bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth Intention Towards Implementing Digital Currency
Authors: Krishnan Ravishankar , Kandasamy Logasakthi , Perumal Elantheraiyan , Mariyappan M. S. R. , Sankar Ganesh K. , Govindaraj Manoj , Malali Anil B.
Published: August 2023

This study investigates the factors influencing youth intention to adopt digital currency and explores the impact of social media and government initiatives on their attitudes and behaviors. The variables perceived ease of use, dissemination of information, responsibility, liability, translucency, and perceived usefulness are used to study the impact of digital adoption. Employing a judgmental study approach, including questionnaire survey and qualitative inputs, this research covered 337 samples and aims to provide comprehensive insights. The findings of this research hold significant implications for policymakers, financial institutions, and social media platforms. By understanding the role of social media and government initiatives, effective strategies can be developed to encourage digital currency adoption among the youth. Addressing potential barriers and leveraging influencers and trusted sources can enhance youth engagement with digital currencies and stimulate economic growth.
The Emergence of Web 3 and Its Core Building Blocks
Authors: Singh Shailey
Published: August 2023

This chapter delves into the core building blocks of Web3, the transformative phase of the internet characterized by decentralized and user-centric digital ecosystems. It explores the ethos of Web3, emphasizing openness, transparency, trustlessness, and user empowerment. The chapter examines blockchain technology for secure transactions, smart contracts revolutionizing agreements, and cryptocurrencies facilitating peer-to-peer value transfer. It discusses decentralized finance (DeFi) as a transformative building block and explores decentralized applications (DApps) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) for creating user-centric platforms. The importance of interoperability along with governance mechanisms like decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) is highlighted. The chapter concludes by envisioning the interconnectedness between Web3 and the metaverse, where virtual and physical realities merge. Overall, it provides a comprehensive overview of Web3's emergence and its transformative impact on decentralization, transparency, and user empowerment.
The Promise of Blockchain-Based Decentralized Social Networks
Authors: Shilina Sasha
Published: August 2023

This chapter explores the potential of the novel Web 3 phenomenon – decentralized social networks – to address the growing concerns over privacy, censorship, and user control on centralized social media platforms. Offering an alternative to traditional social media, decentralized social platforms utilize distributed ledger technologies like blockchain where data is stored on multiple nodes and controlled by the users, rather than a central authority. Such systems are designed to enable trust and transparency in online interactions, provide the ability to communicate without censorship or interference, and empower users with greater control over their personal data. This chapter discusses the benefits and challenges of blockchain-based social networks, as well as existing initiatives working towards a more decentralized, democratic, and user-centric model of social networking.
Web 3.0
Authors: Mann Ratnakar
Published: August 2023

Web 3.0 has revolutionized the internet with its salient features of decentralization, trustful and permissionless, artificial intelligence and machine learning, connectivity, and ubiquity. Although the idea of Web 3.0 gained much popularity in 2021, the term was coined in 2014 by Gavin Wood. The advent of Web 3.0 has ushered in a new era of blockchain technology, and this chapter is an attempt to unleash the tremendous potential of this technology with a prime focus in the education sector. Although the fields in which this technology has contributed are wide and diverse, the innovative potential of Web 3.0 in the education field is explored in this chapter and its future implications are assessed and analyzed. There has been a profound impact of Web 3.0 in education services and the amalgamation of Web 3.0 technologies has altogether transformed the education sector and its contribution to society is undeniably important. In adherence to this, this chapter unravels the transformations caused by Web 3.0 in the teaching-learning process.
A Transfer Learning Approach for Detecting Plant Leaf Diseases With Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Valarmathi P. , Amma N. G. Bhuvaneswari , Bhasin Vasu
Published: August 2023

Agriculture is an indispensable sector for the continuity of homo sapiens. In the Indian context where agriculture contributes 19.9 percent of GDP and engages almost 54.6 percent of the population, it requires great measures to be taken to avoid plant diseases. Plant diseases are difficult to track manually as that requires a lot of work and proficiency in plant diseases. It is mandatory to keep a check on at varying phases of crop development to recognize the disease at time. Digitalization as well as adopting technology is essential for agriculture and for the welfare of the farmer. This chapter concentrates on detecting plant diseases using convolutional neural network. The concept of transfer learning is used for classification. The proposed framework can identify various types of diseases efficiently.
Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Thanh Tung Bui , Huyen Nguyen Thi Ngoc
Published: August 2023

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder related to persistent hyperglycemia. It is characterized by lack of secretion and activity of insulin, which causes chronic complications including cardiovascular and renal diseases, high blood pressure, and infections. Medicinal plants offer many therapeutic agents to improve the symptoms and prevent the progression of T2D. Treatment with present synthetic drugs leading to several adverse effects stimulates further search into natural products in order to find effective anti-diabetic candidates. This chapter reviews molecular targets of T2D treatment as well as medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds that were searched from Medline, Google Scholar, PubMed database, or other bibliographic reviews of relevant articles. The authors hope that this review will contribute to develop further investigations into potential alternatives against T2D.
Transforming Teachers Through Professional Development Distance Learning Programs
Authors: Tzovla Eirini , Kedraka Katerina
Published: August 2023

