bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Küresel Covid-19 Pandemisi: Yetersizliği Olan ve Yetersizliği Olmayan Çocukların Ebeveynlerinin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: YAKUT Ayşe Dilşad
Published: June 2022

Okulların kapanması, şirketlerin uzaktan çalışmaya veya işi azaltmaya geçmesi, belirsiz ekonomik durum ve ikamet edenlere yönelik sokağa çıkma yasağı kısıtlamaları ailelerin günlük yaşamlarında birçok değişikliğe neden olmuştur. Şüphesiz pandemiden kaynaklanan bu köklü değişiklikler tüm çocukları olumsuz olarak etkilemiştir, ancak yetersizliği olan öğrenciler ve ebeveynleri muhtemelen daha fazla etkilenmiştir. Bu çalışma, küresel COVID-19 pandemisi sırasında yetersizliği olan ve olmayan çocukların ebeveynlerinin stres algıları üzerinde etkili olan faktörlere ışık tutmaktadır. Veriler, Türkiye'de yaşayan 369 ebeveynden çevrimiçi bir anketle elde edilmiştir. Bulgular, algılanan bakım yükünün, algılanan sosyal desteğin ve çocukların problem davranışlarının, ebeveynlerin stres algılarını öngördüğünü doğrulamıştır. Ayrıca, yetersizliği olan çocukların ebeveynleri, sosyal destek algılarını anlamlı olarak daha düşük ve çocuklarındaki problem davranışları anlamlı olarak daha yüksek olduğunu bildirmiştir. Sonuçlar, ebeveynler için zor durumlarla nasıl başa çıkılacağı konusunda destek hizmetleri almalarının gerekliliğini vurgulamaktadır.
A systematic review of reactivation of tuberculosis due to use of corticosteroids for COVID-19 treatment between January 2020 to January 2022
Authors: Tewari Sachchidanand , Yadav Rahul
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus-19 disease became a matter of concern for the whole world and WHO declared it as pandemic on 11 March 2020. Soon a number of clinical trials started to check for the treatment modalities, to compare their efficacy and safety. Out of which corticosteroids in trials showed decrease in mortality in severe COVID-19 patients. However existing diseases such as tuberculosis still remains a leading killer and matter of concern. One out of four individuals are said to be having tuberculosis (mostly in inactive form or latent form) but there remains a threat of reactivation of tuberculosis in presence of risk factors such as corticosteroid administration as it causes immunosuppression. This is a retrospective observational study on reactivation of tuberculosis due to corticosteroids used in COVID-19 treatment. Most commonly given corticosteroid was found to be dexamethasone and the duration of corticosteroid therapy ranged between 5 to 12 days. Majority of patients (5 out of 6) showed reactivation of tuberculosis within 30 days of starting of corticosteroid therapy and most common co-morbidity associated was found to be diabetes mellitus followed by hypertension in such patients. Symptoms of 4 out of 6 patients resolved after starting of anti-tubercular therapy.
COVID-19 vaccination: a possible trigger for Addisonian crisis in a patient with Addison’s disease
Authors: Ogundipe Olayinka A. , Neill Marjory J. , Dherwani Vevak
Published: June 2022

Infection with COVID-19 disease is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Following its identification, the pursuit of the rapid development of effective vaccines became a pandemic-period international public health priority. This report describes the case of an older woman with Addison’s disease who developed acute clinical symptoms and signs indicative of an Addisonian crisis following each of two consecutive doses of the Pfizer BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines. Both presentations (with nausea, vomiting, hypotension, tachycardia, and transient hypoglycaemia) occurred within 24 hours of receipt of the vaccines. In each instance, she responded well to treatment with intravenous fluids, and temporarily changing her maintenance oral steroid regimen to higher dose intravenous steroids. She successfully completed a period of rehabilitation and was discharged home. Some pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations of the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines are discussed. An overview is presented of Addison’s disease and Addisonian crisis. The discussion also applies two causality assessment systems to derive a classification of ‘probable’ adverse drug reactions for the index case report.
A case report on wegener’s granulomatosis
Authors: Shaji Bipin , Suresh Abisri
Published: June 2022

Wegener’s Granulomatosis, also known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis, is a rare multisystem autoimmune disease with an unknown etiology that can affect persons of all ages. In most cases, the condition affects the respiratory tract and the kidneys. The initial symptoms include a runny nose (rhinorrhea), nasal crusting, and nasal blockage or congestion. More significant symptoms include nose bleeds, ulcerations of the nasal mucous membranes with subsequent bacterial infection, sinus discomfort, sinus inflammation, and hoarseness. The patient was presented with symptoms like reddish staining of the eyes, hearing loss, and numerous joint discomfort and swelling of the lower limbs. The antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, cytoplasmic (C-ANCA), and human leukocyte antigen- B27 (HLA-B27) were both positive, and renal biopsy revealed necrotizing and crescentic glomerulonephritis. The treatment was initiated with corticosteroids and monoclonal antibodies. The patient responded positively to the therapy, and her health appears to be improving.
Pattern of menstruation and its problem among adolescent girls: a school based cross-sectional study
Authors: Poudel Pramila
Published: June 2022

