bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical profile and outcome of children presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis at a tertiary care hospital in Dakshina Kannada
Authors: Panakkal Sejal J. , Diksha Shirodkar  , Praksh R. M. Saldanha
Published: April 2023

Background: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is the most serious metabolic disturbance of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and about 25 to 40% of the newly diagnosed T1DM children present with DKA. This research was conducted to study the clinical profile and identify the precipitating factors at time of presentation of DKA and to correlate the type onset of disease with the severity of DKA and the treatment outcome.
Methods: Ambispective record based study of children admitted in in the paediatric ward of a tertiary care hospital with DKA between 01 July 2019 and 31 January 2022.
Results: A total of 19 patients were enrolled and the mean age of presentation was 10.79±4.17 years with a female predominance. The family history of type 2 DM was noted in 73.7% and osmotic symptoms in 68.4% of the patients. 52.6% of the patients presented in severe DKA. Mean HbA1C noted was 15.14±2.74%. Acute Kidney Injury was present in 10.5% of the patients. Pneumonia was the major precipitating factor. The average length of hospital stay was 7.42±3.27 days. There was no significant correlation with the type of onset of T1DM and the treatment outcome. There was a significant reduction in HbA1c (p<0.05) on follow-up.
Conclusions: This study highlights the need for creating awareness, early referral and timely management of T1DM presenting not only in DKA but also during the ambulatory management.
Knowledge of the Saudi hypertensive individuals towards hypertension: a cross-sectional analytical study
Authors: Al-Shehri Hamdan M.
Published: April 2023

Background: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge of hypertension among adults living in Saudi Arabia. This information will be valuable for healthcare providers, public health organizations, and policy makers in developing effective health education programs and interventions to improve the management and prevention of hypertension in Saudi Arabia
Methods: The study was conducted during the period from October 2022 to December 2022 and utilized an online survey with a sample size of 1234 adults with a minimum age of 18 years. The survey consisted of questions regarding sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge of hypertension, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, and management.
Results: The results showed that most participants had a general understanding of hypertension, with the majority (79.7%) knowing the normal values of blood pressure and 63.7% understanding that it is a treatable condition. The most common source of knowledge about hypertension was through friends and family (53.1%).
Conclusions: The study highlights the need for continued education and awareness about hypertension in Saudi Arabia, particularly for those with limited education and older individuals.
Frequencies, clinicopathological features, and risk factors of type I and type II endometrial cancer; a retrospective observational study at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Talha , Hameed Ayesha Nasir , Tauqeer Hassan , Angez Meher , Aziz Aliya Begum
Published: April 2023

Background: Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most common gynecological malignancy worldwide. The death rates for EC have increased by more than 100% over the past 2 decades. EC is subdivided into two types based on distinct histological and clinical features: type I and type II. Our study aims to determine the risk factors and clinicopathological features of both type I and type II EC and draw a comparison between the two types based on frequency, risk factors and clinicopathological features.
Methods: It was a retrospective observational study including patients of a single tertiary care center. The study included Patients diagnosed, treated, and followed up for type I and type II endometrial cancer at the study center over the past 19 years from 1st January 2000 to 31st December 2018. All the patients with metastatic endometrial cancer were excluded from the study. SPSS version 26 was used for statistical analysis.
Results: A total of 376 patients were included in this study. Among these 343 (91.7) patients had endometroid adenocarcinoma (Type I) and 32 (8.3) had serous and clear cell tumor (type II).  Type I EC had a mean age of 57.56 (SD±10.42) while patients with type II EC presented with a mean age of64.97 (SD±6.59). Hypertension and Diabetes were the most common comorbid in EC patients. HRT prior to EC was found to have an association with risk of EC. Compared to patients who were on HRT, patients who were not on HRT prior to diagnosis of EC had 80% less chance of developing endometrial cancer. (Confidence interval: 0.056-0.114, p=0.016).
Conclusions: In summary our study demonstrates that both sub types of endometrial cancer have many risk factors that are similar to each other. Despite the difference between the population of both subgroups we were able to prove associations between risk factors and endometrial cancer. However further research is needed at provincial and national level with larger and relatively comparable sample sizes for both subgroups to recognize risk factors and numerically associate them to EC for Pakistani population.
Biomechanical analysis of the effect of ‘intermediate screws’ in short segment posterior fixation of unstable burst fractures of thoracolumbar spine in calf spine model
Authors: Azad Sait  , Monosha Priyadarshini  , Raj N. Arunai Nambi , David Kenny Samuel
Published: April 2023

Background: Efforts in preserving motion levels in unstable thoracolumbar burst fractures steered to short segment fixation. However, short segment spanning fixation in clinical scenario reported high failure rates.  Augmentation of spanning fixation by inserting intermediate screws into the fracture level is proposed to enhance stability. An experimental comparative study was performed to assess the biomechanical role of the ‘intermediate screws.’
Methods: Five calf spine specimens were freshly prepared to record the biomechanical characteristics, range of motion (ROM), and stiffness. CT scan confirmed an unstable burst fracture in each specimen. Each specimen was instrumented with short-segment posterior fixation with an intermediate screw. The same test protocols were repeated with and without intermediate screws.
Results: Intermediate screws contribute to 20.2%, 16.5%, 14.5% and 23% decrease in ROM and 15.4%, 25.6%, 48.3%, and 160.2% increase in construct stiffness.
Conclusions: Intermediate screws significantly increase the construct stiffness and decrease the ROM.
Outcome of treatment of intra-articular distal end radius fractures by volar locking plate versus bridging external fixator augmented by single K-wire through radial styloid
Authors: Vishal Prakash  , Neelu Singh  , Vinay Prabhat
Published: April 2023

