bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enquêter dans le noir : faire parler les armatures des crêtes de faîtage de Notre-Dame de Paris, vestiges de l’incendie du 15 avril 2019
Authors: Azéma Aurélia , Syvilay Delphine , L’Héritier Maxime
Published: March 2024

L’incendie du 15 avril 2019 a provoqué la disparition de la toiture de la cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. Telles sont les apparences depuis le sol, mais, en prenant un peu de hauteur, la réalité est tout autre. Les éléments décoratifs qui la composaient se sont principalement transformés sous l’effet de l’incendie, y ont perdu leurs cohérences, leurs fonctions originelles dans l’édifice, se retrouvant tous rassemblés en un amas confus de matières noires. De longs mois de tri selon une méthodologie adaptée, construite sur le modèle des fouilles archéologiques, ont permis de dresser un bilan quantitatif, mais aussi une estimation de l’état de conservation de ces vestiges. Que les débris soient in fine réemployés ou bien qu’ils servent de témoins patrimoniaux, ces travaux facilitent le travail de la maîtrise d’œuvre et de la maîtrise d’ouvrage en charge de la reconstruction, mais aussi les recherches relatives à l’histoire de la construction et des restaurations de la cathédrale.Parmi les milliers de clous, les centaines de tiges boulonnées ou encore l’ensemble des armatures de la charpente, les squelettes en fer qui armaient la coque en plomb des éléments de crête de faîtage ont fait l’objet d’une recherche approfondie. Une étude archivistique menée en parallèle d’une approche typologique et matérielle a rendu possible la reconstitution de ce véritable puzzle géant et complexe, compte tenu du caractère méconnaissable de certaines pièces. Cette enquête a permis de comprendre les différentes phases d’interventions sur ces objets ainsi que leur évolution technique au fil des décennies, depuis leur création au xixe siècle par l’architecte Viollet-le-Duc jusqu’aux stratégies de restauration adoptées aux xxe et xxie siècles (réemploi, modification, remplacement).
New gravitational model and quantization formula of the gravitational constant
Authors: Kang Ning bo
Published: March 2024

The existing theories of gravitation cannot solve the problem of the gravitational quantization, and the exact value of the Newtonian constant of gravitation G has not been determined. Therefore, the essence of gravity needs to be deeply explored. Here, we show that a new gravitational
model is proposed, which is of the viewpoint that the universe is a composition of elementary particles and gravitational lines, and the elementary particles are connected by gravitational lines, and the essence of gravity can be tension of the gravitational lines. Based on Newton's law of
gravitation, quantum mechanics, and simple harmonic wave equation, the dynamic model of gravitational driven photons is constructed:    G  m g
2   /   l p   = Δ
n ⋅  h c  / λ   . The quantization formula
of the gravitational constant is derived:    G q  =  K  h
3   /  2 π  c 2
m g 4     . The calculated average is G = 6.678 804 09 × 10−11 m3 kg−1 s−2.
Compared with the recommendations value of the CODATA in 2018, the deviation obtained is 0.067%. The quantum formula of gravity is derived:    f G  =
 K  h 3   /  2 π
c 2   m g 2     . The gravitational model
proposed in this paper solves the problem of gravitation quantization, deduces the formula of the gravitational constant and gravitational quantum, and provides a new theoretical method for deeply revealing the essence of gravity.
Observations of differences in electromagnetic velocity relative to anisotropy using a Lecher line and a standing electromagnetic wave
Authors: Steinhauer Rene
Published: March 2024

This paper describes an experiment designed to observe potential changes in electromagnetic propagation velocity. It has been widely demonstrated that if the frequency of an electromagnetic wave is fixed, then the associated wavelength is causally related to c. Furthermore, the
logical conclusion related to this known association (of frequency, wavelength, and light speed) is that, if the generated frequency during an experiment remains the same, and there is a velocity change in c, there would be causally related expansion or reduction in the associated wavelength.
With the use of a Lecher line and a standing electromagnetic wave, the experimenter can measure changes in wavelength by measuring electrical output at an assigned position on a Lecher line. Results of this experiment demonstrated an obvious and experimentally repeatable phase change associated
with rotation of the Lecher line. This phase change was demonstrated by a change in electrical output measured at the assigned location on the Lecher line. This experiment was repeated using various frequencies and voltage inputs into the Lecher line with obvious results that demonstrated
an anisotropic difference. Further experiments were completed attempting to find an alternative hypothesis for the phase change noted in the original experiment, but these experiments were unable to identify an alternative cause of the phase change and consequently support the hypothesis that
the phase change was directly related to anisotropy secondary to a change in the measured wavelength of the electromagnetic wave. Based upon the logical conclusions associated with this experiment and the results obtained, this experiment appears to demonstrate variable speed light. Furthermore,
this discovery brings into question the theory that electromagnetic propagation though space is at the constant of c.
Experiment on the reflection and emission of light
Authors: Filipescu Filip Dambi
Published: March 2024

