bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data-mining for adverse drug reaction signals of macitentan based on real-world data: pharmacovigilance study of the FAERS database
Authors: Wu Fan , ZHU HE
Published: August 2023

Background: The purpose of pharmacovigilance is the timely detection and
identification of harmful drug-related reactions in the clinical
application of drugs to reduce the risk of their clinical use.
Macitentan has been on the market for close to 10 years, during which
time several clinical studies have reported adverse events associated
with macitentan outside of the drug description and uploaded them into
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting
System.Aim: This study aimed to promote the safe use of macitentan by
mining and analyzing the adverse event signals of macitentan in the
FAERS database.Method： The proportionate disequilibrium method was used
to mine and analyze the FAERS database for macitentan-related adverse
events. Preferred Terms of ADR reports were categorized by System Organ
Class (SOC) based on the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities.
Results： A total of 32,607 macitentan adverse events were retrieved,
and after exclusion by the methodology developed in this study, a total
of 253 positive signals for AEs were obtained, and it was found that
macitentan may have potential new adverse reactions such as blood
potassium decreased(ROR [95% CI]= 3.51[3.10-3.98]), respiratory
failure(ROR [95% CI]=4.06[3.77-4.39]), epistaxis(ROR [95%
CI]=2.50[2.29-2.73]), and other potential adverse reactions in
addition to the adverse reactions that have already been reported in the
specification.Conclusion: Clinical attention is recommended for the new
adverse drug reactions to macitentan detected in this study.
Estimated glomerular filtration rate versus creatinine clearance to determine anticoagulant dosage after lower-limb orthopedic surgery
Authors: Watanabe Kouzou , Hasegawa Hiroki , Katoh Jun , Hayashi Yutaka , Saku Isaku , Ohshima Kazunori , Hishida Akira , Seki George , Ikegaya Naoki
Published: August 2023

Aim: This retrospective study aimed to determine whether different renal
function estimation formulas affect the incidence of venous
thromboembolism (VTE) and bleeding when anticoagulant dosages are
determined. Methods: The study included patients who underwent
lower-limb orthopedic surgery and were treated with anticoagulants
between January 2017 and March 2020 at Yaizu City Hospital. The
appropriateness of anticoagulant dosing was assessed using creatinine
clearance (CCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and
de-indexed eGFR without correction for body surface area, and the
incidence of VTE and bleeding was compared among the different renal
function estimation formulas. Results: The median values for body
surface area, CCr, eGFR, and de-indexed eGFR were
1.40m, 56.0mL/min,
73.0mL/min/1.73m, and 60.9mL/min, respectively. There
was no significant difference in the incidence of VTE among the
different renal function estimation formulas. However, when the
threshold for dose reduction or contraindication was determined by eGFR
rather than CCr, the incidence of bleeding was significantly higher in
the group that was overdosed in CCr (6.0% vs 25.7% p<0.05).
Similarly, when the threshold for dose reduction or contraindication was
determined by de-indexed eGFR rather than CCr, the incidence of bleeding
was significantly higher in the group that was overdosed in CCr (7.5%
vs 28.6% p<0.05). Conclusion: It is necessary to set the
dosage of anticoagulants based on CCr for patients with a small body
surface area in the field of orthopedics to avoid the risk of bleeding.
Effects of combined peanut shell and biochar application on soil nutrient content, CO 2 emission and bacterial community in dryland red soil of Southern China
Authors: Yu Xinyi , Wei Qian , Na Meng , Tian Chunjie , Xu Shangqi , Zhou Jihai
Published: August 2023

Dryland red soil in southern China faces challenges such as low
fertility, poor structure, and low crop yields. Returning crop straw to
the field can improve soil quality and microbial community structures.
However, rapid straw decomposition leads to priming effect and increased
soil mineralization. Biochar effectively mitigates soil emission and
enhances soil quality. Combining straw with biochar may further enhance
soil improvement but still needs verification. Thus, a one-year
laboratory experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of straw
combined with biochar on soil nutrient content, CO
emission flux, and bacterial community in barren red soil. Six
treatments were employed: control (CK), low-dose peanut shell addition
(S1), high-dose peanut shell addition (S2), biochar addition (BC),
low-dose peanut shell and biochar addition (S1BC), and high-dose peanut
shell and biochar addition (S2BC). The results are as follows: 1) Peanut
shell addition increased total nutrient content. Combined application
further improved nutrient content. Available nutrient content in peanut
shell treatments decreased, but biochar reduced the loss of available
nitrogen. 2) Peanut shell addition alone moderately decreased CO
emission flux, while combined treatment with biochar
further reduced CO emission flux and soil
mineralization. 3) Peanut shell addition influenced the community
structure of soil bacteria, especially at higher application rates.
Combined application with biochar stabilized the soil bacterial
community and mitigated the impact of peanut shell on community
structure. In conclusion, combining biochar and peanut shell mitigated
the negative effects of using straw alone, reduced available N loss, CO
emission, and bacterial fluctuation and improved
barren red soil effectively.
Unveiling the Molecular Dialogue between Monkeypox E8 Protein and Punicalagin: Pioneering the New Era of Natural Drugs
Authors: Tamang Buddhiman , Das Rohit , Bhattarai Anil , Karn Rohit
Published: August 2023

