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1.
Cureus ; 15(11): e49252, 2023 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38143615

ABSTRACT

This comprehensive review delves into the impact and challenges of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in nursing science and healthcare. AI has already demonstrated its transformative potential in these fields, with applications spanning from personalized care and diagnostic accuracy to predictive analytics and telemedicine. However, the integration of AI has its complexities, including concerns related to data privacy, ethical considerations, and biases in algorithms and datasets. The future of healthcare appears promising, with AI poised to advance diagnostics, treatment, and healthcare practices. Nevertheless, it is crucial to remember that AI should complement, not replace, healthcare professionals, preserving the essential human element of care. To maximize AI's potential in healthcare, interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical guidelines, and the protection of patient rights are essential. This review concludes with a call to action, emphasizing the need for ongoing research and collective efforts to ensure that AI contributes to improved healthcare outcomes while upholding the highest standards of ethics and patient-centered care.

2.
Cureus ; 15(9): e44687, 2023 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37809174

ABSTRACT

Monkeypox (Mpox), a rare zoonotic viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, has been gaining attention due to its potential for human-to-human transmission and its clinical resemblance to other poxvirus infections, such as smallpox and chickenpox. Enhancing nursing care for monkeypox patients is imperative to manage and contain its spread effectively. This review analyzes the key aspects of enhancing nursing care in monkeypox patients, focusing on differential diagnoses, prevention measures, and therapeutic interventions. Differential diagnosis is crucial in terms of the early recognition and management of monkeypox. Given its similarity to other poxvirus infections, a thorough assessment of clinical symptoms, travel history, and exposure to potential reservoir hosts is essential. Nursing professionals play a pivotal role in eliciting comprehensive patient histories and relaying this information to the medical team for accurate diagnosis. Prevention measures constitute a vital component of nursing care in monkeypox management. Implementing stringent infection prevention and control practices, including isolation protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, and hand hygiene, is imperative to curbing nosocomial transmission. Nurses are at the forefront of enforcing these measures, educating patients, families, and healthcare staff about their significance, and ensuring strict adherence. Therapeutic interventions in monkeypox largely focus on supportive care and symptom management. Nurses occupy a central role in administering antiviral medications, providing wound care for skin lesions, and monitoring patients for potential complications such as secondary bacterial infections. Psychosocial support is equally important, as patients often experience fear and anxiety due to the disease's contagious nature. Nursing professionals offer compassionate care, address patients' emotional needs, and facilitate communication between patients and their families. Enhancing nursing care for monkeypox entails a multifaceted approach involving differential diagnoses, prevention measures, and therapeutic interventions. Nursing professionals serve as frontline caregivers, pivotal in early diagnosis, effective prevention strategies, and comprehensive patient management. As the global healthcare community faces an influx of emerging infectious diseases, the lessons learned from managing monkeypox can contribute to the creation of a more resilient and responsive nursing workforce capable of effectively addressing future health challenges.

3.
Cureus ; 15(4): e38186, 2023 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37261151

ABSTRACT

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men, and its treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Prostate surgery can often result in erectile dysfunction (ED), significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Penile rehabilitation techniques have been developed to restore erectile function following prostate surgery. This review discusses the different penile rehabilitation techniques available, their effectiveness, and the factors affecting their success. This paper also addresses the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of ED in these patients and the need for personalized and tailored rehabilitation plans. By providing a comprehensive understanding of penile rehabilitation techniques, this paper can assist clinicians in restoring the quality of life of patients who have undergone prostate surgery.

4.
Cureus ; 15(5): e38388, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37265892

ABSTRACT

Hepatitis A is a viral infection that can cause liver inflammation and damage. Hepatitis A outbreaks in children are of particular concern due to the potential long-term health effects they can have. In recent years, several outbreaks of hepatitis A have been reported worldwide, affecting mainly children and young adults. Since 2016, hepatitis A outbreaks have been reported in 37 states of the United States alone, involving approximately 44,650 cases, 27,250 hospitalizations, and 415 deaths as of September 23, 2022. The epidemiology of hepatitis A outbreaks in children is complex and multifactorial, with various risk factors such as poor sanitation and hygiene practices, crowded living conditions, low socioeconomic status, lack of vaccination, and travel to endemic areas. Investigations of outbreaks involve identifying suspected cases, laboratory testing, contact tracing, and investigation of possible sources of infection. Contaminated food and water, poor sanitation and hygiene procedures, intimate contact with infected people, and environmental variables are all potential causes of outbreaks in children. Preventive measures include vaccination, improving sanitation and hygiene practices, food safety and inspection, and health education and community outreach programs. Understanding the epidemiology of hepatitis A outbreaks in children and the risk factors associated with infection is essential for developing effective preventive strategies and reducing the global burden of this disease.

