bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarker screening in preeclampsia: an RNA-sequencing approach based on data from multiple studies
Authors: Rezk Marlene , Grasegger Linda , Brandstetter Nina , Pol-Edern Le Renard , Stelzl Patrick , Oppelt Peter , Arbeithuber Barbara
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Biomarkers have become important in the prognosis and diagnosis of various diseases. High-throughput methods, such as RNA sequencing facilitate the detection of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), hence potential biomarker candidates. Individual studies suggest long lists of DEGs, hampering the identification of clinically relevant ones. Concerning preeclampsia – a major obstetric burden with high risk for adverse maternal and/or neonatal outcomes – limitations in diagnosis and prediction are still important issues. We, therefore, developed a workflow to facilitate the screening for biomarkers.

Methods:

On the basis of the tool DESeq2, a comprehensive workflow for identifying DEGs was established, analyzing data from several publicly available RNA-sequencing studies. We applied it to four RNA-sequencing datasets (one blood, three placenta) analyzing patients with preeclampsia and normotensive controls. We compared our results with other published approaches and evaluated their performance.

Results:

We identified 110 genes that are dysregulated in preeclampsia, observed in at least three of the studies analyzed, six even in all four studies. These included FLT-1, TREM-1, and FN1, which either represent established biomarkers at protein level, or promising candidates based on recent studies. For comparison, using a published meta-analysis approach, 5240 DEGs were obtained.

Conclusion:

This study presents a data analysis workflow for preeclampsia biomarker screening, capable of identifying promising biomarker candidates, while drastically reducing the numbers of candidates. Moreover, we were also able to confirm its performance for heart failure. This approach can be applied to additional diseases for biomarker identification, and the set of DEGs identified in preeclampsia represents a resource for further studies.
Comparison between cuff-based and invasive systolic blood pressure amplification
Authors: Bui Tan V. , Picone Dean S. , Schultz Martin G. , Armstrong Matthew K. , Peng Xiaoqing , Black J. Andrew , Dwyer Nathan , Roberts-Thomson Philip , Adams Heath , Hughes Alun D. , Sharman James E.
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Accurate measurement of central blood pressure (BP) using upper arm cuff-based methods is associated with several factors, including determining the level of systolic BP (SBP) amplification. This study aimed to determine the agreement between cuff-based and invasively measured SBP amplification.

Methods:

Patients undergoing coronary angiography had invasive SBP amplification (brachial SBP – central SBP) measured simultaneously with cuff-based SBP amplification using a commercially available central BP device (device 1: Sphygmocor Xcel; n = 171, 70% men, 60 ± 10 years) and a now superseded model of a central BP device (device 2: Uscom BP+; n = 52, 83% men, 62 ± 10 years).

Results:

Mean difference (±2SD, limits of agreement) between cuff-based and invasive SBP amplification was 4 mmHg (−12, +20 mmHg, P < 0.001) for device 1 and −2 mmHg (−14, +10 mmHg, P = 0.10) for device 2. Both devices systematically overestimated SBP amplification at lower levels and underestimated at higher levels of invasive SBP amplification, but with stronger bias for device 1 (r = −0.68 vs. r = −0.52; Z = 2.72; P = 0.008). Concordance of cuff-based and invasive SBP amplification across quartiles of invasive SBP amplification was low, particularly in the lowest and highest quartiles. The root mean square errors from regression between cuff-based central SBP and brachial SBP were significantly lower (indicating less variability) than from invasive regression models (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Irrespective of the difference from invasive measurements, cuff-based estimates of SBP amplification showed evidence of proportional systematic bias and had less individual variability. These observations could provide insights on how to improve the performance of cuff-based central BP.
Efficacy of radial extracorporeal shockwave therapy in rehabilitation following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: A STROBE compliant study
Authors: Kim Hyun-Joong , Choi Wonjae , Jung JiHye , Park SunGeon , Joo YoungLan , Lee Sangbong , Lee Seungwon
Published: September 2022

