bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Circulating MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers in the Diagnosis of Neurosyphilis: A Case Control Study
Authors: Wu Kai-Qi , Zhang Su-Fang , Bao Chao-Hui , Zou Xin , Gu Xin , Wang Cui-Ni , Gong Wei-Ming , Shi Mei , Lou Yong-Liang , Huang Jian , Zhou Ping-Yu 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Objective:
Laboratory diagnosis of neurosyphilis (NS) remains a great challenge. This study was the aimed to identify miRNA candidates as biomarkers to distinguish between NS, non-neurosyphilis, and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods:
We analyzed miRNA expression profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from six patients with NS, eight patients with secondary syphilis (SS), and five HCs using microarray technology. The differentially expressed miRNAs were validated in 33 NS samples, 31 SS samples, and 30 HC samples using TaqMan miRNA real-time qPCR (qRT-PCR).

Results:
Thirty-nine miRNAs were differentially expressed in SS and NS patients compared with HCs. Thirteen miRNAs were randomly selected to validate their expression levels in the same samples used in microarray assay by qRT-PCR. All miRNAs were upregulated in SS and NS samples compared with HC. qRT-PCR analysis of the expression of the 13 miRNAs in a second cohort (76 samples) showed that the average expression levels of nine miRNAs were higher in SS than in NS (SS: 0.185, NS: 0.136, P=3.8E-10), while the expressions of the other four miRNAs were lower in SS than in NS (SS: 0.000757, NS: 0.000873, P=0.022). ROC curve analysis of the 13 miRNAs showed the area under the curve value to be 1.00 for distinguishing SS patients from HCs, 1.00 for distinguishing NS patients from HCs, 1.00 for distinguishing SS and NS patients from HCs, and 0.968 for distinguishing NS from SS patients.

Conclusion:
The present study is the first one that identified differentially expressed miRNAs in PBMCs from patients with NS. Our results suggest that the 13 candidate miRNAs in PBMCs may be novel noninvasive biomarkers for NS diagnosis.
A Case Report of Pemphigoid Nodularis as Masquerader of Neurotic Excoriations
Authors: Tan Chee Hian , Tey Hong Liang 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Introduction:
Pemphigoid nodularis is a rare clinical variant of bullous pemphigoid characterized by both prurigo nodularis-like lesions and pemphigoid-like blisters.
Herein, we report a case of pemphigoid nodularis in a cognitively-impaired patient who has been managed as extensive prurigo nodularis with neurotic exocriations for many years.

Case presentation:
A 72-year-old Chinese man has been on follow-up at an outpatient Dermatology unit for extensive prurigo nodularis for past 4 to 5 years until an inpatient stay when he was admitted for labile mood and erratic behavior due to the intense pruritus and skin lesions. During the admission, the inpatient team noticed tense hemorrhagic blisters on his right thigh for which histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid. He was treated with oral prednisolone, doxycycline, and nicotinamide, which led to clinical improvement.

Discussion:
Pemphigoid nodularis can be easily misdiagnosed as prurigo nodularis. We discuss clinical clues that can raise the suspicion of an underlying immunobullous disorder, including erythematous nodules with a much larger surface area affected by central erosions and ulceration. Pruritus associated with larger areas of erosions and ulceration is clues that lesions can be more than mere excoriations.

Conclusion:
It is important for clinicians to be aware of the presentation of prurigo nodularis in association with bullous pemphigoid such that effective treatment can be promptly instituted. This is especially illustrated in this case, as the treatment of bullous pemphigoid not only improved his skin condition but it also improved his psychological health and behavior with the resolution of itch.
Does Sex–Obesity Intersectionality Play a Role in Labor Inactivity? Results From the Brazilian National Health Survey
Authors: Pilecco Flávia Bulegon , Ferreira Marcelo José Monteiro , Antigo Mariangela Furlan , Araújo Larissa Fortunato 
Published: November 2020

Objective:
To investigate the association between sex–obesity intersection and labor inactivity and whether education modifies this relationship in a national health survey.

