bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of the Rs2923234 and Rs1049112 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of Salivary Acidic Proline-rich Protein on Dental Caries in Young Children: An Analytical Cross-sectional Molecular Study
Authors: Sameer Kadhim Maitha , Mohammed Ahlam Taha
Published: August 2023

Introduction: We aimed to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) to detect the Db allele and the rs2923234 and rs1049112 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the salivary acidic proline-rich proteins (PRPs) to determine their relationship with dental caries in young children. Methods: DNA was extracted from saliva samples of preschool children aged 3 to 5 years. PCR primers designed around exon 3 of the PRH1 locus yielded a 416-base product representing Db for gel electrophoresis and a 519-base product representing the rs2923234 and rs1049112 SNPs for Sanger sequencing. The data were analyzed using a logistic regression model and a multilayer perceptron artificial neural network. Results: Forty children with severe caries and 40 caries-free children completed the study. The frequency of the Db gene was 16.3% in the entire study group. The rs2923234 SNP was a marginally significant (P = 0.053) predictor for the dependent variable (caries-free or severe caries). However, the rs1049112 (P = 0.407) and the Db allele (P = 0.442) were not significant predictors. Conclusion: The rs29232334 SNP could be considered a potential genetic predictor for caries susceptibility.
The Influence of Dental Implant Roughness on Biofilm Formation: A Comprehensive Strategy
Authors: Franco Rocco , Rosa Alessio , Lupi Ettore , Capogreco Mario
Published: August 2023

Dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry, providing an effective solution for the replacement of missing teeth. However, the long-term success of dental implants can be compromised by the development of biofilms on their surfaces. Biofilms are complex microbial communities embedded in a self-produced extracellular matrix, and they play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various oral diseases, including peri-implantitis. This article aims to explore the relationship between dental implant roughness and biofilm formation, shedding light on the mechanisms by which surface characteristics influence microbial colonization and subsequent biofilm development. Understanding these interactions will aid in the development of improved implant surfaces and preventive strategies to enhance long-term implant success.
Characterization of disease-associated microbiota in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Li Zhongchao , Zhang Bo
Published: August 2023

Aims:

This study aimed to investigate the differences in the composition of microbial communities and related functions in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tumours and matched normal tissues were investigated.

Methods and Material:

Tumour tissues and matched normal samples were collected from 30 HCC patients. Genomic DNA was collected and subjected to sequencing of the V3 + V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene. The microbial community profiles and metabolic pathway predictions of the different groups were characterized and compared.

Results:

Tumour and adjacent tissues had similar microbiota compositions but differed in abundance. Proteobacteria and Firmicutes abundance decreased and Cyanobacteria and Acidobacteria abundance increased in the tumour tissue. The microbial community diversity was higher in the tumour tissues than in adjacent samples, with potentially more dominant taxa in the adjacent tissues, including Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria. Acidobacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Chloroflexi were the dominant microbes in tumour tissues. A total of 46 metabolic pathways were identified. Global and overview maps were the most abundant pathways, followed by carbohydrate metabolism, energy metabolism, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, and membrane transport. The top 50 most highly correlated microbial genera included Klebsiella, Rhodococcus, Ochrobactrum, and Azoarcus. Fonticella, Haloimpatiens, Brevibacterium, and Acidothermus were positively correlated with other microbial genera. The microbiota of adjacent tissues was more robust in the network analysis.

Conclusions:

This study revealed differences in microbial composition between HCC tumour tissues and normal tissues and differences in microbial abundance associated with different metabolic functions. Cyanobacteria, Proteobacteria, and Actinobacteria may play important roles in HCC.
Port-exposure management of totally implantable venous access ports: A case report
Authors: Liu Chunqin , Liu Xiaohua , Zhao Shunying , Li Weifeng
Published: August 2023

Totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAP) are widely utilized in chemotherapy, parenteral nutrition, and long-lasting intravenous therapy in cancer patients. However, port exposure occurs due to skin damage around the port. Thus, managing port exposure is of great importance; however, it is full of challenges. We reported two cases of port exposure due to TIVAP. In these two patients, the catheters were inserted into the internal jugular or axillary vein under local anesthesia and ultrasound guidance and were connected to the port implanted on the ipsilateral chest through the subcutaneous tunnel. Chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy were administered using these ports. During the treatment intermission, the ports of two patients were partially exposed. Hence, external fixation of the port exposure approach was utilized to successfully retain the TIVAP through collaborative discussion. These findings provide good references for the prevention and management of postoperative port-exposure complications associated with TIVAP in patients with cancer.
Ozone attenuates chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy via upregulating the AMPK-SOCS3 axis
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Tao , Zong Li-Juan , Jia Ru-Meng , Qin Xin-Miao , Ruan Shi-Rong , Lu Lin-Lin , Wang Ping , Hu Liang , Liu Wen-Tao , Yang Yang , Li Yan
Published: August 2023

Background:

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a severe adverse reaction to chemotherapeutics, which seriously affects the outcome of chemotherapy and patients’ quality of life. Although it is commonly seen, it lacks effective treatment. Our previous study found that ozone could alleviate neuropathic pain. Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) or Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) or tissue factor (TF)-mediated neuroinflammation and microcirculation disturbance is the main reason for CIPN. Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) 3 is an endogenous negative feedback regulator of inflammation via TLR4 inhibition.

