bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multicenter study of artificial intelligence-aided software for detecting visible clinically significant prostate cancer on mpMRI
Authors: Sun Zhaonan , Wang Kexin , Kong Zixuan , Xing Zhangli , Chen Yuntian , Luo Ning , Yu Yang , Song Bin , Wu Pengsheng , Wang Xiangpeng , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Xiaoying
Published: April 2023

Background

AI-based software may improve the performance of radiologists when detecting clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). This study aims to compare the performance of radiologists in detecting MRI-visible csPCa on MRI with and without AI-based software.

Materials and methods

In total, 480 multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) images were retrospectively collected from eleven different MR devices, with 349 csPCa lesions in 180 (37.5%) cases. The csPCa areas were annotated based on pathology. Sixteen radiologists from four hospitals participated in reading. Each radiologist was randomly assigned to 30 cases and diagnosed twice. Half cases were interpreted without AI, and the other half were interpreted with AI. After four weeks, the cases were read again in switched mode. The mean diagnostic performance was compared using sensitivity and specificity on lesion level and patient level. The median reading time and diagnostic confidence were assessed.

Results

On lesion level, AI-aided improved the sensitivity from 40.1% to 59.0% (18.9% increased; 95% confidence interval (CI) [11.5, 26.1]; p < .001). On patient level, AI-aided improved the specificity from 57.7 to 71.7% (14.0% increase, 95% CI [6.4, 21.4]; p < .001) while preserving the sensitivity (88.3% vs. 93.9%, p = 0.06). AI-aided reduced the median reading time of one case by 56.3% from 423 to 185 s (238-s decrease, 95% CI [219, 260]; p < .001), and the median diagnostic confidence score was increased by 10.3% from 3.9 to 4.3 (0.4-score increase, 95% CI [0.3, 0.5]; p < .001).

Conclusions

AI software improves the performance of radiologists by reducing false positive detection of prostate cancer patients and also improving reading times and diagnostic confidence.

Clinical relevance statement

This study involves the process of data collection, randomization and crossover reading procedure.

Graphical Abstract
Meningitis caused by Chromobacterium haemolyticum suspected to be derived from a canal in Japan: a case report
Authors: Iwamoto Kumi , Yamamoto Masaki , Yamamoto Atsushi , Sai Toshi , Mukai Toshiko , Miura Noriko , Kozono Haruhisa , Onishi Shigeki , Ohno Seiko , Iwamoto Nobuki , Matsumura Yasufumi , Nagao Miki , Urata Yoji
Published: April 2023

Background

The genus Chromobacterium, of which 12 species have been recognized, comprises bacteria that reside in tropical and subtropical environments. Of these species, Chromobacterium violaceum and Chromobacterium haemolyticum are known to cause infections in humans. There have been few reports of infections caused by Chromobacterium haemolyticum.

Case presentation

Chromobacterium haemolyticum was detected in spinal fluid and blood samples isolated from a 73-year-old Japanese male patient who fell into a canal in Kyoto City, Japan and developed bacteremia and meningitis. Although meropenem and vancomycin were administered, this patient died 9 days after admission. Although the infection was misidentified as being caused by Chromobacterium violaceum by conventional identification methods, average nucleotide identity analysis revealed that the causative pathogen was Chromobacterium haemolyticum. The same bacteria were also detected in the canal in which the accident occurred. Phylogenetic analysis of the strain isolated from the patient and the strain isolated from the canal suggested that the two strains were very closely related.

Conclusions

Chromobacterium haemolyticum can be misidentified as Chromobacterium violaceum by conventional identification methods and tends to be more resistant to β-lactams than Chromobacterium violaceum. Pigment production and β-hemolysis on blood sheep agar can provide clues for the early identification of Chromobacterium haemolyticum.
Optimization strategies of mesenchymal stem cell-based therapy for acute kidney injury
Authors: Fu Zhangning , Zhang Yifan , Geng Xiaodong , Chi Kun , Liu Chao , Song Chengcheng , Cai Guangyan , Chen Xiangmei , Hong Quan
Published: April 2023

Considering the high prevalence and the lack of targeted pharmacological management of acute kidney injury (AKI), the search for new therapeutic approaches for it is in urgent demand. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been increasingly recognized as a promising candidate for the treatment of AKI. However, clinical translation of MSCs-based therapies is hindered due to the poor retention and survival rates as well as the impaired paracrine ability of MSCs post-delivery. To address these issues, a series of strategies including local administration, three-dimensional culture, and preconditioning have been applied. Owing to the emergence and development of these novel biotechnologies, the effectiveness of MSCs in experimental AKI models is greatly improved. Here, we summarize the different approaches suggested to optimize the efficacy of MSCs therapy, aiming at promoting the therapeutic effects of MSCs on AKI patients.
Preliminary feasibility of integrating tobacco treatment into SUD peer recovery coaching: a mixed-methods study of peer recovery coaches
Authors: Streck Joanna M. , Regan Susan , Werner Michael , Glynn Alexia , Villanti Andrea C. , Park Elyse R. , Wakeman Sarah E. , Evins A. Eden , Rigotti Nancy A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Individuals with substance use disorder (SUD) have high prevalence of cigarette smoking and difficulty quitting. Peer recovery coaches (PRCs; individuals with lived SUD experience) facilitate SUD behavior change in recoverees but it is unknown if/how they address tobacco treatment in SUD recovery coaching. We assessed PRC’s tobacco-related practices and attitudes about tobacco treatment in SUD recovery.