Methods:
Cross-sectional study using the database of 43,456 participants from the Brazilian National Health Survey. Logistic Regression analyses were performed.

Results:
To be women with or without obesity was associated with higher frequency of labor inactivity in comparison to non-obese men. Among men, only those with central obesity had a higher rate of inactivity than non-obese men, especially those with incomplete elementary school.

Conclusions:
The double burden of judgment (sexism and fatphobia) suffered by obese women can lead to socioeconomic inequalities which may strength poorness and/or exclusion. Thus, there are urgent measures for empowerment and equity in the labor market.
An evaluation of treatments and survival rates for pancreatic adenocarcinoma through survival analysis with inverse probability of treatment weighting: a population-based study
Authors: Wang Suzhen , Wang Chen , Shi Fuyan , Tao Enxue , Zhu Gaopei , Li Juan , Feng Jianing , Wang Xiaoxuan , Guo Jing , Zheng Qingfeng , Zhang Bo 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

Objective:
This study conducted inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) survival analysis to examine survival in pancreatic adenocarcinoma patients.

Methods:
In this population-based study, data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program of the United States were analyzed to identify patients diagnosed with adenocarcinoma of the pancreas 2004 to 2014. Differences in survival rates were examined among patients who underwent pancreatectomy alone, radiotherapy alone, and those who had pancreatectomy plus adjuvant radiotherapy. Kaplan–Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazards models with the IPTW were performed to determine the effect of different treatments on overall and cancer-specific survival. This study was approved by the Ethics Review Board of Weifang Medical University.

Results:
A total of 8191 patients were included, with 3409 taking pancreatectomy only, 2865 taking radiotherapy only, and 1917 taking pancreatectomy plus adjuvant radiotherapy. Patients who received surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy had statistically a higher survival rate than those who received the other 2 treatments. Survival analysis with the IPTW for the 3 different groups showed that the difference in median overall survival time among these patient groups was significant.

Conclusion:
Using IPTW survival analysis, the present study shows that surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy is significantly associated with improved overall and cancer-specific survival among patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
Outcome of Cochlear Implantation in NLRP3-related Autoinflammatory Inner Ear Disorders
Authors: Kim Bong Jik , Kim Young Ho , Han Jin Hee , Lee Sang-Yeon , Carandang Marge , Lee Dong-Han , Lee Soyoung , Choi Byung Yoon 
Published: November 2020

Objective:
Hearing loss is a highly penetrant phenotype in NLRP3 (Nod-Like-Receptor-Pyrin containing 3) gene-related autoinflammatory disorders. A recent study revealed potential medical treatment of hearing loss with anakinra (anti-interleukin 1 receptor antagonist) in selected cases. However, for severely aggravated hearing loss not responsive to anakinra, cochlear implantation (CI) would be the last resort for hearing rehabilitation. Outcome of CI is not clearly elucidated yet in this emerging type of hearing loss related to NLRP3-related autoinflammatory disorders, which has a systemic nature and ubiquitous distribution of resident macrophages involving the spiral ganglion neuron and the cochlear nerve. Here, we report the successful outcome of CI in NLRP3-related autoinflammatory disorder.

Patients:
Three subjects representing each type of NLRP3-related autoinflammatory disorder: chronic infantile, neurological, cutaneous, and articular syndrome; Muckle-Wells syndrome; and DFNA34, who underwent CI for auditory rehabilitation, were recruited.

Interventions:
Phenotypes as well as genotypes were reviewed in the subjects.

Main Outcome Measures:
Audiologic performances before/after CI over time were evaluated.

Results:
All three subjects showed excellent audiological outcomes with rapid improvement of speech perception test result reaching plateau at 3 months after CI, although distribution of the disease predicted poor outcome based on theoretical analysis.

Conclusions:
This is the first report to present outcome of CI among subjects with a confirmed NLRP3 genetic etiology and resultant systemic inflammation, and suggests that CI is a viable treatment option in this disease entity.
Risky Business: A Mediated Model of Antecedents and Consequences of Presenteeism in Nursing
Authors: Rainbow Jessica G. , Gilbreath Brad , Steege Linsey M. 
Published: November 2020

Background
Nurses are a high-risk group for presenteeism: When one is present at work but not fully engaged. Presenteeism can occur because of multiple work, personal, and event factors and is linked to negative nurse, patient, and organizational outcomes. A model that accounts for the multiple antecedents that lead to presenteeism, as well as its consequences, is needed.

Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate our proposed presenteeism in nursing model among registered nurses in the United States by examining the fit of the data with the model.

Methods
Four hundred forty-seven registered nurses who provide direct patient care completed a cross-sectional survey on presenteeism, its antecedents and consequences, and demographics. Structural equation modeling was used to test relationships in the proposed model and overall model fit.

Results
The presenteeism in nursing model holistically accounted for significant presenteeism antecedents and consequences. There were significant relationships between work environment, perceived stress and work–life balance, and presenteeism. There were also significant relationships between presenteeism and missed care, and burnout.

Discussion
These relationships align with prior research and identify antecedents and consequences of presenteeism. This model can be used by practitioners and researchers to develop interventions addressing presenteeism to improve health system, nurse, and patient outcomes.
Psychological reactions and interventions to help Cancer patients cope during the COVID-19 pandemic in China
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Liu Feng , Tong Fei , Peng Wanglian , Wen Minni , Zou Ran , Zhang Lemeng , Jiang Ling , Yang Hui , Yi Lili , Huang Xufen 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
During COVID-19 pandemic, how can cancer patients adjust their psychological status? In this article, some questions and suggestions are given to share. I listed some of negative emotions could happen on cancer patients and showed their harm and gave suggestions accordingly, especially in how to keep cancer patients in a healthy attitude during the difficult time.
Computed Tomography Angiography of the Aorta—Optimization of Automatic Tube Voltage Selection Settings to Reduce Radiation Dose or Contrast Medium in a Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Euler André , Taslimi Tilo , Eberhard Matthias , Kobe Adrian , Reeve Kelly , Zimmermann Alexander , Krauss Andreas , Gutjahr Ralf , Schmidt Bernhard , Alkadhi Hatem 
Published: November 2020

Objectives
The aim of this study was to compare the image quality of low-kV protocols with optimized automatic tube voltage selection (ATVS) settings to reduce either radiation dose or contrast medium (CM) with that of a reference protocol for computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the thoracoabdominal aorta.

Materials and Methods
In this institutional review board–approved, single-center, prospective randomized controlled trial, 126 patients receiving CTA of the aorta were allocated to one of three computed tomography protocols: (A) reference protocol at 120 kVp and standard weight-adapted CM dose; (B) protocol at 90 kVp, reduced radiation and standard CM dose; and (C) protocol at 90 kVp, standard radiation and reduced CM dose. All three protocols were performed on a third-generation dual-source computed tomography scanner using the semimode of the ATVS system. The image-task-dependent optimization settings of the ATVS (slider level) were adjusted to level 11 (high-contrast task) for protocols A and B and level 3 (low-contrast task) for protocol C. Radiation dose parameters were assessed. The contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs) of protocols B and C were tested for noninferiority compared with A. Subjective image quality was assessed using a 5-point Likert scale.

Results
Size-specific dose estimate was 34.3% lower for protocol B compared with A (P < 0.0001). Contrast medium was 20.2% lower for protocol C compared with A (P < 0.0001). Mean CNR in B and C was noninferior to protocol A (CNR of 30.2 ± 7, 33.4 ± 6.7, and 30.5 ± 8.9 for protocols A, B, and C, respectively). There was no significant difference in overall subjective image quality among protocols (4.09 ± 0.21, 4.03 ± 0.19, and 4.08 ± 0.17 for protocols A, B, and C, respectively; P = 0.4).

