Neural and Neural Crest-Derived Stem Cell Distribution in the Adult Human Dental Pulp / Distribución de Células Madre Neurales y Derivadas de la Cresta Neural en la Pulpa Dental Humana Adulta

SUMMARY: Despite comprehensive studies and reports about the properties of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in vitro, we still need to confirm whether these in vitro characteristics coincide with the nature of DPSCs in situ. The anatomical location of DPSCs populations in the dental pulp has yet to be investigated. Moreover, the mesenchymal DPSCs have been much more studied than the neural crest-derived DPSCs. In this study, well-recognized neural/neural crest stem cell markers NCAM1, Nestin, SNAIL/SLUG, SOX9, and S100 are being investigated by immunohistochemistry to localize the precise location of these populations of DPSCs within the human adult dental pulp.All previously mentioned markers were expressed in the dental pulp, and their intensity and location of expression were reported.

A pesar de estudios e informes exhaustivos sobre las propiedades de las células madre de la pulpa dental (DPSC) in vitro, todavía necesitamos confirmar si estas características in vitro coinciden con la naturaleza de las DPSC in situ. La ubicación anatómica de las poblaciones de DPSC en la pulpa dental aún no se ha investigado. Además, las DPSC mesenquimales han sido mucho más estudiadas que las DPSC derivadas de la cresta neural. En este estudio, se están investigando mediante inmunohisto química marcadores de células madre de la cresta neural/ neural NCAM1, Nestin, SNAIL/SLUG, SOX9 y S100 para localizar la ubicación precisa de estas poblaciones de DPSC dentro de la pulpa dental humana adulta. Todos los marcadores mencionados anteriormente se expresaron en la pulpa dental y se informó su intensidad y ubicación de expresión.

Shoeshine maneuver for cystic duct dissection: a simple technique to make Calot-triangle dissection smooth

ABSTRACT Purpose: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, introduced in 1985 by Prof. Dr. Erich Mühe, has become the gold standard for treating chronic symptomatic calculous cholecystopathy and acute cholecystitis, with an estimated 750,000 procedures performed annually in the United States of America. The risk of iatrogenic bile duct injury persists, ranging from 0.2 to 1.3%. Risk factors include male gender, obesity, acute cholecystitis, previous hepatobiliary surgery, and anatomical variations in Calot's triangle. Strategies to mitigate bile duct injury include the Critical View of Safety and fundus-first dissection, along with intraoperative cholangiography and alternative approaches like subtotal cholecystectomy. Methods: This paper introduces the shoeshine technique, a maneuver designed to achieve atraumatic exposure of anatomical structures, local hemostatic control, and ease of infundibulum mobilization. This technique involves the use of a blunt dissection tool and gauze to create traction and enhance visibility in Calot's triangle, particularly beneficial in cases of severe inflammation. Steps include using the critical view of safety and Rouviere's sulcus line for orientation, followed by careful dissection and traction with gauze to maintain stability and reduce the risk of instrument slippage. Results: The technique, routinely used by the authors in over 2000 cases, has shown to enhance patient safety and reduce bile duct injury risks. Conclusion: The shoeshine technique represents a simple and easy way to apply maneuver that can help surgeon during laparoscopic cholecystectomies exposing the hepatocystic area and promote blunt dissection.

The Role of Metabolic Syndrome Components in Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Adolescents: A Case-Control Study

Abstract Introduction Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated components were reported as a possible cause of inner ear dysfunction. However, research about the influence of cardiovascular risk factors on hearing thresholds are conducted mainly in adult patients. Objective The aim of the present study was to investigate auditory function in adolescents with MetS compared with healthy controls. Methods One hundred adolescents with metabolic syndrome and 200 sex- and age-matched controls were recruited from a university pediatric endocrine clinic from May 2018 to July 2020. Hearing loss was defined as hearing level ≥ 15 dB at speech frequency (SFHL) or high frequency (HFHL) in one or both ears. A multivariable conditional logistic regression analysis examined the correlation between MetS components and several important demographic characteristics, and hearing loss. Results A total of 165 (55.0%) boys and 135 (45.0%) girls participated in this study. The rates of SFHL and HFHL in adolescents with MetS were 32.0% and 51.0%, respectively. Those values for controls were 5.0% and 15.5%, respectively. The regression analysis showed high triglycerides as a significant predictor for SFHL (odds ratio 10.87; 95% confidence interval: 1.98, 59.74). Neither predictor of interest was significant for HFHL. Conclusion Hypertriglyceridemia may be an important factor in the pathogenesis of SFHL. However, the strength of the association was not significant with a wide confidence interval. Also, we were unable to find an association between predictors and HFHL with the current sample size. Larger and prospective studies are recommended.

