bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth in the Worldwide Stock of E-Mobility Vehicles (by Technology and by Transport Mode) and the Worldwide Stock of Hydrogen Refueling Stations and Electric Charging Points between 2020 and 2022
Authors: Marzouk Osama Ahmad
Published: December 2023

This study discusses the portion of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the worldwide stock of vehicles on roads, particularly when compared to plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), which comprise battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The study considers the overall number of these e-mobility (electric mobility) vehicles, as well as within each of 4 transport modes, namely: (1) passenger light-duty vehicles (PLDVs or simply “cars”), (2) light commercial vehicles (LCVs or simply “vans”), (3) buses, and (4) trucks. The study also investigates the progress in the number of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) for FCEVs, and contrasts that with electric charging points (ECPs) for PEVs; during the years 2020, 2021, and 2022. While the number of worldwide FCEVs nearly doubled in 2022 compared to 2020, the ratio of FCEVs to PEVs declined from 0.3348% in 2020 to 0.2738% (less than 0.3%) in 2022. In 2022 also, the number of FCEVs was 0.3914% (less than 0.4%) of the number of BEVs, and 0.9113% (less than 1%) of the number of PHEVs. The worldwide fraction of PEVs with respect to the total vehicles (both electric and non-electric) in 2022 was approximately 1.816% (split into 1.2704% for BEVs and 0.5456% for PHEVs), while the fraction of FCEVs was approximately 0.0050% (only 5 FCEVs per 100,000 vehicles). In terms of the convenience to supply the vehicles with energy, the number of worldwide hydrogen refueling stations nearly doubled in 2022 compared to 2020. Similarly, the worldwide number of electric charging points for use with PEVs nearly doubled in 2022 compared to 2020. However, the ratio of HRSs to ECPs declined from 0.0415% in 2020 to 0.0378% in 2022. The worldwide average FCEVs per HRS in 2022 was 70.69, while the worldwide average PEVs per ECP in 2022 was 9.75. Thus, PEVs are much more attractive than FCEVs for a driver concerned about the network of hydrogen stations. Furthermore, owners of PEVs have an additional option of recharging their vehicles at home (which is not applicable for FCEVs). Between 2020 and 2022, PEVs were dominated by BEVs, with 69.95% of PEVs being BEVs in 2022. This 2022 fraction of BEVs in PEVs reflects a consistent increase from the 2021 fraction (68.34%) and from the 2020 fraction (67.23%). Considering the worldwide increase in these e-mobility vehicles from 2020 to 2022, the number of FCEVs increased by a factor of 2.072, PHEVs increased by a factor of 2.322, and BEVs increased by a factor of 2.636, PEVs increased by a factor of 2.533. Thus, out of the 3 e-mobility vehicle technologies (FCEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs), BEVs had the strongest presence as well as the fastest growth.
Production of NaNi0.5Co0.3Mn0.2O2 (Na-NCM 532) for Sodium-Ion Battery via Combination Method
Authors: Stulasti Khikmah Nur Rikhy , Setyawati Rosana Budi , Azinuddin Yazid Rijal , Suci Windhu Griyasti , Aliwarga Harry Kasuma Kiwi , Purwanto Agus
Published: December 2023

Battery technology applications for energy storage are currently increasing. The most popular kind of battery in use today is the lithium-ion battery. However, lithium is limited. In fact, the need for batteries as energy storage devices grows over time. One alternative for replacing lithium-ion batteries is the sodium-ion battery because its characteristics are similar to lithium’s and it is very abundant. In this study, Na-NCM 532 has been successfully produced using a co-precipitation and solid-state method combination. The co-precipitation process, using oxalic acid as a precipitation agent and ammonia as a pH adjustor, can be used to create sodium ion-based cathode materials. It is clear from the characterization that the material has been formed and has a good structure. A hexagonally layered material structure can be seen in the XRD patterns. FTIR analysis revealed that the material was produced after the sintering process. The morphology of the substance, which has dimensions between 1 to 5 micrometers, was revealed by a SEM investigation. The EIS test results show a battery conductivity of 1.24 x 10-4 Scm-1. The electrochemical performance of the Na-NCM 532 cathode sodium battery and hard carbon anode was evaluated in a type 18650 cylindrical cell. The sodium battery was tested at a voltage window of 1.5-3.7 V and a current of 0.05C produced a capacity of 40 mAhg-1.
Fabrication and Characterization of Eco-Friendly Polystyrene Based Zinc Oxide-Graphite (PS/ZnO-G)
Authors: Aldosari Haia
Published: December 2023

