Recent Trends in the Petasis Reaction: A Review of Novel Catalytic Synthetic Approaches with Applications of the Petasis Reaction.

The Petasis reaction, also called the Petasis Borono-Mannich reaction, is a multicomponent reaction that couples a carbonyl derivative, an amine and boronic acids to yield substituted amines. The reaction proceeds efficiently in the presence or absence of a specific catalyst and solvent. By employing this reaction, a diverse range of chiral derivatives can easily be obtained, including α-amino acids. A broad substrate scope, high yields, distinct functional group tolerance and the availability of diverse catalytic systems constitute key features of this reaction. In this review article, attention has been drawn toward the recently reported methodologies for executing the Petasis reaction to produce structurally simple to complex aryl/allyl amino scaffolds.

11ß-HSD as a New Target in Pharmacotherapy of Metabolic Diseases.

Glucocorticoids (GCs), which are secreted by the adrenal cortex, are important regulators in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. For the proper functioning of the body, strict control of their release is necessary, as increased GCs levels may contribute to the development of obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and other pathological conditions contributing to the development of metabolic syndrome. 11ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type I (11ß-HSD1) locally controls the availability of the active glucocorticoid, namely cortisol and corticosterone, for the glucocorticoid receptor. Therefore, the participation of 11ß-HSD1 in the development of metabolic diseases makes both this enzyme and its inhibitors attractive targets in the pharmacotherapy of the above-mentioned diseases.

Hypoglossal Nerve Neuropathies-Analysis of Causes and Anatomical Background.

The hypoglossal nerve is the last, and often neglected, cranial nerve. It is mainly responsible for motor innervation of the tongue and therefore the process of chewing and articulation. However, tumors, aneurysms, dissections, trauma, and various iatrogenic factors such as complications after surgeries, radiotherapy, or airway management can result in dysfunction. Correct differential diagnosis and suitable treatment require a thorough knowledge of the anatomical background of the region. This review presents the broad spectrum of hypoglossal neuropathies, paying particular attention to these with a compressive background. As many of these etiologies are not common and can be easily overlooked without prior preparation, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of the special relations and characteristic traits of these medical conditions, as well as the most common concomitant disorders and morphological traits, influencing the clinical image. Due to the diverse etiology of hypoglossal neuropathies, specialists from many different medical branches might expect to encounter patients presenting such symptoms.

Trait-anxiety, depressive symptoms, family support and life satisfaction as determinants conditioning the degree of adherence of people in pre-older adults and older adults.

The objective of the study was to determine the degree of adherence to pharmacological treatment in people in pre-older adults and older adults age groups and to analyse the correlation between selected sociodemographic parameters, severity of anxiety as a trait, symptoms of depression, a sense of family support and satisfaction with life, and adherence in people over 55 years of age. The study was conducted in a group of 2,040 people (1,406 women, 634 men) aged 55 to 100 (the average age was 65.4). The following sociodemographic variables were analysed: age, gender, education. The following scales were used: State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS) and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). The Adherence in Chronic Diseases Scale (ACDS) was used to test adherence, understood as the implementation of the therapeutic plan. The results obtained in the ACDS ranged from 6 to 28 points; the median was 24 points (21-28). The multiple coefficients of determination (multiple R2 = 0.11; p < 0.001) indicated an explanation of approximately 11% of the value of the ACDS dependent variable. The total correlation of all variables (multiple R) with the ACDS general variable in the mean correlation was 0.33. Independent factors affecting adherence assessed in the ACDS were: severity of anxiety as a trait (p = -0.21 ± 0.03; p < 0.001), family support (p = 0.10 ± 0.04; p = 0.029), severity of depression symptoms (p = -0.08 ± 0.03; p = 0.005), age of respondents (p = 0.07 ± 0.02; p = 0.003) and satisfaction with life (p = 0.06 ± 0 0.03; p = 0.027). Severity of anxiety as a trait, age, severity of depressive symptoms, a sense of satisfaction with life and family support are important factors affecting adherence.

Dimensions of quality of life of older adults in relation to selected sociodemographic variables-a prospective cohort study.

