bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dual role of curcumin and ferulic acid in counteracting chemoresistance and cisplatin-induced ototoxicity
Authors: Paciello Fabiola , Fetoni Anna Rita , Mezzogori Daniele , Rolesi Rolando , Di Pino Antonella , Paludetti Gaetano , Grassi Claudio , Troiani Diana
Published: January 2020

Platinum-based agents, such as cisplatin, form the mainstay of currently used chemotherapeutic regimens for several malignancies; however, the main limitations are chemoresistance and ototoxic side effects. In this study we used two different polyphenols, curcumin and ferulic acid as adjuvant chemotherapeutics evaluating (1) in vivo their antioxidant effects in protecting against cisplatin ototoxicity and (2) in vitro the transcription factors involved in tumor progression and cisplatin resistance. We reported that both polyphenols show antioxidant and oto-protective activity in the cochlea by up-regulating Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway and downregulating p53 phosphorylation. However, only curcumin is able to influence inflammatory pathways counteracting NF-κB activation. In human cancer cells, curcumin converts the anti-oxidant effect into a pro-oxidant and anti-inflammatory one. Curcumin exerts permissive and chemosensitive properties by targeting the cisplatin chemoresistant factors Nrf-2, NF-κB and STAT-3 phosphorylation. Ferulic acid shows a biphasic response: it is pro-oxidant at lower concentrations and anti-oxidant at higher concentrations promoting chemoresistance. Thus, polyphenols, mainly curcumin, targeting ROS-modulated pathways may be a promising tool for cancer therapy. Thanks to their biphasic activity of antioxidant in normal cells undergoing stressful conditions and pro-oxidant in cancer cells, these polyphenols probably engage an interplay among the key factors Nrf-2, NF-κB, STAT-3 and p53.
A thin film efficient pn-junction thermoelectric device fabricated by self-align shadow mask
Authors: Kogo Gilbert , Xiao Bo , Danquah Samuel , Lee Harold , Niyogushima Julien , Yarbrough Kelsea , Candadai Aaditya , Marconnet Amy , Pradhan Sangram K. , Bahoura Messaoud
Published: January 2020

Large area highly crystalline MoS2 and WS2 thin films were successfully grown on different substrates using radio-frequency magnetron sputtering technique. Structural, morphological and thermoelectric transport properties of MoS2, and WS2 thin films have been investigated systematically to fabricate high-efficient thermal energy harvesting devices. X-ray diffraction data revealed that crystallites of MoS2 and WS2 films are highly oriented in 002 plane with uniform grain size distribution confirmed through atomic force microscopy study. Surface roughness increases with substrate temperature and it plays a big role in electron and phonon scattering. Interestingly, MoS2 films also display low thermal conductivity at room temperature and strongly favors achievement of higher thermoelectric figure of merit value of up to 1.98. Raman spectroscopy data shows two distinct MoS2 vibrational modes at 380 cm−1 for E12g and 410 cm−1 for A1g. Thermoelectric transport studies further demonstrated that MoS2 films show p-type thermoelectric characteristics, while WS2 is an n-type material. We demonstrated high efficient pn-junction thermoelectric generator device for waste heat recovery and cooling applications.
Epidemiological cut-offs for Sensititre susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: interpretive criteria cross validated with whole genome sequencing
Authors: Ismail Nazir A. , Ismail Farzana , Joseph Lavania , Govender Netricia , Blows Linsay , Kaniga Koné , Omar Shaheed V.
Published: January 2020

Universal drug susceptibility testing (DST) is an important requirement of the End TB Strategy. The Sensititre broth micro-dilution assay (BMD) tests multiple drugs quantitatively. We defined interpretive criteria for this assay and analysed genotypic-phenotypic relationships. 385 Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates were processed for BMD and whole genome sequencing. The epidemiological cut-off value 99% (ECV99) amongst genotypically wild type (gWT) strains defined susceptibility. Minimum inhibitory concentration distributions of the resistance-associated variants (RAVs) for each drug were analysed. Susceptibility (µg/mL) criteria were determined as follows: rifampicin (≤0.125), isoniazid (≤0.25), ethambutol (≤2.0), moxifloxacin (≤0.5), levofloxacin (≤1.0), amikacin (≤2.0), kanamycin (≤8.0), capreomycin (≤4.0), clofazimine (≤0.25) and linezolid (≤2.0). Most drugs showed clear separation between gWT and RAV. Isoniazid showed a tri-modal pattern with 14/17 strains at ECV99 harbouring a fabG1 c. -15C > T RAV. Ethambutol RAVs at embB codons 306, 405 and 497 were responsible for resistance and showed differential distributions. Moxifloxacin RAVs (gyrA codon 90) were a dilution or two higher than the ECV99 while gyrB RAVs were uncommon and showed drug specific resistance propensity. Interpretive criteria established were robust facilitating progress towards universal DST and individualised precision medicine. This study demonstrates the value of quantitative DST to accurately interpret mutation data.
The optimal sequence of bronchial brushing and washing for diagnosing peripheral lung cancer using non-guided flexible bronchoscopy
Authors: Lim Jun Hyeok , Kim Min Jeong , Jeon Sang-Hoon , Park Mi Hwa , Kim Woo Youl , Lee Minkyung , Kim Jun Ho , Kim Jung Soo , Kim Young Sam , Kim Lucia , Lee Kyung-Hee , Kwak Seung Min , Shin Hyekyung , Nam Hae-Seong
Published: January 2020

