bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of the impurity content on the density and viscosity of olive oily fluids
Authors: Vallesquino-Laguna P. , Tirado-Esquinas A.
Published: December 2023

In this work, as a case study, the measurement of the density (ρ) and the dynamic viscosity (µ) of 12 different fluids (taken from a conventional oil mill) has been carried out. The variability of the samples processed shows that their impurity contents c (between 0.5-5.87%), together with the temperature t (which varied between 20-30 ºC), can affect the values of ρ and µ. However, this variation has been shown to be different depending on the case, being of the order of 1% for density or even more than 50% for dynamic viscosity. The fact that µ can be sensitive to the presence of impurities opens up a line of study that could be used to estimate such impuritiy content, in real time, by means of relatively simple methods.
Gut Microbiota Is Associated with Onset and Severity of Type 1 Diabetes in Nonobese Diabetic Mice Treated with Anti–PD-1
Authors: Patel Shriram , Becker Eugenia , Ploix Corinne , Steiner Guido , Scepanovic Petar , Fueth Matthias , de Vera Mudry Maria Cristina , Eichinger-Chapelon Anne , Marrer-Berger Estelle , Claesson Marcus J
Published: December 2023

Our bodies are home to individual-specific microbial ecosystems that have recently been found to be modified by cancer immunotherapies. The interaction between the gut microbiome and islet autoimmunity leading to type I diabetes (T1D) is well described and highlights the microbiome contribution during the onset and T1D development in animals and humans. As cancer immunotherapies induce gut microbiome perturbations and immune-mediated adverse events in susceptible patients, we hypothesized that NOD mice can be used as a predictive tool to investigate the effects of anti–PD-1 treatment on the onset and severity of T1D, and how microbiota influences immunopathology. In this longitudinal study, we showed that anti–PD-1 accelerated T1D onset, increased glutamic acid decarboxylase–reactive T cell frequency in spleen, and precipitated destruction of β cells, triggering high glucose levels and pancreatic islet reduction. Anti–PD-1 treatment also resulted in temporal microbiota changes and lower diversity characteristic of T1D. Finally, we identified known insulin-resistance regulating bacteria that were negatively correlated with glucose levels, indicating that anti–PD-1 treatment impacts the early gut microbiota composition. Moreover, an increase of mucin-degrading Akkermansia muciniphila points to alterations of barrier function and immune system activation. These results highlight the ability of microbiota to readily respond to therapy-triggered pathophysiological changes as rescuers (Bacteroides acidifaciens and Parabacteroides goldsteinii) or potential exacerbators (A. muciniphila). Microbiome-modulating interventions may thus be promising mitigation strategies for immunotherapies with high risk of immune-mediated adverse events.
First detection of Leishmania DNA in Lutzomyia longipalpis sensu lato (Diptera: Phlebotominae) in southem Mexico
Authors: de Oca-Aguilar Ana C Montes , Fernández-Figueroa Edith A , Pavón-Méndez Mariela I , López-Ávila Karina , Sosa-Bibiano Erika I , Rebollar-Téllez Eduardo A , Palacio-Vargas Jorge A , Miranda-Ortíz Haydee , Loría-Cervera Elsy N
Published: December 2023

Background & objectives:

Lutzomyia longipalpis sensu lato is an important vector of Leishmania infantum, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in Latin America. In Mexico, this species has been recorded in endemic areas of leishmaniasis transmission, but it has never been detected as infected with Leishmania sp. This study aimed to explore the presence of Leishmania DNA in Lutzomyia longipalpis s.l. from samples collected with a human baited trap from an endemic region of leishmaniasis in southeastern Mexico.

Methods:

This is a prospective study where a total of 45 specimens of Lu. longipalpis s.l. collected in two sites of Yucatan state with records of leishmaniasis were tested. The nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer was amplified for the detection of Leishmania DNA.

Results:

Two females were positive for Leishmania DNA. None of the specimens positive for parasite DNA were found fed or gravid. Our finding represents the first record of infection by Leishmania in Lu. longipalpis s.l. for the country.

Interpretation & conclusion:

More studies are necessary to understand the potential role of this vector species in the transmission cycle of the causative agent of leishmaniasis in the southeastern and other regions of Mexico.
Logistic regression in cancer research: A narrative review of the concept, analysis, and interpretation
Authors: Kumar Sharath , Gota Vikram
Published: December 2023

