Phylogenetic relationships of the Mangrove Hummingbird, "Amazilia" boucardi (Apodiformes: Trochilidae) of Costa Rica / Relaciones filogenéticas del Colibrí manglero "Amazilia" boucardi (Apodiformes: Trochilidae) de Costa Rica

Abstract Introduction: A recent revision of the generic classification of the Trochilidae based on DNA sequences revealed many inconsistencies with the current generic classification, largely based on plumage characters subject to homoplasy, especially in the Trochilini, the largest tribe. A thorough generic reorganization brought the classification into accord with the phylogeny, but due to lack of genetic data, two species remained unclassified. One of these was the Mangrove Hummingbird, "Amazilia" boucardi, endemic to Costa Rica and included in the IUCN red list of threatened species. Objective: To obtain molecular evidence to clarify the generic relationships of "A." boucardi. Methods: We isolated DNA from tissues of this species and amplified 4 nuclear and 4 mitochondrial fragments and compared these with homologous fragments from 56 species in the Trochilini, constructing phylogenetic trees with maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods. Results: Our phylogenetic analyses confirmed the placement of boucardi in the Trochilini and definitely excluded it from Amazilia but placed it with high confidence in the genus Chrysuronia Bonaparte, 1850, within which its closest relative is C. coeruleogularis, which also inhabits mangroves. Conclusions: Our genetic data based on nuclear and mitochondrial regions clearly indicate the relationship of A. boucardi and L. coeruleogularis. Moreover, it is also supported by their habitat distribution in the mangroves of the Pacific coast of Costa Rica and Western Panama. Therefore, we suggested to exclude A. boucardi as "incertae sedis".

Resumen Introducción: Una revisión reciente de la clasificación de la familia Trochilidae con base en secuencias de ADN demostró muchas incongruencias con la clasificación genérica previa, que había sido hecho con base en caracteres del plumaje muy sujetos a homoplasia, especialmente en la tribu más grande, Trochillini. Una reorganización de los géneros logró llevar su clasificación genérica a la concordancia con la filogenia, pero debido a la ausencia de datos genéticos, dos especies permanecieron sin clasificar. Una de estas fue el colibrí de manglar Amazilia boucardi, una especie endémica de Costa Rica, considerada como amenazada en la lista roja de la UICN. Objetivo: Obtener evidencia molecular para esclarecer las relaciones genéricas de A. boucardi. Métodos: Se aisló ADN de tejidos de esta especie y se amplificaron 4 fragmentos de ADN del núcleo y 5 de la mitocondria, y se compararon con fragmentos homólogos de 56 especies en la tribu Trochillini, generando árboles filogenéticos con métodos de máxima verosimilitud y bayesiano. Resultados: Los análisis filogénticos obtenidos confirmaron la ubicación de boucardi en Trochilini y definitivamente la excluyó del género Amazilia, pero la ubicó con un alto grado de confianza en el género Chrysuronia Bonaparte, 1850, dentro los cuales su pariente más cercano es C. coeruleogularis, que también habita manglares. Conclusiones: Nuestros datos genéticos basados en regiones nucleares y mitocondriales indican claramente la relación entre A. boucardi and L. coeruleogularis. Es más, lo anterior se sustenta por su distribución en los manglares de la costa Pacífica de Costa Rica y oeste de Panamá. Por lo tanto, sugerimos excluir a A. boucardi como "incertae sedis".

Residuo de Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) como absorbente de combustibles para aplicación pasiva en ingeniería contra incendios / Elaeis guineensis (Arecaceae) residue as a fuel sorbent for passive application in fire-fighting engineering

