Search results for “treatments

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82 articles
Human Health Research Open Access

Progress in Rehabilitation Treatments for Sepsis Patients in ICU

May 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-22-4146
Wang LingCorresponding author Department of Intensive Care Unit, People’s Hospital of Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Kaili, Guizhou 556000, China

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

Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Cancer Prevention and Cure (Part 1)

Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-7669.ject-19-3040
Kader Mohiuddin AbdulCorresponding author Secretary & Treasurer, Dr. M. Nasirullah Memorial Trust, Tejgaon, Dhaka 1215

Many lay people along with some so called “key opinion leaders” have a common slogan “There's no answer for cancer”. Again, mistake delays proper treatment and make situation worse, more often. Compliance is crucial to obtain optimal health outcomes, such as cure or improvement in QoL. Patients may delay treatment or fail to seek care because of high out-of- pocket expenditures. Despite phenomenal development, conventional therapy falls short in cancer management. There are two major hurdles in anticancer drug development: dose-limiting toxic side effects that reduce either drug effectiveness or the QoL of patients and complicated drug development processes that are costly and time consuming. Cancer patients are increasingly seeking out alternative medicine and might be reluctant to disclose its use to their oncology treatment physicians. But there is limited available information on patterns of utilization and efficacy of alternative medicine for patients with cancer. As adjuvant therapy, many traditional medicines shown efficacy against brain, head and neck, skin, breast, liver, pancreas, kidney, bladder, prostate, colon and blood cancers. The literature reviews non-pharmacological interventions used against cancer, published trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Why New Drugs, Treatments, and Medical Devices Still Needs to be Tested Clinically Before Making it Available in the Market?

Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-19-2618
Patel NaiyaCorresponding author Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Public Health, Long Island University, Brooklyn, New York, United States, PMBA candidate, MPH, BDS.

Objective Testing a new drug, treatment, and medical device clinically is critically important before prescribing it to patient. Not determining the drug’s safety and efficacy through clinical trials might impose life threatening outcomes on its consumers. The research paper describes the critical factors associated for testing any new drugs clinically, as limited research is performed in this field of public health. Study Design A qualitative systematic literature review was performed by mining relevant original peer reviewed research papers as well as some online resources like MedlinePlus due to limited availability of studies on such critical topic. Methods The databases used were Web of Sciences core collection, PubMed, Google scholar. The keywords used to search research papers were “clinical trials”, “testing new drugs”, “history of testing drugs”, “evidence-based medicine”. Conclusion Drugs which are prescribed to critical target population like pregnant women and children should be more often clinically tested if possible as majority of them are available in the market without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The abusive potential of any new drug could end up taking lives of innocent individuals. More evidence-based medicine can help translate research results on a heterogeneous population efficiently.

Antioxidant Activity Open Access

Anti-Oxidant Phytochemicals as Potential Treatments for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2471-2140.jaa-14-616
Milward E.A.Corresponding author School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Australia

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is responsible for a substantial proportion of severe visual impairment and blindness in people over 50 years of age. Current treatments for AMD are not effective in all patients and a proportion of patients who respond well to the treatment will still eventually develop central visual impairment. Despite all efforts to develop safe and efficient medications for AMD, as yet pharmacological approaches have failed to provide fully effective treatments for this condition. Various lines of evidence attest to the contributions of oxidative stress in the etiology of AMD. Anti-oxidant nutrients may be valuable preventive or therapeutic agents however complementary therapies can become widely adopted without sufficient knowledge of the real advantages and liabilities. This review considers the interventional potential of some common phytochemicals for treating AMD, primarily focusing on clinical and epidemiological evidence of potential public health relevance.

Apomorphine Subcutaneous Infusion is More Efficient Than foslevodopa/foscarbidopa Subcutaneous Infusion in the Treatment of Advanced Parkison´s Disease for the Spanish National Health System

May 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-26-6161
J GonzalezCorresponding author

Objectives Motor fluctuations and non-motor disorders not manageable by first-line treatments in advanced Parkinson's disease require continuous dopaminergic stimulation strategies such as subcutaneous infusions of apomorphine (APO) or foslevodopa/foscarbidopa (FLD/FCD). A Budget Impact Analysis (BIA) was performed to estimate the cost difference between both treatments assuming equivalent clinical efficacy and safety. Material and methods The efficacy results of pivotal clinical trials at 12 and 52 weeks of treatment and the safety profile of APO vs FLD/FCD were compared, based on latest scientific publications and other available clinical data. A comparative BIA was performed, based on estimated annual drug treatment costs at Spanish published prices. Results The efficacy of APO (16 h/day) and FLD/FCD (24 h/day) in reduction of OFF hours (2.47 vs 2.75, 12 weeks; 3.66 vs 3.50, 52 weeks; respectively) and increase of ON hours without disabling dyskinesias (2.77 vs 2.72, 12 weeks; 3.31 vs 3.80, 52 weeks; respectively) could be considered clinically equivalent, as well as their safety profiles. However, a significant discrepancy is observed in the costs of the aforementioned alternatives. Considering published prices and the average dose reported in the literature, in Spain the annual cost of APO would be €13,980 compared to €55,198 for FLD/FCD. Consequently, the financial resources required for the treatment of FLD/FCD would enable the treatment of approximately three to four patients with APO. The BIA indicated the potential for annual savings in more than €2,500 million, considering a total target population of over 60,000 patients per year. Finally, an univariant sensitivity analysis was performed, considering a scenario in which the hospital acquisition cost of FLD/FCD decreased between 20%-30% (€44,159- €38,638/year). In this scenario, the total annual savings range between €1,875-€1,532 million per year. Conclusions Overall APO is more efficient than FLD/FCD, as it provides similar clinical efficacy at a lower treatment cost. The selection of an appropriate treatment option is to be determined by clinical criteria and patient characteristics, but cost evaluation should be considered to select the most cost-effective therapeutic option.

Activation of Transcription Factor EB Protects Against Proinflammatory Insults Through NF-κB Inhibition in Keratinocytes

Feb 2026
Xing HuiCorresponding author

Keratinocytes are pivotal in mediating cutaneous inflammation. Identifying anti-inflammatory factors within these cells holds promise for developing novel therapeutic strategies to manage skin inflammation. Transcription factor EB (TFEB) has recently emerged as a key regulator linking cellular energy metabolism to inflammatory processes, primarily through its influence on autophagy and NF-κB signaling. However, whether TFEB activation exerts anti-inflammatory effects in keratinocytes remains unclear. In vitro inflammation model was established in HaCat cells by incubation with proinflammatory mediators LPS and IL-1β. Cell viability and TFEB expression and phosphorylation were measured. The effect of TFEB activation by C1 and adenoviral TFEB overexpression on the expression of proinflammatory genes including COX-2, MCP-1 and IL-6 were detected. Also, IκBα protein level were determined. TFEB phosphorylation is increased while TFEB total protein expression is inhibited by treatment with LPS and IL-1β. Pharmacological activation of TFEB by compound C1 and TFEB overexpression suppressed the expression of COX-2, MCP-1 and TNF-α induced by LPS and IL-1β. TFEB overexpression increased basal IκBα expression and restored IκBα level under LPS treatment. TFEB knockdown reduced TFEB expression and lowered basal expression level of COX-2, MCP-1 and TNF-α. Our findings indicate that TFEB activation can mitigate inflammatory gene expression in keratinocytes triggered by LPS and IL-1β. This implicates TFEB as a significant novel modulator of cutaneous inflammation, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. Targeting TFEB could thus be a viable strategy for developing new treatments for chronic inflammatory skin conditions.

Immunotherapy Usage Has Not Increased Sub-Lobar Pulmonary Resections Despite Reduced Pneumonectomies

Feb 2026
Singhal SunilCorresponding author

Objective The landscape of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has changed due to liberalized utilization of computed tomography, developments in immunotherapy and targeted treatments, and guidelines encouraging sublobar resections. We analyzed the implications of these advances for surgical procedures over a 16-year period. Methods The National Cancer Database was used to identify NSCLC incident cases from 2004 to 2020. Histology, stage, grade, and treatment were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. Results 2,028,553NSCLC patients were identified. Each year was associated with an increase in Stage I for NSCLC (OR1.05, 95%CI 1.05-1.05) and histological subtypes (adenocarcinoma: OR1.03, 95%CI 1.03-1.04; squamous: OR1.02, 95%CI 1.02-1.02; neuroendocrine: OR1.11, 95%CI 1.11-1.12), with no change in adenosquamous histology. A similar increase was observed for well- or moderately-differentiated histology (OR1.04, 95%CI 1.04-1.04). The proportion of patients receiving chemotherapy decreased (OR0.98, 95%CI 0.98-0.98), while more patients were treated with immunotherapy or targeted therapy, including an increase of 14% using immunotherapy or targeted therapy as first-line treatment. There was a decrease in the likelihood of receiving pneumonectomy (OR 0.91, 95%CI 0.91-0.91). Despite guidelines advocating sublobar resections, these procedures only increased by 1.1% per year. Conclusions Over the 16-year study period, there was a significant trend towards diagnosis of Stage I NSCLC. The most pronounced change in treatment patterns has been more patients receiving immunotherapy and less chemotherapy. Despite a promising decrease in pneumonectomies, the frequency of sublobar resections remains stagnant, indicating limited uptage in current practice.

How Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy Merges with Hypnotism and Solution- Focused Methods

Dec 2025
Darvishzadeh Nooshabadi GolnazCorresponding author

Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) has proven effective in over 120 outcome studies, particularly for anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. This conceptual paper proposes a theoretical integration of ISTDP with Solution- Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and clinical hypnosis. Each modality offers unique strengths—ISTDP enables rapid emotional processing, SFBT builds client resilience and solutions, and hypnosis enhances neuroplasticity and emotional receptivity. Drawing on existing empirical and neuroscientific literature, this paper synthesizes these modalities into a unified clinical framework. The integrated model emphasizes accelerated change through emotional access, strategic future orientation, and unconscious facilitation. Case examples illustrate the framework's practical applications across complex clinical presentations. The integration addresses gaps in single-modality treatments and provides a cost-effective, neurobiologically supported method of intervention. This article offers clinicians structured decision- making strategies and practical tools for real-time integration, while outlining future directions for empirical research.

Menopausal Symptoms Affecting Productivity and Occupational Needs of Peri-Menopausal Women in a Private University, Philippines

Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-25-5447
J. Factoriza OliviaCorresponding author

Objective This study aimed to explore the respondents’ reproductive health profiles, examining the physiological and psychosocial perimenopausal symptoms affecting productivity, and identifying occupational needs. It also determined the relationship between menopausal symptoms and the productivity and occupational needs of peri-menopausal women. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, surveying 50 women over 40 years old with a validated four-point Likert scale instrument. The instrument undergone content validation, reliability test, and ethical approval. Survey was administered personally and online using purposive sampling. Statistical treatments included weighted mean, F-test, T-test, Pearson r correlation, and ranking. Key results The majority of participants had their first menstruation between 11 to 15 years old and experienced regular menstrual cycles. Most had one child, with an equal number of cesarean and normal deliveries, and reported no pregnancy complications. The study found that participants seldom experienced physiological and psychosocial menopausal symptoms. They agreed on the occupational needs during the perimenopausal period. It was found that physiological symptoms were influenced by factors such as early menarche, cesarean delivery, and pregnancy complications. Additionally, psychosocial symptoms varied based on menstrual status, the number of children, and pregnancy complications, with those experiencing earlier menstruation or complications reporting more intense symptoms. The study revealed a significant relationship between both physiological and psychosocial perimenopausal symptoms, which negatively impacted productivity and increased occupational needs. Women with higher menopausal symptoms expressed a greater need for workplace policies that support perimenopausal women, highlighting the need for tailored workplace interventions for this demographic. Future Direction The study recommends including pap smears and mammograms in annual exams for peri-menopausal women, offering awareness seminars on managing perimenopausal symptoms to reduce workplace disruptions, and suggests future research exploring additional variables affecting perimenopausal women’s health and productivity

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

Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-24-5325
G.W MbauCorresponding author

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

The Journey from Personalized Medication to Customized Nutrition

Dec 2025
Haider RehanCorresponding author

The journey from personalized medicine to customized nutrition represents a significant paradigm shift in healthcare, emphasizing the holistic method for a person's or girl's well-being. in this transition, the know how of the unique genetic makeup , metabolic profile, and way of lifestyles elements of everybody will become paramount. customized medicinal drug has long centered on tailoring scientific remedies to the genetic and physiological traits of sufferers, optimizing efficacy, and minimizing detrimental effects. Now, custom-designed nutrients increase this idea further, recognizing that weight reduction plays an essential function in health and disease prevention. Key to this evolution is the mixing of advanced technology together with genomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, allowing the suitable identification of dietary styles and nutritional requirements tailored to a person's particular desires. This summary explores the trajectory of this adventure, highlighting the pivotal characteristic of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals, nutritionists, and researchers. With the useful resource of leveraging slicing facet generation and records-pushed strategies, personalized vitamins keep the promise of revolutionizing knowledge we method nutritional interventions, moving some distance from generalized guidelines towards targeted strategies tailored to all people's precise organic make up and way of life. expertise, traumatic conditions which include accessibility to this technology, ethical issues, and the desire for sturdy, proof-primarily based practices remain. In conclusion, the shift from customized treatments to personalized nutrient expertise is a transformative generation in healthcare, empowering people to take proactive management of their health through tailor made nutrition interventions. This summary underscores the importance of endured studies and collaboration in figuring out the entire functionality of personalized vitamins in selling health and well-being.