The chapter presents the transformational processes found in a group of in-service teachers who attended an online distance learning professional development program that appeared to be stable two years after the program ended. The program was supported by Mezirow's transformative learning theory, which inspired the program's instructors. The mixed method (quantitate and qualitative) was chosen as the method of data collection. The results indicated that the program activated the critical reflection of the participants on their experiences, transformed their initial perceptions about the teaching of biological concepts in Primary School, and the utilization of DEC and OER in educational practice, encouraged their reflection about their professional role, and enhanced their personal and professional development.
CT Image Detection of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Based on the Improved Strategy YOLOv5
Authors: Liu Jing , Xie Haojie , Lu Mingli , Li Ye , Wang Bing , Sun Zhaogang , He Wei , Wen Limin , Hou Dailun
Published: August 2023

The diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis is a complicated process with a long wait. According to the WS 288-2017 standard, PTB can be divided into five types of imaging. To date, no relevant studies on PTB CT images based on the Yolov5 algorithm have been retrieved. To develop an improved strategy YOLOv5, for the classification of PTB lesions based on whole, CT slices were combined with three other modules. CT slices of PTB collected from hospitals were set as training, verification, and external test sets. It is compared with YOLOv5, SSD and RetinaNet neural network methods. The values of precision, recall, MAP, and F1-score of the improved strategy YOLOv5 for the external test were 0.707, 0.716, 0.715, and 0.71. In this study, based on the same dataset, the improved strategy YOLOv5 model has better results than other networks. Our method provides an effective method for the timely detection of PTB.
Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Critical Care Setting: Abdominal POCUS
Authors: Boling Bryan , Solis Abbye
Published: August 2023

Point-of-care ultrasonography is becoming standard practice for diagnosis and management of patients in the critical care setting. When using point-of-care ultrasonography for evaluation of the abdomen, most providers will immediately think of the Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma examination. However, there are a number of important abdominal applications for the nontrauma patient, including evaluation of the function of abdominal organs, differentiation of shock states, and identification of sources of sepsis. This article covers basic approaches to an abdominal point-of-care ultrasonography examination of the biliary tract, liver, kidneys, bladder, and appendix, as well as identification and management of intra-abdominal free fluid.
Ultrasonography-Guided Procedures in the Intensive Care Setting
Authors: Cruz Jeffrey C. , Edelstein Mark
Published: August 2023

Ultrasonography guidance can help make procedures safer and more effective, particularly in the intensive care setting. This article discusses techniques to optimize periprocedural ultrasonography and reviews common intensive care procedures for which ultrasonography can be used: vascular access procedures, paracentesis, thoracentesis, and pericardiocentesis.
Collisions between Drones and Rotorcraft: Modeling of the Crash Response of Battery Packs
Authors: May Michael , Schneider Niklas , Schaufelberger Benjamin , Jung Markus , Pfaff Jonas , Altes Anja , Haase Thomas , Schopferer Sebastian , Imbert Mathieu , Matura Pascal , Blacha Martin
Published: August 2023

Drones operating in an urban environment pose a potential collision threat to rotorcraft. In this paper, the battery pack of the DJI MAVIC 2 ZOOM is analyzed since the battery is considered to be the greatest threat due to its high weight and stiffness. Following a pyramid-type building
block approach, a high-fidelity model simulation was developed for LSDYNA based on a wide range of experiments, ranging from quasi-static material tests to quasi-static component tests up to high-velocity impact experiments. The high-fidelity model allows the prediction of damage in potential
collision scenarios between a high-speed rotorcraft and the battery pack of the drone. For the particular impact configuration analyzed within this paper, the drone battery does not cause catastrophic failure of the windshield of the rotorcraft.
Prevalence of pruritus in the elderly in an outpatient dermatologic clinic: a monocentric pilot study
Authors: Javor Sanja , Priano Luigi , Anonide Antonio , Massone Cesare
Published: August 2023

Pruritus is a common dermatological condition; only few studies have investigated pruritus in old patients. To investigate the prevalence and features of pruritus in old patients which refer to the Dermatology Unit, Galliera Hospital in Genoa. We evaluated the demographic characteristics of all the patients attending for any skin condition the Outpatient Clinic at the Dermatology Unit, selecting those with pruritus and particularly focusing on patients aged more than 65 years.Pruritus was present in 36/262 patients (14%; M:F=20:16; mean age:59.55 years). Patients with pruritus older than 65 years were 20/262 (8%; M:F=14:6; mean age:74.6 years), that represented 14% out of the 140 patients aged ≥65 years. We found no statistically differences among patients aged≥65 years (20/36) and patients aged<65 years (16/36) concerning VAS pruritus. In 89% of patients itch was related to a dermatological condition, mainly psoriasis. Only extracutaneous diseases resulted more frequent in the patients aged>65. In none of these patients an anamnestic association between drug intake and the onset of pruritus was recorded. We confirm that pruritus is a common skin problem, that is equally frequent both sex, in young and old patients, that in almost all cases is related to an underlying skin condition (mainly psoriasis) and that is rarely anamnestic related to a new drug intake.
Anisakis simplex and urticaria. What we know about its real incidence and management in dermatological settings?
Authors: Javor Sanja , Bignardi Donatella , Borro Matteo , Massone Cesare
Published: August 2023

