Objective: The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of soft tissue calcifications in the head and neck using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine their clinical importance. Subjects and Methods: Soft tissue calcifications in the head and neck region were retrospectively evaluated in 1557 CBCT images obtained between 2013 and 2015. The findings were categorized as follows: tonsillolith (calcified tonsil), carotid artery calcification (CAC), sialolith (salivary stone), calcified triticeous cartilage (CTC), calcified lymph node (CLN), rhinolith, antrolith, calcification of the superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage (CSCTC), calcified stylohyoid ligaments (CSL), myositis ossifican, osteoma cutis, and intracranial calcification. A Chi-square test was performed for categorical variables. In the 1557 CBCT images, 520 (33.4%) contained had at least one soft tissue calcification in the head and neck region. Results: Tonsilloliths (18.8%) were the most prevalent soft tissue calcification, followed by CTC (5.8%), CAC (4.3%), intracranial calcifications (3.9%), CSL (3.7%), CSCTC (2.1%), osteoma cutis (1%), sialoliths (0.7%), antroliths (0.5%), myositis ossificans (0.4%), rhinoliths, and CLN (0.2%). Conclusion: There was a high prevalence of soft tissue calcifications in the head and neck region on CBCT images. Tonsilloliths were the most common type of calcification. CBCT imaging may aid the diagnosis and assessment of these calcifications.

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Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluation the treatment success of the short post technique (mushroom restoration) using a composite resin in severely decayed primary anterior teeth after 6, 12, and 18 months after treatment. Methods: Eighteen children aged 3-5 years with severely decayed primary maxillary anterior teeth (60 anterior maxillary primary teeth in total) were included. Patients were treated under general anesthesia (GA). After pulpectomy, a “mushroom shape” was formed in the root canals for the purpose of retention, and the root canals were filled with zinc oxide-eugenol (ZOE), and the teeth were restored with composite resin. The status of treatment was evaluated clinically and radiographically for periapical radiolucency, pathological root resorption, marginal fracture, and loss of restoration for each treated tooth. All findings were recorded. Results: As a result of the evaluation criteria, the success rates at 6, 12 and 18 months were 86%, 80%, and 71%, respectively. None of the teeth showed apical radiolucency or pathological root resorption at the end of the 18^th month period. Conclusion: The short-post (mushroom restorations) technique is a clinically acceptable alternative method for restoration of severely decayed primary teeth. This study supports the feasibility of treatment with this technique for pediatric patients treated under GA.

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Background: Hypodontia and hyperdontia may occur with other dental anomalies such as microdontia, taurodontism, talon cusp, macrodontia and germination. Aims: The aim of this study to evaluate the relationship between hypodontia and hyperdontia with taurodontism, macrodontia and microdontia. Subjects and Methods: In this retrospective study, 2,348 Turkish patients aged 7 to 12 years and treated between 01.01.2017 and 01.01.2018 in Bahcelievler Oral and Dental Health Hospital were evaluated. Data were collected and differences in the distribution of hypodontia and hyperdontia including other dental anomalies were analysed. Results: Of the total sample of 2,348 patients, 1,126 (48%) were girls, 1,222 (52%) were boys. Hypodontia was found in 177 children (93 girls (53%), 84 boys (47%)). The prevalence of hypodontia and hyperdontia were 7.5% and 0.9%. Taurodontism is the most common dental anomalies in hypodontia patients (39%) followed by microdontia (10%). Taurodontism was more prevalent in girls (42%) than in boys (36.5%). Microdontia was found in 10 patients and macrodontia was observed in 9 hypodontia patients. Hyperdontia was found in 21 children [8 girls (38%), 13 boys (62%)]. The most common supernumerary tooth found was mesiodens (85%) and it's more prevalent in boys (67%) than in girls (33%). Taurodontism is the most common dental anomaly (48%) following macrodontia (19%) and were found to be much more prevalent in boys (53%) (23%) than in girls (37.5%) (12.5%). Microdontia was found in only 1 boy (%7.7) in hyperdontia patients. Conclusion: Hypodontia and hyperdontia with taurodontism, microdontia, and macrodontia need much more complex treatment plan. All cases should be evaluated using interdisciplinary approach for appropriate treatment choice. This helps in longterm and effective treatment planning according to a child's individual requirements.

