bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical Efficiency and Safety of Radiofrequency Ablation for Treating Incompetent Great Saphenous Veins in Aged Patients
Authors: Chen Yang , Zhou Ling , Gu Yuexia , Wang Xinyu , Sun Jian 
Published: September 2024

Introduction Few studies have focused on the safety and efficacy of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in treating incompetent great saphenous vein (GSV) in aged population. This study was designed to investigate the clinical efficacy of RFA in treating incompetent GSV in the aged patients. Methods In this retrospective study, we included 138 consecutive patients (involving 194 limbs) with a mean age of 63.0 years who underwent RFA and microphlebectomy or sclerotherapy due to symptomatic incompetent GSV with saphenofemoral junction reflux. Based on their ages, patients were classified into young group and aged group. Then we compared the preoperative and postoperative Clinical, Etiology, Anatomic, Pathophysiology (CEAP) classification, venous clinical severity score (VCSS) and chronic venous insufficiency questionnaire 14 (CIVIQ-14) score between the 2 groups. Results In both the young and aged groups, patients underwent RFA showed significant decrease in the CEAP and VCSS at month 1, 3 and 6 compared with immediately after RFA (month 0) (all P < .001). In addition, in both groups, significant increase was seen in the CIVIQ-14 score at month 1, 3 and 6 compared with month 0 (all P < .001). Compared with the young group, the post-RFA CEAP, VCSS and CIVIQ-14 scores showed no statistical differences in the aged group at the designated time points, respectively (all P > .05). Conclusions RFA of GSV was effective for treating GSV in the aged population, which improved the CEAP, VCSS and CIVIQ-14.
The Effect of Weight Distribution in the Foot on Balance and Plantar Pressure in Female Adolescent Athletes
Authors: Cerezci-Duygu Senay , Sarak-Kucukosmanoglu Hazal , Aytar Aydan 
Published: September 2024

Background: It is widely reported that the weight distribution in each foot is approximately 60% in the rearfoot and 40% in the forefoot. For balance training, it is recommended to transfer some weight to the forefoot. However, it is still unclear whether fore-rear foot weightbearing ratio affects balance and plantar pressure parameters. Hypothesis: There is a relationship between the forefoot weightbearing ratio and balance and plantar pressure in female adolescent athletes. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 91 adolescent female athletes aged between 10 and 19 years were included in the study. Weightbearing ratios of the forefoot, balance, and plantar pressure were assessed using a plantar pressure platform (FootWork, AMCube IST). In the static and stabilometric evaluation, the weightbearing ratio (%), mean and maximum plantar pressure (kPa), center of pressure (CoP) total, antero-posterior and medio-lateral sway length (cm), CoP surface area (cm2), and length over area (cm-1) were recorded. In the dynamic evaluation, the maximum pressure (kPa) acting on each foot was recorded. Results: Two groups with forefoot weightbearing ratio <40% and ≥40% were compared. Maximum pressure values in static conditions, CoP anteroposterior, and total sway length were significantly different between these groups. In addition, as the amount of load transferred to the forefoot increased, CoP total and anteroposterior sway length increased postural stability. Conclusion: Although postural control mechanisms are quite complex, plantar pressure and postural control parameters can be varied by optimizing rear-to-fore foot weight transfer. Clinical Relevance: This study will contribute to the development of appropriate training and rehabilitation strategies to optimize athlete performance and reduce injury risk.