Liver Involvement in Individuals with Obesity: A Cross-sectional Study from Western India

Background: Obesity is a largely neglected health problem in developing countries which leads to additional morbidities including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), one of the most important causes of chronic liver disease. Central obesity is intricately related to the pathogenesis of the NAFLD, which over time could result in a fibrogenic response and end-stage liver disease. We have attempted to study the association of various risk factors and laboratory investigations with the incidence of liver involvement in obese individuals. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study of 210 patients was carried out in a tertiary care center in Western India. Patients above 18 years of age with either general or abdominal obesity were included and their history taking and general and systemic examination was done along with laboratory investigations and ultrasonography for visualize any liver involvement. Results: Age >50 years, female gender, postmenopausal state, sedentary lifestyle, high body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and neck circumference were all risk factors for liver involvement in obese individuals. Raised C-reactive protein (CRP), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), triglycerides, low density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, fasting blood sugar (FBS), 2-hour postprandial blood sugar (PP2BS), and low high density lipoprotein (HDL), serum protein, and albumin were significantly associated with liver disease. Patients having high NAFLD fibrosis and BMI, aminotransferace ratio and diabetes (BARD) scores, or Metabolic syndrome (MS) was at a higher risk for liver disease. Conclusion: Advancing age, postmenopausal females, and lack of physical activity are risk factors for liver disease in obesity. Raised CRP and SGOT along with impaired lipid profile and glycemic control could be used as markers for fatty liver in obese individuals. MS greatly increases the risk of liver involvement in obese individuals.

Measurement and Decomposition of Socioeconomic Inequality in Metabolic Syndrome: A Cross-sectional Analysis of the RaNCD Cohort Study in the West of Iran / 예방의학회지

Objectives@#Socioeconomic inequality in metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains poorly understood in Iran. The present study examined the extent of the socioeconomic inequalities in MetS and quantified the contribution of its determinants to explain the observed inequality, with a focus on middle-aged adults in Iran. @*Methods@#This cross-sectional study used data from the Ravansar Non-Communicable Disease cohort study. A sample of 9975 middle-aged adults aged 35-65 years was analyzed. MetS was assessed based on the International Diabetes Federation definition. Principal component analysis was used to construct socioeconomic status (SES). The Wagstaff normalized concentration index (CIn) was employed to measure the magnitude of socioeconomic inequalities in MetS. Decomposition analysis was performed to identify and calculate the contribution of the MetS inequality determinants. @*Results@#The proportion of MetS in the sample was 41.1%. The CIn of having MetS was 0.043 (95% confidence interval, 0.020 to 0.066), indicating that MetS was more concentrated among individuals with high SES. The main contributors to the observed inequality in MetS were SES (72.0%), residence (rural or urban, 46.9%), and physical activity (31.5%). @*Conclusions@#Our findings indicated a pro-poor inequality in MetS among Iranian middle-aged adults. These results highlight the importance of persuading middle-aged adults to be physically active, particularly those in an urban setting. In addition to targeting physically inactive individuals and those with low levels of education, policy interventions aimed at mitigating socioeconomic inequality in MetS should increase the focus on high-SES individuals and the urban population.