Logistic regression is a fundamental statistical technique employed in predictive modeling. It transforms a linear combination of input variables into a probability value, allowing the available data to predict the likelihood of an event occurring. Interpretation involves understanding the coefficients of the model, odds ratios, and the impact of predictor variables on the outcome. Various performance metrics, such as the receiver operating characteristic curve, the area under the curve, and R-squared (measure of the percentage of total variation in the dependent variable that is accounted for by the independent variable), aid in assessing the model accuracy. We conducted an extensive search in the PubMed database for relevant articles published in English between January 2013 and August 2023 using the keywords, “logistic regression,” “binary logistic regression,” “logistic regression in cancer research,” “logistic regression analysis,” and “logistic regression result interpretation.” Of the 118 articles retrieved by the original search, we excluded 103 and included 15 in the review; we manually added six more articles considered classic examples of logistic regression and regression statistics. The review encompasses a wide spectrum of cancer research applications, from tumor classification and prognosis to risk assessment and response prediction. The article takes a step-by-step approach, guiding readers through the data preparation, model construction, and interpretation processes in the context of logistic regression.
Psychological Impact of Maxillectomy and Prosthodontic Rehabilitation and Role of Socio-demographic and Disease-related Variables
Authors: Gupta Chanchal , Raj Ruchi
Published: December 2023

Background:

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the psychological impact of maxillectomy and prosthodontic rehabilitation and to assess the role of various sociodemographic and disease-related variables on the psychological distress of patients.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-nine patients who were referred for prosthodontic rehabilitation after maxillectomy were enrolled, of whom 36 completed the study. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess and compare the psychological distress level after maxillectomy (T0) and 3 weeks after insertion of a definitive obturator (T1). The Obturator Functioning Scale was also used to assess the functioning of the obturator prosthesis. The means of anxiety and depression scores were also compared among different variables using one-way ANOVA. A probability level of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Anxiety and depression scores were significantly reduced at T1 compared to T0 (P < 0.001). The patients reported little or no difficulty with the obturator prosthesis. Among the sociodemographic variables, psychological distress was not affected by the patient’s age or marital status at any time point (P > 0.05); however, the female, illiterate, and unemployed patients had significantly higher HADS scores compared to the male, graduate, and employed patients (P < 0.05). Malignant tumors and large postsurgical defects had a significant impact on psychological distress compared to benign tumors and small defects (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Maxillectomy had a profound psychological impact. Prosthodontic rehabilitation after maxillectomy restored function and esthetics to near normalcy, and this helps to cope with psychological distress.
Recurrent and chronic anterior uveitis: Long-term outcome and treatment strategies
Authors: Sharon Yael , Goren Lee , Barayev Edward , Neumann Ron , Chu David S , Kramer Michal
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To study the long-term clinical outcome and treatment strategies of recurrent and chronic non-infectious anterior uveitis.

Methods:

Multicenter study of anterior uveitis patients from 2001 to 2022. Outcome measures included ocular complications, medical and surgical therapies, and visual acuity measured at the beginning of follow-up and at 1, 2, and 5 years thereafter.

Results:

In total, 76 patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 6.8 years. Idiopathic anterior uveitis was the most common etiology (56%). Immunomodulatory agents (IMAs) were used in almost half of the cohort. Early initiation of IMAs was associated with a lower risk of developing glaucoma (P = 0.019). Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved after 5 years in both groups. Early use of immunomodulation was correlated with a better visual outcome at 2 years (P = 0.024).

Conclusion:

Chronic and recurrent anterior uveitis were associated with greater risk than expected for ocular complications, surgeries, and vision impairment. Early initiation of immunomodulation should be strongly considered to improve clinical course and outcome.
In vivo identification of angle dysgenesis and its relation to genetic markers associated with glaucoma using artificial intelligence
Authors: Gupta Viney , Birla Shweta , Varshney Toshit , Somarajan Bindu I , Gupta Shikha , Gupta Mrinalini , Panigrahi Arnav , Singh Abhishek , Gupta Dinesh
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To predict the presence of angle dysgenesis on anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (ADoA) by using deep learning (DL) and to correlate ADoA with mutations in known glaucoma genes.

Participants:

In total, 800 high-definition anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) images were included, of which 340 images were used to build the machine learning (ML) model. Images used to build the ML model included 170 scans of primary congenital glaucoma (16 patients), juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma (62 patients), and adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma eyes (37 patients); the rest were controls (n = 85). The genetic validation dataset consisted of another 393 images of patients with known mutations that were compared with 320 images of healthy controls.

Methods:

ADoA was defined as the absence of Schlemm’s canal, the presence of hyperreflectivity over the region of the trabecular meshwork, or a hyperreflective membrane. DL was used to classify a given AS-OCT image as either having angle dysgenesis or not. ADoA was then specifically looked for on AS-OCT images of patients with mutations in the known genes for glaucoma.

Results:

The final prediction, which was a consensus-based outcome from the three optimized DL models, had an accuracy of >95%, a specificity of >97%, and a sensitivity of >96% in detecting ADoA in the internal test dataset. Among the patients with known gene mutations, (MYOC, CYP1B1, FOXC1, and LTBP2) ADoA was observed among all the patients in the majority of the images, compared to only 5% of the healthy controls.

