bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Massive spontaneous haematoma of the liver following laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Gunathunga H. , Vishwajith P. , Buddhika U. A. , Tillalakaratne S. , Siriwardana R. C.
Published: March 2023

No abstract available
Prostatitis: current perspective on diagnosis and management
Authors: Balagobi B. , Sarma S.T. , Gobishangar S. , Brammah T. R. , Jenil A. A. , Gobinath S. , Sankeetha U. , Anushika S.
Published: March 2023

Prostatitis is a common and important urological problem which affects men of all ages. It is a challenging condition to be diagnosed and treated. It is classified under four categories according to the National Institute of Health Classification (Category 1 - Acute bacterial prostatitis, Category 2- Chronic bacterial prostatitis, Category 3-Chronic prostatitis / chronic pelvic pain syndrome, Category 4 – Asymptomatic inflammatory prostatitis). The most common causative organism for both acute and chronic prostatitis is Escherichia coli. Investigation and treatment of prostatitis depend on the clinical presentation of the respective clinical category. Antimicrobials are the mainstay of treatment of acute bacterial prostatitis according to the culture and sensitivity pattern. Chronic bacterial prostatitis needs a long duration of treatment depending on clinical conditions and treatment response. Surgery is rarely indicated in bacterial prostatitis except for a prostatic abscess. Granulomatous prostatitis is an uncommon inflammatory condition with different management options for morphologically different entities. This review looks at each category's presentation, aetiology, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity and in vitro Bioaccessibility in “Gasnivithi” (Talinum triangulare) and “Keren koku” (Acrostichum aureum) Available in Sri Lanka
Authors: Peduruhewa P. S. , Jayathunge K. G. L. R. , Liyanage R.
Published: March 2023

Underutilized wild edible species or neglected crop species are still used at low levels within the local communities, but show a high potential to contribute to the food supply with more health benefits. This study was conducted to assess the nutritional properties of two underutilized wild edible species, namely, Acrostichum aureum and Talinum triangulare available in Sri Lanka. Plant extracts were analyzed for their ascorbic acid content, total phenolic content, antioxidant activities, and mineral contents (Ca, Cu, Zn, and Fe). Bioaccessibility of minerals was also tested through an in vitro digestion model. Ca is the most abundant micronutrient (45.61–102.91 mg/100 g) in both tested species, while the in vitro bioaccessibility assay shows a higher fraction of Ca (47.46%) in A. aureum and Cu (64.68%) in T. triangulare. The highest concentrations of ascorbic acid and total phenolic content were found in T. triangulare (AAC: 165 mg/100 g; TPC: GAE,34.8 mg/100 g). Studied species were found to have significant antioxidant activities as evaluated by two different methods, such as DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity. In relation to the tested data, T. triangulare has shown the greatest antioxidant activity in both methods. Hence, consumption of identified underutilized plant species may serve as good sources of antioxidants and minerals in their natural form.
Tuberculosis and COVID-19 Related Stigma: Portuguese Patients Experiences
Authors: Alfaiate Ana , Rodrigues Rita , Aguiar Ana , Duarte Raquel
Published: March 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB)-related stigma has been well-documented. Since the emergence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), different organizations have been alerted to the fact that stigma could arise again. Due to stigma’s negative effects, this qualitative study aimed to explore the stigma felt by patients by evaluating the following: COVID-19 stigma and its temporal progression through the pandemic; stigma perceived by different patients with TB before and during COVID-19 pandemic; and difference perceived by individuals who contracted both diseases.Methods: A semi-structured interview was developed according to the available literature on the theme. It was performed individually in 2022 upon receiving signed informed consent. Participants were recruited with a purposive sampling approach by searching medical records. Those who currently or previously had pulmonary TB and/ or COVID-19 were included. Data were subjected to thematic analysis.Results: Nine patients were interviewed, including six (66.7%) females. The median age of patients was 51±14.7 years. Four participants (44.4%) had completed high school and four (44.4%) were never smokers. Three had both TB and COVID-19. Four only had TB and two only had COVID-19. Interviews identified eight main themes: knowledge and beliefs, with several misconceptions identified; attitudes towards the disease, varying from social support to exclusion; knowledge and education, assumed as of extreme importance; internalized stigma, with self-rejection; experienced stigma, with discrimination episodes; anticipated stigma, modifying actions for avoiding stigma; perceived stigma, with judgment by others prevailed; and temporal evolution of stigma.Conclusion: Individuals expressed strong stigma for both diseases. De-stigmatization of respiratory infectious diseases is crucial for limiting stigma’s negative impact.
High Bacillary Burden and the ESX-1 Type VII Secretion System Promote MHC Class I Presentation by Mycobacterium tuberculosis–Infected Macrophages to CD8 T Cells
Authors: Mott Daniel , Yang Jason , Baer Christina , Papavinasasundaram Kadamba , Sassetti Christopher M , Behar Samuel M
Published: March 2023

