Impact of Khat Chewing on Serum Uric Acid and Albuminuria Levels in Yemeni Type II Diabetes Mellitus Patients

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the major cause of end-stage renal disease and is a common endocrine illness defined by chronic hyperglycemia. In addition to diabetes, substance addiction is considered to be a cause of renal issues. The World Health Organization has classed khat (Catha edulis) as an illicit substance. Khat interferes with regular physiological activities, which may have negative health impacts on organs and systems. Objectives: To determine the effect of khat and uric acid on nephropathy in type II diabetes mellitus. Materials and Methods: This is an analytical, cross-sectional study that was conducted on 215 males aged 35 to 55 years who had previously been diagnosed with type II diabetes mellitus and were visiting AL- Thawra General Hospital in Ibb City. The diabetic person was corresponded in age and BMI by the control participant. The subjects were divided into two groups. There were 105 people with type II diabetes mellitus (59% chewing Khat and 46% not chewing Khat), 110 people were healthy and did not have type II diabetes (44% of them chewed Khat and 66% did not chew Khat). Results: A significant increase in albuminuria and proteinuria within the normal range in the diabetes mellitus Khat Chewer group compared to the diabetes mellitus Non-Khat Chewer group (p?0.001). However, no significant differences were seen in the healthy control group. Conclusion: Khat chewing has a strong effect on those with type II diabetes and increases the progression of kidney nephropathy. There was an association between khat chewing and higher uric acid levels in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Prédicteurs de mortalité précoce en cours d'hospitalisation des enfants malnutris aigus sévères de 0-59 mois au CHU Sourou Sanou, Bobo-Dioulasso / Predictors of early mortality during hospitalization of severe acute malnourished children aged 0-59 months at CHU Sourô Sanou, Bobo-Dioulasso

Objectifs : étudier les facteurs de risque de mortalité des enfants malnutris aigus sévères (MAS) dans les 72 premières heures d'hospitalisation. Méthode : Nous avons mené une étude rétrospective sur des données d'enfants MAS de 0-59 mois, hospitalisés du 1er juin 2016 au 31 mai 2019 au CHUSourô Sanou (CHUSS) de Bobo-Dioulasso. Une régression logistiquea été réalisée pour déterminer les facteurs de risque de décès. Les variables avec un odds ratio (OR) >1, et p 3s [OR :3.55, 95%IC: 1.50-8.27], le sepsis [OR : 3.39, 95%IC: 1.33-8.50], étaient les facteurs de risque prédictifs de mortalité. Conclusion : Une formation et supervision continue du personnel soignant sur la prise en charge des urgences pédiatriques, l'utilisation du protocole OMS de prise en charge de la MAS, la disponibilité de kits d'urgence pourraient améliorer la prise en charge des MAS. Mots clés : Mortalité, précoce, MAS, BoboDioulasso

Objectives: to study risk factors for mortality in SAM children within the first 72 hours of hospitalization. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study on data from 0-59-month-old SAM children hospitalized from June 1th, 2016, to May 31th, 2019, at CHUSourô Sanou of Bobo-Dioulasso. A logistic regression was performed to determine risk factors for death. Variables with odds ratio (OR) > 1, and p 3seconds [OR :3.55, 95%IC: 1.50-8.27], sepsis[OR :3.39, 95%IC: 1.33-8.50]were the risk factors predictive of mortality. Conclusion: Training and ongoing supervision of healthcare staff in the management of paediatric emergencies, the use of the WHO SAM management protocol and the availability of emergency kits could improve SAM management

Determinants of health-promoting behaviors in pregnant women

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between social support, marital dissatisfaction, psychological factors, and health-promoting behaviors in pregnant women. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 1,265 pregnant women who visited the outpatient clinic of a maternity hospital between May and August 2023. The Health Promotion Lifestyle-II Questionnaire was used to measure the healthy lifestyle behaviors of pregnant women. The mental health status of pregnant women was measured using the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale-21. The Marital Disaffection Scale was used to assess the level of disaffection toward a spouse. Perceived social support was measured by the Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale. RESULTS: Pregnant women had a mean age of 26.46±5.09 years. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that there was a positive association between perceived social support and health-promoting behaviors. It was also found that marital disaffection was negatively associated with health-promoting behaviors (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The present study suggests that stress, anxiety, depression, and marital disaffection are negatively associated with health-promoting lifestyle behaviors, while social support is positively associated with the adoption of health practices in pregnant women. Understanding the complex interplay between psychosocial factors and healthy behaviors is crucial to improving healthy behaviors in pregnant women.

