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The Schirmer strip measures tear volume in millimeters. A major limitation of the Schirmer strip is that it does not measure tear volume in a volumetric unit. Furthermore, the linearity range, lower limit of detection (LLOD), and lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) are not established. In this context, we developed a new filter paper based tear volume strip, which measures tear volume in microlitres (a volumetric unit), with a defined linearity range, LLOD, LLOQ, as well as inter-day and intra-day variability. We used standard Whatman filter paper no. 41, measuring 40 × 5 mm. Balanced salt solution (BSS) was used as a tear surrogate. By placing a specific volume of BSS at one marked end of the paper, we measured the distance travelled by the BSS after one minute. Different volumes of BSS (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 μl) were used, and the distance travelled by the BSS drop was recorded. Linearity was evaluated, and the LLOQ and LLOD were determined. Scale data were generated within the linearity range (10 replicates for each). Percentage recovery was calculated, and inter-day and intra-day variation as well as intra examiner and inter examiner coefficients of variation (CV%) were evaluated. High linearity (r2 = 0.976) was observed across all the tested volumes (0.5–16 μl), However, linearity improved within the tested volume range of 1–8 μl (r2 = 0.996). With an LLOD of 0.538 μl and an LLOQ of 1.63 μl, data for the scale were generated from 2–8 μl. Overall, volumetric recovery ranged from 97.34%–104%. The intra-day CV% ranged from 4.576% (for 2 μl) to 1.911% (for 5 μl) and 1.71% (for 7 μl). The inter-day CV% ranged from 1.715 (7 μl) to 4.36% (for 2 μl). The intra examiner CV% ranged from 0.422% (for 7 μl) to 2.66% (for 2 μl). The inter examiner CV% ranged from 1.93% (7 μl) to 3.69% (for 2 μl). This new tear volume measuring tool (named SI tear strip) represents a valuable tool for the measurement of tear volume (in μl) per unit time. This tool may be very helpful for the quantitative evaluation of dry eye patients and functional assessment of lacrimal glands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can be transmitted through vertical route from the mother to her child during the period of pregnancy, process of childbirth, or through the breastfeeding. This is still a worldwide health issue, especially in environments with low resources. Without intervention, the transmission rate ranges from 15 to 45%, influenced by breastfeeding practices. Effective interventions, including antiretroviral therapy (ART), can reduce the transmission likelihood to about 2% with breastfeeding and 1% without breastfeeding. A further expansion of access to prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (PMTCT) services was made possible by the year 2011 through the Global Plan toward the Elimination of New HIV Infections among Children and Keeping their Mothers Alive. By 2022, there were 130,000 new HIV infections in children under five, down from 310,000 in 2010. Nevertheless, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Global Strategy to End AIDS's 2025 targets cannot be met with the current level of progress. To prevent new infections in children, pregnant and breastfeeding women with HIV must receive faster medical attention. This position paper discusses the primary prevention of HIV and the healthcare system's role in providing comprehensive care to HIV-positive women and their families. The continuum of care includes antenatal, intrapartum, post-delivery, and pediatric services, addressing the unique needs of each woman and her family. Individual-level interventions highlight the importance of partner selection, consistent condom use, avoiding needle sharing, and reducing risky sexual behaviors. Overcoming barriers to medication adherence, such as stigma and discrimination, is crucial for effective prevention and treatment. Community-level interventions are equally important in reducing stigma and discrimination and fostering healthcare-seeking behavior. The paper emphasizes a multi-faceted approach, involving healthcare systems, individuals, and communities, to accomplish the objective of an HIV-free generation by stopping HIV from spreading through the vertical route. Collaboration across these levels is essential to realizing this vision and ensuring optimal health outcomes for HIV-infected individuals, their children, and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The most reliable indicator for anaemia diagnosis at the population level is haemoglobin (Hb) estimation. The direct cyanmethaemoglobin method is considered the gold standard method for haemoglobin estimation. However, for resource constraint areas like primary health care (PHC) level, either blood samples are transported on filter paper for Hb testing (indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method) in laboratory or point of care testing is commonly used. Therefore, a comparative analysis of haemoglobin estimation of direct with indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method and also with TrueHb (Wrig Nanosystems Pvt. Ltd.) haemometer was done to strengthen anaemia diagnosis at the PHC level. Materials and Methods: This was a cross‑sectional study. A total of 90 participants above 9 years of age, who visited the outpatient department (OPD) of health centre, Kheri and gave consent were included. Comparative analysis was done between Hb concentration assessed by indirect cyanmethaemoglobin method and TrueHb haemometer device against the gold standard method. Results: The mean Hb value estimated by direct method, TrueHb haemometer and indirect methods (filter paper A, B and C) was 11.42 ± 1.59 g/dl, 11.52 ± 1.54 g/dl, 10.66 ± 1.52 g/dl, 9.84 ± 1.50 g/ dl and 10.19 ± 1.62 g/dl, respectively. There was no significant difference found between the mean Hb concentration estimated by the direct method and the TrueHb haemometer device. However, there was a significant difference in mean Hb values between the direct method and the indirect method. Therefore, regression analysis was done to estimate the correction factor for the indirect method. Conclusion: TrueHb metre device gave promising results in comparison to the gold standard method and can be used if resource permits in PHC centres. Indirect methods of haemoglobin estimation can be an alternative in resource‑constraint settings, specifically for surveys. However, further studies are required for the validation of the indirect method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Influenza causes significant morbidity, hospitalizations, and mortality due to lower respiratory tract infections in India. This paper reviews the current evidence regarding influenza epidemiology, the need for vaccination, immunogenicity, and efficacy of available vaccines and provides recommendations for influenza vaccination for adults by the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine (IAPSM). The risk group among adults includes people with chronic disease, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, travelers, and healthcare workers. Influenza activity is affected by seasons, humidity, and latitude, leading to variability in influenza peaks in different regions of India. The most effective preventive intervention against influenza is vaccination. Current influenza vaccines have good safety profiles, vaccine efficacy, and acceptable cost-effectiveness. As the virus mutates, the vaccine composition should follow WHO recommendations for the current influenza season. Introducing readily available, conventional, and less expensive trivalent influenza