bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical observation on healing of tarsal plate defect after reconstruction with xenogeneic acellular dermal matrix
Authors: Huang Qin , Fang Yangbin , Wang Yaohua , Liao Hongfei
Published: July 2022

Objective

To evaluate the safety, function, and cosmetic outcome of eyelid reconstruction using a xenogeneic acellular dermal matrix as a tarsal plate replacement in the repair of 50 to 100% eyelid defects following excision of large malignant tumours.

Methods

A retrospective, non-comparative, interventional study of 21 eyes was performed over 26 months. Fourteen patients were female and seven were male. In all cases, a xenogeneic acellular dermal matrix was used for total or subtotal replacement of the tarsal plate. The central vertical height of the palpebral fissure was measured immediately after eyelid margin incision and at 1 and 6 months postoperatively.

Results

In patients who underwent surgery, the mean palpebral fissure height (PFH) was not significantly different between immediately and 1 month after incision (8.10 ± 0.562 mm vs 8.17 ± 0.577 mm, respectively; P > 0.05). After 6 months, PFH was 8.26 ± 0.605 mm, which was significantly different from that immediately after incision (P < 0.05). After 6 months of follow-up, all patients had a good aesthetic appearance after eyelid reconstruction, with no obvious graft dissolution or rejection, normal eyelid activity, and normal opening, closing, and lifting function. None of the 21 patients experienced tumour recurrence during postoperative follow-up.

Conclusion

The xenogeneic acellular dermal matrix was a successful tarsal plate replacement. This material is readily available, and a second surgical site is avoided. The xenogeneic acellular dermal matrix is considered a promising alternative material for tarsal replacement in future generations.
Synchronous bilateral multifocal basal cell adenomas of the parotid gland—a case report
Authors: Piątkowski Jakub , Garsta Ewa , Śmigielski Grzegorz , Markiet Karolina , Wasąg Bartosz , Ciarka Aleksandra , Mikaszewski Bogusław
Published: July 2022

Background

Bilateral parotid gland tumors account for up to 3% of cases. In this group, the vast majority are Warthin’s tumors. However, bilateral presentations of other parotid gland tumor entities is also possible, an example of which is a basal cell adenoma (BCA). Bilateral BCA is extremely rare, which could cause misdiagnosing it as a Warthin tumor.

Case presentation

The current study reports the unique case of a 48-year-old woman who presented with a 6-month history of slowly growing masses located bilaterally in the parotid region, surgically treated with 5-year follow-up (no recurrence, normal facial nerve function). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed three lesions: two in the superficial and deep lobes of the right parotid gland, and one in the superficial lobe of the left parotid gland. A total parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation was performed on the right side, and superficial parotidectomy on the left side 6 months later. Histopathological examination confirmed that all three tumors were BCAs. Molecular analysis didn’t show any strong, potential of unknown clinical significance in the studied sample.

Conclusions

Multifocal bilateral lesions of the parotid gland are usually Warthin tumors. Detailed preoperative diagnostics including MRI and histopathological examination is essential to avoid misdiagnosing BCA and Warthin tumors. To our best knowledge, no case of synchronous bilateral multifocal basal cell adenomas of the parotid gland has been reported in English literature so far.
A prospective interventional study of recombinant human interleukin-11 mouthwash in chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis
Authors: Wei Hangping , Wei Juan , Dong Xiaofang
Published: July 2022

Background

This prospective interventional study aimed to evaluate and analyse the efficacy of rhIL-11 mouthwash compared to Kangfuxin fluid in treatment and blank control in prevention of oral mucositis (OM) in patients receiving chemotherapy.

Materials and Methods

In total, 50 patients in the treatment group and 62 patients in the prevention group were included. Subsequently, each group was divided into an experimental group and a control group. In the treatment group, the experimental patients received recombinant human interleukin-11 (rhIL-11) mouthwash, whereas the control group received Kangfuxin fluid. In the prevention group, experimental patients still received rhIL-11 mouthwash based on routine oral care, whereas the control group only received routine oral care. Meanwhile, we observed and recorded the efficacy in the treatment group, and the occurrence and grades of OM in the prevention group.

Results

Through statistical analysis, the results showed that on the seventh day of treatment, the experimental group showed more improvement compared to the control group, and it was statistically significant (p = 0.032). The average healing time in the experimental group (3.59 ± 1.927 days) was shorter than that in the control group (4.96 ± 2.421 days; p = 0.031). In the prevention group, we observed the incidence of oral mucositis. No significant differences were found in the occurrence and grades of OM in the experimental and control groups (p = 0.175).

