bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Behaviour of Surface Wear and Friction for a Pure Aluminium Casting Product Using Permanent Mould
Authors: Chakravarti Samir , Sen Swarnendu
Published: April 2023

Aluminium is a popular choice for structural applications because of its low weight, large specific strength, excellent heat transmission capabilities, and mostly due to its strength-to-weight ratio being high. Any desired shape or form of aluminium may be manufactured using permanent mould casting operation. However, porosity arises as a typical defect where pores cause an increase in surface roughness, which in turn increases wear and friction of the surface and reduces material strength. A variety of porous characteristics on the surface are formed in the casting process by regulating casting pouring parameters like the temperature and velocity of pouring. The presented research establishes a better knowledge of the relationship between the wear and frictional behaviour with temperature and velocity of pouring. In this context, the casting process has been done by creating a three-dimensional model by Ansys Fluent. Observations reveal that the frictional and wear behaviour of pure aluminium increases with the temperature of pouring and reduces with the velocity of pouring.
Distribution of Diagnostic Radiological Imaging Facilities in Public Hospitals in the Central Province of Sri Lanka
Authors: Udayangani Dinusha , Jayasekara Udeni M. , Weerakoon Bimali S.
Published: April 2023

No abstract available
Investigation of the Use of Medicinal Plants and Natural Products for COVID-19 Prevention and Respiratory Symptoms Treatment during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Sri Lanka
Authors: Uyangoda Navanjana T. P. , Gamagedara Tharalamini P. , Suraweera Ruwani K. , Nawarathna Lakshika S.
Published: April 2023

Background: With the lack of specific treatment against COVID-19, Sri Lankans were seeking alternative treatment options such as herbal medicines as preventive measures and treatment options against COVID-19. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of such alternative treatment options usage by Sri Lankans during the pandemic and to assess the self-perceived effectiveness and adverse effects of herbal medicines from the participants’ perception. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among the general public. Data was collected using a questionnaire. A total of 804 participants were included in the study. Descriptive analysis was performed for all variables. A Chi-square test was performed to determine the association between the studied variables. Results: Among the participants, 90.4% reported using herbal medicines as preventive measures against COVID-19, and 86.7% used them to treat respiratory symptoms. Coriander and ginger were the most commonly used medicinal plants as preventives and in the treatment of respiratory symptoms. These herbs were perceived to be effective in alleviating respiratory symptoms by more than 85% of their users. A minority of the consumers (15.4%) experienced adverse effects associated with the use of herbal medicines as preventive measures. The use of herbal medicines as preventive measures was associated with the participant's age (p = 0.032) and education level (p <0.001). Conclusion: The study highlights the perceived effectiveness of some medicinal herbs in treating respiratory symptoms and recommends future research to isolate the compounds with potential pharmacological effects and conduct clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of the most commonly used plants.
Effect of COVID-19 and sociocultural milieu on the psychopathology of mental health disorders
Authors: Maggu Gaurav , Jaishy Rajon , Srivastava Mona , Chaudhury Suprakash , Saldanha Daniel , Sharma Sandeep
Published: April 2023

Background:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has posed a remarkable threat to mental health all around the world. This pandemic has increased the incidence of common as well as severe mental illness (SMI) all around the world.

Materials and Methods:

We report 10 cases presenting to the psychiatric outpatient department (OPD) of Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, from August to October 2020. They were either referred by other departments (3 patients) or came primarily to psychiatric OPD (7).

Results:

Five out of these 10 cases presented with predominant psychotic features; 3 cases had predominant obsessive–compulsive features; and 1 case was of dissociative trance possession.

Conclusion:

COVID-19 can affect the psychopathology of both types of patients either with preexisting mental illness as well as new-onset SMI.
Association of childhood psychological trauma with eating disorders in undergraduate medical students
Authors: Samudra Madhura , Davis Supriya , Gupta Nishtha , Chaudhury Suprakash , Saldanha Daniel
Published: April 2023

Aim:

The aim of the study was to study the association of childhood psychological trauma with eating disorders (EDs) and to assess and compare the relationship with food, concerns about weight gain, and restrictive or compensatory practices in male and female undergraduate medical students.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional, analytical study was performed in a Tertiary Care Medical College and Research Hospital in a suburban area of India. After obtaining ethical clearance, 100 final-year undergraduate students were included in the study with their informed consent. Self-made questionnaire, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Stirling ED Scale with Disordered Eating Attitude Scale were used. Spearman's correlation coefficient (Rho) was calculated.

Results:

There was a significant correlation of history of childhood psychological trauma in the form of emotional abuse, emotional neglect or physical abuse and physical neglect with higher prevalence of disordered eating behaviors and relationship with food, concern about weight gain, and compensatory practices. No significant relationship was found in a history of sexual abuse.

Conclusion:

The importance of a healthy psychosocial upbringing and nurturing by parents to prevent development of psychiatric comorbidities is an important finding in this study.
Risk factors of postpartum depression
Authors: Dubey Amresh , Chatterjee Kaushik , Chauhan Vinay Singh , Sharma Rachit , Dangi Ankit , Adhvaryu Arka
Published: April 2023

Background:

Postpartum depression (PPD) is one of the most common puerperal psychiatric illnesses impairing quality of life and mental health of the mother and also the child.

