bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Integrating the 5 Pillars of Community Practice Can Transform Physical Therapist Education and Reduce Health Disparities
Authors: Varnado Kimberly , Richardson Shannon , Somyoo Nipaporn , Mejia-Downs Anne , Dial Monica
Published: July 2024

Patient history assists clinicians in determining the most appropriate tests to identify the symptoms’ source and select appropriate interventions. Therefore, a subjective history is an essential component of patient management. When physical therapist practitioners transition into academia, they must understand how the history of the education system may affect learners. Health disparities are related to the lack of workforce diversity and skills in cultural responsiveness, and the education system is critical in addressing the impact of future providers on health disparities. Developing a doctor of physical therapy program to address health disparities requires an analysis of the historical context of the US educational and health care systems, along with traditional components of physical therapist education. This country’s education system was built upon a 2-tiered system, where minoritized individuals struggled to overcome barriers imposed by legislation and societal beliefs. Jim Crow laws continued this unequal access to education, and the recent Supreme Court ruling to deny race-based affirmative action continues these inequities. This historical context informed the construction of the College of Saint Mary Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. The program’s mission led to using less traditional educational approaches; thus, the pillars of practice took form. The 5 pillars evolved to include social determinants, inclusive faculty and student recruitment and retention practices, equitable grading, culturally responsive pedagogy, and community development. The purpose of this paper is to present a historical overview of the US education system and its influence on physical therapist education. Furthermore, it will illustrate how this historical context inspired the 5 Pillars of Community Practice from College of Saint Mary and discuss the challenges and interventions related to these pillars. There are tremendous disparities in educational outcomes and patient services in the United States. Disparities are most significant in those with historically marginalized identities. If those disparities are to improve, a change is required in the people providing care to patients. The best way to accomplish this is by transforming how future providers are educated.
Triple Correlation Sums of Coefficients of Maass Forms For SL4(ℤ)
Authors: Hou Fei , LÜ Guangshi
Published: July 2024

We investigate the triple correlation sums of coefficients of Maaß forms in the level aspect. More precisely, letting Π be a Maaß form for $SL_4({{\mathbb{Z}}})$ and f (resp. g) a holomorphic newform of prime level p (resp. trivial level), we show a strengthened upper bound for the sum $\sum_{m,n\ge 1} \lambda_{g}(n) \lambda_{\Pi}(m,1,1) \lambda_{f}(m+pn) \,U{\left({m}/{X}\right) }V{\left ({n}/{H}\right)} $. More generally, for any complex sequence $\lambda_\star (n)\in {{\mathbb{C}}}$, we further obtain a ready-to-use quantitative estimate for the triple correlation sum $\sum_{m,n\ge 1} \lambda_\star (n) \lambda_{\Pi}(m,1,1)\lambda_{f}(m+pn) \,U{\left({m}/{X}\right) }V{\left ({n}/{H}\right)} $. As a result, we present that this type of sum is non-trivial in the regime $p\le X^{1-\varepsilon}$ for any ɛ > 0; notably, there exists a family of newforms such that the triple sum is non-trivial, as long as $H\ge X^{\varepsilon}$. In addition, we obtain an upper bound for the sum of the shape $\sum_{m,n\ge 1}a(m) b(n) \lambda_{f}(m+pn) \,U{\left({m}/{X}\right) }V{\left ({n}/{H}\right)}$ for any complex sequences $\mathbf{a}=\{a(m)\}$ and $\mathbf{b}=\{b(n)\}$. As an application, we consider certain triple correlation sums corresponding to the configuration $GL_M \times GL_N\times GL_2$, $M,N\ge3$ and attain the significant cancellations in these sums.
Technological Progress and Rent Seeking
Authors: Glode Vincent , Ordoñez Guillermo
Published: July 2024

We model firms’ allocation of resources across surplus-creating (ie, productive) and surplus-appropriating (ie, rent-seeking) activities. Our model predicts that industry-wide technological advancements, such as recent progress in data collection and processing, induce a disproportionate and socially inefficient reallocation of resources toward surplus-appropriating activities. As technology improves, firms rely more on appropriation to obtain their profits, thereby endogenously reducing the impact of technological progress on economic progress and inflating the price of the resources used for both types of activities. Our theoretical insights shed light on the rise of high-frequency trading.
Unveiling the dynamics of B lymphocytes in systemic lupus erythematosus patients treated with belimumab through longitudinal single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Bang So-Young , Joh Christine Suh-Yun , Itamiya Takahiro , Jeong Soyoung , Lee Jung-Ho , Kwon Haeyoon , Jin Hyunjin , Jung Jaewon , Chung Hyeyeon , Lee Brian H , Gong Jeong-Ryeol , Ishigaki Kazuyoshi , Fujio Keishi , Bae Sang-Cheol , Kim Hyun Je , Lee Hye-Soon
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Unravelling the mechanisms underlying treatment response for targeted therapeutics in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients is challenging due to the limited understanding of diverse responses of circulating immune cells, particularly B cells. We investigated B lymphocyte dynamics during anti-BAFF treatment, utilizing longitudinal single-cell transcriptome data.

