bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CD47 expression in urothelial carcinoma and its correlation with histopathological findings
Authors: Çoban Ganime , Yıldız Pelin , Şahin Nurhan , Ersöz Cevper , Toprak Ali , Ünver Nurcan , Elagöz Şahande 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
The incidence of bladder cancers (BCs) is increasing day by day in both males and females with increased smoking. New treatment protocols are required due to the long follow-up times and high recurrence rates. CD47 (integrin-associated protein) is a membrane receptor that is effective in normal and pathophysiological events such as apoptosis, proliferation, adhesion, and immunity. Phagocytosis of both normal and tumor cells is prevented, by binding to the ligand signal regulatory protein-1 (SIRP-1)α on macrophages. Anti-CD47 antibodies can eliminate the binding and may be effective in treatment.

Methods:
The study included 194 cases with urothelial carcinoma (UC) who underwent transurethral resection (TUR) of the bladder and had been followed up for one year. Cytoplasmic and membranous staining was preferred for CD47-positive staining. Staining results were compared with tumor grades, pathologic tumor stage, recurrence, and metastasis grade.

Results:
The prevalence and intensity of CD47 staining in BCs were evaluated in this study. High-grade tumors were stained more pronouncedly compared with low-grade tumors and normal epithelium. The prevalence of CD47 staining was significant in pT2 (Pathological tumor stage 2, invades of muscularis propria) tumors, and its correlation with pTa (Pathological tumor stage a, noninvasive papillary carcinoma) tumors was significant (P < 0.001). In the intensity evaluation, there was a significant difference between pTa and pT2 and between pT1 (Pathological tumor stage 1, invades lamina propria) and pT2 (P = 0.003).

Conclusion:
CD47 is expressed strongly in high-grade tumors. The prevalence and intensity of CD47 staining are high in pathologic tumor stage, recurrence, and distant metastases and are considered poor prognostic markers. We believe that anti-CD47 antibodies can be used as an alternative to the current treatment or in combination with other medications, and the systemic side effects that may occur with intravesical treatment can be prevented.
Prevalence of asymptomatic brain metastases in metastatic nonsquamous nonsmall cell lung cancer: Treatment implications for resource-constrained settings
Authors: Shukla Shubham , Prasad Kuruswamy Thurai , Ahuja Chirag Kamal , Muthu Valliappan , Singh Navneet 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
Brain metastases (BM) are common in metastatic nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, routine neuroimaging in asymptomatic patients with metastatic NSCLC is controversial as there is no conclusive evidence of benefit from the detection and treatment of asymptomatic BM. Herein, we evaluated the prevalence of asymptomatic BM and its treatment implications in a resource-limited setting.

Methods:
Consecutive patients with newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve, metastatic, nonsquamous NSCLC (NS-NSCLC) were included. Subjects who already had clinical or radiological features suggestive of BM were excluded from the study. All eligible subjects underwent contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain. Management of the detected BM was at the discretion of the treating clinicians.

Results:
Among 809 subjects who were screened, 100 (12.4%) were included in the study and underwent MRI. BM was present in 30 (30%) of the subjects and absent in the remaining 70 subjects. A majority of BM were multiple (70%), involved the frontal lobe commonly (73.3%), and had a mean (standard deviation) size of 13.2 (7.3) mm. Detection of BM resulted in a treatment alteration in 17 (17%) of the study subjects (brain irradiation, n = 17, change in targeted therapy, n = 3) with BM. There was no difference in survival of patients who underwent treatment alteration for management of BM compared to those who did not (P = 0.132).

