Comparison of QT Correction Methods in the Pediatric Population of a Community Hospital: A Retrospective Study

Objective:Accurate measurement of QT interval,the ventricular action potential from depolarization to repolarization,is important for the early detection of Long QT syndrome.The most effective QT correction(QTc)formula has yet to be determined in the pediatric population,although it has intrinsically greater extremes in heart rate(HR)and is more susceptible to errors in measurement.The authors of this study compare six dif-ferent QTc methods(Bazett,Fridericia,Framingham,Hodges,Rautaharju,and a computer algorithm utilizing the Bazett formula)for consistency against variations in HR and RR interval.Methods:Descriptive Retrospective Study.We included participants from a pediatric cardiology practice of a community hospital who had an ECG performed in 2017.All participants were healthy patients with no past medical history and no regular med-ications.Results:ECGs from 95 participants from one month to 21 years of age(mean 9.7 years)were included with a mean HR of 91 beats per minute(bpm).The two-sample paired t-test or Wilcoxon signed-rank test assessed for any difference between QTc methods.A statistically significant difference was observed between every combination of two QTc formulae.The Spearman’s rank correlation analysis explored the QTc/HR and QTc/RR relationships for each formula.Fridericia method was most independent of HR and RR with the lowest absolute value of correlation coefficients.Bazett and Computer had moderate correlations,while Framingham and Rautaharju exhibited strong correlations.Correlations were positive for Bazett and Computer,reflecting results from prior studies demonstrating an over-correction of Bazett at higher HRs.In the linear QTc/HR regression analysis,Bazett had the slope closest to zero,although Computer,Hodges,and Fridericia had comparable values.Alternatively,Fridericia had the linear QTc/RR regression coefficient closest to zero.The Bland-Altman method assessed for bias and the limits of agreement between correction formulae.Bazett and Computer exhibited good agreement with minimal bias along with Framingham and Rautaharju.To account for a possible skewed distri-bution of QT,all the above analyses were also performed excluding the top and bottom 2%of data as sorted by heart rate ranges(N=90).Results from this data set were consistent with those derived from all participants(N=95).Conclusions:Overall,the Fridericia correction method provided the best rate correction in our pedia-tric study cohort.

A Case Report and a Descriptive Retrospective Study of Cases of Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis Diagnosed over a 10-Year Period in a Third Level Hospital

Inferior vena cava thrombosis is an under-recognized entity associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This is the reason why, although the diagnosis is challenging, a high index of suspicion is required. Regarding this condition, we present the case of a 63-year-old man who had repeatedly visited the emergency room suffering from abdominal and back pain and painful lower limb edema. After several tests, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), he was diagnosed to have agenesis of left renal vein and inferior vena cava thrombosis, from hypercoagulable state secondary to Antiphospholipid Syndrome. He had anticoagulation treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin with good subsequent evolution. This study sets out a descriptive retrospective study of fifty cases of inferior vena cava thrombosis diagnosed in a third-level hospital in the north of Spain over a ten-year period (2010-2018). The aim of this article is to identify the epidemiology, predisposing factors and symptoms that characterize this entity, in order to be able to achieve an early diagnosis that allows us to initiate immediate treatment, minimizing acute and chronic complications of this disease.

Readmission rate and early complications in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty:A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Total knee arthroplasty(TKA)can improve pain,quality of life,and functional outcomes.Although uncommon,postoperative complications are extremely consequential and thus must be carefully tracked and communicated to patients to assist their decision-making before surgery.Identification of the risk factors for complications and readmissions after TKA,taking into account common causes,temporal trends,and risk variables that can be changed or left unmodified,will benefit this process.AIM To assess readmission rates,early complications and their causes after TKA at 30 days and 90 days post-surgery.METHODS This was a prospective and retrospective study of 633 patients who underwent TKA at our hospital between January 1,2017,and February 28,2022.Of the 633 patients,28 were not contactable,leaving 609 who met the inclusion criteria.Both inpatient and outpatient hospital records were retrieved,and observations were noted in the data collection forms.RESULTS Following TKA,the 30-day and 90-day readmission rates were determined to be 1.1%(n=7)and 1.8%(n=11),respectively.The unplanned visit rate at 30 days following TKA was 2.6%(n=16)and at 90 days was 4.6%(n=28).At 90 days,the unplanned readmission rate was 1.4%(n=9).Reasons for readmissions included medical(27.2%,n=3)and surgical(72.7%,n=8).Unplanned readmissions and visits within 90 days of follow-up did not substantially differ by age group(P=0.922),body mass index(BMI)(P=0.633),unilateral vs bilateral TKA(P=0.696),or patient comorbidity status(30-day P=0.171 and 90-day P=0.813).Reoperation rates after TKA were 0.66%(n=4)at 30 days and 1.15%(n=8)at 90 days.The average length of stay was 6.53 days.CONCLUSION In this study,there was a low readmission rate following TKA.There was no significant correlation between readmission rate and patient factors such as age,BMI,and co-morbidity status.