We used a mouse model to study how Mycobacterium tuberculosis subverts host defenses to persist in macrophages despite immune pressure. CD4 T cells can recognize macrophages infected with a single bacillus in vitro. Under identical conditions, CD8 T cells inefficiently recognize infected macrophages and fail to restrict M. tuberculosis growth, although they can inhibit M. tuberculosis growth during high-burden intracellular infection. We show that high intracellular M. tuberculosis numbers cause macrophage death, leading other macrophages to scavenge cellular debris and cross-present the TB10.4 Ag to CD8 T cells. Presentation by infected macrophages requires M. tuberculosis to have a functional ESX-1 type VII secretion system. These data indicate that phagosomal membrane damage and cell death promote MHC class I presentation of the immunodominant Ag TB10.4 by macrophages. Although this mode of Ag presentation stimulates cytokine production that we presume would be host beneficial, killing of uninfected cells could worsen immunopathology. We suggest that shifting the focus of CD8 T cell recognition to uninfected macrophages would limit the interaction of CD8 T cells with infected macrophages and impair CD8 T cell–mediated resolution of tuberculosis.
Radionuclide levels and 226Ra concentration ratios between water, vegetation, and tissues of ruffed grouse (Bonasa umbellus) from a watershed with U tailings near Elliot Lake, Canada
Authors: Clulow F V , Lim T P , Dave N K
Published: March 2023

Radionuclide levels measured in bone, muscle, kidney, and liver tissues, gut contents, and diet items of 47 grouse from the Serpent River drainage basin, containing U tailings at Elliot Lake, and from control areas in Ontario, showed variation by site and tissue.
The mean level of 226Ra in bones of grouse sampled from Elliot Lake (28.5 mBq.g -1) was higher than that in bones of birds from a distant control site near Sudbury, Ontario (8.0 mBq.g -1), but similar to the value in a local control population (28.1 mBq.g -1). Birds from Mid- and Low-Serpent River
basin populations (with 17.1 and 17.7 mBq.g-1 respectively) did not differ from local or distant control populations; muscle, liver, and kidney had lower 226Ra concentrations which did not differ significantly among populations. Levels of 226Ra in the crop contents and chyle did not differ
significantly by site and were similar to those of food items consumed by the birds. Chyme values were higher in birds sampled in Elliot Lake and at the local control site than in those taken at the distant control site; birds sampled downstream from Elliot Lake did not differ from distant controls
in this regard. Levels of 232Th, 236Th were below detection limits (0.1 gg.g-1 and 5.0 mBq.g-1 respectively) in bone, muscle, and liver tissue in two grouse with elevated levels of 226Ra. Other radionuclides were measurable in some tissues: 238U in bone at 0.4 gg.g-1 , in muscle to 0.2 gg.g -1 , in
liver to 1.0 gg.g -1 ; 228Th was found only in muscle (8.0 mBq.g -1 ); 216Po was found in bone, muscle, and liver (maxima: 24.0, 7.0, 16.0 mBq.g-1 ) with the exception of one muscle sample; 216Pb was detected in only one liver sample (50.0 mBq.g -1 ). Environmental levels fell within ranges
previously reported at the sites, or at similar locations elsewhere. Leaves of trembling and largetooth aspen growing in the basin had mean 226Ra levels of 41.8 and 52.7 mElq.g-1 (dry 215.4 mBq.g -1 (ai weight) respectively, fungal material caried up to r-dried), with some variation by site. River
and lake waters sampled near the U tailings had 118.1 mBq.L -1- of dissolved 226Ra and at the distant control site the value was 12.1 mBq.L -1. The concentration ratios (CR) between bone of grouse collected at the Elliot Lake sites and trembling and largetooth aspen leaves were 1.38 and 1.09 (fresh
weight basis); from other diet items and other tissues the values were less than unity. Water to tissue bone ratios, based on dissolved 226Ra levels (mBq.L -2) ranged to 144.08. People eating grouse from the study area are unlikely to consume radionuclides in excess of limits currently established
by Canadian regulatory authorities.
A single center, retrospective analysis of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection repair early outcome at a tertiary care center in India
Authors: Tailor Kamlesh B , Dharmani Khushboo H , Kadam Shankar V , Kattana Hari Bipin R , Rao Suresh G
Published: March 2023

Context:

In recent years, increasing awareness and early detection has made total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) a relatively common congenital heart condition presenting to children’s heart centers in India. The condition was associated with significant morbidity and mortality in the past due to various reasons. Improvement in perioperative management has markedly changed the outcomes of TAPVC even in a developing country.

Material and Methods:

All patients with TAPVC operated between June 2013 and February 2018 at our center were included in the study. Post repair 30-days mortality and morbidity were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 166 patients were divided into supracardiac (91), infracardiac (45), cardiac (18), and mixed type (12). It also divided our cohort into obstructed and unobstructed types. The duration of inotrope usage in the obstructed group was significantly higher compared to the unobstructed group. Statistically, significant difference was noticed for the duration of ventilation 85.17 ± 80.94 h in obstructed type versus 49.23 ± 60.7 h in the unobstructed group, and in ICU stay (days) in obstructed (9.64 ± 5.96) and unobstructed group (6.29 ± 5.12). The morbidity parameters such as duration of an inotrope, ventilation, and length of ICU stay had a negative correlation between body surface area (BSA) of the patient but no correlation in respect to duration of CPB and ACC time. Mortality was found to be higher in lower BSA, infracardiac type (7/9), and obstructed variants of TAPVC (9/9) patients.

