bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPONTANEOUS RESOLUTION OF RETINOSCHISIS IN THE SETTING OF NARROW-ANGLE GLAUCOMA: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Pucchio Aidan , Pereira Austin , Pal Shalu , Choudhry Netan
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To present a rare case of retinoschisis in the setting of narrow-angle glaucoma that demonstrated spontaneous resolution with conservative management.

Methods:

Case report presentation from the Vitreous Retina Macula Specialists of Toronto in December 2020.

Results:

A 65-year-old woman with previous bilateral laser peripheral iridotomies for narrow-angle glaucoma was referred to a tertiary retina clinic for the assessment of query macular edema in the left eye. The patient presented with a blunted foveal reflex in the left eye, and optical coherence tomography imaging demonstrated diffuse retinoschisis of outer retinal layers in the peripapillary region and nasal macula. The patient elected for conservative management, and by 10-month follow-up, her retinoschisis resolved spontaneously.

Conclusion:

Only seven cases of retinoschisis in the setting of narrow-angle glaucoma have been identified in the literature. This is the first case in this setting to demonstrate spontaneous resolution with conservative management. Although laser peripheral iridotomies have been shown to resolve retinoschisis in narrow-angle glaucoma patients, clinicians should be aware of a conservative management approach to yield a positive improvement in retinal integrity.
A Real-World Study of Risk Factors for QTc Prolongation in Schizophrenia Patients Receiving Atypical Antipsychotics
Authors: He Luyao , Yu Yimin , Zhang Lei , He Shen , Yu Wenjuan , Li Lujin , Huang Jingjing , Li Huafang
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The risk of sudden cardiac death in patients receiving atypical antipsychotics may be related to QTc prolongation. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for QTc prolongation to prevent QTc prolongation and guide clinical practice.

Methods

All electrocardiogram recordings of 913 schizophrenia patients who were receiving atypical antipsychotics were reviewed for prolonged QTc and associated conditions. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to investigate risk factors for QTc prolongation.

Results

Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that sex (odds ratio [OR], 0.386; P = 0.010), age (OR, 1.047; P = 0.000), high-density lipoprotein (OR, 0.257; P = 0.014), and antipsychotics dose (OR, 1.040; P = 0.036) were significantly associated with QTc prolongation.

Conclusions

In patients with male sex, elder age, low high-density lipoprotein, or large antipsychotics dose, QTc should be monitored more frequently.
The efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant nimotuzumab for gastric cancer
Authors: Cao Bin , Wang Qian , Fu Xiao-li , Wei Guo-dong , Zhao Long , Zhang Pei-jun , Li Dairong , Zhang Hui-qing , Zhang Qi
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

The efficacy of neoadjuvant nimotuzumab for gastric cancer remained controversial. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to explore the efficacy of neoadjuvant nimotuzumab plus chemotherapy vs chemotherapy for gastric cancer.

Methods:

We have searched PubMed, EMbase, Web of science, EBSCO, and Cochrane library databases through May 2019, and included randomized controlled trials assessing the efficacy of neoadjuvant nimotuzumab plus chemotherapy vs chemotherapy for gastric cancer. This meta-analysis was performed using the random-effect model.

Results:

Four randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. There were 128 patients included in intervention group and 131 patients included in control group. Overall, compared with chemotherapy for gastric cancer, neoadjuvant nimotuzumab plus chemotherapy showed no substantial influence on response rate (risk ratio [RR] = 1.22; 95% CI = 0.78–1.89; P = .38), disease control rate (RR = 2.22; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.32–15.40; P = .42), rash (RR = 1.26; 95% CI = 0.96–1.66; P = .10), neutropenia (RR = 1.26; 95% CI = 0.96–1.66; P = .10), anemia (RR = 1.08; 95% CI = 0.62–1.89; P = .78), or nausea (RR = 1.19; 95% CI = 0.96–1.48; P = .12), but might improve the incidence of vomiting (RR = 1.60; 95% CI = 1.03–2.50; P = .04).

Conclusions:

Neoadjuvant nimotuzumab might provide no additional benefits to the treatment of gastric cancer.
Comparison of administration of single- and triple-course steroid pulse therapy combined with tonsillectomy for immunoglobulin A nephropathy
Authors: Watanabe-Kusunoki Kanako , Nakazawa Daigo , Yamamoto Junya , Matsuoka Naoko , Kaneshima Nobuharu , Nakagaki Tasuku , Yamamoto Rie , Maoka Tomochika , Iwasaki Sari , Tsuji Takahiro , Fukasawa Yuichiro , Nishimoto Naoki , Nishio Saori , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: December 2021

Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is a form of chronic glomerulonephritis that can cause end-stage renal disease. Recently, tonsillectomy combined with corticosteroid pulse (TSP) has been shown to be effective for achieving clinical remission and favorable renal outcome in patients with IgAN. However, the standard regimen of corticosteroid use in TSP has not been established. Herein, we compared the effect of single- or triple-course steroid pulse therapy combined with tonsillectomy in patients with IgAN.

This retrospective, observational cohort study included 122 patients with IgAN enrolled from January 2004 to December 2018 at 2 independent institutions. We divided the patients into 2 groups; single-course (TSP1: n = 70) and triple-course (TSP3: n = 52) of corticosteroid pulse therapy (1 course comprised 3 consecutive days’ infusion of 0.5 g methylprednisolone) combined with tonsillectomy. The primary outcome for renal survival was defined as the first occurrence of ≧30% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of clinical remission and recurrence of the disease.