The optimum sequence of bronchial brushing and washing for diagnosing peripheral lung cancer, defined as an invisible endobronchial tumour, is not clear and requires further study. We prospectively obtained washing samples after brushing in patients with peripheral lung tumours during non-guided flexible bronchoscopy (FB) to investigate the diagnostic yield of these samples and conducted a retrospective review of the prospectively collected data. The study included 166 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The overall diagnostic yield of bronchial brushing and washing for peripheral lung cancer was 52.4%. The diagnostic yields of brushing and washing were 37.3% and 46.4%, respectively, and that of washing was superior according to McNemar’s test (p = 0.017, κ = 0.570). Furthermore, washing was diagnostic, whereas brushing was not, in 15.1% of all cases. Comparison of positive washing cytology (brushing) with the respective pathological diagnosis yielded a concordance rate of 88.3% (90.3%), with κ = 0.769 (0.801) (p < 0.001). Performing washing after brushing during non-guided FB is a very safe, cost-effective procedure that may help improve the diagnostic yield in patients with suspected peripheral lung cancer. Our information will also benefit clinicians performing diagnostic bronchoscopy in patients with suspected peripheral lung cancer when fluoroscopic guidance or advanced bronchoscopy techniques are not available.
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach in the isolation of bioactive natural products
Authors: Demarque Daniel P. , Dusi Renata G. , de Sousa Francisco D. M. , Grossi Sophia M. , Silvério Maira R. S. , Lopes Norberto P. , Espindola Laila S.
Published: January 2020

Metabolomics is a powerful tool in the analysis and identification of metabolites responsible for biological properties. Regarding natural product chemistry, it constitutes a potential strategy to streamline the classic and laborious process of isolating natural products, which often involves the re-isolation and identification of known compounds. In this contribution, we establish a mass spectrometry-based metabolomics strategy to discover compounds with larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti. We analyse the Brazilian plant Annona crassiflora using different platforms to annotate the active compounds in different extracts/fractions of various plant parts. The MetaboAnalyst and GNPS platforms, which consider LC-MS and LC-MS/MS data, respectively, were chosen to identify compounds that differentiate active and inactive samples. Bio-guided isolation was subsequently performed to confirm compound activity. Results proved the capacity of metabolomics to predict metabolite differences between active and inactive samples using LC-MS and LC-MS/MS data. Moreover, we discuss the limitations, possibilities, and strategies to have a broad view of vast data.
Retrospective analysis of patients with non-tuberculous mycobacteria from a primary hospital in Southeast China
Authors: Ji Songjun , Xu Wanping , Sun Jianmin , Shi Yunzhen , Pan Xinling
Published: January 2020

To achieve a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of patients with non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), patients with NTM between January 2016 and June 2019 were recruited from a primary hospital. NTM were identified based on the MBP64 protein assay. The clinical records and laboratory assay results were retrospectively reviewed. A total of 204 patients with NTM were included in the final analysis. The patients with multiple isolations were more likely accompanied with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (p = 0.029) and arthritis (p = 0.049), but showed a lower percentage of positive T-spot results (p = 0.022). In addition, patients with multiple isolations showed a higher rate of positive acid-fast staining results and their symptom duration was more likely longer than 30 days (p = 0.019). Patients with a positive response in T-spot assay showed a higher proportion of nodular manifestation on computed tomography (CT) than those with a negative response. Compared with male patients with NTM, female patients showed lower rates of positive acid-fast staining results (p = 0.03), but were more likely accompanied with COPD (p < 0.0001). The positive acid-fast staining results were closely associated with pulmonary cavities and tuberculosis antibody. Patients with different NTM isolation frequencies were closely associated with coexisting diseases and examination results.
Author Correction: Brain targeting of 9c,11t-Conjugated Linoleic Acid, a natural calpain inhibitor, preserves memory and reduces Aβ and P25 accumulation in 5XFAD mice
Authors: Binyamin Orli , Nitzan Keren , Frid Kati , Ungar Yael , Rosenmann Hanna , Gabizon Ruth
Published: January 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Stoichiometry of adamantylamine–trinitrophloroglucinol salts controlled by solvate formation
Authors: Smokrović Kristina , Stilinović Vladimir
Published: January 2020

The stoichiometry of salts formed by adamantylamine and trinitrophloroglucinol depends on the incorporation of the crystallisation solvent in the crystal structure.
Metalloradical intermediates in electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO: Mn versus Re bis-N-heterocyclic carbene pincers
Authors: Myren Tessa H. T. , Alherz Abdulaziz , Stinson Taylor A. , Huntzinger Chloe G. , Lama Bimala , Musgrave Charles B. , Luca Oana R.
Published: January 2020

