bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helicopter Flight Test of the Obscurant Penetrating Autosynchronous Lidar (OPAL) in Degraded Visual Environments: Part II - See-through Capability Assessment
Authors:   DRDC Valcartier, Roy Gilles ,   Lidar Consultant, Cao Xiaoying , Roy Simon
Published: October 2024

In support to the Directorate of Technical Airworthiness and Engineering Support (DTAES-6) of Canada's Department of National Defence (DND), DRDC Valcartier is currently evaluating the Obscurant Penetrating Autosynchronous Lidar (OPAL) developed by Neptec Technologies Corp. This sensor is targeted at supporting rotary-wing aircraft operating in degraded visual environments (DVE) during critical flight phases (i.e. take-off and landing). OPAL consists of a scanning pulsed lidar that generates 3D images of obstacles on the landing zone that are engulfed in an obscurant cloud. The sensor performance evaluation study is conducted in three phases under the MATPILA project (Multipurpose airborne 3D polarimetric imaging ladar assessment). Phase I focused on acquiring knowledge on brownout and whiteout phenomenologies and on defining proper testing conditions and performance metrics for Phase II. Phase II aimed at quantifying the sensor see-through capability as a function of optical depth and target reflectivity. Phase III consisted of in-flight validation trials. This paper presents Phase I to III with an emphasis on control environment test and on the in-flight validation trials.
Aircraft Survivability Rating
Authors:   Sikorsky, Kaye Jordan ,   Aviation Applied Technology Directorate, Robeson Mark , Bordick Nathaniel
Published: October 2024

Sikorsky Aircraft and the US Army's Aviation Development Directorate - Aviation Applied Technology Directorate (ADD–AATD), as part of the co-funded Combat Tempered Aircraft Demonstration (CTPD), have developed a new methodology to rate aircraft survivability in a hostile environment. The new rating system incorporates combat reports to expand upon current vulnerability analyses used to evaluate an aircraft's ability to survive a hostile attack. The current method of evaluating an aircraft only takes into account one threat per analysis and does not accommodate combat statistics for attack outcomes. The new methodology uses actual aircraft combat data to make the analysis inclusive of multiple threats and the effects of combat on aircraft. This new method of analysis is not only applicable to fielded aircraft, but can also be applied to future aircraft and the development of survivability requirements. It improves the design process for developmental aircraft by considering what threats are expected to be encountered, while still applying the benefits from traditional vulnerability analyses.
On The Role of Cable Curvature in Rotorcraft-based Tow Operations for Submerged Loads
Authors:   University of Maryland, Sridharan Ananth , Celi Roberto
Published: October 2024

This paper discusses mathematical modeling of helicopters towing loads that are submerged in water. Special attention is paid to the role of cable hydrodynamics and effects of curvature. Analytical predictions for a four-bladed conventional utility helicopter towing a representative load with fins for passive stabilization and depth control are shown for steady and level forward and turning flight conditions. As the lengths of the cable increase, the total drag from the tow cable is comparable to that on the submerged load and cannot be ignored. The role of hydrodynamic fairings is critical for reducing rotor power requirements. In turning flight, drag on the cable causes the towed body to turn with a radius that is smaller than the helicopter, and asymptotes to the center of the turn with increasing turn rate. Engine power may be limited by straight-line tow speeds, and not the peak turn rate.
Engine Corrosion and Corrosion Prevention
Authors:   Pratt & Whitney Canada, Pobjoy Robert
Published: October 2024

Corrosion and corrosion prevention all have maintenance challenges and associated costs. The cost of preventative maintenance (which includes equipment), the cost of repair/overhaul and the potential cost of engine component mechanical breakdown that is due to corrosion. Ultimately, the benefits of having an intimate understanding of how corrosion occurs can lead to the correct decision making when participating in corrosion prevention measures. This paper will focus on the different types of operating environment, the types of internal and external corrosion, the materials and coatings used, the documented effects of good versus poor maintenance practices and the dispelling of some of the myths regarding maintenance philosophies in the different operational environments.
Advanced Approaches to Helicopter Engine System Dynamics
Authors:   Pratt and Whitney Canada, Ho Eric
Published: October 2024

The advancement in the modelling and analysis of the helicopter/engine as a system can help to better understanding the vibrations and loads in the overall structure. The linear and rotor induced non-linear dynamic response of the helicopter coupling with its gas turbine engines under the main gear box vibration, engine rotor unbalance, inadvertent release of rotating mass and foreign object ingestion must be considered in the design of the structures. Custom-developed and commercially available tools combined together as a total system prediction process can more accurately evaluate overall structural vibrations and dynamic responses. The analysis also takes into consideration the material non-linearity, large deformation and damping. The fidelity of the prediction system is greatly enhanced by calibration with helicopter and engine test data. As a result, the prediction of structural loads and vibrations at the mount interfaces, engine casings and helicopter structures are made available up-front in the design cycle to help critical structural evaluations. The advancement of a system prediction method is also the prerequisite to address overall helicopter/engine safety and reliability, and to reduce noise.
CFD Modelling of Gas Turbine Combustor Post-Shutdown: Heat Soak-Back Phenomenon
Authors:   Laval University, Ghazlani Mohamed-Ali ,   Pratt and Whitney Canada, Davenport Nigel , Champlain Alain , Paquet Bernard , Kalla Smail
Published: October 2024

