bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plateae et anthrôpoi, peut-on trouver des origines byzantines à l’organisation normande de la paysannerie de la Calabre méridionale ?
Authors: Peters-Custot Annick
Published: March 2022

La question de l’héritage byzantin dans les structures rurales et les statuts paysans des régions de l’Italie méridionale qui demeurèrent le plus longtemps sous l’autorité de l’Empire de Constantinople, en particulier de la Calabre méridionale, constitue un problème fortement débattu, y compris récemment. Il se concentre sur les inventaires d’hommes des grandes propriétés de Sicile et de Calabre aux époques normande et souabe appelés plateae. Le but de cette contribution est de reprendre la question de la continuité ou non de ces documents avec des antécédents byzantins, non du point de vue formel, mais de celui des statuts paysans. Les difficultés sont nombreuses: la documentation byzantine d’Italie méridionale est presque inexistante; les statuts paysans ne sont que rarement exprimés de manière explicite et directe dans les plateae normandes; enfin, il a semblé nécessaire de distinguer nettement la situation calabraise de celle de la Sicile, malgré les importantes similitudes. Quoi qu’il en soit, on propose de voir, dans le statut des hommes recensés dans les plateae calabraises, un héritage fiscal éphémère utilisé par l’autorité publique normande, celui des parèques byzantins.
Object-Based Scene Classification Modeled by Hidden Markov Models Architecture
Authors: Lamine Benrais , Nadia Baha
Published: March 2022

Multiclass classification problems such as document classification, medical diagnosis or scene classification are very challenging to address due to similarities between mutual classes. The use of reliable tools is necessary to get good classification results. This paper addresses the scene classification problem using objects as attributes. The process of classification is modeled by a famous mathematical tool: The Hidden Markov Models. We introduce suitable relations that scale the parameters of the Hidden Markov Model into variables of scene classification. The construction of Hidden Markov Chains is supported with weight measures and sorting functions. Lastly, inference algorithms extract most suitable scene categories from the Discrete Markov Chain. A parallelism approach constructs several Discrete Markov Chains in order to improve the accuracy of the classification process. We provide numerous tests on different datasets and compare classification accuracies with some state of the art methods. The proposed approach distinguishes itself by outperforming the other.
Prediction of Stress Level on Indian Working Professionals Using Machine Learning
Authors: Pabreja Kavita , Singh Anubhuti , Singh Rishabh , Agnihotri Rishita , Kaushik Shriam , Malhotra Tanvi
Published: March 2022

Stress levels amongst the Indian employees have increased due to a variety of factors and are a matter of great concern for the organizations. This study is based on Indian working professionals and real data has been collected by using non-probability convenience sampling. A questionnaire was drafted based on eighteen factors affecting the mental health of professionals. This study addresses two dimensions, first is to identify the important influential features that trigger stress in the lives of working professionals, and the second is to predict the stress levels. Various supervised machine learning algorithms have been experimented with and of all these algorithms, the Support Vector Machine Regressor model showed the best performance. The main contribution of the paper lies in the identification and ranking of ten important stress triggering features, that can guide organizations to develop policies to take care of their employees. The other deliverable is the development of a GUI-based stress prediction software based on Machine learning techniques.
Exploring DSS for Personality Assessment
Authors: Manocha Richa , Duggal Taranjeet , Rana Neeti
Published: March 2022

The research has been undertaken with the objective of studying the factors of personality and its impact on organization citizenship behaviour (OCB) among information technology (IT) sector employees. The study will help human resource managers in devising a strategy for selecting personnel who will exhibit OCB, thus helping organisations in improving their output. For fulfilling the objectives, descriptive analysis has been conducted on the data of 504 IT sector employees who have relevant technical background. The variables have been measured with the help of self-administered questionnaire. Data was analysed through structural equation modelling technique. IBM SPSS Amos software has been used to fit the SEM model. The outcome demonstrated that variables of OCB and personality traits are significant representatives as proved in the first order constructs. The authors find a high positive relation between personality traits and OCB.
HRIS Symbolic Adoption, Its Relationship With Technological Adoption Factors, WLB, and Creativity
Authors: Srivastava Sonalee , Bajaj Badri
Published: March 2022

The study examines the relationship between technology adoption factors (performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence) on employee creativity and work-life balance. The study examines the mediating role of the symbolic adoption of human resource information system (HRIS) between the above-stated relationships in small to medium-size IT organizations. A sample of 311 information technology professionals working in small-to-medium organizations has been taken for analysis via a questionnaire method. Structural equation modeling results show that symbolic adoption partially mediated the relationship between performance expectancy and creativity. Additionally, it established a partial mediated relationship between performance expectancy, effort expectancy, with work-life balance. The study facilitates the HR department and professionals towards employees' symbolic adoption variable that enhances the acceptance of HRIS technology, employees' creativity, and better work-life balance. Further, detailed research implications and limitations have been discussed.
Emotional Intelligence Amongst Millennials
Authors: Pooja  , Bhatia Nitesh , Kumar Pranab
Published: March 2022