Epidemiological and clinical features,treatment status,and economic burden of traumatic spinal cord injury in China:a hospital-based retrospective study

Traumatic spinal cord injury is potentially catastrophic and can lead to permanent disability or even death.China has the largest population of patients with traumatic spinal cord injury.Previous studies of traumatic spinal cord injury in China have mostly been regional in scope;national-level studies have been rare.To the best of our knowledge,no national-level study of treatment status and economic burden has been performed.This retrospective study aimed to examine the epidemiological and clinical features,treatment status,and economic burden of traumatic spinal cord injury in China at the national level.We included 13,465 traumatic spinal cord injury patients who were injured between January 2013 and December 2018 and treated in 30 hospitals in 11 provinces/municipalities representing all geographical divisions of China.Patient epidemiological and clinical features,treatment status,and total and daily costs were recorded.Trends in the percentage of traumatic spinal cord injuries among all hospitalized patients and among patients hospitalized in the orthopedic department and cost of care were assessed by annual percentage change using the Joinpoint Regression Program.The percentage of traumatic spinal cord injuries among all hospitalized patients and among patients hospitalized in the orthopedic department did not significantly change overall(annual percentage change,-0.5%and 2.1%,respectively).A total of 10,053(74.7%)patients underwent surgery.Only 2.8%of patients who underwent surgery did so within 24 hours of injury.A total of 2005(14.9%)patients were treated with high-dose(≥500 mg)methylprednisolone sodium succinate/methylprednisolone(MPSS/MP);615(4.6%)received it within 8 hours.The total cost for acute traumatic spinal cord injury decreased over the study period(-4.7%),while daily cost did not significantly change(1.0%increase).Our findings indicate that public health initiatives should aim at improving hospitals’ability to complete early surgery within 24 hours,which is associated with improved sensorimotor recovery,increasing the awareness rate of clinical guidelines related to high-dose MPSS/MP to reduce the use of the treatment with insufficient evidence.

Retrospective review of total neoadjuvant therapy

BACKGROUND Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy(nCRT)followed by resection and postoperative multi-agent chemotherapy(maChT)is the standard of care for locally advanced rectal cancer.Using this approach,maChT administration can be delayed for several months,leading to concern for distant metastases.To counteract this,a novel treatment approach known as total neoadjuvant therapy(TNT)has gained popularity,in which patients receive both maChT and nCRT prior to resection.We utilized the National Cancer Database to examine temporal trends in TNT usage,and any potential effect on survival.AIM To study the temporal trends in the usage of TNT and evaluate its efficacy compared to neoadjuvant chemoradiation.METHODS We queried the National Cancer Database for patients with locally advanced rectal cancer,Stage II-III,from 2004-2015 treated with nCRT or TNT.TNT was defined as maChT initiated≥90 d prior to nCRT initiation.Overall survival was calculated from the date of diagnosis to the date of last contact or death using Kaplan-Meier curves to present the cumulative probability of survival,with logrank statistics to assess significance.Multivariable cox regression was used to identify predictors of survival and propensity score analysis accounted for bias.RESULTS We identified 9066 eligible patients,with 8812 and 254 patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiation followed by maChT and TNT,respectively.Nodal involvement,stage III disease,and treatment in recent years were predictive of TNT use.There was greater use of TNT with more advanced stage,specifically>1 node involved(odds ratio[OR]=2.88,95%confidence interval[CI]:2.11-3.93,P<0.01)and stage III disease(OR=2.88,95%CI:2.11-3.93,P<0.01).From 2010 to 2012 the use of TNT increased(OR=2.41,95%CI:1.27-4.56,P<0.01)with a greater increase from 2013 to 2015(OR=6.62,95%CI:3.57-12.25,P<0.01).Both the TNT and neoadjuvant chemoradiation arms had a similar 5-year survival at 76%and 78%respectively.Multivariable analysis with propensity score demonstrated that increased age,high comorbidity score,higher grade,African American race,and female gender had worse overall survival.CONCLUSION Our data demonstrates a rising trend in TNT use,particularly in patients with worse disease.Patients treated with TNT and nCRT had similar survival.Randomized trials evaluating TNT are underway.