Conclusion

Our preliminary results indicate that rhIL-11 mouthwash may be a superior option to treat OM, especially in severe cases, compared to Kangfuxin fluid. However, there is no advantage in prevention.
A comprehensive search string informed by an operational definition of complementary, alternative, and integrative medicine for systematic bibliographic database search strategies
Authors: Ng Jeremy Y. , Dhawan Tushar , Dogadova Ekaterina , Taghi-Zada Zhala , Vacca Alexandra , Fajardo Renee-Gabrielle , Masood Hooriya A. , Patel Riva , Sunderji Samira , Wieland L. Susan , Moher David
Published: July 2022

Background

Determining which therapies fall under the umbrella of complementary, alternative, and/or integrative medicine (CAIM) is difficult for several reasons. An operational definition is dynamic, and changes depending on both historical time period and geographical location, with many countries integrating or considering their traditional system(s) of medicine as conventional care. We have previously reported the first operational definition of CAIM informed by a systematic search. In the present study, we have developed a comprehensive search string informed by an operational definition of CAIM for systematic bibliographic database search strategies.

Methods

We developed a single search string for the most common bibliographic databases, including those searchable on the OVID platform (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED), the EBSCO platform (e.g., ERIC, CINAHL), Scopus, and Web of Science, using the finalised operational definition of CAIM’s 604 therapies. We searched the Therapeutic Research Center’s “Natural Medicines” database for all 604 therapies, and each item’s scientific name and/or synonym was included as a keyword or phrase in the search string.

Results

This developed search string provides a standardised list of CAIM terms (i.e., keywords and phrases) that may be searched on bibliographic databases including those found on the OVID platform (e.g., MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, AMED), the EBSCO platform (e.g., ERIC, CINAHL), Scopus, and Web of Science.

Conclusion

Researchers can select relevant terms for their CAIM study and insert the keywords/phrases into these databases to receive all accessible data. This search technique can simply be copied and pasted into the search bar of each database to identify research by keywords, which is the most inclusive, or by words in the article title, which is more selective. Given its versatility across multiple commonly used academic platforms/databases, it is expected that this search string will be of great value to those conducting research on CAIM topics involving systematic search strategies.
“Taking care of your pregnancy”: a mixed-methods study of group antenatal care in Kakamega County, Kenya
Authors: Somji Aleefia , Ramsey Kate , Dryer Sean , Makokha Fredrick , Ambasa Constance , Aryeh Brittany , Booth Kathleen , Xueref Serge , Moore Seneca , Mwenesi Ralpher , Rashid Shafia
Published: July 2022

Background

Traditional antenatal care (ANC) models often do not meet women’s needs for information, counseling, and support, resulting in gaps in quality and coverage. Group ANC (GANC) provides an alternative, person-centered approach where pregnant women of similar gestational age meet with the same health provider for facilitated discussion. Few studies show associations between GANC and various outcomes.

Methods

We employed a pre-post quasi-experimental design using mixed methods to assess a GANC model (Lea Mimba Pregnancy Clubs) at six health facilities in Kakamega County, Kenya. Between April 2018 and January 2019, we tracked 1652 women assigned to 162 GANC cohorts. Using an intention-to-treat approach, we conducted baseline (N = 112) and endline surveys (N = 360) with women attending immunization visits to assess outcomes including experience of care, empowerment and self-efficacy, knowledge of healthy practices and danger signs, and practice of healthy behaviors, including ANC retention. At endline, we conducted 29 in-depth interviews (IDIs) and three focus group discussions with women who were currently and previously participating in GANC, and 15 IDIs with stakeholders.

Results

The proportion of survey respondents with knowledge of three or more danger signs during pregnancy more than tripled, from 7.1% at baseline to 26.4% at endline (OR: 4.58; 95% CI: 2.26–10.61). We also found improvements in women’s reports about their experience of care between baseline and endline, particularly in their assessment of knowledge and competence of health workers (OR: 2.52 95% CI: 1.57–4.02), respect shown by ANC providers (OR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.16–2.85), and women’s satisfaction with overall quality of care (OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.03–2.53). We saw an increase from 58.9% at baseline to 71.7% at endline of women who strongly agreed that they shared their feelings and experiences with other women (OR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.1–2.7). The mean number of ANC visits increased by 0.89 visits (95% CI: 0.47–1.42) between baseline (4.21) and endline (5.08). No changes were seen in knowledge of positive behaviors, empowerment, self-efficacy, and several aspects related to women’s experience of care and adoption of healthy behavior constructs. Qualitatively, women and stakeholders noted improved interactions between health providers and women, improved counseling, increased feelings of empowerment to ask questions and speak freely and strengthened social networks and enhanced social cohesion among women.

Conclusions

GANC offers promise for enhancing women’s experience of care by providing improved counseling and social support. Additional research is needed to develop and test measures for empowerment, self-efficacy, and experience of care, and to understand the pathways whereby GANC effects changes in specific outcomes.
Navigating the healthcare system in Nairobi City County: perspectives and experiences in the utilization of oral healthcare by caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Masiga Mary Atieno , Wandibba Simiyu
Published: July 2022

Background

The healthcare system in any republic can cause inequalities in health outcomes if they do not take into account the needs of deprived populations. Children with HIV/AIDS are known to have a high vulnerability to oral diseases; yet, they continue to face limitations in the utilization of oral healthcare. While other determinants of healthcare utilization may co-exist, possible gaps in the oral healthcare system can collectively affect a vulnerable group disproportionately in the utilization of oral healthcare.