Aim:

The aim is to study the prevalence and risk factors of PPD.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional observational study was done on a sample of 295 mothers who delivered and were followed up at a tertiary care hospital. The mothers were administered Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and demographic, psychosocial, and clinical data were collected.

Results:

The age of the participant mothers ranged from 18 to 35 years and age at marriage ranged from 21 to 24 years. In most of the mothers, the parity was 2 and they had institutional vaginal delivery. The prevalence of PPD in this population of mothers was 30.84%. The factors that had a statistically significant association with PPD included: lower educational status of mother, lower family income, rural place of residence, higher parity, preterm delivery, and adverse events in newborn.

Conclusion:

PPD is a common mental health problem in the postpartum period. Sociodemographic factors such as low educational status of mothers, rural population, and low monthly family income were found to be associated with PPD. Primipara status, preterm delivery, and adverse events in newborn were also significantly associated.
Induced delusional disorder
Authors: Shailaja B. , Gupta Nishtha , Davis Supriya , Dhamija Sana , Chaudhury Suprakash
Published: April 2023

Phenomenon of induced delusional disorder has a relatively long, controversial history of conceptualization. It is a rare entity and goes undiagnosed mostly as only the primary partner is brought to clinical attention. We present a case series of induced delusional disorder with different presentations. For effective management, understanding the dynamics of relationship shared by the partners and addressing the biopsychosocial factors are crucial. Failure to adhere to treatment poses additional challenge in these cases.
Impact, role, and contribution of family in the mental health of industrial workers
Authors: Avasthi Ajit , Sahoo Swapnajeet
Published: April 2023

The mental health of the worker population has been given special focus in the last few decades, mostly due to workplace stress and its related consequences on productivity and management. The impact of poor mental health of industrial workers on their families remains largely unexplored. Families have been found to get affected due to issues related to work-family and family-work conflict. Balancing between work and family has been found to be the major source of stress in industrial workers leading to a multitude of mental health issues and substance addiction. Families play a significant role in identifying the mental health problems in their working members and also can act as a bridge between the worker and the organization/industry in facilitating mental health care. The family members play key roles in providing significant support and care to persons suffering from serious mental illness/psychological distress. The focus of holistic management of mental health issues in industrial workers should include proper psycho-education of family members and taking into consideration their mental health needs. In this brief communication, we had tried to highlight the key issues pertaining to the impact, role, and contribution of family in the mental health of industrial workers.
Complex psychological trauma
Authors: Singh Jaspreet , Prakash Jyoti , Yadav Prateek , Bharti Abhishek , Chatterjee Kaushik
Published: April 2023

Complex psychological trauma is more complicated and pervasive than the isolated traumatic event, occurring mainly in vulnerable periods resulting in severe compromise of childhood development. It causes increased activation of the survival-focused brain leading to alterations in brain structure and function. It has an impact on behavioral, biological, and cognitive domains resulting in sequelae of complex trauma exposure. The assessment of complex trauma is demanding as the clinician is required to be patient, transparent, noncoercive, and corroborative in approach. The management depends on a good therapist-client alliance, appropriate evidence-based treatment models and emerging pharmacotherapy for treatment as well as prevention.
Catatonia
Authors: Davis Supriya , Chag Jwalant , Rohatgi Salesh , Chaudhury Suprakash , Saldanha Daniel
Published: April 2023

Wilson's disease (WD) or hepatolenticular degeneration is a rare inherited disorder of copper metabolism affecting both the liver and the central nervous system. Psychiatric manifestations may precede neurological signs in the early stages of WD, but catatonia is a rare presentation. Here, we report a case of an 18-year-old girl who presented to the psychiatry outpatient department with catatonia. She was subsequently diagnosed to have WD. Her symptoms improved on treatment with trientine, trihexyphenidyl, zinc acetate, and benzodiazepine.
Diverse psychiatric presentation associated with child sexual abuse
Authors: Sahu Samiksha , Chaudhury Suprakash , Pathak Vinayak , Singh Ichpreet , Mujawar Swaleha , Arya Aakanksha , Mishra Abha , Sharma Neelu , Garg Garima
Published: April 2023

Child sexual abuse (CSA) occurs when a person involves the child in sexual activities for his/her sexual gratification, commercial gain, or both. We report a series of 12 cases of CSA, who presented to the psychiatry department with diverse psychiatric presentations associated with CSA. In most of these cases, the perpetrator was unmarried and known to the child. The presentation was varied with patients being diagnosed with obsessive–compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, acute and transient psychotic disorder, dysthymic disorder, recurrent depressive disorder, acute stress reaction, conversion disorder, borderline personality disorder, and moderate depressive episode with somatic symptoms. Individual and family counseling was an important part of management of these cases along with pharmacotherapy. More vigilance about CSA and mental health in all categories of health–care personnel would help in early detection and timely management of these cases.
Lorazepam challenge test
Authors: Seetharaman Aparna , Chauhan Vinay Singh , Adhvaryu Arka , Prakash Jyoti
Published: April 2023

