bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Results With Ozaki Valved Conduit—A Simple Solution for Patients Needing Right Ventricle to Pulmonary Artery Conduit in a Low-Resource Setting
Authors: Raju Vijayakumar , Baird Christopher W. , Srinivasan Naveen , Sasikumar Divya Kadavanoor , Moorthy Rajalakshmi , Jothinath Koushik , Gangadharan Sreja , Swamy Kalyanasundaram Muthu , Raghavan Aparna Vijaya , Krishna Mani Ram , Nath Pavithra Ram
Published: September 2024

Background

The repair of certain types of complex congenital cardiac defects may require a right ventricle-pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduit. Using the Ozaki Aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo)technique, a valved RV-PA conduit was constructed with an Ozaki valve inside a Dacron graft. This study aims to evaluate the short-term outcome of the Ozaki valved RV-PA conduit.

Material/Method

A total of 22 patients received the Ozaki valved RV-PA conduit from November 2019 until December 2023. The median age was 12 years (interquartile range [IQR], 5.5-21), median body weight was 35 kg (IQR, 15.8-48.5). The conduit was used in 16 patients (72.7%) under 18 years of age. Indications for conduit placement included: anatomic repair of corrected transposition of the great arteries, ventricular septal defect/pulmonary stenosis, conduit replacement, pulmonary atresia with associated anomalies, pulmonary artery aneurysm with dysplastic pulmonary valve, tetralogy of Fallot with coronary artery crossing the right ventricular outflow tract, bioprosthetic pulmonary valve regurgitation, and rheumatic heart disease. Native pericardium was used for the Ozaki valve in 12 patients and bovine pericardium for 10 patients. Conduit sizes ranged from 18 mm to 30 mm.

Result

The median intensive care unit stay was 4 (IQR, 2-6) days and the median hospital stay was 9 (IQR, 5.5-13.5) days. There were two perioperative mortalities (9.1%) both unrelated to the conduit. The median follow-up was 12.3 (IQR, 4.43-21.2) months. There was no infective endocarditis of the conduit. The median peak gradient across the conduit was 22 mm Hg (range 0-44 mm), and all were competent with trivial regurgitation on follow up.

Conclusion

Creation of an Ozaki valved conduit is an attractive option due to low cost, reproducibility, and excellent hemodynamics. Longer-term studies are needed to confirm the durability.
Knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention and early detection of chronic kidney disease and associated factors in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gebreyohannes Lidiya Tekle , Wake Addisu Dabi , Abdulle Mohammed Usman
Published: September 2024

Background:

Early detection of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is important because it enables clinicians to initiate effective treatment, preventing loss of kidney function, and delaying or avoiding progression to kidney failure. This study was aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practices towards prevention and early detection of CKD and associated factors.

Methods:

Institution based cross-sectional survey was done at Adama Hospital Medical College, Ethiopia, between November 24/2021 and December 24/2021 among 190 hypertensive patients. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.2.0.0 and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.

Result:

The level of good knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice was 40.5%, 53.7%, and 47.4%, respectively. Government employed (AOR = 3.30, 95%CI: 1.38, 7.90), having an average monthly income of ≥3000 ETB (61.43 US dollars) (AOR = 2.95, 95%CI: 1.31, 6.66), and having a duration of ≥4 years since diagnosis of hypertension (AOR = 2.37, 95%CI: 1.11, 5.06) were factors significantly associated with good knowledge. Government employed (AOR = 2.56, 95%CI: 1.12, 5.87), having duration of hypertension ≥4 years since diagnosis (AOR = 2.16, 95%CI: 1.07, 4.36) were factors significantly associated with positive attitude. Government employed (AOR = 4.16, 95%CI: 1.38, 12.58), having an average monthly income of ≥3000 ETB (61.43 US dollars) (AOR = 6.74, 95%CI: 2.93, 15.52), having good knowledge towards prevention and early detection of CKD (AOR = 2.57, 95%CI: 1.14, 5.80) were significantly associated with good practice.

Conclusions:

The level of good knowledge, positive attitude, and good practice towards was low. Educational programs on these issues are required to minimize the burdens.
Morphea-like tattoo reaction in a patient with systemic sclerosis: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Hobayan Catherine Grace P , Thai Jasmine , Korman Abraham M , Lin Judith
Published: September 2024

Background:

Morphea-like tattoo reactions are rare phenomena, with few cases reported in the literature. We present a case of a morphea-like tattoo reaction and a literature review of such reactions for comparison.

Case Description:

A 38-year-old woman with known history of systemic sclerosis presented with abnormal healing and skin thickening over a red tattoo. Histopathological examination revealed sclerosing dermatitis, consistent with morphea-like tattoo reaction. Treatment included topical clobetasol and oral mycophenolate mofetil.

Methods:

A literature search of PubMed and EMBASE was performed in August 2023 for known morphea-like tattoo reactions. No time or language filters were applied.

