bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scheimpflug Image-Based Changes in Anterior Segment Parameters during Accommodation Induced by Short-Term Reading
Authors: Lipecz Agnes , Tsorbatzoglou Alexis , Hassan Ziad , Berta Andras , Modis Laszlo , Nemeth Gabor
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To analyze the effect of the accommodation on the anterior segment data (corneal and anterior chamber parameters) induced by short-time reading in a healthy, nonpresbyopic adult patient group.

Methods

Images of both eyes of nonpresbyopic volunteers were captured with a Scheimpflug device (Pentacam HR) in a nonaccommodative state. Fifteen minutes of reading followed and through fixation of the built-in target of Pentacam HR further accommodation was achieved and new images were captured by the device. Anterior segment parameters were observed and the differences were analyzed.

Results

Fifty-two healthy eyes of 26 subjects (range 20.04-28.58 years) were analyzed. No significant differences were observed in the keratometric values before and after the accommodative task (p = 0.35). A statistically significant difference was measured in the 5.0-mm-diameter and the 7.0-mm-diameter corneal volume (p = 0.01 and p = 0.03) between accommodation states. Corneal aberrometric data did not change significantly during short-term accommodation. Significant differences were observed between nonaccommodative and accommodative states of the eyes for all measured anterior chamber parameters.

Conclusions

Among the parameters of the cornea, only corneal volume changed during the short-term accommodation process, showing some fine changes with accommodation of the cornea in young, emmetropic patients. The position of the pupil and the anterior chamber parameters were observed to change with accommodation as captured by a Scheimpflug device.
Safety and Efficacy of Collagen Matrix Implantation in Infantile Glaucoma
Authors: Elhefney Eman M. , Al-Sharkawy Hossam T. , Kishk Hanem M. , Abouelkheir Hossam
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the preliminary results of biodegradable collagen matrix implant (Ologen) designed to improve outcome in patients with infantile glaucoma undergoing combined trabeculotomy and trabeculectomy.

Methods

A biodegradable collagen matrix (OculusGen) was placed in the subconjunctival space, partially over the scleral flap and the sclera in 20 eyes of 11 patients with infantile glaucoma who underwent combined trabeculotomy and trabeculectomy. Patients were examined preoperatively and on the first postoperative day with multiple postoperative follow-up visits within 12 months after surgery. Examination included measurements of intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal diameter, and axial length, bleb evaluation, and funduscopy. Ultrasound biomicroscopy of bleb (bleb presence, wall reflectivity, and scleral route visibility) was done at 1, 3, and 6 months and the last follow-up visit. Any complication was recorded. Data analysis was performed using paired-samples t test.

Results

Mean patient age was 5.7 ± 5.69 months. Mean duration of follow-up was 10.05 ± 1.15 months. Mean preoperative IOP was 25.9 ± 3.08 mm Hg with 1.75 ± 0.55 IOP-lowering medications and mean final postoperative IOP was 17.7 ± 3.51 mm Hg with 0.55 ± 0.69 IOP-lowering medications. Overall success at last follow-up was 80%. None of the patients experienced systemic or ocular complication related to OculusGen. By the 6th month, complete Ologen degradation was evident in all cases.

Conclusions

The short-term preliminary results of this study indicate that the combined trabeculotomy and trabeculectomy with Ologen implantation could potentially provide a safe and effective procedure in the infantile age group but longer duration of follow-up in larger number of patients is needed.
Relationship between Intraocular Pressure and Anterior Lamina Cribrosa Depth: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study in a Healthy Portuguese Population
Authors: Sousa David Cordeiro , Leal Inês , Marques-Neves Carlos , Pinto Filomena , Abegão Pinto Luís
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To investigate the association between anterior lamina cribrosa depth (ALCD), determined with enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) in a healthy Portuguese population.

Methods

In this cross-sectional observational study conducted between January and July 2015, 2 optic nerve head (ONH)–centered EDI-OCT cross-scans were performed and ALCD was defined as the perpendicular distance between the line connecting both edges of Bruch's membrane opening and the anterior border of the lamina cribrosa at the maximum depth point. A multivariate regression model was performed to assess the association of IOP and ALCD.

Results

The studied population included 59 subjects (35 women) with a mean age of 61.7 ± 15.1 years. Mean vertical and horizontal maximum ALCD was 444.5 ± 92.2 μm and 427.6 ± 82.7 μm, respectively. When controlling for age and spherical equivalent, maximum vertical and horizontal ALCD were positively correlated with intraocular pressure (R2>0.20) by 8.58 μm (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.80-14.36 μm; p<0.01) and 8.25 μm (95% CI 2.71-13.78 μm; p<0.01) per mm Hg of IOP, respectively.

Conclusions

Our sample of healthy subjects presented a statistically significant positive correlation between IOP and ALCD when controlling for possible confounding factors. These results may trigger further studies to better elucidate the role of IOP in the morphologic and functional dynamics of the ONH.
Surgical Repair of Large Cyclodialysis Clefts
Authors: Gross Jacob B. , Davis Garvin H. , Bell Nicholas P. , Feldman Robert M. , Blieden Lauren S.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To describe a new surgical technique to effectively close large (>180 degrees) cyclodialysis clefts.

