Updated Literature Research Articles

Key Articles and Guidelines in the Management of Pericardial Syndromes

Over the past two decades, emerging literature has shaped the management of pericardial syndromes and has evolved abundantly towards the creation of European guidelines for the diagnosis and management of pericardial diseases. However, since the publication of the European guidelines in 2015, more data surrounding the management of pericardial syndromes have been published. Comprehensive reference materials with the most updated literature are warranted and can be pivotal in helping pharmacists make evidence-based and clinical decisions for patients diagnosed with pericardial syndromes. This compilation of key articles and guidelines will serve as a resource for pharmacists who are responsible for the care of patients with pericardial syndromes.

Pulmonary Delivery for miRs: Present and Future Potential

Administration through the respiratory tract can be advantageous, with high drug bioavailability, limited enzymatic activity, reduced dose requirements compared to oral, and potentially diminished side effects. Among the different types of drugs studied for pulmonary delivery, genetic material delivery has gained favorable scientific interest, using polymer-, lipid-, inorganic-, or vector-based nanocarriers. As pulmonary drug delivery has been associated with challenges, including physiological barriers and lung metabolism, the delivery of sensitive molecules such as nucleic acids can exacerbate these challenges. While short-interfering RNAs (siRNAs) have been extensively reported as suitable ribonucleic acid interference (RNAi) candidates for pulmonary delivery, discussion on micro-RNA (miR) pulmonary delivery is limited despite their significant therapeutic potential. Recently, these non-coding RNAs have been explored in targeted or non-targeted pulmonary administration against various diseases. This review addresses the information gap on miR-pulmonary delivery with updated and concentrated literature. We briefly discuss the barriers to lung administration, describe different functional nanocarriers for miR delivery, and provide an extensive literature update on the different miRs and their targeted diseases currently being studied.

Oroantral communications: a literature review and update

Introduction: the Oroantral Communication (OAC) is the space that is created between the maxillary sinus and the oral cavity, which if not treated will progress to an Oroantral Fistula (OAF) or chronic sinus disease. The most common predisposing factor for a COA is the extraction of the upper posterior teeth (usually the first or second molars). The aim of this study was to carry out a literature review with emphasis on clinical implications and treatment alternatives of a COA through an update and review of information of interest. Methods: a literature review was carried out through a collection and analysis of bibliography of oroantral communications and the comparison and treatment alternatives. Discussion: various techniques have been proposed for the management of an AOC, among which are local flaps, as well as the use of biomaterials, which have given favorable results in closing the defect. Conclusion: the treatment of an AOC has as purpose to prevent its progression to an AFO, the development of sinusitis and/or that the defect increases; To do this, the clinician must be familiar with the various techniques based on the patient's needs.

Comparing Migraine Headache Index versus Monthly Migraine Days after Headache Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Nerve deactivation surgery for the treatment of migraine has evolved rapidly over the past 2 decades. Studies typically report changes in migraine frequency (attacks/month), attack duration, attack intensity, and their composite score-the Migraine Headache Index-as primary outcomes. However, the neurology literature predominantly reports migraine prophylaxis outcomes as change in monthly migraine days (MMD). The goal of this study was to foster common communication between plastic surgeons and neurologists by assessing the effect of nerve deactivation surgery on MMD and motivating future studies to include MMD in their reported outcomes. An updated literature search was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Scopus, and Embase were systematically searched for relevant articles. Data were extracted and analyzed from studies that met the inclusion criteria. A total of 19 studies were included. There was a significant overall reduction in MMDs [mean difference (MD), 14.11; 95% CI, 10.95 to 17.27; I 2 = 92%], total migraine attacks per month (MD, 8.65; 95% CI, 7.84 to 9.46; I 2 = 90%), Migraine Headache Index (MD, 76.59; 95% CI, 60.85 to 92.32; I 2 = 98%), migraine attack intensity (MD, 3.84; 95% CI, 3.35 to 4.33; I 2 = 98%), and migraine attack duration (MD, 11.80; 95% CI, 6.44 to 17.16; I 2 = 99%) at follow-up (range, 6 to 38 months). This study demonstrates the efficacy of nerve deactivation surgery on the outcomes used in both the plastic and reconstructive surgery and neurology literature.