The Millennial generation constitutes the majority of the present day workforce. As per the birth year and age group they presently belong to, many Millennial are already in managerial roles and many shall occupy key leadership roles in their respective organizations. Leadership being an emotion laden process requires the millennials to be adaptable so that they can motivate their team members or followers, understand their requirements and reduce their stress levels. Emotional Intelligence plays a crucial role in addressing these workplace issues and correlates positively with leadership. The study is focused on Indian Information Technology (IT) and ITES organizations as it is one of the biggest employers and contributes majorly towards the country’s economy. The present study tries to compare the level of emotional intelligence of millennials across gender, management levels, qualifications and years of experiences. Practical implications related to gender diversity and inclusion of women in leadership roles has also been discussed.
Internationalization of Spin Off From the Perspective of Its Client Capital
Authors: Holgado María Amalia Trillo , Prieto Maria del Carmen Peces
Published: March 2022

This paper analyses in detail the influence of customer relationships on the internationalization of university spin-offs. Relational capital is a source of sustainable competitive advantage for these types of companies given the innovation and technological development they generate. From the background, a management model has been designed and implemented to conclude that customer relations exert a positive influence on the internationalization of university spin-off. The perceived satisfaction of customers has a special incidence, and moreover, it is important to have a wide portfolio of them establishing strong links. It will provide information about their needs and may affect their loyalty.
The Restorative Effects of Virtual Reality Forests on Elderly Individuals During the COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Yuan Shaofeng , Tao Futai , Li Ying
Published: March 2022

This study focuses on the restorative effects of immersive virtual reality (VR) forest experiences on elderly people during the COVID-19 lockdown. A field experiment with 63 elderly participants was conducted in an elderly care institution in China. The results showed that a five-minute VR forest experience with three minutes of subsequent reliving can bring immediate psychological improvements (i.e., increased positive affect, decreased negative affect, and enhanced stress recovery) to elderly individuals. The negative affect decrease and stress recovery enhancement were more obvious among introverted individuals. Furthermore, participating in three VR forest experiences over 3 consecutive days can bring continuous psychological improvements. Moreover, short VR forest experiences were unable to significantly decrease the blood pressure of participants. The effects of three VR experiences over 3 days on blood pressure improvement were also nonsignificant. Additionally, VR forest experiences can increase elderly participants’ intentions to undertake real forest therapy.
Effects of Antioxidant on Oxidative Stress and Autophagy in Bronchial Epithelial Cells Exposed to Particulate Matter and Cigarette Smoke Extract
Authors: Hur Jung , Rhee Chin Kook , Jo Yong Suk
Published: March 2022

Background: We evaluated the effect of particulate matter (PM) and cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on bronchial epithelial cell survival, as well as oxidative stress and autophagy levels. Moreover, we aimed to assess the effect of the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the adverse effects of PM and CSE exposure.Methods: Normal human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B cells) were exposed to urban PM with or without CSE, after which cytotoxic effects, including oxidative stress and autophagy levels, were measured. After identifying the toxic effects of urban PM and CSE exposure, the effects of NAC treatment on cell damage were evaluated.Results: Urban PM significantly decreased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner, which was further aggravated by simultaneous treatment with CSE. Notably, pretreatment with NAC at 10 mM for 1 hour reversed the cytotoxic effects of PM and CSE co-exposure. Treatment with 1, 5, and 10 mM NAC was shown to decrease reactive oxygen species levels induced by exposure to both PM and CSE. Additionally, the autophagy response assessed via LC3B expression was increased by PM and CSE exposure, and this also attenuated by NAC treatment.Conclusion: The toxic effects of PM and CSE co-exposure on human bronchial epithelial cells, including decreased cell viability and increased oxidative stress and autophagy levels, could be partly prevented by NAC treatment.
Cytosolic Sensing of Intracellular Staphylococcus aureus by Mast Cells Elicits a Type I IFN Response That Enhances Cell-Autonomous Immunity
Authors: Goldmann Oliver , Sauerwein Till , Molinari Gabriella , Rohde Manfred , Förstner Konrad U , Medina Eva
Published: March 2022