Methods

We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in four Korean SLE patients before and after belimumab treatment at the following time points: 2 weeks, 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results

Analysing over 73 000 PBMCs, we identified eight distinct subsets of B cells and plasmablasts and analysed dynamic changes within these cell subsets: initial declines in naïve and transitional B cells followed by an increase at 3 months, contrasted by an initial increase and subsequent decrease in memory B cells by the third month. Meanwhile, plasmablasts exhibited a consistent decline throughout the treatment. B cell activation pathways, specifically in naïve and memory B cells, were downregulated during the third and sixth months. These findings were validated at the protein level throughout the first 4 weeks of treatment using flow cytometry. Comparative analysis with bulk transcriptome data from 22 Japanese SLE patients showed increased NR4A1 expression 6 months post-belimumab treatment, indicating its role in restricting self-reactive B cells, thereby contributing to the biological responses of anti-BAFF treatment.

Conclusion

The observed B cell dynamics provided insights into the immunological mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of anti-BAFF in SLE patients. Furthermore, it underscores the need for research in predicting drug responses based on immune profiling.
Toxicity of waterpipe tobacco smoking: the role of flavors, sweeteners, humectants, and charcoal
Authors: Kassem Nada O F , Strongin Robert M , Stroup Andrea M , Brinkman Marielle C , El-Hellani Ahmad , Erythropel Hanno C , Etemadi Arash , Goniewicz Maciej L , Hansen Eleanore G , Kassem Noura O , Li Dongmei , Liles Sandy , Noël Alexandra , Rezk-Hanna Mary , Wang Qixin , Rahman Irfan
Published: July 2024

Waterpipe tobacco (WPT) smoking is a public health concern, particularly among youth and young adults. The global spread of WPT use has surged because the introduction of pre-packaged flavored and sweetened WPT, which is widely marketed as a safer tobacco alternative. Besides flavorants and sugars, WPT additives include humectants, which enhance the moisture and sweetness of WPT, act as solvents for flavors, and impart smoothness to the smoke, thus increasing appeal to users. In the United States, unlike cigarette tobacco flavoring (with the exception of menthol), there is no FDA product standard or policy in place prohibiting sales of flavored WPT. Research has shown that the numerous fruit, candy, and alcohol flavors added to WPT entice individuals to experience those flavors, putting them at an increased risk of exposure to WPT smoke-related toxicants. Additionally, burning charcoal briquettes—used as a heating source for WPT—contributes to the harmful health effects of WPT smoking. This review presents existing evidence on the potential toxicity resulting from humectants, sugars, and flavorants in WPT, and from the charcoal used to heat WPT. The review discusses relevant studies of inhalation toxicity in animal models and of biomarkers of exposure in humans. Current evidence suggests that more data are needed on toxicant emissions in WPT smoke to inform effective tobacco regulation to mitigate the adverse impact of WPT use on human health.
Using structure prediction of negative sense RNA virus nucleoproteins to assess evolutionary relationships
Authors: Sabsay Kimberly R , te Velthuis Aartjan J W
Published: July 2024

Negative sense RNA viruses (NSV) include some of the most detrimental human pathogens, including the influenza, Ebola, and measles viruses. NSV genomes consist of one or multiple single-stranded RNA molecules that are encapsidated into one or more ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes. These RNPs consist of viral RNA, a viral RNA polymerase, and many copies of the viral nucleoprotein (NP). Current evolutionary relationships within the NSV phylum are based on the alignment of conserved RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) domain amino acid sequences. However, the RdRp domain-based phylogeny does not address whether NP, the other core protein in the NSV genome, evolved along the same trajectory or whether several RdRp–NP pairs evolved through convergent evolution in the segmented and non-segmented NSV genome architectures. Addressing how NP and the RdRp domain evolved may help us better understand NSV diversity. Since NP sequences are too short to infer robust phylogenetic relationships, we here used experimentally obtained and AlphaFold 2.0-predicted NP structures to probe whether evolutionary relationships can be estimated using NSV NP sequences. Following flexible structure alignments of modeled structures, we find that the structural homology of the NSV NPs reveals phylogenetic clusters that are consistent with RdRp-based clustering. In addition, we were able to assign viruses for which RdRp sequences are currently missing to phylogenetic clusters based on the available NP sequence. Both our RdRp-based and NP-based relationships deviate from the current NSV classification of the segmented Naedrevirales, which cluster with the other segmented NSVs in our analysis. Overall, our results suggest that the NSV RdRp and NP genes largely evolved along similar trajectories and even short pieces of genetic, protein-coding information can be used to infer evolutionary relationships, potentially making metagenomic analyses more valuable.
Spicy food consumption and risk of vascular disease: Evidence from a large-scale Chinese prospective cohort of 0.5 million people
Authors: You Dongfang , Sun Dianjianyi , Zhao Ziyu , Song Mingyu , Pan Lulu , Wu Yaqian , Tang Yingdan , Lu Mengyi , Shao Fang , Shen Sipeng , Bai Jianling , Yi Honggang , Zhang Ruyang , Wei Yongyue , Ma Hongxia , Xu Hongyang , Yu Canqing , Lv Jun , Pei Pei , Yang Ling , Chen Yiping , Chen Zhengming , Shen Hongbing , Chen Feng , Zhao Yang , Li Liming ,   On behalf of the China Kadoorie Biobank Collaborative Group
Published: July 2024

Background:

Spicy food consumption has been reported to be inversely associated with mortality from multiple diseases. However, the effect of spicy food intake on the incidence of vascular diseases in the Chinese population remains unclear. This study was conducted to explore this association.

