bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The chemical evaluation of different dental graft materials by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry technique
Authors: Güler Berceste , Uraz Ahu , Çetiner Deniz
Published: May 2021

Aim: The physicochemical properties of dental graft materials are very important because they strongly influence the bone regeneration capabilities of biomaterials. The purpose of this study is to investigate the chemical composition and surface energies of white (WPTG) and black porous titanium granules (PTG), bovine bone graft and equine-derived bone graft through energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) analysis of the comparison.
Methodology: The surface chemical compositions of PTG, WPTG, bovine bone graft and equine-derived bone graft were measured by EDX analysis. All graft materials’ morphologic characteristics such as particle and granule dimension were evaluated with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The EDX measurement of samples was evaluated at between x85 to x50000 magnification.
Results: PTG grafts showed elements of sodium (%8.88±9.98), chlor (2.44±1.96) and aluminum (0.99±0.37) as well as titanium (90.06±11.34) molecule at x5000 magnification. In WPTG, titanium (%34.55±6.41) and oxygen (%65.44±6.42) molecules were detected. EDX analyses have detected the presence of sodium, calcium, and phosphorus in the equine-derived and bovine bone graft.
Conclusion: It has been found that PTG surface was not made of pure titanium, it has different chemical molecules at larger magnifications and xenografts exhibited different organic material content. Cell culture and experimental studies are needed to establish a relationship between the different commercial dental grafts and their regenerative properties.
How to cite this article: Berceste G, Uraz A, Çetiner D. The chemical evaluation of different dental graft materials by energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry technique. Int Dent Res 2021;11(1):23-9. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no1.5
 
Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Comparison of the incidence of post-operative pain after low-level laser therapy between single- and multi-visit root canal treatments for chronic apical periodontitis: A prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: Özkan Özcan Helin , Haznedaroğlu Faruk , Gökyay Selçuk
Published: May 2021

Aim: The aim of this clinical study was to evaluate the effect of low-level laser therapy, used in conjunction with conventional canal disinfection techniques, on post-operative pain after single- and multi-visit root canal treatments for chronic apical periodontitis.
Methodology: 100 volunteers were randomly divided into 4 groups. The main inclusion criteria were radiographic evidence of apical periodontitis (minimum size of 2.0 × 2.0 mm) and a diagnosis of pulpal necrosis confirmed by a negative response to vitality tests. All the root canals were prepared using a standard shaping technique and irrigation procedure. In Groups I and III, the root canals were obturated during the first visit following chemo-mechanical preparation. In Groups II and IV, the root canals were medicated with calcium hydroxide and obturated during a second visit, 1 week later. In Groups III and IV, after the chemo-mechanical preparation, the root canals were additionally irradiated by an 810-nm diode laser at 1.5 W output for 20 seconds. A modified visual analogue scale was used to measure pain at 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours and 7 days after the treatment.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of post-operative pain at any time during the observation period (p > .05). Post-operative pain occurred only at 8 and 12 hours and at 1, 2, and 3 days in all groups. There was no correlation between the results regarding age, gender, periapical index scores, or tooth type.
Conclusion: The use of low-level laser therapy had no significant effect on the incidence of post-operative pain, and single-visit root canal treatment may be a strong alternative to multi-visit treatment.
How to cite this article: Özkan Özcan H, Haznedaroğlu F, Gökyay S. Comparison of the incidence of post-operative pain after low-level laser therapy between single- and multi-visit root canal treatments for chronic apical periodontitis: A prospective randomized clinical trial. Int Dent Res 2021;11(1):30-7. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no1.6
 
Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
The Effect of Endurance Training with Crocin Consumption on the Levels of AMPK and NRF1 Gene Expression in the Soleus Muscles of Diabetic Rats
Authors: Peyravi Abdolnabi , Nayeri Hashem , Yazdanpanahi Nasrin , Hosseini Seyed Ali
Published: May 2021

Background: Exercise training and crocin, as a herbal antioxidant, help improve metabolism and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and nuclear respiratory factor 1 (NRF1) involve in the mitochondrial biogenesis pathway and diabetes control. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and low intensity continued training (LICT) in combination with crocin consumption on AMPK and NRF1 gene expression in the muscle tissue of diabetic rats. Methods: In this experimental study, 56 adult rats were divided into eight groups (n = 7), including diabetic (crocin utilization, HIIT, LICT, HIIT with crocin, LICT with crocin, control, sham groups) and healthy control group. The HIIT and LICT groups performed five sessions of training per week for eight weeks, and the crocin consumption groups received 25 mg/kg of crocin daily for eight weeks. Moreover, AMPK and NRF1 genes expression levels were evaluated in different groups using real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: According to our results, while induction of diabetes significantly decreased the levels of NRF1 and AMPK gene expression (P ≤ 0.05), training and crocin consumption significantly increased the levels of AMPK and NRF1 gene expression (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: It appears that crocin consumption along with HIIT improves diabetes symptoms through AMPK and NRF1 mechanism in diabetic rats.
Treatment of PCBs Contaminated Soil Via Aerobic Vermicomposting Process Amended with Biological Sewage Sludge
Authors: Eslami Nima , Takdastan Afshin , Atabi Farideh
Published: May 2021

