bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The stellar fundamental metallicity relation: the correlation between stellar mass, star formation rate, and stellar metallicity
Authors: Looser Tobias J , D’Eugenio Francesco , Piotrowska Joanna M , Belfiore Francesco , Maiolino Roberto , Cappellari Michele , Baker William M , Tacchella Sandro
Published: June 2024

We present observational evidence for a stellar fundamental metallicity relation (FMR), a smooth relation between stellar mass, star formation rate, and the light-weighted stellar metallicity of galaxies, analogous to the well-established gas-phase FMR. We use the non-parametric software ppxf to reconstruct simultaneously the star formation and chemical-enrichment history of a representative sample of galaxies from the local MaNGA (Mapping Nearby Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory) survey. We find that (i) the metallicity of individual galaxies increases with cosmic time and (ii) at all stellar masses, the metallicity of galaxies is progressively higher, moving from the starburst region above the main sequence (MS) towards the passive galaxies below the MS, manifesting the stellar FMR. The scatter is reduced when replacing the stellar mass $M_{*}$ with $M_{*}/R_{\rm e}$ (with $R_{\rm e}$ being the effective radius), in agreement with previous results using the velocity dispersion $\sigma _{\rm e}$, which correlates with $M_{*}/R_{\rm e}$. Our results point to starvation as the main physical process through which galaxies quench, showing that metal-poor gas accretion from the intergalactic medium/circumgalactic medium – or the lack thereof – plays an important role in galaxy evolution by simultaneously shaping both their star formation and their metallicity evolutions, while outflows play a subordinate role. This interpretation is further supported by the additional finding of a young stellar FMR, tracing only the stellar populations formed in the last 300 Myr. This suggests a tight co-evolution of the chemical composition of both the gaseous interstellar medium and the stellar populations, where the gas-phase FMR is continuously imprinted on to the stars over cosmic times.
A model for galaxy–galaxy strong lensing statistics in surveys
Authors: Ferrami G , Wyithe J Stuart B
Published: June 2024

Photometric wide-area observations in the next decade will be capable of detecting a large number of galaxy-scale strong gravitational lenses, increasing the gravitational lens sample size by orders of magnitude. To aid in forecasting and analysis of these surveys, we construct a flexible model based on observed distributions for the lens and source properties and test it on the results of past lens searches, including SL2S, SuGOHI, and searches on the COSMOS HST and DES fields. We use this model to estimate the expected yields of some current and planned surveys, including Euclid Wide, Vera Rubin LSST, and Roman High Latitude Wide Area. The model proposed includes a set of free parameters to constrain on the identifiability of a lens in an image, allowing construction of prior probability distributions for different lens detection methods. The code used in this work is made publicly available.
Safety, efficacy, and survival outcomes of immune checkpoint inhibitors rechallenge in patients with cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Shi-Jia , Yan Lun-Jie , Wang Han-Chao , Ding Zi-Niu , Liu Hui , Zhang Xiao , Pan Guo-Qiang , Han Cheng-Long , Tian Bao-Wen , Yang Xiao-Rong , Tan Si-Yu , Dong Zhao-Ru , Wang Dong-Xu , Yan Yu-Chuan , Li Tao
Published: June 2024

Backgrounds

There is little evidence on the safety, efficacy, and survival benefit of restarting immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in patients with cancer after discontinuation due to immune-related adverse events (irAEs) or progressive disease (PD). Here, we performed a meta-analysis to elucidate the possible benefits of ICI rechallenge in patients with cancer.

Methods

Systematic searches were conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. The objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and incidence of irAEs were the outcomes of interest.

Results

Thirty-six studies involving 2026 patients were analyzed. ICI rechallenge was associated with a lower incidence of all-grade (OR, 0.05; 95%CI, 0.02-0.13, P < .05) and high-grade irAEs (OR, 0.37; 95%CI, 0.21-0.64, P < .05) when compared with initial ICI treatment. Though no significant difference was observed between rechallenge and initial treatment regarding ORR (OR, 0.69; 95%CI, 0.39-1.20, P = .29) and DCR (OR, 0.85; 95%CI, 0.51-1.40, P = 0.52), patients receiving rechallenge had improved PFS (HR, 0.56; 95%CI, 0.43-0.73, P < .05) and OS (HR, 0.55; 95%CI, 0.43-0.72, P < .05) than those who discontinued ICI therapy permanently. Subgroup analysis revealed that for patients who stopped initial ICI treatment because of irAEs, rechallenge showed similar safety and efficacy with initial treatment, while for patients who discontinued ICI treatment due to PD, rechallenge caused a significant increase in the incidence of high-grade irAEs (OR, 4.97; 95%CI, 1.98-12.5, P < .05) and a decrease in ORR (OR, 0.48; 95%CI, 0.24-0.95, P < .05).

