Efficacy of Acupuncture on Pain Severity and Frequency of Calf Cramps in Dialysis Patients: a Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Patients with chronic kidney disease, as a common disorder, usually necessitate the implementation of hemodialysis. Muscle cramps are one of the most disabling complications affecting their quality of life. Objectives: We aimed to investigate the efficacy of acupuncture as a safe alternative to the management of pain severity and frequency of calf cramps in dialysis patients compared to a control group. Methods: Fifty dialysis patients experiencing calf cramps who met the eligibility criteria were randomly allocated to two groups. Group A received routine management, including analgesic consumption, stretching exercises, and nine acupuncture sessions, including acupoints BL57, GV26, CV4, CV6, LV3, KI 1, LU7, LU9, and GB34. Group B underwent sham acupuncture therapy at locations other than the primary acupoints in addition to following the specified routine management. The pain severity was measured using the visual analog scale (VAS), and the daily frequency of calf cramps was evaluated at baseline and one month after treatment completion. Results: VAS scores and the frequency of calf cramps were improved one month after treatment completion in both groups. However, the improvement was significant in group A (p < 0.001), while it was not statistically significant in group B (p > 0.05). There was also a significant difference between both groups regarding reducing pain and the frequency of calf cramps, which showed the efficacy of acupuncture compared to the control group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Acupuncture can decrease pain and frequency of calf cramps in dialysis patients.

Tranexamic acid in total hip arthroplasty: An umbrella review on efficacy and safety.

Purpose: This comprehensive review was conducted to assess the effects of tranexamic acid (TXA) on blood loss, venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk, and wound complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA). Additionally, it sought to evaluate the effects of various TXA dosages, modes of administration, and combinations with other antifibrinolytic drug. Methods: In search of systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the use of TXA in THA patients, we searched extensively through databases including Scopus, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, the Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar. We discovered 23 meta-analyses covering 32,442 patients overall that fulfilled our study criteria, spanning the period from the creation of these databases until May 2023. Results: This comprehensive review's meta-analyses, which together examined over 35,000 patients, repeatedly demonstrated how TXA administration during THA successfully lowers perioperative blood loss and the need for transfusions. TXA reduced total blood loss by an average of 151-370 ml, postoperative hemoglobin levels by 0.5-1.1 g/dL, and transfusion rates by 19-26% on average when compared to control groups. The information gathered did not indicate that using TXA significantly increased the risk of VTE or wound complications. When comparing different TXA doses, administration techniques, or its use in conjunction with other anti-fibrinolytic therapies, no discernible differences were found in terms of efficacy or safety outcomes. Conclusion: The comprehensive review clearly indicates that TXA improves THA outcomes without increasing the risk of adverse events by lowering blood loss and the requirement for transfusions. This insightful information can help surgeons decide whether to use TXA during THA procedures.

Problems with opioids beyond misuse.

The U.S. is grappling with an opioid epidemic, with millions of adults on long-term opioid therapy (LTOT). Although patients often report pain relief and improved daily function with opioids, research shows no significant differences in short-term outcomes between opioid and non-opioid users, as well as no long-term opioid benefits. This scoping review aims to identify lesser-known side effects of long-term opioid use and increase awareness of them, allowing healthcare providers and patients to better assess the risks and benefits of opioid use. Our data search from PubMed and Google Scholar used keywords related to opioids, chronic pain, hypogonadism, endocrinopathies, cancer progression, cardiovascular events, renovascular events, sleep disturbances, mood disorders and others, narrowing down to English-language full articles published from January 2018 to April 2023. This review emphasizes the probable serious adverse consequences of long-term opioid use on various body systems in patients with chronic pain. Given the lack of long-term benefits and significant adverse effects, our review underscores the critical need for healthcare providers to include these risks in discussions with patients when considering the long-term use of opioid therapy.

Nano-hydroxyapatite structures for bone regenerative medicine: Cell-material interaction.

Bone tissue engineering holds great promise for the regeneration of damaged or severe bone defects. However, several challenges hinder its translation into clinical practice. To address these challenges, interdisciplinary efforts and advances in biomaterials, cell biology, and bioengineering are required. In recent years, nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA)-based scaffolds have emerged as a promising approach for the development of bone regenerative agents. The unique similarity of nHA with minerals found in natural bones promotes remineralization and stimulates bone growth, which are crucial factors for efficient bone regeneration. Moreover, nHA exhibits desirable properties, such as strong chemical interactions with bone and facilitation of tissue growth, without inducing inflammation or toxicity. It also promotes osteoblast survival, adhesion, and proliferation, as well as increasing alkaline phosphatase activity, osteogenic differentiation, and bone-specific gene expression. However, it is important to note that the effect of nHA on osteoblast behavior is dose-dependent, with cytotoxic effects observed at higher doses. Additionally, the particle size of nHA plays a crucial role, with smaller particles having a more significant impact. Therefore, in this review, we highlighted the potential of nHA for improving bone regeneration processes and summarized the available data on bone cell response to nHA-based scaffolds. In addition, an attempt is made to portray the current status of bone tissue engineering using nHA/polymer hybrids and some recent scientific research in the field.