Gutuo Jiejiu decoction improves survival of patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis: A retrospective cohort study

AIM To verify the value of Gutuo Jiejiu decoction in improving the survival of patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis(SAH).METHODS We performed a retrospective cohort study in consecutive patients diagnosed with SAH at the Teaching Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The traditional Chinese medicine formula Gutuo Jiejiu decoction was employed as an exposure factor. Patients from the Teaching Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine who had been treated with Gutuo Jiejiu decoction + prednisone were assigned to an observation group, and patients from Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine who had been treated with prednisone alone were selected as a control group. A retrospective analysis was performed by comparing age, alcohol intake, and clinical parameters of liver injury beforeand after treatment. Additionally, the 3-and 12-mo survival rates and the occurrence of complications were analyzed.RESULTS One hundred and twenty-eight eligible patients were selected from 175 cases with SAH, of which 68 were assigned to the observation group and the other 60 to the control group. No significant difference was found in the patients' baseline characteristics(P > 0.05). However, significant improvements of 90-d survival rate [56/68(82.4%) vs 27/60(45.0%), P = 0.0000] and 365-d survival rate [48/68(70.6%) vs 13/60(21.7%), P = 00000] were observed in the observation group after treatment. After the first 3 mo of treatment, more improvements in the clinical parameters and scoring systems related to liver injury occurred in the observation group than in the control group(P < 0.05). After treatment for 12 mo, the differences in the clinical parameters and scoring systems related to liver injury between the two groups were more significant(P < 0.05). No significant differences in complications and adverse effects were found between the two groups.CONCLUSION Gutuo Jiejiu decoction could improve the survival rates and clinical parameters of liver injury in patients with SAH, and may represent a new option for treating SAH.

Acetabular revisions using porous tantalum components: A retrospective study with 5-10 years follow-up

AIM To evaluate the clinical and X-ray results of acetabular components and tantalum augments in prosthetic hip revisions.METHODS Fifty-eight hip prostheses with primary failure of the acetabular component were reviewed with tantalum implants. The clinical records and X-rays of these cases were retrospectively reviewed. Bone defect evaluations were based on preoperative CT scans and classified according to Paprosky criteria of Radiolucent lines and periprosthetic gaps; implant mobilization and osteolysis were evaluated by X-ray. An ad hoc database was created and statistical analyses were performed with SPSS software(IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 23.0). Statistical analyses were carried out using the Student's t test for independent and paired samples. A P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant and cumulative survival was calculated by the KaplanMeier method.RESULTS The mean follow-up was 87.6 ± 25.6 mo(range 3-120 mo). 25 cases(43.1%) were classified as minor defects, and 33 cases(56.9%) as major defects. The preoperative HHS rating improved significantly from a mean of 40.7 ± 6.1(range: 29-53) before revision, to a mean of 85.8 ± 6.1(range: 70-94) at the end of the follow-up(Student's t test for paired samples: P < 0.001). Considering HHS only at the end of follow-up, no statistically significant difference was observed between patients with a major or minor defect(Student's t test for independent samples: P > 0.05). Radiolucent lines were found in 4 implants(6.9%). Postoperative acetabular gaps were observed in 5 hips(8.6%). No signs of implant mobilization or areas of periprosthetic osteolysis were found in the x-rays at the final follow-up. Only 3 implants failed: 1 case of infection and 2 cases of instability. Defined as the end-point, cumulative survival at 10 years was 95%(for all reasons) and 100% for aseptic loosening of the acetabular component.CONCLUSION The medium-term use of prosthetic tantalum components in prosthetic hip revisions is safe and effective in a wide variety of acetabular bone defects.

Primary tumor location and survival in colorectal cancer: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND Primary tumor location is a prognostic factor for metastatic colorectal cancer(m CRC).Post hoc analyses of m CRC clinical trials,including FIRE-3,CALGB/SWOG 80405,suggest that primary tumor location is also predictive of survival benefit with cetuximab or bevacizumab in combination with 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy.AIM Evaluate prognostic/predictive roles of primary tumor location in real-world m CRC patients treated with cetuximab or bevacizumab plus 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy.METHODS This retrospective cohort study selected patients with KRAS wild-type m CRC who initiated first-line therapy with cetuximab or bevacizumab in combination with 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin/irinotecan(FOLFIRI)or 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin/oxaliplatin(FOLFOX)between January 2013 and April 2017 from the Flatiron Health electronic health record-derived database of de-identified patientlevel data in the United States.Primary tumor location was abstracted from patients’charts.Left-sided primary tumor location(LPTL)was defined as tumors that originated in the splenic flexure,descending colon,sigmoid colon,or rectum;right-sided primary tumor location(RPTL)was defined as tumors that originated from the appendix,cecum,ascending colon,hepatic flexure,or transverse colon.Propensity score matching was used to balance the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics between patients treated with cetuximab and patientstreated with bevacizumab.Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods were used for survival analyses.RESULTS A total of 1312 patients met the selection criteria.Of 248 cetuximab plus FOLFIRI or FOLFOX patients,164 had LPTL and 84 had RPTL;of 1064 bevacizumab plus FOLFIRI or FOLFOX patients,679 had LPTL and 385 had RPTL.Cetuximab LPTL and RPTL patients were more likely to receive FOLFIRI vs bevacizumab patients(LPTL:64.0%vs 24.3%;RPTL:76.2%vs 24.9%,P<0.001).Stage at initial diagnosis was different between cetuximab RPTL vs bevacizumab RPTL patients(P<0.001);cetuximab RPTL patients were more likely to have stage III disease(44.0%vs 22.6%),while bevacizumab RPTL patients were more likely to have stage IV disease(65.7%vs 48.8%).Cetuximab RPTL patients were more likely to have a documented history of adjuvant chemotherapy vs bevacizumab RPTL patients(47.6%vs 22.3%,P<0.001).In the propensity score-matched sample,median overall survival(OS)was 29.7 mo(95%CI:26.9-35.2)for LPTL patients vs 18.3 mo(95%CI:15.8-21.3)for RPTL patients(P<0.001).Median OS was 29.7 mo(95%CI:27.4-NA)for cetuximab LPTL patients vs 29.1 mo(95%CI:26.6-35.6)for bevacizumab LPTL patients(HR=0.87;95%CI:0.63-1.19;P=0.378)and 17.0 mo(95%CI:12.0-32.6)for cetuximab RPTL patients vs 18.8 mo(95%CI:15.8-22.3)for bevacizumab RPTL patients(HR=1.00;95%CI:0.68-1.46;P=0.996).The interaction of treatment and primary tumor location was not significant in the Cox regression.CONCLUSION In this real-world m CRC cohort,the prognostic role of primary tumor location was substantiated,but not the predictive role for treatment with cetuximab vs bevacizumab in combination with 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy.