Catatonia is a psychomotor behavioral syndrome characterized as a complex syndrome of bizarre motor behavior, impaired volition, and vegetative abnormalities. Catatonia is a medical emergency and if not recognized on time may have potentially fatal outcomes. We present a case series of three patients with catatonia, in whom Injection lorazepam 4 mg administered intravenously (Lorazepam Challenge) produced quick, optimum outcome.
West Nile virus in India: An update on its genetic lineages
Authors: Rajaiah Paramasivan , Mayilsamy Muniaraj , Kumar Ashwani
Published: April 2023

West Nile virus (WNV) is a rapidly spreading mosquito-transmitted zoonotic flavivirus. Mosquitoes belonging to the genus Culex are incriminated as the principal vectors of the virus, which causes West Nile fever (WNF) in humans. Manifestations of WNF include a mild, self-limiting, flu-like illness, which in severe cases (rare) may progress to encephalitis, resulting in life-threatening consequences. WNV is geographically distributed worldwide, covering Africa, the Americas, Europe, and Asia (except Antarctica). The virus exists in a bird-mosquito transmission cycle in nature, with humans and horses as incidental/accidental hosts. The virus can infect a large variety of hosts worldwide, i.e., about 300 birds and around 70 different mosquito species belonging to several genera. For a long time, it was believed that WNV was not highly virulent and caused only mild infection globally. However, the recent frequent and increasing incidence of clinically severe WNV infections, such as encephalitis in humans and horses with significant mortality, has been reported in the Americas, Europe, and several East Asian countries. The emergence of lineage 2 strains endemic to Africa, with epidemic potential in humans and horses in Europe, is considered a serious global health concern. Although WNV is known to circulate in India since 1952, its re-emergence with severe neuro-invasive pathogenic potential in humans in Assam, Kerala, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu states signals urgent efforts to understand the dynamics of circulating strains with regard to its vector, hosts, and environment. This could be done by prioritizing “One Health” approach for developing effective preventive and control strategies. In view of the global interest, we present an overview of the circulating genetic lineages of WNV in India in comparison with the global scenario. In addition, we stress on holistic approaches of “One Health” strategy as the current need of the hour for designing effective preventive and control strategies in the country.
Diagnosis of neuroborreliosis in the context of local seroprevalence: A chart review study and a methodological overview
Authors: Baráth András , Révész Mónika , Gönczi Márton , Bekő Gabriella , Zóka András
Published: April 2023

Background & objectives:

In neuroborreliosis (NB) serology might objectively differentiate ongoing from past infection when the intrathecal space is involved. The hierarchy of the parallel serum-CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) methods is seldom discussed and remains elusive in daily practice. We compared the efficacy of certain methods and assessed the prevalence of anti-Borrelia antibodies in the local population.

Methods:

We summarized standard two-tier test results in all ELISA-reactive samples of patients with suspected NB (n=152) since 2017 and tested 122 unrelated sera for anti-Borrelia antibodies from central Hungary.

Results:

The most common central nervous system symptom was a cranial nerve palsy (27.6% of all subjects). CSF was available in 25 cases. A serum-CSF IgG-matched line immunoassay (LIA) detected intrathecal antibody production correctly in 6 of 8 samples when compared to the ELISA-based antibody-index (AI). Among the 122 random sera the prevalence of specific anti-Borrelia IgG antibodies (on LIA, not including anti-p41) were 6.8% above 30 and 10% above 60 years. Our results enable us to assume the predictive values of serological results according to the pretest probability of neuroborreliosis.

Interpretation & conclusion:

Our results suggest that recombinant antigen-based two-tier serology from solely the sera might have sufficient positive predictive value to verify NB in young individuals with characteristic anamnestic data in our region. When parallel serum-CSF testing is warranted, AI should have priority. IgG and albumin concentrations in both the serum and the CSF, the potential time of exposure and the nature and duration of symptoms form the bare minimal set of data for conclusive testing.
Effect of ultraviolet radiation on immature stages of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , Ojha VP , Pasi Shweta , Dhiman Ramesh C
Published: April 2023

Background & objectives:

Understanding the influence of ultraviolet light on organisms is important for examining the hazards of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. However, little is known about the biological toxicity of ultraviolet light against mosquitoes, which are regularly exposed to UV light. This study was planned to determine the impact of UV radiation on different aquatic stages of Aedes aegypti, Anopheles stephensi and Culex quinquefaciatus mosquitoes.

Methods:

We exposed I/II instar larvae, III/IV instar larvae and pupae of Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefaciatus mosquitoes to UV radiation of 253 nm wavelength in a closed chamber of 30×30 cm. The exposure was done for different time intervals viz. 1, 2, 3, 4 minutes and so on. Development of larvae/pupae to adult stage was monitored daily and mortality, if any, was recorded.

