bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of milling procedures in CAD-CAM systems on the color changes of CAD-CAM polymethyl methacrylate resin material as interim material
Authors: Oyar Perihan , Ulusoy Mutahhar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effects of new and used burs on CAD-CAM PMMA resin color changes following thermocycling.

Materials and methods

Twenty disk-shaped specimens (10 × 2 mm) were made using a single brand of CAD-CAM polymethyl methacrylate resin (Polident) for the color test. Group N consisted of half of the specimens that were machined using the new tungsten carbide bur set, and Group U consisted of the specimens that were milled using the used bur set (500 machining time). A color test was performed on the specimens both before and after thermocycling. For the statistical analysis, the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn Pairwise Comparison tests were employed.

Results

The ∆E* value of specimens (2.057) milled with the used bur was higher than those of specimens milled with the new bur (0.340), but this value is within clinically acceptable limits. After thermocycling, specimens milled with the utilized burs had the greatest L* (93.850) and b* (5.000) values. After thermocycling, statistically significant differences were discovered between Group N and Group U as well as between specimens milled with the utilized bur before and after thermocycling.

Conclusion

Thermocycling process have an effect on the mean ∆E values of specimens milled with the used carbide bur, but these ∆E* values were not statistically significant.

Clinical significance

The color and clinical performance of CAD-CAM restorations may be affected by variations in CAD-CAM milling bur properties, particularly those related to their frequent use.
Effect of glazing and thermocycling on the fracture toughness and hardness of a New fully crystallized aluminosilicate CAD/CAM ceramic material
Authors: Fouda Ahmed Mahmoud , Bourauel Christoph , Samran Abdulaziz , Kassem Amr Shebl , Alhotan Abdulaziz
Published: May 2024

Background

The mechanical properties of fully crystallized lithium aluminosilicate ceramics may be influenced by intraoral temperature variations and postmilling surface treatment. The purpose of this study is to explore the interplay among glazing, thermocycling, and the mechanical characteristics (namely, fracture toughness and hardness) of fully crystallized lithium aluminosilicate ceramics.

Methods

Bending bars (n = 40) cut from LisiCAD blocks (GC, Japan) were randomly assigned to glazed or unglazed groups (n = 20) and subjected to the single edge v-notch beam method to create notches. A glazing firing cycle was applied to the glazed group, while the unglazed group was not subjected to glazing. Half of the specimens (n = 10) from both groups underwent thermocycling before fracture toughness testing. The fracture toughness (KIC) was evaluated at 23 ± 1 °C using a universal testing machine configured for three-point bending, and the crack length was measured via light microscopy. Seven specimens per group were selected for the hardness test. Hardness was assessed using a Vickers microhardness tester with a 1 kg load for 20 s, and each specimen underwent five indentations following ISO 14705:2016. The Shapiro–Wilk and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests were used to evaluate the normality of the data and a two-way ANOVA was utilized for statistical analysis. The significance level was set at (α = 0.05).

Results

Regardless of the thermocycling conditions, the glazed specimens exhibited significantly greater fracture toughness than did their unglazed counterparts (P < 0.001). Thermocycling had no significant impact on the fracture toughness of either the glazed or unglazed specimens. Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed no significant effects on hardness with thermocycling in either group, and glazing alone did not substantially affect hardness.

Conclusions

The impact of glazing on the fracture toughness of LiSiCAD restorations is noteworthy, but it has no significant influence on their hardness. Furthermore, within the parameters of this study, thermocycling was found to exert negligible effects on both fracture toughness and hardness.
Treatment outcomes of pulpotomy versus pulpectomy in vital primary molars diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis: protocol for a non-inferiority randomised controlled trial
Authors: Philip Nebu , Cherian Joe Mathew , Mathew Mebin George , Thomas Abi M. , Jodhka Sunaina , John Nino , Suneja Bharat , Duggal Mandeep
Published: May 2024

Background

Pulpectomy continues to be the standard treatment recommendation for management of vital primary molars diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis. The recent decade has seen a paradigm shift in the treatment concepts of how vital mature permanent molars diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis can be more conservatively managed using vital pulp therapy techniques like pulpotomy. However, despite emerging evidence indicating similarities between primary and permanent tooth pulp response to dental caries, there is limited research on whether pulpotomy can be similarly used as a definitive treatment modality for vital primary teeth with irreversible pulpitis. This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to compare the treatment effectiveness of pulpotomy versus pulpectomy in management of vital primary molars diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis over a two-year period.

Methods/design

This clinical study is a parallel, two-armed, open label, non-inferiority RCT with a 1:1 allocation ratio between the experimental intervention arm (pulpotomy) and the active comparator arm (pulpectomy). Healthy cooperative children, between 4–9 years of age, who have painful primary molars with clinical symptoms typical of irreversible pulpitis will be recruited after obtaining informed consent from their parents/legal guardians. 50 vital primary molars clinically diagnosed with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis will be randomly distributed between the two treatment arms. The primary outcomes that will be assessed are clinical and radiographic success after six-months, one-year and two-years of the trial interventions. The influence of baseline pre-operative variables (age; gender; tooth type; site of caries; pre-operative furcal radiolucency; pre-operative pain intensity) and intra-operative factors (time taken to achieve haemostasis) on treatment outcomes will also be assessed. The secondary outcome evaluated will be the immediate (24 h and 7 d) post-operative pain relief afforded by the two treatment interventions.

