Age Of Patients Research Articles

Expanded phenotypic spectrum in MODY 5 patients with 17q12 deletion syndrome: experience from an Indian tertiary care hospital.

To study the clinical and genotypic spectrum of patients with HNF-1ß deletions (MODY 5) at a tertiary care hospital. This study included four patients from the Department of Endocrinology at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Srinagar with a strong clinical suspicion of MODY 5. Genetic analysis, including a monogenic gene panel comprising 78 genes associated with MODY and other similar forms of monogenic diabetes, was done. Dosage analysis of HNF 1B by Multiplex Ligand-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) was performed. The mean age of patients was 22.25 years with a male-to-female ratio of 3:1. Associated phenotypic features included neurodevelopmental disorder in all four patients, insulin resistance in two patients (2/4) and alopecia in three patients (3/4). One patient had clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism. All patients had renal malformations, and one patient had a Mullerian anomaly. Family history was present in 1 patient. All patients had pancreatic abnormalities, the most common type being dorsal agenesis of the pancreas (3/4), followed by annular pancreas (1/4). All patients had a genetic deletion of the gene HNF1B on chromosome 17 with a deletion interval of (?_37686431)_(37745059_?), (?_37687281)-(37744884_?), comprising exons 1 to 9. It is imperative to maintain a high index of suspicion for MODY 5 in patients presenting with renal anomalies and diabetes, even in the absence of a family history. Early identification allows for screening family members and ensures a comprehensive approach to identifying and managing other abnormalities in these patients.

Impact of Age on the Occurrence of Vascular Complications in Patients Undergoing Anterior Lumbar Approach Surgery.

Retrospective cohort study. To investigate the impact of age on the incidence of vascular complications in patients undergoing anterior lumbar approach surgery. Anterior approach lumbar spinal surgery may facilitate the use of intervertebral devices with larger endplate coverage and increased lordosis. Despite the advantages of this approach, risks related to vascular injury in older patients have been described in the literature. In total, 751 consecutive patients with degenerative spinal pathology who underwent stand-alone anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF), ALIF combined with posterior fusion and/or instrumentation (360), total disc replacement, or hybrid procedures (ALIF and total disc replacement) were included. Data collected included general patient descriptive data, surgery details, intraoperative vascular injury, and postoperative vascular complications (deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism). Rates of vascular complications were compared across age groups. In addition, the mean age of patients was compared between those with versus without vascular complications. Overall mean age was 50.4 years (range: 20-83 yr). The mean estimated blood loss was 91.3mL (range: 10-2800mL). A total of 15 patients, 2.0%, had vascular complications. There were 10 cases (1.3%) of intraoperative injury to iliac arteries or iliolumbar veins (mean blood loss was 721mL, and all were repaired intraoperatively). Postoperatively, 6 patients (0.8%) developed deep vein thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism (one patient had both). With respect to age, there were no significant differences in rates of intraoperative, postoperative, or combined vascular complication rates across the age group ( P > 0.38). In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in the mean ages of patients with versus those without vascular complications ( P > 0.17). Overall incidence of vascular complications was 2.0%. No relationship between vascular complications and age was demonstrated. These data suggest that increased age may not necessarily be an absolute contraindication for anterior lumbar approach surgery. Level III.

Comparison of microvascular decompression and percutaneous balloon compression efficacy in patients with V2 idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia.

This study aims to compare the efficacy and long-term prognosis of microvascular decompression (MVD) versus percutaneous balloon compression (PBC) in patients with idiopathic V2 (maxillary branch) trigeminal neuralgia. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical information and follow-up data of patients who underwent surgical treatment for V2 idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia from January 2020 to January 2023. A total of 58 patients were included in the MVD group and 99 in the PBC group. All surgeries were performed by two physicians at the same center, with follow-up conducted by a separate, trained researcher. We compared the initial versus 12-month postoperative pain relief rates (scored using the BNI), surgical complications, and described pain relief rates after long-term follow-up in both groups using Kaplan-Meier analysis. The study included a total of 157 patients (MVD 58, PBC 99). The median age of patients in the MVD group was lower than that in the PBC group (58 [51-65] vs. 63 [58-69], p = 0.002). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of pain relief rates initially after surgery and at 12 months (p = 0.521, p = 0.713). However, the MVD group had significantly better outcomes regarding postoperative facial numbness (p < 0.0001), masticatory weakness (p = 0.0017), and other complications (p = 0.04). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that MVD provided a longer duration of pain relief than PBC (p = 0.0323), with most recurrences in both groups occurring within 1-2 years after surgery. There were no significant differences in significant pain relief rates between the two groups initially after surgery and at 12 months. However, the MVD group showed a clear advantage over PBC regarding postoperative facial numbness, masticatory weakness, and other complications; moreover, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that MVD offers a longer duration of pain relief for patients.

