bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Self-report measure as a useful tool to identify prenatal substance use and predict adverse birth outcomes
Authors: Washio Yukiko , Goldstein Neal D , Butler Richard , Rogers Stephanie , Paul David A , Terplan Mishka , Hoffman Matthew K 
Published: March 2018

Objectives The purpose of the current study was to examine whether a self-report measure identifies prenatal substance use and predicts resulting adverse birth outcomes in a large cohort using electronic medical records. Methods Pregnant patients who were admitted between 2014 and 2015 at Christiana Care Health System and delivered singleton birth were included in the analyses ( N = 11,020). Participant demographic information, pregnancy comorbidities, self-reported substance use, and birth outcomes were retrieved from electronic medical records. Detailed descriptive analyses of prenatal substance use were conducted, and logistic models were evaluated for the associations between substance use and each birth outcome (preterm birth, low birth weight, neonatal intensive care unit admission). Results The average maternal age was 30 years (standard deviation: 6), 37% receiving Medicaid. Over 58% were White, 26% were Black, and 13% were Hispanic. Cigarette smoking only showed the highest prevalence among substance users (53%). Self-reported cigarette smoking and illicit drug use other than marijuana significantly predicted all three adverse birth outcomes (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] range: 1.33 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.08–1.64)–3.09 (95% CI: 2.03–4.67)). Nonresponders to the cigarette smoking question also significantly predicted two adverse birth outcomes of preterm birth delivery (AOR: 4.16; 95% CI: 1.27–14.71) and having low birth weight babies (AOR: 3.50; 95% CI: 1.04–12.61). Conclusions/Importance: Prenatal cigarette smoking only had the highest prevalence, and co-use with illicit drugs was also high, leading to significant associations with adverse birth outcomes. The study findings indicate that the self-report measurement is a useful tool to identify prenatal substance use and predict resulting adverse birth outcomes.
Aromatase inhibitors are associated with a higher fracture risk than tamoxifen: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tseng Olivia L. , Spinelli John J. , Gotay Carolyn C. , Ho Wan Y. , McBride Mary L. , Dawes Martin G. 
Published: March 2018

Background: In this paper, our aim was to systematically evaluate published evidence of bone fracture risk associated with tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors in women aged 65 and under, and diagnosed with nonmetastatic breast cancer. Methods: We comprehensively searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CINAHL databases from January 1997 through May 2015, and reference lists of the selected articles to identify English-language randomized controlled trials and cohort studies of fracture risk. Two independent reviewers screened articles and assessed methodological quality using Risk of Bias assessment for randomized controlled trials and the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale for cohort studies. Fracture risk was estimated as pooled risk ratios using a random-effects model and inverse variance method. Results: Of 1926 identified articles, 21 independent studies fulfilled our selection criteria. Similar fracture risk was observed in women treated and not treated with tamoxifen [pooled risk ratio (RR) 0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84–1.07]. A 35% (95% CI 1.21–1.51) higher fracture risk was observed in the aromatase inhibitor group compared with the tamoxifen group. A 17% (95% CI 1.07–1.28) higher fracture risk was observed in the aromatase inhibitor group than the no aromatase inhibitor group. Compared with the tamoxifen group, aromatase inhibitor-associated fracture risk increased by 33% (pooled RR 1.33; 95% CI 1.21–1.47) during the tamoxifen/aromatase inhibitor treatment period, but did not increase (pooled RR 0.99; 95% CI 0.72–1.37) during the post-tamoxifen/aromatase inhibitor treatment period. Conclusions: Fracture risk is significantly higher in women treated with aromatase inhibitors, especially during the treatment period. Tamoxifen is not associated with lower fracture risk while tamoxifen could potentially preserve bone mass. Better osteoporosis management programs, especially during the treatment period, are needed for this group of women.
A Bayesian network meta-analysis of PCSK9 inhibitors, statins and ezetimibe with or without statins for cardiovascular outcomes
Authors: Khan Safi U , Talluri Swapna , Riaz Haris , Rahman Hammad , Nasir Fahad , Bin Riaz Irbaz , Sattur Sudhakar , Ahmed Haitham , Kaluski Edo , Krasuski Richard 
Published: March 2018

