FS Groups Research Articles

Changes in the importance and performance of low-sodium management among childcare center cooks in Yongin, South Korea, after salinometer support programs: a descriptive study

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the importance and performance of sodium reduction practices among childcare center cooks in the Yongin area before and after a 3-month salinometer support program. Methods: In total, 313 cooks employed in childcare centers in Yongin were surveyed before and after participating in a salinometer support program. The survey included questions on general information, sodium-related dietary habits, and perceived importance and performance levels of sodium reduction approaches in the purchasing, cooking, and serving areas. The centers were divided into childcare centers registered as group-feeding facilities (FS group, n = 68) and those not registered as such (non-FS group, n = 245). The differences between the two groups were analyzed. Results: The overall importance levels increased significantly after the program in both the FS-group (P < 0.001) and non-FS group (P = 0.005). The overall performance levels also increased significantly in both groups (P < 0.001 for all). Consequently, the significant difference between the importance and performance levels disappeared in both groups after the program. However, unlike the FS group, which showed no significant differences between the importance and performance levels after the program in all three areas, the non-FS group still demonstrated lower performance levels than importance levels in the purchasing (P = 0.011) and serving (P = 0.034) areas after the program. Conclusions: The use of salinometers significantly enhanced the performance and importance of low-sodium management practices among cooks in childcare centers, especially in the FS group. The continuous monitoring of salinity measurements and tailored education specialized for the FS and non-FS groups are recommended.

Evaluating the Histopathological Effects of Short-term and Long-term Doses of Ketamine Injection on Heart Tissue of Male and Female Rats

Introduction: Ketamine is a general anesthetic drug that acts by inhibiting the NMDA receptoran important component of excitatory neurotransmission. Existing of NMDA receptors all over the central nervous system and the special type of anesthesia induced by ketamine, called dissociative anesthesia has led to its use as an analgesic and also paved the way for abuse. Ketamine affects the cardiovascular system by increasing indices such as heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac output. Methods: For further evaluation of ketamine effects on heart tissue, we used 15 male and 15 female Wistar rats and divided them into 6 groups, including male and female control groups (MC and FC), male and female short-term exposure (MS and FS), and male and female long-term exposure (ML and FL) to ketamine. Each group included 5 Wistar rats. The ML and FL groups received 75mg of ketamine once a week for 4 weeks in the posterior muscle of the thigh and the MS and FS groups received 25mg of ketamine 3 times a week for 4 weeks at the same site. Results: After preparation of histopathological slides, it was observed that only in the group of female mice receiving long-term ketamine, empty spaces and intercellular distances increased, and in the group of male mice receiving long-term ketamine, in addition to the increase of intercellular spaces, tissue accumulations were also observed in the heart tissue. Conclusion: This study showed that long-term ketamine injection in both sexes can cause some qualitative changes in heart tissue. Expanding the duration of long-term exposure to ketamine and more studies based on sexes can lead to more findings.

Functional seizures and binge eating disorder: A cross-sectional study

ObjectiveFunctional seizures (FS) are brief, involuntary changes in behaviour or consciousness, distinct from epileptic seizures, potentially associated with psychological dissociation. Binge eating disorder (BED) was linked to psychological and somatic dissociation also. However, any connection between FS and BED is insufficiently explored. We aimed to assess BED prevalence in individuals with FS, anxiety/depression (AD), and healthy subjects (HS), to investigate dissociation’s link to binge eating, and to explore psychological characteristics of FS individuals. MethodParticipants underwent evaluations based on ILAE guidelines and DSM-5 criteria, including questionnaires assessing binge eating, dissociation, anxiety, depression and personality traits. Inclusion criteria were age > 18 years, no history of substance abuse, no history of epilepsy, and no use of medications inducing eating disorders. ResultsWe found significantly more frequent and severe binge-eating symptoms in individuals with FS and AD compared to HS. Depression and dissociation correlated with binge-eating symptoms in both AD and FS groups. The PID-5 facet ’Perseveration’ predicted binge-eating attitudes only in FS individuals; they reported more childhood emotional neglect and increased disinhibition compared do AD people. DiscussionThis study underscores the commonality of binge-eating symptoms in FS individuals, emphasizing its association with dissociation symptoms. This finding support the hypothesis of a link between dissociation and eating disorders. Unique clinical characteristics in individuals with FS were identified, as a compulsive dimension related to binge-eating symptoms, providing a comprehensive understanding of their psychological profile and guiding targeted therapeutic interventions.