Background: Menstruation is a normal physiological process that begins during puberty and continues throughout the 5th decade of woman’s life. The pattern of menstruation varies from woman to women. The aim of present study was to identify the pattern of menstruation and its problems among adolescent girls at Birgunj, Nepal.Methods: A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional school-based study was conducted among 244 girls studying in grade 8, 9 and 10 using a semi structured self-administered questionnaire. The obtained data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 23. The probability value (p value) of <0.05 was considered statistically significant at 95% confidence level.Results: Result revealed that mean age of adolescent was 14.97±1.02 and mean age at menarche was 13.13±0.72 years. Almost half of the adolescents (48.3%) had moderate to severe pain during menstruation. Majority (78.27%) had regular pattern of menstruation. Nearly 1/10th (8.6%) of adolescents missed school during menstruation and the major cause of absenteeism was pain and discomfort (76.19%). Majority (81.6%) had restrictions in religious/family activities and (76.8%) had feeling of tiredness during menstruation. The regularity of menstruation and dysmenorrhea was significantly associated with age of adolescents at the level of p value 0.05.Conclusions: Various physical and social problems are experienced by the adolescent during menstruation. These problems have impact on the lifestyle of the adolescents including missed school days. Social restrictions during menstruation may lead to various psychological impacts on adolescents. Education regarding hygiene, self-care and management of menstrual symptoms, clarifying menstrual taboos among family and community members is required so that the adolescent can experience their feminine feature with health and dignity.
Platelet indices as an acute phase reactant in infants admitted with acute febrile illness
Authors: Tariq Syed , Thoker Wasim Yousuf
Published: June 2022

Background: The most common causes of thrombocytosis are infectious illnesses; platelet count is unaffected by fever duration. Infectious disorders such rotavirus gastroenteritis, respiratory syncytial virus infection, hepatitis B and C virus infection, brucellosis, and pulmonary tuberculosis, and also medical and non-medical situations, might impact mean platelet volume (MPV) readings. C-reactive protein (CRP) plasma concentration changes during infection or inflammation as part of the innate immune response. Aim was to investigate in children with febrile illness the correlation between platelet indices and CRP.Methods: This hospital based descriptive study was conducted in post graduate Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology, an associated hospital of Government Medical College and Hospital, Srinagar, from December 2019 to November 2021. As per sample size calculation 3000 patients were included in the study. Patients of either sex, age from 1 month to 1 year of age with fever admitted in hospital were included in the study.Results: There was a significantly positive correlation between platelet count and CRP. The sensitivity was highest for platelets at 96.67 and lowest for MPV 32.97 while as specificity was highest for white blood cells (WBC) at 94.4 for MPV was 92.22 and lowest for platelet (PLT) 30.77.  Spearman rank correlation between platelet indices and CRP value children with fever with high CRP had a significantly high PT and it has significant positive correlation with CRP.Conclusions: We found a strong link between CRP and platelet counts in patients. Platelet count, platelet distribution width (PDW), MPV, and plateletcrit (PCT) were all influenced.
Knowledge, attitude and practice regarding breastfeeding among COVID-19 positive mothers delivered in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Shyamala A. , Subasakthi A. , Suresh P. M.
Published: June 2022

Background: WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding in COVID-19 mothers. Colostrums not only provides the optimum source of nutrients for the neonate and its first strong protection against infection. Breast feeding lays the foundation for psychological bonding between the baby and the mother. This study assessed breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, and practices among COVID-19 mothers.Methods: In this cross-sectional study sixty-three COVID-19 positive mothers who delivered in Kanyakumari Government Medical College and had at least one child aged 2 years or younger were evaluated with an online self-reported knowledge, attitude, and practice questionnaire regarding breastfeeding. The purpose of the study was explained and informed consent was obtained on voluntary basis. The data collected was entered into Microsoft excel, analysed using SPSS version 23.0, using descriptive statistics comprising of frequencies, percentages and, measures of central tendencies.Results: 74.6% of mothers had good knowledge,63.4% displayed good attitude and 58.7% had good breastfeeding practices. A total of 65.1% of the mothers know the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and 46% gave breastmilk as the first feed.Conclusions: Breastfeeding knowledge was good among COVID-19 mothers, breastfeeding practice was suboptimal. Mothers should be counselled that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risks for transmission.
Pattern of congenital malformations in new-borns: a hospital based retrospective study
Authors: Kaur Baljinder , Kaur Surinder , Thakkar Tanya , Sood Kirti , Kaur Navreet , Kaur Avneet , Kaur Harjot
Published: June 2022

