bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term survival after surgical resection for bone metastasis from pancreatic cancer: A case report
Authors: Hayashi Koki , Kitago Minoru , Abe Yuta , Yagi Hiroshi , Hasegawa Yasushi , Hori Shutaro , Tanaka Masayuki , Nakano Yutaka , Asakura Keisuke , Masugi Yohei , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is highly malignant and metastatic; however, bone metastases are rare. Although the effectiveness of conversion surgery for distant metastases of PC has been reported in a few cases, there are no reports on surgical resection for bone metastases. Here, we report a case of long-term survival after resection of bone metastasis from PC.

Patient concerns:

A 60-year-old woman underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for pancreatic head cancer. At 28 months after surgery, multiple lung metastases from PC were diagnosed, and chemotherapy was administered. After 59 months, chemotherapy was terminated because all target lesions had disappeared on imaging.

Diagnosis:

At 77 months after the initial surgery, bone metastasis in the left 9th rib was detected by positron emission tomography/computed tomography, which was performed due to elevated carbohydrate antigen 19-9 levels.

Interventions:

Chemotherapy was readministered as the initial treatment. Subsequently, due to the long-term well-controlled status of the recurrence site and the absence of other metastases, thoracoscopic-assisted partial resection of the left 9th rib was performed 128 months following pancreaticoduodenectomy. Pathological examination revealed adenocarcinoma metastasis from PC.

Outcomes:

The patient is currently alive without recurrence 44 months after resection for bone metastasis and 172 months after the initial surgery.

Conclusion:

Surgical resection may be favorable in patients with bone metastasis of PC that is well-controlled with chemotherapy.
Natural products for the treatment of depression: Insights into signal pathways influencing the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis
Authors: Liu Jiawen , Meng Tianwei , Wang Chaojie , Cheng Weiping , Zhang Qi , Cheng Guangyu
Published: November 2023

Depression, a prevalent psychiatric malady, afflicts a substantial global demographic, engendering considerable disease burden due to its elevated morbidity and mortality rates. Contemporary therapeutic approaches for depression encompass the administration of serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants, albeit these pharmaceuticals potentially induce adverse neurological and gastrointestinal effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) natural products proffer the benefits of multi-target, multi-level, and multi-channel depression treatment modalities. In this investigation, we conducted a comprehensive literature review of the past 5 years in PubMed and other databases utilizing the search terms “Depression,” “Natural medicines,” “Traditional Chinese Medicine,” and “hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis.” We delineated the 5 most recent and pertinent signaling pathways associated with depression and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation: nuclear factor kappa light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, cyclic AMP/protein kinase A, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B. Additionally, we deliberated the antidepressant mechanisms of natural medicines comprising alkaloids, flavonoids, polyphenols, saponins, and quinones via diverse pathways. This research endeavor endeavored to encapsulate and synthesize the progression of TCMs in modulating HPA axis-associated signaling pathways to mitigate depression, thereby furnishing robust evidence for ensuing research in this domain.
Exploring the potential mechanism of Kaixinsan powder for the same pathogenesis of PTSD and anxiety based on network pharmacology and molecular docking: A review
Authors: Li Wen-Wei , Wang Jia , Wu Han-Biao , Qiu Zhi-Kun
Published: November 2023

Background:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety are common mental illnesses and there are many similar pathogenesis and clinical manifestations between PTSD and anxiety. Kaixinsan powder (KXS), a commonly used prescription in traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely used to treat PTSD and anxiety. This study aims to explore the potential mechanisms of KXS for the same pathogenesis of PTSD and anxiety using a network pharmacology approach.

Methods:

The bioactive components and relevant target genes of KXS were obtained from the database about Traditional Chinese Medicine. The key genes of PTSD and anxiety were derived from disease databases. Subsequently, the network of protein–protein interaction and a network of “drug-components-disease-targets” was constructed. In order to treat PTSD and anxiety, gene ontology enrichment and signaling pathway enrichment were analyzed by using R language and components-core targets associated were validated by molecular docking.

Results:

One hundred three targets of KXS in treating PTSD and anxiety were identified. The results of protein–protein interaction analysis and molecular docking indicated that AKT1 and IL-6 were crucial targets. Moreover, KEGG analysis has shown that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium signaling pathway, and cAMP signaling pathway may play crucial roles in treating PTSD and anxiety. Ten biological process, 10 molecular function, and 10 cellular component were revealed via gene ontology analysis.