Strategically located at mucosal sites, mast cells are instrumental in sensing invading pathogens and modulating the quality of the ensuing immune responses depending on the nature of the infecting microbe. It is believed that mast cells produce type I IFN (IFN-I) in response to viruses, but not to bacterial infections, because of the incapacity of bacterial pathogens to internalize within mast cells, where signaling cascades leading to IFN-I production are generated. However, we have previously reported that, in contrast with other bacterial pathogens, Staphylococcus aureus can internalize into mast cells and therefore could trigger a unique response. In this study, we have investigated the molecular cross-talk between internalized S. aureus and the human mast cells HMC-1 using a dual RNA sequencing approach. We found that a proportion of internalized S. aureus underwent profound transcriptional reprogramming within HMC-1 cells to adapt to the nutrients and stress encountered in the intracellular environment and remained viable. HMC-1 cells, in turn, recognized intracellular S. aureus via cGMP–AMP synthase–STING–TANK-binding kinase 1 signaling pathway, leading to the production of IFN-I. Bacterial internalization and viability were crucial for IFN-I induction because inhibition of S. aureus internalization or infection with heat-killed bacteria completely prevented the production of IFN-I by HMC-1 cells. Feeding back in an autocrine manner in S. aureus–harboring HMC-1 cells and in a paracrine manner in noninfected neighboring HMC-1 cells, IFN-I promoted a cell-autonomous antimicrobial state by inducing the transcription of IFN-I–stimulated genes. This study provides unprecedented evidence of the capacity of mast cells to produce IFN-I in response to a bacterial pathogen.
Structural Determinants in the Staphylococcus aureus–Derived Phenol-Soluble Modulin α2 Peptide Required for Neutrophil Formyl Peptide Receptor Activation
Authors: Viklund Moa , Fredriksson Johanna , Holdfeldt André , Lind Simon , Franzyk Henrik , Dahlgren Claes , Sundqvist Martina , Forsman Huamei
Published: March 2022

Highly pathogenic Staphylococcus aureus strains produce phenol-soluble modulins (PSMs), which are N-formylated peptides. Nanomolar concentrations of PSMα2 are recognized by formyl peptide receptor 2 (FPR2), but unlike the prototypic FPR2 agonist WKYMVM, PSMα2 is a biased signaling agonist. The truncated N-terminal PSMα2 variant, consisting of the five N-terminal residues, is no longer recognized by FPR2, showing that the C-terminal part of PSMα2 confers FPR2 selectivity, whereas the N-terminal part may interact with the FPR1 binding site. In the current study, a combined pharmacological and genetic approach involving primary human neutrophils and engineered FPR knock-in and knockout cells was used to gain molecular insights into FPR1 and FPR2 recognition of formyl peptides as well as the receptor downstream signaling induced by these peptides. In comparison with the full-length PSMα2, we show that the peptide in which the N-terminal part of PSMα2 was replaced by fMet-Ile-Phe-Leu (an FPR1-selective peptide agonist) potently activates both FPRs for production of superoxide anions and β-arrestin recruitment. A shortened analog of PSMα2 (PSMα21-12), lacking the nine C-terminal residues, activated both FPR1 and FPR2 to produce reactive oxygen species, whereas β-arrestin recruitment was only mediated through FPR1. However, a single amino acid replacement (Gly-2 to Ile-2) in PSMα21-12 was sufficient to alter FPR2 signaling to include β-arrestin recruitment, highlighting a key role of Gly-2 in conferring FPR2-biased signaling. In conclusion, we provide structural insights into FPR1 and FPR2 recognition as well as the signaling induced by interaction with formyl peptides derived from PSMα2, originating from S. aureus bacteria.
Evaluation and Correlation of Condylar Cortication by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Sethna Muthlakshmi K. S. , Krithika C. L. , Asokan Kannan
Published: March 2022

Background:

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a ginglymo-diarthroidial joint with fibroelastic cartilage. The chondrogenesis initiates from the 12th week of intrauterine life and the development of condyle is associated with growth. The condylar cortication shows distinct morphological variation for each individual in each stage of their life. The cortical bone around the condyle could be used as a factor for chronological age assessment and it can act as a tool in forensic medicine.

Aim and Objective:

The study was carried out to evaluate the cortical grading in mandibular condyle using two different applications and to correlate their grades with chronological age.

Setting and Design:

Hospital-based retrospective observational cross-sectional study.

Materials and Methods:

The study was carried out in 40 patients and 80 TMJs were assessed for cortication grades in Carestream 3D imaging and Image J applications. These grading from both the applications were correlated with the chronological age.

Statistical Analysis:

SPSS (Statistical Analysis for the Social Science) – Cohen's Kappa inter-examiner reliability and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used.

Results:

The radiological assessment of condylar cortication in individual application showed significant results and the relationship of cortication with chronological age showed a significant correlation.

Conclusion:

The condylar cortication grading is a simple technique and can be used as a factor for chronological age assessment. This is an initial study which used two different applications to view the cortication of the mandibular condyle and to correlate the cortication with chronological age. Hence, a large sample size-based study is required for further research.
Evaluation the Relationship between Mandibular Molar Root Apices and Mandibular Canal among Residents of the Moscow Population using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Technique
Authors: Razumova Svetlana , Brago Anzhela , Howijieh Ammar , Barakat Haydar , Kozlova Yuliya , Razumov Nikolay
Published: March 2022

Background:

The relationship between the inferior alveolar nerve and the root apices of the mandibular molars and premolars is of clinical importance. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the mandibular canal (MC) and the mandibular molar root apices using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning among residents of the Moscow population.

Materials and Methods:

Three hundred CBCT scans for patients aged 20–70 years were analyzed. Patients were divided into three age groups: young group (20–44 years), middle-age group (45–59 years), and elderly group (60–70). The distance from the MC and the mandibular molar root apices was measured in each group in the coronal view of CBCT scans. Statistical analysis was set on P < 0.05.

