bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel multi-objective affinity approach allows to identify pH-specific μ-opioid receptor agonists
Authors: Secker Christopher , Fackeldey Konstantin , Weber Marcus , Ray Sourav , Gorgulla Christoph , Schütte Christof
Published: September 2023

Opioids are essential pharmaceuticals due to their analgesic properties, however, lethal side effects, addiction, and opioid tolerance are extremely challenging. The development of novel molecules targeting the $$\mu$$
μ
-opioid receptor (MOR) in inflamed, but not in healthy tissue, could significantly reduce these unwanted effects. Finding such novel molecules can be achieved by maximizing the binding affinity to the MOR at acidic pH while minimizing it at neutral pH, thus combining two conflicting objectives. Here, this multi-objective optimal affinity approach is presented, together with a virtual drug discovery pipeline for its practical implementation. When applied to finding pH-specific drug candidates, it combines protonation state-dependent structure and ligand preparation with high-throughput virtual screening. We employ this pipeline to characterize a set of MOR agonists identifying a morphine-like opioid derivative with higher predicted binding affinities to the MOR at low pH compared to neutral pH. Our results also confirm existing experimental evidence that NFEPP, a previously described fentanyl derivative with reduced side effects, and recently reported $$\beta$$
β
-fluorofentanyls and -morphines show an increased specificity for the MOR at acidic pH when compared to fentanyl and morphine. We further applied our approach to screen a >50K ligand library identifying novel molecules with pH-specific predicted binding affinities to the MOR. The presented differential docking pipeline can be applied to perform multi-objective affinity optimization to identify safer and more specific drug candidates at large scale.
Staphylococcus aureus surgical site infection rates in 5 European countries
Authors: Mellinghoff Sibylle C. , Bruns Caroline , Albertsmeier Markus , Ankert Juliane , Bernard Louis , Budin Sofia , Bataille Camille , Classen Annika Y. , Cornely Florian B. , Couvé-Deacon Elodie , Fernandez Ferrer Maria , Fortún Jesús , Galar Alicia , Grill Eva , Guimard Thomas , Hampl Jürgen A. , Wingen-Heimann Sebastian , Horcajada Juan P. , Köhler Felix , Koll Carolin , Mollar Joan , Muñoz Patricia , Pletz Mathias W. , Rutz Jule , Salmanton-García Jon , Seifert Harald , Serracino-Inglott Ferdinand , Soriano Alex , Stemler Jannik , Vehreschild Janne J. , Vilz Tim O. , Naendrup Jan-Hendrik , Cornely Oliver A. , Liss Blasius J.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine the overall and procedure-specific incidence of surgical site infections (SSI) caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) as well as risk factors for such across all surgical disciplines in Europe.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort of patients with surgical procedures performed at 14 European centres in 2016, with a nested case–control analysis. S. aureus SSI were identified by a semi-automated crossmatching bacteriological and electronic health record data. Within each surgical procedure, cases and controls were matched using optimal propensity score matching.

Results

A total of 764 of 178 902 patients had S. aureus SSI (0.4%), with 86.0% of these caused by methicillin susceptible and 14% by resistant pathogens. Mean S. aureus SSI incidence was similar for all surgical specialties, while varying by procedure.

Conclusions

This large procedure-independent study of S. aureus SSI proves a low overall infection rate of 0.4% in this cohort. It provides proof of principle for a semi-automated approach to utilize big data in epidemiological studies of healthcare-associated infections.

Trials registration The study was registered at clinicaltrials.gov under NCT03353532 (11/2017).
Vegetable and fruit consumption during the COVID-19 lockdown: eating habits in Ecuador
Authors: Andrade-Cuvi Maria Jose , Montalvo Cesar , Moreno-Guerrero Carlota
Published: September 2023

This study identifies changes in fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption habits during the COVID-19 pandemic in Quito-Ecuador and observe relationships regarding household income and the relevance of FV nutritional value. The study used an online survey among urban residents (n = 1093) in Quito-Ecuador, regarding FV consumption patterns during the lockdown along with household socioeconomic status. A multiple response logistic model was used to analyse changes in FV eating habits across four income categories. Income had a statistically significant effect over the healthy food consumption of FV for the low- and high-income category. Families did not change eating habits nor decide to maintain a diet based on differences of income. Further, approximately two thirds of the families increased FV consumption during the lockdown. Eating habits changed during the lockdown of urban households in Ecuador. Income explained changes in FV consumption for low- and high-income households but did not for the middle-income group. Households that purchased more FV had a higher perception of their own healthy eating habits. The consumption of FV with high content of vitamin C increased, however, families did not purchase products with the highest vitamin-C content.
Adaption of the meat attachment scale (MEAS) to Germany: interplay with food neophobia, preference for organic foods, social trust and trust in food technology innovations
Authors: Kühn David , Profeta Adriano , Krikser Thomas , Heinz Volker
Published: September 2023

