Search results for “Approach”

From Pelvis to Foot: A Functional Approach to Preventing Ankle Sprains in Athletes

Background Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries in sports, often characterized by high recurrence rates despite appropriate local treatment. Traditional approaches primarily focus on the injured joint, with limited attention to proximal biomechanical factors that may predispose athletes to injury. Objective To propose a functional, longitudinal kinetic chain model in which sacroiliac joint dysfunction may act as a predisposing factor for ankle sprain/strain injuries in athletes. Methods This paper presents a clinical hypothesis based on biomechanical reasoning and observational findings. The proposed model describes how sacroiliac joint dysfunction, particularly posterior innominate rotation (PI), may lead to pelvic obliquity and functional leg length discrepancy. These changes may induce compensatory femoral external rotation and foot toe-out, altering ground contact mechanics during gait and running. Results (Hypothesis) The altered alignment and loading pattern may increase the vertical impact force and modify the ground reaction vector on the functionally shorter limb, resulting in reduced mechanical stability at the ankle during heel strike or foot contact. Over time, this may increase susceptibility to inversion or eversion injuries, manifesting clinically as recurrent sprain/strain. Conclusion Ankle sprains in athletes may, in some cases, represent the distal expression of a proximal biomechanical imbalance. Incorporating assessment of the sacroiliac joint and the longitudinal kinetic chain into routine clinical evaluation may improve injury risk identification and contribute to more effective prevention strategies. Further research is needed to investigate this proposed relationship.

Spiritual Blessing Energy Treatment as an Approach for Boosting Growth and Yield of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria L.)

The objective of this study was to improve the growth and yields of bottle gourd plants after exposure with spiritual blessing energy treatment (SBET) to the seeds and land. Twenty-one morphological traits of leaves, fruit, seed, and twenty-eight phenological parameters were employed to evaluate bottle gourd’s growth and yields after SBET. Results of bottle gourd showed a diversifiable characteristic of leaves, fruits, and seeds. Nine qualitative traits exhibited with distinct differences in the biofield-energy treatment group compared to the control. At harvest, growth-related phenological parameters such as plant vine length, number of branches, internodal length, and leaf width were significantly improved in the treatment group by 65.43% (p ≤ 0.001), 51.78% (p ≤ 0.01), 49.40% (p ≤ 0.001), and 40.82% (p ≤ 0.001), respectively, compared to the control. Additionally, yield-related parameters such as number of female flowers, number of fruits per vine, and fruit yield per hectare were significantly increased by 47.73% (p ≤ 0.05), 26.52% (p ≤ 0.001), and 38.99% (p ≤ 0.05), respectively, with respect to the control. With distinct qualitative variations and high statistical significance, these results suggest that SBET may serve as a potent non-traditional intervention for optimizing phenological development and agricultural output of bottle gourd.

Core and activating Symptoms of Depression in Chinese Teachers and Comparison between Different Gender and Stage of Teaching: A Network Analysis Approach

Background Depression, increasingly recognized as a critical factor impacting mental health, notably affects various populations, including teachers. This study aimed to delineate the specific characteristics of depressive symptom networks among Chinese teachers, identify the core symptoms of depression within this demographic, and examine the variations in depressive symptom networks across different genders and teaching stages. Method The study encompassed 1,670 teachers. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Central symptoms were identified through centrality indices. Network stability was examined via a case-dropping procedure. Directed Acyclic Graphs (DAG) was used to identify the activating symptoms. Results “Personal devaluation” exhibited the highest and most stable centrality values in the network. “Depressed Affect” and “Emptiness of Life” were identified as the activating symptoms in the network. No significant differences were observed in the network structure and global strength of depression between teachers of different genders. However, significant differences in the network’s global strength were found between junior and senior high school teachers. Conclusion “Personal devaluation” emerged as the core depressive symptoms among teachers in China. “Depressed Affect” and “Emptiness of Life” serve as the gateways that activate the entire teacher depression network. Paying close attention to these symptoms could potentially alleviate the experiences of depression in this demographic.

A Decision Tree Ensemble Approach to Diabetes Prediction using the Framingham Heart Dataset, Exploring the Role of AI-Associated Interventions in Reducing Diabetes-Related Adverse Outcomes Between Men and Women

Objective Diabetes poses significant public health challenges, with many individuals remaining undiagnosed and at risk of complications. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of decision tree ensemble methods for predicting diabetes onset using the Framingham Heart Study Teaching Dataset and to explore sex-specific risk patterns relevant to AI-driven interventions. Methods We analyzed data from 11,627 participants, incorporating demographics, vital signs, smoking status, medication use, and laboratory measures. Random Forest classifiers were developed to predict diabetes incidence at approximately 6-year (Period 2) and 12-year (Period 3) follow-ups. Class imbalance was addressed using undersampling, oversampling, and the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE). Results The models demonstrated robust performance, achieving an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.856 in Period 2, and moderate predictive ability in Period 3 (AUC = 0.732 in males, 0.786 in females). Key predictors included glucose level, BMI, systolic blood pressure, age, and heart rate. Notably, differences emerged in predictive accuracy between men and women, suggesting potential sex-specific vulnerabilities that merit further study. Conclusion Machine learning approaches, particularly Random Forests, show promise for medium- and long-term diabetes risk prediction, supporting early identification and intervention efforts. Future work should focus on hyperparameter tuning and explainability techniques, such as SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values, to improve model precision, interpretability, and fairness. Equity-focused strategies remain critical to ensure AI-driven tools benefit diverse populations and do not exacerbate existing disparities in diabetes care.

Molecular Approaches for Assessing Some Iranian Freshwater Fish Species

Monitoring fish biodiversity and its changes over time and their ecological research is one of the important sources of information in their protection. They can be used to find fish biodiversity at different times, such as the capture and maintenance of whole fish, genetic samples, or the use of scales. In this regard, to check the prepared sample, 10-15 scales were prepared from the area of the lid, dorsal fin, and tail stem. Then, they were treated in 5% potassium solution and settled on a slide using a loop microscope equipped with a camera. Among the examined species, Luciobarbusbraczcephalus, Luciobarbuscapito and Capoetasaadispecies could be distinguished from other species with the highest accuracy. In the genetic studies conducted using the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 gene, the patterns observed in the neighbor joining genealogical tree were consistent with the differences in the genera and species studied. The results of this investigation show that the origin of species can be determined with more than 50% accuracy using genetic data.

Quantum Approach to Allergic Pathology

Allergy, despite its stereotyped symptomatic manifestations, continues to pose significant etiological, pathophysiological, and therapeutic challenges. In the interface between the body and the environment, the respiratory pathway is particularly stressed from an allergological perspective. Under the relationship between energy and matter signed by Einstein, it is possible to approach patients suffering from allergies with an Electraceutical 1 administration in a quantum modality.

RETRACTED: Leap into Fetal Surgery; In Utero Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy, A Contemporary Approach to Treating Myelomeningocele

This article has been retracted on April 10, 2025. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2997-2086.jfs-25-5857) Myelomeningocele (MMC), a class of spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year approximately 1,400 babies born in the United States have spina bifida. The disease manifests with the lack of skin and bone covering the caudal part of the spinal cord. The patient developing such a condition often develops lifelong impaired lower limb mobility accompanied by hydrocephalus, and urinary and bowel incontinence. The available interventions include prenatal and postnatal surgery to fuse the dura. Prenatal surgery performed before 26 weeks of gestation reduces the risk of death or the need for ventriculoperitoneal shunting. It also enhanced results on a comprehensive index for mental and motor function. When compared to postnatal surgery, prenatal surgery reduces the manifestation of several secondary outcomes, including the degree of hindbrain herniation seen in the Chiari II malformation. Stem cell therapy for MMC on animal models of chick, ovine, and rodents with reported cases 15/63, 15, and 136, respectively, using human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs), Neural Stem Cells (NSCs), Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) showed significant coverage of MMC defect and slight neurogenesis was also observed. With an understanding of medical literature about in-utero regenerative capacity, it is to be appreciated that placental stem cells surgically seeded within a biocompatible scaffold of the cell patches can play a part in alleviating the spinal cord manifestation associated with MMC. Documented animal studies show that incorporating Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells in prenatal surgery has reported improved neurogenesis and lower limb mobility. In an ovine myelomeningocele model, the development of in-utero myelomeningocele repair with human Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cells seeded onto an extracellular matrix (PMSC-ECM) enhances motor findings. The clinical trial for the first stem cell therapy on human subjects known as the “CuRe Trial: Cellular Therapy for In Utero Repair of Myelomeningocele.” is expected to be finished by 2030. So far, the cases undergoing treatment have shown significant leg movement and a greater degree of bowel and urinary control. This FDA-approved clinical trial is envisioned to be the future of treating MMC.

Retraction Note: Leap into Fetal Surgery; In Utero Placental Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy, A Contemporary Approach to Treating Myelomeningocele

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Quality Improvement Strategies in Mid-Level Private Healthcare Facilities of Lagos State: A Donabedian Model-Based Approach

Background This study evaluates the effectiveness of quality improvement (QI) strategies in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State, with a focus on the structural components, healthcare processes, and healthcare outcomes. Employing the Donabedian model, the research aims to comprehensively assess and enhance healthcare service quality in these facilities. Methods A before-and-after study design was employed, involving a baseline assessment of 321 health facilities and endline assessment of 239 healthcare facilities, and a subsequent 10 - 12-month quality improvement intervention. Data were collected using facility assessments, client exit interviews, and interviews with key stakeholders. The analysis included a before and after analysis of the structural components, healthcare processes, and healthcare outcomes. Results The study demonstrates positive outcomes in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State following quality improvement (QI) interventions. Structural components, including, improved equipment availability, and enhanced compliance with standards, showcased significant improvements. Renovations and heightened registration compliance further underscored commitment to regulatory standards. Challenges in service availability, particularly in family planning and laboratory services, were identified. Importantly, the implementation of a QI scoring system revealed an overall positive impact, with the average score rising from 69% to 74%, signifying enhanced quality across diverse priority areas. Implications These findings highlight the success of QI interventions in transforming healthcare processes and structural components. Despite notable progress, persistent challenges in specific services call for targeted interventions. The substantial increase in patient satisfaction and overall QI scores underscores the transformative potential of sustained efforts and tailored interventions in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State. Conclusions This research comprehensively evaluates the effectiveness of quality improvement strategies implemented in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State, Nigeria, utilizing the Donabedian Model as a guiding framework. The findings provide valuable insights for policy recommendations, with the aim of aligning healthcare services with the Donabedian model to ensure the provision of high-quality care in mid-level private healthcare facilities in Lagos State. This study contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare quality in Lagos State. Contribution to Knowledge The research provides empirical insights into the effectiveness of quality improvement strategies in mid-level private healthcare facilities, particularly within the context of Lagos State, Nigeria. It highlights the significance of addressing structural components, optimizing healthcare processes, and monitoring healthcare outcomes to enhance the quality of care provided, aligning with the Donabedian model. These findings offer a valuable basis for policy recommendations and further research efforts aimed at improving healthcare quality in similar settings.

Effect of Ultra-Processed Foods Consumption on Sleep Disturbances Among Brazilian Adults’ Population: A Propensity Score Matching Approach

Background Diet, exercise and sleep are three pillars of a healthy life. These lifestyle factors influence one another in complex and dynamic ways. Consistent evidence exists about the bidirectional relationship between sleep patterns and food intake. Objectives We aim to assess the effect of the ultra-processed food(UPF) consumption on sleep disturbances in a sample of the Brazilian adults. Method We analyzed 77,298 persons aged 18 and older from the Brazilian National Health Survey (2019). A Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach was used to address confounding bias and balance the matched exposed and control groups. The population average treatment effect (PATE) and the population average treatment effect on the treated (PATT) were estimated. Also, the Absolute Risk Increase and the Relative Risk Increase were computed. Results The findings revealed that Brazilian adults who consumed UPF experienced small but statistically significant sleep disturbances compared to non-UPF users. Furthermore, salty UPF showed small but significant worsening of sleep compared to sweet UPF users. Conclusion The consumption of UPF is associated with sleep disturbances in Brazilian adults. The consumption of salty UPF had a more significant effect on sleep disorders than sweet UPF in the overall population. However, among individuals who already consumed sweet or salty UPF, these foods had a more significant effect on sleep disorders. To gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between UPF consumption, sleep disorders, and their impact on health and quality of life, further research is needed, including precise measurements and consideration of personality traits using prospective designs.

A Review on Monkey Pox: Role of One Health Approach Against Monkey Pox

The Ortho-poxvirus virus, which causes monkey pox, is a member of the Poxviridae genus. It was initially found in primates. In 1970, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported the first instance of monkey pox. From there, it spread to a number of countries both inside and outside of Africa. There are two genetic varieties of monkey pox, which have been spread to people through respiratory droplets, and touch with objects contaminated by an affected person and consequently is often encountered in work situations. Among the countries with the worst effects are Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Non-human primates, rats, squirrel, and or mice are just a few of the creatures that can become infected by monkey pox. Although the origins of monkey pox infections are unknown, rodents from Africa and non-human primates like monkeys may contain the viruses and infect humans. Monkey pox is more likely to naturally infect rodents. Monkey pox has symptoms and lesions that are difficult to distinguish from smallpox in its clinical manifestations. Fever, chills, migraines, tiredness, tonia, swollen lymph nodes, back pain, and myalgia are some of the clinical symptoms of monkey-pox. A few examples of diagnostic tests include immune-fluorescent antibody assays, enzyme-linked immune-sorbent assays, and real-time polymerase chain reactions. A specialized vaccine that offers complete protection against by them on key-pox virus exists, yet there is no specific therapy for human monkey infection and interaction with the vaccinia virus. Smallpox vaccination can give cross-immunity with partial protection against infection and a reduction in symptom severity. Unfortunately, community health effects in the view of one health approach has not been addressed in vast. Therefore, the objectives of this review paper are to discuss the community health effects of monkey pox and to emphasize the role of one health approach against monkey pox.

GIS Based Approach for Analysis of Habitat Suitability and wildlife conservation for African Buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) at Dhati Welel National Park, Ethiopia

Wildlife management is a crucial issue to maintain the sustainability of an ecosystem whereas habitat suitability analysis is very important for better conservation and management of species like the African Buffalo. Therefore, the effort of this study was to analyze habitat suitability for African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) by employing GIS at Dhati Welel National Park, Ethiopia. The study employed five datasets include: land use land cover (LULC), elevation, slope, settlements, and rivers. In this study, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and weight overlay analysis methods were applied using IDRISI 17 and ArcGIS 10.5 software. Each dataset was integrated using GIS and AHP to rate the individual classes of each factor and weigh the influence of one factor against the other, to determine the weighted contribution of importance to the habitat suitability. As result, the consistency ratio was 0.03 and found with acceptable limits. Then, the weighted overlay tool was applied to calculate the final habitat suitability map of the African Buffalo based on the influence value. The result indicates, 35.3 % (362.7 km2) of the study area was optimal for the African Buffalo habitat. Therefore, according to the results of the finding more areas of Dhati Welel National Park are suitable for the African Buffalo habitat based on the factors employed in this study. So that, this indicates the area is important for conservation from habitat loss and fragmentation.