Results:

A total of six articles were included. Case reports of morphea-like tattoo reactions in patients with no significant past medical history comprise five articles. One review article notes that red tattoo ink with and without cinnabar is associated with adverse skin reactions.

Conclusions:

Morphea-like tattoo reactions can be triggered by ingredients of tattoo ink, possibly due to local hypersensitivity or the Koebner phenomenon. We encourage high clinical suspicion for morphea-like tattoo reactions when a patient with known history of connective tissue disease presents with skin changes around a tattoo.
Intermittent versus continuous intravenous epoprostenol for the treatment of digital ischemia
Authors: Alsomairy Sarah , Pogue Kristen T , Durant Karin M , Brancaccio Adamo
Published: September 2024

Digital ischemia can be a painful complication of Raynaud’s phenomenon or systemic sclerosis, which is caused by narrowing of blood vessels in the toes and hands. Epoprostenol is a potent vasodilator that may be used to treat digital ischemia in this patient population. Our institution provides epoprostenol infusion using two different administration techniques: a 30-h continuous infusion option and a 5-day intermittent 6-h infusion. In this retrospective chart review, we compared two administration techniques of intravenous epoprostenol administered to patients with digital ischemia. The primary outcome was to compare the efficacy of intravenous epoprostenol 30-h continuous infusion versus 5-day intermittent infusion, as defined by the presence of treatment failure. Between June 2019 and June 2020, 72 adult patient encounters met the inclusion criteria (intermittent: n = 20; continuous: n = 52). The primary outcome did not achieve a statistically significant difference between the two groups: intermittent 20% versus continuous 33.3% p = 0.390, odds ratio = 0.57 (95% confidence interval = 0.17–1.90). Adverse reactions were documented in 28% of patients across both treatment groups, and there was no difference detected when treatment groups were compared (25% vs 28.8%). Patients who received the 5-day infusion experienced a significantly longer average length of stay, with a mean of 8.9 days versus 3 days for those treated with the continuous 30-h infusion ( p < 0.05; 95% confidence interval = 2.15–9.47). This study determined that the efficacy and safety profiles of the two administration techniques may not be comparable. Each protocol offers advantages over the other, and selection should be guided by patient history and risk factors to optimize management.
Correlation of Doppler Indices Within the Umbilical Vein Compared With Gestational Age and Fetal Weight in a Normal Pregnancy
Authors: Jelany Saira , Farooq Syed Muhammad Yousaf , Rauf Fizza , Gilani Syed Amir , khawaja Abdullah Fazal , Jallad Lina Khaled
Published: September 2024

Objective:

Given the sophistication of ultrasonography, it is possible to explore and better comprehend the link between gestational age (GA), fetal weight (FW), and the diameter of the umbilical vein (UV). Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether a correlation exists between the Doppler indices, within the UV, compared with GA and FW, in a normal pregnancy.

Materials and Methods:

The design of this work was a cross-sectional analytical study. The sample size was calculated to include a sample size of 61, for statistical significance. A convenient sampling technique was used to collect the data. The inclusion criteria were to recruit pregnant women between the ages of 18 and 45 years, in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. In this cohort, the exclusion criteria were to be no co-existing maternal medical conditions chronic hypertension, gestational diabetes, cardiovascular problems, infections, hypercoagulability, and endocrine disorders.

Results:

A total of 61 pregnant women participated in this study, with a mean age of 25.21 ± 2.79 years. The mean GA was 32.4 ± 6.5 weeks. GA demonstrated a strong positive correlation with UV diameter ( r = .772, p < .001), UV velocity ( r = .687, p < .001), and UV volume ( r = .732, p < .001). UV diameter showed a strong positive correlation with UV velocity ( r = .593, p < .001) and an even stronger positive correlation with UV volume ( r = .928, p < .001). UV velocity showed a strong positive correlation with UV volume ( r = .754, p < .001). These findings may suggest that as GA increases, there are corresponding increases in UV diameter, velocity, and volume.

Conclusion:

In this cohort, the data collected demonstrated significant correlations between UV Doppler indices, GA, and FW, in normal pregnancies.
Surviving a classic heat stroke/hyperthermia > 42 °C – a case report
Authors: Schmidt Sonja Verena , Hinzmann Jannik , Stammler Anna , Wilhelms zu Bickern Paula , Macedo Santos Elisabete , Lehnhardt Marcus , Wallner Christoph
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Classic heat stroke is a severe trauma which can lead to multi-organ dysfunctions and is associated with a high mortality.

Case presentation

In this case report we present a 73-year-old patient with a classic heat stroke. His initial core body temperature was over 42 °C and he had a GCS of 3. Due to severe burn injuries the patient was transferred to a specialized burn center. The patient developed different organ failures and showed a prolonged course on the intensive care unit. Although the patient demonstrated different impaired organ systems, he recovered completely after receiving painstaking supportive therapy.

