bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Phenotyping of Chronic Low Back Pain: Protocol for BACPAC
Authors: Quirk D Adam , Johnson Marit E , Anderson Dennis E , Smuck Matthew , Sun Ruopeng , Matthew Robert , Bailey Jeannie , Marras William S , Bell Kevin M , Darwin Jessa , Bowden Anton E
Published: October 2022

Objective

Biomechanics represents the common final output through which all biopsychosocial constructs of back pain must pass, making it a rich target for phenotyping. To exploit this feature, several sites within the NIH Back Pain Consortium (BACPAC) have developed biomechanics measurement and phenotyping tools. The overall aims of this article were to: 1) provide a narrative review of biomechanics as a phenotyping tool; 2) describe the diverse array of tools and outcome measures that exist within BACPAC; and 3) highlight how leveraging these technologies with the other data collected within BACPAC could elucidate the relationship between biomechanics and other metrics used to characterize low back pain (LBP).

Methods

The narrative review highlights how biomechanical outcomes can discriminate between those with and without LBP, as well as among levels of severity of LBP. It also addresses how biomechanical outcomes track with functional improvements in LBP. Additionally, we present the clinical use case for biomechanical outcome measures that can be met via emerging technologies.

Results

To answer the need for measuring biomechanical performance, our “Results” section describes the spectrum of technologies that have been developed and are being used within BACPAC.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The outcome measures collected by these technologies will be an integral part of longitudinal and cross-sectional studies conducted in BACPAC. Linking these measures with other biopsychosocial data collected within BACPAC increases our potential to use biomechanics as a tool for understanding the mechanisms of LBP, phenotyping unique LBP subgroups, and matching these individuals with an appropriate treatment paradigm.
Fetal blockade of nicotinic acetylcholine transmission causes autism-like impairment of biological motion preference in the neonatal chick
Authors: Matsushima Toshiya , Miura Momoko , Patzke Nina , Toji Noriyuki , Wada Kazuhiro , Ogura Yukiko , Homma Koichi J , Sgadò Paola , Vallortigara Giorgio
Published: October 2022

Several environmental chemicals are suspected risk factors for autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including valproic acid (VPA) and pesticides acting on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), if administered during pregnancy. However, their target processes in fetal neuro-development are unknown. We report that the injection of VPA into the fetus impaired imprinting to an artificial object in neonatal chicks, while a predisposed preference for biological motion (BM) remained intact. Blockade of nAChRs acted oppositely, sparing imprinting and impairing BM preference. Beside ketamine and tubocurarine, significant effects of imidacloprid (a neonicotinoid insecticide) appeared at a dose ≤1 ppm. In accord with the behavioral dissociations, VPA enhanced histone acetylation in the primary cell culture of fetal telencephalon, whereas ketamine did not. VPA reduced the brain weight and the ratio of NeuN-positive cells (matured neurons) in the telencephalon of hatchlings, whereas ketamine/tubocurarine did not. Despite the distinct underlying mechanisms, both VPA and nAChR blockade similarly impaired imprinting to biological image composed of point-light animations. Furthermore, both impairments were abolished by postnatal bumetanide treatment, suggesting a common pathology underlying the social attachment malformation. Neurotransmission via nAChR is thus critical for the early social bond formation, which is hindered by ambient neonicotinoids through impaired visual predispositions for animate objects.
Temporal and Spatial Dynamics of Bacterial and Fungal Microbiomes in Nursery Soils Post-Steaming
Authors: Crandall Sharifa G. , Miles Asha M. , Chung Taejung , Cloutier Mara L. , García-Rodríguez Raymond , Schweigkofler Wolfgang , Couradeau Estelle
Published: October 2022

A major concern for plant nurseries and land stewards is managing pathogens that induce soilborne diseases. Plant diseases cost nurseries millions of dollars in lost revenue and plant pathogens spread into the environment from nursery soil used for out-plantings. Recent research shows that steaming soil at high temperatures can effectively kill plant pathogens; however, few studies have investigated the influence of steaming on the soil microbiome, an essential component of plant health. We conducted a controlled experiment where nursery soil underwent a steaming event within a rectangular mesocosm (2.04 × 3.55 × 0.25 m) located at the National Ornamentals Research Site at Dominican University (NORS-DUC) (San Rafael, CA, U.S.A.). Soil samples were collected at four time points post-steaming. Thirty-two soil samples were used for DNA extraction and 18 for chemical analysis. The 16S rRNA gene and ITS genetic markers were used for amplicon-based sequencing to identify the bacterial and fungal soil communities. Results indicate that microbial diversity and composition shifted over time but that soil depth was not an important factor. Important bacterial taxa were the Firmicutes, especially 1 day post-steaming, and common fungal taxa included Aspergillus sp., Cladosporium sp., and Pseudallescheria sp. Plant nutrients such as B, C, Cl, K, Mg, SO4, and Zn, in addition to essential soil properties such as CEC, gypsum, moisture, and SAR, changed significantly with soil recovery. These results can help nursery practitioners make informed decisions for biotic and nutrient amendments post-steaming to promote soil and plant health.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2023 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Lipid Lowering in “Very High Risk” Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery and Its Projected Reduction in Risk for Recurrent Vascular Events: A Monte Carlo Stepwise Simulation Approach
Authors: Deo Salil , Ueda Peter , Sheikh Adil Muhammad , Altarabsheh Salah , Elgudin Yakov , Rubelowsky Joseph , Cmolik Brian , Hawkins Neil , McAllister David , Ruel Marc , Sattar Naveed , Pell Jill
Published: October 2022

