bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Smoke Evacuation During Laparoscopic Surgery: A Problem Beyond the COVID-19 Period. A Quantitative Analysis of CO2 Environmental Dispersion Using Different Devices
Authors: Bracale Umberto , Silvestri Vania , Pontecorvi Emanuele , Russo Immacolata , Triassi Maria , Cassinotti Elisa , Merola Giovanni , Montuori Paolo , Boni Luigi , Corcione Francesco 
Published: May 2021

Background. The COVID-19 pandemic leads to several debates regarding the possible risk for healthcare professionals during surgery. SAGES and EAES raised the issue of the transmission of infection through the surgical smoke during laparoscopy. They recommended the use of smoke evacuation devices (SEDs) with CO2 filtering systems. The aim of the present study is to compare the efficacy of different SEDs evaluating the CO2 environmental dispersion in the operating theater. Methods. We prospectively evaluated the data of 4 group of patients on which we used different SEDs or standard trocars: AIRSEAL system (S1 group), a homemade device (S2 group), an AIRSEAL system + homemade device (S3 group), and with standard trocars and without SED (S4 group). Quantitative analysis of CO2 environmental dispersion was carried out associated to the following data in order to evaluate the pneumoperitoneum variations: a preset insufflation pressure, real intraoperative pneumoperitoneum pressure, operative time, total volume of insufflated CO2, and flow rate index. Results. 16 patients were prospectively enrolled. The [CO2] mean value was 711 ppm, 641 ppm, 593 ppm, and 761 ppm in S1, S2, S3, and S4 groups, respectively. The comparison between data of all groups showed statistically significant differences in the measured ambient CO2 concentration. Conclusion. All tested SEDs seem to be useful to reduce the CO2 environmental dispersion respect to the use of standard trocars. The association of AIRSEAL system and a homemade device seems to be the best solution combining an adequate smoke evacuation and a stable pneumoperitoneum during laparoscopic surgery.
A new aspiration device equipped with a hydro-separator for acute ischemic stroke due to challenging soft and stiff clots
Authors: Kaneko Naoki , Ghovvati Mahsa , Komuro Yutaro , Guo Lea , Khatibi Kasra , Ponce Mejia Lucido L , Saber Hamidreza , Annabi Nasim , Tateshima Satoshi 
Published: May 2021

Objective Fragile soft clots and stiff clots remain challenging in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke. This study aims to investigate the impact of clot stiffness on the efficacy of thrombectomy devices and a new aspiration catheter with a hydro-separator. Methods The Neurostar aspiration catheter has a novel hydro-separator technology that macerates clots by a stream of saline inside the catheter. The Neurostar catheter and two commercially available devices, the SOFIA aspiration catheter and Solitaire stent retriever, were tested in this study. We evaluated the efficacy of each device on clots with various stiffness in a simple in vitro model. We also assessed single-pass recanalization performance in challenging situations with large erythrocyte-rich clots and fibrin-rich clots in a realistic vascular model. Results We observed an inverse association between the clot stiffness and recanalization rates. The aspiration catheter, SOFIA ingested soft clots but not moderately stiff clots. When removing soft clots with the stent retriever, fragmentation was observed, although relatively stiff clots were well-integrated and removed. The Neurostar ingested soft clots similar to the aspiration catheter, and also aspirated stiff clots by continuous suction with hydro-separator. In the experiments with challenging clots, the Neurostar led to significantly higher recanalization rates than the stent retriever and aspiration catheter. Conclusions The stiffness of the clots affected the efficacy of endovascular thrombectomy based on the type of device. The Neurostar catheter with hydro-separator resulted in better success rates than a commercially available aspiration catheter and stent retriever in this experimental model.
A comparison of revascularization methods for peripheral arterial disease in diabetics: Changing trends in lower extremity revascularization from 2008 to 2014
Authors: Qiu Qiong , Stefanopoulos Stavros , Kaissieh Daniela , Wandtke Meghan , Ren Gang , Osman Mohamed , Nazzal Munier , Ahmed Ayman 
Published: May 2021