Conclusions:

Longer duration of inotrope usage, mechanical ventilation, and ICU stay were seen in obstructed TAPVC in comparison to unobstructed TAPVC patients. Duration of CPB or aortic cross-clamp had no effects on morbidity parameters. In our cohort of TAPVC patients, lower BSA was strongly associated with the longer requirement of inotropes, prolong ventilation time, and ICU stay. The risk factors for mortality in our study include lower BSA, infracardiac, and obstructed type of TAPVC.
Volatile anesthetic preconditioning modulates oxidative stress and nitric oxide in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Dharmalingam Sathish Kumar , Amirtharaj G Jayakumar , Ramachandran Anup , Korula Mary
Published: March 2023

Background:

Myocardial preconditioning using volatile anesthetics such as isoflurane and sevoflurane have beneficial effects in decreasing morbidity in cardiac surgical patients. Studies in animal models have indicated that reactive oxygen and nitrogen species probably play a role in mediating these effects. However, data from human studies are scarce and the differential effect of sevoflurane vs. isoflurane on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) has not been studied extensively.

Materials and Methods:

Randomized clinical control trial comparing preconditioning effects of volatile agents isoflurane and sevoflurane when administered during coronary artery bypass surgeries on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Serum samples were collected at 3 time points before induction, after cross clamp release and one hour after separation from CPB. Levels of oxidative stress markers and nitric oxide were analyzed in these samples.

Results:

Hemodynamic indices, cardio-pulmonary bypass duration, and ICU stay were similar between the groups. CKMB values 12 hours post-op were decreased in majority of patients in the sevoflurane group compared to isoflurane. Serum malondialdehyde and nitrate levels were lower with sevoflurane (P < 0.05) when compared to the isoflurane group, but no significant differences in protein carbonyl content or protein thiol content were evident between the 2 groups. Sevoflurane also prevented the decrease in total thiols during later stages of surgery.

Conclusions:

Volatile anesthetics, isoflurane and sevoflurane modulate oxidative and nitrosative stress during CABG. Between the two pre-conditioning agents, isoflurane seems to provide better protection during the pre-bypass period, while sevoflurane provides protection during both pre- as well as post-bypass period.
A typical presentation of extruded right coronary artery stent
Authors: Subrahmanyam Adapa S S , Karthikeyan Ranjith B , Kodali Rajesh , Sambandham Kamalkkannan G
Published: March 2023

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is an universally accepted and standardized procedure for obstructive coronary artery diseases with minimal complication rates, including iatrogenic coronary artery perforation (CAP). Most of the coronary perforations present earlier during the time of procedure or immediately after the procedure. Delayed presentation is very rare and presents within days or weeks. The present case showed the delayed atypical presentation of stent extrusion as a swelling in the right hypochondrium three years after the procedure. This is a rare case of long standing right coronary artery stent extrusion presented atypically as a right hypochondrial swelling.
Renal Function and Inflammatory Response in Neonates Undergoing Cardiac Surgery With or Without Antegrade Cerebral Perfusion—A Post hoc Analysis
Authors: Jahnukainen Timo , Rautiainen Paula , Tainio Juuso , Pätilä Tommi , Salminen Jukka T , Keski-Nisula Juho
Published: March 2023

Background:

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) may lead to tissue hypoxia, inflammatory response, and risk for acute kidney injury (AKI). We evaluated the prevalence of AKI and inflammatory response in neonates undergoing heart surgery requiring CPB with or without antegrade cerebral perfusion (ACP).

Methods:

Forty neonates were enrolled. The patients were divided into two groups depending on the use of ACP. AKI was classified based on the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Inflammatory response was measured using plasma concentrations of interleukins 6 (IL-6) and 10 (IL-10), white blood cell count (WBC), and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Results:

Eight patients (20%) experienced AKI: five (29%) in the ACP group and three (13%) in the non-ACP group (P = 0.25). Postoperative peak plasma creatinine and urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin were significantly higher in the ACP group than in the non-ACP group [46.0 (35.0–60.5) vs 37.5 (33.0-42.5), P = 0.044 and 118.0 (55.4–223.7) vs 29.8 (8.1–109.2), P = 0.02, respectively]. Four patients in the ACP group and one in the non-ACP group required peritoneal dialysis (P = 0.003). Postoperative plasma IL-6, IL-10, and CRP increased significantly in both groups. There were no significant differences between the ACP and non-ACP groups in any of the inflammatory parameters measured.