Rotator cuff tear is a common cause of shoulder pain and disability. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) is performed to treat a torn tendon. Postoperative joint immobilization is essential, but it is a problem that needs to be addressed in the rehabilitation process. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) in patients who underwent ARCR and required active movement after the immobilization period. This study was an open-label, prospective, single-arm trial of 30 inpatients aged >18 years who underwent ARCR. A total of 6 rESWT sessions, along with the conventional rehabilitation program for ARCR patients, were provided at the hospital’s sports rehabilitation center for 2 weeks. The application sites of rESWT are periscapular muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and rhomboid). Evaluations were conducted 3 time points—baseline, immediately after the first session of rESWT, and after 2 weeks of intervention. The outcome measures were the numeric pain rating scale for pain, and shoulder flexion, scaption flexion, abduction, horizontal adduction, external rotation, and internal rotation for shoulder range of motion. For shoulder function, disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand, shoulder pain and disability index, and simple shoulder test were used, and muscle strength was expressed by grip strength. supraspinatus and infraspinatus evaluated thickness, tone, and stiffness. The muscle strength (95% CI, –3.554 to –0.073) and supraspinatus tone (P = .017) showed significant changes immediately after the first session of rESWT. Further, there was significant improvement in ROM (P < .01); shoulder function (P < .01); and muscle strength (95% CI, –3.561 to –0.625), supraspinatus stiffness (95% CI, –67.455 to –26.345), and infraspinatus stiffness (P = .045) after 2 weeks of intervention. However, muscle thickness and tone were significantly improved only in supraspinatus (P = .044, P = .040). Rehabilitation with radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy additionally applied to the periscapular muscles in patients who started active movement in rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is effective for shoulder function and muscle properties (muscle strength, thickness, tone, and stiffness). However, a randomized controlled trial is needed to further assess the effects of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy alone.
Efficacy of Liriope platyphylla extract on improving respiratory function: A CONSORT-randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial
Authors: Won Eun Sol , Ku Yong Ho , Lee Eun Yi , Kim Il-Woung , Lee Hyun , Kang Jae Hui
Published: September 2022

Background:

The respiratory system is the first line of defense against outside pollutants. Recently, respiratory health has been receiving increasing attention due to the increase in fine dust, which reduces respiratory function and increases incidence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and in coronavirus pandemic, which can cause severe acute respiratory syndrome.

Methods:

This clinical pilot trial was designed to secure evidence for a main clinical trial and to confirm the efficacy and safety of Liriope platyphylla (LP) extract for improving respiratory function. We conducted a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial with 22 participants from June 30, 2021, to August 25, 2021. The primary outcome was Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale score. Secondary outcomes included forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1), forced expiratory volume at 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio, cough assessment test score, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease assessment test score, peripheral blood mononuclear cell counts (white blood cells, eosinophils, T cells, and B cells), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, cytokine (interleukin-1β, interleukin-4, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, interferon-γ, and immunoglobulin E) levels, antioxidant (glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) levels, and nitric oxide level.

Results:

A total of 22 participants were randomly assigned to 2 groups: the LP group (n = 11), who took 1000 mg of LP extract per day, and the placebo group, who took 1000 mg of dextrin per day. Participants took 1 capsule twice a day for 4 weeks. For the Breathlessness, Cough, and Sputum Scale, the interaction between group and visit was statistically significant in a blend of analyses of variance. interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and interferon-γ levels decreased more in the LP group than in the placebo group. The sample size required for large-scale clinical trials in the future was 50. There were no side effects.

Conclusion:

LP extract can enhance respiratory function. The detailed data we obtained support conducting the future main large-scale clinical trial.
Molecular mechanism of Sishen pills in the treatment of diarrheal diabetic enteropathy based on network pharmacology
Authors: Tao Yunxia , Li Chongchai , Gao Tianshu , Huo Jingjing
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness and safety of Sishen pills for the treatment of diarrheal diabetic enteropathy (DDE).

The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Systems Pharmacology and BATMAN-TCM databases were used to determine the chemical composition of Sishen pills and thus predict information on protein targets. We searched for potential targets of DDE in the GeneCards, DrugBank, Therapeutic Target (TTD), and DisGeNET databases. Using the intersection of the drug and disease targets, protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks and molecular interaction modules were constructed, and key targets were screened. The intersecting gene targets were imported into the Metascape database to conduct Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses. The core targets and active ingredients were then docked at the molecular level.

Sishen pills contain 70 active ingredients, 463 targets, and 566 disease targets. A module analysis of the targets revealed that the module was mainly related to adrenergic receptor activity, the adenosine phosphate kinase signaling pathway, and the G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment results indicated that the protein genes regulated by Sishen pills were mainly enriched in the response to lipopolysaccharides, the AMPK signaling pathway, the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, and other signaling pathways. The molecular docking results showed that the core active compounds exhibited good binding activity with the predicted targets.

Sishen pills can regulate the immune function of the body through anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects for the treatment of DDE.
Results of interferon-free treatment for HCV-infected patients with decompensated cirrhosis from a Brazilian real-life cohort
Authors: Victor Lívia , Perez Renata , Fernandes Flávia , Piedade Juliana , Villela-Nogueira Cristiane A. , Pereira Gustavo
Published: September 2022