Conclusions:

The network pharmacology study and molecular docking indicated that KXS treated anxiety and PTSD by multiple components, targets, and signaling pathways. These results provide an important reference for subsequent basic research on PTSD and anxiety.
The role of JAK/STAT signaling pathway in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and the therapeutic effect of traditional Chinese medicine: A narrative review
Authors: Song Tianzhi , Zhang Yishu , Zhu Liangrong , Zhang Yuyan , Song Jingmei
Published: November 2023

Cerebral ischemia is a cerebrovascular disease with symptoms caused by insufficient blood or oxygen supply to the brain. When blood supplied is restored after cerebral ischemia, secondary brain injury may occur, which is called cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). In this process, the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling pathway plays an important role. It mediates neuroinflammation and participates in the regulation of physiological activities, such as cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. After CIRI, M1 microglia is activated and recruited by the damaged tissue. The inflammatory factors are produced by M1 microglia through the JAK/STAT pathway, eventually leading to cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway and the expression of lipocalin-2 and caspase-3 could increase. In the pathway, phosphorylated JAK2 and phosphorylated STAT3 function of 2 ways. They not only promote the proliferation of neurons, but also affect the differentiation direction of neural stem cells by further acting on the Notch signaling pathway. Recently, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is a key player in CIRI, through JAK2, STAT3, STAT1 and their phosphorylation. Therefore, the review focuses on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway and its relationship with CIRI as well as the influence of the TCM on this pathway. It is aimed at providing the basis for future clinical research on the molecular mechanism of TCM in the treatment of CIRI.
High-risk HPV-associated ovarian squamous cell carcinoma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Li Jianqi
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

Ovarian squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is an exceedingly rare subtype, and high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-related OSCC is even rarer.

Patient concerns:

An 8-cm diameter ovarian cyst was detected during a routine B-ultrasound examination, and the patient underwent laparoscopic surgery. Postoperative pathological examination revealed HPV-16-related OSCC involving adjacent uterine tissue. The patient received postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Diagnoses:

High-risk HPV-related OSCC.

Interventions:

No.

Outcomes:

The patient was finally diagnosed with high-risk HPV-related OSCC and underwent surgical treatment.

Lessons subsections:

In patients with high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia who have undergone cervical conization and maintained annual HPV negativity, the possibility of high-risk HPV-related OSCC should be considered, despite its extreme rarity. Vigilance is essential in the presence of ovarian cysts even after HPV clearance.
Ophthalmic findings in Cohen syndrome patient without subjective ophthalmic complaints: A case report
Authors: Kim Do Ah , Kim Joonhyung
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

Cohen syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can cause various symptoms, including ophthalmic manifestations that can significantly impact a patient’s visual health and quality of life.

Patient concerns:

We present the case of a 12-year-old boy diagnosed with Cohen syndrome who exhibited retinal degeneration and macular edema but could not express ophthalmic symptoms due to a developmental disability.

Diagnoses:

The patient was diagnosed with Cohen syndrome by a heterozygous mutation in the VPS13B gene by whole exome sequencing and referred to ophthalmology for an ophthalmic examination.

Intervention:

Ophthalmologic tests, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography, were performed.

Outcomes:

Visual acuity and intraocular pressure were not measured due to poor cooperation, and no abnormal findings were observed on the slit lamp examination. However, peripheral retinal degeneration was observed in the fundus examination, and cystoid macular edema was observed in both eyes on optical coherence tomography.

Lessons:

Regular ophthalmologic examination is important for patients with Cohen syndrome, especially those with developmental disabilities who may not be able to express their symptoms. Clinicians should be aware of the potential ophthalmologic manifestations of Cohen syndrome and the importance of timely diagnosis and management.
Acupuncture combined with Tuina in the treatment of cervical longus tendinitis: A case report
Authors: Guo Meng , Zhang Min , Guo Xiaole , Wang Hongfeng , Li Hui
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Cervical longus tendonitis is a type of disease with neck pain as the main clinical manifestation. Because the front of the cervical longus muscle is adjacent to the esophagus and pharynx, this disease is often accompanied by pharyngeal pain and pain when swallowing. Clinical and imaging doctors often have an incomplete understanding of it, and this disease is often confused with other diseases that cause neck pain.

Patient concerns:

A 33-year-old Chinese woman was the patient. Suffering from severe neck pain and significantly limited activity, accompanied by left shoulder pain, occasionally dizziness, headache and other symptoms, the pain is significantly aggravated when doing swallowing action.

Diagnosis:

Tendonitis of the long neck muscle.

Interventions:

Given the patient’s condition, we used acupuncture combined with massage therapy as a symptomatic treatment.

Outcomes:

After 10 days of treatment, the symptoms were better than before, and no pain was seen in the swallowing movements such as drinking water (Fig. 2C and D).