Meat-based diets are still the norm, and vegans and vegetarians represent only a small minority of the population. A transition, respectively, behavioural change towards a diet with less meat can only occur by adopting a positive attitude towards dietary changes based on reasons and motivations. The main aim of this study is to apply the meat attachment scale (MEAS) in Germany in order to analyse if this construct is a barrier towards a diet with less meat in this country. For this purpose, the impact of meat attachment on the trust in different protein alternatives (plant-based, insects, cultured meat) and related food processing technologies is analysed. The findings reveal that a high level of meat attachment goes along with lower trust in plant-based proteins. Similar holds for cultured meat and insect proteins. Thus it appears that, at least for the moment, cultured meat or proteins from insects are not a logical substitute for the heavily meat attached consumer. Furthermore, in the analysis, we considered if meat attachment as measured by the MEAS is correlated with other scales/preferences such as food neophobia, social trust, and attitude towards respective preference for organic products. Literature shows that all mentioned constructs impact the acceptance, preference or trust in more sustainable food product innovation, respectively, more sustainable food processing techniques. The outcome of the correlation analysis demonstrated that in particular food neophobia and meat attachment are not correlated with each other. That is, the MEAS represents a predictor for trust in food (processing) technologies as e.g. plant-based proteins or cultured meat that is independent of the neophobia construct.
Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in patients with medullary thyroid carcinoma is characterized by specific fragmentation and methylation changes with diagnostic value
Authors: Citarella Anna , Besharat Zein Mersini , Trocchianesi Sofia , Autilio Tanja Milena , Verrienti Antonella , Catanzaro Giuseppina , Splendiani Elena , Spinello Zaira , Cantara Silvia , Zavattari Patrizia , Loi Eleonora , Romei Cristina , Ciampi Raffaele , Pezzullo Luciano , Castagna Maria Grazia , Angeloni Antonio , Elisei Rosella , Durante Cosimo , Po Agnese , Ferretti Elisabetta
Published: September 2023

Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumour whose diagnosis includes evaluating calcitonin serum levels, which can present fluctuations unrelated to MTC. Here, we investigated circulating DNA fragmentation and methylation changes as potential biomarkers using ddPCR on cell-free DNA (cfDNA) isolated from the plasma of MTC patients. For cfDNA fragmentation analysis, we investigated the fragment size distribution of a gene family and calculated short fragment fraction (SFF). Methylation analyses evaluated the methylation levels of CG_16698623, a CG dinucleotide in the MGMT gene that we found hypermethylated in MTC tissues by analyzing public databases. The SFF ratio and methylation of CG_16698623 were significantly increased in plasma from MTC patients at diagnosis, and patients with clinical remission or stable disease at follow-up showed no significant SFF difference compared with healthy subjects. Our data support the diagnostic value of cfDNA traits that could enable better management of MTC patients.
New insights into the use of Neolithic pottery in Guangxi of South China: organic residue analysis of experimental and archaeological pottery
Authors: Liu Xiaodi , Ren Meng , Fu Yongxu , Hu Yaowu , Wang Shuzhi , Yang Yimin
Published: September 2023

As one of the world’s earliest pottery origins in Eurasia, the role of pottery during Neolithic period in South China remains unclear. Here, we present a new understanding on the utilization pattern of early pottery from the Neolithic sites of Dayan, Dingsishan and Zengpiyan in Guangxi province, China. Compound-specific stable isotope analysis of pottery and bone lipids show that a persistent use of terrestrial C3 and C4 resources throughout the pottery utilization history highlight the culinary practice and terrestrial exploitation during Neolithic period. Contrary to the traditional view that the primary use of these pottery was closely linked with aquatic resource processing, no aquatic biomarkers were found in the potsherds, yet these compounds were detected in the cooking experiments in this study, indicating that aquatic resources in these sites were probably processed or consumed in other ways. Moreover, a remarkable diachronic change from extensive use of C3 and C4 resources to the intensive use of certain kinds of C3 resources in different Neolithic stages, further indicating that an ecological tradition rooted in the subtropical and tropical environments as well as the Neolithic social evolution exerted great influence upon the initial production and the subsequent utilization of early pottery in prehistoric South China.
Investigating the educational experiences of students with disabilities during the COVID-19 school disruption: an international perspective
Authors: Shelton Alexandra , Gezer Tuba
Published: September 2023

Students with disabilities generally experience educational inequities around the world. The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic likely exacerbated these inequities in access, resources, and support as schools shut down to mitigate the spread of the disease. Although some research has explored disparities between students with and without disabilities during the pandemic, limited research has explored this issue from the perspective of students across multiple countries. Therefore, we conducted a secondary analysis of the UNESCO Responses to Educational Disruption Survey student questionnaire administered to eighth graders in five countries to investigate changes in the educational experiences of students with disabilities during COVID-19 school disruptions and differences between these experiences and the experiences of students without disabilities during these disruptions. Specifically, we aimed to understand how students with disabilities’ perceptions of their educational experiences changed during disruptions and varied from those of students without disabilities. Contrary to previous research, our findings revealed that students with disabilities generally reported positive experiences to a greater extent than students without disabilities. We discuss the implications of these findings and areas for future research beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of the diaphragm in critically ill patients to predict invasive mechanical ventilation
Authors: Suttapanit Karn , Wongkrasunt Supawit , Savatmongkorngul Sorravit , Supatanakij Praphaphorn
Published: September 2023

Background

Diaphragm dysfunction is common in critically ill patients and associated with poorer outcomes. The function of the diaphragm can be evaluated at the bedside by measuring diaphragmatic excursion using ultrasonography. In this study, we investigated the ability of right-sided diaphragmatic excursion (RDE) to predict the need for invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV).

