bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A genome‐wide CRISPR screen identifies the CCT chaperonin as a critical regulator of vesicle trafficking
Authors: Chen Yongtian , Kang Jing , Zhen Ru , Zhang Liyang , Chen Caiyong
Published: January 2023

Vesicle trafficking is a fundamental cellular process that controls the transport of various proteins and cargos between cellular compartments in eukaryotes. Using a combination of genome‐wide CRISPR screening in mammalian cells and RNAi screening in Caenorhabditis elegans, we identify chaperonin containing TCP‐1 subunit 4 (CCT4) as a critical regulator of protein secretion and vesicle trafficking. In C. elegans, deficiency of cct‐4 as well as other CCT subunits impairs the trafficking of endocytic markers in intestinal cells, and this defect resembles that of dyn‐1 RNAi worms. Consistent with these findings, the silencing of CCT4 in human cells leads to defective endosomal trafficking, and this defect can be rescued by the dynamin activator Ryngo 1–23. These results suggest that the cytosolic chaperonin CCT may regulate vesicle trafficking by promoting the folding of dynamin in addition to its known substrate tubulin. Our findings establish an essential role for the CCT chaperonin in regulating vesicle trafficking, and provide new insights into the regulation of vesicle trafficking and the cellular function of the cytosolic chaperonin.
Compassion satisfaction, compassion fatigue, and vicarious trauma
Authors: Peacock Ashley
Published: January 2023

A descriptive study of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on non-direct care nurses
Delirium in trauma ICUs: a review of incidence, risk factors, outcomes, and management
Authors: Williams Elliot C. , Estime Stephen , Kuza Catherine M.
Published: January 2023

Purpose of review

This article reviews the impact and importance of delirium on patients admitted to the ICU after trauma, including the latest work on prevention and treatment of this condition. As the population ages, the incidence of geriatric trauma will continue to increase with a concomitant rise in the patient and healthcare costs of delirium in this population.

Recent findings

Recent studies have further defined the risk factors for delirium in the trauma ICU patient population, as well as better demonstrated the poor outcomes associated with the diagnosis of delirium in these patients. Recent trials and meta-analysis offer some new evidence for the use of dexmedetomidine and quetiapine as preferred agents for prevention and treatment of delirium and add music interventions as a promising part of nonpharmacologic bundles.

Trauma patients requiring admission to the ICU are at significant risk of developing delirium, an acute neuropsychiatric disorder associated with increased healthcare costs and worse outcomes including increased mortality. Ideal methods for prevention and treatment of delirium are not well established, especially in this population, but recent research helps to clarify optimal prevention and treatment strategies.
Hip Displacement Does Not Change After Pelvic Obliquity Correction During Spinal Fusion in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Asma Ali , Cobanoglu Mutlu , Ulusaloglu Armagan Can , Rogers Kenneth J. , Miller Freeman , Howard Jason J. , Shah Suken A. , Shrader M. Wade
Published: January 2023

Background:

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) frequently develop both neuromuscular hip dysplasia and scoliosis, and occasionally, the timing of the worsening of both of these pathologies is concurrent. The question as to whether the hip or spine should be addressed first in CP remains controversial, with the majority of evidence being “expert opinion.” The purpose of this project was to determine the impact of posterior spinal fusion (PSF) on the change in hip displacement for children with CP without previous reconstructive hip surgery.

Methods:

This was an Institutional Review Board-approved study that observed 67 patients from 2004 to 2018. Inclusion criteria included children with CP, 18 years of age and younger, Gross Motor Function Classification System IV and V, undergoing PSF at a single tertiary care children’s hospital with a minimum 2-year follow-up. The primary outcome was the change in hip displacement as quantified by the migration percentage (MP). The hip with the highest MP (worst hip) at the spine preoperative analysis were included for analysis. Triradiate cartilage (TRC) status and pelvic obliquity correction were analyzed with multivariate analysis.

Results:

Sixty-seven patients were included for analysis, with a mean age of 12.5±2.3 years. The mean major curve angle of the major curve was 77±23 degrees and the mean preoperative pelvic obliquity was 21±12 degrees. There was no statistically significant change in MP after PSF from a mean preoperative value of 41±27%, to a mean postoperative value of 41±29% at the last follow-up, (P=0.76) The mean follow-up time was 4.1±2.7 years. TRC status (P=0.52) and the severity of pelvic obliquity (P=0.10) did not statistically impact the change in MP after PSF.

Conclusion:

PSF did not influence—either negatively or positively—the progression of hip displacement in children with CP, regardless of pelvic obliquity correction or TRC status. The lack of deterioration in hip displacement post-PSF, however, may suggest a protective effect of spine surgery.

Level of Evidence:

Level III—retrospective cohort study.
What is New in Pediatric Orthopaedic: Basic Science
Authors: Lynch Brian , Botros Daniel , Halanski Matthew , Barsi James
Published: January 2023

Background:

An understanding of musculoskeletal basic science underpins most advancements in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Knowledge of biomechanics, genetics, and molecular pathways is integral to the understanding of the pathophysiology of disease and guides novel treatment options to improve patient outcomes. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive and current overview of musculoskeletal basic science relevant to pediatric orthopaedic surgery.