Catalysis arrested by a redox-active ligand.
Recent advances in the interface design of solid-state electrolytes for solid-state energy storage devices
Authors: Xu Xiaolong , Hui Kwan San , Hui Kwun Nam , Wang Hao , Liu Jingbing
Published: January 2020

High-ionic-conductivity solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) have been extensively explored for electrochemical energy storage technologies because these materials can enhance the safety of solid-state energy storage devices (SSESDs).
2D ferromagnetism in europium/graphene bilayers
Authors: Sokolov Ivan S. , Averyanov Dmitry V. , Parfenov Oleg E. , Karateev Igor A. , Taldenkov Alexander N. , Tokmachev Andrey M. , Storchak Vyacheslav G.
Published: January 2020

Coupling to Eu makes graphene magnetic without sacrificing its intrinsic properties.
Investigating perceptions of the structure and development of scientific knowledge in the context of a transformed organic chemistry lecture course
Authors: Flaherty A. A.
Published: January 2020

Organic Chemistry, Life, the Universe and Everything (OCLUE) is an undergraduate lecture-based organic chemistry course that has been transformed in line with the vision for science education set out by the ‘Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practices, Crosscutting Concepts and Core Ideas’ (National Research Council, 2012). OCLUE is designed to progress students understanding of core ideas in organic chemistry through the use of scientific practices such as constructing explanations, predictions and models. The purpose of this study is to generate theory on how OCLUE students conceptualise the structure and development of scientific knowledge. Eleven students with diverse experiences and exam performances were interviewed. The data was collected and analysed in accordance with the tenants of constructivist grounded theory (Charmaz, 2000). OCLUE students conceptualised a hierarchical structure of scientific knowledge whereby behind claims and answers in science is important information that determines the validity of the claim or answer. Being adept in utilising this information was important to students in OCLUE as it provided them with the opportunity to account for why phenomena occur in organic chemistry. Students explained that the process of developing scientific knowledge is rarely straight-forward or pre-determined. Instead it was believed that scientists needed to piece together what they know in seemingly random ways in order to solve science puzzles. In the context of OCLUE, students explained that memorising information ahead of OCLUE exams was insufficient. Instead they had to synthesise and interrogate their prior understanding to figure out new problems encountered in OCLUE exams. Students attributed the efficacy of OCLUE's pedagogy to helping them engage in constructivist thinking processes that involved interrogating and applying their prior knowledge. This contributes to the understanding that OCLUE has set out a precedent organic chemistry course that can foster a more scientific way of learning science that contrasts students’ engagement in considerably arduous memorisation techniques.
Correction: X-ray absorption near edge structure simulation of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2via first-principles calculation
Authors: Ohnuma Toshiharu , Kobayashi Takeshi
Published: January 2020

Correction for ‘X-ray absorption near edge structure simulation of LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2via first-principles calculation’ by Toshiharu Ohnuma et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 35655–35661.
How one-photon can induce water splitting into hydrogen peroxide and hydrogen by aluminum porphyrins. Rationale of the thermodynamics
Authors: Kuttassery Fazalurahman , Mathew Siby , Tachibana Hiroshi , Inoue Haruo
Published: January 2020

The thermodynamic correlation between the input energy by the one-photon excitation of aluminum porphyrin species (E00= 2.03 eV) and output energy for the splitting of two water molecules into H2O2and H2(2H2O → H2O2+ H2, ΔG= (3.54 eV)).
Geosynchronous SAR raw data simulator in presence of ionospheric scintillation using reverse backprojection
Authors: Ji Yifei , Dong Zhen , Zhang Yongsheng , Zhang Qilei , Sun Zaoyu , Li Dexin , Yu Lei
Published: January 2020

The future L‐band geosynchronous synthetic aperture radar (GEO SAR) system will be inevitably affected by ionospheric scintillation. Due to the lack of the real system, it is necessary to achieve the scintillation‐affected GEO SAR raw data for the research of influential mechanism and correction strategies. A method for the generation of scintillation‐affected GEO SAR raw data is proposed that utilises the reverse backprojection (ReBP) to efficiently and accurately modulate the scintillation transfer function on GEO SAR signals. A simulation experiment for a real SAR scene from one of the ALOS‐PALSAR observation is operated in case of the current inclined L‐band GEO SAR system configuration. The simulation takes less time by using the ReBP, compared with the existent method, and shows the speckle‐like phase error similar to the injected scintillation phase error, which validates the nice efficiency and accuracy of the proposed methodology.
Decision support system for optimal location of HIFDs in real distribution network using an integrated EPSO‐fuzzy AHP model
Authors: Khani Milad , Ghazi Reza , Nazari Behnam
Published: January 2020