Methods

Our method involves the use of procedures commonly associated with repair of retinal detachment and complex cataract extraction: phacoemulsification with placement of a capsular tension ring followed by pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade with light cryotherapy. We also used anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) as a noninvasive mechanism to determine the extent of the clefts and compared those results with ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and gonioscopy.

Results

This technique was used to repair large cyclodialysis clefts in 4 eyes. All 4 eyes had resolution of hypotony and improvement of visual acuity. One patient had an intraocular pressure spike requiring further surgical intervention. Anterior segment OCT imaging in all 4 patients showed a more extensive cleft than UBM or gonioscopy.

Conclusions

This technique is effective in repairing large cyclodialysis clefts. Anterior segment OCT more accurately predicted the extent of each cleft, while UBM and gonioscopy both underestimated the size of the cleft.
Major Acetabular Defects Treated with the Burch-Schneider Antiprotrusion Cage and Impaction Bone Allograft in a Large Series: A 5- to 7- Year Follow-up Study
Authors: Marx Axel , Beier Alexander , Richter Anne , Lohmann Christoph H. , Halder Andreas M.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Major bone defects are the greatest challenge in hip revision arthroplasty.

Methods

In a prospective, consecutive nonrandomised study we followed up 74 patients with Type III (AAOS) acetabular bone defects who underwent revision hip arthroplasty with bone grafting and implantation of a Burch-Schneider anti-protrusion cage (APC). The patients were examined pre- and postoperatively according to a standardised clinical and radiological protocol. No patient was lost to follow-up.

Results

9 patients died before follow-up. In 9 other patients the APC was revised within the follow-up period. In 4 of these patients the revision was necessary because of aseptic loosening. In the remaining 5 cases joint infection, recurrent dislocation and 1 trauma were the reasons for revision. 56 patients were included in the statistical analysis. In the follow-up group the mean Harris Hip Score increased from 39.9 preoperatively to 73.2. 85% of the patients assessed their operation result as good or excellent.

Conclusions

In a large consecutive series the Burch-Schneider anti-protrusion cage proved to be a valuable option in the treatment of major acetabular bone defects in hip revision surgery.
An Unusual Cause of Neonatal HIP Dislocation: Infantile Myofibromatosis Presenting as Developmental Dysplasia of the HIP
Authors: Woo Timothy , Win Thuzar
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Infantile myofibromatosis (IM) is a rare paediatric fibrous tumour also known as a desmoid tumour that occurs in around 1:150000 live births. It manifests as solitary or multicentric fibrous masses in the musculoaponeurotic soft tissues and can affect the visceral organs and bones.

Case discussion

We report a case of infantile myofibromatosis of the gluteus maximus muscle in an 18-day old neonate presenting atypically as a case of developmental dysplasia of the hip due to local involvement of the sciatic nerve. However, failure of improvement with conventional management and clinical wasting of the lower leg muscles was indicative of a secondary cause of the patient's hip dislocation, which was confirmed on imaging and surgical biopsy.

Discussion

This case report aims to emphasise the importance of considering secondary causes of neonatal hip dislocation, especially in cases where imaging findings are atypical of conventional DDH. Although imaging appearances on ultrasound and CT may vary, the signal characteristics and enhancement pattern of soft tissue myofibromata on MRI with and without gadolinium contrast appear to be the most consistent finding in these cases.
Poly (L-Lactic Acid) Porous Scaffold-Supported Alginate Hydrogel with Improved Mechanical Properties and Biocompatibility
Authors: Chu Jiaqi , Zeng Shaodong , Gao Liyang , Groth Thomas , Li Zhiwen , Kong Junchao , Zhao Mingyan , Li Lihua
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Polymer porous scaffolds and hydrogels have been separately employed and explored for a wide range of applications including cell encapsulation, drug delivery, and tissue engineering.

Methods

In this study, a three-dimensional poly (L-lactic acid) (PLLA) scaffold with interconnected and homogeneously distributed pores was fabricated to support the alginate hydrogel (Alg). The gels were filled into the porous scaffold, which acted as an analogue of native extracellular matrix (ECM) for entrapment of cells within a support of predefined shape. The mechanical strength of the composite scaffold was characterized by compression testing. The chondrocyte behavior in the scaffold was determined by inverted microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and MTT viability assay. The repair efficiency of such a composite scaffold was further investigated in dog spinal defects by histological evaluation after implantation for 4 weeks.

Results

Results showed that the composite scaffold possessed superior mechanical properties and hierarchical porous structure in comparison to pure Alg. Cell culture revealed that the cells presented a specific cartilage status in the composite scaffold in line with higher adherence and proliferation ratio. The histological analyses suggested that the composite scaffold substantially promotes its integration in the host tissue accompanied with a low inflammatory reaction and new tissue formation.

Conclusions

The method thus provides a useful pathway for scaffold preparation that can simultaneously achieve suitable mechanical properties and good biocompatibility.
Shear Bond Strengths of Brackets Bonded with a New Self-Adhering Resin Composite
Authors: Gungor Ahmet Yalcin , Alkis Huseyin , Turkkahraman Hakan
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To determine the shear bond strength (SBS) of orthodontic brackets bonded with a self-adhering resin composite.