Background: Distal radius fractures are common injuries occurring more frequently than any other fracture, and remain one of the most frequent skeletal injuries treated by orthopaedic or trauma surgeons. They are considered the most common fracture of the upper extremity.
The use of percutaneous pin fixation, external fixation devices that permit distraction and palmar translation, low-profile internal fixation plates and implants, arthroscopically assisted reduction, and grafting techniques including bone-graft substitutes all have contributed to improving fracture stability and outcome.
Methods: This is a prospective study consisting of 30 patients, who were treated with volar locking plate or K-wire augmented external fixation for intra-articular commented distal radius fractures (AO type C) at Rajendra institute of medical sciences between November 2020 and January 2023. The 15 patients were treated with open reduction using the volar approach and locking plate were used while 15 patients were treated with closed reduction under fluoroscopy, distraction with the external fixator (Joshi type external fixator) along with K-wire fixation for additional stability used.
Result: The ORIF with plating group showed better functional outcomes in Green and O'Brien compared to ex fix group. The radiographic results in the ORIF group were more favorable than in the EF group.
Conclusions: We found that both ORIF with plating and external fixation represent treatment choices for distal radius fractures. ORIF had better functional and radiological outcomes according to Green and O'Brien and Sarmiento scoring systems when compared to external fixation. ORIF had less incidence of complications compared with external fixation.
Interpretación de datos aeromagnéticos y gravimétricos satelitales para la identificación de zonas con potencial acuífero en la porción oeste de la cuenca Grijalva, México
Authors: Bustamante-Orozco Marco Rogelio , Medrano-Pérez Ojilve Ramón , Neri-Flores Iris , Ángeles-Cordero Edgar
Published: April 2023

El objetivo de esta investigación es interpretar las respuestas magnéticas y gravimétricas del subsuelo en la porción oeste en la cuenca Grijalva, México, para identificar y delimitar las áreas de unidades de rocas con potencial acuífero. Para ello, se realizó el procesamiento de datos aeromagnéticos y gravimétricos satelitales con el propósito de delimitar las características geológicas de mayor interés. Los resultados muestran que la parte centro-norte de la porción de estudio representa la zona con mayor potencial acuífero, y coincide con las áreas de mayor espesor sedimentario, de menor altitud y donde se concentran las concesiones de agua subterránea. Por tanto, el cambio de gradientes entre las respuestas magnéticas y gravimétricas favorecen el conocimiento del marco estructural (fallas, fracturas, bordes y contactos geológicos) y la inferencia de las áreas con potencial acuífero. En detalle, de las trasformaciones o filtros utilizados la Derivada Tilt (TDR, por sus siglas en inglés) presenta las tendencias lineales asociadas al marco estructural con particular interés hídrico. Se busca favorecer la toma de decisión y la investigación en los temas geohidrológicos, ordenamiento territorial y políticas públicas relacionadas.
Laffitteina from the Maastrichtian-Thanetian shallow marine carbonates of the Aures Basin (Northeastern Algeria): microfacies and stratigraphic distribution
Authors: Benmansour Sana
Published: April 2023

The Maastrichtian-Thanetian Ncham Member of the Aurès Basin in northeastern Algeria contains variably lenticular microfossils, which are defined as Laffitteina genera. It is a large benthic foraminifera, studied from three stratigraphic sections. The systematic study of Laffitteina led identification of nine species, four of which, Laffitteina marsicana, L. aff. mengaudi, L. monodi and L. erki were recorded for the first time in the study area. Various species of Laffitteina were used as index fossils to recognize the K/Pg transition in the Aurès Basin. The last occurrence of L. oztuerki marks the end of the Maastrichtian, which was found in association with Omphalocyclus macroporus (Lamarck) in the upper Maastrichtian. The first occurrence of L. erki marks the Thanetian age, while the Danian and Selandian deposits are missing in the field after a general emersion in the early Paleocene, despite the absence of a visible non unconformity. It could therefore be proposed that the K/Pg transition may occurs in the last 10 m of the Ncham Member. Concerning the paleoenvironment, Laffitteina is considered as a resistant foraminifera and thrives in meso- to eutrophic environments (lagoon). Microfacies data from the Upper Cretaceous-Lower Paleogene limestones of the Aurès Basin suggests a carbonate platform with shallowing-up sequential organization, mainly controlled by fluctuations in sea-level.
Estudio de la erosión de sedimentos en las cabeceras de las barrancas de Amalacaxco y Altzomoni (Parque Nacional Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl Zoquiapan, México) mediante luminiscencia ópticamente estimulada
Authors: Gómez Piña Víctor Manuel , Muñoz-Salinas Esperanza , Castillo Miguel , Franco-Ramos Osvaldo
Published: April 2023