Methods:

Comprehensive Pubmed database searches were performed for all English language articles published between January 2016 and November 2021 using the following search terms: basic science, pediatric orthopaedics, fracture, trauma, spine, scoliosis, DDH, hip dysplasia, Perthes, Legg-Calve-Perthes, clubfoot, and sports medicine. Inclusion criteria focused on basic science studies of pediatric orthopaedic conditions. Clinical studies or case reports were excluded. A total of 3855 articles were retrieved. After removing duplicates and those failing to meet our inclusion criteria, 49 articles were included in the final review.

Results:

A total of 49 papers were selected for review based on the date of publication and updated findings. Findings are discussed in the subheadings below. Articles were then sorted into the following sub-disciplines of pediatric orthopaedics: spine, trauma, sports medicine, hip, and foot.

Conclusions:

With this review, we have identified many exciting developments in pediatric orthopaedic trauma, spine, hip, foot, and sports medicine that could potentially lead to changes in disease management and how we think of these processes.

Level of Evidence:

Level V
A Comprehensive Assessment of Psychosocial Well-being Among Growing Rod Graduates: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Yildiz Mevhibe İrem , Goker Barlas , Demirsöz Talat , Aslan Cihan , Demirkiran Halil Gokhan , Karahan Sevilay , Yazici Mumin Kazim , Yazici Müharrem
Published: January 2023

Background:

Traditional growing rods (TGR) encompass a long process, in which patients experience physical and psychosocial difficulties. However, the effect of repeating surgeries on the overall psychological functioning of graduated patients has not been thoroughly investigated in the literature. The aim of this study is to evaluate the psychological well-being of graduated idiopathic early-onset scoliosis patients in terms of psychopathology, neurocognition, and psychosocial functioning, and determine the accuracy of scoliosis outcome questionnaires in these regards.

Methods:

TGR graduates with idiopathic early-onset scoliosis without known intellectual disabilities or neuromuscular impairments were included. Patients were thoroughly evaluated using psychological instruments [Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Auditory Consonant Trigram Test, Verbal Fluency Test, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Symptom Checklist-90, Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, Spinal Appearance Questionnaire, Scoliosis Research Society 22-item questionnaire (SRS-22)]. Results were compared with normative data when available. Spearman correlations were performed between the results of these tests, the total treatment duration, and the number of spinal surgeries.

Results:

Of the 15 patients included in the study, 9 were females, and the mean age was 18.73 (16 to 23). The mean age at index surgery was 6.38 (3 to 10) whereas that of graduation was 14.00 (12 to 16). The average number of spinal surgeries was 14.28 (7 to 20). Two patients performed below the range of adult intellectual functioning. Auditory Consonant Trigram Test showed normal verbal working memory and attention control. Six patients had abnormal Verbal Fluency Test performance. Eight patients had abnormal ratings on at least one of the assessment scales of psychopathology (Symptom Checklist-90, Beck Depression Inventory, and Beck Anxiety Inventory). Eight patients had low-to-moderate self-esteem (Rosenberg self-esteem scale). The median spinal appearance questionnaire and SRS-22 scores were 34 and 4.18, respectively. Pain and function subdomains of SRS-22 scored higher than self-image and mental health. No correlation was found between the treatment duration and number of surgeries and test scores. SRS-22 showed correlations with multiple psychological tests.

Conclusion:

Completed TGR treatment yields acceptable correction of deformities and surgical outcomes, however, may fail to improve psychological well-being. This is the first study to find various psychosocial abnormalities in two-thirds of cases.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV; cross-sectional study.
Prediction of Late Dysplasia Based on Ultrasound and Plain X-Ray at 6 Months
Authors: Salton Reba L. , Carry Patrick M. , Hadley-Miller Nancy , Murphy-Zane Margaret Siobhan , Brazell Christopher , Novais Eduardo , Georgopoulos Gaia
Published: January 2023

Background:

Developmental dysplasia of the hip represents a spectrum of deformity. Residual dysplasia at 2 years of age is associated with an increased risk for osteoarthritis and functional limitations. We compared the prognostic value of 6-month imaging modalities and aimed to identify optimal diagnostic metrics for the prediction of residual dysplasia.

Methods:

After IRB approval, patients who underwent Pavlik treatment between 2009 and 2018 with 2-year follow-up were identified. Sonographs [ultrasound (US)] and radiographs (x-ray) were obtained at 6-month and 2-year-old visits. Dysplasia at 2 years was defined as an acetabular index (AI) >24 degrees. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to quantitatively compare the prognostic ability of US and x-ray-based measures at 6 months. Youden’s index [(YI) (values range from 0 (poor test) to 1 (perfect test)] was used to evaluate existing cutoffs at 6 months of age (normal measurements: alpha angle (AA) ≥60 degrees, femoral head coverage (FHC) ≥50%, and AI <30 degrees) relative to newly proposed limits.

