bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Leprosy in Children with a Focus on the Asian Region: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sharma Apoorva , Meghana K. B. , Narang Tarun , Dogra Sunil 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Children are often more susceptible to contracting Mycobacterium leprae infection because of their immature immunity as well as their exposure to intrafamily interactions. The percentage of children among newly identified leprosy cases serves as a robust indicator of the ongoing transmission of the disease. Globally, the number of new cases fell by 19.3% between 2013 and 2022. A reduction of over 50% in the incidence of leprosy among children was seen, with rates declining from 10.4 cases per million children in 2013 to 5.1 per million in 2022. Children may exhibit atypical clinical symptoms, and the clinical presentation of leprosy in children can often be misdiagnosed as differential diagnoses such as pityriasis alba, nevus depigmentosus, pityriasis versicolor, among others, contributing to diagnostic difficulties. The cultural stigma surrounding leprosy may also discourage parents from seeking medical help promptly, prolonging the time to diagnosis. Furthermore, health-care systems in some regions may lack adequate training or resources for diagnosing pediatric leprosy. These challenges underscore the importance of increased awareness, early detection, and improved health-care infrastructure to effectively diagnose and treat leprosy in children. Stakeholders must give top priority in policy making and interventions to lower the prevalence of leprosy and its consequences in children and adolescents. The present article is an attempt to review the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic dimensions of childhood leprosy cases in Asia.
Evaluation of Effect of Septilin™ and Calcium Hydroxide Intracanal Medicaments on Interappointment Flare-up and Healing of Apical Periodontitis-Pilot Study
Authors: Kadam Aishwarya , Mulay Sanjyot , Tandale Anita , Beri Lotika , Krishnakumar Karishma , Bhawalkar Abhilasha 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Endodontic microflora comprises of multispecies, hence no single intracanal medicament can disinfect the root canal completely. Newer herbal medicaments need to be researched which may be more effective. Hence there was a need to evaluate and compare the effect of Septilin and calcium hydroxide intracanal medicaments on interappointment flare up and healing in apical periodontitis.

Aim and objective:
To evaluate and compare the effect ofcalcium hydroxide and septilin intracanal medicaments in interappointment flare up and periapical healing.

Materials and Methods:
Thirty patients with periapical lesions in the anterior region of jaw were selected. Intracanal medicaments were inserted as Group I -Calcium hydroxide(n=15) and Group IISeptilinTM (n=15). After 7 days the intracanal medicament was changed and obturation done after 15 days. Patients were evaluated clinically for VRS pain score at 1&2 weeks and 1, 3 and 6 months. Radiographic evaluation using PAI index was done by two trained observers at interval of 1, 3 and 6 months.

Results:
showed no incidence of flare up. After three months there was significant change in the PAI score. At 6 months, 20% of calcium hydroxide group whereas 13.33% of SeptilinTM group had PAI score of 1.

Conclusion:
At 3 months the periapical healing in both groups was similar. At 6 months Calcium hydroxide group showed better healing as compared to SeptilinTM group.
Improving Drug- and Disease-related Knowledge of Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Randomized Controlled Trial from a Sri Lankan Outpatient Clinic
Authors: Wickramasinghe Dilmi , Lynch Catherine , Coombes Judith , Jayamanne Shaluka , De Silva Shamila 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:
During past decades, the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) has increased significantly. Individuals with CKD are on complex drug regimens. Enhancing patients’ disease and medication knowledge can be achieved by pharmacist-conducted patient education.

Aims:
This study aimed to assess disease-specific knowledge changes in patients with stage 4 or 5 CKD after providing patient education.