Resumen Introducción: Los vertidos de líquidos inflamables pueden producir accidentes graves, principalmente en plantas industriales y en carretera. Para prevenir la dispersión de derrames, se utilizan diversas formas de recolecta, como la absorción con sólidos porosos. Residuos agroindustriales pueden ser aprovechados como materiales sorbentes de líquidos inflamables. Objetivo: Determinar la capacidad de absorción de las biomasas residuales del pedúnculo de la palma aceitera (Elaeis guineensis) y del endocarpio del fruto de coyol (Acrocomia sp.) para cuatro líquidos orgánicos inflamables. Métodos: Las biomasas residuales de E. guineensis y de Acrocomia sp. se evaluaron como sorbentes para combustibles derramados (diésel, queroseno de aviación, queroseno comercial y gasolina). Se midió la cantidad de líquido absorbida por las biomasas a 24 ºC durante una semana, y su cinética de desorción a 50 ºC, usando balanzas de secado. Resultados: La propiedad sorbente del material de Acrocomia sp. no fue satisfactoria, comparada con el pedúnculo de E. guineensis, debido a diferencias en arquitectura residual del material orgánico. Esta última biomasa muestra una capacidad de absorción para los combustibles de 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 a 24 ºC. La diatomita absorbe mayor cantidad de los combustibles estudiados, pero la difusión de estos fluidos a 50 ºC por la matriz mineral es solo 0.26 ± 0.09 veces lo observado para el material de E. guineensis, como resultado del mayor grado de tortuosidad de los poros de la diatomita. Conclusiones: El pedúnculo de palma aceitera (E. guineensis) mostró un adecuado potencial desempeño para la aplicación pasiva en la mitigación de los riesgos de incendio, con respecto a la diatomita. El endocarpio del fruto de Acrocomia sp. no resultó útil para esta operación de recuperación.

Abstract Introduction: Spills of flammable liquids can lead to serious accidents, mainly in industrial plants and on roads. To prevent the spread of spills, various forms of collection are used, such as absorption with porous solids. Agroindustrial waste can be used as sorbent materials for flammable liquids. Objective: To determine the sorption capacity of the residual empty-fruit bunch of oil-palm (Elaeis guineensis) and the macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) nutshell for four organic flammable liquids. Methods: The residual biomasses of E. guineensis and Acrocomia sp. were assessed as sorbents for spilled fuels (diesel, jet fuel, commercial kerosene, and gasoline). Volumetric measurement of liquid-fuel absorption at 24 ºC was taken during a week. Desorption was measured at 50 ºC as the drying kinetics, by using moisture scales. Results: The sorption capacity of the Acrocomia sp. material was not satisfactory, compared to the E. guineensis residual material, due to differences in the residual architecture of the organic material. This last can absorb 2.4 ± 0.2 cm3 g-1 at 24 ºC, during a one-week period. Diatomite absorbs greater quantities of the organic liquids but, the fluids diffusion at 50 ºC is 0.26 ± 0.09 times more slowly in the mineral matrix, because of the greater pore tortuosity in this mineral matrix. Conclusions: The oil-palm empty fruit bunch of E. guineensis, showed lesser but adequate performance than the sorbing behavior for fire hazard mitigation of diatomite. The nutshell of macaw palm (Acrocomia sp.) did not prove to be useful for this recovery operation.

Segregación escolar del alumnado con necesidades educativas especiales en Educación Infantil en el contexto local / School segregation of students with special educational needs in Early Childhood Education in the local context

Esta investigación busca profundizar en la segregación escolar del alumnado con necesidades educativas especiales del segundo ciclo de Educación Infantil estimando su magnitud, determinando la incidencia de la titularidad del centro y de su adscripción al Programa Bilingüe y describiendo su evolución. Para ello, se realiza un estudio ex post facto con datos de los 10.182 estudiantes del segundo ciclo de Educación Infantil matriculados en alguno de los 77 centros ordinarios públicos y privados-concertados situados en dos ciudades de tamaño medio-grande de la Comunidad de Madrid. Los resultados indican que la magnitud de la segregación escolar está en torno al 0.20 (ISG); que la incidencia de la titularidad es baja (4.6 %), pero es alta la del Programa Bilingüe (17.2 % de promedio); y que la segregación ha descendido ligeramente en los últimos años, pero las diferencias entre centros atendiendo a su titularidad y adscripción al Programa Bilingüe han crecido. Con ello, se concluye que hay que prestar atención a la segregación en Educación Infantil y tomar medidas para combatirla. También se destaca la necesidad de replantear el Programa Bilingüe por su incidencia en la segregación escolar. (AU)

This research aims to explore the school segregation of students with special educational needs in the second cycle of Early Childhood Education by estimating its magnitude, determining the incidence of school ownership and affiliation to the Bilingual Program, and describing its evolution. To achieve this, we conduct an ex post facto study with data from the 10,182 students enrolled in one of the 77 public and private-subsidised schools in the Community of Madrid. The results indicate that the magnitude of school segregation is around 0.20 (ISG); that the incidence of school ownership is low (4.6 %), while the incidence of the Bilingual Program is high (17.2 % on average); and that segregation has slightly decreased in recent years, however the differences between schools based on ownership and affiliation to the Bilingual Program have increased. Therefore, we conclude that it is necessary to address segregation in Early Childhood Education and that measures need to be taken to combat it. We also highlight the importance of reconsidering the Bilingual Program due to its impact on school segregation. (AU)

