bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fournier's Gangrene
Authors: Gul MO , Sunamak O , Kina U , Gunay E , Akyuz C
Published: August 2023

Background:

Fournier's Gangrene (FG) is the necrotizing fasciitis of the perineal region.

Aims:

To compare the effectiveness of debridement alone and debridement with vacuum-assisted closure in the treatment of Fournier's gangrene.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients operated for FG were analyzed retrospectively. Debridement-only and debridement + VAC treatment groups were compared in terms of age, gender, predisposing factors, comorbid diseases, intensive care unit and hospital stay durations, laboratory results, septic shock, treatment methods, Fournier' gangrene severity index (FGSI) and mortality.

Results:

The M/F ratio was 13/9. There were 10 and 12 patients in debridement-only and debridement + VAC groups, respectively. Ten patients (45.5%) were admitted to intensive care unit, 8 (36.4%) needed colostomy and 7 (31.9%) developed septic shock, respectively. The mortality rate was 27.3%. There was no significant difference in terms of age, gender, laboratory parameters, number of debridement, length of stay in intensive care unit and hospital, shock duration, and mortality (P > 0.05). The FGSI scores also did not show any difference between the groups which showed that the severity of the disease in both groups are similar.

Conclusion:

The VAC treatment was found not to provide a statistically significant benefit on mortality. Early and adequate debridement and antibiotic are still the most important factors in the treatment of FG and to reduce mortality.
The Impact of Demographic Factors on Quality of Life in Women after Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Pačarić S , Turk T , Orkić Ž , Farčić N , Erić I , Nemčić A
Published: August 2023

Background:

Health is the main focus of studies on quality of life. Cancer can lead to changes in quality of life in postmastectomy women.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to examine the relation among sociodemographic factors and to assess the quality of life of women with breast cancer a year from their surgery.

Materials and Methods:

This single-center cross-sectional study included 104 participants (50 participants with mastectomy and 54 participants with quadrantectomy) aged from 37 to 72 years. The 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) was used to assess physical, psychological, and social functioning of participants, as well as their sociodemographic factors and the clinical variables of the treatment.

Results:

Participants with quadrantectomy aged up to 50 years had a significantly higher score when assessed in social functioning and mental/emotional health. Older participants expressed no significant differences in quality of life. Participants with quadrantectomy in all age groups had a higher score in social functioning, mental/emotional health, energy, and vitality than participants with mastectomy.

Conclusion:

A year from the surgery and cancer treatment, the quality of life of postquadrantectomy women was better compared to postmastectomy women.
Evaluation of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Awareness of Patients Undergoing Dental Interventions in Turkey
Authors: Yilmaz B , Somay E
Published: August 2023

Aims:

We aimed to objectively assess the COVID-19 awareness of the patients requiring dental interventions in our dental clinic by utilizing a newly generated questionnaire, which may serve helpfully in the hard battle against the pandemic in our country.

Materials and Methods:

This study included 306 volunteer adults who applied to our dental clinic for dental interventions during the early days of COVID-19 outbreak in Turkey. All patients responded to a newly created questionnaire composed of four sections with 19 questions those mostly assessing the social and demographic details; like the participant's age, gender, marital status, education status, medical history, basic dental hygiene habits, occupation, and general information about the COVID-19 infection and its protection methods.

Results:

The outcomes of 306 participants revealed that their gender, age, and education status showed significant distinctions about the dissemination of coronavirus via dental interventions. Higher education status was linked to a loftier level of social awareness about the COVID-19 infection and its potential associations with dental interventions. It was observed that the participants were unsatisfactorily cautious against the COVID-19 infection and its dissemination pathways in their social environment, particularly in the specific case of systematic diseases and preventive measures. The primary way of obtaining information about the COVID-19 infection was the electronic websites.

Conclusion:

Deplorably, accentuating the urgent need for further intensive training programs on the relationship between the systemic diseases and COVID-19 infection, and explicit daily care methods in the social environment.
Apical Fenestration in Endodontically Treated Teeth
Authors: Alroomy R
Published: August 2023

Root canal therapy in teeth with root fenestrations can present with pain on apical palpation or persistent pain. The signs and symptoms of root fenestration in the absence of mucosal fenestration may be misleading, which may be misdiagnosed as non-odontogenic pain. Although CBCT is superior to periapical radiographs for the diagnosis of root fenestration, it failed to detect the intact cortical plate in the middle third in our cases. Therefore, the type was different in CBCT from its actual size surgically. Repeated non-surgical root canal treatment would not alleviate pain in the presence of root fenestration and may lead to apical root fracture. Root-resection relieves pain, unless the fenestration is accompanied by fracture. The aim of these two case reports was to describe the diagnosis and treatment of endodontically treated teeth with a persistent pain. Also, the difference of root fenestration type between CBCT and its actual size was described.
Comparability of Serum Creatinine-Based Glomerular Filtration Rate Equations in West African Adult Communities
Authors: Akpan EE , Ekrikpo UE , Udo AIA , Umoh VA , Nkanta AS
Published: August 2023

Background:

The clinical diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using serum creatinine-based equations. Many formulas are used in estimating GFR.

Objectives:

We set out to determine the degree of agreement between the Cockcroft-Gault (CG), 4-variable Modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD). Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations in our indigenous population.