Conclusion:

ADoA can be objectively identified using models built with DL.
Bridging the gap: The promise of corneal bioengineering and regeneration
Authors: Lohchab Monica , Gour Abha , Vohra Mehak , Sangwan Virender Singh
Published: December 2023

In recent years, significant advances in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have led to innovative approaches in addressing the various challenges associated with corneal transplants using bioengineered corneas. This mini-review aims to introduce the general ophthalmologist to the concept and technique of bioengineered cornea and provide an overview of the developments so far and an insight into the future direction. By summarizing the latest research and current limitations, we aim to highlight their potential for the future in ultimately contributing to vision restoration.
Psoriasis Clearance Rates with Different Treatments – An In-depth Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Lovell Katie , Zaino Mallory , Kontzias Christina , Feldman Steven R.
Published: December 2023

Background:

Before the advent of biologics, psoriasis clearance was not a realistic goal of treatment.

Purpose:

This retrospective chart review aimed to compare the rates of psoriasis clearance associated with different modes of therapy in real-life practice.

Methods:

The study included 256 psoriasis patients who had >2 Physician Global Assessment and body surface area scores and psoriasis treatments recorded during a 3-year period.

Results:

Injection biologics performed better than regimens including topical agents alone or in combination with topical and oral systemic therapy. Patients on injection regimens accounted for 90% of patients with disease clearance. Injection therapy alone had a larger decrease in psoriasis severity scores from baseline than injection therapy combined with other agents. Despite clinical trials being monotherapy studies, this study conducted at a large referral center aligns with the clearance rates reported in clinical trials.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that monotherapy studies can be translated into community practice. Overall, this study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of biologic therapy in psoriasis management and underscores the importance of patient education on the potential for complete clearance with modern therapies.
Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis Diagnosed as Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gupta Kritika , Khan Hania Q. , Amin Syed S. , Chandra Mithilesh
Published: December 2023

Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a rare fatal autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hyaline deposition in the skin and internal organs. Children with ISH usually present to orthopedicians due to decreased and painful limb movements with flexed position and are often misdiagnosed due to unnoticed cutaneous involvement. We describe an infant who was diagnosed with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and is being managed for the same with serial plaster casts over limbs to release contractures. He was referred to the dermatology department for intertrigo, where we observed characteristic frog position of limbs, painful limb movements, and nodules over joints. Histopathology confirmed the hyaline dermal deposition, and the child was diagnosed with ISH. This case highlights the importance of extensive general and systemic examination and a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose rare disorders. Timely referral helps to avoid unnecessary investigations or painful invasive procedures.
Diagnosis and Management of Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis in a 9-year-old Girl
Authors: Srivani Tammina Mohana , George Joann Pauline , Gadde Pujitha
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is an uncommon, inherited condition with slow and progressive fibrous hyperplasia of the gingiva. The fibrous nature of the enlargement interferes with eruption, mastication, speech, and occlusion. This condition is more commonly noted during the transition from deciduous to permanent dentition. This can have overbearing effects on the psychology and function of the individual, thus making early diagnosis and precise management important. The conventional mode of treatment includes scalpel gingivectomy (external/internal bevel). In young patients, gingivectomies involving the entire dentition can be a therapeutic challenge. Lasers have proven themselves as viable substitutes for conventional gingival surgeries. The use of Light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) for gingivectomy may also present added advantages such as lack of bleeding, increased patient cooperation, and better compliance. This case report presents the diagnosis and treatment of HGF in a 9-year-old girl emphasizing the unique advantage of LASER in the clinical scenario.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE TO INTERDISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare condition that is seen associated with the eruption of permanent dentition

The pediatric dentist normally first diagnoses HGF in children. The management of the same requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes a pedodontist and a periodontist

The treatment of choice which is gingivectomy when done with a scalpel for the entire dentition may raise therapeutic challenges in young patients

Light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) gingivectomy will offer a bloodless, painless surgical field making the child more amenable to gingivectomy

LASER gingivectomy delivered by the periodontist under the watchful aegis of a pedodontist will make a right therapeutic choice for the treatment of HGF

The 9-year-old patient was compliant due to the decreased bleeding and time associated with LASER gingivectomy

Laser protocol is minimally invasive and has reduced postoperative discomfort and hence is well accepted by pediatric patients and has shown higher levels of predictability.
Adducted Thumb in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: An Early Clue to Prenatal Diagnosis of L1 Syndrome
Authors: Yang Yan-Dong , Li Dong-Zhi
Published: December 2023

A pregnant woman was revealed to have an unusual position of the fetal hand by a routine 12-week ultrasound. Bilateral adducted thumbs and a male phenotype were confirmed by another ultrasound at 14 weeks’ gestation. A structural survey at 18 weeks revealed fetal hydrocephalus with severe bilateral ventriculomegaly. The pregnancy was terminated, and postnatal examination with trio exome sequencing detected a hemizygous deletion (1,511 bp in size) variant of L1CAM gene in the fetus, inherited from the mother. The fetus was diagnosed as L1 syndrome (X-linked hydrocephalus). A family study found that this was a familial mutant allele. This study demonstrates that fetal hand abnormalities can be identified in the first trimester. Adducted thumbs might indicate the maldevelopment of the fetal brain, and therefore, examination of fetal hands and fingers should be integrated into fetal anomaly scans.
Ultrasound Assessment of an Isolated Rupture of the Medial Bundle of a Bifid Distal Biceps Tendon
Authors: Charnock Mark
Published: December 2023

