bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and Categorization of Brain Tumors Using Ensemble Classifiers with Hybrid Features
Authors: Sabeenian Royappan Savarimuthu , Vijitha Vadivelan
Published: December 2021

Day by day the new rate of brain tumor causes is diagnosed. To make use of technology, the standard of lifestyle for many patients was increased their survival rate. Medical imaging modalities were contributing more because the internal formation of the human brain is more complicated to diagnosis. In this field, various modalities are used to detect but the invention of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) gives more attention, especially to detect brain tumor. The proposed work is focused on segmenting the tumor region in the MR images. The Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) is used to extract attributes from tumour images, which is then used with PCA to reduce the dimensionality of the attributes. Gray level co-occurrence method based different features are extracted in the MRI which is given as input to the classification learner such as ensemble, support vector machine, K-nearest neighbor, Naïve, and Fine Tree which are used to classify efficiently. The method is achieved 99% of accuracy according to that trained with 30 images and tested with 100 images. From that tumor images have been split up into benign or malignant. With this trouble-free method is used in MR images to give high accuracy.
Evaluation of Genetic Diversity and Origin of Song Ma Village Dogs in Vietnam
Authors: Bui Xuan Phuong , Pham Thanh Hai , Tran Huu Coi , Phung Thanh Tung , Ngo Quang Duc , Dinh The Dung , Dam Quang Toan , Vu Dinh Duy
Published: December 2021

Background:

Vietnam's Song Ma village dog is a breed of indigenous dog found along the Ma River in Vietnam. They have many excellent traits, like their intelligence, agility, friendliness toward humans, and more importantly, they are very easy to train, and have the instinctive hunting capabilities of their wild canine ancestors. However, the exploration of genetic diversity and the origins of Song Ma village dogs in Vietnam have a serious lack of information. It is very difficult to promote the conservation of these dogs. Therefore, urgently needed in order to uncover and better understand the genetic architecture of Song Ma village dogs.

Methods:

We used 100 blood samples collected in Vietnam to estimate genetic diversity by sequencing the hypervariable-1 region.

Results:

We reported high levels of genetic diversity in the Song Ma village dog (Pi = 0.00912, Hd = 0.969, and Kt = 5.456). A total of 51 different haplotypes were identified in four haplogroups (A, B, C, and E). Furthermore, Song Ma village dogs were discovered in rare groups such as B1, B5, B6, B10, C2, and E1. Notably, no one in the haplogroup has the haplotypes (D and F). There were 49 single nucleotide polymorphisms, including 48 nucleotide base substitution or insertion changes and six nucleotide indel mutations found in the Song Ma village dog. A phylogenetic tree showed that Song Ma village dogs have a close relationship with dogs that originated from East Asia.

Conclusions:

This study has provided a valuable platform for breeding and conservation and management of the species in Vietnam.
Prevalence of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus Causing Urinary Tract Infection in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Eastern India
Authors: Das Sanjeev , Konar Jayashree , Talukdar Manas
Published: December 2021

Background:

The increasing prevalence of urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) is of particular concern within many institutions because of limited treatment options.

Objective:

The objective of the study is to estimate the prevalence of VRE amongst the urinary pathogens along with detection of the antimicrobials effective against VRE in vitro.

Materials and Methods:

This hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was performed from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020, with 1037 adult patients developing symptoms of UTI. Mid-stream urine was collected in proper aseptic manner for microbiological culture to isolate and identify the bacterial pathogen. Collected urine samples were screened for pus cells and bacteria. This was followed by plating on (basal media), blood agar (enriched media), and MacConkey's agar media (differential and selective media), followed by overnight incubation at 37°C. Species confirmation and minimum inhibitory concentration value determination were done by automation.

Results:

Out of total 1037 collected urine samples, 693 were culture positive for bacterial etiology (66.8%). 457 urine cultures were positive for Enterococcus spp., of which 41 were vancomycin resistant (8.97%). A total of 18 Enterococcus faecalis isolates (4.72%) were vancomycin resistant, whereas significantly higher number of Enterococcus faecium, i.e., 23 isolates (30.26%) were vancomycin resistant (P < 0.01). All of 41 VRE isolates were resistant to ampicillin. No trends were observed for resistance against nitrofurantoin, tigecycline, linezolid, and daptomycin. These remained highly effective against VRE across the study period.

Conclusion:

Since VRE is emerging as a prevalent uropathogen with limited therapeutic options, the use of vancomycin demands judicious administration to treat UTI. Hence, antimicrobial stewardship deserves a crucial role to play.
Gene Expression Analysis to Network Construction for the Identification of Hub Genes Involved in Neurodevelopment
Authors: Yadav Ruchi
Published: December 2021

Background:

Gene expression information can be decoded to identify not only differentially expressed genes but also co-expressed genes that can give insight into protein interaction network. Current research has been done for the prediction of genes associated with Neurodevelopmental process using Microarray data and to construct the network of coexpressed genes and their functional annotation.