Conclusions

This is a rare case of a patient who fully recovered after a heat stroke with a temperature over 42 °C and severe sequelae.
Genomic diversity and population structure of Carniolan honey bee in its native habitat
Authors: Lukic Boris , Raguz Nikola , Kovačić Marin , Curik Ino , Obšteter Jana , Prešern Janez , Bubnič Jernej , Lužaić Ras , Pihler Ivan , Mirjanić Goran , Pietropaoli Marco , Puškadija Zlatko
Published: September 2024

Background

Research into the genetic diversity of honey bee (Apis melliferaL.) populations has become increasingly significant in recent decades, primarily due to population declines attributed to human activities and climate change. As a species of great importance, breeding programs that leverage understanding of genomic diversity could offer solutions to mitigate these challenges. The objective of this study was to examine the genomic diversity and population structure of Carniolan honey bees (Apis mellifera carnica) using the Illumina SNP chip on a large honey bee sample collected from Central and South-Eastern European countries. The study also aims to offer recommendations for future breeding programs.

Results

Our analysis involved Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC), heterozygosity, admixture analysis, fixation indices (FST), Neighbour-Joining tree, gene flow and Isolation-by-distance analysis. DAPC indicated distinct separation between the Carniolan and Italian honey bee (Apis mellifera ligustica) populations, whereas the admixture analysis revealed varying levels of gene flow and genetic admixture within the Carniolan honey bee populations, demonstrating closer relationships between specific geographic regions (confirmed by Isolation-by-distance analysis). Furthermore, the research of heterozygosity, genomic inbreeding, pairwise FST values, and Neighbour-Joining tree provided insights into the patterns of genetic differentiation and similarity among the populations of Carniolan honey bee within its natural habitat. We have observed genetic homogeneity of the Carniolan honey bee population when considered in a broader genetic/geographical context. However, the Carniolan honey bee has sufficient genetic diversity in its geographical home range that needs to be carefully monitored and maintained.

Conclusions

This study provides important insights into the genetic composition, differentiation, and relationships among Carniolan honey bee populations in Central and South-Eastern European countries. The findings are crucial for conservation efforts, breeding programs, and sustainable beekeeping practices. They emphasise the importance of considering genetic factors and population structure in the breeding and management of honey bees. By understanding these genetic relationships, we can develop strategies to preserve genetic diversity, improve breeding outcomes, and ensure the resilience of honey bee populations in the face of environmental changes and challenges. This knowledge can also inform policy makers and stakeholders on best practices to maintain healthy bee populations, which are vital for ecosystem services and agricultural productivity.
Mirror, mirror on my screen: Focus on self-presentation on social media is associated with perfectionism and disordered eating among adolescents. Results from the “LifeOnSoMe”-study
Authors: Danielsen Hilde Einarsdatter , Finserås Turi Reiten , Andersen Amanda Iselin Olesen , Hjetland Gunnhild Johnsen , Woodfin Vivian , Skogen Jens Christoffer
Published: September 2024

Background

Social media use, perfectionism, and disordered eating have all increased over the last decades. Some studies indicate that there is a relationship between self-presentation behaviors and being exposed to others’ self-presentation on social media, and disordered eating. Studies also show that the relationship between focus on self-presentation and highly visual social media is stronger than for non-visual social media, hence facilitating upward social comparison. Nevertheless, no previous studies have investigated the link between adolescents’ focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media, and perfectionism and disordered eating, which is the aim of the present study.

Method

The present study is based on a cross-sectional survey from the “LifeOnSoMe”-study (N = 3424), conducted in 2020 and 2021. Respondents were high school students (mean age 17.3 years, 56% females) in Bergen, Norway. Multiple regression analysis was performed, where SPAUSCIS, a measure of self-presentation and upward social comparison, was the independent variable. Perfectionism and disordered eating were dependent variables. Self-reported age, gender, and subjective socioeconomic status were used as covariates, as well as frequency and duration of social media use. Regression models were performed to compare proportions across the median split of SPAUSCIS.

Results

The multiple regression analysis showed that increased focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media were positively associated with both perfectionism (standardized coefficient 0.28) and disordered eating. A stronger association for girls than boys was found for disordered eating (standardized coefficient 0.39 for girls and 0.29 for boys). There was no gender moderation for perfectionism.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that focus on self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media is associated with perfectionism and disordered eating. We recommend promoting a healthy use of social media. This could be established by increasing adolescents’ ability to reflect on and think critically about self-presentation and upward social comparison on social media.
Novel approach to exploring protease activity and targets in HIV-associated obstructive lung disease using combined proteomic-peptidomic analysis
Authors: Samorodnitsky Sarah , Kruk Monica , Lock Eric F. , Kunisaki Ken M. , Morris Alison , Leung Janice M. , Weise Danielle , Mehta Subina , Parker Laurie L. , Jagtap Pratik D. , Griffin Timothy J. , Wendt Chris H.
Published: September 2024

Background

Obstructive lung disease (OLD) is increasingly prevalent among persons living with HIV (PLWH). However, the role of proteases in HIV-associated OLD remains unclear.