Monkeypox has recently surfaced as a public health issue, and the virus
has spread rapidly worldwide in the post-COVID-19 period. These emerging
infections hinder human health and the advancement of the global
economy. There are currently no authorized medications to treat this
condition. As a result, this study gap motivates us to seek a viable
inhibitor from a natural source. In the present study, 10 plant-derived
compounds and commercialized drugs respectively were subjected to
molecular docking and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations to identify
the potent inhibitor against MPXV E8 ectodomain protein. Punicalagin
showed a greater affinity for the target protein (-9.1 kcal/mol), and
maraviroc, among commercial drugs, had a binding affinity of -7.4
kcal/mol which was lower than punicalagin. MD simulations substantiated
this study and showed better stability of punicalagin with the target
envelope protein, compared to the control drug maraviroc. This finding
was validated by decreased RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA values with
increased H-bonding. Therefore, we could speculate that the
plant-derived natural compound, punicalagin can act as a potent
therapeutic against the MPXV.
DNA BARCODING FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF THE TAXONOMY OF THE FISH FROM CHILIKA LAGOON OF INDIA, ONE OF THE WORLD'S BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOTS.
Authors: Suryawanshi Rahul , Jogdand Rohidas , Nalage Dinesh
Published: August 2023

DNA barcoding is a technique in which species identification is
performed by generating DNA barcodes from a small fragment of the
mitochondrial genome. Here, molecular methods were used for assessment
of 226 barcodes belonging to 83 fish species from 83 genera, 39 families
and 21 orders of fishes with the average divergence within a species is
0.10%, 13.57% within a genus, and 17.33% within a family with
97–100% identity with comparison to the Genbank database and BOLD of
the Chilika lagoon India, using, Barcode gap analysis, barcode index
number and automatic barcode gap discovery, these methods had their
potential to discriminate 97.53%, 93.90% and 95.06%, of species
respectively. This is the first effort to generate the DNA barcode
reference library of freshwater fishes from Chilika lagoon of India, one
of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. These findings will contribute to
the barcode database of global marine fish species identification,
provide baseline data for fishes in Chilika Lagoon waters based on the
CO1 region, and serve educational purposes in universities, research
institutes, fishery managers, and fish stock assessment. The Barcode
Index Number (BIN) discordance report showed that 226 specimens
represented 83 BINs, of which 73.49%were taxonomically concordant and
26.50% were singletons and no discordant BIN found in our dataset.
A rare form of congenital erythrocytosis due to SLC30A10 biallelic variants: differential diagnosis and recommendation for biochemical and genetic screening.
Authors: Giannini Rosalinda , AGOLINI EMANUELE , Palumbo Giuseppe , Novelli Antonio , Garone Giacomo , Grasso Melissa , Colafati Giovanna , Matraxia Marta , Piccirilli Eleonora , Ceglie Giulia
Published: August 2023

There are several known forms of congenital erythrocytosis. Secondary
forms are usually associated with increased erythropoietin levels and
recognize heterogeneous genetic basis. Despite the use of NGS
technologies, more than 50% of congenital erythrocytosis cases are
still classified as idiopathic. Identifying the underling molecular
cause appears to be crucial when a therapeutic option is available,
especially if erythrocytosis is combined with progressive dysfunction of
other organs. Herein, we describe the case of a patient with a rare form
of congenital erythrocytosis due to bi-allelic mutations of SLC30A10
gene, responsible for a rare disease known as hypermanganesemia with
dystonia 1 (HMNDYT1).
A Real-life use of IV naxitamab for children with relapsed/refractory neuroblastoma
Authors: Iris Fried , Michael Weintraub , Dalia Waldman , Revel-Vilk Shoshana
Published: August 2023

The use of the anti-GD2 antibody naxitamab (Danyelza) is associated with
significant adverse effects (AEs) requiring complex supportive care.
Israel was the first country outside the USA in which Naxitamab use was
approved; however, experience with Naxitamab related toxicity is
limited. We report on the safety and feasibility of a simplified
administration protocol for naxitamab that will facilitate its use in
institutions with no prior participation in a naxitamab clinical study.
Methods: Between November 2021 and July 2023, 102 Naxitamab infusions
were administered to 9 patients at the Shaare Zedek Medical Center in
Jerusalem. Treatment was given as part of a compassionate use protocol
or following approval of the Israeli Ministry of Health (February 2022).
Patients received standard premedication, including paracetamol,
dipyrone, promethazine, saline bolus, and low-dose opiate. IV naxitamab
was given over 30 minutes. Ketamine was used as the only analgesic drug
used concurrently with the infusion of naxitamab . Results: Pain was
controlled in all cases and other AEs were reported in only 20/95
infusions (21%). Grade 3-4 AEs, including hypotension/ hypertension or
desaturation, occurred in 10/102 infusions (10%). All AEs were
transient, occurring in the first two treatment cycles, and no patient
stopped naxitamab therapy due to infusion-related AEs. Two additional
pediatric oncology centers in Israel have adopted a modified version of
this protocol. Conclusion: Single agent ketamine is a safe and effective
treatment for naxitamab-infusion-related pain. Its use is feasible in
multiple clinical settings. Significant infusion-related AEs after
completion of the 3 treatment cycle are rare.
A Possible Underground Roadway for Transportation Facilities in Kathmandu Valley Ring Road: A Racking Deformation of Underground Rectangular Structures
Authors: Sahani Kameshwar , Khadka Shyam , Sahani S. K. , Pandey Binay Kumar , Pandey Digvijay
Published: August 2023

