bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Leg Hop Performance After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Ready for Landing but Cleared for Take-Off?
Authors: Rush Justin L. , Murray Amanda M. , Sherman David A. , Gokeler Alli , Norte Grant E.
Published: May 2024

Context

Although the landing phases of the single-leg hop for distance (SLHD) are commonly assessed, limited work reflects how the take-off phase influences hop performance in patients with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR).

Objective

To compare trunk and lower extremity biomechanics between individuals with ACLR and matched uninjured controls during take-off of the SLHD.

Design

Cross-sectional study design.

Setting

Laboratory setting.

Patients or Other Participants

Sixteen individuals with ACLR and 18 uninjured controls.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Normalized quadriceps isokinetic torque, hop distance, and respective limb symmetry indices were collected for each participant. Sagittal and frontal kinematics and kinetics of the trunk, hip, knee, and ankle as well as vertical and horizontal ground reaction forces were recorded for loading and propulsion of the take-off phase of the SLHD.

Results

Those with ACLR had weaker quadriceps peak torque in the involved limb (P = .001) and greater strength asymmetry (P < .001) than control individuals. Normalized hop distance was not statistically different between limbs or between groups (P > .05), and hop distance symmetry was not different between groups (P > .05). During loading, the involved limb demonstrated lesser knee flexion angles (P = .030) and knee power (P = .007) than the uninvolved limb and lesser knee extension moments than the uninvolved limb (P = .001) and controls (P = .005). During propulsion, the involved limb demonstrated lesser knee extension moment (P = .027), knee power (P = .010), knee (P = .032) and ankle work (P = .032), and anterior-posterior ground reaction forces (P = .047) and greater knee (P = .016) abduction excursions than the uninvolved limb.

Conclusions

Between-limb differences in SLHD take-off suggest a knee underloading strategy in the involved limb. These results provide further evidence that distance covered during SLHD assessment can overestimate function and fail to identify compensatory biomechanical strategies.
Recurrent Tubercular Episcleritis
Authors: Aldebasi Tariq M. , Alasiri Abdulelah , Alnahdi Muhannad A.
Published: May 2024

Ocular tuberculosis (TB) is one of the extrapulmonary manifestations of mycobacterium TB. Episcleritis is a rare entity that may affect patients in endemic areas of TB. In this paper, we report a case of presumed recurrent episcleritis attributed to TB. TB should be kept as a possible cause of recurrent simple episcleritis upon encountering patients with endemic backgrounds to prevent the complication sequalae and halt recurrence.
Application of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in aortic aneurysm
Authors: Moro Rodríguez Rubén T. , Olivera Daylin Ricardo , Valdes Cantero Jose Luis , Ferrer Vielka Gonzalez
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Aortic aneurysms have among their main factor for rupture, growth, produced by the weakening of the aneurysmal wall influenced by different risk factors.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

A 5-year investigation was carried out with a group of 63 patients with aortic aneurysms who, for different reasons, were not operated on during the study period. They were divided into two groups, one called a study with 48 patients and another with 15 who use in the study group, ibuprofen-based medical treatment (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs) in doses of 800 mg per day and sixmonthly ultrasound controls throughout the period of the investigation, measuring the aneurysmal diameters to demonstrate the growth, detection or reduction of the same.

RESULTS:

The usefulness and efficacy of the use of NSAIDs in the field of medical treatment of aortic aneurysms was demonstrated, since during the investigation of the two study groups, we achieved higher survival rates for the group treated with NSAIDs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Through growth control as the main rupture factor and therefore a complication that in most cases is fatal, we achieved a reduction in the aneurysmal diameter in a number of patients with higher survival rates than in the control group. Graphs up to 5 years are presented that support the results achieved.
Clinical improvement after stenting for chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction
Authors: Jayaraj Arjun , Raju Seshadri
Published: May 2024

A review of large studies where patients underwent stenting for symptomatic chronic iliofemoral venous obstruction (CIVO) and had validated clinical and/or quality of life metrics with a follow-up of at least 12 months was performed. Such studies were identified through searches of the MEDLINE and Embase databases in addition to a search of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using appropriate search terms. These studies demonstrated that venous stenting is a durable intervention that confers clinical and quality of life improvement in patients with symptomatic CIVO who have failed conservative therapy. While significant improvement is common, complete resolution is rare, and in such patients, consideration should be given to treatment of other concomitant diagnoses including deep venous reflux, lymphedema, and chronic compartment syndrome.
Molecular mechanism of Si-Miao-Yong-An decoction in the treatment of diabetic foot microcirculation and network pharmacology information analysis results
Authors: Wei Zhao , Mingyang Dong , Dikang Pan , Yanbo An , Le Tong , Zhongkai Yang , Jing Zhang , Bonan Lv , Xiaoming Shi
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to explore the effect and mechanism of Si-Miao-Yong-An decoction (SMYAD) on diabetic foot by simulating the microenvironment of diabetic foot in vitro, and further verify these results using bioinformatics analysis technology, in order to provide a basis for the treatment of diabetic foot with traditional Chinese medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were cultured under hypoxia to simulate the microcirculation of diabetic foot. Then, these were administered with SMYAD for intervention. Afterward, the cell viability was detected by MTT assay, the apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and the STAT3 signaling pathway and Bcl-2 and Bax protein expression were detected by Western blot. Next, TCMSP was used to determine the chemical composition and target gene information of the SMYAD, and the GeneCards database was used to search for the disease-related target gene information of diabetic foot. Furthermore, the Venny 2.1 online software was used to screen and obtain the drug–disease common target genes for the SMYAD and diabetic foot. The common target genes were entered into the STRING database for retrieval, in order to construct the network diagram for protein-related action, and the R software was used to analyze the pathway enrichment, in order to explore the mechanism of the SMYAD in the treatment of diabetic foot microcirculation.

