bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
10259-NQPC-9 CONTROVERSY ON INVASIVE AIRWAY MANAGEMENT IN PATIENTS WITH BRAIN STEM MALIGNANT GLIOMA.
Authors: Ikeda Kensuke , Saito Kuniaki , Yamagishi Yuki , Sasaki Nobuyoshi , Kobayashi Keiichi , Nakatomi Hirofumi , Nagane Motoo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

INTRODUCTION
The prognosis for patients with malignant gliomas of the brainstem is poor. As the tumor progresses into the medulla oblongata, the lower cranial nerves are affected, resulting in dysphagia and eventually respiratory paralysis. On the other hand, higher cerebral function is often preserved, making it a palliative medical issue whether to perform invasive procedures to secure the airway. We report here three characteristic cases treated at our hospital.

CASE 1
A-60-year-old male patient with diffuse midline glioma of the medulla oblongata was admitted to our hospital for radiation therapy and concomitant temozolomide. His consciousness level was clear, but dysphagia was noted. Although he was at risk for aspiration and choking, he did not wish to undergo surgery to prevent aspiration. After treatment was started, he died of choking.

CASE 2
A-50-year-old male patient with recurrent astrocytoma in the brainstem was admitted for bevacizumab monotherapy. Despite the treatment, his dysphagia gradually worsened, and he developed respiratory failure due to aspiration pneumonia, resulting in tracheal intubation. Subsequently, he underwent glottis closure, and as a result, he lost his speech but recurrence of aspiration pneumonia and choking were prevented.

CASE 3
A-50-year-old male patient with cerebellar glioma invading brainstem was admitted due to aspiration pneumonia. He was disoriented and required heavy care. He did not wish to undergo surgery to prevent aspiration, but with antimicrobial therapy and frequent oral suctioning, his aspiration pneumonia was cured.

DISCUSSION
Although invasive procedures are generally avoided in terminal-stage cancer patients, anti-aspiration procedures such as tracheostomy and glottis closure may be considered for the conscious patients with malignant glioma in the brainstem. These procedures might be an option at the end of life to avoid painful death due to choking and to prevent deterioration of the patient's condition due to repeated aspiration pneumonia.
10264-NQPC-10 ACTIVITY RECORD OF THE JAPAN BRAIN TUMOR ALLIANCE, AND THE NEEDS OF BRAIN TUMOR PATIENTS AND FAMILIES
Authors: Nomura Keiko , Tagawa Hisato , Yamaguchi Shuji , Gatellier Laureline 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Brain tumor is a major shock at diagnosis for patients and their families, and is likely to have physical, emotional, financial, and social impacts to them. These impacts are not limited to during treatment, but affect their lives even after the treatment is over. Therefore, continuous support is a must for brain tumor patients and their families. The Japan Brain Tumor Alliance (JBTA) was established in 2006 and provides nationwide patient support. Our main activities are 1) support for patients and their families, 2) provision of the latest information and networking, 3) contribution to advocacy and science, and 4) awareness-raising activities. In (1), we hold monthly social gatherings where patients and their families can share their daily problems and challenges. In (2), JBTA actively collaborated with other patient groups in Japan and abroad, and in (4), continues to provide up-to-date information via website and social media. JBTA has been particularly active in 3) by holding the seminars by health care professionals and the meetings with neurosurgeons in Japan Clinical Oncology Group to discuss newly planned clinical trials. Our cooperation with rehabilitation therapists and nurses resulted in a brochure for patients, "Brain Tumor Support Book". As members of the committee of supportive care for brain tumor patients which was established in the Japan Society of Neuro-Oncology, collaboration with various health care professionals was made to prepare leaflets for supportive care including advance care planning. Since April 2023, a survey to find out the needs of patients and caregivers is on-going. The interim report as of June 2023 showed that patients and their caregivers have difficulties to share their concerns and problems, and that they have few opportunities to receive support from multidisciplinary professionals. Therefore, more supports for brain tumor patients and their families are needed in their daily lives.
Network targeting combination therapy of synthetic lethal vulnerabilities in 9p21-deficient glioblastoma: A case report
Authors: Castro Michael P , Dittmar Kristin 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Patients with relapsed or progressive glioblastoma only rarely respond to salvage therapies. Nevertheless, comprehensive genomic profiling can provide insight that can identify promising approaches. Signaling pathway analyses have revealed synthetic lethal partnerships, which create the possibility of targeting vulnerabilities arising from the loss of tumor suppressor genes. For synthetic lethal vulnerabilities that are not present in normal tissues, lethal cytotoxicity against cancer cells can be achieved without the necessity of causing normal tissue toxicity. This case report describes a patient with progressive glioblastoma with homozygous deletion of chromosome 9p21.