Discussion

This trial seeks to provide evidence on whether pulpotomy treatment can be no worse than the standard pulpectomy treatment for the management of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis in vital primary molars.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT06183203). Registered on 30 January 2024.
Insights into the potential dual-antibacterial mechanism of Kelisha capsule on Escherichia coli
Authors: Shi Guolin , Lu Xiao , Zheng Yuanhang , Yang Tao , Zhu Enyuan , Song Yanhong , Huang Pintong
Published: May 2024

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), AYURVEDA and Indian medicine are essential in disease prevention and treatment. Kelisha capsule (KLSC), a TCM formula listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, has been clinically proven to possess potent antibacterial properties. However, the precise antimicrobial mechanism of KLSC remained unknown. This study aimed to elucidate the dual antibacterial mechanism of KLSC using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation. By analyzing the growth curve of Escherichia coli (E. coli), it was observed that KLSC significantly inhibited its growth, showcasing a remarkable antibacterial effect. Furthermore, SEM and TEM analysis revealed that KLSC damaged the cell wall and membrane of E. coli, resulting in cytoplasmic leakage, bacterial death, and the exertion of antibacterial effects. The network pharmacology analysis revealed that KLSC exhibited an effect on E. coli ATP synthase, thereby influencing the energy metabolism process. The molecular docking outcomes provided evidence that the active compounds of KLSC could effectively bind to the ATP synthase subunit. Subsequently, experimental findings substantiated that KLSC effectively suppressed the activity of ATP synthase in E. coli and consequently decreased the ATP content. This study highlighted the dual antibacterial mechanism of KLSC, emphasizing its effects on cell structure and energy metabolism, suggesting its potential as a natural antibacterial agent for E. coli-related infections. These findings offered new insights into exploring the antibacterial mechanisms of TCM by focusing on the energy metabolism process.
Standardized patients’ experience of participating in medical students’ education: a qualitative content analysis
Authors: Ghorbani Banafsheh , Jackson Alun C. , Dehghan-Nayeri Nahid , Bahramnezhad Fatemeh
Published: May 2024

Background

Standardized patients are considered a significant educational method in medical sciences and have been successfully employed for many years. This study was conducted with the aim of explaining the experience of standardized patients participating in the education of medical student.

Method

A qualitative content analysis approach was used. This study was conducted at Standardized Patient Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, May to February 2022. Fifteen standard patients were selected through purposive sampling with maximum variation. Semi-structured, in-depth, face-to-face interviews were conducted with standard patients. The average duration of the interviews was 60 to 90 min. Data were transcribed and analyzed using the Graneheim and Lundman approach.

Results

A passport for the future and duality of feelings were the two main themes identified in this study with six subthemes. One of the main themes was passport for the future with subthemes creative, participation in educating future generation, reflection and another theme was duality of feeling with subthemes feeling of value, guilty conscience, and fear of judgment by others.

Conclusion

The participants expressed having mixed feelings about their role as standard patients. They felt conflicted because they were compensated for their participation, which made them worry about being judged by others and feel guilty about taking the fee. Therefore, it is recommended to conduct further studies in this area.
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on physician-scientist trainees to faculty one year into the pandemic
Authors: Obradovic Aleksandar , Toubat Omar , Chen Nathan W. , Siebert Aisha , Jansen Caroline , Christophers Briana , Leveille Etienne , Noch Evan , Kwan Jennifer M.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Physician-scientists play a crucial role in advancing biomedical sciences. Proportionally fewer physicians are actively engaged in scientific pursuits, attributed to attrition in the training and retention pipeline. This national study evaluated the ongoing and longer-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stress levels, research productivity, and optimism for physician-scientists at all levels of training.

Methods

A multi-institutional cross-sectional survey of medical students, graduate students, and residents/fellows/junior faculty (RFJF) was conducted from April to August 2021 to assess the impact of COVID-19 on individual stress, productivity, and optimism. Multivariate regression analyses were performed to identify associated variables and unsupervised variable clustering techniques were employed to identify highly correlated responses.

Results

A total 677 respondents completed the survey, representing different stages of physician-scientist training. Respondents report high levels of stress (medical students: 85%, graduate students: 63%, RFJF: 85%) attributed to impaired productivity concerns, concern about health of family and friends, impact on personal health and impairment in training or career development. Many cited impaired productivity (medical students: 65% graduate students: 79%, RFJF: 78%) associated with pandemic impacts on training, labs closures and loss of facility/resource access, and social isolation. Optimism levels were low (medical students: 37%, graduate students: 38% and RFJF: 39%) with females less likely to be optimistic and more likely to report concerns of long-term effects of COVID-19. Optimism about the future was correlated with not worrying about the long-term effects of COVID-19. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, all respondents reported increased prioritization of time with family/friends (67%) and personal health (62%) over career (25%) and research (24%).