Acute or chronic infections have been described among causes of chronic urticaria (CU). Anisakidosis is a human disease caused by the ingestion of larval nematodes of the family Anisakidae. The infestation is acquired by eating raw seafood or undercooked fish and squid. There are considerable variations in the frequency of underlying causes in the different studies and in different countries, such as differences in diets and the prevalence of infections. Anisakis simplex has been recognized as a trigger of both acute and chronic urticarial manifestations. However, there is still lack of evidence about its management and treatment in dermatology. We, therefore, reviewed some biologic properties of Anisakis simplex in order to understand the relationship between its biology and the mechanism it uses to establish chronic dermatological conditions such as urticaria and cause late complications. In addition, we herein report some concerns about the effectiveness of systemic treatment in preventing complications and management in the dermatological settings.
A ruptured blister aneurysm of the A1 segment of the anterior cerebral artery with communicating hydrocephalus: a case report with histo-pathological and genetic predisposition
Authors: Charmode Sundip , Kaliya Mehul , Patel Tarang , Mehra Simmi
Published: August 2023

Background: Cerebral arteries experience aneurysms more commonly than systemic arteries. This case report discusses a blister aneurysm that affected the anterior cerebral artery's A1 segment. The histological and genetic background is related to the aneurysm's unique presentation. Case description: The blister aneurysm ruptured, leading to interventricular and basal subarachnoid hemorrhage. A right sided fronto-temporo-parietal decompressive craniotomy was performed to explore it, along which clipping operation was performed. A communicative hydrocephalus develops after the craniectomy for which a right parietal VP shunt was conducted that underwent malfunction. The patient succumbed due to septic shock after 4 months of VP shunt revision surgery. Discussion: Different forms of cerebral aneurysms were analyzed, with regards to their histo-pathological characteristics and underlying anatomical basis of their formation. Finally, the genetic propensity of all the aneurysm was explained. There was an interventricular and basal subarachnoid hemorrhage because of the blister aneurysm's rupture. To explore it, a fronto-temporo-parietal decompressive craniotomy on the right side was done, along with a clipping operation. After the craniectomy, a right parietal VP shunt was performed, however it malfunctioned, leading to a communicative hydrocephalus. After undergoing VP shunt revision surgery for 4 months, the patient passed away from septic shock. Conclusions: The common types of cerebral aneurysms (saccular, fusiform, mycotic and blister) and the anatomical basis of their occurrence are reviewed in-depth in the histopathological and genetic literature.
Presentations of bladder exstrophy in a resource-limited setting and the role of Mainz II continent diversion for late referrals or failed primary closures: a multicentric report
Authors: Calisti Alessandro , Belay Kibreab , Mombo Andrea , Nugud Faisal Abdelgalil , Salman Diaaeldinn Yaseen , Lelli Chiesa Pierluigi
Published: August 2023

