bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De l’emprise à l’empreinte : cartographier la donnée AIS pour qualifier l’occupation de l’espace maritime caribéen
Authors: Le Berre Iwan , Foulquier Eric , Le Guyader Damien , Iphar Clément , Sahuquet Manuel , Lopez Pascal Jean
Published: July 2024

Cet article propose une première exploitation d'une base de données massives visant à décrire l’occupation de l’espace maritime par les navires marchands dans la Caraïbe. Cette occupation est résolument polymorphe du fait des activités maritimes et des types de navires qui y participent. Pour rendre compte de la diversité des géographies qui en découlent, nos travaux reposent sur une analyse désagrégée rendue possible grâce aux données de surveillance du trafic maritime AIS (Automatic Identification System). En développant une base de données multi-sources intégrant des données AIS couplées à des bases d’identification des navires et de caractérisation des terminaux portuaires, nous avons pu analyser les trajectoires maritimes des navires au cours d’une année entière et à l’échelle de la Grande Région Caraïbe pour en restituer les principales routes et escales. Les résultats de cette analyse exploratoire mettent en lumière la variabilité de l’emprise spatiale du transport maritime selon la nature des marchandises transportées (vrac sec ou liquide, conteneurs, passagers de croisière ou inter-îles, navires de service). Cette base de données se révèle donc être un outil précieux pour mieux appréhender les pressions environnementales générées par les différentes filières du transport maritime, en mer, le long des côtes et dans les zones portuaires, sur les écosystèmes, les territoires riverains et leur population.
Aqueducs et alimentation en eau des établissements gallo-romains. Les exemples de Castelnaudary et de Sauvian
Authors: Pomarèdes Hervé , Ranché Christophe , Dominguez Cécile , Compan Michel
Published: July 2024

Deux sites ruraux sont l’objet de cet article. Le premier est celui de Castelnaudary (11) Villelongue Aqueduc (ou Bartissol), le second celui de Sauvian (34) « La Lesse/Espagnac Est ». Ces deux fouilles ont permis la mise au jour de structures d’adduction d’eau de type aqueducs en contextes privés. Pour le premier, on a pu reconnaitre la structure sur plus de 215 mètres, depuis son captage avec au moins deux regards identifiés ; sa destination a été observée lors d’une phase de diagnostic. Le second a été identifié lors de la fouille d’une villa, qu’il ne dessert pas, mais contourne. Pour le deuxième site, si le captage et la destination n’ont pas été déterminés, des hypothèses ont néanmoins été émises au vu des connaissances de l’environnement archéologique et géographique. Un rapide tour d’horizon des connaissances sur la Narbonnaise et en Languedoc occidental (vallée de l’Aude) est ainsi proposé.
La distribution de l’eau à Perpignan au Moyen Âge. Confrontation des sources archéologiques, textuelles et iconographiques
Authors: Bergeret Agnès , Catafau Aymat
Published: July 2024

Un diagnostic archéologique sur le parvis de l’église Saint-Jean à Perpignan a permis de retrouver les vestiges d’une fontaine (terres cuites, galets et empreinte de bassin), témoin de l’urbanisme médiéval de ce secteur. Le peu de données documentaires sur ce type d’équipement hydraulique dans cette ville (pas de trace écrite antérieure au XIVe siècle) rend encore plus précieuse cette découverte, ainsi que celle d’un exceptionnel dessin du XVIIe siècle (cf. « Un schéma de distribution d’eau à Perpignan (XVIIe siècle) ») sur le réseau d’adduction d’eau de Perpignan dans les quartiers situés entre l’actuelle place Cassanyes et l’église Saint-Jean. L’archéologie complète les informations textuelles en mettant en évidence des réseaux d’adduction d’eau (cf. « Un système de drainage des eaux pluviales à Carcassonne »).
Les adductions de Meaux. Rapprochement des sources archéologiques et textuelles
Authors: Bauchet Olivier , Couturier David , Paccard Nathalie
Published: July 2024

L’article se propose de faire le point sur l’état des connaissances dans le domaine de l’alimentation en eau à Meaux depuis l’Antiquité jusqu’à l’époque moderne. Une adduction d’eau sur le site de l’hôpital de Meaux est à l’origine des recherches sur ce thème, englobant l’étude historique et le recensement des découvertes anciennes. Deux aqueducs ont été reconnus, l’un dans la plaine de Saint-Faron, l’autre sur la commune de Villenoy, et un seul point de distribution a été localisé. Pour l’époque médiévale et moderne, des canalisations en terre cuite correspondant à des réseaux de distribution ont été mises au jour. Les travaux d’érudits locaux des XVIIe et XVIIIe siècles compensent les lacunes archéologiques pour la période médiévale, et les sources écrites ainsi que des plans documentent les adductions modernes. Les réseaux d’évacuations restent encore à découvrir.
Transient Stability Analysis of an Integrated Photovoltaic Systems in a Power System
Authors: Mzebetshana Sibonakaliso , Sarma Rudiren
Published: July 2024

