Forensic dental identification in complicated fractured skull conditions: case report with adapted algorithm for image comparison

ObjectiveTo analyze the perspective of using an adapted algorithm for digital images comparison while providing forensic dental identification in complicated fractured skull conditions by ante-mortem and post-mortem radiographical data sets.Materials and MethodsAnte-mortem orthopantomogram and post-mortem peri-apical X-ray images were converted in *.jpeg format with their further import into GIMP 2.10 software (The GIMP Development Team). Segmentation of OPG-image was provided in topographical projections of jaw segments obtained directly from the victim. Comparison of analyzed image segments was provided manually within GIMP 2.10 software using functions of “Layers” and “Opacity” through the proposed algorithm.ResultsConsidering the fact that 20 positive concordant dental identifiers overall were verified during comparison of AM and PM X-ray datasets, we can conclude that odontological identity was established. All above-mentioned discrepancies could be classified as explainable. Inter-agreement rate between two investigators considering correspondence between AM and PM datasets reached Cohen’s kappa level which is equal to 0,97, while positive 100% agreement was reached considering 21 out of 24 analyzed characteristics.ConclusionAvailable AM and PM radiographical datasets represent a sufficient information for effective forensic dental identification, even if such were obtained by different roentgenological techniques (orthopantomography and periapical radiography). Using of an adapted algorithm for digital images comparison with forensic dental purposes could potentially overcome cognitive bias and observer’s effect, speed up the process of analysis and increase the accuracy and inter-agreement rate while referencing AM and PM datasets.     

Antifibrotic activity of Taraxacum officinale root in carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage in mice

Aim of the study

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) has been traditionally used in the treatment of various liver disorders. The present study was aimed to assess the efficacy of dandelion root water–ethanol extract (DWE) in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced hepatic fibrosis.

Materials and Methods

The mice were treated with CCl₄ dissolved in olive oil (20%, v/v, 2 ml/kg) intraperitoneally (i.p.), twice a week for 4 weeks. DWE was administered i.p. once daily for next 10 days, in doses of 200 and 600 mg/kg of body weight. The degree of hepatic fibrosis was determined by hydroxyproline content and Mallory trichrome staining. Oxidative stress was determined by measuring hepatic superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD) activity. The expression and specific tissue distribution of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and metallothionein (MT) I/II in the liver were determined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Hepatic Cu/Zn SOD activity has been decreased in intoxicated mice and normalized in DWE treated groups. MT I/II immunopositivity was strongly reduced in the CCl₄ group. DWE treatment successfully decreased hepatic fibrinous deposits, restored histological architecture, and modulate the expression of GFAP and α-SMA. Concomitantly, MT I/II expression increased in the DWE treated groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest the therapeutic effect of DWE on CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis by the inactivation of hepatic stellate cells and the enhancement of hepatic regenerative capabilities. The present results provide scientific evidence to substantiate the traditional use of Taraxacum officinale root in hepatic disorders.     

How useful is 3D and 4D ultrasound in perinatal medicine?

AIM: The purpose of this paper is to review and analyze the published literature on the use of three-dimensional (3DUS) and four-dimensional (4DUS) ultrasound in perinatal medicine. METHODS: We systematically searched Medline through PubMED (January 2000-January 2006), including EMBASE/Excerpta Medica database as well as the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The search terms used to identify clinical application of 3DUS and 4DUS studies in perinatal medicine were technical development, special features, and recommendation for fetal imaging, research on 3DUS or 4DUS, and the usage of invasive 3DUS or 4DUS procedures. The reference bibliographies of relevant books were also manually searched for supplementary citations. Inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) studies related to the use of 3DUS or 4DUS in perinatal medicine; (2) full text were available in English; (3) publication format of original scientific articles, case reports, editorials or literature reviews and chapters in the books. RESULTS: Five hundred and seventy-five articles were identified, and among those, 438 were relevant to this review. CONCLUSIONS: 3DUS and 4DUS provided additional information for the diagnosis of facial anomalies, evaluation of neural tube defects, and skeletal malformations. Additional research is needed to determine the clinical utility of 3DUS and 4DUS for the diagnosis of congenital heart disease, central nervous system (CNS) anomalies and detection of fetal neurodevelopmental impairment assessed by abnormal behavior in high-risk fetuses.     

Information systems and the electronic health record in primary health care

The implementation of information systems into primary health care opened the possibilities of providing integrated and co-ordinated health care, improved in quality and focused on the healthcare user. The healthcare system, researchers, physicians, and patients have recognised the benefits offered by informatics, but also raised questions that have yet to be answered.