Patients and Methods:

Adult participants were recruited across all sectors of life, education, and occupation. Blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, lipid profile, urinalysis, serum creatinine, and anthropometry were measured. Estimated GFR (eGFR) was computed using CG, MDRD, and CKD-EPI equations with and without the race factor. The Lin's concordance index (rho_c) and Bland–Altman analysis were used to determine the degree of agreement between various pairs of creatinine-based eGFR equations [MDRD with the race factor (MDRDw)]; MDRD without the race factor (MDRD); CKD-EPI with race factor (CKD-EPIw); CKD-EPI without the race factor (CKD-EPI), and the CG equation.

Results:

Two hundred and sixty-one adults, mean age 47.5 ± 9.9 years, 45.2% females participated in the study. Hypertension prevalence in the study population was 41.4 (95% CI 35.3–47.6%) while diabetes mellitus was 8.1% (95% CI 5.0–12.0%). The proportion of individuals with eGFRCKD-EPI less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 was 17.6 (95% CI 13.2–22.8%). All pairs of rho_c were lower than the threshold of 0.9 except for eGFRCKD-EPI versus eGFRCKD-EPw.

Conclusion:

There is significant discordance in the eGFR obtained from the various serum creatinine-based GFR equations in our population suggesting the need to validate these equations and determine the best equation for our general population.
Comparative Evaluation of Three Histidine-Rich Protein-2 Based Rapid Diagnostic Tests, Microscopy and PCR for Guiding Malaria Treatment in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Orimadegun AE , Funwei RI , Michael OS , Ogunkunle OO , Badejo JA , Olusola FI , Agede O , Anjorin OE , Ajayi IO , Jegede AS , Ojurongbe O , Falade CO
Published: August 2023

Background:

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) are the preferred option for programmatic deployment.

Aims:

There are numerous mRDTs on the Nigerian market and there is a need to guide practitioners on the relative performance of the commonly used brands of mRDT in Nigeria.

Subjects and Methods:

The performance of three commonly used Histidine-Rich-Protein-2-based mRDTs (SD-Bioline™, Carestart™ and Paracheck-Pf™) against microscopy of Giemsa stained blood and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was evaluated among 190 febrile under-5 children in Ibadan, Nigeria. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, predictive values, accuracy, and agreements.

Results:

There were 53.2% males. The prevalence of malaria parasite by microscopy was 46.8% and 57.9% by PCR. Malaria parasite detection by SD-Bioline™ was 60.5%, Carestart™: 60.0% and Paracheck-Pf™ 60.0%. Using microscopy as the gold standard, the sensitivities of SD-Bioline™, Carestart™ and Paracheck-Pf™ mRDT were 97.8%, 96.7% and 97.8% respectively while the specificities were 73.0%, 72.0% and 74.0% respectively. Using PCR as the gold standard, the sensitivity for both SD-Bioline™ and Paracheck-Pf™ was 85.5% and for CareStart was 84.6% while the specificity of SD-Bioline™, Carestart™, and Paracheck-Pf™ was 73.8%, 72.4%, and 75.0% respectively. The test accuracy was 81.0% for both SD-Bioline™ and Paracheck-Pf™ and 80.0% for Caresatrt™. The kappa coefficient of agreement between PCR and each of SD-Bioline™, Carestart, ParaCheck™ and microscopy was 0.597, 0.578, 0.609 and 0.739 respectively.

Conclusion:

The performance of the three mRDTs is a proof that any of the three is suitable for use in the diagnosis of malaria in the southwest of Nigeria.
Clinical Applications of Dental Stem Cells in Modern Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Alhazzazi TY , Alghamdi FT
Published: August 2023

The use of dental stem cells (DSCs) has emerged as a promising new approach for therapeutic purposes to treat dental and non-dental diseases. Thus, the aim of this systematic review was to compile all current information on the role and clinical applications of DSCs in modern regenerative medical therapy. PubMed and Google Scholar electronic databases were used to search the literature for relevant studies after applying specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The search included articles that were published from 2009 to 2019. Several keywords were combined for the search: (1) “Clinical applications”, (2) “Dental Stem Cell”, and (3) “Medicine”. Only the 17 studies that fulfilled both the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this systematic review. These studies investigated different aspects of DSCs, including cell types, clinical applications, and updates of their use in regenerative medicine. All 17 studies favored the use of different DSCS in regenerative medicine to treat diseases, such as bone defects, neural and skin injuries, Parkinson's disease, ischemia, and others. None of the studies were conducted on humans. This systematic review demonstrated the growing body of evidence supporting the role of DSCs in the field of modern generative medicine. The noninvasive methods of isolating these cells compared to those for isolating non-DSCs make them promising potential sources for the treatment of chronic and devastating diseases. However, more studies are needed to develop the proper guidelines for cases in which DSCs could be considered an accurate and reliable tool for modern regenerative medicine in clinical trials.
Pattern of Third Molar Impactions in North-Eastern Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Ahmad P , V'Vian T , Chaudhary FA , Chaudhary A , Haseeb AA , Yaqoob MA , Asif JA
Published: August 2023

Background:

Third molar impaction, if left untreated, has the potential to cause several complications. The evaluation of surgical difficulty of impacted third molar extraction aids in better formulation of treatment plan by minimizing surgical complications.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of third molar impaction and related pathologic conditions in a cohort of patients living in North-eastern Peninsular Malaysia.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, 490 orthopantomograms (OPGs) of patients who were referred to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department between January 2010 and December 2019 were assessed. Data including age, gender, ethnicity, frequency of third molar impactions, their angulations and levels of eruption, retromolar space, and associated pathologic conditions were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0. The significance level was set to P < 0.05.