The increasing number of private cars, public transportation vehicles,
and pedestrians, as well as the absence of adequate space for these
ground amenities, are the primary causes of traffic congestion and
accidents in the Kathmandu Valley. Investigations have indicated that
the Kathmandu Valley has the greatest traffic accidents despite the
heavy presence of government and its agencies there. Most teens and
young adults suffer injuries while using motor vehicles. The study’s
primary objective is to foresee and prevent such complications by
planning for sufficient subsurface infrastructure for the Kathmandu
valley’s transportation network. Overlying pressure, lateral earth
pressure, live load, uplift pressure, and live surcharge are some of the
forces acting on the tunnel, creating unique stress and moment zones.
The tunnel meets the following geometric requirements: a) each of the
tunnel’s two cells has a clear span of 10 meters and a clear height of
5.5 meters. The side walls, inner walls, top slab, and bottom slab are
all 700 mm thick. Soil has built up to a height of 4m over the tunnel’s
roof. Construction sequencing, the application of various loads during
construction, and expected service life are all taken into account
during the design process. Analytical and computer software (SAP 2000)
are both used in the tunnel segment’s analysis. Furthermore, the
designed tunnel has been evaluated for stability, considering the
deflection and shear resistance. The analysis indicates that the tunnel
meets the stability requirements, as the checks performed for deflection
produce satisfactory results. This implies that the structure is capable
of withstanding the applied forces without excessive deflection.
Collision Feedback-based Lateral Undulation Gait to Cross Different Obstacles for a Low-cost Serpentine Robot
Authors: Song Xingguo , Man Jinru , Lin Faming , Meng Xiangyin
Published: August 2023

When serpentine robots move in the complex and unstructured environment,
collisions between the serpentine robot and obstacles often impede its
movement. In this paper, collision feedback-based lateral undulation
gait is proposed, which utilizes collisions between the serpentine robot
and obstacles to change robot’s trajectory, or relies on obstacles to
guide the locomotion of the serpentine robot. When the robot’s head
collides with an obstacle, the direction of motion changes, the robot
performs global planning of the motion gait through steering control. An
angle adaptive control based on load feedback is proposed for local gait
planning of robots. When the robot joint load exceeds the set threshold,
the joint angle is adjusted in time to adapt to terrain changes.
Experiments are conducted to cross different obstacles using different
control methods, and comparisons are made in terms of energy loss and
motion rate. The experimental results show that this gait has the lowest
energy consumption while ensuring the robot’s motion rate.
How mantis shrimp compound eye recognizes circularly polarized light
Authors: Lou Fangrui , Qu Xiuyu , Schunter Celia , Wang Lin , Tang Yongzheng , Han Zhiqiang , Kang Bin
Published: August 2023

The mantis shrimps are the only animal species known to science that can
recognize circularly polarized light (CPL). Here we explored the
morphological and molecular mechanisms of CPL recognition in
Oratosquilla oratoria, a typical species of mantis shrimps.
Through multilayer microscopy, we discovered the cross-arranged
microvilli and the oval distal rhabdom to be the critical structures for
CPL recognition. Based on the specific expression patterns of
vision-related functional genes and proteins, we suggest that the order
of light utilization by O. oratoria compound eye was first
natural light, then left-rotation CPL (LCPL), linearly polarized light,
right-rotation CPL (RCPL) and dark. Meanwhile, we found that the
expression levels of vision-related functional genes and proteins in
O. oratoria compound eye under RCPL were not significantly
different from those in DL, and thus provide additional evidence that
mantis shrimp can only recognize LCPL. Furthermore, the recognition of
LCPL is likely facilitated by the differential expression of opsin and
microvilli - related functional genes and proteins (arrestin and
sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter). In conclusion, this
study systematically illustrated for the first time how O.
oratoria compound eye recognizes CPL, and it can improve the visual
ecological theory behind polarized light recognition.
Effects of Agro-climatic variation on floristic composition, structure and regeneration status in the Bale mountains national park, South-eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Ahmedin Annissa , Elias Eyasu
Published: August 2023

