bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thrombocytopenia Associated With Teicoplanin Use: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Elajez Reem , Abdallah Ibtihal , Bakdach Dana , Shaat Eman , Osman Enas , Baraka Mona , Gergess Rania , Abdalla Rehab , Al Hamoud Eman , Al Bakri Muna , Al Soub Hussam
Published: February 2022

Background:

Contradictory studies reporting vast heterogeneity in the teicoplanin-induced thrombocytopenia (TIT) incidence exist.

Objective:

To identify the incidence of TIT associated with teicoplanin dosing range (6–12 mg/kg/dose) and the risk factors of TIT.

Methods:

This retrospective observational study included adult patients who received teicoplanin for ≥3 consecutive days over a period of 3.5 years. Thrombocytopenia was defined as a platelet count of <100 × 103/µL coupled with at least a 25% drop from the baseline count. The TIT incidence was assessed using the adverse drug reaction probability scale (Naranjo scale).

Results:

Data from 482 patients who received teicoplanin and met the predefined inclusion criteria were included in the analyses. The cohort presented a mean age of 53.5 ± 19 years, where 72.4% were male, and 49.2% exhibited normal baseline renal function. Teicoplanin was most commonly used for bacteremia (n = 134), and the most common isolated pathogen being Staphylococcus aureus (n = 221). The TIT incidence was 4.6% (the possible and probable category using the Naranjo scale; 22/482). The median time to first platelet count dropped to <100 × 103/µL after teicoplanin initiation was 5 (interquartile range [IQR], 3-10) days and 8 (IQR, 5-14) days till the maximum platelet count dropped. None of the tested patient variables were found to be independently associated with an increased risk of thrombocytopenia.

Conclusion and Relevance:

The overall TIT incidence was low across our study cohort, including critically ill patients. Our study results may aid in the optimal monitoring of such serious teicoplanin-induced adverse effects.
Determination of Serum Prostate Specific Antigen Levels Amongst Apparently Healthy Nigerian Males in a University and University Hospital Community in the Federal Capital Territory
Authors: Aisuodionoe-Shadrach Oseremen I. , Eniola Sefiu B. , Nwegbu Maxwell M. , Kolade-Yunusa Hadijat O. , Okereke Oriaku O. , Yunusa Thairu
Published: February 2022

Background

Prostate cancer is the commonest cancer among men worldwide and serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) has remained the most commonly applied screening test for the disease till date. Current PSA test results guidelines in our population are informed by reference intervals derived from studies from Caucasians and other racial groups. With scanty data on PSA reference values from our local population, this study evaluated the serum PSA levels of apparently healthy Nigerian male subjects in whom prostate cancer and urinary tract infection have been excluded.

Method

This study had participants aged 40 to 70 years, with no lower urinary tract symptoms or other symptoms suggestive of prostate disease recruited from the male staff population of the University of Abuja and University of Abuja Teaching Hospital and the adjoining local community. They were physically examined, had prostate ultrasonography, urine analysis, and blood sample collected for PSA testing. Data collected was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24.

Result

Of a total of 210 men who participated in the study, 191 eventually met the inclusion criteria. The average age was 52.9 years, ninety seven percent of them had heard of prostate cancer before now. The mean total PSA was 1.46 ng/mL (SD +/−1.55), while the reference interval was .23–5.60 ng/mL. The average prostate size was 41.8 mL (SD+/-20.11), and there was a positive correlation between the PSA and the prostate size (.418) as well as the age of the subjects (.446). There was no significant difference in the mean PSA value for those with or without family history of prostate cancer ( P=.979).

Conclusion

The reference range of PSA in Nigeria is higher than in other races, hence utilizing a local value in decision making would help to reduce unnecessary invasive procedures.
Variant Rs556621 on Chromosome 6p21.1 and the Risk of Ischemic Stroke in Chinese Populations: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Langxin , Zhang Guiying , Li Qifu , Lin Rong
Published: February 2022

There are inconsistencies in the published findings on the association of variant rs556621 in an intergenic region on Chromosome 6p21.1 with the risk of developing ischemic stroke (IS) and a major IS subtype (large artery atherosclerosis, LAA) in Chinese populations. We conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the association of variant rs556621 with IS/LAA risk using ten studies involving 3644 IS cases and 3692 controls (including seven studies involving 2268 LAA cases and 2268 controls) from China. The AA genotype increased IS risk (AA versus CC: odds ratio [OR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.36, P = 0.015; AA versus CA + CC: OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09-1.39, P = 0.001). Subgroup analysis also suggested that rs556621 contributed to the risk of IS both in Chinese Han and the miscellaneous group. However, these results were stable in Chinese Han but not in the miscellaneous group. When restricting our analysis to the LAA subtype, similar results were obtained. This meta-analysis is the first meta-analysis on the correlation between rs556621 and the susceptibility of IS/LAA and demonstrates that rs556621 is associated with IS/LAA risk in Chinese populations. Further meta-analysis warrants larger well-designed investigations to assess these effects.
Hyperprogression and hypercalcemia after nivolumab treatment in three cases with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Caner Burcu , Ertas Hulya , Ocak Birol , Cubukcu Erdem
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Hyperprogression is a specific type of response seen with immunotherapy that is observed in all malignancies with a frequency of 9% - 29%, characterized by a rapid increase in tumor burden. Many possible related factors and possible markers have been evaluated but a clinical or laboratory parameter associated with hyperprogression has not yet been established. For renal cell carcinoma, hypercalcemia is known to be a poor prognostic factor but it has not been linked to hyperprogression.