Unlocking the Benefits of Carbon Sequestration for Enhancing Soil Health

This abstract investigates the profound interconnection between carbon sequestration methods and soil health enhancement, crucial for sustainable land management. Evaluating various strategies, including cover cropping, reduced tillage, agroforestry, and biochar application, this study elucidates their role in augmenting soil organic carbon levels and fostering microbial diversity, thereby improving soil structure, water retention, nutrient cycling, and overall fertility. It examines the reciprocal impacts of carbon sequestration and soil health on agricultural yields, ecosystem resilience, and climate change mitigation. Furthermore, the research outlines barriers to widespread adoption, such as economic constraints and policy frameworks, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary approaches and technological innovations. Overall, this study advocates integrating carbon sequestration practices into agricultural techniques as a pivotal step towards mitigating climate change and fortifying soil health for sustainable land use and resilient ecosystems.

Human X-cromosome non-coding variation in latin american populations: a review / Variación no codificante del cromosoma X humano en poblaciones latinoamericanas: una revisión

ABSTRACT The human X-chromosome non-coding markers, such as short tandem repeats (STRs), single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertion-deletions (INDELs) and Alu insertions, are useful for revealing relationships among populations and for the identification of individuals. In the last decades, a number of studies have been performed to determine the genetic structure of Latin American populations by using X-chromosome markers. These studies provided useful information regarding the genetic composition of these populations and their relationship with Native American, Asian and European populations. One of the most interesting findings achieved by X-chromosome studies is the bias in the sex ratio of individuals that gave rise to the current Latin American populations, as it was previously observed through the analysis of uniparental markers, and which is undoubtedly evidenced in the differential inheritance of X-chromosome in comparison to autosomes. Besides, the genetic drift process that affected Native American populations is more pronounced in X-chromosome markers than in autosomes. The present review summarizes our current knowledge concerning X-chromosome non-coding polymorphisms studied in Latin American populations.

RESUMEN Los marcadores no codificantes del cromosoma X humano, como las repeticiones cortas en tándem (STR), los polimorfismos de un solo nucleótido (SNP), las inserciones-deleciones (INDEL) y las inserciones Alu, son útiles para revelar la relación existente entre poblaciones, y también para la identificación de personas. En las últimas décadas, se han realizado una serie de estudios para determinar la estructura genética de las poblaciones latinoamericanas, utilizando marcadores de cromosoma X. Estos estudios proporcionaron información útil sobre la composición genética de estas poblaciones y su relación con las poblaciones nativas americanas, asiáticas y europeas. Uno de los hallazgos más interesantes logrados en estos estudios es el sesgo en la proporción de sexos de los individuos que originaron las poblaciones latinoamericanas actuales, tal como se observó previamente a través del análisis de marcadores uniparentales, y que queda evidenciado por la herencia diferencial del cromosoma X en comparación con los autosomas. Además, el proceso de deriva genética que afectó a las poblaciones nativas americanas actuó de manera más pronunciada en los marcadores del cromosoma X que en los autosomas. La presente revisión resume nuestro conocimiento actual sobre los polimorfismos no codificantes del cromosoma X estudiados en poblaciones latinoamericanas.