Lessons:

Because the clinical reports of diseases are rare, the treatment methods are limited, and acupuncture combined with massage is an effective method for the treatment of tendonitis of the cervical long muscle, to dredge the meridians, promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis and relieving pain.
Multiple-microarray analysis for identification of key genes involved in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Bi Hui , Ma Liang , Zhong Xu , Long Gang
Published: November 2023

The purpose of our study was to discover genes with significantly aberrant expression in diabetic nephropathy (DN) and to determine their potential mechanism. We acquired renal tubules, glomerulus and blood samples data from DN patients and controls from the GEO database. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in renal tubules, glomerulus and blood samples between DN patients and controls were studied. Based on these DEGs, we carried out the functional annotation and constructed protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. By comparing DN patients and controls of DEGs, we acquired the shared DGEs in renal tubules, glomerulus and blood samples of DN patients and controls. DN patients compared to controls, we obtained 3000 DEGs, 3064 DEGs, and 2296 DEGs in renal tubules, glomerulus and blood samples, respectively. The PPI networks of top 40 DEGs in renal tubules, glomerulus and blood samples was consisted of 229 nodes and 229 edges, 540 nodes and 606 edges, and 132 nodes and 124 edges, respectively. In total, 21 shared genes were finally found, including CASP3, DHCR24, CXCL1, GYPC, INHBA, LTF, MT1G, MUC1, NINJ1, PFKFB3, PPP1R3C, CCL5, SRSF7, PHLDA2, RBM39, WTAP, BASP1, PLK2, PDK2, PNPLA4, and SNED1. These genes may be associated with the DN process. Our study provides a basis to explore the potential mechanism and identify novel therapeutic targets for DN.
Integrated analysis of potential biomarkers associated with diabetic periodontitis development based on bioinformatics: An observational study
Authors: Wu Yiran , Xing Yong-Hu , Tao Shuai , Jiao Min , Zhu Min , Han Ya-Ting , Guo Wei , Tao Xiu-Bin
Published: November 2023

Based on the importance of chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of periodontitis and diabetes, the bidirectional relationship between these 2 diseases has been widely confirmed. However, the molecular mechanisms of bidirectional relationship still need to be studied further. In this study, gene expression profile data for diabetes and periodontitis were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Integrative analytical platform were constructed, including common differentially expressed genes (cDEGs), Gene Ontology-Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (GO-KEGG), and protein–protein interaction. Hub genes and essential modules were detected via Cytoscape. Key hub genes and signaling pathway that mediate chronic inflammation were validated by qPCR and Western blot. Eleven cDEGs were identified. Function analysis showed that cDEGs plays an important role in inflammatory response, cytokine receptor binding, TNF signaling pathway. As hub genes, CXCR4, IL1B, IL6, CXCL2, and MMP9 were detected based on the protein–protein interactions network. IL1B, CXCR4 mRNA were up-regulated in gingivitis samples compared with normal tissues (P < .05). Western blot indicated that the levels of TNF were enhanced in gingivitis of type 2 diabetes compared with normal tissues (P < .01). Hub gene and TNF signaling pathway are helpful to elucidate the molecular mechanism of the bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and diabetes.
CALM3 affects the prognosis of leukemia and hemorrhoids
Authors: He Jie , Ni Zhijie , Li Zhongbo
Published: November 2023

Leukemia is an abnormal proliferation of white blood cells in the bone marrow, resulting in a large accumulation of abnormal leukemia cells in the blood and bone marrow. Hemorrhoids are dilated and swollen veins in the rectum or anal area. However, the relationship between CALM3 and leukemia and hemorrhoids remains unclear. The hemorrhoids dataset GSE154650 and leukemia dataset GSE26294 were downloaded from GEO databases generated by GPL20301 and GPL571.The R package limma was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEDs). Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was performed. The construction and analysis of protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, functional enrichment analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and comparative toxicogenomics database (CTD) analysis were performed. TargetScan was used to screen miRNAs regulating central DEGs. It was verified by western blot basic cell assay. A total of 125 DEGs were co-identified. According to the GO analysis, they are mainly enriched in small molecule catabolic processes, skin development, and chemokine receptor binding. The KEGG analysis results show that the target cells are mainly enriched in the interaction of cytokines and cytokine receptors, as well as butyric acid metabolism. The GSEA analysis results indicate enrichment in small molecule catabolic processes, skin development, and chemokine receptor binding. Six core genes (CALM3, ACE2, PPARGC1A, XCR1, CFTR, PRKCA) were identified. We found that the core gene CALM3 is highly expressed in hemorrhoid samples, low in leukemia samples, and has low expression in normal samples, which may play a regulatory role in hemorrhoids and leukemia. Immunoinfiltration results showed a higher proportion of T_cells_CD4_memory_resting and a correlation with T_cells_CD8. WB experiment verified the result. CALM3 expression is low in leukemia, and the lower the expression is, the worse the prognosis is. CALM3 is highly expressed in hemorrhoids, and the higher the expression, the worse the prognosis.
Screening and identification of hub genes of scar physique via weighted gene co-expression network analysis
Authors: Ma Shuxian , Li Xuze , Wu Wenhao , Zhang Pei , Yang Yanjie , Huang Lining , Wan Qian
Published: November 2023