Embryology Open Access

Preventing Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Nov 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-5657.je-24-5272
Passan ShrutiCorresponding author

Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is a significant complication that can occur during fertility treatments, particularly in the context of assisted reproduction technologies (ART) such as In-vitro fertilization (IVF). It is characterized by enlarged ovaries and the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen and sometimes the chest, which can lead to various degrees of discomfort and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications. The incidence of clinically significant OHSS is 2-3%, however, milder forms of OHSS might develop in up to 20-30% of all IVF patients.

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

Oct 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-3360.ijco-24-5294
Adhikari RameshwarCorresponding author

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

Farming Open Access

Standardizing Use of Mepiquat Chloride for Higher Productivity of Densely Planted Bt Cotton Variety

Oct 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.3070-2232.jf-23-4883
Kaur SiratCorresponding author

Standardizing use of mepiquat chloride for higher productivity of densely planted Bt cotton variety” was carried out at the Regional Research Station, Abohar and Regional Research Station, Faridkot during the kharif season of 2021 on Btcotton variety PAU Bt3. The soil of experimental field was silty loam at Abohar and sandy loam at Faridkot. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four plant spacings (67.5×15 cm, 67.5×30 cm, 67.5×45 cm and 67.5×60 cm) as main plots and five Mepiquat chloride levels (MC (5%) @ 375 ml ha-1 at squaring, MC (5%) @ 375 ml ha-1 at flowering, MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at squaring, MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering and after 15 days and Control (No MC)) as sub plots with three replications. Lowest plant density (67.5×60 cm) and MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at squaring resulted in significant reduction of plant height, LAI (Leaf Area Index) and dry matter as compared to control at both the locations. Higher boll retention and opened bolls were observed in 67.5×60 cm and MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1at flowering. There was no significant effect of both the treatments factors on node count, monopods and sympods. Highest seed cotton yield was obtained with 67.5 ×30 cm (at Abohar) and 67.5×15 cm (at Faridkot) although these two spacing levels were at par with each other. MC (5%) @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering resulted in 22.9% and 21.3% increase in seed cotton yield over control at Abohar and Faridkot, respectively. Different plant spacings and mepiquat chloride applications showed a non-significant effect on different fibre quality parameters except halo length at Faridkot. At both the locations, highest B:C ratio was observed in 67.5×30 cm and MC @ 750 ml ha-1 at flowering.

Radio-Induced Maxillary Angiosarcoma: About a Case

May 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-25-5504
Hachemi MohamedCorresponding author

Introduction Angiosarcoma is a rare malignant tumour from fast-evolving and aggressive vascular endothelial cells that accounts for 1% of all sarcomas. The sinus location of angiosarcoma is exceptional. The clinical polymorphism of this tumour may cause a delay in diagnosis. Risk factors are not always understood. However, a history of radiation therapy for locoregional cancer and/or lymphedema is most commonly found. The prognosis remains bleak with an overall five-year survival of 35 to 40%. Objectives The authors discuss the diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic modalities and difficulties of this tumour. Observation: The authors report a case of maxillary sinus angiosarcoma confirmed by radio-induced secondary CD34 immunohistological staining in a 40-year-old man having a history of hemangioendothelioma treated with conservative endoscopic surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy 15 months earlier. Discussion This lesion is rare in the ENT sphere and may be confused with a benign tumor in its early stages. Only histological examination with immunohistochemistry can confirm the diagnosis (factor VIII, CD34 and CD31 antigens). Treatment consists of a wide resection followed by radiotherapy, hence the need for early diagnosis in the metastatic phase, first-line treatments include doxorubicin or paclitaxel weekly. Conclusion Radio-induced angiosarcoma is a rare malignant tumour, it occurs in patients who have received conservative treatment and radiation therapy for nasosinusitis cancers. Angiosarcomas of the nasal passages remain a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to their local and general aggressiveness.

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

Aug 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-24-5108
Zakaria Baniamer AnsamCorresponding author

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

The Potential Usefulness of Peripheral Somatosensory Stimulation in Improving Sleep Quality in Patients with Insomnia

Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-24-4949
Nussbaum LACorresponding author

Background Insomnia and other sleep disorders represent a major cause of disability and impaired productivity. We evaluated the impact of peripheral somatosensory stimulation (PSS) on sleep quality in 12 patients with varying degrees of insomnia. Methods Twelve adult patients underwent daily PSS therapy for a 4-week period and were evaluated using the Insomnia Severity Index at baseline (prior to initiation of therapy) and then at the conclusion of the treatments. All data were obtained through a self-reported 7-question survey evaluating overall severity of insomnia symptoms and the impact of sleep patterns on satisfaction with sleep, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Changes from baseline insomnia scores were analyzed using cumulative link mixed models (CLMMs). Results Seven men and five women completed one month of PSS therapy. Mean age was 55.1 (range 29 to 80 years). No adverse events were described by the patients. The average total change from baseline score was -10.3 points (baseline: 16.5 vs. week 4: 6.2). Patients had statistically significant improvements for every individual survey question by week 4. The median composite score was improved from baseline, with an overall median score of 2 (IQR: 1.25 – 2.75, min-max: 1-4) at baseline compared to 0.5 (IQR: 0 – 0.25, min-max: 0-2) by week 4 (MD = -1 95% CI: , p < 0.001), signaling typically moderate insomnia at baseline vs. typically minimal to no symptoms by week 4. The predicted probability of obtaining the best outcome (score=0) was 9% at baseline vs. 53% by week 4. The overall cumulative odds ratio was 11.9 (p < 0.001), suggesting that on average, the odds of moving from one score to a lower (improved) score at week 4 compared to the baseline are approximately 12 times higher than moving to a neutral or worse score. Conclusions PSS stimulation appeared to have a significantly favorable effect on sleep quality in this group of patients. Symptoms related to ability to fall asleep, remain asleep, and overall quality of sleep were all improved with PSS therapy. We suggest that further investigation into the potential usefulness of PSS therapy in patients with sleep disorders is warranted.

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

Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-4211.jalr-23-4813
del Carmen Teruel Hernández EstherCorresponding author

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

Effect of adding different levels of soaked pigeon pea seeds (Cajanus cajan L) on the Growth and Feed Utilization Efficiency of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings.

Dec 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-23-4637
M. Yagoub HassanCorresponding author

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of socked pigeon pea seed meal on Growth and Food Utilization Efficiency of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings. 120 fish the weight and length average (3.4±0.04g and 3.2±0.00cm) were randomly distributed in 12 plastic Tanks (Aquarium) 36L according to the complete randomization, allocated to a represent four treatments (T0, T1, T2, and T3) of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings. four feeds were prepared in pellet form which consisted of 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% pigeon pea seed meal as replacement of fish meal. All diets contents 30% protein. Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings were fed at the rate of 5% of their body weight. The result showed significant variation (P < 0.05) in final body weight, weight gain (WG), daily weight growth (DWG), Specific Growth Rate (SGR), and Food Conversion Ratio (FCR) among treatments. But, high SGR in T0 (control) and the best FCR were obtained at T 0% pigeon pea seed meal. Over all, best growth performance was observed in fish fed diet T1 (25%). The best performing fish’s final weight, DWG, SGR and FCR were 9.46±0.33g, 0.13±0.01g/day, 2.93±0.73% /day and 1.49±0.30 respectively. On the other hand, there was high significant variation (P < 0.05) in survival rate were obtained at T2 (50%). this study recommend that a diet containing 25% Pigeon pea seed meal for juvenile Nile tilapia is optimum in terms of growth performance and profitability, and does not impact water quality and plankton abundance in plastic Tanks (Aquarium) culture system.

Zoological Research Open Access

Study of Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa) and Honey on Mice (Mus Musculus)

Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-23-4642
Zahoor TayyabaCorresponding author

The study was conducted to determine the effect of Nigella sativa (Kalonji) and Honey as an anti-inflammatory agent for humans and animals. The study was carried out on 20 Albino Mice of almost equal size and weight. All the mice were given 5% solution of formalin in a dose of 0.5ml injection in their right hind paw to produce artificial inflammation. The mice were divided into four groups of five animals in each and were randomly allotted to four treatments as Group A (Control) where no Nigella sativa extract and honey were given, Group B where the mice were given only the ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa in the dose of 0.05ml injection as a remedy of inflammation, Group C where the mice were given only the honey orally in a dose of 0.05mg and Group D where mice were given 50% (0.025ml) intraperitoneally of Nigella sativaextract and 50% (0.75mg) of honey as an anti-inflammatory agents. The data was statistically analyzed by the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and the results showed that the inflammation was significantly (p<0.05) reduced in mice given treatments compared to untreated control group and among treated groups. The mice given the extract of Nigella sativa (Group B) showed better results (p<0.05) in reducing the inflammation compared to other groups (C and D), Group D where the mice were given 50% (0.025ml) Nigella sativa extract and 50% (0.75mg) honey showed better results (p<0.05) than mice given only honey. Overall, both the extract of Nigellasativa and the honey were almost equally successful in reducing the inflammation in mice which showed that these two agents can successfully be used as anti-inflammatory drugs in humans and animals.

Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Chronic Pain and Pain-Related Cytokine Levels: A Clinical Study

Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2688-5328.ijp-23-4624
James AndersonCorresponding author

Periauricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (pVNS) has been proven safe and effective in reducing chronic pain and related comorbidities in numerous clinical studies. This multicenter, interventional study used a non-randomized, interrupted time-series analysis to test the efficacy of an 8-week treatment protocol using the Stivax neurostimulator device. Subjects (n=33, 15 F, 18 M, age 40-77) were recruited at 3 clinic sites in California and Colorado. All subjects had long-term chronic pain and had failed other treatments. Subjects were treated with the Stivax device 3 times (2 weeks on, 1 week off). Subjective assessments of pain (Visual Analog Scale), disability (Oswestry Disability Index), depression (PHQ-9), and activity (IPAQ-E) were collected at baseline and weekly. Objective blood levels of pain-related cytokines collected at the end of weeks 2 and 8. Most subjects reported reduced pain, disability, and depression, with increased activity levels. At the end of week 8, subjects reported an average reduction in pain by 38.5% (3 subjects reported no pain), depression by 43.6% (2 subjects reported no depression), disability by 38.6% (2 subjects reported no disability), and an average 26.1% increase in activity level (5 subjects doubled their activity level). Levels of the pain-related cytokines IL-1ꞵ, IL-2, IL-3, IL-7, IL-10, IL-15, IL-17α, IL-21, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and FLT3-ligand showed improvement at week 8. pVNS is believed to “reset” central sensitization underlying chronic pain and other central sensitization syndromes, engaging the body’s pain modulation systems. Our results indicate that pVNS can clinically significantly improve chronic pain and associated morbidities without adverse effects.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Soluble Biobased Substances in soil or Salicylic Acid on leaves affect the foliar pH and soil biovariability of Grapes-as explained by the NIR Spectroscopy of Litterbags and Teabags

Jul 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-23-4648
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author

The purpose of the trial was to check the effects of two grapevine treatments on the plant activity and on the bioactivity and biovariability of the soil. An alkaline complex of Soluble Biobased Substances (SBS) was used in soil at 30 g per plant in a single solution. Salicylic Acid (SA) was used on leaves at 150 mg l-1 every two weeks at 50 ml plant. The plants were examined for their foliar pH and NIR spectra. The soil bioactivity was monitored by means of hay-Litterbag-NIRS (LBN) in combination with the Teabag Index (TBI), using rooibos and green tea that had been buried for 60 days. The evolution of the TBI presented here concerns the TBI-NIRS spectroscopic method used for discriminant analysis. A new algorithm was used to estimate the soil microbiome from the green Teabag spectra. The obtained results showed that the plants and the soil responded to the treatments. In fact, SBS, but not SA, lowered the leaf pH by 5%, an unexpected and original result. Both treatments increased the variability of the leaf composition, with a lower discrimination, based on the NIR spectra, from the Control (75%) to 44% (SA) and 38% (SBS). The TBI method, which is based on weights, was less efficient (67%) than the TBI-NIRS of rooibos (96%) or the LBN of hay (80%), but it was like the TBI-NIRS of green tea (74%). The LBN analyses indicated that the mycorrhizal index had increased by 8% in SA but had reduced by 7% in SBS, while both treatments reduced the activity of the microbes, which did not affect the soil respiration rate. The mineral N in the soil was substantially raised by about 11÷69%. The Taxa profiles showed marked deviations from the Control. Moreover, the SBS treatment reduced the Glomeromycota by 35%, which matched to the reduction in the mycorrhizal index. The most favored Bacteria from the treatments were Proteobateriaand Actinobacteria, with Mortierellomycota being the most penalized. Neither treatment affected the production, but both delayed the technological maturity by 9-11%, while the SBS retarded the phenolic maturity by about 18%. It has been concluded that a simple treatment of vines can affect the bioactivity in the leaves and berries as well as the biovariability of the soil.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Effect of Bio-Controlling Methods (Proplis and Bacteria) on the 3rd_larval Instar of Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-22-4389
Haroun Mohamed Adam AbubakerCorresponding author

The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella L.) is one of the most destructive insect pests that threaten apiculture. Laboratory experiments were conducted in the Research Laboratory, College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology during the period from the 2nd_ of April to 29th_ of October 2021 to evaluate the lethal effect of Bee glue (proplis) and Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki (Btk) on the G.mellonella. Five concentrations (5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5% and 15%) of proplis extract and (0.62,1.25,2.5,5 and 10 mg/ml) of Bt were used for each proplis extract and Bt in a Completely Randomized Design. Powder ethanol extract of proplis at 15% concentration caused 83.3% mortality after 96 hrs of application, where as 10mg//ml concentration of Bt gave 93.3% mortality after 72 hrs of exposure. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences between all treatments and control. Additionally, all treatments (proplis/ /Bt) increased the mortality %.  