One of the most significant environmental challenges nowadays is the rising manufacturing of non-biodegradable polymer wastes like polystyrene. In order purpose of manufacture environmentally friendly polystyrene that easily decomposes, a solvent approach was used to create polystyrene based zinc oxide- graphite composites. The surface morphology and materials contained in the modified polystyrene were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analysis to verify the dispersion and distribution of the nanoparticles by scanning electron microscopy and the material contents by energy dispersive X-ray analysis. While the crystal structure, chemical bonds, and functions were determined by X-ray Diffraction and Fourier transform infrared, no change in the chemical structure occurred in polystyrene. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to assess the thermal decomposition. And its results found that the temperature of the decomposition was 46.78° lower in zinc oxide and graphite-based polystyrene composites than in pure polystyrene. It came to light that the presence of zinc oxide nanoparticles causes phase separation and consequently impacts the thermal behaviour of graphite-based polystyrene composites. The phase separation was demonstrated by the Thermogravimetric curves showing two degrading steps. This satisfies the urgent demand to synthesize polystyrene that is eco-friendly and easy to thermally decomposition, as well as easy to recycle, which benefits both the environment and the commercial side.
Assessing the Applicability of Uncovered Interest Parity in the South Asian Frontier Financial Markets
Authors: De Silva W. A. M. , Weerasinghe W. D. J. D.
Published: December 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this research is to establish whether, the Uncovered Interest Parity (UIP) condition exists in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, categorized as the South Asian frontier financial markets.Design/Methodology/Approach: The research uses the deductive approach. The data was collected from International Monetary Fund Statistics. The data set used consists of monthly data from March 2010 to April 2020. Interest rate differential was employed as the independent variable in this study, with the foreign currency exchange rate differential as the dependent variable. The researcher used the Cointegration model and the Vector Error Correction Model to analyze the data to measure the long-term and short-term impact respectively.Findings: It was found that, interest rate differential had a statistically insignificant negative relationship with the exchange rate differential in all three countries both in the short and long run. The overall test results show that the rejection of UIP hypothesis within the given time frame in South Asian frontier financial markets confirming the previous findings relating to practical situation of UIP condition.Originality: This article reviews the rejection of UIP condition in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, categorized as the South Asian frontier financial markets. In a single paper it provides both short-term and long-term rejection of UIP. The rejection of the UIP condition implies that there is a possibility for an arbitrage opportunity.Future Direction: The future research can assess the applicability of UIP for a larger sample and different data analysis techniques such as Generalized Method of Moment.
Effectiveness of forensic medicine practices: Rwanda facing shortage of forensic pathologists
Authors: Nteziryayo D. , Xinshe Liu , Mushumba H.
Published: December 2023

Forensic pathology has often been disregarded in both Western and non-Western countries, including the African nations. In this article, we highlight the shortage of forensic pathologists in Rwanda and make recommendations to encourage physicians to pursue the subspecialty of forensic pathology. Critically, we analysed issues and challenges related to the inadequate supply of forensic pathologists in the healthcare sector of Rwanda. The authors referred to scientific and legal literature from books, journals, national and international reports, and electronic sources on forensic pathology training and workforce. As a result, authors have identified several reasons for the shortage, including lack of exposure to forensic pathology, absence of a direct path for forensic pathology training, and insufficient funding for fellowships in forensic pathology. It is important to note that there is a global shortage of forensic pathologists, which hinders the effective practice of forensic medicine, including examinations and assessments of various types of deaths and incidents. This ultimately affects the administration of justice. However, it is hopeful that Rwanda's efforts in the field of forensic medicine will have a positive influence on other African nations in the coming years.
Should all the crimes reported to a medical officer be mandatorily informed to law enforcement authorities in Sri Lanka? An ethico-legal interpretation
Authors: Kodikara Sarathchandra
Published: December 2023

No abstract available
p38 MAPK inhibitor SB202190 suppresses ferroptosis in the glutamate-induced retinal excitotoxicity glaucoma model
Authors: Feng Lemeng , Wang Chao , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Wulong , Zhu Weiming , He Ye , Xia Zhaohua , Song Weitao
Published: December 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202410000-00031/figure1/v/2024-02-06T055622Z/r/image-tiff

Glutamate excitotoxicity has been shown to play an important role in glaucoma, and glutamate can induce ferroptosis. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway inhibitor SB202190 has a potential ability to suppress ferroptosis, and its downstream targets, such as p53, have been shown to be associated with ferroptosis. However, whether ferroptosis also occurs in retinal ganglion cells in response to glutamate excitotoxicity and whether inhibition of ferroptosis reduces the loss of retinal ganglion cells induced by glutamate excitotoxicity remain unclear. This study investigated ferroptosis in a glutamate-induced glaucoma rat model and explored the effects and molecular mechanisms of SB202190 on retinal ganglion cells. A glutamate-induced excitotoxicity model in R28 cells and an N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced glaucoma model in rats were used. In vitro experiments showed that glutamate induced the accumulation of iron and lipid peroxide and morphological changes of mitochondria in R28 cells, and SB202190 inhibited these changes. Glutamate induced the levels of p-p38 MAPK/p38 MAPK and SAT1 and decreased the expression levels of ferritin light chain, SLC7A11, and GPX4. SB202190 inhibited the expression of iron death-related proteins induced by glutamate. In vivo experiments showed that SB202190 attenuated N-methyl-D-aspartate-induced damage to rat retinal ganglion cells and improved visual function. These results suggest that SB202190 can inhibit ferroptosis and protect retinal ganglion cells by regulating ferritin light chain, SAT1, and SLC7A11/Gpx4 pathways and may represent a potential retina protectant.
Screening biomarkers for spinal cord injury using weighted gene co-expression network analysis and machine learning
Authors: Li Xiaolu , Yang Ye , Xu Senming , Gui Yuchang , Chen Jianmin , Xu Jianwen
Published: December 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202412000-00028/figure1/v/2024-05-29T122840Z/r/image-tiff