Background: During power plant operations, significant amounts of (PCBs)-contaminated soil are generated. PCBs enter the environment in various forms, causing toxicity in humans and other living organisms. Various technologies are used to remove PCBs from contaminated soils and sediments. Objectives: Bioremediation is an environmentally friendly method to improve areas infected with PCBs. In this study, to decontaminate PCB-contaminated soil, the effect of biological sludge in contaminated soil on the removal of PCBs was investigated in a vermicomposting process at different mix ratios. Methods: Mixtures of PCB-contaminated soil and biological sludge were prepared in sample containers at different mix ratios, and then, earthworms were added. Over 80 days, besides the reduction of PCBs, pH, volatile solid content, and fixed solid content changes were also examined. Results: The highest reduction in PCBs (47.4%) was reported in pilot D at a contaminated soil-to-biological sludge volume ratio of 1:4. Moreover, in the same pilot, the pH level decreased from 7.9 to 7.2, indicating a further decline compared to other pilots, attributed to the further reduction of volatile solids. The highest reduction in volatile solids occurred in pilot D, decreasing from 74.8% at the beginning of the experiment to 42.9% at the end. The largest amount of mineralization also occurred in the same pilot. Conclusions: In this study, it was found that Eisenia fetida worms, along with microorganisms in the biological sludge, could function properly at all volume ratios of contaminated soil to biological sludge and could purify contaminants in a vermicomposting process.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of General Practitioners Toward the Rehabilitation Field and Team Experts in Shiraz, Iran, in 2018
Authors: Farpour Hamid Reza , Kazemi Maryam , Seyed Dehghanian Kayvon , Moradi Mojdeh , Farpour Sima
Published: May 2021

Background: General practitioners (GP) are the keystones in the process of referring patients in Iran. To refer patients to rehabilitation experts effectively and accurately, GPs need to be equipped with knowledge and understanding of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PMR) and its roles and have a positive attitude toward collaborating with rehabilitation teams. Objectives: The current study aimed at evaluating the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of GPs in Shiraz, Iran, toward the rehabilitation field and teamwork. Methods: The current cross sectional study assessed the KAP of GPs working in public and private health sectors in Shiraz, Iran, in 2018 via a researcher-made questionnaire. Participants were recruited using the stratified random sampling method. Results: A total of 200 GPs completed the study. The mean score of knowledge was 13.54 ± 2.68 (ranging from 0 to 24), and the mean score of attitude 10.84 ± 2.47 (ranging from 0 to 20). Regarding practice, none of the participants (0%) had a monthly average of more than five referrals to a physiatrist. Thirty-eight (19%) respondents were interested in choosing PMR as a specialty. Conclusions: According to the current study findings, GPs in Shiraz, Iran, are not equipped with adequate knowledge of rehabilitation and have a moderate attitude toward collaborating with a rehabilitation team. GPs rarely use PMR consultations for their patients’ complications. Policymakers should advocate for a higher level of collaboration between GPs and rehabilitation teams and find ways to better familiarize healthcare providers with PMR.
COVID-19 Risk Perceptions and Social Multipliers in Lithuania
Authors: Telešienė Audronė , Balžekienė Aistė , Budžytė Agnė , Zolubienė Eimantė
Published: May 2021

Analysing COVID-19 threat researchers drew attention to the different demographic and socio-economic characteristics of populations that hold different risk perceptions and have different experiences with the risks of the infection. This article analyses the subjective perception of COVID-19 risks, as perceived by the Lithuanian population, and the objective factors determining the spread and morbidity of Covid-19. The article focuses on the factors associated with social vulnerability. The results of the survey data show that men, working age people and entrepreneurs are the least concerned about the threat of COVID-19. At the same time, statistics show that economically active people and those living in more crowded households are the most vulnerable to the spread of infection. The results of this study point to the greatest discrepancies between objectively assessed and subjectively perceived vulnerabilities, thus helping decision-makers to optimise their efforts and manage the risk of COVID-19 more effectively, prioritising those areas where vulnerabilities are the highest.
Language, Religion and Ethnicity at the Schools with Russian and Polish Language of Instruction in Lithuania: Practices of (Non)Recognition of Cultural Diversity
Authors: Šliavaitė Kristina
Published: May 2021

