bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An incisional hernia containing a gangrenous gallbladder: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Backen Timbre , Crawley W Tyler , Bouchard Travis , Quan Glenda
Published: December 2022

We present a 76-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with 24 hours of sudden onset, severe abdominal pain. Physical exam and laboratory analysis indicated acute cholecystitis, and a CT scan demonstrated a ventral hernia containing an inflamed gallbladder. This patient was managed operatively with an open cholecystectomy. The ventral hernia was not repaired at the index operation in the setting of frank gallbladder necrosis. The patient recovered well after a short post-operative stay. This report is intended to illustrate an unusual presentation of acute, gangrenous cholecystitis with herniation through the ventral abdominal wall.
Single stage chest wall soft tissue reconstruction with ipsilateral pectoralis major turnover flap, rhomboid skin flap, and inferior nipple transposition
Authors: Thng Coeway Boulder , Kok Yee Onn , Feng Jiajun , Wong Allen Wei-Jiat
Published: December 2022

Extravasation injury is a well-known complication of central venous catheter placement, with potential for extensive soft tissue necrosis. Here, we describe the case of a patient who developed a large right chest well soft tissue defect, due to a chest wall abscess from calcium gluconate infusion via a right internal jugular central venous catheter. After multiple debridements, the chest wall defect was reconstructed with a single stage ipsilateral pectoralis major turnover flap, rhomboid skin flap, and inferior nipple transposition to match the contralateral nipple. There was no further infection, no nipple necrosis, and patient regained full range of motion of the ipsilateral shoulder.
Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma—a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Abdul Razzak Saad , Awan Faisal , Ahmed Salman
Published: December 2022

Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer originating primarily from the peritoneum with a poor prognosis and non-specific clinical presentation. We present a case of a 60-year-old male, retired metallurgy engineer who initially presented with shortness of breath, lethargy, weight loss, vague abdominal pain and night sweats. Extensive workup for almost 2 months finally leads to the diagnosis of primary malignant peritoneal mesothelioma based on immunohistochemical analysis of loss of BAP1 gene. The patient was deemed non-suitable for surgical management and started on palliative carboplatin and pemetrexed. In conclusion, histological diagnosis is essential for peritoneal diseases before considering it as a metastasis from other primary tumours. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis and genetic profiling may also guide towards the diagnosis and possible treatment.
Large, infected Cowper’s syringoceles: a rare cause of perineal sepsis in adult men
Authors: Adasonla Kelvin , Pathak Sandeep , Li Chi-Ying
Published: December 2022

Urologists and general surgeons alike are familiar with assessing acute perineal pathology. A Cowper’s gland syringocele is a rare cystic dilatation of the male bulbourethral gland, typically seen in children. We report the diagnosis and emergency management of two adult cases of large, infected Cowper’s gland syringoceles. A comorbid 76-year old was diagnosed with sepsis and penile swelling, but there was no discrete superficial pathology. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a perineal collection communicating with the membranous urethra. A suprapubic catheter was inserted, and aspiration was attempted. Meanwhile, a 55-year-old diabetic presented with severe perineal pain. MRI revealed a deep perineal collection, involving the scrotum and proximal penis. He improved with antibiotics and aspiration of the collection. This rare diagnosis may be more common in older men than previously thought. Pelvic MRI is a key diagnostic tool. A minimally invasive approach is possible in those with considerable perioperative risk.
Decoding the puzzle: Chinese culture, familial transfers, and disputes in Western courts
Authors: Liao Zhixiong (Leo)
Published: December 2022

More and more Chinese live in Western countries nowadays and many disputes over transfers between Chinese family members are brought to Western courts. Generally, little documentary evidence on such transactions is available and the oral evidence is commonly divergent as to what was agreed and what happened. Western judges are faced with the puzzle whether the transfer was a gift, a loan, or an equity investment. This article elaborates on the relevant Chinese cultural dimensions and the recent developments. It discusses the cultural relevance in determining the nature of such transfers and investigates whether clearly established Chinese cultural norms could be admissible evidence aiding the interpretation, or even implied terms, of the transaction. It argues that Chinese culture should be seriously considered in assessing the credibility of Chinese witnesses. This article critiques the prevailing common law presumptions, and proposes an analytical model aiming to assist Western judges and lawyers to assess the cultural influence properly for better answers to the puzzles.
Are human rights ‘toothless’ in Australian child protection matters? Perspectives of lawyers and social workers
Authors: Walsh Tamara , Healy Karen , Venables Jemma , Thompson Kate
Published: December 2022

