Papers by Austin Publishing Group
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Nov 15, 2024
Background: Patient engagement refers to the actively involvement of individuals in their own tre... more Background: Patient engagement refers to the actively involvement of individuals in their own treatment, decision-making, and partnering with healthcare providers. Due to the progress of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a groundbreaking shift happening in healthcare that is bringing numerous benefits to patients and health systems. AI technologies are not only used as instruments in healthcare but also evolving into collaborators for diagnosing and treating patients, as well as enhancing the quality of services, offering a personalized, timely, and interactive healthcare experience. This article delves into how AI is changing patient engagement by increasing effectiveness and catering to individual patient requirements. Methods: The research made use of previously published materials on artificial intelligence, data, and robotic technologies in healthcare settings to explore ways in which patients can be effectively involved in the advancement of these technologies in healthcare settings. Results: AI-powered decision support systems improve healthcare operations by giving instant access to data analysis and medical advice, ultimately aiding in making decisions based on real-time evidence. AI enables proactive healthcare interventions by detecting potential health issues in real time, allowing for remote patient monitoring. Motivating patients to actively participate can result in improved adherence to the treatment plan. Overall, patient engagement appears to be the most well-developed and progressive concept for enabling patients to participate actively in their healthcare. Conclusions: AI technologies are more than just tools in healthcare; they are evolving into collaborators in patient involvement, providing a personalized, proactive and engaging healthcare journey. Further evidence is required to comprehend how patients engage in the process and if this leads to better quality of care. In the dynamic health sector, change management is essential for continuously updating and adjusting healthcare facilities to address the evolving needs of patients. Health systems that do not adjust to changes in a timely manner are unsuccessful.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Dec 2, 2024
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by uncontrolled proliferation... more Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of renal cells, with the consequent formation of cysts and loss of renal function. Matrine has the effect of regulating autophagy, and is considered to regulate inflammatory responses and cyst formation. Therefore, in this study we focused on the pathological mechanism of matrine-regulated autophagy in polycystic kidney disease, and identified some autophagy-regulated genes. We also performed transcriptome sequencing of matrine-treated mouse renal epithelial cells (IMCD3). The pathway analysis results showed that signal transduction, including adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocytes, Hippo signaling pathway, and calcium signaling pathway, which are closely related to autophagy, comprises the main pathological changes of IMCD3 cells treated with matrine. These results indicate that exaggerated autophagy participates in the pathological process of polycystic kidney disease, and may provide new insight for further basic research on PKD.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Apr 16, 2024
Background: Platelet indices have been recently used to predict outcomes for critically ill patie... more Background: Platelet indices have been recently used to predict outcomes for critically ill patients but Pediatric data is limited. We aimed to evaluate role of platelet indices in diagnosis of sepsis and predicting prognosis among critically ill children. Methods: This was prospective observational study conducted on 133 children admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of a tertiary center. Patients were evaluated on admission by routine laboratory biomarkers and clinical risk score, in addition to platelet indices, namely Mean Platelet Volume (MPV), Platelet Distribution Width (PDW), and Plateletcrit (PCT). Patients were followed up till hospital discharge. Primary outcome was PICU mortality. Results: 133 patients were recruited.47.4% had sepsis; 7.5% had non-infectious Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS); and 45.1% had no SIRS. No Significant difference in all platelet indices was observed between sepsis, non-infectious SIRS, and non-SIRS. MPV was significantly higher among non-survivors compared with survivors [median and IQR: 8.2(7.7-9.9)] but no significant difference was found between the two groups in PCT and PDW. Serum albumin, platelet count, and WBC were significantly lower among non-survivors.Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that mechanical ventilation and serum albumin are independent predictors of mortality [ORand 95% CI: 37.1(4.4-311.7) and 0.26(0.09-0.72) respectively]. MPV and PDW were positively correlated, while PCT were negatively correlated, with pSOFA score [Rs: 0.21, 0.17,-0.22; p=0.017, 0.048, 0.009]. Conclusion: Platelet indices have no value for diagnosis of sepsis but they possess some prognostic value. However, mechanical ventilation and serum albumin are independent far superior as prognostic indicators.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Jul 7, 2024