Agronomy Research Open Access

Efficacy of Carumcarvi L. (Caraway), Eculaptuscamaldulensisdehnh (Red Gum) Andnigella Sativa (Black Seed) Against Greater Wax Mothgalleria Mellonellal.Innaeus (Lepidoptera:Pyralidae)

Sep 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-22-4247
Haroun Mohamed Adam AbubakerCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri- Sudan.

The greater wax moth considered one of the most worldwide-spread pests of the bee wax. This Study was designed to investigate the insecticidal activity of Carumcarvi, Eculaptus camaldulensis and Nigella sativa against 3rd larval instar of G.mellonellathrough laboratory screening. Five concentrations (5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5% and 15%) of each plant extract were used in this experiment. Mortality (%) was recorded after 24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs post treatment. The results showed C. carvi, E. camaldulensis and N.sativahave insecticidal activity against 3rd_ instar larvae of G. mellonella. The highest concentration (15%) caused 90% ,86.7% and 80% larval mortality after 96 hrs for C. carvi,E. camaldulensis and N.sativarespectively. The statistical analysis revealed that there is a significant difference (p< .001) between all treatments and control. The results also clearly demonstrate that the C. carvi are significantly more toxic than E. camaldulensis and N. sativa, whereas the LC50 values were 5.4% forC. carvi,6.0% for E. camaldulensis and 6.2% for N. sativa.

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

Aug 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-22-4271
Marks RayCorresponding author Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Columbia University, Teachers College New York, USA.

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

Tay-Sachs Disease: From Molecular Characterization to Ethical Quandaries and the Possibility of Genetic Medicine

Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-22-4217
O. Henderson JeffreyCorresponding author Department of Science and Mathematics, Judson University, Elgin, IL 60123, USA

Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the HEXA gene, which encodes the ɑ subunit of the enzyme β-hexosaminidase A. Lacking this key enzyme in GM2 ganglioside catabolism, individuals who are homozygous for HEXA mutations suffer from abnormal accumulation of GM2 ganglioside in brain and nerve cells, ultimately resulting in the progressive deterioration of the central nervous system. TSD is one of three disorders characterized by β-hexosaminidase deficiency; Sandhoff disease (SD) and the AB variant arise by mutations in the HEXB and GM2A genes respectively, which disrupt other points of GM2 ganglioside degradation. Characterized by developmental delay and stagnation, muscular weakness, coordination deficits, seizures, and eventual hearing and vision loss, these three disorders are clinically indistinguishable and occur in three forms defined by age of onset. While there is a much higher incidence of TSD in the Ashkenazi Jewish population, community carrier screening and counseling initiatives have reduced disease prevalence to about the equivalent of non-Jewish populations; however, such efforts have raised ethical concerns in the Jewish community that are increasingly relevant in light of scientific and medical advancements. Currently, treatments for TSD and its related disorders focus on symptom management, with gene therapies and the application of modified CRISPR-Cas-9 technology being explored.

Integrated Management of Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum, An Emerging Fungal Pathogen Causing White Mold Disease

Jun 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2832-5311.jpcd-22-4182
Md. Iqbal FarukCorresponding author

Sclerotiniasclerotiorum, the causal agent for white mold (Sclerotinia stem rot), is a devastating fungal pathogen. Currently, Sclerotinia is most commonly managed using the chemical fungicide which can lead to Sclerotinia resistance development, impacting biodiversity and interfering with key ecosystem services. In this regards, field experiments were conducted during 2017-18 planting seasons to evaluate the efficacy of different components viz. sawdust burning, stable bleaching powder, fungal and bacterial bio-control agents, chemical fungicide Rovral 50 WP and integration of different components for the management white mold disease of bush bean, mustard and garden pea in three different locations viz. in the field of Plant Pathology Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Burirhat, Rangpur and RARS, Ishurdi, Pabna, respectively. The results showed that different treatments displayed varying levels of effectiveness against the disease. All the treatments gave satisfactory reduction of white mold disease development and increased plant growth as well as yield of bush bean, mustard and garden pea. Among the treatments, integration of saw dust burning + soil amendments with Trichoderma based bio-fungicide + bacillus based bio-control agents + application fungicide Rovral 50 WP is the best treatment which reduced 97.49%, 77.72%, 72.26% white mold disease incidence and 84.61%, 81.14%, 71.01% white mold disease severity of mustard, bush bean and garden pea, respectively and increasing plant growth parameter as well as 52.16%, 27.74%, 36.97% yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea, respectively. Application of only fungicide Rovral 50 WP also better treatment in reduction of white mold disease incidence and disease severity and increasing plant growth parameter as well as increasing yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea. Soil amendment with fungal or bacterial bio-control agents also gave satisfactory results in reduction of white mold disease incidence and disease severity and increasing plant growth parameter as well as increasing yield of mustard, bush bean and garden pea. It could be concluded from the obtained results that integration between bio-control agents as a soil treatment and foliar application chemical fungicide might be useful as a good tool for controlling white mold disease caused by S.sclerotiorum and obtained higher yield of bush bean, mustard and garden pea under field condition.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Plant Nutrients on Purple Blotch and Tip-Burn of Garlic

Apr 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-22-4114
Md. Iqbal FarukCorresponding author

An experiment was conducted in the field of Plant Pathology Division, BARI, Joydebpur to evaluate the efficacy of available plant nutrient for the development of purple blotch disease and tip-burn of onion. Eight different treatments viz. Potassium (MP fertilizer), Phosphorus (TSP fertilizer), Boron (Boron fertilizer), Zinc (ZnSO4 fertilizer), Calcium (CaSO4 fertilizer), Copper (CuSO4), Silicon (silica gel) and Manganese (MnSO4 fertilizer) were tested against purple blotch disease and tip-burn of garlic. The present study revealed that soil and foliar application of plant nutrients viz. Potassium, Phosphorus, Boron, Zinc, Calcium, Copper, Silicon and Manganese gave appreciable reduction of purple blotch disease and tip-burn incidence and increased plant growth parameters such as shoot and root growth as well as yield of garlic. Among the nutrients Potassium, Phosphorus, Silicon, Zinc and Calcium were performed better for reducing purple blotch disease severity, tip-burn disease incidence and increasing plant growth as well as yield of garlic. Application of Boron and Manganese also performed better than control. So, soil and foliar application plant nutrients Potassium, Phosphorus, Silicon, Zinc, Boron and Manganese may be recommended for tip-burn and purple blotch disease management and for garlic production in Bangladesh.

Etiological Diagnosis Open Access

Calcinosis Cutis on Vulgar Wart. Report of a Case

Mar 2022
Javier Torres-Gómez FranciscoCorresponding author Pathology Unit. High Resolution Hospital. Utrera, Sevilla. Spain

Verruca vulgaris is a very common lesion, of viral etiology, benign clinical behavior and different types of simple treatments. Its epidemiological, morphological, histological and therapeutic study has been sufficiently reflected in the literature. We present a peculiar clinical case in which calcium deposits developed on a common wart without any alterations in its metabolism being observed in the analytical studies carried out (calcinosis cutis). A 9-year-old male patient attended the dermatology service due to an excrescent keratotic lesion of recent appearance and rapid growth. We have conducted an unsucessful bibliographic search of this relationship, possibly because these have not been communicated because it is simply a morphological finding with no clinical significance.

Agronomy Research Open Access

RETRACTED: Development of Biorational Management Package of Root Knot Nematode Disease of Country Bean

Feb 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-4019
Faruk IqbalCorresponding author Principal Scientific Officer, Plant Pathology Division, Agricultural Research Institute, Joydebpur, Bangladesh.

This article has been retracted on 10 November 2022. VIEW THE RETRACTION NOTICE (https://doi.org/10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-25-5841) A field experiment was conducted with a view to test the efficacy of Tricho-composts and integration of Tricho-composts, poultry refuse (PR), neem oilcake (NOC), saw dust burning (SDB) with chemical nematicide Furadan 5G (Carbofuran) for controlling root knot nematode of country bean through which growers will be benefited. The root-knot nematode infested soils were treated with Tricho-compost-1 @ 2 kg/pit, Tricho-compost-2 @ 2 kg/pit, Tricho-compost-1 @ 2 kg/pit + Furadan 5 G @ 20 g/pit, Tricho-compost-2 @ 2 kg/pit + Furadan 5 G @ 20 g/pit, poultry refuse @ 5-6 kg/pit + Furadan 5 G @20 g/pit , neem oil cake @ 500 g/pit + Furadan 5 G @ 20 g/pit and saw dust burning + Furadan 5 G @ 20 g/pit. It was revealed that all the treatments performed well in reducing root-knot nematode infestation and increasing plant growth and yield country bean compared to farmers’ practices. Among the treatments, integration of poultry refuse with Furadan 5G or Trichoderma based bio-fungicides Tricho-composts with Furadan 5G or neem oil cake with Furadan 5G are the best treatments in reducing root-knot nematode infestation and increasing plant growth as well as yield of country bean. Soil treatment with only Tricho-composts or integration of saw dust burning with Furadan 5G also performed better in reduction of root knot nematode disease and increasing plant growth as well as yield of country bean.

Clinical Case of Bilateral Mandibular Auto Transplantation for Missing Bilateral First Molars: Case Report and Review of Literature

Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2473-1005.jdoi-21-3976
Kasuga TaichiCorresponding author Faculty Shinmyouzu Dental Clinic and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Nerima, Tokyo 178-0061, Japan

Auto transplantation is a fast and economical option when a suitable donor tooth is available for replacement of a tooth considered impossible to treat. The purpose of this case report is to describe methods used for autotransplantation and its advantages for cases with a missing bilateral mandibular firstmolar, as compared with a dental implant, removable partial denture, and other methods of prosthesis. In the present patient who underwent auto transplantation, clinical and radiographic outcomes were considered satisfactory at one and two years postoperatively. Bone healing was observed around the roots of transplanted teeth, which showed good function. In autotransplantation cases, even when the donor tooth has complete root formation, a high success rate can be achieved when the patient is properly selected and treated. Although the chance of root resorption remains because of necrotic pulp and periodontal irritation during manipulation, auto transplantation should be considered as a good treatment modality in feasible cases. Based on the present findings, even though autotransplantation is not common in general dental practice, we consider that it offers a clinically and economically viable alternative as compared to other more complicated prosthetic and dental implant treatments. The purpose of this report is to show that auto transplantation is a superior treatment method for single molar defects as compared to other prosthetic methods, as the periodontal ligament of the patient can be used and cutting adjacent teeth is avoided. In addition, it is a treatment method that can effectively utilize a wisdom tooth.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Response of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) Growth, Yield and Yield Components to Compost and Phosphorus Fertilizers

Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3880
Haroun Mohamed Adam AbubakerCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri- Sudan.

Sugar beet is one of the sugar crops which widely grown in different regions of the world due to its advantages over Sugarcane. Several studies were conducted in Sudan to assess its adaptation and economic value. However, the aim of this experiment was to study the effect of application of compost and different levels of phosphorus fertilizer and their combination on Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) growth attributes, yield and yield components. The study was conducted during the winter season 2018 –2019 at the farm of the College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Alkadaro-Khartoum State, Sudan. The experiment was arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and six treatments, namely the Compost (5t./ha.), Phosphorous (P2O5) (88kg./ha.), P2O5 (176 kg./ha.), Compost (5t./ha.)+P2O5 (88kg./ha.), Compost (5t./ha.)+ P2O5 (176Kg./ha.) and the Control (C) respectively. All cultural practices were carried out timely according to the recommendations of the Agricultural Research Centre in Sudan. Then the data pertaining the following agronomic traits were recorded, the leaf number; leaf dry weight (g), leaf area index (LAI) (cm), root diameter (RD) (cm) and root fresh weight (RFW) (g). The results of statistical analysis revealed the application of compost in combination with phosphorus displayed significant increase at 5% level for the leaf number (22.75), leaf area index (5.23), leaf dry weight(36.78), root diameter(69.67) and root fresh weight (422.68), followed by the application of compost alone compared to the control and other treatments. The study concludes that the combination of compost and mineral fertilizer (P2O5) proved to increase all Sugar beet growth and yield parameters.