Methods

We combined proteomics and peptidomics to comprehensively characterize protease activities. We combined mass spectrometry (MS) analysis on bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) peptides and proteins from PLWH with OLD (n = 25) and without OLD (n = 26) with a targeted Somascan aptamer-based proteomic approach to quantify individual proteases and assess their correlation with lung function. Endogenous peptidomics mapped peptides to native proteins to identify substrates of protease activity. Using the MEROPS database, we identified candidate proteases linked to peptide generation based on binding site affinities which were assessed via z-scores. We used t-tests to compare average forced expiratory volume in 1 s per predicted value (FEV1pp) between samples with and without detection of each cleaved protein and adjusted for multiple comparisons by controlling the false discovery rate (FDR).

Findings

We identified 101 proteases, of which 95 had functional network associations and 22 correlated with FEV1pp. These included cathepsins, metalloproteinases (MMP), caspases and neutrophil elastase. We discovered 31 proteins subject to proteolytic cleavage that associate with FEV1pp, with the top pathways involved in small ubiquitin-like modifier mediated modification (SUMOylation). Proteases linked to protein cleavage included neutrophil elastase, granzyme, and cathepsin D.

Interpretations

In HIV-associated OLD, a significant number of proteases are up-regulated, many of which are involved in protein degradation. These proteases degrade proteins involved in cell cycle and protein stability, thereby disrupting critical biological functions.
Initiation and/or re-initiation of drug use among people who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada from 2021 to 2022: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Sergeant Anjali , Bach Paxton , Lei Jingxin , DeBeck Kora , Milloy M-J , Hayashi Kanna
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Widespread health service disruptions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic coincided with a dramatic increase in overdose deaths among people who use drugs (PWUD) in Vancouver, Canada. Those with a history of injection drug use are known to be at heightened risk of substance-associated harms. Drug use patterns and associated sociodemographic and health care utilization trends have been understudied in this population since the pandemic onset. We sought to understand patterns of drug use initiation and/or re-initiation among people with a history of injection drug use (IVDU).

Methods

Data were obtained from three harmonized prospective cohort studies of PWUD in Vancouver. Participants with a lifetime history of IVDU who responded to a survey between June 2021 and May 2022 were included. The primary outcome variable was a composite of substance use initiation and re-initiation over the study period, labelled as drug (re)-initiation. A multivariable generalized linear mixed-effects model was used to examine factors associated with self-reported (re)-initiation of substance use over the past six months.

Results

Among 1061 participants, the median age was 47 years at baseline and 589 (55.5%) identified as men. In total, 183 (17.2%) participants reported initiating and/or re-initiating a drug, with 44 (4.1%) reporting new drug initiation and 148 (14.0%) reporting drug re-initiation (9 participants responded ‘yes’ to both). Overall, unregulated stimulants (e.g., crystal methamphetamine and cocaine) were the most common drug class (re-)initiated (n = 101; 55.2%), followed by opioids (n = 74; 40.4%) and psychedelics (n = 36; 19.7%). In the multivariable analysis, (re-)initiation of drug use was independently associated with recent IVDU (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02, 6.76), incarceration (AOR 3.36, CI 1.12, 10.14) and inability to access addiction treatment (AOR 4.91, 95% CI 1.22, 19.75).

Conclusions

In an era impacted by the intersecting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the overdose crisis, nearly one in five PWUD with a history of IVDU began using a new drug and/or re-started use of a previous drug. Those who reported drug (re-)initiation exhibited riskier substance use behaviours and reported difficulty accessing treatment services. Our findings underscore the need to provide additional resources to support this high-risk population.
Lifetime trauma, mental well-being, alcohol and help-seeking; the phenomenological experience of veterans residing in Northern Ireland
Authors: Hitch Catherine , Toner Paul , Champion Hannah , Armour Cherie
Published: September 2024

Background

Veteran residents in Northern Ireland (NI) are an under-researched population. Little is known about their experiences of trauma and mental health management. The overall mental well-being of veterans living in NI may be poorer than other veteran populations, due to the challenges presented by the unique landscape. Understanding their experiences is crucial for providing appropriate, targeted support.

Method

Six male veterans, who had received a mental health diagnosis, living in NI and all aged > 40 years participated. Semi-structured interviews, using open-ended questions, were conducted over the telephone. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to explore their experiences.

Results

Two experiential themes were identified each containing three experiential statements. Statements for ‘an extreme lack of’ included: lack of mental health literacy/awareness; lack of expectations of official support; lack of a sense of perceived appreciation. Statements for ‘an extreme abundance of’ included: exacerbated exposure to a range of extreme environments; high levels of ruled-based living; high levels of engaging with informal/local level support.