Suppose the velocity of light is independent of the source velocity. In that case, the reflection of light as a mechanical phenomenon predicts a zero fringe shift when applied to the Michelson interferometer with a particular geometry, a
0.40 ×   10   − 4
 fringe shift when applied to the Michelson interferometer presented in the Michelson‐Morley experiment, and a   210   fringe shift when applied to the interferometer
presented in this study, which contradicts the zero fringe shift experimental result. If the velocity of light depends on the source velocity, the reflection of light as a mechanical phenomenon predicts a zero fringe shift for all three experiments. The study of emission, propagation, and
reflection of light as mechanical phenomena concludes that the optical phenomena are in an inertial frame as in the frame at absolute rest and cannot prove the motion of an inertial frame in which sources and mirrors belong to that inertial frame.
How Schwarzschild could have discovered and fixed the problem with his metric
Authors: Miller Lane R. , Silverberg Larry M. , Eischen Jeffrey W. , Miller Samuel R.
Published: March 2024

Karl Schwarzschild's landmark paper revealed the first ever exact solution to Einstein's gravitational field equation. This was a major scientific achievement. However, his solution for the metric of a spherically symmetric spacetime is different than the one found in textbooks today—because
Schwarzschild assumed, like in Newtonian gravity, that only one singularity could exist. Given the newness of Einstein's general theory of relativity and the existing paradigm of Newtonian gravity, his assumption was natural. While other authors have previously pointed out this shortcoming
and corrected it, the contribution of this paper is to show how Schwarzschild might have discovered it himself. A simple geometric proof indicates how Schwarzschild, with a different assignment of a single constant of integration, would have arrived at the metric found in textbooks today.
Uncommon Posterior Disc Displacement of Temporomandibular Joint - A Case Report
Authors: AlKandari Ahmad Gh. , Karkar Khalid Tarek
Published: March 2024

Rationale:

Posterior disc displacement (PDD) is an uncommon condition in which disc tissue is located between the posterior surface of the condyle and post-glenoid tubercle. The etiopathogenesis of this condition is idiopathic. There are different predisposing factors in the literature which are consistent with the presented case such as lack of anterior prominence of the disc, thinning of the posterior zone of the disc and perforation of the disc.

Patient Concerns:

We report an uncommon temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthropathy case of a 33-year-old female patient, who presented with long-standing TMJ pain associated with limited mouth opening.

Diagnosis:

The patient was diagnosed with non-reducible PDD of TMJ bilaterally.

Treatment:

Open surgery of TMJ (Discopexy) was the choice of treatment to release and mobilise discs.

Outcomes:

A noticeable increase in mouth opening without pain in TMJ area was achieved immediately after surgery and remained stable during periodic follow-ups.

Take-away Lessons:

The importance of magnetic resonance imaging as a diagnostic tool for arthropathy, to determine the proper management is essential. Moreover, the root of the helix inter tragus notch incision presents an advantage of open surgery of TMJ which results in immediate outcome with limited complications.
An Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-positive Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor with Rapidly Acquired Resistance to First-line Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase Inhibitor: A Case and Literature Review
Authors: Wu Shu-Cheng , Chen Hsing-Wu
Published: March 2024

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are soft-tissue neoplasms with rare metastatic potential. Approximately half of IMTs are positive for an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene rearrangement which causes aberrant expression. Early phase clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of ALK inhibitors in the treatment of IMTs. However, there is no definite conclusion on which ALK inhibitor performs best, and data regarding subsequent therapy after first-line ALK inhibitor failure are scarce. Here, we report a case of ALK+ metastatic IMT that demonstrated a dramatic response to first-line alectinib but resulted in rapidly acquired resistance. Repeated biopsy and next-generation sequencing (NGS) showed ALK:c.3604G>A; p.(Gly1202Arg), which is a common mechanism of drug resistance in ALK fusion-positive non-small cell lung cancer. We also report subsequent treatment choices and responses in this patient and perform a literature review regarding similar cases as this rare tumor.
David Slays Goliath: Exceptional Efficacy of Oral Vinorelbine in Conquering Metastatic Finger Angiosarcoma
Authors: Hsu Te-Lin , Chen San-Chi
Published: March 2024

Angiosarcoma (AS) is a rare and aggressive disease originating from blood or lymphatic vessel endothelium, representing <1% of soft-tissue sarcomas. The prognosis is generally poor, with a 5-year survival rate of only 30%–50%. The recurrence rate is high, and metastasis occurs in about half of the cases. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend anthracycline-based, gemcitabine-based, and paclitaxel regimens as preferred first-line treatments for metastatic AS. Vinorelbine, a vinca alkaloid, is listed as supportive care in AS for patients unsuitable for intensive chemotherapy or who are heavily treated. Although the efficacy of vinorelbine is modest, some studies suggest its synergistic effect with immunotherapy. In our case report, a patient with metastatic AS received frontline paclitaxel followed by pembrolizumab, but this treatment failed. However, a complete response (CR) was achieved after oral vinorelbine. Remarkably, the patient remains in CR for 4.5 years after discontinuing vinorelbine.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Exon 19 Deletion Subtypes Do Not Influence Survival Outcomes Following First-line Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Advanced Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Tang Yan-Jei , Chang John Wen-Cheng , Huang Chen-Yang , Fang Yueh-Fu , Chang Ching-Fu , Yang Cheng-Ta , Kuo Chih-Hsi Scott , Hsu Ping-Chih , Wu Chiao-En
Published: March 2024

Background:

Several deletion and insertion subtypes occur in exon 19 of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, collectively called exon 19 deletions (del19), and are one of the common EGFR mutations in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Previous studies have shown that del19 subtypes might influence the response to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), but their findings have been inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of del19 subtypes in an Asian population and provide additional evidence on this issue.