Photobiomodulation, Depression, Anxiety, and Cognition

Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-21-3935
Marks RayCorresponding author Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA.

Background Anxiety and depression are key barriers to healthy aging and greatly heighten the risk for many negative health issues that seriously impact life quality. Aim This mini review examines the potential of low level laser treatments or photobiomodulation therapy for ameliorating severe anxiety and depression in older adults. Methods and Procedures Articles that adressed the current topic of interest extracted from PUBMED and Google Scholar were carefully and presented in narrative form. Results Photobiomodulation therapy appears to be a safe efficacious modality for ameliorating various degrees of anxiety and depression and for improving cognition, and is supported by several well established mechanisms of action at the molecular, cellular, and tissue levels. Conclusion More research to examine who might benefit most from this form of therapy, and in what respect in this area of growing global concern and few intervention options is strongly warranted.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer and Plant Spacing on Vegetative Growth of Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris)

Aug 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3883
Haroun Mohamed Adam AbubakerCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri- Sudan.

Despite the existing several Sugar manufacturing companies in Sudan, there is an acute shortage in sugar supply, therefore the government imports Sugar to bridge the gap. One of the strategies to be followed is the introduction of Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) crop, mainly for sugar production. This crop has several advantages over Sugarcane such as short duration, less water requirement, in addition to other uses like animal feed. Therefore it became necessary to have good understanding of agricultural operations, cultural practices and adaptation. However, the main objective of this study was to assess the effect of Nitrogen fertilizer and plant spacing on vegetative growth of Sugar beet. This study was conducted at the farm of the College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Alkadro, Khartoum State-Sudan; during the season 2016/2017. The experiment was arranged in Split plot in Randomized Complete Block Design with six treatments and four replications. Two plant spacing (15 and 20 cm.) were used as main plot, referred as (S1, S2) along with three levels of Nitrogen fertilizer (40, 80 and 120 kg/ha.), as subplot; referred as (N1, N2 and N3) and the control (0). Data regarding leaf number, leaf area index (LAI), leaf dry weight (g) (LDW), root diameter (mm.) and root fresh weight were recorded and statistically analyzed. The results showed S2 (20 cm) increased all the studied plant characters, namely the leaf number (29.139), leaf area index by (7.54), leaf dry weight (g) to (89.870), root diameter (mm) (94,992), root fresh weight (g) (695.80) compared to S1(1015 cm). On the other hand; the application of N3 (120 kg/ha.) increased the lead number (30.956), leaf Area Index (8.841), Leaf dry weight (102.47), root diameter (97.955) and root fresh weight (851.77) compared to S2 and S1 as presented in (table 4, table 5 and table 6).

Agronomy Research Open Access

Efficacy of Ricinus communis L., Cassia occidentalis L. and Bacillus thuringiensis against Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-21-3817
Elamin Elhaj WaleedCorresponding author Department of Plant Protection, College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Khartoum State, Sudan.

Helicoverpaarmigera is one of the most destructive pests of field crops worldwide. The Study was designed to investigate through laboratory screening the insecticidal activity of Ricinus communis, Cassia occidentalis and Bacillus thuringiensis var. Kurstaki (Btk) and their combinations against 2nd larval instar of H. armigera. Five concentrations (4%, 6%, 8%, 10% and 12%) of each plant extract and (0.62, 1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/ml) of Bt were used in this experiment. Mortality (%) was recorded after 24,48,72 and 96 hrs post treatment. The results showed that R. communis, C. occidentalis and Btkhave insecticidal activity against 2nd instar larvae of H. armigera. The highest concentration (12%) caused 80% and 70% larval mortality after 96 hrs for R. communis and C. occidental respectively. The statistical analysis revealed that there is a significant differences between all treatments and control. Additionally, all combinations (plant/plant or plant/Bt) increased the mortality %. The results also clearly demonstrate that the R. communis are significantly more toxic than C. occidental where the LC50 values were 6.4 % for R. communis and 8.1% for C. occidental. On the other hand LC50 value for Bt was 0.41 mg/ml. The binary mixture of R. communis and C. occidental have a potentiation effect after 48 hrs. Regarding the mixture of Bt and plant extracts the results revealed that R. communis and Bt mixture induced a potentiation effect whereas C. occidental and Bt mixture induced a an additive effects.  

Agronomy Research Open Access

Evaluation of Organic and Vermi Composts for Mass Culturing of Trichoderma Harzianum to be Used Against Soil-Borne Pathogen Sclerotium Rolfsii of Groundnut

Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3677
Faruk IqbalCorresponding author Principal Scientific Officer, Plant Pathology Division, BARI

The experiments were conducted in the fields of Plant Pathology Division, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Gazipur during 2016-17, 2017-18 and 2018-19 cropping years to evaluate the organic and vermi composts for mass culturing of biological control agent Trichoderma harzianum and toobserve the effect of formulated T.harzianum designated as Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost as well as organic compost, vermi-compost and chemical fungicide Provax 200 WP against soil-borne pathogens, Sclerotium rolfsiiof groundnut causing foot and root rot/stem rot disease. The pathogen inoculated field soils were treated with Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost, organic compost and vermi-compost 7 days before seed sowing where as seeds were treated with Provax 200 WP at the time of seed sowing. From this study it was revealed that all the treatments performed in reducing seedling mortality and increasing plant growth and yield of groundnut compared to control. Among the treatments, soil treatment with Tricho-vermi-compost and Tricho-organic-compost are the best treatments in reducing seedling mortality and increasing plant growth parameters and yield of groundnut which was significantly differed from the other treatments including control. Seed treatment with chemical fungicide Provax 200 WP and soil treatment with only vermin-compost and organic compost also promising treatments for management foot and root rot disease and increasing plant growth parameters as well as yield of groundnut compared to control.

Effect of Hydroxychloroquine on Clinical Improvement and Mortality Among Patients with COVID-19 Admitted to Four General Hospitals in Saudi Arabia

Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3652
Alghamdi MohammedCorresponding author Infectious disease consultant, King Fahad General Hospital

Background The use of hydroxychloroquine in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic raised significant concerns as regards safety and efficacy in hospitalized patients. The objective was to examine the effect of hydroxychloroquine on clinical improvement and mortality among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted at four general hospitals in the Western region, Saudi Arabia. Patients who had absolute or relative contraindication for using hydroxychloroquine were excluded. Patients concomitantly receiving other medications including azithromycin, antivirals, and supportive treatment were not excluded. Results A total 267 patients were included in the current analysis; 185 (69.3%) on hydroxychloroquine and 82 (30.7%) on non-hydroxychloroquine treatments. The average age was 46.0±13.3 years and 78.3% of the patients were males. Approximately 95.9% of the patients were symptomatic with mild (50.6%), moderate (32.6%), severe (8.2%), or ARDS symptoms (4.5%). Compared with no hydroxychloroquine, those on hydroxychloroquine had significantly longer length of stay (11.5±7.1 versus 7.8±4.3 days, p<0.001), more ICU admission (22.7% versus 9.8%, p=0.012), and more intubation (12.4% versus 3.7%, p=0.026). Improvement of symptoms (84.3% versus 81.7%, p=0.595) and hospitalization death (7.0% versus 1.2%, p=0.071) were not significantly different between groups. With exception of length of stay, the association of hydroxychloroquine with the above negative outcomes disappeared after adjustment for several factors including disease severity and concomitant use of azithromycin. Conclusions Hydroxychloroquine is not associated with better improvement of symptoms compared with other treatments. Moreover, it is associated with longer length of stay but not mortality or ICU admission in adjusted analysis.

SARS-CoV-2 affected cells Pathogeny and Therapy

Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3538
M.R PonizovskiyCorresponding author Kiev, Ukraine, “Kiev regional p/n hospital”, /Head of “Laboratory Biochemistry and Toxicology”

There were compared mechanisms infecting a human organism by different viruses in relation to interaction between human diploid cellular cycle mechanisms and coronaviruses haploid genomic mechanism. Besides there were described mechamism forming combined haploid-diploid cellular cycle of viral affected cells due to interactions between human cellular cycle mechanisms and coronaviruses genomic mechanism. Further there were considered infected way of SARS-CoV-2 from mechanism maintenance stability Internal Energy of an organism’s able-bodies cells and transmutation them into viral affected cells leading to death of affected cells of high respiratory level in nose-trachea-bronchi with transiting coronaviruses through dead cells‘ wall and infecting lungs‘ cells. Taking into account great searches of methods treatments Coronaviruses infected disease, we offered to approved through detail clinical Trial of new efficient method of treatment ill patients with SARS-CoV-2 disease which can rescue of still alive lungs‘ cells. Moreover there was reviewed offered therapy of SARS-CoV-2 induced disease.

Insights on the Thermal and Physical Stability of the Modified Polymerizable Liposomes for Improved Photoactivity

Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2835-513X.ijl-20-3454
Gupta AnjuCorresponding author Department of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43614, USA

We investigated physical steric and thermal stability effects induced by cholesterol and polyethylene glycol (PEG) in liposomes encapsulated with riboflavin. The composition of liposome was varied systematically to decipher the individual and combined effects of cholesterol and PEG on the stabilization of liposomes, specially the photopolymerizable liposomes for their potential applications in photo-treatments. Our results indicate that inclusion of PEG in the lipids enhances the steric stabilization by adopting a brush-like regime that prevents the agglomeration of encapsulated liposomes. A mechanistic differential scanning calorimetry studies reveal the phase transitions and enthalpy changes in the lipid bilayer due to the presence of cholesterol suggesting its role in regulating membrane fluidity. Supporting in- vitro studies confirm the efficacy of PEGylated formulations encapsulating riboflavin.

Effects of the Level and Frequency of Fertilization with hen Droppings on Zooplanktonic Density and Growth Performance of Common Carp Post-Larvae (CyprinusCarpio)

Jul 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-6622.ijar-20-3490
Nsangou Amidou KpoumieCorresponding author Department of Animal Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon

Zooplankton production and growth performance of post-larvae of common carp according to the level and frequency of fertilization with chicken droppings were studied between May and October 2017 at the IRAD pisciculture station in Foumban. To this end, two doses of hen droppings, namely 450 g/m3 (D450) and 600 g/m3 (D600), were each applied at two application frequencies (weekly (F2) and bimonthly (F1)). Thus, 1200 post-carp larvae were distributed in 12 identical concrete tanks (1.2m x 0.75m x 1m) each filled with 400 liters of water. The 2 doses applied at 2 frequencies were applied randomly in the 12 tanks in a complete random device comprising 3 treatments and 2 repetitions. Six days after fertilization, each tank was sown with zooplankton at a density of 7 individuals per liter (ind/l). The loading was carried out 12 days after fertilization at a density of 100 ind/m2. The results show that regardless of the dose and the frequency of droppings applied, the production of zooplankton was optimal 10 to 12 days after fertilization. Considering the growth performance, the tanks receiving the 600 g/m3 dose every 2 weeks presented the highest significant values ​​(p <0.05). On the other hand, the survival rate (36% on average) was not significantly influenced (p˃0.05) by the dose and the frequency of fertilization. The 600 g/m3 dose applied every two weeks can be recommended for the rearing of post-larvae common carp.

Pain between Psyche and Soma in Uro-Andrology

Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2688-5328.ijp-20-3386
Pruneti CarloCorresponding author Dept. of Medicine and Surgery, Clinical Psychology, Clinical Psychophysiology and Clinical Neuropsychology Labs., University of Parma, Italy.

How to define pain? One of the most accredited definition is certainly “An unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage" (IASP (International Association for the Study of Pain - 1986) and World Health Organization (WHO) 1. However, what are the essential components of pain experience? Certainly many factors are involved such as, among others: Perceptual ability / suitability / subjective threshold; The "subjective" experience; Multidimensionality; Occasionally or chronicity. All these components have to be taken into consideration in the treatment of these disorders which, very often, require a multidisciplinary approach. From a clinical psychological point of view, much can also be offered at a diagnostic level, from the reception to listening to the patient's suffering, to the evaluation with standardized tests and psychophysiological analysis procedures in order to arrive at an effective personalization of treatments

Agronomy Research Open Access

Response of Some Sunflower (Helianthus annuusL) Hybrid Cultivars as Influenced by Argel (Solenostemmaargel, Del. Hayne) and Nitrogen Under Irrigation in Sudan

Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3388
H. M. Adam AbubakerCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri, Khartoum North, Sudan

A field experiment was conducted during 2017/2018 to assess the effects of Argel (Solenostemmaargel, Del. Hayne) and Nitrogen fertilizer on the performance of two Sunflower Hybrid cultivars, with the objectives to exploit an easy, economic, and accessible organic fertilizer, the Argel in the phase of the continuous increasing prices of chemical fertilizers.. This experiment was laid out on spilt-split-plot experiment in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Observations were taken on some agronomic traits (Plant height (m), Leaf area (LA), leaf Number (NL), Leaf Area Index (LAI) and Mean Seed Weight). The results revealed that the application of Argel and Nitrogen fertilizer have significantly increased the leaf Area (F= 7.22, P < 0.001), Plant Height (F=2.68, P < 0.2001), Leaf Number (F= 3.90, P < 0.0024), Leaf Area Index (F= 3.83, P < 0.0026) and Mean Seed Weight of both Serena and Opera cultivars respectively compared to the control. However, the different treatments of Argel and Nitrogen reflected variable degree of increase for the studied parameters. The study concludes that Argel is very promising, therefore a further study with different levels of Argel including other plant parameters is recommended.