Results:

Development of I/II instar larvae of Ae. aegypti and Cx. quinquefasciatus to pupal stage was unsuccessful at an exposure time of one minute while only 1.7% pupation occurred in I/II instar larvae of Ae. aegypti upon similar exposure. When III/IV stage larvae were exposed to UV light, pupal development occurred only at 30seconds and one-minute exposure in An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefaciatus but in Ae. aegypti, no pupation occurred with one-minute exposure. With four-minute UV exposure of pupae, no adult emerged in Ae. aegypti; 33.3% adult emerged in An. stephensi and 66.7% adult emerged in Cx. quinquefaciatus.

Interpretation & conclusion:

Our results show that UV radiation results in developmental arrest of Ae. aegypti, An. stephensi and Cx. quinquefaciatus mosquitoes.
Early efficacy of individual regimens containing bedaquiline in patients with drug resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Putra Oki Nugraha , Yulistiani Yulistiani , Soedarsono Soedarsono , Subay Susi
Published: April 2023

Objective:

To evaluate early efficacy of sputum conversion within 6 months of individual regimens containing bedaquiline in patients with drug resistant tuberculosis.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study among patients with drug resistant tuberculosis who were receiving individual regimens containing bedaquiline. The primary outcome was sputum conversion of both smear and culture within 6 months of treatment. We used medical records of drug resistant tuberculosis patients from January 2020 to December 2021. The study was conducted at Dr. Soetomo Hospital, Indonesia from August to October 2022.

Results:

In this study, 44 eligible drug resistant tuberculosis patients were initiated on regimens containing bedaquiline. There were 52.3% males and the median age was 45.5 years. The rates of previous treatment (70.5%) and lung cavity (36.4%) were high. The most common companion drugs included clofazimine, cycloserine, levofloxacin, and linezolid. Sputum smear and culture conversion was seen in 79.4% and 82.1% at the 2nd month, respectively. More than 97% patients had smear and culture conversion at the end of 6 months.

Conclusions:

Among drug resistant tuberculosis patients, individual regimens containing bedaquiline were associated with high rates of smear and culture conversion at the end of 6 months. Early efficacy of regimens containing bedaquiline can be used to predict cure rate at the end of treatment.
Simplified clinical algorithm for immediate antiretroviral therapy initiation
Authors: Subronto Yanri Wijayanti , Kusmayanti Nur Aini , Januraga Pande Putu , Wirawan Late Nyoman Dewa , Wisaksana Rudi , Sukmaningrum Evi , Kawi Nurhayati Hamim , Iskandar Shelly , Mulyani Tri , Sulaiman Nurjannah , Magnani Robert , Kaldor John , Law Matthew
Published: April 2023

Background & objectives:

Although the World Health Organization recommends same day or rapid (< seven days) antiretroviral therapy (ART) initiation, delays in ART initiation remain common due to waiting for laboratory test results. This study employed a simplified clinical algorithm the HATI [HIV Awal (Early) Test & Treat Indonesia]-SAI (Simple ART Initiation) aimed to increase the proportion of ART uptake and decrease the time to ART initiation that can be used in various care settings.

Methods:

This study compared the percentage of ART uptake and retention, viral load (VL) suppression and time to ART initiation between the observation and intervention phases among newly diagnosed HIV patients from key populations. As part of the intervention, the newly diagnosed patients underwent screening using a simple form [consisting of data on age, height and weight (for body mass index calculation), questions on the presence of symptoms of HIV stages 1 and 2, tuberculosis, history of diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease], to determine eligibility for immediate ART initiation. Those who met the pre-defined criteria immediately received a combination of tenofovir lamivudine and efavirenz for two weeks. The baseline laboratory examination due to this was moved up to two weeks post ART. Factors significantly associated with ART uptake were also determined and their odds ratios were measured using logistic regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 2173 people newly diagnosed with HIV were recruited, with 1579 and 594 in the observation and intervention phases, respectively. In both phases, the majority were men who have sex with men, who were young (<30 yr old) and employed, with high levels of education. The intervention phase significantly increased the proportion of ART initiation [91%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 89-93% vs. 78%, 95% CI: 76-80%] but did not have any impact on the proportion of six months retention and VL suppression. The intervention also significantly decreased the time to ART initiation from median ± interquartile range: 9±20 days to 2±10 days.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The findings of this study suggest that the HATI-SAI intervention increased the uptake and decreased the time for immediate ART initiation. The HATI-SAI provides a simple and safe clinical approach that can readily be adopted in different settings without a costly investment in technology.
Epiphora and nasal blockage – An unusual presentation of Pindborg tumor
Authors: Shah Urvi , Patel Hiren , Pandya Haren , Dewan Hitesh
Published: April 2023