Segregación escolar del alumnado con necesidades educativas especiales en Educación Infantil en el contexto local / School segregation of students with special educational needs in Early Childhood Education in the local context

Esta investigación busca profundizar en la segregación escolar del alumnado con necesidades educativas especiales del segundo ciclo de Educación Infantil estimando su magnitud, determinando la incidencia de la titularidad del centro y de su adscripción al Programa Bilingüe y describiendo su evolución. Para ello, se realiza un estudio ex post facto con datos de los 10.182 estudiantes del segundo ciclo de Educación Infantil matriculados en alguno de los 77 centros ordinarios públicos y privados-concertados situados en dos ciudades de tamaño medio-grande de la Comunidad de Madrid. Los resultados indican que la magnitud de la segregación escolar está en torno al 0.20 (ISG); que la incidencia de la titularidad es baja (4.6 %), pero es alta la del Programa Bilingüe (17.2 % de promedio); y que la segregación ha descendido ligeramente en los últimos años, pero las diferencias entre centros atendiendo a su titularidad y adscripción al Programa Bilingüe han crecido. Con ello, se concluye que hay que prestar atención a la segregación en Educación Infantil y tomar medidas para combatirla. También se destaca la necesidad de replantear el Programa Bilingüe por su incidencia en la segregación escolar. (AU)

This research aims to explore the school segregation of students with special educational needs in the second cycle of Early Childhood Education by estimating its magnitude, determining the incidence of school ownership and affiliation to the Bilingual Program, and describing its evolution. To achieve this, we conduct an ex post facto study with data from the 10,182 students enrolled in one of the 77 public and private-subsidised schools in the Community of Madrid. The results indicate that the magnitude of school segregation is around 0.20 (ISG); that the incidence of school ownership is low (4.6 %), while the incidence of the Bilingual Program is high (17.2 % on average); and that segregation has slightly decreased in recent years, however the differences between schools based on ownership and affiliation to the Bilingual Program have increased. Therefore, we conclude that it is necessary to address segregation in Early Childhood Education and that measures need to be taken to combat it. We also highlight the importance of reconsidering the Bilingual Program due to its impact on school segregation. (AU)

Factores de riesgo transdiagnósticos de los trastornos emocionales en adultos: una revisión sistemática / Transdiagnostic risk factors of emotional disorders in adults: A systematic review

La comorbilidad es más la regla que la excepción en salud mental y, sobre todo, en el caso de la ansiedad y la depresión. Los modelos transdiagnósticos estudian los procesos subyacentes para mejorar el tratamiento y la comprensión de la salud mental. Objetivo: Esta revisión sistemática busca evidencias sobre los factores de riesgo transdiagnósticos para la ansiedad y la depresión en la población clínica diagnosticada de estas condiciones psicopatológicas, analizando los diferentes tipos o categorías de factores identificados. Método: Se registró una revisión sistemática en PROSPERO (número de registro CRD42022370327) y se diseñó de acuerdo con las guías PRISMA-P. La calidad del estudio fue evaluada por dos revisores independientes con conocimiento del campo para reducir el posible sesgo. Resultados: Cincuenta y tres artículos fueron examinados y las variables transdiagnósticas fueron agrupadas en tres categorías: psicológicas, biológicas y socioculturales. Conclusiones: La categoría más estudiada fue la de variables psicológicas, en especial los procesos cognitivos, afecto negativo y neuroticismo, intolerancia a la incertidumbre, sensibilidad a la ansiedad. Los factores biológicos y socioculturales requieren más estudio para sustentar su enfoque transdiagnóstico.(AU)