El estudio del transporte de sedimentos es importante para comprender cómo operan los procesos erosivos sobre la superficie terrestre y tratar de manejar los recursos naturales de una manera óptima. En este trabajo se estudian los mecanismos de transporte superficial de sedimentos en dos cabeceras de alta montaña que tienen características topográficas y litológicas similares y que se localizan en un ecosistema de alto valor ecológico caracterizado por el zacatonal alpino. Estas cabeceras se distinguen en que una se encuentra en estado natural, localizada en la barranca de Altzomoni y, la otra, tiene implementadas prácticas de manejo consistentes en la construcción de zanjas de infiltración y aforestación, en la barranca de Amalacaxco. Ambas cabeceras se localizan dentro del Parque Nacional Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl Zoquiapan (centro de México). En el estudio se analizaron las señales de luminiscencia con la técnica de luminiscencia ópticamente estimulada (LOE) con la finalidad de comprender el grado de erosión que existe. Se estimó la luminiscencia de los dos depósitos que conforman la superficie de las dos cabeceras y se analizaron las señales de LOE en muestras tomadas en superficie en perfiles longitudinales a lo largo de la pendiente en tres periodos distintos de un año, ello para considerar la variabilidad asociada a los cambios estacionales. Los resultados indican que la mayoría de los materiales que se movilizan ladera abajo provienen del depósito superficial. Sin embargo, durante los meses que concentran la mayor pluviosidad y radiación solar, llegan a movilizarse puntualmente los materiales subsuperficiales, de más de 80 cm de profundidad, pero solo en la barranca de Amalacaxco. Esto indica que la erosión es mayor en la barranca donde se implementaron las técnicas de manejo, lo cual contrasta con lo que se observa en la barranca en estado natural. Se concluye que las técnicas de manejo aplicadas modifican la dinámica superficial y favorecen los procesos incisivos del zacatonal alpino. El uso del método utilizado es apropiado para estudiar los procesos erosivos en zonas de alta montaña.
Estudio arqueomagnético y radiométrico integrado de fogones prehispánicos del sitio arqueológico El Ocote (Aguascalientes, México)
Authors: García-Pimentel Alejandra , Cejudo Rubén , Goguitchaichvili Avto , Cervantes-Solano Miguel , Pelz Ana , García Ruíz Rafael , Morales Juan , Bautista Francisco
Published: April 2023

El sitio arqueológico EL Ocote es un asentamiento prehispánico distribuido sobre la cima y las laderas del cerro Los Tecuanes, al Suroeste de la capital del Estado de Aguascalientes, México. Los trabajos de investigación en el sitio comenzaron en el año 2000, los cuales permitieron proponer que el sitio tuvo su desarrollo durante el periodo Epiclásico, específicamente entre los años 650 d.C. y 900 d.C. A pesar de esta estimación, no se disponen de datos cronológicos absolutos pare este sitio. En este trabajo se realzó un muestreo arqueomagnético en dos fogones localizados en el sitio, a partir de esas muertas se prepararon 98 especímenes individuales. Con la finalidad de establecer la naturaleza de los minerales magnéticos presentes en ellos y determinar las componentes de la magnetización característica remanente que registraron al momento de su último uso, se realizaron experimentos de desmagnetización progresiva mediante campos alternos, curvas termomagnéticas continuas, ciclos de histéresis y curvas de magnetización remanente isotermal. Luego de establecer las direcciones medias para ambos fogones, se realizó una datación arqueomagnética mediante el modelo geomagnético global SHA.DIF.14K obteniéndose los intervalos de edad probables de 914 d.C. – 1079 d.C. y 924 d.C. – 1102 d.C. para el momento del último uso para el primer y segundo fogón, respectivamente. Adicionalmente, las direcciones medias fueron comparadas con las direcciones esperadas según el modelo geomagnético global SHAWQ2k y la curva de variación paleosecular (CVPS) local propuesta por Mahgoub et al., (2019). Se reportan también seis nuevas edades radiométricas obtenidas de restos de carbón localizados en varios fogones localizados en el sitio las cuales corresponden al periodo Epiclásico Mesoamericano. Las edades arqueométricas y radiométricas obtenidas para los fogones estudiados muestran corresponden con la cronología planteada para el periodo de abandono del sitio y de toda la región, sosteniendo la propuesta de un colapso prácticamente simultaneo en la toda sección norte de la Frontera Occidental Mesoamericana entre los años 900 d.C. y 1100 d.C., es decir hacia finales del periodo Epiclásico mesoamericano.
First occurrence in life position of two Triassic brachiopod species (Thecideida) from NE Italy: Paleoecological considerations
Authors: Torres-Martínez Miguel A. , Sánchez-Beristain Francisco , Reitner Joachim
Published: April 2023