Methods and Results
Vulnerabilities created by CDKN2A and MTAP loss were exploited with pemetrexed, bevacizumab, and candesartan to achieve a clinically meaningful remission by targeting multiple synthetic lethal nodes.

Conclusion
Synthetic lethality can reveal the basis for exceptional responsiveness, thus extending the utility of molecular profiling and fulfilling the promise of precision medicine.
Lived experience of work and long COVID in healthcare staff
Authors: Torrance N , MacIver E , Adams N N , Skåtun D , Scott N , Kennedy C , Douglas F , Hernandez-Santiago V , Grant A 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
Healthcare workers (HCWs) had a greater occupational risk of exposure to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and reported higher rates of long COVID (LC). This has implications for the provision of health care in already stretched health services.

Aims
This study explored the impact of LC on a range of UK National Health Service (NHS) HCWs, their health and well-being, the effect on work patterns, and occupational support received.

METHODS
Mixed-methods study, online survey and qualitative interviews. Participants self-reporting LC symptoms were recruited through social media and NHS channels. Interviews used maximum variation sampling of 50 HCWs including healthcare professionals, ancillary and administration staff. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software.

RESULTS
A total of 471 HCWs completed the online survey. Multiple LC symptoms were reported, revealing activity limitations for 90%. Two-thirds had taken sick leave, 18% were off-work and 33% reported changes in work duties. There were few differences in work practices by occupational group. Most participants were working but managing complex and dynamic symptoms, with periods of improvement and exacerbation. They engaged in a range of strategies: rest, pacing, planning and prioritizing, with work prioritized over other aspects of life. Symptom improvements were often linked to occupational medicine, managerial, colleague support and flexible workplace adjustments.

Conclusions
LC has a significant impact on the lives of HCWs suffering prolonged symptoms. Due to the variability and dynamic nature of symptoms, workplace support and flexible policies are needed to help retain staff.
Occupational effects in patients with post-COVID-19 syndrome
Authors: Green C E , Leeds J S , Leeds C M 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background
It is well recognized that some individuals experience persistent symptoms following an initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Symptoms affect physical, cognitive and mental well-being and can adversely impact activities of daily living, including the ability to work.

Aims
To examine the impact of post-COVID-19 syndrome with respect to effects on quality of life and impact on work in a cohort of people referred to a ‘Long COVID’ service.

METHODS
All triaged patients (over 18 years with symptoms more than 12 weeks since the initial infection) completed a symptom assessment questionnaire. Occupation and working status (at work, at work struggling with symptoms and off work) were also recorded. Impact on function and quality of life was assessed using the EQ5D5L questionnaire.

RESULTS
A total of 214 patients (median age 51.0 years, 135 females) were seen from January to September 2021. Analysis of occupational status showed: 18% were working, 40% were working but struggling and 35% had stopped working due to symptoms. Those unable to work reported significantly more fatigue, a greater perception of the need for support and lower quality-of-life scores.

Conclusions
This study shows the extensive impact of post-COVID-19 syndrome on the ability to return to work. Specific return-to-work guidance is needed to support a large proportion of those struggling with the condition. The involvement of the Occupational Health team should form part of the multidisciplinary, collaborative approach to support rehabilitation and improve long-term outcomes for this condition.
The experience of youth on the waitlist for gender-affirming care in Manitoba
Authors: Bhatla Jennifer L , James Kristin , Lamb Kaylen (Kay) A E , Neault-Lount Chrystal , Protudjer Jennifer L P , Reitmeier Shayne D , Cooney Megan , Wicklow Brandy 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objectives
Waitlist times for adolescents to be seen for initial assessment for gender-affirming hormone therapy in Manitoba, Canada are often 2 years. The purpose of this study was to understand the experiences of waitlisted youth and to assess the impact of social work contact for accessing relevant resources.

