bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of patients with severe asthma in primary and secondary care settings considered eligible for biological therapy – the Bulgarian RECOGNISE study
Authors: Ivanov Yavor , Hodzhev Vladimir , Vulkova-Gospodinova Diana , Stoyanova Anelia , Mihaylov Svetlan , Dzhambazova Veselka , Aleksandrova Radka , Aron Erdal , Zhelev Filip 
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Asthma is a major non-communicable disease. It affects both children and adults, but is the most common chronic condition among the former. While inhaled controller drugs stabilize the disease in most asthma patients, there are a certain number of people who suffer from severe asthma, which requires treatment escalation. Oral corticosteroids are usually added, but they are associated with various side effects that may limit their application. The introduction of biologicals targeting inflammatory mediators has opened a new era of asthma treatment highlighting the importance of patient characterization.
Aim: The RECOGNISE study sought to provide real-world insight into the characteristics of patients deemed eligible for biological therapy based on the judgment of the clinical investigator in primary and secondary care settings.
Materials and methods: The RECOGNISE study was a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional, one-visit study to characterize those severe asthma patients who are considered eligible for biological therapy among asthma patients in primary and secondary care settings in Bulgaria. Female and male asthma patients over 18 years of age were enrolled at four sites across the country. Severe asthma diagnosis had to be in agreement with the American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) guidelines. Patients provided patient-reported outcomes on asthma control and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Investigators completed specifically designed electronic case report forms (eCRFs), which included demographics and medical history. Medical history included lung function, biomarkers, comorbidities, exacerbations, Healthcare Resource Utilization (HRU), and prescribed asthma medication in the last 12 months as well as adherence to medication.
Results: Ninety-two severe asthma patients were enrolled in the Bulgarian RECOGNISE study (females prevailing – 65.22%). The median age (range) at diagnosis was 40 (18, 74) years. Most patients were never-smokers (n=72, 78.26%). For eligible patients, the median total EOS blood count was 431.0 cells/µl (n=19) and the blood EOS percentage was 5.95% (n=64). Chronic OCS use (treatment maintenance with OCS for ≥50% of the previous year) was documented for 30.1% of eligible patients. The results from the Bulgarian RECOGNISE cohort show that 90.2% of the severe asthma patients from the primary and secondary care sites are eligible for treatment with the approved biologicals.
Conclusions: The current findings emphasize how crucial it is for patients with severe asthma to be monitored by an asthma specialist who can determine when it is time to switch to biologicals.
Corneal Stromal Fragmentation Instead of Cataract Fragmentation During Femtosecond Laser–Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): Case Report
Authors: Cruz Emerson M. , Ang Robert Edward T. 
Published: June 2023

Purpose:
To report a case of a misdirected laser beam delivery on the cornea instead of cataract fragmentation during femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery (FLACS).

Methods:
An 88-year-old man underwent FLACS. Intraoperatively, inadvertent movement led to loss of suction wherein the supposed laser beam cataract fragmentation was shifted on the corneal side. One day postoperatively, there was a formed chamber and clear central cornea with no signs of edema in the fragmented part. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed various cuts in the endothelium extending to the anterior one-third of the cornea. Slit-lamp photographs documented the extent of circular and linear cuts in the paracentral and limbal 3-o'clock position location in the cornea.

Conclusions:
It is important that cataract surgeons be aware of this potential for corneal injury so that proper intraoperative management can be instituted suitably.

[
Journal of Refractive Surgery Case Reports
. 2023;3(2):e19–e23.]
Vision and sports: An overview
Authors: Ramaja Joas R. , Hansraj Rekha 
Published: June 2023

Background: Visual skills and their components are thought to be responsible for much of the manner whereby athletes obtain information about the sporting environment. The field of sports vision deals with the vision care services that are provided to athletes. If visual skills of athletes are not assumed as natural attributes, they should be assessed and be subjected to training according to need. Studies have shown that the visual abilities of the athletes can be divided into software and hardware visual skills, and it is the software visual skills that separate expert athletes from non-experts.Aim: The study aims to collate (1) studies that show the importance of visual skills in sports performance, (2) studies that show that visual skills are trainable and (3) studies that show the effect of training on the visual skills and performance in sports.Method: An extensive search of literature was performed on studies that supported the importance of vision in sports performance. Also included were studies that supported the transfer of improved visual skills to improved performance on the field of play.Results: There is literature that supports the significance of visual skills in sport. There is also literature that attempts to show evidence that improved visual skills can improve performance on the field of play.Conclusion: Sports vision practitioners need to develop standardised testing and training protocols for visual skills. Standard protocols will harmonise the development of visual skills norms.Contribution: Literature has shown the importance of vision in sports performance. Literature has also shown that improved visual skills can improve performance on the field of play. The current paper is an attempt at calling for the development of standardised protocols and norms for sports vision training.
Clinical and Radiographic Evaluation of Locally Delivered Plant Stem Cells for Treatment of Periodontitis: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Elboraey Mohamed Omar , Sabra Reda Saber , Gamal Sherouk Mohamed Mohamed 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background:
Periodontitis causes the destruction of soft and hard tissues. Stem cells have immense potential in regenerative cellular therapy. This clinical trial aimed to evaluate clinically and radiographically the effectiveness of the local application of Edelweiss stem cells as a nonsurgical treatment for stage III periodontitis.

