Test Group Research Articles

Development of a Machine‐Learning Model for Diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer from Serum Samples Analyzed by Thermal Liquid Biopsy

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses a considerable diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to the lack of specific biomarkers and late diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for improving prognosis, but current techniques are insufficient. An innovative approach based on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of blood serum samples, thermal liquid biopsy (TLB), combined with machine‐learning (ML) analysis, may offer a more efficient method for diagnosing PDAC. Serum samples from a cohort of 212 PDAC patients and 184 healthy controls are studied. DSC thermograms are analyzed using ML models. The generated models are built applying algorithms based on penalized regression, resampling, categorization, cross validation, and variable selection. The ML‐based model demonstrates outstanding ability to discriminate between PDAC patients and control subjects, with a sensitivity of 90% and an area under the ROC receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.83 in the training and test groups. Application of the model to an independent validation cohort of 113 PDAC patients confirms its robustness and utility as a diagnosis tool. The application of ML to serum TLB data emerges as a promising methodology for early diagnosis, representing a significant advance for detecting and managing PDAC, envisaging a minimally invasive and more efficient methodology for identifying biomarkers.

Reliability of the Revised Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire-Turkish in patients with neck pain: a cross-validation study

Background & Objectives: The Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) measures the level of knowledge of patients and healthcare professionals regarding the neurophysiology of pain. The revised Turkish (Tr) version has low reliability for patients with chronic spinal pain. In this study, we investigated the reliability of the Revised NPQ-Tr in patients with neck pain. Methodology: The Revised NPQ-Tr was administered to 219 participants suffering from neck pain for at least 3 months, who were between the ages of 25 and 60 y and native Turkish speakers. Correct responses were awarded one point, while undecided or incorrectly marked responses were awarded 0 points. In order to analyse the validity of the test, the high-scoring and low-scoring groups were compared. Using the percentage of correct responses in the high and low scoring groups, we calculated the difficulty of the item (P-value) and the discrimination power of the item (r). Results: Responses to the questionnaire were highly correlated. Items 1 and 2 had high discrimination power (r > 0.40), and items 3 and 5 had very good item quality (0.30 < r < 0.39). Among the items ranked between 1-7 and 9-12 in terms of difficulty of the item and discrimination power, only item 8 was found to be a difficult yet discriminating item (P < 0.60). According to Cronbach's alpha (0.81) and Kuder-Richardson-20 (0.81) coefficients, the questionnaire had a high internal consistency and reliability, and a split-half correlation coefficient (0.802) determined its internal consistency and reliability. Conclusion: We conclude that the Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire-Turkish can be used on neck pain, and it is reliable and highly valid. Keywords: Chronic Pain, neck pain, pain knowledge, pain education, pain beliefs, Turkish language, reliability, validity. Citation: Yasarer O, Sari Z, Copuroglu OB, Eker TA, Aydogdu O. Reliability of the Revised Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire-Turkish in patients with neck pain: a cross-validation study. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(5):859−865; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i5.2552 Received: August 04, 2024; Reviewed: August 14, 2024; Accepted: August 17, 2024

Tea Tree Oil Effect on Dimensional Change and Detail Reproduction of Addition Silicon Impression Material

Objective: Impression materials are thought to be the one of the primary sources of cross infection between patients and dentists. However, it was discovered that disinfection of the impression is not conducted routinely in ordinary dental treatment. Disinfection of addition silicon impression, whether by immersion or spray should not produce dimensional or detail errors. The purpose of this study was to examine the immersion of addition silicon impression material in tea tree oil and its influence on dimensional stability and detail reproduction of the addition silicon imprint material. Materials and Methods: This study employed a total of 120 heavy- and light-body addition silicon impression material specimens. The specimens were randomly sorted and immersed into six groups. These test groups where four concentrations of TTO (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%), and the other two groups were distilled water (negative control) and 2% glutaraldehyde (positive control). All specimens were immersed for 10 minutes in the testing solutions. Each of the six groups had 20 specimens separated into two subgroups. Results: There were no statistically significant differences in linear dimensional changes and detail reproduction among all test groups. Conclusion: The addition silicon impression material may be safely submerged in TTO for 10 minutes to disinfect it without impairing its dimensional correctness or detail replication of the impression.

