Exploring the association between internet addiction and time management among undergraduate nursing students.

BACKGROUND: Modern undergraduate nursing students face unique challenges as digital natives balancing internet activities with the substantial academic demands of nursing studies. Given the detrimental effects of internet addiction on students' academic performance and well-being, having time management skills is crucial. AIMS: To assess the prevalence and levels of internet addiction and time management and their association among undergraduate nursing students. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, survey-based research design was used. SETTING: The Faculty of Nursing at Alexandria University in Egypt. SUBJECTS: A stratified random sample consisting of 825 undergraduate nursing students. TOOLS: The internet addiction test and time management questionnaire were utilized to collect data. FINDINGS: Internet addiction was prevalent among 98.8% of students, with 56.0% exhibiting mild levels, 40.0% showing moderate levels, and 2.8% having severe levels. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between students' internet addiction and overall time management (r= - 0.387, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: A considerable level of internet addiction was revealed among the great majority of undergraduate nursing students; however, many students also demonstrated strong time management skills. Furthermore, internet addiction and overall time management were negatively associated, indicating that students with higher levels of internet addiction tend to have poorer time management abilities. RECOMMENDATIONS: Individual counseling and educational training programs should be developed to teach nursing students how to manage time and effectively plan internet usage.

Assessment of Non-Adherence to Anti-TB Drugs and Associated Factors Among Patients Attending TB Treatment Centers During COVID-19 Pandemic in Mogadishu, Somalia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic's first wave and subsequent lockdowns disrupted global healthcare systems, significantly impacting essential services including tuberculosis (TB) care. Non-adherence to anti-TB drugs is a critical concern, leading to treatment failure, drug resistance, and increased morbidity and mortality. This study assessed the rate and determinants of non-adherence to TB treatment among patients at TB centers during the first wave of the pandemic. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 15 to July 30, 2020, involving 255 TB patients at three centers in Mogadishu. Data were gathered using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8 (MMAS-8) through structured interviews and analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Results: The study found a 34.5% non-adherence rate during the pandemic. Key reasons for non-adherence included forgetting to take medication (33%), feeling well (29%), experiencing side effects (18%), and fear of contracting COVID-19 (16%). Significant factors associated with non-adherence were age groups 25-34 years (OR = 2.96, p = 0.024) and 35-44 years (OR = 4.55, p = 0.005), unemployment (OR = 2.57, p = 0.037), smoking (OR = 3.49, p = 0.029), tobacco use (OR = 4.15, p = 0.034), proximity to a health facility (OR = 0.44, p = 0.033), perception of healthcare providers as very friendly (OR = 0.24, p = 0.031) or friendly (OR = 0.45, p = 0.023), being in the continuous treatment phase (OR = 3.2, p < 0.001), and experiencing adverse treatment effects (OR = 2.42, p = 0.003). Conclusion: Non-adherence to anti-tuberculosis treatment was notably high in Mogadishu during the first wave of the pandemic, necessitating targeted interventions to improve adherence.

Sentiment of Nurses Towards Artificial Intelligence and Resistance to Change in Healthcare Organisations: A Mixed-Method Study.

BACKGROUND: Research identified preliminary evidence that artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, revolutionising various aspects of healthcare delivery, from diagnostics to treatment planning. However, integrating AI into healthcare systems in Egypt is challenging, particularly concerning healthcare professionals' acceptance and adoption of these technologies. This mixed-method study aimed to explore the sentiment of nurses at different organisational levels towards AI and resistance to change in healthcare organisations. METHODS: A mixed-method design was employed, with quantitative data collected through a survey of 500 nurses using the general attitudes towards AI and resistance to change scale and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 17 nurses. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. RESULTS: The survey demonstrated that positive attitudes were inversely correlated with resistance behaviour and resistance to change. Additionally, perceptions of AI's usefulness, ease of use and value were strongly and positively correlated with positive attitudes and negatively correlated with negative attitudes. Moreover, the influence of colleagues' opinions, self-efficacy for change and organisational support showed significant positive correlations with positive attitudes towards AI and negative correlations with negative attitudes. Qualitatively, nurses cited obstacles such as lack of familiarity with AI technologies, biases affecting decision-making, technological challenges, inadequate training and fear of technology replacing human interaction. Readiness for AI integration was associated with the necessity of training and the timing of AI use. CONCLUSION: Nurses demonstrated varied understanding of AI's applications and benefits. Some acknowledged its potential for efficiency and time-saving, while others highlighted a need for up-to-date knowledge. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.