Objectives This study examined the current demographic and outcome trends regarding endovascular and open revascularization for people with diabetes. Methods The National Inpatient Sample database was utilized to identify diabetic patients who underwent lower extremity revascularization and amputation procedures between 2008 and 2014. International Classification of Diseases 9th edition codes were used to identify the procedures, diagnoses, and comorbidities. Results We identified 38,143 diabetic patients who underwent endovascular revascularization and 25,415 who underwent open revascularization between 2008 and 2014. The number of endovascular and open revascularization procedures decreased steadily by 17.5% and 12.43% during the study period, respectively. The total charges for the endovascular procedure were greater than the open procedure ($98,761 vs. $80,782, p ≤ 0.001) despite similar median length of stay (5 days (inner quartile range (IQR) = 1–10) vs. 5 days (IQR = 3–10), p ≤ 0.001). Compared to open, the in-patient amputation rate for endovascular patients has been increasing faster for both minor (11.75% vs. 0.37%) and major amputations (3.08% vs. 0.19%). Although the post-procedure amputation rates between endovascular and open procedures were increased for endovascular patients (odds ratio [OR] = 1.71, confidence interval [CI] = 1.35–2.18, p ≤ 0.001) in 2008, by 2014 the risk of major amputation was doubled in endovascular patients (OR = 2.88, CI = 2.27–3.64, p ≤ 0.001). African Americans were more likely to undergo minor amputation than Whites ( p ≤ 0.001). Lastly, diabetic patients with uncontrolled diabetes, systemic infection, weight loss, congestive heart failure, gangrene, and end-stage renal disease were more likely to undergo endovascular repair. Conclusions As more medically complex patients undergo endovascular revascularization, endovascular revascularization for diabetic patients is becoming associated with higher total cost despite similar length of stay, minor amputation, and major amputation rates. Further studies are needed to continuously evaluate the post-procedural outcomes and cost effectiveness of this trend.
Palliative care after stroke: A review
Authors: Cowey Eileen , Schichtel Markus , Cheyne Joshua D , Tweedie Lorna , Lehman Richard , Melifonwu Rita , Mead Gillian E 
Published: May 2021

Background Palliative care is an integral aspect of stroke unit care. In 2016, the American Stroke Association published a policy statement on palliative care and stroke. Since then there has been an expansion in the literature on palliative care and stroke. Aim Our aim was to narratively review research on palliative care and stroke, published since 2015. Results The literature fell into three broad categories: (a) scope and scale of palliative care needs, (b) organization of palliative care for stroke, and (c) shared decision making. Most literature was observational. There was a lack of evidence about interventions that address specific palliative symptoms or improve shared decision making. Racial disparities exist in access to palliative care after stroke. There was a dearth of literature from low- and middle-income countries. Conclusion We recommend further research, especially in low- and middle-income countries, including research to explore why racial disparities in access to palliative care exist. Randomized trials are needed to address specific palliative care needs after stroke and to understand how best to facilitate shared decision making.
Longer term patient management following stroke: A systematic review
Authors: Boehme Christian , Toell Thomas , Lang Wilfried , Knoflach Michael , Kiechl Stefan 
Published: May 2021

