bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of acupuncture on recovery after colorectal cancer resection: A systematic review meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Qi Lin , Shi Hongshuo , Zhang Yunsong , Zhang Xuecheng , Jia Hongling , Tian Hu 
Published: September 2023

Background:
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture by systematically reviewing the literature on colorectal cancer resection.

Methods:
Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to February 28, 2023. Randomized controlled trials on acupuncture in patients after CRC resection were included. Two reviewers independently selected relevant trials, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. A random-effects meta-analysis model was used to obtain summary effect estimates. The data were pooled and analyzed using RevMan 5.3. The heterogeneity of selected studies was evaluated by evaluating the I-squared (I
2) statistics.

Results:
Twenty-two studies with 1878 patients were included. Results of the meta-analysis showed there was a low level evidence that acupuncture may improve early postoperative symptoms, such as time to first flatus (n = 876, MD −0.77h, 95% CI −1.22 to −0.33 h, I
2 = 89%), time to first bowel movement (n = 671, MD −1.41h, 95% CI −2.20 to −0.63 h, I
2 = 95%), time to first defecation (n = 556, MD −1.03h, 95% CI −1.88 to −0.18 h, I
2 = 95%), and nausea/vomiting (n = 1488, RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.59–0.89, I
2 = 49%) compared with usual care and sham acupuncture. However, there were no statistically significant differences in postoperative pain (n = 1188, MD-0.21, 95% CI −0.59 to 0.17, I
2 = 74%). And there was no sufficient evidence of improving long-term functional outcomes. There was substantial heterogeneity across trials. The adverse events associated with acupuncture stimulation were minor in include studies.

Conclusion subsections:
There is currently low-level evidence supporting the use of acupuncture on postoperative symptoms for patients after colorectal cancer resection. More investigations should be established based on the STRICTA statement strictly.
Association between post-stroke cognitive impairment and gut microbiota: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Xiaozhen , Mao Yajun , Luo Fang , Wang Xijun 
Published: September 2023

Background:
Accumulating evidence has indicated a possible connection between post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and gut microbiota imbalance. To further investigate this association, the present work was designed to systematically assess the dissimilarity of gut microbiota between PSCI and healthy individuals or stroke patients.

Methods:
A meta-analysis and systematic review was conducted by searching various databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, VIP, CNKI, and Wangfang for relevant studies. The pooled outcomes were used to estimate the combined dissimilarity of gut microbiota composition between PSCI and healthy individuals or patients with stroke.

Results:
Nine eligible studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that there were no significant changes in observed richness indexes (Chao1 and ACE) and Shannon index. Notably, a significant decrease in Simpson index was observed in PSCI patients in comparison to the healthy individuals (–0.31, 95% CI: –0.62 to –0.01, P = 0.04). Moreover, the microbiota composition at the phylum level (increased abundance of Proteobacteria), family level (increased abundance of Bacteroidaceae, Lachnospiraceae, and Veillonellaceae; decreased abundance of Enterobacteriaceae), and genus level (increased abundance of Bacteroides, Clostridium XIVa, and Parabacteroides; decreased abundance of Prevotella and Ruminococcus) was found to be significantly different between PSCI and controls.

Conclusion:
This meta-analysis suggests a significant shift of observed species and microbiota composition in PSCI compared to healthy individuals or patients with stroke.
Novel heterozygous mutations of SLC12A3 gene in a Chinese pedigree with Gitelman syndrome: A care-compliant case report
Authors: Bi Ye , Kuang Ming-Yang , Li Ming-Long 
Published: September 2023

Rationale:
The diagnosis of Gentleman syndrome (GS) is usually delayed because the clinical symptoms are easily mistaken.

Patient concerns:
A 19-year-old male patient was referred to endocrinology due to intermittent twitch of extremities for approximately 7 years.

