bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Short-term outcomes of preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump use in patients undergoing adjunctive coronary endarterectomy: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Wang Liangshan , Hao Xing , Wang Xiaomeng , Gu Chengxiong , Wang Hong , Hou Xiaotong 
Published: February 2018

Background: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) combined with coronary endarterectomy (CE) can be associated with high operative mortality and morbidity. An intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) has been the most widely used mechanical circulatory support device during perfusion treatment. However, the benefits of preoperative IABP in CABG combined with CE remain unknown. We conducted a retrospective observational study to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative IABP therapy in patients undergoing adjunctive right coronary artery (RCA) endarterectomy. Methods: Between May 2013 and May 2016, 120 patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCABG) with RCA endarterectomy who received preoperative IABP support (IABP group, n=56) or who did not receive preoperative IABP support (control group, n=64) were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Patients in the IABP group had a significantly lower mean preoperative ejection fraction and a significantly higher mean EuroSCORE (both <0.05). The incidence of inferior myocardial infarction (MI) was significantly lower in the IABP group than in the control group (3.6% vs 15.6%, RR = 0.23, 95% CI 0.05-1.00, p=0.03). Hospital mortality was similar in the two groups (3.6% vs 4.7%, RR= 0.76, 95% CI 0.13-4.40, p=0.76). There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to the rates of prolonged ventilation, low cardiac output syndrome, renal failure requiring dialysis, re-operation for bleeding or IABP-related complications. Preoperative IABP may be a protective factor of inferior MI (HR = 0.031, 95% CI 0.004-0.211, p<0.001) Conclusions: The preoperative use of IABP could reduce the incidence of postoperative MI in patients undergoing CABG with CE and seemed to shift high-risk patients into a lower-risk category.
Transnational Chicago: The Local and Translocal Networks and Loyalties of Post-Socialist Lithuanian Immigrants
Authors: Čiubrinskas Vytis 
Published: February 2018

AbstractThe processes of post-socialist transformation, especially large-scale migration from Eastern Europe to the Western hemisphere, are creating an ‘expansion of space’ from the local to the supra-local. This process involves the expansion of personal-, familial- and friendship-based networking practices which acquire significance as transnational mobile livelihoods and as significant dimensions of urban dynamics in global cities like Chicago. What are the networks, attachments and social bonds of Eastern European migrants in Chicago? Ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Chicago in 2013 among recent Lithuanian immigrants brought out the importance of a cultural identity of East European-ness involving contested loyalties and limited integration. While living locally, Lithuanian immigrants are expected both to be bound to the ethnic community and to be immersed in the multicultural life-style of the mega city. However the research has shown that livelihoods and social relations among ‘one's own people’ are involved in trans-ethnic networks and that the bonds of intimacy and the alliances among ‘one's own people’ run through homeland roots and patrimonial linkages rather than through the citizenship loyalties of the state (the United States and/or Lithuania). The circle of ‘one's own people’ implies extensive reciprocity and social networking among ‘friends’ and co-workers based on ‘one's own resourcefulness’ a kind of social capital. Thus, ‘sharing important acquaintances’ ought to involve ‘doing favours’ and livelihood experiences transplanted from oversees are practised in Chicago as ‘local’ life-styles and are used for transnational networking, securing in the process the social status of those involved.
Outcomes of multitarget therapy using mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus for refractory or relapsing lupus nephritis
Authors: Choi C-B , Won S , Bae S-C 
Published: February 2018