Methods

45 freshly extracted mandibular incisors were randomly divided into 3 groups (n = 15 per group). Brackets were bonded with 3 bonding systems and cured with an LED light. Brackets were bonded with a new self-adhering resin cement in the study group. A conventional etch-and-rinse adhesive system and a self-etching adhesive system were used for comparison. After bonding, the SBS of the brackets were tested with a universal testing machine.

Results

Analysis of variance indicated a significant difference between groups (p<0.001). The highest values for SBS were measured in group I (21.80 ± 2.57 MPa). The SBS was significantly lower in groups II and III than in group I (P<.001). The lowest values for SBS were measured in group III (5.90 ± 0.90 MPa). SBS was significantly higher in group II than in group III (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The self-adhering adhesive system showed a clinically insufficient SBS, whereas the SBS of conventional etch-and-rinse adhesive system and the self-etching adhesive system were significantly higher and clinically sufficient.
Optimisation of the Sputnik-VAD Design
Authors: Selishchev Sergey V. , Telyshev Dmitry V.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Miniaturisation of VADs can offer important benefits, including less invasive implantation techniques and more versatility in patient selection. The aim of this work was to reduce the weight, size, and energy consumption of the Sputnik VAD.

Methods

The second generation of the Sputnik VAD was developed with a set of changes in construction. The head pressure-flow rate (H-Q) and power consumption-flow rate curves for the Sputnik VADs were measured at different rotational speeds. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) were used for operating condition simulation and the LVADs were compared under the simulated physiological conditions.

Results

The slope of the H-Q curves for the Sputnik 1 VAD remains almost invariable over the entire range of the measured flow rate, in contrast to the curves for the Sputnik 2 VAD, which become flat in the high flow-rate region. Despite the design modification, the operating rotor speed remained invariable. The preload sensitivity of the Sputnik VAD is higher than that of the other rotary blood pumps and amounts to 0.111 ± 0.0092 L min−1 mmHg−1. The power consumption for the Sputnik 2 VAD is lower over the entire speed range, except for at 5,000 rpm.

Conclusions

The pump weight was reduced from 246 to 205 g, the pump length was decreased from 82 to 66 mm, and the pump diameter was decreased from 32 to 29 mm. The total energy consumption of the pump was reduced by 15%.
Measuring the Remineralization Potential of Different Agents with Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence Digital Biluminator
Authors: Kucukyilmaz Ebru , Savas Selcuk
Published: September 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of different remineralization agents by quantitative light-induced fluorescence digital Biluminator™ (QLF-D).

Methods

Artificial caries lesions were created, and the teeth were divided according to the tested materials: (i) distilled water, (ii) acidulated phosphate fluoride (APF), (iii) Curodont Repair (CR), (iv) ammonium hexafluorosilicate (SiF) and (v) ammonium hexafluorosilicate plus cetylpyridinium chloride (SiF + CPC). After treatment procedures, each of the samples was placed in artificial saliva. After demineralization and 1 and 4 weeks of remineralization procedures, fluorescence loss and lesion areas were measured with QLF-D. Data were statistically analyzed (α = 0.05).

Results

The fluorescence values of the demineralized enamel specimens treated with the various agents differed significantly compared with pretreatment values for both 1 and 4 weeks (p<0.05). At 4 weeks, the highest fluorescence gain was calculated in the CR, APF and SiF groups compared with the control (p<0.05).

Conclusions

APF, SiF and CR groups yielded greater remineralization ability than SiF + CPC and control groups.
Is Micro-Computed Tomography Useful for Wear Assessment of Ceramic Femoral Heads? A Preliminary Evaluation of Volume Measurements
Authors: Parrilli Annapaola , Falcioni Stefano , Fini Milena , Affatato Saverio
Published: September 2016

Background

Wear associated with hip components represents the main clinical problem in these patients, and it is important to develop new techniques for more accurate measurements of that wear. Currently, the gravimetric method is the gold standard for assessing mass measurements in preclinical evaluations. However, this method does not give other information such as volumetric loss or surface deviation. This work aimed to develop and validate a new technique to quantify ceramic volume loss from in vitro experiments using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT).

Methods

An alumina (BIOLOX® forte) femoral head (Ø = 28 mm) was used. Mass and volume loss were approached by gravimetric method (using a four decimal place digital microbalance) and by using Skyscan 1176 microtomographic system, respectively.

Results

Standard error and coefficient of variance of both gravimetric and experimental groups demonstrated the reliability of the micro-CT analysis technique.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the findings of the present study suggest that this new protocol could be considered an important tool for wear assessment and that we have found a reliable metrological protocol for volumetric analysis of ceramic femoral head prostheses, demonstrating that the micro-CT technique can be an important tool for wear assessment.
Effect of Graphene Oxide on Bacteria and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Campos-Delgado Jessica , Castro Kelly L.S. , Munguia-Lopez Jose G. , González Ana K. , Mendoza Martin E. , Fragneaud Benjamin , Verdan Raphael , Araujo Joyce R. , González Francisco J. , Navarro-Contreras Hugo , Pérez-Maldonado Ivan N. , de León-Rodríguez Antonio , Achete Carlos A.
Published: September 2016

Background

Driven by the potential biological applications of graphene, many groups have studied the response of cells exposed to graphene oxide (GO). In particular, investigations of bacteria indicate that there are 2 crucial parameters, which so far have only been investigated separately: GO size and exposure methodology. Our study took into account both parameters. We carefully characterized the samples to catalog sizes and structural properties, and tested different exposure methodologies: exposure in saline solution and in the presence of growth media. Furthermore, we performed experiments with peripheral blood mononuclear cells exposed to our GO materials.