The COVID-19 pandemic and healthcare utilization in Iran: evidence from an interrupted time series analysis

Objectives@#This study aimed to examine the effect of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak on the hospitalization rate, emergency department (ED) visits, and outpatient clinic visits in western Iran. @*Methods@#We collected data on the monthly hospitalization rate, rate of patients referred to the ED, and rate of patients referred to outpatient clinics for a period of 40 months (23 months before and 17 months after the COVID-19 outbreak in Iran) from all 7 public hospitals in the city of Kermanshah. An interrupted time series analysis was conducted to examine the impact of COVID-19 on the outcome variables in this study. @*Results@#A statistically significant decrease of 38.11 hospitalizations per 10,000 population (95% confidence interval [CI], 24.93–51.29) was observed in the first month of the COVID-19 outbreak. The corresponding reductions in ED visits and outpatient visits per 10,000 population were 191.65 (95% CI, 166.63–216.66) and 168.57 (95% CI, 126.41–210.73), respectively. After the initial reduction, significant monthly increases in the hospitalization rate (an increase of 1.81 per 10,000 population), ED visits (an increase of 2.16 per 10,000 population), and outpatient clinic visits (an increase of 5.77 per 10,000 population) were observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. @*Conclusion@#Our study showed that the utilization of outpatient and inpatient services in hospitals and clinics significantly declined after the COVID-19 outbreak, and use of these services did not return to pre-outbreak levels as of June 2021.

Endoscopic Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Laparoscopic anterior lumbar interbody fusion (L-ALIF), which employs laparoscopic cameras to facilitate a less invasive approach, originally gained traction during the 1990s but has subsequently fallen out of favor. As the envelope for endoscopic approaches continues to be pushed, a recurrence of interest in laparoscopic and/or endoscopic anterior approaches seems possible. Therefore, evaluating the current evidence base in regard to this approach is of much clinical relevance. To this end, a systematic literature search was performed according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines using the following keywords: “(laparoscopic OR endoscopic) AND (anterior AND lumbar).” Out of the 441 articles retrieved, 22 were selected for quantitative analysis. The primary outcome of interest was the radiographic fusion rate. The secondary outcome was the incidence of perioperative complications. Meta-analysis was performed using RStudio’s “metafor” package. Of the 1,079 included patients (mean age, 41.8±2.9 years), 481 were males (44.6%). The most common indication for L-ALIF surgery was degenerative disk disease (reported by 18 studies, 81.8%). The mean follow-up duration was 18.8±11.2 months (range, 6–43 months). The pooled fusion rate was 78.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 68.9–90.4). Complications occurred in 19.2% (95% CI, 13.4–27.4) of L-ALIF cases. Additionally, 7.2% (95% CI, 4.6–11.4) of patients required conversion from L-ALIF to open surgery. Although L-ALIF does not appear to be supported by studies available in the literature, it is important to consider the context from which these results have been obtained. Even if these results are taken at face value, the failure of endoscopy to have a role in the ALIF approach does not mean that it should not be incorporated in posterior approaches.

Evaluation of the Results of Septum Extension Batten Graft in Patients Referred for Septorhinoplasty

Abstract Introduction Correction of caudal septal deviations has always been a challenging subject in septorhinoplasty. The septum batten extension graft (SBEG) is a new graft that has potential properties in rhinoplasty. However, few reports have evaluated the surgical outcomes of this technique. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of SBEG in correcting caudal septal deviation. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with caudal septal deviation undergoing septorhinoplasty using SBEG at 2 different hospitals in 2019. We then retrospectively reviewed medical records and photographs of 50 patients at the preoperative period, as well as at 1-month, and 12-month postoperatively. Gross changes in nasolabial angle, columellar show, nasal tip projection, and dorsal nasal deviation were evaluated by a photographic analysis method, and nasal obstruction was assessed by patient satisfaction with breathing. Results There was a significant difference between the mean nasolabial angle and columellar show at 1 and 12-months postoperatively, compared with the previous values (p < 0.0001). The nasolabial angles were in a favorable position with an increase of 12 to 15 degrees compared with the preoperative state. The columellar show also improved by an average of 1.2 mm and was in good condition. The postoperative dorsal nasal deviation was significantly reduced, and projection was significantly increased (3.521 ± 0.087 mm vs. 0.719 ± 0.028; p < 0.0001; p < 0.001 ). Moreover, this method had a significant favorable effect on nasal obstruction (p = 0.049). Conclusion Our results showed that septorhinoplasty using SBEG is useful for correcting caudal septal deviation, with favorable surgical outcomes, and it has responded well to all five aforementioned criteria.

