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Journal of Dentistry Jun 2024To investigate the accuracy of immediate anterior implantation using static computer-assisted implant surgery (s-CAIS) and robotic computer-assisted implant surgery...
OBJECTIVES
To investigate the accuracy of immediate anterior implantation using static computer-assisted implant surgery (s-CAIS) and robotic computer-assisted implant surgery (r-CAIS).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
One hundred and six implants were immediately inserted in the anterior zone of 69 patients using a freehand technique, s-CAIS or r-CAIS. Postoperative cone-beam computed tomography scans were matched with preoperative plans to evaluate the deviations between the planned and placed implant positions.
RESULTS
The global coronal deviations in the freehand, s-CAIS, and r-CAIS groups were 1.29 ± 0.52 mm, 1.01 ± 0.41 mm, and 0.62 ± 0.28 mm, respectively. Significant differences were observed in the r-CAIS group compared to both the s-CAIS group and the freehand group (p < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found between the s-CAIS group and the freehand group (p > 0.05). The global apical deviations in the freehand, s-CAIS and r-CAIS groups were 1.78 ± 0.59 mm, 1.24 ± 0.52 mm and 0.65 ± 0.27 mm, respectively, while the angular deviations in the freehand, s-CAIS and r-CAIS groups were 6.46 ± 2.21 degrees, 2.94 ± 1.71 degrees and 1.46 ± 0.57 degrees, respectively. Significant differences were observed in both the global apical deviations and angular deviations among the three groups (p < 0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
The accuracy of immediate anterior implantation with r-CAIS was better than that with s-CAIS. This difference is attributed to better control of the coronal, vertical and axial errors during r-CAIS.
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE
This study provides significant evidence to support the use of r-CAIS as a potential alternative in immediate anterior implantation.
PubMed: 38955260
DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2024.105218 -
NeuroImage Jun 2024MAO-A catalyzes the oxidative degradation of monoamines and is thus implicated in sex-specific neuroplastic processes that influence gray matter (GM) density (GMD) and...
MAO-A catalyzes the oxidative degradation of monoamines and is thus implicated in sex-specific neuroplastic processes that influence gray matter (GM) density (GMD) and microstructure (GMM). Given the exact monitoring of plasma hormone levels and sex steroid intake, transgender individuals undergoing gender-affirming hormone therapy (GHT) represent a valuable cohort to potentially investigate sex steroid-induced changes of GM and concomitant MAO-A density. Here, we investigated the effects of GHT over a median time period of 4.5 months on GMD and GMM as well as MAO-A distribution volume. To this end, 20 cisgender women, 11 cisgender men, 20 transgender women and 10 transgender men underwent two MRI scans in a longitudinal design. PET scans using [C]harmine were performed before each MRI session in a subset of 35 individuals. GM changes determined by diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) metrics for GMM and voxel based morphometry (VBM) for GMD were estimated using repeated measures ANOVA. Regions showing significant changes of both GMM and GMD were used for the subsequent analysis of MAO-A density. These involved the fusiform gyrus, rolandic operculum, inferior occipital cortex, middle and anterior cingulum, bilateral insula, cerebellum and the lingual gyrus (post-hoc tests: p < 0.025). In terms of MAO-A distribution volume, no significant effects were found. Additionally, the sexual desire inventory (SDI) was applied to assess GHT-induced changes in sexual desire, showing an increase of SDI scores among trans men. Changes in the GMD of the bilateral insula showed a moderate correlation to SDI scores (rho = - 0.62, p = 0.047). The present results are indicative of a reliable influence of gender-affirming hormone therapy on 1) GMD and GMM following an interregional pattern and 2) sexual desire specifically among trans men.