A General Approach to Modeling Covid-19

The present work shows that it is possible to analytically solve a general model to explain the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. First, the within-host model is described, and later a between-host model, where the coupling between them is the viral load of SARS-CoV-2. The within-host model describes the equations involved in the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2, and also the immune response; while that the between-Host model analyzes the dynamics of virus spread from the original source of contagion associated with bats, subsequently transmitted to a host, and then reaching the reservoir (Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan ), until finally infecting the human population.

A Newer Approach in the Management of Cough: A Review on Levodropropizine

Safe and effective antitussive therapy remains a significant area of unmet need for cough management. Antitussive drugs are commonly used cough suppressants and include centrally acting (opioids and non-opioids) cough suppressants and peripherally acting antitussives. Authors searched PubMed, Google Scholar and additional studies from reference lists via cross-referencing to identify studies assessing levodropropizine for the treatment of cough. Of the 748 studies identified, 13 were included. Recent clinical evidence, guideline recommendations and findings from this review suggest that levodropropizine is a peripheral antitussive which reduces cough intensity, frequency, and nocturnal awakenings in children and adults and provides better efficacy outcomes with a more favourable risk/benefit ratio compared to centrally acting antitussive agents which pose greater safety concerns and present an unacceptable risk–benefit profile. This review is aimed at Indian primary care physicians for making effective cough management decisions where the clinical evidence needs to be translated to clinical practice. Key Messages The usage of currently available centrally acting antitussive agent is greatly limited by their central depressing action and frequent side effect. The findings of this review indicate that levodropropizine is an effective antitussive agent and well tolerated in the management of cough in patients of all ages.

Adopting a Wider Approach for Fisheries Management

Many marine and freshwater fisheries are now in a very poor state, and many fish stocks are close to collapse. There is a need to manage fisheries more carefully, especially since fishing can affect other aspects of the environment. It is also important to reduce the adverse effects of climate changes upon the marine and freshwater environments, fishes, and other animals, and the need to manage other human activities taking place in the sea, to improve the marine environment and protect the wildlife and the fishing activities. Marine pollution, includes human waste materials, chemicals and plastics, and there is also noise and substrate vibration, from industrial and other activities that may affect both the abundance and quality of fishes and other marine animals. This paper deals with fisheries management, and environmental protection, and concludes that fishermen, fisheries scientists, fisheries managers and environmental interests must work closely together, if fishes are to be adequately protected, and fisheries are to be better managed. It describes current systems of management. It especially draws attention to the importance of moving towards an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management. Such an approach aims to manage all those human activities that have an impact upon the marine environment and its life forms.

New Approach in Treatment of Cancer & Viral Infection by Apis Mellifera L Venom Extracts (Honeybees Venom)

Cancer cells need strong drug to be eliminated. Cancer lesions cure could achieve by topical application of crude bee venom. Bee venom medication used to prevent malignancies in groups most at risk (predisposing factors). Bee venom crosses the blood brain barriers because its components are very small. However, Bee venom contraindicated administered by intravenous injection because it’s hemolytic substance, mellitin which is powerful anticoagulant. However, the cationic peptides mellitin govern the mode of action of bee venom as anticancer and antiviral in vivo; 1 there is a negative charge on cancer cells, viral infected cells, diseased cells, and generally any cells that contain toxins or damage, and viruses are carrying negative charge even when it is outside the living body. 2Bee venom component (melittin) carries a positive charge, it destruct negatively charged cancer cells. 3 The role that the herpes virus is likely to play in increasing the severity of cancerous diseases, worsen the conditions: herpes viruses are opportunistic viruses that strike the body whose immunity is weakened for any reason. Therefore, the role of herpes virus must be neutralized when you planning to treat a cancer patient. Fortunately, bee venom is a powerful antiviral, and thus we hit three birds with one stone, that is, we kill cancer cells, kill opportunistic viruses, and improve tissue immunity to participate in the fight against cancer and get rid of toxic exudates more efficiently.

Pericardiocentesis Procedure: Anatomical Structures and Approaches

Knowledge of accurate surface anatomy is essential for safe clinical practice. Different views and opinions for clinically important surface markings exist between clinicians. Pericardiocentesis is performed as an emergency procedure in conditions aggravating cardiac tamponade. The approach of pericardiocentesis should be held by the hands of an experienced operator because of the surrounding relations. Nowadays, the introduction of imaging-guided procedures, especially echo-guided procedures, has significantly improved the safety and feasibility of pericardiocentesis and has provided the possibility of choosing the best anatomical approach among the apical, subcostal and parasternal approaches. This case report also emphasizes the importance of instillation of agitated saline as a supplementary technique while performing echo-guided pericardiocentesis in order to reduce the likelihood of cardiac chamber perforations.

Interviews in Healthcare: A Phenomenological Approach A Qualitative Research Methodology

Phenomenology is a ritual of Qualitative research methodology. Interviews in healthcare enables researchers to recognise and understand data from lived experiences of the participants by using Phenomenological approach. The purpose of this article is to review the various face to face in depth interviews conducted using Husserl’s descriptive, Heidegger’s interpretive phenomenology or Hermeneutic phenomenological approach in healthcare. The in-depth interview will help to understand the health issues and ethical issues faced by participants. Methodology Four articles were selected based on phenomenological approach. Article.1 was based on Hermeneutic Phenomenology approach. In this study thirteen women were taken as sample. Sampling was done by snowball method. The women were asked to share their rural maternity experience. Data was analyzed without any influence of the researcher. Article.2 was based on Transcendental phenomenology. There were 15 students from 4 different cultural background belonging to different health professional programmes like nursing, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and physical therapy. Triangulation methods were used and semi structured interviews were conducted, recorded and transcribed. Health professional students shared their lived experience with patients. Article.3 was based on a study conducted using both Transcendental phenomenology for patients interviews and Hermeneutic phenomenology for healthcare professionals’ interviews. The semi structured interview of patient was taken to understand and record their lived experience with the medication without any bias or interpretation and data received was bracketed. The healthcare professionals’ interviews were conducted on Hermeneutic strategy regarding the medications they prescribe for life threatening illnesses. Article 4 was based on Hermeneutic phenomenological approach. There were nine patients selected and in depth semi-structured interviews were conducted. The patients shared their experience of living with a life limiting illness.  

To What Extent is it Possible to Respect the Principle of Autonomy in Pandemic Times? A New Approach to Bioethical Principles

Based on two fictitious cases of disregard for the rules to prevent the spread of Sars-Cov-2 in which individuals claim that their autonomy has been disrespected, in Brazil, the authors ask to what extent individual autonomy must be strictly respected and propose a new approach to the bioethics principles, so that they are applied with a view to public health and the common good.

The Multi Sectorial Approach to COVID-19 Pandemic in Limited-Resource Settings: Discussing Rwandan Experience

COVID-19 has unprecedentedly shaken the health systems across the globe. Rwanda, a low-income country in East Africa, has succeeded to contain the first wave but is struggling to curb the second wave in the wait for a massive vaccination program. The national committee composed of different ministries and a COVID-19 Joint Task Force was established as a Multi-sectoral approach in the early days of the pandemic. The approach together with transparent communication to the population has been effective. However, much more tailored and cost-effective measures against the drivers of cluster outbreaks are needed to save both the economy and more lives. It is challenging to produce evidence about behaviors attributable to the surge of infections, and their hardship, and how to allow the population to live their lives with less risk. With important research, policymakers will be able to think locally and provide easy and inexpensive recommended behaviors while awaiting the vaccine.

Cell Therapy as an Alternative approach for COVID-19 Infection Consequences: A Non-Systematic Review

The current uncontrollable outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has unleashed severe global consequences in all aspects of life and society, bringing the whole world to a complete halt and has modeled significant threats to the global economy. The COVID-19 infection manifests with flu-like symptoms such as cough, cold, and fever resulting in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), lung dysfunction, and other systemic complications in critical patients are creating panic across the globe. However, the licensed vaccine has started to show up; some resulted in side effects that would limit its possibility in some circumstances as allergic personnel, for example. Moreover, the production and approval of new drugs is a very complicated process and takes a long time. On the other hand, stem cells have gone the extra mile and intensively investigated at preclinical and clinical studies in various degenerative diseases, including infectious ones. Stem cells are proposed as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent, which may suppress the exaggerated immune response and promote endogenous repair by enhancing COVID-19 infected lung microenvironment. Also, stem cells have different application manners, either direct transplantation, exosome transplantation, or drug delivery of specific cytokines or nanoparticles with antiviral property by engineering stem cells. This review discusses and summarizes the possible emerging role of cell-based therapy, especially stem cell therapy, as an alternative promising therapeutic option for the treatment and control of novel COVID-19 and its potential role in tissue rejuvenation after COVID-19 infection.

Assessment of Body Size by Structural Equation Model Using Anthropometric Traits of Fishermen Community: A Methodological Approach

Objectives Aim of the study was to develop a ‘composite body size score’ (CBSS) using anthropometric traits to estimate body size and to assess the nutritional status of each study individual on the basis of CBSS. Materials and Methods Data on seventeen anthropometric traits were collected from 710 individuals (Male, Female) from fishermen community inhabiting coastal villages of West Bengal, India. For estimating body sizes, Structural Equation Model (SEM) was constructed with Path Analysis (PA). Later, second order Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was applied on SEM to determine CBSS. It was hypothesized in the models that CBSS is composed with three sets of latent variables viz., linear, circular and skinfold, constructed from anthropometric traits. Applying new derived optimal cut off points of CBSS was used to determine lean, normal and robust body sizes. Individuals with negative values of CBSS were categorised as lean body size,. Positive values of CBSS were categorised into two categories- normal and robust body size. Results On the basis of CBSS, result showed that 50.6%, 48.8% and 0.6% of the individuals were categorised under lean, normal and robust body size respectively. Females showed relatively higher percent of lean body size i.e. under nutrition (73.8%) compared to males (26.2%). Conclusion The hypothesized model estimate more accurate composite body size score, based on anthropometric traits. All the traits are highly significant on the model. The lean body size category can be use in predicting ‘Undernutrition’.

GATES/GEB as the Best Thermodynamic Approach to Electrolytic Redox Systems - a Review

The Generalized Approach To Electrolytic Systems (GATES) provides the best possible thermodynamic formulation of redox and non-redox, equilibrium and metastable, mono-, two- and three-phase systems, with all attainable/pre-selected physicochemical knowledge involved, without any simplifying assumptions made for calculation purposes, where different species may occur in batch or dynamic systems, of any degree of complexity. The Generalized Electron Balance (GEB) is the key concept completing the set of algebraic balances referred to redox systems, described according to GATES/GEB ⊂ GATES principles. The GEB, considered as the law of Nature, is fully compatible with charge and concentration balances, and relations for the corresponding equilibrium constants. Within GATES, the electrolytic systems are resolvable with use of MATLAB, or other iterative computer programs, if all necessary physicochemical knowledge is attainable.

Sustainable Urban Development – Conceptual Approach

Urbanism and urbanization is a complex term in as much as that it is highly diversified in terms of culture, traditions, religion, social behavior and life, size and capacity, supporting infrastructure, governance, administration, planning approach, trade, so on and so forth. The present scenario is highly sophisticated and alarming in the context of growing and continuous expansion of the urbanization world over leading to associated problems and pose threats to social, environmental, and economic. An effort has been made by the authors of the present paper to conceptualize the parameters for environmental sustainability in urban development.

New Approaches in the Treatment of Covid-19 Virus

By increase the incidence of infection of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), diagnostic factors for early identification of high-risk individuals are important. On the other hand, more infections are in older patient, comorbidities, and male patients. Identification of components that related to severity of COVID-19 contributed to ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes, which are critical for viral infection. It was found that adding enzyme copy, hrsACE2, lures the virus to attach itself to it instead of the actual cells… It inhibits the virus from infecting the cells in the lungs and other organs.

Laboratory Tests Used in the Diagnosis of Immune Thrombocytopenia and General Treatment Approaches

Immune thrombocytopenia currently called under its’ new name, immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disease characterized by thrombocytopenia, in which the body attacks its own platelets due to the disorders in immune system. The pathophysiology of this disease includes increased platelet destruction and most megakaryocyte production in bone marrow. The most common clinical manifestation of ITP is mild or severe progressive bleeding that could result in death. ITP is generally named as primary or secondary ITP according to thrombocytopenia severity, disease duration, bleeding status and secondary occurrence of the disease. Currently for diagnosis, despite the blood count, antiglobulin test and laboratory tests that can detect platelet-bound antibodies, they are not enough for definitive diagnosis. Like the difficulty in diagnosis, ITP treatment is quite complicated which varies depending on age, characteristics and risk of the patient. It is classified as first, second and third-line treatment options. Also, depending on the condition of patients, combined treatment might be an option which increases the complexity of the treatment. Unfortunately, discussions related to different clinical applications in diagnosis and treatments continue recently. For this reason, we considered that preparation of a review containing recent updates in diagnostic approaches and treatment options in ITP will be remarkable and beneficial for physicians interested in this subject. 

A Qualitative Assessment of an Innovative Suicide Prevention and Treatment Approach: Contextual-Conceptual Therapy

Mental health and mental illness is a critical to a person’s overall health. In the United States alone, mental illness effects one in six adults. Furthermore, 40% of those individuals who die of suicide have been diagnosed with a mental health condition or illness. Yet, there is a paucity of research on innovative methods that help prevent suicide. The Contextual-Conceptual Therapy (CCT) approach introduces an innovative way to treat suicide by working to uncover the strengths of the suicidal person and addressing a person’s true self. The CCT approach was developed over the course of 25 years working with more than 16,000 suicidal patients in Seattle, Washington, and is tailored specifically for primary and secondary prevention of suicide. While there has been anecdotal evidence of the effectiveness of the CCT program, the program has yet to be formally evaluated. This qualitative research study aims to understand the impact the CCT approach has had on its clients. Eleven former CCT clients were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Outcomes described by participants included an increase in curiosity and self-efficacy as a means through which to decrease suicide ideation and behavior, and proved to be incredibly powerful in changing long-term outcomes. This qualitative study is a first-step in providing critical insight on suicide prevention for wider dissemination. At a time when adverse mental health and illness is impacting the lives of millions of people, the CCT approach has the potential to address suicide, mental illness and mental health across diverse populations.