Periodontal regenerative therapy using recombinant human fibroblast growth factor (rhFGF)-2 in combination with carbonate apatite granules or rhFGF-2 alone: 12-month randomized controlled trial.

This randomized controlled trial compared the outcomes of recombinant human fibroblast growth factor (rhFGF)-2 plus carbonate apatite (CO3Ap) granules with rhFGF-2 alone in the treatment of intrabony periodontal defects. Patients with Stage III Grade B/C periodontitis who had completed initial periodontal therapy and had intrabony defects with a depth of ≥ 3mm were included. Defects were treated solely with rhFGF-2 (control) or rhFGF-2 plus CO3Ap (test). Periodontal parameters and a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) were assessed at baseline, at 6, 9 and 12 months postoperatively. The primary outcome was the change in clinical attachment level (CAL) from baseline to 12 months postoperatively. Using the Friedman test with Dunn's post-test, intragroup data were compared over time, and Mann-Whitney U test was used to assess intergroup data at each time point. Forty-eight sites in 38 patients were subjected to analysis. At 12 months postoperatively, CAL in both groups showed a significant improvement from baseline (p < 0.001). CAL gain was 3.4 ± 1.3mm in the test group and 3.2 ± 1.2mm in the control group, with no significant intergroup difference (p = 0.567). Radiographic bone fill in the test group (67.2%) was significantly greater than in the control group (32.4%) (p < 0.001). PROM scores showed no difference between groups. At 12 months, the outcomes including CAL gain and PROM showed no significant differences between groups, although the combination treatment enhanced radiographic bone fill. The use of rhFGF-2 (with/without CO3Ap) could lead to significant improvement in clinical parameters in the treatment of intrabony periodontal defects. The benefit of adding CO3Ap to rhFGF-2 therapy needs further evaluation. The University Hospital Medical Information Network-Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) : UMIN000040783.

Ameliorative Effect of Curcuma longa Ethanolic Extract on the Histology, Hepatic Glycogen Content and Some Biochemical Parameters of the Liver in Streptozotocin-Induced Hyperglycemic Wistar Rats

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a life threatening disease that requires immediate medical treatment. Numerous medicinal plants have been known for their anti-diabetic effects and Curcuma longa (turmeric) is one of them. This attribute is possible due to the pharmacological properties of its bio-constituents. In this study, the ameliorative potential of ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa was investigated on the liver of hyperglycemic adult Wistar rats. The objectives were to determine its effects on liver histology, hepatic glycogen content and some liver biochemical parameters. Methods: Forty (40) rats weighing between 120-180g were used for the research. Sixteen (16) rats were used for its acute toxicity study, while twenty-four (24) rats were grouped into four. The groups were labelled A to D and contained six rats each. Group A (normal control) rats were given food pellets and distilled water only. Group B (diabetic control) rats were given 65mg/kg BW of streptozotocin IP. Group C served as the standard group and was given 65mg/kg of streptozotocin IP + 250mg/kg of metformin IP, while Group D (test group) rats were given 65mg/kg BW of streptozotocin IP + 500mg/kg of Curcuma longa extract. Curcuma longa extract was administered through the oral route with the aid of an oral gavage. The administration lasted for twenty-eight (28) days, after which the rats were made to fast overnight with access to only water. The rats were then anaesthetized and whole blood obtained through cardiac puncture for biochemical analysis. Liver tissue was obtained for histological and glycogen content analyses. Results: The results showed severe destruction of hepatocytes with widely spread cytoplasmic vacuolation, loss of hepatic lobules and hepatic inflammation in the diabetic group, whereas it showed prominent nuclei, hepatocytes and distinct sinusoidal spaces in the normal control group. The metformin group showed an intact architecture of the liver tissue with indicating regeneration in the liver, while the Curcuma longa extract group showed a preserved liver cytoarchitecture. There was a significant decrease (p&lt;0.05) in the fasting blood glucose level and liver enzyme activities in the standard and test groups compared to the diabetic group (p&lt;0.05). There was also improvement in glycogen content of the standard and test groups in comparison with the diabetic group (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Curcuma longa possesses hepato-protective properties and a strong anti-diabetic potential, therefore it can be considered as an alternative drug in the management of diabetes mellitus and its complications.