Integration of PV systems into the grid is growing rapidly around the world, and PV penetration plays a huge role in minimizing the effect of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and also contributes to minimizing the impact of load shedding. However, PV systems contribute to grid integration issues such as transients, voltage, and frequency instabilities and reductions in the generator's inertia, respectively; therefore, it is essential to investigate the effect of the PV system on the grid before integrating it. This paper utilized a modified IEEE 9 bus system to investigate the impact of large-scale PV on the power system, and PSCAD software has been used for this study. Four scenarios with different PV penetration levels were considered in this paper. Moreover, for each scenario, the transient stability was assessed based on five parameters, namely: active power, reactive power, rotor angle, rotor speed, and the terminal voltage. Scenario 1 examines the PV systems integrated into a single bus and finds that the optimal PV penetration is 60% of the total power generation. Scenario 2 investigates the effect of integrating PV systems using the optimal PV penetration of 60% distributed into two buses, which was found to be the best for transient stability improvement after a fault condition. Scenario 3 investigates the impact of the power system stabilizer (PSS), using the optimal PV penetration of 60%, and the results reveal that system stability improves when a fault occurs on the bus where the PV system is also connected. Scenario 4 investigates the effectiveness of the fault clearing time on the response of the system with an integrated PV system, using the optimal PV penetration of 60%. The results revealed that a PV system only improves transient stability if the fault-clearing time is below 0.5 seconds; otherwise, the system loses stability. Overall, the study demonstrates that the system’s stability improves up to 60% of the PV penetration level of total generation power.
Enhancing Gold Assaying Crucibles in Ghana: Optimizing Fosu Clay Grog with Sintered Mullite for Improved Performance
Authors: Hou Yong Dan , Gbologah Lemuel , Asante Derrick Boateng , Kwawukume Parpah Senanu
Published: July 2024

Due to material and structural issues, fire-assaying crucibles used for analyzing precious metals in ores have encountered challenges related to poor thermal cycling in Ghana’s sub-Saharan region. This study aimed to enhance the crucibles by analyzing aluminosilicate minerals' multiphase development using X-ray diffraction and understanding the effects of composition determined by X-ray fluorescence on thermal behavior and water absorption observed through optical microscopy. The improved crucible design exhibited enhanced thermal cycling stability and lower permeability to the assay charge. Analysis showed that Fosu Clay (FC) demonstrated promise with a favorable Al2O3:SiO2 ratio and low impurities; mullite was identified as the primary phase formed at high temperatures, with quartz and cristobalite also present. Introducing 6% CSM dopant to FC increased the mullite content while supporting the transformation from quartz to cristobalite. The optimal crucible sample included coarse and fine-doped grog with an FC-clay binder, demonstrating excellent thermal stability, adequate porosity, and water absorption. Adjusting the percentage of doped grog further increased mullite content while reducing silica content; this suggests that locally produced improved crucibles are feasible through sintering commercial clay with mullite doping and precise composition adjustments.
Numerical Finite Element Analysis of Cracked Stainless-Steel Pipe Repaired by GFRP in a Moist Environment
Authors: Elamine Abdelouahed , Kaddour Sadek , Aour Benaoumeur , Benzaama Habib , Bennouna Mohammed Salah , Mokhtari Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Bonding metallic structures with composite materials is widely considered to be the most optimal method for joining damaged and fractured structures. This method offers important advantages, such as reducing the stress intensity factor (SIF) and increasing the lifetime of the joined structure. However, hygrothermal aging is a phenomenon that can reduce the lifetime of reinforced structures made of glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP). This study used numerical modeling to investigate a cracked stainless steel pipe operating in a hygrothermal environment and repaired with three patches. The main objective of this work is to determine the effect of adhesive aging due to hygrothermal damage on the repair efficiency of a cracked SA312 type 304 stainless steel pipe. The Finite Element Method (FEM) is used to evaluate the SIF as a function of applied load for different immersion times and at two different temperatures. First, the developed model was validated against literature results. A parametric study was then carried out. The obtained results showed that the adhesive maintains its stiffness for 7.5 months of immersion and that the mechanical properties of the adhesive are acceptable even at temperatures of 90°C or lower and internal pressures less than or equal to 50 bar. However, when the pressure load exceeds 50 bar (pint > 50 bar), the degradation of the adhesive becomes more significant, and the hygrothermal aging leads to variations in the mechanical properties of the joined structure. It is important to note that these results can contribute to the improvement of the existing composite repair design standard and can provide reliability for the application of GFRP in different humid environments.
Self-consciousness of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Kurnia Dikha Ayu , Soewondo Pradana , Irawaty Dewi , Umar Jahja , Dahlia Debie
Published: July 2024

