Spinopelvic alignment and low back pain after total hip arthroplasty: a scoping review

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Spinopelvic alignment and low back pain after total hip arthroplasty: a scoping review Via Latest Results for BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders Abstract Objective Spinopelvic alignment is increasingly considered as an essential factor for maintaining an energy-efficient posture in individuals with normal or pathological status. Although several previous studies have shown that changes in the sagittal spinopelvic alignment may occur in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), no review of this area has been completed so far. Thus, the objective of this scoping review was to summarize the evidence investigating changes in spinopelvic alignment and low back pain (LBP) following THA. Data sources We adhered to the established methodology for scoping reviews. Four electronic databases were systematically searched from inception-December 31, 2021. Study selection We selected prospective or retrospective observational or intervention studies that included patients with THA. Data extraction Data extraction and levels of evidence were independently performed using standardized checklists. Data synthesis A total of 45 papers were included in this scoping review, involving 5185 participants with THA. Pelvic tilt was the most common parameter measured in the eligible studies (n = 26). The results were not consistent across all studies; however, it was demonstrated that the distribution of pelvic tilt following THA had a range of 25° posterior to 20° anterior. Moreover, decreased sacral slope and lower pelvic incidence were associated with increased risk of dislocation in patients with THA. Lumbar spine scoliosis did not change significantly after THA in patients with bilateral hip osteoarthritis (5.50°(1.16°) vs. 3.73°(1.16°); P-value = 0.29). Finally, one study indicated that LBP improvement was not correlated with postoperative changes in spinopelvic alignment parameters. Several methodological issues were addressed in this study, including no sample size calculation and no type-I error adjustment for outcome multiplicity. Conclusions Changes in spinopelvic alignment may occur after THA and may improve with time. Patients with a THA dislocation usually show abnormal spinopelvic alignment compared to patients without a THA dislocation. LBP usually improves markedly over time following THA. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Mitochondria in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Mitochondria in the Pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Via Latest Results for Current Rheumatology Reports Abstract Purpose of Review Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibody production and inflammation in multiple organs. In this article, we present data on how various mitochondria pathologies are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease including the fact that they serve as a reservoir of autoantigens which contribute to the upending of lymphocyte tolerance. Recent Findings Mitochondrial DNA from various cell sources, including neutrophil extracellular traps, platelets, and red blood cells, elicits the production of type I interferon which contributes to breaking of peripheral tolerance. Mitochondrial DNA also serves as autoantigen targeted by autoantibodies. Mutations of mitochondrial DNA triggered by reactive oxygen species induce T cell cross-reactivity against self-antigens. Selective gene polymorphisms that regulate mitochondrial apoptosis in autoreactive B and T cells represent another key aspect in the induction of autoimmunity. Summary Various mitochondrial abnormalities, including changes in mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, genetic polymorphism, mitochondrial DNA mutations, and apoptosis pathways, are each linked to different aspects of lupus pathogenesis. However, whether targeting these mitochondrial pathologies can be used to harness autoimmunity remains to be explored. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Luminescent properties of metal–organic frameworks embedded in methacrylated gelatin for its application in biocompatible 3D printable materials

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Luminescent properties of metal–organic frameworks embedded in methacrylated gelatin for its application in biocompatible 3D printable materials Via Latest Results for Journal of Nanoparticle Research Abstract In this work, nanoparticles of a luminescent metal–organic framework were embedded in a photopolymerized methacrylated gelatin. Steady-state and time-resolved luminescence spectroscopy was used to explore the drying and the photopolymerization processes, as well as the effect the methacrylated gelatin had on the quantum yield and decay time of the nanoparticles. A drying time of 27.5 min was needed for a 20 µL droplet, and the proposed intensity ratio analysis resulted in a minimum irradiation time of 18.6 min, at a lamp intensity of 2.7 W/m2, for the photopolymerization process to end. The presence of the methacrylated gelatin decreased the quantum yield of the nanoparticles and influenced the emission decay time. The intensity ratio showed that a concentration between 1 and 3% w/V of nanoparticles in the solution is required for the luminescence to be observed and to avoid the important quenching effect. Graphical abstract View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Role of drug delivery technologies in the success of COVID-19 vaccines: a perspective

