bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation-induced papillary thyroid cancer: is it a distinct clinical entity?
Authors: Bresciani Lorenzo , Orlandi Ester , Piazza Cesare
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

To present the current status of knowledge regarding radiation-induced papillary thyroid cancer (RIPTC), defining its epidemiologic, pathologic, and clinical characteristics, with ensuing possible therapeutic and prognostic consequences.

Recent findings

Cumulative evidence shows that RIPTC resembles sporadic papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) of comparable age, both in terms of clinical-pathological features and prognosis. Therefore, more aggressive treatment does not seem to be required when managing RIPTC as its prognosis is comparable to that of never-irradiated patients.

Radiation exposure in childhood is a well-documented risk factor for development of PTC. Therefore, increased exposure to medical or environmental radiation may be in part responsible, along with increased screening, of the recent burgeoning incidence of PTC. A specific morphological and molecular portrait of RIPTC is unlikely to exist. The more aggressive histologic and clinical features initially reported in radiation-induced cases are consistent with the expectations in nonradiation-related PTC of a comparable age. Aggressive histology, nodal, and distant metastases correlate with early age at onset rather than with radiation exposure. Although relapses are frequent in children, long-term cancer-specific mortality is approximately 1%, lower than that observed for adults and comparable between irradiated and nonirradiated cohorts. RIPTC does not require more aggressive surgery or more adjuvant treatments, as prognosis is as good as that of sporadic PTC when matched for stage and treatment received.
Air pollution, ambient temperature, green space and preterm birth
Authors: Kloog Itai
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

Preterm birth is the leading cause of global child mortality, and survivors are at increased risk of multiple morbidities that can continue into adulthood. Recent studies have suggested that maternal exposure to air pollution and high and low ambient temperatures may increase the risk of preterm birth, whereas proximity to green space may decrease it. This review summarizes these findings and suggests avenues for further research.

Recent findings

Particulate matter may be associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, but the magnitude of the effect remains unclear. Heat and cold likely increase the risk of preterm birth, with stronger evidence for heat. The first and third trimesters may be sensitive periods for exposure to both temperature and particulate matter, but the underlying biological mechanisms are incompletely understood. Context-appropriate green space can substantially reduce particulate matter levels and mitigate urban heat islands.

In a warming, urbanizing world, exposure to unusual temperatures and elevated particulate matter levels represent an increasing risk for pregnant women. Green infrastructure might help mitigate this risk, but further research is needed to confirm its effects in complex urban environments and evaluate the contribution of both indoor and outdoor particulate matter and air temperature to personal exposure and preterm birth.
Human Fibrinogen Concentrate and Fresh Frozen Plasma in the Management of Severe Acquired Hypofibrinogenemia in Children With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Results of a Retrospective Survey
Authors: Giordano Paola , Grassi Massimo , Saracco Paola , Luciani Matteo , Colombini Antonella , Testi Anna M. , Micalizzi Concetta , Petruzziello Fara , Putti Maria C. , Casale Fiorina , Consarino Caterina , Mura Rosa M. , Mastrodicasa Elena , Notarangelo Lucia D. , Onofrillo Daniela , Pollio Berardino , Rizzari Carmelo , Tafuri Silvio , De Leonardis Francesco , Corallo Paola C. , Santoro Nicola
Published: January 2019

Objective of the Study:

In this study we aimed to retrospectively evaluate how centers, belonging to the Associazione Italiana Ematologia e Oncologia Pediatrica (AIEOP), manage severe acquired hypofibrinogenemia in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, particularly evaluating the therapeutic role of human fibrinogen concentrate (HFC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP).

Methods:

We conducted a survey among AIEOP centers; thereafter, we collected and analyzed data with regard to the treatment of episodes of severe acquired hypofibrinogenemia occurring during the induction and reinduction phases of the AIEOP-BFM ALL 2009 protocol.

Results:

In total, 15 of the 37 AIEOP centers invited to join the survey agreed to collect the data, with 10 and 5 centers declaring to react to severe acquired hypofibrinogenemia (<70 mg/dL) by administering HFC or FFP, respectively. Of the 150 episodes of severe hypofibrinogenemia occurring in 101 patients, 47.3% were treated with HFC and 52.7% with FFP, with a normalization of fibrinogen levels achieved in greater proportion and in a shorter amount of time in the HFC group as compared with the FFP group. None of the patients presented with bleeding or thrombosis during the observation period.

Conclusions:

Even with the limitations of the retrospective nature of this study, HFC seems to be a safe and effective alternative to FFP for replacement therapy in case of severe hypofibrinogenemia in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Intensity of Therapy for Malignancy and Risk for Recurrent and Complicated Clostridium difficile Infection in Children
Authors: Willis Zachary I. , Nicholson Maribeth R. , Esbenshade Adam J. , Xu Meng , Slaughter James C. , Friedman Debra L. , Edwards Kathryn M. , Di Pentima Maria C.
Published: January 2019