Race and Ethnicity and Clinician Linguistic Expressions of Doubt in Hospital Admission Notes

Stigmatizing language in electronic health records (EHRs) can generate or reinforce negative stereotypes about patients from minoritized groups and erode their trust and experience. However, less is known about the use of such language to cast doubt on patient clinical history in hospital settings. To compare the prevalence of language expressing doubt about patient clinical history (eg, experiences and symptoms) in hospital admission notes by patient race and ethnicity. In this cohort study, natural language processing tools were applied to analyze 54 936 admission notes from 1249 clinicians about patients aged 18 years or older at admission and hospitalized at an academic health system in the Northeast US between January 1, 2018, and February 28, 2023. Data were analyzed from September 1, 2022, to July 31, 2023. Patient race and ethnicity (non-Hispanic Black, non-Hispanic White, and racial and ethnic minoritized groups excluding non-Hispanic Black [includes multiple racial and ethnic groups, such as Hispanic and Asian]) as recorded in the EHR based on self-report or registrar determination. Binary indicator for at least 1 term casting doubt on patient clinical history was defined using epistemic stance, a linguistic construct expressing a writer's degree of certainty in information. Terms were manually validated via iterative review of notes by the study team. Among 56 325 admission notes (mean [SD] age of patients, 55.9 [19.0] years; 30 913 notes among female patients [54.9%]; 25 649 notes among non-Hispanic Black patients [45.5%], 26 442 notes among non-Hispanic White patients [46.9%], and 2985 notes among members of racial and ethnic minoritized groups excluding non-Hispanic Black patients [5.3%]), we analyzed 54 936 admission notes that had no missing data. Among all analyzed admission notes, 39 023 notes (71.0%) contained doubt language. Notes written about non-Hispanic Black patients had increased odds of containing at least 1 word or phrase of doubt (adjusted odds ratio, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.14-1.28; P < .001) compared with notes among non-Hispanic White patients. Compared with notes among non-Hispanic White patients, notes written about members of racial and ethnic minoritized groups excluding non-Hispanic Black patients had similar odds of containing at least 1 term of doubt. In this study, language casting doubt on patient clinical history was more likely to be found in notes of non-Hispanic Black patients. These results suggest that with the implementation of policies allowing patients full access to their health records, examining clinical documentation standards may be associated with improved patient experience.

The safety and efficacy of miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy in children.

To assess the use of miniaturized percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini-PCNL) for renal stones in children, as well as its safety and efficacy. Seventy-seven patients with more than 15mm renal stones whose age was less than 15 years were enrolled in this prospective case-controlled study at Al-Ramadi Teaching Hospital, Ar Razi Private Hospital, and Ghazi Al-Hariri Hospital for Surgical Specialties,Anbar and Baghdad, Iraq. The study was conducted from January 2020 to January 2024. The group mentioned above served as group A, and it was compared to the control group (group B), which consisted of 70 adult patients aged 18-60 years. Patients in both groups underwent mini-PCNL. Gender, stone size and location, time of operation, stone-free rate, hemoglobin drop, need for blood transfusion, postoperative fever, associated visceral injury, and need for further interventions such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or flexible ureteroscopy (ESWL or FURS) were compared in both groups. The age of patients in group A ranged from 8 months to 15 years with a mean (4.30 ± 3.16), while in group B ranged from 18 to 60 years with a mean (36.3 ± 12.0), p-value 0.001. There were no statistically significant differences regarding gender distribution, stone size, and location, p-value > 0.05. The stone-free rate was 87.01% for group A and 88.57% for group B, with no statistical difference, p-value 0.773. Hemoglobin drop was 1.096 ± 0.412 for group A and 1.195 ± 0.110 for group B, p-value 0.046. Blood transfusion was needed in one case in each group with no statistical difference, p-value 0.946. The need for ESWL was 3 cases in group A, and 2 cases in group B, with no statistical difference between the two groups, p-value 0.729. The need for FURS was 4 cases in group A and 3 cases in group B, p-value 0.796. Operative time was 30 to 125min in group A and 34 to 129min in group B, p-value 0.941. Postoperative fever was seen in 23 cases in group A and 21 cases in group B, p-value 0.986. Minor liver injury was seen was seen in one case in each group. The use of mini-PCNL for treating renal stones in children is safe and effective as it is associated with a relatively low rate of significant complications and achieves a high stone-free rate.