Selection criteria for preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography before laparoscopic cholecystectomy and endoscopic treatment of bile duct stones:Results of a retrospective,single center study between 1996-2002

AIM: The optimal treatment for bile duct stones (in terms of cost, complications and accuracy) is unclear. The aim of our study was to determine the predictive factors for preoperative endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).METHODS: Patients undergoing preoperative ERCP (≤90 d before laparoscopic cholecystectomy) were evaluated in this retrospective study from the 1^st of January 1996 to the 31^st of December 2002. The indications for ERCP were elevated serum bilirubin, elevated liver function tests (LFT), dilated bile duct (≥8 mm) and/or stone at US examination, coexisting acute pancreatitis and/or acute pancreatitis or jaundice in patient's history. Suspected prognostic factors and the combination of factors were compared to the result of ERCRRESULTS: Two hundred and six preoperative ERCPs were performed during the observed period. The rate of successful cannulation for ERC was (97.1%). Bile duct stones were detected in 81 patients (39.3%), and successfully removed in 79 (97.5%). The number of prognostic factors correlated with the presence of bile duct stones. The positive predictive value for one prognostic factor was 1.2%, for two 43%,for three 72.5%, for four or more 91.4%.CONCLUSION: Based on our data preoperative ERCP is highly recommended in patients with three or more positive factors (high risk patients). In contrast, ERCP is not indicated in patients with zero or one factor (low risk patients).Preoperative ERCP should be offered to patients with two positive factors (moderate risk patients), however the practice should also be based on the local conditions (e.g.skill of the endoscopist, other diagnostic tools).

Adherence to Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices in diabetes mellitus patients in Saudi Arabia:A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND Patients with diabetes mellitus(DM)are predisposed to an increased risk of infection signifying the importance of vaccination to protect against its potentially severe complications.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices(CDC/ACIP)issued immunization recommendations to protect this patient population.AIM To assess the adherence of patients with DM to the CDC/ACIP immunization recommendations in Saudi Arabia and to identify the factors associated with the vaccine adherence rate.METHODS An observational retrospective study conducted in 2023 was used to collect data on the vaccination records from 13 diabetes care centers in Saudi Arabia with 1000 eligible patients in phase I with data collected through chart review and 709 patients in phase II through online survey.RESULTS Among participants,10.01%(n=71)had never received any vaccine,while 85.89%(n=609)received at least one dose of the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)vaccine,and 34.83%(n=247)had received the annual influenza vaccine.Only 2.96%(n=21),2.11%(n=15),and 1.12%(n=8)received herpes zoster,tetanus,diphtheria,and pertussis(Tdap),and human papillomavirus(HPV)vaccines,respectively.For patients with DM in Saudi Arabia,the rate of vaccination for annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccines was higher compared to other vaccinations such as herpes zoster,Tdap,pneumococcal,and HPV.Factors such as vaccine recommendations provided by family physicians or specialists,site of care,income level,DM-related hospitalization history,residency site,hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c)level,and health sector type can significantly influence the vaccination rate in patients with DM.Among non-vaccinated patients with DM,the most reported barriers were lack of knowledge and fear of side effects.This signifies the need for large-scale research in this area to identify additional factors that might facilitate adherence to CDC/ACIP vaccine recommendations in patients with DM.CONCLUSION In Saudi Arabia,patients with DM showed higher vaccination rates for annual influenza and COVID-19 vaccines compared to other vaccinations such as herpes zoster,Tdap,pneumococcal,and HPV.Factors such as vaccine recommendations provided by family physicians or specialists,the site of care,income level,DM-related hospitalization history,residency site,HbA1c level,and health sector type can significantly influence the vaccination rate in patients with DM.