Methods:

This study was performed using the large-scale China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) prospective cohort of 486,335 participants. The primary outcomes were vascular disease, ischemic heart disease (IHD), major coronary events (MCEs), cerebrovascular disease, stroke, and non-stroke cerebrovascular disease. A Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess the association between spicy food consumption and incident vascular diseases. Subgroup analysis was also performed to evaluate the heterogeneity of the association between spicy food consumption and the risk of vascular disease stratified by several basic characteristics. In addition, the joint effects of spicy food consumption and the healthy lifestyle score on the risk of vascular disease were also evaluated, and sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the reliability of the association results.

Results:

During a median follow-up time of 12.1 years, a total of 136,125 patients with vascular disease, 46,689 patients with IHD, 10,097 patients with MCEs, 80,114 patients with cerebrovascular disease, 56,726 patients with stroke, and 40,098 patients with non-stroke cerebrovascular disease were identified. Participants who consumed spicy food 1–2 days/week (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.95, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = [0.93, 0.97], P <0.001), 3–5 days/week (HR = 0.96, 95% CI = [0.94, 0.99], P = 0.003), and 6–7 days/week (HR = 0.97, 95% CI = [0.95, 0.99], P = 0.002) had a significantly lower risk of vascular disease than those who consumed spicy food less than once a week (P
trend <0.001), especially in those who were younger and living in rural areas. Notably, the disease-based subgroup analysis indicated that the inverse associations remained in IHD (P
trend = 0.011) and MCEs (P
trend = 0.002) risk. Intriguingly, there was an interaction effect between spicy food consumption and the healthy lifestyle score on the risk of IHD (P
interaction = 0.037).

Conclusions:

Our findings support an inverse association between spicy food consumption and vascular disease in the Chinese population, which may provide additional dietary guidance for the prevention of vascular diseases.
Intermediate uveitis in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) associated with a heterozygous variant in the TNFRSF13B gene.
Authors: Osaer Mathijs , Terryn Wim , De Baere Elfride , De Vriendt Ciel , Haerynck Filomeen , Kerre Tessa , Kreps Elke O.
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To report on a rare case of intermediate uveitis occurring in a patient with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and a heterozygous TNFRSF13B variant.

Methods:

Observational case report.

Results:

A 23-year-old male presented with a 3-month history of increasing floaters and blurred vision to both eyes. He had been treated with topical and intravitreal corticosteroids by his local ophthalmologist nine months before. Ocular examination demonstrated bilateral intermediate uveitis with retinal vasculitis. He had been treated with intravenous immunoglobulins during childhood, due to primary humoral immunodeficiency. Systemic work-up for other causes of intermediate uveitis was unremarkable, notably no features of systemic sarcoid-like disease were detected. Initial treatment with mycophenolate mofetil showed insufficient response, and upon switching to adalimumab, clinical remission was achieved. Immunocytometry and genetic work-up revealed a smB+CD21norm subtype of CVID and a heterozygous TNFRSF13B variant.

Conclusion:

This report of CVID-associated intermediate uveitis in a patient with a heterozygous TNFRSF13B variant highlights the potential involvement of the eye within CVID-associated autoimmunity and the role for anti-TNF blockade in this challenging group of patients.
Endoscopic Surgery for Congenital or Acquired Cataract Associated with Persistent Fetal Vasculature: A Case Series
Authors: Otsubo Mitsuru , Kaga Tatsushi , Yokoyama Yoshimi , Kojima Takashi
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) is a congenital malformation caused by a failure in regression of the primary vitreous and hyaloid vessels. An abnormal PFV occurs in the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. Surgery for PFV carries the risk of retinal detachment. We report four cases of cataracts associated with PFV, in which our novel surgical technique with an intraocular endoscope was safely performed.

Methods:

Lensectomy and vitrectomy were performed in cases 1, 3, and 4, while lensectomy, vitrectomy, and intraocular lens implantation using an endoscope were performed in case 2. In all cases, after lens removal, a slit at the posterior lens capsule was created to avoid the retrolental fibrovascular membrane using underwater electric coagulation. Moreover, the endoscope was inserted, by which the intraocular region was observed to determine the treatment method for the fibrovascular membrane and vitreous stalk. No additional surgeries were required for complications before or after any of the surgeries.