Conclusions

Several experiential statements aligned with existing literature, including having poor mental health literacy and problem recognition, and heavily utilising social support versus formal help-seeking. Some novel findings included bouncing between extreme positive and negative environments which could be as detrimental to mental health as experiencing conflict trauma. Heavy alcohol use was just another rule soldiers followed. Positive help-seeking experiences failed to improve poor opinions of support organisations. Finally, poor self-perceptions connected to military status are pertinent in NI, which seems to fuel self-marginalisation and distrust. A combination of factors likely contributes to many veterans living in NI having poorer mental well-being. Novel findings would benefit from further exploration as understanding how NI veterans interpret their experiences is key to providing adequate healthcare.
The utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT for predicting the pathological response and prognosis to neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in resectable non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Guo Rui , Yan Wanpu , Wang Fei , Su Hua , Meng Xiangxi , Xie Qing , Zhao Wei , Yang Zhi , Li Nan
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate the potential utility of 18F-FDG PET/CT to assess response to neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in patients with resectable NSCLC, and the ability to screen patients who may benefit from neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy.

Methods

Fifty one resectable NSCLC (stage IA–IIIB) patients were analyzed, who received two-three cycles neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy.18F-FDG PET/CT was carried out at baseline(scan-1) and prior to radical resection(scan-2). SULmax, SULpeak, MTV, TLG, T/N ratio, ΔSULmax%,ΔSULpeak%, ΔMTV%, ΔTLG%,ΔT/N ratio% were calculated. 18F-FDG PET/CT responses were classified using PERCIST. We then compared the RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST criteria for response assessment.With surgical pathology of primary lesions as the gold standard, the correlation between metabolic parameters of 18F-FDG PET/CT and major pathologic response (MPR) was analyzed. All metabolic parameters were compared to treatment response and correlated to PFS and OS.

Results

In total of fifty one patients, MPR was achieved in 25(49%, 25/51) patients after neoadjuvant therapy. The metabolic parameters of Scan-1 were not correlated with MPR.The degree of pathological regression was negatively correlated with SULmax, SULpeak, MTV, TLG, T/N ratio of scan-2, and the percentage changes of the ΔSULmax%, ΔSULpeak%, ΔMTV%,ΔTLG%,ΔT/N ratio% after neoadjuvant therapy (p < 0.05). According to PERCIST, 36 patients (70.6%, 36/51) showed PMR, 12 patients(23.5%, 12/51) had stable metabolic disease(SMD), and 3 patients(5.9%, 3/51) had progressive metabolic disease (PMD). ROC indicated that all of scan-2 metabolic parameters and the percentage changes of metabolic parameters had ability to predict MPR and non-MPR, SULmax and T/N ratio of scan-2 had the best differentiation ability.The accuracy of RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST criteria were no statistical significance(p = 0.91). On univariate analysis, ΔMTV% has the highest correlation with PFS.

Conclusions

Metabolic response by 18F-FDG PET/CT can predict MPR to neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy in resectable NSCLC. ΔMTV% was significantly correlated with PFS.
A parasitic leiomyoma of the sigmoid mesentery with schwannoma-like image findings
Authors: Fujiwara Koki , Takagi Chisato , Sato Michio , Tokuda Toshiki , Tomita Masato , Sugita Atsunori , Furuya Kohei , Jinushi Makoto , Mitsuya Toshiyuki , Ando Nobutoshi
Published: September 2024

Background

Parasitic leiomyoma (PL) consists of uterine fibroids separate from the uterus that grow in extrauterine tissues such as the peritoneum and mesenterium. The diagnosis of PL requires a thorough medical history of laparoscopic myomectomies using a morcellator and the identification of typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings as uterine fibroids. Imaging diagnosis of PL is occasionally difficult when PL degenerates in various ways, owing to atypical findings on computed tomography (CT) and MRI.

Case presentation

A 29-year-old woman with a history of laparoscopic myomectomy visited a local hospital with lower abdominal pain. A mesenteric tumor on the sigmoid mesentery was suspected on MRI, and she was referred to our hospital. CT scan showed strong early contrast uptake in the center of the tumor, and MRI T2-weighted images showed high signals at the tumor margins and low signals in the center, suggesting a schwannoma. PL was also part of the differential diagnosis because of the patient’s history of laparoscopic myomectomy. With a preoperative diagnosis of a sigmoid colon mesenteric tumor undeniably of malignant origin, laparoscopic resection of the sigmoid mesenteric tumor was performed. Histopathological examination revealed it to be a PL.

Conclusions

We report a case of PL of the sigmoid mesentery with schwannoma-like findings on imaging that was treated laparoscopically. PL is sometimes difficult to distinguish from schwannomas because of the variety of imaging findings, such as uterine fibroids. PL should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mesenteric tumors following laparoscopic myomectomies, even if it does not show typical imaging findings, such as uterine fibroids.
Changes in mandibular width and frontal-lower facial profile after orthognathic surgery using sagittal split ramus osteotomy with removal of internal bone interference in patients with class III skeletal malocclusion
Authors: Song In Jae , Kang Min Seong , Lee Jung Han , Bae Eun Yeong , Kim Bok Joo , Kim Chul Hoon , Kim Jung Han
Published: September 2024

Background

The purpose of this study is to analyze changes in mandibular width and frontal view ramus inclination using cone beam CT in patients with skeletal class III malocclusion who underwent BSSRO, with the removal of bone interference between segments.