Food Insecurity and Community-Based Food Resources Among Caregivers of Hospitalized Children.

Children's hospitals are implementing interventions to connect families to community-based resources. This study describes food insecurity (FI) and food resource knowledge, need, and use among families with a hospitalized child. Between November 2020 and June 2022, 637 caregivers of hospitalized children in an urban 42-ZIP-code area were surveyed as part of a randomized controlled trial. The United States Department of Agriculture 18-item Household Food Security Survey was used to evaluate 12-month food security (food secure [score of 0=FS]; marginally secure [1-2=MFS]; insecure [3-18=FI]). Food resource knowledge, need, and use were described by food security status and examined using Cochran-Armitage tests. The distribution of local resources was obtained from a database and mapped by ZIP code. Comparing FI (35.0%) with MFS (17.6%) and FS (47.4%) groups, the rates of resource knowledge were lower (70.2% vs 78.5%, 80.5%), and the rates of need (55.1% vs 30.6%, 14.2%) and use (55.3% vs 51.4%, 40.8%) were higher. Rates of food resource knowledge increased linearly with increasing food security (FI to MFS to FS; P = .008), whereas the rates of resource need (P < .001) and use (P = .001) decreased with increasing food security. There were 311 community-based organizations across 36 ZIP codes with participants (range/ZIP code = 0-20, median = 8). Half of families with a hospitalized child experienced FI or MFS. Although families exhibited high food resource knowledge, nearly half of families with FI had unmet food needs or had never used resources.

Minimally invasive versus conventional methods for aortic root surgery: Choosing the right approach.

Partial upper sternotomy is preferred for isolated aortic valve replacement because of its optimal surgical visibility and favorable cosmetic outcomes; however, it is not commonly used for aortic root surgery, and the conventional median sternotomy is still the preferred method for most surgeons. We aimed to compare the safety and effectiveness of a minimally invasive approach (partial sternotomy [PS]) and conventional approach (median sternotomy [FS]) for aortic root surgery. Patients who underwent aortic root surgery at our hospital from 2016 to 2021 were retrospectively enrolled and divided into two groups. After propensity score matching, the conventional group included 156 patients and the minimally invasive group-57 patients. Bicuspid aortic valves were observed in 63 (40.4%) and 33 (57.9%) patients in the FS and PS groups, respectively. Valve-sparing surgery was performed on 69 (44.2%) and 30 (52.6%) patients in the FS and PS groups, respectively. The minimally invasive approach was beneficial in terms of blood loss during the first 24 h after surgery (p = 0.029) and postoperative blood transfusion (p = 0.023). The survival rates and freedom from reoperation or severe aortic regurgitation after the David procedure were comparable between the standard and minimally invasive groups (p = 0.25; p = 0.66) at mid-term follow-up. A minimally invasive approach for aortic root surgery can be safely performed as the standard approach. Partial upper sternotomy has the advantage of lower blood loss in the early postoperative period and does not negatively affect the results of valve-sparing root replacement.

Fruquintinib in combination with sintilimab or TAS-102 as third-line or above treatment in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: a real-world study.

For metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), the efficacy of third-line or above treatments is not ideal. Combining targeted vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) biological agents with chemotherapy or anti-programmed death receptor 1 (PD-1) treatment can bring longer survival benefits to patients with mCRC compared with the application of a single drug. In this study, fruquintinib was used as the research drug, and the main purpose was to compare the efficacy and safety of fruquintinib in combination with sintilimab (FS) or trifluridine and tipiracil (TAS-102) (FT) in the third-line or above treatment in mCRC patients. Based on real-world clinical practice, mCRC patients who progressed after second-line or higher-line chemotherapy regimens and received FS or FT as third-line or above treatment from December 2020 to November 2022 were analyzed. Progression-free survival (PFS) was the primary endpoint. Safety, disease control rate (DCR) and objective response rate (ORR) were secondary end points. In the FS group, 47 patients received FS, and in the FT group, 45 patients received FT. The DCR values in the FS and FT groups were 80.9% (38/47) and 55.6% (25/45), respectively (P<0.05). The median PFS (mPFS) in the FS group was 6.0 months, and the mPFS in the FT group was 3.5 months (P<0.05). Most adverse events (AEs) were grade 1-2 in severity. As a third-line or above regimen in mCRC patients, compared to FT, treatment with FS provides a higher DCR and longer mPFS and is better tolerated. The combination of fruquintinib and sintilimab may become a new treatment option for mCRC patients.

