Medicine Group (73) at IgMin Research

This editorial aims to highlight the critical intersections of patient care and technology, as illustrated in our recent article collection and addresses urgent challenges posed by global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic while exploring broader themes such as personalized medicine, ethical practices, and the nutritional impacts on health. This diverse range of research highlights the necessity of interdisciplinary approaches to address the complexities of modern healthcare.

Background: Low Back Pain (LBP) is one of the most common diseases affecting many persons including Healthcare Professionals (HCPs). LBP affects the quality of work and daily activities in HCPs. However, many factors contribute to LBP including age, Body Mass Index (BMI) and working experience. Purpose: The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of LBP and examine the potential risk factors associated with LBP in Chinese HCPs (surgeons and surgical nurses). Method: A cross-sectional survey performed from October 2023 to ...January 2024. Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS) was used to assess the rating of LBP impairment. As well as Ovako Working Posture Assessment System (OWAS) is used to assess the working postures of HCPs. In addition to five more questions with yes/no answers.Results: A total of 250 surgeons and surgical nurses were collected from six hospitals with a mean age of 45.8 ± 11.0 years old, 47 females and 203 males. The BMI was 25.07 ± 1.49 kg, and working experience was 20.30 ± 10.0 years. Working hours in a week range from < 50 to > 55 hours. However, the OWAS action category was 1 in 109, 2 in 107, 3 in 30, and 4 in 4 participants. The majority of participants with mild LBP (90.4%), half of them had neck pain, and 26% with knee pain. The QBPDS scores of HCPs with LBP were 10.88 ± 4.78. Moreover, the risk factors associated with LBP include long working hours and incorrect postures of the trunk and lower extremities. As well as notice the orthopedic surgeon was the highest risk among HCPs (p = 0.046, 0.005).Conclusion: LBP is a common disorder in surgeons and surgical nurses and is associated with different factors including age, work experience, BMI, and abnormal working posture.Read more

With the development of safe blood supply and transfusion comes the introduction of quality as a culture, implemented through the introduction of a Quality System (QS) and Quality Management System (QMS). Often the idea is that– ‘when instructions are written (SOPs) a quality system is in place. Just follow the instructions, that is it.’ However, quality only partly depends on following instructions at the operational level. Generally not understood is the importance of designing and implementing a quality management system, b...ased on 5 key elements 1) organization and structure; 2) standards (technical and quality); 3) documentation - traceability and evidence; 4) education - continued teaching and training; 5) assessment - continued monitoring and evaluation.Development and implementation of an appropriate quality system and management were evaluated for 15 developing countries (2004-2020) in 4 WHO regions. Projects were based on a step-by-step introduction to the concept and principles of quality following a Quality Management Training (QMT) course – modular, interactive, with improvement score evaluation focused on comprehension and ownership of the teaching and training contents.For an optimal understanding of the values of quality in Transfusion Medicine (TM), a culture has to be created - ownership development, commitment to and implementation of the principles of fitness for purpose, and the supplier-producer-customer continuum.Read more

Background: There is an increasing focus on communication between doctors and patients, and recent systematic reviews argue that teaching doctors necessary communication skills benefits patients at large. Moreover, patients report the lack of communication as their second-leading complaint. Motivational interviewing has proved to be person-centered in healthcare in communication between patients and doctors.Aim: To examine how being inspired by motivational interviewing theory and using the Calgary Cambridge guide could improve medical students...' communication skills at the master level using a mixed-method approach.Methods: A cohort study with an exposed cohort compared to a non-exposed historical cohort. The participants were students in their sixth year of medical training from the Clinical Department of the University of Southern Denmark. The non-exposed cohort received laboratory training based on the Calgary Cambridge Guide. After this training, they participated in a two-month clinical "stay" and recorded two digital audio files of a real conversation with a patient about delivering information. The exposed cohort followed the same schedule but received additional special training in MI. All audio files were analyzed using the Motivational Interviewing Integrity method (MITI). An additional focus group interview was conducted to support the results.Results: Medical students demonstrated improvements in several essential areas of their communication style favorable to the MI approach, particularly empathy, and person-centeredness. The focus group interviews supported these findings.Read more

Clitoromegaly, defined as an enlarged clitoris with a clitoral index of more than 35 mm2 is a frequently seen congenital malformation but an idiopathic entity is a rare one. The most acceptable method of treatment of clitoromegaly is clitoroplasty with preservation of neurovascular pedicle to glans to achieve normal genital anatomy and to preserve tactile sensation. We present a rare case of idiopathic clitoromegaly managed by dorsal nerve sparing reduction clitoroplasty in an HBsAg-positive patient. 