Heat soak-back to engine components on shutdown, due to the thermal inertia of heated turbine parts, has the potential to cause deposits to build up in fuel injectors which can over time block the injectors. Blocked or partially blocked injectors must then be removed from the engine, inspected and sent for cleaning. The potential for injector blockage on helicopter engines in particular is elevated due to the generally cramped engine compartments which trap heat, and also to the helicopter engine's unique operating characteristics that allow for a very short time interval between maximum power settings and shutdown. Field Inspection intervals for helicopter engine injectors thus tend to be the shortest of any engine component, and such inspections can prove to be a significant driver of engine maintenance costs. Thus, an understanding of the physics of the heat soak-back processes involved would provide for possible design improvements, changes in engine operation and more proactive maintenance actions all aiming at reducing operating costs.
A 3D CFD simulation is carried out in order to predict the thermal behaviour and magnitude of heat soak-back and its potential consequence on the fuel delivery system. The ANSYS FLUENT™ commercial code is used for the numerical calculations of the shutdown and post shutdown thermal conditions in a basic can combustor. Additional thermal masses with typical turbine weight/surface ratio are added downstream of the combustor in order to compensate for the lack of turbine blades/confinement rings, which acquire most of the heat during gas turbine steady operation. A full 360° model is used to develop a detailed mesh. A steady state combustion simulation is performed initially and followed by a transient simulation, to allow thermal build-up (at steady state) and transient cooling of solid parts (thermal inertia) afterwards. The numerical model is to be validated by experiment.
Vehicle-Level Optimization of Rotorcraft Propulsion Systems
Authors:   AVID LLC, Ohanian O. , Gelhausen Paul , Dunn Christopher , Sonnenburg Christian , Entsminger Adam
Published: October 2024

The authors have developed a new design and optimization framework to perform conceptual design studies in order to improve the fuel-efficiency of rotorcraft. The framework ties together the state-of-the-art NASA propulsion modeling program, NPSS, and NASA's rotorcraft modeling tool, NDARC. The OpenMDAO multidisciplinary design, analysis, and optimization toolset was used to integrate these two analysis codes. The NPSS and NDARC test-case models have been validated against experimental data and have shown good agreement. In an initial study, advanced technology engines have been evaluated for a search and rescue mission. All engines evaluated showed significant increases in rotorcraft performance in the BK-117 helicopter model, as compared to the baseline engine. An optimized simple cycle engine (low weight and size) and a recuperated engine performed best in the analysis. If minimizing fuel usage for environmental concerns is the key objective, then the recuperated engine is the superior choice. To perform the same search and rescue mission as the baseline BK-117, roughly a 50% fuel savings is predicted.
Evaluation of Rotor Structural Characteristics Based On Whirl Tower Tests
Authors:   TURKISH AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES INC., TURSUN Gokhan , ERGUL Betul , ULU Yusuf
Published: October 2024

Robust and reliable structural design necessitates numerous tests for rotor blades and rotor heads. The only way to be sure regarding analysis methods containing many assumptions and unknowns is to conduct dedicated tests simulating the operational case as close as possible. Within this context, a series of test activities have been planned so as to provide structural integrity verification of rotor system. In order to evaluate structural and aeromechanical performance of the rotor system, a Whirl Tower is designed and manufactured indigenously in TAI. In this study, an assessment on Whirl Tower test of full scale teetering rotor system including 3m composite rotor blades is carried out in consideration of structural integrity. Strain and various load data is collected during the tests and results are compared with finite element model in order to investigate blade structural integrity and performance. Also; utilized numerical methodology is verified by this comparison. Results showed that, blade structural performance is in expected range, and finite element analysis successfully predicts strains.
Scaling Effects in Guidance Systems and their Benchmarking: the Agility Scale Ratio
Authors:   University of Minnesota, Mettler Berenice , Verma Abhishek
Published: October 2024

