bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ankle Power Generation Has a Greater Influence on Walking Speed Reserve Than Balance Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Gill Renee , Banky Megan , Williams Gavin
Published: May 2021

Objective:

Reduced walking speed is common following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Walking speed reserve (WSR) refers to the ability to increase walking speed on demand and is calculated as the difference between self-selected and fast walking speeds. Walking speed reserve is important for adaptive functional mobility in the community. Predictors of WSR following TBI are yet to be determined. The aim of the study was to identify whether static balance or ankle power generation (APG) was a stronger predictor of WSR following TBI.

Setting:

A major metropolitan rehabilitation hospital.

Participants:

A total of 92 individuals receiving inpatient physiotherapy for mobility limitations following TBI were recruited.

Design:

A cross-sectional study.

Methods:

Walking speed (self-selected and fast), APG, and a summed single-leg stance scores were measured. The ability to increase walking speed on demand by 0.20 m/s or more defined WSR. Correlations, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed to investigate independent relationships between WSR, APG, and static balance.

Results:

Fifty participants (54.3%) had a WSR of 0.20 m/s or more. The strongest predictor of WSR was APG (odds ratio [OR] = 3.34; 95% CI, 1.50-7.43) when compared with static balance (OR = 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.06). The ROC curve demonstrated that APG could accurately discriminate between individuals with a WSR from those without (AUC [area under the ROC curve] = 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70-0.88). The APG cutoff score identified on the curve that maximized combined sensitivity (92.0%) and specificity (54.8%) was 0.75 W/kg.

Conclusion:

Following TBI, APG was a stronger predictor of WSR than static balance. Clinicians should consider interventions that preferentially target APG in order to increase WSR for community mobility.
COVID-19 Myocarditis
Authors: Kwon Sophia , Alter Eric , Bangalore Sripal , Nolan Anna
Published: May 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), emerged in Wuhan, China, and rapidly led to a global pandemic that affected 213 countries, more than 5.8 million cases, and 360,000 deaths worldwide as of May 28, 2020. The United States currently has the highest number of COVID-19 cases in the world and contributes to nearly a third of the global death rate. The prevalence of COVID myocarditis is unclear but generally considered rare, with estimates up to 7% of COVID-related deaths. However, these patients suffered catastrophic worsening disease with respiratory compromise requiring intubation and often death. We report the case of a patient with COVID-19–induced myocarditis who was successfully treated with dexamethasone and review the literature.
Reactivation of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in a Patient With COVID-19
Authors: Pozdnyakov Alex , Jin Andrew , Bader Mazen
Published: May 2021

Given COVID-19 rise in populations with high burden of tuberculosis infection, the interplay between COVID-19 and tuberculosis reactivation needs further investigation. We report a case of a 64-year-old man who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome due to severe COVID-19 infection. He was managed with intubation, prone-position mechanical ventilation, inhaled nitric oxide, and methylprednisolone 40 mg intravenous twice daily for 5 days. He developed unexplained persistent fever and leukocytosis that failed to respond to empiric broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal agents, and a 3-day course of intravenous methylprednisolone 1000 mg for possible usual interstitial pneumonitis. His endotracheal aspiration samples tested positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and antituberculosis regimen was started. The patient died as result of decision to withdraw life support. This report establishes the clinical picture of a tuberculosis reactivation in a COVID-19 patient. The complex interaction between COVID-19, steroids, and tuberculosis is a clinical dilemma of great significance.
Differential Effectiveness of Atypical Antipsychotics on Hallucinations
Authors: Sinkeviciute Igne , Hugdahl Kenneth , Bartz-Johannessen Christoffer , Kroken Rune Andreas , Løberg Else-Marie , Kjelby Eirik , Rettenbacher Maria Anna , Joa Inge , Reitan Solveig Klæbo , Alisauskiene Renata , Fathian Farivar , Johnsen Erik
Published: May 2021

Background

Most studies investigating antipsychotic effectiveness report either total psychopathology or symptom cluster findings. Studies focusing on a separate symptom, such as hallucinations, a hallmark symptom in schizophrenia, are scarce.

Therefore, the current study aims to compare the antihallucinatory effectiveness of 3 pharmacologically different antipsychotics: olanzapine, amisulpride, and aripiprazole.

Methods

The present study is part of the Bergen-Stavanger-Innsbruck-Trondheim study, a 12-month prospective, randomized, pragmatic antipsychotic drug trial in active-phase schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The primary outcome of the present study was change of hallucinations as measured by item P3 (hallucinatory behavior) from the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale in the subgroup with hallucinations at baseline. Primary analyses were intention to treat.

Results

A total of 144 participants were included in the study, where 105 (72%) had a score of 3 or more on the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale P3 item at baseline, indicating the presence of hallucinations (HALL subgroup).

In the HALL subgroup, a significantly less reduction of hallucinations was revealed for participants using olanzapine in weeks 12, 26, 39, and 52 when compared with amisulpride and in weeks 26 and 52 when compared with aripiprazole. In subanalyses for participants never exposed to antipsychotic drugs (antipsychotic-naive) and those who had used antipsychotics before entering the study, antihallucinatory differences were revealed only in the latter group.