Methods:

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were exposed with Resveratrol (RV), Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and RV+NGF to study the effect of neuroprotective role of RV (Data submitted NCBI's Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO Series accession number GSE121261). Bioinformatics software's, tools and databases like R and Bioconductor, Affy package, CoExpress 1.0b software, Metascape tool and Gene Ontology database was used prediction and functional enrichment of coexpressed genes. Normalization was done using RMA (Robust Multi-array Average) as implemented in Affy package and co-expressed genes were identified using CoExpress 1.0b with default parameters.

Results:

Co- expression result shows that total 135 genes have same gene expression across microarray chip these genes have function in different biological processes like, developmental processes, MAPK TRK pathway, muscle structure development etc. Total fifteen were identified that have function in nervous system development.

Conclusions:

This study identifies the list of co-expressed that were expressed in neurodevelopmental stage. These genes can be used further as neuronal markers, neuronal injury identification and diagnosis prospective at the developmental stage. Further verification methods are required for these predicted proteins for their applicability in drug development process.
Formulation of New Intelligent Nanoparticle Inhibited H1N1 Influenza Subtype and SARS Coronavirus Type 2 (COVID-19) in vitro
Authors: Shirmohammadi Nima , Khodaee Arefeh , Rahimi Maryam , Vanayi Marzieh , Aghanouri Reza
Published: December 2021

Background:

Rapid infection of the coronavirus and frequency of the subtypes are the main problems of drug and vaccine intervention during COVID-19 pandemic. New drug discovery to respond these needs, is the goal of study. Hence, considering structural and biological components of SARS-CoV-2, new intelligent particle designed and formulated and several dockings were done as in silico assay.

Methods:

Fe3O4 nanoparticles synthesized by the coprecipitation method, coated and functionalized. Chemical bindings (Fourier transform infrared assay), magnetic behavior (vibrating sample magnetometer assay), morphology (field emission scanning electron microscope assay), and cell toxicity and cell viability (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay) were checked and confirmed in vitro by exposure of particles to the H1N1 virus laboratory media exposure (BSL2 category).

Results:

Results show drug has ability to reduce more than 4 logarithms in the virus titration, in concentration of 70 μg/ml, so it was proved these nanoparticles could have antiviral effect. Although, because of lack of BSL3 standard laboratory, the antiviral effect on COVID-19 could not be performed on large scale.

Conclusions:

By the way, we concluded that new specific nanoparticles could make a new chance for COVID-19 drug therapy at any subtype exposure.
Impact of 27Gln\Glu Polymorphisms of β2-Adrenergic Receptor Gene on Pulmonary Function in Asthmatic Children Treated with Nebulized Salbutamol
Authors: Abood Haidar A. N.
Published: December 2021

Background:

The β2-adrenergic receptor gene is a typical candidate for the study of genetic polymorphism. Many patients with asthma do not respond to β2-agonist; in addition, a wide interindividual variability in pharmacological response exists, likely because of the interaction between clinical, environmental, and genetic factors.

Methods:

A total of 80 children (55 boys and 25 girls) with mild-moderate acute asthma attacks, ages range between 5 and 18 years, attended the Asthma Clinic at Karbala Teaching Hospital for Children were included in this study. Spirometry (Spirolab III) was used for lung function assessment before and after treatment with nebulized salbutamol, and allele-specific polymerase chain reaction was performed to determine single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of β2-adrenergic receptor gene at nucleic acid 79 (27 amino acid position).

Results:

The effect of treatment with nebulized salbutamol on lung function in asthmatic children having different genotypes of 27Gln\Glu SNP demonstrated that patients having GG and CG genotypes showed significant improvement (P < 0.05) in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC ratio, and FEV1% predicted after treatment, while patients having CC genotype showed significant improvement (P < 0.05) in FEV1, FVC, and FEV1% predicted after treatment with nebulized salbutamol without significant improvement in FEV1/FVC ratio. Patients having CG genotype of 27Gln\Glu SNP showed highest change (increase) in FEV1 (185.38 ± 174.93 ml) and in FEV1% predicted (14.96 ± 15.45%) after treatment with nebulized salbutamol in comparison with other genotype groups although this change was not statistically significant between groups.

Conclusion:

Asthmatic children having CG and GG genotypes of β2-adrenergic receptor gene (27Gln\Glu) showed better improvement in lung function after treatment with nebulized salbutamol in comparison with those having CC (27Gln\Glu) genotype during mild-to-moderate acute asthma attacks.
Radiographic assessment of alveolar bone loss around customized root analog zirconia implants placed in fresh extraction sockets
Authors: Patankar Amod , Kshirsagar Rajesh , Patankar Swapna , Purkayastha Rakhi S , Pawar Sudhir , Nair Krishnanunni
Published: December 2021

Aim:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the radiographic assessment of alveolar bone loss around customized root analog zirconia implants placed in fresh extraction sockets using the cone-beam computed tomography at predetermined intervals.

