To what extent do community members participate in planning, implementing health programs within their communities and what are the benefits of their participation in Nigeria?

Background: Community participation in health programs helps drive collaborations between the formal health structures and informal health system actors in promoting health at the community level. This paper provides new information on the extent of community participation in the planning and implementation of community-based health programs in Nigeria as a trajectory for strengthening the health system. Methods: This was a qualitative study. Data was collected from three located in different geographic zones of Nigeria. Two local governments (rural and urban) with evidence of health programs were purposively selected in each state. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The data was transcribed, coded manually and analysed thematically. Results: Several health programs were identified in the community. It was found that while community leaders are hardly involved in conceptualizing and planning health programs, however, they participate in program implementation by mobilizing community resources and encouraging members to take advantage of available health activities. Our findings also showed increased benefits of the involvement of the informal health workers in the health system. Conclusions: Community participation and involvement in health as part of community health system (CHS) activities has led to better and well-improved services, increased willingness to access immunization services. Communities are readily available to contribute to health activities, but they should be involved in the initiation and planning of health activities for ownership and full participation. This would improve health outcomes and contribute to strengthening the community health system.

Observation of cardiac profile among the adult population of Sreemangal

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The prevalence and risk factors of CVDs vary across different populations and regions. This study aimed to observe the cardiac profile among the adult population of Sreemangal, Bangladesh, to identify the prevalence and risk factors of CVDs in this population. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a six-month period at a public health camp in Sreemangal, Bangladesh. A total of 137 adult participants were purposively selected. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and physical examination, including measurements of blood pressure and laboratory analysis of blood samples. Results: The study found that 44.53% of participants had elevated blood pressure, and 21.90% had stage 1 hypertension. Interestingly, 36.50% of participants were unaware of their hypertension status. Furthermore, 26.28% of participants had a known history of diabetes, but blood glucose level analysis revealed an additional 14.85% of participants were prediabetic, and 6.93% were diabetic based on fasting blood glucose levels. A statistically significant association was found between increasing age and the stage of hypertension (p<0.001), and between fasting and normal blood glucose levels and the stage of hypertension (p<0.005 and p<0.05, respectively). Conclusions: The findings of this study underscore the need for targeted interventions to prevent and manage CVDs in the adult population of Sreemangal, Bangladesh. These interventions should include regular screening for CVD risk factors, health education to increase awareness of these risk factors, and strategies to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors.

Significance of calcium: its correlation with red and white muscle contraction, fatigue and potential

According to the predominant types of muscle fibers in an individual, they will have the ability to perform different types of exercises (both aerobic and anaerobic). To comprehend the mechanism of muscle fibers, which can act in diverse ways, enhancing either resistance or power, it is essential to examine the significance of calcium. Calcium plays a crucial role in both red and white muscle fibers. The release of calcium in white (fast-twitch) muscle fibers is significantly greater and faster, resulting in increased energy consumption, facilitating explosive physical activities. Conversely, in red (slow-twitch) muscle fibers, the release of calcium occurs in smaller amounts and over a prolonged period, leading to sustained energy consumption. The characteristics of contraction in red fibers enable endurance activities. A reduction in the amount of calcium results in diminished muscle contractile capacity, known as fatigue. The primary contributing factor, as previously mentioned, is the decline in calcium, but factors such as lactic acid and the dephosphorylation of the myosin head also contribute to its onset.

Caregiver burden of the elderly in a selected urban community, Chittoor district, Andhra Pradesh

Background: In India, families are the primary source of support in caring for the elderly, whereas the potential group of family caregivers is shrinking. Caregivers need greater recognition and support to help them care for the elderly and to maintain their own health and well-being. Assessment of the perceived burden of caregivers helps identify those in need of support. Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted to estimate the perceived level of caregiver burden in families of elderly and to identify the association between selected socio-demographic characteristics of the caregivers and the level of caregiver burden. The caregivers of 50 elderly people categorized as mild and moderate dependents as per the Katz index of Independence were included in the study. The Zarith caregiver burden scale was used to evaluate their perceived level of caregiver burden. Results: Thirty-two (64%) caregivers were found to experience a mild to moderate perceived level of caregiver burden. An ordinal regression analysis between other burdens/responsibilities (predictor) of the caregiver and the perceived level of caregiver burden showed a significant association (?2; p=0.009) between the two. An odds ratio of 6.7 (95% CI, 2.22 to 22.7; p=0.00115) showed that as the predictor increased, the event (caregiver burden) increased as well. Conclusions: The majority of the caregivers suffer from a mild to moderate perceived level of caregiver burden. They experience more burden when they hold additional responsibility of caring for the elderly.

