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In recent years, the popularity of drugs which were firstly introduced as treatment for diabetes type 2 has surged, because of their’s significant effect of managing the body weight especially for patients that suffer for diabetes type 2. Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like-peptide 1 receptor agonist. The aim of our study is to present reliable and up-to-date knowledge of effects that both drugs provide and their beneficial effects on health.

Introduction: Due to the lack of cadavers, anatomists across the nation are facing trouble in teaching. Plastinated specimens can be used to get around this deficiency and reliance. Aim: To assess the change in weight during plastination using melamine. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional cadaveric study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy at GMC Kota, Rajasthan, India, using nine specimens from cadavers obtained between June 2016 and June 2017. Freshly dissected specimens from a fresh cadaver were used for plastination. The weight reduction after dehydration using acetone (three changes of seven days each), degreasing using xylene (three changes of seven days each), impregnation with a melamine-xylene mixture (10 days in a vacuum), and curing was recorded. Weight was measured using a digital weighing balance and recorded after each step. All statistical analyses were performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in MedCalc software version 22.009. Results: There was a gradual weight loss after each step except for impregnation. The percentage of mean weight after dehydration was 58.59±4.03%, after degreasing was 56.21±2.55%, after impregnation was 66.06±4.69%, and after curing was 48.26±5.39% and p-value was highly significant (

Background: Since studies on the subject of weight reduction in wrestlers vary in opinions regarding health, performance, and legal regulations, a review of the most cited literature in other combat sports was carried out. Methods: By searching the WOS and Scopus scientific databases, the top 60 cited papers were identified, and ultimately, 13 articles that met the inclusion criteria for this review were selected. Findings and conclusions: Apart from the advantages gained in strength and mass through weight reduction, a mental advantage is also obtained. The period between weigh-ins and the actual bouts is considered crucial for the preservation of performance. When the rules allow for a longer recovery period, this enables aggressive, harmful, or prohibited weight reduction methods to be employed by some wrestlers. A chronic reduction in body weight is regarded as a long-term health issue but may be ignored by wrestlers. There has been no progress in the attempt to regulate the problem of rapid weight loss (RWL) within wrestling in the past thirty-five years. If any change is to be brought about, the engagement of all federations, clubs, WADA, and all individuals involved in this issue (athletes, coaches, parents, doctors, etc.) is deemed necessary.

This research paper discusses a case in which stomach cancer was incidentally discovered during a bariatric surgery procedure. Bariatric surgery is well-known for its significant effects on weight loss and overall health enhancement, and its prevalence has been rising globally. While its primary aim is weight reduction, it also offers the chance for surgeons to detect and manage other medical conditions. In this specific case, a patient scheduled for bariatric surgery was incidentally discovered with stomach cancer, underscoring the significance of comprehensive operative assessments and vigilant monitoring during surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilkie's syndrome is an unusual cause of upper intestinal obstruction due to mechanical compression of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) to the duodenum, with nonspecific symptoms, whose diagnosis is confirmed by angiotomography. Initially, the treatment is conservative to regain weight and restore mesenteric adipose tissue, associated with postural changes of the patient. If this fails, surgical treatment is indicated, being laparoscopic duodenojejunostomy described as the gold standard. Robotics' assistance is feasible and safe to carry out the procedure. We present the case of a 21-year-old male patient who comes with stabbing abdominal pain and persistent postprandial vomiting that has caused weight loss of 11 kilograms in the last 2 years without apparent cause, associated with gastroesophageal reflux. During the procedure, we evidenced open diaphragmatic pillars and duodenal compression due to SMA, and robotic-assisted laparoscopic hyatoplasty + Nissen fundoplication + duodenojejunostomy were performed without complications, with excellent post-surgical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Due to the lack of cadavers, anatomists across the nation are facing trouble in teaching. Plastinated specimens can be used to get around this deficiency and reliance. Aim: To assess the change in weight during plastination using melamine. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional cadaveric study was conducted in the Department of Anatomy at GMC Kota, Rajasthan, India, using nine specimens from cadavers obtained between June 2016 and June 2017. Freshly dissected specimens from a fresh cadaver were used for plastination. The weight reduction after dehydration using acetone (three changes of seven days each), degreasing using xylene (three changes of seven days each), impregnation with a melamine-xylene mixture (10 days in a vacuum), and curing was recorded. Weight was measured using a digital weighing balance and recorded after each step. All statistical analyses were performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) in MedCalc software version 22.009. Results: There was a gradual weight loss after each step except for impregnation. The percentage of mean weight after dehydration was 58.59±4.03%, after degreasing was 56.21±2.55%, after impregnation was 66.06±4.69%, and after curing was 48.26±5.39% and p-value was highly significant (<0.05). Conclusion: Continuous reduction in weight without distortion of anatomy resulted in lightweight plastinates which were odorfree and aesthetically pleasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The off-label use of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists for cosmetic weight loss has captured the interest of the public. However, there is a paucity of published data on their utilization, implications, and management, particularly in the plastic surgery community. Objectives This study aims to explore the current practice patterns of aesthetic plastic surgeons regarding the off-label implementation of GLP-1 agonists. Methods A 35-question survey was sent to the 2600 members of The Aesthetic Society in July 2023. The survey collected physician demographics, practice settings, patient population demographics, and the use and management of GLP-1 agonists in their practice. No identifying variables were collected; all responses were anonymous. Results A total of 368 respondents were included. A quarter of respondents (25.3%) prescribed or utilized GLP-1 agonists in their practice. Nearly a third (29.9%) reported personal use of the medication, of which 71 (70.3%) indicated it was for cosmetic weight loss. Many aspects of the current treatment, counseling, and follow-up practices were similar among prescribing plastic surgeons. However, there were discrepancies in screening, nutrition counseling, and perioperative management. The majority believed that GLP-1 agonists were effective for weight loss (68.9%), profitable for business (57.8%), and would recommend its implementation to other plastic surgeons (68.5%). Conclusions As leaders in the aesthetic field, it behooves plastic surgeons to take charge of shaping public opinion surrounding the growing off-label use of GLP-1 agonists for cosmetic weight loss. Plastic surgeons' leadership is imperative in establishing safe and ethical guidelines and protocols for proper screening, management, and patient care. Level of Evidence: 4 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Weight loss leads to excessive flaccidity, volume loss, and tissue descent in the gluteal region. Translated autologous flaps during lower body lifting have been utilized in patients; they address sagging tissue and the lack of volume. However, sometimes use of these autologous flaps does not provide adequate gluteal projection, and a second procedure with fat injection may be required. Objectives The authors describe their technique of a lower body lift with a lumbosacral flap in association with liposuction and lipofilling for gluteoplasty. Methods A prospective series of 23 post–bariatric surgery individuals who underwent a lower body lift with lumbosacral flap gluteal augmentation, liposuction, and lipofilling between January 2021 and September 2022 were described. The satisfaction rate and complications were assessed 6 months postoperatively with a validated questionnaire (BODY-Q scale). Results The patients had a mean age of 38.18 (range, 28-56 years) and median body mass index of 26. Four patients with dehiscence were diagnosed and treated conservatively. All wound breakdowns were observed in the paramedian plane of the torsoplasty. No reoperations were performed. The mean satisfaction percentage of the BODY-Q scale transformed score was 97.5. Conclusions A technique for a lower body lift with buttock augmentation combined with liposuction and fat grafting was presented. In future studies other techniques to maximize gluteal contouring should be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The automotive industry is undergoing a rapid evolution to meet today's challenges; therefore, continuous innovation and product development are needed. Validation tests on prototypes play a crucial role in moving new components into industrial production. There is also a pressing need for faster prototyping processes. In this context, rapid sand casting (RSC), based on additive manufacturing technology, offers a promising solution for a quick production of sand molds. While this technology is already employed in the industry, the need to deepen the general understanding of its impact on the casting properties is still a relevant item. In this study, different geometries of automotive prototypes made of aluminum EN AC 42100-T6 alloy were experimentally analyzed. Microstructural examinations, tensile tests, and fractography and porosity analyses were conducted. The findings demonstrate the considerable potential of RSC, giving, in general, high mechanical properties. A comparative analysis with prototypes produced through traditional sand casting revealed similar results, with RSC exhibiting superior yield strength and stress at brake. However, both technologies revealed a reduced elongation percentage, as expected. Future efforts will focus on standardizing the RSC process to enhance ductility levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The door of a passenger car is one of the key components used for the safety of passengers from side collisions. Mostly car doors are made of Steel that increase the overall weight of the vehicle since steel is the primary metal used for the construction of door. The main objective of this research is to replace Steel material of a car door with low-cost automotive materials such as aluminium alloy, magnesium alloy, and carbon fibre material to perform weight reduction analysis without compromising the strength and safety. A comprehensive theoretical study of the existing car door has been performed with 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) models through commercially available software SolidWorks. Results of this research work revealed that by selecting the appropriate engineering materials of the doors for a commercially available passenger car, the overall weight reduced to 45% when used aluminium material and 64% when used magnesium and carbon-fibre materials compared to the total weight of four doors made of typical steel material. Furthermore, reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emission was also obtained by reducing the overall weight of the passenger car doors. Lastly, the performance was measured through power-to-weight ratio (PWR) analysis for steel and aluminium which revealed that the latter material was more economical and lighter in weight than the former material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of the orientation angle and stacking order of the composite material on the torsional