bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The use of amniotic membrane injection as an adjunct in endoscopic urethral stricture management
Authors: Pryde Nicholas , Vercnocke Jack , Lutchka Jonathan , Liaw Aron , Sessine Michael , Dhar Nivedita 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Endoscopic urethral stricture treatment has high recurrence rates. Due to research supporting amniotic membrane’s (AMs) anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic properties reducing scar tissue formation, AM has generated interest in reconstructive urethral surgery. To the best of our knowledge, we performed the first investigation of the success rate of urethral dilation when combined with micronized AM injection for the treatment of urethral stricture.

Methods:
Eligible patients were adult males with anterior strictures meeting strict criteria for diameter, length, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and flow rate. Micronized AM was injected in the stricture region during urethral dilation. The primary study endpoint was an anatomical success (≥14Fr) at 6 months. Secondary endpoints were evaluated with the IPSS, urethral stricture surgery – patient-related outcome measure, International Index of Erectile Function, flow rate, and postvoid residual. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and multiple points postinjection. Injection safety was analyzed.

Results:
Ten men with a mean age of 52 years were included in the study. At 6 months, 7 of 10 patients demonstrated recurrence of the urethral stricture on cystoscopy. Improvements in secondary endpoints were noted in 10 of 10 patients at 3 months and 3 of 10 patients at 6 months. No adverse events were observed.

Conclusions:
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating micronized AM injection as an adjunct treatment at the time of urethral dilation. The urethral stricture recurrence rate did not improve with the injection of AM despite the hypothesized benefits of anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Knowledge and Practice of Diagnostic Reference Levels, Radiation Protection, and Safety among Dental Professionals and Dental Undergraduate Students in the United Arab Emirates: A Multicentric Study
Authors: David Leena R. , Luke Alexander Maningat , Anithadevi TS , England Andrew , McEntee Mark , Ravichandran Sneha , Uthman Asmaa T , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Al-Bayatti Saad , Sukumar Suresh , Shetty Shishir Ram 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Dental radiographic examinations deliver low doses of radiation with low biological risks; however, low doses can lead to a cumulative risk. Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) indicate typical practice in a country or region. Surveys to establish DRLs can help acquire dose information, and less attention to DRLs can have consequences for the patient and dental workers. This study aims to determine the knowledge and practice of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety among dental professionals and dental undergraduate students in the United Arab Emirates.

Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was distributed among dental students, general dental practitioners, dental faculty, and radiographers from dental universities in the United Arab Emirates. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of radiation safety of 221 participants.

Results:
Among the surveyed respondents, 58 (26.2%) had a good level of knowledge, 94 (42.50%) had an average level, and 69 (31.2%) had a poor level. 30.3% of the respondents were aware of the DRLs in dental radiography. Only 10 survivors were able to accurately mention the national DRL for intraoral adult radiography. The level of knowledge is significantly associated with age (P < 0.0001), year of experience (P < 0.0001), and professional development courses (P = 0.024). Almost half had an average level of practice, 30.8% a good level and 22.6% a low level. The level of practice is influenced by age (P = 0.001), qualification (P = 0.034), and experience (P = 0.022).

Conclusions:
Knowledge of DRLs, radiation protection, and safety is adequate among the sample surveyed. However, translation of this knowledge into practice is lacking, which warrants the need for further training and enhancement of dental health-care workers.
Age- and Gender-Related Variations in Cortical Bone Density of the Mandible using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Central Indian Population
Authors: Hinagankar Tanvi , Patel Shraddha , Patel Aditya , Mohod Swapnil C , Reche Amit , Lohe Vidya 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
“A radiographic imaging technique called cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) enables precise three-dimensional (3D) visualization of hard tissue features. It is the most significant of the recently created dental diagnostic imaging modalities. There is, however, a lack of information on the correlation among mandibular cortical bone radiography density, including age and sex. Hence, the goal of this project was to use CBCT to estimate the cortical bone density of the mandible for age and sex variations in the population of central India.