Methods

The Tobacco use In Peer-recovery Study (TIPS) was a cross-sectional mixed-methods pilot survey (January–March 2022) of the 26 PRCs employed by a Massachusetts-based healthcare system’s 12 SUD treatment clinics/programs. PRCs completed a quantitative survey (n = 23/26; 88%) and a telephone-based qualitative interview (n = 20/26; 77%).

Results

One-third of PRCs reported current smoking, 50% reported former smoking, and 18% never smoked. Among PRCs, 61% reported accompanying recoverees outdoors to smoke, 26% smoked with recoverees, 17% had provided cigarettes to recoverees, 32% used smoking to help build peer-relationships, and 74% rated smoking as socially acceptable in SUD treatment. PRCs reported regularly talking to recoverees about tobacco treatment (65%), believed they should have a role in helping recoverees quit smoking (52%), and were interested in tobacco treatment training (65%). A majority of both nonsmoking and current smoking PRCs (73% vs. 57%) regularly talked to recoverees about quitting smoking.

Conclusion

PRCs’ attitudes about integrating tobacco treatment into SUD recovery coaching were generally positive and PRCs reported they could have a role in helping recoverees with tobacco treatment. Barriers to integrating tobacco treatment into SUD recovery include use of cigarettes as a peer-recovery tool and high prevalence and social acceptability of smoking in SUD recovery.
A qualitative study on the perception of infection prevention and control measures among healthcare workers without patient contact during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic
Authors: Ehrenzeller Selina , Kuehl Richard , Durovic Ana , Martinez Aurélien Emmanuel , Battegay Manuel , von Rotz Matthias , Fringer André , Tschudin-Sutter Sarah
Published: April 2023

We conducted a qualitative interview-based study to examine the perception of infection prevention and control (IPC) measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) without patient contact in a tertiary academic care center. We compared these findings to those derived from interviews of HCWs with patient contact from the same institution using the same study design. The following main four themes were identified: (1) As for HCWs with patient contact, transparent communication strongly contributes to employees’ sense of security. (2) Information on personal protective equipment (PPE) usage needs to be stratified according to different educational backgrounds and professions. (3) Consistency of IPC measures was positively perceived yet a desire for constant reminders to counteract the fatigue effect played a more significant role for HCWs without patient contact. (4) As compared to HCWs with patient contact, HCWs without patient contact preferred uniform digital training resources rather than more face-to-face training. This study shows that the needs of HCWs with and without patient contact differ and need to be considered in pandemic management.
Variation of the Hydraulic Conductivity and the Mechanical Characteristics of Plastic Concrete with Time
Authors: Basha Ali , Mansour Walid
Published: April 2023

Sand-bentonite-cement are commonly used as cut-off walls to isolate polluted soils or in ground improvement technologies and as retaining structures as secant pile wall. In this research, a laboratory program consisted from 105 sample were prepared and tested between different tests, such as hydraulic conductivity, porosity, and compressive strength to monitor the mechanical behavior of sand-bentonite-cement at different ages. Based on the experimental relationships between hydraulic conductivity coefficient and samples age; there were reduction due to added bentonite to mixture reach about 35.0% at 7 days. Moreover, the average reduction in the compressive strength of plastic concrete samples with bentonite was lower by average range about 51.0% than the compressive strength of plastic concrete samples without bentonite at 7 days. In this study, proposed formulas were derived to estimate the splitting tensile strength based on the compressive strength and the hydraulic conductivity in terms of the bentonite/cement ratio and testing age. The predicted values showed well agreement with the experimental records for samples of sand-bentonite-cement mixtures where the standard deviation and coefficient of variation were 0.02, and 0.94%, respectively.
Songbirds initiate migratory flights synchronously relative to civil dusk
Authors: Cooper Nathan W. , Dossman Bryant C. , Berrigan Lucas E. , Brown J. Morgan , Brunner Alicia R. , Chmura Helen E. , Cormier Dominic A. , Bégin-Marchand Camille , Rodewald Amanda D. , Taylor Philip D. , Tonra Christopher M. , Tremblay Junior A. , Marra Peter P.
Published: April 2023

Background

Each spring and fall billions of songbirds depart on nocturnal migrations across the globe. Theory suggests that songbirds should depart on migration shortly after sunset to maximize their potential for nightly flight duration or to time departure with the emergence of celestial cues needed for orientation and navigation. Although captive studies have found that songbirds depart during a narrow window of time after sunset, observational studies have found that wild birds depart later and more asynchronously relative to sunset than predicted.