Methods

Atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize the morphology and composition of different samples of GO: GO-H2O, GO-PBS and GO-MG. Our samples had 2D sizes of ∼100 nm (GO-H2O and GO-PBS) and >2 µm (GO-MG). We tested antibacterial activity and cytotoxicity toward peripheral blood mononuclear cells of 3 different GO samples.

Results

A size-dependent growth inhibition of Escherichia coli (DH5 α) in suspension was found, which proved that this effect depends strongly on the protocol followed for exposure. Hemocompatibility was confirmed by exposing peripheral blood mononuclear cells to materials for 24 hours; viability and apoptosis tests were also carried out.

Conclusions

Our experiments provide vital information for future applications of GO in suspension. If its antibacterial properties are to be potentiated, care should be taken to select 2D sizes in the micrometer range, and exposure should not be carried out in the presence of grow media.
Assessment of the Association between ZBTB20 rs9841504 Polymorphism and Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Susceptibility: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Jizhou , Li Wanzhen , Ding Xiping
Published: September 2016

Background

The protein encoded by ZBTB20 is a member of the POK family, whose members function as transcriptional repressors through interactions mediated by their conserved C2H2 Krüppel-type zinc finger and BTB/POZ domains. Polymorphisms in ZBTB20 appeared to be associated with gastric and esophageal cancer susceptibility in biological models, but the results of these studies were inconclusive. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis by pooling all available data to assess the exact association between the ZBTB20 rs9841504 polymorphism and gastric and esophageal cancer susceptibility.

Method

The meta-analysis was performed for homozygote comparison, heterozygote comparison, and dominant and recessive models by applying a fixed- or random-effects model. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with the corresponding confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Moreover, the data were analyzed using the Stata 12.0 software(StataCorp).

Result

A total of 8 independent case-control studies comprising 9,994 cases and 10,258 controls were included. We found a significant association between the rs9841504 polymorphism and decreased gastric cancer susceptibility in the allelic, homozygous, dominant and recessive models (B vs. A:OR = 0.797, 95% CI 0.644-0.986, p = 0.036; BB vs. AA:OR = 0.601, 95% CI 0.366-0.988, p = 0.045; BA + BB vs. AA:OR = 0.789, 95% CI 0.627-0.992, p = 0.043; BB vs. BA + AA:OR = 0.635, 95% CI 0.405-0.997, p = 0.049). Conversely, no association between the rs9841504 polymorphism and esophageal cancer susceptibility was found. In subgroup analysis by ethnicity, we observed a significantly decreased susceptibility to gastric cancer in Asian populations in the allele contrast, homozygous and recessive models (B vs. A:OR = 0.791, 95% CI 0.628-0.996, p = 0.046; BB vs. AA:OR = 0.559, 95% CI 0.323-0.966, p = 0.037; BB vs. BA + AA:OR = 0.593, 95% CI 0.361-0.972, p = 0.038).

Conclusions

In summary, our work suggests that the ZBTB20 rs9841504 polymorphism is a protective factor for gastric cancer rather than esophageal cancer.
Surveillance for Hemodialysis Access Stenosis: Usefulness of Ultrasound Vector Volume Flow
Authors: Brandt Andreas H. , Jensen Jonas , Hansen Kristoffer L. , Hansen Peter , Lange Theis , Rix Marianne , Jensen Jørgen A. , Lönn Lars , Nielsen Michael B.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

To investigate if ultrasound vector-flow imaging (VFI) is equal to the reference method ultrasound dilution technique (UDT) in estimating volume flow and changes over time in arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) for hemodialysis.

Materials and methods

From January 2014 to January 2015, patients with end-stage renal disease and matured functional AVFs were consecutively solicited to participate in this prospective study. All patients were included after written informed consent and approval by the National Committee on Biomedical Research Ethics and the local Ethics Committee (journal no. H-4-2014-FSP). VFI and UDT measurements were performed monthly over a six-month period. Nineteen patients were included in the study. VFI measurements were performed before dialysis, and UDT measurements after. Statistical analyses were performed with Bland-Altman plot, Student's t-test, four-quadrant plot, and regression analysis. Repeated measurements and precision analysis were used for reproducibility determination.

Results

Precision measurements for UDT and VFI were 32% and 20%, respectively (p = 0.33). Average volume flow measured with UDT and VFI were 1161 mL/min (±778 mL/min) and 1213 mL/min (±980 mL/(min), respectively (p = 0.3). The mean difference was -51 mL/min (CI: -150 mL/min to 46 mL/min) with limits of agreement from -35% to 54%, with a strong correlation (r2 = 0.87). A large change in volume flow between dialysis sessions detected by UDT was confirmed by VFI (p = 0.0001), but the concordance rate was poor (0.72).

