bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Pulmonary Emboli as a Primary Presentation of Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mandal Amit , Thomas Nihal
Published: January 2024

A 57-year-old housewife presented with complaints of sudden onset of chest pain and dyspnea. Computed tomography angiography revealed saddle-shaped pulmonary emboli in the main pulmonary artery and its branches. Evaluation for the cause of pulmonary embolism revealed a heterogeneously enhancing lesion arising from the anterior aspect of the lower pole of the left kidney. She had no hematuria, flank pain, or any palpable abdominal mass. She underwent a left open radical nephrectomy with inferior vena cava thrombectomy. Given that only 10% of patients present with the classic triad, it is often difficult to diagnose renal cell carcinoma in the early stages. Therefore, a high index of suspicion in patients with atypical presentations can lead to an early diagnosis.
Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis: A Retrospective Study in Eastern India Based on Diagnostic Modalities
Authors: Adhikari Anindya , Das Tripti , Sardar Ashis , Sinha Anuradha , Majumdar Arijit , Dey Goutam
Published: January 2024

Background:

The most common site of tubercular infection is lungs, but various extrapulmonary sites also can be affected by tuberculosis (TB). Very few fine-needle aspiration-based studies supplemented by cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test (CBNAAT) and radiology have been conducted in any center of tribal-based area situated in Eastern India.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty extrapulmonary TB cases (28 males and 32 females) received during 3 years (May 2018–April 2021) were included in this study.

Results:

Diagnoses of different extrapulmonary tubercular lesions were: lymphadenitis (n = 27), cold abscess (n = 18), breast abscess (n = 2), epididymitis (n = 4), oral cavity (n = 3), spine, long bone (n = 2 cases each) and fingertip and TB of the penis (n = 1 case each). Forty-six cases were diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration cytology. CBNAAT diagnosed ten cases where the result of aspiration cytology was inconclusive. Radiology directly diagnosed four cases, whereas it helped another seven cases indirectly to clinch the proper diagnosis of extrapulmonary tubercular lesions.

Conclusion:

Tuberculous lymphadenitis was the most common extrapulmonary lesion. Females outnumber male cases. Aspiration cytology aided by CBNAAT and radiology proved indispensable to diagnose extrapulmonary tubercular lesions, especially for economically constrained persons.
Training and Deployment of Pastors’ Wives as Peer Counselors for a Church-based Support Service to Improve Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice in Nigeria: A Descriptive Review of Feasibility and Effectiveness
Authors: Alabi Temitope John
Published: January 2024

Inadequate support services for common breastfeeding problems are major reasons why many nursing mothers quit exclusive breastfeeding practice in Nigeria. The recent exodus of doctors and other health-care workers has made the situation worse. Community-based interventions are urgently needed to avoid a relapse of the marginal increase of the exclusive breastfeeding rate in the country. Therefore, this study reviewed the feasibility and effectiveness of training and deploying pastors’ wives as breastfeeding peer counselors along with leaders of women’s Bible study classes as co-counselors in a church-based support service to boost exclusive breastfeeding practice in the country. Searches were conducted using appropriate keywords in journals and databases such as Google Scholar, Christian Journal of Global Health, and PubMed. Relevant papers were selected and read thoroughly. Ideas, phrases, and clauses that answered the research questions were synthesized into themes. Previous partnerships with the church to provide support for specific health problems such as HIV/AIDS had been fruitful. The adoption of the Community Infant and Young Child Feeding Counseling Package in small priority areas by the government and its development partners yielded positive results. However, partnerships are necessary to make the service available nationwide. The use of existing opportunities such as the network of pastors’ will be an economical and rational form of the volunteer community mobilizers. Community-based breastfeeding peer counseling has effectively increased the initiation and duration of exclusive breastfeeding and provided an opportunity to address other problems related to breastfeeding. However, the allocation of matching grants to local government areas will be necessary to increase nutrition interventions and to motivate peer counselors.
Programmatic Assessment for the Specialty of Community Medicine for Undergraduate Medical Students
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: January 2024