Methods

We used coded radio tags and automated radio-telemetry to estimate the time that nearly 400 individuals from nine songbird species departed their breeding or wintering grounds across North America. We also assessed whether each species was most likely beginning long-distance migratory flights at departure or instead first making non-migratory regional flights. We then explored variation in nocturnal departure time by post-departure movement type, species, age, sex, and season.

Results

We found that 90% of individuals from species that were likely initiating long-distance migratory flights departed within 69 min of civil dusk, regardless of species, season, age, or sex. By contrast, species that likely first made non-migratory regional movements away from the migratory destination departed later and more asynchronously throughout the night. Regardless of post-departure movement type, 98% of individuals departed after civil dusk but otherwise showed no preference in relation to twilight phase.

Conclusions

Although the presence of celestial orientation cues at civil dusk may set a starting point for departure each night, the fact that species likely beginning long-distance migration departed earlier and more synchronously relative to civil dusk than those first making non-migratory regional movements is consistent with the hypothesis that departing promptly after civil dusk functions to maximize the potential for nightly flight duration and distance. By studying the onset of migration, our study provides baseline information about departure decisions that may enhance our understanding of departure timing throughout migration.
Quantification of the effect of gas–water–equilibria on carbonate precipitation
Authors: Zacherl Lilly , Baumann Thomas
Published: April 2023

The expanding geothermal energy sector still faces performance issues due to scalings in pipes and surface level installations, which require elevated operation pressure levels and costly maintenance. For facilities in the North Alpine Foreland Basin, the precipitation of $${\hbox {CaCO}}_{3}$$

CaCO
3

is the main problem which is a consequence of the disruption of the lime-carbonic acid equilibrium during production. The formation of gas bubbles plays a key role in the scaling process. This work presents experiments in a bubble column to quantify the effects of gas stripping on carbonate precipitation and an extension of PhreeqC to include kinetic exchange between a gas phase and water for the simulation of the experimental results. With the same hybrid model not only precipitation of $${\hbox {CaCO}}_{3}$$

CaCO
3

but also the dissolution of scalings by the injection of $${\hbox {CO}}_{2}$$

CO
2

could be quantified. The bubble column was filled with tap water and brine. By varying the ionic strength of the solution, a wider range of geothermal waters was covered. Air and $${\hbox {CO}}_{2}$$

CO
2

were introduced at the bottom. The precipitates built on the column wall were analyzed with Raman spectroscopy: injecting air into tap water at low ionic strength led to the formation of aragonite with 59.8% of the precipitates remaining at the column wall and the rest as particles in dispersion. At moderate ionic strength the dominant polymorph was calcite and 81.5% of the crystals were attached to the wall. At high ionic strength precipitation was inhibited. The presence of crystallization nuclei reduced the time for precipitation, but not the amount of scalings formed. Injecting $${\hbox {CO}}_{2}$$

CO
2

into the solution completely removed the scalings from the column wall. The model and its experimental backup lay the foundation for a process-based prediction of the scales (not only) in geothermal systems.
Applications of remote epitaxy and van der Waals epitaxy
Authors: Roh Ilpyo , Goh Seok Hyeon , Meng Yuan , Kim Justin S. , Han Sangmoon , Xu Zhihao , Lee Han Eol , Kim Yeongin , Bae Sang-Hoon
Published: April 2023

Epitaxy technology produces high-quality material building blocks that underpin various fields of applications. However, fundamental limitations exist for conventional epitaxy, such as the lattice matching constraints that have greatly narrowed down the choices of available epitaxial material combinations. Recent emerging epitaxy techniques such as remote and van der Waals epitaxy have shown exciting perspectives to overcome these limitations and provide freestanding nanomembranes for massive novel applications. Here, we review the mechanism and fundamentals for van der Waals and remote epitaxy to produce freestanding nanomembranes. Key benefits that are exclusive to these two growth strategies are comprehensively summarized. A number of original applications have also been discussed, highlighting the advantages of these freestanding films-based designs. Finally, we discuss the current limitations with possible solutions and potential future directions towards nanomembranes-based advanced heterogeneous integration.

Graphical Abstract
A technical note on autologous iliac crest bone grafting for restoration of the distal tibial articular surface
Authors: Hasan Bahaa Zakarya , Mesregah Mohamed Kamal
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This technical note describes a reconstructive technique of the distal tibial articular surface using autologous iliac crest bone graft.

Methods

Following curettage and high‐speed burring of giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB) of the distal tibial articular surface, the resulting cavity was filled, and the articular surface was reconstructed using autologous tricortical iliac crest bone graft. The graft was fixed to the tibia with a plate.

Results

The smooth congruent articulating surface of the distal tibia was restored. Full ankle range of motion was achieved. No recurrence was detected in the follow‐up imaging.

