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Neoplastic plasma cells (PCs) proliferation at anatomic sites dislocated from the bone marrow (BM) or their contiguous growth from osseous lesions that disrupt the cortical bone is termed extramedullary multiple myeloma (EMD). EMD still remains challenging from a therapeutic and biological perspective. Pathogenesis has not been completely clarified, and it is generally associated with high-risk cytogenetics (HRCAs). In order to emphasize the clinical and biochemical complexity of this disease, we have decided to describe the case of a patient affected by relapsed-refractory (RR) EMD, which presented as para-osseous plasmacytoma with a bi-phenotypical immunoglobulin (Ig) component and lately relapsed as soft-tissue plasmacytoma with a total immunophenotype switch. We have also hypothesized a correlation between Ig patterns and prognosis and suggested the possible inclusion of these biochemical features in the general risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backgrounds: Laparoscopic surgery is widely used in abdominal emergency surgery (AES), and the possibility of extending this approach to the more recent robotic surgery (RS) arouses great interest. The slow diffusion of robotic technology mainly due to high costs and the longer RS operative time when compared to laparoscopy may represent disincentives, especially in AES. This study aims to report our experience in the use of RS in AES assessing its safety and feasibility, with particular focus on intra- and post-operative complications, conversion rate, and surgical learning curve. Our data were also compared to other experiences though an extensive literature review. Methods: We retrospectively analysed a single surgeon series of the last 10 years. From January 2014 to December 2023, 36 patients underwent urgent or emergency RS. The robotic devices used were Da Vinci Si (15 cases) and Xi (21 cases). Results: 36 (4.3%) out of 834 robotic procedures were included in our analysis: 20 (56.56%) females. The mean age was 63 years and 30% of patients were ≥ 70 years. 2 (5.55%) procedures were performed at night. No conversions to open were reported in this series. According to the Clavien-Dindo classification, 2 (5.5%) major complications were collected. Intraoperative and 30-day mortality were 0%. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that RS may be a useful and reliable approach also to AES and intraoperative laparoscopic complications when performed in selected hemodynamically stable patients in very well-trained robotic centers. The technology may increase the minimally invasive use and conversion rate in emergent settings in a completely robotic or hybrid approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Falls are common in a range of clinical cohorts, where routine risk assessment often comprises subjective visual observation only. Typically, observational assessment involves evaluation of an individual's gait during scripted walking protocols within a lab to identify deficits that potentially increase fall risk, but subtle deficits may not be (readily) observable. Therefore, objective approaches (e.g., inertial measurement units, IMUs) are useful for quantifying high resolution gait characteristics, enabling more informed fall risk assessment by capturing subtle deficits. However, IMU-based gait instrumentation alone is limited, failing to consider participant behaviour and details within the environment (e.g., obstacles). Video-based eye-tracking glasses may provide additional insight to fall risk, clarifying how people traverse environments based on head and eye movements. Recording head and eye movements can provide insights into how the allocation of visual attention to environmental stimuli influences successful navigation around obstacles. Yet, manual review of video data to evaluate head and eye movements is time-consuming and subjective. An automated approach is needed but none currently exists. This paper proposes a deep learning-based object detection algorithm (VARFA) to instrument vision and video data during walks, complementing instrumented gait. Method: The approach automatically labels video data captured in a gait lab to assess visual attention and details of the environment. The proposed algorithm uses a YoloV8 model trained on with a novel lab-based dataset. Results: VARFA achieved excellent evaluation metrics (0.93 mAP50), identifying, and localizing static objects (e.g., obstacles in the walking path) with an average accuracy of 93%. Similarly, a U-NET based track/path segmentation model achieved good metrics (IoU 0.82), suggesting that the predicted tracks (i.e., walking paths) align closely with the actual track, with an overlap of 82%. Notably, both models achieved these metrics while processing at real-time speeds, demonstrating efficiency and effectiveness for pragmatic applications. Conclusion: The instrumented approach improves the efficiency and accuracy of fall risk assessment by evaluating the visual allocation of attention (i.e., information about when and where a person is attending) during navigation, improving the breadth of instrumentation in this area. Use of VARFA to instrument vision could be used to better inform fall risk assessment by providing behaviour and context data to complement instrumented e.g., IMU data during gait tasks. That may have notable (e.g., personalized) rehabilitation implications across a wide range of clinical cohorts where poor gait and increased fall risk are common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Pilocytic astrocytomas (PA) in adults are rare and may be challenging to identify based only on histomorphology. Compared to their paediatric counterparts, they are reportedly molecularly more diverse and associated with a worse prognosis. We aimed to describe the characteristics of adult PAs more precisely by comprehensively profiling a series of 79 histologically diagnosed adult cases (≥18 years). Methods: We performed global DNA methylation profiling and DNA and RNA panel sequencing and integrated the results with clinical data. We further compared the molecular characteristics of adult and paediatric PAs that had a significant match to one of the established PA methylation classes in the Heidelberg brain tumour classifier. Results: The mean age in our cohort was 33 years, and 43% of the tumours were located supratentorially. Based on methylation profiling, only 39% of the cases received a significant match to a PA methylation class. Sixteen per cent matched a different tumour type, and 45% had a Heidelberg classifier score <0.9 with an affiliation to diverse established methylation classes in t‐SNE analyses. Although the KIAA1549::BRAF fusion was found in 98% of paediatric PAs, this was true for only 27% of histologically defined and 55% of adult PAs defined by methylation profiling. Conclusions: A particularly high fraction of adult tumours with histological features of PA do not match current PA methylation classes, indicating ambiguous histology and an urgent need for molecular profiling. Moreover, even in adult PAs with a match to a PA methylation class, the distribution of genetic drivers differs significantly from their paediatric counterparts (p < 0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posterior fossa type A (PF-EPN-A, PFA) ependymoma are aggressive tumors that mainly affect children and have a poor prognosis. Histopathology shows significant intratumoral heterogeneity, ranging from loose tissue to often sharply demarcated, extremely cell-dense tumor areas. To determine molecular differences in morphologically different areas and to understand their clinical significance, we analyzed 113 PF-EPN-A samples, including 40 corresponding relapse samples. Cell-dense areas ranged from 0 to 100% of the tumor area and displayed a higher proportion of proliferating tumor cells (p < 0.01). Clinically, cell density was associated with poor progression-free and overall survival (pPFS = 0.0026, pOS < 0.01). Molecularly, tumor areas with low and high cell density showed diverging DNA methylation profiles regarding their similarity to distinct previously discovered PF-EPN-A subtypes in 9/21 cases. Prognostically relevant chromosomal changes at 1q and 6q showed spatial heterogeneity within single tumors and were significantly enriched in cell-dense tumor areas as shown by single-cell RNA (scRNA)-sequencing as well as copy number profiling