bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Ovarian Cancer Risk in Relation to Blood Cholesterol and Triglycerides
Authors: Trabert Britton , Hathaway Cassandra A. , Rice Megan S. , Rimm Eric B. , Sluss Patrick M. , Terry Kathryn L. , Zeleznik Oana A. , Tworoger Shelley S. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract

Background:
The association between circulating cholesterol and triglyceride levels and ovarian cancer risk remains unclear.

Methods:
We prospectively evaluated the association between cholesterol [total, low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C)] and triglycerides and ovarian cancer incidence in a case–control study nested in the Nurses' Health Study (NHS) and NHSII cohorts and a longitudinal analysis in the UK Biobank.

Results:
A total of 290 epithelial ovarian cancer cases in the NHS/NHSII and 551 cases in UK Biobank were diagnosed after blood collection. We observed a reduced ovarian cancer risk comparing the top to bottom quartile of total cholesterol [meta-analysis relative risk (95% confidence interval): 0.81 (0.65–1.01), Ptrend 0.06], with no heterogeneity across studies (Pheterogeneity = 0.74). Overall, no clear patterns were observed for HDL-C, LDL-C, or triglycerides and ovarian cancer risk. Comparing triglyceride levels at clinically relevant cut-off points (&gt;200 vs. ≤200 mg/dL) for cases diagnosed more than 2 years after blood draw saw a positive relationship with risk [1.57 (1.03–2.42); Pheterogeneity = 0.003]. Results were similar by serous/non-serous histotype, menopausal status/hormone use, and body mass index.

Conclusions:
Data from two large cohorts in the United States and United Kingdom suggest that total cholesterol levels may be inversely associated with ovarian cancer risk, while triglycerides may be positively associated with risk when assessed at least 2 years before diagnosis, albeit both associations were modest.

Impact:
This analysis of two large prospective studies suggests that circulating lipid levels are not strongly associated with ovarian cancer risk. The positive triglyceride–ovarian cancer association warrants further evaluation.
“Crusaders” and the Islamic State Apocalypse
Authors: Roche Jason T. 
Published: August 2021

Abstract
Islamic State propaganda manipulated and combined a culturally embedded sense of Islamic history with a heady, potent mixture of classical and radical apocalyptic, and real and supposed Islamic authority, both sacred and profane. Tapping into a widespread belief in the approach of the Last Hour, the group attempted to change an established “crusader master narrative” by giving “crusaders” and their “crusade” integral roles in Islamic sacred history and an impending Islamic State apocalypse.
Role of Thyroidectomy in Recurrent Laryngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Brunet Aina , Tornari Chrysostomos , Ezebuiro Akunnah , Kennedy Robert , Connor Steve E. J. , Oakley Richard , Jeannon Jean‐Pierre , Arora Asit , Rovira Aleix , Simo Ricard 
Published: August 2021

ObjectiveManagement of recurrent laryngeal cancer presents a major challenge, and salvage laryngectomy is complicated by previous oncologic treatments. Thyroidectomy as part of salvage laryngectomy adds a nonnegligible degree of morbidity. The purpose of this study is to assess the rate of thyroid gland invasion in patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy to determine relevant predictive factors.Study DesignCase series with chart review.SettingDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Guy’s Hospital, London, United Kingdom.MethodsA retrospective review of patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy between 2009 and 2019 was undertaken. Preoperative cross‐sectional imaging and histopathological analysis were performed to define evidence and predictors of thyroid gland invasion (TGI).ResultsFifty‐one patients had salvage laryngectomy. Histological evidence of TGI was found in 4 patients (7.8%). No significant relationship was found between histological TGI and subsite of primary carcinoma, degree of differentiation, T staging, or radiological TGI. Preoperative computed tomography had a high negative predictive value for TGI.ConclusionThyroidectomy should be carefully considered in patients undergoing salvage laryngectomy, and its extent should be defined on an individual basis. Total thyroidectomy should not routinely be performed in salvage laryngectomy or pharyngolaryngectomy in patients with no preoperative radiological evidence of TGI on cross‐sectional imaging, unless there is intraoperative evidence of TGI.
Impact of Treatment Parameters on Racial Survival Differences in Oropharyngeal Cancer: National Cancer Database Study
Authors: Zhu Daniel , Wong Amanda , Oh Eun Jeong , Ahn Seungjun , Wotman Michael , Sahai Tanmay , Bottalico Danielle , Frank Douglas , Tham Tristan 
Published: August 2021