RETRACTED: Monte Carlo Approach To Genotype By Environment Interaction Models

This article has been retracted on 10 February 2021. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-25-5847) Understanding the implication of Genotype-by-Environment (GXE) interaction structure is an important consideration in plant breeding programs. Traditional statistical analyses of yield trials provide little or no insight into the particular pattern or structure of the GXE interaction. In this study, efforts were made to solve these problems under different level of data occurrence. We employed the simulation process of Monte Carlo in generating since use of a real-life data may pose a serious difficulty. In this paper, we simulated for two data Types of Balance and Unbalance designs with different Levels of generations (3X3, 7X7, 10X10, and 3X7, 7X3, 7X10, 10X7 , , respectively). We therefore check the performance of GXE interaction on four different models (AMMI, FW, GGE and Mixed model), and also their stability and adaptability. The findings revealed that, when the assumption was maintained, AMMI outperformed Finlay-Wilkinson model, GGE Biplot model and Mixed model.

Retraction Note: Monte Carlo Approach To Genotype By Environment Interaction Models

Neuroscience Theories, Hypothesis and Approaches to ASD Physiopathology. A Review

According to the results of our laboratory the theory of immune dysfunction, the theory on the genetic architecture of ASD, the disrupted cortical connectivity theory and the theory on the contribution of cerebellum to ASD have shown fundamental experimental evidences to support the core symptoms of the complex and enigmatic physiopathology of autism spectrum disorder. The additional hypothesis about the neurogenesis in the amygdala, the contribution of oxytocin, vasopressin, the mirror neuron network, and mitochondrial dysfunction described are stimulating and interesting approaches that deserve further systematic basic and clinical neuroscience research.

Allele Based Inference on Evolution and Extinction; A Genetic Drift Approach

In other to present a series of stochastic models from population dynamics capable of describing rudimentary aspects of genetic evolution, we studied two-allele Wright–Fisher and the Moran models for evolution of the relative frequencies of two alleles at a diploid locus under random genetic drift in a population of fixed size “simplest form, selection, and random mutation”. Principal results were presented in qualitative terms, illustrated by Monte Carlo simulations from R and http://www.radford.edu/~rsheehy/Gen_flash/popgen. Moran and the Wright-Fisher Models exhibited the same fixation probabilities, only that the Moran model runs twice as fast as the Wright-Fisher Model. A clue that can help us to understand this result is provided by the variance in reproductive success in the two models. Genetic changes due to drift were neither directional nor predictable in any deterministic way. Nonetheless, genetic drift led to evolutionary change in the absence of mutation (P=0.5), natural selection or gene flow. In general, alleles drift to fixation is significantly faster in smaller populations. Probability of fixation of an allele A was approximately equivalent to the initial frequency of that allele. With the inclusion of selection in our model, probability of fixation of a favoured allele due to natural selection increased with increase in fitness advantage and population size. The time taken to reach fixation is much slower, in case of no selective advantage, than a fixation under mutation with selective advantage.

Construction of Virtual Neuron and Consolidation of Sleep and Memory Process– A Molecular Docking and Biomathematical Approach

This methods paper combines molecular docking and biomathematical modeling to construct a virtual neuron framework for studying sleep‑related memory consolidation. It outlines model components and validation approach.

Socket Shield Technique - A New Approach of Immediate Implant Articles Review

Dental implant restoration is challenging procedure when it involve the esthetics zone, and since implant dentistry is prosthodontically driven procedure, care were practice in restoration of missing teeth in esthetics area which will fulfill the objective. Extraction of teeth leave buccal plate bone unsupported and decrease the blood supply and since this plate is very thin resorption will be expected. Different attempt was done in order to prevent this sequence and create natural emergence profile around dental implant prosthesis. Socket preservation procedures were introduced, however in case of ridge deficiencies, hard and soft tissue augmentation procedures are indicated. Socket shield technique meets the demands of minimal invasion, tissue preservation, and no need of bone substitute materials. And can be applied not only for maintaining buccal contour of an edentulous ridge but also for keeping the inter-implant soft and hard tissue In this review paper we present different articles and case report using socket shield technique as treatment protocols and try to explore different protocol are practice in order to achieve high treatment out come with optimal success.

The Current Immunoassays and Emerging Immunogenomic Approaches for Immunomonitoring Cancer and Infectious Diseases

As remarkable advances have been made in immunotherapies, the overall goal of immunotherapy has become the selection of patients and evaluating the benefits of treatment. One of the major obstacles to develop immunotherapies is the lack of effective immune monitoring. Monitoring of key changes in the immune system during immunotherapy (immunomonitoring) provides important insights into efficacy as well as the immune mechanisms of response at the molecular and cellular levels. Immunomonitoring techniques include traditional immunoassays that use specific antibodies to recognize the analytes of interest, new high-throughput immunoassays that target immune cells and nucleic acids, and less classical immunogenomic approaches that rely on genome-wide profiling and computational analysis on various types of clinical samples. Substantial progress has been made in the application of immunomonitoring strategies to pre-clinical and clinical studies, especially for patients with cancer and infectious diseases. Current and emerging immunoassays performed in clinical practice will be examined herein, and immunogenomic approaches that complement these techniques will be highlighted and compared with traditional methods. Finally, we will discuss several new computational methods for analyzing gene signatures for immunomonitoring, including gene expression data profiling by microarray, the nCounter technique, regular RNA-seq, and single-cell RNA-seq. Novel immunomonitoring techniques, especially immunogenomic approaches, will continue to be developed to facilitate assessment of immunotherapeutic response and predict patient outcomes in cancer and infectious disease.  

Lignocellulosic Waste as a Sole Substrate for Production of Crude Cellulase from Bacillus subtilis PJK6 Under Solid State Fermentation Using Statistical Approach

The agricultural organic wastes pose major environmental issues and their inappropriate disposal is a major cause of pollution while these as cheap lignocellulosic resources can be utilized for many value added products such as enzymes. The purpose of the present study was to utilize wheat bran as a sole substrate for enhanced cellulase production under submerged fermentation (SMF) or solid state fermentation (SSF) and optimize the various process variables involved in the selected fermentation type. In order to achieve high titer of cellulase, a central composite design (CCD) was constructed and performed for optimization of SSF with five process variables at five coded levels. A 25 full factorial design was constructed leading to a set of 50 experiments that were performed in triplicates. The key variables namely incubation time, temperature, wheat bran and tap water ratio, pH and inoculum size were evaluated. The optimization of the process variables resulted in 1.14 IU/ml of cellulase activity from Bacillus subtilis PJK6 under SSF using wheat bran as a sole organic substrate with tap water. The optimum conditions included incubation time- 72 h, temperature- 45oC, pH- 6, inoculum size- 14% with 1:4 as wheat bran and tap water ratio. The production of cellulase using only moistened wheat bran was demonstrated and found to be significantly controlled by incubation time and temperature while pH showed the least effect. The economic production of valuable and useful enzyme using agricultural residue was achieved at moderate conditions from a GRAS microbe that can benefit the industry as well as the environment.

Graphical Approach to Compare Concentration Constants of Hill and Michaelis-Menten Equations

The aim of present study was to describe the graphical technique how to go from Hill concentration constant to Michaelis constant. To compare enzymatic processes, the kinetics of which is subjected to different regularities, it is possible to use constants that characterize catalytic activity (Vmax) and concentration constants that are the substrate concentration at which the rate of the enzymatic process is equal to a half of maximum permissible rate. Concentration constants are S0.5 for Hill equation and Km for Michaelis-Menton equation. The graphical approach was proposed in order to go from concentration constant of Hill equation to Michaelis concentration of the process that could be characterized by the same catalytic activity (the same values of minimum and maximum rates) similar to that observed in the process described by Hill equation.

A New Spectrofluorimetric Approach for The Quantitation of Imipramine Hcl in Commercial Dosage Forms

A spectrofluorimetric method has been developed for the determination of imipramine HCl in bulk and commercial dosage forms. The method was based on measuring the fluorescence emission intensity of imipramine-eosin Y ion pair complex (λem = 558 and λex = 319) in dichloroethane at buffer solution (sodium acetate and acetic acid) of pH 4.8. The stoichiometric ratio between imipramine and eosin Y was studied by Job's method of continuous variations and found to be 2:1. Formation constant (Kf) and Gibb’s free energy change (ΔG) were calculated and pointed towards the spontaneous nature of the reaction. A series of variables were studied to optimize the reaction conditions. The proposed method was validated as per ICH guidelines and successfully applied for the determination of active imipramine HCl in commercial dosage forms with high degree of accuracy and precision.

Analyzing Students’ Opinions about their Learning Environments and Study Approaches with Bayesian Modeling

Our own long term experiences as clinical teachers among undergraduate medical students have generated the interest to investigate the plausible connection between students’ study orientation and their learning experiences in small groups.The objective of the study was to assess the hypothesis whether learning in small groups may contribute to study motivation. Participants were 52 undergraduate medical students (10-12 in each group) in the primary health care course between 1st and 5th year during the spring term 2012. The questionnaires used were the Inventory of General studies (IGSO) for study orientation and IQ questionnaire for group learning. The data were analyzed by Bayesian network modeling. In this study, the application used was the Bayminer (www.BayMiner.com) non-linear visualization modeling software. Positive atmosphere in a small group increases study motivation and commitment and predicts mutual trust and gives space to new ideas, where contradictive views can raise interesting discussions. Based on Bayesian modeling it seems that the experience of motivational problems in the present studies may be an indicator of study alienation and connected with the perception of small group dysfunctionality.

Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells as a Source of Odontoblasts: a GMP-compliant Approach

Stem cell-based regenerative therapy can be considered an innovative approach for curing dental caries. Pulp stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHEDs) represent a source of committed cells for generating odontoblasts in vitro; however, SHEDs are not easy to obtain and are limited in quantity. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are considered to be adult stem cells that can be easily obtained in large numbers. Here, SHEDs and UC-MSCs were conditioned in custom-made serum-free culture media in order to induce differentiation towards odontoblasts. SHEDs and UC-MSCs were expanded in vitro and differentiated into odontoblasts for 21 days using a medium containing transforming growth factor-β (TGF-b3), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5). The ability to induce odontoblast differentiation with a straightforward clinical protocol in compliance with good manufactoring practice (GMP), which avoids animal reagents, and uses unrelated stem cells of unrestricted availability, may be a first step towards a new innovative approach for dentin regeneration.

Maxillary Constriction with Skeletal Class II Malocclusion - A Comprehensive Treatment Approach.

This case report reiterates the fact that a bilateral posterior crossbite with severe skeletal class II malocclusion in the growth period could be effectively treated by a comprehensive approach with a rapid palatal expansion appliance followed by fixed appliance therapy. A 14-year-old boy presented with a severe skeletal Class II malocclusion with an orthognathic maxilla, retrognathic mandible and a high mandibular plane angle with an Angles’ Class II division 1 subdivision malocclusion with maxillary constriction, increased overjet, deep bite and severe crowding of maxillary and mandibular incisors. A banded rapid palatal expansion appliance was initially given to correct the bilateral posterior cross bite and subsequently maxillary and mandibular first premolars were extracted and Roths’ Pre adjusted edgewise appliance therapy (0.022 x 0.28-inch slot) was strapped up to correct the severe tooth size-arch length discrepancy. The patient’s soft tissue profile and dentofacial esthetics improved dramatically with increased self-confidence and enthused self-esteem.

Exploring the use of an iPhone App: A Novel Approach to Dietary Assessment

Recent advancements in smartphone technology have provided new methods of dietary assessment. An iTunes application (app) called Meal Snap lets users take pictures of the meal they eat, and then estimates the calories of the food items eaten. We conducted a pilot study to explore the user-friendliness and calorie estimation functions of the Meal Snap app. Two female nutrition graduate students pilot-tested the Meal Snap app. Using the app, each student took pictures of foods and drinks consumed daily for two weeks. The data were analyzed using the Nutritionist ProTM software, version 4.4.0. The mean daily caloric intake obtained from the Meal Snap was then compared with that of Nutritionist ProTM. Paired samples t-tests and correlations were carried out using SPSS, version 19.Results indicated there was no significant difference in mean daily caloric consumption between Meal Snap and Nutritionist ProTM (p= 0.706). Additionally, there was a significant correlation between Meal Snap and Nutritionist ProTM calorie counts (Spearman r= 0.625, p< 0.001). It took about 35 minutes per week (or 5 minutes/day) to snap pictures and edit descriptions, whereas entering data for calorie analysis with Nutritionist ProTM took about 85-90 minutes per week (about 13 minutes/day).Findings suggest that Meal Snap may be a user-friendly tool to estimate dietary intake. Future research should include a larger sample and people of diverse ethnic backgrounds, dietary habits and age groups.

A Multidisciplinary Approach in The Diagnosis of Allergic and Non-Allergic Respiratory Diseases: Nasal Cytology and Feno.

Upper and lower airway disease is a common condition. Its prevalence is increasing in different areas of the world, but, at present, non-allergic rhinitis is underestimated. The aim of this study was to investigate FeNO (fractional exhaled nitric oxide) and nasal cytology in allergic and non-allergic patients, in order to reach a correct diagnosis. This study was performed on 120 children with rhinitis and/or asthma, evaluated by an allergist and an otolaryngologist. Skin prick-test and nasal cytology were tested in all patients; FeNO only in the asthmatic ones. The proportion of positive results in nasal cytology was higher in non-allergic than in allergic children: 22 out of 23 patients, vs 91 out of 97 patients. A significant correlation was found between FeNO levels and increase in nasal eosinophil counts. There is compelling evidence of a close relationship between upper and lower airway in asthma and rhinitis. The presence of rhinitis should always be investigated in children with asthma; therefore, FeNO and nasal cytology have clinical benefit both in allergic and non-allergic children. Our finding also supports the use of nasal cytology to evaluate non-allergic rhinitis (NAR).