Association of C- Reactive Protein and Glycated Hemoglobin among Type 2 Diabetic Adults

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex metabolic disorder and is a major global health problem. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that chronic subclinical inflammation is one of the triggering factors in the onset of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Objective: The current study was designed to determine the association of C- reactive protein (CRP) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in T2DM patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out at Department of Laboratory Medicine, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh between March 2017 to February 2018. Total 80 adult patients of newly diagnosed T2DM were included in this study. A detailed clinical history was recorded and relevant physical examinations were done. The complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), fasting blood glucose (FBG) and HbA1c were done accordingly. Data were analyzed and compared by statistical tests. Results: The mean age of the study patients was 45.06±11.08 years with female predominance. More than half (53.7%) of the study patients were in age group 41-59 years. Majority (65%) of the study patients was overweight/obese. It was observed that, mean(±SD) FBG, HbA1c and CRP levels were 8.97±2.41 mmol/L 8.54±2.08% and 8.98±4.85 mg/L respectively. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that CRP has a significant positive correlation with HbA1c (r= 0.457, p&lt; 0.001). Conclusion: This study concluded that CRP has a significant positive association with HbA1c in adult T2DM patients. CRP can be used as a valuable and effective tool for monitoring T2DM.

The Importance of Patient Systemic Health Status in High-Grade Chondrosarcoma Prognosis: A National Multicenter Study

Background: Due to the relatively advanced age and high mortality rate of patients with high-grade chondrosarcoma (CS), it is important to holistically assess patient- and tumor characteristics in multidisciplinary team and shared decision-making with regard to treatment options. While current prognostic models include multiple tumor and treatment characteristics, the only patient characteristics that are commonly included are age and gender. Based on clinical experience, we believe that factors related to patient preoperative systemic health status such as the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score may be equally important prognostic factors for overall survival (OS). Methods: A retrospective nationwide cohort study was identified from four specialized bone sarcoma centers in The Netherlands. Patients with a primary CS grade II, III, and dedifferentiated CS were eligible. Prognostic factors including age at presentation, gender, ASA score, CVD, tobacco use, BMI, histological tumor grade, tumor size, pathological fracture, presentation after unplanned excision, type of surgery and surgical margin were evaluated. The outcome measure was OS at the time of surgery. The Kaplan–Meier methodology was employed to estimate OS; a log-rank test was used to assess the difference in survival. To study the impact of prognostic factors on OS, a multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression model was estimated. Results: In total, 249 patients were eligible for this study, and 89 were deceased at the end of follow-up. In multivariate analysis, histological grade (HR 2.247, 95% CI 1.334–3.783), ASA score III (HR 2.615, 95% CI 1.145–5.976, vs. ASA I), and age per year (HR: 1.025, 95% CI 1.004–1.045) were negatively associated with OS. No association was found between tobacco use, BMI, gender or cardiovascular disease and OS in this cohort. Pathological fracture and tumor size were only associated with OS in univariate analysis. Conclusions: This multicenter study is the first on sarcomas to include ASA in a prognostic model. Results show that ASA score as a proxy for patients’ systemic health status should be included when providing a prognosis for patients with a high-grade primary CS, besides the conventional risk factors such as tumor grade and age. Specifically, severe systemic disease (ASA score III) is a strong negative predictor. Conversely, we found no difference in OS between ASA scores I and II. These findings aid multidisciplinary team and shared decision-making with regard to these complex sarcoma patients that often require life-changing surgeries. Level of Evidence: Prognostic level III. See the instructions for authors for the complete description of levels of evidence.

Classification of Emerging Scoliosis in Congenital Scoliosis After Hemivertebra Resection and Short Segmental Fusion.