Many diseases, including liver fibrosis, have a direct connection to gut dysbiosis. The liver, wh... more Many diseases, including liver fibrosis, have a direct connection to gut dysbiosis. The liver, which interacts with the intestinal tract most closely, is exposed to the gut microbiome or their metabolites. An altered gut microbiome was found to be associated with several liver complications, including liver fibrosis. Age, diet, environment, use of antibiotics, and stress can all change the Gut Microbiota's (GM) composition. The severity of liver steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis may be influenced by this dysbiosis through a variety of interactions with the host's immune system and other cell types. This review explores the TCM formulations that regulate GM as a potential anti-fibrotic mechanism. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed the basic research from the last 20 years and found that herbal TCMs (including hawthorn, Si-Wu-Tang, ganshuang granules, yinchenhao decoction, sanwei ganjiang powder, and huang qi decoction) have potential clinical efficacy against liver fibrosis by gradually exerting the regulatory effect on GM. The significant TCM activities include regulating immunity, lowering serum ammonia levels, enhancing lipid metabolism, promoting intestinal barrier integrity and function, and overcoming fibrogenesis of the liver. The underlined functions are all highly correlated to the TLR4 signaling cascade and involve ROS, NF-κB, RhoA/ROCK1, and NOX4/ROS. Hence, the underlined herbal TCMs can serve as drug candidates for liver fibrosis therapy by supplementing probiotics and adjusting the balance of GM. However, the underlying complex molecular mechanism of TCM's-regulated GM nexus in liver fibrosis still needs to be explored further.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Aug 14, 2024
Intertrochanteric and periprosthetic fractures are common osteoporotic injuries recognized for th... more Intertrochanteric and periprosthetic fractures are common osteoporotic injuries recognized for their therapeutic complexity and heightened risk of complications. These fractures typically manifest along the continuum from the base of the femoral neck to the level of the lesser trochanter [1]. Intertrochanteric fractures are classified into two primary types: adducted and abducted, with the abducted variant being more frequently observed. Pertrochanteric fractures include a spectrum of injuries within the peritrochanteric region of the femur [2], comprising fractures at the greater and lesser trochanters as well as along the intertrochanteric line.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Oct 21, 2024
We present a case of a 72-year-old patient presenting with recurrent pleural effusion, extensive ... more We present a case of a 72-year-old patient presenting with recurrent pleural effusion, extensive workup revealed amyloidosis to be the cause of this presentation. This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing pleural effusions associated with amyloidosis, particularly in patients with complex medical histories. It underscores the importance of considering amyloidosis in cases of recurrent pleural effusions, especially when combined with systemic organ dysfunction.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Nov 5, 2024
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA)-Associated Vasculitis (AAV) is a spectrum of diseases ... more Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA)-Associated Vasculitis (AAV) is a spectrum of diseases characterized by the inflammation of small-and mediumsized blood vessels. Its renal involvement significantly impacts patient survival and long-term prognosis. AAV-Associated Glomerulonephritis (AAV-GN) is more common in Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA) and Granulomatous Polyangiitis (GPA). Notably, the number of cases progressing to End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) is decreasing annually. However, it remains an unresolved issue in AAV treatment. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment of renal involvement are crucial for AAV prognosis. Immunosuppressive therapies have made AAV a relapsing/remitting disease. And, several clinical trials have standardized the use of glucocorticoids, cyclophosphamide, and immunosuppressive agents, establishing a therapeutic standard of care upon which subsequent targeted therapies have been developed. Based on the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) 2022 recommendations for AAV management, this article summarizes the latest research progress on AAV-GN to provide new research ideas for diagnosis and treatment for the benefit of physicians and patients.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Nov 15, 2024
Background: Patient engagement refers to the actively involvement of individuals in their own tre... more Background: Patient engagement refers to the actively involvement of individuals in their own treatment, decision-making, and partnering with healthcare providers. Due to the progress of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a groundbreaking shift happening in healthcare that is bringing numerous benefits to patients and health systems. AI technologies are not only used as instruments in healthcare but also evolving into collaborators for diagnosing and treating patients, as well as enhancing the quality of services, offering a personalized, timely, and interactive healthcare experience. This article delves into how AI is changing patient engagement by increasing effectiveness and catering to individual patient requirements. Methods: The research made use of previously published materials on artificial intelligence, data, and robotic technologies in healthcare settings to explore ways in which patients can be effectively involved in the advancement of these technologies in healthcare settings. Results: AI-powered decision support systems improve healthcare operations by giving instant access to data analysis and medical advice, ultimately aiding in making decisions based on real-time evidence. AI enables proactive healthcare interventions by detecting potential health issues in real time, allowing for remote patient monitoring. Motivating patients to actively participate can result in improved adherence to the treatment plan. Overall, patient engagement appears to be the most well-developed and progressive concept for enabling patients to participate actively in their healthcare. Conclusions: AI technologies are more than just tools in healthcare; they are evolving into collaborators in patient involvement, providing a personalized, proactive and engaging healthcare journey. Further evidence is required to comprehend how patients engage in the process and if this leads to better quality of care. In the dynamic health sector, change management is essential for continuously updating and adjusting healthcare facilities to address the evolving needs of patients. Health systems that do not adjust to changes in a timely manner are unsuccessful.