The paper focuses on the ethnic and religious diversity of school community members at the selected schools and investigates whether and how this diversity is acknowledged and managed in the schooling sector. The paper overviews how research participants perceive the interrelation between language, ethnicity and confession, as well as what ways schools use to deal with religious diversity in their communities. The empirical material comes from qualitative interviews with teachers of religion and members of administration at schools with the Polish and the Russian language of instruction in multi-ethnic urban sites in Lithuania, as well as interviews with members of Catholic or Russian Orthodox communities. The data indicates that school strategies to manage cultural diversity of school community are diverse, but schools where ethnicity and religion are seen as closely related can serve as agents of socialisation into a particular religious or ethnic group and in constructing ethno-confessional identities.
Dignity of Severely and Terminally Ill Persons at the End of Life. Theoretical Framework for Empirical Research
Authors: Kuznecovienė Jolanta , Urbonas Gvidas , Peičius Eimantas , Butkevičienė Rūta , Astromskė Kristina
Published: May 2021

The content of the concept of dignity and its application in empirical health research is widely debated and there is no consensus on the issue. The aim of this article is to provide a theoretical framework for empirical research on the assessment of the dignity of people with severe and incurable diseases at the end of their lives. Although the results of qualitative research in various countries show that the concept of dignity significantly correlates with indicators of autonomy, we argue that even if a relational autonomy approach that, compared with the classic concept of authonomy, is more reliable, still it addresses individual self-determination as a core element. So, the relational autonomy perspective disregards individuals who have lost rational thinking skills. Therefore, in research on the dignity of people with severe and incurable diseases, autonomy can be considered as a necessary but not sufficient component of operationalization of the concept of dignity. In our view, the relational authonomy approach could be supplemented with the care ethic approach. It leads to de-universalization of care needs, takes into account sociocultural context, individual situatedness, etc. We argue that the relational perspective which integrates the care ethic approach enables researchers to reveal multivocality of dignity which must become a central premise of dignity research.
The Phenomenon of Veganism: From Diet and Lifestyle to Social Movement
Authors: Lipnevič Anna
Published: May 2021

The phenomenon of veganism is not new in the World, but it was only in the first decade of this century that it became the subject of wider sociological and other research. The concept of veganism is complex, associated with consumption, lifestyle, social group, social movement, subculture, and other social phenomena, but researchers’ attention to the complexity of this phenomenon is limited. The article examines the multidimensionality of the phenomenon of veganism, which has so far been poorly analysed in the works of Lithuanian researchers, the diversity of its concepts and research directions, and summarises the levels of analysis of the phenomenon of veganism and research directions.
Molecular docking analysis of antimicrobial peptides with the CXCL1 protein target for colorectal cancer
Authors:   Computational Biology Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore - 641046, Tamil Nadu, India, Kumar Praveen Kumar , Piramanayagam Shanmughavel ,   Computational Biology Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore - 641046, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: May 2021

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) play a prominent role in drug discovery due to the rapid increase in drug resistant infections. Hence, we report the molecular docking analysis of antimicrobial peptides MREEKKERKRD and MVQGAKRGGRLHRV with the target protein CXCL1 in the context of colorectal cancer for further consideration in drug discovery.
Molecular docking and dynamic simulations of benzimidazoles with beta-tubulins
Authors:   Department of Pharma Chemistry, QIS College of Pharmacy, Ongole, AP, India-523272, Prasada Rao Chennu Maruthi Malya
Published: May 2021

It is of interest to document the molecular docking and dynamic simulations of benzimidazoles with beta-tubulins in the context of anthelmintic activity. We document the compound BI-02 (2-(3,4-dimethyl phenyl)-1H-1,3-benzimidazole (BI-02) with optimal bindig features compared to the standard molecule albendazole (7.0 Kcal/mol) with binding energy -8.50 Kcal/mol and PIC50 value 583.62 nM.
Data on vildagliptin and vildagliptin plus metformin combination in type-2 diabetes mellitus management
Authors:   Endeavour Clinics, Bhubaneswar, India, Das Sambit
Published: May 2021

It is of interest to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and safety of vildagliptin as monotherapy and combination therapy of vildagliptin and metformin for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in Indian settings. The study included patients with T2DM (aged >18 years) receiving vildagliptin monotherapy and vildagliptin in combination with metformin therapy of various strengths. Data related to demographics, risk factors, medical history, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and medical therapies were retrieved from medical records. Out of 9678 patients (median age, 52.0 years), 59.1% were men. A combination of vildagliptin and metformin (50/500 mg) was the most commonly used therapy (54.8%), and the median duration of therapy was 24.0 months. The predominant reason for selecting vildagliptin therapy was to improve HbA1c levels (87.8%). A total of 87.5% of patients required dosage up-titration. Vildagliptin therapy was used in patients with T2DM and associated complications (peripheral neuropathy, CAD, nephropathy, retinopathy, autonomous neuropathy, stroke/TIA, and peripheral artery disease). Among 5175 patients who experienced body weight changes, a majority of patients had lost weight (68.6%). The target glycemic control was achieved in 95.3% of patients. The mean HbA1c levels were significantly decreased post-treatment (mean change: 1.34%; p<0.001). Adverse events were reported in 0.4% of patients. Physicians rated the majority of patients as good to excellent on the global evaluation of efficacy and tolerability scale (98.9%, each). Vildagliptin with or without metformin was an effective therapy in reducing HbA1c helps in achieving target glycemic control, and was well-tolerated in Indian patients with T2DM continuum.
Structure analysis of deleterious nsSNPs in human PALB2 protein for functional inference
Authors:   Clinical Biochemistry and Translational Medicine Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Dhaka,Bangladesh, Nawar Noshin
Published: May 2021