Case report

We retrospectively evaluated 52 patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma who had nivolumab treatment in any line. 3 of 9 patients who had hyperprogression were noticed to have hypercalcemia preceding hyperprogression. Here we present those 3 cases who developed hypercalcemia after nivolumab and had hyperprogression at follow-up.

Management and outcome

All cases had less than 4 courses of nivolumab and showed hyperprogression in assessment. Nivolumab was discontinued. However, patients’ survival was extremely poor, as expected.

Discussion

The development of hypercalcemia may help predict hyperprogression in patients with renal cell carcinoma who receive immunotherapy. In such cases, early evaluation of progression and cessation of nivolumab may be considered.
Phononic metamaterial for efficient sound attenuation applications
Authors: Aravantinos-Zafiris Nikos , Sigalas Mihail M , Katerelos Dionysios TG
Published: February 2022

In this work, a phononic metamaterial suitable for several sound attenuation applications is numerically and experimentally examined. The proposed structure consists of a combination of spheres in a face-centered cubic arrangement with rods that form the Yablonovite Structure. The Sound Transmission Loss of the structure is experimentally examined. In addition, numerical calculations of the Sound Transmission Loss were performed by using the Finite Element Method. The research includes experimental and numerical validation of different geometric parameters of the structure. The Sound Transmission Loss of the proposed structure found to have wide values over a wide frequency range of the audio spectrum. The findings of this research strongly indicate that the proposed metamaterial is a powerful candidate for efficient sound attenuation applications.
Understanding rural-living young adult cancer survivors’ motivation during a telehealth behavior change intervention within a single-arm feasibility trial
Authors: Price Jenson , Brunet Jennifer
Published: February 2022

A single-arm feasibility trial was conducted to explore rural-living young adult cancer survivors’ physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption, and motivational processes underlying any behavior changes during a telehealth behavior change intervention grounded in self-determination theory. Participants ( n = 7; 85.7% female; Mage = 33.9, range = 28–37) met with a health coach once a week for 60 min for 12 weeks. Participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys that assessed their behaviors, basic psychological needs satisfaction, and behavioral regulations. Participants also completed a semi-structured interview post-intervention. Quantitative results indicate behavioral outcomes, basic psychological needs satisfaction, and behavioral regulations increased from pre- to post-intervention. Five themes provide context for the observed increases. Results provide preliminary evidence that motivation for physical activity and fruit and vegetable consumption may be facilitated by a one-on-one telehealth intervention among rural-living young adult cancer survivors. Large scale studies are needed to determine effectiveness of the intervention and identify mechanisms underpinning behavioral outcomes.
Facebook Live is not “liked”: Construction of liveness and the reception of video livestreaming
Authors: Zelenkauskaite Asta , Loring-Albright Greg
Published: February 2022

Not all information communication technologies are liked equally by their intended users. Situated within media richness and media ritual theories, this study conceptualizes the notion of liveness for live video streaming and its implementation for Facebook Live. A longitudinal analysis of 21 top hit radio stations in the United States in the years 2016 and 2018 found that, overall, Facebook Live did not garner audience approval. A closer examination of the Facebook Live content showed that while in-studio content featuring radio announcers in their traditional setup did not solicit followers’ likes, Facebook Live posts that featured out-of-studio locations gained more approval in 2018. These findings show how technological-algorithmic platforms are leveraged by radio stations, even if they are not endorsed by social media users. The implication of these findings is that the meaningful integration of video live streaming is still negotiated on social media platforms.
Explaining the nonalignment of ecosystem partners: A structuralist approach
Authors: Malherbe Magali , Tellier Albéric
Published: February 2022

Developing a new value proposition requires that a set of partners align their interests. The challenge is to define an ecosystem strategy and agree on its constitutive features. Drawing on a “structuralist approach,” we provide insights into the conditions that constrain the alignment of partners. We conducted a longitudinal process study of the ecosystem of mobile contactless services in France that failed to reach alignment among partners. A comprehensive 12-year picture of the ecosystem is created using a double-analytical design that reinforces the accuracy of the analysis. Our results highlight the factors that hinder the alignment of partners and lead to the development of an ecosystem based on a very different blueprint at the expense of its initial contributors. We reveal three sources of nonalignment: an overly ambitious and loosely defined value proposition, a value distribution risk, and inconsistencies in the multiscale institutional context.
Nonverbal Behavior in Face-to-face Survey Interviews: An Analysis of Interviewer Behavior and Adequate Responding
Authors: Foucault Welles Brooke , Sun Hanyu , Miller Peter V.
Published: February 2022