Scaling effects - i.e., the relationship between the aircrafts maneuvering capabilities and the environment scale characteristics - are expected to play an important role in how the performance of a guidance system plays out. These effects are most significant for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) since these vehicles can be built in a much broader range of scales than manned vehicles. This paper investigates how scaling effects should be accounted for in the evaluation of guidance performance. It proposes a non-dimensional quantity call the agility scale ratio (ASR). This quantity is similar to the Reynolds number or the Froude number and captures the relationship between vehicle scale and maneuverability and the scale characteristics of the environment. Investigating guidance performance from a non-dimensional perspective can also provide important insights into how agile vehicles interact with complex environments. The paper presents results from examples motivated by recent work in guidance systems benchmarking.
Uses of simulation during COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review
Authors: Mormando Giulia , Costantini Ilaria , Paganini Matteo , Vittadello Anna , Pinello Cristian , Tiozzo Giulia , Giglia Marco , Frigo Martina , Pons Sofia , Savino Sandro , Navalesi Paolo , Ingrassia Pier Luigi
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Background: Some experts have made suggestions on how to use simulation during the pandemic, and simulation activities were carried out observing COVID-19 restrictions to improve technical and non-technical skills in health professionals. A number of papers have been published detailing the use of simulation during this period, but it is not clear for this reason, through a retrospective literature review, we analyzed studies published during the pandemic period to assess how simulation was used during this historical period.
Methods: Retrospective literature review.
Results: The search generated 11,375 records. After removing duplicates, 5431 studies were screened. Of the 643 eligible full-texts, 221 were excluded. A total of 422 articles met the inclusion criteria. Half of the 422 included studies were carried out specifically for COVID-19 (211), while 152 (36%) were performed during the pandemic but for other reasons. Analysis showed that simulation was used during the pandemic, with clear educational and research objectives. Most of the included studies dealt with COVID-19, focusing on high-acuity and critical scenarios but also including technical and non-technical skills.
Conclusion: The experience gained with both “COVID-related” and “During COVID” studies could be applied to other settings in case of urgent training needed in case of disasters and to tailor simulation courses to retain technical skills.
Clinical trials of drugs: Current state of the regulatory problem and proposals for reform
Authors: Bompiani Adriano
Published: October 2024

Not available.
Family planning in Taranto
Authors: De Benedetto Francesco
Published: October 2024

The aim of the investigation carried out in Taranto was to ascertain how birth control was understood and practised in one of the most densely populated centres in the Mezzogiorno, recently invested by a massive industrialisation process.
Anthropological-moral problems of sexual identity
Authors: Spinsanti Sandro
Published: October 2024

Not available.
Connotation and qualities of the Buddhist culture of Grand Canal
Authors: Qiu Bosen , Lang Di
Published: October 2024

The Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal arises from the interaction and dynamic interplay between Grand Canal culture and Buddhist culture. This cultural phenomenon is not merely a simple superimposition of two elements; rather, it represents a unique cultural form that has evolved historically through the intersection of temporal and spatial dimensions. Its connotations can be understood from multiple perspectives, including the ephemerality of time, the dispersion of space, the plurality of types and the intermingling of subject and object. The Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal developed along both sides of the canal and has been historically deposited, embodying an amalgamation of reality and history. Therefore, the study of this culture should not be confined to specific temporal or spatial contexts but should encompass a multidimensional and expansive cultural exploration centred on the Grand Canal. By examining the connection between human excellence and the flow of water within this context, the cultural characteristics of the Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal extend into the cultural flow between the north and south. Here, Buddhist culture serves as the connecting thread, linking, communicating and integrating the spiritual worlds of people across different regions. The scope of research primarily encompasses diverse fields such as Buddhist history, Buddhist thought, cultural relics, social folklore, literature and art.Contribution: This paper emphasises that an in-depth understanding of the connotations and qualities of the Buddhist culture of the Grand Canal is one of the most important ways to correctly understand the culture of the Grand Canal, especially the cross-culture of the Grand Canal and Buddhism, and points out the way in which and the scope of the research should be carried out.
The relationship between sustainability and financial performance of South African companies
Authors: Delport Inge , Oberholzer Merwe , Van Rooyen Surika
Published: October 2024

Orientation: Environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance remains crucial information required by stakeholders as they are interested in monitoring whether companies contribute to sustainability or not.Research purpose: The study’s purpose was to determine how the sample companies scored on the three pillars of ESG performance and to determine the relationship between ESG scores and the financial performance of selected South African listed companies, with special reference to the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on that relationship.Motivation for the study: Because of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, companies tend to focus on their ESG-impact, resulting in them investing in sustainable operations.Research approach/design and method: Linear mixed-effect regression analysis models were developed to determine the relationship between ESG scores and financial performance. The sample consisted of 104 companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) from 2017 to 2022.Main findings: We found that companies do not equitably score on the ESG performance pillars. We also found the following significant relationships: (1) Return on equity (ROE) positively impacts governance performance, (2) ESG positively impacts Tobin’s Q and (3) governance performance positively impacts ROE. Furthermore, the results show that sustainability and financial performance before and after COVID-19 are mainly not meaningful.Practical/managerial implications: New insights are revealed in the interests of shareholders, potential investors and company management regarding how to interpret the relationship between ESG pillars and financial ratios.Contribution/value-add: We contribute to the theory as a conceptual framework was developed to interpret the results within the shareholder’s theory.
Epidural Hematoma Following Lumbar Puncture in a Child with Pycnodysostosis and Intracranial Hypertension: A Case Report
Authors: Alashkar Abdulrahman H. , Aljohani Hani
Published: October 2024

