bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Predictive and Prognostic Role of Hematologic and Biochemical Parameters in the Emergency Department among Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients
Authors: Huang Chun-Yen , Tsai Huang-Wen , Liu Chia-Ying , Liu Tse-Hsuan , Huang Huei-Ling , Chang Chih-Chun , Chen Wei-Chi , Sun Jen-Tang
Published: December 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) had caused a worldwide pandemic with public health emergencies since 2020. For the symptomatic patients, high mortality rate was observed if without timely and optimized management. In this study, we aimed to investigate the predictive and prognostic roles of hematologic and biochemical parameters obtained in the emergency department (ED) for COVID-19 patients. We conducted a retrospective study in a dedicated COVID-19 medical center, recruiting a total of 228 COVID-19 patients with 86 severe and 142 non-severe cases. Both the hematologic and biochemical parameters obtained in the ED upon arrival were analyzed to evaluate the association of the biomarkers with disease severity and prognosis among COVID-19 patients. Among these parameters, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin (PCT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), ferritin, and D-dimer were significantly higher in the severe group than the non-severe one, whereas the platelet count and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio were significantly lower. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the areas under curve of CRP, PCT, LDH, ferritin, D-dimer, and NLR for differentiating the severity of COVID-19 were 0.713, 0.755, 0.763, 0.741, 0.733, and 0.683, respectively, whereas the areas under curve of CRP, PCT, LDH, ferritin, D-dimer, and NLR for differentiating the mortality of COVID-19 were 0.678, 0.744, 0.680, 0.676, 0.755, and 0.572, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that CRP, PCT, LDH, ferritin, D-dimer, and NLR were independent indicators for prediction of severe COVID-19, and LDH and ferritin were independent factors associated with the mortality in COVID-19. In conclusion, higher CRP, PCT, LDH, ferritin, D-dimer, and NLR were associated with severe COVID-19, whereas higher LDH and ferritin were associated with the mortality in COVID-19. These findings could help early risk stratification in the ED and contribute to optimized patient management.
Efficacy of the Franseen needle for diagnosing gastrointestinal submucosal lesions including small tumors
Authors: Nagai Kazumasa , Sofuni Atsushi , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Kono Shin , Ishii Kentaro , Tanaka Reina , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Mukai Shuntaro , Yamamoto Kenjiro , Matsunami Yukitoshi , Asai Yasutsugu , Kurosawa Takashi , Kojima Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Nagao Toshitaka , Itoi Takao
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives:

Several studies have demonstrated that EUS-guided fine-needle biopsy (EUS-FNB) is useful for diagnosing gastrointestinal subepithelial lesions (GI SELs). However, there is limited evidence regarding the use of Franseen needles during EUS-FNB for patients with GI SELs. In addition, the optimal approach for diagnosing small SELs is unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether EUS-FNB using a Franseen needle was effective for diagnosing GI SELs, including small lesions.

Methods:

Between January 2013 and January 2020, 150 consecutive patients with GI SELs underwent EUS-FNA/FNB to achieve a histological diagnosis. Eighty-six consecutive patients who underwent EUS-FNB using a Franseen needle were compared to 64 patients who underwent EUS-FNA using a conventional needle.

Results:

The diagnostic yield was significantly higher using a Franseen needle than using a conventional needle (85% vs. 75%, P = 0.006). Furthermore, in cases with SELs that were <20 mm, the diagnostic yield was significantly higher using a Franseen needle than using a conventional needle (81% vs. 45%; P = 0.003). Multivariate analysis revealed that obtaining a sufficient diagnostic sample was independently predicted by Franseen needle use (adjusted odds ratio: 2.8, 95% confidence interval: 1.2–6.3; P = 0.01) and tumor size of >20 mm (adjusted odds ratio: 3.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.4–8.2; P = 0.006).

Conclusion:

Even when attempting to diagnose small GI SELs, EUS-FNB using a Franseen needle appears to provide a more efficient acquisition of true histological core tissue than using a conventional needle.
Evaluation of a novel radial echoendosonoscope with a piezoelectric-composite transducer
Authors: Wang Sheng , Guo Jintao , Liu Xiang , Ge Nan , Wang Guoxin , Hu Jinlong , Zhang Kai , Sun Siyu
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives:

EUS is widely used in the clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel echoendoscope regarding image quality, maneuverability, stability of the entire machine system, and safety.

Setting and Design:

We conducted this open-label, multicenter, randomized, parallel-group, noninferiority clinical trial in three tertiary hospitals between November 2018 and April 2019.

Subjects and Methods:

One hundred and thirty patients were included. The stratified segment randomization method was employed. Sixty-five patients in the test group received an EUS examination using the new material radial echoendoscope, and 65 patients in the control group received an EUS examination using the existing endoscope. We recorded the image quality, maneuverability, stability of the entire machine system, and safety. For the main outcome, comprehensive image quality, the groups were compared with the noninferiority test, using the confidence interval method and 10% as the noninferiority threshold. The Pearson Chi-square test was used to compare the incidence of adverse events between the groups.