The San Cassiano Formation from the Dolomites, NE Italy, is a Ladinian–Carnian (Middle – Upper Triassic) lithostratigraphic unit belonging to the Western Tethys domain. In this formation numerous groups of marine invertebrates from reef communities have been reported. In particular, brachiopods are represented by different orders. Thecideids are the most abundant and diverse, with different species of the genus Thecospira. Despite the apparent abundance, only one report exists of a thecideid of the genus preserved in life position: Thecospira tyrolensis. In this study, we describe and discuss the first finding of Thecospira semseyi and Thecospira tenuistriata in life position based on the study of thin sections of Cipit boulders. Seemingly, the Th. semseyi shells were not firmly attached to the substrate by a small cementation surface; therefore, they could have lived embedded into the biogenic matrix. By contrast, Th. tenuistriata displays an umbonal region modified in a cementation area, allowing the attachment to the bio-builder. Most samples don’t show any signal of transport since all specimens are articulated and are still attached to the substrate. Besides, the commissures are partially opened, free of any encrustation of sponge or bryozoan growing. The preservation of brachiopods suggests that the samples of both species were fossilized in life position. Moreover, Th. semseyi and Th. tenuistriata continued to live although the host’s fabric was imbibing the brachiopods’ ventral valve. This shows that thecideids were important components of Tethys reef communities.
Potencial de alcalinización de escorias siderúrgicas para el tratamiento de drenajes ácidos de minas
Authors: Glatstein Daniel Alejandro , Matías Francisca Franco
Published: April 2023

La minería resulta imprescindible para el desarrollo social, industrial y tecnológico de cualquier país, sin embargo los proyectos mineros mal gestionados pueden generar impactos negativos de gran severidad al ambiente y la salud humana. Entre estos impactos se encuentra el drenaje ácido de minas. Existen numerosos métodos físicos y químicos para el tratamiento del drenaje ácido de minas, pero la tendencia actual muestra una mayor eficiencia de los tratamientos pasivos, en particular con el uso de materiales naturales o residuales alcalinos. El presente trabajo analiza el potencial de alcalinización de dos tipos de escorias siderúrgicas, materiales históricamente considerados residuos de la industria metalúrgica. Las escorias fueron analizadas para identificar su composición química y verificar que no se haya alterado por la exposición ambiental, se observaron microscópicamente y se analizó la capacidad de neutralizar soluciones ácidas. Los resultados obtenidos muestran una gran variabilidad en la composición química de las escorias, producto de la variación en los procesos industriales. Se determinó una capacidad de alcalinización de 15 H+ equiv/kg de escoria de convertidor de oxígeno básico y 5 H+ equiv/kg de escoria de alto horno. Adicionalmente, las escorias de alto horno presentan una mejor hidraulicidad y mayor tamaño frente a las de convertidor de oxígeno básico. Estos resultados demuestran la potencialidad de estos subproductos como neutralizadores de drenaje ácido de mina en diferentes etapas del proceso de gestión de los residuos y efluentes mineros.
Pliocene freshwater isopods (Crustacea: Peracarida: Isopoda) from Jalisco, Mexico
Authors: García-Vázquez Leonardo , Alvarado-Ortega Jesús , Vega Francisco J.
Published: April 2023

A new genus and species of freshwater isopod is described from Pliocene volcanic sedimentary ashes found in an ancient lake basin in the Santa Rosa Dam region, Amatitlán, Jalisco, West-central Mexico. The new isopod is represented by a few corpses and molts. Due to the relatively poor preservation, no further morphological details can be offered to the moment, but the observed features are sufficient to distinguish this isopod from any living or fossil freshwater Sphaeromatidae species. This contribution extends the stratigraphic and geographic record of fossil isopod bearing localities in Mexico, being this the youngest fossil Peracarida recorded from this country.
Estudio morfométrico para la determinación de morfoalineamientos en el área de Mayarí, Cuba
Authors: Greenidge-Moro Sergio , Almaguer-Carmenates Yuri , Riverón-Zaldivar Amalia B.
Published: April 2023

El Mapa Geomorfológico de la República de Cuba a escala 1: 100 000, es uno de los proyectos desarrollados por el país para aumentar el grado de conocimiento geológico y optimizar el aprovechamiento de los recursos y condiciones naturales. El mapa lo conforman varias hojas topográficas, entre ellas se encuentra la de Mayarí 5077; la misma posee una elevada complejidad geólogo-estructural, lo que hace necesario profundizar en su conocimiento morfotectónico. Es por ello que se realiza la identificación y caracterización de morfoalineamientos, a partir de métodos morfométricos, análisis de la red de drenaje superficial y fotointerpretación. Los elementos lineales fueron extraídos, empleando el Sistema de Información Geográfica QGIS v3.16, y posteriormente superpuestos y correlacionados para obtener un Mapa final. Se determinó el número, longitud, orientación y densidad de los morfoalineamientos. Como resultado se identificaron 249, con una longitud promedio de 1422 m, orientación predominante N 40º – 50º E y secundaria N 50º – 60º E, asociadas a fallas laterales normales, pertenecientes al principal sistema de fracturación en la región, la dirección Nipe (NE – SO). Además, el análisis de su densidad permitió definir que las laderas noroeste de la Sierra de Nipe, y la zona de articulación de este grupo montañoso con la Sierra Cristal, constituyen las áreas de mayor debilidad tectónica, marcadas por elementos lineales preferentemente diagonales, que siguen la orientación de fallas y límites de morfoestructuras. La génesis del relieve del área de estudio está fuertemente condicionada por estructuras tectónicas, que han influido directamente en la intensidad de la actividad exogenética.
Biostratigraphy of Yazdanshahr No.2 section in Kerman area, Central Iran, based on conodont communities
Authors: Nasehi Ehsanollah , Nasehi Mohammad Amin
Published: April 2023