Conclusions
The slider settings of an ATVS system can be adjusted to optimize either radiation dose or CM at noninferior image quality in low-kV CTA of the aorta. This optimization could be used to extend future ATVS algorithms to take clinical risk factors like kidney function of individual patients into account.
Incidental Detection of Urothelial Carcinoma on 18F-Fluciclovine PET/CT
Authors: Surasi Devaki Shilpa Sudha , Lu Yang , Corn Paul , Pettaway Curtis , Bathala Tharakeswara 
Published: November 2020

Abstract

18F-Fluciclovine PET/CT has become a common diagnostic imaging study used in the evaluation of biochemical recurrence in prostate cancer since its approval in 2016. We present a case report of an 82-year-old man with history of both prostate and bladder cancer who presented for a fluciclovine study due to rising PSA levels. There was incidental detection of focal penile activity, and a subsequent urethral biopsy performed showed urothelial carcinoma, which was also seen on a subsequent MRI study.
Internal Jugular Vein and Cerebral Venous Sinus Infective Thrombophlebitis Detected With 99mTc-HMPAO White Blood Cell Scintigraphy
Authors: Sistani Golmehr , Zukotynski Katherine A. , Akincioglu Cigdem , Romsa Jonathan G. , Warrington James C. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
A 35-year-old man with a history of renal transplant, congenital cystinosis, and diabetes was admitted to the hospital with fever, bilateral parotid gland swelling, and acute renal failure. He had 99mTc-HMPAO-WBC (99mTc-hexamethylpropyleneamineoxime white blood cell) imaging for the evaluation of possible parotitis. There was intense radiopharmaceutical uptake along the right internal jugular vein extending to the right sigmoid and transverse and superior sagittal sinuses, suggestive of infective thrombophlebitis or Lemierre syndrome. This study illustrates the value of 99mTc-HMPAO-WBC imaging as a tool for evaluating thrombophlebitis, particularly in patients with renal failure in whom contrast-enhanced CT may not be possible.
Advantage of 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT on Postradiotherapy Response Assessment of Juvenile Nasal Angiofibroma
Authors: Sakthivel Pirabu , Thakar Alok , Thankarajan Arunraj Sreedharan , Bhalla Ashu Seith , Kumar Rakesh 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is universally expressed in the endothelial cells of tumor-associated neovasculature of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma. Functional 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT also enables easier differentiation of the residual tumor from postoperative changes. An 18-year-old man with the residual intracranial disease received radiotherapy after surgery. In PSMA PET/CT imaging, uptake was noted initially only in the residual disease, and the same was absent after successful response to radiotherapy, unlike contrast MRI, which showed persistent enhancement. Functional 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT may be a very useful tool clinically for identifying early responses to radiotherapy compared with conventional structural imaging.
Angiosarcoma of the Abdominal Aorta After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Walker Kadeem , Khan Neiladri , Scherer Philip 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
Primary angiosarcomas of the aorta are rare, highly aggressive malignant tumors for which there have been limited documented cases in the medical literature. Diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptomatology and imitation of common aortic pathologies. A subset of these primary aortic angiosarcoma cases is seen in association with endovascular aneurysm repair, or EVAR; however, the connection between the 2 entities is not completely understood. Here, we present 18F-FDG PET/CT imaging findings of an angiosarcoma of the aorta in a 69-year-old man status post EVAR.
Optic Canal Analysis in Syndromic Craniosynostosis: Volumetric and Surface Area Validation Study Using Different Measurement Modalities
Authors: Hariri Firdaus , Zainudin Nur Afiqah Aina , Anuar Ahmad Muizz Shariful , Ibrahim Norliza , Abdullah Norli Anida , Aziz Izhar Abdul , Ramli Norlisah , Rahman Zainal Ariff Abdul 
Published: November 2020

Background:
In syndromic craniosynostosis (SC), unlike persistent corneal irritation due to severe exophthalmos and increased intracranial pressure, optic canal (OC) stenosis has been scarcely reported to cause visual impairment. This study aimed to validate the OC volumetric and surface area measurement among SC patients.

Methods:
Sixteen computed tomography scan of SC patients (8 months–6 years old) were imported to Materialise Interactive Medical Image Control System (MIMICS) and Materialise 3-matics software. Three-dimensional (3D) OC models were fabricated, and linear measurements were obtained. Mathematical formulas were used for calculation of OC volume and surface area from the 3D model. The same measurements were obtained from the software and used as ground truth. Data normality was investigated before statistical analyses were performed. Wilcoxon test was used to validate differences of OC volume and surface area between 3D model and software.