Materials and Methods:
A retrospective research involving 300 patients was carried out. Patients arrived from the radiology and oral medicine divisions. The CBCT scans were divided into three age groups: those between the ages of 31–50, 51–70, and those older than 70.” The picture archiving and communication system was used to retrieve the images from the system. We determine the mandibular cortical bone radiography density on the CBCT using regions of interest.

Results:
The CBCT-measured cortical bone radiographic density was substantially linked by age. In addition, young males (1600 ± 129.63) had considerably higher cortical bone radiography density than young females (1366.95 ± 197.46), old men (1480.70 ± 189.59), and elderly females (962.38 ± 138.50).

Conclusion:
Mandibular cortical bone density is higher in males than females. Age-related alterations in the cortical bone of the jaw were examined using CBCT. In addition, CBCT analysis of the mandibular cortical bone could help recognize risk factors for declining bone mineral density. CBCT changes in the cortical bone of the mandible with aging. In addition, employing CBCT to assess the mandibular cortical bone could help identify risk factors for declining bone mineral density.
Competency Mapping of Key Stakeholders in Procurement and Contracting of the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program Goods and Services in an Eastern Indian State
Authors: Samal Janmejaya , Preetha G. S. , Mondal Arnab , Kumar R. Praveen 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
The National Tuberculosis Elimination Program is a complex program, and the program officers are involved in the procurement and contracting of goods and services under it. A competency mapping was conducted to highlight the current capacity gaps in contract management at state and district levels under the program.

Materials and Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted with 15 participants involved in procurement and contracting in two districts of the state using a semi-structured questionnaire, and results were presented using the descriptive statistical analysis.

Results:
A total of 15 different stakeholders from the National Health Mission, State and District Tuberculosis (TB) Cell, State TB Training and Demonstration Centre, and State Medical Corporation participated in the study. The participants had an average of 10.3 years of experience in contracting, and 20% of them had received some training on contracting. The capacity of these respondents varied based on their involvement, previous training (s) received, and technical background. It was further observed that most of the respondents suggested an in-person physical training instead of virtual training. Most of the respondents requested to issue training certificate. Some of the topics that the participants requested for further training include Digital Signature Certification, Government e-Marketplace, General Financial Rule, Public Financial Management System, monitoring of performance indicators, and bid evaluation techniques. Moreover, 92% of the respondents felt that there is a training need on procurement and contracting.

Conclusions:
Many a time, the program officers come from a technical background not relevant to the contracting and procurement of goods and services and require regular on-the-job support and training to aid in effective program delivery.
Evaluation of Preference toward Cone-beam Computed Tomography versus Orthopantomography among Various Specialty Dental Practices – A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Rajasekar A. Benjamin , Lakshmi Krithika Chandrasekar , Ganesan Anuradha , Sivakumar Sasidharan , Gauthaman Jeevitha 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim and Objectives:
In the recent years, the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dentistry has been consistently increasing. There is a need to evaluate the changing trend of preference and the purpose of its utilization. The purpose of this survey is to analyse the preference of OPG and CBCT among dentists in the Tamil Nadu population.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional online survey research using questionnaire was done. The survey provider used for the study is Google Forms. Twenty closed-ended e-questionnaires were created and were validated by five experts from different institutions on a 4-point Likert scale for clarity, comprehensibility, and appropriateness for the target group and for content validity. Internal validation was performed with n = 30, and Cronbach testing was good and reliable, with an alpha value of 0.85. The internal consistency was found to be good and acceptable. Chi-square analysis and Structural equation modeling (SEM) was performed in our study to simplify the complex domains using statistical procedures to explore the underlying dimensions and relationships between multiple variables in detail.

Results:
Our results showed that there was a statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05) acceptance of CBCT as an ideal diagnostic tool irrespective of the type of practice and the years of expertise. SEM showed that the oral medicine and surgery domains were more likely to prefer CBCT. The periodontal domain may be more likely to choose OPG over CBCT.

