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Acta Otorhinolaryngologica Italica :... May 2024
Topics: Humans; Plastic Surgery Procedures; Mouth; Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures; Mouth Neoplasms
PubMed: 38745516
DOI: 10.14639/0392-100X-suppl.1-44-2024-N2904 -
Archives of Craniofacial Surgery Apr 2024The influence of smoking on nonsyndromic clefts has been a topic of research for many years. However, few studies have investigated the effect of smoking on causing...
BACKGROUND
The influence of smoking on nonsyndromic clefts has been a topic of research for many years. However, few studies have investigated the effect of smoking on causing clefts in different gene pools.
METHODS
A meta-analysis was conducted of case-control studies related to smoking. Keywords such as "clefts," "cleft lip," "cleft palate," "orofacial cleft," and "smoking" were used to search the MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases.
RESULTS
In total, 51 articles were reviewed. The RevMan software was utilized for the analysis, and the Mantel-Haenszel method was employed to pool the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals. Although the overall OR, a measure of the association between exposure and outcome, was higher for smokers than for non-smokers, this association was significantly stronger in individuals from Asia and South America (1.73), and lowest in Europe (1.31). Among active and passive smokers in Asia, the OR was approximately 0.93, indicating an equivalent impact from both types of smoking.
CONCLUSION
This analysis indirectly suggests that restriction measures targeting both active and passive smoking are crucial in Asia.
PubMed: 38742331
DOI: 10.7181/acfs.2023.00437 -
The Science of the Total Environment Jul 2024Microplastics are ubiquitous in the aquatic environment and have emerged as a significant environmental issue due to their potential impacts on human health and the... (Review)
Review
Microplastics are ubiquitous in the aquatic environment and have emerged as a significant environmental issue due to their potential impacts on human health and the ecosystem. Current laboratory-based microplastic detection methods suffer from various drawbacks, including a lack of standardisation, limited spatial and temporal coverage, high costs, and time-consuming procedures. Consequently, there is a need for the development of in-situ techniques to detect and monitor microplastics to effectively identify and understand their sources, pathways, and behaviours. Herein, we adopt a systematic literature review method to assess the development and application of experimental and field technologies designed for the in-situ detection and monitoring of aquatic microplastics, without the need for sample preparation. Four scientific databases were searched in March 2023, resulting in a review of 62 relevant studies. These studies were classified into seven sensor categories and their working principles were discussed. The sensor classes include optical devices, digital holography, Raman spectroscopy, other spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, remote sensing, and other methods. We also looked at how data from these technologies are integrated with machine learning models to develop classifiers capable of accurately characterising the physical and chemical properties of microplastics and discriminating them from other particles. This review concluded that in-situ detection of microplastics in aquatic environments is feasible and can be achieved with high accuracy, even though the methods are still in the early stages of development. Nonetheless, further research is still needed to enhance the in-situ detection of microplastics. This includes exploring the possibility of combining various detection methods and developing robust machine-learning classifiers. Additionally, there is a recommendation for in-situ implementation of the reviewed methods to assess their effectiveness in detecting microplastics and identify their limitations.
Topics: Microplastics; Environmental Monitoring; Water Pollutants, Chemical
PubMed: 38740219
DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173111 -
Journal of Human Kinetics Apr 2024Specific physical qualities such as sprint running, change-of-direction or jump height are determinants of sports performance. Photocell systems are practical and easy... (Review)
Review
Specific physical qualities such as sprint running, change-of-direction or jump height are determinants of sports performance. Photocell systems are practical and easy to use systems to assess the time from point A to point B. In addition, these photoelectric systems are also used to obtain the time of vertically displaced movements. Knowing the accuracy and precision of photocell timing can be a determinant of ensuring a higher quality interpretation of results and of selecting the most appropriate devices for specific objectives. This systematic review aimed to identify and summarize studies that have examined the validity and reliability of photocells in sport sciences. A systematic review of PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From the 164 studies initially identified, 16 were fully reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analyzed. Photocells appear to have a strong agreement with force plates (gold standard), but are not interchangeable to measure the vertical jump. For monitoring horizontal displacement, double beam systems, compared to single beam systems, are more valid and reliable when it comes to avoiding false triggers caused by swinging arms or legs.