Comorbidity is more the rule than the exception in mental health, specifically in the case of anxiety and depression. Transdiagnostic models studied the underlying processes to improve mental health treat-ment and understating. Objective:This systematic review searchs for evi-dence on transdiagnostic risk factors for anxiety and depression in the clin-ical population diagnosed with these psychopathological conditions, by an-alysing the different types or categories of factors identified.Methods:A sys-tematic review was registered in PROSPERO (registration number CRD42022370327) and was designed according to PRISMA-P guidelines. Two independent reviewers with field knowledge assessed the study quality to reduce bias.Results: Fifty-three articles were examined, and the transdi-agnostic variables were grouped into three categories: psychological, bio-logical, and sociocultural.Conclusions:The most studied category was that of psychological variables, especially cognitive processes, negative affect, and neuroticism, intolerance of uncertainty, anxiety sensitivity. Biological and sociocultural factors require more study to support their transdiagnos-tic approach.(AU)

Fluorescence Intensity between Standard versus Diluted Indocyanine Green to Evaluate Flap Perfusion in Rats.

The ideal dose for indocyanine green (ICG) has not been established yet, although 5 mg per mL is widely accepted for free flap evaluation. Due to its high price and rarity in developing countries, this preliminary study aimed to find the lowest concentration of ICG without reducing the fluorescence quality read by near-infrared camera in animal models. An experimental study was conducted on 25 Wistar rats divided into five groups based on the injected ICG, which was in 5 mg per mL, 3.75 mg per mL, 2.5 mg per mL, 1.25 mg per mL, and 0.5 mg per mL concentrations. The epigastric flap was elevated and confirmed to be vital on the fifth day. Upon confirmation, bolus IV injection of ICG was given via the tail, and the flap was read using near-infrared camera. The 25 different videos are randomized and rated individually in a blind manner by five microsurgeons, chosen beforehand. The videos are evaluated with a scoring system ranging from 0 to 4, assessing fluorescence visibility and flap vasculature. Nonetheless, the intraclass correlation coefficient is 0.779. There was no difference between standard and diluted ICG concentrations to evaluate flap perfusion. The 2.5 mg per mL concentration of ICG was the most favorable. This finding is not clinically relevant for application in human subjects yet. However, this study shows promising results for further usage of ICG in daily practice at a lower cost.

Use of Bacterial DNA Concentration in Ascites as a Marker for Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis.

Background and aims: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a common and serious complication in patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Precise quantification of bacterial DNA (bactDNA) and the related inflammatory response might add further information on the course of disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between bactDNA, cytokine levels and clinical outcome. Methods: Ascites and serum samples of 98 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis (42 with SBP and 56 without SBP) as well as serum samples of 21 healthy controls were collected. BactDNA in ascites and serum was detected and quantified by 16S rRNA PCR. Concentrations of IL-1ß, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-10 were measured by a LEGENDplexTM multi-analyte flow assay. Clinical data were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Results: BactDNA was detected more frequently in ascites of patients with SBP (n = 24/42; 57.1%) than in ascites of patients without SBP (n = 5/56; 8.9%; P < 0.001). Additionally, IL-6 levels in both ascites and serum were significantly higher in patients with SBP (ascites P < 0.001, serum P = 0.036). The quantity of bactDNA in ascites was strongly correlated with polymorphonuclear neutrophil count in ascites (r = 0.755; P < 0.001) as well as ascites IL-6 levels (r = 0.399; P < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to diagnose SBP provided an AUC of 0.764 (95% CI: 0.661-0.867) for serum IL-6 levels, an AUC of 0.810 (95% CI: 0.714-0.905) for ascites IL-6 levels, and an AUC of 0.755 (95% CI: 0.651-0.858) for bactDNA levels in ascites. Conclusions: The correlation between the amount of bactDNA and IL-6 confirms the pathophysiological relevance of bactDNA and IL-6 as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of SBP.

Adaptive capacity to reduce disaster risks in informal settlements.

The eMalahleni Local Municipality (eLM) in Mpumalanga province, South Africa, has a number of informal settlements because of the influx of people seeking employment in the municipal area. These informal settlements are exposed to a number of hazards, including underground fires, air and water pollution, sinkholes, abandoned mining areas and acid mining drainage. South Africa's National Development Plan (NDP) incorporates the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals, which are intended to upgrade informal settlements on suitable land. The Department of Human Settlement recognised the gap in the policy because upgrading only included physical structures and did not include adaptive capacity for communities to create resilience to withstand disasters. The researcher used a case study research design for the inquiry intended to recommend adaptive capacity and reduce disaster risks in informal settlements in the eLM. Purposive sampling was used to select 25 participants from eLM, provincial government departments and informal settlements. The data were analysed using thematic analysis based on the study's conceptual framework. The research findings revealed that the government has not done much to involve vulnerable communities during the development of policies to reduce disaster risks within informal settlements. In particular, the failure of the government to promote and reinforce public participation in disaster risk reduction programmes leaves the vulnerable communities defenceless. Contribution: This study strengthens the intergovernmental structures and public participation to reduce disaster risks in communities. This study discourages a silos mentality and encourages coordination between government departments to identify root causes by applying the pressure and release model for effective disaster risk reduction.

