bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
First detection of Leishmania DNA in Lutzomyia longipalpis sensu lato (Diptera: Phlebotominae) in southem Mexico
Authors: de Oca-Aguilar Ana C Montes , Fernández-Figueroa Edith A , Pavón-Méndez Mariela I , López-Ávila Karina , Sosa-Bibiano Erika I , Rebollar-Téllez Eduardo A , Palacio-Vargas Jorge A , Miranda-Ortíz Haydee , Loría-Cervera Elsy N 
Published: December 2023

Background & objectives:

Lutzomyia longipalpis sensu lato is an important vector of Leishmania infantum, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in Latin America. In Mexico, this species has been recorded in endemic areas of leishmaniasis transmission, but it has never been detected as infected with Leishmania sp. This study aimed to explore the presence of Leishmania DNA in Lutzomyia longipalpis s.l. from samples collected with a human baited trap from an endemic region of leishmaniasis in southeastern Mexico.

Methods:
This is a prospective study where a total of 45 specimens of Lu. longipalpis s.l. collected in two sites of Yucatan state with records of leishmaniasis were tested. The nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer was amplified for the detection of Leishmania DNA.

Results:
Two females were positive for Leishmania DNA. None of the specimens positive for parasite DNA were found fed or gravid. Our finding represents the first record of infection by Leishmania in Lu. longipalpis s.l. for the country.

Interpretation & conclusion:
More studies are necessary to understand the potential role of this vector species in the transmission cycle of the causative agent of leishmaniasis in the southeastern and other regions of Mexico.
Psychological Impact of Maxillectomy and Prosthodontic Rehabilitation and Role of Socio-demographic and Disease-related Variables
Authors: Gupta Chanchal , Raj Ruchi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
The objectives of this study were to evaluate the psychological impact of maxillectomy and prosthodontic rehabilitation and to assess the role of various sociodemographic and disease-related variables on the psychological distress of patients.

Materials and Methods:
Thirty-nine patients who were referred for prosthodontic rehabilitation after maxillectomy were enrolled, of whom 36 completed the study. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to assess and compare the psychological distress level after maxillectomy (T0) and 3 weeks after insertion of a definitive obturator (T1). The Obturator Functioning Scale was also used to assess the functioning of the obturator prosthesis. The means of anxiety and depression scores were also compared among different variables using one-way ANOVA. A probability level of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:
Anxiety and depression scores were significantly reduced at T1 compared to T0 (P < 0.001). The patients reported little or no difficulty with the obturator prosthesis. Among the sociodemographic variables, psychological distress was not affected by the patient’s age or marital status at any time point (P > 0.05); however, the female, illiterate, and unemployed patients had significantly higher HADS scores compared to the male, graduate, and employed patients (P < 0.05). Malignant tumors and large postsurgical defects had a significant impact on psychological distress compared to benign tumors and small defects (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
Maxillectomy had a profound psychological impact. Prosthodontic rehabilitation after maxillectomy restored function and esthetics to near normalcy, and this helps to cope with psychological distress.
Recurrent and chronic anterior uveitis: Long-term outcome and treatment strategies
Authors: Sharon Yael , Goren Lee , Barayev Edward , Neumann Ron , Chu David S , Kramer Michal 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Purpose:
To study the long-term clinical outcome and treatment strategies of recurrent and chronic non-infectious anterior uveitis.

Methods:
Multicenter study of anterior uveitis patients from 2001 to 2022. Outcome measures included ocular complications, medical and surgical therapies, and visual acuity measured at the beginning of follow-up and at 1, 2, and 5 years thereafter.

Results:
In total, 76 patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 6.8 years. Idiopathic anterior uveitis was the most common etiology (56%). Immunomodulatory agents (IMAs) were used in almost half of the cohort. Early initiation of IMAs was associated with a lower risk of developing glaucoma (P = 0.019). Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved after 5 years in both groups. Early use of immunomodulation was correlated with a better visual outcome at 2 years (P = 0.024).