This case study describes a patient with a clinically ruptured distal biceps tendon, with ultrasound detecting an isolated rupture of the medial bundle of a bifid distal biceps tendon. A 45-year-old male presented to the accident and emergency department with a week-old history of a right elbow injury. The ultrasound scan demonstrated a hypoechoic, corrugated distal biceps tendon with a tendon stump close to the radial tuberosity insertion in keeping with a rupture. However, a small caliber accessory or bifid distal biceps tendon was also identified and was intact. Typically, distal biceps tendon ruptures occur following a traumatic event with most detected clinically although imaging is required to confirm the diagnosis. Ultrasound is utilized to assess these injuries, and several different techniques or approaches are described in the literature. A combination of these approaches is required to make an accurate diagnosis. Detection of bifid distal biceps tendons is important for patient management, especially if a surgical repair is considered. This case highlights the anatomical variant of a bifid distal biceps tendon, which was ruptured clinically. The ultrasound diagnosis of distal biceps tendon ruptures can be challenging, especially when there is limited tendon retraction. This case also demonstrated the importance of dynamic ultrasound in the assessment of tendon ruptures.
Ultrasound Assessment in a Pregnant Woman? Not just for the Fetus
Authors: Coelho Telmo Borges , Gomes Ricardo Manuel Rocha , Teixeira Jorge , Mariz José António
Published: December 2023

Pericarditis is a relatively common diagnosis worldwide; however, there are few data published on the frequency, diagnosis, and management of pericardial diseases in pregnant women. Ultrasonography has established its utmost importance and is worldwide recognized in pregnancy and fetal evaluation. Moreover, point-of-care ultrasonography of pregnant women, guided by clinical examination and history, can play an equally fundamental role. We present a case of a 37-year-old pregnant woman who presented at the emergency department with pleuritic chest pain, fever, and cough. Bedside point-of-care ultrasonography confirmed pericarditis revealing an organized pericardial effusion, leading to patient hospitalization and initiation of therapy. The importance and acknowledgment of portable and hand-held ultrasonography devices are growing since it enables physicians not only to make a fast and accurate diagnosis but also to access evolution in inpatient and outpatient settings.
Evaluation of quality of life, pharmacoeconomics, and cardiovascular risk in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A prospective, observational study
Authors: Harkhani Jolly M. , Arya Vivek , Marwah Tiven , Tiwari Hemant , Sood Shikha V.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic, metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, negatively affecting multiple body organs and quality of life (QoL).

OBJECTIVES:

The objective of the study was to evaluate QoL and cardiovascular risk in patients of type 2 diabetes using the Modified Diabetes QoL questionnaire (MDQoL17) and the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study Risk Engine (UKPDS-RE), respectively. To evaluate pharmacoeconomics, Incremental Cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) were gained in the same patients.

METHODOLOGY:

A prospective observational study was carried out for 18 months after approval from the institutional review board. Patients of either sex, 18 years and above, attending the medicine outpatient department fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in the study.

RESULTS:

Of 311 patients, 194 (62.38%) were males and 117 (37.62%) were females. The mean age was 58.31 ± 10.63 years. The mean MDQoL-17 score was 68.75 ± 15.65. Male patients had a better QoL score (73.04 ± 14.31) than female patients (61.65 ± 15.24). The mean cost of treatment/patient of diabetes for 1 year in Indian rupees (

JOURNAL/njpt/04.03/02273874-202301030-00005/137FF02/v/2023-12-26T143439Z/r/image-tiff

) is 18462.43 ± 3899. The mean direct and indirect cost/patients in Indian rupees (

JOURNAL/njpt/04.03/02273874-202301030-00005/137FF02/v/2023-12-26T143439Z/r/image-tiff

) for a 1 year are 17651.83 ± 2789.17 and 1091.50 ± 784.41, respectively. Twenty-three antidiabetic regimens were identified for ICER and QALY calculation. Most of these regimens had an upper right and lower left quadrant distribution in cost to QoL incremental ratio. Seventy-seven patients were eligible for UKPDS-RE. Thirty-one (40.26%) had <15% risk (low); 31 (40.26%) had ≥15-<30% risk (medium), and 15 (19.48%) had the highest risk for developing coronary heart disease (CHD) in the next 10 years. Male patients had a higher risk of developing CHD compared to females. The patients who had habit of smoking, glycated hemoglobin >8%, and high-density lipoprotein Cholesterol >40 mg/dl, were at higher risk of developing CHD.