The characteristics of self-consciousness of people with diabetes mellitus are determined by knowledge about diabetes mellitus, the signs and symptoms of acute and chronic complications, and the side effects of diabetes treatment. Knowledge plays an important role in the consciousness of behavioural change and diabetes self-management skills. People with diabetes recognize diabetes when they have experienced chronic complications, both macrovascular and microvascular. The study aims to explore how diabetics manage their chronic problems and their daily lives through a qualitative description of the experiences of 20 diabetes patients. This study used a descriptive-qualitative method, conducted a semi-structured interview, then transcribed and uploaded it into manual coding for analysis. Respondents were recruited from one of the community health centres in Jakarta, Indonesia. The themes were i) “Realizing diabetes is a  health problems that cannot be resolved alone”, paying attention to body signs becomes the beginning of self-consciousness; ii) “Coping with diabetes requires self-consciousness”, having adequate knowledge and growing personally with healthcare providers about early diabetes can prevent chronic complications. This study provides implications that self-consciousness greatly affects the self-management of diabetic patients in the long term.
A decade’s summary of transcatheter tricuspid valve repair
Authors: Bashir Aladdin , Tahir Zaheer , Ahmad Mahmood , Mouyis Kyriacos , Kirresh Ali Zuhair , Atta Sameh , Lloyd Clinton , Dalrymple-Hay Malcolm
Published: July 2024

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is the most common pathology for the tricuspid valve. Moderate to severe TR is associated with morbidity and adverse outcomes. The concept that TR resolves on its own if the underlying disease is successfully treated has proven to be false. Only a few patients with significant TR are deemed suitable for surgery. Given the late presentation of patients with high perioperative risks and substantial perioperative mortality, the development of transcatheter therapies and the experience gained with transcatheter aortic valve implantation operations have turned attention towards treating this challenging group of patients. In this article, we review the treatment options and highlight the role of transcatheter valve therapies in patients with severe TR.
Acute paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria upon dengue fever: A case report
Authors: Basit Momin Majed Abdul , Anamika Aluri , Ashrafunnisa Syed Arfa , Rathore Rahul Dev Singh
Published: July 2024

Rationale:

Dengue fever is capable of inciting the formation of transient polyclonal antibodies directed at red blood cell antigens, resulting in complement-mediated hemolysis, leading to intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria.

Patient’s concern:

A 12-year-old male patient who recovered from dengue fever a week ago had red blood cell agglutination, spherocytes, and engulfment of red blood cells (erythrophagocytosis) by monocytes and neutrophils on routine hematological peripheral blood smear. The unexpected blood smear results prompted the lab physicians to investigate autoimmune hemolytic anemia, which revealed a monospecific positive direct antiglobulin test for complement (C3d, C3b) and the presence of Donath-Landsteiner antibody.

Diagnosis:

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH), secondary to dengue fever.

Interventions:

Oxygen supplements, antibiotics, intravenous immunoglobulins, steroid therapy, and packed cell transfusions were administered.

Outcomes:

The patient’s condition was improved following the therapy.

Lessons:

Post-dengue PCH is a rare complication that requires a thorough peripheral smear examination for erythrophagocytosis, as advanced hematology analyzers fail to detect such findings.
Effects of L-carnitine on treatment outcomes of COVID-19 patients hospitalized in intensive care units: A double-blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Modir Hesameddin , Mahmoudieh Behnam , Shahtaheri Seyed Yousef , Farokhi Fariba
Published: July 2024

Objective:

To assess the effects of L-carnitine on the outcomes of patients with moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

This double-blind clinical trial was carried out in 2022-2023. 64 Patients with COVID-19 were selected from Amiralmomenin and Khansari hospitals in Arak, Iran. They were randomly assigned to the control and the L-carnitine treatment group via block randomization. Venous blood gases, disease severity, and levels of D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, and C-reactive protein were daily assessed during the seven days of the intervention, and the length of ICU stay, the need for endotracheal intubation, and mortality rate were documented.

Results:

There were significant differences in length of ICU stay, the need for endotracheal intubation, and levels of D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, ferritin, APACHE II score, and C-reactive protein between the two groups (P<0.05). However, the groups did not significantly differ in mortality rate and venous blood gas indexes (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

L-carnitine can improve outcomes of patients with COVID-19. Therefore, it can be used as an adjuvant therapy for these patients.

Trial registration:

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials identifier IRCT20141209020258N165.
Predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in in-hospital mortality in sepsis patients: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jain Pankaj Kumar , Seval Manoj , Meena Vikas , Meena Dinesh Kumar
Published: July 2024

Objective:

To explore the predictive value of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in in-hospital mortality in sepsis patients.

Methods:

A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients with septicemia. The data about the patient’s demography, medical history, general examination including pulse rate, blood pressure, etc, use of vasopressor support, need for renal replacement therapy, mechanical ventilation, outcome, and lab parameters including total lymphocyte count with neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio were recorded. And parameters between survivals and non-survivals were compared.

Results:

Out of 100 patients, 80% were from rural backgrounds. Most patients were 50 to 59 years old. 26 Patients were dead. The patients in the nonsurvivor group were older and more had a history of diabetes mellitus when compared with the survivor group. The non-survivor group had a higher NLR, APACHE II, and SOFA score.