Objective

To explore qualitatively, the perspectives, experiences and attributions of a cohort of caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS and their Health Care Providers (HCPs), on the utilization of oral healthcare within the structure of the oral healthcare system in Nairobi City County (NCC).

Design

A cross-sectional explorative mixed methods study design of two hundred and twenty one (221) female caregivers of children with HIV/AIDS and their HCPs using a survey, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-depth Interviews (IDIs). The study setting was the HIV-Care Facilities (HIV-CCFs) at three large hospitals in NCC.

Results

Caregivers mainly utilized independent ‘nearby’ private dental clinics for oral healthcare services, attributing their selection to cheaper user-fees, proximal service location, and recommendations from social networks. Wait time, opening and closing hours, health workers’ attitudes and inferred opportunity costs were perceived as important quality issues in the utilization of oral healthcare.

Conclusion

The oral healthcare system in NCC does not support the utilization of oral healthcare within the context of providing comprehensive healthcare for children with HIV/AIDS. Absence of ‘in-house’ oral health services at the HIV- CCFs is viewed as a defining structural barrier.
Oceanospirillales containing the DMSP lyase DddD are key utilisers of carbon from DMSP in coastal seawater
Authors: Liu Jingli , Xue Chun-Xu , Wang Jinyan , Crombie Andrew T. , Carrión Ornella , Johnston Andrew W. B. , Murrell J. Colin , Liu Ji , Zheng Yanfen , Zhang Xiao-Hua , Todd Jonathan D.
Published: July 2022

Background

Ubiquitous and diverse marine microorganisms utilise the abundant organosulfur molecule dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), the main precursor of the climate-active gas dimethylsulfide (DMS), as a source of carbon, sulfur and/or signalling molecules. However, it is currently difficult to discern which microbes actively catabolise DMSP in the environment, why they do so and the pathways used.

Results

Here, a novel DNA-stable isotope probing (SIP) approach, where only the propionate and not the DMS moiety of DMSP was13C-labelled, was strategically applied to identify key microorganisms actively using DMSP and also likely DMS as a carbon source, and their catabolic enzymes, in North Sea water. Metagenomic analysis of natural seawater suggested thatRhodobacterales(Roseobactergroup) and SAR11 bacteria were the major microorganisms degrading DMSP via demethylation and, to a lesser extent, DddP-driven DMSP lysis pathways. However, neitherRhodobacteralesand SAR11 bacteria nor their DMSP catabolic genes were prominently labelled in DNA-SIP experiments, suggesting they use DMSP as a sulfur source and/or in signalling pathways, and not primarily for carbon requirements. Instead, DNA-SIP identified gammaproteobacterialOceanospirillales, e.g.Amphritea, and their DMSP lyase DddD as the dominant microorganisms/enzymes using DMSP as a carbon source. Supporting this, most gammaproteobacterial (with DddD) but few alphaproteobacterial seawater isolates grew on DMSP as sole carbon source and produced DMS. Furthermore, our DNA-SIP strategy also identifiedMethylophagaand otherPiscirickettsiaceaeas key bacteria likely using the DMS, generated from DMSP lysis, as a carbon source.

Conclusions

This is the first study to use DNA-SIP with13C-labelled DMSP and, in a novel way, it identifies the dominant microbes utilising DMSP and DMS as carbon sources. It highlights that whilst metagenomic analyses of marine environments can predict microorganisms/genes that degrade DMSP and DMS based on their abundance, it cannot disentangle those using these important organosulfur compounds for their carbon requirements. Note, the most abundant DMSP degraders, e.g.Rhodobacteraleswith DmdA, are not always the key microorganisms using DMSP for carbon and releasing DMS, which in this coastal system wereOceanospirillalescontaining DddD.
Do clients train therapists to become eclectic and use the common factors? A qualitative study listening to experienced psychotherapists
Authors: Behan Douglas
Published: July 2022

Background

Psychotherapists must choose from an overwhelming number of theoretical models and empirically supported treatments to guide their work. Meta-analytic studies show there is comparable efficacy among the choices, making the decision about which approach to use difficult. Research indicates there are pantheoretical elements found in all effective models, called the common factors, which can offer psychotherapists a focusing point to maximize their effectiveness regardless of their chosen approach. Most psychotherapists begin practicing from a traditional theoretical orientation, but then their approach evolves over time toward an unintentional eclecticism, derived primarily from their practice experience with clients.

Methods

This exploratory qualitative study conducted in-depth interviews with six experienced clinical social workers about their evolution as psychotherapists and what they believe creates change in psychotherapy. The interviews were conducted using standardized prompts and then coded and analyzed utilizing thematic analysis based on a six-phase framework.

Results

The analysis suggests the psychotherapists had evolved to conducting therapy via an implicit and unique approach based on an unintentional heavy use of common factors. Five prominent themes emerged as central components of change in psychotherapy: the therapeutic relationship as a primary change agent, the importance of the therapist genuineness, the need to acknowledge and act upon a poor therapist—client match, the client bearing the primary responsibility for change, and the therapists’ development of unintended eclecticism in response to client interactions.