Pycnodysostosis (PDO) is a rare genetic skeletal dysplasia. Due to its rarity and clinical heterogenicity, information about its uncommon features and complications is limited. One such complication is intracranial hypertension (IH), which can be managed acutely through lumbar drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In this report, we present the case of a 12-year-old boy with known PDO and IH who presented with worsening headache and dizziness and underwent a therapeutic lumbar puncture (LP). Two days after the LP, he experienced increasing headache and nausea. A brain computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a left frontal epidural hematoma (EDH). He was managed expectantly, and a follow-up CT scan confirmed hematoma resolution. This case presents IH as a rare complication of PDO and presents an instance where an EDH developed following an LP, which is a rare occurrence. We conclude that if LP is considered for such patients, physicians should be vigilant for the possible occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage.
Assessment of post-COVID-19 vaccination neutralizing antibodies in kidney transplant and hemodialysis patients versus the general population
Authors: Sarhan Iman I. , Abdelgawad Mostafa A.N. , Emara Ahmed A. , Elkader Moaaz A.A. , Mohamed Ahmed F.
Published: October 2024

Background

Patients receiving hemodialysis (HD) and kidney transplant recipients are immunocompromised populations prioritized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, however, there were few clinical trials with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mRNA vaccine responses. Compared with controls, individuals with chronic kidney disease and those on immunosuppressants have lower antibody titers and rates of seroconversion after vaccination. There is a lack of data on their humoral response to COVID-19 immunization. To study the effect of different types of available COVID-19 vaccines in Egypt (AstraZeneca, Sinopharm, Pfizer/BioNTech, and Sputnik) on neutralizing antibodies against COVID-19 in HD and kidney transplantation patients compared with the healthy population.

Patients and methods

A total of 84 participants; 28 HD patients, 28 kidney transplant recipients, and 28 healthy medical staff members were recruited to test the serological reaction. Six months following the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, we evaluated antibody titers against SARS-CoV-2 by Elecsys Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S (Roch) and collected data from the patients, including their comorbidities and the length of time since their kidney transplant.

Results

All the study groups were comparable as regards age, sex, and BMI, however, hemoglobin was significantly higher in the control group. Antibody response to vaccination was strongest in the control group (100%), followed by HD patients (85%), with transplant recipients showing a significantly weaker response (60%). The Pfizer vaccine generated higher neutralizing antibody levels compared with other vaccines in this study. Yet, the difference was not statistically significant. Additionally, no significant difference in response between the different vaccine types. the transplant group displayed significantly lower levels compared with the control group (P<0.001) and a trend towards lower levels compared with the dialysis group (P=0.06).

Conclusion

Our study found that all tested vaccines generated comparable levels of neutralizing antibodies in healthy individuals and those with chronic kidney disease (dialysis patients). While 85% of dialysis patients achieved seroconversion (positive antibody test) similar to the healthy control group, only 60% of kidney transplant recipients did. the duration post-transplant may be associated with higher rate of seroconversion. the transplant group displayed lower levels of antibodies compared with the control and the dialysis group which suggests a weaker immune response in transplant patients.
Evaluation of salivary biomarker interleukin-6 in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders − A comparative cross-sectional South Indian study
Authors: Chundru Venkata Naga Sirisha , Madhavan R Nirmal , Chintala Lalitha , Boyapati Ramanarayana , Srikar Meka
Published: October 2024

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) accounts for nearly 90% of oral malignancies and represents a major global health care problem. It is often preceded by oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD). Although regular clinical examination forms the backbone for oral cancer screening, subtle lesions go unnoticed and there is a need for more sensitive and specific molecular biomarkers in mass screening of population. Salivary proteomics offer an attractive alternative to serum and tissue testing.

Aims:

To find the diagnostic utility of salivary interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the differential diagnosis of OSCC, OPMD from healthy controls.

Study Design:

In vivo study.

Methods:

After approval from the Institutional Review Board, unstimulated whole saliva was collected from 90 subjects, 30 in each group of OSCC, OPMD and controls after ethical clearance. Salivary IL-6 was measured by ELISA, and the results were statistically analysed.

Results:

Significant difference in salivary IL-6 was seen between OSCC, OPMD and controls. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed the highest area under a curve of 0.982 in distinguishing OSCC from controls. It showed a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 100% at a cut-off value of 33.4 pg/mL (P = 0.000). Moderately differentiated OSCC (MDSCC) showed a significant increase in salivary IL-6 concentration compared to well-differentiated OSCC (WDSCC).