Materials and Methods:

NSCLC patients treated at Chang Gung Medical Hospitals between 2011 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Their clinicopathological characteristics, clinical tumor response, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were collected. PFS was evaluated among different del19 subtypes and EGFR-TKIs.

Results:

This study included 164 patients with NSCLC carrying an EGFR del19 mutation who had detailed information about their del19 subtype and were treated with frontline EGFR-TKIs (39 with afatinib and 125 with gefitinib/erlotinib). In this cohort, del19 subtypes did not influence PFS and OS based on different classifications, including start codon of deletion, the number of deleted nucleotides, or pure deletion versus mixed deletion/insertion/substitution. In addition, afatinib generally showed better PFS than gefitinib/erlotinib, particularly and significantly for patients with the p. E746_A750 mutation, a common 15 nucleotide deletion, or a pure deletion without insertion/substitution.

Conclusion:

In this study, del19 subtypes did not influence PFS and OS with EGFR-TKIs. Afatinib showed better activity than first-generation TKIs and should be preferred for patients with del19 mutations.
A rare case of extraosseous Ewing’s sarcoma
Authors: Rana Sandeep , Choudhary Robin , Kirti M. , Mulajkar Deepak , Shivani S.
Published: March 2024

Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) is a rare and highly aggressive tumour of neuroectodermal origin. Primary pulmonary ES is extremely rare and difficult to distinguish from other lung tumours due to its similar presentation and nonspecific symptoms. It requires a deliberate interplay of imaging, histopathological exam, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and genetic analysis to confirm the diagnosis. Here we present a rare case of extra osseus ES.
Post-COVID-19 pulmonary fibrosis with prognostic risk factors: A study in the hilly state of North India
Authors: Thakur Shruti , Jhobta Anupam , Kalyani Sai , Sharma Sunil , Thakur Charu S.
Published: March 2024

Context: Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2). As it is a novel coronavirus infection, its acute as well as long-term pulmonary alterations in terms of radiological imaging and pathology need to be explored. Aim: To analyze the risk factors associated with the development of pulmonary fibrosis in post-COVID-19 patients. Settings and Design: A retrospective study in a tertiary center in a hilly state of North India. Methods and Material: A retrospective study was carried out in a hilly state of North India during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A baseline computed tomography (CT) within 1 month and a follow-up CT within 3–6 months of the onset of patients’ symptoms was done. The patients were assigned two groups based on the presence of fibrosis [reticular pattern (inter/intralobular septal thickening), parenchymal bands, bronchiectasis, and/ or honeycombing] on follow-up CT. The patients’ demographic profiles, clinical records, blood laboratory findings, treatment given, baseline CT, and follow-up CT findings were compared between the fibrosis and non-fibrosis groups. Statistical analysis used: The data entry was done in the Microsoft EXCEL spreadsheet, and the final analysis was done with the use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software, IBM manufacturer, Chicago, USA, ver 25.0. Results: Of the total 72 patients, two had no abnormality on baseline CT. Forty (57.14%) out of 70 patients already had fibrosis on baseline CT, which increased to involve 47 (67.14%) patients on follow-up CT. It was analyzed that old age, smoking, comorbid status, low SpO2, longer hospitalization, lymphopenia, and increased severity of COVID-19 disease were independent risk factors for the development of pulmonary fibrosis in post-COVID-19 pneumonia. Conclusions: A better understanding of the underlying mechanism and pathogenesis can help in filling up of gaps in risk stratification of COVID-19.
Assessment of the value of 6-min walk test to predict the severity of interstitial lung disease among Indian patients
Authors: Sompalli Anantha Krishna , Kailasa Sateesh Rao , Pulugundla Varun , Kotha Naveen Chandra Reddy , Sharma Pawan Kumar , Velisela Gopala Krishnaiah , Ansari Mohammed Soheb Sadath
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The prevalence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) is increasing. High-resolution computerized tomography (HRCT), despite having limitations, remains the choice of method for diagnosis and assessment of severity of ILD. Objective: To determine the efficacy of 6-min walk test to assess the severity of the ILD compared to HRCT. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was done among 40 patients with ILD in a tertiary hospital in Hyderabad. The data included age, gender, smoking, HRCT, 6-min walk test, spirometry, diffusion lung capacity and medical history. Mann–Whitney U test, Kruskal–Wallis test, and ROC curve were used to determine the outcomes. Results: The mean age of participants was 57.18 + 13.01 years. 62.5% never smoked. Overall, 50% had severe ILD, and the rest had mild to moderate. The distance walked per 6-min, SpO2 before and SpO2 after, was significantly lower (p = 0.001; 0.002; <0.001, respectively) among patients with severe ILD than mild or moderate. The sensitivity and 1-specificity of the distance walked in 6-min to detect the severity of ILD was 0.90 and 0.31, respectively; sensitivity and 1-specificity of SpO2 before the test was 0.81 and 0.34, while that of SpO2 after the test was 0.90 and 0.17, respectively. Conclusion: This study found that the 6-min walk test is highly sensitive and specific for predicting the severity of ILD among patients. All three components of the 6-min walk test: distance, oxygen saturation before, and oxygen saturation after the test significantly lowered and were independent predictors of severe ILD.
Carcinoid tumorlet/typical carcinoid of the lung: An incidental bronchoscopic finding and cytological dilemma
Authors: Pandey Ankit , Bargunam Priyadharshini , Saini Mukul , Kundu Snehashish , Sharma Manish
Published: March 2024

