bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The transferability of laparoscopic and open surgical skills to robotic surgery
Authors: Sundelin Maria Ordell , Paltved Charlotte , Kingo Pernille Skjold , Kjölhede Henrik , Jensen Jørgen Bjerggaard
Published: September 2022

Background

Within the last decades, robotic surgery has gained popularity. Most robotic surgeons have changed their main surgical activity from open or laparoscopic without prior formal robotic training. With the current practice, it is of great interest to know whether there is a transfer of surgical skills. In visualization, motion scaling, and freedom of motion, robotic surgery resembles open surgery far more than laparoscopic surgery. Therefore, our hypothesis is that open-trained surgeons have more transfer of surgical skills to robotic surgery, compared to surgeons trained in laparoscopy.

Methods

Thirty-six surgically inexperienced medical students were randomized into three groups for intensive simulation training in an assigned modality: open surgery, laparoscopy, or robot-assisted laparoscopy. The training period was, for all study subjects, followed by performing a robot-assisted bowel anastomosis in a pig model. As surrogate markers of surgical quality, the anastomoses were tested for resistance to pressure, and video recordings of the procedure were evaluated by two blinded expert robotic surgeons, using a global rating scale of robotic operative performance (Global Evaluative Assessment of Robotic Skills (GEARS)).

Results

The mean leak pressure of bowel anastomosis was 36.25 (7.62–64.89) mmHg in the laparoscopic training group and 69.01 (28.02–109.99) mmHg in the open surgery group, and the mean leak pressure for the robotic training group was 108.45 (74.96–141.94) mmHg. The same pattern was found with GEARS as surrogate markers of surgical quality. GEARS score was 15.71 (12.37–19.04) in the laparoscopic training group, 18.14 (14.70–21.58) in the open surgery group, and 22.04 (19.29–24.79) in the robotic training group. In comparison with the laparoscopic training group, the robotic training group had a statistically higher leak pressure (p = 0.0015) and GEARS score (p = 0.0023). No significant difference, for neither leak pressure nor GEARS, between the open and the robotic training group.

Conclusion

In our study, training in open surgery was superior to training in laparoscopy when transitioning to robotic surgery in a simulation setting performed by surgically naive study subjects.
Relationship between patient activation and self-efficacy among patients undergoing hemodialysis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mirmazhari Reyhane , Ghafourifard Mansour , Sheikhalipour Zahra
Published: September 2022

Background

Patient activation in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly being prioritized and considered a quality metric in CKD. Given the importance of patients’ activation in improving the quality of chronic disease care, this study aimed to assess patients’ activation levels and its relationship with self-efficacy among patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a total of 180 patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis were selected by random sampling from the largest hemodialysis center (dialysis center of Emam Reza hospital, Tabriz) in Iran. Data were collected by demographics, patient activation measure, and chronic kidney disease self-efficacy (CKD-SE) scale from March to May 2021. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS software (ver. 26) using ANOVA, t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and multiple regression tests.

Results

The majority of the participants (35%) were at level 1 of activation and only 28.9% of the individuals were at level 4. According to the results, the mean score of self-efficacy in patients undergoing hemodialysis (in a possible range of 0–10) was 5.50 ± 1.45. Multiple regression analysis showed that factors including self-efficacy, educational level, and marital status were significant predictors of change in patient activation (R2 = 0.85, adjusted R2 = 0.66, p < 0.001). The results showed that self-efficacy was the main predictor of patient activation (β = 0.49, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

According to the result, improving the patients' self-efficacy could improve the patient's activation. Moreover, patients with lower educational level reported the lower activation score; therefore, health care providers should improve the knowledge of patients with lower educational level, encourage them to be more active in their health care, and help them in providing more tailored strategies to improve the quality of care more efficiently. Furthermore, Measuring patients' activation level at admission to the dialysis unit is recommended for all patients undergoing hemodialysis.
An urban-level prediction of lockdown measures impact on the prevalence of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pourroostaei Ardakani Saeid , Xia Tianqi , Cheshmehzangi Ali , Zhang Zhiang
Published: September 2022

The world still suffers from the COVID-19 pandemic, which was identified in late 2019. The number of COVID-19 confirmed cases are increasing every day, and many governments are taking various measures and policies, such as city lockdown. It seriously treats people’s lives and health conditions, and it is highly required to immediately take appropriate actions to minimise the virus spread and manage the COVID-19 outbreak. This paper aims to study the impact of the lockdown schedule on pandemic prevention and control in Ningbo, China. For this, machine learning techniques such as the K-nearest neighbours and Random Forest are used to predict the number of COVID-19 confirmed cases according to five scenarios, including no lockdown and 2 weeks, 1, 3, and 6 months postponed lockdown. According to the results, the random forest machine learning technique outperforms the K-nearest neighbours model in terms of mean squared error and R-square. The results support that taking an early lockdown measure minimises the number of COVID-19 confirmed cases in a city and addresses that late actions lead to a sharp COVID-19 outbreak.
A rare case of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens infection in the eye: a case report
Authors: Mallick Pauline
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To report a rare case of microbial keratitis caused byCurtobacterium flaccumfaciens (C. flaccumfaciens) infection.