The Bale Mountains National Park (BMNP) is an internationally
significant biodiversity hot-spot area located in the Bale eco-region,
south-eastern highlands of Ethiopia. In spite of its huge ecological
importance, however, habitat degradation takes place at an alarming rate
at different agro-climatic zones and poses a severe threat to the
survival of most species. The aim of this study was to assess the
effects of agro-climatic variation on floristic composition and
structure and exploring the human-induced factors responsible for the
change in the ecosystems of the park. Sampling sites were selected by
means of purposive sampling to represent a wide range of agro-climatic
zones. A total of 144 sampling plots covering an area of 5.76 ha were
established on twelve parallel transect lines that were laid along the
three altitudinal gradient with four replications to draw representative
vegetation data. Mean species comparison across agro-climatic zones was
determined using one-way ANOVA and significant differences were reported
at 5% level of significance (p < 0.05). Result show that oth
species richness (76) and mean DBH of woody species (49.63 ± 1.34 cm)
were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the sub-moist mid
highland than cold humid afro-alpine zone (29), and in the cool moist
mid highlands (31 and 44.50 ± 1.42 cm, respectively). Similarly, the
density of seedling, sapling, and mature trees were significantly
(p<0.05) higher in the sub-moist mid highland compared to the
density in the cool moist mid highlands (3000–3400 m a.s.l). The study
concludes that the sub-moist mid-highland harbors most species and has
trees with higher DBH which requires protection against ecological
degradation due to human activities. The higher altitude such as the
cold humid afro-alpine zone is ecologically fragile and needs a
comprehensive natural resource management strategy that combines the
restoration and protection of natural ecosystem.
Microbiota associated with meiofaunal nemerteans reveals evidence of phylosymbiosis
Authors: Leasi Francesca , Eckert Ester , Norenburg Jon , Thomas W Kelley , Sevigny Joseph , Hall Jeff , Wirshing Herman , Fontaneto Diego
Published: August 2023

Phylosymbiosis, the association between the phylogenetic relatedness of
hosts and the composition of their microbial communities, is a
widespread phenomenon in diverse animal taxa. However, the generality of
the existence of such a pattern has been questioned, and there seems
evidence against its occurrence in small-sized aquatic animals, for
which the microbiota composition is mostly shaped by local environmental
factors. This study aims to investigate the microbial communities
associated with poorly known marine interstitial nemerteans to uncover
their microbiota diversity and assess the occurrence of phylosymbiosis.
Through a comprehensive approach, specimens from various Central
American sites were analyzed using morphology-based taxonomy and
molecular techniques targeting the host 18S rRNA gene whereas their
microbial association was analyzed by targeting the prokaryotic 16S rRNA
gene. Phylogenetic and statistical analyses were conducted to examine
the potential effects of host nemertean taxa and sampling locations on
the host-associated microbial communities. The results provide
compelling evidence of phylosymbiosis in meiofaunal nemerteans,
emphasizing the significant impact of host genetic relatedness on
microbiome diversity also in small-sized animals. Additional research is
needed to fully unravel potential symbiotic relationships as well as the
complex mechanisms that govern the relationships between hosts and their
microbiota across various organisms and ecological settings. The
remarkable diversity of meiofaunal animals, spanning various animal
phyla with different lifestyles and inhabiting diverse ecosystems,
combined with the advancements in multi-omics approaches, offers a
promising avenue for comprehensive understanding of the evolutionary and
ecological interactions between hosts and their microbiota throughout
the animal tree of life.
Unravelling Influenza A (H3N2): From Viral Evolution to Global Impact
Authors: SRIVASTAVA SHRIYANSH , Jayaswal Nandani , Kumar Sachin , Sharma Pramod , Rustag Sarvesh , Mohanty Aroop , Barboza Joshuan J. , Sah Ranjit
Published: August 2023

Influenza A (H3N2) virus, a prominent member of the Orthomyxoviridae
family, continues to pose significant challenges to public health
worldwide. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate facets of
H3N2, encompassing its virological characteristics, evolutionary trends,
global epidemiology, clinical manifestations, immunopathology,
vaccination strategies, antiviral interventions, and emerging diagnostic
approaches. The evolution and genetic diversity of H3N2 strains are
explored in the context of antigenic variation, a phenomenon fueled by
genetic drift and shift mechanisms. The implications of such variability
on vaccine design and effectiveness are critically analyzed. Moreover,
this review examines the broader public health ramifications of H3N2,
elucidating its seasonal outbreak patterns, pandemic potential, and the
intricacies of global spread. Detailed insights into the clinical
presentation and pathogenesis highlight the interplay between viral
factors and host immune responses, shedding light on disease severity
and susceptibility determinants. The armamentarium of antiviral
therapies, encompassing neuraminidase inhibitors and polymerase
inhibitors, is evaluated along with the emerging challenge of drug
resistance. Notably, this review underscores the evolving landscape of
diagnostic techniques, ranging from rapid point-of-care tests to
advanced molecular methods, and their pivotal role in timely outbreak
detection and surveillance. Looking ahead, the article accentuates the
need for multidisciplinary approaches in deciphering viral evolution
dynamics, targeting host-pathogen interactions, and refining pandemic
preparedness strategies. By synthesizing these diverse dimensions, this
review encapsulates a holistic understanding of Influenza A (H3N2) that
informs both research endeavors and public health interventions.
Assignment of NMR spectral data of diastereomeric tetrahydrofuranyl acetals directly from their mixture by spectral simulation
Authors: Nesic Milan , Nesic Milica , Radulovic Niko
Published: August 2023