Background: Congenital malformation in new-borns is a major public health problem. Identification of the pattern of congenital malformations and hence control of birth defects is an urgent need.Methods: This retrospective study was carried out in neonatal care unit (NICU) of GMC and RH Patiala, Punjab. All the deliveries conducted from January 2020 to December 2020 were included in the study. All the new born babies were thoroughly examined for the presence of congenital malformations. Detailed maternal history was recorded so as to evaluate association of various maternal risk factors with the congenital malformations. Collected data was analyzed on statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) software, a p value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.Results: A total of 3962 babies were delivered at GMC and Rajindra Hospital, Patiala during the study period. Out of this, 91 (2.29%) new-borns were identified with congenital malformations. The most common system involved was musculoskeletal 40 (43.9%) followed by central nervous system 24 (26.4%). Among maternal and fetal risk factors; parental consanguinity, maternal under nutrition/obesity, positive history of a congenital anomaly (CA) in the family, and still birth/intrauterine deaths and ambiguous sex of the newborn baby were significantly associated with higher frequency of CAs (p<0.05).Conclusions: Congenital malformations in new-borns becoming the emerging cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality after neonatal infections. Institution of preventive measures with more focus on young mother’s nutrition, provision of health education and early diagnosis of congenital malformations during antenatal period can help to curb the burden of this problem.
Incidence of hepatitis A in children with acute icteric hepatitis of district Shopian of Kashmir
Authors: Lone Rais Ahmad , Khurshid Ishfaq , Mushtaq Azhar
Published: June 2022

Background: Viral hepatitis is a major health problem worldwide. It is caused by at least five hepatotropic viruses, hepatitis A virus being the commonest one. The virus is responsible for most forms of acute benign hepatitis, although fulminant hepatic failure can occur. HAV spreads mainly through the fecal-oral route and hence is preventable by precautionary methods. Hepatitis A vaccine is available and highly effective in preventing disease. Objective of current study was to find the incidence of hepatitis A in children with features of acute icteric hepatitis of district Shopian of Kashmir.Methods: We sampled 83 children aged above 1 year to 17 years who attended the hospital for different features suggestive of hepatitis and evaluated them after proper and detailed history followed by relevant investigations and serology. Cases were labelled positive or negative on the basis of HAV IgM antibody.Results: We had 83 cases, 36 were boys (43.37%) and 47 were girls (56.62%). The girls made just more than a half of the cases and the boys just below half the cases. 13.25% (11 cases) were aged 1 to 4 years (none was below 2 years), 32.53% (27) were 4 to 7years, 32.53% (27) were 7 to 10 years, 16.87% (14) were 10 to 13 years, only 4.82% (4 cases) reported were 13 to 17 years. All 83 proved to be hepatitis A (100%).Conclusions: This study found that the incidence of hepatitis A in children with features of acute icteric hepatitis is very high in the children of district Shopian & a survey with a very large sample size will be ideal.
Study of clinical, haematological and radiological profile of children admitted with infantile tremor syndrome to a tertiary care teaching hospital in Northern India
Authors: Bajaj Mohit , Thakur Aakash , Sharma Jyoti , Sharma Milap , Pathania Sapna
Published: June 2022

Background: Infantile tremor syndrome (ITS) is characterized by gradual onset of mental and psychomotor changes, pigmentary disturbances in hairs and skin, pallor, tremors and neuroregression. The aim of study was to determine clinical, haematological and radiological spectrum of children admitted with infantile tremor syndrome.Methods: It was a prospective cross-sectional study done in age group of 6 months to 5 years conducted in department of pediatrics of a tertiary care medical college with duration of 18 months. Clinical, haematological and radiological profile parameters of 36 children admitted during study period with ITS were recorded as per prepared performa and analysed. Microsoft excel was used in creating database while data was analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0.Results: Total 36 children were enrolled in study. Mean age was 12.33±3.89 months and mostly were male (55.6%). Most (72.2%) of children belonged to lower socioeconomic status and (83.3%) were exclusively breastfed. Only 11.1% had severe acute malnutrition (SAM). 77.77% had vitamin B12 levels below normal. Progressive paleness (88.9%), delayed development (61.1%) and developmental regression (58.3%) were most common complaints reported. 63.9% had tremors at presentation. In MRI findings, poor myelination with thinning of corpus callosum (16.7%) and uniform thinning of corpus callosum with subtle hypomyelination in bilateral frontal lobes (8.3%) were major findings. In majority of children tremor disappeared in 11-15 days (30.6%) after starting treatment.Conclusions: ITS should to be considered as a differential diagnosis in an infant on exclusive breast feeding with vegetarian mother with poor weaning practices presenting with neuroregression, tremor and malnutrition with skin changes.
4D space-time contraction PK 2D Lorentz contraction
Authors: Tu Runsheng
Published: June 2022

Background：Special relativity treats a moving object as a rigid body and does not discuss the relativistic effects of the motion of the particles that make up the object. This unrealistic approach has misleading effects on the "application of special relativity" and the "concept of space-time". It is necessary to eliminate this misleading effect.

Methods：Considering the actual composition of moving objects, the effect of motion on mass is obtained according to the relativistic mass velocity relation, and then the actual relativistic motion effect is obtained.

Results：The volume of a non rigid body shrinks in all directions due to motion. This is inconsistent with the conclusion that the moving space contracts only in the direction of motion. When a non rigid body moves at a super high speed, the space around it will be distorted (even if the object is only inertial, the space is not guaranteed to be flat).