Conclusions

In practice, most psychotherapists start practicing from a traditional theoretical orientation only to find their approach evolves over time toward an informal eclecticism featuring common factors. This common factors-based eclecticism emerges primarily from practice experience with clients. These findings suggest an avenue for further inquiry—if psychotherapists are going to gradually evolve in an unplanned eclectic direction guided by their client interactions, are they also concurrently and inherently drawn to the common factors? If the answer proves to be yes, what are the implications for early training? Should the gradual emphasis toward common factors be supplanted with a more intentional and efficient focus on them in the training of students and early career clinicians?
Swedish managers’ experience of yearly staff development dialogues, aiming for employee development, performance, and well-being
Authors: Bringsén Åsa , Lindström Petra Nilsson
Published: July 2022

Background

Societal development and a competitive corporate climate have resulted in increased emphasis on performance management (PM) but also sustainability and health challenges in working life. Opportunities for employee well-being, development and performance are thus highly relevant for organisations and society. PM includes a manager-employee dialogue process and is identified as a complex challenge when combined with employee development and well-being. Managers have a key role in PM, and research in collaboration with practitioners in specific contexts is needed. An exploratory study, focusing on managers’ experience of dialogues between managers and employees in practice, was therefore conducted in collaboration with an inter-municipal corporation company in southern Sweden.

Methods

A qualitative study with an inductive design, supported by semi-structured focus group interviews, was chosen based on the exploratory character of the study. Thirty-five managers were approached in the company and 15, of varying age and managerial experience, agreed to participate. Staff Development Dialogues (SDD) were used in the company PM model to facilitate employee development, performance, and well-being. Data was analysed using conventional qualitative content analysis to obtain new insights without using pre-set classifications.

Results

The analysis resulted in three categories of SDD experiences: SDD in a business context; Managers in relation to SDD; and Employees in relation to SDD. The findings revealed varying SDD experiences as well as approaches, and analytical themes were considered in relation to the organisational context and the specific SDD content and process. The study showed the importance of SDD adaptation and a well-being perspective in the dialogues was related to relational aspects and the manager-employee approach to SDDs.

Discussion

The findings confirm the complexity and challenges of PM including development and well-being. Adaptation to specific departments as well as employees is important, and using the same PM strategy throughout an organisation can be questioned. The identified link between a relational approach and a well-being perspective indicates a missed opportunity for systematic workplace health promotion. Strengthening the well-being perspective can, thus, improve the quality of an SDD model, which in turn can facilitate the creation of sustainable workplaces and better fulfilment of employers’ health-related obligations for systematic work environment management.
Mentoring in STEM higher education: a synthesis of the literature to (re)present the excluded women of color
Authors: Nkrumah Tara , Scott Kimberly A.
Published: July 2022

Mentoring initiatives for undergraduate and graduate women of color (WOC) have provided peer-to-peer relationships and counterspaces to disrupt the inequitable treatment of students in STEM higher education (HE). This literature synthesis explores intersectionality in STEM HE mentoring through pursuing the following research questions: (1) What impact do the social contexts of WOC have on their mentoring experiences in STEM HE? (2) What role does intersectionality play in the structural organization of WOC mentoring models in STEM HE? (3) How has intersectionality shaped the life experiences of WOC mentors and mentees? and (4) How can mentoring models utilize intersectionality to incorporate the experiences of WOC in STEM HE? Thematic findings from literature related to STEM HE mentoring suggest a reinforcement of deficit mentoring models (Fix the URM), a symbolic application of intersectionality (branding gender–race), and a lack of paradigmatic shifts (catch-all). Our specific recommendations presented in this article challenge the epistemic oppression and epistemic violence that current STEM HE mentoring models operationalize.
Industrial hemp seed: from the field to value-added food ingredients
Authors: Burton Rachel A. , Andres Mike , Cole Martin , Cowley James M. , Augustin Mary Ann
Published: July 2022

Industrial hemp, with low levels of the intoxicating cannabinoid tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is grown for fibre and seeds. The industrial hemp industry is poised for expansion. The legalisation of industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity and the inclusion of hemp seed in foods is helping to drive the expansion of the hemp food ingredients industry. This paper discusses the opportunity to build an industrial hemp industry, with a focus on the prospects of hemp seed and its components in food applications. The market opportunities for industrial hemp products are examined. Various aspects of the science that underpins the development of an industrial hemp industry through the food supply chain are presented. This includes a discussion on the agronomy, on-farm and post-harvest considerations and the various types of food ingredients that can be made from hemp seed. The characteristics of hemp seed meal, hemp seed protein and hemp seed oil are reviewed. Different processes for production of value-added ingredients from hemp seed, hemp seed oil and hemp seed protein, are examined. The applicability of hemp seed ingredients in food applications is reviewed. The design of hemp seed ingredients that are fit-for-purpose for target food applications, through the selection of varieties and processing methods for production of various hemp seed ingredients, needs to consider market-led opportunities. This will require an integrated through chain approach, combined with the development of on-farm and post-farm strategies, to ensure that the hemp seed ingredients and foods containing hemp seed are acceptable to the consumer.
Cysticercosis of cheek as a rare presentation: case report and review of literature
Authors: Gautam Shailendra , Patnaik Monica , Singh Hitendra Prakash , Bhalla Shalini
Published: July 2022