Study objective: Adolescent females are disproportionately affected by Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Endocervical Gram stain smears taken during gynecological examination are inexpensive, relatively easy procedures to perform and interpret. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the performance characteristics of Gram smears in the diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) in a female adolescent population presenting to the Emergency Department (ED) with genitourinary complai...nts.Methods: This study was a retrospective, cohort analysis of consecutive females (ages 13 – 19) seen at three academic medical centers over a two-year study period. All patients underwent a pelvic exam with diagnostic testing for STIs. Positive criteria for a Gram stain included greater than ten white blood cells per high-power field, gram-negative intracellular/extracellular diplococci (suggesting GC), or direct visualization of TV organisms. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays were used as the gold standard definition for CT/GC infection. Direct microscopic visualization of organisms on a separate wet mount prep was considered the gold standard for TV infection. Demographic information, clinical findings of cervicitis, and the results of diagnostic testing were obtained from ED records using standardized abstraction forms. Results: During the study period, 1303 adolescent females were evaluated for genitourinary complaints. A total of 181 adolescents (12.9%) had at least one documented STI. Overall, 298 patients (22.9%) had positive gram stains. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio for Gram stain in the diagnosis of STI were 28.7% (95% CI, 22.2 to 35.9), 78.1% (95% CI, 75.5 to 80.5), and 1.31 (95% CI 1.0 to 1.7), respectively. The sensitivity of Gram stain to Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Trichomonas vaginalis were 35.9% (95% CI 26.8 to 45.8), 34.5% (95% CI 18.0 to 54.3), and 5.7% (95% CI 1.3 to 15.7), respectively. The consistency of the data recording was excellent, with a median kappa statistic of 0.89.Conclusions: The positive likelihood ratio of inflammation on endocervical Gram stain is too low to recommend its use to direct empiric treatment of adolescents at risk for sexually transmitted infections. Diagnostic uncertainty or treatment failures should prompt specific laboratory testing. Read more

Purpose: Photo-documentation is a critical component of care and an indispensable skill for forensic clinicians treating patients who have experienced violence and trauma. This retrospective study examines the frequency and nature of anogenital injuries identified through colposcope digital imaging in comparison to those detected using a high-resolution camera system.Methods: This retrospective, before-and-after study evaluated genital injuries in all adult women (over 16 years old) who presented to a freestanding Nurse Examiner Clinic (NEC) fo...llowing sexual assault during a 3-year period. The clinic is supervised by forensic clinicians trained in conducting medical-forensic examinations. In 2016-2017, all injuries were documented using the Cooper Surgical Leisegang© colposcope system, while in 2018, injuries were recorded exclusively with a high-resolution camera system. The primary outcome was the frequency of genital findings documented in sexual assault victims from each group.Results: A total of 367 women were evaluated in the "before" period and 180 in the "after" period. Both groups were similar in terms of demographics, assault history, time to examination, alcohol use, and the occurrence of genital injuries (76.1% vs. 74.9%, p = 0.76). However, patients examined with the high-resolution camera system had a significantly higher number of documented anogenital injuries (2.4 vs. 1.8, p < 0.001). This group also had more anogenital abrasions identified (51.1% vs. 27.0%, p < 0.001). The injury patterns between the two groups were not statistically different.Conclusion: Accurate and reliable photo documentation are the key components of forensic medical documentation. Our findings indicate that the detection of anogenital injuries may differ based on the imaging system used.Read more

This study investigates the supplementation practices among fitness trainers in Istanbul, focusing on their experiences with supplements aimed at enhancing recovery and endurance. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research involved a structured survey of 20 fitness trainers, gathering quantitative data on supplementation habits and qualitative feedback on their effectiveness. The results highlight trainers' widespread use of Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs), whey protein, creatine, pre-workout supplements, and L-carnitine to support mus...cle recovery and endurance during intense training sessions. The findings underscore the importance of these supplements in fitness trainers' routines, enabling them to sustain high training volumes and avoid overtraining. Additionally, the study reveals the role of ZMA in improving sleep quality, thereby enhancing recovery and overall performance. This research provides valuable insights into how these supplements contribute to trainers' overall fitness and performance, offering practical recommendations for optimizing physical capabilities.Read more

Erysipelas is a superficial cutaneous process that is usually restricted to the dermis, but with prominent lymphatic involvement commonly caused by streptococci. Here, we report an unusual case of primary gangrenous-phlegmonous erysipelas of the face with necrosis of the upper eyelid. Diagnosing facial erysipelas in this case was particularly challenging due to the atypical clinical and laboratory features, possibly caused by secondary immunodeficiency. A unique aspect of this case is that the disease started without the typical early symptoms,... such as a prodrome. The patient did not initially show signs of general intoxication but instead presented with a local skin lesion before developing a fever. The characteristic redness and distinct borders commonly associated with erysipelas were also absent. This case demonstrates primary erysipelas of the face in a gangrenous-phlegmonous form, resulting in the development of upper eyelid necrosis.Key clinical message: Recognizing atypical cases, such as the one presented, is of utmost importance. It is crucial for quick and adequate surgical and therapeutic intervention. This knowledge equips medical professionals with the necessary skills to handle similar situations in the future. The presented clinical case testifies the effectiveness of using A-PRF-membrane to prevent scar formation during wound healing.Read more

Recent advancements in computer-assisted surgical navigation have enhanced imaging precision while reducing fluoroscopy reliance. However, integrating these systems into outpatient interventional pain practices remains costly. This paper investigates a cost-effective Augmented Reality (AR) navigation system tailored for image-guided spinal pain procedures. We verify the feasibility of AR in spinal surgery and the potential of AR to replace fluoroscopy.