Background The comparative effects of statins, ezetimibe with or without statins and proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors remain unassessed. Design Bayesian network meta-analysis was conducted to compare treatment groups. Methods Thirty-nine randomized controlled trials were selected using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL (inception – September 2017). Results In network meta-analysis of 189,116 patients, PCSK9 inhibitors were ranked as the best treatment for prevention of major adverse cardiovascular events (Surface Under Cumulative Ranking Curve (SUCRA), 85%), myocardial infarction (SUCRA, 84%) and stroke (SUCRA, 80%). PCSK9 inhibitors reduced the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events compared with ezetimibe + statin (odds ratio (OR): 0.72; 95% credible interval (CrI), 0.55–0.95; Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria: moderate), statin (OR: 0.78; 95% CrI: 0.62–0.97; GRADE: moderate) and placebo (OR: 0.63; 95% CrI: 0.49–0.79; GRADE: high). The PCSK9 inhibitors were consistently superior to groups for major adverse cardiovascular event reduction in secondary prevention trials (SUCRA, 95%). Statins had the highest probability of having lowest rates of all-cause mortality (SUCRA, 82%) and cardiovascular mortality (SUCRA, 84%). Compared with placebo, statins reduced the risk of all-cause mortality (OR: 0.88; 95% CrI: 0.83–0.94; GRADE: moderate) and cardiovascular mortality (OR: 0.84; 95% CrI: 0.77–0.90; GRADE: high). For cardiovascular mortality, PCSK9 inhibitors were ranked as the second best treatment (SUCRA, 78%) followed by ezetimibe + statin (SUCRA, 50%). Conclusion PCSK9 inhibitors were ranked as the most effective treatment for reducing major adverse cardiovascular events, myocardial infarction and stroke, without having major safety concerns. Statins were ranked as the most effective therapy for reducing mortality.
Assessing patient safety in Canadian ambulatory surgery facilities: A national survey
Authors: Ahmad Jamil , Ho Olivia A , Carman Wayne W , Thoma Achilles , Lalonde Donald H , Lista Frank 
Published: March 2018

Background There has been increased interest regarding patient safety and standards of care in Canadian ambulatory surgery facilities where surgical procedures are performed. The Canadian Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (CAAASF) is a national organization formed to establish and maintain standards to ensure that surgical procedures conducted outside of public hospitals are performed safely. Objective To determine how many procedures are performed annually at CAAASF member sites, and to examine complication rates and several key patient safety practices. Methods All 69 facilities accredited by the CAAASF were surveyed. The survey focused on procedural data, complication rates and patient safety interventions. Results In 2010, 40,240 estimated procedures were performed. A total of 263 (0.007%) complications were reported. Sixteen (0.0004%) patients required reoperations in hospital and 19 (0.0004%) patients required transfer to hospital on the day of surgery. There were only two mortalities within 30 days of surgery reported in the past five years. With regard to patient safety practices, 93% used antimicrobial prophylaxis, 100% used strategies to maintain normothermia and 82% used measures for venous thromboembolism prevention. Conclusion The present study is the first to report on the Canadian experience in ambulatory surgery facilities and provides insight into current practices at these facilities. Appropriate accreditation of ambulatory surgery facilities, well-established patient safety-related standards of care, careful patient selection and procedures performed by qualified health care professionals with appropriate certification practicing within the scope of their practice form the basis for safe and effective ambulatory surgery.
Long-term outcomes of major upper extremity replantations
Authors: Ng Wendy Ky , Kaur Manraj Nirmal , Thoma Achilleas 
Published: March 2018

Background Long-term outcomes of major upper extremity replantations are infrequently reported. It is believed that replantation is indicated for amputations at all levels in children and for all distal amputations in adults. Replantations of arm or proximal forearm amputations in adults are controversial. Objective To evaluate the results of major upper extremity replantations, defined as those that are transmetacarpal, through the wrist, forearm, elbow or arm. Methods A review of these types of replantations performed at the authors' institution from 2002 to 2012 was conducted. Patients' strength, range of motion and two-point discrimination were assessed. Patients completed the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), the Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS). Results Seventeen patients underwent major upper extremity replantation surgery. The majority (16 of 17 [94%]) of the included patients were male. Of 17 patients, 13 (76.5%) required reoperations. The mean (± SD) DASH score of seven patients who consented to completing all questionnaires was 75.4±14.2 of 100 (range 59.2 to 91.1). On the MHQ, the mean score for affected hand function was 16% compared with 84% in the unaffected hand. Patients generally demonstrated at least mild levels of anxiety and depression on the HADS. Discussion The results suggest that major upper extremity injuries and replantations have a significant impact on patients' long-term hand function, and produce long-term anxiety and depressive symptoms.
Reconstruction of post-traumatic full-thickness defects of the upper one-third of the auricle
Authors: Helal Hesham Aly , Mahmoud Nada Abdel Sattar , Abd-Al-Aziz Abd-Al-Aziz Hanafy 
Published: March 2018

