Recent Articles

This study examines fertility desires among women receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at Lideta Sub-City Health Centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 397 women, achieving a response rate of 97.5%. Data was collected through structured interviews and analyzed using logistic regression to identify factors associated with fertility desire. The results showed that 76.6% of respondents desired fertility in the future, with relationship desire being associated with a lower likelihood of having fertility wishes. College-educated individuals over 55 (13.9%) were 10.24 times more likely to aspire to become parents than primary and uneducated individuals. Respondents preferred a time frame of three to four years. The average age of participants was 37.34 ± 7.20 years, with 43.1% aged 30–39 and 41.8% aged 40–49. Nearly half (49.4%) were married, and the majority (98.2%) lived in urban areas. Factors significantly associated with fertility desire included higher education, partner's desire for children, and preferred timing for live birth within 3-4 years. Married women were less likely to desire fertility. The findings suggest the need for targeted reproductive health counseling, partner involvement in family planning, and support tailored to women with higher educational backgrounds to effectively address their fertility aspirations. Interventions should focus on enhancing reproductive health counseling, involving partners in family planning,and providing targeted support to women with higher educational backgrounds.

Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of Tunisian dentists regarding the use of herbal products in endodontic practice. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from May 2022 to September 2022. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 360 dentists, stratified into general practitioners and endodontists. Results: Endodontists exhibited a mean knowledge score of 38.5 ± 3.9, while general practitioners scored 39.5 ± 3.4, indicating comparable levels of knowledge in the application of phytotherapy in endodontics (p = 0.094 > 0.05). However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the practice of herbal medicine between the two groups (p = 0.002 < 0.05). General practitioners demonstrated a higher mean practice score (4.96 ± 1.01) compared to endodontists (4.45 ± 0.82). Attitude scores did not significantly differ between the two groups, with endodontists scoring 8.4 ± 1.7 and general practitioners scoring 8 ± 1.6. The majority of participants were familiar with orange oil (87.5%), aloe vera gel (78.1%), green tea (74.7%), clove oil (70.3%), curcuma (69.2%), and lemon solution (68.1%). Furthermore, 97.2% of respondents expressed a desire to enhance their understanding of herbal medicine in dentistry.Conclusion: Tunisian dentists exhibited limited familiarity with herbal products that could be employed in endodontic practice. Both general practitioners and endodontists demonstrated similar levels of knowledge regarding phytotherapy in endodontics

Yellow streak, ring spot and mottle symptoms were observed on young Agave tequilana (agave azul) plants cultivated in commercial nurseries in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. These symptoms have been associated with those possibly caused by an unknown virus. Mechanical inoculation of a host range and serological tests (ELISA) failed to demonstrate the viral nature of agave yellow streak. However, observations made on ultrathin sections of agave tissues with symptoms under a transmission electron microscope showed the consistent presence of flexible rod-shaped virus particles in the cytoplasm and chloroplasts, damage to chloroplasts, and formation of different types of globose membranous inclusions not observed in tissues from healthy plants. Moreover, analysis of Sanger’s sequences of nucleic acid and amino acids from amplicons obtained by RTPCR assays of symptomatic agave plants showed the infections of an unknown virus species of the Order Tymovirales

Introduction: Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) is a leading cause of infectious disease mortality worldwide. A large reservoir of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is a major public health problem worldwide and in the United States. Methods: A 13-question survey was distributed to providers working in the infectious disease, pulmonary/critical care, and general medicine departments at an academic tertiary care center in the United States. The survey included questions about provider confidence in and knowledge about LTBI management and perceived barriers to patient completion of the LTBI care cascade. Results: The response rate of the survey was 33% (62/186). Only 17 (30.9%) providers were able to correctly identify indication for screening in all six of the given patient scenarios. Overall, provider confidence in LTBI management decreased along the care cascade. Infectious disease providers were the most confident in management. The two most observed barriers to care were language barriers and lack of knowledge or understanding about TB. Discussion: Surveyed providers believe the largest barriers to patient LTBI treatment completion are due to a lack of patient comprehension about their infection. Patient understanding could be improved through mandated in-person interpreters, information pamphlets in patients’ preferred languages, and formation of community partnerships, to improve awareness about LTBI.