Scar physique refers to the abnormal repair of skin injury in some people, which may easily lead to keloid or hypertrophic scar. However, the mechanism of scar physique is still unclear. GSE108110 was obtained from the gene expression omnibus database. Differently expression genes (DEGs) between normal skin tissue of non-scar physique individuals and normal skin tissue of scar physique individuals were screened by R package “limma”. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis was performed to find highly relevant gene modules. Functional annotation of DEGs was made. Protein-protein interaction network was constructed, and the identification and analysis of hub DEGs were performed, including identification of hub DEGs associated with scar diseases, MiRNA of hub DEGs prediction, and functional annotation of miRNA. A total of 1389 up-regulate DEGs and 1672 down-regulate DEGs were screened. weighted gene co-expression network analysis analysis showed that the dendrogram and heatmap were used to quantify module similarity by correlation. The associations between clinic traits and the modules were identified based on the correlation between module and scar physique. Eight common hub genes were obtained. The comparative toxicogenomics database shows common hub genes associated with scar tissue. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes analysis were significantly enriched in “fibroblast growth factor receptor signaling pathway”, “epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway”, “G1/S transition of mitotic cell cycle”, protein polyubiquitination”, and others. The 8 hub genes might be involved in the development of scarring and used as early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of scar physique.
Idiopathic subglottic stenosis with an inguinal hernia in children: A case report
Authors: Liang Sai , Wang Ji , Song Kai , Yu Ming , Gong Zhengpeng
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis is a fibrotic condition of unknown origin that results in blockage of the central airway in the subglottic region. It is widely acknowledged that subglottic stenosis is a relatively uncommon structural anomaly that is difficult to operate on and cure due to its anatomical location. Inguinal hernias are well-established to be prevalent in infants and youngsters. We present a case of subglottic stenosis in a child complicated with an inguinal hernia (IH).

Patient concerns:

A 7-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with a 1-month history of progressive bulging in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen. She complained of no stomach discomfort, distension, or dyspnea, but her family reports that the patient usually wheezes during moderate exertion and has no family history of asthma or lung illness. However, for unclear reasons, the infant experienced shortness of breath following training. A chest CT scan was unremarkable. Below the glottis, a membranous stenosis was discovered. The stenosis beneath the glottis was discovered using dynamic laryngoscopy.

Diagnoses:

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis with an IH.

Interventions:

An otorhinolaryngologist employed a carbon dioxide laser to eliminate the subglottic stenosis. Following successful intubation by the anesthesiologist, pediatric surgeons performed laparoscopic high ligation of the hernial sac.

Outcomes:

After 1 month, a repeat laryngoscopy revealed significant expansion of the subglottic stenosis, accounting for the improvement in respiratory symptoms.

Lessons:

The present case raises awareness that surgeons should be more vigilant about respiratory complications in patients with an IH. Early diagnosis and treatment of respiratory illnesses are critical for patients undergoing endotracheal intubation.
Actinobacillus ureae may be a critical pathogen in patients with predispositions: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Yang Qian , Zhong Qiong , Wu Bo , Xu XiaoDu , Li WeiMin , Zhao BoHao , Luo Min , Zhu XingHua , Ye Dan , Huang YanChun
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

Actinobacillus ureae (A. ureae) is an unusual commensal of human respiratory flora, rarely causing human infection. The predisposing factors, identification, clinical features, and antibiotic therapy of A. ureae are seldomly reported. Herein, we present a case of 64-year-old man affected by A. ureae pneumonia after intracranial surgery.

Patient concerns and diagnoses:

A 64-year-old male was admitted with vomiting, drowsiness, and a severe disturbance of consciousness and was later diagnosed with cerebral hemorrhage by computed tomography images. After a craniocerebral surgery, the patient suffered from intractable pneumonia, experiencing treatment failure with multiple anti-bacterial agents. Sputum culture yield pure colonies of A. ureae, confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight and 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Interventions:

Minocycline (100 mg p.o. per 12 hours) with a course of 15 days was administrated for this patient.

Outcomes:

The respiratory symptoms, presenting as intermittent coughing with purulent and yellowish sputum, were gone. A 3-month follow-up examination showed a complete resolution of radiological findings.

Lessons:

Clinically, the actual incidence of A. ureae pneumonia may be higher than that we generally recognized, and clinicians should consider A. ureae as a possible etiologic agent in patients with predispositions. Currently, A. ureae may be susceptible to penicillin, ampicillin, and third-generation cephalosporins. Other antibacterial agents, such as tetracycline, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, and aminoglycosides also respond well and can be a choice in the treatment of A. ureae infections.
Risk of myocardial infarction, heart failure, and cerebrovascular disease with the use of valsartan, losartan, irbesartan, and telmisartan in patients
Authors: Yoo Yung-Geun , Lim Min-Jung , Kim Jin-Seob , Jeong Han-Eol , Ko HeeJoo , Shin Ju-Young
Published: November 2023