5.
Cureus ; 15(5): e38380, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37265899

ABSTRACT

This review article explores the potential of ChatGPT as a substitute for diabetes educators. Diabetes is a prevalent chronic disease that requires ongoing education and support for patients to effectively manage their condition. However, there is a shortage of diabetes educators, and traditional education methods have limitations in addressing patients' individual needs. ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence technology that offers a personalized and interactive approach to education and support. In this review, we provide an overview of ChatGPT technology, discuss the challenges facing diabetes educators, review evidence supporting the use of ChatGPT in diabetes education, and examine ethical considerations related to its use. We also provide recommendations for further research and development of ChatGPT in diabetes education and integration into clinical practice. ChatGPT has the potential to improve access to education and support for patients with diabetes, but further research is needed to better understand its effectiveness and limitations. It is important to ensure that ChatGPT is developed and integrated in an ethical and equitable manner to maximize its potential benefits and minimize potential risks.

6.
Cureus ; 15(5): e39132, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37378166

ABSTRACT

Adolescent drug overdose deaths are a growing public health crisis, with significant consequences for individuals, families, and communities. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of prevention strategies to combat the devastating effects of adolescent drug overdose. Drawing on a comprehensive literature search of electronic databases, the article evaluates the effectiveness of prevention strategies and identifies risk factors associated with overdose deaths. The review outlines three key prevention strategies, including education and awareness programs, access to treatment and support services, and policy changes and regulations. The article also discusses the limitations and challenges of prevention efforts, including limited access to treatment and support services, the need for more research on effective prevention strategies, and the ongoing challenges posed by the opioid epidemic and the emergence of new synthetic drugs. Overall, this review highlights the urgent need for continued research, innovative prevention strategies, and effective policies to prevent adolescent drug use and overdose deaths and promote healthier communities for all.

7.
Cureus ; 15(5): e38972, 2023 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37313083

ABSTRACT

E-cigarette use among middle and high school students has become a growing public health concern in recent years. The prevalence of e-cigarette use among adolescents has increased dramatically, and there are serious health risks associated with this behavior. This review article provides an overview of e-cigarette use in middle and high school students, including the prevalence of use, contributing factors, health effects, policies and regulations surrounding e-cigarette use in schools, and interventions for preventing e-cigarette use in adolescents. The article highlights the need for effective prevention and cessation programs, increased public awareness about the risks of e-cigarette use, and stronger regulations on e-cigarette products. Addressing e-cigarette use among youth is critical for protecting the health and well-being of future generations, and it is important for parents, educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers to work together to prevent and reduce e-cigarette use among adolescents and promote healthy behaviors.

8.
Cureus ; 15(4): e37705, 2023 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37206510

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on a global scale, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The virus affects multiple organ systems, including the respiratory, cardiovascular, and coagulation systems, leading to severe pneumonia in some patients. Moreover, COVID-19 patients with severe pneumonia have a high incidence of thrombotic events, which can result in significant morbidity and mortality. Given the potential benefits of anticoagulation therapy in COVID-19 patients with thrombotic complications, recent studies have proposed high-dose prophylactic anticoagulation (HD-PA) therapy as a potential treatment option. In fact, some studies have suggested that HD-PA therapy may be more effective in reducing thrombotic events and mortality rates than other treatment options. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits and risks of HD-PA therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia patients. By synthesizing and analyzing the latest available research, we highlight patient selection criteria and discuss the optimal dosage, duration, and timing of therapy. Additionally, we review the potential risks associated with HD-PA therapy and provide recommendations for clinical practice. Ultimately, this review provides valuable insights into the use of HD-PA therapy in COVID-19 pneumonia patients and paves the way for further research in this critical area. By exploring the benefits and risks of this treatment option, we hope to provide healthcare professionals with the information they need to make informed decisions about the best course of treatment for their patients.