Conclusion

ICI rechallenge is generally an active and feasible strategy that is associated with relative safety, similar efficacy, and improved survival outcomes. Rechallenge should be considered individually with circumspection, and randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these findings.
Current status of advance care planning, palliative care consultation, and end-of-life care in patients with glioblastoma in South Korea
Authors: Suh Koung Jin , Jung Eun Hee , Seo Jeongmin , Ji So Young , Hwang Kihwan , Han Jung Ho , Kim Chae-Yong , Kim In Ah , Kim Yu Jung
Published: June 2024

Background

Given the typical trajectory of glioblastoma, many patients lose decision-making capacity over time, which can lead to inadequate advance care planning (ACP) and end-of-life (EOL) care. We aimed to evaluate patients’ current ACP and EOL care status.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a cohort study on 205 patients referred to oncologists at a Korean tertiary hospital between 2017 and 2022. We collected information on sociodemographic factors, cancer treatment, palliative care consultation, ACP, legal documents on life-sustaining treatment (LST) decisions, and aggressiveness of EOL care.

Results

With a median follow-up time of 18.3 months: 159 patients died; median overall survival: 20.3 months. Of the 159 patients, 11 (6.9%) and 63 (39.6%) had advance directive (AD) and LST plans, respectively, whereas 85 (53.5%) had neither. Among the 63 with LST plans, 10 (15.9%) and 53 (84.1%) completed their forms through self-determination and family determination, respectively. Of the 159 patients who died, 102 (64.2%) received palliative care consultation (median time: 44 days from the first consultation to death) and 78 (49.1%) received aggressive EOL care. Those receiving palliative care consultations were less likely to receive aggressive EOL care (83.3% vs 32.4%, P < .001), and more likely to use more than 3 days of hospice care at EOL (19.6% vs 68.0%, P < .001).

Conclusions

The right to self-determination remains poorly protected among patients with glioblastoma, with nearly 90% not self-completing AD or LST plan. As palliative care consultation is associated with less aggressive EOL care and longer use of hospice care, physicians should promptly introduce patients to ACP conversations and palliative care consultations.
Astragalus polysaccharide alleviates IL-13-induced oxidative stress injury in nasal epithelial cells by inhibiting WTAP-mediated FBXW7 m6A modification
Authors: Cui Wei , Jin Zhenglong , Lin Hanyu , Wang Bin , Chen Guojian , Cheng Yongming
Published: July 2024

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) a common and complicated upper airway disease mediated by specific IgE antibodies. Our study aims to explore the pharmacological effects of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) on AR and elucidate the mechanisms involved.

Methods

RT-qPCR and Western blotting were used to analyze mRNA and protein expression. Interleukin (IL)-13-treated human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) was employed as the AR cell model. Cell apoptosis and viability were evaluated by TUNEL staining and MTT assay, respectively. ROS level was examined by the DCFH-DA probe. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured by the corresponding kits. FBXW7 m6A modification level was assessed by MeRIP assay.

Methods

Our results showed that APS treatment reduced cell apoptosis, ROS, and MDA levels while increasing SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px levels in IL-13-treated hNECs by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. Moreover, APS alleviated IL-13-induced oxidative stress injury in hNECs by downregulating WTAP. In addition, WTAP knockdown increased FBXW7 mRNA stability by regulating FBXW7 mRNA m6A modification. It also turned out that APS alleviated IL-13-induced oxidative stress injury in hNECs through the WTAP/FBXW7 axis.

Conclusions

Taken together, APS inhibited WTAP-mediated FBXW7 m6A modification to alleviate IL-13-induced oxidative stress injury in hNECs.
An update on COPD prevention, diagnosis, and management
Authors: Patel Nisa
Published: June 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the top three causes of death throughout the world. Because of the preventable and treatable nature of the disease along with its prevalence, COPD represents a major public health challenge. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Report provides a review of the most current evidence for prevention of COPD as well as the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of people with the disease. The purpose of this article is to provide a summary of the 2024 revised GOLD Report and current best practices in accordance with the evidence.
Therapeutic management of atopic dermatitis
Authors: Jarrell Lynda
Published: June 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic inflammatory, pruritic skin disorder, is seen primarily in the pediatric population but can be found among all age groups. The symptoms of AD can cause embarrassment in patients and can interrupt daily activities and productivity, potentially resulting in avoidance of social situations. In addition to nonpharmacologic management, mainstay pharmacologic treatments for AD are topical medications including corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitors, and topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. Promising new drugs—oral JAK inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies—have emerged as new treatment options for moderate-to-severe AD.
Acquired Cytomegalovirus Retinitis in Preterm Infant Hospitalized in the NICU
Authors: Tajalli Saleheh , Vafaee Ali , Safi Hamid , Moghaddam Ava Navidi , Fallahi Minoo
Published: July 2024

Background:

Acquired human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a noteworthy disease in infants. This case study will highlight the influence of early diagnosis of CMV retinitis (CMVR) on avoid visual impairment.

Clinical Findings:

We describe a preterm female infant with a birth weight of 2060 gr that was admitted for tracheostomy placement due to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. There were no signs of CMV infection or sepsis in laboratory results upon admission such as serology (IgG, IgM antibodies), Toxoplasma gondii, Rubella virus, Herpes simplex virus, CMVR and urine polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Primary Diagnosis:

Incidentally, upon screening for retinopathy of prematurity, diffuse occlusive vasculitis was detected in the retinal image on the 112th day of life.