Drug induced iatrogenic Cushing抯 syndrome

Drug-induced (iatrogenic) Cushing's syndrome results from excessive or prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids, commonly prescribed for autoimmune, inflammatory, and hematological disorders due to their anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and proapoptotic effects. Despite their therapeutic benefits, these medications can lead to a range of multisystemic symptoms mirroring those of endogenous Cushing抯 syndrome. This review aims to elucidate the causes, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome, emphasizing awareness of medications that can trigger its onset. The following review covers cortisol physiology, Cushing's syndrome etiology and subtypes, hypercortisolism complications and prognosis, and strategies for glucocorticoid withdrawal. This article synthesizes key findings and recommendations, highlighting challenges and controversies in the diagnosis and treatment of iatrogenic Cushing's syndrome.

Ozone and peroxone disinfection of Toxocara canis eggs in water

@#Water pollution in developing countries continues to be a major health problem due to various anthropological activities that contribute to the spread of many parasitic diseases, including those caused by helminths. The aim of this study is to explore the ability of ozone and peroxone to disinfect drinking water contaminated samples with Toxocara canis eggs. The oxidants used were ozone and ozone-hydrogen peroxide combination. The treatment of Toxocara canis eggs was carried out in a 50 ml reactor with an operating volume of 10 ml. The pH conditions (5, 7 and 10) were varied for each treatment. The treatment effect was calculated by counting eggs and examining the condition of the larvae larval condition (whole, broken and hatched larvae) using an optical microscope. The experiment was carried out by exposing the eggs for 60 and 120 minutes to ozone and peroxone. The best results were obtained for helminths treated with the ozone/hydrogen peroxide combination at pH 10, with an inactivation of 79.2%. The synergistic effect of ozone combined with hydrogen peroxide allows higher helminth egg inactivation rates, demonstrating that advanced oxidation processes are a real alternative to apply in the inactivation of Toxocara canis eggs. The results obtained in this study show that the ozone and peroxone treatment could be a useful disinfection process to destroy or inactivate Toxocara canis eggs in processes commonly applied in water treatment.

Prevalence of brain fag syndrome and its correlation with stimulant use and socioeconomic/demographic characteristics among university undergraduate students in Nigeria

Background: Brain Fag Syndrome (BFS) is a culture-bound syndrome characterized by cognitive and somatic symptoms, commonly reported among African students. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of BFS among Nigerian university students and examine its associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate students from a university in the northwest region of Nigeria. The study utilized a self-administered questionnaire to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, stimulant use, course of study, and academic performance. The presence of BFS was assessed using standardized diagnostic criteria. Results:The study included a total of 625 participants, in their young adulthood. The prevalence of BFS among Nigerian university students was found to be 62.7%. The majority of affected students were aged 20-30, male, and from the Hausa ethnic group. No significant association was found between stimulant use and BFS. However, there was a significant relationship between the course of study and the occurrence of BFS. Academic performance (CGPA) showed a weak negative association with BFS. Other socio-demographic factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, relationship status, birth position, type of home, and family income did not predict the occurrence of BFS. Conclusion: The high prevalence highlights the need for attention to mental health issues among this population. The results emphasize the importance of considering the course of study and academic performance when studying BFS. Further research is warranted to explore the underlying mechanisms and develop effective interventions for students affected by BFS.

Effects of blood and root-dentin cleaning on the porosity and bond strength of a collagen bioceramic material

Abstract To assess the effect of cleaning protocols on dentin contaminated with blood in reparative endodontic materials, bovine root samples were divided: no contamination (N); contamination (P); contamination and cleaning with saline (S), 2.5% NaOCl+saline (Na) or 2.5% NaOCl+17% EDTA+saline (NaE) and filled with: mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), calcium-aluminate-cement (C), or C+collagen (Ccol) (n=13). The samples were evaluated for porosity, chemical composition, and bond strength. MTA porosity was lower than C (p=0.02) and higher than Ccol (p<0.001). P and NaE were similar (p=1.00), but higher than the other groups (p<0.001). MTA bond strength was similar to Ccol (p=0.777) and lower than C (p=0.028). P presented lower bond strength than the N (p<0.001); S and Na were similar to each other (p=0.969), but higher than P and lower than N (p<0.001). It was observed a predominance of mixed and cohesive failures. None of the samples showed Ca/P ratio values similar to human hydroxyapatite. This study showed that contamination with blood increased the materials porosity, but dentin cleaning with 2.5% NaOCl reduced this effect, and the collagen additive reduced the material porosity. Furthermore, blood contamination reduced the materials bond strength, and cleaning with saline or 2.5% NaOCl diminished this effect.

