bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
CHORIORETINAL FOLDS IN PATIENTS WITH CENTRAL SEROUS CHORIORETINOPATHY
Authors: Cohen Salomon Y. , Ducos de Lahitte Ghislaine , Gaudric Alain , Mrejen Sarah 
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose:
To the best of our knowledge, there is no study of patients with central serous chorioretinopathy associated with chorioretinal folds, since a short mention in Gass' stereoscopic atlas. We report here six cases with this association.

Methods:
Six patients with both conditions were examined in our institution and underwent fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography.

Results:
Patients were 3 men and 3 women, aged 44 years to 82 years. All patients were hyperopic and two received corticosteroids. Fluorescein angiography showed pigmentary changes, diffuse leakage areas typical of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy, and chorioretinal folds mainly located in the upper temporal part of the fundus. Enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography was performed in 5 cases and revealed a thick choroid in all cases (mean subfoveal choroidal thickness: 381 µm, range: 280–510 µm).

Conclusion:
Although possibly coincidental, the presence of chorioretinal folds in hyperopic central serous chorioretinopathy eyes could be due to the excessive thickness of the choroid in eyes with hyperopia related to short axial length.
LONG-TERM VISUAL ACUITY PRESERVATION IN SORSBY FUNDUS DYSTROPHY WITH CORTICOSTEROID TREATMENT
Authors: Spaide Richard F. 
Published: November 2019

Purpose:
To describe the long-term findings of a patient with Sorsby fundus dystrophy treated with corticosteroids and propose a mechanism by which the results were obtained.

Methods:
Comprehensive ophthalmologic examination with multimodal imaging to include optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography was used to evaluate a patient with Sorsby fundus dystrophy treated with intravitreal triamcinolone.

Results:
A 35-year-old woman presented in 2003 with aggressive macular neovascularization in both eyes; her visual acuity was 20/25 in the right and 20/400 in the left eye. She previously had photodynamic therapy without apparent benefit. She was then treated with photodynamic therapy and an intravitreal injection of 4 mg of triamcinolone, which caused the neovascularization to become inactive. She was eventually switched to an intravitreal injection of triamcinolone 4 mg every 3 to 4 months in the right eye. She had no further treatment in the left eye because of extensive scarring. After 15 1/2 years of treatment, her visual acuity in the right eye was 20/20. Optical coherence tomography showed a large, low-level, irregular elevation of the retinal pigment epithelium. optical coherence tomography angiography revealed widespread macular neovascularization, and the choriocapillaris showed extensive loss. The patient had a TIMP-3 mutation, c.610A>T (p.Ser204Cys).