Results:

Fifty-nine patients were included, of which 28.8% of patients (95% CI: 17.3 to 40.4%) had acetabular dysplasia at 2 years. After adjusting for sex, AA [Area under the Curve (AUC): 80] and AI (AUC: 79) at 6 months of age were better tests than FHC (AUC: 0.77). Current diagnostic cutoffs for AA (YI: 0.08), AI (YI: 0.0), and FHC (YI: 0.06) at 6 months had poor ability to predict dysplasia at 2 years. A composite test of all measures based on proposed cutoffs (AA ≥73 degrees, FHC > 62% and AI ≤24 degrees) was a better predictor of dysplasia at 2 years (Youden’s index (YI): 0.63) than any single metric.

Conclusions:

The rate of residual dysplasia remains concerning. The 6-month x-ray and US both play a role in the ongoing management of the developmental dysplasia of the hip. The prediction of dysplasia is maximized when all metrics are considered collectively. Existing parameters were not accurate; We recommend the following cutoffs: AA ≥73 degrees, FHC > 62%, and AI ≤24 degrees. These cutoffs must be validated.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level II.
Comparison of Procalcitonin With Commonly Used Biomarkers and Algorithms for Evaluating Suspected Pediatric Musculoskeletal Infection in the Emergency Department
Authors: van der Laan Lyndsey , Gaines Nakia , Van Horn Ngoc , Jo Chanhee , Ma Yuhan , Copley Lawson A.
Published: January 2023

Introduction:

It is difficult to distinguish between children with infectious versus noninfectious conditions of the musculoskeletal system during initial evaluation. Clinical predictive algorithms potentially support this effort but not without limitations. Procalcitonin (PCT) has been proposed as a biomarker to help differentiate infection from noninfection. This study evaluates the adoption and utility of PCT during initial infection evaluations and assesses test characteristics of commonly used parameters and algorithms.

Methods:

PCT was introduced for initial laboratory evaluation of the suspected musculoskeletal infection. Prospective enrollment occurred from July 2020 to November 2021 with 3 cohorts established after a retrospective review of final diagnoses at the end of treatment: 1) deep infection, 2) superficial infection, and 3) noninfection. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis of parameters and diagnoses was performed. Test characteristics of individual and aggregated parameters were assessed.

Results:

Among 258 children evaluated, 188 (72.9%) had PCT drawn during the evaluation. An increase of PCT acquisition from 67.8% to 82.4% occurred over the study timeframe. Eighty-five children were prospectively studied, including those with deep infection (n=21); superficial infection (n=10), and noninfection (n=54). Test characteristics of parameters showed accuracy ranging from 48.2% to 85.9%. PCT >0.1 ng/mL independently predicted deep infection in 84.7% of cases, outperforming white blood cell, C-reactive protein (CRP), and absolute neutrophil count. Using study thresholds for CRP, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, PCT, and Temp improved accuracy to 89.4%.

Conclusions:

PCT is a potentially useful biomarker during the initial assessment of children suspected to have a musculoskeletal infection. Systematic evaluation using a combination of parameters improves the accuracy of assessment and assists predictive judgment under uncertainty. PCT <0.1 ng/mL, erythrocyte sedimentation rate <18 mm/hr, CRP <3.3 mg/dL, and temperature <37.8°C should reasonably reassure clinicians that deep musculoskeletal infection is less likely, given the high negative predictive value and collective accuracy of these parameters.

Level of Evidence:

Level III – Retrospective cohort comparison
Treating Pediatric Irreducible Atlantoaxial Rotatory Fixation (IAARF) by Unlocking Facet Joint Through Transoral Approach and Fixing With Slim-TARP Plate (15 Cases Series)
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Xia Hong , Ma Xiang yang , Fu SuoChao , Tu Qiang , Xu Junjie , Yi HongLei , Zhu Changrong
Published: January 2023

Background:

Irreducible atlantoaxial rotatory fixation (IAARF) often requires surgical treatment. Transoral unlocking the facet joints is a key measure for the treatment of IAARF. We investigate a novel method for treating pediatric IAARF by unlocking facet joint through transoral appraoch and fixed with slim-tarp plate in same stage with same approach.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to investigate the method and efficacy of a unique transoral approach to unlock facet joints and fixation with slim-shaped transoral anterior reduction plate (slim-TARP) plate in the treatment of IAARF.

Methods:

Fifteen patients diagnosed with AARF were transferred to our hospital. After 1 week of bidirectional cervical cranial traction, they were diagnosed with irreducible AARF that, and then underwent transoral release and fixation with slim-TARP plate procedures. Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance were used to evaluate the reduction effect, bone fusion, and fusion time. Japanese orthopaedic association scores were used to compare the recovery of spinal cord function in patients before and after surgery. Complications such as wound infection, neurovascular injury, and loosening of internal fixation were evaluated too.