The use of POTTER (Predictive Optimal Trees in Emergency Surgery Risk) calculator to predict mortality and complications in patients submitted to Emergency Surgery / O uso do aplicativo POTTER (Predictive Optimal Trees in Emergency Surgery Risk) para prever mortalidade e complicações em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de emergência

ABSTRACT Introduction: the ability of the care team to reliably predict postoperative risk is essential for improvements in surgical decision-making, patient and family counseling, and resource allocation in hospitals. The Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered POTTER (Predictive Optimal Trees in Emergency Surgery Risk) calculator represents a user-friendly interface and has since been downloaded in its iPhone and Android format by thousands of surgeons worldwide. It was originally developed to be used in non-traumatic emergency surgery patients. However, Potter has not been validated outside the US yet. In this study, we aimed to validate the POTTER calculator in a Brazilian academic hospital. Methods: mortality and morbidity were analyzed using the POTTER calculator in both trauma and non-trauma emergency surgery patients submitted to surgical treatment between November 2020 and July 2021. A total of 194 patients were prospectively included in this analysis. Results: regarding the presence of comorbidities, about 20% of the population were diabetics and 30% were smokers. A total of 47.4% of the patients had hypertensive prednisone. After the analysis of the results, we identified an adequate capability to predict 30-day mortality and morbidity for this group of patients. Conclusion: the POTTER calculator presented excellent performance in predicting both morbidity and mortality in the studied population, representing an important tool for surgical teams to define risks, benefits, and outcomes for the emergency surgery population.

RESUMO Introdução: a capacidade da equipe de atendimento de prever de forma confiável o risco pós-operatório é essencial para melhorar a tomada de decisões cirúrgicas, o aconselhamento ao paciente e à família e a alocação de recursos nos hospitais. A calculadora POTTER (Predictive Optimal Trees in Emergency Surgery Risk), alimentada por inteligência artificial (IA) e com uma interface amigável, foi baixada em seu formato para iPhone e Android por milhares de cirurgiões em todo o mundo e foi originalmente desenvolvida para ser usada em pacientes de cirurgia de emergência não traumática. No entanto, a POTTER ainda não foi validada fora dos EUA. Neste estudo, nosso objetivo foi validar a calculadora POTTER em um hospital acadêmico brasileiro. Métodos: a mortalidade e a morbidade foram analisadas usando a calculadora POTTER em pacientes de cirurgia de emergência com e sem trauma submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico entre novembro de 2020 e julho de 2021. Um total de 194 pacientes foi incluído prospectivamente nessa análise. Resultados: Em relação à presença de comorbidades, cerca de 20% da população era diabética e 30%, fumante. Um total de 47,4% dos pacientes eram hipertensos antes da admissão. Após a análise dos resultados, identificamos uma capacidade adequada de prever a mortalidade e a morbidade em 30 dias para esse grupo de pacientes. Conclusão: a calculadora POTTER apresentou um excelente desempenho para prever a morbidade e a mortalidade na população estudada, representando uma ferramenta importante para as equipes cirúrgicas definirem riscos, benefícios e resultados para a população de cirurgia de emergência.

Prevalence of hepatitis B & C infections in prospective blood donors deferred due to history of jaundice

Background & objectives: As per national guidelines, prospective blood donors with a history of jaundice of unknown cause are deferred permanently to prevent the transmission of hepatitis B and C. The validity of this guideline was tested by comparing prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C in prospective blood donors deferred due to a history of jaundice, with that of donors who were found fit. Methods: Blood samples of 212 consecutive donors (male, n=203) deferred due to a history of jaundice were studied for hepatitis B and C by rapid test kits as well as by chemiluminescence (n=115) or ELISA (n=97). Consecutive healthy donors (n=549; male, n=518) were also studied by ELISA (n=266) or chemiluminescence (n=283). Results: The cumulative prevalence detected by rapid test kit and ELISA/chemiluminescence tests of hepatitis B (n=10) and C (n=2) among donors deferred due to a history of jaundice (n=212) was 5.7 per cent [95% confidence interval (CI): 2.9, 9.9]. The prevalence of reactive results among healthy donors (n=549) by ELISA/chemiluminescence tests was 3.3 per cent (95% CI: 1.9, 5.2), which included hepatitis B (n=15) and hepatitis C (n=3) cases. Compared to healthy donors, the odds of seropositivity among jaundice-deferred donors was 1.7 (95% CI: 0.8, 3.6), P=0.15. For rapid test-negative deferred donors, the odds of seropositivity by ELISA/chemiluminescence declined to 0.4 (0.1, 1.5), P=0.19. Interpretation & conclusions: The prevalence rates of hepatitis B and C in prospective blood donors deferred due to a history of jaundice of unknown aetiology did not differ significantly from that in healthy donors. The current practice of permanently deferring such donors depletes valuable donor pool. A strategy of rejecting only those donors who are found reactive on pre-donation testing by rapid test needs further validation.