Distribution overhead line network faults with the potential threats to public safety are of extreme importance. High‐impedance faults (HIFs) occur on distribution feeders with close proximity to the population. Advanced technology has enabled power distribution utilities to detect a high percentage of HIFs. However, the application of HIF detectors (HIFDs) should meet both operational and economic requirements due to expense and a large number of distribution feeders. Installation of these devices on overhead feeders among several candidate feeders seems to be a challenging issue. Therefore, ranking of feeders is essential for equipping them with HIFDs. This study proposes a practical approach which is an improved fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP), accompanied by a constrained non‐linear optimisation model to extract optimal crisp priorities from fuzzified inputs, considering various criteria with a degree of inconsistency in their real data. This improved integrated model is also able to adequately evaluate both qualitative and subjective parts of the location‐allocation problems. In this study, enhanced particle swarm optimisation (EPSO) is used to deal with the optimisation problem for criteria weight ratio and also finding the individual feeder preference weighting to optimally locate HIFDs in distribution feeders. The proposed model is applied on a real network and then sensitivity analysis is performed in the optimal solution.
Real‐time implementation of active shunt compensator with adaptive SRLMMN control technique for power quality improvement in the distribution system
Authors: Badoni Manoj , Singh Alka , Singh Bhim , Saxena Hemant
Published: January 2020

In this work, the development of sign regressor least mean mixed norm (SRLMMN) control technique for a distribution static compensator (D‐STATCOM) is presented. This control technique extracts fundamental weight components from the non‐sinusoidal load currents and generates reference grid currents. D‐STATCOM is developed for harmonics eradication, reactive power injection and load balancing and its performance is investigated in several operating modes. The performance of SRLMMN control is compared with recursive least square (RLS) and variable step least mean square (VSLMS) control techniques in terms of convergence, steady‐state error, harmonics elimination, sample time and computation complexity. The major advantages of SRLMMN control technique, are fast convergence, less steady‐state error, low total harmonic distortion (THD) and offers less computation complexity when compared with RLS and VSLMS. A laboratory‐scale prototype of compensator is realised using a voltage source converter with the controller implemented in the dSPACE‐MicroLabBox. Both MATLAB simulation and experimental results are included to demonstrate the performance of shunt compensator under steady‐state and dynamic loadings. The developed SRLMMN control technique mitigates power quality problems and effectively suppresses THD observed in the grid current with reference to IEEE Standard 519–2014.
pH‐responsive release of TiO2 nanotube arrays/mesoporous silica composite based on tannic acid‐Fe(III) complex coating
Authors: Zhang Fengfen , Xie Chunling , Xiao Xiufeng
Published: January 2020

In this work, TiO2 nanotube arrays/mesoporous silica composite coated with tannic acid‐Fe(III) complex was prepared with a simple drip coating method. The coating significantly inhibited the burst release in the early stage of drug release. The coordination conditions of the material were different under different pH values. This resulted in different stabilities of the coating, thus controlling the release of Loxoprofen Sodium (LS) at different pH values to construct a pH‐responsive drug delivery system. To demonstrate this principle, the authors loaded LS into the samples and triggered pH‐induced release. The excellent biological activity of the samples was confirmed in vitro by the significant growth and differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 osteoblastic cells. The data has shown that the samples had achieved intelligent control of drug release and would have a wide range of applications.
Antenna for microwave manipulation of NV colour centres
Authors: Zhao Man , Lin Qijing , Zhu Liangquan , Zhao Libo , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: January 2020

Nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) colour centres in diamond have attracted extensive attention in quantum precision measurement, computation and communication. In these fields, microwave manipulation is a technology in which antenna is used to radiate special microwave to manipulate the quantum spin state of NV colour centres. In this work, high frequency structure simulator software is used to design a microstrip antenna with a resonance frequency of 2.8756 GHz. Based on simulation and experiments, near field radiation of antenna is optimised to improve its microwave manipulation quality. This antenna will be helpful in the development of hybrid quantum devices of NV centres.
Placental Accumulation of Triacylglycerols in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Association with Altered Fetal Growth are Related to the Differential Expressions of Proteins of Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Balachandiran Manoharan , Bobby Zachariah , Dorairajan Gowri , Jacob Sajini Elizabeth , Gladwin Victorraj , Vinayagam Vickneshwaran , Packirisamy Rajaa Muthu
Published: January 2020

Introduction Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) exhibit altered placental lipid metabolism. The molecular basis of this altered metabolism is not clear. Altered placental expression of proteins of lipogenesis and fatty acid oxidation may be involved in the placental accumulation of triacylglycerols (TG). The present study was aimed at investigating the differential expressions of placental proteins related to lipid metabolism among GDM women in comparison with control pregnant women (CPW) and to correlate them with maternal and fetal lipid parameters as well as altered fetal growth.

Materials and Methods Maternal blood, cord blood, and placental samples were collected from GDM and CPW. The biochemical parameters, glucose, lipid profile and free fatty acids (FFA) were measured. The placental TG content was measured. Differential placental expressions of proteins; phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) p85α, PI3K p110α,liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), sterol regulatory element binding protein1(SREBP1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), stearyl CoA desaturase1 (SCD1), lipoprotein lipase (LPL),Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)α and PPARγ were analysed by western blotting and immunohistochemistry.

Results Placental protein expressions of PI3K p110α, LXRα, FAS, SCD1, and LPL were found to be significantly higher, whereas PPARα and PPARγ were lower in GDM women compared with CPW. The placental TG content and cord plasma FFA were increased in GDM women compared with CPW. The placental TG content positively correlated with Ponderal index of GDM new-borns.