Programmatic assessment is a holistic and unified approach to assessing the learning progress of medical students. The high-stakes decision to pass or fail medical students in the specialty of community medicine that depends on the performance in summative assessment. This makes the entire process of summative assessment quite challenging for medical students, as they cannot afford any mistakes on the day of summative assessment. We propose a programmatic assessment model for community medicine, by which we can overcome the prevailing shortcomings and take high-stakes decisions based on the longitudinal overview of multiple activities, rather than just performance on summative assessments. The proposed programmatic assessment for the specialty of community medicine will essentially have all these elements, which the community medicine department must cover with an intention to address subject-specific competencies. In conclusion, programmatic assessment has emerged as a valuable approach in the field of community medicine, as it is a comprehensive and systematic method to assess the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of medical students in different aspects of the specialty. Further, by ensuring integration between different assessment methods, we can longitudinally track the performance of students and eventually perform a more holistic evaluation of the competencies expected of medical students.
Impact of Novel Coronavirus Pandemic on Emergency and Elective Surgical Practice: A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Bansal Lalit Kumar , Gupta Stuti , Garg Meenu , Jain Atul , Kapur Neeti
Published: January 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a significant worldwide impact on general surgical practice. Since the beginning of this pandemic, hospitals have become a hot zone for the transmission of coronavirus. Routine and emergency surgical services have been severely disrupted worldwide due to this pandemic and may continue to be so for some time if more mutations take place in the virus. As of February 27, 2022, at 9 a.m., 43.5 crore positive cases were confirmed worldwide with over 6 million deaths. In India, 42,916,117 positive cases were confirmed to this date with 513,756 deaths. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgery daily practice and surgical patients was very high. There was a high impact on elective, semi-elective, cancer surgery, transplant programs, and education programs in our institution during the COVID-19 era. The most common reasons were being reduced number of availabilities of non-COVID-19 beds in the general surgical ward, difficulty in separating COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients, high transmission, and infection rate of COVID-19, reduced number of surgical intensive care unit beds and operation theatre due to allotment of these exclusively for COVID-19 patients. The reduced number of staff and health-care workers due to posting in the COVID-19 ward was also a major factor in the reduced number of electives and other surgeries in our institution. We need to find ways to continue providing essential medical services to patients while fighting this pandemic since it might take longer than expected to end. The present report summarizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our surgical services and the changes that we have adopted for better care of surgical patients and safe surgical practice to provide valuable information worldwide. This article also summarizes current evidence and recommendations for changes to surgical practice in our hospital according to the World Health Organization, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Indian Council of Medical Research, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines to minimize the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical services.
The different prognostic factors between metastatic and nonmetastatic disease of esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Zhong Liping , Pan Yuefen , Han Shuwen , Qi Quan , Liao Haihong , Jiang Yizhen , Shen Junjun
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

The specific risk factors of metastatic and nonmetastatic esophageal neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) are still uncertain. Whether primary site surgery is necessary for all patients with esophageal NEC is unknown.

Methods:

Patients with esophageal NEC in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2004 to 2014 were selected. STATA 12 was used to analyze the clinical and pathological features of esophageal NEC.

Results:

In total, 241 patients with esophageal NEC were included. Metastatic patients had shorter overall survival than nonmetastatic patients (6.03 versus 11.90 months, respectively). Prognostic factors varied between metastatic and nonmetastatic esophageal NEC. The location of the primary tumor is a key point for the prognosis of esophageal NEC. For nonmetastatic esophageal NEC, patients with tumors in the upper third of the esophagus had the worst survival, and patients with metastatic esophageal NEC with a primary tumor in the lower part of the esophagus tended to have an increased risk of death. Moreover, age ≥68 years (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28–3.31; P < 0.01) and large cell carcinoma (HR = 2.79; 95% CI: 1.30–6.00; P < 0.01) were independent risk factors in patients with metastatic esophageal NEC. Primary site resection benefited patients with nonmetastatic esophageal NEC (HR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.07–0.56; P < 0.01) rather than patients with metastatic esophageal NEC (HR = 0.91; 95% CI: 0.29–2.83; P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

Our study presented that primary tumor location is an important risk factor for nonmetastatic esophageal NEC patients. Age and pathological type are important risk factors for patients with metastatic esophageal NEC. Nonmetastatic esophageal NEC will benefit from primary tumor resection. Systematic treatment is recommended for metastatic esophageal NEC.
Diffuse Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor of the Wrist with Joint Destruction and Invasion
Authors: Jerome J. Terrence Jose , Dhanalakshmi  , Lavanya
Published: January 2024

A 54-year-old man took antitubercular drugs for 1 year for right wrist pain, swelling, and restriction of movements, with no improvements. Magnetic resonance imaging wrist reported multiple nodules and soft-tissue mass with intraosseous erosions involving carpal bones, distal radius, and ulna. Resection of the mass, excision of the distal ulna, and wrist arthrodesis were done. The histopathology confirmed a diffuse tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT). No postoperative radiotherapy or systemic therapies were given. The patient remained symptom-free at 2 years of follow-up. Diffuse TSGCT with joint destruction and invasion of the wrist is rare. Therefore, a high index of suspicion is required before considering the most common infective etiologies in the wrist.
Correlation between Clinical Examination, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Arthroscopy in Meniscal Injuries of the Knee: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kotian Prem , Nayak. U Keerthan Ranga , Annappa Rajendra , Joe C. Varghese , Sujir Premjit Rabindra , Tripathi Anshul , Thaleppady Megha
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

In comparison to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging, this study compares the diagnostic efficacy of meniscal injury with clinical examination tests such the McMurray’s test, Thessaly test, and joint line tenderness.

Methodology:

Two hundred and fifteen patients having a history of knee injuries with symptoms such as pain, instability, and locking were studied from June 2020 to June 2022 at our institution, for a 2-year period.