Subjects and Methods:

The present study comprised twenty individuals all above 18 years with at least one tooth indicated for extraction. The twenty participants were considered in a single group who underwent single tooth extraction followed by the placement of root analog zirconia implant after 7 days which was fabricated using computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing technology. The participants were evaluated radiographically using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) at predetermined intervals: • Within 48 h of implant placement (CBCT I) • At the time of composite crown cementation on zirconia implant after 4 months of placement (CBCT II) • After 4 months of composite crown cementation (CBCT III). The alveolar bone loss was measured on all the four surfaces of the implant. CBCT was used only for the required area so to avoid total radiation exposure to the patient.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The survival of dental implants was computed using the Kaplan–Meier method. The comparison of the mesial, distal, buccal, and lingual bone height at 3 different time intervals was analyzed using the repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results:

Radiographic assessment of alveolar bone loss around customized root analog zirconia implants placed in fresh extraction sockets in predetermined time interval using the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was taken to be statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions:

An innovative technique for immediate replacement of extracted tooth using customized Zirconia root analog implant was introduced. In future, long-term evaluation with more sample size is necessary to assess the success and survival of implant placed using this technique.
Hybrid implants in the dental rehabilitation of posterior maxilla
Authors: Krishnaprabhu Rajkumar , Shadamarshan R Arunkumar , Roy Chowdhury Sanjay Kumar
Published: December 2021

Context:

Implant-retained prosthodontic rehabilitation of the posterior maxilla poses a unique challenge due to deficiency in bony characteristics in many cases, thereby requiring elaborate adjunctive surgical procedures to aid in implant placement.

Aims:

We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of hybrid implants in the prosthodontic rehabilitation of edentulous posterior maxilla.

Subjects and Methods:

Prospective clinical evaluation of 27 patients (30 implants) rehabilitated using hybrid implants at 1 and 4 weeks after implant placement and 3, 6, and 12 months after functional loading was conducted.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The average pain score on the Visual Analog Scale was 4.53 and 0.76 at the end of 1st week and 4 weeks. Four implants (13.33%) were found unstable by 4 weeks. Two implants (6.67%) had exposure by 12 months. Less than 1 mm of mobility was seen in one implant (3.33%) by 3 months, four implants (13.33%) by 6 months, and five implants (16.67%) by 12 months. One implant (3.33%) developed mobility up to 2 mm by 12 months. Seven implants (23.33%) showed a probing depth of ≥5 mm but none more than 6 mm. Gingival recession of 2 and 3 mm was seen in two implants (6.67%) and one implant (3.33%), respectively, at the end of 12 months. The average bone loss was 0.17, 0.31, and 0.46 mm by 3, 6, and 12 months. The average rate of bone loss was 0.02 mm per month.

Conclusions:

Hybrid implant is an excellent alternative in patients with inadequate bone in the posterior maxilla precluding the requirement of maxillary sinus lift and grafting.
Resistance to dynamic and static loading of the implant mounts on its respective implant
Authors: Blanco-Gonzalez Daniela , Villalobos-Ramirez Francisco , Fernández-López Ottón , Chavarría-Bolaños Daniel , Vargas-Koudriavtsev Tatiana
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Implant restorations should endure a variable range of forces over a long period of time. Some commercial brands offer the implant together with an accessory called “implant mount” or “implant holder,” which might be used as a temporary abutment. However, scientific literature in the use of implant holders as abutments for restorations is scarce.

Objectives:

The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the load at which implant holders of Implant Direct® and Zimmer® fail under static compression after being subjected to fatigue, and to compare the gap produced between the implant–holder complexes after dynamic loading.

Materials and Methods:

The test protocol was based on the recommendation of ISO 14801. Five implant–implant holder assemblies of each brand were subjected to dynamic loading. A load of 250 N was applied at 5 × 106 cycles and at 15 Hz stress frequency (Eden Prairie, MN, USA). The gap (μm) at the interface was measured postfatigue using scanning electron microscopy (S-3700N, HITACHI, Japan), and afterward, static loading was applied and the maximum load (N) after the point of failure was established. Implant–definitive abutment complexes were used as controls. Data were analyzed by means of a central tendency measurement test Mann–Whitney U-test (nonparametric).

Results:

There was no difference between both the implant holder groups (P ≤ 0.05); however, a slight trend of greater resistance was observed for the Zimmer® group. The gap in the interface was greater for Implant Direct® implants, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

No significant differences were found in terms of the maximum load under compression or the interface gap after the dynamic loading in the two experimental groups.
Clinical and Angiographic Profile of Patients with Severe Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction without Established Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Khandelwal Lokesh , Trehan Vijay Kumar , Girish M P , Gupta Mohit Dayal , Safal Safal
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common etiology of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (EF). Coronary angiography is usually not done in patients with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) without a history of acute coronary syndrome or angina, due to fear of increased risk. Hence, the prevalence of CAD in such cases remains unknown. This study aimed at analyzing the clinical and angiographic profile of the patients with severe LVSD (EF ≤35%) without established CAD.