Yazdanshahr No.2 section, which consists mostly of Bahram and Sibzar formations is located in the Zarand city, northern Kerman province (Central Iran). Five biozones have been identified based on the conodont community. The first biozone, which includes Padehat (15 meter) and Sibzar formations (75 meter), was distinguished based on genera Bipennatus and Icriodus and the probable corresponding age was considered to span Emsian to Eifelian. The second biozone is recognized by the first appearance of index taxon Polygnathus varcus (varcus Zone: early to middle Givetian). The third biozone starts with the firth appearance of the index genus Icriodus expansus (expansus zone: middle Givetian). The base of the Fourth biozone is recognized by the first appearance of the genus I. subterminus (subterminus Zone: middle to late Givetian) and the last biozone was distinguished with the first appearance of genera Ancyrodella and Polygnathus incompletes in the Givetain-Frasnian boundary (falsiovalis to crepida Zone?: Frasnian to Famenian?). Bahram Formation (94 meter) consists of Fossiliferous limestone (varcus to subterminus Zone) at the lower part, and alternation of dolomite and sandstone (falsiovalis to crepida Zone?) at the upper part. Sibzar Formation consists of Middle Devonian dolomite and limy dolomite containing intercalation of sandstone and limestone layers.
Sequelas crônicas da chikungunya no contexto endêmico local: relato de experiência em estratégia de saúde da família seguindo o Arco de Maguerez
Authors: Lima João Paulo Medeiros Lucena , Sousa Milena Nunes Alves de
Published: April 2023

A Chikungunya é uma doença arboviral com potencial de causar surtos e epidemias, além de provocar repercussões negativas à saúde da população. Assim, considerando que a doença pode causar sequelas que afetam a ocupação, a vida social e a funcionalidade, o presente estudo tem o objetivo de relatar a experiência da assistência médica à pacientes acometidos pelo vírus e compreender as repercussões das sequelas crônicas no cotidiano, bem como evidenciar o papel do setor primário de saúde. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, qualitativo, do tipo relato de experiência, com reflexões subjetivas a partir de vivências da atuação de um médico residente numa Estratégia de Saúde da Família do município de Santa Luzia-PB. Evidenciou-se que as sequelas persistentes advindas da chikungunya são as dores articulares e musculoesqueléticas, e essas causam impacto no cotidiano, como: limitação das atividades de vida diárias; redução da produtividade no trabalho; estresse e ansiedade. Portanto, é essencial a atuação conjunta das formas de prevenção e recuperação de saúde, a fim de reduzir a magnitude das epidemias e dos agravos à saúde. Para isso, a Atenção Primária a Saúde baseia-se na atuação multiprofissional capaz de estimular a comunidade à mudança de hábitos favoráveis a qualidade de vida.
Evaluation of Environmental Risk Objects by Schoolchildren Living in Different Residential Areas
Authors:   Severodvinsk branch of the Pomor State University M. V. Lomonosov, ALYOSHINA N. A. , VINOGRADOV P. N. ,   Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia
Published: April 2023

This article presents materials of empirical research. It is shown that decision making training of teenagers in educational ecological situations leads to the convergence of their views about the objects of environmental risks that are relevant to humans and nature.
The specificity of subjective well-being web-designers
Authors:   Saratov State University, GRIGORYEV A. V.
Published: April 2023

The article presents the results of a theoretical analysis of the problem of subjective well-being web-designers. Analysis to be different factors affecting the specificity of the formation of a state of «satisfaction of labor."
Concept and essence of academic mobility of students: theoretical bases
Authors:   Ryazan State Radio Engineering University, MIKOVA I. M.
Published: April 2023

The article discusses theoretical bases of students’ academic mobility. The concept of a phenomenon academic mobility is specified. The author describes kinds of students’ academic mobility, reveals the peculiarities of their organization at high schools. The analysis of tasks on students’ academic mobility organization, facing Russian high school is resulted.
Age Estimation Using the Tooth Coronal Index on Mandibular First Premolars on Digital Panoramic Radiographs in an Indian Population
Authors: Sharma Sneha , Karjodkar Freny , Sansare Kaustubh , Mehra Archana , Sharma Ankit , Saalim Mohd
Published: April 2023

Objectives: Age estimation is a crucial aspect of forensic odontology, and the Tooth Coronal Index (TCI) has been widely used for forensic purposes in determining age. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effectiveness of TCI in age estimation.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, and TCI was calculated for the mandibular first premolar in 700 digital panoramic radiographs. Age was divided into five groups: 20-30 years, 31-40 years, 41-50 years, 51-60 years, and >61 years. Bivariate correlation was used to establish the relationship between TCI and age. Linear regression was calculated for the different age groups and genders. Inter-observer reliability and agreement were assessed using one-way ANOVA. P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: Comparison of the mean difference from actual age showed underestimation in males aged 20-30 years and overestimation in males over 60 years of age. The least difference between actual and calculated age was found in females aged 31-40 years. Inter-age comparison using ANOVA for females demonstrated a statistically highly significant difference from actual age in all age groups (P<0.01), with the highest mean in females aged 51-60 years and the lowest in females aged 31-40 years. Inter-group comparison of mean TCI revealed statistically non-significant differences in males and statistically highly significant differences in females (P<0.01).
Conclusion: Age estimation using TCI on mandibular first premolars can be recommended as an easy, non-invasive, and less time-consuming method. This study suggests that regression formulas were more accurate for males aged 31-40 years.
Cost-Effectiveness of Atrial Fibrillation Screening Strategies: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abolghasem Gorji Hassan , Khosravi‎ Majid , Mahmoodi Razieh , Hasoumi Mojtaba , Souresrafil Aghdas , Alipour Vahid , Rezapour Aziz , Hajahmadi Marjan , Azari Samad
Published: April 2023