Methods
A qualitative, semi-structured interview study was conducted. Youth aged 14 to 17 years on the provincial transgender clinic waitlist for 12 to 24 months for gender-affirming hormone therapy assessment and their caregivers were recruited. Eight youth and nine caregivers were interviewed. Separate interviews were conducted for youth and their caregivers. All interviews were virtual, recorded, and transcribed prior to thematic analysis.

Results
Three themes and eight subthemes were identified. Youth (n = 8) and caregivers (n = 9) described barriers to supported transition in the following three themes: (1) ‘In a Black Hole’: Describing the lack of communication, relevant resources, and mental health supports, (2) ‘Structural Transphobia’: A summary term outlining the attitudinal, technological, physical, and architectural barriers faced by the participants, and (3) ‘Manitoba: An Information Desert’: describing the systemic barriers faced including lack of knowledgeable providers and reliable information within the province.

Conclusions
Although delays in gender-affirming therapy were noted, youth socially transitioned and accessed existing resources. However, mental health concerns persisted, and participants felt frustrated and unsupported during their extensive wait times. Improved experiences may be achieved by additional communication from the clinic, hands-on assistance with accessing relevant resources, and an improved online presence.
Does higher education matter in policing? An examination of the promotional process to sergeant
Authors: Chavez Enrique , Torres Christopher E , Lee-Silcox Joelle 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe police sergeant is often regarded as the most influential position in any law enforcement agency, given their direct effect on officer behaviour. As the gateway to police management, the promotion to sergeant offers an opportunity to examine the importance of the growing role of higher education in policing. In analysing the relationship between different levels of higher education and the sergeant promotional examinations, this study found that those with graduate degrees are more likely to become sergeants. While this relationship is striking, the most crucial predictor of the promotion to sergeant belongs to the dominant ethnic group in the agency. Whether in the written exam or interview components of the sergeant’s promotion process, police agencies do not appear to have captured the benefits of higher education in the first rung of the promotion to senior management. Policy implications and avenues for future research are discussed.
Phase diagram near the quantum critical point in Schwinger model at θ = π: analogy with quantum Ising chain
Authors: Ohata Hiroki 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The Schwinger model, 1D quantum electrodynamics, has CP symmetry at θ = π due to the topological nature of the θ term. At zero temperature, it is known that as the fermion mass increases, the system undergoes a second-order phase transition to the CP broken phase, which belongs to the same universality class as the quantum Ising chain. In this paper, we obtain the phase diagram near the quantum critical point (QCP) in the temperature and fermion mass plane using first-principle Monte Carlo simulations, while avoiding the sign problem by using the lattice formulation of the bosonized Schwinger model. Specifically, we perform a detailed investigation of the correlation function of the electric field near the QCP and find that its asymptotic behavior can be described by the universal scaling function of the quantum Ising chain. This finding indicates the existence of three regions near the QCP, each characterized by a specific asymptotic form of the correlation length, and demonstrates that the CP symmetry is restored at any nonzero temperature, entirely analogous to the quantum Ising chain. The range of the scaling behavior is also examined and found to be particularly wide.
Examining the relationship between autism spectrum disorder in children whose mother had labour epidural analgesia for their birth
Authors: Zamstein Omri , Sheiner Eyal , Binyamin Yair , Pariente Gali , Wainstock Tamar 
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND
Controversy exists regarding the association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children whose mother had labour epidural analgesia for their birth, as the few existing investigations have reported mixed findings.

OBJECTIVE
This study aims to evaluate the possibility of an association in our heterogeneous population.

DESIGN
A retrospective population-based cohort study.

SETTING
Vaginal deliveries that took place between the years 2005 and 2017 at Soroka University Medical Center, a tertiary referral hospital in Israel, and a follow-up on the incidence of ASD in the children.

