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Background: Patients with traumatic brain injury present with loss of consciousness and suspected cervical fracture. The aim of this study was to determine the rate of difficult orotracheal intubation in surgical patients undergoing various procedures when manual in-line neck immobilization technique was applied. Methods: This was a randomized prospective study at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. A total of 100 patients were enrolled into the study and were allocated into 2 groups of either Manual In-Line Stabilization (MILS) or Early Morning Sniffing position (EMSP) techniques during intubation. Successful or unsuccessful intubations within 30secs, as well as time to successful intubation were the outcome measures. Results: The mean ± SD intubation time for successful intubation was similar in both groups (MILS=17.9±7.7seconds, EMSP=14.6±6.6 seconds (p=0.359)).There were more failed intubations in the MILS group (27%) and (2%) in the EMSP group (p=0.001). Conclusion: The study showed that patients who had MILS had more failed intubations than those that were intubated with the EMSP technique. With this level of failed intubations there is need for provision of difficult airway laryngoscopic adjuncts for patients with diagnosed cervical fracture and uncleared cervical injury who require orotracheal intubation.

Structural birth defects affect 3-4% of all live births and, depending on the type, tend to manifest in a sex-biased manner. Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are the most common craniofacial structural birth defects and are often divided into cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) and cleft palate only (CP). Previous studies have found sex-specific risks for CL/P, but these risks have yet to be evaluated in CP. CL/P is more common in males and CP is more frequently observed in females, so we hypothesized there would also be sex-specific differences for CP. Using a trio-based cohort, we performed sex-stratified genome-wide association studies (GWAS) based on proband sex followed by a genome-wide gene-by-sex (G × S) interaction testing. There were 13 loci significant for G × S interactions, with the top finding in LTBP1 (RR = 3.37 [2.04-5.56], p = 1.93 × 10 -6 ). LTBP1 plays a role in regulating TGF-β bioavailability, and knockdown in both mice and zebrafish lead to craniofacial anomalies. Further, there is evidence for differential expression of LTBP1 between males and females in both mice and humans. Therefore, we tested the association between the imputed genetically regulated gene expression of genes with significant G × S interactions and the CP phenotype. We found significant association for LTBP1 in cell cultured fibroblasts in female probands (p = 0.0013) but not in males. Taken altogether, we show there are sex-specific risks for CP that are otherwise undetectable in a combined sex cohort, and LTBP1 is a candidate risk gene, particularly in females., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Non-syndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFCs) are common birth defects with a complex etiology. While over 60 common risk loci have been identified, they explain only a small proportion of the heritability for NSOFCs. Rare variants have been implicated in the missing heritability. Thus, our study aimed to identify genes enriched with nonsynonymous rare coding variants associated with NSOFCs. Our sample included 814 non-syndromic cleft lip with or without palate (NSCL/P), 205 non-syndromic cleft palate only (NSCPO), and 2150 unrelated control children from Nigeria, Ghana, and Ethiopia. We conducted a gene-based analysis separately for each phenotype using three rare-variants collapsing models: (1) protein-altering (PA), (2) missense variants only (MO); and (3) loss of function variants only (LOFO). Subsequently, we utilized relevant transcriptomics data to evaluate associated gene expression and examined their mutation constraint using the gnomeAD database. In total, 13 genes showed suggestive associations (p = E-04). Among them, eight genes (ABCB1, ALKBH8, CENPF, CSAD, EXPH5, PDZD8, SLC16A9, and TTC28) were consistently expressed in relevant mouse and human craniofacial tissues during the formation of the face, and three genes (ABCB1, TTC28, and PDZD8) showed statistically significant mutation constraint. These findings underscore the role of rare variants in identifying candidate genes for NSOFCs., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: A fundamental ethical issue in African genomics research is how socio-cultural factors impact perspectives, acceptance, and utility of genomic information, especially in stigmatizing conditions like orofacial clefts (OFCs). Previous research has shown that gatekeepers (e.g., religious, political, family or community leaders) wield considerable influence on the decision-making capabilities of their members, including health issues. Thus, their perspectives can inform the design of engagement strategies and increase exposure to the benefits of genomics testing/research. This is especially important for Africans underrepresented in genomic research. Our study aims to investigate the perspectives of gatekeepers concerning genomic risk information (GRI) in the presence of OFCs in a sub-Saharan African cohort., Methods: Twenty-five focus group discussions (FGDs) consisting of 214 gatekeepers (religious, community, ethnic leaders, and traditional birth attendants) in Lagos, Nigeria, explored the opinions of participants on genomic risk information (GRI), OFC experience, and the possibility of involvement in collaborative decision-making in Lagos, Nigeria. Transcripts generated from audio recordings were coded and analyzed in NVivo using thematic analysis., Results: Three main themes-knowledge, beliefs, and willingness to act-emerged from exploring the perspective of gatekeepers about GRI in this group. We observed mixed opinions regarding the acceptance of GRI. Many participants believed their role is to guide and support members when they receive results; this is based on the level of trust their members have in them. However, participants felt they would need to be trained by medical experts to do this. Also, religious and cultural beliefs were crucial to determining participants' understanding of OFCs and the acceptance and utilization of GRI., Conclusions: Incorporating cultural sensitivity into public engagement could help develop appropriate strategies to manage conflicting ideologies surrounding genomic information in African communities. This will allow for more widespread access to the advances in genomics research in underrepresented populations. We also recommend a synergistic relationship between community health specialists/scientists, and community leaders, including spiritual providers to better understand and utilize GRI., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Introduction: The frequency and implications of secondary findings (SFs) from genomic testing data have been extensively researched. However, little is known about the frequency or reporting of SFs in Africans, who are underrepresented in large-scale population genomic studies. The availability of data from the first whole-genome sequencing for orofacial clefts in an African population motivated this investigation., Methods: In total, 130 case-parent trios were analyzed for SFs within the ACMG SFv.3.0 list genes. Additionally, we filtered for four more genes (HBB, HSD32B, G6PD and ACADM)., Results: We identified 246 unique variants in 55 genes; five variants in four genes were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP). The P/LP variants were seen in 2.3% (9/390) of the subjects, a frequency higher than ~1% reported for diverse ethnicities. On the ACMG list, pathogenic variants were observed in PRKAG (p. Glu183Lys). Variants in the PALB2 (p. Glu159Ter), RYR1 (p. Arg2163Leu) and LDLR (p. Asn564Ser) genes were predicted to be LP., Conclusion: This study provides information on the frequency and pathogenicity of SFs in an African cohort. Early risk detection will help reduce disease burden and contribute to efforts to increase knowledge of the distribution and impact of actionable genomic variants in diverse populations., (© 2023 The Authors. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Cleft palate (CP) is one of the most common craniofacial birth defects; however, there are relatively few established genetic risk factors associated with its occurrence despite high heritability. Historically, CP has been studied as a single phenotype, although it manifests across a spectrum of defects involving the hard and/or soft palate. We performed a genome-wide association study using transmission disequilibrium tests of 435 case-parent trios to evaluate broad risks for any cleft palate (ACP) (n = 435), and subtype-specific risks for any cleft soft palate (CSP), (n = 259) and any cleft hard palate (CHP) (n = 125). We identified a single genome-wide significant locus at 9q33.3 (lead SNP rs7035976, p = 4.24 × 10 -8 ) associated with CHP. One gene at this locus, angiopoietin-like 2 ( ANGPTL2 ), plays a role in osteoblast differentiation. It is expressed both in craniofacial tissue of human embryos and developing mouse palatal shelves. We found 19 additional loci reaching suggestive significance (p < 5 × 10 -6 ), of which only one overlapped between groups (chromosome 17q24.2, ACP and CSP). Odds ratios for the 20 loci were most similar across all 3 groups for SNPs associated with the ACP group, but more distinct when comparing SNPs associated with either subtype. We also found nominal evidence of replication (p < 0.05) for 22 SNPs previously associated with orofacial clefts. Our study to evaluate CP risks in the context of its subtypes and we provide newly reported associations affecting the broad risk for CP as well as evidence of subtype-specific risks., Competing Interests: M.P.E. is a member of the Human Genetics and Genomics Advances Editorial Board., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Background: A research and training program (RTP) was carried out to build the capacity of faculty and improve the culture of research in the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Nigeria., Methods: Realist-guided mixed methods evaluation of the BRAINS project was carried out using secondary data generated during the 5-years (2015 - 2020) of project implementation. Capacity building workshops and mentored research activities targeted at faculty in the CMUL were conducted. Overall, 1,418 participants attended the workshops in batches. Among the participants, forty-five faculty received grants and were mentored by senior professionals (local & international) to conduct research. Data were extracted from all project-related documents including coursework biodata, workshop evaluation forms, quarterly project reports, and end- of-project reports, submitted by the mentees, minutes of meetings, and the proposal submitted for funding. It was in the form of continuous variables and prose (sentences & stories). Quantitative data were analysed with IBM SPSS statistics version 20. Mean knowledge score and mean difference was calculated, paired t-test was carried out using p < 0.05 to determine statistical significance. The prose was thematically analysed to generate themes and narratives. Both were subsequently combined for interpretation and used to refine the initial programme theory into an evidence-informed theory., Results: Twelve courses were deployed, and 1,418 participants (47.8% males and 52.2% females) from medical, nursing, and allied medical departments were trained. Eighty participants were trained in Responsible Conduct of Research and eighty-one on Manuscript Writing over three years. A comparison of the pre/post-test knowledge scores showed a positive mean difference. Thematic analysis of workshop data produced three thematic domains representing effectiveness and gains namely: cognitive, reward, and behavioural. 45 trainees were awarded grants and mentored, and analysis of mentee's data generated 4 themes: Achieving a robust mentoring program; Benefits of the mentoring program; Resilience in research; Improving the mentoring program., Conclusion: By contributing to the body of knowledge available on RTPs, this evaluation identified key components that contributed to the success of the project and developed a model for achieving a robust training and mentoring program which can be replicated in other LMICs., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background and Objectives: One of the major drivers of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic is community transmission. Nigeria, like other countries globally, took to strict preventive public health measures including good respiratory and hand hygiene, physical distancing, and the use of face mask to control the spread of COVID-19 disease. Furthermore, the government of Lagos State in Nigeria made a pronouncement on the universal use of face mask in the community. While the use of face masks has proven to be an effective barrier to the transmission of respiratory diseases, its use in the community is uncommon. This study assessed the willingness and compliance with wearing face masks for the reduction of the community spread of COVID-19 and identified possible barriers to use of mask among residents in Lagos State., Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, that surveyed 552 respondents who were adult residents of Lagos State. Data collection was quantitative, using a pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire, and findings were presented in frequencies and percentages. Pearson's chi-square and logistic regression analyses were used to test the association between variables. The level of significance was set at 5%., Results: A majority (75.7%) of the respondents were willing to wear a face mask in public areas but only 21.9% of the respondents were willing to wear a mask at all times. The most identified barriers to wearing mask were discomfort (72.5%) and inconvenience (77.7%). Two-thirds of the respondents reported they were compliant with always wearing a face mask when leaving home. Only 15.0% of the respondents wore the mask continuously and appropriately, covering the nose and mouth. Having a post-secondary education and being older (40 years and above) were found to be positive predictors of both willingness to wear a mask and compliance with universal mask policy (wearing masks continuously and appropriately)., Conclusion: Our findings suggest that willingness to wear a face mask influences compliance, and that having a post-secondary education and being older (> 40 years) were positive predictors of both willingness to wear a mask and compliance with universal mask policy (wearing it continuously and correctly). The major barriers to wearing masks were discomfort and inconvenience. Effective risk communication strategies to reach diverse groups for better compliance with public health measures are urgently needed even for the future., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: This prospective, comparative study was carried out to evaluate the effect of cleft lip repair on lip-nose morphometric characteristics of subjects with complete unilateral cleft lip/palate at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Borno State, Nigeria., Materials and Methods: The study population consisted of a total of 29 subjects. Lip repair was done using Millard's rotation advancement technique by a single consultant. Standardised photographs were taken; preoperatively and during different postoperative periods; immediately, 1 week, 3, and 6 months. Indirect measurements of eight linear distances were carried out using Rulerswift software application. For all statistical analyses of mean difference, a P-value of less than 0.05 was accepted as being statistically significant., Results: A total of 52% were women, whereas 44% were men. There are considerable disparities between the cleft and non-cleft sides of complete unilateral cleft patients before surgery; statistically significant differences of 1.4 mm, 6.3 mm, and -17.6 mm in vertical lip height, philtral height, and nasal width respectively. Six months after repair, statistically significant differences in lip height between the cleft and the non-cleft side were observed in vertical lip height, nasal width, and philtral height (mean difference of -1.28 ± 0.78, 2.02 ± 2.86, 1.22 ± 1.83 mm; P < 0.001, P = 0.016, P = 0.022, respectively). Horizontal lip height was maintained with no statistically significant difference (mean difference of -0.12 ± 2.19 mm)., Conclusion: Following cleft repair, using Millard's rotation advancement technique, differences in lip-nose morphometric parameters were found to be reduced, however, not always eliminated by treatment., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2023 Journal of the West African College of Surgeons.)

