Human nails have recently become a sample of interest for toxicological purposes. Multiple studies have proven the ability to detect various analytes within the keratin matrix of the nail. The analyte of interest in this study is fentanyl, a highly dangerous and abused drug in recent decades. In this proof-of-concept study, ATR-FTIR was combined with machine learning methods, which are effective in detecting and differentiating fentanyl in samples, to explore whether nail samples are distinguishable from individuals who have used fentanyl and those who have not. PLS-DA and SVM-DA prediction models were created for this study and had an overall accuracy rate of 84.8% and 81.4%, respectively. Notably, when classification was considered at the donor level-i.e., determining whether the donor of the nail sample was using fentanyl-all donors were correctly classified. These results show that ATR-FTIR spectroscopy in combination with machine learning can effectively differentiate donors who have used fentanyl and those who have not and that human nails are a viable sample matrix for toxicology.

• Klíčová slova
• ATR–FTIR, PLS-DA, SVM-DA, fentanyl, fingernails, machine learning, toenails,
• MeSH
• fentanyl * analýza   MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty * chemie   MeSH
• spektroskopie infračervená s Fourierovou transformací metody   MeSH
• strojové učení * MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• Názvy látek
• fentanyl * MeSH

A person's age estimation from biological evidence is a crucial aspect of forensic investigations, aiding in victim identification and criminal profiling. In this study, we present a novel approach of utilizing Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy to predict the age of donors based on nail samples. A diverse dataset comprising nails from donors spanning different age groups was analyzed using ATR FT-IR, with subsequent multivariate analysis techniques used for age prediction. The developed partial least squares regression (PLS-R) model demonstrated promising accuracy in age estimation, with a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) equal to 11.1 during external validation. Additionally, a partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) classification model achieved high accuracy of 88% in classifying donors into younger and older age groups during external validation. This proof-of-concept study highlights the potential of ATR FT-IR spectroscopy as a non-destructive and efficient tool for age estimation in forensic investigations, offering a new approach to forensic analysis with practical implications.

• Klíčová slova
• ATR FT‐IR, PLS‐DA, PLS‐R, age, chemometrics, nails,
• MeSH
• diskriminační analýza MeSH
• dítě MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• metoda nejmenších čtverců MeSH
• mladiství MeSH
• mladý dospělý MeSH
• nehty * chemie   MeSH
• ověření koncepční studie MeSH
• senioři nad 80 let MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• soudní vědy metody   MeSH
• spektroskopie infračervená s Fourierovou transformací MeSH
• stárnutí MeSH
• Check Tag
• dítě MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mladiství MeSH
• mladý dospělý MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• senioři nad 80 let MeSH
• senioři MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the potential of compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AA) for investigating infant feeding practices, we conducted a long-term study that compared infant and maternal amino acid (AA) nitrogen isotope ratios. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fingernail samples were collected from a single mother-infant dyad over 19 months postpartum. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios were measured in the bulk keratin of the fingernail samples. Selected samples were then hydrolyzed and derivatized for compound-specific nitrogen isotope analysis of keratin AAs. RESULTS: As in previous studies, infant bulk keratin nitrogen isotope values increased during exclusive breastfeeding and fell with the introduction of complementary foods and eventual cessation of breastfeeding. Infant trophic AAs had elevated nitrogen isotope values relative to the mother, while the source AAs were similar between the mother and infant. Proline and threonine appeared to track the presence of human milk in the infant's diet as the isotopic composition of these AAs remained offset from maternal isotope values until the cessation of breastfeeding. DISCUSSION: Although CSIA-AA is costly and labor intensive, it appears to hold potential for estimating the duration of breastfeeding, even after the introduction of complementary foods. Through the analysis of a full suite of AAs, it may also yield insights into infant physiology and AA synthesis.