Materials and Methods:
The trial included 40 periodontal pockets in participants who have stage III periodontitis with probing pocket depth (PPD) ≥5 mm and clinical attachment loss (CAL) ≥5 mm. Pockets were randomly divided into two groups Group 1: was given oral hygiene instruction, scaling, root planing, and subgingival application of plant stem cells on gel foam carrier after that a periodontal dressing was applied. The procedures were repeated after 2 weeks. Group 2: was treated only by scaling and root planing. Gingival index, CAL, and PPD were measured at baseline and 3 months’ posttherapy. The radiographical evaluation was done by digital long-cone parallel periapical radiographs at baseline and 6 months posttherapy.

Results:
Clinical parameters for both groups showed a statistically significant improvement. Regarding radiographic evaluation, there was a significant increase in bone density in favor of the study group.

Conclusions:
Locally applied Edelweiss stem cells can be considered a promising nonsurgical treatment modality for periodontal regeneration.
Evaluation and Comparison of Cervical Spine Posture in Class II Division I Patients Treated with Twin Block Appliances, Forsus Appliances, and Bilateral Sagittal Split Osteotomy: A Cephalometric Study
Authors: Krishna S. S. Suji , Shashikumar B. , Naik Roopak D. 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background:
It has been speculated that a change in cervical spine posture occurs due to forward repositioning of the mandible. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate and compare the cervical spine posture in Class II division one patient treated with three different treatment modalities.

Materials and Methods:
A retrospective cohort study was conducted using pre and post-treatment lateral cephalograms of Class II Division one patients who have undergone orthodontic therapy using twin block appliance, Forsus, and bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO). This study included a total of 57 subjects comprising 19 subjects in each group. Seven cervical, three sagittal, and one vertical parameters were compared within and between each group. The data were tested using the Dependent t-test, One-way analysis of variance, and Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results:
A significant difference existed between the pre- and post-treatment angular measurements within the three groups showing a change in the cervical spine posture with forward positioning of the mandible. A comparison of mean changes in angular measurements between the three groups showed a significant difference in SNA, SNB, ANB, and odontoid process tangent-cervical vertebral tangent (OPT-CVT), indicating a change in the cervical posture.

Conclusion:
OPT-CVT angle predicts a change in cervical spine posture after treatment with a significant difference in the Twin Block group (P = 0.029) compared to Forsus and BSSO groups. Thus, the twin block group results in a more upright craniocervical posture than the other two treatment groups.
Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Fluoride-Based and Self-Assembling Peptide P11-4-based Tooth Remineralization Agents on Streptococcus mutans: A Microbiological Study
Authors: Gayas Zaina , Azher Umme , Paul Santhosh T. , Selvan Arul , Reddy C. Divya , Raghu D. , Uday Vishnu 
Published: June 2023

Abstract

Background:
Dental caries is a biofilm-related oral disease that continues to afflict the majority of the world’s population. The disease results from an interaction between specific bacteria and dietary constituents within a biofilm known as dental plaque. Among the cariogenic microorganisms, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) plays pivotal role in caries-inducing processes.

Objectives:
Evaluate and compare the antimicrobial efficacy of self-assembling peptide P11-4-based tooth remineralization agents on S. mutans.

Materials and Methods:
An in vitro microbiological study. The antibacterial efficacy of self-assembling peptide P11-4 gel (Group 1), fluoride enhanced hydroxyapatite gel (Group 2), acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (Group 3), chlorhexidine gluconate gel 1.0% w/w (Group 4; positive control), and normal saline (Group 5; negative control) was performed using time-kill assay over a period of 24 h and the number of S. mutans colony-forming units (CFUs) were calculated.