Results:

Sixty-five patients in the test group and 63 patients in the control group were analyzed. Two patients in control group did not complete an EUS examination due to machine problems. There were no significant differences in image quality, maneuverability of the echoendoscope, stability of the entire machine system, and safety between the groups.

Conclusions:

This new material radial echoendoscope showed good capabilities for image quality, maneuverability, stability of the entire machine system, and safety. Our data suggest that the new echoendoscope may provide an additional option for endoscopic physicians.
A study to assess the knowledge and skills of Accredited Social Health Activists and its retention after training in community-based primary eye care
Authors: Shukla Pallavi , Vashist Praveen , Senjam Suraj S , Gupta Vivek , Gupta Noopur
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

Community volunteers like Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) could be utilized for linking community and eye care services. Research is needed to effectively utilize them. This study was to assess whether ASHAs could imbibe new knowledge in eye care and conduct vision screening.

Methods: Settings and Design:

A pre-post-intervention study in South Delhi Integrated Vision Centres. It was conducted from January 2016 to March 2017. One day of conceptual training followed by hands-on training in vision screening was imparted to ASHAs. The knowledge was assessed thrice: before, immediately after, and following 1 year after training. The vision screening skill was assessed twice. Descriptive analysis using percentages, mean and standard deviations. Paired t-test was used for assessing the change in scores.

Results:

A total of 102 ASHAs were recruited. A significant increase in the knowledge score of ASHAs before (14.96) and after training (25.38) (P < 0.001) was noted. The knowledge score was sustained at 1 year (21.75). The satisfactory skill of vision screening was seen in 88 (86.3%) ASHAs after training, while 79 (77.5%) ASHAs still retained it after 1 year.

Conclusion:

The potential to involve ASHAs in community-based frontline eye care activities: awareness generation of eye diseases, identification of referrable conditions, and facilitating individuals to seek eye care facilities. This study informs about the duration, frequency, and content of the training. It also provides evidence on the improvement and sustainability of eye care knowledge and skills by ASHAs after conceptual and hands-on training.
Intraoperative optical coherence tomography-guided management of postlaser-assisted in situ keratomileusis epithelial ingrowth
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Nair Sridevi , Mazumdar Saima A , Titiyal Jeewan S
Published: December 2021

We describe a modified technique of intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT)-guided removal of post-laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) epithelial ingrowth with interface ethyl alcohol and mitomycin C application to prevent a recurrence. Epithelial ingrowth was visualized as hyperreflective deposits in the interface on iOCT, and the location and extent were noted at the beginning of the procedure. A simple dimple-down maneuver was performed to help identify the circumference of the LASIK flap. iOCT helped to delineate the flap edge and ensure dissection in the correct plane with complete removal of epithelial cell nests. Real-time visualization of the interface helped in on-table decision making regarding the extent of lifting the flap to encompass the entire region of hyperreflective epithelial ingrowth, as well as the need for additional interventions to ensure complete flap apposition at the end of surgery. All patients gained an uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20–20/25 with no recurrence.
Clinical, histological and immunohistochemistry characteristics of cornea in the sequelae stage of chronic vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Jaffet Jilu , Singh Vivek , Chaurasia Sunita , Jakati Saumya , Hazari Ajit , Sangwan Virender
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To report the clinical outcomes and histopathological and immunohistochemistry (IHC) features in eyes with the sequelae stage of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Methods:

Investigative study of corneal samples obtained following surgical intervention for vision restoration in four eyes of three patients with VKC. Patient 1 (an 11-year-old boy) had deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty in both eyes, Patient 2 (a 24-year-old male) underwent superficial keratectomy followed by penetrating keratoplasty, and Patient 3 (a 22-year-old male) underwent penetrating keratoplasty. The corneal samples retrieved after surgical intervention were assessed for histology features and immunohistochemistry (IHC) studies.

Results:

The grafts were clear till the follow-up of 2–18 months. Histopathology of all four corneal samples showed epithelial hyperplasia, absent Bowman layer, thick hyalinized stromal lamellae, vascularization, and chronic inflammatory cells such as lymphocytes and plasma cells. IHC showed strong expression of CK 3 in both eyes of Patient 1 and no expression in Patients 2 and 3. The marker for limbal stem cells, ABCG2, was absent in all four samples; however, p63α was expressed strongly in Patients 2 and 3, moderately in the right eye of Patient 1, and marginally expressed in the left eye of Patient 1.

Conclusion:

The eyes in the sequelae stage of VKC (having corneal scarring and 360° hypertrophied limbus) can be managed favorably with keratoplasty and amniotic membrane transplantation without allogenic/cadaveric stem cell transplantation. The expression of transient progenitor cells in the scarred corneas of VKC patients in the sequelae stage suggests that the limbal stem cell dysfunction is more likely partial and self-renewal of limbal stem cells is a plausibility in these eyes.
Efficacy of low-concentration atropine (0.01%) eye drops for prevention of axial myopic progression in premyopes
Authors: Jethani Jitendra
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

Low-concentration atropine (LCA; 0.01%) is known to reduce the progression of myopia in axial myopes. The purpose of this study was to understand the role of LCA in premyopic children in preventing progression.