Regarding clinical parameters and findings at baseline, there were no significant differences between the 2 groups. The 8-years renal survival in the 2 groups was not significantly different according to Kaplan–Meier curves (TSP1; 82.5% vs TSP3; 69.2%, log-rank test P = .39). The cumulative incidence rates of remission of hematuria (94.4% vs 85.4%, P = .56) and clinical remission (85.0% vs 64.8%, P = .07) were comparable in both groups, while those of proteinuria showed higher rates in TSP1 than TSP3 (88.4% vs 65.4%, P = .02). The cumulative incidence of relapse of hematuria (5.6% vs 2.3%, P = .42) and proteinuria (7.1% vs 3.3%, P = .41) showed no significant differences in the 2 groups. Cox regression analyses showed that the number of courses of corticosteroid pulse therapy was not significantly associated with renal outcome (TSP1 vs TSP3; Hazard ratios 0.69, 95% confidence intervals 0.29-1.64, P = .39).

The effect of single-course corticosteroid pulse therapy is not statistically, significantly different from triple-course in TSP protocol for improving renal outcome and preventing relapse in patients with IgAN. Single-course corticosteroid pulse therapy may become a treatment option for patients with IgAN.
Current status of laparoscopic hepatectomy for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hendi Maher , Lv Jiemin , Cai Xiu-Jun
Published: December 2021

Background:

Laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH) was first introduced in the 1990s and has now become widely accepted for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is considered a safe and effective approach for liver disease. However, the role of laparoscopic hepatectomy in HCC with cirrhosis remains controversial and needs to be further assessed, and the present literature review aimed to review the surgical and oncological outcomes of Laparoscopic hepatectomy (LH). According to Hong and colleagues laparoscopic resection for liver cirrhosis is a very safe and feasible procedure for both ideal cases and select patients with high risk factors [29]. The presence of only 1 of these factors does not represent an absolute contraindication for LH.

Methods and results:

We selected 23 studies involving about 1363 HCC patients treated with LH. 364 (27%) patients experienced major resections. The mean operative time was 244.9 minutes, the mean blood loss was 308.1 mL and blood transfusions were required in only 4.9% of patients. There were only 2 (0.21%) postoperative deaths and overall morbidity was 9.9%. Tumor recurrence ranged from 6 to 25 months. The 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year disease free Survival (DFS) rates ranged from 71.9% to 99%, 50.3% to 91.2%, and 19% to 82% respectively. Overall survival rates ranged from 88% to 100%, 73.4% to 94.5%, and 52.6% to 94.5% respectively.

Conclusions:

In our summery LH is lower risk and safer than conventional open liver surgery and is just as efficacious. Also, the LH approach decreased blood-loss, operation time, postoperative morbidity and had a lower conversion rate compared to other procedures whether open or robotic. Finally, LH may serve as a promising alternative to open procedures.
Efficacy and safety evaluation of bright light therapy in patients with post-stroke insomnia
Authors: Lei Huabin , Wang Wei , Cao Yinan , Ma Yaru , Xue Xusheng
Published: December 2021

Background:

Post-stroke insomnia (PSI) is a common and severe illness among the complications of stroke. Although there are plenty of drugs currently used for PSI treatment, they generate several side effects and other problems. Bright light therapy (BLT) is thought to be relatively safe and effective in treating PSI patients. Despite this, there is still a lack of systematic review on BLT in the treatment of PSI. Allowing for this, the aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of BLT for PSI.

Methods:

The meta-analysis and systematic review will perform a comprehensive electronic search for items fulfilling the required criteria in Web of Science, Google Scholar, Wan Fang database, MEDLINE, Baidu Scholar, PubMed, SinoMed, Embase, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM), China national knowledge infrastructure database (CNKI), Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Wei Pu database from establishment to January 1, 2022. We will select articles, collect data, and assess the methodology quality. And we will set the primary outcome and secondary outcomes in this research. RevMan 5.3 software will be used to analyze the data for this investigation.

Results:

The work of this research will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Conclusion:

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy and safety of BLT for PSI and present robust scientific evidence concerning BLT for PSI.

Registration:

INPLASY2021100065.
Efficacy and safety of unilateral biportal endoscopy compared with microscopic decompression in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis
Authors: Li Chuntao , Ju Fei , Li Wenyi , Gao Shangju , Cao Can , Li Changren , He Liang , Ma Xu , Li Meng
Published: December 2021

Objective:

Systematic evaluation of the efficacy and safety of unilateral biportal endoscopic decompression in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic literature search and compared the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and retrospective studies of unilateral biportal endoscopy (UBE) and microscopic decompression (MD) in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis from several databases.