Objectives Outcomes of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have significantly improved over the years. However, when there is major organ involvement, the outcomes can still be unfavorable. Outcomes of multitarget therapy using mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and tacrolimus in patients with SLE who were refractory to standard therapy were assessed. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the Hanyang BAE lupus cohort to identify patients with biopsy-confirmed lupus nephritis (classes III, IV, or V) who failed to either achieve complete response with standard induction therapy or those who had a lupus flare after achieving a complete response with conventional induction therapy and subsequently were switched to multitarget combination therapy with MMF and tacrolimus. Outcomes, including renal response, proteinuria, glomerular filtration rate, serum albumin, anti-dsDNA antibody level, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), and complements, were assessed at six and 12 months. Results Twenty-nine patients, including 12 who failed to achieve a complete response at 12 months after initial conventional induction therapy and 17 with lupus flare after achieving a complete response at 12 months and treated with multitarget therapy, were included in the analysis. At six months, 53.9% of the patients showed a response, with 15.4% of patients showing a complete response and 38.5% of patients showing a partial response. At 12 months, 55.5% of patients exhibited a response (with complete and partial response in 25.9% and 29.6%, respectively). The dosage of steroids was significantly decreased at six months compared with baseline and was maintained at 12 months. Proteinuria, anti-double-stranded DNA antibody positivity, as well as C3 and C4 levels improved after treatment and persisted until 12 months, but were not significant. SLEDAI also improved. Outcomes were significantly better in patients who had a complete response but later had a flare, resulting in the use of multitarget therapy and achieving a subsequent complete response. Conclusions Multitarget therapy with MMF and tacrolimus can be a reasonable option in refractory lupus nephritis patients who failed to show adequate response to conventional induction therapy or who had flares during maintenance therapy. This treatment can help patients achieve a renal response and reduce the use of steroids.
Role of Tendoscopy in Treating Stage II Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
Authors: Bernasconi Alessio , Sadile Francesco , Welck Matthew , Mehdi Nazim , Laborde Julien , Lintz François 
Published: February 2018

Background: Stage II tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction (PTTD) resistant to conservative therapies is usually treated with invasive surgery. Posterior tibial tendoscopy is a novel technique being used in the assessment and treatment of posterior tibial pathology. The aims of this study were (1) to clarify the role of posterior tibial tendon tendoscopy in treating stage II PTTD, (2) to arthroscopically classify spring ligament lesions, and (3) to compare the arthroscopic assessment of spring ligament lesions with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonographic (US) data. Methods: We reviewed prospectively collected data on 16 patients affected by stage II PTTD and treated by tendoscopy. We report the reoperation rate and functional outcomes evaluated by comparing pre- and postoperative visual analogic scale for pain (VAS-pain) and the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36; with its physical [PCS] and mental [MCS] components). Postoperative satisfaction was assessed using a VAS-satisfaction scale. One patient was lost to follow-up. Spring ligament lesions were arthroscopically classified in 3 stages. Discrepancies between preoperative imaging and intraoperative findings were evaluated. Results: At a mean of 25.6 months’ follow-up, VAS-pain ( P < .001), SF-36 PCS ( P = .039), and SF-36 MCS ( P < .001) significantly improved. The mean VAS-satisfaction score was 75.3/100. Patients were relieved from symptoms in 80% of cases, while 3 patients required further surgery. MRI and US were in agreement with intraoperative data in 92% and 67%, respectively, for the tendon assessment and in 78% and 42%, respectively, for the spring ligament. Conclusions: Tendoscopy may be considered a valid therapeutic tool in the treatment of stage II PTTD resistant to conservative treatment. It provided objective and subjective encouraging results that could allow continued conservative therapy while avoiding more invasive surgery in most cases. MRI and US were proven more useful in detecting PT lesions than spring ligament tears. Further studies on PT could use this tendoscopic classification to standardize its description. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study, case series.
Repeated measurements of renal function in evaluating its decline in cats
Authors: Finch Natalie C , Syme Harriet M , Elliott Jonathan 
Published: February 2018

Objectives The aim of this study was to describe the variability in renal function markers in non-azotaemic and azotaemic cats, and also the rate of change in the markers. Methods Plasma creatinine concentration and its reciprocal, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urine specific gravity (USG) were studied as markers of renal function in client-owned cats. GFR was determined using a corrected slope-intercept iohexol clearance method. Renal function testing was performed at baseline and a second time point. The within-population variability (coefficient of variation; CV%) was determined at the baseline time point. Within-individual variability (CV%) and rate of change over time were determined from the repeated measurements. Results Twenty-nine cats were included in the study, of which five had azotaemic chronic kidney disease. The within-individual variability (CV%) in creatinine concentration was lower in azotaemic cats than in non-azotaemic cats (6.81% vs 8.82%), whereas the within-individual variability in GFR was higher in azotaemic cats (28.94% vs 19.98%). The within-population variability was greatest for USG (67.86% in azotaemic cats and 38.00% in non-azotaemic cats). There was a negative rate of change in creatinine concentration in azotaemic and non-azotaemic cats (–0.0265 and –0.0344 µmol/l/day, respectively) and a positive rate of change of GFR in azotaemic and non-azotaemic cats (0.0062 and 0.0028 ml/min/day, respectively). Conclusions and relevance The within-individual variability data suggest creatinine concentration to be the more useful marker for serial monitoring of renal function in azotaemic cats. In contrast, in non-azotaemic cats, GFR is a more useful marker for serial monitoring of renal function. The majority of cats with azotaemic CKD did not have an appreciable decline in renal function during the study.
Extending access to care across the rural US south: Preliminary results from the Alabama eHealth programme
Authors: Jain Kriti M , Bhat Prashanth , Maulsby Cathy , Andersen Alexandria , Soto Tomas , Tarrant Ashley , Holtgrave David R , Nortrup Erin , Werner Melissa , Dill Laurie 
Published: February 2018