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is common in pediatric oncology patients and is often associated with recurrences and complications. We hypothesized that higher intensity of chemotherapy would be associated with these outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort study including all cases of primary CDI in children with malignancy in our institution for over 7 years. Intensity of chemotherapy was measured by the Intensity of Treatment Rating Scale, third edition, ranging from level 1 (minimal) to 4 (highest). Outcomes included recurrence within both 56 and 180 days, CDI-associated complications, and primary treatment failure (PTF). Risk of recurrence was compared using Cox proportional hazards regression. Among 192 patients with CDI and malignancy, 122 met inclusion criteria. CDI recurred in 27% (31/115) of patients followed for 56 days and 46% (48/104) of patients followed for 180 days. Fourteen patients (11.4%) had a CDI-associated complication, including 4 intensive care unit admissions and 3 surgical procedures, but no deaths. Ten patients (8.2%) had PTF. Although PTF and severe complications were infrequent, recurrence was common in our cohort. None of these outcomes were associated with level of treatment intensity. More research is required to assess oncologic and nononcologic risk factors for CDI recurrence, PTF, and severe CDI-associated complications.
Improved Outcome of Newly Diagnosed Childhood Mature B-Cell Lymphoma/Leukemia With High Tumor Burden Treated With BFM95-based Protocol Combining Rituximab: A Report From Shanghai, China
Authors: Fu Yang , Wang Hongsheng , Zhai Xiaowen , Qian Xiaowen , Meng Jianhua , Miao Hui , Zhu Xiaohua , Yu Yi , Lu Fengjuan
Published: January 2019

In this study we evaluated children with newly diagnosed advanced (stage III and stage IV) mature B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) or mature B-cell acute leukemia (B-AL), who were treated with Berlin-Frankfurt-Münster (BFM)95-based protocol combined with rituximab (R+BFM95). Our study recruited 46 patients who were treated with BFM95 protocol combined with rituximab. There are 23 patients as the historical control treated with BFM90 protocol. Compared with patients treated with BFM90 protocol, the 5-year event-free survival (EFS) rate of patients under R+BFM95 was higher (83.7%±5.7% vs. 69.6%±9.6%; P=0.1062). Among subgroups of our patients, the 5-year EFS of patients with stage III was 87.3%±6.1% vs. 77.8%±9.8% (P=0.2998), stage IV/B-AL was 72.7%±13.4% versus 40.0%±21.9% (P=0.0878) between patients treated with R+BFM95 and BFM90, respectively. Among patients whose lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level were <500 U/L at diagnosis, R+BFM95 protocol reached 100% survival, nevertheless the 5-year EFS of patients in this group was not statistically different from that of patients treated with BFM90 (92.3%±7.4%; P=0.2994). Among patients had LDH≥500 U/L at diagnosis, the 5-year EFS in R+BFM95 group was 77.2%±7.7% (32 patients) and significantly higher than that of BFM90 group (40.0%±15.5%, 10 patients; P=0.0048). We found that rituximab has improved the EFS of childhood B-NHL/B-AL with LDH≥500U/L. Our results require validation from future studies with large cohort.
Smartphone applications validated for joint angle measurement: a systematic review
Authors: Longoni Luca , Brunati Roberto , Sale Patrizio , Casale Roberto , Ronconi Gianpaolo , Ferriero Giorgio
Published: January 2019

Mobile health apps are growing constantly in number and popularity. Some mobile apps are used for clinical assessment, and consequently need to be verified and validated appropriately, along with the mobile platform, to ensure their safe and effective operation. We review the current literature on available smartphone goniometric apps validated for joint angle measurement and their main psychometric characteristics. A literature search of Medline and Scopus databases was performed to select papers on smartphone commercial apps validated for joint angle measurement and relevant to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. A platform search verified whether the selected apps were still available for download. The literature search identified 126 papers in Medline and 113 in Scopus, 49 of which were selected. They dealt with the validation of 23 apps, eight of which were no longer available and therefore excluded from the review. Psychometric characteristics of the selected apps were robust, but heterogeneity of the studies did not enable comparisons between apps to identify the most valid one. The increase in the number of apps and validation studies highlights the growing interest in this new approach for measuring body angles. Given the precarious commercial availability of some apps, when research is the goal, it is advisable to select apps with the longest durability. A need continues to exist for validation studies on available apps focused on goniometric measurement in gait or during performance of therapeutic exercises in neurological and orthopedic disorders.
Slow versus traditional strength training in obese female participants: preliminary results
Authors: Scarin Sarah , Aspesi Valentina , Malchiodi Albedi Giovanna , Cimolin Veronica , Cau Nicola , Galli Samuele , Capodaglio Paolo
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to provide comparative data on a slow versus a traditional supervised resistance training in an obese female population. Forty obese female patients admitted to our rehabilitation hospital were assigned randomly to a slow training group (ST group; mean age: 47.44 years, mean BMI: 38.53 kg/m2) and a traditional training group (TT group; mean age: 54.34 years, mean BMI: 39.37 kg/m2). The ST protocol included five repetitions for five consecutive bouts on the leg press and extension machine. The duration of each repetition (concentric+eccentric phases) was 6 s for leg press and 5 s for leg extension. The initial load was 50% of the one repetition maximum and then gradually reduced by 20% for each bout. The TT protocol included six consecutive repetitions for five bouts on the leg press and leg extension with 80% of the one repetition maximum load. Both groups performed 10 sessions. All of the patients were assessed by a visual analogue scale for pain, a Borg scale for subjective fatigue, and an isokinetic strength test. Statistically significant strength improvements were observed in both groups. In ST group statistically significant improvements in visual analogue scale scores for knee pain were found at post, larger than that observed in TT group. Subjectively perceived fatigue on the Borg scale decreased more at post in ST group in comparison with TT group. Our preliminary data suggest that ST may represent a preferential strengthening method in obese patients as it can lead to significant strength gains with a relatively lower loading effect on the knee, and hence reduced perception of pain.
Applied Force During Prone Restraint
Authors: Kroll Mark W. , Brave Michael A. , Kleist Scott R. , Ritter Mollie B. , Ross Darrell L. , Karch Steven B.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

It has been suggested that law enforcement officer (LEO) weight on the backs of prone subjects may cause asphyxia.