Results:

Seven studies were included. The results of meta-analysis showed that the operation time of UBE was shorter than that of MD. [SMD = −0.443, 95% CI (−0.717, −0.169), P 
= .002]. Compared with MD, the patients’ back pain was slighter on the 1st day, 1–2 months and 6 months after UBE. During the long-term follow-up, there was no significant difference in back pain between MD and UBE [SMD = −0.519, 95% CI (−0.934, −0.104), P 
= .014]. There was no significant difference in lower limb visual analogue score (VAS) score between UBE decompression and MD [SMD = −0.105, 95% CI (−0.356, 0.146), P 
= .412]. The results of meta-analysis showed that the C-reactive protein (CRP) level of UBE was lower than that of MD [weighted mean difference = −1.437, 95% CI (−2.347, −0.527), P 
= .002]. There was no significant difference in other clinical effects between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

The operation time of UBE was shorter than that of MD, and it was superior to micro decompression in early back VAS score, lower limb VAS score and early postoperative CRP level. There was no statistical difference between UBE and MD in other outcomes.
Clinical use of platelet-rich fibrin in the repair of non-healing incision wounds after fibular fracture surgery
Authors: Lin Xingzhen , Zhu Manhua , Yuan Juan , Zhi Fang , Hou XinJu
Published: December 2021

Rationale:

This report describes rehabilitation for a 53-year-old female recovering from non-healing skin and soft tissue defect after distal tibial open fracture by using platelet-rich fibrin topical repair following an automobile accident.

Patient concerns:

The patient was admitted to a rehabilitation specialty hospital approximately 1 year post a fracture of the distal left tibiofibula and separate surgical tibiofibular fracture incision and internal fixation + bone grafting.

Diagnoses:

Clinical presentation included the left ankle incision was interrupted for about 3 cm with poor healing, a small amount of muscle necrosis, fat liquefaction, a large amount of yellow purulent secretion overflow and necrotic material was seen in the local wound.

Interventions:

Platelet rich fibrin (PRF) gel was injected into the wounds and submerged sites to make full contact with the wounds and close the wounds with the autologous platelet-rich fibrin prepared by mixing, and then covered with oil gauze to keep the wounds moist and promote granulation growth. The outermost layer was covered with cotton pads.

Outcomes:

After 30 days of 2 PRF treatments, the skin defect was healed and no significant abnormality was observed at 6 months follow-up.

Lessons:

Treatment with topical autologous platelet-rich plasma gel Significantly accelerates the healing of wounds, shortens healing time, improves healing quality and reduces scar formation without significant adverse effects.
Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy in the mandible
Authors: Takeuchi Ryoko , Funayama Akinori , Oda Yohei , Abé Tatsuya , Yamazaki Manabu , Maruyama Satoshi , Hayashi Takafumi , Tanuma Jun-ichi , Kobayashi Tadaharu
Published: December 2021

Rationale:

Melanocytic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare benign pigmented neoplasm that arises from the neural crest and has an aggressive growth pattern. It is predominantly seen in infants under 1 year of age, and the most common site of involvement is the maxilla. The currently accepted treatment is removal by surgical resection. Herein, we report a case of MNTI that involved the anterior alveolar ridge of the mandible in a 6-month-old infant.

Patient concerns:

A case of a 6-month-old male child with a huge mass in the anterior alveolar ridge of the mandible.

Diagnosis:

The tumor was diagnosed using histopathological and immunohistochemical techniques on the biopsy specimen obtained following incisional biopsy. Based on the findings, a final diagnosis of MNTI was established.

Interventions:

Radical resection of the tumor was performed, after determining the extent of resection by referring to the mandibular 3D model created using the pre-operative CT data.

Outcomes:

The postoperative course was uneventful, and no recurrence has been observed to date for more than 4 years after surgery.

Lessons:

This case emphasizes that early diagnosis and radical surgery are critical to the effective treatment, as MNTI exhibits rapid and destructive growth. It also requires careful and close follow-up because of high recurrence rates.
Synchronous occurrence of HPV-associated cervical squamous cell carcinoma (FIGO IIA) in prolapsed uterus and adenocarcinoma of the anal canal cT1N0M0
Authors: Skręt Andrzej , Trawińska Joanna , Bielatowicz Joanna , Książek Mariusz , Niewęgłowska-Guzik Beata , Radkowski Andrzej , Kargol Jaromir , Magierło Joanna Skręt- , Barnaś Edyta , Gawlik Bogusław
Published: December 2021

Rationale:

Guidelines of rare synchronous tumours treatment are often unavailable due to lack of wide prospective studies. Additionally, their management is not just a simple sum of coexisting tumours management and has to regard many circumstances like symptoms, age, comorbidities, advancement.

Patient concerns:

Herein, we report a case of an 81-year-old woman who presented with bleeding from the prolapsed uterus.

Diagnoses:

Based on physical examination, that is, speculum examination, bimanual, and per rectum, followed by rectoscopy and histopathology, the diagnosis of cervical squamous cell carcinoma FIGO IIA2 in prolapsed uterus with anal canal adenocarcinoma cT1N0M0 was made.

Interventions:

Dominating complaint of bleeding from prolapsed cervix was managed with radical vaginal hysterectomy in conjunction with wide colpectomy preceded by laparoscopic pelvic and paraaortic lymphadenectomy. Due to the lack of consent for removal of the anus, only radiotherapy was applied instead.

Outcomes:

The patient underwent magnetic resonance image follow-up. No recurrence was found at 18 months.