Conclusion:
At this point in time, although CBCT is preferred as an ideal diagnostic tool, most dentists opt for OPG over CBCT for diagnostic evaluation. It is recommended that dentists implement CBCT beyond OPG for diagnostic procedures for precise treatment outcome based on guidelines and patient preferences.
Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Strengthening Exercises in Females with Stress Urinary Incontinence – A Systematic Review
Authors: Tanwar Bharti , Rani Vandana , Chaturvedi Rekha , Kaur Jaspreet , Malik Manoj , Arora Garima , Singh Divya 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Urinary incontinence (UI) is an unpleasant and socially constrained disorder that affects one in three women. Stress UI (SUI) is the most prevalent type of UI and is identified in 50% of affected women. The main objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the updated literature exploring the effectiveness of pelvic floor strengthening exercises and their dosimetry in women with SUI.

Methods:
Randomized controlled trials published between January 2013 and February 2023 and in English were included in this review. Case reports, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and studies published in languages other than English were excluded from the study. Databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) were used to locate the literature. The quality of the data included was evaluated using PEDro scoring, and the risk of bias in the included studies was evaluated using RoB 2, a modified Cochrane risk-of-bias tool.

Results:
After screening, 12 studies were selected and included for qualitative analysis for the review. The findings of this review showed that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) exercises are an effective intervention for treating symptoms of SUI and improving quality of life whether used in combination or isolation. It is also suggested that a minimum of 12 supervised sessions of PFMT with a frequency of three times a week is suggestive to be an effective intervention and can be seen as a first line of treatment of SUI. It can be concluded that the PFMT is an effective intervention to treat the symptoms of SUI in females.

Registration and Protocol:
The systematic review applied for registration in PROSPERO but declined the registration because of an excessive inflow of trials that needed to be registered in PROSPERO as it was not accepting trials other than COVID-19 trials.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation of Anterolateral Ligament Tear in Association with Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear: A Review
Authors: Varma Amruta Dinesh , Dhande Rajasbala Pradeep , Mishra Gaurav Vedprakash , Pattabiraman Suhasini 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Anterolateral ligament evaluation on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a relatively recent topic, which has come into the limelight in the last decade. The objective of this review article is to study the association of anterolateral ligament tear in anterior cruciate ligament tear on 1.5 T MRI, which can aid in planning the reconstruction procedure.
Evaluation and Comparison of the Root Surface Microtopography Following the Use of Gracey Curettes, Piezo-ceramic Scalers, and Piezo-surgery Scalers: An In vitro Study
Authors: Padole Aparajita Yuvraj , Rathod Varsha , Rao Prajakta , Buva Kirti 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background:
Nonsurgical periodontal therapy plays a pivotal role in comprehensive periodontal treatment by effectively removing plaque and calculus through both supragingival and subgingival scaling and root surface debridement. This therapeutic approach encompasses methods aimed at curbing infection, restoring lost tissue integrity, and preserving a healthy periodontium. The ultimate objective of scaling and root planing (SRP) is realized through manual or power-driven scalers.

Objectives:
This study aims to assess and contrast the microtopography of root surfaces following in vitro SRP using the Gracey curette, Piezo-ceramic ultrasonic scaler, and Piezo-surgery ultrasonic scaler.