Materials and Methods:

Oxaliplatin (L-OHP) was used to establish mice’s CIPN model. Nociceptive responses were assessed by observing the ICR mice’s incidence of foot regression in mechanical indentation response experiments. Cell signaling assays were performed by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The mouse leukemia cells of monocyte–macrophage line RAW 264.7 were cultured to investigate the effects of ozone administration on macrophage.

Results:

Ozone decreased the expression of TF in the blood and sciatic nerve. It upregulated the adenosine 5‘-monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-SOCS3 axis to relieve CIPN and inhibit TF expression in vivo. SOCS3 expression was induced by ozone to inhibit the p38/TF signaling in RAW 246.7 cells. Ozone also prevented L-OHP-induced sciatic nerve demyelination. Microglia activation was inhibited, and c-Fos and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) expression was decreased in the spinal dorsal horn via ozone.

Conclusions:

In this study, we demonstrated that ozone could alleviate CIPN by upregulating the AMPK-SOCS3 axis to inhibit TF expression, which is a potential treatment for CIPN.
Awareness of sudden infant death syndrome and its associated risk factors among Saudi mothers attending well-baby clinics at PHC, PSMMC, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Alanezi Saleh L. , Almusalam Yousef A. , Afify Aymen A.
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is a leading cause of infant mortality all over the world. Mortality due to SIDS can be averted by educating families and caretakers about safe practices for putting infants to sleep. However, the knowledge, attitude, and practices of mothers while putting the infant to sleep is a gray areas in literature.

Aims and Objectives:

The objectives of the study were to measure the knowledge and awareness about SIDS and its associated risk factors practiced among Saudi mothers attending well-baby clinics in Saudi Arabia to develop appropriate educational program-based interventions for safe practices of infant care.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was carried out among 385 mothers attending well-baby clinics of primary health care (PHC) and prince sultan military medical city (PSMMC) in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. Information was captured on sociodemographic characteristics, the health status of mothers and infants, knowledge, attitude, and practice followed by mothers while putting infants to sleep.

Results:

From a total number of 385 responses, 350 participants were eventually included in the final sample due to the incompletion of the questionnaire of 350 mothers; only 26% (n = 93) mothers had heard of SIDS. However, 259 mothers were willing to attend the awareness session. Only 94 mothers had knowledge as well as practicing the correct behavior of putting the infant to sleep on the back referred to as “good behavior concordant pairs.” Similarly, other good practices include not co-sharing a bed with the infant, removing pillows, blankets, and other wedged objects, using a pacifier, breastfeeding the infant during sleep, not using multiple quilts, not covering the infant’s head with a quilt, not using a head cap. The number of good behavior concordant pairs (in green) were 124, 38, 56, 98, 18, 117, and 68 respectively.

Conclusions:

The rate of knowledge and practice for good behavior regarding SIDS was low among Saudi mothers in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. SIDS-related deaths can be averted by improving the understanding of SIDS risk reduction practices among mothers by using health promotion strategies.
Assessing universal maternal health service coverage and their determinants in India: A multicentric cross-sectional study
Authors: Sharma Shantanu , Bhardwaj Aditya , Arora Kanishtha , Akhtar Faiyaz , Mehra Sunil
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Universal maternal health coverage (UHC) envisages access to quality healthcare services by pregnant and lactating women without any financial hardship. Our present study attempts to assess the UHC for maternal health services and their determinants, including access to quality antenatal care (ANC), quality postnatal care (PNC), and child immunization among the marginalized populations of India.

Methods:

It was a community-based cross-sectional study across five states of India among pregnant or lactating women. Quality ANC score was calculated using four indicators, including ANC registration month, attendance of four or more ANC visits, receiving at least one tetanus toxoid injection, and consumption of 100 iron-folic acid (IFA) tablets. Similarly, quality PNC care score was calculated using four indicators, including PNC within 48 h, breastfeeding initiation time, institutional delivery, and accessing conditional maternity benefit scheme. Logistic or generalized linear regression was used to depict associations depending on the outcome variables.

Results:

A total of 12,976 pregnant women’s and 18,061 lactating mothers’ data were analyzed. Illiterate women, women from below the poverty line, and rural areas had low-quality ANC and PNC scores compared with their counterparts. Marginalized women had lower odds of immunization of children and lower quality PNC scores than nonmarginalized.

Conclusions:

Sociodemographic factors, such as caste, education of women, area of residence, and economic status, are major determinants of quality ANC and PNC scores and immunization of children. Hence, interventionists ought to design community-based interventions that address the challenges in the uptake of health services.
A qualitative study on factors affecting adherence to antidiabetic medication in patients approaching a health center in an urban area
Authors: Kaur Paawanjot , Gomra Rozy , Girdhar Sangeeta , Sharma Sarit , Chaudhary Anurag
Published: August 2023

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors affecting adherence to antidiabetic medication among diabetic patients in India.

