bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep transverse friction massage in the management of adhesive capsulitis: A systematic review
Authors: Khan Shahid , Arsh Aatik , Khan Sargand , Ali Shahid 
Published: December 2023

Objectives: To review published clinical trials which assessed the effects of deep transverse friction massage on pain and range of motion in patients with adhesive capsulitis.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Literature search was performed in MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, HMIC, CINAHL, PEDRO, and SPORTDiscus. Two independent reviewers performed screening of the articles retrieved from different databases. Clinical trials published in English language from the earliest record to March 2022 that reported effects of deep transverse friction massage/Cyriax’s friction massage on pain and/or range of motion in patients with diagnosis of adhesive capsulitis were included. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was used for quality assessment of the included studies.
Results: A total of six studies reporting on 226 adhesive capsulitis patients were included in the systematic review. All the six studies were randomized controlled clinical trials. On the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool, four of the six studies had a score of 8/11, while the other two studies received a score of 7/11 and 6/11. Out of these six trials, four reported that pain was significantly (P<0.05) improved in the deep transverse friction massage group as compared to the control group. Regarding range of motion outcome, five studies showed that range of motion was significantly (P<0.05) improved in the deep transverse friction massage group while only one study showed non-significant results.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that deep transverse friction massage significantly relieves pain and improves the range of motion in individuals with adhesive capsulitis.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7218
How to cite this: Khan S, Arsh A, Khan S, Ali S. Deep transverse friction massage in the management of adhesive capsulitis: A systematic review. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):526-533. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7218
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
From pathogenesis to current treatment of the cutaneous psoriasis - a literature review
Authors: Jakubowska Wiktoria , Pisera Piotr , Kiełkowicz Aleksandra , Pactwa Filip , Popińska Zuzanna , Ślusarczyk Daniel , Żmuda Bartłomiej , Żuberek Michał 
Published: December 2023

Introduction:
Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that can be divided into several subtypes based on the areas of the body occupied by the lesions and the severity of the disease. The overall prevalence of psoriasis ranges from 0 to 11,8%. The disease occurs with equal frequency in both sexes. PsO cannot be completely cured, so many patients experience stigma and have diminished self-esteem due to the characteristic appearance of the lesions.

Aim of the study:
The purpose of the study is to summarize the available knowledge about classification and options for psoriasis treatment. The options in diagnosis and treatment, including the latest methods, were described and summarized.

Materials and methods:
Literature available in the PubMed database was reviewed using the following keywords: “Psoriasis”, “Nail Psoriasis”, “Psoriasis Vulgaris”, “Psoriasis Treatment”, “New Psoriasis Treatment”, “Psoriasis Classification”, “Biologic Therapy for Psoriasis”, “Systemic Therapy for psoriasis”.

Conclusions:
Psoriasis is a genetic skin condition mediated by the immune system. The underlying mechanisms entail intricate interactions between the innate and adaptive immune system. There are various indices for assessing the severity of psoriasis, the most commonly used of which is PASI(Psoriasis Area and Severity Index). Retinoids, cyclosporine and methotrexate are the non-biologic therapies most frequently employed for moderate to severe psoriasis treatment, while topical therapy, which includes mainly corticosteroids and vitamin D analogues, is a successful approach for effectively managing mild psoriasis.
Anxiety disorders pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods of therapy
Authors: Truchta Monika , Mańkowska Aleksandra , Jabłońska Wiktoria , Wardęszkieiwcz Marta , Kasprzak Amelia , Markowiak Szymon , Świercz Maciej , Kolano Agata , Pejas Anna 
Published: December 2023

Introduction and purpose: Anxiety disorders are a heterogeneous cluster of common mental health disorders typically characterized by hyperarousal, excessive fear and worry. Unfortunately, a large portion of the world's population does not have access to traditional mental health care, this is influenced by the paucity of available psychiatric services, particularly in many low- and middle-income countries. This article will discuss how patients suffering from depression or anxiety disorders turn to non-pharmacological and unconventional interventions such as exercise, yoga, meditation, aromatherapy or music therapy.
The aim of study: The purpose of this literature review was to assemble and analyse the available data about anxiety disorders.
Material and method: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in Pubmed database was carried out using following keywords: Anxiety disorders; depression; mental illness; alternative treatment methods.
Description of the State of Knowledge: Pathologically increased anxiety is found not only in anxiety disorders per se, but also in most other types of mental illness. The first-line methods are pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Of particular interest is the use of physical activity and exercise in the treatment of anxiety disorders. This treatment is inexpensive and has few undesired effects. Exercises such as yoga, meditation, tai chi or qi gong are becoming more and more popular.
Summary: Anxiety disorders can now be treated effectively. Current research focuses on individualized forms. We hope that even more effective methods of therapy will be developed than those currently available.
Keywords: Anxiety disorders; depression; mental illness; alternative treatment methods.
COVID-19 in Pakistan: A national analysis of five pandemic waves
Authors: Ahmad Taimoor , Abdullah Mujahid , Mueed Abdul , Sultan Faisal , Khan Ayesha , Khan Adnan Ahmad 
Published: December 2023

Objectives
The COVID-19 pandemic showed distinct waves where cases ebbed and flowed. While each country had slight, nuanced differences, lessons from each wave with country-specific details provides important lessons for prevention, understanding medical outcomes and the role of vaccines. This paper compares key characteristics from the five different COVID-19 waves in Pakistan.