Background

Cysticercosis is caused by parasitic infestation of larval stage of pork tapeworm (Taenia solium). It is a result of accidental ingestion of contaminated water and food from eggs of tape worm due to poor sanitation. Pigs serve as intermediate host. The most common sites of cysticercosis are the muscles, heart, and liver but sites such as the tongue, buccal mucosa, cheek, or floor of mouth are rare.

Case presentation

A 10-year-old male patient presented to outpatient clinic of ENT department with gradually progressive swelling of right cheek. Patient has been managed with surgical excision of the cyst.

Conclusion

Cysticercosis can be a differential diagnosis for painless swelling at cheek.
Lift and Shift: The Effect of Fundraising Interventions in Charity Space and Time
Authors: Scharf Kimberley , Smith Sarah , Ottoni-Wilhelm Mark
Published: July 2022

Fundraising interventions may lift donations and/or shift their composition and timing. Using data rich in both the charity space and time dimensions, we find that major fundraising appeals lift donations to the appeal charity and that this increase is not offset by lower donations later in time. Strikingly, major appeals also forward-shift donations to other (nonappeal) charities that are offset by lower donations later. To understand these response patterns, we introduce a two-period, two-charity “ lift-shift” model. The model indicates that the observed response patterns are possible only if warm glow is substitutable, both intertemporally and between charities. (JEL D64, H12, H41, L31, Q54)
Proximate analysis of the high phytochemical activity of encapsulated Mandai cempedak (Artocarpus champeden) vinegar prepared with maltodextrin and chitosan as wall materials
Authors: Rahmadi Anton , Nurjannah Siti , Andriyani Yulian , Banin Maghfirotin Marta , Rohmah Miftakhur , Amaliah Nur , Sari Kartika , Emmawati Aswita
Published: July 2022

Background: Mandai cempedak vinegar (MCV) is a fermented vinegar produced from the inner skin of cempedak (Artocarpus champeden), which contains antioxidants classified as flavonoids, phenols, and tannins. These bioactive compounds are sensitive to heat and prone to oxidative damage. Therefore, an encapsulation process is proposed to protect the bioactive compounds. This study aimed to design a potential scaling-up formulation of spray-dried encapsulated MCV based on Total Soluble Solid (TSS) with the addition of maltodextrin and chitosan, followed by determining the nutrition and phytochemical values of the formulation.

Methods: The formulation employed maltodextrin to achieve TSS of 15, 20, and 25 ºBrix as the primary wall material treatment factor. The second factor was chitosan as auxiliary wall material at 1, 2, and 3% (w/w of maltodextrin). Products were spray-dried at 100 ºC inlet temperature and 80 ºC outlet temperature. Analyses of nutrition, flavonoid, phenol, and tannin were conducted in triplicate for each encapsulated product. 

Results: The 15 ºBrix of TSS from maltodextrin with 1% chitosan emerged as the best-encapsulating material, giving 7.54% moisture, 0.75% ash, 0.42% protein, 0.35% fat, and 90.94% carbohydrate content, resulting in a phytochemical activity equivalent to 9.13 mg Catechin Equivalent kg-1, 69.61 mg Gallic Acid Equivalent kg-1, and 25.04 mg Tannic Acid Equivalent kg-1. Compared to maltodextrin, the chitosan generally contributed less to the proximate, flavonoid, phenol, and tannin content of the encapsulated MCV.

Conclusions: The best formulation contained maltodextrin at 15 ºBrix of TSS and 1% chitosan. Maintaining optimum TSS was a key to producing consistent encapsulated MCV with high phytochemical activity.
Nebulizer therapy in the practice of a local pediatrician
Authors: Tsarkova S. A. , Bazhenova U. L. , Sheveleva M. I.
Published: July 2022

Данное электронное учебное пособие предназначено для студентов-педиатрического факультета, ординаторов. врачей педиатров, слушателей курсов ДПО и НМО, а также может быть использовано в процессе освоения образовательных программ ординатуры и аспирантуры по специальности «Педиатрия». ЭОР состоит из 3-х модулей, содержащих презентационные и видео материалы, которые сопровождаются тестовыми заданиями, направленными на усвоение и закрепление знаний по изученной теме. В конце каждого модуля содержатся тестовые задания. В данном пособии рассматриваются такие темы, как общие вопросы ингаляционной терапии (ее преимущества и недостатки, основные показатели работы ингаляционных устройств), заболевания, при которых применяется небулайзерная терапия, препараты, рекомендованные для небулизации и алгоритмы применения небулизированных лекарственных средств, правила и техника проведения ингаляций через небулайзер. Использование данного пособия способствует закреплению профессиональных компетенций участкового педиатра в области диагностики и лечения основных заболеваний органов дыхания у детей.
Basics of medical Latin terminology for foreign sudents of General Medicine
Authors: Arhipova I. S. , Olechnovich O. G. , Olshvang O. U. , Tikhomirova A. V. , Shelegin P. E.
Published: July 2022