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A complicated case of female genital mutilation (FGM) type 2b done in late-pregnancy is presented and the interplay of Yoruba and Kwale culture, in this case, is discussed. A Yoruba who grew up among Kwales/Urhobos had FGM at 38 weeks and 4 days gestation (to assure vaginal delivery) and presented with vulvar hematoma, septicemia, obstructed labor, and a distressed fetus. 5 days after FGM procedure, she had an emergency cesarean section (EmCS), repair of FGM site and baby was admitted in special care. There was the obvious synergy of the Yoruba culture of FGM in infancy and Kwale/Urhobo culture of FGM in pregnancy. The patient and her fetus/baby almost became mortalities but for prompt intervention. The role of sociocultural factors in the practice of FGM is recommended to be further investigated as FGM even in educated women and at the dangerous stage of term pregnancy is still prevalent.

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Background: Microorganisms in the mouth are protected from negative environmental conditions by forming biofilms; however, the use of anti-plaque agents in children is not preferred due to toxic side effects. Green tea has been reported to have anti-microbial and anti-dental caries properties. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the ability of green tea extract to prevent the formation of biofilm on the teeth of children using space maintainers. Methods: Bacteria were isolated from samples obtained from children aged between 8 and 10 years. The micro-titer plate method and Congo red agar were used to assay biofilm formation. Green tea leaves were obtained from Rize, Turkey. Methanol, hexane and distilled water were used for preparing the extracts. The effects of green tea extract and chlorhexidine on biofilm formation were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Results: Presence of S. mutans 3,3, S. anginosus 2.1.b, S. dysgalactie 6.1.4.1, and E. faecium 10.2. was measured in the biofilm samples. The extracts showed a bacteriostatic effect on the test bacteria, and among the green tea extracts, the methanol extract was found to exhibit the highest efficacy against biofilm formation by S. mutans 3.3. Conclusion: Green tea extract showed good efficacy in controlling bacterial growth, and is recommended as a better-tasting alternative for daily oral hygiene due to a lack of known side effects.

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Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between anxiety level and quality of life in patients with diabetes mellitus and the sociodemographic factors affecting them. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled 150 patients with DM who presented to the endocrinology clinic of Gaziantep University Şahinbey Research and Training Hospital for outpatient treatment between March 2017 and April 2017. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and Eortc-Qlqc30 Quality of Life Scale (EORTC- QLQ-C30) were used to evaluate anxiety levels and quality of life of the patients. Results: The mean score of the patients obtained from BAI was 18 ± 13 and 51.4 ± 26 from EORTC- QLQ-C30. Mean body mass index of patients' was 27.03. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between BAI and EORTC QLQ-C30 (r:−0.359) and sub scales in terms of physical function (r: −0.253), emotional function (r: −0.201), role function (r: −0.308), cognitive function (r: −0.309) (P < 0.05). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between BAI and the symptom subscales of EORTC QLQ-C30 in terms of pain score (r: 0.276), fatigue score (r: 0.305), dyspnea score (r: 0.198), insomnia score (r: 0.247), loss of appetite score (r: 0.216) (P < 0.05). Conclusion: A negative relationship was determined between anxiety levels and quality of life. Age, marital status, number of spouses, co inhabitants at home, educational status, living place were related with both quality of life and anxiety levels of DM patients. Increasing the psychosocial support systems of individuals with DM may reduce their anxiety levels and increase quality of life.