Conclusions

A differential antihallucinatory effect of the 3 study drugs was present. The inferior effect of olanzapine seems to be driven by the subgroup of participants exposed to antipsychotic treatment before entering the study.
Comparing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination Pass Rate of Graduates From Programs Utilizing Distance Education to the National Average
Authors: Forbes Jennifer , Smith Anntara , Papa Jared , Sparrell Marvin
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The goal of this study was to compare the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) pass rate of graduates from physician assistant (PA) programs utilizing distance education to the national average of PANCE pass rates.

Methods

The Physician Assistant Education Association online PA program directory was used to obtain the name and number of physician assistant (PA) programs that offered distance education in their curriculum. The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants PANCE Exam Performance Summary Report was reviewed for each PA program that offered distance education. The 5-year first-time taker mean pass rate for all PA programs offering distance education was calculated and compared to the 5-year national first-time taker average for all PA programs in the United States over the same 5-year period.

Results

The mean 5-year first-time taker pass rate for PA programs offering distance education was 96.9%. The 5-year national first-time taker average pass rate for all PA programs was 96.0%.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that graduates from PA programs utilizing distance education are effectively prepared to pass the PANCE and do so at a rate that is higher than the national mean for all PA programs.
Coach Education Improves Adherence to Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Prevention Programs: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ling Daphne I. , Boyle Caroline , Schneider Brandon , Janosky Joseph , Kinderknecht James , Marx Robert G.
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To determine the effect of an educational workshop on adherence to neuromuscular training (NMT) among high-school coaches.

Design:

Cluster-randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

High school.

Participants:

A total of 21 teams in 8 high schools (unit of randomization) were randomized to the intervention or control group. Twelve boys' and 9 girls' teams in a variety of sports were enrolled.

Intervention:

Coaches in the intervention group participated in a 60-minute education workshop to teach effective implementation of a NMT program and also received print materials. Coaches in the control group received the same print materials.

Main Outcome Measures:

Eight data collectors were trained to observe each team's practice/game 2 to 3 times a week. They completed a study questionnaire to identify the NMT exercise and whether the coach (1) delivered exercise instructions and (2) provided alignment cues (both yes/no).

Results:

A total of 399 practices/games were observed over 2 seasons. A greater proportion of coaches in the intervention group provided alignment cues to correct improper technique compared with the control group {difference = 0.04 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.01-0.07], P = 0.006}. There was a similar proportion of coaches in the intervention and control groups who provided exercise instructions [difference = 0.01 (95% CI, −0.02 to 0.04), P = 0.44]. More coaches in the intervention group completed a full NMT program [OR = 4.62 (1.22, 17.50), P = 0.02].

Conclusions:

Coach education can improve adherence to a NMT program and delivery of alignment cues. Coaches should receive in-person training on NMT and how to deliver alignment cues to their athletes while performing the exercises.
Direct Effects of Lipopolysaccharide on Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Massoumi Roxanne L. , Teper Yaroslav , Ako Soichiro , Ye Linda , Wang Elena , Hines O. Joe , Eibl Guido
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Obesity, a risk factor for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is often accompanied by a systemic increase in lipopolysaccharide (LPS; metabolic endotoxemia), which is thought to mediate obesity-associated inflammation. However, the direct effects of LPS on PDAC cells are poorly understood.

Methods

The expression of toll-like receptor 4, the receptor for LPS, was confirmed in PDAC cell lines. AsPC-1 and PANC-1 cells were exposed to LPS, and differential gene expression was determined by RNA sequencing. The activation of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway by LPS in PDAC cells was assessed by Western blotting.

Results

The expression of toll-like receptor 4 was confirmed in all PDAC cell lines. The exposure to LPS led to differential expression of 3083 genes (426 ≥5-fold) in AsPC-1 and 2584 genes (339 ≥5-fold) in PANC-1. A top canonical pathway affected by LPS in both cell lines was PI3K/Akt/mTOR. Western blotting confirmed activation of this pathway as measured by phosphorylation of the ribosomal protein S6 and Akt.

Conclusions

The exposure of PDAC cells to LPS led to differential gene expression. A top canonical pathway was PI3K/Akt/mTOR, a known oncogenic driver. Our findings provided evidence that LPS can directly induce differential gene expression in PDAC cells.
Auxora for the Treatment of Patients With Acute Pancreatitis and Accompanying Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Bruen Charles , Miller Joseph , Wilburn John , Mackey Caleb , Bollen Thomas L. , Stauderman Kenneth , Hebbar Sudarshan
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To assess the safety of Auxora in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP), systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and hypoxemia, and identify efficacy endpoints to prospectively test in future studies.

Methods

This phase 2, open-label, dose-response study randomized patients with AP, accompanying SIRS, and hypoxemia (n = 21) to receive low-dose or high-dose Auxora plus standard of care (SOC) or SOC alone. All patients received pancreatic contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans at screenings, day 5/discharge, and as clinically required 90 days postrandomization; scans were blinded and centrally read to determine AP severity using computed tomography severity index. Solid food tolerance was assessed at every meal and SIRS every 12 hours.