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Role of drug delivery technologies in the success of COVID-19 vaccines: a perspective Via Latest Results for Drug Delivery and Translational Research Abstract The triumphant success of mRNA vaccines is a testimony to the important role drug delivery technologies have played in protecting billions of people against SARS-CoV-2 (or the Corona Virus Disease 2019; COVID-19). Several lipid nanoparticle (LNP) mRNA vaccines were developed and have been instrumental in preventing the disease by boosting the immune system against the pathogen, SARS-CoV-2. These vaccines have been built on decades of scientific research in drug delivery of mRNA, vaccines, and other biologicals. In this manuscript, several leading and emerging scientists in the field of drug delivery share their perspective on the role of drug delivery technologies in developing safe and efficacious vaccines, in a roundtable discussion. The authors also discussed their viewpoint on the current challenges, and the key research questions that should drive this important area of research. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Embedded Computational Heart Model for External Ventricular Assist Device Investigations

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Embedded Computational Heart Model for External Ventricular Assist Device Investigations Via Latest Results for Cardiovascular Engineering and Technology Abstract Purpose External cardiac assist devices are based on a promising and simple concept for treating heart failure, but they are surprisingly difficult to design. Thus, a structured approach combining experiments with computer-based optimization is essential. The latter provides the motivation for the work presented in this paper. Methods We present a computational modeling framework for realistic representation of the heart's tissue structure, electrophysiology and actuation. The passive heart tissue is described by a nonlinear anisotropic material law, considering fiber and sheetlet directions. For muscle contraction, an orthotropic active-strain model is employed, initiated by a periodically propagating electrical potential. The model allows for boundary conditions at the epicardium accounting for external assist devices, and it is coupled to a circulation network providing appropriate pressure boundary conditions inside the ventricles. Results Simulated results from an unsupported healthy and a pathological heart model are presented and reproduce accurate deformations compared to phenomenological measurements. Moreover, cardiac output and ventricular pressure signals are in good agreement too. By investigating the impact of applying an exemplary external actuation to the pathological heart model, it shows that cardiac patches can restore a healthy blood flow. Conclusion We demonstrate that the devised computational modeling framework is capable of predicting characteristic trends (e.g. apex shortening, wall thickening and apex twisting) of a healthy heart, and that it can be used to study pathological hearts and external activation thereof. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Prostate MRI using a rigid two-channel phased-array endorectal coil: comparison with phased array coil acquisition at 3 T

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Prostate MRI using a rigid two-channel phased-array endorectal coil: comparison with phased array coil acquisition at 3 T Via Latest Results for Cancer Imaging Abstract Background To compare image quality, lesion detection and patient comfort of 3T prostate MRI using a combined rigid two-channel phased-array endorectal coil and an external phased-array coil (ERC-PAC) compared to external PAC acquisition in the same patients. Methods Thirty three men (mean age 65.3y) with suspected (n = 15) or biopsy-proven prostate cancer (PCa, n = 18) were prospectively enrolled in this exploratory study. 3T prostate MRI including T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) was performed using an ERC-PAC versus PAC alone, in random order. Image quality, lesion detection and characterization (biparametric PI-RADSv2.1) were evaluated by 2 independent observers. Estimated signal-to-noise ratio (eSNR) was measured in identified lesions and the peripheral zone (PZ). Patient comfort was assessed using a questionnaire. Data were compared between sequences and acquisitions. Inter/intra-observer agreement for PI-RADS scores was evaluated. Results Twenty four prostate lesions (22 PCa) were identified in 20/33 men. Superior image quality was found for ERC-PAC compared to PAC for T2WI for one observer (Obs.1, p < 0.03) and high b-value DWI for both observers (p < 0.05). The sensitivity of PI-RADS for lesion detection for ERC-PAC and PAC acquisitions was 79.2 and 75% for Obs.1, and 79.1 and 66.7%, for Obs.2, without significant difference for each observer (McNemar p-values ≥0.08). Inter−/intra-observer agreement for PI-RADS scores was moderate-to-substantial (kappa = 0.52–0.84). Higher eSNR was observed for lesions and PZ for T2WI and PZ for DWI using ERC-PAC (p < 0.013). Most patients (21/33) reported discomfort at ERC insertion. Conclusion Despite improved image quality and eSNR using the rigid ERC-PAC combination, no significant improvement in lesion detection was observed, therefore not supporting the routine use of ERC for prostate MRI. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Protective effects of interleukin-22 on oxalate-induced crystalline renal injury via alleviating mitochondrial damage and inflammatory response