Conclusions

VFI is an acceptable method for volume flow estimation and volume flow changes over time in AVFs.
Impact of the Shape of the Needle Tip on the Efficacy of Flushing Implantable Port Chambers
Authors: Guiffant Gérard , Dupont Christian , Merckx Jacques
Published: September 2016

Introduction

To follow international guidelines and protect healthcare workers from needle stick injuries, manufacturers now provide safety non-coring needles.

Methods

Numerical simulations show the potential efficacy of infusion and flushing flow in straight and curved side wall port chambers from a beveled non-coring needle (BNCN) or a bevel-free cannula (BFC).

Results

In straight and curved side wall port chambers, the stream of flow with a BNCN is determined by the direction of the bevel, whereas the outlet stream from a BFC leads to a cylindrical symmetric flow. This, along with the position of the BFC impacts the wall shear rate of the port chamber, and the hydraulic resistance within the chamber.

Discussion

This last factor has never been the subject of extensive hydrodynamic study. Caregiver safety and patient comfort are paramount but physics show that the shape of the needle tip affects the hydrodynamics of the injected flow.

Conclusions

The presence of a bevel at the needle tip is a key factor for ensuring efficient flushing of the port. The absence of a bevel may increase hydraulic resistance and deposits in the port chamber. Implantable port flushing protocols must take this notion into account if the patency of port chambers is to be maintained. The clinical impact of this study has yet to be determined.
Pediatric Patients Undergoing Arteriovenous Fistula Surgery without Intraoperative Heparin
Authors: Regus Susanne , Almási-Sperling Veronika , Lang Werner
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) creation in children could be extremely challenging for vascular surgeons due to small vessels with a high tendency of vasospasm. This could be one reason for primary failures (PF) and early access thrombosis. There exists no guideline for the need of intraoperative heparin administration during hemodialysis fistula creation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of intra-operative heparin administration on immediate outcome.

Methods

Medical records of 42 pediatric patients aged between 7 and 17 years were retrospectively reviewed. All received an AVF under inpatient conditions by exclusively one vascular surgeon with many years of professional experience. The intraoperative anticoagulation standards changed by the years 2001 based on the decision of the vascular surgeon. Therefore, we build two groups (group 1: 14 patients with 5000 IU of intravenous heparin during surgery and group 2: 28 patients without heparin). Major complications included hematoma or bleeding leading to surgery. PF was defined as the inability to use the AVF even once due to absent maturation or occlusion within 4 weeks after creation.

Results

We found 6 (14%) PF with the need of immediate surgical access revision (three from group 1 and three from group 2; p = 0.350). There were no bleedings leading to surgery in all cases, but 5 (12%) hematomas without the need of surgical revision (three from group 1 and two from group 2; p = 0.736).

Conclusions

We found no benefit of heparin administration during clamping the arteries while performing the arteriovenous fistula in pediatric patients.
Arterial Stiffness and Arteriovenous Fistula Failure of Maturation
Authors: Masengu Agnes , Hanko Jennifer B. , Maxwell Alexander P.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Increased arterial stiffness is a common finding in patients with end-stage renal disease. Following creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF), appropriate dilation of the feeding artery must occur to facilitate AVF maturation. Arterial stiffness may impair the arterial dilation required to facilitate AVF development and contribute to subsequent failure to mature (FTM). The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the association between measurements of central and peripheral arterial stiffness, and AVF FTM.

Methods

Patients undergoing AVF creation in a single centre (Belfast City Hospital, UK) between January and December 2015 were invited to have their carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), brachial-radial PWV and augmentation index (AI) measured prior to AVF creation. Subsequent AVF outcomes were identified.

Results

Fifty-nine patients who had an AVF procedure were included in the final analysis (mean age 62 years); 50.8% had diabetes mellitus. The mean pre-operative arterial diameter for all AVFs was 3.9 mm. Average values for carotid-femoral PWV were 9.5 m/s, brachial-radial PWV 7.7 m/s and AI 25.6%. Using logistic regression, these arterial stiffness parameters did not predict AVF FTM: carotid-femoral PWV (P = 0.20), brachial-radial PWV (P = 0.13), AI (P = 0.50).

Conclusions

This is the largest study to date exploring the association between arterial stiffness and AVF FTM. The measured central and peripheral arterial stiffness parameters were not associated with AVF FTM. Further research is needed to define if non-invasive arterial physiological measurements would be clinically useful in the prediction of AVF FTM.
Intradialytic Ultrafiltration Volume and Vascular Access Outcomes: A Japan Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study Subanalysis
Authors: Asano Manabu , Oguchi Kenichi , Saito Akira , Onishi Yoshihiro , Yamamoto Yosuke , Fukuhara Shunichi , Akiba Takashi , Akizawa Tadao
Published: September 2016

Introduction

The relationship between intradialytic ultrafiltration volume and vascular access (VA) patency remains unclear. Using data from the Japan Dialysis Outcomes and Practice Patterns Study, we analyzed whether large-volume ultrafiltration was associated with VA failure in hemodialysis patients.