Immune changes and inflammatory responses have been identified as central events in the pathological process of spinal cord injury. They can greatly affect nerve regeneration and functional recovery. However, there is still limited understanding of the peripheral immune inflammatory response in spinal cord injury. In this study, we obtained microRNA expression profiles from the peripheral blood of patients with spinal cord injury using high-throughput sequencing. We also obtained the mRNA expression profile of spinal cord injury patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database (GSE151371). We identified 54 differentially expressed microRNAs and 1656 differentially expressed genes using bioinformatics approaches. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that various common immune and inflammation-related signaling pathways, such as neutrophil extracellular trap formation pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway, and nuclear factor-κB signal pathway, were abnormally activated or inhibited in spinal cord injury patient samples. We applied an integrated strategy that combines weighted gene co-expression network analysis, LASSO logistic regression, and SVM-RFE algorithm and identified three biomarkers associated with spinal cord injury: ANO10, BST1, and ZFP36L2. We verified the expression levels and diagnostic performance of these three genes in the original training dataset and clinical samples through the receiver operating characteristic curve. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction results showed that ANO10 and BST1 mRNA levels were increased and ZFP36L2 mRNA was decreased in the peripheral blood of spinal cord injury patients. We also constructed a small RNA-mRNA interaction network using Cytoscape. Additionally, we evaluated the proportion of 22 types of immune cells in the peripheral blood of spinal cord injury patients using the CIBERSORT tool. The proportions of naïve B cells, plasma cells, monocytes, and neutrophils were increased while the proportions of memory B cells, CD8+ T cells, resting natural killer cells, resting dendritic cells, and eosinophils were markedly decreased in spinal cord injury patients increased compared with healthy subjects, and ANO10, BST1 and ZFP26L2 were closely related to the proportion of certain immune cell types. The findings from this study provide new directions for the development of treatment strategies related to immune inflammation in spinal cord injury and suggest that ANO10, BST1, and ZFP36L2 are potential biomarkers for spinal cord injury. The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registration No. ChiCTR2200066985, December 12, 2022).
OSMR is a potential driver of inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Chen Wenzhi , Jiang Shishi , Li Shu , Li Cheng , Xu Renshi
Published: December 2023

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202411000-00031/figure1/v/2024-04-10T160327Z/r/image-tiff

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease, and the molecular mechanism underlying its pathology remains poorly understood. However, inflammation is known to play an important role in the development of this condition. To identify driver genes that affect the inflammatory response in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as potential treatment targets, it is crucial to analyze brain tissue samples from patients with both sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Therefore, in this study we used a network-driven gene analysis tool, NetBID2.0, which is based on SJARACNe, a scalable algorithm for the reconstruction of accurate cellular networks, to experimentally analyze sequencing data from patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The results showed that the OSMR gene is pathogenic in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and participates in the progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by mediating the neuroinflammatory response. Furthermore, there were differences in OSMR activity and expression between patients with sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and those with C9orf72-related amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. These findings suggest that OSMR may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Assessment of the Clinic-pathological Profile of Patients with Pancytopenia
Authors: Tiwari Mohan , Kaushal Harsh , Chowdhary Rajib Ratna , Shyam Sarda Mukund , Pujara Ruchi
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Pancytopenia is an important clinico-hematological condition encountered in day-to-day clinical practice. Pancytopenia is often very difficult to diagnose and treat often owing to its varied aetiologies, causes might ranging from infections, nutritional deficiencies to malignancies.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Department of General Medicine, Rohilkhand Medical College and Hospital, Bareilly. Patients’ information was filled in pro forma, and contains patient’s age, gender, clinical features, clinical findings, CBC findings, bone marrow findings, and diagnosis from all patients collected. Detailed clinical history and clinical examination along with blood investigation were carried out.

Results:

In the present study, the mean level of platelets was 54,000 ± 31,549/µL, with a minimum level of 2000/µL and a maximum level of 130,000/µL, indicating that majority of patients suffered from thrombocytopenia. The mean level of white blood cells (WBCs) was 2873.4 ± 780.4/µL, with a minimum level of 1000/µL and a maximum level of 3860/µL, indicating that all the patients suffered from leukopenia. 30% of patients had normocytic normochromic RBC, 24% had macrocytic normochromic RBC, 22% had macrocytic hyperchromic, 6% had microcytic normochromic, 8% had microcytic hypochromic, and 10% had both macrocytic and microcytic RBCs.

Conclusion:

Mean values of Hb, WBC & Platelet count was non-significantly higher among female patients comparing to males, though mean value of MCV was non-significantly higher in male patients comparing to females.
Supernumerary Teeth: Case Series with their Planned Management
Authors: Jain Chhavi , Sharma Nilima
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth to normal dental formula. They are developmental anomalies which may have multiple etiologies. They may or may not erupt in the oral cavity and are mostly diagnosed incidentally.