Conclusions

This national survey highlights the significant and protracted impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stress levels, productivity, and optimism among physician-scientists and trainees. These findings underscore the urgent need for tailored support, including mental health, academic, and career development assistance for this biomedical workforce.
Design and practice of blended teaching of internal medicine nursing based on O-AMAS effective teaching model
Authors: Duan Anyan , Jiang Fen , Li Ling , Li Qun , Chen Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

Self-directed learning (SDL) ability is the basis for cultivating nursing students’ ability to find and solve problems, lifelong learning, and providing high-quality nursing talents for healthcare. The O-AMAS (Objective, Activation, Multi-learning, Assessment, Summary) model adheres to the teaching philosophy of student-centered, result-oriented, combines the advantages of online and offline teaching, enriching teaching resources and learning channels, diversifying teaching and evaluation methods, and emphasizing integrating and applying knowledge conducive to improving students’ SDL ability and achieving teaching objectives. This study explored the course design, practical, and application effects under the O-AMAS effective teaching model in internal medicine nursing to provide a basis and reference for combining effective teaching models with blended teaching in future nursing courses.

Methods

This study is a self-controlled before-after trial. The participants were 76 nursing undergraduates from Hunan Normal University. This study utilizes the O-AMAS effective teaching model to design internal medicine nursing courses and implement blended online and offline teaching. Main links: The overall course design and application are student-centered, after clarifying macro and micro multi-dimensional learning objectives, with online and offline blended teaching environments activated students’ learning behavior and diversified teachers’ teaching activities, then based on instant and dynamic provide effective feedback; finally, students take the initiate to make a brief and potent summary under the teacher guidance. After the course, a unified assessment of the learning effect of nursing students was conducted, including the evaluation of the SDL ability of nursing students, a final comprehensive evaluation grade, and a teaching satisfaction survey.

Results

The nursing students’ SDL ability scores are higher than before teaching, and the results were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The final average comprehensive evaluation grade of nursing students was 78.38 ± 7.12. More than 96% of the students are satisfied with this course.

Conclusion

Applying for internal medicine nursing blended teaching integrated with the O-AMAS effective teaching model is conducive to improving nursing students’ SDL ability, academic grades, and teaching satisfaction.
Using symbiotic empirical ethics to explore the significance of relationships to clinical ethics: findings from the Reset Ethics research project
Authors: Redhead Caroline A. B. , Frith Lucy , Chiumento Anna , Fovargue Sara , Draper Heather
Published: May 2024

Background

At the beginning of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, many non-Covid healthcare services were suspended. In April 2020, the Department of Health in England mandated that non-Covid services should resume, alongside the continuing pandemic response. This ‘resetting’ of healthcare services created a unique context in which it became critical to consider how ethical considerations did (and should) underpin decisions about integrating infection control measures into routine healthcare practices. We draw on data collected as part of the ‘NHS Reset Ethics’ project, which explored the everyday ethical challenges of resetting England’s NHS maternity and paediatrics services during the pandemic.

Methods

Healthcare professionals and members of the public participated in interviews and focus group discussions. The qualitative methods are reported in detail elsewhere. The focus of this article is our use of Frith’s symbiotic empirical ethics methodology to work from our empirical findings towards the normative suggestion that clinical ethics should explicitly attend to the importance of relationships in clinical practice. This methodology uses a five-step approach to refine and develop ethical theory based on a naturalist account of ethics that sees practice and theory as symbiotically related.

Results

The Reset project data showed that changed working practices caused ethical challenges for healthcare professionals, and that infection prevention and control measures represented harmful barriers to the experience of receiving and offering care. For healthcare professionals, offering care as part of a relational interaction was an ethically important dimension of healthcare delivery.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that foregrounding the importance of relationships across a hospital community will better promote the ethically important multi-directional expression of caring between healthcare professionals, patients, and their families. We offer two suggestions for making progress towards such a relational approach. First, that there is a change of emphasis in clinical ethics practice to explicitly acknowledge the importance of the relationships (including with their healthcare team) within which the patient is held. Second, that organisational decision-making should take into account the moral significance afforded to caring relationships by healthcare professionals, and the role such relationships can play in the negotiation of ethical challenges.
The first national pediatric immune thrombocytopenia registry in Iran: research protocol and preliminary study results
Authors: Kamfar Sharareh , Haghi Sabahat , Zeinali Vahide , Tavana Parastoo Molaei , Arjmand Reza , Malek Fatemeh
Published: May 2024

Background

Disease registries are comprehensive databases that record detailed information on patients diagnosed with specific conditions, providing valuable insights into their diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. This study aims to describe the pilot phase of the national pediatric Immune Thrombocytopenia(ITP) registry (NPITP) in Iran, serving as the inaugural interpretive report.