Differential of Antioxidant Ability, CD4+T Cells Count and Viral Load in HIV Infected Patients on cART in Yaounde, Cameroon

Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3417
Teto GeorgesCorresponding author Chantal BIYA International Reference Centre for research on HIV/AIDS prevention and management, Yaoundé, Cameroon

Background Decreased antioxidant ability is one of the worsening conditions in AIDS.We aimed to evaluate total antioxidant ability among others, and their variation in HIV infected patients following their CD4+T cells count and viral load, in a context of new ART scarcity in most LMICs. Material and Methods We conducted a cross sectional study on 167 individuals (76 controls, 33 treatments naïve and 58 HIV-1 infected patients on ART). We assessed their plasma total antioxidant ability (FRAP), malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiol (SH) groups using standard spectrophotometric methods, then we calculated lipid peroxidation index (LPI). Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 6. Data were analyzed by two-tailed unpaired t-test for two groups’ comparison and ANOVA for more than two groups. Pearson correlation between CD4+T cells count, viral load and the above markers was determined; P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The following controls/naïve/treated subjects’ values for FRAP(mM) (1.907±0.074/1.77±0.05/1.695±0.03); MDA(μΜ) (0.781±0.081/1.115±0.118/ 1.342±0.109); SH (μΜ) (2.747±0.130/1.582±0.197/1.498 ±0.140)and LPI (0.43±0.61/ 0.61±0.7/2.59±0.83) were all obtained with P ≤ 0.05. The FRAP increased only with 3TC+TDF+EFV and 3TC+ABC+NVP cART while MDA decrease significantly with the later(p=0.027). MDA and LPI significantly increased in heavily treated patients with p<0.0014 and p=0.0001 respectively. overall, the patients showed an increase of viral loads following a decrease of CD4+T cells (r= -0.803, p=0.016) but 3TC+TDF+EFV seem to better manage the both. The only significant correlation was established between SH groups and CD4+Tcells count (r=0.447; p=0.0006); Conclusion Our study showed that thiol groups may be protective againstCD4+Tcells count depletion and that the cART 3TC+TDF+EFV, 3TC+ABC+NVP may be helpful in fighting against free radical generation and particularly 3TC+TDF+EFV as controlling CD4+Tcells count and viral load in long term treated patients. The study particularly showed the implication of cART in increasing lipid peroxidation index following the treatment duration in heavily treated patients, which aggravated their conditions in an area where drug options are limited, calling for new drugs availability and personalized medicine.

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

Jun 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-20-3372
Ozcelik FatihCorresponding author University of Health Sciences, Sultan 2. Abdulhamid Han Training and Research Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey

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

Use of Immune Modulator Interferon-Gamma to Support Combating COVID-19 Pandemic

May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3345
Ozcelik FatihCorresponding author University of Health Sciences, Sultan 2. Abdulhamid Han Training and Research Hospital, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Istanbul, Turkey

While the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns about the future of people worldwide, it has made it necessary to take measures with high economic costs, including quarantine. We consider it is more logical for some scientists to investigate time-saving treatment options until vaccination studies, which are started to be studied rapidly, are accomplished or specific antiviral agents are found. In this context, treatment combinations of one or more of the immune modulators known as cytokines, which can stimulate or accelerate the immune system, should be tried. In our opinion, although such options are not as effective as specific treatments such as vaccines, such options will offer highly effective alternatives in times of emergency. For this reason, we found it appropriate to make a reminder by preparing a broad review about interferon gamma, which is an antivirus and is an immunomodulator and which plays a critical role in humoral and cellular immunity. 

Ophthalmic Science Open Access

Resveratrol Prevents Cataract Formation by Inhibiting Pro-inflammatory Mediator-induced Dysregulation of Lens Calcium

Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-20-3303
Manikandan R.Corresponding author Department of Zoology, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai-600025 

The effect of resveratrol, a free radical scavenger, during cataract development was evaluated in the Wistar rat pup model. This study investigated the possible free radical scavenging potential of resveratrol at 40 mg/ kg body wt dose in selenite-induced cataract in rat pups. Intraperitoneal injection of sodium selenite (15 µm mol/ kg body wt) in 8 to 10 day old rat pups lead to severe oxidative stress in the tissues evidenced by decreased antioxidants and increased lipid peroxidase, nitric oxide, superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical generation, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) as well as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) expression levels that probably led to cataract formation. Selenite exposure also caused an increase in total calcium in the eye lens and significantly inhibited the activity of Ca2+ ATPase but not Na+/ K+ ATPase or Mg2+ ATPase. However, both pre- and co-treatments with resveratrol, but not post-treatment, led to an increase in antioxidant levels with a concomitant reduction in oxidative stress and also rescued the selenite-mediated increase in lens Ca2+ and inhibition of Ca2+ ATPase activity in the eye lens. The results of this study demonstrate antioxidants decrease and increase in free radical generation triggered by selenite causes the inactivation of lens Ca2+ ATPase leading to a rise in intracellular Ca2+ level. Resveratol treatment was able to prevent selenite-induced oxidative stress and in turn the inhibition of lens opacification. Thus, resveratrol has the potential to function as an anti-cataractogenic agent, possibly by preventing free radical-mediated accumulation of Ca2+ in the eye lens.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Spectroscopic Kernel Quality from a Symbiotic Corn Production

Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3260
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).

The management of the inoculation of a plant’s roots, by means of biofertilizers (BF) containing arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, is aimed at inducing modifications of the quality of the seeds. It is here shown that a seed-soil treatment can be elicited in the fingerprints of a symbiotic treatment using Near Infra Red (NIR)-SCiO  NIR-SCiO spectra collections of single kernels: overall, a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 73% have been achieved, thus suggesting that it may be possible to assign the symbiotic origin of corn from just twenty kernels, provided that the dataset is adequately representative of the cultivar and AM. A global correlation study has shown a positive general trend (R2 0.45) of quality vs. quantity, in the sense that an increase in yield corresponded to an increase in the spectral differences between the symbiotic spectra and the control ones, but the inverse was also true, as a result of the parasitic behaviour of the BF treatments. The efficacy of the symbiosis can be back predicted from the NIR spectra; in fact, around 90% of the positive yield outcome results were discriminated from the negative ones. A reduction in the foliar pH (R2 0.37) and an increase in the foliar protein (R2 0.43) were observed as immediate phenotypic signs of a productive symbiosis. The commercial raw composition of the kernels appeared to only be affected slightly by the BF treatments; thus, till now uncharted secondary compounds of the maize kernels are involved, as supported by animal performances.

Investigation of Edge-Selectively Nitrogen-Doped Metal Free Graphene for Oxygen Reduction Reaction

Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-2855.jan-19-2744
Kejian DengCorresponding author Key Laboratory of Catalysis and Materials Sciences of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission & Ministry of Education, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, 430074, Hubei, China

In order to distinguish the roles of four types of nitrogen species in oxygen reduction reaction, the ketoamine condensation reactions between the ketone group of graphene oxide and amidogen of aniline and o-phenylenediamine were employed to generate –C=N- bond at the edge of graphene nanoplatelets, and then nitrogen-doped graphene nanoplatelets with pyrrolic N, pyridinic N and pyridinic N+-O- rather than graphitic nitrogen were obtained by post thermal treatments. The resulting catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical measurements. It is found that edge-selectively nitrogen-doped graphene nanopaltelets with nitrogen content of up to 4.28 atom% have been prepared. Nitrogen doping helps to improve activity of oxygen reduction reaction slightly, suggesting nitrogen doping at the edge of graphene does not contribute a lot to the enhancement of activity.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Influence of Sowing Date on Growth and Yield Components of Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus L.) in Semi-Arid Zone

Oct 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2961
backer H. Mohammed AbuCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri.

The main objective of this study was to quantify the influence of sowing date on growth and yield components of hybrid sunflower (Hysun33) cultivar in semi-arid zone. This experiment was conducted during the seasons 2014/2015-2015/2016 at the farm of the College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Shambat, Khartoum- Sudan. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications and three treatments. Different parameters were considered including plant height, leaf area index (LAI), filled sees number/head, head diameter, dry weight and yield components. The collected data were statistically analyzed. The results revealed that crop sown in May and July showed significant increase in plant height, LAI, head diameter, dry weight, field seed number/head, weight of 100 seeds; yield; and yield components; compared to crop sown in March. However, crop sown in the second season showed an increase in growth and yield components compared to the crop of the first season.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Growth, Yield and Varietal Responses of Cassava to time of Planting into Plantain Stands in a Plantain/Cassava Intercrop in Akure, South-West Nigeria

Aug 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-19-2967
S.O AgeleCorresponding author Department Crop, Soil & Pest Management, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria

A field experiment was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farms of The Federal University of Technology Akure to evaluate the responses of cassava varieties to time of planting in plantain-based intercropping system in the rainforest zone of Nigeria. The objectives were to identify the more compatible cassava variety for intercrop with plantain examine e the appropriate time to introduce cassava varieties into plantain/cassava intercrop and to identify the more compatible cassava variety for intercrop with plantain. The experiment involved the use of two varieties of cassava (TME 419 non branching and TMS 98/0581 moderately branched) planted at spacing of 1 x 1 m into the alleys of false horn plantain variety space at 3 x 2 m. The treatments were sole plantain, sole cassava varieties (TME 419 poorly branched variety and TMS 0581 branching variety), plantain + he respective cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 98/0581) at the same time, and plantain + the respective cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 98/0581) at 4 weeks after planting>the treatment plot size was 9 m x 6 m. The plantains and the two cassava varieties were planted sole as the control treatments. The introduction of cassava into plantain as intercrop was carried out at different times which were; at the same time with plantain, and at four (4) weeks after planting plantain. Data on growth parameters such as; plant height, pseudo-stem girth, number of leaves were taken for plantains, while plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, number of branches, height at branching were taken for cassava at 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 and 24 weeks after planting (WAP). Yield parameters such as; bunch weight, number of fingers, number of hands, length of fingers, girth of fingers, weight of hands, weight of fingers were taken for plantains while number of tubers, weight of tubers, girth of tubers, length of tubers, fresh root yield, shoot biomass, were taken for cassava at harvest. The data collected were subjected to statistical analysis. The results showed a higher growth and yield performance for TME419 (49.2 t/ha) and TMS98/0581 (45.7 t/ha) planted sole, and TME 419 (39.5 t/ha) intercropped at planting compared to TMS 98/0581 (24.4 t/ha) intercropped at planting, TME 419 (21.7 t/ha) and TMS 98/0581 (15.7 t/ha) intercropped at 4 week after planting (WAP), respectively. But there was no significant difference (P<0.05) recorded for the growth of plantain, whereas the yield of sole plantain was higher and differed significantly (P<0.05) from the yields of intercropped plantain. All the treatment combinations had land equivalent ratio (LER) and area time equivalent ratio (ATER) greater than 1. Plantain + TME 419 intercropped at the same time recording the highest LER and ATER (1.48 and 1.5) while plantain + TMS 98/0581 had the least 1.11 and 1.14 respectively. The cost benefit analysis for the treatment combinations showed that TME 419 planted sole had the highest return of ₦3.567 per ₦1 invested, TME 419 intercropped at the same time gave a return of ₦3.416 per ₦1 invested, which was greater than other intercropped treatments. Intercropping cassava with plantain at the same time, as well as the use of TME 419 variety gave the best performance in terms of growth, yield, land equivalent ratio, area time equivalent ratio and returns on investment. This combination are recommended for plantain-based intercropping system involving cassava in the study area.

Zoological Research Open Access

Effect of Graded Levels of Spirulina (Arthropsira platensis) on Feed Intake and in vivo Digestibility of Trypsacum laxum in Guinea Pig (Cavia Porcellus L)

Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-19-2695
Miégoué EmileCorresponding author University of Dschang, Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences, Department of Animal Production Animal Nutrition and production Research Unit B.P. 188 Dschang, Cameroun.

The intake and in vivo digestibility of Trypsacumlaxum in guinea pigs according to the graded level of spirulina was evaluated in Cameroon. 20 animals aged of 6 months with an average weight of 450 ± 50 g were randomly divided into 4 equivalent groups. Each group received T. laxum and 40g of compound feed containing 0% (TS0), 2% (TS2), 4% (TS4), and 6% (TS6) of spirulina. Feed intake was the different between the left over and the quantity served. The sample of T. laxum and those of each diet as well as feces were collected and analyzed for the apparent digestibility of each nutrient. Animals were weighed at the beginning and at the end of each period of the test to determine the body weight gain. This study showed that the average daily intake of dry matter (DM) for TS0, TS2, TS4 and TS6 was 74.39 ± 2.98, 78.66 ± 3.14, 83.89 ± 4.28 and 77.76 ± 4.40 g/head/day. The highest apparent digestibility coefficients of different nutrients were obtained with animals fed TS6 group while the lowest were observed in TS0.The apparent digestibility coefficient of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and crude protein (CP) of the supplemented group were statistically higher than those of the control diet. Animals’ weight performances were statistically comparable between treatments. Thus, the combination of T. laxum with concentrated feed containing spirulina can be recommended for guinea-pigs, but the level of incorporation may not exceed 4% of its daily ration.