Background: Based on its definition of an individual's quality of life, the World Health Organization identified the following six basic domains of this concept: physical domain, psychological domain, level of independence, social relationships, environment and spirituality. The aim of the study was to examine these quality of life dimensions in pre-older and older adults in relation to selected sociodemographic variables. Methods: The study included 2,040 adults aged 55 or older. It was conducted using a diagnostic survey by means of a questionnaire with sociodemographic questions and the EQ-5D-3L descriptive system. Results: The vast majority of male and female respondents reported no problems in most EQ-5D-3L dimensions. However, the mean EQ-5D-3L index score indicated a slight difference in scores between men and women. A statistically significant difference between male and female respondents in individual dimension scores was found only for the usual activities dimension. The proportion of respondents reporting no problems decreased with age in most dimensions, except for anxiety/depression. Age was statistically significantly correlated with all individual dimension scores and the index score. The vast majority of respondents across all education levels reported no problems in most dimensions. Education was statistically significantly correlated with all individual dimension scores and the index score. Conclusion: The vast majority of respondents across both sexes and all education levels reported no problems in most EQ-5D-3L dimensions. The proportion of respondents reporting no problems decreased with age in most EQ-5D-3L dimensions. Systematic research on dimensions of health-related quality of life will help design measures for healthy and successful ageing.

Depression and anxiety as predictors of performance status and life satisfaction in older adult neurological patients: a cross-sectional cohort study.

Neurological disorders are one of the leading causes of disability globally. Studies emphasise that the course and effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions may be influenced by emotional factors. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with neurological disorders and examine whether depression and tendency to respond with anxiety are predictors of disability in these patients. The study included 229 individuals with neurological disorders aged over 55. Our findings show that stroke patients are more likely to experience depressive symptoms and are more likely to display trait anxiety as compared with patients with other neurological disorders. Advanced age, female sex, low level of education and the presence of trait anxiety are associated with a higher severity of depressive symptoms. Stroke survivors have significantly poorer ECOG performance scores and are more likely to be incapable for work. Both depression and trait anxiety are significant predictors of neurological patients' performance status, and the presence of depressive symptoms is a determinant of these patients' level of satisfaction with life. An understanding of psychological risk factors for poorer performance status in individuals with neurological disorders will make it possible to plan prophylactic interventions in order to minimise negative health impacts and facilitate access to mental health facilities.

A three-headed psoas major muscle: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Multiple anatomical variations, from anomalous courses to additional structures, have been reported in muscles from different compartments of the human body. We report an extremely rare case of a psoas major muscle presenting as a three-headed structure with variable morphology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: During a routine dissection of the posterior abdominal wall of a 82-year-old male cadaver, an anomalous PM muscle with supernumerary head was identified, photographed and subjected to further measurement. RESULTS: Although the anatomy of the dissected posterior abdominal wall structures was typical, a three-headed psoas major muscle composed of superficial, intermediate and deep heads was identified. CONCLUSIONS: It is important to be aware of morphological variability of muscles, especially those considered to be constant, since an anomalous structure might interfere not only with their functions, but also lead to further clinical consequences.

The double-headed accessory iliacus muscle: a case report.

PURPOSE: Numerous accessory muscles are present in the human body, many of which are clinically significant. We present a case of an anomalous accessory iliacus composed of two heads, whose occurrence and anatomical location indicate a high probability of causing femoral nerve compression. METHODS: During a routine dissection of the posterior abdominal wall of a xx-year-old cadaver, a double headed accessory muscle was noted, measured and photographed. RESULTS: In addition to the normal anatomy of dissected structures from the posterior abdominal wall, an accessory iliacus muscle composed of superficial and deep heads was identified. In addition, the inferior roots of the divided femoral nerve located between the heads was found to follow an unusual course. CONCLUSIONS: It is important to be aware of morphological variability around structures such as double-headed accessory iliacus muscle presented in this study, due to their association with neurovascular bundles and hip joint. The reported atypical morphology is not widely known in the literature but might be of great clinical significance, therefore knowledge of such variability might be regarded in order to diagnose properly and introduce accurate treatment.

Morphological Variability of the Sural Nerve and Its Clinical Significance.