Methods

For all 20 subjects, cone-beam CT imaging was performed prior to surgery (T1), immediately post-surgery (T2), and 6 months after surgery (T3). Reorientation was performed using R2GATE software (MegaGen, Seoul, Korea). The gonion and antegonial notch were used as reference points in the sagittal view, and the most lateral point of the condyle head was used as the reference point in the frontal view. All measurements were recorded in the frontal view.

Results

Inter-gonial width decreased by 2.64 mm at T3-T2 (P < .001) and by 2.58 mm at T3-T1 (P < .05). Inter-antegonial width decreased by 1.75 mm at T3-T2 (P < .05) and by 3.5 mm at T3-T1 (P < .001). In the frontal view, the right ramus inclination based on the gonion increased by 2.07° at T3-T1 (P < .05). The left ramus inclination based on gonion increased by 2.45° at T2-T1 (P < .05) and by 3.94° at T3-T1 (P < .001). The right ramus inclination based on antegonial notch increased by 2.35° at T2-T1 (P < .05) and by 3.04° at T3-T1 (P < .01). The left ramus inclination based on antegonial notch increased by 2.73° at T2-T1 (P < .001) and by 3.18° at T3-T1 (P < .001).

Conclusions

During bilateral sagittal split osteotomy, removing bone interference between the proximal and distal segments results in a reduction of postoperative mandibular width and an increase in frontal view ramus inclination.
The role of screening of patients proved to have gastroesophageal reflux disease by upper gastrointestinal endoscope for early detection of interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Elsharkawy Samar Hassan , Osman Ahmed Mohamed , Hamed Asmaa Rashad Abdou , Ghaly Ragy Mamdouh
Published: September 2024

Background

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a frequent digestive illness in North America, causing symptoms and complications. It affects 18.1–27.28% of people and is associated with decreased quality of life. Treatment improves quality of life, but treatment costs are higher. The study aims to assess the role of screening of patients proven to have GERD by upper gastrointestinal endoscope for early detection of interstitial lung diseases.

Subjects and methods

This research was cross-sectional research. The study will be conducted at the Chest Diseases Department of Ain Shams University hospitals. This prospective cross-sectional research will be performed on 90 randomly selected cases diagnosed with GERD by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. For 1 year.

Result

The findings of chest HRCT for enrolled patients are 15 patients (16.7%) showed positive CT findings suggestive of interstitial lung disease, whereas 75 patients (83.3%) had normal CT scans. The most common CT finding was atelectasis reported in nine patients (10%). a statistically significant correlation between age and fibrosis and reticular infiltration, female gender, and reticular infiltration. no statistically significant association between CT findings and each of the chest symptoms and GERD symptoms.

Conclusion

CT chest screen of patients diagnosed with GERD by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy plays a favorable role in the early detection of ILD to help in early management and treatment them. In patients diagnosed with GERD by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, we revealed that: reticular infiltration is more prevalent in female gender. Reticular infiltration and fibrosis increase with older age. Reticular infiltration and atelectasis increase in patients who have a hiatus hernia. Cough, dyspnea, and wheezes increase in older age.
Bayesian seismic 4D inversion for lithology and fluid prediction
Authors: Kjønsberg Heidi , Hauge Ragnar , Nilsen Carl-Inge Colombo , Ndingwan Abel Onana , Kolbjørnsen Odd
Published: September 2024

Seismic data acquired at different times over the same area can provide insight into changes in an oil/gas reservoir. Probabilities for pore fluid will typically change, whereas the lithology remains stable over time. This implies significant correlations across the vintages. We develop a methodology for the Bayesian prediction of joint probabilities for discrete lithology-fluid classes (LFCs) for two vintages, simultaneously considering the seismic amplitude-variation-with-offset data of both vintages. By taking into account the cross-vintage correlations of elastic and seismic properties, the simultaneous inversion ensures that the individual results of both vintages, as well as their differences, are consistent and constrained by the seismic data of both vintages. The method relies on prior geologic knowledge of stratigraphic layering, the possible lithologies and fluids within each layer, and the possible cross-vintage changes in lithology and pore fluid. Multiple LFCs can be used to represent different strengths of dynamic cross-vintage changes. We test the algorithm on a synthetic data set and data from the Edvard Grieg field in the central North Sea. Synthetic results demonstrate that the algorithm is able to use dual-vintage data together with a prior model specifying their correlations to calculate joint LFC posterior probabilities for both vintages with a lower degree of uncertainty than independent single-vintage inversions. The Edvard Grieg results indicate that the underlying model is sufficiently general to explain 4D variations in seismic data using a reasonably simple prior model of 4D LFC changes.
Seismic facies-controlled porosity prediction in a tight sandstone reservoir based on the XGBoost algorithm
Authors: Guo Jialiang , Yang Ruizhao , Wang Li , Wang Lingda , Sun Zhipeng , Han Fengtao
Published: September 2024