Results

The number of patients experiencing serious adverse events was not increased with Auxora versus SOC alone. Three (36.5%) patients with moderate AP receiving low-dose Auxora improved to mild AP; no computed tomography severity index improvements were observed with SOC. By study end, patients receiving Auxora better tolerated solid foods, had less persistent SIRS, and had reduced hospitalization versus SOC.

Conclusions

The favorable safety profile and patient outcomes suggest Auxora may be an appropriate early treatment for patients with AP and SIRS. Clinical development will continue in a randomized, controlled, blinded, dose-ranging study.
Lack of Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity After Pancreas Transplantation in Recipients With a High Level of Calcineurin Inhibitors
Authors: Ko Youngmin , Shin Sung , Mun Seonghwan , Kim Dong Hyun , Lim Seong Jun , Jung Chang Hee , Kwon Hyunwook , Jung Joo Hee , Kim Young Hoon , Han Duck Jong
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to assess posttransplant changes in insulin sensitivity and β-cell function of pancreas transplant recipients according to the type of diabetes mellitus (DM) and the pretransplant insulin sensitivity measured by the Matsuda Index (MI).

Methods

We analyzed 60 patients who underwent pancreas transplantation and oral glucose tolerance test pretransplant and at 1 month posttransplant.

Results

At 1 month posttransplant, insulin sensitivity did not show significant improvement; particularly, the MI was significantly lower after transplant in recipients with type 1 DM (T1DM) and those with pretransplant MI of 5 or greater. β-cell function was significantly improved after transplant in all recipients regardless of the type of DM and pretransplant MI values. Glucose control was significantly improved in recipients with T1DM and in all recipients regardless of the pretransplant MI values. Additional oral glucose tolerance test at 1 year posttransplant revealed that insulin sensitivity remained unimproved and β-cell function was higher compared with pretransplant. Glucose control had partially reverted to pretransplant levels in recipients with T1DM and those with pretransplant MI of 5 or greater.

Conclusions

Unlike β-cell function and glucose control, insulin sensitivity did not significantly improve until posttransplant 1 year after pancreas transplantation regardless of the type of DM or the degree of pretransplant insulin sensitivity.
Impact of Infant Milk-Type and Childhood Eating Behaviors on Functional Constipation in Preschool Children
Authors: de Oliveira Marcela Barros Barbosa , Jardim-Botelho Anne , de Morais Mauro Batista , da Cruz Melo Ingrid Ribeiro , Maciel Júlia Franco , Gurgel Ricardo Queiroz
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To investigate the association between functional constipation, infant feeding in early infancy and eating behavior in preschool children.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was undertaken in public and private schools in the state of Sergipe (Northeast of Brazil). The sample calculation was based on a 25% estimate of constipation prevalence in Brazilian children, resulting in a sample size of 1051 children. Functional constipation was assessed using Rome IV criteria. Eating behavior was assessed using the Children's Eating Behavior Questionnaire. Adjusted odds ratios were estimated using a multivariate model.

Results:

The prevalence of functional constipation was 23%. After adjusting for water intake, children with food fussiness were >6 times likely to have constipation (odds ratio [OR] = 6.65; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.19–8.52). Children who were fed with cow's milk in the first 6 months of age were up to 15.2 times more likely to have functional constipation. Bottle feeding at 0–6 months of age increased the risk of functional constipation at preschool age (whole cow's milk: OR = 17.02; 95% CI 7.33–39.51, infant formula: OR = 6.35; 95% CI 3.42–11.79, mixed breastfeeding: OR = 10.83; 95% CI 4.57–25.69).

Conclusion:

Food fussiness and the use of cow's milk-based feeding bottles at 0–6 months of age were associated with functional constipation in preschool children.
Diagnosing Coeliac Disease During Mass-Screening of General Paediatric Population: Is Biopsy Avoidable?
Authors: Al-Hussaini Abdulrahman , Al-Jurayyan Abdullah , Alharbi Sahar , Bashir Muhammed Salman , Troncone Riccardo
Published: May 2021

Objectives:

Studies evaluating the correlation between tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin antibody (TGA-IgA) levels and the degree of enteropathy in screening-detected coeliac disease (CD) patients from the general childhood population are scarce. The objectives of our study were to evaluate the correlation between the TGA-IgA titre and the degree of enteropathy and to evaluate whether the no-biopsy approach to diagnose CD in symptomatic patients proposed by the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition could be extended to asymptomatic CD patients diagnosed during mass screening studies.

Methods:

The present study is a sub-study of a cross-sectional mass screening study, “Exploring the Iceberg of Coeliacs in Saudi Arabia”, conducted among school-aged children (6–15 years) in 2014–2015. The 93 biopsy-confirmed CD patients constituted the study cohort of the present study (mean age 11.4 ± 2.6 years; 24 males). TGA-IgA titres and endomysial antibodies (EMA) at the time of biopsy and grade of enteropathy were assessed, and human leukocyte antigen DQ 2.2/2.5/8 genotyping was performed.