vaccines under the national program can achieve maximum impact on the adult population and potentially prevent future outbreaks and pandemics. IAPSM recommends considering routine use of IIV for all individuals above 60 years, adults with comorbidities, and pregnant women in India. The program managers should consider the pattern of influenza seasonality in a particular region. Influenza surveillance conducted through a structured network of laboratories in India has the potential to provide information about circulating strains, morbidity, and mortality. IAPSM emphasizes conducting community-based studies regarding influenza's burden, vaccine efficacy, timing of vaccination, and cost-effectiveness among Indian adults to generate evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In research, outcomes are often categorized as primary and secondary. The primary outcome is the most important one; it determines whether the study is considered 'successful' or not. Secondary outcomes are chosen because they provide supporting evidence for the results of the primary outcome or additional information about the subject being studied. For reasons that are explained in this paper, secondary outcomes should be cautiously interpreted. There are varying practices regarding publishing secondary outcomes. Some authors publish these separately, while others include them in the main publication. In some contexts, the former can lead to concerns about the quality and relevance of the data being published. In this article, we discuss primary and secondary outcomes, the importance and interpretation of secondary outcomes, and considerations for publishing multiple outcomes in separate papers. We also discuss the special case of secondary analyses and post hoc analyses and provide guidance on good publishing practices. Throughout the article, we use relevant examples to make these concepts easier to understand. While the article is primarily aimed at early career researchers, it offers insights that may be helpful to researchers, reviewers, and editors across all levels of expertise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the characteristics of retracted oncology papers from Chinese scholars and the reasons for retraction. Methods: Data on retracted oncology papers from Chinese scholars published from 2013 to 2022 were retrieved from the Retraction Watch database. The retraction number and annual distribution, article types, reasons for retraction, retraction time delay, publishers, and journal characteristics of the retracted papers were analyzed. Results: A total of 2695 oncology papers from Chinese scholars published from 2013 to 2022 had been retracted. The majority of these papers were published from 2017 to 2020. In terms of article type, 2538 of the retracted papers were research articles, accounting for 94.17% of the total number of retracted papers. The main reasons for retraction were data, result, and image problems, duplicate publication, paper mills, author- and third-party-related reasons, plagiarism, false reviews, and method errors. The retraction time delay for the retracted papers ranged from 0 to 3582 days (median, 826 days). The retractions mainly occurred within the first 4 years after publication. A total of 77 publishers were involved in the retracted papers. In terms of journal distribution, 394 journals were involved in the retracted papers, of which 368 (93.40%) were included in the SCI database. There were 243 journals with an impact factor of <5 (66.03%). Conclusion: In the field of oncology, the annual distribution of retracted papers from Chinese scholars exhibited first an increasing and subsequently a decreasing trend, reaching a peak in 2019, indicating an improvement in the status of retraction after 2021. The main type of the retracted papers was research article, and the main reason for retraction was academic misconduct. The retractions were mainly concentrated in several major publishers and periodicals in Europe and the United States. Most of the journals had low-impact factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typhoid is a major public health concern in India, particularly among those dwelling in urban slums with poor sanitation. The disease caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi spread majorly through contaminated food and water. The economic burden of the disease is catastrophic and affects both families and the government making a strong case for including typhoid vaccines in the national immunization schedule. The World Health Organization has prequalified several vaccines and has recommended their use in endemic areas. While there is robust evidence for vaccination of children from India and other LMICs, the case for adult vaccination remains less clear. The Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine acknowledges the necessity to adopt a widespread typhoid immunization program, along with other preventive strategies, especially in the vulnerable pockets. IAPSM recommends focusing on newer-generation Typhoid Conjugate Vaccines (TCVs), which provide long-lasting and superior immunological benefits, and are effective across all ages including adults. IAPSM suggests routine use of Typbar-TCV™ for adults up to 45 years old in India. The organization also highlights the necessity for post-marketing surveillance of these vaccines, to monitor the long-term safety and effectiveness of various vaccines in different communities. IAPSM encourages members to take front-line efforts in their community health service areas, and finally appeals for the development of vaccines to cover a more extensive range of Salmonella infections so that control over typhoid can be strengthened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pneumococcal infection among adults is associated with invasive disease and poor outcomes. Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV) introduction has significantly reduced disease burden, invasive disease and reduced the rates of antimicrobial resistance. Of the various vaccines licensed, PCV 13 and PPSV 23 are available for use in India. Pneumococcal vaccination is suggested for people aged 19–64 years with immunosuppression, chronic cardiac, lung and hepatic disease, impaired splenic function, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, current smokers, and those abusing alcohol. It is recommended that people >65 years of age are vaccinated with PPSV23. The suggested regimen is to administer PCV13 followed by PPSV23 after one year. The vaccines have minimal side effects and tolerated well. Data on vaccine effectiveness from Indian studies is limited. Hence, documenting population demographics with surveillance on serotype specific pneumococcal disease burden in adults is needed. Following this, studies on safety, immunogenicity, and cost-effectiveness of the available vaccines need to be designed and implemented. It is suggested that in the initial phase, PCV needs to be made available for high-risk population followed by vaccination roll-out for adult population of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer in women in India, primarily caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Given its long latent period, secondary prevention through screening and early detection is essential. However, fear and stigma associated with cancers and the costs involved in disease management are the prominent barriers to its uptake. HPV vaccination is one of the vital components of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Strategy to speed up the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem. In India, four prophylactic HPV vaccines are currently available. These