Conclusion:

Results of the present study showed strong predictive power of salivary IL-6 in distinguishing OSCC from controls. Its levels also increased with tumor aggressiveness from WDSCC to MDSCC. Thus, salivary IL-6 could have a diagnostic and/or prognostic significance in identifying high-risk groups in mass screening of the population.
A rare case of an aggressive polymorphous adenocarcinoma of minor salivary gland in the retro-maxilla
Authors: Saha Mehul , Kudva Adarsh , Sharma Swati , Singh Radhika
Published: October 2024

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma (PAC) is a low-grade malignant tumour of minor salivary glands of the oral cavity, which rarely presents with invasive features. Low metastatic and excellent survival rates are some of its favorable features. A 36-year-old woman reported with swelling, pain, and mobility of teeth in the left upper inner cheek region. Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed a large, lobulated, heterogenous mass in the left retro-maxillary region with a few enlarged left cervical lymph nodes (levels IB and II). After surgery, the final histopathology report gave a definitive diagnosis of PAC with certain invasive characteristics – perineural invasion, infiltration into skeletal muscle, and depth of invasion of 10 mm, which recurred in a different location 1.5 years later. A few predictable features of PAC include incidence in elderly women, asymptomatic presentation, occurrence in the posterior hard of soft palate, very low incidence of nodal or distant metastases, perineural spread, skeletal muscle infiltration, and low rates of recurrence with good survival outcomes. However, in our case, the patient appeared to present with a relatively aggressive form of PAC, considering her young age, symptomatic presentation, uncommon anatomic location in the retro-maxilla, cervical nodal metastasis, perineural and skeletal muscle infiltration, and local recurrence within a short period. Although PAC is a low-grade tumour with excellent prognosis, it may occasionally present with invasive characteristics, and early diagnosis and prompt management with strict adherence to post-operative regimens and follow-up is of prime importance to prevent any untoward outcomes.
Quantitative correlation of serum and salivary trace elements in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders: An institution-based biochemical analysis
Authors: Samadi Fahad M. , Sivakumar N. , Sonam Manjari , Sharma Pooja , Suhail Shaista , Ahmad Mohammad Kaleem
Published: October 2024

Background:

Trace elements are the important components that play a crucial role in various functions of the human body at cellular and molecular levels. Considering the role of the trace elements in precancerous and cancerous conditions, estimation of their levels in these conditions could aid in understanding the disease process and progression. The purpose of this study is to determine the alteration in salivary electrolyte concentration of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients to correlate the variations with the severity and biological behaviour.

Material and Method:

A total of 70 subjects were included in this study, and they were divided into three groups: patients with OSCC (30), OPMDs (30) and apparently healthy individuals (10). An informed consent was obtained, following which blood and saliva samples were collected from the participants. Salivary and serum levels of copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, calcium and magnesium were measured and compared between the groups.

Results:

The levels of biochemical elements in both serum and saliva were in perfect correlation. The amount of all the estimated metallic ions was found to be significantly (P 0.001) increased in OSCC followed by OPMDs and normal mucosa. The levels of copper, cadmium and magnesium were gradually increased in increasing grades of OSCC (P 0.001).

Conclusion:

Salivary trace element levels could possibly have diagnostic significance in the early evaluation of OPMDs and OSCC as well. Increased levels of these elements might be used as a marker of disease progression and predictor of prognosis.
Clear cell myoepithelioma of palate: A rare case report with brief review of literature
Authors: Viswanathan Vidya , Londhe Mangesh , Gurwale Sushama , Buch Archana
Published: October 2024

Myoepitheliomas are very rare salivary gland neoplasms seen mainly in the major salivary glands (~40%) followed by minor salivary glands (~21%). Palatal myoepitheliomas are rare, with clear cell types being even rarer. Due to the rarity of this tumor, it lacks specific features that are diagnostic in cytology. Histopathology, along with immunohistochemistry, is needed for its confirmative diagnosis. We present a 28-year-old female with slow-growing, painless palatal swelling diagnosed as clear cell myoepithelioma on histopathology and immunohistochemistry.
Agenesis of all premolars – the first reported case
Authors: Chalakkal Paul , Pires Vernon , Ramanathan Ramya , Rangnekar Nidhi
Published: October 2024

The agenesis of teeth is the most common developmental anomaly in humans. Although third molars, mandibular second premolars, maxillary lateral incisors and maxillary second premolars are frequently found to be missing, the absence of all premolars has never been reported in the literature. This case report highlights the first-ever case of the complete agenesis of premolars in a 10-year-old male patient. It also discusses related definitions; commonly missing teeth and their prevalence; associated dental and skeletal features; genetic, drug-related and pathogenic etiological factors; and considerations for the future management of such cases.
QuPath for automated analysis of digital images of oral epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Belaldavar Chetan , Angadi Punnya V. , Mudenagudi Uma
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

Grading of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) has been plagued with intra-observer and inter-observer variations. To overcome this subjectivity, a more objective digital image analysis is obligatory using computer-aided software. The use of open-source software like QuPath, which is a new bio-image evaluation software program, may fulfil this growing need in virtual pathology. This study used the QuPath software for automatic analysis of morphometric parameters in hematoxylin and eosin (H and E)-stained digital images of oral epithelial dysplasia.

Methodology:

150 H and E digital images of varying grades of OED captured under 40x magnification were processed using QuPath software for automatic analysis of cellular and nuclear parameters.

Results:

The parameters that showed statistical significance included nuclear hematoxylin OD, nuclear eosin OD, cellular hematoxylin OD, cellular eosin OD, cytoplasm hematoxylin OD, and cytoplasmic eosin OD (P < 0.05), while none of the other parameters showed statistically significant differences. A prediction accuracy of 76%, 74%, and 70% for mild, moderate, and severe dysplasia was obtained, respectively.