Partner and Localizer of BRCA2 or PALB2 is a typical tumor suppressor protein, that responds to DNA double stranded breaks through homologous recombination repair. Heterozygous mutations in PALB2 are known to contribute to the susceptibility of breast and ovarian cancer. However, there is no comprehensive study characterizing the structural and functional impacts of SNPs located in the PALB2 gene.Therefore, it is of interest to document a comprehensive analysis of coding and non-coding SNPs located at the PALB2 loci using in silico tools. The data for 1455 non-synonymous SNPs (nsSNPs) located in the PALB2 loci were retrieved from the dbSNP database. Comprehensive characterization of the SNPs using a combination of in silico tools such as SIFT, PROVEAN, PolyPhen, PANTHER, PhDSNP, Pmut, MutPred 2.0 and SNAP-2, identified 28 functionally important SNPs. Among these, 16 nsSNPs were further selected for structural analysis using conservation profile and protein stability. The most deleterious nsSNPs were documented within the WD40 domain of PALB2. A general outline of the structural consequences of each variant was developed using the HOPE project data. These 16 mutant structures were further modelled using SWISS Model and three most damaging mutant models (rs78179744, rs180177123 and rs45525135) were identified. The non-coding SNPs in the 3’ UTR region of the PALB2 gene were analyzed for altered miRNA target sites. The comprehensive characterization of the coding and non-coding SNPs in the PALB2 locus has provided a list of damaging SNPs with potential disease association. Further validation through genetic association study will reveal their clinical significance.
Survey data on dental treatment during the covid-19 outbreak at Patna in the state of Bihar, India
Authors: Singh Amit KR
Published: May 2021

It is of interest to assess the level of knowledge on dental treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic at Patna, Bihar, India. The study population consisted of Indian subjects with a minimum qualification of high school. An online questionnaire was sent to a sample of 650 subjects consisting of both male and female in March 2020. The questionnaire comprised of a series of questions about subjects’demographic characteristics; their awareness of the COVID-19 and their perception towards dental treatment. This study included a total of 650 members aged 20-70 years (mean 36.9 years with a standard deviation of 10.5 years) participants. A total of 446 subjects responded to questionnaire. A total of 29.1% subjects had completed their masters, 52.2% had knowledge of corona virus from news, and 30.5% had read about COVID-19 from official websites. A total of 71.3% participants showed reluctance in undertaking dental treatment during pandemic. The majority of participants (60.5%) believed that dental setups could be a potential source of infection of COVID-19 and thus avoided visiting dentists. Most of them (69.7%) adhered to medicines instead of dental treatment. Most of them (96.6%) agreed not to hide any symptoms of COVID-19 from the dentist. 54.7% agreed to undergo a screening test for the virus. 93.7% participants refrained from cosmetic and aesthetic procedures during pandemic and 54.7% believed that at these unprecedented times would affect the cost of dental procedures. Subjects were aware of COVID-19 symptoms, mode of transmission of the virus, screening test and in-home precautions/measures to be taken. However, subjects had limited comprehension of the extra precautionary measures that protect them during dental procedures. It should be noted that most of them refrained from visiting dentists and avoided aesthetic procedures.
Preparation and orientation mechanism analysis of (BiTm)3(GaFe)5O12 magneto-optical single crystal film with out-of-plane orientation
Authors: Yang Xue , Yang Qing-Hui , Zhang Huai-Wu , Wen Qi-Ye , Bai Fei-Ming , Zhong Zhi-Yong , Zhang Ding , Huang Jian-Tao ,   School of Electronic Science and Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China
Published: May 2021