Case Reports:

This is the presentation of case series of seven such different types of supernumerary teeth. Among these cases, the treatment of two cases has been shown along with their photographs.

Conclusion:

Their most common form is mesiodens which are commonly found in the maxillary anterior region creating unesthetic appearance for which patient seeks treatment. If not diagnosed and managed on time they can create complications such as malalignment, diastema, crowding, noneruption, delayed, or altered eruption of permanent tooth. This case series is an attempt to showcase the deleterious effect of supernumerary teeth and their varied clinical presentation along with their plan of management.
Effect of simulated cataract on the accuracy of artificial intelligence in detecting diabetic retinopathy in color fundus photos
Authors: Crane Alexander B , Choudhry Hassaam S , Dastjerdi Mohammad H
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is often trained on images without ocular co-morbidities, limiting its generalizability. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of a convolutional neural network (CNN) applied to color fundus photos (CFPs) with simulated cataracts (SCs) in detecting diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods:

A database of 3662 CFPs (from Asia Pacific Tele-Ophthalmology Society (APTOS) 2019) was used. Using transfer learning, a CNN was trained to classify the training images as either DR or non-DR. The CNN was then applied to classify the testing images after an SC was applied, using varying degrees of Gaussian blur.

Results:

Accuracy without SC was 97.0%, sensitivity (Sn) 95.7%, specificity (Sp) 98.3%. For mild SC, accuracy was 93.1%, Sn 91.8%, Sp 94.3%. For moderate SC, accuracy was 62.8%, Sn 31.4%, Sp 95.2%. For severe SC, accuracy was 53.5%, Sn 11.8%, Sp 96.5%.

Conclusion:

SCs significantly impaired AI accuracy. To prepare AI for clinical use, cataracts and other real-world clinical challenges affecting image quality must be accounted for.
Reasons for declining corneal refractive laser correction for refractive candidates in Southern India
Authors: Anitha Venugopal , Rajaraman Revathi , Periasamy Mangala , Ravindran Meenakshi , Rangappa Ramakrishnan , Uduman Mohammed Sithiq
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To analyze the reasons for declining corneal refractive laser correction procedures in patients presenting to tertiary eye care centers in Tamil Nadu, Southern India, and review the literature.

Methods:

Retrospective case records of subjects presenting from January 2019 to December 2021 for refractive surgery workup were analyzed. Demographic details and refractive parameters of patients rejected for corneal refractive laser corrections (CRLC) were documented and reviewed.

Results:

A total of 2358 patients presented for refractive surgery evaluation during the study period, and out of them, 395 patients (16.8%) were not considered ideal candidates for undergoing CRLC. The common reasons for rejecting the patients were unfit topography (n = 110, 27.8%), unstable refraction over a one-year duration (n = 9, 2.27%), low corneal thickness (n = 85, 21.5%), keratoconus (n = 5, 12.9%), and other ocular and systemic disorders (n = 48, 12.1%).

Conclusion:

There was a marked change in magnitude and rationalization for not performing either laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) or photorefractive keratectomy in our study. The reasons are unfit topography, keratoconus, and systemic disorders, which were diagnosed during pre-LASIK screening workup, being the most common cause for rejecting patients for corneal refractive corrections.
Late postoperative vitreous cavity hemorrhage after vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy—observation versus intervention
Authors: Brar Anand S , Behera Umesh C , Karande Sayali , Kanakagiri Akhila , Sugumar Shalini , Rani Padmaja K , Vignesh T P , Manayath George , Salian Romit , Giridhar Anantharaman , Indurkhya Swati , Bhattacharjee Harsha , Raman Rajiv , Sivaprasad Sobha
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To analyze the outcome of intervention versus observation for vitreous cavity hemorrhage occurring after a 2-month period of blood-free cavity (late postoperative vitreous cavity hemorrhage—POVCH) in eyes operated by vitrectomy for complications of proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).

Methods:

This study was a 10-year retrospective, observational, multi-center study involving eight major vitreoretinal surgical centers across India from January 2010 to December 2019. The primary objective of the study was to assess the visual and clinical outcomes of various management approaches for late POVCH. The key secondary objective was to determine the best management option that prevented recurrence. Patients with follow-up of less than 6 months of POVCH management were excluded.

Results:

The occurrence of late POVCH was studied in 261 eyes. The median time to occurrence was 7 months (range: 2–87) postvitrectomy/silicone oil removal. The majority (58%) experienced a single, nonrecurring POVCH event. Visual acuity outcome was independent of all management approaches (P= 0.179; mean follow-up 20.7 ± 14.1 months). With watchful observation, spontaneous resolution was noted in 83% (60/72 eyes) of eyes in 81.5 days (interquartile range, 169.75). Silicone oil injection was most effective in preventing recurrence (P< 0.001).

