bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Plantar Fascia Thickness Difference Between Pregnant and Nulliparous in Indonesia
Authors: Foraldy Jeffry , Jehosua Seilly , Momole Ansye , Tumewah Rizal , Runtuwene Theresia , Wariki Windy Mariane Virenia 
Published: November 2024

Background:
Pregnancy is associated with distinct risks of fascia thickness compared to nulliparous. Therefore, this study aimed to compare plantar fascia thickness between asymptomatic pregnant women and nulliparous, evaluating the relationship with age, body mass index (BMI), arch height index (AHI), gestational age, and number of pregnancies.

Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted between January and March 2023, and subjects were through a simple random sampling method. The inclusion criteria were subjects aged 18–35 years old, while those with a history of foot pain, trauma, surgery, special orthosis during pregnancy, and other complications were excluded. Fascia thickness was measured at 10 mm distal from the insertion in the calcaneus. Age, BMI, AHI, gestational age, and pregnancy history were recorded. Student’s t-tests were used to compare both groups.

Results:
The average plantar fascia thickness in pregnant women was 2.67 ± 0.44 mm in both feet, while in nulliparous, it was 2.24 ± 0.41 mm and 2.26 ± 0.37 mm in the right and left foot, respectively. A significant difference was observed between the two groups based on BMI category (P < 0.05). Women who had experienced more than one pregnancy showed thicker fascia (P < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, BMI (B coefficient: 0.029–0.031, P < 0.05) and number of pregnancies (0.268–0.267, P < 0.05) had a significant effect on plantar fascia thickness in pregnant women, while age and BMI affected nulliparous.

Conclusion:
Pregnant women had thicker plantar fascia compared to nulliparous. Consequently, screening and prevention in pregnant women and multiparous was necessary to prevent the occurrence of plantar fasciitis.
Earwax–cerumen genetics and physiology: Current insights and long-term implications
Authors: Ballachanda Bopanna B. , Poojar Basavaraj 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Earwax, also known as cerumen, is produced by secretions from the apocrine and sebaceous glands located in the outer third of the cartilaginous part of the ear canal. Ear wax or cerumen is an omnipresent substance found in every individual. It protects from infections and other ailments to the outer and middle ear. The production and extrusion of this substance go unnoticed in most individuals. However, it assumes significance when it accumulates in the ear canal, prompting concern among audiologists, ENT physicians, and dermatologists. In addition, the lack of earwax in children due to practice of aquatic sports can facilitate chronic ear infections. Recently, several researchers have identified the genetic basis of this secretion to other secretions and have unearthed genetic connections to a few human disorders. The chemical makeup of earwax plays a more prominent role apart from being a bodily secretion in the ear canal. So could earwax, or cerumen, potentially serve as a biomarker for various medical conditions? This potential breakthrough, which is the central focus of this study, is not just a question but a discovery that is bound to spark your curiosity and interest. The idea of earwax, an often-overlooked substance, holding such potential provides exciting prospects.
Indicators of late help-seeking tendencies of parents of children with hearing loss in India
Authors: Indira C. P. , Maruthy Sandeep 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
The average age of identification of pediatric hearing loss in India is between 1.5 and 4 years. This delay is attributed to the absence of universal newborn hearing screening programs and reliance only on parent’s help-seeking behavior (HSB) for suspicion and identification of hearing loss. Several factors influence the parents’ hearing help-seeking behavior. This study assessed whether some of the demographic details (which are also potential influencing factors) available to the medical doctor can help predict the help-seeking tendencies of parents.

Materials and Methods:
A questionnaire was used to collect information related to eleven different demographic factors and the age of identification of hearing loss from 384 parents of children with hearing loss. The cohort was divided into early and late help-seekers based on the age of identification. Chi-square analysis was used to identify the factors associated with the age of identification, and logistic regression was used to identify the factors that can predict age of identification.

Results:
Nine out of eleven factors assessed showed a significant association with the help-seeking tendencies of parents. However, only the status of newborn hearing screening, geographical location, and degree of hearing loss were significant predictors of late help-seeking tendencies.

Conclusion:
Improving help-seeking tendencies by modifying the associated factors can reduce the age of identification of hearing loss by about 2 years. Therefore, healthcare professionals could use the predictive variables to judge the help-seeking tendencies of parents and accordingly offer targeted counseling and follow-up to ensure early identification.
Vocal fatigue in speech-language pathologists: An enquiry using Vocal Fatigue Index-version 2 (VFI-2)
Authors: Mavis Erica , Yeshoda Krishna 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Purpose:
The present study aimed at exploring the symptoms of vocal fatigue (VF) using the Vocal Fatigue Index-version 2 (VFI-2) in working speech-language pathologists (SLPs) across different setups.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 82 SLPs were categorized based on the setup they were working in as academic institutions (11 males and 11 females), hospitals (13 males and 15 females), and private clinical setups (10 males and 22 females). VFI-2 was administered to all the participants who rated their symptoms of VF as indicated in the VFI-2 protocol. Later, the scores of each factor were compiled separately and subjected to statistical analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software.

