bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The implementation of infant pain practice change resource to improve infant procedural pain practices: a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation study
Authors: Stevens Bonnie , Bueno Mariana , Barwick Melanie , Campbell-Yeo Marsha , Chambers Christine , Estabrooks Carole , Flynn Rachel , Gibbins Sharyn , Harrison Denise , Isaranuwatchai Wanrudee , LeMay Sylvie , Noel Melanie , Stinson Jennifer , Synnes Anne , Victor Charles , Yamada Janet
Published: December 2024

Implementation of infant pain practice change (ImPaC) is a multifaceted web-based resource to support pain practice change in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We evaluated the (1) intervention effectiveness and (2) implementation effectiveness of ImPaC using a hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation study (ie, cluster randomized controlled trial and longitudinal descriptive study). Eligible level 2 and 3 Canadian NICUs were randomized to intervention (INT) or waitlisted to usual care (UC) for 6 months. We assessed the number of painful procedures, proportion of procedures accompanied by valid assessment and evidence-based treatment, and pain intensity to determine intervention effectiveness using intention-to-treat (ITT) and wait-list (WL) analyses. Implementation feasibility and fidelity were explored. Twenty-three NICUs participated (12 INT, 11 UC). Thirty infants/NICU were included in the ITT (INT = 354, UC = 325) and the WL (INT = 678, UC = 325) analyses. In the ITT analysis, the average number of painful procedures/infant/day was lower in the INT group [2.62 (±3.47) vs 3.85 (±4.13), P < 0.001] than in the UC group. Pain assessment was greater in the INT group (34.7% vs 25.5%, P < 0.001) and pain intensity scores were lower [1.47 (1.25) vs 1.86 (1.97); P = 0.029]. Similarly, in the WL analysis, there were fewer painful procedures/infant/day [3.11 (±3.98) vs 3.85 (±4.13), P = 0.003] and increased pain assessment (30.4% vs 25.5%, P = 0.0001) and treatment (31.2% vs 24.0%, P < 0.001) in the INT group. Feasibility and implementation fidelity were associated with improved clinical outcomes.
Altered blood and keratinocyte microRNA/transfer RNA fragment profiles related to fibromyalgia syndrome and its severity
Authors: Erbacher Christoph , Vaknine-Treidel Shani , Madrer Nimrod , Weinbender Sofia , Evdokimov Dimitar , Unterecker Stefan , Moshitzky Gilli , Sommer Claudia , Greenberg David S. , Soreq Hermona , Üçeyler Nurcan
Published: December 2024

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a debilitating widespread chronic pain condition of unclear pathophysiology. We studied small noncoding RNAs as potential classifiers and mediators of FMS. Blood and keratinocyte microRNAs (miRs) and transfer RNA fragments (tRFs) were profiled by small RNA-sequencing within a comprehensively phenotyped female cohort of 53 patients with FMS vs 34 healthy controls (hCOs) and 15 patients with major depression and chronic physical pain (disease controls). Small RNAs were quantified via RNA-sequencing and candidates validated via qRT-PCR. MicroRNAs and tRFs were tested for association with FMS symptoms and their potential regulatory roles. miR and tRF profiles were altered in FMS compared to hCO in whole blood (n = 69; n = 22) and keratinocytes (n = 41; n = 55). Receiver operating characteristic analysis of blood miR candidates hsa-miR-148a-3p and hsa-miR-182-5p, and tRF candidate tRF-21-WB8647O5D levels separated FMS from hCO. In blood, hsa-miR-182-5p and hsa-miR-576-5p upregulation was validated via qRT-PCR, showing even higher expression in disease control, while TRF-20-40KK5Y93 was selectively increased in FMS. MicroRNAs in blood and keratinocytes were associated with how widespread pain manifested in patients. Keratinocyte tRFs correlated with loss of skin innervation. In blood, altered small RNAs were linked to immune and RNA processes, whereas in keratinocytes, adhesion and epithelial functions were targeted. Modulated tRFs shared sequence motifs in patients with FMS, which may promote concerted pathway regulation. Our findings show miRs/tRFs as key small RNAs dysregulation in FMS pathophysiology and open new perspectives for FMS diagnostics, symptom monitoring, and clinical management.
Evaluation of self-perceived halitosis and effective conditions in periodontology clinic applicants: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Ozkan Sen Dilek , Durmaz Esra Nur , Saraç Fatma
Published: December 2024