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Background: There is no information about the shear bond strengths (SBS) of zirconia ceramic to primary tooth dentin. Aim: To investigate the effect of different surface treatments and cements on the shear bond strength (SBS) of zirconia ceramic to primary tooth dentin. Materials and Methods: Prepared zirconia bars were distributed into four groups according to surface treatment procedure: control, sandblasting, CoJet and hot etching. The zirconia specimens in each group were further divided into subgroups according to cement (n = 13): self-adhesive resin (Rely-X Unicem), resin-modified glass ionomer (Ketac-Cem Plus), and universal bioactive (BioCem). Zirconia specimens were bonded to the primary tooth dentin surface by cement. SBS was measured, and the data were subjected to two-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests. Results: Statistical differences were observed in the surface treatment procedures for Rely-X Unicem (P < 0.05), but no statistically significant differences were found in the sandblasting, CoJet and hot-etching groups for Ketac-Cem Plus (P > 0.05). For BioCem, the SBS value for the hot etching group was significantly lower than those for the CoJet and sandblasting groups (P < 0.05). The SBS values for the Rely-X Unicem subgroups (sandblasting, CoJet and hot etching) were significantly higher than those for the other cements (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The bond strength of zirconia ceramic to primary tooth dentin is affected by surface treatments and cements.

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Background: The index of cardioelectrophysiological balance (iCEB), measured as QT interval divided by QRS duration, has recently been defined as a new risk marker for arrhythmias. Increased or decreased iCEB is associated with malignant ventricular arrhythmias. Aim: In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between iCEB and stroke severity in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Methods: The study comprised 105 adult patients (males, 58; females, 47; 69 ± 15 years) with acute ischemic stroke. Nine patients were excluded. Patients were divided into two groups based on the calculated National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score (Group 1, NIHSS score <16; Group 2, NIHSS score ≥16). Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data for all patients were collected. Electrocardiography (ECG) was recorded from all patients on admission to the neurology care unit. iCEB (QT/QRS) was calculated from the 12-lead electrocardiogram. Results: There were no significant differences among the demographic parameters of patients. iCEB score was significantly higher in Group 2 patients than Group 1 patients (3.97 ± 0.61 vs 3.43 ± 0.57, P = 0.0024). Conclusion: Our results suggested that iCEB is associated with stroke severity on admission in patients with acute ischemic stroke. It is known that high iCEB is associated with torsade de pointes (TdP), ventricular tachycardia.

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Background: The Global Initiative classification (GOLD) for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which relies on the practical issues of treatment of this complex and heterogeneous disease, may not be reliable in predicting disease severity and prognosis as the term of inflammation is excluded from the definition. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine systemic inflammatory markers in GOLD ABCD groups and to compare these parameters according to clinical and functional features. Methods: The study included 60 COPD patients and 59 healthy subjects. Comparisons were made with the pulmonary function test, transthoracic echocardiography and the six-minute walk test (6MWT). The COPD assessment test (CAT), modified Medical Research Council (mMRC), and index scores of body mass index, airflow obstruction, dyspnea, and exercise capacity (BODE) were recorded. The systemic inflammatory state was assessed using C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and IL-18. Results: The levels of all serum inflammatory markers were higher in the COPD group than in the control group. TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly higher in the symptomatic groups (B and D) than in the less symptomatic groups (A and C) (P < 0.05). Spirometric parameters were more severe in Group D, followed by groups C, B and A, respectively. The 6MWT and the BODE scores were worst in Group D, followed by groups B, C and A. Conclusion: The results suggest that bronchodilator treatment alone might be insufficient in Group B patients, as the systemic inflammatory markers in addition to exercise capacity and mortality predictors were at the worst level in Groups D and B.