Racial differences in the anatomical distribution of colorectal cancer:a study of differences between American and Chinese patients

AIM: To compare the racial differences of anatomical distribution of colorectal cancer (CRC) and determine the association of age, gender and time with anatomical distribution between patients from America (white) and China (oriental).METHODS: Data was collected from 690 consecutive patients in Cleveland Clinic Florida, U.S.A. and 870consecutive patients in Nan Fang Hospital affiliated to the First Military Medical University, China over the past 11years from 1990 to 2000. All patients had colorectal adenocarcinoma diagnosed by histology and underwent surgery.RESULTS: The anatomical subsite distribution of tumor,age and gender were significantly different between white and oriental patients. Lesions in the proximal colon (P＜0.001) were found in 36.3 % of white vs 26.0 % of oriental patients and cancers located in the distal colon and rectum in 63.7 % of white and 74 % of oriental patients (P＜0.001). There was a trend towards the redistribution from distal colon and rectum to proximal colon in white males over time, especially in older patients (＞80 years).No significant change of anatomical distribution occurred in white women and Oriental patients. The mean age at diagnosis was 69.0 years in white patients and 48.3 years in Oriental patients (P＜0.001).CONCLUSION: This is the first study comparing the anatomical distribution of colorectal cancers in whites and Chinese patients. White Americans have a higher risk of proximal CRC and this risk increased with time. The proportion of white males with CRC also increased with time.Chinese patients were more likely to have distal CRC and developed the disease at a significantly earlier age than white patients. These findings have enhanced our understanding of the disease process of colorectal cancer in these two races.

The effect of long-term traditional Chinese medicine treatment on disease-free survival of postoperative stage I-III lung cancer patients:a retrospective cohort study

Objective:Traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)has been extensively used as one of popular alternative therapies for several cancers.However,it remains unclear whether TCM treatment is associated with longer survival in lung cancer patients.In this study,we explored the effect of long-term TCM treatment on patients with different stages of lung cancer.Methods:All information of lung cancer patients with stage I-III disease from January 2007 to September 2015 was collected for this retrospective cohort study.Those who were treated with TCM after surgery were divided into TCM group and the others were into the non-TCM group(control group).All patients were regularly followed up by clinic appointment or phone,and all survival data were collected from databases after the last follow-up in October 2017.Results:A total of 575 patients were included in this study,with 299 patients in the TCM group and 276 in the control group.For all patients,5-year disease-free survival(DFS)was 62.2% in TCM group and 42.1% in the control group,and 6-year DFSs were 51.8% and 35.4%,respectively(HR=0.51,95% CI:0.40 to 0.66,log-rank P≤0.001).For patients with stage I,5-year DFSs were 83.7%(TCM group)and 57.5%(control group)and 6-year DFSs were 73.7% and 51.9%,respectively(HR=0.30,95% CI:0.18 to 0.50,log-rank P≤0.001).For patients with stage II in the TCM group and the control group,5-year DFSs were 59.4% and 17.6% and 6-year DFSs were 44.7% and 17.6%,respectively(HR=0.31,95% CI:0.19 to 0.52,log-rank P≤0.001),and for patients with stage III,5-year and 6-year DFSs in the TCM group were 18.7% and 12.5% compared with 28.4% and 20.3% in the control group(HR=1.06,95% CI:0.72 to 1.56,log-rank P=0.76).Conclusions:This study demonstrated that long-term TCM treatment as an adjuvant therapy is able to improve the DFS of postoperative stage I-III lung cancer patients,especially in patients with stage I and II disease.However,these observational findings need being validated by large sample randomized controlled trials.

Recanalization of extracranial internal carotid artery occlusion A 12-year retrospective study

This study aimed to summarize therapy experience of carotid endarterectomy, carotid endarterec- tomy combined with Fogarty catheter embolectomy, and hybrid surgery for the treatment of extrac- ranial internal carotid artery occlusion. The study included 65 patients with extracranial internal ca- rotid artery occlusion who underwent carotid endarterectomy, carotid endarterectomy combined with Fogarty catheter embotectomy, or hybrid surgery in the Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, China between January 2006 and December 2012. Prior to surgery, all patients underwent perfusion CT or xenon CT to evaluate the occlusion. The procedure for each patient was chosen according to digital subtraction angiography data. The carotid artery was successfully recanalized in 46 of 51 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy, 9 of 10 patients who underwent carotid endarterectomy combined with Fogarty catheter embolectomy, and 3 of 4 patients who underwent hybrid surgery. In patients with symptomatic carotid artery occlusion, the carotid artery can be recanalized by choosing a treatment procedure based on imaging ex- amination findings.