and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses of different tumor areas. Finally, spatial transcriptomics revealed cell-dense areas of different tumors to be more similar than various different areas of the same tumor. High-density areas distinctly overexpressed genes encoding histone proteins, WNT5A, TGFB1, or IGF2. Relapsing tumors displayed a higher proportion of cell-dense areas (p = 0.036), a change in PF-EPN-A methylation subtypes (13/32 patients), and novel chromosome 1q gains and 6q losses (12/32 cases) compared to corresponding primary tumors. Our data suggest that PF-EPN-A ependymomas habor a previously unrecognized intratumoral heterogeneity with clinical implications, which has to be accounted for when selecting diagnostic material, inter alia, by histological evaluation of the proportion of cell-dense areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term marginal bone level (MBL) of implants supporting fixed full-arch restoration in patients who had previously lost their dentition due to severe periodontitis. This retrospective study included 35 patients in whom 342 implants with internal tapered conical connections were placed. MBL was analyzed radiographically over time and a long-term estimation of MBL was calculated. A mixed linear model with abutment height, graft, diameter and location (maxilla/mandible) as factors and gender, age, implant length and prosthetic variables as covariates was used to evaluate the influence on MBL. MBL in these patients showed an estimator of predictions at 4108 days after loading of −0.307 mm, SE = 0.042. Only 0.15% of implants were radiographically affected with MBL of 3 mm or more. The mixed linear model results showed a main effect of the type of opposing dentition, gender, implant diameter, and abutment height. Particularly, an abutment height of 1 mm had associated larger MBL than the remaining heights. Thus, it can be concluded that dental implants restored with fixed segmented full-arch rehabilitation in patients with a history of severe periodontal disease do not suffer important marginal bone loss if some specific factors are considered, mainly the use of long transmucosal abutments (≥2 mm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we explore second-level students' understanding of the concept of creativity and the implications for their engagement in class-based assessments. We propose that creativity represents an important outcome of education, particularly at second level. We use a single case study, with data presented from a series of semi-structured focus groups. The participants are students who take classes in a range of subjects including science, languages and practical subjects. Our findings suggest that second-level student's recognition and value creativity. Our findings also indicate that creativity plays a positive role in the students' educational development as it encourages them to learn new things. However, their attitudes change during second level. This is due to factors: including the attitudes of family, peers and teachers. In addition, the format of assessments and the form of feedback can contribute significantly to the students' propensity to be creative. This research contributes to the literature on the role of schools in supporting creativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In an energy sustainability perspective, the renewables penetration is expected to importantly increase over the next decade, requiring modifications in the current electric system in terms of flexibility and reliability. In this respect, storage systems will play a central role and the production of green hydrogen is seen as a promising solution for both short-term and seasonal storage. In this context, the aim of this paper is the development of a methodology for the optimal design of hybrid storage micro-grids based on renewables and hydrogen and the definition of an optimal management strategy in a perspective of hydrogen employment as seasonal storage. In detail, an optimization code – based on mathematical models for each component and on specifically developed optimization strategies for the management of the components interaction – will be presented and applied to a case study. The code optimizes the sizes of the integrated electrolyzer and fuel cell, based on an objective function that maximizes the storage efficiency. It has been applied to the S.A.P.I.E.N.T.E. micro-grid installed at the ENEA Research Centre near Rome (Italy) – composed of photovoltaic panels, batteries, heat pump and thermal storage systems – obtaining the optimal design of the hydrogen section to be integrated as seasonal storage strategy. Furthermore, a parametric analysis on the battery size has been performed. The application of the developed optimization routine resulted in the introduction of a 3.7 kW electrolyzer and 4 kW fuel cell coupled with 36 kWh of battery capacity, enabling a total hydrogen production of about 87.5 kg (corresponding to 1159 kWh of electricity produced during the thermal year). • Green hydrogen production as seasonal storage strategy within hybrid micro-grids. • Development of a model for the optimal components design and management. • Objective function to maximize storage efficiency and renewables self-consumption. • Application to a case study, optimizing electrolyzer, fuel cell and battery sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The frontal aslant tract (FAT) is a bilateral tract located within each frontal lobe. It connects the supplementary motor area in the superior frontal gyrus with the pars opercularis in the inferior frontal gyrus. There is a new and broader conceptualization of this tract called the extended FAT (eFAT). The eFAT tract role is believed to be related to several brain functions, including verbal fluency as one of its main domains. Tractographies were performed by using DSI Studio software on a template of 1065 healthy human brains. The tract was observed in a three-dimensional plane. The Laterality Index was calculated based on the length, volume, and diameter of fibers. A t test was performed to verify the statistical significance of global asymmetry. The results were compared with cadaveric dissections performed according to the Klingler technique. An illustrative case enlightens the neurosurgical application of this anatomic knowledge. The eFAT communicates the superior frontal gyrus with the Broca area (within the left hemisphere) or its contralateral homotopic area within the nondominant hemisphere. We measured the commisural fibers, traced cingulate, striatal, and insular connections and showed the existence of new frontal projections as part of the main structure. The tract did not show a significant asymmetry between the hemispheres. The tract was successfully reconstructed, focusing on its morphology and anatomic characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of Post Mortem Interval (PMI) has always been based on empirical analysis of microdata not always endowed with sufficient reliability. Due to its significancy in medico-legal issues, PMI estimation needs to be assessed by applying new and more reliable methods and/or biomarkers. Considering the growing interest and use of stem cells taken from cadaveric tissues and the success in their isolation from death donors, with the maintenance of vitality and regenerative capacity, we evaluated the Literature "state of the art" on this topic to understand if those stem cells could also be used for thanatochrologic estimation. The results obtained from Literature analysis show the possibility of using these cells as a marker for the post-mortal interval. In particular Mesenchymal Stem cells, isolated from adipose and muscular tissues, can be used to evaluate their regenerative capacity over time according to the PMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe traumatic brain-injured (TBI) patients should be primarily admitted to a hub trauma center (hospital with neurosurgical capabilities) to allow immediate delivery of appropriate care in a specialized environment. Sometimes, severe TBI patients are admitted to a spoke hospital (hospital without neurosurgical capabilities), and scarce data are available regarding the optimal management of severe isolated TBI patients who do not have immediate access to neurosurgical care. Methods: A multidisciplinary consensus panel composed of 41 physicians selected for their established clinical and scientific