The sural nerve provides sensory innervation to the skin on the distal posterolateral third of the lower extremity. The morphological variants are characterized by high variability. However, it most commonly arises from a union of the medial sural cutaneous nerve and the peroneal communicating branch of the common fibular nerve. This article overviews the anatomical and clinical significance of the sural nerve. Despite the remarkable development of genetic diagnostics, sural nerve biopsy is still a very important tool to diagnose peripheral neuropathies such as diabetic, vascular and inflammatory neuropathies. Furthermore, the sural nerve is also commonly transplanted due to its characteristics. Such a procedure is applicable in cases of segmental nerve loss, but it is also used to restore potency in patients after radical prostatectomy. The knowledge of anatomical variants of the sural nerve is also crucial as it allows to minimize its damage during surgical procedures. Furthermore, during an ankle surgery, a nerve block can be used to complement anesthesia. The major aim of this work is to review contributions of the sural nerve to physiological and pathophysiological processes.

A Literature Review of the Morphological Variability in the Intrinsic Muscles of the Foot: Traps Awaiting Clinicians during Ultrasound.

Purpose: Like other muscular compartments of the human body, the intrinsic muscles of the foot present considerable morphological variability. The aim of this review was to present variations that can potentially cause problems during surgery but might be detected during an ultrasound examination. Materials and methods: PubMed was searched for relevant articles. The identified papers were listed, and citation tracking was performed. Results: Even though lower limb structure is well studied, the variations associated with the intrinsic muscles of the foot and their related ultrasound examination are not. Conclusions: The muscles and tendons of the foot demonstrate similar degrees of variance as other regions of the human body; however, this subject is not as widely covered in the literature. Further ultrasound studies are needed to build awareness of morphological variability in this region, as the findings could prevent misdiagnosis.

Yamaguchi esterification: a key step toward the synthesis of natural products and their analogs-a review.

The Yamaguchi reagent, based on 2,4,6-trichlorobenzoyl chloride (TCBC) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP), is an efficient tool for conducting the intermolecular (esterification) reaction between an acid and an alcohol in the presence of a suitable base (Et3N or i Pr2NEt) and solvent (THF, DCM, or toluene). The Yamaguchi protocol is renowned for its ability to efficiently produce a diverse array of functionalized esters, promoting high yields, regioselectivity, and easy handling under mild conditions with short reaction times. Here, the recent utilization of the Yamaguchi reagent was reviewed in the synthesis of various natural products such as macrolides, terpenoids, polyketides, peptides, and metabolites.

Role of Cyclins and Cytoskeletal Proteins in Endometriosis: Insights into Pathophysiology.

Endometriosis is a gynecological condition where endometrium-like tissue grows outside the uterus, posing challenges in understanding and treatment. This article delves into the deep cellular and molecular processes underlying endometriosis, with a focus on the crucial roles played by cyclins and cytoskeletal proteins in its pathogenesis, particularly in the context of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT). The investigation begins by examining the activities of cyclins, elucidating their diverse biological roles such as cell cycle control, proliferation, evasion of apoptosis, and angiogenesis among ectopic endometrial cells. A comprehensive analysis of cytoskeletal proteins follows, emphasizing their fundamental biological roles and their specific significance to endometriotic cell features. This review sheds light on the interconnected pathways through which cyclins and cytoskeletal proteins converge, contributing to the genesis and progression of endometriosis. Understanding these molecular complexities not only provides insight into the underlying causes of the disease but also holds promise for the development of specific therapeutic approaches, ushering in a new era in the management of this devastating disorder.

Measuring the Intensity of Stress Experienced and Its Impact on Life in Patients with Diagnosed Alcohol Use Disorder.

Alcohol addiction is characterized by extensive alcohol consumption that dominates other behaviours previously important to a patient. According to data from The State Agency for Prevention of Alcohol-Related Problems, up to 900,000 people in Poland are addicted to alcohol. On average, approximately 9.7 L of pure alcohol per capita was consumed in 2021. Alcohol addiction may cause severe health problems and is one the key risk factors for various diseases. Stress plays an important role in the process of alcohol addiction and is also a predictor for lower enjoyment in life. On the other hand, sense of coherence may be a stronger protective factor. The aim of our study was to verify the relation between the level of perceived stress among patients with alcohol addiction and satisfaction with life. Because sense of coherence is a disposition that allows for managing stress effectively, the latter should be reflected in the results of multivariate analyses that take both the level of stress and sense of coherence into account. In the present study, sense of coherence and perceived stress were negatively correlated; therefore, strengthening internal resources for managing difficult and stressful situations is recommended.