Methods

This patient-centered software system was implemented as a national program across multiple pediatric centers in Iran. Several focus groups were conducted to establish a minimum data set (MDS) comprising six main classes, 14 sub-classes, and 187 data elements. Following expert consensus on the final data set, a web-based software tool was developed by the dedicated IT team, accessible online and offline via https://disreg.sbmu.ac.ir/q/ITP.html. The registry included children aged between two months and 18 years with a platelet count below 100 × 109/L, based on predefined inclusion criteria.

Results

Within a four-month period, a total of 60 ITP patients were registered, including 41 (68.3%) newly diagnosed cases, 68 (13.6%) persistent cases, and 14 (23.3%) with chronic ITP. The mean age of the registered patients was 55.93 ± 9.72 months. The most frequently observed bleeding symptoms were petechiae (68.3%), purpura (51.6%), and ecchymosis (13.3%). Among the newly diagnosed patients, 20 (33.3%) received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), 17 (28.3%) were treated with prednisolone, and 17 (28.3%) received combined IVIG and steroid therapy. Of all patients, 40 (66.7%) demonstrated a complete response to treatment, while 16 (26.7%) exhibited a partial response. Four patients (6.7%) remained unresponsive to therapy. Treatment-related complications, such as Cushing’s syndrome, edema, weight gain, hirsutism, and mood disorders, were reported in 10 patients (16.6%). However, the majority of patients (81.7%) did not experience therapy-related complications.

Conclusion

The pilot phase of the NPITP registry successfully implemented a web-based software tool for data collection, aiming to enhance the quality of care, facilitate clinical research, and support health service planning in the future.
Forest cover percentage drives the peak biting time of Nyssorhynchus darlingi (Diptera: Culicidae) in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Chaves Leonardo Suveges Moreira , Bergo Eduardo Sterlino , Bickersmith Sara A. , Laporta Gabriel Z. , Conn Jan E. , Sallum Maria Anice Mureb
Published: May 2024

Background

Deforestation is an important driver of malaria dynamics, with a relevant impact on mosquito ecology, including larval habitat availability, blood-feeding behaviour, and peak biting time. The latter is one of several entomological metrics to evaluate vectorial capacity and effectiveness of disease control. This study aimed to test the effect of forest cover percentage on the peak biting time of Plasmodium-uninfected and infected Nyssorhynchus darlingi females.

Methods

Mosquitoes were captured utilizing human landing catch (HLC) in the peridomestic habitat in field collections carried out in the wet, wet-dry transition, and dry seasons from 2014 to 2017 in areas with active malaria transmission in Amazonian Brazil. The study locations were in rural settlements in areas with the mean annual malaria parasite incidence (Annual Parasite Incidence, API ≥ 30). All Ny. darlingi females were tested for Plasmodium spp. infection using real time PCR technique. Forest cover percentage was calculated for each collection site using QGIS v. 2.8 and was categorized in three distinct deforestation scenarios: (1) degraded, < 30% forest cover, (2) intermediate, 30–70% forest cover, and (3) preserved, > 70% forest cover.

Results

The highest number of uninfected female Ny. darlingi was found in degraded landscape-sites with forest cover < 30% in any peak biting time between 18:00 and 0:00. Partially degraded landscape-sites, with (30–70%) forest cover, showed the highest number of vivax-infected females, with a peak biting time of 21:00–23:00. The number of P. falciparum-infected mosquitoes was highest in preserved sites with > 70% forest cover, a peak biting at 19:00–20:00, and in sites with 30–70% forest cover at 22:00–23:00.

Conclusions

Results of this study show empirically that degraded landscapes favour uninfected Ny. darlingi with a peak biting time at dusk (18:00–19:00), whereas partially degraded landscapes affect the behaviour of Plasmodium-infected Ny. darlingi by shifting its peak biting time towards hours after dark (21:00–23:00). In preserved sites, Plasmodium-infected Ny. darlingi bite around dusk (18:00–19:00) and shortly after (19:00–20:00).
The outcome of nonoperative treatment for adult humeral shaft fractures using a U-shaped slab in resource-limited settings: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Nshimiyimana Alexis , Ingabire Jean de la Croix Allen , Byiringiro Jean Claude , Habumugisha Basile , Mwizerwa Jean Luc
Published: May 2024

Background

Humeral shaft fractures, constituting 3–5% of musculoskeletal injuries, are commonly managed conservatively using functional braces. However, this approach may not be feasible in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to evaluate the functional outcomes of nonoperative treatment for humeral shaft fractures in adults utilizing a U-shaped slab.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted from August 2021 to August 2022 involving 16-year-old and older individuals who received nonsurgical treatment for humeral shaft fractures at public tertiary hospitals in Rwanda. The assessment focused on various functional outcomes, including alignment, union rate, range of motion, return to activities of daily living, and DASH score.