Lessons:

Imaging is useful method of synchronous cancers diagnostics. These cancers may vary in aetiology and stage. Cervical cancer may be co-existing with another anogenital cancer. Therapy of synchronous cancers should be individualized taking into account patient's consent, age, physical condition, and comorbidities.
Lymphocyte-activating gene-3 expression is associated with tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte levels in HER2-positive breast cancers
Authors: Lee Seokwon , Kim Jee Yeon , Lee So Jeong , Kwon Soon Wook , Jung Ho Jin , Jung Se Jin , Kim Kyung Bin , Choi Kyung Un , Lee Chang Hun , Huh Gi Yeong , Kim Ahrong
Published: December 2021

Lymphocyte-activating gene-3 (LAG-3, CD223) is the third inhibitory receptor targeted for immunotherapy. Several clinical trials investigating the use of interventions targeting LAG-3 are underway. The exact signaling mechanism downstream of LAG-3 is largely unknown, especially in breast cancer. The prognostic significance of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in breast cancer has been previously determined.

Among 167 human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer patients, 90 and 78 patients were positive and negative for the hormone receptor, respectively. LAG-3 mRNA and protein expression levels in TILs were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively, among 12 and 167 HER2-positive breast cancer samples, respectively.

High expression of LAG-3 in TILs was significantly correlated with high levels of TILs (P = .003) and an abundance of tertiary lymphoid structures around invasive components (P = .014). In addition, high expression of LAG3 was significantly associated with positivity for programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) in tumor cells, a high immunostaining score of PD-L1 in TILs, and a high total immunostaining score for PD-L1 in tumor cells and TILs (all, P < .001). High expression levels of LAG-3 mRNA were associated with high levels of TILs (P = .091).

LAG-3 protein expression was not a prognostic factor in HER2-positive breast cancers, and LAG-3 expression in TILs was significantly associated with the levels of TILs in HER2-positive breast cancer, although it was not a prognostic factor.
Improving knowledge and perception of HIV/AIDS among English language speaking children in rural areas through educational digital storytelling
Authors: Dike Ibiwari Caroline , Ebizie Elizabeth N. , Njoku Obiageli C. , Oraelosi Charles A. , Egbe Cajetan Ikechukwu , Nnamani Amuche Patricia , Ezeaku Margret N. , Ihuoma Ekomaru Chinyere , Otu Mkpoikanke Sunday , Okechukwu Franca Obiageli , Anowai Chinwe Christiana , Nnodim Ezine Judith , Ukwuezeh Chika Priscillia , Onuorah Adaorah R. , Onwuegbuchulam Adaobi Chinenyenwa
Published: December 2021

Background/Objective:

Previous research efforts have shown the need for improvement of knowledge and perception of HIV/AIDS among English Language speaking children in rural areas. Hence, the study at hand was designed to investigate the effect of using educational digital storytelling intervention to satisfy this need of English Language children in rural areas in Nigeria.

Method:

The study adopted a randomized control design involving a pretest, post-test, and follow-up measures. Eight-four children (n = 84) took part in the study. The HIV Knowledge Questionnaire (HIV-KQ-18) and the Perceived Risk of HIV Scale (PRHS) were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using t test statistics.

Result:

The educational digital storytelling intervention in appreciably improved knowledge and perception of English language children in rural areas who participated in the intervention concerning HIV/AIDS compared with their peers in the no-intervention control group. The improvement in knowledge and perception gained was also maintained throughout the follow-up evaluation period.

Conclusion:

The present study showed that the use of educational digital storytelling could improve knowledge and perception of HIV/AIDS among English Language speaking children in rural areas. Educational digital storytelling intervention effectively improved knowledge and perception of HIV/AIDS among children in rural areas. In return, we recommend that rural sociologists, counselors, language and communication experts, child educators, and other professionals involved in public health especially, as it concerns children be skilled in the use and application of educational digital storytelling intervention procedures to facilitate the move towards adopting the method in their professional practices.
Tracheal rupture after vocal cord polyp resection
Authors: Hu Xinqi , Chen Xiaofeng , Cui Xidong , Cao Yitan , Sun Guangbin
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) is one of the most common operations performed for glottic lesions. Several protection measures are taken to prevent tracheal damage. However, some protection measures and common postoperative complications may still cause delayed tracheal rupture in certain situations. Cases of tracheal rupture after surgery are extremely rare, and there are no previous reports of TLM of the glottis causing tracheal rupture.

Patient concerns:

A middle-aged woman who underwent TLM for bilateral vocal cord polyps developed sudden neck pain, followed by cough and subcutaneous emphysema.

Diagnosis:

She underwent head, neck, and chest computed tomography (CT), which revealed a 4-cm membranous tracheal tear located 4.5 cm distal to the glottis, pneumomediastinum, and subcutaneous emphysema extending from the base of skull to the chest.

Interventions:

The patient underwent an emergency surgical surgical chest exploration and tracheal repair.

Outcomes:

One month after the surgery, the patient fully recovered with no tracheal stenosis or respiratory dysfunction.

Conclusions:

Conventional protective measures and common postoperative complications of TLM may also cause tracheal rupture.
Sports injuries and risk factors for table tennis among nonprofessional collegiate athletes
Authors: Teo Moeka Mong Jia , Chang Feng-Hang , Lin Yen-Nung
Published: December 2021

Despite the increasing popularity of table tennis worldwide, few studies have focused on table tennis injuries.