Results:

The sensitivity and specificity of McMurray’s test for medial meniscus were 84% and 84.21%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity for medial joint line tenderness were 88.15% and 55.55%, respectively. Thessaly’s test for the medial meniscus was 92.10% sensitive and 88.8% specific. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI for medial meniscal injury were 94.87% and 93.75%, respectively. McMurray’s test for lateral meniscus had a sensitivity of 84.44% and a specificity of 76.92%. Lateral joint line tenderness for lateral meniscus had a sensitivity of 86.95% and a specificity of 66.66%. The sensitivity and specificity of Thessaly’s test for lateral meniscus were 93.33% and 84.61%, respectively. MRI revealed a sensitivity of 93.75% and a specificity of 90% for lateral meniscus injuries.

Conclusion:

Even though MRI is a precise and noninvasive method for detecting meniscal injuries, a thorough clinical examination by a skilled physician has the same diagnostic power as MRI to rule out meniscal injuries. In contrast to previous tests, the Thessaly test can be used as a useful tool to detect meniscal injuries, as we discovered in our study.
Megaprosthesis Elbow Replacement in Chronic Nonunion of Distal Humeral Fracture
Authors: Chowdhury Plaban Nath , Vaish Abhishek , Vaishya Raju
Published: January 2024

Megaprosthesis replacement of the joints is mainly indicated to manage the bone defects caused by the excision of malignant tumors. Megaprosthesis replacement of the elbow is comparatively less done as compared to the knee joint. In posttraumatic sequelae of elbow injuries like chronic nonunion of distal humeral fracture with bone defects, the megaprosthesis replacement of the elbow can be a viable option to restore the function and stability of the elbow. We present here a case of chronic nonunion of the distal humerus managed successfully by megaprosthesis replacement of the elbow.
Cost-effective External Keel SACH Foot for Syme’s Prosthesis
Authors: Pataniak Rakesh , Kumari Rani
Published: January 2024

Background:

The prosthetic management of Syme’s amputation is a challenge when it comes to the attachment of SACH foot. SACH foot is made up of small narrow wooden keel which is covered by soft flexible sponge rubber therefore it is difficult to attach SACH foot directly to the Syme’s socket. Moreover, there is no rigid structure of the SACH foot available for bonding with the laminated socket considering the Syme’s amputee.

Aim:

This new design of prosthetic foot provide easy attachment to the Syme’s socket, thus helping in the prosthetic management of Syme’s amputation.

Methodology:

We have developed this Syme’s prosthetic foot with polyurethane rigid foam block, balata cloth, high-density Ethaflex, wooden block, and microcellular rubber. The design and dimensions of the prosthetic foot were decided such that it helps in easy attachment to the Syme’s prosthesis.

Results:

The attachment of this new Syme’s foot to the laminated socket has made the fabrication procedure of the Syme’s prosthesis more easy. The amputee also should improvement in cadence and more natural gait with this design.

Conclusion:

The Syme’s foot design provides natural gait in addition to the reduction of energy expenditure. This foot can also be used for transtibial prosthesis in addition to Syme’s prosthesis.
Investigation of Serum Trace Element Levels of Nigerian Women at a Late Stage of Pregnancy
Authors: Joseph Gregory Uchechukwu , Oyediran Oyewale Thomas , Oladiti Rashidat Abidemi , Iyanda Ayobola Abolape
Published: January 2024

Introduction:

Minerals such as selenium, zinc, copper, and manganese often referred to as antioxidant trace elements have been recognized as modulators of oxidative stress-induced conditions. Due to this very crucial function, their constant monitoring during gestation is not only encouraged but desirable.

Aim:

The study aims to evaluate serum levels of Zn, Cu, Mn, and Se during gestation.

Materials and Methods:

Forty third-trimester pregnant women (29 weeks to term) attending antenatal clinics at maternity centers within the Osogbo metropolis as well as 40 apparently healthy women, age matched, and nonpregnant that served as controls were participants for the study. Serum obtained from 5 mL of blood was used for the elemental study (inductive computerize plasma emission spectrometry). Data were analyzed using Student’s t-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The level of statistical significance was P < 0.05.

Results:

Concentrations of serum trace elements (Zn, Mn, and Cu) levels were significantly lower, but selenium was significantly higher in pregnant women compared to the control group. Correlation results revealed a relationship only between copper and manganese.

Conclusion:

The results of this study showed that Nigerian pregnant women in the Osogbo metropolis are at risk of zinc, copper, and manganese depletions. This suggests that both the fetus and pregnant mother may be susceptible to oxidative stress-induced conditions.
Physiotherapeutic Approaches in Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint Arthritis for Pain, Function, and Grip Strength
Authors: Jeevrajani Jeel Mahendrabhai , Sheth Megha
Published: January 2024