Results

The study included 73 participants, predominantly males (73.9%), with a median age of 33 years. The union rate was high at 89.04%, and 10.96% experienced delayed union. Radial nerve palsy occurred in 4.11% of patients, but all the patients fully recovered within three months. Despite angular deformities during healing in the majority of participants, these deformities did not significantly impact functional outcomes. According to the international classification of disabilities, 77% of participants achieved a good functional grade.

Conclusion

The conservative U-shaped slab method was effective at managing humeral shaft fractures. However, optimal results necessitate careful participant selection and comprehensive rehabilitation education. Implementing these measures can improve the overall success of nonoperative management.
Correlation between higher lateral tibial slope and inferior long term subjective outcomes following single bundle anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Hung Yu-Chieh , Chuang Chieh-An , Yao Shang-Yu , Lin Keng-Yi , Hung Shih-Feng , Chen Yi-Jou , Chiu Chih-Hao , Ho Chin-Shan , Yang Cheng-Pang , Chan Yi-Sheng
Published: May 2024

Background

The impact of anatomical factors, such as the lateral tibial slope (LTS), on outcomes following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is an area of growing interest. This study was led by the observation that patients with a higher LTS may have different recovery trajectories.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between a higher LTS and long term subjective outcomes following single-bundle ACL reconstruction.

Study Design

This study was designed as a retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The study comprised 138 patients who underwent single-bundle ACL reconstruction. The LTS was measured on preoperative radiographs. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected, which included the Lysholm Knee Score, UCLA Activity Score, IKDC Score, and Tegner Activity Score, over a mean follow-up duration of 137 months.

Results

A significant negative correlation was found between LTS and all measured PROMs (p < 0.001). The established cut-off value of LTS distinguishing between “Good” and “Fair” Lysholm scores was 8.35 degrees. Female patients have statistically significant higher LTS and lower PROMs scores than male. Patients with LTS greater than or equal to 8.35 had significantly lower PROMs, indicative of poorer functional and subjective outcomes.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that a higher LTS is associated with inferior subjective outcomes following single-bundle ACL reconstruction in long term. The LTS cut-off value of 8.35 degrees could potentially be used as a reference in preoperative planning and patient counseling.

Clinical relevance

Understanding the relationship between LTS and ACL reconstruction outcomes could inform surgical planning and postoperative management. These findings highlight the need to consider anatomical variances, such as LTS, when assessing patient-specific risks and recovery expectations, contributing to the advancement of personalized care in sports medicine.
Early functional improvements using continuous passive motion therapy after angular-stable plate osteosynthesis of proximal humerus fractures – results of a prospective, randomized trial
Authors: Tille Eric , Lorenz Franz , Beyer Franziska , Schlüßler Antonia , Biewener Achim , Nowotny Jörg
Published: May 2024

Background

The use of continuous passive motion therapy (CPM) has led to promising results in the early phase of rehabilitation after surgical treatment of rotator cuff tears and arthrolysis of the elbow. However, its use has not been proven in other pathologies of the upper extremity. Therefore, the aim of the underlying study was to evaluate the use of CPM therapy after plate osteosynthesis of proximal humeral fractures.

Methods

95 patients with isolated proximal humerus fractures were enrolled in a prospective, randomized study. Patients were assigned to a treatment group with (n = 48, CPM) or without CPM therapy (n = 47, CG). Four patients (2 of each cohort) violated the study protocol and were excluded. CPM therapy was used for 6 weeks after surgery 2–3 times daily. Functional (range of motion) and patient reported outcomes (PROM, Constant Score [CSS], QuickDASH, subjective shoulder value [SSV], pain on visual analogue scale [VAS]) were evaluated at 6 weeks, 3 and 12months. 60 patients completed the 1-year follow-up.

Results

The average patient age was 65.3 years (min: 27, max: 88, SD: ± 14.7). Seventy-two patients were female (79%). There was no difference regarding injury severity (2/3/4 part-fracture: 6/32/7 vs. 9/26/11, p = 0.867) and sex (p = 0.08). However, patients in the CPM group were significantly younger (CPM: 67 [min: 34, max: 82], CG: 74 [min: 27, max: 88], p = 0.032). After 6 weeks we observed a better range of motion for forward flexion (CPM: 90° [min: 50°, max: 180°] vs. CG: 80° [min: 20°, max: 170°] p = 0.035) and abduction (CPM: 80° [min: 40°, max: 180°] vs. CG: 70° [min: 20°, max: 180°], p = 0.048) in the CPM group. There was no difference regarding the further planes of motion or the assessed PROMs at 6 weeks. At 3 and 12 months the results between the treatment groups equalized with no further significant differences.

Conclusion

The treatment with CPM increases the range of motion after plate osteosynthesis of proximal humerus fractures in the first 6 weeks after surgery. This effect is not sustained after 3 and 12months. The evaluated PROMs are not being influenced by CPM therapy. Hence the results of this prospective randomized study suggest that CPM can be a beneficial asset in the early period of rehabilitation after proximal humerus plate osteosynthesis.