Conclusions：The actual composition and structure of a moving object cannot be ignored. The motion of space and the contraction of space due to motion are unrealistic. This leads to the doubt of the world view that "space has relativity".
Ectopic kidney: a rare case presentation
Authors: Jain Anubhuti , Shrivastava Archana , Malik Reeni
Published: June 2022

The ectopic kidneys are a rare developmental disorder. The ectopic kidneys are the result of the cessation of normal migration. The incidence of ectopic kidney is 1/12,000 clinical cases and 1/900 post-mortem cases. Such kidneys may be asymptomatic, show vague symptoms, or remain undetected for life. However, early detection of ectopic kidneys can prevent long-term complications. Here were present a case of 17-year-old adolescent with an ectopic kidney presented with an episode of intermittent pain in her left umbilical region for one year. A physical examination revealed a tender lump in the umbilical region of the abdomen. The USG showed a mass on the left side of the umbilical region, which could be an ectopic kidney. Computer tomography showed an ectopic kidney in the midline of the umbilical region. In addition, DTPA scans of the kidney showed that the left kidney showed inadequate function with delayed upper inflow tract. Urinalysis revealed urinary tract infection. Patient had mild degree of anaemia with low serum iron levels. The ectopic kidney was removed and sent to us in our lab. Histo-pathological examination was done and it revealed normal parenchyma of kidney. Ectopic kidneys should be included in the differential diagnosis in patients with abdominal pain and palpable lump in the abdomen. Early detection can prevent long term complications.
Determinants for small and medium enterprises and entrepreneurship success post COVID-19
Authors: Shrivastav Siddharth
Published: June 2022

COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant and multiple challenges for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). While SMEs have traditionally faced financial and non-financial crises, the pandemic has brought about additional uncertainties on how to maintain business continuity. The purpose of this paper is to examine how SMEs can mitigate against COVID-19-related crisis by examining the impacts that the pandemic has had on them through a review of 34 articles. The thematic analysis from the literature covered three overarching and inter-related challenges including: (i) cost and finance-related challenges, (ii) disruption of activities, and (iii) existential difficulties. This paper highlighted three major crises emerging out of the COVID-19 pandemic for SMEs. Cost-and finance-related challenges, disruption of SME activities amidst COVID-19 pandemic and Digital technologies. The paper’s value lies in addressing the gap between the espoused literature’s claim of the beneficial impact of new technological advancements and SMEs’ ability to survive in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 
Impact of COVID-19 on antimicrobial resistance: revealing the hidden threats
Authors: Zaawari Abdullah , Somireddy Harshini , Ameenul Khaliq Mohammed
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic, which was caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has impacted every area of life, including efforts concerning antibiotic resistance (AMR). Antibiotic usage in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) patients exceeded the incidence of bacterial coinfections and secondary infections during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting irrational and excessive prescribing. Even in settings with established antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs, weaknesses were seen regarding the optimal use and administration of antibiotics during the epidemic. This irrational use and prescribing threaten the future of antimicrobial use and imply the possibility of another pandemic caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens.

In this review, we summarized the important aspects of COVID-19's impact, specifically on antimicrobials and other aspects. Antimicrobial stewardship programs are to be reinforced if not already implemented in all hospital settings to guide antimicrobial selection. This could contribute to combating this emerging concern of antimicrobial resistance.
Explaining social determinants of health from a political economy of health and ecosocial perspective
Authors: Gunamany Susanna
Published: June 2022

Social determinants of health (SDH) is a common term used in public health and epidemiology. Public health researchers use social determinants of health to study various inequalities associated with health. Inequities in health involve systematic differences in health across population subgroups, thus changing the focus of influences from social interactions to societal characteristics. Several epidemiologic literatures focus on the social aspects of individuals and groups that are considered to influence the health status, which is conceptualized as 'average health'. Some studies look beyond the social factors affecting health; social determinants of health as arising from a social environment structured by government policies and status hierarchies, with social inequalities in health resulting from diverse groups being differentially exposed to factors that influence health, whereby 'social determinants', such as poverty, act as the 'causes of causes'. However, the most recent definitions of SDH include the factors such as political-economic systems, whereby health inequities result from the promotion of the political and economic interests of those with power and privilege and whose wealth and better health are achieved at the expense of those whom they subject to adverse living and working conditions. Hence, social determinants such as political-economic systems that prioritizes the highly concentrated accumulation of private wealth over the redistribution of power, property and privilege within and across countries constitute the 'causes of causes of causes'. In this paper, the concept of social determinants of health will be discussed in more detail, using two different theories of social epidemiology that focus on the SDH: the political economy of health and the ecosocial framework.
Factors involved in diagnosis delay and poor prognosis in laryngeal squamous carcinoma: a retrospective study about 86 cases
Authors: Othmane Benhoummad , Rochd Sara , Rizkou Fatimezzahra , Liquali Laila , Rochdi Youssef , Raji Abdelaziz
Published: June 2022

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma of head and neck seems to be the seventh most common histological type worldwide with a great morbidity and mortality rates. Multiple published papers studied the overall survival of laryngeal squamous carcinoma depending on different factors. The aim of the study was to analyze the different factors that could impact the patient and the professional delays, and hence analyze factors related to poor prognosis and overall survival rates.