Conclusions:
About one-third of patients with metastatic NS-NSCLC had BM in MRI despite the absence of symptoms. Despite treatment of the majority of the patients with BM with brain irradiation, there was no demonstrable survival benefit. Hence, we conclude that although routine neuroimaging of asymptomatic patients with newly diagnosed metastatic NSCLC may result in treatment alteration (primarily brain irradiation) in a small proportion of patients, it may not influence outcomes in resource-constrained settings.
Effect of Multicomponent Exercise Program on Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction in Oral Cancer Survivors
Authors: Shinde Sandeep , Kadam Ishana , Dalvi Shivanee , Jain Pooja , Patil Sanjaykumar , Gudur Anand 
Published: December 2023

Introduction:
Cancer is the second most cause of mortality among which oral cancer is the most prevalent form. In temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD), patients present with pain, restricted mouth opening, poor posture, facial asymmetry, diminished strength, altered breathing patterns, decreased deglutition, and poor eating habits The objective of this research was to determine and compare the effect of a multicomponent exercise program with conventional physiotherapy program for TMJD in oral cancer survivors.

Materials and Methods:
This study included 100 participants with TMJD based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Then, the subjects were randomly allocated into Group A and Group B by a simple random sampling method. Group A was given a conventional physiotherapy exercise program and for Group B multicomponent exercise program was given. Outcome measures used were a Visual Analog Scale, assessment of range of motion (ROM) and manual muscle testing (MMT) and the American Academy of Orofacial Pain questionnaire. Pre- and post-assessment of the above measures was taken to confirm the results.

Results:
The results showed a statistically significant effect of the multicomponent exercise program as compared to a conventional exercise program for TMJD in oral cancer survivors. There was a significant reduction in pain (<0.0001) in individuals in Group B than in Group A. Restriction in the ROM and improvement in MMT were also significantly (P < 0.0001) resolved and the facial symmetry, breathing patterns as well as swallowing difficulty were also improved.

Conclusion:
On the basis of the results, it can be concluded that the Group B who followed the multicomponent exercise program showed better improvement in pain intensity, ROM, facial symmetry, muscle strength, breathing pattern and in swallowing as compared to Group A. Similarly utilizing a multifaceted patient-centered approach has been proven to be effective and lead to successful recovery of the temporomandibular joint function in oral cancer survivors.
Mini-plate versus Reconstruction Plate: A Comparative Analysis of Complications in Free Fibula Osteocutaneous Flaps for Oral Cancer
Authors: George Rithin , Vijay Sandeep , Attakkil Anoop , Nair Raveena , Thomas Linu , Mullath Aswin 
Published: December 2023

Background:
Advanced Oral cancers require segmental mandibulectomy, which ideally requires fibula flap reconstruction. Mini-plates or reconstruction plates are used for fibula fixation as per the surgeon’s preference, but the complication rates of each have hardly been studied. The purpose of this study was to find the incidence of plate-related complications, the factors attributing to it, and the difference in complication rates between mini-plate and reconstruction plate for fibula flap fixation exclusively in oral cancer patients who underwent segmental mandibulectomy as part of ablative surgery.

Materials and Methods:
The study was a retrospective observational study of oral cancer patients who underwent free fibula osteocutaneous flap reconstruction for mandibulectomy defects from November 2010 to November 2020 at a tertiary cancer center in India.

Statistical Methods:
Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test.

Results:
Thirty-nine patients were included in the study and the mean follow-up period was 31 months. Seventeen of them had mini-plate fixation, 16 had reconstruction plate fixation and in two patients, both were used. About 25.64% of patients had complications. In the mini-plate group, 11.7% of patients had complications whereas 44.4% had complications in the recon plate group. 9/32 patients who took adjuvant treatment had complications, and in this subset of patients, there was a significant difference in the incidence of complications between the mini and recon plate groups (P = 0.03).

Conclusion:
Mini-plates are associated with less complications while used for fixation in microvascular fibula osteocutaneous flaps in oral cavity malignancy who are potential candidates for adjuvant treatment.
Do Polymorphisms Predispose Dental Caries Susceptibility in Egyptian Adults? A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Negm Hassan M. H. 
Published: December 2023

Aim:
Understanding how specific genetic variations related to dental caries in understudied populations can pave the way for more personalized approaches to oral health care. The study is designed to explore the correlation between three genetic polymorphisms in Egyptian adults.