Methods

Critically ill patients aged 18 years and older who presented to our emergency department between May 20, 2021 and May 19, 2022 and underwent measurement of RDE within 10 min of arrival were enrolled in this prospective study. The ability of RDE to predict the need for IMV was assessed by multivariable logistic regression and analysis of the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

A total of 314 patients were enrolled in the study; 113 (35.9%) of these patients required IMV. An increase of RDE value per each 0.1 cm was identified to be an independent predictor of IMV (adjusted odds ratio 0.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.04–0.17, p < 0.001; AUROC 0.850, 95% CI 0.807–0.894). The RDE cutoff value was 1.2 cm (sensitivity 82.3%, 95% CI 74.0–88.8; specificity 78.1%, 95% CI 71.7–83.6). Time on a ventilator was significantly longer when the RDE was ≤ 1.2 cm (13 days [interquartile range 5, 27] versus 5 days [interquartile range 3, 8], p = 0.006).

Conclusions

In this study, RDE had a good ability to predict the need for IMV in critically ill patients. The optimal RDE cutoff value was 1.2 cm. Its benefit in patient management requires further investigation.
Effect of fatty acids on intracellular pneumocandin B0 storage in the fermentation of Glarea lozoyensis
Authors: Zhang Weiting , Yi Ping , Zhou Ying , Yuan Kai , Ji Xiaojun , Song Ping
Published: September 2023

The natural product pneumocandin B0 is the precursor of the antifungal drug caspofungin. To explore the relationship between pneumocandin B0 and oil. We found that the addition of 1 g/L of oil to the fermentation medium is more conducive to the production of pneumocandin B0. The metabolic reaction mechanism was explored using different fatty acids and the results showed that stearic acid and acetic acid increased the total production of pneumocandin B0 by 22.98% and 9.08%, respectively, as well as increasing the content of intracellular lipid droplets. We also analyzed gene expression and pathway differences between the two different fatty acids using transcriptome analyses. The addition of both acetic acid and stearic acid promoted an active pentose phosphate pathway, providing cells with higher intracellular reducing power. We found that the addition of fatty acids can lead to lipid accumulation, and lipid droplets can sequester lipophilic secondary metabolites such as pneumocandin B0 to reduce cell damage. These results provide novel insights into the relationship between pneumocandin B0 biosynthesis and fatty acids in G. lozoyensis. In addition, this study provides important genetic information for improving the yield of pneumocandin B0 through a strategy of metabolic engineering in the future.

Graphical Abstract
Evaluation of the clinical safety and performance of a narrow diameter (2.9 mm) bone-level implant: a 1-year prospective single-arm multicenter study
Authors: Walter Christian , Sagheb Keyvan , Blatt Sebastian , Klein Marcus Oliver , Herrmann Jan , Kleinheinz Johannes , Al-Nawas Bilal
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Narrow-diameter implants facilitate single‐tooth restoration when interdental or inter-implant spaces and bone volume are inadequate for using standard diameter implants. This study reports the short-term data on the clinical safety and performance of a bone-level-tapered two-piece implant with a 2.9 mm diameter in the clinical practice setting. This study was retrospectively registered on March 1st, 2016 (NCT02699866).

Methods

Implants were placed in partially healed extraction sockets of the central and lateral incisors in the mandible and lateral incisors in the maxilla for single-tooth replacement. The primary outcome was to assess implant survival at 12 months after placement. Secondary outcomes included implant success, pink esthetic score, marginal bone-level changes, and safety.

Results

Twenty four males and 17 females with a mean age of 44.5 (± 18.3 standard deviation) received the implant. Three out of 41 implants were lost yielding a survival rate of 92.7% (95%-CI: 79.0%; 97.6%) at 1 year. One patient reported an ongoing foreign body sensation, pain, and/or dysesthesia at month 12. The average pink esthetic score at 6 months was 11.2 (95%-CI: 10.5; 11.9). The bone level was stable with a mean bone-level change of—0.3 mm (± 0.42 mm standard deviation) at 1 year after implantation. No serious adverse events or adverse device events were reported.

Conclusions

The use of a 2.9 mm diameter bone-level-tapered implant is a safe and reliable treatment option for narrow tooth gaps at the indicated locations. Overall performance and good survival rates support their use in cases, where wider implants are unsuitable.

Graphical abstract
P1NP and β-CTX-1 Responses to a Prolonged, Continuous Running Bout in Young Healthy Adult Males: A Systematic Review with Individual Participant Data Meta-analysis
Authors: Civil Rita , Dolan Eimear , Swinton Paul A. , Santos Lívia , Varley Ian , Atherton Philip J. , Elliott-Sale Kirsty J. , Sale Craig
Published: September 2023

Background

Circulating biomarkers of bone formation and resorption are widely used in exercise metabolism research, but their responses to exercise are not clear. This study aimed to quantify group responses and inter-individual variability of P1NP and β-CTX-1 after prolonged, continuous running (60–120 min at 65–75% V̇O2max) in young healthy adult males using individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis.