Enhancing Nutritional Security and Combating Hidden Hunger with Climate-Resilient Millets

Hidden hunger, characterized by a deficiency in essential micronutrients, persists as a critical global issue, undermining human health and well-being. Despite advancements in food production, millions suffer from the consequences of inadequate access to vital nutrients. To address this multifaceted challenge and fortify nutritional security, millets have emerged as a compelling solution. These small-seeded grains, known for their climate resilience, offer a potent means to mitigate hidden hunger while ensuring sustainable food systems. Millets have garnered attention for their exceptional adaptability to adverse environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures. Their deep root systems enable them to thrive even in water-stressed regions, making them a reliable source of sustenance in a changing climate. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the ability of millets to maintain food production under challenging conditions is of paramount importance. Beyond their adaptability, millets are nutritional powerhouses. They are replete with essential nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, and crucial minerals such as iron and zinc. This nutritional profile positions millets as a valuable resource in addressing malnutrition and hidden hunger, which plague populations across the globe. Moreover, millets are gluten-free, offering an inclusive dietary option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This aspect contributes to their accessibility and relevance in diverse dietary regimes, aligning with the principles of equitable food security.The cultivation of millets is also aligned with broader sustainability goals. Millet farming practices encourage biodiversity conservation, reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, and protect fragile ecosystems. Additionally, the economic and social benefits of millet production are significant, providing diversified income sources for smallholder farmers and rejuvenating rural communities. Governments and policymakers worldwide are increasingly recognizing the potential of millets in sustainable agriculture. Policies, subsidies, and initiatives are being introduced to support millet production, market development, and nutritional programs, fostering food security, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods. As the global community seeks sustainable solutions to hidden hunger and nutritional insecurity, millets stand as a resilient and nourishing ally. Harnessing their potential, along with continued research, investment, policy support, and heightened consumer awareness, is pivotal to securing a sustainable, nourished, and equitable future for all. In conclusion, the integration of millets into global food systems offers a pathway to enhance nutritional security, combat hidden hunger, and advance broader sustainability objectives.

Soil Quality: A Critical Review

From plot to national scales, sampling, analysis, and visual inspection of soil are common methods used to evaluate its condition and potential for use. However, due to the complexity and site-specificity of soils, the legacy impacts of past land use, and trade-offs across ecosystem services, selecting relevant soil parameters and interpreting measurements are not simple tasks. Here, we go over the definition, methods of assessment, and choices and interpretations of indicators for soil quality and related concepts. Assessing soil condition and potential usage involves a range of methods, from small-scale sampling to nationwide analyses. Despite their prevalence, these approaches face challenges due to the intricate nature of soils, their site-specific characteristics, historical land use impacts, and the need to balance various ecosystem services. Selecting pertinent soil parameters and interpreting measurements becomes a complex task. In this context, we delve into the definition, assessment methods, and the choices and interpretations of indicators related to soil quality. Our focus is on widely used indicators within agricultural land use. Notably, explicit evaluations of soil quality for specific risks, functions, and ecosystem services remain limited. Furthermore, there is a scarcity of systems providing clear frameworks for interpreting measured indicator values, hampering their acceptance by both policymakers and land managers. We explore innovative indicators that shed light on often overlooked soil properties and processes. Biological/biochemical indicators are under-represented but show great potential. Soil quality assessment should specify targeted soil threats, functions and ecosystem services. Increasingly interactive assessment tools must be developed with target users.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management in Black Gram for its Yield and Quality in Coimbatore Tamil Nadu, India

A field experiment on integrated nutrient management practices for the field trial was conducted on a research farm at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences School of Agricultural Sciences. This experimental study was carried out in 2022-2023 during the Rabi seasons respectively. Black gram is one of the important pulse crops, grown throughout the country. There were 10 different treatment studies were implemented using a randomized block design. The results of the comparative analysis of the various treatments have highly stated that 75 % RDF + Soil application of 2 kg each of Rhizobial culture and Phosphobacteria+ Foliar spray of 1% TNAU Pulse wonder @ 30 and 45 DAS T7 is conducive for the cultivation of Blackgram (Vamban-8) with significant economics of production.