Setting and Design:

A qualitative study was conducted among 40 diabetic patients aged >30 years, on treatment for more than a year without any complications in the Urban Health Centre of Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India.

Materials and Methods:

A semistructured questionnaire was harnessed to congregate data by interviewing the patients for 30–40 min in person. The interviews were recorded in the form of audios by acquiring informed consent and transcribed verbatim. The factors were then divided into barriers and enablers which were further subdivided into themes and subthemes as a result of which four major themes were built including individual, social, organizational, and community levels. These major themes were further categorized into several subthemes to assess the nonadherence to antidiabetic medications.

Results:

The results of the interviews depicted that the lack of knowledge, financial problems, familial issues, misconceptions regarding the disease, and side effects of taking medications daily were the major altruist for nonadherence, whereas on the other hand, positive perception about the disease, family support, and getting medications on affordable prices by some health-care institutes played an important role in enabling medication adherence as about 50% patients were adherent to the medications. Moreover, various interventions were used to escort the patients regarding medication compliance and blood glucose level monitoring such as lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise), use of reminders for medication intake on time, encouraging them to visit health-care centers, or hospitals on time for regular check-ups and by educating them regarding the long-term effects of diabetes and its prevention.
Defeating diabetes in the desert: A community-based mHealth diabetes screening intervention in Jodhpur Rajasthan
Authors: Joshi Nitin K. , Arora Vikas , Purohit Anil , Lohra Abhishek , Joshi Vibha , Shih Ting , Harsh Jagdish
Published: August 2023

Background:

There is a paucity of demonstrated models for mHealth-based diabetes screening and coordinated care in India, especially in western Rajasthan, which is the part of Thar desert.

Materials and Methods:

JSPH collaboratively developed and implemented an easy-to-use, noninvasive, mobile phone-based screening interview, to identify adults at high risk for diabetes. The high risk for diabetes was defined using multiple clinical and epidemiologic criteria, all based on the evidence for India and globally. Since participants above 35 years or older were only considered in the screening, the application was designed to categorize the participants as high and low risk.

Results:

Out of 4000 screened participants, the percentage of males and females were 51% and 50%, respectively. Participants found to be at high risk and low risk were n = 3600 (90%) and 400 (10%). The mean age of high- and low-risk participants was 52.2 (+12.8) and 36.2 (+4.2), respectively. Of the 3600 high-risk individuals who have been given a follow-up interview, 90.50% of high-risk individuals obtained diabetes testing, and of these, 65.67% had a written report showing they test positive for diabetes or prediabetes, requiring ongoing clinical care.

Conclusions:

JSPH mHealth application provided a novel noninvasive way to better identify those at high diabetes risk in the community and demonstrated how to optimize the use of mobile health methods in diabetes prevention and care services.
Pyomyositis involving the scapular muscles: A case series
Authors: Dharmshaktu Ganesh S. , Dharmshaktu Ishwar S. , Pangtey Tanuja
Published: August 2023

Pyomyositis or tropical pyomyositis is an uncommon infection of skeletal muscle that may be primary or secondary. Primary type has bacterial aetiology, and Staphylococcus aureus is associated in most cases. The diagnosis requires high index of suspicion and careful assessment of radiological investigations. Diagnosis often requires magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for better delineation of the disease process, associated site involvement and exclusion of related conditions. Evacuation of pus coupled with appropriate antibiotic therapy is the mainstay and curative in most cases. Caution, however, is required due to increased morbidity, protracted course of recovery and mortality in few cases. The association with comorbidities including immunocompromised status compounds the problem. We describe our experience with this condition in a series of five cases (four male and one female) with diverse involvement of scapular muscle. All cases had primary pyomyositis except one case secondary to shoulder joint tuberculosis. Right side was involved in three and left in two cases. Infraspinatus was commonly involved, and one case had extensive involvement around scapula. All cases were managed by one or multiple aspiration, except one managed with open surgical drainage. The outcome was good in all cases with no recurrence or complication noted in their respective follow-up. Primary care centres may play important role in the early diagnosis of this condition with clinical evaluation and judicious use of imaging. Cases with severe involvement or those requiring advanced procedures may be referred to higher centres as per the requirement. Most of the times, timely diagnosis, antibiotic therapy and drainage of the pus is required and may also be performed in the primary care level through a standard protocol.
Clinical and radiological efficacy of single-dose intra-articular high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Babu Anjana , Channaveera Chethan , Gupta Ajay , Mittal Mahesh K. , Johnson Deepthi S.
Published: August 2023

Context:

While visco-supplementation is being used for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (OA), the published reports vary widely in benefits afforded by this treatment. It was therefore proposed to assess the objective parameters along with subjective outcomes.

Aims:

Our study assessed the radiological and clinical efficacy of single-dose high-molecular-weight intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HMW-IAHA) injection in knee OA.

Settings and Design:

This interventional cohort study was conducted in a calculated sample size of 44 patients with knee OA.