Comprehending the disruptive influence of workplace gaslighting behaviours and mobbing on nurses' career entrenchment: A multi-centre inquiry.

AIM: To explore the disruptive influence of workplace gaslighting behaviours and mobbing on nurses' career entrenchment across multiple healthcare centres. DESIGN: A multi-centre cross-sectional. METHODS: Data were collected from 483 nurses from various healthcare settings in Egypt, spanning from January 2024 to February 2024. The Gaslighting at Work Questionnaire, Luxembourg Workplace Mobbing Scale and Career Entrenchment Scale were employed for data collection. RESULTS: The study revealed moderate levels of gaslighting, mobbing and nurses' career entrenchment. Also, there is a negative correlation between nurses' career entrenchment and both gaslighting and mobbing, while gaslighting and mobbing exhibit a positive correlation. The study also highlighted regional disparities in the prevalence of these phenomena, with the highest incidences noted in urban healthcare settings. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the critical impact of workplace gaslighting and mobbing on nurses' career entrenchment. REPORTING METHOD: The relevant reporting method has been adhered to, that is, STROBE. IMPLICATION FOR THE PROFESSION: The future of the nursing profession requires building productive nurses who can cope with negative workplace experiences. This could be achieved by cultivating a workplace culture that has zero tolerance for these experiences. Offering counselling services or employee assistance programmes to help nurses cope with the emotional toll of these negative experiences is a promising strategy. IMPACT: This study is the first to examine serious workplace practices like gaslighting and mobbing in a nursing context, emphasizing their effect on nursing-sensitive indicators like career entrenchment. It is one of the important initiatives geared towards upgrading the competitiveness and magnetism of healthcare organizations in the era of green human resources management. Results provide valuable insights for nurse leaders to control nursing turnover and shortage crises in different endeavours. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: In our study, nurses from diverse geographical regions and varied specialties actively participate, offering a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives.

'Health Camp' model: a unique approach for child vaccination in non-state armed actor controlled, inaccessible geographies in Somalia.

Decades of conflict, political instability, and limited infrastructure left Somalia facing significant challenges to offer consistent and equitable health services, especially for child vaccination. Recent data reveals alarming vaccination gaps, with 60% of children receiving no vaccinations, and only 11% completing required vaccines. Despite global support, an estimated 1.15 million children remain unvaccinated, half of them reside in inaccessible areas controlled by non-state armed actors. In this context, the Far-Reaching Integrated Delivery (FARID) project was initiated since October 2022 across 10 districts of Galmudug and Hirshabelle state in Somalia. Employing the 'Health Camp' model, FARID addresses social, structural, and gender barriers, adapting to ever-changing context of inaccessible regions by providing mobile health facilities and outreach health and nutrition services, including child vaccination. This approach effectively reached previously unreached population in Somalia's most difficult-to-reach areas. Implemented in phases, the project immunized 51,168 children (0-23 months) who had not received any prior vaccinations (23,753 boys and 27,415 girls), screened and treated 14,158 malnourished children (0-59 months) and vaccinated 11,672 pregnant women during March-December 2023. The project's success hinges on intensive community engagement, local partnerships, innovation in mapping and data management, and delivery of integrated services tailored to population needs. The project underscores the critical role of local community-based organizations and clan elders in reaching inaccessible populations through humanitarian negotiation amidst security challenges. The project has achieved significant milestones aligned with national health strategic plans, including progress towards universal health coverage and improved immunization access in Somalia's most challenging regions.

