bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of V-Y Quadricepsplasty for the Management of Genu Recurvatum Deformity in Congenital Dislocation Knee
Authors: Sahoo Pabitra Kumar , Deb Sourav , Singh Deepak Kumar , Parida Pramod Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background:

Congenital dislocation knee (CDK) is a rare congenital anomaly clinically presented with genu recurvatum deformity. In early reported cases, conservative management with manipulation and serial casting once a week for up to 4 weeks can be successful. Surgical methods of deformity correction include percutaneous quadriceps recession, Z-plasty, V-Y quadricepsplasty (VYQ), and Achilles tendon reconstruction for the reconstruction of the quadriceps tendon. Very few studies are reported in Indian literature describing the outcomes of surgical intervention in such an uncommon congenital deformity. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of VYQ in CDK.

Materials and Methods:

Ten children with CDK with a mean age of 44.4 months, who met the inclusion criteria, were included in the study. All the children had undergone VYQ as described by Curtis and Fisher and subsequently modified by Tercier and Shah. Outcome measures such as active and passive knee range of motion, quadriceps power, and modified knee functional scoring system were assessed at the final follow-up.

Results:

Most of the children in the current study achieved knee flexion of >90° with an average flexion of 90.5° + 21.73 (standard deviation), and 50% of them achieved quadriceps power Grade 4 or more (median 3.5). Modified knee function score was good in 60% of cases, fair in 20%, and excellent function in 10% of cases.

Conclusion:

Adequate knee flexion without quadriceps weakness and good knee function can be achieved by VYQ in CDK. This is a simple surgical procedure that can be easily learned with a flat learning curve.
Telerehabilitation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Western India: A 3-month Follow-up Study
Authors: Abins T. K. , Gaur Ravi , Gonnade Nitesh Manohar , Sheenam Nagma , Kolakkanni Chinchu , Adharshna T. K. , Sangeeth A. P.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

India grapples with a mounting chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) crisis driven by pervasive air pollution, especially from biomass burning. New Delhi’s classification as the capital with the worst pollution, with 35 other Indian cities in the global top 50, underscores the severity. COPD, the third-leading cause of global mortality, claimed 3.23 million lives in 2019, with a projected surge due to prevalent smoking and ongoing pollution. Domestically, COPD accounts for 9.5% of all deaths. Emphasizing the urgency of Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 to reduce mortality from non-communicable diseases, including chronic respiratory diseases, cost-effective pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), particularly telerehabilitation, emerges as a promising avenue for comprehensive COPD management in this challenging landscape.

Methods:

Patients with COPD (gold stages 1–3) confirmed by pulmonary function tests were enrolled. Functional exercise capacity, dyspnoea levels and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were assessed using the 6-min walk test (6MWD), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnoea scale and SGRQ-C questionnaire, respectively. Participants received home-based PR and attended one 2-h PR session 3 days a week for 12 weeks. Follow-up was conducted telephonically monthly, and a final assessment was done at the end of the 3rd month.

Results:

Of the 88 initially recruited patients, 26 were lost to follow-up, leaving 62 who completed the 3-month programme. Significant improvements were observed in exercise tolerance (6-min walk test [6MWD]), with mean values increasing from 383.00 ± 71.22 to 441.3 ± 87.3 (P < 0.001). HRQoL, assessed by SGRQ-C, showed an overall improvement, with statistically significant reductions in total scores (42.15 ± 3.52–39.54 ± 3.41, P < 0.001) and in each domain (symptom, impact and activity).

Conclusion:

The study affirms telerehabilitation’s efficacy in enhancing exercise capacity and improving the quality of life for COPD patients, advocating its integration, particularly in regions with limited access to conventional rehabilitation programmes.
Psychological autopsy study of suicides in farmers: Study from Kerala
Authors: Suresh Kumar Pattath Narayanan , Suresh Rohith
Published: August 2024

Background:

Though agricultural farming is considered a peaceful and healthy industry it has a high rate of mortality especially suicide. In India, 11.2% of suicides are reported in the farming sector.

Aim:

To identify the role of psychosocial factors leading to farmer’s suicide in a farmer’s dominant district of Kerala.

Material and Method:

One hundred and sixty-six successive suicides in Wayanad district and age, sex, marital status, and financial status matched normal controls residing in the same locality were evaluated and compared on psycho-social demographic variables, life events, and details of suicide.

Results:

Significantly a greater number of victims were living separately, living in rented homes, had no own land for cultivation, migrated, had marital discord, and strained relationships with relatives. They had loans from private financial enterprises and single money persons, had past attempts, a family history of alcoholism, and highly stressful life events. The most frequent psychiatric diagnosis was alcohol dependence/abuse followed by depression. The majority committed suicide by hanging followed by insecticide poisoning. Intention to commit suicide was expressed by 38.5% and 30.2% were intoxicated at the time of attempt. The venue for the attempt was the own house in 75.7% of cases.