Conclusion Differential expressions of placental proteins related to lipid metabolism in GDM might have led to placental TG accumulation. This might have contributed to the fetal overgrowth in GDM.
Formation of Perioesophageal Plexus Gulae and Anterior and Posterior Vagal Trunks in South Indian Population : A morphological study
Authors: Govindarajan Amudha
Published: January 2020

Background and Aim of the study: Vagus the wanderer is the tenth cranial nerve with long extra cranial course. Below the bifurcation of trachea, the right and left vagi form plexus around the oesophagus before they enter the abdomen as anterior and posterior vagal trunks. There are variations in the contribution by the right and left vagi for the formation of oesophageal plexus and according to Chamberlin and Winship there are three different patterns in the formation of peri oesophageal plexus. The present study was aimed to study the formation of perioesophageal plexus, incidence of different patterns of peri oesophageal plexus in south Iudian population and the number of vagal trunks formed from the oesophageal plexus in the lower end of the oesophagus. Materials and Methods : The formation of perioesophageal plexus Gulae was studied in forty four autopsy specimens of oesophagus and stomach and six foetal specimens at Institute of Anatomy, Madras Medical College, Chennai. Results : The formation of perioesophageal plexus and the number of fibres from the right and left vagus nerves which contribute to the plexus formation were studied. There were significant differences in the formation of plexus Gulae. There were variations in the pattern of perioesophageal plexus and the number of vagal trunks arising from the plexus. The results of the present study in South Indian population were compared with the results in the Western population. Conclusions : Awareness regarding the presence of plexus Gulae and number of vagal trunks related to lower end of oesophagus has considerable importance in the surgical repair of hiatus hernia and while treating atrial fibrillation.
Anatomy in the new era : perception of a cross section of anatomists
Authors: Das Hirak , Das Geeta , Kusre Giriraj , Pant Mahendra Kumar , Malhotra Varun , Sarma Santanu Kumar
Published: January 2020

Background and aims: Anatomy is one of the founding pillars of Medical Science. However, it has a poor preference as a career choice among the medical graduates. This can be attributed to the traditional concept in the minds of the people that it is a subject concerned mainly with cadaver dissection and teaching. This study is therefore aimed at understanding the general perception of anatomists about their subject and analyzing their suggestions for bringing about a positive change in attitude towards the subject. Materials and methods : A cross sectional study was conducted through a questionnaire that was completed by Anatomy faculty and postgraduate students from different parts of India. The study tried to understand the perspective of anatomists towards their subject and give some suggestions to bring about a change. Results : It was seen that Anatomy was the favorite basic science subject among most anatomists. Yet, most of them did not readily take it up as a career option. Participants also came up with various suggestions like the need to introduce superspeciality courses, more clinical application, systematization of research, promotion of fundings and the need to make Anatomy a part of Government's health education programmes. Conclusion : Anatomists across the country are wishing to have a more active role in the fast changing world. For this, anatomists need to come out of the traditional ways.
Importance of microstructure of lumbar pedicle in screw placement
Authors: Chawla Kunal , Sharma Mahesh , Abhaya Avinash , Kumar Ratesh , Singh Jyotsna
Published: January 2020

Background and objective : Any structural deviation of the pedicle may result in interference of the weight transmission mechanism and compression of neural structures. The aim of this study was to qualitatively investigate osteonal structures within the cortical bone and thickness of medial and lateral walls of lumbar pedicle. Materials and methods : Specimens consisted of L3 vertebrae from 20 adult cadavers (14 males and 6 females) belonging to North West Indian population. The pedicles of each specimen were cut off at the pedicle-vertebral body junction and processed for paraffin sections after decalcification. 8-10 µ thick transverse sections were cut with rotary microtome at middle of the pedicle. The sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Results : The mean cortical thickness on superior, inferior, medial and lateral was 1.3, 1.6, 0.8 and 0.6 mm respectively in males and 1.1, 1.3, 0.9 and 0.6 mm respectively in females. Cortical thickness was more on medial side compared to lateral side of the pedicle. The cortex of the inferior side of the pedicle was the thickest of all margins. The core of pedicle was filled up with irregularly placed bony trabaculae and marrow spaces. Conclusions : The section of pedicle resembled a shell with an outer cortex surrounding inner cancellous bone. The thickness of the cortical bone of pedicle was not homogeneous, being thicker on medial side compared to lateral side and cortical bone of the inferior side was thickest of all margins.
Spinabifida of atlas
Authors: K. Padmalatha , S. Prakash B , N. Balachandra , Y. Mamatha
Published: January 2020

During the routine osteology demonstration for the first year MBBS students, the authors came across the presence of incomplete posterior arch in one of the atlas. Congenital clefts and other developmental anomalies of the atlas are rarely encountered. They are incidental findings discovered while investigating the cervical spine following trauma. Differentiation of developmental variants of the atlas from the Burst fracture of Jefferson is essential to prevent unnecessary medical intervention. Posterior rnidline cleft of atlas/rachischisis/spinabifida occulta are well recognized and attributed to the defect/absent development of cartilaginous preformation of the arch and not to the disturbance of the ossification.
A gross morphological study of the pancreas in human cadavers
Authors: Sulochana S , Sivakami T
Published: January 2020