Diagnoses:
The diagnosis of GS was made based on the laboratory and gene detection results. We identified 2 new variants in the SLC12A3 gene [c.857 A > C (exon7) and c.2089_2095del (exon17)] in his Asian family.

Interventions:
The patient received the treatment of potassium chloride sustained release tablets, potassium magnesium aspartate and spironolactone. After given potassium supplement through enema, his serum potassium level was corrected to normal.

Outcomes:
The electrolyte imbalance including hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia were improved with a remission of the clinical manifestations. But the patient’s condition still could not remain stable for his irregular oral potassium supplementation during the follow-up of nearly 3 months.

Lessons:
Our finding broadens the variant spectrum of SLC12A3 and contributes to a more quickly genetic counseling. As a result, when a patient presents with persistent, unspecified, and inadequately treated hypokalemia, tests for GS should indeed be considered. For suspected cases of GS, genetic testing should always be considered in the diagnosis.
GLP-1 receptor agonists modulate blood glucose levels in T2DM by affecting Faecalibacterium prausnitzii abundance in the intestine
Authors: Liang Lei , Rao Elizabeth , Zhang Xuxiang , Wu Bin , Su Xiaoyun , Chen Lin , Nie Rong , Nian Xin 
Published: September 2023

Background:
Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes, including metformin, which is considered first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes. In recent years, GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been found to alter the composition and structure of gut flora and also promote the production of gut probiotics. However, there have been few clinical studies regarding the effects of GLP-1 RAs on gut flora. In this study, we investigated changes in the abundance of Lactobacillus delbrueckii (L delbrueckii) and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii (F prausnitzii) 1 week after administration of a GLP-1 RA in the clinical treatment of type 2 diabetes. The association with glycemic and body mass index (BMI) correlations was also explored.

Methods:
Twelve newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes were examined for changes in the abundance of L delbrueckii and F prausnitzii by Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization 1 week after administration of GLP-1 RAs. Subjects BMI was measured and fasting glucose changes were detected using the glucose oxidase method, and Spearman correlation analysis was performed to explore their relevance.

Results:
There was no significant change in the abundance of L delbrueckii in the intestine (P = .695) and no significant correlation with BMI and fasting glucose levels (R = 0.134, P = .534) after the use of GLP-1 RA (R = −0.098, P = .647); F prausnitzii on the other hand had a significantly higher abundance (P = .002) and a significant negative correlation with fasting glucose level (R = −0.689, P < .001), but no significant correlation with BMI (R = −0.056, P = .796).

Conclusion:

F prausnitzii may be one of the pathways through which glucose is regulated in the treatment of type 2 diabetes by GLP-1 RAs.
Assessment of drug prescription practises in chronic hemodialysis patients: case series
Authors: Boukabous Sara , Meftah Hicham , Frikal Kaoutar , Bentata Yassamine , Haddiya Intissar 
Published: September 2023

Introduction:
The aim of the study was to assess the quality of drugs prescriptions in chronic haemodialysis patients.

Material and methods:
The authors conducted a prospective study in chronic haemodialysis patients of two haemodialysis centres in the city of Oujda eastern Morocco, during the year of 2020. The authors identified the drugs prescribed in this population with regards to the product characteristics, in terms of indications, contraindications, dosage and drug interactions. Our data were analyzed by SPSS version 27 software.

Results:
The mean number of drugs taken per patient was 8.15±6. Ninety-three percent of patients received treatment for anaemia. Phosphocalcic disorders and hypertension were treated in 89% and 72% of patients, respectively. In 77.6% of the cases, these drugs were taken orally. According to Vidal, the majority of prescriptions met the criteria of good prescription, in 81.54% of the cases, versus 18.46% of the patients with at least one of non-compliant prescription. On the other hand, 6.15% of the patients had at least one inadvisable combination. No contraindicated association was noted in our patients.