Could Painful Experience in the Neonatal Period Trigger Persistent Anxiety-Like Behavior?

Mar 2019
Paula Sassoli Fazan ValeriaCorresponding author Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirao Preto-SP, Brazil

We used a behavioral test to investigate long-term consequences of neonatal noxious stimulus in the anxiety-like behavior and describe differences between males and females. Male and female Wistar rats were submitted to either tactile (control groups) or noxious stimulus (pain groups) since birth, for 15 days and were followed up to 6 months of life. Experiments were performed on days 15, 30, 90 and 180 after birth. Rats of different groups, ages and genders were exposed only once to the elevated plus-maze (EPM), an apparatus largely used to detect anxiety-related behaviors in rats. For the open arms of the EPM, control animals showed an increase in the number of entries from 15 to 30 days of age followed by a decrease of this number at older ages. The comparison between treatments (control and pain) showed, for males, a reduced number of entries in the open arms in the pain group at 15 and 30 days and the opposite situation at 180 days. No differences were found between pain and control groups in females. Our results are in agreement with the literature that shows sex-dependent changes following chronic stress; stress being anxiolytic in males and anxiogenic in females. We point to the fact that acute painful stimulus in the neonatal period caused persistent changes in anxiety-like behavior in the adult life, independently of previously described intrinsic gender differences on memory, task performance, attention bias or other behaviors.

Parasite Research Open Access

Bancroftian Filariasis Still Endemic in Some Foci in Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt

Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-6759.jpar-18-2510
MA Khalifa RefaatCorresponding author Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University

Bancroftian filariasis (BF) is a debilitating disease that has plagued Egypt since the time of the pharaohs. Egypt is the first large endemic country in the world to reach the five-year mark in its national campaign. Now that the mass treatments are completed, a follow-up epidemiological assessment will reveal whether this large-scale, pioneering campaign has been successful in finally eliminating the disease. Hence the aim of the present work was to detect the prevalence of bancoftian filariasis in Tema, El-Maragha, Akhmeem and Girga districts in Sohag Governorate, Upper Egypt. Finger prick thick blood films were randomly collected from 500 clinically suspected individuals representing different sexes and ages suffering from lower limb non-pitting edema and/or inguinal lymphadenitis from May 2015 to February 2017. Three patients (0.6%) were infected with microfilariae of Wuchereria bancrofti while one chronic case was detected with severe chronic elephantiasis that was amicrofilaraemic but was confirmed serologically. Results were discussed in regards of age, gender, occupation, locality and residence. It was concluded that bancroftian filariasis is still endemic in three districts (Tema, El- maragha and Girga). Although in sporadic few cases, the problem should be taken seriously as one microfilaramic patient could be a patent reservoir for spreading of the disease through infecting the prevailing Culex pipiense mosquito intermediate host.

Zoological Research Open Access

Physiological Features of Pennisetum Purpureum or Panicum Maximum Consumption in Guinea Pigs (Cavia Porcellus)

Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-2275.jzr-18-2474
Emile MiégouéCorresponding author

Guinea pig diet is essentially based on the use of grasses associated with protein sources. Then, in to improve the herbivores nutrition, the evaluation of intake and In vivo digestibility of Pennisetum purpureum or Panicum maximum in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) was carried out in January 2017 at the University of Dschang research and experimental farm and animal production and nutrition laboratory. 20 adult animals of local breed on average weight 450 ± 50g and aged about 5 months were used. They were organized into two batches of 10 animals each (5 males and 5 females). The first batch received 250g of fresh matter of Pennisetum purpureum + 60g concentrate/animal/day, while the second received the same treatment with Panicum maximum as grasses. Leftover and animals were weighed every morning before food distributions, and drinking water containing vitamin C was served ad libitum. According to the results, the highest ingestion was obtained with Panicum maximum. However, the digestibility different nutrients was comparable between treatments; nevertheless, males fed on P. maximum digested crude cellulose (63.78%) better than males fed on P. purpureum (51.17%). With regard to the variation of the bacterial rate of the caecal flora, enterobacteria of animals fed P. maximum was high (11.20 CFU/ml) compared to those of the animals receiving P. purpureum (7.27 CFU/ml), although regardless of the treatment, the level of lactobacilli was higher than that of enterobacteria. In view of the results obtained, these grasses can be alternatively used in feeding guinea pigs.

Enhanced Alkaloid Production from Cell Culture System of Catharanthus roseus in Combined Effect of Nutrient Salts, Sucrose and Plant Growth Regulators

Dec 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-6694.jbbs-18-2475
Kumar Srivastava RajeshCorresponding author Department of Biotechnology, GITAM Institute of Technology, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management, (GITAM) (Deemed to be University), Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam (A.P.), India.

Callus and biomass culture of Catharanthus roseus L. were established to check for the presence of total alkaloid and its subsequent yield. Various treatments like strength of nutrient salts, sucrose concentrations and combinations of plant growth regulators (PGR’s) were applied to both MS and B5 in agar as well as suspension medium to test their effects on enhanced alkaloid content and its yield. There was no significant difference in any of the observable parameters of fresh wt, dry wt, alkaloid content, production, productivity and yield if the culture were treated similarly in both types of media formulations (MS or B5 salts). Physical state (agar solidified or the liquid suspension) of the medium had significant effect on all the parameters particular on fresh wt, alkaloid content and yields. Although, the fresh wt. and dry wt. of biomass in suspension culture was 2-3 times less than that of callus obtained from agar medium. However, the alkaloid content and yield was 2-3 times higher in suspension culture compared to agar medium in similar treatments. The highest alkaloid content observed was 5.67mg/g dwt in B5 suspension medium containing 3% sucrose and modified with 0.5mg/l 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) + 1 mg/l Kinetin (KIN) + 2mg/l α- naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). The combined effects of these factors on the enhanced production of total alkaloids were expected to contain higher yield of anticancer vinblastine and vincristine in the cell suspension culture system.

Drug Abuse among Street Children

Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-18-2291
Muhammed Bah YahyaCorresponding author University of The Gambia, School of Arts and Sciences, Brikama Campus, The Gambia, West Africa

In The Gambia like all nations, drug abuse is seen as a social and health problem that has many serious implications for the physical, social, psychological and intellectual development of the victims more especially, the children. Therefore, it continues to be a concern to families, community leaders, educators, social workers, health care professionals, academics, government and its development partners. Though there are some studies on drug abuse, there is none on children and drug abuse focusing on the street children the most vulnerable category. Street children are hypothesized to be more at risk of any epidemic including drug abuse. This study sought to determine the risk and prevalence of drug abuse among street children focusing on those in the car parks. The research was focused on six critical areas: level of knowledge of drug abuse, perception towards it, level of knowledge of the causes of it in the community and among street children, level of knowledge of negative impacts of it, level of knowledge of the preventive methods; and level of knowledge of the support services and treatments needed by victims. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from thirty five participants (i.e. one driver and six casual apprentices from each of the five car parks) were interviewed. The data was presented and analyzed using tables and percentage. The findings revealed among other things, that there is high level of awareness of drug abuse but the feelings towards it are mixed. Like other children, street children are abusing drugs mainly due to peer influence with the ultimate objective of getting high to relief stress, group recognition, desire to be trusted by peers, etc. Similarly, participants are highly aware of the negative impacts encompassing fighting, stealing, mental illness, etc. To finance the behavior, victims are engaged in all types of dangerous antisocial behavior including romantic ones exposing them to a range of diseases including STIs and HIV/AIDS. Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug. Though in the minority, some have started experimenting cocaine/coke, hashish; and heroin. While participants have good knowledge of the critical methods to fight drug abuse, the support services needed by victims, victims are mostly reluctant to seek the services not only because they are hard to find but fear societal stigmatization, exclusion and discrimination and professionals’ maltreatments.

Nephrology Advances Open Access

Action Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets of Renal Fibrosis

Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4488.jna-18-2443
Su WeiCorresponding author Department of Nephrology, Baoji Central Hospital, No. 8 Jiangtan Road, Baoji, Shaanxi 721008, China

Renal fibrosis was a chronic and progressive process affecting kidneys in chronic kidney disease (CKD), regardless of cause. Although no effective targeted therapy yet existed to retard renal fibrosis, a number of important recent advances have highlighted the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the renal fibrosis. The advances including TGF-β/Smad pathway, oxidative stress and inflammation, hypoxia and gut microbiota-derived from uremic solutes were highlighted that could provide therapeutic targets. New therapeutic targets and strategies that are particularly promising for development of new treatments for patients with CKD were also highlighted.

Improving the Efficiency of GF-120 Baits in Attracting BactroceraZonata by Adding Ammonium Compounds with Particular Emphasis on pH level

Oct 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2768-5209.ijen-18-2412
Mohamed Ghamin NabilCorresponding author Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt.

The peach fruit fly, Bactrocerazonata (Saunders) is a serious pest attacking a wide range of fruits. Field experiments were carried out, at Mansoura district, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt to evaluate the efficiency of di- ammonium phosphate, ammonium carbonate and ammonium acetate in enhancing GF-120, as insecticidal bait, for B. zonata based on their pH level under high and low population levels of B. zonata. Results showed that di-ammonium phosphate enhanced the attractiveness of GF-120 the most, followed by ammonium carbonate and ammonium acetate. Without adding any of the ammonium compounds to the GF-120 bait, the bait attracted the fewest B. zonata flies regardless of population levels. As the concentrations of ammonium compounds increased, the pH-level increased as well in the prepared GF-120 solutions, resulting in increased numbers of B. zonata flies captured. In contrast to males, females of B. zonata were more responsive to increase concentrations of the three ammonium compounds tested. Accordingly, all treatments attracted females more than males. The sex ratio (as number of attracted females per one male) was generally higher under low than high fly population levels.

Agronomy Research Open Access

Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer on some Attributes of SorghumGrown in Saline Soil under Irrigation

Sep 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-18-2239
Haroun M.Adam AbubakerCorresponding author Department of Crop Science, College of Agriculture, University of Bahri-Sudan.

The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of 4 levels of Nitrogen (N) fertilizer (0, 25, 50 and 75 Kg N/fed) on some attributes of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L). This study was conducted in the farm of College of Agriculture, University of Bahri-Sudan; during the period 2014-2015. Where the soil is classified as saline with pH ranging from 7.5 -7.8. A randomized completely block designed (RCBD); with 3 replications and four (4) treatments was adopted. All recommended cultural practices were carried out timely. Data; pertaining some plant attributes were collected and analyzed. The result showed that the application of 75KgN/fed has increased both; the average number of leaves as well as the plant height compared to other levels of Nitrogen fertilizer including the control (Figure 1, Figure 2). For the average number of tillers concern, there is non -significant difference between all Nitrogen levels and average number of tillers (Figure 3). The study concluded that the Nitrogen fertilizer has variable effects on the studied agronomic characters, and the application of 75kgN/fed is the optimal level of fertilizer for improving the agronomic traits of Sorghum under Alkadaro conditions.

Retrograde Amnesia and Disorientation after Intraocular Injection of Anti-VEGF Agents

Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-18-2258
Meyer Peter-WolfgangCorresponding author Department for General Psychiatry, Center of Psychosocial Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany

We present a case of a 77-year-old male patient who was treated in our outpatient clinic for memory disorders because of episodic confusion and retrograde amnesia. The patient reported having symptoms repeatedly following intraocular treatment with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents (Ranibizumab and Bevacizumab) as a treatment for wet macular degeneration. EEG showed a localized deceleration that intensified under prolonged voluntary hyperventilation. Symptoms resolved after the intraocular Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor treatment was stopped and anticonvulsive treatment with lamotrigine was begun. This case is important in that it describes a potential association between intraocular treatments with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents and seizures. Symptoms occurred in temporal correlation with intraocular treatment. Clinicians should be aware of this potential side effect on intraocular treatment with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents in patients with high risk for seizures.  

Microbiological and Nutritional Properties of Frankfurter-Type Fish Sausage

Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2212
T NkrumahCorresponding author Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.

Fish meat is a common and broadly used food due to its high nutritional values yet the bones and flavour of fresh fish can be unpleasant. The unpleasant fishy flavour makes it difficult to handle and process. The fishy flavour is as a result of microbial presence and growth. Studies associated with microbial contaminations have concentrated more on the carcass. Such contaminations which affect the microbiological status of processed products can emanate from spices and other non-meat ingredients, environment, equipment and handlers. The successful application of processing/preservation technology results in the conservation of desirable qualities in stabilized and varietal fish products. This study sought to use fish in the manufacture of frankfurter-type sausages, which could have improved preservation characteristics without any adverse effects on sensory properties. The nutritional composition and microbiological safety of fresh fish and sausages were determined using the methods described by AOAC and ICMSF respectively. The study showed that, catfish sausages were higher in protein (15.69 %) and were lower in fat (10.66%) compared to the other sausages. Total Viable Counts (TVC) were within the accepted limits (106 and 107cfu/g) for fish and pork respectively. E. coli  was not detected in any of the treatments during frozen storage for 6 weeks. It was concluded that catfish frankfurter has high nutritive value because it contained less fat but with higher crude protein. Like pork frankfurters, both catfish and mackerel sausages could be stored for six weeks without any negative effects on microbial quality.