Conclusions:

NLR is a readily available parameter and can be used as a good prognostic indicator for mortality in sepsis patients.
Acute pancreatitis in the critical care setting: A review of assessment and intervention strategies
Authors: Zaki Ashraf H. , Katranji Mohammad F.
Published: July 2024

The incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP), a condition characterized by inflammation in the pancreas, has been increasing globally and is associated with several complications. This review elaborated on the etiology, clinical presentation, severity assessment, and treatment modalities of AP, mainly in the critical care setting. Patients with severe AP, as indicated by organ failure (>48 hours from onset), warrant treatment in the intensive care unit setting. The most common etiologies, biliary disease and alcohol consumption, and the advanced diagnostic tools used for the identification of the cause are highlighted. Different severity assessment tools are utilized for grading the severity of the disease, predicting patient outcomes, determining the associated risk, and guiding treatment decisions. The treatment interventions comprise various approaches, such as anti-infective therapy enteral nutrition, analgesics for pain, or minimally invasive surgical procedures, thereby demonstrating an evolving landscape of AP management. Furthermore, various complications such as necrosis, organ failure, and hemorrhage, necessitate disease monitoring and differential diagnosis and are crucial for optimal management of patients. Novel treatment modalities and advancements in multidisciplinary care emphasize the potential for reducing the burden of AP in critical care settings.
A Review of EEG-based Localization of Epileptic Seizure Foci: Common Points with Multimodal Fusion of Brain Data
Authors: Tajmirriahi Mahnoosh , Rabbani Hossein
Published: July 2024

Unexpected seizures significantly decrease the quality of life in epileptic patients. Seizure attacks are caused by hyperexcitability and anatomical lesions of special regions of the brain, and cognitive impairments and memory deficits are their most common concomitant effects. In addition to seizure reduction treatments, medical rehabilitation involving brain–computer interfaces and neurofeedback can improve cognition and quality of life in patients with focal epilepsy in most cases, in particular when resective epilepsy surgery has been considered treatment in drug-resistant epilepsy. Source estimation and precise localization of epileptic foci can improve such rehabilitation and treatment. Electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring and multimodal noninvasive neuroimaging techniques such as ictal/interictal single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) imaging and structural magnetic resonance imaging are common practices for the localization of epileptic foci and have been studied in several kinds of researches. In this article, we review the most recent research on EEG-based localization of seizure foci and discuss various methods, their advantages, limitations, and challenges with a focus on model-based data processing and machine learning algorithms. In addition, we survey whether combined analysis of EEG monitoring and neuroimaging techniques, which is known as multimodal brain data fusion, can potentially increase the precision of the seizure foci localization. To this end, we further review and summarize the key parameters and challenges of processing, fusion, and analysis of multiple source data, in the framework of model-based signal processing, for the development of a multimodal brain data analyzing system. This article has the potential to be used as a valuable resource for neuroscience researchers for the development of EEG-based rehabilitation systems based on multimodal data analysis related to focal epilepsy.
Designing an Electrochemical Biosensor Based on Voltammetry for Measurement of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Authors: Samare-Najaf Mohammad , Dehghanian Amirreza , Asadikaram Gholamreza , Mohamadi Maryam , Jafarinia Morteza , Savardashtaki Amir , Afshari Afrooz , Vakili Sina
Published: July 2024

Background:

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a polypeptide hormone synthesized during pregnancy and is also upregulated in some pathologic conditions such as certain tumors. Its measurement is essential for diagnosing pregnancy and malignancies. Despite numerous attempts to introduce an accurate method capable of detecting hCG levels, several limitations are found in previous techniques. This study aimed to address the limitations of current hCG assay methods by designing an electrochemical biosensor based on voltammetry for the rapid, selective, inexpensive, and sensitive measurement of hCG levels.

Methods:

A carbon paste electrode was prepared and functionalized by para-aminobenzoic acid. The primary anti-β-hCG monoclonal antibody was immobilized on the electrode surface by activating the carboxyl groups with 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide and N-hydroxysuccinimide solutions. The study also involved optimizing parameters such as the time for primary antibody fixation, the time for hCG attachment, and the pH of the hydrogen peroxide solution to maximize the biosensor response. Different concentrations of hCG hormone were prepared and loaded on the electrode surface, the secondary antibody labeled with HRP enzyme was applied, thionine in phosphate-buffered saline solution was placed on the electrode surface, and the differential pulse electrical signal was recorded.

Results:

The linear range ranged from 5 to 100 mIU/ml, and the limit of detection was calculated as 0.11 mIU. The relative standard deviation was 3% and 2% for five repeated measurements of commercial standard samples with concentrations of 2 and 20 mIU/mL, respectively. The percent recovery was obtained from 98.3% to 101.5%.

Conclusion:

The sensor represents a promising advancement in hCG level measurement, offering a potential solution to overcome the existing limitations in current diagnostic strategies. Simple and inexpensive design, detecting hCG in its important clinical range during early pregnancy, and successful measurement of hCG in real serum samples are the advantages of this sensor.
Assessment of Marginal Fit of Two Esthetic Preformed Pediatric Crowns: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Doppalapudi Anusha , Pranitha Kakarla , Sai Sankar Avula Jogendra , Siva Sankar Kundeti , Kattappagari Kiran Kumar , Deepthi Nirmal Gavarraju
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Long-term success of any indirect restorations such as pediatric crowns depends on the accuracy of the crown margins, because an acceptable fit at the margins will promote gingival health and protects the tooth from physical, chemical, bacterial, and thermal injury. Taking this into consideration, the present study was designed to assess the marginal fit of two tooth colored preformed pediatric crowns in primary teeth. Materials and methods: A total of twenty-eight extracted human primary molars were selected and divided into two groups: (n = 14) Group I (Zirconia crowns) and Group II (Fiberglass crowns). Tooth preparation was done to receive their respective crown, which was cemented using resin-modified glass ionomer luting cement. Following cementation, the teeth were sectioned 1 mm below the cementoenamel junction, thermocycled, and viewed under stereomicroscope at 100× magnification. The marginal gap was measured on the four sides of the crown (buccal, lingual/palatal, mesial, distal) from stereomicroscopic photographs using MICAPS image analyzer software. Results: Statistical analysis was done using Mann–Whitney U-test. It was observed that Group I samples showed better marginal fit values when compared to Group II samples on all the aspects. Conclusion: Both zirconia and fiberglass crowns are good options for full coronal restorations in primary teeth. However, zirconia crowns were found to be more acceptable in terms of its adaptability and esthetics.
Assessment of Hearing Defect in Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Anoop Garikapati , Purnachandra Rao Naik Nunsavathu , Samata Yalamanchili , Sethu Manjusha Saranu , Tejaswi Chennupati
Published: July 2024

Introduction: This study was designed to assess the hearing defect in oral submucous fibrosis and compare the hearing defect in different stages of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) and also the hearing defect in the control group. Assessment of hearing defect in OSMF. This present study consisted of a total of 120 subjects. Detailed history and thorough intraoral examination were done for the hallmark clinical features of OSMF. Materials and Methods: The staging was given depending on Inter incisal distance, given by Chandramani More et al. Patients were subjected to a pure tone audiometry. The same tests were performed even in the control group, and changes about different stages of OSMF were evaluated. A comparison was made between the study and the control group. Chi-square test, Lenovo test, and t-test were utilised for Statistical analysis. Results: Among 120 subjects, the total hearing loss was seen in 37 subjects. Among the total control group of 60 members, eight members showed hearing loss. Six OSMF patients of stage II showed hearing loss out of 23 and 16 OSMF patients of stage III showed hearing loss out of 19 and seven patients of OSMF stage IV, all of them showed hearing loss. Conclusion: In comparison of the OSMF study to the control group, there is an increased severity of hearing loss. Significant hearing loss is seen with different stages of OSMF. The severity of hearing loss is seen with an increase in the stage of OSMF. Both sensorineural and conductive hearing loss are seen with increasing stages of OSMF.
Effect of Rhodium Coating on Surface and Mechanical Properties of NiTi Archwires: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of In Vitro Studies
Authors: Nookala Havisha , Vikramsimha Bommireddy , Jain Ravindra Kumar , Balasubramaniam Arthi
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Orthodontic therapy, is effective when biomechanics and predictable treatment outcomes cause least discomfort for patients, for this selection of archwires is crucial. This study aimed to analyze the available literature on a comparative evaluation of surface roughness (SR), nanohardness (NH), load deflection property (LDP), and friction between rhodium-coated (RC), non-coated (NC), and other coated NiTi archwires. Materials and methods: An electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Lilacs, and Web of Science for in vitro studies published in English from January 2000 to February 2024. The risk of Bias (RoB) was analyzed with the RoBDEMAT tool. Qualitative synthesis and meta-analysis of the included studies were performed only for the evaluation of SR among RC, NC, and other coated wires. Meta Analysis using the Random effects model (DerSimonian-Laird random effects pooling method) was carried out using RevMan Web for quantitative assessment of the included studies to assess surface roughness values among RC wires, non-coated, and other esthetic-coated wires. Results: A total of 12 studies were included, wherein RC, NC, and/or other coated wire archwires (EC, PC, FC, and OC) but from different brands were tested. The parameters in the included studies were assessed using a different experimental equipment. The RoB analysis revealed sufficient reporting in only one domain and inconsistent reporting in other domains for the included studies. Out of the nine studies reporting on SR, six studies reported a higher SR for RC than NC archwires and no significant difference in SR between RC and other coated archwires. In the eight studies included in the meta-analysis, a statistically significant pooled standard mean for the difference between RC and NC wires for SR was obtained (SMD = 1.30; P = 0.05; 95% CI = 0.00 to 2.59). Conclusion: The studies included in the systematic review showed varied methodological inconsistencies, and lacked protocols for sample size calculation. The available data are insufficient to report the effect of rhodium coating on properties such as load deflection rate, friction, and even flexural strength. However, the rhodium-coated wires had increased surface roughness and reduced nanohardness compared to non-coated wires.
Evaluating the impact of intubation pillow on laryngoscopy grade in children: A Randomized controlled trial
Authors: George Sonya Susan , Kurian Arun K. , George Sajan Philip , Jeyasheelan Lakshmanan , Yadav Bijesh
Published: July 2024

Background:

Laryngoscopy and intubation remain critical in pediatric patients as compared to adult patients due to different anatomy. This study was conducted to compare the Cormack and Lehane grade (CL) of laryngoscopy, percentage of glottic opening (POGO) score, and the efficacy of backward upward rightward pressure (BURP) maneuver to improve laryngoscopy grade with or without the use of intubation pillow.