Conclusion:
Patients undergoing haemodialysis have a higher risk of developing side effects and drug interactions than patients with normal kidney function. Given the paucity of pharmacokinetic studies in this population, nephrologists refer to their own experience to treat his patients effectively.
Therapeutic education and regular monitoring of chronic haemodialysis patients can improve clinical outcomes, quality of life and reduce the cost of care.
Anterior Nutcracker syndrome in a young male patient: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Hamdan Alaa , Homsy Sleman , Rashid Gowhar , Rehman Andleeb , Al-Jamal Mohammad 
Published: September 2023

Introduction and importance:
The left renal vein (LRV) is affected by a venous compression syndrome called Nutcracker syndrome (NCS). This syndrome is characterized by extrinsic compression of the LRV, which usually occurs between aorta and superior mesenteric artery. It is a rare and under-diagnosed condition, more prevalent in females and that, if left untreated, can lead to severe problems. There are no clear guidelines regarding management. Therefore, the authors report this rare case and its symptoms in male patient and they display current management options.

Case presentation:
NCS was observed during computer tomography in a male patient presented with persistent left flank pain and associated haematuria. Ultrasound for left scrotum demonstrated left moderate-sized varicocele. The left varicocele testis unit was 1.6 mm and during the Valsalva manoeuvre in the supine position the testis unit was 2 mm. LRV compression between abdominal aorta and superior mesenteric artery was identified by computer tomography imaging and therefore, diagnosis of NCS was confirmed.

Clinical discussion:
The actual prevalence is unclear, and incidence rates have been observed to fluctuate among age group and more prevalent in women. Main symptoms include haematuria, left flank discomfort, varicocele in men, proteinuria and anaemia. Depending on severity of symptoms, management might range from conservative care to surgery.

Conclusion:
This treatment strategy was effective in reducing the symptoms of the patients. In young patients, conservative treatment is advised for a fair amount of time. However, more studies on how much the authors should wait before considering surgery is important.
The pandemic’s unseen wounds: COVID-19’s profound effects on mental health
Authors: Chaudhary Rishabh , Rohilla Manni , Chauhan Samrat , Saini Monika , Aman Shahbaz , Singla Hrithik , bibi Ayesha , Ahmed Sohel , Shriwastav Shalini , Kaur Narinder , Dev Jai , Chalotra Rishabh , Singh Thakur Gurjeet , Mehta Sachin 
Published: September 2023

Objective:
This review aims to explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, with a focus on the physiological and psychological consequences, including comorbidities. The goal is to understand the direct and indirect populations affected by mental distress and identify potential interventions.

Methodology:
A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various databases, including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, PubMed, PLoS One, and Web of Science. The search utilized relevant keywords to investigate the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on mental health. The selected articles were critically evaluated and analyzed to identify key findings and insights.

Main findings:
Mental health, being an intrinsic component of overall well-being, plays a vital role in physiological functioning. The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the emergence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus, has had a devastating global impact. Beyond the respiratory symptoms, individuals recovering from COVID-19 commonly experience additional ailments, such as arrhythmia, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Healthcare professionals on the frontlines face an elevated risk of mental illness. However, it is crucial to recognize that the general population also grapples with comparable levels of mental distress.

Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the significance of addressing mental health concerns. Various strategies can help mitigate the impact, including counselling, fostering open lines of communication, providing mental support, ensuring comprehensive patient care, and administering appropriate medications. In severe cases, treatment may involve the supplementation of essential vitamins and antidepressant therapy. By understanding the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on mental health, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop targeted interventions to support individuals and communities affected by the pandemic. Continued research and collaborative efforts are essential to address this pervasive issue effectively.
Distinct non-contrast computerized tomography head findings in a patient with secondary polycythemia in rural Nepal: a captivating case report highlighting diagnostic challenges
Authors: Ghimire Aastha , Katwal Shailendra , Shrestha Kusum , Baniya Sunil 
Published: September 2023

Introduction:
Tetralogy of Fallot is a cyanotic congenital heart disease which if untreated leads to death by adulthood. In rare cases who survive this can lead to secondary polycythemia due to chronic hypoxia who can present with multiple indistinct symptoms leading to diagnostic dilemma.

