Peroral endoscopic myotomy for complex achalasia and the POEM difficulty score: An update.

Objectives: We present an update on the (peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) difficulty score [PDS] by introducing a novel knife with waterjet functionality.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of patients who underwent POEM between May 2018 and July 2023 at the Kingston Health Sciences Center. Demographic and procedural variables were compared using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Accuracy of Intraocular Lens Power Calculation Based on Distance from Haptic to Principal Object Plane.

Purpose: To investigate the impact of the distance from the most-anterior surface of the optic to the principal object plane (POP) and from the foremost haptic to the principal object plane (H-POP) on the intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation.

Setting: A tertiary hospital.

Design: Optical simulation and retrospective cross-sectional study.

Instructional design features in ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia simulation-based training: a systematic review.

Introduction: Ultrasound-guided regional anaesthesia enhances pain control, patient outcomes and lowers healthcare costs. However, teaching this skill effectively presents challenges with current training methods. Simulation-based medical education offers advantages over traditional methods.

Comparison of Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Systems and Surface-Coated Microspheres: Improving Oral Bioavailability of Niclosamide.

Purpose: This study aimed to develop a solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) and surface-coated microspheres to improve the oral bioavailability of niclosamide.

Methods: A solubility screening study showed that liquid SNEDDS, prepared using an optimized volume ratio of corn oil, Cremophor RH40, and Tween 80 (20:24:56), formed nanoemulsions with the smallest droplet size. Niclosamide was incorporated into this liquid SNEDDS and spray-dried with calcium silicate to produce solid SNEDDS.

Identification and development of TRPM4 antagonists to counteract neuronal excitotoxicity.

Neurodegeneration in central nervous system disorders is linked to dysregulated neuronal calcium. Direct inhibition of glutamate-induced neuronal calcium influx, particularly via N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDAR), has led to adverse effects and clinical trial failures. A more feasible approach is to modulate NMDAR activity or calcium signaling indirectly.