Intervention:

Intravenous and intraocular ganciclovir were administered for 4 weeks.

Outcomes:

In the follow-up visit 6 weeks after discharge from the hospital, visual impairment was detected on both sides.

Practice Recommendations:

This is a report of a case of acquired CMVR, a silent finding, as an uncommon complication in preterm neonates during the hospital stay. This diagnosis should be taken into consideration in preterm infants, since early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid visual impairment.
Multimodal data-driven, vertical visualization prediction model for early prediction of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in patients with new-onset hypertension
Authors: Wang Jian , Xu Yanan , Zhu Jiajun , Wu Bing , Wang Yijun , Tan Liguo , Tang Long , Wang Jun
Published: June 2024

Background

: Hypertension is an important contributing factor to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), and multiple risk factors, many of which are implicated in metabolic disorders, contribute to the cause of hypertension. Despite the promise of multimodal data-driven prediction model, no such prediction model was available to predict the risk of ASCVD in Chinese individuals with new-onset hypertension and no history of ASCVD.

Methods

: A total of 514 patients were randomly allocated to training and verification cohorts (ratio, 7 : 3). We employed Boruta feature selection and conducted multivariate Cox regression analyses to identify variables associated with ASCVD in these patients, which were subsequently utilized for constructing the predictive model. The performance of prediction model was assessed in terms of discriminatory power (C-index), calibration (calibration curves), and clinical utility [decision curve analysis (DCA)].

Results

: This model was derived from four clinical variables: 24-h SBP coefficient of variation, 24-h DBP coefficient of variation, urea nitrogen and the triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index. Bootstrapping with 500 iterations was conducted to adjust the C-indexes were C-index = 0.731, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.620–0.794 and C-index: 0.799, 95% CI 0.677–0.892 in the training and verification cohorts, respectively. Calibration plots with 500 bootstrapping iterations exhibited a strong correlation between the predicted and observed occurrences of ASCVD in both the training and verification cohorts. DCA analysis confirmed the clinical utility of this prediction model. The constructed nomogram demonstrated significant additional prognostic utility for ASCVD, as evidenced by improvements in the C-index, net reclassification improvement, integrated discrimination improvement, and DCA compared with the overall ASCVD risk assessment.

Conclusion:

The developed longitudinal prediction model based on multimodal data can effectively predict ASCVD risk in individuals with an initial diagnosis of hypertension.

Trial registration

: The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2300074392).
Analysis of the ESCRS calculator's prediction accuracy
Authors: Sorkin Nir , Zadok Rotem , Totah Hashem , Savini Giacomo , Ribeiro Filomena , Findl Oliver , Buonsanti Dante , Raimundo Miguel , Abulafia Adi
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

To evaluate prediction accuracy of formulas included in the ESCRS online intraocular lens (IOL) calculator using standard keratometry (K) or total keratometry (TK).

Setting:

Hospital-based academic practice.

Design:

Retrospective case-series.

Methods:

523 patients with cataract (523 eyes) were included in this study. The outcome measures were trimmed means of the spherical equivalent prediction error (SEQ-PE, trueness), precision and absolute SEQ-PE (accuracy) of all 7 formulas available on the ESCRS online IOL calculator, as well as mean (Mean-All) and median (Median-All) of the predicted SEQ refraction of all formulas. Subgroup analyses evaluated the effect of axial length on formula accuracy.

Results:

Trimmed-mean SEQ-PE range of all formulas varied from −0.075 to +0.071 diopters (D) for K-based and from −0.003 to +0.147 D for TK-based calculations, with TK-based being more hyperopic in all formulas (P < .001). Precision ranged from 0.210 to 0.244 D for both K-based and TK-based calculations. Absolute SEQ-PE ranged from 0.211 to 0.239 D for K-based and from 0.218 to 0.255 D for TK-based calculations. All formulas, including Mean-All and Median-All, showed high accuracy, with 84% to 90% of eyes having SEQ-PEs within 0.50 D.

Myopic trimmed-mean SEQ-PEs significantly different from zero were observed in long eyes for Pearl DGS (−0.110 D, P = .005), Hill RBF (−0.120 D, P < .001), and Hoffer QST (−0.143 D, P = .001) and in short eyes for EVO 2.0 (−0.252 D, P = .001), Kane (−0.264 D, P = .001), Hoffer QST (−0.302 D, P < .001), Mean-All (−0.122 D, P = .038), and Median-All (−0.125 D, P = .043).