2018 AHA guidelines provide criteria to identify patients at very high risk (VHR) for adverse vascular events and recommend an low density lipoprotein-C (LDL-C) level <1.8 mmol/L. Data regarding the 10-year risk for adverse vascular events in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients at VHR and the need for nonstatin therapies in the VHR cohort are limited. We queried a national cohort of CABG patients to answer these questions. The projected reduction of LDL-C from stepwise escalation of lipid-lowering therapy (LLT) was simulated; Monte Carlo methods were used to account for patient-level heterogeneity in treatment effects. Data on preoperative statin therapy and LDL-C levels were obtained. In the first scenario, all eligible patients not at target LDL-C received high-intensity statins, followed by ezetimibe and then alirocumab; alternatively, bempedoic acid was also used. The 10-year risk for an adverse vascular event was estimated using a validated risk score. Potential risk reduction was estimated after simulating maximal LLT. Before CABG, 8948 of 27,443 patients (median LDL-C 85 mg/dL) were at VHR. In the whole cohort, 31% were receiving high-intensity statins. With stepwise LLT escalation, the proportion of patients at target were 60%, 78%, 86%, and 97% after high-intensity statins, ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, and alirocumab, respectively. The projected 10-year risk to suffer a vascular event reduced by 4.6%. A large proportion of CABG patients who are at VHR for vascular events fail to meet 2018 AHA LDL-C targets. A stepwise approach, particularly with the use of bempedoic acid, can significantly reduce the need for more expensive proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 inhibitors.
Intraoperative “Spare Parts”: A Novel High-fidelity Suturing Model for Trainees
Authors: Pardell Noah , Dumestre Danielle
Published: October 2022

Many models exist to help the medical student learn how to suture at a competency level required to progress to suturing on patients. However, these models do not readily simulate the qualities of live human tissue. We propose a simple intraoperative high-fidelity model that places the excised autologous patient tissue (eg, panniculectomy and breast reduction) on a sterile side table to allow the trainee to practice their skills alongside the staff surgeon on comparable tissue for the remainder of the case. We believe that the adoption of this practice allows a unique opportunity for medical students to advance their suturing techniques in a low-stress environment with staff surgeon guidance, further preparing them to perform high-quality closures on live patients.
Cytokine Profiling in Influenza A Virus and Staphylococcal (Co-)Infections
Authors: Tölken Lea A. , Paulikat Antje D. , Cuypers Fabian , Skorka Sebastian B. , Hammerschmidt Sven , Siemens Nikolai
Published: October 2022

Influenza A virus and Staphylococcus aureus are common causative agents of pneumonia. Co-infections with these two pathogens frequently occur and are characterized, among others, by higher morbidity and mortality due to hyper-inflammation of the lungs. Here, we aimed to profile systemic and local cytokine composition at early acute stages of pneumonia in a murine model. All mice recovered from single influenza A virus and/or staphylococcal infections. In contrast, co-infections led to a severe clinical outcome. While distinct cytokine patterns were detected in lungs of single-pathogen-infected animals, co-infections combined both virus- and bacteria-driven responses. However, analyses of infected human primary monocytic cells as well as bronchial epithelial cells did not reflect murine profiles. Based on infectious dose, mainly bacteria-driven responses were noted. The impact of single cells to cytokine composition of the lungs and translation of murine studies to humans remains uncertain and warrants further studies.
Sleep disruption and activation of cellular inflammation mediate heightened pain sensitivity: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Irwin Michael R. , Olmstead Richard , Bjurstrom Martin F. , Finan Patrick H. , Smith Michael T.
Published: October 2022

Sleep loss heightens pain sensitivity, but the pathways underlying this association are not known. Given that experimental sleep disruption induces increases in cellular inflammation as well as selective loss of slow wave, N3 sleep, this study examined whether these mechanisms contribute to pain sensitivity following sleep loss in healthy adults. This assessor-blinded, cross-over sleep condition, single-site, randomized clinical trial enrolled 95 healthy adults (mean [SD] age, 27.8 [6.4]; female, 44 [53.7%]). The 2 sleep conditions were 2 nights of undisturbed sleep (US) and 2 nights of sleep disruption or forced awakening (FA, 8 pseudorandomly distributed awakenings and 200 minutes wake time during the 8-hour sleep opportunity), administered in a cross-over design after 2 weeks of washout and in a random order (FA-US; US-FA). Primary outcome was heat pain threshold (hPTH). Sleep architecture was assessed by polysomnography, and morning levels of cellular inflammation were evaluated by Toll-like receptor-4 stimulated monocyte intracellular proinflammatory cytokine production. As compared with US, FA was associated with decreases in the amount of slow wave or N3 sleep (P < 0.001), increases in Toll-like receptor-4 stimulated production of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α (P = 0.03), and decreases in hPTH (P = 0.02). A comprehensive causal mediation analysis found that FA had an indirect effect on hPTH by decreases in N3 sleep and subsequent increases in inflammation (estimate=−0.15; 95% confidence interval, −0.30 to −0.03; P < 0.05) with the proportion mediated 34.9%. Differential loss of slow wave, N3 sleep, and increases in cellular inflammation are important drivers of pain sensitivity after sleep disruption.