vaccines are non-infective and highly immunogenic, safe, and effective when administered before HPV exposure. According to WHO recommendations, the primary target group for HPV vaccination consists of girls between the ages of 9 and 14 years. Further, studies have confirmed that both single-dose and two-dose schedules of the HPV vaccine offer comparable efficacy and protection. HPV vaccines are administered intramuscularly in the deltoid region, with 0.5 ml as the standard dose. These vaccines may cause local reactions, as well as mild systemic reactions, such as headache and myalgia, but they are transient. Implementing catch-up vaccination for adolescent girls aged between 9 and 14 years at the time of HPV vaccine introduction would be a cost-effective and sustainable strategy. This would serve as a crucial component of public health efforts to manage HPV infections and eliminate cervical cancer in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The Indian education system has produced top-class global corporate leaders in recent decades. The combination of a solid educational foundation, work ethic, adaptability, technical and analytical skills, leadership abilities, networking, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural values collectively contribute to the success of Indian students and professionals in the corporate world. On the contrary, India's overall performance in Olympic sports has been modest compared to its population and potential. The education system of any country has a significant role in sporting success. To fully harness the potential of sports in schools, addressing these challenges and creating a supportive environment that values and promotes sporting abilities alongside academic excellence is essential. This will require concerted efforts from various stakeholders, including the schooling system, educational institutions, government, sports organizations, corporate sponsors, and the community. This white paper aims to systematically organize the available knowledge and debates around India's sporting performance in the background of mainstream education culture. This paper also addresses the systemic devaluation, exclusion, disfranchisement, and stereotyping of sports and sportspersons in India. One key argument put forward in this paper is to extend absolute equivalence to Olympic sports disciplines (e.g., football) at par with general academic disciplines (e.g., mathematics) in terms of examinations and award of qualifications within the mainstream education system of India. And India must host the Olympics before 2047. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This paper highlights the difficulties and lacunae in the Mental Health Care Act 2017 that hinder its implementation and use for the care and treatment of persons with mental illness in India. Methods: An online nationwide survey, involving structured questions as well as open-ended questions, to elicit the level of implementation, experience in complying with the provisions of the Act, and level of satisfaction, of practicing psychiatrists was carried out. Responses were analyzed using appropriate statistics. Results: 600 respondents answered the online questionnaire. A majority of psychiatrists were senior practitioners with over 10 years of experience. 92.5% respondents were dissatisfied with the MHCA, wherein 73.3% wanted it amended, and 19.2% asked for repeal. Procedural issues were deterrent for 66.5% from taking medically necessary or helpful decisions for patients. Non-implementation of the Act was a major finding. Major dissatisfaction was expressed regarding judicial over reach in admission and discharge procedures, inclusion of general hospital psychiatry units in the definition of mental health establishment, non-applicability of provisions like advance directive and nominated representative in Indian setting, and that all treatment should be covered under insurance. Conclusion: The Act in its present form defies the spirit of its own objectives and is unimplementable. It needs major revisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Theory papers have been the most commonly employed method to assess learning outcomes in medical education. In these papers, both recall abilities and higher‑order cognitive functions need to be assessed giving proper weightage as per relevance. Hence it becomes necessary that valid assessment methods are employed to evaluate the required objectives/competencies. The objective of the study was to develop a method for analyzing postgraduate question papers of various specialties. Methodology: A rubric matrix was created with three broad objective criteria to assess framing and layout of the questions in each paper, analysis of different sets for same examination, and finally an overall assessment of all the papers for each subject. Results: A total of 28 specialty papers were available. A total number of papers analysed = 340. The overall mean score out of total 60 marks was 38.64 ± 4.5. It was seen that the majority (60%) of the departments have been graded as fair on analysis of the theory papers. None of the departments were graded as very good, while 7% of them were graded as good. Although a very minuscule percentage of the papers had grammatical errors and duplication of questions in the sets, only 57% of the departments had done a proper moderation and 21% had used higher domains of learning for assessment. Conclusion: Analysis of postgraduate question papers showed that the questions asked for postgraduates are more recall‑based instead of higher taxonomy of cognitive domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to determine the amount and type of microplastics in different milk samples. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Sample collection was done from branded, dairy, and directly from the cow shed and was then transferred to a conical flask. Containers were wrapped with aluminum foil to avoid contamination of the samples. A total of 100 mL of 5% sodium chloride solution was added to 200 mL of milk sample, rotated for 2 min, and was kept to undergo density separation for 15 min in a water bath. Whatman filter paper Grade I of pore size 11 µm is used for filtration. The samples were filtered using a vacuum filtration setup with a vacuum pressure of 0.5 bar pressure and stored in clean Petri dishes. These were kept in a hot air oven for drying at 60°C for 3 h and at room temperature for 24 h for complete drying of the filter paper. RESULTS: Fourier transform infrared analyses determined that the polystyrene type of microplastics was higher, showing red, blue, violet, and green colors by microscopic analysis. CONCLUSION: Three categories of milk samples (branded, dairy, and cowshed) were taken and analyzed, the results showed more microplastics in branded milk packets than in dairy and fresh cowshed milk samples which are lower than other food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study was to perform a scientometric analysis of the scientific production of dragon fruit in the food industry. A descriptive study was conducted based on the scientific production published between January 2018 and April 2024. Papers were identified through a search in the Scopus database, resulting in 266 manuscripts. Several scientometric indicators were used to analyse the scientific output, including author, affiliation, country, academic output, citations per publication, field-weighted citation impact, and h-index. Despite an annual growth rate of −14.72%, the average age of the papers was 2.91 years, with an average of 9015 citations per paper. The papers contained 14,614 references, 1792 Keywords Plus, and 907 Author's Keywords. There were 1273 authors involved, with 12 authors of single-author papers. International collaborations accounted for 23.31% of the collaborations. The papers comprised 175 articles, 2 books, 21 book chapters, 28 conference papers, 2 conference reviews, 2 errata, and 36 reviews. This study provides a comprehensive view of the scientific production in this field of study, allowing the identification of patterns and trends in the scientific literature. The results highlight the importance of dragon fruit in the food industry and underscore the need for future research in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is an inflammatory disease that results in destruction of the hair follicle and replaces it with patchy permanent scarring alopecia; after stabilizing by treatment, reactivation is common and may be insidious. During remission, various methods are available for realizing that the disease is activated or not, but neither of them is practical for patients. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the paper sign test for reactivated LPP by physician and patient. Patients and Methods: In a prospective study, during 2 years, 83 treated LPP patients have been divided into two groups of 41 and 42. Group 1 instructed for paper sign test which is to comb their hair over a white paper sheet to catch any fallen hairs, then turn the paper upside down, if all collected hair on paper completely separated, test is considered negative, if even one hair hangs onto the paper, the test is considered positive. Group 2 trained for clinical symptoms (hair shedding, scaling, itching, pain, tenderness, and burning). Results: From the first group, 13 patients had positive paper sign, and from the second group, 35 patients had clinical symptoms; after clinical examination and biopsy, 13 from Group 1 and 17 from Group 2 were confirmed to have reactivated disease. Patients in the first group who had been trained for paper sign test became aware of relapse sooner and came earlier for the evaluation of disease. Conclusion: Paper sign test is a reliable, noninvasive, and practical test for early detection of reactivated LPP by patients during remission period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Saudi Journal of Anaesthesia is the property of Wolters Kluwer India Pvt Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The most impactful research on pediatric type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains unknown. Objective: We aimed to evaluate the characteristics and impact of the 100 most-cited articles on pediatric T1D. Materials and Methods: Using a predefined bibliometric strategy, the Scopus database was searched for high-cited papers (HCPs) published from 2001 to 2020. Articles were evaluated for data on the publication year, countries, authors, journals, topics, and types. Social network analysis was performed to visualize the interaction among countries, organizations, and authors using VOSviewer software. Results: The top 100 HCPs received 390 to 4634 citations, averaging 773.5 citations per paper (CPP). The funded HCPs (n = 50) had a higher impact (CPP 791.5). The majority of HCPs (n = 83) were collaborative. Classifying by research type, 65 studies were clinical (n = 65), risk factors (n = 27), epidemiology (n = 26), pathophysiology (n = 16), treatment outcome (n = 13), genetics (n = 12), complications (n = 3), quality of life (n = 2), and prognosis (n = 1). The number of authors involved was 1,101, affiliated with 545 organizations in 27 countries; the USA (n = 64) and the UK (n = 24) were the most productive countries, whereas Australia and the UK were the most impactful. D.M. Nathan and J.M. Lawrence were the most prolific authors, while P. Raskin and J.M. Lachin were the most impactful. Conclusions: High-income countries such as the USA, UK, and Australia contribute significantly to high-impact pediatric T1D research. Funding and collaboration improve the impact of citations in publications. Less researched areas such as treatment outcomes, genetics, complications, quality of life, and prognosis should be the focus of future research on pediatric T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize healthcare delivery in India, offering solutions to address the nation's unique healthcare challenges. This position paper, presented by the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, examines the integration of AI in Indian healthcare, exploring its applications across diagnostic imaging, patient care, medical research, rehabilitation, and administrative processes. Notable implementations include AI-driven disease detection systems, telemedicine platforms, and public health surveillance tools, with successful applications in tuberculosis screening, breast cancer detection, and ophthalmological care. While these advancements show promise, significant challenges persist, related to data privacy concerns and interoperability issues, including the need for robust ethical frameworks. The paper highlights key stakeholder collaborations, including government initiatives and international partnerships, which are driving innovation in this space. Based on this analysis, we propose policy recommendations emphasizing research investment, professional training, and regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible AI adoption. Our vision advocates for an approach that balances technological advancement with accessibility and equity in healthcare delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted to investigate the relationship between kinesthesia and motor performance in young adults with generalized joint hypermobility (GJH). A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and Google Scholar were scoured to select relevant papers. Ten papers were selected for the review. The study found no significant impact of GJH on the kinesthetic domains. Several studies suggested varying impacts of GJH on motor performance, with some indicating potential benefits and others indicating possible detriments. Interestingly, the impact of GJH on motor performance was found to be influenced by other factors such as fitness, body mass index, and the use of specific assessment tools. The results suggest that GJH does not significantly impact motor performance in young adults. However, the relationship between GJH and motor performance appears to be complex and may be influenced by several other factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular food additive in all ethnic strata, but its impact on public health is questionable due to symptoms such as headaches and nausea that have been attributed to it. This study aimed to perform a scientometric analysis of the literature related to MSG and cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, covering the period from 2018 to 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional, exploratory study design was employed. A comprehensive search of the Scopus database was performed using specific search terms related to MSG and cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. The analysis process in SciVal enabled the examination and visualization of various aspects of the scientific literature. Bibliometric metrics such as Scholarly Output, h-index, Field-Weighted Citation Impact, and Citations per Publication were used to assess the relevance and impact of the research results. Results: The bibliometric analysis covered 114 documents retrieved from 96 sources, including journals and books. Although the annual growth rate was negative, the average number of citations per paper was 10.1, indicating a significant impact. Collaboration among authors was remarkable, with an average of 6.68 