Histological observations on the anterior olfactory nucleus in human

Aim: Localization of isolated clusters of anterior olfactory nucleus (AON) in a human olfactory bulb and tract. Materials and methods: This investigation was done on human olfactory bulbs and their tracts, collected from the freshly donated cadavers, before embalming, in the Department of Anatomy, IPGMER, Kolkata. H&E stained histological slides were prepared along the whole length of specimens and examined under a Leica DM 2000 microscope and with a Leica Quin image analyzer. Results: The anterior olfactory nucleus was detected in the form of a major cluster and in two smaller clusters of neurons. The major cluster was located at the caudal pole of the bulb and was composed of medium-sized triangular cells which had an average diameter of 13.92 ± 3.43 μm. Out of the two minor clusters, one was detected at the beginning and another at the middle of the olfactory tract. Here neurons were little larger in size and their diameter ranged approximately 15–17 μm. Olfactory striae also accommodated some neurons in a scattered manner. Conclusion: This observation will be helpful in exploration of the complex role of AON in the organization and function of the olfactory system and its clinical significance in human.     

Immunohistochemical validation of INI1/SMARCB1 in a spectrum of musculoskeletal tumors: An experience at a Tertiary Cancer Referral Centre

The purpose of this study was to evaluate and validate immunohistochemical (IHC) expression of INI1/SMARCB1 in various musculoskeletal tumors in the light of the established literature.     

Developing a behavioral model for mobile phone-based diabetes interventions

Objectives

Behavioral models for mobile phone-based diabetes interventions are lacking. This study explores the potential mechanisms by which a text message-based diabetes program affected self-management among African-Americans.

Methods

We conducted in-depth, individual interviews among 18 African-American patients with type 2 diabetes who completed a 4-week text message-based diabetes program. Each interview was audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and imported into Atlas.ti software. Coding was done iteratively. Emergent themes were mapped onto existing behavioral constructs and then used to develop a novel behavioral model for mobile phone-based diabetes self-management programs.

Results

The effects of the text message-based program went beyond automated reminders. The constant, daily communications reduced denial of diabetes and reinforced the importance of self-management (Rosenstock Health Belief Model). Responding positively to questions about self-management increased mastery experience (Bandura Self-Efficacy). Most surprisingly, participants perceived the automated program as a “friend” and “support group” that monitored and supported their self-management behaviors (Barrera Social Support).

Conclusions

A mobile phone-based diabetes program affected self-management through multiple behavioral constructs including health beliefs, self-efficacy, and social support.

Practice implications

Disease management programs that utilize mobile technologies should be designed to leverage existing models of behavior change and can address barriers to self-management associated with health disparities.     

Association between posterior crossbite and/or deep bite and temporomandibular disorders among Palestinian adolescents: A sex comparison

ABSTRACT

Objective: To assess the prevalence of temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) and posterior crossbite and/or deep bite and any possible association between them.

Methods: One thousand-nineteen adolescents responded to a questionnaire regarding oral habits and TMD symptoms. Afterwards, they were diagnosed according to the Axis I of the DC/TMD and underwent a dental examination. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

Results: A significant association was found between posterior crossbite and some TMD diagnosis, but no association was found between deep bite and TMD, nor between occlusal diagnosis and bruxism. TMDs were more prevalent in girls. There was a significant sex difference (more among females) in the prevalence of painful TMDs.

Conclusion: Posterior crossbite in the adolescent population analyzed may be related to TMDs, in contrary to deep-bite. The presence of posterior crossbite may have different impact on TMD findings between the sexes.