System of Work and Stress-Coping Strategies Used by Nurses of a Polish Hospital during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to increased stress levels experienced by employees of the healthcare system during their professional activities. The aim of the study was to compare the stress-coping strategies used by nurses in two different systems of work (one shift/two shifts) in a Polish hospital in 2021. The study used the Polish adaptation of the Mini-COPE questionnaire and the authors' data sheet. The results indicate that regardless of experience or the place and system of work, nurses more often chose problem-focused coping strategies. Conducting screening tests among nurses will help to establish effective strategies for coping with occupational stress, thus preventing professional burnout.

Parents' Knowledge of the Impact of Cystic Fibrosis on the Quality of Life of Children and Adolescents Suffering from This Disease as an Element of Patient Safety.

Parental perspective on the health, safety, and quality of life in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF). AIM OF THE STUDY: Assessment of the impact of a chronic disease such as cystic fibrosis (CF) on the quality of life and safety of children and adolescents as perceived by parents/caretakers. METHODS: The study was conducted at the Department of Lung Diseases of the Institute of Mother and Child, a branch of the Cystic Fibrosis Centre Children of Warsaw SZPZOZ in Dziekanów Lesny, the largest pediatric CF center in Poland, and in the Rodzinamuko group on Facebook. A total of 139 parents participated in the study. The study was conducted using the diagnostic survey method with the use of the Kid- & Kiddo-KINDLR questionnaire for examining the quality of life of children and adolescents and a demographic questionnaire. RESULTS: The perception of cystic fibrosis (CF) as a chronic disease varies based on parental residence and professional status. The well-being of children and adolescents with CF is tied to their parents' employment, particularly regarding schooling. Social interactions are influenced by the level of parental education. The quality of life in children and adolescents with CF is age-dependent, with younger children exhibiting higher quality of life. This age-quality of life relationship extends to physical well-being, emotional well-being, and school-related aspects. Furthermore, the emotional dimension of quality of life is affected by the child's age at the time of diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: The Kid- & Kiddo-KINDLR QoL Questionnaire for children with cystic fibrosis is a good tool to measure parental knowledge. The study shows the need for the whole family to understand and be aware of the impact of CF on family life. Parents may be tired or may misunderstand or miscommunicate the medical team's instructions, which may affect both family life and patient safety. To ensure patient safety, parents should work with healthcare professionals at hospitals or clinics but also at home. They should also account for the family as a whole, not just for the problems of the child with CF.

Professional competences to promote healthy ageing across the lifespan: a scoping review.

As societies age, the development of resources and strategies that foster healthy ageing from the beginning of life become increasingly important. Social and healthcare professionals are key agents in this process; therefore, their training needs to be in agreement with societal needs. We performed a scoping review on professional competences for social and health workers to adequately promote healthy ageing throughout life, using the framework described by Arksey and O'Malley and the Joanna Briggs Institute Guidelines. A stakeholder consultation was held in each of the participating countries, in which 79 experts took part. Results show that current literature has been excessively focused on the older age and that more attention on how to work with younger population groups is needed. Likewise, not all disciplines have equally reflected on their role before this challenge and interprofessional approaches, despite showing promise, have not been sufficiently described. Based on our results, health and social professionals working to promote healthy ageing across the lifespan will need sound competences regarding person-centred communication, professional communication, technology applications, physiological and pathophysiological aspects of ageing, social and environmental aspects, cultural diversity, programs and policies, ethics, general and basic skills, context and self-management-related skills, health promotion and disease prevention skills, educational and research skills, leadership skills, technological skills and clinical reasoning. Further research should contribute to establishing which competences are more relevant to each discipline and at what level they should be taught, as well as how they can be best implemented to effectively transform health and social care systems.

Existential and Spiritual Attitudes of Polish Medical and Nursing Staff towards Death.