• Klíčová slova
• amino acids, breastfeeding, fingernails, nitrogen, weaning,
• MeSH
• aminokyseliny * analýza   metabolismus   MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• izotopy dusíku * analýza   MeSH
• izotopy uhlíku * analýza   MeSH
• keratiny * chemie   MeSH
• kojenec MeSH
• kojení * MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mateřské mléko chemie   metabolismus   MeSH
• nehty * chemie   metabolismus   MeSH
• novorozenec MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• kojenec MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• novorozenec MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• Názvy látek
• aminokyseliny * MeSH
• izotopy dusíku * MeSH
• izotopy uhlíku * MeSH
• keratiny * MeSH

Nail bed reconstruction is crucial after fingertip trauma, impacting both function and aesthetics. In this article, the authors describe a case of partial distal phalanx amputation of the index finger with laceration of the nail bed's remaining part. A traumatically elevated skin-fat flap covered the exposed bone on the fingertip, preserving finger length and sensitivity on the radial side. A full-thickness skin graft from the forearm closed a secondary defect on the finger pulp. Nail bed suturing prevented scarring and nail deformity, and a temporary artificial plastic nail replacement maintained the nail bed's shape. Temporary artificial nail replacements protect the regenerating fingertip bed, promote healing, and prevent nail deformities. Proper adaptation of lacerated nail bed edges, supported by either the patient's own nail or a temporary artificial nail, is crucial for optimal fingertip restoration, including proper nail shape.

• Klíčová slova
• Fingers, Nails, amputation, hand injuries, skin transplantation, surgery, trauma,
• MeSH
• chirurgické laloky MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty * zranění   chirurgie   MeSH
• poranění prstů ruky * chirurgie   MeSH
• traumatická amputace * chirurgie   MeSH
• zákroky plastické chirurgie * metody   MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• kazuistiky MeSH

This study reports on the successful use of a machine learning approach using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy for the classification and prediction of a donor's sex from the fingernails of 63 individuals. A significant advantage of ATR FT-IR is its ability to provide a specific spectral signature for different samples based on their biochemical composition. The infrared spectrum reveals unique vibrational features of a sample based on the different absorption frequencies of the individual functional groups. This technique is fast, simple, non-destructive, and requires only small quantities of measured material with minimal-to-no sample preparation. However, advanced multivariate techniques are needed to elucidate multiplex spectral information and the small differences caused by donor characteristics. We developed an analytical method using ATR FT-IR spectroscopy advanced with machine learning (ML) based on 63 donors' fingernails (37 males, 26 females). The PLS-DA and ANN models were established, and their generalization abilities were compared. Here, the PLS scores from the PLS-DA model were used for an artificial neural network (ANN) to create a classification model. The proposed ANN model showed a greater potential for predictions, and it was validated against an independent dataset, which resulted in 92% correctly classified spectra. The results of the study are quite impressive, with 100% accuracy achieved in correctly classifying donors as either male or female at the donor level. Here, we underscore the potential of ML algorithms to leverage the selectivity of ATR FT-IR spectroscopy and produce predictions along with information about the level of certainty in a scientifically defensible manner. This proof-of-concept study demonstrates the value of ATR FT-IR spectroscopy as a forensic tool to discriminate between male and female donors, which is significant for forensic applications.

• Klíčová slova
• ATR FT-IR spectroscopy, artificial neural network (ANN), female, machine learning, male, partial least-square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA),
• MeSH
• algoritmy * MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty * MeSH
• neuronové sítě MeSH
• odběr biologického vzorku MeSH
• spektroskopie infračervená s Fourierovou transformací metody   MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY In this study we aimed to investigate the clinical and radiographic results of AO/OTA 31 A3 fractures operated on with either a proximal femoral lateral locking plate or short cephalomedullary nails. MATERIAL AND METHODS/RESULTS Medical data of patients treated with either implant were evaluated retrospectively. Patients > 55 years old sustaining an AO 31 A3 type fracture with a minimum follow-up of one year from two institutions were included in the study. RESULTS In all, 22 patients in the plate group and 30 patients in the nail group were included. All patients achieved union excluding the patients with failure. No significant differences in the mean duration of surgery, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin levels, duration of union time, or need for an open reduction or revision surgery were observed between the two groups. Reduction quality was better in the nail group. Failure of fixation was detected in three patients in the plate group and in four patients in the nail group. The duration of hospital stay was longer in the plate group than the nail group (p = 0.007). Time to independent mobilization was significantly shorter in the nail group than the plate group (p = 0.027). The Harris hip score results were similar between the groups after one year (p = 0.479). CONCLUSIONS Both implants had similar radiographic and clinical outcomes treat 31 A3 intertrochanteric fractures if the lateral wall of the proximal fragment was intact and anatomical medial-posteromedial restoration of the fracture is performed. Although complication rates were similar between the two groups, nails enabled early mobilization of patients. Key words: intertrochanteric, 31 A3 fracture, fixation, PFLP, nail.