Conclusions:

Prediction accuracy of all ESCRS IOL calculator formulas was high and globally comparable. TK-based calculations did not increase prediction accuracy and tended toward hyperopia. Observations indicating formula superiority in long and short eyes merit further evaluation.
Triglyceride–glucose–alanine aminotransferase index: A noninvasive serum predictor for identifying the severity of pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Noh Eu-Seon , Hwang Il Tae
Published: June 2024

We hypothesized that the triglyceride–glucose (TyG)–alanine aminotransferase (ALT) index, which combines the TyG index with ALT, may enhance sensitivity and specificity in detecting the severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A total of 131 NAFLD patients with a mean age of 11.5 ± 2.29 years were enrolled, and severity was assessed by ultrasound fatty liver index (US-FLI) scoring. The TyG–ALT index was defined as ln(fasting triglyceride [mg/dL] × fasting glucose [mg/dL] × ALT [IU/L]/2). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant association between the TyG–ALT index and US-FLI (β = 0.317, P < .001) after controlling for sex, age, and body mass index. The TyG–ALT index showed a more stable and superior ability to detect the severity of NAFLD compared to both ALT and the TyG index. The area under the curve values, listed in the order of ALT, TyG index, and TyG–ALT index, were as follows: 0.737 (P < .001), 0.599 (P = .055), and 0.704 (P < .001) at US-FLI ≥ 4 points; 0.717 (P < .001), 0.720 (P < .001), and 0.775 (P < .001) at US-FLI ≥ 5 points; and 0.689 (P < .05), 0.748 (P < .01), and 0.775 (P < .001) at US-FLI ≥ 6 points. The TyG–ALT index is associated with US-FLI score and superior to both ALT and the TyG index in predicting NAFLD severity. These findings indicate the potential of the TyG–ALT index in the management of pediatric NAFLD progression.
Diet and risk for acute tubulointerstitial nephritis
Authors: Yang Yanjiang , Yang Wenwen
Published: June 2024

Uncertainty exists regarding the association between diet and acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. Dietary factors served as exposures, including intake of alcohol, beef, non-oily fish, fresh fruit, oily fish, dried fruit, coffee, salad/raw vegetable, cereal, tea, water, salt, cooked vegetable, cheese, poultry, pork, Lamb/mutton, bread, and processed meat were extracted from the UK Biobank. Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis served as the outcome extracted from the FinnGen biobank. The 3 main methods of this analysis were weighted median, inverse-variance-weighted (IVW), and MR-Egger methods. The heterogeneity was measured employing Cochran Q test. The MR-PRESSO method was employed to identify possible outliers. The robustness of the IVW method was evaluated by employing the leave-one-out analysis. According to the IVW method, processed meat intake (OR = 0.485; P = .00152), non-oily fish intake (OR = 0.396; P = .0454), oily fish intake (OR = 0.612; P = .00161), and dried fruit intake (OR = 0.536; P = .00648) reduced the risk of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. Other dietary factors were not shown to be causally related to acute tubulointerstitial nephritis. This study revealed that intake of processed meat, non-oily fish, oily fish, and dried fruit all decreased the risk of acute tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Cystatin C/albumin ratio for early diagnosis of esophageal varices in liver cirrhosis
Authors: Cheng Hui , Zhu Ying
Published: June 2024

The mortality rate related to variceal bleeding is high in patients with liver cirrhosis. Early detection and treatment of varices can reduce the risk of hemorrhage and thus decrease the mortality rate related to variceal bleeding. The study comprised 81 cirrhotic patients in training set, who were categorized into 2 groups: the patients with esophageal varices (EVs group) and the patients without esophageal varices (non-EVs group). The disparity in Cystatin C/albumin ratio (CAR) was assessed between these 2 groups. Subsequently, a regression model was constructed by generating a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to calculate the area under the curve (AUC). Then an external validation was performed in 25 patients. Among patients with cirrhosis in training set, a statistically significant difference in CAR was observed between the EVs group and non-EVs group (P < .05). At the CAR cutoff value of 2.79*10−5, the AUC for diagnosing EVs were 0.666. Further, a multivariate logistic regression model was constructed, after adjusting the model, the AUC for EVs diagnosis were 0.855. And the external validation showed that the model could not be considered as a poor fit. CAR exhibits potential as an early detection marker for EVs in liver cirrhosis, and the regression model incorporating CAR demonstrates a strong capability for early EVs diagnosis.
Clinical application of tranexamic acid in arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Huihu , Ouyang Yinghui , Chen Yali , Zeng Lin
Published: June 2024

Background:

To investigate whether intravenous administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) prior to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improves operative blood loss, postoperative fibrinolytic index, inflammatory response, and postoperative pain.

Methods:

This was a prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study. From January 2023 to February 2024, 64 patients who required arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were included and divided into tranexamic acid group (T group) group and control group (C group) according to the random number table method. In T group, 1000 mg TXA was administered intravenously 10 minutes before surgery, and an equivalent dose of normal saline was administered intravenously 10 minutes before surgery in C group. Intraoperative bleeding, postoperative fibrinolytic indexes, inflammatory indexes, pain scores, and occurrence of adverse effects were compared between the 2 groups.

Results:

Intraoperative bleeding in T group was lower than that in C group (P < .05); D-D and FDP in T group were significantly lower than those in C group (P < .05); postoperative TNF-α and IL-6 in 2 groups was higher than that before operation and T group was lower than C group (P < .05); The pain scores of the 2 groups after operation were lower than those before operation (P < .05), and there was no difference between the 2 groups (P > .05).