Conclusion:

The current treatment practice of late POVCH management in PDR suggests that watchful observation for at least 3 months could be as efficacious as any surgical intervention.
An outbreak of subhyaloid hemorrhage after accidental laser exposure during an Indian festival
Authors: Shah Rachana Prashant , Dabre Zeenal George , Sengupta Sabyasachi
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To report the clinical manifestations and outcomes of patients who experienced retinal damage due to accidental laser exposure during a festival in Kolhapur, Maharashtra.

Methods:

Consecutive patients who presented with sudden loss of vision following exposure to laser lights during a religious Indian festival (Ganapati festival) on the same day (9 September 2022) at the same location (idol visarjan procession) were identified from the medical records of various eye hospitals in Kolhapur district of Maharashtra. Eyes with persistent subhyaloid hemorrhage (SHH) were taken up for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) posterior hyaloidotomy. Patients were examined at weekly intervals up to 1 month.

Results:

Thirty-four eyes of 34 men were identified with age ranging from 18 to 27 years. The mean duration of exposure to the laser projections was 4.9 ± 1.7 h, and the mean distance from the laser source was 7.3 ± 2.7 feet. All presented with SHH involving the macula. SHH had a median size of 3 disc diameters or larger in 30 eyes (88%), and 29 (97%) of these required hyaloidotomy while one patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy. The mean visual acuity improved from 1.45 ± 0.5 log of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR; 20/560 Snellen) to 0.11 ± 0.19 logMAR (20/25 Snellen) (P < 0.001). One eye showed full-thickness macular hole with visual acuity of 20/200.

Conclusion:

We report a large number of patients experiencing laser-induced SHH, resembling an outbreak, due to exposure to a malfunctioning high-powered recreational laser during a religious festival.
Surgical challenges of posterior optic capture in pediatric cataract surgery
Authors: Sukhija Jaspreet , Kaur Savleen , Korla Shagun , Kumari Kiran
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

The efficacy of posterior optic capture (POC) in reducing posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in pediatric cataract is well recognized. The purpose of this paper was to identify the surgical challenges when attempting this technique and highlight the etiquettes to follow when performing this maneuver.

Methods:

Prospective observational noncomparative case series. Children diagnosed with congenital or developmental cataracts undergoing cataract surgery and primary IOL implantation with posterior optic capture (and no anterior vitrectomy) from June 2017 to April 2022 at a tertiary care referral institute were included. Records of all intraoperative findings and postoperative complications until the last follow-up were noted.

Results:

Posterior optic capture was attempted in 53 eyes of 49 children aged 2.4 ± 1.98 years. The mean follow-up of the patients was 16.5 ± 14.2 months (range 6 months–5 years). Successful POC could be performed in 46 eyes (86.8%). Two eyes developed posterior capsular opacification at the last follow-up. In eyes where POC could not be performed, five of these (83%) were children below 12 months of age with half of them having a preexisting posterior capsular defect.

Conclusion:

Posterior optic capture is technically challenging with a steep learning curve that can be mastered over time. Adequate relative sizing of the anterior and posterior capsulorhexis is important. Caution is advised when using this technique in infants and in cases with posterior capsular defects.
Preferred practice patterns for keratoconus: An e-survey among Indian cornea specialists
Authors: Kapur Neha , Chatterjee Samrat , Gomase Sharad Nivrutti , Khurana Ashi , Parmar Gautam , Sangwan Virendra Singh
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to report practice patterns in the management of keratoconus in India.

Methods:

An e-survey was conducted among members of the Cornea Society of India to assess preferred practice patterns for keratoconus.

Results:

Of the 912 members, 234 (25.7%) completed the survey. About 88.4% worked in private eye care facilities and 76.1% in cities. Of all the respondents, 91.5% had access to a Scheimpflug-based device or an Orbscan II®; 71.4% of the respondents dispensed scleral contact lenses, and 66.7% dispensed Rose K contact lenses; 92.7% of the respondents performed corneal cross-linking (CXL); and 73.1% of the respondents performed deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). A Scheimpflug device or Orbscan II®, Rose K or scleral contact lenses, and CXL were more readily available (P < 0.05) in private eye care facilities. The diagnostic criteria for keratoconus followed by the majority of the respondents (52.1%) were increase in corneal curvature, elevation, and thickness. An increase in keratometry values greater than 0.5 or 1.0D in a 6-month to 1-year period was considered the most favored criterion for keratoconus progression. Epithelium-off, 0.1% riboflavin solution in dextran, and accelerated protocol were the more commonly reported techniques in CXL. About 77.2% of the respondents routinely performed CXL in corneas <400 microns thick. Spectacles (91.0% of the respondents) and topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (37.6% of the respondents) were, respectively, the preferred optical and surgical methods used to improve vision.