CONCLUSION:

QoL is moderately affected in DM. It predisposes to cardiovascular disease. It adds to the economic burden of the patient.
Active surveillance of adverse events following immunization for coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine (ChAdOx1) at a tertiary care teaching institute in Central India
Authors: Gupta Ashish Vijay , Akkilagunta Sujiv , Dakhale Ganesh N. , Chindhalore Chaitali Ashish , Deshmukh Pradeep R.
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Like other medicinal products, vaccines are not free from adverse reactions. On January 2, 2021, the Drugs Controller General of India granted permission for restricted emergency use of a vaccine, namely COVISHIELD (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine). There was a lack of safety data in the Indian population after restricted emergency approval of the vaccine. The present study addresses the assessment of adverse events following immunizations (AEFIs) among the beneficiaries receiving the COVISHIELD vaccine.

METHODOLOGY:

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted on eligible beneficiaries attending the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination center in our institute. The study was conducted from April 2021 to March 2022.

RESULTS:

Three hundred and thirty participants completed the study, with a response rate of 97.92%. The most frequently reported AEFI after the first dose was injection site pain. No AEFI was reported after 3 months of the second dose of vaccination. After the first dose of vaccination, fever was significant (P = 0.009) in male participants and injection site pain was significantly common (P = 0.015) in participants with no comorbidity. After the second dose of vaccination, injection site pain was significant (P = 0.008) in those participants whose age was ≤60 years, and injection site pain was significant (<0.0001) in those participants who did not have any comorbidity.

CONCLUSION:

The majority of reactions belong to the minor category which includes injection site pain, fever, and myalgia. Thus, the study findings provide inputs for making regulatory decisions for vaccines used for COVID-19.
A study of drug prescribing pattern among pregnant women in the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient department at a rural tertiary care teaching hospital of Maharashtra
Authors: Parker Janhavi Satchidanand , More Pankaj Daulat , Bahekar Satish Eknath
Published: December 2023

CONTEXT:

Antenatal period is the crucial period in women. It is very much essential to know the rationality of drug use and the patients’ knowledge in this aspect as evident from various literature.

AIMS:

The aim was to evaluate the prescribing pattern among pregnant women visiting in the obstetrics and gynecology (OBGY) outpatient departments (OPD) teaching hospital and to appraise their knowledge regarding safe drug use during pregnancy.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:

This was descriptive, cross-sectional, observational drug prescription study in OBGY OPD.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:

In a sample size of 200 pregnant women, socioeconomic parameters were assessed. Prescriptions were analyzed as per the World Health Organization (WHO) core prescribing indicators. The knowledge of the patients regarding safe drug use during pregnancy was assessed through the standard questionnaire.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

Analysis was primarily descriptive with values mainly expressed as percentages using Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS:

Majority of patients were from the rural area depending on the peripheral/primary health services for OBGY conditions. Most of pregnant women were in the age group of 21–25 years. In terms of WHO prescribing indicators, it was evident that prescribing pattern of health-care providers in the study site was irrational. The knowledge of study participants regarding safe drug use during pregnancy was of mixed in terms of defined parameters. The most commonly prescribed classes of drugs in pregnant women were vitamins, followed by iron and calcium preparations.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study helped to conclude the irrational drug prescription pattern and estimation of attitude and awareness among this vulnerable patient group about the drugs and possible risk associated with the medications in this clinically important phase.
Levetiracetam-induced rash and desquamation: An extremely rare adverse drug reaction
Authors: Rathod Jaydeep , Gupta Sapna , Rana Devang , Malhotra Supriya
Published: December 2023

Levetiracetam is a second-generation antiepileptic medication with a diverse array of mechanisms of action. Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs) associated with levetiracetam are infrequently reported in the literature. We present a case of a patient who developed a rash and desquamation due to levetiracetam treatment, which was completely resolved on cessation of the medication. We conduct a comprehensive review of the literature on CADRs associated with levetiracetam and propose a hypothesis regarding the underlying mechanism of this uncommon complication. We also highlight the importance of health-care providers being aware of the full range of potential adverse drug reactions associated with levetiracetam, including the occurrence of rash and desquamation. Prompt discontinuation of therapy is essential to reverse the associated effects. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiology of CADRs associated with levetiracetam and to develop strategies for prevention and management.
Anterior uveitis as the first manifestation of COVID-19 infection
Authors: Gameiro Filho Aluisio Rosa , Godoy Rafael , Tura Jaqueline , da Costa Daniella Socci , de Souza Carlos Eduardo , do Nascimento Salomão Heloísa Moraes
Published: December 2023

The aim of this article was to report a well-documented case of anterior uveitis as the first manifestation of COVID-19. A 27-year-old male patient sought assistance at our emergency room complaining of bilateral painful conjuntival redness associated with photophobia for 3 weeks. These symptoms were followed by fever and chills, with a positive polymerase chain reaction for COVID-19. While his systemic symptoms improved, the ocular complaints remained. A complete panel for uveitis were performed, with negative results, except for COVID-19. The outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 has several implications in our society. Previous reports described ocular manifestations of this condition. The ophthalmologists should be aware of the possibility of COVID-19 when facing a patient with red eye.
Long-term surgical outcomes of unilateral horizontal muscle strabismus surgery in patients with sensory esotropia versus sensory exotropia
Authors: Singh Anupam , Sharma Srishti , Singla Anurag , Kumawat Devesh , Agrawal Ajai , Kumar Barun
Published: December 2023

Purpose:

To compare the long-term postoperative outcomes of unilateral horizontal muscle strabismus surgery in patients with sensory esotropia and sensory exotropia.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 30 patients of sensory deviation who underwent strabismus surgery between January 2017 and December 2020 and had 24 months of follow-up. The patients were classified into Group A (sensory esotropia) and Group B (sensory exotropia) of 15 each. The successful outcome was assigned to a patient with postoperative deviation ≤10 prism dioptres (PD) in primary position.