Methods: Retrospective descriptive and analytic study between January 2015 and January 2020 in ENT-HNS department in university hospital Mohammed VI of Marrakech. All patients admitted for confirmed histologically with a primary laryngeal squamous carcinoma and who consented to this study were included in our study, grouping 86 patients.

Results: Age and denial of care were the factors related to patient delay (p=0.044), medical doctors (0.030), the first consult decision (0.044) and the malpractice (0.008) were statistically related to the professional delay. The multivariate analysis with disease specific survival found that the tumor location (p=0.022), the disease staging at diagnosis (0.047), the Charlson comorbidity index (p=0.017), the patient delay and professional delay (p<0.001) were associated to a poor survival rate.

Conclusions: Patient and professional delays are factors that could be controlled by emphasizing the importance of medical consult when presenting laryngeal symptoms and the essential role of primary care doctors during 1st consult and how crucial it is to make a full examination and even refer patients to specialist when malignancy is suspected.
Thyroidectomy in laryngectomy-rationale and extent
Authors: Shanmugam Subbiah , Raja Saktheeswaran
Published: June 2022

Background:  To study the incidence of thyroid gland invasion by laryngeal carcinoma (LC) and the risk factors that may predispose to thyroid gland involvement, aiding the surgeons to develop an evidence-based plan for the management of the thyroid gland during total laryngectomy.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with carcinoma larynx treated at government Royapettah hospital, Chennai between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2020, was done. The total number of final pathology reports retrieved from our hospital system for patients who met the inclusion criteria within the specified time frame was 43.

Results: The thyroid gland was found to be invaded by LC in 13 patients (30.2%). Three patients (3/13) had only microscopic involvement while 9 patients showed gross extension. Four pathological features were found to have Statistically significant association with the incidence of thyroid gland invasion by laryngeal carcinoma. Patients with primary tumor pathological stage T4a were 30/43, with 11 patients showing thyroid gland invasion. 20 patients had subglottic invasion by the LC, with 10 patients showing thyroid gland invasion. Poorly differentiated carcinoma incidence was 13, with 9 patients showing thyroid gland infiltration.

Conclusions: Several risk factors are associated with higher incidence of invasion of the thyroid gland by laryngeal carcinoma. Identification of these factors can help surgeons develop a surgical strategy for the management of the thyroid gland during total laryngectomy.
Correlation between subjective and objective outcomes of septoplasty in septal deviation
Authors: Goyal Lovraj , Swami Himanshu , Dutta Angshuman , Sahu P. K. , Bothra Jitendra
Published: June 2022

Background: Septal deviation is one of the leading causes of chronic nasal obstruction. Septoplasty is the procedure of choice for treating these patients. Depending on the patient’s perception and satisfaction the benefits of the surgery vary.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted at command hospital air force Bangalore in the department of ENT for a period of 2 years from 2018 to 2020 in 60 patients who underwent septoplasty. Preoperative and postoperative data were documented and analysed to get the results.

Results: On postoperative objective evaluation by diagnostic nasal endoscopy 47% of patient’s anatomical deviation was completely corrected while it was partially corrected in 53% of patients overall. Post-op subjective evaluation by evaluating mean modified nose obstruction symptom evaluation (NOSE) score also depicted a significant improvement (p<0.5). There was also a significant positive correlation between the subjective and objective outcomes of septoplasty in our study. On correlating the postoperative subjective and objective outcome individually in all the types of septal deviation, there was an improvement in mean modified NOSE score in all types of patients.

Conclusions: There was improvement in both subjective and objective outcomes postoperatively. Study concluded that modified NOSE scale addresses wider range of symptomatology and is a good tool for subjective assessment of septoplasty. Improvement in anatomical septal deviation was noted by diagnostic nasal endoscopy postoperatively in all types of septal deviation of patients in our study.
A prospective observational study of ototoxicity in head and neck cancers treated with chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Feshan Musarrat , Puthukudy Preetham A. , Devadass Brema
Published: June 2022

Background: Head and neck cancer is a major global health problem. Cisplatin has been widely used in the treatment of head and neck malignancies. Ototoxicity is considered as the primary outcome of interest and the type of hearing loss is the secondary variable of interest. The Chi-square test/Fisher’s exact test is used to test statistical significance. P value<0.05 is considered statistically significant. IBM statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22 is used for statistical analysis.

Methods: In this prospective observational study, 62 patients with head and neck cancers were evaluated for chemoradiotherapy-induced ototoxicity. The hearing assessment included air and bone conduction thresholds, frequency, and pattern of hearing loss. The assessment was done at baseline, at the end of treatment, and after 8 weeks of completion of chemoradiotherapy.  

Results: Results showed the mean age group to be, between 61 to 70 years. Gender distribution showed that 80.65% are males and 19.35% are females. The most common site of malignancy is the larynx (20.97%). Cisplatin is used in 51 patients (82.26%) and carboplatin in 7 patients (11.29%). Radiotherapy was given to 82.26% of the patients. Results showed an increased incidence of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) after 8 weeks of treatment. There was a statistically significant difference between pure tone average (PTA) values before treatment, at the end of treatment, and after 8 weeks of chemoradiotherapy.