A comparison between Different Surgical Approaches of Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study in BSMMU, Bangladesh

Background: The Otolaryngologist is currently dealing with a dramatic problem the nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. The posterolateral wall of the nasal cavity, close to the superior margin of the sphenopalatine foramen, is where the tumor commonly first appeared.Material & Methods:The Otolaryngology & Head Neck Surgery department at Bangabandhu Shiekh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, and Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital in Dhaka undertook this retrospective cross-sectional study. The research was done from February 2012 to November 2012. The study’s overall sample size was 30.Results:The majority of individuals (54%) who have nasopharyngeal angiofibroma are between the ages of 16 and 20. the majority of patients have similar symptoms such epistaxis, nasal blockage, nasal discharge, anemia, and masses in the nasal cavity. At presentation, anaemia is present to various degrees in 90% of cases. The lateral rhinotomy method is employed (40%) more often than other approaches. Three blood units were to be transfused into a maximum of 36.66% of the patients throughout the surgery.Conclusion:Nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is currently a difficult issue for otolaryngologists. When endoscopy was used instead of open techniques, we discovered that the mean length of the procedure was shorter, which may be related to endoscopy’s decreased morbidity.

Comparative of flexural strength, hardness, and fluoride release of two bioactive restorative materials with RMGI and composite resin

Aim: This study was fulfilled to evaluate the flexural strength, micro-hardness, and release of two fluoride ions of bioactive restorative materials (Cention N and Activa Bioactive), a resin modified glass ionomer (Fuji II LC), and a resin composite (Filtek z250). Methods: Forty samples from four restorative materials (Activa Bioactive, Fuji II LC, Cention N, and Filtek Z250) were provided according to the current standards of ISO 4049/2000 guide lines. Subsequently, the samples were stored for 24 hours and 6 months in artificial saliva, and successively, flexural strength and micro-hardness of the samples were measured. For each studied groups the pH was decreased from 6.8 to 4 in storage solution. The rate of changes in fluoride ion release was measured after three different storage periods of 24 hours, 48 hours, and 6 months in distilled water, according to the previous studies' method. Two-way ANOVA, One-way ANOVA, Tukey HSD Pair wise comparisons, and independent t-tests were used to analyze data (α= 0.05). Results: The highest flexural strength and surface micro-hardness after 24 hours and also after 6 month were observed for Cention N(p<0.001).Flexural strength of all samples stored for 6 months was significantly lower than the samples stored for 24 hours(p<0.001). The accumulative amount of the released fluoride ion in RMGI, after six-month storage period in distilled water was considerably higher (p<0.001) than 24 hours and 48 hours storage. The amount of fluoride ion release with increasing acidity of the environment (from pH 6.8 to 4) in Fuji II LC glass ionomer was higher than the bioactive materials (p<0.05). Conclusion: The flexural strength of RMGI was increased after storage against the Activa Bioactive,Cention N and Z250 composite. Storage of restorative materials in artificial saliva leads to a significant reduction in micro hardness. The behavior and amount of released fluoride ions in these restorative materials, which are stored in an acidic environment, were dependent on the type of restorative material

Etiology and Risk Factors of Iron Deficiency Anemia in Children under Five Years: A Cross-sectional Study in 250 Bedded General Hospital, Thakurgaon