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. AF is associated with an increased risk of stroke. We aimed to review systematically the cost-effectiveness of screening strategies for patients with AF.
Methods: To find related research and articles, articles published in Iranian and international databases by using a combination of MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms and based on inclusion and exclusion criteria were searched and reviewed until Dec 2020. The main outcome measures of the final articles were incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) per gained or additional quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), additional case detected, and avoided stroke.
Results: Out of 3,360 studies found, finally, fifteen studies were included in the research. The lowest ICER numerical value was 78.39 for AF screening using ECG for 65-85 yr old Japanese women. The highest value of this index is equal to 70864.31 for performing ECG monitoring for more than 60 d for Canadians over 80 yr without AF history. In two studies, the results were expressed with the years of life gained (YLG measure. Of course, in one study, the results were not reported with this measure, and in one study, the results were reported with ICER.
Conclusion: Most of the studies acknowledged the cost-effectiveness of different AF screening strategies. However, studies that confirmed the cost-effectiveness of population-based screening were more than studies that confirmed the cost-effectiveness of other screening strategies.
The Correlation between the First Trimester Combined Test Results and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Levels as well as Its Effect on Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Ozsoz Kolsuz Ezgi , Uysal Dilek , Gulbahar Aysegul
Published: April 2023

Background: Determining the pregnancy outcomes with independent prognostic factors in the first trimester combined screening test and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is a concern for practitioners. We aimed to evaluate the correlation between TSH and first trimester combined screening test levels and examine their effects on pregnancy outcomes in healthy pregnant women.
Methods: A total of 349 pregnant women in Izmir Ataturk Training and Research Hospital,Turkey with normal TSH values in the first trimester between 2015 and 2020 were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups as 274 and 75 patients according to TSH values with 2,5 as cut-off value; their birth weights and weeks were compared. Patients were also divided into three groups according to gestational weeks; their TSH values and combined tests were compared.
Results: When grouped based on the TSH threshold value (2.5uIU/ml), no significant relationship was found between the combined test parameters and TSH levels. In the combined test, after grouping according to the week of gestation, a negative correlation was observed between free beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and TSH measured at 11 weeks (P=0.040, r=-0.189). A significant negative correlation was found between free β-hCG and newborn birth weight (P=0.032, r=-0.199), TSH and delivery time (P=0.011, r=-0.235).
Conclusion: Free β-hCG and TSH levels could guide practitioners for birth weight and early delivery, respectively. Postponing the combined test for patients with elevated serum TSH levels to between the 12th and 13th weeks of gestation may reduce false positives.
Accelerated Apoptosis and Down-Regulated FMRP in Human Neuroblastoma Cells with CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing
Authors: Zhang Rong , Xu Huifen , Lu Jin , Chen Ying , Zhang Yahui , Xiao Li
Published: April 2023

Background: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a genetic disease with intellectual disabilities. FXS is often caused by the CGG-repeat expansion mutation in the FMR1 gene with suppressed FMR1 transcription and decreased protein levels in the brain of the patients. The RNA-guided CRISPR/Cas9 system is a promising targeted genomic editing tool in gene therapy of FXS. In order to evaluate its feasibility, the present study used CRISPR/Cas9 system to target the FMR1 5’-UTR sites in cultured human neuroblastoma cells.
Methods: PCR and DNA clone were used to construct plasmids. CRISPR function was tested by Western blot and flow cytometry. Data were analyzed by a two-tailed unpaired Student’s t-test using GraphPad software. This research was conducted from 2020 to 2022 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China.
Results: Cell cycle analysis showed significant differences in G1, S and G2/M phases between the two groups (P<0.05). In the knockout cells, apoptosis was accelerated (P<0.05) with a significantly down-regulated (P<0.05) expression of FMRP as compared with the control group.
Conclusion: This study provides further understanding about the FMRP function and molecular mechanism of FMR1 gene in nerve cells, and suggests the feasibility of gene therapy in FXS by CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system.
Relationship between a Low-Carbohydrate, High-Fat Diet and Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Korean Women
Authors: Jang Taejeong , Kim Hyesun , Kim Taehui
Published: April 2023