strength, buckling, and natural frequency of the drive shaft was demonstrated in a number of investigations. When designing and analyzing various composite materials, carbon/epoxy and Kevlar/epoxy were further looked at for their suitability in terms of torsional strength, torsional buckling, and bending natural frequency of the drive shaft. However, the fatigue life of these materials is not student very well. This, study will analysis the property of carbon/epoxy and Kevlar/epoxy composites automobile drive shaft fatigue life in addition to weight, bending natural frequency and equivalent stresses analysis. Before designing composite materials, the steel drive shaft will be designed and analysis based on weight, torsional strength, torsional buckling, bending natural frequency and fatigue life as a reference for comparison. Then, utilizing a modeling equation, ANSYS 18 and Solid work 16 as a tool, numerical and analytical analysis is carried out. Analytical and numerical results are contrasted as part of the validation process. The driveshaft made of carbon/epoxy composite material greatly reduces the weight of the driveshaft when compared to steel and Kevlar/epoxy drive shafts by comparing both analytical and numerical data. In contrast, the increased number of plies in the Kevlar/epoxy drive shaft gives it a longer fatigue life than the steel, carbon, and epoxy drive shafts. As a result, it is stronger against shearing and buckling loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, excessive body weight has become one of the most serious psychological, biological and social problems. According to forecasts by the World Health Organization, obesity and overweight will continue to increase among both adults and children in the coming years. Poland ranks sixth in Europe in this respect. In 2021, almost 58% of Poles had above-average body weight (overweight or obesity). In Poland, 29% of women are overweight, and 21% of women are obese. Body dissatisfaction, depression, and anxiety disorder are indicated as consequences of high BMI in women. Reducing excess body weight improves psychosocial functioning and changes body assessment. The most lasting effects of weight reduction are achieved by a properly selected diet combined with increased physical activity. This results in a change in lifestyle, changes in the levels of metabolic indicators, and changes in one's body image and mental health. Objective: Our objective was to assess changes in body image and mental health among Polish women and their dependence on the weight reduction method used (type of diet and physical activity). Comparative studies involving 122 women were conducted. These women were selected from 1000 volunteers based on BMI criteria. The effects of diet therapy were compared with the effects of diet therapy combined with physical activity. Research tools: The GHQ-12 scale was used to measure mental health, and the Body Esteem Scale was used to measure body image. The study lasted four years. The results showed changes in body image, general mental health index, and BMI in women who dieted and in those who dieted and exercised. In women using a diet combined with physical activity, greater positive changes in mental condition and stronger positive changes in body image, namely in the assessment of satisfaction with sexual attractiveness, physical condition, and body weight control, were observed compared to women using diet therapy alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystic tumors account for 15% of pancreatic tumors. Of these, serous microcystic adenomas represent 1–2% of pancreatic exocrine neoplasms. While typically benign, a small percentage possess malignant potential. Given imaging improvements, serous cystadenomas are being identified more frequently. A 63-year-old female was admitted with complaints of jaundice and unintentional weight loss. Abdominal computed tomography scan showed a 16 cm obstructive pancreatic mass near the porta hepatis region. Endoscopic ultrasonography and fine needle aspiration biopsy indicated a large pancreatic head cystic mass favoring serous microcystadenoma causing biliary and some pyloric obstruction. Malignant potential could not be ruled out because of size and symptoms. A pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy revealed a cystic tumor invading the pancreatic duct and adhering to the duodenum of the pancreatic head. Pathology confirmed a 15 cm benign pancreatic serous cystadenoma. Although most serous cystadenomas are benign, surgical resection was prudent given the size, symptoms, and adjacent organ involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a novel medication for treating type 2 diabetes (T2DM), which have the pleiotropic effect of weight reduction. This study aimed to evaluate clinical and biochemical predictors of effective weight reduction in T2DM patients who use various types of SGLT2i. Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted with 289 adults diagnosed with T2DM who were first prescribed SGLT2i either as monotherapy or add-on therapy. The primary outcome was the identification of clinical and biochemical factors that can potentially induce meaningful weight reduction (>3% in 1 year) in T2DM patients while using SGLT2 inhibitors. The relationship between predictors and significant weight loss was assessed using logistic regression analysis, including adjustment for confounding factors. Results are presented as odds ratios (ORs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Among the 289 patients, 45.6% had significant weight loss following SGLT2i use. The significant clinical predictors were age >70 years old (OR 3.26, 95% CI 1.39-7.6, p=0.006), body mass index >25 kg/m² (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.011.05, p=0.049), and the use of sulfonylureas (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.15-5.09, p=0.020). Additionally, the use of HCTZ showed significantly decreased odds of weight loss (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.13-0.96, p=0.043). Conclusion: This research highlights multiple clinical factors that potentially can predict meaningful weight loss in patients with T2DM who are treated with SGLT2i. These findings could facilitate the identification of patients who might benefit from the weight loss effects of SGLT2i. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of semaglutide, administered either by weekly subcutaneous (SC) injection or orally, in real-life practice in Saudi Arabia in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: A retrospective chart review study was conducted at 18 Saudi Arabia centers. An accredited centralized institutional review board approved the study. Medical records were included for individuals of any age ≥ 18 years with uncontrolled T2DM. The primary outcome measure was the laboratory glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level. Secondary measures included fasting blood glucose (FBG), weight, and hypoglycemia. All variables were checked after 6 and 12 months of semaglutide initiation. Results: The analysis of this study included 1223 patients with uncontrolled T2DM (HbA1c > 7%). The mean (SD) baseline HbA1c was 10.02% (1.17). HbA1c was reduced by an average of 3.02% (0.84) and 3.17% (0.84) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Results of a repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated significant differences in HbA1c (p value < 0.001). HbA1c levels at 6 and 12 months were significantly lower, 7.00% (0.70) and 6.85% (0.69), than at baseline, 10.02% (1.17). About 193 patients (56.4%) of the 295 patients having HbA1c < 9% achieved HbA1c of 5.7% or less. The frequency of hypoglycemia events was 4.60 (1.10) in the 3 months before semaglutide was initiated. The frequency of hypoglycemia events in the last 3 months was 2.30 (0.80) events and 0.80 (0.50) events at 6-month and 12-month follow-up visits, respectively. The percent reduction in body mass index (BMI) was an average of 13.07% (1.53) and 19.89% (4.07) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Lipid profile and blood pressure were improved at 6 and 12 months. Conclusion: Semaglutide, administered either by SC injection or orally, provided substantial glycemic and weight-loss benefits in adults with T2DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A multimodal conservative approach (MCA) is internationally recommended prior to bariatric surgery for the majority of patients. This research aimed to identify risk factors for therapy failure within the MCA. Methods This study was conducted in a German bariatric obesity centre. Patients who underwent a 3- to 6-month preoperative MCA from November 2019 to October 2020 were prospectively recorded and analysed. MCA included dietary and movement therapy, psychological and endocrinological referral and connection to a patient support group. The change in BMI was considered the main parameter for therapeutic success. Explanatory factors were evaluated for this outcome of interest and included physical and mental well-being (SF-36), perceived stress (DASS-21), social and economic situation and educational background (SOEP). Results Out of 413 eligible patients, 209 were analysed. Overall, patients gained BMI (average gain 0.23 kg/m² (s.d. 1.44 kg/m²)) during the preoperative MCA. Diverse social, demographic and economic and health properties did not influence the course of the therapy. There was a significant positive correlation between successful loss of BMI and physical well-being (β = 0.03, 95% c.i. 0.01 to 0.04, P < 0.0001) and a negative correlation between mental well-being (β = −0.02, 95% c.i. −0.004 to −0.001, P = 0.001) as well as self-perceived stress (β = −0.05, 95% c.i. −0.09 to −0.01, P = 0.019), although these effects were small and did not affect the overall trend of gaining BMI during MCA. Conclusion The current therapeutic approach of preoperative conservative treatment within the multimodal concept of bariatric treatment fails to achieve its intended outcome. A different conservative weight loss programme from the pre-bariatric setting, which should focus on a surgical preparation, is therefore recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 650 million adults are obese worldwide. Recently, antidiabetic medications have rapidly become popular as weight loss medications. With the rising prevalence of obesity and the increasing demand for aesthetic procedures, it is anticipated that a growing number of patients presenting for consultation will be prescribed these medications. Therefore, it is critical for practicing plastic surgeons to understand their potential synergistic effects and safety considerations. This manuscript explores the potential benefits and considerations of antidiabetic medications in plastic surgery patients for weight loss therapy. The authors discuss the mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, potential side effects, and relevant considerations for incorporating these medications into plastic surgery practices and medical spas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic, reproductive, and endocrine disorder affecting women of fertile age. This study aimed to formulate a phytochemicals-based standardized aqueous ethanolic extract of Rubia cordifolia (SERC) to explore its pharmacological potential in PCOS-induced female rats and elucidate its mechanism. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of phytochemicals such as chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and kaempferol. Thirty female adult rats were divided into two groups for induction of PCOS (5 female rats in the normal control group + 25 female rats in the disease-induced group). PCOS was induced by administering letrozole (1 mg/kg p.o.) for 6 weeks. After PCOS induction, animals of the disease-induced group were divided into five groups: one group used as disease control (PCOS) group, one group on metformin (20 mg/kg), and three groups on SERC (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg). Histopathological analysis showed that PCOS induction reduced corpus luteum and developing follicles and increased cystic follicles. In comparison, SERC treatment improved ovulation with more primary and developing follicles. SERC reduced the serum insulin, LH surge, and testosterone levels while improving the FSH, estrogen, and progesterone serum levels. SERC significantly improved the oxidation status of the liver and normalized the lipid profile and liver function markers. In conclusion, SERC treated PCOS, and the suggested mechanism might be the restoration of aromatase activity and background inflammatory status improvement in ovaries.