Real-life data on the HCV treatment with direct-acting agents in patients with decompensated cirrhosis are scarce. Study to investigate the effectiveness and safety of sofosbuvir-containing regimens in a prospective cohort of patients with HCV decompensated cirrhosis. A total of 150 patients were enrolled (64% male, 84% genotype 1 with a mean age of 61 ± 9 years). The median MELD was 12, and 79% were Child-PughB. Most patients were treated with sofosbuvir and daclatasvir (98%) with ribavirin in 27%. The overall intention to treat SVR12 was 91% (137/150). The most frequent adverse event was anemia (17%), 73% associated with ribavirin. Twenty-one (14%) patients experienced renal dysfunction, 81% AKI I, and 1 discontinued treatment. Thirty-five (23%) patients presented at least 1 infectious episode, mainly respiratory tract infection (29%). Thirty-three patients (22%) had at least 1 episode of cirrhosis decompensation throughout treatment, particularly worsening of previous ascites in 19%. Nine patients died, and among those, 7 patients died from sepsis. The probability of decompensation in 28, 90 and 180 days was 4%, 19% and 25%. During treatment, infection (OR 2.24; 95 CI 1.09–4.61;P= .03) was a predictor of cirrhosis decompensation, and baseline MELD and CHILD ≥ B8 were both associated with infection. In decompensated cirrhosis, the overall virological response was high with mild adverse events. However, this population had a high frequency of liver-associated decompensation and infections.
Comparing the effects of continuous infusion of esmolol and ramosetron alone and in combination on nausea and vomiting after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A prospective, randomized, double-blind study
Authors: Ji Jae Young , Kim Nan Seol , Seo Yong Han , Jung Ho Soon , Chun Hea Rim , Park Jin Soo , Choi Jeong Soo , Ahn Jae Min , Kim Woo Jong
Published: September 2022

Background:

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a common complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Although PONV is usually mild, severe thing can delay recovery and prolong hospitalization. We aimed to investigate the effects of ramosetron and esmolol, alone and in combination, on PONV, and pain.

Methods:

We enrolled 165 patients in their 20s to 50s who had an American Society of Anesthesiology physical status score of 1 or 2 and were scheduled to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy. They were randomly allocated into 3 groups: groups R, E, and E+R. Patients in group R received 0.3 mg of ramosetron following surgery. Those in group E were intravenously administered a bolus of esmolol (1.0 mg/kg) before endotracheal intubation. They were continuously infused with esmolol during the surgery to maintain their heart rate at 60 to 100 beats per minute and mean blood pressure at 60 to 100 mm Hg, followed by a bolus of esmolol (1.0 mg/kg) following surgery. Patients in group E+R were intravenously administered a bolus of esmolol (1.0 mg/kg) before endotracheal intubation, infused esmolol during surgery, and administered 0.3 mg of ramosetron and a bolus of esmolol (1.0 mg/kg) following surgery. We monitored the PONV stages (none, nausea, retching, and vomiting) and symptom severity in 3 postoperative stages (0–30 minutes, 30 minutes to 6 hours, and 6–24 hours), the latter by using the visual analog scale (VAS). We conducted an analysis of variance to compare VAS scores between groups.

Results:

Patients in groups E (mean ± standard deviation VAS score, 3.62 ± 1.00) and E+R (3.66 ± 0.71) exhibited less pain (P < .05) until 30 minutes following surgery compared to group R (5.72 ± 1.41). More patients in group E (28/50, 56%) experienced nausea compared to those in groups R (15/50, 30%) and E+R (8/50, 16%) until 30 minutes after surgery (P < .05). However, there were no differences in the severity of retching and vomiting between the groups in any of the phases (P > .05).

Conclusion:

Despite reducing pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, esmolol did not prevent PONV, whether used alone or in combination with ramosetron.
Effects on venous flow of transcutaneous electrical stimulation, neuromuscular stimulation, and sham stimulation on soleus muscle: A randomized crossover study in healthy subjects
Authors: Senin-Camargo Francisco , Martínez-Rodríguez Alicia , Chouza-Insua Marcelo , Raposo-Vidal Isabel , Jácome M. Amalia
Published: September 2022

Background:

Activation of venous flow has been shown with different types of electrical stimulation. The aim of this study is to compare the hemodynamic effects of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), and sham stimulation on healthy young people.

Methods:

This randomized crossover study was conducted during June 2018 in the Faculty of Physical Therapy of A Coruña (Spain). Twenty-four university students (50% male) received in a randomized order 5 Hz-TENS, NMES, and sham stimulation on soleus muscle. Flow volume (FV) and peak velocity (PV) from popliteal vein were recorded via Doppler ultrasound, and relative changes from baseline were determined. Discomfort among the 3 stimulations was also compared.

Results:

The differences among the 3 stimulations were assessed using the ANOVA for repeated measured, the Friedman test and the Kendall tau test, according to the type of measurement to be compared. FV (mL/min) and PV (cm/s) increased significantly after NMES (percentual increase 37.2 ± 62.0%, P = .002; 264.4 ± 152.2%, P < .001, respectively) and TENS (226.2 ± 190.3%, P < .001; 202.7 ± 144.6%, P < .001, respectively). These percentual changes from basal level in hemodynamics were statistically different to those after placebo, which was ineffective enhancing hemodynamics. The improvements in FV were statistically higher with TENS than with NMES (P < .001), but there was no statistical difference in PV (P = .531). Despite NMES was applied at a significantly lower amplitude than TENS (P < .001), NMES protocol was the worst tolerated, though the differences in discomfort were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Both active electrical protocols but not sham stimulation increased hemodynamics in healthy people. TENS obtained higher flow volume increase from baseline than NMES, considered globally at not only in its on-time.
Family history of malignant tumor is a predictor of gastric cancer prognosis: Incorporation into a nomogram
Authors: Wang Fanke , Fan Liqiao , Zhao Qun , Liu Yu , Zhang Zhidong , Wang Dong , Zhao Xuefeng , Li Yong , Tan Bibo
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of a family history of malignant tumor on the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer and develop a nomogram that incorporates a family history of malignant tumor to predict overall survival (OS) in patients with gastric cancer to aid clinicians and patients in decision making. Four hundred eighty-eight patients with gastric cancer undergoing radical gastrectomy in our center were included and randomly split into a training set (n = 350) and a validation set (n = 138) at a ratio of 7:3. Cox univariate regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of clinicopathological characteristics and family history of malignant tumors on their prognosis, and variables were screened by multivariate Cox regression analysis and consensus on clinical evidence. A nomogram was constructed for OS based on the filtered variables, and the C-index, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve), and calibration curve were used to validate the nomogram and decision curve analysis curve (DCA curve) was used for clinical practicality assessment. Six variables related to OS, including the pathological differentiation degree, Lauren type, infiltration depth, lymph node metastasis, tumor deposit, and family history of malignant tumor, were screened to construct a nomogram. The nomogram developed in this study performed well in the training set and the validation set, with C-index of 0.776 and 0.757, and the area under the ROC curve(AUC) for predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates are 0.838, 0.850, 0.820 and 0.754, 0.789, 0.808, respectively. The calibration curve shows that the estimated death risk of the nomogram in the 2 data sets is very close to the actual death risk. The net benefits of nomogram-guided prediction of patient survival at 1-, 3-, and 5 years were demonstrated by the DCA curves, which showed high clinical practicability. Family history of malignant tumors is an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of patients with gastric cancer. The nomogram developed in this research can be used as an important tool to predict the prognosis of gastric cancer patients with family history data.
E-health literacy of nursing students and investigation of factors affecting e-health literacy during COVID-19 pandemic process: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Cetinkaya Senay , Askan Fahri , Gunes N. Ecem Oksal , Todil Tugba , Yuruk Emel
Published: September 2022

The lack of knowledge on health literacy affects all segments of society, particularly health workers.

The objectives were to identify nursing students’ means of accessing information during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, their level of health literacy, and the factors that affect it.

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Turkey among 398 nursing students of Çukurova University and Van Yüzüncü Yil University between June 1 and June 30, 2020. As a data collection tool, E-Health Literacy Scale was used, with students’ characteristics and personal information form related to Internet use. These forms were converted to the online format. The survey link was sent to the students’ smartphones and/or e-mails to ask them to participate.

Majority of participants were Van Yüzüncü Yil University nursing students (63.8%). E-SYO score average of all students was found to be 29.42 ± 4.39 (min = 14, max = 40); it was is found be at a good level. They used the Internet as the first source of information about coronavirus disease 2019 (65.1%).Among the participants, 65.8% stated that it was important to access the health resource on the Internet and 19.1% of the participants thought that it was very important. It was found that Internet use was being used for >3 times a day (72.9%). The age, class, gender, family type, income level, high school from which they graduated from, and their working status significantly were statistically affecting their health literacy (P < .05). The health literacy scale scores were significant and higher than those who did not know the concept of health literacy, and those who perceived Internet skills well and very well than those who perceived them poorly (P < .05).

Nursing students were found to have good average health literacy averages. Improving the health literacy is important for making individuals healthier.
Professional values and perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics in physical therapy students: A STROBE compliant cross-sectional study
Authors: Arnal-Gómez Anna , Muñoz-Gómez Elena , Espí-López Gemma Victoria , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Tolsada-Velasco Catalina , Marques-Sule Elena
Published: September 2022

Undergraduate students start the acquisition of a professional identity, and begin to achieve professional values and consciousness of an ethical behavior as future health professionals. The aim of this study was describe professional values and perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics of physical therapy students. A cross-sectional study was performed. A total of 351 students participated in the study. Professional values and perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics were assessed. Ethical approval was obtained from the University Ethics Review Board. The most important value was equity, while the least one was abnegation. The second educational year showed higher scores in importance of scientific quality (P = .010 vs first year), the third year in respect for life (P = .041 vs first year, respectively), and the fourth year in respect to patient’s autonomy (P = .033 vs first year). First-year students showed lower scores in perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics (P < .001 vs second, third, and fourth year), while second-year students had higher scores (P < .001 vs first and third; P = .006 vs fourth year) and no differences between third- and fourth-year students were found. Those professional values highly considered by the students were mainly shared professional values, with equity ranked highest and abnegation lowest. Furthermore, second-year students had a well-established perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics, showing significant higher scores when compared to the rest of the educational years. This is the first cross-sectional study that describes these variables among physical therapy students and it is a starting point for future. Physical therapy educators might want to take into account these findings when teaching and guiding students in developing awareness for their professional values and perception of knowledge regarding professional ethics.
Patterns of premenstrual syndrome in collegiate women: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Morino Saori , Hirata Hinako , Matsumoto Daisuke , Yokota Isao , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: September 2022