Objectives: Inferior alveolar nerve neurosensory deficit is a worrisome complication of surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars. A novel approach using two-stage partial coronectomy has been proposed as an alternative surgical procedure to reduce this complication. This study compared neurosensory deficits of inferior alveolar nerve following impacted mandibular third molar extraction using one-stage complete extraction with the two-stage partial coronectomy technique., Material and Methods: Subjects with mesioangular or horizontal impacted mandibular third molar with an intimate relationship with inferior dental canal who met the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. Subjects were divided into one-stage and two-stage partial coronectomy techniques. The subjects were evaluated for the presence of inferior alveolar neurosensory deficit, and the relationships of neurosensory nerve deficit with sex, age and type of impaction., Results: Neurosensory deficit was observed in 5 subjects (7.8%), with all cases seen in the one-stage group. This difference was statistically significant ( p  = 0.03). The relationship between the incidence of neurosensory deficit and age, sex, type of impaction, surgical difficulty, operating time and root morphology was not statistically significant ( p  > 0.05)., Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest partial coronectomy compared to one-stage complete extraction reduces the incidence of Inferior alveolar nerve neurosensory deficit., Competing Interests: Conflict of InterestThe authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (© The Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India 2021.)

Background: Several population-based case-control studies have reported concurrent presentation of cancer and congenital malformations. Many associations have been made between oral clefting and cancers, though some of these results are conflicting. Some studies have reported an increased risk of cancer among 1st-degree relatives of cleft cases and vice versa, and also an excess risk of cancers of the breast, lung, and brain among those with oral clefts. This study aimed to determine if the genetic polymorphisms found in some cancers are also associated with orofacial cleft in an African cohort., Methods: The study was a case-control and case-triad study in which cases were 400 individuals clinically diagnosed with non-syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P), while controls were 450 individuals without CL/P. Samples were obtained from three African countries while DNA extraction, PCR, and genotyping were carried out at the University of Iowa, US. Eleven SNPs in genes coding for SWI/SNF subunits and 13 GWAS significant SNPs for cancers associated with orofacial cleft were selected. Case-control analysis, transmission disequilibrium test (TDT), and DFAM to combine the parent-offspring trio data and unrelated case/control data in a single analysis were carried out using PLINK., Results: For the case-control analyses that included all the clefts and for the CLP subtype, none of the SNPs were statistically significant. Statistically increased risk for the following SNPs rs34775372 ( p = 0.02; OR = 1.54, CI:1.07-2.22), rs55658222 ( p = 0.009; OR = 2.64, CI:1.28-5.45) and rs72728755 ( p = 0.02; OR=2.27, CI:1.17-4.45) was observed with the CL only sub-group. None of these were significant after Bonferoni correction. In the TDT analyses, a significantly reduced risk with rs10941679 ( p = 0.003; OR = 0.43, CI:0.24-0.75) was observed and this was significant after Bonferroni correction. The rs10941679 was also significant ( p = 0.003) in the DFAM analyses as well even after Bonferroni correction., Conclusion: The results from this study represent an important starting point for understanding the concurrent presentation of some cancers in orofacial clefts, and cancer risks in cleft patients. The associations observed warrant further investigation in a larger cohort and will set the stage for a more mechanistic approach toward understanding the risk for cancers in families with clefts., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2022 Fashina, Busch, Young, Adamson, Awotoye, Alade, Adeleke, Hassan, Oladayo, Gowans, Eshete, Naicker, Olotu, Adeyemo and Butali.)

The majority (85%) of nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (nsCL/P) cases occur sporadically, suggesting a role for de novo mutations (DNMs) in the etiology of nsCL/P. To identify high impact protein-altering DNMs that contribute to the risk of nsCL/P, we conducted whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analyses in 130 African case-parent trios (affected probands and unaffected parents). We identified 162 high confidence protein-altering DNMs some of which are based on available evidence, contribute to the risk of nsCL/P. These include novel protein-truncating DNMs in the ACTL6A, ARHGAP10, MINK1, TMEM5 and TTN genes; as well as missense variants in ACAN, DHRS3, DLX6, EPHB2, FKBP10, KMT2D, RECQL4, SEMA3C, SEMA4D, SHH, TP63, and TULP4. Many of these protein-altering DNMs were predicted to be pathogenic. Analysis using mouse transcriptomics data showed that some of these genes are expressed during the development of primary and secondary palate. Gene-set enrichment analysis of the protein-altering DNMs identified palatal development and neural crest migration among the few processes that were significantly enriched. These processes are directly involved in the etiopathogenesis of clefting. The analysis of the coding sequence in the WGS data provides more evidence of the opportunity for novel findings in the African genome., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

The use of reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the gold standard laboratory test for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, it has the disadvantage of a long turnaround time and cost. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) formulated a case definition for COVID-19. We sought to determine the utility of a 14-item, point-weighted clinical screening questionnaire adapted from the NCDC case definition in identifying patients more likely to have the disease. This was to aid prompt clinical decision-making., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 113 non-surgical patients presenting to the Accident and Emergency Department (A and E) of Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria. Patients were stratified based on screening scores into low (0-2), moderate (3-5) and high (6) pre-test categories. Patients with low and high scores ≥6 were admitted to the A and E and the COVID-19 holding ward, respectively, while the moderate group had chest computed tomography scans to aid further decision-making, pending the outcome of their RT-PCR results. The validity of the triage score as compared to the RT-PCR test result was calculated and the kappa score of agreement was utilised to evaluate the concordance between two triage scores. The optimum cut-off score was also obtained based on the maximal Younden's index., Results: The frequencies of low, moderate and high pre-test scores were 34 (30%), 43 (38.1%) and 36 (31.9%), respectively. Overall, 38.1% (43/113) were RT-PCR positive. RT-PCR was positive in 26.5% (9/34) with low screening scores, 55.8% (24/43) with moderate scores and 27.8% (10/36) with high scores. The sensitivity and specificity of a high score of 6 were 25% and 92.86%, while the lower score of 3 had sensitivity and specificity of 62.5% and 58.6%, respectively., Conclusion: The screening tool showed a high specificity in its initial design, which suggests that anyone with a low score using this tool has a high probability of testing negative. We recommend a cut-off score of 4 (score A) or 6 (score B) of the current screening tool be used to increase the chances of identifying persons with COVID-19 for RT-PCR testing., Competing Interests: None