Results:

All 15 patients underwent transoral unlocking facet joint and fixation with slim-TARP procedures smoothly. The operation time were 129.2±11.9 minutes, blood loose were 83±23 mL. There were no neurological injury, wound infections, verified or suspected vertebral artery injury, etc. All patients were followed up for a mean of 17.8±6.6 months (range: 12 to 36 mo). Bony fusion was achieved in all patients. Mean fusion time was 3.6±1.2 months (range: 3 to 6 mo). Complete correction of torticollis was achieved in all 15 cases. Preoperative symptoms of neck pain and limitation of neck movement were effectively alleviated at 3 months after surgery. The 3 patients with preoperative neurological deficits had significant relief after surgery, and their latest follow-up results showed that their Japanese orthopaedic association scores increased from 13.0±1.0 to 16.3±0.6.

Conclusions:

Transoral release and fixation with slim-TARP plate by transoral approach is a feasible and safe method for treating pediatric irreducible atlantoaxial rotatory fixation.
Apixaban and Rivaroxaban Anti-Xa Concentration Utilization in Clinical Practice
Authors: Kim Ju Hee , Shelat Nidhi , Ji Christine S.
Published: January 2023

Drug-specific anti-Xa concentrations can be used to assess the presence of drug effects; however, there is inadequate guidance for clinicians on the interpretation and clinical application of these results. The purpose of this study is to review patients' first apixaban and rivaroxaban anti-Xa concentrations to identify indications for monitoring and common therapeutic interventions made based on the results. In addition, we compared bleeding and thrombotic outcomes between the obesity group body mass index ≥40 kg/m2 and the standard group body mass index 25–39.9 kg/m2. A retrospective analysis was conducted at a large academic medical center from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020. Primary outcomes were indications for anti-Xa concentrations and interventions on results. A total of 180 patients were included in the analysis, with 119 patients (66%) in the apixaban group and 61 patients (34%) in the rivaroxaban group. The most common indications for anti-Xa concentrations were extreme body weight (23%) and concern for bleeding (22%). About half of the anti-Xa concentrations resulted in therapy changes including holding for procedure, switching to heparin or enoxaparin, holding for an elevated anti-Xa concentration or concern for bleeding, adjusting direct-acting oral anticoagulant dose, or switching to an alternative oral anticoagulant. There were no differences in bleeding complications (5% [2] vs. 16% [14], P = 0.11) or thrombotic complications (8% [3] vs. 9% [8], P = 0.85) between the obesity group and the standard group. Despite the lack of validation of therapeutic ranges for anti-Xa concentrations, this study showed clinical situations where anti-Xa concentration monitoring can be of value.
Intestinal Flora Metabolite Trimethylamine Oxide Is Inextricably Linked to Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Zhang Honghong , Jing Lele , Zhai Changlin , Xiang Qiannan , Tian Hongen , Hu Huilin
Published: January 2023

Atherosclerotic coronary heart disease is a common cardiovascular disease with high morbidity and mortality. In recent years, the incidence of coronary heart disease has gradually become younger, and biomarkers for predicting coronary heart disease have demonstrated valuable clinical prospects. Several studies have established an association between coronary heart disease and intestinal flora metabolites, including trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), which has attracted widespread attention from researchers. Investigations have also shown that plasma levels of TMAO and its precursors can predict cardiovascular risk in humans; however, TMAO’s mechanism of action in causing coronary heart disease is not fully understood. This review examines TMAO’s generation, the mechanism through which it causes coronary heart disease, and the approaches used to treat TMAO-caused coronary heart disease to possible avenues for future research on coronary heart disease and find new concepts for the treatment of the condition.
Aftereffects of alpha transcranial alternating current stimulation over the primary sensorimotor cortex on cortical processing of pain
Authors: Peng Weiwei , Zhan Yilin , Jin Richu , Lou Wutao , Li Xiaoyun
Published: January 2023

Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is believed to modulate brain oscillations in a frequency-specific manner. Given the correlation between sensorimotor α-oscillations and pain perception, tACS that targets sensorimotor α-oscillations has the potential to reduce pain. Therefore, this study sought to determine the aftereffects of α-tACS over unilateral primary sensorimotor cortex (SM1) on the perceptual and neural responses to noxious painful stimulation of the contralateral hand. Using a double-blinded and sham-controlled design, 60 healthy participants were recruited to receive either α-tACS or sham stimulation of unilateral SM1 through an electrode montage in a 4 × 1 ring configuration. Neural responses to laser nociceptive stimuli were assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging immediately before and after α-tACS intervention. Perceptual reports were recorded simultaneously. Compared with sham stimulation, α-tACS attenuated bilateral SM1 responses to painful stimuli delivered to the contralateral hand. Although α-tACS did not exert direct effect on subjective pain perception, it can indirectly decrease ratings of pain perception by reducing brain activity within the targeted SM1. Moreover, α-tACS decreased the functional connectivity between the targeted SM1 and a network of regions that are crucially involved in pain processing, including the middle cingulate cortex, contralateral somatosensory cortex, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. These results demonstrated that after α-tACS applied over the unilateral SM1 does attenuate subsequent neural processing of pain within bilateral sensorimotor regions as well as sensorimotor functional connectivity. The findings provide evidence that sensorimotor α-oscillations directly affect pain processing and support the application of sensorimotor α-tACS for inducing pain analgesia.
Left atrial structure and function: association with blood pressure variability in pregnant women
Authors: Murat Selda , Velipasaoglu Melih , Murat Bektas , Al Aytug , Cicek Sevil , Cavusoglu Yüksel
Published: January 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between left atrial (LA) abnormalities and ambulatory blood pressure variability (BPV) in pregnant women and their relationship with hypertension-related clinical outcomes in pregnancy.