9.
Cureus ; 15(4): e37979, 2023 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37223185

ABSTRACT

Menopause is a physiological event in women's lives that typically transpires in midlife, denoting the cessation of ovarian function and ultimately leading to the end of reproductive capacity. However, women with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders may encounter unique challenges during this period because of the interaction between hormonal changes and their pre-existing mental health conditions. This literature review aims to investigate the consequences of menopause on women with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, including modifications in symptomatology, cognitive function, and quality of life. Potential interventions will also be examined, including hormone replacement therapy and psychosocial support. The study findings suggest that menopause can worsen symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, and may also impair cognitive function, resulting in memory and executive function difficulties. Nevertheless, hormone replacement therapy and psychosocial support could offer potential avenues to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for women with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders during menopause.

10.
Int Urogynecol J ; 34(6): 1165-1173, 2023 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36708406

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Cystoscopy has been routinely performed in patients suspected to be suffering from bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) across the globe. The methodology reported by various guidelines appears to have differences in the techniques and hence there is a need for a review of all those techniques in order to arrive at a consensus. The aim was to review the literature describing the prevalent techniques of cystoscopy for patients of BPS/IC and try to evolve a consensus. METHODS: The group the Global Interstitial Cystitis, Bladder Pain Society (GIBS) has worked collectively to systematically review the literature using the key words, "Cystoscopy in Hunner's lesions, bladder pain syndrome, painful bladder syndrome and interstitial cystitis" in the PubMed, COCHRANE, and SCOPUS databases. A total of 3,857 abstracts were studied and 96 articles referring to some part of technique of cystoscopy were short-listed for review as full-length articles. Finally, six articles with a description of a technique of cystoscopy were included for final tabulation and comparison. The group went on to arrive at a consensus for a stepwise technique of diagnostic and therapeutic cystoscopy in cases of BPS/IC. This technique has been compared with the previously described techniques and may serve to be a useful practical guide for treating physicians. CONCLUSION: It is important to have a uniform standardized technique for performing a diagnostic and therapeutic cystoscopy in patients with BPS/IC. Consensus on one such a technique has been arrived at and described in the present article.


Subject(s)
Cystitis, Interstitial , Humans , Consensus , Cystitis, Interstitial/diagnosis , Cystitis, Interstitial/therapy , Cystitis, Interstitial/pathology , Cystoscopy/methods , Pelvic Pain/diagnosis , Pelvic Pain/etiology , Pelvic Pain/pathology , Urinary Bladder/pathology
11.
Environ Sci Pollut Res Int ; 30(13): 38869-38885, 2023 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36585593

ABSTRACT

In the present study, tin oxide (SnO2) was synthesized by advocating the principles of green chemistry for the photo-mediated degradation of pollutants, antimicrobial, and as an antitumor agent. Bioactive SnO2 (nanorods & nanospheres) were fabricated using Tinospora crispa stem extract (TCSE) via sol-gel technique and characterized extensively. XRD, UV-VIS, FTIR, and XPS studies confirmed the formation of crystalline and well stoichiometric pure phase of SnO2 nanostructures with optical bandgap 3.2 to 3.5 eV. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results demonstrated the effect of secondary phytoconstituents on the shape of SnO2 in a concentration dependent manner. The morphological variations in the obtained nanostructures attributed to the nucleation density and coalescence effect leading to the formation of nanorods with an average diameter 23-25 nm whereas the average particle size of the nanospheres obtained was found to be 23-30 nm. The zeta potential value of SnO2 nanorods was high (- 58.9 mV) indicating the higher stability compared to nanospheres (- 15.6 mV). The SnO2 nanostructures were investigated for the simultaneous degradation of methylene blue with degradation efficiency of 92.3% and 47.3% for rhodamine B in mono system and 72.3%, 47.7% respectively for binary dye system. The anticancer activity of SnO2 nanorods explored against human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells revealed a concentration dependent cytotoxic effect reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced cell death. Additionally, efficient antibacterial activity of SnO2 was established using E.coli. Multifaceted applications of Tinospora crispa stem extract mediated SnO2 nanostructures.