Overview and Prevention of Complications During Full-Endoscopic Cervical Spine Surgery

Objective: Posterior full-endoscopic cervical foraminotomy/discectomy (PECF) is used to treat medically intractable cervical radiculopathy. PECF has many potential advantages; however, despite its minimally invasive nature, complications of PECF are possible, including hemorrhage, infection, injury to neural tissue, damage to the facet joint and musculature, loss of cervical lordosis, and subsequent progression to cervical kyphosis. We examined complications following PECF and reviewed the relevant literature.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 101 patients who underwent PECF for either disc herniation (DH, 59 patients) or foraminal stenosis (FS, 42 patients). After surgery, the patients were encouraged to ambulate and were discharged 2–3 days later without the use of a neck collar. Events occurring during hospitalization were documented in the hospital information system. Patients were followed-up for a mean period of 21±26 months (range, 1–110 months).Results: Clinical parameters improved from 1 month postoperatively and were maintained throughout the follow-up period, with no significant differences between the DH and FS groups (p&gt;0.05). Complications occurred in 14 patients (14%) with no significant difference between the DH (8 of 59, 14%) and FS (6 of 42, 14%) groups (p&gt;0.05). The most common complication was dural tear, followed by motor weakness, sensory changes, hematoma collection, incomplete decompression, reoperation, and wrong-level surgery. Two patients underwent reoperation due to symptomatic hematoma collection and symptom recurrence 3 years postoperatively.Conclusion: The incidence of complications following PECF was 14%. Although most were transient, an understanding of both reported and unreported complications, along with thorough preparation, could reduce the occurrence of PECF-associated complications.

Amygdala subfield and prefrontal cortex abnormalities in patients with functional seizures

BackgroundFunctional seizures (FS) are paroxysmal episodes, resembling epileptic seizures, but without underlying epileptic abnormality. The aetiology and neuroanatomic associations are incompletely understood. Recent brain imaging data indicate cerebral changes, however, without clarifying possible pathophysiology. In the present study, we specifically investigated the neuroanatomic changes in subregions of the amygdala and hippocampus in FS. MethodsT1 MRI scans of 37 female patients with FS and 37 age-matched female seizure naïve controls (SNC) were analyzed retrospectively in FreeSurfer version 7.1. Seizure naïve controls included patients with depression and anxiety disorders. The analysis included whole-brain cortical thickness, subcortical volumes, and subfields of the amygdala and hippocampus. Group comparisons were carried out using multivariable linear models. ResultsThe FS and SNC groups did not differ in the whole hippocampus and amygdala volumes. However, patients had a significant reduction of the right lateral amygdala volume (p = 0.00041), an increase of the right central amygdala, (p = 0.037), and thinning of the left superior frontal gyrus (p = 0.024). Additional findings in patients were increased volumes of the right medial amygdala (p = 0.031), left anterior amygdala (p = 0.017), and left dentate gyrus of the hippocampus (p = 0.035). ConclusionsThe observations from the amygdala and hippocampus segmentation affirm that there are neuroanatomic associations of FS. The pattern of these changes aligned with some of the cerebral changes described in chronic stress conditions and depression. The pattern of detected changes further study, and may, after validation, provide biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment.