Conclusion:
TIMP3 has numerous effects including controlling vascular endothelial growth factor signaling and tumor necrosis factor alpha production. Corticosteroids have the potential to modulate both cytokines. This is the longest reported treatment follow-up of Sorsby fundus dystrophy with macular neovascularization, and the patient retained excellent visual acuity.
An Unusual Cause of Recurrent Pleural Effusion
Authors: He Kevin , Priyank Kumar , Weber Devin 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is a yeast that can cause severe infection in the immunocompromised. It is commonly associated with meningitis in patients with underlying HIV infection; however, infections can occur in other immunosuppressed hosts as well as the immunocompetent. Pulmonary disease is well described, but recurrent pleural effusion and empyema are rare. We describe a case in a non–HIV-infected, nontransplant cirrhotic patient presenting with recurrent pleural effusions and cryptococcal empyema.
The patient is a 66-year-old man with cirrhosis, diabetes, and kidney disease who presented with 3 months of dyspnea complicated by recurrent pleural effusion and low protein ascites after treatment of hepatitis C virus. Routine cultures from multiple thoracenteses were unrevealing. Fungal culture ultimately grew C. neoformans/gattii. His serum cryptococcal antigen titer was 1:40, and chest imaging revealed several pulmonary nodules. He was admitted for evaluation of disseminated disease and central nervous system involvement, which was unremarkable. He was started on oral fluconazole 200 mg daily dosed for his renal function and was doing well in outpatient follow-up.
Patients with cirrhosis tend to have a higher incidence of cryptococcal disease and are more likely to have disseminated infection with higher mortality. It is possible that deficiencies in complement and cytokine levels as well as leukocyte function may contribute to this increased risk. Effusions are an uncommon manifestation of pulmonary cryptococcosis and, as with the case in our patient, may resemble hepatic hydrothorax, leading to a delay in antifungal therapy.
In conclusion, patients with liver disease have an increased risk of cryptococcosis. A high index of suspicion must be maintained for infection and should be considered in patients with recurrent effusions.
Ethnic disparities in pain processing among healthy adults: μ-opioid receptor binding potential as a putative mechanism
Authors: Letzen Janelle E. , Mun Chung Jung , Kuwabara Hiroto , Burton Emily F. , Boring Brandon L. , Walls Taylor , Speed Traci J. , Wong Dean F. , Campbell Claudia M. 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Although ethnic differences in pain perception are well documented, the underlying mechanism for these outcomes has not been established. µ-opioid receptor (MOR) function might contribute to this disparity, given that MORs play a key role in pain sensitivity and modulation. However, no study has characterized ethnic differences in MOR physiology. This study sought to address this knowledge gap by examining differences in µ-selective agonist binding potential (BPND; [11C]-Carfentanil) between 27 non-Hispanic black (NHB) and 27 demographically similar, non-Hispanic white participants. Participants completed questionnaires and two 90-minute high-resolution research tomograph positron emission tomography (PET) imaging sessions. During PET imaging, a capsaicin or control cream was applied to individuals' arms, and pain ratings were collected. Bonferroni-corrected PET volumes of interest analyses revealed significantly greater [11C]-Carfentanil BPND among NHB participants in bilateral ventral striatum ([left]: F1,52 = 16.38, P < 0.001; [right]: F1,52 = 21.76, P < 0.001), bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex ([left] F1,52 = 17.3, P < 0.001; [right]: F1,52 = 14.17, P < 0.001), bilateral subgenual anterior cingulate cortex ([left]: F1,52 = 10.4, P = 0.002; [right]: F1,52 = 12.91, P = 0.001), and right insula (F1,52 = 11.0, P = 0.002). However, there were no significant main effects of condition or ethnicity × condition interaction effects across models, likely attributable to individual variability in the direction of change within groups. BPND values were significantly correlated with pain ratings collected during the capsaicin condition (r range = 0.34-0.46, P range = 0.01-0.001). Results suggest that NHB individuals might have generally greater unoccupied MOR density than non-Hispanic white peers. Findings have implications for physiological differences underlying ethnicity-related pain disparities. If replicated, these results further emphasize the need for tailored treatments in historically underserved populations.
The Relationship Between Institution-Affiliated Childcare and Employee Stress
Authors: Apple Rachel , Samuels Lauren R. , McGee-Swope Kinyata , Alsup Christina , Dewey Charlene , Roumie Christianne L. 
Published: November 2019

Objective:
To evaluate the relationship between utilization of institution-affiliated childcare and employee stress among parents working at a large, academic medical center.

Methods:
Cross-sectional analysis of the relationship between institution-affiliated childcare and employee stress. Survey questions asked about personal stress related to job, relationship with spouse, parental responsibilities, childcare, finances, and personal health.

Results:
558 (68%) respondents were predominantly women (76.9%). Fifty-four percent had non-institution-affiliated childcare and 45% had institution-affiliated childcare. Use of institution-affiliated childcare was associated with less overall stress (–4.86 [95% confidence interval –8.01, –1.72], P = 0.003), and less stress related to finances, childcare, and personal health. Differences between groups related to job, relationship with spouse, or parental responsibilities were not statistically significant.

