bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological study and molecular epidemiology of Anisakis larvae in mackerel fish
Authors: Cheypanya Vipavinee , Wongsawad Pheravut , Wongsawad Chalobol , Nantarat Nattawadee
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To examine and study the morphology, epidemiology, and molecular phylogeny of Anisakis larvae in blue mackerel [Scomber australasicus (Cuvier, 1832)] and Indian mackerel [Rastrelliger kanagurta (Cuvier, 1816)] using light microscope, scanning electron microscope, molecular phylogeny, and species delimitation methods for confirmation and investigation of Anisakis species and their evolutionary relationship.

Methods:

A total of 90 fish (45 per species) were purchased from a department store in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Anisakis samples were investigated for morphological characteristics using light and scanning electron microscopes. Molecular phylogeny and species delimitation methods based on the cox2 gene were performed.

Results:

The prevalence, mean intensity (Mean±SEM), and mean abundance of Anisakis larvae (Mean±SEM) in blue mackerel were 77.78%, 6.74±1.320, and 5.24±1.107, respectively, and in Indian mackerel, these values were 13.33%, 2.50±0.764, and 0.33±0.159, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy showed the detail of morphological characteristics and provided the different shapes of mucron and excretory pores in Anisakis larvae congruent with the phylogenetic tree. The species tree was congruent with the phylogenetic tree.

Conclusions:

The prevalence, mean intensity, and mean abundance of Anisakis larvae were higher in blue mackerel. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that Anisakis pegreffii was found in blue mackerel in Thailand. The phylogenetic tree also supported the morphological data of Anisakis larvae. However, species delimitation based on cox2 revealed 1-3 possible cryptic species in this genus. Anisakis spp. contamination of fish products is unpleasant and a health concern considering human infection with larvae (anisakiasis) arises.
New trends in pharmacological treatment of acute kidney injury
Authors: Abdallah Heba M.I.
Published: June 2021

Acute kidney injury, previously known as acute renal failure (AKI), is defined as an abrupt decrease in kidney function that occurs within hours or days. This new nomenclature opens a new door for possibility of treatment of developing renal injury before progression to unresolved renal failure. AKI arises due to diverse etiologic factors that rely mainly on three categories namely, pre-renal, intrinsic renal, and post-renal factors with different clinical pictures, and confers a spectrum of injury ranging from mild to severe and sometimes leads to end-stage renal disease. Complexity of pathogenesis and other factors generate barriers to developing effective treatments despite a large number of experimental and clinical studies. In this review, recent advances in the potential of the currently used drugs for renoprotection, novel pharmacological targets, and prospective therapeutics for AKI are discussed. The information in this review was extracted from electronic resources (PubMed, Google Scholar, Wiley, Science Direct, Springer), and English scientific books by using keywords including kidney, injury, recent therapy, and pharmacological targets. The articles were carefully checked for their relevance to the current manuscript. Recent targets of cellular repair or regenerative processes involved in AKI such as autophagy, ferroptosis inhibition, and p53 antagonism seem to be effective in disease control. This may help researchers and clinicians to understand how to target the interrelated molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of AKI.
Antioxidative, cytotoxic, and anti-metastatic potentials of Laurencia obtusa and Ulva lactuca seaweeds
Authors: Al Monla Reem , Salma Yahya , Kouzayha Achraf , Gali-Muhtasib Hala , Dassouki Zeina , Mawlawi Hiba
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To investigate the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of the most active extracts from Ulva lactuca and Laurencia obtusa against colon and cervical cancer cell lines.

Methods:

The antioxidant radical scavenging activity of the algal extracts was estimated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl colorimetric assay. Moreover, the cytotoxic potential of these bioactive extracts was studied against HCT-116 and HeLa cells by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. Wound healing analysis was adopted to evaluate the anti-metastatic effects of protein extracts from both algae. Cell cycle analysis was performed by flow cytometry, and apoptotic bodies were detected using 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole fluorescent staining. Amino acids of hydrolyzed protein extract were separated and identified chromatographically by high performance liquid chromatography.

Results:

The green algae Ulva lactuca had higher lipid content than Laurencia obtusa, whereas the latter had higher protein content with high antioxidant capacity. Protein extracts had significant dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity and anti-metastatic activity against HCT-116 cells. Protein b extracts of both algae obtained from the chloroform:hexane solvent lipid-free residue caused morphological changes and induced apoptosis of HCT-116 cells. Further analysis revealed that apoptosis induced upon Laurencia obtusa protein b treatment was triggered via the ROS pathway, causing a significant increase in the sub-G1 population. Glycine and arginine (5.94 and 5.47 μM, respectively) were the most common amino acids in Laurencia obtusa protein b extract.

Conclusions:

Proteins of Laurencia obtusa and Ulva lactuca could be considered as an adjuvant nutraceutical source of pro-apoptotic and anti-metastatic biomolecules against colon cancer.
Effect of royal jelly on in vitro fertilization and early embryo development following nicotine treatment in adult female rats
Authors: Khodabandeh Zhila , Nejati Vahid , Shalizar-Jalali Ali , Najafi Gholamreza , Rahmani Fatemeh
Published: June 2021

Objective:

To scrutinize the protective role of royal jelly as an antioxidant on nicotine-induced changes in malondialdehyde (MDA) level, p53 expression, in vitro fertilization (IVF) rate, and early embryo development in adult female rats.