MicroRNA Profiling of Differentiated, Poorly Differentiated and Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma, a Comparative Approach

Thyroid carcinomas encompass a wide spectrum ranging from differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) to poorly differentiated (PDC) and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC). DTC of both follicular (FTC) and papillary (PTC) types can progress to PDC and AC. The aim of our study was to evaluate if there is differential microRNA (miRNA) expression in various tumor subtypes during this progression. The miRNA profile of differentiated carcinomas (Follicular and Papillary) and ATC were compared with that of PDCs either by itself or in a background of differentiated carcinomas and anaplastic carcinomas. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that FTC and PDC tend to cluster together in the absence of ATC. Interestingly, in cases with presence of all components i.e. FTC, PDC and ATC, the miRNA profile of poorly differentiated component clusters with that of the Anaplastic carcinoma component. miR-494 and miR-125a-5p were found to be differentially regulated in tumors with an anaplastic component and even the well-differentiated component (FTC) of these tumors were found to be aligned with the anaplastic profile. In addition, we also discovered some differentially regulated miRNAs in follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma as compared to follicular thyroid carcinoma (miR-486-5p and miR-31).

Targeting Cell Metabolism in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL); Aviable Therapeutic Approach?

Targeting cell metabolism is a therapeutic approach which has been used for the treatment of cancers with high levels of proliferation. Inhibition of metabolic processes in cancer cells has shown synergy with current therapeutic options to reduce refractory disease and relapse. In contrast, chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a disease where expansion of the malignant clone results from a combination of enhanced cell survival coupled with low level proliferation. The purpose of this article is to highlight how further research is needed to determine whether targeting cell metabolism may be a viable therapeutic strategy in this disease. We discuss how lymphocyte doubling time (LDT) remains a robust prognostic indicator used in the current clinical management of CLL, and how recognition of CLL as a proliferative disease has led to a greater understanding of the importance of energy-generating processes in its pathobiology. We summarize what is currently known about normal B cell metabolism and consider whether there is evidence of the Warburg effect in CLL cells. Finally, we speculate on how CLL cells may exploit protective mechanisms such as autophagy during times of metabolic stress and how they might influence or be influenced by metabolic characteristics of the microenvironment.

Evaluation of Recruitment Approaches for the HPTN 052 Clinical Trial of HIV Serodiscordant Couples in Rural Western Kenya

Recruitment of couples is important for study success. The multi-centered HPTN 052 clinical trial was designed to evaluate whether immediate versus delayed use of ART by HIV-infected individuals would reduce transmission of HIV to their HIV-uninfected partners. The objective of this study was to retrospectively compare several approaches for community recruitment at our site in Kisumu, Kenya based on a) feedback from recruitment staff, b) associated cost, and c) number of eligible couples enrolled. A secondary objective was to assess the discordant couples’ acceptability of the community recruitment approaches relative to the a) main recruitment venues, b) educational materials, and c) local language best suited for explaining the trial. 241 couples were screened for eligibility using nine recruitment approaches. We compared the approaches used for the 60 couples found to be eligible to those used for the 56 ineligible couples for whom that information was available. Analyses for association were carried out. In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 staff and 29 discordant couples. Records were kept of the costs associated with each approach. Overall, staff interviews revealed that acceptability of the approaches was high. Challenges were present with all approaches ranging from one member of the couple not wanting to reveal their positive HIV status to their partner (Patient Support Center or PSC approach), to not finding people at home (home based counseling and testing or HBCT approach). The PSC and the HBCT recruitment approaches were the most effective in terms of recruiting eligible participants. There was an overall significant difference between the proportion of eligible and ineligible participants among the 9 approaches (χ2 (8) =33.5; p<0.0001). Analyses for association showed that the PSC approach resulted in attracting a greater proportion of couples who were eligible than ineligible (χ2 (1) =6.6; p=0.016). The cost for the PSC approach was less than one-third that of the HBCT approach. All discordant couples interviewed found the two main recruitment venues (PSC and their home) acceptable. Among couples who saw the educational materials, the majority found them useful (poster 72.7%; pamphlet 90.9%; flyer 88.9%). All couples found the language they were told about the study acceptable. The evaluation of recruitment approaches indicated that working with local partners, specifically the PSC staff and HBCT staff, was the most effective way to recruit eligible discordant couples. A focus on collaborations and partnerships between research and clinical organizations will help study recruitment efforts. Disclaimer: The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of their respective institutions. Funding for this substudy was provided by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Implementing Evidence-Based Occupational Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation: Exploring Knowledge on Barriers, Facilitators and Strategies

Background A persistent gap remains between evidence-based health care and its application in routine practice. This challenge is particularly prominent in allied health professions like occupational therapy (OT), where interventions are complex, individualized and centred on patients' daily functioning. Objective To identify barriers, facilitators, and implementation strategies for integrating evidence-based OT interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation. Methods A mapping review was conducted using searches in five databases. Eligible studies included adults with MS, examined OT interventions, and reported on factors influencing implementation. Data were extracted and categorized using Grol’s framework for barriers/facilitators and Mazza’s taxonomy for implementation strategies. Results Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Barriers and facilitators were identified at multiple levels of Grol’s framework: 1-Innovation-level: accessibility, feasibility, and perceived attractiveness supported implementation, particularly when interventions incorporated holistic approaches, gamification, or printed manuals. 2-Professional-level: therapists’ competencies and alignment between interventions and patients’ priorities. 3-Patient-related: facilitators included motivation, readiness to change, and peer support, whereas fatigue, pain, and cognitive challenges served as barriers. 4-Social and organizational: effective teamwork, resource availability, and flexible scheduling facilitated successful adoption. 5-Economic or political: no studies. Implementation strategies focused on using manuals, patient empowerment, gamification, and organizational supports. No financial or structural policy-level strategies were identified. Conclusion Successful implementation of evidence-based OT for MS requires multifaceted, context-sensitive strategies addressing innovation, professional, patient, and organizational determinants. Practical approaches enhance uptake, while substantial gaps persist at economic and policy levels. Strengthening these areas may improve longterm integration and sustainability of evidence-based OT in MS rehabilitation.

Secondary Hip Fractures among Aging Adults with a Previous Hip Fracture History: Cumulative 50 Year Overview, Analysis, and Possible Antidote as Observed from 1974-2026 Data Sources

Hip fractures, which remain an immense public health concern, have been subject to study and prevention efforts for many decades, but with limited success in averting either incident, second or subsequent hip fractures, commonly attributed to a combination of age related proclivity to fall, low bone and muscle mass. This review examines second hip fracture incidence rates and determinants of this serious functionally debilitating injury as observed over time remains a current 2026 public health concern. It specifically explores if more preventive efforts are currently warranted in this regard, and in what respect, if indeed, more frail older adults are living longer, but may be in excessively poor health, fearful of moving or falling, malnourished, weak with poor balance, or depressed. Based on what is published, it is concluded 1) second hip fracture incidence rates remain considerable, especially among those who are frail with osteoporotic bone disease, poor vision, heart/or cognitive conditions, plus those with muscle deficits of the lower limb, live alone and have a falls history; 2) studies to identify possible mitigation approaches appear promising in this regard, along with more routine efforts to minimize falls risk and bone attrition.

High-Throughput Complex Disease Modeling for Ethical Drug Discovery: Clinical Relevance of a NAM Platform for Cancer Biomarker Development

The development of tumor biomarkers derived from blood, or its components, has become pivotal in advancing early cancer diagnosis. Malignant transformations induce cancer-specific alterations in the transcriptome, proteome, and secretome of tumor cells. Recent studies highlighted similar alterations in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in cancer patients, which appear to mirror the state of transformation in tumor cells. These findings suggest an intercellular communication–driven mechanism rather than a systemic inflammatory response and, in addition to current ctDNA-based liquid biopsy biomarkers, point to a novel, simple, and highly robust approach for the early detection of cancer. Using this phenomenon to advance PBMC-based biomarker development, it will be essential to achieve 3D in vitro tumor models that reproduce a highly physiological tumor microenvironment (TME). Likewise, more enhanced 3D ex vivo models are required to enable the replication of cell-to-cell and organ-to-organ communication. These systems will guide the self-organization of mixed microenvironments derived from different tissues and enable them to accurately reproduce the molecular connections underlying these alterations. In this study, an innovative new modular 3D co-culturing approach was used to expose PBMCs to lung tumoroids, under physiologically relevant conditions. Changes in DNA fragmentation of PBMCs in the presence of lung cancer were quantified and used as a biomarker. To validate the predictiveness of this biomarker, our results were compared with clinical data from a clinical evaluation study. Similar to the clinical trial observations, PBMCs, when exposed to lung tumoroids, showed a significantly lower level of DNA fragmentation (37%). This modular 3D co-culturing model showed a predictiveness of the clinical data of > 90%, demonstrating its power to monitoring cell-to-cell communication effects and support the development of blood-based biomarkers.

Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB) on Sleep Quality Improvement: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Introduction Sleep quality is a fundamental determinant of human health and well-being. Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB), a non-invasive therapeutic modality, has emerged as a potential intervention for sleep-related disturbances. Proposed mechanisms include reduced blood viscosity and platelet aggregation, activation of superoxide dismutase, increased oxygen bioavailability, enhanced microcirculation, elevated serotonin levels, and decreased cortisol concentrations—physiological processes intricately involved in sleep regulation, mood modulation, and the stress response. Objective To evaluate the effects of Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood (ILIB) on sleep quality in individuals with self-reported sleep disturbances. Methods A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with participants who reported poor sleep quality. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the intervention group received ILIB using a 660 nm red laser, while the control group received a placebo treatment (light emission with sub-therapeutic power, <1 mW). Both groups underwent the same treatment schedule. Sleep quality was assessed at baseline and after six treatment sessions using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Results Participants in the ILIB group showed statistically significant improvements in the primary outcome of global sleep quality. PSQI scores decreased from 10.24 at baseline to 6.47 post-treatment. ESS scores showed a non-significant change from 10.44 to 10.12. These results suggest enhanced overall sleep quality and reduced sleep latency, although the observed reduction in daytime sleepiness did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion Modified Intravascular Laser Irradiation of Blood appears to be a promising non-invasive approach for improving sleep quality. The clinical outcomes observed are comparable to those reported in both pharmacological and behavioral sleep interventions, particularly in terms of PSQI improvements. These preliminary findings support the need for further research to clarifyunderlying mechanisms, optimize treatment parameters (e.g., dosimetry and duration), and expand outcome assessments to include biomarkers and polysomnographic data.

Efficacy and Safety of Pulsed Magnetic Therapy in Sleep related Disorders: A Remote, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background/Aim Sleep disturbances are common and are associated with impaired daytime functioning, reduced quality of life, and increased health risks. Non-pharmacological neuromodulatory interventions have gained interest as alternatives to hypnotic medication. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has been proposed as a non-invasive approach to improve sleep quality and recovery, but evidence from large, well-controlled trials remains limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pulsed magnetic field therapy (PMT) on sleep quality, sleep-related symptoms, daytime functioning, and well-being in adults with heterogeneous sleep complaints.  Materials and Methods In this remote, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 217 adults reporting non-restorative sleep, difficulties initiating sleep, or frequent nocturnal awakenings were assigned to active PMT using a PEMF device (Night Harmony Female/Male protocol) or a sham application for three weeks. Primary outcomes were changes in the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) global score and self-rated sleep satisfaction, restfulness, and sleep initiation difficulties. Secondary outcomes included sleep diary measures, daytime functioning, well-being (WHO-5), symptom burden (MYMOP), and daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale). Analyses followed the intention-to-treat principle using ANCOVA with baseline values of the respective parameter as covariate.  Results Both groups showed significant improvements over time in global sleep quality and most secondary outcomes (p < 0.001). Between-group differences in PSQI global score were not significant (p = 0.314). However, active PMT resulted in significantly greater improvements in subjective sleep satisfaction (p = 0.02) and restfulness (p = 0.02), particularly among participants with moderate to severe baseline sleep disturbances (p < 0.001 for both). Sleep continuity measures improved similarly in both groups. No serious adverse events were reported.  Conclusions PMT produced modest but significant improvements in subjective restorative aspects of sleep beyond placebo effects and was well tolerated. Further studies using objective sleep measures and longer follow-up are warranted.

Diabetic Foot and Leg Ulcer & Peri-wound Neuropathy Healing Feasibility Studies

Diabetic foot and leg ulcers represent a significant global health burden and are frequently associated with peripheral neuropathy, vascular compromise, infection, and high rates of recurrence and amputation. Standard wound care often fails to achieve healing in chronic cases due to unaddressed underlying neuropathic and vascular pathology. This feasibility study evaluated the Hemastyl™ System in patients with long-standing diabetic foot and leg ulcers that had failed standard care and, in many cases, had been diagnosed for amputation. Two prospective feasibility cohorts comprising 39 chronic infected diabetic wounds were treated with the Hemastyl™ System. Outcomes included rapid microbe reduction, high wound closure rates, subjective improvement in neuropathy-related symptoms, and avoidance of amputation in all amputation-diagnosed cases. These findings suggest that targeting neuropathy, vasculature, and microbial burden concurrently may offer a promising approach for healing complex chronic wounds in high-risk populations.

Conjunctival Resection for Mooren's Ulcer Refractory to Medical Therapy: A Case Report

Purpose To report a rare case of Mooren’s ulcer in a healthy young male without systemic autoimmune disease, and to highlight the effectiveness of conjunctival resection as therapy for cases unresponsive to medical management. Case report A 34-year-old immunocompetent male presented with progressive peripheral corneal ulceration in the left eye. Extensive systemic and infectious evaluations, including rheumatologic, immunologic, and microbiological testing, were unremarkable. Human leukocyte antigen genotyping was DR17(03)-negative and DQ2-positive. Rheumatological evaluation yielded no definitive systemic diagnosis. Despite immunosuppressive therapy with adjuvant medications, the epithelial defect and stromal inflammation persisted. The patient underwent conjunctival resection, resulting in marked reduction in inflammation, rapid re-epithelialization, and structural stabilization of the cornea. Histopathology of excised conjunctiva showed nonspecific inflammation without granulomatous changes, vasculitis, or neoplastic features. During follow-up, patient remained in remission with visual acuity preserved at 6/6 bilaterally and no recurrence. Conclusion Mooren’s ulcer is rare but vision-threatening. Early recognition, comprehensive evaluation, and timely surgical intervention can be vision-saving. This case highlights the role of a multidisciplinary approach and supports conjunctival resection as a useful adjunct in refractory disease. Long-term follow-up is essential.

Osteoarthritis Falls Origins, Risks, and Prevention: Do we Need an Ecological Guiding Explanatory Framework?