Clinical Trials Registration: NCT01794689.
Endoscopic Ischial Tuberosity Osteophyte Resection for Treatment of Ischiofemoral Impingement: A Case Report
Authors: Ge Xingtao , Cheng Kai , Cao Fangfang , Wang Bin , Wang Xishan , Wang Chen , Li Changhui , Chen Longgang
Published: October 2022

Ischiofemoral impingement is a distinct pathologic finding with abnormal osseous contact between the ischium and the lesser trochanter of the femur. Lesser trochanter excision has been recommended for recalcitrant ischiofemoral impingement through an open or endoscopic approach; however, no study has included ischial tuberosity osteophyte resection and refixation of the hamstring tendon. We report an endoscopic procedure involving ischial tuberosity osteophyte resection with refixation of the partially detached hamstring insertion through a posterior approach in the prone position. Using this technique, it is easier to reach the lesion and less likely to injure the sciatic nerve. The postoperative pain score (visual analogy score) was significantly decreased, the modified Harris hip score increased from 39 preoperatively to 86 postoperatively, and there was no adverse effect on the hamstring tendon.
Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis on the mechanism of Baihe Zhimu decoction in the treatment of postpartum depression
Authors: Zhao Qiong , Pan Wengu , Shi Hongshuo , Qi Fanghua , Liu Yuan , Yang Tiantian , Si Hao , Si Guomin
Published: October 2022

Baihe Zhimu decoction (BZD) has significant antidepressant properties and is widely used to treat mental diseases. However, the multitarget mechanism of BZD in postpartum depression (PPD) remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the molecular mechanisms of BDZ in treating PPD using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Active components and their target proteins were screened from the traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). The PPD-related targets were obtained from the OMIM, CTD, and GeneCards databases. After overlap, the targets of BZD against PPD were collected. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and core target analyses were conducted using the STRING network platform and Cytoscape software. Moreover, molecular docking methods were used to confirm the high affinity between BZD and targets. Finally, the DAVID online tool was used to perform gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis of overlapping targets. The TCMSP database showed that BZD contained 23 active ingredients in PPD. KEGG analysis showed that overlapping genes were mainly enriched in HIF-1, dopaminergic synapses, estrogen, and serotonergic synaptic signalling pathways. Combining the PPI network and KEGG enrichment analysis, we found that ESR1, MAOA, NR3C1, VEGFA, and mTOR were the key targets of PPD. In addition, molecular docking confirmed the high affinity between BZD and the PPD target. Verified by a network pharmacology approach based on data mining and molecular docking methods, the multi-target drug BZD may serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for PPD, but further in vivo/in vitro experiments are needed.
Anatomical structures and needling method of the back-shu points BL18, BL20, and BL22 related to gastrointestinal organs: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review of acupoints and exploratory mechanism analysis
Authors: Cho Yeonwoo , Han Yaejin , Kim Yeji , Han Sihyun , Oh Kichang , Chae Hyocheong , Hongmin Chu , Ryu Myungseok
Published: October 2022

Background:

Acupuncture treatment on back-shu points (BSPs) has received attention owing its ability to control the function of visceral organs. We aimed to conduct a systematic review to provide detailed information on the effectiveness and safety of BL18, BL20, and BL22 on the digestive system in terms of soft tissue and anatomical structure and assist in the appropriate application.

Methods:

Medline, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, OASIS, RISS, and CNKI were searched from their inception to July 2021. This systematic review included randomized controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, case series, and case reports that addressed anatomical structures or needling methods of BL18, BL20, and BL22.

Results:

In total, 115 articles were included from the 7 electronic databases. One hundred eight articles described the depth and method. A total of 96 articles described depth, 86 articles described the angle, and 74 articles described both. Seventy-nine articles described the target muscles and anatomical structure. Acupuncture on BSP is effective in gastrointestinal diseases because of compression of the spinal nerve, sympathetic nerve hyperactivity, and connection of the diaphragm. By reviewing each study’s acupuncture method and target muscles, we analyzed the angle and depth of the needle that effectively leads to therapeutic response.