Conclusions:

No significant difference in the AKI occurrence or inflammatory response related to CPB modality could be found. In our study population, inflammation was not the key factor leading to AKI. Due to the limited number of patients, these findings should be interpreted with caution.
Emergent Pulmonary Thromboembolectomy and Atrial Septal Aneurysmectomy for Intracardiac Impending Paradoxical Embolism
Authors: Klompas Allan M , Greason Kevin , Click Roger L , Mauermann William J
Published: March 2023

Although a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is relatively common, confirmed reports of thrombus entrapped within a PFO are uncommon. Management of impending paradoxical embolism (IPE), also called a thrombus in transit, lacks consensus but includes systemic anticoagulation (e.g., heparin), systemic thrombolysis, or surgical thrombectomy. We present a case of IPE diagnosed with intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) as well as a novel en bloc approach to atrial septal aneurysmectomy to minimize embolism and facilitate repair of the interatrial septum. Timely use of intraoperative TEE may aid in diagnosis and help guide the surgical approach to minimize embolic risk with an IPE.
Fluid Resuscitation after Cardiac Surgery in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ramanan Mahesh , Roberts Shaun , McCullough James Patrick Adrian , Naidoo Rishendran , Rapchuk Ivan , Matebele Mbakise , Tabah Alexis , Kruger Peter , Smith Julian , Shekar Kiran
Published: March 2023

Context and Aims:

To describe current fluid and vasopressor practices after cardiac surgery in Australia and New Zealand cardiothoracic intensive care units (ICU).

Design and Setting:

This web-based survey was conducted in cardiothoracic ICUs in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods:

Intensivists, cardiac surgeons, and anesthetists were contacted to complete the online survey that asked questions regarding first and second choice fluids and vasopressors and the tools and factors that influenced these choices.

Results:

There were 96 respondents including 51 intensivists, 27 anesthetists, and 18 cardiac surgeons. Balanced crystalloids were the most preferred fluids (70%) followed by 4% albumin (18%) overall and among intensivists and anesthetists; however, cardiac surgeons (41%) preferred 4% albumin as their first choice. The most preferred second choice was 4% albumin (74%). Among vasopressors, noradrenaline was the preferred first choice (93%) and vasopressin the preferred second choice (80%). 53% initiated blood transfusion at a hemoglobin threshold of 70 g/L. Clinical acumen and mean arterial pressure were the most commonly used modalities in determining the need for fluids.

Conclusions:

There is practice variation in preference for fluids used in cardiac surgical patients in Australia and New Zealand; however, balanced crystalloids and 4% albumin were the most popular choices. In contrast, there is broad agreement with the use of noradrenaline and vasopressin as first and second-line vasopressors. These data will inform the design of future studies that aim to investigate hemodynamic management post cardiac surgery.
Diagnosis of absent right superior vena cava with intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography in a child with Holt-Oram syndrome
Authors: Misra Satyajeet , Mohanty Satyapriya , Sathia Siddhartha , Mahapatra Rudra Pratap , Tapuria Priyank
Published: March 2023

Holt-Oram syndrome is a rare autosomal disorder with cardiac, vascular, and upper limb anomalies. Previous reports have described anesthetic and perioperative challenges including difficulty in arterial and venous cannulations, airway management and rhythm, and temperature abnormalities. There are no previous reports of absent right superior vena cava (SVC) in children with Holt-Oram syndrome. We present images of a case where the diagnosis of absent right SVC with persistent left SVC was made with intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography and discuss the anesthetic and perfusion implications of such findings.
A Rare Case of Double Orifice Mitral Valve
Authors: Kandpal Shweta S , Kumar Anil , Mishra Manisha , Mehta Yatin
Published: March 2023

Double-orifice mitral valve is a rare congenital anomaly being associated with other cardiac defects and rarely presented in isolation. Valve function can be preserved for long and it is usually an incidental finding. We present an unusual case of double-orifice mitral valve with mitral regurgitation in a middle-aged man associated with the atrial septal defect, highlighting the role of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography.
A Rare Case of Cardiac Hydatid Cyst
Authors: Guha Amrita , Ranjan Rajeev , Saxena Pravin , Mehta Yatin
Published: March 2023

Hydatid infection of the heart is rare and there is always the lethal hazard of cyst perforation. We present an 18-year-old male from Kashmir valley who was admitted to the emergency department of our hospital with fever and chest pain for the last 4 days. Using echocardiography and cardiac tomography (CT), cardiac Echinococcosis was diagnosed. The results of surgical treatment of cardiac Echinococcosis were better than the conservative strategy. Surgical excision was performed. The patient had an uneventful recovery.
Right main bronchus obstruction caused by transesophageal echocardiography probe in a pediatric patient during complete repair of tetralogy of fallot
Authors: Singh Ankita , Tewari Prabhat
Published: March 2023

Intraoperative trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an important monitoring and diagnostic tool used during surgery for the repair of congenital heart lesions. Its ability to be used intraoperatively before and after cardiac repair makes it a unique tool. Although it is generally a safe procedure, due to the relatively large size and rigid nature of TEE probes airway complications, inadvertent extubation and insertion failures have been reported to occur predominantly in smaller patients (mean weight <7.15 kg). We would like to describe a case of complete correction of Tetralogy of Fallot in which intraoperative TEE resulted in right main bronchus compression.
Factors influencing the sperm retrieval rate of microdissection testicular sperm extraction in patients with nonmosaic Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Liu De-Feng , Wu Han , Zhang Zhe , Hong Kai , Lin Hao-Cheng , Mao Jia-Ming , Xu Hui-Yu , Zhao Lian-Ming , Jiang Hui
Published: March 2023