RESULTS:

Compared with the control group, the SMYAD increased the activity of HUVECs cultured in the hypoxia state but decreased the apoptosis rate. Furthermore, the protein expression of p-STAT3 and Bcl-2 increased, and the protein expression of Bax decreased (P < 0.05). A total of 235 drug-related target genes were found by screening, and 4553 target genes related to diabetic foot were obtained. The Venny software analysis revealed that there were 171 drug–disease interaction target genes. The STRING database and the GO and KEGG functional enrichment analysis revealed that STAT3, AKT, MAPK, and other proteins were involved, and that these may be correlated to the mechanism of the SMYAD in the treatment of diabetic foot microcirculation.

CONCLUSION:

SMYAD can affect the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax genes by regulating the activity of the STAT3 signaling pathway, playing a role in the treatment of diabetic foot.
Screening for Psychosocial Morbidity in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in an Urban Setting
Authors: Ali Mazher , Mateen Syed , Ahmed Arifuddin , Vaseem Ayesha , Nasirabadi Minhaj Zafar , Sethi Bipin Kumar , Rahman Ateeq Ur
Published: May 2024

Background:

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease caused by absolute insulin deficiency. As per 2015 estimates, the number of affected children (<15 years) in India is estimated to be 70,200 children,[1] contributing almost 8% of the global burden. It poses additional challenges in the form of emotional stress and psychosocial adjustment problems.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study on 101 subjects. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to survey mental health symptoms and positive attitudes. The Quality of Life (QoL) Questionnaire was used to assess the QoL.

Results:

The prevalence of Total difficulties score (TDS) with clinically significant problems was seen in 17.6% of the children. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between HbA1c levels and parent-reported TDS scores (r = 0.692, P < 0.0001). As the HbA1c levels increase, the peer problems (r = 0.322, P = 0.008) and prosocial behavior problems (r = −0.254, P = 0.028) significantly increased.

Conclusion:

The most common abnormal SDQ scores were found in conduct problems (38.2%) and emotional problems (35.3%). Regular monitoring of lipid profile, blood pressure, and renal indices is important to observe the effects of T1DM on end organs, along with timely screening of children and adolescents for diabetes and psychosocial illness, educating the caregivers about diabetes, monitoring of diet, psychosocial illness, and means to cope with them, which can also improve the psychological well-being and in turn QoL of children and adolescents.
Coronary arteriopathy in a patient with Noonan phenotype: Case report
Authors: Jain Simran , Ravindra M. S. , Sathe Yogesh Chintaman , Kulkarni Snehal M. , Banpurkar Ashish
Published: May 2024

Noonan syndrome (NS) is a pleomorphic genetic disorder. Up to 50-80% of individuals have associated congenital heart disease. The scope of cardiac disease in NS is quite variable depending on the gene mutation. The most common forms of cardiac defects include pulmonary stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), atrial septal defect and left-sided lesions. Amongst the rare vascular abnormalities few case reports have been mentioned about coronary artery lesions apart from sinus of Valsalva aneurysm, aortic dissection, intracranial aneurysm. This is a case report a rare case of asymptomatic coronary artery aneurysm in a young male with NS. There is lack of unified protocol for the screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of coronary artery disease in patients with NS. We conclude, echocardiography is sufficient in most cases in children. But a CT scan is appropriate in adults or when other lesions are suspected.
Alternative technique for femoral access in neonates undergoing cardiac catheterization
Authors: McCay Nicola , Walsh Keviin
Published: May 2024

We report an alternative technique for femoral access in neonates <3.5 kg undergoing cardiac catheterization. By modifying a 0.014” Balance middleweight Elite wire and using a 24-gauge Galt introducer needle, we have noted increased ease and success in obtaining vascular access in this challenging cohort.
Aortico right atrial tunnel – Clinical presentation, transcatheter management, and follow-up from a large cohort of patients
Authors: Sivakumar Kothandam , Singhi Anil Kumar , Sankarakuttalam Ramkishore , Rajendran Monica
Published: May 2024

Background:

Aortico right atrial tunnel (ARAT) is a rare extracardiac communication between the aorta and the right atrium with two anatomical types. A recent global review identified 59 patients.

Methods:

Patients with ARAT from two centers were analyzed for their demographics, symptoms, morphology, management, and follow-up thromboprophylaxis.