Conclusions:

This study provides guidance on applying needles in terms of anatomical structures to yield therapeutic responses. However, few studies have assessed how to effectively stimulate BSP to trigger digestive effects and their mechanisms. Additional studies on the relationship between BSP and the digestive system are needed to use these acupoints for digestive diseases.
Performance of the 2017 EULAR/ACR criteria for idiopathic inflammatory myopathies in a cohort of patients from Latin America
Authors: Valenzuela Antonia , Torres Magdalena , Devés José Domingo
Published: October 2022

We aimed to determine the performance of the 2017 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology (EULAR/ACR) classification criteria for idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) in a cohort of Chilean patients. This single-center retrospective study included 151 patients with a clinical diagnosis of IIM. Patients were classified according to the 2017 EULAR/ACR classification criteria for IIM, and its performance was compared to the Bohan & Peter (B&P) classification criteria. A total of 135 patients (89.4%) met the EULAR/ACR criteria, and 140 (92.7%) patients met the B&P criteria. A total of 130 patients had IIM according to both the criteria; concordance rate was 29.2% for definite IIM, 6.2% for probable IIM, and 1.5% for possible IIM. The kappa coefficient of agreement was weak between the 2 classification criteria (κ = 0.39, SD 0.15–0.64). Against gold standard expert physician’s diagnosis, sensitivity, and specificity of EULAR/ACR criteria was 0.86 and 0.85 to diagnose dermatomyositis, respectively, and 0.73 and 0.87 to diagnose polymyositis. The EULAR/ACR criteria showed good sensitivity and identified more patients with probable or definite IIM than the B&P criteria in a single-center cohort of patients with IIM in South America. The sensitivity of the EULAR/ACR criteria was slightly higher in patients with dermatomyositis, but lower in patients with polymyositis, than that of the B&P criteria.
Impaired rate-dependent depression of the H-reflex in type-2 diabetes, prediabetes, overweight and obesity: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Salinas Luisa Fernanda , Trujillo-Condes Virgilio Eduardo , Tecuatl Carolina , Delgado-Lezama Rodolfo , Cuellar Carlos A
Published: October 2022

Type-2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, resulting from deficits in insulin secretion or insulin resistance. According to the International Diabetes Federation, approximately 463 million people suffered from this condition in 2019, with a rapidly increasing impact in low-and middle-income countries. Obesity is a well-known risk factor for diabetes, and current data project a continuous increase in diabetes prevalence worldwide in obese individuals. Among the common complications, diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) causes sensory symptoms, including pain that contributes to foot ulceration, and if not controlled, limb amputation may occur. The diagnosis of DPN is a clinical problem. Rate-dependent depression (RDD) of the Hoffmann reflex in the lower limbs has been proposed as a test to determine the presence of neuropathic pain in subjects with type-1 and type-2 diabetes. Recently, impaired RDD has been described in obese and diabetic rodent models. In this study, we characterized the RDD by evaluating the H-reflex at 0.2, 1, 2, 5, and 10 Hz in 39 patients with type-2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 42 controls without diabetes, subsequently classified as overweight/obese and prediabetic. A significant decrease in the RDD of the H-reflex was found in T2DM subjects at 1, 2, 5, and 10 Hz (P < .001) stimulation frequencies compared to controls, but not at 0.2 Hz (P = .48). A major finding of this study is that impaired RDD was also found in 11/25 overweight and obese subjects in at least 2 stimulation frequencies, being 10 of those classified in prediabetic levels according to their HbA1C values. The RDD of the H-reflex could be used as a quantitative and sensitive tool to study T2DM subpopulations with peripheral neuropathy. RDD could be used as a screening tool in combination with clinical tests to diagnose DPN and evaluate the progression of this condition.
The effect of probiotics on functional constipation in adults: A randomized, double-blind controlled trial
Authors: Mitelmão Fabiana Cristina Rosa , Häckel Karin , Bergamaschi Cristiane de Cássia , Gerenutti Marli , Silva Marcus Tolentino , Balcão Victor Manuel , Vila Marta Maria Duarte Carvalho
Published: October 2022

Background:

Two formulations were developed in the form of an oral sachet containing probiotics, and their efficacy and safety were evaluated in adults with functional constipation.

Methods:

One formulation with Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus (3 billion Colony Forming Units - CFU); and another with Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium animallis (8 billion CFU). The participants were randomized in a 3-arm parallel study and one oral sachet was auto-administered once a day for 30 days.

Results:

Primary outcomes were improvement in increasing the frequency of weekly bowel movements and improvement in stool quality. Secondary outcomes were number of adverse events. In the first week one observed an increase in stool frequency and in the quality of stools, showing an improvement in constipation. No statistically significant differences were observed between the three treatment groups in relation to these outcomes (P ≥ .05). Only one adverse event was observed in a patient of group 2, related to abdominal pain.