There is a lack of studies comparing the risk of cardio-cerebrovascular disease between angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) of different half-lives. We aimed to compare the risks of myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure (HF), and cerebrovascular disease with the use of valsartan, losartan, irbesartan, and telmisartan with different half-lives in a national claim-based retrospective cohort of patients aged ≥ 40 years with hypertension. To establish a cohort exposed to valsartan, losartan, irbesartan, or telmisartan, we performed propensity score (PS) matching and used an as-treated approach to evaluate exposure. The Cox regression model was employed to calculate hazard ratios, which were based on the incidence rate for each newly occurring event of MI, heart failure, or cerebrovascular disease. These hazard ratios were calculated to compare the risk of MI, heart failure, and cerebrovascular disease associated with valsartan, losartan, and irbesartan in comparison to telmisartan. A PS-matched cohort of 148,229 patients was established for each of valsartan, losartan, irbesartan, or telmisartan. The matched cohort analysis showed that the adjusted hazard ratio (aHRs, 95% confidence interval) for MI was higher for valsartan use (1.39, 1.33–1.45) and losartan use (1.10, 1.05–1.15) but lower for irbesartan use (0.90, 0.86–0.94) compared with the reference (telmisartan). The aHRs for HF were not different among these ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers). The aHR for cerebrovascular disease was lower for valsartan use (0.85, 0.83–0.87) and losartan use (0.80, 0.78–0.82) but higher for irbesartan use (1.11, 1.09–1.13) compared with the reference. We found differences in the risk of MI and cerebrovascular disease with the use of different ARBs compared to telmisartan use. Valsartan, and losartan with a short half-life, which showed a higher risk of MI, had a lower risk of cerebrovascular disease. Conversely, irbesartan with a long half-life, which showed a lower risk of MI, had a higher risk of cerebrovascular disease.
Aging of reward dopamine tracts in the human brain: A diffusion tensor imaging study
Authors: Seo Jeong Pyo , Ryu Heun Jae
Published: November 2023

The mesocortical tract (MCT) and mesolimbic tract (MLT) are reward dopaminergic tracts that have been shown to play a role in regulating reward stimuli, including both incentive salience and social stimuli. In the current study, we examined aging of the MCT and MLT in normal human participants to explain human brain structures using diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). Sixty-four healthy participants were recruited for this study and allocated to 3 groups based on participants’ age. Diffusion tensor imaging was performed, and MCTs and MLTs were reconstructed using the probabilistic tractography method. A significant negative correlation was observed between age and fractional anisotropy and tract volume of the MCT and MLT, whereas a positive correlation was observed between age and mean diffusivity. The mean fractional anisotropy value of the MCT was significantly lower in the old group than in the young and middle-aged groups (P < .05). The mean diffusivity values of the MCT and MLT were significantly higher in the old group than in the young and middle-aged groups (P < .05). The mean tract volume values of the MCT and MLT were significantly lower in the old group than in the young group (P < .05). We found that degenerative changes in the MCT and MLT began in participants in the 20s–30s, progressed steadily throughout life, and accelerated in the 60s.
Glucocorticoid impact therapy for recurrent IgG4-related disease with diabetes insipidus as the main manifestation: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yu Yongzhuo , Xu Lili , Wang Yunyang , Li Wenxuan , Wang Yangang
Published: November 2023

Rationale:

There is a relative wealth of experience in the initial treatment of IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD), but little is known about therapeutic measures for recurrent cases combined with multiple organ and tissue involvement.

Patient concerns:

A 43-year-old man with a previous diagnosis of IgG4-RD due to recurrent right lacrimal gland enlargement with eyelid erythema presented with diabetes insipidus

Diagnoses:

We performed a pituitary Magnetic Resonance Imaging which revealed posterior pituitary rim changes with inhomogeneous enhancement and nodular-like thickening of the pituitary stalk, and performed a water-deprivation-vasopressin test confirmed central diabetes insipidus, and in combination with the patient’s elevated IgG4 levels and past medical conditions, we diagnosed central diabetes insipidus, IgG4-related hypophysitis, and IgG4-RD.

Interventions:

After the patient was admitted to the hospital we gave methylprednisolone 500 mg intravenously once daily for 4 days and again for 4 consecutive days after a 10-day interval. During this period combined with mycophenolate mofetil 250 mg twice daily and desmopressin acetate 0.1 mg 3 times daily.

Outcomes:

The patient was followed up for a sustained period of 6 months and no side effects of glucocorticoid therapy were noted, there were no signs of recurrence, and the daily urine output stabilized in the normal range.