Using Different Types of Fertilization for Increasing Sugar Beet Growth under Sandy Soil Conditions.

Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-9467.jgrc-18-1936
M. H. MubarakCorresponding author

Four nitrogen forms and four biofertilizer were application as well as their interactions on growth analysis of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L). The important results could be summarized as follow. Urea treatment achieved maximum increase in Leaf Area Index were 69.71, 81.32 and 166.54 at 120, 140 and 160 day in the 1st season, respectively, The highest one was 160.6 in the 2nd also was ammonium nitrate application at 160 days. Urea treatment inclusion in seeds with ntrobin application resulted the highest values of leaf area index (LAI), crop growth rate (CGR) and leaf area duration (LAD) and in the 1st season. A slight increase was 0.03 g/week in this case was found due to urea treatments as compared with the others treatment at the period from Relative growth rate (RGR3) in the 1st season. Ammonium nitrate treatment achieved the maximum values from Crop Growth Rate was 39.16 g/day in (CGR1), 93.24 and 13.5 g/day in (CGR2) and (CGR3) from urea treatment at the 1st season. The highest net assimilation rate was 0.66 g/dm.week achieved by ntrobin as compared the others treatment whereas, the lowest one 0.11 g.dm /week with the phosphorine application. Ammonium sulphate treatment with (phosphorin + ntrobin) obtained the highest net assimilation rate (NAR) in the 1st season. The highest values from leaf area duration were 0.11, 0.19 and 0.15 dm2/week achieved with urea and ntrobin in the 1st season at (LAD2), (LAD3) and (LAD4). Ammonium nitrate treatment with phosphorin obtained the highest leaf area duration (LAD) in the 2nd season. Generally, it could be recommended that fertilizing sugar beet plants variety Ymer with nitrogen forms inoculated with biofertilizer (ntrobin 600gm/fed) increased the growth of sugar beet plants under sandy soil conditions.

Dissociative Amnesia – A Challenge to Therapy  

Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-612X.ijpr-18-2246
Staniloiu AngelicaCorresponding author University of Bielefeld, Bielefeld, Germany

The psychiatric disease of dissociative amnesia is described and illustrated with case reports. It is emphasized that dissociative amnesia has a stress or trauma-related etiology and that affected individuals, contrary to the still dominant clinical belief, are frequently more severely and enduringly affected. That means, most of them show severe retrograde amnesia for their biography, usually accompanied by changes in their personality and sometimes also by alterations in other cognitive and emotive domains. As many patients show the phenomenon of “la belle indifference”, their motivation for therapy or treatment of their amnesia is reduced. Patients also seem to a high degree to possess immature, unstable personality features. Nevertheless, a number of quite divergent, though largely not evidence-based, therapeutic approaches exist and are described. They are divided into (a) psychopharmacological and somatic treatments, (b) psychotherapeutic interventions, and (c) neuropsychological rehabilitation. Furthermore, detailed treatment strategies are provided.

Coolifting® CoolCell®, A New Group of Highly Effective Active Ingredients for the Reduction of Cellulite in Women

Apr 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-6403.jtrr-18-2054
Pinto HernánCorresponding author i2e3 Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain

Cellulite is a very frequent clinical condition that, despite not being serious, constitutes one of the greatest aesthetic concerns of a large number of women. In recent years, some of the technologies that have allowed the development of devices and key tools in aesthetic medicine treatments have been consolidated. The aim of this article is to test the effectiveness of CoolCell®, a new treatment for cellulite that is administered with Coolifting® technology. We included 24 women who received 8 sessions of Coolifting® CoolCell®, one per week. Thermographic measurements were taken and satisfaction questionnaires were completed. Thermographic analysis showed a statistically significant color variation and self-assessment reports revealed that more around 75% of the subjects witnessed great or spectacular changes on their skin.

Impact of Bronchiectasis on COPD Exacerbations

Apr 2018
Molino AntonioCorresponding author Respiratory Department Federico II University- A.O. "Dei Colli",Naples, Italy

The presence of bronchiectasis is considered an aggravating factor in COPD patients. In particular, the coexistence of bronchiectasis and COPD was associated with greater frequency and severity of exacerbations. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of bronchiectasis in patients with COPD exacerbation. We retrospectively collected data from 212 patients admitted to the hospital with diagnosis of COPD exacerbation. In order to detect the presence of bronchiectasis, only patients that had received a chest HRCT scan examination were included in the study. We compared clinical and functional data between COPD patients with bronchiectasis and those without bronchiectasis. The prevalence of bronchiectasis was 31,6% in this study. The presence of bronchiectasis in COPD patients was associated with increased risk for isolation of PPMs in the airway (56,1% vs 28,3%, p 0,02), and in particular of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa (17,5% vs 5,6% p 0,02), and with a longer duration of hospitalization (8,22 ±3,67 vs 6,88 ± 3,43 days, p=0.004). These results could encourage efforts to optimize medical care for patients with COPD and bronchiectasis. Clinical trials with treatments for infective component are needed to investigate their impact on the reductions of exacerbations and improvements in the disease course.

Family Medicine Open Access

Post Mastectomy Pain is No Longer Nightmare

Feb 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-690X.jfm-17-1900
Ali M. Elzohry AlaaCorresponding author Department of Anesthesia, ICU and Pain Relief, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University.

Background PMPS nowadays is common due to advances in both; diagnosis and treatment of cancer breast. Choosing proper treatments can improve the patients’ quality of life. Cancer breast is common and quite important disease and female in our family must be aware of it. Improvement of the diagnosis and treatment PMPS lead to increased patient’s satisfaction and decrease fear of cancer breast. Objective Discuss different methods for management of PMPS with less side effects, adequate analgesia, improvement of quality of life, and better patient satisfaction in the future. Methods Treatment approaches include both pharmacological interventions and non-pharmacological strategies. However, current treatments of the PMPS are near-optimal and prevention much better than treatment. Conclusion Continuous perioperative thoracic epidural Fentanyl–bupivacaine infusion was much better in pain relief, less sedating effect and shorter duration of hospital and ICU stay than continuous perioperative entanyl intravenous infusion in patients undergoing major upper gastrointestinal cancer surgery.

Metabolic Correction Therapy as Adjuvant Treatment for Breast Cancer Patients: A Case Report

Jan 2018
J Gonzalez MichaelCorresponding author University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, School of Public Health, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In the United States, is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women. In Puerto Rico between 2008 and 2012, breast cancer was the most diagnosed type of cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths among women. This is a case of 54 years old female diagnosed with stage IV right breast carcinoma. The patient complaints were weakness and a right breast ulcer. She started a metabolic correction therapy, which consisted of high intravenous vitamin C infusions, a nutritional supplementation plan, and Paleolithic diet. During treatment, both Glycohemoglobin and Carcinoembryonic Antigen levels decreased significantly, the right breast ulcer decreased in size, and the patient’s quality of life improved. Over the years, vitamin C studies have demonstrated a cytotoxic action against malignant cells. Based on the results from this case, we advocate continue studying possible adjuvant treatments for cancer patients, involving IV infusions of vitamin C and metabolic correction plans.

Human Health Research Open Access

Oncopunt, a Video-Portal to Improve Oncological Skills of Home Care Nurses: Usability, User-Experience and Added Value for Clinical Practice

Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2576-9383.jhhr-17-1811
JM Lemmens RyanneCorresponding author Department of Healthcare, Centre of Expertise PXL Innovation Care, PXL University College, Hasselt, Belgium

Homecare is very important in oncology care since cancer patients are discharged more and more earlier from the hospital and receiving ambulatory treatments. Homecare nurses have a more general broad educational background, with less specialization regarding specific care, like oncology care. The aim of this study is to develop and test a cross-platform application (named Oncopunt) for homecare nurses involved in oncology care to provide specific nurse-centred information via digital media about skill guidelines specific for oncology care. This study was set-up as a non-experimental feasibility and satisfaction study with one measurement moment to collect information about usability, user-experience and added value of Oncopunt using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and an additional questionnaire. The cross-platform application Oncopunt was build using Drupal and Vimeo and consists of a homescreen, filter/search function and watch-function (full video panel, chapter panel and FAQ). Seventeen homecare nurses completed all questionnaires. The mean SUS score was 83,8 (stdev 11,6) and Oncopunt was rated positively regarding video content, technical issues, website layout, quality of care and user satisfaction. Oncopunt is developed to provide homecare nurses specific nurse-centred information about skills specific for oncology care via digital media . It was rated good on usability, user-experiences and added value for clinical practice.

Association of Non Epileptic Seizures and Epilepsy:2 Cases Reports of Masturbation Seizures

Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-17-1803
DOUMBIA-OUATTARA MariamCorresponding author Department of Medical Sciences, Félix Houphouët Boigny University, BP V 166, Abidjan, Ivory Coast

Introduction: Non epileptic seizures (NES) are little reported in our country. Case report: We report 2 observations of 4 years old girls, with normal psychomotor development, and frequent paroxystic seizures, characterized by stereotyped movements of the members, occurring during sleep onset or deep sleep. Electroencephalogram Sleep records showed brief discharges of spikes and spikes-waves. Magnetic Resonance Imaging was normal. Suspicion of NES associated with epilepsy was based on the following arguments: mild regression of the seizures frequency after using antiepileptic drug video records of the seizures strongly suggestive of masturbation seizures, masturbation seizures are triggered by the girls and stopped on order, best regression of the seizures frequency after adjunction of trihexiphenidyl. Moreover, the authors make a review of literature on the NES. Conclusion: The early diagnosis of the NES allows to avoid the inadequate treatments and an improvement of the prognosis.

Combined Therapy Versus Usual Care in the Treatment of Depressed Cancer Patients with Pain

Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-612X.ijpr-17-1604
Bovero AndreaCorresponding author Clinical Psychology and Psycho-Oncology Unit – Department of Neurosciences, University of Turin, Italy

Objective To compare Brief Adlerian Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (B-APP) plus venlafaxine versus venlafaxine plus usual care on pain and depressive symptomatology of depressed patients with cancer pain. Methods A total of 100 patients with pain and mood depression, according to DSM IV-TR, were randomized to receive treatment with B-APP plus venlafaxine (n=51) or venlafaxine plus usual care (n=49). The sample was evaluated at baseline and after 10 weeks with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS); the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS); the Clinical Global Impressions (CGI); the Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer Scale (Mini-MAC); the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and the Dosage Record and Treatment Emergent Symptom scale (DOTES). Only at the endpoint was the Verona Service Satisfaction Scale (VSSS-54) also administered. Results A significant reduction in VAS and HADS scores was observed in both treatments, but a higher significance (p<0.01) was present only in subjects also treated with psychotherapy. A significant change was obtained in Mini-MAC scores (p<0.01) for Fighting Spirit, Fatalism, Anxious Preoccupation (p<0.01) and Avoidance items (p<0.05) only in patients treated with combined therapy. The combined group also showed more satisfaction with the treatment in their responses to the VSSS-54. Conclusions Brief Adlerian Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (B-APP) in combination with venlafaxine was superior to usual care and venlafaxine in improving depressive symptomatology and reducing pain.

A Role for in Vitro Disease Models in the Landscape of Preclinical Cardiotoxicity and Safety Testing

Jul 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4372.jesr-17-1705
Varma VijayalakshmiCorresponding author Biomarkers and Alternative Models Branch, Division of Systems Biology, National Center for Toxicological Studies, Jefferson, AR

Drug-induced cardiotoxicity is one of the predominant reasons for drug attrition and withdrawals. This is of critical concern when potentially cardiotoxic drugs are administered to individuals with inherited arrhythmogenic cardiac diseases or with metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which are key risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Pathophysiological alteration prevalent under such conditions can alter or exacerbate cardiotoxic responses. The growing incidence of obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome subject a significant percentage of the population to drug treatments, thereby augmenting their risk for drug-induced cardiovascular toxicity. Hence, screening for drug-induced cardiotoxicity early in the preclinical stages of drug development, by using appropriate human disease models, can be effective in ensuring safety in clinical trials and preventing late stage and post-marketing drug withdrawals owing to cardiotoxicity. The advent of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cardiomyocytes are revolutionizing safety/toxicity screening in human cells by providing relevant human-specific, renewable model systems to explore human drug toxicity. The ability to generate patient-specific iPSCs that can model cardiac diseases, now offers a valuable option that can further improve drug safety assessments and enable a more accurate prediction of toxicity that occurs in the representative population that are prescribed the drugs. Use of appropriate disease models will not only provide cost savings by decreasing potential drug attrition and withdrawals, seen with many drugs, but will also be a promising option to advance precision medicine

Frailty and the Immune System

Jun 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-17-1578
Wilson DaisyCorresponding author Institute of Ageing and Inflammation, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK, B15 2GW

Frailty describes a medical syndrome that confers increased vulnerability to disproportionate changes in health status following minor stressors. With loss of homeostatic reserve in multiple physiological systems, frailty conveys an increased risk of adverse health outcomes. Despite the lack of a clear universal definition, the utilisation of two landmark operational models has allowed a rapid expansion in frailty-centred research. The pathophysiology of frailty is yet to be elucidated in the literature, but a critical role for a heightened inflammatory state is hypothesised. Raised levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines are associated with frailty, with emerging evidence relating their biochemical action with development of the frailty phenotype. Dysregulation of both the innate and adaptive immune system are key components of the frailty syndrome. Remodelling of the T cell compartment and upregulated inflammatory pathways are theorised to propagate the heightened inflammatory state critical in the frailty syndrome. Increased neutrophil counts, in conjunction with ineffective neutrophil migration associated with age, is theorised to produce tissue damage and secondary inflammation conducive of the inflammatory picture in frailty. Beyond the gold standard of the comprehensive geriatric assessment, management of frailty is a fast-evolving area of research. Exercise interventions have shown promising results, improving functional ability and showing beneficial immunomodulation. Vitamin D supplementation, with proposed anti-inflammatory effects, nutritional support and pharmacological treatments all provide promising areas for future therapeutic intervention.