This study aimed to investigate the injury profiles, including the injury rate, types, locations, and risk factors, among nonprofessional collegiate table tennis athletes in Taiwan.

We performed an online investigation among collegiate table tennis athletes of the nonprofessional category in the 2019 National Intercollegiate Athletic Games in Taiwan. Participants provided general information, and data on the characteristics of their play style, training, and injuries were collected. We then categorized these participants into injured and noninjured groups. Injuries were classified as mild, moderate, and severe, based on the time loss in playing table tennis. The risk factors for table tennis-related sports injuries were then identified through between-group comparisons.

In total, 150 participants responded to the questionnaire. The average participant age was 21.3 years. Gender differences existed in age categories, forehand rubber, backhand style of play, and average days of training per week. Over the 6 months before the study, 76 of 150 participants experienced at least one injury. The handedness for play was associated with the occurrence of injury. Factors associated with injury severity included using rubber other than inverted rubber for the forehand and not qualifying for the national round of the team category of the National Intercollegiate Athletic Games.

With a considerably high injury rate among nonprofessional collegiate athletes, further studies are required on table tennis-related injuries. Playing styles such as handedness and type of rubber used might be associated with the injury. The lower limb was the most common site of injury. These results may provide insights into trainers and coaches for further measures on injury prevention.
Protective effect of hawthorn vitexin on the ethanol-injured DNA of BRL-3A hepatocytes
Authors: Ding Chengshi , Shen Henglun , Tian Zhongjing , Kang Meiling , Ma Jing , He Qing , Wang Jinglong , Zhang Yingxia , Deng Yanmei , Wang Deya
Published: December 2021

Vitexin is a natural active ingredient in hawthorn leaves, which has a wide range of anti-tumor effects. This study was conducted to assess the protective effect of hawthorn vitexin on the ethanol-injured DNA of hepatocytes in vitro and to explore its mechanism. The effect of different concentrations of hawthorn vitexin on ethanol-injured hepatocytes was detected via the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide method to study the protective effect of hawthorn vitexin on ethanol-injured DNA damage in hepatocytes. Single-cell gel electrophoresis was used to observe the effect of hawthorn vitexin on ethanol-induced DNA damage in hepatocytes, and the Olive tail moment was measured. Cell physiological and biochemical indexes, such as superoxide dismutase activity, malonaldehyde content, and glutathione peroxidase activity, were detected with kits. The mRNA expression of the superoxide dismutase gene was measured via real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. It was showed that 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mg mL−1 hawthorn vitexin could significantly repair hepatocyte growth and ethanol-induced DNA damage. This effect was closely related to the improvement in superoxide dismutase, malonaldehyde, and glutathione peroxidase. Hawthorn vitexin could be used to repair ethanol-injured hepatocytes through antioxidation effects, and showed potential for the treatment of liver injury.
Platelet-associated parameters in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Li Li , Yu Jianxiu , Zhou Zhongwei
Published: December 2021

Background:

The relationship between platelet-associated parameters and psoriasis has been controversial. The purpose of our meta-analysis was to assess whether platelet count, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), mean platelet volume (MPV), and platelet distribution width (PDW) are associated with psoriasis.

Methods:

We performed a thorough documentation retrieval via PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science until June 2021. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

Results:

Overall, 22 studies involving 1749 patients with psoriasis and 1538 healthy controls were selected for the meta-analysis. The outcomes showed that platelet count presented non-significant differences between psoriatic patients and normal individuals (SMD = 0.12, 95% CI =  −0.07 to 0.32, P = .210), while PLR (SMD = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.03–0.53, P = .031), MPV (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.30–0.79, P < .001), and PDW (SMD = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.03–0.55, P = .027) were remarkably greater in the psoriatic patients than in the healthy individuals, and similar results were found in subgroup analyses. The analytical results of susceptibility revealed that the outcomes were robust, and no evidence of substantial publication bias was identified.

Conclusion:

Patients with psoriasis present significantly higher PLR, MPV, and PDW than healthy individuals, suggesting that psoriasis is accompanied by low-grade systemic inflammation and platelet activation.
A promising prognostic signature for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients basing on 6 hypoxia-related genes
Authors: Luo Jie , Du Xiaotian
Published: December 2021

Background:

Hypoxia signaling plays a critical role in the development of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). We herein aimed to explore the prognostic value of hypoxia-related genes and construct the hypoxia-related prognostic signature for LUAD patients.

Methods:

A total of 26 hypoxia-related genes were collected. Five hundred thirteen and 246 LUAD samples were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases, respectively. Univariate Cox regression and LASSO Cox regression analyses were conducted to screen the hypoxia-related genes associated with the prognosis of LUAD patients, which would be used for constructing prognosis predictive model for LUAD patients. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was done to determine the independent prognostic factors. The Nomogram model was constructed to predict the prognosis of LUAD patients.

Results:

Based on 26 hypoxia-related genes, LUAD samples could be divided into 4 clusters with different prognoses. Among which, 6 genes were included to construct the Risk Score and the LUAD patients with higher Risk Score had worse prognosis. Besides, the Nomogram based on all the independent risk factors could relatively reliably predict the survival probability. And 9 types of immune cells’ infiltration was significantly differential between high and low risk LUAD patients.