Emerging scoliosis (ES) is a rare phenomenon after hemivertebra (HV) resection and short segmental fusion. Since the introduction of the ES, there have been rare in-depth studies. The aim of the present study was to further analyze the characteristics, risk factors, treatment, and prognosis of ES. A retrospective study analyzed patients with congenital scoliosis due to a single HV who underwent posterior correction and short fusion from 2002 to 2022. ES was defined as a Cobb angle ≥20° from its initial value and an apical vertebra located ≥2 levels away from the fusion region. ES patients and non-ES patients were matched at a 1:2 ratio. Both demographics and radiological parameters were compared. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic analysis were used to identify the risk factors of ES. Among 261 patients, 13 patients (5.0%) experienced ES. There were eight females and five males. The mean age of the ES patients at the time of primary surgery was 6.6 ± 3.7 years old (2.0-13.2 years old), with a mean follow-up of 64.2 ± 47.9 months (12-156 months). The ES could be further divided into three types: balance-related ES, complication-related ES, and separated ES. There were three balance-related ESs, six complication-related ESs, and four separated ESs. At the last follow-up, six patients were under observation, six patients underwent brace treatment, and one patient underwent revision surgery. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that the magnitude of postoperative compensatory curve (CC) was an independent risk factor for ES (OR = 1.172, p = 0.014). ES is an extraordinary phenomenon after HV resection and short fusion, and it can be divided into three types. The magnitude of postoperative CC was an independent risk factor for ES. According to the severity of ES, observation, brace, or surgery can be chosen.

New Frontiers in Pediatric Cochlear Implant Surgery - A Single Center Experience with the 3-Dimensional Exoscope.

Since its introduction by Wullstein, the binocular surgical microscope has remained the gold standard of visualization in the field of otology. However, in the last decade, new technology became available in the form of the three-dimensional (3D) exoscope. In this article, we describe our experience thus far in pediatric cochlear implantation with the 3D exoscope. This article is about prospective descriptive study of all exoscopic cochlear implant (CI) cases in a quaternary pediatric CI center performed with the Vitom® 3D system. All pediatric patients (age <18) were included without exclusion criteria, and our experience and conversion to microscope rates are reported. Since the introduction of the exoscope to our unit, we have successfully performed 68 cases, of which 53 were bilateral cochlear implantations. The age of the patient varied between 10 months and 209 months (average: 64 months; median 46.5 months). There were a total of 121 implantations (96 primary implantations, 24 revision implantations). There were 2 conversions to the traditional microscopic technique. The exoscope provides a 3D high-definition (4K) images in CI surgery. There is limited data regarding its use, and we identified a number of advantages including efficiency, occupational health, theater utilization, surgical training, and safety. Although there are areas still for improvement, such as loss of signal-to-noise ratio at higher magnification, manual focus, and lack of electromagnetic articulation in the holding arm, we have found it to be a useful addition to the surgical armamentarium within pediatric cochlear implantation.

Three Days of Oral Azithromycin Versus Five Days of Oral Clarithromycin in the Treatment of Campylobacter Enterocolitis in Children: A Prospective Study.

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and tolerability of azithromycin and clarithromycin in pediatric Campylobacter enterocolitis. A prospective, randomized, controlled trial was conducted at a single center. Patients with confirmed Campylobacter enterocolitis were randomly assigned to receive either a 3-day course of azithromycin or a 5-day course of clarithromycin. Symptoms were monitored daily, and changes in laboratory markers (WBC counts, CRP levels, and stool calprotectin) were compared. A total of 29 pediatric patients were included, with 14 patients in the azithromycin group and 15 patients in the clarithromycin group. The median age of patients in the azithromycin group was 10.0 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.0-13.0), and in the clarithromycin group, the median age was 9.0 years (IQR: 7.0-13.0) (p = 0.793). The median time to clinical resolution was 3.0 days (IQR: 2.0-3.0) in the azithromycin group and 2.0 days (IQR: 2.0-3.0) in the clarithromycin group (p = 0.132). There were no significant differences in the duration of individual symptoms, including fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The length of hospital stay was also similar, with a median stay of 4 days (IQR: 3.0-5.0) in both groups (p = 0.394). Both antibiotics were well-tolerated, with no significant adverse events or treatment discontinuation reported. Clarithromycin was found to be as effective as azithromycin in treating pediatric Campylobacter enterocolitis, with similar clinical outcomes and improvements in laboratory markers.