Liquid-phase epitaxy (LPE) is one of the best techniques for the preparation of single crystal garnet films. However, the specific Faraday rotation angle of Yttrium iron garnet (YIG) is small, and its easy magnetization axis is parallel to the film surface. The YIG requires a large external saturation field, which cannot meet the development needs of magneto-optical devices. It is found that Bi-substituted YIG(Bi:YIG) film has a larger specific Faraday angle. By adjusting the easy magnetization axis of Bi: YIG perpendicular to the film surface, the saturation magnetization of Bi: YIG can be reduced, so that it can work under a small external magnetic field. This meets the development needs of miniaturization and energy saving of magneto-optical device. The saturation magnetization of garnet film can be effectively reduced by substituting Ga3+ for YIG crystal, mainly for Fe3+ at the 24d position of its tetrahedron. And the lattice constants of Gd3Ga5O12 (GGG) and YIG are 1.2383 nm and 1.2376 nm, respectively. However, the radius of Bi3+ (10.8 nm) is larger than that of Y3+ (9.0 nm), the lattice mismatch of garnet film increases with the incorporation of Bi3+. In order to neutralize the lattice expansion caused by Bi3+, Tm3+ (8.69 nm) with a radius smaller than that of Y3+ (9.0 nm) is selected. Based on the theoretical analysis of the magnetocrystalline anisotropy of garnet film, (BiTm)3(GaFe)5O12 mono-crystalline films with different growth temperatures and different thickness values are grown by LPE on GGG (111) substrates. The experimental results show that when the thickness of epitaxial film is greater than 1 μm, the influence of shape anisotropy on magnetocrystalline anisotropy can be ignored. With the increase of growth temperature, the substitution number of Bi3+ ions decreases gradually, the lattice constant of epitaxial film decreases gradually, and the lattice mismatch first decreases and then increases. Then, the state of compressive stress gradually changes into that of tensile stress. Compared with growth-induced anisotropy, the stress-induced anisotropy is dominant in the change of magnetocrystalline anisotropy. The Verdet constant of (BiTm)3(GaFe)5O12 film is 11.8 × 104 rad/Tm@1064 nm. The results show that the prepared (BiTm)3(GaFe)5O12 mono-crystalline films have great development potential in magneto-optical devices.
Design and optimization analysis of imaging system of polarized skylight pattern of full polarization
Authors: Wang Cheng , Fan Zhi-Guo , Jin Hai-Hong , Wang Xian-Qiu , Hua Dou ,   School of Computer Science and Information Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230601, China,   Key Laboratory of Knowledge Engineering with Big Data, Ministry of Education, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230601, China,   School of Electronic and Information Engineering, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
Published: May 2021

Full polarization imaging can obtain more information about target, which has a broad application prospect in the target detection, researches of atmospheric characteristics, and medical diagnosis. This paper develops an imaging system of polarized skylight pattern of full polarization for obtaining the information about full polarization rapidly. Meanwhile, aiming at the problem that the error of the light intensity image obtained by the system due to the different “behavior” of the system transmission matrix is brought into the solution of the target Stokes vector, this paper analyzes the condition number and determinant of the system transmission matrix. Firstly, an objective function is established by combining the three sets of condition numbers and the determinant. Therefore, the problem of solving the optimal transmission matrix is transformed into a multi-condition extremal problem. And then the objective function is minimized to determine the optimal angle of the transmission matrix when the 1 norm condition number, 2 norm condition number and ∞ norm condition number reach the minimum value and the determinant reaches the maximum value. In addition, in order to improve the measurement accuracy, the delay components of quarter wave plate, extinction ratio of polarizer, and the transmission matrix of the system are calibrated. Optimization contrast experiment and outfield experiment are performed. The entropy, mean, and standard deviation are used to quantify the optimized results of the angle of polarization, degree of polarization, and degree of linear polarization. ∆Aop is defined as the difference in absolute value of angle of polarization between the two sides of the symmetry axis to verify the optimization performance of angle of polarization. Experimental results show that the polarization angle error after optimization is reduced by more than 10% compared with that before optimization; the error of the band of maximum polarization and the error of the neutral zone in the degree of polarization and linear polarization also decline to different degrees compared with before optimization. On this basis, an experiment on measuring external field full polarization information is carried out. The results show that the system meets the design requirements and can effectively obtain the sky full polarization information.
Why Should we Use Inclined Tables in Engineering Drawing Works?
Authors: Abdelgawad Abdelaty E. , Soliman Ahmed T. , Ramadan Mohamed Z.
Published: May 2021

One of the primary purposes of studying human Factors is to relieve work stresses imposed on the workers during their jobs. The current study consisted of two stages. The first phase aimed to develop a microcomputer biomechanically based to analyze clerk body postures. The second phase was to test that developed model on studying table tapes (i.g., adjustable inclined versus table vs. fixed horizontal table) during drawing engineering designs. The results showed the capability of the proposed model for analyzing the clerks’ jobs. In addition, the inclined furniture was superior in reducing the stresses associated with doing jobs using furniture compared with fixed horizontal tables. Finally, it would be better to use a simple tool such as the developed one to analyze complicated tasks that force workers to take awkward postures and sustained that posture for an extended period.
Enchondromatosis Affecting the Foot: A Case Report
Authors: Edwards Steven R , Gilheany Mark F
Published: May 2021