In this study, an NMR spectral analysis of the mixture of diastereomeric acetals, synthesized from 2,3-dihydrofurane and a racemic mixture of citronellol, was performed. 1H-NMR full spin analysis was achieved by manually adjusting ?H and J values (previously calculated using the Spartan software) to fit the experimentally available values, followed by further optimization using MestreNova software. The simulated 1H- and 13C-NMR spectra of individual diastereomers, as well as their superimposed and summed spectra, were compared with the obtained experimental spectra. Spin simulation of proton signals was particularly useful for the assignment of the diastereotopic protons of tetrahydrofuranyl moiety and diastereomer discrimination. The NMR spectral data of individual diastereomers ? chemical shifts, coupling constants, HMBC and NOESY interactions were systematized in appropriate tables and schemes. To the best of our knowledge, this is for the first time that the complete assignment of tetrahydrofuranyl moiety was performed, and the data obtained herein may be of great importance for the utilization of this protecting group in the future.
Cytoplasmic and mitochondrial isoenzymes of malatedehydrogenase in psoriatic epidermis
Authors: Swanbeck G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Phagocytic activity of neutrophil leucocytes in pustulosis palmo-plantaris, chronic discoid lupus erythematosus and erysipelas
Authors: Molin L. , Rajka G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Electron microscopic study of keratoacanthoma
Authors: Takaki Y. , Masutani M. , Kawada A.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Borderline" lepromatous leprosy"
Authors: L. Molin
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Erythro-keratodermia congenitalis symmetrica progressiva?
Authors: S. Lidén
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Hyaluronate (?) microfibrils in human dermis
Authors: Kobayasi T. , Danielsen L. , Asboe-Hansen G.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
The occurrence of distinctive intramitochondrial granules in epidermal Langerhans cells and dermal mononuclear cells
Authors: EG Thorne , JH Mottaz , AS. Zelickson
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Lysosomes in Keratinocytes after tape stripping
Authors: JH Mottaz , EG Thorne , AS. Zelickson
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of epidermal melanocytes of caucasian and negro skin
Authors: G Agrup , B Falck , H Olivecrona , H. Rorsman
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Increased formaldehyde-induced fluorescence of epidermal melanocytes in pregnancy
Authors: H Rorsman , NO. Sjöberg
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Epidemiology of gonococci with decreased sensitivity to penicillin in Malmö, South Sweden
Authors: Möller H.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available
Biochemical characterization and tissue distribution of the scleredema in a case of Buschke´s disease
Authors: Roupe G , Laurent TC  , Malmström A , Suurküla M  , Särnstrand B
Published: August 2023

Biopsies from a patient with a longstanding form of scleredema adultorum Buschke were analysed for morphological and biochemical changes in the dermal connective tissue. By light microscopy the tissue changes were located to the deep part of the reticular dermis. Therefore dermal tissue was separated into a superficial and a deep part and analysed biochemically. By this procedure it was possible to show that the concentration of hyaluronan in the deep part of the dermis was increased. The urinary excretion of methylimidazole acetic acid, an indicator of the mast cell mass in the body, was also elevated.
Oral challenge with nickel and cobalt in patients with positive patch tests to nickel and/or cobalt
Authors: Veien NK , Hattel T  , Justesen O , Nørholm A
Published: August 2023

During a 3-year period, 146 patients with positive patch tests to nickel and/or cobalt, for whom a systemic cause of dermatitis was suspected, were challenged orally with a single dose of 2.5 mg nickel given as nickel sulphate and 1 mg cobalt given as cobalt sulphate using a double-blind, placebo-controlled method. No following-up was possible for 2 patients. Seventy-five of the remaining 144 (52%) had flares of their dermatitis after challenge with nickel and/or cobalt, while 45 patients (31%) had no reaction and 24 (17%) reacted only to the placebo or to the placebo in combination with nickel or cobalt. Seven out of 13 patients with positive patch tests to cobalt experienced flares of their dermatitis only after challenge with cobalt.
Delayed tissue necrosis due to mitomycin C
Authors: Aizawa H , Tagami H.
Published: August 2023

We report about a patient having received intravenous mitomycin C without evidence of tissue injury until three months following its extravasation. After drinking alcoholic beverages 3 months later he developed a severe ulcer at the site of the previous extravasation. There are only a few reports about such extravasation ulcers occurring a long time after the injection.
In vitro testing of contact sensitivity
Authors: Tjernlund U , Scheynius A  , Strand A
Published: August 2023