5-Hydroxyindoleacetic acid as a biomarker for revealing perforation in acute appendicitis

BackgroundThe present study investigated the level of 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in perforated and nonperforated appendicitis patients. This issue is important for timely diagnosis of acute appendicitis complications and making decision about the surgical plan and type of incision.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted on patients with acute appendicitis. 5-HIAA levels were measured in urine spot sample of every patient before the surgery. The patients were finally included based on result of pathology for presence of appendicitis or not and sorted by direct surgical detection for exist of perforation or not. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic accuracy of 5-HIAA were investigated. The data were statistically analyzed by SPSS v.27.ResultsA total of 150 patients were included in two groups as 40 patients in the perforated appendicitis group and 110 patients in the noncomplicated acute appendicitis group. The average age of patients in the perforated appendicitis group was 28.8 ± 6.07 years, and that of patients in the acute appendicitis group was 29.6 ± 6.96 years. 94 patients (63%) were male, and 56 (37%) were female. No significant difference was observed in terms of age or sex between the two groups. The difference in the 5-HIAA concentration between the acute appendicitis group (0.3 ± 0.04 mg/dl) and the perforated appendicitis group (0.5 ± 0.03 mg/dl) was significant (P < 0.001). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy were 82%, 62%, 75%, 77%, and 88% respectively.ConclusionThis study shows that the 5-HIAA concentration in patients with perforated appendicitis can potentially increased significantly more than that in patients in the early stages of acute appendicitis. further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to prove the present results.

Pattern of Psychoactive Substance Use in Sierra Leone: A Descriptive Retrospective Study

Background Substance use, and pattern of consumption varies across population and may, within a particular population, show temporal variations in accordance with changing fads. Understanding the pattern of substance use in a population is key to any programme of demand reduction. Thus, we studied a consecutive series of patients with substance use disorders in our facility, aiming to determine the patient profile and pattern of substance use. Methods Hospital’s digital register was consulted and data of patients who were seen over a 16-months period, and who had diagnosis of ‘alcohol and substance use disorder’ were retrieved and analyzed. Results Seven hundred and nineteen patients were treated for substance use disorder over a 16-months period. Age of patients ranged from 16 to 69 years with mean age (SD) of 28.7(9.2) years. Majority were males (91%), single (87%) and had been to secondary or tertiary school with or without graduation. Fifty nine percent (421/719) of the patients admitted being on ‘Kush’, 49% on alcohol, 47% on cannabis, 11% on tramadol and 5.6% on cocaine. About 71% of the patients were poly-substance users while 29 percent were on one agent. Alcohol, ‘Kush’ and cannabis were the most common preferences of those who use more than one agent. Conclusions Substance use disorder in Freetown was most prevalent in young, adult, secondary school educated males. ‘Kush’ was the most common agent of abuse and frequency of polysubstance use is high. Understanding the factors responsible for low substance use among females in the population might point to some preventive control measures.

De-escalation of Radiation Therapy in the Treatment Plan of Patients with Stage I-IIV Breast Cancer after Subcutaneous/Skin-Sparing Mastectomies with Immediate Reconstruction

Introduction. Indications for radiation therapy after mastectomies with/without reconstruction at T1­2N0­1M0 remain unclear; treatment standards contain references to the possible administration of radiation therapy for factors that increase breast cancer recurrence. Materials and methods. A retrospective single­center, non­randomized study enrolled 984 breast cancer patients treated at P.A. Gertsen Moscow Cancer Research Institute from 2014 to 2022. Patients were divided into 2 groups: a radiotherapy group and a non­radiotherapy group. Results and discussion. The paper presents an analysis of patients’ age, the histological structure of the tumor, immunohistochemical characteristics, tumor grade, multicentricity, presence of lymphovascular invasion, tumor cells, the state of R1 and R0 margins, and the tumor stage at risk of recurrence. Overall survival in the recurrence group accounted for 95.1%, in the non­recurrence group – 98.4%. In the radiotherapy group (group I), the overall survival comprised 98.4%; metastases were diagnosed in 4.9% of cases. In thenon­radiotherapy group (group II), the overall survival amounted to 98.2%; metastases were revealed in 5.9% of cases. Conclusion. Univariate analysis in the study groups showed that radiation therapy reduced the risk of relapse by 3.5%. In case of positive R1 margin, radiotherapy is recommended, which was confirmed in our study, the difference accounted for 14.5%, and in the presence of R1, radiotherapy is claimed to be necessary in the postoperative period. When analyzing the stage of breast cancer and the risk of recurrence, the statistical difference was revealed only at stage IIA (T1N1M0); radiation therapy reduced the risk of breast cancer recurrence. The statistical difference in groups I and II was detected at Grade 2 tumor, Ki­67 level less than 50%, presence of tumor embolism and age of patients under 40 years. Radiation therapy after subcutaneous/skin­sparing mastectomy reduces the recurrence risk by 3.2%; however, the overall survival in group I and group II accounted for 98.4 and 98.2%, respectively; the difference is not statistically significant. In our study, the criteria for prescribing radiation therapy in the postoperative period include: young age of the patients, R1 resection margin, luminal/non­luminal HER2 positive type, cN1, presence of tumor embolism.