Conclusion:

The two probiotic cocktails were effective in improving the symptoms of functional constipation, by increasing both the weekly frequency of evacuation and stool quality, and were deemed safe. Clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT04437147.
Serum SALL4 as a predictive biomarker for the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent nonsurgical treatment
Authors: Chen Zhixian , Wu Huifeng , Jiang Simin , Liu Xingli , Luo Meihua , Yuan Yawei
Published: October 2022

To investigate the role of serum spalt like transcription factor 4 (SALL4) in the hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with nonsurgical treatment. Serum samples were collected from 101 patients with HCC without surgical treatment, then the SALL4 was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. According to subsequent treatment, patients were divided into 2 groups, best supportive care (BSC) (58 cases) and nonsurgical anticancer treatment (NSAT) (48 cases). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and Cox multivariate regression analysis were applied to evaluate the relationship between SALL4 and survival time of 2 groups. In BSC group, there was no significant difference of the survival time between 2 groups (SALL4 < 800 ng/mL or SALL4 ≥ 800 ng/mL) (P = .339). In NSAT group, the survival time of patients with low SALL4 concentration was significantly longer than patients with high SALL4 concentration (P = .005). SALL4 have no predictive effect in BSC patients with HCC. But for patients received NSAT, low SALL4 concentration in serum may indicate longer survival.
Efficacy and safety of Xuefu Zhuyu Granules combined with western medicine in the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease: A study protocol of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Liu Dong , Zeng Yunjie , Liang Peng , Jiang Yunlu , An Su , Ren Pengcheng
Published: October 2022

Background:

Despite advances in treatment strategies for coronary heart disease, angina pectoris remains a major cardiovascular disease causing death worldwide. For patients with angina pectoris of coronary heart disease, new or adjuvant treatment regimens are needed. The available evidence suggests that Xuefu Zhuyu Granules combined with Western medicine has advantages in the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease, but whether its efficacy has a placebo effect and whether it can be used as an adjuvant regimen for the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease remains controversial.

Methods:

This is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to study the efficacy and safety of Xuefu Zhuyu Granules combined with Western medicine in the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease. Participants will be randomly divided into a treatment group or a control group, and all patients will receive Western medicine treatment based on guideline recommendations. On this basis, the treatment group orally takes Xuefu Zhuyu Granules and the control group orally takes Xuefu Zhuyu Granules mimic, and are followed up for 24 weeks after 12 weeks of continuous treatment. The observation indexes include: cardiac function parameters (left ventricular end-diastolic diameter; left ventricular end-systolic diameter; left ventricular ejection fraction, blood lipid levels (total cholesterol; triacylglycerol; low-density lipoprotein cholesterol; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), the number of angina attacks per week, total amount of nitroglycerin tablets taken, and adverse reactions. Finally, SPSS22.0 (IBM Company, New York, NY) software will be used for statistical analysis of the data.

Discussion:

This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of Xuefu Zhuyu Granules combined with Western medicine in the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease. The results of this study will verify whether the efficacy of Xuefu Zhuyu Granules in the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease belongs to the placebo effect, which will also provide a reference for the clinical use of Xuefu Zhuyu Granules as a supplementary scheme for the treatment of angina pectoris of coronary heart disease.
Prognostic nutritional index as outcome predictor in patients with iliopsoas abscess
Authors: Matsuo Tomomasa , Fujita Yasuhiko , Amagai Teruyoshi
Published: October 2022

Cases with iliopsoas abscess (IPA) in a single hospital-based cases were reviewed and compared with clinical profiles of published hospital-based IPA series. To verify usefulness of prognostic nutritional index (PNI) used to predict outcome and severity of IPA, this study was performed. This study consists of 2 parts: Study 1 – Case review of IPA series in a single hospital: 7 cases with IPA treated in a single hospital in sequential 5 years were collected (series 1) and their clinical profiles compared. Study 2 – Review of hospital-based literature: A search of the PubMed database from 1990 to the present was performed, using the Boolean expression ([Psoas OR iliopsoas] AND [abscess] AND [hospital-based]). Two hospital-based case series were collected. The clinical profiles of 2 series were compared with series 1 to draw predictive factors of outcome and deciding treatment modality, medical or surgical. Study 1 – Analyzing 7 IPA cases, average age was 76.7 years old (varying from 64 to 91) and the lifesaving rate was 86%. PNI < 45, calculated with serum albumin (Alb) and total lymphocyte count, and larger cumulative abscess volume (CAV) measured by computed tomography seem outcome predictors. Study 2 – Analyzing 2 hospital-based IPA series (series 2 and 3), series 2 reviewed isolated IPA cases without any comorbidities and series 3 reviewed IPA cases with cardiovascular disorders. Among 3 series including ours, series 1 showed oldest case and longer length of hospitalization. Series 3 showed the highest mortality among 3 because it collected IPA with cardiovascular comorbidities. PNI seems predictors of outcome and disease activity in patients with IPA and might indicate treated with surgical intervention.
Prevalence of oral Epstein-Barr virus and Porphyromonas gingivalis and their association with periodontal inflamed surface area: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Shigeishi Hideo , Oka Iori , Su Cheng-Yih , Hamada Natsuki , Nakamura Mariko , Nishimura Rumi , Sugiyama Masaru , Ohta Kouji
Published: October 2022