A new in vitro technique for the testing for contact sensitivity is described. The method is based upon the fact that in response to immunological stimuli, keratinocytes can start to synthesize and express class II histocompatibility antigens. Nickel sulphate (NiSO4) stimulated lymphocytes from nickel-sensitive persons, and the supernatant of these cells thus induced expression of HLA-DR on keratinocytes when co-cultured with autologous normal skin biopsies. This was in contrast to what was the case in healthy controls.
Is Uvula Important? Absence of Uvula: An Accidental or an Incidental Finding
Authors: J Vivek
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Absence of the uvula is very rare in the general population, which is mostly acquired secondary to surgery or is rarely congenitally absent since birth. Uvula is a small band of connective tissue, gland and small muscle fibers and is documented to be useful in speech, lubrication and central support of the palatopharyngeal arch during swallowing. Cultural practice of uvulectomy is very common in African countries as a treatment or prophylactic measure for chronic cough or frequent respiratory infection. Congenital absence of uvula is a rare condition and is also accompanied by other genetic abnormalities such as cleft lip or cleft palate. Case Report: This case report is based on an accidental finding in a 20-year-old African-American male who was acting as a standardized patient in a clinical course at a medical college. Conclusion: This is one of the rare cases of absence of uvula without any other congenital or genetic abnormality to be reported in medical literature.
Bilateral Giant Opthalmic Carotid Artery Aneurysms Presenting as Unilateral Diplopia: A Case Report
Authors: S Lafci Fahrioglu
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The etiology of giant aneurysms is multifactorial. It becomes symptomatic in 9/100.000, most frequently in the fifth and sixth decades of the life. Intracavernous carotid artery aneurysms (ICAAs) represent less than 1% of intracranial aneurysms and show a slight female predominance. Case-Report: We report an interesting case of bilateral ICAA in 42-year-old female presented as acute diplopia and emphasize the need of a thorough systemic evaluation in young patients with diplopia and treated with endovascular coil embolization. A 42-year-old woman was admitted to the neurology department suffering from the unilateral diplopia. Neurological examination showed the left sixth cranial nerve palsy and had no further general motor or sensory symptoms. Digital Subtraction Angiogram (DSA) showed bilateral ophthalmic artery aneurysm. The patient was treated with endovascular loose packing coil embolization and Derivo 3.5x30mm flow diverter stent. Conclusion: It should be kept in mind that intracavernous carotid artery aneurysms may be bilateral in patients with unilateral cranial nerve symptoms.
Anatomical Variations of Internal Iliac Artery and Internal Iliac Vein and their Clinical Significance
Authors: U Gerema
Published: August 2023

Pelvic cavity is bounded by three bilateral pairs of bones (pubis, ilium and ischium) and two posteriorly located bones (sacrum and coccyx). Different organs lie in complicated juxtaposition in the pelvic cavity, including vessels, nerves, muscles, urogenital organs, and the rectum. Such configurations of these organs are difficult to comprehend for many surgeons to perform advanced surgery for cancers that arise in urological, gynecological organs or rectal cancer. Also procedure like sacrectomies and lateral pelvic compartment exenterations, isolating the external and internal iliac veins within the presacral area is crucial to avoid inadvertent injury and severe hemorrhage. This study review anatomic variations of internal iliac artery and internal iliac vein and their clinical significance. We found some rare patterns, which should be considered during surgery. These will benefit our understanding of pelvic anatomy and enhance safety in performing radical surgery for treating pelvic diseases; increase knowledge regarding the internal iliac artery and its branches is helpful in applying ligatures safely during pelvic surgeries which is essential to minimize intraoperative blood loss and other complications.
Computerized Tomographic Study of Normal Evans Index in Adults at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North West Ethiopia, Gondar 2019
Authors: A Agegnehu
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Evans indexis one of the most important parameter in diagnosis of hydrocephalus, follow up cases of ventriculoperitoneal shunt, dementia and numerous other pathologies. In this situation, having a standard reference value of the Evan’s index will be supportive in a wide extent of clinical pathologies. The main objective of this study was to establish normal values for Evans index in a population of North West Ethiopia as there is no study found in Ethiopian medical literature. Methods: Computerized tomographic brain scans of 169 normal subjects were reviewed. Evan’s index was measured as the direct proportion of the most extensive frontal horn tips diameter of the cerebral lateral ventricles to the most extensive internal distance across the cranium. Results: In this study, 123(72.78) of the patients were males and 46 (27.22%) were females; their ages ranged from 18 to 79 years with a mean age of 40 years. The mean value for Evans index for the studied population was 0.262 ± 0.03. The Evan’s index increased with age and it was slightly higher among males. The difference in Evans value in males and females was not statistically significant. People over 60 years old had the highest Evans values in both genders. Conclusion: This study found the ranges of normal value for Evans index in north west Ethiopian population. It agrees with the diagnostic cut-off value of > 0.3 for hydrocephalus.
Famous World Anatoms in the Reflection of Ukrainian Philately
Authors: KA Bugaevsky
Published: August 2023

The article presents the results of the study on reflection, exclusively, in the phylatelicual materials of Ukraine of different years, postage stamps, envelopes, small vintage sheets dedicated to world-famous anatomists. Illustrative materials of the article are supplemented with the necessary text comments to them. The textual and illustrative materials have been divided by the author into different historical periods, beginning with the presentation of the scientific activities of anatomists in ancient Greece, in the Arab East, in the periods of the middle Ages and the Renaissance, and further, including the period from the 17th to the 20th century. In addition, all the illustrative philatelic material presented in this article is actively supplemented by textual biographical data, containing brief information about the scientific and practical activities of each of the scientists and anatomists represented in the article.
To Study the Morbidity Pattern of Patients Attending the Ophthalmology OPD of Tertiary Eye Care Centre with Reference to Age
Authors: V Shah
Published: August 2023