Aktivitas Penghambatan Enzim α-Amilase Ekstrak Etanol dan Fraksi Buah Belimbing Wuluh (Averrhoa bilimbi L.)

The enzyme α-amylase is one of the enzymes that plays a role in the process of degrading starch into maltose and glucose. Organic compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids are inhibitors of α-amylase. The star fruit plant (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) has α-amylase enzyme inhibition activity and has the potential to be used in the therapy of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study aims to determine whether ethanol extract and the fraction of star fruit (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) have α-amylase enzyme inhibition activity, inhibition against α-amylase enzyme and better inhibition activity. The test of α-amylase enzyme inhibition activity was carried out using 3 test groups, namely negative control, positive control (acarbose) and samples (ethanol extract and star fruit fraction) with concentrations of 12.5 ppm, 25 ppm, 50 ppm, 100 ppm and 200 ppm. The results of testing the inhibitory activity of α-amylase enzyme of ethanol extract and the fraction of star fruit (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) obtained IC50 values of 5.581 μg/mL, 76.725 μg/mL, 43.152 μg/mL and 55.447 μg/mL, respectively. Based on these results, it can be concluded that the ethanol extract of star fruit (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) at a concentration of 200 ppm has a very strong activity in inhibiting the α-amylase enzyme with an inhibition percentage of 85.217% and an IC50 value of 5.581 μg/mL.

Effects of D3K2 With Periodontal Therapy in Diabetes Mellitus and Stage I-II Periodontitis Patients.

The aim of this study is to look into the clinical and biochemical outcomes of D3K2 supplementation in addition to nonsurgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) for patients suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontitis. Thirty-eight participants with DM and periodontitis were randomized into two different groups. The test group provided NSPT with D3K2 whereas the control group received NSPT with placebo. Clinical periodontal parameters were recorded and serum and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were sampled at baseline and at the third and the sixth months after treatment. Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), 25(OH)D3, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) values were determined in blood samples. GCF and serum interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-10 levels were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All clinical periodontal parameters were importantly decreased at the third and sixth months after treatment compared to baseline in both groups. At the sixth month, 25(OH)D3 levels in the test group were observed to be statistically significantly higher than in the control group (p = 0.02). Serum IL-1β showed a statistically significant decrease at the sixth month compared to baseline and the third month in control group. According to this study, there is limited additional benefit of D3K2 given with NSPT in individuals with DM and periodontitis.

Effect of Implant Analog Design and Additively Manufactured Casts' Printing Layer Thickness on the Linear and Angular Accuracy of Analogs for Direct Digital Workflow: An In Vitro Study.

To evaluate how implant analog design and printing layer thickness affect the linear and angular accuracy of implant analogs in additively manufactured casts, comparing with conventional implant analogs in stone casts. A reference cobalt chromium mandibular model with a single implant was digitized with an industrial optical scanner and scan bodies compatible with a pressure/friction fit (S) or a screw-retained (N) implant analog for direct digital workflow. These scans were used to fabricate casts with 50 μm (S-50 and N-50) and 100 μm (S-100 and N-100) layer thickness (n&#61;10). Ten stone casts were made after single-step closed-tray polyvinylsiloxane impressions of the model (CNV). All casts were digitized with the same metal scan body and scanner used to digitize the master model, and these scans were superimposed over the scan of the master model to measure the linear (x, y, and z-axes) and angular (XY and YZ planes) deviations (Geomagic Control X). The precision of measured deviations was defined with the average deviation values. Generalized linear model analysis was used to compare the deviations within implant analogs for direct digital workflow, while 1-way analysis of variance and Dunnett's test were used to compare these analogs and conventional analogs (α &#61; .05) Results. The analog design affected the linear deviations (y-axis), while the interaction between the analog design and the layer thickness, and the analog design affected the angular deviations (XY plane, P ≤ .030). S analogs had lower linear and angular deviations than N analogs, and S-50 led to lower angular deviations than N-50 (P ≤ .030). CNV led to higher linear accuracy (y-axis) than N-50, N-100, and S-100 and led to lower angular deviations than all test groups (XY plane) (P ≤ .025). The analogs in S-50 casts had positional trueness similar to or higher than those in other test groups and their accuracy was mostly similar to those in CNV casts. Implant analogs for direct digital workflow deviated more towards lingual and gingival, and conventional analogs deviated more towards buccal, occlusal, and distal. All analogs had a tendency to tilt towards lingual and distal.