Austin Journal of Clinical Medicine, Dec 2, 2024
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by uncontrolled proliferation... more Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic disorder characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of renal cells, with the consequent formation of cysts and loss of renal function. Matrine has the effect of regulating autophagy, and is considered to regulate inflammatory responses and cyst formation. Therefore, in this study we focused on the pathological mechanism of matrine-regulated autophagy in polycystic kidney disease, and identified some autophagy-regulated genes. We also performed transcriptome sequencing of matrine-treated mouse renal epithelial cells (IMCD3). The pathway analysis results showed that signal transduction, including adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocytes, Hippo signaling pathway, and calcium signaling pathway, which are closely related to autophagy, comprises the main pathological changes of IMCD3 cells treated with matrine. These results indicate that exaggerated autophagy participates in the pathological process of polycystic kidney disease, and may provide new insight for further basic research on PKD.
Austin Journal of Clinical Immunology, Jan 15, 2024
Women with antiphospholipid antibodies are at risk of unsuccessful pregnancy outcome, which may i... more Women with antiphospholipid antibodies are at risk of unsuccessful pregnancy outcome, which may include many features such as preeclampsia, premature delivery, intrauterine growth restriction. The risk of thrombosis is higher during the third semester. The standard care in obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome includes aspirin and heparin, which have improved live births significantly, however one small percentage continue to have pregnancy complications. There are many new treatment approaches, but more randomized clinical trials are needed to assess the efficacy and safety. This review aims to highlight the risk factors associating the antiantiphospholipid antibodies in pregnancy, as well the most severe form which is the catastrophic anti-phospholipid syndrome, and therapies currently available, but future directions through personalized new treatments for different aPL profiles, especially high-risk women with comorbidities. Novel promising drugs, with no complications, according to few case reports, are being identified, but we need time to evaluate the results.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 13, 2024
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) is an uncommon affliction of the immune system, predominantly... more Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH) is an uncommon affliction of the immune system, predominantly defined by the atypical proliferation of Langerhans cells various parts of the body. Langerhans cells, integral to the immune system, are typically tasked with the surveillance and elimination of pathogens. In the context of LCH, however, these cells deviate from their normative growth patterns, leading to their unregulated expansion. The etiology of LCH remains obscure, with possible links to genetic predispositions, immunodeficiency, and viral incursions. The clinical manifestations of LCH are protean, primarily presenting as: lymphadenopathy, with enlarged nodes in cervical, axillary, inguinal, and other regions; skeletal involvement, characterized by pain, swelling, and fractures; cutaneous manifestations, such as erythematous papules, plaques, and ulcerations; pulmonary issues, including cough, shortness of breath, and a decline in pulmonary function; and central nervous system impairments, manifesting as headaches, vomiting, vision loss, and paralysis. It is noted that the annual global incidence rate stands at 1 in 200,000 individuals, with the epidemiological data in China yet to be precisely delineated.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 14, 2024
Kümmell's disease, first reported by German physician Herman Kümmell, is characterized as a delay... more Kümmell's disease, first reported by German physician Herman Kümmell, is characterized as a delayed vertebral collapse following trauma [1] and represents a serious complication associated with osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) [2]. This condition is predominantly observed in elderly patients, who often sustain minor spinal trauma that can lead to symptoms such as such as kyphotic deformity collapse, pain, paresthesia, and limitations in functional capabilities as the disease progresses. Under the trend of aging population, the prevalence of Kümmell disease is increasing year by year. In cases of stage III Kümmell disease, the incomplete posterior wall can predispose patients to complications during treatment, particularly during procedures such as Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) or Percutaneous Kyphoplasty (PKP). These complications include cement leakage and displacement, which can exacerbate spinal cord compression [3]. Anterior decompression, while an option, is associated with an elevated risk of visceral injury and infection. Conversely, posterior total spinal surgery is not only lengthy and invasive but may also result in a prolonged rehabilitation period and increased complications. Therefore, the selection of an appropriate surgical intervention is critical in managing Kümmell's disease effectively.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 14, 2024