Methods

The protocol was designed following PRISMA-IPD guidelines and was pre-registered on the Open Science Framework prior to implementation (https://osf.io/y69nd). Changes in P1NP and β-CTX-1 relative to baseline were measured during, immediately after, and in the hours and days following exercise. Typical hourly and daily variations were estimated from P1NP and β-CTX-1 changes relative to baseline in non-exercise (control) conditions. Group responses and inter-individual variability were quantified with estimates of the mean and standard deviation of the difference, and the proportion of participants exhibiting an increased response. Models were conducted within a Bayesian framework with random intercepts to account for systematic variation across studies.

Results

P1NP levels increased during and immediately after running, when the proportion of response was close to 100% (75% CrI: 99 to 100%). P1NP levels returned to baseline levels within 1 h and over the next 4 days, showing comparable mean and standard deviation of the difference with typical hourly (0.1 ± 7.6 ng·mL−1) and daily (− 0.4 ± 5.7 ng·mL−1) variation values. β-CTX-1 levels decreased during and up to 4 h after running with distributions comparable to typical hourly variation (− 0.13 ± 0.11 ng·mL−1). There was no evidence of changes in β-CTX-1 levels during the 4 days after the running bout, when distributions were also similar between the running data and typical daily variation (− 0.03 ± 0.10 ng·mL−1).

Conclusion

Transient increases in P1NP were likely biological artefacts (e.g., connective tissue leakage) and not reflective of bone formation. Comparable small decreases in β-CTX-1 identified in both control and running data, suggested that these changes were due to the markers’ circadian rhythm and not the running intervention. Hence, prolonged continuous treadmill running did not elicit bone responses, as determined by P1NP and β-CTX-1, in this population.
Cluster Sets to Prescribe Interval Resistance Training: A Potential Method to Optimise Resistance Training Safety, Feasibility and Efficacy in Cardiac Patients
Authors: Way Kimberley L. , Thomas Hannah J. , Parker Lewan , Maiorana Andrew , Keske Michelle A. , Scott David , Reed Jennifer L. , Tieng Jessica , Hackett Daniel , Hawkins Tess , Latella Christopher , Cordina Rachael , Tran Derek L.
Published: September 2023

The integration of resistance training for cardiac patients leads to important health outcomes that are not optimally obtained with aerobic exercise; these include an increase in muscle mass, maintenance of bone mineral density, and improvements in muscular fitness parameters. Despite the proliferation of evidence supporting resistance exercise in recent decades, the implementation of resistance training is underutilised, and prescription is often sub-optimal in cardiac patients. This is frequently associated with safety concerns and inadequate methods of practical exercise prescription. This review discusses the potential application of cluster sets to prescribe interval resistance training in cardiac populations. The addition of planned, regular passive intra-set rest periods (cluster sets) in resistance training (i.e., interval resistance training) may be a practical solution for reducing the magnitude of haemodynamic responses observed with traditional resistance training. This interval resistance training approach may be a more suitable option for cardiac patients. Additionally, many cardiac patients present with impaired exercise tolerance; this model of interval resistance training may be a more suitable option to reduce fatigue, increase patient tolerance and enhance performance to these workloads. Practical strategies to implement interval resistance training for cardiac patients are also discussed. Preliminary evidence suggests that interval resistance training may lead to safer acute haemodynamic responses in cardiac patients. Future research is needed to determine the efficacy and feasibility of interval resistance training for health outcomes in this population.
Reproductive characteristics of the hermaphroditic four-finger threadfin, Eleutheronema tetradactylum (Shaw, 1804), in tropical coastal waters
Authors: Soe Kay Khine , Iqbal Teuku Haris , Lim Apiradee , Wang Wen‑Xiong , Tsim Karl W. K. , Takeuchi Yutaka , Petchsupa Nirattisai , Hajisamae Sukree
Published: September 2023

This study investigated the reproductive traits of the hermaphroditic four-finger threadfin,Eleutheronema tetradactylum, along the coasts of Thailand during January to December 2021. Fish samples were collected from Pattani Bay, Thailand to assess the sex ratio, gonadosomatic index (GSI), maturity stage and fecundity. Additional fish samples were also collected from other areas to evaluate the length and weight at first sex change (Ls50and Ws50) and length at first maturity (Lm50). The overall sex ratio for male and female was 1:0.69 with male being predominant throughout the year. Threadfin fish spawn the whole year round with peaks during moderate rainy and heavy rainy seasons. Histological examination confirmed its protandrous hermaphrodite posing multiple spawning habits. The average fecundity was 1.85 × 105 ± 1.05 × 105eggs and positively related with standard length, body weight, gonad weight, and egg diameter (p < 0.05). The Ls50and Ws50were 27.58 cm and 419.39 g, and 29.71 cm and 457.28 g, for fish from Pattani Bay and Samut Prakan province, respectively. The Lm50of male from Pattani Bay and Samut Prakan province were 25.78 cm and 25.56 cm, respectively, which were larger than those from Satun and Nakhon Sri Thammarat provinces. The Lm50of females from Pattani Bay was smaller than that from Samut Prakan province. This study provided fundamental information on the reproductive characteristics ofE. tetradactylum, which can be implemented to support management of natural fish stock and aquaculture development.
Radiologic simulation of leg length change after double level osteotomy in preoperative surgical planning
Authors: Nejima Shuntaro , Kumagai Ken , Yamada Shunsuke , Sotozawa Masaichi , Inaba Yutaka
Published: September 2023

Background

To evaluate the expected postoperative total leg length change using preoperative radiographs during surgical planning of four different methods of double level osteotomy (DLO).