Lower limb osteoarthritis, a widespread age related chronic condition is often accompanied by an increased tendency to fall and thereby various degrees of intrinsic and extrinsic injury. Falls, in turn may provoke the disease alone and in turn a high falls risk and cycle of recurrent falls and heightened disability. This report which updates what is known about falls in the context of disabling osteoarthritis argues for a possible future ecological orientation rather than a focal uni dimensional approach to addressing this costly health problem. It examines osteoarthritis falls risk factors, falls injury prevention attempts, and recommendations to advance research and practice using an ecological analytic approach in this regard. Using the PUBMED data base and others, lower limb osteoarthritis linkages and falls interaction studies were sought and examined. The data revealed osteoarthritis can lead to the chances of incurring one or more falls and further health and disability challenges, while falling can provoke the onset of osteoarthritis in its own right. Although many factors appear to be involved, these are rarely viewed through a broad multi dimensional ecological perspective, thus are confusing or overwhelming to apply to the active community dwelling elderly subject.

Psychosocial Interventions in Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition marked by episodes of mania and depression, significant functional impairment, and challenges with treatment adherence. Current guidelines highlight the importance of both medication and psychosocial approaches in treatment. This review explores the primary psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder. Psychoeducation helps recognize early symptoms, improves medication compliance, and prevents relapses. It is simple to implement and cost-effective. Family-Focused Therapy (FFT) enhances family communication, reduces emotional expression, and lowers the frequency of depressive episodes. Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) supports maintaining social stability by addressing disturbances in biological rhythms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) decreases depressive symptoms and boosts treatment adherence by restructuring automatic thoughts. Additionally, cognitive and functional rehabilitation programs improve attention, memory, and executive functioning. Peer support groups and digital e-health tools, though supportive, have limited evidence of effectiveness. In summary, multicomponent psychosocial interventions serve as a valuable addition to medication, helping to prevent relapses, improve functioning, and enhance quality of life in individuals with bipolar disorder.

Mathematical Modelling of Typhoid Fever Transmission Dynamics and Intervention Impact in Harare, Zimbabwe (2018–2020)

Background Typhoid fever remains a significant public health issue in Harare City, Zimbabwe, exacerbated by recurrent outbreaks between 2018 and 2020. Key challenges, including inadequate water supply and sanitation infrastructure, high population density, and limited healthcare access, have intensified the disease burden. Understanding the key transmission drivers and assessing the impact of various interventions are essential for informing policy and health strategies. Objectives This study aimed to: 1: To predict future trends in typhoid fever cases Harare City typhoid hot areas. 2: To develop a mathematical model to simulate the spread of typhoid fever incidence under different intervention scenarios and recommend evidence-based strategies for reducing the disease burden in Harare City. Methods A dynamic compartmental SIR-based model, adapted from the Pitzer Vaccine Effectiveness (VE) framework, was employed to simulate disease transmission. This model accounted for both short-cycle (human-to-human) and long-cycle (environmental) transmission pathways. Data from Harare City (2018–2020) were used for model calibration and forecasting, and sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the impact of different intervention levels. Findings The model identified inadequate sanitation, contaminated water sources, and low health- seeking behaviors as primary drivers of typhoid transmission. In the absence of interventions, the model projected a sustained high rate of transmission. However, treatment and WASH interventions could reduce the disease burden by 50–60%, while combined strategies incorporating vaccination and education led to an 80% reduction in cases. Sensitivity analysis indicated that treatment and WASH interventions were particularly impactful at moderate coverage levels. Conclusion Mathematical modeling effectively demonstrated the multifactorial drivers of typhoid fever transmission in Harare. Integrated interventions that combine WASH, vaccination, treatment, and education present the most promising approach for long-term control of the disease. The findings offer a solid, data-driven foundation for public health decision-making and resource allocation.

Efficacy of Neemraj and Beauvitech on Abundance and Distribution of Arthropod Pests in Soil and Hydroponically Grown Strawberry

Strawberry is a commercially important crop which has gained global significance in terms of production and consumption. The strawberry farmers have been faced with economic losses due to attack from arthropod and phytophagus pests. To overcome this challenge, management of pests is important with reduced impact on beneficial organisms and the environment. Use of non-chemical approaches as an alternative to insecticide driven management is highly gaining popularity. Identification of the non-chemical production for management of strawberry pest such as entomopathogenic fungi and botanicals is critical. The need for compatibility of entomopathogenic fungi in crop production techniques with other insecticides to enhance efficacy is required. The interaction between these control agents could be synergistic, additive or even antagonistic. Synergistic interactions usually lead to enhanced effectiveness of the microbial control agents while reducing the adverse effects of the pesticides in combination. In this review a description of the compatibility of entomopathogenic fungus Beauvaria bassiana and botanical neem in strawberry pest management is given. The experiment involved five treatments: Neemraj, Beauvitech, Neemraj and Beauvitech, Ampligo and control. These treatments were allocated in a completely Randomized design in two separate greenhouse setups one with soil and other with pumice. The treatments were replicated four times. The data was subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model (GLM) procedure of the statistical analysis system (SAS) program, version 9.1. Tukey’s (HSD) test at P≤ 0.05 was used to separate significant means. The combination of Neemraj and Beauvitech was most effective in the management of pests in both hydroponics and soil grown media. Pest populations were reduced significantly as follows; thrips, Frankliniella spp 2.1, red spider mites Tetranychus species 11.5, tarnished plant bug Lygus species 3.0, there was 0% cricket Gryllus species damage and 0 number strawberry weevil in hydroponics cultures while in soil culture pest mean populations were: thrips 5.6, spider mites Tetranychus species 18.2, strawberry weevil (Otiorhynchus species) 7.0, tarnished plant bug 3.0 and there was 13.8% cricket Gryllus species damage on strawberry plants.

Insect-Based Foods: A Comprehensive Review on Nutritional Benefits and Environmental Sustainability

The growing population demands and environmental concerns associated with traditional protein sources have prompted the exploration of alternative and sustainable food sources. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to highlight the nutritional benefits and sustainability of insect-based foods as a promising solution. Global population growth necessitates innovative approaches to meet the demand for nutritious and sustainable protein sources. There are numerous challenges associated with traditional livestock farming, including land use inefficiency, high water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. As a result, edible insects have emerged as a viable alternative, providing proteins (35-77% of dry matter), healthy fats (10-50%), essential amino acids, and micronutrients such as iron (up to 31mg/100g) and zinc (up to 20mg/100g), vitamins, and minerals. In contrast to livestock, which requires 22,000-43,000 liters of water to produce 1 kg of beef, insect farming consumes significantly less water and land resources. Insects have the potential to address nutritional deficiencies and strengthen food security as they are recognized for sustainable production. The study thoroughly investigates the literature addressing environmental and sustainability concerns associated with edible insect farming, using a rigorous bibliometric and scientometric analysis via Vos viewer. With the help of Vos Viewer, it was possible to identify the geographical distribution of countries that contributed to the field of edible insects and their acceptance, as well as the top ten documents in this field with the most citations and mostly used keywords in this field of research. Future research and implementation strategies will be able to benefit global food security and environmental conservation through these alternative protein sources.

Review: The Role of Human Papillomavirus in Virus-Induced Carcinogenesis

Viral infections contribute to a significant proportion of human cancers, with human papillomavirus (HPV) being one of the most well-established oncogenic viruses. This review summarizes HPV biology, transmission, classification, molecular mechanisms of carcinogenesis, epidemiology of HPV-associated cancers, and current and emerging preventive and therapeutic approaches. particularly HPV-16 and HPV-18, drives malignant transformation through the E6 and E7 oncoproteins, which disrupt tumor suppressor pathways p53 and Rb. Prophylactic vaccination programs have demonstrated remarkable success in reducing HPV-related disease burden, but disparities in coverage remain. Cutting-edge strategies such as CRISPR/Cas9 and RNA-based therapeutics offer promising avenues for treating established infections. Integrating these biomedical advances with robust public health initiatives is essential to ultimately eliminate HPV-associated cancers worldwide (Figure1).

The Energy–Matter–Behavioral Model of Mental Health Hygiene: A Systems-Based Framework for Sustainable Well-Being

The Energy–Matter–Behavioral (EMB) model offers a systems-based lens for understanding and maintaining mental health hygiene. This framework integrates stress reduction, biological resilience, and behavioral reinforcement into a coherent triad, addressing not only symptoms but underlying energetic and material dynamics. By aligning practices such as exercise, meditation, social connection, sleep, and diet with EMB principles, this model presents a transdisciplinary, evidence-informed approach to mental health in an overstimulated world.

Assessing The Nutritional Status and Health Outcomes of Women and Children in Rajshahi, Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Study

Background Malnutrition is a significant public health issue in Bangladesh, particularly impacting women and children. Rajshahi, marked by socio-economic disparities, offers a distinctive context to explore the nutritional status and health outcomes of these vulnerable groups. Objectives This study aims to assess the nutritional status of women and children in Rajshahi and investigate associated health outcomes. Additionally, it seeks to identify socio-economic and cultural factors that influence nutrition. Methods A mixed-methods approach was utilized, incorporating a cross-sectional survey of 460 households and in-depth interviews with mothers and caregivers. Anthropometric measurements were taken to evaluate the nutritional status of women and children, while dietary assessments measured nutrient intake and diversity. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the likelihood of malnutrition based on socio-economic characteristics, thereby identifying key risk factors. Results The findings indicate a troubling prevalence of malnutrition, with 36% of children under five classified as stunted and 25% as underweight. The analysis highlights critical factors contributing to chronic undernutrition, including maternal education, employment, and dietary diversity. Notably, mothers aged 27-37 exhibit a lower risk of undernutrition, and urban households with secure food access demonstrate better nutritional outcomes. Discussion Maternal education and employment were positively associated with better nutritional outcomes, as educated and employed mothers had higher chances of maintaining a normal BMI. Regular ANC visits (≥4 visits) were crucial for improved maternal nutrition. Household food security emerged as a significant determinant, with food-secure households showing better maternal nutritional status. Safe water access and adequate dietary diversity were also linked to improved maternal BMI. Additionally, factors such as child birth weight, exclusive breastfeeding, and childhood diarrhea significantly influenced maternal nutrition. Moreover, frequent antenatal care visits and a diverse diet are vital in mitigating undernutrition risks among children. Conclusion This study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted interventions to combat malnutrition in Rajshahi. Recommendations include implementing community-based nutrition education programs and improving access to healthcare services. By addressing the socio-economic and cultural determinants of nutrition, stakeholders can enhance health outcomes for women and children in the region, ultimately contributing to broader public health objectives in Bangladesh.

Existential Therapy and the Contextual Model: Unified by Presence, Flexibility, and Meaning-Making

This article offers a literature review and theoretical synthesis and application of existential therapy and the contextual model. It reviews the contextual factors that may be predictive of positive therapy outcomes in general, identifies distinct types of existential therapy, highlights core commonalities in these existential branches, and explores how the main aims of the existential therapy approach may be foundational in facilitating improved mental health treatment outcomes and well-being. The author asserts that presence-both intrapersonal and interpersonal are at the heart of the contextual factors, along with flexibility, and meaning-making. This assertion has implications for therapist education, development, training, and supervision.

Proteomic and Genomic Techniques in Medical Research: Applications in Cancer, Diagnostics, and Personalized Medicine

Advancements in proteomic and genomic technologies have transformed molecular biology by enabling comprehensive analysis of biological systems at the molecular level. This literature review explores the evolution, methodologies, and practical applications of key proteomic and genomic techniques. In proteomics, tools such as two-dimensional electrophoresis, mass spectrometry, Western blotting, Edman degradation, and functional protein microarrays have facilitated high-throughput protein identification, post-translational modification analysis, and biomarker discovery. Similarly, genomic methodologies like PCR, recombinant DNA technology, gel electrophoresis, and Southern blotting have revolutionized gene detection, manipulation, and expression profiling. The review also highlights the interdisciplinary impact of these technologies across clinical diagnostics, oncology, autoimmune disorders, infectious disease surveillance, cardiovascular research, and personalized nutrition. Integrative approaches combining proteomics and genomics are enabling the discovery of novel therapeutic targets, improving disease classification, and advancing precision medicine. Despite current limitations, such as the absence of amplification techniques for proteins and challenges in data interpretation, ongoing innovations promise to bridge these gaps. This synthesis underscores the pivotal role of molecular techniques in deepening our understanding of human biology and accelerating biomedical advancements for improved healthcare outcomes.

Vulnerabilities in Environment and Health Due to Climate Change and Extreme Hydrological Events: Determinants for Risk Reduction

This short communication/mini-review immensely emphasizes human health to explicate and elucidate management of the global scourge associated with the determinants and impact of vulnerabilities to extreme hydrologic events and climate change in the absence of risk reduction and their concomitant sequelae. The most effective approach for risk reduction associated with biodiversity, environmental, and health vulnerabilities due to climate change and extreme hydrological events, an ecological framework must take into cognizance exposure, vulnerability, and resilience. This framework emphasizes the significance of understanding the inextricable linkage between ecosystems and human communities are exposed and susceptible to hazards, sensitivity to these hazards, and capacity to cope, adapt and recuperate. Risk reduction incorporates structurally attenuating exposure, strengthening resilience, and sustainably enhancing overall vulnerability management. Extreme weather and climate-associated incidents impinge on human health with consequential morbidity, mortality and socioeconomic challenges and constraints. Climate change and extreme event have altered the frequency, intensity, geographic distribution, and propensity as drivers for change in the future. The indicted variables include hydrological events, such as precipitation, floods and droughts as well as heat waves, wildfires, global warming, extreme temperatures, and hurricanes. The pathways inextricably-linked with extreme events to economic dissipation, human health prognosis and outcomes remain inexplicably diverse and complex; and thus, difficult to predict due to their emergence and reemergence from local, societal and environmental factors which influence disease burden.

Exploring the Nanomedicinal Features of Ayurvedic Bhasmas: Insights from Traditional Medicine

Ayurveda is a traditional and scholarly medical system practiced in South Asia since the Vedic period. It integrates science and philosophy to promote a healthy, happy and prosperous life. Ayurvedicbhasmas are classical formulations that contain non-toxic forms of metals and minerals, enriched with therapeutic metabolites. These bhasmas are produced through repeated trituration of metals and minerals with the extracts from potent Ayurvedic herbs, followed by intense heating at temperatures above 650 °C. The preparation process of bhasmas closely resemble top-down approach in nanoparticle synthesis, resulting in very fine calcined nano-powders. These powders are used effectively in Ayurvedic treatments for various ailments, particularly chronic diseases. Recent studies have highlighted that bhasmas possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antitumor properties and may serve as potential carriers for drug delivery. This paper aims to compare bhasma particles prepared by traditional and modern methods, explore the therapeutic benefits of different bhasmas, and investigate the nanomedicinal features of various Ayurvedicbhasmas.