Conclusion:

The Risk Score model based on the 6 crucial hypoxia-related genes could relatively reliably predict the prognosis of LUAD patients.
Case report of concomitant avulsion fractures of the medial meniscus and posterior cruciate ligament
Authors: Cengiz Bertan , Karaoglu Sinan
Published: December 2021

Rationale:

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the strongest ligament of the knee, and avulsion fractures of PCL are a very rare type of injury. These injuries occur as a result of high-energy traumas, and different accompanying pathologies may be seen. However, tibial avulsion fracture of the PCL associated with a medial meniscus (MM) avulsion fracture has never been reported before. We want to present this unique type of posteromedial knee injury as a case report.

Patient concern:

A 42-year-old man presented with severe pain and swelling due to a ski injury.

Diagnosis:

Concomitant avulsion fractures of PCL and MM were detected after imaging.

Interventions:

Both avulsion fractures were treated with open reduction and fixation with lag screws using the posterior approach.

Outcomes:

No complications were encountered, and the painless full range of motion and weight-bearing was achieved at the third month after the operation.

Lessons:

Anatomical reduction and stable fixation of these intra-articular fractures are essential for the stability of the knee. The posterior approach should be kept in mind to access these types of fractures safely. Care should be taken in terms of other injuries that may accompany the PCL avulsion fractures caused by high-energy traumas.
Evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of icariin in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Liu Lang , Zhao Changwei , Zhao Shuang , Xu Hanxun , Peng Zeyu , Zhang Binghua , Cai Wenjun , Mo Yifang , Zhao Wenhai
Published: December 2021

Background:

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic degenerative disease involving cartilage and surrounding tissues. It causes a huge burden to social and medical resources and seriously affects people's living and working ability. In recent years, people have become increasingly interested in the application of Chinese medicine monomers to treat KOA. Among them, icariin plays an important role in the clinical treatment of KOA. Therefore, to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of icariin in the treatment of KOA, we conducted this study to provide a new basis for the clinical treatment of KOA.

Methods:

We propose a systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and China Biomedical databases for all randomized controlled trials examining the use of icariin in the treatment of KOA patients up to October 20, 2021. The screening and data extraction processes will be performed independently by 2 researchers. We will use the Cochrane risk bias assessment tool to evaluate the quality of the studies that met the inclusion criteria. The data will be statistically analyzed using RevMan5.3 software.

Result:

This study will provide high-quality evidence for the effectiveness and safety of icariin in the treatment of KOA.

Conclusion:

The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy of icariin in the treatment of KOA and to provide clinicians and patients with new treatment strategies.

INPLASY registration number:

INPLASY2021110015.
Sex-related differences in mortality, acute kidney injury, and respiratory failure among critically ill patients with COVID-19
Authors: Toth-Manikowski Stephanie M. , Caldwell Jillian , Joo Min , Chen Jinsong , Meza Natalie , Bruinius Jacob , Gupta Shruti , Hannan Mary , Kagalwalla Mustafa , Madrid Samantha , Melamed Michal L. , Pacheco Esther , Srivastava Anand , Viamontes Christopher , Lash James P. , Leaf David E. , Ricardo Ana C.
Published: December 2021

Although the number of deaths due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is higher in men than women, prior studies have provided limited sex-stratified clinical data.

We evaluated sex-related differences in clinical outcomes among critically ill adults with COVID-19.

Multicenter cohort study of adults with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 admitted to intensive care units at 67 U.S. hospitals from March 4 to May 9, 2020. Multilevel logistic regression was used to evaluate 28-day in-hospital mortality, severe acute kidney injury (AKI requiring kidney replacement therapy), and respiratory failure occurring within 14 days of intensive care unit admission.

A total of 4407 patients were included (median age, 62 years; 2793 [63.4%] men; 1159 [26.3%] non-Hispanic White; 1220 [27.7%] non-Hispanic Black; 994 [22.6%] Hispanic). Compared with women, men were younger (median age, 61 vs 64 years, less likely to be non-Hispanic Black (684 [24.5%] vs 536 [33.2%]), and more likely to smoke (877 [31.4%] vs 422 [26.2%]). During median follow-up of 14 days, 1072 men (38.4%) and 553 women (34.3%) died. Severe AKI occurred in 590 men (21.8%), and 239 women (15.5%), while respiratory failure occurred in 2255 men (80.7%) and 1234 women (76.5%). After adjusting for age, race/ethnicity and clinical variables, compared with women, men had a higher risk of death (OR, 1.50, 95% CI, 1.26–1.77), severe AKI (OR, 1.92; 95% CI 1.57–2.36), and respiratory failure (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.11–1.80).

In this multicenter cohort of critically ill adults with COVID-19, men were more likely to have adverse outcomes compared with women.
Do patients at high risk for Hepatitis C receive recommended testing? A retrospective cohort study of statewide Medicaid claims linked with OneFlorida clinical data
Authors: Mkuu Rahma S. , Shenkman Elizabeth A. , Muller Keith E. , Huo Tianyao , Salloum Ramzi G. , Cabrera Roniel , Zarrinpar Ali , Thomas Emmanuel , Szurek Sarah M. , Nelson David R.
Published: December 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma.