Methods
Data was sourced from daily national situation reports (Sitreps) prepared by the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in Islamabad. We use specific criteria to define COVID-19 waves. The start of each COVID-19 wave is marked by the day of the lowest number of daily cases preceding a sustained increase, while the end is the day with the lowest number of cases following a 7-days decline, which should be lower than the 7 days following it. Key variables such as COVID-19 tests, cases, and deaths with their rates of change to the peak and then to the trough are used to draw descriptive comparisons. Additionally, a linear regression model estimates daily new COVID-19 deaths in Pakistan.

Results
Pakistan saw five distinct waves, each of which displayed the typical topology of a complete infectious disease epidemic. The time from wave-start to peak became progressively shorter, and from wave-peak to trough, progressively longer. Each wave appears to also be getting shorter, except for wave 4, which lasted longer than wave 3. A one percent increase in vaccinations decreased deaths by 0.38% (95% CI: -0.67, -0.08) in wave 5 and the association is statistically significant.

Conclusion
Each wave displayed distinct characteristics that must be interpreted in the context of the level of response and the variant driving the epidemic. Key indicators suggest that COVID-19 preventive measures kept pace with the disease. Waves 1 and 2 were mainly about prevention and learning how to clinically manage patients. Vaccination started late during wave 3 and its impact on hospitalizations and deaths became visible in wave 5. The impact of highly virulent strains Alpha/B.1.1.7 and Delta/B.1.617.2 variants during wave 3 and milder but more infectious Omicron/B.1.1.529 during wave 5 are apparent.
Epidemiological characterization of ischemic heart disease at different altitudes: A nationwide population-based analysis from 2011 to 2021 in Ecuador
Authors: Ortiz-Prado Esteban , Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. , Fernández-Naranjo Raúl , Vásconez-González Jorge , Cano Leonardo , González Ana Carolina , Morales-Lapo Estefanía , Guerrero-Castillo Galo S. , Duque Erick , Rosero Maria Gabriela Davila , Egas Diego , Viscor Ginés 
Published: December 2023

Background
Cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease, are the leading cause of premature death and disability worldwide. While traditional risk factors such as smoking, obesity, and diabetes have been thoroughly investigated, non-traditional risk factors like high-altitude exposure remain underexplored. This study aims to examine the incidence and mortality rates of ischemic heart disease over the past decade in Ecuador, a country with a diverse altitude profile spanning from 0 to 4,300 meters.

Methods
We conducted a geographic distribution analysis of ischemic heart disease in Ecuador, utilizing hospital discharge and mortality data from the National Institute of Census and Statistics for the years 2011–2021. Altitude exposure was categorized according to two distinct classifications: the traditional division into low (< 2,500 m) and high (> 2,500 m) altitudes, as well as the classification proposed by the International Society of Mountain Medicine, which delineates low (< 1,500 m), moderate (1,500–2,500 m), high (2,500–3,500 m), and very high (3,500–5,800 m) altitudes.

Findings
From 2011–2021, we analyzed 49,765 IHD-related hospital admissions and 62,620 deaths. Men had an age-adjusted incidence rate of 55.08/100,000 and a mortality rate of 47.2/100,000, compared to 20.77/100,000 and 34.8/100,000 in women. Incidence and mortality surged in 2020 by 83% in men and 75% in women. Altitudinal stratification revealed higher IHD rates at lower altitudes (<2500 m), averaging 61.65 and 121.8 per 100,000 for incidence and mortality, which declined to 25.9 and 38.5 at elevations >2500 m. Men had more pronounced rates across altitudes, exhibiting 138.7% and 150.0% higher incidence at low and high altitudes respectively, and mortality rates increased by 48.3% at low altitudes and 23.2% at high altitudes relative to women.