Halitosis is defined as an unpleasant odor emanating from the oral cavity and has social and economic effects. Halitosis is a common complaint in individuals with periodontal disease, but limited data are available. The aim of this study is to evaluate self-reported halitosis and related conditions. It is a cross-sectional study using a questionnaire consisting of 10 questions on the self-perception of halitosis in patients who applied to the periodontology clinic. Five hundred nine individuals were included in the study. The relationship between individual-reported oral malodor and sociodemographic, medical history and oral hygiene variables was examined. Periodontal clinical parameters (plaque index, gingival index, and bleeding on probing) recorded in the patient forms of the individuals included in the study were evaluated. The prevalence of halitosis reported by the patients participating in the study is 34.2%. Factors that are significantly associated with self-perceived halitosis, low frequency of tooth brushing, increased degree of periodontal disease, regular drug use of patients, and low education level. Halitosis remains one of the main issues facing people in today’s world. As a result, dentists should play a bigger part in educating and alerting patients about oral malodor. There should be more public education regarding the causes of foul breath and potential treatments.
Study on temperature change and nursing intervention of patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery in lung tumor treatment
Authors: Qu Xiao , Hu Na , Zhou Liyan
Published: December 2024

To investigate the changes of body temperature and nursing intervention of patients undergoing thoracoscopic surgery in lung tumor treatment. A total of 100 patients with lung cancer admitted to our hospital from January 2021 to January 2023 were selected as research objects, and were divided into control group and study group, with 50 cases in each group according to different treatment methods. All patients received thoracoscopic surgery, the control group received routine nursing, and the research group received perioperative nursing intervention on the basis of the above, and observed and compared the temperature changes, perioperative complications, postoperative rehabilitation, stress indexes and pain degree of the 2 groups of patients. The temperature at T1, T2, T3, and T4 was lower than that at T0, and the temperature at T3 was the lowest. The temperature at T1, T2, T3, and T4 in the study group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < .05). The incidence of perioperative hypothermia, hypoxemia, chills, and agitation in study group was significantly lower than that in control group (P < .05). The anal exhaust time, consciousness recovery time, tracheal extubation time, operating room time, and hospital stay time in the study group were significantly shorter than those in the control group (P < .05). After operation, the levels of AD, NA, and Cor in both groups were higher than those before operation, and the levels of AD, NA, and Cor in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < .05). The visual analogue scale scores of the 2 groups at 12 hours and 48 hours after operation were lower than those of the control group at 6 hours, 12 hours, and 48 hours after operation, and the visual analogue scale scores of the study group at 6 hours, 12 hours, and 48 hours after operation were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < .05). Nursing intervention during thoracoscopic surgery for lung tumors can stabilize intraoperative and postoperative temperature changes, alleviate stress reaction and pain, reduce the risk of intraoperative hypothermia and hypoxemia, promote the smooth progress of surgery and improve prognosis.
Surgery for colorectal cancer in people aged 80 years or older – complications, risks, and outcomes
Authors: Han Jeong Hee , Lee Byoung Chul , Kim Min Ju , Choi Jung Bum , Jung Hyuk Jae , Jo Hong Jae
Published: December 2024

The number of older adult patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) is steadily increasing with the increasing aging population. However, healthcare professionals continue to approach treatment in older adult patients while considering the potential coexistence of complications relative to their age. There is a tendency to define and limit treatment options for managing “older adult patients” at relatively younger ages. Given the progression of aging societies and aging of patients with CRC, the impact of age on post-surgical outcomes should be analyzed to guide treatment decisions and ensure the highest quality of care for this population. This study aimed to compare outcomes in patients aged approximately 80 years who have undergone surgery after being diagnosed with CRC at the National Pusan University Hospital. This retrospective observational study included 502 patients who underwent surgery after being diagnosed with CRC at Pusan National University Hospital from January 2018 to December 2022. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. Older adult patients underwent open surgery more frequently. No significant differences in surgical outcomes or hospital stay were found between the two groups. Moreover, no notable differences were observed in overall complications, including major surgery-related complications such as anastomotic leakage, bleeding, and infection, between the two groups. However, pneumonia was significantly more common in the older patient group (P = .016). Among patients requiring emergency surgery, the older adult group demonstrated a significantly higher proportion of emergency surgeries and complications associated with regular surgeries compared with the younger group. In older adult patients, the risk of postoperative complications should not be determined solely based on age; a comprehensive assessment is necessary. However, in the case of emergency surgery, older adult patients may be relatively vulnerable compared with younger patients.
Exploring novel markers for coronary heart disease associated with systemic lupus erythematosus: A review
Authors: Du Linping , Wang Yuqun , Ma Honglei , Fan Jiaheng , Wang Shiqi , Liu Junhong , Wang Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune condition that is characterized by the production of autoantibodies and sustained inflammatory damage. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a common complication of SLE, significantly increases CHD-related mortality in SLE patients. Despite conventional risk factors, the mechanisms contributing to a higher CHD risk require further investigation, with the immune and inflammatory aspects of SLE playing a significant role. Endothelial cell damage and dysfunction are key factors in the progression of coronary atherosclerosis in SLE patients. This review specifically focuses on endothelial dysfunction and the role of specific microRNAs in the context of SLE and CHD. In addition, we discuss the effects and functions of oxidative stress markers, endothelial progenitor cells, and circulating endothelial cells in individuals with both SLE and CHD. We also explored the typical inflammatory markers associated with SLE and CHD, addressing their clinical significance and limitations.
Prognostic role of long noncoding RNA CASC11 in cancer patients: A meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Song , Xu Bo , Zhang Ji-Ling , Liu Shun-Hai , Xiang Xin , Liu Pan
Published: December 2024