Methods and results

A 24-year-old male presented with pain and redness of the eye following ocular exposure to banana bell sap. He was diagnosed with infectious keratitis and underwent corneal scraping. Subsequent culture and molecular analysis identified the causative organism asC. flaccumfaciens.Keratitis clinically resolved following several weeks of topical therapy with ciprofloxacin 0.3%.

Conclusion

Curtobacterium flaccumfaciensis a rare and likely underdiagnosed cause of bacterial keratitis. This report provides further evidence of its pathogenic role in not only plants, but also the human cornea, especially in the tropics.
“It cannot be boring!”: Developing a measure of function for young adults accessing integrated youth services
Authors: Barbic Skye , Brooks Emily , Lassak Natalia , Khaleghi Mo , Zenone Marco , Ow Nikki , Leon Adelena , Mathias Steve
Published: September 2022

Background

In Canada, the prevalence of mental health challenges is highest in young people aged 12–24. Mental health challenges frequently cause marked functional impairment. Despite this, we are unaware of any existing conceptualization and/or measures offunctionthat has been developed from the perspective of young people. The objective of this paper is to develop a conceptual and measurement model, including a preliminary set of items, for an outcome measure of function for young adults accessing mental health services.

Methods

We conducted this study in three phases. In phase 1, we conducted three focus groups to conceptualize function as a construct from the perspective of young adults. In phase 2, we co-designed a set of items with youth (n = 4) to capture the construct. In phase 3, we invited young people (n = 12) accessing mental health services to complete workbooks and participate in one of two focus groups to evaluate whether items were clear, captured function comprehensively, and were relevant. We transcribed and compiled all data to eliminate, refine and generate new items.

Results

In phase 1, a conceptual model of function was developed with three main themes: basic needs, roles and responsibilities, and social connections.In phase 2, 97 candidate items were developed, and in phase 3, a candidate pool of 50 items resulted for psychometric testing.

Conclusion

This youth-centred conceptualization of function and preliminary item bank has the potential to advance person-centred care, outcomes, and experiences for youth seeking mental health services.
Embolisation of the parenchymal tract after percutaneous portal vein catheterization: a retrospective comparison of outcomes with different techniques in two centres
Authors: Marra Paolo , Carbone Francesco Saverio , Augello Luigi , Dulcetta Ludovico , Muglia Riccardo , Bonaffini Pietro Andrea , Della Corte Angelo , Steidler Stephanie , Gusmini Simone , Guazzarotti Giorgia , Palumbo Diego , Venturini Massimo , De Cobelli Francesco , Sironi Sandro
Published: September 2022

Background

Embolisation of the parenchymal tract is a key step after any other transhepatic or transplenic percutaneous portal vein catheterization since eventual venous bleeding is difficult to control and may require surgical management. Different techniques have been proposed to perform tract embolisation. The aim of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of different techniques of haemostasis of the parenchymal tract.

Materials and methods

All the interventional procedures with percutaneous transhepatic or transplenic access to the portal vein (excluding ipsilateral portal vein embolisation) from January 2010 to July 2020, in two tertiary hospitals, were retrospectively analyzed. The following data were evaluated: access site, the technique of embolisation, technical success in terms of immediate thrombosis of the tract, safety and clinical efficacy in terms of the absence of hemorrhagic and thrombotic complications.

Results

One-hundred-sixty-one patients underwent 220 percutaneous transhepatic or transplenic portal vein catheterization procedures. The main indications were pancreatic islet transplantation, portal anastomotic stenosis after liver transplantation, and portal vein thrombosis recanalization. As embolic materials gelfoam was used in 105 cases, metallic micro-coils in 54 cases, and cyanoacrylic glue in 44 cases; in 17 cases the parenchymal tract was not embolized. Technical success was 98% without significant difference among groups (p-value = 0.22). Eighteen post-procedural abdominal bleedings occurred, all grade 3 and were managed conservatively; difference among groups was not significant (p-value = 0.25). We detected 12 intrahepatic portal branch thromboses not related to the embolisation technique; only one case of non-target embolisation was documented after liver tract embolisation with glue, without clinical consequences.

Conclusion

Embolisation of the parenchymal tract after percutaneous portal vein catheterization is technically safe and effective. No significant differences were found between coils, glue, and gelfoam in effectiveness and complications rate.

Level of evidence

Level 3, Cohort study.
The recognition of oral manifestations of haematological disease saves lives: a case report
Authors: Aurora Fabienne , Arasaretnam Anita , Hobkirk Andrew
Published: September 2022

Background

Acute Leukaemias are haematological disorders characterised by the proliferation of immature white blood cells in the bone marrow and/or peripheral blood. Oral manifestations of leukaemia are common and may be the first sign of the disease. The clinical presentation of these Acute Leukaemias may include neutropenic sepsis, hyperviscocity and coagulopathy which confer a potential morbidity and mortality. Clinicians must be able to recognise this pattern of presentation.

