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Recently, phytochemicals play an important role in cancer management. Curcumin (CUR), a natural phytochemical, has been co-administered with widespread chemotherapeutic agents such as doxorubicin (DOX) due to its excellent antitumor activity and the ability to lower the adverse reactions and drug resistance cells associated with DOX use. The present study aims to determine DOX and CUR utilizing a label-free, selective, sensitive, and precise synchronous spectrofluorimetric method. The obvious overlap between the emission spectra of DOX and CUR prevents simultaneous estimation of both analytes by conventional spectrofluorimetry. To solve such a problem, synchronous spectrofluorimetric measurements were recorded at Δλ = 20 nm, utilizing ethanol as a diluting solvent. Curcumin was recorded at 442.5 nm, whereas DOX was estimated at 571.5 nm, each at the zero-crossing point of the other one. The developed method exhibited linearity over a concentration range of 0.04–0.40 μg/mL for CUR and 0.05–0.50 μg/mL for DOX, respectively. The values of limit of detection (LOD) were 0.009 and 0.012 µg/mL, while the values of limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.028 and 0.037 µg/mL for CUR and DOX, respectively. The adopted approach was carefully validated according to the guidelines of ICH Q2R1. The method was utilized to estimate CUR and DOX in laboratory-prepared mixtures and human biological matrices. It showed a high percentage of recoveries with minimal RSD values. Additionally, three different tools were utilized to evaluate the greenness of the proposed approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the setting of Carnot groups, we propose an approach of taming singularities to get coercive inequalities. To this end, we develop a technique to introduce natural singularities in the energy function U in order to force one of the coercivity conditions. In particular, we explore explicit constructions of probability measures on Carnot groups which secure Poincaré and even Logarithmic Sobolev inequalities. As applications, we get analogues of the Dyson–Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model on the Heisenberg group and obtain results on the discreteness of the spectrum of related Markov generators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The principle of modal continuity has become an increasingly popular bit of modal epistemology, featuring prominently in debates about mereology, value, causation, and theism. It claims, roughly, that degreed properties are modally unified. So, if the property of being three inches tall is exemplifiable, so is the property of being four inches tall, and five inches tall, etc. Despite its plausibility, in this paper I show that there is a class of counterexamples to modal continuity: what I call ‘powered properties.’ More surprisingly, I show that an instance of these powered properties is entailed by another widely popular family of modal principles: the Lewisian patchwork principles, also known as cut-and-paste, or recombination, principles. Thus, despite appearing to be similar, and motivated by plenitudinous intuitions about the nature of modality, it turns out that the continuity and recombination approaches to modality rely on crucially different pictures of plenitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large body of work has highlighted the role of disgust in contamination-related OCD. However, there appears to be a lack of research examining the potential cognitive mechanisms through which disgust may potentiate symptoms of contamination fear. Research has shown that the "feared self" may be a cognitive factor involved in the development of OCD symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the potential mediating effects of feared possible selves in the associations between disgust propensity (DP), disgust sensitivity (DS) and symptoms of contamination fear. A sample of 412 undergraduate participants completed measures of DP and DS, feared possible selves, and symptoms of both contact and mental contamination. Using path analysis, the results indicated that while DP was a significant predictor of contact and mental contamination, DS predicted both contamination symptom domains via the mediating effect of the "feared corrupted self". Notably, the association between DS and mental contamination was fully mediated by the "feared corrupted self". These findings highlight the role of the "feared corrupted self" in misappraisals of disgust and shed light on the relevance of assessing and targeting feared possible selves in the treatment of disgust in contamination fear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Associations between brain and obesity are bidirectional: changes in brain structure and function underpin over-eating, while chronic adiposity leads to brain atrophy. Investigating brain-obesity interactions across the lifespan can help better understand these relationships. This study explores the interaction between obesity and cortical morphometry in children, young adults, adults, and older adults. We also investigate the genetic, neurochemical, and cognitive correlates of the brain-obesity associations. Our findings reveal a pattern of lower cortical thickness in fronto-temporal brain regions associated with obesity across all age cohorts and varying age-dependent patterns in the remaining brain regions. In adults and older adults, obesity correlates with neurochemical changes and expression of inflammatory and mitochondrial genes. In children and older adults, adiposity is associated with modifications in brain regions involved in emotional and attentional processes. Thus, obesity might originate from cognitive changes during early adolescence, leading to neurodegeneration in later life through mitochondrial and inflammatory mechanisms. This study reveals that obesity-related brain changes evolve across the lifespan and involve mitochondrial and inflammatory genes, as well as neurochemical and cognitive alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over 50 million Americans endure chronic pain where many do not receive adequate treatment and self-medicate to manage their pain by taking substances like opioids and cannabis. Research has shown high comorbidity between chronic pain and substance use disorders (SUD) and these disorders share many common neurobiological underpinnings, including hypodopaminergic transmission. Drugs commonly used for self-medication such as opioids and cannabis relieve emotional, bothersome components of pain as well as negative emotional affect that perpetuates misuse and increases the risk of progressing towards drug abuse. However, the causal effect between chronic pain and the development of SUDs has not been clearly established. In this review, we discuss evidence that affirms the proposition that chronic pain is a risk factor for the development of opioid and cannabis use disorders by outlining the clinical evidence and detailing neurobiological mechanisms that link pain and drug misuse. Central to the link between chronic pain and opioid and cannabis misuse is hypodopaminergic transmission and the modulation of dopamine signaling in the mesolimbic pathway by opioids and cannabis. Moreover, we discuss the role of kappa opioid receptor activation and neuroinflammation in the context of dopamine transmission, their contribution to opioid and cannabis withdrawal, along with potential new treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Following marketing authorization in Japan, for almost all new drugs or new indications, postmarketing studies (PMS) are a regulatory requirement. These PMS focus on accrual of a defined number of cases with data being collected for a predetermined period after approval to confirm efficacy/effectiveness, safety, and quality in the Japanese population. In contrast to other regions where PMS are only required to address a specific scientific uncertainty, in Japan, PMS are often required regardless of any specific scientific uncertainty, and therefore, their scientific value is unclear. Objectives: To determine the contribution to the understanding of benefit/risk of PMS conducted by Pfizer in Japan over 2000–2020 for Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) reexamination. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all Pfizer Japan postmarketing studies (PMS) during 2000–2020 was performed. Available Pfizer clinical study reports (CSRs) and PMDA reexamination reports (RERs) were reviewed for key safety findings. The primary analysis was conducted on the subset of PMS that had both an English CSR and a discussion of that PMS in the relevant RER issued by the PMDA, which was subsequently translated into English by a professional translation vendor. Reexamination outcome is included in each RER and served to demonstrate the impact of the study of the benefit/risk profile of the drug. Results: A total of 79 PMS for 43 different drug products across therapy areas enrolled a total of 98,035 patients. The 79 PMS comprised 34 general drug use investigation (GDUI) studies and 45 special investigation (SI) studies. The primary analysis involved 37 PMS with a CSR and RER available in English (40,470 patients); all of which were observational in design. For 31 of 37 PMS, the RER concluded the overall adverse drug reaction (ADR) rate in the PMS was nominally lower than in the phase 3 program. Unlabeled ADRs were reported in 28 of 37 PMS; however, no new safety concerns requiring regulatory action arose from any PMS. The PMDA did not require additional risk minimization measures for any of the 43 drug products studied in any of the 79 PMS assessed. Japan PMS data were consistent with prior global data with no evidence of clinically meaningful differences in safety in Japanese patients. In all cases, the reexamination outcome was category 1 ("usefulness is confirmed"). Conclusions: The reexamination process did not result in regulatory changes for any of the examined drugs. The Japan new-drug application (J-NDA) review and approval process, including implementation of the initial Japan product label, assures acceptable benefit/risk at the time of approval such that mandatory GDUI or SI studies for all products should be reconsidered. In the case of genuine scientific uncertainty to the extent that the benefit/risk of the product is not clear, a PMS is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study was to validate a scale that could help surgeons evaluate patients' psychological readiness to return to sport (RTS) after peroneal tendon pathology surgery. Methods: The Ankle Ligament Reconstruction‐Return to Sport after Injury (ALR‐RSI) scale, which had previously been validated in ankle ligament reconstruction patients, was adapted to evaluate the psychological preparedness for RTS in athletic patients who underwent peroneal tendinopathy surgery. The Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot Ankle Ability Measurement (FAAM) scores were employed as patient‐related outcome measurement (PROM) instruments. Results: This study included 57 patients. There was a strong correlation between ALR‐RSI and both FAOS and FAAM (r = −0.68 and 0.74, respectively). ALR‐RSI was considerably higher in patients who returned to sports than in those who did not. The mean score was 72.9 ± 19.0 in patients who returned to the same preinjury level, 48.5 ± 24.0 in those who returned to a lower level and 53.6 ± 31.1 in patients who changed their athletic activity (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, ALR‐RSI showed at least a similar discrimination ability when compared to FAOS and FAAM. The test–retest intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.95. The Cronbach's α statistic used to measure the internal consistency was high (0.95). A Youden index of 0.65 was observed for a cut‐off score of 68 points. Conclusion: ALR‐RSI is a valid instrument for assessing psychological readiness to RTS in an athletic population following peroneal tendon surgery. When compared to the most commonly used PROMs, it was strongly correlated and demonstrated at least similar discrimination capacity. This could assist surgeons in identifying athletes who will have poor postoperative results and advising them on their capability to RTS. Level of Evidence: Level III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Language barriers (LB) contribute to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) health inequities. People with LB were more likely to be SARS-CoV-2 positive despite lower testing and had higher rates of hospitalization. Data on hospital outcomes among immigrants with LB, however, are limited. We aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 cases by LB, immigration status, ethnicity, and access to COVID-19 health information and services prior to admission. Adults with laboratory-confirmed community-acquired COVID-19 hospitalized from March 1 to June 30, 2020, at four tertiary-care hospitals in Montréal, Quebec, Canada were included. Demographics, comorbidities, immigration status, country of birth, ethnicity, presence of LB, and hospital outcomes (ICU admission and death) were obtained through a chart review. Additional socio-economic and access to care questions were obtained through a phone survey. A Fine-Gray competing risk subdistribution hazards model was used to estimate the risk of ICU admission and in-hospital death by immigrant status, region of birth and LB Among 1093 patients, 622 (56.9%) were immigrants and 101 (16.2%) of them had a LB. One third (36%) of immigrants with LB did not have access to an interpreter during hospitalization. Admission to ICU and in-hospital mortality were not significantly different between groups. Prior to admission, one third (14/41) of immigrants with LB had difficulties accessing COVID-19 information in their mother tongue and one third (9/27) of non-white immigrants with a LB had difficulties accessing COVID-19 services. Immigrants with LB were inequitably affected by the first wave of the pandemic in Quebec, Canada. In our study, a large proportion had difficulties accessing information and services related to COVID-19 prior to admission, which may have increased SARS-CoV-2 exposure and hospitalizations. After hospitalization, a large proportion did not have access to interpreters. Providing medical information and care in the language of preference of increasing diverse populations in Canada is important for promoting health equity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this study we gathered and analyzed the available evidence regarding 17 different imaging modalities and performed network meta-analysis to find the most effective modality for the differentiation between brain tumor recurrence and post-treatment radiation effects. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive systematic search on PubMed and Embase. The quality of eligible studies was assessed using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2) instrument. For each meta-analysis, we recalculated the effect size, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and diagnostic odds ratio from the individual study data provided in the original meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Imaging technique comparisons were then assessed using NMA. Ranking was assessed using the multidimensional scaling approach and by visually assessing surface under the cumulative ranking curves. Results: We identified 32 eligible studies. High confidence in the results was found in only one of them, with a substantial heterogeneity and small study effect in 21% and 9% of included meta-analysis respectively. Comparisons between MRS Cho/NAA, Cho/Cr, DWI, and DSC were most studied. Our analysis showed MRS (Cho/NAA) and 18F-DOPA PET displayed the highest sensitivity and negative likelihood ratios. 