Background: Although there are several potential contributing factors to iron deficiency anemia in young children, eating foods with low levels of bioavailable iron is probably the biggest one. Young children are most at risk for iron deficiency due to fast development and usually insufficient dietary iron intake. The aim of this study was to assess the etiology and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia in children under five years.Material & Methods:This cross-sectional study was conducted in 250 bedded general hospital, Thakurgaon, Bangladesh, during the period from December 2020 to January 2022. Total 100 children having iron deficiency anemia under five years were included in this study.Results:Among 100 children with iron deficiency anemia, more than half (51%) of the children were in the age group of less than 1 year. Majority (52%) of the children were female. Most of the children (42%) were from low income family. More than half (65%) of the children had mild anemia. Inadequate iron-based food intake was the commonest (72%) causes of the study patient. Children taking iron supplementation was 14% and mothers taking iron supplementation during pregnancy was 67%. Dietary diversity score was poor for most of the children (59%). 67% had low birth weight and 28% had overweight. Children with early (<6 months) introduction of complementary foods was more than half (68%).Conclusions:Inadequate iron-based food intake is the commonest causes of iron deficiency anemia. Children mothers taking iron supplementation during pregnancy, low dietary diversity score, low birth weight and early (<6 months) introduction of complementary foods are the main risk factors.

Individual memories and coping with the COVID-19 lockdown: Family members' experiences

INTRODUCTION: Understanding the psychological and behavioral reactions to emerging infectious diseases is crucial in managing outbreaks. This study sought to explain family members' experiences of individual memories and coping with the COVID-19 lockdown. METHODS: An exploratory, descriptive and qualitative research was conducted by content analysis in Lorestan province, Iran. The purposive sampling was continued by achieving data saturation, reaching 29 samples. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted to family members who stayed at home during the COVID-19-induced lockdown. The data was collected from October 2020 to February 2021. Content analysis presented by Graneheim and Lundman was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: The findings of this study contained 100 codes and five categories with its respective subcategories. Categories included taking advantage of opportunities (increasing intimate communication in the family; compensation and progress), coping mechanisms (creating fun and creativity at home; trying to spend leisure time; sports, reading books, music; increasing patience and tolerance; and forced Internet communications), social aspects (positive and negative), outcomes (gratefulness, pleasure, and happiness; concerns; psychological aspects; and damage and challenge to the foundation of families), and economic aspects (cost savings; recession/job loss/financial downturn; and low-income families' unaffordability to prepare electronics for education). CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic and its induced-lockdown have affected various aspects of family life and its pros and cons have been presented by the participants. Policymakers must design and implement programs in line with this change in the public's lifestyles so that families are not damaged.

Correlation of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration, Abdominal Aortic Calcification on Plain X-ray and Pineal Gland Calcification at CT in Patients with Low Back Pain

Background: The lumbar spine, or low back, is a remarkably well-engineered structure of interconnecting bones, joints, nerves, ligaments, and muscles all working together to provide support, strength, and flexibility. However, this complex structure also leades the low back susceptible to injury and pain. To find out the correlations among plain radiographic findings of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration, abdominal aortic calcification & CT findings of pineal gland calcification in low back pain subjects. Material & Methods:This observational analytical study was carried out in the Department of Radiology and imaging of the Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2012. A total of 100 subjects attending the department of Radiology and imaging, BIRDEM for X-ray of the Lumbosacral spine and CT scan of the brain with low back pain were enrolled first for the study. A complete history was taken either from the patient or accompanying attendants. Relevant investigations reports were collected. All the information was recorded in the data collection sheet. Collected data were classified, edited, coded and entered into the computer for statistical analysis by using SPSS-23.Results:The mean age of study subjects was 61.26 years with a standard deviation of the mean (SD) of 13.34 years and their age ranged from 41 to 74 years. It was observed that nearly two-thirds (61.7%) of the subjects were male and 38.3% were female and the male-female ratio was 1.6:1. It was seen that majority of the subjects had a density of the Pineal gland ranging from +51 to +150 HU. Only 4 subjects had a density of Pineal gland ranging from +351 to +1000 HU. Meant SD density of the Pineal gland among a total of 30 subjects was 136.98164.11 HU. In Group X, the density of Pineal Gland was 83,57 14.45 HU. The density of the Pineal gland was 134.65±13.23HU and 151.66+21.32 HU in Group Y and Group Z respectively. Some parameters of the degenerative disc disease and aortic wall calcification. had a significant positive association with calcification. with the density of Pineal gland calcification.Conclusions:The study was undertaken to find out the Correlation between lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration, abdominal aortic calcification on plain X-ray and Pineal gland calcification at CT in low back pain subjects. The data obtained showed that the density of pineal gland calcification is statistically significant with increasing age. There was also a positive association between intradiscal calcification and density of pineal gland calcification, but no significant association among other parameters with the density of pineal gland calcification