Results:
The results revealed that females had scores closer to the cut-offs than males for factors 1 and 2 and were at risk for developing VF-like symptoms compared with males. The setup-wise comparison showed statistical significance in females and further post hoc analysis and the pair-wise comparison showed that female participants in one group that is academic institutions and private clinics were statistically significant. This indicated that female SLPs working in academic setups were at a greater risk for VF than female SLPs in other setups.

Conclusion:
This study concludes that though the SLPs reported symptoms related to VF, it was not significant across all setups. However, there was a significant relationship between hours of voice use and VF. The present study was a preliminary attempt to understand VF in SLPs.
Motivation to enroll in speech and hearing training programs in India: A follow-up study
Authors: Lokheshwar Shanmugasundaram , Lokheshwar Anu , Kumar Suman , Jayaram Mannarukrishnaiah 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This study follows up on Lokheshwar et al, exploring the motivational factors that drive students to pursue professional training in speech and hearing. Responses were collected from 276 students enrolled in various stages of the Bachelor in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology program via a Google Form. An open-ended questionnaire was used to gather information about students’ awareness of the speech and hearing field, including when and how they learned about it. Students identified factors such as the “unique nature of the field,” “opportunities to help individuals with communication disorders,” and the “broad scope of the field” as key motivations for enrolling in the program. The findings suggest that an open-ended questionnaire may provide a more accurate reflection of students’ motivations compared to a closed set of questions, which can influence responses. The study highlights the need for institutions and administrators to enhance their outreach efforts, particularly via digital and social media.
Perception of Dental Interns About Intracanal Fracture of Endodontic Instruments in the Central Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Aloyouni Abdullah Ahmad A. , Agwan Muhammad Atif Saleem , Almuzaini Saleh Suliman S. , Alqazlan Faris Saleh A. , Alshumaym Abdulaziz Abdulrhman A. , Alfuryah Khalid Abdullah G. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT

Objective:
This study assessed the perceptions among dental interns regarding intracanal fracture of endodontic instruments.

Methodology:
This cross-sectional observational study was performed among 206 dental interns working in Saudi Arabia. A validated questionnaire encompassing 15 close-ended questions was used. The questionnaire consisted of two components: the first component (Section I) gathered demographic details, and the second part (Section II) examined the causes of EFS during root canal treatment. A Pearson’s Chi-square test was applied to determine the association of perceptions of EFS during endodontic procedures between male and female interns.

Results:
The study findings showed that out of 206 dental interns, 107 (51.9%) were males and 99 (48.1%) were females. The perceptions regarding intracanal instrument fracture revealed that hand files (71 (34.5%)) were less likely to break than rotary files (132 (64.1%)). Around 152 (73.8%) respondents said that stainless steel was the most frequently broken alloy. Moreover, there was a significant relationship between gender and the belief that operator expertise plays a role in preventing instrument fracture.

Conclusion:
This study concluded that dental interns were aware of factors contributing to file separation during endodontic treatment. They believed fractures were more common in the apical third of posterior teeth, preferred Nickel Titanium for instruments, and thought hand files were less prone to fracture than rotary files.
To Estimate the Prevalence of Peyronie’s Disease and to Study the Effectiveness of Intralesional Verapamil in Resolution of Plaque of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Pokhariya Brij Mohan Singh , Bhandari Paras 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
Peyronie’s disease is a connective tissue disorder, characterized by the formation of a fibrotic lesion or plaque in the tunica albuginea, which leads to penile deformity. The true prevalence of Peyronie’s disease is unknown. An evaluation of existing epidemiological data on Peyronie’s disease revealed a prevalence rate of 3.2%. Verapamil effectiveness is predicted on its ability to affect fibroblast function at multiple levels, including cell proliferation, extracellular matrix protein synthesis and secretion, and collagen breakdown. Calcium antagonists may thus have the potential to reduce, halt, or even reverse plaque formation and disease progression.

Materials and Methods:
A prospective study was conducted on patients who attended the Surgery Outpatient Department of R. M. L Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, with the diagnosis of Peyronie’s disease in 2 years (2020–2022) with a sample size of 50 patients.

Results:
Intralesional verapamil injection therapy resulted in the reduction of pain in 88% of cases, reduction of plaque size in 75%–80% of cases, reduction of penile curvature in 70%–75% of cases, and improvement in erectile dysfunction in 50%–55% of cases.