Background: Prevalence of metabolic syndrome with aging is higher in women than in men, and it increases after menopause. Interventions to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome in women are important. A low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet is effective in weight loss and improvement cardiovascular risk factors including abdominal circumference, blood pressure, and blood lipid profile. We aimed to determine the relationship between a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet and the risk of metabolic syndrome in Korean women.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from the 2014–2018 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Overall, 8,222 women aged >19 yr were included. The effect of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet on the risk of metabolic syndrome was analyzed by multiple logistic regression analysis using a complex sampling procedure.
Results: The diet significantly reduced the likelihood of metabolic syndrome development (P=0.044). In addition, regardless of the fat type, the diet significantly reduced the likelihood of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterolemia (low-carbohydrate, high-total fat, P=0.013; low-carbohydrate, high-unsaturated fat, P=0.006; low-carbohydrate, high-saturated fat, P=0.006).
Conclusion: A low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet is an important intervention that can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, and the reduced consumption of carbohydrates can decrease the risk of low high-density lipoprotein cholesterolemia regardless of fat type. Therefore, it is necessary to actively explore the potential of this diet, targeting Asians, including Koreans.
Catalpol Alleviates Depression by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome via TLR4/MAPK/NF-Κb Pathway
Authors: Liang Xuemei , Zhao Yuhuan , Xu Tianjiao , Wang Wei , Sun Weidong , Wang Rui
Published: April 2023

Background: We aimed to explore catalpol and NF-k. The role of antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects of b inhibitor in depression induced by chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS).
Methods: Under the guidance of Qiqihar Medical University, from January 2020 to January 2021, the weight, sucrose consumption and rest time of mice during swimming were monitored, the neurobehavioral changes of rats under CUMS were used to determine the experimental model; ELISA detection of iNOS, ROS, caspase-1, IL-1 β And IL-18 expression level; Western blotting detection of TLR4, MAPK and NF-κB expression level; LPS-induced cell model. INOS, NLRP3, caspase-1, IL-1 in RT-qPCR and ELISA detection models β And IL-18 expression level;the TLR4, MAPK and NF-κB level were detected by Western blotting.
Results: CUMS can make rats lose weight, reduce sucrose consumption rate and prolong rest time. Catapol can enhance this effect; In the depression model, ROS, NLRP3, NF-κ B and iNOS were up-regulated Catalpol group MAPK, NF-κ Reduced expression of B and TLR4; ROS, caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18 and iNOS protein increased. Cell model group TLR4, MAPK and NF-κ. The high protein content of B decreased in catalpol group.
Conclusion: Catalpol acts as anti-depressant and anti-inflammatory molecule indepression induced by CUMS. Combination of catalpol with NF-κB inhibitor might play a role in the treatment of depression through regulating the neuroinflammation.
Individual and Neighborhood Environmental Factors Affecting Healthy Eating among Korean Rural Adults
Authors: Kim Bongjeong , Min Yi Jeong
Published: April 2023

Background: Although it is recognized that social and environmental factors influence healthy eating behaviors, few studies have investigated the association between environmental factors and healthy eating among rural adults in Korea. We aimed to identify individual and neighborhood environmental factors influencing adherence to fruit and vegetable intake among adults living in rural areas using an ecological approach.
Methods: The study sample comprised 1,582 adults from 38 rural areas from Chungbuk Province, South Korea in 2017 who provided individual- and neighborhood-level data. Neighborhood-level data were obtained by aggregating individual-level responses measured for each residential town resulting in an average value for each neighborhood-level variable for the 38 rural areas. The data were merged and used for a series of multilevel logistic regression analyses.
Results: Among the individual-level factors, age, alcohol drinking, physical activity, self-efficacy for healthy eating, and social support for healthy eating were significantly associated with adherence to fruit and vegetable intake. Among the neighborhood-level factors, social cohesion and perceived neighborhood safety were significantly associated with adherence to fruit and vegetable intake.
Conclusion: Multifaceted intervention strategies to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables should include behavioral modification, social support, and improvement of neighborhood environments.
Evaluation of Smoking and Associated Factors in Turkey
Authors: Çakir Mustafa
Published: April 2023

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of tobacco products and associated factors in Turkey based on the Turkey Health Survey 2019 data conducted by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TUIK).
Method: The study was designed as a cross-sectional research. It was conducted by utilizing the “Turkey Health Survey 2019” microdata set from the Turkish Statistical Institute. The data of 17,084 people aged 15 years and over were evaluated.
Results: The study examined the data of 17,084 individuals aged ≥15 years surveyed by the TUIK. 27.2% of the participants used tobacco products every day, 3.4% used occasionally, and 54.2% never used them. Furthermore, 15.8% of the participants were exposed to secondhand smoking for ≥1 hour every day, while 7% were exposed to secondhand smoking for <1 hour every day in a closed environment. The reasons for starting to use tobacco products were friend influence for 33.4% of the participants, wannabe for 25.2%, and curiosity for 18.6%.
Conclusion: More than a quarter of people aged ≥15 years in Turkey smoke every day. The frequency of using tobacco products every day, the daily number of cigarettes smoked, and the frequency of exposure to tobacco products in closed areas were higher among men.
Analysis of the Epidemiologic Characteristics of Children with Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in China
Authors: Hu Haiyun , Ge Wei , Yan JanTing
Published: April 2023