PATIENTS
A hundred and thirty-nine thousand, nine hundred and eighty-one labouring patients and their offspring.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES
The incidence of children diagnosed with ASD (both hospital and community-based diagnoses) was compared based on whether their mothers had received labour epidural analgesia during their labour. A Kaplan–Meier survival curve compared cumulative incidence of ASD. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to control for relevant confounders.

RESULTS
Labour epidural analgesia was administered to 33 315 women. Epidural analgesia was more common among high-risk pregnancy groups (including pregnancies complicated with diabetes mellitus, hypertensive disorders, intrauterine growth restriction, and oligohydramnios; P < 0.001). In a Cox proportional hazards model, the association between epidural analgesia during labour and ASD in the children lost statistical significance following adjustment for confounders such as maternal age, gestational age, hypertensive disorders, diabetes mellitus, and ethnicity [adjusted hazard ratio = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.96 to 1.34, P = 0.152].

CONCLUSION
In our population, after adjusting for confounders, epidural analgesia is not independently associated with autism spectrum disorder in the children. These findings enhance our knowledge regarding the safety of epidural analgesia and enable patients to make informed decisions about their pain relief techniques during labour.
Comparison of visual outcomes of bilateral dual-technology diffractive intraocular lens vs blended enhanced monofocal with dual-technology intraocular lens
Authors: Hida Wilson Takashi , Moscovici Bernardo Kaplan , Cortez Cesar Martins , Colombo-Barboza Guilherme Novoa , Tzelikis Patrick Frensel de Moraes , Motta Antonio Francisco Pimenta , De Medeiros Andre Lins , Nose Walton , Carricondo Pedro Carlos 
Published: December 2023

Purpose:
To compare clinical outcomes after implantation of TECNIS Synergy (ZFR00V) intraocular lenses (IOLs) in both eyes and implantation of the TECNIS Synergy and TECNIS Eyhance (ICB00) combination in patients undergoing cataract surgery.

Setting:
Department of Cataract, Hospital Oftalmológico de Brasilia (HOB), Brasília, Brazil.

Design:
Prospective, interventional, randomized, parallel-group study.

Methods:
Patients were categorized into 2 groups: Group 1: ZFR00V IOL was implanted in both eyes. Group 2: An ICB00 IOL was implanted in the dominant eye, and a ZFR00V IOL was implanted in the nondominant eye.

Results:
Visual acuity was similar between the 2 groups (95% CI <0.1 logMAR). A superior visual acuity of ≥ 20/25 (at −2.00 to −2.50 diopters [D]) was achieved in Group 1 (bilateral ZFR00V) than in Group 2 (combination of ZFR00V/ICB00). The binocular defocus curve demonstrated better visual acuity at 40 cm (−2.00 D) and 50 cm (−2.50 D) in Group 1 than in Group 2 (P < .05). Similar contrast sensitivity values were observed between the 2 groups. Patients in Group 1 reported higher satisfaction (completely satisfied) than those in Group 2 (P < .05). However, halos and glare were more pronounced in Group 1 than in Group 2 (P < .05).

Conclusions:
Both presbyopia-correcting IOL combinations showed similar binocular visual acuity results. Group 1 demonstrated enhanced visual acuity in the defocus curve at 40 cm (−2.00 D) and 50 cm (−2.50 D). Comparable contrast sensitivity outcomes were observed in both groups. Patients were more completely satisfied in Group 1 than in Group 2, despite the higher frequency of postoperative nighttime halos and glare.
Surgical outcomes of intraocular lens iris suture fixation in eyes with residual capsule support
Authors: Alsetri Hasan , Masket Samuel , Fram Nicole , Schoen Marisa , Cabang Julieanne , Pagal Jared , Kwong Stephen , Fram Ashlyn , Sandoval Hector 
Published: December 2023

Purpose:
To evaluate the safety and refractive outcomes of eyes after intraocular lens (IOL) iris suture fixation (ISF).

Setting:
Private practice, Los Angeles, California.

Design:
Nonrandomized and unmasked retrospective chart review.