We previously reported that oral herpesviruses, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), are associated with periodontitis. However, the relationship between oral EBV or dual oral EBV and Porphyromonas gingivalis infections and periodontal inflammation severity remains unclear. We conducted this study to determine the relationship between oral EBV and P gingivalis prevalence and the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA) in middle-aged and older adults. We analyzed 205 patients (median age, 70 years) who visited Hiroshima University Hospital. Tongue swab samples were used to investigate the presence of EBV and P gingivalis DNA using real-time PCR. Probing pocket depth and bleeding on probing were measured at 6 sites per tooth. PISA scores were calculated based on the results of probing pocket depth and bleeding on probing. Propensity scores were calculated via logistic regression analysis of 8 clinical factors: age, sex, smoking status, remaining teeth, denture use, hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. EBV DNA was present in 41 of the 205 participants (20.0%). Thirty-seven EBV-positive or -negative participants in 74 matched pairs after propensity-score matching were examined via univariate analysis. EBV-positive participants exhibited higher plaque control record scores and PISAs than did EBV-negative participants. EBV DNA was significantly associated with plaque control record scores and PISA (both P = .04). Of the 205 participants, 111 were positive for P gingivalis (54.1%). Nineteen participants (9.3%) were infected with both oral EBV and P gingivalis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that dual infection with EBV and P gingivalis was significantly associated with diabetes (odds ratio = 3.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.13–10.1; P = .03). Oral EBV prevalence is associated with oral hygiene and the spread of inflamed periodontal tissue. Diabetes may be a risk factor for dual infection with oral EBV and P gingivalis.
Analysis of changes in the pathophysiology of nocturia according to the number of nocturia episode, age, and gender using frequency volume charts: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Yoon Ji Hyung , Lee Kisoo , Park Eun Ji , Kwon Taekmin , Park Sungchan , Moon Kyung Hyun , Kim Seong Cheol
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate the pathophysiology of nocturia based on the frequency volume chart, and determine the risk factors for nocturia occurring ≥2 times per night.

Materials and methods:

In this retrospective study, we reviewed 311 patients with complaints of nocturia from January 2017 to February 2019 at our institution. Nocturnal polyuria (NP) and global polyuria (GP) were defined as NP index >0.35 regardless of age and 24 h urine volume >2.5 L/day, respectively. Decreased bladder capacity (dBC) was when the maximal voided volume was <325 mL. Decreased nocturnal bladder capacity (dNBC) was defined as nocturnal bladder capacity index >0.

Results:

In total, 273 patients were included in the primary analyses. Of 802 days from 273 frequency volume charts, the median number of nocturia was 1 episode per day. Further, NP (odds ratios [OR] 7.01), GP (OR 4.25), dBC (OR 3.00), dNBC (OR 10.12), and age (OR 1.04) had the association with nocturia ≥2 times per night. There was a significant stepwise increase in NP, dNBC, dBC, and GP with the number of nocturia episodes. As patient age increased, the likelihood of NP (P < 0.001) and dBC (P < 0.001) being the cause for nocturia tended to increase, but that of dNBC (P = 0.022) and nocturia without cause (P = 0.007) tended to decrease. Moreover, dBC was more likely to cause nocturia in female patients than in male patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

NP, dBC, dNBC, and GP are important factors involved in the pathophysiology of nocturia occurring ≥2 times per night.
Human chorionic gonadotropin elevation in gliomatosis peritonei complicated with immature teratoma: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Guo Fei , Liu Yukai , Lu Jiaqi , Wu Zhiyong , Zhu Xiaoyong
Published: October 2022

Rationale:

Gliomatosis peritonei (GP) refers to the implantation of glial tissue on the visceral and parietal peritoneal surface, often associated with immature teratoma. It is a rare condition and the pathogenesis is not fully understood. In addition, the indistinguishable radiological appearance of immature and mature teratomas, and limited pathology samples make an accurate diagnosis difficult in most cases. More importantly, patients are also at risk of recurrence after surgery. This report aims to describe the process of diagnosis and treatment of GP with immature teratoma.

Patient concerns:

The patient, a 38-year-old woman presented with GP complicated with immature teratoma after laparoscopic ovarian cyst excision.

Diagnoses:

On physical examination, a 15 cm-pelvic mass, with poor mobility, was palpated. And tumor marker demonstrated a moderate increase in α-fetoprotein and carbohydrate antigen 125. We suspected malignancy according to the comprehensive preoperative evaluation, the postoperative pathology revealed an immature teratoma of the left ovary and complicated with gliomatosis peritonei. Three months after the second surgery, possible recurrence of immature teratoma was considered and the patient underwent the third laparotomy. But the postoperative pathology indicated mature teratoma and mature glial components in the pelvic lesions.

Interventions and outcome:

The patient underwent 2 more surgical resections after the initial resection and 3 cycles of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin regimen chemotherapy. She was regularly followed up in the outpatient after surgery, and no recurrence has been reported in the pelvic cavity till date.

Lesson:

The case illuminated that the primary diagnosis of GP complicated with immature teratoma is critical but highly challenging for both gynecologists and pathologists and more attention should be paid to “GP complicated with immature cystic teratoma” patients to avoid inappropriate treatment.
Clinical features and management of children with dengue-associated obstructive shock syndrome: A case report
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Tat , Le Nhung Thi-Hong , Nguyen Ngoc Minh , Do Viet Chau , Trinh Tung Huu , Vo Luan Thanh
Published: October 2022

Rationale:

Dengue obstructive shock syndrome is a fatal complication commonly observed in the late critical phase of dengue infection and is associated with a high mortality rate. The main pathogenesis involves a dramatic increase in chest pressure, owing to severe plasma leakage and mechanical respiratory support, hampering the heart’s ability to pump effectively and impeding adequate blood venous return to the heart chambers. To date, there is a paucity of clinical data about Dengue obstructive shock syndrome reported.