Evaluation and Comparison of the Effect of Three Dental Luting Cements on Mineralized Bone Derived from Dental Pulp Stem Cells: An In Vitro Study.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of zinc phosphate (ZnP) cement, glass ionomer cement (GIC), and nano-integrated bio-ceramic (NIB) cement on mineralization when placed in contact with bone tissue-forming cells. Materials and Methods: ZnP cement, GIC, and NIB cement were divided into direct and indirect groups. A total of 72 cement pellets (24 pellets of each test sample) of 3 × 1 mm (width × height) were prepared using polytetrafluoroethylene molds. A total of 3 sample groups were demarcated using 96- cell well culture plates. In the control group, 24 wells were filled with mineralized osteoblasts and 1 µL of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). In test group 1, to show a direct effect, 36 samples were plated with mineralized osteoblasts and 1 µL GCF for 24 h; the cells were directly exposed to cement pellets. A total of 36 samples were immersed in GCF for 24 h; later the supernatant was transferred to the mineralized osteoblasts to demonstrate an indirect effect in test group 2. To assess the mineralization, osteoblasts were stained with alizarin red and later observed under an inverted phase-contrast microscope. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences. An independent t-test compared the direct and indirect effects of the ZnP cement, GIC, NIB cement, and control groups on the mineralization of osteoblasts derived from hDPCs. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed between the ZnP cement, GIC, and NIB cement groups (p < 0.05). ZnP cement exhibited a moderate, NIB cement the least harmful effect, and GIC showed the most harmful effect on the mineralization of osteoblast cells. Conclusions: The biocompatibility of dental luting cements is an important aspect that clinicians should consider during their selection. Nano-integrated bio-ceramic cement showed the least negative effect on the mineralization of osteoblast cells which is beneficial for the cementation of cement-retained implant prostheses. However, further studies are needed to evaluate osteoblast and osteoclast activity in vivo.

The effect of guided group reflection on the ability and convenience of breaking bad news in pre-hospital emergency staff

BackgroundBad news refers to any information that create negative changes in a person’s understanding or expectations of in present and future. Breaking Bad News (BBN) is a stressful task that may have disturbing effects on the professional performance and general health of the medical staff. Pre-hospital emergency staff often needs to deliver bad news to the patient or his family. This study was conducted to determine the effect of guided group reflection training on the ability and comfort of BBN in pre-hospital emergency staff.MethodsThis quasi-experimental study was conducted on 95 staff of the pre-hospital emergency, in the test and the control groups. For the test group, a 4-hour training workshop on BBN was held, and then a group was formed in virtual space to discuss and exchange opinions about the scenarios of BBN and reflecting on it. Data collection tools were SPIKES Questionnaire and the Visual Analogue Mood Scale. The data were analyzed with SPSS V.18.ResultsThe mean score of the ability to BBN after the intervention was 44.01 ± 6.21 in the test group and 31.40 ± 4.51 in the control group, and a significant difference was found using the independent t-test (P = 0.0001). Besides, the mean scores of the convenience of BBN in post-test was 5.52 ± 1.64 in the test group and 3.50 ± 1.28 in the control group using the independent t-test with a significant difference (P = 0.0001).ConclusionAccording to the findings, training in guided group reflection improved the ability to BBN and its convenience in pre-hospital emergency staff. Therefore, it is suggested the use of this method in training for health care providers. Relating to BBN.