Methods

Law enforcement officers used their agency-trained “local” single- and double-knee techniques, the “Wisconsin” 3-Point Ground Stabilization, and the Human Factor Research Group Inc single-knee tactical handcuffing techniques, and the weight force was measured.

Results

Forty-one LEOs (36 men, 5 women) participated, aged 38.4 ± 8.3 years, and weighing 96.2 ± 19.4 kg. The double-knee technique transmitted more weight than single knee (P < 0.0001). Wisconsin technique force was lower than other single-knee techniques (P < 0.0001). Double-knee weight was 23.3 kg plus 24% of LEO's body weight. Mean values for local and Human Factor Research Group Inc single-knee were 30.9 and 32.9 kg, respectively. The Wisconsin single knee weight force was given by 15.4 kg plus 9.5 kg for a male.

Conclusions

A double-knee technique applies more weight force than single-knee techniques. The Wisconsin single-knee technique provides the least weight force of single-knee techniques. Law enforcement officer body weight is irrelevant to prone-force weight with single-knee techniques. With double-knee restraint, it has a modest influence. Our data do not support the hypothesis of restraint asphyxia.
A Case of Bilateral Extracranial Internal Carotid Artery Dissection Due to the Helmet Strap After Motorcycle Crash
Authors: Gioia Sara , Franceschetto Lisa , Lancia Massimo , Bacci Mauro , Suadoni Fabio
Published: January 2019

The authors report a case of a man who developed stroke symptoms a few days after a road accident on his motorcycle. Radiographic examinations revealed the presence of bilateral dissection of the extracranial internal carotid arteries with signs of involvement of the brain parenchyma.

The location, timing, and presentation lead to the conclusion that the carotid lesions were secondary to the motorcycle collision; in particular, we suppose that it is due to the pressure exerted by the helmet strap worn. Although helmets have undoubtedly prevented serious injuries, this report highlights that the helmets themselves may cause injuries, especially to cervical soft tissues and vessels.
Fatal Intestinal Obstruction in a Patient With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Authors: Wygant Cassandra Maria , Cohle Stephen D.
Published: January 2019

We describe an 8-year-old white boy with a history of fetal alcohol syndrome and pica, who was found dead on the floor by his mother. The child died from massive intestinal dilatation causing asphyxia. We discuss the potential pathogenetic mechanisms of intestinal dilation in patients with fetal alcohol syndrome.
Elevated Cerebrospinal Fluid Sodium and Chloride Levels in a Saltwater Drowning Death
Authors: Garland Jack , Philcox Winston , Kesha Kilak , McCarthy Sinead , Lam Leo (Chi Sing) , Palmiere Cristian , Hensby-Bennett Sarah , Stables Simon , Tse Rexson
Published: January 2019

To ascribe a cause of death from drowning in a body immersed in water can be difficult because of the absence of specific postmortem findings and unreliable ancillary tests. Postmortem vitreous biochemical analysis is documented to be a useful adjunct ancillary test to aid the diagnosis of saltwater drowning. A major confounding factor in using postmortem vitreous is the effect of electrolyte diffusion and water osmosis during immersion. A recent animal study suggested that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biochemical analysis, which is unaffected by immersion, may be an alternative. However, to date, there are no human data to support this. We report a saltwater drowning death from presumed suicide in which the postmortem CSF sodium and chloride level was elevated compared with nonimmersion deaths. This case gives evidence to support the potential use of postmortem CSF sodium and chloride level as an adjunct to the diagnosis of saltwater drowning.
Granuloma With an Underlying Lymphoma: A Diagnostic Challenge and a Wider Histologic Spectrum Including Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma
Authors: Wu Chih-Ying , Wang Ren-Ching , Chen Bo-Jung , Chen Wei-Yu , Jhuang Jie-Yang , Chang Ming-Chih , Wu Yu-Hung , Nakada Norihiro , Karube Kennosuke , Chuang Shih-Sung
Published: January 2019

