-
Cells Apr 2024The aim of this study was to review the current literature regarding the effects of intra-articularly applied, fat-derived orthobiologics (FDO) in the treatment of...
The aim of this study was to review the current literature regarding the effects of intra-articularly applied, fat-derived orthobiologics (FDO) in the treatment of primary knee osteoarthritis over a mid-term follow-up period. A systematic literature search was conducted on the online databases of Scopus, PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library. Studies investigating intra-articularly applied FDO with a minimum number of 10 knee osteoarthritis patients, a follow-up period of at least 2 years, and at least 1 reported functional parameter (pain level or Patient-Reported Outcome Measures) were included. Exclusion criteria encompassed focal chondral defects and techniques including additional arthroscopic bone marrow stimulation. In 28 of 29 studies, FDO showed a subjective improvement in symptoms (pain and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures) up to a maximum follow-up of 7.2 years. Radiographic cartilage regeneration up to 3 years postoperatively, as well as macroscopic cartilage regeneration investigated via second-look arthroscopy, may corroborate the favorable clinical findings in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The methodological heterogeneity in FDO treatments leads to variations in cell composition and represents a limitation in the current state of knowledge. However, this systematic review suggests that FDO injection leads to beneficial mid-term results including symptom reduction and preservation of the affected joint in knee osteoarthritis patients.
Topics: Humans; Adipose Tissue; Injections, Intra-Articular; Osteoarthritis, Knee; Transplantation, Autologous; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 38727286
DOI: 10.3390/cells13090750 -
JPRAS Open Jun 2024Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery (PRAS) is a significant yet often overlooked specialty in medical school curricula. The impact of social media and... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery (PRAS) is a significant yet often overlooked specialty in medical school curricula. The impact of social media and unregulated information sources can distort the perceptions of medical specialties, including PRAS, leading to a decline in student interest, inappropriate referrals and strain on healthcare services. This systematic review aimed to understand the perceptions of medical students towards PRAS, identify influencing factors and explore strategies to address these influences.
METHODS
The review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Four databases were searched, and the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Data from 17 relevant studies were analysed in Microsoft Excel using descriptive statistics. The risk of bias was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.
RESULTS
Medical students generally held positive perceptions about PRAS, particularly regarding career opportunities, specialised skills and the nature of the specialty. However, their awareness of the full scope of plastic surgery is limited, with a focus on cosmetic and aesthetic procedures. Social media and the internet significantly influenced the students' perceptions, whereas personal experiences had a minor impact. Education and training in plastic surgery positively affected the students' perceptions. Nevertheless, there is a need for improved representation of PRAS in medical school curricula and promotion of accurate information through reliable sources.
CONCLUSION
Students exhibited a favourable attitude towards plastic surgery, but their knowledge of the specialty can be enhanced. Strengthening PRAS teaching in medical schools and ensuring accurate information dissemination can foster a deeper understanding and interest in this field. Large-scale studies with standardised protocols should be conducted in different countries to gain comprehensive insights tailored to specific educational contexts.
PubMed: 38726047
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2024.04.003 -
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex... Jul 2024Microplastic (MP) contamination has been identified as a worrisome environmental issue at the global level. Fish are the taxonomic group more extensively investigated to...
Microplastic (MP) contamination has been identified as a worrisome environmental issue at the global level. Fish are the taxonomic group more extensively investigated to assess MP contamination in marine environment. A large variability in MP bioaccumulation (i.e., body burden) was reported in fish but to date there is a dearth of information concerning the drivers underlying this process. The present systematic review aimed at summarizing the results of the scientific literature on MP body burden in the digestive tract of marine fish to quantitatively shed light on the contribution of different geographical (i.e., latitudinal origin of the sample, distance from the coastline and field- or marked-collected) and ecological (i.e., trophic strategy, milieu, and body size) factors driving bioaccumulation. The mean (±SE) MPs/individual was 4.13 ± 2.87, and the mean MPs/ww (i.e., MPs/g) was 5.92 ± 0.94. Overall, MP abundance expressed as MPs/individual of fish from tropical areas was significantly higher compared to the other latitudinal bands, with species sampled close to the coastline that accumulated a larger number of MPs compared to those collected offshore. Neither the trophic strategy, nor the milieu and the market or field origin of fish explained the MP body burden. However, fish body size resulted as a determinant of MP body burden (as MPs/individual), with small fish accumulating a lower amount of MPs compared to larger ones. Qualitatively, but not statistically significant, similar results were generally obtained for MPs/ww, except for an opposite, and significant, variation according to species body size. Our findings showed that geographical, rather than ecological factors represent the main drivers of MP body burden in marine fish, suggesting that environmental variables and/or local pollution sources mainly contribute to explaining the large variability underlying the ingestion and bioaccumulation processes of these contaminants.