Mastocytosis, a hematological neoplasm, manifests with diverse clinical, molecular, and histomorphological features. This review explores the different subtypes of mastocytosis, focusing on the role of molecular pathology and histomorphology in diagnosing systemic mastocytosis (SM). Systemic mastocytosis is characterized by histologically confirmed extracutaneous involvement, presenting a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity and diverse subtypes, ranging from occult SM to mast cell leukemia. The complexity of accurate SM diagnosis underscores... the necessity for a comprehensive understanding of the disease spectrum. Mastocytosis emerges as a rare, multifaceted disease, predominantly affecting children in the cutaneous form and adults in the systemic variant. The review advocates a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach involving experienced hematopathologists and haematooncologists, employing conventional histomorphology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular techniques. This holistic approach is crucial for accurate diagnosis, especially in light of recent therapeutic advances, particularly the growing importance of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in the management of mastocytosis.Read more

Interpersonal and intrapersonal face variation interference caused by multiple poses is challenging for distance-based face recognition systems. In this paper, we investigate the face-feature distance distribution for Chinese multi-pose faces. The simulation shows that the number of individuals in the gallery database will greatly affect the recognition performance for near-profile face images. It also provides a prediction of the Top-N occurrence rates in different gallery-size environments.

Background: Levetiracetam is an anti-epileptic drug that works by modulation of synaptic neurotransmitter release through binding to the synaptic vesicle protein 2A. Levetiracetam is generally well tolerated. Common side effects of levetiracetam include lethargy, drowsiness, headaches, and mood changes. Rhabdomyolysis and an increase in Creatine Kinase (CK) levels are one of the rarely reported effects of levetiracetam.Case presentation: We present a case of a 20-year-old patient with previously known epilepsy (non-compliant with medicine) who ...presented with a seizure. The patient was given 1 gram of levetiracetam in the emergency department and was kept at a maintenance dose of 500 mg twice a day. The workup revealed acute kidney injury and raised levels of creatinine kinase that peaked at 19,757 IU/L 72 hours after levetiracetam was started. Levetiracetam was later switched to lamotrigine and aggressive intravenous hydration was done. Gradual improvement of CK level was noted accompanied by improvement in renal function.Conclusion: Only a few cases of levetiracetam-induced rhabdomyolysis have been reported worldwide. Our case report highlights the importance of monitoring creatinine and CK levels while treating patients with levetiracetam as rhabdomyolysis can be asymptomatic with a rise in CK levels only.Read more

The agricultural sector is a large consumer of synthetic chemical products, especially fertilizers and plant protection products. Therefore, an emerging concern nowadays is to reduce chemicals’ use in agriculture. One of the approaches is to reduce the doses of plant protection products, as much as possible, while keeping the treatments’ efficacy. The present work presents the antifungal action of three commercial plant protection products, tested at recommended as well as reduced doses, against important phytopathogenic molds of th...e Fusarium genus. In vitro, results have shown that two of the tested products could be used at reduced doses while keeping their antifungal activity. The commercial pesticide containing prothioconazole 53 g/L, spiroxamine 224 g/L, and tebuconazole 148 g/L mixture was able to inhibit completely the growth of three virulent F. culmorum strains, even when fungicide treatment was applied in 25% reduced dose. Lower efficacy was seen on F. graminearum strains, however, there were no significant differences (p < 0.05) between the commercially recommended dose and the 25% reduced dose. Another efficient pesticide in Fusarium control contains triadimenol 43 g/L, spiroxamine 250 g/L, and tebuconazole 167 g/L. Tested in a reduced dose (28.6% less than the commercial recommended dose) it completely inhibited the F. graminearum Fg183 (DSM 4527) strain and inhibited the growth of various F. culmorum strains with at least 97.50% efficacy. However, there are some fungal strains, such as the aggressive F. graminearum Fg96 strains that were less susceptible to pesticide treatments even at commercially recommended doses of fungicides.Read more

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing healthcare by enhancing patient outcomes, reducing costs, and increasing the efficiency of medical professionals. This mini-review explores the diverse applications of AI in healthcare, including disease diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and patient survival rate predictions. AI technologies such as Machine Learning (ML), deep learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) are becoming integral to modern healthcare practices. These technologies enable earl...y disease detection, particularly in cases like cancer, by analyzing medical images and patient data, leading to more effective and personalized treatment strategies. Additionally, AI can predict patient outcomes by analyzing large datasets from electronic health records, providing valuable insights that can inform clinical decisions. However, the integration of AI in healthcare also presents significant ethical challenges. Issues such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, lack of transparency, and the potential for increased health inequalities need to be addressed. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided guidelines emphasizing the ethical use of AI, highlighting the importance of designing AI systems that respect human rights and promote equity. As AI continues to advance, it is crucial to ensure its responsible and transparent use to maximize benefits and minimize risks. This review underscores the transformative potential of AI in healthcare while calling for vigilant ethical considerations to ensure that AI technologies are implemented in a manner that enhances patient care and upholds ethical standards.Read more