Conclusion:

The quantitative results outlined in this paper are encouraging to indicate that the use of this technique may improve the diagnostic reliability of OED. Morphometric analysis of OED using Qupath software can be fast and reproducible and can be quantitated automatically.
Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD): A case report
Authors: Suryawanshi Hema , Sahu Manisha , Singh Priyambada
Published: October 2024

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral highly contagious disease affecting mostly infants and children and occasionally adults. It has become a significant public health problem because of frequent outbreaks and rise in its incidence, severity and fatal complications in Southeast Asian countries in the last few decades. India had experienced a sudden resurgence of HFMD recently in the year 2022. The clinical course of HFMD is mainly mild and self-limiting with recovery within 1–2 weeks, but in few patient’s, severe form of infection has been reported. In this report, we present the case of a 4-year-old boy presenting with HFMD.
Modified Cajal’s trichrome stain in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Srinidhi S S Vidya , Murugesan Ambika , Balakrishnan Sekar , Ramesh Maya , Varrshana V , Jacob Mathew
Published: October 2024

Background:

Modified Cajal’s trichrome stain (MCTS) is a good differential stain that allows one to visibly distinguish between connective tissue and epithelial elements with different tonalities of colour.

Aim:

Our study aims to evaluate and analyse the effectiveness of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using MCTS.

Materials and Methods:

A study was conducted retrospectively with 30 tissue blocks embedded in paraffin from cases of OSCC that have been confirmed by histopathology. Both standard haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and MCTS were applied to each section. Then all the sections were analysed by two observers for nucleus cytoplasmic intensity, break in the basement membrane, and advancing front of the tumour, muscle, and surrounding stroma. The efficacy of the stain was assessed and was graded as 1, poor; 2, fair; and 3, good based on the staining intensity.

Statistical Analysis:

The parameters were graded for H&E and modified Cajal’s stain. The results were subjected to the Chi-square test.

Result:

The above-mentioned parameters analysed showed a uniformly significant P value of 0.001 for comparing modified Cajal’s trichrome stain to H&E stain. Measurement of the agreement was done based on Kappa statistics between two observers, and the values for each expression show that there was good agreement between the two for all the parameters.

Conclusion:

MCTS can also be used as a diagnostic aid to pathologists for better distinction of cellular components and easier identification, thereby solving difficulties in diagnosis at earlier stages.
Mutational analysis of BRAFV600E in a case of sialadenoma papilliferum of oral cavity
Authors: Jot Kiran , Sharath Reddipalli , Bhutia Ongkila , Surya Varun
Published: October 2024

This case report presents a rare benign salivary gland tumour called sialadenoma papilliferum. It comprises 3 to 5% of head and neck tumours and about 1% of all minor salivary gland tumours. The focus is on discussing the BRAFV600E mutation analysis and exploring its clinical implications, along with delving into the histopathological differentials. We documented a 73-year-old male, who had a white patch in the left retromolar trigone region for 6 months. The tumour was excised with a clinical diagnosis of verrucous lesion. Microscopic examination revealed exophytic hyperplastic parakeratotic stratified squamous epithelium and endophytic ductal papillary proliferation. The BRAFV600E mutation was present in the patient. Subsequent regular follow-ups were conducted, revealing no recurrence of the condition. This case underscores the pivotal role of BRAFV600E analysis as an invaluable diagnostic tool when confronted with the intricacies of intraoral salivary gland neoplasms.
A retrospective study at a tertiary care center in North India
Authors: Gupta Poonam , Srivastava Anubha , Kumar Sujit , Pandey Siddhartha , Goyal Virey Vireshwr
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

To describe epidemiological, clinical characteristics and comorbidities among deceased patients with COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Retrospective study among deceased patients with COVID-19 infection at SRN Hospital MLN Medical College a Tertiary Care Centre for COVID 19, Prayagraj (U. P) India. The study included patients who succumbed to COVID-19 between May 5, 2020 and February 8, 2021.

RESULTS:

A total of 497 patients were taken in the study. Mean age was 59.07 years with majority of them being males 350 (71%) and 147 (29%) females. The mean duration of illness was 5.9 days. The most common symptoms were breathlessness 472 (94.9%) and fever 383 (77%). Diabetes (48%) and hypertension (42%) were the most common comorbidities among the deceased. At the time of presentation, 328 (66%) patients had heart rate >100/min and 461 (92.8%) patients had respiratory rate >24/min. Mean oxygen saturation was 69%. The mean duration of hospitalisation is 4.7 days.