Odontogenic tumors are silent ailments which can affect any individual. One such lesion is a calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT). It is a rare lesion with a locally aggressive nature. A 33-year-old male presented with nasal blockage and continuous flow of tears from the left eye for the past 7–8 months. Clinical examination revealed slightly protruded left eyeball and altered level of eyeballs with continuous watery discharge. Hess chart confirmed normal eye movements. Intraoral findings were not significant. The final diagnosis of CEOT was established based on the histopathological aspects. CEOT is mostly found in the third to fifth decade of life without gender predilection. Presenting symptoms and signs comprise painless expansile mass, although there are reports associated with pain, nasal obstruction, epistaxis, and proptosis. In this article, we would like to present a case of CEOT with epiphora and nasal blockage as the main and only presentation, an uncommon finding. Furthermore, discussing and posing a question of an adequate period of follow-up required to negate the presence of recurrence. One must stay vigilant enough not only to attest a singular symptom to the commonest ailment related to it but also to explore the possibility of the less known. Furthermore, we need to further research in depth to establish a certain duration after which the likeliness of recurrence is to the minimum.
Antero-medially displaced condylar head leading to pseudoankylosis
Authors: Chandra Jagadish , James Jijy , Thilak Gopinath , Jagadish Veena
Published: April 2023

Ankylosis is one of the most disruptive maladies affecting the masticatory system with trauma being the most common cause. Pseudoankylosis though uncommon can cause functional and psychological discomforts for the patient. Described here is operative management of a case of posttraumatic pseudoankylosis in a 27-year-old female, having fractured condylar head dislocated anteriorly and medially, with eventual fusion to sigmoid region. Retromandibular approach for condylar fracture has been advocated by many authors to be advantageous over other approaches given that they cause good cosmetic results, lower risk of facial nerve injury, reduced operation time. The question still remains whether open reduction internal fixation or removal of the condylar head should be favored for restricted mouth opening after closed reduction.
An interdisciplinary approach for the management and rehabilitation of a fibro-osseous neoplasm using platelet-rich gel and an implant-supported hybrid prosthesis
Authors: Bedi Navpreet Singh , Gandhi Sumir , Abraham George , Alageshan Vijay
Published: April 2023

Fibro-osseous neoplasms such as central ossifying fibroma (COF) can lead to destructive expansile lesions involving the maxilla or the mandible. Management of such lesions usually involves surgical intervention in the form of enucleation or resection. Platelet-rich gel (PRG) has been known to expedite bone regeneration due to its osteoconductive property. PRG initiates a greater and faster initial cellular response in comparison to platelet-rich plasma and has better handling characteristics. The challenge in rehabilitation often occurs due to the size of the osseous defects postsurgery. Fixed prosthodontic rehabilitation with endosteal implants is a viable treatment approach in such cases, improving the oral health quality of life and masticatory efficiency, when compared to a removable partial denture. This case report describes the management of an extensive lesion of COF using PRG and rehabilitation with a screw-retained, implant-supported hybrid prosthesis.
Osteotomy in lateral sinus augmentation
Authors: Singh Rachana , Aurora Jitender Kumar , Bedi R. S. , Chauhan Himanshu , Banerjee Adrineel , Srivastava Charukirti
Published: April 2023

Background:

Various sinus lift techniques have been tried to minimize the rate of perforations, especially in Type I and Type II sinus membrane thickness.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim and objectives of this study was to present our own experience compare and the efficacy of conventional direct sinus lift technique and direct sinus lift using LAS Kit.

Material and Methods:

Our study included 14 patients in which seven patients in conventional technique and seven patients in Lateral Approach Sinus (LAS) Kit®.

Result:

The results showed that the sinus membrane perforation rate, using LAS Kit® with specially designed drills, is less than that of the conventional technique, especially in Type I and II sinus membrane with the added benefit of reduced operative time. The mean operative time in conventional technique was 28.29 ± 2.21min and in LAS Kit®, it was 19.43 ± 2.88min which was statistically significantly less than the conventional technique group (P < 0.001). In both the groups, 100% implant integrity was achieved (measured using reverse torque technique) after 6 months of follow-up. It was observed that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in pain, swelling, flap dehiscence, and infection at different time intervals.

Conclusion:

We conclude that the use of LAS Kit® for sinus lift procedure in atrophied maxilla with Type I and II sinus membrane is a much safer approach over the conventional technique. Further, the results obtained also showed that blood coagulum gave better gain in bone height over a period of 6 months.
Rehabilitation using implants in free fibula flap of a patient with ameloblastoma
Authors: Srivastava Gunjan , Padhiary Subrat Kumar , Nayak Tusar Kanti , Mishra Niranjan
Published: April 2023

Ameloblastoma is a locally invasive odontogenic tumor of the jaw. It can advance to large size resulting in facial deformity, loose teeth, and in severe cases pathologic fracture of the jaws. As ameloblastoma shows local invasiveness and tendency for recurrence, radical surgery which includes marginal resection or segmental resection are preferred. This clinical report describes the prosthetic rehabilitation of a patient affected by extensive mandibular ameloblastoma. Enbloc resection of the tumor and reconstruction by fibula-free flap was done. After initial healing for about 18 months, five endosseous implants were placed and implant-supported fixed hybrid prosthesis using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing milled titanium framework was fabricated. Surgical and prosthodontic challenges are discussed. Osseointegrated implants provide a new perspective of treatment to enhance the quality of life of patients resected for oral tumors.
Enhancing retention and esthetics of fabricated silicone finger prosthesis using stump reduction technique and customized acrylic nail
Authors: Bhaskaran Sapna , Zachariah Georgie P.
Published: April 2023