We examine relationships between interviewers’ nonverbal behaviors and adequate responding in face-to-face survey interviews. We videotaped professional interviewers administering face-to-face survey interviews and coded them for three interviewer nonverbal behaviors: smiling, nodding, and direct gaze. These nonverbal interviewer behaviors were associated with significant increases in the frequency of respondents’ adequate responses. Moreover, the nonverbal behaviors were equally likely to present in standardized and unstandardized utterances. These results suggest that interviewers’ nonverbal behaviors positively correlate with adequate responding without deviating from standardized interview protocols. We discuss implications for survey theory and interviewer training.
Percutaneous Drainage for Aortic Graft Infection Post-aneurysm Repair: A Viable Option?
Authors: Kennedy Sean A. , Kennedy M. Katharine , Lindsay Thomas F. , Byrne John , Jaberi Arash , Gold Wayne L. , Tan KongTeng , Mafeld Sebastian
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Non-operative management of aortic graft infection is usually only considered in a palliative context. We describe the safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes of percutaneous drainage of aortic graft infections (AGI) following either open or endovascular repair of aneurysmal disease.

Methods

Twelve consecutive patients (11 males, 1 female, mean age 72.7 ± 10.3 years, age range 52-88 years) between January 2010-July 2020 who underwent percutaneous drain insertion in either an infected aortic sac or periaortic abscess cavity following endovascular or open surgical graft repair were identified. Patient and procedural characteristics as well as clinical outcomes were determined.

Results

Of the 12 patients who underwent percutaneous drain insertion, five (41.7%) had undergone open abdominal aneurysm repair, one (8.3%) open thoracoabdominal aneurysmal repair, and six (50%) endovascular abdominal aneurysm repairs. Drain size ranged from 10-20 French. All were inserted under ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT), and/or fluoroscopic guidance. Median duration of drain placement was 55.2 days (range 3-174). Five patients (41.7%) had the drain in place as a stabilizing bridge until or after definitive surgical explantation and aortic reconstruction. Seven patients (58.3%) were managed with drain placement and antibiotic therapy without surgical intervention. Six (50%) were alive at the most recent time of follow-up (median, 732 days, range 166-1650 days). Three patients (25%) died during follow-up with causes including erosion of aortic reconstruction into sigmoid colon, unrelated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation, and severe clostridium difficile colitis and pseudomonal pneumonia (median 1244 days, range 992-1597 days). Three (25%) patients were lost to follow-up. No drain-related complications were noted.

Conclusion

Percutaneous drainage of AGI following endovascular or open aneurysm repair is a safe and viable management option either as a temporizing measure as a bridge to surgical graft explantation or as a non-surgical therapy for long term management.
COVID-19 and Male Reproduction: A Thorny Problem
Authors: Li Xiaoping , Chen Zhiqiang , Geng Jinke , Mei Qian , Li Hong , Mao Caiping , Han Mutian
Published: February 2022

With the global epidemic of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the increasing number of infections, little is known about how SARS-CoV-2 affects the male reproductive system during infection or after recovery. Based on the existing research data, we reviewed the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system and discussed its possible mechanism of action. SARS-CoV-2 enters host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)/transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) pathway, and males are more susceptible than females. After infection, immunopathological damage is noticed in the testicles, and the semen index is significantly reduced. Second, abnormalities of serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone (T) levels were also observed, suggesting that there may be dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Even after recovery, the effect of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system can last for at least a period. There are still many unresolved questions about the effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male reproductive tract. Other receptors involved during the invasion of human cells by SARS-CoV-2 remain to be identified. Will the mutation of SARS-CoV-2 increase the diversity of receptors? How does SARS-CoV-2 affect the HPG axis? The long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system remain to be evaluated. SARS-CoV-2 infection can affect male reproductive function. Standard treatment strategies should be developed in time to protect the fertility of infected patients. For recovered patients with fertility requirements, fertility assessments should be performed and professional fertility guidance should be provided at the same time.
Older Patients Demonstrate PROMIS Outcomes Comparable to Younger Cohorts After Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: Englert Calvin H. , Hammert Warren C.
Published: February 2022

Background:

The utility of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) in monitoring clinical progress after carpal tunnel release (CTR) in patients of different ages remains unknown. We sought to evaluate early PROMIS scores in elderly patients (ie, those aged ≥65 years) after CTR and compare those with all younger patients after CTR.

Methods:

Patients presenting to a single academic medical center for CTR between September 2018 and January 2020 completed PROMIS physical function (PF), pain interference (PI), and upper extremity (UE) computer adaptive tests and answered a single 5-point Likert-scale question evaluating subjective changes in their condition following CTR. Patients were divided into 3 age groups, and preoperative and postoperative PROMIS scores were compared.