Molecular characterization of carbapenem and ceftazidime-avibactam-resistant Enterobacterales and horizontal spread of bla NDM-5 gene at a Lebanese medical center.

Introduction: In the battle against multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, ceftazidime- avibactam (CZA) stands as a pivotal defense, particularly against carbapenemresistant (CR) Gram-negative pathogens. However, the rise in resistance against this drug poses a significant threat to its effectiveness, highlighting the critical need for in-depth studies about its resistance mechanisms. Methods: This research focuses on the genomic characterization of CR- and CZA-resistant Escherichia coli (n=26) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n=34) strains, harboring the blaNDM and/or blaOXA-48-like genes, at a major Lebanese tertiary care medical center, using whole genome sequencing (WGS). Results: Our findings revealed a notable prevalence of blaNDM in all K. pneumoniae strains isolates, with 27 of these also harboring blaOXA-48. On the other hand, E. coli strains predominantly carried the blaNDM-5 gene. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) identified a predominance of ST383 among K. pneumoniae strains, which possessed a multi-replicon IncFIB-IncHI1B plasmid harboring the blaNDM-5. Additionally, various Inc group plasmids in K. pneumoniae across multiple sequence types were found to carry the blaNDM. Similarly, diverse STs of E. coli were observed to carry blaNDM-5 on different plasmids. Discussion: The study underscores NDM carbapenemases as a paramount resistance mechanism in Lebanon,jeopardizing critical last-resort treatments. It also illuminates the role of varied sequence types and mobile genetic elements in the spread of NDM resistance,stressing the urgent need for strategies to mitigate this threat, especially in nosocomial infections.

Effect of occupational exposure to vat-textile dyes on follicular and luteal hormones in female dye workers in Abeokuta, Nigeria.

Background: Some synthetic dyes used mainly in textile industries have been associated with endocrine disruption, resulting in infertility, among other disorders. It is unknown if occupational exposure to Vat textile dyes among premenopausal dyers alters hormonal levels. Objectives: We aimed at determining the probable effects of occupational exposure to Vat dyes on reproductive hormones of female textile dyers in the follicular and luteal phases while relating this to age categories and duration of exposure. Methods: Thirty-three premenopausal Vat textile dyers at "Itoku", Abeokuta, Nigeria, among a population of about 80 female dyers were age and sex-matched with 55 non-exposed (control) female participants. Using semi-structured questionnaires, socio-demographic, occupational details and the LMP of participants were obtained. Serum samples were collected in follicular and luteal phases and assayed for female sex hormones using Enzyme Immunoassay. Mann-Whitney U and Z- statistic were used for comparison of the two groups. P-value < 0.05 was considered to be significant. Results: In the follicular phase, the result showed a lower mean FSH ranking (in age category ≤20 years) and higher (p<0.05) Estradiol ranking (in age category 31-40 years) in the exposed than the unexposed. Mean ranks of Progesterone and Estradiol in the luteal phase (age category 31-40 years) were higher (p<0.05) in the exposed, while Estradiol (age category ≥41years) ranked lower (p<0.05). Prolactin demonstrated a significant inverse relationship with the duration of exposure. Conclusion: Occupational exposure to Vat dye among female dyers in Abeokuta is associated with some sex hormone disruption which appears to be age and duration of exposure-related.

Frequency of Fecal Carriage of ESBL Resistance Genes in Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from Cancer Patients at Laquintinie Hospital, Douala, Littoral Region, Cameroon.