PubMed: 38955254
DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2024.120716 -
Open Biology Jul 2024mosquitoes have an exclusively phytophagous feeding habit as adults, which leads to significant differences in their morphophysiology compared with haematophagous...
mosquitoes have an exclusively phytophagous feeding habit as adults, which leads to significant differences in their morphophysiology compared with haematophagous mosquitoes. However, the molecular mechanisms of digestion in this mosquito are not well understood. In this study, RNA sequencing of the posterior midgut (PMG) of the mosquito was undertaken, highlighting its significance in mosquito digestion. Subsequently, a comparison was made between the differential gene expression of the PMG and that of the anterior midgut. It was found that the most abundant proteases in the PMG were trypsin and chymotrypsin, and the level of gene expression for enzymes essential for digestion (such as serine protease, α-amylase and pancreatic triacylglycerol lipase) and innate immune response (including catalase, cecropin-A2 and superoxide dismutase) was like that of haematophagous mosquitoes. Peritrophin-1 was detected in the entire midgut, with an elevated expression level in the PMG. Based on our findings, it is hypothesized that a non-haematophagic habit might have been exhibited by the ancestor of , and this trait may have been retained. This study represents a pioneering investigation at the molecular level of midgut contents in a non-haematophagous mosquito. The findings offer valuable insights into the evolutionary aspects of feeding habits in culicids.
Topics: Animals; Culicidae; Insect Proteins; Transcriptome; Gene Expression Profiling; Digestive System; Digestion; Gastrointestinal Tract; Phylogeny; Feeding Behavior
PubMed: 38955221
DOI: 10.1098/rsob.230437 -
Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive &... Jun 2024Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is an inflammatory, scarring dermatosis of the female anogenital area and may lead to pain and sexual dysfunction. In select cases which...
INTRODUCTION
Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus is an inflammatory, scarring dermatosis of the female anogenital area and may lead to pain and sexual dysfunction. In select cases which are refractory to conservative therapy, surgery may provide significant symptom improvement. The objective of this study was to expand the range of surgical treatment options for these patients by presenting the operative outcomes of a specialised reconstructive method using the anterior obturator artery perforator (aOAP) flap.
METHODS
A retrospective cohort study was conducted on sexual outcomes following the excision of affected vulvovestibular tissue by skinning vulvectomy and subsequent single-stage reconstruction using the aOAP flap. Additional procedures, such as the Omega-Domed (OD) flap, scar surgery and clitoral re-exposure, were performed when indicated.
RESULTS
Between 2014 and 2022, a total of 61 patients were surgically treated and retrospectively included in this study. Vulvectomy and subsequent reconstruction with bilateral aOAP flaps were performed in 53 (87%) cases. There was a significant reduction in the prevalence of dyspareunia and inability to have sexual intercourse at the 1-year follow-up compared to baseline (p < 0.001). There were several minor, reversible complications that required secondary intervention.
CONCLUSIONS
The outcomes of this study indicate a substantial improvement in sexual function, evidenced by a significant reduction in dyspareunia and an increased ability to engage in sexual intercourse. Altered tissue quality in patients with lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and long-term cortisone application may predispose this patient population to a higher risk of minor post-operative complications.
CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER
DRKS00033261.
PubMed: 38955111
DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2024.05.046 -
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy =... Jul 2024β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) is a G-protein-coupled receptor involved in cardiac protection. In chronic heart failure (CHF), persistent sympathetic nervous system...
β2 adrenergic receptor (β2AR) is a G-protein-coupled receptor involved in cardiac protection. In chronic heart failure (CHF), persistent sympathetic nervous system activation occurs, resulting in prolonged β2AR activation and subsequent receptor desensitization and downregulation. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1) has the functions of enhancing myocardial energy metabolism and mitigating myocardial fibrosis. The mechanisms of NGR1 against ischemic heart failure are unclear. A left anterior descending (LAD) artery ligation procedure was performed on C57BL/6 J mice for four weeks. From the 4th week onwards, they were treated with various doses (3, 10, 30 mg/kg/day) of NGR1. Subsequently, the impacts of NGR1 on ischemic heart failure were evaluated by assessing cardiac function, morphological changes in cardiac tissue, and the expression of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and beta-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC). H9c2 cells were protected by NGR1 when exposed to OGD/R conditions. H9c2 cells were likewise protected from OGD/R damage by NGR1. Furthermore, NGR1 increased β2AR levels and decreased β2AR ubiquitination. Mechanistic studies revealed that NGR1 enhanced MDM2 protein stability and increased the expression of MDM2 and β-arrestin2 while inhibiting their interaction. Additionally, under conditions produced by OGD/R, the protective benefits of NGR1 on H9c2 cells were attenuated upon administration of the MDM2 inhibitor SP141. According to these findings, NGR1 impedes the interplay between β-arrestin2 and MDM2, thereby preventing the ubiquitination and degradation of β2AR to improve CHF.