Primary closure techniques that have been updated and longterm follow-up for CBE (classic bladder exstrophy) may be out of reach for many patients living in resource-limited settings. Late referrals to medical care and primary closures that lack the necessary skills and facilities for comprehensive treatment are still common. Alternative and long-term surgical solutions may improve the lives of these unfortunate patients. During surgical outreach missions, patients with CBE, either non-operated or with a previous unsuccessful bladder closure, who were referred from vast under-resourced rural areas to three Eastern African hospitals, were studied. The following information is provided: mode of presentation, clinical history, diagnostic workout, management, and outcome. There were 25 cases (M/F ratio 17/8) ranging in age from two days to twenty years. Five of the seventeen patients who were not treated (35%) were under 120 days old and eligible for primary closure in a qualified tertiary center when one was available in the country. There were twelve late referred cases (ranging from 120 days to 20 years). Between the ages of ten months and twelve years, eight children arrived following a failed primary closure. In all of them, the bladder plate was too altered to allow closure. Following a preoperative diagnostic workout, a Mainz II continent internal diversion was proposed to fourteen patients with acceptable bowel control and postponed in the other three. Three cases were lost before treatment because parents refused the procedure. Twelve cases ranging in age from three to twenty years (mean seven years) were operated on. Eight people were followed for a total of 53.87 months (range: 36-120). Except for three people who complained of occasional night soiling, day and night continence were good. The average voiding frequency during the day was four and 1.3 at night. There was no evidence of a metabolic imbalance, urinary infection, or significant upper urinary tract dilatation. Two fatalities could not be linked to urinary diversion. Four patients were not followed up on. Due to the limited number of specialist surgical facilities, CBE late referral or failed closure is to be expected in a resource-limited context. In lieu of the primary closure, a continent internal diversion will be proposed and encouraged even at the level of a non-specialist hospital to improve the quality of life of these unfortunate patients. It is recommended that patients be warned about the procedure’s potential long-term risks, which will necessitate a limited but regular follow-up.
MULTIPARAMETRIC FLOW CYTOMETRY REFINES RISK STRATIFICATION IN NEWLY DIAGNOSED MULTIPLE MYELOMA PATIENTS
Authors: Fazio Francesca , Lapietra Gianfranco , Limongi Maria Zaira , Intoppa Stefania , Milani Maria Laura , Piciocchi Alfonso , Martelli Maurizio , Guarini Anna , Foà Robin , De Propris Maria Stefania , Petrucci Maria Teresa
Published: August 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a heterogeneous malignancy characterized by the proliferation of abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) plays a role in the work-up of the disease in view of the aberrant expression of surface antigens. Our study aimed at describing the antigenic profile detected by MFC in a series of newly diagnosed MM patients to correlate the level of expression with other features of the disease. Between April 2018 and June 2022, 84 consecutive MM patients were studied at presentation. CD56 and CD117 were commonly detected, while CD45, CD28, CD20, CD19, CD13 and CD33 were less recurrent. CD20 expression was associated with the type of secretory MM (p=0.041) and with a higher disease burden (p=0.038). CD28 positivity correlated with a lower platelet count at baseline (p=0.005) and with a lower rate of complete response (p=0.038). Furthermore, CD28 positivity and a lower CD138 expression tended to associate with the high-risk chromosomal translocations t(14;16) and t(4;14). The results of this study indicate that in the diagnostic work-up of MM, MFC may help to identify different patient subsets and improve risk stratification. These observations need to be validated in larger series of patients with a longer follow-up.
Measurement of erythrocyte lifespan using a CO breath test in patients with thalassemia and the impact of treatment
Authors: Yin Xiaolin , Luo Jingting
Published: August 2023

Background: Thalassemia comprises a diverse group of genetic disorders that affects the synthesis of globin chains, with a global distribution. The use of erythrocyte lifespan (ELS) to assess differences among patients with different types of thalassemia and the efficacy of splenectomy has not been implemented.
JUSTIFICATION OF UNIVERSAL IRON SUPPLEMENTATION FOR INFANTS 6-12 MONTHS IN REGIONS WITH A HIGH PREVALENCE OF THALASSEMIA
Authors: Sinlapamongkolkul Phakatip , Surapolchai Pacharapan , Viprakasit Vip
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Many clinicians hesitate adopting a universal infant iron supplementation program due to the risk of increased iron absorption for those with thalassemia. We aimed to determine thalassemia prevalence in 6- to 12-month old infants, along with the iron status of those with and without thalassemia.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional descriptive study of infants attending the Well Baby Clinic at Thammasat University Hospital for routine checkups. Complete blood count, hemoglobin electrophoresis, iron parameters, and molecular genetics for common a- and b-thalassemia were evaluated.

Results: Overall, 97 of 206 (47%) participants had thalassemia minor, the majority having Hb E traits. None had thalassemia intermedia or major. Familial history of anemia or thalassemia presented an increased risk of detecting thalassemia minor in offspring (OR 5.18; 95% CI 2.60-10.33, p=0.001). There were no statistical differences in transferrin saturation, serum ferritin and hepcidin between iron-replete infants with thalassemia minor and those without.  However, one-third of infants with thalassemia minor (31/97) also had iron deficiency anemia (IDA), with a similar risk of having iron deficiency to infants without thalassemia. There was no hepcidin suppression in our infants with thalassemia minor as compared to controls.

Conclusions: Both thalassemia and IDA are endemic to Southeast Asia. Infants with thalassemia minor, particularly with Hb E and a-thalassemia traits, are at risk of IDA. Our short-term universal iron supplementation program for 6 to 12-month old infants does not appear to increase the risk of those with thalassemia minor developing iron overload in the future.
The Role of Lipoprotein (a) and Dyslipidemia in Diabetic Retinopathy in a Sample of Syrian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Omran Lama MS , Alourfi Zaynab , Barakat Youssef A
Published: August 2023