Results:

A total of 490 patients with a mean age of 28.87 years (range: 20–64) demonstrated 1957 impacted third molars (1022 mandibular + 935 maxillary). Impacted third molars were more likely present in females than males (1:2.20) (p < 0.05); and in Malay-ethnic (44.49%) patients followed by Chinese (34.45%) and Indians (21.02%). Mesioangular was the most common angulation of impaction both in the maxilla (24.68%) and mandible (18.34%). The most common pattern of third molar impaction was IIA (61.67%), and the retromolar space was significantly larger in males (13.6 mm; P < 0.05) than females (11.6 mm). The most frequently occurring pathological condition associated with third molars impaction is dental caries in the second or third molar (15.38%).

Conclusions:

This study highlights mesioangular impaction with their occlusal plane at the same level as the occlusal plane of the adjacent tooth being the most prevalent pattern of third molar impaction in North-eastern Peninsular Malaysia.
Expanding Access to Surgical Care Toward Universal Health Coverage
Authors: Seyi-Olajide JO , Ameh EA , Anyanwu SN
Published: August 2023

The National Surgical Obstetric and Anaesthesia Plan is an invaluable country resource with the capacity to promote increased access to safe and affordable surgical and anaesthesia care if implemented. Although cost of implementation is only a fraction of Health Sector Strategic Plan cost in the countries with costed plans, it is important that the funding of the plans is based on sustainable financing strategies. This will ensure appropriate and timely implementation and sustainability of the plan itself. The aim of this review was to discuss and make recommendations on innovative and sustainable strategies for financing national surgical plans in sub-Saharan Africa.
The Distribution of Geriatric Problems in Otolaryngology and their Alteration from Young Adults
Authors: Önay Ö , Aydin C
Published: August 2023

Background:

Many changes occur in human physiology with aging, and as expected complaints of geriatric patients differ from the other age groups in population.

Aims:

The objective of the study was to investigate the common complaints of geriatric patients attending to an otolaryngology clinic (ENT clinic), and to compare their complaints with the 18–65 years aged patients'. Materials and

Methods:

A total number of 41888 adult patients who visited the ENT clinic from 2015 to 2018 were retrospectively investigated. Patient complaints were scanned, and subcategorized as five groups (otologic/rhinologic/head and neck/ others/ neoplasias) and all data were evaluated.

Results:

Forty-one thousand, eight hundred and eighty-eight patients were included in the study, and 3946 of them were geriatric patients. The most frequent problem was otologic problems, followed by rhinologic problems among geriatric patients. However, rhinologic problems were the major complaint among the 18–65-year-old patients. A comparison of all the individual complaints bringing the geriatric patients to the ENT clinic revealed the three most frequent complaints: 1. hearing loss, 2. balance disorders, and 3. common cold. However, the three major complaints beyond nongeriatric adults were 1. tonsillopharyngeal disease, 2. common cold, and 3. inflammatory and infectious diseases of the sinuses, and these differences were statistically significant (P = 0.001*).

Conclusion:

It was found in this study that the five most frequently reported complaints of geriatric patients when applying to an ENT clinic are hearing loss, loss of balance, common cold, cerumen, and tonsillopharyngeal diseases. Unlike from nongeriatric population, otologic problems (most commonly hearing loss) were the essential ENT clinic complaints of geriatric patients.
Blood Count Parameters can be Useful in Predicting Vascular Events in Microvascular Surgery
Authors: Gunusen Ilkben , Ozdemir Ozlem Yakut , Gur Ersin , Tiftikcioglu Yigit Ozer , Ekin Yusuf Can , Ozturk Kerem
Published: August 2023

Background:

Vascular events are a major cause of flap failure and identifying patients who are at risk is of paramount importance. In the past, many studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of blood count parameters for ischemic events such as peripheral vascular diseases.

Aims:

This study aimed to evaluate whether blood count parameters can have predictive value for vascular events in microvascular flap surgery.

Methods:

Elective cases with free flap microsurgery performed in a single center were reviewed from 2015 to 2019. Demographic data, comorbidities, flap types, perioperative complications, and preoperative blood count parameters from the hospital records were screened.

Results:

A total of 147 patients were included in the study, taken from the 163 patients undergoing free tissue transfer. The rate of thrombosis and partial necrosis was 8.8%, was 8.2%, respectively, and the total flap loss due to these complications was 5.4%. Only patient age, gender, and length of hospital stay were correlated with flap loss. According to the preoperative blood count results, there were significant differences between vascular events and leucocyte, and neutrophil counts.