Main findings To improve immunization coverage in areas with access constraints, programs must be integrated, utilize innovation in data systems and mapping and have deep knowledge of humanitarian access negotiation techniques and principles.Added knowledge Rights-based approaches including participation, empowerment and accountability are key for a successful immunization program for equitable access.Global health impact for policy and action The strengthening of human rights for health through inclusion of populations living under non-state actors' control in national health policies and legal frameworks is key for equitable access to vaccination to prevent and stop mortalities and morbidities caused by outbreaks and pandemics.

Prevalence, Infection Intensity, and Risk Factors for Soil-transmitted Helminth Infections among School Children in Northwestern Tanzania.

Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STH) are among the neglected tropical diseases and infect more than 24% of the world population. The World Health Organization recommends regular monitoring of STH's prevalence and intensity following mass drug administrations to evaluate their effectiveness and inform future control strategies. This study evaluated the prevalence, intensity, and risk factors of STH infections among school children aged 6 to 14 years old in northwestern Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 728 school children in the Kagera region in 2021. Participants were selected using a two-stage cluster sampling method. A questionnaire was used to collect data on the risk factors. Stool samples were examined using the Kato-Katz technique. The data were analysed using STATA. The overall prevalence of STH was 56.2% (95% CI: 52.5-59.8, 409/728). About 5.7% and 1.1% of the infected children had moderate-intensity infections with Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura, respectively. Risk factors included the mother's occupation as a farmer (aOR: 1.2, p = 0.002) and not washing hands with water and soap (aOR: 1.4, p = 0.035). Washing one's hands after using the toilet (aOR: 0.6; p = 0.024) is a preventive measure against STH infections. STH was prevalent in the study area. The mother's occupation (farmer) and the lack of handwashing with water and soap influenced STH transmission. Conversely, washing hands after visiting the toilet and after playing with soil reduced the risk of STH infection.

Manuka combinations with nigella sativa and hydroxyurea in treating iron overload of pediatric ß-thalassemia major, randomized clinical trial.

Background: ß-thalassemia major is microcytic hypochromic anemia disorder inherited from parents, resulting from a mutation in the ß-globin locus. As a result, a quantitative defective hemoglobin synthesis and relative excess in α-globin is occurred. As such, frequent blood transfusion is required, that leads to iron overload. Iron overload results in several pathological complications, including cell death, tissue injury, organ dysfunction, and liver fibrosis. The present study examined the effectiveness of nigella Sativa and manuka honey combination or manuka honey alone to the conventional therapy (Deferasirox + blood transfusion) used for preventing and managing iron overload in pediatric ß-thalassemia major patients. Methods: One hundred sixty-five patients participated in this randomized, double-blind, standard therapy-controlled, parallel-design multisite trial. The patients were randomly allocated into three groups, receiving either 500 mg nigella sativa oil combined with manuka honey lozenge (344 mg) daily or manuka honey alone plus the conventional therapy for ten treatment months. Ferritin level, serum iron, transferrin saturation, total iron binding capacity, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase were determined at baseline and month 10. Results: Eventually, serum ferritin and iron were decreased significantly in the nigella sativa + manuka honey group as compared with the control group. Other clinical parameters were significantly impacted. The level of alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase were significantly decreased in the nigella sativa plus manuka honey group compared with the control group. Conclusion: Results showed that nigella sativa plus manuka honey was more effective than manuka alone or the conventional treatment alone in managing iron overload of ß-thalassemia major patients.

"If I die for touching him, let me die": a rapid ethnographic assessment of cultural practices and Ebola transmission in high-risk border regions of Tanzania.