Results:

Using an endoscope during cataract surgery associated with PFV, observing the vitreous stalk at high magnification and ensuring safe treatment were possible.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic surgery could be considered an effective method for treating PFV-associated cataracts.
Combined 41- gauge surgically induced macular detachment and free internal limiting membrane flap technique for management of refractory full-thickness macular hole
Authors: Di Leo Laura , Tombolini Beatrice , Afflitto Ilenia Gallo , Vulpetti Andrea , Frisina Rino
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To report a case of anatomic closure and functional improvement in a patient affected by refractory full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) undergone a combined 41-gauge (g) surgically induced macular detachment and free internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case-report of a 70-years-olded woman affected by refractory FTMH who referred to Ophthalmology Unit of Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza (Italy) in April 2023. The patient underwent a combined 41-g surgically induced macular detachment and free ILM flap. Macular detachment was induced by multiple subretinal injections of balanced salt solution (BSS) by 41-g needle through three retinotomies. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were performed preoperatively and postoperatively at 7th day, 1st and 6th month.

Results:

On 7th postoperative day, FTMH showed complete closure. BCVA improved from preoperative 20/400 to 20/70 at 6th postoperative month.

Discussion:

BSS subretinal injection allowed the mobilization and relaxation of retina at the posterior pole. Although the edges of the hole were still detectable, their diameters were inferior to preoperative measurements. Autologous free ILM flap allowed to fill the residual gap into the hole.

Conclusion:

The final anatomic closure, and the postoperative functional improvement demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach, supporting its indication for refractory FTHM.
Ocular Sarcoidosis Masquerading as Acute Retinal Necrosis: Two Case Reports
Authors: Liu Hsin-Ming , Lai Yung-Jen , Chiu Fang-yi , Chan Wei-Chun
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To report two cases of ocular sarcoidosis (OS) initially presenting as unilateral acute retinitis, which mimicked acute retinal necrosis.

Methods:

Retrospective descriptive case reports.

Results:

Two middle-aged healthy Asian women experienced progressive vision loss in their left eyes over a one-month period. Anterior uveitis, vitritis, and diffuse peripheral retinal infiltration were observed. Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations were conducted, including blood work-up, viral polymerase chain reaction of anterior chamber paracentesis samples, and chest X-ray, all yielding negative results. Despite prompt initiation of antiviral therapy, retinal infiltrations remained unchanged within the first 10 days. Chest CT imaging revealed multiple lymphadenopathies consistent with sarcoidosis. Case 1 was presumed OS, and case 2 was definite OS based on lung and lymph node biopsy results in accordance with the 2017 revised international workshop on OS (IWOS) criteria. In both cases, the retinal lesions gradually resolved after several weeks of systemic corticosteroids, and the best corrected vision of the affected eye improved to 20/25 at the 12 and 6-month follow-ups, respectively.

Conclusion:

Acute unilateral retinal infiltration in the peripheral region, exhibiting rapid progression resembling acute retinal necrosis, can be a rare manifestation of OS. Chest CT imaging can provide valuable assistance in the diagnostic process, especially when systemic examinations yield no significant findings.
PUNCTATE INNER CHOROIDOPATHY FOLLOWING PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY FOR HIGH MYOPIC FULL THICKNESS MACULAR HOLE
Authors: Feo Alessandro , Giacomotti Enrico , Santoru Francesco , Crepaldi Lorenzo , Criscuolo Daniele , Allegrini Davide , Romano Mario R
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

To describe a case of punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) and secondary or epiphenomenon multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (EpiMEWDS) following surgery for high myopic full-thickness macular hole (FTMH).

Methods:

Case report.

Results:

A 57-year-old high myopic female was diagnosed with cataract and FTMH in the left eye. Her initial best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/20 in her right eye and 20/80 in the left eye. She underwent routine combined phacoemulsification and 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with the inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) technique and twice-repeated epiretinal membrane (ERM) and ILM staining in the left eye. Two weeks postoperatively, the patient reported significant visual decline and photopsia in her left eye. BCVA decreased to counting fingers. Anterior segment examination was unremarkable. Ophthalmoscopic examination showed multiple whitish-yellow lesions in the macular region compatible with PIC lesions in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), blue-light fundus autofluorescence (BAF), fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography were performed and confirmed the diagnosis. The patient underwent oral steroid therapy for PIC treatment. One week after treatment initiation, BAF showed the occurrence of EpiMEWDS. After one month, all lesions resolved and BCVA improved to 20/100.

Conclusions:

We report a rare case of PIC and EpiMEWDS development following surgery for FTMH. We hypothesize that several causes, including individual susceptibility (high myopia and female gender), post-surgical inflammation, and/or dye toxicity due to repeated staining could have amplified this inflammatory chorioretinal response. Larger studies are needed to better understand the potential triggers of PIC development after surgery.
The impact of nimodipine combined with Ginkgo biloba extract on cognitive function and ADL scores in patients with Parkinson’s disease: A retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Lianlian , Sun Hua , Han Zaigang
Published: July 2024