Resumo As amostras de raízes bovinas foram divididas em: sem contaminação (N); contaminação sanguínea (P); contaminação sanguínea e limpeza com soro fisiológico (S), 2,5% NaOCl+soro fisiológico (Na) ou 2,5% NaOCl+17%EDTA+soro fisiológico (NaE) e preenchido com: agregado de trióxido mineral (MTA), cimento de aluminato de cálcio (C), ou C+colágeno (Ccol) (n=13). A porosidade do MTA foi menor que C (p=0,02) e maior que Ccol (p<0,001). P e NaE foram semelhantes (p=1,00), mas superiores aos demais grupos (p<0,001). A resistência de união do MTA foi semelhante ao Ccol (p=0,777) e inferior ao C (p=0,028). P apresentou menor resistência de união que o N (p<0,001); S e Na foram semelhantes entre si (p=0,969), porém maiores que P e menores que N (p<0,001). Este estudo mostrou que a contaminação com sangue aumentou a porosidade dos cimentos, mas a limpeza da dentina com NaOCl 2,5% reduziu esse efeito, e o aditivo de colágeno reduziu a porosidade dos cimentos. Além disso, a contaminação sanguínea reduziu a resistência de união dos cimentos e a limpeza com solução salina ou NaOCl 2,5% diminuiu esse efeito.

Precise Methods for Single Spore Isolation and Controlled Sporulation in Magnaporthe oryzae Isolates

The present investigation focuses on enhancing the understanding of Magnaporthe oryzae, the causal agent of rice blast disease, by developing simple and cost-efficient protocols for single spore isolation and controlled sporulation with minimal equipment. In pursuit of this objective, various natural hosts were evaluated for their sporulation potential at different time intervals. The results revealed the significant differences in sporulation of M. oryzae among different hosts at different time intervals, showing higher sporulation at 14 DAI compared to 10 DAI. Notably, rice leaves from TN-1 and HR-12 cultivars exhibited robust sporulation at 14 DAI under a 14-hr light + 8 hr dark conditions. Validating these findings, twelve isolates from various locations in Telangana State consistently confirmed that rice leaves from cultivar TN-1 supporting the highest mean sporulation rate, followed by the HR-12 cultivar. The implications of these findings extend to aiding researchers and rice breeders in comprehending disease dynamics, formulating effective control strategies, and developing rice cultivars resilient against rice blast.

Optimizing vitiligo treatment: examining the role of narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy

Vitiligo is a common autoimmune-pigment disorder associated with skin depigmentation. Narrow-band ultraviolet B phototherapy (NB-UVB) has become an effective treatment option for this disease, resulting in significant pigmentation in patients, especially those with facial lesions and dark skin tones. However, the best treatment plan is still under discussion, and more research is needed to assess long-term safety, including the risk of skin cancer. In addition, alternative options such as current immunomodulators and herbal therapies are promising but need further studies. This study reviewed the existing literature on NB-UVB phototherapy's efficacy and safety profile for treating vitiligo. The study focused on factors affecting the treatment response and the potential benefits of combining NB-UVB with other treatments. NB-UVB phototherapy is safe and effectively reduces depigmentation in vitiligo patients. Factors such as disease duration, skin type, and scope of vitiligo lesions may influence treatment results. Using NB-UVB with other treatments can increase results. Although UVB NB phototherapy is a safe and effective option for vitiligo treatment, more research is needed to optimize its use and improve treatment outcomes, especially in different patient groups.

Double Outlet Right Ventricle Infective Endocarditis: A Rare Combination and a Therapeutic Challenge

Infective endocarditis involving the right side of the heart occurs rarely and often involves the tricuspid valve. The isolated pulmonary valve infective endocarditis (IPVIE) is a less common condition that occurs in specific population. The double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is an unusual congenital heart disease. The association of DORV and IPVIE darkens the prognosis. We report two cases of the association of DORV and IPVIE. The transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the base to the diagnosis. Right sided infective endocarditis in the lack of a guided strategy remains a therapeutic challenge.