Human rights law is in its infancy in Australia. Some states and territories have human rights legislation that requires government officials to take human rights into account in decision-making. However, there is very little Australian case law or commentary regarding the application of human rights law to child protection matters. In this article, we discuss the potential for human rights law to influence decision-making in child protection. We interviewed lawyers and social workers who support parents in child protection matters in the state of Queensland to determine whether they thought rights-based advocacy could bring about better outcomes for their clients. Whilst some social workers were optimistic about the potential for human rights advocacy to improve outcomes for parents, lawyers generally believed that human rights law was unlikely to assist. Jurisprudence from other jurisdictions demonstrates that human rights arguments can influence outcomes in child protection matters, so additional human rights training may be needed for lawyers and judicial officers in Australia to encourage consideration of human rights in child protection cases.
A case of neuropathic arthropathy of the elbow with early loosening after total elbow arthroplasty
Authors: Nakamura Hiroshi , Iwamoto Takuji , Kimura Hiroo , Suzuki Taku , Matsumura Noboru , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya
Published: December 2022

We reported the case of a 65-year-old woman who presented with neuropathic arthropathy of the elbow and had undergone cervical spinal cord tumour resection at 32 years of age. Open synovectomy with free-body resection was performed; however, the instability of the elbow joint rapidly progressed. Therefore, we performed total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) using a linked-type prosthesis. However, the humeral stem became severely loosened 1 year after arthroplasty. Furthermore, a periprosthetic humeral fracture developed due to a minor trauma. A revision TEA using a long-stem prosthesis was performed 4 years after the primary TEA. Radiographs taken 2 years after the revision surgery showed no evidence of implant loosening. In this case, early postoperative loosening occurred despite the use of a linked-type prosthesis and an appropriate cementing technique, suggesting that normal implants may not provide sufficient fixation for neuropathic arthropathy of the elbow. Since surgery for neuropathic arthropathy generally has a poor prognosis, surgical interventions including TEA should be carefully considered.
NAC32 alleviates magnesium toxicity-induced cell death through positive regulation of XIPOTL1 expression
Authors: Sun Liangliang , Zhang Ping , Xing Menglu , Li Ruishan , Yu Hao , Ju Qiong , Yang Jianli , Xu Jin
Published: December 2022

Abscisic acid–inducible NAC32 alleviates magnesium toxicity-mediated cell death in roots through direct regulation of XIPOTL1 expression in Arabidopsis.
Utilizing a High-Fidelity COVID-19 Simulation to Develop Collaboration Skills Among Multispecialty Cohorts
Authors: Crawford Julie M. , Lee Ashley H.
Published: December 2022

Nursing students rarely have the opportunity to witness nurse-to-nurse collaboration with nurses from differing specialties. Simulation can provide students with an opportunity to practice this important skill. In this simulation, students from a critical care course and students from a maternal/newborn course worked together to care for a pregnant client with COVID-19. The client’s condition required expertise from both an obstetrical nurse and a critical care nurse. Although the design of the simulation was aimed at collaboration, various other important observations and teaching moments were uncovered during the implementation of the simulation.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Shunt Detection With Bubble Studies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Odenbach Jeffrey , Dhanoa Sumeet , Sebastianski Meghan , Milovanovic Lazar , Robinson Andrea , Mah Graham , Rewa Oleksa G. , Bagshaw Sean M. , Buchanan Brian , Lau Vincent I.
Published: December 2022

OBJECTIVE:

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening respiratory injury with multiple physiological sequelae. Shunting of deoxygenated blood through intra- and extrapulmonary shunts may complicate ARDS management. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to determine the prevalence of sonographically detected shunts, and their association with oxygenation and mortality in patients with ARDS.

DATA SOURCES:

Medical literature analysis and retrieval system online, Excerpta Medica dataBASE, Cochrane Library, and database of abstracts of reviews of effects databases on March 26, 2021.

STUDY SELECTION:

Articles relating to respiratory failure and sonographic shunt detection.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Articles were independently screened and extracted in duplicate. Data pertaining to study demographics and shunt detection were compiled for mortality and oxygenation outcomes. Risk of bias was appraised using the Joanna-Briggs Institute and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tools with evidence rating certainty using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

From 4,617 citations, 10 observational studies met eligibility criteria. Sonographic detection of right-to-left shunt was present in 21.8% of patients (range, 14.4–30.0%) among included studies using transthoracic, transesophageal, and transcranial bubble Doppler ultrasonographies. Shunt prevalence may be associated with increased mortality (risk ratio, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.01–1.49; p = 0.04, very low certainty evidence) with no difference in oxygenation as measured by Pao
2:Fio
2 ratio (mean difference, –0.7; 95% CI, –18.6 to 17.2; p = 0.94, very low certainty).

CONCLUSIONS:

Intra- and extrapulmonary shunts are detected frequently in ARDS with ultrasound techniques. Shunts may increase mortality among patients with ARDS, but its association with oxygenation is uncertain.
A Cross-sectional Study on the Unmet Supportive Care Needs of Cancer Patients Under the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Cheung Denise Shuk Ting , Takemura Naomi , Lui Helen Yun-Fong , Chang Wen-Pei , Chiang Chi-Leung , Mui Wing-Ho , Ng Alina Yee Man , Chau Pui Hing , Lee Anne Wing Mui , Lin Chia-Chin
Published: December 2022

Background:

Research on unmet supportive care needs in Chinese populations, where most governments have been adopting zero-tolerance policies on COVID-19, unlike Western countries, is lacking.