Median Effective Dose of an Etomidate-Propofol Mixture with Dezocine in Inhibiting the Response to Gastroscope Insertion: Gender Differences in a Randomized Controlled Study Using Dixon’s Up-and-Down Method

What Is Known and Objective. Appropriate doses of sedatives are crucial for a successful, painless upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Hence, we conducted a randomized controlled study to explore the effects of dezocine on the median effective dose (ED50) of the etomidate-propofol (E-P) mixture in prohibiting response to gastroscope insertion in patients of different genders. Methods. Patients aged 18–65 years enrolled in the study of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) with physical status I or II undergoing elective gastroscopy were included. Patients were randomly assigned to the male normal saline group (MS group), male dezocine group (MD group), female normal saline group (FS group), and female dezocine group (FD group). All patients were anesthetized with an E-P mixture of 1 : 1. The FD and MD groups were intravenously injected (i.v.) 50 µg/kg dezocine 5 min before anesthesia, while the FS and MS groups were injected with an equal volume of normal saline 5 min before anesthesia. According to the preexperiment, the initial dose of the E-P mixture for the FD and MD groups was 0.4 and 0.3 mL/kg for the FS and MS groups. The variation proportion was set as 0.9 between dosages. Dixon’s up-and-down method was adopted to confirm the dose of the E-P mixture for the next patient, which was reduced if the insertion was performed successfully; otherwise, the dose was increased. Centered isotonic regression was employed to determine the ED50 and 90% confidence interval (CI) values of the E-P mixture in the four groups. The total amount of E-P mixture consumed was recorded as well as the adverse events of patients. Results. The ED50 and 90% CI of the MS, MD, FS, and FD groups were 0.315 (0.285–0.349), 0.206 (0.175–0.237), 0.329 (0.305–0.355), and 0.207 (0.188–0.227) mL/kg, respectively. The MD group was &lt;MS group ( P ≤ 0.001 ), and the FD group was &lt;FS group ( P ≤ 0.001 ); no statistical difference was observed between the MS and FS groups and MD and FD groups. Dezocine reduced the total amount of E-P mixture consumed and the overall incidence of adverse events. What Is New and Conclusion. Dezocine significantly decreased the ED50 of the E-P mixture in inhibiting the response of patients to gastroscope insertion and the occurrence rate of adverse events. Further, gender had no impact on the ED50 of the E-P mixture.

Changes in ocular biological parameters after cycloplegia based on dioptre, age and sex

The effects of cycloplegia on ocular biological parameters in children have been extensively studied, but few studies have compared these parameters between different refractive states, ages, and sexes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in ocular biometry before and after cycloplegia in different groups based on dioptre, age and sex. We examined a total of 2049 participants in this cross-sectional study. A comprehensive eye examination was conducted before cycloplegia. Cycloplegia was implemented with the application of atropine or tropicamide. Ocular biological parameters were evaluated after cycloplegia, including axial length (AL), mean keratometry (K), flat keratometry (K1), steep keratometry (K2), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD) and white-to-white (WTW) distance. All the participants were categorized based on dioptre, age and sex. Statistical analysis was performed with paired t tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Regarding dioptre, AL was found to be increased significantly in the Fs, Ast and FA (p < 0.05) postcycloplegia groups. We observed significant increases in K, K1, K2 and ACD in the Fs group (p < 0.05) after cycloplegia. Regarding age, we found significant increases in AL, CCT and ACD in group 1 (p < 0.05), but AL decreased significantly in groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.05) postcycloplegia. There were no significant changes found in K, K1 and K2 in the three groups after cycloplegia (p > 0.05). Regarding sex, AL and WTW were found to decrease significantly among males and increase significantly among females (p < 0.05) postcycloplegia, while K, K1 and K2 showed the opposite trends. This study showed that there were differences in some ocular biological parameters after cycloplegia across different groups; in particular, there were significant differences in AL, CCT and ACD. Attention should be devoted to the influence of cycloplegia in clinical work.

Perspectives about COVID-19 vaccine boosters among the U.S. paralysis community.