Background:

Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is a significant component of the noncoding genome and refers to RNA molecules that exceed 200 nucleotides in length. It plays a crucial role in both promoting and suppressing cancer by regulating the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of tumor cells. We have found a correlation between cancer susceptibility candidate 11 (CASC11) experssion and tumorigenesis development prognosis in a number of studies on tumors. Hence, this meta-analysis was conducted to further investigate the effects of CASC11 expression on clinicopathological features and outcome. Furthermore, CASC11 can act both as a therapeutic target and a cancer biomarker.

Method:

We conducted a thorough search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library to identify all eligible studies until September 20, 2023. These studies examined the potential relationship between the expression levels of CASC11 and survival or the range of pathological feature in cancer patients. The impact of CASC11 expression on overall survival (OS) was evaluated using pooled hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CI). The relationship between CASC11 expression and clinicopathological features was assessed through pooled odds ratios and 95% CI.

Results:

A total of 11 studies, involving 660 patients, were examined in this analysis. The results revealed that the overexpression of CASC11 was significantly associated with poor OS (hazard ratios = 2.07, 95%CI = 1.64–2.60) in cancer. Further subgroup analysis demonstrated that the overexpression of CASC11 was consistently linked to poorer OS in diverse types of cancer, including digestive system neoplasm, respiratory neoplasms, and gynecologic tumor.

Conclusion:

Overall, this analysis established a strong correlation between CASC11 expression and tumor prognosis, suggesting its potential as a predictive marker for tumor progression in diverse cancer types.
Causal relationships between depression, emotional changes, and hiatal hernia: A Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Pan Chaofan , Lin Mingzhi , Luo Wenbin , Li Ruoyun , Luo Changjiang
Published: December 2024

Hiatal hernia (HH) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by the displacement of abdominal contents, particularly the stomach, into the thoracic cavity. This condition is frequently associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and can lead to various symptoms, including chronic cough and respiratory issues. Despite its prevalence, the mechanisms linking psychological factors to HH are not well understood. Observational studies have suggested correlations between mental health issues – such as stress, anxiety, and depression – and gastrointestinal disorders, indicating that emotional states may influence the development of HH. This study aims to clarify the causal relationships between mood swings, depression, and the risk of developing HH using Mendelian randomization (MR), a robust method that utilizes genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs) to infer causality. Data for this MR analysis were obtained from publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We employed a bidirectional, 2-sample MR approach, using IVs associated with mood swings, depression, feelings of tension, and feelings of misery as exposures, with HH as the outcome. A reverse MR analysis was also conducted, treating HH as the exposure and the aforementioned emotional states as outcomes. The primary analytical method used was inverse variance weighting (IVW), supplemented by sensitivity analyses, including MR-Egger and weighted median methods. Our analysis revealed significant associations: mood swings (OR = 1.014; 95% CI = 1.001–1.027; P = .032), depression (OR = 1.019; 95% CI = 1.006–1.033; P = .003), feelings of tension (OR = 1.012; 95% CI = 1.004–1.020; P = .001), and feelings of misery (OR = 1.007; 95% CI = 1.003–1.010; P = .0001) significantly increased the risk of HH. Importantly, reverse MR analysis indicated no causal influence of HH on these emotional states. This study provides evidence that mood swings, depression, feelings of tension, and feelings of misery are significant risk factors for developing HH. These findings highlight the need to address psychological factors in the clinical management and prevention strategies for HH, potentially improving patient outcomes.
The effectiveness of care robots in alleviating physical burden and pain for caregivers: Non-randomized prospective interventional study – Preliminary study
Authors: Jung Jae Ik , Jeong Yoo Seok , Kwon Dong Rak
Published: December 2024

Background:

Caregiver burden significantly affects both patients and caregivers but is often overlooked in clinical practice. Physical and emotional strain on caregivers can compromise the quality of care. Care robots are emerging as solutions to alleviate these burdens by assisting with routine tasks, thereby reducing caregivers’ physical strain and stress. Therefore, a prospective, non-randomized, interventional clinical trial was designed to identify changes in caregivers’ physical activities due to care robot use and explore the associated benefits.