Granulomatous reaction is not uncommon in histopathology, with various etiologies in different organs and geographic regions. Lymphoma is one of the underlying causes of granuloma; and sometimes the neoplastic cells may be masked by the granulomatous reaction. In this report, we present our experience with 7 lymphoma cases of various histologic types with coexisting granuloma to show the diagnostic challenges. In all cases, a granulomatous reaction was simultaneously present with the neoplastic cells. The 7 cases included 3 cases of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma in the lymph node or skin including one coexisting with mycobacterial infection, 2 cases of classical Hodgkin lymphoma involving the liver, and 1 case each of systemic Epstein-Barr virus–positive peripheral T-cell lymphoma and a hepatic inflammatory pseudotumor-like follicular dendritic cell sarcoma. Three cases were initially misdiagnosed as reactive change or mycobacterial infection instead of lymphoma, and a wrong histologic lymphoma type was diagnosed in 1 case. In this report, we showed that granulomatous reaction might mask lymphomas of various histologic types; and a diagnosis of mycobacterial infection or sarcoidosis could not exclude the possibility of an underlying lymphoma. We emphasized the importance of detailed histologic examination with the aid of ancillary studies to reach a correct diagnosis and to avoid inappropriate management of the patients. Our study also broadened the spectrum of lymphoma types coexisting with granuloma.
Transferred-tissue Microarray for Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Test for Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lin Chih-Hung , Wen Chien-Hui , Liu Chia-Hsing , Yang Ching-Hsiu
Published: January 2019

Context:

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status of breast carcinomas is usually determined by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining and, if the IHC results are equivocal, in situ hybridization (ISH). Multiple ISH tests are sometimes required for multiple primary or metastatic tumors. A method for multiplex ISH test on tissues from multiple blocks is helpful in these situations.

Object:

To evaluate the clinical application of transferred-tissue microarray (TTM) followed by a dual-probe HER2 fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

Design:

A 3×3 TTM technique was successfully established using 152 invasive mammary carcinoma tissue fragments. To evaluate detection of HER2 positive tumors, this cohort was enriched with tumors with IHC scores of 2 and 3.

Results:

The HER2 FISH analyses revealed that all transferred-tissue fragments were adequate for determining HER2 amplification. Tissue loss was minimal and had no major adverse effects on interpretation of the test results. Of the 81 tumors with IHC scores of 3, 72 (88.8%) were positive for HER2 FISH. The remaining tumors were negative for HER2 FISH in both TTM and reflex whole tissue section. Finally, FISH results for tumors with IHC scores of 2 were compared between TTM and whole tissue section. Concordance was high in overall positivity/negativity (100%), HER2 copy number (97.5%), and HER2/CEP17 ratio (100%).

Conclusions:

This novel technique is a reliable option for performing multiple HER2 FISH tests simultaneously in clinical and research-oriented settings with less tissue damage compared with conventional tissue microarray techniques.
One Actor, Many Roles: Histopathologies Associated With APOL1 Genetic Variants
Authors: Kopp Jeffrey B. , Rosenberg Avi Z.
Published: January 2019

Genetic variants in APOL1, encoding apolipoprotein L1, are major drivers of glomerular disease in peoples of sub-Saharan African descent. APOL1-associated primary glomerular diseases include focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathies, and arterionephrosclerosis. Other conditions where APOL1 variants affect outcomes include membranous nephropathy, lupus nephritis, diabetic nephropathy, preeclampsia, and kidney transplant. In focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, APOL1 variants are associated with upregulation of RNA encoding chemokine C-X-C motif receptor 3 ligands and ubiquitin D; the significance of these findings remains unclear but may provide valuable insight into disease mechanisms.
Fibrosing/Sclerosing Lesions of the Mediastinum: A Review
Authors: Lindholm Kaleigh E. , de Groot Patricia , Moran Cesar A.
Published: January 2019

Fibrosing lesions of the mediastinum represent a small but challenging group of lesions that range in etiology from infectious to idiopathic to neoplastic. The diagnosis of such lesions becomes more challenging in the setting of mediastinoscopic biopsies. In addition, over the years, there has been further accumulation of knowledge of the clinical aspects of these lesions that needs to be incorporated into their evaluation. Therefore, it is essential that in the general evaluation of these fibrosing processes, one not only carefully examines the histopathologic features of the lesion, that of a fibroinflammatory process with the appropriate histochemical and immunohistochemical studies, but also carefully evaluates the clinical presentation and imaging findings. Needless to say, as will be illustrated in this review, determining a definitive unequivocal diagnosis on a small mediastinoscopic biopsy may be difficult, and often one needs to provide guidance on the perspective of the histologic features present. In some cases, mainly tumoral conditions with extensive fibrosis, a conclusive diagnosis can be made; however, it is those cases in which the extensive fibrosis is the only histopathologic feature where more appropriate guidance is required. While this review will focus more on the non-neoplastic fibroinflammatory lesions of the mediastinum, within the discussion of differential diagnoses, we will discuss some neoplastic conditions that commonly show extensive fibrosing features.
Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia: The Cardiac Arrest Where Epinephrine Is Contraindicated*
Authors: Bellamy David , Nuthall Gabrielle , Dalziel Stuart , Skinner Jonathan R.
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

To raise awareness among pediatric intensive care specialists of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia; an uncommon cause of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation arrest in children and young adults where epinephrine (adrenaline), even when given according to international protocols, can be counter-productive and life-threatening. We review three cases of cardiac arrest in children, later proven to be catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia related, where delay in recognition of this condition resulted in significantly longer resuscitation efforts, more interventions, and a longer time to return of spontaneous circulation.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Tertiary children’s hospital.