Materials and Methods:
A randomized in vitro investigation was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai. Thirty freshly extracted adult human single-rooted teeth, encompassing incisors, canines, and premolars were procured from the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery outpatient department. The teeth were categorized into three groups: Group A – Gracey curette 7/8 (n = 10), Group B – Piezo-ceramic ultrasonic scaler (Universal insert) (n = 10), and Group C – Piezo-surgery scaler PS1 (n = 10). The evaluation was conducted using electron scanning microscopy (ESEM) and confocal analysis post-SRP. Each tooth was sectioned longitudinally into mesial and distal halves, resulting in 20 samples per group. A demarcation line was established on the middle third of the root surface, distinguishing the test area (T) (coronal) from the control area (C) (apical). In the electron scanning microscopy (ESEM) analysis subset, a notch was created on the upper right corner below the cementoenamel junction in 10 samples from each group. The remaining samples (n = 10 from each group) were not notched for confocal microscopic analysis. Scanning Electron Microscopy analysis was conducted at the Indian Institute of Technology facility in Powai, Mumbai.

Results:
The overall findings indicated nonsignificant differences among the three groups in the t-test area when examined at × 500 using confocal microscopy and ESEM. However, at × 1000 using ESEM, Group C (Piezo-surgery scaler) exhibited a significantly greater mean surface roughness compared to Group A (Gracey curette) and Group B (Piezo-ceramic ultrasonic scaler) in the t-test area.

Conclusion:
The Piezo-surgery PS1 root planning tip yields the smoothest root surface following SRP, as indicated by the study’s outcomes.
Value of plasma alpha- and beta-synuclein levels in the diagnosis, severity, and functional outcome of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Fırtına Özge Başak , Salt Ömer , Sayhan Mustafa Burak , Dibirdik Ilker , Yucal Aykut 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:
We aimed to determine the role of plasma alpha- and beta-synuclein levels and other routine inflammatory parameters in the diagnosis, outcome, and mortality of acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

METHODS:
In our study, serum alpha- and beta-synuclein levels and clinical data were prospectively evaluated in 93 subjects (43 controls and 50 AIS patients) admitted to the emergency department. The outcome status and prognostic classification were performed according to the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores on the 30th day from hospital admission.

RESULTS:
The mean age of the subjects was 70.6 ± 11 years. Thirty-eight percentage were female. Plasma α-synuclein levels in the AIS group (33.6 ± 8.5 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those in the control group (4.22 ± 2.1 ng/mL) (P < 0.001). Plasma β-synuclein levels in the AIS group (13.07 ± 2.7 ng/mL) were significantly higher than those in the control group (2.17 ± 1.4 ng/mL) (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in alpha- and beta-synuclein levels between the subgroups formed according to the 30th-day results of the patients using the mRS scores (P = 0.813 and 0.812, respectively).

CONCLUSION:
The serum alpha- and beta-synuclein concentrations of patients with AIS at admission were significantly higher than the healthy control group. At admission, serum alpha- and beta-synuclein levels do not have definitive clinically predictive value in predicting stroke progression and outcome in patients with AIS.
Incidence and risk factors of acute mountain sickness during ascent to Hoh Xil and the physiological responses before and after acclimatization
Authors: Ouyang Qing , Yang Yuting , Zou Dongbo , Peng Yuping , Zhang Wenxin , Yang Yongjian , Ma Yuan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractOBJECTIVES:Ascending to altitudes >2500 m may lead to acute mountain sickness (AMS).METHODS:The demographics, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), smoking, and alcohol consumption of 104 healthy controls were collected in Chengdu (500 m). Heart rate (HR), saturation of pulse oxygen (SpO2), and AMS-related symptoms were collected in Hoh Xil (4200 m). A headache with Lake Louise score ≥3 was defined as AMS.RESULTS:The incidence of AMS was 60.58%. AMS group had a lower SpO2 and higher HR than non-AMS group. Alcohol consumption seemed a risk factor for AMS. There was no difference in the BMI, age, height, weight, and smoking between AMS and non-AMS groups. The most common AMS symptom was headache, followed by dyspnea, insomnia, dizziness, lassitude, and anorexia. Women were prone to suffer from dizziness. The value of SpO2 and HR was improved both in AMS and non-AMS groups after hypoxia acclimatization, and the value showed greater improvement in AMS group. Oxygen therapy decreased the AMS-induced tachycardia, which had no any effect on SpO2 and symptom alleviating time.CONCLUSION:Lower SpO2 and higher HR following exposure to high altitude were associated with AMS susceptibility. The anthropometric data changes were larger in AMS group than non-AMS group before and after hypoxia acclimatization.
Comparative analysis of Glasgow Coma Scale, quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment, base excess, and lactate for mortality prediction in critically ill emergency department patients
Authors: Meral Gürbüz , Ardıç Şenol , Günay Serkan , Güzel Kadir , Köse Ahmet , Durmuş Hülya Gençbay , Uysal Serhat , Coşkun Aydın 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVES:
It is crucial to promptly identify high-mortality patients in emergency departments and initiate their treatment as soon as possible. Although many parameters have been studied to select patients with high mortality, no comprehensive evaluation exists in previous literature on these parameters in critically ill patients, regardless of patient groups. The aim of this study is to evaluate the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA), blood gas base excess (BE), and blood gas lactate in predicting mortality in critically ill patients admitted to the emergency department.