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Background: The most widely accepted approach nowadays in nodal staging of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the combined use of 18-Fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) and endobronchial ultrasound-transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). However, this approach may not be sufficient, especially for early stages. Aims: Our aim was to assess whether more satisfactory results can be obtained with standardized uptake value maximum lymph node/standardized uptake value mean mediastinal blood pool (SUVmax LN/SUVmean MBP), SUVmax LN/Primary tumor, or a novel cut-off value to SUVmax in this special group. Subjects and Methods: Patients with diagnosed NSCLC and underwent FDG-PET/CT were reviewed retrospectively. 168 LNs of 52 early stage NSCLC patients were evaluated. The LNs identified in surgery/pathology reports were found in the FDG-PET/CT images. Anatomic and metabolic parameters were measured. Statistical analysis was performed by using of MedCalc Statistical Software. Results: Regardless of LNs size; sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of SUVmax >2.5 were 91.5%, 65.9%, 58.2%, and 95.1%, respectively. Optimum cut-off value of SUVmax was >4.0. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were found as 81.0%, 90.0%, 81.0%, and 90.0% respectively. Optimum cut-off value of SUVmax LN/SUVmean MBP was >1.71. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were found as 94.7%, 80.0%, 71.1%, and 96.7%, respectively. Optimum cut-off value of SUVmax LN/Primary tumor was >0.28. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were found as 81.1%, 85.1%, 72.9% and 90.1%, respectively. Conclusion: SUVmax LN/SUVmean MBP >1.71 has higher PPV than currently used, with similar NPV and sensitivity. This can provide increase in the accuracy of combined approach. In this way, faster nodal staging/treatment decisions, cost savings for healthcare system and time saving of medical professionals can be obtained.

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Aims: We aimed to evaluate the correlation between Alvarado scoring and ultrasonographic findings in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis and its role in reduction of the rate of negative appendectomy. Methods: A total of 2772 patients operated between January 2010 and September 2016 with the presumed diagnosis of acute appendicitis were retrospectively evaluated. Patients with appendicitis detected in histopathologic examination were assessed as Group 1, and those with no appendicitis detected were assessed as Group 2. Results: The rate of negative appendectomy was 5.3%. Alvarado score was ≥7 in 2226 and <7 in 399 patients in Group 1. Alvarado score was ≥7 in 92 and < 7 in 55 patients in Group 2 (P < 0.0001). Among the patients with acute appendicitis identified in histopathologic examination, USG revealed acute appendicitis in 1804 and no acute appendicitis in 422 of the patients with an Alvarado score >7. Among the patients without acute appendicitis in histopathologic examination, USG revealed acute appendicitis in 74 and no acute appendicitis in 18 of the patients with an Alvarado score >7, while acute appendicitis was detected in USG in 29 and was not detected in 26 of the patients with an Alvarado score <7. Conclusion: While possibility of correct diagnosis is high in patients with an Alvarado score ≥7, the diagnosis should not be ruled out in patients with a low Alvarado score. Instead of using alone, the use of Alvarado scoring and ultrasonography together could reduce the rate of negative appendectomy and increase specificity.

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Background: An optimum bonding between the sealer and dentin is important for impermeable root canal filling and many procedures were applied to improve root canal dentin and in turn the bond strength between the sealer and dentine. There is lack of sufficient data on the effect of nonthermal plasma application on the bond strength of sealers to the root canal dentin. Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of NAP on the push-out bond strength (PBS) of a bioceramic and resin-based root canal sealer (RCS) to root canal dentin. Materials and Methods: Forty single-rooted mandibular premolars were decoronated. After preparation and final irrigation, the specimens were divided into four groups (n = 10). Group AH: Root canals were filled with gutta-percha (GP) and AH Plus RCS, Group P-AH: Root canals were filled with GP and AH Plus RCS following the NAP application, Group BC: Root canals were filled with GP and Endosequence BC RCS, and Group P-BC: Root canals were filled with GP and Endosequence BC RCS following the NAP application. Then roots were sectioned horizontally to obtain ~1 mm thick dentin disks. PBS test was performed to the second (coronal) and fourth (middle) slices. Data were analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis and t-test. Results: There was a statistically significant difference among the groups for both coronal and middle regions (P < 0.05). P-BC group showed higher PBS than AH and P-AH groups in the coronal region. P-BC group showed higher PBS than the other groups in the middle region. Conclusions: The use of NAP did not influence the push-out bond strength of AH-Plus sealer to the root canal dentin. The Endosequence-BC sealer showed a better bond strength than the AH-Plus sealer after NAP application.