Background Tremendous progress in acute stroke therapy has improved short-term outcome but part of this achievement may be lost in the long run. Concepts for a better long-term management of stroke survivors are needed to address their unmet needs and to reduce the burden of post-stroke complications, residual deficits, and recurrent vascular events. Aims This review summarizes current knowledge on post-hospital care and the scientific evidence supporting individual programs. Summary of review A systematic search of electronic databases according to PRISMA guidelines identified 10,374 articles, 77 of which met the inclusion criteria. One large randomised controlled trial on a multifaceted care program delivered by the multidisciplinary stroke team reduced recurrent vascular events and improved quality of life and functional outcome one year after the event, while a number of studies offer solutions for individual components of post-hospital disease management like patient education, counselling, and self-management or the management of post-stroke complications and residual deficits. A majority of studies, however, was small in size and limited by a short follow-up. Most initiatives with a narrow focus on risk factor control failed to lower the risk of recurrent events. The caregivers’ central role in post-stroke patient management is broadly neglected in research. Conclusions Over the past years, first knowledge on how to best organize post-hospital care of stroke patients has emerged. Comprehensive and pragmatic programs operated by the multidisciplinary stroke team hold promise to reduce the long-term health burden of stroke. There is a clear need for further high-quality studies with both clinical endpoints and patient-reported outcomes to establish sustainable solutions in different settings and regions to improve life after stroke, a key priority of the Stroke Action Plan for Europe 2018–2030.
Differences in Glucose Readings Between Right Arm and Left Arm Using a Continuous Glucose Monitor
Authors: Kawakatsu Sonoko , Liu Xiaohan , Tran Brandon , Tran Brittany P. , Manzanero Lucy , Shih Eric , Shek Allen , Lim Jeremy J. 
Published: May 2021

Objective: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are used for evaluating real-time glucose levels to optimize diabetes management. There is limited information, however, on whether readings differ when a device is placed on the right versus the left arm. This study evaluated the mean difference in glucose levels between the right and left arm and the effect of unilateral arm exercise on this difference. The effect of an intermittent fasting diet on body fat percentage was also evaluated. Research Design and Methods: In a prospective trial, 46 adult volunteers self-selected into the intermittent fasting (IF; N = 23) or free-living (FL; N = 23) diet group and were randomized into a unilateral arm exercise group. Volunteers had CGM sensors placed simultaneously on both arms for 12-14 days. Results: The mean glucose level in the right arm was significantly higher than the left arm by 3.7 mg/dL ( P < .001), and this result was unaffected by diet or arm exercise. Glucose levels were in euglycemic range for 75.2% of the time in the right arm and 67.5% in the left arm ( P < .001). The change from baseline in body fat percentage between the IF and FL diet groups was not significant. Conclusions: Measured glucose level and time in euglycemic range differ per placement of the CGM device, and the implications of this difference should be considered in clinical practice and research.
Complications of the Transmasseteric Anteroparotid Approach for Subcondylar Fractures: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Gilliland Jared , Ritto Fabio , Tiwana Paul 
Published: May 2021

Study Design: A retrospective analysis of patients with subcondylar fractures treated via a transmasseteric anteroparotid approach by the Oral and Maxillofacial Department at the University of Oklahoma. Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate complications, morbidity, and safety with the transmasseteric anteroparotid approach for treatment of subcondylar fractures, and compare it to other findings previously reported in the literature. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted that consisted of 23 surgically treated patients in the past 2 years for subcondylar fractures. Only patients with pre-operative malocclusion and who underwent open reduction with internal fixation with the transmasseteric anteroparotid (TMAP) approach were included. Exclusion criteria included 1) patients treated with closed reduction 2) patients who failed the minimum of 1, 3, and 6-week post-operative visits. The examined parameters were the degree of mouth opening, occlusal relationship, facial nerve function, incidence of salivary fistula and results of imaging studies. Results: 20 of the surgically treated patients met the inclusion criteria. Two patients were excluded due to poor post-operative follow up and 1 was a revision of an attempted closed reduction by an outside surgeon that presented with pre-existing complications. There were no cases of temporary or permanent facial nerve paralysis reported. There were 3 salivary fistulas and 2 sialoceles, which were managed conservatively and resolved within 2 weeks, and 2 cases of inadequate post-surgical maximal incisal opening (<40 mm) were observed. Conclusion: The transmasseteric anteroparotid approach is a safe approach for open reduction and internal fixation of low condylar neck and subcondylar fractures, and it has minimal complications.
Incidental T2 hyperintensities in the medial part of the bilateral globus pallidus are possibly an age-related physiological finding
Authors: Oyama Jun , Yokoyama Kota , Fujioka Tomoyuki , Nariai Tadashi , Karakama Jun , Maehara Taketoshi , Tateishi Ukihide 
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose Bilateral T2 hyperintensities in the medial part of the globus pallidus (GP) are sometimes incidentally observed in patients without a known history of diseases that present with such lesions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of this finding and the association between this finding and age, lifestyle diseases and GP calcification. Methods We retrospectively investigated the brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of 742 patients, which included between 104 and 108 consecutive patients from each decade of life between the 20s and 80s. The signal intensity ratio of the medial part to the lateral part of the GP in T2-weighted images (T2 medial/lateral ratio) was evaluated. For cases in which brain computed tomography images were available ( N=437), GP calcifications were also evaluated. The associations between the T2 medial/lateral ratio and age, sex, history of lifestyle diseases and GP calcification were investigated. Results Bilateral T2 medial/lateral ratios >1.10, 1.30 and 1.50 were observed in 29.8%, 7.1% and 1.8% of all cases, respectively. A high bilateral T2 medial/lateral ratio was observed less frequently in young patients ( p<0.01), more frequently in elderly patients and those with hypertension or dyslipidaemia ( p<0.05) and more frequently in patients with a calcified GP ( p<0.01). Conclusion Incidental bilateral T2 hyperintensities in the medial part of the GP on brain MRI are most likely an age-related physiological finding.
Improving before-noon discharges in the acute medical ward
Authors: Zainuddin Siti Khadijah Binte , Balakrishnan Tharmmambal 
Published: May 2021