Introduction: Semaglutide, a Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist (GLP-1 RA), is often prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes, particularly in cases unresponsive to other hypoglycemic agents. Despite its popularity, the real-world efficacy and cost-effectiveness of Semaglutide relative to other treatments remain understudied. Objective: This study aimed to examine the direct medical cost and consequences of adding Semaglutide to the treatment regimen for patients with type 2 diabetes in Saudi Arabia. Methods: We conducted a single-center, retrospective review of Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) for adults with type 2 diabetes. Patients who had been on Semaglutide for at least three months were matched with those receiving alternative hypoglycemic therapies. Exclusions were made for patients with cancer, incomplete EMRs, or lacking prescription data. Investigated outcomes included changes in HbA1C levels and weight, and the direct costs comprised medications, clinic visits, and emergency care. Baseline adjustments were made through inverse probability treatment weighting, and uncertainty was assessed via bootstrapping with 10,000 replications. Results: Out of 350 patients meeting the criteria, 116 were on Semaglutide. Predominantly females (62%), the cohort had an average age of 60 and a disease duration of 22 years. The difference in HbA1C (%) reductions between Semaglutide and non-Semaglutide users over 3,6, and 12 months were 0.154 (95% CI: –0.452-0.483), –0.031(95% CI: –0.754-0.239), –0.16(95% CI: –1.425-0.840), respectively. Semaglutide users did experience modest weight reductions ranging from 0.42 kg to 1.16 kg. The annual additional direct medical cost for Semaglutide was USD 4,086.82 (95% CI: $3,710.85 - $4,294.99). Conclusion: Although Semaglutide induced modest weight reductions, it did not offer significant advantages in lowering HbA1C levels compared to other hypoglycemic treatments. These findings suggest the need for further research involving larger and more diverse cohorts to corroborate these findings.

Study aim: Dietary and non-dietary weight loss methods are highly prevalent among combat sports athletes (CSA). Most CSA undergo rapid weight loss (RWL) usually a week before the competition to reduce their body mass and thus compete in the lowest weight category possible. The objective of the study was to distinguish the impact of high-intensity sport-specific training (HISST) combined with RWL (phase 1 – P1) on muscle damage markers as well as the effects of HISST alone (phase 2 – P2).

Background: People with intellectual disabilities (IDs) have an increased risk of obesity and health concerns related to their nutritional status and dietary intake. Objective: To assess the effectiveness of a multi-component intervention on weight, waist circumference (WC), clinical health parameters and dietary habits in a group of overweight and obese adults with mild-to-moderate ID. Design: A 7-month cluster-randomised trial and a 7-month follow-up of the intervention group after the end of intervention when the group received usual care. The intervention consisted of monthly dietary-group courses tailored to the participants’ cognitive abilities and practical skills, monthly nutritional courses for staff, use of behaviour change techniques and nudging. The control group received usual care during the intervention. Results: There were 32 participants aged 22–61 years: 15 in the intervention group and 17 in the control group. After 7 months, a non-significant weight difference (median difference = −1.25 kg; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −2.00; 0.95 vs. +1.00 kg; CI = −1.15; 3.00, P = 0.08) and a significant WC difference were observed between the intervention and control groups (median difference = −3.75 cm; CI: −7.68; 0.11 vs. 0 cm; CI = −3.99; 1.00, P = 0.03), respectively. The median reduction in WC continued in the intervention group during the 7-month follow-up (median difference = −7.50 cm; CI: −13.57; −3.16, P = 0.002). A significant difference in frequency intake of fruit (P = 0.03) and berries (P = 0.004) was observed between the groups after 7 months, supported by a significant increase in measured serum-carotenoid levels in the intervention group after 7 months (median difference = 0.26 mmol/L; CI: −0.12; 0.52, P = 0.007). Conclusions: A significant difference in WC was observed between the groups, accompanied by changes in blood parameters and dietary habits.