Results:

The mean age of the sample was 20.87 ± 6.88 years, 18 were male (60%) and 12 were female (40%). The mean preoperative deviation in Group A was 38.8 ± 10.46 PD and in Group B, it was 48.0 ± 5.92 PD. Successful surgical outcome (≤10 PD) at postoperative day 1 was achieved in 29 patients (96.77%). One patient (3.33%) having sensory exotropia was found to have residual deviation >10 PD. These results were maintained at the 6th month and 12th month of follow-up and there was no significant difference between surgical outcomes of both groups (Chi-square test, P = 0.309). At the 24th month follow-up, 23 patients maintained good surgical outcome; all seven patients who had surgically failed outcome (>10 PD) belonged to the exotropia group, which was statistically significant (Chi-square test, P = 0.002). The mean postoperative deviation at the final visit at 24 months of follow-up in Group A was 3.6 ± 2.16 PD and in Group B, it was 10.87 ± 2.82 PD. The long-term outcomes are significantly worse in patients of sensory deviations with organic vision loss and sensory exotropia. Other factors which determined the long-term successful postoperative outcome were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), childhood-onset strabismus, and younger age at surgery.

Conclusions:

Good primary position alignment can be achieved in patients with sensory deviations with single strabismus surgery. Type of deviation, BCVA, age of onset, and age at the time of surgery were the factors associated with successful long-term alignment.
Lacrimal sac compression by an anterior ethmoidal mucocele: A rare case report
Authors: Bhatia Rahul , Gautam Priyanka , Beri Nitika , Sharma Isha , Sahu Pramod Kumar , Das Gopal K
Published: December 2023

The lacrimal sac compression by an anterior ethmoidal mucocele is unusual. The ethmoidal mucocele may masquerade as lacrimal sac mucocele and may lead to disastrous consequences if treated along the lines of lacrimal mucocele. We present a case of an 18-year-old female presenting with a mass lesion over the medial canthal area causing a dilemma in diagnosis.
La comedia cinematográfica aragonesa contemporánea. Claves creativas de sus cineastas y productores/as
Authors: Gascón-Vera Patricia , Zamora-Martínez Patricia , Marta-Lazo Carmen
Published: December 2023

Introducción: La comedia, uno de los géneros cinematográficos con mayor audiencia, sirve como medio para analizar las problemáticas sociales y reflejar la cultura e identidad de los diferentes territorios. Metodología: Esta investigación realiza once entrevistas en profundidad a los directores y productores de siete comedias financiadas con ayudas públicas de la Corporación Aragonesa de Radio y Televisión aragonesa, desde 2013 a 2022. Se aplica un cuestionario semiestructurado que aborda el proceso creativo, las claves narrativas y con la relación cultura e identidad y la financiación. Resultados: Los profesionales de la comedia aragonesa muestran una tendencia marcada por la diversidad creativa, aunque con raíces en la comedia clásica y en vivencias personales que, en un segundo plano, se entrelazan con una crítica social dirigida a atraer al público generalista. Discusión: Para ello, se abordan diversas temáticas con personajes estereotipados, pero novedosos, en los que prevalece la ironía, gracias a actores cómicos como muestra de un humor característico, aunque no prioritario. Además, destacan la preferencia por las localizaciones de Aragón para contribuir a una comedia identitaria que, junto con la promoción y financiación regional, promueve la difusión de la narrativa propia, fomenta el talento local y genera un impacto económico positivo. Conclusiones: Por último, los cineastas expresan la necesidad de desarrollar proyectos más ambiciosos, respaldados por ayudas financieras más cuantiosas e incentivos fiscales que conviertan a Aragón en un verdadero destino cinematográfico.
Comparisons of beta2-microglobulin, apolipoprotein A1, and immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM) detected in the serum and urine from individual cats
Authors: Katagai Michio , Imatomi Haruka , Tshuchida Yashuhiko , Katayama Kinya , Yoshikawa Yasunaga , Orino Koichi
Published: December 2023