Introduction: In vitro studies have shown the efficacy of Ivermectin (IV) to inhibit the SARS-CoV-2 viral replication, but questions remained as to in-vivo applications. We set out to explore the efficacy and safety of Ivermectin in persons infected with COVID19., Methods: We conducted a translational proof of concept randomized, double blind placebo controlled, dose response and parallel group study of IV efficacy in RT-polymerase chain reaction proven COVID 19 positive patients. Sixty-two patients were randomized to three treatment groups. (A) IV 6 mg regime, (B) IV 12 mg regime (given Q84 h for 2 weeks) (C, control) Lopinavir/Ritonavir. All groups plus standard of Care., Results: The Days to COVID negativity (DTN) was significantly and dose dependently reduced by IV (P = 0.0066). The DTN for Control were, = 9.1+/-5.2, for A 6.0 +/- 2.9 and for B 4.6 +/-3.2. Two way repeated measures ANOVA of ranked COVID 19 +/- scores at 0, 84, 168 and252h showed a significant IV treatment effect (P = 0.035) and time effect (P < 0.0001). IV also tended to increase SPO2% compared to controls, P = 0.073, 95% CI-0.39 to 2.59 and increased platelet count compared to C (P = 0.037) 95%CI 5.55-162.55 × 103/ml. The platelet count increase was inversely correlated to DTN (r = -0.52, P = 0.005). No SAE was reported., Conclusions: 12mg IV regime given twice a week may have superior efficacy over 6mg IV given twice a week, and certainly over the non IV arm of the study. IV should be considered for use in clinical management of SARS-COV2, and may find applications in prophylaxis in high risk areas., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Objectives: Despite treatment, the pre-traumatic facial appearance of patients with maxillofacial fractures might not be able to be restored, and this difference can affect the person's quality of life (QoL). This study was designed to evaluate changes in QoL of people with maxillofacial fractures., Materials and Methods: The study population was comprised of participants with maxillofacial fracture and age- and sex-matched healthy controls without history of such fracture. QoL was measured using the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire, which was administered to the patients before treatment (Time 1), at 6 weeks post-treatment (Time 2), and at 12 weeks postoperatively (Time 3). The values were compared with those of healthy controls. The QoL was compared between closed reduction group and open reduction and internal fixation group., Results: The QoL scores of people with maxillofacial fracture before treatment were significantly lower ( P =0.001) than those of healthy controls in all domains of the WHOQOL-BREF. The QoL scores in the psychological and social domains of patients with maxillofacial fracture at Time 3 were still lower than those of healthy controls ( P =0.001)., Conclusion: The QoL of patients with maxillofacial fracture was significantly reduced before treatment in all domains and remained reduced in both psychological and social domains weeks after treatment. Therefore, clinicians must be aware of and manage the residual psychosocial issues that can accompany the post-treatment period of maxillofacial injury.

Background: Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are one of the most common associated anomalies in patients with an orofacial cleft (OFC). However, few studies have shown the association between cleft type and CHDs in our population. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of CHDs in a cohort of OFC patients at a tertiary health facility in Nigeria, as well as assess the risk of CHD by OFC type., Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study design. Patients with an OFC were consecutively enrolled at a single OFC treatment facility. All subjects were assessed by a paediatric cardiologist and had echocardiography done. They were categorised based on the presence of CHDs, as well as the OFC phenotypic type (cleft lip and/or alveolus, cleft lip and palate and cleft palate only). Statistical analysis was done using STATA version 14 (College Station, Texas), and significance was set at P < 0.05., Results: A total of 150 subjects enrolled in the study over a period of 2 years (2018-2020). The median age of subjects was 6 months (interquartile range: 2-24), and 54.7% were female. The prevalence of CHDs in the subjects reviewed was 30.7%. Based on the severity of CHDs, the majority presented with simple defects (95.6%). Overall, the most common presentation was patent foramen ovale (12.7%), followed by septal defects (8.0%). There was no significant association between cleft type and the odds of a CHD., Conclusion: The study reports a relatively high prevalence of CHDs in patients with OFC; however, there was no association between the risk of CHD by cleft type. Although a majority of CHDs may pose a low operative risk, cardiac evaluation is recommended for all cases of OFC to aid the identification of potentially high-risk cases., Competing Interests: None

Background: To curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), several guidelines for dental practice were proposed by dental practice regulating bodies. Assessing the level of compliance to these guidelines by dental personnel will provide an evidence-based report of their adherence to COVID-19 guidance and if improvement on this is required., Aim: To assess the risk of exposure of dental personnel to COVID-19 in the dental facility and their level of compliance with COVID-19 guidance for the dental practice., Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Dental Centre of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, (LUTH) Lagos, Nigeria. Participants were dental personnel (resident doctors/house officers, dental nurses, dental hygienists and dental technologists) at the Dental Centre, LUTH. COVID-19 risk assessment and compliance with COVID-19 dental practice guidance were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire., Results: A total of 131 dental personnel aged 29.4 ± 5.16 years participated in this study. High risk of COVID-19 exposure was noted in trainees in conservative dentistry, paediatric dentistry, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and in dental hygienists. Eight dental personnel (6.1%) reported a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Majority of included specialties reported a low (<50%) to moderate (>50%- <80%) level of compliance with the pre-treatment, during treatment and post-treatment guidance., Conclusion: Although dental personnel at the Dental Centre, LUTH had a high risk of exposure to COVID-19, they showed low-to-moderate compliance with pre-treatment, during treatment and post-treatment guidance which led to a relatively high incidence of COVID-19 transmission in the dental clinic., Competing Interests: None

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a rapidly progressing form of dental infection and a significant public health problem, especially among socially and economically disadvantaged populations. This study aimed to assess the risk factors for ECC among a cohort of Sub-Saharan African children and to determine the role of genetics in the etiology of ECC., Methods: A sample of 691 children (338 with ECC, 353 without ECC, age < 6 years) was recruited from schools in Lagos, Nigeria. Socio-demographic, dental services utilization and infant dietary data were obtained with interviewer-administered questionnaire. Oral examination was conducted using the WHO oral health diagnostic criteria. Saliva samples were collected from the children for genetic analysis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were selected from previous study for genotyping. Genetic association analyses to investigate the role of genetics in the etiology of ECC was done. Bivariate comparisons and Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess associations between ECC and predictor variables, p < 0.05., Results: Of the 338 children with ECC, 64 (18.9%) had Severe-Early Childhood Caries (S-ECC). Children aged 48-59 months comprised the highest proportion of subjects with ECC (165; 48.8%) and S-ECC (24; 37.5%) while female subjects had higher dt (3.13 ± 2.56) and dmft values 3.27 ± 2.64. ECC was significantly more prevalent among children who were breastfed at night ≥ 12 months (OR 3.30; CI 0.39, 4.75), those with no previous dental visit (OR 1.71; CI 0.24, 2.77), those who used sweetened pacifiers (OR 1.85; CI 0.91, 3.79) and those who daily consumed sugar-sweetened drinks/snacks (OR 1.35; CI 0.09, 18.51). A suggestive increased risk for ECC (OR 1.26, p = 0. 0.0397) was observed for the genetic variant rs11239282 on chromosome 10. We also observed a suggestive reduced risk for ECC (OR 0.80, p = 0.03) for the rs131777 on chromosome 22. None of the genetic variants were significant after correction for multiple testing (Bonferroni p value p = 0.004)., Conclusions: Prolonged night-time breastfeeding, poor utilization of dental services and daily consumption of sugar were risk factors for ECC. Larger sample size is needed to confirm the results of the genetic analysis and to conduct genome wide studies in order to discover new risk loci for ECC.