Topics: Animals; Bioaccumulation; Body Burden; Environmental Monitoring; Fishes; Geography; Microplastics; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 38723708
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124121 -
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and... Jul 2024to investigate the ability of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) to avoid gastrostomy tube (G-tube). (Review)
Review
Pre-Operative Characteristics Helping to Avoid Gastrostomy Tube After Mandibular Distraction in Neonates With Pierre-Robin Sequence: A Institutional Case-Series and Review of the Literature.
OBJECTIVE
to investigate the ability of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) to avoid gastrostomy tube (G-tube).
DATA SOURCES
PubMed, EBSCOhost, Cochrane, and Embase.
REVIEW METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed the number of MDO cases performed at our institution for patients with Robin Sequence (RS) over the past 10 years. In our institutional review, patients were excluded if they had a G-tube already placed at the time of surgery. We also performed a systematic review of the literature. Articles were excluded if they did not detail feeding outcomes after MDO, or if MDO was performed on patients that did not have RS.
RESULTS
In our systematic review, 12 articles were included that comprised a total of 209 neonates with RS that underwent MDO. A total of 174 (83.3%) patients avoided a G-tube once MDO was performed. A total of 14 patients met the inclusion criteria at our institution. Of the 14 RS patients, 9 (64%) avoided having a G-tube placed and all (14/14) avoided tracheostomy. The average birth weight of patients avoiding a G-tube was 3.11 kg compared to 2.25 kg ( = .045) in the group requiring a G-tube. In the group avoiding a G-tube, the average weight at time of operation was 3.46 kg compared to 2.83 kg ( = .037) in the group requiring a G-tube.
CONCLUSION
MDO may be considered as a surgical option to prevent G-tube placement for neonates with non-syndromic RS who have difficulty with PO feeding but whose airway obstruction is not severe enough to require respiratory support. Based on our institutional experience, a minimum weight of 3.00 kg correlated with higher success rates of PO intake and avoiding a G-tube.
Topics: Humans; Pierre Robin Syndrome; Infant, Newborn; Gastrostomy; Osteogenesis, Distraction; Retrospective Studies; Mandible; Male; Female; Enteral Nutrition; Intubation, Gastrointestinal
PubMed: 38712740
DOI: 10.1177/00034894241249547 -
JPMA. the Journal of the Pakistan... Apr 2024To determine the impact of ChatGPT in plastic surgery research and assess the authenticity of such contributions.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the impact of ChatGPT in plastic surgery research and assess the authenticity of such contributions.
METHODS
The study conducted a literature search in Sep'23 from databases like Pubmed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, and OVID Medline.The following keywords 'ChatGPT', 'chatbot', 'reconstruction', 'aesthetic' and 'plastic surgery' were used. 32 papers were included from the initial 131 results of articles. English language articles from November 2022 to July 2023 discussing ChatGPT's role in plastic and aesthetic surgery were included whereas non-English documents, irrelevant content, and non-academic sources were excluded from the study.
RESULTS
The manuscripts included in the systematic review had a diverse range, including original research articles, case reports, letters to the editor, and editorials. Among the included studies, there were 9 original research articles, 1 case report, 23 letters to the editor, and 2 editorials. Most publications originated from the United States (18) and Australia (7). Analysis suggested concerns, such as inaccuracies, plagiarism, outdated knowledge, and lack of personalized advice. Various authors recommend using ChatGPT as a supplementary tool rather than a replacement for human decision-making in medicine.
CONCLUSIONS
ChatGPT shows potential in plastic surgery research, concerns about inaccuracies and outdated knowledge may provide deceiving information and it always requires human input and verification.