Results:

Among 21 patients including 8 males with a median age of 3 years (18 days–72 years) diagnosed as ARAT, 12 (57%) had posterior tunnels and 9 had anterior tunnels. Four patients had multiple exits. Eighteen tunnels were closed after arteriovenous circuit formation. Six patients (29%) weighing <10 kg presented early with heart failure. Transcatheter closure normalized the hemodynamics including in one infant after failed surgery. Two elderly patients (10%) above 60 years presented with angina and atrial fibrillation. The rest were asymptomatic. Occluders were positioned in the narrow proximal aortic end of the tunnel in all except two patients, where the distal atrial end was closed. All procedures were successful without complications. There was one late death after 1 year from subarachnoid hemorrhage. At a median follow-up of 96 months, all survivors were asymptomatic. Thromboprophylaxis with dual antiplatelets for 1–2 years followed earlier was recently changed to aspirin with Coumadin. Complete remodeling occurred when the proximal aortic end was closed, but partial persistence of the track was noted after distal closure.

Conclusions:

This largest cohort of ARAT showed the safety and efficacy of transcatheter closure even in neonates. The narrow proximal aortic end should be the target for closure rather than the distal atrial end to achieve complete remodeling.
Percutaneous closure of multiple atrial septal defects in a child utilizing three Occlutech Figulla septal occluders: A bailout
Authors: Bulbul Ziad , Hussein Haytham Bou , Sawaya Fadi , Bitar Fadi
Published: May 2024

We describe a unique report of percutaneous closure of multiple secundum atrial septal defects in a child utilizing three Occlutech Figulla septal occluders deployed sequentially. The procedure was performed under live three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography guidance.
Open-heart surgery in preterm infants: A single-center experience
Authors: Memon Danish , Bayya Praveen Reddy , Bendapudi Perraju , Jayashankar Jessin Puliparambil , Kottayil Brijesh Parayaru , Srimurugan Balaji , Kumar Raman Krishna
Published: May 2024

Background:

Open-heart surgery is challenging in preterm neonates and infants, and its feasibility in low-resource settings has not been defined. We describe our institutional experience with open-heart surgeries performed on consecutive preterm infants.

Materials, Methods and Results:

This was a single-center retrospective cohort from a tertiary hospital in Southern India and included consecutive preterm neonates (<37 weeks) admitted for open-heart surgery. This report is limited to babies who were <3 months at the surgery. The salient features of the 15 preterm included twin gestation: 7 (46.7%); median gestational age at birth: 35 weeks (28–36 weeks); median corrected gestational age at surgery: 37 weeks (33–40 weeks); birth weight: 1.75 kg (1.0–2.6 kg); weight at surgery: 1.8 kg (1.2–2.9 kg); and small for gestational age: 12 (80%). The heart defects included transposition of the great arteries (7), total anomalous pulmonary venous return (3), large ventricular septal defect (VSD) (1), and VSD with coarctation of the aorta (4). Eleven (73%) were mechanically ventilated preoperatively and five had preoperative sepsis. The mean cardiopulmonary bypass time was 169.7 ± 61.5 min, and cross-clamp time was 99.7 ± 43.8 min. There was no inhospital mortality; one baby expired during follow-up at 1 month. Postoperative mechanical ventilation duration was 126.50 h (84.25–231.50 h), and intensive care unit stay was 13.5 days (9–20.8). The total hospital stay was 39 days (11–95 days). Two children (13.3%) had postoperative sepsis.

Conclusion:

Through collaborative multidisciplinary management, excellent outcomes are feasible in low-resource environments for selected preterm neonates undergoing corrective open-heart operations.
An in vitro evaluation of canal transportation and centering ability of ProTaper Universal, Hyflex EDM, and WaveOne gold using microcomputed tomography
Authors: Ravichandran Ashwin , Baskaran Veni Ashok , Gopal Shankar Narayanan , Motilal Venkatesan S. , Rajasekaran Meenakshisundram , Ramachandran Anil Kumar
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The study was to determine and compare the values of canal transportation and centering ability of ProTaper Universal (PTU), Hyflex EDM (HEDM), and WaveOne GOLD (WOG) using microcomputed tomography (Micro-CT).

Methods:

Sixty mandibular molar mesiobuccal canals were randomly allocated into three groups, each with 20 samples: PTU (group one), HEDM (group two), and WOG (group three). Micro-CT was used to scan samples before and after instrumentation. Three-dimensional scans of root cross-sections at 3 mm, 6 mm, and 9 mm from the apex were obtained to measure canal transportation and centering ability. For statistical analysis, SPSS software was utilized. P = 0.05 was used as the significance level.