expertise in the acute management of TBI patients with different specializations (anesthesia/intensive care, neurocritical care, acute care surgery, neurosurgery and neuroradiology) was established. The consensus was endorsed by the World Society of Emergency Surgery, and a modified Delphi approach was adopted. Results: A total of 28 statements were proposed and discussed. Consensus was reached on 22 strong recommendations and 3 weak recommendations. In three cases, where consensus was not reached, no recommendation was provided. Conclusions: This consensus provides practical recommendations to support clinician's decision making in the management of isolated severe TBI patients in centers without neurosurgical capabilities and during transfer to a hub center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this paper is to describe the strategies used by nurses and midwives to cope with experiences of dealing with perinatal death and maintain their satisfaction at work. Design: Systematic literature review, in accordance with the PRISMA Declaration. Data Sources: (2000–2021) Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, CINALH and Dialnet, for articles in English and Spanish from the period between January 2000 and March 2021. Review Methods: The outcome of the review was the perceptions of nurses and midwives who have cared for people in a situation of perinatal loss. Results: Thirteen studies were identified that evaluated the attitudes, experiences and needs of these healthcare professionals. The combined size of all samples was 2196 participants. Conclusions: The negative effects on these professionals' satisfaction with their situation at work could be mitigated by covering their needs for knowledge, experience, and emotional and technical skills to deal with such events. Impact As potential protective factors against dissatisfaction in nurses and midwives during perinatal death experiences, we identified older age and experience in perinatal care and coping strategies based on communicating one's feelings to peers, empathetic listening to the families cared for, training and institutional support. No Patient or Public Contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe traumatic brain-injured (TBI) patients should be primarily admitted to a hub trauma center (hospital with neurosurgical capabilities) to allow immediate delivery of appropriate care in a specialized environment. Sometimes, severe TBI patients are admitted to a spoke hospital (hospital without neurosurgical capabilities), and scarce data are available regarding the optimal management of severe isolated TBI patients who do not have immediate access to neurosurgical care. Methods: A multidisciplinary consensus panel composed of 41 physicians selected for their established clinical and scientific expertise in the acute management of TBI patients with different specializations (anesthesia/intensive care, neurocritical care, acute care surgery, neurosurgery and neuroradiology) was established. The consensus was endorsed by the World Society of Emergency Surgery, and a modified Delphi approach was adopted. Results: A total of 28 statements were proposed and discussed. Consensus was reached on 22 strong recommendations and 3 weak recommendations. In three cases, where consensus was not reached, no recommendation was provided. Conclusions: This consensus provides practical recommendations to support clinician's decision making in the management of isolated severe TBI patients in centers without neurosurgical capabilities and during transfer to a hub center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Complications secondary to spilled gallstones can be classified in the category of disease of medical progress because prior to advent of laparoscopic cholecystectomy very few reports published on the topic. The aim of the present study was to investigate the predisposing factors and the complication rate of spilled gallstones during laparoscopic cholecystectomy over the past 21 years. Methods: Embase, Pubmed, Medline, Google scholar and Cochrane library were systematically searched for pertinent literature. Results: Seventy five out of 181 articles were selected including 85 patients; of those 38% were men and 62% women. The median age of the cohort was 64 years old and ranged between 33 and 87 years. Only 23(27%) of the authors reported the incident of spillage of the gallstones during the operation. Time of onset of symptoms varied widely from the second postoperative day to 15 years later. Ten of 85 patients were asymptomatic and diagnosed with spilled gallstones incidentally. The rest of the patients presented with complications of severe morbidity and almost, 87% of the patients needed to be treated with surgical intervention and 12% with US ± CT scan guidance drainage. Only one perioperative death reported. Conclusions: Symptomatic patients with lost gallstones present with severe morbidity complications and required mostly major surgical procedures. Therefore, standardisation of the management of spilled gallstones is needed urgently. Hospitals need to review their policy with audits and recommendations and clinical guidelines are needed urgently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anastomotic leak is one of the most feared complications of colorectal anastomosis. Different techniques have been described for intraoperative testing of anastomotic integrity. These include air insufflation, methylene blue and endoscopic visualisation. If an anastomotic leak is identified intraoperatively, there are various management options. Redo anastomosis is a possibility, but may be difficult in some cases. Defunctioning is another option, but there is an associated morbidity and signficant detrimental effect on quality of life. Direct transanal repair is only possible when a low anastomosis has been performed. When the anastomotic leak occurs high in the rectum or a partial mesorectal excision is performed a transanal approach is technically very challenging. We present our experience with transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) approach for anastomotic assessment and repair in four patients. In all cases, a colorectal anastomosis was performed and the air insufflation test was positive. We assessed the anastomosis with TAMIS. In three cases, a defect was found and subsequently sutured. In one case, a scar in the rectal mucosa was found and reinforced with a suture. A protective ileostomy was performed in two cases, while in the other two cases, no stoma was added. All four patients were discharged with no further complications. Both protective ileostomies were taken down after radiological and endoscopic confirmation of anastomotic integrity and all 4 anastomoses remain intact after follow-up. TAMIS intraoperative assessment and repair of anastomotic leak is a safe and feasible technique whcih may avoid the need for a defunctioning stoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) is a group of diseases characterized by an interruption of the blood supply to varying portions of the intestine, leading to ischemia and secondary inflammatory changes. If untreated, this process may progress to life-threatening intestinal necrosis. The incidence is low, estimated at 0.09–0.2% of all acute surgical admissions, but increases with age. Although the entity is an uncommon cause of abdominal pain, diligence is required because if untreated, mortality remains in the range of 50%. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are the cornerstones of modern treatment to reduce the high mortality associated with this entity. The advent of endovascular approaches in parallel with modern imaging techniques is evolving and provides new treatment options. Lastly, a focused multidisciplinary approach based on early diagnosis and individualized treatment is essential. Thus, we believe that updated guidelines from World Society of Emergency Surgery are warranted, in order to provide the most recent and practical recommendations for diagnosis and treatment of AMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to establish an objective criterion in terms of marginal bone level (MBL) to know the prognosis of an implant. Materials and Methods: A group of 176 patients in whom 590 implants were placed were included in this retrospective study. Patients older than 18 years, presenting either Kennedy class I or II edentulous section, or totally edentulous at least in one of the dental arches were included in this study. Those with any type of disturbance able to alter bone metabolism or with nontreated periodontal disease were excluded. Data on radiographic MBL at loading, 6 and 18 months later, age, gender, smoking habits, history of periodontitis, bone substratum, implant, and prosthetic features were recorded. Nonparametric receiver operating curves (ROC) were constructed for the MBL at 18 months in order to establish a distinction among high bone loser (HBL) and low bone loser (LBL) implants. Differences as a function of main variables were also determined, particularly abutment height and periodontal disease. Results: HBL implants lost at least 0.48 mm of MBL 6 months after loading; they reached at least 2 mm of MBL 18 months after loading. MBL rate followed a nonlinear trend, except in implants restored over long prosthetic abutments and in patients with history of severe periodontitis; in whom the rate of MBL over the time was nearly zero. Conclusion: Implants that lose more than 0.5 mm of marginal bone 6 months after loading are at great risk of not being radiographically successful anymore. Therefore, 0.5 mm of MBL is proposed as a distinctive and objective criterion of success in Implant Dentistry within a 6‐month follow‐up period. A prosthetic abutment height ≥2 mm resulted the most protective factor in the peri‐implant bone maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the case of a 54-year-old man who died in a motorcycle accident due to loss of control of the vehicle on a viaduct. No other vehicles were apparently involved, except for a car hit by the motorcycle after it fell. A post-mortem CT scan (computed tomography scan) was performed showing complex head trauma with a subarachnoid hemorrhage and multiple skull and facial bone fractures. A forensic cinematic reconstruction performed by an engineer was needed to exclude other incident causes other than the loss of control. The multidisciplinary approach that included autopsy findings, a cinematic reconstruction, a helmet test and an examination played a key role in clarifying the dynamics of the accident, allowing us to explain how the death occurred despite the motorcyclist's helmet use. The cause of death was identified as a penetrating head trauma with cerebral material exposure, produced by the impact of the head against a fixed bolt in the guardrail base. Despite the use of the helmet, the impact force was enough to render the protection ineffective and allowed the bolt to penetrate through the helmet and the skull. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sexual abuse of children is a serious social problem that must be prevented through distinct measures. Among them is the application of treatments to those who have already committed sex crimes in order to prevent them from committing a new one. To assess the efficacy of sexual offense treatment, the most common method has been to compare the recidivism rates of treated and untreated groups. Several meta-analyses in this regard—as well as some specific studies in Spain—have shown that the application of treatment is associated with lower recidivism rates. However, the analysis of the subjects' recidivism alone does not reveal the therapeutic changes that the treatment may elicit in them. Some international studies have evaluated the therapeutic improvements resulting from the application of treatments to men who had sexually abused children. In this context, this study explores the therapeutic changes experienced by a sample of subjects imprisoned for child abuse (N = 145), after participating in the treatment program applied in the Spanish prison system. Nine therapeutic variables were assessed (such as anxiety, cognitive distortions, impulsivity, and social self-esteem), before and after treatment, using an instrument named the Psychological Assessment Scale for Sex Offenders (PASSO). The obtained results show that most of the assessed therapeutic variables improved after treatment, with strong correlations between them. The implications of the results for treatment practice are discussed, as well as the main methodological limitations of this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses two central tensions- structure and privacy- emerged when a group of teachers developed Write Change, an online writing space that connected students in the United States, Italy, and South Korea. Topics include metaphor of walled gardens as a heuristic to support educators in facilitating online writing spaces in classrooms. Such a tool can attune educators to how these spaces are simultaneously structured and creative, semiprivate.

Landfills are a source of malodors, greenhouse gases, harmful pollutants, pests, noise, and litter. To reduce their impact on neighboring communities, landfill facilities and the policies they follow must reduce emissions of trace gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and methane (CH4). However, a comprehensive understanding of the spatial variability of both pollutants at landfills should first be established to obtain a clear picture of emissions at landfills. This study measured the mixing ratios of H2S and CH4 at two landfills in New York State (Fresh Kills Landfill and Seneca Meadows Landfill) in November 2021 using laser-based methods deployed in a mobile lab. H2S emission fluxes were estimated based on a mass balance calculation. The highest mixing ratios of both H2S and CH4 were measured at Fresh Kills Landfill, at up to 7 parts per billion (ppb) and ~140 parts per million (ppm), respectively, yet these values resulted in a low ΔH2S/ΔCH4 ratio, at approximately 5.2 ± 2.6 × 10−5 mol mol−1 and a H2S emission flux of 0.02 ± 0.01 mg m−2 day−1. The highest ΔH2S/ΔCH4 ratio was observed at the Seneca Meadows Landfill at 8.6 ± 4.3 × 10−4 mol mol−1 and yielded a H2S emission flux estimate of 17.7 ± 12.9 mg m−2-day−1. The variability in mixing ratios and ΔH2S/ΔCH4 ratios measured at the landfills can be attributed to various factors, including facility operations and design, landfill age, meteorology, types of waste, and pH levels, but further multiday measurements are needed at each landfill to improve emission estimates and determine a more accurate and resolute reasoning behind these variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of microsurgery has spread during the last decades, making resolvable many complex defects considered hitherto inapproachable. Although the small vessel diameter in children was initially considered a technical limitation, the increase in microsurgical expertise over the past three decades allowed us to manage many pediatric conditions by means of free tissue transfers. Pediatric microsurgery has been shown to be feasible, gaining a prominent place in the treatment of children affected by limb malformations, tumors, nerve injuries, and post-traumatic defects. The aim of this current concepts review is to describe the more frequent pediatric upper limb conditions in which the use of microsurgical reconstructions should be considered in the range of treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ependymal neoplasms occur at all ages and encompass multiple tumor types and subtypes that develop in the supratentorial compartment, the posterior fossa, or the spinal cord. Clinically, ependymomas represent a very heterogeneous group of tumors from rather benign subependymomas to very aggressive and often deadly childhood ependymomas of the posterior fossa. Newly identified biological markers and classification schemes, e. g. based on global DNA methylation profiling, have led to the definition of 10 types of ependymal tumors and an improved prediction of patients' outcome by applying the new classification system. While the exact genetic basis for several ependymoma types still remains unclear, the knowledge about ependymoma driving events has significantly increased within the last decade and contributed to a classification based on molecular characteristics and localization rather than histological features alone. Convincing evidence is now pointing towards gene fusions involving ZFTA or YAP1 causing the development of supratentorial ependymomas. Also, H3, EZHIP, or TERT mutations have been detected in a fraction of infratentorial ependymal tumors. Finally, MYCN amplifications have recently been identified in spinal ependymomas, in addition to the previously known mutations in NF2. This review