Test results have indicated the types of behaviors that can be expected with band engineering. The high-k dielectric used has introduced a mid-gap state in the silicon band gap. It is the Al2O3 layer that is causing this. By taking a polycrystalline high-k dielectric, the different grain boundaries that occur in the structure introduce different energies in the insulator layer. The electrons in the silicon that are being pinned are being trapped by these high and low energy states between the oxygen and silicon bonds. This is known as a quasi-static trapping. What this does is build up a positive oxide charge over time. This has an effect on the overall conductance of the p-type silicon. In terms of positive ion charge that is felt by the silicon, the charge density is still the same with electrons being spatially redistributed around the bonding sites. This is a key advantage with high-k dielectrics and one of the goals of the current research into MIS devices. The test data is showing a current increase from the field emission. When tested with constant voltage and varying temperature, the emission is a result of a thermally activated process by the tunneling increases. Energy is transferable to electrons in the silicon with carriers increased and at higher temperatures the increase in carriers is exponential. This can cause negative bias instability in the device and is not a desirable outcome for p-type or CMOS with progression into more advanced technology in the quest for higher device integration. This issue can potentially be resolved by band engineering the silicon. This is a large and complex topic and according to results and the current understanding of high-k dielectrics, no further progress should be made until it is fully understood how an insulator with a mid-gap state can affect the silicon. This and the effects of positive charge build up are the research topics which will lead on from the current work into MIS devices with high-k dielectric

Sézary syndrome is characterized by erythroderma, diffuse adenopathy, atypical T lymphocytes in the blood (> 1000/µ Liter), and a dominant T clone in the blood, skin, and lymph nodes.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a 24-hour rhythm with a characteristic symptom of morning stiness, which causes pain in the joints from late night to early morning. We previously revealed that higher therapeutic eects were obtained in RA patients and RA animal models when the dosing time of anti-rheumatic drugs was chosen according to the 24-hour rhythms of cytokine and in- ammatory reaction. In this study, we evaluated whether dosing with the Janus-associated kinases inhibitor Tofacitinib while accounting for biological rhythms results in higher therapeutic ecacy

Gentian violet dye is no longer commonly used for infant oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) and maternal nipple candidiasis, largely due to safety concerns, the emergence of modern treatment options, and lack of clarity on dosing. Current treatments for candidiasis include nystatin, azoles such as ketoconazole and fluconazole, and amphotericin B. However, OPC may resist treatment, and mothers may prefer gentian violet as an alternative OTC product. This literature review aims to assess the safety and efficacy of gentian violet in treating OPC and nipple candidiasis. Two search strings in Embase yielded 22 primary research articles, case reports, and commentaries. In terms of efficacy, gentian violet is as effective as standard of care treatments, and functions as a fungicidal agent against Candida albicans through biofilm manipulation. Safety concerns include skin and mucosal membrane irritation, airway obstruction, and, most concerning to regulatory agencies, animal carcinogenicity. However, the literature found that there was great variation in the dose and strength of gentian violet applied. Case reports with adverse events usually used high strengths of gentian violet applied more frequently than recommended. A lower strength of gentian violet solution applied as needed is less likely to result in adverse events. Patients may self-select higher strengths of gentian violet or apply more frequently than recommended. If recommended for treatment-resistant OPC and nipple candidiasis, counseling should accompany OTC use of gentian violet

This study evaluated the nutritional value and chemical composition of five selected fodder; Boma Rhodes, lucerne, greenleaf Desmodium, chicory, and sweet potato vines which were collected from three geographically distinct regions: Bomet, Nyandarua, and Nyeri, and taken for chemical analysis in the Animal Nutrition laboratory in Animal Science department at Egerton University. These fodder species were analysed for their proximate composition, metabolisable energy, and van Soest composition. All these analyses were done on a dry matter basis. All these results were analysed at P