Methods:

A randomized case–control study of known premyopes was done between the use of LCA and no intervention. A total of 30 children were included in both groups.

Results:

The mean age in the LCA group was 7.7 ± 2.1 years (5–12 years), and in the control group, it was 7.2 ± 1.9 years (4–12 years). The mean baseline progression per year in the LCA group (before starting the eye drops) was − 0.72 ± 0.3 D, and in the control group, it was − 0.69 ± 0.4 D. At the end of the first year, the mean progression in the LCA group was − 0.31 ± 0.3 D versus − 0.76 ± 0.4 D, and the axial length increase was 0.12 ± 0.1 mm in the LCA group and 0.21 ± 0.2 mm in the control group. At the end of the second year, the mean progression compared with the baseline in the LCA group was − 0.6 ± 0.3 D versus − 1.75 ± 0.4 D, and the axial length showed an increase from baseline in the LCA group by 0.21 ± 0.2 mm, and in the control group, the increase was 0.48 ± 0.2 mm in 2 years.

Conclusion:

Low-concentration eye drops (0.01%) work in preventing the progression of axial myopia in premyopic children.
Patients presenting with stage IV uveal melanoma: Lessons learned
Authors: Garg Gaurav , Kivelä Tero T , Finger Paul T
Published: December 2021

Challenges persist in identifying patients with stage IV uveal melanoma. While clinical, histopathologic, and genetic features of the primary tumor have been shown to provide prognostic value for assessing metastatic risk, biopsy-related genetic analyses are expensive and not universally available. Therefore, this review will focus on clinical characteristics. Initial staging and follow-up screening protocols have evolved for patients with uveal melanoma. The Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study (COMS) required a physical examination, chest X-ray, and hematologic survey (primarily liver function tests). Though these studies were found to have a high specificity, COMS investigators typically found late-stage metastases. More recently, protocols have concentrated on liver imaging (abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging). Though hepatic radiographic imaging has been found more likely to reveal earlier metastatic uveal melanoma, by definition it cannot detect most extrahepatic and multiorgan metastases. An international multicenter registry study recently focused on patients who were diagnosed with stage IV uveal melanoma simultaneously with their primary intraocular melanoma. Therein, utilizing center-specific diagnostic methods, stage IV was found to occur in about 2% of patients. However, subgroup analysis found that a disproportionate number of multi-organ metastases were discovered when whole-body positron emission tomography/computed tomography was used for staging. Herein, we review the literature on patients who present with stage IV uveal melanoma, how they were detected, and their outcomes.
Study on stereoacuity and associated factors in school children aged 7 to 14 years
Authors: Potluri Ravi K , Akella Subbarao V , Mallidi Rachana , Uppala Nageswara R , Jujjavarapu Rajendra P
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of subnormal stereoacuity in school children and to assess the factors associated with it.

Methods:

In this prospective cross-sectional study, a total of 2,376 school children without amblyopia and manifest squint were screened by the titmus fly test, Snellen chart, tests for heterophoria, anterior segment examination, and fundoscopy. Children with a manifest squint, amblyopia (best-corrected visual acuity [BCVA] <6/18), and history of ocular trauma or surgery, and one-eyed children were excluded. Cycloplegic refraction was done in children with uncorrected or undercorrected refractive errors, and stereoacuity was assessed again with spectacle correction.

Results:

The prevalence of normal stereoacuity by titmus fly test was 93.18% with correction of refractive errors. Girls had slightly better stereopsis compared with boys. The subnormal stereoacuity was significantly associated with refractive error (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), unilateral refractive error (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), bilateral refractive error (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), anisometropia (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), ametropia (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), lower BCVA (P < 0.00001, significant at P < 0.05), hyperopia (P < 0.05, significant at P < 0.05), and heterophoria (P = 0.014, significant at P < 0.05). The subnormal stereoacuity was positively correlated with the magnitude of refractive error of the eyes.

Conclusion:

This study underlines the significant impact of identification and correction of refractive errors and squints in school children. The measurement of stereoacuity will be of immense importance and must be included in the screening programs for children.
Posterior optic capture of intraocular lens in difficult cases of pediatric cataract
Authors: Sukhija Jaspreet , Kaur Savleen , Korla Shagun
Published: December 2021

We describe the technique of posterior optic capture without anterior vitrectomy in two difficult cases of pediatric cataract. We demonstrate how a three-piece foldable intraocular lens can be maneuvered behind the posterior capsule after an improvised posterior capsulotomy. This technique provided excellent intraocular lens (IOL) stability with the absence of lens epithelial cell proliferation in infants with altered posterior capsule morphology.
COVID-19-associated optic neuritis – A case series and review of literature
Authors: Jossy Ajax , Jacob Ninan , Sarkar Sandip , Gokhale Tanmay , Kaliaperumal Subashini , Deb Amit K
Published: December 2021

Neuroophthalmic manifestations are very rare in corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) infection. Only few reports have been published till date describing COVID-19-associated neuroophthalmic manifestations. We, hereby, present a series of three cases who developed optic neuritis during the recovery period from COVID-19 infection. Among the three patients, demyelinating lesions were identified in two cases, while another case was associated with serum antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein. All three patients received intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral steroids according to the Optic Neuritis Treatment Trail ptotocol. Vision recovery was noted in all three patients, which was maintained at 2 months of the last follow up visit.
Refractive prediction by various intraocular lens formulas using optical biometry and effect of ocular parameters on their accuracy
Authors: Ambade Ajay K , Ambade Rakhee A , Raje Dhananjay V
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To assess the prediction accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) formulas and study the effect of axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and lens thickness (LT) on the accuracy of formulas using optic biometry.