Risk is a variation of performance in the presence of events and it can negatively impact socioeconomic system of countries. Statistical evidence here shows that high public debt reduces health expenditures over time and increases the vulnerability and risk of European countries to face health emergencies, such as COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Overall, then, findings suggest that high public debt weakens healthcare and socioeconomic system of countries to cope with crises, such as COVID-19 pandemic, conflicts, natural disasters, etc. JEL Codes...: I18; H12; H51; H60; H63Read more

Introduction: Physical activity is a natural need of every human being, brings significant health benefits, and adapts the body to exertion. Lifestyle is based on conscious choices that affect health. Health-promoting activities such as regular physical activity, healthy and wholesome meals, adequate recovery, and stress reduction in daily life minimize the risk of future behavior. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Physical Activity (PA) and lifestyle of female students of the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) at the Tarnow Universit...y of Applied Sciences surveyed in February and March 2023. Among other things, the time, frequency, and places of physical activity were investigated, and did the physical activity and lifestyle of female students differ according to the field of study undertaken and between first- and fourth-year physiotherapy students?Methods: The survey was conducted among 167 female students of physiotherapy, physical education, nursing, and cosmetology at the FHS. Using a diagnostic survey, a questionnaire survey was conducted, the research tool was a survey questionnaire of our design, which included questions on physical activity, lifestyle, and sociodemographic data.Results: The results indicate that the female students led active and healthy lifestyles. The vast majority, more than 90%, of the female students surveyed were aware of how physical fitness and their health-promoting activities, as well as knowledge related to these issues, would be important in their future profession. Regarding the field of study and the physical activity undertaken, a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was shown, it was the female students from physical education who were the most active among all women.Conclusion: It can be concluded that the chosen field of study influences the declared health-promoting behavior of female students and that the physical activity undertaken and the healthy lifestyle are related to the choice of future profession, while the field of study and the year of the study did not differentiate the lifestyle of female students.Read more

Teledentistry, the use of telecommunication technology to provide dental care and consultation remotely, has gained significant traction in recent years, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This article explores the various applications, benefits, challenges, and future directions of teledentistry in modern dental practice. Emphasis is placed on its role in improving access to care, enhancing patient education, and supporting dental professionals through remote consultations and collaborations.

Epidermolysis Bullosa Naevi (EBN) is a subset of melanocytic nevi with atypical features arising at sites of blistering in patients with congenital EB. It may be clinically misdiagnosed as melanoma and may represent a challenge for the dermatologist. Bullous Pemphigoid (BP) consists of an autoimmune condition presenting with subepidermal blisters, usually affecting the elderly and rarely observed in children The case is reported of an infant who presented with pruritic erythematous bullous lesions, initially appearing over the trunk and legs wi...th progression to arms and face. Clinical and immunopathological features were consistent with the diagnosis of infant BP. In the course of the disease, he developed a pigmented heterogeneous macule with irregular contour and satellite-dotted lesions, located on the right flank. Dermoscopy revealed a regular pigmented network distributed in an agminated manner interspersed with areas of healthy skin. Due to its similarity to EBN, an expectant approach was carried out. The lesion regressed during the 24-month follow-up. To our knowledge, there is only one literature case report of a child who presented with EBN-like in a previous BP lesion. Our case reinforces the presence of atypical melanocytic nevi in bullous diseases. Knowing this type of lesion clinically and dermatoscopically in patients with bullous dermatoses may prevent unnecessary surgical procedures in children.Read more

It is extremely rare for an ugly wife to be killed by her husband because of her ugliness. The aim of this study is to draw inferences regarding the treatment of children and women who were disfigured or disabled during the Japanese Edo period.“Shiryo-Gedatsu Monogatari-Kikigaki”, reportage literature based on a true story was analyzed.Yoemon remarried Osugi, and her son Suke was born with an ugly face and unnatural legs. Yoemon hated Suke and urged Osugi to abandon Suke, and in the end, Osugi threw Suke into the river and killed hi...m. Yoemon and Osugi later had a daughter and named her Rui. Rui had a very similar appearance to Suke. Thus, the village people called her Kasane, saying that Suke was reborn. Kasane married Yagoro, who became the second Yoemon. Yoemon disliked Kasane for her ugly appearance, so he killed her by pushing her into the river and continued to take subsequent wives, but each of them died after marriage. After the sixth marriage, his only child, Kiku, was tormented by Kasane’s spirit. About the appearance of Kasane, Kiku said: “The woman named Kasane had black skin, one eye was rotten, her nose was crushed, her mouth was wide, her face was marred with boils, her hands were bent, and one leg was short. She had the appearance of a scary old woman, like I had never seen before.”Through this story, we learn that there has been widespread hatred for children or women with an ugly appearance.Read more

This article highlights that the main causes of global warming are related to the production of military weapons. It has also been analyzed geographically and geopolitically that changes in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere under the influence of anthropogenic factors are one of the important factors shaping the “greenhouse effect”.