Carcinoid tumors of the lung are low-grade neuroendocrine tumors with the potential to progress to high-grade tumors. Diagnosing a typical carcinoid of the lung/tumorlet is a tough nut to crack, especially in their early stages when there is no well-defined lesion in the imaging. Besides, differentiating a carcinoid from low-grade adenocarcinomas of the lung cytologically is quite challenging due to their similar morphology. We report a case of typical carcinoid of lung/tumorlet in a 42-year-old male who presented with hemoptysis. Flexible fibreoptic bronchoscopy revealed a bump in the right middle bronchus. Bronchial biopsy showed a cellular smear with a monotonous round to oval bland-looking cells distributed in singles and in acini, having a high nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio, scant cytoplasm, regular round nuclei, and inconspicuous nucleoli. No atypical mitotic figures or necrosis were seen. With these features, a cytological diagnosis of a typical carcinoid was made. Biopsy was not attempted again due to the small size of the lesion and inaccessibility. Serum chromogranin levels were elevated, confirming the diagnosis. The PET scan was unremarkable. The patient was referred to medical oncology for further management. This report will create awareness about diagnosing early carcinoid/tumorlet, especially with the increasing use of bronchoscopy and cytological diagnostic caution of overdiagnosis of malignancy.
A radiolucent cystic lesion in a chest radiograph of a breathless child − a case report
Authors: Sharma Neeraj , Kumar Kunal , Chaudhary Robin , Pathania Amit
Published: March 2024

A radiolucent cystic lesion is a common finding on chest radiographs of children presenting with acute breathlessness, and congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) is a relatively uncommon cause of it. The majority of children with CPAM present with respiratory distress of varying severity in the neonatal period. Here, we discuss the case of an 18-month-old child who had a recent history of worsening breathlessness, and on thorough evaluation, he was diagnosed as having CPAM (type 1 variant). Inadvertent chest tube insertions should be avoided in these cases, as it can worsen the underlying condition. A computerized tomography (CT) chest scan plays a key role in diagnosing and assessing the therapeutic intervention in these cases. Surgical resection of the lesion is curative and has an excellent prognosis in the majority of cases of type 1 CPAM.
The Clinical and Microbiological Characteristics of Fungal Keratitis in COVID-19 Period
Authors: Sankolli Nikhita Anil , Biradar Sunil Gurupadappa , Shahapur Praveen , Israel Mervin Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Context:

In India, the incidence of fungal keratitis ranges from 44% to 47%, due to its tropical environment and huge at-risk agricultural population. The emergence of COVID-19 has influenced the medical management of fungal keratitis.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical and microbiological characteristics of fungal corneal ulcers during COVID-19 period.

Settings and Design:

This was a cross-sectional study of 1-year duration.

Subjects and Methods:

Fifty-two KOH mount-positive and fungal culture-positive patients were included in the study. Ophthalmic examination, including best-corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, fluorescent staining was done, Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (ASOCT). Corneal scraping was sent for 10% KOH mount and fungal cultures with Sabouraud’s dextrose agar for growth.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (Version 20) was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

Fifty-two KOH mount and fungal culture-positive patients were included, with a mean age of 50.88 years. 53.8% were farmers. 55.6% had a history of trauma with organic matter. The common signs noted were an irregular, dry looking, central corneal ulcer measuring 2-5mm extending 20-50% deep, mid stromal infiltration, satellite lesions and surrounding stromal oedema. Eleven presented with perforation. The best-corrected visual acuity was hand movements (32.7%). The KOH mount positive among the screened patients was 46.7%, of which 52 were culture positive. Aspergillus fumigatus (61.5%) was the predominant cause of mycotic keratitis.

Conclusion:

Mycotic keratitis was mostly caused by filamentous fungus and was most frequently observed among farmers. COVID-19 has increased the cases of perforated corneal ulcers, and ASOCT was the noninvasive, feasible tool to assess the cornea.
Diabetic Distress in Adults with Type II Diabetic Mellitus: A Community Based Study
Authors: Todalabagi Pooja , Manjula R. , Anjali  , Yadavannavar Mallikarjun
Published: March 2024

Background:

Diabetes is a challenging disease that is considered to be hard to live with as it encompasses a lot of restrictive instructions. Diabetic distress (DD) refers to an emotional state where people experience feelings such as stress, guilt, or denial that arise from the living with diabetes and the burden of self-management. This study was done to assess the DD in rural and urban area of north Karnataka.