Background and aims : Normal variants and congenital anomalies of the pancreas and pancreatic duct are often detected as incidental findings. The current interest in the gross anatomy and the blood supply of the pancreas is based on recent developments in pancreatic surgery, particularly in limited resection of pancreas. The purpose of this study is to review the gross morphology of the pancreas, in South Indians, regarding the dimension and shape of the pancreas, the termination of main pancreatic duct and vascular pattern of head of the pancreas. Materials and methods : One hundred specimens of pancreas, procured from cadavers and autopsy cases from Thanjavur Medical College, Thanjavur, were carefully studied, and the data obtained were compared with similar reports available in the literature. Results: The mean length of the pancreas was found to be 16.38±2.38cm and the mean width of the head, neck, body and tail of pancreas were 5±0.78cm, 3±0.46cm, 3.7±0.56cm and 2.7±0.34cm respectively. Three different shapes of pancreas were found: oblique, inverted 'V' and sigmoid. Double anterior pancreatico duodenal arterial arcade was observed in 2% of specimens. Conclusion : Knowledge of normal anatomy of the pancreas and vascular pattern is essential for understanding the segmental resection of pancreas and in pancreas-sparing duodenectomy.
Gestational age estimation using transcerebellar diameter with grading of fetal cerebellar growth
Authors: Gupta Anirban Das , Banerjee Arindom , Rammurthy N , Revati P , Jose Josna , Karak P. , Kumar Anil
Published: January 2020

Background : The transverse cerebellar diameter (TCD) serves as a reliable predictor of gestational age (GA) of the fetus and is a standard against which aberrations in other fetal parameters can be compared, especially when the GA cannot be determined by the date of the last menstrual period or an early pregnancy scan. Aim : The aim of this study was to derive a regression equation and evaluate the relationship between transverse cerebellar diameter and gestational age, which will be helpful in assessing the fetal gestational age and also to evaluate the grades of cerebellum and to see its growth. Materials & methods : The prospective study was carried out in 292 pregnant women between 14-40 weeks of pregnancy attending the Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Foundation, Amalapuram for routine ultrasound examination. Transverse cerebellar diameter was measured and cerebellum was graded using ultrasonography. Results : Fetal cerebella were found to be in 29%, 10% and 61 % cases as grade I, II and III respectively. The grade changed from I to III progressively with advancing gestation. The median GA and TCD were 20 wks and 22 mm for grade I, 32 wks and 30 mm for grade II and 36 wks and 38 mm for grade III. Conclusion : Regression analysis indicated a strong relationship between TCD and gestational age indicating TCD is a good marker for estimation of gestational age.
Supra-scapular foramen in Indian dry scapulae
Authors: Jadhav S D , Patil R J , Roy P P , Ambali M P , Doshi M A , Desai Rajeev R
Published: January 2020

Background and aims : Supra-scapular notch is roofed by superior transverse scapular ligament and converted into a foramen which provides passage for suprascapular nerve. When it is completely ossified that time it manifest as supra-scapular foramen in dry scapulae. Variations of superior transverse scapular ligament include calcification, partial or complete ossification and multiple bands. Presence of this foramen in dry scapulae is considered to be rare. Aim of the study was to verify the prevalence of supra-scapular foramen in Indian dry scapulae. Materials and methods : A total of three fifty dry scapulae were analyzed (Right- 176, Left-174) to see the presence of supra-scapular foramen. Results : In the present study, suprascapular foramen was present in 25 right and in 12 left sided scapulae i.e., 10.57% incidence which is alarming. Conclusion : Present study demonstrates that suprascapular foramen which is the result of complete ossification of superior transverse scapular ligament, is common in Indian population. The anatomical knowledge of this foramen is of extreme importance for clinicians; it can be a risk factor during surgical explorations involving a suprascapular nerve decompression.
Bilateral syndactyly of both extremities in a new born - a case report
Authors: Rao N Ratnakar , Bhavani N
Published: January 2020

Syndactyly is a condition where in two or more digits are fused together. A newborn female baby showed not only webbing of the fingers but also toes. X-ray of both hands and feet showed no bony fusion. Syndactyly is a rare anomaly that has surgical and psychological implications. Normally mesenchyme between prospective digits in hand and foot plates is removed by cell death (apoptosis) when this process fails the result is fusion between two or more digits. It occurs as one in every 2000 to 2500 births and twice as common in males. Though it is very rare it can be corrected surgically and child can live a normal life. The knowledge of digit formation and causes for abnormalities in the digits and toes are important for radiologists, obstetricians and surgeons for accurate diagnostic interpretation.
Unilateral variations in the branching pattern of right external carotid artery- a case report
Authors: Savithri P
Published: January 2020