Methods

This single-center, prospective study included 119 pregnant women. All participants underwent 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring and echocardiographic examination before 20 weeks of gestation. BPV was evaluated using 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring. SD of the mean of SBP (SBP-SD) and DBP variability was calculated as 24-h, daytime and nighttime SBP and DBP. The patients were classified into two groups based on median 24-h SBP-SD (11.3 mmHg). LA features of the patients were compared according to the high and low BPV groups.

Results

One hundred and nineteen pregnant women (mean age, 28.6 ± 5.2 years) were included in the study. The mean office SBP and DBP were 108.7 ± 15.4 mmHg and 68.2 ± 10.2 mmHg, respectively. In pregnant women with high BPV, even though BP is normal, reservoir and conduit LA functions have decreased and LA stiffness has increased. Gestational hypertension and composite outcomes were more common in pregnant women with high BPV. Among the LA parameters, the most associated with composite outcome was conduit LA function.

Conclusion

In pregnancy, higher BPV is associated with worse LA function. The LA conduit strain offers potential value in predicting hypertension-related clinical outcomes in pregnancy.
Clinical relevance of low bone density in cystic fibrosis adult patients: A pilot study
Authors: Dury Sandra , Ancel Julien , Ravoninjatovo Bruno , Lambrecht Isabelle , Perotin Jeanne-Marie , Mulette Pauline , Lebargy François , Salmon Jean-Hugues , Deslée Gaëtan , Launois Claire
Published: January 2023

Survival improvement in cystic fibrosis (CF) is associated with more frequent long-term complications, including CF related bone disease (CFBD). Impact of CFBD on global health outcome remains poorly described. We aimed to assess the relationship between low bone mineral density (BMD) and spinal pain, disability, and quality of life in CF adult patients. This monocentric cross-sectional study with prospective data collection was conducted from November 2016 to December 2019 in the Department of Respiratory Diseases at the University Hospital of Reims (NCT02924818). BMD was assessed by X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Disability was assessed by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). Quality of life was assessed by both the St George’s Respiratory Questionnaire and the Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire for teenagers and adults (CFQ 14+). Forty patients were analyzed, 68% of men, with a median age of 25 years, a median body mass index of 21 kg/m² and a median FEV1% of 54%. Nine patients (23%) had spinal pain. Ten patients (25%) had a low BMD. Compared with patients with normal BMD, patients with low BMD had a significantly lower BMI (22 vs 19 kg/m²; P = .006) and less vitamin D supplementation (33% vs 0%; P = .035). Low BMD was not associated with spinal pain, disability and quality of life. Low BMD is frequent in CF, affecting 1-quarter of adult patients. No significant association was found between low BMD and spinal pain, disability or quality of life.
Impact of e-cigarettes as cancer risk: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: de Medeiros Kleyton Santos , Pacheco Beatriz Ferreira Pereira , de Oliveira Paula Ermans , de Góis Nogueira Ivna Letícia , Beserra Diógenes Vinícius Romeu , Fernandes Fernanda Gadelha , Fernandes Gabriela Cunha , de Moura Santos Edilmar , do Rêgo Amália Cinthia Menseses , Araújo-Filho Irami
Published: January 2023

Background:

The use of electronic cigarettes is one of the current public health problems on increasing alert, has been growing at an accelerating rate, and has become a public health emergency. Its importance is explained by the continuous growth and acceleration of oncological rates among all ages versus the absence of high-quality evidence, correlated to the use of nicotine derived products, being at their regular versions or the new ones. Available preclinical data indicate that activation of the sympathetic nervous system by nicotine inhaled from e-cigarettes may stimulate cancer development and growth by several mechanisms, which results can significantly reduce life’s quality. This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol aims to clarify the connection between the use of electronic cigarettes by adults over the age of 18 and the development of malignant neoplastic diseases.

Method:

The proposed systematic review and meta-analysis will be reported conforming to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines. Will include the following studies: case-control or cohort studies showing adults (18 years old age) using e-cigarettes. There will be no language or publication period restrictions. Articles published, but not peer-reviewed, will not be included in the review. Data will be entered in the Review Manager software (RevMan5.2.3). For dichotomous outcomes, we extracted or calculated the OR and 95% CI for each study. In case of heterogeneity (I²>50%), the random-effects model will be used to combine the studies to calculate the OR and 95% CI.
Carotid-body modulation through meditation in stage-I hypertensive subjects: Study protocol of a randomized and controlled study
Authors: Augusto Tiago Rodrigues de Lemos , Peroni Juliana , de Vargas Wandriane , Santos Priscilla Caroll , Dantas Wendel , Padavini Roberta Lazari , Koch Rodrigo , Saraiva Erlandson , Bastos Marco Aurélio Vinhosa , Müller Paulo de Tarso
Published: January 2023