Methods:

A total of 56 adult female Wistar rats were divided into 8 groups (n=7 in each group). Group 1 served as an untreated control group, group 2, 3 and 4 received nicotine at a dose of 0.50, 1.00 and 2.00 mg/kg respectively, group 5 received royal jelly at a dose of 100.00 mg/kg, and group 6, 7 and 8 received 0.50, 1.00 and 2.00 mg/kg nicotine, respectively, with 100.00 mg/kg body weight royal jelly. Nicotine and royal jelly were administered daily for 49 days in the experimental groups intra-peritoneally and orally, respectively. At the end of the experimental period, p53 expression, IVF rate and early embryo development as well as MDA concentration were measured.

Results:

The IVF rate, number of cumulus oocytes, two-cell embryos and blastocysts decreased in the nicotine-treated groups in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, p53 mRNA expression and MDA levels increased in the nicotine-treated groups. Royal jelly co-administration led to partial improvement in the aforementioned parameters.

Conclusions:

Royal jelly may have a repro-protective effect in nicotine-administered female rats in terms of its anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic properties.
A Systematic Literature Review on COVID-19, Clinical Manifestation, Laboratory and Radiologic Features
Authors: Soltani Saber , Zakeri Armin , Rezayat Sara Akhavan , Karimi Mohammad Reza , Anbaji Fateme Zomorodi , Tabibzadeh Alireza , Zebardast Arghavan , Zakeri Amir Mohammad , Nakhaei Mohammadvala Ashtar , Afzali Shervin , Erfani Yousef , Poortahmasebi Vahdat , Farahani Abbas
Published: June 2021

Novel coronavirus outbreak in December 2019 leads to current pandemic condition worldwide. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 known as the aetiologic agent of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The major characterisation of COVID-19 is to involve lung and induce pneumonia, multiorgan failure, hypoxia and deat h. This systematic literature review aimed to assess the clinical manifestation and laboratory and radiologic features in patients with COVID-19. A literature review of the indexed articles in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and Embase was performed to evaluate pathophysiology of COVID-19. Between 77,406 assessed COVID-19 patients, the most reported background diseases were cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. After fever, cough was the second most common repeated clinical feature. Furthermore, the laboratory investigations reveal that the C-reactive protein (CRP) increasing is the most common frequent laboratory finding. Chest imaging assessment indicates that bilateral involvement of the lungs is more common than unilateral involvement. Despite the fact that some of the COVID-19-infected patients are asymptomatic, the majority of patients showed a broad range of manifestation. The clinical findings help in better understanding of COVID-19 pathogenesis and patient's management. The primary concept of understanding of COVID-19 pathophysiology is necessary for reach to target therapeutics approach. According to the results, further in vivo investigations on animal models could be recommended for the treatment of COVID-19 patients in future.
Interdigital Palmar Dermatoglyphics Patterns of Bangladeshi Down Syndrome Patient
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Monir , Ashrafuzzaman Md , Jahan Iffat , Naher Nurun , Haque Mainul , Lugova Halyna
Published: June 2021

Background:

Dermatoglyphics study the ridged skin patterns of the palms, fingers, soles and toes. They remain unchanged throughout life and are unique for the individual. Hereditary factors determine the size, relative position and type of pattern formed by the dermal ridges in the palm's interdigital areas. The present study was conducted to evaluate the interdigital association pattern of palmar dermatoglyphics among the Down syndrome patient.

Materials and Methods:

The cross-sectional observational analytical study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy, Chittagong Medical College (CMC), Chattogram from January 2018 to January 2019. A total of 200 participants were included by convenient sampling according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. One hundred Down syndrome patients were recruited in the study group from different Down syndrome society organizations in Bangladesh. One hundred other medical science and dental background students studying at CMC were selected as control irrespective of sex. Dermatoglyphics print was taken by the ink and paper method. The detailed dermatoglyphic analysis was done by using a magnifying glass, calculator and scale. Data were analysed for statistical significance by Chi-square test wherever applicable, by using a computer-based program SPSS-23 and MS Excel. P value was considered significant if it was <0.05 at a 95% level of confidence.

Results:

The interdigital pattern frequencies showed that the third interdigital loops of Down's syndrome were found in 78% of the right hands and 78% of the left hands (P < 0.001). The corresponding figures were 47% and 42% of the controls, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

It is revealed that there are significant differences in the interdigital pattern between Down syndrome patients and the control group.
Cost-Effective Low-Dose Streptozotocin and High-Fat Diet Improve the Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Rat Analysis
Authors: Asmara Holifa Saheera , A Latif Ahmad Zubaidi , Mohammad Nasir , Mahadevo Rao US , Haque Mainul
Published: June 2021

Objective:

The induction of type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rat model using the Sprague Dawley (SD) species is commonly performed for further laboratory experimental purposes. Various laboratory conditions or even other environments provide different outcomes in achieving the model utilising the previous protocol.

