Postgraduate medical journal
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Lack of communication in a family's preferred language is inequitable and results in inferior care. Pediatric residents provide care to many families with non-English or French language preferences (NEFLP). There is no data available about how Canadian pediatric residents use interpreters, making it difficult to develop targeted interventions to improve patient experience. ⋯ Residents are more confident in their clinical and communication skills when working with families who share their primary language. Our findings suggest that residents lack the training and confidence to provide equal care to families with varying language preferences. Pediatric training programs should develop curriculum content that targets safe and effective interpreter use while reviewing non-spoken aspects of cultural awareness and safety.
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The diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (MG) in children remains difficult. Circulating small extracellular vesicle (sEV)-derived miRNAs (sEV-miRNAs) have been recognized as biomarkers of various diseases and can be excreted by different cell types. These biomarker candidates also play a vital role in autoimmune diseases via intercellular communication. ⋯ For the first time, we report that plasma-derived sEV-miRNAs may act as novel circulating biomarkers and therapeutic targets in pediatric MG.
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Psoas abscess (PA) is an uncommon disease that has been increasingly reported in the recent years. We reviewed patients with PA and analyzed their clinical characteristics to improve our understanding of this rare disorder. ⋯ PA, as a serious infectious condition, usually presents with nonspecific symptoms and laboratory test results, making early diagnosis difficult. These profiles differed from those reported in the present study. The initial clinical status and subsequent imaging studies can lead to favorable outcomes.
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Larger proportions of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients are currently overweight or with obesity than underweight, and the combination of COPD and obesity is increasing. The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in the body composition, pulmonary function tests, exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life among normal weight, overweight, and obese patients with COPD. ⋯ According to our study, obesity has no negative effect on pulmonary function tests, dyspnea perception, exercise capacity, and health-related quality of life.
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Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) stands as a leading cause of irreversible blindness, particularly affecting central vision and impeding daily tasks. This paper provides a thorough exploration of AMD, distinguishing between its two main subtypes-Wet and Dry AMD-while shedding light on the prevalence and risk factors, including age, genetics, and smoking. The focus shifts to the current and future treatment landscape, examining both Dry and Wet AMD. ⋯ Furthermore, patient perspectives on artificial intelligence demonstrate a positive correlation between understanding and trust. The narrative concludes with a glimpse into ground-breaking technologies, including retinal implants and bionic chips, offering hope for vision restoration. Overall, this paper underscores the multifaceted approach in addressing AMD, combining traditional and innovative strategies, paving the way for a more promising future in AMD treatment.