Conclusions: Pure-tone hearing threshold was most affected at 8 kHz and sensorineural hearing loss at higher frequencies is the most common finding.
A neglected foreign body in oesophagus with an unusual presentation: a case report
Authors: S. Suhas S. , Vadva Chaitanya
Published: June 2022

Foreign body ingestion is clinical emergency in otorhinolaryngology practice which requires immediate proper management to ensure speedy recovery and reduce complications. Accidental ingestion of food based foreign bodies like fish and meat bones are common among adults. Penetration of these foreign bodies may cause vascular or suppurative complications which are rare; however, if present these can cause significant morbidity to the patient. We report a case of 60-year-old male patient who presented with painful right side neck swelling. The CT nscan neck revealed a foreign body penetrating oesophageal wall on either side leading to right cervical abscess and mediastinitis. Under general anaesthesia foreign body bone piece was removed by rigid oesophagoscopy. In conclusion, it is very important to elicit the history of accidental foreign body ingestion in patients who present with acute onset of neck swelling. Besides clinical examination, radiological imaging modalities are very useful in confirming the diagnosis, site localisation of foreign body and proceed with timely and appropriate management.
Laryngocele: a case report and review of 50 cases from literature
Authors: K. U. Raghavendra Prasad , Aboobaker Sana
Published: June 2022

Laryngocele is a benign dilatation of the laryngeal saccule with incidence of 1 in 2.5 million people per year. Known as a disease of trumpet blowers, laryngocoele mainly affects the older male population with occupational predisposition. We aimed to review a case of laryngocele in a 55-year-old merchant in terms of clinical presentation, radiographical features, other investigations and surgical management. The detailed description of the case of mixed laryngocele which was evaluated in the department of ENT, HIMS, Hassan will be given. Literature was reviewed for similar cases of this entity and was studied in terms of age, sex, location, treatment and outcome. Out of the 50 cases reviewed, majority were males with neck swelling being the most common clinical presentation. The 48 cases were treated surgically and most of the specimen displayed respiratory epithelium on histopathological examination. 8 specimens showed varied histopathological finding including 3 squamous cell carcinomas. One case recurred over a 6-month period follow up.
Outcome analysis of cross-pinning versus lateral pinning and various lateral pinning configuration in the treatment of displaced paediatric supracondylar humerus fracture
Authors: Paramasivam Deva , Ramachandran Thirunthaiyan , Ravindranath Tarun Prashanth , Raja Doraikumar , Sellakrishnan Aravindh
Published: June 2022

Background: Supracondylar humerus fracture accounts for 3% of all the paediatric fractures. Displaced fractures need usually closed but rarely open reduction and stabilization with k-wires by either cross or lateral pinning technique. Controversies prevail regarding the type of pinning which will reduce complications (such as ulnar nerve palsy and loss of reduction which will lead to cubitus varus deformity) and provides better functional and radiological outcome. The aim of study was to analyse outcomes of various pinning techniques in displaced supracondylar humerus fracture treatment.

Methods: This was a prospective study done in SRIHER, Chennai (January 2019 to September 2020) included children with displaced supracondylar humerus fracture (modified Gartland type 2B,3). Preop, postop and intraop assessment were done with respect to incidence of ulnar nerve palsy, Baumann's angle, Flynn criteria till 14 weeks postop period. The results of cross pinning and lateral pinning group were statistically compared.

Results: There were totally 37 (male-25, female-12) patients. Mean age was 5.6. The mean change in Baumann’s angle of cross pin and lateral pin group at 14 weeks postop period comparing immediate postop period were 4.13 and 4.15 degrees, which was statistically insignificant using Mann Whitney test (p>0.05). Flynn criteria at 14 weeks postop period between two groups were also statistically insignificant. Difference in Baumann’s angle at 14 weeks postop period between divergent (2.82) and parallel (5.53) pin group was statistically significant using Mann Whitney test (0.01). There were no cases of ulnar nerve injury in both the groups.

Conclusions: Lateral pinning technique with the use of 3 divergent pins for the treatment of displaced supracondylar humerus fracture gives stability as good as cross pin configuration and also avoids the risk of ulnar nerve injury.
Total hip resurfacing/replacement with metal-on-metal prosthesis in young patients: studying efficacy
Authors: Adil Syed M. , Deepak Dilip Kumar , Singh Anuj
Published: June 2022

Background: This prospective case series study was carried out to review the literature and compare the efficacy of usage of metal over metal prosthesis in young patients undergoing hip replacement versus conventional metal over polyethylene prosthesis.

Methods: The study was conducted at tertiary care hospital of Indian armed forces with sample size of n=25, to assess early functional outcome of total hip replacement with metal-on-metal prosthesis. Analysis was carried out in terms of improvement in functional status, pain relief, achieving greater range of motion and joint stability.