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Background: This study aimed to identify the unmet sexual health needs of the patients with diabetes seen in a tertiary healthcare facility in Nigeria. Methods: Case-control study design and random sampling method were utilized to recruit type 2 diabetic cases from the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar, Nigeria. Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and International Index for Erectile Function (IIEF) were used to assess sexual function. Result: There were 330 subjects with the mean age of 54.9 years. Among females, the FSFI score was lower among cases compared with controls (18.8 vs. 23.1, P < 0.05). Except for sexual interest, mean scores for all other domains of sexual function were also lower among cases (P < 0.05). Among males, there was no significant difference in overall mean IIEF score comparing cases and controls (40.0 vs. 41.7, P > 0.05). However, mean scores for desire and satisfaction was lower among cases compared with controls (P < 0.05). Older age, unmarried status, presence and duration of hypertension were associated with sexual dysfunction among females. The use of supplements was associated with sexual dysfunction among males (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction is common among diabetics with variation in affected domains in both genders in the study setting. These unmet sexual health needs focus to be addressed.

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Dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs) of the sphenoparietal sinus are extremely rare. In the present report, we describe a 46-year-old male patient who presented with headache, pulsatile tinnitus on the right side, and a single course of focal seizure starting 2 months after a closed head injury causing right temporal and occipital bone fractures. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging which was obtained 11 months after the injury showed white matter necrosis in the right frontal lobe while digital subtraction angiography (DSA) revealed a right-sided DAVF in the region of sphenoparietal sinus. The patient underwent successful intra-arterial Onyx-18 embolization using Scepter C balloon microcatheter. Complete occlusion of the fistula was confirmed by control cerebral DSA at 6-month follow-up. Thus, we conclude that double lumen Scepter C balloon microcatheter is a feasible, safe and effective treatment for intra-arterial Onyx-18 embolization of the DAVFs of the sphenoparietal sinus, particularly in cases with high tortuosity.

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Background: An important component of the first-trimester scan is nuchal translucency thickness at 11 weeks to 13 weeks 6 days of gestation. A nuchal translucency ≥3.3 mm is a significant early pregnancy scan finding associated with Trisomies 13, 18, and 21 and congenital heart diseases. Aims: To determine the prevalence and outcome of increased fetal nuchal translucency among pregnant women. Subjects and Methods: A prospective cohort study at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital Sokoto. This was a prospective study of 265 consecutively recruited women in the first trimester of pregnancy who presented to antenatal clinics over a 20-week period. An NT scan was conducted at 11 weeks to 13 weeks 6 days followed by an anomaly scan at 18–22 weeks. Patients were followed up to delivery and 6-week post-partum. The neonates were examined at delivery and at 6-week postnatal life. Data entry and analysis was done with IBM SPSS version 20. The level of significance was set at less than 0.05. Frequency distribution; student t-test and Chi-squared test. Results: The 95^th percentile NT was 3.3 mm and the prevalence of increased NT above 3.3 mm was 3%. The mean maternal age of the participants was 28.1 ± 5.1 years and the modal parity was Para 0. The most common anomalies associated with increased NT were ventricular septal defect and spina bifida. A congenital anomaly was significantly associated with increased NT (P < 0.001). Conclusions: The prevalence of increased fetal nuchal translucency is relatively high in our environment and is associated with congenital fetal defects. Routine screening with first-trimester ultrasound will help detect congenital anomalies early.