BACKGROUND: Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a rare but contagious disease caused by Ebola Virus (EBOV). The first Ebola outbreaks were reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) before subsequent reported cases in Western and East African countries, including Uganda, which borders Tanzania. Proximity to EVD-infected countries raises the prospect of cross-border transmission, raising alarm in Tanzania. This study aimed to explore the cultural practices likely to prevent or escalate EVD transmission in the event of its outbreak in the country. METHODS: This rapid ethnographic assessment employed observation, interviews, and focus group discussions to collect data from people with diverse characteristics in five regions of Tanzania Mainland namely, Kagera, Kigoma, Mwanza and Songwe regions and Zanzibar Island. The qualitative data was then subjected to thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Cultural practices may escalate the transmission of EVD and hinder its prevention and control. These cultural practices include caring sick people at home, confirmation of death, mourning, and body preparation for burial. Communal life, ceremonies, and social gatherings were other aspects observed to have the potential for compounding EVD transmission and hindering its containment in case of an outbreak. CONCLUSION: Cultural practices may escalate EVD transmission as identified in the study settings. As such, Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) activities should be interventionist in transforming cultural practices that may escalate the spread of EVD as part of preparedness, prevention, and control efforts in the event of an outbreak.

Fulfilling last wishes: improving the compassionate discharge process.

BACKGROUND: Compassionate discharges (ComD), commonly known as rapid discharges, are urgent one-way discharges for critically ill hospitalised patients with death expected within hours or less than 7 days, to die at their place of choice-usually in their own home. Challenges abound in this time-sensitive setting when multiple parties must work together to prepare medically unstable patients for discharge, yet healthcare staff are largely unaware of the process, resulting in delays. METHODS: Process mapping, an Ishikawa diagram and a Pareto chart were used to identify barriers, which included timely acquisition of home equipment and medication and poor communication among stakeholders. In May 2020, the Quality Improvement (QI) team embarked on a pilot project to reduce family caregiver anxiety and delays in the ComD process while maintaining a success rate above 90% over a 12-month period. INTERVENTIONS: Three Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles were used to refine a ComD resource package that was developed; this consisted of a checklist, a kit and caregiver resources. This was to support nurses, doctors and families during this difficult and emotional transition. Items in the ComD resource package were revised iteratively based on user feedback, with further data collected to measure its usefulness. RESULTS: The 12-month ComD success rate over 3 PDSA cycles were 88.9%, 94.2% and 96.7%, respectively, after each cycle. There was a consistent reduction in the level of family anxiety before and after caregiver training and resources. Reasons for failed ComD included acute clinical deterioration or delays in obtaining home oxygen support. CONCLUSION: The ComD resource package allowed collaborative work across different disciplines, strengthening the safety and utility of ComD and allowing patients to die in their place of choice. These are ubiquitous across settings; this QI problem is thus relevant beyond our local institution.

Long-pulsed nd: YAG laser treatment of nail psoriasis: clinical and ultrasonographic assessment.

Nail psoriasis is a chronic, inflammatory condition which is difficult to treat, linked with greater psoriasis severity, and may be associated with anxiety and significant functional impairment of the quality of life. The 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser was reported to yield satisfactory results in the treatment of nail psoriasis.The aim of the study was to assess the clinical and ultrasonographic efficacy of long-pulsed 1064 nm Nd: YAG laser in the treatment of fingernail psoriasis and compare its effect to control fingernails.This intra-patient randomized controlled trial analyzed 86 fingernails collected from 13 patients suffering from cutaneous and nail psoriasis. The nails were randomized into two groups. Group A was treated with Nd: YAG laser once monthly for three sessions while group B served as control. Assessment took place at baseline, 1 and 3 months after the last treatment session. For scoring, the 32-points target NAPSI scoring systems was used. Additionally, two blinded dermatologists' score of improvement, patients' pain assessment by visual analogue score and ultrasonographic assessment were all performed.At the end of follow up, the medians of tNAPSI score, plate definition, matrix thickness, bed thickness and bed vascularity decreased significantly in the Nd: YAG laser treated group in comparison to baseline (p = 0.001, 0.006, 0.039, < 0.001 and 0.010, respectively). While, there was a non-significant reduction in median tNAPSI score in the control group at last follow up, however, ultrasonography recorded a significant reduction in the medians of plate definition, bed thickness and vascularity (p = 0.002, 0.011 and 0.033, respectively) from the baseline. Comparison of the Nd: YAG laser and the control groups showed no significant difference from baseline regarding the medians of tNAPSI, tNAPSI percentile improvement, pits count, blinded evaluation of photographs and ultrasonographic assessments.In conclusion, Nd: YAG laser showed clinical and ultrasonographic improvement in fingernail psoriasis. Ultrasonography is a useful noninvasive tool in diagnosing and monitoring the clinical and even the subclinical changes in nail psoriasis. Nail psoriasis although difficult to treat, may show spontaneous improvement.