Background: Mismatch in admission and discharge rates with poor coordination of bed availability to prepare for peak admission time do not favor patient flow in any healthcare situation. In order to meet the admissions demand from the emergency department, early discharge is advocated. Aim: The purpose of this study was to increase the 11:30 discharge rate in the acute medical ward to 20% within 5 months in order to facilitate patient transfers from the emergency department. Method and intervention: A nurse-led multidisciplinary team discussion at 10:00 was formed empowering nurses and aims to prioritize early discharges or transfer patients who require a longer stay in the hospital. The indication of expected discharge date was determined by team doctors on either day 1 or 2 of admission, to facilitate and prioritize allied health intervention or even prescription processing. Physical transfer to the discharge lounge was to occur earlier, awaiting preparation of prescription and documentation. Dedicated nursing staff who manage the discharge lounge processes, were to ensure the transfers and care arrangements to be smooth and coordinated with enhanced communication to next of kin. Results: The overall median rate for discharges before 11:30 in the acute medical ward was at 17%, compared to baseline median discharge rate of 12% ( p=0.05) and evening discharges that remained. With the implementation of a framework for multidisciplinary team discussion, the mean time spent on multidisciplinary team reduced to 40 min from the pre-intervention stage, ranging approximately 57–68 min. Conclusion: The discharge process is complex and requires multidisciplinary team collaboration and coordination. This project also created an opportunity for more relevant project targeting evening discharges that addresses another emergency department peak admission time.
Busulfan plus melphalan versus melphalan alone conditioning regimen after bortezomib based triplet induction chemotherapy for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Park Songyi , Shin Dong-Yeop , Hong Junshik , Kim Inho , Koh Youngil , Byun Ja Min , Yoon Sung-Soo 
Published: May 2021