Conclusions:
In our study , it was found that intralesional varapamil therapy causes significant reduction in pain during erection, penile curvature, plaque size and improvement in erectile dysfunction in Peyronie’s disease.
Topical Diltiazem versus Topical Sucralfate and Lignocaine in the Treatment of Chronic Fissure in Ano: A Prospective Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Sundaresan Vinoth , Sadayappan Vinothkumar , Rajendiran R Kannan , Aroul T Tirou 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
Chronic anal fissure is the most prevalent anorectal disorder, characterized by linear or oval ulcers in the anal canal’s squamous epithelium. Although lateral sphincterotomy stands as the gold standard for treatment, chemical sphincterotomy with calcium channel blockers, nitrates, and botulinum toxins is favored in the initial stages to avoid surgical side effects.

Aim and Objectives:
The goal is to assess the efficacy of topical diltiazem in treating chronic fissure in ano, particularly its impact on pain, bleeding, discharge, recurrence rates, and healing compared to the lignocaine–sucralfate combination.

Materials and Methods:
A prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted at Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry, from October 2014 to April 2016, involving 100 cases. Subjects were divided into two groups: Group A received topical 2% diltiazem and Group B was treated with 2% lignocaine and 7% sucralfate. Both groups followed a regimen including a high-fiber diet, sitz baths, and laxatives, with follow-ups at 2, 4, 6 weeks, and 6 months to evaluate treatment outcomes.

Results:
Significant improvements were noted in Group A, with pain reduction from a mean of 6.48 to 0.48 by the 6th week. Both groups saw enhanced healing rates and reductions in symptoms, with Group A exhibiting a lower recurrence rate, indicating the superior efficacy of 2% diltiazem.

Conclusion:
Topical 2% diltiazem is more effective in treating chronic anal fissure than the combination of 2% lidocaine gel and 7% sucralfate, offering better pain management, healing rates, and lower recurrence, making it a preferred treatment option.
Revisiting the Existing Grading Systems of Glenohumeral Joint Arthropathy and Proposing a Modified Classification
Authors: Mishra Abhishek Kumar , Kushwaha Sudhir , Charmode Sundip Hemant , Chauhan Vishwa 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the glenohumeral joint may affect up to 20% of the elderly population. The glenohumeral joint OA is classified in several ways based on different criteria. The notable ones include the Samilson and Prieto classification, Modified Samilson and Prieto classification by Allain, Modified Samilson and Prieto classification by Gerber, Guyette classification, and Kellgren and Lawrence classification. Through this letter, the authors wish to bring it to esteemed editors that a more comprehensive radiological classification is needed to study and categorize the patient and to predict the severity of glenohumeral arthritis. We suggest that X-ray views in anatomical position as well as 45° external rotation and 45° internal rotation will be best suited to plain radiographic classification, which is needed to classify glenohumeral arthritis.
Estimation of Mid-trimester Transvaginal Cervical Length and Its Implications as Predictor of Preterm Birth: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Sharma Pooja , Lall Pratistha , Gupta Sanjaya Kumar , Biswas Jayanta Kumar 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective:
The length of the cervix in mid-pregnancy relates to the chance of preterm delivery; and preterm labor and birth cause a major burden to society in view of high perinatal morbidities and mortality with long-term implications. With this background, we aim to measure the implications of cervical length (CL) in mid-trimester for predicting preterm birth.

Materials and Methods:
A prospective observational study was conducted to compare the CL measurement at 18–22 weeks of gestation, to correlate the measurements with gestational age at delivery, and to compare the predictive value of the same for preterm delivery over 18 months on 100 cases.

Results:
The mean CL was 38.4 ± 9.1 (22.6–54.4) mm. No significant association of transvaginal CL was found with age. Most patients experienced term vaginal birth with significant association of CL was found with pregnancy outcome. Among preterm deliveries, the CL was shorter, but no significant association of CL was found with the type of delivery. Moreover, optimum cutoff CL (35.55 mm) had very high predictive values with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 62.8%, and diagnostic accuracy of 65.0%.

Conclusion:
Our study has added more evidence that shorter CL at 18–22 weeks of gestation was a direct predictor of spontaneous preterm birth and risky outcomes of pregnancy.
Impact of Role Models on Medical Students
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Role modeling plays an important role in the theoretical and practical background of medical education. The vital function of role modeling includes humanism and professionalism in medical education. The use of teaching faculties as role models for professional aspects of medical students is a need of the hour. The transformation of medical students to medical professionals is an important core competency needed for becoming expert clinicians in the current century. Role modeling is a key method for transmitting this professional skill among medical students. The professionalism of medical students is best learned through role models. The National Medical Commission in India is developing medical curriculum which ensures the students for development of professional competency and understanding values in medical education. The most important qualities in role models are a positive attitude toward junior colleagues, compassion for patients, and integrity. Students assess their clinical teachers not only on their clinical or practical skills but also on their soft skills. Role models facilitate the learning of the medical students and assist in the development of professional identity. However, social organization and cultural values influence the choice of role models. Excellence in role modeling entails the demonstration of excellent patient care, teaching skills, and personal values/characteristics. The aim of this review is to discuss on the student perception of professionalism with role models in medical school.
Cardiac Profile in Patients with Snake Envenomation and Its Complications: A Retrospective Study from a Tertiary Care Center in South India
Authors: Mandal Amit , Iyyadurai Ramya 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background:
Snakebites continue to be a major public health concern throughout the world, and more in tropical countries. Cardiac implications are poorly understood due to the low frequency of cardiotoxicity combined with a lack of robust information.