Combined low-dose isotretinoin and long-pulsed nd: YAG laser in the treatment of post-acne erythema.

Post-acne erythema (PAE) is a bothering skin condition that emerges from inflammatory acne and persists after its resolution. It is characterized by telangiectasia and erythematous macules. the role of 1064-nm Nd: YAG when combined with low-dose isotretinoin in the acne erythema treatment. forty-eight PAE patients were involved in the study. They were divided into two groups; group (A) patients administering a low dose of oral isotretinoin (10 mg/day) and underwent a total of six two-week interval sessions of 1064 ND-YAG laser treatment, group (B) patients administering a low dose of oral isotretinoin (10 mg/day) only. All adverse effects experienced during the course of therapy were documented, and photos were taken before the start of the treatment and following the end of the treatment duration. Following the completion of the therapeutic intervention, a significant improvement in clinical condition was observed in both groups, with more improvement in group (A) compared to group (B) as evidenced by a notable improvement in the score on the Clinician Erythema Assessment Scale (CEAS) and also a significant decrease in the mean value of optical density of the erythema. combined 1064-nm Nd: YAG with low-dose isotretinoin may be an efficient and secure line in the PAE treatment. Also, the combined therapy had superior results when compared to low-dose isotretinoin alone.

Exploring the mediating influence of acceptance of change: A study on gerontechnology acceptance, mental well-being, and urban-rural disparities among older adults.

BACKGROUND: The global aging population necessitates leveraging technology for older adults' independence and mental well-being. Gerontechnology, tailored for older users, thrives when accessible and accepted, with the pivotal role of acceptance of change shaping its adoption. AIMS: This study investigates the mediating role of acceptance of change in the relationship between gerontechnology acceptance and mental well-being among older adults and explores disparities in urban and rural settings DESIGN & METHODS: A cross-sectional, correlational design adhering to STROBE guidelines collected data through an interview survey from 802 older adults. Instruments included the Older Adult Structured Survey, Short Version of Senior Technology Acceptance, Acceptance of Change Scale, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. RESULTS: The results underscore a significant correlation between technology adoption, adaptability, and mental well-being among 60-year-olds and older. Notably, an individual's openness to change significantly influences the technology-mental well-being relationship, emphasizing its impact on overall health. Urban areas exhibit a stronger positive correlation between technology acceptance and mental well-being, whereas rural regions demonstrate a more pronounced negative correlation. CONCLUSION: This research contributes valuable knowledge for addressing the unique challenges older adults face in diverse geographic settings, paving the way for targeted and effective initiatives. IMPLICATIONS: Nurses should prioritize understanding the nexus between gerontechnology acceptance, change adaptability, and mental wellness, integrating technology education and culturally sensitive interventions to enhance care strategies for older adults in diverse geographic settings. This study lays the groundwork for developing person-centered geriatric nursing care plans, underscoring the importance of harnessing technology for improved mental well-being.

Effect of Different Primers on the Shear Bond Strength of Orthodontic Brackets Bonded to Reinforced Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Substrate.

This in vitro study assessed the effect of different primers on the shear bond strength (SBS) and adhesive remnant index (ARI) of orthodontic brackets bonded to reinforced polyetheretherketone (PEEK) substrate. A total of 40 specimens were randomly distributed to two groups based on the primer used for orthodontic bonding: group 1 (control)-Transbond XT adhesive with Visio.link primer and group 2 (test)-orthodontic adhesive (Transbond XT) with traditional orthodontic primer. After bonding, specimens were thermocycled followed by SBS testing and ARI scoring of debonded specimens. Data were analyzed using the unpaired independent t-test and the Chi-square test. Group 1 specimens showed significantly higher SBS values (21.38 ± 1.48 MPa) compared to group 2 specimens (18.63 ± 1.29 MPa) (p < 0.0001). Adhesive remnant index scores showed no significant variations in bond failure modes and distributions between groups. The SBS obtained by the tested primers exceeded the clinically recommended value. Consequently, there is a comparable clinical application for both tested primers in orthodontic bonding, especially the traditional orthodontic primer, where the availability of Visio.link in clinical practice is not ensured.