Methods

We included 2736 patients for whom it was possible to evaluate VA patency and bodyweight change during dialysis. Patients were divided into three groups according to the tertile of intradialytic ultrafiltration by bodyweight: low, -9.5%-3.8%; middle, 3.8%-5.1%; and high, 5.1%-13.7%. Primary VA patency was defined as the time to first VA intervention, and secondary patency as the time to creation of a new VA. Hazard ratios for VA failure were compared across groups by using Cox regression models adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, diabetes, hemoglobin and phosphorus levels, Kt/V, and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent and antiplatelet use.

Results

For the low, middle, and high groups, the incidences of primary and secondary VA patency were 4.7, 5.6, and 6.7 events/100 person-years and 1.3, 1.6, and 1.7 events/100 person-years, respectively. Adjusted hazard ratios for primary VA patency in the middle and high groups versus the low group were 1.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.88-1.52) and 1.41 (95% CI, 1.07-1.87), respectively; those for secondary VA patency were 1.29 (95% CI, 0.78-2.13) and 1.45 (95% CI, 0.86-2.45), respectively.

Discussion

Large-volume ultrafiltration during dialysis tended to increase VA failure in hemodialysis patients. We thus recommend smaller ultrafiltration volumes during hemodialysis to secure VA safely.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Lee Seokwon , Jung Younglae , Bae Youngtae , Yun Sung Pil , Kim Suk , Jo Hongjae , Seo Hyung-Il
Published: September 2016

Aims and background

We aimed to evaluate the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in breast cancer patients using liver magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to investigate factors associated with NAFLD.

Methods

We evaluated 104 patients surgically treated for breast cancer at our hospital between September and November 2013. None of the patients had any other causes of secondary hepatic fat accumulation (such as signiﬁcant alcohol consumption, use of steatogenic medication or inborn disorders). Hepatic fat accumulation was measured using liver MRI perfomed in all patients before surgical treatment.

Results

Based on the fat signal percentage from liver MRIs, 19 of 104 breast cancer patients were diagnosed with NAFLD, so the prevalence of NAFLD was 18.3%. In univariate analysis, factors associated with NAFLD were older age, high body mass index, type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, elevated aspartate aminotransferase, elevated alanine aminotransferase and elevated triglycerides (TG). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with NAFLD were high body mass index (BMI) (odds ratio [OR] 1.403; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.111-1.771; p = 0.005), type 2 DM (OR 11.872; 95% CI 1.065-132.373; p = 0.044), and an elevated TG level (OR 50.267; 95% CI 4.409-573.030; p = 0.002).

Conclusions

The prevalence of NAFLD in breast cancer patients was not different from that of the general population. High BMI, type 2 DM and an elevated serum TG level were factors associated with NAFLD.
Estimating Long-Term Crude Probability of Death among Young Breast Cancer Patients: A Bayesian Approach
Authors: Clèries Ramon , Buxó Maria , Yasui Yutaka , Marcos-Gragera Rafael , Martinez José M. , Ameijide Alberto , Galceran Jaume , Borràs Josep M. , Izquierdo Àngel
Published: September 2016

Aims and Background

Bayesian survival analysis was applied to assess the long-term survival and probability of death due to breast cancer (BC) in Girona, the Spanish region with the highest BC incidence.

Methods

A Bayesian autoregressive model was implemented to compare survival indicators between the periods 1985–1994 and 1995–2004. We assessed the long-term excess hazard of death, relative survival (RS), and crude probability of death due to BC (PBC) up to 20 years after BC diagnosis, reporting the 95% credible intervals (CI) of these indicators.

Results

Patients diagnosed from 1995 onwards showed lower 20-year excess hazards of death than those diagnosed earlier (RS during 1985–1994: local stage: 76.6%; regional stage: 44.9%; RS during 1995–2004: local stage: 85.2%; regional stage: 57.0%). The PBC after 20 years of BC diagnosis for patients diagnosed in 1995 and after might reach 14.4% (95% CI: 8.9%–21.2%) in local stage and 41.0% (95% CI: 36.1%–47.1%) in regional stage.

Conclusions

The method presented could be useful when dealing with population-based survival data from a small region. Better survival prospects were found in patients diagnosed after 1994, although we detected a non-decreasing long-term excess hazard of death, suggesting that these patients have higher mortality than the general population even 10 years after the diagnosis of BC.
Sporadic Desmoid Tumors of the Abdominal Wall: The Results of Surgery
Authors: Mussi Chiara E. , Colombo Piergiuseppe , Russo Chiara Lo , Kasangian Anaid , Cananzi Ferdinando , Marrari Andrea , Morenghi Emanuela , De Sanctis Rita , Quagliuolo Vittorio
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Before the wait-and-see policy became the standard approach in abdominal wall desmoid tumors, surgery was performed on a systematic basis. Surgery remains indicated for progressing tumors but its extent is debatable. The abdominal wall is a common site of origin of sporadic desmoids, usually associated with a favorable prognosis. We analyzed the results of surgery at this specific site.

Methods

Data from 33 patients affected by sporadic desmoid tumors of the abdominal wall (31 primary, 2 recurrent) consecutively treated at our cancer center between January 2000 and September 2013 were retrospectively studied.

Results

Twenty-nine patients underwent surgery upfront and 1 after progression during the initial wait-and-see period. Prosthetic reconstruction of the abdominal wall was required in 28 patients. The average hospital stay was 5 days. Three patients developed surgical complications. Local recurrence-free survival was 90% at 5 and 10 years. Three patients had an uneventful childbirth during the follow-up after surgery.