Synthesis of N-Glycosyl Amides via Hydrolysis of Protected Glycosyl Oxazolines and Ritter-like Reactions of Native Carbohydrates

A stereoselective synthesis of N-glycosyl amides was studied from available N-glycosyl oxazolines prepared by Ritter-like reactions of protected sugar acetonides. Hydrolysis reactions of the protected pentofuranosyl and hexafuranosyl oxazolines, as precursors of glycosyl amine derivatives, were carried out in the presence of silica gel in chloroform to giveN-α- and β-glycosyl amides in good yields after column chromatography on silica gel. Access to selectively blocked N-α-xylo-, -ribo-, β-arabino-furanosyl, α-glyco-, α-allo-furanosyl, α- and β-galactopyranosyl amides (twelve examples) useful for preparing modified N-glycosides was accomplished through a mild hydrolysis of sugar oxazolines with 2-alkyl substituents in acidic and neutral conditions. To further explore the scope of the BF3.Et2O-mediated approachdeveloped for N-furanosyl oxazolines, a stereoselective synthesis of protected N-α-hexopyranosyl oxazoline was fulfilled in a high yield from d-galactopyranose diacetonide derivative. The Ritter-like promoted reaction between D-arabinose and benzonitrile afforded 2-phenyl-β-d-arabinofurano-(1,2-d)-2-oxazoline as the main product. In acetonitrile the BF3.Et2O-KHF2-assisted reactions of unprotected native sugars were found to result in the formation of mixtures of N-furanosyl and pyranosyl acetamides.

Factors Influencing Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Status Among Adolescent Pregnant Women in South-Eastern Tanzania: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Adolescent pregnancy has become a global health concern in recent years, with maintaining dietary diversity being essential to ensure the health of both the mother and fetus. This study aimed to understand the dietary diversity and nutritional status among pregnant adolescents attending antenatal clinic and identify the factors influencing these outcomes. Methodology A hospital based cross-sectional study was done at St Francis Regional Referral Hospital at Ifakara, Tanzania. A total of 131 adolescent pregnant women consented to participate. Data was obtained using questionnaire and 24-hour dietary recall. Results The study revealed that 93.1% (n=122) of adolescent pregnant women met the minimum dietary diversity score based on 24-hour recall period. Similar proportions were observed for age group but vary significantly with the number of children born (p< 0.001), marital status (p = 0.032) and education level (p< 0.001). Additionally, 93.9% (n=123) of adolescent pregnant women had a normal Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) and 6.1% (n=8) were undernourished. Similar proportions were observed across age, number of children born, marital status, education status, and occupation. Conclusion Most adolescent pregnant women in this study achieved adequate dietary diversity. However, socio-demographic factors such as age, marital status, and education, as well as challenges like illness and loss of appetite, influenced their dietary diversity and overall nutritional status. Future research should adopt a community-based longitudinal approach to better understand these factors and provide a more comprehensive understanding on the dietary patterns of adolescent pregnant women.

Internal Jugular Phlebectasia; A Challenging Neck Mass in Children

Cystic neck masses are uncommon in children, and a minority of them are soft. Internal jugular vein phlebectasia (IJVP) is a rare cause of soft neck cysts. It presents usually as a unilateral soft neck mass of changing size. In most cases it is unilateral, right sided and predominantly in males. Imaging study modalities are diagnostic and helpful for observation and follow up. In the vast majority of cases, it decreases in size with time requiring only conservative treatment. However, surgery might be necessary in large or complicated phlebectasia. IJVP is underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed especially in pediatrics, with few cases documented in medical literature. To improve awareness of presentation and management-plan of this rare case, the authors present an extremely rare case of huge left internal jugular phlebectasia in a 14 year-old boy worsened and complicated over years of wait and see approach that needed surgical treatment.

Protection Side Chain of Lysine by Host-Affinity Molecules during Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis in Aqueous Phase

A new approach to protecting the side chain of lysine during solid-phase peptide synthesis in an aqueous environment is explored. The objectives of this study are twofold: 1) to reduce the consumption of chemical solvents in peptide synthesis, and 2) to lower the costs associated with lysine side chain protection. In an effort to minimize the usage of organic solvents in amino acid side chain protection for peptide synthesis,18-crown-6 molecule (18C6) was introduced as protective agent for Lysine (Lys) side chain protection. 18C6 is utilized to protect ε-amino group of on side chain of Lys in peptide synthesis. 18C6 features cavity at its center. The 18C6 molecules exhibit a unique and distinctive host-guest affinity towards ε-amino group on side chain of Lys. 18C6 bind to Lys side chain through hydrogen bonds with ε-amino group of Lys, eliminating the need for chemical reactions in organic solvents to attach protective molecules to the side chain groups. This simplifies the side chain protection procedure significantly for Lys, reducing the consumption of organic solvents. Consequently, this procedure offers advantages for contributing to a greener planet by minimizing chemical reactions and organic solvent usage. Additionally, the cost of side chain protection of Lys is dramatically reduced.

Health-Related Quality of Life Perception Among Older Persons with Non-Communicable Diseases in Primary Healthcare Facilities: A Qualitative Inquiry

Background The understanding of older persons with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) regarding health well-being is paramount and can translate to increased self-efficiency, independence, and enhanced well-being. However, little is known about older persons' understanding of the concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Uganda. The study explored perceptions and unveiled understanding of older persons with NCDs on HRQoL in central Uganda. Methods This exploratory qualitative study design involved 23 participants recruited from selected Primary healthcare facilities in Central Uganda. Thematic analysis using an inductive approach generated themes that informed the study's qualitative findings. Results The study highlighted the physical domain as a key component of HRQoL, encompassing holistic well-being, lifestyle modification, and financial stability. To promote well-being and support a healthy aging journey, it is essential to adopt a person-centered approach that aligns with the perceptions of older adults on HRQoL.

Understanding Inherited Bleeding Disorders: Genetic Mutations in Blood Coagulation Factors and Regulatory Proteins

Hereditary thrombotic diseases, or inherited bleeding disorders, are a group of genetic conditions that disrupt normal blood coagulation. These diseases result from mutations in genes encoding blood coagulation factors or other regulatory proteins, impairing the body's ability to regulate bleeding and clotting. The most common inherited clotting disorders are hemophilia A and B, which are associated with deficiencies in clotting factors VIII and IX, respectively. Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is another prevalent disorder characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of the Von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for coagulation. Additionally, the Factor V Leiden mutation is linked to an increased risk of blood clots. The prevalence of inherited coagulation disorders varies significantly by region and subpopulation. It is estimated that 5,000 to 10,000 male newborns are born with hemophilia A or B each year. Von Willebrand disease is much more common, affecting about 1% of the global population. The Factor V Leiden mutation is found in significant percentages of certain populations, with 3–8% of Caucasians being carriers. While antithrombin deficiency is more common in some areas, the incidence of other inherited clotting disorders, such as Factor XI, protein C and S deficiencies, and VWD, varies widely worldwide. This study discusses the incidence of inherited clotting disorders and their impact on affected individuals and their families. It also covers new advancements in disease management, alternative therapy approaches, and contemporary diagnostic techniques, aiming to improve diagnoses, treatments, and outcomes for patients with hereditary clotting disorders.

Osteoarthritis in Older Adults: Is More Emphasis on Managing and Mitigating its Stressful Ramifications, and Enhancing Coping, and Self Efficacy Cognitions Indicated?

Efforts to mitigate or prevent painful disabling osteoarthritis have been pursued for more than a century with limited success. This current overview briefly summarizes how selected beliefs and behaviors, including coping and stress management approaches are potential mediators or moderators of osteoarthritis pain and its overall common adverse prognosis and outcome. Published data housed predominantly in PUBMED, PUBMED CENTRAL, SCIENCE DIRECT, and GOOGLE SCHOLAR sites and pertaining to selected aspects of the literature of current interest, cumulative results reported as of May 30, 2024, show a modest to strong rationale exists for considering the abovementioned factors in efforts to reduce pain and enable daily functions. Accordingly this line of research should be continued, and translated clinically without undue delay, especially in the face of increases in the aging population and osteoarthritis prevalence and undue suffering.

Mental Health Disparities Among LGBTQ+ Youth and The Strategies to Promote Their Well-Being

Introduction Compared to their heterosexual counterparts, cisgender LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to experience numerous mental health conditions, for instance, suicidal ideation, stress, and anxiety. This study aimed to explore mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth while identifying strategies to promote their well-being. Methodology Incorporating a systematic approach, studies were selected according to the predefined inclusion criteria, ensuring recentness and relevance. Five databases were systematically searched while the PRISMA flowchart was employed for illustrating the systematic selection process. The PEO framework directed the study selection. Thematic analysis was applied to identify themes that were related to the study aim. Results Five themes were emerged including policy changes and legal frameworks, contextual and cultural factors, family and social support, underlying factors of mental health, and healthcare services access. The synthesis of the literature uncovers the multifaceted relationship between cultural and contextual factors and policy changes, social and family support and healthcare services. The study also underlines the importance of implementing an intersectional minority stress model for comprehensively understanding mental health disparities among LGBTQ+ youth. Conclusion The results emphasize the importance of ongoing research in policy alterations, accessibility to healthcare, and creating supportive surroundings to tackle differences in mental health. Recognizing the complexity of these issues, this paper requires an in-depth examination that considers intersecting factors, promotes inclusivity, and involves long-term studies in providing mental health support to enhance the well-being of LGBTQ+ young individuals.

A Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy For Predicting Therapy Targets Of Beta-Sitosterol In Treating Diabetic Retinopathy

Background Beta-Sitosterol (SIT) is an active TCM compound employed to treat diabetic retinopathy (DR). A network pharmacology approach to understanding the active ingredients and the therapeutic mechanisms underlying DR has not been pursued. Methods The potential targets for DM were identified according to the MedGene, Gendome, HGNC, OMIM, GeneCards, PheGenI, GEO, and STRING database. The herb and components were predicted and screened by network pharmacology through oral bioavailability and drug-likeness filtration using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Analysis Platform database. A network pharmacology prediction and network analysis were used to predict the active potential targets and pathways of SIT application to DR. Results We found the Top 15 DR-related genes by screening in 9 databases. 26 kinds of TCM and nearly 300 kinds of active ingredients. SIT exists in 10 kinds of DR-treat TCM. The comprehensive network pharmacology approach was successful in identifying 23 kinds of core genes for SIT treating DR. ERBB3 and IGF2-related PI3K-Akt signaling pathway or EDN3, IGF2 and SPP1-related receptor ligand activity pathway might be the main pharmacological targets, and pathways in DR. We speculated that SIT was effective for the treatment of DR.  Conclusion Based on the network pharmacology, we predicted the potential targets of SIT in treating DR and helped to illustrate the mechanism of action. Our study identifies key genes and pathways associated with the prognosis and pathogenesis of DR from new insights.

Peptide Synthesis in Aqueous Solution With a Reusable Solid Phase

A procedure has been developed for synthesizing peptides in an aqueous solution with a reusable solid phase. Specifically designed linker molecule is employed to attach peptides to hydrophilic solid phases, enabling Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis (SPPS) in aqueous solutions. The linker molecule is utilized to connect peptides to an anionic exchange resin during peptide synthesis in an aqueous solution. The general structure of the linker molecule is Fmoc-AA-CH2-Ph-Rx-SO3-, the Fmoc (9-fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl) group serves as a protecting group for amino acids. Amino acids (AA) are linked to the solid phase through a structure of Methoxyphenylcarbonyl group, which is cleavable under strong acidic conditions. The sulfate group is present for forming an ionic bond with the solid resin in an aqueous solution. In this procedure, Fmoc-AA are utilized as building blocks for sequentially adding amino acids in peptide synthesis. Due to Fmoc-AA poor solubility in aqueous solutions, a procedure was developed to enhance the solubility of hydrophobic compounds, with a specific emphasis on dissolving Fmoc-protected Amino Acids (Fmoc-AA) in an aqueous solution. This enhancement facilitates SPPS in aqueous conditions with Fmoc-AA as building blocks. Cationic exchange resin, which is reusable, serves as the solid phase. Our research objective is to shift from the use of organic solvents to an aqueous system while maintaining the existing SPPS practices in organic solvents as closely as possible. This transition involves minimal alterations, maintaining consistency with the organic solvent system, except for the utilization of novel peptide linker molecule to hydrophilic solid resins that are commercially available. This approach is designed to facilitate a more readily acceptable transition for the peptide synthesis industry from using organic solvents to aqueous solution, contributing to greener and more sustainable synthetic methodologies.

Fecal Shedding, Antimicrobial Resistance and In Vitro Biofilm formation on Simulated Gallstones by Salmonella Typhi Isolated from Typhoid Cases and Asymptomatic Carriers in Nairobi, Kenya

Typhoid fever, caused by the human restricted pathogen Salmonella Typhi, remains a major global public health concern. Even after successful treatment, approximately 3-5% of patients with typhoid fail to clear the bacteria within one year and become chronic carriers. Most typhoid carriers have gallstones in their gallbladder, and biofilm formation on gallstones is highly correlated with chronic carriage. This study’s goal was to identify asymptomatic typhoid carriers in an endemic setting in Kenya, and to compare acute versus chronic isolates. A cohort of typhoid fever patients identified through blood and/or stool culture, and their household contacts, were followed up after treatment to detect longitudinal S. Typhi stool shedding. An abdominal ultrasound scan was used to identify individuals with gallstones. A total of 32 index patients and 32 household contacts were successfully followed-up. Gallstones were detected in 4 cases and 1 household contact. The duration of S. Typhi shedding was significantly longer in individuals with gallstones compared to those without, P<0.001. Eighty-three (83) S. Typhi strains were tested for susceptibility to commonly used antimicrobials and examined by in vitro biofilm formation assays. Out of 37 infected individuals, 32.4% had infections caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) S. Typhi strains and only 18.9% were infected by susceptible strains. Non-MDR strains formed significantly better biofilms in vitro than the MDR strains (P<0.001). This study provides data on S. Typhi chronic carriage that will influence public health approaches aimed at reducing typhoid transmission and the burden of infection.