Detection of serum and urinary proteins is important for normal conditions, but comparison of individual serum and urine proteins is rarely performed. The aim of this study was to examine beta2-microglobulin (beta2-MG), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I), and immunoglobulins (IgG and IgM) in the serum and urine of cats with chronic kidney disease and lower urinary tract disease (LUTD), in addition to healthy cats. Serum and urine samples were analyzed using sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, followed by immunoblotting for beta2-MG, ApoA-I, IgG, and IgM. The molecular weight of serum beta2-MG was greater than the predicted molecular weight (11,472 Da), and different types of modified beta2-MGs were detected in the urine of healthy and diseased cats including original type in addition to grycocylated and partially digested types. Serum and urinary ApoA-I molecular weights were lower than the predicted molecular weight (28,943 Da), and high levels of urinary ApoA-I were detected in LUTD cats, although urinary ApoA-I was not detected in healthy cats. Under non-reducing conditions, H-chains of urinary IgM pentamers and IgG monomers were detected in healthy cats. These results suggest that urinary beta2-MG is modified in a different manner from serum beta2-MG, urinary ApoA-I is a potential marker of LUTD, and urinary IgM pentamer, IgG monomer, and their H-chains are found after glomerular filtration even in healthy conditions.
Analysis of nutritional risk, skeletal muscle depletion, and lipid metabolism phenotype in acute radiation enteritis
Authors: Ma Chen-Ying , Zhao Jing , Qian Ke-Yan , Xu Zhe , Xu Xiao-Ting , Zhou Ju-Ying
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Radiation enteritis, which often occurs during radiation-induced acute intestinal symptoms (RIAIS), is the most common and important complication during radiotherapy for cervical cancer. RIAIS caused by abdominal and pelvic radiotherapy will affect nutrient intake, digestion, absorption, and metabolism, leading to malnutrition or poorer nutritional status. In patients with malignant tumors, malnutrition can adversely affect the curative effect and response of radiotherapy by reducing radiosensitivity, affecting the precision of radiotherapy placement and increasing the incidence of radiotherapy-related adverse reactions.

AIM

To analyze nutritional risk, skeletal muscle depletion, and lipid metabolism phenotype in acute radiation enteritis.

METHODS

Fifty patients with cervical cancer received external beam radiotherapy, and 15 patients received brachytherapy after external beam radiotherapy. Body weight, body composition parameters, nutritional risk screening (NRS) 2002 score, and blood biochemical indices of patients with cervical cancer during periradiation were tested by a one-way repeated measures analysis of variance. Metabolomics analysis was used to identify characteristic lipid metabolism pathways. Clinical factors that affect linoleic acid changes were screened using the generalized evaluation equation.

RESULTS

Among the 50 patients, 37 had RIAIS, including 34 patients with grade 1-2 RIAIS and 3 patients with grade 3 RIAIS. The NRS 2002 score of patients who underwent cervical cancer radiotherapy continued to increase during the periradiation period, and 42 patients who underwent cancer radiotherapy had nutritional deficits (NRS 2002 score ≥ 3 points) at the end of radiotherapy. Correlation analyses revealed that body weight and body mass index changes were closely associated with body fat content (R 2 = 0.64/0.51). The results of the univariate analysis showed that radiotherapy time, percentage reduction of serum albumin, and percentage reduction of serum prealbumin were the key factors affecting skeletal muscle exhaustion (P < 0.05). Metabolomic analysis of fecal supernatants of cervical cancer patients during the periradiation period revealed the involvement of linoleic acid, cholic acid, arachidonic acid, and N-acetyl-L-benzene alanine in the metabolic pathway of linoleic acid.

CONCLUSION

Cervical cancer radiotherapy patients faced nutritional risks, decreased serum albumin synthesis, and increased risk of skeletal muscle exhaustion. Linoleic acid was a biomarker of high nutritional risk.
Prognostic role of serum carcinoembryonic antigen in patients receiving liver resection for colorectal cancer liver metastasis: A meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Fan , Huang Cheng-Wen , Tang Zhi-Hong , Lu Shao-Long , Bai Tao , Huang Qing , Li Xing-Zhi , Zhang Bin , Wu Fei-Xiang
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a broad-spectrum tumor marker for differential diagnosis, monitoring, and response assessment of a variety of malignancies.

AIM

To evaluate whether serum CEA could predict the prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM) before and after liver resection (LR).

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science were systematically searched to retrieve literature, with a search cut-off date of February 27, 2023. Articles were strictly screened for inclusion according to pre-specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were pooled and analyzed using Stata 16.0.

RESULTS

This meta-analysis included 36 studies involving a total of 11143 CRCLM patients. The results showed that a high pre-LR serum CEA level was correlated with poor overall survival (OS) [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.49-1.75, P < 0.001] and recurrence-free survival (HR = 1.27, 95%CI: 1.11-1.45, P < 0.001) in CRCLM patients. A high post-LR serum CEA level predicted poor OS (HR = 2.66, 95%CI: 2.10-3.38, P < 0.001). A comparison by treatment modality, analysis modality, patient source, and cutoff-value showed that overall, high preoperative and postoperative serum CEA levels remained correlated with a poor prognosis.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that high pre-LR and post-LR serum CEA levels were significantly correlated with a poor prognosis in CRCLM patients.
Removal of a large rectal polyp with endoscopic submucosal dissection-trans-anal rectoscopic assisted minimally invasive surgery hybrid technique: A case report
Authors: Polese Lino
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) can be used for the en-bloc removal of superficial rectal lesions; however, the lack of a traction system makes the procedure long and difficult in the presence of extensive lesions.