Conclusions:
This study demonstrated an association between institution-affiliated childcare and lower stress, highlighting the centrality of employer-affiliated childcare to employees’ stress.
Design and analysis of high-risk medical device clinical trials for diabetes monitoring and treatment: a review
Authors: Zhang Bo , Shankara Sravya B. , Ye Shangyuan , Zhang Hui 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Class III medical devices are those devices that support or sustain human life or prevent impairment of human health but, when used, pose high risks to the patients. There were 15 class III medical devices that were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration from September 1, 2005 to December 31, 2018 for glucose monitoring and diabetes treatment. In this article, we reviewed the study design and statistical analysis in clinical trials that were conducted to provide evidences for safety and effectiveness of these medical devices. Two exemplars of clinical trials for “Eversense continuous glucose monitoring system” and “t:slim X2 Insulin Pump with Basal-IQ Technology” are discussed in details.
Total parathyroidectomy plus multi-point subcutaneous transplantation in the forearm may be a reliable surgical approach for patients with end-stage renal disease
Authors: Lin Nan , Fang Yong Chao , Song Jun Chuan , Wang Yu 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Rationale:
We studied the feasibility of total arathyroidectomy(tPTX)+multi-point transplantation in the forearm for treatment of secondary hyperparathyroidism. Considering the controversial nature of the appropriate timing for and location of this type of surgery, relevant research is relatively rare. Our experience may be a relatively successful one.

Patient concerns:
Our patient was a 28-year-old woman with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), who was on dialysis for 7 years, and a 2-year history of progressively aggravated bone pain. She also had hypercalcemia and hyperphosphatemia.

Diagnoses:
Given the patient's history of long-term dialysis, bone pain, high levels of intact parathyroid hormone(i-PTH) and hypercalcemia, we performed ultrasonography which showed solid nodules in the bilateral parathyroid glands. She was accordingly diagnosed with SHPT.

Interventions:
The patient underwent tPTX+multi-point subcutaneous transplantation in the forearm.

Outcomes:
Her i-PTH level dropped to < 300 pg/mL, and the symptoms of bone pain markedly reduced after surgery.

Lessons:
Total parathyroidectomy+multi-point subcutaneous transplantation in the forearm may be a reliable surgical approach for patients with ESRD.
Venous thoracic outlet syndrome secondary to arterial stent implantation
Authors: Liu Yang , Wu Zhoupeng , Huang Bin , Yang Yi , Zhao Jichun , Ma Yukui 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Rationale:
Venous thoracic outlet syndrome (VTOS) secondary to subclavian arterial stent implantation is extremely rare. Here, we firstly report this disease and the endovascular intervention using covered-stents.

Patient concerns:
An 80-year-old man who had received an acceptable stent implantation for the treatment of a right subclavian arteriovenous malformation (AVM), presented with a gradually increasing swelling and pain in his right upper extremity.

Diagnosis:
The patient was diagnosed with right VTOS and recurrent subclavian AVM following ultrasonography and computed tomographic angiography.

Interventions:
We positioned a covered-stent in the subclavian artery to block the feeding arteries and successfully embolized the remaining branches with coils. Next, we performed successful dilation 3 times, followed by the positioning of another covered-stent in the right subclavian vein.

Outcomes:
The patient was free of all symptoms and the imaging procedures confirmed an acceptable thrombosis of the AVM with patent stents in the right subclavian artery and vein during the 6-month follow-up.

Lessons:
Venous stent implantation is an alternative to treat VTOS caused by subclavian arterial stents and it is essential to pay more attention to the incidence of VTOS following arterial stent implantation in the subclavian artery.
Perforation of inferior vena cava and duodenum by strut of inferior vena cava filter
Authors: Park Hyun Oh , Choi Jun Young , Jang In Seok , Kim Jong Duk , Kim Jong Woo , Byun Joung Hun , Kim Sung Hwan , Yang Jun Ho , Moon Seong Ho , Kim Ki Nyun , Kang Dong Hun , Jung Jae Jun , Choi See Min , Kim Ji Yoon , Lee Chung Eun 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Introduction:
An Inferior vena cava (IVC) filter is an intravascular filter that is implanted into the IVC to prevent pulmonary embolism in medical, surgical, and trauma patients. The insertion of an IVC filter is a relatively safe procedure, but rarely may be associated with symptomatic perforation of the IVC wall, particularly in the long term.

Patient concerns and diagnosis:
A 74-year-old-woman with a medical history of IVC filter insertion visited the emergency department complaining of abdominal pain. A computed tomography scan showed perforation of the IVC wall and penetration into the duodenum by one of the filter's struts.

Interventions:
We performed a laparotomy to remove the IVC filter.