Results:

The mean distance from the mesial root apices of the first, second, and third molars to the MC was 4.92, 2.85, and 2.24 mm, respectively. The distal root showed to be the closest root to the MC in multirooted teeth. The young age group showed smaller distances to MC than other age groups (P < 0.05). Females showed smaller distances to MC in mandibular molars than males (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The distance between the root apices and the MC has to be taken into consideration when performing surgical or endodontic procedures.
Correlation of Ponticulus Posticus with Dentofacial Skeletal Patterns
Authors: Falah-Kooshki Sepideh , Nikkerdar Nafiseh , Imani Mohammad Moslem , Faraji Reza , Golshah Amin
Published: March 2022

Background:

This study aimed to assess the correlation of ponticulus posticus (PP) with dentofacial skeletal patterns on lateral cephalograms of an Iranian population.

Methods:

This retrospective study evaluated 1000 lateral cephalograms of 690 females and 310 males. Demographic information of patients was recorded, and two observers evaluated all radiographs for the presence of PP. The dentofacial skeletal pattern was also determined as Class I, II, or III. Disagreements were resolved by discussion with a third observer. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 19.47 ± 8.37 years (range 7–64 years). The prevalence of PP was 38.3%. PP had a significant correlation with gender (P = 0.022) such that PP was more common in males (43.5%). No significant correlation was noted between PP and age or dentofacial skeletal pattern (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

PP was relatively common in our study population. PP had no correlation with age or dentofacial skeletal pattern of patients.
Impact of sex of the patient on efficacy and safety of cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Kapoor Akhil , Noronha Vanita , Patil Vijay M. , Joshi Amit , Menon Nandini , Mahajan Abhishek , Janu Amit , Prabhash Kumar
Published: March 2022

Background:

It has been established that women usually mount a stronger immune response than men of the same age. Data for the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based on the patient’s’ sex are scarce.

Objectives:

We aimed to evaluate the impact of the patients’ sex on the efficacy and toxicity of ICIs.

Materials and Methods:

Aretrospective audit of a prospectively collected database of patients receiving ICIs for advanced solid tumors between August 2015 and November 2018 was performed at the Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, India. The categorical and continuous variables were evaluated using descriptive statistics. The Kaplan–Meier estimator was used to analyze the progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results:

Atotal of 155 patients were included in the study, of which 36 (23.2%) were female and 119 (76.8%) were male. The median PFS was 2.8 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–4.2) for the male patients and 1.9 months (95% CI, 1.0–2.8) for the female patients (hazard ratio [HR], 1.06; 95% CI, 0.69–1.66; P = 0.764). The median OS was 5.9 months (95% CI, 1.5–10.2) for the male patients and 4.2 months (95% CI, 1.1–7.3) for the female patients (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.77–2.12; P = 0.342). The rates of all toxicities, except for pneumonitis, were similar between the male and female patients. All-grade pneumonitis occurred in a total of 7 (5.8%) male patients, while it was not reported in any female patients. All-grade immune-related adverse effects occurred in 24 (20.2%) male and 4 (18.1%) female patients (P = 0.216).

Conclusions:

This study shows that the efficacy and toxicity of ICIs are similar in the male and female patients. However, future trials with a balanced number of male and female patients are required to ensure an unbiased estimation of the efficacy and safety of ICIs.
BRAF in lung cancer
Authors: Sharma Mansi , Nathany Shrinidhi , Batra Ullas
Published: March 2022

Testing for the presence of oncogenic driver mutations in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a therapeutic mandate, and hence, in-depth knowledge of all the targetable biomarkers is essential. Apart from the well-known driver mutations in epidermal growth factor receptor, anaplastic lymphoma kinase, and ROS1, mutations in BRAF comprise an important molecular subtype of NSCLC, which is amenable to targeted therapy. In this review, we have described the molecular biology, detection methods, and various treatment modalities available for patients with NSCLC harboring BRAF mutations. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and My Cancer Genome databases using the keywords, “BRAF,” “NSCLC,” “vemurafenib,” “dabrafenib,” and “trametinib.” A total of 44 articles were included in the review. Although targeted therapies have been successfully used in the management of advanced NSCLCs with BRAF mutations, it is necessary for clinicians to be mindful of the nuances of BRAF testing and interpretation of the results. Judicious use of BRAF inhibitors, either in the first or second line, can lead to improved survival in this subgroup of patients. In addition, immunotherapeutic agents may have a role in BRAF-mutant NSCLCs, in contrast to other oncogene-addicted NSCLCs where they are contraindicated.
Changing trends of invasive mediastinal evaluation in India
Authors: Chandveettil Jashma , Kattepur Abhay K. , Pareekutty Nizamudheen Mangalasseri , Kumbakara Ratheesan , Balasubramania Satheesan
Published: March 2022

Background:

The utilization of mediastinoscopy for mediastinal staging or evaluation has been on the wane, because of the increasing use of methods such as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)/endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS). The choice of one modality over the other is based on individual preferences, expertise, cost, and the disease in question.

