Postgraduate medical journal
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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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Historical Article
Caduceus vs. Rod of Asclepius: A Serpentine Dilemma in Medical Iconography.
This scholarly inquiry delves into the historical significance of two enduring medical symbols: the Rod of Asclepius and the Caduceus. Tracing their origins back to ancient Greek mythology, we uncover their distinct identities and profound meanings as symbols of healing, unity among medical practitioners, and ethical responsibilities. Beyond aesthetics, these emblems serve as powerful educational tools, fostering universal understanding and connecting modern medicine to its historical heritage. Consequently, embracing their true essence can inspire genuine dedication to the noble mission of caring for others.
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Multiple displaced rib fractures often result in a poor prognosis. Open reduction and internal fixation has been shown to provide benefits for patients with displaced rib fractures and flail chest. Nevertheless, for patients who are unwilling or unsuitable for surgery, the therapeutic options are limited. We developed a novel plastic vacuum device for rib fractures external stabilization. This study aims to compare the therapeutic efficacy of this device against a traditional chest strap in polytrauma patients with multiple rib fractures. ⋯ According to the study findings, vacuum external fixation appears to offer benefits to patients with multiple rib fractures, potentially reducing the risk of complications and improving overall clinical 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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High quality feedback should be delivered in a timely manner, based on specific direct observation, and formulated to be actionable on the part of the trainee. Utilizing "confidence" as a point of feedback does not meet these criteria given the ambiguity and lack of actionable steps towards improvement. "Confidence"-based feedback makes a judgment about the trainee's internal state leading to potentially gender or culturally biased feedback. ⋯ We are calling for a moratorium on the utilization of the word "confidence" in feedback in medical education until further studies are performed to assess its potential place. At this time, educators should refrain from "confidence"-based feedback and shift the focus towards more specific, actionable, behavioral-based feedback.