Topics: Humans; Surgery, Plastic; Plastic Surgery Procedures; Social Media
PubMed: 38712405
DOI: 10.47391/JPMA.AKU-9S-04 -
Journal of Applied Biomaterials &... 2024Despite the development of implant-supported prostheses, there are still patients for whom conservative treatments such as resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs)... (Review)
Review
Despite the development of implant-supported prostheses, there are still patients for whom conservative treatments such as resin-bonded fixed dental prostheses (RBFDPs) are more appropriate. This study's objective was to analyze the available research on full-ceramic RBFDPs. In this study, Web of Science, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases were searched for articles published in English between 2010 and 2020. A total of 14 studies were reviewed based on the eligibility criteria. The results showed that using a cantilever design with one abutment had an advantage over two abutments. Additionally, it was proposed that preparations designed with retentive aids, such as a proximal box, groove, and pinhole, could improve RBFDP survival rates. IPS e.max ZirCAD, In-Ceram alumina, and zirconia CAD/CAM were the most commonly used framework materials. Most studies used air abrasion, salinization, or hydrofluoric acid for surface treatment. Adhesive resin cements were the most frequently used type of cement. The survival rate of In-Ceram ceramics (85.3%-94.8%) was lower than that of In-Ceram zirconia and IPS e.max ZirCAD. Debonding, followed by framework fracture, was the leading cause of failure. Following 3-10 years follow-up, the survival percentage of all-ceramic RBFDPs ranged from 76% to 100%. Although RBFDPs have demonstrated satisfactory success as a conservative treatment, long-term follow-ups and higher sample sizes in clinical research are required to gain more reliable outcomes on the clinical success rate of various RBFDP designs.
Topics: Humans; Ceramics; Resin Cements; Dental Porcelain; Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported; Denture, Partial, Fixed, Resin-Bonded; Zirconium
PubMed: 38706266
DOI: 10.1177/22808000241250118 -
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex... Jun 2024Plastic pollution has spread through all parts of the marine environment, representing a significant threat to species and ecosystems. This study investigates the role... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Plastic pollution has spread through all parts of the marine environment, representing a significant threat to species and ecosystems. This study investigates the role of copepods as widespread microplastic reservoirs in the marine environment, by performing, a systematic review, meta-analysis, and semiquantitative analysis of scientific articles focusing on the interaction between copepods and microplastics under field conditions. Our findings indicate that despite uniformly low ingestion of microplastics across different marine layers and geographical areas, with a slight uptake in neustonic copepods, copepods might constitute one of the largest marine microplastic reservoirs. This phenomenon is attributed more to their vast abundance than to average microplastic ingestion values. In this article, a framework for data analysis and reporting is proposed to facilitate future large-scale evaluations and modelling of their extent and impact on plastic and carbon cycles. These insights place copepods at the forefront of the marine plastic cycle, possibly affecting plastic distribution, and bioavailability, thereby opening new pathways for understanding the complex dynamics of microplastics in marine ecosystems.
Topics: Copepoda; Animals; Microplastics; Water Pollutants, Chemical; Environmental Monitoring; Ecosystem; Plastics
PubMed: 38701964
DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124092 -
Annals of Neurosciences Apr 2024Working memory (WM) is one of the most influential cognitive functions in encoding, registering, and retrieving information. It influences the learning process in...
BACKGROUND
Working memory (WM) is one of the most influential cognitive functions in encoding, registering, and retrieving information. It influences the learning process in children. Its role becomes essential, especially in a child with a learning disability (LD). Researchers worldwide are giving much prominence to WM, especially in devising cognitive retraining strategies for better cognitive functioning and academic attainment in these children. This current study aims to explore globally used instruments to measure this construct and review effective WM training models in the cognitive rehabilitation of children with LD. This study used a systematic review, availing the elaborate "Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA)" guidelines.
SUMMARY
The databases of Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched thoroughly, and those studies, which met the inclusion criteria, were considered for this review. Out of 770 studies found with keywords, only six met the inclusion criteria and were selected for a detailed analysis. The outcome of the current review provides trustworthy evidence of poor performance, especially in tasks involving verbal and executive WM in children with all types of learning disabilities (LD) and difficulties. The studies reviewed support the hypothesis that WM can improve with training and significantly improve children's academic attainment.