Conclusions

The currently reported technique using autologous tricortical iliac crest bone graft is a viable option for reconstructing the articular surface of the distal tibia.
Current advances for omics-guided process optimization of microbial manufacturing
Authors: Wan Shengtong , Liu Xin , Sun Wentao , Lv Bo , Li Chun
Published: April 2023

Currently, microbial manufacturing is widely used in various fields, such as food, medicine and energy, for its advantages of greenness and sustainable development. Process optimization is the committed step enabling the commercialization of microbial manufacturing products. However, the present optimization processes mainly rely on experience or trial-and-error method ignoring the intrinsic connection between cellular physiological requirement and production performance, so in many cases the productivity of microbial manufacturing could not been fully exploited at economically feasible cost. Recently, the rapid development of omics technologies facilitates the comprehensive analysis of microbial metabolism and fermentation performance from multi-levels of molecules, cells and microenvironment. The use of omics technologies makes the process optimization more explicit, boosting microbial manufacturing performance and bringing significant economic benefits and social value. In this paper, the traditional and omics technologies-guided process optimization of microbial manufacturing are systematically reviewed, and the future trend of process optimization is prospected.
Drug interactions between ALK inhibitors and warfarin with concurrent use of bucolome: a case report
Authors: Kato Takashi , Kunimoto Yusuke , Kitagawa Manabu , Asai Yuichiro , Kimyo Tomoko , Nakata Hiromasa , Takahashi Mamoru , Chiba Hirofumi , Takahashi Hiroki , Miyamoto Atsushi , Fukudo Masahide
Published: April 2023

Background

Alectinib, crizotinib, and ceritinib, are anaplastic lymphoma kinase-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (ALK-TKIs) that exhibit high protein binding, and their metabolism is associated with the cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoenzymes 2C9 or 3A4. The plasma protein binding rate of warfarin, which is used to prevent and treat venous thromboembolism, is also high. Warfarin is a racemate of S-warfarin and R-warfarin, which are metabolized by CYP2C9 and CYP3A4, respectively. Reports on the drug interactions between each of the above-mentioned ALK-TKIs and warfarin with concurrent use of bucolome are currently lacking.

Case presentation.

We report a case of a patient receiving warfarin and bucolome, whose international normalized ratio (INR) increased after sequential treatment with alectinib, crizotinib, and ceritinib. The patient was a 61-year-old man with a history of aortic valve regurgitation, who was receiving warfarin treatment following aortic valve replacement. Bucolome, which can enhance the effect of warfarin, was also used simultaneously. The patient was diagnosed with primary lung adenocarcinoma, and ALK rearrangement was detected during second-line chemotherapy. After progression of the disease with chemotherapy, sequential treatment with alectinib, crizotinib, and ceritinib was initiated. Pretreatment INR values were in the therapeutic range (target INR of 2–3) but increased to supratherapeutic levels each time after initiation of alectinib, crizotinib, or ceritinib treatment. Adjustment of warfarin dose or discontinuation of bucolome were necessary to maintain the therapeutic INR range. There were no serious bleeding events or substantial changes in dietary intake.

Displacement of plasma protein binding or competitive inhibition of metabolism by alectinib, crizotinib, and ceritinib could increase the plasma concentration of the unbound form of warfarin, resulting in high INR values. In addition, alectinib, crizotinib, and ceritinib might cause displacement of bucolome from plasma proteins, followed by displacement of warfarin or inhibition of warfarin metabolism caused by the unbound form of bucolome.

Conclusions

Close monitoring of INR and adjustment of warfarin dosage are needed during treatment with alectinib, crizotinib, or ceritinib in patients who receive warfarin with concurrent use of bucolome.
Historical perspective and recent progress in cardiac ion channelopathies research and clinical practice in Hong Kong
Authors: Leung Keith Sai Kit , Huang Helen , Chung Cheuk To , Radford Danny , Lakhani Ishan , Li Christien Ka Hou , Li Tommy Wai Kei , Ranjithkumar Simon , Rajan Rajesh , Roever Leonardo , Garcia-Zamora Sebastian , Bazoukis George , Liu Tong
Published: April 2023

Cardiac ion channelopathies encompass a set of inherited or acquired conditions that are due to dysfunction in ion channels or their associated proteins, typically in the presence of structurally normal hearts. They are associated with the development of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. The aim of this review is to provide a historical perspective and recent advances in the research of the cardiac ion channelopathies, Brugada syndrome, long QT syndrome and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, in Hong Kong, China. In particular, recent works on the development of novel predictive models incorporating machine learning techniques to improve risk stratification are outlined. The availability of linked records of affected patients with good longitudinal data in the public sector, together with multidisciplinary collaborations, implies that ion channelopathy research efforts have advanced significantly.
COVID-19 HEART unveiling as atrial fibrillation: pathophysiology, management and future directions for research
Authors: Kanuri Sri Harsha , Jayesh Sirrkay Prapthi , Ulucay Ayse Sena
Published: April 2023

Background

COVID-19 infections are known to cause numerous systemic complications including cardiovascular disorders. In this regard, clinicians recently noticed that patients recovering from COVID-19 infections presented with diverse set of cardiovascular disorders in addition to those admitted to ICU (intensive care unit). COVID-19 heart has multifaceted presentation ranging from dysrhythmias, myocarditis, stroke, coronary artery disease, thromboembolism to heart failure. Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia among COVID-19 patients. In the background section, we briefly discussed epidemiology and spectrum of cardiac arrhythmias in COVID-19 patients.