With the aging of the population and the accelerated pace of social life, knee diseases have beco... more With the aging of the population and the accelerated pace of social life, knee diseases have become a major problem that seriously affects the quality of life among middle-aged and elderly people in China. Among these conditions, knee valgus with knee subluxation stands out as a severe form of knee disease, often characterized by intense pain and restricted joint mobility. The etiology of knee valgus with knee subluxation primarily stems from factors such as knee ligament damage, meniscus injury, joint inflammation. Moreover, long-term joint pathology can induce structural alterations within the knee joint, which in turn triggers knee valgus and subluxation. This condition has a serious impact on the patient's quality of life, manifesting as pain, limited joint function, limping, etc. In severe cases, it may even lead to joint disability.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 15, 2024
Tuberculosis of the pubic bone is a kind of bone tuberculosis, because the pubic bone is located ... more Tuberculosis of the pubic bone is a kind of bone tuberculosis, because the pubic bone is located at the bottom of the pelvis, and its surrounding tissues are rich in blood vessels and nerves, therefore, tuberculosis of the pubic bone is easy to invade the surrounding muscles and fascia, and cause inflammatory reaction. The reason of pubic tuberculosis complicating abscess is mainly caused by the infection of tubercle bacillus. After Mycobacterium tuberculosis invades the pubic bone, due to the poor blood supply of the pubic bone, the bacteria are easy to multiply locally, triggering an inflammatory reaction. As the inflammation intensifies, the local tissues become necrotic and liquefied, forming an abscess. After abscess formation, it will not only lead to increased pain, but may also invade the surrounding nerves and blood vessels, triggering more serious complications.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 15, 2024
Lumbar isthmic cleft, also known as isthmic cleft of the vertebral arch or isthmic discontinuity,... more Lumbar isthmic cleft, also known as isthmic cleft of the vertebral arch or isthmic discontinuity, is a discontinuous bony defect in the isthmus between the upper and lower articular processes of the lumbar vertebral arch. Lumbar isthmic fracture may lead to serious consequences such as lumbar spine instability, slippage and disc herniation, which will bring great trouble to the patient's life and work. First of all, how does lumbar isthmic fracture cause lumbar spondylolisthesis? A lumbar isthmic fracture weakens the connection between the lumbar vertebrae, which can cause the vertebrae to move back and forth, leading to lumbar spondylolisthesis. Lumbar spondylolisthesis is the back-and-forth movement of the upper vertebrae of the lumbar spine in relation to the lower vertebrae, which can compress the nerve roots and lead to symptoms such as pain and numbness. Secondly, lumbar isthmic fracture can also lead to disc herniation.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Jul 15, 2024
Foreign body ingestion is a common emergency in hospitals. Throat injury and gastrointestinal per... more Foreign body ingestion is a common emergency in hospitals. Throat injury and gastrointestinal perforation are common complications, but brain abscesses caused by foreign bodies are very rare. Very few studies have been reported in the literature. A 73-year-old male with a history of more than 1-year of repeated dull pain in the right abdomen. He was treated with brain abscess incision and drainage in a local hospital because of a brain abscess two months earlier. In the small intestine, a high-density band with a diameter of approximately 40 mm was observed by Computed Tomography (CT). During surgery, a fish bone was found in the small intestine, 50cm away from the ileocecal valve, and there was pus and necrotic tissue around the fish bone. At 1-and 3-months follow-up, no abdominal pain or complications were noted.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Jul 25, 2024
Intertrochanteric femoral fracture with peritrochanteric fracture is a common osteoporotic fractu... more Intertrochanteric femoral fracture with peritrochanteric fracture is a common osteoporotic fracture that is difficult to treat and has a high complication rate. Intertrochanteric femoral fracture is a fracture between the base of the femoral neck and the level of the lesser trochanter. Intertrochanteric fractures can be divided into internal and external types, with the external type of fracture being more common. Peri-rotor fractures, on the other hand, are fractures in the area around the femur's rotor, including fractures of the greater and lesser trochanter and intertrochanteric line of the femur. Traditional treatments often cannot effectively restore hip function and are prone to complications such as fracture nonunion and hip dysfunction. Artificial hip replacement combined with proximal femoral locking plate has the following advantages in treating intertrochanteric fracture with peritrochanteric fracture: femoral head replacement can effectively restore the function of the hip joint and reduce the occurrence of hip complications, which is especially suitable for elderly patients. Proximal femoral locking plate has good biomechanical stability, which can effectively fix the fracture end and promote fracture healing.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 12, 2024
Gout is a prevalent disease in China that significantly affects
both the physical and mental heal... more Gout is a prevalent disease in China that significantly affects
both the physical and mental health of patients. In recent years,
the incidence of gout has risen annually, correlating with improvements in living standards and dietary changes. This trend
is accompanied by an increase in the prevalence of gout stone.