Adjunctive therapy for hypertension is in high demand for clinical research. Therefore, several meta-analyses have provided sufficient evidence for meditation as an adjunct therapy, without being anchored on reliable physiological grounds. Meditation modulates the autonomic nervous system. Herein, we propose a hierarchical-dependent effect for the carotid body (CB) in attenuating blood pressure (BP) and ventilatory variability (VV) fine-tuning due to known nerve connections between the CB, prefrontal brain, hypothalamus, and solitary tract nucleus. The aim of this exploratory study was to investigate the role of CB in the possible decrease in BP and changes in VV that could occur in response to meditation. This was a prospective, single-center, parallel-group, randomized, controlled clinical trial with concealed allocation. Eligible adult subjects of both sexes with stage 1 hypertension will be randomized into 1 of 2 groups: transcendental meditation or a control group. Subjects will be invited to 3 visits after randomization and 2 additional visits after completing 8 weeks of meditation or waiting-list control. Thus, subjects will undergo BP measurements in normoxia and hyperoxia, VV measurements using the Poincaré method at rest and during exercise, and CB activity measurement in the laboratory. The primary outcome of this study was the detection of changes in BP and CB activity after 8 weeks. Our secondary outcome was the detection of changes in the VV at rest and during exercise. We predict that interactions between hyperoxic deactivation of CB and meditation; Will reduce BP beyond stand-alone intervention or alternatively; Meditation will significantly attenuate the effects of hyperoxia as a stand-alone intervention. In addition, VV can be changed, partially mediated by a reduction in CB activity. Trial registration number: ReBEC registry (RBR-55n74zm). Stage: pre-results.
Occupational health coaching for job stress management among technical college teachers: Implications for educational administrators
Authors: Ogakwu Nneka Vera , Ede Moses Onyemaechi , Manafa Ifeyinwa , Ede Kelechi Ruth , Omeke Faith , Agu Patricia U. , Nwosu Nneka , Onah Sebastian Okechukwu , Oneli Joy Obiageli , Okereke Godwin Keres Okoro
Published: January 2023

Background:

The need for stress management strategies has been empirically investigated and supported considering demands in workplaces. However, some people in public offices do not seem to have been exposed to occupational health strategies that could reduce the adverse impacts of stress on job productivity and quality of life. Consequently, they become susceptible to mental health disturbances requiring the attention of occupational therapists. Given this, we studied the impact of occupational health coaching for job stress management among technical college teachers.

Methods:

Using a randomized control design study, 90 technical college teachers were screened and ready to participate. The eligible teachers were included and assigned to intervention and control groups. An occupational stress index was given to the participants before, immediately after, and 2 months after the delivery of occupational coaching program by career counselors while the comparison group received no intervention. Data collected were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance analysis.

Results:

The results showed a significant improvement in the management of job stress after receiving rational emotive occupational health coaching. According to the multivariate analysis of variance analysis, there were between-group differences immediately after the intervention and 3 months later. As a result, the study suggested that career counselors and school management systems should incorporate rational-emotive behavioral therapy into workforce and workplace programs.
Medication analysis and pharmaceutical care for a child with Kawasaki disease: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lai Yingqiang , Feng Meirou , Deng Jianrong , Tan Benren , Ban Junfeng , Zheng Jinkun
Published: January 2023

Objective:

To explore the ideas and methods of clinical pharmacists regarding drug therapy for children with Kawasaki disease.

Methods:

By participating in a whole drug treatment process for a child with Kawasaki disease, the rationality of the drug treatment plan was analyzed, pharmaceutical care was provided for the child, and a pharmaceutical care model suited to this child was developed.

Results:

After treatment, the child was discharged from the hospital, and all signs and major inflammatory indicators returned to normal. The child’s parents were instructed to bring medication, visit regularly, and adjust medication.

Conclusion:

Through the entire process of pharmaceutical care, clinical pharmacists are able to identify and resolve drug treatment-related issues in a timely manner, and also make suggestions on rational drug use, which can improve the safety and compliance of drug use in children and the quality of clinical drug treatment.
Efficacy and safety of warm acupuncture combined with Western medicine for sciatica: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Lingling , Li Liang , Li Xiuli , Li Linghan , Zhang Lijin , Zhang Haixia
Published: January 2023

Background:

There are more and more clinical studies on the efficacy of warm acupuncture in treating sciatica, but the systematic review of the efficacy of warm acupuncture is still lacking. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of warm acupuncture combined with conventional Western medicine in the treatment of sciatica.

Methods:

The review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42022379486) and was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The following databases will be used to search the existing literature (from inception to January 2023): Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Wanfang, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, China Knowledge Network, and SPORT-Discus. Included studies are considered eligible if they met the population, intervention, comparator, outcomes, and study design criteria as follows: Population: patients with newly diagnosed sciatica; Intervention: warm acupuncture combined with conventional Western medicine; Comparator: Western medicine alone; Outcomes: total response rate, pain score and pain threshold, adverse events and recurrence rate. Study design: randomized controlled trials or non-randomized cohort studies. Review Manager (RevMan) V.5.3 will be used to perform statistical analyses and to generate forest plots.

