Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Extrusion of debris with and without intentional foraminal enlargement – A systematic review and meta-analysis

Aust Endod J. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1111/aej.12539. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This systematic review and meta-analysis was sought to assess whether intentional foraminal enlargement (IFE) is responsible for extrusion of a larger quantity of debris from extracted human teeth with fully formed apexes. Following the recommendations of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis – PRISMA, electronic and manual searches were performed to identify studies that evaluated the extrusion of debris, comparing different apical limits of instrumentation (with/without IFE). The quality of the studies selected was evaluated, and statistical analysis was conducted. To perform the meta-analysis, just 3 papers could be used. The heterogeneity was high, however; there was no statistically significant difference in relation to the extrusion of debris in teeth either submitted or not submitted to IFE. The general risk of bias was moderate. In conclusion, IFE is not responsible for extrusion of a larger quantity of debris from extracted human teeth with fully formed apexes.

PMID:34146366 | DOI:10.1111/aej.12539

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Family History in Non-Syndromic Orofacial Clefts: Is There a Pattern?

Oral Dis. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1111/odi.13942. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To survey the frequency and pattern of family history for non-syndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFC). Initial hypothesis: more complex forms have a higher frequency of positive family history.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was carried with 2,668 subjects with three different types of clefts (CL Group (cleft lip), CLP Group (cleft lip and palate), and CP group (cleft palate)); family history information was collected. The Chi-square (X2 ) and Z-test were used.

RESULTS: A positive family history was found in 31% of the sample. The CLP group had highest percentage and highest proportion of affected relatives, being these factors statistically significant when compared to the CP group. Comparisons between the CLP Male and CL Male with CP Male were statistically significant. First-degree kinship was the most frequently found. Additionally.

CONCLUSIONS: The initial hypothesis was confirmed, subjects with CLP had the highest percentage of positive family history, the highest proportion of affected relatives and had more affected relatives in comparison with CP. It is more common to find affected relatives in the CLP Male and CL Male groups when compared with CP Male. CLP and CP groups present a pattern of occurrence of the type of cleft in the family.

PMID:34146367 | DOI:10.1111/odi.13942

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Comparison of HIV therapy applied in urban and rural areas – results of a retrospective study between Berlin and Greifswald/ Vorpommern

MMW Fortschr Med. 2021 Jun;163(Suppl 2):28-35. doi: 10.1007/s15006-021-9713-1.

ABSTRACT

The steady development of the antiretroviral therapy (ART) has led to a significant change in the demands on the quality of care. There are different regional challenges.It is a non-interventional, bicentric correlation study in the form of a retrospective data analysis including data of 43 HIV-positive patients in Greifswald and 1669 in Berlin. All variables were evaluated with R. Statistical significance was assumed at a p-value of ≤ 0.05.The immunological parameters showed a significantly lower CD4+ T-lymphocyte cell count in patients from Greifswald compared to those from Berlin (B: 516/μl blood; G: 266/μl blood; p < 0.001). The supply of ART was > 80% (B: 153/184 [83.15%]; G: 36/41 [87.8%]; p = 0.64) in both cohorts and led to a permanent (> than 4 quarters) drop of the viral load below the detection limit in 115/184 [62.25%] patients in Berlin and 23/41 [56.09%] patients in Greifswald (p = 0.008).This study has shown that the quality of care for HIV-infected patients in both urban and rural areas is of a high standard and carried out in accordance with the guidelines.

PMID:34146315 | DOI:10.1007/s15006-021-9713-1

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Perilesional sun damage as a diagnostic clue for pigmented actinic keratosis and Bowen’s disease

J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1111/jdv.17464. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Chronic sun damage in the background is common in pigmented actinic keratoses and Bowen’s disease (pAK/BD). While explainable artificial intelligence (AI) demonstrated increased background attention for pAK/BD, humans frequently miss this clue in dermatoscopic images because they tend to focus on the lesion.

AIM: To analyze whether perilesional sun damage is a robust diagnostic clue for pAK/BD and if teaching this clue to dermatoscopy users improves their diagnostic accuracy.

METHODS: We assessed the interrater agreement and the frequency of perilesional sun damage in 220 dermatoscopic images and conducted a reader study with 124 dermatoscopy users. The readers were randomly assigned to one of two online tutorials; one tutorial pointed to perilesional sun damage as a clue to pAK/BD (group A) the other did not (group B). In both groups we compared the frequencies of correct diagnoses before and after receiving the tutorial.

RESULTS: The frequency of perilesional sun damage was higher in pAK/BD than in other types of pigmented skin lesions and interrater agreement was good (kappa=0.675). The diagnostic accuracy for pAK/BD improved in both groups of readers (group A: +16.1%, 95%-CI:9.5-22.7; group B: +13.1%; 95%-CI:7.1-19.0; p for both <0.001), but the overall accuracy improved only in group A from 59.1% (95%-CI:55.0-63.1) to 63.5% (95%-CI:59.5-67.6); p=0.002).