Conclusion subsections:

TXA is able to reduce blood loss and inflammatory reactions, modulate fibrinolytic function, and promote postoperative recovery in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, with no elevated risk of complications.
Research progress of ectopic thyroid cancer in thyroglossal duct cyst: A case report and literature review
Authors: Bu Fan , Yu Kai , Dong Bingfei , Wang Wenjun , Rong Li , Wang Jixue , Xue Shuai , Wan Fang , Yu Dandan , Lu Ji , Chen Guang
Published: June 2024

Rationale:

Thyroglossal duct carcinoma, a rare clinical condition characterized by ectopic thyroid adenocarcinoma within thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDCs), typically confirmed through intraoperative rapid pathology, this condition generally has a favorable prognosis. Nevertheless, comprehensive treatment guidelines across all disease stages are lacking, the purpose of this study is to report 1 case of the disease and propose the treatment plan for each stage of the disease.

Patient concerns:

A patient presented with thyroid swelling, classified as C-TIRADS 4A following a physical examination. Preoperative thyroid puncture identified papillary thyroid carcinoma, and genetic testing revealed a BRAF gene exon 15-point mutation. Ancillary tests showed a slightly decreased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) level (0.172) with no other significant abnormalities.

Diagnoses:

Preoperative fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) confirmed right-side thyroid cancer. Intraoperative exploration uncovered a TGDC and intraoperative rapid pathology confirmed thyroglossal duct carcinoma.

Interventions:

A Sistrunk operation and ipsilateral thyroidectomy were performed.

Outcomes:

Postoperative recovery was satisfactory.

Lessons:

Thyroglossal duct carcinoma is a rare disease affecting the neck. Due to limited clinical cases and the favorable prognosis associated with this condition, there is currently no established set of diagnostic and treatment guidelines. According to tumor size, lymph node metastasis, thyroid status and other factors, the corresponding treatment methods were established for each stage of thyroglossal duct cancer, which laid the foundation for the subsequent treatment development of this disease.
Effect of case management based on Omaha system on clinical symptoms and quality of life of coronary heart disease patients after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Wu Lili , Liu Xiaobu , Tang Xi , Qi Xiaogui , Song Jianlan , Huang Wanmin , You Tianhui , Mei Biqi , Xiong Haiyan
Published: June 2024

To investigate the effect of case management (CM) based on the Omaha system on clinical symptoms and quality of life (QOL) of coronary heart disease patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients with coronary heart disease after their first PCI in the People’s Hospital of Longhua in Shenzhen were randomly divided into a control group (received CM based on the Omaha system) and an observation group (received routine nursing) using a random number table. Nursing problems and the knowledge-behavior-status (KBS) score of patients were evaluated on the day after surgery, on the day before discharge, at 5 weeks after discharge, and at 12 weeks after discharge. The QOL of patients was evaluated using the coronary intervention coronary revascularization outcome questionnaire (CROQ-PTCA-Post, Chinese version) score on the day after surgery and at 12 weeks after discharge. A total of 104 patients completed the study (51 in the control group, 53 in the observation group). There were no significant differences in baseline data between the 2 groups (P gr.05). The main nursing problems were circulation, mental health, and pain in both groups on the day after surgery, whereas they were circulation, sleep and rest, and mental health after nursing. There were no significant differences in the KBS scores of the co-existing nursing problems on the day after surgery (P Th.05). The KBS scores of the co-existing nursing problems were significantly increased between the 2 groups (P < .01) on the day before discharge and at 5 weeks and 12 weeks after discharge. The KBS scores of the most co-existing nursing problems in the observation group were significantly higher at 12 weeks after discharge than at the day before discharge and at 5 weeks after discharge. Moreover, there were no significant differences in the CROQ-PTCA-Post scores on the first day after surgery between the 2 groups (P gr.05). These scores were significantly increased between the 2 groups at 12 weeks after discharge (P < .01). CM based on the Omaha system for patients after PCI can effectively improve the KBS scores and QOL of PCI patients with postoperative nursing problems, making this approach worthy of clinical promotion.
Causal associations between psoriasis, eczema, urticaria, and mental illness: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study of the European population
Authors: Mo Nian , Yang Yujie , Wang Wen , Zhou Panyu , Liu Fanlu , Zhang Yating , Zhang Junhong , Han Ling , Lu Chuanjian
Published: June 2024