Materials and Methods:

We performed an experimental animal study. Researchers administered a revamped induction regimen involving a variation of a high-fat diet (HFD) with several low-dose streptozotocin injections and a glucose drink immediately after injection.

Results:

HFD-fed rats have demonstrated severe hyperglycaemic status, though they were further evaluated to assess their insulin sensitivity. Analysing subgroups, HFD with glucose drink indicated poor insulin sensitivity after 2 h of intraperitoneal insulin injection. Poor glucose clearance revealed insulin resistance in the rat model (P = 0.026). Different dietary courses and fasting blood glucose were found not significant, P < 0.05. Complementary glucose in HFD was much more likely to cause hyperglycaemic characteristic, although HFD alone did not indicate many discrepancies in hyperglycaemic condition χ2 (2, N = 216) =181.385, P < 0.01. The extra glucose in HFD greatly decreased glucose clearance efficiency, although HFD alone did not demonstrate a clear correlation with the glucose clearance rate, χ2 (2, N = 1003) =700.638, P < 0.01. In addition, the hyperglycaemic state was conversely correlated with insulin sensitivity (r = −0.727, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This approach provides an alternative T2DM induction technique in SD rats. The key features of T2DM, including hyperglycaemic state and insulin insensitivity, were successfully developed in the animal model.
Protective Effects of Abelmoschus Esculentus Hydroalcoholic Extract on Changes in Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Hormones and Testicular Tissue in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Adult Rats
Authors: Hosseinpur Mahya , Shariati Mehrdad , Hosseini Seyed Ebrahim
Published: June 2021

Background:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the protective effect of different doses Abelmoschus esculentus hydroalcoholic extract (AEHE) on changes in pituitary-gonadal axis hormones and testicular tissue in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic adult rats.

Materials and Methods:

The rats were randomly divided into six groups of six. The control group did not receive treatment, but the STZ60 group received 60 mg/kg STZ intraperitoneally for 3 days to induce diabetes and the AEHE400 group received 400 mg/kg AEHE orally for 28 days. The STZ60 + AEHE100, 200 and 400 groups first received 60 mg/kg STZ intraperitoneally for 3 days to induce diabetes and then received 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg AEHE, respectively, for 28 days orally. At the end of the study, the hormonal levels were measured by ELISA method, and the testicular tissue was evaluated histopathologically.

Results:

Hormonal results represented that compared to the control and AEHE400 groups, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels had increased in STZ60 group, and testosterone level had decreased. In the STZ60 + AEHE groups, FSH, LH and testosterone levels were improved compared to the STZ60 group. Histopathological findings also showed that compared to the control and AEHE400 groups, the number of spermatogenic and Leydig cells decreased in STZ60 group, but there were no changes in Sertoli cells. In the STZ60 + AEHE groups, an improvement in the number of spermatogenic and Leydig cells was observed compared to the STZ60 group.

Conclusion:

At the optimum dose (400 mg/kg), AEHE has protective effects on the testicular tissue and levels of pituitary-gonadal axis hormones in STZ-induced diabetic rats.
An Evaluation of Sustained Attention with Frontal Electroencephalogram
Authors: Khan Shah M , Mir Suhail Rafiq , Husain Akbar
Published: June 2021

Background:

The activity in various regions of the brain can be assessed through changes in spectral and temporal aspects of EEG, in reference to particular and diverse physiological states. The band powers calculated through frequency domain decline through the baseline and execution of voluntary movements. The deterioration in perceptual efficiency resulting from prolonged focused attention and conditions. The present study investigated the feasibility of using Clock task as a means to evaluate the sustained attention through frontal EEG.

Method:

The Clock task, a paradigm for the assessment of sustained attention was designed. The participants have to monitor and react when the hand of the clock stops slightly longer than usual. The sample comprised of 6 participants who complete Clock task. Frontal EEG signals were recorded.

Results:

The left inferior frontal gyrus are associated with vigilance in beta frequency bands when attention is directed towards task. The performance in clock task, showed high brain activity when the subject was engaged in maintaining vigilance. The exploration of beta activity strengthens the Sensory feedback through visual modality during static motor control.

Conclusion:

The ventral pathway of the visual information processing in the described cognitive task may play a significant role to regulate attentional processes. The study concluded the left prefrontal and temporal regions plays a significant role in the modulation of sustained attention. The area can be potentially used to monitor changes both at physiological and psychological level during alertness.
Investigating the Effects Of Ketofol and the Combination of Remifentanil and Propofol on the Duration of the Convulsion and Haemodynamics of Psychotic Patients in Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Yazdi Bijan , Modir Hesameddin , Kamali Alireza , Jamilian Hamidreza , Najafi Forogh
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a method of treatment for patients suffering from depressive disorders, bipolarity, and schizophrenia and is accompanied by hyperdynamic responses. This study aimed to find intravenous anaesthesia with profound effects but fewer side effects.