Robotic navigation during spine surgery: an update of literature

ABSTRACT Introduction The application of robotic navigation during spine surgery has advanced rapidly over the past two decades, especially in the last 5 years. Robotic systems in spine surgery may offer potential advantages for both patients and surgeons. This article serves as an update to our previous review and explores the current status of spine surgery robots in clinical settings. Areas covered We evaluated the literature published from 2020 to 2022 on the outcomes of robotics-assisted spine surgery, including accuracy and its influencing factors, radiation exposure, and follow-up results. Expert opinion The application of robotics in spine surgery has driven spine surgery into a new era of precision treatment through a form of artificial intelligence assistance that compensates for the limitations of human abilities. Modularized robot configurations, intelligent alignment and planning incorporating multimodal images, efficient and simple human – machine interaction, accurate surgical status monitoring, and safe control strategies are the main technical features for the development of orthopedic surgical robots. The use of robotics-assisted decompression, osteotomies, and decision-making warrants further study. Future investigations should focus on patients’ needs while continuing to explore in-depth medical – industrial collaborative development innovations that improve the overall utilization of artificial intelligence and sophistication in disease treatment.

Geospatial Distribution Pattern of Xanthostemon F. Muell. Species (Iron Wood) in the Philippines Based on Updated Literature and Internet Digital Checklist Platforms

Unsustainable harvesting, land conversion, and mining activities have raised conservation concerns about the remaining stands of vulnerable to critically endangered Philippine Xanthostemon in its natural habitat and with restricted distribution. Mapping the current distribution is essential in developing conservation strategies and protecting these threatened species. This paper generated the distribution patterns of Xanthostemon in the Philippine islands by data mining from published and digital checklist platforms and translated them into distribution maps using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS). The data comprised 20 reported provincial occurrences of Xanthostemon species in the Philippines. Three endemic Xanthostemon species are widely distributed in selected provinces, and two have a restricted distribution pattern, making them more vulnerable to threats. Additional distribution of a possible introduced species, X. chrysanthus was reported in Agusan del Norte. The morphological description of the six Xanthostemon species reported was described based on the available data. The provinces of Leyte, Samar, Agusan del Norte, and Surigao del Sur obtained the highest number, having three species per province based on the number of reported occurrences. As per the island scale, Mindanao has the highest number of occurrences having ten provinces with four and one unidentified Xanthostemon species, naming it as the center of Xanthostemon in the country. Areas rich in heavy metals are a growing preference for ironwood and have been exploited for mining, which has been concluded for the threatened conservation status. The generated distribution map will significantly benefit from addressing intervention between local agencies and different sectors regarding the conservation and management of the natural population of Xanthostemon, especially in mining exploited areas, and could also serve as insight for further research into the collection of ironwoods for morphological, taxonomic, ecological, and molecular studies.

An updated literature review of CO2e calculation in road freight transportation

An updated literature review of CO2e calculation in road freight transportation

Perioperative therapy landscape for locally advanced, resectable esophageal cancer: an updated literature review.

The poor oncologic outcomes associated with esophageal cancer (EC) are primarily due to its presentation at an advanced stage and patient comorbidities. While multimodal therapy improves overall outcomes, there is a lack of uniform practice in terms of perioperative management, partly because this is a rapidly evolving field in a heterogeneous patient population. With numerous recent studies incorporating precision medicine with radiographic, pathologic, and genomic biomarkers and with emerging trials using targeted therapies, it is necessary for providers who care for these patients to be familiar with the current and evolving treatment standards to optimize patient outcomes. The objective of this paper is to perform an updated review of the main historical and recently emerging studies that impact the perioperative management of patients with locally advanced, upfront-resectable EC. We mined and reviewed PubMed and American Society of Clinical Oncology databases for pivotal works shaping the current perioperative treatment landscape in locally advanced EC. EC are a vastly heterogeneous disease, and treatment options vary based on tumor anatomic location, histology, and patient comorbidities. Perioperative chemotherapy (CTX), chemoradiation (CRT), and, recently, immunotherapy have improved survival in patients with locally advanced disease. However, optimizing sequencing, de-escalating therapy, and incorporating novel targeted therapies in the perioperative setting are promising strategies that are under ongoing investigation to improve patient outcomes further. There is an ongoing need to identify predictive biomarkers and novel treatment strategies to personalize perioperative approaches and optimize outcomes of patients with EC.

Coronary Stent Infection Complicated by Persistent Methicillin-Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia Myocardial Abscess and Pericardial Effusion

A 52-year-old man presented with coronary stent infection complicated by persistent methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, myocardial abscess, and pericardial effusion treated successfully with medical management. We presented an updated literature review of diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of coronary stent infections. We recommend that providers have a high index of suspicion in patients with fevers, leukocytosis, bacteremia, and/or new acute coronary syndrome within 30 days of coronary stent placement. Multimethod imaging, including echocardiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and cardiac positron emission tomography, can assist in diagnosis. Although early-onset infection may be effectively treated with medical therapy alone, late-onset infections appear to benefit from antimicrobials and surgical intervention.