This study examines the game skills of children aged 5-6 years participating in movement education programs. Given the crucial role of physical and cognitive skill development in early childhood, the study aims to explore how structured physical activities influence children’s motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social interactions. A descriptive survey model was employed involving 144 parents of children participating in movement education. The Game Skills Scale (GSS) was utilized to measure children’s game skills, and data were... analyzed using SPSS 25, with t-tests for pairwise comparisons and Pearson’s correlation coefficient applied to determine relationships between variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results indicate that the game skills of children participating in movement education are notably high, with no significant differences based on gender or age. Furthermore, the duration of participation in movement education did not significantly impact the children’s game skills. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating structured physical activity programs in early childhood education to promote comprehensive development. The study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the multifaceted benefits of movement education and providing insights for optimizing early childhood physical activity interventions.Read more

Introduction: Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) poses a significant threat to individuals with diabetes, leading to visual impairment and blindness if not promptly addressed. This study focuses on the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy among self-reported newly diagnosed diabetics.Material method: This is a prospective study on 200 self-reported newly diagnosed diabetics from April 2022 to May 2023. Patient data, including complaints, diabetes duration, family history, hypertension, and therapy details, were comprehensively analyzed. Complete Ocular ex...aminations including best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination, fundus examinations, and Fundus fluorescein angiography were done. Diabetic Retinopathy was graded using a modified ETDRS grading system. Laboratory investigations included complete blood count, fasting and postprandial blood sugar, lipid profile, renal function test, and Hb1AC levels, providing a thorough assessment of patients’ ocular and systemic health.Result: Out of the 200 diabetics, 43.5% had diabetic retinopathy, with a slightly higher prevalence in males (44.64%) compared to females. The age group 50 - 59 had the highest prevalence (74.19%), and Hindus, Muslims, and other communities showed comparable percentages. Family history and hypertension were significant factors, with 88% of those with a family history developing retinopathy. NPDR was predominant (87.35%), while 12.64% had PDR. Clinically Significant Macular Edema (CSME) was present in 59.77%, with 80.76% of these cases having concomitant hypertension. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the imperative for early detection and comprehensive management of diabetic retinopathy among newly diagnosed diabetics. Age, gender, family history, and hypertension emerge as crucial determinants, advocating for integrated care and targeted screening programs to safeguard vision.Read more

Most studies find lower live-delivered pregnancy rates (LDPRs) following in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) in women with diminished oocyte reserve (DOR) vs. normal oocyte reserve (NOR) even in a younger population. How much of a discrepancy may depend on the degree of oocyte depletion in the DOR group and the follicular stimulation protocol. Some fertility specialists favor an FSH receptor up-regulation technique as the protocol to attain the maximum LDPRs in women with DOR. The objective of this study was to compare chemical, cli...nical, and LDPRs following IVF-ET to determine if the main time of embryo loss is very early, as evidenced by the largest discrepancy occurring in attaining even a chemical pregnancy, and/ or a large discrepancy between a chemical pregnancy and attaining a clinical pregnancy (ultrasound evidence of a gestational sac) or later losses as evidenced by showing a greater loss rate from clinical evidence of pregnancy to live delivery in those with DOR compared to NOR. Overall, the DOR group, with a mean serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level of 0.42 ng/mL, had 50% as much chance to have an LDPR/transfer as women with NOR (AMH of 4.66) despite the same number of day 3 embryos transferred. The main reduction in LDPRs occurred from embryo transfer failing to attain a positive clinical pregnancy in the DOR group. The least discrepancy was from attaining a clinical pregnancy to live delivery. Thus, for NOR from positive pregnancy test 59% of this younger age group will have a live delivery vs. 50% for DOR. Thus, the reduction in LDPRS/transfer in young women with DOR vs. NOR seems mostly very early so the DOR group does not even attain a positive serum beta human chorionic gonadotropin level. This suggests that this inferiority in attaining a live delivery may be related to aneuploidy involving large chromosomes or a marked decrease in the mitochondrial DNA of the embryo.Read more

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the causal link between the use of statins, a type of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor, and the risk of developing malignant meningiomas, which are aggressive and recurrent tumors of the central nervous system with limited treatment options.Methods: Using Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis, the study explored the relationship between genetic variants related to the expression of lipid-lowering drug targets (HMGCR, PCSK9, NPC1L1, and APOB) and malignant meningiomas.... The analysis utilized data from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) databases, with a focus on the genetic homogeneity of the Finnish population. Instrumental variables for the MR analysis were derived from significant eQTLs for the mentioned drug targets.Results: The MR analysis found a significant association between genetic variants linked to HMGCR inhibitor (statin) exposure and a reduced risk of malignant meningiomas. Specifically, an increased expression of the HMGCR gene in the blood was associated with lower susceptibility to malignant meningiomas (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.57, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.05 - 6.31; p = 0.039). No significant associations were observed for other lipid-lowering drug targets.Conclusion: Preliminary evidence suggests that statin use may lower the risk of developing malignant meningiomas, indicating a potential therapeutic benefit for managing this type of cancer. However, further research, including clinical trials, is necessary to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms behind the protective effect of statins against malignant meningiomas.Read more