Porosity is one of the most important properties for evaluating hydrocarbon reservoirs. There is a strong nonlinearity between seismic data and rock-physical properties. Machine-learning methods possess the powerful ability to capture complex nonlinear relationships between these two parameters, holding significant potential for porosity prediction in tight sandstone reservoirs. In this study, we develop a seismic facies-controlled porosity prediction method based on the extreme gradient boosting algorithm. Through the seismic meme inversion method, we obtain high-resolution P-impedance data. In the inversion process, lateral variations of seismic waveforms were used instead of the variogram function. We create labels for model training using porosity curves and borehole side P-impedance data, applying them to the extreme gradient boosting regressor. To demonstrate its feasibility, we apply the model to a real 3D case from an oil field in the Songliao Basin. Our application results demonstrate that this method can provide porosity predictions for tight sandstone reservoirs, maintaining consistency with seismic waveforms and adhering to seismic facies control patterns. The method uses only acoustic traveltime, density, gamma rays, spontaneous potential well-log data, and poststack 3D seismic data as inputs, allowing for quick porosity predictions in the field. Compared with the seismic facies-controlled inversion combined with support vector machine and multiLayer perceptron methods, the method developed in this study provides more reliable porosity predictions, offering insights and references for the exploration and development of tight sandstone reservoirs.
Tissue-specific RNA-seq defines genes governing male tail tip morphogenesis in C. elegans
Authors: Kiontke Karin C. , Herrera R. Antonio , Mason D. Adam , Woronik Alyssa , Vernooy Stephanie , Patel Yash , Fitch David H. A.
Published: September 2024

Caenorhabditis elegans males undergo sex-specific tail tip morphogenesis (TTM) under the control of the DM-domain transcription factor DMD-3. To find genes regulated by DMD-3, we performed RNA-seq of laser-dissected tail tips. We identified 564 genes differentially expressed (DE) in wild-type males versus dmd-3(-) males and hermaphrodites. The transcription profile of dmd-3(-) tail tips is similar to that in hermaphrodites. For validation, we analyzed transcriptional reporters for 49 genes and found male-specific or male-biased expression for 26 genes. Only 11 DE genes overlapped with genes found in a previous RNAi screen for defective TTM. GO enrichment analysis of DE genes finds upregulation of genes within the unfolded protein response pathway and downregulation of genes involved in cuticle maintenance. Of the DE genes, 40 are transcription factors, indicating that the gene network downstream of DMD-3 is complex and potentially modular. We propose modules of genes that act together in TTM and are co-regulated by DMD-3, among them the chondroitin synthesis pathway and the hypertonic stress response.
Risk factors for complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia
Authors: Cai Haoliang , Wu Xiaohui , Chen Xi , Guo Jun , Chen Wenting
Published: September 2024

Objective: To identify risk factors for complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia and to construct a nomogram predictive model.
Methods: This retrospective study included 292 patients who underwent gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia at the Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from June 2020 to May 2023. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia. A nomogram prediction model was constructed using the RMS package of R4.1.2 software based on the independent risk factors identified. The predictive performance of the model was assessed using consistency index (C-index), calibration curve, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results: Seventy-five patients (25.68%) had complications. Body mass index (BMI), history of cardiovascular diseases, fasting time, history of respiratory diseases, and Sedation-Agitation Scale (SAS) score were identified as risk factors for complications. Based on this risk, a nomogram predictive model was constructed. The C-index of the nomogram model was 0.927. Calibration curve showed a good consistency between actual observations and nomogram predictions. The ROC curve area under curve (AUC) was 0.927 (95% CI: 0.895-0.959), indicating a certain predictive value for the occurrence of complications. When the optimal cut-off value was selected, the sensitivity and specificity of the model were 77.0% and 92.0%, respectively, indicating that the predictive model was effective.
Conclusions: BMI, history of cardiovascular disease, fasting time, history of respiratory disease, and SAS score are independent risk factors for complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia. The constructed nomogram predictive model has a good performance in predicting the occurrence of complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy with under acupuncture anesthesia.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.10087
How to cite this: Cai H, Wu X, Chen X, Guo J, Chen W. Risk factors for complications in patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy under acupuncture anesthesia. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.10087
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison between modified and conventional combined Trabeculotomy-Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin-C for intraocular pressure reduction in primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Raza Ahmed , Chaudhary Muhammad Ajmal , Mushtaq Asma , Khan Asad Aslam
Published: September 2024