Conclusion:

While keratoconus management in India is comparable to other developed healthcare systems, the concentration of trained corneal surgeons in cities and private eyecare facilities may lead to less equitable distribution of treatment across the country.
Initiation, Treatment Response Evaluation, and Safety Monitoring of Angiotensin Receptor/Neprilysin Inhibitors (Sacubitril/Valsartan) in the Management of Heart Failure in India: An Expert Group Recommendations
Authors: Jadhav Uday M. , Chopra V. K. , Ray S. , Oomman A.
Published: December 2023

Angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) have become a pillar of heart failure (HF) management. Clinicians gain practical insight into the use of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (EF) from a comprehensive overview based on clinical experience with ARNI therapy. The objective was to develop a consensus document addressing common concerns regarding the use of ARNI in patients with HF in clinical settings in India. Subject matter experts (SMEs) from India with decision-making expertise in the management of HF were identified to address experiences of ARNI use in Indian patients, its function in reversing myocardial remodeling, improvement in health status, and its safety. In regional meetings, five SMEs from India who consented to participate discussed data from practical experiences and current evidence. ARNI has been shown to substantially enhance EF 5%–10% in a majority of HF patients, although the range of improvement could vary widely in a few patients. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blocker antagonists have been eclipsed by ARNI. Patients who have diminished or declining estimated glomerular filtration rates are more likely than those with normal renal function to experience hyperkalemia. It is prudent to consistently monitor potassium levels in patients with borderline chronic kidney disease. In India, potassium binders may be used to temporarily control hyperkalemia caused by ARNI. Patients with a systolic blood pressure of <100 mmHg may initiate taking ARNI while being tracked for clinical symptoms. In clinical practice, symptomatic improvement with ARNI is observed soon after initiating, even before alterations noted in echocardiography.
Comparative Evaluation of Different Endodontic Access Cavity Designs with Different Burs—An in vitro Experimental Insight into the Aspect of Fracture Resistance
Authors: Langaliya Akshayraj K. , Parmar Girish , Panchal Drashti , Thakkar Jainish , Shah Jinali , Patel Rushvi
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

In vitro fracture resistance of extracted mandibular molars treated with various access cavity designs, including traditional endodontic cavity (TradAC), conservative/contracted endodontic cavity (ConsAC), ninja endodontic cavity (UltraAC), truss endodontic cavity (TrussAC), caries-driven access cavity (CariesAC), and intact teeth, is the focus of this study.

Materials and Methods:

Six groups of 20 mandibular molars, totaling 120, were used in the investigation. While the other five groups underwent various access cavity preparations, chemomechanical preparation, and obturation procedures before being repaired with composite resin, Group 1 was left unaltered (the control). A 6 mm round head tip was used to apply the fracture force, which was measured in newtons, at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min until fracture developed.

Results:

According to the current study, the intact control group had the maximum fracture resistance. The access cavity groups’ mean values were maximum in CariesAC followed by ConsAC, TrussAC, UltraAC, and TraditonalAC respectively.

Conclusion:

While among the four minimally invasive designs, CariesAC showed a higher fracture resistance despite the results being statistically insignificant, TradAC had a significantly lower resistance than other conservative access cavity designs.
Assessment of Efficacy of Various Bracket Base Retention Qualities on Shear Bond Strength
Authors: Tomer Geetika , Verghese Yohan , Raje Batham Prerna , Panika Ashok , Sharma Shaivi , Kochhar Anuraj Singh , Kaur Manpreet
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Numerous manufacturers have improved bracket retention systems as a result of the frequent bond failure that occurs during orthodontic treatment. One of the elements affecting the adhesive’s bond strength is the bracket retention mechanism.

Objectives:

This study’s objective was to assess how various bracket base retention characters affected shear bond strength.

Materials and Methods:

Four distinct base features for brackets were evaluated. The basic design was examined using a scanning electron microscope. On the Universal testing equipment, brackets were glued to human teeth and then released.

Results:

The findings indicate that the polymer-coated base’s overall mean SBS, which had a mean value of 21.64 ± 4.14 MPa, was considerably greater than that of the other brackets (P 0.05). The foil meshpad, photochemically etched base, and laser-structured base had mean SBS values of 15.12 ± 5.75 MPa, 16.86 ± 3.76 MPa, and 19.32 ± 4.23MPa, respectively.

Conclusions:

Following laser-structured base and photochemically etched base brackets in terms of shear bond strength were polymer-coated base brackets. The shear bond strength was the lowest in the plain foil mesh pads.
Assessment of a Bracket-Bonding System’s Shear Bond Strength after it has been Cured using Various Light-Curing Units at Different Time Intervals
Authors: Alharbi Adel
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To assess a bracket-bonding system’s shear bond strength cured with dissimilar light-curing units at different time intervals.

Materials and Method:

Sixty premolar teeth removed for orthodontic purposes were categorized into four types based on the light-curing unit and exposure times used. The specimens in the halogen group were exposed to light for 15 (Group I) and 30 (Group II) sec, respectively. The specimens were exposed to light for 10 (Group III) and 15 sec in the LED group (Group IV). The amount of adhesive still present on the teeth was measured using a stereomicroscope at a magnification of 10 and was then assessed with the help of adhesive remnant index (ARI).

