The Journal Of International Medical Research[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Atypical infective endocarditis complicated by bacterial meningitis: A case report and literature review.
Yang L, Chen X, Jia A … +2 more , Liu Q, Chu J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42136553 · Full text
Infective endocarditis caused by complicated by bacterial meningitis is exceedingly rare. We report a case of a middle-aged man who initially presented with ischemic symptoms in both lower limbs. Echocardiography reveal...
Infective endocarditis caused by complicated by bacterial meningitis is exceedingly rare. We report a case of a middle-aged man who initially presented with ischemic symptoms in both lower limbs. Echocardiography revealed mitral valvular vegetations, and blood cultures confirmed . During antibiotic therapy, the patient developed somnolence, dysarthria, and left-sided weakness. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing of cerebrospinal fluid detected , thereby confirming infective endocarditis complicated by bacterial meningitis. Given the high surgical risk, combination antimicrobial therapy with vancomycin and ceftriaxone was administered. The patient's consciousness recovered, and inflammatory and cerebrospinal fluid parameters gradually normalized. This case demonstrates that -associated infective endocarditis can occur in patients with immunocompetent status and often involves the mitral valve, with potential intracranial complications. Early identification by blood culture, metagenomic next-generation sequencing, and 16S rRNA sequencing enables precise pathogen diagnosis. Standardized antibiotic therapy and individualized surgical assessment are crucial to optimize outcomes. For patients with neurological complications, multidisciplinary management is essential to improve survival and long-term prognosis.
Effectiveness of adjunctive interventions in patients undergoing rapid maxillary expansion: An umbrella review.
Alhamwi AM, Burhan AS, Nawaya FR
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42136552 · Full text
BackgroundRapid maxillary expansion is widely used to correct transverse maxillary deficiency; however, its biological limitations have led to the use of adjunctive interventions, with inconsistent evidence regarding the...
BackgroundRapid maxillary expansion is widely used to correct transverse maxillary deficiency; however, its biological limitations have led to the use of adjunctive interventions, with inconsistent evidence regarding their effectiveness.ObjectiveThis umbrella review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adjunctive interventions, including low-level laser therapy, platelet-rich plasma, and erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser-assisted osteoperforations, in patients undergoing rapid maxillary expansion and identify the best available evidence among conflicting systematic reviews.MethodsOnly systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses were included, while primary clinical studies (randomized controlled trials and non-randomized controlled trials) were excluded. The methodological quality of each review was evaluated utilizing the A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews-2. The Jadad decision algorithm was employed to determine the best available evidence among the conflicting reviews.ResultsFive systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria. Low-level laser therapy demonstrated a significant improvement in osteodensity after 2 months; however, no significant differences were observed at 1 and 3 months. Evidence regarding osteoperforations and platelet-rich plasma remained limited and inconclusive.ConclusionBased on the currently available data, low-level laser therapy offers limited benefits for transverse maxillary expansion, with minimal effects on bone consolidation appearing after 3 months. The effectiveness of osteoperforations with rapid maxillary expansion is uncertain, and evidence for platelet-rich plasma as an adjunct therapy is lacking.
Functional electrical stimulation for unilateral spatial neglect after stroke: A retrospective cohort study.
Li C, Ouyang S, Xia Z … +3 more , Liu C, Li A, Duan W
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42136551 · Full text
ObjectiveFunctional electrical stimulation is a well-established rehabilitation therapy for post-stroke motor dysfunction; however, its clinical value in treating post-stroke unilateral spatial neglect remains unclear.Me...