Main body

In this state-of-the-art review we present here, we present the information regarding COVID-19-induced A-fib in sections, namely mechanism of action, clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, its occurrence significantly increases the mortality and morbidity with a potential risk of complications such as cardiac arrest and sudden death. We included separate sections on complications including thromboembolism and ventricular arrhythmias. Since its mechanism is currently a gray area, we included a separate section on basic science research studies that are warranted in the future to comprehend its underlying pathogenic mechanisms.

Conclusions

Taken together, this review builds upon the current literature of COVID-19-induced A-fib, including pathophysiology, clinical presentation, treatment and complications. Furthermore, it provides recommendations for future research moving forward that can open avenues for developing novel remedies that can prevent as well as hasten clinical recovery of atrial fibrillation in COVID-19 patients.
Effectiveness of PRISM III score in predicting the severity of illness and mortality of children admitted to pediatric intensive care unit: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Anjali M. M. , Unnikrishnan Deepa T.
Published: April 2023

Background

The facilities for intensive care are improving day by day in all departments including pediatrics, and prognostication has always been the duty of a physician. Scoring systems are useful to objectively measure the severity and predict the prognosis of sick children. This study was done to assess the severity of illness and mortality risk using the PRISM score in children aged 1 month–18 years, admitted into the pediatric intensive care unit in a tertiary-level hospital. Ninety children of age group 1 month–18 years admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit, satisfying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were selected after obtaining consent from the parents. A careful history, physical examination, systemic examination, and relevant blood investigations were performed and documented based on the Pediatric Risk Mortality score (PRISM). The relationship between the total prism score obtained and the outcome in terms of mortality, and severity based on the need for either ventilator support or inotrope support or ICU stay of more than 5 days, was studied using appropriate statistical tools.

Results

The male to female ratio was 53.3% and 46.7%, with a mortality of 10% and severity of 24%. The average value of the PRISM score was 12 to predict mortality, with 100% sensitivity and 91% specificity. PRISM score of 7 had 100% sensitivity and 95% specificity in predicting severe illness. There was a significant association between a low Glasgow coma scale, pupillary reaction, low systolic blood pressure, acidosis, high blood glucose level, and high serum creatinine with the severity of illness.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that Pediatric Risk Mortality score III (PRISM III) acts as an excellent discriminative tool for predicting both mortality and severity of illness of children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit. The area under the ROC curves was 99% for both. As the PRISM score increases, both mortality risk increases and the risk of severity of illness also increases.
Preoperative Risk Stratification in Esophageal Cancer Surgery: Comparing Risk Models with the Clinical Judgment of the Surgeon
Authors: Hagens Eliza R. C. , Cui Nanke , van Dieren Susan , Eshuis Wietse J. , Laméris Wytze , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , Gisbertz Suzanne S.
Published: April 2023

Background

Numerous prediction models estimating the risk of complications after esophagectomy exist but are rarely used in practice. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical judgment of surgeons using these prediction models.

Methods

Patients with resectable esophageal cancer who underwent an esophagectomy were included in this prospective study. Prediction models for postoperative complications after esophagectomy were selected by a systematic literature search. Clinical judgment was given by three surgeons, indicating their estimated risk for postoperative complications in percentage categories. The best performing prediction model was compared with the judgment of the surgeons, using the net reclassification improvement (NRI), category-free NRI (cfNRI), and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) indexes.

Results

Overall, 159 patients were included between March 2019 and July 2021, of whom 88 patients (55%) developed a complication. The best performing prediction model showed an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.56. The three surgeons had an AUC of 0.53, 0.55, and 0.59, respectively, and all surgeons showed negative percentages of cfNRIevents and IDIevents, and positive percentages of cfNRInonevents and IDIevents. This indicates that in the group of patients with postoperative complications, the prediction model performed better, whereas in the group of patients without postoperative complications, the surgeons performed better. NRIoverall was 18% for one surgeon, while the remainder of the NRIoverall, cfNRIoverall and IDIoverall scores showed small differences between surgeons and the prediction models.

Conclusion

Prediction models tend to overestimate the risk of any complication, whereas surgeons tend to underestimate this risk. Overall, surgeons’ estimations differ between surgeons and vary between similar to slightly better than the prediction models.
Treatment of perianal fistulas in Crohn’s disease - review of literature and current recommendations
Authors: Szawica Dominik , Kuźniar Aleksandra , Fularska Kamila , Oleszko Michał , Wąsiewicz Edward , Bernacki Radosław , Bernacki Piotr , Dutka Martyna , Zardzewiały Witold
Published: April 2023

Introduction: Crohn's disease is an idiopathic inflammatory disorder of unknown etiology, associated with genetic, immunological, and environmental factors. The incidence of this disease continues to rise in developed countries. In almost 25% of patients, perianal fistulas occur during the course of the disease, which are difficult to treat and significantly impair the patient's quality of life.