CONCLUSION: Perilesional sun-damage is a good clue to differentiate pAK/BD from other pigmented skin lesions in dermatoscopic images, which could be useful for teledermatology. Knowledge of this clue improves the accuracy of dermatoscopy users, which demonstrates that insights from explainable AI can be used to train humans.

PMID:34146354 | DOI:10.1111/jdv.17464

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Effect of needle gauge on thyroid FNA diagnostic rate

Endocrine. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s12020-021-02797-9. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Thyroid Bethesda classification system provides 6 diagnostic categories, the first being a sample deemed non-diagnostic or insufficient and requiring a subsequent second biopsy. Our objective was to evaluate differences in non-diagnostic fine needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules conducted with a 23-gauge(G) needle vs. those conducted with a 25 G needle.

METHODS: Data from 298 aspiration procedures using either 23 G or 25 G needles were collected, including cytological findings, ultrasound characteristics and patient demographics. The samples were classified as diagnostic or non-diagnostic according to final cytology.

RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the 25 G and 23 G needles in terms of non-diagnostic rates (35.7%, 31.9%; p = 0.494). Nodules defined as cystic had higher non-diagnostic rates (p < 0.05). Older patients as well as cystic nodules were associated with a higher non-diagnostic rate (OR = 1.018, p = 0.047, OR = 13.533, p = 0.0001, respectively), while nodule size was associated with lower non-diagnostic rates (OR = 0.747, p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS: The use of 25 G needle did not produce a lower non-diagnostic rate when compared to 23 G needle. Larger nodules might increase diagnostic rates, while older patients and cystic nodules are prone to inadequate samples. Patients and caregivers should be aware that FNA of small or cystic nodules as well as nodules in older patients may result in a higher non-diagnostic rate. Further research comparing other needles gauges should be conducted.

PMID:34146249 | DOI:10.1007/s12020-021-02797-9

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Root canal instrumentation efficacy of non-fused and fused primary molar roots: a micro-computed tomography study

Eur Arch Paediatr Dent. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s40368-021-00641-2. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Pulpectomy may be indicated in restorable primary teeth exhibiting irreversible pulpitis or pulpal necrosis. The purpose of this study was to compare the cleaning and shaping efficacy of NiTi systems (Reciproc® Blue and MTwo®) with manual stainless-steel instrumentation in primary molars using micro-CT analysis.

METHODS: Fifty-seven maxillary second primary molars were scanned using micro-CT. Teeth with three divergent roots were divided randomly (n = 15) according to instrument type (K file, MTwo®, and Reciproc® Blue). Teeth with root fusion were instrumented manually as a separate group (n = 12). Pre- and post-instrumentation micro-CT images were superimposed, and the instrumentation area (IA) and procedural complications were recorded.

RESULTS: No statistically significant differences in IA between file systems was observed in the non-fused teeth. The mean IA of fused roots was significantly lower than in the non-fused distobuccal (p = 0.003) and palatal (p < 0.001) roots. The root segment had a significant effect on IA (p < 0.001) and the highest mean IA was observed in the apical third. Manual instrumentation had fewer procedural complications compared with rotary systems.

CONCLUSION: No differences were determined in the cleaning and shaping effectiveness of all systems in non-fused teeth. Uninstrumented areas (> 60%) occurred in both non-fused and fused primary teeth with fewer procedural complications observed after manual instrumentation.

PMID:34146251 | DOI:10.1007/s40368-021-00641-2

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Assessment of risk from lead intake in mining areas: proposal of indicators

Environ Geochem Health. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s10653-021-00995-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This study discusses an estimate of the risk associated with the intake of soil contaminated by lead, based on the nature of the source, through a detailed study of the parameters that can influence the bioaccessibility of the element from soil intake. Statistical variables that are related to the solubility and bioavailability of lead are used for this purpose. This includes considering the values of pH, electrical conductivity, particle size, mineralogical composition and the bioaccessibility/bioasimilability of lead. Obtaining an algorithm, represented by different probability distributions of the parameters considered, needs a thorough knowledge of the source materials, which may allow estimating/evaluating the intake health risk provided by the concentration of the metal present. The selected materials are from sites affected by mining activities in the Region of Murcia (SE of Spain) and soils in nearby areas, using a total of 186 samples. Soil samples, once screened and homogenized, were parameterized by determining pH, electrical conductivity, granulometry, both total and water-extractable Pb content. Oral bioaccessibility tests were also performed, and a detailed mineralogical analysis by X-ray diffraction was carried out.

PMID:34146209 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-021-00995-y

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Evaluating the agreement and reliability of a web-based facial analysis tool for rhinoplasty

Int J Comput Assist Radiol Surg. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s11548-021-02423-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Rhinoplasty is one of the most common and challenging plastic surgery procedures. Facial analysis is a crucial step in planning. Utilizing three-dimensional (3D) model of a patient’s face is an emerging way of performing facial analysis. This paper evaluates the agreement and reliability of facial measurements taken using a web app, located at digitized-rhinoplasty.com, that utilizes 3D models of the patient’s face.