Outcomes:
Postoperatively, the patient was admitted to the general ward. On hospital day 12, she was discharged without any complications. We followed her up and computed tomography did not show any abnormal findings six months after discharge.

Lessons:
There is currently no evidence testifying to the benefits of IVC filter removal. Detailed, evidence-based guidelines on the indications, timing and procedure for IVC filter removal are needed. Documenting cases of long-term complications of IVC filter s such as in this patient serve to accelerate the publication of updated guidelines and are aimed at improving outcomes of similar cases in the future.
Traditional Chinese herb for low endometrial receptivity and its effect on pregnancy
Authors: Jiang Mei , Huang Ling , Gu Xiaohong , Liu Tiegang , Kang Jia , Wang Ting 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background:
Low endometrial receptivity is associated with infertility in women through multiple and complex mechanisms. Existing treatments are not always effective. Symptomatic drugs such as estradiol valerate and/or aspirin do not completely solve the problem. Traditional Chinese herbs have been widely used in infertility and uterine disease including low endometrial receptivity. However, their effectiveness and safety are still obscure and deserve further investigation.

Objective:
To assess the effect and safety of traditional Chinese herbs in treating low endometrial receptivity.

Methods:
We will summarize and meta-analyze randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of traditional Chinese herbs for the treatment of low endometrial receptivity. RCTs comparing traditional Chinese herbs with blank control, placebo, or conventional therapies will be included. RCTs comparing traditional Chinese herbs plus conventional therapies with conventional therapies alone will also be included. The following electronic databases will be searched: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, CNKI, CBM, VIP, and WANFANG DATA. The methodological quality of RCTs will be assessed using the Cochrane risk assessment tool. All trials included will be analyzed according to the criteria of the Cochrane Handbook. Review Manager 5.3, R-3.5.1 software will be used for publication bias analysis. GRADE pro GDT web solution will be used for evidence evaluation.

Results:
This review will evaluate the effects of traditional Chinese herbs on estradiol, progesterone, thickness, volume, and perfusion index(PI) of the endometrium, pregnancy rate, and symptoms.

Conclusions:
This review will provide clear evidence to assess the effectiveness and safety of traditional Chinese herbs for low endometrial receptivity.

OSF registration number:
DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/M85VT.
Case report: neonatal giant forehead hemangiopericytoma with a 5-year follow-up
Authors: Peng AiJun , Zhang LiBing , Zhao Hai , Zhou LiangXue 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Rationale:
Hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is a rare pediatric neoplasm with a high risk of bleeding, aggressive growth and high early relapse rates. Surgical excision remains the mainstream treatment, while the functions of chemotherapy and radiotherapy remain controversial. In particular, an infantile giant extracranial HPC located in the forehead has never been reported.

Patient concerns:
A 3-day-old girl was delivered normally with a giant tumor localized mainly in the right frontal region. The surface of the mass was filled with vascularity.

Diagnosis:
According to the results of imaging and pathological examinations, the diagnosis was HPC grade II.

Interventions:
Gross total resection of the tumor and the invading partial frontal bone followed by skin scalp reconstruction was carried out without any blood transfusion.

Outcomes:
No recurrence was identified during 5 years of follow-up. And better outcomes can be achieved without adjuvant therapy.

Lessons:
Multimodality imaging and a collaborative multidisciplinary approach are indispensable for the successful surgical management of infantile HPC, especially for giant tumors and their potential risk of life-threatening bleeding. Gross total resection is the optimal option for infantile HPC, and even without adjuvant therapy, it achieves better outcomes.
Clinical efficacy of femtosecond laser for myopia
Authors: Wang Xiao-fang , Zhang Jun-xia 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background:
Femtosecond laser (FL) is an effective method to treat patients with myopia, but its relative efficacy and safety is still unclear. Thus, this study will be conducted to assess the efficacy and safety of FL for myopia systematically.

Methods:
This study will systematically retrieve the following electronic databases up to the present: Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, Wanfang, VIP, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. All electronic databases will be searched without any limitations of language and publication status. RevMan 5.3 software will be utilized for statistical analysis.

Results:
We will summarize the targeted results evaluating the efficacy and safety of FL for patients with myopia.