Materials and Methods:

This study was an interventional clinical trial, in which 35 patients were categorised into three groups each being treated in three sessions (105 cases in total). Group A received distilled water + propofol 1mg/kg, Group B received remifentanil 1 µg/kg + propofol 1mg/kg and Group C received ketamine + propofol (ketofol) 1 with the dose of 1 mg/kg. Then, the patients were investigated in terms of hemodynamic changes and recovery time in the first 10 min.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the three groups of the study in terms of the patients' heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation percentage (P = 0.598, P = 0.283 and P = 0.172, respectively). However, there was a significant difference (P = 0.0001) amongst the three groups in terms of recovery time as Group C (ketofol) had the lowest recovery time and Group B (remifentanil + propofol) had the highest recovery time. Moreover, there was a significant difference across the three groups regarding the agitation score showing that sole propofol resulted in the lowest amount of agitation in the three groups (P = 0.026). The highest amount belonged to Group C.

Conclusions:

The ketofol compound had the lowest recovery time, and the remifentanil + propofol compound had the highest recovery time in ECT candidate patients. Sole propofol caused the lowest amount of agitation and ketofol caused the highest amount of agitation in the patients.
Lumbar spinal epidural hematoma without vertebral fracture causing cauda equina syndrome
Authors: Wu Tsung-Mu , Chiang Tien-Yu , Huang Po-Chang , Wong Kin-Weng
Published: June 2021

Spinal epidural hematoma (SEH) is a rare disease and may lead to spinal cord compression. It could be caused by trauma, including iatrogenic procedures such as spinal surgery or spinal anesthesia or by spontaneous events related to coagulopathy or arteriovenous malformation. Once SEH is suspected clinically and confirmed by image modalities, it should be emergently decompressed by surgical intervention. Prognosis depends on the rate of symptoms development, interval from symptom onset to surgery, level of spinal involvement, and degree of neurological deficits. Here, we report the case of a 79-year-old female who sustained a fall months before admission, presented with a 3-day history of back and bilateral lower limbs weakness. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated epidural hematomas at the level of T12 to L2 without associated vertebral fracture. An urgent decompressive laminectomy with blood clot removal was performed immediately. Postoperatively, her neurologic deficits improved significantly except for residual numbness.
Laboratory virtual instrument engineering workbench-based semi-automated measurement of cranial asymmetry
Authors: Sun Jui-Ming , Huang Chih-Ta , Hsieh Cheng-Ta
Published: June 2021

Background:

Cranial asymmetry has been associated with the laterality of neurological diseases including chronic subdural hematoma, subdural hygroma, and stroke. Although picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are commonly used radiologic tools, simple angle or contoured area measurement cannot accurately reflect the actual severity of cranial asymmetry. Therefore, we developed an objective semi-automated image analysis tool based on the Laboratory Virtual Instrument Engineering Workbench (LabVIEW) system and compared its efficacy and variability with those of PACS in measuring cranial asymmetry.

Methods:

This image analysis software was developed on the basis of the LabVIEW system. Three sizes of plastic water pipes and computed tomographic images of the brain from three patients were used for experimental and clinical validations, respectively. We compared the percent error of the calculated areas of the pipes as well as coefficient of variation (CV) and cranial index of symmetry (CIS) ratio obtained from LabVIEW and PACS.

Results:

Experimental validation showed the overall mean difference of actual size versus estimated size obtained using PACS and LabVIEW-based image analysis to be 7.51% and 4.68%, respectively. This result indicated that LabVIEW-based image analysis provided an estimated area closer to that of the actual size of the phantom, with significantly low inter- and intraobserver variability (P < 0.001). Clinical validation also showed lower variability in the CVs and CIS ratios of areas estimated using LabVIEW-based image analysis, ranging from 0.01% to 0.13% and from 89.2% to 99.1%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated through experimental and clinical validation that LabVIEW-based image analysis is a convenient and effective method for investigating cranial asymmetry. This imaging tool can provide more clues in understanding cranial asymmetry.
Postoperative outcomes of microphlebectomy and Trendelenburg operation with stripping for saphenofemoral junction incompetence
Authors: Lakshmi Bhuvana , Gowthaman Siddartha , Elamaran E , Vinoth S , Ramanathan M
Published: June 2021

Background:

With more than 10 million cases occurring annually in India, varicose veins can sometimes result in severe discomfort and pain besides disfiguration of skin. The objective of the study was to assess the most viable treatment options for varicose veins between the traditional Trendelenburg procedure and microphlebectomy.

Methods:

This was an interventional study conducted at a tertiary center in South India. Patients above 18 years of age, presenting with varicose veins due to saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) incompetence and scheduled for surgical management, were included in a sample size of 46. Subjects were randomized into two groups – Group 1 underwent micro phlebectomy and Group 2 underwent Trendelenburg operation with stripping of great saphenous vein (GSV). Postoperative pain was assessed on day of surgery, day after, and postoperative day 7. A venous Doppler ultrasound was conducted 6 weeks after the surgical procedure, to look for reflux at SFJ.

Results:

Group 1 subjects reported lesser immediate postoperative pain and incurred significantly less cost as determined by an independent sample t-test. Chi-square test found no significant difference in the rate of occurrence of local complications (P > 0.05), and no recurrence was noted among both groups.