Case presentation:
The authors present a rare case of secondary polycythemia diagnosed in early fifties with the unique non-contrast computerized tomography head findings who presented with a spectrum of long standing symptoms and a history of neurological manifestations.

Clinical discussion:
Patients diagnosed with polycythemia in adulthood can have a background of an untreated congenital heart disease, which can be complemented further by appropriate radiological investigations in a resource poor setting.

Conclusion:
Polycythemia secondary to an untreated congenital heart disease in the age beyond 50 is a rare occurrence. The presentation of these patients might present clinicians with a diagnostic challenge which can be mitigated with an appropriate knowledge of the peculiar non-contrast computerized tomography head findings.
Myiasis of open great toe fracture wound: a rare case report
Authors: Khadka Sabir K. , Banmala Sabin , Dhakal Sujan B. , Pandey Ashmita , Jha Sudhanshu 
Published: September 2023

Introduction and importance:
Myiasis of an open fracture wound is very rare but can occur due to neglect of wound care.

Case presentation:
A 12-year-old boy from a low socio-economic background, following an impact injury in his right great toe 10 days back presented with complaints of pain, swelling, and a foul-smelling odor from his right great toe. On examination, a swollen, tender puncture wound was noted over the dorsal aspect of the great toe revealing part of live larvae and serosanguinous discharge. Management was done with the complete removal of maggots, wound debridement, wound lavage, administration of systemic antibiotics, and toe guard slab application.

Clinical discussion:
Wound myiasis results from a facultative or obligatory parasite that is initiated when flies oviposit in hemorrhagic, necrotic, or pus-filled lesions. The possible complications of myiasis include local destruction, invasion into deep tissues, and secondary infection, which could result in amputation of the affected area, especially where obligatory parasites are concerned.

Conclusion:
Myiasis commonly occurs due to poor hygiene and neglect of wound care along with many other risk factors. Early proper wound care prevents the development of wound myiasis and early diagnosis and treatment of myiasis prevent complication of local tissue destruction and amputation of affected parts.
Diplopia in the Younger Adult (≤65 Years Old) Compared With Older Adult (>65 Years Old) Population—Presentation, Progression, and Outcome
Authors: Gindelskhi Sagiv Rotem , Levy Niv , Huna-Baron Ruth , Leiba Hana , Paz Tal , Rappoport Daniel 
Published: September 2023

Background:
Despite the impact of new-onset diplopia on the quality of life, there are few studies concerning new-onset diplopia in seniors. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology, etiology, prognosis, and outcome of different treatments in the older adults compared with younger adult patients presenting with new-onset binocular diplopia.

Methods:
A retrospective chart review of patients ≥18 YO with new-onset binocular diplopia presenting between 2010 and 2021. Data collected included age at presentation, gender, duration of time since diplopia onset, imaging results, known trigger, etiology, treatment, and follow-up.

Results:
Two hundred ten patients were included. Of them, 75 patients were ≤65 YO (35.7%, the “younger adult group”) and 135 > 65 YO (64.3%, the “older adults group”). The common etiology in both groups was neurogenic (54.7% ≤ 65 vs 62.2% >65, P = 0.29). Cranial nerve palsies were more commonly microvascular in the older adults (96.0% vs 74.1%, P = 0.005), whereas tumor-related cranial nerve palsies were more frequent in younger adults (14.81% vs 2.04%, P = 0.03). A restrictive etiology was observed in 20% of younger adult compared with 11.1% of older adults group (P = 0.08). Sagging eye syndrome (SES) was the second most common etiology in the older adults group at 11.9%, compared with 1.3% in the younger adult group (P = 0.01). Decompensated phoria/tropia appeared in 16% of younger adult group compared with 11.9% of older adults (P = 0.4), with an obvious trigger (mostly cataract surgery) in the latter (80% older adults vs 20% younger adults, P = 0.019). Positive imaging findings were found in 46.7% of patients ≤65 compared with 25.3% of >65 (P = 0.01) and complete spontaneous resolution of diplopia was noted in 32.1% of the older adults compared with 11.8% of younger adults (P = 0.003).