To investigate the factors affecting the sperm retrieval rate of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in patients with nonmosaic Klinefelter syndrome (KS), 64 patients with nonmosaic KS who underwent micro-TESE in the Center for Reproductive Medicine of Peking University Third Hospital (Beijing, China) between January 2016 and December 2017 were included in the study. Data on medical history, physical examination and laboratory examination results, and micro-TESE outcomes were collected. Patients were divided into two groups according to micro-TESE outcomes. The following factors were compared between the two groups by the Mann‒Whitney U test or Student’s t-test based on the distribution (nonnormal or normal) of the factors: age, testicular size, follicle-stimulating hormone level, luteinizing hormone level, testosterone level, and anti-Müllerian hormone level. The overall success rate of sperm retrieval was 50.0%. Correlation analysis showed that testicular volume was positively correlated with testosterone level. Using a logistic regression model, age and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were found to be better predictors for the sperm retrieval rate than the other parameters.
Cladophialophora bantiana Brain Abscess after Pediatric Liver Transplant: A Report of a Long-term Survivor
Authors: Boreddy Vivek , Zameer M. M. , Rao Sanjay , D’Cruz Ashley
Published: March 2023

We report long-term survival in a child who developed Cladophialophora bantiana brain abscess after liver transplantation with prolonged antifungal medications. A 6-year-old boy developed a left frontal abscess 1 month after orthotopic liver transplantation. Computed tomography-guided stereotactic aspiration was done which grew C. bantiana. The child was started on voriconazole and amphotericin B. Two months later, he underwent left frontal craniotomy with debridement for increase in intracranial lesions. Amphotericin B was administered for 3 weeks. He was discharged on oral posaconazole. On stopping posaconazole after 6 months, the child developed convulsions. Hence, it was restarted. Posaconazole was continued for 6 years and stopped. He is 11 years post liver transplant doing well. C. bantiana brain abscess in a child after liver transplant is very rare and is associated with high mortality. Improved survival mandates surgical evacuation of abscess and prolonged antifungal therapy.
Spectrum of COVID-19 Infections in Renal Transplant Recipients: A Single-Center Case Series
Authors: Mukherjee Topoti , Bonu Ravishankar , Prakash G. K. , Sankaran Sundar , Ballal Sudarshan
Published: March 2023

Objective:

COVID-19 infection can be mild to devastating in renal transplant recipients. We looked at the clinical course in all the renal transplant recipients who attended our hospital for COVID-19 infection.

Study Design:

Case series - This was a retrospective observational study of renal transplant recipients infected with varying degrees of COVID-19 infection, who sought care in our hospital. COVID-19 infection was defined as mild, moderate, or severe based on the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

Settings and Participants:

The study included all renal transplant recipients with a functioning graft, who attended our hospital for COVID-19 infection between July 2020 and January 2022. Their data were obtained from electronic records.

Results and Observations:

A total of 18 renal transplant recipients sought care at our center for COVID-19 infection. There were 19 episodes of COVID infection in these 18 patients (one reinfection). Seven of these were transplanted at our center and 11 were transplanted elsewhere and were following up at our center. Of the 18 patients, 12 (66.67%) had mild infection, 2 (11.11%) had moderate COVID-19 infection, and 4 (22.22%) had severe or critical disease. Two of the severe cases died with a functioning graft, one had graft loss, and one recovered. Acute kidney injury occurred in 22.22% of cases (n = 4). The most common presenting symptom was fever (77.78%). The most common comorbidity was hypertension. The source of infection was predominantly the community (17/18 patients). The number of renal transplants during the above period at our center was 24. The infection rate and mortality rate among these patients were 29.16% (n = 7) and 42/1000 (n = 1), respectively.

Limitations:

The study was based on the availability of data in our electronic records. There was no standard immunosuppression protocol followed. The retrospective design and small numbers are added limitations of our study. As we included all renal transplant recipients with COVID-19 infection irrespective of the time and place of transplant, the infection rate and mortality rate could not be computed on all 18 patients using a common denominator.

Conclusion:

Transplant patients have a variable outcome after COVID-19 infection. There may be an inherent individual susceptibility in addition to risk factors such as immunocompromised state and diabetes.
Correlates of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease in Stable Postrenal Transplant Patients from South India
Authors: Manual Maria Bethsaida , Medooru Kusuma Kumari , Yadagiri Lakshmi Amancharla , Vanajakshamma Velam , Bitla Aparna R. , Ram Rapur , Vishnubotla Siva Kumar
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) show increased mortality after 1st year of undergoing renal transplantation. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the major cause of mortality in these patients. Oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction (ED) represent a key triad for the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. The present study was undertaken to assess OS, inflammatory biomarkers, and ED as a surrogate marker of atherosclerosis in stable RTRs.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty stable post-RTRs along with 30 healthy individuals as controls were included in the study conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India. Lipid profile; OS markers; malondialdehyde (MDA), ischemia-modified albumin (IMA), and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP); inflammatory marker high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and interleukin 6 (IL-6); ED markers nitric oxide (NO) and P-selectin were estimated using standard methods. Lipid indices were calculated. Carotid intima-media thickness, two-dimensional echocardiogram, and renal Doppler scans were done.

Results:

No difference in lipid profile was observed between the RTRs and the control groups. RTRs had significantly higher oxidant markers (MDA and IMA), inflammatory marker (IL-6), marker of ED (NO), and lower antioxidant marker (FRAP) (P < 0.05) compared to the control group. RTRs had significantly more number of carotid plaques compared to the control group. A positive correlation was observed between number of carotid plaque and OS, ED, and inflammatory markers.