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most prevalent craniofacial birth defects worldwide and create a significant public health burden. The majority of OFCs are non-syndromic and vary in prevalence by ethnicity. Africans have the lowest prevalence of OFCs (~ 1/2,500), Asians have the highest prevalence (~1/500), Europeans and Latin Americans lie somewhere in the middle (~1/800 and 1/900, respectively). Thus, ethnicity appears to be a major determinant of the risk of developing OFC. The Pittsburgh Orofacial Clefts Multiethnic study was designed to explore this ethnic variance, comprising a large number of families and individuals (~12,000 individuals) from multiple populations worldwide: US and Europe, Asians, mixed Native American/Caucasians, and Africans. In this current study, we analyzed 2,915 OFC cases, 6,044 unaffected individuals related to the OFC cases, and 2,685 controls with no personal or family history of OFC. Participants were grouped by their ancestry into African, Asian, European, and Central and South American subsets, and genome-wide association run on the combined sample as well as the four ancestry-based groups. We observed 22 associations to cleft lip with or without cleft palate at 18 distinct loci with p -values < 1e-06, including 10 with genome-wide significance (<5e-08), in the combined sample and within ancestry groups. Three loci - 2p12 (rs62164740, p = 6.27e-07), 10q22.2 (rs150952246, p = 3.14e-07), and 10q24.32 (rs118107597, p = 8.21e-07) are novel. Nine were in or near known OFC loci - PAX7, IRF6, FAM49A, DCAF4L2 , 8q24.21, NTN1, WNT3-WNT9B, TANC2 , and RHPN2 . The majority of the associations were observed only in the combined sample, European, and Central and South American groups. We investigated whether the observed differences in association strength were (a) purely due to sample sizes, (b) due to systematic allele frequency difference at the population level, or (c) due to the fact certain OFC-causing variants confer different amounts of risk depending on ancestral origin, by comparing effect sizes to observed allele frequencies of the effect allele in our ancestry-based groups. While some of the associations differ due to systematic differences in allele frequencies between groups, others show variation in effect size despite similar frequencies across ancestry groups., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Mukhopadhyay, Feingold, Moreno-Uribe, Wehby, Valencia-Ramirez, Muñeton, Padilla, Deleyiannis, Christensen, Poletta, Orioli, Hecht, Buxó, Butali, Adeyemo, Vieira, Shaffer, Murray, Weinberg, Leslie and Marazita.)

Aim: This study sought to evaluate the relationship between height of an individual and the presence of impaction of maxillary and mandibular third molars, and to determine the role of genetics in third molar impaction., Materials and Methods: This was a case-control study, with cases consisted of 200 subjects with third molar impactions; and 200 controls without third molar impactions. Height of subjects was measured, and saliva samples were collected from all the subjects. DNA was extracted from saliva samples. To investigate the role of selected genes in the etiology of third molar impactions, Taqman Genotyping using SNPs identified for jaw growth, height and tooth agenesis was employed. Five candidate genes were investigated using 11 markers (SNPs)., Results: The mean height of cases was significantly lower than that of the control subjects ( p  = 0.04). No difference was found in allele frequency between cases and controls for 10 of the 11 SNPs. However, for rs6504591 the p value was near significance ( p  = 0.07) with odd ratio of 2.131. Subjects with lower third molar impactions were significantly shorter than those who have fully erupted third molars., Conclusions: Subjects with lower third molar impactions were significantly shorter than those who have fully erupted third molars. We observed that individuals with third molar impaction tend to have T allele at the locus, suggesting that the T allele at the locus may increase the risk for having an impacted third molar. The rs6504591 G/T variation on human chromosome 17 (WNT9B gene) appears to increase risk by twofolds for impaction albeit with inability to detect significance due to small sample size., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestAll authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (© The Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons of India 2020.)

Background: The development of the face occurs during the early days of intrauterine life by the formation of facial processes from the first Pharyngeal arch. Derangement in these well-organized fusion events results in Orofacial clefts (OFC). Van der Woude syndrome (VWS) is one of the most common causes of syndromic cleft lip and/or palate accounting for 2% of all cases. Mutations in the IRF6 gene account for 70% of cases with the majority of these mutations located in the DNA-binding (exon 3, 4) or protein-binding domains (exon 7-9). The current study was designed to update the list of IRF6 variants reported for VWS by compiling all the published mutations from 2013 to date as well as including the previously unreported VWS cases from Africa and Puerto Rico., Methods: We used PubMed with the search terms; "Van der Woude syndrome," "Popliteal pterygium syndrome," "IRF6," and "Orofacial cleft" to identify eligible studies. We compiled the CADD score for all the mutations to determine the percentage of deleterious variants., Results: Twenty-one new mutations were identified from nine papers. The majority of these mutations were in exon 4. Mutations in exon 3 and 4 had CADD scores between 20 and 30 and mutations in exon 7-9 had CADD scores between 30 and 40. The presence of higher CADD scores in the protein-binding domain (exon 7-9) further confirms the crucial role played by this domain in the function of IRF6. In the new cases, we identified five IRF6 mutations, three novel missense mutations (p.Phe36Tyr, p.Lys109Thr, and p.Gln438Leu), and two previously reported nonsense mutations (p.Ser424*and p.Arg250*)., Conclusion: Mutations in the protein and DNA-binding domains of IRF6 ranked among the top 0.1% and 1% most deleterious genetic mutations, respectively. Overall, these findings expand the range of VWS mutations and are important for diagnostic and counseling purposes., (© 2020 The Authors. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: Orofacial clefts are one of the most common congenital malformations in the facial region. Older maternal or paternal age presents higher odds of a child with an orofacial cleft. The objective of the study was to assess the association between parental age and risk of orofacial cleft., Materials and Methods: This was a case-control study among 110 parents of children with orofacial cleft (case group) and 110 parents of children without orofacial cleft (control group). Information on maternal age, paternal age, and type of orofacial cleft in the children were obtained. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square analysis, and bivariate logistic regressions to measure the association between parental age and orofacial cleft. The value of P was <0.05, with a 95% confidence interval (CI)., Results: Information on 219 children (109 cases and 110 controls) was analyzed, of which 52% were females. One respondent from the case group withdrew from the study. The odds of a child with orofacial cleft was statistically significantly lower in mothers aged 26-35 years compared to mothers aged 25 years and less (odds ratio [OR]: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.16, 0.79). Similarly, fathers aged above 35 years had statistically significantly lower odds of children with orofacial cleft than those 25 years and less (OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.99)., Discussion: Our findings suggest that mothers aged 26-35 years may have lower odds of giving birth to babies with orofacial clefts, compared to younger mothers. Similarly, fathers aged above 35 years may have lower odds of giving birth to a child with orofacial cleft compared to fathers aged 25 years and less., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2020 Annals of Maxillofacial Surgery.)