HTA100 What Is a Good or Bad Number Needed to Treat (NNT)? A 2022 Updated Literature Review

HTA100 What Is a Good or Bad Number Needed to Treat (NNT)? A 2022 Updated Literature Review

Biomarkers of aging through the life course: A Recent Literature Update.

The development of biomarkers of aging has greatly advanced epidemiological studies of aging processes. However, much debate remains on the timing of aging onset and the causal relevance of these biomarkers. In this review, we discuss the most recent biomarkers of aging that have been applied across the life course. The most recently developed aging biomarkers that have been applied across the life course can be designated into three categories: epigenetic clocks, epigenetic markers of chronic inflammation, and mitochondrial DNA copy number. While these have been applied at different life stages, the development, validation, and application of these markers has been largely centered on populations of older adults. Few studies have examined trajectories of aging biomarkers across the life course. As the wealth of molecular and biochemical data increases, emerging biomarkers may be able to capture complex and system-specific aging processes. Recently developed biomarkers include novel epigenetic clocks; clocks based on ribosomal DNA, transcriptomic profiles, proteomics, metabolomics, and inflammatory markers; clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential gene mutations; and multi-omics approaches. Attention should be placed on aging at early and middle life stages to better understand trajectories of aging biomarkers across the life course. Additionally, novel biomarkers will provide greater insight into aging processes. The specific mechanisms of aging reflected by these biomarkers should be considered when interpreting results.

Reasons and Resolutions for Inconsistent Variant Interpretation

In the postgenomic era, variant interpretation is crucial for diagnosing monogenic diseases, which is the premise of precision medicine. The bottleneck and difficulty of genetic disease diagnosis have switched from the inaccessibility of detection technology to the interpretation of sequencing results. Multiple studies have suggested that the inconsistency rate of interlaboratory variant interpretation is approximately 10~40%. However, many clinicians have not paid enough attention to this area at present. In this review, we summarized the reasons for inconsistency, including classification methodology, information obtained by the interpreter, evidence application, and expert judgement. For clinicians, genetic counsellors, and molecular pathologists, it is necessary to reevaluate genetic reports, especially those supported by old literature and databases in clinical practice. For unresolvable cases, pedigree analysis, collaboration with research labs for functional experiments, and long-term follow-up to combine advanced clinical presentations with updated data and literature are needed.

(455) The Modern Eunuch: A Historical Review of Voluntary Castration and Modern Perspective On the Practice

Abstract Introduction Voluntary castration in men has existed for several centuries with popularity in many different cultures. The practice is still prevalent today in the Western world with varying reasoning for why men still seek the identity of a Eunuch. Objective We aim to explore the natural history of voluntary castration including examination of its presence in different cultures, associated societal roles, and the methodology and historical reasoning behind the practice. We also examine roles and reasoning in contemporary society with investigation of how and by who this service is provided. Methods We reviewed both historical literature of voluntary castration as well as more updated literature including recent questionnaires, surveys, and internet forums regarding the practice. Results Eunuchs have occupied many important historical roles in many different societies and the practice of voluntary castration has continued to be prevalent to this day. There are many different inspirations as to why modern Eunuchs continue this practice. We explore the written evidence of these roles while also focusing on contemporary voluntary castration, what roles Eunuchs fulfill or desire in modern society, and motivations for doing so. Conclusions In this historical review, we explore written evidence of the roles Eunuchs traditionally held in historical societies while also focusing on contemporary inspirations for the practice, which continues to be a prevalent interest among some men. Disclosure No

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator for primary prevention in patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy in the era of novel therapeutic agents- meta-analysis.

Evidence regarding the mortality benefit of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM) is inconsistent. The most recent randomized study, the DANISH trial, did not find improved outcomes with ICD. However, based on previous studies and meta-analyses, current guidelines still highly recommend ICD implantation in NIDCM patients. The introduction of novel medications for heart failure improved the clinical outcome dramatically. We aimed in this study to evaluate the effect of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitors (ARNi) and sodium-glucose transport protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on the mortality benefit of ICD in NIDCM. We used a previous metanalysis algorithm and added an updated comprehensive literature search in PubMed for randomized control trials that examined the mortality benefit of ICD in NIDCM vs. optimal medical treatment. The primary outcome included death from any cause. We did a meta-regression analysis to search for a single independent factor affecting mortality. Using previous data, we evaluated the theoretical effect of ICD implementation on patients treated with SGLT2 inhibitors and ARNi. No new articles were added to the results of the previous meta-analysis. 2,622 patients with NIDCM from 5 cohort studies published between 2002 and 2016 were included in the analysis. 50% of them underwent ICD implantation for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death, and 50% did not. ICD was associated with a significantly decreased risk for death from any cause compared to control (OR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.66-0.95, p = 0.01, I2 = 0%). The theoretical addition of ARNi and the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin did not change the significant mortality effect of ICD (OR = 0.82, 95%CI: 0.7-0.9, p = 0.001, I2 = 0%) and (OR = 0.82, 95%CI: 0.7-0.9, p = 0.001, I2 = 0%). A meta-regression revealed no association between death from any cause and left bundle branch block (LBBB), use of amiodarone, use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blockers, year initiated enrollment, and the year ended enrollment (R2 = 0.0). In patients with NIDCM, the addition of ARNi and SGLT2i did not affect the mortality advantages of ICD for primary prevention. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42023403210.