Methods:

Twenty-two caregivers (1 male and 21 female; mean age, 62.05 years) were participated. We analyzed the impact of care robots on reducing physical burden and assessed caregivers’ satisfaction with these robots by examining care activity history, pain levels, muscle activities, and data for each physical care activity (e.g., transfer, reposition, feeding, and toileting), categorizing them based on whether a care robot was used. Care robots that assist in transfer, repositioning, feeding, and toileting activities were used in a clinical trial. Muscle activity was measured during maximum voluntary isometric contraction using electromyography sensors placed on the upper trapezius, biceps brachii, and erector spinae muscles.

Results:

During care robot use, we observed a statistically significant decrease in the distance and number of steps required for assisting with repositioning. However, the caregiving activity time increased when the robots assisted with transfer, feeding, and toileting (P < .001). Pain was significantly reduced during transfer and toileting activities using the care robot (P < .001) as well as during feeding activity (P = .040). Maximum voluntary isometric contraction showed a significant reduction in the upper trapezius, biceps brachii, and erector spinae muscles during the 4 care activities when using the robot, and these findings were consistent across the 3 sessions (P < .001). In the survey, caregivers indicated that “transfer-assisting” care robots were the most needed (15 respondents, 68.2%).

Conclusion:

In this study, we demonstrated that employing care robots can aid in mitigating muscle overuse among caregivers, potentially alleviating pain due to musculoskeletal conditions.
The matching relationship and driving mechanism of elderly medical care resources and elderly population in China: A study based on provincial perspective
Authors: Qiao Zhongli , Ding Ye , Zhu Yu , Qin Shangren
Published: December 2024

With the exacerbation of population aging in China, policies have been formulated to provide elderly medical care resources. However, research on the matching situation of these resources with the elderly population (EP) is relatively scarce. This study collected data on elderly medical care resources and the EP from various provinces in mainland China from 2011 to 2017. Using Spearman analysis, the correlation between elderly medical care resources and the EP was explored. Based on geographical concentration, the resource and population matching conditions of each province were calculated and categorized, while the deviation across the nation was measured. Finally, panel regression was used to identify driving factors affecting provincial matching degrees. From 2011 to 2017, the EP aged 60 or above in China grew from 173 million to 235 million, an increase of 35.84%. In contrast, the number of elderly medical care beds grew from 118,000 in 2011 to 135,000 in 2017, an increase of only 14.41%. Although a positive correlation has emerged between China’s elderly medical care resources and the EP in recent years, the deviation between the two has been expanding annually. Among all provinces, more than one-third still lag behind in terms of elderly medical care resources. Moreover, the matching degree is closely related to economic levels, with significant differences observed between the eastern and western regions—the developed eastern regions have higher matching rates, while the less developed regions experience lower rates. The driving factors influencing provincial matching degrees have been identified as per capita GDP (β = 0.67, P = .010) and fiscal health expenditure (β = 0.22, P < .001). The matching degree between elderly medical care resources and the EP in China urgently needs to be improved. Economic conditions have a significant impact on the matching degree. To better serve the EP, it is needed to increase investments in elderly medical care resources in the western and northeastern regions, and promote an increase in the matching degree by enhancing per capita gross domestic product and fiscal health expenditure.
The mediating role of the genetically predicted N6, N6, N6-trimethyllysine levels in the association between HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes and ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Hua Danyun , Wang Lu , Li Na , Xu Xiang , Yin Xiaohu
Published: December 2024

This study explores the hidden connection between HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes and ankylosing spondylitis (AS), with a particular emphasis on investigating and measuring the impact of 1091 blood metabolites as potential mediators. We harnessed the power of summary-level data extracted from a comprehensive genome-wide association study to delve into the intricate relationship between genetically predicted HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes (3621 cases) and AS (1193 cases and 374,621 controls). Furthermore, we employed a two-step Mendelian randomization (MR) methodology to elucidate the extent to which blood metabolites contribute to the effects observed in CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes, ultimately influencing the development of AS. This methodological approach provides a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the interplay between blood metabolites and AS, shedding light on the underlying mechanisms governing this intricate association. Through MR analysis, our investigation revealed an increase in HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes within plasma, which correspondingly led to a reduction in the incidence of AS. The primary MR analysis yielded an odds ratio of 0.64 with a 95% confidence interval spanning from 0.53 to 0.78, underscoring the protective effect of elevated HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes against the development of AS. Furthermore, our study found no compelling evidence to suggest that AS exerts any discernible influence on HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes. Instead, our investigation identified N6, N6, N6-trimethyllysine levels (TML), a blood metabolite, as the sole mediator in the relationship between HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes and AS. Notably, the genetic prediction of AS mediated by TML accounted for a substantial ‐2.98% proportion of the observed variance. Our investigation has delineated a causal association between HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes and AS. Specifically, HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes exhibited a protective effect against the development of AS. Conversely, AS mediated by TML emerged as a risk factor, though the precise impact of HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes on AS pathogenesis remains enigmatic. It is imperative to embark on further investigations into potential mediators. In a clinical setting, it is imperative to carefully monitor the patient’s HLA DR on CD14‐ CD16+ monocytes levels.
Quantification of gait characteristics and muscle activation in patients with chronic ankle instability during walking on sand: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Lee Geon Woo , Lee Juseong , Shin Seung Woo , Kim Junghoon
Published: December 2024

Background:

Limited evidence exists regarding the movement control patterns of individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) during sand walking. This study aimed to analyze gait characteristics and muscle activation in patients with CAI while walking on sand.