Trial registration

The study protocol was registered in the US National Institutes of Health’s database (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov) registry under NCT 05952622.
Prognostic value of visual IMPeTUs criteria and metabolic tumor burden at baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Marchiori Silvano , Cousin François , Papadopoulos Iraklis , Bernard Claire , Thys Marie , De Prijck Bernard , Pirotte Michelle , Donneau Anne-Françoise , Hustinx Roland , Caers Jo , Withofs Nadia
Published: May 2024

Background

2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) positron emission tomography combined with low-dose computed tomography (PET/CT) can be used at diagnosis to identify myeloma-defining events and also provides prognostic factors. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic significance of baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT visual IMPeTUs (Italian myeloma criteria for PET Use)-based parameters and/or total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) in a single-center population of patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) eligible for transplantation.

Methods

Patients with MM who underwent a baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT were retrospectively selected from a large internal database of the University Hospital of Liege (Liege, Belgium). Initially, all PET/CT images were visually analyzed using IMPeTUs criteria, followed by delineation of TMTV using a semi-automatic lesion delineation workflow, including [18F]FDG-positive MM focal lesions (FL) with an absolute SUV threshold set at 4.0. In a first step, to ensure PET/CT scans accurate reporting, the agreement between two nuclear medicine physicians with distinct experience was assessed. In the second step, univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted to determine the prognostic significance of [18F]FDG PET/CT parameters on progression free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), respectively.

Results

A total of 40 patients with NDMM were included in the study. The observers agreement in the analysis [18F]FDG PET/CT images was substantial for the presence of spine FL, extra spine FL, at least one fracture and paramedullary disease (Cohen’s kappa 0.79, 0.87, 0.75 and 0.64, respectively). For the presence of skull FL and extramedullary disease the agreement was moderate (Cohen’s kappa 0.56 and 0.53, respectively). Among [18F]FDG PET/CT parameters, a high number of delineated volumes of interest (VOI) using the SUV4.0 threshold was the only independent prognostic factor associated with PFS [HR (95% CI): 1.03 (1.004–1.05), P = 0.019] while a high number of FL (n > 10; F group 4) was the only independent prognostic factor associated with OS [HR (95% CI): 19.10 (1.90–191.95), P = 0.01].

Conclusion

Our work confirms the reproducibility IMPeTUs criteria. Furthermore, it demonstrates that a high number of FL (n > 10; IMPeTUs F group 4), reflecting a high [18F]FDG-avid tumor burden, is an independent prognostic factor for OS. The prognostic value of the TMTV delineated using a SUV4.0 threshold was not significant. Nevertheless, the count of delineated [18F]FDG-avid lesions VOI using a SUV4.0 threshold was an independent prognostic factor for PFS.
Mixture optimization for mechanical, environmental, and economic objectives in grouting slurry for repairing earthen sites
Authors: Cui Kai , Shao Huian , Yu Xiangpeng , Pei Qiangqiang , Zhang Shuai
Published: May 2024

Anchor and fissure grouting are used to repair earthen sites. However, the common method to obtain the compressive strength of grouting slurry would cause material, labor, and time losses. In addition the material properties, environmental and economic benefits have gained increasing attention. This study proposes a design framework for multi-objective proportioning optimization based on machine learning and metaheuristics. The results indicated that the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model, whose hyper-parameters were optimized by a genetic algorithm, can accurately predicted the compressive strength of the slurries. The impact of the variables on development of compressive strength can explain the internal reaction mechanisms. The analytical framework based on meta-heuristic and technique for order of preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS) provided Pareto-optimal solutions in design scenario of each sub-dataset. The framework proposed in this study can efficiently achieve mechanical, environmental, and economic design objectives of anchor grouting and fissure grouting slurries for repairing earthen sites.
Metabolic Profiles of Offspring Born From Biopsied Embryos from Toddlerhood to Preschool Age
Authors: Zhao Jialin , Li Shuo , Ban Miaomiao , Gao Shuzhe , Cui Linlin , Yan Junhao , Yang Xiaohe , Li Jincheng , Zhang Yiyuan , Guan Shengnan , Zhou Wei , Gao Xuan , Chen Zi-Jiang
Published: May 2024

Context

Embryo biopsy, which is necessary for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), has not been fully investigated regarding its potential influences and safety. Previous studies of children born from biopsied embryos (PGT children) have primarily centered around their growth and neuropsychological development, while there remains limited knowledge concerning their endocrine and metabolic parameters.

Objective

This study aims to examine the effect of trophectoderm (TE) biopsy on metabolic outcomes for PGT children.

Methods

A total of 1267 children from the Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, who were conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with and without PGT, were analyzed in this study. Three sets of measurements pertaining to growth and metabolism were taken at each predetermined follow-up time point. The linear regression models within a generalized estimating equation were employed to examine the associations between the PGT and each outcome measure and the approach of false discovery rate was used to correct for multiple comparisons.