Over three decades, the mean daily milk production per cow in these regions has remained stagnant at a mere 6 kg/day with most smallholder farmers yielding a mere 3.67 litres of milk per cow daily, it's evident that their productivity falls well below par. In an effort to address this issue, a study conducted delves into the second objective, which revolves around assessing the effects of diverse dietary supplements on milk yield across the distinct geographical areas of Nyandarua, Bomet, and Nyeri. The study involved the utilization of a supplementary feed mixture which was 400 g/kg DM of dry matter content, comprising; lucerne, greenleaf desmodium, sweet potato vines, and chicory, which was chopped and mixed in a ratio of 1:2:3:1. Supplementation was done at the following inclusion levels; T1 (0%), T2 (10%), T3 (20%) and T4 (30%) of the estimated daily dry matter intake of 4% of the live body weight of the dairy cow. A basal diet of boma Rhodes which was 400 g/kg DM of dry matter content was used. This study ran for nine weeks in each region; one week of backgrounding all the animals, followed by fourteen days of adaptation and a month and a half of data collection. The research scrutinizes the outcomes of milk production resultant from diets featuring supplementation levels ranging from 10% to 30% in Friesian dairy cows. The findings reveal that, in Bomet, There isn't a significant variation in milk production between diets exhibiting 10% and 30% supplementation, suggesting a potential plateau in response to heightened supplementation levels. Conversely, in Nyandarua, diets supplemented with 20% and 30% show no significant variance in milk yield, spotlighting the efficacy of a moderate supplementation level. In Nyeri, noteworthy disparities in milk yield emerge between diets with 10% and 30% supplementation levels

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in pathological processes and provide hope for the development of treatments aimed at suppressing the effects of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2 ). However, attempts to inhibit superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), the main antioxidant enzyme that converts superoxide anion into H2O2 and water during ROS metabolism, have not yielded significant results. To understand the reason for the failure, we studied the behavior of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in cancer cells exposed to H2O2 -generating compounds. EGFR can be activated by binding of EGF ligand to the extracellular region of the receptor and by interaction of H2O2 -generating chemicals with the catalytic cysteine in the intracellular domain of the receptor. Both mechanisms independently trigger downstream signaling pathways in cells. EGFR expression can also be reduced by the protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP-1B, which itself is activated by H2O2 . A simple in-gel fluorescence technique demonstrates the rapid binding of H2O2 -generating molecules to hundreds of proteins in cancer cells. The natural defense system Nrf2 takes longer to break down target proteins and therefore cannot prevent H2O2 released by chemical agents from affecting unwanted proteins. It can be concluded that cytoplasmic SOD1 and other H2O2 -producing proteins that protect cells from oxidative damage are not suitable targets for the development of practical drugs for the treatment of human diseases.

Background: Isotretinoin helps to control acne which is partly due to Cutibacterium acnes infection. Objective: Assess whether Isotretinoin may also help to control other types of infections which may directly or indirectly be associated with biofilms containing Cutibacterium acnes such as periodontitis, herpetic infections or HPV-infections. Methods: All relevant medical and biological data were collected during routine consultations for Small Intestinal Bowel Overgrowth from 2021 March 1st to 2024 March 1st

The use of plant-derived products for medicinal purposes, known as phytotherapy, is gaining increasing interest as a complementary approach to traditional protocols in endodontics. This literature review examines the various clinical applications of phytotherapy in endodontics, with a particular focus on its potential utility in all stages of conservative or surgical endodontic management. This analysis draws upon in vivo and in vitro data to examine the specific indications of phytotherapy, with a particular focus on its advantages in terms of antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative activity. As a supplementary approach, phytotherapy offers a natural and promising alternative to enhance the outcomes of endodontic treatments, while providing a sustainable perspective on oral healthcare

Background: To investigate the clinical performance of minimally invasive surgical approaches for interdental tissue preservation in association with enamel matrix derivatives in the treatment of intraosseous defects. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out (PROSPERO: CRD42020135131) through research, extraction and analysis of data in duplicate, according to the PICOS strategy. The Ovid MEDLINE databases were consulted; Ovid EMBASE; Open Gray and in the journals Journal of Periodontology, Journal of Clinical Periodontology, Journal of Periodontal Research and Journal of Dental Research, the search covered an unlimited period until May 2019, following the guide PRISMA. For assessment was used Cochrane Collaboration's risk. Results: Eight randomized controlled trials reporting 557 subjects and 698 defects were identified. Among in techniques for preserving interdental tissues, there were no differences between them. However, in the meta-analysis obtained by the studies, the results were superior in clinical gain of insertion in favor of the test group [n = 119; MD= 0.92; 95%; IC (0.35; 1.50); p = 0.002 I² 78%], with these results statistically significant Conclusions: the open flap debridement technique using interdental tissue preservation approaches in association with EMD promote slightly superior clinical results in insertion gain. Clinical Relevance: Assist the professional in their clinical practice in traeatment of periodontal defects with minimally surgical approachs and Furthermore, demonstrate the possibility and the benefits of using the biomaterials like the enamel derivative proteins in the regeneration these periodontal defects