Thumb carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis (CMC OA) is a common condition characterized by chronic progressive degeneration of the joint cartilage. Patients present with complaints of pain at the base of the thumb, morning stiffness, and muscle weakness, all of which impair hand function and thus interfere with activities and social participation. Grip and lateral pinch movements are most affected and have a direct impact on independence, self-care, and leisure activities. This review’s objective is to find physical therapy techniques for patients with thumb CMC OA’ and their effect on pain, function, grip strength, and quality of life. Databases searched were Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect with keywords CMC arthritis, OA, function, and physiotherapy. Articles published in the last 5 years, in the English language, randomized controlled trials, controlled trials, prospective studies, or systemic reviews were included. Duplicate and nonrelevant articles, case reports, and noncontrolled trials were excluded. Thirteen articles were found of which five articles were included. Prefabricated CMC-metacarpophalangeal immobilization splint, proprioceptive exercises, and ischemic compression over myofascial trigger points in the first dorsal interossei, first dorsal interossei strengthening, and a self-management program called OA thumb-based therapy trial has shown an effect on pain, pinch strength, grip strength, and quality of life. Additional treatments can be used along with conservative treatment for better results in reducing pain, improving grip strength, function, and quality of life in patients with CMC joint arthritis. Utilizing these methods can enhance clinical practice interventions in the management of thumb CMC joint arthritis.
The Effect of Filmed Modeling by Cartoon Character on Anxiety of Children during Pit and Fissure Sealant Application under Rubber Dam Isolation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Dhillon Steffi , Deshpande Anshula Neeraj , Poonacha K. S. , Bargale Seema , Macwan Chirag , Jaiswal Vidhi
Published: January 2024

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of filmed modeling by cartoon character on the anxiety of children during pit and fissure sealant application under rubber dam isolation.

Methodology:

The study consisted of a total of 36 children who were randomly allotted to interventional and control groups by flip-coin method. A prerecorded audio-visual film of a cartoon character getting the treatment done was shown to children included in the interventional group. The anxiety level was checked before and after the application of pit and fissure sealant using the Modified Child Dental Anxiety Scale.

Results:

Pearson’s Chi-square tests and Wilcoxon sign-ranked test were applied for statistical analysis (P < 0.5), wherein statistically significant changes in anxiety level were observed among children following the filmed modeling.

Conclusion:

Film modeling is an efficient technique to manage 7–9-year-old children’s anxiety as well as to instill positive behavior during dental treatment.
Tensile strength and elastic modulus of gutta-percha cones disinfected with sodium hypochlorite at different immersion times: An in vitro comparative study
Authors: Bellido-Guzmán Rolando , Ladera-Castañeda Marysela , Castro-Pérez Vargas Antonieta M , López-Gurreonero Carlos , Cornejo-Pinto Alberto , Aliaga-Mariñas Ana , Cervantes-Ganoza Luis A , Cayo-Rojas César F
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Aim:

The tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of gutta-percha cones can be chemically altered due to disinfectant solutions. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to compare tensile strength and elastic modulus of gutta-percha cones subjected to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) disinfection at different times.

Materials and Methods:

This in vitro and longitudinal experimental study consisted of 45 gutta-percha cones, divided equally into three groups: Group 1 (disinfection with 2.5% NaOCl), Group 2 (disinfection with 5.25% NaOCl), and control group. All groups were subdivided according to immersion times for 1, 5, and 10 minutes. Tensile strength and elastic modulus were measured with a universal testing machine. For comparing more than two independent groups, parametric analysis of variance test with Sheffe’s post hoc was used and for multivariate analysis, and multivariate analysis of variance test based on Pillai’s Trace was used. In all statistical analysis, a significance level P ≤ 0.05 was considered.

Results:

When comparing the tensile strength of gutta-percha cones, no significant differences were observed after being immersed at 1, 5, and 10 minutes in NaOCl 2.5% (P = 0.715) and 5.25% (P = 0.585). Regarding the elastic modulus, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed in those that were immersed in NaOCl 2.5% and 5.25% for 1, 5, and 10 minutes. Furthermore, increased NaOCl concentration significantly reduced the elastic modulus (P < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences in tensile strength (P > 0.05) and elastic modulus (P > 0.05), when evaluating the interaction between NaOCl concentration and time.

Conclusion:

Increasing NaOCl concentration significantly reduced the modulus of elasticity without affecting the tensile strength of gutta-percha cones, regardless of immersion time. Furthermore, the interaction of time and NaOCl concentration did not significantly affect the tensile strength and elastic modulus.
A bibliometric analysis of most cited papers on vesiculobullous oral lesions
Authors: Gopinathan Pillai Arun , Aboalela Ali , Haq Ikram U , Iyer Kiran , Siddeeqh Salman , Khan Sulthan R , Abbiramy Gopala Krishnan
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Introduction:

A well-known method for quantitatively evaluating scholarly work is bibliometric analysis. Best-cited papers raise awareness of the influential publications and patterns in the literature on a specific subject. The objective was to conduct bibliometric analysis to determine most cited articles on vesiculobullous oral lesions. This is the first study on citation analysis with respect to vesiculobullous oral lesions.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective data search was explored on December 2022 using the Scopus database. The articles were evaluated, and fundamental data for bibliometric analysis was reviewed. Standard details about the author, linked organizations, publishing year, and place of origin were noted. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square analysis. VOSviewer software was used to determine the bibliometric network analysis for co-occurrence among coauthors and commonly used keywords.