Enchondromatosis is characterised by asymmetrical cartilage lesions of variable distribution that cause pain, deformity, changes to limb length, and potential malignancy. The cause is unknown. The pain associated with enchondromatosis is due to the increasing pressure of the lesions on the surrounding bone. A 16-year-old male with suspected enchondromatosis affecting his left foot was referred to our surgical practice. Physical examination revealed swelling and disfigurement with moderate pain upon palpation of the second and third toes. X-rays and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) displayed lesions within the proximal and middle phalanx of the second and proximal phalanx of the third toe. Management involved curettage with insertion of tibial bone graft with percutaneous Kirschner wire stabilisation. Success was defined as the resolution of symptoms, successful take of the graft and normal alignment of the tires. At eight-weeks postoperatively the patient reported no pain and his toes were in normal alignment and not deformed. Enchondromatosis is an uncommon disorder that may respond well to surgical curettage with bone graft.
Neonatal Umbilical Myiasis- A Rare Case Report
Authors: Kumar Sonu , Dalal Poonam , Neha . , Singla Ankit
Published: May 2021

Myiasis is an infestation of live vertebrates (humans and/or animals) by larvae of dipterous fly. Although, it usually infects domestic and wild animals but humans may be rarely affected if they are reared in unhygienic condition. The index case is a seven-day-old male neonate born by normal vaginal delivery, who presented to the Emergency Department with complaint of passage of worms from umbilicus which do not extend to deeper tissues. On examination, periumbilical erythema was also visible along with white glistening worms. After application of turpentine oil to the umbilical stump, the worms were mechanically removed with the help of forceps. Umbilical myiasis is a very rare presentation indicating poor hygiene and a preventable condition.
Bilayer Mesh Repair for Inguinal Hernia- The Open Alternative to Laparoscopic Repairs
Authors: Kanungo Abinash , Behera Chinmaya Ranjan , Majumder Riddhika , Mishra Subrajit , Sahu Subrat Kumar , Pujari Pran Singh
Published: May 2021

Introduction: In 1999, Gilbert described the technique of using a bilayer mesh device, Prolene Hernia System (PHS) for tension free repairs of inguinal hernias through an open anterior approach. This provides an anterior, posterior and plug repair, and hence successfully covers the myopectineal orifice, the lack of which is a glaring drawback for the Lichtensteins repair. This also confers the same benefit provided by the laparoscopic hernia repairs which uses the preperitoneal space to cover this same region that is, Transabdominal Preperitoneal Patch Plasty (TAPP) and Total Extraperitoneal patch Plasty (TEP). Aim: To observe the overall outcome of using the open bi-layered dual mesh in a population of Odisha, attending a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: All patients admitted with inguinal hernias in the Department of General Surgery, Pradyumna Bal Memorial Hospital, KIMS, Odisha, India were included in the study. They all underwent the PHS bilayer mesh repair. The relevant patient specifics like, preoperative clinical findings and intra and postoperative results were noted in a master chart. Patients were followed-up for one year, and further long-term complications were noted, if any. Results: There were a total of 40 patients. The mean duration for the procedure was 61 minutes (SD-22.8) and there was no inadvertent injury. The patients were encouraged to resume all physical activities from the first postoperative day. All the patients had an uneventful recovery, with a mean hospital stay of four days. Four patients presented with seroma after one week of surgery, while 22 patients had cord oedema. Both subsided spontaneously within three weeks, without further intervention. No recurrence was noted in any of the patients. Conclusion: The PHS bilayer dual mesh repair is ideally suited for population in a low resource setting. It ensures coverage of the entire vulnerable area of groin along with a considerably shorter duration of operation, minimal risk of intraoperative injury.
Clinicopathological Features, Management and Outcome of Paediatric Solid Renal Tumours in Southeast Nigeria: The Need for Protocol and Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Authors: Ekwunife Okechukwu Hyginus , Ugwu Jideofor Okechukwu , Modekwe Victor Ifeanyichukwu , Ezeudu Chijioke Elias , Ulasi Thomas Obiajulu , Ukah Cornelius Ozobia
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Renal malignancies are common in children and they constitute 6-7% of all childhood tumours and nephroblastoma is the most common solid renal tumour in children. Currently, standardised institutional protocols in management of renal tumours in children are the norm. Large scale collaborative studies have started emerging, yet not much has been documented on the clinical presentation, pathology and outcome of solid renal tumours particularly in Africa. Aim: To review the presentations, pathology and the management-outcome of solid renal tumour in the centre in the absence of a coordinated protocol and multi-disciplinary collaboration. Materials and Methods: This was a nine and a half year longitudinal retrospective audit study of consecutive patients with solid renal tumours managed in a single tertiary centre: Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital Nnewi South-east Nigeria. It took place from January 2009-June 2018. Relevant data on demography, clinical features, management and outcome were extracted from records. Results were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Categorical data were tested for independence using Chi-square test and significant p-value set at <0.05. Results: Twenty two paediatric cases (15 males and 7 females) were included in the study. The mean age at presentation was 50.10±4.8 months. There were 15 males and 7 females. The mean duration of symptoms was 5.5 months; 21 (95%) presented with abdominal masses while 6 (27.3%) had gross haematuria and 13 (59%) were emaciated. Tumours involved left kidney in 15 (68%). Histological reports were available in 9 cases with nephroblastoma being the most common 6 (27.3%). The Commonest stage was stage 3, 10 (45%) and commonest procedure was nephroureterectomy, 11 (50%). Neo-adjuvant and adjuvant therapies were inconsistent. Conclusion: Late presentation, discordant treatment protocol, noncompletion of treatment and poor collaboration, were found to contribute largely to poor outcome of solid renal tumours in children in our setting. It is strongly believed that adoption of standard protocol and a multidisciplinary collaboration in management will improve records keeping and outcome.
Isolated Proximal Ureteric Injury after a Penetrating Stab Wound to Lumbar Region
Authors: Goyal Manav , Sivasankar G , Sivabalan J
Published: May 2021