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of symptoms. The classification of these symptoms into several patterns is useful for more effective tailor-made treatment. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the patterns of PMS by analyzing multiple factors to identify the characteristics of each pattern. This is a cross-sectional study. A total of 165 women (18.9 ± 1.0 years) were investigated by using of questionnaire about PMS, nutrition, physical activity, and other lifestyle traits. Then, the factor analysis was performed to classify the premenstrual symptoms, that is, the pattern of PMS. Additionally, logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the characteristics of each pattern, adjusted for age, body mass index, sleep duration, and caffeine intake. As the result, PMS was classified into 3 patterns. The type related to psychological symptoms such as depression, physiological symptoms, such as abdominal pain, and intermingled type, were labeled as affected, somatic, and mixed types, respectively. From the result of logistic regression analysis, self-rating depression scale scoring was marginally associated with affective type (odds ratio [OR]: 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99–1.16), physical activity was significantly associated with the mixed type (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.00–1.28), and physical activity (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.05–1.36) and some nutrients (OR: 0.56–1.00) were significantly associated with the somatic type. Understanding PMS and management of these complicated symptoms has been difficult. From the results of this study, the complicated symptoms were categorized into simpler patterns. Our findings may contribute to the understanding and possible management adjusted for each categorized case of PMS.
Effectiveness of Mobiderm® bandages in the treatment of cancer-related secondary lymphedema: A pilot study
Authors: Cho Sung Cheol , Kwak Sang Gyu , Cho Hee Kyung
Published: September 2022

Secondary lymphedema is a clinically incurable disease that commonly occurs following surgical cancer treatment and/or radiation. One of the most common forms of lymphedema treatment is complete decongestive therapy (CDT). This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of new compression bandages (Mobiderm® bandages) in patients with secondary lymphedema after cancer treatment. This study included 17 patients with ipsilateral limb lymphedema after cancer treatment (one male and 16 female patients; age, 45–80 years). Patients were divided into the Mobiderm® bandage group (n = 9) and classical bandage group (n = 8). The International Society of Lymphology (ISL) stage was also evaluated. Limb circumference was measured at 5 to 6 sites per limb to identify the maximal circumference difference (MCD) between the affected and unaffected limbs. Pre-and posttreatment MCD were analyzed. After intensive CDT, both the Mobiderm® bandage group (1.2 ± 0.56 cm) and classical bandage group (0.85 ± 0.40 cm) had a significant decrease in MCD compared to pretreatment (P < .05). However, in patients with ISL stage 2, the mean MCD decrease rate was greater in the Mobiderm® bandage group (22.82 ± 10.92 %) than in the classical bandage group (12.18 ± 8.1 1%)(P = .045). Both new bandages (Mobiderm® bandages and classical bandages) reduced the circumference of limb edema in patients with secondary lymphedema after cancer treatment. This study findings suggest that Mobiderm® bandages as an alternative modality for controlling ISL stage 2 lymphedema.
The relative frequency of pruritus in postherpetic neuralgia patients presenting to the pain clinic and associative factors
Authors: Park Cheolhwan , John Hyunji , Lee Jaemoon , Hong Seungwan , Kim Minjung , Park Sangtae , Kim Jae Hun
Published: September 2022

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most common complication of herpes zoster, whereas postherpetic pruritus (PHP) a rare one. Although PHN has been extensively studied, few studies have investigated PHP. The purpose of this study was to investigate PHP incidence and associated factors in patients with PHN. This was a retrospective study of patients with PHN. A total of 645 patients were included. This study conducted in a single university hospital. Data included age, sex, height, weight, pain score, PHN site, medications, nerve blocks, and pulsed radiofrequency treatment. Data also included PHP onset and duration among those with PHP. We divided patients into 2 groups: the control group (group C), comprising those without PHP, and pruritus group (group P), comprising those with PHP. The correlation of PHP with other factors was analyzed. Of 207 patients, 58 were in group P whereas 149 in group C. The mean onset time and duration of PHP were 96.5 and 278.6 days, respectively. Pain scores were lower in group P than in group C after 3 and 4 months following vesicle formation. Patients with PHN in the trigeminal nerve had a higher incidence of PHP compared to those with PHN in others. Twenty-eight percent of patients with PHN developed PHP. At 3 and 4 months after vesicle formation, patients with PHP had greater pain improvement compared to those without. Patients with PHN in the trigeminal nerve also had a higher incidence of PHP compared to others.
Transcranial direct current stimulation in the treatment of anxiety and depression in patients with oral cancer during perioperative period
Authors: Gao Zhi-biao , Zhang Wen-juan , Tuo Rui , Xiao Xia , Cao Wei-jing
Published: September 2022