Settings and Design:
A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted at an outpatient renal clinic, Teaching Hospital, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

Subjects and Methods:
The clinic admission register was used as the sampling frame. Patient consent was obtained, and demographic data were collected at commencement. Four counseling sessions were provided to the intervention group (IG) by “clinic-based pharmacist,” at commencement, and 2, 6, and 10 months, post-recruitment. The control group (CG) received usual care. A validated “drug and disease knowledge questionnaire” was interviewer administered to both groups at 6 months and a “drug and disease information booklet” was provided to IG. The same questionnaire was readministered at 12 months to reassess disease-specific knowledge. CG received an education booklet at 12 months.

Statistical Analysis Used:
The Mann–Whitney U test was used to analyze initial and 12 months in-between group data. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze initial and 12-month data within CG and IG.

Results:
One hundred patients were enrolled in CG and 101 in IG. The demographic profile of the two groups was broadly similar. Median drug and disease knowledge questionnaire scores were similar at 6 months at 23.00 (19.25–26.00) in CG and 24.00 (20.00–27.00) in IG (P > 0.05). At 12-month scores were 22.00 (18.00–25.50) in CG compared to 35.00 (31.00–37.00) in IG (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:
The provision of medication counseling and a “drug and disease information booklet” is beneficial in improving disease-specific knowledge in patients with CKD.
Formulation and Evaluation of Solid Dispersion of Felodipine by Hot Melt Extrusion for Enhancement of Solubility
Authors: Nijhawan Monika , Sirisha Neerude , Bhavana Jidige , Neelima Rambakka , Aleti Rajeswari , Sailaja Gunnam , Srikrishna M. R. 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Felodipine (BCS Class II) undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism with bioavailability of about 15% that creates problem in therapeutic efficacy after oral administration.

Objective:
Immediate release formulation of felodipine was developed using hot-melt extrusion (HME) technique in an attempt to improve solubility and dissolution of felodipine through the solid dispersion technique.

Materials and Methods:
The solid dispersion was prepared using Eudragit EPO, NE30D as a carrier with different drug polymer ratios using the HME technique. The optimized batch was made into tablets. The solid dispersion was characterized by solubility studies, drug content, and in vitro dissolution rate studies.

Results:
From the cumulative dissolution profile, it was observed that the drug and Eudragit EPO alone have the highest percentage of drug release compared to the other combinations of drug and Eudragit EPO, NE30D. It is also evident from the dissolution profile that with increase in the concentration of Eudragit NE30D, there is a decrease in the dissolution rate. There was a significant decrease in drug release even with increase in stabilizer in a smaller ratio. The dissolution profile showed that there is not much variation in the release profile of the solid dispersion alone and the solid dispersion tablets.

Conclusions:
Solid dispersion by the HME technique is an effective method to increase the dissolution rate of felodipine.
Knowledge and Attitudes of Saudi People Regarding Leukemia: A Cross-sectional Study Conducted in the Northern Border Region
Authors: Khaled Hayet Ben , Alrwily Afnan Abdalluh , Abdulla Dalia A. , Rikabi Hind A. , Somroo Samreen 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:
Leukemia is considered an important public health problem in Saudi Arabia for its impact on causing deaths among young people. Thus, the study’s objectives are to ascertain Saudi citizens’ degree of leukemia awareness and understanding as well as their attitudes on leukemia screening.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted during 2 months in the Northern Borders Region of Saudi Arabia on a random sample comprised of 373 Saudi people, using electronic questionnaire in Arabic language specially designed for the research purpose. The data obtained were analyzed in terms of the study using descriptive statistics by SPSS program.

Results:
The mean score for having good understanding about leukemia, according to the survey, was 51%. The average person’s understanding of leukemia and its symptoms was 48%, while the average person’s knowledge of the disease’s risk factors was 47%. Furthermore, the mean score for positive attitudes about leukemia screening was 70%, and the mean score for having adequate information about leukemia diagnosis and treatment was 57%.