Result:

The group with the highest mean SBS was in Group II followed by Group I, Group III, and the group with the lowest mean SBS. The ARI was unaffected by the light-curing technique, with score 2 predominating

Conclusion:

In all groups, polymerization using halogen and LED led to SBS values that were clinically suitable for orthodontic procedures.
The Effect of Ferritin, Vitamin D, and Some Hormonal and Biochemical Parameters on Patients with Female-pattern Hair Loss after COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Falih Israa Qusay
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

This study aims to shed light on the problem of female-pattern hair loss, especially for women, after recovering from the viral infection of COVID-19 and their deficiency of iron store level, Vitamin D, and some parameters that cause complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study included Sixty-eight females ranging from 20 to 30 years old; they were divided into two groups. Group I has 18 women as a control group; the women had recovered from COVID-19 infection and were not affected by viral complications. Group II of 50 women had recovered from infection with COVID-19 and suffered from hair loss. Levels of iron stores (ferritin), Vitamin D3, thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone hormone, triglycerides (TGs), and serum total cholesterol (TC) were measured after 2 months of infection recovery and compared with controls.

RESULTS:

The results of TG showed a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) between women in Group II compared to the control group (Group I). On the other hand, the data obtained from both Vitamin D3 and ferritin levels showed a significant decreases (P ≥ 0.001 in Group II compared to the control group (Group I). In contrast, there is no statistical significance recorded in hormonal parameters, except testosterone hormone, which witnessed a highly significant increase (P ≤ 0.01) of Group II, whereas for TC, there was no statistical significance. In addition, a high positivity was also observed (P < 0.01, P = 0.05) for ferritin, Vitamin D, testosterone, and TG level in the blood.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results showed a close co -relation between low levels of Vitamin D3, ferritin, high male hormones, and hair loss complications with COVID-19 viral infection. Both ingredients are consumed to protect the body from viruses. Vitamin D plays a major role in stimulating the body’s immunity to disease, so their concentration decreases after recovery from the disease and after the appearance of symptoms of the effects that have occurred because of this deficiency.
Investigating the Security of Health-care Information in Iranian Hospitals in Confronting with Threatening Risks
Authors: Hassanzad Maryam , Arian Mahdieh , Mollaei Roghayeh , Ansari Masoumeh , Khaledian Mehrdad , Valinejadi Ali , Velayati Ali Akbar
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Like other organizations, hospitals are at risk of information security threats. The implementation and use of various kinds of electronic health records and information systems challenge the privacy and security management of personal care as well as health-care organizations.

OBJECTIVE:

This survey aims to evaluate information security by focusing on the differences among hospitals based on their size and type.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted a survey, as a cross-sectional study, in 2023. The chief information officers of 165 hospitals in Iran were invited to participate. Furthermore, we designed an online questionnaire based on the ISO/IEC 27002. The scores of the hospitals were analyzed for significant differences in terms of seven factors of this questionnaire with respect to the size and type of hospitals.

RESULTS:

The 165 participating hospitals had a score of <55% of the maximum possible score (100%). The hospitals with more than 200 beds had the highest level of information security, and the lowest level of information security was far hospitals with 150–200 beds. In all studied hospitals, the highest score was related to the component “Backup and security zones,” and the lowest score was related to the component “Encryption and staging.” Even the analysis based on the number of beds did not change this result. Furthermore, the private and university hospitals were weaker than other hospitals in terms of “organization and risk management” and “protection against attacks.”

CONCLUSION:

All participating hospitals in this study in Iran had an average score. Therefore, due to the importance of confidentiality of information in the health-care system, it is essential to provide a secure platform for information retention in hospitals. The causes of these threats should also be identified and controlled before experiencing harmful effects. We thus suggest that managers of health-care information and information technology departments in hospitals take appropriate corrective measures in policy development, user training, access control, risk management, as well as physical standards and protection against attacks.
Oral Manifestations among Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients: Evidence from the Thar Desert Region of India
Authors: Joshi Nitin Kumar , Jain Yogesh Kumar , Suthar Praveen , Joshi Vibha , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Singh Kuldeep
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

The global pandemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been known to cause fever, cough, and difficulty in breathing. However, several case studies and case reports have also documented alteration of taste, dryness of mouth, and vesiculobullous lesion, but there is a scarcity of planned epidemiological studies to provide scientific evidence regarding such associations. Thus, this study was conducted to assess oral manifestations in symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a dedicated COVID facility of Jodhpur. Mild and moderate symptomatic laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 were included in the study. Data collection was done using the WHO Oral Health Self-Assessment Questionnaire for adults. Compiled data were analyzed using Chi-square statistics and odds ratio considering P < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results:

Out of 351 participants, 65.5% developed oral manifestations, with ageusia being the most common with 56.4% prevalence. Significant associations of the manifestations were observed with chronic systemic conditions and oral deleterious habits.