Materials and Methods:

Visual analog scale (VAS) and knee OA and outcome score (KOOS) were used for clinical assessment, and whole organ magnetic resonance imaging score (WORMS) for radiological assessment. The subjects were given a single dose of HMW-IAHA injection, 90 mg/3 ml, and were assessed on day 0 and day 90.

Statistical Analysis:

Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used.

Results:

At the day 90 follow-up, there was an improvement in mean ± standard deviation values of VAS score (day 0: 8.53 ± 0.81, day 90: 5.97 ± 0.87), KOOS score (day 0: 27.33 ± 15.18, day 90: 57.26 ± 14.26), and the cartilage signal and morphology in the medial femorotibial joint (day 0: 11.02 ± 6.26 and day 90: 10.91 ± 6.22) and patellofemoral joint (day 0: 10.35 ± 4.36 and day 90: 10.28 ± 4.39) compartments. There was a decrease in synovitis score from 2.3 ± 1.61 to 1.3 ± 1.3 in the medial femorotibial joint compartment and total WORMS score (day 0: 66.57 ± 36.06, day 90: 65.14 ± 35.62).

Conclusions:

A single dose of intra-articular injection with high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid produces improvement in the clinical symptoms and quality of life as well as is effective in maintaining the articular cartilage integrity and reducing synovial inflammation.
Impact of concomitant gastroesophageal reflux disease symptomology on prognosis and pulmonary function of chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Authors: Elkhatib Wiaam Y. , Helgeson Scott A. , Baig Hassan Z. , Lee Augustine S.
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives:

Comorbid risk factors in chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP) are poorly characterised. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is linked to interstitial lung diseases like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), but its association and treatment in CHP is less understood. This study aims to understand the role and prevalence of GERD in CHP, plus the effect of GERD treatment on lung function and mortality.

Methods:

A tertiary referral centre panel was retrospectively reviewed for 214 patients diagnosed with CHP based on clinical history, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid analysis, imaging and histopathology. GERD diagnostic criteria included symptomology, acid suppressive therapy use and diagnostic testing. CHP patients with GERD (n = 89) and without GERD (n = 125) were compared via descriptive statistical analysis. Pulmonary function, GERD diagnosis plus treatment and other comorbidities were evaluated against CHP outcomes.

Results:

Respective differences between diagnosis and study termination dates in the GERD population versus without GERD for functional vital capacity (FVC) were − 1 L vs − 2.5 L, diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) were − 2 mL/min/mmHg versus − 1 mL/min/mmHg, per cent alive at the time of study 88% versus 81%, median date of survival 574.5 versus 850 and supplemental oxygen requirement 41% versus 37%. GERD prevalence was higher in CHP patients relative to the general population. No statistical significance was found between survival curves, oxygen requirement, smoking history, FVC, or DLCO.

Conclusions:

GERD could be a harmful comorbidity in CHP though may not necessarily affect survival or functional outcomes. This aligns with previous IPF studies, though remains controversial. Further research is needed regarding this association and treatment benefit.
Impact of HRCT pattern on six-minute walk test in patients with interstitial lung disease—An observational study
Authors: Saxena Puneet , Singh Itishree , Kumar Abhishek , Kartik S , Malik Virender , Tiwari Saurabh , Akhil KR , Pattanayak Somali , Velangi Vaibhavi G. , Jain Harsh
Published: August 2023

Background:

Forced vital capacity (FVC) and six-minute walk distance (6MWD) are robust markers in interstitial lung diseases (ILD) to assess severity and prognosis. It is unknown whether high-resolution computed tomography pattern has any independent effect on the exercise capacity in ILD. We compared six-minute walk test (6MWT) parameters between usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) and non-UIP ILD after adjusting for FVC.

Methods:

Data from a tertiary care ILD clinic were retrospectively analysed. Based on HRCT, patients were classified as UIP and non-UIP. 6MWT parameters and FVC were recorded for enrolled patients. 6MWD, distance-saturation product (DSP) and exertional desaturation were compared between UIP and non-UIP, using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with per cent predicted FVC as covariate. Patients were grouped as mild (≥70%), moderate (51%–69%) and severe (≤50%) based on FVC severity.

Results:

Out of 169 patients enrolled, only patients with all three data points: spirometry, 6MWT and HRCT were included in the analysis (n = 139). UIP group comprised 56 (40.3%), while non-UIP group had 83 (59.7%) patients. More females and lesser smokers were present in non-UIP group. Mean predicted FVC% was similar between the two HRCT groups (P = 0.611) and had a statistically significant, though very weak to weak correlation with 6MWT parameters {6MWD (r = 0.138); pred 6MWD% (r = 0.170); desaturation (r = -0.227); DSP index (r = 0.166)}. Analysis of covariance showed no statistically significant difference in the 6MWT parameters between UIP and non-UIP groups for similar FVC levels.