Comparative Study On ‘Dietary Education’ In Japan And Korea: From The Latest Nutritional Knowledge Perspective

According to the Japan’s National Health and Nutrition Survey, trends in the intake of vegetables and fruits (1999-2018), which are considered effective in preventing lifestyle-related diseases, are far below the target value; In the under-50 age group, less than 30% achieved the target vegetable intake of 350g, and less than 15% achieved the target fruit intake of 200g 53. Against such background, it has become a challenge to nurture children's ‘self-management ability’ that leads to spontaneous and healthy dietary habits 16. Until now, almost all research on ‘Dietary education’ has been conducted in the field of nutrition, focusing on accumulating nutritional knowledge by explaining each nutritional component and its function. However, it is difficult to nurture spontaneous and healthy dietary habits simply through repeated nutrition-based education. It can be said that the pedagogical approach of this paper has made it possible to pursue from a broader perspective that influences food choices. Research on ‘nutrition transition’ points out “worldwide obesity dynamics and their determinants” based on “a shift in the broader patterns of dietary habits (Western-style diet) and corresponding nutrition-related diseases” 42. Nutrition transition research 5040 has a broad and holistic perspective on food and health, making it easy to understand nutrition. The purpose of this paper is to pursue how to nurture the ‘self-management ability’ for spontaneous and healthy dietary habits, based on these latest nutritional knowledges. Because nutrition transition is a global phenomenon, the author choses to use broader methods of international comparative research. Comparisons lead to discoveries and value creation. This can be said to have the greatest significance in comparative research.

Potential of Energy Efficiency and Conservation Measures in Residential Buildings in Ghana (Case Study of Student Hostel)

Promoting responsible energy usage in student hostels and residential buildings plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable development. By implementing cost-efficient strategies for managing and conserving energy, both students and homeowners can not only reap economic and social benefits but also mitigate the adverse environmental effects associated with energy consumption. Unfortunately, student hostels and residential buildings in developing countries like Ghana are falling behind in the adoption of energy efficiency and management practices, thereby missing out on valuable implementation opportunities. This study investigates the potential for energy efficiency and conservation measures in student hostels, specifically the GETFUND hostel of the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Ghana. The hostel's monthly energy consumption is approximately 64,929.458kWh, which translates to $5,667.20. The objectives of the study include analysing the current electricity consumption pattern, identifying energy misuse, and recommending measures to save energy, as well as calculating the financial benefits of implementing energy management practices. The methodology employed is an energy audit approach. The results of this study can contribute to overall energy conservation efforts in Ghana and may be applied to other university residence halls in sub-Saharan African countries with similar climatic and energy-use characteristics. In a broader sense, the primary objective of this study is to enhance the energy efficiency of the GETFUND hostel and minimize energy wastage, resulting in substantial financial savings.

Endometriosis, Mental Health and Quality of Life

This article explores links between endometriosis, mental health, and quality of life. It reviews symptom burden, comorbidity patterns, and multidisciplinary care approaches.

The Role of Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Disrupted Sleep in the Moderate-Severe Dementia Population: A Systematic Review

This study systematically reviews the literature on non-pharmacological interventions for disrupted sleep-in people meeting established criteria for moderate-severe dementia, and to analyze the methodological quality of the included studies. The PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane, Virtual Health Library, APA PsycInfo databases were searched using a systematic literature review approach to identify various types of non-pharmacological treatments that improve disrupted sleep-in subjects with moderate-severe dementia. In accordance with the inclusion criteria, eight studies were systematically reviewed and analyzed according to the type of non-pharmacological treatment carried out. This systematic review showed that 50% of the studies used bright light therapy, 12.5% ​​the use of manual therapy, and 37.5% sleep hygiene or walking or a combination of these interventions. Based on the results of the present study, although there is some evidence to support these strategies, it is not significantly supported and highlights variation in the way the interventions were delivered. Disrupted sleep is highly prevalent in people with dementia and have a negative impact on the quality of life of the sufferer and the caregiver. Non-pharmacological approaches to its treatment are increasingly popular as an alternative to drugs, whose efficacy and side effects have raised concerns among the population. Currently, there is a need to carry out more future research to establish its effectiveness and to be able to provide clear guidelines at the time of clinical practice.

Barriers to Managing Childhood Obesity in the General Practice Amidst of the Double Burden of Malnutrition: A Sri Lankan Perspective

Childhood obesity is on the rise, mostly in the low-income regions in South Asia including Sri Lanka. Simultaneously, undernutrition also continues to be an ongoing public health issue. The coexistence of childhood obesity with undernutrition has resulted in a double burden of malnutrition in these countries.  Management of obesity in a community already affected by undernutrition is a challenging situation. At present, management of childhood obesity occurs as a hospital-based lifestyle modification intervention which cannot address all tiers in the community alike. Although national level multifaceted strategies are in place, implementation is limited due to financial constraints. In this context, the general practitioners can be considered as an important group of medical professionals who can reach families in the community.  In many households in Sri Lanka, an overweight child is considered as normal and well-nourished in comparison to an underweight child. Unhealthy eating habits and force feeding have become norms in the society. Changing mindsets of people need significant time and commitment. General practitioners, in the community would be able to achieve this target through effective communication based on a nutrition sensitive approach.  While uplifting the infrastructure facilities, steps have to be taken to update the knowledge and communication skills of the general practitioners on managing childhood obesity in a community affected with double burden of malnutrition. The well-equipped GP is an asset to modify the attitudes and thinking patterns of parents with regard to child nutritional problems. Childhood obesity is on the rise, mostly in the low-income regions in South Asia including Sri Lanka. Simultaneously, undernutrition also continues to be an ongoing public health issue. The coexistence of childhood obesity with undernutrition has resulted in a double burden of malnutrition in these countries. Management of obesity in a community already affected by undernutrition is a challenging situation. At present, management of childhood obesity occurs as a hospital-based lifestyle modification intervention which cannot address all tiers in the community alike. Although national level multifaceted strategies are in place, implementation is limited due to financial constraints. In this context, the general practitioners can be considered as an important group of medical professionals who can reach families in the community. In many households in Sri Lanka, an overweight child is considered as normal and well-nourished in comparison to an underweight child. Unhealthy eating habits and force feeding have become norms in the society. Changing mindsets of people need significant time and commitment. General practitioners, in the community would be able to achieve this target through effective communication based on a nutrition sensitive approach. While uplifting the infrastructure facilities, steps have to be taken to update the knowledge and communication skills of the general practitioners on managing childhood obesity in a community affected with double burden of malnutrition. The well-equipped GP is an asset to modify the attitudes and thinking patterns of parents with regard to child nutritional problems.

Helminth parasites prevalence and distribution among Sheep in Gudaya Bila District, East Wallaga, Ethiopia

Helminth parasite infections in sheep are of major veterinary importance in many agro-ecological zones and are a primary factor in the productivity of sheep. The main objective of this study was to determine helminth parasites prevalence and their economic loss caused on sheep with its control approach at the study area. A cross-sectional study using a simple random sampling procedure was used to study helminth parasite identification at Gudaya Bila district during 2022 in two seasons of the year: winter (January - March) and summer (June - August). Out of 384 sheep chosen at random sampling from five Kebeles in the Gudaya Bila district (Welenelemu, Harogodisa, Chalejima, Hagelogidami, and Bila) that underwent flotation and sedimentation procedures, about 149 were infected by ay helminth parasites, with an overall prevalence 38.8%. Regarding the distribution of helimenth parasites at the class level, the prevalence was 13.9%, 11.7%, and 3.9% in trematoda, nematode, and cestoda, respectively. The helminth species that had highest prevalence were Fasciola species (19.5%), Haemonchus species (14.76%), Strongyloides species (10.74%), and Schistosoma species (9.4%), and those that had the least prevalence were Moniezia species (6.04%), Paramphistomum species (5.4%), Taenia species (4.02%), Nematodirus species (3.3%) and Trichostrongylus species (1.34 %). The summer season was favorable for helminths parasite transmission. The prevalence of helminths in the summer season was 98 (25.5%), and in the winter season it was 51 (13.3%). The study shows that the gastrointestinal helminth parasite was a major health problem and had an impact on the production of sheep in the study area. Therefore, a detailed study should be conducted to identify the parasite at the species level, and further investigation will be needed to study the association of the prevalence of helminth parasites within age, sex and the agroecology of sheep in the area. Then educating the people about the impacts of helminths is needed to control them.

Enzyme Immobilization on Polypropylene Film: A Role Model for Biocatalytic Polymer Membranes?

Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) technologies hold promise for sustainable energy solutions, yet pinhole-related challenges persist. Our research introduces a novel biohybrid approach to self-healing, enhancing multiple healing cycles with minimal membrane disruption. Initial steps involve immobilizing enzymes on a polymeric membrane. This study establishes the immobilization process and analytical framework through enzyme immobilization on polypropylene. Applicability and stability are investigated, laying groundwork for potential Nafion™ applications and advancing climate neutral energy. Qualitative analysis employs colorimetric p-NPA assay on polypropylene-immobilized lipase from Candida rugosa (CRL) and Lipase B from Candida antarctica (CALB). Both enzymes hold their temperature optimum at 50°C which is increased by 10°C via immobilization. Diisopropylcarbodiimide (DIC) is optimal for immobilization. Synchronous enzyme and DIC addition is advantageous. After 8 reuse cycles, immobilized enzymes retain 54.3% residual activity. Immobilizates exposed to PEM fuel cell conditions show better stability due to covalent immobilization than free CRL. Yet, declines occur under stressors like 60 °C and concentrated alcohol. Immobilizates remain resilient at pH 3 and under oxidizing as well as reducing conditions constituted by varied gas atmospheres. Considering PEM fuel cells' operational range, in-depth investigations across conditions are vital. Future studies target long-term PEM fuel cell lifespans, focusing on extremophilic enzymes or modifications for high-temperature stability. Subsequently, the transferability of the immobilization method to Nafion™ shall be deliberated based on the outcomes.

Assessment of Environmentally Responsible Health-Oriented Behaviors in Students

Background & Objective Changing people’s attitude toward the environment is an important approach to the prevention of environmental damages. The present study aimed to evaluate environmentally responsible health-oriented behaviors in students. Materials and Methods This research was performed on 360 medical students (180 males and 180 females) who were selected via stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a responsible environmental behaviors questionnaire. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 21 using linear regression analysis and Pearson’s correlation-coefficient. Results The scores of the environmental attitude, environmental knowledge, and environmental behaviors of the participants were estimated at 52.63±5.74, 74.43±5.99, and 103.37±11.51, respectively. An insignificant correlation was observed between the environmental knowledge and environmental behaviors of the students (r=0.07; P=0.20). However, the correlation-coefficient between the environmental attitude and environmental behaviors of the students was positive and significant (r=-0.54; P<0.001). A negative, significant correlation was also denoted between the environmental knowledge and environmental attitude of the students (r=-0.39; P<0.001). Conclusion Despite relatively poor environmental awareness and attitude, the majority of the students had proper environmental behaviors. Therefore, it seems that having an environmentally responsible behavior does not rely on environmental attitude and knowledge. In fact, behaviors influenced by social conditions and structure encourage and facilitate environmental behaviors.

RET 898-901Del mutant, a variant of unknown significance, has a durable response to Pralsetinib in a Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma patient

Background Patients with distant metastatic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) have an estimated 40% ten-year survival rate. Gain of function mutations in the REarranged during Transfection or RET gene in MTC can result in an aggressive phenotype resistant to traditional therapy. In this case report, we describe the treatment of an MTC patient with a unique RET kinase deletion mutation. Case presentation Since diagnosis, 21 years ago, this patient has had chronically elevated calcitonin levels (>40,000 pg/mL) that was unable to be controlled by conventual therapy and clinical trials. As result of uncontrolled MTC, metastatic disease was found in the spine, liver, and lungs. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis identified a RET 898-901Del mutation, reported as a variant of unknown significance. The treating physician identified that the deletion was in the activation loop of RET kinase and considered that the mutation was constitutively activating RET kinase. The patient was prescribed Pralsetinib, a small molecule inhibitor targeting the ATP binding site of RET. Pralsetinib treatment achieved a durable response and was able to significantly decrease serum calcitonin levels (<200 pg/mL) and tumor size. Conclusion This RET deletion mutation is a pathogenic mutation with comparable enzymatic activity to the more common RET M918T mutation. The case report highlights the versatility of structural biologic approaches to guide therapeutic decisions.

Building on Success in Tobacco Control: A Roadmap Towards Tobacco-Free Oman (Perspective Review)

Tobacco use remains a leading cause of harm to public health. Despite nearly two decades of ratifying the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), Oman is still striving to achieve the best practice approach in different FCTC measures. Current epidemiological data shows that the prevalence of tobacco use among adults in Oman is steadily increasing with time. This review highlights the progress that has been made in the various FCTC measures, as well as how Oman has the possibility to attain the best practice approach in the various FCTC measures, and even go beyond that by implementing policies that have the potential to achieve a tobacco-free Oman by 2040.

Hybrid Limited Shoulder Surgical Management (HLSSM) Sayed Issa's Hybrid Shoulder Arthroscopic-Open Surgical Management

Introduction The idea of HLSSM2 is to get the least easy surgical intervention, as arthroscopic surgery begins with examining the shoulder joint, and the location and size of the lesion are determined, then open over the lesion with an open surgical approach that is very limited for surgical repair; not using arthroscopic instruments but conventional surgical instruments in the second step. Figure 1 Figure 1.   Methods Clinical experience with this technique consists of 44 cases over a period of thirty-one months, this study was from September 2020 to May 2023. All cases were done as outpatients and under general anesthesia. Results The mean duration of the operation was 35 minutes, and the minimum duration was 25 minutes. There was no major nerve or vascular injury in all cases. This technique is simple, safe, and good cosmetically satisfactory for all patients after full recovery about three months after the procedure, and it is cost-effective. One 43-year-old female patient suffered pain and stiffness during the first six months after surgery and was not very satisfied, she did not stop visiting us till now, she was not happy because of shoulder pain and tenderness. Conclusion It can be used by experienced hand surgeons in shoulder arthroscopy and in Mini Lateral Shoulder Approach (MLSA)3, especially in countries where shoulder arthroscopic release and repair with suture anchors are expensive4 or not available. This technique is not very simple but is available, safe, cosmetically satisfactory, and cost-effective.

Osteoarthritis and Depression Update: 2023-Can the Stress and Coping Model Help?

Background Osteoarthritis and depression are both key barriers to healthy aging and greatly heighten the risk for many negative health issues that seriously impact life quality. When combined what are the implications? Aim This mini review examines 2023 data pertaining to osteoarthritis and depression and older adults and a possible theoretical framework of stress that may direct our approaches in the future. Methods and Procedures Articles published between January 1 and August 15 2023 that addressed the current topic of interest and that were extracted from PUBMED, PubMed Central, Science Direct, and Google Scholar were carefully read and their key points arepresented in narrative form. Results As in the past, very few tangible theory-based prospective analyses that employ valid measures of depression and examine any association of any form of osteoarthritis longitudinally and in a consistent manner prevail. Several reports use the same or similar large cohort to draw upon, and find various degrees of clinical implications, but this may not embrace the need for more inclusivity, sampling strategies, control and diversity issues, as well as embracing the role of cognitions positive and negative. Conclusion Without efforts to develop sound research designs of diverse and carefully differentiated osteoarthritis substantive samples it is impossible to delineate the origin or implications of the osteoarthritis-depression linkage reported currently or arrive at a deep understanding of its relevance, to life quality and public health costs. What is needed to protect against or minimize either or both these clinically related disabling correlates in the aged population warrants timely study.