This study aims to explore the value of nimodipine combined with Ginkgo biloba extract in improving cognitive function and daily living abilities in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Clinical data from 551 patients with Parkinson’s disease admitted to the Neurology Department of the Affiliated Hospital of Beihua University from January 2022 to December 2022 were retrospectively collected. Cognitive function and daily living abilities were assessed in patients before treatment, and a reevaluation was conducted after 12 weeks of medication. Patients treated solely with nimodipine were categorized into the monotherapy group, while patients treated with nimodipine combined with Ginkgo biloba extract were included in the combination group. After 1:1 propensity score matching, a total of 83 pairs of patients were matched, and differences in relevant indicators between the 2 groups were compared. The total effective rate of treatment in the combination group was 90.36%, which was higher than the control group at 72.29% (P < .05). However, after treatment, the observation group showed higher Mini-Mental State Examination and activities of daily living scores compared to the control group (P < .05). The combined treatment of nimodipine and Ginkgo biloba extract in patients with Parkinson’s disease has a significant effect and can effectively improve cognitive function and enhance daily living abilities.
Global trends and hotspots related to whiplash injury: A visualization study
Authors: He Yaqi , Gao Jinpeng , Liu Yang , Qian Jinghua
Published: July 2024

Whiplash injury, commonly occurring as a result of car accidents, represents a significant public health concern. However, to date, no comprehensive study has utilized bibliometric approaches to analyze all published research on whiplash injury. Therefore, our study aims to provide an overview of current trends and the global research landscape using bibliometrics and visualization software. We performed a bibliometric analysis of the data retrieved and extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection database in whiplash injury research up to December 31, 2022. Research articles were assessed for specific characteristics, such as year of publication, country/region, institution, author, journal, field of study, references, and keywords. We identified 1751 research articles in the analysis and observed a gradual growth in the number of publications and references. The United States (379 articles, 21.64%), Canada (309 articles, 17.65%), and Australia (280 articles, 16.00%) emerged as the top-contributing countries/regions. Among institutions, the University of Queensland (169 articles, 9.65%) and the University of Alberta (106 articles, 6.05%) demonstrated the highest productivity. “Whiplash,” “Neck Pain,” “Cervical Spine Disease,” and “Whiplash-associated Disorders” are high-frequency keywords. Furthermore, emerging areas of research interest included traumatic brain injury and mental health issues following whiplash injury. The number of papers and citations has increased significantly over the past 2 decades. Whiplash injury research is characteristically multidisciplinary in approach, involving the fields of rehabilitation, neuroscience, and spinal disciplines. By identifying current research trends, our study offers valuable insights to guide future research endeavors in this field.
Investigating the mechanism of PAD in the treatment of acne based on network pharmacology and molecular docking: A review
Authors: Yan QianJun , Zhang Fang , Qiao Zukang , Jin Yangzi , Zheng Ruyi , Wu Jiani
Published: July 2024

Acne is a common and chronic skin condition characterized by high incidence, recurrent symptoms and difficult cure. Summarizing the clinical treatment experience, it was found that the powder for ascending and descending was effective in the treatment of acne. Our aim was to use network pharmacology and molecular docking to reveal the hub genes, biological functions, and signaling pathways of powder for ascending and descending against acne. First, the chemical components and target genes of PAD were sifted using the TCMSP and HERB database. The targets of acne were obtained simultaneously from the CTD, OMIM and GeneCards database. The obtained drug targets and disease targets were imported into the R language software to draw Venn diagrams. Then, the potential targets were imported into the String website to construct a protein interaction network diagram. And Cytoscape software was used for topological analysis to screen the core targets, and the core targets were analyzed by GO functional enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment. Finally, molecular docking was used to verify the predictions of key genes’ reliability. The core targets of the treatment of acne were TNF, GADPH, IL-6 and so on. The results of enrichment analysis showed that the treatment of acne with PAD may be related to TNF signaling pathway and AGE-RAGE signaling pathway. The molecular docking verification showed that the components were well bound to the core targets of acne, and the docking ability of stigmasterol and TNF (−12.73 kcal/mol) was particularly outstanding.
Assessment of depression in children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes mellitus: Impact and intervention strategies
Authors: Alqahtani Youssef A. , Shati Ayed A. , Alhawyan Fatimah S. , Alhanshani Ahmad A. , Al-Garni Abdulaziz M. , Al-Qahtani Saleh M. , Alshehri Mohammed A.
Published: July 2024

Depression is a common comorbidity in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), yet its prevalence, impact, and intervention strategies remain underexplored. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression among children and adolescents with T1DM, investigate its impact on health outcomes, and explore potential intervention strategies. A convenient sampling method was employed to recruit 229 participants aged 6 to 18 years from a single center. Data collection involved validated assessments, demographic surveys, and diabetes-related factor examinations during routine clinic visits. The patient health questionnaire-9 was utilized to evaluate the severity of depressive symptoms. Associations between depression and sociodemographic variables, diabetes management factors, and health behaviors were analyzed using chi-squared tests and logistic regression analysis. The prevalence of depression among participants was 43.23%. Older age, lower parental education levels, lower household income, smoking, and comorbidities were identified as significant risk factors for depression. Associations were found between depression and diabetes management factors, including glycemic control and frequency of glucose monitoring. Depression is highly prevalent among children and adolescents with T1DM and is associated with sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, and diabetes management. Integrated approaches to care that address both physical and mental health aspects are crucial for improving outcomes in this population.
Effectiveness of Bairui granules in the treatment of respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chai Keyan , Wang Haojia , Guan Yueqin , Shi Rui , Stalin Antony , Zhai Yiyan , Zhou Jiying , Qiao Chuanqi , Yang Siyun , Li Jiaqi , Zhang Xiaomeng , Wu Jiarui
Published: July 2024

Background:

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are characterized by a high mortality rate and clinical incidence. Bairui granules (BG), which employ a method of heat elimination and detoxification, have demonstrated benefits in the treatment of infectious respiratory diseases.