Conclusion:

For a similar level of lung function, exercise capacity was similar for patients with UIP and non-UIP pattern ILD.
A complete spectrum of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung deceptive clinical presentations and histological surprises; a single institutional study from a tertiary care hospital in North India
Authors: Walvir Nazia Manzoor , Makhdoomi Rumana , Abeer Inara , Ganaie Farooq , Maqsood Shadab
Published: August 2023

Background:

Congenital Cystic Adenomatoid Malformations (CCAM) are rare congenital anomalies of the lungs characterised by bronchopulmonary foregut malformations due to a sudden arrest in the development of the bronchial tree in the first trimester of the gestational period.

Aim:

The present study was aimed to describe the clinical and histopathological profiles of the patients and study patient outcomes after 1 year of surgical resection.

Methods:

All patients diagnosed with CCAM by histological examination of tissue obtained on surgical resection during the study period were included in the study. Data, such as patient demographics and clinical, radiological and histopathological findings, were recorded, and follow-up information was taken on OPD follow-up till 1 year after surgery regarding respiratory infections, haemoptysis or mortality.

Results:

Out of 21 patients, 11 were female and included in the study between the ages of 1 month and 32 years, with >50% younger than 2 years. Most patients in the study had recurrent pneumonia, with difficulty in breathing being the second most common presenting complaint. All patients had undergone computed tomography (CT) of the lungs, which was able to diagnose cystic lesions accurately in >80% of cases. Histologically, all cases were classified based on recent Strocker’s classification, and Type 1 was the most commonly observed with 13 cases, followed by Type 2 in five and Type 3 in three patients. There was no evidence of malignant transformation in any of the cases. There was 100% survival at the end of 1 year, with six patients having respiratory infections and none of the patients getting hospitalised over 1 year after surgery.

Conclusion:

CCAM is a rare congenital anomaly associated with significant morbidity and may present at any age. It can be histologically classified into three subtypes, with Type 1 being the most common. Early surgical management is mandatory to prevent complications such as recurrent infections, respiratory distress, pneumothorax, lung abscess and malignant transformation. All patients included in the study had undergone surgical resection, and there was 100% survival at 1-year follow-up.
Association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D and lung function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC) in children and adults with asthma: A systematic review
Authors: Abi-Ayad Meryem , Nedjar Imane , Chabni Nafissa
Published: August 2023

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that poses significant individual, social, financial and healthcare burdens. Physicians and researchers have recommended 25-hydroxy vitamin D supplementation, in combination with prescribed medication, as a potential means of reducing asthma severity. This systematic review focuses on the association between 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels and lung function in both children and adults with asthma. We identified published work by searching MEDLINE via PubMed, using regular search terms related to 25-hydroxy vitamin D and asthma. Fourteen studies were screened out of 643 eligible citations from MEDLINE research that involved 65 children and 951 adults. A strong positive association was observed in four studies, whereas five showed a moderate association, and two had no correlation. The majority of studies found a negative correlation between 25-hydroxy vitamin D deficiency and mild, uncontrolled and partly controlled asthma. 25-hydroxy vitamin D 25 OH values were below 20 ng/ml in the majority of studies, and those with uncontrolled severe asthma showed the lowest values.
Safety, utility and clinical efficacy of cryobiopsy of lung in paediatric population—A single centre experience
Authors: Chandra Tejaswi , Srikanta J. T , Madhusudan Manoj , Mohite Kaustubh , Arigela Karthik
Published: August 2023

Background:

Surgical lung biopsy (SLB) or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) has been the traditional gold standard modality for diagnosing paediatric interstitial lung diseases. Cryobiopsy of the lung has recently been shown to be a novel technique with very good sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of various interstitial lung disorders in adults. Although there are a few case reports of the same in children, pediatric cryo lung biopsies are rarely performed due to the lack of the necessary equipment and the lack of expertise.

Methods:

A retrospective single-centre study was conducted with twelve consecutive children with diffuse parenchymal lung disease diagnosed both clinically and on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) of the chest which were included in the study between October 2020 and September 2022 to measure the diagnostic yield and safety of the procedure. The site from where cryobiopsy was to be done was chosen after a multidisciplinary meeting with the paediatric radiologist.

Results:

Twelve children (eight males and four females) were included in the study who underwent a cryobiopsy in the duration of two years. The mean age of the cases involved was 8 years and 3 months. With the youngest and oldest being 12 days and 15 years, respectively, all children underwent cryobiopsy as mentioned above. Diagnostic yield was achieved in 92% of cases.