Prediction of surgical benefit in gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis treated with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

The objective is to evaluate whether gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis can benefit from surgery through a comprehensive analysis of different clinical factors and perioperative treatment methods. A total of 135 gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastasis were treated with Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Patients were divided into either training group (without surgery, n = 90) or test group (with surgery, n = 45). A nomogram was constructed based on significant prognostic factors. The patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups using a nomogram. Overall survival were then compared according to whether surgery was performed in both groups. Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), complications, conversion chemotherapy, and postoperative chemotherapy were significantly associated with overall survival (p < 0.05). A nomogram was constructed using the above four factors and validated using the test set. The area under the curve (AUC) of the model was 0.752 (95% CI 0.525-978). In the group that did not undergo surgery, the median survival times for the high-risk and low-risk groups were 7 and 11months, respectively. In the surgery group, the median survival times for the high-risk and low-risk groups were 11 and 19months, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.0001). The four-factor nomogram can accurately predict high-risk and low-risk populations. Our findings suggest that cytoreductive surgery combined with HIPEC can improve the survival time of patients in both groups.

The importance of urine protein-to-creatinine ratio in elderly patients receiving angiogenesis inhibitors

BackgroundPatients receiving angiogenesis inhibitor treatment require attention regarding proteinuria. Monitoring proteinuria using the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) is critical. However, the utility of the UPCR for administering angiogenesis inhibitors to elderly patients remains unclear.ObjectivesWe retrospectively examined whether UPCR measurements are associated with improved efficacy and safety of angiogenesis inhibitors in elderly patients.MethodsThis study included patients who experienced grade 2 or higher proteinuria at least once after the administration of angiogenesis inhibitors. The UPCR values at which bevacizumab and ramucirumab could be administered were defined to be less than 3.5 and 2.0, respectively. The actual total dose/planned total dose was used as an efficacy indicator. A proteinuria rate of grade 2 or higher was used as a safety indicator.ResultsThere were 14 patients in both the UPCR and qualitative test groups. The medians of the actual total dose/planned total dose (%) for the angiogenesis inhibitors in the UPCR and qualitative test groups were 96.8 (48.5–103.9) and 77.7 (9.1–93.1), respectively, with that in the UPCR group being significantly higher (p < 0.001). However, one patient in the UPCR group developed nephrotic syndrome.ConclusionsMonitoring UPCR in elderly patients with grade 2 or higher proteinuria increases the total dosage of angiogenesis inhibitors, which may enhance their therapeutic effects. However, nephrotic syndrome was not fully confirmed in this small-scale study. Although further safety verifications are needed, our findings highlight the importance of monitoring UPCR to improve the efficacy and safety of angiogenesis inhibitors in elderly patients.

Construction and validation of a nomogram prediction model for the catheter-related thrombosis risk of central venous access devices in patients with cancer: a prospective machine learning study.

Central venous access devices (CVADs) are integral to cancer treatment. However, catheter-related thrombosis (CRT) poses a considerable risk to patient safety. It interrupts treatment; delays therapy; prolongs hospitalisation; and increases the physical, psychological and financial burden of patients. Our study aims to construct and validate a predictive model for CRT risk in patients with cancer. It offers the possibility to identify independent risk factors for CRT and prevent CRT in patients with cancer. We prospectively followed patients with cancer and CVAD at Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from January 2021 to December 2022 until catheter removal. Patients with CRT who met the criteria were taken as the case group. Two patients with cancer but without CRT diagnosed in the same month that a patient with cancer and CRT was diagnosed were selected by using a random number table to form a control group. Data from patients with CVAD placement in Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital and Hainan Provincial People's Hospital (January 2023 to June 2023) were used for the external validation of the optimal model. The incidence rate of CRT in patients with cancer was 5.02% (539/10 736). Amongst different malignant tumour types, head and neck (9.66%), haematological (6.97%) and respiratory (6.58%) tumours had the highest risks. Amongst catheter types, haemodialysis (13.91%), central venous (8.39%) and peripherally inserted central (4.68%) catheters were associated with the highest risks. A total of 500 patients with CRT and 1000 without CRT participated in model construction and were randomly assigned to the training (n = 1050) or testing (n = 450) groups. We identified 11 independent risk factors, including age, catheterisation method, catheter valve, catheter material, infection, insertion history, D-dimer concentration, operation history, anaemia, diabetes and targeted drugs. The logistic regression model had the best discriminative ability amongst the three models. It had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.868 (0.846-0.890) for the training group. The external validation AUC was 0.708 (0.618-0.797). The calibration curve of the nomogram model was consistent with the ideal curve. Moreover, the Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed a good fit (P > 0.05) and high net benefit value for the clinical decision curve. The nomogram model constructed in this study can predict the risk of CRT in patients with cancer. It can help in the early identification and screening of patients at high risk of cancer CRT.