BIOACTIVE PEPTIDES IN RED MEATS, BYPRODUCTS AND RESIDUES FROM THE MEAT INDUSTRY

O Objective: To provide a comprehensive overview of the generation of bioactive peptides from raw red meat, its by-products, and the waste meat cuts, as well as the bioactive health effects. Design/methodology/approach: A literature search was conducted through the organization and systematized analysis of information for an updated literature review of bioactive peptides in red meat. Results: Meat is a food of great nutritional value for human beings, since the digestibility of its protein stands out. In addition to the nutritional value of this protein, there are some studies in meat where bioactive peptides provide bioactivity mainly as an antihypertensive and antioxidant. Bioactive peptides are generally obtained by enzymatic hydrolysis and through microbial fermentation processes. Subsequently, they are identified by analytical techniques to perform in vitro and in vivo evaluations verifying the bioactivity of the peptides obtained. Limitations on study/implications: The food industry must establish the most reliable methods for generating more reliable peptides to standardize their production and avoid process variability. Findings/conclusions: The bioactive activity to be exerted by the peptides will depend on factors specific to the protein, such as the number of amino acids it contains, the hydrophilic or hydrophobic profile, and size, among others. This information is key to predict the activity the peptide can exert in the human body since many can have multiple activities, the most common being the antioxidant-antihypertensive function.

Prevalence and Impact of Gastrointestinal Manifestations in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review.

The aim of this study is to systematically analyze and summarize the implications of COVID-19 on the digestive system by quantitatively evaluating the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, anorexia. reported in COVID-19 cases. We simultaneously investigated other variables to determine the association of such symptoms in COVID-19 patients which can potentially influence the disease prognosis and outcome. This systematic review presents an updated literature on the issue as it requires more scientific discussion in order to better inform the medical community and authorities so that appropriate measures can be taken to control the virus outbreak. MEDLINE database was searched to identify relevant articles. Data was analyzed and synthesized from the 16 eligible studies which exclusively reported GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients along with the disease prognosis. A meta-analysis of studies having adequate information regarding the prevalence of specific GI symptoms in association with other relevant independent variables was performed. From the search strategy, we identified 16 articles which fit our eligibility criteria comprising of 10 cross-sectional studies, 2 cohort study, 1 RCT and 3 observational studies. From these pooled studies, 6 articles exclusively talked about COVID-19 patients in which GI symptoms were reported and adequately discussed. In a total of 3646 patients, GI symptoms were documented in (16.2%-10.1%) patients. The most prevalent GI symptom was diarrhea (47%) but the most common clinical manifestation reported was fever (77.4%). Among the adult patients, hypertension (11.6%) was the most frequently reported comorbidity. Presence of viral RNA in stool sample was noted in 16.7% patients with GI symptom. In patients who complained of having GI symptoms, an abnormal liver function was largely observed, with an elevated ALT level in (10.9%) and an elevated AST in (8.8%) of the patients. Evidence of vertical transmission (14.2%) was reported in one study which highlights the extent and mode of viral transmission. It was observed that a great majority of the patients in the 6 studies reporting specifically on patients with GI symptoms were on antiviral therapy (68.6%) as the standard disease management protocol but the eventual disease outcome as in this case died (8.4%), discharged (45.6%) was not linked to just one therapeutic factor but other indicators of disease severity such as positive chest CT findings (87.82%) have led to a poor disease prognosis which was noted in (28.9%) severe patients with GI symptoms compared to (71.1%) non-severe COVID-19 patients with GI symptom. Presence of GI symptoms in COVID-19 patients has shown to have a positive association with the poor disease prognosis likely as a result of direct viral toxicity. It is important for the physicians to recognize digestive symptoms as an important characteristic in COVID-19 patients. Hence, precise and targeted documentation of GI symptoms and viral stool sample investigations should be performed in order to understand the rapidly evolving disease symptomology.