Patient concerns:

The 2 reported patients presented with prolonged and decompensated dengue shock with critical multi-organ failures and mechanical ventilation. The patients’ hemodynamics were profoundly affected by high pressure in the thoracic and abdominal cavities resulting from Dengue-induced severe plasma leakage and mechanical ventilation.

Diagnoses:

Clinical presentations, laboratory data, mini-fluid challenge test, and point-of-care (POCUS) were used to make diagnoses and guide management.

Interventions:

Clinical monitoring, judicious fluid (colloids and blood products) administration guided by repeated POCUS to properly assess the adequacy of the intravascular volume, homeostasis adjustments by plasma exchange, and continuous renal replacement therapies.

Outcomes:

The patients had favorable outcomes.

Lessons:

Our study highlights the clinical manifestations and management of children with dengue obstructive shock syndrome and underscores the importance of monitoring hemodynamics by consecutive POCUS at the bedside in order to make a timely diagnosis and assess intravascular fluid volume inadequacy accurately as well as closely monitor the fluid management responses.
Effect of traditional Chinese medicine-based rehabilitation nursing combined with scalp acupuncture on negative emotions and quality of life of patients with stroke: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Xie Jingjun , Li Jinxia , Sun Qi , Cai Jianli
Published: October 2022

Background:

This study aimed to analyze the effect of traditional Chinese medicine-based rehabilitation nursing combined with scalp acupuncture (TCMRN + SA) on negative emotions and the quality of life of patients with stroke.

Methods:

102 patients with stroke admitted to The First People’s Hospital of Huzhou from September 2019 to December 2020 were included in this study using the convenience sampling method and split into an observation group and a control group at random (n = 51 in each group). Individuals in the control group received TCMRN, whereas patients in the observation group received TCMRN + SA. Furthermore, the negative emotions and quality of life of the individuals in both groups were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Pittsburgh sleep quality index scale, Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), as well as Activity of Daily Living Scale. Furthermore, the efficiency of the sleep-quality intervention between the 2 groups was compared.

Results:

After the intervention, the Pittsburgh sleep quality index scale, SDS, as well as self-rating anxiety scale scores of individuals in the observation group were considerably lower in comparison to the individuals in the control group (P < .01). Activity of daily living scale scores in the observation group also differed considerably from those in the control group (P < .01). Moreover, the sleep quality efficiency rate in the observation group (90.19% [46/51]) was substantially higher than that in the control group (70.59% [36/51]) (P < .05).

Conclusion:

TCMRN + SA can effectively improve patients’ negative emotions and quality of life and is worthy of clinical promotion and application.
Microcystic, elongated and fragmented (MELF) pattern in endometrial carcinoma: clinicopathologic analysis and prognostic implications
Authors: Song Jinghua , Li Huajun , Guo Hongyan , Cai Yuhan
Published: October 2022

To assess the clinical value of microcystic, elongated, and fragmented (MELF) pattern in Chinese patients with endometrial endometrioid carcinoma. A total of 189 patients with endometrial endometrioid carcinoma were retrospectively analyzed in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2017 to December 2019. We analyzed the association of MELF pattern with the histopathologic data and prognosis of the patients, while immunohistochemistry was performed. The frequency of MELF pattern was 17.99% (34/189). MELF pattern was associated significantly with tumor size, myometrial invasion, histological grade, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages, lymphovascular space invasion, and lymph node metastasis. According to multivariate logistic regression analysis, lymphovascular space invasion [95% confidence interval 1.021–48.485, P = .048] was a significant predictor of lymph node involvement. However, MELF pattern was not a significant predictor (95% confidence interval 0.054–2.279, P = .400). Loss of expression for mismatch repair proteins was observed in 10 MELF + cases (29.41%) and 54 MELF− cases (34.84%), respectively. All patients were followed up for 36.8 ± 8.9 months (18–54 months). Only 1 patient with MELF pattern was diagnosed with vaginal recurrence 28 months after the surgery. MELF pattern was associated with adverse histologic findings in endometrial endometrioid carcinomas. However, MELF pattern was statistically not a valuable predictor of lymph node metastasis and it needs more studies to show whether MELF pattern has an impact on the prognosis of patients with endometrial endometrioid carcinoma. MELF pattern may be important for identifying those patients who need comprehensive staging surgery.
Efficacy and safety evaluation of adjuvant auricular acupuncture for smoking cessation: A study protocol of randomized, assessor-blinded, pragmatic pilot trial
Authors: Sung Won-Suk , Choi In Suh , Moon Jeong-Hyun , Chae Soo-Yeon , Jo Min-Gi , Kim Jung-Hyun , Park Yeon-Cheol , Kim Eun-Jung , Baek Yong-Hyeon , Kim Geun-Woo , Seo Byung-Kwan
Published: October 2022

Background:

Smoking negatively impacts public health. There are several treatments to quit smoking, and nicotine replacement treatment (NRT) reportedly doubles the smoking cessation rate, with some limitations. Acupuncture is an alternative option with proven effects on smoking cessation. However, there has been no definite report that indicates the efficacy and safety of auricular acupuncture (AA) combined with NRT on smoking cessation.