Methods:

This was a prospective, observational study conducted from January 2018 to July 2019. One hundred consecutive patients (≥18 years) with severe LVSD (EF ≤35%) without established CAD were assessed for underlying CAD by coronary angiography. Patients were divided into those with no CAD and CAD. Patients having CAD were further classified into those with significant CAD and severe CAD based on angiographic lesion severity. The risk factors contributing to significant CAD were analyzed.

Results:

Sixty-four patients had no CAD and 36 patients had CAD, of which 34 and 26 patients had significant CAD and severe CAD, respectively. 41.7% patients had double-vessel disease followed by 33.3% and 25% patients having triple-vessel disease and single-vessel disease, respectively. The risk factors for significant CAD were male >55 years/female >65 years, male gender, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and dyslipidemia. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed diabetes and dyslipidemia to be the independent risk predictors for significant CAD.

Conclusion:

Occult CAD is present in high proportions in patients with severe LVSD without established CAD specially in presence of risk factors such as diabetes, male >55 years/female >65 years and dyslipidemia. Hence, coronary angiography should be considered strongly in such patients having one or more of these risk factors.
Evaluation of Some Biomarkers in Diagnosis of Bacterial Bloodstream Infection in Children
Authors: Abood Rana Mohammed , Ashoor Zainab Fadhel , Al Saadi Yasir Ibrahim
Published: December 2021

Background:

Bloodstream infection (BSI) is a life-threatening condition caused by the presence of microorganisms, generally caused by a range of bacteria in the blood.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as biomarkers of pediatric BSI.

Methodology:

The study was conducted on 150 blood samples collected from the patient who admitted to Children Welfare Teaching Hospital, Medical City, Baghdad. During the period from November 2020 to March 2021, ninety blood samples from them were positive culture and 60 blood samples were negative culture (control group). The isolates were identified depending on the morphological, microscopic examination, and biochemical tests. Moreover, serum was obtained from all participants for the determination of the screening level of human PCT measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and CRP by slide agglutination test.

Results:

The results in this study revealed that the mean levels of serum PCT and CRP in Gram-negative group and Gram-positive group were significantly difference from the control group.

Conclusions:

The adoption of these biomarkers as routine diagnostic tests for sepsis may help in the early diagnosis of pediatric sepsis.
In vitro Assessment of Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns in Positive Blood Cultures of 22 Neonates with Neonatal Sepsis in a Children's Hospital in Baghdad
Authors: Nashtar Saad Badai , Abdullah Razzaq Kaream , Al-Rubaye Waad Edan Louis
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

neonatal sepsis (NS) is a serious disease in neonatology responsible for the higher percentage of neonatal deaths. It is a microbial disease caused by various types of bacterial and nonbacterial pathogens.

Objectives:

The objective is to determine the causative bacterial pathogens of NS for the specified period and their susceptibility toward the available antimicrobial drugs.

Patients and Methods:

Blood cultures of 67 neonates with clinical picture of NS were assessed for antimicrobial sensitivity.

Results:

Forty three cultures (64.2%) were negative, 4 cultures (5.9%) revealed Candida spp. and 20 (29.9%) cultures were positive. Gram-negative bacteria Klebsiella was the predominant pathogen causing NS (45.45%) followed be Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus (18.2%). Vancomycin, ciprofloxacin, and amikacin were the most effective antimicrobials against Gram-positive isolates while imipenem was the most effective against Gram-negative bacteria.

Discussion:

klebsiella was the predominant microbe in NS in many studies, other pathogens were variable between countries. Vancomycin and imipenem approved their excellent effects reported in many others studies while penicillin approved high bacterial resistance recorded previously.

Conclusion:

Gram-negative bacteria were predominant and more resistant to the tested antimicrobials. Imipenem, vancomycin, ciprofloxacin were the best effective according to the isolated microbes.
Oral cancer diagnostics
Authors: Chaurasia Akhilanand , Alam Saman Ishrat , Singh Navin
Published: December 2021

Cancer was first mentioned in medicine texts by Egyptians. Ancient Indians studied oral cancer in great detail under Susruta. Cancer has continued to be a challenge to physicians from ancient times to the present. Over the years, cancer underwent a shift in management from radical surgeries toward a more preventive approach. Early diagnosis is vital in reducing cancer-associated mortality especially with oral cancer. Even though the mainstay of oral cancer diagnosis still continues to be a trained clinician and histopathologic examination of malignant tissues. Translating innovation in technological advancements in diagnostic aids for oral cancer will require both improved decision-making and a commitment toward optimizing cost, skills, turnover time between capturing data and obtaining a useful result. The present review describes the conventional to most advanced diagnostic modalities used as oral cancer diagnostics. It also includes the new technologies available and the future trends in oral cancer diagnostics.
Biomedical waste management in dentistry during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kumar Gyanendra , Rehman Ferah , Kelkar Monica
Published: December 2021