Efficacy and safety of immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy in patients with ES-SCLC: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of RCTs and RWSs.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors in the treatment of extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC), we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world studies (RWS). By scanning PubMed, Web of science, Embase, and other relevant clinical information public databases, nine RCTs and eight RWSs involving 5205 patients were included in the study. We directly compared the differences between chemotherapy and PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors plus chemotherapy, and determined the optimal treatment strategy through network meta-analysis (NMA). Compared to chemotherapy, the addition of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors significantly improves the overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR) in SCLC patients. Regarding safety, both RCTs and RWSs indicated no significant difference in grade 3-4 adverse events between chemotherapy and chemoimmunotherapy. NMA showed serplulimab plus chemotherapy (Serp_Chemo) appears to provide the best OS, PFS, and ORR benefit, while nivolumab plus chemotherapy shows higher toxicity than other regimens. In subgroup analysis, for elderly patients (age ≥65) and non-elderly (age <65) patients, the most promising quality regimens for achieving better OS extension are atezolizumab plus chemotherapy (Atez_Chemo) and Serp_Chemo, respectively. For patients with PD-L1 ≥ 1% and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) > upper limit of normal (ULN), there is no apparent OS benefit from immune therapy. In ES-SCLC treatment, adding PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors to standard chemotherapy improves OS, PFS, and ORR, with Serp_Chemo shows the most promise. Atez_Chemo and Serp_Chemo provided better survival for elderly and non-elderly patients, respectively.

Prediction of major intravascular hemolysis during pulsed electric field ablation of atrial fibrillation using a pentaspline catheter.

Pulsed electric field (PEF) has emerged as a promising energy source for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data regarding the in-vivo effect of PEF energy on erythrocytes during AF ablation procedures are scarce. This study aimed to quantify the impact of PEF energy on erythrocyte damage during AF ablation by assessing specific hemolytic biomarkers. A total of 60 patients (age: 68 years, males: 72%, serum creatinine: 91 µmol/L) with AF underwent catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered by a multipolar pentaspline Farawave catheter (Farapulse, Boston Scientific, Inc.). Ablation beyond pulmonary vein isolation was performed at the operator's discretion. Peripheral venous blood was sampled for assessing the plasma levels of free hemoglobin (fHb), direct (conjugated) bilirubin, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatinine before, immediately after the ablation, and on the next day. Following the PEF ablation with duration of [median (interquartile range)] 75 (58, 95) min, with 74 (52, 92) applications and PVI only in 27% of patients, fHb, LDH, and direct bilirubin significantly increased, from 40 (18, 65) to 493 (327, 848) mg/L, from 3.1 (2.6, 3.6) to 6.8 (5.0, 7.9) µkat/L, and from 12 (9, 17) to 28 (16, 44) µmol/L, respectively (all p < .0001). A strong linear correlation was found between the peak fHb and the number of PEF applications (R = 0.81, p < .001). The major hemolysis (defined as fHb >500 mg/L) was predicted by the number of PEF applications with the corresponding area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.934. The optimum cut-off value of >74 PEF applications predicted the major hemolysis with 89% sensitivity and 87% specificity. Catheter ablation of AF using PEF energy delivered from a pentaspline catheter is associated with significant intravascular hemolysis. More than 74 PEF applications frequently resulted in major hemolysis. However, the critical amount of PEF energy that may cause kidney injury in susceptible patients remains to be investigated.