Objective:

To examine the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare services and unmet supportive care needs in cancer survivors during the pandemic in Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Methods:

This was multicenter, cross-sectional survey conducted in 469 adult cancer survivors in 2021. Primary outcome measurement was the Supportive Care Needs Survey short form.

Results:

Less than 10% respondents reported that the COVID pandemic has affected hospital treatment or follow-up. For unmet supportive care needs, the highest mean scores were found in the health system & information domain, followed by psychological domain. Multivariate linear regression models showed significant associations between age, gender, geographical location, time since diagnosis, treatment status, and worry about getting infected and cancer survivors’ unmet supportive care needs.

Conclusions:

Despite the pandemic having little influence overall on health services, unmet supportive care needs in the psychological domain seem to be higher under the pandemic. High levels of unmet supportive care needs were also identified in the health system & information domain.

Implications for Practice:

Cancer services should seek to fulfill unmet psychological needs of cancer survivors. Qualitative studies are warranted to deepen our understanding of patients’ evolving needs during the pandemic and beyond to inform practice change.

What is Foundational:

Supportive care needs is an important area to inform optimal cancer services delivery. Demographic and disease-related characteristics are associated with unmet supportive care needs.
Living With Ovarian Cancer: Transitions Lost in Translation
Authors: Gissum Karen Rosnes , Drageset Sigrunn , Thomsen Liv Cecilie Vestrheim , Bjørge Line , Strand Roger
Published: December 2022

Background:

Living with ovarian cancer involves uncertainty, fear of recurrence, and premature death while preparing for a life after treatment. The women depend on health care professionals while moving from being healthy to experiencing ovarian cancer.

Objective:

To explore experiences of women living with ovarian cancer and their interactions with health care professionals.

Methods:

Five focus group interviews were conducted with the same 4 women, between 2018 and 2020. The interviews were analyzed using systematic text condensation.

Results:

Living with ovarian cancer involved a set of transitions from health to illness and disease. These transitions were difficult for the women to articulate to health care professionals, friends and family, and to themselves. All participants expressed the experiencing of existential and emotional chaos and paradoxes. As their illness developed, it impacted their ability to articulate changes to their body and sense of self and to their own identity negatively. Consequently, the women felt that their ability to communicate their needs to others, including to health care professionals, deteriorated as the disease progressed.

Conclusions:

Women living with ovarian cancer experience transitions lost in translation within themselves and in communication with persons in their personal, familial, and medical realms.

Implications for Practice:

A better understanding of their existential suffering and how it is easily lost in translation may refine care and support for these women throughout their illness and disease trajectory.

Foundational:

Communicating and understanding illness and disease in ovarian cancer is essential to provide personalized care and support to ovarian cancer patients.
Why Do Adult Patients With Cancer Not Seek Help for Their Depressive Symptoms? The Role of Illness Perceptions, Coping, and Social Support
Authors: Bickel Esmée A. , Fleer Joke , Ranchor Adelita V. , Schroevers Maya J.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Up to 75% of cancer patients with depressive symptoms do not make use of psychological care.

Objective:

To examine how perceptions of and coping with depressive symptoms and perceived social support in adults with cancer are associated with their need for psychological care, concurrently and over time.

Methods:

In this longitudinal study, 127 participants who received a cancer diagnosis in the past 5 years, experienced at least moderate depressive symptoms, and were not receiving psychological help, completed 2 self-report questionnaires (3 months apart) including the brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory and Social Support List.

Results:

Participants with stronger belief in the efficacy of psychological care and more likely to use avoidant coping reported a greater need for psychological care at both data points. Social support was not significantly associated with perceived need for psychological care.

Conclusions:

Stronger perceived treatment control and greater use of avoidant coping were significantly associated with a greater perceived need for psychological care.

Implications for practice:

People with cancer may benefit from being informed about the efficacy of depression treatment. Furthermore, health care professionals should be aware that avoidant coping may complicate psychological care seeking for a group of adults with cancer experiencing depressive symptoms and having a need for psychological care.