Results:

A total of 344 articles published from 1971 to 2022 were included in the study. A total of 6680 citations and 19.41 citations per article were observed. The journal Archives of Dermatology received the most citation. There was a significant association between the number of citations and the journal type (open access vs. non-open access) (P < 0.05). Four to five highly related clusters with the help of VOSviewer software were found during co-occurrence network analysis.

Conclusion:

The top 10 articles on vesiculobullous oral lesions that received the most citations were listed in detail in the present study. This will be a valuable resource for academics, clinicians, and researchers in the fields of dermatology, general pathology, oral pathology, and oral medicine.
Update on the Application of Ultrasonography in Understanding Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lee Wen-Chin , Cheng Ben-Chung , Lee Chien-Te , Liao Shang-Chih
Published: January 2024

With an estimated prevalence of 1 in 1000 individuals globally, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) stands as the most prevalent inherited renal disorder. Ultrasonography (US) is the most widely used imaging modality in the diagnosis and monitoring of ADPKD. This review discusses the role of US in the evaluation of ADPKD, including its diagnostic accuracy, limitations, and recent advances. An overview of the pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of ADPKD has also been provided. Furthermore, the potential of US as a noninvasive tool for the assessment of disease progression and treatment response is examined. Overall, US remains an essential tool for the management of ADPKD, and ongoing research efforts are aimed at improving its diagnostic and prognostic capabilities.
Intermediate-term outcome of Aurolab aqueous drainage implant in refractory glaucoma
Authors: Mittal Shanu , Pegu Julie , Daga Darshana , Dubey Suneeta
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the intermediate-term outcomes of Aurolab aqueous drainage implant (AADI) in terms of intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering from baseline levels, the number antiglaucoma medications (AGMs) in the postoperative phase, and the rate of complications.

METHODS:

It was a retrospective interventional case series. All patients who underwent AADI surgeries with sulcus fixation from March 2018 to September 2018 at a tertiary eye care hospital in North India with a minimum follow-up of 1 year were recruited for the study. A standard AADI technique was employed. The primary outcome measures were the postoperative IOP, the requirement of AGMs, and early and late postoperative complications.

RESULTS:

A total of 20 patients were recruited in the study. The mean follow-up period was 25.25 ± 3.76 months. The mean IOP reduced from 33.20 ± 7.95 mmHg to 19.45 ± 9.19 mmHg at day 1, 13.62 ± 3.92 mmHg at 6 months, 12.78 ± 3.36 mmHg at 1 year, and 13.0 ± 2.53 mmHg at 2 years postoperatively (P < 0.001). The mean number of AGMs also reduced from 3.7 ± 0.97 to 0.35 ± 0.81 at 6 months, 0.42 ± 0.83 at 1 year, and 0.26 ± 0.73 at 2 years postoperatively (P < 0.001). Early postoperative complications, such as hypotony and hyphema, were seen in 5 (25%) patients, although none of them was sight-threatening. Late postoperative complications, such as hypertensive phase and persistent fibrinous membrane, were also seen in five eyes.

CONCLUSION:

The study assessed the clinical outcomes, safety profile, and long-term AGM requirement with AADI and found it to be a good viable surgical option in refractory glaucoma.
Full-field electroretinography – when do we need it?
Authors: Khan Arif O.
Published: January 2024

Multimodal imaging and genetic testing allow sophisticated assessment of suspected inherited retinal disease. Given the availability of such technology, some question whether the full-field electrogram (ffERG) is needed anymore. In fact, a ffERG remains essential for certain clinical scenarios. The goal of this case-based review is to provide a clear understanding of what clinical situations warrant a ffERG. All practicing ophthalmologists should be familiar with this information.
Unique phenotypic–genotypic correlation in Saudi patients with ALMS1 mutations
Authors: Almoallem Basamat M.
Published: January 2024

Mutations in the ALMS1 gene have been linked to isolated inherited retinal dystrophy or Alström syndrome. This report illustrates the unique pattern of ALMS1-associated diseases in a set of three simplex Saudi patients originating from unrelated consanguineous families. A detailed ophthalmological assessment was performed at the Department of Ophthalmology at King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Next-generation sequencing vision panel revealed recessive ALMS1 mutations (reference sequence NM_015120). As a result, three distinct pathogenic ALMS1 mutations were identified; the first one is a nonsense mutation (c.8158C>T: p.R2720X) which has recently been identified in a Chinese patient, while the other two are known to have a founder effect in the Saudi population (the frameshift: C.848dupA: p.E283fs and the splicing: C.11870-2A>T: p.?). Clinically, a prominent nerve fiber layer was observed in the three studied patients with variable expectations of vessel attenuation. In addition, two of our patients observed unusual presentation of specific retinal pigment epithelium pigmentations in semi/halo-arrangement around the macula. Thus far, our report expands the phenotypic–genotypic spectrum of ALMS1-associated diseases and supports the principles of applying precision medicine in Saudi Arabia by utilizing the fact that common founder mutations were identified and unique phenotype was observed.
Spherical equivalent pre- and post-implantable collamer lens implantation in patients with myopia, hyperopia, and stable keratoconus
Authors: Alabbasi Omar M. , Vargas Jose , Al Mutlak Mohammed , Fairaq Rafah , Al Saleh Ahmed
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

Refractive errors are common in Saudi Arabia and keratorefractive surgeries are usually done to correct them. However, not all patients are fit and complications postoperatively are a concern. Implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation can be used for patients who are not fit for keratorefractive surgeries. ICL can also be used for keratoconus. We elected to evaluate the outcomes of patients who had ICL implantation for refractive errors or keratoconus.