Subject(s)
Nanostructures , Tinospora , Humans , Sunlight , Nanostructures/chemistry , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Bacterial Agents/chemistry , Tin Compounds/chemistry , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Catalysis
12.
Narra J ; 3(2): e174, 2023 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38454969

ABSTRACT

Prostate cancer treatment can significantly impact erectile function, and penile rehabilitation has been proposed to improve the impacts. However, the effectiveness of penile rehabilitations after treatment of prostate cancer is scarce. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions of penile rehabilitation program after prostate cancer treatment. We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases, PubMed and Google Scholar, to identify randomized controlled trials that evaluated interventions for penile rehabilitation after prostate cancer treatment. Studies that met our inclusion criteria were systematically reviewed, and data were synthesized and analyzed. We identified 11 randomized controlled trials that evaluated different interventions for penile rehabilitation after prostate cancer treatment. The interventions included the use of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, intracavernous injections, vacuum erection devices, and penile rehabilitation programs. The data suggest that these phosphodiesterase inhibitors, intracavernous injections, vacuum erection devices, and penile rehabilitation programs are promising in improving erectile function after prostate cancer treatment. However, the optimal timing and duration of these interventions remain unclear, and there is a need for further research to determine their long-term effectiveness and safety. Healthcare providers should consider individualized approaches to penile rehabilitation, taking into account patient characteristics and preferences.

13.
Narra J ; 3(2): e156, 2023 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38454970

ABSTRACT

The global impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been significant, affecting countless individuals worldwide. The existence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to considerable levels of illness and mortality. While considerable attention has been devoted to the immediate handling of COVID-19, there is a growing concern about the long-term effects of this disease. The recent studies have brought to light various complexities associated with COVID-19, encompassing both respiratory and non-respiratory problems such as lung scarring, heart diseases, neurological effects, and psychological consequences. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the persistent repercussions of COVID-19. It presents a summary of recent studies that have examined the frequency and severity of these complications, as well as an exploration of the potential mechanisms that contribute to their development. Specifically, it delves into the role of immune dysregulation, prolonged inflammation, and dysfunction of blood vessel linings in the origin of these complications. Moreover, the clinical significance of these long-term consequences is discussed, including their potential impact on healthcare systems and society as a whole. Our review highlights the necessity for continuous monitoring and management of patients diagnosed with COVID-19, along with the importance of conducting follow-up studies over an extended period to determine the most effective strategies for prevention and treatment of these complications.

14.
J Family Med Prim Care ; 12(12): 3048-3054, 2023 Dec.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38361856

ABSTRACT

Prenatal supplements are commonly used to support maternal health and fetal development during pregnancy. However, there are concerns regarding their efficacy and safety. This review article provides a critical evaluation of prenatal supplements, including their types, benefits, criticisms, factors affecting their efficacy, and popular brands. It also offers recommendations for their use and identifies future research directions. Our analysis suggests that while prenatal supplements can offer important benefits, including reduced risk of birth defects and improved fetal growth and development, there are also concerns regarding their regulation, dosages, and potential harm to the mother and fetus. Pregnant women should carefully evaluate the ingredients, dosages, efficacy, and safety of prenatal supplements with the guidance of their healthcare provider. Future research should focus on standardizing dosages and regulation of prenatal supplements to ensure consistent quality, safety, and efficacy.

17.
Cureus ; 14(9): e29398, 2022 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36304373

ABSTRACT

An ampullary carcinoma (AC) is defined as cancer that arises in the ampulla of Vater (AV). It is a tiny opening in the beginning segment of the small intestine called the duodenum. Pancreatic and bile duct fluids are pumped into the intestines via the AV. There are various factors listed as the causes of AC. A 45-year-old male presented to the emergency department with complaints of pain in the abdomen for two months, vomiting for two days, and a history of fever for four days, which was persistent in nature. He had been operated on for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) stenting two months back due to pain in the abdomen. The patient underwent investigations such as blood tests, histopathology, ultrasonography, abdominal contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT), and ampullary mass biopsy, based on which a final diagnosis was made. The patient was operated on by the Whipple surgical procedure and was later treated with antibiotics and analgesics. Surgical management for AC is a novel treatment chosen instead of chemotherapy. Although early-stage AC can be cured with radical surgery, around half of the patients experience tumor recurrence. The prognosis of our patient was good.