Conclusion
Ecuador bears a significant burden of ischemic heart disease (IHD), with men being more affected than women in terms of incidence. However, women have a higher percentage of mortality post-hospital admission. Regarding elevation, our analysis, using two different altitude cutoff points, reveals higher mortality rates in low-altitude regions compared to high-altitude areas, suggesting a potential protective effect of high elevation on IHD risk. Nevertheless, a definitive dose-response relationship between high altitude and reduced IHD risk could not be conclusively established.
Genetic diversity and phylogeography of Phlebotomus argentipes (Diptera: Psychodidae, Phlebotominae), using COI and ND4 mitochondrial gene sequences
Authors: Wedage W. Methsala Madurangi , Harischandra Iresha N. , Weerasena O. V. D. S. Jagathpriya , De Silva B. G. D. N. K. 
Published: December 2023

Background
Phlebotomus argentipes complex is the primary vector for cutaneous leishmaniasis, a burgeoning health concern in contemporary Sri Lanka, where effective vector control is important for proper disease management. Understanding the genetic diversity of the P. argentipes population in Sri Lanka is vital before implementing a successful vector control program. Various studies have indicated that genetic divergence, caused by genetic drift or selection, can significantly influence the vector capacity of arthropod species. To devise innovative control strategies for P. argentipes, exploring genetic diversity and phylogeography can offer valuable insights into vector competence, key genetic trait transfer, and impact on disease epidemiology. The primary objective is to analyze the genetic diversity and phylogeography of the P. argentipes complex in Sri Lanka, based on two mitochondrial genomic regions in modern representatives of P. argentipes populations.

Methodology
A total of 159 P. argentipes specimens were collected from five endemic areas of cutaneous leishmaniasis and identified morphologically. Two mitochondrial regions (Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4) were amplified using the total DNA and subsequently sequenced. Partial sequences of those mitochondrial genes were utilized to analyze genetic diversity indices and to explore phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships.

Principal findings
Among five sampling locations, the highest genetic diversity for COI and ND4 was observed in Hambantota (Hd—0.749, π—0.00417) and Medirigiriya (Hd—0.977, π—0.01055), respectively. Phylogeographic analyses conducted using COI sequences and GenBank retrieved sequences demonstrated a significant divergence of P. argentipes haplotypes found in Sri Lanka. Results revealed that they have evolved from the Indian ancestral haplotype due to historical- geographical connections of the Indian subcontinent with Sri Lanka.

Conclusions
Utilizing high-mutation-rate mitochondrial genes, such as ND4, can enhance the accuracy of genetic variability analysis in P. argentipes populations in Sri Lanka. The phylogeographical analysis of COI gene markers in this study provides insights into the historical geographical relationship between India and P. argentipes in Sri Lanka. Both COI and ND4 genes exhibited consistent genetic homogeneity in P. argentipes in Sri Lanka, suggesting minimal impact on gene flow. This homogeneity also implies the potential for horizontal gene transfer across populations, facilitating the transmission of genes associated with traits like insecticide resistance. This dynamic undermines disease control efforts reliant on vector control strategies.
Puberty, brain network connectivity and neuropsychiatric outcomes following pediatric traumatic brain injury in females: A research protocol
Authors: Livny Abigail , Silberg Tamar 
Published: December 2023

Background
Examining the role of sex on recovery from pediatric TBI (pTBI) is a complex task, specifically when referring to injuries occurring during critical developmental and maturation periods. The effect of sex hormones on neurological and neuropsychiatric outcomes has been studied among adult TBI females, but not in children. During development, puberty is considered a key milestone accompanied by changes in physical growth, neuronal maturation, sex hormones, and psychological symptoms. Following pTBI, such changes might have a significant effect on brain re-organization and on long-term neuropsychiatric outcomes. While hormonal dysfunction is a common consequence following pTBI, only few studies have systematically evaluated hormonal changes following pTBI.

Aims
To describe a multimodal protocol aimed to examine the effect of puberty on brain connectivity and long-term neuropsychiatric outcomes following TBI in female girls and adolescents.

Methods
A case-control longitudinal prospective design will be used. 120 female participants aged 9 to 16 years (N = 60 per group) will be recruited. In the acute phase (T0-1 month), participants will undergo an MRI protocol for brain connectivity, as well as a clinical evaluation for puberty stage and hormonal levels. In the chronic phase (T1-18-24 months), participants will complete a neuropsychiatric assessment in addition to the MRI and puberty evaluations. Hormonal levels will be monitored at T0 and T1. A moderation-mediation model will be used to examine the moderating effects of puberty on the association between pTBI and neuropsychiatric symptoms in female girls and adolescents, through the mediating effect of brain network connectivity.

Significance
This study will highlight sex-specific factors related to outcomes among females following pTBI and enhance our understanding of the unique challenges they face. Such information has a substantial potential to guide future directions for research, policy and practice.
Gait analysis: An effective tool to mechanically monitor the bone regeneration of critical-sized defects in tissue engineering applications
Authors: Blázquez-Carmona Pablo , Mora-Macías Juan , Morgaz Juan , Granados María del Mar , Domínguez Jaime , Reina-Romo Esther 
Published: December 2023

Introduction
Tissue engineering has emerged as an innovative approach to treat critical-size bone defects using biocompatible scaffolds, thus avoiding complex distraction surgeries or limited stock grafts. Continuous regeneration monitoring is essential in critical-size cases due to the frequent appearance of non-unions. This work evaluates the potential clinical use of gait analysis for the mechanical assessment of a tissue engineering regeneration as an alternative to the traditional and hardly conclusive manual or radiological follow-up.