The Power and Promise of Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor (ARNI) in Heart Failure Management: National Consensus Statement

Heart failure (HF) is a huge global public health task due to morbidity, mortality, disturbed quality of life, and major economic burden. It is an area of active research and newer treatment strategies are evolving. Recently angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), a class of drugs (the first agent in this class, Sacubitril–Valsartan), reduces cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in chronic HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Positive therapeutic effects have led to a decrease in cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalizations (HFH), with a favorable safety profile, and have been documented in several clinical studies with an unquestionable survival benefit with ARNI, Sacubitril–Valsartan. This consensus statement of the Indian group of experts in cardiology, nephrology, and diabetes provides a comprehensive review of the power and promise of ARNI in HF management and an evidence-based appraisal of the use of ARNI as an essential treatment strategy for HF patients in clinical practice. Consensus in this review favors an early utility of Sacubitril–Valsartan in patients with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF), regardless of the previous therapy being given. A lower rate of hospitalizations for HF with Sacubitril–Valsartan in HF patients with preserved EF who are phenotypically heterogeneous suggests possible benefits of ARNI in patients having 40–50% of LVEF, frequent subtle systolic dysfunction, and higher hospitalization risk.

A combination effect of manual assisted cough techniques and respiratory proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on ventilatory decompression craniotomy patients: a case report

After traumatic brain injury (TBI), brain starts swelling due to the formation of hematomas in the intracranial cavity and owing to forming rigid nature of the skull. Decompression craniotomy is a surgical procedure in which skull is removed and underlying dura is opened-for escalating the brain edema. Patients with TBI will be on prolonging bed rest depending on severity of injury and level of consciousness i.e., low GCS score and neuromuscular weakness. Prolong bed rest can contribute to cardio-pulmonary dysfunction and there by receiving ventilatory support via endotracheal tube or tracheostomy. Experience of ineffective cough reduced airway in the lung field due to impaired respiratory muscle weakness or paralysis which contributes various pathophysiological effects in TBI. A case report study of 51 years old patient diagnosed with TBI with left sided subdural haemorrhage with right extradural haemorrhage who operated for decompression craniotomy and with ventilatory support. Outcomes were taken on day one and fourteenth day i.e., vitals, GCS score, RLA stage, chest expansion, lung compliance and ICP, there is significant improvements in outcomes is seen after intervention. In the present case study, combination of manual assisted cough techniques (MACT) and respiratory PNF have shown improvement in efficacy of cough, thoracic cage mobility and weaning off from ventilator, hence by implementing these combination techniques, will reduce ICU stay and improve quality of life.

Profil évolutif de la limboconjonctivité endémique des tropiques à l'hôpital gynéco-obstétrique et pédiatrique de Yaoundé / Gynecological cancer in oncology practice in Lomé

Introduction. La limbo-conjonctivite endémique des tropiques (LCET) est une kérato-conjonctivite allergique récidivante du jeune enfant qui s'améliore après la puberté mais peut persister. Le but de cette étude était de déterminer le profil évolutif de la LCETdans notre pratique. Méthodologie. Étude longitudinale descriptive menée dans l'unité d'ophtalmologie de l'Hôpital Gynéco-Obstétrique et Pédiatrique de Yaoundé. Tous les dossiers de LCET reçus de janvier 2011 à décembre 2019 avec un recul d'aumoins deux ans de suivi ont été recensés. Les patients qui ont accepté de participer après apptéléphonique ont été inclus de janvier à mai 2021.Les variables d'étudeétaient: âge, sexe, acuité visuelle (AV), caractéristiques de la LCET selon Diallo, pronostic fonctionnel et anatomique en post puberté (plus de 15 ans). Résultats. Au total,30 patients (60 yeux) ont été étudiés. Le sex-ratio était de 2. La moyenne d'âge était de 15 ans ± 9 ans. Initialement, le prurit était le maitre symptôme (96,7%). Après un recul moyen de cinq ans, l'AV était utile chez tous les patients (100%) et la LCET stade 2 plus représentée (60%). Le nombre moyen de récidives était de trois. Les patients post pubertaires on eu une amélioration anatomique dans 56.7% des caset une aggravation dans 10%des casConclusion. Notre travail confirme l'amélioration post pubertaire globale de la LCET, nonobstant quelques formes graves depronosticpéjoratif pour la fonction visuelle.