Results:

Thirty-four patients had TGA-IgA titres >10× upper limit of normal (ULN; 36%); all had villous atrophy with positive EMA and DQ 2.2/2.5/8. The sensitivity and specificity of a TGA-IgA titre >10× ULN in correctly diagnosing CD was 100%. There was a significant positive correlation between the anti-TGA-IgA titre and the severity of enteropathy (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference in the TGA-IgA titre between the asymptomatic and symptomatic CD patients.

Conclusions:

Our results provide evidence that a TGA-IgA titre >10× ULN correlates with villous atrophy in CD patients detected by mass screening.
Using Electronic Data and a Mixed-Methods Approach to Evaluate Short Peripheral Catheter Outcomes in Acute Care
Authors: Woda Aimee , Ford Cailin , Meise Kelsey , Singh Maharaj , Hook Mary
Published: May 2021

Short peripheral catheters (SPCs) are commonly used in hospitals, guided by evidence-based standards to optimize dwell time and limit adverse outcomes. Although SPC insertions are common, real-world evaluation is rare. A theory-based framework and mixed-methods design were used to analyze findings from a unit-level survey and electronic data to evaluate SPC care delivered on units at a large quaternary medical center over a 6-month period (quarters 1 and 2, 2017). Dissemination without adoption and maintenance may limit effectiveness. The convergent results confirmed the feasibility of extracting electronic data to be used by leaders to clinically evaluate staff knowledge and use behaviors to take action to improve outcomes.
The Relationship Between Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections and Extended Intravenous Solution Hang Times
Authors: Mianecki Therese B. , Peterson Edward L.
Published: May 2021

Central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) can result in increased morbidity and mortality and billions of dollars of costs per year to institutions and patients. Fluctuating availability of manufacturers' supplies of intravenous (IV) solutions have created issues for health systems in which policy and procedures have been examined regarding extended hang time for IV solutions. This article examined the relationship between extended hang times of nonadditive IV solutions and incidence of CLABSIs in intensive and general practice inpatient units in a quaternary care setting. The incidence of CLABSIs with extended hang times of up to 96 hours, of nonadditive IV solutions, has demonstrated that significant changes in CLABSIs were not evident.
Optimizing the Effectiveness of Short Peripheral Catheters
Authors: Kollar Carrie
Published: May 2021

Hospitalized adult patients often require more than 1 short peripheral catheter (SPC) to complete the prescribed intravenous (IV) therapy attributed to catheter failure and the practice of routinely replacing SPCs. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to increase the number of SPCs that dwell for the complete duration of the IV therapy in hospitalized adult patients using a bundled approach. Implementation of an engineered securement device (ESD), education pertaining to modifiable risk factors, and changing the practice to removal on clinical indication were methods used to reduce the number of SPC insertions and catheter failures. This study was conducted at a rural Midwestern hospital using a convenience sample (N = 405) and an observational, descriptive cohort design in 6 phases between September 2019 and March 2020. After the practice changes, there was a reduction of SPC replacement (24%), catheter failures (24% to 13%), SPCs per patient (M = 2.9–2.2; P = .045), SPC insertions (4000 per year), and catheter-related bloodstream infections (0.26 per 1000 catheter days to 0.0), as well as a significant increase of SPCs remaining in situ (M = 2.6–3.8 days; P < .001), resulting in an estimated cost savings of at least $285,000. The results demonstrated that the risk of failure significantly increased when SPCs were inserted in the wrist (P = .007) and upper arm (P = .026) and significantly reduced when inserted in the forearm (P = .39). Study findings suggest that using an ESD, promoting SPC insertion in the forearm, avoiding the wrist and upper arm, and changing practice to removal when clinically indicated reduced the number of SPC insertions and rate of catheter failures.
The Value of Recognition
Authors: Sweeney Cynthia D.
Published: May 2021

With increasing demands and diminishing nurse resources in the health care landscape today, it is even more important for health care leaders to understand the value that meaningful recognition brings to their organizations. Meaningful recognition is an integral component of a healthy work environment, supporting nurse satisfaction and the patient experience. The DAISY Award as a form of meaningful recognition for the past 21 years is an evidence-based practice used in more than 4600 health care organizations worldwide. This article discusses the evidence and provides a case study for the application of The DAISY Award as a value-added strategic tool for health care leaders and their organizations.
Virtual Focus Groups as an Answer to Research During a Pandemic
Authors: Smith Theresa A. , Perez Jacqueline K. , Friesen Mary Ann
Published: May 2021

Focus groups are a standard method of qualitative data collection and an excellent method for data collection in nursing professional development. Advances in technology, virtual health care, and the COVID-19 pandemic increase the opportunities to use virtual focus groups for rich data collection. In this perspective article, the authors promote virtual focus groups as an answer to challenging data collection, while exploring ways that privacy and confidentiality can be maintained in an online environment.
Health Literacy Among Adults With Multiple Chronic Health Conditions
Authors: Rafferty Ann P. , Luo Huabin , Winterbauer Nancy L. , Bell Ronny A. , Little N. Ruth Gaskins , Imai Satomi
Published: May 2021