PubMed: 38736609
DOI: 10.5114/jhk/174285 -
International Journal of Molecular... May 2024Since we aim to test new options to find medication for cognitive disorders, we have begun to assess the effect of semaglutide and to conduct a review gathering studies... (Review)
Review
Since we aim to test new options to find medication for cognitive disorders, we have begun to assess the effect of semaglutide and to conduct a review gathering studies that have attempted this purpose. This systematic review focuses on the cognitive effects of semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), in the context of neurological and cognitive impairment. Semaglutide, a synthetic GLP-1 analog, showcased neuroprotective effects beyond metabolic regulation. It mitigated apoptosis and improved cognitive dysfunction in cerebrovascular disease, suggesting broader implications for neurological well-being. Also, studies highlighted GLP-1 RAs' positive impact on olfactory function in obese individuals with type 2 diabetes, on neurodegenerative disorders, multiple sclerosis, and endotoxemia. In order to analyze current studies that assess the impact of semaglutide on cognitive function, a literature search was conducted up to February 2024 on two online databases, MEDLINE (via PubMed) and Web of Science Core Collection, as well as various websites. Fifteen studies on mice populations and two studies on cell lines were included, analyzed, and assessed with bias-specific tools. The neuroprotective and anti-apoptotic properties of GLP-1 and its analogs were emphasized, with animal models and cell line studies demonstrating enhanced cognitive function. While promising, limitations include fewer studies, highlighting the need for extensive research, particularly in the human population. Even though this medication seems promising, there are significant limitations, one of which is the lack of studies on human subjects. Therefore, this review aims to gather current evidence.
Topics: Animals; Glucagon-Like Peptides; Cognition; Humans; Disease Models, Animal; Neuroprotective Agents; Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor; Mice; Cell Line; Cognitive Dysfunction
PubMed: 38732190
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094972 -
BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders May 2024This systemic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of proximal humeral fracture in elderly patient fixation using locked plate with or... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
This systemic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of proximal humeral fracture in elderly patient fixation using locked plate with or without cement augmentation.
METHODS
The databases of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched in August 2023 for literature comparing the clinical outcomes of patients with PHFs treated with locked plate alone and locked plate augmented with cement. Data describing study design; level of evidence; inclusion criteria; demographic information; final follow-up; revision rate; implant failure rate; avascular necrosis rate; total complication rate; constant score; and disability of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) score were collected.
RESULTS
Eight studies (one randomized-controlled trial and seven observational studies), involving 664 patients, were identified. Compared with locked plates alone, using cement-augmented locked plates reduced the implant failure rate (odds ratio (OR) = 0.19; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.10-0.39; P < 0.0001) and total complication rate (OR = 0.45; 95% CI 0.29-0.69; P = 0.0002) and improved DASH scores (mean difference (MD) = 2.99; 95% CI 1.00-4.98; P = 0.003). However, there was no significant difference in clinical outcomes, including revision rate, avascular necrosis rate, and constant score.
CONCLUSION
In this review and meta-analysis, fixation of the PHFs in elderly patients using locked plates with or without cement augmentation has no significant difference in revision rate, but the implant failure and total complication rates may be lesser on using the cement-augmented locked plate for fixation than on using a locked plate alone. Good results are expected for most patients treated with this technique.
TRIAL REGISTRATION
The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)21 guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic review and meta-analysis and was registered as a protocol in PROSPERO (CRD42022318798).
Topics: Humans; Bone Plates; Shoulder Fractures; Fracture Fixation, Internal; Bone Cements; Aged; Treatment Outcome; Aged, 80 and over; Postoperative Complications; Reoperation
PubMed: 38730497
DOI: 10.1186/s12891-024-07502-1 -
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