18.
Cureus ; 14(8): e28194, 2022 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36158415

ABSTRACT

Background Globally, low vitamin B12 levels, undernutrition, and folic acid deficiency are more common among the geriatric population. Nevertheless, low vitamin serum levels may reveal a deficiency in the routine following of nutrition recommendations. In this study, we aimed to estimate the serum vitamin B12 levels among the elderly. Methodology This study was conducted in Wardha city among 90 elderly people over 60 years of age using a cross-sectional research design. Blood samples were utilized to estimate serum vitamin B12 levels by the macroparticle immunosorbent assay method using Abbott's IMX system (Abbott Park, IL, USA). The data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 24.0 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY, USA). Numbers and percentages were used to represent qualitative characteristics. The mean (±SD) and median of a quantitative variable were used to compare groups using the analysis of variance test. Results In total, 57 (63.33%) of the elderly population had low (<110 pmol/L) vitamin B12 levels, 30 (33.33%) had medium (110-180 pmol/L) vitamin B12 levels, and three (3.34%) had high (>180 pmol/L) vitamin B12 levels. The mean was 168.11 ± 192.47 pmol/L for the estimation of the vitamin B12 level. Conclusions Untreated vitamin B12 deficiency is common among the elderly of both genders. However, there is no particular risk category for screening that can be recognized. Therefore, it is appropriate to screen the elderly biochemically. General practitioners play a key role in the initial vitamin B12 insufficiency diagnosis.

19.
Nepal J Ophthalmol ; 14(27): 72-81, 2022 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35996906

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to evaluate outcomes and complications of temporary suture tarsorrhaphy (TST) in cases of impending corneal ulcer perforation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Case records of patients who underwent temporary suture tarsorrhaphy at Mechi Eye Hospital during a period of 18 months were retrospectively evaluated. All the smear positive fungal keratitis with more than 5mm infiltration involving central and/or paracentral cornea with impending corneal perforation were included. Demographic and clinical profile including - visual acuity, indication for temporary suture tarsorrhaphy, duration of signs and symptoms were noted. The outcomes were evaluated after 1 month and 3 months post tarsorrhaphy, in relation with time to epithelial healing, anatomical success rate, best corrected visual acuity, complications associated with non-healing corneal ulcer, number of temporary suture tarsorrhaphy needed and complications of TST. RESULTS: The study included 119 cases of smear positive fungal keratitis with mean age of 51.34 + 15.56 years. In this study, 56.30% of the patients developed epithelial healing at 2 - 4 weeks with mean duration of 23.24 + 12.09 days of temporary suture tarsorrhaphy. Out of 119 patients, the corneal ulcer healed in 84 patients (70.6%), whereas 35 (29.4%) did not heal. Among those with non-healing ulcers, 15 patients (12.6%) had to undergo evisceration. The anatomical success rate was 87.39% which was statistically significant (P = 0.001). Regarding visual outcome, in 62 patients (52.10%) BCVA improved by 2 or more lines, which was statistically significant (P<0.05) resulting in a functional success of 26.89%. CONCLUSION: This study concludes that temporary suture tarsorrhaphy could be a useful option for management of corneal ulcers with impending perforation in eye centers with limited resources settings and high disease burden with good anatomical and functional outcome.


Subject(s)
Corneal Perforation , Corneal Ulcer , Eye Infections, Fungal , Adult , Aged , Corneal Perforation/diagnosis , Corneal Perforation/etiology , Corneal Perforation/surgery , Corneal Ulcer/diagnosis , Corneal Ulcer/etiology , Corneal Ulcer/surgery , Eye Infections, Fungal/diagnosis , Eye Infections, Fungal/surgery , Eyelids/surgery , Humans , Middle Aged , Retrospective Studies , Sutures/adverse effects , Ulcer
20.
Nat Prod Res ; 36(8): 2166-2170, 2022 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33176479

ABSTRACT

Investigation of major volatile and non-volatile phytochemicals from flowers of different cultivars of Camellia sinensis was performed. A total of 21 volatile constituents and 9 fatty acids were identified by gas chromatography -mass spectrometry (GC-MS). For evaluation of non-volatile constituents, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (RP-HPLC-DAD) is used. Spectral quantification of polyphenols revealed 48.88 - 60.01 mg/gm gallic acid equivalent polyphenols. Catechins estimated up to 1.14%, while theanine and caffeine content varies from 0.13% to 0.41% and 0.07% to 0.13%, respectively. Further assessment of antioxidant activity by different assays (DPPH, FRAP, RPA and FIC) showed commendable antioxidant potential. The results of antimicrobial studies showed growth inhibition of Candida albicans (17.0 ± 0.00-10.0 ± 0.00 mm) and Aspergillus niger (5 ± 0.00 to 12.5 ± 0.70 mm), indicating antifungal potential. The antiglycation assay also showed inhibition of BSA up to 94%. This study of C. sinensis flowers indicated their immense prospective as sustainable source of bioactive natural compounds.


Subject(s)
Camellia sinensis , Antioxidants/chemistry , Camellia sinensis/chemistry , Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid/methods , Flowers/chemistry , Phytochemicals/analysis , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Prospective Studies
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