Background: Vision is the most important special sense in human being. Normal vision is essential for normal physical, mental, psychological development and education. In developing countries like India lower socioeconomic status and lack of proper eye care are responsible for increase in the number of preventable and avoidable causes of blindness as compared to developed countries of the world therefore early detection and treatment of ocular morbidity is important. Aim: To assess the morbidity pattern of ocular disease with respect to age, this will show the trend of ocular morbidities in different age groups. Material and Method: The entire patient in ophthalmology OPD of tertiary eye care center in the past 1 year, were enlisted in this study with their consent. The patients were seen in ophthalmic OPD by ophthalmologist, proper anterior and posterior segment evaluation was done. Patients were divided into different groups according to the age and diagnosis of the disease. Result: Majority of the patients 16441 (46.05%) were found to be in the age group of 31-60 years which shows that common eye diseases are usually linked with age. There was a high prevalence of refractive errors 12098 (33.89%)in the age group till 60 years and cataract 5206 (14.58%) in age group of more than 60 years. Conclusion: It has been observed that majority of patients attending the ophthalmology OPD were between the age group of 31-60 years and beyond and majority were suffering from refractive errors and cataract. Thus this study gives the picture of morbidity pattern of ocular disease in the tertiary health care centre, which is helpful in planning and management of the diseases and denotes that creating awareness among the population is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment of these diseases
How to Safeguard Against Litigations and Consumer Cases during the Medical Practice?
Authors: V Sharma
Published: August 2023

Medical professionals are now accountable to the public under the Consumer Protection Act (COPRA), 1986, which came into force in 1988. The act recognizes a consumer's right to safety, information, choice, redressal, consumer education and to be heard. The inclusion of medical services under COPRA has evoked scathing criticism from the medical professionals, which argues doctors will have to practice "Defensive Medicine" while treating/operating patients, and undertake multiple consultations. Medical professionals will also be forced to insure themselves heavily against malpractice suits.
Isolated Lower Motor Neuron Facial Nerve Palsy as a Presenting Sign in COVID-19 Associated Orbital Mucormycosis Patients: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: R Agrawal
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to emphasize that isolated facial nerve involvement can be the first presenting symptom in patients suspected of COVID-associated Mucormycosis (CAM). Methods: This study is a retrospective observational study conducted at a tertiary care referral center which included patients with a history of CAM, who presented with isolated facial nerve palsy as initial presentation between March 2021 to March 2022 along with their follow-up. All the patients were managed with combined modality treatment with antifungal therapy and debridement of the necrotic tissue and fungal debris. Results: There were 184 eyes of 148 patients diagnosed with CAM. All patients developed rhino-orbital mucormycosis (ROM) following the COVID-19 infection and the duration between diagnosis of COVID-19 and ROM was 36±23 days. 42(28%) patients presented with isolated Facial Nerve Palsy (FNP) as the initial presentation. The mean age was 48.5 years (range 38 to 67years) with a male predominance of 29 (69%). All were unilateral cases and were of Lower motor neuron type presentation. All the patients (100%) were treated with systemic Liposomal amphotericin-B and sinus debridement. At a mean follow-up of 13.1 months, 19 (45%) of the patients had improvement in Facial Nerve function and 23 (55%) had static functioning. None of them had worsened. With medical intervention and tarsorrhaphy, the corneal condition was improved in all patients. Conclusion: Isolated FNP is an unusual but important sign in the presentation of mucormycosis which can be misdiagnosed with a cerebrovascular accident leading to delay in the management. This is a large case series with isolated FNP in CAM cases. A high index of suspicion for mucormycosis in diabetic patients presenting with isolated facial palsy can save the life and salvage the eye.
Retinopathy of Prematurity: Risk Factors, Recent Trends of Screening and Outcome of Treatment in a Tertiary Care Eye Hospital of Bangladesh
Authors: Syeed Mehbub Ul Kadir
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To determine the associated risk factors, current methods of screening and treatment outcome of ROP in a tertiarylevel eye hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in the OPD, Pediatric care unit of a tertiary eye hospital, among 167 babies from October 2014 to June 2019. The initial examination was done either at four weeks of birth or 31 weeks post-conceptually, whichever was earlier. After taking consent, a detailed history was taken. Before the fundus examination, mydriasis was achieved, and indirect ophthalmoscopy was done under topical anesthesia. In favorable cases, staging of ROP was done with subsequent follow-up. As per ETROP indication, either laser photocoagulation or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injection or both were given for treatment. Later these babies were followed up to see the outcome. Results: Out of 167 babies, we had two groups after the 1st screening; 76 babies (45.5%) fell in the ROP group and 91 babies in the No ROP group. On subsequent screening, 28 babies had spontaneously regressed ROP, leaving 48 in the ROP group who required treatment. The male gender was predominant in both groups (52.6% and 56.04%, respectively). Type 1 ROP was the most prevalent. Oxygen therapy (93.4%) of variable duration and neonatal jaundice (52.6%) were the top two risk factors of ROP in this study. Sixty-five babies (38.9%) fell into a group of birth weight 1000-1500 grams, and 81 (48.5%) had a gestational age of 28-32 weeks. As a treatment, the majority with ROP (21 cases) received laser therapy. In the final follow-up, refractive errors are the most common outcome after treatment of ROP. Conclusion: The available care for ROP varies, and visual disability is mainly preventable when detected and treated in time. With limited resources and expertise, the screening and treatment of ROP implemented in Bangladesh showed some satisfactory outcomes; a longer follow-up would give a more detailed evaluation of the impact of this treatment on the visual status.
A Rare Case of Evans Syndrome Associated With Optic Neuritis: A Case Report
Authors: DBD Miranda
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To report a case of Evans Syndrome associated with severe optic neuritis. Case Report: HAF, male, 26 years old, diagnosed with Evans Syndrome at the age of nine, with a history of headache and right eye pain with worsening movement. Fifteen days after the initial condition, visual clouding and decreased visual acuity began. Ophthalmological examination revealed visual acuity of 20/200 in the right eye with progressive worsening as the condition progressed; and 20/20 in the left eye. Visual field with absolute scotomata in the right eye and relative and absolute scotomatous points in all quadrants of the left eye. Gluorescein angiography findings included optic disc attenuation, without hyperfluorescent lesions. Conclusion: Evans Syndrome is a pathology that is gradually expanding in the field of clinical research, which has allowed new concepts related to pathogenesis and association with other comorbid conditions. In this case, we report the association with unilateral Optic Neuritis, responsible for progressive visual loss. Such knowledge aggregates the scientific community and translates into the need for an early multidisciplinary approach.
Non-Surgical Pneumatic Repair of Stage 2 Macular Holes
Authors: D Shukla
Published: August 2023