Conclusion:

This study suggests the following remedial measures to prevent farmers’ suicides. Expert advice to manage financial constraints like availing loans, crop insurance, etc. Guidance from the agricultural department for cost-effective cultivation. Early identification and treatment of psychiatric disorders.
Building psychological resilience among families of service personnel
Authors: Srivastava Kalpana , Chatterjee Kaushik , Chauhan Vinay S. , Panda Srikrishna P. , Bhat Pookala S.
Published: August 2024

Psychological resilience means adapting positively to adversity. This is armed forces’ very context and function—encountering, enduring, and overcoming challenging situations through resilience. Scientific study of psychological resilience has moved from individual, to process, onward to developmental trajectories, and to neuro-biological underpinnings. Person-focused and environment-focused variables help us understand the resilient individual. Family resilience has been scarcely studied. The impact of frequent relocations, deployments, uncertainty, stress, injuries, illness, and death on spouses and children of service personnel manifests in varied ways, generating varied concerns and outcomes. Armed Forces across the world have addressed these concerns over the years. Apart from traditional approaches, some recent initiatives have been made in the Indian context. Effective psychological resilience interventions will have to be feasible, culturally acceptable, and possibly supported by digital technology to have a broad impact on families and soldiers.
Translation and validation of the hindi version of the HEXACO personality inventory-revised
Authors: Maggu Gaurav , Bairwa Khushboo , Gaur Vikas , Ali Tahoora , Kelkar Parisha , Chaudhury Suprakash
Published: August 2024

Background:

Recent lexical research in different languages has revealed that there are six personality dimensions instead of the previously proposed five dimensions. To address this issue, the HEXACO Personality Inventory-Revised (HEXACO PI-R), a self-rating scale to assess personality characteristics, was constructed. However, researchers in India faced a language barrier because it was only available in English.

Aim:

To evaluate the validity and reliability of the Hindi translation of the HEXACO PI-R.

Materials and Methods:

We followed WHO guidelines for the translation and adaptation of instruments. In forward translation, the scale was translated to Hindi independently by two independent bi-lingual authors. Both versions were reviewed, and a common Hindi version was made. Then, in the second step, an expert panel was formed comprising psychologists, authors, and senior psychiatrists. All the shortcomings were addressed, which resulted in a final Hindi version of the scale. Subsequently, a Hindi Professor, who had no background knowledge of the scale, was consulted to check the Grammar and meaning of the scale. Finally, an independent English Professor with no background knowledge of this scale was consulted to translate the Hindi version to English back. A small pilot study was conducted and a resultant Hindi version of the self-report HEXACO was applied to 10 patients to see the shortcomings, which resulted in the final Hindi version. By convenience sampling 300 volunteers, conversant in both the English and Hindi languages were included. The subjects were initially administered alternately the original English version or the Hindi version of the scale. Then after a gap of 14 days, those who initially received the English version filled up the Hindi translation, while those who received the Hindi version initially filled up the English version of the scale.

Results:

The scores on the original English scale and the Hindi versions were significantly positively correlated (Spearman’s rho 0.900; P < 0.001). The translated scale showed a high degree of internal consistency and acceptable reliability. An exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation yielded 6 factors, which were found to have a further 24 facets. The fitness of the model for the overall scale and its sub-factors was found to be acceptable. Results of the Rasch analysis showed the scale had good infit and outfit values. The person’s reliability was good. The Wright map showed a good distribution of the items.

Conclusion:

The Hindi translation of the HEXACO PI-R is a valid and reliable tool to gauge the personality dimensions of the Hindi-speaking population of India.
Translational research in psychiatry
Authors: Chauhan Vinay Singh , Sharma Markanday
Published: August 2024

Translational research in psychiatry bridges the gap between basic scientific discoveries and clinical applications, aiming to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. By elucidating the neurobiological mechanisms underlying psychiatric disorders through neuroimaging, genetics, and animal models, researchers can identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for personalized interventions. This brief communication provides an overview of the importance, approaches, and a few examples of translation psychiatry research and challenges. Moving forward, collaboration between researchers, clinicians, industry partners, and regulatory agencies is essential to address the unmet needs of individuals affected by mental illness and to realize the full potential of translational psychiatry.
Knowledge, behavior, and effect of health messaging during the first Indian lockdown for COVID-19
Authors: Sahu Sushree , Bhatia Triptish , Beniwal Ram Pratap , Sreedaran Priya , Jones Jacquelynn , Wood Joel , Hawk Mary , Yadav Ashok , Nimgaonkar Vishwajit L. , Deshpande Smita N.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was declared a global pandemic in March 2020, affecting certain health measures. Precautionary hygiene measures of hand washing, mask-wearing, and social distancing were advocated and disseminated to the public through different government machinery.

Aim:

The current study explored if government messaging had an impact on the knowledge of COVID-19 and the necessary precautionary behaviors in three groups: persons with past suicide attempts (PSA), persons with schizophrenia (SZ), and the general population during the first lockdown (March to May 2020).

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional 22-item questionnaire was designed to assess “precautionary knowledge,” “precautionary behaviors,” “living circumstances,” and “tobacco and alcohol consumption” before and during the first Indian lockdown. PSA and SZ were contacted telephonically, while for the general population, the survey was adapted into Google Forms and circulated as a WhatsApp link. Inclusion criteria were both genders, 18-65 years, and Indians residing in India.