Methods:
Eyes that underwent IOL exchange or repositioning with ISF with at least 270 degrees of capsular support were included. Eyes with less than 270 degrees of capsular support and eyes with iris damage were excluded. The primary outcome measures included incidence of cystoid macular edema (CME), IOL dislocation requiring refixation, and chronic inflammation. Secondary outcome measures included worsening intraocular pressure (IOP) control, retinal tear or detachment, worsening of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and corneal decompensation. Refractive outcomes for 26 subgrouped eyes included mean and median spherical equivalent refraction accuracy (SERA), and percentage of eyes within 0.5 diopter (D) and 1 D of the refractive target.

Results:
The study included 53 eyes of 50 patients. CME: 2/53 (3.8%), IOL dislocation requiring refixation: 2/53 (3.8%), chronic inflammation: 1/53 (1.9%), worsening IOP control: 5/53 (9.4%), retinal tear or detachment: 2/53 (3.8%). No patient experienced worsening of CDVA from baseline or corneal decompensation. Mean SERA ± SD −0.35 ± 0.29 D, median SERA −0.37 D. Of the 26 eyes subgrouped for refractive analysis, 73% were within 0.5 D and 100% were within 1 D of the desired refractive outcome.

Conclusions:
ISF can offer stability for sulcus-fixated IOLs provided there is some residual capsule support. Although there are measurable complications, there is a relatively low side effect profile. The refractive error tended to be myopic, indicating the need for further refinement of IOL power predictive formulas.
The Stapes Head Coupler—A Flexible and Safe Option for Vibroplasty
Authors: Spahn Bjoern , Koestler Carolina , Herrmann David , Voelker Johannes , Engert Jonas , Kurz Anja , Hagen Rudolf , Cebulla Mario , Rak Kristen 
Published: December 2023

Objective
To investigate the surgical approach and the audiological outcome of a stapes head coupler in active middle ear implant surgery.

Study design
Retrospective data analysis.

Setting
Tertiary referral center with a large active middle ear implant program.

Patients
Twelve patients with active middle ear implant surgery.

Interventions
Therapeutic surgical approach for hearing rehabilitation in human subjects.

Main Outcome Measure(s)
Auditory brainstem response, sound field thresholds, vibrogram, speech perception in the Freiburger monosyllabic word test.

Results
The stapes head was attached safely in different coupling situations. Audiological outcomes were similar to the audiological performance of established vibroplasty couplers presented in the literature.

Conclusion
The stapes head coupler is a new and safe tool for vibroplasty with a good audiological outcome.
Comparison of Transcutaneous and Percutaneous Implantable Hearing Devices for the Management of Congenital Aural Atresia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gutierrez Jorge A. , Shannon Christian M. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Meyer Ted A. , Lambert Paul R. 
Published: December 2023

Objective
To compare audiometric outcomes, complications, and revisions required for percutaneous (pBCD) versus transcutaneous (tBCD) implantable bone-conduction devices for the treatment of hearing loss associated with congenital aural atresia (CAA).
Databases Reviewed.
PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL.

Methods
A systematic review was performed searching for English language articles from inception to December 14, 2022. Studies reporting audiometric outcomes or complications for either pBCDs or tBCDs for the treatment of CAA were selected for inclusion. A meta-analysis of single means and meta-analysis of proportions with comparison (Δ) of weighted proportions was conducted.

Results
A total of 56 articles with 756 patients were selected for inclusion. One hundred ninety patients were implanted with pBCDs, whereas the remaining 566 were implanted with tBCDs. Mean pure-tone audiometry improvement in the pBCD group (39.1 ± 1.1 dB) was significantly higher than in the tBCD group (34.6 ± 1.6 dB; Δ4.5 dB; 95% confidence interval, 4.2–4.7 dB; p < 0.0001). The average improvement in speech reception threshold was 38.6 ± 2.5 dB in the percutaneous group as compared with 32.7 ± 1.6 dB in the transcutaneous group (Δ5.9 dB [5.3–6.5 dB], p < 0.0001). Overall complication rates for patients implanted with pBCDs and tBCDs were 29.0% (15.7–44.4%) and 9.4% (6.5%–13.0%), respectively (Δ19.6% [12.0–27.7%], p < 0.0001).

Conclusions
Patients with CAA implanted with pBCDs had significantly better audiometric outcomes than those implanted with tBCDs. However, complication rates were significantly higher among the pBCD group.