A case report of anomalous origin and branching pattern of right external carotid artery found during the dissection of human cadavers is reported here. Knowledge of anatomical variations of external carotid artery is especially important in head & neck surgeries. This knowledge is also important for radiologists in the image interpretation. In the case reported here, the right external carotid artery gave direct origin of one of dorsal lingual artery, two stylomastoid arteries, muscular artery and lymph nodal artery along with its normal eight branches. Generally the dorsal lingual arteries are two arising from lingual artery. Contrary to that, in this case the dorsal lingual arteries were found arising one from front of external carotid artery and other from lingual artery, and both these arteries communicated at 4mm beyond their origin. The two stylomastoid arteries arising directly from the front of external carotid artery 4mm above the facial artery were found arising with a gap of 2mm distance from one another. Muscular artery arose directly from the posterior aspect of external carotid artery opposite the anomalous dorsal lingual artery and descended downwards and forwards in its course giving small twigs to surrounding muscles . Lymph nodal artery arising just beside the muscular artery opposite to facial artery passed downwards and laterally and divided into two small twigs to supply a pair of lymph nodes. These lymph nodes are deep cervical nodes measuring about 5x5 mm in size hard in consistency on histopathological examination, found to be nonmalignant.
A study of inguinal hernia - on anatomical basis
Authors: Aravindhan K.
Published: January 2020

Background and objectives: Inguinal hernia is very common in males and the predetermination of type of inguinal hernia before surgery may be useful for the treatment plan. Various authors have attempted to classify the types of inguinal hernia based on several criteria. Various modes of classification for inguinal hernia have been described, but none of them seem to be complete, comprehensive and satisfactory because of some lacunae. The types, which are mentioned by some investigators have been turned down or disproved due to some pitfalls and they have been modified and refined. The existence of the spectrum of inguinal hernia with wide scope of divergence appears to be more heterogenous in expression. Hence, an attempt has been made to study the inguinal hernia - on anatomical basis. Materials & methods : One hundred South Indian male patients with definite inguinal hernia formed material for the study. Measurements were taken with strict aseptic precaution pre and post operatively by using a divider and a metal scale. Results: Out of 100 cases 89 were of indirect type and the remaining are direct type. They are further classified based on several other criteria which are followed by many authors. Conclusion : Even though several criteria are followed to subdivide the hernia into many subtypes, some lacunae were found and recommendations are given to rectify it.
Macrodactyly - a case report
Authors: Bilodi Arun Kumar S
Published: January 2020

A case of macrodctyly of thumb and index fingers in a female aged fourteen years is reported here. This subject was found to have abnormally large thumb and index fingers of her right hand. This case was also associated with suspected spina bifida occulta. Other fingers and toes were normal. This girl was a second child born to a consanguineous couple. The subject did not have any other anomaly. The macrodactyly of index as well as thumb in this case caused difficulty in carrying out day to day activities like writing, lifting heavy objects and also for using the hand to have food. Such cases may have some morphological and associated genetic importance.
Study of branching pattern of arch of aorta and its variations
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Haq Imtiazul , K. Kathiresan
Published: January 2020

Background and aims: Study of branching pattern of arch of aorta and its variation is very significant. This study helps in avoiding the surgical, accidental injuries of blood vessels during cardiovascular surgeries and radiological procedures. Present study is aimed at finding out the branching pattern of arch of aorta, variations of its incidence, clinical significance and to correlate its embryological basis. Materials and methods: Present study was conducted on 30 formalin fixed cadavers, which were allotted to the undergraduate students of Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. A comparative analysis was done with previous studies. Results: Usual three-branched aortic arch was found in 23 cadavers (76.66% ); variations were found in seven cadavers (23.33% ); 10% presented left vertebral artery arising directly from the arch of aorta; 6.66% presented common trunk of left vertebral artery and left subclavian artery; 3.33% presented thyroidea ima artery arising from the arch; 3.33% presented common trunk of brachiocephalic trunk and left common carotid artery. Conclusion: Variations observed in present study were in par with the variations observed by previous studies. Although anomalous origins of the aortic arch branches very rarely produces clinical symptoms but their knowledge is necessary for operating surgeons and interventional radiologist to avoid complications in the thorax, head and neck region.
Variation of hemiazygos vein with absence of accessory hemiazygos vein - a dissection study
Authors: Kalyankar Archana G. , Shingare Pravin H. , Kulkarni Pratima R.
Published: January 2020

Hemiazygos vein and Accessory hemiazygos vein lie on the left side in the posterior mediastinum of thorax and are the counterpart of azygos vein on right side. During routine cadaveric dissection of thoracic region in an adult male, we found an abnormal venous channel which was single and was lying on the left side of the vertebral column. It received tributaries from superior intercostal vein and posterior intercostal veins. We found this abnormal venous channel draining directly into left brachiocephalic vein in contrast to its usual drainage into azygos vein. Hence this can be considered as abnormal venous channel and variant of hemiazygos vein and accessory hemiazygos vein. The azygos and hemiazygos venous system is commonly encountered during surgical intervention performed on posterior thoracic wall. This case report provides a new data of potential clinical significance.
Variations in the origin of inferior thyroid artery and relation of the artery with recurrent laryngeal nerve
Authors: Chandrakala S. P. , Y. Mamatha , Thejaswini K. O.
Published: January 2020