Conclusions

Desmoid tumors of the abdominal wall have a favorable prognosis after surgical resection, which remains a safe and effective treatment. Wild-type tumors are common, whereas the incidence of S45F mutation in the beta-catenin gene is lower than in other anatomic sites. Upfront surgery may be considered in selected women who wish to bear a child.
Bevacizumab as First-Line Treatment in HER2-Negative Advanced Breast Cancer: Pros and Cons
Authors: Sini Valentina , Cassano Alessandra , Corsi Domenico , De Laurentiis Michele , Gamucci Teresa , Mauri Mariella , Naso Giuseppe , Roselli Mario , Maria Ruggeri Enzo , Tonini Giuseppe , Vici Patrizia , Zampa Germano , Marchetti Paolo
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Bevacizumab, a humanized, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor-A monoclonal antibody, has shown efficacy in a number of cancers. However, its use in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) remains controversial.

Methods

A literature review using the PubMed database was performed to update the currently available clinical trials evidence on bevacizumab in the first-line treatment of breast cancer. In addition, the proceedings of selected oncology annual meetings were searched for relevant presentations.

Results

This article reviews the available evidence for bevacizumab as first-line therapy for MBC and discusses its current and future applicability in the management of MBC. Three phase III trials (ECOG-2100, AVADO, RIBBON-1) demonstrated that the addition of bevacizumab to chemotherapy is well-tolerated and improves progression-free survival and objective response rates in the first-line setting. These findings were supported by a large clinical practice-based study (ATHENA) and a recent clinical trial in which bevacizumab added to paclitaxel showed notable activity in triple-negative MBC. However, bevacizumab has thus far not demonstrated a significant benefit in overall survival.

Conclusions

The addition of bevacizumab to chemotherapy is well-tolerated and produces substantial improvements in overall response rate and progression-free survival, compared with chemotherapy alone, in advanced HER2-negative breast cancer. Nevertheless, it has thus far not demonstrated a significant benefit in overall survival. Whether prolongation of progression-free survival is enough to consider bevacizumab efficacious is unclear. Based on the available clinical trials results, bevacizumab is a part of the complex therapeutic strategy of advanced HER2-negative breast cancer.
Distal Corporoplasty for Distal Cylinders Extrusion after Penile Prosthesis Implantation
Authors: Carrino Maurizio , Chiancone Francesco , Battaglia Gaetano , Pucci Luigi , Fedelini Paolo
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Distal extrusion of cylinders is a potential complication of the penile prosthesis implantation. Several methods have been proposed for repairing a distal penile erosion. We present our preliminary experience in “Distal corporoplasty” technique.

Methods

We enrolled 18 consecutive patients whose underwent a distal corporoplasty with simultaneous reimplantation of an “AMS 700 inflatable penile prosthesis (LGX)” from January 2013 to November 2015 at our hospital. All procedures were performed by a single surgical team. Intraoperative and postoperative complications have been classified and reported according to Satava6 and Clavien-Dindo (CD) system.7 Mean values with standard deviations (±SD) were computed and reported for all items.

Results

Mean age of the patients was 53.61 (±11.90) years. Mean body max index (BMI) was 24.22 (±2.51). Mean operative time was 85.2 (±13.1) minutes. Blood losses were minimal. No intraoperative complications are reported according to Satava classification. Four out of 18 patients (22.22%) experienced postoperative complications according to CD system. All patients had sexual intercourse for the first time postsurgery after a mean of 59.11 ± 2.08 days. Mean follow-up was 22.11 (±9.95).

Discussions

Distal extrusion of cylinders is a potential complication of the penile prosthesis implantation. Distal corporoplasty was first described by Mulcahy. He reported a series of 14 patients with a follow-up of about 2 years with optimal functional outcomes. Moreover, distal corporoplasty resulted in shorter operative time, better function, less pain, and fewer recurrences than Gortex windsock repair.10 In our experience, distal corporoplasty is a simple and safe procedure in the treatment of distal cylinders extrusion when the prosthetic material is not exposed to the exterior.
Italian-Validated Questionnaires for Pelvic Floor Disorders: On Behalf of the Italian Society of Urodynamics
Authors: Braga Andrea , Soligo Marco , Serati Maurizio , Palleschi Giovanni , Li Marzi Vincenzo , Finazzi Agrò Enrico ,   Italian Society of Urodynamics Questionnaires Working Group
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), which include urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction and gastrointestinal disorders, affect over 20% of adult population. The prevalence and demand for care of PFDs appear to be increasing more quickly than would be expected from simple population growth, creating substantial physical and emotional distress and a large financial burden. Suitable diagnostic tools are necessary to investigate these problems. The aim of this article is to list Symptom and Quality of Life questionnaires [briefly identified as patient-reported outcomes (PROs)] formally validated into the Italian language to provide Italian clinicians and researchers a tool for the assessment of pelvic area dysfunctions in our country. A synthetic key points summary concerning concepts behind Symptom and Quality of Life Questionnaires will be also provided.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE databases and websites were used to identify Italian-validated questionnaires for PFDs. Once identified, the possibility to get a copy of the questionnaire was verified and steps to obtain it are reported in the table.