Conclusion:
Saudi residents in the northern border region have a moderate level of understanding about leukemia. The findings demonstrated a lack of knowledge of leukemia risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment methods. However, they have a positive attitude toward leukemia screening.
Steatocystoma Multiplex: “Keep me in your Differentials”
Authors: Sharma Sudha , Chandran V. Anish , Shukla Praveen Kumar , Kumar Ajay 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Steatocystoma multiplex (SM) is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder, seen in adolescence and characterized by hamartomatous malformation of the pilosebaceous units. However, sporadic occurrence has been reported in literature. Histopathologic features are characteristic and should be known to the pathologist, to differentiate from other common causes of skin nodules. We report a case of sporadic SM and highlight the characteristic histopathologic features required for diagnosis.
A Study on Stromal Expression of CD10 Marker in Breast Carcinoma and Its Role as a Prognostic Marker in a Tertiary Care Center in South Kerala
Authors: Praveena K. P. , Glaxon Jinu Abraham , Chandramohan Aswathy , Vivek George 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims:
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality among women. The aim of our study is to evaluate the stromal expression of CD10 in invasive breast carcinoma and to find its relationship with other prognostic markers such as age, histopathologic grade, estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2Neu status.

Materials and Methods:
A total of 51 cases of breast cancer were included in the study. Representative sections were taken and hematoxylin and eosin staining was done. Immunohistochemistry was performed with ER, PR, Her2neu, and CD10. Stromal expression of CD10 is positive when >10% of stromal cells show cytoplasmic and membranous positivity in invasive breast carcinoma. This will be noted and statistically analyzed with different known prognostic markers of breast carcinoma.

Results:
Stromal CD10 positivity was seen in 74.5% of cases (45% were strongly positive and 29.5% were weakly positive). 25.5% of cases were negative. Positivity for ER, PR, and HER2, was 58.8%, 35.3%, and 27.5%, respectively. Stromal expression of CD10 was found to be significantly associated with ER negativity (P = 0.001) and PR negativity (P = 0.001). Increasing intensity was noted with few parameters such as postmenopausal status and histologic grade but could not show statistical significance. No correlation was found between CD10 overexpression with respect to the age, tumor size, lymph node positivity status, tumor stage and HER2Neu status.