Evaluation of Treatment of Congenital Pseudarthrosis of Tibia by IlizarovMethod

Background: Congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia, a rare but well-known disorder, has been remarkably resistant to all types of therapy designed to promote healing. Successful treatment consists of the union of the pseudarthrosis and maintenance of that union without malunion, re-fracture, or excessive shortening (<2cm) of the leg. The principle of treatment of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia (CPT) with the Ilizarov method corrects all angular deformities and maximizes the cross-sectional area of the pseudarthrosis. Nineteen patients with a total of 19 CPT were treated using the Ilizarov apparatus. CPT is the most perplexing challenging pediatric orthopaedic problem especially when the patient of below years of age and has a history of the previous operations and tibia narrow and osteoporotic. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of treatment of CPT by the Ilizarov method. Material & Methods:The prospective study was done from July 2008 to June 2010 at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Dhaka. Various forces were used to treat the pseudarthrosis site including compression, distraction, open reduction, resection and shortening, resection and bone transport, and a temporary intramedullary k-wire given through calcaneum and talus into the tibial medullary cavity.Results:Lengthening was performed in all except one of the 19 patients. One patient had developed nonunion in both the pseudarthrosis site and proximal corticotomy site. The deformity was tried to correct in all cases. The union rate was 94.73% with one treatment. There were three early re-fracture. Eight patients. had a persistent residual deformity of ankle valgus from 5-9 degrees and five patients had residual angular deformity at the pseudarthrosis site from 5-10 degrees.Conclusions:One patient’s angulation degree required revision surgery, Ilizarov. All patients were given Previous sites, residual angular deformity, and natural history were considered predisposing factors for re-fracture. Two re-fractures united with months (range 10 months). This technique produced initial pseudarthrosis with the correction associated with deformity inequality. angulation and valgus.

The Outcome of Coverage of Upper Tibia by Medial Gastromyocutaneous Flap

Background: The treatment of exposed bone of the upper tibia with local gastrocnemius flaps enables satisfactory results in covering exposed structures, favouring local vascularization and improving the healing. It offers the advantage of treatment in only one stage surgical procedure, an earlier recovery and reduced hospital stay. The standard methods for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the upper third of the leg include gastrocnemius but sometimes the wound is as such that gastrocnemyocutanious is small for the wound and taking soleus for the rest of it is too much. Along with length gastrocnemyocutanious also adorable coverage.To evaluate the outcome of coverage of exposed upper tibia by a medial gastrocnemyocutanious flap. Material & Methods:This Quasi-experimental study is to be carried out in the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Sher-E Bangla Nagar, Dhaka from July 2016 to June 2018. Detailed information was obtained in each case according to protocol. A complete history was taken either from the patient or accompanying attendants. A thorough clinical examination was done. Relevant investigation reports were collected. All the information was recorded in the data collection sheet. Collected data were classified, edited, coded and entered into the computer for statistical analysis by using SPSS-23. Results:The mean age was found 35.6113.2 years. The male-female ratio was 9:1. All (100.0%) patients were found with a proximal injury. The majority (75.0 %) of patients were found with a right leg injury and 5(25.0%) with a left leg injury. The majority (90.0 %) of patients were found complete survival, 1(5.0%) was partial necrosis and 1(5.0%) was marginal. necrosis. The mean duration of operation was found 125.0130.0 minutes with a range from 90 to 150 minutes. Two (10.0%) patients had flap infection, 2(10.0%) had recipient site infection, 1(5.0%) had donor site infection, 1(5.0%) had wound discharge and 1(5.0%) had superficial epidermolysis. Majority (85.0%) patients had excellent or good, 2(10.0%) had regular and 1(5.0%) had unsatisfactory.Conclusions:Gastromyocutaneous flap is still one of the best commodities to cover problem wounds in the upper leg, favouring the local blood supply and the improvement of the initial injury. Even in extensive complicated trauma, it is useable. Its harvest does not involve a sacrifice of major blood vessels and has no or little effect on gait.