Materials and Methods:
We included 132 young adults aged 15–22 years, with an equal distribution of males and females, randomly selected from secondary Cairene school. The participants were in good health, without hereditary diseases, and had no recent dental treatment. Dental exams were conducted using standardized criteria, with reliability ensured between examiners. DNA collection was performed using buccal swabs, and DNA purification was carried out according to the manufacturer's instructions. Samples were stored at −21°C for future analysis. We selected specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for ENAM rs3796703, DEFB1 rs11362, and AMELX rs946252 for genotyping. χ2 test and its corresponding statistical significance were calculated.

Results:
Specific genetic variations, particularly ENAM rs3796703, AMELX rs946252, DEFB1 rs11362, and KLK4 rs2242670, were found to be significantly linked to an elevated caries risk in the group predisposed to caries. These particular genetic variations were notably more prevalent among individuals at a higher risk of developing dental caries.

Conclusion:
The DEFB1 rs11362 AG genotype showed significance, notably associated with a high DMFT index, particularly in individuals with severe and proximal caries. In contrast, the ENAM rs3796703 polymorphism revealed similar frequencies of allele C and allele T in both caries-susceptible and caries-resistant groups, with genotype CT being significantly associated with reduced dental caries susceptibility. KLK4 rs2242670 did not reveal significant associations with dental caries susceptibility, indicating that this gene polymorphism.
Fracture Strength of Direct and Indirect Composite Veneers After Aging
Authors: Menon Aishwarya , Kumar Sowmya M. , Hegde Chethan 
Published: December 2023

Aim:
The number of patients seeking veneers for minor changes in the color, shape, and size of their anterior teeth has increased. On the basis of this requirement, with the advances in physical and optical properties, composite resins have become viable materials to be used for veneers. There is a paucity of studies that highlight the use of composite resins for anterior esthetic rehabilitations. Hence, this study aimed to compare the fracture strengths of direct and indirect composite veneers.

Materials and Methods:
This study was conducted on a total of 56 maxillary central incisor samples, divided into two groups: direct composite (n = 28) and indirect composite (n = 28) veneers. Tooth preparations were done, and composite veneers were made via the two techniques. Thermocycling was carried out to age the restorations for half the samples from both groups. The fracture test was performed in a universal testing machine where the load was applied from the incisal direction at the veneer–tooth interface.

Results:
Direct composite veneers showed a mean fracture strength of 485 ± 147 N before and 438 ± 199 N after thermocycling. Indirect composite veneers showed a mean fracture strength of 409 ± 179 N before and 254 ± 135 N after thermocycling. The most common mode of failure for direct composite veneers was veneer chipping and fracture, whereas debonding was most frequently noted for indirect composite veneers. Statistical analysis used: Unpaired t test was used to study the fracture strengths among the two groups before and after thermocycling. The comparison of frequencies of a mode of failure was investigated using the chi-square test.

Conclusions:
The direct composite resin veneers showed superior fracture strength, both before and after thermocycling.
Therapeutic Potential of Catechin as an IKK-β Inhibitor for the Management of Arthritis: In vitro and In vivo Approach
Authors: Goyal Gourav , Kalonia Harikesh , Lather Viney 
Published: December 2023

Background:
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increased levels of cytokines, for instance, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), which exhibit potent pro-inflammatory effects and are contributing factors to disease progression. A range of cytokines, cell adhesion molecules, and enzymes that are implicated in the debilitating effects of RA are transcribed by nuclear factor kappa.

Objectives:
The purpose of this research was to characterize the efficacy of “catechin” as an IkappaB kinase-beta (IKK-β) inhibitor in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model in mice, as IKK-β is crucial in the transmission of signal-inducible NF-κβ activation.