Results:

No differences among PSA, SZ, and the general population were reported in the knowledge for the lockdown and behavior for “hand washing,” “mask-wearing,” and “frequency of going outdoors.” Almost 15% of the general population moved back home during the lockdown. A significantly higher frequency of alcohol consumption was reported by the general population both before and during the lockdown compared with PSA and SZ.

Conclusion:

Appropriate COVID-19 knowledge and behavior were seen in PSA, SZ, and the general population. Thus, government-mandated behaviors for COVID-19 were adhered to by all three groups. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of the government’s health messaging among people with severe mental illnesses in times of a novel worldwide health crisis.
What do the blind feel? Psychological distress and satisfaction with life of blind persons: A community-based study
Authors: Gogate Parikshit , Phadke Supriya , Samudra Madhura , Chaudhury Suprakash , Gogate Siddharth , Shitole Apoorva , Magdum Renu , Radhakrishnan O.K.
Published: August 2024

Background:

Progressive loss of visual acuteness is known to be associated with anxiety, insecurity, loss of independence, and altered social functioning, which may lead to low mood and subsequently depression. Emotionally adjusting to vision loss can dramatically change one’s independence. Reduced workplace productivity in adults with visual impairment is associated with lower rates of workforce participation and increased rates of anxiety and depression. Most studies for psychological comorbidities in the legally blind population are conducted in individuals who present to the psychiatry or psychology department/clinics or to facilities for blindness certification. Due to the paucity of community-based data in the Indian scenario, the current study was undertaken.

Aim:

To evaluate the psychological distress and satisfaction with life of people who were diagnosed as blind in the community.

Materials and Methods:

The sample was based on the identification of blind persons in a door-to-door screening for eye and vision problems in 44535 individuals conducted in 2015–16 in the middle to lower socioeconomic populations in the suburban area of Yerawada, Maharashtra. Those who were suspected of having low vision underwent a detailed clinical examination including visual acuity estimation, portable slit lamp examination, I-Kare tonometry, and fundoscopy, conducted by an ophthalmologist to assess and verify the lack of vision. Subsequently, the General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were also applied upon revisiting the participants in 2020–2021.

Results:

The majority of participants were middle-aged or elderly and no significant gender variation was noted in terms of blindness. Maximum psychological disability was seen after 6 to 15 years after the onset of blindness. More than 80% of the patients with complete blindness had some psychiatric comorbidity or distress and more than half reported that their daily activities were affected due to their diagnosis. Blind persons had significantly higher scores on the GHQ-12 and significantly lower scores on SWLS. Complete blindness was positively correlated with GHQ-12 scores and negatively correlated with SWLS scores and the age of the subject.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that psychological distress and low levels of satisfaction with life are common among the severely visually impaired and blind. There is a dire need to improve access to rehabilitation services and psychological support for the blind and their caregivers.
Depression anxiety stress and fear of COVID-19 among adolescent students and its relationship with possible predictors
Authors: Garg Anusha S. , Tiwari Deepak S. , Shah Viral R. , Patel Niraj P.
Published: August 2024

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic prolonged lockdowns, school closures requiring online education support, and uncertainty about examinations caused stress in students.

Aim:

To estimate the levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and fear of COVID-19 in adolescent students of Jamnagar and its relationship with possible predictors.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study using a proportionate probability sampling method during the third wave of COVID-19 of 4423 adolescent students of Jamnagar, Gujarat. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) measured the main construct. T-tests for two independent samples and multiple linear regression analysis were used to assess the relationship.

Results:

Among the adolescent students, 14.81% had moderate fear, while severe fear was found in 3.37%. Moderate or severe depression was observed in 1.31% and 0.16% of students, respectively; severe and extremely severe anxiety was present in 0.65% and 0.11% of students; and stress was found to be moderate in 0.23%. Depression was associated with education, anxiety with education, gender, and a history of COVID-19 in the family and stress with a history of COVID-19 infection in the family and fear of COVID-19 with gender, standard of class, geographical area, socioeconomic class, and father’s education.

Conclusion:

In our study, the students having a higher fear of COVID-19 were found to have higher depression, anxiety, and stress. The factors associated with a lower level of psychological impact can be used to formulate the interventions needed for the betterment of adolescent mental health.
Depression, anxiety, stress and insomnia among foreign medical graduates appearing for foreign medical graduate’s examination in India: A cross sectional study
Authors: Pillarisetti Pragnya , Dikkala Vishnu Priya , Murthy P. S. , Chaudhury Suprakash
Published: August 2024

Background:

As a prerequisite to start a medical practice in India, Foreign Medical graduates on returning have to sit for FMGE (Foreign Medical Graduate’s Exam), organized by NBE. The time and effort involved by the students with adjustments to various changes in educational and examination pattern may manifest as psychiatric morbidities while awaiting a positive outcome.

Aim:

To evaluate depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia in Foreign Medical Graduate students and to understand the various factors associated with them.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 80 MBBS students appearing for FMGE were enrolled during the period of April 2023 to May 2023, after obtaining their written consent on the Google form to participate in this study. The participants answered a semi-structured proforma consisting of information about sociodemographic data, DASS-21 (depression, anxiety, and stress severity scale), ISI scale (insomnia severity index), and RSES (Rosenberg self-esteem scale).