Methods:

This study recruited 30 participants, including 15 patients with CAI and 15 healthy controls. Patients with CAI were selected based on having experienced at least a lateral ankle sprain within 12 months before recruitment. They also had to scoring ≤ 27 on the Cumberland ankle instability tool. This study was conducted using a randomized crossover trial. All participants were asked to walk three times each at their natural speed on both sand and paving blocks for a distance of 50m. There was at least a week between each trial.

Results:

The lower limb gait kinematics, spatiotemporal, and muscle activity parameters while walking on sand and paving blocks were compared between both groups. Significant differences in knee angle were observed between 60.83% and 75.34% of the gait cycle during walking on sand in the patients with CAI. Regarding spatiotemporal parameters, cadence (P = .001) and stride length (P = .049) showed significant differences as the main effect. In the CAI group, the recruitment threshold for the peroneus longus muscle was significantly lower during walking on sand than on paving blocks (P < .001). In contrast, the motor unit action potential (MUAP) was significantly higher (P < .001). For the tibialis anterior muscle, the recruitment threshold and number of motor units were significantly lower during walking on sand than on paving blocks (P = .006 and P = .003, respectively), and the MUAP was significantly higher (P < .001). During walking on sand, patients with CAI exhibited increased knee flexion angle, stride length, and MUAP, along with decreased cadence and recruitment thresholds.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that sand can influence gait characteristics and muscle activation in patients with CAI. Our findings indicate that gait characteristics and muscle activation changes in patients with CAI could potentially benefit CAI rehabilitation.
Diagnostic value of SAT-TB in smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis: A diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Zhao Xiaoxiao , Cui Kunping , Bai Lang , Xu Shanling , Liu Wei , Shang Jin , Mise Rili , Li Wen Quan , Wang Lin , Deng Wen Qiu , Cheng Lingcheng , Zhao Chuan
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of rapid simultaneous RNA amplification and testing for tuberculosis (SAT-TB) in smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). We performed a multicenter prospective analysis of 206 patients with smear-negative suspected PTB between December 2018 and March 2022. We collected sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) for simultaneous SAT-TB and Xpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/rifampin (MTB/RIF) assays. The efficiency of SAT-TB detection was also evaluated. The final analysis included 161 patients with smear-negative suspected PTB, of whom 114 provided sputum specimens and 47 provided BALF specimens. In sputum samples, the area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity of SAT-TB for diagnosing PTB were 0.75, 50.7%, and 100.0%, respectively, and those of the Xpert MTB/RIF assay were 0.81, 62.3%, and 100.0%, respectively. The kappa coefficient k of the consistency between SAT-TB and Xpert MTB/RIF in sputum specimens was 0.686. In BALF specimens, the area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity of SAT-TB for diagnosing PTB were 0.79, 57.1%, and 100.0%, respectively, and those of Xpert MTB/RIF were 0.86, 76.2%, and 96.2%, respectively. The kappa coefficient k of the consistency between SAT-TB and Xpert MTB/RIF in BALF specimens was 0.656. The SAT-TB and Xpert MTB/RIF assays were highly consistent in diagnosing smear-negative PTB. It is a valuable method for early detection, prevention, and managing smear-negative PTB suspects. Meanwhile, the detection efficiency and cost-effectiveness of SAT-TB are more suitable for the rapid diagnosis of smear-negative PTB in low- and middle-income countries.
Trousseau syndrome-induced cerebral infarction: Two case reports
Authors: Chen Yongzhen , Wan Qiuxia , Li Shanshan , Liu Bo
Published: December 2024

Rationale:

As a paraneoplastic syndrome, Trousseau syndrome (TS) is a collective term for various thromboembolic events caused by clotting and fibrinolytic abnormalities in patients with tumors, clinically manifesting as venous and arterial thromboembolism, as well as disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). The incidence rate of arterial thrombosis in patients with TS is 2% to 5%.

Patient concerns:

This article reports 2 patients with TS-induced cerebral infarction. One patient had been definitively diagnosed with cervical adenosquamous carcinoma (stage IVB) accompanied by metastases to the liver and scapulae on May 18, 2020, and was treated with surgery and chemoradiotherapy. The other patient had received laparoscopic radical surgery for distal gastric cancer on March 5, 2018, and had undergone postoperative chemotherapy.