Subjects and Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was done from January 2020 to July 2020 on 68 children with 34 children in Group 1 (with intubation pillow) and 34 patients in Group 2 (without intubation pillow). Children between 5 and 12 years of age (the American Society of Anesthesiologists class I and II) planned for surgery under general anesthesia with endotracheal tube were included in this study. Pillow of 4 cm size was used in 5–9 years and 6 cm pillow in 9–12 years of age group. Macintosh laryngoscope was used for intubation. CL grading and POGO score were assessed. BURP maneuver was given in cases of difficult laryngoscopy of CL grade above 2 and its effect on improvement in CL grading was measured.

Results:

Group 1 children had significantly more CL grade I (83.3% vs. 16.7%); significantly lesser CL Grade IIb (23.1% vs. 76.9%, P = 0.001); and significantly more POGO score (97% vs. 86%, P < 0.05) than Group 2. The use of BURP maneuver significantly improved the laryngoscopy view in both the groups.

Conclusions:

The use of intubation pillow in children between 5 and 12 years of age facilitated better laryngoscopy view and POGO score.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a 7-month-old infant with familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A case report
Authors: Gupta Payal , Patil S. Sumant , Pillay Usha
Published: July 2024

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy constitutes an acute cardiac condition that mimics acute myocardial infarction in the absence of coronary artery disease. We present a case of a 7-month-old girl, who was admitted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) at a tertiary care hospital for clinical deterioration with underlying familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. During the PICU stay, on echocardiography, the patient had severe cardiac contractility compromise with a characteristic pattern of regional wall motion abnormalities of the left ventricle. This, in combination with elevated cardiac enzymes, led to the diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
Neuroparalytic snakebite resulting in cerebral salt wasting and refractory hyponatremia: A case report
Authors: Sarangi Bhakti U. , Kulkarni Noopur , Rani Savita , Walimbe Ajay , Garg Rachit
Published: July 2024

Neuroparalytic snake bite presents commonly as early morning neuroparalytic syndrome with ptosis, ophthalmoplegia and respiratory muscle paralysis. However, there are multiple lesser-known constituents of the snake venom that can cause other life-threatening complications, including persistent mydriasis, alterations in blood pressure, hyponatremia, and rhabdomyolysis. Venom-derived natriuretic peptides can produce significant hyponatremia due to urinary wasting. We report a 14-year-old girl who presented with EMNPS and subsequently developed persistent profound hyponatremia, found to be due to excess urinary sodium losses, that responded well to fluid management including administration of hypertonic saline.
A review of loiasis and its vectors in Gabon
Authors: Lendzele Sevidzem Silas , Natacha Poungou , Rodrigue Mintsa Nguema , Mavoungou Jacques François
Published: July 2024

Loiasis colloquially known as tropical eye worm is a neglected tropical helminthic disease that affects the rural poor population of Gabon. A systematic review of 51 documents (45 peer reviewed papers and six dissertations) over four decades has documented many knowledge gaps on loiasis and its vectors. Higher prevalence and high microfilaremia is typical wherever Chrysops vectors occur. The two main vectors were C. silacea and C. dimidiata along with the savanna species C. longicornis. The two main vectors were only caught around forested national parks at low density (<1 Chrysops per trap per day). Chrysops longicornis was trapped in the savanna zone at higher numbers at a cattle ranch in Nyanga province. Leukoconcentration and Field’s stain for L. loa diagnosis performed well as diagnostic tools. However, studies on diagnostic efficacy remain scant, and no study has focused on the evolution of L. loa at the wildlife-human interface of Gabon.
Revascularisation in Immature Permanent Teeth – A Case Series
Authors: Jose Sherin C. , Mathew Joel , Mathews Sneha Elizabeth
Published: July 2024

Immature permanent teeth with developing, root apices with dental pulp infections resulting from caries or trauma represent a formidable clinical challenge. Biologically based principles of regenerative endodontic procedures in the treatment of immature, necrotic teeth have replaced the traditional ‘apexification’ procedures. Revascularisation by induction of apical bleeding is a potential source of stem cells and it creates a blood clot that would act as a biological scaffold for the recruited stem cells which in turn aids in the continued root maturation. The purpose of this case series was to investigate the outcome of the pulpal revascularisation procedure on five immature permanent teeth with or without apical periodontitis. Induction of blood clot was the technique selected for root closure if the tooth was asymptomatic. Apexification was initiated if the tooth remains symptomatic. Out of the five teeth selected for the study, revascularisation was successful, and continued root-end closure was obtained in four teeth. Revascularisation technique in immature permanent teeth offers clinicians’ great potential to avoid the need for traditional apexification procedures.
Comparison of Different Flap Designs in the Removal of Impacted Third Molars
Authors: Kumaran Satish , Pathak Rishik Raj , Saxena Sanindhya
Published: July 2024

Aim:

The aim of the study is to compare the different flaps and incisions that can be employed for the surgical removal of impacted third molars and its influence on the post-operative healing and complications associated with the same.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study was conducted on 100 patients diagnosed with mesioangularly impacted third mandibular molar and needed extraction of the tooth. The patients were divided into five groups randomly and five different incisions were placed in these patients for the extraction of the third molars. The parameters assessed were post-operative pain, swelling, trismus, distal pocket formation and gingival recession.