Methods:

This study was performed on 164 eyes of 164 patients who underwent uneventful cataract surgery. Ocular biometry values were measured using Lenstar-900, and intraocular lens (IOL) power was calculated using the SRK/T, SRK II, Hoffer Q, Holladay 2, and Barrett Universal II formulas. We evaluated the extent of bias within each formula for different ocular biometric measurements and explored the relationship between the prediction error and the ocular parameters by using various IOL formulas.

Results:

The summarization of refractive prediction error and absolute prediction error for each IOL formulation was performed after adjusting the mean refractive error to zero. The deviation in the error values was minimum for SRK/T (0.265) followed by Holladay 2 (0.327) and Barret (0.382). Further, SRK/T had the lowest median (0.15) and mean (0.198) absolute error as compared to other formulations. For the above formulations, 100% of the eyes were in the diopter range of ±1.0. It was observed that the overall distribution of error was closer to zero for SRK/T, followed by Holladay 2 and then Barrett.

Conclusion:

In summary, we found that accuracy was better in SRK/T formula. We achieved a better understanding of how each variable in the formulas is relatively weighed and the influencing factors in the refraction prediction.
Outcomes of macular buckling with a T-shaped buckle for myopic tractional maculopathies associated with posterior staphyloma: An Indian experience
Authors: Susvar Pradeep , Singh Niharika , Bhende Pramod , Rao Chetan
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To report the anatomic and visual outcomes following macular buckling in patients affected by pathological myopia-associated foveoschisis (FS) and macular detachment with or without macular hole (MH).

Methods:

A retrospective interventional consecutive case series wherein 25 highly myopic eyes (mean axial length 28.46 mm; range, 25–33.8 mm) of 24 patients (16 females and 8 males; mean age 54.1 years; range, 35–74 years) presenting with macular detachment associated with a posterior staphyloma (PS), who underwent macular buckling, were evaluated. Patients with absence or reduction in subretinal fluid by more than 90% during the final follow-up along with inversion of contour of staphyloma were considered to have a successful anatomical outcome and those with improvement or maintenance in visual acuity were considered to have a successful functional outcome. The mean duration of follow-up was 11.2 months.

Results:

At the time of initial presentation, the mean age of the 24 patients was 54.1 ± 10.28 years. Macular detachment along with FS was present in all cases, whereas full-thickness macular hole-related retinal detachment was present in nine cases. Swept-source optical coherence tomography parameters showed reduction of FS with foveal reattachment in all eyes except one at last visit. Mean axial length decreased from 28.5 mm preoperatively (range 26–33.8 mm) to 26.2 mm (range 24–29.3 mm). The mean best-corrected visual acuity changed from 1.16 log MAR to 1.096 Log MAR (P = 0.165). Visual acuity improved in 10 eyes (40%), remained stable in 11 eyes (44%) and decreased in 4 eyes (16%).

Conclusion:

Macular buckling is a good surgical technique with encouraging anatomic and visual outcomes in patients with myopic macular detachment associated with PS. Highly selective cases of myopic traction maculopathy can have a viable option of macular buckle surgery in stabilizing the retinal tractional changes, and thereby, vision loss.
Can photoscreening effectively detect amblyogenic risk factors in children with neurodevelopmental disability?
Authors: Neena R , Gopan Anjana , Nasheetha Ayshathu , Giridhar Anantharaman
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To analyze whether photoscreening can effectively detect amblyogenic risk factors in children with neurodevelopmental disability.

Methods:

A prospective study of 52 children attending a special school for children with neurodevelopmental disability from December 2017 to May 2018. All were initially tested with a photoscreening device: Welch Allyn® Spot® Vision Screener: model VS100 (Spot®) and further evaluated at a later date by a pediatric ophthalmologist, with a complete ocular evaluation including squint assessment, cycloplegic retinoscopy, and dilated fundus examination. The key parameters studied were demographic features, type of neurodevelopmental disability, refraction, ocular alignment, media clarity, any other ocular morbidity, and time taken for examination. The presence of amblyogenic risk factors (ARF) was analyzed as per the 2013 guidelines of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.