Objectives:

This study was aimed at assessing the changing trends in the practice of mediastinoscopy and endoscopic techniques across India.

Materials and Methods:

This online, questionnaire-based survey was conducted at the Malabar Cancer Center, Kerala, India, between September 2019 and January 2020. Surgical oncologists, thoracic surgeons, and pulmonologists treating patients with lung cancer in the National Cancer Grid, India-affiliated institutions were enrolled. A total of 20 questions directed at determining the experience of the healthcare professionals, type of institutions where they practiced, the volume of patients with lung cancers being treated by them, and the temporal changes in the utility of mediastinoscopy and EBUS/EUS over the past 2 years were included in the questionnaire. The survey was conducted using Google Forms. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. AP< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 347 clinicians were invited to participate in the survey, of which 70 responded. A total of 62 (88.6%) respondents recommended invasive mediastinal staging in patients with lung cancer with positive mediastinal nodes on positron emission tomography (PET). In addition, 39 (55.7%) respondents believed that invasive staging is required even in those with a negative mediastinum on PET; 58 (82.9%) respondents were of the opinion that EBUS is the investigation of choice for suspicious mediastinal nodes, while 8 (11.4%) preferred mediastinoscopy.

Conclusion:

Endoscopic techniques have superseded mediastinoscopy for invasive mediastinal evaluation across the country.
Paget–Schroetter syndrome
Authors: Wankhade Bhushan Sudhakar , ElKhouly Adel Elsaid , Alrais Zeyad Faoor , Kholi Mohamed Hamed Ibrahim Ali EL
Published: March 2022

Paget−Schroetter syndrome (PSS), which is also called “effort thrombosis,” is a venous variant of thoracic outlet syndrome. We report a rare case of upper-limb deep venous thrombosis (ULDVT) in a young patient who was later diagnosed as PSS. PSS is a rare cause of ULDVT, and it is usually seen in young adults who are involved in strenuous physical activity. PSS is either due to anatomical abnormality of the thoracic outlet or due to repeated microtrauma to the endothelium of the subclavian/axillary vein. Clinically, the patient usually presents with signs and symptoms of ULDVT. Noninvasive Doppler ultrasonography is the initial investigation of choice, but computerized tomography and digital subtraction angiography are the gold standards for diagnosis. Treatment consists of therapeutic anticoagulation, catheter-directed thrombolysis, first rib resection, and postoperative oral anticoagulation. Although the PSS less likely causes pulmonary embolism, it can contribute to postthrombotic syndrome. PSS is a rare and distinct clinical entity, and most emergency care or primary care physicians are unaware of this condition. PSS requires rapid diagnosis, timely thrombolysis, and prompt referral to a vascular and thoracic surgeon.
Differences between the first and the second wave of critically ill COVID-19 patients admitted to the intensive care units
Authors: Pérez-Acosta Guillermo , Carrillo-Garcia Tanya , Padrón-Espinosa Paula , Santana-Cabrera Luciano , Blanco-López José Javier , González-Martín Jesus Maria , Martín-Gonzalez Juan Carlos
Published: March 2022

Background:

To compare the demographic characteristics and prognosis of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia during the first wave (March−July) versus those admitted during the second wave (August−December).

Methods:

Prospective, observational, descriptive cohort-study including patients admitted to the ICU for COVID-19 pneumonia during the first wave (March−July 2020) or the second wave (August−December). The demographic characteristics, comorbidities, treatments, complications, and mortality in both pandemic waves were studied.

Results:

A total of 72 patients were included: Twenty-six admitted during the first wave and 46 during the second wave. Men were predominant in both waves: 61.5% versus 73.9%. The most frequently associated comorbidities in both periods were: arterial hypertension 65.4% versus 65.2%, diabetes mellitus 46.2% versus 34.8% and overweight, measured as (body mass index), 29.13 ± 3.38 versus 28.98 ± 4.25. More patients received noninvasive mechanical ventilation prior to invasive ventilation during the second wave (P < 0.01); the incidence of atelectasis and bronchial obstruction were lower during the second wave (P < 0.01 and P = 0.055 respectively); no further differences were observed in the occurrence of other complications.

Conclusions:

No significant differences were observed between the first and the second wave in the demographic characteristics or comorbidities of admitted patients. Blood hypertension, diabetes and overweight were remarkable risk factors. Improving our knowledge of the complications, these patients tend to develop was essential to reduce some of them, such as endotracheal tube obstruction or atelectasis, and to promote the use of noninvasive ventilation therapies.
Fatal iliopsoas and rectus sheath hemorrhage in a critically ill patient with COVID-19 on therapeutic anticoagulation
Authors: Ryalino Christopher , Irawan Andi , Aribawa I Gusti Ngurah Mahaalit , Pradhana Adinda Putra , Novianti Putu Astri , Sitanggang Firman Parulian , Dewi Putu Utami
Published: March 2022