We report a case of a 47-year-old male who presented with altered mental status. A review of his records revealed a weight loss of 20 lbs over the past 6 years, a recent hospitalization for idiopathic polyneuropathy with failure to thrive, and prior surgeries for peptic ulcer disease and small bowel obstruction. He was alert but had retrograde amnesia and peripheral neuropathy. A diagnosis was made, and the patient improved with treatment but was unfortunately left with irreversible neurological deficits. We discuss the importance of recognizing the extraintestinal manifestations of gastrointestinal dysfunction following gastrointestinal surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal basidiobolomycosis (GIB) is a rare fungal infection caused by the Basidiobolus ranarum , and it possesses a significant challenge to diagnose it as it presents with non-specific symptoms that often mimic cancer. Herein, we report a case of GIB in a 51-year-old male from the central region of Saudi Arabia, a non-endemic region of GIB, which was initially misdiagnosed as colon cancer. A 51-year-old man presented with abdominal pain for two-months, non-bloody diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Abdominal examination revealed a large mass measuring ~10x15cm. Radiological findings prompted the diagnosis of a colon mass, and the patient was surgically treated under that impression. Hemicolectomy and end colostomy with mucous fistula from distal sigmoid stump were done. Histopathology was consistent with GIB. The diagnosis of GIB presents a serious challenge and requires a high index of clinical suspicion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topology optimization is a well known and sophisticated method for designing structures. Through a finite element analysis, this method optimizes the design and material distribution to obtain an ideal strength-to-weight ratio and improved strain-to-weight ratio. This study involves the development of a comprehensive model for a brake using the ANSYS Parametric Design Language. The purpose of the model is to accurately characterize the geometry of the disc or drum. The technique of a complex eigenvalue analysis is used to identify the presence of unstable modes occurring at distinct frequencies, indicating instability. A braking force of 17,492 kN was exerted at a rotational velocity of 55 rad/s for 10 s. The optimization process resulted in significant mass reduction while maintaining structural integrity. In the drum brake, the mass was reduced from 114.01 kg to 104.07 kg, while the disc brake’s mass decreased from 68.81 kg to 56.68 kg.

Background. Anti-obesity therapeutic strategies are continuously evolving. Bariatric procedures or metabolic surgery are among the most effective and longlasting therapies for obesity and its complications. Our objective was to investigate the clinical and biological evolution after metabolic surgery in a group of patients from North-Eastern Romania and to evaluate a nutritional intervention plan for this population. Materials and Methods. Our clinic surveyed 50 patients who received nutritional counselling before and after bariatric surgery. The patient's weight loss, metabolic markers, and lifestyle changes from January to December 2021 were recorded. SPSS Statistics v.18 was used for statistical analyses. Results and Discussions. Patients had a mean age of 37.70 ± 11.38 years, with an initial body mass index (BMI) of 42.98 ± 6.12 kg/m2. One month after surgery, longitudinal gastrectomy patients lost 12.6 kg (114.33 ± 19.26 vs 101.73±17.27 kg), and gastric bypass patients lost 10.86 kg (119.33 ± 20.83 vs 108.47±17.96 kg). Body composition improved in the first six months after the intervention due to adipose (mean value 37.83±6.42 from 46.38±6.63) and visceral (mean value 8.50 ± 4.42 from 13.72±5.67) tissues decrease. Muscle tissue increased from 35.54±12.63 to a mean value of 39.95±17.96. HbA1c values improved from 5.90±0.63% to 5.30±0.30% in the first month after the intervention. The nutritional intervention was safe without significant deficits after 1 and 6 months. Conclusions. Metabolic surgery is associated with a weight loss of 10.8 to 12.6 kg and improved body composition. Patients require followup and further dietary counseling to sustain long-term results.