ObjectiveTo investigate how differences in treatment parameters account for survival differences between races of patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC).Study DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingNational Cancer Database.MethodsData of patients with OPSCC undergoing radiation therapy (RT) or concurrent chemoradiation therapy as primary treatment were obtained from the National Cancer Database from 2004 to 2016. We analyzed 4 treatment‐related time intervals to determine their impact on survival between races when controlling for human papilloma virus (HPV) status. Cox proportional hazards models, stepwise logistic regressions, covariate adjustments, and propensity score matching were performed.ResultsA total of 3152 patients were identified (2877 White, 275 Black). In HPV– cases, Black patients with prolonged radiation duration had a significantly worse overall survival as compared with White patients (hazard ratio, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.03‐3.05; P =. 039). In a logistic regression model, the only covariate that was significantly associated with prolonged RT was facility type. When further adjusted for facility type, the survival difference between Black and White patients with HPV– status and prolonged RT times was no longer significant (hazard ratio, 1.55; 95% CI, 0.90‐2.69; P =. 116).ConclusionsThere is a significant disparity in overall survival between Black and White patients with HPV– OPSCC when RT duration is prolonged. Clinicians should be aware of the negative impact of prolonged RT, especially in Black patients, so that they can attempt to decrease treatment‐related time intervals. Facility type was also found to affect the outcomes of patients with OPSCC, and efforts should be made to improve patient access to well‐equipped, high‐volume facilities.
The Quest for a DISE Protocol
Authors: Mooney Kristin L. , Brooks Peterson Melissa , Skirko Jonathan R. , Friedman Norman R. 
Published: August 2021

ObjectiveThe objective of this quality initiative project was to modify our existing institutional drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) protocol so that the surgeon could consistently determine obstructive breathing patterns while minimizing children’s discomfort.MethodsA quality initiative study utilizing the well‐described plan‐do‐study‐act (PDSA) process was conducted at a tertiary hospital for children with polysomnogram‐documented obstructive sleep apnea who were undergoing DISE. A 4‐point Likert measurement tool was created. Change in each Likert rating with subsequent PDSA cycle was tested with the Wilcoxon rank sum test (Mann‐Whitney), and change across all PDSA cycles was tested with the Kruskal‐Wallis equality‐of‐populations rank test.ResultsAfter a series of 4 PDSA cycles with 81 children, the DISE protocol was streamlined from 14 to 9 steps. There was significant improvement for all aspects of the DISE, with a final overall median rating of 1 (excellent) for intravenous (IV) placement, scope insertion, and anesthesiologist and surgeon satisfaction (P <. 01)DiscussionFor sleep surgeons, DISE is quickly becoming what bronchoscopy is to the airway surgeon. Utilizing inhalational agents to obtain IV access and insert the flexible scope in the rapid “on‐off” fashion optimizes DISE success regardless of the primary sedation medication and allows ample time for these agents to dissipate.Implications for PracticeAdoption of a DISE protocol that includes nasal premedication and inhalational volatile gases for IV and scope insertion at the onset provides a more predictable level of sedation that is well tolerated by the patient, enabling the otolaryngologist to create an obstructive sleep apnea treatment plan.
Place of Death of Geriatric Population in Turkey: A 7-Year Observational Study
Authors: Ceylan Serdar , Guner Oytun Merve , Okyar Bas Arzu , Kahyaoglu Zeynep , Dogu Burcu B. , Cankurtaran Mustafa , Halil Meltem G. 
Published: August 2021