Urological injuries fall far behind other abdominal injuries when it comes to involvement during trauma. Amongst urological trauma, ureteral injuries account for 1-2.5%. An isolated ureteral injury is infrequently encountered because of a safe retroperitoneal location and a smaller diameter of the ureter as compared to other organs. A high index of suspicion is needed as a delayed or missed diagnosis of penetrating ureteral trauma or an unrecognised and mismanaged ureteral injury can lead to significant complications, including formation of urinoma, abscess, ureteral stricture or urinary fistula, and potential loss of the ipsilateral kidney. The present case report is of a 35-year-old male who presented to the Emergency Department of tertiary care hospital with a stab injury in left lumbar region and was diagnosed with isolated ureteral injury on Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT). Without much delay, ureteroscopy was done, a double J stent was placed and ureteroureterostomy was performed.
Comparison of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate and Postpartum Intrauterine Contraceptive Device in a Teaching Institute of Rural Bengal: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Burman Sougata Kumar , Mukherjee Jayeeta , Chowdhury Ranita Roy , Deb Soumen
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Contraception is one of the proximate determinants of fertility and the most important predictor of fertility transition. Depot Medroxy Progesterone Acetate (DMPA) and Intrauterine contraceptive device share some common features- both are Long Acting and Reversible Contraceptives (LARC), but the mechanisms are different. DMPA is a noninvasive, hormonal manoeuvre IUCD is an invasive, nonhormonal one. Aim: To compare the acceptance and reasons for refusal or non-compliance between DMPA and Postpartum Intrauterine Contraceptive (PPIUCD). Materials and Methods: A longitudinal cohort study was done in which total of 110 post partum women (55 in each group) using either DMPA or IUCD were selected randomly and were interviewed and followed up for minimum of six months. Data (variables- number of candidates accepting or refusing PPIUCD or DMPA) from the questionnaires were entered in Microsoft Office Excel 2007 and was transferred to IBM SPSS software, version 20.0 (SPSS Inc. Chicago, IL, USA). Pearson’s Chi-square test was used for variables and p-values were calculated using to find out the statistical significance of the variables and p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The overall acceptance of DMPA (87.3%) was found to be much more than that of PPIUCD (63.6%). In respect to different age groups, the acceptances of both PPIUCD and DMPA were significantly higher in women of age group 21-25. In respect to parity, acceptance of PPIUCD was more in women with one child, whereas the acceptances of DMPA were almost similar in women with either one or two children. Women using PPIUCD, 36.4% refused to continue with the method, whereas only 12.7% of DMPA users refused further injections, the main reason for both the groups being the same irregular bleeding. Conclusion: The acceptance as well as compliance of DMPA as a method of postpartum contraception is much better than PPIUCD in women of this part of part of rural Bengal.
Parental Outlook and Problems Faced during Lockdown in COVID-19 Pandemic: Experience from a Paediatric Haematology-Oncology Unit in a Developing Country-A Questionnaire-Based Survey
Authors: Maheshwari Supriya , Mehndiratta Sumit , Amitabh .
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in disruption of essential healthcare services. Children with cancer are very vulnerable group and delay in seeking treatment or defaulting scheduled medications adversely affects the outcome. Aim: To obtain insight into barriers and to evaluate concerns, outlook and challenges faced by parents of children suffering with malignancy in accessing the healthcare services during lockdown imposed due to COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted from parents of children newly diagnosed (during lockdown restrictions) with malignancy and previously diagnosed and under treatment at Paediatric Haematology Oncology unit in a Tertiary care centre. The responses were recorded in predesigned proforma during 15 days period after restrictions were relaxed. Results: Fifty-five responses were recorded and analysed. Father was the respondent in most cases. Acute Leukaemia (n=37) and Lymphoma (n=14) patients comprised majority of the patients. Major challenges faced were transportation (98.2%), financial burden (96.4%) and loss of job (65.4%). Fear of contracting COVID-19 infection was a primary barrier in seeking treatment for most respondents. Conclusion: The success and outcome of children with malignancy has been suboptimal in low-income and middle-income countries due to effect of lack of timely access of healthcare services, delayed diagnosis, treatment abandonment, poor compliance and financial constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated setbacks have accentuated these factors and may have long term impact in final outcome for such patients.