Case report

We report a 34-year-old female who was referred to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department with acute dental pain and pericoronitis. She subsequently had a simple dental extraction but re-presented with a bleeding socket that did not respond to local treatment. Investigation of this led to a diagnosis of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL). She was admitted under the care of the haematology team for urgent, life-saving, treatment.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis and treatment of the Acute Leukaemias can be life saving. The oral manifestations of disease are common and may be the first sign. Clinicians must be able to recognise this pattern of presentation and arrange urgent investigation and specialist management. 

Clinical/CPD relevance

This case report discusses leukaemia and highlights the important role General Dental Practitioners can play in early diagnosis. We frame a safe approach to managing these patients in a typical case. Whilst this disease subtype is rare, the learning points can be universally applied.
Short-term effects of post-fire salvage logging intensity and activity on breeding birds in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, USA
Authors: Fogg Alissa M. , Roberts L. Jay , Burnett Ryan D. , Campos Brent R.
Published: September 2022

Background

Salvage logging of fire-killed trees in western US conifer forests has been shown to negatively affect many wildlife species, but there are few quantitative studies from the Sierra Nevada, CA. Salvage intensity (i.e., the proportion of fire-killed trees removed during logging activities) has also rarely been measured; instead, most studies track the presence/absence of salvage activities. We explored the effects of post-fire salvage on the breeding bird community following the 2012 Chips and 2013 Rim fires using a before-after control-impact sample design, and modeled species responses to salvage including a test of whether species responded to salvage intensity or the presence of salvage activities as a whole.

Results

Salvage operations removed an average of 71% of the snag basal area in the Chips Fire and 64% in the Rim Fire within 50 m of our salvaged survey locations. Bird species responses to salvage in both fires were largely non-significant or negative (Chips: 11 negative, 4 positive, 19 non-significant; Rim: 13 negative, 4 positive, 20 non-significant). Statistical support for the salvage intensity vs. salvage activity models was split evenly among all species. Positive salvage responders in both fires included species adapted to open habitats and seed consumers, while a wide variety of species, including woodpeckers, species associated with open and dense mature forest, and some shrub nesters, responded negatively to salvage. We also evaluated five salvage prescription scenarios based on snag basal area, salvage intensity, and area treated to determine whether any combination could minimize the negative effects on the salvage-sensitive species yet retain the same salvage yield. The scenarios with the smallest area targeted with high-intensity salvage saw the smallest declines in abundance and diversity, but nearly all scenarios reduced both measures.

Conclusions

No combinations of salvage intensity and distribution from among the scenarios we explored were able to fully mitigate the negative effect on the bird community; however, the magnitude of declines in abundance and diversity was smaller than expected, and the majority of the species analyzed had a non-significant response. We recommend targeting salvage activities in the Sierra Nevada to those locations where snags pose a safety issue or where reforestation is most needed to conserve this fire-adapted bird community.
Some thoughts on analytical choices in the scaling model for test scores in international large-scale assessment studies
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander , Lüdtke Oliver
Published: September 2022

International large-scale assessments (LSAs), such as the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), provide essential information about the distribution of student proficiencies across a wide range of countries. The repeated assessments of the distributions of these cognitive domains offer policymakers important information for evaluating educational reforms and received considerable attention from the media. Furthermore, the analytical strategies employed in LSAs often define methodological standards for applied researchers in the field. Hence, it is vital to critically reflect on the conceptual foundations of analytical choices in LSA studies. This article discusses the methodological challenges in selecting and specifying the scaling model used to obtain proficiency estimates from the individual student responses in LSA studies. We distinguish design-based inference from model-based inference. It is argued that for the official reporting of LSA results, design-based inference should be preferred because it allows for a clear definition of the target of inference (e.g., country mean achievement) and is less sensitive to specific modeling assumptions. More specifically, we discuss five analytical choices in the specification of the scaling model: (1) specification of the functional form of item response functions, (2) the treatment of local dependencies and multidimensionality, (3) the consideration of test-taking behavior for estimating student ability, and the role of country differential items functioning (DIF) for (4) cross-country comparisons and (5) trend estimation. This article’s primary goal is to stimulate discussion about recently implemented changes and suggested refinements of the scaling models in LSA studies.
An error in interpretation and real extraordinary electrocardiographic changes in patient with acute traumatic spondylolisthesis
Authors: Karacali Kadir , Yalcinkaya Damla , Ilhan Bilal Canberk , Yarlioglues Mikail
Published: September 2022

Background

Acute cervical spinal trauma may lead to cardiac effects by influencing cardiac sympathetic preganglionic fibers. Some of these effects, which are vital, may occur in ECG.

Case presentation

A 52-year-old female patient admitted to the emergency department with acute traumatic spondylolisthesis atC6-C7 level and paraplegia. Positive QRS complex, ST segment depressions and prolongation of QTc interval were observed on ECG according to sudden autonomic disruption because of sympathetic nerve compression. It was mentioned that changes in QRS complex axis was normal which was dependent to the ECG display format of Cabrera sequence used differently from the classical system. After surgical correction, evident ST depressions were recovered and QTc intervalwas narrowed but still prolonged in control ECG.