Results:

In this study, 76.2%, 80%, 72.5%, and 78.8% of students were found to be suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia, respectively. A significant statistical correlation was found between anxiety and the students appearing for July FMGE 2023. Stress and depression were associated with insecurities/comparisons faced by the participants due to peers clearing the examination before them. Low self-esteem was associated with 3 or more failed attempts for FMGE and the presence of other stressors preceding/concurrent while preparing for FMGE. Clinical insomnia was found to be statistically significant with depression, anxiety as well as stress in this study. Multiple regression analysis showed that stress and anxiety predicted depression while the young age of the student, low socioeconomic status, low self-esteem, stress, and depression predicted anxiety. Stress was found to be associated with anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Insomnia was corelated with having extension in the UG course and stress while low self-esteem was corelated with students who were attempting for the July 2023 examination and anxiety.

Conclusion:

The significantly high proportion of psychiatric morbidities among Foreign Medical Graduates is suggestive of the need for the necessary psychological aid and counseling as these foreign medical graduates can be viewed as an opportunity to correct India’s physician shortage.
The Genetic Blueprint of Cardiovascular Therapy: Pharmacogenomics for Improved Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Andhi Nikhilesh , Darawadi Bhuvana
Published: August 2024

Globally, cardio vascular diseases (CVD) remain the primary cause of morbidity and mortality. Pharmacogenomics (PGxs) has profoundly changed how various drug classes are managed in CVDs. For example, genetic polymorphisms in genes such as SLCO1B1 impact how a person responds to statins such as rosuvastatin and atorvastatin, where as the interindividual variability in the reaction to statins (Fluvastatin)used in lipid-lowering therapy can be partly explained by genetic variations in genes encoding drug-metabolizing enzymes such cytochrome P450 and transporters like OATP1B1. Similarly, in antiplatelet therapy, polymorphisms in CYP2C19 affect clopidogrel metabolism, influencing its efficacy in preventing thrombotic events. Genes such as CYP2C9 and VKORC1 are crucial for the metabolism and response to acenocoumarol and warfarin during anticoagulant therapy and monitoring bleeding risk. Genetic variations in CYP2D6 affect the metabolism and effectiveness of propafenone and metoprolol. Understanding the PGx presumptions of these cardiovascular drugs may help develop personalized treatment strategies that lower the possibility of adverse drug reactions, obtain desired therapeutic outcomes, and improve patient compliance and safety with respect to each patient’s unique genetic makeup.
Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy – A Diagnosis Often Missed
Authors: Gudaghe Rahul , Goswami Sourabh , Deora Surender
Published: August 2024

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy in the absence of abnormal cardiac loading conditions. Apical HCM (AHCM) is a type of HCM which classically involves the apex of the left ventricle. AHCM patients may present with chest pain, palpitations, dyspnea, syncope, atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, embolic events, ventricular fibrillation, or congestive heart failure. Often, based on chest pain and an abnormal electrocardiogram, these patients are treated as acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Here, we describe a patient who was previously treated with ACS but was ultimately diagnosed with AHCM. These patients differ from those of classic HCM in some respects and want attention.
A Correlation Study of Anthropometric Measurements and Body Compositions with Thyroid Hormones in Hypothyroidism Patients
Authors: Kumar Anupam , Singh Santosh Kumar , Pushkar Kumar , Arora Rahil , Singh Vani , Sehgal Parrina , Khullar Srishti
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Hypothyroidism is often associated with weight gain. In this study, we assessed the correlation of anthropometric measurements and body compositions such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), total fat, visceral fat, and triceps fold with different components of the thyroid profile.

Methods:

All the cases of clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism were evaluated. The anthropometric measurements were taken using skin calipers and the body composition was assessed using a Dexa scan. The blood samples were collected for the estimation of thyroid hormone levels. A statistical correlation was drawn between the various anthropometric measures and body composition with different components of thyroid profile.

Results:

The gender-wise comparison study revealed that BMI, total fat %, and visceral fat % were significantly higher in the female gender. Total fat and visceral fat have a direct significant association with BMI (P > 0.005). An increase in age is associated with a rise in the values of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) (P > 0.05). A positive correlation between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and BMI (r = 0.294), total fat % (0.026), visceral fat % (r = 0.216), and triceps fold measurement (0.004). Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between TSH levels and WC (r = −0.178). There was a negative correlation observed between T4 levels and BMI (r = −0.327), visceral fat percentage (r = −0.152), and triceps fold measurements (r = −0.076). However, a positive correlation was found between T4 levels and WC (r = 0.174) and total fat percentage (r = 0.090). A negative correlation was observed between T3 levels and BMI (r = −0.108), while a positive correlation was observed between T3 levels and all other variables.