Dispensing antibiotics without a prescription in Various pharmacies

Background: An important factor that leads to improper antibiotic use and an increase in antibacterial resistance is the dispensing of medicines over-the-counter. Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the beliefs and behaviors of medical staff regarding the non-prescription dispensing of antibiotics. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study that used a questionnaire survey with 107 medical staff members from various places in Iraq between November 11, 2020, and May 8, 2021. Results: A total of 107 participants filled out the form and took part in the study. The age of participants ranged from 68% (21–25 years old) to 20% (26–35 years old), 4% (18–20 years), 4% (36–45 years old), 3% (above 55 years old), and 1% (46–55). The most prevalent condition treated with antibiotics without a doctor's prescription is urinary tract infection (21.6%), which was followed by otitis media (17.3%), sore throat (14.8%), skin infection (12.7%), fever (12%), cough (11%), runny nose (4.9%), and other conditions (5.7%). Cold and flu are the most infections that did not respond to antibiotics (30.1%) followed by runny nose (23.9%), sore throat (15.4%), bronchitis (10.4%), cough (10%), and other (10%) while the most frequently dispensed antibiotics was amoxicillin followed by azithromycin, amoxicillin plus clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin, cephalexin, clindamycin, and meropenem. About 56.6% of patients requested or received antibiotics for obvious infections. About 29.25% requested antibiotics for family members while 14.15% requested them for no reason. The most common age of patients who request an antibiotic was young people (46.3%), elderly (38.3%) and children (15.4%). Whether consulting a doctor before dispensing antibiotics, participants answered yes (56%) and no (44%). In conclusion, the incidence of using antibiotics without prescription was high for skin infections, otitis media, sore throats, and urinary tract infection.

Therapeutic and Diagnostic Tactics for Metastases to the Lymph Nodes of the Neck without an Identified Primary Focus

Introduction. Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma from an unknown primary focus accounts for less than 5 % of malignant tumors in the head and neck. Improving the methods of diagnosis can reduce the incidence of this pathology. Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis of the results of diagnosis and treatment of 59 patients with metastasis to the lymph nodes of the neck without an identified primary focus was performed. The proportion of male patients was 86 % (51/59), female — 14 % (8/59). The average age of patients is 61 years. Squamous cell carcinoma prevailed — 79 % (47/59). Results. Metastatically affected lymph nodes were localized in 92 % of cases at levels II and III. The proportion of patients with stages N2, N3 prevailed — 55 % (abs. 26), 32 % (abs. 15), respectively. Overexpression of the P­16 protein in metastatically affected lymph nodes was detected in 70 %, PD­L1 in 48 %, and Epstein­Barr virus (EBV) in 6 %. Ipsilateral diagnostic palatine tonsillectomy of an apparently unchanged tonsil was performed in 15 % (9/59) of cases, revealing the primary site in one instance. Of the special treatment methods, complex and combined treatment prevailed — 55 % (abs. 26). Radiation therapy in an independent version was performed by 48 % of patients, while 76 % received the full course (abs. 16). Combined treatment (a course of Radiation therapy followed by chemotherapy) — in 7 % (abs. 3) 20 % of patients received polychemotherapy. Palliative immunotherapy (pembrolizumab 200 mg IV — 5 courses) was given to 1 patient. The average life expectancy was higher with complex treatment — it was 60 months (95 % CI 43.5–76.4), the median survival is 60 months. Discussion. The main methods of treatment of patients with metastases of squamous cell carcinoma without were radiation therapy in an independent version, as well as complex treatment. Ipsilateral diagnostic palatine tonsillectomy of an apparently unchanged tonsil was performed in 15 % (abs. 9), and allowed to identify the primary focus in 1 case.Conclusion. Metastasis to the lymph nodes of the neck without remains an urgent interdisciplinary problem. Prospective multicenter studies are required to improve and optimize the algorithms for diagnosis and treatment of these patients.

Body mass index and sarcopenia and mortality risk among older hypertensive outpatients; the Nambu Cohort Study.

Maintaining ideal body weight and muscle strength through lifestyle modification is essential for improving activities of daily living (ADL) and life expectancy in hypertensive patients. The effect of weight reduction in older patients with hypertension, however, is controversial. We evaluated the prognostic significance of body mass index (BMI) and handgrip strength (HG) in older patients with hypertension. Patients were stratified by the combination of BMI and HG. COX regression analysis was used to assess the mortality risk. A total of 563 patients (age 77 [71-84] years, 50% male, 40% frailty) were followed for a median duration of 41 (34-43) months. In total, 59 deaths occurred during the follow-up period. Validation of mortality by BMI level revealed that patients with BMI < 22 kg/m2 were likely to have higher mortality risk. Low HG, however, was associated with a 3.7-fold increased mortality risk. The risk of all-cause mortality using BMI combined with HG (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]) was as follows: (1) Normal HG + 22 kg/m2 ≤ BMI, reference; (2) Normal HG + BMI < 22 kg/m2, 2.39 (0.12-16.46); (3) Low HG + 22 kg/m2 ≤ BMI, 4.01 (1.42-14.38); and (4) Low HG + BMI < 22 kg/m2, 4.55 (1.33-18.13). These findings demonstrate that weight reduction may deteriorate the mortality risk in older patients with hypertension, and new lifestyle modification strategies for improving ADL, quality of life, and prognosis are warranted for older patients with hypertension. We assessed the association between BMI, handgrip strength, and risk of all-cause mortality to evaluate the validity of weight reduction in older patients with hypertension.