Background Reconstruction of partial ear defects represents a difficult challenge to the plastic surgeon due to the delicate and intricate architecture of the chondrocutaneous sandwich of the external ear. Methods Fourteen patients with acute or previous traumatic subtotal loss of the upper one-third of the auricle were treated with autologous contralateral conchal cartilage graft and superficial temporoparietal fascia flaps. Results The symmetry of the reconstructed ears was satisfactory and the cosmetic appearance was acceptable for 13 patients. Minor hematoma at the conchal cartilage graft donor site occurred in one (7.1%) patient and marginal loss of temporoparietal flap in another (7.1%). Revision surgery was required for widening of the scar and obscuring of the upper pole contour in one (7.1%) patient. No additional complications were encountered. Conclusion The authors recommend using this combined technique for reconstruction of full-thickness auricular defects.
A review of hydrofluoric acid burn management
Authors: Mckee Daniel , Thoma Achilleas , Bailey Kristy , Fish Joel 
Published: March 2018

Hydrofluoric acid (HF) causes a unique chemical burn. Much of the current treatment knowledge of HF burns is derived from case reports, small case series, animal studies and anecdotal evidence. The management can be challenging because clinical presentation and severity of these burns vary widely. Plastic surgeons managing burn patients must have a basic understanding of the pathophysiology, the range of severity in presentation and the current treatment options available for HF burns. The present article reviews the current understanding of the pathophysiology and systemic effects associated with severe HF burns. Furthermore, it distinguishes between minor and life-threatening HF burns and describes several of the basic techniques that are available to treat patients with HF burns.
Trends in postcoronary artery bypass graft sternal wound dehiscence in a provincial population
Authors: Doherty Christopher , Nickerson Duncan , Southern Danielle A , Kieser Teresa , Appoo Jehangir , Dawes Jeffery , De Souza Michael A , Harrop Alan R , Rabi Doreen 
Published: March 2018

Background It appears that the medical profile of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has changed. The impact of this demographic shift on CABG outcomes, such as sternal wound dehiscence, is unclear. Objectives To quantify the incidence and trends of sternal wound dehiscence, quantify the demographic shift of those undergoing CABG and identify patient factors predictive of disease. Methods A prospective analysis was performed on a historical cohort of consecutive patients who underwent CABG (without valve replacement) in Alberta between April 1, 2002 and November 30, 2009. The incidence and trends of sternal wound dehiscence were determined. In addition, the trend of the mean Charlson index score and European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) (capturing patient comorbidities) was analyzed. Univariable analysis and multivariable models were performed to determine factors predictive of wound dehiscence. Results A total of 5815 patients underwent CABG during the study period. The incidence proportion of sternal wound dehiscence in Alberta was 1.86% and the incidence rate was 1.98 cases per 100 person-years. Although both the EuroSCORE and Charlson scores significantly increased over the study period, the incidence of sternal wound dehiscence did not change significantly. Factors predictive of sternal wound dehiscence were diabetes (OR 2.97 [95% CI 1.73 to 5.10]), obesity (OR 1.55 [95% CI 1.05 to 2.27]) and female sex (OR 1.90 [95% CI 1.26 to 2.87]). Conclusions The incidence proportion of sternal wound dehiscence in Alberta was comparable with the incidence previously published in the literature. While patients undergoing CABG had worsening medical profiles, the incidence of sternal wound dehiscence did not appear to be increasing significantly.
Follicular unit transplantation for the treatment of secondary cicatricial alopecia
Authors: Shao Huawei , Hang HU , Yunyun Jin , Hongfei Jiang , Chunmao Han , Zhang Jufang , Shen Haiyan , Zhu Fei , Jia Ming , Wang Yuyan , Guo Xiaobo 
Published: March 2018

Background Cicatricial alopecia encompasses a diverse group of disorders characterized by the permanent destruction of hair follicles and irreversible hair loss. Follicular unit transplantation was developed in 1994. However, large-scale clinical trials are necessary to study follicular unit transplantation for treating Chinese cicatricial alopecia patients. Objective To investigate the efficacy of follicular unit transplantation in the treatment of cicatricial alopecia in Chinese patients. Methods Patients with cicatricial alopecia were enrolled. The designated recipient area, follicular unit density of the donor site, transplanted density and operative time were recorded. Postoperative follow-up was conducted within six to 24 months; the density of hair in the recipient area was calculated using a Folliscope (Hansderma Co, USA). Patients' self-reported satisfaction and long-term complications were recorded. Results Thirty-seven patients were enrolled. Cicatricial alopecia was caused by burns (n=8), trauma (n=21) and plastic surgery (cleft lip and palate repair [n=8]). Burn patients had a significantly larger bald area than the other patients (P<0.01). The operative time was significantly correlated with recipient area. The longest operation was 14.5 h; the largest transplanted area was 96 cm2. At follow-up, the surviving follicular unit density/transplanted follicular unit density rate was 64.29% to 95.00% (mean 78.96%); the surviving/transplanted (S/T) area was 100% for 30 patients, 90% to 100% for five patients and <90% for two patients. The lowest S/T area was 82.81%. The S/T index was significantly and inversely correlated with operative time. Regarding long-term complications, two patients had postoperative epidermoid cysts that healed with local treatment. Conclusion Follicular unit transplantation is an effective method for treating cicatricial alopecia. It is relatively safe and yields satisfactory postoperative results. Extending the results of the present study to Chinese clinical practice is warranted.
Evaluating the effect of polytetrafluoroethylene and extractum cepae-heparin-allantoin gel in peripheral nerve injuries in a rat model
Authors: Kahraman Ahmet , Kahveci Ramazan 
Published: March 2018