The Use of Sucroferric Oxyhydroxide Prior to Sigmoidoscopy in Patients With End-Stage Kidney Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Horwitz Jennifer , Roberts Katelyn , Canning Stephanie , Mcintosh Douglas , Zimmerman Deborah 
Published: September 2024

Rationale: Sucroferric oxyhydroxide is an iron-based phosphate-binding medication that has been approved for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with end-stage kidney disease. Given the low overall iron release from the polynuclear iron(III)-oxyhydroxide molecule, recommendations regarding its use prior to colonoscopy/sigmoidoscopy have not been developed. Presenting concerns of the patient: A 51-year-old male with a known history of end-stage renal disease treated with hemodialysis was referred to Gastroenterology for consideration of colonoscopy to rule out malignancy because of a history of rectal bleeding. This was to be completed prior to proceeding with a living-donor kidney transplant. Diagnoses: Flexible sigmoidoscopy done after non-diagnostic colonoscopy demonstrated diffuse “charcoal-like” material that prevented adequate visualization of the bowel despite standard bowel preparation. The findings were believed to be secondary to the use of sucroferric oxyhydroxide prescribed for hyperphosphatemia. Interventions: The patient was subsequently instructed to discontinue sucroferric oxyhydroxide for 2 weeks prior to his repeat sigmoidoscopy procedure. Outcomes: The patient’s repeat sigmoidoscopy after discontinuing sucroferric oxyhydroxide allowed for adequate bowel visualization that revealed only a benign lipoma. Teaching Points: This case demonstrates the potential for sucroferric oxyhydroxide use to result in poor bowel preparation and resulting inadequate visualization on lower gastrointestinal endoscopy. It serves to highlight the clinical implications leading to the need for repeated procedures, which contributes to resource waste and unnecessary costs to the healthcare system, as well as delays in diagnostic evaluation required for transplantation; patient frustration was evident.
Knowledge and attitude of Iranian dental practitioners toward teledentistry: A web-based descriptive survey
Authors: Saberi Zahra , Rahimi Alireza , Soheili Leila , Khodadadi Fatemeh Sadat Tabatabaei 
Published: September 2024

Background It is necessary to improve the knowledge and attitude of dental practitioners toward teledentistry for its implementation in the oral healthcare system. The objective of the current study was to investigate the knowledge and attitude of Iranian dental practitioners toward teledentistry. Methods This descriptive, cross-sectional survey was performed among 387 dental practitioners working in two big cities in Iran. An online self-structured questionnaire that included 34 questions was applied to collect information about the general profile of participants (age, sex, work experience, city of work, and dental specialty), their knowledge, and attitude about teledentistry. Results Most participants were males (57.9%) and general practitioners (79.6%). Dental practitioners expressed poor knowledge and only 23.50% of them were familiar with teledentistry. However, most of the participants, mainly in Zahedan city, expressed agreement on the potential benefits of teledentistry for patient care and access. More than 80% of dental practitioners agreed with the statement on the application of teledentistry in enhancing access to guidelines, recommendations, and preventive dentistry. However, the majority of dental practitioners believe that the diagnosis by teledentistry is not as accurate as the diagnosis in clinical practice. Conclusion Our study reveals a positive attitude toward teledentistry among Iranian dentists with a significant knowledge gap. This knowledge gap may be a barrier to teledentistry adoption. Educational programs tailored to address these knowledge gaps are necessary to pave the way for the successful integration of teledentistry into routine dental practice.
Impact of behavior and mood of people with specific needs on quality and feasibility of teledentistry: A five years retrospective study
Authors: Inquimbert Camille , Sabourin Céline , Sepashvili Nicolas , Valcarcel Jean , Bossouf Abid , Giraudeau Nicolas 
Published: September 2024

Background The e-DENT program, initiated by Montpellier University Hospital's Department of Dentistry, seeks to enhance dental care access for individuals with special needs through teledentistry. This five-year retrospective study focuses on the program's impact, particularly assessing patients’ mood and behavior during telemedicine dental examinations and the influence of these factors on diagnostic quality and feasibility. Methods This retrospective, multicentric observational study analyzed data from January 1, 2018, to April 24, 2023, involving residents of medico-social institutions who participated in the e-DENT program. The study utilized a scoring system based on the PANAS scale, which is used to brief measures of positive and negative affects. We aimed to evaluate mood and behavior. The statistical analysis was conducted using R software, incorporating mixed logistic and linear regressions to assess the impact of various factors on patient behavior, mood scores, and the quality and feasibility of diagnoses. Findings The study included 682 patients, revealing that the majority exhibited cooperative behavior during their telemedicine consultations, with a median mood score of 2.5. Analysis showed a significant improvement in mood scores from the first to subsequent consultations. The mood score positively correlated with diagnostic feasibility and negatively with visit duration. Specific factors such as type of disability, fear of dental instruments, and patient cooperation significantly influenced the quality of videos taken and the feasibility of diagnoses. Facilities catering to different disability types showed varied mood scores, suggesting tailored approaches may be necessary. Interpretation The findings underscore the efficacy of teledentistry in providing dental care to individuals with special needs, highlighting the importance of patient mood and behavior in improving diagnostic outcomes. The study suggests that teledentistry can be a well-accepted and effective mode of dental care delivery for this patient group, with implications for optimizing telemedicine practices in medico-social settings.
Effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in comparison with routine rehabilitation methods in patients with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rayegani Seyed Mansoor , Heidari Saeed , Seyed-Nezhad Maryam , Kiyani Narges , Moradi-Joo Mohammad 
Published: September 2024

Introduction Cognitive rehabilitation includes a set of programs to train the brain, which leads to the improvement of mental and neuro-psychological functions. This meta-analysis was conducted with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of cognitive rehabilitation in comparison with routine rehabilitation methods in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods The Cochrane Library, ProQuest, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to August 2022. Google Scholar was used to find relevant sources and complete the search coverage. Two authors independently selected studies based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data analysis was performed using RevMan (version 5.3). Results Out of the 578 studies found, 20 studies were finally included in this review. The results of the meta-analysis on four outcomes (Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT), Brief Visuospatial Memory Test (BVMT), MS Neuropsychological Screening Questionnaire (MSNQ), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI)) indicated that the outcome was significant in favor of the cognitive rehabilitation group. However, for five outcomes (Controlled Oral Word Association Test (COWAT), California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT), Everyday Memory Questionnaire (EMQ), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS)), the differences between the two groups were not significant. Conclusion The results of this meta-analysis showed that cognitive rehabilitation has an effect on improving the performance of patients with MS. However, further studies with more accurate methodologies are required to determine which of the outcomes cognitive rehabilitation has a greater effect on.
Laboratory-based surveillance of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease in Japan
Authors: Hamaguchi Yuko , Morimoto Kozo , Mitarai Satoshi 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundIntractable pulmonary diseases with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM-PDs) and antimicrobial resistance have become increasingly concerning worldwide. Nevertheless, a surveillance system for NTM has not been established in most countries, thus requiring repeated, intermittent and time-consuming cross-sectional nationwide surveys.MethodsTo establish a nationwide surveillance system for NTM-associated diseases, we aimed to develop a prototype computer system primarily designed to continuously estimate NTM-PD incidence using a bacteriological case-defining algorithm through an automatic process of integrating bacteriological data collected from microbiology laboratories across Japan. To validate the accuracy of our study results, we compared the distribution of pulmonary tuberculosis cases between our laboratory data and the national surveillance data, which is representative of the Japanese population.ResultsOur estimates implied a 17.7% increase in NTM-PD incidence from 15.8 (14.9–16.8) in 2013 to 19.2 (18.2–20.4) in 2017, per 100 000 population. Moreover, 93.0% of the identified NTM-PD cases were dominated by theMycobacterium avium-intracellularecomplex, and the proportion ofM. abscessusspecies exceeded that ofM. kansasiifor the first time in Japan. We also revealed significant age and sex differences in NTM-PDs. Notably, we found similar characteristics between our laboratory data and national surveillance data covering almost the entire Japanese population.ConclusionThese findings, despite being laboratory-based, are extrapolatable to the general population in Japan and provide evidence that supports our system as a viable alternative to the nationwide NTM surveillance system.