Methods:
Arthritis was brought on in Bagg and Albino, but it is written BALB/c (BALB/c) male mice through subcutaneous immunization with bovine type II collagen on days 0 and 21. Catechin is given orally every day after the onset of the disease. Clinical evaluation of the prevalence and severity of the condition was done throughout the trial, and biochemical testing was done at the end (day 42).

Results:

In vitro findings of the study demonstrated catechin as a potent inhibitor of IKK-β with Half maximal Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) values of 2.90 μM and 4.358 μM in IKK-β and NF-κβ transactivation activity assay, respectively. Furthermore, catechin (dose range of 10–100 mg/kg, p.o.) was effective in reducing disease incidence and clinical signs in a dose-dependent manner, with an Effective Dose for 50% of the population (ED50) value of 79.579 mg/kg. The findings of this study demonstrate dose-dependent efficacy in terms of both disease severity (clinical scoring) and inflammatory markers (biochemical evaluation of the serum and joints).

Conclusions:
IKK inhibitors are a prospective target for the creation of new therapeutics for arthritis and other inflammatory diseases because it has been suggested that this enzyme is crucial in the pathophysiology of RA. The finding of this study suggests that “catechin” represents a novel inhibitor of IKK-β with promising anti-inflammatory activity.
Comparative study of use of reusable skin staples and vertical mattress sutures in the closure of midline laparotomy wounds
Authors: Anyanwu Stanley N. C. , Okoye Aloysius Odili , Obiesie Emmanuel Ahuizechukwu , Eze Balantine U. , Ihekwoaba Eric C. , Nwofor Alexander M. E. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
There is an increasing tendency to close midline abdominal wounds with staples because of the speed of closure. The aim of this study was to compare the use of skin staples and vertical mattress sutures in the closure of midline abdominal wounds.

Materials and Methods:
Patients who met inclusion criteria and were booked for laparotomy in our teaching hospital were counseled on the two methods of skin closure using vertical mattress sutures or the use of staples (35 W Surustap, Suru International PVT Ltd, India). Alternating post-laparotomy wounds were closed using skin staples and with a vertical mattress, using nylon 2(0) (3 metric) sutures. The parameters assessed were speed of closure, cost of closure using the different methods, wound infection rate, and short-term cosmetic appearance of wounds. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 (IBM, SPSS, Chicago, Illinois).

Results:
Sixty patients met the inclusion criteria and were recruited for the study. The speed of closure of midline laparotomy skin wound was significantly higher in “the staple group” than in “the suture group” (0.14 vs. 0.034 cm/s), P < 0.05, while the cost of use of staples was significantly more than the cost for closure with sutures (184 vs. 26 Naira/cm), P < 0.05. The mean operative time was significantly less in “the staple group” than in “the suture group” (128.9 minutes versus 157.6 min), P < 0.05. There was no significant difference in the infection rates and cosmetic appearance between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:
Midline abdominal wound closure with staples is faster. There was no difference in wound complication rates and scar appearance when compared with skin closures using the vertical mattress technique. Wound closure with staples is, however, more costly.
Preliminary experience with mini-laparotomy cholecystectomy in Jos
Authors: Ale Alexander Femi , Isichei Mercy W. , Misauno Michael A. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
Different techniques have been described for removing a diseased gall bladder; however, cholecystectomy via the laparoscopic approach is currently regarded as the gold standard. Laparoscopic surgery services are not widely available in low- and middle-income countries and mini-laparotomy cholecystectomy may be a suitable alternative in such circumstances. This technique achieves cholecystectomy with a smaller incision and affords the advantages of the laparoscopic approach.

Objective:
We report our experience over a 2-year period of 24 consecutive patients from two hospitals who underwent mini-laparotomy cholecystectomy to highlight our outcomes with the procedure.

Materials and Methods:
Data were obtained from the surgical theatre procedure register and medical records department of the hospital.