Lessons:

We recognized that IgG4 levels do not reflect relapse or long-term control, and that glucocorticoid shock therapy is an optional and reliable treatment strategy for relapsed patients.
Suboptimal hepatobiliary phase image in gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI for the evaluation of the HCC: Predictive factors
Authors: Ryeom Hunkyu , Chang Yongmin , Park Seo-Young , Cho Seung-Hyun , Yeo Bokdong , Je Hwanju , Baek John
Published: November 2023

To determine the relevant laboratory values for hepatobiliary phase (HBP) imaging and predictive factors for suboptimal HBP images on gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the evaluation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). This study included 307 patients with CLD who underwent gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI for HCC evaluation. The liver-portal vein contrast ratio and liver-spleen contrast ratio were calculated from the measurements of the HBP images. In this study, a suboptimal HBP image was defined as the presence of a bright portal vein or a liver-spleen contrast ratio of <1.5. Correlation, comparison, and receiver operating characteristic analyses were performed between the measured parameters on the HBP images and hepatic and renal function tests. The estimated glomerular filtration rate did not correlate with any measured or calculated values on the HBP images. On receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal cutoff value for the bright portal vein was an albumin level of 4.05 g/dL (area under the curve, 0.971; sensitivity, 65%; specificity, 82%). The optimal cutoff value of the suboptimal HBP image was a serum direct bilirubin level of 0.83 mg/dL (area under the curve, 0.830; sensitivity, 69%; specificity, 84%). On gadoxetic acid-enhanced MRI for the evaluation of HCC in patients with CLD, suboptimal HBP images were most strongly correlated with serum direct bilirubin levels. Renal function was not associated with suboptimal HBP imaging. Although the sensitivity is low, suboptimal HBP images can be predicted before gadoxetic acid-enhanced liver MRI can be performed.
Trans-Spinal Direct Current Stimulation in Neurological Disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Fernández-Pérez Juan José , Serrano-Muñoz Diego , Beltran-Alacreu Hector , Avendaño-Coy Juan , Gómez-Soriano Julio
Published: November 2023

Background and Purpose:

Trans-spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) is a noninvasive stimulation technique that applies direct current stimulation over spinal levels. However, the effectiveness and feasibility of this stimulation are still unclear. This systematic review summarizes the effectiveness of tsDCS in clinical and neurophysiological outcomes in neurological patients, as well as its feasibility and safety.

Methods:

The search was conducted using the following databases: PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and PubMed. The inclusion criteria were: Participants: people with central nervous system diseases; Interventions: tsDCS alone or in combination with locomotion training; Comparators: sham tsDCS, transcranial direct current stimulation, or locomotion training; Outcomes: clinical and neurophysiological measures; and Studies: randomized clinical trials.

Results:

Eight studies with a total of 143 subjects were included. Anodal tsDCS led to a reduction in hypertonia, neuropathic pain intensity, and balance deficits in people with hereditary spastic paraplegia, multiple sclerosis, and primary orthostatic tremor, respectively. In contrast, cathodal tsDCS only had positive effects on balance and tremor in people with primary orthostatic tremor. No severe adverse effects were reported during and after anodal or cathodal tsDCS.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Although certain studies have found an effect of anodal tsDCS on specific clinical outcomes in people with central nervous system diseases, its effectiveness cannot be established since these findings have not been replicated and the results were heterogeneous. This stimulation was feasible and safe to apply. Further studies are needed to replicate the obtained results of tsDCS when applied in populations with neurological diseases.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1 available at http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A456).
A systematic review of the biopsychosocial dimensions affected by chronic pain in children and adolescents: identifying reliable and valid pediatric multidimensional chronic pain assessment tools
Authors: Greenough Megan J. , Jibb Lindsay , Lewis Krystina B. , Bucknall Tracey , Lamontagne Christine , Demery Varin Melissa , Sokalski Ashley , Squires Janet Elaine
Published: November 2023

Pediatric chronic pain is a complex experience that is often challenging to describe and measure. Multidimensional tools that evaluate the biopsychosocial impact of chronic pain in pediatric patients can help clinicians to prioritize and tailor interdisciplinary pain care; yet, the psychometric value and clinical utility of such tools has not yet been systematically studied in the literature. The purpose of this review was to identify multidimensional biopsychosocial tools used in pediatric chronic pain, synthesize their reliability and validity evidence, and draw on this evidence to describe the relationships between chronic pain and biopsychosocial domains. The search involved 2 phases to (1) identify eligible tools and (2) conduct a measured forward citation search of tool development articles. Tool eligibility was guided by the Multidimensional Biobehavioral Model of Pediatric Pain and study eligibility was focused on primary chronic pain diagnoses unrelated to disease. Data extraction was focused on reliability and validity evidence of eligible tools, guided by the Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing. Results yielded 6 tools that included 64 eligible studies, highlighting 84 significant relationships between pain and functional interference across 11 biopsychosocial variables. All tools were shown to have good internal consistency and evidence of validity, primarily through relationships to other variables. Of the 6 tools, the most brief and easy to use were the most under studied. Further psychometric research is warranted for these tools to investigate their clinical utility and psychometric properties in guiding and prioritizing pain care for children and adolescents.
Prognostic Value of Baseline Tumor Burden and Tumor Dissemination Extracted From 18F-FDG PET/CT in a Cohort of Adult Patients With Early or Advanced Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Mouheb Mehdi , Pierre-Jean Morgane , Devillers Anne , Fermé Christophe , Benchalal Mohamed , Manson Guillaume , Le Jeune Florence , Houot Roch , Palard-Novello Xavier
Published: November 2023

Purpose

We aimed to assess the prognostic value of baseline tumor burden and dissemination parameters extracted from 18F-FDG PET/CT in patients with early or advanced Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) treated with ABVD (doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine) or escalated BEACOPP (increased bleomycin, etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone).