Statistical Analysis:
Statistical analysis was done using Kruskal–Wallis test and Mann–Whitney post hoc Test. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:
Group 1 showed mean CFUs (× 103) of 841.33 ± 3.51, Group 2 showed 10035.33 ± 60.68, Group 3 showed 1058.00 ± 56.96, Group 4 showed 0.00 ± 0.00, and Group 5 showed mean CFUs with 15226.67 ± 96.67. The difference in the mean CFUs (× 103) between different groups was statistically significant at P < 0.001.

Conclusion:
The self-assembling peptide P11-4-based tooth remineralization agent exhibited an inhibitory influence on S. mutans and hence formation of cariogenic bacteria dominant biofilm can thus be affected by its application.
Rehabilitation and follow up of a Case of Periodontitis - Generalized, Stage IV, Grade B, Progressive, and with no Risk Factors
Authors: Puthalath Sreekanth , Santhosh V. C. , Nath Sameera G. , Viswanathan Reshmi 
Published: June 2023

Abstract
Periodontitis results in loss of periodontal attachment. This case report focuses on diagnosing a special case of periodontitis that required extreme care and maintenance. The peculiarities of this case are that based on 1999 American Academy of Periodontology classification this is a case of generalized aggressive periodontitis, but as per the recent 2017 classification, this is a case of periodontitis – generalized, Stage IV, Grade B, progressive and with no risk factors. Although this case is ideal for surgical management using regenerative techniques, it has been limited to mechanical therapy and laser due to patient-related economical factors. Within the limitations, this case has been successfully managed by dental laser and strategic implants. Despite all the limitations, 1-year follow-up shows periodontal stability and bone regeneration as evidenced through series of panoramic radiographs (OPG).
An Analysis of the Role of Traditional Institutions in Development
Authors: Keatimilwe Nonqaba Tebogo , Ndevu Zwelinzima 
Published: June 2023

Recently, the Government of Eswatini was criticised for being undemocratic amidst appeals for constitutional and political reform. The coexistence of ‘traditionalism’ and ‘modernism’ is an intrinsic feature of the political system in Eswatini. This study analysed this dualism and linked the colonial past of Eswatini to the political and public administration traditions that challenge development. It enhances the existing body of knowledge of the Eswatini political system by providing insight into the key features of the Tinkhundla system of government. The study also explored the extent to which constitutionally recognised traditional institutions are expected to contribute towards development based on policy and how that contribution takes effect in reality. The study further analysed the Tinkhundla system of government and identified the attributes that contest its viability. The institutional weaknesses that challenge development were also evaluated. This context is significant because Eswatini is confronted by civil unrest as a result of pressure to effect political reformation. The qualitative research methodology was adopted, whereby both primary and secondary data were gathered. Legislation, literature, and government documents were reviewed and unstructured interviews were conducted with key informants. The findings revealed serious legislative inadequacies that contribute to institutional inefficiency and a lack of clarity regarding the functional aspects of the lower levels of government, specifically chiefdom administration. The most critical recommendation offered in this paper calls for a comprehensive and impartial institutional and constitutional review to reconfigure the distribution of power and redefine the relationship between the state and civil society.
Post-African Fashion The Bathu Sneaker Story
Authors: Sidogi Pfunzo 
Published: June 2023

In this paper, I use the notion of Post-Africanism to rationalise the Bathu sneaker brand as an exemplar of post-African fashion in South Africa. Founded in 2015 by Theo Baloyi, Bathu has become an iconic and highly lucrative sneaker business that is synonymous with the apparel and street culture trends of youthful Black urbanites in South Africa. A discussion of the significance of sneakers within the global urban ecosystem is presented as a backdrop to the semiotic analysis of Bathu. The main argument proposed in this article is that the Bathu story is symbolic of how post-African innovation is a viable alternative to cultivating and growing the country’s fashion industry, informed by the African experience but not limited to the logic of Afrocentrism.
Characterization and antibiotic susceptibility of Escherichia coli isolated from selected internal organs of donkeys slaughtered in abattoirs in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Esonu M.C. , Kwanashie C.N. , Mamman P.H. , Esonu D.O. 
Published: June 2023