Management of Multi-Drug Resistant Methicillin Resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i>Induced Pneumonia with New Antibiotic Adjuvant Entity: A Retrospective Study

Aim/Objective: Increase in incidences of pneumonia due to multi-drug resistant methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in both community and health care settings is of great concern globally. Present study aims to retrospectively analyze the efficacy of new fixed dose combination with antibiotic adjuvant entity (FDC) in comparison with vancomycin to treat patients with multi-drug resistant MRSA pneumonia. Materials and Methods: During this retrospective study, case sheets of patients who were treated for MRSA pneumonia with vancomycin or fixed dose combination of vancomycin + ceftriaxone + adjuvant (FDC) between 20 March 2010 to 20 October 2014 at tertiary care center, were analyzed. Various demographic features, antibiotic therapy, length of treatment duration and the resulting efficacy were evaluated. Microbiological success was measured in terms of bacterial eradication, while clinical success was monitored in terms of complete omission of systemic signs and symptoms. Results: Among 136 patients analyzed, 113 cases were having positive culture for MRSA, and hence were further analyzed. Out of these 113 patients, empirical treatment with vancomycin was given in 59 patients and 54 patients were treated with FDC empirically. After initial culture reports, 22 patients showing resistance to vancomycin were shifted to FDC. Amidst all the patients, 24 (64.86%) of 37 from vancomycin group and 62 (81.57%) of 76 from FDC group achieved clinical success. 9 patients out of these failure cases were cured with FDC + colistin combination therapy. Failure rates in FDC treated patients were significantly low (6.57%) as compared to vancomycin group (13.51%). Conclusion: For the treatment of different types of multi-drug resistant MRSA pneumonia, the empirical intravenous FDC therapy was safe and well tolerated with higher efficacy than vancomycin. Most of the vancomycin failure cases responded to FDC therapy and were cured. This retrospective study also concludes that an alternative option of FDC + colistin is safe and effective to treat the patients which fail to respond to FDC monotherapy.

Five-blade scratcher for treating severe rhinophyma:A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Rhinophyma,a late-stage subtype of rosacea,is characterized by excessive sebaceous glands and connective tissue proliferation.Patients may experience respiratory disturbances and psychological distress that significantly affect their quality of life when excessive nasal hyperplasia obstructs the external nasal valves.Surgery is the treatment of choice for rhinophyma.However,excessive bleeding,scarring,pigmentation,and high recurrence rates frequently characterize current surgical methods.AIM To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and recurrence rates after treating severe rhinophyma with the five-blade scratcher.METHODS This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical records of 28 patients with severe rhinophyma rosacea.The Global Flushing Severity Score(GFSS),Clinician Erythema Assessment(CEA),Rhinophyma Severity Index(RHISI),Glasgow Benefit Inventory(GBI),and satisfaction scores were used to assess the recovery of patients at 6 months and 5 years,with the recurrence rate calculated at 5 years postoperatively.In addition,the levels of pro-inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-1β,and IL-6)in the serum of patients before and after surgery were detected by ELISA.RESULTS The GFSS,CEA,and RHISI scores at 6 months and 5 years postoperatively were significantly lower than those preoperatively(P<0.001 for both periods).Five-blade scratcher treatment greatly benefits patients as demonstrated by the GBI and patient satisfaction.A small number of patients(7/28,25%)reported recurrence after surgical treatment for rhinophyma in our department that was not more serious than before treatment.The expression of pro-inflammatory factors(TNF-α,IL-1β,and IL-6)in the patient's serum was significantly reduced after surgery of five-blade scratcher.CONCLUSION The five-blade scratcher treatment demonstrates notable advantages,including simplicity,safety,efficacy,and cost-effectiveness,coupled with reduced bleeding,minimized scarring,lower recurrence rates,reduced the level of pro-inflammatory factors and improved patient satisfaction.Consequently,this therapeutic modality exhibits a viable option for individuals afflicted with severe rhinophyma.

Deliberate self-harm among pediatric psychiatric inpatients in China:A single-center retrospective study

BACKGROUND For children and adolescents,deliberate self-harm(DSH)is becoming a mental health problem of concern.Despite several studies on the prevalence and factors of DSH in the world,there is little information on DSH among children and adolescents in China.This study explores the prevalence,types,associated risk factors and tendency of DSH in pediatric psychiatric inpatients in China.AIM To understand the situation of DSH among hospitalized children and adolescents and its related factors.METHODS In this study,we retrospectively studied 1414 hospitalized children and adolescents with mental illness at Xiamen Mental Health Center from 2014 to 2019,extracted the demographic and clinical data of all patients,and analyzed clinical risk factors of DSH.RESULTS A total of 239(16.90%)patients engaged in at least one type of DSH in our study.Cutting(n=115,48.12%)was the most common type of DSH.Females(n=171,71.55%)were more likely to engage in DSH than males(n=68,28.45%).DSH was positively associated with depressive disorders[OR=3.845(2.196-6.732);P<0.01],female[OR=2.536(1.815-3.542);P<0.01],parental marital status[OR=5.387(2.254-12.875);P<0.01]and negative family history of psychiatric illness[OR=7.767(2.952-20.433);P<0.01],but not with occupation,substance use and history of physical abuse.CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that for patients with depression,females,an abnormal marriage of parents,and no history of mental illness,attention should be paid to the occurrence of DSH.