Post Covid telogen effluvium: the diagnostic value of serum ferritin biomarker and the preventive value of dietary supplements. a case control study.

Telogen effluvium is characterized by excessive hair shedding usually following a stressful event. Ferritin has been used in clinical practice as a biomarker of nonanemic iron deficiency in cases of telogen effluvium. During the years of the COVID19 pandemic, telogen effluvium was reported as a part of post covid manifestations. As ferritin was also a biomarker for inflammation in cases with covid infection, this study was designed to evaluate the value of ferritin in cases with postcovid telogen effluvium one hundred patients recovering from covid 19 for 4-12 weeks were included in the study, detailed drug and laboratory history was obtained and serum ferritin level was measured. the mean serum level of ferritin among telogen effluvium patients was significantly lower than controls (68.52 ± 126 and 137 ± 137.597 ug/L respectively). Patients with telogen effluvium used significantly more azithromycin and ivermectin and significantly less vitamin C, D, lactoferrin and zinc than the controls Although serum ferritin is lower among telogen effluvium patients, it was still higher than the cutoff value for diagnosing nonanemic iron deficiency, we suggest that it will not be a good biomarkers in these cases. Our secondary outcomes showed that dietary supplements used during active infection such as vitamin C, D, lactoferrin and zinc might have a preventive value on postcovid hair loss, while azithromycin and ivermectin could have a negative long term effect on telogen effluvium.

The role of Empathy in the relationship between emotional support and caring behavior towards patients among intern nursing students.

BACKGROUND: The empathic relationship between nursing students and patients allows them to understand and address caring behavior for patients. Appropriate emotional support equips them to overcome the complexities and difficulties inherent in patient care. This support cultivates resilience and self-awareness, enabling students to manage their emotions effectively and establish meaningful connections and caring with their patients. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the role of empathy in the association between emotional support and caring behavior toward patients among intern nursing students at Alexandria and Damanhur University. SUBJECTS: The study subjects were 200 intern nursing students in their internship years of 2022-2023, randomly selected from an equal sample size from Alexandria and Damanhur University, Egypt. TOOLS: A questionnaire of social information& academics from students, the Toronto Empathy Questionnaire, the Caring Dimension Inventory, and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support are used to collect participants' data. RESULTS: Empathy was associated with caring behavior and emotional support among nursing students (P < 0.001), and higher levels of empathy indicated increased levels of caring behavior and emotional support. The caring behavior significantly increased when intern nursing students received more emotional support and among those who were not working in private hospitals (p < 0.001,&p = 0.023 respectively). Empathy acts as a mediating role in the relationship between emotional support and caring behavior. IMPLICATIONS: Implementing strategies to assist interns in navigating challenges and promoting a culture of support can facilitate the cultivation of caring behaviors. Shedding light on the interconnectedness of empathy, emotional support, and caring behavior can inform the design of interventions to strengthen empathy as a pathway to improving patient outcomes. CONCLUSION: Empathy is a mediating factor in the relationship between emotional support and caring behavior. This suggests that interventions promoting empathy may serve as a pathway to enhancing caring behavior among nursing students and strategies for improving patient care outcomes by strengthening empathy skills among healthcare professionals.

Optimized Ultraviolet-C Processing Inactivates Pathogenic and Spoilage-Associated Bacteria while Preserving Bioactive Proteins, Vitamins, and Lipids in Human Milk.