New Knowledge and Research Needs for End-of-Life Care Among Elderly Persons in Long-Term Care Settings

Mar 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-17-1461
Lessard SabrinaCorresponding author Research Centre – InterActions, CUISSS du Nord-del’Île-de-Montréal

Given the aging of the population, an increase in the number of persons in need of long-term care and end-of-life care can be expected in the coming years. The scientific literature underlines the lack of end-of-life care for elderly people in long-term care centres. The aim of this study is to explore needs in terms of new knowledge and research on end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings, from the perspective not only of the scientific and international community, but also of Quebec professionals concerned by the issue. An online survey using the LimeSurvey® tool was conducted in 2015 among health professionals involved in end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings in Quebec. 208 professionals rated the priority of new knowledge and research needs related to 1) health professionals; 2) delivery and quality of care; 3) residents and their loved ones; and 4) organization and management of care. The results show that the statements collected in scientific literature resonate with health professionals. The most important need is to identify the symptoms of distress in residents in the final stages of their lives, as well as their causes and treatments. This study also shows professionals’ concerns about attitudes, beliefs, and values of practitioners and the related impacts on end-of-life care in long-term care settings. This study shows that there is a significant need for new knowledge and research. It revealed that there are few studies on end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings and that there is much more to be discovered in this field.

Medical Management of Sexual Assault Survivors at an Academic Medical Center

Dec 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-15-846
Rafie SallyCorresponding author UC San Diego Health

Sexual assault is a serious problem in the United States. It is crucial that the medical management of these patients is adequate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines for appropriate management of these patients. The purpose of this study is to evaluate medical management of survivors of sexual assault at an academic medical center and identify opportunities for improvements in care. We conducted a retrospective, chart review study of patients aged 12 years and older presenting at an academic medical center following sexual assault or rape between 2009 and 2013. Descriptive statistical tests were used to analyze the data. A total of 29 females and 5 males were identified. The majority of patients presented to the medical center within 24 hours of sexual assault or rape and typically presented to the emergency department. Empiric treatment for infections were 8.8% for Hepatitis B, 29.4% for human immunodeficiency virus, 20.6% for gonorrhea, 17.6% for chlamydia, and 8.8% for trichomonas. Among women of reproductive age, 28.0% were provided with emergency contraception. This study found inconsistency in the medical management of sexual assault survivors. Among this small sample size, many patients were not provided with recommended medical treatments. With this knowledge, the medical center plans to implement institutional guidelines and a corresponding order set in the computerized prescriber order entry system to standardize the medical management of sexual assault survivors and educate healthcare professionals. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the impact of standardized guidelines and order set implementation.

Allergic Angioedema and Urticaria After Ingestion of Organic Tea

May 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2473-1005.jdoi-16-1059
I. Scott MRCS SusanneCorresponding author Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery and Audiology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen.

Allergic angioedema of the airways is a potentially life-threatening condition. The allergen can be difficult to identify. Treatment in the acute phase comprises of antihistamines, steroids, adrenaline and in severe cases prophylactic intubation. Allergic angioedema can be encountered in all medical specialties including odontology. It can develop fast and emergency treatment is lifesaving. Knowledge of symptoms and emergency treatment is important. We present a case of a 33-year-old female physician who in a matter of hours developed first an atypical urticarial eruption followed by angioedema of the upper airways. She was treated with antihistamines, as she refused other treatments due to lactation. The patient also refused further investigations, however she has not had any further episodes after discontinuing the ingestion of organic tea. Allergic reactions are unpredictable and have a large variety of triggers. The most likely trigger in this case was fungicide in the organic tea.

The Effect of Medical Theraphy on Plasma Homocysteine Levels and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Parkinson's Disease

May 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-15-908
Kaya YaseminCorresponding author Ordu University Medical School, Department of Internal Medicine, Ordu, Turkey

Objective: We aimed to investigate homocysteine levels and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in Parkinson’s Disease (PD), to determine relationship of these parameters and as well as to determine whether CIMT in patients with PD was associated to age, disease duration, age of disease onset, stage, the Unified Parkinson Disease rating scale (UPDRS), the drugs used in therapy. Methods: The study population consisted of 55 PD patients (37 male) and 25 healty subjects. The severity of neurological impairment was assessed with UPDRS and the Hoehn-Yahr scale. CIMT and homocysteine levels were measured. Anti-parkinsonian treatments were recorded and the total daily dose of levodopa was calculated for each patient. Results:  Homocysteine levels were significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p=0.002). A positive correlation was found between CIMT and homocysteine  (r=0.29 p=0.03), but   no a relationship between CIMT and UPDRS scores, disease duration, age of disease onset, and stage. Mean levodopa dosage did not predict CIMT 0.6 mm (AUC: 0.546, 95%CI 0.372-0.720, p=0.59). Homocysteine 14 µmol/l predicted CIMT 0.6 mm with 64% sensitivity and 69% specificity (AUC: 0.654, 95%CI 0.488-0.819, p=0.07). Dıscussion: This study revealed that homocysteine levels in levodopa + dopa decarboxylase enzyme inhibitor (DDEI) group were increased which was correlated with a mild increasement of CMIT. This might indicate to the importance of clinical and radiological follow up of PD patients who are under treatment of levodopa + DDEI. Conclusion: Our Findings May Suggest The Role Of CIMT As A Meaningful Clinical Marker For Follow-Up Of Patients With PD

Ophthalmic Science Open Access

Rapidly Progressing Visual Loss Associated with Optic Nerve Head Drusen: Is there A Role For Lowering Intraocular Pressure?

Apr 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-0436.jos-15-763
El-Assal KarimCorresponding author Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Queen Alexandra Road, Sunderland, UK.

Background: Optic nerve head drusen are acellular hyaline deposits located anterior to the lamina cribrosa, frequently associated with visual field defects. Sometimes rapid worsening of vision may occur due to complications such as acute vascular events, choroidal neovascularization, or serous maculopathy. Case Presentation: Although there are no proven treatments for Optic nerve head drusen associated field loss, we present the case of a patient with Optic nerve head drusen and bilateral rapid progression of visual field loss that has stabilized on intraocular pressure lowering medication. This suggests a role for IOP-mediated retinal ganglion cell loss in this individual. The mechanism of progressive Optic nerve head drusen associated field loss is poorly understood, however experimental glaucoma models and human in vivo imaging studies have shown that structural differences within the optic nerve head are likely to contribute to individual susceptibility to IOP-mediated damage. Conclusion: We propose that eyes with Optic nerve head drusen may be less able to dampen IOP mediated stress, contributing to loss of retinal ganglion cells in some patients.

Clinical and Immunological Beneficial Effects of Phyto V7 Consumption by HIV-1 Seropositive Individuals

Dec 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-264
J. R WernikCorresponding author Facultad de Medicina, UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay;

Phytochemicals (PHT) are a large group of biologically active plant chemicals that may have positive effects on human health such as immune system stimulation, down regulation of inflammatory responses, radical scavenging activities, cell repair function, and antibacterial and antiviral activity. In this proof of principle 6 months study, the effects of supplementing a PHT mix, Phyto V7, to HIV-1 seropositive individuals and AIDS patients were examined. Individuals with CD4+ T-cells below 350 counts/mm3were assigned to one of the following treatments: CG1 - no treatment, CG2 - only highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART), TG1 - only Phyto V7, and TG2- both Phyto V7 and HAART. After 3 months of treatment there were approximately (-)1%, 1%, 2% and 4% increase in the mean weight of the CG1, CG2, TG1 and TG2 groups, respectively. The tendency for the body mass index (BMI) was similar. The CD4+ counts increased by 13%, 39%, 53% and 35%, respectively. Similar trends were noted after 6 months with 2%, 79%, 53% and 69% increases in the CD4+ counts, respectively. There was a significant reduction in viremia only in groups receiving HAART. Overall better results were obtained in the group of patients receiving both HAART and Phyto V7, in which the mean weight increased by 5.7% and the CD4+ T-cell counts increased by 69% after 6 months. This study indicates that providing Phyto V7 to HIV-1 seropositive individuals and AIDS patients, receiving or not receiving HAART, improves their physical wellbeing and CD4+ counts, enabling them to cope better with the viral infection.

Evaluating Circadian Oscillators in Cancer Stem Cells

Jun 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4372.jesr-14-607
E. Geusz MichaelCorresponding author Bowling Green State University, Dept. of Biological Sciences, Bowling Green, OH 43403

Cancer is influenced by the ability of cells to maintain circadian rhythms in molecular and metabolic processes. Disturbance of the underlying circadian timing mechanism in circadian clock cells leads to a higher frequency and more rapid progression of cancer. Cancer stem cells with properties of embryonic and somatic stem cells have been implicated as tumor initiators in several types of cancers. Although tumors are reported to have disorganized circadian rhythms, evidence of in vitro circadian rhythms in cancer stem cells of gliomas was recently presented. The possibility and consequences of circadian clocks functioning in cancer stem cells within tumors is examined, and the possible benefits to these cells from circadian timing is discussed in relation to cancer treatments.

Evaluating the Role and Efficacy of Plerixafor in Rescue Mobilization of Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cells

May 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-14-493
Prunier1 ECorresponding author

In autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients for whom granulocyte-colony stimulating factor fails to mobilize a sufficient number of peripheral blood stem cells, plerixafor proposes an option for successful rescue mobilization. This paper evaluates the efficacy of plerixafor to mobilize peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) in patients who failed previous mobilization with G-CSF alone, by retrospectively analysing the PBSC results from lymphoma and myeloma (MM) patients between 2006 and 2011. Patients were classified according to the CD34+ cells/kg yield collected by apheresis: < 2 x 106 CD34+ cells/kg was considered collection failure, whereas ≥ 5 x 106 CD34+ cells/kg was considered good mobilization. 797 patients underwent one or more apheresis. The first mobilization success rate was 82%; 140 patients proved to be poor mobilizers. Suboptimal first mobilization was significantly associated with age >50 years (p=0.005) and the absence of chemotherapy in prior PBSCs stimulation (p=0.04). 149 rescue protocols were used in the 140 poor mobilizers, and 71 patients received plerixafor. In univariate analysis the remobilization rate without plerixafor was 42% and increased to 65% when plerixafor was added. In multivariate analysis, plerixafor administration reduced the PBSC remobilization failure risk by a half (OR=0.47). The median value of CD34+ cells/kg in transplants increased from 1.43 (range, 014.03) without plerixafor to 3.85 (range, 0–18.25; p=1 x 10-4) with plerixafor. There were more good mobilizers after plerixafor use (35% with plerixafor versus 15% without plerixafor; p=0.005). Plerixafor efficacy was similar for lymphoma (60% remobilization) and MM (80%; p=0.12). These data show that plerixafor was effective in poor mobilizers and that it synergized with G-CSF to improve the quantity of collected PBSCs. Plerixafor also increased transplant feasibility by 23%. While the clinical results of this study are promising, economic data were not taken into account and there is a need for real work concerning the cost-effectiveness of this treatment. We propose a subsequent study in which the economic efficacy of plerixafor’s use is evaluated based on the financial aspects of the treatments received by the cohort evaluated in this paper.

Influence of Education Sources on Osteoporosis Knowledge and Calcium Intake in Adult Women: A cross sectional Study

Nov 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-475
K. Bai YeonCorresponding author Associate Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043

Osteoporosis prevention among women requires obtaining proper knowledge early in life about the disease, risk factors and treatments. This study compares specific education sources to osteoporosis knowledge and calcium intake. Online survey usinga convenience sampling was performed with women between ages 18 and 40. The survey measured osteoporosis knowledge, calcium consumption, and specific education source within categories of age, school classes, television, radio, newspaper, magazine, Internet, and in-person. Multiple regression analysis determined influential education sources for osteoporosis knowledge and calcium intakes. Osteoporosis knowledge was suboptimal (13.8 ± 3.3, as a score higher than 16 defined as “adequate”) and average daily calcium intake was 1315.1 ± 609.9 mg. Age and newspaper had greatest contribution towards osteoporosis knowledge, while Internet, school classes and radio were most influential resources on calcium intakes. Creating an osteoporosis education initiative utilizing these sources is imperative for increasing disease knowledge and preventive behavior among young women.

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