Conclusions:
Neurogenic diplopia was the most common etiology for both groups, but is more prominent in the older adults. Noticeable findings in the older adults were SES diagnosis, identification of triggers for impaired fusion/diplopia, and a paucity of positive findings in imaging results. It is important to know these differences not only for managing seniors better, but also to minimize symptoms of binocular diplopia after lens-related procedures.
A mixed-methods evaluation of patients’ views on primary care multi-disciplinary teams in Scotland
Authors: Sweeney KD , Donaghy E , Henderson D , Wang HHX , Mercer SW 
Published: September 2023

AbstractBackgroundExpanding the primary care multi-disciplinary team (MDT) is a key aim of the 2018 Scottish GP contract, and over 3,000 new MDT-staff have been appointed since then.AimTo explore patients’ views on MDT expansion in primary care in Scotland.Design and methodsSurvey of patients aged 18 years and over who had consulted a GP in the previous four weeks, in three population settings (deprived urban (DU), affluent urban (AU) and remote and rural (RR)), followed by 30 semi-structured individual interviews. The survey assessed awareness of five key new MDT roles, and attitudes towards reception signposting. Interviews explored views regarding MDT-care generally.ResultsOf the 1,053 survey respondents, most were unaware of the possibility of being offered MDT, rather than GP, consultations, for three out of five roles (69% unaware of link worker appointments; 68% mental health nurse; 58% pharmacist). Reception signposting to MDT was viewed significantly more negatively in DU areas than elsewhere (34% quite or very unhappy vs 21% AU vs 29% RR; p<0.001).Most of the 30 patients interviewed were accepting of MDT-care, and many reported positive first-hand experiences. Improved access and added expertise were perceived benefits. However, many had reservations about MDT expansion and an overriding preference for holistic, relationship-based GP-care.ConclusionFour years since the introduction of the new Scottish GP contract, patient awareness of MDT expansion is limited, views on reception signposting mixed, though experiences of MDT-care generally positive. However, patients still want to see a known GP when they feel it is important, and report this as being challenging especially in deprived areas.
How will COVID-19 persist in the future? Simulating future dynamics of COVID-19 using an agent-based network model
Authors: Roubenoff Ethan 
Published: September 2023

AbstractDespite the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC)’s May 2023 expiration of the declared public health emergency pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic (Silk 2023), approximately 3 years after the first cases of SARS-CoV-2 appeared in the United Sates, thousands of new cases persist daily. Many questions persist about the future dynamics of SARS-CoV-2’s in the United States, including: will COVID continue to circulate as a seasonal disease like influenza, and will annual vaccinations be required to prevent outbreaks? In response, we present an Agent Based Networked Simulation of COVID-19 transmission to evaluate recurrent future outbreaks of the disease, accounting for contact heterogeneity and waning vaccine-derived and natural immunity. Our model is parameterized with data collected as part of the Berkeley Interpersonal Contact Survey (BICS; Feehan and Mahmud 2021) and is used to simulate time series of confirmed cases of and deaths due to SARS-CoV-2, paying special attention to seasonal forces and waning immunity (Kronfeld-Schor et al. 2021; X. Liu et al. 2021; Nichols et al. 2021). From the BICS ABM model we simulate SARS-CoV-2 dynamics over the 10-year period beginning in 2021 with waning immunity and inclusion of annual booster doses under a variety of transmission scenarios. We find that SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks are likely to occur frequently, and that distribution of booster doses during certain times of the year—notably in the late winter/early spring—may reduce the severity of a wintertime outbreak depending on the seasonal epidemiology of the pathogen.