• MeSH
• fraktury femuru * diagnostické zobrazování   chirurgie   MeSH
• fraktury kyčle * diagnostické zobrazování   chirurgie   MeSH
• intramedulární fixace fraktury * škodlivé účinky   MeSH
• kostní hřeby MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty MeSH
• retrospektivní studie MeSH
• výsledek terapie MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH

• MeSH
• akutní myeloidní leukemie * genetika   terapie   MeSH
• DNA MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty MeSH
• polymerázová řetězová reakce MeSH
• transplantace hematopoetických kmenových buněk * MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• práce podpořená grantem MeSH
• Názvy látek
• DNA MeSH

Toenail onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes is a significant medical and financial worldwide burden. Relatively scant research has been undertaken as to the predominant species and strains causing this condition in Australia, which is a unique isolated continent with diverse geographical, climatic and population regions. Four regions were selected in Eastern Australia: Far North Queensland, Rural Victoria, Melbourne Metropolitan and Tasmania. From each of these areas, communal nail dust bags from podiatric physicians' work were collected and analysed. A total of 32 dust bags were collected: 10 from Far North Queensland, 8 from Melbourne Metropolitan, 8 from Rural Victoria and 6 from Tasmania. Dermatophyte test medium was used to isolate dermatophytes from the dust, and the colonies were subcultured to Potato Dextrose Agar. Of the bags collected, in total 69% were positive for dermatophytes: 40% from Far North Queensland, 75% from Melbourne Metropolitan, 88% from Rural Victoria and 83% from Tasmania. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of ribosomal DNA was used to identify and compare isolates. A total of 148 dermatophyte strains were identified. The predominant species isolated was Trichophyton interdigitale (125 isolates), which was found in all four regions. This species was further subdivided into four ITS genotypes: the first two were present in all regions, but the third was found only in the Melbourne Metropolitan area and the fourth only in Tasmania. Only one strain of Trichophyton rubrum was found and only in Rural Victoria. Eighteen isolates of Arthroderma quadrifidum were cultured from Rural Victoria and Tasmania and were further classified into three ITS genotypes. Some isolates rarely reported in clinical material were identified as Paraphyton cookei, Arthroderma tuberculatum and Arthroderma crocatum. A potentially new species of Arthroderma was also found in Melbourne Metropolitan. These findings reveal a unique dermatophyte fingerprint in toenails for Eastern Australia.

• Klíčová slova
• Arthroderma, Dermatophyte, Geophilic dermatophytes, Nail dust, Onychomycosis, Trichophyton,
• MeSH
• genotyp MeSH
• intergenová DNA genetika   MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nehty mikrobiologie   MeSH
• onychomykóza mikrobiologie   MeSH
• Trichophyton genetika   patogenita   MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• Geografické názvy
• Austrálie MeSH
• Názvy látek
• intergenová DNA MeSH