Materials and methods
The 15-mm metatarsal fragment of eight female merino sheep was surgically replaced by a bioceramic scaffold stabilized with an external fixator. Gait tests were performed weekly by making the sheep walk on an instrumented gangway. The evolution of different kinematic and dynamic parameters was analyzed for all the animal’s limbs, as well as asymmetries between limbs. Finally, potential correlation in the recovery of the gait parameters was evaluated through the linear regression models.

Results
After surgery, the operated limb has an altered way of carrying body weight while walking. Its loading capacity was significantly reduced as the stance phases were shorter and less impulsive. The non-operated limbs compensated for this mobility deficit. All parameters were normalizing during the consolidation phase while the bone callus was simultaneously mineralizing. The results also showed high levels of asymmetry between the operated limb and its contralateral, which exceeded 150% when analyzing the impulse after surgery. Gait recovery significantly correlated between symmetrical limbs.

Conclusions
Gait analysis was presented as an effective, low-cost tool capable of mechanically predicting the regeneration of critical-size defects treated by tissue engineering, as comparing regeneration processes or novel scaffolds. Despite the progressive normalization as the callus mineralized, the bearing capacity reduction and the asymmetry of the operated limb were more significant than in other orthopedic alternatives.
Implementation of Environmental Care Character Education in Children Aged 5-6 Years
Authors: Sidiq Adelia Miranti , Istiani Meity , Kustini Ninik 
Published: December 2023

Providing education is a process of acculturating and empowering students that lasts throughout life. In this process, the role of educators is needed who is able and willing to be a role model, build abilities, and develop students' potential and creativity. The type of research used is a descriptive method with a qualitative approach. This research aims to provide an overview of the Implementation of Character Development. Based on the results of research on the implementation of environmentally caring character education at Bakti IV Bubutan Islamic Kindergarten, Surabaya, the process of implementing environmentally caring character education was carried out by integrating environmentally caring character education into learning activities. This is indicated by the curriculum content used at the Bakti IV Bubutan Islamic Kindergarten, Surabaya, which refers to candy. And the scientific approach in the Merdeka 2020 PAUD Curriculum learning tools for character education already contains character values, starting from CP (learning outcomes), TP (learning objectives) in addition to the semester program and weekly activity plans which already contain character values. Based on the results of the analysis and discussion, the author can draw conclusions regarding the process of developing environmentally caring character in children through the habituation method used by teachers at the Bakti IV Bubutan Islamic Kindergarten, Surabaya.
Spotkania Małżeńskie jako droga rozwoju małżonków – na podstawie przeglądu wybranej literatury oraz badań własnych
Authors: Stankiewicz Katarzyna , Kochan Anna 
Published: December 2023

Spotkania Małżeńskie jako stowarzyszenie katolickie, oferujące rekolekcje dla małżeństw, od wielu lat wspiera małżonków na ich wspólnej drodze, oferując im narzędzia z zakresu efektywnej komunikacji małżeńskiej, opierające się na doświadczeniu współpracy z łaską Bożą wypływającą z mocy sakramentu małżeństwa. W artykule przedstawiono wyniki badań, których przedmiotem było znaczenie Spotkań Małżeńskich dla rozwoju małżonków – zarówno w wymiarze małżeńskim, jak też indywidualnym.
Celem badań było poznanie tego rozwoju w kontekście zaangażowania małżonków w katolickiej wspólnocie. Wzięli w nich udział animatorzy prowadzący rekolekcje. Wykorzystano metodę wywiadu otwartego pogłębionego w ramach jakościowej strategii badań. Wyniki pozwoliły na sformułowanie wniosków dotyczących funkcjonowania w związku i rozwoju małżonków zaangażowanych w Spotkaniach Małżeńskich.
Badania pokazały, jak pomocna dla związku może być znajomość zasad i codzienne praktykowanie efektywnej komunikacji interpersonalnej, prowadzonej zgodnie z zasadami otwartości, poszanowania i akceptacji drugiej osoby, powiązanej z rozumieniem małżeństwa wypływającym z nauki Kościoła. Niezwykle istotny okazał się również kontakt z innymi małżeństwami oraz wymiana doświadczeń dotyczących przeżywanych trudności i kryzysów w relacji oraz sposobów radzenia sobie z nimi. Wyniki badań stały się punktem wyjścia do sformułowania rekomendacji w zakresie duszpasterstwa małżeństw.