Conclusion:

The findings of this preliminary study suggest that these parameters may be used in predicting vascular events in flap surgery.
Evaluating the Efficacy of Chemical Disinfectants on Contaminated Dental Materials Contaminated by An Airborne Disease Tuberculosis Similar to COVID-19
Authors: Karaman B , Balık A , Cifter ED , Balıkcı A , Ozenen G , Ozdemir-Ozenen D , Ozdemir-Karatas M
Published: August 2023

Background:

Tuberculosis (TB) is a communicable disease as well as an airborne disease. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) could survive on dental materials shipped to dental laboratories.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine the number of bacilli held on the prosthetic material and the effect of chemical disinfection agents on various prosthetic materials that were shipped to dental laboratory of TB patient.

Materials and Methods:

The study consisted of three study groups, and a control group. 10 mm x 2 mm disc-shaped (n = 18 for each group, n = 72 in total) nickel-chromium alloy (Ni-Cr), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and dental ceramic (DC) samples were prepared. After exposure to MTB 24 hours in a 37°C incubator, six samples for each group (PMMA), Ni-Cr alloy and a control group DC samples) were exposed to three disinfectants; 10 minutes into 2% glutaraldehyde, 10 minutes into 5% sodium hypochlorite, and 1 minute into alcohol-based disinfectant after vortexed in distilled water. Colony forming units (CFU/ml) were calculated per milliliters. Two-way ANOVA statistical analysis method was used, and a P value less than 0.05 was considered as significant.

Results:

The bacteria count for six Ni-Cr alloy disc-shaped specimens were recorded as 40, 10, 8, 6, 5, and 4 CFU/ml, respectively. Intensity of the colonies were found to be lower in other groups. 5 CFU/ml were detected on a single PMMA sample in the control group, and 40 CFU/ml were detected on one of the dental ceramic sample. No MTB uptake was observed on any sample in the 2% glutaraldehyde and 5% NaOCl disinfectant study groups. In alcohol-based disinfectant group, 1 CFU/ml was observed on Ni-Cr alloy sample. The effect of prosthetic materials used in this experimental study were not statistically significant on the CFU (p = 0.293). However, the disinfectants use was statistically significant on the number of colonies (p = 0.004).

Conclusion:

NaOCl and glutaraldehyde appeared to be more effective than alcohol-based disinfectant in removing MTB from Ni-Cr alloy, PMMA and dental ceramic surfaces.
Impact of Adiponectin Resistance on Coronary Artery Disease Severity
Authors: Stojanovic S , Ilic MD , Ilic S , Saric S , Stojanović S , Petrovic V
Published: August 2023

Background:

The serum adiponectin level (AD), adiponectin resistance (AD-R) may reflect the degree of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The role parameter AD-R, The Homeostasis Model Assessment-Adiponectin (HOMA-AD) index on the coronary artery disease (CAD) severity is not still understood.

Objective:

To determine adiponectin concentration and HOMA-AD index in patients with CAD with/without MetS and to evaluate their prognostic importance on severity of CAD.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study involved selected 130 examinees which were divided into three groups: CAD+MetS, CAD-MetS, control group (no CAD/MetS). In all examinees values of biochemical and anthropometric parameters were determined. We analyzed the severity of coronary artery lesions from coronary angiography. Total serum adiponectin concentration was measured by ELISA. We calculated atherogenic Gensini scoring system, Duke prognostic index, and HOMA-AD-index.

Results:

Serum adiponectin level was significantly lower in the group with CAD+MetS (p < 0.001) and in CAD-MetS group (p < 0.01), compared to the control group. The HOMA-AD index showed statistically significant positive correlation with the key parameters of MetS, as well as with the parameters of CAD, number of CAD and modified Gensini score. After applying logistic regression analysis the best predictors for CAD were: adiponectin, blood pressure, HOMA-IR index, and HOMA-AD index. The cut-off values of adiponectin ≤1506.38 pg/mL, HOMA-IR index ≥3.91 and HOMA-AD index ≥0.67 were associated with a higher risk of CAD.

Conclusion:

Patients with CAD with or without MetS had low adiponectin levels and this hypoadiponectinemia indicates that AD and HOMA-AD index may be a useful marker for identifying patients at risk for CAD.
Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Isolates from Clinical Samples and Asymptomatic Nasal Carriers in Istanbul (Turkey)
Authors: Dincer SD , Demirci M , Celepler Y , Namal N , Aksaray S , Aktepe OC , Torun MM
Published: August 2023

Background:

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been a widespread problem in Turkish hospitals.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to investigate the staphylococcal toxin genes of the clinical and nasal MRSA isolates, and their antibiotic resistance profiles.

Materials and Methods:

Isolation of nasal and clinical bacteria was done following standard microbiological methods. The presence of antimicrobial resistance genes (mec A, pvl, tsst-1, and SEs genes) was determined using the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay.

Results:

Among nasal MRSA isolates, 66.7% were toxigenic. The distribution of genes was as follows: pvl 26.7%, tsst-1 3.3%, and SEs 36.7%. Therefore, the nasal MRSA isolates had a rate of 23.3% multidrug resistance (MDR) pattern to the non-beta-lactams antibiotics. All (100%) clinical MRSA isolates were found to be toxigenic. The distribution of genes was as follows; pvl 10%, tsst-1 6.7%, and SEs 100%. The clinical MRSA isolates had a rate of 60% MDR.