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Objectives: To assess the knowledge and practices of blood pressure measurement (BPM) among final year students, house officers, and resident dental surgeons. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study consisting of a convenience sample of all final year students, house officers, and resident dental surgeons in a dental hospital in South West Nigeria was conducted. All participants were requested to complete a 16-item questionnaire about their knowledge of accurate BPM. After completing the questionnaire, the participants were observed by a single research associate as they measured the blood pressure (BP) of patients using a checklist prepared according to the World Health Organization and the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines for measuring BP. The performance score was based on a 25-element skillset on BP measurement. Data were entered into Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 22. Frequencies and means were generated and independent Student's t-tests and Pearson's Chi-square tests were used to test the association between continuous and categorical variables, respectively at P value < 0.05. Results: In total, 139 questionnaires were returned by 59 final year dental nursing students, 29 final year dental students, 14 house officers, 18 registrars, and 19 senior registrars. Overall, 46.0% of the participants had poor knowledge of accurate BPM. The mean [standard deviation (SD)] BPM knowledge score was 5.8 (2.0), dental nursing students had the least 4.8 (1.5) score, and dental students had the highest 6.9 (2.0) score (P < 0.0001). Overall, the mean (SD) BPM knowledge scores for students and dentists were 5.5 (1.9) and 6.4 (1.9), respectively (P = 0.01). One-hundred and thirty-seven (98.6%) participants performed BPM inaccurately. There was a weak positive non-statistically significant correlation between knowledge and performance scores (r = 0.03; P = 0.75). Conclusions: Overall, 46.0% of participants had poor knowledge of accurate BPM while 98.6% performed BPM inadequately. These findings suggest the need for curriculum review on accurate BPM.

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Aim: To investigate the incidence of bronchiectasis supposed to be made by the external compression of hiatal hernia (HH) to bronchi. Materials and Methods: The thorax computed tomography (CT) scans of patients which were carried out in Duzce University Hospital between February 2014 and August 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. The repeated scans in the same patient were excluded. Results: A total of 4388 patients were included in the study. A total of 98 HH cases were detected of which 58 (59.2%) were female. The mean age was 73.30 ± 9.14 (45–90). The rate of HH according to small, moderate and large size was 45 (45.9%), 9 (9.2%), 44 (44.9%), respectively. The rate of hiatal hernia accompanied by bronchiectasis were similar in both males and females (P = 0.078). The prevalence of bronchiectasis was significantly high in large hernias with 81.4% rate (P = 0.009). Bronchiectasis rate was 12.343 times (OR: 12.343, 95% CI: 1.479–103.027, P = 0.009) higher in the large HH group compared to small and moderate HH groups. Hiatal hernia accompanied by bronchiectasis was 88.1% anatomically near to HH. Conclusions: Thus, hiatal hernia may cause bronchiectasis due to external compression rather than lymphadenopathy or the tumor as an etiology of bronchiectasis and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

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Background: To evaluate the extent of recall of consent information by daycare prostate biopsy patients in our low-literacy setting. And to evaluate the role of a 3rd party check on patient's recall of consent information. Subjects and Methods: As part of our standard of care, a formal informed consent session for day care prostate biopsy takes place 3 days prior to the procedure. For this study, before leaving the outpatient clinic the same day, the patient acknowledged before a third-party that his concerns were or were not satisfactorily addressed. The extent of recall of consent information was assessed on the morning of the procedure using a researcher-administered questionnaire. Consecutive patients participated in this cross-sectional study for day care prostate biopsy at a tertiary hospital in southeast Nigeria from February to November 2015 after obtaining due consent. Results: The recall of the risks associated with the planned procedure was poorer than the recall of the nature of the disease condition or the nature of the planned procedure. However, it was observed that aggregate recall was significantly poorer among patients who negatively attested to a satisfying consent session (OR 0.125; P < 0.0005). Conclusion: The use of a third-party in determining patient satisfaction after a consent session may be a better indicator of patient comprehension and subsequent recall of consent information, especially in low-literacy settings. Using a third-party, in this manner, may assist in checking paternalism inherent in the patient-doctor relationship.