Issues related to death are difficult areas of human existence and are most often considered in terms of ethical or non-ethical behaviour. The aim of the research was to examine the attitudes of Polish medical and nursing personnel towards death. The research was conducted among medical (110 people) and nursing staff (110 people) working in Polish hospitals and representing 16 regions. The Questionnaire About Attitudes to Death (DAP-R-PL) was used. The attitude of medical staff, taking into account the holistic approach to the patient in his existential-spiritual dimension, is an extremely important element of professional care. The study outlines the attitudes of medical and nursing staff towards death. Medical personnel under examination demonstrate a mature attitude towards death. In light of this research, health care workers show great commitment to helping dying people with existential and spiritual needs.

Beta-blockers in cardiac arrhythmias-Clinical pharmacologist's point of view.

ß-blockers is a vast group of antiarrhythmic drugs which differ in their pharmacokinetic and chemical properties. Some of them block ß-adrenergic receptors selectively while the others work non-selectively. Consequently, they reduce the influence of the sympathetic nervous system on the heart, acting negatively inotropic, chronotropic, bathmotropic and dromotropic. Although they have been present in medicine since the beginning of the 1960s, they still play a crucial role in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. They are also first-line group of drugs used to control the ventricular rate in patients with the most common arrhythmia-atrial fibrillation. Previous reports indicate that infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus may constitute an additional risk factor for arrhythmia. Due to the aging of the population in developed countries and the increase in the number of patients with cardiac burden, the number of people suffering from cardiac arrhythmias will increase in the upcoming years. As a result the role of above-mentioned beta-blockers will remain significant. Particularly noteworthy is propranolol-the oldest beta adrenergic antagonist, which in recent years has found additional applications due to its unique properties. In this article, we reviewed the accessible literature and summarized the current guidelines on the use of beta-blockers in the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias.

Does functional assessment of individuals aged 80-plus give rise to scientific discussion - considerations based on literature review.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: For many years, Europe has been struggling with the problem of an aging society. It is obvious that everyone would like to live longer while retaining good psycho-physical health and social activity. This, however, is influenced by many factors, such as health, which may be a form of limitation in everyday life or in performing social roles in accordance with the norms. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to analyze the use of scales for functional assessment of basic and complex daily living activities in individuals aged 80+ in various EU countries. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Potentially essential articles were obtained through review and analysis of the PUBMED (MEDLINE) database by entering the following keywords: functional activities of daily living, ADL, IADL, complex activities of daily living, basic activities of daily living. Article selection was based on the following inclusion criteria set by the authors and the appointed Advisory Board. RESULTS: Assessment of independence and fitness of elderly persons in the area of basic and complex activities of daily living provides information on the quality of life of senior individuals. Analysis of research data used for comparing functional independence of senior persons on the basis of ADL and IADL scales is difficult due to the discrepancies, which may be confusing for researchers studying this area. CONCLUSIONS: The use of different methodologies for assessing functional fitness of elderly individuals makes it difficult to interpret, compare and practically apply the outcomes. Standardization of research methods used for assessment of basic and complex daily living activities in 80+ persons would enable comparing the obtained data in an interdisciplinary perspective.

Tissue Factor and Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor in the Wound-Healing Process After Neurosurgery.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the concentrations of tissue factor (TF) and tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) in the blood of patients with a postoperative wound after neurosurgery. METHOD: Participants included 20 adult patients who underwent neurosurgery because of degenerative spine changes. The concentration of TF and TFPI in the patients' blood serum was measured 3 times: before surgery, during the first 24 hr after surgery, and between the 5th and 7th days after surgery. The control group comprised 20 healthy volunteers similar to the patient group with respect to gender and age. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was observed between TF concentration at all three measurement time points in the research group and TF concentration in the control group (p = .018, p = .010, p = .001). A statistically significant difference was found between TFPI concentration at the second time point in the research group and TFPI concentration in the control group (p = .041). No statistically significant within-subject difference was found between TF concentrations before and after surgery. A statistically significant within-subject difference was found between TFPI concentrations within 24 hr after surgery and 5-7 days after surgery (p = .004). CONCLUSION: High perioperative concentrations of TF indicate not only the presence of thrombophilia but also the importance of TF in the wound-healing process. Perioperative changes in TFPI concentrations are related to its compensatory influence on hemostasis in thrombophilic conditions.