Objective: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of vision loss in the working-age group. Detecting DR-related risk factors is the best early prevention strategy. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between lipoprotein (a) [)Lp(a)] and DR occurrence. Additionally, the study aimed to determine the relationship between dyslipidemia and DR incidence in a sample of Syrian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: One hundred and twenty-two participants were included in this case–control study. Thirty-one participants were in the control group, 61 were in the T2DM with DR (DM and DR) case group, and 30 were in the T2DM without DR group. Fundus examination was performed to assess the existence and degree of retinopathy. Lp(a), lipid profile component, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were measured. Results: Lp(a), total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TAG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and nonhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) were significantly higher in the DM and DR case group compared to the other groups. HDL-C was the lowest in the DM and DR group (P < 0.001). Lp(a) exhibited significant positive correlations with body mass index, blood pressure, TAG, TC, LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and fasting plasma glucose; however, it had a negative correlation with HDL-C. The odds ratio of non-HDL/HDL was highest, followed by non-HDL after adjusting for Lp(a). The best cut-off point of Lp(a) for predicting DR assessed by receiver operating characteristic curve was 36.1 mg/dL (area under curve 0.772). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Lp(a) and lipid profile components were risk factors for DR incidence in T2DM patients. Non-HDL-C/HDL-C ratio was the best lipid predictor.
Negative Pressure Ventilation for COVID-19 Respiratory Failure: A Phoenix from the Ashes?
Authors: Howard David , Malcolm George Coulthard , Colin Speight , Michael Grocott
Published: August 2023

Aim: To critically review the clinical question: does negative pressure ventilation (NPV) have a role in the management of COVID-19-associated respiratory failure? Background: NPV was commonly used in the management of respiratory failure until the 1950s when positive pressure devices began to be utilized. Physiological responses to NPV differ from responses to positive pressure ventilation, PPV, in a number of ways that may have clinical advantages in the management of respiratory failure in general, and specifically in the care of COVID-19-associated respiratory failure. Design: Narrative review based on systematic literature research. Data sources: A search on OVID MEDLINE and EMBASE for NPV provided key publications, which were combined with recent relevant literature related to the present COVID-19 pandemic. Results: A total of 83 papers are included in the review and analysis. NPV has been used for >100 years across a range of clinical conditions including polio, adult respiratory distress syndrome, acute respiratory failure in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, a range of neuromuscular disorders, chest wall disease, and post-cardiothoracic and spinal surgery. The potential benefits of NPV, in comparison the treatment of COVID-19 patients, may include improved ventilation, decreased lung damage, improved hemodynamics, ease of proning, and prevention of escalation to intubation. Conclusions: Historic and recent published evidence from animals and man support the use of NPV in acute respiratory failure in general, and strongly suggests that it may be particularly useful in COVID-19-associated respiratory failure. Clinical evaluation of a new lightweight, cost-effective NPV device is justified as it may result in a safe, effective, and economical solution to COVID-19-associated respiratory failure. It could be useful worldwide, but particularly in low and middle-income countries.
Comparison of sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation index between infertile men with infection and vaccines of COVID-19
Authors: Lestari Silvia W , Restiansyah Gito , Yunihastuti Evy , Pratama Gita
Published: August 2023

Several preventive measures, including vaccination, have been implemented owing to the severe global effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but there is still limited evidence in the effect of this disease and vaccination against it on male fertility. Therefore, this study is to compare sperm parameters of infertile patients with or without COVID-19 infection and the effect of COVID-19 vaccine types on them. Semen samples of infertile patients were collected consecutively at Universitas Indonesia - Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (Jakarta, Indonesia). COVID-19 was diagnosed by rapid antigen or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Vaccination was performed with three types of vaccine, namely inactivated viral vaccine, messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine, and viral vector vaccine. Spermatozoa were then analyzed on the World Health Organization recommendations, and DNA fragmentation was assayed with the sperm chromatin dispersion kit. The results showed that the COVID-19 group experienced a significant decrease in sperm concentration and progressive motility (both P < 0.05), but there was no significant change in morphology or sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI; both P > 0.05). The viral vector vaccine caused a decrease in morphology as well as an increase in DFI compared with the control (both P < 0.05), meanwhile results for those who were vaccinated with the inactivated and mRNA types were not significant compared with the control (both P > 0.05). We conclude that COVID-19 has negative effects on sperm parametes and sperm DNA fragmentation, and we found that the viral vector vaccines affect sperm parameter values and DNA fragmentation negatively. Further studies with a larger population and longer follow-up are needed to confirm the results.
Venolymphatic malformation – parotid gland
Authors: Aishwarya M. S. , Gosavi Manasi , Ratnakar Ashwini V. , Togale Manoj
Published: August 2023

Vascular malformations (VMs) are a rare clinical entity and even rarer are those originating from the salivary glands. Those arising from the parotid gland are the most reported with the most common subtype being venous or arteriovenous malformation. Here, we report a case of a neck mass which was identified as a venolymphatic VM in the parotid gland. A 14-year-old patient presented with a progressive right-sided facial mass without constitutional symptoms. Ultrasonography of the mass showed a well-defined lobulated parotid mass with few cystic areas and minimal vascularity, thus deducing a differential of either a branchial cyst or a pleomorphic adenoma. Excision of the mass was performed and sent for histopathological diagnosis. The grossly hemorrhagic and congested specimen showed many vascular channels lined by flat endothelium on microscopy. These dilated channels of varying sizes had many red blood cells and proteinaceous fluid. The lesion was also seen infiltrating the normal surrounding structures of the salivary gland tissue. With the rare incidence of VMs occurring anywhere in the body, diagnosing a venolymphatic malformation occurring in the parotid gland was an out of common experience. Better imaging of a mass in the salivary gland using not only ultrasonography but also color Doppler and magnetic resonance imaging can help rule out the rare entities that can sometimes be overlooked and help plan better treatment for the patient.
Immediate contact hypersensitivity to zinc oxide–eugenol restorative material in a pediatric patient: An unusual case report
Authors: Shrivastava Priyanshu Kumar , Juneja Akanksha , Siddiqui Maryam , Sultan Amina
Published: August 2023