Results:

The mean age was 10.5 years (range: 1–17.5 years). Males (73.1%) outnumbered females (26.9%). The most common neurodevelopmental disability was cerebral palsy. Simple myopic astigmatism was the most common type of refractive error. Presence of ARF in our study was 73.1%. The sensitivity and specificity of photoscreening in detecting ARF were 96.5% and 63.61%, respectively, with a positive predictive value of 80% and negative predictive value of 92.31%. The predictive ability of photoscreening was 79.9% as per the area under curve. The average time taken for photoscreening was less than 60 s.

Conclusion:

Photoscreening can detect ARF with high sensitivity and reasonable specificity and is a handy, useful, and time-saving tool in screening children with neurodevelopmental disability.
Transient myopia due to choroidal effusion: A novel ocular complication of COVID-19 infection
Authors: Deori Nilutparna , Garg Mohit , Bhattacharjee Harsha , Das Dipankar , Jain Mitesh , Gogoi Rajendra N , Deori Arup
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 was declared as a global pandemic by the WHO in 2020. Although it is a respiratory virus, ocular complications and manifestations of the infection have been reported in different forms. We report a case of transient myopia and narrow angles due to choroidal effusion following infection by the SARS-COV-2 virus. We propose that the ability of the virus to incite an inflammatory response in the host body may be the mechanism behind the disease entity. This is a novel, previously undocumented ocular complication in case of a COVID-19 infection.
Safety and Concerns of Secondary Prophylaxis for Rheumatic Heart Disease with Benzathine Penicillin
Authors: Bhat Prabhavathi , Shivashankarappa Arun B , Krishnappa Radha B , Nanjappa Manjunath C
Published: December 2021

Background:

Rheumatic Fever (RF) and Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are common cardiovascular diseases in developing countries. Long-term Benzathine Penicillin G (BPG) injection is being used for secondary prophylaxis of RF/RHD. Although allergic reactions to BPG are rare, there is a lot of fear and hesitancy in administering it.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to assess the safety of injection BPG used for secondary prophylaxis of RHD.

Methods:

Patients who had received secondary prophylaxis to RHD at our institute's outpatient department from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2020, were analysed retrospectively.

Results:

Among 25,819 injections of BPG given to 2878 patients, eight patients had adverse events. Five patients had anaphylaxis, two had urticaria, and one had vasovagal syncope. Incidence of adverse events was 0.03% of injections and 0.28% of patients. Majority of adverse events were seen in patients more than 18 years (7 out of 8). All were treated successfully and there was no mortality.

Conclusions:

Life-threatening allergic reactions are very rare in patients on long-term intramuscular BPG for secondary prevention of RHD.
Evaluation of Dentition Status and Temporomandibular Joint Disorders in Patients with Chronic Neck and/or Back Pain – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Chandanshive Pradnya , Kshar Avinash , Byakodi Raghavendra , Paranjpe Arati , Awale Sunil , Shete Manish K
Published: December 2021

Background:

The stomatognathic system (SS) is a functional unit of the body formed by the orofacial structures, together with peripheral sensory and motor neuronal connections to perform different functions like mastication, speech, and deglutition. Stomatognathic system consists of skeletal components (maxilla and mandible), dental both maxillary and mandibular arches, soft tissue (salivary glands, their nervous and vascular supplies), and temporomandibular system, that is, temporomandibular joints (TMJ; which connects the mandible to the base of the skull), muscles of mastication and their ligaments and nerves (III, IV, V, XI) which regulates and co-ordinates all its structures. The stomatognathic system also plays an important role in postural control. In balance of imbalance stomatognathic system components such as occlusion may cause temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), TMDs may affect neck and back muscles.

Aims and Objectives:

To evaluate the dentition status and TMDs in patients with chronic neck and/or back pain and to correlate dentition status and TMDs in both neck and back pain patients.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out on 300 patients. Patients were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings were noted in specialized case history proforma.

Results:

Out of 300 patients, 116 (38.67%) were males and 184 (61.33) were females. The mean age of patients referred for the study was 38.09 years. The most common dental finding in both chronic neck and/or back pain patients was flat curve of Wilson's (90%) whereas the least finding found was Grade III tooth mobility (0.04 ± 0.31 teeth). In TMDs most common finding was deviation of jaw (79.3% in neck and 100% in back pain) whereas the least finding found was deflection of jaw (50% in neck and 48.2% in back pain).

Statistical analysis:

The result was found highly significant (p-value <0.05).

Conclusion:

There was an association between disturbed dentition status, temporomandibular joint disorders, chronic neck and back pain.
Awareness Towards Forensic Dentistry - A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sharma Sneha R. , Karjodkar Freny R. , Sansare Kaustubh P. , Saalim Mohd , Sharma Ankit H. , Chavan Samiksha A.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Forensic odontology is a vital branch of dentistry which applies the knowledge of dentistry mainly for age and gender estimation, person identification and the identification from human remains. The role of a general dentist towards forensics is crucial for medicolegal cases.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to scrutinize the awareness and approach of dental fraternity namely Interns, Postgraduate students and practicing clinicians towards forensic odontology.

Methods and Material:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1,860 participants, divided according to age and educational qualifications. Data was collected digitally using Google forms. Descriptive analysis were performed to describe frequencies and percentages. Chi-square test was used to analyze statistical significance.