summarizes how recent findings regarding biology, molecular tumor typing, and clinical outcome have impacted the classification of ependymomas as suggested by the updated 2021 WHO CNS tumor classification system. We focus on changes compared to the previous classification of 2016 and discuss how a formal grading could evolve in the future and guide clinicians to treat ependymoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last few years, Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems have become increasingly widespread. Unfortunately, these systems can share many biases with human decision-making, including demographic biases. Often, these biases can be traced back to the data used for training, where large uncurated datasets have become the norm. Despite our awareness of these biases, we still lack general tools to detect, quantify, and compare them across different datasets. In this work, we propose DSAP (Demographic Similarity from Auxiliary Profiles), a two-step methodology for comparing the demographic composition of datasets. First, DSAP uses existing demographic estimation models to extract a dataset's demographic profile. Second, it applies a similarity metric to compare the demographic profiles of different datasets. While these individual components are well-known, their joint use for demographic dataset comparison is novel and has not been previously addressed in the literature. This approach allows three key applications: the identification of demographic blind spots and bias issues across datasets, the measurement of demographic bias, and the assessment of demographic shifts over time. DSAP can be used on datasets with or without explicit demographic information, provided that demographic information can be derived from the samples using auxiliary models, such as those for image or voice datasets. To show the usefulness of the proposed methodology, we consider the Facial Expression Recognition task, where demographic bias has previously been found. The three applications are studied over a set of twenty datasets with varying properties. The code is available at https://github.com/irisdominguez/DSAP. • DSAP compares datasets to detect demographic blindspots and biases. • DSAP measures representational, evenness, and stereotypical biases. • DSAP detects demographic shifts between training and testing datasets. • Validated on FER datasets, identifying similar groups and blindspots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Case: The aim of the article is to report on a case of a teenager affected by Madelung deformity treated with a double osteotomy, planned by means of a 3D model. Using a custom-made cutting guide, the radial osteotomy was performed, and after the reorientation, a shortening ulnar osteotomy completed the procedure. Postoperative clinical assessment showed a normal alignment of the ulna with increased range of motion wrist motion. Conclusions: Using a 3D model when planning a multidirectional correction of a Madelung deformity may be advantageous to achieve a more accurate and precise realignment of the carpus and distal radioulnar joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anterior commissure (AC) is one of the main commissural fibers of the brain. The commissural fibers are involved in bilateral integration and coordination of any normal brain activity. The AC is an important interhemispheric structure that forms a bidirectional communication channel between the frontal, temporal, parietal, and occipital lobes bilaterally. In the present study, we focused on describing the morphology, relationships, and distribution of the AC using diffusion spectrum imaging-based fiber tracking. The tractograms were compared with the findings from gross anatomical dissection of the AC of adult brains. Our findings suggest that the AC found using tracking methods is larger than that found by dissection. The use of tractography added extensions to the main AC structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an exceptionally aggressive brain tumor with a dismal prognosis, demanding fast and precise classification as a base for patient-specific treatment strategies. Here, we report on an adolescent patient with a histologically bona fide GBM that shows a molecular methylation profile suggesting a low-grade glioma-like subgroup. Despite an early relapse, intolerance of temozolomide, and change of treatment strategy to vinblastine and valproic acid (VPA), the patient is now in good clinical condition after more than 5 years since initial diagnosis. This case stresses the merit of methylation array data for clinical prognosis and treatment planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Cyberchondria is a term used to refer to excessive surfing the web looking for health care information, excessive checking behavior being related to health-related anxiety. This period of quarantine for the Covid-19 pandemic is increasing the pathological use of the internet, and the excessive surfing the web looking for health care information. Another dimension related to the Covid-19 outbreak refers to uncertainty intolerance, for this reason being necessary for the healthcare professionals to provide clear and linear information. Aim. The aim of this review is to identify the psychological correlations connected to cyberchondria in the quarantine period. Methods. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we carried out a systematic review of the literature on PubMed. The terms used for the search were "Cyberchondria" OR "Anxiety" AND "Quarantine". Results. As resulting from the reviewed literature, there is a relationship between anxiety for one's own state of health and cyberchondria, with negative psychological effects of quarantine, including post-traumatic stress symptoms, depression, anxiety, low mood, irritability, insomnia, uncertainty, emotional exhaustion, this condition being associated with hypervigilance, and catastrophic misinterpretation of bodily signs. Conclusion. In the light of this and according to the literature, it would be desirable that research can further explore the factors influencing the increase in cyberchondria in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) represent a central pillar of the third wave of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In recent years, MBI have been implemented in treating patients with psychotic disorders, and their efficacy has been evaluated in a small number of randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). This narrative review presents the current state of research on the efficacy and effectiveness, as well as central aspects of the clinical applications of MBI in the treatment of patients with schizophrenia and primary psychotic disorders. Current meta-analyses show different results but concur that in comparison to controls with treatment-as-usual (TAU) and in Pre-Post-Analyses, MBI show promising results in reducing the, in regards to pharmacotherapy, difficult to treat negative (g = 0.56 and g = 0.75) and positive symptoms (g = 0.19 and g = 0.32) with effect sizes between small and large. In addition, MBI can lead to positive effects on depressive and anxiety symptoms (g = 0.20 and g = 0.43) and contribute to a long-term reduction in re-hospitalization rates 12 months post-discharge and a shortening of the duration of inpatient treatment. In contrast to psychotherapy research from the UK, Australia, and Hong Kong, the scientific evaluation and implementation of mindfulness-based treatment options in the entire German-speaking area are still in the early stages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Achtsamkeitsbasierte Interventionen (AI) stellen mittlerweile eine zentrale Säule der dritten Welle der Kognitiven Verhaltenstherapie dar. In den letzten Jahren wurden AI bei Patient*innen mit psychotischen Störungen implementiert und deren Wirksamkeit im Rahmen von einer kleineren Anzahl von randomisiert-kontrollierten Studien (RCTs) gezeigt. Der vorliegende narrative Übersichtsartikel stellt den aktuellen Stand der Forschung zur Effektivität, sowie zentrale As-pekte der klinischen Anwendungen von AI bei der Behandlung von Patient*innen mit Schizophrenien und primären psychotischen Störungen dar. Aus aktuellen Metaanalysen lässt sich trotz der Heterogenität der Studienergebnisse schlussfolgern, dass AI im Rahmen von RCTs des Vergleichs einer Kontrollgruppe mit einer gewöhnlichen zumeist psychopharmakologischen