Prosthesis of any type is a necessity for a patient with defect to continue their daily life, on a socially acceptable level. The most commonly encountered forms of defects or loss include complete or partial finger amputations. One of the major concerns in the replacement of a partially amputated finger is inadequate retention of the prosthesis. This paper presents prosthetic rehabilitation of partially amputated index finger with a silicone prosthesis using reduced stump model technique and customized acrylic nail which enhances retention and esthetics of finger prosthesis.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
Authors: Ghezta Narotam Kumar , Bhardwaj Yogesh , Ram Rangila , Basi Rowena Navjyot
Published: April 2023

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is not just a syndrome but rather an engrossing infectious disease that is difficult to rationalize owing to unpredictable onset. Reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus remains the etiological factor. The clinical depiction remains the cornerstone of diagnosis. Characteristic feature of the disease includes acute lower motor neuron facial palsy, otalgia, and mucosal and cutaneous rashes. A 37-year-old male reported to our department with pain and difficulty in closing the eye. At follow-up, the lesions got healed, but facial nerve deficit persisted. It is vital to establish an early diagnosis which aids in distinguishing the syndrome from other severe neurological illnesses, and early initiation of treatment is of prime importance to improve the impaired nerve function; hence, precise knowledge of the disease is crucial. Audiometric analysis must be performed since it can lead to permanent hearing loss.
Mucormycosis coinfection post-COVID-19 recovery
Authors: Kulkarni Vishal , Kumar C. Senthil , Misra CS
Published: April 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection has resulted in a pandemic, the disease manifests itself as various conditions ranging from respiratory disorders to exacerbated inflammatory responses. The management in some cases involves immediate care in an intensive setup with the administration of various antibiotics and steroids which has resulted in the imposition of risk factors and growth of fulminant fungal infection. The present article addresses two such cases which presented with osteomyelitis secondary to mucormycosis in patients who had more than one episode of COVID-19 infection. The upsurge of existing manifestation and development of opportunistic infections has to be considered in patients who are suffering or recovering from COVID-19. The COVID-19 scenario brings up a possibility of many bacterial and fungal infections in its aftermath. This article brings out two such opportunistic aggressive fungal infections and comprehensive management of the same.
Biomechanical evaluation of different fixation techniques following modified sagittal split ramus osteotomy using buccal step
Authors: Warade Pratik Dhananjay , Kshirsagar Rajesh , Mishra Prasamita , Prasad Pranave , Sardeshmukh Amruta
Published: April 2023

Objective:

This study was to evaluate the efficacy of three different designs of rigid fixation using polyurethane hemimandible replicas following modified sagittal split ramus osteotomy with buccal step.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-eight polyurethane hemimandible replicas have been used. Following the osteotomy and fixation, each specimen has been mounted on a Universal Testing unit using a prefabricated customized jig and has been tested to a range of vertical forces starting from 0 N on the incisal edge of lateral incisor and lateral forces of on lateral surface of mandibular first molar. Progressive load has been applied until a deflection of 10 mm was observed. SPSS version 20 has been used for analyzing the data. The biomechanical stability of different osteosynthesis has been compared using a one-way ANOVA with post hoc Bonferroni test. P ≤ 0.05 will be considered statistically significant.

Results:

After advancement of 7 mm, comparison of vertical load and lateral load among different miniplate systems showed that load was maximum in bicortical screws in inverted L pattern followed by T-shaped miniplate system and was least in single six-hole straight plate (0.001) at P ≤ 0.05.

Conclusion:

Our study concludes that bicortical screws in inverted “L” pattern are more resistant to lateral load as well as on the application of vertical load when compared to other fixation techniques and statistical difference was evident.
Mysterious alarming mucormycosis
Authors: Neville JF , Jayanthi Abhinay , Reena  , Rath Amrita
Published: April 2023

The sudden epidemic of mucormycosis amid COVID-19 pandemic has significantly challenged our understanding of the disease while affecting the whole medical and surgical management. Overzealous use of steroids in the management of covid-19 and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus has resulted in a tremendous rise in mucormycosis cases further burdening the already strained health care infrastructure and health care workers, especially the anesthesiologists. While working in a tertiary care institute of the country, we have been facing multiple challenges in its anesthetic management on a daily basis. This article is a case series involving four different patients who were operated for rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis with a brief discussion on various aspects of this multisystem epidemic.
A rare case report of pleomorphic adenoma of the upper lip
Authors: Prakash Chander , Tanwar Nishi , Dhokwal Sushil , Devi Anju
Published: April 2023

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common salivary gland tumor which accounts for about 60% of all salivary neoplasms. It is also known as “mixed tumor because of its wide cytomorphologic diversity”. Pleomorphic adenoma salivary glands mostly occurs on the palate, but the involvement of the upper lip is rare. The present report describes a case of a 62-year-old male with asymptomatic firm nodular swelling attached with upper lip which was later diagnosed as pleomorphic adenoma in the excisional biopsy.
Correcting for Verbal Autopsy Misclassification Bias in Cause-Specific Mortality Estimates
Authors: Fiksel Jacob , Gilbert Brian , Wilson Emily , Kalter Henry , Kante Almamy , Akum Aveika , Blau Dianna , Bassat Quique , Macicame Ivalda , Samo Gudo Eduardo , Black Robert , Zeger Scott , Amouzou Agbessi , Datta Abhirup
Published: April 2023