Patients and Results:

Three previously well children 4, 5, and 10 years old presented with cardiac arrest triggered by light activity, partial water immersion, and running, respectively. Initial resuscitation was bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and community defibrillation in all three cases. Electrocardiograms revealed multifocal ventricular ectopy, and in two (4 and 10 yr old), this correlated with repeated administration of epinephrine during repeated ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest resuscitation cycles. This ultimately resolved immediately (at 78 and 140 min, respectively) with IV opiates once catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia was suspected. During recovery, on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, epinephrine challenge in two children induced polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, bidirectional ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation, which was cardioverted with flecainide in the 4-year-old. The third case was recognized early as catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and was managed by avoiding epinephrine and using opiates and general anesthesia after the initial (single) cardioversion, and had a much better clinical course, without recourse to extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. All three carried de novo RyR2 (cardiac ryanodine) mutations.

Conclusions:

Those involved in resuscitation of young people should be aware of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and be suspicious of persistent ventricular ectopy, polymorphic, or bidirectional ventricular tachycardia during resuscitation. Appropriate management is avoidance of epinephrine, administration of general anesthesia, IV opiates, and consideration of flecainide.
Extremity Arterial Thromboses in Hospitalized Children: A National Database Analysis of Prevalence and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Totapally Balagangadhar R. , Raszynski Andre , Khan Danyal , Amjad Ibrahim , Biehler Jefry
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence, demographics, predisposing conditions, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes of extremity arterial thrombosis in hospitalized children.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Patients:

National discharge database analysis.

Measurements and Main Results:

Cases of extremity arterial thrombosis in children and neonates were extracted from the Kids’ Inpatient Database 2012. These were analyzed and compared with other discharges for prevalence, demographics, treatments, outcomes, and further analyzed by age group and select predisposing conditions. A total of 961 children with extremity arterial thrombosis (prevalence of 2.35/10,000 discharges) were included in our analysis. The median age of extremity arterial thrombosis patients was significantly lower when compared with other pediatric discharges (1 yr [interquartile range, 0–15 yr) vs 3 yr [interquartile range, 0–16 yr]; p < 0.0001). The proportion of females with extremity arterial thrombosis was lower (41.4% vs 53.3%; odds ratio, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.55–0.70) with no racial/ethnic variation in the prevalence of extremity arterial thrombosis. An upper extremity was involved in 18.1% and a lower extremity in 83.3%. Arterial cannulation and cardiac catheterization were much more common in the younger age groups. External trauma was documented in 13.2% of all patients with extremity arterial thrombosis and was more frequent in older age groups. A systemic thrombolytic medication was administered to 5.7% of the patients, thromboembolectomy was performed in 11.8% of the cases, and 3.1% of the patients required amputation. There was a significant variation in the use of thrombolysis, thrombectomy/embolectomy, or requirement for amputation limb based on age groups and underlying predisposing condition.

Conclusions:

The study describes the national prevalence of extremity arterial thrombosis in hospitalized children. The management strategies of extremity arterial thrombosis vary with age and underlying predisposing factors.
Frequency-Specific Microcurrent for Treatment of Longstanding Congenital Muscular Torticollis
Authors: Thompson Regina , Kaplan Sandra L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

This case describes the first episode of care, using conservative treatment, massage, and frequency-specific microcurrent (FSM), for a 19-month-old boy with grade 8 left congenital muscular torticollis with fibrotic nodules.

Methods:

Ten weeks of physical therapy provided stretching, strengthening, massage, and parent education, adding FSM in weeks 3 to 10 for this patient.

Results:

Full passive cervical rotation and lateral flexion, 4/5 lateral cervical flexion strength, improved head tilt, and inability to palpate fibrotic nodules were achieved by week 8, with partial home program adherence.

Conclusions and Recommendations for Practice:

Excellent outcomes were achieved with conservative care in a patient with poor prognosis and likelihood of surgical referral. Combining stretching, strengthening, massage, postural reeducation, and FSM resulted in full range and good strength in an exceptionally short time. The combination of massage and FSM, not previously reported, are tools that may be effective in congenital muscular torticollis treatment.
Brief Report: Comparing Sexual Risk Behavior in a High-Risk Group of Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women in Lima, Peru
Authors: Long Jessica E. , Montaño Michalina , Cabello Robinson , Sanchez Hugo , Lama Javier R. , Duerr Ann
Published: January 2019

Background:

Transgender women (TW) and men who have sex with men (MSM) are often conflated in HIV research and prevention programs, despite clear differences that exist in culture and behavior.

Methods:

We examined baseline data from a large treatment-as-prevention study among TW and MSM in Lima, Peru, to assess differences in risk behavior. Baseline assessment included HIV testing and a questionnaire including sociodemographics, sexual behavior, social venue attendance, and drug and alcohol use. Poisson regression with robust standard errors was used to calculate prevalence ratios adjusted for confounding variables [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR)] and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) comparing the prevalence of covariates related to HIV risk in MSM and TW.

Results:

Overall, 310 TW and 2807 MSM participated between July 2013 and September 2015 and were included in this analysis. TW engaged in some protective sexual health practices more than MSM, including HIV testing in the last year (aPR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.42 to 1.84) and condom use at the last sexual encounter (aPR = 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06 to 1.36). TW were more likely to have sex while using alcohol (aPR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.01 to 1.31) or drugs (aPR 2.24, 95% CI: 1.47 to 3.41), have alcohol dependency (aPR 1.38, 95% CI: 1.15 to 1.66), engage in receptive anal sex (aPR 1.31, 95% CI: 1.26 to 1.36), and have received money, gifts, or favors in exchange of anal sex (1.96, 95% CI: 1.74 to 2.20).