Exploration of barriers to treatment for patients with eating disorders in Chile

BackgroundEating disorders (EDs) are associated with high morbidity and mortality, affecting predominantly young people and women. A delay in starting treatment is associated with chronic and more severe clinical courses; however, evidence on barriers and facilitators of access to care in Latin America is scarce. We aimed to identify barriers and facilitators of ED treatment in Chile from the perspective of patients, relatives, and health professionals.MethodsQualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with patients, their relatives, and health professionals. Participants were recruited from two ED centers in Santiago, Chile (one public and one private). Analysis was mainly based on Grounded Theory, using MAXQDA software.Results40 interviews were conducted (n = 22 patients, 10 relatives, and 8 health professionals). The mean age of patients was 21.8 years, while the mean duration of untreated ED was 91.4 months (median 70 months). Five categories emerged with intersections between them: patient (P), family and social environment (FSE), health professionals (HP), healthcare system (HCS), and social and cultural context (SCC). Relevant barriers appeared within these categories and their intersections, highlighting a lack of professional knowledge or expertise, cultural ignorance or misinformation regarding EDs, and patient’s ego-syntonic behaviors. The main facilitators were patients’ and relatives’ psychoeducation, recognition of symptoms by family members, and parents taking the initiative to seek treatment.ConclusionsThis study provides information regarding access to treatment for patients living with EDs in Chile. A practical public health approach should consider the multi-causality of delay in treatment and promoting early interventions.Plain English SummaryEating disorders (EDs) may severely affect the daily functioning of people enduring them. A delay in starting treatment is associated with a disease that is more difficult to treat. To our knowledge, there are no published studies carried out in Latin America exploring factors influencing treatment initiation in EDs patients. This study aimed to identify facilitators of and barriers to treating patients with EDs in Chile. We interviewed patients (n = 22), their relatives (n = 10), and health professionals (n = 8) from a private and a public center in Santiago, Chile. Our analysis showed that the main barriers to starting treatment were the lack of professional knowledge in ED, the monetary cost of illness, and cultural misinformation. Facilitators were related to the role of the family in recognizing and addressing the disease while being educated in EDs by professionals. This study helps to provide data about treatment access in developing countries. While facilitators and barriers were similar to others reported in the literature, the untreated ED’s duration was longer. It is essential to address these barriers to provide access to treatment more efficiently and prevent severe and enduring forms of disease.

Distal radius fractures and distal ulna fractures among adults in a southern China county during the 11-year-period 2010 to 2020.

Most distal radius fractures are associated with distal ulnar fractures. However, there is still a lack of consensus on the incidence of different types of distal ulnar fractures among adults in China. Therefore, we analyzed the incidence of distal radial fractures with and without associated distal ulnar fractures among adults in a southern China county from 2010 to 2020. Registry data of 2333 patients (2351 sides) with a distal radius fracture from 2010 to 2020 underwent evaluation, encompassing parameters such as age, sex, distal radius fracture classification, fracture side, and distal ulnar fracture classification. Distal radial fractures were classified according to the AO/OTA classification. Distal ulnar fractures were examined using the Q-modifier classification. 1719 females (73.68%) and 614 males (26.32%) were included in the study. Compared to men, the incidence of distal radial fractures accompanying distal ulnar fractures in women was approximately 2.8 times higher. Additionally, 49.81% of distal radius fractures were associated with fractures of the distal ulna, while 46.44% were associated with fractures of the ulnar styloid. The most common fracture type was that of the ulnar styloid Q1 (93.73%). The mean age of female patients was 61.71 ± 12.13, while male patients had an average age of 50.63 ± 14.86. The Q1 type was the most common type of distal ulnar fracture. We also found that more females (age range: 50 years or older) had type C distal radius fractures compared to males. However, type B fractures were observed more frequently in males than in females (range: 18-49 years). Osteoporosis was believed to be the main cause of fractures in women aged >50 years old. Moreover, the peak incidence of radius fractures in males was lower than in females in different age groups.