CASE SUMMARY

A large polyp occupying 2/3 of the rectal circumference and extending 5 cm in length was removed by ESD with the help of laparoscopic forceps introduced via trans-anal rectoscopic assisted minimally invasive surgery, a disposable platform designed to aid in transanal minimally invasive surgery. Traction of the polyp by forceps during the operation was dynamic, and applied at various points and in various directions. The polyp was removed en-blo c without complications in 1 h and 55 min. A sigmoidoscopy performed 50 d later showed normal healing without polyp recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The technique presented here could overcome the issues caused by lack of traction during ESD for rectal lesions.
A study on the Regional Revitalization Plan Utilizing Craft Design Center Program
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Cho Wan Hee
Published: December 2023

The craft design industry refers to tangible and intangible industries and contents that create economic added value by embodying cultural and artistic elements. It has been developed based on the traditional culture of the country and region. This study aims to suggest ways to create cultural values and revitalize local communities by utilizing these craft design activities. Currently, local communities have undergone rapid industrialization and urbanization due to rapid economic development and rapid growth, and these are expressed as urban environmental problems such as changes in social structure, reduction of exchange, and absence of community activities. In particular, after COVID-19, the concept of community has declined, and life centered on social relations is changing. Therefore, this study analyzes prior research on the operating system of the Crafts Center, which operates craft design programs, and presents a systematic activation plan focusing on the support direction and operation program. This is significant in contributing to the improvement of the quality of life of isolated or unstable local members while playing a role in raising awareness of the cultural industry through craft design and expanding the network of local communities.
A study on the UX/UI Design Education Program Using PBL in Specialized High School
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Kim Sang Bae , Nam Won Suk
Published: December 2023

In the Fourth Industrial Revolution, digital technology is present and utilized in every aspect of our lives. Many businesses and contents have been moved to screens through digitalization. However, even if the information and services provided to users through screens are of high quality, if they are complex and unfamiliar to users, their value is bound to decrease, so creative thinking and problem-solving skills are needed to provide users with optimal experiences. However, there are currently insufficient courses in specialized high schools compared to the need for UX/UI design education. Therefore, this study proposes a UX/UI design education program using PBL to cultivate problem-solving skills for third-year students in specialized high schools and analyzes its effectiveness. As a research method, we examined PBL and UX/UI design and identified the current status of UX/UI design education to lay the foundation for the study. Based on this, we designed a 'UX/UI design education program using PBL' consisting of a total of six stages, and conducted the class through a teaching plan. The overall satisfaction level of the class was 4.68 through the post-class satisfaction survey, which verified the effectiveness of the program.
Effect of Performance Using Extended Reality (XR) Elements on Engagement: Focusing on Performance Experience
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Lee Yoo Seok , Kim Tai Wan
Published: December 2023

This study examined the impact of extended reality (XR) performance experiences on audience engagement. The research involved three stages: identifying subject characteristics, XR performance factors, performance experience, and engagement factors through statistical analysis. Reliability and validity analyses were performed to assess measurement items, followed by a structural equation model to analyze the relationships between XR performance, performance experience, and engagement factors. The results showed that attractiveness and interaction positively influenced performance experience for the entire group. In the high-performance experience group, identity, attractiveness, interaction, and engagement had a positive impact. In the low-performance experience group, interaction and engagement positively affected the audience. This highlights the importance of interaction in XR performances, which can enhance audience experience. Establishing a systematic connection between reality factors and performance service quality is crucial for developing non-face-to-face performance services using virtual reality and content technology. Incorporating elements like identity, attractiveness, novelty, and particularly interaction in XR performances can improve the quality of the audience's experience, offering insights for innovation and future developments in the field of extended reality performance and non-face-to-face performance services.
You Actually Look Twice At it (YALTAi): using an object detection approach instead of region segmentation within the Kraken engine
Authors: Clérice Thibault
Published: December 2023

Layout Analysis (the identification of zones and their classification) is the first step along line segmentation in Optical Character Recognition and similar tasks. The ability of identifying main body of text from marginal text or running titles makes the difference between extracting the work full text of a digitized book and noisy outputs. We show that most segmenters focus on pixel classification and that polygonization of this output has not been used as a target for the latest competition on historical document (ICDAR 2017 and onwards), despite being the focus in the early 2010s. We propose to shift, for efficiency, the task from a pixel classification-based polygonization to an object detection using isothetic rectangles. We compare the output of Kraken and YOLOv5 in terms of segmentation and show that the later severely outperforms the first on small datasets (1110 samples and below). We release two datasets for training and evaluation on historical documents as well as a new package, YALTAi, which injects YOLOv5 in the segmentation pipeline of Kraken 4.1.