Results:

The review will add to the existing literature by showing compelling evidence and improved guidance in clinic settings.
Association of vitamin D receptor polymorphisms with colorectal cancer susceptibility: A systematic meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Maoquan , Ji Wansheng , Xu Ning , zong Chuanju , Gu Jinhua , Guo Xiaojing , Zhang Li
Published: January 2023

Background:

Recent studies have reported an association between vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk; however, the results are controversial. This meta-analysis was performed to investigate whether the Cdx-2, Tru9I, FokI, BsmI, TaqI, and ApaI polymorphisms were correlated with CRC susceptibility.

Methods:

All potential studies were retrieved by searching the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases through October 2, 2021. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals were used to evaluate the correlation between VDR gene Cdx-2, Tru9I, FokI, BsmI, TaqI, and ApaI polymorphisms and CRC risk.

Results:

In this meta-analysis, the BsmI variant was significantly correlated with a lower risk of CRC, especially in Caucasian population (B vs b: OR 0.94, 95%CI 0.90–0.99; BB vs bb: OR 0.88; 95%CI 0.79–0.97; BB vs Bb/bb: BB vs Bb/bb: OR 0.89; 95%CI 0.81–0.98). A statistically significant result from the FokI polymorphism was observed in colon cancer rather than rectal cancer (Ff vs FF: OR 0.86, 95%CI 0.84–0.93; ff/Ff vs FF: OR 0.88, 95%CI 0.79–0.98; ff vs Ff/FF: OR 0.90, 95%CI 0.82–0.99). Similarly, Cdx-2 polymorphism was found to be associated with decreased CRC risk among Africans (C vs c: OR 0.50, 95%CI 0.33–0.75; CC vs cc: OR 0.09, 95%CI 0.01–0.77; Cc vs cc: OR 0.49, 95%CI 0.30–0.81; CC/Cc vs cc: OR 0.45, 95%CI 0.28–0.74,).

Conclusion:

Our findings indicate that VDR polymorphisms are significantly associated with CRC risk.
The LDL-C/Apo B predicts coronary atherosclerotic heart disease in non-diabetic patients without high LDL-C
Authors: Jung Hae Won , Ra Moni , Bae Han Joon , Hong Seung-Pyo
Published: January 2023

The apolipoprotein B (Apo B), Apo B/A1 ratio, lipoprotein (a), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)/Apo B ratio are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). However, the association between these parameters and CAD in non-diabetic patients without high LDL-C levels is unclear. Our goal was to assess which parameter was most strongly associated with CAD in non-diabetic patients without high LDL-C levels. This study included 487 non-diabetic patients with LDL-C < 130.0 mg/dL. All the patients underwent coronary computed tomographic angiography. We assessed the significance of each continuous atherogenic biomarker for CAD (incidence of coronary plaque and revascularization) without and after adjustment for standard risk factors. The LDL-C/Apo B ratio and lipoprotein (a) were significant risk factors for the incidence of coronary plaque on multivariate analysis after adjustment for standard risk factors. The LDL-C/Apo B ratio was significant for the incidence of revascularization in multivariate analysis after adjustment for standard risk factors. The degree of coronary calcification and plaque burden according to the tertile of LDL-C/Apo B showed significant differences between the groups. Our data indicate that LDL-C/Apo B ratio is the most predictive parameter for coronary atherosclerosis in non-diabetic patients without high LDL-C levels.
Willingness of intensive care unit patients’ family members to donate organs: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chen Yu-Chun , Fang Chiu-Shu , Tsai Chi-Lun
Published: January 2023

The large gap between the demand for, and the supply of organs worldwide makes promoting organ donation an important global social issue. Even after someone has signed a consent form or registered for organ donation, ethically, the hospital still requires a family member’s written permission before organ donation can proceed. As a result, a family member rather than the patient makes the final decision. This study investigated the willingness of the family members of hypothetical patients in intensive care units (ICUs) suffering from an irreversible condition to sign an organ donation consent form. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among family members of ICU patients recruited from one medical center in southern Taiwan from April to October 2014, which followed the STROBE guidelines. Of 110 ICU family members, 71 (64.5%) were willing to donate the organs of hypothetical patients with irreversible conditions. Based on logistic regression, family support, attitude, and knowledge of organ donation significantly predicted 34% of the variance in willingness to sign consent. Attitude toward organ donation and behavioral knowledge of organ donation correlated significantly with a willingness to sign a consent form. This study found that family support and organ donation attitudes were important factors in predicting the willingness to sign a consent form for the organ donation of hypothetical patients. The study provides evidence that nurses and healthcare staff need to consider family support and educate families on organ donation to encourage potential donors to accept and agree to organ donation.
The association of demographic and socioeconomic factors with COVID-19 during pre- and post-vaccination periods: A cross-sectional study of Virginia
Authors: Tan Wanli
Published: January 2023