Analysis of vascular thrombus and clinicopathological factors in prognosis of gastric cancer:A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND Gastric cancer(GC)is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world,and its prognosis is closely related to many factors.In recent years,the incidence of vascular thrombosis in patients with GC has gradually attracted increasing attention,and studies have shown that it may have a significant impact on the survival rate and prognosis of patients.However,the specific mechanism underlying the association between vascular thrombosis and the prognosis of patients with GC remains unclear.AIM To analyze the relationships between vascular cancer support and other clinicopathological factors and their influence on the prognosis of patients with GC.METHODS This study retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathological data of 621 patients with GC and divided them into a positive group and a negative group according to the presence or absence of a vascular thrombus.The difference in the 5-year cumulative survival rate between the two groups was compared,and the relationships between vascular cancer thrombus and other clinicopathological factors and their influence on the prognosis of patients with GC were analyzed.RESULTS Among 621 patients with GC,the incidence of vascular thrombi was 31.7%(197 patients).Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the degree of tumor differentiation,depth of invasion,and extent of lymph node metastasis were independent influencing factors for the occurrence of vascular thrombi in GC patients(P<0.01).The trend of the χ^(2) test showed that the degree of differentiation,depth of invasion,and extent of lymph node metastasis were linearly correlated with the percentage of vascular thrombi in GC patients(P<0.01),and the correlation between lymph node metastasis and vascular thrombi was more significant(r=0.387).Univariate analysis revealed that the 5-year cumulative survival rate of the positive group was significantly lower than that of the negative group(46.7%vs 73.3%,P<0.01).Multivariate analysis revealed that age,tumor diameter,TNM stage,and vascular thrombus were independent risk factors for the prognosis of GC patients(all P<0.05).Further stratified analysis revealed that the 5-year cumulative survival rate of stage Ⅲ GC patients in the thrombolase-positive group was significantly lower than that in the thrombolase-negative group(36.1%vs 51.4%;P<0.05).CONCLUSION Vascular cancer status is an independent risk factor affecting the prognosis of patients with GC.The combination of vascular cancer suppositories and TNM staging can better judge the prognosis of patients with GC and guide more reasonable treatment.

Analysis of lymph node metastasis and survival prognosis in early gastric cancer patients: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Early gastric cancer(EGC)is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system,and its lymph node metastasis and survival prognosis have been concerning.By retrospectively analyzing the clinical data of EGC patients,we can better under-stand the status of lymph node metastasis and its impact on survival and prog-nosis.AIM To evaluate the prognosis of EGC patients and the factors that affect lymph node METHODS The clinicopathological data of 1011 patients with EGC admitted to our hospital between January 2015 and December 2023 were collected in a retrospective cohort study.There were 561 males and 450 females.The mean age was 58±11 years.The patient underwent radical gastrectomy.The status of lymph node metastasis in each group was determined according to the pathological examination results of surgical specimens.The outcomes were as follows:(1)Lymph node metastasis in EGC patients;(2)Analysis of influencing factors of lymph node metastasis in EGC;and(3)Analysis of prognostic factors in patients with EGC.Normally distributed measurement data are expressed as mean±SD,and a t test was used for comparisons between groups.The data are expressed as absolute numbers or percentages,and the chi-square test was used for comparisons between groups.Rank data were compared using a nonparametric rank sum test.A log-rank test and a logistic regression model were used for univariate analysis.A logistic stepwise regression model and a Cox stepwise regression model were used for multivariate analysis.The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate the survival rate and construct survival curves.A log-rank test was used for survival analysis.RESULTS Analysis of influencing factors of lymph node metastasis in EGC.The results of the multifactor analysis showed that tumor length and diameter,tumor site,tumor invasion depth,vascular thrombus,and tumor differentiation degree were independent influencing factors for lymph node metastasis in patients with EGC(odds ratios=1.80,1.49,2.65,5.76,and 0.60;95%CI:1.29–2.50,1.11–2.00,1.81–3.88,3.87-8.59,and 0.48-0.76,respectively;P<0.05).Analysis of prognostic factors in patients with EGC.All 1011 patients with EGC were followed up for 43(0–13)months.The 3-year overall survival rate was 97.32%.Multivariate analysis revealed that age>60 years and lymph node metastasis were independent risk factors for prognosis in patients with EGC(hazard ratio=9.50,2.20;95%CI:3.31-27.29,1.00-4.87;P<0.05).Further analysis revealed that the 3-year overall survival rates of gastric cancer patients aged>60 years and≤60 years were 99.37%and 94.66%,respectively,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).The 3-year overall survival rates of patients with and without lymph node metastasis were 95.42%and 97.92%,respectively,and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05).CONCLUSION The lymph node metastasis rate of EGC patients was 23.64%.Tumor length,tumor site,tumor infiltration depth,vascular cancer thrombin,and tumor differentiation degree were found to be independent factors affecting lymph node metastasis in EGC patients.Age>60 years and lymph node metastasis are independent risk factors for EGC prognosis.