A framework for modelling whole-lung and regional transfer factor of the lung for carbon monoxide using hyperpolarised xenon-129 lung magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Pilgrim-Morris Jemima H. , Smith Laurie J. , Marshall Helen , Tahir Bilal A. , Collier Guilhem J. , Stewart Neil J. , Wild Jim M. 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundPulmonary gas exchange is assessed by the transfer factor of the lungs (TL) for carbon monoxide (TLCO), and can also be measured with inhaled xenon-129 (129Xe) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A model has been proposed to estimateTLfrom129Xe MRI metrics, but this approach has not been fully validated and does not utilise the spatial information provided by three-dimensional129Xe MRI.MethodsThree models for predictingTLfrom129Xe MRI metrics were compared: 1) a previously-published physiology-based model, 2) multivariable linear regression and 3) random forest regression. Models were trained on data from 150 patients with asthma and/or COPD. The random forest model was applied voxel-wise to129Xe images to yield regionalTLmaps.ResultsCoefficients of the physiological model were found to differ from previously reported values. All models had good prediction accuracy with small mean absolute error (MAE): 1) 1.24±0.15 mmol·min−1·kPa−1, 2) 1.01±0.06 mmol·min−1·kPa−1, 3) 0.995±0.129 mmol·min−1·kPa−1. The random forest model performed well when applied to a validation group of post-COVID-19 patients and healthy volunteers (MAE=0.840 mmol·min−1·kPa−1), suggesting good generalisability. The feasibility of producing regional maps of predictedTLwas demonstrated and the whole-lung sum of theTLmaps agreed with measuredTLCO(MAE=1.18 mmol·min−1·kPa−1).ConclusionThe best prediction ofTLCOfrom129Xe MRI metrics was with a random forest regression framework. Applying this model on a voxel-wise level to create parametricTLmaps provides a useful tool for regional visualisation and clinical interpretation of129Xe gas exchange MRI.
Remote monitoring of patients with COPD disease using a tablet system: a randomised crossover study of quality-of-life measurements
Authors: Frerichs Malte , Li Huiqi , Andersson Anders , Andelid Kristina , Crona Monica , Vanfleteren Lowie E.G.W. 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundRemote patient monitoring (RPM) has been evaluated in COPD, but with varying results. We aimed to evaluate whether a tablet system that monitors disease-related parameters in patients with COPD could influence physical and mental health-related quality of life, compared with usual care (UC).Methods70 patients with Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) group D COPD (61% women, aged 71±8 years, forced expiratory volume in 1 s % predicted 41±13%, COPD Assessment Test (CAT) 19±7 points) were recruited at the COPD centre in Gothenburg, Sweden, and randomised to a tablet-based RPM system or UC for a 26-week period, after which they crossed over to the alternative management for another 26 weeks. The Short Form-12 (SF-12) (primary outcome), CAT, modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) Dyspnoea Scale, EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were evaluated at four visits. Exacerbations were continuously reported, as was adherence to RPM.Results59 patients completed the study: 28 patients randomised to start with UC and 31 randomised to start with RPM. The changes in the SF-12 Physical Component Summary (PCS) (UC: −1.17±6.90versusRPM: −1.06±8.15) and Mental Component Summary (MCS) (UC: 0.63±11.14versusRPM: −0.63±8.15), as well as in CAT, the mMRC scale, the EQ-5D, HADS anxiety, HADS depression and number of exacerbations, were similar in both intervention periods. Neither the 26-week UC period nor the intervention significantly affected the measured outcomes. There was a 95% adherence rate during RPM.ConclusionsA 26-week tablet-based RPM system that monitors CAT, oxygen saturation, blood pressure, pulse, weight and physical activity, connected to a case manager, is feasible and safe, but did not influence health-related quality of life in patients with COPD GOLD D.
Repeat expansions inRFC1gene in refractory chronic cough
Authors: Hirons Barnaby , Cho Peter S.P. , Rhatigan Katie , Shaw Joe , Curro Riccardo , Rugginini Bianca , Dominik Natalia , Turner Richard D. , Mackay Ewan , Hull James H. , Abubakar-Waziri Hisham , Kesavan Harini , Jolley Caroline J. , Hadden Robert D. , Cortese Andrea , Birring Surinder S. 