Diagnoses:

Both current illnesses had a stroke-like onset, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results were in line with cerebral infarction changes. Hematological examination of both patients revealed an obviously increased D-dimer level. The results for Case 2 also indicated deep-venous thrombosis of the right lower extremity. The 2 patients were finally diagnosed with TS, which was ameliorated after anticoagulant (low-molecular-weight heparin [LMWH]) treatment.

Lessons:

Here, the clinical characteristics and treatment of these 2 TS patients are analyzed and the relevant literature is reviewed to improve understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. Cerebral infarction is the initial symptom in some patients with malignancies. For unexplained multiple cerebral infarctions, we should screen for occult malignancies to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment, as early and accurate identification of the cause of the disease may improve prognosis.
Relationship between pain severity and self-perceived health among United States adults: A cross-sectional, retrospective database study
Authors: Axon David Rhys , Smith Jonan
Published: December 2024

Self-perceived health is related to outcomes such as morbidity and mortality. However, little is known about the relationship between pain severity and self-perceived health, which could be useful to know to help improve health. This study assessed the association of pain severity and other contributing factors with self-perceived health among United States adults. This cross-sectional, retrospective database study used 2019 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data and included United States adults aged ≥18 years who responded to the pain item in the survey. The independent variable was self-reported pain severity, and the dependent variable was self-perceived health. Various potentially confounding variables were controlled for in the analysis. Adjusted logistic regression models were used to identify statistical associations between each variable and self-perceived health. The complex survey design was maintained, while nationally representative estimates were obtained. Among the sample of 17,261 United States adults, 88.1% (95% confidence interval, 87.4%–88.8%) reported excellent, very good, or good self-perceived health, while 11.9% (95% confidence interval, 11.2%–12.6%) reported fair or poor self-perceived health. In adjusted analyses, there were significant associations between fair or poor self-perceived health and any level of pain severity versus no pain, age 40 to 64 versus 18 to 39 years, male versus female, Hispanic versus non-Hispanic, high school diploma or less versus more than high school, unemployed versus employed, poor, near poor, or low versus middle or high income, fair or poor versus excellent, very good, or good mental health, exercising <5 times versus ≥5 times per week, smoker versus nonsmoker, and ≥2 versus <2 comorbid conditions. This study found that greater levels of pain severity (and several other variables) were associated with greater odds of reporting fair or poor self-perceived health. These associations provide greater insight into the variables associated with self-perceived health, which may be useful targets to improve health.
Dysplastic ganglion cell tumor of the right cerebellum: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Shilong , Li Jun , Dong Jiangtao , Wang Ganggang , Xu Haoxiang , Zhu Licang , Xu Hui
Published: December 2024

Rationale:

This study aims to present a case of cerebellar dysplastic ganglioneuroma, which is commonly referred to as Lhermitte–Duclos disease (LDD). Furthermore, the study aims to provide an extensive review of the essential aspects of LDD, thereby providing essential information for its accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Patient concerns:

A 54-year-old woman was admitted with symptoms of headache, facial numbness, and a visible cerebellar mass. Imaging studies revealed specific features such as the “tiger stripe sign” on magnetic resonance imaging, including hydrocephalus compression and abnormal vasculature.

Diagnoses:

The diagnosis of LDD was made.

Interventions:

The cerebellar mass was resected via a paracentral approach.

Outcomes:

The patient underwent surgery for a cerebellar dysplastic ganglion cell tumor (WHO grade I), confirmed by postoperative pathology. Despite sub-complete resection with minor residuals, the patient experienced significant improvement in symptoms. A postoperative computed tomography scan revealed a large cavity with frontal lobe hemorrhage. PTEN gene testing was recommended but declined due to financial constraints. The patient was discharged without complications.

Lessons:

LDD presents both benign and tumor characteristics, with a low likelihood of malignancy. Total resection is the recommended treatment, although challenges in complete excision may lead to recurrence. The importance of considering Cowden syndrome and genetic testing, particularly the PTEN gene, in patients with LDD, is emphasized. Long-term follow-up care is crucial for monitoring recurrence and related conditions.
Double-Duty Caregivers’ Satisfaction With Health Care Provider Communication
Authors: Gouveia Jean Marie , Revell Susan Hunter , McCurry Mary K. , Tyo Mirinda Brown
Published: December 2024

Background

Double-duty caregivers are health care professionals caring for family members or friends outside the workplace. While they may communicate frequently with colleagues in their professional role, little is known about communication with health care providers in the caregiving role.

Objective

To measure double-duty caregiver satisfaction when communicating with health care providers and to identify correlates and predictors of satisfaction.

Methods

A cross-sectional, nonexperimental, correlational study was used. Participants included registered nurses who were current or former caregivers of a family member or friend aged 50 or older. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between double-duty caregivers’ personal and professional attributes, factors, and satisfaction with communication.