Introduction: Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are among the most common craniofacial developmental abnormalities worldwide and a significant cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify patterns of patient presentation, treatment approaches, and changes in our overall cleft care service between 2007 and 2019., Methods and Methodology: A retrospective review of patients managed at a tertiary health facility in Nigeria of all OFC cases operated between 2007 and 2019 was done using the postintervention data retrieved from the Smile Train database. Data of all OFC cases operated within the period were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Descriptive statistics were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20.0., Results: A total number of 740 OFC surgeries were performed in 565 patients, consisting of 269 females (48.2%) and 289 males (51.8%). The majority (63%) of the patients presented before the age of 2 years. Thirty-seven percent presented with cleft lip and alveolus, 27.1% with cleft palate only, and 36.7% with cleft lip, alveolus, and palate. Primary cleft lip repair was the most performed surgery (n = 320, 43.2%), the mean age at repair was 2.1 years. Since 2017, additional services such as speech therapy, mixed dentition orthodontics, and nutritional support were added to services provided to our cleft patients. Fifteen patients have undergone speech assessment and three have completed speech treatment. Eight patients have undergone mixed dentition stage orthodontic treatment., Discussion: Our services have evolved from simply providing surgical care to comprehensive care with a multidisciplinary team approach and provision of a wide range of services including nutritional counseling, pediatric care, orthodontic services, and speech therapy. We believe these will improve the overall well-being of our patients while we continue to improve on services based on clinical research outcomes., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2020 Annals of Maxillofacial Surgery.)

Background: A defining feature of any university is its dedication to scholarly activities, leading to the generation of knowledge and ideas Research productivity is a measure of achievement of a scholar. The number of research publications in peer-reviewed journals is an important criterion for assessing productivity and prestige in the academia., Aims and Objectives: This cross-sectional descriptive study assessed the level of research productivity (RP) among junior faculty at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, and investigated factors affecting their research output prior to the implementation of a 5-year training grant funded by the National Institutes of Health., Methods: Seventy junior faculty members attended a pre-program training, and the self-reported number of peer-reviewed publications (PRPs) was used as an indicator. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing RP among the attendees were assessed and ranked., Results: The majority (42/70, 60%) of the respondents had <10 PRPs. The median (interquartile range) number of PRPs was 7 (3-18). A desire for the development of their personal skills, contribution to society, and personal research interests topped the list of intrinsic factors influencing RP. Work flexibility, research autonomy, and scholarly pursuits were the bottom three. A desire for promotion, respect from peers, and increased social standing were the top three extrinsic factors, while monetary incentives, employment opportunities, and the need to attend conferences were the lowest three. The top barriers to RP were lack of resources and lack of mentoring. Perceived older age, lack of time, and motivation were the lowest three barriers. Older age and professional cadre were associated with increased RP (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Among the participants, research output appears to be motivated primarily by a desire for personal development,promotion, and respect from peers. Lack of access to resources was the main barrier to increased RP. These factors may need to be considered when developing programs designed to promote RP., Competing Interests: None

SPECC1L mutations have been identified in patients with rare atypical orofacial clefts and with syndromic cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P). These mutations cluster in the second coiled-coil and calponin homology domains of SPECC1L and severely affect the ability of SPECC1L to associate with microtubules. We previously showed that gene-trap knockout of Specc1l in mouse results in early embryonic lethality. We now present a truncation mutant mouse allele, Specc1lΔC510, that results in perinatal lethality. Specc1lΔC510/ΔC510 homozygotes showed abnormal palate rugae but did not show cleft palate. However, when crossed with a gene-trap allele, Specc1lcGT/ΔC510 compound heterozygotes showed a palate elevation delay with incompletely penetrant cleft palate. Specc1lcGT/ΔC510 embryos exhibit transient oral epithelial adhesions at E13.5, which may delay shelf elevation. Consistent with oral adhesions, we show periderm layer abnormalities, including ectopic apical expression of adherens junction markers, similar to Irf6 hypomorphic mutants and Arhgap29 heterozygotes. Indeed, SPECC1L expression is drastically reduced in Irf6 mutant palatal shelves. Finally, we wanted to determine if SPECC1L deficiency also contributed to non-syndromic (ns) CL/P. We sequenced 62 Caucasian, 89 Filipino, 90 Ethiopian, 90 Nigerian and 95 Japanese patients with nsCL/P and identified three rare coding variants (p.Ala86Thr, p.Met91Iso and p.Arg546Gln) in six individuals. These variants reside outside of SPECC1L coiled-coil domains and result in milder functional defects than variants associated with syndromic clefting. Together, our data indicate that palate elevation is sensitive to deficiency of SPECC1L dosage and function and that SPECC1L cytoskeletal protein functions downstream of IRF6 in palatogenesis., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

In this study, we investigated the role of the transcription factor Six2 in palate development. Six2 was selected using the SysFACE tool to predict genes from the 2p21 locus, a region associated with clefting in humans by GWAS, that are likely to be involved in palatogenesis. We functionally validated the predicted role of Six2 in palatogenesis by showing that 22% of Six2 null embryos develop cleft palate. Six2 contributes to palatogenesis by promoting mesenchymal cell proliferation and regulating bone formation. The clefting phenotype in Six2 -/- embryos is similar to Pax9 null embryos, so we examined the functional relationship of these two genes. Mechanistically, SIX2 binds to a PAX9 5' upstream regulatory element and activates PAX9 expression. In addition, we identified a human SIX2 coding variant (p.Gly264Glu) in a proband with cleft palate. We show this missense mutation affects the stability of the SIX2 protein and leads to decreased PAX9 expression. The low penetrance of clefting in the Six2 null mouse combined with the mutation in one patient with cleft palate underscores the potential combinatorial interactions of other genes in clefting. Our study demonstrates that Six2 interacts with the developmental gene regulatory network in the developing palate., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors have no conflicts of interest to report., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The etiology of dental anomalies is multifactorial; and genetic and environmental factors that affect the dental lamina have been implicated. We investigated two families of European ancestry in which males were affected by taurodontism, microdontia and dens invaginatus. In both families, males were related to each other via unaffected females. A linkage analysis was conducted in a New Zealand family, followed by exome sequencing and focused analysis of the X-chromosome. In a US family, exome sequencing of the X-chromosome was followed by Sanger sequencing to conduct segregation analyses. We identified two independent missense variants in KIF4A that segregate in affected males and female carriers. The variant in a New Zealand family (p.Asp371His) predicts the substitution of a residue in the motor domain of the protein while the one in a US family (p.Arg771Lys) predicts the substitution of a residue in the domain that interacts with Protein Regulator of Cytokinesis 1 (PRC1). We demonstrated that the gene is expressed in the developing tooth bud during development, and that the p.Arg771Lys variant influences cell migration in an in vitro assay. These data implicate missense variations in KIF4A in a pathogenic mechanism that causes taurodontism, microdontia and dens invaginatus phenotypes., (Copyright © 2019 Gowans, Cameron-Christie, Slayton, Busch, Romero-Bustillos, Eliason, Sweat, Sobreira, Yu, Kantaputra, Wohler, Adeyemo, Lachke, Anand, Campbell, Drummond, Markie, van Vuuren, van Vuuren, Casamassimo, Ettinger, Owais, van Staden, Amendt, Adeyemo, Murray, Robertson and Butali.)