Patients and Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with classical Hodgkin lymphoma were retrospectively included. Progression-free survival (PFS) analysis of dichotomized clinicobiological and PET/CT parameters (SUVmax, TMTV, TLG, Dmax, and Dbulk) was performed. Optimal cutoff values for quantitative metrics were defined as the values maximizing the Youden index from receiver operating characteristic analysis. PFS rates were estimated with Kaplan-Meier curves, and the log-rank test was used to assess statistical significance. Hazard ratios were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

With a median age of 32 years, 166 patients were enrolled. A total of 111 patients had ABVD or ABVD-like treatment with or without radiotherapy and 55 patients with escalated BEACOPP treatment. The median follow-up was 55 months. Only International Prognostic Score (IPS >1), TMTV >107 cm3, and TLG >1628 were found to be significant prognostic factors for PFS on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis revealed that IPS and TLG were independently prognostic and, combined, identified 4 risk groups (P < 0.001): low (low TLG and low IPS; 4-year PFS, 95%), intermediate-low (high IPS and low TLG; 4-year PFS, 79%), intermediate-high (low IPS and high TLG; 4-year PFS, 78%), and high (high TLG and high IPS; 4-year PFS, 71%).

Conclusions

Combining baseline TLG with IPS could improve PFS prediction.
Fairness and trust in organic food supply chains
Authors: Busch Maren , Mühlrath Daniel , Herzig Christian
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The authors analysed fairness as an antecedent of trust to understand how trust building can be actively managed to facilitate collaboration in buyer–supplier relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was employed to buyer–supplier relationships of five organic food companies from three different sectors. The research was developed with data collected in 2022 through qualitative research interviews and analysed using a structured content analysis. A practitioner workshop served to complement findings and confirm the interpretation of data by discussing interview results from a managerial perspective.

Findings

A conceptual model based on organisational trust and justice theory was developed to examine causal relations between fairness and trust. Findings show that perceived distributional, procedural and interactional fairness mutually interact with the perceived trustworthiness of business partners and that both contribute to building personal, organisational and institutional trust. Qualitative data support the conceptual model and show that trust is a valuable relational resource that affects relationship quality and the willingness to collaborate and to take risks in times of uncertainty.

Practical implications

High trust levels developed through positive fairness perceptions can lower risk perceptions whilst increasing the willingness to collaborate in supply chain relationships. This can help deal with market uncertainties.

Originality/value

Through the lens of organisational trust and justice theory, this study extends the literature on collaboration in supply chains by including a comprehensive view on the formation of trust in business-to-business (B2B) relationships.
Online shopping: a systematic review of customers’ perceived benefits and challenges during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Rafiq Sadaf , Wu Jiang
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted the habits of customers as well as their shopping behavior. This study aims to critically examine the associated benefits and challenges of online shopping from the perspective of customers in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the relevant literature published between 2020 and 2022 was conducted via performing comprehensive search query in leading scholarly databases “Scopus and Web of Science” with the restriction of their predefined subject category of “Business.” Overall, 30 research studies were selected for the review and a significant number of studies were published in 2021 (n = 15).

Findings

The research findings revealed that customers are motivated to shop online because of perceived benefits such as time-saving, convenience, 24/7 accessibility, interactive services without physical boundaries, trust, website attractiveness and cost-saving. However, challenging factors such as financial scams, privacy concerns, poor quality of products and services, fake promotions and reduced social interaction have hindered the growth of online shopping. The recommendations regarding designing marketing strategies, secured transaction, multiple payment options, trust building, protection of privacy, promotion via social media, effective mechanism to secure and timely delivery of product are helpful to improve the service quality of online shopping.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this research are valuable to online retailers and policymakers, as it highlights how the benefits can enhance customers’ shopping intentions and minimize the impact of associated challenges. This study also recommends the redesigning of user-friendly interfaces of online shopping websites and ensures their privacy, security and performance on a regular basis.
Anti-corruption corporate disclosures and earnings management: evidence from a developed market
Authors: Elmaghrabi Mohamed Esmail , Diab Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the association between anti-corruption corporate disclosure and earnings management practices by bringing evidence from a developed market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data from non-financial FTSE 100 Shares in 2016 and 2017. This study develops a disclosure index to capture the anti-corruption disclosures and run pooled, fixed effects and generalized methods of moments regression models to explore the anti-corruption disclosure–earnings management association. This study also disentangles discretionary accruals into positive and negative, use adjusted discretionary accrual computation and take a more conservative view on discretionary accruals computation as an additional analysis.