Holder pasteurization (HoP) enhances donor human milk microbiological safety but damages many bioactive milk proteins. Though ultraviolet-C irradiation (UV-C) can enhance safety while better preserving some milk proteins, it has not been optimized for dose or effect on a larger array of bioactive proteins. We determined the minimal UV-C parameters that provide >5-log reductions of relevant bacteria in human milk and how these treatments affect an array of bioactive proteins, vitamin E, and lipid oxidation. Treatment at 6000 and 12 000 J/L of UV-C resulted in >5-log reductions of all vegetative bacteria and bacterial spores, respectively. Both dosages improved retention of immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, IgM, lactoferrin, cathepsin D, and elastase and activities of bile-salt-stimulated lipase and lysozyme compared with HoP. These UV-C doses caused minor reductions in α-tocopherol but not γ-tocopherol and no increases in lipid oxidation products. UV-C treatment is a promising approach for donor human milk processing.

The hepatoprotective effect of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines on carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in rats through autophagy inhibition.

BACKGROUND: The liver serves as a metabolic hub within the human body, playing a crucial role in various essential functions, such as detoxification, nutrient metabolism, and hormone regulation. Therefore, protecting the liver against endogenous and exogenous insults has become a primary focus in medical research. Consequently, the potential hepatoprotective properties of multiple 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines inspired us to thoroughly study the influence of four specially designed and synthesized derivatives on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury in rats. METHODS AND RESULTS: Seventy-seven Wistar albino male rats weighing 140 ± 18 g were divided into eleven groups to investigate both the toxicity profile and the hepatoprotective potential of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinolines. An in-vivo hepatotoxicity model was conducted using CCl4 (1 ml/kg body weight, a 1:1 v/v mixture with corn oil, i.p.) every 72 h for 14 days. The concurrent treatment of rats with our newly synthesized compounds (each at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight, suspended in 0.5% CMC, p.o.) every 24 h effectively lowered transaminases, preserved liver tissue integrity, and mitigated oxidative stress and inflammation. Moreover, the histopathological examination of liver tissues revealed a significant reduction in liver fibrosis, which was further supported by the immunohistochemical analysis of α-SMA. Additionally, the expression of the apoptotic genes BAX and BCL2 was monitored using real-time PCR, which showed a significant decrease in liver apoptosis. Further investigations unveiled the ability of the compounds to significantly decrease the expression of autophagy-related proteins, Beclin-1 and LC3B, consequently inhibiting autophagy. Finally, our computer-assisted simulation dockingonfirmed the obtained experimental activities. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that derivatives of 4-phenyltetrahydroquinoline demonstrate hepatoprotective properties in CCl4-induced liver damage and fibrosis in rats. The potential mechanism of action may be due to the inhibition of autophagy in liver cells.

Exploring the prevalence, clinical spectrum, and determinants of uncontrolled hypertension in the emergency department: Insights from a hospital-based study in Somalia.

BACKGROUND: Uncontrolled hypertension (UH) is a significant public health issue in both developed and developing countries. This study aimed to analyze the clinical spectrum and degrees of severity of hypertension, antihypertensive use, and factors associated with UH. METHOD: Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at the emergency-department of Mogadishu Somali Turkey Training and Research Hospital from September 2021 to August 2022. A total of 278 hypertensive patients were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Data was entered into and cleaned by Excel and exported to SPSS version-26.0 for analysis. A binary logistic regression model (AOR, 95 % CI and p-value<0.05) was used to determine the predictors of UH. RESULTS: The prevalence of UH was 62 %(n = 172). Of the total respondents, 144(51.8 %) were males. The predominance of the respondents(n = 147, 52.9 %) were in the age group 40-69years. Almost 65.8 %(n = 183) of the participants were married. 112(40.3 %) of the participants had no formal education. The majority of the participants (n = 192, 69.1 % %) were unemployed. 225(81 %) patients had at least one or more coexisting diseases. Diabetes was the most common comorbid(47.4 %). The most common clinical manifestations observed in the study group were headache(21 %). According to the stages of hypertension, most of the patients have a Hypertensive crisis(20.9 %). Among the participants, 50 % were on calcium channel blockers(CCBs). Additionally, the majority (53.2 %) were receiving monotherapy. Patients who have no comorbidity (AOR = 0.178, 95 % CI:0.066-0.447), not performed diet control (AOR = 15.475, 95 % CI:6.666-35.929), and non-adherence to physical-activity (AOR = 5.585, 95 % CI:2.834-12.792) are independent predictors of UH. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of UH among patients with hypertension in Somalia was high. Unhealthy lifestyles and non-adherence to physical activity were the major modifiable risk factors for UH. Regular health education during follow-up visits by nurses and physicians is crucial in preventing the issue by providing continuous information on lifestyle practices and the potential complications associated with hypertension.