CONCLUSION:

Majority of the patients who contracted the illness and died due to COVID-19 were elderly, males with diabetes and hypertension. At the time of presentation, the majority had respiratory distress of acute onset. Elderly population with comorbidities are more prone to disease and have higher chances of respiratory failure and death.
Beneficial effects of Indo-Mediterranean type of diets, for double burden of diseases
Authors: Singh Ram Bir , Watanabe Shaw , Isaza Adrian , Chakravorty Saibal , Fatima Ghizal , Patel Vikas
Published: October 2024

The concept of Indo-Mediterranean type of diets was developed by Singh et al. based on Indian Experiment of Infarct Survival published in 1992, which was confirmed by a landmark study from France by De Lorgeril et al., who demonstrated that eating alpha-linolenic acid rich Mediterranean style diet can cause significant decline in mortality and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Recently, PREDIMED study from Spain also reported that a modified Mediterranean style diet can cause significant decline in CVDs, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and cancer. It seems that Indo-Mediterranean diet is superior to Mediterranean diet as well as dietary advice to stop hypertension (DASH) diet because it contains millets, porridge and spices; turmeric, cumin, cinnamon and coriander, etc., These foods are rich sources of polyphenolics and flavonoids, calcium and iron as well as proteins which are useful in the prevention of double burden of diseases. It is possible that Mediterranean style diet and DASH diets have similar influence on coronary risk factors and CVDs and all-cause mortality. However, Indo-Mediterranean style diet may have additional protective effects due to improved food diversity and lower glycemic index as well as palatability.
Hausdorff dimension of limsup sets of isotropic rectangles in Heisenberg groups
Authors: Myllyoja Markus
Published: October 2024

A formula for the Hausdorff dimension of typical limsup sets generated by randomly distributed isotropic rectangles in Heisenberg groups is derived in terms of directed singular value functions.
Three-term asymptotic formula for large eigenvalues of the two-photon quantum Rabi model
Authors: Boutet de Monvel Anne , Zielinski Lech
Published: October 2024

We prove that the spectrum of the two-photon quantum Rabi Hamiltonian consists of two eigenvalue sequences

(E_{m}^{+})_{m=0}^{\infty}

,

(E_{m}^{-})_{m=0}^{\infty}

satisfying a three-term asymptotic formula with the remainder estimate

O(m^{-1}\ln m)

when

m

tends to infinity. Our asymptotic formula can be written so that the third term is given by an explicit oscillatory integral and an explicit remainder estimate.
Dietary Use of Monoglycerides Blend in Plant-Based Diets Influences Growth Performance, Hepatopancreatic Histology, Immunity and Disease Resistance of Pacific White Shrimp Penaeus vannamei Against Vibrio harveyi
Authors: Novriadi Romi , Khotimah Nurul , Kamarudin Ahmad Syazni , Herawati Vivi Endar , Prayitno Slamet Budi , Windarto Seto , Man Chi , Barri Adriana , Staehler Peer
Published: October 2024

Feeding trials were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of commercially available optimized mixtures of monoglyceride blend (MG, as BalanGut® AQ L supplied by BASF, Germany) on growth performance and health condition of Pacific white shrimp Penaeus vannamei. A basal diet was formulated without MG, and four other diets were prepared by supplementing the powder forms of MG at inclusion levels of 0.5, 0.75, 1,0, and 1,5%. In a growth trial, eight replicate groups of shrimps were hand-fed with one of the diets four times daily for 60 days and observed for growth, total hemocyte count (THC), lysozyme activity, and histomorphological conditions of the hepatopancreas of the shrimp. In a challenge test, diseases challenged with Vibrio harveyi infection at a dose of 1 × 105 CFU mL-1 intramuscularly were conducted and then followed with the observation of the cumulative survival rate after 96 h postchallenge, phenoloxidase, the mean percentage of phagocytic activity and phagocytic index on the blood of the shrimp. In the growth trial, shrimps with inclusion levels of 0,75 up to 1,5% of MG showed significantly higher growth performance than the control treatment. The number of THC and lysozyme activity showed an increasing trend with the inclusion of MG at 0.5 up to 1.0% and then declined with the inclusion of 1.5%. The inclusion of MG did not cause any significant changes in the histomorphology of the shrimp's hepatopancreas. In the challenge test, the lowest survival rate after being infected with Vibrio harveyi was found in the control treatment, and the highest survival rate was found in the group of shrimps fed with 1 MG. The phenoloxidase (PO) activity, phagocytic activity, and index were higher in the group of shrimps fed with MG compared to the control treatment. The results of these studies indicate that the dietary supplementation of 0.75 – 1.0 % of MG can improve the growth, health condition, and disease resistance of P. vannamei.
Zootechnical Performance, Protease Activity and Proximate Composition of Nile Tilapia Fed Diets Containing Fish Silage Produced from Fish Waste
Authors: Parvez Md. Shahin , Biswas Bijoy , Debnath Sudip , Aktar Sharmin , Rahman Sheikh Mustafizur , Ahsan Md. Nazmul
Published: October 2024