Behandlung (treatment-as-usual, TAU) und in Prä-Post-Intervention Analysen zu einer Verbesserung der oft schwer zu behandelnden Negativsymptomatik (g = 0,56 und g = 0,75) oder Positivsymptomatik (g = 0,19 und g = 0,32) mit leichten bis großen Effektstärken führen können. Weiterhin wurden auch positive Effekte auf depressive und ängstliche Symptome (g = 0,20 und g = 0,43), sowie eine Reduktion der Rehospitalisierungsraten 12 Monate nach Entlassung und eine Verkürzung der stationä-ren Behandlungsdauer beobachtet. Im Gegensatz zur Therapieforschung aus dem Vereinigten Königreich, Australien oder Hong Kong befinden sich die wissenschaftliche Evaluation und Implementierung von achtsamkeitsbasierten Behandlungsmöglichkeiten im gesamten deutschsprachigen Raum noch in einem frühen Stadium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Not all pregnant women seem to select the more curved lumbopelvic posture that their sexual dimorphic anatomy allows even though many previous researchers have assumed lumbopelvic curvature to be standard during pregnancy. This study is vital to understanding coevolution of lumbopelvic sexual dimorphism and bipedalism, and understanding some clinical implications of intervening in gestational posture changes.Research Questions: Are there anthropometric changes that correspond with selection of lumbopelvic curvature change during pregnancy? What are the biomechanical costs and benefits of gestational lumbopelvic curvature change?Methods: Twenty pregnant women were tested at five different times in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. Lumbopelvic posture, standing kinetics and gait kinetics were measured longitudinally. Additionally, we modeled the effects on standing and gait without lumbopelvic postural changes, but with anthropometric changes, for each individual.Results: We found greater lumbopelvic angulation to correspond with a shorter body height (6 cm difference between groups, p = 0.048) and deeper 2nd trimester abdomen (2 cm difference between groups, p = 0.013). Lumbopelvic angulation lowers support requirements (in standing and walking (6% lower support impulse, p = 0.056), but at the cost of shifting the propulsive actions to a less efficient pulling action rather than pushoff (13 % reduction in pushoff time, p = 0.001). We observed minimal effects on walking kinematics and balance control.Significance: Our findings suggest the evolutionary advantage of the female lumbopelvic unit is the adaptability it provides to adjust for the individual needs of the pregnant woman. We discuss multiple potential contributing factors that may have shaped hominin female lumbopelvic evolution and are involved in self-selecting lumbopelvic posture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Che-1/AATF (Che-1) is an RNA polymerase II binding protein involved in several cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis and response to stress. We have recently demonstrated that Che-1 is able to promote cell proliferation by sustaining global histone acetylation in multiple myeloma (MM) cells where it interacts with histone proteins and competes with HDAC class I members for binding. Methods: Site-directed Mutagenesis was performed to generate a Che-1 mutant (Che-1 3S) lacking three serine residues (Ser316, Ser320 and Ser321) in 308–325 aa region. Western blot experiments were conducted to examine the effect of depletion or over-expression of Che-1 and Che-1 3S mutant on histone acetylation, in different human cancer cell lines. Proliferation assays were assessed to estimate the change in cells number when Che-1 was over-expressed or deleted. Immunoprecipitation assays were performed to evaluate Che-1/histone H3 interaction when Ser316, Ser320 and Ser321 were removed. The involvement of CK2 kinase in Che-1 phosphorylation at these residues was analysed by in vitro kinase, 2D gel electrophoresis assays and mass spectrometry analysis. Results: Here, we confirmed that Che-1 depletion reduces cell proliferation with a concomitant general histone deacetylation in several tumor cell lines. Furthermore, we provided evidence that CK2 protein kinase phosphorylates Che-1 at Ser316, Ser320 and Ser321 and that these modifications are required for Che-1/histone H3 binding. These results improve our understanding onto the mechanisms by which Che-1 regulates histone acetylation and cell proliferation. Conclusions: Che-1 phosphorylation at Ser316, Ser320 and Ser321 by CK2 promotes the interaction with histone H3 and represents an essential requirement for Che-1 pro-proliferative ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An ultrasonic dissector was used for parenchymal transection by the surgeon at the table, dissecting the liver parenchyma while preserving vessels and biliary branches that were then coagulated or clipped according to their size. Diffusion, outcomes and implementation of minimally invasive liver surgery: a snapshot from the I Go MILS (Italian Group of Minimally Invasive Liver Surgery) Registry. Traditionally in liver surgery (and especially in laparoscopic approach), the procedure is leaded by the first surgeon, handling the instrumentation for parenchymal dissection (including an ultrasonic dissector, energy device, and bipolar forceps). [Extracted from the article]

Bile duct injury (BDI) is a dangerous complication of cholecystectomy, with significant postoperative sequelae for the patient in terms of morbidity, mortality, and long-term quality of life. BDIs have an estimated incidence of 0.4–1.5%, but considering the number of cholecystectomies performed worldwide, mostly by laparoscopy, surgeons must be prepared to manage this surgical challenge. Most BDIs are recognized either during the procedure or in the immediate postoperative period. However, some BDIs may be discovered later during the postoperative period, and this may translate to delayed or inappropriate treatments. Providing a specific diagnosis and a precise description of the BDI will expedite the decision-making process and increase the chance of treatment success. Subsequently, the choice and timing of the appropriate reconstructive strategy have a critical role in long-term prognosis. Currently, a wide spectrum of multidisciplinary interventions with different degrees of invasiveness is indicated for BDI management. These World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) guidelines have been produced following an exhaustive review of the current literature and an international expert panel discussion with the aim of providing evidence-based recommendations to facilitate and standardize the detection and management of BDIs during cholecystectomy. In particular, the 2020 WSES guidelines cover the following key aspects: (1) strategies to minimize the risk of BDI during cholecystectomy; (2) BDI rates in general surgery units and review of surgical practice; (3) how to classify, stage, and report BDI once detected; (4) how to manage an intraoperatively detected BDI; (5) indications for antibiotic treatment; (6) indications for clinical, biochemical, and imaging investigations for suspected BDI; and (7) how to manage a postoperatively detected BDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NF2 patients with intracranial tumors were 10.9 years old on average, as compared to 19.4 years in NF2 patients with spinal ependymoma (SP-EPN) and 41 years in patients with SP-EPN without reported NF2 [[3]]. Together, our data indicate that the spectrum of CNS tumors in NF2 patients includes ependymomas of different types and localizations. [Extracted from the article]