Conclusions:

Following detection of pvl, tsst-1, and SEs among nasal and clinical MRSA isolates, and the presence of high antimicrobial resistance, the spread of these strains may be an additional factor contributing to the emergence of community-acquired (CA)-MRSA and hospital-acquired (HA)-MRSA. This study is the first to determine the resistance to linezolid and tigecycline in both nasal and clinical MRSA isolates, for the first time in Turkey. All nasal and clinical MRSA isolates were uniformly susceptible to vancomycin and quinupristin-dalfopristin. Our findings show that MRSA infections in Turkey can be empirically treated with vancomycin and quinupristin-dalfopristin based on the lack of demonstrable resistance to these drugs.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Hypocalcemia Among Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women in Maiduguri, Nigeria
Authors: Bako B , El-Nafaty AU , Mshelia DS , Gali RM , Isa B , Dungus M M
Published: August 2023

Background:

Pregnancy is a period of heightened calcium demand necessary for the optimum growth and development of the fetus and placenta. Women with low calcium intake may manifest with hypocalcemia in pregnancy.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors of hypocalcemia among pregnant and non-pregnant women in Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Subjects and Methods:

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri from 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2018. For each patient, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were noted. Serum calcium, phosphate, total protein, and albumin were determined using spectrophometric methods with their specific reagents. The data obtained was analyzed using the SPSS statistical software for windows version 20. Chi-square test, Student t-test and ANOVA were used as appropriate. Odd ratio with multiple logistic regression was used to determine risk factors for hypocalcemia. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 1,500 (1,000 pregnant and 500 non-pregnant) women were analyzed. The mean age, total protein, and albumin were similar in the pregnant and non-pregnant women. However, the non-pregnant women were of higher parity than the pregnant women (3.75 ± 2.79 versus 2.45 ± 2.24, P < 0.001). The staple food of both group were mainly high carbohydrate diets. The prevalence of hypocalcemia was 29.20% among the pregnant women and 14.20% among the non-pregnant women (X2 = 64.34, P < 0.001). The mean serum calcium was lower among the pregnant compared to the non-pregnant women (2.08 ± 0.22 mmol/L versus 2.2 ± 0.19 mmol/L, F = 5.73, P = 0.02). There were no statistically significant differences in the mean serum calcium across the trimesters of pregnancy (F = 1.58, P = 0.21).

Conclusion:

Hypocalcemia in pregnancy is common in our environment and it is associated with anemia in pregnancy, anorexia, and primigravidity while attainment of at least basic education is protective. We recommend routine calcium supplementation in pregnancy and preconception period.
A Clinical Audit of Histopathologically Diagnosed Ossifying Fibroma of the Jaws in a Nigerian Population
Authors: Okechi UC , Anyanechi CE , Saheeb BD
Published: August 2023

Background:

Ossifying fibroma (OF) is a benign tumor of the jaws, which belongs to the group of fibro-osseous lesions, and exhibits slowly progressive growth leading to jaw expansion with well-defined borders.

Objective:

To evaluate the clinical and radiological characteristics of OFs and their treatment.

Materials and Methods:

A 5-year retrospective study was done. The case notes of subjects were retrieved, analyzed, and evaluated. Relevant information about patients was categorized into bio-data, clinical, and radiological. The diagnosis of lesion was made histopathologically by the oral pathologist.

Results:

Forty- five patients' case notes were retrieved and analyzed and the patients' age ranged from 2 to 70 years (mean 29.4 ± 16.9). Majority of the patients (55.5%; P = 0.23) were 10–29 years. There were 16 (35.6%) males and 29 (64.4%) females giving a male: female ratio of 1:1.8 (P = 0.01). The cross-sectional dimension of the tumors measured vertically and horizontally ranges from 1 cm2 to 420 cm2 (mean = 54.7 cm2 ± 82.9). There were 60% in the maxilla and 40% in the mandible (P = 0.014). Most of the lesions (68.9%; P = 0.01) showed patchy opacity and cotton wool appearances. Majority of the lesions were extirpated by enucleation alone (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of OF among the fibro-osseous lesions was 51.0% while against other benign lesions, it was 16.0%. In conclusion, contrary to most other reports across the globe, this lesion in southeast Nigeria occurred more frequently in the maxilla than mandible.
Managing cholesteatomas with labyrinthine fistula
Authors: Aw Natalie Min Yi , Thong Jiun Fong , Tan Barrie Yau Boon , Tan Vanessa Yee Jueen
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

A retrospective study (2011 to 2018) was conducted to evaluate the management of cholesteatomas with labyrinthine fistulae (LFs), clinical characteristics and postoperative hearing outcomes in a hospital.

Methods:

Demographic data of patients with primary middle ear mastoidectomies for cholesteatoma were extracted. Preoperative high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) temporal bone and intraoperative findings, and hearing levels preoperatively and postoperatively were evaluated.