Conclusion:

RTRs have increased CVD risk despite undergoing renal replacement therapy. This can be attributed to the increased OS and inflammation which is seen in these patients.
A Prospective Observational Study to Compare ABO Isoagglutinin Titer by Conventional Test Tube and Column Agglutination Technique after Heat Inactivation of Plasma in O Blood Group Individuals
Authors: Ranjan Shweta , Pandey Prashant , Setya Divya , Kumari Supriya
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims:

When determining ABO antibody titers, IgG antibodies can be masked by immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies. Hence, the measurement of actual concentration of IgG requires methods such as heat inactivation (HI) of plasma. This study was aimed at determining the effects of HI on IgM and IgG titers performed by conventional test tube (CTT) technique and column agglutination technique (CAT).

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective, observational study conducted from October 2018 to March 2020. All consecutive O group donors who gave consent for participation were included in the study. All samples were consecutively tested by CTT and CAT, before and after HI (pCTT and pCAT).

Results:

A total of 2005 donors were included. IgG titers were found to be more than IgM titers. pCTT IgG results are similar or lower when compared to results obtained by solid-phase red cell adherence (SPRCA), whereas pCAT IgG titers were higher with pCAT when compared to hemagglutination (HA)/SPRCA. The results of titers obtained by pCTT were lower as compared to pCAT and HA/SPRCA, with majority giving results <64. The median IgG and IgM titers for both anti-A and anti-B were highest in pCAT, whereas the median IgG and IgM anti-A and anti-B titers were similar to HA and pCTT.

Conclusion:

Results obtained by HA/SPRCA were closer to results obtained by pCTT, with the advantage of less time consumption, automation requiring less expertise, and no interobserver variation. Titers obtained by pCAT were higher in comparison to HA/SPRCA and pCTT results, due to high sensitivity.
Bad Aortoiliac Vessels: Not a Contraindication for Renal Transplantation
Authors: Khiste Saurabh Dileep , Ravi Jangamani , Siddini Vishwanath , Ballal Sudarshan , Dubey Deepak , Devanand N. S.
Published: March 2023

Studies on aortoiliac reconstruction for diseased vessels and renal transplantation are limited. We report a rare experience in reconstruction of aortobifemoral bypass using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) vascular graft, along with a side limb graft for the donor artery in living kidney transplantation. A 44-year-old male, with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease on dialysis, needing transplantation, was found to have diseased aortoiliac vessels with tight stenosis at the aortic bifurcation during workup for renal transplantation. The anastomosis of the donor renal artery to the native iliac vessel was a surgical challenge with risk of hypoperfusion to renal graft as well as subsequent lower-limb ischemia. Hence, we went ahead with aortobifemoral bypass using PTFE vascular graft and anastomosis of the donor renal artery to a side limb graft from the main graft. Posttransplantation, he had stable normal renal allograft function at 1-year follow-up.
Association of Abnormal Oral Habits with Body Mass Index among 6–12-year-old School Children in and Around Melmaruvathur: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Siva L , Krishnakumar R , Sugumaran DK , Mohan G , Ahamed SS , Prabhu A
Published: March 2023

Background:

The habit of eating more of sugary drinks and foods with high in trans fats and excessive saturated fatty foods, when the person is in stress has an effect on the individual’s weight.

Objectives:

To evaluate the body mass index (BMI) and determine its association with abnormal oral habits in 6–12-year-old school-going children.

Materials and Methods:

The 46 schools were selected based on simple random sampling technique and all children who were aged between 6 and 12 years were included in the study. Among 5525 children screened, 1665 (30.13%) had various types of abnormal oral habits. The BMI of these children was calculated. The obtained BMI values were compared using Chi-square test in IBM SPSS windows version 20 software, where P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The association between bruxism, lip biting, nail biting, and pencil biting habits with their BMI was found to be statistically significant and other habits like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, mouth breathing and masochistic habits with their BMI which was found to be statistically non-significant.

Conclusion:

The children with stress-related oral habits had high BMI and their associations were found to be statistically significant. Hence, identification of children with stress-related oral habits and sensitization of parents, teachers, and the caregiver is of great importance.
Breastfeeding and development of malocclusion
Authors: Koul Rahul , Datana Sanjeev , Ray Saugat
Published: March 2023

Umpteen studies have suggested that breastfeeding can prevent future skeletal and dental malocclusions. However, there is no fair evidence that the duration of breastfeeding affects skeletal or dental malocclusions in pediatric patients. Keeping the facts in mind, the objective of this systematic review was to review available updated articles on the impact of breastfeeding and nonnutritive sucking behaviors in deciduous and mixed dentition on different forms of malocclusions. The electronic databases used PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to obtain relevant data that met the eligibility criteria. The last 10 years of studies were covered in this narrative review. Out of 254 papers identified, this systematic review focused on 16 articles that met the eligibility criteria. To conclude it has been reviewed that breastfeeding appears to decrease the occurrence of malocclusion in the pediatric population. Furthermore, there appears to be a favorable correlation between the duration of breastfeeding and the reduction in the risk of developing malocclusion. More longitudinal studies are warranted to reduce bias, with data collected prospectively on the duration of exclusive breastfeeding and nonnutritive sucking behaviors, using specific survey questions, and subsequent clinical investigation of the occlusal status at the deciduous, mixed, and permanent teeth stages.
Is COVID-19 over in India? A review based on current evidence
Authors: Sarkar Atreyee , Karri Shantee Devi
Published: March 2023