ObjectiveFunctional electrical stimulation is a well-established rehabilitation therapy for post-stroke motor dysfunction; however, its clinical value in treating post-stroke unilateral spatial neglect remains unclear.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 58 patients with post-stroke unilateral spatial neglect who received either conventional rehabilitation therapy alone (n = 28) or a combination of functional electrical stimulation and conventional rehabilitation (n = 30). Treatment outcomes were assessed using the Catherine Bergego Scale, the Behavioral Inattention Test, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity, and the Modified Barthel Index.ResultsNo significant differences were detected in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Following treatment, both groups demonstrated significant improvements across all outcome measures (p < 0.05). However, the functional electrical stimulation group demonstrated superior improvements in Behavioral Inattention Test (23.70 ± 19.10 vs. 14.93 ± 9.66, p = 0.031), Catherine Bergego Scale (7.07 ± 6.13 vs. 4.11 ± 3.46, p = 0.039), Modified Barthel Index (21.43 ±19.45 vs. 12.43 ± 8.60, p = 0.024), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity (13.40 ±10.10 vs. 7.64 ± 5.02, p = 0.045) compared with the conventional rehabilitation group. In addition, functional electrical stimulation demonstrated a favorable safety profile.ConclusionsThis study provides real-world evidence supporting that functional electrical stimulation may be an effective intervention for post-stroke unilateral spatial neglect.
Delayed sacroiliac joint infection after robot-assisted percutaneous iliac screw fixation for tile type C2 pelvic fractures: A case report and literature review.
Zhang MR, Zeng X, Hu JH … +2 more , Guan JH, Chen HY
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42136550 · Full text
BackgroundPercutaneous iliosacral screw fixation has become the gold standard for surgical stabilization of acute pelvic ring disruptions with unstable posterior pelvic injuries. Wound infection is uncommon owing to shor...
BackgroundPercutaneous iliosacral screw fixation has become the gold standard for surgical stabilization of acute pelvic ring disruptions with unstable posterior pelvic injuries. Wound infection is uncommon owing to shorter operative time, reduced soft-tissue damage, less blood loss, and lower infection rates. Delayed sacroiliac joint infection after robot-assisted percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation is even rarer. We report a case of delayed sacroiliac joint infection after robot-assisted percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation for a tile type C2 pelvic fracture. A 43-years-old man developed recurrent low back pain and intermittent low-grade fever that occurred 10 months postoperatively and lasted 2 months. Symptoms temporarily improved with anti-inflammatory treatment but subsequently worsened, accompanied with chills and high fever (body temperature up to 39.0°C). Computed tomography revealed bone erosion and screw loosening, and inflammatory markers were elevated. The patient underwent open debridement and removal of the screws, followed by implantation of vancomycin- and gentamicin-loaded calcium sulfate beads. Cultures were negative; however, frozen section and pathology confirmed acute and chronic inflammatory infiltrations. The patient responded well to antibiotics and achieved full recovery.ConclusionsDelayed sacroiliac joint infection after robot-assisted percutaneous iliosacral screw fixation is a rare complication. Diagnosis can be challenging owing to the presence of atypical symptoms and negative cultures. Open debridement with removal of fixation and targeted antibiotic therapy can result in successful outcomes.
Acute reversible cognitive dysfunction due to vitamin B12 deficiency: A case report with rare magnetic resonance imaging findings.
Xiong Y, Wang J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42136549 · Full text
Vitamin B12 deficiency can manifest with hematological and neurological abnormalities, though intracranial involvement is less common than spinal cord or peripheral nerve manifestations. We report the case of a man in hi...
Vitamin B12 deficiency can manifest with hematological and neurological abnormalities, though intracranial involvement is less common than spinal cord or peripheral nerve manifestations. We report the case of a man in his 70s who developed acute cognitive decline over 4 days, accompanied with left lower limb weakness and visual disturbances. Neurological examination revealed reduced verbal output, dysarthria, significant cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination score, 7/30), and left lower limb weakness (Medical Research Council grade, 4/5). Laboratory tests showed pancytopenia (white blood cell count, 2.7 × 10/L; red blood cell count, 1.34 × 10/L; hemoglobin level, 6.3 g/dL; platelet count, 55 × 10/L), with macrocytic anemia (mean corpuscular volume, 134 fL; mean corpuscular hemoglobin, 47 pg) and markedly low serum vitamin B12 levels (<83 pg/mL). Brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated distinctive bilateral periventricular hyperintensities on T2‑weighted and diffusion‑weighted imaging, suggestive of cytotoxic edema, a finding often associated with metabolic disturbances. A diagnosis of acute metabolic encephalopathy due to vitamin B12 deficiency was established. Following vitamin B12 supplementation, the patient's symptoms resolved completely (Mini-Mental State Examination score: 24/30, Montreal Cognitive Assessment score, 23/30, adjusted for educational level). This case illustrates that vitamin B12 deficiency can present with acute cognitive dysfunction and may manifest on magnetic resonance imaging as symmetrical periventricular brain cytotoxic edema. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for achieving both clinical and radiographic recovery.