Conclusion:

Age and BMI, but not gender, were found to be significantly associated with thyroid profile. Among anthropometric measurements, the total fat percentage demonstrated a positive correlation with all thyroid hormones, suggesting that the total fat percentage may be a more accurate predictor of thyroid hormone levels than other anthropometric variables alone.
Clinicopathological Factors Associated with Lymph Node Metastasis in Oral Cavity Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Joshi Kamal Deep , Singh Anubhav , Singh Nitu , Bhardwaj Abhinav , Choudhury Abhimannyu , Saxena Shilpi , Singh Dharamendra Kumar
Published: August 2024

Background:

Metastasis to regional cervical lymph nodes is an important prognostic factor for oral-cavity squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC). However, it is difficult to predict nodal metastasis in OSCC. The current study was done with an aim to find the association of various clinicopathological factors to the presence of cervical lymph node metastasis in OSCC.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of hospital records from January 2020 to June 2023 was conducted in a tertiary care center. The records of 65 patients were included as per the inclusion criteria. The data were divided into two groups based on the presence or absence of neck nodal metastasis. Various factors such as tumor size, volume, depth of invasion (DOI), lymphovascular invasion, and perineural invasion were statistically compared between the study groups.

Results:

The oral tongue was the most common subsite (25, 38.5%), followed by buccal mucosa (18, 27.7%). The mean DOI in the group with cervical lymph node metastasis was 9.83 ± 4.83 mm, and it was significantly higher than the group without cervical lymph node metastasis (6.15 ± 4.20 mm, P = 0.004).

Conclusion:

DOI assessment is one of the most important preoperative assessments in the clinicoradiological assessment of OSCC cases. Further, it is recommended that in cases with DOI >5 mm, the intraoperative frozen section on the nodes dissected in elective neck dissection is done for further determination of the extent of neck dissection.
The Prevalence of Systemic Diseases and Its Association with Periodontal Disease among Patients Referred to a Government Periodontal Specialist Clinic in Melaka, Malaysia
Authors: Carmen Koh , Hong Arlene Khaw Bee
Published: August 2024

Aim:

The aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of systemic diseases among patients referred to a newly established government periodontal specialist clinic and to analyze the association between the severity (staging) and the rate of progression (grading) of periodontitis with the presence of these systemic diseases.

Materials and Methods:

Records of all new patients within the first 5 years of the clinic’s operation were reviewed, and their periodontitis status was classified according to the 2017 World Workshop Classification system. The association between the severity of periodontitis and the presence of systemic diseases was analyzed using the Chi-square test, whereas Fisher’s exact test was used to determine the association between the rate of progression and the presence of systemic diseases.

Results:

A total of 489 dental records were reviewed. We found that 40.1% of our patients suffered from systemic diseases. The two most common systemic diseases were cardiovascular disease (CVD) (11.4%) and diabetes mellitus (9.4%). No significant association was found between the severity of periodontitis and the presence of systemic diseases (P = 0.376). However, we found a significant association between the rate of progression of periodontitis and systemic diseases (P = 0.004). There was also a significant association between the rate of progression of periodontitis and CVDs (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

The rate of progression of periodontitis is significantly associated with the presence of systemic diseases and CVDs. This highlights that periodontitis is not a stand-alone disease. Instead, it reaches across a spectrum of other noncommunicable diseases. The collaboration between medical and dental practitioners can further improve the management of this group of patients.
An unusual presentation of orbital rhabdomyosarcoma: A case report
Authors: Abdulsalam Halima O. , Dominic Chinda , Abubakar Muhammad L. , Jimoh Abdullahi O. , Aliyu Halima O. , Umar Shehu S.
Published: August 2024

Orbital rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the commonest orbital cancer in children. Capillary hemangioma (CH) is the commonest benign periorbital tumor in childhood. We present an unusual case of orbital RMS, which was initially diagnosed as an orbital CH. An 8-year-old girl presented with a right eye protrusion of 3 years’ duration. The protrusion increased with the Valsalva maneuver. There was no history of headache, remarkable weight loss, or swelling of any other parts of the body. A diagnosis of orbital hemangioma was made, and she was commenced on propranolol with some improvement, but she defaulted. When she was represented 4 years later, there was a huge mass surrounding the right eye, with blindness and intermittent bleeding. Orbital computed tomographic angiography revealed features of a very vascular mass with bony expansion of all the orbital walls. She underwent modified exenteration, and her histology revealed Alveolar RMS. These reports highlight an unusual presentation of orbital RMS.
Outcome of Glaucoma Management in Sturge-Weber Syndrome: Case Series
Authors: Ugalahi Mary Ogbenyi , Onebunne Ezinne Obioma , Olayiwola Olorunyomi Toyin , Urom Chukwunonso Ota , Olusanya Bolutife Ayokunnu , Baiyeroju Aderonke Mojisola
Published: August 2024