We sought to explore perspectives of the paralysis community about COVID-19 vaccine boosters. Data were collected through an online survey with multiple choice and open-ended questions from adult persons with paralysis (PWP), persons with other disabilities, and other members of the paralysis community (Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Supporters, FS). PWP and persons with other disabilities were grouped into one group (persons with disabilities, PWD) for most analyses. Multiple choice questions were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analyses were conducted to compare the PWD and FS groups; open-ended responses were coded using Hamilton's rapid assessment process. A total of 774 participants (740 PWD and 304 FS) responded to the survey. PWD were less likely to agree that they felt well-informed about boosters, that the boosters were safe, and that their state and federal governments provide transparent information about boosters. Of those who had not received a booster, PWP were less likely than the rest of the sample to plan to receive one. Both groups expressed similar concerns about the boosters, but distrust was a more common concern for PWD than for FS. Both groups expressed concerns about side effects and the boosters affecting a health condition, but PWP expressed concerns unique to paralysis and neurological difficulties. Although PWD shared concerns with the FS group, distrust is a larger issue and concerns unique to PWD that must be considered in public health efforts to ensure that the paralysis community is treated equitably. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).

Femtosecond laser microstructuring of monolithic zirconia: Effects of laser parameters on resin bond strength

This study aimed to investigate the effects of different femtosecond (fs) laser treatment protocols on the surface roughness (Ra) and shear bond strength (SBS) of resin cement to zirconia. A total of 110 zirconia specimens were divided into 11 subgroups according to the surface treatment: Control (C), airborne-particle abrasion (APA), laser irradiation applying 400 mW, 600 mW, and 800 mW of 90 fs laser pulses with 1, 5, and 10 repetitions (Fs(400/1), Fs(400/5), Fs(400/10), Fs(600/1), Fs(600/5), Fs(600/10), Fs(800/1), Fs(800/5), and Fs(800/10) ), respectively). Ra values were measured using a profilometer, and topographical changes were evaluated under a scanning electron microscope. X-ray diffraction analyses were performed to determine the crystallographic changes. Self-adhesive resin cement was bonded to zirconia specimens, and SBS tests were conducted. C and Fs(800/10) groups exhibited the lowest and the highest Ra and SBS values, respectively. Regardless of the fs laser power, application of five and 10 repetitions resulted in higher Ra values than air-abrasion. Fs(400/10), Fs(600/5), Fs(600/10), Fs(800/5), and Fs(800/10) groups showed higher SBS values than the APA group (p < .05), while SBS of other laser groups did not differ from the APA group (p > .05). Fs laser treatment protocols used in this study may be promising for zirconia-resin bonding. However, the effects of these treatments on the mechanical properties of zirconia need evaluation.

AMELIORATIONS OF MEDICINAL FRUIT EXTRACTS ON KIDNEY AGAINST FLUORIDE EXPOSURE IN MICE

This research work is the continuation of our previously published data on hepato-histopathological findings of fluoride exposure and the ameliorations by various plant fruit extracts. In the present research paper, we present histopathology patterns and the ameliorations in the kidney- the second vital body organ. Kidneys are amongst the most sensitive body organs. The study included the renal histopathological manifestations associated with exposure to 50ppm fluoride (F) (ad labitum) and the remedial potentials of vitamin E and fruit extracts of vitamin E, olive, strawberry, and pomegranate. 6 groups were made for the study, including 10 male albino mice (Mus musculus). Groups were symbolized as C (Control- no treatment), F (NaF), FE (NaF+VitaminE), FO (NaF+Olive), FP (NaF+Pomegranate) and FS (NaF+ Strawberry). All except the C group were exposed to 50 ppm F- ions (in drinking water) for 10 days, followed by the F free water for 5 days as a refractory period. During this period, 0.2mL of fruit extracts were given every 12hours to the animals NaF groups FE, FO, FP, and FS respectively via gavage. NaF group were recovered on the 16th day without any fruit extract, just with normal feed and drinking water. The kidneys of animals of all groups were dissected on the 16th day for histopathological evaluation. Results indicate modifications in renal histopathology due to fluoride exposure like the increased size of the glomerulus, lesions in the tubules, and the significant micrometric changes including increased CSA of proximal tubular area, enhanced tubular area, and tubular caliber. Ameliorative and nephro-rehabilitative effects against all such changes were observed in FE, FO, FP, and FS groups. The findings showed olive fruit pulp extract to be the most effective solution out of four medicinal fruit pulp extracts for rehabilitating the toxic manifestations of chronic exposure to the low dose of fluoride.

Association between cumulative smoking exposure, span since smoking cessation, and peri-implantitis: a cross-sectional study.