Geographical Indication of Fruit Crops in India and Its Protection Abroad

This paper explores the importance of Geographical Indications (GIs) as important tools to protect traditional products and knowledge unique to specific geographical regions, emphasizing India's role in this global framework. Using both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, we have analyzed the development, benefits, and challenges of the GI system in India, drawing from historical data, legal documentation, and recent GI registrations. Our findings highlight the critical impact of GIs on cultural preservation, rural development, legal frameworks, and marketing strategies. Furthermore, the study examines India's commitments under international agreements like TRIPS and the consequent domestic legislative actions. Highlighting recent GI registrations, particularly in the fruit sector, we have elucidated the various benefits of GIs to consumers, producers, and geographic regions alike. The paper is concluded by advocating for the strengthening and continuous evolution of the GI system to further harness its potential for cultural and economic enrichment

Comparison of Demography, Resource Utilization and Outcomes of COVID 19 patients admitted during First and Second waves at a tertiary care institute in Kanyakumari, South India

Introduction: The novel Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) affected India, predominantly in two time periods – the first wave from March to December 2020, and the second wave that raged from April to July 2021. Although the time duration of second wave was shorter than the first, the onslaught of the disease was much more severe during the second wave. Objective: To compare the demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients admitted during the first and second pandemic waves. Method: Demographic characteristics, duration of hospitalization, critical unit admission, and mortality data of 137 and 345 COVID-19 positive individuals, from first and second waves respectively, were retrospectively analyzed in a teaching hospital in South India. Descriptive statistics, Independent t test, chi square tests and regression analysis were used for statistical analysis, with significance level prefixed at 5%. Results: Median age of hospitalisation was 46.2 years and 48.39 years during first and second waves respectively, with male preponderance in second wave. There was a statistically significant difference in mean duration of stay (9.04 days v/s 7.53 days), mean Spo2 at admission (98.4% v/s 96.6%), ventilation requirement (1.5% v/s 8.7%), oxygen requirement and ICU care between the two waves.Conclusion: During the second COVID wave, significantly higher hospitalisation rates, intensive care requirements and inpatient mortality was observed. Elevated C Reactive Protein levels, lymphocytopenia, history of diabetes and other co-morbidities were associated with poor outcomes in both waves.

Correlation of oxidative stress and metabolic risk factors in apparently healthy adults

Background: Diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and dyslipidemia, all are the risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MS). Various studies have shown that each risk factor is associated with increased inflammation. hsCRP is a non-specific, sensitive inflammatory marker that is raised in various inflammatory conditions. Similarly, glutathione is an antioxidant which binds with ROS produced during inflammation and reduces damage caused by ROS. Aims and Objectives: This study has been planned to find the correlation between oxidative stress and metabolic risk factors in apparently healthy adults. Materials and Methods: We recruited apparently healthy adults (n = 120) and measured waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profile, Fasting blood sugar, serum GSH, and hsCRP in all the subjects. Seventy-seven subjects were found to have at least one or more metabolic risk factors (Group A) according to NCEP ATP III criteria with waist circumference >90 cm for male and >80 cm for female and 43 were without any metabolic risk factors (Group B). Thereafter, we compared the serum levels of hsCRP and serum GSH with persons having one or more risk factors for MS. Results: In this study, we observed that subjects with metabolic risk factors were having more oxidative stress indicated by increased hsCRP (4783.1 ± 2060.21) and low serum GSH (3.17 ± 0.81) in comparison to controls (1640.5 ± 547.47 and 4.79 ± 0.77, respectively). This increase in hsCRP and decrease in GSH in case group was statistically significant. We also found the higher basal hsCRP levels in control group as per AHA/CDC study. Conclusion: We observed in this study that Indians without any risk factors for MS have relatively higher CRP levels and are at intermediate risk for cardiovascular disease. It was also observed that as the number of metabolic risk factors increases, the levels of hsCRP increases, and serum GSH decreases. This indicates that more risk factors are associated with higher oxidative stress.