Conclusion:

Microphlebectomy is a more feasible treatment option than Trendelenburg operation with GSV stripping on account of lower costs. It is also a patient friendly alternative due to immediate reduction in pain.
Asymptomatic diffuse cerebritis presenting as middle cerebral artery infarct
Authors: Ganapathy Sibhi , Adesh J , Bysani Pratham , Pandya Jay , Raykar Rajesh R.
Published: June 2021

Diffuse cerebritis is a devastating disease presenting with features of raised intracranial tension, deficits, and features of meningeal and neural irritation. The most common feature is seizures which may persist despite normal antiepileptic medication. We present a patient with diffuse cerebritis who presented as a subacute middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory infarct without any symptoms of meningeal irritation or infection. The patient once admitted deteriorated with pupillary asymmetry and loss of consciousness. A computerized tomography scan revealed a massive increase in cerebral edema of the infarcted brain with midline shift and mass effect. In view of the serious threat to life, a decompressive craniectomy was done. Once the dura was opened, pus was seen subpially oozing into the subdural space. This was sampled for analysis and the scalp flap was closed with a drain. The patient improved well post surgically and was gradually extubated. His pus was found to grow Klebsiella pneumoniae sensitive to amikacin and gentamicin. A prolonged course of antibiotics was started. An angiogram done to determine the cause of the infarct showed only distal MCA branches (M4) occluded. The patient later deteriorated with venous thrombosis and succumbed to his illness later. We present a discussion on the etiology of the patient's condition and possible treatment options when faced with such situations.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices on sanitation, water, and hygiene among mothers of under five children in rural area
Authors: Katkuri Sushma
Published: June 2021

Background:

Simple practices such as appropriate washing of the hands, supply as well as use of clean water, excreta disposal in a scientific manner, sanitary latrine use, persona hygiene, etc., help to maintain health and promote the quality of life by preventing a number of diseases.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to study knowledge, attitude, and practices on sanitation, water and hygiene among mothers of under five children in rural area.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 347 mothers of under five children in villages around the Rural Health Training Center. Data were collected in semistructured questionnaire where the information was obtained by face-to-face interview.

Results:

Majority mothers belonged to 21–30 years (87.3%); educated up to intermediate level (69.7%); were home makers (77.5%) and majority (94.5%) belonged to lower class of socioeconomic status. 43.8% used boiling method to purify water at household level. For the baby food, 31.1% were using boiled water. Majority (84.7%) had adequate knowledge on hand-washing. 71.5% told that hand washing is necessary to keep oneself away from the diseases. 97.1% were washing their hands after defecation and 85.9% expressed the need of soap for hand washing. 33.7% told that flies over food are the cause of worm infections. For diarrhea, 44.4% told that unhygienic food is the cause of diarrhea. 87.1% used dumping for disposal of waste water from kitchen and general household; 82.7% were dumping solid waste. Using the sanitary latrine was seen in 83.3%.

Conclusion:

It was observed that the knowledge on purification of water was poor. Second, very few people use boiled water for preparing baby's food. The knowledge about washing of hands after defecation was good.
Clinical profile, management, and postoperative complications among patients with trigeminal neuralgia at a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Raykar Rajesh R. , Ganapathy Sibhi
Published: June 2021

Background:

There is no clarity in diagnostic criteria of trigeminal neuralgia, and hence, the diagnosis is difficult and often delayed. Therefore, the patient has to visit many clinics before the final and correct diagnosis is established. Trigeminal neuralgia is not harmful, but it definitely affects the quality of life. It may become nonresponsive to treatment.

Objective:

To study clinical profile, management, and postoperative complications among patients with trigeminal neuralgia.

Methods:

The present study was designed as a retrospective study for which the case records of patients as having trigeminal neuralgia kept with Medical Records Department, of a tertiary care hospital were studied and the patients were called for follow-up during the study period of July 2012 to December 2015 in the present study. Sixty-five patients who responded to follow-up call during the study period were included in the present study.

Results:

Majority belonged to 41–50 years (36.9%). Males (75.4%) were more than females (24.6%). Male-to-female ratio was 3.1:1. Both sides were equally affected. Pain distribution was commonly seen (38.5%) in V2+V3. Most common precipitating factor was cold (33.8%). 13.8% had hyperesthesia and 12.3% had hypoesthesia. Majority (83.1%) were directly operated for microvascular decompression. Trigeminal neuralgia was due to vascular compression (83.1%). The most common microvascular relationship was with superior cerebellar artery (50.8%). Only five patients had postoperative complications.