We employed a retrospective cohort study design and analyzed 2012–2018 Medicaid claims linked with electronic health records data from the OneFlorida Data Trust, a statewide data repository containing electronic health records data for 15.07 million Floridians from 11 health care systems. Only adult patients at high-risk for HCV (n = 30,113), defined by diagnosis of: HIV/AIDS (20%), substance use disorder (64%), or sexually transmitted infections (22%) were included. Logistic regression examined factors associated with meeting the recommended sequence of HCV testing.

Overall, 44.1% received an HCV test. The odds of receiving an initial test were significantly higher for pregnant females (odds ratio [OR]1.99; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.86–2.12; P < .001) and increased with age (OR 1.01; 95% CI 1.00–1.01; P < .001).Among patients with low Charlson comorbidity index (CCI = 1), non-Hispanic (NH) black patients (OR 0.86; 95% CI 0.81–0.9; P < .001) had lower odds of getting an HCV test; however, NH black patients with CCI = 10 had higher odds (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.21–1.66; P < .001) of receiving a test. Of those who tested negative during initial testing, 17% received a second recommended test after 6 to 24 months. Medicaid-Medicare dual eligible patients, those with high CCI (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.11–1.17; P < .001), NH blacks (OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.61–2.32; P < .001), and Hispanics (OR 1.49; 95% CI 1.08–2.06; P = .02) were significantly more likely to have received a second HCV test, while pregnant females (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.57–0.89; P = .003), had lower odds of receiving it. The majority of patients who tested positive during the initial test (97%) received subsequent testing.

We observed suboptimal adherence to the recommended HCV testing among high-risk patients underscoring the need for tailored interventions aimed at successfully navigating high-risk individuals through the HCV screening process. Future interventional studies targeting multilevel factors, including patients, clinicians and health systems are needed to increase HCV screening rates for high-risk populations.
Shoulder pain across more movements is not related to more rotator cuff tendon findings in people with chronic shoulder pain diagnosed with subacromial pain syndrome
Authors: Alaiti Rafael Krasic , Caneiro J.P. , Gasparin Juliana T. , Chaves Thais Cristina , Malavolta Eduardo A. , Gracitelli Mauro E.C. , Meulders Ann , Costa Marcelo Fernandes da
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

People with chronic shoulder pain commonly report pain during arm movements in daily-life activities. Pain related to movement is commonly viewed as an accurate representation of tissue damage. Thus, when a person reports pain across a variety of movements, this is often understood as indicative of greater damage.

Objectives:

We aimed to investigate if movement-related pain that occurs across a wider variety of movements was associated with the number or severity of rotator cuff tendons reported as abnormal on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). To answer this question, this study was designed in 3 phases.

Methods:

We recruited 130 individuals with chronic shoulder pain diagnosed with subacromial pain syndrome. First, a list of daily functional activities commonly reported as painful by people with chronic shoulder pain was generated from 3 well-established outcome measures with 30 individuals and a measurement tool was developed with data from further 100 individuals, which demonstrated to have acceptable content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, interrater reliability, and structural validity. Multiple linear regression was then used to evaluate the hypotheses of the study. A direct acyclic graph was used to select variables for linear regression modelling.

Results:

There was no association between movement-related pain occurrence across movements and the MRI findings.

Conclusion:

Our study provides evidence that neither the number of rotator cuff tendons reported as abnormal nor the severity of each tendon imaging finding were associated with pain occurrence across movements and activities commonly perceived as painful by people with chronic shoulder pain.
Spinal integration of hot and cold nociceptive stimuli by wide-dynamic-range neurons in anesthetized adult rats
Authors: Gieré Clémence , Melchior Meggane , Dufour André , Poisbeau Pierrick
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Early neuronal processing of thermal noxious information relies mostly on molecular detectors of the transient receptor potential family expressed by specific subpopulation of sensory neurons. This information may converge to second-order wide-dynamic-range (WDR) neurons located in the deep layer of the dorsal horn of the spinal cord.

Method:

Using a micro-Peltier thermode thermal contact stimulator II delivering various cold and hot noxious stimulations, we have characterized the extracellular electrophysiological responses of mechanosensitive WDR neurons in anesthetized adult male and female Wistar rats.

Results:

Most of the WDR neurons were activated after hot and cold noxious stimulations, at mean temperature thresholds corresponding to 43 and 20°C, respectively. If the production of action potential was not different in frequency between the 2 thermal modalities, the latency to observe the first action potential was significantly different (cold: 212 ms; hot: 490 ms, unpaired Student t-test: t = 8.041; df = 32; P < 0.0001), suggesting that different fiber types and circuits were involved. The temporal summation was also different because no facilitation was seen for cold noxious stimulations contrary to hot noxious ones.