Análisis de la heterogeneidad en revisiones sistemáticas de cardiología publicadas entre 2000-2005 y 2011-2016 / Analysis of heterogeneity in cardiology systematic reviews published be-tween 2000-2005 and 2011-2016 / Análise da heterogeneidade em revisões sistemáticas de cardiologia publicadas entre 2000-2005 e 2011-2016

Introducción: la cardiología es una de las especialidades médicas que cuenta con más revisiones sistemáticas y metanálisis. Estudiar la metodología de las revisiones y anali­zar su heterogeneidad estadística es fundamental para garantizar su validez científica. Objetivo: describir la comparación de medidas de asociación, modelos estadísticos y grado de heterogeneidad en metanálisis de revisiones sistemáticas de intervenciones farmacológicas en cardiología, publicadas entre 2000-2005 y 2011-2016. Metodología: estudio analítico basado en la descripción y comparación de métodos estadísticos de revisiones sistemáticas de intervenciones farmacológicas en cardiología, publicadas en la biblioteca Cochrane. Para las variables cualitativas se estimaron frecuen­cias absolutas y relativas, mientras que para las cuantitativas se determinaron medias y desviaciones estándar, o medianas y rangos intercuartílicos, según su distribución. Para establecer la diferencia de medias se realizó la prueba t de Student y para la diferencia de proporciones el Chi cuadrado. Resultados: se incluyeron 54 revisiones sistemáticas, con un total de 1053 metanálisis, 6 revisiones con 240 metanálisis entre 2000-2005 y 48 revisiones con 813 metanálisis entre 2011-2016. La mayoría de metanálisis utilizaron el tratamiento estándar como grupo de comparación (56.6%), midieron desenlaces cualitativos nominales (86.3%), determinaron riesgos relativos (63.3%) y aplicaron modelos de efectos fijos (57.8%). En 2011-2016 se encontró una media del Índice de Higgins 17.5 menor que en 2000-2005 (p<0.05). Conclusión: se evidenció una disminución de la heterogeneidad estadística y un aumento en la implementación de modelos de efectos aleatorios, lo que da cuenta de una mayor rigurosidad a la hora de demostrar resultados verdaderamente significativos.

Introduction: cardiology is one of the medical specialties with the most systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Studying the methodology of the reviews and analyzing their statistical heterogeneity is essential to guarantee their scientific validity. Objective: to describe the comparison of association measures, statistical models and degree of heterogeneity in meta-analyses of systematic reviews of pharmacological interventions in cardiology, published between 2000-2005 and 2011-2016. Methodology: analytical study based on the description and comparison of statistical methods of systematic reviews of pharmacological interventions in cardiology, published in the Cochrane library. For the qualitative variables, absolute and relative frequencies were estimated, while for the quantitative ones, means and standard deviations, or medians and interquartile ranges, were determined, depending on their distribution. The Student's t test was used to establish the difference in means and the Chi square for the difference in proportions. Results: 54 systematic reviews were included, with a total of 1.053 meta-analyses, 6 reviews with 240 meta-analyses between 2000-2005, and 48 reviews with 813 meta-analyses between 2011-2016. Most meta-analyses used standard treatment as the comparison group (56.6%), measured nominal qualitative outcomes (86.3%), determined relative risks (63.3%), and applied fixed-effect models (57.8%). In the 2011-2016 period, an average of the Higgins Index was found to be 17.5 lower than in the 2000-2005 (p<0.05). Conclusion: there was evidence of a decrease in statistical heterogeneity and an increase in the implementation of random effects models, which accounts for greater rigor when it comes to demonstrating truly significant results.