Efficacy of head postural correction program on craniovertebral angle, scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength in forward head posture subjects: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder that alters shoulder function. This study examined the efficacy of a corrective program involving postural correction exercises (PCEs), scapular stabilization exercises (SSEs), and kinesiotaping (KT) on improving craniovertebral angle (CVA), scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength (HGS) in individuals with FHP. METHODS: Sixty subjects (8 males and 52 females, 18-40 years old) were randomly allocated into four equal groups: Group A: received PCEs only, Group B: received PCEs and SSEs, Group C: received PCEs and KT, Group D: received PCEs, SSEs and KT. All subjects received treatment for 4 weeks (4 times/week) and postural advice. Outcome measures included cranio-vertebral angle (CVA), scapular position using Lateral Scapular Slide Test and dominant HGS using a CAMRY dynamometer that were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks post intervention. RESULTS: Comparing all groups post training revealed that there were statistically significant increases (p < 0.05) in all measured variables (CVA, scapular position and dominant HGS) in favor of group (D). CONCLUSION: Combination of PCEs, SSEs and KT interventions has achieved the best gains in terms of CVA, dominant HGS and regaining optimal scapular position in FHP subjects.

Assessment of antimicrobial activity and GC-MS using culture filtrate of local marine Bacillus strains.

Secondary metabolites produced by Bacillus species from marine sources encompass a variety of compounds such as lipopeptides, isocoumarins, polyketides, macrolactones, polypeptides and fatty acids. These bioactive substances exhibit various biological activities, including antibiotic, antifungal, antiviral, and antitumor properties. This study aimed to isolate and identify a particular species of Bacillus from marine water and organisms that can produce bioactive secondary metabolites. Among the 73 Bacillus isolates collected, only 5 exhibited antagonistic activity against various viral and bacterial pathogens. The active isolates were subjected to 16S rRNA sequencing to determine their taxonomical affiliation. Among them, Bacillus tequilensis CCASU-2024-66 strain no. 42, with the accession number ON 054302 in GenBank, exhibited the highest inhibitory potential. It displayed an inhibition zone of 21 mm against Bacillus cereus while showing a minimum zone of inhibition of 9 mm against Escherichia coli and gave different inhibition against pathogenic fungi, the highest inhibition zone 15 mm against Candida albicans but the lowest inhibition zone 10 mm was against Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum. Furthermore, it demonstrated the highest percentage of virucidal effect against the Newcastle virus and influenza virus, with rates of 98.6% and 98.1%, respectively. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis was employed to examine the bioactive substance components, specifically focusing on volatile and polysaccharide compounds. Based on these results, Bacillus tequilensis strain 42 may have the potential to be employed as an antiviral agent in poultry cultures to combat Newcastle and influenza, two extremely destructive viruses, thus reducing economic losses in the poultry production sector. Bacteria can be harnessed for the purpose of preserving food and controlling pathogenic fungi in both human and plant environments. Molecular docking for the three highly active derivatives 2,3-Butanediol, 2TMS, D-Xylopyranose, 4TMS, and Glucofuranoside, methyl 2,3,5,6-tetrakis-O-(trimethylsilyl) was carried out against the active sites of Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Candida albicans, Newcastle virus and influenza virus. The data obtained from molecular docking is highly correlated with that obtained from biology. Moreover, these highly active compounds exhibited excellent proposed ADMET profile.