Foundational:

Illness perceptions and coping mechanisms can predict cancer patients’ need for psychological care. Providing information about treatment options and its efficacy, together with targeting avoidant coping may increase adequate decision-making and possibly the uptake of psychological care.
Different Gene Sets Are Associated With Azacitidine Response In Vitro Versus in Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients
Authors: Le Pannérer Marguerite-Marie , Diesch Jeannine , Casquero Raquel , Maher Michael , Garcia Olga , Haferlach Torsten , Zuber Johannes , Kündgen Andrea , Götze Katharina S. , Buschbeck Marcus
Published: December 2022

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a heterogeneous group of hematopoietic disorders characterized by dysplasia, ineffective hematopoiesis, and predisposition to secondary acute myeloid leukemias (sAML). Azacitidine (AZA) is the standard care for high-risk MDS patients not eligible for allogenic bone marrow transplantation. However, only half of the patients respond to AZA and eventually all patients relapse. Response-predicting biomarkers and combinatorial drugs targets enhancing therapy response and its duration are needed. Here, we have taken a dual approach. First, we have evaluated genes encoding chromatin regulators for their capacity to modulate AZA response. We were able to validate several genes, whose genetic inhibition affected the cellular AZA response, including 4 genes encoding components of Imitation SWItch chromatin remodeling complex pointing toward a specific function and co-vulnerability. Second, we have used a classical cohort analysis approach measuring the expression of a gene panel in bone marrow samples from 36 MDS patients subsequently receiving AZA. The gene panel included the identified AZA modulators, genes known to be involved in AZA metabolism and previously identified candidate modulators. In addition to confirming a number of previously made observations, we were able to identify several new associations, such as NSUN3 that correlated with increased overall survival. Taken together, we have identified a number of genes associated with AZA response in vitro and in patients. These groups of genes are largely nonoverlapping suggesting that different gene sets need to be exploited for the development of combinatorial drug targets and response-predicting biomarkers.
The chronological changes in the seroprevalence of anti-hepatitis A virus IgG from 2005 to 2019: Experience at four centers in the capital area of South Korea
Authors: Lim Dae Hyun , Sohn Won , Jeong Jae Yoon , Oh Hyunwoo , Lee Jae Gon , Yoon Eileen L. , Kim Tae Yeob , Nam Seungwoo , Sohn Joo Hyun
Published: December 2022

Although universal vaccination has been administered to toddlers, South Korea has had periodic nationwide outbreaks of acute hepatitis A since the late 2000s. We examined the chronological changes in the seroprevalence of anti-hepatitis A virus (HAV) immunoglobulin G (IgG) over the past 15 years (2005–2019). We retrospectively collected data from 45,632 subjects who underwent anti-HAV IgG testing without evidence of acute HAV infection at four centers in the capital area of South Korea between January 2005 and December 2019. The seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG was analyzed according to age and compared among seven age groups and five time periods. Additionally, age-period-cohort analyses were used to identify the age, period, and cohort effects of the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG. The mean age of the enrolled subjects was 39.2 ± 19.2 years, and the average anti-HAV IgG positivity rate was 66.4%. During the 15 years, the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in people aged 0 to 19 years significantly increased over time (P < .001). In people aged 20 to 29 years, the seroprevalence slightly decreased to that of the early 2010s (31.3% in 2005–2007 to 19.7% in 2011–2013) but rebounded to 39.5% in 2017 to 2019. In contrast, the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in those aged 30 to 49 years decreased over time (P < .001). The seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in those aged 20 to 39 years in 2017 to 2019 was still less than 40%. In addition, the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in people aged 50 to 59 years has recently decreased. Since the introduction of the universal vaccination, the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in children and young adults has gradually increased. However, the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in people in their 20s remains low, and the seroprevalence of anti-HAV IgG in people in their 30s and 40s is gradually decreasing. Therefore, a new strategy for HAV vaccination is needed for those in their 20s to 40s.
Epidemiology of upper extremity peripheral nerve injury in South Korea, 2008 to 2018
Authors: Kim Sung Jae , Kwon Young Min , Ahn Sang Min , Lee Jang Hoon , Lee Chang-Hun
Published: December 2022

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNIs) in the upper extremities is an important medical problem, causing significant morbidity at a relatively young age. The epidemiology of PNI in South Korea has not been comprehensively evaluated. The purpose of our study was to examine the incidence of upper extremity PNI in South Korea based on an analysis of nationwide data and to investigate the association between PNI and patients’ demographic characteristics. Patient claims data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service from 2008 to 2018 were collected. Demographic characteristics, such as the age, sex, region, admission route, length of hospital stay, healthcare facility level, and cost were evaluated. Annual incidence, body sites affected, damaged nerves, accompanying injuries, and surgical procedures were analyzed. Annual incidence trends, injured anatomical area, seasonal injury trends, and injury trend according to sex were also evaluated. A total of 57,209 cases were identified during the study period. Mean age was 39.7 ± 16.3 years. Of these cases, 51,651 (90.28%) were surgically treated. About 79% of accompanying injuries occurred in the hand area (hand lacerations, 69.5%; fractures or joint dislocations of the hands, 6.86%; crushing injuries of the hands, 2.67%). Overall, injuries to the digital nerve showed the greatest frequency (62.7%). In the upper arm and forearm, the ulnar nerve was most frequently injured; however, in the hand, radial nerve injuries were most common. The annual incidence rate per 100,000 persons decreased from 10.67 in 2008 to 7.88 in 2018. The annual incidence decreased by 0.98 times per year. PNI occurred 33.91 times more frequently in the finger than in the upper arm, and there were 1.16 times more PNIs in the summer and 2.14 times more in men. We investigated the incidence trend and epidemiologic characteristics of upper extremity peripheral nerve injury in South Korea from 2008 to 2018. A decreasing tendency of annual incidence was observed from 2013 onwards. Finger and digital nerve were most commonly injured, and the incidence of PNI was higher in the summer and in men.
Safety and efficacy of Chinese herbal tonics for the treatment of olfactory disorders caused by the Delta strain in COVID-19: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gao Qing , Wang YiFeng , Li Xuhao
Published: December 2022