Detection and analysis of antibiotic ointment in the anterior chamber following cataract surgery: A case report and literature review.
Liu H, Chen X, Ma Z … +2 more , Lu J, Li X
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42132208 · Full text
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery can be complicated by the inadvertent introduction of antibiotic ointment into the anterior chamber, resulting in rare but severe complications such as endothelial cell loss. We revie...
Phacoemulsification cataract surgery can be complicated by the inadvertent introduction of antibiotic ointment into the anterior chamber, resulting in rare but severe complications such as endothelial cell loss. We reviewed 35 cases from 23 studies and also presented a case report of an older female with a lipid droplet-like foreign body in the anterior chamber postoperatively. The foreign body was surgically removed and confirmed to contain dexamethasone via ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Clinical data indicated that 82.9% of cases required ointment removal, and 37.1% needed intraocular lens exchange. In the present case, the patient's corneal endothelial cell density decreased, whereas visual acuity remained stable following cataract surgery. The primary causes of endothelial cell loss included contact with white petrolatum, mineral oil present in tobramycin-dexamethasone ointment, and mechanical compression within the anterior chamber. We conclude that antibiotic eye ointment should not be used immediately after cataract surgery, and prompt removal is recommended if ointment is detected in the anterior chamber. To reduce intraocular lens contamination, ointment removal surgery should be performed without preoperative pupil dilation. Vigilance and timely intervention are essential, given the potential severity of these rare complications.
Faricimab for choroidal neovascular membrane secondary to choroidal osteoma: A case report.
Al Adel F, Alnfaiei JS, Alzahrani AA … +1 more , Alotaibi WN
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130115 · Full text
Choroidal osteoma is a rare, benign ossifying tumor of the choroid. As the disease progresses, significant visual loss may occur. Approximately one-third of patients with choroidal osteoma develop a choroidal neovascular...
Choroidal osteoma is a rare, benign ossifying tumor of the choroid. As the disease progresses, significant visual loss may occur. Approximately one-third of patients with choroidal osteoma develop a choroidal neovascular membrane. Choroidal neovascular membrane-associated exudation and photoreceptor disruption can lead to progressive visual decline. However, no established standard treatment exists, particularly for choroidal neovascular membrane secondary to choroidal osteoma. A healthy male in his 30s with known bilateral choroidal osteomas presented with metamorphopsia and decreased vision in his left eye. Intraretinal fluid and subretinal fluid were detected on optical coherence tomography, and an active choroidal neovascular membrane was identified on optical coherence tomography angiography. Despite monthly intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections of ranibizumab and aflibercept, both intraretinal fluid and subretinal fluid persisted. The treatment was therefore switched to intravitreal faricimab, resulting in complete resolution of intraretinal fluid and subretinal fluid. Furthermore, the treatment interval was successfully extended to 16 weeks without recurrence. This case suggests that faricimab may be a viable therapeutic option for choroidal osteoma secondary to choroidal neovascular membrane in selected patients. However, further studies are warranted to confirm its efficacy, durability, and safety.
Role of disturbed structural connectivity network in patients with white matter lesions and cognitive impairment revealed by diffusion-tensor magnetic resonance imaging.
Ning X, Wu M, Tan J … +6 more , Feng M, Zhou Q, Fan Z, Wan L, Zhang L, Wang J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130114 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare small-world network attributes between control participants without memory complaints and patients with white matter lesions showing cognitive impairment.MethodsChanges in diffusion t...
ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare small-world network attributes between control participants without memory complaints and patients with white matter lesions showing cognitive impairment.MethodsChanges in diffusion tensor imaging and white matter fiber bundles in patients were analyzed. Brain structural network was constructed based on diffusion tensor imaging data, and topological properties of whole-brain small-world network were discussed. The damaged brain areas of patients with white matter lesions were studied, and the correlation between white matter lesion-related brain structural network abnormalities and cognitive impairment severity was discussed.ResultsCompared with the normal control with normal cognition group, fractional anisotropy was significantly reduced in the white matter lesions-non-dementia vascular cognitive impairment (WMLs-VCIND) and white matter lesions-vascular dementia (WMLs-VaD) groups, while mean diffusivity and radial diffusivity values were significantly increased ( < 0.05). The small-world network attributes demonstrated significant changes in λ/γ/σ values compared with the normal control with normal cognition group ( < 0.05). In the WMLs-VaD group, brain areas with reduced node-efficiency were mainly concentrated in the posterior cingulate gyrus, posterior cingulate gyrus, middle and superior lobes of right occipital region, superior lobe of the left occipital region, and right thalamus ( < 0.05). Nodal efficiencies in the WMLs-VaD group were lower than those in the WMLs-VCIND group ( < 0.05). All small-world parameters were significantly correlated with the total Mini-Mental State Examination and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores.ConclusionsThere was extensive and subtle white matter fiber bundle damage in patients with white matter lesions. The brain structural network of patients with white matter lesions had small-world characteristics, and a reduction in small-world properties was related to reduction in cognitive function scores.
Impact of different stress paradigms on irritable bowel syndrome: Evidence from clinical and animal studies.
Zheng M, Sun S, Lv B
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130113 · Full text
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, a condition significantly influenced by stress. Based on the brain's percepti...
Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, a condition significantly influenced by stress. Based on the brain's perception and response to stressors, stress can be categorized into physical stress and psychological stress. Accordingly, this narrative review focuses on elucidating the effects of different stress paradigms on irritable bowel syndrome. Stress activates the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine system and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, contributing to symptom onset and progression. Physically, stress disrupts intestinal homeostasis and promotes low-grade inflammation, leading to the emergence of gastrointestinal symptoms, which typically occur following intestinal infection or in the context of inflammatory bowel disease. Psychologically, stress can trigger mental symptoms such as anxiety and depression, which share a bidirectional causal relationship with irritable bowel syndrome; antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy have been shown to be effective in managing irritable bowel syndrome. Early adverse life events may heighten stress sensitivity and increase irritable bowel syndrome risk. Animal models employing psychosocial or physical stressors have demonstrated that stress induces visceral hypersensitivity and brain-gut axis dysregulation through mechanisms including intestinal barrier impairment, mild inflammation, microbiota disruption, and altered neural signaling. These insights support integrated strategies for the prevention and management of irritable bowel syndrome.
Hepatoprotective effects and mechanistic basis of cinnamaldehyde in preclinical liver disease models: A systematic review.
Li J, Chen W, Lai Q … +1 more , Zhao H
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130112 · Full text
ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the preclinical evidence on the hepatoprotective effects of cinnamaldehyde and summarize the key biological mechanisms underlying its actions across different liver disease settings.Me...
ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the preclinical evidence on the hepatoprotective effects of cinnamaldehyde and summarize the key biological mechanisms underlying its actions across different liver disease settings.MethodsA systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases from inception through January 2026. Studies were considered eligible if cinnamaldehyde was used as the main intervention in liver-related disease or injury models and reported at least one liver-relevant outcome was reported. Data extraction and study selection were performed independently by two reviewers. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2.0.ResultsA total of 454 records were identified, of which 9 studies met the eligibility criteria for qualitative synthesis. All included studies were preclinical, comprising in vivo, in vitro, or combined designs. The evidence covered liver fibrosis, metabolic liver injury or steatosis, infection-associated liver injury, and hepatic encephalopathy. Across these settings, cinnamaldehyde was consistently associated with improved liver biochemical indices, attenuation of histopathological injury, and reductions in steatosis, collagen deposition, inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Mechanistically, the reported effects involved several pathways associated with fibrogenesis, metabolic regulation, inflammatory signaling, and liver-brain axis dysfunction.ConclusionCurrent preclinical evidence supports the use of cinnamaldehyde as a promising hepatoprotective compound with multitarget activity across several liver injury contexts. However, the available data remain limited to experimental studies; therefore, further studies are warranted to clarify its pharmacological profile, cell-specific mechanisms, and translational relevance. The protocol was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database (CRD420261346515).