Aim of the study: To summarize the current state of knowledge on the treatment of Crohn's disease with perianal fistulas, with a particular focus on biological therapies and stem cell treatments.

Methods and Materials: A systemic review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect databases and it was limited to studies published in last 5 years. The search strategy was based on following terms: "Crohn's disease", "perianal fistula", "biological treatment", and "inflammatory bowel disease".

Results: In recent years, there has been intensive research into new treatment options for perianal fistulas in Crohn's disease. Infliximab remains the first-line therapy, best controlled by monitoring the drug concentration in the serum. Alternatively, other drugs such as ustekinumab and vedolizumab may be considered. The combination of biological and surgical treatment is a recognized standard of care and modern, minimally invasive techniques that preserve sphincters, such as the FiLaC™ laser procedure, are increasingly being used. A novel and very promising therapeutic approach is based on mesenchymal stem cells, which may offer hope for patients who do not improve with standard treatment.

Conclusion: Perianal disease in patients with Crohn's disease poses a significant therapeutic challenge and has a substantial negative impact on the physical and emotional well-being of patients. Despite the existence of various therapeutic options, a certain percentage of patients still fails to achieve clinical remission. Further research into new therapies is necessary.
Invasive treatment of selected psychiatric diseases
Authors: Basiaga Bartosz , Bednarz Krzysztof , Trojan Sara , Leśniak Marek , Kwieciński Jakub , Miszuda Sławomir , Błaszczyk Agnieszka , Fussek-Styga Urszula , Szwedkowicz Agata , Heluszka Jakub
Published: April 2023

Mental disorders are a significant clinical problem due to the frequent ineffectiveness of their treatment. This is due to the not fully understood etiopathogenesis of these diseases. Often, the mechanism of action of a given therapy is not known and it is not clear why treatments that work in some patients may not produce any clinical improvement in others. The currently used pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy often turn out to be insufficient, which prompts the search for other methods of therapy, including neurosurgical methods. The currently carried out attempts at neurosurgical treatment of mental disorders differ greatly in terms of precision and surgical technique from the controversial procedures from the middle of the last century. Ablative methods and deep brain stimulation, which has been increasingly used in recent years,
The correlation between Yerba Mate and cancer - a review
Authors: Wróblewska Kinga , Wróblewski Hubert , Zajączkowska Monika , Wójtowicz Bartosz , Zimna Aleksandra , Zygmunt-Siembida Ewelina , Piecewicz-Szczęsna Halina
Published: April 2023

Introduction and objective

Yerba Mate (YM) is a popular drink obtained from the dried and ground leaves of the Ilex paraguariens. The beneficial effects of Yerba Mate on the cardiovascular system, lipid-lowering, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective and stimulating properties are known, however, there are also reports supporting its toxicity, that the consumption of Yerba Mate may predispose to the development of cancer. The purpose of this article is to present and organize information on the correlation between drinking Yerba Mate and cancer.

Review methods

A review of the available literature was performed by searching the PubMed and Google Scholar databases using the following keywords: Yerba Mate and cancer, Yerba Mate.

Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge

Substances contained in Yerba Mate have a positive impact on the human body. They exert health-promoting effects, e.g. increasing HDL levels and enhancing the antioxidant effect. A particularly desirable effect of Yerba Mate is its modulating effect on the course of the carcinogenesis process. Current knowledge on this subject is not complete. There are no evidences that substances in Yerba Mate without other risk factors increase the risk of oesophageal cancer. It is worth emphasizing that the properties of the Yerba Mate components are related to the reduction of the development of metastases of other cancers.

Summary

Despite the carcinogenic PAHs contained in the YM extract, there is no clear evidence that drinking it alone, without taking into account the temperature of the drink, could predispose to the development of esophageal cancer. Many substances found in YM have a beneficial effect on the human body.
Efficacy of ultrasonography-guided compared to surface landmark-based corticosteroid injection for people with chronic pes anserine tendinitis or bursitis: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zavarei Sarvenaz , Soltani Shayesteh Khalifeh , Raissi Gholamreza , Babaei-Ghazani Arash , Safarnezhad Saeed , Soleymanzadeh Hosnieh , Ahadi Tannaz
Published: April 2023

Background/Aims

One of the main aetiologies of patients' symptoms who have degenerative knee disease is pes anserine tendinitis or bursitis. Local corticosteroid injection is an effective treatment for chronic cases. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of an ultrasonography-guided corticsosteroid injection vs a landmark-based injection.

Methods

A total of 31 patients with clinical chronic (>3 months) pes anserine tendinitis bursitis, confirmed by ultrasonography, were randomised into two groups. One group received a corticosteroid injection (40 mg triamcinolone acetonide) with ultrasonographic guidance, and the other group received a corticosteroid injection without ultrasonographic guidance. Participants and the assessor were blind to the type of procedure. Participants were clinically assessed using the Western Ontario and McMaster University knee questionnaire before and 2 weeks after the injection and a visual analogue scale before, 2 and 12 weeks after the injection.