Objective: To report the clinical findings and outcome of treatment for developmental glaucoma from Sturge-Weber syndrome in four consecutive children managed at a child eye health tertiary facility in Ibadan, Nigeria. Methods: A retrospective case series of four children with Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) and developmental glaucoma who underwent surgical treatment for glaucoma over a 3-year period. Information on patients’ sociodemographic data, clinical features, and management are described. Results: Four male children, aged between 7 weeks and 11 years, with unilateral developmental glaucoma and varying extent of port-wine stain were included in the study. The primary surgery in three patients was trabeculectomy, while the fourth patient received a glaucoma drainage device. Shallow anterior chamber, choroidal effusion, and cataract were complications of glaucoma surgery observed. Secondary surgeries performed include anterior chamber reformation, suturing of leaking peritubular scleral channel, sclerotomy and fluid drainage, bleb needling, cataract surgery, and scleral buckle surgery. At the 1-year follow-up visit, one eye had complete success, one eye had qualified success, while the other two had treatment failure. Conclusion: The outcome of management of glaucoma associated with Sturge-Weber syndrome is modest. Though rare, SWS can cause significant ocular and systemic morbidity. Complications of therapy may be encountered, and multiple surgical interventions may be required for optimal management.
Chronic myeloid leukemia presenting with disc edema: A case report
Authors: Pedro-Egbe Chinyere N. , Dibia Ogechi Mirabel , Okorie Eriti James , Ayah Mekedibe Doupere , Lasisi-Salau Shafiat Teniola
Published: August 2024

The aim is to report a case of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in a 20-year-old female who initially presented with bilateral optic disc edema and headaches, and to raise awareness of uncommon causes of disc edema that could potentially be life-threatening. The patient first presented in June 2022 with blurry vision in the left eye, headache, and neck pain of 6 months duration. Initial examination revealed a young woman in no acute distress, with a blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg and a body mass index of 26.98. Her pinhole visual acuity was 6/9 in both eyes, extraocular motility was full bilaterally, and both pupils were briskly reactive. However, she had bilateral optic disc edema. Both brain and orbital magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed normal findings. Serological tests for syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus were negative. Based on these and the clinical features, an initial diagnosis of idiopathic intracranial hypertension was made, and the patient was started on acetazolamide tablets. She was followed up for approximately 1 year without resolution of symptoms. At a follow-up visit in December 2023, she was found to have developed dilated tortuous vessels with discrete retinal lesions. A peripheral blood film result showed that the patient had CML. In conclusion, a high index of suspicion should be entertained when managing a patient with unexplained bilateral disc swelling with normal brain MRI study. A complete blood workup, including a peripheral blood film, should be included as a part of the routine investigation of these patients so that diagnosis and treatment could be instituted early.
Strongly nonfinitely based monoids
Authors: Gusev Sergey V. , Sapir Olga B. , Volkov Mikhail V.
Published: August 2024

We show that the

42

-element monoid of all partial order preserving and extensive injections on the

4

-element chain is not contained in any variety generated by a finitely based finite semigroup.
Efficacy of Intensified Hygiene Measures with or without the Addition of Doxycycline in the Management of Filarial Lymphedema: A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in Tanzania
Authors: Ngenya Abdallah , Klarmann-Schulz Ute , John Winfrida , Korir Patricia Jebett , Kamugisha Mathias , Nadal Jennifer , Moshi Dennis , Ricchiuto Arcangelo , Oriyo Ndekya , Sullivan Sarah Mary , Laizer Ruth , Horton John , Demitrius Max , Feichtner Anja , Marandu Thomas F. , Mgaya Yusuph , Kellings Angelika , Kroidl Inge , Ogondiek John , Kuehlwein Janina M. , Masagati Leonard , Mackenzie Charles , Mosoba Maureen , Horn Sacha , Kagya Kheri , Wanji Samuel , Mandara Wilfred , Debrah Linda Batsa , Ottesen Eric A. , Debrah Alexander Yaw , Mwingira Upendo , Hoerauf Achim , Kalinga Akili
Published: August 2024

Lymphedema, hydrocele, and acute adenolymphangitis (ADL) are chronically disabling consequences in patients with lymphatic filariasis (LF). Provision of morbidity management and disability prevention and concurrent mass drug administration of anthelmintics are two pillars for elimination of LF. This study assessed the impact of strict hygiene protocols with or without doxycycline on the progression of filarial lymphedema. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted in two regions in Tanzania. We enrolled 362 participants with lymphedema stages 1–3 assigned into three treatment groups of doxycycline 200 mg once daily, doxycycline 100 mg once daily, or matching placebo for 42 days in addition to hygiene measures. The participants were followed every 2 months for 2 years. Twenty-four months after treatment onset, 17.7% of participants displayed improved limb conditions, including 15/104 (14.4%) in the doxycycline 200 mg group, 16/105 (15.2%) in the doxycycline 100 mg group, and 25/107 (23.4%) in the placebo group. During the first 6 months after treatment, the number of participants experiencing an ADL attack was significantly lower in the doxycycline groups than in the placebo group. The study also found that hygiene was one of the factors associated with preventing the occurrence of acute attacks over the whole study period. Doxycycline 100 mg was a significant factor for the halt of progression (odds ratio: 0.53, P = 0.0239) when both legs if affected at baseline were considered. These findings emphasize the importance of practicing hygiene in reducing the occurrence of ADL attacks and the benefits of doxycycline with regards to acute attacks and halt of progression.
Semantic change and word formation during Covid-19 in the Philippines
Authors: Un Aida Verga Villanueva , Mangompit Rowanne Marie , Licen Christian Ray , Mariñas Allan
Published: August 2024