Background End-of-life care has become an important public health issue in recent years. Place of death is a major component of end-of-life care. Despite attempts to improve end-of-life care, there has not been published any data about place of deaths in Turkey. Aim: This retrospective, cross-sectional study investigates the place of death and trends over the years in geriatric age groups in Turkey. Methods: Patients who were admitted to geriatric outpatient clinic of a university hospital during a 7-year period were included. Place and date of death information were received from the death notification system and recorded as hospital or out-of-hospital death. Demographic and clinical data were collected from the hospital information system. Deaths occurring after March 1, 2020 were not included to eliminate the effect of coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic. Results: A total of 4025 (20.7%) patients were determined to be dead. Approximately three-quarters of deaths (73.0%) occurred in hospital. The number of deaths reported from nursing homes was only 13 (3.0%). Patients with dementia less frequently died in hospital, however, it was not statistically significant (12.4% vs 14.7%, P = .05). The prevalence of death in hospital was significantly higher in patients with chronic renal failure (3.1% vs 1.7%, P = .02). The presence of comorbid conditions such as heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, Parkinson's disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma, and cancer did not affect the place of death ( P = .24, .21, .24, .51, and .18). Out-of-hospital mortality increased with advanced age ( P < .001). No significant difference was found in the place of death over the years ( P = .41). Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study examining the place of death in Turkey, an aging country. Our results may help to establish policies about end-of-life care in elderly people to improve quality of life by using resources effectively.
Furlow Palatoplasty for Velopharyngeal Dysfunction Management: Auditing and Predicting Outcomes
Authors: Bonanthaya Krishnamurthy , Jalil Jazna , Sasikumar Aparna V. , Shetty Pritham N. 
Published: August 2021

Objective The Furlow palatoplasty is a proven procedure in the management of secondary velopharyngeal dysfunction in patients with cleft palate. But the selection of cases, the degree of clinical success, and the preoperative predictors of the same are less established. This study is an effort to retrospectively look at outcomes, in a large series of velopharyngeal dysfunction cases treated with the Furlow palatoplasty alone. Design Retrospective analysis of preoperative and postoperative speech and videofluoroscopic data. Setting Tertiary care center. Patients/Participants Ninety-two patients who were diagnosed with velopharyngeal dysfunction post primary cleft palate repair. Interventions Furlow palatoplasty for velopharyngeal dysfunction post primary cleft palate repair. Main outcome measures Variables analyzed were perceptual speech parameters and, closure ratios obtained from lateral video-fluoroscopic images. Results Overall, 81.5% had postoperative improvements in their lateral video-fluoroscopic parameters, 63% improved their nasality scores, and 65.2% had improved speech intelligibility. A simple linear regression was done to predict the postoperative closure ratio. Preoperative closure ratio, hypernasality (moderate and severe), and audible nasal air emission are predictors for postoperative closure ratio. Conclusions The Furlow palatoplasty alone led to complete resolution, or significant improvement of velopharyngeal dysfunction in a majority of patients, despite the cohort having a wide range of severity in terms of degree of dysfunction. The predictive formula will be validated in a further study.
Impact of Local Flavored Tobacco Sales Restrictions on Policy-Related Attitudes and Tobacco Product Access
Authors: Feld Ashley L. , Rogers Todd , Gaber Jennifer , Pikowski Jessica , Farrelly Matthew C. , Henriksen Lisa , Johnson Trent O. , Halpern-Felsher Bonnie , Andersen-Rodgers Elizabeth , Zhang Xueying 
Published: August 2021