Conclusion:

Cryobiopsy is a valuable diagnostic tool in childhood interstitial lung diseases, which offers a less invasive option for obtaining lung tissue samples with a better yield which can aid in accurate diagnosis, a good safety profile and a shorter hospital stay. Our study emphasizes that in trained centres, TBCB is a safe, effective and less invasive way to obtain tissue diagnosis in children with ChILD.
Primary pulmonary botryomycosis. Report of a case and literature review
Authors: Benavides-Huerto Miguel A. , Mier-Briseño Antonio , Lagunas-Rangel Francisco A.
Published: August 2023

Botryomycosis is a rare chronic suppurative infection characterised by a granulomatous inflammatory response to bacterial pathogens. Among the two forms, the visceral form is an even rarer finding that mainly affects the lungs and whose main causative agents are Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, although many other non-filamentous bacteria have been identified. Here, we present a case of primary pulmonary botryomycosis, which to our knowledge is the first case of this type reported in Mexico. In addition, we review the 18 cases of primary pulmonary botryomycosis reported in the literature, where we focus on evaluating the clinical characteristics, predisposing factors, causative agents and treatments used in these patients. This helps physicians to improve the differential diagnosis of this disease.
Clinico-cytological Analysis of Conjunctiva and Ocular Surface Symptoms of Patients on Topical Anti-glaucoma Medications Attending Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Aribaba Olufisayo Temitayo , Adenekan Olusesan Adetunji , Alabi Adegboyega Sunday , Aina Mobolaji Taiwo , Anunobi Charles Chidozie , Onakoya Adeola Olukorede
Published: August 2023

Background:

The long-term use of topical anti-glaucoma medications is often associated with ocular surface toxicity that can affect the patient’s drug compliance and quality of life. This study assessed the effect of these medications, using cytological changes of the conjunctiva and ocular surface symptoms.

Materials and Methods:

This was a clinic-based, case–control study that was conducted at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital that compared glaucoma patients on topical medications with age–sex-matched controls. The controls were non-glaucoma patients, who were not on any topical ocular medications at least 6 months prior to the study. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire was used to assess ocular surface symptoms. Schirmer’s I test, tear film break-up time (TBUT) test and corneal fluorescein staining of the ocular surface were used for ocular surface disease (OSD) assessment and conjunctival impression cytology (CIC) for histological assessment and grading.

Results:

Six hundred and ninety-six eyes of 348 respondents, 174 cases and 174 controls, were assessed for OSD. The mean ages of the case and control groups were 56.3 ± 12.9 years and 55.5 ± 13.2 years, respectively, with no statistical difference (P = 0.589). All ocular parameters assessed were significantly abnormal in the case group compared to the control group. The use of topical anti-glaucoma medications was significantly associated with abnormal TBUT (P < 0.001), Schirmer’s test (P < 0.001), ocular surface staining (P < 0.001), CIC (P < 0.001) and OSDI scores (P = 0.001). A significant association was seen between abnormal TBUT and the number of medications (P = 0.044, odds ratio [OR] =0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.44–1.14), between abnormal ocular surface staining and duration of anti-glaucoma medications usage (P = 0.0104, OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.04–1.43) and between abnormal CIC and the duration of anti-glaucoma medications (P = 0.0007, OR = 0.7, 95% CI: 0.59–0.86).

Conclusion:

The study demonstrates that prolonged use of topical anti-glaucoma medications may be associated with damage to the ocular surface structures.
COVID-19 in 16 West African Countries: An Assessment of the Epidemiology and Genetic Diversity of SARS-CoV-2 after Four Epidemic Waves
Authors: Ndiaye Anna Julienne Selbé , Beye Mamadou , Sow Aissatou , Lo Gora , Padane Abdou , Sokhna Cheikh , Kane Coumba Touré , Colson Philippe , Fenollar Florence , Mboup Souleymane , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: August 2023

West Africa faced the COVID-19 pandemic in early March 2020 and, as of March 31, 2022, had more than 900,000 confirmed cases and more than 12,000 deaths. During this period, SARS-CoV-2 genomes evolved genetically, resulting in the emergence of distinct lineages. This review was conducted to provide the epidemiological profile of COVID-19, the mutational profile of SARS-CoV-2, and the dynamics of its lineages in the 16 west African countries by analyzing data from 33 studies and seven situation reports. For a more complete representation of the epidemiology and genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2, we used reliable public data in addition to eligible studies. As of March 31, 2022, the 16 west African countries experienced four epidemic waves with variable intensities. Higher mortality was noted during the third wave with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 1.9%. After these four epidemic waves, Liberia recorded the highest CFR (4.0%), whereas Benin had the lowest CFR (0.6%). Through mutational analysis, a high genetic heterogeneity of the genomes was observed, with a predominance of mutations in the spike protein. From this high mutational rate, different lineages emerged. Our analysis of the evolutionary diversity allowed us to count 205 lineages circulating in west Africa. This study has provided a good representation of the mutational profile and the prevalence of SARS CoV-2 lineages beyond the knowledge of the global epidemiology of the 16 African countries.
Application of a One-Dimensional Dilution and Evaporation Lubricant Oil Model to Predict Oil Evaporation under Different Engine Operative Conditions Considering a Large Hydrogen-Fuelled Engine
Authors: De Renzis Edoardo , Mariani Valerio , Bianchi Gian Marco , Falfari Stefania , Cazzoli Giulio
Published: August 2023