Effects of project management in labeling standardization for new reusable medical device packages: A retrospective study.
Yong T, Yi L, Pan W … +3 more , Yuan C, Zhao X, Zhang J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130111 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study aimed to apply project management to standardize labeling procedures for new reusable medical device packages received by the central sterile supply department and investigate its effect on device ass...
ObjectiveThis study aimed to apply project management to standardize labeling procedures for new reusable medical device packages received by the central sterile supply department and investigate its effect on device assembly quality.MethodsThis was a retrospective study. The central sterile supply department of a women's and children's hospital in China used project management to establish labeling standards and standard operating procedures for new reusable medical device packages from August 2025 to October 2025. Central sterile supply department nurses' awareness rate of labeling standards, pass rate for labeling operations, and assembly defect rate for new device packages before and after project management implementation were compared.ResultsProject management improved central sterile supply department nurses' awareness of labeling standards to 100% and their pass rate for labeling operations to 100%. The cases of assembly defects caused by missing or nonstandardized labeling information decreased from 16 to 2.ConclusionsProject management helped formulate labeling standards for new medical device packages and standard operating procedures for package labeling. It reduced the assembly defect rate for device packages, improved the assembly quality of sterile items, enhanced the clinical staff's satisfaction with the services of the central sterile supply department, and ensured patient safety.
Stellate ganglion block achieves remission of recurrent head-and-neck plaque psoriasis: A case report.
Liu J, Zhang Z, Liu T
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130110 · Full text
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease, and recurrent lesions involving the head and neck can be particularly difficult to manage in clinical practice. Herein, we report a case of recurrent head-and-...
Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease, and recurrent lesions involving the head and neck can be particularly difficult to manage in clinical practice. Herein, we report a case of recurrent head-and-neck plaque psoriasis treated with stellate ganglion block, an autonomic neuromodulatory intervention. A woman in her 40s had a 6-year history of relapsing plaque psoriasis despite treatment with topical calcipotriol and targeted narrowband ultraviolet-B (UV-B) phototherapy. She declined biologic therapy because of safety concerns. She presented with new erythematous, pruritic plaques on the scalp and neck. Physical examination showed well-defined erythematous, scaly plaques on the forehead, retroauricular regions, and neck. Ultrasound-guided stellate ganglion block was performed with 5 mL of 1% lidocaine, injected alternately into the left and right stellate ganglia once daily for 6 consecutive days. Based on the initial response, a second course was administered, and all other psoriasis treatments were discontinued. Pruritus improved substantially within 48 h of treatment initiation, followed by progressive resolution of erythema and scaling. Complete clearance of the lesions was achieved after two courses of stellate ganglion block. No adverse events were observed, and the patient remained in stable remission during 3 months of follow-up. Although limited to a single case, this observation suggests that stellate ganglion block represents a potential adjunctive therapeutic strategy for patients with recurrent head-and-neck plaque psoriasis. Further studies are warranted to define its efficacy, safety, and mechanistic basis.
Global trends, epidemiological patterns, and disability burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-related cirrhosis from 1990 to 2021: A comprehensive analysis of the Global Burden of Disease study.
Wang X, Wang B
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42130109 · Full text
ObjectivesTo assess long-term global trends in the burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-related cirrhosis and develop a simplified, waist circumference-based prediction model for early ident...