Electronic educational resource ""Basics of medical Latin terminology for foreign sudents of General Medicine"" is created for successful mastering by students of the basic educational program of higher professional education 31.05.01 ""General Medicine"". The discipline is designed for 144 hours, including 72 hours of classroom studies and 72 hours of independent work. Each module contains exercises for independent work, exercises for self-check, samples of final control works and reference information of general cultural nature. The aim of the discipline is to form professional competencies in the field of Latin language and medical terminology, to develop and consolidate communicative skills, to expand general cultural erudition, as well as to introduce information technologies to ensure the interactivity of the educational process. The electronic form of the course provides not only the relevance and timely updating of training material, but also feedback from students (zone of comments and questions), which intensifies the development of the basic educational program. Electronic educational resource ""Basics of medical Latin terminology for foreign sudents of General Medicine"" is created according to the Federal State Educational Standard of Higher Professional Education in the field of training 31.05.01 ""General Medicine"", as well as the Study Plan and the basic educational program for first-year medical students of the faculty ""General Medicine"". This electronic resource is a textbook on Latin language, which consists of 4 modules: phonetic, anatomical, clinical and pharmaceutical. Each module contains exercises for independent work, exercises for self-testing, samples of final tests and general cultural background information.
Entomofauna noturna do Igarapé Canela Fina, capturada com armadilha luminosa em Cruzeiro do Sul, AC
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Souza , Oliveira Giordano Bruno da Silva , Godoy Karlla Barbosa
Published: July 2022

Estudos faunísticos têm sido realizados para prospectar a entomofauna de um determinado ecossistema e contribuir para relatórios de impacto ambiental. O objetivo desse estudo foi realizar um levantamento da entomofauna noturna ocorrente em dois ambientes (Mata Ciliar e remanescente florestal) componentes do Igarapé Canela Fina, município de Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre. As ordens Hemiptera, Hymenoptera e Blattodea (subordem Isoptera) foram consideradas dominantes nos dois ambientes, enquanto Diptera e Mantodea foram consideradas acidentais. De acordo com os índices de Shannon-Wiener e Simpson as áreas foram consideradas pouco diversas. Novos estudos mais duradouros são recomendados a fim de verificar o impacto antrópico, bem como a biodiversidade de insetos presentes nesse igarapé.
Effect of elimination diets on the functioning of children with autism in the opinion of parents
Authors: Jaruga-Sękowska Sylwia , Mazur Monika , Staśkiewicz Wiktoria , Woźniak-Holecka Joanna , Wanat-Kańtoch Gabriela
Published: July 2022

Introduction.  The autism spectrum disorder is more and more common in the world and is diagnosed in the early years of childhood. This disorder is impossible to cure, so parents are increasingly looking for the best therapies for their children. The most popular are the use of elimination diets, including gluten-free and casein-free diet. Material and methods. The study was conducted on a group of 95 people: 68 women and 27 men. The Cole index was used to assess the nutritional status of children with ASD. Taking into account the interpretation, it can be concluded that almost half of children with ASD have a normal nutritional status.There are 65 children with ASD who  have complaints of impaired gastrointestinal function, the most common symptoms are gas, constipation, bloating and abdominal pain. Results.  The most common and popular of the alternative treatment support methods for a child with ASD used by parents are elimination diets. Among the most commonly used can be a diet that is either casein-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, or a diet with elimination of specific ingredients. In our study, we found that there is a significant relationship between the use of an appropriate nutritional strategy and improved digestive functioning in a child with ASD. Conclusions. Based on the results, it was concluded that there is a significant correlation between the use of a gluten-free diet and / or a non-dairy diet, and the improvement in the functioning of the digestive system, quality of life and behavior of children with autism. According to the subjective opinion of parents, a gluten-free and dairy-free diet improves the quality of life and behavior of a child with ASD.
Identifying cardiac activity using focused ultrasound in non-shockable arrests
Authors: Sanders Emily , Dippenaar Enrico
Published: July 2022

Background:

Each year, around 60 000 people in the UK experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The introduction of additional diagnostic tools such as focused cardiac ultrasound (FoCUS) aids assessment and management of patients at the point of care. The Resuscitation Council guidance recommends its use where possible.

Method:

A systematic literature search was undertaken of two databases, PubMed and Science Direct primarily to identify literature relevant to the use of ultrasound in medical cardiac arrests where the prevailing cardiac rhythm was non-shockable.

Results:

A total of 10 papers were included in the review out of 242 identified from the search. Across all papers, three themes were identified: prognostication, identification of reversible causes and true pulseless electrical activity (PEA) versus pseudo PEA.