Conclusions

Autonomic dysfunction can lead to extraordinary electrocardiographic presentation including widespread ST depressions with prolonged QTc interval. However, when evaluating the changes in the ECG, attention should be paid to ECG display format to avoid errors in interpretation.
Medicinal pteridophytes: ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical attributes
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Anustup , Dey Abhijit
Published: September 2022

Background

Almost from the very beginning of human existence, man has been interacting with plants. Throughout human history, plants have provided humans with basic needs such as sustenance, firewood, livestock feed, and wood. The world has approximately 3 million vascular plants. The treatment of primary health problems is provided primarily by traditional medicines by around 80% of the world's population. Compared to other vascular plants, pteridophytes remain underexplored in ethnobotanical aspects, despite being regarded as a valuable component of healthcare for centuries. As an alternative medicine, pteridophytes are being investigated for their pharmacological activity. Almost 2000 years ago, humans were exploring and using plant species from this lineage because of its beneficial properties since pteridophytes were the first vascular plants.

Main body of the abstract

All popular search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus were searched to retrieve the relevant literature using various search strings relevant to the topic. Pteridophytes belonging to thirty different families have been documented as medicinal plants. For instance, Selaginella sp. has been demonstrated to have numerous therapeutic properties, including antioxidative, inflammation-reducing, anti-carcinogenic, diabetes-fighting, virucidal, antibacterial, and anti-senile dementia effects. In addition, clinical trials and studies performed on pteridophytes and derived compounds are also discussed in details.

Short conclusion

This review offers a compilation of therapeutically valuable pteridophytes utilized by local ethnic groups, as well as the public.

Graphical Abstract
Circadian mechanism disruption is associated with dysregulation of inflammatory and immune responses: a systematic review
Authors: Fatima Nazmin , Sonkar Gyanendra Kumar , Singh Sangeeta
Published: September 2022

The circadian rhythms are regulated by the circadian clock which is under the control of suprachiasmatic nucleus of hypothalamus. The central and peripheral clocks on different tissue together synchronize to form circadian system. Factors disrupt the circadian rhythm, such as irregular eating patterns, sleep/wake time, night shift work and temperature. Due to the misalignment of central clock components, it has been recognized as the pathophysiology of lifestyle-related diseases mediated by the inflammation such as diabetes, obesity, neurological disorder and hormonal imbalance. Also we discuss the therapeutic effect of time-restricted feeding over diabetes and obesity caused by miscommunication between central and peripheral clock. The genetic and epigenetic changes involve due to the deregulation of circadian system. The aim of the present review is to discuss the circadian mechanisms that are involved in the complex interaction between host and external factors and its disruption is associated with deregulation of inflammatory and immune responses. Hence, we need to understand the mechanism of functioning of our biological clocks so that it helps us treat health-related problems such as jet lags, sleep disorders due to night-time shift work, obesity and mental disturbances. We hope minimal cost behavioural and lifestyle changes can improve circadian rhythms and presumably provide a better health.
Experimental design approach, screening and optimization of system variables, analytical method development of flurbiprofen in nanoparticles and stability-indicating methods for high-pressure liquid chromatography
Authors: Mandpe Shilpa R. , Parate Vishal R. , Naik Jitendra B.
Published: September 2022

Background

The development of chromatographic method and the validation of a sensitive, simple, efficient, and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) approach were adopted for the drug flurbiprofen (FBP) in nanoparticles formulation by using a design of experiment (DoE). The critical method variables (CMVs) were screened using a statistical two-level fractional factorial design (FFD) followed by optimization of the selected CMVs that influence the analytical responses (ARs) of the RP-HPLC process by using two-level full factorial design.

Results

Statistical models are used to investigate the effects of system factors including column temperature, flow rate, and methanol in orthophosphoric acid (OPA) on the dependent responses, retention time, peak area, tailing factor, and theoretical plates in HPLC. The ideal column temperature (25 °C), flow rate (1 ml/min), and mobile phase (methanol 85 percent v/v in 0.05 percent OPA in water) were selected independently from the response surface at three levels (1, + 1, and 0) for further validation at constant solvent pH 2.75. Optimized method in the RP-HPLC resulted a retention time of 4.75 min, a peak area of 3975.12, a tailing factor of 0.73, and a total of 9697.7 theoretical plates followed by validation in accordance with the current ICH recommendations Q2 (R1). Linearity, precision, accuracy, assay, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), and robustness were all included in validation. The calibration curve was linear (r2 = 0.9997, slope = 70.72) for the concentration of 10 to 50 µg/ml, with a limit of detection of 0.14 µg/ml. Furthermore, stability-indicating methods demonstrate that drug degradation is highest in the presence of basic circumstances (about 96.49%), followed by oxidation (about 76.41%), and acidic conditions (about 48.12%), whereas drug is stable in some extent under neutral, photo (sunlight), and dry heat conditions.

Conclusions

Effect of independent variables on dependent responses was screened and optimized by using statistical software design. A method for drug development could be successfully implemented for the estimation of drug in nanoparticles formulation as well as for the routine analysis in bulk and pharmaceutical formulations. The high recovery and low relative standard deviation support the suitability of proposed method that could be employed.