Results:

97% of the total participants maintained dental records, with only 13.4% maintaining complete records. Maximum participants were unaware of the duration for which patient records should be maintained. The significance of patient radiographs was known to 71.6% participants. 72% were vigilant of the implication of maintaining dental records in identification of the deceased. 57% knew about radiographic methods used for age estimation. 47.74% gave a response that DNA comparison has the maximum accuracy to ascertain the identity of an individual. 46.7% had the knowledge about formal training centers of forensic odontology in India.

Conclusion:

The present study revealed partial lack of knowledge, awareness and information of forensic odontology among the participants. Amongst all participants, the highest responses were noted amongst students and younger age group.
Role of Areca Nut and Smokeless Tobacco-Related Habit in Altering Physical Properties of Saliva – A Comparative Study
Authors: Patel Roseline A. , Shah Jigna S. , Dudhia Bhavin B. , Patel Purv S.
Published: December 2021

Context:

Saliva performs multiple functions and is of paramount importance for the maintenance of oral health. Hence, alterations in its physical properties like salivary flow rate, buffering capacity and pH can be deleterious to the oral cavity. Areca nut and smokeless tobacco products are known to alter the mucosa as well as the saliva.

Aims and Objectives:

The study is aimed to compare the alteration in the salivary properties like stimulated salivary flow rate, pH, and buffering capacity between subjects with areca nut and smokeless tobacco habit and without in subjects without habit. A correlation between the habit frequency, duration, and exposure on the same parameters was also ascertained.

Settings and Design:

It is a comparative study using purposive sampling, comprising of 100 subjects within age group 18–50 years of any gender. The sample size constituted of 50 subjects (group A) with a habit of areca nut and smokeless tobacco and 50 subjects (group B) without any habit. Salivary properties like salivary flow rate, buffering capacity, and pH were analyzed in both groups to test a hypothesis that the habit results in changes in the salivary properties and that there is a correlation between the changes and the frequency, duration, and exposure of the habit.

Materials and Methods:

Saliva samples were collected from these subjects for analysis of salivary flow rate (SFR), pH, and buffering capacity using the GC Saliva Check Buffer Kit™.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed by using the SPSS software program, version 27.0.

Results:

The mean stimulated salivary flow rate among group A was 3.34 ± 1.32 and pH was 6.50 ± 0.54. The mean stimulated salivary flow rate among group B was 4.42 ± 1.48 and the pH was 7.04 ± 0.47. The difference in these values was found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Alterations in SFR and salivary pH and buffering capacity are observed in habitual chewers of areca nut alone and areca nut with other products. The alteration is dependent on the type of habit and the habit exposure frequency and duration.
Assessment of Correlation Between Bone Quality and Degenerative Bone Changes in Temporomandibular Joint by Computed Tomography - A Retrospective Study
Authors: Koshal Neha , Patil Deepa Jatti , Laller Sanjeev , Malik Mamta , Punia Ramandeep Singh , Sawhney Hemant
Published: December 2021

Objectives:

This study was performed to assess the correlation between bone quality and degenerative bone changes in temporomandibular joints on computed tomographic images.

Methods:

Temporomandibular joints of 100 patients who underwent computed tomography were analyzed retrospectively. Sagittal and coronal images of the joint (condyle and articular eminence) were assessed for bone quality type 1 to 4 and degenerative bone changes. A Chi-square test was used to assess the descriptive statistics. One-way ANOVA was used to compare the degenerative changes in different age groups and gender. The post hoc Tukey honesty significance test was used to assess the presence of a statistically significant difference between the degenerative changes and bone quality. A value P < 0.005 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The retrospective analysis included 48 women and 52 men with ages ranging from 17 to 85 years (mean age 52 years). D3 quality of bone was most commonly observed in the condyle and articular eminence. Osteophytes were the most common degenerative changes observed in the condyle and no significant degenerative changes were seen in the articular eminence. There was a correlation between degenerative changes and bone quality of condyle with respect to age. There was no correlation between the bone quality of the condylar head and its degenerative changes.

Conclusion:

There was no correlation between the type of bone quality and degenerative bony changes of the condyle and articular eminence, but most of the patients with degenerative changes had a poor-quality bone.
Comparative Evaluation of the Efficacy of Co2 and Diode Laser in the Treatment Outcome of Oral Homogeneous Leukoplakia
Authors: Gupta Amrita , Pagare Sandeep S. , Bhatnagar Sunanda , Waghmare Mandavi , Vahanwala Sonal
Published: December 2021

Background:

“L.A.S.E.R” an acronym for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation” works as an alternative to conventional surgical systems. It has many advantages and is widely used in the treatment of both oral hard and soft tissues. One of the most popular uses of lasers in the field of dentistry is in the treatment of precancerous lesions and conditions. Aim: This paper is based on the comparison of two laser techniques, carbon dioxide and diode lasers to assess the efficacy in the treatment outcome of oral homogeneous leukoplakia.

Setting and Design:

The study is a prospective pilot study and the study design is a hospital-based randomized clinical trial.