Purpose Using a mixed-methods formative evaluation, the purpose of this study was to provide a broad overview of the Alabama eHealth programme set-up and initial patient outcomes. The Alabama eHealth programme uses telemedicine to provide medical care to people living with HIV in rural Alabama. It was led by a community-based organisation, Medical Advocacy and Outreach (MAO), and supported by AIDS United and the Corporation for National Community Service’s Social Innovation Fund with matching support from non-federal donors. Methods We conducted and transcribed in-depth interviews with Alabama eHealth staff and then performed directed content analysis. We also tracked patients’ ( n = 240) appointment attendance, CD4 counts, and viral loads. Findings Staff described the steps taken to establish the programme, associated challenges (e.g., costly, inadequate broadband in rural areas), and technology enabling this programme (electronic medical records, telemedicine equipment). Of all enrolled patients, 76% were retained in care, 88% had antiretroviral therapy and 75% had a suppressed viral load. Among patients without missing data, 96% were retained in care, 97% used antiretroviral therapy and 93% had suppressed viral loads. There were no statistically significant demographic differences between those with and without missing data. Conclusions Patients enrolled in a telemedicine programme evaluation successfully moved through the HIV continuum of care.
Risk factors influencing severity of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in a sample of preparatory school students in Cairo
Authors: Ramy Hisham , El Sheikh Mona , Sultan Marwa , Bassim Rasha , Eid Maissa , Ali Ramy , El Missiry Marwa 
Published: February 2018

Background: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood psychiatric disorders. Severity of symptoms is associated with more behavioral problems, poor academic performance, and persistence of symptoms into adulthood. Methods: To examine the clinical and social correlates that may be identified as risk factors associated with ADHD severity in a sample of adolescent ADHD school students. A total of 925 students were recruited from two public and two private schools from eastern Cairo. They were interviewed using Conners-Wells Adolescent Self-Report—short version (CASS-S); students scoring more than 65 were further interviewed with Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia—present and lifetime version (K-SADS-PL) to confirm the diagnosis, then Conners-Wells Adolescent Self-Report—long version (CASS-L) to assess severity and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) to ascertain intellectual ability. Results: About 10.3% of cases were severe, 5.7% were moderate, and 83.9% were mild. Severity was significantly associated with female gender, psychiatric comorbidity, family problems, conduct symptoms, and poor anger management. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.) ( DSM-IV) hyperactive–impulsive type was the only predictive factor of ADHD severity. Conclusions: The diagnosis of hyperactive–impulsive subtype may predict the severity of ADHD symptoms.
Macro interventions and their influence on individual and community well-being
Authors: Ferguson Kristin M , Teixeira Samantha , Wernick Laura J , Burghardt Steve 
Published: February 2018

Summary Due to the focus of micro-practice interventions on clinical outcomes and macro-practice interventions on structural outcomes, limited research exists on the clinical benefits resulting from clients’ involvement in macro therapeutic interventions (i.e. structural interventions that target community, organizational, systems, and/or policy-level change and which also have clinical benefits to clients or consumers). In response to this knowledge gap, the authors present four case studies of macro therapeutic interventions in the areas of social enterprise creation, community-based participatory research, transformative organizing, and community-based partnerships. Findings Collectively, these interventions draw from community, economic, and social development theory, empowerment theory, feminist theory, and critical theory. The authors synthesize the key intervention components across case studies that contribute to clinical and collective empowerment outcomes. Applications The authors then offer recommendations to the social work profession for developing, implementing, and evaluating macro therapeutic interventions within clinical practice settings.
Offenders living with mental illness: How are they perceived by future professionals?
Authors: Weaver Cynthia , Lee Joohee , Choi Hwanseok , Johnson W Wesley , Clements Carl 
Published: February 2018