Sublingual administration of atropine eye drops for treating sialorrhea after stroke: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundSialorrhea is a common concern in patients with swallowing disorders after stroke. Atropine sulfate blocks the muscarinic receptors in the salivary glands and leads to reduced saliva production. ObjectiveThe present study aimed to assess the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of sublingual administration of atropine eye drops for treating sialorrhea after stroke. DesignThis was a prospective cohort study. SettingThis study was conducted at Xiangyang No. 1 People's Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei Province, China. PopulationStroke patients with sialorrhea were analyzed. MethodsOne hundred stroke patients with sialorrhea were randomly assigned to the control group and the test group (n = 50 per group). The control group received routine swallowing rehabilitation training and neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The test group received therapy with 1% atropine eye drops, wherein one drop was administered sublingually 3 times per day. The Sialorrhea Scoring Scale and the incidence of adverse events were used to compare the severity of sialorrhea in the two groups. ResultsThe mean (standard deviation) sialorrhea score improved from 5.12 for the control group with routine rehabilitation training to 3.94 for the test group with atropine eye drop administration (P < 0.01). No significant differences in the incidence of adverse events were observed between the two groups. ConclusionsThe sublingual administration of 1% atropine eye drops three times per day can reduce the degree of sialorrhea to an extent more than that achieved with routine rehabilitation training; thus, this approach is effective, safe, and minimally invasive for treating sialorrhea after stroke.

Development of Bacillus stratosphericus Lysate Concentrate to Control Sebum Secretion through In vitro Studies and Clinical Trial

The sebum on human skin is generated for various causes. The composition of the formed sebum increases the proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) residing on the skin. As C. acnes proliferates, it produces skin irritants that stimulate the sebaceous glands, increasing sebum production. Skin troubles such as acne may occur. The lysate concentrates of Bacillus stratosphericus (B. stratosphericus), first discovered in the stratosphere, confirmed a 66.35% inhibition of Nitric Oxide (NO) production at 0.50 mg/ml concentration in vitro. Additionally, the growth inhibition efficacy of B. stratosphericus lysate concentrate (BSLC) against C. acnes was confirmed, showing a 95.1% inhibition of growth proliferation at a consistency of 0.50 mg/ml. Based on the in vitro results, the efficacy of BSLC in degrading and reducing sebum was confirmed by reacting it with artificial sebum to various concentrations. The results showed a concentration-dependent decrease in artificial sebum ccording to the efficacy results confirmed in vitro, a clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the daily sebum reduction efficacy of a serum formulation containing 50 mg/ml of BSLC. After a 4-week application, the test group containing BSLC determined a significant 28.68% reduction in sebum levels, demonstrating the practical implications of the research. In conclusion, BSLC is considered to have sufficient industrial value as a valuable ingredient for the cosmetics industry aimed at sebum improvement.