METHODS: Eleven measurements were calculated on 16 human subjects. Three methods of measurements were performed: direct measurements on human subjects’ faces, measurements on 2D photographs, and measurements on 3D models of face scans. The Bland-Altman plot is used for testing the agreement between the web app and the well-known Blender 3D modeling software. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was calculated and compared for 2D and 3D methods using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) method. The statistical analysis methods were checked for the normality and homoscedasticity assumptions.

RESULTS: The results indicate that the web app and Blender software show agreement within 95% confidence limits. The web app performs well in intra-rater and inter-rater reliability statistical analysis. The web app’s reliability scores are consistently better than facial analysis software which was found highly reliable in a previous study. We also compare the methods of measurements in terms of time, ease of use, and cost.

CONCLUSION: The utilization of 3D computer modeling for facial analysis has its advantages and started to become more common due to recent advances in technology. The web app utilizes 3D face scans for pre-operative planning and post-operative evaluation of facial surgeries. The web app performs well in agreement and inter-/intra-reliability analysis and performs consistently better than software that works utilizing 2D photographs. The web app provides accurate, repeatable, affordable, and fast facial measurements for facial analysis when compared to direct and 2D methods.

PMID:34146225 | DOI:10.1007/s11548-021-02423-z

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

The successful implementation of the Navio robotic technology required 29 cases

J Robot Surg. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s11701-021-01254-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) has potential benefits of improved restoration of mechanical alignment, accuracy of bony resection, and balancing. The purpose of this study was to determine the number of cases necessary for a single surgeon to achieve a constant, steady-state surgical time. The secondary purpose was to identify which steps demonstrated the most time reduced. This was a prospective study assessing intraoperative time for 60 RA-TKA with the Navio surgical system. Overall arthroplasty time and duration for each step were recorded. Statistical analysis included a nonlinear regression and survival regression. Successful implementation required 29 cases to achieve a steady-state. The average time decreased from 41.8 min for the first cohort to 31.1 min for the last cohort, a 26% decrease. The step with the greatest reduction was the “Review of Intraoperative Plan” with a reduction of 2.1 min. This study demonstrates surgical times averaging below 60 min and a learning curve that is complete in 29 cases with the surgeon reporting a high level of confidence with the system at 10 cases. Though Navio assisted TKA showed a significantly slower operative time, we are hopeful that future generations of robotic technology will be more efficiently implemented by surgeons.

PMID:34146231 | DOI:10.1007/s11701-021-01254-z

Categories
Nevin Manimala Statistics

Periocular rejuvenation using a unique non-ablative long-pulse 2940 nm Er:YAG laser

Lasers Med Sci. 2021 Jun 19. doi: 10.1007/s10103-021-03362-6. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The periocular region is challenging for cosmetic laser surgeons. Surgery and laser resurfacing have traditionally been used to correct periorbital lines and wrinkles. Although effective, the associated downtime with these methods has made many people reluctant to decide for such treatments. More recently, the non-ablative long-pulse 2940 nm Er:YAG laser is being used to improve the structure and function and hence the appearance of skin in the periorbital region. The objective of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of long-pulse 2940 nm Er:YAG laser for non-ablative treatment of periorbital static wrinkles and skin laxity. This is a prospective analysis of 30 patients treated for periorbital rejuvenation using three sessions of non-ablative long-pulse Er:YAG laser over a 3-month period. All patients were assessed according to Fitzpatrick’s classification of periorbital wrinkles to class I, II, or III and were treated with 2940 nm Er:YAG laser using a fluence of 3.75 J/cm2, a repetition rate of 1.7-2 Hz, and with the SMOOTH™ pulse mode (250 ms). The treatment sessions were performed on each patient, 4 weeks apart. Patient improvement was assessed before each laser session as well as at 12 months after the final treatment. Blind photographic evaluations were performed by three independent physicians using unlabeled before and after photos arranged in non-chronological order. Reviewers were asked to determine the before and after photos. Patients were asked to answer a questionnaire measuring satisfaction 4 weeks after each session, and to report any adverse reactions. There was statistically and clinically significant improvement in the Fitzpatrick classification of the periorbital wrinkles. Blinded evaluators correctly identified the before and after photos in all cases. All patients reported mild edema and erythema, which persisted for 1 to 2 days, and superficial peeling of the skin for 4 to 6 days after each laser treatment. No long-term adverse effects were reported. The non-ablative long-pulse 2940 nm Er:YAG laser seems to be a safe and effective treatment for periocular rejuvenation with minimal and tolerable adverse reaction. The improvement attained from the laser sessions was persisting after 1 year denoting the long-term efficacy of the procedure.

PMID:34146192 | DOI:10.1007/s10103-021-03362-6