METHODS:

We retrospectively reviewed patients aged between 21 and 45 years old, who attended the anterior segment clinic at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital and who had spherical equivalent (SE) ranging between (+16 to −23 diopters), and had ICL implantation between February 2015 and September 2017. The SE was documented before and after the surgery. Depending on the SE, patients were divided into two groups (myopia and hyperopia). Statistical analysis was done to evaluate the change in mean SE before and after surgery for patients.

RESULTS:

We identified 169 eyes and 155 (92%) were myopic before the surgery. Before surgery, the mean SE was −8.6 and the standard deviation (SD) was 4.4. Only 14 eyes (8%) were hyperopic before the surgery with a mean SE of +5.5 and SD of 4.8. The difference in the mean of SE between after and before the surgery for myopic eyes was statistically significant (mean difference: 7.8, SD: 5, P < 0.0001). The difference in the mean of SE between post- and pre-operatively was also significant for hyperopic eyes (mean difference: −6.1, SD: 5.2, P = 0.0007). In 32 eyes with keratoconus, the mean SE before surgery was −7.9 with an SD of 4.1. For the keratoconus eyes, the mean difference of SE between after and before surgery was statistically significant as the mean difference in SE was 7.2 with an SD of 4.6 (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION:

The effect of ICL implantation was significant in improving the SE for myopic, hyperopic, and keratoconus eyes.
Presumed uremic optic neuropathy in a patient with Senior–Loken syndrome
Authors: Khan Arif O.
Published: January 2024

A patient who had been diagnosed with infantile retinal dystrophy developed renal failure in his twenties, at which time the diagnosis was revised to Senior–Loken syndrome. He was poorly compliant. At 36 years old, he experienced a sudden drop in visual acuity in the setting of cramping and fatigue and was found to be in uremic crisis. Six months after the event and its treatment, his vision failed to improved. Optic nerve pallor was out of proportion to the retinal dystrophy, and the presumed reason for his new visual loss was uremic optic neuropathy. The patient’s younger sister also had been diagnosed with infantile retinal dystrophy, and metabolic screening confirmed subclinical renal dysfunction that was to be carefully followed going forward. Infantile retinal dystrophy can be associated with later systemic disease. Early detection of such disease can potentially decrease morbidity. Patients with retinal dystrophy can develop new visual loss from causes other than the retinopathy itself.
Retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator-related retinopathy and gene therapy
Authors: Wongchaisuwat Nida , Amato Alessia , Lamborn Andrew E. , Yang Paul , Everett Lesley , Pennesi Mark E.
Published: January 2024

Retinitis pigmentosa GTPase regulator (RPGR)-related retinopathy is a retinal dystrophy inherited in a X-linked recessive manner that typically causes progressive visual loss starting in childhood with severe visual impairment by the fourth decade of life. It manifests as an early onset and severe form of retinitis pigmentosa. There are currently no effective treatments for RPGR-related retinopathy; however, there are multiple clinical trials in progress exploring gene augmentation therapy aimed at slowing down or halting the progression of disease and possibly restoring visual function. This review focuses on the molecular biology, clinical manifestations, and the recent progress of gene therapy clinical trials.
Gene therapy in bestrophinopathies: Insights from preclinical studies in preparation for clinical trials
Authors: Amato Alessia , Wongchaisuwat Nida , Lamborn Andrew , Schmidt Ryan , Everett Lesley , Yang Paul , Pennesi Mark E.
Published: January 2024

The BEST1 gene encodes bestrophin-1, a homopentameric ion channel expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), where it localizes to the basolateral plasma membrane. Pathogenic variants in this gene can cause different autosomal dominant and recessive inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), collectively named “bestrophinopathies.” These disorders share a number of clinical and molecular features that make them an appealing target for gene therapy. Clinically, bestrophinopathies are often slowly progressive with a wide window of opportunity, and the presence of subretinal material (vitelliform deposits and/or fluid) as a hallmark of these conditions provides an easily quantifiable endpoint in view of future clinical trials. From a molecular standpoint, most BEST1 pathogenic variants have been shown to cause either loss of function (LOF) of the protein or a dominant-negative (DN) effect, with a smaller subset causing a toxic gain of function (GOF). Both LOF and DN mutations may be amenable to gene augmentation alone. On the other hand, individuals harboring GOF variants would require a combination of gene silencing and gene augmentation, which has been shown to be effective in RPE cells derived from patients with Best disease. In this article, we review the current knowledge of BEST1-related IRDs and we discuss how their molecular and clinical features are being used to design novel and promising therapeutic strategies.
Visual outcomes and recurrence rate of macular corneal dystrophy following phototherapeutic keratectomy in Saudi Arabia
Authors: AlHilali Sara M. , Jomar Deema E. , Albalawi Eman D.
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the visual outcomes and recurrence rate of patients with macular corneal dystrophy (MCD) who have undergone phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK).