Results: Mean follow up period was 26 months. The average pre-op Harris hip score was 38.96. The average post-op and last follow up Harris hip score was 84.92 and 86.1. The average pre and post op Harris hip scores of the patients with Idiopathic AVN were 39.7 and 82.5 respectively and the average pre and post op Harris hip scores of the patients with post-traumatic AVN were 37.4 and 86.2. The average pre op and post op Harris hip scores of the patients with non union fracture neck of femur were 36.5 and 86.7 respectively. None of the patient had aseptic loosening, heterotopic ossification or migration of the components, stem failure. There were no cases of dislocation of prosthesis, aseptic loosening, osteolysis, heterotrophic ossification.

Conclusions: This observational study demonstrated better clinical acceptability and profile of metal on metal prosthesis in young patients, having undergone hip replacement.
Pure internal subtalar dislocation: review of 5 cases
Authors: Sidibe Mohamed , Bah Mohamed Lamine , Sylla Fode Mahamoud , Camara Minkailou , Soumah Alhassane , Ntungwanayo Serge
Published: June 2022

Pure subtalar dislocation is a rare injury. It accounts for 1% of dislocations seen in trauma. It involves a loss of anatomical relationship between the talus, calcaneus and scaphoid, but the tibio-peroneal-astragalic congruence is maintained.  The aim of this study was to find an explanation between the occurrence of subtalar dislocation in its medial variety and the Jakarta motorbike crash.  Five male patients who had fallen from a Jakarta motorbike were included. Two cases of open dislocation were reported. They received wound trimming under spinal anaesthesia. We proceeded to reduce the dislocation using a boot puller maneuver and restraint with a plaster boot. The postoperative course was simple with wound healing. The casting lasted 6 weeks but was extended to 8 weeks for open dislocations. After removal of the cast, rehabilitation was prescribed for all patients. This consisted mainly of proprioception in order to restore the functions of the ankle. At a mean follow-up of 25.2 months, the patients did not complain of pain or stiffness and the X-rays taken were normal.
Injectable platelet rich fibrin therapy for androgenetic alopecia: a series of 15 cases
Authors: Bhoite Ketki S. , Chikhalkar Siddhi B. , Mishra Sunil N. , Kharkar Vidya D.
Published: June 2022

Androgen dependent hair loss is the most common cause of progressive hair loss due to androgenetic miniaturization of hair follicles. Grade 1 and 2 of alopecia is managed well with topical and oral modalities, however grade 3 onwards the need adjuvant treatment arises. To evaluate the efficacy, safety profile and feasibility of injectable-platelet rich fibrin (I-PRF) in androgenetic alopecia and assess the patient satisfaction with this new treatment modality, we conducted a pilot study. Here, 15 patients of androgenetic alopecia were treated with injectable PRF and micro-needling at 2 weekly interval for 4 sittings with a background therapy of minoxidil, finasteride and multivitamin supplements. Monitoring was done with clinical photographs and dermoscopic evaluation prior to each session and a standard assessment questionnaire was given at the end of the study. A significant improvement in hair growth was observed clinically with positive score of 7.42 on the patient satisfaction scale and visible changes were noticed on clinical photographs and dermoscopy. Hence, we concluded that I-PRF is safe, easy, time and cost-effective adjuvant modality for managing androgenetic alopecia with some theoretical advantages over PRP.
Granuloma annulare of the external ear, a rare mimic of malignancy: two case reports
Authors: Haddad Afaf
Published: June 2022

Granuloma annulare (GA) is a granulomatous inflammatory largely cutaneous and less often subcutaneous condition with varied presentations ranging from localized to disseminated forms manifesting as erythematous papules or plaques affecting all ages and primarily involving the extremities. GA may affect other sites such as the face and cases limited to the orbit and ear are exceedingly rare. No consistent causative factor has been identified although there is an established association with diabetes mellitus, autoimmune diseases, infections, malignancies or localized trauma. The chief histological pattern of palisaded or interstitial granulomatous reaction is diagnostic, providing infections such as mycobacterium have been excluded. Standardized treatment is elusive and different modalities including local/intralesional steroids, cryo/photo/laser therapy or oral retinoids/antibiotics have been used with variable response. We report two cases of GA limited to the ear adding to the 13 previously published cases.
Basic approach to melanonychia: a review
Authors: Aseri Jatin , Kumawat Kanchan , Tamta Aatish , Bhargava Puneet , Meena Ram Singh
Published: June 2022

Melanonychia is a brownish-black staining of the nail plate. It can affect a single or several nails on both the fingers and toes. Melanocytic activation and melanocytic hyperplasia are the two basic mechanisms involved in the development of melanonychia. Melanocytic activation occurs as enhanced melanic pigmentation of the nail matrix epithelium and nail plate without a corresponding rise in the number of melanocytes, resulting in melanonychia. The number of matrix melanocytes increases in melanocytic hyperplasia. Involvement of a pathogen has also been suggested as a mechanism for its development. A thorough clinical history should be taken, including questions regarding various triggers and causal events, as well as the use of a questionnaire. A proper detailed physical examination is of a great need to properly identify the type of melanonychia and to rule out melanoma which is of great importance in clinical practice. Onychoscopy and nail biopsy also acts as an aid in proper diagnosis of melanonychia. Treatment of melanonychia basically depends on the underlying etiology. One major aim is to rule out melanoma if present and its proper management in time.
Кинетический расчет плазменно-воздушной и плазменно-паровой газификации твердых топлив
Authors: Умбеткалиев К.А. , Устименко А.Б.
Published: June 2022