Methods:

A computerized search of 6 databases was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) relevant to the treatment of RTIs with BG up to November 30, 2023. Two researchers independently conducted data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and grading analysis. To evaluate the stability of the results, trial sequential analysis was employed.

Results:

This meta-analysis included 31 RCTs with a total of 4073 patients and demonstrated that the use of BG in the treatment of RTIs was associated with enhanced treatment efficacy (relative risk = 1.19, 95% credible interval: 1.16–1.22, P < .001). It also indicated a faster resolution of symptoms including pulmonary rales, cough, and fever, as well as a reduction in serological index factors, compared to the use of Western medicine treatment (WT) alone. Additionally, the duration of hospitalization for patients was significantly reduced (relative risk = −1.36, 95% credible interval: −1.55 to −1.17, P < .001). Trial sequential analysis confirmed the stability and conclusive evidence of the study results. The efficacy of treating RTIs with BG, either alone or in combination with WT, was found to be superior to WT alone. However, further high-quality RCTs are necessary to validate these outcomes.

Conclusion:

The effectiveness of treating RTIs using BG alone or in combination with WT was determined to be superior to using WT alone, with no serious adverse effects observed. However, additional RCTs are essential to further confirm the findings of this study.
Effects of the Internet-based rehabilitation information sharing program on psychological stress of family caregivers of inpatients: A non-randomized controlled study
Authors: Kozuki Wataru , Higuchi Yumi , Ueda Tetsuya , Murakami Tatsunori , Gen Aki
Published: July 2024

The psychological impact of Internet-based rehabilitation information provision on family caregivers of inpatients has not yet been investigated. This study investigated the impact of the Internet-based rehabilitation information sharing program on anxiety and depression among family caregivers of inpatients. Participants were patients admitted to a rehabilitation hospital and their families. The Internet and Communication Technology (ICT) group received weekly reports with photos and videos showing rehabilitation progress and patients’ activities of daily living, whereas the control group received only conventional care. The primary outcomes were the anxiety and depression scores of family caregivers, assessed at admission, discharge, and 1 month after discharge. Eighty-three participants were followed up (ICT group, n = 43; control group, n = 40). To minimize the impact of confounding factors, propensity-score matching was performed. Significant effects on anxiety (P = .03) and depression (P = .049) were found in the ICT group compared with the control group. The median difference in anxiety scores from discharge to 1 month post-discharge was −1.0 (interquartile range [IQR]: −2.0 to 0.8) in the ICT group versus 1.0 (IQR: −1.0 to 2.0) in the control group. The median difference in depression scores from admission to discharge was 0.5 (IQR: −1.0 to 2.8) in the ICT group and 2.0 (IQR: 1.0–3.8) in the control group. The Internet-based rehabilitation information sharing program may help reduce the family caregivers’ psychological stress, enabling improved patient care.
Adherence to iron supplementation during the first year of life infants in Izmir, Turkey
Authors: Tosyali Merve , Koç Feyza
Published: July 2024

To determine the prevalence of adherence to iron supplementation and the risk factors for incomplete adherence during the first year of life of infants in Izmir, Turkey. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 511 infants aged 2 to 12 months who presented to the Pediatrics outpatient clinics of Ege University Children’s Hospital were included. Mothers (n = 511) who agreed to participate in the study were interviewed face-to-face and a comprehensive questionnaire including questions about the sociodemographic characteristics of the children and the family, and their adherence to iron supplementation was administered. The data obtained from 471 (92.2%) mothers who used iron supplements for their babies were subjected to further statistical analysis. Analyses were performed with SPSS 25.0. Chi-square test was used for univariate analysis and logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent factors associated with incomplete adherence to iron supplementation. A total of 511 mothers were surveyed. Among the infants of mothers who participated in the study, 471 (92.2%) were taking iron supplementation. Of the infants who received iron supplementation, 58.3% were given iron supplementation with complete adherence. The percentage of complete adherence with iron supplementation was 35.1% between 2 and 4 months, 66.3% between 5 and 8 months, and 52.4% between 9 to 12 months. In univariate analysis, statistically significant differences were found between complete and incomplete adherence to iron supplementation in terms of infant age, time of birth, family income, maternal education, and maternal employment status (P < .001). When the data were analyzed using multivariate analysis, only maternal education level and infant age group were found to be statistically significant independent variables for complete and incomplete adherence to iron supplementation (P < .001). In populations with a high prevalence of ID, incomplete adherence to iron supplementation is a serious risk factor for ID/IDA. Although iron supplements are routinely given to infants by the Ministry of Health in Turkey, the prevalence of complete adherence to iron supplementation is low. Therefore, in order to increase the rate of complete adherence to iron supplementation, the iron supplementation status of infants should be reviewed in detail at each health child visit and families should be informed about the importance of supplementation to prevent iron deficiency.
Application of network pharmacology and dock of molecules on the exploration of the mechanism of frankincense-myrrh for lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration: A review
Authors: Lu Yun , Luan Haopeng , Peng Cong , Ma Junjie , Li Zhe , Hu Yu , Song Xinghua
Published: July 2024