Conclusion:
Chronic and recurrent anterior uveitis were associated with greater risk than expected for ocular complications, surgeries, and vision impairment. Early initiation of immunomodulation should be strongly considered to improve clinical course and outcome.
In vivo identification of angle dysgenesis and its relation to genetic markers associated with glaucoma using artificial intelligence
Authors: Gupta Viney , Birla Shweta , Varshney Toshit , Somarajan Bindu I , Gupta Shikha , Gupta Mrinalini , Panigrahi Arnav , Singh Abhishek , Gupta Dinesh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Purpose:
To predict the presence of angle dysgenesis on anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (ADoA) by using deep learning (DL) and to correlate ADoA with mutations in known glaucoma genes.

Participants:
In total, 800 high-definition anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) images were included, of which 340 images were used to build the machine learning (ML) model. Images used to build the ML model included 170 scans of primary congenital glaucoma (16 patients), juvenile-onset open-angle glaucoma (62 patients), and adult-onset primary open-angle glaucoma eyes (37 patients); the rest were controls (n = 85). The genetic validation dataset consisted of another 393 images of patients with known mutations that were compared with 320 images of healthy controls.

Methods:
ADoA was defined as the absence of Schlemm’s canal, the presence of hyperreflectivity over the region of the trabecular meshwork, or a hyperreflective membrane. DL was used to classify a given AS-OCT image as either having angle dysgenesis or not. ADoA was then specifically looked for on AS-OCT images of patients with mutations in the known genes for glaucoma.

Results:
The final prediction, which was a consensus-based outcome from the three optimized DL models, had an accuracy of >95%, a specificity of >97%, and a sensitivity of >96% in detecting ADoA in the internal test dataset. Among the patients with known gene mutations, (MYOC, CYP1B1, FOXC1, and LTBP2) ADoA was observed among all the patients in the majority of the images, compared to only 5% of the healthy controls.

Conclusion:
ADoA can be objectively identified using models built with DL.
Psoriasis Clearance Rates with Different Treatments – An In-depth Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Lovell Katie , Zaino Mallory , Kontzias Christina , Feldman Steven R. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
Before the advent of biologics, psoriasis clearance was not a realistic goal of treatment.

Purpose:
This retrospective chart review aimed to compare the rates of psoriasis clearance associated with different modes of therapy in real-life practice.

Methods:
The study included 256 psoriasis patients who had >2 Physician Global Assessment and body surface area scores and psoriasis treatments recorded during a 3-year period.

Results:
Injection biologics performed better than regimens including topical agents alone or in combination with topical and oral systemic therapy. Patients on injection regimens accounted for 90% of patients with disease clearance. Injection therapy alone had a larger decrease in psoriasis severity scores from baseline than injection therapy combined with other agents. Despite clinical trials being monotherapy studies, this study conducted at a large referral center aligns with the clearance rates reported in clinical trials.

Conclusion:
Our results suggest that monotherapy studies can be translated into community practice. Overall, this study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of biologic therapy in psoriasis management and underscores the importance of patient education on the potential for complete clearance with modern therapies.
Infantile Systemic Hyalinosis Diagnosed as Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gupta Kritika , Khan Hania Q. , Amin Syed S. , Chandra Mithilesh 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Infantile systemic hyalinosis (ISH) is a rare fatal autosomal recessive disorder characterized by hyaline deposition in the skin and internal organs. Children with ISH usually present to orthopedicians due to decreased and painful limb movements with flexed position and are often misdiagnosed due to unnoticed cutaneous involvement. We describe an infant who was diagnosed with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita and is being managed for the same with serial plaster casts over limbs to release contractures. He was referred to the dermatology department for intertrigo, where we observed characteristic frog position of limbs, painful limb movements, and nodules over joints. Histopathology confirmed the hyaline dermal deposition, and the child was diagnosed with ISH. This case highlights the importance of extensive general and systemic examination and a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose rare disorders. Timely referral helps to avoid unnecessary investigations or painful invasive procedures.
Diagnosis and Management of Hereditary Gingival Fibromatosis in a 9-year-old Girl
Authors: Srivani Tammina Mohana , George Joann Pauline , Gadde Pujitha 
Published: December 2023