To investigate the association of cumulative smoking exposure and span since smoking cessation with the occurrence of peri-implantitis. A sample of 350 individuals aged ≥ 35years, with the presence of at least one osseointegrated implant functioning for > 5years, were enrolled in the study. According to smoking habits, participants were categorized into 3 groups: non-smokers (NS; n = 212), former smokers (FC; n = 66), and current smokers (CS; n = 72). Complete peri-implant and periodontal examinations were evaluated. Associations between the occurrence of peri-implantitis and smoking habits, as well as potential confounders, were evaluated through univariate and multivariate analyses. The occurrence of peri-implantitis in the NS, FS, and CS groups was 18.2%, 19.7%, and 30.5%, respectively. A high prevalence of the overall number of cases with periodontitis (54.2%) was observed in the CS group when compared to the FS and NS groups. After adjusting for confounders, the odds ratio (OR) for the occurrence of peri-implantitis was 2.63 (1.39-6.77; p < 0.001) for CS compared to NS. There was a significant dose-response relationship between pack/year of smoking and the occurrence of peri-implantitis, as well as a significant decrease in the risk as the years of smoking cessation increased. The occurrence of peri-implantitis among CS was high. The cumulative smoking exposure in an incremental manner and the shorter smoking cessation span was directly associated with a higher risk for peri-implantitis. Educational and preventive strategies in general health services must attempt to reduce the adverse effects of cumulative smoking exposure and to explore the beneficial effects of smoking cessation on peri-implant status.

Research of the influences of utilization of sediment and exogenous materials on the changes of SDOM and WSOC of soil

As mankind pays attention to environmental protection and reuse of resources, more and more exogenous materials are being utilized for soil improvement, such as straw, sediment, etc. However, further research is needed on the mechanism of how sediments and other exogenous materials change soil properties. In this study, the changes of soil water soluble organic carbon (WSOC) and soil dissolved organic matter (SDOM) in the process of resource utilization of sediment and other exogenous materials were investigated. Different exogenous substances such as river sediment (RS), lake sediments (LS), straw (SS), algae (AS), Myriophyllum verticillatum L. submerged plants (MS) and livestock manure (FS) were added to the soil, and fluorescence spectroscopy combined with parallel factor analysis was used to explore the characteristics of WSOC changes and SDOM sources in the treated soil. The results showed that the SDOM fluorescence intensity changes show the total fluorescence intensity of the three groups of SS, FS, and MS was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than the control group. After 50 days of culture, the content of WSOC in the 6 groups was: MS (72.2 mg/kg) > LS (58.2 mg/kg) > FS (45.6 mg/kg) > RS (44.8 mg/kg) > AS (41.4 mg/kg) > SS (39.4 mg/kg) > CK (32.7 mg/kg). the MS group increased the most, reaching a percentage of 220%. The parallel factor analysis of SDOM three-dimensional fluorescence spectra showed that SDOM in soil mainly contains three components, groups contain protein-like, humus-like and tyrosine-like amino acids. In the initial stage, protein-like substances are the main components, and after 50 days, humus-like substances become the main components of SDOM in each treated soil. Among them, the FS group has the highest humus-like content. According to the fluorescence intensity, the SS, FS and MS groups have significant effects on increasing the content of soil water-soluble organic matter, and the SS group has the strongest effect. In summary, sediment and straw, algae, Myriophyllum verticillatum L., livestock manure can change the content of SDOM and WSOC in the soil can change the content of SDOM and WSOC in the soil, enhance the degree of soil vitality, increase the vitality of the soil, and improve the structure, composition, and quality of the soil. This research provided theoretical guidance and technical support for the resource utilization of sediment, straw, algae, submerged plants and livestock manure.