Low health literacy (HL) is associated with poorer health outcomes. We examined HL among adults with multiple chronic conditions (CCs), using 2016 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data. Health literacy was measured by 3 subjective questions about difficulty with the following tasks: (1) obtaining health information or advice; (2) understanding spoken health information; and (3) understanding written health information. We estimated the prevalence of low HL (difficulty with ≥1 HL tasks) and used multiple logistic regression analysis to examine associations between HL and number of CCs. The prevalence of low HL was 13.8% overall and increased with the number of CCs from 10.6% among those with no CC to 24.7% among those with 3 or more CCs, with the latter having more than twice the adjusted odds of low HL compared with the former (adjusted odds ratio = 2.65; 95% confidence interval, 2.36-2.97). Efforts to improve HL in this population are needed.
Public Health Expenditures and Clinical and Social Complexity of Tuberculosis Cases–Alameda County, California, July-December 2017
Authors: Shiau Rita , Holmen Jenna , Chitnis Amit S.
Published: May 2021

Context:

Alameda County, California, is a high tuberculosis (TB) burden county that reported a TB incidence rate of 8.1 per 100 000 during 2017. It is the only high TB burden California county that does not have a public health–funded TB clinic.

Objective:

To describe TB public health expenditures and clinical and social complexities of TB case-patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants:

Public health surveillance of confirmed and possible TB case-patients reported to Alameda County Public Health Department during July 1, 2017, to December 31, 2017. Social complexity status was categorized for all case-patients using surveillance data; clinical complexity status, either by surveillance definition or by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), was categorized only for confirmed TB case-patients.

Main Outcome Measures:

Total public health and per patient expenditures were stratified by insurance status. Cohen's kappa assessed concordance between clinical complexity definitions. All comparisons were conducted using Fisher's exact or Kruskal-Wallis tests.

Results:

Of 81 case-patients reported, 68 (84%) had confirmed TB, 29 (36%) were socially complex, and 15 (19%) were uninsured. Total public health expenditures were $487 194, and 18% of expenditures were in nonlabor domains, 57% of which were for TB treatment, diagnostics, and insurance, with insured patients also incurring such expenditures. Median per patient expenditures were significantly higher for uninsured and government-insured patients than for privately insured patients ($7007 and $5045 vs $3704; P = .03). Among confirmed TB case-patients, 72% were clinically complex by surveillance definition and 53% by the CCI; concordance between definitions was poor (κ = 0.25; 95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.46).

Conclusions:

Total public health expenditures approached $500 000. Most case-patients were clinically complex, and about 20% were uninsured. While expenditures were higher for uninsured case-patients, insured case-patients still incurred TB treatment, diagnostic, and insurance-related expenditures. State and local health departments may be able to use our expenditure estimates by insurance status and description of clinically complex TB case-patients to inform efforts to allocate and secure adequate funding.
Assessing Concordance Across Nonprofit Hospitals' Public Reporting on Housing as a Community Health Need in the Era of the Affordable Care Act
Authors: Chen Katherine L. , Chen Kevin , Holaday Louisa W. , Lopez Leo
Published: May 2021

Although the Affordable Care Act requires nonprofit hospital organizations to report how they identify and invest in community health needs, the utility of mandated reporting documents for tracking investments in the social determinants of health has been questioned. Using public reporting documents and focusing on housing as a social determinant of health, we describe how nonprofit hospital organizations in 5 communities with the highest rates of homelessness document needs and investments related to housing on their Community Health Needs Assessments, Implementation Strategies, and Schedule H (990H) tax forms. Of 47 organizations, 55% identified housing as a health need, 36% described housing-related implementation strategies, and 26% reported relevant 990H spending. Overall concordance among identified needs, strategies, and spending was low, with only 15% of organizations addressing housing across all 3 documents. Regulatory reform could help promote accountability and transparency in organizations' efforts to address housing and other health-related social needs.
Modeling the Transmission of COVID-19: Impact of Mitigation Strategies in Prekindergarten-Grade 12 Public Schools, United States, 2021
Authors: Miller Gabrielle F. , Greening Bradford , Rice Ketra L. , Arifkhanova Aziza , Meltzer Martin I. , Coronado Fátima
Published: May 2021

Background:

Schools are an integral part of the community; however, congregate settings facilitate transmission of SARS-CoV-2, presenting a challenge to school administrators to provide a safe, in-school environment for students and staff.

Methods:

We adapted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's COVIDTracer Advanced tool to model the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in a school of 596 individuals. We estimate possible reductions in cases and hospitalizations among this population using a scenario-based analysis that accounts for (a) the risk of importation of infection from the community; (b) adherence to key Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–recommended mitigation strategies: mask wearing, cleaning and disinfection, hand hygiene, and social distancing; and (c) the effectiveness of contact tracing interventions at limiting onward transmission.

Results:

Low impact and effectiveness of mitigation strategies (net effectiveness: 27%) result in approximately 40% of exposed staff and students becoming COVID-19 cases. When the net effectiveness of mitigation strategies was 69% or greater, in-school transmission was mostly prevented, yet importation of cases from the surrounding community could result in nearly 20% of the school's population becoming infected within 180 days. The combined effects of mitigation strategies and contact tracing were able to prevent most onward transmission. Hospitalizations were low among children and adults (<0.5% of the school population) across all scenarios examined.