Results

After controlling for confounding factors and correcting for multiple comparisons, no statistically significant difference was identified in any of the measured variables between the PGT children and children conceived by IVF alone (IVF children) and children conceived through IVF using ICSI (ICSI children). The same is true also for age- or sex-based subgroup analyses.

Conclusion

Between the ages of 1 and 5 years, there are no clinically adverse metabolic outcomes observed in PGT children, and their metabolic profiles are essentially identical to those of IVF children and ICSI children.
Facilitating accessible, rapid, and appropriate processing of ancient metagenomic data with AMDirT
Authors: Borry Maxime , Forsythe Adrian , Andrades Valtueña Aida , Hübner Alexander , Ibrahim Anan , Quagliariello Andrea , White Anna E. , Kocher Arthur , Vågene‬ Åshild J. , Bartholdy Bjørn Peare , Spurīte Diāna , Ponce-Soto Gabriel Yaxal , Neumann Gunnar , Huang I-Ting , Light Ian , Velsko Irina M. , Jackson Iseult , Frangenberg Jasmin , Serrano Javier G. , Fumey Julien , Özdoğan Kadir T. , Blevins Kelly E. , Daly Kevin G. , Lopopolo Maria , Moraitou Markella , Michel Megan , van Os Meriam , Bravo-Lopez Miriam J. , Sarhan Mohamed S. , Dagtas Nihan D. , Oskolkov Nikolay , Smith Olivia S. , Lebrasseur Ophélie , Rozwalak Piotr , Eisenhofer Raphael , Wasef Sally , Ramachandran Shreya L. , Vanghi Valentina , Warinner Christina , Fellows Yates James A.
Published: May 2024

Background Access to sample-level metadata is important when selecting public metagenomic sequencing datasets for reuse in new biological analyses. The Standards, Precautions, and Advances in Ancient Metagenomics community (SPAAM, https://spaam-community.org) has previously published AncientMetagenomeDir, a collection of curated and standardised sample metadata tables for metagenomic and microbial genome datasets generated from ancient samples. However, while sample-level information is useful for identifying relevant samples for inclusion in new projects, Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) library construction and sequencing metadata are also essential for appropriately reprocessing ancient metagenomic data. Currently, recovering information for downloading and preparing such data is difficult when laboratory and bioinformatic metadata is heterogeneously recorded in prose-based publications. Methods Through a series of community-based hackathon events, AncientMetagenomeDir was updated to provide standardised library-level metadata of existing and new ancient metagenomic samples. In tandem, the companion tool 'AMDirT' was developed to facilitate rapid data filtering and downloading of ancient metagenomic data, as well as improving automated metadata curation and validation for AncientMetagenomeDir. Results AncientMetagenomeDir was extended to include standardised metadata of over 6000 ancient metagenomic libraries. The companion tool 'AMDirT' provides both graphical- and command-line interface based access to such metadata for users from a wide range of computational backgrounds. We also report on errors with metadata reporting that appear to commonly occur during data upload and provide suggestions on how to improve the quality of data sharing by the community. Conclusions Together, both standardised metadata reporting and tooling will help towards easier incorporation and reuse of public ancient metagenomic datasets into future analyses.
Exploring the acceptance of robotic assisted surgery among the Indian population: An empirical investigation
Authors: Nayak Smitha , Nayak Vinod C. , G. S. Sathvika
Published: May 2024

Background Technology has completely transformed healthcare, starting with X-ray machines and MRIs to telehealth and robotic surgeries to e-health records. The launch of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) serves as a milestone in medical history, offering benefits such as smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery, making it a preferred surgical option. This study mainly explores patients’ willingness to adopt robot-assisted surgery (RAS) technology in a surgical intervention and is assessed in the backdrop of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Methods This research project employs a post-positivist research philosophy and a cross-sectional research design. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data from 280 respondents. Results The results revealed that trust had a significant impact on Perceived Usefulness (β = 0.099) and Perceived Ease of Use (β = .157), and eHealth literacy had a significant impact on Perceived Ease of Use (β = 0.438) and Perceived Usefulness (β = 0.454). Additionally, Perceived Usefulness partially influenced behavioral intention (β = 0.123), and attitude had a significant influence on behavioral intention (β = 0.612). The analysis revealed an insignificant impact of eHealth literacy on Perceived Usefulness (β = 0.067). The Standard Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR) value was <0.8. Mediation analysis also revealed partial mediation between the constructs. The SRMR rating of this model is 0.067, indicating that it fits the data well. Conclusion This study revealed that a patient's intention will be high if he or she believes that RAS is beneficial in treating his or her ailment. In comparison, information related to RAS is clearly known, and it does not directly affect selection intention. eHealth literacy is a significant antecedent to patients’ behavioral intention. Hence, the healthcare industry must devise strategies to promote the acceptance of RAS at all levels.
Length-weight relationship and condition factor of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fed diets supplemented with guava and star gooseberry leaf extract
Authors: Kamble Manoj Tukaram , Salin Krishna Rugmini , Chavan Balasaheb Ramdas , Medhe Seema Vijay , Thompson Kim D. , Pirarat Nopadon
Published: May 2024