In the current coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, dentists, auxiliaries as well as patients undergoing dental procedures are at high risk of cross-infection. Many patients who are asymptomatic may be carriers. For this reason, it is suggested that all patients visiting a dental office must be treated with due precautions. Ample amount of data is available which is mainly focusing on infection prevention and asepsis protocol for dental set ups with little emphasis on biomedical waste (BMW) management which is equally important in curbing the spread of the disease to health-care workers and general population. This article highlights the updated guidelines of BMW management to be followed in various dental set ups to prevent this spread to health-care workers dealing with the disposal of waste generated while treating patients in dental care.
Assessment of the anterior and caudal extent of inferior alveolar nerve canal, location of inferior alveolar canal and mental foramen, and the depth of submandibular fossa using computed tomography
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Brar Ramandeep , Ahmad Tahir , Narad Chintan , Sodhi S. P. S. , Kaur Amandeep
Published: December 2021

Background:

A well-versed knowledge of the precise location of various anatomical landmarks is necessary to avoid complications during surgery. The study was conducted for the assessment of the anterior and caudal extent of the inferior alveolar nerve canal, location of inferior alveolar canal and mental foramen, and the depth of the submandibular fossa using computed tomography (CT).

Materials and Methods:

One hundred CT scans were randomly selected for this study accounting for 200 hemimandibles. Both axial and coronal images were obtained and evaluated concurrently. Results were subjected to statistical analysis for correct inferences.

Results:

A total of 200 hemimandibles (n = 200) from 100 patients with a mean age was 23.89 ± 1.75 years ranging from 21 to 33 years were evaluated. The mean length of the anterior loop was 0.95 mm for all of the observation combined and measurement range from 0 to 5.1 mm. The total frequency of type I, type II, and type III of mental nerve was found as 71%, 4.5%, and 24.5%, respectively. At the level of the first molar, the mean distance from the center of the inferior alveolar canal to the external surface of the buccal cortex (Q) was 5.44 ± 1.38 mm ranging from 2.4 to 10.4 mm. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in MF-IMB (mental foramen to the inferior border of mandible) between the right and left sides of the mandible. (P = 0.87).

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrates that analyzing CT scans using the methods described in this study can be a useful tool in avoiding the iatrogenic injuries to inferior alveolar nerve and arteries during various maxillofacial surgical procedures.
Treatment of a central giant cell lesion in the mandible
Authors: Lima Bernardo Correia , Pinheiro Giulianna Lima , Pinto Leonardo Augustus Peral Ferreira , Cavalcante Maria Aparecida de Albuquerque
Published: December 2021

Central giant cell lesion (CGCL) is a benign intraosseous lesion that usually accompany the gnathic bones in the anterior region, mostly crossing the midline. Its clinical features involve cortical expansion, tooth displacement, and root resorption. Pain may occur in 20% of cases. Histopathological characteristics are like other pathological entities, being necessary discarding them. In this case, a 53-year-old female presented an expansive legion in the anterior mandible with tooth displacement and pain. After incisional biopsy, the result was CGCL. Surgical planning involved manufacturing a biomodel, bending the reconstruction plate to give the correct mandibular arch perimeter. After that, it was performed a segmental resection and installation of a reconstruction plate using a cervical approach. The patient is under follow-up with no signs of recurrence or complications.
Nasal changes in different age groups
Authors: Shastri Dipti , Tandon Pradeep , Singh Ankita
Published: December 2021

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate nasal changes in different age groups and to detect gender difference in nasal dimensions.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical measurement and profile photographic records of 279 randomly selected subjects were obtained for the evaluation of nasal changes. Thirty-nine subjects were excluded, and the final sample consisted of 240 subjects. The subjects were divided into four groups by age: Group 1 (16–20 years), Group 2 (21–30 years), Group 3 (31–40 years), and Group 4 (41–50 years). Each group was further subdivided on the basis of gender. Data were collected and analyzed by two-way multivariate analysis of variance with Duncan's multiple range post hoc test.

Results:

In both males and females, nasal height and breadth increased with except nasal index and nasolabial angle. More nasal changes were seen in males as compared to females of the same age group.

Conclusions:

Nonconsistent age-related changes were found for nasal index and nasolabial angle. The rest of the nasal parameters increased with age and differ between the genders. Larger nasal changes were seen in males as compared to females of the same age group.
An overview of effect of lycopene and curcumin in oral leukoplakia and oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Ahmad Tanveer , Khan Imran , Rizvi M Moshahid , Saalim Mohd , Manzoor Nikhat , Sultana Asia
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the current article was to evaluate the recently published researches on the use of lycopene and curcumin in oral leukoplakia (OL) and oral submucous fibrosis (OSF). A comprehensive review of the current researches enveloping PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane was made using the keywords [(Lycopene) OR (Curcumin) AND (Leukoplakia OR OL OR OSF OR OSMF OR OSF OR Submucous Fibrosis)]. We included only randomized control trials and in the English language. The search covers the data from 1994 to August 2020. Six studies (2 of OL and 4 of OSF) finally qualified are included in the study for the qualitative analysis of the result. Out of these six studies, four were found having high risk, one with unclear risk and one with low risk. Only one study came out as finally suitable for the quantitative analysis of the result. A total of 90 participants were included in this review, with a mean age of 32 with a range of 17–60 years. Out of 90 participants, 70 were male and 20 were female. It is evident from the result of this study that the use of oral curcumin and lycopene has significant improvement in the mouth opening, burning sensation, and cheek flexibility in comparison to the placebo. The use of oral curcumin and lycopene appears to be effective and safe in the treatment of OL and OSF but to read the result of use of oral curcumin and lycopene in OL caution should be taken because of bias.
Augmentation rhinoplasty using olecranon bone graft
Authors: Mehta Jitendra S. , Zade Manish P. , Nakade Dhananjay V. , Gupta Shitiz , Akhila C. V.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Correction of saddle nose deformity is one of the most frequently sought surgeries by patients seeking rhinoplasty in Asian countries. Nasal dorsal augmentation always requires graft material to achieve the desired result. Various autologous grafts and alloplastic materials have been described in the literature with their advantages and disadvantages. We report our study on the use of olecranon bone graft for augmentation rhinoplasty in severe saddle nose deformity and discuss our experience with it.

Materials and Methods:

In this observational study, 12 patients who underwent dorsal nasal augmentation using olecranon bone graft from August 2011 to December 2020 were studied. All ten patients with congenital deformity underwent graft insertion through a closed rhinoplasty approach, whereas two patients with posttraumatic deformity were operated through old scars over the nasal dorsum. The graft was fixed with screws at nasion in both posttraumatic cases. All the patients were evaluated postoperatively at regular intervals for graft resorption by clinical photographs and X-ray nasal bone.

Results:

The age ranged from 20 years to 48 years. No immediate complications related to graft placement were noted. One patient had a hairline fracture of the ulna at the donor site on the 3rd postoperative day which was managed conservatively with a cast. The mean follow-up period was 2 years. No nasal dorsum projection loss or signs of bone resorption were observed for up to 5 years after surgery. One patient with posttraumatic deformity required removal of fixation screw which got exposed after 2 years of surgery.

Conclusion:

Olecranon bone graft is a suitable material for nasal dorsal augmentation in severe saddle nose deformity because of ease of harvest and minimal donor area morbidity. The appropriate thickness of the cortex of the olecranon process allows custom molding and provides resistance to resorption in long term, thereby giving a desirable outcome.
Indian Subset Analysis of a Phase IIIb Open-Label Study of Afatinib in Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Naïve Patients with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutation Positive Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Rajappa Senthil J. , Srinivasa B. J. , Bondarde Shailesh A. , Gokhale Partha Mohan , Sonone Pankaj , Dahiya Arun Kumar
Published: December 2021

Aims:

The study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of afatinib in locally advanced or metastatic nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, in Indian subset of a Phase IIIB open-label study.

Methods:

A multicenter, open-label, Phase IIIB study was conducted to evaluate afatinib in EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor-naïve patients with locally advanced/metastatic EGFRm + NSCLC across five countries (34 sites; China, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, and Taiwan). A total 541 patients were recruited, out of which 50 patients were from India. In this article, we have evaluated the safety and tolerability of afatinib in Indian subset of patients (n = 50). Treatment with afatinib was continued until lack of clinical benefit as determined by the investigator. Primary endpoint was safety in terms of patients with serious adverse events (SAEs). Secondary endpoints included number of patients with drug-related AEs, time to symptomatic progression (TTSP), and progression-free survival (PFS).

Results:

Forty-six out of 50 patients experienced at least one AE. As in the overall study, diarrhea was the most common drug-related AE in Indian patients. In majority (85%) of cases, severity of diarrhea was of grade 1 or 2. No new safety concern was identified in the study. Median TTSP and PFS were 13.43 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.51, 18.33) and 10.08 months (95% CI: 7.32, 14.75), respectively, in Indian subset.

Conclusions:

Safety and tolerability of afatinib were consistent with overall study and previously reported data. Most of the AEs were manageable without any need of treatment discontinuation.
Effect of turbidity on ultraviolet disinfection of domestic wastewater for agricultural reuse
Authors: Garay Diego Fernando Atoche , Voltolini Lisiana Crivelenti , Bastos Reinaldo Gaspar , Souza Claudinei Fonseca
Published: December 2021

Water treatment and reuse are fundamental because of the increasing demand for freshwater, especially in agriculture. Accordingly, this study evaluated the effects of turbidity of wastewater processed at the Effluent Treatment Station (ETE) of the UFSCar/Araras and of UV dose on microbial inactivation. The ETE treats up to 2000 L of wastewater daily from toilets and a university restaurant and has five components (grease box, septic tank, microalgae tank, upflow anaerobic filter, and wetlands). Pretreated effluents were used in the experiments, and sampling sites consisted of inspection boxes located after the wetlands. Sample collection, inspection, preservation, and analyses were performed according to standard methods. Sample turbidity was adjusted to 5, 50, 100, 200, and 300 nephelometric turbidity units (NTU), and UV doses of 7.2–28.8 mWs cm-2 were used. A 5 x 5 factorial design (five turbidity levels and five radiation doses) was used, totaling 25 treatments. Each treatment was performed in triplicate. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey’s test. The results showed that the increase in turbidity significantly decreased disinfection efficiency in samples with turbidity levels higher than 50 NTU. The microbial inactivation coefficients obtained here can be extrapolated to disinfection of wastewater with turbidity up to 300 NTU to eliminate thermotolerant coliforms. The UV sterilizer is feasible for wastewater treatment and its reuse in agriculture.