Methodology:

A nonrandomized educational interventional study (before and after comparative study without control) with 129 urban and 63 rural study participants was conducted in urban and rural field practice area of S. Nijalingappa Medical College, Bagalkot. Data were collected using pretested and predesigned pro forma which included sociodemographic details and DD score scale. Health education intervention was followed by postintervention data collection.

Results:

Most of the participants were in their old age. Male predominance was seen. Most of the participants belonged to Hindu religion (57% in rural and 69% in urban) and illiterate (46.5% in rural and 41.3% in urban). There was a significant reduction in DD (mean difference = 0.7, standard deviation = 0.7), when the study participants were given educational intervention.

Conclusion:

To combat the stress associated with diabetes, it is important to educate the patient to adapt with change in their lifestyle following the diagnosis of diabetes.
Health Status of Cotton-ginning Workers in Central India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Rathod Sangharsh S. , Kasdekar Pankaj M. , Bramhankar Tanuja R. , Dhakate Manish Arun , Khakse Gautam Marotrao
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Cotton ginning is an important industry in Central India, employing a significant number of workers. The cotton-ginning industry is associated with various occupational health hazards, including exposure to cotton dust, which can lead to respiratory problems such as byssinosis. In addition, cotton-ginning workers are also exposed to workplace stress, which can have negative impacts on their physical and mental health.

Aims:

The aim of this cross-sectional study is to assess the health status of cotton-ginning workers in Central India.

Methodology:

A total of 285 cotton-ginning workers from various factories in Central India were recruited for this study. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, occupational characteristics, presence of byssinosis, and workplace stress were collected through a structured questionnaire. The Roach and Schilling criteria for byssinosis were used to assess the presence of this byssinosis. Workplace stress was assessed using the Workplace Stress Scale, which is a validated tool for assessing stress in occupational settings. Data were analyzed using R software 4.2.2.

Results:

The majority of cotton-ginning workers were female (71.2%) and had a primary level of education (51.3%). Most workers (77.54%) had been employed in the industry for 1–5 years, and the majority of workers (55.8%) worked as helpers. Only 4.21% of workers reported having byssinosis. The majority of workers (63.51%) reported lower levels of workplace stress, while a small proportion (3.16%) reported severe levels of workplace stress.

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that the health status of cotton-ginning workers in Central India is relatively good. However, there is a need to implement appropriate occupational health and safety measures which are inclusive of all workers, not just machine operators.
Impact of Online Teaching on Dental Students in COVID Era
Authors: Gawande Madhuri , Pakhale Aayushi , Hande Alka , Patil Swati , Sonone Archana , Khan Samiha
Published: March 2024

Aim and Objectives:

Education is requisite for humankind. In the COVID pandemic, as humanity was endangered, education was devalued. Neglecting education for a long period would have caused a great loss of students. Hence, the online teaching approach was initiated to maintain continuity in education. In the present study, the impact of online teaching was studied on dental students during the COVID pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

Students of Bachelor of Dental Surgery of all four academic years were evaluated by their annual attendance and their summative examination results (in percentage) during online teaching.

Conclusion:

We concluded that the attendance and results of students could be correlated during online teaching. Online teaching was an effective substitute during the COVID pandemic.
Impact of Self-reported Leisure Internet Usage on Social Interactions
Authors: Doshi Dolar , Sukhabogi Jagadeeswara Rao , Kumari V.B.P. Surya , Reddy Y. Pallavi
Published: March 2024

Aim:

This study aimed to determine whether leisure Internet usage affects social interactions among undergraduate dental students.

Methods:

All undergraduate dental students of Government Dental College and Hospital, Hyderabad, were included in the study. Leisure Internet usage was assessed using a fifteen-item Internet Disorder scale (IDS-15). Short form of the Social Interaction Anxiety (SIAS-6) and Social Phobia Scale (SPS-6) evaluated Social interaction anxiety and social phobia. The frequency distribution of responses IDS-15, SIAS-6, and SPS-6 was calculated based on gender and year of study. The mean response score was computed and compared based on demographic variables.

Results:

The total mean IDS-15 score for the study population was 39.09 ± 8.35. Average time spent on Internet per day was a significant variable for IDS-15 and its factors, with the highest mean score observed for those using Internet for more than 5 h/day. Although half of the population (165; 50%) revealed Internet addiction based on the IDS-15 scale, the majority of the population had low levels of social interaction anxiety (60.3%) and social phobia (69.39%). A positive and significant relation was noted between the total IDS-15 scale with both the social scales.

Conclusion:

Based on the analysis of this study, it was seen that 50% of the population had self-reported leisure Internet addiction. The amount of time spent emerged as a significant factor and a positive relation between the Internet usage and anxiety and phobia in social situations was also noted in this study.
Incidence of ABO Blood Groups in Patients with Oral Cancer, Premalignant Conditions, and Lesions: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Pokala Archana , Valishetty Anuhya , Devulapally Revath Vyas , Tejasvi ML Avinash , Nadendla Lakshmi Kavitha , Mekala Mounika Reddy
Published: March 2024

Aim of the Study:

The aim was to assess the incidence and to correlate ABO blood groups in patients with oral cancer, premalignant conditions, and lesions.