Background: Odontogenic infections is a cause of mortality and morbidity in maxillofacial patients. This is largely due to resistance of organisms to antibiotics prescribed., Objectives: To isolate organisms involved in odontogenic infections and compare the sensitivity of the organisms to Ceftriaxone and Amoxicillin-Clavulanate., Methods: The causative organisms and antibiotic sensitivity were determined by the following steps: Aspiration of pus done with needle, sample of pus or exudate collected using sterile swab if aspiration was unsuccessful and specimen were placed in transport media (thioglycolatebroth) and sent immediately to microbiology laboratory for culture of organisms and antibiotic sensitivity., Results: Out of a total 55 samples taken for bacteriology, 42 (76.4%) yielded positive culture for bacteria. A total number of 21 bacteria species were identified from the positive cultures. Overall, 52% of isolated organisms were sensitive to amoxicillin-clavulanate, 70% were sensitive to Ceftriaxone while 24% were resistant to both antibiotics (Table 3). Ceftriaxone was statistically significantly more potent in inhibiting bacteria growth than amoxicillin-clavulanate (P =0.009). [Table: see text]., (© 2019 Adamson et al.)

Objectives: The outcomes of the treatment of unilateral cleft lip can vary considerably due to variations in repair techniques. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare treatment outcomes of surgical repair of unilateral cleft lip using either the Tennison-Randall or Millard technique based on (qualitative) parent/subject and professional assessments., Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, controlled study conducted at Lagos University Teaching Hospital between January 2013 and July 2014. A total of 56 subjects with unilateral cleft lip presenting for primary surgery who satisfied the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. Subjects were randomly allocated to surgical groups A or B through balloting. Group A underwent cleft repair with the Tennison-Randall technique, while group B underwent cleft repair with the Millard rotation advancement technique. Surgical outcome was assessed using qualitative evaluation by the guardian/subject and independent assessors based on a modified form of the criteria described by Christofides and colleagues., Results: Of the 56 subjects enrolled in this study, 32 were male, with a male to female ratio of 1.3:1. Fifteen of the guardians/subjects in the Tennison-Randall group were most bothered about the lower part of the residual lip scar, while 12 guardians/subjects in the in the Millard group were most bothered about the upper part of the scar. More noses were judged to be flattened in the Millard group than in the Tennison-Randall group. Assessors observed a striking disparity in scar transgression of the philtral ridges between the two groups., Conclusion: Essentially, there were no major difference in the overall results between Millard rotation-advancement and Tennison-Randall repairs. Both Millard and Tennison-Randall's techniques require significant improvements to improve the appearance of the scar on the upper part and lower part of the lip, respectively., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Orofacial clefts are common developmental disorders that pose significant clinical, economical and psychological problems. We conducted genome-wide association analyses for cleft palate only (CPO) and cleft lip with or without palate (CL/P) with ~17 million markers in sub-Saharan Africans. After replication and combined analyses, we identified novel loci for CPO at or near genome-wide significance on chromosomes 2 (near CTNNA2) and 19 (near SULT2A1). In situ hybridization of Sult2a1 in mice showed expression of SULT2A1 in mesenchymal cells in palate, palatal rugae and palatal epithelium in the fused palate. The previously reported 8q24 was the most significant locus for CL/P in our study, and we replicated several previously reported loci including PAX7 and VAX1., (Published by Oxford University Press 2018.)

Aim: The aim of the study is to describe the technique and also the outcome of using buccal fat pad (BFP) as an adjunct flap in cleft palate repair and to report the surgical outcome., Materials and Methods: All the surgical repairs with BFP were done under general anaesthesia. The use of BFP was indicated in patients who needed a secondary palatal cleft repair, those with wide palatal clefts or patients whose primary palatal cleft repair was complicated intraoperatively by inadvertent tearing of the nasal mucosa. The raw wound surfaces were dressed with Vaseline gauze instilled with Framycetin. All subjects 4 years of age and below had oral toileting with warm saline-soaked gauze after each meal. The other patients had oral toileting with warm saline mouth bath in addition to conventional toothbrushing., Results: Eight patients were included in this study with an age range of 1-26 years (mean ± SD = 6.1 ± 8.6 years). Three patients presented with wide palatal clefts, another three presented with dehiscence after a primary repair which necessitated a secondary repair, while the remaining two patients had inadvertent iatrogenic tear of the nasal mucosa during the primary surgical repair. For the latter set of patients, repair was completed by the use of BFP as an adjunct at the same surgery. Post-operative evaluation was satisfactory in all cases, with healing of the flaps and complete epithelialization of the BFP in 1 month. All the patients experienced post-operative cheek swelling, signifying the post-operative oedema due to BFP harvest. However, this was usually resolved within 48 h. Healing was satisfactory with full epithelialization, and no complications were observed., Conclusions: Successful application of BFP as an adjunct flap in palatal cleft closure is demonstrated in these series. It is recommended that cleft surgeons add this technique to their armamentarium in difficult cases, especially in wide palatal cleft repair, secondary palatal cleft repair and in cases of inadvertent tearing of nasal mucosa during primary cleft palate repair., Competing Interests: All the authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and/or national research committee and with the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants included in the study.

Background: Orofacial clefts are the most common malformations of the head and neck region. Genetic and environmental factors have been implicated in the etiology of these traits., Methods: We recently conducted genotyping of individuals from the African population using the multiethnic genotyping array (MEGA) to identify common genetic variation associated with nonsyndromic orofacial clefts. The data cleaning of this dataset allowed for screening of annotated sex versus genetic sex, confirmation of identify by descent and identification of large chromosomal anomalies., Results: We identified the first reported orofacial cleft case associated with paternal uniparental disomy (patUPD) on chromosome 22. We also identified a de novo deletion on chromosome 18. In addition to chromosomal anomalies, we identified cases with molecular karyotypes suggesting Klinefelter syndrome, Turner syndrome and Triple X syndrome., Conclusion: Observations from our study support the need for genetic testing when clinically indicated in order to exclude chromosomal anomalies associated with clefting. The identification of these chromosomal anomalies and sex aneuploidies is important in genetic counseling for families that are at risk. Clinicians should share any identified genetic findings and place them in context for the families during routine clinical visits and evaluations., (© 2018 The Authors. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.)