The increasing environmental concern is leading to the need for innovation in the field of internal combustion engines, in order to reduce the carbon footprint. In this context, hydrogen is a possible mid-term solution to be used both in conventional-like internal combustion engines and in fuel cells (for hybridization purposes), thus, hydrogen combustion characteristics must be considered. In particular, the flame of a hydrogen combustion is less subjected to the quenching effect caused by the engine walls in the combustion chamber. Thus, the significant heating up of the thin lubricant layer upon the cylinder liner may lead to its evaporation, possibly and negatively affecting the combustion process, soot production. The authors propose an analysis which aims to address the behavior of different typical engine oils, (SAE0W30, SAE5W30, SAE5W40) under engine thermo-physical conditions considering a large hydrogen-fuelled engine. The operative conditions are obtained by means of simulations through a zero-dimensional engine model in OpenWAM environment. The lubricant oils composition and properties are defined by means of a statistical interference-based optimization approach which identifies the most proper mixture of heavy hydrocarbons as a surrogate of real oils. Then, the mixture is implemented in an in-house developed heat and mass transfer one-dimensional model which accounts for the lubricant oil evaporation and the mutual diffusion between the oil surrogate components. This work aims to test and analyze the response of different lubricant oils to heating and evaporation processes during the compression and combustion stroke of a hydrogen-fuelled internal combustion engine. The behaviour and the properties evolution during the compression and part of the expansion strokes of different lubricant oils in two different engine operative conditions are captured and discussed.
Effect of Start of Injection in a Hydrogen-Fueled DISI Engine: Experimental and Numerical Investigation
Authors: Mortellaro Fabio Santi , Silvestri Nicola , Zaffino Francesco , Medda Massimo , D'Elia Matteo , Viswanathan Veeraraghavan , Rothbauer Rainer
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, hydrogen is one the most interesting candidates for fuel for internal combustion engines as an alternative to fossil fuels, in order to reduce GHG emissions.

In this paper, the authors have, firstly carried out an experimental investigation on a single-cylinder engine fueled with hydrogen and equipped with a high-pressure direct injector. The experimental campaign shows that the Start of Injection (SOI) has a remarkable effect on the mixture combustion characteristics.

Secondly, the software CONVERGE was used to set up a comprehensive 3D CFD model to investigate these engine operating conditions, starting from an injector validation in a constant volume vessel and then simulating the engine cycle including injection, combustion and knock modeling. The combustion model makes use of detailed chemistry to predict the laminar flame speed and auto-ignition delay of the mixture.

The simulations show a remarkable difference in terms of mixture homogeneity between the three cases. Moreover, the predicted pressure inside the cylinder during the combustion phase is in agreement with experimental pressure traces.
An MPC-Based Strategy for Managing Energy in Hybrid Powertrains of Fast Boats
Authors: Tordela Ciro , Fornaro Enrico
Published: August 2023

In the shipbuilding industry, the employment of hybrid propulsion systems is increasingly common on-board vessels for making more eco-sustainable boat traffic in marine waters. Energy management systems are required to ensure the culling of fuel consumption and the preservation of batteries by monitoring their state of charge in hybrid powertrains, coupled with the possibility of performing the sea path desired by a driver unit. A Model Predictive Control (MPC) supervisor is proposed in the present work for managing a marine parallel-hybrid propulsion system in terms of handling the state of charge of batteries and the driving cycle imposed by the boat driver. Specifically, the MPC is employed to avoid excessive electric energy consumption observable as a reduced loss in terms of the state of charge of batteries by selecting the best amount of command torques related to two electric motors and one internal combustion engine of the considered powertrain. A lumped parameters model of a fast boat coupled with map-based motors belonging to the considered hybrid propulsion system is employed for making tests functional to evaluate the performance of the proposed supervisor based on an MPC in terms of energy management capabilities. The proposed approach can be employed for preliminary design purposes of hybrid propulsion systems for naval applications. Specifically, two propulsors featured by different hybridization factors are compared, demonstrating the possibility of recharging batteries only for a lower hybridization factor based on the chosen waterway. The low computational load related to the proposed MPC demonstrates its suitability to manage naval hybrid propulsion systems in real-time. Therefore, this type of supervisor can be included in electronic control units of fast boats.
An Energy Management Strategy for Aeronautical Hybrid Propulsion Systems Based on an MPC Supervisor
Authors: Fornaro Enrico , Tordela Ciro
Published: August 2023

In the last decades, the requirement related to the reduction of energy waste has been focused on the aeronautical field for decreasing CO2 emissions in propulsion systems, coupled with the possibility of improving their ecological sustainability. Performance of hybrid electric aircraft are affected by the sizes and weights of propulsion systems typically constituted of internal combustion engines and electric motors. Therefore, the correct design of propulsive architectures is fundamental to ensure a desired state of charge target level of batteries compliant with the flight plan provided by a driver unit. A Linear Time Variant Model Predictive Control (LTV-MPC) strategy for energy management purposes of an aeronautical hybrid powertrain is proposed in the present work. The MPC, designed as a supervisor, provides the best trade-off between command torques of motors belonging to a parallel-hybrid propulsion system to guarantee the final state of charge as close as possible to the initial one. Furthermore, the MPC ensures the following of the target flight plan, typically called mission, imposed by the driver. A lumped parameters dynamical model of an 8-seat aircraft is presented for testing the capability of the proposed LTV-MPC to manage a hybrid powertrain composed of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor described by maps. The proposed LTV-MPC supervisor is suitable to be employed in the aeronautical field to handle, in real-time, hybrid propulsion systems thanks to its reduced computational effort coupled with its capability to reduce CO2 emissions.
Performance Assessment of a Model-Based Combustion Control System to Decrease the Brake Specific Fuel Consumption
Authors: Shethia Fenil Panalal , Mecagni Jacopo , Brusa Alessandro , Cavina Nicolo , Corti Enrico
Published: August 2023