Results:

When compared all three systems, PTU files had the highest transportation and were less centered. HEDM and WOG showed no significant difference (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Curved roots canals were shaped without any significant canal transportation by Hyflex EDM and WOG when compared with PTU files.
A multidisciplinary approach toward the replacement of missing maxillary anterior teeth using impacted mesiodens as abutment via “reverse endodontic treatment”
Authors: Mittal Sunandan , Aggarwal Vivek , Munjal Sudhir , Kumar Tarun , Keshav Vanita , Kaur Anmolpreet , Kaur Arshpreet
Published: May 2024

The case report presents the rehabilitation of a missing maxillary anterior tooth. The case was complicated by the presence of an inverted, impacted mesiodens, which led to the impaction of the permanent maxillary central incisor. The apical area of the mesiodens was surgically exposed, and the endodontic treatment was carried out via the root apex in an apicocoronal direction. The case was restored with an angulated post–core crown. This case highlights an unusual placement of mesiodens and its challenging endodontic rehabilitation.
Accuracy of electronic apex locator in the presence of different irrigating solutions
Authors: Jha Padmanabh , Nikhil Vineeta , Raj Shalya , Ravinder Rohit , Mishra Preeti
Published: May 2024

Aim: The

aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the apex locator in the presence of different irrigating solutions.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty humans, single canal mandibular premolars were decoronated, and canal orifices were flared with Gates-Glidden drills. Working length (Gold standard [GS]) was measured under ×3.5 magnification by inserting a size 10 K file until the tip became visible and deducting 0.5 mm from this length. Teeth were embedded in an alginate mass. Electronic apex locator (EAL) measurements were made with Propex II, while different irrigants were placed in the root canals with 30G needle and groups were made based on the type of irrigating solution used i.e., Group I (3% NaOCl), Group II (5% NaOCl), Group III (2% Chlorhexidine), and Group IV (17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid). Statistical analysis was performed.

Results:

Statistically insignificant differences were observed between the GS and EAL lengths among all the groups. There were significant differences (P < 0.05) only between Group III as compared to Group II and Group I.

Conclusion:

EAL can be used to accurately measure the working length, even in the presence of irrigating solutions. Of the irrigating solutions tested, least effect on the accuracy of EAL was seen with 2% chlorhexidine and the highest effect was seen with 5% NaOCl.
Assessment of heat transfer to periodontal tissues and stress distribution in a tooth with simulated internal resorption cavities at different root levels using two thermoplasticized obturation systems – A finite element analysis study
Authors: Hegde Vibha Rahul , Jain Pritisha Bharat , Bhagat Pooja Sunil
Published: May 2024

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the heat transfer to periodontal tissues and stress distribution within simulated roots with internal root resorption cavities at three different levels using two thermoplasticized obturation systems using finite element analysis.

Methods:

Maxillary central incisors with single canals were chosen for the construction of the simulation and geometric models. Cone beam computed tomography scan of a skull was used to model the periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. Construction of the simulating model and geometric model and conversion to finite element model was conducted with three-dimensional tetrahedral elements at three different levels. These three models were duplicated for stress distribution and heat transfer analysis during the down packing and backfilling procedure to periodontal tissues. A simulation of root canal preparation and obturation procedures was conducted using ANSYS 19.2 software, and static structural, steady-state thermal, and transient analysis were carried out.

Results:

The total average stress was the highest when the resorption cavity was in the middle third (1.72 Mpa) for the calamus dual obturation system. The total average temperature observed was the highest when the resorption cavity was in the middle third (37.4°C) for the elements free obturation system and in the apical third (53.73°C) for the calamus dual obturation system.

Conclusion:

It was observed that between the two systems, elements free obturation system led to lower heat transfer and heat flux during the down packing procedure in comparison to the calamus dual obturation system, and the remaining dentin thickness was directly proportional to the amount of heat transferred to the surrounding tissues.
Comparative evaluation of apically extruded debris during root canal instrumentation using Neoendo Flex, Pro-HS, and Mani Silk
Authors: Guha Ananya , Shivangi Shreya , Jain Rishabhkumar , Rao Rahul Dayanand , Verma Meenakshi R , Jain Ashish K
Published: May 2024

Background:

Biomechanical preparation of the root canal system is one of the most crucial steps of endodontic treatment. Intracanal debris is invariably extruded during biomechanical preparation which causes inflammation of periradicular tissues leading to flare-up.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to evaluate and compare the amount of apical extrusion of debris using Neoendo Flex, Pro-HS, and Mani Silk rotary files during root canal preparation.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty premolars with straight, single root canals were selected for the study. After access opening and working length determination, the samples were randomly divided into four groups according to file system used for root canal preparation: Group I – Neoendo Flex (n = 15), Group II – Pro-HS (n = 15), Group III – Mani Silk (n = 15), and Group IV – No instrumentation (n = 15). The debris collected after biomechanical preparation was quantitatively determined using a precision balance. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using ANOVA and post hoc Dunnett's test.

Results:

Minimum debris extrusion was seen with Neoendo Flex files and maximum debris extrusion was seen with Pro-HS files but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Within the limitations of our in vitro study, it can be concluded that all Nickel– Titanium (NiTi) file systems studied caused apical extrusion of debris. Neoendo flex extruded least amount of debris apically compared to Mani Silk and Pro-HS files. Design features of a file primarily influence the amount of extruded debris.
The effect of cinnamon and ginger essential oils against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm
Authors: Falcon Carla Yvonne , Abdelkarim Sally , Falcon Paul A. , Hirschberg Craig S. , Cugini Carla
Published: May 2024

Aim:

Enterococcus faecalis has gained attention in the endodontic literature as it is frequently isolated from root canals in cases of failed treatments. Current medicaments are unlikely to predictably achieve a bacteria-free root canal system, which can lead to these failures. Phytotherapeutic substances are attractive medicaments as they are generally safe and well tolerated. This study evaluated the antimicrobial potential of two phytotherapeutic agents, cinnamon and ginger oils, against in vitro preformed biofilms of an oral strain of E. faecalis.