Transscleral vs transpupillary diode laser photocoagulation for the treatment of zone II type 1 retinopathy of prematurity: Anatomical and refractive outcomes

Purpose: To compare the anatomical and refractive outcomes of transscleral diode versus transpupillary laser photocoagulation for the treatment of zone II type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Methods: In this prospective comparative interventional case series, infants with type 1 ROP in zone II were assigned to either transpupillary or transscleral laser based on the surgeons’ expertise area. The rate of regression, need for retreatment, and structural and biometric outcomes at month 6 were evaluated and compared between the two treatment groups. Results: In total, 209 eyes were enrolled; 145 eyes of 77 infants and 64 eyes of 33 infants and were in transscleral and transpupillary groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the groups. There was no significant difference in retreatment rates (1.6% vs. 3.4%; P = 0.669) and progression to stage 4 (1.6% vs. 2.8%; P = 0.999) between the transpupillary and transscleral groups, respectively. At month 6, the mean spherical equivalent was 0.31 ± 3.57 and 0.44 ± 2.85 diopters, and the axial length was 18.28 ± 6.22 and 18.36 ± 6.87 mm in the transpupillary and transscleral groups, respectively, without a significant difference between groups. There was no significant difference in the rate of myopia (43.8% vs. 33.8%; P = 0.169) and high myopia (4.7% vs. 4.8%; P = 0.965) in transpupillary and transscleral groups at month 6. Conclusion: The transpupillary and transscleral laser photocoagulation routes are both effective in the treatment of zone II type 1 ROP and show no significant differences in anatomical or refractive outcomes in relation to the route chosen.

Evaluation of the role of perceived quality and satisfaction of beneficiaries about the health care services and benefits of community clinics in Bangladesh

Introduction@#Community clinics provide one-stop healthcare services that is vital in primary healthcare. Measuring users' contentment is imperative to improving the quality of care at the doorsteps of the people. This article focuses on community clinics' importance and overall client satisfaction in Bangladesh. @*Methods@#A cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to April 2019. Sixteen Upazilas from eight districts in Bangladesh were randomly selected for conducting interviews. The survey compiled local data regarding client satisfaction with the health care service of community clinics in Bangladesh.@* Results@#A total of 760 female participants provided data. The majority (41%) were in the age group 18-24 years. This group showed more satisfaction than others (Odds Ratio 1.44). Childless married women were also more satisfied with the community clinic services than others (Odds Ratio 1.64). Furthermore, gender, education, and economic perspective were positive aspects of getting service from community clinics. @*Conclusion@#Although there is a challenge balancing psychosocial and medical care, promoting client-oriented care with a focus on overall comfort concerning the culture of the area is vital. This can be done with community-focused training and explaining written prescriptions better, including signs, symptoms, treatment, and referral points. Government backing has also been shown to be a strengthening source regarding primary healthcare services.

Study the effect of 3,4-Methylenedioxy methamphetamine on cytochrome P450 2E1 activity

Abstract Evaluating the effects of ecstasy on CYP2E1 activity is of great concern, mainly due to growing trends in abuse and co-administration of MDMA with ethanol and the dominant role of this isoenzyme on ethanol metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MDMA on CYP2E1 activity. A total of 24 male rats were selected and divided into three groups. The first and second groups consisted of 12 rats and were employed to optimize the perfusion method, and the third group was employed for studying the alteration of CYP2E1 activity after liver exposure to MDMA (300 and 600 ng/ml). The amount of chlorzoxazone and 6-hydroxy chlorzoxazone in a sample obtained from liver perfusion before and after exposure to a buffer containing MDMA was determined by HPLC-FL. The enzymatic activity of rat CYP2E1 decreased after liver perfusion with a buffer containing 600 ng/ml of MDMA. However, no significant changes were observed in chlorzoxazone and 6-hydroxy chlorzoxazone concentration in perfusate before and after liver perfusion with a buffer containing 300 ng/ml of MDMA. Our findings suggest that the activity of CYP2E1 in rats might decrease only after administration of MDMA at a lethal dose. However, further animal and human studies are needed to confirm our assumption.