Conclusions:

Based on our model, layering mitigation strategies and contact tracing can limit the number of cases that may occur from transmission in schools. Schools in communities with substantial levels of community spread will need to be more vigilant to ensure adherence of mitigation strategies to minimize transmission. Our results show that for school administrators, teachers, and parents to provide the safest environment, it is important to utilize multiple mitigation strategies and contract tracing that reduce SARS CoV-2 transmission by at least 69%. This will require training, reinforcement, and vigilance to ensure that the highest level of adherence is maintained over the entire school term.
The Impacts of Disclosure and a Proactive Compensation Offer on Chinese Patients’ Actions After Medical Errors
Authors: Gu Xiuzhu , Deng Mingming
Published: May 2021

Objectives

This study aims to obtain evidence of the impacts of error disclosure and the impacts of a proactive compensation offer on Chinese patients’ actions after medical errors.

Methods

A total of 915 responses were collected from a questionnaire survey. Two fictitious cases (entailed moderate and severe harm) that involved error disclosure were described. One of 5 disclosure and compensation types was randomly provided to each participant. The 5 types were combinations of 3 disclosure types (no disclosure, partial disclosure, and full disclosure) and 2 proactive compensation offer categories (no offer and an offer), with the exception of no disclosure but a proactive compensation offer. The respondents were asked about their willingness to take actions if they were the affected patient.

Results

The generalized ordinal logit regression model showed that error disclosure did not increase the likelihood of the patients taking action, such as changing physicians, complaining, or filing lawsuits. A proactive compensation offer decreased the patients’ willingness to file lawsuits but had no significant influence on the other action choices. In addition, the patients’ actions were affected by other factors, such as the severity of the error, age, sex, education level, being religious, prior error experience, and health insurance.

Conclusions

We suggest that “disclosure and compensation” programs are developed in China. To ensure their implementation, it is recommended that appropriate training is provided and that the disclosure culture in health care organizations is improved. Furthermore, laws or regulations are required that govern error disclosure and provide support for health care professionals and organizations.
An Initiative to Improve Timely Glucocorticoid Tapering in Vasculitis
Authors: Mendel Arielle , Ennis Daniel , Lake Shirley , Carette Simon , Pagnoux Christian
Published: May 2021

Background/Objective

High-dose glucocorticoids (GCs) are required in the initial treatment of systemic vasculitis. However, slow or delayed tapering can lead to unnecessary GC exposure and toxicity. In this quality improvement initiative, we aimed to increase appropriate GC tapering among newly referred patients awaiting specialty consultation at a tertiary vasculitis clinic.

Methods

For each patient referred for anti–neutrophil cytoplasm antibody–associated vasculitis (AAV) or large vessel vasculitis (LVV), recommendation-based GC tapering suggestions were faxed to referring physicians. To maximize uptake, the intervention format was modified according to feedback from referring physicians' offices. The proportion of new patients presenting to their first appointment who (1) had started to taper GCs, (2) were taking their target GC dose according to recommendations, (3) experienced a vasculitis flare during tapering were compared before (July 2017–January 2019) and after (February–October 2019) the intervention.

Results

Among 169 consecutive patients referred for AAV or LVV, the proportion who had started to taper GCs by their first visit increased from 84 of 117 (72%) preintervention to 49 of 52 (94%) postintervention (p < 0.01). Mean daily prednisone dose at first visit decreased from 29.9 (SD, 18) mg to 21.7 (SD, 14) mg (p < 0.01). However, the proportion who were ultimately taking “target” GC doses at their first visit did not significantly increase (72% vs. 77%). Disease flares during tapering were similar before and after the intervention (9% vs. 12%).

Conclusions

Patients with AAV and LVV had increased GC tapering and lower GC doses at first visit following a preappointment intervention. Further strategies are needed to improve timely GC tapering in vasculitis.
Fully Integrated Quantitative Multiparametric Analysis of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer at 3-T PET/MRI
Authors: Besson Florent L. , Fernandez Brice , Faure Sylvain , Mercier Olaf , Seferian Andrei , Mussot Sacha , Levy Antonin , Parent Florence , Bulifon Sophie , Jais Xavier , Montani David , Mitilian Delphine , Fadel Elie , Planchard David , Ghigna-Bellinzoni Maria-Rosa , Comtat Claude , Lebon Vincent , Durand Emmanuel
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The aim of this study was to study the feasibility of a fully integrated multiparametric imaging framework to characterize non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at 3-T PET/MRI.

Patients and Methods

An 18F-FDG PET/MRI multiparametric imaging framework was developed and prospectively applied to 11 biopsy-proven NSCLC patients. For each tumor, 12 parametric maps were generated, including PET full kinetic modeling, apparent diffusion coefficient, T1/T2 relaxation times, and DCE full kinetic modeling. Gaussian mixture model-based clustering was applied at the whole data set level to define supervoxels of similar multidimensional PET/MRI behaviors. Taking the multidimensional voxel behaviors as input and the supervoxel class as output, machine learning procedure was finally trained and validated voxelwise to reveal the dominant PET/MRI characteristics of these supervoxels at the whole data set and individual tumor levels.