Background: Pancreatic tumors have a large diversity, with an increasing incidence and mortality. Although the diagnosis methods have improved in recent years, establishing a diagnosis and a histopathological type of pancreatic tumor can still pose a challenge. Aim: We propose to present a concise list of difficulties regarding the clinical, biological, and imagistic diagnosis of pancreatic tumors. Key information: The clinical manifestations of pancreatic tumors depend on their location and size, on the presence of metastatic lesions..., but the difficulty of orientation towards this diagnosis is determined by the fact that most lesions are asymptomatic or present in the early stages of non-specific symptoms. The usual biological parameters are non-specific in pancreatic tumors in the early stages, but studies are underway regarding a series of biomarkers, genetic micro-sequences, or inorganic nanomaterials that could be used in the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancers. An essential stage in the diagnosis of pancreatic tumors is represented by imaging investigations, which are associated with endoscopic and tumor biopsy procedures and can outline a picture regarding the presence of the tumor at the level of the pancreas, the relationship with the neighboring organs, the nature of the tumor and the histopathological type. There are a series of indications and limitations regarding each of these investigations, trying to develop various algorithms for the diagnosis of pancreatic tumors. Conclusion: The medical research conducted to develop new diagnostic procedures has the objective of ensuring an early diagnosis of pancreatic tumors, in a stage that offers the best chances of recovery for the patient.Read more

Epithelial ovarian cancer is one of the most common causes of cancer-related death in women. More than half of patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, usually due to the locoregional spread of peritoneal carcinomatosis. We present the case of a 49-year-old woman who suffered from constitutional syndrome and abdominal distention. The imaging tests revealed two large, vascularized, and heterogeneous masses that depended on both ovaries. Bilateral adnexectomy was performed and the result of the anatomopathological study was endometrioid carci...noma moderately differentiated. The patient was treated according to the latest recommendations of the NCCN guidelines. A combination of systemic chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery has been the standard treatment since the mid-1990s. However, a combination of hyperthermic intravenous and intraperitoneal chemotherapy may reduce plasma toxicity and increase therapeutic effectiveness.Read more

We contrast three very distinct mathematical approaches to the hard problem of consciousness: quantum consciousness, integrated information theory, and the very large-scale dynamical systems simulation of a network of networks. We highlight their features and their associated hypotheses, and we discuss how they are aligned or in conflict. We suggest some challenges to these theories, in considering how they might apply to the human brain as it develops both cognitive and conscious sophistication, from infancy to adulthood. We indicate how an ev...olutionary perspective challenges the distinct approaches to aver performance advantages and physiological surrogates for consciousness.Read more

Background: Rectal toxicity is an important side effect of prostate cancer irradiation affecting 25% of patients. The role of dosimetric variables has a set of dose-volume constraints and curves to estimate the risk of rectal damage. The rectum position at the time of CT planning is different from the position during radiotherapy. Three methods are available to achieve optimal rectum position: enema; prostate cancer spacer; fiber-/fat-free diet. Methods: A 70.2 Gray radiation divided into 26 hypo-fractions was administered to 115 patients ...with prostate cancer by VMAT referred to a single center in Italy. To empty the rectum, all patients were administered a fiber-/fat-free diet and those with Eating Disorders (ED) were also added with activated charcoal (2 tablets/day) and a macrogol-based medical device (2 sachets/day). During treatment, the volumetric amount of rectum in the target was measured by comparing control-CT with simulation-CT, and acute toxicity was also checked. Results: The rectum position during control-CT in diet-only patients (29) predicted toxicity recorded during treatment, while in the ED group rectum position was adherent to position during simulations. Rectal volume target > 0.25 cc receiving a dose > V70 caused acute G3 toxicity that attenuated or worsened with rectal displacement. Acute rectal toxicity occurred in 6/29 (20.68%) patients (1 G3, 5 G1) in the diet-only group, while only in 1/86 (1.16%) patients (G1) in the ED group. No chronic toxicity was recorded in either group. Conclusion: Prostate cancer patients treated with VMAT, diet, charcoal, and macrogol emptied the rectum optimally and reduced incidence and severity of acute rectal toxicity, also with benefit on late toxicity.Read more

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women worldwide. It can be spread when cancer cells get into the blood or lymph system and then are carried to other parts of the body. As it is one of the leading causes of death among women, this study aims to identify the most relevant risk factors for breast cancer through several prevention methods for early detection. The social impact of breast cancer is so strong that the World Health Organization (WHO) has established 19 October as International Breast Cancer Day. The pink ribbon is th...e symbol of this important day worldwide. The objective is precisely to raise awareness among the population about the disease and promote access to timely and effective diagnoses, checks, and treatments.Good prevention should be carried out through behavior or lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, physical activity, alcohol limitation, etc.). Although, certain risk factors cannot be modified (e.g., aging, family history). Screenings are a fundamental tool to deal with breast cancer, even if sometimes they are not enough as in the case of interval cancers or in cases of particularly ambiguous presentation. Worldwide organizations recommend screening by means of ultrasound, mammography, and magnetic resonance, with appropriate follow-up for an abnormal screening test. To avoid overdiagnosis and overtreatment that can lead to long-term complications and false negatives, these screening differs by recommended ages and frequency. Identification of women at risk for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations is also recommended with a referral for genetic testing and, in the presence of dubious lesions, a biopsy is needed. In order to fight this disease, is important to act on time, so, information is fundamental. First of all, the female population should be conscious of risk factors and of the importance of breast examinations from a young age, lastly, they should be aware of the possibility of joining programs of free screening.Read more