Methods:

A biofilm of E. faecalis was grown in 96-well plate under anaerobic conditions to simulate root canal conditions during reinfection. The biofilms were treated with 1% cinnamon oil in brain–heart infusion (BHI) media or saline, which were compared to the widely used medicament, calcium hydroxide, under the same conditions. A 2,3-bis (2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-5-([phenylamino] carbonyl)-2H-tetrazolium hydroxide assay was employed for measuring cell viability. All tests were performed with a minimum of five technical replicates and in biological triplicate. A single biological trial was also conducted using 1% ginger oil following the same protocol. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis and Student's t-tests.

Results:

Cinnamon oil demonstrated antimicrobial activity in the eradication of E. faecalis biofilm. A statistically significant difference was detected between 1% cinnamon oil and 0.1% calcium hydroxide (P < 0.05). Ginger oil also displayed a reduction of the biofilm. Both oils showed a significant difference between BHI and saline conditions (P < 0.05), in which the biofilm reduction was maximized in saline.

Conclusion:

Cinnamon oil may provide a potential adjunctive therapy in treating endodontic infections associated with E. faecalis.
Revascularization of an immature necrotic permanent mandibular second premolar with dens evaginatus
Authors: Kang Kwa Zheng , Penukonda Raghavendra , Pattar Harshada , Al-Haddad Afaf
Published: May 2024

Dentists face a challenge when treating necrotic immature teeth with periapical pathology because apexification techniques leave the tooth vulnerable to fracture. After all, the roots are not matured, and the canal walls are thin. Pulp revascularization is a regenerative endodontic procedure that emerged as a viable treatment for apical closure, continued root development, and dentinal wall thickening with successful clinical and radiographical outcomes. In this case report, an 11-year-old boy complained of pain and associated swelling in the lower left posterior teeth region, diagnosed as pulp necrosis with acute apical abscess of an immature tooth with dens evaginatus (DE). After periapical radiographs, drainage was done through the access cavity, and a regenerative endodontic procedure was performed with the final restoration of composite resin. This report emphasizes the successful management of an immature necrotic permanent mandibular second premolar with DE using a revascularization procedure.
A simplified and cost-effective targeted endodontic guide for calcified canal negotiation and surgical management
Authors: Pradeepa M. R. , Rahul B. , Valliappan C. T. , Sherwood I. Anand , Gutmann James L. , Subramani Rathna Piriyanga , Sivakumar A. Andamuthu
Published: May 2024

Management of pulp canal obliteration and apicoectomy procedures with an endodontic guide is presented in multiple cases. This case report series highlights a cost-effective guide construction approach using an open-source cone-beam computed tomography software, ITK-snap. A simple soft template was used as a guide for successful access of calcified canals and osteotomy preparation with reduction of unwarranted adjacent tissue damage.
Periapical lesions in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome
Authors: Rotstein Ilan , Katz Joseph
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of acute periapical lesions in patients with pSS.

Methods:

Integrated data of hospital patients was used. Data from the corresponding diagnosis codes for pSS and acute periapical abscess was retrieved by searching the appropriate query in the database. The patient population analyzed was mixed, presenting with different disease conditions including periapical abscesses without sinus. The different diagnoses were coded using the international coding systems ICD 10. Diagnosis was made by calibrated dentists in a hospital setting based on clinical examination and imaging data. Patients with ICD 10 diagnosis code of acute periapical abscess were recorded and the prevalence of acute periapical abscesses in patients with primary Sjögren syndrome were compared to the prevalence in the total hospital patient population. The odds ratio (OR) for the prevalence of acute periapical abscesses and its association with pSS were calculated with a 95% confidence interval and the statistical difference between the groups was assessed.

Results:

The odds ratio (OR) for the prevalence of acute apical abscesses and its association with pSS were calculated and analyzed statistically. The prevalence of periapical abscesses in patients with pSS was 1.87% as compared to 0.58% in the general patient population of the hospital. The OR was 3.11 and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.0001).

Conclusions:

Under the conditions of this study, it appears that the prevalence of acute periapical abscesses is significantly higher in patients with pSS.
Antimicrobial efficacy of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Euclea divinorum Hiern on tooth root canal microorganisms
Authors: Maina Susan Wanjiku , Dimba Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study is to determine the antimicrobial efficacy of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Euclea divinorum Hiern against some root canal microorganisms compared to conventional root canal irrigants.

Settings and Design:

An in vitro laboratory study at the University of Nairobi.