Results

There were significant decreases for both groups in the visual analogue scale at 2 weeks and 12 weeks after the injection, with a superior decline in the ultrasound-guided group (mean difference: 60.00, P<0.001 in ultrasound-guided group, and mean difference: 25.33, P<0.022 in the surface landmark-based group). The Western Ontario and McMaster University questionnaire scores also demonstrated significant improvement in both groups, with no preferential difference between groups (mean difference: 26.87, P<0.001 in the ultrasound-guided group, and mean difference: 22.20, P<0.001 in the surface landmark-based group).

Conclusions

Steroid injection is an effective treatment to manage chronic pes anserine bursitis, and ultrasonography guidance may further improve clinical outcomes.
Assuring IOT Device Robustness Through Hil Testing
Authors: Wrigley Peter
Published: April 2023

The test-driven development of IoT-enabled products must include hardware in the loop if designers are to have confidence in their designs. Peter Wrigley explains
Engineering the Future
Authors: Beck Chris
Published: April 2023

A major new report is calling on government to rethink the way engineering is taught in schools in order to combat the skills crisis facing the sector
Bridge the Gap
Authors: Roper Jack
Published: April 2023

Leading railroads and locomotive manufacturers in the US share how they are achieving near-term emission reduction goals through the use of bio and renewable fuels
Tang Hanedanlığı Dönemi Çin Müziği ve Türk Kavimlerinin Çin Müziğine Etkileri
Authors: PAMUK ÖZTÜRK Nuray
Published: April 2023

Tang Hanedanlığı, Çin tarihinde kültürel ve edebi zenginliğin en fazla görüldüğü dönemdir. Bu dönemde Türk kavimleriyle yaşanan askerî mücadeleler dışında Türk kültürünün Çin kültürüne yansımaları da açıkça görülmektedir. Kültürel yansımalardan bir tanesi olan müzik, çalışmamızın ana konusunu oluşturmaktadır. Türk kavimlerinin geniş bir coğrafi alanı kapsıyor olması sebebiyle konu, etkileşimin en fazla olduğu Göktürkler, Uygurlar ve Kırgızların müzik kültürleriyle sınırlandırılmıştır. Önce bu üç Türk kavminin müzik kültürleri hakkında bilgi verilmiştir. Çalışmanın devamında

Tang dönemi Çin müziği anlatılmış, adı geçen Tük kavimlerinin müziklerinin Çin müziğine etkisi üzerinde durulmuştur. Türk müziğinin etkisiyle Çin müziği; yeni müzik sistemlerinin oluştuğu, pek çok müzisyenin yetiştiği, yenilendiği, zenginleştiği bir döneme girmiştir. Bu dönemde beş tanesi Türk kültürüne ait müzikler olan On Müzik Türü oluşturulmuş; pek çok Türk kökenli müzisyen Çin’de ünlenmiş; İmparatorluk Müzik Akademisinde yeni müzik sistemleri hakkında eğitim verilmiş, yetiştirilen müzisyenlerin birçoğu saray orkestrasında görevlendirilmiş; yeni müzikler, müzik aletleri ve danslar halk arasında beğeni toplamış ve yayılmıştır.
Leveling Entrepreneurial Skills of Vocational Secondary School Students in Indonesia: Impact of Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Susantiningrum Susantiningrum , Siswandari Siswandari , Joyoatmojo Soetarno , Mafruhah Izza
Published: April 2023

Context: This article aims to determine the entrepreneurial skills of Vocational Secondary School students after the implementation of a new curriculum that promotes entrepreneurship courses in Indonesia. The authors believe that after taking such courses, students will be able to generate entrepreneurial skills. This study also explores the effect of demographic characteristics on students' entrepreneurship skills level, especially with respect to gender, school, and family. Approach: This study used a quantitative approach, with data collected through a questionnaire with five variables, that is, leadership, reflective communication, risk-taking, creatively innovative, and future orientation. Data were collected from 463 students who had taken entrepreneurship subjects that were chosen randomly. Data were analyzed using linear regression. Findings: 52.22% of our respondents had a moderate score for entrepreneurial skills, this is not in accordance with the expected learning outcomes, there are students who have entrepreneurial skills at a high level. With respect to creative innovation, in particular, a majority (53.15%) had a low score and 4.1% had a very low score. Moreover, family had a significant and positive effect on all dependent variables (leadership scores, reflective communication scores, risk-taking scores, creatively innovative scores, future orientation scores, and overall entrepreneurial skills scores). School demographic characteristics had a significant positive effect on the value of future orientation. These results indicate that private schools tend to strengthen the level of reflective communicative scores. Conclusion: The entrepreneurial skills of most vocational students are middling. This indicates that entrepreneurship subjects at Vocational Secondary schools have not been able to achieve their expected learning outcomes or help students develop entrepreneurial skills at a high level. Thus, further research is needed to determine the causes behind the problem. Schools are expected to be able to establish harmonious relationships by involving families to support the improvement of an informal learning environment that supports the mastery of entrepreneurial skills of vocational students.
Amplitude noise suppression in Yb:doped NALM laser oscillators based on saturable absorber settings
Authors: Pecile Vito , Mayer Aline Sophie , Ballentin Jonas , Heckl Oliver
Published: April 2023