Conclusions:

TW and MSM exhibited distinct risk profiles, suggesting that interventions specifically targeted to each group may provide new opportunities for more effective HIV prevention programs.
Risk Factors for Low CD4+ Count Recovery Despite Viral Suppression Among Participants Initiating Antiretroviral Treatment With CD4+ Counts > 500 Cells/mm3: Findings From the Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Therapy (START) Trial
Authors: Boatman Jeffrey A. , Baker Jason V. , Emery Sean , Furrer Hansjakob , Mushatt David M. , Sedláček Dalibor , Lundgren Jens D. , Neaton James D. ,   for the INSIGHT START Study Group
Published: January 2019

Background:

Low CD4+ recovery among HIV-positive individuals who achieve virologic suppression is common but has not been studied among individuals initiating treatment at CD4+ counts of >500 cells/mm3.

Setting:

United States, Africa, Asia, Europe and Israel, Australia, Latin America.

Methods:

Among participants randomized to immediate antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Strategic Timing of AntiRetroviral Therapy trial, low CD4+ recovery was defined as a CD4+ increase of <50 cells/mm3 from baseline after 8 months despite viral load of ≤200 copies/mL. Risk factors for low recovery were investigated with logistic regression.

Results:

Low CD4+ recovery was observed in 39.7% of participants. Male sex [odds ratio (OR), 1.53; P = 0.007], lower screening CD4+ cell counts (OR, 1.09 per 100 fewer cells/mm3; P = 0.004), higher baseline CD8+ cell counts (OR, 1.05 per 100 more cells/mm3; P < 0.001), and lower HIV RNA levels (OR, 1.93 per log10 decrease; P < 0.001) were associated with low CD4+ recovery. D-dimer had a quadratic association with low CD4+ recovery, with lowest odds occurring at 0.32 μg/mL. At lower HIV RNA levels, the odds of low CD4+ recovery were elevated across the levels of screening CD4+ count; but at higher HIV RNA levels, the odds of low CD4+ recovery were higher among those with lower vs. higher screening CD4+.

Conclusions:

Low CD4+ recovery is frequent among participants starting ART at high CD4+ counts. Risk factors include male sex, lower screening CD4+ cell counts, higher CD8+ cell counts, and lower HIV RNA levels. More follow-up is required to determine the impact of low CD4+ recovery on clinical outcomes.
What's new in the epidemiology of skin and soft tissue infections in 2018?
Authors: Poulakou Garyphallia , Lagou Styliani , Tsiodras Sotirios
Published: January 2019

Purpose of review

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are among the most common infections in outpatients and the most frequent infectious cause of referrals to emergency departments in developed world, contributing to significant morbidity and healthcare expenditures. We sought to review recent literature covering epidemiology of SSTIs.

Recent findings

Staphylococcus aureus and streptococci predominate and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) poses additional challenges; community-acquired-MRSA in some areas is superseding methicillin-susceptible S. aureus and multidrug resistance is evolving. Incidence data of SSTIs from United States show a decreasing trend, whereas trends of hospitalization rates were increasing. Despite low mortality associated with SSTIs, high rates of treatment failure and relapses are of concern. Diagnosis and management decisions in the emergency department (ED) lack validated tools for prediction of clinical response particularly among elderly, immunocompromised, obese, and patients with comorbidities. A variety of modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors of the host and data from local epidemiology should be considered to prevent recurrence and treatment failure.

An evolving epidemiology of SSTIs make microbiologic documentation and surveillance of local data imperative. New assessment algorithms with potential use in the ED are a priority. The universal applicability of international guidelines is questioned in this setting.
Associations Between Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings and Clincopathologic Factors in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Choi Bo Bae , Kim Sung Hun , Youn InKyung
Published: January 2019

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the magnetic resonance imaging findings associated with clinicopathologic factors in patients with triple-negative breast cancer.

Methods

One hundred one patients with surgically confirmed triple-negative breast cancer who underwent preoperative breast magnetic resonance imaging with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) were included in this study. Presence of rim enhancement on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging and hyperintense rim on DWI were visually assessed. Pathologic data about presence of recurrence and presence of lymphovascular invasion (LVI) were reviewed. Statistics for relative risk of recurrence carried out.

Results

Of the 101, 13 cases (12.9%) were recurred after a median follow-up of 18.5 months. Rim enhancement was more frequently seen in the LVI-positive group (P = 0.046). Hyperintense rim on DWI and apparent diffusion coefficient values showed no significant relationship with clinical-pathologic factors.

Conclusions

Rim enhancement was significantly associated with positive LVI status in patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Our study suggests that rim enhancement may be useful to predict the prognosis.
The Application of Intravoxel Incoherent Motion Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in the Diagnosis of Hilar Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Xu Xin , Zhang Xuening
Published: January 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging in diagnosing hilar obstructive jaundice.