Results:
During the study period, a total of 24 mini-laparotomy cholecystectomies were performed. Fourteen (58.3%) patients had a clinical diagnosis of calculous cholecystitis whereas 10 (41.7%) patients had symptomatic gallstones. There were four males (16.7%) and 20 females (83.3%) giving a male-to-female ratio of 1:5. The ages ranged from 18 to 68 years with a mean of 46.8 years (standard deviation (SD) = 12.7 years) and the mean operating time was 56.3 min (SD = 7.5 min) and ranged from 45 to 72 min. There was no conversion to the traditional large incision cholecystectomy. There were no intra-operative or post-operative complications and there was no mortality in the study. All the patients were discharged 48 h post-op.

Conclusion:
Mini-laparotomy cholecystectomy offers the benefits of a minimally invasive procedure such as good cosmesis and short hospital stay. It has a relatively short operative time and a low incidence of complications and can be practised in a low-resource environment, where laparoscopic services are not available.
Galeo-pericranial flap—A rich pedicle flap for temporisation of large maxillofacial defect: A case report
Authors: Ahmad Mukhtar Modibbo , Taiwo Abdurrazaq Olanrewaju , Suleiman Ibrahim Kayode , Bala Mujtaba , Oyebunmi Braimah Ramat , Sajo Abdulmajeed 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Reconstruction of large facial defects is quite a challenging and difficult task. Various surgical options are available, each with its challenges and complications. Galeo-pericranial flap has provided a suitable technique for reconstruction of radical parotidectomy defects with satisfactory outcomes. A 50-year-old farmer with a histologically diagnosed mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the right parotid gland of 15 years duration had radical parotidectomy and reconstruction of the defect with galeo-pericranial flap. The patient was followed up for 2 years, and the flap was completely taken with no donor site morbidity.
Ophthalmic manifestations of migraine in a Nigerian tertiary health facility
Authors: Bashir Eiman , Abdu Lawan , Isyaku Mohammed , Habib Zahraddeen Garba , Habib Saudat Garba , Kurawa Musbahu Sani , Hassan Sadiq 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background:
Migraine is a group of headache syndromes, with a prevalence of 5%–25%. Migraine is a complex recurrent headache disorder, often unilateral, throbbing or pulsating in nature aggravated by physical activity, bright light, and loud noises. Symptoms associated with migraine without aura are nausea, anorexia, and varying degrees of ophthalmic problems ranging from visual aura, ocular symptoms, and ophthalmoplegia.

Objectives:
The study determined the pattern and ophthalmic manifestations of migraine in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
This was an observational cross-sectional study. Ethical clearance was obtained from the research ethical committee of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH). A total of 254 patients diagnosed with migraine using international headache society criteria attending neurology clinic in AKTH were interviewed and examined using a structured questionnaire which captured the biodata, pattern of migraine and ocular symptoms associated with migraine. The data obtained were collated and analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 23.

Results:
Of the 254 patients examined, there were 95 (37.4%) males and 159 (62.6%) females, (M:F = 1:2) with mean age of 28.9 ± 9.7 years. Migraine without aura was the commonest type seen in 55.8% of patients. Most patients had unilateral headaches. About 52.8% and 57.5% had headaches that were throbbing in nature. The headache lasted for 72 h in 48.2% and 48 h in 30.3%. It was triggered by physical stress in 49.6% and lack of sleep in 46.5%. The commonest associated symptom was nausea in 44.9%, tinnitus in 39.0%, and vomiting in 29.1%. While the commonest ocular/visual symptom was photophobia in 76% of patients. Most of the patients had family history of migraine (62.8%). Migraine without aura (MWOA) was found to be significantly associated with female gender (P = 0.001; OR = 2.48; 95% CI: 1.45–4.25). Scotoma, fortifying spectra were significantly associated with migraine with aura (MWA; P = 0.0004; OR = 28.46; 95% CI: 11.53–70.35).

Conclusion:
Migraine is one of the most common types of primary headache. There is a female preponderance. Migraine has significant association with visual disturbances and ocular symptoms.