Verbal autopsies (VAs) are extensively used to determine cause of death (COD) in many low- and middle-income countries. However, COD determination from VA can be inaccurate. Computer coded verbal autopsy (CCVA) algorithms used for this task are imperfect and misclassify COD for a large proportion of deaths. If not accounted for, this misclassification leads to biased estimates of cause-specific mortality fractions (CSMFs), a critical piece in health-policy making. Recent work has demonstrated that the knowledge of the CCVA misclassification rates can be used to calibrate raw VA-based CSMF estimates to account for the misclassification bias. In this manuscript, we review the current practices and issues with raw COD predictions from CCVA algorithms and provide a complete primer on how to use the VA calibration approach with the calibratedVA software to correct for verbal autopsy misclassification bias in cause-specific mortality estimates. We use calibratedVA to obtain CSMFs for child (1–59 months) and neonatal deaths using VA data from the Countrywide Mortality Surveillance for Action project in Mozambique.
Validity of Self-Reported Mosquito Bites to Assess Household Mosquito Abundance in Six Communities of Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador
Authors: Glover Brian , Lee Gwenyth O. , Suing Oscar , Ha Thien-An , Thongsripong Panpim , Cevallos Varsovia , Ponce Patricio , Van Wyk Hannah , Morrison Amy C. , Coloma Josefina , Eisenberg Joseph N.S.
Published: April 2023

Mosquito-borne diseases are a global burden; however, current methods of evaluating human–mosquito contact rates are expensive and time consuming. Validated surveys of self-reported mosquito bites may be an inexpensive way to determine mosquito presence and bite exposure level in an area, but this remains untested. In this study, a survey of self-reported mosquito bites was validated against household mosquito abundance from six communities in Esmeraldas, Ecuador. From February 2021 to July 2022, households were interviewed monthly, and five questions were used to ask participants how often they were bitten by mosquitoes at different times during the day. At the same time, adult mosquitoes were collected using a Prokopack aspirator. Species were identified and counted. Survey responses were compared with the total number of mosquitoes found in the home using negative binomial regression. More frequent self-reported mosquito bites were significantly associated with higher numbers of collected adult mosquitoes. These associations were driven by the prevalence of the dominant genera, Culex. These results suggest that surveys of perceived mosquito bites relate to actual mosquito presence, making them a potentially useful tool for determining the impact of vector–control interventions on community perceptions of risk but less useful for assessing the risk of nondominant species such as Aedes aegypti. Further work is needed to examine the robustness of these results in other contexts.
Early Discharge, Outpatient Evaluation, and Home Management of Acute Respiratory Failure from COVID-19 in Martinique
Authors: Agossou Moustapha , Provost Mathilde , Barnay José-Luis , Turmel Jean-Marie , Cécilia-Joseph Elsa , Resiere Dabor , Dramé Moustapha , _ _
Published: April 2023

A worldwide pandemic of viral infection due to SARS-CoV-2 (and its resultant disease, COVID-19) has been ongoing since 2019. Martinique was affected by a major wave in summer 2021, with saturation of the health system forcing the implementation of home care management. We conducted a retrospective, observational study that included patients treated in the KOVIDHOM 972 program. We included adult patients with SARS-CoV2 hypoxemic pneumonia and requiring 4 L per minute or less of oxygen. In total, 418 were discharged to home with oxygen therapy after hospitalization for SARS-CoV-2 hypoxemic acute pneumonia, and 416 were analyzed. Half (50.2%) were women. Mean age was 58.8 ± 13.0 years. Time from onset of symptoms to hospitalization was 9.1 ± 3.5 days, and average length of stay was 10.5 ± 7.4 days. Maximum oxygen flow during hospitalization was 6.9 ± 4.5 L/min in patients who did not require intensive care. Average oxygen flow at discharge was 1.8 ± 07 L/min. At 30 days after discharge, the readmission rate was 0.5% (95% CI: 0–1.18), and the death rate was 0.5% (95% CI 0–1.18). Our study shows a very low rate of readmission or death in COVID-19 patients discharged to home with oxygen therapy. These results highlight the possibility of safe home care in carefully selected patients. Such programs could be useful in pandemic or wide-scale emergency situations.
Serological Markers of Exposure to Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax Infection in Southwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Jeang Brook , Lee Ming-Chieh , Embury Paula , Yewhalaw Delenasaw , Narum David , King Christopher , Tham Wai-Hong , Kazura James , Yan Guiyun , Dent Arlene
Published: April 2023