Results

The Gaussian mixture model-based clustering clustering applied at the whole data set level (17,316 voxels) found 3 main multidimensional behaviors underpinned by the 12 PET/MRI quantitative parameters. Four dominant PET/MRI parameters of clinical relevance (PET: k2, k3 and DCE: ve, vp) predicted the overall supervoxel behavior with 97% of accuracy (SD, 0.7; 10-fold cross-validation). At the individual tumor level, these dimensionality-reduced supervoxel maps showed mean discrepancy of 16.7% compared with the original ones.

Conclusions

One-stop-shop PET/MRI multiparametric quantitative analysis of NSCLC is clinically feasible. Both PET and MRI parameters are useful to characterize the behavior of tumors at the supervoxel level. In the era of precision medicine, the full capabilities of PET/MRI would give further insight of the characterization of NSCLC behavior, opening new avenues toward image-based personalized medicine in this field.
A 19-Year Experience With Clavicular Defects
Authors: Lim Kaitlin Ann , Lin Cheng-Hung , Lin Chih-Hung
Published: May 2021

Background

The clavicle contributes to the stability and functional integrity of the shoulder. Clavicle bone defects are uncommon, and the strategy for their management is variable.

Method

Six patients presented with clavicle bone defects. The causes were as follows: traumatic defects (2 patients), electric injury (1 patient), osteoradionecrosis (2 patients), and nonunion (1 patient). One patient had upper limb palsy for 40 years, and another had posttraumatic shoulder function impairment. A pedicled pectoralis major myocutaneous flap was used for the patient with a dysfunctional limb, and 5 bone flaps (3 free fibular flaps, 1 free iliac flap, and 1 pedicled rib flap) were used for reconstruction in the other patients.

Result

All flaps (2 pedicled flaps and 4 free flaps) were successfully used for wound repair; the pedicled rib flap demonstrated partial marginal necrosis, and the free fibular flap required reexploration for venous kinking. Five functionally impaired upper limbs showed functional improvements postoperatively.

Conclusion

For functionless composite clavicles and soft tissue defects, a soft tissue flap will be required for wound repair. A bone flap, especially a fibular flap, is required for the upper limb to show functional recovery. The variety of flaps will be planned according to the defect size comparison between the bone and soft tissue, and ipsilateral upper limb function, and a proposed algorithm will be discussed.
Jaffe Lichtenstein Type of Polyostotic Skeletal Fibrous Dysplasia With the Involvement of Cranial Bones
Authors: Akkemik Ozlem , Erkus Serkan , Kalenderer Onder , Dündar Nesrin
Published: May 2021

Fibrous dysplasia (FD), a benign fibro-osseous bone tumor commonly involving the craniofacial region, presents a wide spectrum of radiographic patterns. When FD lesions are suspected, various imaging modalities and histopathologic analyses may be required to reach a firm diagnosis. Here, the authors report the case of a 10-year-old male patient presenting with polyostotic type of FD with follow-up data for the next 9 years. The patient showed involvement of cranial bones and bilateral femurs, with skin pigmentation and no endocrine disease, consistent with the diagnosis of Jaffe Lichtenstein disease. The craniofacial radiographic features obtained with computed tomography and cone-beam computerized tomography are documented in this article.
One-step Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangioscopy Combined With High-frequency Needle-knife Electrotomy in Biliary Strictures After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Tao Haisu , Wang Ping , Sun Beiwang , Zhou Xinghua , Xie Jiafen
Published: May 2021

Background:

Endoscopic management is the mainstay for biliary strictures after liver transplantation. However, this method is often failed in cases associated with hepatolithiasis or refractory strictures. The aim of this study is to investigate whether 1-step percutaneous transhepatic biliary cholangiography (PTC) combined with high-frequency needle-knife electrotomy can be an alternative method in biliary strictures after liver transplantation that could not be treated by endoscopic management.

Methods:

Clinical data of 14 patients suffering from biliary strictures after liver transplantation from June 2014 to January 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. One-step PTC combined with high-frequency needle-knife electrotomy was used to resolve the strictures.

Results:

One-step PTC was successfully performed in all 14 patients. In 10 of 12 (83.3%) patients with hepatolithiasis, the stones were removed completely. Stricture resolution was detected in 13 of 14 (92.9%) patients at first postoperative choledochoscopy. Three mild adverse events occurred (cholangitis, 2 patients; delayed hemobilia, 1 patient), but were resolved with conservative treatment. The follow-up after supporting catheter removal was 15.7±4.5 months. Only 1 patient (8.3%) had stone recurrence and no stenosis occurred during supporting-catheter-free follow-up.