Pulmonary embolism and thrombosis are two common postmortem findings in novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the fact which led experts to include anticoagulants in the standard management of COVID-19. However, at least until now, no guidelines stated the exact safe yet optimal dose of anticoagulants. We report a case of a 65-year-old man admitted to our hospital with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome due to COVID-19. He showed remarkable improvement during the first 10 days of treatment at our facility but subsequently developed spontaneous iliopsoas hemorrhage (IPH). We discontinued antithrombotic and anticoagulant agents as soon as we confirmed the IPH from the abdominal computed tomography scan. His condition worsened even after he received adequate blood transfusion sets and eventually developed disseminated intravascular coagulation. Due to the limitation of our hospital, we could not perform stent grafting and angiographic embolization. He finally died 6 days after the occurrence of IPH. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of COVID-19 with IPH in Indonesia. As a developing country, many hospitals in Indonesia do not have stent grafting and angiographic embolization. This condition urges the dose recommendation for anticoagulant therapy to provide safe and efficient management for COVID-19.
Comparison of chest compression quality between 2-minute switch and rescuer fatigue switch
Authors: Savatmongkorngul Sorravit , Yuksen Chaiyaporn , Chumkot Sumalin , Atiksawedparit Pongsakorn , Jenpanitpong Chetsadakon , Watcharakitpaisan Sorawich , Kaninworapan Parama , Maijan Konwachira
Published: March 2022

Background:

Rescuers performing chest compressions (CCs) should be rotated every 2 min or sooner if rescuers become fatigued. Is it preferable to switch rescuers when they become fatigued in such cases? This study was performed to compare the quality of CCs between two scenarios in hospitalized patients with cardiac arrest: 2-minute rescuer switch and rescuer fatigue switch.

Methods:

This randomized controlled trial involved 144 health-care providers, randomized to switch CC on the manikin model with 2-minute or rescuer fatigue. We recorded the CC quality for 20 min.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the percentage of target compressions, mean depth of compressions, or mean compression rate between the two groups. However, the rescuer fatigue switch group showed a significantly lower frequency of interruptions (4 vs. 9 times, P < 0.001) and a longer duration of each compression cycle (237 vs. 117 sec, P < 0.001). The change in the respiratory rate from before to after performing compressions was significantly greater in the 2-minute switch group (12 vs. 8 bpm, P = 0.036).

Conclusion:

The use of a rescuer fatigue switch CC approach resulted in no decrease in the quality of CC, suggesting that it may be used as an alternate strategy for managing in-hospital cardiac arrest.
Beneficial Effects of Alprostin in Patients with Critical Limb Ischemia with Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Patel Jayesh , Shah Pratiksha , Gandhi Fenil
Published: March 2022

Objective:

Medical management of nonre-constructible and failed reconstruction in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) has limited options. The objective was to study the safety and efficacy of Alprostin in the management of patients presenting with Stages III and IV PAD. We hypothesized that administration of Alprostin will lead to an increase in the transcutaneous oximetry (TcPO2) and ankle-brachial index (ABI) values. It may also aid in decreasing limb pain, promote ulcer healing, and increase claudication distance.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study comprising 60 patients who had presented to vascular surgery with clinical features of PAD. According to the Fontaine's staging criteria, only those patients who had presented with Stages III and IV were included in the study. Patients with critical limb ischemia and nonre-constructible or failed vascular reconstruction disease, who had not improved with conservative management, and patients presenting with Stages III and IV PAD were given injection Alprostin. A total of 6 cycles (each cycle for 3 days, every month) of Alprostin were given, dose being 166.66 mcg over 5 h/day. A qualitative assessment was performed, assessing change in rest pain, claudication distance, ulcer healing, and development of complications. In addition, a quantitative assessment was performed by measuring the TcPO2 and ABI before and after the administration of Alprostin.

Results:

The study comprised 60 patients, out of whom 55 were male and 5 were female with a mean age of 48.98. The patients were then classified according to the Fontaine Staging, where 50 patients presented with Stage III and 10 patients presented with Stage IV PAD. After the administration of Alprostin, 100% of patients reported of decrease in pain in lower limb, 70% reported of ulcer healing, 55% reported of increase in claudication distance, and complications were only seen in 5% of the patients. TcPO2 values showed a significant rise after the administration of Alprostin, with P value being 0.001. Finally, ABI values also showed a significant improvement after the administration of Alprostin, with P value being 0.001.