Method and Material:

The study compared two treatment groups; carbon dioxide laser on group A and diode laser on group B. The patients were assessed on the basis of postoperative signs and symptoms. Also, the rate of recurrence of oral homogeneous leukoplakia following two techniques was assessed.

Statistical Analysis:

One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was applied and P value was measured. Study showed statistical significance with P value >0.05 for evaluation parameters such as pain, erythema, swelling, burning, and rate of recurrence.

Result and Conclusion:

The study concludes that carbon dioxide and diode lasers can be used as alternative treatment modalities for the excision of oral soft tissue lesions. Intraoperative and postoperative complications are rare, with minor bleeding being the only complication observed during the surgeries.
Association of Dental Implants Success in Bone Density Classification of Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis - A Clinical and Radiographic Prospective Study
Authors: Alsadi Wasim , AbouSulaiman Ali , AlSabbagh Mohammad Monzer
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Osteoporosis according to postmenopausal women is a major health problem increasing yearly. Thus, there is a growing need to assess the success of dental implants among these patients.

Aim:

Evaluation of dental implants success between 6 and 12 months follow-up on postmenopausal women with osteoporosis by means of clinical and radiographic assessment.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 30 female patients aged between 46 and 65 years were diagnosed with osteoporosis and treated with Vitamin D3 and Calcium (Vit D3 and Ca). The sample was divided into two groups: Group 1- 15 female patients diagnosed with osteoporosis (bone density of D2) and treated with (Vit D3 and Ca) and group 2- 15 female patients diagnosed with osteoporosis (bone density of D3) and treated with (Vit D3 and Ca). A total of 60 dental implants were placed in the mandibular posterior area. Implant loading was done after 6 months. Follow up intervals were 6 to 12 months after loading.

Results:

According to the study, compromised survival was in two implants in the osteoporosis group with a bone type of D2 with a rate of 3.3%, and compromised survival in the osteoporosis group with bone type of D3 was 11 implants with a rate of 18.3%. The success was in 52 implants, with a rate of 86.7%.

Conclusion:

Placing dental implants in postmenopausal female patients with osteoporosis and treating with (Vit D3 and Ca) is a safe treatment option for missing teeth, despite the bone density type. More researches about implant with osteoporosis patients are recommended.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Lycopene, Raspberry, Green Tea Herbal Formulation Mediated Silver Nanoparticle
Authors: Chaithanya Mukundh V. , Uma Maheswari T. N. , Rajeshkumar S.
Published: December 2021

Aim:

To assess the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of a formulation containing lycopene, raspberry, green tea herbal, and silver particles.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, a formulation of lycopene (10%), raspberry (25%), green tea (95% polyphenols), and silver nanoparticles was subjected to anti-inflammatory testing using bovine serum albumin (BSA) assay and antioxidant testing by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) assay.

Results:

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant assays showed that the highest inhibition was seen at 50 μL concentration.

Conclusion:

From the above results, it can be concluded that the combination of herbal extracts along with silver nanoparticles has better anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
Levels of Salivary Immunoglobulin a and Immunoglobulin G in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Olayanju Olatunde A. , Bamidele Olabisi , Eseile Bola J. , Udeh Chioma , Odok Gabriel N. , Awah Nnaemeka E. , Mba Izuchukwu N. , Abbiyesuku Fayeofori M.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disorder of glucose metabolism and it is associated with a compromised oral immunity. Salivary immunoglobulins offer a comprehensive protection for the oral cavity; however, there is insufficient data regarding their levels in type 2 diabetic patients. This study aimed to measure salivary Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin A (IgA) in diabetic patients in comparison to healthy nondiabetic controls.

Methods:

Diabetic patients from the outpatient clinic and nondiabetic healthy members of staff, were recruited for this study. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected from all participants and levels of immunoglobulins A and G were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques; the values were compared between the two groups.

Results:

A total of 167 participants were recruited for this study, 95 (56.9%) of them were diabetic patients, while the remaining 72 (43.1%) were healthy nondiabetic controls. The median salivary IgA was 12.57 (Interquartile range [IQR] 11.05–13.67) g/ml in the diabetics and 11.94 (IQR 10.41–13.65) μg/ml in the control group; P = 0.31 while the median salivary IgG was 32.27 (IQR 25.26–38.33) μg/ml in the diabetics and 26.26 (22.48–31.29) μg/ml in the control group; P < 0.001.

Conclusion:

Salivary IgG was significantly elevated in the diabetic patients, in spite of a higher prevalence of oral infections, this calls for a more stringent attention to oral hygiene in diabetic patients.
Determinants of Risky Sexual Behavior among Secondary School Adolescents in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: Eyam Lilian Eberechukwu , Eyam Sunday Eyam , Ekpeyong Bernadine Nsa , Ndep Antor Odu , Akpan Margaret Inemesit , Ekanem Emanuel Ekanem
Published: December 2021

Background:

Adolescent risky sexual behavior and its consequences are serious problems affecting all the nations negatively and require research attention to profer solutions.