Materials and Methods:

It is a prospective observational study. ABO blood grouping was done on 120 cases, of which 60 were with oral cancer, 20 with oral submucous fibrosis, 20 with leukoplakia, and 20 with lichen planus. About 120 healthy subjects were selected after randomization. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results:

Out of 120 precancerous and cancerous cases, 26 had blood group A (21.6%), 46 had blood group B (38.3%), 5 had blood group AB (4.2%), and 43 had blood group O (35.83%). Among the controls, out of 120 subjects, 24 had blood group A (20%), 40 had blood group B (33.33%), 5 had blood group AB (4.2%), and 51 had blood group O (42.5%). The strength of association between was assessed using the odd’s ratio and found that people with blood group B had 1.24 times higher risk of developing oral precancerous and cancerous lesions compared to people of other blood groups. The relative risk was 1.11 for people with blood group A and 1 for those with blood group AB. The relative risk for people with blood group O was 0.75.

Conclusions:

In the present study, it was found that people with blood group B are at a greater risk of developing oral malignancies, followed by those with blood group A, AB, and O.
Pharmacognostical (Ingredient Analysis) and Pharmaceutical Evaluation of Yashtimadhu Taila (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.)
Authors: Kumbhani Rajeshree Bhagvanjibhai , Dudhamal T. S. , Shukla V. J. , Harisha C. R.
Published: March 2024

Context:

In Ayurveda, Yashtimadhu is being used as one of the healing drugs in the management of different kinds of wounds. The preparations made from Yashtimadhu such as Churna, Ghrita, Taila, and Malahar are being practiced in wound care unit to treat different kinds of wounds as local application. Multiple treatment modalities are mentioned in Sushruta Samhita for the management of various types of Vrana.

Aim and Objective:

This study was to standardize the finished product Yashtimadhu Taila to confirm its identity, quality, and purity. Yashtimadhu Taila is standardized using different parameters like pharmacognostical study including organoleptic characters such as color, odor, and taste.

Subjects and Methods:

Yashtimadhu Taila is prepared as per Sneh Kalpana mentioned in Sharangdhara Samhita. The pharmacognostical study includes organoleptic characters such as color, odor, and taste. The pharmaceutical study of Yashtimadhu Taila includes specific gravity, acid value, saponification, iodine value, and refractive index by the following standard procedures as per the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, and chromatographic examination includes high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) study.

Results:

All the physicochemical parameters show acid value (0.4883), saponification (178.7), iodine value (82.91), and refractive index (1.4820). HPTLC profile of the methanolic extract of the drug showed 14 spots at 254 nm and 8 spots at 366 nm.

Conclusions:

This study will be helpful to establish the safety profile, efficacy, and acceptance of classical parameters for further research studies.
Dietary Pattern, Physical, and Behavioral Trends in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Acharya Ashwitha , Shetty Shilpa S. , Shetty Prasanna Kumar , Kumari N. Suchetha
Published: March 2024

Context:

Dietary intake and physical activity play a significant role in improving health parameters such as enhancing mood, strengthening visceral organ functions, and reducing the progression of chronic diseases. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine and metabolic condition that concerns women of reproductive age presenting hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology.

Aims:

This study aimed to assess the quality of life and dietary patterns in women with and without PCOS, which may assist in identifying the possible factors linked to PCOS.

Settings and Design:

The cross-sectional study was conducted Central Research Laboratory, K. S. Hegde Medical Academy, KSHEMA-IVF Unit and Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Justice K. S. Hegde Charitable Hospital, Mangalore.

Methods:

With the sample size of 45 (23 women with PCOS diagnosed based on Rotterdam criteria and 20 women as healthy control aged between 18 and 40 years), we investigated the sociodemographic dietary intake, quality of life, sleep, and physical activity using a semi-validated questionnaire.

Statistical Analysis:

Obtained data were analyzed using Student’s t-test and Mann–Whitney U-test with P < 0.05.

Results:

The results indicate that total energy, carbohydrate, protein, and total dietary fiber, including soluble dietary fiber intake, was significantly lower in women with PCOS than the healthy group. No clear relation was identified between lifestyle and PCOS indices.

Conclusions:

The present study suggests dietary intake and associated nutrient patterns may indeed play an imperative role in the management of PCOS symptoms, but physical activity and quality of life may need further investigation.
Immunohistochemical Observation and Correlation of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Downstream Signaling Proteins with Plasma Medium-Chain Fatty Acids Levels in Breast Cancer
Authors: Roopashree P. G. , Shetty Shilpa S. , Shetty Vijith Vittal , Suhasini P. C. , Shetty Praveen Kumar , Kumari N. Suchetha
Published: March 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to correlate the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) downstream signaling molecules with plasma medium-chain fatty acids in breast cancer (BC).