Conclusion:

PAD is a common circulatory condition in which the narrowed arteries in the limbs reduce blood flow to the extremities, most common being lower limbs. There are several lifestyle modifications that can be made to control PAD. Alprostin is a prostaglandin E1 analog, which acts a vasodilator and inhibits platelet aggregation. It helps to reduce vascular cell adhesion molecule levels in circulation, reduces vascular inflammation, promotes ulcer healing, increases claudication distance, and reduces rate of amputation of the affected limb. Hence, it can be concluded that Alprostin has been shown to be a safe and effective drug in patients with nonre-constructible PAD.
Angioma Serpiginosum
Authors: Das Pankaj , Arora Sandeep , Singh Gautam Kumar , Prashantha G B , Barui Sanghita , Singh Vikram
Published: March 2022

Angioma serpiginosum (AS) is an uncommon vascular anomaly with unknown etiopathogenesis. It typically presents as asymptomatic unilateral red-colored macules and papules in linear serpiginous pattern during the first two decades of life. It most frequently affects lower limbs followed by gluteal area. We present a case of AS affecting primarily one-half of the trunk and the ipsilateral limb. The diagnosis was confirmed with dermoscopy that revealed characteristic well-defined round-to-oval red lagoons representing dilated capillaries in the papillary dermis on histopathology.
Rare Case of Large Saccular Pseudoaneurysm from Both Iliac Arteries and Its Management by Endovascular Repair Using Kissing Balloon-Stent Technique
Authors: Bagur Manjunath Venkataramaiah
Published: March 2022

Isolated true and false iliac artery aneurysms are rare. Cases of iliac artery pseudoaneurysm are even less common and very rarely reported in the literature. Unless interventions are done immediately by either open surgical repair or endovascular repair, the mortality rate remains very high (>50%). We present a complicated case of large saccular pseudoaneurysm from both iliac arteries undergoing a unique procedure of “kissing balloon stent” technique.
Effect of nursing care by using Extended Nursing Care Model on quality of life of patients after coronary artery bypass graft
Authors: Chaudhari Jyoti M. , Pani Sankarsan , Mhaske Anuradha , Mulay Anvay
Published: March 2022

Background:

Though coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is a life-saving surgery and a standardized procedure, the aim of the surgery is survival with quality of life (QOL). The extended role of the nurse was well recommended in community and clinical settings with the support of multidisciplinary team for safe care. The Extended Nursing Care Model (ENCM) provides the framework to facilitate early recovery and thereby improve the QOL and overall productivity after CABG.

Aim and Objective:

The aim of this article is to compare the difference in QOL of CABG patients with and without ENCM.

Materials and Methods:

Quasi-experimental Time Series Design with Comparison Group was used to study the effectiveness of ENCM. Among CABG patients enrolled on the day of admission with non-probability purposive sampling technique, 140 patients were randomly and equally distributed in the study and control groups on the day of discharge for recovery management. Generic EQ-5D-5L scale and MacNew Heart Disease-related QOL (MNHDRQOL) questionnaire were used to collect data at frequent intervals. The data obtained successfully from 69 patients in the study group and 63 patients in the control group were analyzed by using SPSS-21 Statistical Software, Mann–Whitney U-test, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results:

There was an improvement in the EQ-5D-5L score and MNHDRQOL score from baseline (before surgery) to 6th week and 12th week after surgery. This difference is statistically higher in the study group than in the control group (P <0.05) in all five domains of Euro QOL and all three domains of MNHDRQOL.

Conclusion:

Nursing care provided by using ENCM is effective in improving the QOL of CABG patients.
Lymphangioma circumscriptum of scrotum
Authors: Phukan Jyoti Prakash , Sinha Anuradha , Das Kapil Dev , Mazumdar Mohua
Published: March 2022

Lymphangioma circumscriptum (LC) is a form of lymphatic hamartoma, which mainly involves the skin and subcutaneous tissues. The mucosa of the mouth, tongue, groin, trunk, and axilla are the most common locations of LC, and the scrotum is a rare site of occurrence. Here we report a case of LC of scrotum occurring in a 58-year-old man without any history of surgery and radiation. The man was presented with multiple small vesicles containing clear fluid in the scrotum and subsequent histopathology confirmed the diagnosis. We are presenting this case for its rare presentation.
Impact of morbidity among under-five children
Authors: Mathad Vijayashree Shivprasad , Mahanshetti Niranjana S. , Naik Vijaya Ashok
Published: March 2022

The burden of morbidity and mortality among infants is the highest in developing countries. The future economic growth of a country depends upon the well-being of the infants of today; hence, infants need the utmost attention of society through organized medical care and social activities. Feeding infants and young children properly are essential for their growth, development, nutritional status, health, and survival. Improper feeding practices may lead to irreversible outcomes like malnutrition, infectious diseases, attention deficit, memory failure, lower IQ, and lifelong poor cognitive and behavioral development. This review was taken to assess the cause, prevalence, and impact of various morbidities during infancies. The literature search covered both conceptual and specific literature. The specific literature search was on the assessment of morbidities among infants. Morbidities were further classified into diarrhea, acute respiratory infections (ARIs), and fever. Factors affecting each morbidity during the first year of life were classified as International and Indian studies. The studies were further categorized based on methodology as cross-sectional, prospective studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis. We conclude that the incidence of morbidities specifically ARIs, diarrhea, and fever have a debilitating effect on the growth and development of infants. Further research is required to assess the impact of morbidity on growth and development in children.
Effect of McConnell Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Protocol on Pain and Functional Disability in Tibiofemoral Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sutar Simran A , Samson Akhil , Palekar Tushar J
Published: March 2022

Introduction:

Osteoarthritis (OA) being a common condition is one of the leading causes of musculoskeletal pain and functional disability.