Methods

Fifty-nine patients diagnosed with hilar obstructive jaundice were enrolled in our hospital form January 2017 to January 2018. All the patients received scanning by a 3.0-T nuclear magnetic resonance scanner. The values of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC)slow, ADCfast, and f were obtained and analyzed by 2 experienced radiologists. The differences between patients with hilar biliary obstruction and healthy volunteers in ADCslow, ADCfast, and f values were analyzed. Moreover, the differences between benign and malignant obstructive jaundice in ADCslow, ADCfast, and f values were analyzed. According to the serum levels of total bilirubin, patients were divided into 3 groups: mild, moderate, and severe obstructive jaundice. The differences between the 3 groups in ADCslow, ADCfast, and f values were also analyzed.

Results

The ADCfast values were obviously lower in patients with hilar obstructive jaundice than in healthy controls, whereas no significant difference in the values of ADCslow and f was found between both groups. The optimal cutoff value for ADCfast was 0.0341. The ADCfast values were significantly different between patients with benign and malignant hilar obstructive jaundice. The ADCfast values were negatively associated with the severity of hilar obstructive jaundice.

Conclusions

Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging was a promising method for diagnosing hilar biliary obstruction jaundice.
Highly Accelerated Breath-Hold Noncontrast Electrocardiographically- and Pulse-Gated Balanced Steady-State Free Precession Magnetic Resonance Angiography of the Thoracic Aorta: Comparison With Electrocardiographically-Gated Computed Tomographic Angiography
Authors: Lim Ruth P. , Singh Susan G. , Hornsey Emma , Kearney Leighton , Churilov Leonid , Storey Pippa , Begbie Mark , Shoobridge Jennifer , Xu Jian , Rayner Melanie , Matalanis George , Smith Gerard
Published: January 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate agreement of measured thoracic aortic caliber in patients with aortic disease, using electrocardiographically-(ECG) and pulse-gated breath-hold noncontrast balanced steady-state free precession MRA (ECG-MRA, P-MRA) at 1.5 T, compared with ECG-gated computed tomographic angiography (CTA).

Methods

Thirty-one patients underwent ECG-MRA, P-MRA, and CTA. Two readers independently measured aortic caliber in 7 segments, with agreement between techniques and readers evaluated. Image quality was qualitatively assessed.

Results

There was overall excellent agreement among ECG-MRA, P-MRA, and CTA for measured aortic caliber (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient ≥0.94, all comparisons); however, lower concordance was noted at the annulus (Lin's concordance correlation coefficient <0.6) at segmental assessment. There was excellent interreader agreement for aortic caliber for all 3 techniques (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.94). Image quality was poorer for both MRA techniques compared with CTA, particularly at the aortic root.

Conclusions

Electrocardiographically-gated MRA and P-MRA at 1.5 T achieve comparable thoracic aortic measurements to gated CTA in clinical patients, despite inferior image quality.
Magnetic Resonance–based Assessment of Myocardial 2-Dimensional Strain Using Feature Tracking
Authors: Zitzelsberger Tanja , Scholz Astrid , Hetterich Holger , Lorbeer Roberto , Bamberg Fabian , Auweter Sigrid D. , Heier Margit , Meisinger Christa , Rathmann Wolfgang , Nikolaou Konstantin , Reiser Maximilian F. , Peters Annette , Schlett Christopher L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

Myocardial strain analysis is a promising tool for the detection of subtle but relevant alterations of left ventricular function, also in asymptomatic subjects. Thus, we determined the feasibility of cardiac magnetic resonance–based 2D global strain analysis using feature tracking and its association with cardiovascular risk factors in a sample from the general population.

Materials and Methods:

Subjects without a history of cardiocerebrovascular disease were enrolled in a substudy of the population-based KORA (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg) cohort. In all participants with the absence of late gadolinium enhancement, longitudinal and circumferential global strains were measured on Cine SSFP imaging (TR: 29.97 ms, TE: 1.46 ms, ST: 8 mm), using a semiautomatic segmentation algorithm (CVI42, Circle, Canada). Differences in strain values according to age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia were derived using linear regression analysis.

Results:

Among 360 subjects (mean age, 56.2±9.2 y, 57% male), the average global systolic radial strain was 40.1±8.2%, circumferential 19.9±2.7%, and longitudinal 19.8±3.2%. Male sex was associated with decreased global strain values, independent of the strain direction (all P<0.001). Although many cardiovascular risk factors were correlated with strain in univariate analysis, mainly waist-to-hip ratio and HbA1c remained associated with decreased radial and circumferential strains in fully adjusted models. Similarly, higher radial and circumferential strains were observed in older subjects (β=0.14, P=0.01 and β=0.11, P=0.04, respectively).

Conclusions:

Strain analysis using magnetic resonance feature tracking is feasible in population-based cohort studies and shows differences with respect to age and sex as well as an independent association with markers of metabolic syndrome.
Thoracic Manifestations of Genitourinary Neoplasms and Treatment-related Complications
Authors: Stowell Justin T. , Betancourt-Cuellar Sonia L. , Carter Brett W. , Wu Carol C. , Walker Christopher M.
Published: January 2019

Genitourinary (GU) malignancies are a diverse group of common and uncommon neoplasms that may be associated with significant mortality. Metastases from GU neoplasms are frequently encountered in the chest, and virtually all thoracic structures can be involved. Although the most common imaging manifestations include hematogenous dissemination manifesting with peripheral predominant bilateral pulmonary nodules and lymphatic metastases manifesting with mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy, some GU malignancies exhibit unique features. We review the general patterns, pathways, and thoracic imaging features of renal, adrenal, urothelial, prostatic, and testicular metastatic neoplasms, as well as provide a discussion of treatment-related complications that might manifest in the chest. Detailed reporting of these patterns will allow the imager to assist the referring clinicians and surgeons in accurate determination of the stage, prognosis, and treatment options available for the patient. Awareness of specific treatment-related complications further allows the imager to enhance patient safety through accurate and timely reporting of potentially life-threatening consequences of therapies.
Performance of Deep Learning Model in Detecting Operable Lung Cancer With Chest Radiographs
Authors: Cha Min Jae , Chung Myung Jin , Lee Jeong Hyun , Lee Kyung Soo
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of a trained deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) model for detecting operable lung cancer with chest radiographs (CXRs).