ObjectivesTo assess long-term global trends in the burden of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-related cirrhosis and develop a simplified, waist circumference-based prediction model for early identification of individuals at risk of advanced liver fibrosis.DesignThis study combined (i) ecological time-series analysis using Global Burden of Disease 2021 data (1990-2021) and (ii) cross-sectional analysis of population-based survey data (NHANES 2021-2023). A waist circumference-based logistic regression model was developed and validated to predict metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-related advanced fibrosis, with subgroup evaluation and model calibration.SettingGlobal analyses were based on Global Burden of Disease data across all World Health Organization regions and income groups. U.S.-based analyses used NHANES, a nationally representative health and nutrition survey, with data collected in community and outpatient settings across multiple states.ParticipantsThe Global Burden of Disease analysis included global population-level estimates from 204 countries. The NHANES component involved 11,933 adults aged ≥20 years, with subgroups defined by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease status, age, sex, and race/ethnicity. Exclusion criteria included viral hepatitis and excessive alcohol use.InterventionsThis was an observational study with no interventions. The waist circumference-based predictive model served as an analytic tool rather than a clinical intervention.Primary and secondary outcome measures: The primary outcomes were temporal trends in disability-adjusted life years attributable to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease-related cirrhosis and the performance of a waist circumference-based prediction model for advanced fibrosis (≥9.5 kPa by transient elastography). Secondary outcomes included subgroup-specific model performance (area under the curve, calibration) and comparison of metabolic profiles between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and non-metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease participants.
Electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta suppresses hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in cardiomyocytes.
Liu J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42103329 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the role of the electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.MethodsAn ischemia-reperfusion model was established in H9c2 cardiomyocytes...
ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the role of the electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury.MethodsAn ischemia-reperfusion model was established in H9c2 cardiomyocytes using hypoxia/reoxygenation. Myocardial injury was assessed by measuring the levels of creatine kinase-MB, cardiac troponin I, cardiac troponin T, and lactate dehydrogenase. Apoptosis was evaluated via terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling staining and Annexin V-PE/7-AAD flow cytometry. Mitochondrial morphology was observed via transmission electron microscopy, while mitochondrial function was assessed by measuring reactive oxygen species and membrane potential. Oxidative stress markers and apoptosis-related proteins were also assessed.ResultsHypoxia/reoxygenation treatment significantly increased the levels of myocardial injury markers and downregulated electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta expression. The model group exhibited enhanced apoptosis, impaired mitochondrial structure, elevated reactive oxygen species levels, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, and increased oxidative stress. Overexpression of electron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta effectively reversed these changes: it reduced the injury markers, decreased apoptosis, improved mitochondrial morphology and function, attenuated oxidative stress, and modulated the expression of apoptosis-related proteins.ConclusionsElectron transfer flavoprotein subunit beta protects against myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury by ameliorating mitochondrial dysfunction, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting apoptosis, identifying it as a potential therapeutic target.
Effects of robot-assisted task-oriented training on upper limb function and activities of daily living in patients with stroke: A systematic review.
Cho YH, Lee MH, Cha YJ
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42103328 · Full text
ObjectiveThis study was undertaken to systematically examine the effects of robot-assisted, task-oriented training on upper limb function and activities of daily living in patients with stroke.MethodsA systematic search...
ObjectiveThis study was undertaken to systematically examine the effects of robot-assisted, task-oriented training on upper limb function and activities of daily living in patients with stroke.MethodsA systematic search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, CINAHL, and Ovid LWW databases in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, including literature published from 2014 to 2025. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials that compared an experimental group receiving robot-assisted task-oriented training with a control group undergoing conventional treatment or alternative interventions and evaluated upper limb function and activities of daily living outcomes. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the literature. This systematic review was registered with the Open Science Framework (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/4DT6G).ResultsTen studies were included in the analysis. Robot-assisted interventions consistently improved upper extremity motor function, particularly when implemented as an adjunct to conventional therapy or integrated with advanced technologies such as functional electrical stimulation. However, activities of daily living-related improvements varied across studies, and functional improvements were confirmed in only three studies. The effectiveness of robotic intervention depended on the intervention modality, stroke phase, and technological integration.ConclusionsRobot-assisted task-oriented training can effectively improve upper limb function in patients with stroke, and in some cases, combining it with conventional therapy may produce synergistic effects. Nevertheless, evidence regarding improvements in activities of daily living and long-term maintenance effects remains limited. Further high-quality randomized trials focusing on optimizing specific clinical dimensions and facilitating the transfer of motor recovery to activities of daily living are required.