ABSTRACT

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is an uncommon, inherited condition with slow and progressive fibrous hyperplasia of the gingiva. The fibrous nature of the enlargement interferes with eruption, mastication, speech, and occlusion. This condition is more commonly noted during the transition from deciduous to permanent dentition. This can have overbearing effects on the psychology and function of the individual, thus making early diagnosis and precise management important. The conventional mode of treatment includes scalpel gingivectomy (external/internal bevel). In young patients, gingivectomies involving the entire dentition can be a therapeutic challenge. Lasers have proven themselves as viable substitutes for conventional gingival surgeries. The use of Light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) for gingivectomy may also present added advantages such as lack of bleeding, increased patient cooperation, and better compliance. This case report presents the diagnosis and treatment of HGF in a 9-year-old girl emphasizing the unique advantage of LASER in the clinical scenario.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE TO INTERDISCIPLINARY DENTISTRY

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) is a rare condition that is seen associated with the eruption of permanent dentitionThe pediatric dentist normally first diagnoses HGF in children. The management of the same requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes a pedodontist and a periodontistThe treatment of choice which is gingivectomy when done with a scalpel for the entire dentition may raise therapeutic challenges in young patientsLight amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) gingivectomy will offer a bloodless, painless surgical field making the child more amenable to gingivectomyLASER gingivectomy delivered by the periodontist under the watchful aegis of a pedodontist will make a right therapeutic choice for the treatment of HGFThe 9-year-old patient was compliant due to the decreased bleeding and time associated with LASER gingivectomyLaser protocol is minimally invasive and has reduced postoperative discomfort and hence is well accepted by pediatric patients and has shown higher levels of predictability.
Adducted Thumb in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: An Early Clue to Prenatal Diagnosis of L1 Syndrome
Authors: Yang Yan-Dong , Li Dong-Zhi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
A pregnant woman was revealed to have an unusual position of the fetal hand by a routine 12-week ultrasound. Bilateral adducted thumbs and a male phenotype were confirmed by another ultrasound at 14 weeks’ gestation. A structural survey at 18 weeks revealed fetal hydrocephalus with severe bilateral ventriculomegaly. The pregnancy was terminated, and postnatal examination with trio exome sequencing detected a hemizygous deletion (1,511 bp in size) variant of L1CAM gene in the fetus, inherited from the mother. The fetus was diagnosed as L1 syndrome (X-linked hydrocephalus). A family study found that this was a familial mutant allele. This study demonstrates that fetal hand abnormalities can be identified in the first trimester. Adducted thumbs might indicate the maldevelopment of the fetal brain, and therefore, examination of fetal hands and fingers should be integrated into fetal anomaly scans.
Ultrasound Assessment of an Isolated Rupture of the Medial Bundle of a Bifid Distal Biceps Tendon
Authors: Charnock Mark 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
This case study describes a patient with a clinically ruptured distal biceps tendon, with ultrasound detecting an isolated rupture of the medial bundle of a bifid distal biceps tendon. A 45-year-old male presented to the accident and emergency department with a week-old history of a right elbow injury. The ultrasound scan demonstrated a hypoechoic, corrugated distal biceps tendon with a tendon stump close to the radial tuberosity insertion in keeping with a rupture. However, a small caliber accessory or bifid distal biceps tendon was also identified and was intact. Typically, distal biceps tendon ruptures occur following a traumatic event with most detected clinically although imaging is required to confirm the diagnosis. Ultrasound is utilized to assess these injuries, and several different techniques or approaches are described in the literature. A combination of these approaches is required to make an accurate diagnosis. Detection of bifid distal biceps tendons is important for patient management, especially if a surgical repair is considered. This case highlights the anatomical variant of a bifid distal biceps tendon, which was ruptured clinically. The ultrasound diagnosis of distal biceps tendon ruptures can be challenging, especially when there is limited tendon retraction. This case also demonstrated the importance of dynamic ultrasound in the assessment of tendon ruptures.
Ultrasound Assessment in a Pregnant Woman? Not just for the Fetus
Authors: Coelho Telmo Borges , Gomes Ricardo Manuel Rocha , Teixeira Jorge , Mariz José António 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Pericarditis is a relatively common diagnosis worldwide; however, there are few data published on the frequency, diagnosis, and management of pericardial diseases in pregnant women. Ultrasonography has established its utmost importance and is worldwide recognized in pregnancy and fetal evaluation. Moreover, point-of-care ultrasonography of pregnant women, guided by clinical examination and history, can play an equally fundamental role. We present a case of a 37-year-old pregnant woman who presented at the emergency department with pleuritic chest pain, fever, and cough. Bedside point-of-care ultrasonography confirmed pericarditis revealing an organized pericardial effusion, leading to patient hospitalization and initiation of therapy. The importance and acknowledgment of portable and hand-held ultrasonography devices are growing since it enables physicians not only to make a fast and accurate diagnosis but also to access evolution in inpatient and outpatient settings.
Evaluation of quality of life, pharmacoeconomics, and cardiovascular risk in patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A prospective, observational study
Authors: Harkhani Jolly M. , Arya Vivek , Marwah Tiven , Tiwari Hemant , Sood Shikha V. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic, metabolic disorder characterized by elevated levels of blood glucose, negatively affecting multiple body organs and quality of life (QoL).

OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the study was to evaluate QoL and cardiovascular risk in patients of type 2 diabetes using the Modified Diabetes QoL questionnaire (MDQoL17) and the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study Risk Engine (UKPDS-RE), respectively. To evaluate pharmacoeconomics, Incremental Cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) were gained in the same patients.

METHODOLOGY:
A prospective observational study was carried out for 18 months after approval from the institutional review board. Patients of either sex, 18 years and above, attending the medicine outpatient department fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in the study.

RESULTS:
Of 311 patients, 194 (62.38%) were males and 117 (37.62%) were females. The mean age was 58.31 ± 10.63 years. The mean MDQoL-17 score was 68.75 ± 15.65. Male patients had a better QoL score (73.04 ± 14.31) than female patients (61.65 ± 15.24). The mean cost of treatment/patient of diabetes for 1 year in Indian rupees (

JOURNAL/njpt/04.03/02273874-202301030-00005/137FF02/v/2023-12-26T143439Z/r/image-tiff

) is 18462.43 ± 3899. The mean direct and indirect cost/patients in Indian rupees (

JOURNAL/njpt/04.03/02273874-202301030-00005/137FF02/v/2023-12-26T143439Z/r/image-tiff

) for a 1 year are 17651.83 ± 2789.17 and 1091.50 ± 784.41, respectively. Twenty-three antidiabetic regimens were identified for ICER and QALY calculation. Most of these regimens had an upper right and lower left quadrant distribution in cost to QoL incremental ratio. Seventy-seven patients were eligible for UKPDS-RE. Thirty-one (40.26%) had <15% risk (low); 31 (40.26%) had ≥15-<30% risk (medium), and 15 (19.48%) had the highest risk for developing coronary heart disease (CHD) in the next 10 years. Male patients had a higher risk of developing CHD compared to females. The patients who had habit of smoking, glycated hemoglobin >8%, and high-density lipoprotein Cholesterol >40 mg/dl, were at higher risk of developing CHD.

CONCLUSION:
QoL is moderately affected in DM. It predisposes to cardiovascular disease. It adds to the economic burden of the patient.
Active surveillance of adverse events following immunization for coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine (ChAdOx1) at a tertiary care teaching institute in Central India
Authors: Gupta Ashish Vijay , Akkilagunta Sujiv , Dakhale Ganesh N. , Chindhalore Chaitali Ashish , Deshmukh Pradeep R. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract:

BACKGROUND:
Like other medicinal products, vaccines are not free from adverse reactions. On January 2, 2021, the Drugs Controller General of India granted permission for restricted emergency use of a vaccine, namely COVISHIELD (ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine). There was a lack of safety data in the Indian population after restricted emergency approval of the vaccine. The present study addresses the assessment of adverse events following immunizations (AEFIs) among the beneficiaries receiving the COVISHIELD vaccine.