Materials and Methods: E. divinorum branches were collected, dried, and ground into coarse powder. The aqueous filtrates were lipolyzed while the ethanol filtrates were reduced under vacuum and oven-dried into powder. Growth inhibition of cell cultures from pure strains of Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC® 29212™), Streptococcus mutans (ATCC ®25175™), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC® 25923™), Fusobacterium nucleatum (ATCC®25586™), Lactobacillus acidophilus (ATCC® 4356™), and Candida albicans (ATCC® 24433™) by the extracts were determined using tenfold liquid microdilution incubated for 24 and 48 h at 37°C. Cytotoxicity of the extracts was compared to those of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, 2% chlorhexidine gluconate, and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's HSD test were used to test for differences between the mean growth inhibition of the extracts and the controls.

Results: Fifty mg/ml ethanol extract had the highest growth inhibition at 99% ±3.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) (9.24, 100.755) against F. nucleatum followed by S. aureus at 97.22% ±3.77, 95% CI (95.04, 99.39) for 48 h incubation. S. mutans, L. acidophilus, and C. albicans showed resistance to the cytotoxic effects of the plant extracts. The mean growth inhibitions of 50 mg/ml ethanol extract against E. faecalis, and S. aureus were similar to those of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and 17% EDTA for 24 h incubation while being higher against F. nucleatum at P < 0.01(Tukey's HSD).

Conclusion: Fifty mg/ml E. divinorum extracts showed growth inhibition against E. faecalis, S. aureus, and F. nucleatum which was similar to the efficacy of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. S. mutans, L. acidophilus, and C. albicans showed resistance to the cytotoxic effects of the extracts.
Auto irrigate - The continuous irrigant delivery and intracanal aspiration system
Authors: Garain Ridyumna , Pai Veena S. , Krishnakumar G. R. , Bharathi M. , Vedavathi B. , Karim Jibin
Published: May 2024

Aims:

To compare the delivery of irrigant to the apical third of the root canals using an ingeniously designed continuous irrigation and intracanal aspiration system to standard irrigation techniques.

Methods:

Sixty-six freshly extracted single-rooted mandibular second premolars of similar dimensions with a single straight canal, confirmed radiographically, were selected and divided into three groups (n = 22) based on irrigation techniques employed: (i) manual dynamic activation, (ii) passive ultrasonic activation, and (iii) the system designed by the authors. Standard oval-shaped access cavities were prepared and the working length was determined radiographically. Instrumentation with ProTaper F2 rotary files was followed by irrigation with 2.5% NaOCl and saline using a 2.5 ml syringe and needle for Groups 1 and 2, and the irrigant delivery system for Group 3. A prefinal rinse with EDTA and a final rinse with saline was also carried out. Apical delivery of irrigant was evaluated by flooding the root canals with 1% toluidine blue dye for 30 seconds. The specimens were decoronated and split vertically and labiolingually and visualized under a stereomicroscope (×5 magnification) and photographed. The images were analyzed using ImageJ software to measure the unstained apical region. One-way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test was used to statistically analyze the results (P < 0.05).

Results:

The ingeniously devised irrigation delivery and intracanal aspiration system showed a significantly higher apical delivery of irrigant as compared to the other methods studied (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

The proposed simple root canal irrigating device can be made with materials readily available. Comparing the same to standard techniques showed better irrigant delivery to the apical region. With further studies planned to evaluate smear layer removal and canal disinfection, we hope that this can serve as an efficient, cost-effective novel device that can be easily incorporated into clinical practice.
Cleaning efficacy of various rotary endodontic file systems in primary dentition
Authors: Lavanya T , Sai Sankar A J , Sridevi E , Pranitha K , Sankar K Siva , Kumar K Kiran
Published: May 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare the cleaning efficacy of three different rotary instrumentation systems in root canal preparation of primary anterior teeth.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty primary anterior teeth were freshly extracted and divided into three groups of ten teeth each. In Group I, root canals were instrumented with ProTaper, Group II with K3, and Group III with Hero 642 rotary file systems. After canal preparation, the teeth were sectioned longitudinally and visualized under standard error of the mean at coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Debris and smear layer removal efficacy was evaluated, and the data obtained were subjected to Kruskal–Wallis ANOVA test and Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:

Statistically significant difference was noted in debris and smear layer scores at apical thirds (P < 0.05) between three groups with the highest efficacy for ProTaper followed by K3 and Hero 642 rotary systems. At coronal and middle thirds, K3 performed better than ProTaper file system.

Conclusion:

All the three groups showed decreased smear layer removal at the apical third. However, ProTaper and K3 rotary files showed significantly better cleaning efficacy at the apical third when compared to Hero 642 rotary files.
Tube feeding-associated patients’ outcomes at Intensive Care Units, Cairo
Authors: Morsy Warda Youssef Mohamed , Seloma Yousria Abdelsalam , Mohammed Ibrahim Mohammed Youssef
Published: May 2024

Background

Tube feeding in critically ill patients is often hampered gastrointestinal and metabolic outcomes/complications; it is significantly contributing to the morbidity and mortality rates.

Aim of the study

The aim of this study was to assess outcomes associated with tube feeding.