The incidence of hypersensitivity reactions in the pediatric age group has been on the rise due to the changing patterns of lifestyle, exposure to allergens at a much earlier age, environmental changes, and genetic susceptibility. Zinc oxide–eugenol (ZOE) has been used predominantly as an endodontic sealer and as a temporary restorative agent for primary dentition since time immemorial. There have been very rare incidences of ZOE hypersensitivity in patients after obturation. Following is a case of immediate contact hypersensitivity reaction seen in a pediatric patient after obturation with ZOE. This case report aims to establish the possibility of ZOE as a potential trigger for contact allergic response in patients and thus cautions dental practitioners to manage the condition efficiently. It also highlights the need to look for alternative dental materials that can be used for obturation in patients allergic to ZOE.
Bifid median nerve causing carpal tunnel syndrome in association with persistent and thrombosed median artery in a young adult: A rare case report
Authors: Mahapatra Swagat , Mishra Madhusudan , Patel Jaydeep , Mishra Prakhar , Singh Devta
Published: August 2023

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a commonly encountered entrapment neuropathy of the median nerve under the flexor retinaculum. Course of median nerve is associated with several anatomical abnormalities. Various anomalies of the median nerve are frequently associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. Various radiological and electrophysiological modalities assist clinical examination in reaching to accurate diagnosis. We present a case of a young male with carpal tunnel syndrome with a bifid median nerve with persistent thrombosed median artery.
A prospective study to evaluate role of spinal cord decompression in thoracolumbar traumatic spinal injury: A pilot study
Authors: Kumar Sanjiv , Kumar Dharmendra , Kumar Deepak , Agarwal Rishabh , Saroj Atul Kumar , Verma Ashutosh , Abbas Mohammad Baqar
Published: August 2023

Background:

For unstable spinal injuries such flexion fractures, unstable fractures, and fracture dislocation, surgical therapy is often indicated. Early surgery may include stabilization of fracture with pedicle screws and connecting rods, reduction of fracture- dislocations and decompression of spinal cord by doing laminectomy at appropriate site. The purpose of this study was to understand better the role of surgical decompression ie laminectomy in thoraco lumber traumatic paraplegia.

Materials and Methods:

A randomized study was conducted after approval by institutional ethics committee of the hospital. We included 40 patients with history of traumatic spinal cord injury attended emergency department of department of orthopaedic surgery of our institution. All patients were then divided in to two groups group A and group B. A standard surgical procedure of posterior pedicle screw fixation with connecting rod were done in all patients in both groups while group B patients also received surgical decompression by doing laminectomy.

Results:

26 patients were included in group A and 14 patients in group B. At Post Op, ASIA A grade level was same while B grade was removed. No At 3 months, the slight shifting to improved grades was seen. No significant difference was found in proportion of various grades of ASIA between the groups (p=0.186). The same results were found at 6 month and 1 year as observed in 3 months.

Conclusion:

Early surgical decompression after a severe spinal cord injury increased neurological recovery. Complete spinal cord injury, on the other hand, was linked to a worse neurological prognosis.
Joshi’s external stabilization system: A prospective study on delayed presenting CTEV cases
Authors: Khan Azad , Adnan Mohd
Published: August 2023

Idiopathic clubfoot and its management have piqued the interest of the orthopedic community since time immemorial, and many techniques for successful management have been advocated to this day. The Jess fixator is one such management technique discussed in this study. The current study evidenced a clear role for controlled differential distraction employing the JESS fixator in the management of neglected and relapsing CTEV.
Surgical treatment of Hagelund deformity by lateral approach: Case report
Authors: Kumar Anand , Pasricha Anmol , Agarwal Sadhak Raghaw , Chauhan Anunay Pratap Singh , Yadav Rohit , Pongen Lanuakum , Kumar Kuldeep
Published: August 2023