Background As of September 2020, more than 300 state and local jurisdictions restrict the sales of flavored tobacco, with some including menthol. Aims To evaluate the impact of local ordinances restricting the sale of flavored tobacco, we surveyed Californians regarding policy support and perceived access to flavored tobacco. Methods In 2019, we conducted an online survey of 3,075 California youth and young adults recruited via social media, about half of whom lived in a policy jurisdiction. Logistic regressions assessed differences on propensity score–weighted outcomes, policy support, and perceived access. Results Most respondents indicated agreement with almost all policy support statements. Although policy respondents were less likely than rest-of-California respondents to report perceived difficulty in buying flavored cigars, flavored vape users in policy jurisdictions were more likely than those in the rest of California to report perceived difficulty in buying flavored e-liquid. Regardless of jurisdiction, certain priority subgroups were significantly more likely to report perceived difficulty in accessing flavored cigars, flavored vaping products, flavored e-liquid, and menthol cigarettes. Discussion With some exceptions, these findings demonstrate that among vape users in policy jurisdictions and priority subgroups, there is a higher likelihood of reporting perceived difficulty to access flavored tobacco products. Conclusions Findings might be an early indication of shifts in social norms about flavored tobacco products in California, which could gain traction as local sales restriction ordinances proliferate throughout the state and a statewide flavored-tobacco sales restriction goes into effect.
Is keratoconus associated to thyroid diseases? Assessment of the corneal parameters in patients with congenital hypothyroidism
Authors: Roszkowska Anna M , Alessandrello Federica , Waśniewska Małgorzata , Tropeano Angelo , Gargano Romina , Aragona Pasquale 
Published: August 2021

Purpose: To investigate the association between keratoconus and congenital hypothyroidism (CH). Patients and methods: Patients were enrolled in this study and divided into two groups. The first group comprised 31 subjects (11M:20F) with the mean age of 15.2 ± 3.9 years. affected by CH, and the control group was composed by 19 healthy individuals (8M:11F) aged 14.3 ± 4.6 years. All patients underwent complete ophthalmologic examination with visual acuity assessment, refraction, slit lamp examination, and retinoscopy. Corneal parameters were measured using Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam® Oculus, Germany). The main outcome measures considered for evaluation were: average corneal curvature (K), central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior elevation and posterior elevation at the thinnest point, corneal volume (CV), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and anterior chamber volume (ACV). Additionally, data from Belin/Ambrosio Enhanced Ectasia Display (BAD) and the high order aberrations were evaluated. Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used to verify the Gaussian distribution, the comparison between the controls and cases group was performed by Mann-Whitney nonparametric test. A p value less than 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. The odds ratio was performed in order to quantify the relationship between the congenital hypothyroidism and abnormal values displayed on front BAD. Results: The significant difference in the refractive status between both groups was observed. As to examined corneal and anterior chamber parameters no statistical differences were detected. Conclusions: Congenital hypothyroidism diagnosed and treated since the early postnatal life doesn’t induce abnormalities of corneal parameters suggestive for keratoconus.
C-11 methionine positron emission tomography scans improve the preoperative localization of pathologic parathyroid glands in primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Iversen Peter , Arveschoug Anne K. , Rejnmark Lars , Rolighed Lars 
Published: August 2021

Background and objective: Preoperative localization of pathologic parathyroid glands is essential in the preparation of a parathyroidectomy. We evaluated the use of a C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan in a 7-year period in selected patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. The indications to perform a C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography were either persistent primary hyperparathyroidism after parathyroidectomy or inconclusive preoperative localization on ultrasound and sestaMIBI. Methods: A group of 36 patients was referred for a C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Biochemical data, pathology, and results of sestaMIBI were collected retrospectively. The primary hyperparathyroidism patients were divided into two groups. In group 1 ( N = 17), the C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography was performed before parathyroidectomy. In group 2 ( N = 19), the C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography was performed after unsuccessful parathyroidectomy and before a reoperation. Results: Overall, in 30 of the 36 patients (83%), C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography identified a true-positive pathologic parathyroid gland confirmed by an experienced pathologist, consistent with a positive predictive value of 91%. In group 1, 94% of the patients ( N = 16) had pathologic parathyroid tissue identified by C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography. This resulted in a clinical benefit in 13 patients (76%). In group 2, the benefit was slightly lower, as 74% of the patients ( N = 14) had a true-positive C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan resulting in a clinical benefit in nine patients (47%). Conclusions: In two selected groups of patients planned for an initial operation or reoperation of primary hyperparathyroidism and inconclusive conventional imaging, we found C-11 methionine positron emission tomography/computed tomography to give parathyroid surgeons a clinical benefit in the majority of cases, electing the patients for unilateral surgery.
Domestic Violence During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kourti Anastasia , Stavridou Androniki , Panagouli Eleni , Psaltopoulou Theodora , Spiliopoulou Chara , Tsolia Maria , Sergentanis Theodoros N. , Tsitsika Artemis 
Published: August 2021