Results

Double-duty caregivers reported above-average satisfaction with communication. Personal beliefs about caring and trust had the highest influence on satisfaction. Stress was associated with lower satisfaction with communication.

Discussion

This study is the first to examine double-duty caregiver satisfaction when communicating with health care providers and associated factors. Health care providers must implement strategies to maximize their acknowledgment of personal beliefs about caring and foster the building of trusting relationships to support colleagues in this role.
Childhood sexual abuse, alcohol problem scores, and race are associated with syphilis incidence in a prospective cohort of young sexual and gender minority adults assigned male at birth
Authors: Xavier Hall Casey D. , Ryan Daniel T. , Hayford Christina , Morgan Ethan , D’Aquila Richard , Mustanski Brian
Published: December 2024

Background

Syphilis rates in the United States have dramatically increased in recent years and are high among young men who have sex with men and transgender women. Yet, few studies have examined a wide-range of risk factors for syphilis incidence prospectively in young sexual and gender minority (YSGM) populations in the U.S. One framework which may have utility in understanding syphilis risk factors is syndemics, which focuses on co-morbid factors and their mutual influence. The current analysis examines demographic, comorbid health and socio-structural risk factors for syphilis in YSGM assigned male at birth including applying a syndemic framework.

Methods

Participants were part of a Chicago-based prospective cohort called RADAR (n = 738). All participants were YSGM. Syphilis cases were identified by serologic screening with a reverse-sequence testing algorithm. Risk factors included demographics, indicators of sexual risk, mental health, substance use, and violence victimization. Syndemic component score was calculated by adding the number of syndemic conditions. Analyses included multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

In multivariable predictive modeling, Black identity, childhood sexual abuse and alcohol problems predicted incident syphilis. Though roughly 37% of participants were indicated as having at least 2 syndemic conditions, the syndemic component did not predict syphilis incidence.

Conclusions

Syphilis incidence is high in this sample of YSGM. Additional research is needed to better understand mechanisms driving associations between childhood sexual abuse and syphilis incidence as well as to develop interventions improve testing and treatment among Black YSGM, YSGM who experience childhood sexual abuse, and YSGM who experience alcohol problems.
Advancing Public Health Interventions: A Novel Surveillance System for Hazardous Consumer Products
Authors: Nam Yoon-Sung , Alex-Oni Kolapo , Fitzstevens Maia , Patel Kari , Hore Paromita
Published: December 2024

Lead poisoning remains a significant public health concern with preventable exposure from different sources, including certain traditional consumer products. To address the concern of product-related lead exposures, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has developed the Non-Paint Sample Database (NPSD). NPSD systematically tracks information about hazardous consumer products collected during New York City case investigations and store surveys. NPSD has enabled identification of new products-related lead sources and populations at risk of lead exposure and has guided risk communication, regulatory activities, and policy initiatives. Since 2007, approximately 8000 consumer products have been tracked by NPSD. NPSD demonstrates the potential for consumer product surveillance to enable source identification, monitor lead exposure trends, and facilitate effective educational and enforcement activities, which advances lead exposure prevention strategies.
Personalized Occlusal Guide Guides Panfacial Fracture Repair and Reconstruction
Authors: Chi Yifan , Hu Yukun , Wang Honghao
Published: December 2024

Restoration of the occlusal relationship is the key point in the treatment of maxillofacial fractures. Poor restoration of the occlusal relationship seriously impacts oral function as well as physical and mental health. This study combines virtual surgical technology with model surgery, uses computed tomography data to establish a maxillofacial bone model, and performs a virtual reduction of fractures. The upper and lower dentition models after reconstruction were intercepted and 3-dimensional printed. After the occlusal relationship was reconstructed by the prosthodontist using the model, an occlusal reduction guide was designed and manufactured based on the reconstructed occlusal relationship to accurately reduce the occlusal relationship in patients with maxillofacial fractures. This study proposes an occlusal guide design process for maxillofacial fractures and optimizes the traditional model surgical process to provide a convenient surgical strategy. This study provides new ideas for the design of personalized surgical guides for maxillofacial fractures.
Novel predictive tool for Fournier gangrene: Twenty-year experience of a tertiary institute
Authors: Chien Huang-Yi , Liao Chun-Hou , Lin Yu-Hua , Lu Yu-Chuan
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

This study aimed to identify prognostic factors and provide a novel image classification method for patients with Fournier gangrene.