Deficient expression of mismatch repair proteins (MMR) has been suggested to be a predictor of resistance of atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH) and early endometrial carcinoma (EEC) to conservative treatment. To assess the predictive value of MMR immunohistochemistry in patients conservatively treated for AEH and EEC, and to calculate its predictive accuracy. All patients with AEH or EEC conservatively treated with hysteroscopic resection plus progestins in two referral centers from January 2004 to July 2019 were retrospectively assessed. Immunohistochemistry for MMR was ad hoc performed. Study outcomes were: (i) the association of a deficient immunohistochemical expression of MMR with resistance and recurrence of AEH and EEC after conservative treatment, and (ii) the accuracy of MMR immunohistochemistry in predicting the outcome of conservative treatment. Relative risk (RR) for the associations, and sensitivity, specificity and area under the curve (AUC) on receiver operating characteristic curve for the predictive accuracy were calculated. Sixty-nine women, (47 AEH and 22 EEC) were included; deficient MMR expression was observed in 8.7% of cases. Resistance to conservative treatment was more common in MMR-deficient than MMR-proficient cases (33.3% vs 15.9%; RR = 2.1), but with no statistical significance (p = 0.2508). On the other hand, recurrence was significantly more common in MMR-deficient than MMR-proficient cases (100% vs 26.4%; RR = 3.8; p < 0.0001). In predicting recurrence, a deficient immunohistochemical expression of MMR showed sensitivity = 22.2%, specificity = 100%, and AUC = 0.61. Deficient MMR immunohistochemical expression does not imply resistance of AEH/EEC to conservative treatment. On the other hand, MMR-deficiency appears as a highly specific predictor of recurrence of AEH/EEC after initial regression. • AEH and EEC with MMR deficiency previously appeared to be resistant to progestins • MMR-deficiency does not predict resistance of AEH/EEC to hysteroscopic resection plus progestin • MMR-deficiency predicts AEH/EEC recurrence with 100% specificity • In young patients with AEH/EEC, hysteroscopic resection plus progestin might provide a window period to attempt pregnancy • MMR-deficient patients with AEH/EEC should be closely and carefully followed due to the high risk of recurrence [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The term Idiopathic Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome (ISCLS) refers to an uncommon condition of severe distributive shock, resulting from an abrupt shift of fluids and proteins from the intravascular to the interstitial compartment. We hypothesise that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) fails in regulating the response to hypovolemia in acute ISCLS and that ANS variables characterise the progression to the recovery. Design: Prospective cohort study of patients admitted to ICU for severe ISCLS flares. Setting: Single, referral center in Italy for ISCLS. Patients: Analysis of cardiovascular signals recorded during seven severe ISCLS attacks and one prodromal period in five patients. Interventions: ANS was studied non-invasively by means of heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure variability analysis, as an estimation of vagal and sympathetic modulation directed to the heart and vessels. Heart rate and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) variability were also used to assess baroreflex sensitivity. ANS variables were measured during the subsequent phases which characterise ISCLS flares, namely the acute phase, the post-acute phase, and the recovery phase. Measurements and main results: HRV was severely depressed during the acute phase accounting for the loss of ANS modulation during massive capillary extravasation. This phase was characterised by shock and impaired baroreflex control, which allowed SAP to oscillate driven by respiratory activity. Impending shock and transition from shock to a post-acute phase were marked by change of baroreflex spectral variables. The baroreflex control was fully restored during recovery. Conclusions: ANS modulation and baroreflex control are severely impaired during the acute haemodynamic instability which characterises ISCLS crises and their progressive restoration may be a clue of improvement. ANS indices during ISCLS flares might serve as useful biomarkers, able to timely announce the transition from one phase to the subsequent one, thus helping to adapt therapy accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) of the upper limb are a common event in the paediatric population, following both fractures and soft tissues injuries. Open injuries should in theory be easier to identify and the repair of injured structures performed as soon as possible in order to obtain a satisfying outcome. Conversely, due to the reduced compliance of younger children during clinical assessment, the diagnosis of a closed nerve injury may sometimes be delayed. As the compliance of patients is influenced by pain, anxiety and stress, the execution of the clinical manoeuvres intended to identify a loss of motor function or sensibility, can be impaired. Although the majority of PNI are neuroapraxias resulting in spontaneous recovery, there are open questions regarding certain aspects of closed PNI, e.g. when to ask for electrophysiological exams, when and how long to wait for a spontaneous recovery and when a surgical approach becomes mandatory. The aim of the article is therefore to analyse the main aspects of the different closed PNI of the upper limb in order to provide recommendations for timely and correct management, and to determine differences in the PNI treatment between children and adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dynamic balance control degrades during pregnancy, but it is not yet understood why. Mechanical aspects of the body should directly affect walking balance control, but we have recently published papers indicating that weight gains during pregnancy explain very little dynamic balance changes. Our goal was to determine if lower extremity joint kinematic changes are an indicator of walking balance control. This information is vital to understanding the route by which pregnancy increases fall risk.Methods: Twenty-three pregnant women were tested at five different times in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. Participants performed walking trials at a self-selected pace. Motion capture was used to measure joint kinematics (discrete and coordination variables) and body center of mass motion. Changes over time were statistically analyzed. Correlations between kinematics and walking balance were modelled with hierarchical multiple regression models.Results: As pregnancy progresses, it appears that a more flexed hip posture could be driving lower extremity kinematic changes toward increased coordination between joints and increased knee and ankle motions. Walking balance changes were also detected through increased COM motion (lateral range of motion and velocity) in the lateral directions. However, there was little correlation between kinematic and balance changes (r2 < 0.4). Strong correlations were only observed when all kinematics (including those that don't ubiquitously change during pregnancy) were used in the regression model (r2 > 0.7).Significance: Our findings suggest that walking balance control is not altered by a common kinematic change between all pregnant women. While increased lateral center of mass motion should be expected with pregnancy, the kinematics leading to this increase may be person-specific. The cause of dynamic imbalance in each pregnant women (physiological, mechanical, and neurocognitive) may play an important role in determining the kinematic means by which lateral center of mass motion increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the severe repercussions a sex offence victim suffers, the prevention, treatment and community reintegration of sexual offenders is a priority for most of the societies around the world. Firstly, this study reviews the current state of sex offenders' treatment programs applied over the previous decades in the Spanish prisons and then reviews the main results found from the effectiveness of the intervention. The effectiveness of these programs has been traditionally assessed through several recidivism measurement of treated sex offenders; and more recently throughout the therapeutic change of the offender's main risk factors such as attitudes and justifications of violence, aggressiveness, social skills difficulties, etc. Secondly, this paper introduces the recent treatment innovations used with sex offenders within the community. Their aim is to improve the social reintegration of sex offenders into the community and thus prevent them from harming new victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a reanalysis of the latest results from CMS dijet searches for an integrated luminosity of together with preliminary results for in the framework of simplified models for dark matter interacting with quarks through the exchange of a scalar, pseudoscalar, vector or pseudovector mediator particle. Within the same framework, we also project the sensitivity of dijet searches in future LHC runs and study how well the parameters of a simplified