This review attempts to summarize the present situation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the characteristics of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus based on the literature review available in the public domain to date. The novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19 was reported to occur in a seafood market in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. It is highly contagious and had spread to more than 200 countries worldwide. The WHO had declared it a global pandemic first time in history. The disease is characterized by fever, cough, cold, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat mostly. Severe infections in vulnerable subjects might cause complications and fatalities. Majority of the population of the world have been vaccinated against the virus. The world has seen several waves of the pandemic, three waves occurred in India so far. Till the availability of any established treatment for the disease, few norms such as social distancing, practicing hand and respiratory hygiene, wearing masks, and sanitizer usage were followed to contain the spread of the disease. Since the current Indian population has become used to staying with the disease and less cases being reported, the Indian Government has lifted restrictions such as wearing masks and social distancing.
A comparative study of 20% azelaic acid cream versus 5% tranexamic acid solution for the treatment of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in patients with acne vulgaris: A single-blinded randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sobhan Mohammadreza , Talebi-Ghane Elaheh , Poostiyan Elnaz
Published: March 2023

Background:

There is a lack of evidence on the therapeutic efficacy of topical tranexamic acid (TA) for the treatment of acne-related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The current study aimed to assess the efficacy of twice-daily administration of 20% azelaic acid (AZA) cream versus 5% TA solution for the treatment of PIH in patients with acne vulgaris.

Materials and Methods:

Patients in the present single-blinded randomized clinical trial were randomized into AZA or TA groups for 12 weeks. The rate of healing was assessed by scoring recorded photographs based on postacne hyperpigmentation index (PAHI) at baseline, 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks. The frequency of side effects was examined and recorded at each study time point.

Results:

Thirty volunteers in each treatment group completed the intervention. PAHI score in both AZA and TA groups improved during the study course (Ptime < 0.001, for both groups). However, mean PAHI scores were comparable in the two groups (Pgroup = 0.05). No significant interaction was also found between time and treatments in terms of PAHI score (Ptime × group = 0.66). The frequency of treatment-related side effects was significantly higher in the AZA group compared to the TA group at week 4 of treatment (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in the frequency of reported side effects at weeks 8 and 12 of the treatment (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Topical administration of 20% AZA cream and 5% TA solution was comparably efficient in the treatment of acne-related PIH with a significantly better safety profile of TA in the 1st month of the treatment.
An evaluation of Security Features based on Iso/Iec 25023 for a Distributed Autonomic Scientific Publisher Tool on a Permissioned Blockchain
Authors: Evaristo Correa Elder Bruno , Sousa Jeffson Celeiro , Gomes Abelém Antônio Jorge , Bezerra Oliveira Sandro Ronaldo
Published: March 2023

In the development of projects that aim at management and editorial evaluation methods, mechanisms that foster the product’s quality final have great importance. In this scenario, several areas are working together in search of better adequacy and standardization in software development. A basic example is the adequations of evaluation of software engineering and computer networks, which work, so that distributed applications are developed following evaluation criteria and standardized quality standards. In this context, we present the DASP software, an open-source distributed autonomous scientific publisher executed through an allowed blockchain network, automatically organized through intelligent contracts, an alternative to the decentralized management of editorial models. As a form of evaluation, one of the most current standards used by the international organization for standardization (ISO) to perform software quality measurements, ISO/IEC 25023, is adopted. Furthermore, we focused on the security aspect, which is one of the categories of ISO/IEC. This aspect was chosen because it was based on the main features that underpin blockchain technology. The quality measurement was carried out following several steps, such as the definition of ISO/IEC 25023, an adaptation of metrics for DASP software evaluation, calculations of the quality value of each functionality, and determination of recommendations for improvements in the software according to the estimates made.
Responding to the crisis: Implications of the challenges and opportunities of being a Church during COVID-19
Authors: Mncube Dumisani Wilfred , Ngema Thandiwe Nonkululeko , Buthelezi Zanele Gladness
Published: March 2023

A global crisis of this magnitude needs churches that have a deep wealth of knowledge, faith and wisdom to provide leadership when such a pandemic shakes the foundations of human society. Such a crisis can lead to seismic changes, but often does not; it simply clarifies current challenges and possibilities. The widespread virtual streaming of important Easter and Sunday sermons had a palpable impact on church life. This study investigates the challenges and opportunities of being a Church during the worst of times in the history of the Church. It uses a qualitative methodology. Four of the churches in KwaZulu-Natal were used as a case study. One leader in each church was purposively selected to participate in the data generation process. Furthermore, two ordinary members in each church were interviewed to explore how the faith communities are coping with responding to lockdown, social isolation, and physical distancing. The findings revealed that both church leaders and congregants were psychologically traumatised, and thought this crisis was a wake-up call to
capacitate the church to respond to such eventualities with one voice. The study recommends swift and immediate intervention that will change the outlook of the Church to reform business as usual to be technologically oriented.
Validity of Science Literacy on the Respiratory System in Indonesia’s Merdeka Curriculum
Authors: Apriliyani Putri , Susantini Endang , Yuliani Yuliani
Published: March 2023