Koroner Arter Bypass hastalarında Kan ve Perikardiyal Signal Peptide-CUB (complement C1r / C1s, Vegf and Bmp 1) -EGF (epidermal growth factor)-like Protein-1 (SCUBE-1) Düzeyleri ve Ventrikül Fonksiyonları Arasındaki İlişki

Background: Signal peptide-CUB (complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, and Bmp1)-EGF (epidermal growth factor)- like domain- containing protein 1(SCUBE-1) is a surface cell protein studied as a biomarker in thrombosis and ischemia conditions and secreted at currently studied early embryogenesis. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between left ventricular functions and pericardial / serum SCUBE-1 values of patients who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery. Material and Methods: Forty patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass graft surgery were included in the study. Detailed echocardiographic findings of the patients were made before the operation. Left ventricular dysfunction markers were determined according to left ventricular fracshortening. SCUBE-1 levels were studied with ELISA kits in blood plasma and pericardial fluid samples. SCUBE-1 levels were statistically compared between the determined groups. Results: Statistical differences were observed in LVDs, IVSd, Neutrophil, RBC, CK-MB, Troponin-I and WBC values in low and high FS groups (p &amp;lt;0.05). SCUBE-1 plasma levels did not differ statistically between the FS groups (p&amp;gt; 0.05). The same situation was similar for pericardial fluid levels (p&amp;gt; 0.05). Correlation was seen between SCUBE-1 plasma levels and SCUBE-1 pericardial levels (p &amp;lt;0.05). There was no significant correlation between echocardiographic findings and SCUBE-1 levels (p&amp;gt; 0.05). Conclusion: These results showed us that SCUBE-1 plasma and the pericardial fluid levels had no effect on the left ventricular dysfunction. SCUBE-1 is not one of the currently identified markers of cardiac dysfunction. Future studies will further increase our knowledge on this subject.

Identification and Effects of Skim Milk-Derived Bioactive Antihypertensive Peptides

Bioactive peptides are generated during milk fermentation or enzymatic hydrolysis. Lactobacillus (L) helveticus is commonly used to produce some types of fermented milk products. Fermented milk derived bioactive peptides are known to be beneficial in human health. Anti-hypertensive peptides play a dual role in the regulation of hypertension through the production of the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II and its inactivation of the vasodilator bradykinin. MALDI MS/MS, nano-LC/MS/MS and RP-HPLC were used to isolate peptides showing angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition (ACE-I) from 12% fermented skim milk using a combination of L. helveticus and Flavourzyme®. The fermentation procedure facilitated the identification of 133 anti-hypertensive peptides and 75% short chain amino acids, and the three with the highest ACE-I activity reduced blood pressure in a rat model of hypertension. The freeze- dried extract was supplemented in rodent chow. In this study 14-week-old male spontaneously hypertensive rats were fed for 10 weeks with the identified peptides added to chow and compared to controls supplemented with skim milk powder. Blood pressure (BP) decreased significantly (p &lt; 0.05) from 6 to 10 weeks of FS groups (120/65 mmHg) compared with the NFS control groups, where the BP increased significantly (220/150 mmHg) (p &lt; 0.05). The F6 fraction provided bioactive peptides with stronger antihypertensive properties than other fractions. Skim milk fermented by L. helveticus and Flavourzyme® generates several bioactive peptides which have a blood pressure lowering effect in hypertensive disease.

Supracommissural replacement of the ascending aorta and the aortic valve via partial versus full sternotomy-a propensity-matched comparison in a high-volume centre.

Full sternotomy (FS) is the common surgical access for patients undergoing open aortic valve replacement (AVR) with concomitant supracommissural replacement of the tubular ascending aorta. Since minimally invasive approaches are being used with increasing frequency in cardiac surgery, the aim of this study was to compare outcomes of patients undergoing AVR with supracommissural replacement of the tubular ascending aorta via FS versus partial upper sternotomy (PS). We included all patients who underwent elective AVR with concomitant supracommissural replacement of the tubular ascending aorta at our institution between 2000 and 2015. Exclusion criteria were emergency surgery, other major concomitant procedures and reoperations. After 2:1 propensity score matching, outcomes of patients with PS and FS were compared. A total of 652 consecutive patients were included, 117 patients operated via PS and 234 patients operated via FS. Cardiopulmonary bypass time and aortic cross-clamp time of the PS and FS groups were 89 vs 92 min (P = 0.2) and 65 vs 70 min (P = 0.3), respectively. Postoperative morbidity was low and there were no significant differences in postoperative outcomes between patient groups. In-hospital mortality was 1.7% in the PS vs 0.4% in the FS group (P = 0.3). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed no difference in mid-term survival (P = 0.3). Reoperation rates for valve or aortic complications were very low with no significant difference between groups. In a high-volume centre with extensive experience in minimally invasive cardiac surgery, AVR with concomitant supracommissural replacement of the tubular ascending aorta via PS results in similar outcomes with regard to safety and longevity when compared to conventional FS.