Current status of Hoshin Kanri

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to provide an introduction into Hoshin Kanri and how it has been used with other methodologies and frameworks. Additionally, factors that impact successful Hoshin Kanri implementation and future research opportunities are explored.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review was conducted to determine the methodologies and frameworks that have previously been explored and identify factors that lead to successful Hoshin Kanri implementation as it relates in the Western world.FindingsEven though Hoshin Kanri has been used to a limited extent for decades in the West, there is still relatively little published research on the topic. In the period reviewed most published research was performed in the UK or USA. In addition, most years had less than two publications (the exception being five in 2020).Research limitations/implicationsThis literature review was primarily focused on the manufacturing sector, publications from 1990–2021, and available in English.Practical implicationsCurrent practitioners may use the research in this review to improve their current Hoshin Kanri practices using the techniques mentioned as a means of continuous improvement or to build a new framework for their own needs.Originality/valueThis paper makes an important contribution to the study of Hoshin Kanri as it provides: (1) an updated literature review regarding the study and application of Hoshin Kanri, (2) a qualitative analysis of alternative methodologies and frameworks to traditional Hoshin Kanri and (3) success factors when considering implementation of Hoshin Kanri within an organization and researchers with potential ideas for future research.

Treating SUNCT with Radiosurgery: a Case Report and Updated Literature Review

Treating SUNCT with Radiosurgery: a Case Report and Updated Literature Review

Building the Evidence Base to Update the Key Public Health Considerations for Mass Gatherings Evaluation and Legacy

Introduction:Leaving a viable public health legacy and sustainable improvements in health infrastructure and capacity should be key for mass gatherings (MGs). Legacy includes improvements in health systems, health behaviors and delivering future MGs. Legacy planning and evaluation should be considered early in planning however, they are often neglected due to lack of funding to support, embed learning and maintain a sustainable legacy, and often favored over the event running smoothly.Building on the Public Health for Mass Gatherings: Key Considerations (KC2) (2015), an updated literature review will identify new evidence for evaluating MGs and their legacy. This review will inform the development of updated resources to reflect the changing global health landscape and learning from MGs hosted during COVID-19, which can inform ways of better embedding legacy and evaluation in planning and post-event.Method:A systematic literature review methodology will be used. Electronic databases will be searched for relevant publications and grey literature of a wide range of MGs globally, focusing on evaluations, MG legacies, and impacts. Searches for specific technical areas e.g., surveillance, will also take place.Results:The literature review undertaken to develop the KC2 chapter identified limited publications. The increased interest in this field, should lead to an improved evidence base while recognizing evidence for long-term evaluation and legacy impact may still be more restricted due to the challenges of undertaking these studies. Recent literature will likely reflect work undertaken to deliver MGs during COVID-19, which will be included to identify good practice and transferable learning.Conclusion:Key findings of the review will be published, and the evidence base will be used to update the evaluation and legacy chapter of the KC2. There are also plans to develop a MG evaluation and legacy tool that will be applicable beyond the major high-profile funded events.

Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Salivary Glands: A Ten-Year Review and an Assessment of the Current Management, Surgery, Radiotherapy, and Chemotherapy.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer that arises from the salivary glands and other sites in the body, such as the lung and breast. Although the tumor accounts for 10% of all salivary gland malignancies, it only accounts for 1% of head and neck malignancies. It can affect both major and minor salivary glands; here, it is called salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma or SACC, with a slight predilection to the latter, and commonly manifests between the 6th and 7th decades of life. The disease also shows a slight female predilection, with a reported female to male ratio of 3 : 2. Lesions of SACC are often insidious and slow-growing, and symptoms such as pain and altered sensation are frequently associated with advanced stages of the disease. Salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma is characterized by perineural invasion (PNI), a distinctive feature that potentially plays a significant role in the tumor's relapse and recurrence, which is approximately 50%. The disease is not prevalent, and its etiopathogenesis is poorly understood, although several genetic patterns and biomarkers have been linked to its initiation and/or progression. The discovery of these mutations and biomarkers has encouraged several clinical studies to use therapeutic agents to target the specific receptors on the cancer cells to potentially prevent further proliferation of the tumor cells and metastasis of the disease. Diagnosis of SACC is often challenging and frequently requires a combination of clinical examination, imaging, and histopathology. Management of SACC is primarily surgical excision, while radiotherapy has shown to be effective in improving local control in cases with microscopic residual disease. However, treatment of recurrent or metastatic tumors by radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy has so far shown limited success. The aim of this thesis is to provide an update of literature on SACC with a particular focus on the latest management approaches and future trends.