METHODS:
This prospective observational cohort study included adult patients with Emergency Severity Index 1–2 (critically ill) admitted to the emergency department. All patients were evaluated by the physician within 10 min, and blood gas samples were taken. The data collection forms recorded the patients’ GCS and qSOFA scores at the time of first evaluation by the physician. The qSOFA score assessment was performed in all patients with ESI levels 1 and 2, regardless of whether infective pathology was suspected. Blood gas BE and lactate values were also from laboratory test results. Patients or their relatives were contacted by phone at the end of the 1st month to obtain information about the clinical condition (survival or mortality).

RESULTS:
A total of 868 patients were included, with 163 deaths observed within 30 days. GCS score, qSOFA score, and lactate value were significant in predicting mortality within 30 days. While the BE value was significant for predicting 30-day mortality for values equal to or below the lower limit of −1.5 (P < 0.001), it was not significant for values equal to or above the upper limit of +3 (P > 0.05). The most successful prediction model for predicting 30-day mortality was found to be qSOFA with a cutoff value of ≥1.

CONCLUSION:
In emergency departments, each of the GCS, qSOFA scores, BE, and lactate values can be used independently as a practical mortality prediction model in critically ill patients. Among these four models, qSOFA is the most successful practical mortality prediction model in critically ill patients.
The Application of Culturomics to Explore African Skin Microbiota
Authors: Ndiaye Codou , Bassene Hubert , Fonkou Maxime Descartes Mbogning , Fenollar Florence , Lagier Jean Christophe , Raoult Didier , Sokhna Cheikh 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT.
Over the past 12 years, culturomics, a high-throughput culture method, has been developed, considerably widening the repertoire of known cultured bacteria. An exhaustive database, including a list of microbes isolated by culture from human skin, was recently established by performing a review of the literature. The aim of the present study was to use the culturomics approach to explore the African skin microbiota. Skin swabs from the palms of human hands were collected between January and December 2016 from healthy subjects from the villages of Dielmo and Ndiop in rural Senegal. Three culture media were selected for the isolation of bacteria in aerobic conditions. Bacterial colonies were subjected to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectroscopy and the 16 S rRNA gene was sequenced for unidentified colonies. A total of 176 bacterial species were isolated. This increased the repertoire of bacterial species on the skin by 14.0%, by adding 71 bacteria, including seven new species. The culturomics approach characterizing microbial diversity has significantly changed our view of the skin microbiota, raising many important questions about the host-microorganism relationship and its relevance to skin diseases. In particular, the difference between the palm microbiota of these African populations (composed mainly of the genera Staphylococcus, Arthrobacter, Bacillus, and Microbacterium) and that of Western populations, whose main genera are Staphylococcus, Propionibacterium, Micrococcus, Corynebacterium, Enhydrobacter, and Streptococcus. This study demonstrates the need to continue to explore the skin microbiome using the culturomics approach