A Review of Attempts to Identification and Antifungal Susceptibility of Dermatophytes (Microsporum Canis and Tricophyton Mentagrophytes) Isolated from Infected Cats and Dogs with Experimental Dermatophytosis of Guinea Pigs

Dermatophytosis affect companion animal’s skin and keratin appendages as cats and dogs, resulting in red, scaly, itchy, bald, and raised patches like ring. The three main groups are Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. This study collected samples of skin scrapping and hairs from 130 cats and 70 dogs, using common mycological approach samples were examined. Antifungal agar disc diffusion and broth microdilution assays were utilized on some of the isolates. Three groups of Guinea pigs (6 in each) were then infected with one isolate of M. canis or T. mentagrophytes fungi, another skin scrapping samples of virulent fungi was isolated on the 7th and 14th days, blood samples were collected at 14th day. Reverse transcription-PCR to detect 98 bp protease gene. Resulting in 45% of cats and dogs tested positive for Microsporum and Trichophyton species. Agar disc diffusion revealed that the antifungal medication griseofulvin was the most effective against tested isolates. The best results for MIC test were griseofulvin (0.98 µg/ml) followed by acetic acid (0.28 µg/ml). Differential leukocytic count of Guinea pigs showed that monocyte levels remained unchanged, while neutrophil and lymphocyte levels had increased. The active (isolates from Guinea pigs skin scrapping) and dormant cells (isolates from keratin free media) were distinguished by Reverse Transcriptase-PCR. Collectively, qPCR is a successive and feasible method for the diagnosis for Microsporum and Trichophyton species.

Time Series Analysis and Prediction of COVID-19 pandemic using Dynamic Harmonic Regression Models

Rapidly spreading Covid-19 virus and its variants, especially in metropoli- tan areas around the world, became a major health public concern. The tendency of Covid-19 pandemic and statistical modelling represent an urgent challenge in the United States for which there are few solutions. In this paper, we demonstrate com- bining Fourier terms for capturing seasonality with ARIMA errors and other dynamics in the data. Therefore, we have analyzed 156 weeks COVID-19 dataset on national level using Dynamic Harmonic Regression model, including simulation analysis and ac- curacy improvement from 2020 to 2023. Most importantly, we provide a new advanced pathways which may serve as targets for developing new solutions and approaches.

Context Specific Complementary Feeding Recommendations for Children in Pakistan Based on Secondary Analysis of National Complementary Feeding Assessment and Pakistan Demographic Health Survey 2018

Background In Low Middle-Income Countries (LIMCs), malnutrition, especially undernutrition is one of the leading causes of childhood mortality and morbidity. Poor complementary feeding practices are among the most notable contributors to poor nutritional indicators in children under five. This article provides an output of secondary data analysis of the Cost of Diet (CoD) and Optifood component of National Complementary Feeding Assessment conducted by UNICEF Pakistan along with Pakistan Demographic Health Survey (PDHS) 2018. Methods For correlation of Optifood data and CoD data with PDHS data of CF, GraphPad software, MS Excel was used along with manual quantifications. The analysis of DHS-2018 data was conducted using STATA software. Univariate analysis included comparison of categorical variables i.e. various individual, household and community level parameters with that of outcome variables of minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF) and minimum dietary diversity (MAD) using chi-square test. Findings The overall rate of MMF was 56.6% among children of 6-23 months of age with MDD in 18.6% and MAD in 13.8% of children. Percentage of annual cost spent on nutritious diet for MDD, MMF and MAD varies from 27.86% to 43.08% across all the provinces. Children aged 6–8 months and 9–11 months often consumed infant milk and cereals, while children aged 12–23 months often consumed eggs and grain products. Consumption of dairy products was highest in Punjab, Sindh, AJK, and Islamabad, that of grains roots and tubers was highest in KPK, FATA and GB. Conclusion Considering CF practices in Pakistan are inadequate as indicated by poor MDD, MMF, and MAD, therefore it is imperative that a holistic approach using both communication and non-communication based interventions is to be employed through active stakeholder engagement.

Barriers and Opportunities to Improve the Implementation of Patient Screening and Linkage to Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis in Primary Care

Although pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is highly effective at preventing HIV infection, only around 25% of at-risk individuals in the United States have accessed a prescription. One way to increase PrEP uptake is through the sexual health screening of patients and linkage to PrEP in primary care settings. The objective of this analysis was to assess the barriers and implementation strategies during a screening and linkage to PrEP pilot intervention. Primary care patients were screened for PrEP indication during routine primary care visits. Of the 1,225 individuals screened, 1.8% (n=22) were eligible for PrEP and from those, 77.3% (n=17) attended the specialist appointment and were prescribed PrEP. Primary care patients (n=30) and providers (n=8) then participated in semi-structured interviews assessing their experience with the pilot intervention. Using an applied thematic analytic approach, patients and providers identified barriers and related improvement strategies that could be classified into four main categories: 1) Financial Barriers: Individual- vs. Clinic-level Considerations 2) The Role of Stigma, Discomfort, and Cultural Factors 3) Logistical Hurdles and Streamlining the Intervention, and 4) The Lack of PrEP Knowledge and the Need for Education. Findings support the accepatability and feasibility of screening for PrEP in primary care along with appropriate implementation strategies. This study suggests that because of the high volume of patients seen in primary care, sexual health screenings and linkage to PrEP interventions have the potential to reduce new incident HIV infections among diverse sexual minority men.

Osteoarthritis Literacy and Equity Issues: A Post COVID-19 Analysis and Update

Background Osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease and one affecting a large number of older adults is not always amenable to the use of passive interventions such as surgery or pharmacologic interventions, but even then, to maximize any desirable intervention approaches, a trustworthy and supportive partnership with the sufferer is strongly indicated. Complicating this process are emerging equity and persistent health literacy issues, as well as post COVID-19 service associated ramifications and persistent disease risks. Aim This mini review was designed to examine what current data reveal as regards the presentation of osteoarthritis and its pathology among the older adult as of the current post COVID-19 pandemic period in 2022, and how health literacy and equity issues are likely implicated in some degree with the disease presentation and its outcomes and will be likely to continue, unless remediated. Methods Peer reviewed published articles on this topic were sought from multiple data bases using the key words- osteoarthritis, health equity, health literacy, prevention, and intervention. Results As in prior years, osteoarthritis continues to induce considerable physical disability and consistently impedes the attainment of a high life quality for many older adults. Although not studied to any degree, attention to health equity and literacy issues appear to pose additional osteoarthritis intervention challenges, especially among the long COVID affected older adults and those with low income and educational levels. Conclusions Many behaviourally oriented and necessary osteoarthritis management approaches and interventions may fail to reduce the functional disability and pain experienced by older people with any form of osteoarthritis to any meaningful degree if a) the provider does not tailor their recommendations in light of possible prevailing health literacy, economic, and educational challenges; b) the patient does not understand how their health behaviours impact joint disease as well as COVID-19 risk status, and are not empowered to undertake these.

Improved Latrine Coverage and Associated Factors Among Rural Community in Gicumbi Gistrict, Rwanda

This study aimed at determining improved latrine coverage and associated factors among rural community in Gicumbi district. A cross-sectional study was employed using mixed methods with quantitative and qualitative data collection approaches. The quantitative approach of data collection method was conducted and then qualitative approach followed. A structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) was conducted to collect the qualitative data. The study population consists of household heads or their representatives and key informants from the study area of Gicumbi district. For quantitative the total sample size was 236 households while for qualitative data, a total of three FGDs with eight (8) participants was conducted among twenty four (24) rural community members of Gicumbi district. Raw data from the questionnaire were entered into EPI data and transported into SPSS version 22 for analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to tabulate and describe the data. The strengths of the associations were determined with multiple logistic regressions. The results shows that 69.1% of respondents were male, 30.1% were farmers, 16.9% had formal employment while 57.2% completed secondary education. The prevalence of improved latrine in Gicumbi District was 65.3%. Tertiary education was also 4.3 times more likely to have improved compared to those who did not have formal education (AOR=4.3CI: 95%: 1.027-7.032. P=0.005). Respondents with average monthly income Between 50,000 and 100,000 Rwfs are 2.7 times more likely to have improved latrine (AOR=2.7 CI at 95%:1.009-4.120, P=0.022).

Molecular Detection of Mycoplasma Gallisepticum and Mycoplasma Synoviae Infection in Poultry

In Pakistan, production of poultry has been evolved as a good alternate of beef and mutton. In this study multiplex PCR approaches were adopted to differentiate and detect avian mycoplasma in a single PCR reaction as a step forward in the economization of PCR detection. From the total of 25 samples, 25 (100%) had a positive Mycoplasma isolation result. The biochemical test yielded the highest number of isolations, with MG accounting for 10/25. Commercial DNA-based PCR kits have been developed as a result of recent advancements in diagnostic techniques for Mycoplasma infections. Tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, tilmicosin, tylosin, spiramycin Infections should be reduced as much as possible.

COVID-19 and Hip Osteoarthritis Disability-Linkages and Emerging Practice Implications

Older adults suffering from chronically painful disabling osteoarthritis of one or more joints such as the hip joint continue to experience multiple health issues, commonly progressive debility, and excess disability. This mini review strove to examine current perspectives in the realm of hip joint osteoarthritis, a widespread disabling disease affecting many older adults in the face of the possible repercussions of the multiple COVID-19 restrictions in response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic that emerged in late 2019, along with the persistence of multiple evolving COVID-19 variants that remain lethal to many older adults, especially among the older chronically impaired population. Using multiple data bases, results reveal that very little progress has been made in recent times to mitigate hip osteoarthritis, along with very few innovative treatment approaches when severe, other than surgery and medication. Moreover, a multitude of non-pharmacologic approaches have not reduced numbers of cases requiring surgery to any extent, even when employed. In addition, outcomes of hip joint replacement surgery, and other treatments for ameliorating unrelenting pain remain largely suboptimal, especially where those undergoing surgery may now be more impaired than in pre pandemic times, and where high rates of opioid related deaths prevail in this regard. As such, it is concluded that whether in the community or being treated in hospital, exposure to COVID-19 remains risky especially in cases who are now weaker and frail, plus suffering from excess chronic disease manifestations, thus warranting more attention and protection of this high risk group, plus insightful preventive efforts to avert multiple interacting COVID-19 effects in the realm of osteoarthritis suffering, especially where patients are willing to risk infection by undergoing surgery.

Psychosomatics: Exploring the Role of the Mind-Body Connection in Causing Physical Illnesses

An overview of psychosomatic medicine explores how mind–body interactions contribute to physical illness. It reviews mechanisms, assessment approaches, and implications for integrated care.

Progress in Rehabilitation Treatments for Sepsis Patients in ICU

Early active mobilisation and rehabilitation in the intensive care unit (ICU) is being used to prevent the long-term functional consequences of critical illness, sepsis patients need early rehabilitation treatment. Individualized rehabilitation is a safe and effective approach for patients with sepsis. This review aimed to introduce the necessity of rehabilitation for patients with sepsis in the ICU, the composition of the rehabilitation team, the time to begin rehabilitation, the focus of rehabilitation, and the main approaches.

Occlusal Contact Recordings in Static and Functional Occlusion: Description of an Observational Method

This methods paper describes a standardized approach for recording occlusal contacts in static and functional states. It outlines instrumentation, calibration, and interpretation steps aimed at improving reproducibility in clinical dentistry.

Analysis of Risk of Death due to COVID-19 in Cameroon

Background Cameroon is battling against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Although several control measures have been implemented, the epidemic continues to progress. This paper analyses the evolution of the pandemic in Cameroon and attempts to provide insight on the evolution of COVID-19 within the country’s population. Methods A susceptible-infected-recovered-dead (SIRD)-like model coupled with a discrete time-dependent Markov chain was applied to predict COVID-19 distribution and assess the risk of death. Two main assumptions were examined in a 10-state and 3-state Markov chain: i) a recovered person can get infected again; ii) the person will remain recovered. The COVID-19 data collected in Cameroon during the period of March 6 to July 30, 2020 were used in the analysis. Results COVID-19 epidemic showed several peaks. The reproductive number was 3.08 between May 18 and May 31; 2.75 between June 1 and June 25, and 2.84 between June 16 and June 24. The number of infected individuals ranged from 17632 to 26424 (June 1 to June 15), and 28100 to 36628 (June 16 to June 24). The month of January 2021 was estimated as the last epidemic peak. Under the assumption that a recovered person will get infected again with probability 0.15, 50000 iterations of the Markov chain (10 and 3- state) demonstrated that the death state was the most probable state. The estimated lethality rate was 0.44, 95%CI=0.10%-0.79%. Mean lethality rate assuming ii) was 0.10. Computation of transition probabilities from reported data revealed a significant increase in the number of active cases throughout July and August, 2020, with a mean lethality rate of 3% by September 2020. Conclusion Multiple approaches to data analysis is a fundamental step for managing and controlling COVID-19 in Cameroon. The rate of transmission of COVID-19 is growing fast because of insufficient implementation of public health measures. While the epidemic is spreading, assessment of major factors that contribute to COVID-19-associated mortality may provide the country’s public health system with strategies to reduce the burden of the disease. The model outputs present the threatening nature of the disease and its consequences. Considering the model outputs and taking concrete actions may enhance the implementation of current public health intervention strategies in Cameroon. Strict application of preventive measures, such as wearing masks and social distancing, could be reinforced before and after the opening of learning institutions (schools and universities) in the 2020/2021 calendar year and next.

Design of Stopwatch based on STC89C52 Single Chip Microcomputer

This design is according to the requirements of the wide rider, and the Multi-function bike computer has the function of velocity measurement, display, timing, lighting, buzzer warning, which could satisfy the requirements of cycling enthusiasts. This design is based on STC89C52 SCM (Single Chip Microcomputer) smallest system and uses hall sensor receives the bicycle wheel rotation numbers date, and then transmit the received data into the SCM. After the SCM’s calculation and processing, it gets the bicycle’s instantaneous speed, mileage, riding time through the LED display the date. The part of software programming use C language, which compiles and downloads by the Keil and STC-ISP. This design uses Proteus to make the circuit diagram drawing and system simulation. The overall program adopted modular approach, and each module has a special function. The idea which makes the program more clear, is advantageous to the optimization of code logic and modification.