Haglund deformity is a common presentation in patients with chronic posterior heel pain with a long duration of symptoms. In this case report, we have managed this deformity by mini-open approach and, thereby, compared it to other approaches. In this case, we have taken a patient who had chronic posterior heel pain for 1 year and was managed by conservative methods but was not satisfied; therefore, after thorough evaluation including radiographs and blood investigations, the decision of surgical intervention was taken to remove the posterosuperior bump on the calcaneum in by a mini-open lateral approach. He had a current American orthopedic foot and ankle score (AOFAS) score of 65 before the surgery. The AOFAS score improved from 65 points presurgery to 88 points at 1-week follow-up postsurgery and increased to 94 points at 2-week follow-up. The lateral approach to Haglund syndrome is better than other approaches whenever there is sparing of the Achilles tendon in terms of degeneration or split. As this approach is done by mini-open; there is a significant improvement in AOFAS points in a short duration; the method is cost-effective; and the patient is able to walk from the next day. Further, the Achilles tendon does not require splitting or postoperative immobilization.
Isolated intramuscular cysticercosis masquerading as tumor: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Sharma Sanjay , Baghel Anurag , Singh Siddharth , Verma Mohit
Published: August 2023

Cysticercosis is an emerging parasitic disease affecting worldwide population. There is large volume of data present in the literature for neurocysticercosis. Tapeworm infections are common in developing countries where there is poor access to sanitation facilities and close interaction between humans and animals and where pigs are a major source of food. The isolated intramuscular involvement of cysticercosis is uncommon. Due to vague clinical presentation and unfamiliarity of clinicians with this entity, it is difficult to diagnose. The initial presentation mimics a soft tissue mass, but imaging arouses suspicion. Here, we report a case of Intramuscular Cysticercosis diagnosed by high resolution ultrasonography in a 25 year old male patient who presented with pain and swelling over the right forearm, without any associated neurological or ocular involvement. The patient responded well to the course of steroids and Albendazole with complete resolution of pain and swelling.
Rare case of isolated distal radius tubercular osteomyelitis
Authors: Siddiqui Yasir Salam , Baqar Abbas Mohammad , Anwer Adnan , Abbas Mazhar , Khurana Shivank , Chowdhry Madhav
Published: August 2023

Osteoarticular tuberculosis is the third most frequent location of tuberculosis after the lung and lymph nodes, accounting for approximately 10%–20% of all cases of extrapulmonary disease. Tuberculosis of the hand and wrist is the rarest osteoarticular location after the shoulder. Diagnosing the tuberculosis wrist in its early stage poses a major challenge to the clinicians because of its atypical and vague presentations and a close resemblance to many relatively benign pathologies. This case report includes a 13-month-old child who presented with a progressive swelling of the wrist for one and a half months. Radiological and microbiological investigations were done and diagnosis of tubercular osteomyelitis of the distal radius was established. Management with anti-tubercular drugs was done and clinical and radiological follow-up was done until remission of the disease. Tuberculosis of the wrist is a rare manifestation and adequate treatment with anti-tubercular drugs could lead to clinical as well as radiological healing.
Management of ulnar styloid fracture with tension band wiring
Authors: Khan Mohammad Jesan , Asif Naiyer , Ashfaque Mohd Uzair , Sankhwar Dilip Kumar
Published: August 2023

Earlier approach for ulnar styloid and tip fractures was nonsurgical management; however, displaced fractures of the ulnar styloid should be treated with internal fixation. In this case report, a case of post road traffic accident fracture of ulnar styloid with distal radioulnar joint disruption was operated with open reduction internal fixation with tension band wiring. Patient gained dorsiflexion of 90º at wrist, and 90º palmar flexion at wrist at 1 year follow-up with union of the bone. Follow-up was done using Mayo (wrist performance score) which was 65% at 6 weeks (satisfactory), and 95% (excellent) at 1 year. We concluded tension band wiring as a superior modality for management of ulnar styloid fractures.
Microbial Profile, Peritoneal Fluid White Blood Cell Count, and Outcome of Peritoneal Dialysis-Related Peritonitis at Indonesian Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Solin Ro Shinta Christina , Kumalawati July , Yusra Yusra , Indrasari Nuri Dyah
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Peritonitis caused by peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains a common complication of continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD). The purpose of this study is to determine the microbial profile in CAPD-related peritonitis, the optimal cutoff of white blood cell (WBC) count, and the percentage of polymorphonuclear (PMN) in CAPD fluid in the prediction of CAPD-related peritonitis, together with the outcome of CAPD-related peritonitis at an Indonesian tertiary hospital. This is a retrospective cohort study of CAPD-related peritonitis patients at Indonesian tertiary hospitals from November 2020 to October 2022.

Methods:

Patients with suspected CAPD-related peritonitis who were tested for CAPD fluid culture and WBC count in CAPD fluid were eligible for this study. Patient’s diagnosis and outcome obtained from medical records. Differences in clinical outcomes by category of microorganisms were analyzed with Fisher exact test. The Mann–Whitney test and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to determine optimal WBC and PMN cutoff.

Results:

This study included 58 patients and 102 episodes of CAPD-related peritonitis. CAPD-related peritonitis was caused by 29.4% Gram-negative bacteria, 21.5% Gram-positive bacteria, 7.8% fungi, and 6.9% polymicrobial bacteria. CAPD fluid WBC count >79 cells/μL and PMN percentage >50% had a sensitivity of 76.4% and a specificity of 92.9% in predicting CAPD-related peritonitis. There was a significant difference in outcome between Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial peritonitis.