Degraded oculomotor function and its implications on balance in pediatric strabismus

BackgroundChildren with visual impairment often exhibit poor postural control. However, the effects of strabismus on oculomotor system components and its impact on balance in children are not yet fully understood. This study aims to determine the potential effects of oculomotor functions on balance skills in children with strabismus.MethodsA total of 30 children aged between 6 and 10 years participated in this study. Fifteen children diagnosed with strabismus were included in the strabismus group (8.07 ± 1.33 years), and 15 healthy children without any vision problems were included in the control group (8.03 ± 1.49 years). All children underwent a comprehensive hearing evaluation, bedside neurological and balance examinations, the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) assessment to assess balance function, and Videonystagmography (VNG) tests to measure oculomotor function.ResultsIn the saccade test, no significant differences were found between the groups in terms of latency, accuracy, and speed (p > 0.05). The strabismus group showed significantly lower pursuit test gains (except the left eye at 0.4 Hz) (p < 0.05) and significantly higher asymmetries (except the right eye at 0.4 Hz) (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the groups in optokinetic test gains (p > 0.05). The strabismus group had significantly lower scores on the 360-degree rotation task (10th item) (p = 0.027) and total PBS scores (p = 0.029). Correlation analysis revealed statistically significant negative correlations between strabismus angle and optokinetic test gains, pursuit test gains, and PBS total scores, with varying correlation strengths (p < 0.05 and − 0.639 < r < − 0.338).ConclusionsStrabismus adversely affects the optokinetic and pursuit systems, as well as balance in children. Furthermore, an increase in the strabismus angle is associated with greater adverse effects on these functions. The lower scores obtained in the PBS scores of the strabismus group indicate that strabismus may negatively affect balance skills in activities of daily living. Early intervention and targeted therapies should be considered to mitigate these effects and support the development of balance skills in children with strabismus.

Colchicine effect on biomarkers of cardiac remodelling and atherosclerosis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: A randomized controlled trial.

Owing to its underlying inflammatory nature, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading global cause of mortality, particularly post-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a condition with significant risk for further cardiovascular events and mortality. This study aimed to investigate colchicine's effect on inflammation, cardiac remodelling and atherosclerotic risk in STEMI patients. We conducted a randomized controlled study on 88 STEMI patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups. The control group received the guideline-directed medical therapy for STEMI, and the test group received guideline-directed medical therapy and 0.5mg colchicine twice daily for 3months. The soluble suppressor of tumorigenicity (sST2), interleukin-1β, lipid profile parameters, triglyceride (TG)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) ratio levels and left ventricular ejection fraction were evaluated for patients at baseline and the end of the 3months. No significant effects were reported for colchicine on sST2, interleukin-1β levels or left ventricular ejection fraction. Colchicine significantly lowered TG levels vs. controls, 134 (46-353) vs. 176 (72-825) respectively, P= .02, as well as TG/HDL-C ratio levels, 4.16 (2.75-5.24) vs. 5.11 (3.51-8.33),` respectively, P= .024. sST2 levels of the studied cohort were positively correlated with their TG/HDL-C ratio levels (R= .459, P< .001) at the end of follow-up. Our study highlights a promising impact of colchicine on atherosclerosis and cardiac remodelling factors in STEMI patients. Colchicine significantly reduced TG levels and TG/HDL-C ratio and was safe and well tolerated. Larger long-term studies powered to assess clinical outcomes of remodelling are necessary to confirm its beneficial effects in STEMI. NCT06054100.

Https://www.jnacs.com/article_204121_f66de375b6bfd2ce855231d4d8bb32b1.pdf

The present study aims to determine the continuous care model's effect on cancer patients' self-efficacy. This randomized controlled trial study, employing a pre-test-post-test design with two groups, was conducted on cancer patients referred to chemotherapy centers in Gorgan, Iran, in 2020. The sampling method employed in this study was random allocation. Initially, the researcher compiled a list of eligible research units. Subsequently, using a simple random process, the research units were divided into 15 in the test group and 15 in the control group. The data collection tools in this research included demographic information (age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, and duration of illness) and the Chronic Disease Self-Efficacy Scales (CDSES). A total of 30 participants were divided into intervention and control groups. The average self-efficacy of the research units before the intervention was 144.8 (SD=11.53) in the test group and 147.97 (SD=11.97) in the control group. The independent t-test revealed no significant difference between the two groups before the intervention (P=0.47). Post-intervention, the average self-efficacy was 168.2 (SD=9.31) in the test group and 155.6 (SD=8.3) in the control group. The independent t-test showed a significant difference between the two groups (P=0.001). Consequently, it is recommended that nursing models and theories, particularly the continuous care model, be incorporated into structured and planned educational programs to provide nursing care, especially supportive care.