PubMed: 38955084
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117004 -
International Journal of Surgery Case... Jun 2024Chondrosarcomas are the third most frequent malignant bone tumors. With pelvic bones being their most common primary location, diagnosis and treatment of these tumors is...
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE
Chondrosarcomas are the third most frequent malignant bone tumors. With pelvic bones being their most common primary location, diagnosis and treatment of these tumors is especially challenging due to the diverse clinical manifestations and involvement of critical anatomic structures. We present the case of a grade III pelvic chondrosarcoma of the left iliopubic branch managed through a multidisciplinary approach.
CASE PRESENTATION
A 26-year-old male patient presented with a 1-year history of a mass in the left iliopubic branch. The imaging findings suggested chondrosarcoma and showed extrinsic compression of pelvic structures causing right hydronephrosis, marked elongation and tortuosity of the sigmoid colon, and anterior and superior displacement of the bladder. Following multidisciplinary meeting it was decided to perform a left hemicolectomy, colostomy, and internal hemipelvectomy in the 1-2-3 left zones, with resection of the intrapelvic and intra-abdominal tumor, and preservation of the left lower extremity. The patient presented two episodes of intestinal obstruction, which resolved with medical management. Was discharged without presenting further complications.
CLINICAL DISCUSSION
Chondrosarcomas management demands a methodical approach. Appropriate surgical strategy requires individualization according to the characteristics of the lesion and the degree of involvement of surrounding structures. Complete resection of the tumor and preservation of the lower extremity function are critical achievements.
CONCLUSION
This case underscores the effective management of a challenging tumor such as pelvic chondrosarcoma. The multidisciplinary approach and collaboration of several specialties was crucial to reach an appropriate surgical strategy.
PubMed: 38954964
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2024.109860 -
Gait & Posture Jun 2024Individuals with myelomeningocele (MMC) present with neurological and orthopaedic deficiencies, requiring orthoses during walking. Orthoses for counteracting...
BACKGROUND
Individuals with myelomeningocele (MMC) present with neurological and orthopaedic deficiencies, requiring orthoses during walking. Orthoses for counteracting dorsiflexion may restrict activities such as rising from a chair.
RESEARCH QUESTION
How are sit-to-stand (STS) movements performed with ankle joint-restricted ankle-foot orthoses (AFO) and knee-ankle-foot orthoses with a free-articulated knee joint (KAFO-F)?
METHODS
Twenty-eight adults with MMC, mean age 25.5 years (standard deviation: 3.5 years), were divided into an AnkleFree group (no orthosis or a foot orthosis) and an AnkleRestrict group (AFOs or KAFO-Fs). Study participants performed the five times STS test (5STS) while their movements were simultaneously captured with a three-dimensional motion system. Centre of mass (CoM) trajectories and joint kinematics were analysed using statistical parametric mapping.
RESULTS
The AnkleRestrict group performed the STS slower than the AnkleFree group, median 8.8 s (min, max: 6.9, 14.61 s) vs 15.0 s (min, max: 7.5, 32.2 s) (p = 0.002), displayed reduced ankle dorsiflexion (mean difference: 6°, p = 0.044) (74-81 % of the STS cycle), reduced knee extension (mean difference: 14°, p = 0.002) (17-41 % of the STS cycle), larger anterior pelvic tilt angle (average difference: 11°, p = 0.024) (12-24 % of the STS cycle), and larger trunk flexion angle (on average 4°, p = 0.029) (6-15 % of the STS cycle).
SIGNIFICANCE
The differences between the AnkleFree and AnkleRestrict groups in performing the STS seem consistent with the participants functional ambulation: community ambulation in the AnkleFree group, and household and nonfunctional ambulation with less hip muscle strength in the majority of the AnkleRestrict group. No differences in the 5STS CoM trajectories or the kinematics were found with respect to the AFO and KAFO-Fs groups. Because orthoses are constructed to enable walking, the environment needs to be adjusted for activities in daily living such as the STS movement.