As malaria control and elimination efforts ramp up in Ethiopia, more sensitive tools for assessing exposure to coendemic Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax are needed to accurately characterize malaria risk and epidemiology. Serological markers have been increasingly explored as cost-effective tools for measuring transmission intensity and evaluating intervention effectiveness. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the efficacy of a panel of 10 serological markers as a proxy for malaria exposure and to determine underlying risk factors of seropositivity. We conducted cross-sectional surveys in two sites of contrasting malaria transmission intensities in southwestern Ethiopia: Arjo in Oromia Region (low transmission) and Gambella in Gambella Regional State (moderate transmission). We measured antibody reactivity against six P. falciparum (AMA-1, CSP, EBA175RIII-V, MSP-142, MSP-3, RH2ab) and four P. vivax (DBPII[Sal1], EBP2, MSP-119, RBP2b) targets. We used mixed effects logistic regressions to assess predictors of seropositivity. Plasmodium spp. infection prevalence by quantitative polymerase chain reaction was 1.36% in Arjo and 10.20% in Gambella. Seroprevalence and antibody levels against all 10 antigens were higher in Gambella than in Arjo. We observed spatial heterogeneities in seroprevalence across Arjo and smaller variations across Gambella. Seroprevalence in both sites was lowest against PfCSP and highest against PfAMA-1, PfMSP-142, and PvMSPS-119. Male sex, age, and agricultural occupation were positively associated with seropositivity in Arjo; associations were less pronounced in Gambella. Our findings demonstrate that seroprevalence and antibody levels to specific Plasmodium antigens can be used to identify high-risk groups and geographical areas where interventions to reduce malaria transmission should be implemented.
Site-Specific Incidence Rate of Blastocystis hominis and Its Association with Childhood Malnutrition: Findings from a Multi-Country Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Zaman Wahid Barbie , Haque Md Ahshanul , Gazi Md Amran , Fahim Shah Mohammad , Faruque Abu Syed Golam , Mahfuz Mustafa , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: April 2023

In this study, we investigated the potential association between the burden of asymptomatic Blastocystis spp. (Blastocystis hominis) infection and nutritional status among children under 2 years of age using the data collected from 1,715 children from eight distinct geographic locations, including Bangladesh, Brazil, India, Peru, Tanzania, Pakistan, Nepal, and South Africa. Childhood stunting, wasting, and underweight were the outcome variables, and B. hominis infection was the exposure variable of this present study. The presence of B. hominis in nondiarrheal stools was evaluated by TaqMan Array Cards. Site-specific incidence rates were estimated using Poisson regression, and multiple generalized estimating equation was used to assess the association between the B. hominis infection and nutritional status. The site-specific incidence rates of asymptomatic B. hominis infections per 100 child-months were higher in Tanzania, Peru, and South Africa when compared with the other study sites. Moreover, in terms of site-specific association, childhood stunting was significantly associated with asymptomatic B. hominis infection in Bangladesh (odds ratio [OR]: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.26–2.08), India (OR: 1.78; 95% CI: 1.46–2.16), Nepal (OR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.60–3.21), Peru (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.26–1.71), South Africa (OR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.35–1.83), and Tanzania (OR: 2.46; 95% CI: 2.18–2.79) sites. Wasting was associated with B. hominis in the Brazil site only (OR: 3.19; 95% CI: 1.31–7.77). On the other hand, underweight was associated in the Bangladesh (OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.48–2.42), Brazil (OR: 4.41; 95% CI: 1.57–12.4), Nepal (OR: 2.25; 95% CI: 1.52–3.35), and Tanzania (OR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.42–1.99) sites. Our analysis further reveals that the presence of additional pathogens may play a pathogenic role in children who have B. hominis infection.
The Burden of Arboviral Infections in the Military Health System 2012–2019
Authors: Wellington Trevor , Fraser Jamie A. , Kuo Huai-Ching , Hickey Patrick W. , Lindholm David A.
Published: April 2023

Arboviral infections, including dengue (DNV), chikungunya (CHIKV), and Zika (ZIKV), impact both travelers and native populations of endemic regions. We sought to assess the disease burden of arboviral infections in the Military Health System, the validity of arboviral diagnostic codes, and the role of pretravel counseling on insect avoidance precautions. We searched for diagnostic codes consistent with arboviral infection and grouped them into DNV, CHIKV, ZIKV, Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), and Other. Demographic data were evaluated. A subset of charts in each category were reviewed for diagnostic validity and travel characteristics. In all, 10,547 unique subjects carried 17,135 arboviral diagnostic codes, including 1,606 subjects (15.2%) coded for DNV, 230 (2.2%) for ZIKV, 65 (0.6%) for CHIKV, and 4,317 (40.9%) for JEV. A chart review was performed on 807 outpatient charts, yielding outpatient diagnostic code positive predictive values of 60.5% (DNV), 15.3% (ZIKV), and 64.5% (CHIKV); there were no valid cases of JEV. Dengue represented the greatest burden of arboviral infections with 2.2 cases per 100,000 military healthcare enrollees over the 2012–2019 fiscal years. More than 80% of subjects with arboviral infection did not have documented pretravel counseling. Arboviral infections represent a significant disease burden in young travelers to endemic regions. After adjustment for diagnostic validity, DNV represented the greatest burden. Diagnostic codes for ZIKV and JEV overestimate the burden of these diseases. Low rates of pretravel visits represent an opportunity for increased emphasis on insect exposure precautions.