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a natural inhabitant of the gastrointestinal tract of both humans and animals. Several strains exist some are harmless while some are pathogenic causing various fatal conditions in both humans and animals. To characterize and determine the antibiotic susceptibility patterns of E. coli isolated from liver, spleen and intestine of donkeys slaughtered in Maraban Idah, Kaduna State, Nigeria, a total of 384 samples were collected from 128 donkeys from April to August 2018. The samples were processed using standard methods of cultural enrichment, growth on selective media, biochemical and antibiotics susceptibility test. The overall isolation rate was 5.2% with organ distribution of 4.7%. 4.7% and 6.3% for intestine, liver and spleen, respectively. Escherichia coli was slightly higher in the spleen than in the liver and intestine though there was no significant association (p = 0.810) between the presence of E. coli and the organs sampled. Most of the isolates were susceptible to ciprofloxacin (90%), enrofloxacin (80%) and colistin (70%) while some were highly resistant to common antibiotics such as penicillin (95%), oxytetracycline (90%) and amoxycilline (75%). Most of the isolates (75%) displayed resistance to two (2) different classes of antimicrobials with a total of 5 resistance patterns. Therefore, there is a need for education and public awareness regarding hygienic processing and consumption of offals of slaughtered donkeys. Also, further studies should be done to ascertain the genes responsible for resistance toantimicrobials observed in the E. coli isolates from the slaughtered donkeys.
Epidemiology and antibiogram of listeria species from retail raw frozen atlantic mackerel fish (Scomber scombrus) in Nigeria
Authors: Okorie-Kanu O.J. , Anyanwu M.U. , Okosi R.I. , Oyeleye F.A. , Olorunleke S.O. , Mgbeahuruike A.C. , Anyaoha C.O. , Ejiofor T.E. , Majesty-Alukagberie L.O. , Okorie-Kanu C.O. , Ezenduka E.V. 
Published: June 2023

This study was undertaken to determine the epidemiology and antibiogram of Listeria species isolated from raw frozen Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber Scombrus) fish sold in Enugu State Southeastern Nigeria. Twentyfive grams each of raw fish gut and skin were collected from 800 raw fish sold in 8 major markets randomly selected from the study area. Isolation of Listeria was done using half and full fraser broths, and polymyxin acriflavine lithium chloride ceftazidime aesculin mannitol (PALCAM) agar. Confirmation of the genus Listeria was done by a polymerase chain reaction. Identification of species was done using an analytic profile index (API) kit specific for Listeria. The antibiotic resistance of the isolates was determined using disc diffusion method. Out of the 800 fish samples, 38 (4.75%) were positive for Listeria species. Enugu North (6.50%) had significantly (P<0.05) higher prevalence than Enugu East (3.0%). Five Listeria species were identified. Listeria innocua (71.1%) predominated, followed by Listeria welshimeri (10.5%), Listeria ivanovii (7.9%), Listeria grayi (5.3%) and Listeria monocytogenes (5.3%). All the isolates were susceptible to the tested antibacterial agents. The occurrence of Listeria species in raw frozen Atlantic mackerel fish, poses a threat, when consumed raw or lightly cooked, to people especially the immunocomprormised persons whose population is increasing as a result of improvement in medical technology. Also, the possibility of cross contamination in the kitchen or food service establishments is also a concern. Since all the Listeria species got in this study showed 100% susceptibility to all the antimicrobials tested, therefore, there is no fear of acquiring and transferring antibiotic resistance genes from raw frozen Atlantic mackerel fish to the general human population.
Honey improves radiographic features of monosodium iodoacetate-induced stifle (knee) joint osteoarthritis in a rat model
Authors: Jimoh-Abdulghaffaar H.O. , Obalowu A.M. , Aliyu A. , Jimoh O.S. , Owoyele B.V. 
Published: June 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of joint disease with over half of all people older than 65 years demonstrating radiographic changes of osteoarthritis in the knees. Honey is known to contain bioactive compounds that exert chondroprotective effects by counteracting the homeostatic dysregulation of the joint. However, its effect on the radiographic features of osteoarthritis has not been proven. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of honey on radiographic features of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)- induced knee osteoarthritis in female Wistar rats. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups of six animals each. Animals in group one were healthy (control) rats, while animals in groups two to five were subjected to experimental osteoarthritis of the right knee joint induced by a single intra-articular injection of 1mg of MIA. The animals in groups two, three, four, and five were treated with normal saline (1ml/kg b. w.), arthocare (glucosamine/chondroitin sulfate 6.67/8.33mg/kg b. w.), low dose honey (250mg/kg b. w.) and high dose honey (1,000mg/kg b. w.) respectively. All treatments were administered orally once daily using an oral cannula for twenty-one days. All animals were subjected to radiographic assessment of the right knee joint before and after induction of OA, and after treatment. High and low-dose honey reversed the loss of joint space; sclerosis of the tibial plateau, medial, and lateral femoral condyles, when compared to the arthocare-treated and untreated groups. In conclusion, honey improved radiographic features of knee osteoarthritis in a rat model induced by monosodium iodoacetate.