В работе выполнен кинетический расчет процесса плазменно-воздушной и плазменно-паровой газификации куучекинского каменного угля в цилиндрических каналах с плазменным источником. Кинетические расчеты выполнены с помощью одномерной кинетической программой Плазма-Уголь. Результаты расчетов показали, что газовая фаза продуктов плазменно-воздушной газификации, начиная со значения координаты 0,15 м, представлена главным образом синтез-газом, концентрация которого на выходе реактора составляет 48,6%. При этом, концентрация монооксида углерода во всем диапазоне температур выше концентрации водорода. Их концентрация на выходе реактора составляет 31,2% и 17,5% соответственно. Газовая фаза продуктов плазменно-паровой газификации также представлена главным образом синтез-газом. На длине реактора, равным 0,15 м, концентрация синтез-газа составляет 93,9%, достигая практически 100% на выходе реактора.
Чистое сжигание твердого топлива с помощью плазменно-угольной горелки
Authors: Орынбасар М.Н.
Published: June 2022

Твердое топливо имеет большие шансы в будущем занять лидирующие позиции на энергетическом рынке с экологической и энергетической точек зрения. Развитие науки и техники позволяет использовать уголь с минимальными вредными выбросами, а также, глядя на достаточный запас на ближайшие годы, может сохранить энергетический баланс во всем мире. Этот вид твердого топлива является основным источником тепловых электростанций и может сохранить долгосрочно стабильную цену. Для сжигания низкореакционного топлива (угля) используются высокореакционные виды топлива (мазут или природный газ), которые приводят к различным экологическим и экономическим издержкам, изменению климата и загрязняют окружающую среду. Предоставляя инициативы по поиску альтернативы чистому сжиганию и с минимальными финансовыми затратами. Одной из перспективных технологий, которая представлена на различных международных выставках и широко используется в некоторых странах, является плазменная технология. Горелки, работающие на мазуте или газе, заменяются плазменно-угольной горелкой, которая дает низкотемпературную плазму с помощью плазмотрона. Температура плазменно-воздушного факела на выходе из плазмотрона в обычных плазменных горелках может достигать 5000 К, что позволяет полностью уничтожать вредные вещества в своей области.
Carbon Nanotubes Synthesized by CCVD Method using Diatomite and Shungite Minerals
Authors: Nazhipkyzy M. , Harris P.J.F. , Nurgain A. , Nemkayeva R.R.
Published: June 2022

In this work, carbon nanotubes were prepared using catalysts consisting of nickel particles supported on the naturally occurring minerals diatomite and shungite. The carbon source for the chemical catalytic vapour deposition (CCVD) synthesis was a propane-butane gas mixture. The synthesized multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were characterized using Raman spectroscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and the effect of temperature on their structure was investigated. The carbon content was determined by thermogravimetric analysis. In Raman spectra of CNTs the intensity ratio I(G)/I(D) for 650 °C is higher than that for 700 °C and then it begins to increase with increasing temperature. The results show that the diameter of CNTs which were synthesized on the surface of diatomite/shungite samples were in the range of 33–100.3 nm. The development of new methods for creating catalytic systems that allow controlling the structure of carbon particles is an important task leading to the improvement of existing approaches to the synthesis of CNTs with certain functional properties.
Oxidation of Vacuum Residue with the Addition of Crumb Rubber
Authors: Zhambolova A. , Ongarbayev Y. , Tileuberdi Y. , Teltayev B.
Published: June 2022

The actual problem of the oil refining industry is to improve the process of oxidation of heavy oil residues and the properties of oil bitumen. One way to solve the problem is to add modifiers. The addition of modifiers leads to an intensification of the oxidation process and an increase in the characteristics of the bituminous binders. The work aims to study the effect of adding rubber crumb on the process of vacuum residue oxidation and the properties of the obtained rubber-bitumen binders (RBB). The influence of the size of crumb rubber and its content, the mixing stage and oxidation modes on the properties of rubber-bitumen binders are determined. Vacuum residue from the Omsk oil refinery was used as a raw material, which was modified with crumb rubber with a dispersion of 0.6‒1.0 mm and less than 0.6 mm. The novelty of the research is the addition of crumb rubber to the vacuum residue and the oxidation process to obtain bitumen. The product of vacuum residue oxidation for 2 h at 260 °С with preliminary mixing of 2 wt.% crumb rubber with particle sizes less than 0.6 mm at 180 °С and additional mixing of 8 wt.% crumb rubber after oxidation corresponds to the brand of rubber-bitumen binder RBB 60/90. The rubber-bitumen binder is characterized by high elasticity and low Fraas point. Рrepared аsphalt concrete mixture based on RBB corresponded to type B according to physical and mechanical parameters. The complex shear modulus of the samples decreases with the temperature increase. Short-term aging resulted in increased shear modulus for all samples.