This study retrospectively investigated the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the treatment of anxiety and depression in patients with oral cancer (OC) during the perioperative period (PPP). This retrospective study reviewed the electronic medical records of patients who underwent OC surgery and experienced anxiety and depression during PPP. The patients were divided into the treatment (n = 36) and control (n = 36) groups. The patients in the treatment group received tDCS, whereas those in the control group did not receive tDCS. The primary outcomes included the Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS). Secondary outcomes included adverse events (AEs). We analyzed the outcome data before and after treatment. After treatment, patients in the treatment group achieved greater relief in SAS (P < .01) and SDS (P < .01) scores than those in the control group. Regarding safety, no electronic medical records reported any AEs in this study. The results of this study showed that tDCS may help relieve depression and anxiety in patients with OC during PPP. However, high-quality prospective randomized controlled trials are required to confirm these findings.
Acupotomy combined with intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Chai Ya-peng , Han Xiao-qiang , Cui Jun-zhi
Published: September 2022

This retrospective study aimed to compare the effects of acupotomy combined with intra-articular injection of sodium hyaluronate (IA-SH) for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Eighty electronic medical records of patients with KOA were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into an intervention group (n = 40, acupotomy plus IA-SH) and a control group (n = 40, IA-SH). Outcome measures included the visual analog scale, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), and adverse events. Outcome data were collected and analyzed before and after treatment. The results of this study showed that there was a greater reduction in the visual analog scale (P < .01) and WOMAC scores (pain, P < .01; stiffness, P < .01; function, P < .01; total, P < .01) in the intervention group than in the control group. In addition, there were no significant differences in adverse events between the 2 groups. In this study, the effects of acupotomy plus IA-SH were superior to those of IA-SH alone for the treatment of patients with KOA. Further prospective studies are required to confirm these findings.
Improved inhaler handling after repeated inhalation guidance for elderly patients with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Usami Osamu
Published: September 2022

Accurate evaluation of inhaler handling is essential for improved treatment of bronchial asthma (BA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Many studies have described the correlation between age, inhalation guidance, and procedure improvement. Elderly patients should receive proper inhalation guidance. This was a retrospective open cohort study conducted at a single hospital with outpatient open pharmacies that provided inhalation guidance to patients of BA and COPD. A total of 525 cases were included in the study. The median age was 71 years with no significant difference between genders (males: 71 ± 16.0 years; females: 72 ± 16.1 years; P = .24). There were 226 males (43.0%) and 299 females (57.0%; P = .03). BA was significantly more prevalent than COPD (P < .001). There was no significant difference in dry powder inhaler (DPI) and pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) visits in those <60 years of age (P = .23). pMDI was used significantly more often than DPI in those aged 60 to 90 years of age (P < .001). In both <70 and >70 years of age, the most common error with DPI use was improper inhalation speed, which reduced (improved) at the third visit. Gargling errors were most common with DPI use at the second visit and with pMDI at the first visit in both age groups, which subsequently reduced rapidly. Continuous repeated guidance steadily and significantly decreased errors with all devices (P < .001 for DPI, pMDI, and soft mist inhaler). Elderly cases (>70 years of age) should undergo continuous repeated guidance to reduce inhalation errors like inhalation speed and gargling errors.
Effect of intraoperative intravenous ferric derisomaltose supplementation on reduction of postoperative anemia and transfusion in chronic kidney disease patients after total knee replacement
Authors: Kwon Jae Hyun , Cho Yong Hyun , Jang Won , Kim Sun Hee , Ko Hyun Cheol , Ko Woo Hyeong , Kim Young Do
Published: September 2022

Total knee replacement (TKR) is associated with a large amount of bleeding; therefore, the prevalence of postoperative anemia is high. In particular, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are more vulnerable to postoperative anemia than are healthy individuals. Accordingly, the effect of intraoperative intravenous ferric derisomaltose (FDI) supplementation on postoperative anemia and blood transfusion volume reduction in patients with CKD was studied. Patients who underwent unilateral TKR between January 2019 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. In analyzing the data, the patients fell into the CKD group (n = 85) and the non-CKD group (n = 106). Each group was divided into a group using FDI and a non-FDI group, and classified into 4 groups. The postoperative hemoglobin level for each postoperative day (POD) was determined as the primary outcome. In addition, the patient transfusion rate, volume of transfusion, and length of hospital stay were set as secondary study outcomes during the period from surgery to discharge. There was no statistically significant difference in hemoglobin levels on PODs 0, 1, 2, 7, and 14 in the CKD group. In the CKD group, the transfusion volume of the FDI group was 0.58 ± 0.91 units per person, which was statistically significantly lower than 1.28 ± 1.28 units of the non-FDI group (P = .01). In the CKD group, the transfusion rate of the FDI group was 30.2%, which was statistically significantly lower than that of the non-FDI group, which was 56.3% (P = .02). This study showed that intravenous FDI supplementation after TKR in CKD patients did not reduce postoperative anemia but was an effective and safe treatment to reduce transfusion volume and transfusion rate. There was no statistically significant difference in hemoglobin levels on POD 0, 1, 2, 7, and 14 in the non-CKD group. In the non-CKD group, the transfusion volume of the FDI group was 0.46 ± 0.88 units per person, which was lower than the 0.56 ± 0.91 units of the non-FDI group, but it was not statistically significant (P = .59). In the non-CKD group, the transfusion rate of the FDI group was 23.0%, which was lower than that of the non-FDI group, which was 31.3%, but it was not statistically significant (P = .37).
Thrombocytosis predicts poor prognosis of Asian patients with colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xia Shijun , Wu Wenjiang , Yu Linchong , Ma Lijuan , Chen Shiwei , Wang Hao
Published: September 2022