Analysis of alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyltransferase after radiofrequency ablation of primary liver cancer: A retrospective study

BACKGROUND Changes in alkaline phosphatase(ALP)andγ-glutamyltransferase(GGT)levels in patients with primary liver cancer(PLC)after radiofrequency ablation(RFA).Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor with high incidence worldwide.As a common local treatment,RFA has attracted much attention for its efficacy and influence on liver function.AIM To investigate the effect of serum ALP and GGT levels on the prognosis of patients with PLC treated by RFA.METHODS The preoperative clinical data of 165 patients who were pathologically or clinically diagnosed with PLC and who received RFA in our hospital between October 2018 and June 2023 were collected.The chi-square test was used to compare the data between groups.The Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression were used to analyze the associ-ations between serum ALP and GGT levels and overall survival,progression-free survival(PFS)and clinical characteristics of patients before treatment.RESULTS The 1-year survival rates of patients with normal(≤135 U/L)and abnormal(>135 U/L)serum ALP before treatment were 91%and 79%,respectively;the 2-year survival rates were 90%and 68%,respectively;and the 5-year survival rates were 35%and 18%,respectively.The difference between the two groups was statistically significant(P=0.01).Before treatment,the 1-year survival rates of patients with normal serum GGT levels(≤45 U/L)and abnormal serum GGT levels(>45 U/L)were 95%and 87%,the 2-year survival rates were 85%and 71%,and the 5-year survival rates were 37%and 21%,respectively.The difference between the two groups was statist-ically significant(P<0.001).Serum ALP[hazard ratio(HR)=1.766,95%confidence interval(95%CI):1.068-2.921,P=0.027]and GGT(HR=2.312,95%CI:1.367-3.912,P=0.002)is closely related to the overall survival of PLC patients after RF ablation and is an independent prognostic factor.The 1-year PFS rates were 72%and 50%,the 2-year PFS rates were 52%and 21%,and the 5-year PFS rates were 14%and 3%,respectively.The difference between the two groups was statistically significant(P<0001).The 1-year PFS rates were 81%and 56%in patients with normal and abnormal serum GGT levels before treatment,respectively;the 2-year PFS rates were 62%and 35%,respectively;and the 5-year PFS rates were 18%and 7%,respectively,with statistical significance between the two groups(P<0.001).The serum ALP concentration(HR=1.653,95%CI:1.001-2.729,P=0.049)and GGT(HR=1.949,95%CI:1.296-2.930,P=0.001)was closely associated with PFS after RFA in patients with PLC.The proportion of male patients with abnormal ALP levels is high,the Child-Pugh grade of liver function is poor,and the incidence of ascites is high.Among GGT-abnormal patients,the Child-Pugh grade of liver function was poor,the tumor stage was late,the proportion of patients with tumors≥5 cm was high,and the incidence of hepatic encephalopathy was high.CONCLUSION Serum ALP and GGT levels before treatment can be used to predict the prognosis of patients with PLC after RFA,and they have certain guiding significance for the long-term survival of patients with PLC after radiofrequency therapy.

实用下料问题的优化算法

本文针对单一原材料下料问题,讨论了如何在合理的时间内求得一维和二维实用下料问题的较优解。我们实现的是一种改进的以模式为导向的下料方案。以模式为导向的下料方法是相对于以需求为导向的下料方法而言的,即把几种零件组合进行下料,一次切割可得到不同规格的零件,以达到节省原材料的目的。我们的改进是引入了动态权值,具体来说,依据各零件的完成时间要求,赋给每种零件一个权值,而且这个权值会随着下料的进行而不断改变,以调整下料时零件的优先次序。引入动态权值后,不仅能解决时限问题,而且能优化搜索过程。在搜索下料方案的过程中,一维主要采用回溯法搜索部分状态空间,从中找出较优解;二维情形,观察到各种零件的长度比原料的宽度大很多,所以只能按原料的长边方向切割零件的长边,我们运用二叉树前序遍历法去寻找较优解。求得一维问题的下料结果是:需要804块原料,61种下料方式,废料总长度为37012mm,能保证任务按时完成。求得二维问题的解答:需要472块原料,52种下料方式,废料总长度为7340880mm2,能保证任务按时完成。本模型具有操作简便,求解速度快,适应性好等优点,稍稍修改一些初始值就可以适应新的实际情况。算法是用编程来实现的。