Materials and Methods:

The institutional review board approved this study. A deep learning model (DLM) based on DCNN was trained with 17,211 CXRs (5700 CT-confirmed lung nodules in 3500 CXRs and 13,711 normal CXRs), finally augmented to 600,000 images. For validation, a trained DLM was tested with 1483 CXRs with surgically resected lung cancer, marked and scored by 2 radiologists. Furthermore, diagnostic performances of DLM and 6 human observers were compared with 500 cases (200 visible T1 lung cancer on CXR and 300 normal CXRs) and analyzed using free-response receiver-operating characteristics curve (FROC) analysis.

Results:

The overall detection rate of DLM for resected lung cancers (27.2±14.6 mm) was a sensitivity of 76.8% (1139/1483) with a false positive per image (FPPI) of 0.3 and area under the FROC curve (AUC) of 0.732. In the comparison with human readers, DLM demonstrated a sensitivity of 86.5% at 0.1 FPPI and a sensitivity of 92% at 0.3 FPPI with AUC of 0.899 at an FPPI range of 0.03 to 0.44 for detecting visible T1 lung cancers, which were superior to the average of 6 human readers [mean sensitivity; 78% (range, 71.6% to 82.6%) at an FPPI of 0.1% and 85% (range, 80.2% to 89.2%) at an FPPI of 0.3, AUC of 0.819 (range, 0.754 to 0.862) at an FPPI of 0.03 to 0.44).

Conclusions:

A DLM has high diagnostic performance in detecting operable lung cancer with CXR, demonstrating a potential of playing a pivotal role for lung cancer screening.
Measurement Variability in Treatment Response Determination for Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lee Geewon , Bak So Hyeon , Lee Ho Yun , Choi Joon Young , Park Hyunjin , Lee Seung-Hak , Ohno Yoshiharu , Nishino Mizuki , van Beek Edwin J.R. , Lee Kyung Soo
Published: January 2019

Multimodality imaging measurements of treatment response are critical for clinical practice, oncology trials, and the evaluation of new treatment modalities. The current standard for determining treatment response in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is based on tumor size using the RECIST criteria. Molecular targeted agents and immunotherapies often cause morphological change without reduction of tumor size. Therefore, it is difficult to evaluate therapeutic response by conventional methods. Radiomics is the study of cancer imaging features that are extracted using machine learning and other semantic features. This method can provide comprehensive information on tumor phenotypes and can be used to assess therapeutic response in this new age of immunotherapy. Delta radiomics, which evaluates the longitudinal changes in radiomics features, shows potential in gauging treatment response in NSCLC. It is well known that quantitative measurement methods may be subject to substantial variability due to differences in technical factors and require standardization. In this review, we describe measurement variability in the evaluation of NSCLC and the emerging role of radiomics.
Intravenous Patient-controlled Analgesia Versus Thoracic Epidural Analgesia After Open Liver Surgery
Authors: Hausken John , Fretland Åsmund Avdem , Edwin Bjørn , Andersen Marit Helen , Dagenborg Vegar Johansen , Bjørnelv Gudrun Maria Waaler , Kristiansen Ronny , Røysland Kjetil , Kvarstein Gunnvald , Tønnessen Tor Inge
Published: January 2019

Objective:

We conducted a randomized, controlled, noninferiority trial to investigate if intravenous, multimodal, patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) could be noninferior to multimodal thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) in patients undergoing open liver surgery.

Summary Background Data:

The increasing use of minimally invasive techniques and fast track protocols have questioned the position of epidural analgesia as the optimal method of pain management after abdominal surgery.

Methods:

Patients operated with open liver resection between February 2012 and February 2016 were randomly assigned to receive either IV-PCA enhanced with ketorolac/diclofenac (IV-PCA, n = 66) or TEA (n = 77) within an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol. Noninferiority would be declared if the mean pain score on the numeric rating scale (NRS) for postoperative days (PODs) 0 to 5 in the IV-PCA group was no worse than the mean pain score in the TEA group by a margin of <1 point on an 11-point scale (0–10).

Results:

The primary endpoint, mean NRS pain score was 1.7 in the IV-PCA group and 1.6 in the TEA group, establishing noninferiority. Pain scores were lower in the TEA group on PODs 0 and 1, but higher or equal on PODs 2 and 5. Postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter for patients in the IV-PCA group (74 vs 104 h, P < 0.001). The total opioid consumption during the first 3 days was significantly lower in the IV-PCA group.

Conclusions:

IV-PCA was noninferior to TEA for the treatment of postoperative pain in patients undergoing open liver resection.