METHODS:

This retrospective, single-centered study enrolled patients from King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital who had undergone PTK for MCD between 2000 and 2020. Pre-, intra-, and post-operative data were collected, and the primary outcome measures included uncorrected visual acuity, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent, central keratometry, keratometric astigmatism, recurrence rate, and necessity of subsequent surgery.

RESULTS:

This study evaluated 42 eyes of 29 patients. BCVA improved from 0.41 (±0.17) preoperatively to 0.30 (±0.16) postoperatively. Sixteen out of 42 eyes (38%) had the recurrence of macular dystrophy deposits within the stroma; the average time from PTK to recurrence was 37 months (range: 5.5–115.4 months). The overall success rate of PTK at 2 years was 44.8%. Eleven eyes (26%) required subsequent surgery following PTK at an average of 43 months postoperatively. Deeper ablation and longer application of mitomycin C (MMC) were both found to be statistically significant factors associated with visual improvement and lower recurrence rate following PTK.

CONCLUSION:

PTK can be considered a treatment modality for younger patients to defer keratoplasty to a later stage. Deeper ablation is associated with improved postoperative visual acuity, and longer application of MMC is associated with lower recurrence rates of MCD.
Extended depth of focus intraocular lens versus a new monofocal intraocular lens: A prospective comparative and interventional study
Authors: Sihmar Yogika , Singh Basant K. , Singh Vinod K. , Kumar Santosh , Chaudhary Aparajita , Saini Sanchita
Published: January 2024

PURPOSE:

To compare the visual outcome findings between a new monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) (Tecnis Eyhance) and extended depth of focus (EDOF) IOL (Appasamy Supraphob Infocus).

METHODS:

This prospective comparative interventional study evaluated 31 patients after implantation of Tecnis Eyhance (15 patients) and Supraphob EDOF IOL (16 patients). The uncorrected and corrected distance and intermediate and near visual acuity were measured at postoperative day 1, 1 week, 4 week, and 3 months. Contrast sensitivity, incidence of halos and glares, and patient satisfaction were assessed at 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

The Tecnis Eyhance (n = 15) and Supraphob EDOF (n = 16) group were comparable with respect to all preoperative parameters including biometry, visual acuity, and cataract status. The average age distribution of participants was 56 ± 6 years. Postoperatively, both groups had similar distance and intermediate vision, but the near vision was significantly better in the EDOF group (P < 0.01) as compared to Tecnis Eyhance at 3 months. The contrast sensitivity and patient satisfaction were similar in both the groups. The incidence of halos and glares was present in the EDOF group, but it was statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION:

The Tecnis Eyhance and Supraphob EDOF both were effective in improving distance and intermediate vision, but the near vision was significantly better in the EDOF group. Both the groups retained good contrast sensitivity and the majority of patients were satisfied.
Study of Methods for Constructing Intelligent Learning Models Supported by Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Pan Lijun
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION: As the essential part of intelligent learning, innovative learning model construction is conducive to improving the quality of intelligent new teaching models, thus leading the deep integration of teaching and artificial intelligence and accelerating the change and development of teaching supported by artificial intelligence.OBJECTIVES: Aiming at the current intelligent teaching evaluation design method, there are problems such as more objectivity, poor precision, and a single method of evaluation indexes.METHODS: his paper proposes an intelligent learning construction method based on cluster analysis and deep learning algorithms. First of all, the intelligent learning model construction process is sorted out by clarifying the idea of clever learning model construction and extracting model elements; then, the intelligent learning model is constructed through a K-means clustering algorithm and deep compression sparse self-encoder; finally, the effectiveness and high efficiency of the proposed method is verified through simulation experiment analysis.RESULTS: Solved the problem that the intelligent learning model construction method is not objective enough, has poor accuracy and is not efficient enough.CONCLUSION: The results show that the proposed method improves the model’s accuracy.
Solvability of the Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation problem
Authors: Buslaev Viktor Ivanovich
Published: January 2024

A solvability theorem is proved for the Nevanlinna-Pick interpolation problem. Its extreme cases are Carathéodory's and Sсhur's criteria on the one hand (when all interpolation points coincide) and the Krein-Rekhtman theorem on the other (when the interpolation points are pairwise distinct).
Bibliography: 19 titles.
Effect of supply chain public relations management practices on business performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Calabar – Nigeria
Authors: Mpuon Joseph Akam , Anna Eko Hodo , Akaninyene Simpson Emen , Akam Happiness Sunday
Published: January 2024