Background: We aimed to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) and provide recommendations for its control and prevention.
Methods: A descriptive epidemiological analysis was designed for HFMD in children through direct network report from 2015 to 2019.
Results: From 2015 to 2019, a total 27,395 HFMD cases were reported at Infection Clinic of Shanghai Children’s Hospital, Shanghai, China, accounting for 79.24% of the number of reported notifiable infectious disease cases (34,573). The cases number increased since May and reached a peak from June to September, then decreased from October to December with a second small peak in some years. The proportion of cases in boys is higher than in girls (59.7% vs. 40.3%). The cases number of stay-at-home children was higher in 2016 and 2018 (60.07% and 60.95%) than in 2019 (33.47%), and that of kindergarten children and students in 2019 (51.73% and 9.75%) was significantly higher than in other years. Overall, 22606 cases were reported in <5 years group, accounting for 82.52% of the total number of cases during 2015-2019. The proportion of the cases in 5-10 and >10 years groups increased year by year from 2015 to 2019, which is statistically significant. (χ2=71.105, P=0.00；χ2=78.413，P=0.00)
Conclusion: The epidemiological characteristics of HFMD had changed during 2015-2019. Analysis of these data can provide helpful evidence to prevention and early treatment of the HFMD, and identification severe cases and handling the outbreaks.
Assessment on Application Effect of Intelligent Pressure Ulcer Information Management System Software
Authors: Guo Lanping , Lu Jing , Yang Xuan , Gong Lina
Published: April 2023

Background: We aimed to apply the intelligent pressure ulcer information management system software to hospitalized patients with pressure ulcer and to evaluate its application effect.
Method: Fifty patients hospitalized in the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China, a grade-A tertiary hospital from March 2021 to May 2021 were grouped into the control group. For these subjects, conventional electronic forms were used to report and manage pressure ulcer information. Another 50 patients with pressure ulcer were selected as the experimental group who were hospitalized the same hospital from June 2021 to August 2021.They were managed with Intelligent Pressure Ulcer Information Management System Software.
Results: The effects of the two management methods were assessed by comparing the reporting time, the degree of pressure ulcer healing 1 week after the occurrence of pressure ulcer and after discharge, and the nurse satisfaction. The reporting time and Design-R scores 1 week after the occurrence of pressure ulcer and after discharge were significantly lower than those of the control group (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The pressure ulcer information management system makes the reporting process simple and convenient, which saves the reporting time, improves the accuracy of the pressure ulcer staging. It achieved the guidance for various stages of pressure ulcer treatment program, the use of dressing guidance, improved the accuracy of pressure ulcer treatment program, which is worthy of clinical reference.
Correlation between Ethical Sensitivity as Well as Doping Attitude and Dispositions in Taekwondo Kyorugi Athletes: Athlete Career and National Team Moderation Effect
Authors: Jeon Minsoo , Lim Hyosung , Yun Hyo-Jun , Oh Hyeri
Published: April 2023

Background: We aimed to examine the effect of ethical sensitivity on doping attitude and dispositions for Taekwondo athletes, as well as whether there was a difference depending on the athlete's career and national team status.
Methods: Overall, 331 Korean adult Taekwondo athletes were enrolled. Data were collected using sports ethical sensitivity and Performance Enhancement Attitude Scale (PEAS) tools as the research tools. For data processing, frequency analysis was performed to confirm demographic characteristics, and the fitness index was calculated by applying the Rasch model to confirm the validity and reliability of ethical sensitivity and PEAS. An independent sample t-test was performed to confirm the difference between ethical sensitivity and doping attitude and dispositions according to demographic characteristics. Pairwise parameter comparison values ​​were used using multi-group analysis of path analysis to confirm the effect of ethical sensitivity on PEAS and the moderating effect was calculated.
Results: First, according to the demographic characteristics of Taekwondo athletes, there were statistically significant differences in ethical sensitivity and PEAS only by gender. Second, as ethical sensitivity factors, both intentional behavior factors and intentional collusion factors had statistically significant effect on PEAS. Third, in the effect of ethical sensitivity on doping attitude and dispositions, there was no moderating effect of athlete experience and national representative status.
Conclusion: Ethical sensitivity has a positive linear correlation with PEAS. In other words, enhancing the ethical sensitivity of sports players will enhance athletes’ ethical consciousness and prevent unethical behavior, and furthermore, doping.
Ovarian Cancer in Iran: National Based Study
Authors: Akbari Atieh , Azizmohammad Looha Mehdi , Moradi Afshin , Esmaeil Akbari Mohammad
Published: April 2023

Background: Ovarian cancer (OC) is the 7th most common cancer, with 239,000 new cases per year. In Iran, it is the 8th most common cancer, with an ASIR of 3.9/100,000 women. The 5-year overall survival in Iran based on previous studies is about 61% which in comparison with eastern countries has better survival.
Methods: The study included patients from the Iran National Cancer Registry from 2009-2014. Several steps were taken to control data quality. This study used a Kaplan-Meier survival curve to compare OC survival rates across geographical, pathological, and other variables. All analyses were done in R (4.02) and SPSS (26), with a 0.05 P-value considered statistically significant.
Results: The study enrolled 7977 cases of OC. OC's ASIR was 4.10/100,000. In epithelial and non-specific OC, ASIR was >0.5. Five-year survival was 55% and 10-year survival was 45%.
Conclusion: OC is the 8th most common cancer in Iran, with lower age-specific incidence and better overall survival than East Asia and North America. In Iran, as in Eastern Europe, OC incidence correlated with reduced total fertility rate and population aging. Five and 10-year overall survival rates were 55% and 44%, respectively, higher than the West. This may be because late stage OC patients are excluded from pathology and classified as “undiagnosed” in death certificates or hospitalization files.