Results:

In all, 214 patients fit inclusion criteria: 86 aged 18-54 years, 71 aged 55-64 years, and 57 aged ≥65 years. Subjective improvement was reported in 70.9% (n = 61), 84.5% (n = 60), and 71.9% (n = 41) of patients aged ≤54, 55-64, and ≥65 years, respectively. Patients aged ≤54 years showed significantly worse UE scores ( P = .02), whereas those aged 55-64 years demonstrated significant worsening in all 3 PROMIS domains ( P < .01). Patients aged ≥65 years who reported subjective improvement after CTR demonstrated significant improvement in PI scores ( P = .03), whereas significant worsening of all PROMIS scores was observed in the subset of patients aged 55-64 years who reported subjective improvement ( P < .01, .04, and .04 for PF, PI, and UE, respectively).

Conclusions:

Younger patients showed worsening in PROMIS scores after CTR, whereas elderly patients did not show similar magnitude reductions in PROMIS scores. Moreover, the subset of elderly patients endorsing subjective improvement after CTR had reduced PI scores, consistent with less postoperative pain limitations.
Open versus Single- or Dual-Portal Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Koong Denis P. , An Vincent V. G. , Nandapalan Haren , Lawson Richard D. , Graham David J. , Sivakumar Brahman S.
Published: February 2022

Background:

Compared to the traditional open carpal tunnel release (OCTR), the additional safety and efficacy benefits of endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) remains unclear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of ECTR versus conventional OCTR as well as determine if a difference exists between the 2 most common endoscopic techniques: the single-portal and the dual-portal endoscopic technique.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic literature search of Medline, Embase, PubMed, and the CENTRAL. Additional articles were identified by handsearching reference lists. We included all randomized controlled trials that compared outcomes of ECTR with OCTR technique. Outcomes assessed included length of surgery, patient reported symptom and functional measures, time to return to work, and complications. A sub-group analysis was performed to indirectly compare single- versus dual-portal endoscopic approaches. Statistical analysis was performed via a random-effects model using Review Manager 5 Software.

Results:

A meta-analysis of 23 studies revealed a significantly higher incidence of transient postoperative nerve injury with ECTR, regardless of the number of portals, as compared with OCTR, although overall complication and re-operation rates were equivalent. Scar tenderness was significantly diminished with dual-portal endoscopic release when compared to single-portal and open methods. The rates of pillar pain, symptom relief, and patient reported satisfaction did not differ significantly between treatment groups.

Conclusions:

Although endoscopic surgery may be appealing in terms of reduced postoperative morbidity and a faster return to work for patients, surgeons should be mindful of the associated learning curve and higher incidence of transient nerve injury. Further study is required to identify if an advantage exists between different endoscopic techniques.
Congenital Bilateral Anomaly of the Flexor Pollicis Longus Tendon Without Thenar Atrophy: A Case Report
Authors: Meeuwis Iris H. M. , Venderink Dick J. , Verhagen Wim I. M.
Published: February 2022

In this case report, we describe an adult patient with bilateral congenital absence of the m. flexor pollicis longus (FPL) without any other anomalies or thenar atrophy. The FPL muscle acts to flex the thumb and is innervated by the anterior interosseous nerve. Impaired function of the FPL muscle may have several causes. A bilateral anomaly of the FPL tendon is a rare phenomenon, with only a few cases having been reported. This case report does not only demonstrate the diagnosis of bilateral FPL tendon anomaly by physical examination and magnetic resonance imaging, it also includes the embryological development of the FPL muscle and tendon.
Classic Type of Epithelioid Sarcoma of the Distal Upper Extremity: Clinical and Oncological Characteristics
Authors: Farzaliyev Farhad , Steinau Hans-Ulrich , Ring Andrej , Beck Paula , Hardes Jendrik , Streitbürger Arne , Podleska Lars Erik
Published: February 2022

Background:

The classic type of epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare, aggressive soft tissue neoplasm that most commonly affects the distal upper extremities of young patients. This study aimed to assess clinical features and provide a long-term report of the oncological outcome.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed our clinical database for patients with ES of the distal upper extremities.

Results:

Twenty-three patients with ES of the distal upper extremity were treated surgically between January 1990 and August 2018. ES affected most commonly the palmar side of young patients. The most common site affected by a sarcoma was the wrist in 47.8% of cases, followed by metacarpals and fingers with 34.8% and 17.4%, respectively. Most of the patients were treated according to the protocols of interdisciplinary tumor boards with multimodal therapy. A local recurrence was observed in 7 patients (30.4%). The 5 - and 10-year recurrence-free survival was 80.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 68.6-76.8) and 60.9% (95% CI: 53.5-68.3), respectively. The 5- and 10-years disease-specific survival was 89.9% (95% CI: 87-92.8) and 61.9% (95% CI: 56.5-67.3), respectively. Five patients (21.7%) had metastasis in regional lymph nodes.