Results

Questionnaires validated into the Italian language, for diagnosis and overall management of common urinary, vaginal, sexual and bowel conditions, are listed in the table.

Conclusions

This format is intended to serve as a tool to promote appropriateness in PROs adoption while investigating PFDs in Italian patients.
Network Theory-Based Analysis of Construction Project Risks
Authors: Lmoussaoui Hafida , Jamouli Hicham
Published: September 2016

Because of their specific and complex characteristics, construction projects are exposed to numerous risks of various natures, which make their management more difficult. In this setting, Project Risk Management is an indispensable activity for their successful delivery. It consists in the risk identification, assessment, prioritization, treatment, monitoring and control. This paper presents a novel approach for the identification of construction project risks and a network theory-based methodology for their modelling and analysis. These models serve as a powerful tools comparing to classical methods and provide a support for decision-making regarding Project Risk Management. A case study of a real construction project is used to illustrate these findings.
Student Perceptions of Teachers’ Mindset Beliefs in the Classroom Setting
Authors: Gutshall C. Anne
Published: September 2016

Academic Mindset is a collection of 4 beliefs that directly impacts student academic perseverance, academic behaviors and academic performance (Farrington et al., 2012). Research suggests teachers and students hold beliefs about the stability/malleability of ability (Dweck, 2006); however, little is known about the nature of the relationship between student ability beliefs and teacher ability beliefs in classroom settings. The current research explores the nature of Student Mindset beliefs (n=359) (SM), Students’ Perception of Teacher Mindset beliefs (SPTM) and Teacher Mindset (TM) beliefs. Results suggest that Student Mindset (SM) is related to Teacher Mindset (TM) and fully mediated by Student Perception of Teacher Mindset (SPTM). Implications for educators are discussed.
Over warmte, gezelligheid en ontspanning: positieve veiligheid in stedelijke uitgaansgebieden
Authors: Brands Jelle
Published: September 2016

On conviviality, comfort and recreation: positive images of safety in urban nightlife-areas

From a geographical perspective, this article explores positive images of safety in the context of nightlife areas. It also considers the ways by which nightlife visitors’ experienced safety might be nurtured, as an alternative to how experienced lack of safety might be ‘prevented’. From our interviews, we find safety to emerge from interactions between many (im)material elements, and the nightlife consumers themselves. We argue that positive safety can be understood as something that envelopes and at the same time is reworked by individuals, but that does not necessarily require a conscious understanding. From this finding, we offer a different logic and rhetoric regarding safety in nightlife spaces.
Safe havens voor onrechtmatig in Nederland verblijvende vreemdelingen
Authors: Staring Richard , Kox Mieke
Published: September 2016

Safe havens for irregular immigrants in the Netherlands. Safety and migration control through NGOs

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) within Dutch civil society provide material and immaterial assistance to unauthorized migrants in the Netherlands. Based on long-term qualitative fieldwork in the life worlds of unauthorized migrants, the authors describe how the migrants experience these NGOs as a safe haven where they feel at home and secure for the risks of apprehension and deportation. We argue that these safe havens are also beneficial for the society at large. These NGOs contribute to preventing unauthorized migrants from sleeping in public places and employing illegitimate survival strategies. In addition, the NGOs’ empowerment of these migrants is advantageous for their willingness to access healthcare and employ legal rights. Recent attempts of the Dutch government to restrict the number of these NGOs, lead amongst other things to NGOs who are increasingly focusing on the unauthorized migrants’ return. We argue that these governmental efforts of controlling unauthorized migration through NGOs, will result in unauthorized migrants loosing trust in these safe havens. Ultimately, this governmental control through NGOs will have a negative impact on feelings of security in the society at large as it fundamentally diminishes the significance of these NGOs in civil society for unauthorized migrants without offering an alternative.
Jacqueline de Savornin Lohman
Authors: van Swaaningen René
Published: September 2016

Jacqueline de Savornin Lohman: ‘Elder-power’ in penal reform

Jacqueline de Savornin Lohman is a ‘positive criminologist’ avant la lettre. In this interview, she tells about her belief in personal people’s willingness and ability to deal with problems (such as the reception of refugees), the discouraging role of government in this respect, her internment in a Japanese camp in the Netherlands’ Indies during WW II, the persons who have inspired her most (e.g. Louk Hulsman) and her initial disbelief in the idea of a ‘glass ceiling’ for women in a male-dominated academia. She would, however, be confronted with some stunning examples of everyday sexism – such as reactions that she did not need a tenured position at the university, because she does not have to maintain a family. Being active in the women’s movement, also led her to engage in critical victimological studies – mainly on sexual violence. The main part of the interview deals with the practical consequences she has drawn from her critical action-theory on criminal justice ‘Allowed evil?’ (Kwaad dat mag?) from 1975, such as her role in the establishment of the Dutch liberal democrat party D’66, her involvement in the Coornhert League for Penal Reform, her attempts to establish a platform for various practical, critical social work initiatives in the penal field and indeed the establishment of one of the first mediation projects in the Netherlands – which she saw boycotted by the Ministry of Justice, that, in the late 1980s, instrumentalised the victim’s voice for a stiffening of the penal system.