Materials and methods:

A total of 40 consecutive patients diagnosed with Fournier gangrene between January 2003 and December 2022 were enrolled. Demographic characteristics, clinical presentations, management strategies, and outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:

The overall survival rate was 87.5% (35/40). Diabetic foot history, chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, or peripheral arterial occlusive disease were significantly (P < 0.05) more common in nonsurvivors than in survivors. Among the parameters of the Fournier’s Gangrene Severity Index, only the initial creatinine level was significantly associated with mortality (P = 0.02). Nevertheless, the Fournier’s Gangrene Severity Index score with a cutoff score of 9 remained a useful indicator of death (P = 0.04). Patients with grade II (extensive) invasion determined by whole abdominal computed tomography had significantly higher mortality rates than those with grade I (nonextensive) (37.5% versus 6.3%, P = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Patients with a history of diabetic foot, chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, and peripheral arterial occlusive disease had a higher risk of death. Early image computed tomography studies are essential for evaluating the risk and extent of the disease. More predictive tools are needed to assess this aggressively infectious disease.
Multipartite entanglement in a Josephson junction laser
Authors: Lang Ben , Armour Andrew D.
Published: December 2024

We analyze the entanglement in a model Josephson photonics system in which a dc voltage-biased Josephson junction couples a collection of cavity modes and populates them with microwave photons. Using an approximate quadratic Hamiltonian model, we study the Gaussian entanglement that develops between the modes as the Josephson energy of the system is increased. We find that the modes in the system fall into a series of blocks, with bipartite entanglement generated between modes within a given block. Tripartite entanglement between modes within a given block is also widespread, though it is limited to certain ranges of the Josephson energy. The system could provide an alternative route to generating multimode microwave entanglement, an important resource in quantum technologies, without the need for ac excitation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Toward a unified description of hadron scattering at all energies
Authors: Stamen D. , Winney D. , Rodas A. , Fernández-Ramírez C. , Mathieu V. , Montaña G. , Pilloni A. , Szczepaniak A. P.
Published: December 2024

The construction of general amplitudes satisfying symmetries and S-matrix constraints has been the primary tool in studying the spectrum of hadrons for over half a century. In this work, we present a new parametrization, which can fulfill many expectations of S-matrix and Regge theory and connects the essential physics of hadron scattering in the resonance region and in asymptotic limits. In this construction, dynamical information is entirely contained in Regge trajectories that generalize resonance poles in the complex energy plane to moving poles in the angular momentum plane. We highlight the salient features of the model, compare with existing literature on dispersive and dual amplitudes, and benchmark the formalism with an initial numerical application to the ρ and σ/f0(500) mesons in ππ scattering.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
CP
asymmetries corresponding to the imaginary parts of the interference terms in cascade decays of heavy hadrons
Authors: Qi Jing-Juan , Yang Jian-Yu , Zhang Zhen-Hua
Published: December 2024

A mechanism of generating CP violation through the imaginary part of the interference of two amplitudes is proposed. This mechanism has shown clear evidence in decays such as B±→π±π+π−. The proposed mechanism is helpful in searching for CP violation in bottom and charmed baryon decay processes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Proximate electronic and magnetic phase transitions in
CaFe3O5
Authors: Milton Michael J. , Hakala Branislav V. , Hong Ka H. , Avdeev Maxim , Ling Chris D. , Kennedy Brendan J. , Manuel Pascal , Attfield J. Paul
Published: December 2024

Electronic phase separation in lightly doped CaFe3O5 has been investigated through a variable temperature powder neutron diffraction study of CaFe2.99M0.01O5 (M=Co, Mn) samples. This reveals a complex series of proximate phase transitions. Lattice strains resulting from the onset of charge order (CO) drive formation of a competing charge averaged (CA) phase that emerges at TCA=TCO=320 K. The CA phase emerges as magnetically ordered but the long range spin ordering transition is limited by domain growth and so occurs at a slightly lower temperature (TCA(m)=301 K for both samples). Magnetic ordering in the CO phase is not directly coupled to the other transitions, but is nearby in temperature with TCO(m)=290(1) and 292(1) K for M=Co and Mn samples. The remarkable coincidence of energy scales for the formation of two distinct electronic ground states with differing lattice strains and their long range spin orders thus results in electronic and magnetic phase separation through a series of thermally proximate phase transitions in lightly doped CaFe3O5.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fine-tuning neural network quantum states
Authors: Rende Riccardo , Goldt Sebastian , Becca Federico , Viteritti Luciano Loris
Published: December 2024

Recent progress in the design and optimization of neural-network quantum states (NQSs) has made them an effective method to investigate ground-state properties of quantum many-body systems. In contrast to the standard approach of training a separate NQS from scratch at every point of the phase diagram, we demonstrate that the optimization of a NQS at a highly expressive point of the phase diagram (i.e., close to a phase transition) yields features that can be reused to accurately describe a wide region across the transition. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach on different systems in one and two dimensions by initially pretraining a NQS at a given point of the phase diagram, followed by fine-tuning only the output layer for all other points. Notably, the computational cost of the fine-tuning step is very low compared to the pretraining stage. We argue that the reduced cost of this paradigm has significant potential to advance the exploration of strongly correlated systems using NQS, mirroring the success of fine-tuning in machine learning and natural language processing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024