I During the early stages of gout, urate crystals are most likely
to accumulate in the first metatarsophalangeal joint [1]. With
recurrent episodes of the disease, not only do uric acid deposits in the toe joints become exacerbated, but gout stones may
also develop in the knee, wrist, and other anatomical areas [2].
In the advanced stage of gout, these stones can lead to acute
gouty arthritis, resulting in significant destruction of bone joints
and surrounding soft tissues. This article aims to address the
issue of polyarticular gouty stones, highlighting a case involving
severe damage to the bones and soft tissues of the left foot. A
detailed account of this case follows, with a focus on potential
treatment options.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Aug 12, 2024
Idiopathic scoliosis is a common adolescent skeletal condition characterized by an asymmetrical c... more Idiopathic scoliosis is a common adolescent skeletal condition characterized by an asymmetrical curvature on both sides
of the spine. This condition can lead to health issues such as
back pain, breathing difficulties, shoulder asymmetry, and even
affect the patient’s mental health. Orthopedic spine surgery is a
surgical procedure that corrects scoliosis by adjusting the curve
of the spine. During the procedure, special implants, such as
metal rods and pedicle pins, are used to secure and stretch the
spine. This method is effective in correcting scoliosis and improving the patient's appearance and function.
Austin Journal of Clinical Case Reports, Jun 10, 2024
A 55-year-old immunocompetent female presented with shortness of breath for six weeks, ongoing he... more A 55-year-old immunocompetent female presented with shortness of breath for six weeks, ongoing headaches, and localized redness of the left foot that started three days prior to presentation. The workup revealed multiple small pulmonary nodules bilaterally. Serum cocci EIA IgM was positive, indicating acute infection. Due to persistent headaches, a lumbar puncture was performed, which confirmed aseptic meningitis. Furthermore, the patient developed multiple painful, erythematous subcutaneous nodules during the hospital stay. A month ago, our patient presented with shortness of breath symptoms and was treated for community-acquired pneumonia. She developed a rash that was labeled as a penicillin allergyrelated rash. During this admission, she was treated for cellulitis, this time initially when she had erythema nodosum on presentation. The novelty of this case lies in its rarity and the diagnostic dilemma it posed, ultimately leading to successful management through accurate diagnosis. She was initiated on fluconazole 800 mg daily and was doing well at a two-week follow-up. Disseminated coccidioidomycosis with meningitis and erythema nodosum in immunocompetent patients is rare and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Even with complete treatment, the rate of relapse is high, necessitating regular follow-up and monitoring of complement fixation titers.
Uploads
Papers by Austin Publishing Group
both the physical and mental health of patients. In recent years,
the incidence of gout has risen annually, correlating with improvements in living standards and dietary changes. This trend
is accompanied by an increase in the prevalence of gout stone.
I During the early stages of gout, urate crystals are most likely
to accumulate in the first metatarsophalangeal joint [1]. With
recurrent episodes of the disease, not only do uric acid deposits in the toe joints become exacerbated, but gout stones may
also develop in the knee, wrist, and other anatomical areas [2].
In the advanced stage of gout, these stones can lead to acute
gouty arthritis, resulting in significant destruction of bone joints
and surrounding soft tissues. This article aims to address the
issue of polyarticular gouty stones, highlighting a case involving
severe damage to the bones and soft tissues of the left foot. A
detailed account of this case follows, with a focus on potential
treatment options.
of the spine. This condition can lead to health issues such as
back pain, breathing difficulties, shoulder asymmetry, and even
affect the patient’s mental health. Orthopedic spine surgery is a
surgical procedure that corrects scoliosis by adjusting the curve
of the spine. During the procedure, special implants, such as
metal rods and pedicle pins, are used to secure and stretch the
spine. This method is effective in correcting scoliosis and improving the patient's appearance and function.