Background: High dose melphalan (HDMEL) is considered the standard conditioning regimen for autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) in multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Recent studies showed superiority of busulfan plus melphalan (BUMEL) compared to HDMEL as a conditioning regimen. We compared the efficacy of HDMEL and BUMEL in newly diagnosed Asian MM patients, who are often underrepresented. Methods: This is a single-center, retrospective study including MM patients who underwent ASCT after bortezomib-thalidomide-dexamethasone (VTD) triplet induction chemotherapy between January 2015 and August 2019. Result: In the end, 79 patients in the HDMEL group were compared to 31 patients in the BUMEL group. There were no differences between the two groups with regards to sex, age at ASCT, risk group, and stage. The HDMEL group showed better response to pre-transplant VTD compared to BUMEL, but after ASCT the BUMEL group showed better overall response. In terms of progression-free survival (PFS), although BUMEL showed trends towards better PFS regardless of pre-transplant status and age, the difference did not reach statistical significance. The BUMEL group more often experienced mucositis related to chemotherapy, but there was no difference between the two groups with regards to hospitalization days, cell engraftment, and infection rates. Conclusion: BUMEL conditioning deserves attention as the alternative option to HDMEL for newly diagnosed MM patients, even in the era of triplet induction chemotherapy. Specifically, patients achieving very good partial response (VGPR) or better response with triplet induction chemotherapy might benefit the most from BUMEL conditioning. Tailored conditioning regimen, based on patient’s response to induction chemotherapy and co-morbidities, can lead to better treatment outcomes.
Global, regional, and national consumption of controlled opioids: a cross-sectional study of 214 countries and non-metropolitan territories
Authors: Richards Georgia C , Aronson Jeffrey K , Mahtani Kamal R , Heneghan Carl 
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The consumption of opioids has increased globally since the 1990s. Previous studies of global opioid consumption have concentrated on morphine alone or a subset of opioids, with a focus on cancer pain and palliative care. In this study, we have determined the global, regional, and national consumption of all controlled opioids, including anaesthetics, analgesics, antidiarrheals, opioid substitution therapies, and cough suppressants. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB). We calculated mean opioid consumption (mg/person) globally, regionally, and nationally for 2015–2017, where consumption refers to the total amount of controlled opioids distributed for medical purposes and excludes recreational use. We ranked countries by total consumption and quantified the types of opioids consumed globally. Results: Between 2015 and 2017, 90% of the world’s population consumed only 11% of controlled opioids. An average of 32 mg/person was consumed annually, but this was not equally distributed across the world. Consumption was the highest in Germany (480 mg/person), followed by Iceland (428 mg/person), the United States (398 mg/person) and Canada (333 mg/person). Oxycodone (35%) was the most heavily consumed controlled opioid globally, followed by morphine (15.9%), methadone (15.8%) and tilidine (14%). Conclusion: Large disparities persist in most of the world in accessing essential opioid medicines. Consumption patterns should continue to be monitored, and collaborative strategies should be developed to promote access and the appropriate prescribing of opioids in all countries and non-metropolitan territories.
Descriptive cross-sectional study on knowledge, awareness and adherence to medication among hypertensive patients in a tertiary care center, Eastern Sri Lanka
Authors: Pirasath Selladurai , Sundaresan Thadchanamoorthy 
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Hypertension is one of the common non-communicable diseases and public health problem among developed and developing countries. The lack of knowledge and awareness on hypertension and poor adherence of medication are a major challenge to control hypertension and prevent its complications. Our study aimed to assess the knowledge, awareness of hypertension and adherence to medication among hypertensive patients attending the medical clinics of a tertiary care center, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among hypertensive patients to assess knowledge, awareness of hypertension and adherence to medication in medical clinics in a tertiary care for 6 months duration. Data were collected by using pretested and validated Hypertension Facts Questionnaire. Their medication adherence and the reasons for nonadherence were studied using Medication Adherence Scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 18) analytical package and the chi-square test was performed. The scoring system was used to categorize the level of knowledge and awareness of hypertension among patients. Results: The majority of patients had moderate-to-high knowledge (101, 65.8%) about hypertension and had moderate-to-high awareness (111, 73.2%) on hypertension. Even though, 134 (87.6%) patients knew that they have hypertension, and 108 (70.6%) patients did not know their blood pressure value at the time of diagnosis. Most of the patients (90, 58.8%) had good drug adherence, and most of them (141, 92.1%) thought that taking medicine plays a key role to control their blood pressure. The main reasons for nonadherence of medication were forgetfulness (39, 32%) and expenses (46, 35.4%). The knowledge and awareness about hypertension among respondents were significantly associated with educational level (p < 0.05) Conclusion: Most of the patients had adequate knowledge on the risk factors and complications of hypertension. But they were unaware about their disease status, and their diagnosis, target organ damage and recent blood pressure values. The drug adherence was reasonably adequate. The main reasons for nonadherence of medication were forgetfulness and expenses.