Keywords: domestic effluent, sustainability, ultraviolet radiation, water reuse.
Mission-Based Filters in the Electronic Residency Application Service: Saving Time and Promoting Diversity
Authors: Swails Jennifer L. , Adams Sasha , Hormann Mark , Omoruyi Emma , Aibana Omowunmi
Published: December 2021

Background

Holistic review promotes diversity, but widespread implementation remains limited.

Objective

We aimed to develop a practical approach to incorporate holistic review principles in screening applicants in the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and to assess the impact on diversity.

Methods

Three residency programs (internal medicine [IM], pediatrics, and surgery) at McGovern Medical School developed filters to identify applicants with experiences/attributes aligned with the institutional mission. These filters were retroactively applied to each program's 2019–2020 applicant pool using built-in ERAS capabilities to group applicants by user-defined features. We compared the demographics of applicants reviewed during the cycle with those identified retrospectively through experiences/attributes filters.

Results

The IM, pediatrics, and surgery programs received 3527, 1341, and 1313 applications, respectively, in 2019–2020. Retrospective use of experiences/attributes filters, without scores, narrowed the IM applicant pool for review to 1301 compared to 1323 applicants reviewed during actual recruitment, while the pediatrics filters identified 514 applicants compared to 384 at baseline. The surgery filters resulted in 582 applicants, but data were missing for baseline comparison. Compared to the baseline screening approach utilizing scores, mission-based filters increased the proportions of underrepresented in medicine applicants selected for review in IM (54.8% [95% CI 52.1–57.5] vs 22.7% [20.4–24.9], P < .0001) and pediatrics (63.2% [95% CI 59.1–67.4] vs 25.3% [20.9–29.6], P < .0001).

Conclusions

Program directors can leverage existing ERAS features to conduct application screening in alignment with holistic review principles. Widespread implementation could have important repercussions for enhancing physician workforce diversity.
Introduction: The crisis of African Studies and Philosophy in the epoch of The Fourth Industrial Revolution
Authors: Lamola M. John
Published: December 2021

The very claim of the historical instance of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is increasingly being subjected to critical interrogation from a variety of cultural and ideological perspectives. From an Afrocentric theory of history, this questioning of the ontology of the 4IR is sharpened by Africa’s experience of the claimed progressive mutation of global industrial progress from the “first” to this “fourth” revolution. Africa experienced the first industrial revolution as a European revolution in the exploitation of her natural and human resources, as well as the despoliation of her cultural-epistemic sovereignty. The challenge to fully engage in the theorisation of this 4IR, given the overwhelming and inexorable effects of its digital technologies on the personhood, sociality and geopolitical state of Africa has exposed the critical need for a set of rigorous Africanist analytical tools and epistemological approaches capable of guiding Africa’s appropriation of this techno-social revolution. This essay introduces the collection of research papers that have been selected for their endeavour to meet this challenge. It is highlighted that all of them move from a unique approach that asserts that technological progress is historical-cultural and socially embedded. Some of them address the question of the historico-ontological status of the 4IR innovatively with original African methodological tools, while others demonstrate how an African epistemology can be applied to issues such a digital virtual communities and robotics. This contribution to the bourgeoning field of African Philosophy of Technology is admired as work in progress.
The Saharo-Canarian Circle: The forgotten Prehistory of Euro African Atlantic façade and its lack of eastern demic diffusion evidences
Authors: Arnaiz-Villena Antonio , Medina Marcial , Ruíz-del-Valle Valentín , Palacio-Gruber José , Lopez-Nares Adrian , Barrera-Gutiérrez Luis , Suarez-Trujillo Fabio
Published: December 2021