Introdução: a cardiologia é uma das especialidades médicas com mais revisões sistemáticas e metanálises. Estudar a metodologia das revisões e analisar sua heterogeneidade estatística é essencial para garantir sua validade científica. Objetivo: descrever a comparação de medidas de associação, modelos estatísticos e grau de heterogeneidade em metanálises de revisões sistemáticas de intervenções farmacológicas em cardiologia, publicadas entre 2000-2005 e 2011-2016. Metodologia: estudo analítico baseado na descrição e comparação de métodos estatísticos de revisões sistemáticas de intervenções farmacológicas em cardiologia, publicadas na biblioteca Cochrane. Para as variáveis qualitativas foram estimadas frequências absolutas e relativas, enquanto para as quantitativas foram determinadas médias e desvios padrão, ou medianas e intervalos interquartis, dependendo de sua distribuição. O teste t de Student foi utilizado para estabelecer a diferença de médias e o qui-quadrado para a diferença de proporções. Resultados: foram incluídas 54 revisões sistemáticas, com um total de 1053 meta-análises, 6 revisões com 240 meta-análises entre 2000-2005 e 48 revisões com 813 meta-análises entre 2011-2016. A maioria das metanálises usou tratamento padrão como grupo de comparação (56.6%), mediu resultados qualitativos nominais (86.3%), determinou riscos relativos (63.3%) e aplicou modelos de efeito fixo (57.8%). Em 2011-2016, a média do Índice de Higgins foi 17.5 menor do que em 2000-2005 (p<0.05). Conclusão: evidenciou-se uma diminuição da heterogeneidade estatística e um aumento da implementação de modelos de efeitos aleatórios, o que confere maior rigor na demonstração de resultados verdadeiramente significativos.

The clinical impact of tricuspid regurgitation in patients with a biatrial orthotopic heart transplant / 医学前沿

In this study, we aim to elucidate the clinical impact and long-term course of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), taking into account its dynamic nature, after biatrial orthotopic heart transplant (OHT). All consecutive adult patients undergoing biatrial OHT (1984-2017) with an available follow-up echocardiogram were included. Mixed-models were used to model the evolution of TR. The mixed-model was inserted into a Cox model in order to address the association of the dynamic TR with mortality. In total, 572 patients were included (median age: 50 years, males: 74.9%). Approximately 32% of patients had moderate-to-severe TR immediately after surgery. However, this declined to 11% on 5 years and 9% on 10 years after surgery, adjusted for survival bias. Pre-implant mechanical support was associated with less TR during follow-up, whereas concurrent LV dysfunction was significantly associated with more TR during follow-up. Survival at 1, 5, 10, 20 years was 97% ± 1%, 88% ± 1%, 66% ± 2% and 23% ± 2%, respectively. The presence of moderate-to-severe TR during follow-up was associated with higher mortality (HR: 1.07, 95% CI (1.02-1.12), p = 0.006). The course of TR was positively correlated with the course of creatinine (R = 0.45). TR during follow-up is significantly associated with higher mortality and worse renal function. Nevertheless, probability of TR is the highest immediately after OHT and decreases thereafter. Therefore, it may be reasonable to refrain from surgical intervention for TR during earlier phase after OHT.

A medium- and long-term comparative observation on volumetric changes of cervical disc herniation after symmetrically or asymmetrically decompression and conservative treatment for cervical spondylotic myelopathy / 中华外科杂志