Incisional acute wounds of the skin are characterized by a rapid biomechanical response by stromal cell contraction that joins the wound lips through the fibrin cloth. In this work, we have performed an in vitro model using Fibroblast-Populated Collagen Lattices (FPCLs) that partially mimic that physiological process. Injured FPCLs under relaxed or stressed conditions were evaluated over time, and cross-sections of the lattices were stained with picrosirius red. Wounds filled with fibrin in relaxed FPCLs were closed earlier than controls, the f...ibrillar pattern of the collagen lattice was different between the wound and the edges of the lattice. On the other hand, stressed FPCLs did not close wounds, even those filled with fibrin, because the tension generated from the lattice borders maintained high tension towards the wound. Controls or fibrin-treated stressed FPCLs, showed high tension in the wound matrix, characterized by the high packing of collagen observed like yellow-red birefringent fibers when stained by picrosirius red. Despite wounds that remain open, fibrin-treated FPCLs exhibited less wound area than controls. With this work, we have demonstrated that FPCL models can be used to study wound closure, mainly when they are improved with other elements of the wound environment that allow us to analyze the biological process.Read more

This study explores the repercussions of excessive reliance on Artificial Intelligence (AI) on human cognitive processes, specifically targeting problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making. Employing qualitative semi-structured interviews and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), it delves into the nuanced challenges and risks stemming from an overemphasis on AI. The research illuminates a nuanced landscape: while AI streamlines problem-solving tasks and provides valuable support, there’s a crucial need to safeguard human j...udgment and intuition. In the realm of creativity, divergent viewpoints emerge, underscoring concerns regarding AI’s potential limitations and advocating for a harmonious interplay between AI-generated suggestions and individual creative thought. Regarding decision-making, participants recognize AI’s utility but underscore the necessity of blending AI insights with critical thinking and consideration of unique circumstances. They caution against complacency, advocating for a judicious equilibrium between AI guidance and individual expertise. This study innovates by providing multifaceted insights into the complexities of AI-human interaction, uncovering nuanced perspectives on its impacts across problem-solving, creativity, and decision-making domains. By bridging this gap, it advances understanding of how AI integration influences cognitive processes, offering practical implications for fostering a balanced approach. Its innovative methodology combines qualitative interviews and IPA, offering rich, nuanced data that provide a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This research serves as a beacon for promoting awareness of the risks associated with overreliance on AI, advocating for a mindful integration that upholds human agency while leveraging AI capabilities effectively.Read more

Maize stem borer (Chilo Partellus), poses a substantial threat to maize crops all over the world, causing damage that ranges from 26.7% to 80.4%. Its destructive impact includes killing the shoot in young plants, leading to a “dead heart,” and damaging the upper stem in older plants through boring activity. To combat this issue, a field experiment evaluated various insect growth regulators (IGRs) such as Lufenuron®, Pyriproxyfen®, Sitara®, Viper®, Track®, and Priority®. These IGRs, known as reduced-risk pesti...cides, target pest juveniles and are less harmful to beneficial insects. Conducted through a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 24 treatments, excluding a control group, the study recorded maize stem borer populations at 3, 7, and 14 days post-IGR application. In conclusion, the study identifies pyriproxyfen® and Priority® at double the standard concentrations as highly effective insect growth regulators in mitigating maize stem borer infestations, offering promising avenues for enhanced pest control strategies in maize cultivation.Read more

Smooth muscle tumours are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the vulva and vagina, yet their infrequency is demonstrated by the prevalence of published reports as individual cases or small case series.This article reports a case of a 42-year-old woman who presented with apparently recurrent vulvovaginal leiomyoma and a past history of surgical excisions. Histopathology revealed Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP).

Background: Firefighters are subject to a variety of stressors, hence the importance of equipping them with resources that contribute to the management of these stressors. Aims: Considering that a healthy lifestyle is one of these resources, this study aimed to characterize the lifestyle of a Portuguese firefighters sample, rate their general lifestyle level, and analyze its association with their subjective well-being (i.e., flourishing). Methods: A sample of 860 firefighters responded to an adapted version of the FANTASTIC. Res...ults: The results showed that most (72.8%) had a good lifestyle. However, regarding each habit, a significant percentage had bad habits: sometimes consuming high-calorie foods (81.2%); sometimes having difficulties sleeping (50.9%); drinking more than 4 - 5 alcoholic drinks on the same occasion (43.9%); and exceeding their ideal weight by more than 8 kg (29.7%). However, a marked percentage also had healthy habits: having people to talk to (71%) and giving and receiving affection (63.5%); exercising at least once a week (81.5%); not smoking (63.9%); almost always eating healthily (26.7%); sometimes sleeping well (50.2%); and managing stress (56.7%). As expected, the assumption that firefighters’ lifestyle is related to their flourishing was supported. Conclusion: A healthy lifestyle is an important resource to ensure the firefighters’ flourishing and should be a part of the day-to-day life of these professionals.Read more

Post-stroke aphasia and hand movement dysfunction are common and disabling conditions. Observations indicate that most patients with post-stroke aphasia also suffer from hand movement dysfunction. Research in human evolution, behavior, and neuroscience has revealed a strong connection between language function and hand-motor function, with the latter playing a critical role in language use. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of new, comprehensive, and efficient rehabilitation methods for post-stroke aphasia that is accomp...anied by hand dysfunction. One promising approach involves investigating the shared neural networks between language and hand function as a foundation for novel treatment methods. This article aims to review the current state of clinical research on comprehensive treatments for stroke-induced aphasia and hand dysfunction, as well as to explore their underlying neural mechanisms. The results of this study may provide a valuable reference for the advancement of treatment technologies that effectively address both dysfunctions and enhance clinical outcomes.Read more

For me personally, high technologies in pediatrics are not just new opportunities for solving regular professional problems.