Aims:
We aim to study the cardiac profile, complications in snake bite patients requiring admission in a medical unit.

Materials and Methods:
This retrospective study was conducted carried out from 01/05/2016 to 01/05/2021. The data was extracted from the inpatient medical records and it was analyzed. All adult patients requiring admission in a Medicine unit with a diagnosis of snake envenomation were included. Descriptive statistics were obtained for all variables in the study and appropriate statistical tests were employed to ascertain the significance.

Result:
The cohort consists of 80 patients with 45(56.3%) males and aged 40.06 ± 15.24 years (mean, SD). The majority of the Snake species identification was not available 38(47.5%). Viper bite was the commonest bite 32 (40%). The commonest clinical presentation was hemotoxic 33 (31.3%) followed by neurotoxic 16(20%). Electrocardiogram abnormalities were seen in 23 (28.7%) patients and commonest abnormality noted was sinus tachycardia 34(42.5%) of cases. 69 (86%) patients had cellulitis and 16(20%) had acute kidney injury (AKI). Twenty-four (30%) required intensive care monitoring, 22 (27.5%) required mechanical ventilation and 7 (8.8%) patients required hemodialysis. The mean ± SD duration of hospital stay was of 5.56 ± 3.76 days. The median direct cost was Rs 19714.5 and cost on medicine was Rs 10798. The mortality in this cohort was 4(5%).

Conclusion:
Snake bite causes significant morbidity. Viper bite was the commonest bite in our study. The mortality in this cohort was 4(5%). Cardiac toxicity is a clearly defined toxicity following snake bite envenomation however it has no effect on mortality.
Retinal dysfunction finding after uneventful cataract surgery with extended depth-of-focus intraocular lens
Authors: Marques Frederico França , Bufarah Guilherme , Marques Daniela Meira Villano , Moscovici Bernardo Kaplan , Gama Daniel Diniz Da , Watanabe Sung Eun Song , Junior Octaviano Magalhaes 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
This article describes a patient whose underlying retinal condition, with dysfunction demonstrated by full-field and multifocal electroretinograms, was diagnosed after uneventful phacoemulsification with extended depth-of-focus intraocular lens implantation.
Darkening vistas: Central retinal artery occlusion post-Arnold Chiari 1 surgery in prone position
Authors: Shrinkhal  , Keelara Arun Gowda , Suman Arvind Kumar , Singh Suyash , Mishra Brijesh Kumar , Banerjee Nilakshi , Kumar Akshay 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Post-operative vision loss (POVL) following spine surgery in the prone position is rare but has been documented. Various pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed as potential causes, with associated risk factors identified. This article documents an interesting case of a patient who presented with Chiari 1 malformation and developed central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) postoperatively. We present the case of a 27-year-old male who underwent foramen magnum decompression with C1–C2 fusion for Chiari I malformation, and experienced sudden vision loss in his left eye postoperatively, attributed to CRAO. Despite stable vital signs and minimal blood loss during surgery, the patient developed CRAO after awakening from anesthesia. Prompt treatment was initiated, resulting in partial recovery of vision. However, challenges in treating CRAO persisted, highlighting the importance of meticulous patient positioning during prone surgeries to prevent such complications. Early detection and intervention are crucial for the potential reversibility of visual loss.
Doughnut-shaped amniotic membrane transplantation in pediatric simple limbal epithelial transplantation after ocular chemical injury
Authors: Ortiz-Morales Gustavo , Moll-Auais Reinaldo A. , Hernandez-Camarena Julio C. , Paez-Garza J. Homar , Rodriguez-Garcia Alejandro 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Children of any age are at high risk for ocular chemical injuries and the development of limbal stem cell deficiency with severe visual consequences. Surgical options for ocular surface reconstruction at the pediatric age tend to have lower success rates than their adult counterparts. Herein, we report the results of a novel modification of the simple limbal stem cell epithelial transplantation using a doughnut-shaped amniotic membrane graft to avoid further visual axis obstruction during re-epithelization. Since younger children are a highly susceptible population suffering from chemical burns, with nearly half of them being at preschool (first months of life to 5 years) ages, such a technique may be more appropriate to reduce the time of visual obstruction and obtain faster visual rehabilitation.