Results:

Of the middle ear cholesteatomas, 15.6% (n = 14) of ears were complicated by LF. HRCT scans showed 92.9% sensitivity and 94.7% specificity in the identification of LFs. Intraoperative findings of LFs include stapes erosion (78.6%), malleus erosion (78.6%), incus erosion (92.9%), dehiscence of tegmen tympani (28.6%) and tympanic facial canal (64.3%). Compared to the non-LF group, the LF group showed significantly higher incidence of stapes erosion (P < 0.001), tegmen tympani dehiscence (P = 0.016) and semicircular canal dehiscence (P < 0.001). Matrix was removed completely in 85.7% (n = 12) and was left behind in 14.3% (n = 2) of ears. Also, 21.5% (n = 3) had preoperative dead ears. Postoperative hearing results had a mean follow-up time of 2.1 (standard deviation 1.5, range 0.14–4.84) years. In the matrix removal group (n = 9), 77.9% had unchanged hearing levels, 11.1% showed improvement and 11.1% showed decrease in hearing levels. The matrix preservation group (n = 2) had deteriorated hearing levels.

Conclusion:

Preservation of hearing in LFs is possible with cautious matrix removal. Despite matrix preservation to preserve hearing in large LFs, our patients’ hearing deteriorated postoperatively. Longer follow-up of hearing with matrix preservation may show poorer hearing outcomes.
Prognostic and diagnostic scoring models in acute alcohol-associated hepatitis: A review comparing the performance of different scoring systems
Authors: Mitri Jad , Almeqdadi Mohammad , Karagozian Raffi
Published: August 2023

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic and progressive immune-mediated cholangiopathy causing biliary tree inflammation and scarring, leading to liver cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Diagnosis of PSC is challenging due to its nonspecific symptoms and overlap with other liver diseases. Despite the rising incidence of PSC, there is no proven medical therapy that can alter the natural history of the disease. While liver transplantation (LT) is the most effective approach for managing advanced liver disease caused by PSC, post-transplantation recurrence of PSC remains a challenge. Therefore, ongoing research aims to develop better therapies for PSC, and continued efforts are necessary to improve outcomes for patients with PSC. This article provides an overview of PSC’s pathogenesis, clinical presentation, and management options, including LT trends and future aspects. It also highlights the need for improved therapeutic options and ethical considerations in providing equitable access to LT for patients with PSC. Additionally, the impact of liver transplant on the quality of life and psychological outcomes of patients with PSC is discussed. Ongoing research into PSC’s pathogenesis and post-transplant recurrence is crucial for improved understanding of the disease and more effective treatment options.
An Exploratory Study of a Story Problem Assessment: Understanding Children's Number Sense
Authors: Shumway Jessica F. , Westenskow Arla , Moyer-Packenham Patricia S.
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe students' use of number sense as they solved story problem tasks. Three 8- and 9-year-old students participated in clinical interviews. Through a process of holistic and qualitative coding, researchers used the number sense view as a theoretical framework for exploring how students' number sense was reflected in their numerical reasoning and verbal explanations of strategies for solving story problems. The results suggest that students' coordination of number sense constructs affords flexibility in problem-solving and deeper understanding of place value. Implications for classroom practice and mathematics education research are discussed.
In-Service Teachers' Perceptions and Interpretations of Students' Errors in Mathematics
Authors: Chauraya Million , Mashingaidze Samuel
Published: August 2023

This paper reports on findings of a research study that investigated in-service secondary school teachers' perceptions and interpretations of students' errors in mathematics. The study used a survey research design in which a questionnaire with two sections was used to collect data. The first section sought to find out the teachers' perceptions of the nature of errors. In the second part the teachers were asked to explain five common errors in algebra. A sample of forty-two mathematics teachers randomly drawn from one university in Zimbabwe constituted the respondents for the study. The findings showed that teachers perceived errors as not solely due to the student, but also as due to other factors arising from teaching and the nature of the subject. The teachers also regarded errors as useful for further inquiry in mathematics, as a normal part of learning, and as a result of previous knowledge not well understood by learners. In their explanations of given errors in algebra the teachers gave mainly procedural explanations, some of which lacked clarity or were incorrect. The study recommends the need for pre-service and in-service teacher professional development programmes to incorporate error analyses so as to develop teachers' understanding of the nature and role of errors in the teaching and learning of mathematics.
Pattern Finding Skills of Pre-school Children
Authors: Tarim Kamuran
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the pattern finding skills of pre-school children and the in-class pattern activities conducted by teachers. The research was designed as a descriptive survey study carried out with a total of 162 children aged 60-77 months from families with middle socio-economic status. The findings of the study revealed that the children's pattern-finding achievement was above average and that there was not a significant difference between the pattern finding skills of the children in terms of gender and age. Lastly, in relation to pattern categories, the results showed that the children were more successful in the repetitive pattern category and pattern sub-categories, and structures were effective in the children's pattern-finding performance. In addition, the teachers were found to use repetitive patterns more frequently and triple-structured patterns most frequently in in-class pattern activities.
Elementary School Students' and Prospective Teachers' Proportional Reasoning Skills
Authors: Toluk Ucar Zulbiye , Bozkus Figen
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate prospective elementary school mathematics teachers and elementary school students' ability to distinguish proportional situations from non-proportional situations. Participants of the study were 319 prospective elementary teachers and 320 elementary school students. Four problems consisting of two proportional and two non-proportional situations were used as a data collection tool. Participants' strategies were coded as multiplicative, additive, and other. Findings indicated that while elementary school students were dominantly additive reasoners, prospective teachers were multiplicative reasoners. While prospective teachers tended to display multiplicative errors, elementary school students inclined to make additive errors in choice of strategy. It was striking that less than half of the prospective elementary mathematics teachers and only one-third of the prospective primary teachers was able to apply appropriate strategies.
Effect of a Bypass on the Aerodynamic Characteristics of Active
Grille Shutters
Authors: Wolf Thomas
Published: August 2023