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an acute respiratory infectious disease that makes breathing difficult and is often accompanied by olfactory disorders and distension. Chinese herbal tonics, a special external treatment of traditional Chinese medicine, has shown beneficial effects in the treatment of olfactory disorders. Currently, there is a lack of systematic reviews on Chinese herbal tonics for the treatment of olfactory disorders. We conduct this study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal tonics in the treatment of olfactory disorders. This study is designed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Chinese herbal tonics for olfactory disorders in COVID-19.

Methods:

Randomized controlled trials from December 2019 to September 2022. will be included, without restrictions on language or publication date. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Chinese Biomedical Databases, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, and VIP Database were searched. Two researchers will independently select studies, extract data, and evaluate study quality. The Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized trials will be used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Statistical analyses will be conducted using the Review Manager (RevMan 5.3, Cochrane Collaboration, Nordic Cochrane Center, Copenhagen, Denmark).

Results:

This study aimed to prove the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal tonics for olfactory disorders in patients with COVID-19. Our study provides a more accurate treatment method for olfactory disorders during COVID-19.We will publish our results in a peer-reviewed journal.
Acupuncture decreases risk of stroke among patients with atrial fibrillation: A nationwide investigation
Authors: Hu Wei-Syun , Lin Cheng-Li
Published: December 2022

The authors aim to investigate retrospectively the association between acupuncture and risk of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database, AF patients without any acupuncture treatment record were classified as non-acupuncture cohort and 1:1 matching with acupuncture cohort by age, gender, and all comorbidities. To calculate the risk of stroke in case and control groups, cox proportional hazard models were used and presented by hazard ratios, adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Two equally distributed groups of AF individuals with and without acupuncture were included. After adjusting for risk factors, AF subjects with acupuncture conferred a lower risk of stroke (aHR = 0.46, 95% confidence intervals [CI] = 0.38–0.54), ischemic stroke (aHR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.39–0.56) and hemorrhagic stroke (aHR = 0.35, 95% CI = 0.19–0.67), compared to the controls. AF patients receiving acupuncture was associated with a decreased risk of stroke.
Significance of routine preoperative prone computed tomography for predicting intractable cases of inguinal hernias treated by transabdominal preperitoneal repair
Authors: Katoh Ryuji , Ogawa Hiroomi , Takada Takahiro , Ozawa Naoya , Suga Kunihiko , Osone Katsuya , Okada Takuhisa , Shiraishi Takuya , Sano Akihiko , Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Shirabe Ken , Tsushima Yoshito , Saeki Hiroshi
Published: December 2022

Physical examination is the standard diagnostic approach for adult inguinal hernias. We aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of routine preoperative computed tomography scans in the prone position for predicting intractable cases of inguinal hernias before performing transabdominal preperitoneal repairs. We retrospectively analyzed 56 lesions in 48 patients with inguinal hernias who underwent prone computed tomography scans prior to transabdominal preperitoneal repairs. To assess the ability of prone computed tomography to enable the accurate preoperative diagnosis of inguinal hernias, we compared preoperative hernia types as classified through hernia computed tomography and intraoperative diagnosis. We also analyzed the relationship between operation time and hernia type in unilateral cases (n = 40). The overall hernia computed tomography detection and classification accuracy rates were 81.0% and 83.9%, respectively, using the Japan Hernia Society classification system (2009 version) and 84.3% and 91.2%, respectively, using the European Hernia Society classification system. There were no differences in the hernia type frequencies between the shorter (n = 20) and longer (n = 20) operation time groups. Two patients had sliding inguinal hernias with prolapsing bladders, both of which were detectable using preoperative prone computed tomography. Although transabdominal preperitoneal repairs were completed in both cases, the operation times were exceptionally long (185 and 291 minute). Preoperative prone computed tomography is useful for predicting intractable cases of inguinal hernias. Prone computed tomography can play a significant role in not only typing and differentiating hernias from other diseases, but also in helping surgeons appropriately treat unexpected intractable cases with laparoscopic surgery.
Characteristics and background mucosa status of early gastric cancer after Helicobacter pylori eradication: A narrative review
Authors: Wei Yali , Jiang Chen , Han Yiping , Song Wen , Li Xiaoyu , Yin Xiaoyan
Published: December 2022

Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) eradication treatment can reduce the risk of gastric cancer. However, early gastric cancer (EGC) can still be detected after eradication. Meanwhile, EGC after eradication is challenging to diagnose by an endoscopist in some cases due to the lack of apparent characteristics and the complex mucosal status.