18-FET PET was ranked highest among the 17 studied techniques with statistical significance. APT MRI was the only non-nuclear imaging modality to rank higher than DSC, with statistical insignificance, however. Conclusion: The evidence regarding which imaging modality is best for the differentiation between radiation necrosis and post-treatment radiation effects is still inconclusive. Using NMA, our analysis ranked FET PET to be the best for such a task based on the available evidence. APT MRI showed promising results as a non-nuclear alternative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastric staple line leak treatment after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) remains challenging. Regenerative medicine is gaining place in the accelerated treatment of damaged tissues. This study presents the first series of gastric leak treatment after LSG using endoscopic intragastric administration of combined autologous mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Methods: MSC-PRP harvesting and endoscopic administration techniques are described in detail. Data were prospectively gathered and analyzed. Primary endpoints were morbidity/mortality rates and fistula closure time. Results: Twelve patients (9 women, 3 men) were included. Median age was 41.5 years, median weight 105.5 kg and median BMI 38.9 kg/m2. Median time to gastric staple line leak detection was 10 days post-LSG. Median time between re-laparoscopy and MSC-PRP administration was 5 days. MSC-PRP endoscopic administration was successfully performed and tolerated by all patients, with median procedure duration of 27 min and minimal blood loss. Four postoperative complications were noted: two patients with increased tibial pain at tibial puncture site, one with tibial hematoma, and one with epigastric pain/dysphagia. Median length of hospital stay was 1 day. Gastric leak healing occurred after a median of 14 days, only two patients requiring a second MSC-PRP endoscopic injection. Median follow-up was 19 months, all patients being in good health at last contact. Conclusion: Endoscopic administration of combined autologous MSC-PRP seems to be a good option for treatment of gastric leaks after sleeve gastrectomy. It is a challenging procedure that should be performed in specialized bariatric centers by expert bariatric surgeons and endoscopists after meticulous patient selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To develop and validate a micro-ultrasound risk score that predicts the likelihood of significant prostate cancer in the anterior zone. Methods: Patients were enrolled from three expert institutions familiar with micro-ultrasound. The study was conducted in two phases. First, the PRI-MUS anterior score was developed by assessing selected prostate videos from patients who subsequently underwent radical prostatectomy. Second, seven urology readers with varying levels of experience in micro-ultrasound examination evaluated prostate loops according to the PRI-MUS anterior score. Each reader watched the videos and recorded the likelihood of the presence of significant cancer in the anterior part of the prostate in a three-point scale. The coherence among the readers was calculated using the Fleiss kappa and the Cronbach alpha. Results: A total of 102 selected prostate scans were used to develop the risk assessment for anterior zone cancer in the prostate. The score comprised three categories: likely, equivocal, and unlikely. The median (IQR) sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the seven readers were 72% (68–84), 68% (64–84), 75% (72–81), and 73% (71–80), respectively. The mean SD ROC AUC was 0.75 ± 2%, while the Fleiss kappa and the Cronbach alpha were 0.179 and 0.56, respectively. Conclusion: Micro-ultrasound can detect cancerous lesions in the anterior part of the prostate. When combined with the PRI-MUS protocol to assess the peripheral part, it enables an assessment of the entire prostate gland. Pending external validation, the PRI-MUS anterior score developed in this study might be implemented in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Causal finitism, the view that the causal history of any event must be finite, has garnered much philosophical interest recently—especially because of its applicability to the Kalām cosmological argument. The most prominent argument for causal finitism is the Grim Reaper argument, which attempts to show that, if infinite causal histories are possible, then other paradoxical states of affairs must also be possible. However, this style of argument has been criticized on the grounds of (i) relying on controversial modal principles, and (ii) providing a false diagnosis of the paradoxes involved. In this paper, I develop a new kind of Grim Reaper argument immune to these criticisms. I show that, by using insights from the literature on time travel, causal finitists should instead argue that infinite causal histories are problematically inexplicable, as they entail the possibility of unexplained foiling mechanisms. The fruits of this paper are that (i) a novel supporting argument for the Kalām is developed, and (ii) along the way of building this argument, it is shown that the literatures on time travel and causal finitism are deeply and intimately connected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nine years after reconceptualizing the nature of science for science education using the family resemblance approach (FRA) (Erduran & Dagher, 2014a), the time is ripe for taking stock of what this approach has accomplished, and what future research it can facilitate. This reflective paper aims to accomplish three goals. The first addresses several questions related to the FRA for the purpose of ensuring that the applications of FRA in science education are based on robust understanding of the framework. The second discusses the significance of the FRA by highlighting its capacity to support science educators with the exploration of a wide range of contemporary issues that are relevant to how teachers and learners perceive and experience science. The third goal of the paper offers recommendations for future directions in FRA research in the areas of science identity development and multicultural education as well as curriculum, instruction, and assessment in science education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean Basin is one of the World's plant diversity hotspots and a region prone to several anthropic pressures, besides being one of the World's areas most susceptible to climate change. In this region, which hosts a high percentage of threatened species, there has been a large increase in practical conservation actions to prevent the extinction of many plants or improve their conservation status. In this framework, plant translocations have become increasingly important. To obtain a picture of the status and to depict possible directions, data on plant translocations was collected through the available databases, national experts, and the grey literature available online. Overall, a list of 836 translocations relating to 572 plant species was found. These actions are mainly concentrated in Spain, France, and Italy (c. 87%) and, except for some pioneering actions, translocations have strongly increased starting from 2010. A subsequent in-depth bibliographic search of the scientific databases was conducted to determine how much information about plant translocations was documented in the scientific literature. This search resulted in a list of 133 peer-reviewed papers, of which only 17 describing one or more translocations and, as a whole, reporting 101 experiences carried out on 56 plant species. Our research highlighted a great discrepancy between the scarce scientific documentation in comparison to the large number of practical conservation actions carried out. The great experience gained in these translocations constitutes an enormous heritage potentially available to implement the necessary conservation actions to preserve the plant diversity of the Mediterranean Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We prove Poincaré and Logβ-Sobolev inequalities for a class of probability measures on step-two Carnot groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lockdown measures were taken since February 2020 in Lebanon, a country already going through a socio-economic crisis, to fight the new coronavirus pandemic. The aim of this study is to evaluate the psychological