Methods

This study included 34 patients (44 knees) who underwent DLO for varus knee osteoarthritis. Surgical planning was performed so that the postoperative weight bearing line ratio was 62.5%. In DLO, lateral closed or medial open wedge distal femoral osteotomy (LCWDFO, MOWDFO) was performed so that the postoperative mechanical lateral distal femoral angle was 85°, and residual deformity was corrected with medial open or lateral closed wedge high tibial osteotomy (MOWHTO, LCWHTO). Pre- and surgical planning X-rays in the one-leg standing position were compared to assess the change in leg length, and the factors affecting it, in the various surgical groups. The proportion of cases in which Δ total leg length was greater than 6 mm (symptomatic change) was investigated.

Results

The mean postoperative total leg length increased significantly with LCWDFO + MOWHTO, MOWDFO + MOWHTO, and MOWDFO + LCWHTO, while it decreased with LCWDFO + LCWHTO. The proportion of cases with a postoperative total leg length change > 6 mm was 72.7%, 2.3%, 100%, and 6.8% in LCWDFO + MOWHTO, LCWDFO + LCWHTO, MOWDFO + MOWHTO, and MOWDFO + LCWHTO, respectively. In addition, the preoperative hip-knee-ankle angle correlated negatively with the postoperative total leg length change in LCWDFO + MOWHTO, MOWDFO + MOWHTO, and MOWDFO + LCWHTO, but not in LCWDFO + LCWHTO.

Conclusions

MOWDFO + MOWHTO had the largest postoperative leg length change and MOWDFO + LCWHTO had the smallest. Symptomatic leg length change (> 6 mm) should be considered in MOWDFO + MOWHTO and LCWDFO + MOWHTO.
Classifying blinking and winking EOG signals using statistical analysis and LSTM algorithm
Authors: Hassanein Ahmed M. D. E. , Mohamed Ahmed G. M. A. , Abdullah Mohamed A. H. M.
Published: September 2023

Detection of eye movement types whether the movement of the eye itself or blinking has attracted a lot of recent research. In this paper, one method to detect the type of wink or blink produced by the eye is scrutinized and another method is proposed. We discuss what statistical analysis can teach us about detection of eye movement and propose a method based on long short-term memory (LSTM) networks to detect those types. The statistical analysis is composed of two main steps, namely calculation of the first derivative followed by a digitization step. According to the values of the digitized curve and the duration of the signal, the type of the signal is detected. The success rate reached 86.6% in detection of the movement of the eye when those volunteers are not trained on using our system. However, when they are trained, the detection success rate reached 93.3%. The statistical analysis succeeds in achieving detection of all types of eye movement except one type which is the non-intentional blinking. Although rate of success achieved is high, but as the number of people using this system increases, the error in detection increases that is because it is fixed and not adaptive to changes. However; we learnt from statistical analysis that the first derivative is a very important feature to classify the type of an EOG signal. Next, we propose using the LSTM network to classify EOG signals. The effect of using the first derivative as a feature for identifying the type of EOG signals is discussed. The LSTM algorithm succeeds in detecting the type of EOG signals with a percentage equal to 92% for all types of eye movement.
NIV support bronchoscopy by tracheostomy after decannulation failure: avoid new tracheostomy—case report and review analysis
Authors: Mohamed Hadeel , Elshazly Mostafa , Esquinas Antonio
Published: September 2023

Background

Decannulation is an essential step in liberating tracheostomised patients from mechanical ventilation. There is a paucity of literature on tracheostomy decannulation methods and procedures, leaving the decision to expert opinion and institutional guidelines. Failure to decannulate may result from several reasons, such as severe dysphagia, retention of copious secretions requiring invasive airway clearing techniques, or tracheal stenosis. Meanwhile, the combined use of either non-invasive ventilation during bronchoscopy has been reported as a successful strategy in different diagnostic and therapeutic clinical conditions.

Case presentation

We describe a patient admitted to the intensive care unit due to respiratory failure after a decannulation process and the use of non-invasive ventilation as rescue therapy during urgent flexible bronchoscopy to support this procedure and control acute hypercapnic respiratory failure and avoid recannulation process.

Conclusions

This case presents the rationale approach of using non-invasive ventilation during bronchoscopy to avoid decannulation failure by accumulation of secretions during this procedure.
Duodenal diversion surgery in management of intractable tracheobroncho-gastric fistula after esophagectomy
Authors: Urabe Masayuki , Yagi Koichi , Yoshimura Shuntaro , Ri Motonari , Yajima Shoh , Okumura Yasuhiro , Seto Yasuyuki
Published: September 2023

Background

Tracheobroncho-gastric fistula (TGF), a rare but potentially fatal complication following esophagectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction, has conventionally been treated with surgical repair and/or airway stenting. However, satisfactory therapeutic outcomes with these modalities have yet to be obtained because of difficulty in controlling persistent inflammation caused by digestive juice reflux.