Introduction. Tropical endemiclimbo-conjunctivitis (TELC) is a recurrent allergic kerato-conjunctivitis in young children which improves after puberty but may persist. The aim of this study was to determine the evolutionof TELCin our setting. Methodology. This was a longitudinal descriptive study conducted in the ophthalmology unit of the Yaoundé Gyneco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital. All TELC files received from January 2011 to December 2019 with a follow-up of at least two years of follow-up were identified. Patients who agreed to participate after a phone call were included from January to May 2021. The variables of interest were: age, sex, visual acuity (VA), TELC classification according to Diallo, functional and anatomical prognosis in post puberty (more than 15 years).A totalof30 patients (60 eyes) were recruited. The sex ratio was 2. The average age was 15 ± 9 years. Initially, pruritus was the main symptom (96.7%). After an average follow-up of five years, VA was usefulin all patients (100%) and TELCstage 2 was the most frequent stage (60%). The mean number of recurrences was three. Postpubertal patients had anatomical improvement in 56.7% of cases and worsening in 10%of cases. Conclusion. Our study confirms the overall postpubertal improvement ofTELC, except some serious forms with poor prognosis ofvisual function

Prise en charge des hémopathies malignes au centre national d'oncologie médicale et de radiothérapie Alassane Ouattara d'Abidjan / Managem ent of hem atologic neoplasm sat the Centre National d'Oncologie Médicale et de Radiothérapie Alassane Ouattara ofAbidjan

Introduction. Les hémopathies malignes sont des proliférations anormales et anarchiques de cellules hématopoïétiques à point de départ médullaire ou périphérique. Notre étude qui avait pour objectif de faire le bilan de la prise en charge des hémopathies malignes au Centre national d'oncologie médical et de radiothérapie Alassane Ouattara. Méthodes. Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective descriptive d'une durée de 2 ans 3 mois allant du 1er janvier 2018 au 31 Mars 2020 portant sur 80 dossiers de malades porteurs d'hémopathies malignes et prise en charge dans le centre. Résultats. Notre étude a permis de recenser 2,2% d'hémopathies malignes sur les 3650 cas de pathologies cancéreuses recensées au CNRAO, soit une incidence 26,66 cas/an avec un sex-ratio 1,2. Les syndromes lymphoprolifératifs (SLP) sont les plus fréquents (96,25 %), sous trois principales formes: lymphomes malins non hodgkiniens (LMNH) non Burkitt (51,25%), leucémie myéloïde chronique (20%) et le myélome multiple (16,25%). Les LMNH représentent 51,25% des HM recensées avec 41,46 % de lymphomes de haut grade de malignité. La chimiothérapie était de mise chez tous nos patients. Ainsi sur 41 cas de LMNH, seulement 12 (29,27%) ont bénéficié du protocole R-CHOP. On notait 46,34% de réponse complète. Dans notre étude, le LH représentait 8,75% il était traité à 71,43% avec le protocole ABVD avec une réponse complète chez 6 patients. 37,5% des patients porteurs de leucémie myéloïde chronique ont reçu le Rituximab; ils ont été traités par les protocoles COP (31,25%), CHOP (31,25%), RCVP (12,5%) et R-CHOP (25%). La réponse thérapeutique était complète à 68,75%. Le protocole utilisé dans le traitement du myélome multiple a été le VMCD-REV à 76,92% avec pour réponse thérapeutique complète chez 6 patients, 3 réponses partielles et 4 en cours de traitement. Conclusion. Les SLP qui sont les plus fréquents des HM avec trois principales formes: LMNH non Burkitt, leucémie myéloïde chronique et myélome multiple. Nous avons cependant des difficultés quant à la mise en route de la chimiothérapie.