Objective: To compare the volumetric changes of cervical disc herniation (CDH) after cervical microendoscopic laminoplasty(CMEL),expansive open-door laminoplasty (EOLP) and conservative treatment. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted involving 101 patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy(CSM),at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery,the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from April 2012 to April 2021. The patients included 52 males and 49 females with an age of (54.7±11.8) years(range:25 to 86 years). Among them, 35 patients accepted CMEL treatment,33 patients accepted EOLP treatment,while 33 patients accepted conservative treatment. Volume data of CDH were measured by three-dimensional analysis of the initial and follow-up MRI images. The absorption rate and reprotrusion rate of CDH were calculated. The happening of resorption or reprotrusion was defined when the ratio was greater than 5%. The clinical outcomes and quality of life were evaluated by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score and the neck disability index (NDI).Quantitative data was analyzed by one-way ANOVA with post LSD-t test (multiple comparison) or Kruskal-Wallis test. Categorical data was analyzed by χ2 test. Results: The follow-up time of the CMEL group,EOLP group and the conservative treatment group were (27.6±18.8)months,(21.6±6.9)months and(24.9±16.3)months respectively with no significant difference(P>0.05). Changes of CDH volume in patients:(1) There were 96 CDH of 35 patients in the CMEL group,among which 78 showed absorption. The absorption frequency was 81.3%(78/96) and the absorption rate was ranged 5.9% to 90.9%;9 CDH showed reprotrusion,the reprotrusion frequency was 9.4% (9/96) and the reprotrusion rate was 5.9% to 13.3%;(2) There were 94 CDH of 33 patients in the EOLP group,of which 45 showed absorption. The absorption prevalence was 47.9% (45/94) and the absorption rate was 5.0% to 26.7%;20 CDH showed reprotruded,with the reprotrusion frequency of 21.3% (20/94) and the reprotrusion rate was 5.8% to 28.3%;(3) There were 102 CDH in 33 patients of the conservative group. Among them, 5 showed absorption. The absorption frequency was 4.9% (5/102),and the absorption rate was 7.2% to 14.3%;58 CDH showed reprotruded with the re-protrusion ratio of 56.9% (58/102) and the re-protrusion rate was 5.4% to 174.1%. The absorption ratio and reprotrusion ratio of the CMEL group were statistically different from EOLP group or the conservative group (P<0.01).The absorption ratio and reprotrusion ratio of the EOLP group was different from conservative group (all P<0.01). In terms of clinical outcomes, the excellent/good rate of the JOA score and NDI scores in the CMEL group were different from that of conservative group (all P<0.01) but not from that of the EOLP group(P>0.05). Conclusions: CMEL is an effective method for the treatment of CSM,making CDH easier to resorption compared to the EOLP or conservative treatment,thus making a better decompression effect on the nerves. This study enlightened on a new strategy for the clinical treatment of CSM.

Compliance and perception towards COVID-19 preventive protocols among hospital staff in a tertiary health facility, Southwest Nigeria

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak response in Nigeria was challenged by the existing weak health sector and the frontline health workers for COVID-19 pandemic response are exposed to the pathogen. One militating factor undermining the control and prevention of COVID-19 in Nigeria was poor compliance to preventive measures. This study assessed the compliance with COVID-19 prevention protocols among healthcare workers in Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional study and subjects were selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data collection was done using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire over a period of five months (JuneOctober, 2021). Data was analyzed using IBM, Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0 and p value was set at <0.05 as the threshold for statistical significance. Results: Majority (60.1%), of the respondents got information on COVID-19 protocols through seminars and workshops. However, more than a quarter (28.8%) of the respondents said the use of available PPE was suboptimal. More than one-third, (35.8%), of respondents believe the protocols are too strict. There is, however, good perception (93.3%), but relatively lower compliance (58.7%) of COVID-19 protocols among the staff. Age, marital status and sex were associated with compliance towards COVID-19 protocols in this study (P<0.05). Identified significant predictors (p<0.05) of compliance include age (AOR=1.944), female sex (AOR=7.829). Conclusion: Most respondents had good knowledge of availability, perception of effectiveness, but relatively lower compliance with the COVID-19 protocols in this facility. The government or hospital authority make sure that necessary steps to further boost compliance are taken

Plant stem cell extract from Coffea canephora shows antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin regenerative properties mediated by suppression of nuclear factor-κB

Plant cell cultures have become a promising production platform of bioactive compounds for biomedical and cosmetic uses in the last decades. However, the success so far has been limited. The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this unique biotechnology process to obtain a bioactive stem cell extract of Coffea canephora (SCECC) with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were determined in the SCECC by spectrophotometry. The chemical composition of the extracts was characterized by mass spectrometry. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the colorimetric methods of free radical scavenging 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) and the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP). The anti-inflammatory activity was determined in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages through the production of superoxide anion (O2•-), nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and the activity of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Moreover, the ability of SCECC to stimulate the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts was assessed. Five compounds were tentatively identified, two flavonoids, two phenolic acids, and one sugar. High phenolic content and antioxidant activity were observed in the SCECC. SCECC promoted the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and suppressed the pro-inflammatory mediators O2•-, NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, SCECC inhibited the NF-κB transcription factor. Therefore, we obtained evidence that the extract from C. canephora stem cells can be used as a natural agent against skin damage. Hence, it could be of interest in cosmetics for preventing skin aging.