The study examined the effect of supply chain public relations management practices on business performance of small and medium scale enterprises in Calabar, Cross River State. In the course of the study four hypotheses where formulated, data were collected from management staff of small and medium scale enterprises in Cross River State using structured questionnaire. The data were analysed utilizing inferential and descriptive statistics. Findings from the study revealed that the dimensions of Supply chain public relations management practices have a favourable and positive effect on small and medium scale enterprises in Calabar, Nigeria. On the basis of the findings, it was concluded that if supply chain public relations management practices activities are well implemented, there would be an improvement in business performance of small and medium scale enterprises. We recommended that supply chain public relations managers should develop strategies that will enhance their relationships with other stakeholders to improve on their business performance.
Analysis of the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the population of the Mokambo chiefdom on the thermal waters of Kaswa/Mahagi (Ituri, D.R. Congo)
Authors: Budju Lotsima Richard , Ibebeke Bomangwa Yvonne , Tangou Tabou Thierry , Dhetchuvi Matchu Jean-Baptiste , Sikulisimwa Pole CÃ©line
Published: January 2024

Since ancestral times, farmers have used the thermal waters of Kaswa/Mahagi for hygienic and sanitary practices. The present study is aimed at evaluating the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the indigenous people with regards to these waters. It was carried out from 15th January to 12th April 2022 and focused on a sample of 323 adult people obtained using the Schwartz formula. The descriptive study shows that almost all of the farmers knew the location of the thermal springs had an indigenous name which meant their hyperthermia or their therapeutic virtue. 68.89% of respondents suggested volcanic or geothermal origin of the heat of these waters, the information being transmitted mainly from parents to members of their families. The practices highlighted are frequenting thermal waters for curiosity, natural hot baths, for the relief of muscular fatigue and dermatoses including wounds and scabies according to 41.13% and 39.18% of respondents respectively. The attitude highlighted is the belief in divine and ancestral power transmitted through these waters accompanied by rituals at the hot springs. Certain knowledge, attitudes and practices were dependent on the sex, age and occupation of users. These results constitute essential basic information for future multidisciplinary research with a view to enlightening the population.
Effects of spirituality and religious attendance on the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of inmates: a case study of Harare central prison, in Zimbabwe
Authors: John Munezvenyu Tinashe , Chisango Tadios , Linjesa Latih , Chingozho Johnson , Ngwenya Bekithemba
Published: January 2024

The purpose of the study was to assess the prevalence of mental health problems at Harare Central Prison, Zimbabwe, in addition to assessing the prisoners’ levels of religiosity and spirituality, and furthermore ascertain how these affect their mental health and psychosocial wellbeing. This paper used a qualitative research design, whilst the target population constituted the inmates at Harare Central Prison with diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health conditions. Purposeful sampling was used, whilst the research instrument employed was structured interviews. Data were presented in narrative form and analyzed using thematic analysis. The major findings of this study were that religion and spirituality had beneficial effects on the mental health and psychosocial wellbeing of inmates, including working as a protective factor. It was concluded that all the various stakeholders concerned should work on promoting the functional and beneficial aspects of religion and spirituality at the prison.
Effects of combined mineral and sewage sludge fertilization on soil properties and growth of two Zea mays (L.) varieties in Western Highlands of Cameroon
Authors: Tsimi Edzigui Marcelle Léonce , Lekeufack Martin , Fotsa Tiwa Justine Mireille , Fowoung Diane , Manekeu Tanetsa Amandine Elodie , Tsetagho Gabriel Nicodème , Chimi Djiomou Adrienne , Fonkou Théophile
Published: January 2024

This study aimed at evaluating the effects of combined application of dewatered sewage sludge (SS) and mineral fertilizer on the chemical properties of the soil and growth of Zea mays. Six treatments: T0, negative control; T1, positive control of 120 kg N/ha; T2, 2 t/ha sewage sludge (SS) + 60 kgN/ha; T3, 4 t/ha SS + 60 kgN/ha; T4, 8t / ha SS+ 60 kgN/ha and T5, 8 t/ha SS were applied in completely randomized block experimental design. The following parameters: height of plants, diameter of stem, number of healthy leaves, leaves area index, root and shoot biomasses were measured on plants at 30, 44 and 58 days after sowing. For the soil parameters, electrical conductivity (EC), redox and hydrogen potentials were measured at the same frequency. The results showed that the height, the stem diameter, the number of leaves, the leaves area index and the biomass of Zea mays increased in response to soil supplementation with sewage sludge combined with mineral fertilizers. The treatment that best stimulated the growth of maize was T4 (8t/ha SS+ 60 kgN/ha). The soil chemical properties were modified by sewage sludge application. In general, pH and conductivity decrease with sludge application, while, redox potential increased. This shows that combined sewage sludge to NPK (20 10 10) leads to changes in chemical parameters of the soil and thus, influencing the nutrients uptake by plants to improve their growth.