Conclusion:

The study provided epidemiological evidence regarding oral manifestations due to SARS-CoV-2 infection and their associations with chronic conditions and oral deleterious habits. Due to the continued resurgence of COVID-19, it is recommended that oral evaluation and management accompany the routine treatment in infected patients.
Determinants of Iron–Folic Acid Supplementation Compliance among Pregnant Women Attending Primary Health Center: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Akham Ngamba , Thounaojam Usha Devi
Published: December 2023

Background:

Intermittent iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) is advised in areas where the prevalence of anemia among pregnant women is 20% or higher. Effectiveness and successful interventions of national strategy will depend on compliance to IFAS. This study was conducted to determine the proportion of antenatal mothers compliant to IFAS and to identify the factors affecting it.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic was done from September 2020 to February 2021 at an Urban Primary Health Centre, Imphal East. Patient aged ≥18 years, completed 12 weeks of pregnancy and started IFAS were consecutively enrolled according to the outpatient department registration list and interviewed using a pretested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed for determining the association between selected variables, taking P < 0.05 for statistical significance. Ethical clearance was obtained from the institutional ethics committee.

Results:

Of 142 participated, 97 (68%) were compliant to IFAS. Women who were multigravida (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 0.14; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.038–0.48), self-purchased IFAS (AOR: 0.16; 95% CI: 0.054–0.47) were found less likely to be compliant to IFAS. Women of good knowledge score (AOR: 6.4; 95% CI: 1.7-23.8) regarding anemia and IFAS were more likely to be compliant.

Conclusion:

Almost one-third of participants was compliant to IFAS and associated with knowledge, educational level, and mode of obtaining IFAS. Thus, highlighting the need to scale up health awareness on IFAS and antenatal care coverage of antenatal IFAS supply through community-level workers.
Noncommunicable Diseases Healthcare-Specific Service Readiness at the Primary Health-care Centers in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Adeniran Adeyinka , Oluwole Esther O. , Chieme Chisom Florence , Ojo Omobola Yetunde , Ilesanmi Marcus M. , Olujobi Babatunde A. , Ogundimu Opeyemi , Durojaiye Temitope
Published: December 2023

Background:

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have been highlighted as a major challenge for sustainable development and an alarming public health challenge of global concern. This study was aimed at assessing the PHC facilities' readiness to provide NCDs management services in Ekiti state, Nigeria.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among PHCs in Ekiti state between August and October 2020 in 177 PHC facilities using some components of the World Health Organization's Service Availability and Readiness Assessment tool. Analysis was done using STATA SE 12. Statistical significance was set at a P < 0.05.

Results:

Majority (95%) of the primary health-care facilities were located in rural areas. Approximately 19% were in Ekiti North II and Ekiti Central II constituencies, and the majority (95%) were health centers. Only 29.4% offer management of NCDs. Among the spacers for inhalers available in 1.7% of the facilities, none were functioning and only 1.4% had equipment for NCD management and control, and 6% had trained staff and guidelines for NCD management. NCD-specific service readiness index was just 11% among the health care, facilities studied. Health-care facilities in the urban areas and the Ekiti North I had statistically significant higher NCD service readiness compared to the rural areas and the other federal constituencies, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The overall NCD-specific service readiness in Ekiti State was extremely low. The government should provide sufficient tools and equipment with trained workers that will offer adequate management of NCDs in the state.
The Rise and Fall of Public Health
Authors: Raina Sunil Kumar , Kumar Raman
Published: December 2023

Public health, as a discipline has been continuing to see a decline after witnessing a strong presence on the health landscape for the major part of 18th century. The fall, though unexpected has its roots in the growing acceptance for the individualized medicine as the medium of healthcare delivery.
Epidemiological Analysis of Adult Thyroid Cancer in Najran, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Assiri Abdullah Mufarreh , Alqannass Ali Mahdi , Alyami Saleh Yousef , Alalhareth Hamza Abdullah , Alhashel Salem Mohammed , Alsulayyi Turki Saeed , Hussein Hossam Adel
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims:

Thyroid cancer (TC) is the second most common neoplasm occurring in adult Saudi women. Therefore, this study aimed to discuss the demography, classification, and management of TC among adults in Najran, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study reviewed 88 patients with histopathologically identified TC at Najran King Khalid Hospital between January 2018 and September 2022. Descriptive data analysis was performed, focusing on the clinical and pathological information, treatment strategies, comorbidities, and demographics.

Results:

This study included 88 patients with TC. Female sex (81.8%), age 30–44 years (46.6%), and Saudi nationality (77.3%) were not significantly associated with the histopathological diagnosis (P = 0.064, P = 0.313, and P = 0.603, respectively). Comorbidities were identified in 52 patients (59.1%), with thyroid diseases being the most common (21.6%), followed by hypertension (16.1%). Total thyroidectomy showed statistically significant results in 63/71 papillary carcinoma patients (88.7%), and hemithyroidectomy was significant in 9/14 follicular carcinoma patients (64.3%) (P < 0.001). Statistically significant results were reported with no neck dissection in the papillary, follicular, and coexisting papillary and follicular TC cases (P = 0.046), while bilateral dissection showed significant results in the medullary carcinoma case (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Our study examined the demographic and clinicopathological data of TC between 2018 and 2022 in Najran. We found that Saudi nationals, women, and individuals aged 30–44 years comprised the majority of those affected. The most frequent type of TC was papillary carcinoma.