Contrasting effects of three breathing techniques on pulmonary function, functional capacity and daily life functional tasks in patients following valve replacement surgery- A pilot randomized clinical trial

BackgroundValve replacement surgeries affect the physiological mechanisms of patients leading to various postoperative pulmonary complications. Lung expansion therapy consisting of numerous techniques is routinely used for the prevention and treatment of these complications. ObjectivesOur study aimed to compare the effects of diaphragmatic breathing (DB), flow (FS) and volume-oriented incentive spirometer (VS) in patients following valve replacement surgery. Methods29 patients posted valve replacement surgeries were randomly assigned to VS, FS and DB groups. Patients underwent preoperative training and seven-day rehabilitation post-surgery. Pulmonary function tests were performed before surgery and for seven days afterward. On the seventh postoperative day, patients performed a six-minute walk test and completed a functional difficulties questionnaire (FDQ). ResultsPulmonary function test values reduced in all three groups postoperatively when compared to the preoperative values but improved by the seventh postoperative day (p < 0.05). On comparing the seventh postoperative day values to the preoperative values, the VS group had no significant difference (p = 1.00) (Forced Vital Capacity- % change: DB-37.76, VS-1.59, FS-27.98), indicating that the value had nearly returned to the baseline. As compared to the DB and FS groups, FVC showed a greater improvement in the VS group (p = 0.01 and p = 0.06 respectively). No significant differences were observed between groups for distance walked (p > 0.05), however, FDQ scores demonstrated positive changes in favor of VS when contrasted with FS or DB (p < 0.05). ConclusionDiaphragmatic breathing, flow or volume-oriented spirometer could improve pulmonary function in the postoperative period. The volume-oriented spirometer, however, was found to be the most beneficial among the three techniques in improving patients’ pulmonary function and daily life functional tasks. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings.

Tetrandrine inhibits the occurrence and development of frozen shoulder by inhibiting inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis

BackgroundFrozen shoulders (FS) is a major clinical concern, where chronic synovial inflammation, abnormal angiogenesis, and fibrosis represent the critical pathologies in the glenohumeral capsule. However, no pharmacotherapy has been introduced to treat this pathology. Tetrandrine (TET) has been proposed as a treatment for many diseases due to its strong anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic effects. PurposeTo study the anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-fibrotic effects of TET on FS, and identify whether TET can prevent the development of FS in rats. Study DesignA controlled laboratory study. MethodsForty-eight male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into control, TET, and FS groups. The TET group was intraperitoneally injected with TET every 2 days. TET and saline treatment were started on the day of FS surgery. After 8 weeks, the animals were sacrificed, and samples were collected for X-ray examination, glenohumeral range of motion (ROM) evaluation, histology and immunohistochemistry analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation, and profibrogenic factors as well as proinflammatory cytokines measurements. ResultsNo significant difference in shoulder ROM was observed between the TET and control groups, but a significant difference was noted between these groups and the FS group (P < 0.01). Immunohistochemical staining showed no abnormal angiogenesis or fibrosis in the TET group or the control group. However, significant angiogenesis, collagen remodeling, and fibrosis were observed in the FS group, and the expression and proportion of type I and type III collagen in the FS group were significantly higher than those in the TET group or the control group (P < 0.01). TEM observation showed that TET protected the ultrastructure of collagen fibrous reticular arrangement of the articular capsule and prevented the formation of scar-like fibrotic structures, which are unique to FS. The significantly increased expression of Smad7 and the suppressed expression of Smad 2 in the TET group compared with that of the FS group indicated that TET also significantly inhibited the TGF-β1 intracellular signal pathway. The expression of profibrogenic factors and proinflammatory cytokines in the TET group and the control group was significantly lower than that in the TET group (P < 0.01). ConclusionThe results demonstrated that TET protected the normal reticular structure of the capsule during the freezing period and prevented the development of FS by inhibiting inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis in a rat FS model. Clinical RelevanceTET may be a safe and effective clinical medication for preventing and treating FS.