Conclusions:

It is critical to understand the microbial profile in CAPD-related peritonitis. Lower WBC count cutoff points in CAPD fluids may improve sensitivity in predicting CAPD-related peritonitis.
Serological Evidence of Zika virus Circulation with Dengue and Chikungunya Infections in Sri Lanka from 2017
Authors: Abeygoonawardena Harshi , Wijesinghe Namal , Navaratne Varuna , Balasuriya Aindralal , Nguyen Thi Thanh Ngan , Moi Meng Ling , De Silva Aruna Dharshan
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Arbovirus diseases remain a public health threat in Sri Lanka. Dengue is endemic and two outbreaks of chikungunya infections have been reported. There is limited data on Zika virus (ZIKV) infections in Sri Lanka, and this could be due to a lack of comprehensive ZIKV surveillance. Our aim was to determine the presence of antibodies to dengue, chikungunya, and Zika infections in adults from a suburban population in Sri Lanka.

Methods:

A total of 149 healthy adult volunteers over 18 years of age (mean age: 43±14 years, males – 43%), with no prior diagnosed arboviral infections and no history of overseas travel, participated in the study. ELISA and neutralization assays were carried out to detect past dengue, chikungunya, or Zika infections.

Results:

A total of 94.6% (141/149) of the participants demonstrated dengue IgG antibodies, 37.5% (56/149) were positive for chikungunya IgG, and 5.3% (8/149) were positive for anti-ZIKV IgG antibodies. Neutralization assays confirmed ZIKV-specific antibodies in 6.7% (10/149), when 40/149 of the participating population were tested.

Conclusion:

This clearly demonstrated past ZIKV infections in this population. In addition, this study indicates that >90% of individuals had asymptomatic dengue but no serious symptoms. These results provide a cross-sectional view on the DENV, ZIKV, and CHIKV epidemic status and demonstrate a need for the implementation of enhanced surveillance and more effective measures against the spread of these arbovirus diseases.
Doxycycline for Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Negative Bacterial Infection Treatment: A Scoping Review
Authors: de Macedo Viviane , Meneghete Bruno Pandolfo , Koaski José Cassiano , Albuquerque Ariádne Sousa , Fachi Mariana Millan
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Multidrug-resistant bacterial infections limit available therapeutic options. Doxycycline is an old antibiotic from the tetracycline class that exhibits a wide antibacterial action, including Gram-negative bacteria (GNB), and could be an alternative for the treatment of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Enterobacteriaceae. The study aimed to systematically identify, evaluate, and summarize the results of studies related to outcomes of treatments for MDR-GNB infections in patients treated with doxycycline.

Methods:

This review was conducted in four databases during weeks 41–52 of 2022: PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science, from the earliest year available on each database to December 2022. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were followed in conducting this study, and PICO was used for the research question of this review.

Results:

This scoping review found 8 retrospective studies that included 59 patients. Of these, 69% were treated for ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), 27% for urinary tract infections, 2% for bloodstream infections, and 2% for wound infections, both of which were associated with VAP. The usual dosage of doxycycline was 100 mg intravenously or orally. Clinical and microbiologic improvements were achieved in 81.3% and 87% of all patients, respectively. The mortality rate was 17.3% and was exclusively due to VAP.

Conclusions:

Doxycycline showed promising results in this review; however, randomized clinical trials or prospective cohorts are recommended to demonstrate the efficacy of doxycycline in the treatment of MDR infections with GNB.
Exploring feeding practices in typically developing young children in three districts of Maharashtra: A preliminary survey
Authors: Chheda Yasha Jitendra , Swapna Narayanan
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

The current study was designed to investigate and compare the feeding practices across three districts of Maharashtra and across maternal literacy levels.

Materials and Methods:

This study employed a cross-sectional survey. A survey tool was developed to assess the feeding practices, which included items related to the hierarchy of food types introduced to infants, their consistency, the age of introduction of various foods, utensils used, and position used to feed the infants. The survey tool was validated by experienced speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Ninety-five mothers of children in the age range of 1–3 years (30 mothers from each of the two districts—Nagpur, Sangli, and 35 participants from Mumbai) were included as participants. The participants of all the districts were also grouped based on their literacy levels. The survey tool was administered via online mode.

Results:

This study revealed that there were many differences in feeding practices across districts and literacy levels. Only the utensil used to provide complementary feeds, consistency of the food introduced after complementary feeds, and the position used to feed the foods of next consistency were similar across districts. Across literacy levels, only the consistency of complementary feeds, consistency of the food introduced after complementary feeds, position to feed the next consistency, utensil and position used to feed water were similar. All the other feeding practices varied across districts and literacy levels.

Conclusion:

It can be concluded that the geographical location of the districts across Maharashtra and maternal literacy levels influenced feeding practices. The findings of this study imply that the practicing SLPs should consider the variations in feeding practices that exist across districts during the assessment and intervention of young children with feeding issues.