This review aims to summarize the endoscopic and histological characteristics and the mucosal risk factors for gastric cancer after H pylori eradication.

The literature was searched for possible reported gastric cancer after eradication in “PubMed.” These included related clinical studies and reviews, and unrelated or non-English articles were excluded.

Endoscopically, EGC displays a small, reddish and depressed lesion, indistinct border, “gastritis-like” appearance and submucosal invasion. Histologically, it is divided into surface differentiation, nontumorous epithelium, and intestinal type. The risk factors include severe gastric atrophy, intestinal metaplasia in the corpus, and map-like redness.

In conclusion, these studies on the characteristics and risk mucosal factors of patients with gastric cancer after H pylori eradication will drive the establishment of a novel endoscopic surveillance and diagnosis system for H pylori-eradicated patients.
Analysis of the association between location and patient prognosis in spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage in the basal ganglia and thalamus: A retrospective single-center study
Authors: Park Jung Soo , Jang Hyoung Gyu
Published: December 2022

Spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) causes profound neurological sequelae in survivors. The patient’s prognosis is closely linked to the location and amount of hemorrhage. Therefore, we explored the relationship between the hemorrhage location within the basal ganglia, including the thalamus, and its clinical outcomes in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. A retrospective analysis of consecutively enrolled patients with basal ganglia and thalamic intracerebral hemorrhage treated conservatively at a single tertiary neurosurgical center was conducted between January 2014 and December 2020. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the lateralization of the right or left hemisphere hemorrhage. Furthermore, baseline patient demographics, hematoma volume, location of the hemorrhage (i.e., caudate nucleus, globus palidus, putamen, internal capsule anterior limb, internal capsule posterior limb, thalamus), and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin scale at the 1-year follow-up. An modified Rankin scale score between 3 and 6 was considered a poor outcome. In the analysis according to location, the prognosis was poor when the ICH was localized to the posterior limb of the internal capsule (P < .000) and globus palidus (P = .001) in the right hemisphere. Similarly, the prognosis was also poor when the ICH was localized to the posterior limb of the internal capsule (P < .000), globus palidus (P < .000), putamen (P = .018), and thalamus (P < .000) of the left hemisphere. In the spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhages of the basal ganglia and thalamus, hemorrhaging within the internal capsule and the left thalamus’s bilateral posterior limbs is associated with a poor prognosis.

Multivariable logistic analysis showed that hematoma volume (odds ratio [OR] = 70.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.95–60.53, P = .007) and the posterior limb of the internal capsule (OR = 10.98, 95% CI:1.02–118.49, P = .048) were independent predictors of poor outcomes in the right hemisphere, while hematoma volume (OR = 70.85, 95% CI: 1.95–60.53, P = .007), the posterior limb of the internal capsule (OR = 10.98, 95% CI:1.02–118.49, P = .048) and thalamus (OR = 10.98, 95% CI:1.02–118.49, P = .048) were independent predictors of poor outcomes in the left hemisphere.
Treatment outcome and its associated factors among HIV-MTB co-infected patients in Sichuan, China: A retrospective study
Authors: Yang Ni , Chen Chuang , He Jinge , Li Jing , Zhong Yin
Published: December 2022

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) co-infection has become a pressing global public health problem. Although tuberculosis (TB) is both treatable and curable, it has been exacerbated by the HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic. HIV-MTB co-infected patients have a variety of disease-specific, and treatment-related factors that can adversely affect their treatment outcomes. This study was conducted to assess the outcomes of TB treatment and its associated factors among HIV-MTB co-infected patients in Sichuan, Southwest China. A retrospective study was performed on HIV-MTB co-infected patients who were diagnosed and registered in TB designated hospitals in Sichuan from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2020. Data were collected from patients’ electronic medical records regarding their demographic, clinical, and social support information, and categorical data, such as sex, were reported using numbers and percentages. χ
2 and t-tests were conducted to compare groups in relation to different levels of medical institutions. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify the factors associated with unsuccessful TB treatment outcomes. For logistic regression analysis performed using an α of 0.05, odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for various risk factors. A total of 3677 registered HIV-MTB co-infected patients were enrolled. After adjusting for other variables, male, advanced age, receiving TB treatment at the municipal medical institution, being diagnosed with external pulmonary TB, referral or tracing, being sputum smear positive, not initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) and not using fixed-dose combinations were the main risk factors for treatment failure of HIV-MTB co-infected patients in Sichuan province. Sex, age, hospital level, patient source, other diagnostic factors (e.g., sputum smear results, anatomical site of TB), and factors of therapeutic schemes (e.g., antiretroviral therapy, fixed-dose combinations) may serve as risk factors to estimate the likely treatment outcome of HIV-TB co-infection.
The efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for reducing wound complications after anal fistula surgery: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Qi Wenyue , Wang Linyue , Xu Jiancheng , Gao Jihua
Published: December 2022

Background:

Anal fistula is one of the most common diseases in anorectal surgery. The wound healing after surgery can affect the prognosis of patients. We conducted a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine for reducing wound complications after anal fistula surgery.