Results:

The influence of all the flaps on the post-operative healing was satisfactory and favourable. No significant disparity was noted amongst the various flap designs.

Conclusion:

It can, thus, be deduced that the choice of incision and flap depends mainly on the surgeon and the amount of exposure required for the exposure of the impacted third molar.
Alveolar Ridge Split and Expansion Utilising a Piezo-surgical Approach for Implant Placement in Narrow Ridges
Authors: Alex Sarah , Paul Jose , D’Lima Johnson Prakash , Reshma TS
Published: July 2024

In clinical settings, it is common to encounter alveolar ridges that lack sufficient width, posing challenges for implant placement. To ensure a successful implant placement, the bone’s width must be at least 1.5 mm greater than the implant’s diameter on both the buccal and lingual/palatal sides. The alveolar ridge split technique has been developed as a solution for horizontal bone deficiencies, allowing for the expansion of the alveolar ridges. This article discusses a case where an implant was placed in a 35-year-old male patient who had a missing lower left first molar for 5 years. Due to the horizontal deficiency of the alveolar ridge, a ridge split and expansion procedure was executed using piezosurgery. After 6 months, a screw-retained prosthesis was successfully delivered.
Unlocking the Power of Growth: A Multifaceted Approach to Correcting Skeletal Class III Malocclusion in Adolescence with Facemask Therapy Followed by Fixed Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Chandran Aswathy , Antony Vincy , Shaloob KM Muhamed , Nambiar Indu , Mohankumar Archana
Published: July 2024

Management of skeletal Class III malocclusion is very important to avoid future surgical interventions. This case report demonstrates the successful treatment of skeletal Class III malocclusion in a 13-year-old male using a combination of Alt-RAMEC protocol and facemask therapy followed by fixed orthodontic treatment with extraction of 14, 24, 34 and 44. Post-treatment results showed significant improvements in skeletal, dental and soft-tissue parameters. The Alt-RAMEC protocol, combined with facemask therapy, facilitated maxillary protraction and provided effective skeletal modification. Early intervention in Class III malocclusion can yield favourable outcomes, emphasising the importance of comprehensive treatment planning and long-term follow-up.
Management of Pier Abutment Using Non-rigid Connector
Authors: Sneha P. , Anand K. S. , Pradeep Nishna , Angitha K.
Published: July 2024

The use of a non-rigid connector proves advantageous in addressing issues associated with physiologic tooth movement, arch position of abutments and retentive capacity disparity. The innovative and cost-effective method outlined contributes to a more optimal solution for pier abutment cases in fixed dental prosthetics. This case report describes the incorporation of non-rigid connector to rehabilitate the pier abutment case.
Microbial Etiology, Immunological Evaluation, and Drug-Resistance Spectrum Profile of Bloodstream Infections Among Cancer Patients
Authors: Al-Zuwaini Sama Jawad , Aljibouri Lena Fadhil , Al-Marzoqi Ali Hussein , Golbashy Mohammad , Ibraheam Israa Adnan , Alsaffar Marwa Fadhil , Ahmed Ali Talib , Tolaifeh Zainab A. , Muslim Zahraa Aqeel , Otaiwi Mohammed Sabah , ALcharrakh Israa Aqeel Mohammed Ali
Published: July 2024

Background:

Bloodstream infection (BSI) in cancer patients is becoming more common due to a number of opportunistic bacteria, some of which show high resistance to antibiotics.

Objectives:

The study aimed to diagnose the most important bacterial causes of BSI in patients with different cancers of both sexes, estimate the sensitivity of bacterial species to antibiotics, and measure immunological factors in the serum of infected patients.

Materials and Methods:

The study sample included patients hospitalized at Marjan Teaching Hospital in Babil Province. Microbiological tests and immunological assessments were conducted on the study sample from April 2021 to February 2022. The study included 239 patients (with different types of cancers and showing signs of fever) included 126 (52.71%) females and 113 (47.28%) males.

Results:

1007 BSI-causing microorganisms were diagnosed among 239 cancer cases. The most common types of microorganisms isolated wereEscherichia coli169 (16.7%) andKlebsiella pneumonia165 (16.3%). The results showed significant antimicrobial susceptibility patterns for bacterial and fungal isolates causing BSI. Resistance to ofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and chloramphenicol was higher than other antibiotics. The results showed a significant elevation of all immunological factors among the BSI group associated with cancer compared to the control group, including IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IL-6.

Conclusions:

It is necessary to regularly check the prevalence of bacteria and the level of antibiotic resistance in BSI patients. It will help determine whether local rules for the use of antimicrobial agents are appropriate and select appropriate drugs for empirical antibiotic therapy and prophylaxis in high-risk patients.
The Receptor Tyrosine Kinase EphA2 and Integrin-linked Kinase Expression in Colorectal Cancer in Relation to the Severity of the Tumor
Authors: Ahmed Hayat Sulaiman , Yalda Mayada Ilias
Published: July 2024

Background:

Although colorectal carcinoma is still the second cancer-related death worldwide, the current knowledge of the prognostic profile of routine markers is still humble. This study aimed to study the receptor tyrosine kinase EphA2 and integrin-linked kinase expression in relation to the severity of the disease represented by the grade, extent of invasion, and lymph node involvement.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 87 colorectal cancer cases diagnosed between 2019 and 2022. The immunohistochemical expression and scoring of integrin-linked kinase and EphA2 was carried out and correlated to the histological variables of severity.