This study explored the semantic change and word formation of the English language terms used during the Covid-19 pandemic in the Philippines. There were 50 words selected from the memorandum and executive orders of the national and local government units and those from news reports posted online on social media (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram). These words were analyzed using the components of the neologism framework proposed by Krishnamurthy (2010) on the word formation, borrowing, and lexical deviation and that of Crowley and Bowern (2010) for semantic change. The results of the study revealed four types of semantic change (i.e., widening, narrowing, semantic shift, and bifurcation), and the newly discovered words were categorized into compounding, acronym, and conversion.
This study provides implications that in times of crisis (such as the Covid-19 pandemic), Filipinos tend to create and recreate words within a context easily understood by the community to establish clear communication.
Socio-economic status of small-scale fisheries in central Philippines
Authors: Atillo Guilbert Nicanor Abiera
Published: August 2024

This study aims to investigate the socio-economic aspects of small-scale fishers in Barangay Bonawon, Siaton, Negros Oriental, Central Philippines, utilizing a descriptive survey method. The research focuses on assessing the practices, challenges, and income of small-scale fishers registered under FishR, a DA-BFAR Juan Magsasaka registry, and beneficiaries of the TARGET, SAAD projects, and DA-BFAR livelihood assistance initiatives. In addition, the lack of data hampers the understanding of small-scale fisheries' socio-economic status and activities, prompting the researcher to pursue this study. After administering the survey questionnaire, appropriate statistical tools were employed for data analysis. Results reveal the prevalent use of traditional fishing methods, such as “paanod” (drifting gill net), hook and lines, and “ali” (barricade gill net), due to their ease of construction, use, operation, and cost-effectiveness. Their income levels vary due to uncertainties and challenges, such as declining fish resources, climate change, lack of education and facilities, weak law enforcement, and fluctuating market demand. The study's findings inspire policymakers, NGOs, and government agencies to implement a comprehensive approach addressing issues through education, alternative livelihood development, improved fishing infrastructure, strengthened law enforcement, and sustainable fisheries management practices. This approach aims to ensure the resilience and sustainability of small-scale fisheries, promoting the well-being of communities and marine ecosystems.
60 ANOS DA SACROSANCTUM CONCILIUM E A CONTRIBUIÇÃO DO ARTISTA SACRO PÓS-CONCILIAR, DOM RUBERVAL MONTEIRO DA SILVA
Authors: Costa Fernanda Oliveira , Fernandes Marcio Luiz
Published: August 2024

Os sessenta anos da promulgação da constituição sobre a liturgia, a Sacrosanctum Concilium, representa um marco importante para a Igreja católica em todo o mundo. Entre diversas reflexões referentes a aspectos litúrgicos está o tema da arte sacra. No Brasil, as iniciativas fomentadas pelo movimento litúrgico desde o início do século XX proporcionaram vivências centradas no mistério pascal de Cristo e na participação ativa dos fiéis, que depois encontraram ressonância e confirmação no documento conciliar sobre a liturgia. Somente no final da década de 1970 e início de 1980 a renovação litúrgica começou a aparecer na arte presente nas igrejas brasileiras, graças a atuação de artistas pós-conciliares como Claudio Pastro e Dom Ruberval Monteiro da Silva, OSB, que buscaram referências da arte primitiva cristã para a composição iconográfica, conforme inspiração trazida pelo Concílio Vaticano II; uma dessas imagens referenciais é o Pantocrator, o Cristo glorioso, encontrado em muitas igrejas cristãs do primeiro milênio. O presente artigo apresenta o monge beneditino e artista paranaense D. Ruberval Monteiro da Silva através do primeiro Pantocrator pintado por ele em 1992, localizado na capela do Mosteiro da Ressurreição em Ponta Grossa, Paraná, destacando os elementos pictóricos que convergem com o espírito da renovação litúrgica, bem como as impressões de frequentadores daquele espaço celebrativo sobre a pintura, que podem ajudar a compreender como a arte sacra contribui para uma experiência com Cristo de forma pessoal e comunitária.
BIOÉTICA E A TEOLOGIA NAS NARRATIVAS DE GÊNERO E DE RACISMO DO CATOLICISMO ATUAL
Authors: Boccato de Almeida André Luiz
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo analisará a bioética no contexto das narrativas de gênero e de racismo no catolicismo atual. Propõe-se destacar como estas duas questões complexas se situam no pontificado do Papa Francisco e em sua reforma eclesial. A bioética hoje se situa no horizonte de uma busca por um humanismo em todos os setores da convivência humana. Ela é uma ponte, uma possibilidade diálogo entre a secular lógica racional-científica e a urgência de um humanismo que salvaguarde a dignidade humana. Toca ao saber bioético estabelecer pontes de diálogo entre os vários horizontes de saber com as tradições antigas. No pontificado do Papa Francisco ele se posiciona por um humanismo a partir de uma fundamentação religiosa e cristã. O tema do gênero e do racismo ainda é um tabu para a Igreja e para o seu pontificado. Neste artigo se problematizará estas temáticas dentro do universo de compreensão da bioética. A reflexão se norteará por três caminhos. No primeiro, será situada a questão do gênero e do racismo na tradição bíblica e teológica. No segundo, se abordará estes temas no pontificado de Francisco. Enfim, no terceiro, se diagnosticará como eles aparecem neste pontificado, a partir de alguns avanços e limites. Assim, se pretende apresentar, à luz da bioética e do esforço de diálogo, como a tradição cristã-católica, de modo magisterial, compreende estas questões essenciais para a humanidade no contexto atual.
EFFECTS OF GENERAL ASYMMETRIES ON THE ROAD VEHICLE LATERAL VIBRATION
Authors: Junias Josua Kondja , Nangolo Fillemon N
Published: August 2024