Graphical Abstract
Isolated hypopharynx lipoma: a case presentation and literature review
Authors: Ouattassi Naouar , Qassab Omaima , Hammas Nawal , Oudidi Abdellatif , El Alami Mohamed Nouredine El Amine
Published: September 2022

Background

Lipomas are the most common benign mesenchymal tumors. They are defined as subcutaneous neoplasms of mature adipocyte cells that can occur wherever fatty tissue is. Lipomas are rare in the upper aerodigestive tract. Usually asymptomatic, they may be painful, uncomfortable, or even life-threatening especially if voluminous and located in the upper aerodigestive tract.

Case presentation

A 67-year-old female patient has presented with dyspnea on mild effort and chronic orthopnea. The physical examination was normal while the fiber optic endoscopy revealed a submucosal round-shaped mass rising from the left side of the post-cricoid region. CT scan revealed a well-circumscribed fatty mass of the left piriform sinus for which the patient underwent an endoscopic transoral approach for a complete removal with good results.

Discussion and conclusion

Pharyngeal lipomas are rare entities that might be life-threatening. Although clinical manifestations are not specific, imaging techniques, especially MRI, help set the diagnosis showing a fatty mass of the upper aerodigestive tract. However, pathology examination is crucial to rule out low-grade liposarcomas. Surgical management is not well-codified and has benefited from the development of endoscopic techniques.
Endobronchial management of bronchopleural fistula using vascular plug device—a case report
Authors: Gutte Avinash A. , Dembla Saurabh
Published: September 2022

Background

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a sinus tract between the pleural space and the main stem, lobar, or segmental bronchus. The development of a bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. An interdisciplinary approach, early diagnosis, and timely management of these lesions are critical in the management of such lesions.

Case presentation

We describe a case of bronchopleural fistula in a 42-year-old female patient, occurring after a surgery for pulmonary hydatid, which was successfully managed using a minimally invasive method of closure using Amplatzer vascular plug (AVP).

To our knowledge, the use of an AVP for the management of a BPF following hydatid cyst marsupialization has rarely been described in the past.

Conclusion

AVP is a useful device in the management of bronchopleural fistulas, especially in patients failing a trial of conservative management and are high-risk candidates for surgeries.
Association of loneliness and social network size in adulthood with childhood maltreatment: Analyses of a population-based and a clinical sample
Authors: Reinhard Matthias A. , Rek Stephanie V. , Nenov-Matt Tabea , Barton Barbara B. , Dewald-Kaufmann Julia , Merz Katharina , Musil Richard , Jobst Andrea , Brakemeier Eva-Lotta , Bertsch Katja , Padberg Frank
Published: September 2022

Background

Perceived loneliness and objective social network size are related but distinct factors, which negatively affect mental health and are prevalent in patients who have experienced childhood maltreatment (CM), for example, patients with persistent depressive disorder (PDD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). This cross-diagnostic study investigated whether loneliness, social network size, or both are associated with self-reported CM.

Methods

Loneliness and social network size were assessed in a population-based sample at two time points (Study 1,N = 509), and a clinical group of patients with PDD or BPD (Study 2,N = 190) using the UCLA Loneliness Scale and the Social Network Index. Further measures were the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and standard depression rating scales. Linear regression analyses were applied to compare associations of loneliness or social network size with CM. Multiple mediation analyses were used to test the relative importance of loneliness and social network size in the relationship between CM and depressive symptoms.

Results

In both studies, loneliness showed a stronger association than social network size with CM. This was particularly marked for emotional neglect and emotional abuse. Loneliness but not social network size mediated the relationship between CM and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Loneliness is particularly associated with self-reported CM, and in this respect distinct from the social network size. Our results underline the importance of differentiating both psychosocial constructs and suggest focusing on perceived loneliness and its etiological underpinnings by mechanism-based psychosocial interventions.
Fracture Risk in Pediatric Patients With MEN2B
Authors: Li Iris , Hartley Iris R , Klubo-Gwiedzdzinska Joanna , Reynolds James C , Thomas Barbara J , Hogan Julie , Enyew Mahider M , Dombi Eva , Ling Alexander , Akshintala Srivandana , Venzon David J , Del Rivero Jaydira , Collins Michael , Glod John W
Published: September 2022

Context

The skeletal phenotype of patients with MEN2B has been described but fracture risk in these patients has not yet been evaluated.

Objective

This work aims to better delineate fracture risk in patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2B (MEN2B).

Methods

This case series with chart review was conducted at the National Institutes of Health, Pediatric Oncology Branch. A total of 48 patients with MEN2B were identified, with an age range of 5 to 36 years, median of 19; 24 of 48 (50%) patients were female. Medical records, demographic information, available imaging, and laboratory results were reviewed. History up to age 19 was included in the statistical analyses.

Results

Of the 48 patients with MEN2B, 20 patients experienced at least one fracture. The majority (n = 18) experienced their first fracture at or before age 19. The observed frequency of fracture occurrence throughout childhood (0-19 years) was 38%, with very little difference between males and females. This frequency is higher than the 9.47 to 36.1 fractures per 1000 persons per year that has been reported in healthy pediatric cohorts in the United States. Less common sites of fracture including vertebral compression fracture and pelvic fractures were observed in patients with MEN2B.