Purpose:

This purpose of this study was to find the effect of McConnell patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) protocol in participants with Grade 2 tibiofemoral OA.

Settings and Design:

This was an experimental pilot study and on participants above 40 years of age. Fifteen patients with Grade 2 tibiofemoral OA of knee were included.

Subjects and Methods:

The participants were screened on the basis of diagnosed case by orthopedician with the help of X-ray. Participants above 40 years of age were selected including both male and female. The changes in the subject's pain and functional disability were evaluated by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities OA Index (WOMAC) scale.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Shapiro − Wilk test was used to check the normality of data and as it was found to be normally distributed, paired t-test used to analyze within group differences by comparing pre- and postreadings of WOMAC and VAS.

Results:

Participants with grade 2 tibiofemoral OA of knee had a significant decrease in pain and functional disability as seen in VAS scale, P value was 0.0005 and for WOMAC, P value was 0.0001.

Conclusion:

This study concludes that McConnell PFPS protocol had an upper hand in reducing functional disability and pain in Grade-2 tibiofemoral OA of knee.
A Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis with Unusual Cause
Authors: Koplay Tugba Gun , Yildiran Gokce
Published: March 2022

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare, rapidly progressive infection with high mortality rates. Foreign body is one of the most common etiologic factors for NF. Soft tissue fillers are foreign bodies which are used for a number of indications by clinicians and nonclinicians. Besides the products approved by the Food and Drug Administration many materials such as vegetable oils are used as fillers. Herein, we evaluated an unusual case with NF due to olive oil injection together with a cloud of literature.
A Rare Tumor at an Unusual Age
Authors: Celik Murat , Kara Murat , Unverdi Hatice , Kocer Ugur
Published: March 2022

Bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation (BPOP) is a rare lesion that usually arises in short bones of the hand and feet. It is typically seen in the third and fourth decades, seldom seen in the pediatric age group. A 6-year-old girl was presented with swelling over the ring finger of the left hand. The radiograph showed ectopic calcification and periosteal reaction in the ring finger. Computed tomography was performed, and a BPOP diagnosis was made on the preoperative finding. Excision of the lesion with overlying pseudocapsule and decortication was performed with a piezoelectric device. The patient is currently in a routine follow-up without recurrence. There is not enough data for treatment and follow-up BPOP in pediatric patients. The present case would contribute to the literature in the management of this rare presentation.
Stratigraphy and Palaeobiogeography of Mesozoic Benthic Foraminifera - Part 1
Authors:   Croatian Geological Survey, Zagreb, Croatia, Velić Ivo
Published: March 2022

The Adriatic Carbonate Platform (AdCP), was a separate shallowmarine depositional system characterized by a lack of terrigenous input and was connected to Gondwana towards the South via Gavrovo–Tripolitza or Apulia. It existed for approximately 120 MY, from the Early Jurassic Pliensbachian/Toarcian) to the end of the Cretaceous, resulting in a 4000–6500 m thick succession of almost pure carbonates. However, this is part of a thicker (>8000 m) sequence of predominantly carbonate rocks which forms the Karst Dinarides, and was deposited during more than 270 MY – at least from the Carboniferous (Moscovian) to the Late Eocene. Among many different groups of fossil organisms, benthic foraminifera are especially abundant and well preserved, so they, along with calcareous algae (Dasycladales), are the most important fossils used for age determination and stratigraphic subdivision of shallow-marine carbonate deposits. Within the 257 determined taxa belonging to different foraminiferal families which lived through the Mesozoic, numerous different index fossils occur in assemblages indicating various ages: Early Triassic, Anisian, Carnian, Norian–Rhaetian, Late Sinemurian, Early and Late Pliensbachian (Carixian and Domerian), Early and Late Aalenian, Early and Late Bajocian, Early and Late Bathonian, Callovian, Early and Late Oxfordian, Kimmeridgian, Tithonian, Berriasian, Valanginian, Late Hauterivian, Late Barremian, Early and Late Aptian (Bedulian and Gargasian), Early and Late Albian, Early, Middle and Late Cenomanian, Turonian, Coniacian, Santonian, Early and Late Campanian and Early and Late Maastrichtian. A total of 64 biostratigraphic units – biozones of different categories, from subzone to superzone, were defined within the stratigraphic interval from the Carnian to the Late Maastrichtian. This enabled very detailed biostratigraphic subdivision of the carbonate deposits within the Karst Dinarides. This is one of the most precise sequences, not only in this area, but also among former shallow marine deposits of the entire Neotethyan realm in the present Mediterranean region. The palaeobiogeographic characteristics of biotopes and the composition of foraminiferal assemblages during the Mesozoic were controlled by the position of the study area within the Neotethyan bioprovinces. Until the Albian, this area represented part of the Southern Neotethyan bioprovince, while from the Cenomanian to its final disintegration at the end of the Cretaceous it belonged to a separate, Central Mediterranean Neotethyan bioprovince.