Canarians, North Africans and Iberians show a close genetic relatedness. Greeks have a Sub-Saharan gene input according to HLA and other autosomic markers. Also, there is a genetic kinship between both Atlantic Euro Africans and North African/Arabic people. This is concordant with a drying humid Sahara Desert, which may have occurred about 6,000 years BC, and the subsequent northwards emigration of Saharan people may have also happened in Pharaonic times. This genetic input into Atlantic and Mediterranean Europe/Africa is also supported with Lineal Megalithic Scripts in Canary Islands (as well as in Iberia) together with simple Iberian semi-syllabary rock inscriptions both at Canary Islands and Ti-m Missaou (Algeria, Central southern Sahara). Lineal African/European scripts are found in certain languages scripts like Berber/Tuareg, Iberian, Runes, Etruscan, Bulgarian (Sitovo and Gradeshnitza, 6,000 years BP), Italian Old Scripts (Lepontic, Venetic, Raetic), Minoan Lineal A and Vinca scripts (Romania, Serbia, Greece, Bulgaria, about 4,000 years BP). The possibility that Megalithic Lineal Scripts have given rise to these languages lineal writing is feasible because admixture of languages rock scripts and Megalithic Lineal Scripts have been found. Thus, resistance of Canarian aborigines (Guanches) to Carthage, Rome and Arabs left a bulk of Canarian-Saharan information which is used to study both Saharan and Canarian Prehistory, and also Atlantic and Mediterranean beginning of European and other civilizations: this preserved prehistoric inheritance may be named the “Saharo-Canarian Circle” of prehistoric knowledge. Also, linguistics-epigraphy, physical anthropology, archaeology, and domesticated cattle shows a close North Africa-Iberia Mesolithic/Neolithic relationship and demonstrates that the demic diffusion model does not exist in Iberia. Also, Tassili Sahara paintings of domesticated cattle appear 1,000 years before those agricultural practices started at Middle East. Finally, it is also inferred that circum-Mediterranean contacts during thousand years between ice and desert constructed Mediterranean cultures from Canary Islands to Ancient Great Persia and this is the origin of Classical Mediterranean cultures that was later exclusively attributed to Rome and Greece.
Lineal Megalithic Rock Scripts as precursors of Iberian and other lineal Mediterranean/Euro African ancient writings: the case of Fuerteventura (Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Arnaiz-Villena Antonio , Medina Marcial , Ruíz-del-Valle Valentín , López-Nares Adrian , De Vera-Lima Jose Antonio , Mata Luis , Barrera-Gutiérrez Luis , Palacio-Grüber José , Suarez-Trujillo Fabio
Published: December 2021

Lineal Megalithic/Paleolithic Lineal signs/lines may have a variety of purposes or representations. Some authors have proposed they represent sky, planets and stars and their movements, space/time representations or others, including letters/syllables or symbols/events. Some are painted, other incised; the latter are relatively more common in Megalithic scripts. Man is “writing” or creating handmade figures on stones /rocks and other supports, which sometimes have intentionally been polished since Paleolithic times: at least 70,000 years BP (Blombos Cave, South Africa). Megalithic script is named because it is associated to megalithic structures, although not exclusively. Von Petzinger 40,000 years old “symbols” and/or writing are extended worldwide in Paleolithic caves and other rocks. Man connection was worldwide in Paleolithic times. Canary Islands incise or picketed lineal writing exists with a transcribed and translated meaning collection of signs (Ibero-Guanche or Latin inscriptions and Lybic ones). Also, other African/European/Mediterranean lineal scripts there exist and examples are given in the present paper. Fuerteventura Island contains in addition many small or bigger stones and rocks with these Paleolithic/Megalithic incised lines all over its territory. About timing in which these stones that were incised by man, we are only referring to a kind of stone crafting. However, we do not discard that they were made by man several thousand years BP. Some Paleolithic/Megalithic scripts are mixed with clear Iberian semi-syllabary signs in Fuerteventura and other Canary Islands. They may reflect the evolution of more ancient Megalithic scripts to lineal writings like those detailed in the present paper and others. Finally, writing concept should be redefined whenever more precise data and dating be available.
Edaravone mitigates cognitive impairment and hippocampal injury in juvenile rats with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome via regulation of cAMP/PKACREB pathway
Authors: Zhao Yongmei , Li Hongli , Chen Yong , Li Kexing , Yang Sufei
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To investigate the influence of edaravone on cognitive impairment and hippocampal injury in juvenile rats with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), and the mechanism involved.Methods: Fifty-four young Wistar rats were randomly selected into control, intermittent hypoxia and edaravone groups. The contents of the antioxidants CAT, Mn-SOD, Cu/Zn SOD and oxidative stress products malondialdehyde (MDA) in hippocampus were assayed and compared. The expressions of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Bcl-2, CREB, p-CREB and PKAc were determined.Results: The times taken to cross the target quadrant and the platform; levels of CAT and Mn-SOD, as well as protein levels of BNDF, Bcl-2, p-CREB and PKAc were markedly lower in intermittent hypoxia group than in controls; and MDA contents, 8-OHdG and protein hydroxyl were markedly higher in intermittent hypoxic rats group than in controls. Time taken to cross the platform and quadrant; activities of CAT and Mn-SOD, and protein concentrations of BDNF, Bcl-2, p-CREB and PKAc were markedly higher in the edaravone-treated rats than in intermittent hypoxia rats.Conclusion: Edaravone significantly mitigated cognitive damage and hippocampal lesions in OSAHS rats via a mechanism related to alleviation of oxidative stress and up-regulation of the expressions of p-CREB and its downstream proteins BDNF and Bcl-2. This finding provides a theoretical basis for research and development of new drugs against OSAHS.