Conclusion:

Males were affected more than females. V2+V3 was common site of pain distribution. Cold was found to precipitate trigeminal neuralgia. The most common microvascular relationship was with superior cerebellar artery. Thus, trigeminal neuralgia has varied presentation, and hence, care needs to be taken in the diagnosis and management.
Distinctive morphological and molecular features of urothelial carcinoma with an inverted growth pattern
Authors: Sanguedolce Francesca , Calò Beppe , Chirico Marco , Falagario Ugo , Busetto Gian Maria , Zanelli Magda , Bisagni Alessandra , Zizzo Maurizio , Ascani Stefano , Carrieri Giuseppe , Cormio Luigi
Published: June 2021

Urothelial carcinoma with an inverted growth pattern (UC-IGP) is a peculiar entity within the spectrum of urothelial lesions. While efforts have been made over the last few decades to unravel its carcinogenesis and relationship with conventional urothelial carcinoma, the exact classification of inverted urothelial lesions is a matter of debate. The morphological features of UC-IGP pose several issues in differential diagnosis with other mostly benign lesions. Various techniques, including immunohistochemistry, UroVysion, and many molecular methods, have been employed to study the exact nature of this lesion. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the morphological and immunophenotypical aspects of UC-IGP. Moreover, we present and discuss the immunohistochemical and molecular markers involved in diagnosis and prognosis of UC-IGP lesions.
Use Cases for Diagnostic Communication for Plug-in Electric Vehicles
Authors:   Hybrid - EV Committee
Published: June 2021

This SAE Surface Vehicle Technical Information Report, SAE J2836/4, establishes diagnostic use cases between plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) and the electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). As PEVs are deployed and include both plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) and battery electric (BEV) vehicle variations, failures of the charging session between the EVSE and PEV may include diagnostics particular to the vehicle variations. This document describes the general information required for diagnostics and SAE J2847/4 will include the detail messages to provide accurate information to the customer and/or service personnel to identify the source of the issue and assist in resolution. Existing vehicle diagnostics can also be added and included during this charging session regarding issues that have occurred or are imminent to the EVSE or PEV, to assist in resolution of these items.
Coconut oil and palm oil’s role in nutrition, health and national development: A review
Authors: Boateng Laurene , Ansong Richard , Owusu William , Steiner-Asiedu Matilda
Published: June 2021

Coconut and palm oils which were the major sources of dietary fats for centuries in most of West Africa have been branded as unhealthy highly saturated fats. Their consumption has been peddled to supposedly raise the level of blood cholesterol, thereby increasing the risk of coronary heart disease. This adverse view has led to a reduction in their consumption in West Africa and they have been substituted for imported vegetable oils. Recent information however, indicates some beneficial effects of these oils particularly their roles in nutrition, health and national development. There is the need for a better understanding of their effects on health, nutritional status and national development. This paper therefore attempts to review the roles which coconut and palm oils play in these respects in developing countries, as a means of advocating for a return to their use in local diets.Funding: None declaredKeywords: Palm oil, coconut oil, nutrition, health, national development
Risk of transmission of viral haemorrhagic fevers and the insecticide susceptibility status of aedes aegypti (linnaeus) in some sites in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Suzuki Takashi , Osei Joseph H , Sasaki Sasaki , Adimazoya Michelle , Appawu Maxwell , Boakye Daniel , Ohta Nobuo , Dadzie Samuel
Published: June 2021

Background: Dengue is one of the emerging diseases that can mostly only be controlled by vector control since there is no vaccine for the disease. Although, Dengue has not been reported in Ghana, movement of people from neighbouring countries where the disease has been reported can facilitate transmission of the disease. Objective: This study was carried on the University of Ghana campus to determine the risk of transmission of viral haemorrhagic fevers and the insecticide susceptibility status of Ae. aegypti in some sites in Accra, Ghana. Design: Larval surveys were carried to inspect containers within households and estimate larval indices and adult Aedes mosquitoes were collected using human landing collection technique. WHO tube assays was used to assess the insecticide susceptibility status of Aedes mosquitoes. Results: Ae. aegypti were the most prevalent species, 75.5% and followed by Ae. vittatus, 23.9 %. Ae. albopictus and Ae. granti were in smaller numbers. Household index (HI), Breteau index (BI), and container index were calculated as 8.2%, 11.2% and 10.3% respectively with man-vector contact rate of 0.67 bites/man-hour estimated for the area. The mortalities recorded for Ae. aegypti from WHO tube assays was 88%, 94%, 80% and 99% for DDT (4%), deltamethrin (0.05%), lambdacyhalothrin (0.05%) and permethrin (0.75%) respectively.Conclusion: The survey results indicated that the density of Aedes mosquitoes was considered to be sufficient to promote an outbreak of viral haemorrhagic fevers on Legon Campus. Aedes mosquitoes were found to be resistant to DDT, deltamethrin and lamdacyhalothrin, but susceptible to permethrin. Funding: This study was supported in part by Japan Initiative for Global Research Network on Infectious Diseases(J-Grid).Keywords: Mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti, insecticide, risk, VHF transmission, Ghana
Hydatid cyst of the orbit in a young Nigerian female: a case report
Authors: Fasina Oluyemi , Ogun Olabiyi G
Published: June 2021