Conclusion

In this group of patients with MEN2B, there was an increased overall risk of fracture compared to general pediatric cohorts in the United States. Less common sites of fracture were also observed. This suggests a possible effect of an activating RET mutation on bone physiology and warrants further investigation.
Synthesis of Highly Dispersed Zn-doped SnO2 Spherical Nano Materials for Anode of Lithium-ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Linlin , Zhang Penglin , Chen Xiujuan , Fang Yingqiang , Wu Jiakui , Zhang Quanwen
Published: September 2022

In this paper, Zn-doped spherical nano SnO2 lithium-ion battery anode materials were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis using surfactants. The physical and chemical characterization of the composite material was studied by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, constant-current cycling and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. When the doped content is 10 wt %, the cyclic stability and rate performance are better than other materials, and the discharge capacity is about 250.5 mAhg−1 after 100 cycles. The electrochemical measurement results show that Zn-doped spherical nano SnO2 composites have broad application prospects.
System-driven longitudinal follow-up of incidental imaging findings
Authors: Fu Tianyuan , Plecha Donna , Sommer Jennifer
Published: September 2022

Increasing utilization of cross-sectional imaging has resulted in more clinically significant incidental findings being discovered. However, the current approach for handling these findings is commonly inconsistent and relies greatly on the efforts of individual clinicians. Making sure every actionable incidental finding is handled in a consistent and reliable manner can be difficult, especially for a large health system. We propose an approach to handling incidental findings aimed at improving patient follow-up rates, which involves implementing system-level processes that standardize the reporting of incidental findings, notification of clinicians and the patient, and centralized monitoring of longitudinal patient follow-up. We will lay out a general framework for standardized reporting of incidental findings by the radiologist using software integrated into the daily workflow. This should enable simultaneous notification of the ordering clinician, the patient’s primary-care provider, and an incidental findings navigator. The navigator will “close the loop” by working with clinicians to notify the patient of the finding, coordinate patient follow-up, and document the finding and long-term follow-up. We hope this can serve as a basic framework to help large health systems design an incidental findings workflow to improve follow-up rates and reduce patient harm.
Manufacturing Technique of the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Mural Painting in Geungnakjeon Hall, Daewonsa Temple, Boseong
Authors: Yu Yeong Gyeong , Jee Bong Goo , Oh Ran Young , Lee Hwa Soo
Published: September 2022

The manufacturing technique was studied through the structure and material characteristics of the walls and the painting layers of the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva mural of Geungnakjeon Hall, Daewonsa Temple. The mural is painted and connected to the earthen wall and the Junggit, and the wall is composed of wooden laths as a frame, the first and middle layers, the finishing layer, and the painting layer. The first layer, middle layer, and finishing layer constituting the wall were made by mixing weathered soil and sand. It was confirmed that the first layer had a high content of loess below silt, and the finishing layer had a high content of fine-sand and very fine sand. For the painting layer, a ground layer was prepared using soil-based mineral pigments, and lead white, white clay, atacamite, minium, and cinnabar (or vermilion) pigments were used on top of it. The Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva mural was confirmed to belong to a category similar to the soil-made buddhist mural paintings of Joseon Dynasty. However, it shows characteristics such as a high content of fine sand in the finishing layer and overlapping over other colors. Such material and structural characteristics can constitute important information for future mural conservation status diagnoses and conservation treatment plans.
The manifestations of Livonian intangible cultural heritage across the Latvian and Estonian border: framing early field notes from research sites
Authors: Ozoliņa Lolita , Ernštreits Valts , Koreinik Kadri , Vītola Ieva
Published: September 2022

Today the Livonian core area includes 14 coastal villages on the northern Courland peninsula in the northwest of Latvia. Yet, the manifestations of Livonian intangible heritage can be observed in several cultural landscapes as Livonians once inhabited territories along the Gulf of Rīga, extending into modern Estonian lands and the lower course of the Gauja and Daugava Rivers. Despite the indigenous origin of Livonian culture, these manifestations are often marginalised and not immediately visible.

This paper seeks to describe the first comparative findings from the international research project “Re-voicing cultural landscapes: narratives, perspectives, and performances of marginalised intangible cultural heritage”, which brings together researchers from four European universities, incl. the University of Latvia and the University of Tartu.

Kokkuvõte. Lolita Ozoliņa, Valts Ernštreits, Kadri Koreinik, Ieva Vītola: Liivi vaimse kultuuripärandi manifestatsioonid Lätis ja üle piiri Eestis: raamistamas märkmeid välitöödelt. Nüüdsel ajal tuntakse liivi alana Kuramaa 14 rannaküla Loode-Lätis. Ometi leidub liivi vaimse kultuuripärandi märke nii mõnelgi pool mujal – neil kultuurimaastikel, kus piki Liivi lahe vasak ja paremkallast kulges liivlaste asustus, mis ulatus koguni Koiva ja Väina jõe alamjooksule ja üle riigipiiri Eestissegi. Vaatamata liivi kultuuri põlistele juurtele on need märgid aga marginaalseks kahandatud ja sestap silmale peidetud. Artikkel võtab kirjeldada ja võrrelda esmaseid andmeid rahvusvahelisest uurimisprojektist “Kultuurimaastike hääle taasleidmine: marginaliseeritud vaimse kultuuripärandi narratiivid, väljavaated ja toimimine”, mis toob kokku teadlasi neljast Euroopa ülikoolist, sh Läti ja Tartu ülikoolist.