We present an amplitude noise suppression effect in a mode-locked Yb:doped nonlinear amplifying loop mirror (NALM) fiber laser oscillator. The noise suppression can be achieved by tuning the phase bias of the saturable absorber of the laser. We provide a systematic investigation of a laser state in the slightly-negative, close-to-zero intracavity group delay dispersion operation regime, where it is possible to tune the saturable absorber settings without losing mode-locked operation. Our results show, that it is possible to decrease the amplitude noise of the laser by simply rotating a wave-plate within the laser cavity by more than 50 %. We discuss accompanying changes in the optical spectrum, output power, and differences to the effect observed in a NALM-alike laser amplifier, as well as the effect on the amplitude noise when changing the output coupling of the laser.
Hygiene and biosecurity conditions of initial examination on-spot in Portugal: One step toward game meat safety
Authors: Abrantes Ana Carolina , Ferreira Maria Pureza , Ruano Zita , Vinhas Bruno , Vaz Yolanda , Vieira-Pinto Madalena
Published: April 2023

Background and Aim: Due to the particularities of the first steps of the game food chain, large game species are shot, bled, and handled in collection points (spot of evisceration and initial examination in the field). These steps of the game meat chain affect the microbiological quality of this type of meat, thus posing a risk to consumers. This study aimed to characterize the collection points in terms of central hygiene and biosecurity procedures/requirements.

Materials and Methods: One survey with 16 questions was applied in 95 hunting areas throughout Portugal. It was a convenience sample obtained by direct visualization on-spot procedures. Four categories were characterized in the survey: Initial examination (performance assiduity and type of operator performing it), hygiene requirements on-spot (floor, ceiling, water, and electricity), biosecurity procedures such on initial examination (use of personal protective equipment as gloves, glasses, mask, and specific clothes), and by-products disposal (destination and packaging of by-products).

Results: Sixty percentage (n = 57) eviscerated the carcasses and performed the initial examination on-spot. Moreover, most of the time (n = 71), the initial examination was carried out by veterinarians. However, the category that showed the best results was those related to the biosecurity procedures on initial examination, mainly with the use of the individual protective material (e.g., regular use of disposal clothes and specific clothes). Concerning the questions about the disposal of by-products, 66 game managers say that this was done correctly (69%), being the majority destination of the inspected carcasses was the burial (64%; n = 47).

Conclusion: This survey demonstrates an immediate need in all this problematic of the standardization of hygiene and biosecurity requirements of the collection points, which requires uniform application of rules. There is a lot of resistance and limitations to the inclusion of these requirements in collection points, due to lack of structural and financial conditions. However, training all those involved in the hunting area (hunters, game managers, authorities, etc.) creating rules that promote hunting food security and setting limits on the microbiological criteria of game meat are hot points to consider in the future.

Keywords: food safety, good practices, public health.
Attenuation of Hemodynamic Response to Laryngoscopy and Endotracheal Intubation with Two Different Doses of Labetalol in Controlled Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Sagarika Borah  , Bandana Mahanta  , Sushmita Borah
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

In this study, we wanted to compare the efficacy of two different doses of Labetalol for controlling the hemodynamic responses to laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation under the same anaesthetic techniques in controlled hypertensive patients.

 

METHODS

This was a hospital-based prospective, randomized, and double-blinded study conducted among 96 patients who presented for a pre-anaesthetic check-up to the Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, at Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, over a period of 1 year from 1st September 2021 to 31st August 2022 after obtaining clearance from the institutional ethics committee, and written informed consent from the study participants.

 

RESULTS

Intragroup comparison of mean SBP in patients receiving IV Labetalol 0. 15 mg/Kg and IV Labetalol 0. 3mg/Kg was statistically significant. In an intragroup comparison of mean DBP in patients receiving IV Labetalol 0. 15 mg/Kg, it was significant at 5 and 10 mins. In a comparison of changes in DBP and MAP at various predetermined time intervals i. e., at intubation, it was statistically significant. In an intragroup comparison of mean RPP in in patients receiving IV Labetalol 0. 3mg/Kg in comparison to the baseline, it was significant at 10 mins.

 

CONCLUSIONS

Both doses of IV Labetalol (0. 15 mg/Kg and 0. 3 mg/Kg), given 5 mins before endotracheal intubation are effective in attenuating the hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation in controlled hypertensive patients. In comparison to the IV Labetalol dose of 0. 15 mg/Kg, attenuation of hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation was more in IV Labetalol 0. 3 mg/Kg.