Conclusion:

The classic type of ES represents a group of high-grade sarcomas, which affect the dominantly distal upper extremity. Specific clinical, diagnostic, and oncological characteristics make it difficult to diagnose and therapy. Wide tumor resection as a part of multimodal therapy remains a more viable and common treatment option for patients with ES on distal extremities. High rates of lymph node metastasis are typical for ES.
Identifying subgroups based on self-assessment of ability in patients with schizophrenia and its relationship with vocational outcomes
Authors: Okada Hiroki
Published: February 2022

Background/Objectives

People with schizophrenia have defective self-assessment of ability (i.e., loss of introspective accuracy [IA]). Although previous studies grouped people according to the degree of IA, the clinical features of these subgroups have not been clarified. Additionally, the determinants of outcomes depending on self-assessment remain unknown. We aimed to identify the clinical features that can help distinguish these subgroups and whether the determinants of vocational outcomes differed between the groups.

Methods

The self-assessment ability of 100 people with schizophrenia was examined and categorized as accurate, over-, or under-estimators. Multiple discriminant analysis was also performed. After demonstrating statistical validity, the relative effects of positive and negative symptoms, cognitive function, and level of IA on vocational outcomes were also examined for each subgroup.

Results

The symptoms that particularly explained the differences between these subgroups were positive and negative (expressing factors) symptoms: p < .001. Using the determinants of vocational outcomes in each subgroup, the over-estimator subgroup was characterized by positive symptoms: p = .025, the under-estimator group, by the underestimation of their own ability: p = .042, and the accurate estimator group, by cognitive function: p = .006.

Conclusion

Reduced IA can be a core mediator of various symptoms. Thus, tailoring the target and strategy of interventions for vocational outcomes according to the accuracy and quality of IA is important in clinical settings.
Item-specific control of attention capture: An eye movement study
Authors: Wang Chao , LaPointe Mitchell Reid Pond , Venkateshan Shree , Zhao Guang , Tao Weidong , Sun Hong-Jin , Milliken Bruce
Published: February 2022

Measures of attentional capture are sensitive to attentional control settings. Recent research suggests that such control settings can be linked associatively to specific items. Rapid item-specific retrieval of these control settings can then modulate measures of attentional capture. However, the processes that produce this item-specific control of attentional capture are unclear. The current study addressed this issue by examining eye-movement patterns associated with the item-specific proportion congruency effect (ISPC). Participants searched for a shape singleton target in search displays that also contained a colour singleton—the colour singleton was either the same item as the shape singleton (congruent trials) or a different item (incongruent trials). The relative proportions of congruent and incongruent trials were manipulated separately for two distinct item types that were randomly intermixed. Response times (RTs) were faster on congruent than incongruent trials, and this congruency effect was larger for high-proportion congruent (HPC) than low-proportion congruent (LPC) items. Eye movement data revealed a higher proportion of saccades towards the distractor and longer dwell times on the distractor in the HPC condition. These results suggest that item-specific associative learning can influence the strength of representation of the task goal (e.g., find the odd shape), a form of selection history effect in visual search.
Sex differences in social and spatial perspective taking: A replication and extension of Tarampi et al. (2016)
Authors: Geer Elyssa A , Ganley Colleen
Published: February 2022

Tarampi and colleagues (2016) found that females performed better on spatial perspective-taking tasks when social information was present. They interpreted this finding to suggest that adding social information would uniquely improve the performance of females due to their better social perspective taking. In this replication and extension study, we tested an alternative explanation for their results: the tasks with social information also provided spatial information which could explain improved performance. In a study with 278 college students, we used the two versions of the tasks from their study (no social or spatial information and with social and spatial information) and added two versions that isolate only social and only spatial information. Our replication of Tarampi et al.’s analyses found no difference in females’ performance on the tasks; however, when both females and males were included, we found some evidence for better performance in the social and spatial condition. Examining both males’ and females’ performance in all four conditions, we found that males outperformed females. In addition, participants who completed tasks with spatial information performed better. Findings suggest the difference observed in Tarampi et al. may have been due to the inclusion of spatial information, not social information, that improves task performance for both females and males. These results suggest that spatial perspective-taking performance is better when given even subtle spatial cues, but that social information alone does not appear to improve performance, despite ties with social perspective taking.
Evidence of treating spasticity before it develops: a systematic review of spasticity outcomes in acute spinal cord injury interventional trials
Authors: Stampas Argyrios , Hook Michelle , Korupolu Radha , Jethani Lavina , Kaner Mahmut T. , Pemberton Erinn , Li Sheng , Francisco Gerard E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction:

Spasticity is a common consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI), estimated to affect up to 93% of people living with SCI in the community. Problematic spasticity affects around 35% people with SCI spasticity. The early period after injury is believed to be the most opportune time for neural plasticity after SCI. We hypothesize that clinical interventions in the early period could reduce the incidence of spasticity. To address this, we evaluated the spasticity outcomes of clinical trials with interventions early after SCI.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review of the literature between January 2000 and May 2021 to identify control trials, in humans and animals, that were performed early after SCI that included measures of spasticity in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Results:

Our search yielded 1,463 records of which we reviewed 852 abstracts and included 8 human trial peer-reviewed publications and 9 animal studies. The 9 animal trials largely supported the hypothesis that early intervention can reduce spasticity, including evidence from electrophysiological, behavioral, and histologic measures. Of the 8 human trials, only one study measured spasticity as a primary outcome with a sample size sufficient to test the hypothesis. In this study, neuromodulation of the spinal cord using electric stimulation of the common peroneal nerve reduced spasticity in the lower extremities compared to controls.