Kubbõvõttõks. Lolita Ozoliņa, Valts Ernštreits, Kadri Koreinik, Ieva Vītola: Līvõd vaimliz kultūr pierāndõks manifestātsijd Lețmōl ja iļ rubīž Ēstimōl: tǟdõlpanmizt nurmtīestõ. Paldīņiz āigal amā jemīņ neku līvõd jeltõbkūož ātõ tundtõb 14 Kurmō rāndakillõ – Līvõd rānda. Sīegid līvõd vaimliz kultūr pierāndõks um liedtõb ka mūsõ – nēši kultūrmōnistis, kus mȯlmõd pūol Piškīzt mīerda vaņši aigši jelīztõ līvlizt, ja mis ulātizt Koiva ja Vēna jougūd sōņ ja iļ rubīž ka Ēstimōlõ. Vaņtlõmõt līvõ kultūr muinizt jūrd pǟl, se pierāndõks ni um sōnd jo pientizõks ja sīestõ ka siļmšti urgtõd. Kēra nīžõb ja ītlõb ežmiži tuņšlimiztieutidi rovvõdvailizõs tuņšlimizprojekts “Kultūrmōnistõd īel ūd pǟl lieudimi: margināliz vaimliz kultūr pierāndõks naratīvõd, tulbizt võimizt ja pīlimi”, mis tūob īdõkubbõ tuņšlijiži nēļast Eirōp iļīzskūolst, nänt siegās ka Tartu ja Lețmō Iļīzskūolst.
Evaluation of mental health services delivered before and after the introduction of pilot Mental Health Centers in Poland using monitoring indicators
Authors: Kiejna Andrzej , Zięba Mariusz , Cichoń Ewelina , Paciorek Sylwia , Janus Jolanta , Gondek Tomasz
Published: September 2022

Cel pracy

W badaniu oceniono funkcjonowanie Centrów Zdrowia Psychicznego (CZP) w porównaniu z wcześniejszymi niezintegrowanymi placówkami ochrony zdrowia psychicznego.

Metoda

W badaniu wykorzystano dane NFZ osób powyżej 18 lat leczonych w 27 ośrodkach (styczeń 2017 – luty 2020 r.). Porównano wskaźniki efektywności z 19 miesięcy przed (N = 124 497) i po rozpoczęciu działalności CZP (N = 182 789) dla opieki ambulatoryjnej, zespołów leczenia środowiskowego, oddziałów stacjonarnych i dziennych.

Wyniki

Całkowita liczba pacjentów otrzymujących psychiatryczne świadczenia zdrowotne wzrosła w porównaniu do okresu przed powołaniem CZP, natomiast liczba hospitalizacji spadła o 6%, a liczba osobodni na osobę spadła o 9%. W opiece dziennej zaobserwowano wzrost liczby przyjęć po wprowadzeniu CZP o 14%, przy spadku o 5% liczby osobodni na osobę. Odsetek pacjentów w opiece środowiskowej wzrósł o 86%, w ambulatoryjnej o 62%, a w dziennej o 14%. Liczba pacjentów pierwszorazowych po wprowadzeniu CZP wzrosła, a liczba pacjentów kolejnych spadła. Dla wszystkich grup zaburzeń psychicznych wskaźnik priorytetowości w opiece szpitalnej zmalał, natomiast w opiece ambulatoryjnej i środowiskowej dla większości grup zaburzeń wskaźnik priorytetowości wzrósł.

Wnioski

Wyniki potwierdziły skuteczność realizowanego projektu NPOZP w odniesieniu do dostępności i ograniczenia lecznictwa szpitalnego poprzez CZP. Zastosowana metodologia może być wykorzystana do oceny efektywności działalności CZP w kolejnych etapach pilotażu.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of functional rehabilitation in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Grochala Agata , Zdziarski Krzysztof
Published: September 2022

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system. May have individual and dynamic course, with symptoms of varying severity. It takes 4 forms: relapsing-remitting, primary progressive, secondary progressive and relapsing-chronic.

Aim of the research: Evaluation of the effectiveness of functional rehabilitation in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Material and methods: The research group consisted of 94 people (67 women and 27 men) aged 24-70 years, diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Study participants went through a four-week process rehabilitation based on functional exercise. In research the survey method was used and the research technique was used proprietary questionnaire.

Results: The research confirmed the improvement of physical fitness of patients suffering from multiple sclerosis due to the rehabilitation process. In total, 78.72% of the respondents described their physical condition as better or much better than before rehabilitation. Only a few – 3,19% – considered that rehabilitation did not improve the quality of life. The vast majority of respondents - 70.21% as a result of rehabilitation indicated an improvement in independence in everyday functioning. In 93,62% it influenced a better well-being.