Case presentation

We adopted duodenal diversion (DD), a classic anti-reflux surgical method, as an additional option for TGF management and have experienced two cases undergoing DD surgery for post-esophagectomy TGF (all male, 76–77 years old). TGF was developed after gastric conduit necrosis and anastomotic leakage, respectively, in these patients. In both cases, the DD procedure combined with surgical fistula repair was feasible with no DD-related complications. These operations achieved a good effect in terms of preventing gastroduodenal reflux and ameliorating respiratory status. Reconstructive surgery after DD was performed and oral dietary intake was successfully resumed in one case.

Conclusion

DD appears to be a valid evacuation therapy when airway contamination with gastroduodenal reflux is not amenable to the conventional approach alone, and can usefully be included in the TGF treatment strategy in appropriate cases.
Violence in first-episode psychosis: evidence from an early intervention in psychosis programme
Authors: Mentxaka Oihane , Recio-Barbero María , Arana-Arri Eunate , Segarra Rafael
Published: September 2023

Background

Psychotic disorders are frequently associated with a public perception of dangerousness and belligerence. This situation has contributed to the social stigmatisation of people with severe mental illness and the resulting discrimination that this scenario entails. Despite efforts to demystify such disorders, the association between violent behaviour and psychosis remains unclear.

Aims

To explore the incidence of the main types of violent offences in a cohort of patients presenting with first-episode psychosis (FEP).

Method

Participants were recruited from the First Episode Psychosis Intervention Program (CRUPEP) cohort between 2009 and 2016. The main clinical variables were collected, including medical-forensic records of participants registered at the Basque Institute of Forensic Medicine (BIFM), to identify any violent acts in which participants were involved, either as victims or as offenders.

Results

Overall, 79.5% (n = 182) of the participants had no record of violent crime or offence recorded in the BIFM. Annual crime rates for the 2009–2016 period show a decreasing trend in both the general population (IRR = 0.981, 95% CI 0.978–0.983, P < 0.001) and in the FEP group (IRR = 0.019, 95% CI 0.012–0.028, P < 0.001); this pattern is more pronounced in the FEP group. Victimisation accounted for the vast majority of reported incidents; nevertheless, participants who had committed violent offences were mostly involved in intrafamily violence.

Conclusions

Individuals with FEP were not involved in a higher number of crimes than the general population. The types of violent acts committed by people with FEP were heterogeneous, with extreme violence being particularly uncommon.
Protocol on comparative evaluation of the effect of application of 38% silver diamine fluoride on sealing ability of Biodentine and MTA Angelus as a perforation repair material: a confocal laser microscopic study
Authors: Wazurkar Saee , patel Dr. Aditya Singh
Published: September 2023

Background: Perforation can occur while performing root canal treatment. Biodentine has been made utilizing MTA (mineral trioxide aggregate) as a base, and claims to improve its properties in aspects such as physical property, durability, and handling, as well as its many other applications in restorative dentistry. The chemical components of SDF (silver diamine fluoride) have been suggested to have the following benefits: fluoride aids in remineralization and prevention, silver salts induce dentin sclerosis/calcification, and exhibit germicidal actions. It works by occluding dentinal tubules thus helping in preventing microleakage. This study aims to focus on the use of SDF on Biodentine and MTA as perforation repair material using a confocal microscope.

Methods: Mandibular molars will be selected for the study. The study will be divided into 4 groups: Group 1: Biodentine without application of 38% SDF; Group 2: Biodentine with the application of 38% SDF; Group 3: MTA Angelus without application of 38% SDF; and Group 4: MTA Angelus along with the application of 38% SDF. An artificial perforation 2 mm in diameter will be made directly in the middle of the pulpal floor. 38% silver diamine fluoride (FAMAGAIN) will be applied on the walls of the perforation according to the manufacturer’s instructions for the experimental groups (Groups 2 and 4). In the four groups, Biodentine will be applied in groups 1 and 2 and MTA will be applied in 3 and 4 (perforation repair material).

To evaluate the sealing capacity of perforation material in this study, we will use the average values of coronal dye leakage at the perforation site and Escobar’s criteria, which are used to assess the infiltration proportions.

Conclusions: It is expected that application of 38% of silver diamine fluoride on MTA Angelus and Biodentine may show better sealing ability than MTA Angelus and Biodentine alone.
A model curriculum in sexual medicine for undergraduate education in Europe
Authors: Di Dionisio Carlo Matteo , Bitzer Johannes , Greil-Soyka Marianne
Published: September 2023

Sexual health has been recognized as an essential component of the overall health and wellbeing. The current article aims, first, to review the current state of sexual health education in undergraduate medical curricula, identifying gaps, needs and challenges. The main part of this paper describes the development and content of an undergraduate sexual medicine curriculum based on a clear concept of the competencies students should learn regarding knowledge, skills and attitudes.