Effects of Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation on Fecal Incontinence: An Umbrella Review.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to summarize relevant data from previous systematic reviews (SRs) and conduct comprehensive research on the clinical effects of posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS), via the transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (TPTNS) or percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PPTNS) method on fecal incontinence (FI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In adherence to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines, a systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. We included English-language, full-text SRs reporting outcomes for FI following either PPTNS or TPTNS. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. In addition, reanalyzing the meta-analyses was conducted using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software version 3.0 to achieve effect sizes and the level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: From a total of 835 citations, 14 SRs met our inclusion criteria. Four of these also conducted a meta-analysis. Most SRs reported an overall improvement in different study parameters, including bowel habits and quality of life. However, there were major inconsistencies across the results. The most studied outcome was FI episodes, followed by incontinence score. The summary outcomes showed no statistically significant changes in comparing PTNS with sham or sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) for FI (p > 0.05). However, the results of subgroup analysis based on the type of intervention in the control group revealed that FI episodes were significantly fewer than in the PTNS arm, whereas PTNS led to fewer episodes of FI than did the sham. In terms of incontinence score, the results showed that PTNS compared with sham did not change the incontinence score; however, SNS improved the score significantly in one eligible study for reanalysis when compared with PTNS (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of the current umbrella review suggest that PTNS can potentially benefit patients with FI. However, this is concluded from studies with a limited population, disregarding the etiology of FI and with limited follow-up duration. Therefore, caution must be taken in contemplating the results.

A massive immature mediastinal teratoma treated with chemotherapy and surgical resection: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Teratoma is a type of germ cell tumor consisting of one or multiple tissues derived from germinal layers. The location and size of the tumor can cause various presentations. Here we report one of the largest ever cases of immature cystic teratoma. CASE PRESENTATION: In this report, we presented a 24-year-old patient with dyspnea, chest pain, nausea, and anorexia. A computed tomography scan revealed a giant, right-sided mass measuring about 190 × 150 × 140 mm. Chemotherapy was initiated for the patient, followed by thoracotomy. Histopathological evaluation revealed the nature of the mass to be an immature mediastinal teratoma. CONCLUSION: the incidence of immature mediastinal teratoma is uncommon, and due to its rarity, the diagnosis needs more profound evaluation studies such as radiological and pathological assessments. Immature teratomas are optimally treated by a combination of chemotherapy and complete resection.

Investigation of the Effects of Acupuncture on Post-Operative Chest Pain after Open Heart Surgery.

Background: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) accounts for more than half of all adult cardiac surgeries worldwide. Post-operative chest pain is a common CABG complication and can cause significant discomfort. Objectives: Because taking large amounts of analgesics can have many side effects, we evaluated whether acupuncture effectively reduces pain and the use of analgesics by CABG patients. Methods: In this clinical trial, 30 patients who had recently undergone CABG were randomly allocated to two groups. For both groups, exercise therapy and routine analgesics were recommended. The intervention group underwent bilateral acupuncture in distinct acupoints, including the HT3, HT4, HT5, HT6, HT7, PC3, PC5, PC6, and PC7 for 10 daily sessions constantly. Visual analog scale (VAS) and analgesic use were evaluated in both groups at baseline and after completing the 10-day treatment. Results: Our analysis revealed significant decreases in the mean VAS scores in both the intervention and the control group, and that the reduction was more significant in the acupuncture group (p < 0.001). Moreover, analgesic use was significantly lower in the acupuncture group when compared with the control group (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our findings highlight acupuncture as an alternative method of controlling CABG-associated post-operative chest pain and reducing the use of analgesics, which might have many side effects.

Effect of a visual dual task on postural stability-A comparative study using linear and nonlinear methods.

Background and Aims: The dual-task experimental paradigm is used to study the attentional demands of postural control. Postural control is impaired in poststroke patients, and dual-task balance studies address the visual needs of postural control in stroke patients. A nonlinear approach can help us understand the overall behavior of the dynamic system. Methods: A total of 20 chronic stroke patients and 20 healthy subjects with similar age, height, and weight participated in this study. The stability and complexity of postural control were assessed using linear and nonlinear methods. All data and parameters (center of pressure [COP] velocity, anteroposterior and mediolateral directions displacement, length of COP path, and phase plane) were analyzed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Results: When postural control was examined based on linear analysis, the results showed that the main effect of the group was not significant, but the main impact of position was significant for all parameters of the COP variation (p < 0.05). Examination of postural control based on nonlinear analysis also showed that the main effect of the group was not significant, and the main effect of status was significant only for the parameters of approximate entropy in both directions and short-term Lyapunov view in the anterior-posterior direction (p < 0.05). Conclusion: According to the results of this study, the assessment of postural control and gait performance in poststroke patients, as well as the dual tasks they have to perform in daily life, is crucial for their independence in activities of daily living.

