
Published: January 2024

Dalam artikel ini membahas pentingnya pendidikan moderasi beragama bagi kehidupan sosial masyarakat modern (society 5.0). Moderasi beragama merupakan sikap, pandangan, dan perilaku yang tidak ekstrem dalam pengamalan keberagamaan. Dalam konteks kehidupan bernegara, moderasi beragama memiliki posisi urgent dalam mewujudkan keutuhan dan kerukunan kehidupan sosial berbangsa dan bernegara. Salah satu upaya internalisasi dan insersi nilai moderasi beragama dilakukan melalui pendidikan (education) sehingga dapat memperbaiki pemahaman yang keliru tentang konsep beragama pada masyarakat modern (society 5.0).
Pemahaman beragama yang moderat dan inklusif (terbuka) sangat dibutuhkan di era masyarakat modern (society 5.0) yang multicultural dan multiagama sehingga pendidikan moderasi beragama perlu hadir sebagai upaya preventif dari paham beragama yang ekstrim ataupun penyebaran sikap radikalisme di Indonesia.