Conclusion:

Given the prevalence of problematic spasticity, there is surprisingly little research being performed in the early period of SCI that includes spasticity measures, and even fewer studies that directly address spasticity. More research on the potential for early interventions to mitigate spasticity is needed.
Role perception of infection control link nurses; a multi-centre qualitative study
Authors: Dekker Mireille , Mansfeld Rosa van , Vandenbroucke-Grauls Christina MJE , Lauret Tessa E , Schutijser Bernadette CFM , de Bruijne Martine C , Jongerden Irene P
Published: February 2022

Background

Infection control link nurses (ICLN) disseminate knowledge on infection prevention topics to their peers. Little is known about how they succeed and thereby contribute to infection prevention in daily practise.

Aim

To explore the experiences of infection control link nurses regarding their role in acute care hospitals and identify perceived facilitators and best practices.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study with semi-structured individual and focus group interviews with ICLN. The effect of COVID-19 on the ICLN role was added as a topic in focus group interviews during the pandemic.

Results

Twenty-six ICLN working in acute care hospitals were interviewed. ICLN perceived their role as to identify, monitor, facilitate and inform their colleagues on infection prevention topics related to their ward. Their experiences vary from feeling challenged and wonder how to get started, to feeling confident and taking initiatives that lead to ward-based improvements. When inspired by each other and supported by infection control practitioners or managers, ICLN feel empowered to initiate more activities to improve practice. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ICLN felt their responsibilities were magnified. When transferred to another ward, the focus on the ICLN role seemed dispersed.

Discussion

Empowered ICLN adjust and operationalize infection prevention policies to fit the conditions of their specific wards and provide practical instructions and feedback to their peers which enable better compliance to infection prevention policies. Support and inspiration from other ICLN, infection control practitioners and management contribute to this empowerment and consequently to taking impactful initiatives to improve practice.
A systematic review to compare physiotherapy treatment programmes for atraumatic shoulder instability
Authors: Griffin Jake , Jaggi Anju , Daniell Helena , Chester Rachel
Published: February 2022

Background

Optimal physiotherapy treatment is uncertain for atraumatic shoulder instability (ASI), the primary aim of this systematic scoping review was to compare physiotherapy treatment programmes for people with ASI. The secondary aims were to evaluate outcome measures used and to compare the effectiveness of these programmes.

Methods

CINAHL, EMBASE and Medline databases were searched for studies, except single case studies, published between 1950 and July 2021. 12 critical appraisal items covered three domains; internal validity, transferability to wider population and reporting.

Results

Ten studies were included; one randomised controlled trial, 6 cohort studies and 3 case series. There were 491 participants. Treatment programmes included education, movement re-education, static posture correction, shoulder muscle strengthening, functional training, and adjuncts. All studies used patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), 7 of which reported a statistically significant improvement ( p < 0.05) post-treatment. There was no clear relationship between programmes and outcomes. PROMs specific to shoulder instability were all found to detect statistically significant differences post-treatment.

Discussion

There does not appear to be one optimal physiotherapy treatment programme for ASI. Future studies should use PROMs that are valid in the shoulder instability population and use more outcome measures that are specific to impairments being targeted.
How Pandemic Films Help Us Understand Outbreaks: Implications for Futures and Foresight
Authors: Song Zhaoli , Fergnani Alessandro
Published: February 2022

We analyzed 30 pandemic films and developed a processual model to explain the social-level coping mechanisms to confront pandemics as portrayed in films. The model describes the underlying collective understanding of disease outbreaks. The model suggests that pandemic films divide the disease outbreak into three phases: emergence, transmission, and termination. Concurrently, three social processes tend to be activated to cope with the pandemic: healthcare, political, and public awareness. This model is used to compare the social imaginary reflected in films with the current COVID-19 outbreak. The resemblance of the model and the current outbreak suggests that fictional pandemic films may still follow our collective understanding of the pandemic dynamics. Four scenarios are suggested as road maps for futures and foresight practice concerned with future pandemic outbreaks.
Comparison of Primary Versus Revision Lumbar Discectomy Using a Biportal Endoscopic Technique
Authors: Kang Min-Seok , Park Hyun-Jin , You Ki-Han , Choi Dae-Jung , Park Chang-Won , Chung Hoon-Jae
Published: February 2022

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Objective

To compare the clinical outcomes of the biportal endoscopic technique for primary lumbar discectomy (BE-LD) and revision lumbar discectomy (BE-RLD).