METHODOLOGY:
A prospective observational cohort study was conducted on eligible beneficiaries attending the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination center in our institute. The study was conducted from April 2021 to March 2022.

RESULTS:
Three hundred and thirty participants completed the study, with a response rate of 97.92%. The most frequently reported AEFI after the first dose was injection site pain. No AEFI was reported after 3 months of the second dose of vaccination. After the first dose of vaccination, fever was significant (P = 0.009) in male participants and injection site pain was significantly common (P = 0.015) in participants with no comorbidity. After the second dose of vaccination, injection site pain was significant (P = 0.008) in those participants whose age was ≤60 years, and injection site pain was significant (<0.0001) in those participants who did not have any comorbidity.

CONCLUSION:
The majority of reactions belong to the minor category which includes injection site pain, fever, and myalgia. Thus, the study findings provide inputs for making regulatory decisions for vaccines used for COVID-19.
A study of drug prescribing pattern among pregnant women in the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient department at a rural tertiary care teaching hospital of Maharashtra
Authors: Parker Janhavi Satchidanand , More Pankaj Daulat , Bahekar Satish Eknath 
Published: December 2023

Abstract:

CONTEXT:
Antenatal period is the crucial period in women. It is very much essential to know the rationality of drug use and the patients’ knowledge in this aspect as evident from various literature.

AIMS:
The aim was to evaluate the prescribing pattern among pregnant women visiting in the obstetrics and gynecology (OBGY) outpatient departments (OPD) teaching hospital and to appraise their knowledge regarding safe drug use during pregnancy.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN:
This was descriptive, cross-sectional, observational drug prescription study in OBGY OPD.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS:
In a sample size of 200 pregnant women, socioeconomic parameters were assessed. Prescriptions were analyzed as per the World Health Organization (WHO) core prescribing indicators. The knowledge of the patients regarding safe drug use during pregnancy was assessed through the standard questionnaire.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:
Analysis was primarily descriptive with values mainly expressed as percentages using Microsoft Excel.

RESULTS:
Majority of patients were from the rural area depending on the peripheral/primary health services for OBGY conditions. Most of pregnant women were in the age group of 21–25 years. In terms of WHO prescribing indicators, it was evident that prescribing pattern of health-care providers in the study site was irrational. The knowledge of study participants regarding safe drug use during pregnancy was of mixed in terms of defined parameters. The most commonly prescribed classes of drugs in pregnant women were vitamins, followed by iron and calcium preparations.

CONCLUSIONS:
This study helped to conclude the irrational drug prescription pattern and estimation of attitude and awareness among this vulnerable patient group about the drugs and possible risk associated with the medications in this clinically important phase.
Levetiracetam-induced rash and desquamation: An extremely rare adverse drug reaction
Authors: Rathod Jaydeep , Gupta Sapna , Rana Devang , Malhotra Supriya 
Published: December 2023

Abstract:
Levetiracetam is a second-generation antiepileptic medication with a diverse array of mechanisms of action. Cutaneous adverse drug reactions (CADRs) associated with levetiracetam are infrequently reported in the literature. We present a case of a patient who developed a rash and desquamation due to levetiracetam treatment, which was completely resolved on cessation of the medication. We conduct a comprehensive review of the literature on CADRs associated with levetiracetam and propose a hypothesis regarding the underlying mechanism of this uncommon complication. We also highlight the importance of health-care providers being aware of the full range of potential adverse drug reactions associated with levetiracetam, including the occurrence of rash and desquamation. Prompt discontinuation of therapy is essential to reverse the associated effects. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiology of CADRs associated with levetiracetam and to develop strategies for prevention and management.