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Aims: This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of transforaminal epidural steroid injection (TFESI) in patients with lumbar radicular pain or radiculopathy caused by different spinal pathologies. Methods: One hundred and seventy seven patients who underwent single transforaminal epidural steroid injection were included in the study group and divided into 3 subgroups (central spinal stenosis + lateral recess stenosis, foraminal stenosis, lumbar disc herniation) according to existing spinal pathology. Patients' visuel analogue scale (VAS) measures and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were recorded and the patients who give favourable response to treatment were called respondents and who were not called as non-respondents. Subgroups were compared statistically at the end of 12 months. Results: Sixty patients (33.9%) were considered as respondents and 117 patients (66.1%) were non-respondents in the entire study group. Patients with foraminal stenosis included the vast majority of the respondents and showed better results of pain relief as opposed to patients of other groups at the end of 12 months (P < 0.001). Conclusion: TFESI was an effective treatment modality for pain relief and functional improvement in patients with foraminal stenosis. However, it could not produce the same results in patients with central spinal stenosis and lumbar disc herniations.

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Background: Although bronchial sleeve resections were performed instead of pneumonectomy in patients with insufficient pulmonary function initially, it is currently available as an alternative to pneumonectomy even in patients with adequate pulmonary reserve. Aims: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the sleeve resections performed for lung cancer in terms of technical, postoperative complication mortality, survival rates and survival factors, complication and to compare them with the literature. Methods: Patients who underwent sleeve lung resection with diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer at our department between January 2012 and December 2017 were included in the study. Patients' data were analyzed according to tumor size, tumor histopathology, hilar/mediastinal lymph nodes invasion status, postoperative complications, operative mortality, resection type, overall survival and diseases-free survival, tumor location, and length of stay in intensive care unit. Results: A total of 71 patients included the study. Right upper sleeve lobectomy was applied to 40 (56.3%) patients and left upper sleeve lobectomy was performed to 19 (26.8%) patients. The most common histopathological diagnosis was squamous cell carcinoma. The mean tumor diameter was 3.39 (SD: 2.25) cm. There was no nodal invasion in 41 (57.7%) patients and N1 nodal positivity was detected in 18 (25.4%) patients and N2 positivity in 12 (16.9%) patients. Median survival time was 43.6 months (35.4-51.8 months), the 3- and 5-year overall survival were 65.7% and 40.6%, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation relationship between nodal invasion and recurrence, but this relation was not found in overall survival. Conclusion: In our study, no significant correlation was found between mediastinal lymph node invasion and overall survival. Supporting this result with multi-centered and prospective studies may encourage surgeons for sleeve resection in indicated patients had lung cancer with nodal invasion.

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Background: HIV-infected children now live longer due to the availability of HIV counseling, testing, and treatment with highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). Efforts to help these children to know about the HIV infection and their status are important steps toward long-term disease management. This study was conducted to determine the factors associated with pediatric HIV disclosure among caregivers of children attending Special Treatment Clinic at Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia. Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among 160 caregivers of children attending the Special Treatment Clinic (STC) at DASH, Lafia, selected by systematic random sampling technique. Interviewer administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data, while bivariate and multivariate analyses were done with the Epi Info version 7. Results: Pediatric HIV disclosure rate in this study was 33.8%. The mean age at pediatric HIV disclosure was 9.85 ± 1.86 years. The independent predictors for pediatric HIV disclosure following logistic regression were child's age, 10–14 years (AOR = 4.46; 95%CI 1.47–13.61), child knowledge of caregivers' HIV status (AOR = 51.18; 95%CI 13.40–195.66), and caregivers' age ≥40 years (AOR = 3.58; 95%CI 1.25–11.74). Conclusions: The pediatric HIV disclosure was low in this study due to the caregivers' and their wards' factors. Health care workers need to intensify health education on the benefit of pediatric HIV disclosure at the STC clinic.

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[FULL TEXT]  [PDF]  [Mobile Full text]  [EPub]  [PubMed]