Prognostic biomarkers for lung adenocarcinoma based on Mendelian randomization analysis.
Yang LR, Li TT, Teng ZW … +4 more , Peng XH, Liu Y, Chen L, Fan J
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42103327 · Full text
BackgroundLung adenocarcinoma is a multifaceted disease with diverse locations and timings of gene mutations, histology, and molecular pathogenesis. Thus, identifying therapeutic target genes for lung adenocarcinoma has...
BackgroundLung adenocarcinoma is a multifaceted disease with diverse locations and timings of gene mutations, histology, and molecular pathogenesis. Thus, identifying therapeutic target genes for lung adenocarcinoma has become a major challenge.MethodWe downloaded the gene expression profiles of 220 patients with lung adenocarcinoma from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and identified the differentially expressed genes between noncancer tissue and cancer tissue groups. Mendelian randomization analysis was performed using the exposure gene expression quantitative trait locus dataset and outcome dataset (ieu-a-965) to obtain genome-wide association studies summary data. Sensitivity analysis was used to assess the presence of pleiotropy and heterogeneity in the instrumental variables. Additionally, we performed Mendelian randomization analysis to explore the potential intersecting genes between differentially expressed and specific genes. Moreover, gene set enrichment and overall survival analyses were performed on the intersection gene.ResultsWe combined Gene Expression Omnibus and genome-wide association studies data to identify one upregulated and two downregulated genes associated with lung adenocarcinoma risk using inverse variance weight analysis as the primary analytical method. We observed that survival was significantly higher in the groups with high expressions of and than in those with low expressions of these genes. demonstrated inconsistency with the results obtained using Kaplan-Meier analysis and lacked statistical significance in the GSE130779 cohort.ConclusionOur results confirmed two specific target genes, and based on Mendelian randomization analysis, providing new insights into the role of these target genes in mediating the development of lung adenocarcinoma.
Atrichia with papular lesions in Syrian siblings exposing global diagnostic challenges in genetic alopecia: A rare case report.
Alibrahim NH, Qatza A, Dukhan A … +2 more , Almoustafa M, Douri T
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42103326 · Full text
Atrichia with papular lesions is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by complete, irreversible hair loss that typically begins in infancy and is often misdiagnosed due to phenotypic similarity to othe...
Atrichia with papular lesions is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by complete, irreversible hair loss that typically begins in infancy and is often misdiagnosed due to phenotypic similarity to other forms of alopecia. A 4-year-old male patient presented with complete hair loss since infancy, with absent eyebrows and eyelashes and no evidence of regrowth. His younger sister exhibited identical features, consistent with a history of consanguinity in the family. Physical examination revealed smooth skin and multiple firm, painless, keratotic papules (2-3 mm) on the scalp and cheeks. A 4-mm punch biopsy demonstrated an absence of mature hair follicles, replaced by keratin-filled cysts without significant inflammation. These histopathological findings, together with the clinical presentation, supported a high-likelihood diagnosis of atrichia with papular lesions. Established diagnostic criteria supported this assessment even in the absence of human hairless gene testing, particularly in consanguineous families in resource-limited settings. The family received counseling regarding the irreversible nature of the condition and was offered psychological support. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges encountered in resource-limited settings and proposes a clinical framework that prioritizes heightened clinical awareness and targeted screening in high-risk populations, including consanguineous families with a history of atrichia with papular lesions or other autosomal recessive skin disorders.
Perceptions regarding the use of cannabis in orthopaedics for treating musculoskeletal joint pain: A survey of arthritis patients.
Gjorgjievski M, Madden K, Tushinski D … +8 more , Adili A, Bullen C, Koziarz F, Koziarz A, de Freitas L, Li S, Bhandari M, Johal H
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42093160 · Full text
There is renewed interest in investigating the analgesic properties of cannabis for musculoskeletal joint pain; however, available data remain limited. This cross-sectional study was designed with the objective of evalua...