Research questions

Q1: What are the gastrointestinal complications associated with tube feeding among critically ill patients at intensive care units in Cairo, Egypt? Q2: What is the nutritional status of critically ill patients on tube feeding at intensive care units in Cairo, Egypt?

Sample

A purposive sample of 64 adult male and female patients who were admitted to intensive care units and using tube feeding. Tools of data collection Three tools were utilized: demographic and medical data tool, tube feeding outcomes tool, nutritional assessment tool.

Results

In about half of the study sample, age ranged between 51 and 70 years and 51.6% of them were males. Moreover, 78% of the studied sample developed gastrointestinal complications. Vomiting was occurred in (33%) diarrhea (34.4%) constipation in (47%) increased high gastric residual volumes in (18%) of the studied sample. Redness and ulceration of tube insertion site have been observed in 67% of the studied sample. Subjective global assessment score shows a significant statistical correlation between before and after tube feeding as P=0.006. Hyperglycemia was observed in 15.6% while hypoglycemia was observed in only 6.3%.

Conclusion

Tube feedings have a significant negative effect on nutritional and gastrointestinal outcomes.

Recommendation

Further studies have to be carried out in order to assess the relationship between implementation of tube feeding protocols and nutritional outcomes.
Effect of fear of COVID-19 pandemic on work satisfaction and turnover intentions of nurses
Authors: Elhanafy Elham Y. , El Hessewi Ghada Samir
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nurses are under such a tremendous amount of pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic that many have become concerned about their jobs and even intend to leave them.

Aim

The aim was to investigate the effect of fear of COVID-19 pandemic on work satisfaction and turnover intentions of nurses.

Patients and methods

A descriptive correlation research design was adopted. The study was conducted at all inpatient units (medical and surgical) and critical care units (N=15) of Damanhour National Medical Institute (nurses=210). Part I included questions related to demographic characteristics. Part II was the fear of COVID-1 9 Scale. Part III was the work satisfaction index (JSI). Part IV included two measures of turnover intention used to assess organizational and professional turnover intentions.

Results

The total score for the fear of COVID-19 scale was 19.01 (SD: 5.98), which was above the average. Fear of COVID-19 scale mean score was higher among nurses who had not attended COVID-19-related training than nurses who had attended the training (t=−2.349, P=0.020).

Conclusion

This study illuminates that the enhanced fear of COVID-19 pandemic among nurses increases their work dissatisfaction, in addition, to an increase in their organizational and professional turnover intentions. It is recommended to formulate COVID-19 training programs to enhance the capacity of nurses to effectively care for and manage coronavirus patients among healthcare organization.
Factors affecting the implementation of national nursing services accreditation standards as perceived by nursing staff
Authors: Seada Abeer Mohamed , El Banan Sahar Hassan Aly , El Banna Reham Talaat Mostafa
Published: May 2024

Background

Hospital accreditation programs, which have been implemented in many developing countries, are used as a cornerstone for ensuring a basic level of quality. Nurses play an important role in achieving accreditation standards.

Aim

To assess the factors affecting the implementation of national nursing services accreditation standards (NNSAS) as perceived by the nursing staff.

Design

A descriptive exploratory design was used to collect data.

Sample

A convenience sample of 411 nursing staff who were available and accepted to participate in this study at the time of data collection was included.

Setting

The study was conducted at El Mahalla El Kobra General Hospital and El Mahalla Cardiac Center.

Tools

A tool was used to collect data on factors affecting the implementation of nursing services accreditation standards questionnaire. It had two parts as follows: personal data questionnaire and factors affecting the implementation of nursing services accreditation standards questionnaire.

Results

The results indicated that more than half of the study participants had high agreement about total factors affecting implementation of NNSAS. Other factors parameter was the highest dimension affecting implementation of NNSAS, whereas financial incentives was the lowest from studied nursing staff point of view.

Conclusion

The first most important factor that affects implementation of NNSAS is the dimension of other factors, followed by medical records and information management. Then regulations, policies, and procedures governing the work were the third most important factor.

Recommendations

Allocation of sufficient financial and human resources for the application of quality and accreditation standards should be done.
Work design, entrepreneurial leadership, and innovative work behavior as perceived by staff nurses
Authors: Elewa Amal H. , El Banan Sahar H.A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Health care organizations that need to be competitive should pay attention to the creation of constructive work design and support effective entrepreneurial leadership to enhance staff nurses’ ability to face challenges in their work environment and develop their innovative behavior and performance.

Aim

The current study research was carried out to assess work design, entrepreneurial leadership, and innovative work behavior as perceived by staff nurses.

Setting

This study was done at New Kasr AL-Aini Teaching Hospital, affiliated to Cairo University.

Research design

This study had a descriptive correlation design.

Sample

At the time of data collection, a convenience sample of 200 staff nurses who volunteered to participate in the study was included.

Tools

Data were collected using three tools as follows: (a) job design questionnaire, (b) entrepreneurial leadership questionnaire, and (c) innovative work behavior questionnaire.