Methods:

This is a randomized, assessor-blind, and pragmatic pilot study. We will recruit 40 participants who want to stop smoking and randomly allocate them into an NRT group and an NRT + AA group with a 1:1 ratio. Participants will receive NRT for 4 weeks and the NRT + AA group will receive additional AA treatment with 5 AA points (Shenmen (TF4), lung (CO14), throat (TF3), inner nose (TG4), and endocrine (CO18)) twice a week for 4 weeks. Follow-up will be conducted 1 and 3 months after intervention completion. The primary outcome will be tobacco consumption and abstinence rate determined by calculating the rate of change in cigarette use and a urine test. Secondary outcomes will be the quality of life (EuroQol-5D and visual analogue scale), nicotine dependence (Fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence), nicotine withdrawal (Minnesota nicotine withdrawal scale), physical effects, satisfaction, and safety measurement (adverse events).

Results:

We will investigate the efficacy and safety of AA combined with NRT treatment for smoking cessation.

Conclusion:

Our study will provide additional clinical evidence for AA as an adjuvant treatment for smoking cessation.

Trial registration number:

Clinical Research Information Service (registration number: KCT0007212).
Multiple beneficial outcomes of medication therapy management interventions in randomized control trials and non-randomized control trials: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deng Zhi-Jie , Ding Yu-Feng , Peng Shun-Shun , Wang Lu , Wei An-Hua
Published: October 2022

Background:

Medication therapy management (MTM) service is an effective method to reduce medication-related problems and improve patients’ multiple kinds of outcomes. However, the lack of comprehensive review for MTM services has hindered its development. As a result, we are aiming to evaluate the current benefits of MTM services with multiple outcomes.

Method:

An electronic search will be performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or non-randomized control trials (NRCTs) that reported MTM services or pharmaceutical services as interventions from PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, and ClinicalTrial. gov. The odds ratios, mean differences, and standard mean differences and their 95% confidence intervals (95% confidence intervals) will be calculated with fixed or random effect models.

Results:

This study will evaluate the multiple benefits of MTM services in clinical endpoints, quality of life, economy, and drug-related problems.

Conclusion:

The results will review eligible studies released in the past twenty years and provide more comprehensive evidence of the efficacy of MTM services.

Ethics and dissemination:

Ethical approval is not applicable for this study.
Ultrasound guided axillary vein catheterization versus subclavian vein cannulation with landmark technique: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Jinchuan , Wu Lidong , Zhang Chunquan , Wang Jiwei , Liu Yanna , Ping Luyi
Published: October 2022

Background:

Although ultrasound (US) guided axillary vein (AV) catheterization has been well described, evidence for its efficacy and safety compared with conventional infraclavicular landmark guided subclavian vein (SCV) cannulation have not been comprehensively appraised. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether US guided AV catheterization reduces catheterization failures and adverse events compared to SCV puncture based on landmark technique.

Methods:

We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, China Biology Medicine, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang, and Wei Pu databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) studies published from inception to May 2021. Two investigators reviewed and extracted data on study design, number and type of inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the Jadad scale. Outcomes included the puncture success rates and the incidence of adverse events.

Results:

Data of 1852 patients from five RCTs were included in this meta-analysis. The analysis showed that US guided AV catheterization increased the first (risk ratio (RR), confidence interval (CI)) (RR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.13~1.22, P < .01) and overall (RR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.04~1.15, P < .01) puncture success rate, and reduce the occurrence of adverse events, including the risk of arterial puncture (RR = 0.18, 95% CI = 0.06~0.55, P < .01), pneumo-and hemothorax (RR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.02~0.64, P = .01).

Conclusion:

This meta-analysis indicates that US guided AV catheterization reduces catheterization failures and mechanical complications compared with conventional landmark guided SCV puncture.
Myeloid sarcoma arising at the uterine cervix in a patient with intestinal Behçet’s disease and concurrent myelodysplastic syndrome: A case report
Authors: Choi Hwa Yeon , Pak Min Gyoung , Park Jung-Woo
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is an extramedullary tumor that consists of myeloblasts and rarely involves the female reproductive organs. Intestinal Behçet’s disease (BD) is a chronic, inflammatory illness that is often associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). When MDS is diagnosed, some patients with intestinal BD experience synchronous gastrointestinal flares.

Case presentation:

We report the case of a 49-year-old woman who presented with vaginal bleeding and an incidentally identified MS in the uterine cervix. Subsequent bone marrow biopsy showed simultaneous MDS without chromosomal abnormalities. This is the first reported case of concomitant MS, myelodysplastic disease, and intestinal BD.

Conclusions:

The accurate diagnosis of MSs that develop at non-predominant sites is crucial for a positive patient prognosis. MDS should be suspected in patients with a history of intestinal BD diagnosed with MS.