Background. Opportunistic infections are the second cause of death among cancer patients. This study aimed at determining the antimicrobial profile and the prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-gene carriage of Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates among cancer patients at the Douala Laquintinie Hospital, Littoral Region of Cameroon. Between October 2021 and March 2023, 507 study participants were recruited among whom 307 (60.55%) were cancer patients, compared to 200 (39.45%) noncancer patients. Fifty-eight P. aeruginosa isolates were isolated from fecal samples of forty-five cancer patients and thirteen noncancer patients using Cetrimide agar. The antimicrobial resistance profile of the isolates was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase genes among P. aeruginosa isolates. P. aeruginosa showed significant resistance rates in cancer patients compared to noncancer patients to imipenem, cefotaxime, and ceftazidime, piperacillin-tazobactam, ticarcillin-clavulanic acid, and ciprofloxacin. The multidrug resistance (MDR) rate was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in cancer patients than in noncancer patients. The frequency of beta-lactamase genes in the 58 ESBL-producing P. aeruginosa isolates was determined as 72.41% for bla TEM, 37.93% for bla OXA, 74.14% for blaCTX-M, and 44.83% for bla SHV genes. The study revealed an alarmingly high prevalence of fecal carriage of ESBL-producing P. aeruginosa with a high rate of MDR among cancer patients. It indicates that regular monitoring and surveillance of ESBL-producing P. aeruginosa among cancer patients are needed to improve the management of patients.

Correspondence Between Vocal-Verbal Behavior and Go/No-Go Responses During the Successive Matching-to-Sample Procedure.

In the current study, eight college students were exposed to a successive matching-to-sample (S-MTS) procedure utilizing non-verbal auditory stimuli consisting of common sounds. During emergent relations tests, participants were asked to talk aloud, and their vocal-verbal statements were transcribed and categorized as class-consistent, class-inconsistent, or irrelevant. All participants met emergence criterion for symmetry and four did so for transitivity/equivalence. Analysis of vocal-verbal statements showed a positive correlation between class-consistent statements emitted by participants and correct selection responses during S-MTS tasks. Such results suggest possible verbal mediation during emergent relations tests.

Comprehensive Analysis of Craniopharyngioma: Epidemiology, Clinical Characteristics, Management Strategies, and Role of Radiotherapy.

Background/Aim: Craniopharyngiomas pose challenges in diagnosis and management due to their rare occurrence and diverse clinical manifestations. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive analysis of cranio-pharyngioma, including its epidemiological trends, clinical presentations, radiological characteristics, surgical interventions, and the role of radiotherapy. Patients and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 23 patients diagnosed with craniopharyngioma at our hospital from August 2017 to July 2019. Data regarding demographics, clinical presentation, radiological findings, surgical interventions, and adjuvant therapies were collected and analyzed. Results: Craniopharyngiomas exhibited a bimodal age distribution, with peaks in childhood and late adulthood. Clinical presentations varied between pediatric and adult patients, with headache and nausea/vomiting predominant in children, and visual disturbances and hypogonadism more common in adults. Radiological imaging revealed predominantly suprasellar localization and varying tumor consistency. Surgical resection was the primary treatment modality, with post-operative complications including diabetes insipidus and cerebrospinal fluid leak. Histological analysis showed distinct subtypes, with the adamantinomatous subtype predominant in children and the papillary subtype in adults. Adjuvant radiotherapy was administered in cases of incomplete resection or tumor recurrence. Conclusion: This study provides comprehensive insights into the epidemiology, clinical characteristics, radiological features, surgical interventions, and role of radiotherapy in craniopharyngioma management. Understanding these aspects is crucial for tailoring optimal treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes in this complex clinical scenario.

The Effect of Targeted Temperature Therapy on Antioxidant Levels in Patients With Spontaneous Circulation After Cardiac Arrest.

Introduction In this study, we aimed to measure the change in total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant stress (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and nuclear factor erythroid 2 (Nrf-2) levels during the treatment period in patients who restored spontaneous circulation return after cardiac arrest with targeted temperature management (TTM) therapy in our hospital. Methods The study included 36 patients who were hospitalized in the anesthesia intensive care unit and coronary intensive care unit of our hospital and were treated with TTM therapy after cardiac arrest. TAS, TOS, OSI, and Nrf-2 levels were measured at 0 (beginning), 12, 24, and 48 (end) hours of TTM therapy. Results The mean age of the patients participating in the study was 54.25±17.10. TAS and TOS levels decreased gradually during TTM therapy, but statistically significant decrease was observed at the end of the hour. When Nrf-2 and OSI levels were evaluated, it was found that no statistically significant difference was observed during the TTM therapy. Conclusion In our study, the oxidant-antioxidant balance was preserved in patients who received TTM therapy after cardiac arrest. We predict TTM therapy is effective on oxidative stress after cardiac arrest and should be applied for at least 48 hours.