Conclusions:
This study will provide a comprehensive evidence summary on FL for patients with myopia.
PROSPERO registration number: PROSPERO CRD42019148659.
Modified two-flaps palatoplasty with lateral mucus relaxing incision in cleft repair
Authors: Gu Meizhen , Huang Xiuchang , Xu Hongming , Chen Fang , Jiang Yugang , Li Xiaoyan 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Study Design:
clinical results of A STROBE-compliant retrospective study

Objective:
To achieving adequate pharyngeal closure and improve the pharyngeal function by a modified two-flap palatoplasty.

Summary of Background:
Excessive tension in soft palate is the main factor causing the dysphonia after cleft palate. The tension-free suture of the soft palate is the key to achieving adequate pharyngeal closure. In this paper, a modified two-flap palatoplasty improved the pharyngeal function

Methods:
From August 2016 to December 2017, 20 patients with cleft palate were treated with a modified two-flap palatoplasty of the posterolateral symmetrical mucosal relaxation incision. The mucosal relaxation incision was performed on both posterolateral sides of the soft palate.

Results:
All cases had good healing of mucosal flap and the palate. All patients underwent endoscopic examination at 6 months after operation. The postoperative results were satisfactory, with no complications. Twelve patients had bilateral exudative otitis media before operation, 4 patients returned to normal postoperatively, and 8 patients underwent bilateral tympanic membrane catheterization; 2 patients had abnormal function of bilateral eustachian tube before operation and returned to normal postoperatively; 3 patients had unilateral exudative otitis media before operation, and all of them returned to normal; the acoustic impedance test was normal in 3 children before operation. Most children begin to learn to speak, parents are satisfied with their pronunciation, and 3 children are in speech rehabilitation due to unclear pronunciation.

Conclusions:
We propose a technique to improve the function of the velopharyngeal closure which effectively reduces the incidence of pharyngeal insufficiency and occurrence of operative correction of pharyngeal closure dysfunction. The modifed two-flap palatoplasty with posterior lateral symmetric mucosal relaxation incision is beneficial for better velopharyngeal closure.
Predictor of sleep difficulty among community dwelling older populations in 2 African settings
Authors: Wang Chao , Liu Jiaxuan , Li Zhifei , Ji Lu , Wang Ruoxi , Song Hongxun , Mao Yiqing , Bishwajit Ghose , Zhang Baoming , Tang Shangfeng 
Published: November 2019

AbstractSleep deprivation is a common phenomenon among older population and is commonly linked to behavioral, physiological, and psychosocial factors. Not much is known about sleep deprivation among older population in Africa. Therefore, in this study we aimed to investigate the basic sociodemographic and psychosocial predictors of self-reported sleep deprivation among older population.In this study we analyzed cross-sectional data on 1495 community dwelling men and women aged 50 years and above. Data were collected from the SAGE Well-Being of Older People Study conducted in South Africa and Uganda. Outcome variable was self-reported sleep difficulty last 30 days. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify the variables significantly associated with sleep difficulty.The prevalence of mild-moderate sleep difficulty was 32.6% (27.9, 37.6) and severe/extreme 23.0% (20.3, 26.0) respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed that sleep difficulty was associated with several behavioral, environment, and illness conditions. In South Africa, those who reported dissatisfaction with living condition had 1.592 [1.087, 2.787] times higher odds of reporting mild/moderate sleep difficulty. Poor subjective quality of life (QoL) was associated with higher odds of severe/extreme sleep difficulties (odds ratios [OR] = 4.590, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.641, 7.977 for South Africa, and OR = 4.461, 95% CI = 2.048 and 9.716 for Uganda). In Uganda, perceived depression was associated with higher odds of severe/extreme (OR = 2.452, 95% CI = 1.073, 5.602) sleep difficulties among men, and both mild/moderate (OR = 1.717; 95% CI = 1.011, 2.914) and severe/extreme sleep difficulties among women (OR = 2.504, 95% CI = 1.408, 4.453).More than half of the participants had sleep difficulty of certain degrees, emphasising an urgent need for intervention for sleep deprivation in the population. Interventions targeting to promote subjective health, quality of life, and living environment may prove beneficial for improving sleep health in this regard.