impact of the lockdown in Lebanon. A cross-sectional, online survey was conducted during the lockdown period in order to punctually assess depression, anxiety symptoms as well as eating and substance use disorders using self-rating scales (the DASS-21, SCOFF and CAGE-AID respectively), while identifying factors that might affect those outcomes. Overall, 1133 participants completed the questionnaire. The DASS-21 score was positively correlated with the impact of lockdown on participants' lifestyle and lockdown duration. A highest effect on DASS-21 score was related to the intensity of other stressful life events that have happened during the last 3 months. Linear regression analysis also showed that age, monthly income, professional status, the SCOFF and CAGE-AID scores, the intensity of the lockdown's impact on lifestyle and having been through other stressful life events unrelated to the lockdown per se, were risk factors affecting significantly the DASS-21 score. Lockdown, as well as other stressful life event that have happened during the last 3 months, were therefore associated with higher depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms. These findings may guide future policy making strategies in order to prevent mental health problems in case of a pandemic concomitant with other critical stressors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Successive Addition Argument (SAA) is one of the key arguments espoused by William Lane Craig for the thesis that the universe began to exist. Recently, Malpass, Mind, 131(523), 786–804 (2021) has developed a challenge to the SAA by way of constructing a counterexample that originates in the work of Fred Dretske. In this paper, I show that the Malpass-Dretske counterexample is in fact no counterexample to the argument. Utilizing a distinction between properties of members and properties of collections, I argue that Malpass' counterexample has no bearing on the soundness of the SAA. I also develop a novel parity argument against Malpass' argument that I demonstrate can only be resolved by way of the aforementioned analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consensus on the best surgical strategy for the management of synchronous colorectal liver metastases (sCRLM) has not been achieved. This study aimed to assess the attitudes of surgeons involved in the treatment of sCRLM. Methods: Surveys designed for colorectal, hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB), and general surgeons were disseminated through representative societies. Subgroup analyses were performed to compare responses between specialties and continents. Results: Overall, 270 surgeons (57 colorectal, 100 HPB and 113 general surgeons) responded. Specialist surgeons more frequently utilized minimally invasive surgery (MIS) than general surgeons for colon (94.8% vs. 71.7%, p < 0.001), rectal (91.2% vs. 64.6%, p < 0.001), and liver resections (53% vs. 34.5%, p = 0.005). In patients with an asymptomatic primary, the liver-first two-stage approach was preferred in most respondents' centres (59.3%), while the colorectal-first approach was preferred in Oceania (83.3%) and Asia (63.4%). A substantial proportion of the respondents (72.6%) had personal experience with minimally invasive simultaneous resections, and an expanding role for this procedure was foreseen (92.6%), while more evidence was desired (89.6%). Respondents were more reluctant to combine a hepatectomy with low anterior (76.3%) and abdominoperineal resections (73.3%), compared to right (94.4%) and left hemicolectomies (90.7%). Colorectal surgeons were less inclined to combine right or left hemicolectomies with a major hepatectomy than HPB and general surgeons (right: 22.8% vs. 50% and 44.2%, p = 0.008; left: 14% vs. 34% and 35.4%, p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusion: The clinical practices and viewpoints on the management of sCRLM differ between continents, and between and within surgical specialties. However, there appears to be consensus on a growing role for MIS and a need for evidence-based input. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dust accumulation on photovoltaic panels represents a major challenge for the operation of solar panels especially in the regions known by their high rate of dust and low frequency of rain. The objective of this study is to minimize dust accumulation on PV panels operating street light posts using dust shields. A novel dust shield having the same width of the panel, and subtending an angle of 120° with the panel, is proposed for dust mitigation. Numerical simulations are carried out to evaluate the influence of the dust shield on dust accumulation over the panel's surface. It is found that using a dust shield decreases the dust deposition rate by more than 44%. Moreover, extending the panel's surface at the lower edge with an extension plate together with the dust shield decreases the dust deposition rate better than using a dust shield only. Also, the effect of adding an air gap between the shield and the added extension plate is investigated, and it is found that the air gap induces air drafts over the panel's surface, which acts as an air barrier that obstructs the approach of dust particles to the panel's surface. These drafts get stronger as the air gap thickness increases, accordingly, less particles deposit on the panel. Finally, it is found that using a dust shield with a length smaller than the panel's length in addition to an extension plate together and increasing the thickness of the air gap is an effective and efficient solution for dust mitigation, such that the percentage decrease in the dust deposition rate that might be more than 88%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology Brain Metastases (RANO-BM) working group proposed a guide for treatment responses for BMs by utilizing the longest diameter; however, despite recognizing that many patients with BMs have sub-centimeter lesions, the group referred to these lesions as unmeasurable due to issues with repeatability and interpretation. In light of RANO—BM recommendations, we aimed to correlate linear and volumetric measurements in sub-centimeter BMs on contrast-enhanced MRI using intelligent automation software. Methods: In this retrospective study, patients with BMs scanned with MRI between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021, were screened. Inclusion criteria were: (1) at least one sub-centimeter BM with an integer millimeter-longest diameter was noted in the MRI report; (2) patients were a minimum of 18 years of age; (3) patients with available pre-treatment three-dimensional T1-weighted spoiled gradient-echo MRI scan. The screening was terminated when there were 20 lesions in each group. Lesion volumes were measured with the help of intelligent automation software Jazz (AI Medical, Zollikon, Switzerland) by two readers. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare volumetric differences. Results: Our study included 180 patients. The agreement for volumetric measurements was excellent between the two readers. The volumes of the following groups were not significantly different: 1–2 mm, 1–3 mm, 1–4 mm, 2–3 mm, 2–4 mm, 3–4 mm, 3–5 mm, 4–5 mm, 5–6 mm, 5–7 mm, 6–7 mm, 6–8 mm, 6–9 mm, 7–8 mm, 7–9 mm, 8–9 mm. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that the largest diameter of a lesion may not accurately represent its volume. Additional research is required to determine which method is superior for measuring radiologic response to therapy and which parameter correlates best with clinical improvement or deterioration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work involves the use of flash auto combustion procedure to synthesize nano-ferrites Mn0.6Zn0.4LaxFe2-xO4, (x = 0.00, 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08, and 0.10) annealing at 500 °C for 4 h. X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier transition infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used to characterize the structural properties of produced samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to examine the surface morphology of the samples at various Lanthanum concentrations. From XRD, the spinel cubic structure for all samples with few traces of secondary phase at high La concentrations is assured. The crystallite size is estimated to be in the nanoscale range of 13.16–18.13 nm using the Debye–Scherrer formula. The appearance of characteristic vibrational bands near 460 cm−1 and 563 cm−1, which correspond to the octahedral and tetrahedral sites, respectively, confirms the formation of the spinel structure. SEM micrographs show that the grains are nearly irregular in shape, and the accumulation of La+3 ions at the grain boundaries exerts tensile strength and pressure on the grain itself, reducing the grain size. The particle size estimated by TEM coincides well with the crystallite size determined by XRD. The thermogravimetric analysis, (TGA), was used to investigate the thermal properties of the nanoferrites from room temperature to 1000 °C. In comparison to the other samples, the sample with x = 0.04 has greater thermal stability and the TEM measurement indicates that this sample has the smallest particle size. Therefore, we can assert that the thermal stability improves as the particle size decreases. The magnetic permeability was measured in the temperature range 303–773 K at a fixed frequency of 10 kHz and at various La contents. The sample with x = 0.04 has a minimal permeability value, showing that the separation brought on by La ions has diminished the super exchange contact between magnetic ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the high milk production of Holstein cows, many countries have chosen to import semen to improve local dairy herds. This strategy would be more effective if this semen was used in the same environment conditions in which the bulls were selected. If the effect of genotype by environment (G × E) interaction is not considered, the estimated breeding values (EBVs) may vary, potentially reducing the selection response. We evaluate the impact of heat stress on selection for milk yield and composition of Holstein cows using random regression models. To verify the interference of heat stress in milk yield (MY) and composition traits (fat, protein, total saturated, and total unsaturated fatty acids content in milk), temperature–humidity index (THI) on test-day milk records was used. The threshold value to divide the environments using test-day information from Brazilian Holstein cows was 72 units of THI, i.e., < 72 represented no heat stress and > 72 represented heat stress. Legendre polynomials of second-order (Leg 2) model and two lactation points (33 and 122 DIM) were used to estimate heritabilities and EBVs for five important dairy traits. The heritabilities of milk components and fatty acids were low (0.09–0.29), regardless of lactation period and degree of heat stress, with the exception of protein content (0.30–0.35). Fat content was the only milk component that was reduced according to the degree of heat stress and lactation period. The EBVs tended to decrease in heat stress conditions, thus animals with high genetic potential demonstrated evidence of G × E interaction. However, acclimatization of dairy cows to heat stress in the farm production systems may have been responsible for the low differences among genetic parameters and EBVs with and without heat stress found in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid advancements of genome sequencing (GS) technologies have enhanced our understanding of the relationship between genes and human disease. To incorporate genomic information into the practice of medicine, new processes for the analysis, reporting, and communication of GS data are needed. Blood samples were collected from adults with a PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) diagnosis (target N = 1500). GS was performed. Data were filtered and analyzed using custom pipelines and gene panels. We developed unique patient-facing materials, including an online intake survey, group counseling presentation, and consultation letters in addition to a comprehensive GS report. The final report includes results generated from GS data: (1) monogenic disease risks; (2) carrier status; (3) pharmacogenomic variants; (4) polygenic risk scores for common conditions; (5) HLA genotype; (6) genetic ancestry; (7) blood group; and, (8) COVID-19 viral lineage. Participants complete pre-test genetic counseling and confirm preferences for secondary findings before receiving results. Counseling and referrals are initiated for clinically significant findings. We developed a genetic counseling, reporting, and return of results framework that integrates GS information across multiple areas of human health, presenting possibilities for the clinical application of comprehensive GS data in healthy individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is substantial research in science education about students', teachers', and scientists' views of nature of science (NOS). Many studies have used NOS frameworks that focus on particular ideas such as tentativeness of scientific knowledge and cultural embeddedness of science. In this paper, we investigate NOS from the perspective of the Family Resemblance Approach (FRA) which considers clusters of ideas about science in terms of categories that offer a comprehensive analytical lens to studying NOS views. The empirical study re-analyzes NOS views obtained from 7 and 8th grade students, science teachers, and scientists using the FRA lens. Statements from all three groups were obtained using a free-write questionnaire on nature of knowledge and nature of knowing. The statements were reclassified using the FRA framework. Epistemic network analysis (ENA) was applied to the statements produced by each group of participants, and the resulting network models were interpreted and compared. The results show that student and teacher network models possessed no central idea, and more tangible ideas about science were frequently connected. Scientist network models showed more connections across their statements which indicate a higher degree of agreement and coherence among a variety of ideas compared to student and teacher network models. The paper discusses the findings as well as the methodological contributions, and concludes with implications for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research is concerned with performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to investigate the air flow and dust deposition behavior around a ground-mounted solar PV panel. The discrete phase model (DPM) is adopted to model the gas-solid flow. The influence of the wind speed, the dust particle size, and the dust material on the dust deposition rate was investigated based on the environment of Cairo, Egypt. The wind speeds range between 1 and 11.5 m/s with an average of 3.7 m/s. It is found that increasing the wind speed decreases the dust deposition rate. For wind speeds higher than 2 m/s, it is found that increasing the dust particle diameter or the dust density increases the dust deposition rate. For wind speeds lower than 2 m/s, it is found that there is a critical particle size before which increasing the dust density causes dust deposition rate to increase and after which increasing the dust density decreases the dust deposition. The maximum percentage of deposition rate equals 10.8% and occurs for the dolomite dust material at a wind speed of 2 m/s and particles diameter of 150 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential tremor (ET) is the most prevalent movement disorder with poorly understood etiology. Some neuroimaging studies report cerebellar involvement whereas others do not. This discrepancy may stem from underpowered studies, differences in statistical modeling or variation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) acquisition and processing. To resolve this, we investigated the cerebellar structural differences using a local advanced ET dataset augmented by matched controls from PPMI and ADNI. We tested the hypothesis of cerebellar involvement using three neuroimaging biomarkers: VBM, gray/white matter volumetry and lobular volumetry. Furthermore, we assessed the impacts of statistical models and segmentation pipelines on results. Results indicate that the detected cerebellar structural changes vary with methodology. Significant reduction of right cerebellar gray matter and increase of the left cerebellar white matter were the only two biomarkers consistently identified by multiple methods. Results also show substantial volumetric overestimation from SUIT-based segmentation—partially explaining previous literature discrepancies. This study suggests that current estimation of cerebellar involvement in ET may be overemphasized in MRI studies and highlights the importance of methods sensitivity analysis on results interpretation. ET datasets with large sample size and replication studies are required to improve our understanding of regional specificity of cerebellum involvement in ET. Protocol registration: The stage 1 protocol for this Registered Report was accepted in principle on 21 March 2022. The protocol, as accepted by the journal, can be found at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.19697776. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Spring 2021, Asian, Hispanic, and Black students were more likely to experience burnout compared to White students (OR=1.28 (0.96, 1.72), OR=1.15 (0.78, 1.68), OR=1.14 (0.71, 1.84) respectively). While M2s and M3s reported the highest stress and burnout, M1s who entered school during the pandemic had the highest loneliness scores. In this follow-up study, we aim to (1) compare student burnout, stress, and loneliness in Spring 2020 vs. 2021 and (2) explore student experiences in Spring 2021. [Extracted from the article]

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a global health problem accompanied by an elevated risk of complications, the most common being cardiac and renal diseases. In Lebanon, the prevalence of T2D is estimated at 8–13%. Local medical practice generally suffers from clinical inertia, with gaps in the yearly assessment of clinical manifestations and suboptimal screening for major complications. The joint statement presented here, endorsed by five Lebanese scientific medical societies, aims at providing physicians in Lebanon with a tool for early, effective, and comprehensive care of patients with T2D. Findings from major randomized clinical trials of antidiabetic medications with cardio-renal benefits are presented, together with recommendations from international medical societies. Optimal care should be multidisciplinary and should include a multifactorial risk assessment, lifestyle modifications, and a regular evaluation of risks, including the risks for cardiovascular (CV) and renal complications. With international guidelines supporting a shift in T2D management from glucose-lowering agents to disease-modifying drugs, the present statement recommends treatment initiation with metformin, followed by the addition of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists due to their CV and renal protection properties, whenever possible. In addition to the selection of the most appropriate pharmacological therapy, efforts should be made to provide continuous education to patients about their disease, with the aim to achieve a patient-centered approach and to foster self-management and adherence to the medical plan. Increasing the level of patient engagement is expected to be associated with favorable health outcomes. Finally, this statement recommends setting an achievable individualized management plan and conducting regular follow-ups to monitor the patients' glycemic status and assess their risks every 3–6 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Obesity is an independent risk factor for renal injury. A more favorable metabolic environment following weight loss may theoretically lead to improved renal function. We aimed to evaluate the evolution of renal function one year after sleeve gastrectomy in a large prospective cohort of patients with morbid obesity and assess the influence of fat-free mass (FFM) changes. Methods: We prospectively included obese patients admitted for sleeve gastrectomy between February 2014 and November 2016. We also included a historical observational cohort of patients undergoing sleeve gastrectomy between January 2013 and January 2014 who had FFM evaluation. Patients were systematically evaluated 1 year after surgery. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. The FFM was estimated by analyzing computerized tomography (CT) scan sections from CT systematically performed 2 days and 1 year after sleeve gastrectomy to detect surgery complications. Results: Five hundred sixty-three patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 41.2 ± 0.5 years. The mean body mass index was 43.5 ± 0.3 kg/m2 and 20.4, 30.5, and 30.7% of the included patients had type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, respectively. One hundred fifteen patients were excluded and four hundred forty-eight patients were finally included in the analysis. The eGFR was significantly higher 1 year after sleeve gastrectomy than before surgery (87.8 ± 0.9 versus 86.1 ± 0.9, p < 0.01). There was no difference in terms of post-surgery FFM loss between patients with an improved eGFR and those without (6.7 ± 0.3 kg versus 6.8 ± 0.5 kg, p = 0.9). Furthermore, post-surgery changes in the eGFR did not correlate with the amount of FFM loss (r = 0.1, p = 0.18). Conclusion: Renal function assessed by eGFR is significantly improved at 1-year post-sleeve gastrectomy, independent of changes in skeletal muscle mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: SPSG carries a risk of incisional hernia, particularly in patients with high body mass index. Prophylactic mesh placement with either permanent or absorbable mesh could decrease the occurrence of incisional hernia, with uncertainty on other postoperative parietal complications.Methods: This is a non-randomized monocentric single-blinded prospective study. High-risk patients (body mass index ≥ 45 kg/m2) underwent either 3 strategies of parietal closure (suture with or without permanent or absorbable mesh) during SPSG. The primary outcome was the occurrence of radiologically defined incisional hernia during the first postoperative year. Secondary outcomes included surgical site infection rates and postoperative pain.Results: Between November 2018 and November 2019, 255 patients were included (85 in each group). All patients reached one-year postoperative follow-up. Significantly more incisional hernias were observed in the no mesh group in comparison with permanent and absorbable mesh groups, respectively (20% vs. 7.1% vs. 5.1%, P = 0.005). No difference was observed in mesh groups. No difference was observed regarding other parietal complications. One patient in the absorbable mesh group presented a superficial surgical site infection and required surgical drainage without mesh removal and one patient in the permanent mesh group presented a parietal hematoma and required surgical drainage with mesh removal. Twenty-six (92.8%) asymptomatic patients presented incisional hernia discovered on the one-year CT-scan.Conclusions: Prophylactic mesh placement during SPSG decreases the occurrence of postoperative incisional hernia. Routine permanent mesh placement could be proposed in high-risk patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: The aim of this scoping review is to identify and summarize findings published in the literature over the past 5 years related to methods for assessment of bone loss in anterior shoulder instability. Recent Findings: Of the 113 clinical studies included in this review, 76 reported a cutoff for glenoid bone loss when determining the patients indicated for one of the many stabilization procedures investigated. Bone loss on the glenoid side was evaluated most commonly with three-dimensional computed tomography (3D CT), and either linear or surface area–based methods were employed with the use of a best-fit circle. When combined with plain CT, the two methods comprise up to 70% of the reported measurement