The mechanistic deterioration of pavements poses an eccentric kinematic excitation to the vehicle wheels, a situation that amplifies the lateral vibration of the vehicles. Additionally, asymmetric loading of these vehicles translating over the pavement potholes could shift the centre of mass away from the centre of geometry in the lateral direction. Most revised works of literature seem to have not investigated the effects of general asymmetries on lateral vibration separately. This study modelled the effects of combined general asymmetries on the lateral vibration of full car sprung mass. About 27 general symmetrical (control model) and asymmetrical 3D 18 DOF models were developed using SIMWISE 4D and investigated. Depending on the type of loading configuration, it was found that the lateral dynamic response of the sprung mass is seemingly defined by the nature of the kinematic excitation. The developed study models could be used in the analysis of vehicle accidents and the study findings could contribute to an understanding of full vehicle vibrations.
KANTOROVICH VARIATIONAL METHOD FOR THE ELASTIC BUCKLING ANALYSIS OF KIRCHHOFF PLATES WITH TWO OPPOSITE SIMPLY SUPPORTED EDGES
Authors: IKE Charles Chinwuba , Oguaghamba Aloysius Onyedikachi
Published: August 2024

We present the Kantorovich variational method for the elastic buckling solutions of Kirchhoff plates with two opposite simply supported edges. Uniform compressive loading is applied on the two simply supported edges, x = 0 and x = a. Three cases of edge support considered along the y = 0 and y = b edges are (i) both are clamped (ii) both are simply supported, and (iii) edge y = 0 is simply supported while edge y = b is free. The Kantorovich method which is based on seeking to minimize the total potential energy functional P with respect to the unknown deflection w(x, y) assumes the deflection in variable separable form as an infinite series of the product of an unknown function fm(y) and a known sinusoidal function that satisfies the Dirichlet boundary conditions along the simply supported edges. Euler-Lagrange differential equation is used to obtain the fourth order ordinary differential equation which fm(y) must satisfy to minimize P. The general solution for fm(y) is obtained as a combination of hyperbolic and trigonometric functions with four unknown integration constants. The conditions for nontrivial solutions are applied to find the characteristic stability equations in each considered case. Exact solutions are obtained for the elastic buckling equations which are identical with previously obtained solutions in the literature. The elastic buckling equations are solved by iteration methods and by closed form solution methods for the Kirchhoff plate to obtain the elastic buckling loads expressed in terms of the elastic buckling load coefficients. It was found that the method yields exact elastic buckling load and exact elastic buckling load coefficient for each boundary condition considered in this study.
STODOLA-VIANELLO ITERATION METHOD FOR FREE TORSIONAL VIBRATION ANALYSIS OF MONOSYMMETRIC BOX-BEAM BRIDGES
Authors: IKE Charles Chinwuba
Published: August 2024

Box-beam bridges are used in large spans and wider decks due to their high strength and greater torsional and flexural stiffness. They are usually prone to vibration due to moving vehicular traffic. Their eigenfrequency analysis is a crucial aspect of their design in order to ensure that the natural frequency is not close to the excitation frequency to avert resonance failures. The free torsional vibration equation is a fourth order partial differential equation (PDE) with variable parameters. For prismatic cross-sections, homogeneous and isotropic materials the governing PDE have constant parameters. This paper explores the Stodola-Vianello iteration method (SVIM) for solving the PDE for isotropic, homogeneous prismatic box-beams. Harmonic response is assumed, decoupling the PDE to two equations, one in terms of time and the second an ordinary differential equation (ODE) in terms of space coordinates. The Stodola-Vianello method is used by the method of four successive integrations to express the ODE as an algebraic iteration problem with four constants of integration. The four boundary conditions are used to solve for the four constants of integration, thus making the problem determinate. Application of the boundary conditions results in the full determination of the iteration equations.  For simply supported boundaries studied in the work, a trigonometric buckling shape function that satisfies all the boundary conditions is employed in the SVIM formula to obtain the next bucking modal shape function. The requirement for convergence is then used to establish the characteristic buckling equation from which the eigenvalues are obtained. The solution to the characteristic buckling equation gave the exact mathematical expression for the natural torsional frequency at the nth vibration mode. The frequencies are determined for the first eight vibration modes and compared with previously obtained values. It was found that the natural frequencies are identical with previously found values of the exact natural frequencies. The natural frequency obtained is exact because it satisfies the PDE and the boundary conditions at all points in the domain.