Methods

Eighty-one consecutive patients who underwent BE-LD or BE-RLD, and could be followed up for at least 12 months were divided into two groups: Group A (BE-LD; n = 59) and Group B (BE-RLD; n = 22). Clinical outcomes included the visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and modified MacNab’s criteria. Perioperative results included operation time (OT), length of hospital stay (LOS), amount of surgical drain, and kinetics of serum creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Clinical and perioperative outcomes were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 2 days and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Postoperative complications were noted.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvement in pain (VAS) and disability (ODI) compared to baseline values at postoperative day 2, which lasted until the final follow-up. There were no significant differences in the improvement of the VAS and ODI scores between the groups. According to the modified MacNab’s criteria, 88.1 and 90.9% of the patients were excellent or good in groups A and B, respectively. OT, LOS, amount of surgical drain, and kinetics in serum CRP and CPK levels were comparable. Complications in Group A included incidental durotomy (n = 2), epidural hematoma (n = 1), and local recurrence (n = 1) and in Group B incidental durotomy (n = 1) and epidural hematoma (n = 1).

Conclusion

BE-RLD showed favorable clinical outcomes, less postoperative pain, and early laboratory recovery equivalent to BE-LD.
Patient Factors Associated With Increased Risk for Complications After the Latarjet Procedure
Authors: Danilkowicz Richard M. , Crook Bryan , Kim Jaewhan , Robinette Jesse Patton , O’Donnell Jeffrey , Grimm Nathan L.
Published: February 2022

Background:

The open Latarjet has become the most common method of addressing significant glenoid bone loss in patients with recurrent glenohumeral instability.

Purpose:

To describe national trends in Latarjet procedures and risk factors for complications associated with this procedure.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Eligible patients were identified through the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) data set over the years 2014 to 2018 by using the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for “capsulorrhaphy anterior with coracoid process transfer” (CPT 23462). Patient and surgical outcome variables were extracted and analyzed from the NSQIP database. Logistic regression analysis and odds ratios (ORs) were performed to evaluate the relative risk of complications.

Results:

The authors identified 458 patients (399 men and 59 women) from the data set. The mean body mass index was 27.4 kg/m2, and mean operative time was 130.2 minutes. Statistically significant variables included smoking status and sex, which were further stratified. Smokers were 2.19 times more likely to experience at least 1 adverse outcome, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, reoperation, wound infection, unplanned readmission, or readmission (95% CI, 0.62-7.82). Specifically, smokers were 7.8 times more likely to have a DVT (95% CI, 0.58-105.96), 1.4 times more likely to undergo reoperation (95% CI, 0.14-5.73), and 2.4 times more likely to have an unplanned readmission (95% CI, 0.19-28.68). Women were 2.2 times more likely to experience at least 1 adverse outcome. Specifically, women were found to be 6.4 times more likely to have a DVT (95% CI, 0.76-54.87), 4.1 times more likely to have an unplanned readmission (95% CI, 0.00-106.21), and 4.7 times more likely to have a readmission (95% CI, 0.00-13.92).

Conclusion:

The results indicate that smokers and female patients are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse outcomes and may require additional pre- and postprocedural precautions when undergoing the Latarjet procedure. With the increase in frequency, providers should be aware of patient-related factors that may lead to adverse outcomes.
Diversion and Restorative Justice: Salt Lake Peer Court Disrupting Disproportionate Minority Contact?
Authors: Muñoz Ed A. , Owen Rebecca Y. , Próspero Moisés , Adkins Daniel E.
Published: February 2022

There is an increased acceptance of youth courts grounded in restorative justice principles to divert first-time nonviolent offenders away from formal juvenile court entry. Research assessing the effectiveness of various teen/peer courts is mixed, and focuses mainly on recidivism. This study analyzes 2010 to 2016 Salt Lake Peer Court data to examine the relationship legal and extralegal variables have on the participation in and completion of this diversionary program for first-time youth offenders. Overall, legal factors affected outcomes more than extralegal factors. Gender proved insignificant in both models with race, age, and school socioeconomic status (SES) producing varied significant effects in outcome models. Offense severity produced consistent strong significant effects across model outcomes. Implications of the study point to the possibilities of peer courts for reducing disproportionate minority contact.
Wide Complex Tachycardia in Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy: Electrocardiogramand Intracardiac Electrogram Features
Authors: Nagarakanti Rangadham , Raj Kavin
Published: February 2022

Case of an arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy with associated arrhythmias discussing classical electrocardiogram and intracardiac electrogram findings.
Geochemistry of detrital zinc-rich chromite in conglomerates from eastern India
Authors: Pal Dipak C , Sarkar Biplab Chandra , Ghosh Sarthak , Sen Rahul , Jana Ashim , Mukhopadhyay Soumik , Sinha Deepak K
Published: February 2022