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and sixteen plasma samples were collected from BC and control subjects. mRNA was extracted and gene expression of mRNA was analyzed by reverse transcriptase-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Plasma levels of phosphorylated EGFR (p-EGFR), p-Akt, and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR) were measured using an ELISA kit. Thirty BC tissue sections were used to analyze the expression of EGFR/p-EGFR, Akt/p-Akt, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)/p-mTOR by immunohistochemistry.

Results:

The relative mRNA expression levels of EGFR, Akt, and mTOR were high in BC compared to the control subjects, whereas plasma levels of phosphorylated EGFR downstream signaling molecules were upregulated in BC patients, which was statistically significant. The expression of p-EGFR was high in both the cytoplasm and the nuclei, and also, the higher the expression of the downstream molecules in BC tissue sections.

Conclusion:

In the present investigation, there was a noteworthy inverse relationship between plasma levels of caprylic and lauric acid and the expression of EGFR downstream signaling molecules in BC. These findings suggest that EGFR signaling in BC may be efficiently repressed by increasing the amount of caprylic and lauric acid supplements taken through diet.
Is there an association between head and neck cancer diagnosis and self-reported dental fear? A dual-center cross-sectional study
Authors: Maeda Claudia Y. , Serrano Rafael V. , Campos Luana , Palma Luiz F. , Marcucci Marcelo
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

Mental distress is highly reported in cancer patients, resulting in anxiety and depression most of the time. Both conditions, in turn, are recognized to be related to dental fear in adults; however, there are no studies on patients suffering from head and neck cancer. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate whether newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer are more prone to self-reported dental fear.

Material and Methods:

This dual-center cross-sectional study was conducted with 25 healthy outpatients and 25 patients with a recent diagnosis of head and neck cancer, all requiring dental care. The patients were informed at the first appointment about their dental therapy planning and the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Dental Fear Survey (DFS) questionnaire was then applied after appropriate instructions.

Results:

The DFS total scores did not differ statistically between the groups (Mann–Whitney U test, P = 0,120) but the Cancer Group presented a slightly higher mean score (32.2 ± 10.0) than the Control Group (30.0 ± 14.2).

Conclusion:

Within the limitations of this study, newly diagnosed patients with head and neck cancer and healthy individuals seem to experience similar self-reported dental fear.
Evaluation of the non-endoscopic and endoscopic-assisted platysma flap – A randomized control trial
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Pal Uma Shanker , Mohammad Shadab , Singh Vibha , Kumar Vijay , Agrawal Amiya , Singh Aastha
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim:

As oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic progressive disorder, the treatment is based on the severity of the disease. Surgical treatment is the only choice for grade III and grade IV OSMF cases because the patient can neither clean his/her mouth nor properly chew. The resulting soft tissue defect requires resurfacing with various well-vascularized tissues such as extraoral flaps, intraoral flaps, microvascular flaps, and allografts that have been used. Reconstruction of the resultant defects proved to be challenging. Till date, none of the flaps has been proven to be effective and is universally accepted for the treatment of OSMF because of various drawbacks of the available techniques. This study was conducted to know whether an endoscopic-assisted platysma flap is associated with better outcomes in terms of ease of operation and postoperative function than the conventional approach.

Materials and Methods:

This study included 40 patients of grade III and grade IV OSMF reporting to the outpatient department of oral and maxillofacial surgery in a tertiary center of North India. These patients were divided randomly into two groups. Group I and Group II had 20 patients each, undergoing endoscopic-assisted platysma flap and non–endoscopic-assisted platysma flap for reconstruction after resection of OSMF bands, respectively. Data were analyzed for the mouth opening, operating time, flap viability, congestion of neck and oral cavity, signs of inflammation, neurologic assessment, and measurement of the drain.

Results:

The results showed significant increase in mouth opening from the preoperative value to the values immediately after surgery and at 24 h, 1 week, 15 days, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery in both the study groups. Reduced bleeding incidence was found in group I compared to group II, with better postoperative outcomes noted during follow-up. But the mean intraoperative time of the subjects in group I was 130.80 ± 5.5.908 min and in group II was 105.74 ± 2. 491 min. Increased time taken in group I may be due to the long learning curve.

Conclusion:

The present study concluded that the Endoscope-assisted technique has a key role during supra and subplatysmal dissection to allow for better accessibility, handling, and visibility of the flap and its orientation in relation to the underlying structures to avoid postoperative complications and to overcome the drawback of platysma myocutaneous flap in reconstruction of OSMF defects.
Interim management of Pierre Robin sequence using a custom-made face mask
Authors: Kulkarni Vishal , Senthil Kumar C , Rath Mukti K. , Singh Madhu
Published: March 2024

Pierre Robin sequence poses a great challenge for anesthesiologists during laryngoscopy and intubation, making oxygenation and ventilation difficult. The role of early surgical intervention is recommended for the improvement of the airway and overall survival of the neonate. The situation becomes even more challenging, when the neonate may not be fit for such surgical interventions. The present case posed such a challenge to the team. To the authors’ knowledge, the decision to use a face mask as an interim life-saving measure was considered for the first time. This provided a greater window of opportunity for further course of action, only to be later managed by distraction osteogenesis of the mandible. The unconventional use of orthopedic appliances for the management of threatened airways may provide the clinician with time, where further management may be carried out. The present article will explain such a procedure that was carried out as a life-saving measure.
Effects of nasal desmopressin spray versus topical epinephrine on surgical field clarity and hemodynamics in endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy: a randomized clinical study
Authors: El Sayed Mohamed G.M. , Medhat Marwa M. , Salem Dina A.E. , Khedr Marwa A.M. , Kamel Alshaimaa A.F.
Published: March 2024