The content is based on a biopsychosocial understanding of human sexuality elaborated by international experts from different European countries integrating basic knowledge in biology, psychology, sociocultural and political sciences, preventive medicine, and the various therapeutic approaches to help women, men and couples with sexual health problems on a primary care level. In order to enable students to learn the  basic skills of sexual history taking and sexual basic counselling two educational videos were produced.

The material presented is part of the European Collaboration in Science and Technology (COST) supported project European Sexual Medicine Network (ESMN). The material provided can serve universities to give the training as a 25-30 hours course equivalent to 1 ECTS.
Overview of methods and available tools used in complex brain disorders
Authors: Ilias Loukas , Doukas George , Kontoulis Michael , Alexakis Konstantinos , Michalitsi-Psarrou Ariadni , Ntanos Christos , Askounis Dimitris
Published: September 2023

Complex brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s dementia, sleep disorders, and epilepsy, are chronic conditions that have high prevalence individually and in combination, increasing mortality risk, and contributing to the socioeconomic burden of patients, their families and, their communities at large. Although some literature reviews have been conducted mentioning the available methods and tools used for supporting the diagnosis of complex brain disorders and processing different files, there are still limitations. Specifically, these research works have focused primarily on one single brain disorder, i.e., sleep disorders or dementia or epilepsy. Additionally, existing research initiatives mentioning some tools, focus mainly on one single type of data, i.e., electroencephalography (EEG) signals or actigraphies or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and so on. To tackle the aforementioned limitations, this is the first study conducting a comprehensive literature review of the available methods used for supporting the diagnosis of multiple complex brain disorders, i.e., Alzheimer's dementia, sleep disorders, epilepsy. Also, to the best of our knowledge, we present the first study conducting a comprehensive literature review of all the available tools, which can be exploited for processing multiple types of data, including EEG, actigraphies, and MRIs, and receiving valuable forms of information which can be used for differentiating people in a healthy control group and patients suffering from complex brain disorders. Additionally, the present study highlights both the benefits and limitations of the existing available tools.
The genome sequence of the Autumnal Rustic, Eugnorisma glareosa (Esper, 1788)
Authors: Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: September 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Eugnorisma glareosa (the Autumnal Rustic; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 631.0 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.39 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 19,768 protein coding genes.
The genome sequence of the Grey Pine Carpet, Thera obeliscata (Hübner, 1787)
Authors: Lees David C. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life programme,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: DNA Pipelines collective,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: September 2023

We present a genome assembly from an individual male Thera obeliscata (the Grey Pine Carpet; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Geometridae). The genome sequence is 404.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 18 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.5 kilobases in length.
Management and rehabilitation of moderate-to-severe diabetic foot infection: a narrative review
Authors: An Chi Young , Baek Seung Lim , Chun Dong-Il
Published: September 2023

Diabetic foot is one of the most devastating consequences of diabetes, resulting in amputation and possibly death. Therefore, early detection and vigorous treatment of infections in patients with diabetic foot are critical. This review seeks to provide guidelines for the therapy and rehabilitation of patients with moderate-to-severe diabetic foot. If a diabetic foot infection is suspected, bacterial cultures should be initially obtained. Numerous imaging studies can be used to identify diabetic foot, and recent research has shown that white blood cell single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography has comparable diagnostic specificity and sensitivity to magnetic resonance imaging. Surgery is performed when a diabetic foot ulcer is deep and is accompanied by bone and soft tissue infections. Patients should be taught preoperative rehabilitation before undergoing stressful surgery. During surgical procedures, it is critical to remove all necrotic tissue and drain the inflammatory area. It is critical to treat wounds with suitable dressings after surgery. Wet dressings promote the formation of granulation tissues and new blood vessels. Walking should begin as soon as the patient’s general condition allows it, regardless of the wound status or prior walking capacity. Adequate treatment of comorbidities, including hypertension and dyslipidemia, and smoking cessation are necessary. Additionally, broad-spectrum antibiotics are required to treat diabetic foot infections.
Registro de Mahanarva spectabilis (Distant) (Hemiptera: Cercopidae) em Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã no estado do Acre
Authors: Santos Rodrigo Souza , Silva Samara Araújo da
Published: September 2023

O estudo da distribuição geográfica e espécies hospedeiras de cigarrinhas-das-pastagens facilita o desenvolvimento de estratégias de monitoramento e controle dessas pragas. O objetivo desse trabalho é reportar a associação de Mahanarva spectabilis (Distant) em Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã no estado Acre. Esse cercopídeo é um inseto sugador de graminícolas e foi registrado no estado do Acre apenas em 2021, associada a Urochloa brizantha cv. Xaraés. Devido ao registro de M. spectabilis no estado do Acre ser relativamente recente, faz-se necessário estudos que visem conhecer a distribuição geográfica, níveis de dano, sazonalidade de infestação e níveis de resistência de cultivares de pastagens nas condições edafoclimáticas do Estado.
Exploring the Efficacy of Vegetarian Diet in Diverse Pathologies
Authors: Puchalski Krzysztof , Szumlas Zuzanna , Mrozek Łukasz , Hajduk Aleksandra , Jurek Aleksander , Klocek Konrad , Zwolski Maciej , Kostecki Bartosz , Witalec Szymon
Published: September 2023