Aims: This study seeks to provide insights into the practical application and effects of oral semaglutide in Saudi T2DM patients under routine medical supervision. Methods: The primary outcome measure was the laboratory HbA1c. Secondary measures included fasting blood glucose (FBG), weight, and hypoglycemia. All variables were checked after six months and 12 months of initiation. Results: The analysis of this study included 245 uncontrolled (HbA1c > 7 %) T2DM patients. The mean baseline HbA1c was 10.1 % (1.2). HbA1c was reduced by an average of 3.1 % (0.8) and 3.2 % (0.8) at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The frequency of hypoglycemia events in the last three months before semaglutide was initiated was 4.4 (1.1). The frequency of hypoglycemia events in the last three months was 2.2 (0.8) and 0.7 (0.4) at 6-month and 12-month follow-up visits, respectively. The percent reduction in body mass index (BMI) was an average of 13.0 % (1.4) and 19.7 % (3.4) at six months and 12 months, respectively. Lipid profile and blood pressure were improved at six months and 12 months. Conclusions: Oral semaglutide provided substantial glycemic and weight-loss benefits in adult individuals with T2DM.

In recent years, the demand for lighter and more compact equipment has been increasing due to reduce product manufacturing time and the viewpoint of environmental load. Therefore, further lightweighting is demanded with the ball screw. The ball screw has step shape on both ends of shaft. Therefore, the lightweighting method of drilling to center of ball screw shaft makes it difficult to significantly reduce weight due to the thicker wall thickness to secure the strength of the shaft end. The lightweighting method devised is to form the step shape of the shaft end by swaging process to have a structure with a large space inside, which enables a significant weight reduction. The appearance and surface roughness of the lightweight ball screw shaft does not differ from that of conventional shaft. The weight of 0.70 kg is 0.55 times that of the conventional shaft, which enables a significant weight reduction. In the rotary bending fatigue test, the fatigue limit decreases with the ratio of wall-thickness, but the allowable torsional stress of the conventional shaft is satisfied. The axial rigidity is approximately 0.76 times that of the conventional shaft, which is smaller due to the reduction of the area moment of inertia in the hollow structure. The maximum torque is 0.02 Nm, satisfying the specified value of ±0.41 Nm. The torque fluctuation ratio is ±5 %, satisfying the best accuracy grade of ±15 %. The quietness is equivalent to number of revolutions above 2100 and improve at number of revolutions below 1000. Vibration characteristic is on the high-frequency side of resonance frequency in bending vibration, which increases the allowable rotational speed by approximately 1.2 times.

The increasing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) and pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen oxides (NOx) have led to environmental concerns. Hybrid and electric powertrains are being introduced as means to reduce pollutant emissions, especially at the local level. Additionally, the finite availability of fossil fuel sources, which are used to produce gasoline and diesel, highlights the need for alternative technical solutions. One approach to partly address these issues is lightweighting, which involves reducing the weight of vehicles to minimize their impact during the use phase. Mathematical models are employed to simulate the longitudinal dynamics of vehicles and estimate the energy required to accomplish driving missions. Appropriate metrics have been developed to quantify energy-saving effects that, in addition, can support the decision making, design, and development phase of future vehicles. To facilitate this process, it would be useful to build a database of ERV (Energy Reduction Value) and FRV (Fuel Reduction Value) figures derived through a unified procedure. Such a database would be useful in evaluating the effectiveness of vehicle lightweighting and its impact on energy consumption and pollutant emissions. The last phase of the analysis is the assessment of the overall reduction in the environmental impact of the vehicle throughout its life cycle by using the LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) approach. From this study, it was possible to conclude that lightweighting can be an appropriate solution to improve the energy efficiency of vehicles and that appropriate metrics, can support the development of new car models. The potential to integrate enhanced energy efficiency, lower emissions, and higher safety features into our everyday vehicles would represent a significant advancement in the automotive industry. There is a gap in the scientific literature on the effects of lightweighting on vehicle dynamics and energy usage which deserves to be investigated.