Introduction. Hematologic neoplasms are abnormal and anarchic proliferations of hematopoietic cells with a medullary or peripheral starting point. Our study aimed to report the management of hematological malignancies at the Centre National d'Oncologie Médicale et de Radiothérapie Alassane Ouattara (CNRAO). Methods. This was a descriptive retrospective study lasting 2 years 3 months from January 1st, 2018 to March 31st, 2020 concerning 80 patients with hematologic neoplasms who were managed in the CNRAO. Results. Hematologic neoplasms represented 2.2% of cancers (80/3650) at CNRAO, giving an annual incidence of 26.66 cases. The sex ratio was 1.2. Lymphoproliferative syndromes were the most common subgroups (96.25%). These were mainly non-Burkitt non Hodgkin lymphoma (51.25%), high grade lymphomas (41.46%), chronic lymphocytic lymphoma (20%) and multiple myeloma (16.25%). Chemotherapy was administered to all patients. Among 41 cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, 12 (29.27%) benefited from the R-CHOP protocol and full response was observed in 46.34% of them. We found 7 patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (8.75%) and the ABVD protocol was used for 6 cases (71.43%). Six out of these seven patients were in complete response. Among the 16 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 6 (37.5%) received Rituximab. The distribution of the patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia was as follows: COP 31.25%, CHOP 31.25%, RCVP 12.5% and R-CHOP 25% and 68.75% had full response. The most common treatment protocol for multiple myeloma was VMCD-REV (76.92%). Six patients had complete response, 3 had partial response and 4 were in the course of treatment. Conclusion. In our practice, hematologic neoplasms are mainly lymphoproliferative syndromes and the most common varieties are non-Burkitt non Hodgkin lymphoma, high grade lymphomas, chronic lymphocytic lymphoma and multiple myeloma. We have difficulties in getting chemotherapy started.

Supporting undergraduate research capacity development: A process evaluation of an Undergraduate Research Office at a South African Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Background. University-based research capacity development (RCD) mechanisms tend to focus on staff and postgraduate students, with few structures targeted at undergraduate students. Support for undergraduate research must be tailored to the unique requirements of research at this level, while maintaining links with relevant structures in both the RCD and teaching and learning domains. Objective. To conduct a process evaluation of the Undergraduate Research Office (URO) in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, using RCD and characteristics of excellence in undergraduate research criteria as benchmarks. Methods. A process evaluation of URO's first 6 years was conducted using a logic model of URO's inputs, activities, and outputs. Through a retrospective document review, a descriptive analysis of URO's inputs and activities (narrative) and URO's outputs (statistical) was conducted. Results. Following a description of inputs and activities, results present URO's outputs as a measure of the uptake of these activities. From 2015 to 2020, 259 undergraduate research projects were completed. Research consultations, workshops and undergraduate presentations at the faculty's Annual Academic Day have more than doubled since URO's inception. The Undergraduate Research Ethics Committee has reviewed 243 ethics applications since 2015, with a 1 - 2-week turnaround time. A total of 134 funding applications worth ZAR705 986 have been awarded for research project, conference presentation and publication costs. Conclusion. Results show the potential impact of a formal undergraduate research support entity on the undergraduate research outputs of a Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. This article highlights elements for success for formal undergraduate research support, and identifies gaps going forward.

Barriers to patient recruitment in a poststroke neurorehabilitation multicenter trial in Brazil

There is a high demand for stroke rehabilitation in the Brazilian public health system, but most studies that have addressed rehabilitation for unilateral spatial neglect (USN) after stroke have been performed in high-income countries. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze USN patient recruitment in a multicenter noninvasive brain stimulation clinical trial performed in Brazil and to provide study design recommendations for future studies. We evaluated the reasons for exclusion of patients from a multicenter, randomized, double-blinded clinical trial of rehabilitation of USN patients after stroke. Clinical and demographic variables were compared between the included and excluded patients. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Only 173 of the 1953 potential neglect patients (8.8%) passed the initial screening. After screening evaluation, 87/173 patients (50.3%) were excluded for clinical reasons. Cognitive impairment led to the exclusion of 21/87 patients (24.1%). Low socioeconomic status led to the exclusion of 37/173 patients (21.4%). Difficulty obtaining transportation to access treatment was the most common reason for their exclusion (16/37 patients, 43.3%). The analyzed Brazilian institutions have potential for conducting studies of USN. The recruitment of stroke survivors with USN was restricted by the study design and limited financial support. A history of cognitive impairment, intracranial stenting or craniectomy, and lack of transportation were the most common barriers to participating in a multicenter noninvasive brain stimulation trial among patients with USN after stroke.