Vehicles with active grille shutter (AGS) systems often have bypass and leakage
situations that influence the aerodynamic effectiveness and characteristics of
the AGS. Precise knowledge of these characteristics, that is, the functional
relationship between drag, cooling airflow rate, and degree of opening of an AGS
is a prerequisite for optimum aero-thermodynamic integration into the overall
vehicle. However, relatively little is yet known about the interaction of bypass
and leakage flows with AGS systems. The present work therefore investigates how
a bypass affects the aerodynamic characteristics of AGS. The starting point is a
recently developed theory that allows an analytical prediction of the
aerodynamic behavior of AGS based on the opening characteristic. This
theoretical approach is first extended to the case with bypass and matched
against experimental data from a real vehicle with AGS bypass configuration. The
comparisons between theory and experiment lead to two semiempirical correction
methods, which are validated using data from further real vehicles and which can
be used to describe the influence of a bypass satisfactorily. The results of the
experimental and theoretical investigations provide a detailed insight into the
mode of action of a bypass. It is shown that the combination of an AGS with a
bypass leads to a decrease in the authority of the AGS and thus to a shift in
the characteristic curve. As a result, to achieve a defined degree of throttling
in the presence of a bypass, a significantly higher degree of closure of the AGS
is required. The results also explain the influence of leakage at an AGS and the
behavior of systems with multiple AGS modules, where the individual modules are
opened one after the other. The developed correction methods, in conjunction
with the opening characteristic or the degree of opening of an AGS, allow both
the theoretical prediction of the aerodynamic characteristics of AGS bypass
configurations and the optimization of the opening or closing strategy of AGS
systems consisting of several AGS modules.
Proton pump inhibitors and gastroprotection in patients treated with antithrombotic drugs: A cardiologic point of view
Authors: Abrignani Maurizio Giuseppe , Lombardo Alberto , Braschi Annabella , Renda Nicolò , Abrignani Vincenzo
Published: August 2023

Aspirin, other antiplatelet agents, and anticoagulant drugs are used across a wide spectrum of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. A concomitant proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment is often prescribed in these patients, as gastrointestinal complications are relatively frequent. On the other hand, a potential increased risk of cardiovascular events has been suggested in patients treated with PPIs; in particular, it has been discussed whether these drugs may reduce the cardiovascular protection of clopidogrel, due to pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions through hepatic metabolism. Previously, the concomitant use of clopidogrel and omeprazole or esomeprazole has been discouraged. In contrast, it remains less known whether PPI use may affect the clinical efficacy of ticagrelor and prasugrel, new P2Y12 receptor antagonists. Current guidelines recommend PPI use in combination with antiplatelet treatment in patients with risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding, including advanced age, concurrent use of anticoagulants, steroids, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) infection. In patients taking oral anticoagulant with risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding, PPIs could be recommended, even if their usefulness deserves further data. H. pylori infection should always be investigated and treated in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease (with or without complication) treated with antithrombotic drugs. The present review summarizes the current knowledge regarding the widespread combined use of platelet inhibitors, anticoagulants, and PPIs, discussing consequent clinical implications.
Moderasi Beragama: Upaya Guru Pendidikan Agama Kristen Mencegah Sikap Intoleran Pada Remaja
Authors: Meniria laoli  , Zai Leo Swastani , Marampa Elieser R , Undras Indraldo
Published: August 2023

Intoleran adalah sikap menentang perbedaan antar sesama manusia. Sikap intoleran ini dapat menghambat kesejahteraan hidup berbangsa dan bernegara yang ditandai dengan munculnya berbagai pertikaian antar umat beragama dan antar budaya yang terjadi dalam lingkungan masyarakat maupun lingkungan pendidikan. Oleh karena itu, peneliti tertarik mengkaji sejauh mana upaya guru Pendidikan Agama Kristen mencegah sikap intoleran melalui penanaman pemahaman moderasi beragama. Dalam penelitian ini peneliti menggunakan metode pendekatan kualitatif dengan studi pustaka (library research) yaitu mengutip penelitian terdahulu dari berbagai sumber antara lain artikel jurnal, buku, dan pdf yang menjadi pendukung dalam penulisan artikel ini. Hasil dari analisis upaya guru pendidikan agama kristen mencegah sikap intoleransi pada anak remaja melalui penanaman pemahaman moderasi beragama sebagai mata pelajaran yang disampaikan oleh guru PAK dengan  harapan mampu  menumbuhkan sikap menghargai perbedaan baik dari segi agama, ras, suku, antar golongan, budaya dan tingkat perekonomian, mencintai bangsa dengan segenap hati, tidak menjatuhkan satu sama lain dan hidup sebagai masyarakat yang demokratis.
The effectiveness of an automated heat detection system in Brown Swiss heifers when using sexed semen at a large dairy unit
Authors: Mylosyvyi Roman , Skliarov Pavlo , Izhboldina Olena , Chernenko Оleksandr , Lieshchova Мaryna , Gutyj Bogdan , Marenkov Oleh , Rahmoun Djallal Eddine
Published: August 2023