Conclusions: A correlation has been demonstrated between the performance of kinesiotherapeutic rehabilitation in patients with multiple sclerosis and the improvement of their physical fitness. A significant difference was found in the degree of satisfaction with one’s own functional state before and after the rehabilitation process.
Plant Based Diets and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rozenbajgier Martyna , Wójcik-Grudzień Justyna , Pawłowska Paulina , Ozga-Stachurska Alicja
Published: September 2022

Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes in the world continues to increase. Most cases of type 2 diabetes are caused by modifiable risk factors, including unhealthy diets based on meat and processed products, low physical activity, overweight and obesity. Research suggests that plant-based diets have shown significant weight reduction benefits compared to non-plant-based diets and improve glycemic control to a greater extent than conventional diabetic diets.

The aim of the study: assessment of the frequency of developing diabetes t.2 in people eating various types of vegetarian diets compared to people whose diet contains animal products.

Material and methods: Standard criteria were used to review the literature data. The search of articles in the PubMed and Google Scholar database was carried out using the following keywords: plant based diet, vegetarian diet, type 2 diabetes.

Description of the state of knowledge: Food products such as red meat, especially processed meat, are one of the most important risk factors for metabolic disorders, including diabetes. A healthy and properly balanced plant-based diet can positively affect the carbohydrate metabolism. Due to the high fiber content, this diet has a low energy density. It also contains flavonoids and a high amount of antioxidants beneficial to human health.

Summary: Properly balanced vegetarian diets lower the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Plant-based diets range from vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, peso-vegetarian, and semi-vegetarian diets. Different types of diets show differences in therapeutic effects. The most important factor connecting these different diets is the focusing on whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts, legumes, and limiting consumption of saturated and trans fats.
Santísima Virgen María
Authors: Witko Andrzej
Published: September 2022

ON ICONOGRAPHY OF THE ORDER OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY IN 17TH-20TH CENTURIES. OUR LADY The presence of St. Mary in the Trinitarian iconography is significant but not dominant. The image of Our Lady del Remedio is the most popular which relates to the help that St. John de Matha got from St. Mary in two cases of redemption. Although Our Lady del Remedio was worshipped especially by the non-reformed Trinitarians and French Discalced Trinitarians, depictions of this kind can be found in all the branches of the Trinitarian Order. They usually show St. Mary handing John de Matha a purse with money; sometimes Our Lady with a purse and the Trinitarian scapular carrying the Child Jesus. The image of Our Lady del Remedio accompanied by the two Patriarchs was relatively rare. A similar type of Our Lady del Rescate was somewhat popular among the Calced Trinitarians. Both the Calced and Discalced Trinitarians worshipped the Immaculate Conception of Our Lady. This image was especially favoured by the reformed branch, but it was also popular among the Calced Trinitarians, particularly after the argument with the Mercedarians which the Trinitarians lost. The way of illustrating the Immaculate Conception is fairly traditional. The Discalced Trinitarians favoured the image of Our Lady de Gracia, which did not spread outside Spain whereas the type of Dolorosa, based on the spanish sculpture by Pedro de Mena y Medrano from the Trinitarian convent in Vienna, was exceptionally popular in the imperial province of the Order dedicated to St. Joseph. This latter image was often imitated in many paintings, graphics and sculptures. The most frequent scene was Our Lady appearing in the choir in Cerfroid at night of 7/8 September 1212. St. Felix de Valois is often pictured as pleading with St. Mary for the release of Christian slaves. This scene, after Giacinto Calandrucci’s drawing, was very popular in the 2nd half of 17th century. The iconography of St. Simon de Rojas shows reference to St. Mary, most often handing the Saint the cingulum of chastity and rosaries of Immaculate Conception.
The Effectiveness of Aloe-Based Drink in Reducing Glycated Albumin and Insulin Resistance of Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Aisya Rizki Widyan , Nugroho H.S K. Heri , Widyastiti Nyoman Suci , Tjahjono Kusmiyati- , Nur Afifah Diana
Published: September 2022

Insulin resistance (IR) has an important role in the pathology that forms the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Glycated Albumin (GA) has a role as an index of glycemic control associated with MetS. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) is a plant that has anti-diabetic and anti-hypercholesterolemic function. This study aims to investigate the effect of Aloe-based drink on GA and IR in MetS. This study was a true experimental using pre-post randomized control group design. Thirty-eight MetS subjects were divided into two groups: treatment group (n=19) which was provided by 165 g/d of Aloe-based drink for 4 weeks; and the control group (n=19). Both groups were given education regarding of management of MetS. GA was measured by using an ELISA method and IR calculated by HOMA-IR of both groups and statistically analyzed at baseline and the end of treatment. The data were analyzed using paired t-test and independent t-test. At the end of the study, the treatment group showed reduction of GA and HOMA-IR statistically significant (∆GA=-4.3±2.35%; p<0.001; ∆HOMA-IR=-1.6 ±1.87; p=0.001). Compared to control group, the change of GA and HOMA-IR in intervention group were also significantly different (p<0.001; p<0.001). Aloe-based drink was proven to reduce GA and IR in the MetS.