Integrative analysis in toxicological assessment of the insecticide Malathion in Allium cepa L system / Análise integrativa na avaliação toxicológica do inseticida Malation no sistema Allium cepa L

For many centuries human populations have been suffering and trying to fight with disease-bearing mosquitoes. Emerging and reemerging diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya affect billions of people around the world and recently has been appealing to control with chemical pesticides. Malathion (MT) is one of the main pesticides used against mosquitoes, the vectors of these diseases. This study aimed to assess cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of the malathion for the bioindicator Allium cepa L. using a multivariate and integrative approach. Moreover, an appendix table was compiled with all available literature of insecticides assessed by the Allium cepa system to support our discussion. Exposures during 48h to 0.5 mg mL-¹ and 1.0 mg mL-¹ MT were compared to the negative control (distilled water) and positive control (MMS solution at 10 mg L-¹). The presence of chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei frequency, and mitotic index abnormalities was evaluated. Anaphase bridges were the alterations with higher incidence and presented a significantly elevated rate in the concentration of 0.5 mg mL-¹, including when compared to the positive control. The integrative discriminant analysis summarizes that MT in assessed concentrations presented effects like the positive control, corroborating its potential of toxicity to DNA. Therefore, it is concluded that MT in its pure composition and in realistic concentrations used, has genotoxic potential in the biological assessment of A. cepa cells. The multivariate integrative analysis was fundamental to show a whole response of all data, providing a global view of the effect of MT on DNA.

Por muitos séculos, as populações humanas sofrem e tentam combater os mosquitos transmissores de doenças. Doenças emergentes e reemergentes como Dengue, Zika e Chikungunya afetam bilhões de pessoas em todo o mundo e, recentemente, vem apelando ao controle com pesticidas químicos. O Malation (MT) é um dos principais pesticidas usados contra mosquitos, vetores dessas doenças. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a citotoxicidade e a mutagenicidade do MT para o bioindicador Allium cepa L. usando uma abordagem multivariada e integrativa. Além disso, uma tabela suplementar foi compilada com toda a literatura disponível de inseticidas avaliada pelo sistema Allium cepa para apoiar nossa discussão. Exposições ao MT durante 48h a 0,5 mg mL-¹ e 1,0 mg mL-¹ foram comparadas a um controle negativo (água destilada) e um controle positivo (10 mg L-¹ de MMS). Foram avaliadas a presença de aberrações cromossômicas, frequência de micronúcleos e anormalidades no índice mitótico. As pontes anafásicas foram as alterações com maior incidência e apresentaram uma taxa significativamente elevada na concentração de 0,5 mg mL-¹, inclusive quando comparadas ao controle positivo. A análise discriminante integrativa resume que o MT nas concentrações avaliadas apresentou efeitos semelhantes ao controle positivo, corroborando seu potencial de toxicidade para o DNA. Portanto, conclui-se que o MT, em sua composição pura e nas concentrações realistas utilizadas, possui potencial genotóxico na avaliação biológica de células de A. cepa. A análise integrativa multivariada foi fundamental para mostrar uma resposta completa de todos os dados, fornecendo uma visão global do efeito da MT no DNA.

Integrative analysis in toxicological assessment of the insecticide Malathion in Allium cepa L. system / Análise integrativa na avaliação toxicológica do inseticida Malation no sistema Allium cepa L

Abstract For many centuries human populations have been suffering and trying to fight with disease-bearing mosquitoes. Emerging and reemerging diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya affect billions of people around the world and recently has been appealing to control with chemical pesticides. Malathion (MT) is one of the main pesticides used against mosquitoes, the vectors of these diseases. This study aimed to assess cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of the malathion for the bioindicator Allium cepa L. using a multivariate and integrative approach. Moreover, an appendix table was compiled with all available literature of insecticides assessed by the Allium cepa system to support our discussion. Exposures during 48h to 0.5 mg mL-1 and 1.0 mg mL-1 MT were compared to the negative control (distilled water) and positive control (MMS solution at 10 mg L-1). The presence of chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei frequency, and mitotic index abnormalities was evaluated. Anaphase bridges were the alterations with higher incidence and presented a significantly elevated rate in the concentration of 0.5 mg mL-1, including when compared to the positive control. The integrative discriminant analysis summarizes that MT in assessed concentrations presented effects like the positive control, corroborating its potential of toxicity to DNA. Therefore, it is concluded that MT in its pure composition and in realistic concentrations used, has genotoxic potential in the biological assessment of A. cepa cells. The multivariate integrative analysis was fundamental to show a whole response of all data, providing a global view of the effect of MT on DNA.