To investigate the efficacy of Frankincense-Myrrh in lumbar Intervertebral degenerative diseases (LIDD). The active components of frankincense-myrrh was retrieved with a unique system pharmacology platform for Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP). The LIDD-related target genes were screened with DisGeNET and Genecards databases. Then, STRING & Cytoscape were used for analyzing the Protein-Protein Interaction network. DAVID was used for analyzing Gene Ontology (GO) & Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment. Finally, molecules of AutoDockVina and Pymol were used for docking the molecules for verifying active ingredients and key targets’ binding force. The 105 LIDD-related targets identified in Ruxiang (RX)-Moyao (MY) involve 53 active ingredients. In addition, topological analysis was conducted for identifying the 12 key targets. According to the analysis results of GO & KEGG, RX-MY is significant for treating LIDD through participating in many pathways and biological processes, such as signaling pathways of inflammatory response reactive process, MAP kinase activity, TNF, and MAPK, etc. According to the dock results, the active components oxo-tirucalic, acid, isofouquierone, (7S, 8R, 9S, 10R, 13S, 14S,17Z)-17-ethylidene-7-hydroxy-10,13-dimethyl-1,2,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15-decahydrocyclopenta [a] phenanthrene-3,16-dion in RX-MY binds actively. The basic pharmacological action and RX-MY-related mechanism in the treatment of LIDD was revealed in this study for the first time. It is predicted that the results may provide a treatment plan for RX-MY with replacement of NSAIDs and warrant investigation of new therapeutic alternatives for LIDD. However, these predictions should be validated by relevant pharmacological trials.
Symptom progression in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder from ataxia through syncope to neuropathic pain: A case report
Authors: Zhao Ziyi , Pan Chunhua , Chen Junting , Wu Rui , Xu Zucai , Huang Hao
Published: July 2024

Rationale:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) involves autoimmune and inflammatory responses in the central nervous system, primarily affecting the optic nerves and spinal cord. Atypical presentations such as ataxia and syncope complicate the diagnosis, and lesions in the medulla are easily mistaken for cerebral infarction. This case report emphasizes the need to recognize such manifestations to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely treatment.

Patient concerns:

This case report presents an NMOSD female patient who experienced ataxia, syncope, and neuropathic pain during her illness.

Diagnosis:

NMOSD.

Interventions:

The patient managed her blood sugar with insulin, controlled neuropathic pain with pregabalin, and underwent 5 plasma exchanges.

Outcomes:

Significant improvement was noted 1 week post-plasma exchange, with complete resolution of neuropathic pain and no symptom recurrence reported at 6-month follow-up.

Lessons:

Atypical manifestations of NMOSD, such as ataxia, syncope, and trigeminal neuralgia, increase diagnostic difficulty. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely and appropriate treatment for patients.
Construction and validation of a TTN mutation associated immune prognostic model for evaluating immune microenvironment and outcomes of gastric cancer: An observational study
Authors: Chen Ruyue , Yao Zengwu , Jiang Lixin
Published: July 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is a prevalent form of cancer worldwide, and TTN (titin) mutations are frequently observed in GC. However, the association between TTN mutations and immunotherapy for GC remains unclear, necessitating the development of novel prognostic models. The prognostic value and potential mechanisms of TTN in stomach adenocarcinoma were evaluated by TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas)-stomach adenocarcinoma cohort analysis, and an immune prognostic model was constructed based on TTN status. We validated it using the GSE84433 dataset. We performed Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and screened for differentially expressed genes, and used lasso (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) regression analysis to screen for survival genes to construct a multifactorial survival model. In addition, we evaluated the relative proportions of 22 immune cells using the CIBERSORT algorithm for immunogenicity analysis. Finally, we constructed the nomogram integrating immune prognostic model and other clinical factors. GESA showed enrichment of immune-related phenotypes in patients with TTN mutations. We constructed an immune prognostic model based on 16 genes could identify gastric cancer patients with higher risk of poor prognosis. Immuno-microenvironmental analysis showed increased infiltration of naive B cells, plasma cells, and monocyte in high-risk patients. In addition, Nomo plots predicted the probability of 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS (overall survival) in GC patients, showing good predictive performance. In this study, we identified that TTN gene may be a potential clinical biomarker for GC and TTN mutations may be a predictor of immunotherapy in patients. We constructed and validated a new model for prognosis of GC patients based on immune characteristics associated with TTN mutations. This study may provide potential therapeutic strategies for gastric cancer.
Examining the effectiveness of artificial intelligence applications in asthma and COPD outpatient support in terms of patient health and public cost: SWOT analysis
Authors: Akduman Seha , Yilmaz Kadir
Published: July 2024