Results:

The mean age of the studied cases was 57.85 years, and approximately 56.3% of them were females. The majority of the cases were moderately differentiated carcinoma (81.61%). More than half of the patients presented in T3. No lymph-node involvement was detected in 65.52 cases. The majority of the studied cases showed negative integrin-linked kinase expression in tumor cells in the colon and lymph nodes. Even positive cases showed low scores. EphA2 marker showed higher positivity in tumor cells of the colon and lymph nodes with higher scores, but no significant correlation to the histopathological variables.

Conclusion:

The EphA2 marker is of higher benefit than the integrin-linked kinase and the last one is of limited prognostic role in colorectal cancer due to the very high negative and low score results.
Antibiotic Resistance Profile of Pathogenic Bacteria Isolated from Healthcare Rooms in the Mosul Government Hospital, Iraq
Authors: Oudah Marwah Ali
Published: July 2024

Background:

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) pose a serious risk to patient safety because they are the most frequent adverse event in the healthcare industry and have a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Practices for preventing infections have improved. All medical professionals must take steps to prevent infections.

Objectives:

This study investigated the microbiology of health care infections (HCRI) in the intensive care units (ICUs) of public hospitals in Mosul, Iraq.

Materials and Methods:

The resistance profile of bacteria found in the ICU of Mosul’s Government General Hospital was evaluated using bacterial profiles on surfaces, equipment, and surveillance cultures. In an ICU, samples were taken from the patient’s bed and infusion pump. Samples were taken with swabs dipped in saline. Following the passage, samples were gathered, put in tubes, and brought to the lab for microbial evaluation.

Results:

The results revealed that all of the beds, equipment, and surfaces examined contained 134 different bacteria, 15 of which were oxacillin-resistant and could result in nosocomial infections. Intermediate resistance to ampicillin and vancomycin is 20%. Human isolates of Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter, Acinetobacter, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were resistant to oxacillin, extended spectrum Betalactamases, and carbapenems.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that to stop the spread of highly resistant bacteria, it is necessary to use surveillance, isolation, and rational antibiotic use.
Study the Correlation of Ochratoxin A with a Prevalence of Breast Cancer in Al-Najaf Province, Iraq
Authors: Al-Mhanaa Haider Abbas Hadi , Al-Obaidi Atheer B. , Algazali Sajad A. , Abdelzaher H.G. , Abdelzaher M.A. , Alsirhani Alaa Muqbil , Mohammed Rawaa M. , Mohammed Roaa , Ali Mohanad Kadhim , Mahdi Mohammed Qasim Salih , Abdul-Jawad Dhuhah Hayder , Al-Muhanna Estabraq Hassan Badder , Alsaadi Ismael Mohammed , Rawdhan Zaid H. , Al-Hasan Baraa Akeel , Bustani Ghadeer Sabah
Published: July 2024

Background:

Breast cancer is a prevalent disease affecting numerous individuals worldwide. This study focuses on investigating the concentration of Ochratoxin A (OTA) in female breast cancer patients in the Al-Najaf Province. Previous research suggests a potential correlation between OTA and breast cancer.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine the concentration of OTA and its association with breast cancer in females in the Al-Najaf Province.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 40 female breast cancer patients who received treatment at The National Educational Oncology Hospital in the Al-Najaf Province from April to August 2022 were included in this study. Additionally, 20 healthy females served as the control group. Serum samples were collected in sterile tubes (Eppendorf tube) and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to quantitatively diagnose the OTA ratio. Patient information, including age, was recorded in a data sheet.

Results:

The results demonstrated a significant increase (P < 0.05) in OTA concentrations among the total number of breast cancer patients compared to the control group. The concentrations of OTA were measured at 0.2720 and 0.2186 ng/mL in breast cancer patients, indicating a higher OTA level in this group.

Conclusion:

This study provides evidence of a significant association between OTA concentration and breast cancer in female patients from the Al-Najaf Province. These findings contribute to the understanding of the role of OTA in breast cancer development. Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms underlying this relationship and potentially develop targeted interventions.
Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Infertility among Infertile Couples in Mosul City, Iraq
Authors: Hashim Abdulrahman Mazin , Mahmood Hanady Jabbar , Salih Ahmed Mishaal Mohammed
Published: July 2024

Objective:

This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitude toward infertility among infertile couples.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional research design was implemented over a period lasting from October 5, 2022, to December 25, 2022. A total of 138 infertile couples were selected through simple random sampling, and interviews were conducted with couples who attended consulting clinics for the management and treatment of infertility in three hospitals in Mosul city using a questionnaire.

Results:

The results revealed that 58% of the couples who participated in the study had moderate pieces of knowledge about infertility, and 42% had inadequate knowledge, 60.9% of the couples who participated in the study had a positive attitude, 36.2% had a neutral attitude, and 2.9% of them had a negative attitude toward infertility disease.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that most of the couples who took part in the study had been married for more than 5 years, and over half of them had an average understanding of infertility and a positive attitude toward it.