Objectives: To determine the efficacy of modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy (CTT) with mitomycin-C (MMC) versus conventional CTT with MMC for intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction in patients with primary congenital glaucoma (PCG).
Methods: This interventional study was carried out in The Institute of Ophthalmology, Lahore from January 2018 to June 2019. We included 70 patients of either gender, with the age range from birth to ten years and with PCG having IOP >30 mm Hg. These patients were divided in groups A and B with 35 patients in each group. Patients in Group-A underwent modified CTT with MMC and in Group-B conventional CTT with MMC was carried out.
Results: The mean age of our patients was 15.17 ± 12.39 months. Regarding gender, 57 (81.4%) were males and 13 (18.6%) were females. Baseline mean IOP in Group-A was 32.49 ± 1.01 mm Hg whereas in Group-B mean IOP was 31.97 ± 1.04 mm Hg. After one month, the mean IOP was 27.60 ± 1.72 mm Hg in Group-A, whereas mean IOP was 27.40 ± 1.82 mmHg in Group-B. After three months, the mean IOP was 21.63 ± 1.09 mm Hg in Group-A, whereas 20.97 ± 1.12 mm Hg in Group-B. In Group-A efficacy was achieved in 14 (40%) patients whereas in Group-B efficacy was achieved in 25 (71.4%) patients.
Conclusion: Our study revealed that conventional CTT with MMC showed better efficacy than modified CTT with MMC for reduction of IOP in PCG.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8788
How to cite this: Raza A, Chaudhary MA, Mushtaq A, Khan AA. Comparison between modified and conventional combined Trabeculotomy-Trabeculectomy with Mitomycin-C for intraocular pressure reduction in primary congenital glaucoma. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8788
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparative observation between Roxithromycin and Azithromycin sequential therapy in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia in Children
Authors: Liu Dan , Zhang Yi-fei
Published: September 2024

Objective: To investigate the clinical efficacy of roxithromycin combined with azithromycin sequential therapy in the treatment of mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children.
Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 100 patients with mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia admitted to The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University from January 2020 to December 2022. All patients were divided into the observation group (roxithromycin combined with azithromycin sequential therapy) and the control group (azithromycin sequential therapy), with 50 cases in each group. The clinical efficacy, improvement time of clinical symptoms/signs, inflammation indexes, oxidative stress indexes and immune function levels of the two groups were compared. Moreover, the improvement of lung function indexes and the adverse reactions were observed.
Results: The overall response rate of the observation group was 96.00%, which was higher than the control group (84.00%) (p<0.05). The time of clinical symptoms/signs in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group(p<0.05). After treatment, significant improvements were seen in the levels of CRP, TNF-α, IL-6, GSH-Px, SOD, MDA, CD3+, CD4+, CD4+/CD8+, IgM, IgG , IgA, FEV1, FEV1%, FVC and FEV1/FVC of the two groups compared with those before treatment (p<0.05), and the improvement in the observation group was more obvious than that in the control group (p<0.05). The overall incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group was 6.00%, which was slightly lower than that in the control group (8.00%) (c²=0.154, P=0.695).
Conclusion: Roxithromycin combined with azithromycin sequential therapy is a safe regimen for the treatment of mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8942
How to cite this: Liu D, Zhang Y. Comparative observation between Roxithromycin and Azithromycin sequential therapy in the treatment of Mycoplasma pneumoniae Pneumonia in Children. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.8942
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Impact of complete dentures treatment on Oral health-related quality of Life (OHRQoL) in edentulous patients: A descriptive case series study
Authors: Tariq Shameen , Shoaib Ahmad , Chaudhary Farooq Ahmad , Habib Syed Rashid , Javed Muhammad Qasim
Published: September 2024

Objectives: To evaluate the changes in oral health-related quality of life [OHRQoL] before and three months after complete denture oral rehabilitation using the Geriatric oral health assessment index [GOHAI] in Pakistani elderly edentulous patients.
Methods: In this descriptive case series study a total of 80 edentulous patients were recruited from Islamic International Dental Hospital, Islamabad, Pakistan from November 2021 to April 2022. The OHRQoL was evaluated twice by using the GOHAI- Urdu version. First, before getting the complete denture, and subsequently after three months of using a prosthesis. The data were analysed using SPSS-23. Pre and post-comparison were done by t-test. Moreover, the ANOVA test was utilized to assess the socio-demographic variables-GOHAI score and association.
Results: The mean GOHAI scores increased significantly from 22.9 (SD = 3.01) at baseline to 28.1 (SD = 5.59) after three months (P = 0.001), reflecting an overall increase of 5.2 points. At baseline, the ability of the patient to swallow comfortably was found to have the highest mean GOHAI score of 3.02 (SD= 1.24) and after three months of complete denture insertion, the same questionnaire item further improved with the highest mean GOHAI score of 3.43 (SD=1.05). The socio-demographic characteristics-based comparison of mean pre and post-insertion GOHAI scores suggested a statistically significant difference (p=0.001).
Conclusion: The OHRQoL in elderly edentulous patients improved after complete denture delivery, and a significant improvement was noted in most GOHAI domains.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9402
How to cite this: Tariq S, Shoaib A, Chaudhary FA, Habib SR, Javed MQ. Impact of complete dentures treatment on Oral health-related quality of Life (OHRQoL) in edentulous patients: A descriptive case series study. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(9):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.9.9402
This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.