Sociodemographic factors have been found to be associated with the transmission of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), yet most studies focused on the period before the proliferation of vaccination and obtained inconclusive results. In this cross-sectional study, the infections, deaths, incidence rates, case fatalities, and mortalities of Virginia’s 133 jurisdictions during the pre-vaccination and post-vaccination periods were compared, and their associations with demographic and socioeconomic factors were studied. The cumulative infections and deaths and medians of incidence rates, case fatalities, and mortalities of COVID-19 in 133 Virginia jurisdictions were significantly higher during the post-vaccination period than during the pre-vaccination period. A variety of demographic and socioeconomic risk factors were significantly associated with COVID-19 prevalence in Virginia. Multiple linear regression analysis suggested that demographic and socioeconomic factors contributed up to 80% of the variation in the infections, deaths, and incidence rates and up to 53% of the variation in the case fatalities and mortalities of COVID-19 in Virginia. The demographic and socioeconomic determinants differed during the pre- and post-vaccination periods. The developed multiple linear regression models could be used to effectively characterize the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors on the infections, deaths, and incidence rates of COVID-19 in Virginia.
The cutoff value of presepsin for diagnosing sepsis increases with kidney dysfunction, a cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Dragoş Dorin , Ghenu Maria Iuliana , Timofte Delia , Balcangiu-Stroescu Andra-Elena , Ionescu Dorin , Manea Maria Mirabela
Published: January 2023

As presepsin levels increase with kidney dysfunction (KD), our aim was to establish cutoff points for presepsin adapted to the level of KD in order to avoid bacterial infection overdiagnosis, antibiotic overprescription, and risk of bacterial resistance. This is a unicenter retrospective study, which included all patients admitted on an emergency basis to 2 departments of a teaching hospital during a 2-year interval to whom presepsin level was determined at the emergency department prior to admission. Serum creatinine (sCrt) was employed to estimate the severity of KD using 3 thresholds (1.5, 2, and 4 mg/dL) resulting in 4 degrees of severity: KD_1, KD_2, KD_3, KD_4. There is an ascending exponential relationship between presepsin and sCrt: presepsin = 600.03e0.212sCrt. Presepsin levels are significantly different between the patients with KD_1, KD_2, KD_3, and KD_4. In the receiver operating characteristic curves exploring the usefulness of presepsin in sepsis diagnosis, the area under the curve was satisfactory for KD_1 (0.78), KD_2 (0.78), and KD_3 (0.82), but unacceptably low for KD_4 (0.59), while the optimal cutoff points were (depending on the computational method) 700/ 982, 588/ 1125, 1065, and 2260 pg/mL for KD_1, KD_2, KD_3, and KD_4 respectively. The threshold for abnormal presepsin should be about 600, 1000, and 1300 pg/mL in patients with KD_1, KD_2, and KD_3, respectively. In patients with KD_4, presepsin has a poor discriminating power for sepsis diagnosis. If, notwithstanding, it is used for this purpose, the cutoff point should be at least at 2200.
Investigation of anti-galectin-8 levels in patients with multiple sclerosis: A consort-clinical study
Authors: Cinkir Ufuk , Bir Levent Sinan , Tekin Selma , Karagulmez Ahmet Magrur , Avci Cicek Esin , Senol Hande
Published: January 2023

Background:

Galectins are a family of endogenous mammalian lectins involved in pathogen recognition, killing, and facilitating the entry of microbial pathogens and parasites into the host. They are the intermediators that decipher glycan-containing information about the host immune cells and microbial structures to modulate signaling events that cause cellular proliferation, chemotaxis, cytokine secretion, and cell-to-cell communication. They have subgroups that take place in different roles in the immune system. The effect of galectin-8 on multiple sclerosis disease (MS) has been studied in the literature, but the results seemed unclear. In this study, we aimed to determine anti-galectin-8 (anti-Gal-8) levels in MS and their potential use as biomarkers.

Methods:

In this experimental study, 45 MS patients diagnosed according to McDonald criteria were included in the patient group. The healthy control group contained 45 people without MS diagnosis and any risk factors. Demographic data, height, weight, body mass index, blood glucose, thyroid-stimulating hormone, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, creatinine, low-density lipoprotein, anti-Gal-8 levels, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease were recorded. In addition, the expanded disability status scale and disease duration were evaluated in the patient group. Data were presented as mean ± standard deviations.

Results:

The mean blood anti-galectin-8 value of the patient group was 4.84 ± 4.53 ng/mL, while it was 4.67 ± 3.40 ng/mL in the control group, and the difference in these values was found statistically insignificant (P > .05). Moreover, body mass index, glucose, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, thyroid-stimulating hormone, and low-density lipoprotein levels were also statistically insignificant (P > .05).

Conclusion:

This study examined anti-Gal-8 levels in MS patients. The relationship between MS and galectin-8 and anti-Gal-8 levels in patients needs further clarification. As a result, the study’s results could help elucidate the pathogenesis of MS and give more evidence for diagnosis.