Observational studies have reported a relationship between multiple common dermatoses and mental illness. To assess the potential bidirectional causality between 3 skin disorders (psoriasis, eczema, and urticaria) and 4 psychiatric disorders (bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and anxiety) in the European population, we used Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, which provides definitive evidence for causal inference. Eligible single nucleotide polymorphisms were screened for dermatological and psychiatric disorders using a genome-wide association study database. We conducted bidirectional, 2-sample MR analysis using instrumental variables related to psoriasis, eczema, and urticaria as exposure factors, and bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depression, and anxiety as outcomes. Reverse MR analysis with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, major depression, and anxiety as exposure and psoriasis, eczema, and urticaria as outcomes were also performed, and the causality was analyzed using inverse-variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median methods. To thoroughly assess causality, sensitivity analyses were conducted using the IVW, MR-PRESSO, and MR-Egger methods. The results showed that bipolar disorder increased the incidence of psoriasis (odds ratio = 1.271, 95% confidence interval = 1.003–1.612, P = .047), heterogeneity test with Cochran Q test in the IVW showed P value > .05, (P = .302), the MR-Pleiotropy and MR-PRESSO (outlier methods) in the multiplicity test showed P value > .05, (P = .694; P = .441), and MR-Pleiotropy evidence showed no apparent intercept (intercept = −0.060; SE = 0.139; P = .694). Major depression increased the risk of eczema (odds ratio = 1.002, 95% confidence interval = 1.000–1.004, P = .024), heterogeneity test showed P value > .05, (P = .328), multiplicity detection showed P value > .05, (P = .572; P = .340), and MR-Pleiotropy evidence showed no apparent intercept (intercept = −0.099; SE = 0.162; P = .572). Sensitivity analyses of the above results were reliable, and no heterogeneity or multiplicity was found. This study demonstrated a statistically significant causality between bipolar disorder and psoriasis, major depression, and eczema in a European population, which could provide important information for physicians in the clinical management of common skin conditions.
Physical activity and the osteoarthritis of the knee: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ma Xilong , Zhang Kai , Ma Chao , Zhang Yahui , Ma Jun
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have reported an association between physical activity and the occurrence and progression of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, the existing evidence remains limited and of low-quality. This study aimed to examine the causal relationship between different levels of physical activity and KOA. Instrumental variables, represented by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), were utilized to capture sedentary behavior, appropriate physical exercise, and excessive physical activity. Aggregated statistics from the UK Biobank genome-wide association study dataset were used to assess the impact of these SNPs on KOA. Causality was estimated using inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR Egger, simple model, weighted median, and weighted model approaches. The stability of the results was assessed through heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis revealed a strong association between sedentary behavior and KOA, with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.096 (95% CI: 1.506–2.917) and a P value of 1.14 × 10−5. Appropriate physical exercise behavior exhibited a strong negative association with KOA, with an OR of 0.147 (95% CI: 0.037–0.582) and a P value of 0.006. Conversely, excessive physical activity behavior showed a significant positive association with KOA, with an OR of 2.162 (95% CI: 1.327–3.521) and a P value of .002. Our findings indicate that sedentary behavior and excessive physical activity are identified as risk factors for KOA, whereas engaging in appropriate physical exercise emerges as a protective factor against the development of KOA.
Can local application of vancomycin reduce surgical site infection rate after open lumbar fusion surgery?: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huan Zhendong , Zhao Jijuan , Lei Linkai
Published: June 2024

Surgical site infection (SSI) after posterior open lumbar fusion (POLF) is a major concern for both surgeons and patients. We sought to explore whether local application of vancomycin could decrease the rate of SSI. We reviewed the clinical data of patients who underwent POLF between June 2015 and June 2022 at 3 spinal centers. Patients were divided into those who received local vancomycin (vancomycin group) and those who did not (non-vancomycin group). The SSI rates at 12 months postoperatively were compared between the 2 groups. Although a trend toward a lower infection rate was observed in the vancomycin group than in the non-vancomycin group; the difference was not statistically significant (3.6% vs 5.5%,P = .121). However, we found that the postoperative SSI rate was significantly lower in the vancomycin group than in the non-vancomycin group (4.9% vs 11.4%,P = .041) in patients ≥ 2 fused segments, while there was no significant difference in postoperative SSI rate in patients with single fusion segment (3.1% vs 3.6%,P = .706). The logistic regression analysis indicated that the SSI rate in the non-vancomycin group was approximately 2.498 times higher than that in the vancomycin group (P = .048, odds ratio: 2.498, 95% confidence interval: 1.011–6.617) in patients with ≥2 fused segments. In SSI patients with confirmed pathogens, the SSI rate of Gram-negative bacteria in the vancomycin group was significantly higher than that in the non-vancomycin group (10/14 [71.4%] vs 5/22 [31.8%]), whereas the SSI rate of Gram-positive bacteria in the vancomycin group was significantly lower than that in the non-vancomycin group (4/14 [28.6%] vs 15/22 [68.2%]). Local administration of vancomycin is recommended in patients with ≥2 fused segments as it may facilitate to reduce the postoperative rate of SSI after POLF. Additionally, the local use of vancomycin can decrease the Gram-positive bacterial infections but is not effective against Gram-negative infections, which indirectly leads to an increase in the proportion of Gram-negative infections in SSI patients with confirmed pathogens.
Prevalence, awareness, treatment, control of hypertension among adults inhabited in the coastal area of Tianjin, China
Authors: Wang Fenghua , Wei Maoti , Yang Ning , Wang Xiongguan
Published: June 2024