On the western part of the eastern Indian shield, Archaean basement (Bonai granite) is overlain by radioactive conglomerate. The conglomerate contains well-rounded, fractured Mg-poor (<0.18 wt.% MgO), Al-rich (up to 21.14 wt.% Al2O3) Zn-rich chromite (>35.0 wt.% Cr2O3) containing up to 15.5 wt.% ZnO. This is the first reported occurrence of detrital zinc-rich chromite having such unusually high ZnO from India, and to our knowledge, the third reported occurrence in radioactive quartz-pebble conglomerate after Witwatersrand, South Africa and Tarkwa, Ghana. Zinc-rich chromite grains are either clean or contain exsolution blebs/lamella of rutile. The conglomerates show evidence for post-depositional hydrothermal fluid influx and fluid-induced mineral alteration. The strong negative correlation between Zn and Fe2+, Al and Cr, and Al and Fe3+, and strong positive correlation between Zn and Al suggest secondary incorporation of Zn and Al by substitution of Fe2+ and Cr (and Fe3+), respectively, leading to partial transformation of (Fe)(Cr,Al,Fe3+)2O4 towards ZnAl2O4 composition. The chromite grains were possibly derived from komatiite. The timing of Zn enrichment, either at the provenance prior to sedimentation, or at the depositional site post-dating sedimentation, remains unresolved.
Acute GVHD, BK virus hemorrhagic cystitis and age are risk factors for transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy in adults
Authors: Vasu Sumithira , Bostic Matthew , Zhao Qiuhong , Sharma Nidhi , Puto Marcin , Knight Samantha , Scott Denise , Guzman Rosalyn , Kromer Meghan , Tackett Karen , Lind Kristin , Knill Kathryn , Watson Emily , Wall Sarah , Saad Ayman , Choe Hannah , Larkin Karilyn , Brammer Jonathan , Jaglowski Samantha , Penza Sam , Davies Stella M. , Cataland Spero
Published: February 2022

Hematopoietic cell transplantation–associated thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a complication associated with higher nonrelapse mortality (NRM) in patients who undergo allogeneic transplant (HCT). Current classification criteria are not generally agreed on or validated, and the presence of confounding factors after transplant contribute to underdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of TMA. We studied risk factors, incidence, and biomarkers of TMA in 119 adult allogeneic HCT recipients. Twenty-seven patients developed a clinically actionable phenotype of TMA (CA-TMA) and the incidence of CA-TMA was 22% by day 180. Among the 27 patients who developed CA-TMA, 10 developed it before the onset of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD), and 17 patients developed it after the onset of aGVHD. We report for the first time that age >50 years, BK hemorrhagic cystitis, and other viral infections (CMV, HHV-6, or adenovirus) are risk factors for adult CA-TMA. Even after adjustment for aGVHD, CA-TMA was independently associated with significantly higher NRM. These data illustrate relationships between CA-TMA and aGVHD, describe new risk factors for CA-TMA and emphasizes the need to develop validated set of criteria for timely diagnosis.
Mucosal cryobiopsies: a new method for studying airway pathology in asthma
Authors: Hvidtfeldt Morten , Sverrild Asger , Pulga Alexis , Frøssing Laurits , Silberbrandt Alexander , Sanden Caroline , Clausson Carl Magnus , Bornesund Daisy , Erjefält Jonas , Porsbjerg Celeste
Published: February 2022

Background

In vivo
studies of airway pathology in obstructive lung disease are limited by poor quality of specimens obtained with forceps. Obtainment of cryobiopsies has increased diagnostic yield in cancer and interstitial lung disease but has not been used in patients with asthma. In a recent pilot study, we found mucosal cryobiopsies to be larger and more intact than conventional forceps biopsies. The aim of the present study was to compare quality and safety of mucosal cryobiopsies
versus
conventional forceps biopsies in patients with asthma.

Methods

Endobronchial biopsies were obtained with forceps and cryoprobe from patients with asthma not currently treated with inhaled steroids and evaluated histologically.

Results

A total of 240 cryobiopsies and 288 forceps biopsies were obtained from 48 patients. Bleeding from the biopsy site was common but self-limiting. No major complications related to the procedure were seen. Cryobiopsy cross areas were four times larger compared with forceps. Stretches of intact epithelium were detected in all cryobiopsies compared to 33% in forceps biopsies. Further, the length of intact epithelium was on average four times longer in the cryobiopsies. Importantly, there was a good preservation of both antigens and mRNA in the cryobiopsies ensuring a suitability and robustness for immunohistochemistry and
in situ
hybridisation.

Conclusion

Obtainment of mucosal cryobiopsies in patients with asthma is safe and yields biopsies that are significantly larger and morphologically better preserved compared with traditional forceps biopsies. The cryotechnique thus seems to be a promising tool for future
in vivo
studies of airway pathology.