techniques for glenoid bone loss (79 of 113 studies). On the humeral side, Hill-Sachs lesions were assessed more heterogeneously, though plain CT or 3D CT remained the methods of choice in the majority of studies (43 of 68, 63.2%). Lastly, the glenoid track was assessed by 27 of 113 studies (23.9%), again most commonly with 3D CT (13 studies) and plain CT (seven studies). Summary: The assessment of glenoid and humeral bone loss is essential to treatment decisions for patient with recurrent anterior shoulder instability. Glenoid bone loss is most commonly assessed using cross-sectional imaging, most often 3D CT, and some variation of a best-fit circle applied to the inferior portion of the glenoid. Hill-Sachs lesion assessment was also commonly done using three-dimensional imaging; however, there was more variability in assessment methods across studies and there is an obvious need to unify the approach to humeral bone loss assessment for the purposes of improving treatment decisions and to better assess on-track and off-track lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of Lebanon’s severe economic crisis, a situation aggravated by the collapse of Banque du Liban’s financial strategies, delayed reforms by the government, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the devastating Beirut Port explosion. These events have precipitated a sharp decline in disposable income, soaring inflation rates, and an alarming increase in unemployment and multidimensional poverty. Central to this study is a comprehensive field survey that examines eighteen coping mechanisms adopted by workers in various economic sectors of Lebanon. From this survey, we introduce a new index designed to systematically categorize and evaluate these coping strategies across four critical dimensions of well-being: nutrition, healthcare, education, and financial issues. We use this index to quantify and understand the extent to which workers have relied on these coping mechanisms, offering novel insights into the socio-economic repercussions of the crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Letter to the Editor [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Umbrella review and network meta-analysis of diagnostic imaging test accuracy studies in differentiating between brain tumor progression versus pseudoprogression and radionecrosis" published in the Journal of Neuro-Oncology. The correction addresses an error in the affiliation details of several authors. The correct affiliation for Mohammad Amin Sadeghi, Sachin K. Gujar, Vivek Yedavalli, and Majid Khan should be the Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Division of Neuroradiology, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD, USA. The original article has been corrected. The publisher, Springer Nature, remains neutral regarding jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. [Extracted from the article]

It is increasingly recognized that multiple psychiatric conditions are underpinned by shared neural pathways, affecting similar brain systems. Here, we carried out a multiscale neural contextualization of shared alterations of cortical morphology across six major psychiatric conditions (autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, major depression disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia). Our framework cross-referenced shared morphological anomalies with respect to cortical myeloarchitecture and cytoarchitecture, as well as connectome and neurotransmitter organization. Pooling disease-related effects on MRI-based cortical thickness measures across six ENIGMA working groups, including a total of 28,546 participants (12,876 patients and 15,670 controls), we identified a cortex-wide dimension of morphological changes that described a sensory-fugal pattern, with paralimbic regions showing the most consistent alterations across conditions. The shared disease dimension was closely related to cortical gradients of microstructure as well as neurotransmitter axes, specifically cortex-wide variations in serotonin and dopamine. Multiple sensitivity analyses confirmed robustness with respect to slight variations in analytical choices. Our findings embed shared effects of common psychiatric conditions on brain structure in multiple scales of brain organization, and may provide insights into neural mechanisms of transdiagnostic vulnerability. Individuals across six major psychiatric conditions from the ENIGMA consortium reveals a shared morphological effect, following a sensory-fugal axis, which is related to microstructural gradient and neurotransmitter axes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) yields excellent results for restoring vision in end-stage corneal diseases. However, its success is limited to high-risk diseases such as aniridia, chemical burns, autoimmune corneal diseases, and herpetic eye disease. Boston type 1 keratoprosthesis (BKPro) offers another option to these patients. Since 1992, improvements in perioperative management and device construction have significantly increased the use of BKPro worldwide and challenged the therapeutic role of PKP in these patients. This review aims to evaluate BKPro's place in the treatment algorithm of these high-risk patients to assist surgeons' decision-making. PKP and BKPro are compared in three outcome categories: visual acuity, graft retention and failure, and complications profile. Special attention is given to comparing secondary BKPro versus repeated PKP as well as primary BKPro versus primary PKP. We conclude that secondary BKPro bears a better prognosis than repeated PKP in most high-risk patients. Similarly, primary BKPro likely confers improved outcomes over primary PKP in most high-risk recipients. However, current evidence is based on retrospective designs, and controlled prospective randomized trials are required to validate these conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colloidal silica or silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) are extremely amorphous nanomaterials owing spherical shape. These nanoparticles have gained much interest due to their usage in various fields; going from the industrial domain to the biomedical field. In this study, the synthesis of SiO2 NPs was investigated and optimized by varying two essential parameters including the type of silica precursor and the concentration of sodium hydroxide. The suitable nanoparticles were formed according to the best silica precursor (Colloidal Silica) and the optimum NaOH concentration (C = 100 mM). The applicability of the prepared nanoparticles was performed for the detection of silver ions in the concentration range between 5 and 300 μM based on resonance Rayleigh scattering (RRS) spectrometry. The limit of detection obtained was equal to 130 nM and the recovery percentage was between 98.4 and 100.4%. The detection of silver ions based on RRS technique was find to be easy to manipulate, simple and fast with low cost, compared to the usual techniques used as chromatography and calorimetric techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obesity is a preventable risk factor for cerebrovascular disorders and it is associated with cerebral grey and white matter changes. Specifically, individuals with obesity show diminished grey matter volume and thickness, which seems to be more prominent among fronto-temporal regions in the brain. At the same time, obesity is associated with lower microstructural white matter integrity, and it has been found to precede increases in white matter hyperintensity load. To date, however, it is unclear whether these findings can be attributed solely to obesity or whether they are a consequence of cardiometabolic complications that often co-exist with obesity, such as low-grade systemic inflammation, hypertension, insulin resistance, or dyslipidemia. In this narrative review we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the potential impact of obesity and a number of its cardiometabolic consequences on brain integrity, both separately and in synergy with each other. We also identify current gaps in knowledge and outline recommendations for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a reply to a letter discussing a study on the treatment of gastric staple line leaks after sleeve gastrectomy. The authors of the study agree with the concerns raised in the letter and emphasize the importance of specialized bariatric surgery units and experienced surgeons for the treatment of gastric leaks. They also discuss the potential of regenerative medicine, specifically the use of autologous mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma, in the management of bariatric surgery complications. While the initial results of their study are promising, further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of this approach. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: The aim of this prospective study was to assess marginal bone level (MBL), buccal and palatal bone thickness reduction (BTR) around implants in delayed and immediate placement protocols, 6 months after loading. Materials and Methods: Twenty-four patients were assigned to two treatment groups, and treated with an immediate (Test) or delayed implant placement (Control). Baseline and 6 months post-loading periapical and Cone Beam Computed Tomography radiographs were used to measure mesial, distal, buccal, and palatal MBL change, and buccal and palatal BTR. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between groups, in MBL change, mesially (p = 0.4220), distally (p = 0.774), buccally (p = 0.221), and palatally (p = 0.195). There was more MBL change on the buccal side than on the palatal side in both groups, control (p = 0.012) and test (p = 0.005). Buccal bone thickness decreased significantly in both groups, and at all four levels (p < 0.05). Buccal BTR was higher in test implants at 0, 2, and 4 mm (p = 0.005, p = 0.0018, p = 0.006) on the buccal side, and at 0 mm (p = 0.006) on the palatal side. Implant stability increased in both groups (p < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between insertion torque and stability in the control group (p = 0.024). Conclusions: Within the study limitations, MBL changes occur around implants and are comparable between groups. More buccal than palatal MBL change occurs in both groups. Buccal BTR is higher in immediate cases. Implant stability augmented in both groups. Clinical Relevance: This data call for additive therapy to compensate for the expected bone loss, particularly in esthetically demanding cases. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04346706 Registered 14 April 2020 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.clinicalTrials.gov [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is the most frequently performed bariatric procedure worldwide. Postoperative staple-line leak and intraabdominal hemorrhage can increase associated morbidity and mortality. The value of routine early computed tomography (CT) scanner examination in the early diagnosis of complications in high-risk severely obese patients undergoing LSG is studied. Methods: This was a prospective, non-randomized study including all patients undergoing LSG in our department from 2014 to 2020. Patients presenting at least one potential risk factor for postoperative gastric leak and bleeding (as defined by the current literature) were included. Primary endpoint was the efficacy of postoperative day (POD) 2 CT-scanner examination in diagnosing these complications. Results: One thousand fifty-one high-risk patients were included. Median age was 44 years. Early postoperative surgical complications occurred in 48 patients (4.5%): 25 (2.3%) intraabdominal hemorrhage and 23 (2.2%) staple-line leak. Early CT-scanner detected intraabdominal bleeding or hematoma in 22/25 patients, with 95.6% sensitivity (Youden's index = 0.95), while specificity was 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) 100%, and negative predictive value (NPV) 99.9%. Sensitivity of early postoperative CT-scanner was 43.4% (10/23 patients; Youden's index = 0.43) for staple-line leak detection, with specificity of 100%, PPV 100%, and NPV 98.7%. Conclusion: POD 2 CT-scanner in high-risk severely obese patients undergoing LSG is an excellent tool for early diagnosis of intraabdominal hemorrhage, but sensitivity remains low for staple-line leak detection. Close postoperative clinical follow-up of these patients is essential and any suspicion of postoperative surgical complication should motivate the performance of a CT-scanner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Laparoscopic redo resections for colorectal metastases are poorly investigated. This study aims to explore long-term results after second, third, and fourth resections. Material and methods: Prospectively updated databases of primary and redo laparoscopic liver resections in six European HPB centers were analyzed. Procedure-related overall survival after first, second, third, and fourth resections were evaluated. Furthermore, patients without liver recurrence after first liver resection were compared to those with one redo, two or three redo, and patients with palliative treatment for liver recurrence after first laparoscopic liver surgery. Survival was calculated both from the date of the first liver resection and from the date of the actual liver resection. In total, 837 laparoscopic primary and redo liver resections performed in 762 patients were included (630 primary, 172 first redo, 29 second redo, and 6 third redo). Patients were bunched into four groups: Group 1—without hepatic recurrence after primary liver resection (n = 441); Group 2—with liver recurrence who underwent only one laparoscopic redo resection (n = 154); Group 3—with liver recurrence who underwent two laparoscopic redo resections (n = 29); Group 4—with liver recurrence who have not been found suitable for redo resections (n = 138). Results: No significant difference has been found between the groups in terms of baseline characteristics and surgical outcomes. Rate of positive resection margin was higher in the group with palliative recurrence (group 4). Five-year survival calculated from the first liver resection was 67%, 62%, 84%, and 7% for group 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Procedure-specific 5-year overall survival was 50% after primary laparoscopic liver resection, 52% after the 1st reoperation, 52% after the 2nd, and 40% after the 3rd reoperation made laparoscopic. Conclusions: Multiple redo recurrences can be performed laparoscopically with good long-term results. Liver recurrence does not aggravate prognosis as long as the patient is suitable for reoperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the social media platform Twitter, this study explores public reference to "scientific method(s)" in tweets specifically pertaining to COVID-19 posted between January and June 2020. The study focuses on three research questions: When did reference to scientific methods peak, which aspects of nature of science (NOS) do these tweets address, and the extent to which Twitter users' sentiments provide useful information about their attitudes towards the scientific method. COVID-19 tweets were mined and queried using "scientific method(s)" as a keyword. A content analysis using the Family Resemblance Approach (FRA) to NOS and a non-computational sentiment analysis were conducted on the obtained data set. The findings revealed that tweets using science method(s) peaked most during the months of April and May, as more information was being communicated about promising treatments and vaccine development. Most tweets were assigned multiple FRA categories. The sentiment analysis revealed that attitude towards the scientific method was predominantly supportive. Discussion of three events that were observed in clusters of tweets provided additional context. The paper concludes by noting the methodological affordances and limitations of applying the FRA for identifying NOS-related content in Twitter environments and underscoring the potential of targeted NOS messaging in promoting informed discussions about NOS in the public sphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]