Conclusion:

The evidence shows there is an association between cardiac activity identified with FoCUS and an increase in return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) rates. The effect of FoCUS for improving survival is not statistically significant; however, there is a higher likelihood of survival because of its ability to aid decision making. Patients with cardiac motion identified by FoCUS had higher ROSC rates than those without. Although the data suggest that the presence of cardiac activity is highly associated with ROSC, there is little literature surrounding long-term outcomes of patients, so the ability of FoCUS to determine survival cannot be confirmed.
Sequels of the COVID-19 pandemic on prehospital care professionals
Authors: Alinier Guillaume
Published: July 2022

As the COVID-19 pandemic and associated measures continue to have an impact on global populations, Guillaume Alinier explores the effects on the wellbeing of frontline prehospital care professionals and what can be done to support them to continue providing high-calibre care and growing as a profession
Postoperative serum C-reactive protein dynamics after pharyngolaryngectomy with jejunal free-flap reconstruction
Authors: Schmidt F , Ward M , Repanos C
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Pharyngolaryngectomy with jejunal free-flap (JFF) reconstruction can be offered for locally advanced hypopharyngeal cancer. However, the procedure carries significant morbidity. Postoperative serial serum C-reactive protein (CRP) has been shown to be a marker predicting postoperative complications, and the aim of this study was to describe the dynamics and value of CRP in this patient group.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of pharyngolaryngectomies with JFF reconstruction was performed in our institution. Daily postoperative CRP values were analysed within the first 14 days, as were complications.

Results

Twenty-one cases were included. Total morbidity was 57.1% including 14.3% (temporary) anastomotic leaks and 14.3% flap failures. Patients in the normal group showed peak CRP levels around postoperative day 2 (2.2). Increased CRP levels on or after day 4 were associated with complications (p<0.01) with a sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 77.8%. In keeping with CRP kinetics from other surgical studies, peak CRP values on day 2 or 3 are expected, followed by a decline. Peaks in CRP on day 4 or later raise the suspicion of complications. CRP is not specific for any one complication but rather can help guide early appropriate clinical assessment and management.

Conclusions

The natural postoperative CRP response peaks around postoperative day 2 (2.2) and declines thereafter. Rising CRP levels after postoperative day 3 are suspicious of surgical complications (p<0.01) with positive and negative predictive values of 83.3% and 77.8%, respectively. Therefore, serial postoperative CRP can be used as an adjunct to monitor outcomes in this group.
Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis of the retropharynx: first reported case
Authors: Kendall W , Chengot P , Munir T , Moor JW
Published: July 2022

Langerhans’ cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare condition characterised by histiocyte proliferation leading to destructive granulomatous lesions. It may occur anywhere in the body but extraosseous manifestations affecting the head and neck are particularly uncommon. Here, we present the first reported case of a mass arising in the retropharyngeal space caused by LCH. The patient was a 33-year-old man with various symptoms which are presented. Although rare, LCH can affect a variety of tissues in the head and neck. Clinicians need to be cognisant of its inclusion in the differential diagnoses for similar cases in their practice, in particular because of potential difficulties in diagnosis.
Numerical demonstration of a dispersion engineered metallic metasurface assisted mm-wave wireless sensor
Authors: Vinnakota Sarath Sankar , Kumari Runa , Majumder Basudev , Abbasi Qammer H.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, a metasurface-assisted multiport wireless power sensor is proposed and numerically verified for wireless power transfer (WPT) applications at mm-wave frequency band. A fully metallic 2D Luneburg lens constructed using glide symmetric unit cells, with a maximum gain of 18 dBi, acts as the radiating structure to receive the input RF power with a wide angular coverage range of ±70°. A set of optimized class F rectifiers are integrated with this multiport lens using waveguide to microstrip transitions to obtain high power conversion efficiency over a wide angular space. These rectifying circuits are further connected for DC power combining, and a maximum power conversion efficiency of 72% is obtained at an input power level of 15.8 dBm.
Analysis of multi-strain infection of vaccinated and recovered population through epidemic model: Application to COVID-19
Authors: Otunuga Olusegun Michael
Published: July 2022

In this work, an innovative multi-strain SV EAIR epidemic model is developed for the study of the spread of a multi-strain infectious disease in a population infected by mutations of the disease. The population is assumed to be completely susceptible to n different variants of the disease, and those who are vaccinated and recovered from a specific strain k (k ≤ n) are immune to previous and present strains j = 1, 2, ⋯, k, but can still be infected by newer emerging strains j = k + 1, k + 2, ⋯, n. The model is designed to simulate the emergence and dissemination of viral strains. All the equilibrium points of the system are calculated and the conditions for existence and global stability of these points are investigated and used to answer the question as to whether it is possible for the population to have an endemic with more than one strain. An interesting result that shows that a strain with a reproduction number greater than one can still die out on the long run if a newer emerging strain has a greater reproduction number is verified numerically. The effect of vaccines on the population is also analyzed and a bound for the herd immunity threshold is calculated. The validity of the work done is verified through numerical simulations by applying the proposed model and strategy to analyze the multi-strains of the COVID-19 virus, in particular, the Delta and the Omicron variants, in the United State.
The rubber hand illusion is accompanied by a distributed reduction of alpha and beta power in the EEG
Authors: Sciortino Placido , Kayser Christoph
Published: July 2022