Background: COVID-19 outbreak and the followed confinement measures have raised concerns to specialists worldwide regarding the imminent increase in domestic violence cases. The present systematic review aims to identify the international trends in domestic violence during the COVID-19 epidemic and to examine the possible differences among all population groups and different geographic areas worldwide. Method: The following databases were accessed: DOAJ, ERIC, Google Scholar, ProQuest, Pubmed, PsycNet, and SCOPUS, up to July 22, 2020. Results: A total of 32 studies were considered eligible. Data from North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific Area, Africa, and worldwide researches were retrieved. COVID-19 has caused an increase in domestic violence cases, especially during the first week of the COVID-19 lockdown in each country. In children, however, although the specialists’ estimations suggested an increase in child maltreatment and abuse cases, the rate of police and social services’ reports has declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. School closures that isolated students at home seemed to have contributed to this decrease. Conclusions: Domestic violence has been a considerable issue imposed by the COVID-19 epidemic to a worldwide context. The home confinement led to constant contact between perpetrators and victims, resulting in increased violence and decreased reports. In order to minimize such issues, prevention measures and supporting programs are necessary.
Extended Stent Coverage Decreases Distal Aortic Segmental Enlargement After the Endovascular Repair of Acute Complicated Type B Aortic Dissection: A Multi-Center Retrospective Study of 814 Patients
Authors: Liu Junjun , Yan Chaojun , Li Lubin , Feng Hai , Xie Shengmao , Zhang Guohui , Cheng Wei , Guo Mingjin , Liu MingYuan 
Published: August 2021

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of distal aortic segmental enlargement (DASE) after thoracic endovascular aortic repair for complicated type B aortic dissection (cTBAD). Materials and Methods: From March 2003 to October 2018, 814 patients with acute cTBAD from 5 medical centers were retrospectively identified. DASE is indicated as the enlargement of distal aortic segmental volume ≥1.6 fold of the preoperative volume compared with the most recent postoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) scan. Of these patients, 635 (78%) were identified as non-DASE, and 179 (22%) were identified as DASE. Competing risk analysis was performed to compare late death and distal aortic reintervention between the groups. The morphological variables and false lumen thrombosis at 7 aortic levels were measured based on the preoperative CTA and the most recent CTA. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to assess the independent predictors of DASE. Results: The mean follow-up time of the entire cohort was 5.6 years (interquartile range: 2.4–8.3 years). There were total of 208 late deaths, including 94 (14.8%) deaths in non-DASE group versus 114 (63.7%) deaths in the DASE group. Distal aortic reintervention was observed in 89 patients, with 43(6.7%) in the non-DASE group versus 46 (25.7%) in the DASE group. The cumulative incidence of late death and distal aortic reintervention were significantly higher in the DASE than in the non-DASE group (p<0.001). In morphological analysis, significant incomplete false lumen thrombosis was observed in all distal aortic segments above the aortic level of celiac artery (p<0.01). According to multivariate analysis, the Marfan syndrome, stent coverage to the level of diaphragm and the level of celiac artery were independent predictors of the DASE (p<0.001). Patients with extended stent coverage to the level of celiac artery have shown a lower incidence of DASE (p<0.010). Conclusion: Compared with the non-DASE group, patients with DASE demonstrated a higher rate of late death and distal aortic reintervention. For the cTBAD population, extended stent-graft coverage to the aortic section between diaphragm and celiac artery might serve as a “cost-efficient” cutoff point aiming to reduce the risk of DASE.