The main part of polymer materials generated from fossil fuels do not degrade after completing their usage life and then begin to be waste in the environment. This situation has led to the emphasis on environmentally friendly, biodegradable, and bio‐based polymers obtained from renewable sources as an alternative. In recent years, several studies are concentrated on especially lightweight and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission limitations. In this work, the goal was to investigate at the same time environmentally friendly and lightweight polymer foam composites based on polylactic acid (PLA) polymer without lowering the performances of the materials. In this aim, polymer foam composites containing polypropylene (PP), polyamide 6 (PA6) and PLA were produced (PLA/PA6 (30:70) and PLA/PP (30:70)) with a chemical blowing agent (CBA) introduced at 1.5 wt.% to the polymer mixture. To improve the interpolymer compatibility and foaming activity maleic anhydride‐grafted polylactic acid (PLA‐g‐MA) was utilized as coupling agent (CA) in different ratios (1, 3 and 5 wt.%). From the evaluation of the polymer mixtures in terms of their lightness, thermal and mechanical strength, the most appropriate CA ratios were determined as 1 wt.% for foamed PLA/PP (30:70) mixtures and 3 wt.% for foamed PLA/PA6 (30:70) mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess teachers' adherence to and knowledge of restrictive diets. A descriptive crosssectional study was carried out between September and November 2018 at a private higher education institution in São Luís - MA. The sample consisted of 88 teachers of both sexes, aged between 18 and 50. The instrument used was a questionnaire that covered identification data: gender, age, origin, marital status and family income. For the descriptive analysis, the variables were expressed as means and standard deviations and the categorical variables as absolute and relative frequencies. The majority of teachers reported not having been on restrictive diets (64.5%). Among those who did, the most commonly cited were the Low Carb diet (60.6%) and the ketogenic diet (30.3%). The most prevalent reasons were aesthetic (57.6%) and body dissatisfaction (33.3%). The difficulties encountered by those who went on the diets were: hunger (69.7%), difficulty in following the diet (60.6%) and irritability (42.4%). In this sense, it is essential to adopt educational strategies to provide guidance on the harmful effects that an unbalanced diet without nutritional monitoring can have on nutritional status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 71-year-old female presented with progressive dysphagia and unexplained weight loss. Computed tomography and esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed invasive esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, which was initially treated with local radiation and esophageal stenting. Over the next year, the patient experienced multiple symptoms and hospital admissions consistent with a malignant tracheoesophageal fistula, despite negative findings on imaging, bronchoscopy, and EGD. Prophylactic antibiotics were initiated based on symptomatology to prevent septic episodes. Stent erosion into the membranous trachea was eventually observed. Neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser bronchoscopy was used periodically to debulk the invading tumor around the stent. A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube was also inserted to facilitate enteral nutrition and avoid aspiration pneumonia. The patient reported significant improvements in respiratory symptoms following each laser debridement and has progressed well beyond the life expectancy associated with malignant tracheoesophageal fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite joints are used in many industries such as aerospace, army, automotive, and marine because of their light, durable and corrosion-resistant properties. Composite joints can be made by applying different methods using elements such as adhesives, rivets, bolts, and nuts. Considering the lightness of a product, the most preferred connection type is adhesive joints. In most structures with adhesively bonded composite joints, weight is avoided to reduce energy consumption. In this study, fiber-reinforced thermoset plastics were manufactured as adherend, and two different adhesives were used; one has ductile, and the other has brittle properties. Holes were drilled on adhesively bonded single lap joints at different locations to investigate the mechanical effect of adhesives and adherend. The preferred specimen material was epoxy-infused e-glass fiber laminate manufactured using the vacuum infusion method. Tensile tests were performed on drilled, adhesively bonded joints. The forceelongation curves were generated and compared to each other depending on the positions of the drilled holes. The failure force of the samples with holes drilled in the middle of the bonded area was higher than those with holes drilled at the edge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents novel approaches for reducing the mass of the classical short backfire (SBF) antenna by using additive manufacturing and structural perforations. We first investigated techniques to create a 3D-printed structure with a conductive coating material. This approach resulted in a significant mass reduction (70%) compared with the conventional metallic structure. We performed parametric simulation studies to investigate the effects of the manufacturing process and showed that there was practically no difference in the performance. The largest source of error was the surface roughness and the conductivity of the metal paint. In a second design, we created perforations in the structure to further reduce the mass. We performed parametric studies to optimize mass reduction and to characterize the effects of the perforations and the surface roughness introduced during the 3D-printing process on the antenna. Antenna prototypes were fabricated and tested. The masses of the perforated 3D printed antenna were approximately 30% and 20% of the original aluminum design, respectively (70% and 80% reductions in mass, respectively). The good agreement among the original design, simulation, and measurements demonstrated the effectiveness of the approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1180MPa ultra-high strength steel is predicted to be applied to energy absorbing (EA) parts for automotive weight reduction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the applicability of 1180 MPa steel to actual EA components. Actual front-side-members applied with 1180 MPa steel were evaluated for their effects on weight and EA performance by FEM analysis and experiments. The experimental results of the developed structure showed 11% decrease in weight and 10% increase in EA from the base structure applied with 590 and 780 MPa steels. It was important to apply the spot weld fracture prediction model to improve the accuracy of FEM analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The author discusses a previous article which discussed IcoSema, an innovative approach to diabetes management that combines insulin icodec and semaglutide into a fixed-ratio formulation.