Methods:

We have prepared this protocol in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA-P) statement. We will search the following databases: the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Database, Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane library. Two authors will independently assess the risk of bias of the included studies based on the bias risk assessment tool recommended in the Cochrane “Risk of bias” assessment tool. All calculations are carried out with STATA13.0 software.

Results:

A synthesis of current evidence of Chinese herbal medicine for wound management after anal fistula surgery will be shown in this protocol.

Conclusion:

This study may provide more convincing evidence to help clinicians make decisions when dealing with anal fistula patients after surgery.
Study of mirabegron and solifenacin in the improvement of catheter-related bladder discomfort in patients undergoing transurethral resection: A case–control study
Authors: Fan Bohan , Shen Jianwu , Wu Liyang , Zhang Peng
Published: December 2022

Background:

The goal of this study was to see if using mirabegron, solifenacin, or placebo may help patients with transurethral resection avoid catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD).

Methods:

Patients who underwent transurethral surgery and were given a catheter for 3 days after surgery were chosen for this study. The enrolled patients were separated into 3 groups: mirabegron (M), solifenacin (S), and a blank control group (C). All patients had their overactive bladder symptoms score (OABSS) and blood pressure checked before surgery. The CRBD, blood pressure, and heart rate were measured at 6, 24, 48, and 72 hours after surgery. The OABSS and side effects were documented on the 7th day.

Results:

The 104 patients in this trial were randomized into 3 groups at random: M, S, and C. The ultimate follow-up was completed by 99 patients, including 33 in group M, 33 in group S, and 33 in group C. The OABSS, CRBD, and blood pressure in groups M and S were similar before and after surgery (P > .05). Groups M and S performed much better on the OABSS and CRBD than group C (P < .05). There were no significant differences in blood pressure between the 3 groups (P > .05). There were no significant differences in the occurrences of new onset dry mouth (P = .84) or constipation (P = .64) among the 3 groups.

Conclusion:

Mirabegron is comparable to solifenacin as an alternative for the prevention of CRBD, making it a viable option for CRBD prevention.
Significant role of savolitinib in a case of advanced gastric cancer with abnormal mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor (MET): A case report
Authors: He XinCheng , An GaiLi
Published: December 2022

Rationale:

Gastric cancer is a common and lethal malignancy worldwide. It lacks specific clinical symptoms during the early stages, and when detected, the optimal surgical opportunity is lost. Chemotherapy alone offers limited benefits in advanced inoperable disease or postoperative recurrence. Gastric cancer is a heterogeneous tumor involving multiple gene regulations; thus, multi-target combination therapy is the trend in research. The c-MET protein is a tyrosine kinase receptor belonging to the MET family, encoded by the MET proto-oncogene. After binding with its ligand, the hepatocyte growth factor, MET activates cellular signaling pathways in proliferation, motility, migration, and invasion. In addition, it may be abnormally activated in cancers via mutation, amplification, and protein overexpression.

Patient concerns and diagnosis:

We report a 35-year-old male with advanced gastric cancer and bone metastasis who was intolerant to chemotherapy. He was in poor general condition, with thrombocytopenia and anemia.

Interventions and outcome:

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) suggested MET gene amplification in the tumor. After savolitinib treatment, the condition improved significantly without noticeable adverse reactions and maintained a progression-free status for 14 weeks.

Lessons:

This case report provides evidence for MET tyrosine kinase inhibitors in treating gastric cancer patients with MET gene amplification. It also shows that MET detection is a target in gastric cancer.
Combined effect of external treatment of herbal medicine and tuina in congenital muscular torticollis: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kim Eunjin , Choi Jungyoon , Min Sang Yeon
Published: December 2022

Background:

Congenital muscular torticollis (CMT) is the third most common musculoskeletal disease in children. With no standardized treatment method hence, so it is necessary to find an effective treatment method that can be received comfortably by children. This review assessed the efficacy of an external treatment of herbal medicine (ETHM) with tuina for CMT in children.