Purpose: We report anatomical and functional outcomes of gas injection for small-medium full thickness macular holes (FTMH) with vitreomacular traction (VMT). Methods: This retrospective-comparative case series included patients with stage 2 FTMH who underwent intravitreal injection of perfluoropropane (C3F8) or sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) gas. Clinical evaluation included B-scan ultrasonography and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess post-procedure MH closure, vitreous status, and visual outcomes. Results: There were five men and seven women with a mean age of 63.75 years (range: 54-76). The median duration of symptoms was 8.5 months (range: 2-52 months). The mean BCVA at presentation was 0.51 LogMAR (Snellen equivalent 20/65). The mean macular hole aperture size was 206 (range: 127-334). In eight (67%) patients, FTMH closed after gas injection. All the four open holes underwent vitrectomy. The median follow-up was 11 months (range: 2-53 months). At the last follow-up, all the patients had type 1 MH closure; BCVA improved in 10 (83%). The mean post-treatment BCVA was 0.28 LogMAR (Snellen equivalent 20/38). One patient developed retinal tears, which were successfully treated with barrage laser photocoagulation. Conclusion: Intravitreal gas injection is a valid treatment modality for non-surgical macular hole closure, especially in smallmedium FTMH. Gas-assisted PVD induction and release of VMT provides a viable option for patients unwilling/unfit for vitrectomy, with no carry-over disadvantage in subsequent surgery in case of macular hole non-closure.
Impact of COVID-19 on Ophthalmic Pathology
Authors: Hanbazazh Mehenaz
Published: August 2023

The Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) remains a significant concern to the public and a major challenge to healthcare workers. Although vaccination programs are generally regarded as successful, recent reports have shown that vaccine effectiveness is decreasing gradually, particularly as booster uptakes are low. The next pandemic is unpredictable and inevitable. Therefore, understanding the impact of COVID-19 on different aspects of healthcare will aid in adaptation to life with pandemics and enable prioritization of medical treatment. The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak significantly changed all sectors of healthcare. Ocular oncology and pathology practices were adapted to adjust to the many new challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presented. This review highlights laboratory modifications and shows how the number, type, and histology of eye oncology cases were impacted during the pandemic.
Sudden Death among Medical Professionals: How to Reverse this Trend?
Authors: SK Pandey
Published: August 2023

During the past few years, the sudden death of young medical professionals in India shocked the entire medical fraternity. Recently, the sudden demise of several young doctors due to massive myocardial infarction came as shocking sad news for medical colleagues. Similarly, few young, highly skilled and talented doctors succumbed before age of 45 years. Sudden early deaths have frequently been reported among medical professionals during the past few years. This indicates an alarming trend of the sudden death of doctors and is also closely associated with stress/burnout, a sedentary lifestyle, long working hours, and socio-economic factors.
Bilateral Sclerochoroidal Calcifications: A Case Report
Authors: F Guido
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The aim of this case report is to describe a rare condition of bilateral sclerochoroidal calcification Case Report: A 79 years old asymptomatic Caucasian female was referred to our Ocular Oncology Center of the Ophthalmic Surgery Department of Pisa on November 2021. She was in apparent good health. Funduscopic examination revealed yellowwhite irregular lesions in the supero-temporal quadrant of both eyes. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/20. B-scan and A-scan ultrasound revealed hyper-echoic solid lesions with acoustic orbital shadowing measuring 1.5 mm in thickness and 4.6 mm in diameter, on average. Enhanced Deep Imaging Optical Coherence Tomography showed a scleral lesion compatible with the presence of deposition of calcium with Table Mountain and rolling pattern. Fluorescein angiography revealed hypofluorescence in the arterial phase and a mild hyper-fluorescence in the venous phase with persistent late staining. Indocyanine green angiography showed hypo-fluorescence at the early, middle, and late phases. Systemic investigation of calcium and phosphate metabolism was performed and the patient didn’t display any underlying systemic disorder. Conclusion: It is important to know and recognize this condition. Although most cases of sclerochoroidal calcifications may be idiopathic, systemic laboratory workup must be performed to exclude calcium-phosphate metabolic disorder that can be associated to these ocular signs. Given the rare possible development of choroidal neovascularization, regular imaging checkup is recommended.