Summary This study investigates the attitudes of Criminal Justice and Social Work majors toward offenders living with mental illness. Multivariate regression analyses were used to explore differences in attitudes between student majors, controlling for factors such as age, race, and political ideology among a sample of 358 respondents. Participant attitudes and beliefs were assessed using the Attitudes toward Mentally Ill Offenders scale which consists of four factors: negative stereotypes, rehabilitation/compassion, community risk, and diminished responsibility. Findings Results of multivariate regression analyses indicated that Social Work students were less likely to have negative stereotypes toward offenders with mental illness and tended to be more supportive of their potential for rehabilitation. Applications It is important to understand attitudes toward and beliefs about adult offenders living with mental illness among future professionals likely to serve this population. Understanding these attitudes has the potential to both inform the higher education curricula as well as strengthen the implementation of evidence-supported practices and policies that require cross-systems collaboration.
LEARNS: A creative approach to analysing and representing narrative data incorporating photo-elicitation techniques
Authors: Marsh Wendy , Leamon Jen , Robinson Ann , Shawe Jill 
Published: February 2018

Background Diversity exists in how storied data gathered in narrative inquiry is analysed and represented, more so when there is a need to combine multiple data collection methods, including photographs. Aim This paper discusses the use of an analytical framework entitled LEARNS developed as part of a PhD study that has potential to fill this gap. Results The step-by-step framework presented in this paper was developed in order to analyse the data collected in this research study and gives understanding and insight into the experience of mothers whose babies are removed at birth. The LEARNS framework provides transparency and credibility; it also negates the need to restrict findings to broad themes via content/thematic analysis. Conclusions LEARNS could offer other researchers a reliable framework to use for future social science research.
Assessing Quality Control Strategies for HbA1c Measurements From a Patient Risk Perspective
Authors: Parvin Curtis A. , Baumann Nikola A. 
Published: February 2018

Background: Current laboratory risk management principles emphasize the importance of assessing laboratory quality control (QC) practices in terms of the risk of patient harm. Limited practical guidance or examples on how to do this are available. Methods: The patient risk model described in a published laboratory risk management guideline was combined with a recently reported approach to computing the predicted probability of patient harm to produce a risk management index (RMI) that compares the predicted probability of patient harm for a QC strategy to the acceptable probability of patient harm based on the expected severity of harm caused by an erroneously reported patient result. Results: Measurement procedure capability and quality control performance for two instruments measuring HbA1c in a laboratory were assessed by computing the RMI for each instrument individually and for the laboratory as a whole. Conclusions: This assessment provides a concrete example of how laboratory QC practices can be directly correlated to the risk of patient harm from erroneously reported patient results.
Evaluation of a New Noninvasive Glucose Monitoring Device by Means of Standardized Meal Experiments
Authors: Pfützner Andreas , Strobl Stephanie , Demircik Filiz , Redert Lisa , Pfützner Johannes , Pfützner Anke H. , Lier Alexander 
Published: February 2018

Background: Frequent blood glucose readings are the most cumbersome aspect of diabetes treatment for many patients. The noninvasive TensorTip Combo Glucometer (CoG) component employs dedicated mathematical algorithms to analyze the collected signal and to predict tissue glucose at the fingertip. This study presents the performance of the CoG (the invasive and the noninvasive components) during a standardized meal experiment. Methods: Each of the 36 participants (18 females and males each, age: 49 ± 18 years, 14 healthy subjects, 6 type 1 and 16 type 2 patients) received a device for conducting calibration at home. Thereafter, they ingested a standardized meal. Blood glucose was assessed from capillary blood samples by means of the (non)invasive device, YSI Stat 2300 plus, Contour Next at time points –30, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 150, and 180 minutes. Statistical analysis was performed by consensus error grid (CEG) and calculation of mean absolute relative difference (MARD) in comparison to YSI. Results: For the noninvasive (NI) CoG technology, 100% of the data pairs were found in CEG zones A (96.6%) and B (3.4%); 100% were seen in zone A for the invasive component and Contour Next. MARD was calculated to be 4.2% for Contour Next, 9.2% for the invasive component, and 14.4% for the NI component. Conclusions: After appropriate individual calibration of the NI technology, both the NI and the invasive CoG components reliably tracked tissue and blood glucose values, respectively. This may enable patients with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels frequently, reliably, and most of all pain-free.