Background:

There is no study analyzing and evaluating the prognostic role of thrombocytosis in Asian patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods:

A systematic search of articles (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) was performed to identify studies using the terms Platelet count, Thrombocytosis, Thrombocytoses, Thrombocythemia or Thrombocythemias with colon, colonic, rectal, rectum, colorectal and prognostic, prognosis, survival or outcome.

Results:

Thirteen eligible studies with 3964 patients were included. Thrombocytosis was associated with a poorer overall survival (HR of 1.88 [95% CI: 1.24–2.85; P = .003] with univariate analyses, HR of 2.07 [95% CI: 1.2–3.56; P = .008] with multivariate analyses), disease-free survival (HR of 2.58 [95% CI: 1.87–3.57; P < .00001] with multivariate analyses) and cancer specific survival (HR of 2.55 [95% CI: 1.68–3.85; P < .00001]) in Asian patients with CRC. Thrombocytosis had a significant association with female gender, tumor location in the colon, higher pathological T-stage, pathological positive N-stage, but not with lymphatic involvement and venous involvement.

Conclusion:

The present meta-analysis demonstrates that thrombocytosis is a potentially useful tool for predicting poor survival in Asian patients with CRC, especially for overall survival.
Cellular angiofibroma of the vagina: A case report and literature review
Authors: Cai Xia-Qin , Ye Xi-Gang , Zhang Ya-Zhen , Shen Zeng-Li , Hong Ke , Zhang Shu-Zhi
Published: September 2022

Background:

Cellular angiofibroma (CAF), a rare benign mesenchymal tumor, is histologically characterized by abundant thick-walled vessels with a spindle cell component. As one of the female reproductive system tumors, its clinical and pathological features are not well characterized.

Methods:

A 47-year-old woman presented for the removal of intrauterine device on October 28, 2021, as she had achieved menopause one year back. The patient had no discomfort or awareness of any mass in her vagina. She has history of breast cancer and papillary thyroid cancer. Till date, no progression of thyroid cancer or breast cancer has been observed. Her menstrual cycle was regular, and she had one child delivered vaginally.

Results:

Pelvic examination revealed a mass sized 2.5 × 2.0 cm located near the fornix in the upper segment of the left vaginal wall. Thin prep cytologic test (TCT) revealed negative intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM). HPV test was negative and leucorrhea routine inspection cleanliness II degree. No cervical mass was detected by ultrasound examination. The patients underwent the operation for intrauterine device removal plus vaginal tumor resection on November 1, 2021. Postoperative antibiotics (intravenous cefuroxime sodium 0.75 g bid for 1 day) were administered to prevent infection. The patient showed no signs of recurrence at one-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

In summary, CAF is a rare benign soft tissue tumor. Surgery is the only treatment method, and the definitive diagnosis of CAF is based on histopathological examination of surgical specimen. Long-term follow-up is needed for surveillance of recurrence.
15-Year progression to liver cancer in the lack of treatment for lysosomal acid lipase deficiency: A case report
Authors: Cunha-Silva Marlone , de França Eloy Vianey Carvalho , Veiga Clauber Teles , Greca Raquel Dias , de Moraes Priscilla Brito Sena , de Campos Mazo Daniel Ferraz , de Ataíde Elaine Cristina , Perales Simone Reges , Monici Leonardo Trevizan , Sevá-Pereira Tiago
Published: September 2022

Rationale:

Lysosomal acid lipase deficiency (LAL-D) is a poorly diagnosed genetic disorder characterized by the accumulation of cholesteryl esters and triglycerides in many tissues, leading to dyslipidemia and cardiovascular complications. In the liver, deposits are found within hepatocytes and Kupffer cells, generating microvesicular steatosis, progressive fibrosis, and cirrhosis. Sebelipase alfa is the target therapy which can improve laboratory changes and reduce the progression of liver damage, but this is not yet widely available.

Patient Concerns:

We are reporting a 15-year follow-up of a Brazilian man who was diagnosed with cirrhosis at age 43 and with LAL-D at age 53, but he has never been treated with sebelipase alfa for economic reasons. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, he lost follow-up and missed three 6-month ultrasound exams for liver cancer screening.