Objective: To report an unusual case of orbital hydatid cyst successfully managed by surgical excision.Case report: A 33-year-old female presented with gradual protrusion of the left eye associated with poor vision, cosmetic embarrassment and watering. She had excision biopsy of an encapsulated cystic lesion with cheesy tissue and serous content. Orbital hydatid cyst due to echinococcosis was confirmed at histopathological examination of the excised tissue. She subsequently became pregnant hence, could not undergo post-operative antihelminthic treatment, but was managed conservatively with no recurrence after five years of regular follow-up.Conclusion: Orbital hydatid cyst should be considered as a differential in a young patient presenting with unilateral proptosisFunding: NoneKeywords: Echinococcosis, Hydatid cyst, Orbit, Nigerian, Proptosis
Prevalence, perception and correlates of low back pain among healthcare workers in tertiary health institutions in Sokoto, Nigeria
Authors: Awosan Kehinde J , Yikawe Semen S , Oche Oche M , Oboirien Muhammad
Published: June 2021

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a common cause of disability worldwide. Healthcare workers are particularly prone to it because of the physical and emotional factors associated with their profession.Objectives: To determine the prevalence, perception and correlates of LBP among healthcare workers in tertiary health institutions in Sokoto, Nigeria.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 healthcare workers selected by multistage sampling technique from July to September 2016. Anthropometry was done for the participants in addition to questionnaire administration.Results: The mean age of the study participants was 36.99 +/- 8.23 years. The lifetime, annual, and point prevalence of LBP among the participants were 56.2%, 39.1% and 17.2% respectively. Most, 151 (83.9%) of the 180 participants that have ever experienced LBP reported that it commenced after starting work, and they perceived it to be due to standing for long hours (57.2%), awkward postures (22.2%) and carrying heavy objects/patients at work (20.6%). Older age, female sex, longer duration of practice, overweight/obesity, and lifting heavy objects/patients at work were significantly associated with LBP among the participants.Conclusion: The prevalence of LBP is high among healthcare workers in Sokoto, Nigeria; although it was also associated with older age and female sex, being in practice for 10 years and above, overweight/obesity, and lifting heavy objects/patients at work were the predictors identified. Management of the respective hospitals should prevent workplace exposures to heavy weight/objects by establishing “lift teams” as a temporary measure, and also implement “zero lift programs” in their facilities.Funding: NilKeywords: Prevalence, perception, correlates, low back pain, healthcare workers.
Students’ perceptions of the learning environment in two Nigerian medical schools offering different curricula
Authors: Ogun Olufunmilola A. , Nottidge Timothy E. , Roff Sue
Published: June 2021

Objective: Compare the results of administering the DREEM questionnaire in two Nigerian medical schools offering traditional and student-centred curricular respectively, to identify any differences in the learning environment and appreciate advantages of the more modern curriculum.Methods: A survey design was used. Data was analysed using the DREEM scoring rubric. The independent t-test was used to compare results. Setting: The DREEM questionnaire was administered to final year medical students at two participating centres. Participants: Final year students of a teacher-centred and a student-centred medical school. Results: There were 138 respondents – 50 (96.2% of the final year students) from the teacher centred school and 88 (59.1% of the final year students) from the student-centred school. The mean total DREEM score was 117+22.3 in the former and 119 +23.6 in the latter (p = 0.798). Mean age of students in the teacher centred school was 28 ± 5.28 years, while that of the student-centred school was 23 ± 1.83 years (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The mean total DREEM score proximity between the schools suggests that the younger students using a more student-centred curriculum have less of an appreciation of their improved learning environment than is expected. Thus, the hidden curriculum could be lagging behind the written one. The older students in the teacher centred environment have a more mature appreciation of their learning climate.  Funding: Personal sourcesKeywords: medical education, Nigeria, curriculum, DREEM
Technologie wspierające prywatność – ideologia, prawo, wdrożenia
Authors: Mider Daniel , Ziemak Ewa Aleksandra
Published: June 2021

Technologie wspierające prywatność (Privacy Enhancing Technologies, PET) stwarzają zagrożenie ładu społecznego. Wskazuje na to analiza ich ideologiczno-politycznych fundamentów oraz uregulowań prawnych wprowadzających ograniczenia w zakresie ich używania, a także analiza ich faktycznych zastosowań w działalności cyberprzestępczej. Opracowanie ma charakter przeglądowy i praktyczny, dokonano w nim autorskiego stypologizowania technologii wspierających prywatność. Ocenie poddano wybrane instrumenty informatyczne, które są najpowszechniej używane oraz stanowią potencjalne i rzeczywiste zagrożenie. Są to: oprogramowania zapewniające anonimową komunikację (Tor, Freenet, Linux Tails, Whonix), ekosystemy kryptowalut umożliwiające anonimową wymianę handlową (Monero, Zcash, Dash) oraz aplikacja, która pozwala na szyfrowanie danych (VeraCrypt). Podsumowanie jest próbą wskazania modelowych atrybutów technologii wspierających prywatność na podstawie wcześniej przeprowadzonych analiz. Privacy Enhancing Technologies – ideology, law and implementations Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PET) create a threat to the social order which is shown in the analysis of their ideological as well as political foundations and legal regulations that introduce restrictions on their use. Study into their actual applications in cybercriminal activity proves it too. This paper is a review with practical purpose and includes an original typology of PET. The most commonly used IT instruments that create a potential and actual threat were selected and analysed: software ensuring anonymous communication (Tor, Freenet, Linux Tails, Whonix), cryptocurrency systems enabling anonymous trade (Monero, Zcash, Dash) and an application enabling data encryption (VeraCrypt). The summary includes an attempt to extract the model attributes of privacy-enhancing technologies on the basis of previous analyses.
Izraelskie ustawodawstwo antyterrorystyczne wobec zagrożeń XXI wieku
Authors: Pokrzywiński Paweł
Published: June 2021