Communicating a cancer diagnosis using a human centered design approach.

229 Background: Anticipating and getting "the call" communicating a cancer diagnosis is reportedly one of the most stressful times in a person’s life. If not pre-scheduled patients are often in unfortunate locations, doing distractive activities and are with unsympathetic companions. Additionally, patients ask for a single point of contact, impactful resources, and immediate next steps and appointments scheduling. Methods: Pilot/Study: 120 breast cancer patients: Control group: 30 positive, 30 negative DX Test group: 30 positive, 30 negative DX Test approach: co-designed with 10 patients, 5 physicians and 5 staff. Interviews: 7 care team roles. Data collection: customized patient interview assessment tool. Steady State: sustaining work done. Conducted: January 2019 through December 2022. Evaluation Methods -11 tests: t-Tests, One-Way ANOVA, and Capability. Changes Made: call be at a pre-scheduled time delivered by ongoing point of contact offering immediate next steps and appointment scheduling offering meaningful support and resources delivered with deep empathy/compassion. Results: The project was highly successful based on the results it achieved. Results: Improved by 64% (original goal of 30%) the composite measure of care satisfaction of patients receiving a breast cancer diagnosis call in Kaiser Permanente Maui, Hawaii. Composite: 1) 61% improvement in “satisfaction with your circumstance”, 2) 63% improvement in “satisfaction with the conversation”, and 3) 70% improvement in “feeling supported” using a local measurement tool. Conclusions: The 64% improvement in the patients' experience for cancer diagnosis communication was accomplished by understanding the needs of the patients and care team, establishing new communication protocols and resources, and ensuring the process empowered patients. The study showed that both patients and care teams want a communication process that included the elements in the test approach. This project was deemed a Kaiser Permanente best practice and is in consideration for spread. Improved by 64% (goal was 30%) the composite measure of care satisfaction of patients receiving a breast cancer diagnosis call in Kaiser Permanente Maui, Hawaii. Breast Cancer Diagnosis Communication - Key Improvement Metrics: Control Group Test Group Outcome Measure: the composite measure improvement 64% of care satisfaction of patients receiving a DX Results Call 2.39 3.93 Composite Measure 1: 61% improvement in “satisfaction with your circumstance” 2.35 3.78 Composite Measure 2: 63% improvement in “satisfaction with the conversation” 2.50 4.07 Composite Measure 3: 70% improvement in “feeling supported” 2.33 3.95 Process Measure: the error rate over time had a statistically significant difference between the Control and Test groups 30.3 8.90 Balancing Measure: Negative result patients have a similar experience as the Positive result patients No significant difference No significant difference

Effect of concept mapping education on clinical decision-making in nursing students: A randomized controlled trial

Clinical decision-making is a critical and essential skill in clinical care. Nurses' proficiency in proper clinical decision-making significantly improves the quality of nursing care. As an active learning approach, concept mapping education plays a vital role in deep learning and applying critical thinking skills in clinical decision-making. This study aimed to investigate the impact of concept mapping on clinical decision-making in nursing students. The study was an experimental design with two groups, where participants were randomly assigned to the test group (25 students) or the control group (25 students). Data were collected using the clinical decision-making questionnaire. Based on relevant literature, the test group participated in eight concept mapping sessions lasting 60 to 90 minutes each, while the control group received traditional lecture-based education. Covariance analysis, excluding the effect of the pre-test, showed no significant difference (P=0.86, eta=0.01). Still, a paired t-test revealed a significant difference in the test group before and after the intervention (P&lt;0.01). The results demonstrated that concept mapping education enhances clinical decision-making. Therefore, this teaching method, which promotes students' reflection, creativity, and decision-making skills, is recommended in nursing education. Concept mapping is an effective, innovative, and cost-efficient educational strategy.