Previous studies have reported correlates of bodily self-illusions such as the rubber hand in signatures of rhythmic brain activity. However, individual studies focused on specific variations of the rubber hand paradigm, used different experimental setups to induce this, or used different control conditions to isolate the neurophysiological signatures related to the illusory state, leaving the specificity of the reported illusion-signatures unclear. We here quantified correlates of the rubber hand illusion in EEG-derived oscillatory brain activity and asked two questions: which of the observed correlates are robust to the precise nature of the control conditions used as contrast for the illusory state, and whether such correlates emerge directly around the subjective illusion onset. To address these questions, we relied on two experimental configurations to induce the illusion, on different non-illusion conditions to isolate neurophysiological signatures of the illusory state, and we implemented an analysis directly focusing on the immediate moment of the illusion onset. Our results reveal a widespread suppression of alpha and beta-band activity associated with the illusory state in general, whereby the reduction of beta power prevailed around the immediate illusion onset. These results confirm previous reports of a suppression of alpha and beta rhythms during body illusions, but also highlight the difficulties to directly pinpoint the precise neurophysiological correlates of the illusory state.
A new test to detect impairments of sequential visuospatial memory due to lesions of the temporal lobe
Authors: Eggert Thomas , Nguyen Phuong Van , Ernst Katharina , Loosli Sandra V. , Straube Andreas
Published: July 2022

This study investigates visuospatial memory in patients with unilateral lesions of the temporal lobe and the hippocampus resulting from surgery to treat drug-resistant epilepsy. To detect impairments of visuospatial memory in these individuals, a memory test should be specific to episodic memory, the type of memory in which the hippocampus is crucially involved. However, most known visuospatial memory tests do not focus on episodic memory. We hypothesized that a new sequential visuospatial memory test, which has been previously developed and applied only in healthy subjects, might be suitable to fill this gap. The test requires the subject to reproduce a memorized sequence of target locations in ordered recall by typing on a blank graphics tablet. The length of the memorized sequence extended successively after repeated presentation of a sequence of 20 target positions. The test was done twice on day one and again after one week. Visual working memory was tested with the Corsi block-tapping task. The performance in the new test was also related to the performance of the patients in the standard test battery of the neuropsychological examination in the clinical context. Thirteen patients and 14 controls participated. Patients showed reduced learning speed in the new sequential visuospatial memory task. Right-sided lesions induced stronger impairments than left-sided lesions. After one week, retention was reduced in the patients with left-sided lesions. The performance of the patients in commonly used tests of the neuropsychological standard battery did not differ compared to healthy subjects, whereas the new test allowed discrimination between patients and controls at a high correct-decision rate of 0.89. The Corsi block-span of the patients was slightly shorter than that of the controls. The results suggest that the new test provides a specific investigation of episodic visuospatial memory. Hemispheric asymmetries were consistent with the general hypothesis of right hemispheric dominance in visuospatial processing.
Promising FDA-approved drugs with efflux pump inhibitory activities against clinical isolates of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Abdel-Karim Safaa Abdel-Aal Mohamed , El-Ganiny Amira Mohamed Ali , El-Sayed Mona Abdelmonem , Abbas Hisham Abdelmonem Abdelhamid
Published: July 2022

Background and objectives

Staphylococcus aureus is an opportunistic pathogen that causes wide range of nosocomial and community-acquired infections which have spread worldwide leading to an urgent need for developing effective anti-staphylococcal agents. Efflux is an important resistance mechanism that bacteria used to fight the antimicrobial action. This study aimed to investigate the efflux mechanism in S. aureus and assess diclofenac, domperidone, glyceryl trinitrate and metformin as potential efflux pump inhibitors that can be used in combination with antibiotics for treating topical infections caused by S. aureus.

Materials and methods

Efflux was detected qualitatively by the ethidium bromide Cart-Wheel method followed by investigating the presence of efflux genes by polymerase chain reaction. Twenty-six isolates were selected for further investigation of efflux by Cart-Wheel method in absence and presence of tested compounds followed by quantitative efflux assay. Furthermore, antibiotics minimum inhibitory concentrations in absence and presence of tested compounds were determined. The effects of tested drugs on expression levels of efflux genes norA, fexA and tetK were determined by quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Efflux was found in 65.3% of isolates, the prevalence of norA, tetK, fexA and msrA genes were 91.7%, 77.8%, 27.8% and 6.9%. Efflux assay revealed that tested drugs had potential efflux inhibitory activities, reduced the antibiotic’s MICs and significantly decreased the relative expression of efflux genes.

Conclusion

Diclofenac sodium, domperidone and glyceryl trinitrate showed higher efflux inhibitory activities than verapamil and metformin. To our knowledge, this is the first report that shows that diclofenac sodium, glyceryl trinitrate and domperidone have efflux pump inhibitory activities against S. aureus.