Aim:

To determine the prevalence of risky sexual behavior and its determinants among adolescents in co-educational secondary schools in Cross River State (CRS).

Materials and Methods:

The study design was cross sectional and involved the use of semi-structured self-administered questionnaire that had two sections A and B. Data were analyzed with IBM SPSS version 21 using descriptive measures and frequency distributions. Non-co-educational secondary schools, co-educational secondary schools with sexuality education programs, and private secondary schools were excluded, and only co-educational public secondary schools without sexuality education programs and students 10–19 years were included in the study.

Results:

Prevalence of sexual intercourse was 41.5% and was statistically significantly higher among the boys than the girls. Among the sexually exposed boys, 33% of them were sexually active, while among the girls, 32.7% were sexually active.(χ2 = 0.73; P =0.34). Among the age groups, 33% of students within the ages of 14–16 years and 82.6% within the ages of 17–19 years were sexually exposed. The percentages sexually exposed for polygamous and monogamous homes were 186 (55.5%) and 106 (27.7%), respectively (χ2 = 58; P = 0.00). Similarly, students in SS3 class and students that were not monitored by parents had higher percentages of ever indulging in sexual activity, with 79.7% and 52.3%, respectively (χ2 = 17.3; P = 0.00), (χ2 = 56; P = 0.01). Forty-nine point four (49.4%) of the students whose mothers had at most primary education have had sexual exposure, while 34% of those whose mothers had at least secondary education have had sexual exposure (χ2 = 18.23; P = 0.00). Similarly, students whose parents had unskilled jobs also had a high percentage of sexual exposure (χ2 = 13.6; P = 0.00.). Age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.69) indicated that as the age increases the students were 2.69 times more likely to be sexually exposed, Family type (OR = 3.01) showed that students from polygamous homes were 3 times more likely to have been sexually exposed than their counterparts from monogamous families.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of risky sexual behavior among students in co-educational secondary schools in CRS, Nigeria, is high. Age, family type, parental monitoring, and socioeconomic status were strongly associated with risky sexual behavior.
Assessment of Knowledge and Practice of Disease Surveillance and Notification among Health Workers in Private Hospitals in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Chime Onyinye Hope , Ogugua Ifeoma Juliet , Obionu Ifeoma Maureen , Ezenwosu Ifeyinwa Lilian , Ibiok Charles Ntat , Ochie Casmir Ndubuisi , Kassy Wilson Chukwukasi , Ndu Anne Chigedu , Arinze-Onyia Sussan Uzoamaka , Agwu-Umahi Olanike , Aguwa Emmanuel Nwabueze , Okeke Adaeze Theodore
Published: December 2021

Background:

Disease surveillance and notification (DSN) has been recognized as an effective strategy for prevention and control of diseases, particularly epidemic-prone diseases.

Aim:

This study assessed the knowledge and practice of DSN activities in private health facilities (PHFs) in Enugu metropolis.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study, utilizing mixed methods. Multistage sampling method was used to select the PHFs and the respondents. Respondents were health-care workers (HCWs) in charge of DSN in PHFs within Enugu metropolis and the state epidemiologist. Chi-square test and multivariate analysis using binary logistic regression were used for analysis.

Results:

Being a medical doctor (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 6.567; confidence interval [CI]: 1.250–34.502) was found to be a predictor of good knowledge. Facilities having more than ten patients daily (AOR: 0.012; CI: 0.085–0.739) and poor knowledge of Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system (AOR: 0.135; CI: 0.028–0.660) were predictors of poor IDSR practice. Four major themes emerged from the key informant interview: the level of involvement of state with DSN in PHFs, support available to PHFs, challenges in assessing DSN data in PHFs, and measures to improve DSN activities in PHFs.

Conclusion:

The HCWs in charge of DSN had good knowledge of IDSR system, but the practice was poor. There is a need for regular training with supportive supervision of the HCWs to ensure they translate knowledge into practice.
Sebaceous Carcinoma of Submandibular Gland Presenting with Upper Airway Obstruction
Authors: Adamu Abubakar , Yahya Abdulmajid Ibrahim , Lawan Aliyu Ibrahim , Farate Abubakar , Zarami Abba Bukar , Buba Bello Usman
Published: December 2021

Sebaceous carcinoma (SC) of the salivary gland is a very rare tumor occurring more in the parotid gland. It is extremely rare in the submandibular gland. Only four cases of submandibular gland SC have been reported worldwide in English literature. We present the first case of submandibular gland SC in our environment and the fifth to be reported in English literature. A 55-year-old male farmer presented to our facility with a 10-year history of progressive, painless left submandibular mass, which worsened 4 months before presentation, associated with dysphagia to solid, muffled voice, weight loss, and upper airway obstruction. He had emergency tracheostomy and biopsy of the left submandibular mass. Histopathological examination of the mass confirmed SC. He was referred for radiotherapy but said to have died few weeks later while still preparing to travel for the radiation therapy. The rarity of these cases made the clinicopathologic pattern to be poorly understood thus making the choice of treatment option difficult. More cases need to be reported in other to develop the best treatment modalities.