This study examined upper limb kinematics under simulated visually impaired conditions. By investigating how upper limb movements adapt in these circumstances, we aimed to gain insights that may prove valuable for both healthy populations and those with clinical conditions. Data, including 3D marker-based motion capture and accelerometer readings, were collected from seven healthy volunteers walking on a treadmill at 1.5 m/s under two conditions: without glasses (NG) and with stroboscopic glasses (G). Each walking condition lasted 2 minutes, an...d two 10-second recordings were analyzed from the midpoint of each session. Contrary to our hypothesis, simulated visual impairment with stroboscopic eyewear at 6Hz did not statistically affect upper limb kinematics, specifically in terms of wrist acceleration and hand distance in the frontal plane. Future research should explore varied visual impairment conditions, extend task durations, and investigate the relationship between subjective gait difficulties and biomechanical data.Read more

Since time immemorial, Indigenous communities have always perceived the landscape as a complex web of living, physical, and spiritual things. These communities have always relied on their Indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), emphasizing ancestral burial grounds, mountains, caves, rivers, pools, forests, monuments, and other cultural diacritics as symbols of place identity. In addition, myriad metaphors like taboos, legends, tales, folklore, myths, proverbs, stories, and practices, also constituted an integral part of Indigenous cultural and natu...re connections. This heritage was constantly imagined and configured to cement human-nature relations. However, the advent of colonialism severely violated this status quo, thereby causing deep environmental, political, and social crises. Through imposing a hegemonic scientific paradigm, knowledge compartmentalization, and capitalist aggrandizing practices, the original harmonious human-nature praxis premised on IKS was disrupted. To this day, the exclusionary colonial legacy and poisoned ‘sense of place’ remains our greatest threat to climate and environmental stability. Thus, this paper advocates for the recentralization of IKS as a valid way of knowing with already inbuilt human and natural disaster management solutions. By pivoting Rozvi narratives premised on five mountains, namely; Manyanga in Bubi district, Mavangwe, MunwewaMwari and Bepe in Buhera district, and Mutikwiri in Maungwe near Rusape town, all situated in former Butua/Guruuswa regions of Zimbabwe as case studies, the power of ancient wisdom as a holistic epistemic approach towards sustainable human-nature relations is explicated.Read more

Economists often provide predictions about future interest or policy rates. In contrast to stock market predictions, these forecasts are typically regarded seriously and presented with a degree of accuracy. This paper explores whether placing more confidence in policy rate predictions than stock market predictions is reasonable. It begins by examining historical policy rates predictions in Sweden, comparing them to actual rates to assess their accuracy. The paper then delves into the discussion of how costs of mispredictions, such as sudden and... unexpected policy rate increases, can and should be addressed. Despite the Central Bank making predictions within confidence intervals and the banking sector regulating individuals’ borrowing, the burden of unpredicted rate increases falls almost entirely on individuals. The paper addresses whether that is reasonable.Read more

This research reveals the previously unexplored pharmacognostic potential of antidepressants found in nutrients derived from both legume and animal sources. Through preclinical investigations involving mouse models, the study focused into antidepressant and antioxidant activities of non-denatured and denatured protein extracts from beans and eggs. Non-denatured protein extracts from beans and eggs, at saturation levels of 40% and 80%, were examined as macronutrients, while denatured protein extracts at equivalent saturation levels were consider...ed micronutrients. The study employed the DPPH and hydrogen peroxide tests to assess antioxidant activity, and the forced swimming test and sucrose preference test to evaluate acute and chronic mild antidepressant effects, respectively. The acute toxicity study revealed that macronutrients from eggs at 40% and 80% saturation displayed non-toxic effects (LD50 >5 g/kg), while those from beans, specifically at saturation of 80%, exhibited a relatively low level of toxicity (LD50 = 2.5 g/kg). Evaluation of antioxidant activity using the DPPH test yielded inconclusive results due to the influence of ethanol precipitation. In contrast, the H2O2 test demonstrated significant antioxidant potential in both macronutrients and micronutrients extracted from beans and eggs at all saturation levels. In investigating antidepressant properties, both macronutrients and micronutrients of bean and egg protein extracts at 40% and 80% saturation exhibited notable antidepressant effects, particularly the micronutrients at saturation of 80%. This antidepressant effect was characterized by a reduction in immobility time and an increase in sucrose preference.In conclusion, this study uncovers the multifaceted potential of protein extracts sourced from natural products, plant and animal origins, as agents for treating depression. It opens up new avenues for research, with implications ranging from neuroprotection to the management of depression, inspiring optimism for innovative approaches to mental health treatment.Read more