There is renewed interest in investigating the analgesic properties of cannabis for musculoskeletal joint pain; however, available data remain limited. This cross-sectional study was designed with the objective of evaluating patients' perceptions regarding the effect of cannabis on arthritis pain. Patients with arthritis pain presenting at one of three orthopedic clinics were asked to complete the study questionnaire. Outcomes were the perceived effect of cannabis on arthritic pain (measured using the continuous visual analog scale, with scores ranging from 0% to 100%) and association between preferences, attitudes, and barriers to the clinical use of cannabis for arthritic pain (evaluated using multivariable linear regression analyses). Sample size was also calculated using multivariable regression analysis. The study included 406 patients, including 105 (26.3%) who had already previously used cannabis for medical purposes and 63 (15.8%) who had used it during the past year. Approximately one-third of the patients who were prescribed opioids (78/256, 30.5%) had used them in the last week. On an average, patients stated that cannabis could treat 53.6% ± 2.6% of their pain (95% confidence interval = 51.1%-56.1%) and helped them replace 50.4% ± 3.2% of their analgesic medications (95% confidence interval = 47.2%-53.6%). Additionally, 88.8% of the patients (135/152) believed that cannabis would aid pain management. Individuals who had used cannabis for medical purposes (odds ratio = 7.2, 95% confidence interval = 1.6-12.8, = 0.001) and patients reporting more severe baseline pain (β = 0.2 per point, 95% confidence interval = 0.1-0.3, = 0.012) were more likely to report meaningful pain improvement. A quarter of the patients with arthritis already used cannabis, and many patients regarded cannabis as an effective pain treatment option. Patient preferences regarding administration and distribution, timing, and indications may help inform clinicians regarding the optimal utilization of cannabis in patients with joint and arthritis pain.
Persistent primitive trigeminal artery cavernous sinus fistula coexisting with left vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm: A case report.
Wen CC, Jiang RS, Wen SJ
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42087745 · Full text
A 41-years-old woman presented with left-sided headache, diplopia, and ptosis of the left eyelid. Cerebral computed tomography angiography revealed a left persistent primitive trigeminal artery cavernous sinus fistula an...
A 41-years-old woman presented with left-sided headache, diplopia, and ptosis of the left eyelid. Cerebral computed tomography angiography revealed a left persistent primitive trigeminal artery cavernous sinus fistula and a dissecting aneurysm in the V4 segment of the left vertebral artery. Digital subtraction angiography confirmed the diagnosis. The fistula was successfully occluded using dual-microcatheter coil embolization combined with Onyx-18 injection, assisted by balloon protection of the internal carotid artery. The vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm was managed conservatively by administering dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin (100 mg/day) and clopidogrel (75 mg/day) for 3 months). Follow-up imaging at 11 months demonstrated complete resolution of the aneurysm.
Brucellar spondylodiscitis mimicking lumbar discectomy with cauda equina syndrome: A case report.
Han X, Chen G
J Int Med Res · 2026 May · PMID 42087744 · Full text
Brucellar spondylodiscitis frequently poses diagnostic challenges due to its atypical early clinical manifestations, which may mimic degenerative spinal diseases. This report described a 42-year-old male patient who init...
Brucellar spondylodiscitis frequently poses diagnostic challenges due to its atypical early clinical manifestations, which may mimic degenerative spinal diseases. This report described a 42-year-old male patient who initially presented with severe low back pain and acute cauda equina syndrome and was preoperatively diagnosed with lumbar disc herniation. Emergency lumbar decompression was performed; however, the patient later developed fever and systemic symptoms. Repeated serological testing confirmed brucellosis. The early clinical, laboratory, and imaging features were nonspecific, and initial inflammatory markers and bacterial cultures were negative. Empirical levofloxacin may have masked inflammatory responses. This case highlights the importance of maintaining high index of suspicion for brucellar spondylodiscitis in endemic regions, even in the absence of systemic signs of infection. Repeat serologic testing, careful radiological evaluation, and attention to epidemiological exposure are critical for early and accurate diagnosis.
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