Radiopaque FeMnN-Mo composite drawn filled tubing wires for braided absorbable neurovascular devices.

Flow diverter devices are small stents used to divert blood flow away from aneurysms in the brain, stagnating flow and inducing intra-aneurysmal thrombosis which in time will prevent aneurysm rupture. Current devices are formed from thin (∼25 µm) wires which will remain in place long after the aneurysm has been mitigated. As their continued presence could lead to secondary complications, an absorbable flow diverter which dissolves into the body after aneurysm occlusion is desirable. The absorbable metals investigated to date struggle to achieve the necessary combination of strength, elasticity, corrosion rate, fragmentation resistance, radiopacity, and biocompatibility. This work proposes and investigates a new composite wire concept combining absorbable iron alloy (FeMnN) shells with one or more pure molybdenum (Mo) cores. Various wire configurations are produced and drawn to 25-250 µm wires. Tensile testing revealed high and tunable mechanical properties on par with existing flow diverter materials. In vitro degradation testing of 100 µm wire in DMEM to 7 days indicated progressive corrosion and cracking of the FeMnN shell but not of the Mo, confirming the cathodic protection of the Mo by the FeMnN and thus mitigation of premature fragmentation risk. In vivo implantation and subsequent µCT of the same wires in mouse aortas to 6 months showed meaningful corrosion had begun in the FeMnN shell but not yet in the Mo filament cores. In total, these results indicate that these composites may offer an ideal combination of properties for absorbable flow diverters.

The Versatile Teaching Eye: an affordable, 3D-printed model eye for simulating ophthalmic examination.

Purpose: To describe the Versatile Teaching Eye (VT Eye), a 3D-printed model eye designed to provide an affordable examination simulator, and to report the results of a pilot program introducing the VT Eye and an ophthalmic training curriculum at a teaching hospital in Ghana. Methods: TinkerCAD was used to design the VT Eye, which was printed with ABS plastic. The design features an adapter that permits use of a smartphone as a digital fundus. We developed a set of digital flashcards allowing for an interactive review of a range of retinal pathologies. An analog fundus was developed for practicing traditional slit lamp and indirect examinations as well as retinal laser practice. The model was used for a period of 2 weeks by ophthalmic trainees at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana, to practice indirect ophthalmoscopy, slit lamp biomicroscopy, smartphone funduscopy, and retinal image drawing. Results were assessed at by means of a pre-/post-training survey of 6 residents. Results: The VT Eye accommodates diverse fundus examination techniques. Its 3D-printed design ensures cost-effective, high-quality replication. When paired with a 20 D practice examination lens, the digital fundus provides a comprehensive, interactive training environment for <$30.00 (USD). This device allows for indirect examination practice without requiring an indirect headset, which may increase the amount of available practice for trainees early in their careers. In the Ghana pilot program, the model's use in indirect examination training sessions significantly boosted residents' confidence in various examination techniques. Comparing pre- and post-session ratings, average reported confidence levels rose by 30% for acquiring clear views of the posterior pole, 42% for visualizing the periphery, and 141% for capturing important pathology using personal smartphones combined with a 20 D lens (all P < 0.05). Conclusions: The VT Eye is readily reproducible and can be easily integrated into ophthalmic training curricula, even in regions with limited resources. It offers an effective and affordable training solution, underscoring its potential for global adoption and the benefits of incorporating innovative technologies in medical education.

Oral health education strategies for patients living with cardiovascular disease within hospital settings: a scoping review.

Objective: To identify and describe the impact of current oral health education programmes provided to patients in cardiology hospital wards and outpatient clinics. Methods: This review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis for Scoping Reviews statement. Searches were conducted using electronic databases: Cochrane, Medline, and Scopus, as well as grey literature searching. Results: Three eligible studies were identified. All included studies reported generalised poor oral health in their participants at baseline, with significant improvement at follow-up. They all reported significant reductions in plaque deposits and gingival bleeding. One study reported significantly less bacteria on participant tongues, as well as fewer days with post-operative atrial fibrillation in the intervention group. Furthermore, in this study, one patient in the intervention group developed pneumonia, whilst four patients in the control group did. Conclusion: Oral health education for patients with cardiovascular disease is limited and many have poor oral health. Educational programmes to improve oral health behaviours in patients with cardiovascular disease can improve both oral and general health outcomes. Implications for public health: Oral disease is a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Integrating oral health education into cardiology hospital settings is a simple strategy to improve access to oral health information and improve both oral and cardiovascular outcomes.