KEY MESSAGE
Further this review recommends that research and efforts must go into devising these cognitive training techniques. Children have high cerebral plasticity; hence, using cognitive training (emphasizing WM training and other cognitive functions) with them would enhance their cognitive functioning and capacity, improving their academic performance.
PubMed: 38694713
DOI: 10.1177/09727531231198639 -
Journal of Robotic Surgery May 2024Breast reconstruction is an integral part of breast cancer management. Conventional techniques of flap harvesting for autologous breast reconstruction are associated... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Comparative Study Review
Breast reconstruction is an integral part of breast cancer management. Conventional techniques of flap harvesting for autologous breast reconstruction are associated with considerable complications. Robotic surgery has enabled a new spectrum of minimally invasive breast surgeries. The current systematic review and meta-analysis study was designed to retrieve the surgical and clinical outcomes of robotic versus conventional techniques for autologous breast reconstruction. An extensive systematic literature review was performed from inception to 25 April 2023. All clinical studies comparing the outcomes of robotic and conventional autologous breast reconstruction were included for meta-analysis. The present meta-analysis included seven articles consisting of 783 patients. Of them, 263 patients received robotic breast reconstruction, while 520 patients received conventional technique. Of note, 477 patients received latissimus dorsi flap (LDF) and 306 were subjected to deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap. There was a significantly prolonged duration of surgery (MD 58.36;95% CI 32.05,84.67;P < 0.001) and duration of anaesthesia (MD 47;95% CI 16.23,77.77;P = 0.003) among patients who underwent robotic surgery. There was a similar risk of complications between robotic and conventional surgeries. The mean level of pain intensity was significantly lower among patients who received robotic breast surgery (MD- 0.28;95% CI - 0.73,0.17; P = 0.22). There was prolonged length of hospitalization among patients with conventional DIEP flap surgery (MD- 0.59;95% CI - 1.13,- 0.05;P = 0.03). The present meta-analysis highlighted the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of robotic autologous breast reconstruction. This included the successful harvesting of LDF and DIEP flap with acceptable surgical and functional outcomes.
Topics: Robotic Surgical Procedures; Humans; Mammaplasty; Female; Treatment Outcome; Breast Neoplasms; Operative Time; Transplantation, Autologous; Postoperative Complications; Superficial Back Muscles; Perforator Flap; Surgical Flaps
PubMed: 38693427
DOI: 10.1007/s11701-024-01913-x -
The Surgeon : Journal of the Royal... Jun 2024Surgeons are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms due to a range of factors including, maladaptive positioning and surgical ergonomics. Cervical muscle... (Review)
Review
INTRODUCTION
Surgeons are at high risk of developing musculoskeletal symptoms due to a range of factors including, maladaptive positioning and surgical ergonomics. Cervical muscle strain and biomechanical load is most prevalent due to repetitive motions and prolonged static neck positioning. This issue is apparent through reports of prevalence between 10 and 74.4% among surgeons. The aim of this systematic review is to provide an objective assessment of the clinical evidence available and a descriptive analysis of the effects of kinematics and surgical ergonomics on the prevalence of surgeons' cervical musculoskeletal pain.
METHODS
This is PRISMA-compliant systematic review of clinical studies assessing the prevalence of cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction in surgeons by searching PUBMED and Ovid EMBASE databases from inception to 19th October 2023. Study quality was graded according to the National Institutes of Health study quality assessment tools.
RESULTS
A total of 9 studies were included in the final qualitative analysis. The use of loupes, open surgery and excessive neck flexion (>30°) were associated with cervical dysfunction. Comparison of study outcomes was challenging due to heterogeneity within study methods and the paucity of methodological quality.
CONCLUSION
The current literature assessing ergonomic and biomechanical factors predisposing surgeons to cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction is insufficient to provide reliable guidance for clinicians. Although the literature identifies factors contributing to work-related cervical dysfunction, few attempt to evaluate interventions for improved surgical ergonomics. An objective assessment of interventions that prompt postural correction with the aim to improve neck pain in surgeon cohorts is warranted.
Topics: Humans; Ergonomics; Surgeons; Occupational Diseases; Biomechanical Phenomena; Musculoskeletal Diseases; Neck Pain; Risk Factors; Posture
PubMed: 38693029
DOI: 10.1016/j.surge.2024.04.003