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Protective effects of interleukin-22 on oxalate-induced crystalline renal injury via alleviating mitochondrial damage and inflammatory response Via Latest Results for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology Abstract Oxalate-induced crystalline kidney injury is one of the most common types of crystalline nephropathy. Unfortunately, there is no effective treatment to reduce the deposition of calcium oxalate crystals and alleviate kidney damage. Thus, proactive therapeutic is urgently needed to alleviate the suffering it causes to patient. Here, we investigated whether IL-22 exerted nephroprotective effects to sodium oxalate-mediated kidney damage and its potential mechanism. Crystalline kidney injury models were developed in vitro and in vivo that was often observed in clinic. We provided evidence that IL-22 could effectively decrease the accumulation of ROS and mitochondrial damage in cell and animal models and reduce the death of TECs. Moreover, IL-22 decreased the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome and mature IL-1β in renal tissue induced by sodium oxalate. Further studies confirmed that IL-22 could play an anti-inflammatory role by reducing the levels of cytokines suc h as IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α in serum. In conclusion, our study confirmed that IL-22 has protective effects on sodium oxalate-induced crystalline kidney injury by reducing the production of ROS, protecting mitochondrial membrane potential, and inhibiting the inflammatory response. Therefore, IL-22 may play a potential preventive role in sodium oxalate-induced acute renal injury. Key points • IL-22 could reduce sodium oxalate-mediated cytotoxicity and ameliorate renal injury. • IL-22 could alleviate oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by sodium oxalate. • IL-22 could inhibit inflammatory response of renal injury caused by sodium oxalate. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Acute cardiac autonomic and haemodynamic responses to leg and arm isometric exercise

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Acute cardiac autonomic and haemodynamic responses to leg and arm isometric exercise Via Latest Results for European Journal of Applied Physiology Abstract Objectives Acute cardiovascular responses following a single session of isometric exercise (IE) have been shown to predict chronic adaptations in blood pressure (BP) regulation. It was hypothesised that exercises which recruit more muscle mass induce greater reductions in BP compared to exercises using smaller muscle mass. To test this hypothesis, the current study aimed to compare the acute haemodynamic and autonomic responses to a single session of isometric wall squat (IWS) and isometric handgrip (IHG) training. Methods Twenty-six sedentary participants performed a single IWS and IHG session in a randomised cross-over design, with training composed of 4 × 2-min contractions, with 2-min rest, at 95 HRpeak and 30% MVC respectively. Haemodynamic and cardiac autonomic variables were recorded pre, during, immediately post, and 1-h post-exercise, with the change from baseline for each variable used for comparative analysis. Results During IWS exercise, there was a significantly greater increase in systolic BP (P < 0.001), diastolic BP (P < 0.001), mean BP (P < 0.001), heart rate (P < 0.001), and cardiac output (P < 0.001), and a contrasting decrease in baroreflex effectiveness index (BEI) and cardiac baroreceptor sensitivity (cBRS). In the 10-min recovery period following IWS exercise, there was a significantly greater reduction in systolic BP (P = 0.005), diastolic BP (P = 0.006), mean BP (P = 0.003), total peripheral resistance (TPR) (P < 0.001), BEI (P = 0.003), and power spectral density (PSD-RRI) (P < 0.001). There were no differences in any variables between conditions 1-h post exercise. Conclusions Isometric wall squat exercise involving larger muscle mass is associated with a significantly greater post-exercise hypotensive response during a 10-min recovery window compared to smaller muscle mass IHG exercise. The significantly greater reduction in TPR may be an important mechanism for the differences in BP response. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