Hypertension has long been a worldwide health concern. Our aim was to investigate the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control rates of hypertension and analyze the factors related to hypertension among adult residents of the coastal areas of Tianjin, China. This was a cross-sectional study. Adults aged 35 to 75 years were selected for the study using cluster random sampling methods. Detailed information was collected via face-to-face surveys and medical checkups. We assessed the rates of hypertension in the total population and sub-populations and used multivariable logistic regression to identify the factors associated with the prevalence and the control of hypertension. In total, 6305 participants aged 55.22 ± 10.37 years were included in this study. Approximately 49.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 48.5%–51.1%) of the population had hypertension; the prevalence increased with age and body mass index (all P < .001). Multivariable logistic regression showed that the odds ratio of hypertension was 5.93 times more in participants aged 65 to 75 years than in those aged 35 to 44 (95% CI: 4.85–7.26, P < .001). The odds ratio of hypertension was 3.63 times more in obese participants than in those of normal weight (95% CI: 3.08–4.28, P < .001). Additionally, the awareness, treatment, control, and control under-treatment rates of hypertension were 89.7%, 83.6%, 54.4%, and 60.5%, respectively. Factors associated with having controlled hypertension included sex, body mass index, and dyslipidemia (all P < .01). Our study identified that in the coastal area of Tianjin, China, about half have hypertension, also the region has high rates of hypertension awareness, treatment and control, and more than half of hypertension patients receiving treatment have controlled hypertension.
Family-based genome-wide association analysis of novelty seeking in a Korean schizophrenic population: A pilot study
Authors: Kim Ji Hye , Lee Byung Dae , Park Je Min , Lee Young Min , Moon Eunsoo , Suh Hwagyu , Kim Kyungwon , Kim Yoo Jun , Lee Hyun Ji , Oh Ha Young
Published: June 2024

Schizophrenia (SPR) is the most devastating mental illness that causes severe deterioration in social and occupational functioning, but, the etiology remains unknown. The objective of this study is to explore the genetic underpinnings of novelty seeking behavior in schizophrenic family within the Korean population. By conducting a family-based genome-wide association study, we aim to identify potential genetic markers and variations associated with novelty seeking traits in the context of SPR. We have recruited 27 probands (with SPR) with their parents and siblings whenever possible. DNA was extracted from blood sampling of 58 individuals in 27 families and analyzed in an Illumina core exome single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. A family-based association test (qFAM) was used to derive SNP association values across all chromosomes. Although none of the final 800,000 SNPs reached the genome-wide significant threshold of 8.45 × 10−7, the most significant 4 SNPs were within the 10–5 to 10–7. This study identifies genetic associations between novelty seeking behavior and SPR within families. RAPGEF5 emerges as a significant gene, along with other neuropsychiatric-related genes. Noteworthy genes like DRD4 and COMT did not show associations, possibly due to the focus on schizophrenic family. While shedding light on this complex relationship, larger studies are needed for robust conclusions and deeper mechanistic insights.
Evaluation of clinical effectiveness of blood stasis leaflet in patients with blood stasis: A prospective, randomized, and crossover trial
Authors: Kang Geonhui , Kim Cheol-Hyun , Ko Mi Mi , Jung Jeeyoun
Published: June 2024

Background:

Blood stasis (BS) refers to a pattern of symptoms resulting from circulatory dysfunction or stagnation in the human body. Due to its historical origin and diverse interpretations, communication between patients and doctors of traditional Korean medicine (DKMs) presents challenges. Efforts to improve patients understanding in traditional Korean medicine (TKM) have led to the development of disease-specific standard clinical practice guidelines. However, there is a limited focus on creating clinical practice guidelines or informative leaflet specifically addressing BS, which is a frequently encountered pattern of symptoms in TKM.

Methods:

This study aimed to bridge the gap between patients and DKMs by developing an informative leaflet focusing on BS for metabolic diseases. We assessed its appropriateness through expert advisory meetings and the Delphi process, and evaluated its clinical effectiveness. We conducted a prospective, randomized, crossover trial to compare the clinical effectiveness of using BS leaflets in TKM treatment. The hypothesis investigated whether the leaflet group would show higher scores in satisfaction of DKMs’ explanations, understanding of DKMs’ explanations, improving the reliability of TKM, satisfaction with treatment time, improvement in explanations compared to previous TKM experiences, and necessity of managing BS treatment, compared to the no-leaflet group.

Results:

In a study involving 40 patients (mean age: 62.3 ± 7.8 years), symptoms persisted for an average of 16.75 ± 9.3 hours daily, with a severity rating of 2.53. The leaflet group exhibited significantly higher satisfaction scores than the no-leaflet group in all aspects (all P < .0001). After confirming the absence of sequence and period effects using a linear-mixed effect model, we were able to ascertain the presence of a treatment effect, as evidenced by statistically significant higher scores across all survey items in the leaflet group compared to the no-leaflet group (all P < .0001).

Conclusion:

Expert consensus on symptoms aligning with the BS pattern resulted in the development of an informative leaflet. Its utilization notably improved patient satisfaction, comprehension, and trust in TKM treatment, unaffected by temporal influences, thus demonstrating its clinical effectiveness. In summary, the BS leaflet significantly enhanced patient understanding and optimized treatment procedures.
Understanding and predicting pregnancy termination in Bangladesh: A comprehensive analysis using a hybrid machine learning approach
Authors: Rahman Riaz , Talukder Ashis , Das Shatabdi , Saha Joy , Sarma Haribondhu
Published: June 2024