Background and aim : Thyroid surgery being a major surgery & quite often performed, a thorough knowledge of variations in arterial supply is very essential for surgeons to prevent alarming number of table deaths in patients with thyroid disease due to excessive and uncontrollable bleeding . It also helps the physicians for proper physical examination and treatment of the patient and to the anatomists for learning the variant patterns. Materials & methods: Fifty five adult human cadavers(45 males,10 females)aged between 25 to 50 years and 25 foetuses (18 female,7 male) aged between 24 to 34 weeks were studied by gross dissection. Results: The inferior thyroid artery was found to be absent in 5% of cases. The level of branching of inferior thyroid artery was also studied where in 23.1 % of cases the artery divides before piercing the surgical capsule of thyroid gland and in 76.97%, it divided after piercing the surgical capsule.The relationship of the artery to the recurrent laryngeal nerve was also studied where in 52.6% of cases, either the artery or its branches were anterior to the nerve, in 26.3% of cases the artery or its branches were posterior to the recurrent laryngeal nerve and in 21.1 % of cases the nerve was intermingled with the branches of artery. Conclusion: From the present study it is concluded that the knowledge of variation of the arterial supply can be used during thyroidectomy where in ligation of all the thyroid vessels is highly essential to ensure proper homeostasis.
Retrocaval ureter - a case report
Authors: Chinnappan Margaret , Elangovan M.
Published: January 2020

Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly which has a incidence of occurence of one in 1500 live births. It is known to occur 2.8 times more commonly in males than females. While carrying out a study on congenital anomalies in urinary system in a collection of still born fetuses, a case of retrocaval ureter was noticed in a still born male foetus. In Retrocaval ureter, ureter is S shaped on the right side and a part of inferior vena cava is anterior to the proximal part of the ureter. Here the development of ureter is normal. Whereas the development of inferior vena cava is abnormal.
Sex and side determination of human hip bone by metric parameters of its posterior border
Authors: Margam Sarita R , Doshi Megha A , Jadhav Surekha D , Patil Raosaheb J , Ambali Manoj P
Published: January 2020

Background: Identification of sex from skeletal remains is of medico-legal and anthropological importance for forensic experts, anthropologists and anatomists. Hip bone is considered as an ideal bone for sex determination as it provides the highest accuracy levels for sex determination. Aims: To determine the sex and side of the human hip bones by using different metric parameters of posterior border of hip bone. Material and methods: In present study, 200 (100 males and 100 females) dried adult human hip bones of known sex were collected. Two parameters were studied and statistically analysed by paired and unpaired 't' test. Results: In males, distance from the posterior superior iliac spine to the superior border of ischial tuberosity was the discriminant criteria to sex the hip bones while in females, it was distance between the posterior inferior iliac spine (PITS) to ischial tuberosity (IT). Statistically significant difference between the mean related to side were seen in both the variables. Conclusion: These two parameters can be used for sexual dimorphism as well as side determination of human hip bones or its fragments.
Role of speech associated gestures of the teacher in Medical education a comparative study
Authors: Anu S , Babitha R , Muthukumaravel N
Published: January 2020

Background and aim: Gestures are generally hand or body movements that express the feelings and intentions. It's a universal feature of communication and is tightly timed with speech. Gesture and Speech combine to reveal meaning that is not fully captured in one modality alone, as they share a common neural relationship. Many earlier studies have revealed the importance of gestures in improving learning in school children. Studies on the role of gestures in improving the learning skill in medicine are scarce. This study was carried out to find out whether gesturing improved the learning outcome of medical students. Materials and methods: Ninety four students from first MBBS batch were recruited and randomized in to four groups A,B,C and D. Group A and B (Topic I (n=46)) consists of 23 students each, whereas group C and D (Topic II (n=48)) consists of 24 students each. Group A and C who were taught with gestures formed the study group; Group B and D taught without gestures acted as control. Two lectures on two different topics were taken for both the study and the control groups without any audiovisual aids for 20 minutes during tutorial time in the department of Physiology and the results were analyzed statistically using Wilcoxan Ranksum test. Result : Results of the study on two lecture topics showed that the scores of the students taught with gestures was higher with a p value of 0.005 and 0.0248 than those taught without gestures both immediately as well as a week after the lecture. Conclusion : Gestures do have a definite role in improving learning in medical students. Along with other teaching aids, gestures should also become an integral part of teaching.
The study of sexing of second metacarpal bone from Saurashtra region
Authors: Chudasama Jatin A. , Patel Mital M. , Lakhani Chintan J. , Javia Mayank D. , Dixit Daksha , Singel T. C.
Published: January 2020

Aim : The aim of the present study is to provide parameters of 2nd metacarpal bones for sex determination from Saurashtra populations. Material and method: Forty two pairs of 2nd metacarpal bones were measured and their dimensions were compared with the dimensions of Spanish and American white population. The mean, SD, t value and p value were calculated, and demarcating point method for sexual dimorphism was employed. Result : Mean interarticular length of 2nd metacarpal was higher in male as compared to female for both sides (right and left) and the difference was statistically highly significant. Mean anteroposterior width at base of 2nd metacarpal was higher in male as compared to female for both sides(right and left),but the difference was statistically insignificant for right side and statistically significant for left side. Conclusion: The present study showed that interarticular length and anteroposterior width at base of 2nd metacarpal are effective parameters for sex determination.