Introduction and Purpose: Human health is influenced by a variety of factors, such as genetics, environment, lifestyle, and accessibility to healthcare. While some of these factors are beyond the control of the patient, lifestyle, which is considered the primary determinant of a healthy life, strongly relies on individual choices. In this paper, we aim to demonstrate the benefits of adopting a vegetarian diet as a cornerstone for maintaining good health and as a supplementary approach to treating common diseases.State of Knowledge: The vegetarian diet is primarily based on plants and includes products from animals, such as eggs and dairy. However, it excludes all types of meat and any products that require the death of animals. This diet is adopted for various reasons, including religious, socio-economic, or ethical considerations. It is recognized globally and has become a subject of scientific research for numerous scholars. Many studies investigate its influence on human health, and the results are generally positive. The diet is frequently used as a treatment, often in combination with specific pharmaceutical drugs. This approach leads to weight reduction, decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and can have positive therapeutic effects on conditions like gout or chronic kidney disease. Given that some of these diseases have become increasingly problematic for public health systems, a vegetarian diet can help decrease the number of people affected by them.Conclusion: Given that cardiovascular diseases and incidents are the leading causes of death worldwide, adopting a vegetarian diet can assist patients in avoiding them by reducing their LDL levels and decreasing blood pressure. This diet demonstrates a positive therapeutic effect on patients dealing with chronic kidney disease and gout. It aids in weight reduction and helps prevent the development of metabolic syndrome, which has a variety of beneficial effects.
High-isolation Wi-Fi Antenna System based on Metamaterial
Authors: Chen Zhihao , Wang Ziqin , Chen Fangyuan , Hou Xi , Zhou Yonghong , Phav Lam
Published: September 2023

In this research, an inverted L shaped Wi-Fi antenna with a metamaterial (MTM) decoupling unit is proposed. This swirly-shaped antenna has a compact geometry size of 0.1 wavelength. The metamaterial decoupling unit is placed between the antenna elements to improve the isolation to reduce the mutual coupling. The antenna’s isolation reached 20.7 dB from 2.4 GHz to 2.48 GHz, and 23.5 dB from 5.15 GHz to 5.85 GHz, after the metamaterial unit was introduced. This designed methodology reinforced the anti-interference capability. This compact and low-cost antenna is especially suitable for application in high-density Wi-Fi 6 systems.
Temperature Controlled Terahertz Absorbers based on Omega Resonators
Authors: Jing Jia-Tong , Song Wei , Ge Ting-Ting , Sheng Xin-Qing , Balmakou Aliaksei , Khakhomov Sergei
Published: September 2023

In this article, the structural stability of a metasurface absorber that works at 2.8 THz is analyzed. Since the absorber is made of metallic titanium, its elemental inclusions will be heated up and expand when absorbing electromagnetic waves. To evaluate the accumulated heat, the structural thermal expansion and the stability of the wave-absorbing performance, electromagnetism-thermodynamics-structural mechanics multiphysics simulations are conducted. Based on the thermal stability study, thermistors are further introduced into the metasurface, leading to two thermal controlled terahertz absorbers. Numerical experiments show that the absorbers present a peak absorption coefficient of 92.7% at 2.79 THz up to the temperature of 1761.4 K. When the temperature rises, the absorption frequencies of the two absorbers shift to 3.51 THz and 3.94 THz, with the peak absorption coefficients of 92.8% and 93.8%, respectively.
Decompression of Paralabral Cyst near Axillary Nerve: A Case Report
Authors: Gol Abhishek K , Bodanki Chandrasekhar S , Yadoji Harikrishna , Reddy Guruva , Reddy M V
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Paralabral cyst is benign fluid-filled lesion that occurs adjacent to glenoid labrum. Origin of the cyst can be traumatic or atraumatic. This cystic lesion can compress nearby axillary nerve or suprascapular nerve, resulting in shoulder pain and numbness. In this case report, we will discuss about anteroinferior paralabral cyst with axillary neuropathy in atraumatic condition. Case Report: A 35-year-old male was admitted in our institute with complaining of numbness in the mid-part of the lateral arm and pain in the posterior aspect in the left shoulder for 2 weeks. The patient has on-and-off pain in the left shoulder on lifting weight. He had no history of trauma. X-ray was normal. On examination, tenderness presents over the dorsal aspect of shoulder and reduced sensations over deltoid muscle (regimen badge sign). Deltoid atrophy was noted. Range of motion was normal. On examination, cervical spine was normal, and reduced sensation over the lateral aspect of arm and deltoid atrophy was present. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows large multiloculated paralabral cyst caudal to inferior glenoid rim. The diagnosis was compressive axillary neuropathy which was confirmed by nerve condition study. Conclusion: According to this case report, accurate early clinical examination and MRI evaluation are crucial in patients with atraumatic shoulder pain associated with neurological symptoms. On identification, cyst can be successfully decompressed by shoulder arthroscopy which can prevent axillary nerve damage, muscle denervation, and also recurrence of cyst can be avoided. Keywords: Labral cyst, axillary nerve cyst decompression, hook electrode.