Resumo Por muitos séculos, as populações humanas sofrem e tentam combater os mosquitos transmissores de doenças. Doenças emergentes e reemergentes como Dengue, Zika e Chikungunya afetam bilhões de pessoas em todo o mundo e, recentemente, vem apelando ao controle com pesticidas químicos. O Malation (MT) é um dos principais pesticidas usados ​​contra mosquitos, vetores dessas doenças. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a citotoxicidade e a mutagenicidade do MT para o bioindicador Allium cepa L. usando uma abordagem multivariada e integrativa. Além disso, uma tabela suplementar foi compilada com toda a literatura disponível de inseticidas avaliada pelo sistema Allium cepa para apoiar nossa discussão. Exposições ao MT durante 48h a 0,5 mg mL-1 e 1,0 mg mL-1 foram comparadas a um controle negativo (água destilada) e um controle positivo (10 mg L-1 de MMS). Foram avaliadas a presença de aberrações cromossômicas, frequência de micronúcleos e anormalidades no índice mitótico. As pontes anafásicas foram as alterações com maior incidência e apresentaram uma taxa significativamente elevada na concentração de 0,5 mg mL-1, inclusive quando comparadas ao controle positivo. A análise discriminante integrativa resume que o MT nas concentrações avaliadas apresentou efeitos semelhantes ao controle positivo, corroborando seu potencial de toxicidade para o DNA. Portanto, conclui-se que o MT, em sua composição pura e nas concentrações realistas utilizadas, possui potencial genotóxico na avaliação biológica de células de A. cepa. A análise integrativa multivariada foi fundamental para mostrar uma resposta completa de todos os dados, fornecendo uma visão global do efeito da MT no DNA.

Integrative analysis in toxicological assessment of the insecticide Malathion in Allium cepa L. system

Abstract For many centuries human populations have been suffering and trying to fight with disease-bearing mosquitoes. Emerging and reemerging diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya affect billions of people around the world and recently has been appealing to control with chemical pesticides. Malathion (MT) is one of the main pesticides used against mosquitoes, the vectors of these diseases. This study aimed to assess cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of the malathion for the bioindicator Allium cepa L. using a multivariate and integrative approach. Moreover, an appendix table was compiled with all available literature of insecticides assessed by the Allium cepa system to support our discussion. Exposures during 48h to 0.5 mg mL-1 and 1.0 mg mL-1 MT were compared to the negative control (distilled water) and positive control (MMS solution at 10 mg L-1). The presence of chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei frequency, and mitotic index abnormalities was evaluated. Anaphase bridges were the alterations with higher incidence and presented a significantly elevated rate in the concentration of 0.5 mg mL-1, including when compared to the positive control. The integrative discriminant analysis summarizes that MT in assessed concentrations presented effects like the positive control, corroborating its potential of toxicity to DNA. Therefore, it is concluded that MT in its pure composition and in realistic concentrations used, has genotoxic potential in the biological assessment of A. cepa cells. The multivariate integrative analysis was fundamental to show a whole response of all data, providing a global view of the effect of MT on DNA.

Resumo Por muitos séculos, as populações humanas sofrem e tentam combater os mosquitos transmissores de doenças. Doenças emergentes e reemergentes como Dengue, Zika e Chikungunya afetam bilhões de pessoas em todo o mundo e, recentemente, vem apelando ao controle com pesticidas químicos. O Malation (MT) é um dos principais pesticidas usados contra mosquitos, vetores dessas doenças. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a citotoxicidade e a mutagenicidade do MT para o bioindicador Allium cepa L. usando uma abordagem multivariada e integrativa. Além disso, uma tabela suplementar foi compilada com toda a literatura disponível de inseticidas avaliada pelo sistema Allium cepa para apoiar nossa discussão. Exposições ao MT durante 48h a 0,5 mg mL-1 e 1,0 mg mL-1 foram comparadas a um controle negativo (água destilada) e um controle positivo (10 mg L-1 de MMS). Foram avaliadas a presença de aberrações cromossômicas, frequência de micronúcleos e anormalidades no índice mitótico. As pontes anafásicas foram as alterações com maior incidência e apresentaram uma taxa significativamente elevada na concentração de 0,5 mg mL-1, inclusive quando comparadas ao controle positivo. A análise discriminante integrativa resume que o MT nas concentrações avaliadas apresentou efeitos semelhantes ao controle positivo, corroborando seu potencial de toxicidade para o DNA. Portanto, conclui-se que o MT, em sua composição pura e nas concentrações realistas utilizadas, possui potencial genotóxico na avaliação biológica de células de A. cepa. A análise integrativa multivariada foi fundamental para mostrar uma resposta completa de todos os dados, fornecendo uma visão global do efeito da MT no DNA.