This research aimed to examine the effectiveness of artificial intelligence applications in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) outpatient treatment support in terms of patient health and public costs. The data obtained in the research using semiotic analysis, content analysis and trend analysis methods were analyzed with strengths, weakness, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis. In this context, 18 studies related to asthma, COPD and artificial intelligence were evaluated. The strengths of artificial intelligence applications in asthma and COPD outpatient treatment stand out as early diagnosis, access to more patients and reduced costs. The points that stand out among the weaknesses are the acceptance and use of technology and vulnerabilities related to artificial intelligence. Opportunities arise in developing differential diagnoses of asthma and COPD and in examining prognoses for the diseases more effectively. Malicious use, commercial data leaks and data security issues stand out among the threats. Although artificial intelligence applications provide great convenience in the outpatient treatment process for asthma and COPD diseases, precautions must be taken on a global scale and with the participation of international organizations against weaknesses and threats. In addition, there is an urgent need for accreditation for the practices to be carried out in this regard.
PTGS2 as target of compound Huangbai liquid in the nursing of pressure ulcer
Authors: Guo Dongmei , Ma Yanhong , Zhang Nan , Zhang Yan , Guo Suzhi
Published: July 2024

Objective:

Pressure ulcer refers to ulceration and necrosis caused by local skin and cell tissues being compressed for a long time, continuous ischemia, hypoxia, and malnutrition. However, role of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) in the management of pressure ulcers in with compound Huangbai liquid is still unclear.

Methods:

Traditional Chinese medicine components and related targets of compound Huangbai liquid were collected through traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) and Batman-traditional Chinese medicine database. Disease-related targets were obtained using the Gene Cards database. The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the Search tool for retrieval of interacting genes (STRING) and analyzed by Cytoscape to obtain the core components. To evaluate the clinical efficacy of the compound Huangbai liquid in the treatment of pressure ulcers, 40 patients with pressure ulcers were selected and divided into an observation group and a control group, with 20 individuals in each group. The observation group received treatment with compound Huangbai liquid.

Results:

Sixty-five components and 480 targets of compound Huangbai liquid were obtained from TCMSP and Batman - traditional Chinese medicine databases. Two hundred seventy-three pressure ulcer-related targets were obtained. Seventy-two potential targets of compound Huangbai pigment in treatment of pressure ulcer were obtained, and 2 unrelated targets were deleted. There were 70 nodes and 1167 edges in PPI network. Gene ontology (GO) function is involved in biological processes such as reactive oxygen species metabolism and cellular response to chemical stress. Cellular components such as platelet α granules lumen and membrane rafts were involved. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment results showed that compound Huangbai liquid in treatment of pressure ulcer. The clinical results indicate that the compound Huangbai liquid has a good therapeutic effect on pressure ulcers.

Conclusion:

PTGS2 may be a target for treatment of pressure ulcers with compound Huangbai liquid, providing a new direction for its treatment.
Prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio, and thrombocyte-lymphocyte ratio in critically ill patients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Arslan Kadir , Sahin Ayca Sultan
Published: July 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant health problem with a high mortality rate. Inflammatory markers can predict the prognosis of TBI where neuroinflammation is essential. In this study, the prognostic value of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) at admission in patients with critical TBI was investigated. Patients with moderately severe TBI in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a tertiary center between June 2020 and June 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were classified into survivor and mortality groups. The predictive performance of SII, PLR, and NLR levels calculated from blood results at admission and 28-day mortality and patient outcomes were analyzed. One hundred sixty-one patients were included in this study. The median age of the entire population was 41 (18–90) years, and 80.7% (n = 130) of the patients were male. Falls (42.2%) and traffic accidents (40.4%) were the most common causes of TBI. The most common primary diagnoses in patients with TBI were acute subdural hematoma (30.4%) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (26.1%). The SII and NLR levels were significantly higher in the mortality group, and PLR levels were significantly lower (P = .004, P < .001, P < .001, respectively). In multivariate regression analysis, SII and PLR were independent predictors of mortality (P = .031 and P < .001, respectively). In the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis, the cutoff value for SII was ≥ 2951, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.662 (95% CI, 0.540–0.784). The cutoff value for NLR was ≥ 9.85, AUC was 0.717 (95% CI, 0.600–0.834), and the cutoff value for PLR was ≤ 130.4, AUC was 0.871 (95% CI, 0.796–0.947). 28-day mortality was 21.1%. Neuroinflammation is essential in patients with critical TBI, and inflammatory markers SII, NLR, and PLR have prognostic importance. SII and PLR are independent predictors of mortality. Early detection of those with a poor prognosis in critically ill TBI patients and planning aggressive treatments may contribute to reducing mortality.