model could be reconstructed in case of a future discovery at the high luminosity (HL) LHC. Finally, we explore the possibility of discriminating different mediator scenarios by extending the sensitivity of dijet searches for simplified models through the use of angular information. It is the first time that these studies are performed systematically for the case of spin 0 mediators. Among other results we find: (1) no evidence for a dijet signal in the simplified model framework; (2) improvements due to an increased luminosity at the HL-LHC are significant, but mostly for heavy mediators, where dijet searches are limited by statistical, rather than systematical uncertainties; (3) Information on the angular separation of dijets could be used at the HL-LHC to discriminate different mediator scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Idiopathic systemic capillary leak syndrome (ISCLS), also known as Clarkson's disease, is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition characterized by episodes of plasma leakage from blood vessels into tissues, leading to shock and organ failure. The underlying mechanisms of ISCLS are not well understood, but it is believed to involve hypersensitivity of capillaries to inflammatory or immune triggers. Recent research suggests that the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) pathway may play a role in ISCLS, but further investigation is needed to fully understand its involvement. A study found that the reactive hyperemia response, which is modulated by nitric oxide synthesis, appeared unaffected in ISCLS patients during the intercritical period, suggesting that the role of the nitric oxide pathway may not be straightforward in vivo. More research is needed to explore the complex interplay of different pathways involved in ISCLS. [Extracted from the article]

Background Pain sensitivity in chronic neck pain patients may be influenced by health conditions related to higher levels of widespread pressure pain hypersensitivity (sensitization). Trigger points have also been reported to play a role in the sensitization process. Objectives To investigate the association between pressure pain thresholds, trigger points, and health conditions in patients with chronic neck pain. Design Original research, preliminary study. Setting A private clinic. Subjects Thirty-four chronic mechanical neck pain patients and 34 chronic whiplash-associated neck pain patients, giving a final sample of 68 chronic neck pain patients. Methods Patients underwent an assessment of pressure pain thresholds over the upper trapezius, extensor carpi radialis longus, and tibialis anterior muscles and were screened for the presence of trigger points in the upper trapezius muscle. Further, information about health history conditions was obtained and collected in a form. Results Significantly negative correlations between all pressure pain thresholds and duration of health history conditions were found (all P  < 0.02). Significantly lower pressure pain thresholds (all P  < 0.01) were found in patients with active trigger points as compared with those with latent trigger points. Conclusion Widespread pressure pain hypersensitivity was associated with duration of health history conditions, suggesting that long-lasting health complaints may act as a triggering/perpetuating factor, driving sensitization in individuals with chronic neck pain. Active trigger points may be associated with higher widespread pressure hypersensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is focused on the effect of different cooking conditions on the antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, of Oryza sativa L. 'Violet Nori', a new black rice cultivar. 10 different cooking tests were performed. The selected cooking conditions allowed to evaluate the effect of boiling, roasting, oven cooking, risotto cooking, and oriental cooking. The total anthocyanins amounts were evaluated by both a spectrophotometric pH differential method and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), together with the Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and the Radical Scavenging Activity (RSA). The obtained results showed that boiling with a low water amount (100 g rice/650 mL water) and oriental cooking, which allows a reduction of boiling times thanks to the lid of the pot, allow effectively saving at least part of their anthocyanins content. Similar results were obtained by boiling if rice was introduced in cold or boiling water, but on the contrary a ratio of 100 g rice/1000 mL water greatly enhanced the loss of antioxidant compounds. Risotto and oven cooking allowed obtaining results that were roughly intermediate between the 'best' and the 'worst' results. A high correlation existed between the amounts of total anthocyanins and both TPCs and RSAs. The 'best' results show that although cooking necessarily decreases the rice content of valuable antioxidants, a careful choice of the operative conditions allows effectively preserving amounts of total anthocyanins higher than 100 mg/100 g rice portion, which are close to or even higher than in other well-known sources of dietetic anthocyanins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains the leading cause of cancer death; percutaneous thermal ablation (TA) has proven feasibility, good local control and good tolerance in stage I tumors for patients with medical comorbidities and who are ineligible for surgery. In this context, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) has demonstrated high efficacy in treating T1 NSCLC and will need to be compared with percutaneous ablation. TA is also indicated in oligoprogressive disease; and can be proposed as a salvage treatment option for tumor recurrence after radiotherapy. Besides more advanced NSCLC could be also an indication of TA in combination with systemic treatments. A large majority of diagnosed NSCLC do not exhibit specific targetable genetic aberration. Those tumors present poorer prognosis and have been treated with standard chemotherapy regimen until the recent development of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) based immunotherapy. Combining TA with immunotherapy is promising and still needs to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim of this review article is to evaluate the percentage of ulnar nerve lesion during cross-pinning considering the patient's position (supine or prone) on the surgical bed. Comprehensive research was performed by searching in PUBMED, Cochrane Library, ISI Web of Science, SCOPUS and Clinicaltrials.gov from 2005. Children with extension type supracondylar humeral fractures without clinical signs of ulnar nerve lesion at presentation were included. A total of 28 papers were examined including 2147 patients; 1541 underwent a closed reduction and cross-pinning in supine position and 606 in prone position. Among 1541 patients in supine position, 69 (4.5%) suffered from a ulnar nerve injury while among the 606 patients treated in prone position none ulnar nerve lesions were reported. Despite the apparent safety of prone position, further larger studies, comparing the patient's position on the surgical bed, need to be carried out in order to confirm this likelihood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common type of arrhythmia in the general population with a prevalence that reaches one third of patients with arterial hypertension. Several risk factors frequently associated with hypertension predispose the myocardium to AF by inducing atrial inflammation and fibrosis and altering atrial electrical and mechanical characteristics. AF influences the quality of life of hypertensive patients since it increases incidence of stroke and other thromboembolic events, and mortality. Polyunsaturated fatty acids of the ω-3 family (ω-3 PUFA) have been demonstrated to be beneficial in cardiovascular disease prevention by reducing plasma lipids and blood pressure levels and decreasing the risk of sudden death. These fatty acids can act as potent anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic agents. Many studies have investigated a possible preventive effect of ω-3 PUFA on incident AF reporting contradictory results. This article overviews the evidence currently available on this important topic and provides some conclusive remarks on the possibility that these fatty acids could be beneficial in hypertensive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]