Reproductive health issues, including unsafe pregnancy termination, remain a significant concern for women in developing nations. This study focused on investigating and predicting pregnancy termination in Bangladesh by employing a hybrid machine learning approach. The analysis used data from the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 2011, 2014, and 2017 to 2018. Ten independent variables, encompassing factors such as age, residence, division, wealth index, working status, BMI, total number of children ever born, recent births, and number of living children, were examined for their potential associations with pregnancy termination. The dataset undergoes preprocessing, addressing missing values and balancing class distributions. To predict pregnancy termination, 8 classical machine learning models and hybrid models were used in this study. The models’ performance was evaluated based on the area under the curve, precision, recall, and F1 score. The results highlighted the effectiveness of the hybrid models, particularly the Voting hybrid model (area under the curve: 91.97; precision: 84.14; recall: 83.87; F1 score: 83.84), in accurately predicting pregnancy termination. Notable predictors include age, division, and wealth index. These findings hold significance for policy interventions aiming to reduce pregnancy termination rates, emphasizing the necessity for tailored approaches that consider regional disparities and socioeconomic factors. Overall, the study demonstrates the efficacy of hybrid machine learning models in comprehending and forecasting pregnancy termination, offering valuable insights for reproductive health initiatives in Bangladesh and similar contexts.
The causal relationship of serum uric acid on colorectal cancer: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lee Miseon , Nam Seungyoon
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant public health issue owing to its widespread occurrence and substantial morbidity and mortality rates. Recent studies have highlighted serum uric acid (SUA) level as a probable risk factor for CRC; however, the inconsistency in these findings has created doubt. We performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) study utilizing extensive cohort data from the UK BioBank and the NHGRI-EBI Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) Catalog to investigate the causal connection between SUA levels and CRC incidence. Our MR study addresses the constraints of earlier studies, including limited sample sizes and inconsistent results. Considering SUA levels as the exposure and CRC as the outcome, the inverse variance-weighted (IVW) approach in MR showed that the odds ratios (ORs) for CRC for each unit increase in SUA were 0.232 (95% confidence interval [CI] of OR 0.094–0.570; P = .001) and 0.551 (95% CI of OR 0.325–0.934; P = .027). Pleiotropic tests and sensitivity analysis confirmed minimal horizontal pleiotropy and the robustness of causality. Our research deepens the understanding of the association between SUA levels and CRC, offering insights into prevention strategies and patient outcomes prediction.
Relationship between leadership and work readiness in a cohort of new head nurses in China: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Fu Lulu , Xie Yixuan , Zhang Chuanying , Zhu Yu , Wei Wei , Wang Yue
Published: June 2024

To identify the relationship between leadership and work readiness in a cohort of new head nurses in China. This cross-sectional study enrolled 225 newly appointed head nurses in public tertiary hospitals in China, which were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using online questionnaires that included a sociodemographic characteristics form, the Nursing Managers Leadership Scale (NMLS), and the New Nurse Leaders’ Job Readiness Scale (NNLJRS). IBM SPSS v.25 was used for statistical analysis. The overall mean scores of NMLS (100.50 ± 17.64) and NNLJRS (111.90 ± 15.84) of the 225 new nurse leaders were at moderate levels. The results of the Pearson correlation analysis and the hierarchical regression analysis further indicated that there was a significant positive correlation between leadership and work readiness of new head nurses (r = 0.85, P < .001), as well as charisma (β = 0.19, P < .01), affinity (β = 0.18, P < .01), coordination ability (β = 0.32, P < .01), and motivational ability (β = 0.21, P < .01) in leadership were found to be positively associated with work readiness. This study found that the leadership and work readiness of the new head nurses still needed improvement. A significant relationship was found between these 2 variables, and charisma, affinity, coordination ability, and motivational ability in the leadership ability of the new head nurses facilitated the level of work readiness. Nursing administration should create a leadership development series program focusing on the development of charisma, affinity, coordination ability, and motivational ability to support the work readiness of new nurse managers and help them with role transition.
Causal relationship between endometrial cancer and risk of breast cancer: A 2-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Ye , Zhu Lichao , Guo Lei , Zhao Jianhai , Li Jiang , Li Wenying , Li Ziyun , Chen Shuai , Zheng Jiapeng , Zhao Yating
Published: June 2024

Several studies have confirmed the important role of endometrial cancer (EC) in the development and progression of breast cancer (BC), and this study will explore the causal relationship between EC and BC by 2-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. Pooled data from published genome-wide association studies were used to assess the association between EC and BC risk in women using 5 methods, namely, inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median (WME), simple multimaximetry (SM) and weighted multimaximetry (WM) with the EC-associated genetic loci as the instrumental variables (IV) and sensitivity analyses were used to assess the robustness of the results. The statistical results showed a causal association between EC and BC (IVW: OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.01–1.32, P = .02; MR-Egger: OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 0.71–1.51, P = .11; weighted median: OR = 1.05, 95% CI = 0.97–1.31, P = .19; simple plurality method: OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.81–1.15, P = .78; weighted plurality method: OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.81–1.14, P = .75), and the results of the sensitivity analyses showed that there was no significant heterogeneity or multiplicity, and the results were stable. EC is associated with an increased risk of developing BC. The results of this MR analysis can be used as a guideline for screening for BC in women with EC and to help raise awareness of screening for early detection and treatment.