PubMed: 38954928
DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2024.06.025 -
Clinical Biomechanics (Bristol, Avon) Jun 2024Long-leg frontal radiographs of the lower extremities are used to assess knee osteoarthritis. Given the three-dimensional (3D) nature of alignment changes in...
BACKGROUND
Long-leg frontal radiographs of the lower extremities are used to assess knee osteoarthritis. Given the three-dimensional (3D) nature of alignment changes in osteoarthritis, postural alterations in the femur and tibia extend beyond the coronal plane (in-plane) to include the transverse and sagittal planes (out-of-plane). This study investigates the impact of these out-of-plane factors on in-plane knee alignment parameters observed in frontal radiographs.
METHODS
A total of 97 osteoarthritic knees in women were examined. Using a 3D-to-two-dimensional (2D) image matching technique, we evaluated the 3D postures of the femur and tibia in the standing position as viewed from frontal radiographs in the world coordinate system. Statistical analyses were conducted to explore associations between these 3D postures and 2D alignment parameters obtained from frontal radiographs under identical conditions.
FINDINGS
The femur exhibited a medial inclination of 2.7°, a posterior inclination of 3.9°, and an internal rotation of 4.2°, whereas the tibia showed a lateral inclination of 6.4°, an anterior inclination of 6.7°, and an internal rotation of 6.7°. Both coronal and rotational postures of femur and tibia influenced the hip-knee-ankle angle, mechanical axis percentage, and medial proximal tibial angle. However, only coronal factors of tibia impacted tibial joint line obliquity relative to the floor.
INTERPRETATION
Attention should be paid to the potential impact of the out-of-plane postures of the femur and tibia on parameters assessed in plain frontal radiographs of the lower extremities.
PubMed: 38954887
DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2024.106297 -
Neurobiology of Aging Jun 2024Decline in spatial context memory emerges in midlife, the time when most females transition from pre- to post-menopause. Recent evidence suggests that, among...
Decline in spatial context memory emerges in midlife, the time when most females transition from pre- to post-menopause. Recent evidence suggests that, among post-menopausal females, advanced age is associated with functional brain alterations and lower spatial context memory. However, it is unknown whether similar effects are evident for white matter (WM) and, moreover, whether such effects contribute to sex differences at midlife. To address this, we conducted a study on 96 cognitively unimpaired middle-aged adults (30 males, 32 pre-menopausal females, 34 post-menopausal females). Spatial context memory was assessed using a face-location memory paradigm, while WM microstructure was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging. Behaviorally, advanced age was associated with lower spatial context memory in post-menopausal females but not pre-menopausal females or males. Additionally, advanced age was associated with microstructural variability in predominantly frontal WM (e.g., anterior corona radiata, genu of corpus callosum), which was related to lower spatial context memory among post-menopausal females. Our findings suggest that post-menopausal status enhances vulnerability to age effects on the brain's WM and episodic memory.
PubMed: 38954878
DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2024.05.017 -
American Journal of Physical Medicine &... Jul 2024Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS) is a chronic, focal lesion of the lower trunk of the brachial plexus or of the T1 and C8 anterior primary rami, often arising...
Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS) is a chronic, focal lesion of the lower trunk of the brachial plexus or of the T1 and C8 anterior primary rami, often arising due to distortion of neural structures by a fibrous congenital band extending from a C7 transverse process or cervical rib. Accordingly, patients present with chronic weakness or atrophy of the hand, most prominently of the thenar eminence, which receives most innervation from the T1 root. We present clinical, electrophysiologic, and imaging findings in a case of nTOS presenting in an adult with a history most suggestive of congenital brachial plexus palsy (CBPP), another pathology sharing the mechanism of nerve compression or injury within the supracostoclavicular space. The patient had new right thenar eminence atrophy and a lifelong history of medial forearm sensory deficit and she improved after first rib resection. The convergence of two disorders in the same patient arising in different phases of life illustrates how anatomic or structural variation in this space can predispose to lower brachial plexus injury.
PubMed: 38954650
DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000002572