Introduction: A condition where one or more teeth are missing in the mouth is referred to as partial edentulism. These missing teeth could be replaced by removable partial denture (RPD) or fixed partial denture. Factors that determine choice of replacing missing teeth includes but not limited to; esthetic, mastication and prevention of further tooth loss. The aim of this study was to compare factor that motivate male denture wearers to replace their missing teeth with the female counterpart Method: This cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire-based study was conducted in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital and Nigeria Navy Reference Hospital, Calabar. The respondents comprise of patients who presented at the dental clinic of both Hospital. Inclusion criteria were patients who requested for the replacement of their missing teeth and gave inform consent, while exclusion criteria were those who requested for tooth extraction etc. Questionnaires was delivered to each participant by hand and collected after it was filled. The questionnaire was divided into two sections. The first is for information of the respondents while the second was on reason for seeking tooth replacement

Australian scientists have recently uncovered a groundbreaking discovery suggesting that diabetes, specifically type 1 diabetes, may be effectively treated using existing cancer drugs. The research indicates that two types of drugs commonly employed in cancer treatments have demonstrated the potential to prevent type 1 diabetes, with the remarkable capability of inducing insulin hormone production within the pancreas in as little as 48 hours. The experimental validation of this approach involved a successful trial conducted on three individuals, providing encouraging results that could revolutionize diabetes treatment. With more than 420 million people worldwide grappling with diabetes, this discovery holds significant promise for addressing a global health challenge. Further research and clinical trials are warranted to explore the full potential and safety of these cancer drugs as a potential cure for diabetes. If successful, this innovative approach may offer new hope to millions living with diabetes and pave the way for transformative advancements in diabetes care

Background: Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections encountered by clinicians in developing countries. A biofilm is a structured consortium of bacteria embedded in a self-produced polymer matrix consisting of polysaccharide, protein and DNA. Antibiotic resistance is a problem of deep scientific concern both in hospital and community settings. This study was aimed to determine the biofilm producers among multidrug uropathogenic bacteria isolated from urine cultures

Maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) is the most effective interventional therapy for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Our aim was to investigate the serum levels of aluminum (Al) and arsenic (As) in CKD patients. Methods: A total of 29 CKD patients receiving MHD were surveyed for selected biochemical, and dialysis quality indices. Serum Al and As levels were measured before and after MHD. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-test or Mann-Whitney, Kaplan-Meier, Pearson, or Spearman's rho correlations

Wilt disease of tomato is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici and it is an important disease which causes significant yield reduction in the crop throughout the world. A study was undertaken to isolate, identify and test the pathogenicity of F. oxysporum f. sp. Lycopersici on tomato; and to evaluate the bioactivity of Azadirachta indica leaf, Piper guineense seed and Zingiber officinale rhizome extracts as well as the synthetic fungicide, mancozeb at different concentrations and combinations for the management of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici in vitro. Results revealed that the percentage frequency of the fungus isolated and identified was more on the roots (35.56 %) than the stems (26.67 %), fruits (20.00 %) and leaves (17.77 %). Results of the pathogenicity test showed more virulence in the roots than in other parts of the tomato plant. Extracts of the three plants and mancozeb proved effective in controlling the mycelial growth of the fungus either alone or when combined. Mancozeb consistently gave 100 % growth inhibition irrespective of the concentration used. Among the plant extracts applied alone at 40 g/L, Z. officinale (66.69 %) was the most effective followed by P. guineense (53.52 %) while A. indica was the least (36.99 %). The mycelial growth inhibition increased from 40 g/L to 120 g/L irrespective of the combination of the treatments used. A combination of mancozeb with any plant extract was more effective than a combination of the plant extracts. It is therefore, recommended that the plant extracts be applied either alone or in combination with other plant extracts or the fungicide to control F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici, increase tomato yield and reduce postharvest rots associated with the pathogen

The mastitis carcinomatosa or inflammatory breast carcinoma is an aggressive form of mammary tumors. Diagnosis is made on clinical, cytology and histology correlation. Imaging is performed to look for the extent of disease. Breast carcinoma with osteoclastic giant cells (OGCs) are uncommon. Here, we report a 35 year old woman with a painless lump in her left breast that has been proved clinically and radiologically. Microscopic examination reveal differential diagnosis of Inflammatory breast carcinoma and Infiltrating carcinoma with osteoclastic giant cells.