Results:
The mean values for OC surface area for 3D model and MIMICS software were 103.19 mm2 and 31.27 mm2, respectively, whereas the mean for OC volume for 3D model and MIMICS software were 184.37 mm2 and 147.07 mm2, respectively. Significant difference was found between OC volume (P = 0.0681) and surface area (P = 0.0002) between 3D model and software.

Conclusion:
Optic canal in SC is not a perfect conical frustum thus making 3D model measurement and mathematical formula for surface area and volume estimation not ideal. Computer software remains the best modality to gauge dimensional parameter and is useful to elucidates the relationship of OC and eye function as well as aiding intervention in SC patients.
Vascularized Clavicular Bone With Supraclavicular Artery Island Flap for Oromandibular Reconstruction
Authors: Johnson Jeffrey , Naqvi Syed , Jain Kunal , Karni Ron J. , Ho Tang 
Published: November 2020

Objective:
To explore the feasibility of an original surgical technique for head and neck oncologic reconstruction utilizing a pedicled osteocutaneous supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) in a cadaver model.

Method:
Cadaver dissection, Review of literature

Description:
Two fresh frozen cadavers, 1 male and 1 female, were used for the dissection. Prior to dissection, measurements were taken on length of clavicle and distance between clavicular articulations and mandibular landmarks with the head in a neutral position. The SCAIF flap was raised in a subfascial plane and a 4.0 cm partial thickness clavicular bone graft was harvested attached to the flap. The pedicle was identified and the length of the supraclavicular artery was noted. The skin paddle was tunneled into the floor of mouth and the bone was placed into a pre-cut 4.0 cm mandibular body defect and fixated with a 1.7 mm Stryker mandibular reconstruction plate.

Results:
The male cadaver clavicle measured 16.4 cm in length. The distance from the sternoclavicular joint (SC) to the angle and symphysis of the mandible was 15.3 cm and 15.0 cm, respectively. In this cadaver, the bony graft and the vascular pedicle was not of sufficient length to reach the mandibular defect after tracing the vascular pedicle to the thyrocervical trunk (TCT), which was 13.3 cm from the mandibular angle (MA). The female cadaver had an average clavicular length of 15.0 cm, SC to angle 10.5 cm and SC to symphysis 8.1 cm. The bony graft and the vascular pedicled effortlessly reached without tension, with TCT only 7.8 cm from the MA and allowed sufficient bone graft mobility for plating.

Conclusion:
In this cadaveric model, a novel approach utilizing an osteocutaneous SCAIF was shown as a feasible reconstruction option for oromandibular defects in selected patients. This technique is limited by the anatomical relationship between the neck and vascular pedicle length. Viability could be determined by pre-operative measurements, where the clavicular length should be significantly greater than the distance from SC to MA.
Crouzon Syndrome and Acanthosis Nigricans With Fibrous Dysplasia of the Maxilla: An Unreported Suggested Triad
Authors: Olshinka Asaf , Tal David , Gillman Leon , Ad-El Dean , Kalish Eyal , Kropach Nesia , Yaacobi Dafna Shilo , Kornreich Liora , Staffenberg David A. 
Published: November 2020

Abstract
The aim of this report is to describe the combination of Crouzon syndrome and acanthosis nigricans with fibrous dysplasia of the maxilla. The diagnosis of fibrous dysplasia was confirmed clinically and pathologically during Le Fort III osteotomy and midface advancement with distraction osteogenesis. Crouzon syndrome with acanthosis nigricans is a known syndrome with an incidence of 1:1,000,000. This is the first report in the literature of Crouzon syndrome and acanthosis nigricans combined with fibrous dysplasia. As all 3 pathologies are related to fibroblasts, they may be different manifestations of malfunction of a single molecular pathway. The detection of fibrous dysplasia in a patient with Crouzon syndrome and acanthosis nigricans is important because it may complicate midface osteotomies and fixation of the hardware on the bones during craniofacial surgery.