The identification of cows and heifers in heat and their timely artificial insemination (AI) is an important issue for large dairy units. The objective of the research was to study the efficiency of insemination of oestrous Brown Swiss heifers using am automated heat detection system (AHD) compared to heat detection by visual observation (VO). The AHD system application increased the fertility of heifers by 8.9% when using conventional semen (unsexed) and by 14.4% using sexed semen. The number of services per conception when using sexed semen decreased from 3.7±1.08 with VO to 2.4±0.68 with AHD. Two-factor analysis of variance showed that an 89% effect of managerial decisions such as the detection of heifers in heat by means of AHD and the use of sexed semen on the efficiency of insemination. This study showed that professional breeders and veterinarians should pay particular attention to AI management when making these managerial decisions in large dairy units.
PLANET REDÜKTÖRLÜ ROBOTİK AKTÜATÖR TASARIMI VE ÜÇ BOYUTLU (3B) YAZICI İLE İMALATI
Authors: TATAR Ahmet Burak
Published: August 2023

Bu çalışmada, eklemli robotik sistemlerde kullanılması amacıyla planet redüktör yapılı eklem tahrik ünitesi tasarlanmıştır. Aktüatör olarak ifade edilen robot eklem tahrik ünitesinin yapısında; tahrik motoru, redüksiyon sistemi, motor kontrol ünitesi ve geri bildirim ünitesi (sensör, enkoder, potansiyometre vb.) yer almaktadır. Eklem bacaklı veya manipülatör yapılı robotik sistemlerin eklem hareketleri için yüksek torklu ve hızlı tepki verebilecek tahrik sistemleri tercih edilmektedir. Kontrol ve kullanım kolaylığı açısından tahrik motoru olarak DC motor kullanılmıştır. Eklemlerde yüksek tork ve hız elde edebilmek için planet (gezegen) dişli redüktör sistemi tasarlanmıştır. 3 boyutlu (3B) yazıcılar yardımıyla PLA malzemeden imal edilecek olan planet redüktörün, kullanılacak motor, sürücü ve enkoder çeşidine göre tasarlanarak ilgili uygulamalarda kullanıma sunulması amaçlanmıştır. Hedeflenen redüktör tahvil oranına göre planet dişlilerin kinematik analizi gerçekleştirilmiş, robotik sistemlerde verimli kullanılabilmesi için uygun tasarım sonucu eklem tahrik sistemi oluşturulmuştur.
Clinical impact of pharmacotherapeutic follow-up and pharmacist interventions in a reference hospital in Mexico City
Authors: Maza Larrea José Antonio , Moreno Zamudio Daniela , Gutiérrez Villegas Ingrid , Peredo Gómez Karla Michel , Fernández Rosas Susana
Published: August 2023

Background: Pharmacotherapeutic monitoring is a professional practice focused on identifying, preventing, and resolving drug-related problems (DRPs).
Objective: To assess the clinical impact of pharmacotherapeutic follow-up (PFU) and pharmacist interventions in hospitalised patients at the Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez.
Methods: A retrospective, observational, descriptive study based on the information from two databases between July 2021 and June 2022 was conducted to calculate the risk reduction associated with pharmacist interventions on medical prescriptions.
Results: The study involved 3015 patients who received care during the specified timeframe. The pharmacists provided 10130 attentions, including 5593 medication reconciliations, 16027 pharmacotherapeutic profiles, and 18542 assessments of prescription suitability. The pharmacists carried out 3628 interventions, of which 2282 were targeted at medical prescriptions. The results indicated an increase in risk reduction for accepted interventions, achieving a rate of 40.23%.
Conclusion: Pharmacist interventions improved prescriptions, identified and prevented DRPs and medication errors, and enhanced medication safety by facilitating informed therapeutic decisions.
Factores de riesgo que intervienen en el consumo de sustancias psicotrópicas y psicoactivas
Authors: Urrutia Sagnay Linner Paola , Matovelle Bustos Daniela Lorena
Published: August 2023

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo general examinar los factores de riesgo que influyen en el consumo de drogas en pacientes masculinos internados en un hospital de la ciudad de Guayaquil. El uso de drogas provoca un estado de dependencia manifestándose patrones fisiológicos, de comportamiento y cognitivos, perjudicando a los individuos. El índice de consumo de sustancias psicoactivas y psicotrópicas se presenta por varias causas dividiéndose en factores internos y externos. Las personas que eligen someterse a un programa de desintoxicación cursan un proceso conocido como el síndrome de abstinencia, cuando dejan de consumir drogas, evidenciándose síntomas físicos y/o mentales. Se identificó que existe un nivel de instrucción básica entre los consumidores, la mayoría de individuos se relacionan con familiares y amigos que consumen, el inicio de consumo empezó entre los 14 – 20 años y previamente al consumo los individuos fueron diagnosticados con alguna patología de base como la depresión.