Background Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is predominant cultured species in aquaculture. However, there is a scarcity of literature regarding relationship between guava and star gooseberry leaf extract and the condition factor. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the effect of guava and star gooseberry leaf extract-supplemented diets on the specific growth rate, length-weight relationship, and condition factor of Nile tilapia. Methods Six hundred and thirty Nile tilapia (8.7±0.4 g) were randomly distributed among twenty-one tanks (30 fish per tank) within a recirculation system. Over a 60-day period, the fish were fed diets supplemented with 5g/Kg and 10g/Kg of guava leaf extract (GLE-5, GLE-10), star gooseberry leaf extract (SGLE-5, SGLE-10), and a mixture of both (MxLE-5, MXLE-10). Subsequently, specific growth rate, length-weight relationship, and condition factor were determined. Results After 60 days, the specific growth rate was significantly higher in all the GLE, SGLE, and MxLE groups compared to the control group. The final lengths and weights differed significantly both in the control group and all the GLE, SGLE, and MxLE groups. The analysis of the regression equation indicated a positive correlation (r = 0.970, 0.977, 0.976, 0.974, 0.974, 0.974, and 0.969) between the length and weight of Nile tilapia in the control group and in all the GLE, SGLE, and MxLE groups. The regression exponent "b" values in all the GLE, SGLE, and MxLE groups were >3, indicating a positive allometric growth pattern in Nile tilapia compared to the control (b=2.866), which exhibited a negative allometry. The final condition factor values did not differ significantly in either the control group or any of the plant extract groups. Conclusions Nile tilapia exhibited positive allometric growth patterns and maintained good health when fed with GLE, SGLE, and MxLE groups. Therefore, these plant extracts demonstrate suitability for commercial Nile tilapia production.
Clinical presentation and radiologic imaging findings of phyllodes tumors: benign and borderline/malignant phyllodes tumors
Authors: Lohitvisate Wanrudee , Rodjanakonkiat Kanitta , Kwankua Amolchaya
Published: May 2024

Background Phyllodes tumor is a rare fibroepithelial neoplasm of the breast, which is classified histologically as benign, borderline, or malignant. Accurate preoperative diagnosis allows the correct surgical planning and reoperation avoidance. Objective To describe the clinical presentation and radiologic features of phyllodes tumors and differentiate between benign and non-benign (borderline and malignant) groups. Methods A retrospective study of 57 patients with a diagnosis of phyllodes tumor who had preoperative imaging (mammography, ultrasound, or CT chest) and histological confirmation. The data was collected from 1 June 2011 to 30 September 2021. The imaging features of the phyllodes tumors were described according to the 5th edition of the ACR BI-RADS lexicon. For comparing between two groups, the student t-test, Wilcoxon rank sum test, Chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analyses. The logistic regression analysis was calculated for non-benign phyllodes tumor prediction. Results From 57 patients, the pathologic results were benign for 43 cases and non-benign phyllodes tumors for 14 cases. There was no differentiation of mammographic and CT features between benign and non-benign groups. Non-benign phyllodes tumors had the statistical significance of menopausal status, entire breast involvement, tumor size larger than 10 cm, and heterogeneous echo on univariable analysis. After multivariable analysis, menopausal status (odd ratios=13.79, p=0.04) and presence of vessels in the rim (odd ratios=16.51, p=0.019) or absent vascularity (odd ratios=8.45, p=0.047) on doppler ultrasound were significantly increased possibility of non-benign phyllodes tumor. Conclusions Menopausal status and presence of vessels in the rim or absent vascularity on Doppler ultrasound were important predictors for the diagnosis of non-benign phyllodes tumor.
Case Report: Mercury-induced renal autoimmunity – An insight into its pathogenesis
Authors: C Shetty Bhushan , Yadiyal B Muralidhara , Bhat M Ashok
Published: May 2024

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in adults. It may be idiopathic or due to secondary causes. Among the secondary causes, heavy metals like mercury are the one among others. Here is a male with nil comorbidities who, upon exposure to mercury-containing skin cream, developed proteinuria, which, on evaluation, was found to have dual renal lesions like membranous nephropathy and chronic interstitial nephritis. The uniform PLA2R staining within the glomerular capillary walls shows the ability of mercury to induce inflammation and autoimmunity. This case strengthens the findings of in vitro studies about mercury-induced inflammatory processes.
Accounting Policy As the Main Tool for Optimizing Tax Payments in Agricultural Holding Companies
Authors: Ermakova Mariya
Published: May 2024

The features of taxation of agricultural enterprises are considered. The characteristic features of an agricultural holding as an object of taxation are listed. The necessity of tax optimization in the companies forming it is justified. The possibilities of accounting policy from the point of view of tax optimization are considered. It is proposed to improve the methodological elements of accounting policy for the purposes of tax optimization of agricultural holding companies.