The effects of an exercise program on inflammation in adults who differ according to obstructive sleep apnea severity.

Exercise improves chronic inflammation and is recommended as a first-line medical or behavioral treatment for OSA with obesity. We examined whether the effects of an exercise program on inflammatory blood markers differed according to severity of OSA among obese adults. Overweight (BMI > 27 kg/m2) adults were evaluated for OSA using overnight polysomnography and subsequently classified as exhibiting no-to-mild OSA (AHI < 15 events/hour) or moderate-to-severe OSA (AHI ≥ 15 events/hour). Cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition assessed by DXA, fasting metabolic parameters and adipokines (i.e., glucose, insulin, leptin and adioponectin), and multiple markers of inflammation (i.e., CRP, IL-4, IL-8 and TNF-α) were measured at baseline (Pre) and following a 6-week (3 days per week) comprehensive exercise program (Post). Ten adults (Age: 48 ± 8 years; W:6; M:4) with no/mild OSA and 12 adults (Age: 54 ± 8 years; W:5; M:7) with moderate/severe OSA completed all aspects of the trial. No significant differences in age, cardiorespiratory fitness, body composition, fasting metabolic parameters and most inflammatory markers were observed between groups at baseline. Exercise training decreased total fat mass (Pre: 41,167 ± 13,315 g; Post: 40,311 ± 12,657 g; p = 0.008), leptin (Pre: 26.7 ± 29.6 pg/ml; Post: 22.7 ± 19.4 pg/ml; p = 0.028) and adiponectin (Pre: 16.6 ± 10.9 µg/ml; Post: 11.0 ± 10.6 µg/ml; p = 0.004) in those with moderate/severe OSA. Among those with no/mild OSA, exercise training resulted in a decrease in total fat mass (Pre = 37,332 ± 20,258 g; Post: 37,068 ± 18,268 g, p = 0.037). These data suggest that while 6 weeks of exercise reduced adipokines in those with moderate-to-severe OSA, it was not sufficient to improve common markers of inflammation among overweight adults with OSA.

Inflammatory eye disease is a risk factor for future microscopic colitis: A nationwide population-based matched case control study.

BACKGROUND: Microscopic colitis (MC) is an inflammatory disorder of the colon. To date, the relationship between inflammatory eye diseases and MC is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether inflammatory eye disease (iridocyclitis and episcleritis) is a risk factor for MC. METHODS: We conducted a nationwide matched case control study in Sweden leveraging the ESPRESSO-study (a Swedish database containing data on all biopsies from the gastrointestinal tract from 1965 to 2017). In total, we identified 14,338 patients with biopsy-verified MC (diagnosed from 1981 to 2017). Patients with MC were matched (by age, sex, county and year of birth) with 68,753 controls from the general population and the occurrence of preceding inflammatory eye diseases (defined as diagnosis of episcleritis or iridocyclitis) in the two groups was compared. Multivariable adjusted odds ratios (aORs) were calculated using conditional logistic regression conditioned on the matching variables. RESULTS: A majority of patients with MC were women (71.9%) and the median age at MC diagnosis was 63.3 years (interquartile range (IQR) = 50.7-72.6). Some 225 (1.6%) MC patients had an earlier record of inflammatory eye disease compared with 614 (0.9%) in controls. These figures corresponded to an aOR of 1.77 (95% CI = 1.52-2.07) for inflammatory eye diseases in patients with MC. Compared to siblings, the aOR for previous inflammatory eye diseases in MC was 1.52 (95% CI = 1.17-1.98) and patients treated with budesonide, as a proxy for clinically significant disease, had a somewhat higher aOR for previous inflammatory eye diseases. CONCLUSION: Inflammatory eye diseases are more common in patients subsequently being diagnosed with MC. Our findings highlight that these conditions may have shared causes and inflammatory pathways and are of clinical interest to gastroenterologists, ophthalmologists and general practitioners.