Objectives: The objective is to know the extent of agreement of clinicians' perception of nasolabial esthetic compared to that of laypeople (parents)., Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study of comparison of clinician's perception of nasolabial esthetics with that of laypeople following surgical repair of UCL. Participants were recruited from the Cleft Clinic of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, and surgical repair of the cleft was performed under general anesthesia. Surgical evaluation was done through direct clinical evaluation using the modified form of the Christofides' criteria by laypeople and professionals., Results: A total of 48 cleft participants were enrolled in the study. The evaluation of the lip by both the laypeople and professionals was similar, and there was no difference (0.588) in their rating. However, there was a significant disagreement ( P = 0.001) between them in the nose assessment., Conclusion: Neither the solitary opinion of the professionals nor that of the laypeople is satisfactory in the evaluation of facial esthetics; both are equally important, especially in the assessment of nasal esthetics. However, opinion of either the laypeople or the professional might be enough in the evaluation of the lip esthetics., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare wound healing complications following the use of either absorbable or non-absorbable sutures for skin closure in cleft lip repair., Materials and Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial conducted at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi Araba, Lagos State, Nigeria. Sixty subjects who required either primary or secondary cleft lip repair and satisfied all the inclusion criteria were recruited and randomized into two groups (Vicryl group or Nylon group). The surgical wounds in all subjects were examined on 3rd, 7th, and 14th postoperative days (POD) for presence or absence of tissue reactivity, wound dehiscence, and local wound infection., Results: Hemorrhage, tissue reactivity, wound dehiscence, and local wound infection were identified as wound healing complications following cleft lip repair. The incidence of postoperative wound healing complications on POD3 was 33.3%. Tissue reactivity was more common throughout the evaluation period with the use of an absorbable (Vicryl) suture compared to a non-absorbable (Nylon) suture, although the difference was statistically significant only on POD7 ( P =0.002). There were no significant differences in the incidences of wound dehiscence and infection between the two groups throughout the observation period., Conclusion: There were no statistically significant differences in the incidences of wound dehiscence and surgical site wound infection following the use of either Vicryl or Nylon for skin closure during cleft lip repair. However, more cases of tissue reactivity were recorded in the Vicryl group than in the Nylon group on POD7. Particular attention must be paid to detect the occurrence of wound healing complications, most especially tissue reactivity, whenever a Vicryl suture is used for skin closure in cleft lip repair., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Objectives: The unilateral cleft lip (UCL) repair technique has evolved extensively over the past century into its modern form and has been identified as an important determinant of treatment outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare treatment outcomes following repair of UCL using either the Tennison-Randall (triangular) technique or the Millard rotation-advancement technique., Materials and Methods: This was a prospective randomized controlled study conducted at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital between January 2013 and July 2014. A total of 48 subjects with UCL presenting for primary surgery and who satisfied the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. The subjects were randomly allocated into two surgical groups through balloting. Group A underwent cleft repair with the Tennison-Randall technique, while group B underwent cleft repair with the Millard rotation-advancement technique. Surgical outcome was assessed quantitatively according to anthropometric measurements, using a method described by Cutting and Dayan (2003)., Results: Our 48 enrolled subjects were evenly divided into the two surgery groups (n=24 for both group A and group B). Twenty-seven subjects were male (56.3%) and 21 were female (43.8%), making a sex ratio of 1.3:1. The Millard group showed a greater increase in postoperative horizontal length and vertical lip height and a greater reduction in nasal width and total nasal width. Meanwhile, the Tennison-Randall group showed better reduction of Cupid's-bow width and better philtral height., Conclusion: We did not find any significant differences in the surgical outcomes from the two techniques. The expertise of the surgeon and individual patient preferences are the main factors to consider when selecting the technique for unilateral cleft repair., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.

Introduction: Surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars is often associated with sequelae such as postoperative pain, facial edema, and limitation in mouth opening ability. These sequelae may result in changes in the patients' lifestyle and quality of life (QoL)., Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of surgical extraction of impacted mandibular third molars on patients' QoL in the immediate postoperative period (7 days)., Materials and Methods: Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Health Research and Ethics committee of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. A total of 124 individuals with impacted mandibular third molars, who satisfied the inclusion criteria and consented to participate in this study, were included. The Oral Health Impact Profile-14 (OHIP-14) QoL questionnaire was used to assess QoL. QoL was assessed preoperatively (baseline) and on postoperative days (PODs) 1, 3, and 7. Maximal interincisal mouth opening, facial width, and pain were also reviewed at all evaluation points. Data analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows (version 16.0, Chicago, IL, USA)., Results: A total of 124 individuals were included in the final analysis. An age range of 18-51 years with a mean (±standard deviation) of 28.5 (7.4) years was observed. A male to female ratio of 1:1.5 was observed. The most frequently encountered type of impaction was the mesioangular impaction 51 (41.1%) and recurrent pericoronitis was the principal reason for extraction 53 (42.7%). The severity of the sequelae (pain, trismus, and facial edema) was maximal on the first POD. Patients' overall QoL deteriorated sharply on the first POD and subsequently improved., Conclusion: Surgical extraction of mandibular third molars is associated with worsening of patients' postoperative QoL in the immediate postoperative period. Prospective patients should be informed about this, and ways of reducing this untoward effect should be explored., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the quality of life (QoL) of parents/caregivers of children with cleft lip and/or palate before and after surgical repair of an orofacial cleft., Materials and Methods: Families of subjects who required either primary or secondary orofacial cleft repair who satisfied the inclusion criteria were recruited. A preoperative and postoperative health-related QoL questionnaire, the 'Impact on Family Scale' (IOFS), was applied in order to detect the subjectively perceived QoL in the affected family before and after surgical intervention. The mean pre- and postoperative total scores were compared using paired t-test. Pre- and postoperative mean scores were also compared across the 5 domains of the IOFS., Results: The proportion of families whose QoL was affected before surgery was 95.7%. The domains with the greatest impact preoperatively were the financial domain and social domains. Families having children with bilateral cleft lip showed QoL effects mostly in the social domain and 'impact on sibling' domain. Postoperatively, the mean total QoL score was significantly lower than the mean preoperative QoL score, indicating significant improvement in QoL ( P <0.001). The mean postoperative QoL score was also significantly lower than the mean preoperative QoL score in all domains. Only 3.2% of the families reported affectation of their QoL after surgery. The domains of mastery (61.3%) with a mean of 7.4±1.8 and finance (45.1%) with a mean score of 7.2±1.6 were those showing the greatest postoperative impact. The proportion of families whose QoL was affected by orofacial cleft was markedly different after treatment (95.7% preoperative and 3.2% postoperative)., Conclusion: Caring for children with orofacial clefts significantly reduces the QoL of parents/caregivers in all domains. However, surgical intervention significantly improves the QoL of the parents/caregivers of these children., Competing Interests: Conflict of Interest: No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.