Background

A bloodless surgical field coupled with stable hemodynamics is pivotal for successful surgical intervention, especially in endonasal surgeries. This study investigates the effect of intranasal desmopressin spray in reducing surgical bleeding and on hemodynamics compared with topical epinephrine in patients scheduled for endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).

Methods

Fifty-two patients were randomly allocated into two groups in this double-blind clinical study: Desmopressin group (n=26): patients received two puffs of desmopressin acetate 10 μg/puff in the side of the nasal cavity ipsilateral to the obstructed lacrimal duct (20 µg totally) 60 min before the surgery. Epinephrine group (n=26): patients received topical 1 : 100 000 epinephrine in the nasal cavity ipsilateral to the obstructed lacrimal duct via 3 soaked packs placed in the middle meatus for 5 min after induction of general anesthesia and before the start of surgery.

Results

The median clarity of the surgical field based on the BOEZAART grading system was significantly clearer in the desmopressin group compared with epinephrine group. The duration of surgery was significantly shorter in the desmopressin group (66.92±5.04 min) compared with epinephrine group (71.73±5.45 min). Mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR) were statistically significant higher in epinephrine group compared to the desmopressin group at 2 and 5 min after topical epinephrine compared with desmopressin group.

Conclusion

Pre-emptive 20 ug single dose of intranasal desmopressin provides a clear surgical field with no hemodynamics effects compared with topical epinephrine in patients undergoing endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy. Clinicaltrial.gov (ref: NCT05507476, date of registration: 18-8–2022).
The role of dermoscopy in the diagnosis of nail affection of psoriasis and lichen planus
Authors: Kamel Yara M. , Ali Moshira M. , El-Sebaei Hoda K.
Published: March 2024

Background

Nail disorders comprise ∼10% of all dermatological conditions. Because diagnosis is not always possible by clinical means alone, additional diagnostic procedures may be required at times. Dermoscopy of nails (onychoscopy) has shown promising results in diagnosing various nail disorders.

Aim

To study the dermoscopic nail findings in psoriasis and lichen planus.

Patients and methods

A total of 80 patients with clinically evident psoriasis and lichen planus of nail were included in this study. They were classified into two groups: group 1 included 40 patients with nail psoriasis and group 2 included 40 patients with nail lichen planus. All patients were examined clinically and by dermoscope for criteria of psoriasis and lichen planus of the nails.

Results

In psoriatic patients, pitting is the commonest finding observed clinically and by dermoscope. Splinter hemorrhage, pitting, leukonychia, longitudinal ridging, oil drop sign, and onycholysis are better visualized by dermoscopy, and dilated hyponychial capillaries are detected only by dermoscopy. In patients of lichen planus, longitudinal ridging is the commonest finding observed clinically and by dermoscopy. Longitudinal ridging, pitting, chromonychia, and splinter hemorrhage are better seen by dermoscopy. Linear dyschromic bands are not detected clinically.

Conclusion

Onychoscopy can provide valuable diagnostic information in cases of nail psoriasis and nail lichen planus.
A non-Hopfian relatively hyperbolic group with respect to a Hopfian subgroup
Authors: Kim Jan , Lee Donghi
Published: March 2024

We produce an example demonstrating that every finitely generated relatively hyperbolic group with respect to a collection of Hopfian subgroups need not be Hopfian. This answers a question of Osin (2006) in the negative.
Resolvent bounds for Lipschitz potentials in dimension two and higher with singularities at the origin
Authors: Obovu Donnell
Published: March 2024

We consider, for

h,E>0

, the semiclassical Schrödinger operator

-h^{2}\Delta + V - E

in dimension two and higher. The potential

V

and its radial derivative

\partial_{r}V

are bounded away from the origin, have long-range decay and

V

is bounded by

r^{-\delta}

near the origin while

\partial_{r}V

is bounded by

r^{-1-\delta}

, where

0\leq\delta < 4(\sqrt{2}-1)

. In this setting, we show that the resolvent bound is exponential in

h^{-1}

, while the exterior resolvent bound is linear in

h^{-1}

.
Murasugi sum and extremal knot Floer homology
Authors: Cheng Zhechi , Hedden Matthew , Sarkar Sucharit
Published: March 2024

The aim of this paper is to study the behavior of knot Floer homology under Murasugi sum. We establish a graded version of Ni’s isomorphism between the extremal knot Floer homology of Murasugi sum of two links and the tensor product of the extremal knot Floer homology groups of the two summands. We further prove that

\tau=g

for each summand if and only if

\tau=g

holds for the Murasugi sum (with

\tau

and

g

defined appropriately for multi-component links). Some applications are presented.