Published: September 2024

IntroductionRefractory chronic cough (RCC), persisting despite addressing contributory diagnoses, is likely underpinned by neurally mediated cough hypersensitivity.RFC1disorders are genetic neurodegenerative conditions caused by biallelicRFC1repeat expansion sequences, commonly presenting with cough, followed by neurological features including cerebellar ataxia with neuropathy and vestibular areflexia syndrome (CANVAS). The prevalence and identifying clinical characteristics ofRFC1repeat-expansion disorders in patients with RCC are unknown.MethodsConsecutive patients with RCC underwentRFC1genotyping, cough severity visual analogue scale (VAS) and cough-specific health status assessment (Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ)). Participants with biallelicRFC1repeat expansions (RFC1++) also underwent nerve conduction studies, brain imaging (MRI) and cough reflex sensitivity testing.Results51 participants with RCC were recruited; 36 (71%) female, median (IQR) age 65 (56–70) years, duration of cough 12.8 (6.9–20.0) years. Four (8%) were RFC1++, five (10%) monoallelic carriers (RFC1+−) and 42 (82%) of wild-type genotype (RFC1−−). No difference was observed in age, sex, cough duration, spirometry, VAS or LCQ scores between RFC1++and RFC1−−subjects (p>0.05). The symptom of pins and needles was more frequent in RFC1++(n=4, 100%) compared to RFC1−−(n=12, 33%) (p=0.01). RFC1++participants had impaired sensory action potentials, and one had cerebellar atrophy. RFC1++participants had heightened cough reflex sensitivity to capsaicin, similar to previous CANVAS and RCC studies.ConclusionBiallelic RFC1 repeat expansions (RFC1++) were present in 8% of RCC patients. RFC1++participants demonstrated features of cough reflex hypersensitivity. RFC1++chronic cough had few identifying features, although symptoms of pins and needles were more common.
A strong association between TTF-1 expression and interstitial lung disease in predicting the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitor for nonsquamous NSCLC patients
Authors: Ito Masaru , Honda Takayuki , Onishi Iichiroh , Endo Satoshi , Mochizuki Akifumi , Nishiyama Naoki , Sakakibara Rie , Takahashi Susumu , Kumagai Takashi , Hata Koki , Yoshii Sao , Nakamura Kentaro , Yamashita Takaaki , Tsukada Yoshikazu , Chiaki Tomoshige , Miyashita Yoshihiro , Natsume Ichirou , Saitou Kazuhito , Miyazaki Yasunari 
Published: September 2024

BackgroundThyroid transcriptional factor-1 (TTF-1) is associated with the development of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and is a mutational target in lung adenocarcinoma with ILD. TTF-1 expression is also associated with the efficacy of pemetrexed-based chemotherapy for nonsquamous nonsmall cell lung cancer (NS-NSCLC). However, the relationship between TTF-1 expression and the efficacy of immunotherapy using programmed cell death 1 inhibitor (PD-1i), especially in lung cancer patients with ILD, remains unclear.MethodsMedical data of NS-NSCLC patients treated with PD-1i at multiple centres were analysed retrospectively. Patients were divided into those with or without concomitant ILD, with the two cohorts further stratified by TTF-1 expression.ResultsThe study population included 62 NS-NSCLC patients, 34 with and 28 without ILD. Median progression-free survival (PFS) during PD-1i treatment was significantly shorter in TTF-1-negative than -positive patients (2.0versus12.1 months, p=0.004) in the ILD cohort but did not differ significantly in the non-ILD cohort (1.8versus2.6 months, p=0.63). Median overall survival (OS) was also significantly shorter in TTF-1-negative than -positive patients in the ILD cohort (14.5versus42.5 months, p=0.018) but not in the non-ILD cohort (33.7versus37.1 months, p=0.53). Cox regression analyses showed that absence of TTF-1 expression was an independent risk factor for PFS (hazard ratio (HR) 2.75, p=0.024) and OS (HR 2.81, p=0.012) in the ILD cohort.ConclusionTTF-1 expression in NS-NSCLC patients with ILD may predict prognosis when treated with PD-1i.