INTRODUCTION: Glomus tumor is a rare and benign vascular tumor. Although symptoms specific for this tumor are quite clear, there is still a delay between the onset of symptoms, diagnosis and subsequent surgical therapy. The authors monitor the time from the onset of symptoms to the diagnosis and management of the problems. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Between 2004-2012, a total of 5 patients were diagnosed with subungual glomus tumor in the area of the distal phalanges of the hand. It involved 3 women and 2 men with the mean age of 32.2 years (26-47 years). During the first examination, we monitored the duration of symptoms, number and specialty of the doctors who examined the patient, and what examinations were performed. When the cold test was positive, MRI was performed and the patients were indicated for surgical revision. Tissue samples in all patients were histologically examined. Patients were followed for 2 years. RESULTS: It was found that the patients had clinical symptoms for an average of 2.4 years. In our group, the patients were examined by an average of 5.4 physicians (3-9 physicians). On examination before surgery, three patients reported changes in the nail bed and two patients reported no change. When following the patients 2 years after the surgery, relapse occurred in one patient and it was treated with reoperation. During regular follow-up 2 years after the surgery, 4 patients were without nail deformity. In one patient, there was resulting nail deformity. Relapse occurred in only one case. DISCUSSION: Because the glomus tumor is a rare lesion, occurring most frequently in the nail bed, early diagnosis is still a problem. Even in literature, we encounter a similar time frame from the onset of symptoms until the final diagnosis of 1.9 to 8 years. CONCLUSION: Although clinical signs and problems concerning the glomus tumor are very obvious, there still remains a long time for diagnosis. It would certainly be most beneficial for patients with persistent symptoms not to be referred to different specialists, but directly to a department that specializes in hand surgery.

• Klíčová slova
• Glomus tumor, hand tumor diagnosis., tumor of the hand,
• MeSH
• dospělí MeSH
• glomangiom * diagnóza   MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• nádory kůže * diagnóza   MeSH
• nehty patologie   MeSH
• nemoci nehtů * diagnóza   MeSH
• Check Tag
• dospělí MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• ženské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• kazuistiky MeSH

Trichophyton onychocola is a recently described geophilic dermatophyte that has been isolated from a toenail of Czech patient with a history of onychomycosis due to T. rubrum and clinical suspicion of relapse. In this study, we report a similar case from Denmark in an otherwise healthy 56-year-old man. The patient had a history of great toenail infection caused by T. rubrum in 2004 and presented with suspected relapse in 2011 and 2013. Trichophyton onychocola was the only microbial agent isolated at the second visit in 2013 and the identification was confirmed by DNA sequencing. Direct microscopic nail examination was positive for hyphae, however the etiological significance of T. onychocola was not supported by repeated isolation of the fungus. This new species may be an overlooked geophilic species due to the resemblance to some common species, for example, zoophilic T. interdigitale or some species of geophilic dermatophytes. We included differential diagnosis with phenotypically similar species; however, it is recommended that molecular methods are used for correct identification. The MAT locus of Danish strain was of opposite mating type than in the previously isolated Czech strain and the two isolates were successfully mated. The mating experiments with related heterothallic species T. thuringiense and Arthroderma melis were negative. The sexual state showed all typical signs of arthroderma-morph and is described by using optical as well as scanning electron microscopy. The sexual state was induced on a set of agar media, however low cultivation temperature and the presence of keratin source were crucial for the success rather than formulation of medium.

• Klíčová slova
• Arthroderma, MAT locus, Onygenales, geophilic dermatophytes, keratinophilic fungi, tinea unguium,
• MeSH
• buněčné dělení * MeSH
• crossing over (genetika) * MeSH
• DNA fungální chemie   genetika   MeSH
• fungální geny pro párovací typ MeSH
• kultivační média chemie   MeSH
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mikroskopie MeSH
• molekulární sekvence - údaje MeSH
• nehty mikrobiologie   patologie   MeSH
• onychomykóza diagnóza   mikrobiologie   MeSH
• sekvenční analýza DNA MeSH
• Trichophyton genetika   izolace a purifikace   fyziologie   MeSH
• Check Tag
• lidé středního věku MeSH
• lidé MeSH
• mužské pohlaví MeSH
• Publikační typ
• časopisecké články MeSH
• kazuistiky MeSH
• práce podpořená grantem MeSH
• Geografické názvy
• Dánsko MeSH
• Názvy látek
• DNA fungální MeSH
• kultivační média MeSH