Conclusion:

Altogether, this study helps better understand how short-lasting and long-lasting hot or cold noxious stimuli are integrated by mechanosensitive WDR neurons. In our experimental conditions, we found WDR neurons to be nociceptive specific for C-fiber–mediated hot stimuli. We also found that cold nonnoxious and noxious information, triggered at glabrous skin areas, are likely taken in charge by A-type sensory neurons. This study will be helpful to establish working hypothesis explaining the thermal pain symptoms displayed by animal models and patients in a translational extent.
Immunomodulatory potential of four candidate probiotic Lactobacillus strains from plant and animal origin using comparative genomic analysis
Authors: Salvador Paul Benedic U. , Dalmacio Leslie Michelle M. , Kim Sang Hoon , Kang Dae-Kyung , Balolong Marilen P.
Published: December 2021

Probiotic strains from different origins have shown promise in recent decades for their health benefits, for example in promoting and regulating the immune system. The immunomodulatory potential of four

Lactobacillus

strains from animal and plant origins was evaluated in this paper based on their genomic information. Comparative genomic analysis was performed through genome alignment, average nucleotide identity (ANI) analysis and gene mining for putative immunomodulatory genes. The genomes of the four

Lactobacillus

strains show relative similarities in multiple regions, as observed in the genome alignment. However, ANI analysis showed that

L. mucosae

LM1 and

L. fermentum

SK152 are the most similar when considering their nucleotide sequences alone. Gene mining of putative immunomodulatory genes studied from

L. plantarum

WCFS1 yielded multiple results in the four potential probiotic strains, with

L. plantarum

SK151 showing the largest number of genes at around 74 hits, followed by

L. johnsonii

PF01 at 41 genes when adjusted for matches with at least 30 % identity. Looking at the immunomodulatory genes in each strain,

L. plantarum

SK151 and

L. johnsonii

PF01 may have wider activity, covering both immune activation and immune suppression, as compared to

L. mucosae

LM1 and

L. fermentum

SK152, which could be more effective in activating immune cells and the pro-inflammatory cascade rather than suppressing it. The similarities and differences between the four

Lactobacillus

species showed that there is no definitive trend based on the origin of isolation alone. Moreover, higher percentage identities between genomes do not directly correlate with higher similarities in potential activity, such as in immunomodulation. The immunomodulatory function of each of the four

Lactobacillus

strains should be observed and verified experimentally in the future, since some the activity of some genes may be strain-specific, which would not be identified through comparative genomics alone.
Analysis of a Cas12a-based gene-drive system in budding yeast
Authors: Lewis Isabel C. , Yan Yao , Finnigan Gregory C.
Published: December 2021

The discovery and adaptation of CRISPR/Cas systems within molecular biology has provided advances across biological research, agriculture and human health. Genomic manipulation through use of a CRISPR nuclease and programmed guide RNAs has become a common and widely accessible practice. The identification and introduction of new engineered variants and orthologues of Cas9 as well as alternative CRISPR systems such as the type V group have provided additional molecular options for editing. These include distinct PAM requirements, staggered DNA double-strand break formation, and the ability to multiplex guide RNAs from a single expression construct. Use of CRISPR/Cas has allowed for the construction and testing of a powerful genetic architecture known as a gene drive within eukaryotic model systems. Our previous work developed a drive within budding yeast using

Streptococcus pyogenes

Cas9. Here, we installed the type V

Francisella novicida

Cas12a (Cpf1) nuclease gene and its corresponding guide RNA to power a highly efficient artificial gene drive in diploid yeast. We examined the consequence of altering guide length or introduction of individual mutational substitutions to the crRNA sequence. Cas12a-dependent gene-drive function required a guide RNA of at least 18 bp and could not tolerate most changes within the 5′ end of the crRNA.
Corynebacterium striatum thrombophlebitis: a nosocomial multidrug-resistant disease?
Authors: Tang Julie , Kornblum Dimitri , Godefroy Nagisa , Monsel Gentiane , Robert Jérome , Caumes Eric , Pourcher Valérie , Klement-Frutos Elise
Published: December 2021

Introduction.

Corynebacterium striatum

is a non-Diphteriae commensal bacterium with a wide range of pathogenicity. The identification of multidrug-resistant (MDR)

C. striatum

is concerning because drug susceptibility testing is not usually performed in microbiology laboratories. There is no consensus yet on the treatment of septic thrombophlebitis in this situation.

Case report. We report here the first case of a quinquagenarian patient with a history of AIDS and fungic endocarditis, who was diagnosed with a nosocomial thrombophlebitis in the right jugular vein caused by

C. striatum

. Bitherapy with daptomycin for 12 days and linezolid for 23 days was combined with a therapeutic anticoagulant. The follow-up included weekly cervical ultrasound controls. The efficiency of the treatment and the stability of the lesions allowed us to alleviate the medication with a prophylactic dose of anticoagulant. The patient was discharged from hospital and showed no signs of recurrence after 12 months.

Conclusion. The lack of consensus relative to the management of septic thrombophlebitis precludes the validation of a specific treatment for the condition. Our results suggest that a combination that includes removal of the medical device is needed. A total of 6 weeks of antibiotherapy should be applied, starting with 2 weeks of vancomycin or a combination of antibiotitherapy with daptomycin in order to reduce the bacterial load and avoid resistance. Six weeks of anticoagulation therapy is effective.
Rapid identification of mcr-1-positive Escherichia coli from patient urine using a novel lipid-based MALDI-TOF-MS assay
Authors: Smith Richard D. , Izac Jerilyn R. , Ha Michael , Yang Hyojik , Johnson J. Kristie , Ernst Robert K.
Published: December 2021

Mobilized colistin resistance (mcr) genes confer resistance to colistin, a last-resort antibiotic for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections. In this case report, we describe a novel lipid-based matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) diagnostic used to rapidly identify an mcr-1-positive

Escherichia coli

directly from a patient with a urinary tract infection without the need for ex vivo growth.