Retrospective Study on Safety and Efficacy of Transperitoneal Laparoscopic Surgery and Open Surgery for Retrocaval Ureter
Authors: Pal Dilip Kumar , Tiwari Ashutosh Kumar , Maiti Krishnendu
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly which remains silent until the 3rd or 4th decade of life. But once a patient develops symptoms, it mandates treatment in the form of surgical management. Open surgery has traditionally been considered as the standard of care but it has its own downside or limitations. It requires a relatively large skin incision causing significant postoperative pain and thus prolonging convalescence. Transperitoneal laparoscopic approach is the preferred approach by most surgeons owing to large working space and familiar anatomy. Aim: To compare the safety and efficacy of transperitoneal laparoscopic and open surgery for definitive management of retrocaval ureter. Materials and Methods: Clinical data of fifteen patients, that underwent surgery for retrocaval ureter from December 2013 to January 2020 and the study of this data was done from June 2020, at Urology Department were analysed retrospectively. Out of 15 patients, seven were treated by open surgery while eight underwent transperitoneal laparoscopic surgery. Ureter was transpositioned to normal anatomic position followed by uretero-ureterostomy. Student t-test was applied to interpret and analyse the data obtained in both the groups using SPSS version 24. Results: Total of 15 patients data was studied (7 open surgery + 8 transpertional laparoscopic surgery, age 21-45 years). Intraoperative and postoperative data were compared between the transperitoneal laparoscopic and open surgery group. A statistically significant difference was found for operative time (p-value <0.001), estimated blood loss (p-value <0.05), analgesic requirement (p-value <0.001), drain removal (p-value <0.05) and hospital stay (p-value <0.001) between the two groups. Superficial surgical site infection was noted in two patients in open surgery group. For rest 13 patients postoperative period was uneventful. The follow-up of all patients was done for 12-36 months. Conclusion: Transperitoneal laparoscopic uretero-ureterostomy as a definitive treatment of retrocaval ureter is safe, effective and reliable option with less trauma and faster recovery. This minimally invasive technique can be considered as the first choice for treatment of retrocaval ureter on account of familiar anatomy and easier learning curve in contrast to retroperitoneal laparoscopic or robotic surgery.
Variability of Standard Liver Volume by 2D Ultrasound: A Cross-sectional Study from Eastern India
Authors: Ain Partha Sarathi , Roy Uttam Kumar , Sen Krishna , Ray Debes , Pal Jayanta
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Liver volume estimation is an essential component prior to major hepatic surgery and liver transplantation. Liver volume is evaluated with different formulae, gold standard Computed Tomography (CT) volumetry and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). As per literature review, studies comparing ultrasonography with formula based liver volume estimation are very few. Ultrasonography is non-invasive in nature and inexpensive. It is gaining popularity among clinicians as it helps in rapid evaluation of liver volumes. Aim: To compare variability of liver volume using 2D ultrasound with a standard well-established method based on formula derived by Johnson et al. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study done between August-October 2020 and patients were selected by the physician from general Outpatient Department (OPD) pool and clinically screened for further biochemical studies. Participants aged 20-60 years with normal liver function test were recruited in the study. Images were taken on a Siemens Ultrasound System. Study variables included were liver volumes estimated by two methods, age, weight, height and Body Surface Area (BSA). F test was used to compare variability between liver volumes estimated by two different methods. Bivariate correlation between ultrasonography-based liver volume and different body indices was also tested. Results: Variability comparison using F test shows no significant difference (F=1.095, df1=149, df2=149, p=0.29). Liver volumes estimated by two methods showed good correlation with each other and is significant at the 0.01 level, r=0.574. The mean difference (125 cc) in volumes between two methods were statistically significant (t=10.92, degree of freedom=149, p<0.001) and were not in agreement with each other. Body parameters were correlated with liver volume estimated by 2D ultrasound. Conclusion: Ultrasonography is a useful tool in estimating liver volume prior to major hepatic resection. Formula based calculation of Standard Liver Volume (SLV) does not agree with USG based volume and underestimates the mean liver volume obtained by USG method.