Objective: This study aims to produce a junior high school-level scientific literacy test on the topic of the human respiratory system in the Merdeka Indonesia curriculum. Method: The method used in this study is a modified research and development method. The data collection technique was carried out using the validation method of Aiken calculations. The scientific literacy test instrument was developed using scientific literacy indicators from the adaptation of Gormally et al. (2012) combined with learning objectives. Then it was validated by three validators who are experts in their fields. The validator provides a Likert scale score (1-4) and suggestions as material for consideration for improvement. The validator assesses the instrument based on material substance, construction, and language aspects. The research data were analyzed quantitatively and descriptively. Results: The results of the validation were then carried out by Aiken calculations, with very valid results, namely the value of V ≤ 0.80 on the substance aspect of 0.89, the construction aspect of 0.94, and the language aspect of 0.93. The scientific literacy instruments developed are valid and can be used to measure the scientific literacy of junior high school students in the Merdeka Indonesia Curriculum. Novelty: This research can provide an overview of scientific literacy instruments per the Merdeka curriculum, which can motivate teachers to train in scientific literacy.
Sound approximate and asymptotic probabilistic bisimulations for PCTL
Authors: Bartoletti Massimo , Murgia Maurizio , Zunino Roberto
Published: March 2023

We tackle the problem of establishing the soundness of approximate
bisimilarity with respect to PCTL and its relaxed semantics. To this purpose,
we consider a notion of bisimilarity inspired by the one introduced by
Desharnais, Laviolette, and Tracol, and parametric with respect to an
approximation error $\delta$, and to the depth $n$ of the observation along
traces. Essentially, our soundness theorem establishes that, when a state $q$
satisfies a given formula up-to error $\delta$ and steps $n$, and $q$ is
bisimilar to $q'$ up-to error $\delta'$ and enough steps, we prove that $q'$
also satisfies the formula up-to a suitable error $\delta"$ and steps $n$. The
new error $\delta"$ is computed from $\delta$, $\delta'$ and the formula, and
only depends linearly on $n$. We provide a detailed overview of our soundness
proof. We extend our bisimilarity notion to families of states, thus obtaining
an asymptotic equivalence on such families. We then consider an asymptotic
satisfaction relation for PCTL formulae, and prove that asymptotically
equivalent families of states asymptotically satisfy the same formulae.
Avaliação da acurácia de filtro de realce para o diagnóstico de reabsorção de enxertos ósseos
Authors:   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Cabau Leonardo , Castanheira Alessandra Boaventura ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Casaroto Ana Regina ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Matheus Ricardo Alves ,   Universidade Estadual de Maringá - UEM, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Queiroz Polyane Mazucatto ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil.
Published: March 2023

Filtros radiográficos podem otimizar a acurácia de algumas tarefas de diagnóstico. O objetivo foi avaliar a acurácia de diagnóstico de filtro de realce de imagem radiográfica no diagnóstico de reabsorção de enxerto ósseo. Foram utilizadas 80 radiografias periapicais de implantes dentários associados à enxerto ósseo. As imagens radiográficas foram processadas e foi aplicado um filtro de realce. As radiografias foram avaliadas quanto à presença/ausência de reabsorção de enxerto. Não foi observado diferença significante entre a acurácia das radiografias periapicais para os diferentes níveis de perda de enxerto ósseo. O filtro de realce pode ser utilizado sem comprometer o diagnóstico.
Avaliação da comunidade zooplanctônica do lago do Parque do Ingá: um estudo preliminar
Authors:   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Batista João Vitor Bredariol , Silva Nicolas Ricci Bernardo da ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Petermann Vitoria Aparecida de Oliveira ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil., Matos Matheus Henrique de Oliveira de ,   Núcleo de Pesquisas em Limnologia, Ictiologia e Aquicultura, Universidade Estadual de Maringá- Maringá, Paraná., Silva Melissa Progênio da ,   Centro Universitário Ingá – Uningá, Maringá, PR, Brasil./Núcleo de Pesquisas em Limnologia, Ictiologia e Aquicultura, Universidade Estadual de Maringá- Maringá, Paraná.
Published: March 2023

O equilíbrio dos ecossistemas aquáticos ocorre devido as funções desempenhadas pelo por diferentes comunidades aquáticas, dentre elas o zooplâncton. Neste sentido, o presente estudo objetivou avaliar a riqueza e a densidade da comunidade zooplanctônica do lago urbano do Parque do Ingá. Foi realizada uma amostragem à subsuperfície do lago utilizando-se uma rede de plâncton com 68 µm de abertura de malha. Foram filtrados 100 litros de água. Verificou-se uma maior riqueza de protozoários testáceos e maior densidade de copépodes. Concluiu-se que o fluxo de corrente e a presença de cianobactérias foram determinantes sobre a estrutura da comunidade zooplanctônica.