Methods:

This study searched the English, Chinese, and Korean databases (total of 10) until June 7 2022, without any language restrictions. All included studies were randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of ETHM with tuina as an intervention comparted to the same tuina alone according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mean differences (MD), standardized mean differences (SMD), risk ratio (RR) with the 95% confidence interval (CI), and risk of bias (ROBs) were calculated using Review Manager Version 5.4 software. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) rating system was used to assess the quality of evidence. The publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot, the Egger test, the fail-safe N test, and the Duval and Tweedle’s trim and fill method using Review Manager Version 5.4 software, the software R Version 4.1.1 and R studio Version 1.4.1106 program.

Results:

Nineteen RCTs with 1710 patients were included in the meta-analysis. ETHM plus tuina improved the outcomes of the total effective rate (TER) [RR 1.21, 95% CI:1.15 to 1.26, P < .001], sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle thickness [MD: −1.82, 95% CI: −2.23 to −1.41, P < .001], cervical rotation range [MD: 13.43, 95% CI: 10.41–16.45, P < .001] and lateral flexion range [MD: 8.50, 95% CI: 6.15–10.85, P < .001], tissue elasticity grade [SMD: −0.46; 95% CI: −0.71 to −0.22, P = .0002], muscle elasticity scores [RR: 1.56; 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.34, P = .03], and clinical symptom and sign scores [SMD: −0.78; 95% CI: −1.09 to −0.47, P < .001].

Conclusions:

ETHM plus tuina have a combined effect on CMT children. However, further studies with high-quality clinical trials are needed to obtain more robust clinical evidence.
First case report of human infection with Micrococcus yunnanensis identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing: A case report
Authors: Zhang Yingmiao , Jiang Yan , Zhan Yu , Wang Hui , Qin Tian , Lu Zhongxin
Published: December 2022

Background:

Micrococcus yunnanensis (M. yunnanensis) is an endophytic actinomycete that was originally isolated from the roots of Polyspora axillaris in 2009, and no human infections caused by this organism have yet been reported. We report the first case of community-acquired pneumonia caused by M. yunnanensis and propose that M. yunnanensis should be considered as an emerging pathogen in medical practice. A 30-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with fever, paroxysmal dry cough with sputum, and pharyngalgia. Laboratory tests revealed an increase in several inflammatory indicators, and a computerized tomography scan of the chest showed scattered infection foci in both lungs. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was collected via bronchoscopy for microbial culture and pathological examination.

Methods:

The isolate from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was identified as M. yunnanensis by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The patient was diagnosed with community-acquired pneumonia based on the diagnostic criteria.

Results:

The patient was treated with intravenous amoxicillin/clavulanate potassium, levofloxacin hydrochloride tablets, and compound methoxyphenamine capsules on the day after admission. After 3 days of treatment, the patient’s physiological conditions and inflammatory indicators normalized, and 6-month follow-up showed no abnormalities.

Conclusion:

Although the pathogenicity of M. yunnanensis is unclear, the present case indicates an emerging pathogen in medical practice. MALDI-TOF MS has a limited ability to identify novel or rare pathogenic species, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing is of great value in some circumstance.
A case report of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis followed by cesarean section: Clinical diagnosis and treatment experience
Authors: Liang Jin Long , Chen Zheng Quan , Yi Zhang , Kun Ming Wen
Published: December 2022

Rationale:

Encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS), also known as abdominal cocoon syndrome, is an uncommon condition that typically presents with features of bowel obstruction. EPS followed by cesarean section is extremely rare. Intestinal obstruction caused by EPS lacks specificity and poses clinical difficulties for diagnosis and treatment. We present the case of a patient with recurrent intestinal obstruction followed by cesarean section, and the diagnosis of EPS was confirmed intraoperatively. The patient recovered well postoperatively, and achieved satisfactory therapeutic results. Management of this condition tests the surgeon’s knowledge and experience of the disease.

Patient concerns:

A 27-year-old woman with recurrent abdominal pain and distention accompanied by reduced anal discharge and defecation there months. The patient had a history of cesarean section 4 months earlier and recovered well after operation. She had no other history of abdominal surgery or diseases. On examination, a 10-cm long transverse incision was made in the lower abdomen, and marking on the intestinal movements were observed in the left mid-abdomen. A long, soft lump with good mobility was touched in the left lower abdomen. The abdominal computed tomography and small bowel barium meal examination revealed incomplete intestinal obstruction.

Diagnosis:

Incomplete small bowel obstruction due to abdominal adhesions after the cesarean section was initially considered.

Interventions:

After conservative treatment, the symptom of intestinal obstruction still recurred. Thus, we decided to perform a surgery of repeated decortication of fibrous peritoneal membranes.

Outcomes:

The operation successfully released the intestinal obstruction and abdominal pain, postoperative course recovered smoothly.

Lessons:

After cesarean section could develop EPS. Intestinal obstruction caused by EPS lacks specificity and poses clinical difficulty in diagnosis and treatment. The management of this condition tests the surgeon’s knowledge and experience, and surgery is an effective treatment measure.