Diagnosis:

At age 58, a remarkable deterioration in liver function was observed and he was diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) outside the Milan Criteria (two nodules measuring 48mm and 25mm). Three other individuals with LAL-D and progression to liver cancer have been reported so far and none of them underwent enzyme replacement therapy: an 11-year-old girl with HCC, a 51-year-old male with cholangiocarcinoma, and a 21-year-old male with hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma. The latter had the same mutation in the gene LIPA as our patient, but a relationship between this variant and malignancies has not yet been established.

Lessons:

We emphasize how important is to treat LAL-D patients after diagnosis in order to avoid worsening liver function and progression to neoplasms. Untreated individuals should be considered at a higher risk but the most appropriate liver cancer screening program for this subgroup is still unknown.
A case report of secondary synchronous diagnosis of multiple myeloma and systemic lupus erythematosus after breast cancer treatment: A CARE-compliant article
Authors: Chen Pei-Hsin , Tung Heng-Hsin , Lin Chin-Husan , Huang Kuan-Po , Ni Yung-Lun , Lin Chin-Yao
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide. Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematologic malignancy characterized by the overproduction of monoclonal antibodies in the bone marrow. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is distinguished by the aberrant activity of the immune system with heterogeneous clinical manifestations. The coexistence of more than one major illness in a patient can present a diagnostic challenge for clinical physicians, especially when the comorbid diseases share a similar clinical presentation. Herein, we report an unusual case of secondary synchronous diagnosis of MM and SLE after BC treatment.

Patient concerns:

A 69-year-old female patient with breast cancer experienced severe skin itching and rashes on the face, anterior chest wall, back, and trunk for two days before admission. She had high levels of immunoglobulin and anti-nuclear antibodies; low levels of complements 3 and 4; positive anti-cardiolipin-IgM, anti-beta 2 glycoprotein-1 (anti-β2GP1) antibodies, and lupus anticoagulant results at serological testing.

Diagnosis:

The postoperative pathology report showed ductal carcinoma in situ in the right breast. SLE was confirmed based on the 2019 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology (EULAR/ACR) criteria. IgG-κ type multiple myeloma was confirmed by bone marrow biopsy, and the patient was synchronously diagnosed with SLE and MM after BC treatment.

Interventions:

Glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents, including intravenous hydrocortisone (5 g every 8 hours) and oral hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) (200 mg twice daily) were administered to treat SLE. One capsule of thalidomide 50 mg was administered orally every night at bedtime for MM.

Outcomes:

The patient died two days later, shortly after the administration of drugs, due to multiple organ failures secondary to pneumonia and respiratory failure.

Conclusion:

This is a case of MM and SLE after BC treatment. The present challenge was the early detection and accurate diagnosis of the secondary major illnesses, as the clinical manifestations were similar and non-specific between these two diseases. Awareness and prompt recognition of the common clinical symptoms of SLE and MM should be considered by clinical physicians to avoid delayed diagnoses and facilitate early treatment for a better prognosis.
Therapeutic experience of a pancreatic mixed serous neuroendocrine neoplasm invading peripancreatic vessels: A case report
Authors: Zhang Zongming , Liu Limin , Li Youwei , Liu Zhuo , Zhang Chong , Zhao Yue , Zhu Mingwen , Wan Baijiang , Deng Hai , Xie Xiyuan , Tian Kun , Guo Zhentian , Yang Haiyan , Liao Jiahong , Zhu Hongyan , Liu Lili , Wang Man , Ma Xiaoting , Liu Tiantian , Huang Niuniu , Gao Yujiao , Zhao Jing , Liao Fang , Li Fengyuan , Wang Xueting , Yuan Ruijiao , Liu Xinying , Chang Lidan
Published: September 2022

Rationale:

Pancreatic mixed serous neuroendocrine neoplasm (PMSNN) is an extremely rare disease. Only a few cases on the surgical treatment of PMSNN have been reported in the literature, and it is unclear whether there is invasion of important peripancreatic vessels.

Patient concerns:

We report the case of a 39-year-old female patient with PMSNN accompanied by invasion of important peripancreatic vessels. She underwent surgery and achieved satisfactory recovery.

Diagnosis:

Abdominal enhanced CT images showed an enhanced mass with a nonenhanced cyst involving the head and body of the pancreas, which invaded important peripancreatic vessels. The lesion had been misdiagnosed and mistreated as a metastatic carcinoma before admission.

Interventions:

CT 3-dimensional (3D) visualization reconstruction images showed intact peripancreatic vessels. Radical pancreatoduodenectomy was successfully performed and confirmed that the main blood vessels around the pancreas were only compressed or even wrapped by the mass, but not penetrated.

Outcomes:

The patient recovered well and was discharged on the 19th day after surgery. Pathological examination reported the diagnosis of PMSNN with the collision type combination and the well-differentiated grade 2 pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. She was followed up for 18 months without any abnormalities.

Lessons:

This case demonstrates that surgical treatment of PMSNN with invasion of peripancreatic vessels can be successful. Preoperative abdominal CT 3D visualization reconstruction is helpful in determining the degree of invasion of important peripancreatic vessels, and plays a key role in formulating an accurate surgical plan and improving patient outcome.