How I do it: endonasal transcribriform approach for resection of esthesioneuroblastoma

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader How I do it: endonasal transcribriform approach for resection of esthesioneuroblastoma Via Latest Results for Acta Neurochirurgica Abstract Background Olfactory neuroblastoma, also known as esthesioneuroblastoma, accounts for only 3–6% of sinonasal malignancies but confers a 40% 5-year overall survival. Method The authors describe techniques for the endonasal, minimally invasive resection of an esthesioneuroblastoma in a 69-year-old man who presented with headaches and anosmia and describe surgical nuances and their effect on adjuvant therapy planning. Conclusion This approach, along with microsurgical techniques, helped increase tumor visualization, improved marginal resection, and reduced surgical risk, which may improve patient outcomes. Multilayered reconstruction with a synthetic dural substitute and creation of a nasoseptal flap were performed to reduce postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Thermophysics of pristine and functionalized carbon nanotube reinforced paraffin/EVA composites as phase change materials: a molecular dynamics study

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Thermophysics of pristine and functionalized carbon nanotube reinforced paraffin/EVA composites as phase change materials: a molecular dynamics study Via Latest Results for Journal of Nanoparticle Research Abstract Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted to investigate the thermophysical properties of paraffin/ethylene–vinyl acetate (EVA)/double-walled carbon nanotube (DWNT) composites as phase change materials (PCM). In an assessment of the mechanical properties and thermal conductivity of paraffin/EVA/DWNT composites, the effect of the mass fraction of DWNT was assessed microscopically. A total of five molecular models were constructed, ranging in DWNT content from 0 to 17.1 wt%. MD simulations show that DWNT has had a positive impact on heat transfer efficiency, according to the non-equilibrium simulation results, which could be probably attributed to the high thermal conductivity of DWNT. As the DWNT content increased, however, more interfaces would form, and the interfacial thermal resistance would increase, reducing the mean free path of phonon and hindering heat transfer. In addition, three types of functional groups attached to DWNT, including methyl, vinyl acetate, and pentadecane, were used to investigate the influence of functional groups on the thermophysical properties between DWNT and matrix. It reveals that the functional groups would increase higher defect density and cause stronger interfacial boundary scattering, thereby limiting the axial heat transfer of DWNT. Nevertheless, the functional group increases the contact area between DWNT and the matrix material. Thus, it elevates the adhesion at the interface, reducing the interfacial thermal resistances and improving the radial heat transfer of DWNT. Therefore, it is necessary to consider DWNT with the appropriate type and density of functional groups to maximize the PCM's thermal performance. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Gastric duplication cyst: a challenging EUS differential diagnosis between subepithelial gastric lesion and exophytic pancreatic cystic neoplasm—a case report and a literature review

xlomafota.13 shared this article with you from Inoreader Gastric duplication cyst: a challenging EUS differential diagnosis between subepithelial gastric lesion and exophytic pancreatic cystic neoplasm—a case report and a literature review Via Latest Results for Clinical Journal of Gastroenterology Abstract Gastric duplication cysts are rare congenital malformation with a potential neoplastic progression and they may represent a challenge in differential diagnosis with exophytic pancreatic cyst neoplasm. We describe a case of a 38-year old man, complaining of recurrent epigastric pain due to a large abdominal mass, referred to our Hospital for EUS evaluation. Differential diagnosis was between gastric duplication cyst and exophytic pancreatic cyst because of FNA pointed out amylase 1280 UI/L and CEA 593.33 ng/mL. Despite antibiotic prophylaxis, an overinfection of the lesion occurred after the FNA, likely due to the technical failure to drain the cyst completely. Afterwards, the patient was referred to surgery and the pathologist confirmed the diagnosis of gastric duplication cyst. In this setting, EUS procedure has gained a leading play, complementary to traditional imaging tests, although its role has been not yet standardized in the reported literature. Here , we describe and discuss our demanding case, and we propose an algorithm to simplify and standardize the diagnostic workup. View on the web Inoreader. Take back control of your news feed. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.