Conclusions:
CD10 expression correlated strongly with well-established negative prognostic markers, ER/PR negativity, and higher tumor grade, thus indicating that CD10 can be used as an independent marker indicating poor prognosis. This study highlights the role of stromal CD10 expression in predicting prognosis and the relationship with other prognostic markers. Keeping the role stroma plays in predicting prognosis and tumor response, CD10 can be included as a routine prechemotherapy marker in breast carcinoma. Further studies should be performed to see the role stroma plays in hormonal expression and the usefulness of CD10 to predict treatment failure in breast carcinomas receiving neoadjuvant therapy.
Silver Diamine Fluoride Use in Children with Special Health-care Needs: Breaking the Barriers
Authors: Uppal Simran , Sultan Amina , Juneja Akanksha 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Dental caries is the most common unmet dental need of children with special health-care needs (SHCNs), and their treatment is challenging in routine dental settings. Based on surplus evidence, silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a simple, safe, cost-effective, and efficient topical solution for treating dental caries. It is a clear, colorless, odorless fluoride-containing solution, does not require an extensive armamentarium for its application, and can be used in any setting. However, even with worldwide acceptance, there occurs limited research regarding SDF use in children with special needs. This review aims to update the possibilities and acceptability of SDF usage in patients with special needs with dental caries as a promising option for managing dental caries and improving their quality of life.
An Indian Case Study on Mitochondrial Neurogastrointestinal Encephalomyopathy
Authors: Kareem Shabana , Mathai Reemy Sara 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Mitochondrial neurogastrointestinal encephalomyopathy (MNGIE) is a unique autosomal recessive disorder characterized by mitochondrial changes resulting from mutations in the TYMP gene, responsible for encoding thymidine phosphorylase. Despite its genetic origin, the study indicates that the manifestation of MNGIE does not strictly adhere to a hereditary pattern. The investigation focused on a family from the Ernakulam district of Kerala, India, involving three members. The proband began experiencing gait difficulties at the age of 4, leading to a confirmed diagnosis of MNGIE at 17. Subsequent clinical assessments confirmed MNGIE in the two younger siblings, while the youngest remained unaffected. Common symptoms across all three included ptosis, limited eye movements, generalized muscle atrophy, and the absence of tendon reflexes. Elevated lactate levels were observed in both venous blood and cerebrospinal fluid, and magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed diffuse leukoencephalopathy. Emphasizing the importance of early identification of MNGIE patients, the study underscores the emerging therapeutic options that can positively impact survival and overall health outcomes. The findings highlight that prompt diagnosis and intervention contribute to improved prognosis and well-being in affected individuals.
Kluyvera ascorbata: An Emerging Pathogen and Rare Cause of Urinary Tract Infection in Immunocompetent Patients at a Tertiary Care Center in North India
Authors: Rautela Apurva , Raj Nikhil , Singh Vikramjeet , Das Anupam , Agarwal Jyotsna 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Kluyvera spp. is a Gram-negative bacillus and was discovered by Kluyver and van Niel, included in the family Enterobacteriaceae. We report two cases of urinary tract infection due to Kluyvera ascorbata. The first case was a 61-year-old male, who was admitted to the nephrology department of the hospital with chief complaints of fever with chills from 1 week, abdominal pain, and difficulty in passing urine. The second case was a 29-year-old female, who presented to the medicine department of the hospital with a 4-day history of fever with associated chills and rigor, abdominal pain, chills, and weakness. These patients were treated with nitrofurantoin given orally for 7 days they recovered completely. This case series highlights the role of K. ascorbata, and in general of Kluyvera species, as an unusual but potentially dangerous pathogen, the need for prompt identification to determine potential pathogenicity in the immunocompetent as well as in the immunocompromised host, and to assess the efficacy of antibiotics such as carbapenems and nitrofurantoin.
McGregor Flap in Reconstruction of Lower and Upper Eyelid Defects
Authors: Yasir Mir , Bhat Hillal Ahmad , Rasool Altaf , Mohsin Mir , Baba Umar Farooq , Zargar Haroon Rashid , Bashir Sheikh Adil , Wani Adil Hafeez 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background and Aim:
Reconstruction of the eyelid is a surgical challenge, keeping in view both the cosmetic and functional importance of the eyelid. Here, we are describing our experience with the McGregor flap technique for the closure of full-thickness eyelid defects.

Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted prospectively from August 2015 to July 2018 in one of the tertiary care hospitals in North India. This study consisted of a total of 15 patients treated for eyelid defects following the excision of neoplastic disease of the lids. The final result of the reconstructive procedure was recorded at 6 months postoperatively.

Results:
Most of our patients were above the age of 50 (11 patients) and comprised predominantly females (9 patients). All the defects were reconstructed by the McGregor flap technique. We had excellent functional results in 13 (86.66%) patients, a good result in 1 (6.66%) patient, and an acceptable result in another (6.66%) patient. In terms of cosmesis, excellent results were found in 13 (86.66%) patients and acceptable in the remaining 2 (15.38%) patients.