Artykuł ma na celu przedstawienie założeń Prawa zwalczania terroryzmu uchwalonego w 2016 r. w Izraelu w zakresie definiowania i, zwalczania terroryzmu oraz sankcjonowania przestępstw z nim związanych. Autor ukazuje izraelską percepcję tych zagrożeń uwidaczniającą się w nowym ustawodawstwie. Zostanie ona zestawiona z przepisami obowiązującymi wcześniej, aby pokazać, jak zmieniało się postrzeganie tych zagadnień przez rządzących i jakie zmiany wprowadziło nowe prawo. W tym celu autor zastosuje metodę instytucjonalno-prawną i metodę porównawczą różnicy, a także skorzysta z teorii sekurytyzacji. Przeprowadzona analiza pozwoli mu na stwierdzenie, że z perspektywy rządzących terroryzm jest nadal uważany za główne zagrożenie Państwa Izrael. Prawo z 2016 r. wprowadziło możliwość zastosowania wielu środków nadzwyczajnych w ramach przeciwdziałania temu zjawisku. To pokazuje, że partie, które je uchwaliły, mają jastrzębie spojrzenie na kwestie związane z walką z terroryzmem. Israeli counter-terrorist legislation against the threats of the 21st century The aim of the article is to present objectives of the Israeli Counter-Terrorism Law passed in 2016. The author examines the way of defining and combating terrorism, and the penalty measures related to criminal activity linked with it. Thus, the author shows the Israeli authorities’ perception of threat connected with terrorism. The previous counter-terrorist law is compared with the new one to demonstrate the modification of the vision of security. The article seeks to answer the question what changes and views have been implemented by the new law. To achieve those aims the author used the comparison method and an analysis of the law and the securitization theory. It allowed to state that terrorism is still regarded by Israeli politicians as the main threat for the State of Israel and its citizens. The amended law allowed for the use of many emergency measures. Overall, it exhibits a hawkish stance towards combating terrorism of parties which amended the law.
Maximums of the Additive Differential Probability of Exclusive-Or
Authors: Mouha Nicky , Kolomeec Nikolay , Akhtiamov Danil , Sutormin Ivan , Panferov Matvey , Titova Kseniya , Bonich Tatiana , Ishchukova Evgeniya , Tokareva Natalia , Zhantulikov Bulat
Published: June 2021

At FSE 2004, Lipmaa et al. studied the additive differential probability adp⊕(α,β → γ) of exclusive-or where differences α,β,γ ∈ Fn2 are expressed using addition modulo 2n. This probability is used in the analysis of symmetric-key primitives that combine XOR and modular addition, such as the increasingly popular Addition-Rotation-XOR (ARX) constructions. The focus of this paper is on maximal differentials, which are helpful when constructing differential trails. We provide the missing proof for Theorem 3 of the FSE 2004 paper, which states that maxα,βadp⊕(α,β → γ) = adp⊕(0,γ → γ) for all γ. Furthermore, we prove that there always exist either two or eight distinct pairs α,β such that adp⊕( α,β → γ) = adp⊕(0,γ → γ), and we obtain recurrence formulas for calculating adp⊕. To gain insight into the range of possible differential probabilities, we also study other properties such as the minimum value of adp⊕(0,γ → γ), and we find all γ that satisfy this minimum value.
Power Yoga: Variable-Stretch Security of CCM for Energy-Efficient Lightweight IoT
Authors: Gjiriti Emiljano , Reyhanitabar Reza , Vizár Damian
Published: June 2021

The currently ongoing NIST LWC project aims at identifying new standardization targets for lightweight authenticated encryption with associated data (AEAD) and (optionally) lightweight cryptographic hashing. NIST has deemed it important for performance and cost to be optimized on relevant platforms, especially for short messages. Reyhanitabar, Vaudenay and Vizár (Asiacrypt 2016) gave a formal treatment for security of nonce-based AEAD with variable stretch, i.e., when the length of the authentication tag is changed between encryptions without changing the key. They argued that AEAD supporting variable stretch is of practical interest for constrained applications, especially low-power devices operated by battery, due to the ability to flexibly trade communication overhead and level of integrity.In this work, we investigate this hypothesis with affirmative results. We present vCCM, a variable-stretch variant of the standard CCM and prove it is secure when used with variable stretch. We then experimentally measure the energy consumption of a real-world wireless sensor node when encrypting and sending messages with vCCM and CCM, respectively. Our projections show that the flexible trade of integrity level and ciphertext expansion can lead up to 21% overall energy consumption reduction in certain scenarios. As vCCM is obtained from the widely-used CCM by a black-box transformation, allowing any existing CCM implementations to be reused as-is, our results can be immediately put to use in practice. vCCM is all the more relevant because neither the NIST LWC project, nor any of the candidates give a consideration for the support of variable stretch and the related integrity-overhead trade-off.