Do static and dynamic pupillary parameters differ according to childhood, adulthood, and old age? A quantitative study in healthy volunteers

Purpose: We aimed to evaluate the normative pupillometry values and mean pupil dilatation speed in healthy individuals in different age groups in our study. Methods: The study group included 180 eyes of 90 healthy volunteers in different age groups. Group 1 consisted of 30 participants between the ages of 6 and 18, group 2 consisted of 30 participants aged 19–40, and group 3 consisted of 30 participants aged 41–75. Scotopic, mesopic, photopic, and dynamic measurements were taken with automatic pupillometry of Sirius Topographer (CSO, Firenze, Italy). The mean pupil dilation speed at the 18th second was calculated according to dynamic measurements. Results: Group 1 had a significantly larger pupil diameter than groups 2 and 3 in all static and dynamic parameters, and the mean pupil dilation speed was the highest among the groups (P < 0.001 for all static and dynamic parameters). In addition, group 2 had a significantly larger pupil diameter than group 3 (P < 0.001 for all static and dynamic parameters) and the mean pupil dilation speed was faster than group 3 (P = 0.027). Conclusion: We have presented the static and dynamic parameters and the mean speed of pupil dilatation at the 18th second with automatic pupillometry in healthy individuals in childhood, adulthood, and old age. More studies with higher participants and younger age children are needed.

A questionnaire-based study on knowledge and awareness about clinical trials among medical students

Background: Clinical trials (CTs) play a significant role in timely enhancement of health-care quality. It aids us to find an effective and safe treatment. Clinical research is rapidly developing in India and more graduates from medical, paramedical, and other scientific fields are enrolling for clinical research training. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to know the knowledge and awareness of CT among undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional and questionnaire-based study conducted among medical students at a tertiary care hospital in South India from January to February 2022. These questions were designed for assessing knowledge and awareness about CT. After validation, students were administered the questionnaire through the Google form. The data were recorded and analyzed using Microsoft Excel (2019 version) and the results are explained in frequency and percentage. Results: A total of 296 students were sent Google form-based questionnaire, out of which 278 responded with completely filled up questionnaire, giving a response rate of 94%. About 82% reported correctly that healthy normal human volunteers participate in phase 1 of CT. Majority of the students (95%) were aware what is informed consent. Only 98 (35%) students were aware that the request for authorization to conduct CT is given in form 44 as per drugs and cosmetics act. Around 43.16% responded correctly about the time period taken for completion of CT, majority of the students (90%) knew who is responsible for conduction of CT. One hundred and seventy (61.15%) reported correctly that adverse drug effects and new indication or use of the drug is studied in phase 4 and majority were aware that phase 4 is also known as post marketing surveillance. In the study, 204 (73.4%) students were aware that innovatory company of a new drug has to take approval from Institutional Review Board or Institutional Ethics Committee before phase 0 of clinical trial. Majority 240 (86.33%) of the students were aware what is pharmacovigilance. The last question in our study was to assess student’s interest in taking up clinical research in future, only 41% of students showed interest in choosing clinical research as a career option. Conclusion: In the present study, undergraduate medical students’ knowledge regarding clinical trial was average and limited number of students expressed their interest in conduct of CT. A scientifically conducted research helps in evidence-based medicine, which, in turn, improves the patient care and promotes health. A great number of medical students may pursue research in future; hence, it is crucial for medical students to be knowledgeable about clinical research. Therefore, formal, educative, and regular training of medical students is required for choosing clinical research as a career option and conduct high-quality research.