Conclusion:
The McGregor flap for eyelid defect reconstruction is a reliable, good, and easy technique for reconstructing full-thickness eyelid defects involving up to 2/3rd of the horizontal length of eyelids. The technique can be successfully used for upper eyelid reconstruction with excellent functional and cosmetic results.
Unraveling Complexity: Delving into a Novel Pigmented Epithelioid Melanocytoma Case
Authors: Mysorekar Vijaya V. , Gaffoor Nidha , Divyashree B N , Tejas S Sharath Chandra 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
Pigmented epithelioid melanocytoma (PEM) is a rare and diagnostically challenging skin neoplasm. Differentiating this lesion from melanoma is challenging due to overlapping clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical features. Some PEMs have a benign course, while others may be associated with more aggressive behaviour and have potential for local recurrence or distant metastasis. So, careful evaluation and follow-up are crucial for individuals with a diagnosis of PEM. This case study focuses on a 42-year-old woman with a gradually enlarging, dark, pigmented gluteal lesion. Histopathological analysis following complete excision showed nodular proliferation of spindled and epithelioid melanocytes in the dermis, extending into subcutaneous fat. Cellular atypia or mitotic figures were absent, confirming the diagnosis as PEM. This case underscores the intricate balance between monitoring and intervention in complex dermatological cases, shedding light on diagnostic challenges and ultimately striving for improved patient care.
Fracture Resistance and Push-Out Bond Strength of Three Post Types in the Restoration of Anterior Primary Teeth - A In Vitro study
Authors: Eltobgy Asmaa E. , Elmalt Magda , Eldehna Alaa 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Context:
Restoration fractures and displacement are the two main causes of failure after the rehabilitation of severely worn primary anterior teeth.

Aims:
Compare the effect of three post types on the fracture and push-out bond strength.

Methods and Materials:
Sixty undamaged maxillary anterior primary teeth were allocated into three groups according to post type: (I) Tetric N Ceram composite post, (II) prefabricated glass fiber post, and (III) high viscous glass ionomer post. Each group was further subdivided into two sub-groups depending on the test used: fracture resistance test and push-out bond strength test. The all specimens were mounted in acrylic resin blocks and tested using a universal testing machine. The fracture and failure mode were determined by a stereomicroscope inspection of all the specimens. Data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Bonferroni post hoc test (P < 0.05).

Results:
There was a statistically significant difference between fracture resistance and push-out bond strength values for the experimental groups (P < 0.05). The most significant fracture resistance value was in Group II and core/post fracture (restorable fracture) was the most obvious fracture in the three groups with the highest percentage in Group I. The most significant push-out bond strength value was in Group I and adhesive failure between dentin and luting cement/post was the most common type in the groups.

Conclusions:
The fracture resistance and push-out bond strength were affected by the type of post (P = 0.000). Prefabricated glass fiber posts showed the highest fracture resistance in this study. However, Tetric N Ceram composite posts had the most restorable fracture. Tetric N Ceram composite posts had the highest bond strength with adhesive failure mode.
Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis—An experience at autopsy
Authors: Vaideeswar Pradeep , Fernandes Gwendolyn , Datar Sharada , Zare Pranita 
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis is an uncommon mode of metastases, characterized by diffuse infiltration of the lymphatics malignant cells, and is mainly the subject of case reports or a few case series.

Aims:
The aim of this study is to study the clinicopathological features of this entity at autopsy.

Materials and Methods:
This is a retrospective study of data collected over an 11-year period at a tertiary-care hospital. Clinicopathological data of all autopsies with lymphangitic carcinomatosis were analyzed with reference to their demographics, clinical presentation, investigations, sites of primary cancer, and other relevant findings at autopsy.

Results:
Among 255 cases of malignancies encountered in 7521 autopsies during the study period, 43 patients (16.9%) showed pulmonary metastasis with 22 (13 females and 9 males, mean age of 52.04 years) histologically proven lymphangitic carcinomatosis of the lungs. An antemortem diagnosis was made in only 1 of the 22 cases. The most common sites of carcinoma had been the stomach or the lungs (40.9%) and dyspnea had been the main symptom. The lungs, in addition, showed metastatic deposits and arterial thrombi and/or tumor emboli. The most common nonpulmonary site for metastasis was the liver and lymph nodes.

Conclusions:
Pulmonary lymphangitic carcinomatosis is often an underdiagnosed clinical entity and the presence of acute progressive respiratory failure in patients with epithelial cancers should raise clinical suspicion. This is one of the largest series to be reported at autopsy.