The challenge of industrial carbon footprint reduction is led by the engine manufacturers that are developing new technologies and fuels to lower CO2 emissions. Although the deployment of relevant investments for the development of battery electric vehicles, diesel, and gasoline cars are still widely used, especially for their longer operating range, faster refueling, and lower cost. For this reason, more efficient traditional internal combustion engines can guide the transition towards new propulsion systems.

In this document, the innovative piston damage and exhaust gas temperature models previously developed by the authors are reversed and coupled to manage the combustion process, increasing the overall energy conversion efficiency. The instantaneous piston erosion and the exhaust gas temperature at the turbine inlet are evaluated according to the models’ estimation which manages both the spark advance, and the target lambda. In the first part of the work, the exhaust gas temperature model is reversed and converted into a control function which is then implemented in a piston damage-based, spark advance controller. This controller targets the piston erosion speed (i.e., the cumulative erosion at the end of the engine life), using more aggressive calibrations. This strategy significantly increases the combustion efficiency and lowers the exhaust gas temperature under knock-limited operating conditions. Furthermore, this decrease in exhaust gas temperature is converted into lowering the fuel enrichment with respect to the production calibrations.

In the last part of the work, the complete controller is validated for both the transient and steady-state conditions, reproducing a real vehicle maneuver at the engine test bench. The results demonstrate that the combination of an accurate estimation of the damage induced by knock and the value of the exhaust gas temperature allows to reduce the brake specific fuel consumption by up to 25%. Moreover, the stoichiometric area of the engine operating range is extended by 20%.
Correlation of Oil Originating Particle Emissions and Knock in a PFI HD SI Engine Fueled with Methanol
Authors: Ainouz Filip , Adlercreutz Ludvig , Cronhjort Andreas , Stenlaas Ola
Published: August 2023

A viable option to reduce global warming related to internal combustion engines is to use renewable fuels, for example methanol. However, the risk of knocking combustion limits the achievable efficiency of SI engines. Hence, most high load operation is run at sub-optimal conditions to suppress knock. Normally the fuel is a limiting factor, however when running on high octane fuels such as methanol, other factors also become important. For example, oil droplets entering the combustion chamber have the possibility to locally impact both temperature and chemical composition. This may create spots with reduced octane number, hence making the engine more prone to knock. Previous research has confirmed a connection between oil droplets in the combustion chamber and knock. Furthermore, previous research has confirmed a connection between oil droplets in the combustion chamber and exhaust particle emissions. However, the co-variation between oil originating particle emissions and knock has not been investigated. The current study examines the connection between knock and particle number in the exhaust, when running on fuel with low soot production. A single cylinder spark ignited heavy-duty engine was used. It was equipped with port fuel injection and fueled with methanol, which produces very little soot at lambda 1. Consequently, the measured exhaust particle numbers were assumed to origin essentially from engine oil. Three grades of oil, in combination with three piston ring configurations, were used to vary the amount of oil entering the combustion chamber. Results from knock limited operation at both medium and high engine load showed that an increased number of particles in the exhaust was associated with an increased likelihood of knock. The authors find the hypothesis that an increase in particle number correlates with an increase in auto-ignition tendency to be confirmed.
Comparison of the Performance and Operation Limits of an S.I. Engine Fueled with Neat Ammonia and Hydrogen-Ammonia Blends
Authors: D'Antuono Gabriele , Lanni Davide , Galloni Enzo , Fontana Gustavo
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, the interest in carbon free fuels for internal combustion engines has increased due to the high levels of CO2 in the atmosphere. In particular, ammonia can be used either as a neat fuel, either as an energy carrier for hydrogen production. Adding hydrogen to ammonia is important in order to improve the combustion characteristics of this fuel, like the laminar flame speed. In this paper, the authors investigated the operation limits of a light duty spark ignition engine fueled by neat ammonia and by an ammonia-hydrogen blend (85% of ammonia by volume). The whole maps of the engine powered by the considered fuel mixtures have been obtained by means of 1-D simulations taking into account several operating constraints. The addition of hydrogen to ammonia extends the exploitable region of the engine. In particular, if the engine is powered by neat ammonia, the maximum reachable engine speed is 3000 rpm, while considering the blend, it can be extended up to 5000 rpm. At low load operations the blend still allows to explore a wider region with respect to pure ammonia. Finally, up to 3000 rpm, the engine fueled with the ammonia-hydrogen blend can be properly regulated.