The relation between epidermal growth factor receptor mutations profiles and smoking patterns in patients with lung adenocarcinoma: A cross-sectional study.

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of lung cancer cases, with smoking being a critical risk factor. The identification of NSCLC patients harboring epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, sensitized to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, has revolutionized treatment plans, resulting in improved clinical responses and reduced chemotherapy toxicity. This study aimed to assess the relationship between EGFR mutations and smoking patterns in patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma referred to major pathologic laboratories. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 217 NSCLC patients aged above 18 years. Molecular abnormalities of the EGFR gene were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction amplification of exons 18-21 accompanied by Sanger sequencing. Then, the data were analyzed using the SPSS 26 software. Logistic regression analysis, χ 2 test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used to evaluate the relation between EGFR mutations and smoking patterns. Results: EGFR mutations were identified in 25.3% of patients, predominantly involving deletion in exon 19 (61.8%). For most of the mutant EGFR patients, the majority were nonsmokers (81.8%), and 52.7% were female patients. Besides, the median duration of smoking was 26 years and the median frequency of smoking was 23 pack-years in the mutant EGFR group, both of which were lower compared to the wild mutant group. Moreover, female gender, current, and heavy smoking were significantly correlated with EGFR mutations based on the univariate logistic regression analysis (p: 0.004, 0.005, and 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: Female gender and nonsmoker status were strongly associated with positive EGFR mutations. While guidelines traditionally recommended EGFR testing primarily for female nonsmokers with advanced NSCLC, our study in line with the recently published evidence has shown a significant prevalence of positive EGFR mutations among male patients and smokers. Therefore, routine mutation testing is suggested for all NSCLC patients. Considering the limited access to EGFR testing laboratories in developing countries, the results of such epidemiological surveys can assist oncologists in choosing the most suitable treatment plan.

COVID-19-associated acute pancreatitis: a systematic review of case reports.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) mainly involves the respiratory system but can also affect the digestive system and cause several gastrointestinal manifestations. Acute pancreatitis has been reported as one of the rare presentations of COVID-19. This study aimed to systematically review case reports on COVID-19-associated acute pancreatitis. METHODS: Publications were retrieved through a comprehensive search in four databases on October 1, 2021. Eligible ones that demonstrated the potential association of acute pancreatitis and COVID-19 were included for data extraction. RESULTS: After screening 855 citations, 82 articles containing 95 cases were included, and their data were extracted. The most common presentation was abdominal pain (88/95, 92.6%), followed by nausea/vomiting (61/95, 64.2%). Mortality was reported in 10.5% of cases. The initial presentation was acute pancreatitis, COVID-19, and concomitant in 32.6% (31/95), 48.4% (46/95), and 18.9% (18/95) of cases, respectively. Among the included cases, acute pancreatitis severity was associated with ICU admission, COVID-19 severity, and the outcome. Also, the initial presentation was associated with COVID-19 severity (P values ˂0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence indicates that acute pancreatitis can present before, after, or concomitant with COVID-19. Appropriate investigations should be performed in cases with suspicious clinical presentations. Longitudinal studies should address whether or not, there is a causative relationship between COVID-19 and acute pancreatitis.

Prevalence of congenital heart disease according to the echocardiography findings in 8145 neonates, multicenter study in southern Iran.

Introduction: Congenital heart disease (CHD), the lethal congenital anomaly in newborns, is multifactorial, with environmental and genetic factors contributing to its occurrence. Although some studies on the prevalence of CHD have been conducted throughout the country, this large-scale study aims to provide information on the prevalence of various types of CHDs in newborns according to the echocardiography findings. Patients and Methods: Over 3 years, 8145 neonates with suspected CHD who underwent echocardiography by a trained pediatric cardiologist were included in this multicenter, cross-sectional observational study. CHD was categorized into two major groups; cyanotic and acyanotic heart disease. The SPSS version 22 software was used to analyze the data with a significance level set at 0.05. Results: Of 8145 neonates who were referred to our centers with CHD symptoms, 6307 were indicated for echocardiography. The mean age of the studied population was 8.5 ± 9.3 days and the male-to-female ratio was 2.6, especially in the arterial septal defect (ASD), ventricular septal defect (VSD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) groups. 77.2% of patients had acyanotic heart disease (100 in 1000 neonates) with ASD as the most common one and 9% were diagnosed with cyanotic heart disease (11 in 1000 neonates) with transposition of the great arteries as the most common form and the aortopulmonary window was the rarest form. Conclusion: This large prospective, multicenter screening study reported arterial septal defect (85%) and patents with ductus arteriosus (32%) as the most frequent type of CHD. Moreover, the prevalence of male patients was significantly higher. This information would be helpful for health policy makers, stakeholders, and general practitioners in regions where there are no trained pediatric cardiologist fellowships and limited access to echocardiography devices for better management of CHD.