Conclusions:

One-step PTC combined with high-frequency needle-knife electrotomy seems to be a useful for treating biliary strictures after liver transplantation.
Case-control analysis of prehospital death and prolonged field care survival during recent US military combat operations
Authors: Shackelford Stacy A. , del Junco Deborah J. , Riesberg Jamie C. , Powell Douglas , Mazuchowski Edward L. , Kotwal Russ S. , Loos Paul E. , Montgomery Harold R. , Remley Michael A. , Gurney Jennifer M. , Keenan Sean
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Quantification of medical interventions administered during prolonged field care (PFC) is necessary to inform training and planning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of Department of Defense Trauma Registry casualties with maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale (MAIS) score of 2 or greater and prehospital records during combat operations 2007 to 2015; US military nonsurvivors were linked to Armed Forces Medical Examiner System data. Medical interventions administered to survivors of 4 hours to 72 hours of PFC and nonsurvivors who died prehospital were compared by frequency-matching on mechanism (explosive, firearm, other), injury type (penetrating, blunt) and injured body regions with MAIS score of 3 or greater. Covariates for adjustment included age, sex, military Service, shock, Glasgow Coma Scale, transport team, MAIS and Injury Severity Score (ISS). Sensitivity analysis focused on US military subgroup with AIS/ISS assigned to nonsurvivors after autopsy.

RESULTS

The total inception cohort included 16,202 casualties (5,269 US military, 10,809 non-US military), 64% Afghanistan, 36% Iraq. Of US military, 734 deaths occurred within 30 days, nearly 90% occurred within 4 hours of injury. There were 3,222 casualties (1,111 US military, 2,111 non-US military) documented for prehospital care and died prehospital (691) or survived 4 hours to 72 hours of PFC (2,531). Twenty-five percent (815/3,222) received advanced airway, 18% (583) ventilatory support, 9% (281) tourniquet. Twenty-three percent (725) received blood transfusions within 24 hours. Of the matched cohort (1,233 survivors, 490 nonsurvivors), differences were observed in care (survivors received more warming, intravenous fluids, sedation, mechanical ventilation, narcotics, antibiotics; nonsurvivors received more intubations, tourniquets, intraosseous fluids, cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Sensitivity analysis focused on US military (732 survivors, 379 nonsurvivors) showed no significant differences in prehospital interventions. Without autopsy information, the ISS of nonsurvivors significantly underestimated injury severity.

CONCLUSION

Tourniquets, blood transfusion, airway, and ventilatory support are frequently required interventions for the seriously injured. Prolonged field care should direct resources, technology, and training to field technology for sustained resuscitation, airway, and breathing support in the austere environment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic, Level III
Optimizing surgical stabilization of rib fractures using intraoperative ultrasound localization
Authors: Martin Thomas J. , Cao Jessica , Benoit Eric , Kheirbek Tareq
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND

Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) significantly improve the outcomes of patients with rib fractures. Ultrasound is a specific modality for localizing rib fractures. We hypothesized that use of perioperative ultrasound localization of fracture sites optimizes surgical approach and clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult patients undergoing SSRF and compared those with and without adjunctive perioperative ultrasound fracture localization. Our primary outcome was improved surgical efficiency as measured by incision length and total operative time. Secondary clinical outcomes included numeric pain score on follow-up visit and daily morphine milligram equivalent prescribed within 30 days from discharge.

RESULTS

We performed 49 surgical rib fixations between 2015 and 2020; of which, 13 (26.5%) additionally underwent ultrasound localization (26.5%). There were no significant differences between groups in age, sex, number of ribs repaired, or days till surgery. More patients in the ultrasound group had nonflail chest wall injury (76.9% vs. 27.8%, p = 0.003). Use of perioperative ultrasound was associated with shorter incision length (median, 9 vs. 15.5 cm; p = 0.0001), shorter operative time (median, 120 vs. 174 minutes; p = 0.003), less daily morphine milligram equivalent (25 vs. 68 mg, p = 0.009), and reduced numeric pain score on follow up (median, 4 vs. 7, p = 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Use of perioperative ultrasound localization of rib fractures to optimize surgical approach for SSRF was associated with reduced incision length, operative time, and opioid requirements on patient discharge. We recommend considering routine perioperative localization to improve surgical approach and efficiency during SSRF.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic, level IV.
Augmented reality visualization tool for the future of tactical combat casualty care
Authors: Leuze Christoph , Zoellner Andreas , Schmidt Alexander R. , Cushing Robin E. , Fischer Marc J. , Joltes Kristin , Zientara Gary P.
Published: May 2021

The objective of this project was to identify and develop software for an augmented reality application that runs on the US Army Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) to support a medical caregiver during tactical combat casualty care scenarios. In this augmented reality tactical combat casualty care application, human anatomy of individual soldiers obtained predeployment is superimposed on the view of an injured war fighter through the IVAS. This offers insight into the anatomy of the injured war fighter to advance treatment in austere environments.

In this article, we describe various software components required for an augmented reality tactical combat casualty care tool. These include a body pose tracking system to track the patient’s body pose, a virtual rendering of a human anatomy avatar, speech input to control the application and rendering techniques to visualize the virtual anatomy, and treatment information on the augmented reality display. We then implemented speech commands and visualization for four common medical scenarios including injury of a limb, a blast to the pelvis, cricothyrotomy, and a pneumothorax on the Microsoft HoloLens 1 (Microsoft, Redmond, WA).

The software is designed for a forward surgical care tool on the US Army IVAS, with the intention to provide the medical caregiver with a unique ability to quickly assess affected internal anatomy. The current software components still had some limitations with respect to speech recognition reliability during noise and body pose tracking. These will likely be improved with the improved hardware of the IVAS, which is based on a modified HoloLens 2.