coauthors per paper and 12.28% international coauthorships. Several authors and academic institutions were highlighted for their contributions to the field. The thematic analysis revealed changing terminology trends, reflecting the evolution of research approaches and interests over time. Conclusion: There has been a significant impact and collaboration within the research community on the study of MSG and its association with cardiovascular or metabolic diseases. The results of these studies offer valuable insights into the dynamics and quality of research in this field. They highlight the importance of further research to address the complexities of MSG's impact on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scientometric studies play a crucial role in quantitatively assessing the impact and quantity of scholarly articles, providing a basis for policy-making and informed decision-making processes. Given the ongoing transformation within the Saudi scientific community across various domains, it is essential to establish a baseline for high-quality endodontic research. A comprehensive search in the PubMed database, using the keywords ["Saudi" OR "Saudi Arabia"] within the time frame of 2014 to 2021. The screening process involved evaluating the title and abstract of each article, with only those classified as endodontic articles included for analysis in this study. The analysis included factors such as the type of paper, the authors, the citations, and the year of publication. Featuring one or more authors affiliated with a Saudi dental institution, 70 papers were specifically categorized as endodontic papers. The most prevalent type of paper was case reports, accounting for 27 articles (28%), followed by literature reviews with 13 articles (18%). The number of authors ranged from one to ten, with a general trend of increasing publication rates over the years. In terms of citations, only four papers received more than 20 citations, while the majority of papers garnered between one and ten citations. Most articles in the field of endodontics exhibited low-level evidence. Therefore, it is recommended that the quality of research output and evidence be enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basic computer skills are essential for authors writing research papers as it has the potential to make the task easier for a researcher. This article provides a glimpse about the essential software programs for a novice author writing a research paper. These software applications help streamline the writing process, improve the quality of work, and ensure that papers are formatted correctly. It covers word processing software, grammar correction software, bibliography management software, paraphrasing tool, writing tools, and statistical software. All of the tools described are free to use. Hence, it would help researchers from resource-limited settings or busy physicians who get lesser time for research writing. We presume this review paper would help provide valuable insights and guidance for novice authors looking to write a high-quality research paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India staggers at the 59th position (out of 81 countries globally) in the quality of death and dying index. A chronic life-threatening illness is often complicated by marginalized living, out-of-pocket health expenditure, illiteracy, and poor social support, and pushes the population further into the vicious spiral of suffering. The Indian Association of Palliative Care and the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine joined hands in April 2023 to address the gap in the demand and availability of palliative care and proposed to empower Community Medicine physicians to provide primary palliative care. They put forth recommendations for education, service, and research developments in primary palliative care. In April 2023, the Indian Association of Palliative Care and the Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine joined hands to disseminate palliative care services to the community. Subsequently, a task force comprising faculties from Palliative Medicine and Community Medicine was formed. The position paper on primary palliative care jointly published by the Indian Association of Palliative Care and the Association of Family Physicians of India provided the framework for this position paper. The paper focused on education, service development, and research. The task force recommended the following: 1. Empower faculties and residents of the Department of Community Medicine, undergraduate students from medical and allied specialties posted to the department to provide primary palliative care. 2. Integrate palliative care into outpatient clinics (general OPDs in the hospital), community health centers, and home care as a part of the family adoption program. 3. Improve access to essential medications, including opioids, in urban and rural areas 4. Follow the recommendations of the National Health Policy 2017 to develop blended training programs for faculties and students. 5. Engage the community to identify patients with chronic life-threatening illnesses and allocate resources to support patients at home. 6. Collaborate to develop a protocol for regular audits and research for service improvisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The National Medical Commission (NMC) of India has introduced the Family Adoption Program (FAP) as a key initiative within the Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) framework. FAP is designed to reshape medical education by deeply embedding students within communities, providing a platform for experiential learning that enhances their understanding of healthcare challenges beyond the clinical setting. Under the program, medical students adopt families in rural or underserved areas and work with them over an extended period, addressing health needs and fostering a holistic, socially responsive approach to care. This engagement allows students to understand the multifaceted determinants of health—such as social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors—that influence well-being and disease. Through direct interaction with families, students develop a community-centred approach to healthcare delivery, fostering continuity of care and empowering communities in managing their own health. This paper explores how FAP integrates community engagement into medical education, driving both student learning and community health outcomes. It outlines the theoretical underpinnings and practical implementation strategies of FAP, offering a roadmap for medical colleges to successfully integrate this initiative into their curricula. The paper highlights best practices and innovative approaches from institutions, emphasizing the need for institutional ownership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and partnerships with local communities to ensure long-term success. Additionally, it provides insights for scaling FAP nationally, positioning it as a transformative step towards cultivating compassionate, community-oriented healthcare professionals. By fostering deeper connections between medical students and communities, FAP has the potential to improve health equity and transform health care across India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The quality of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) abstracts greatly impacts the way readers perceive interventional outcomes, influencing their scientific applicability. Recent data about the quality of periodontal RCT abstracts that have been published is lacking. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the reporting quality of abstracts in RCTs published in periodontal journals in recent years. The study is descriptive and cross-sectional, surveying the abstracts of RCTs published in the Journal of Periodontology (JOP), Journal of Clinical Periodontology (JOCP), and Journal of Periodontal Research (JOPR) between 2018 and 2022. The assessment of reporting quality was performed employing the CONSORT criteria for abstracts of RCTs. The quantitative values for each item on the CONSORT checklist for all published RCT abstracts were derived by descriptive statistical techniques, including univariate analysis. Comparisons were drawn between the journals and the different variables included in the study. The investigation identified 176 RCTs (11.7%) out of a total of 1506 articles published in these three journals over a period of four years. The primary observation of this research is that the mean quality scores were a mere 52.36 ± 9.9 for all the published periodontal RCTs abstracts. JOCP obtained the highest quality scores (54.7 ± 10.5), followed by JOPR (52.4 ± 9.9) and JOP (49.1 ± 7.9). RCT abstracts from Europe had higher reporting quality, whereas those from Africa were the lowest. The trials carried out in mixed settings showed better quality in the reporting of abstracts compared to those conducted in university, private, or governmental settings. RCTs with more than six authors and statisticians involved showed higher quality scores. These results are not indicative of a substantial improvement when compared to previous years (2015–2018). Abstracts of RCTs reported are below par in the preeminent periodontology journals. There has been no discernible progress over the years, notably in terms of blinding, the randomization description, and the disclosure of potential harms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG) in India serves as a unified admission examination for undergraduate medical courses, aiming to standardize assessment across diverse educational backgrounds. Despite its goals, NEET-UG has faced criticism over fairness, excessive reliance on coaching, and its impact on students' holistic development. The article reviews the limitations of the current NEET-UG format and proposes reforms, emphasizing the need to align the syllabus more closely with medical requirements by reducing physics and chemistry content and prioritizing biology. It suggests restructuring NEET-UG into a two-step examination to improve differentiation among candidates and reduce malpractice. Introducing a computer-based format, expanding the question pool, and adding interdisciplinary topics relevant to healthcare, such as Psychology, Nutrition, Physical Education, Cell biology, Genetics, public health and sociology, are also recommended. Additionally, the paper compares NEET-UG with global medical entrance exams, noting that broader subject assessments and critical thinking skills could enhance candidate evaluation. The Indian medical education system is the largest in the world. Given its vast capacities, it is crucial to reform the selection process to ensure that human resources in health can effectively address the pressing public health needs of India, the world's most populated country. The proposed reforms aim to create a fairer, more comprehensive selection process that minimizes stress, encourages holistic education, and better meets medical education standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nationa Medical Commission (NMC) had recently undertook the revision of Undergraduate CBME curriculum. the Authors were involved in Psychiatry curriculum revision. In this paper,authors explain the process of revision, the rationale behind the changes made and make specific suggestions for the better implementation of the revised curriculum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Information about the experience of practicing psychiatrists with the use of the Mental Health Care Act (MHCA), 2017, India, after 5 years of its promulgation has not been available. Aim: The present study was carried out to understand the experience of the practicing psychiatrists in using and complying with the MHCA 2017 and to bring out the problems and suggested reforms, if any, in various provisions of the MHCA 2017. Methods: An online survey by practicing psychiatrists of Indian Psychiatric Society on the various sections and provisions of the MHCA 17 was carried out through structured and open-ended responses. This paper presents the qualitative analysis of the open-ended responses. Results: There were 600 respondents, who gave a total of 1239 (range 116--154) responses to eight open-ended questions about various provisions of the MHCA. Qualitative analysis revealed that most respondents opined for keeping the General Hospital Psychiatry units exempted from inclusion as the mental health establishment, thus treating physical illness at par with the mental illness; a separate stand-alone law for mental illness perpetuates stigma, asked for a larger representation of psychiatrists in the State Mental Health Authority and Mental Health Review Boards. Most respondents opined that the provisions of capacity assessment, nominated representative, and advance directive are a hinderance in treatment and should be amended; treating psychiatrists and family/caregiver's consent should suffice for supported admission, just like in other disciplines of medicine; and MHCA 2017 needs major amendments/repeal to make it convenient for patient care. Any unauthorized places/centers where persons with mental illness are kept should come under regulatory control of the state mental health authorities. Conclusion The survey has highlighted several deficiencies and operational difficulties in the current Act that hinder the delivery of mental health care to patients with mental illness in the country and need amendments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex and multifaceted autoimmune disease that poses a significant diagnostic challenge for healthcare providers due to its diverse clinical manifestations, lack of specific testing, and potential to mimic other conditions. Delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of SLE can have serious consequences for patients, impacting their physical and psychological well-being. The physical consequences of delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of SLE are significant. Studies have shown that delays in diagnosis can lead to increased organ damage, poorer health outcomes, and increased morbidity and mortality. With a delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis, patients may also experience increased psychological symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and lack of trust in clinicians. The median delay from the first symptom to diagnosis in SLE is 47 months, highlighting the need for early recognition and management. Delayed diagnosis can lead to increased disease progression, which can result in irreversible organ damage and long-term complications. This paper investigates the multifaceted consequences of delayed diagnosis and misdiagnosis of SLE, encompassing both physical and psychological impacts. It delves into the underlying reasons behind diagnostic delays and offers comprehensive strategies for healthcare providers to enhance early recognition and management. Through a thorough analysis of medical literature and statistical data, this paper aims to provide physicians with actionable insights to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in SLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: A well-known method for quantitatively evaluating scholarly work is bibliometric analysis. Best-cited papers raise awareness of the influential publications and patterns in the literature on a specific subject. The aim was to conduct bibliometric analysis to determine most cited articles on vesiculobullous oral lesions. This is the first study on citation analysis with respect to vesiculobullous oral lesions. Materials and Methods: A retrospective data search was explored on December 2022 using the Scopus database. The articles were evaluated, and fundamental data for bibliometric analysis was reviewed. Standard details about the author, linked organizations, publishing year, and place of origin were noted. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square analysis. VOSviewer software was used to determine the bibliometric network analysis for co-occurrence among coauthors and commonly used keywords. Results: A total of 344 articles published from 1971 to 2022 were included in the study. A total of 6680 citations and 19.41 citations per article were observed. The journal Archives of Dermatology received the most citation. There was a significant association between the number of citations and the journal type (open access vs. non-open access) (P < 0.05). Four to five highly related clusters with the help of VOSviewer software were found during co-occurrence network analysis. Conclusions: The top 10 articles on vesiculobullous oral lesions that received the most citations were listed in detail in the present study. This will be a valuable resource for academics, clinicians, and researchers in the fields of dermatology, general pathology, oral pathology, and oral medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Taiwan Oncology Society (TOS) and the Taiwan Society of Pathology (TSP) have collaborated to present a joint position paper on the molecular tumor boards (MTBs) within the medical institutions of Taiwan. Materials and Methods: To raise awareness of MTBs among health-care professionals, policymakers, and the public, a total of 20 experts from TOS and TSP formulated a joint consensus statement through a voting process. Results: The joint statement proposes key recommendations: (1) MTB discussions encompass diverse molecular analyses including next-generation sequencing (NGS), RNA sequencing, whole-exon sequencing, and whole-genomic sequencing addressing relevant genomic changes, tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability, and specific biomarkers for certain cancers. (2) MTB meetings should involve multidisciplinary participants who receive regular updates on NGS-related clinical trials. (3) Prioritize discussing cases with unique clinical needs, gene alterations lacking treatments, untreatable neoplasms, or oncogenes unresponsive to targeted therapies. (4) Base MTB discussions on comprehensive patient data, including genetics, pathology, timing of specimen collection, and NGS outcomes. (5) MTBs offer treatment recommendations: standard therapies, off-label use, clinical trials, genetic counseling, and multidisciplinary reviews. (6) MTB effectiveness can be gauged by member composition, case reviews, treatment suggestions, and patient outcomes. Encourage government incentives for MTB engagement. Conclusion: The primary aim of this initiative is to promote the advancement of precision oncology in Taiwan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There have been several papers published about pemphigus. Bibliometric analysis is useful in determining the most significant research in a certain topic. By bibliometric research, we were able to determine the 100 most frequently reference articles in pemphigus. Aims and Objective: Using bibliometric tools to find and evaluate the top 100 most reference papers in pemphigus. Materials and Methods: On 19 February 2023, the Web of Science database was utilized to launch a title-specific search. Publications were listed in degrading order on the basis of their total citations. We examined the top 100 most reference pemphigus publications. Results: The years of publication varied from 1971 to 2020, with the 1990s being the most active. According to diverse study objectives, the 100 publications were separated into clinical aspects and diagnosis (20%), pathophysiology (52%), therapy (13%), epidemiology (8%), related disorders (1%) and others (6%). The 100 papers were published in 37 different publications. The top 100 reference articles included 54 first authors of 11 nations, most of whom came from North America and Europe. Stanley, J R, from Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, was the principal author. Conclusions: A thorough bibliometric research of the top 100 publications in pemphigus was provided by the research, which may be useful for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis and scientometric evaluation of the top 100 most cited publications in the field of implant prosthodontics, authored by individuals affiliated with nations of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Materials and Methods: In October 2023, the 100 most cited articles were gathered from the Web of Science database using the bibliometric research technique. The analysis was conducted on bibliometric indicators, including the distribution of articles over time, authorship, design of study, field of study, nature of research, contribution from various countries in MENA, international research collaboration, and most frequently used keywords by authors. Chi-square and one-way analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis. VOSviewer software was used to analyze the bibliometric network for co-occurrence among countries, coauthors, and common keywords. Results: The results revealed that the top 100 most cited articles from MENA countries on the topic of implant prosthodontics, published between 1995 and 2020, had received an average of 73.31 citations each. About one-third of the papers were published in the top 4 journals. The journal with the most published articles was Clinical Oral Implant Research, followed by the International Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Implants , the International Journal of Prosthodontics , and the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Saudi Arabia had the distinction of producing the greatest number of highly cited papers. The co-occurrence network analysis using VOSviewer software identified 10–15 related clusters. Research studies with multiple authors received significantly more citations (P < 0.05). Significant relationships were observed between the number of citations and journal type (open access vs. non-open access; P < 0.05), and also articles published in dental journals received the most citations and were statistically significant (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Over the last decade, there has been a significant surge in research related to implant prosthodontics. Among the countries in the MENA region, Saudi Arabia has distinguished itself by leading in terms of overall research output. This resource would benefit academicians, clinicians, and researchers in prosthodontics, oral surgery, and periodontic specialties of dentistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organisations working on conservation and community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) projects with communities have sometimes damaged the wellbeing of those communities. The social and political dynamics between organisations funding or implementing projects and the communities in which they work might be a factor causing this damage. This review paper explores the literature for evidence of and methods for evaluating impacts on community wellbeing from social relations in conservation and natural resource management projects. We found 101 papers addressing social connections in the human wellbeing-conservation nexus, acknowledging the damage done by colonising project relations and detailing proposals for or examples of more equitable relationality, and also evaluations of social equity in conservation/CBNRM work. However, we found few explicit evaluations of how the social, economic, and political relations of projects impact the wellbeing of participating communities. We call on researchers to address this gap, especially those working in evaluating project outcomes. To advance this agenda, we present literature that sheds light on what more equitable project relations look like, and how project relationality might be evaluated. We finish with ideas for how organisations can diagnose internal relationality problems likely to affect project outcomes, and how to transform those. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the thematic evolution and scientific productivity of the relationship between deep brain stimulation (DBS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Materials and methods: A descriptive study using a scientometric approach was conducted using the Scopus database between 2019 and July 2024. Data were exported to the SciVal bibliometric analysis tool, and bibliometric indicators, such as number of publications per country/region, citations per publication, and h -index, were used. Results: A total of 150 publications were obtained, mostly of high quality (Q1) and coming from the USA and China. Lozano was the most productive author, and the University of Toronto in Canada had the highest number of publications. The journal with the highest impact was Frontiers in Neuroscience with 21.3 citations/paper, and most authors only published one article. Conclusions: The bibliometric study revealed decreasing research trends but mostly highlighted large international collaborations, especially in high-impact journals. The findings can serve as a basis for future research and policies evaluating the impact of DBS in the management of patients with AD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many possibilities for noise exposure in industrial workplaces, including sectors that extensively use heavy machinery in processing each product. Various studies indicate a causal relationship between noise exposure and auditory/nonauditory effects among workers. Noise exposure poses risks to health and workers' hearing acuity and safety. This review paper aims to identify and summarize occupational noise exposure by examining the auditory and nonauditory effects among mill workers. The mills included in the study are palm oil, lumber, textiles, rice, sugarcane, flour, paper, and sawmills. A two-step methodology was used to achieve the aims of this narrative review. The literature search was conducted by gathering PubMed and Google Scholar papers, focusing on occupational noise in different occupational mill environments. Grey's literature was conducted by screening the worldwide national standard for the laws, guidelines, and other related information based on this topic. A total of 22 articles published have been included. The content of each publication was subsequently summarized. Most of the machine areas within the mills emitted high level of noise. The auditory effects of occupational noise exposure among mill workers were noise-induced hearing loss and hearing impairment. Hypertension, stress, communication disturbance, cardiovascular disease, and headache were the nonauditory effects experienced by workers. The recommendations provided in this review for mitigating noise exposure are derived from the hierarchy of control. Overall, most mill workers are exposed to a high noise level exceeding the standard noise exposure limit. Preventive actions should be taken to address and reduce work-related injuries among mill workers worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper conducts the bibliometric analysis of 525 articles published in the journal 'Advances in Human Biology' from 2013 to 2024. The data were sourced from the Web of Science database. The study focuses on various aspects of the journals such as the growth of papers year-wise, total citations, citation per article, country-wise global research publications, most prolific authors, distribution of highly cited documents and co-occurrence of author's keywords have also been analysed. The analysis shows that the majority 333 (63.42%) of the contributors were Indians. Data visualisation in the study was conducted utilising the VOS viewer and RStudio tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Background: Physiotherapists are health professionals who enhance mobility and quality of life (QoL) through clinical reasoning and the application of evaluation and treatment strategies. Their role is crucial in promoting health, preventing injury, and maintaining function. Aim: This paper aims to (1) share early experiences and learnings from integrating physiotherapy in rural primary health care, (2) discuss the scope and role of physiotherapists in the primary care team, (3) list the competencies of physiotherapists in rural primary care settings, and (4) advocate for a re-imagined role of physiotherapists as multi-skilled "primary care physiotherapists." Setting and Method: Using a selection of case stories from rural primary health care settings, the paper provides insights into the integration and impact of physiotherapy within these communities. Results: The integration of physiotherapy in rural primary health care has demonstrated significant benefits in promoting comprehensive primary health care. The case stories highlight the expanded scope and essential competencies of physiotherapists as vital members of the primary care team. Conclusion: This paper emphasizes the critical role physiotherapy plays in primary health care and calls for broader recognition and support for physiotherapists. It underscores the need for a re-imagined perspective of physiotherapists in rural settings, advocating for their role as multi-skilled primary care professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has been known for its high propensity of metastasis to unusual locations, and jaw bones (JBs) are one among those sites. The literature has reported several studies analyzing metastatic tumors to the oral region, but very little research work has been published to date to analyze solely JB metastasis (JBM) via RCC. The goal of this study was to examine the published cases of metastasis to JBs from RCC as the sole primary source till date. An electronic search of the published literature was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines without publication year limitation in PubMed or MEDLINE, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Embase, and Research Gate Databases, using MeSH keywords, such as ('Renal cancer', OR 'Renal carcinoma' OR 'Renal cell cancer' OR 'Renal cell carcinoma'), AND ('Metastasis' OR 'Metastases') And ('Jaw' OR 'Maxilla' OR 'Mandible') And ('Temporomandibular joint' OR 'Condyle' OR ' Ramus'). We also searched all related journals manually. The reference list of all articles was also checked. Our research revealed a total of 56 relevant papers with 66 patients. The papers included were from 1939 to 2022. The mandible was the most predominant jaw affected than the maxilla. 19.7% of patients died with a mean survival time of 8.5 months. From the current research, it can be concluded that metastasis to JBs from RCC is a rare occurrence. A careful evaluation of these cases is needed to raise awareness of these lesions and gain a better understanding of their characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]