The present study was carried out to evaluate the impact of fish silage (FS) on the growth performances, protease enzyme activity and muscle compositions of Nile tilapia. In this regard, FS was produced from the waste parts of carp, pangus and tilapia and five iso-nitrogenous (containing 35% crude protein) diets were formulated in which fishmeal (FM) was used as the primary protein source in the control diet (0% FS, T1). The remaining four diets were formulated by replacing 25% (T2), 50% (T3), 75% (T4), and 100% (T5) FM protein with the FS. These diets were fed to tilapia at 8-6% of their body weight rearing them in glass tanks at the density of 15 fish/tank in triplicates. After fifty-days feeding trial, survival (%) of fish remained unaffected among the dietary treatments. Tilapia fed with 75% FS based diet showed improved growth and lower FCR, whereas those fed a diet with 100% FS exhibited lower growth rates. Notably, protease enzyme activity (mg/ml/min) increased with higher levels of FS inclusion. Increased crude protein content was observed in the fish fed the 75% FS diet. These findings underscore the potential of including FS up to 75% to enhance the growth performance of Nile tilapia.
Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique: A novel approach for gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment
Authors: Gadour Eyad , Hoff Anna Carolina
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Gastric fundoplication with endoscopic technique (GFET) is an innovative approach to managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This minimally invasive procedure utilizes the GEN-2 Apollo endosuture device and Olympus H2T180 gastroscope to perform partial fundoplication by strategically placing Prolene 2-0 sutures at the 11, 7, 5, 1, and 3 o’clock positions around the gastroesophageal junction.

AIM

To evaluate whether GFET enhances the lower esophageal sphincter function by creating comprehensive plication to improve the barrier against reflux.

METHODS

This single-center prospective study included patients undergoing GFET. Before beginning GFET, pH metrics and subsequent manometric measurements were obtained. An analysis of variance was performed to determine statistically significant differences between quality of life (QOL) and DeMeester scores at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Pearson’s χ 2 test was performed to identify statistically significant differences between categorical variables at the time of the procedure and 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

RESULTS

Eighteen participants were enrolled (11 males and 7 females; mean age, 35 years). More than 70% had an initial Hill grade of IIb. One adverse event was recorded after the procedure. One patient underwent valve reinforcement at 12 months. The mean QOL score was markedly higher at the time of the procedure (39.9 ± 4.0) compared to those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). Scores at 12 months were slightly higher than those at 6 months. The highest mean QOL score was observed at the time of the procedure, followed by those at 6 and 12 months postoperatively (P < 0.001). A similar trend was noted for the mean DeMeester scores (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

GFET is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical interventions and endoscopic techniques for managing GERD. Further research is warranted to validate its long-term efficacy and effectiveness over existing treatments.
Streptococcus suis-Associated Meningitis in a Southern Region of Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Huu , Huy Doan Thanh , Anh Vo Thi Tram , Anh Nguyen Ngoc , Uyen Nguyen Thi Thu , Hanh Nguyen Ho Hong , Phu Nguyen Hoan
Published: October 2024

Streptococcus suis is the most common and severe cause of meningitis in Vietnam, but the recent data about epidemiological characteristics and sequelae are still inadequate. We performed a retrospective study to describe the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of patients with S. suis-associated meningitis. A retrospective study was carried out by searching records from the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, between January 2016 and January 2020. All data concerning epidemiological, clinical, and subclinical characteristics and treatment results were collected and analyzed. Over the study period, 153 cases were included in this study, with 95 cases occurring in the 2016–2017 period. The median age of all patients was 52 years (range, 29–90 years), and 70.6% of patients were male. Fifty-two patients (34%) were farmers, and the Mekong Delta was the region with the highest number of cases (60.1%). The most frequent manifestation of infection was fever (151/153, 98.7%), followed by hearing loss (64/153, 41.8%), and one patient (0.7%) died. All isolates remained susceptible to ceftriaxone, penicillin, vancomycin, and levofloxacin, whereas 99.2% of isolates were resistant to tetracycline. Occupational exposure to pigs and the consumption of contaminated food have been identified as primary risk factors associated with this zoonosis, and our study found no significant changes in epidemiological factors compared with past data. The Mekong Delta continues to be the most affected region for S. suis meningitis in southern Vietnam, with S. suis serotype 2 remaining the most relevant agent.
Case Report: Streptococcus suis Human Infections among Pork Consumers in Jeju, South Korea: Zoonotic Threats
Authors: Kim Eui Tae , Heo Sang Taek , Yoo Jeong Rae , Kim Misun , Kim Tae Hyoung , Kim Young Ree
Published: October 2024

Streptococcus suis, a bacterium commonly found in pigs, causes infections in humans through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated pork products. Recently, a localized outbreak of S. suis infection in humans resulted in three confirmed cases. All three patients had some form of contact with pigs in their medical history. One patient worked at a pig farm, whereas the other two consumed raw pork soup at the same restaurant. The patients were diagnosed with septicemia, subdural empyema, and infectious spondylitis. Streptococcus suis was isolated from their blood. This study was conducted to investigate the clinical features of three patients with S. suis infection and perform a molecular biological analysis of the strains obtained from them. Subsequent investigations highlighted the potential sources for this rare but serious infection and provided insight into preventive measures.