Findings

The results show a negative and significant association between anti-corruption disclosure and earnings management practices. When disentangling discretionary accruals (overvalued/positive and undervalued/negative), the authors found that higher anti-corruption disclosures were negatively associated with positive discretionary accruals, but not associated with negative discretionary accruals. The additional analysis confirmed the previous results, showing that anti-corruption disclosures are perceived as a substantive practice, rather than a mere disclosure practice for legitimacy reasons.

Originality/value

This study contributes to debate on the symbolic versus the substantive uses of anti-corruption disclosures in the UK context.
Preparation of BiOBr/PVDF photocatalytic membranes for long-term and efficient degradation of organic dyes using phase transition and in situ deposition methods
Authors: Chen Dong , Zhang Rui , Jiang JiaCheng
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the morphology and physicochemical properties of BiOBr/Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composite membranes and the differences in the properties of BiOBr/PVDF composite membranes made by adding different precursor ratios during the casting process.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, sodium bromide and Bi(NO3)3 were used as precursors for the preparation of BiOBr photocatalysts, and PVDF membranes were modified by using the phase conversion method in conjunction with the in situ deposition method to produce BiOBr/PVDF hydrophilic composite membranes with both membrane separation and photocatalytic capabilities.

Findings

The characterization results confirmed that the composites were successfully and homogeneously co-mingled in the PVDF membranes. The related performance of the composite membrane was tested, and it was found that the composite membrane with the optimal precursor incorporation ratio had good photocatalytic efficiency and antipollution ability; the removal efficiencies of methyl orange, rhodamine B and methylene blue were 80.43%, 85.02% and 86.94%, respectively, in 2.5 h. The photocatalytic efficiency of composite membranes with different precursor ratios increased and then decreased with the increase of the precursor addition ratio.

Originality/value

The composite membrane is prepared by phase conversion method with in situ deposition method, and the BiOBr material has unique advantages for the degradation of organic dyes. The comprehensive experimental data can be known that the composite membrane prepared in this paper has high degradation efficiency and good durability for organic dyes.
Do football fans care about destinations? The football fans’ travel motivation to sports events and their post-travel behaviours
Authors: Öğretmenoğlu Mert , Çıkı Kartal Doğukan , Akova Orhan , Law Rob
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationships amongst football fans’ travel motivations (FFTMs), their satisfaction (SAT), their perceived destination image (PDI) and their behavioural intentions (BIs). On the other hand, the mediating effects of SAT on the relationships among FFTMs, PDI and BIs are analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

An approach based on a quantitative research method was used, and the data were gathered from Italian and British tourists who visited Istanbul, aiming to attend the Champions League Final match of Manchester City versus Inter Milan.

Findings

Based on 277 applicable surveys, Smart-PLS was conducted to test the conceptual model. The results indicated positive and meaningful relationships amongst FFTMs, SAT, PDI and Bis. Moreover, the results also demonstrated that the effect of FFTMs and PDI on BIs is mediated by SAT.

Originality/value

This research makes a contribution to the football tourism literature by first examining the theory of planned behaviour in conjunction with FFTMs, SAT, PDI and BIs. Furthermore, the findings of this study could offer valuable insights to assist tourism marketers in gaining a deeper understanding of FFTMs, BIs, SAT and PDI.
Improving health equity through health care systems research
Authors: Chisolm Deena J. , Dugan Jerome A. , Figueroa Jose F. , Lane‐Fall Meghan B. , Roby Dylan H. , Rodriguez Hector P. , Ortega Alexander N.
Published: November 2023

Objective

To describe health equity research priorities for health care delivery systems and delineate a research and action agenda that generates evidence‐based solutions to persistent racial and ethnic inequities in health outcomes.

Data Sources and Study Setting

This project was conducted as a component of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ) stakeholder engaged process to develop an Equity Agenda and Action Plan to guide priority setting to advance health equity. Recommendations were developed and refined based on expert input, evidence review, and stakeholder engagement. Participating stakeholders included experts from academia, health care organizations, industry, and government.

Study Design

Expert group consensus, informed by stakeholder engagement and targeted evidence review.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Priority themes were derived iteratively through (1) brainstorming and idea reduction, (2) targeted evidence review of candidate themes, (3) determination of preliminary themes; (4) input on preliminary themes from stakeholders attending AHRQ's 2022 Health Equity Summit; and (5) and refinement of themes based on that input. The final set of research and action recommendations was determined by authors' consensus.

Principal Findings

Health care delivery systems have contributed to racial and ethnic disparities in health care. High quality research is needed to inform health care delivery systems approaches to undo systemic barriers and inequities. We identified six priority themes for research; (1) institutional leadership, culture, and workforce; (2) data‐driven, culturally tailored care; (3) health equity targeted performance incentives; (4) health equity‐informed approaches to health system consolidation and access; (5) whole person care; (6) and whole community investment. We also suggest cross‐cutting themes regarding research workforce and research timelines.

Conclusions

As the nation's primary health services research agency, AHRQ can advance equitable delivery of health care by funding research and disseminating evidence to help transform the organization and delivery of health care.