Results

The study results revealed that the total mean percentages for job design, entrepreneurial leadership, and innovative work behaviors were 74.20, 75.25, and 73.87%, respectively. There was no statistically significant correlation between the total perception of staff nurses’ job design and their total perception of entrepreneurial leadership and innovative work behaviors (r=0.08, P=023 and r=0.02, P=0.84, respectively). Only a statistically significant relation (r=0.85 and P=0.00) existed between staff nurses’ overall perceptions of entrepreneurial leadership and innovative work behaviors. Conclusion: data of the present study concluded that there was no statistically significant correlation between total perception of staff nurses’ job design and their total perception of entrepreneur leadership and innovative work behaviors. However, only a statistically significant relationship was found between overall perceptions of entrepreneurial leadership and innovative work behaviors among staff nurses.

Recommendations

Hospital administrators should ensure that the staff job designs are well designed to increase staff innovative behaviors. Support the adoption of entrepreneurial leadership to achieve the organization’s objectives. Educational programs for nurses’ innovative development should be planned by hospital management. Nurse leaders must realize their critical role in designing procedures that allow nurses to think more creatively and generate new ideas.
Dietary behavior of obese pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic at El Manial University Hospital
Authors: Hussein Maha A. , Sayed Yousria A.El , Fawaz Magda A. , Ebrahim Mona M.
Published: May 2024

Background

The poor quality of maternal diet among obese pregnant women was considered one of the most significant predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the dietary behavior among obese pregnant women.

Design

A descriptive research design was adopted to reach the stated aim.

Sample

A purposive sample of 125 obese pregnant women through a period of 6 months was recruited from the antenatal care at El Manial Maternity Hospital.

Tools

Three tools were used: (a) structured interviewing questionnaire tool, (b) anthropometric assessment tool, and (c) nutritional assessment tools.

Results

Only 61.6% of the study sample never ate fast food, 32% either drink beverage regularly or always. Moreover, 46.4% from the study sample always added sugar in large quantities, 40% consume fruits, 35.2% either use fat or oil during cooking, and ate snacks between meals. Also, 83.2% from the study sample had unsatisfactory dietary behavior for certain nutrients.

Conclusion

Carbohydrate, diary product, fruits, vegetables, and grains were the main nutrients used by the study sample. Craving for unhealthy foods such as beverages, sweets, and fats was noted among the study sample. Moreover, the overall intake of food in the form of nutrients was found above the limits of the recommended dietary allowances for most of the nutrients among the study sample during pregnancy.

Recommendation

Counseling for proper dietary intake and dietary behavior for obese pregnant women was strongly recommended.
Effect of structured educational intervention booklet regarding anticoagulation therapy on knowledge among patients undergoing mechanical valve replacement in Egypt
Authors: Menem Marwa El , Khalil Nahla S. , Ismaeel Manal S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Valvular heart diseases are the principal causes of morbidity and mortality among patients with rheumatic heart diseases in Egypt. Management of these patients needs mechanical valve replacement. So, these patients require prolonged anticoagulation to prevent bleeding and thromboembolic emergencies unless international normalized ratio is maintained within the normal therapeutic range. Effectively, patient education can help in improving the patient outcomes.

Aim

The aim was to evaluate the effect of a structured educational intervention booklet regarding anticoagulation therapy on knowledge among patients undergoing mechanical valve replacement at a National Heart Institute in Egypt.

Research design

A pre/postquasiexperimental design was used in the current study.

Research hypothesis

The patients who were exposed to a structured educational intervention booklet regarding anticoagulation therapy among patients undergoing mechanical valve replacement would have greater knowledge than before exposure to an educational booklet. Sample: a purposive sample of 171 adult male and female patients who underwent mechanical valve replacement, received oral anticoagulation therapy, and were provided with an educational intervention booklet was included.

Tools of data collection

Two tools were used: a structured interview questionnaire sheet and a knowledge questionnaire. Baseline knowledge was evaluated preoperatively and immediately after exposure to an educational booklet.

Results

The age of 28.7% of patients ranged between 30 and 39 years, with a mean age of 37.895±10.472 years. Concerning patients’ sex and educational level, 53.2 and 39.3% were female and uneducated, respectively. Regarding comparison of patients’ knowledge before and after exposure to an educational intervention booklet regarding anticoagulation therapy, it revealed that majority of patients showed higher mean knowledge scores. So, the patients recorded higher correct answer responses after exposure to the educational booklet versus before exposure regarding benefit of anticoagulants (81.9 vs. 8.2%), normal rate of international normalized ratio ratio (93.6 vs. 3.5%), the factors that affect the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs (94.2 vs. 4.1%), adverse effects of anticoagulants (52 vs. 2%), complications (59.6 vs. 3%), precautions (95.3 vs. 5.8%), foods that reduce the effect of anticoagulant (46.8 vs. 0%), and foods that increase the effect of anticoagulant (24 vs. 0%).

Conclusion

Significant improvements in patients’ knowledge scores were found after exposure to the structured educational intervention booklet regarding anticoagulation therapy.

Recommendations

Patient education interventions should be provided to improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, replication of the same study on a larger probability sample should be conducted at different geographical locations for data generalizability.