Background Peripheral nerves can be injured by congenital, mechanical, thermal or chemical causes. Peripheral nerve injuries are increasing in frequency, particularly in countries that are becoming more industrialized. Nerve and extremity injuries result in work loss and high treatment costs, and can lead to separation of patients from their social environment. Failure of nerve repair causes muscle functional losses, sensory losses and painful neuropathies. Objectives To compare the effects of condensed polytetrafluoroethylene (cPTFE) and cPTFE-extractum cepae-heparin-allantoin (cPTFE-EHA) gel compound on nerve and functional recovery, and the prevention of adhesion and scar tissue formation after total peripheral nerve injury repaired by primary suture in a rat model. Results cPTFE alone and cPTFE-EHA gel was found to provide better functional recovery and nerve regeneration compared with primary repair only. In the macroscopic evaluation, the cPTFE-EHA gel was found to have no negative effect on wound healing and, despite increasing extraneural scar tissue and adhesions, it had no negative effect on nerve function; in addition, it facilitated functional recovery. Conclusions Compared with the cPTFE application alone, the application of perineural cPTFE-EHA gel during peripheral nerve surgery appeared to provide better functional recovery without causing any significant changes in epineural and extraneural scar tissue formation.
Isolated limb infusion: Efficacy, toxicity and an evolution in the management of in-transit melanoma
Authors: Chin-Lenn Laura , Temple-Oberle Claire , Mckinnon J Gregory 
Published: March 2018

Background Isolated limb infusion (ILI) delivers low-flow chemotherapy via percutaneous catheters to treat melanoma in-transit metastases. Objective To describe the experience of two regional referral centres with ILI. Methods A retrospective review of patients who underwent ILI between 2002 and 2012 was performed. Outcomes were measured using the WHO criteria for response, the Wieberdink toxicity score and long-term limb function using the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS). Results Fifty-two patients (mean age 66 years [range 27 to 90 years], female sex 65%, and lower [treated] limb in 86%) with 54 ILIs were reviewed. Wieberdink toxicity score was ≥3 in 21 (39%) procedures. Median follow-up was 18 months (range one to 117 months). Initial complete response (CR) was 29%, partial response 27%, stable disease 18% and progressive disease 27%. Predictors of better initial response were low disease burden and previous treatment. One or more treatments after ILI were common (65%). At 12 months, 19% of ILI patients had died from melanoma but 44% of surviving patients experienced limb CR. At 24 months, 57% of surviving patients experienced limb CR. The quality of life in the surviving, contactable patients according to the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score was 89%. Conclusion Even if ILI does not result in CR for melanoma intransit metastases. it may slow disease progression as a single therapy, but more frequently in combination with other modalities.
Accuracy of medical models made by consumer-grade fused deposition modelling printers
Authors: Petropolis Christian , Kozan Daniel , Sigurdson Leif 
Published: March 2018

Background Additive manufacturing using fused deposition modelling (FDM) has become widely available with the development of consumer-grade three-dimensional printers. To be useful in maxillofacial surgery, models created by these printers must accurately reproduce the craniofacial skeleton. Objective To determine the accuracy of consumer-grade FDM printers in the production of medical models compared with industrial selective laser sintering (SLS) printers. Methods Computed tomography images of a dry skull were manipulated using OsiriX (OsiriX, Switzerland) and ZBrush (Pixologic, USA) software. Models were fabricated using a consumer-grade FDM printer at 100 μm, 250 μm and 500 μm layer heights and an industrial SLS printer. Seven linear measurements were made on the models and compared with the corresponding dry skull measurements using an electronic caliper. Results A dimensional error of 0.30% was observed for the SLS models and 0.44%, 0.52% and 1.1% for the 100 μm, 250 μm and 500 μm FDM models, respectively. Conclusion Consumer-grade FDM printers can produce medical models with sufficient dimensional accuracy for use in maxillofacial surgery. With this technology, surgeons can independently produce low-cost maxillofacial models in an office setting.
A useful flap combination in wide and complex defect reconstruction of the medial canthal region: Glabellar rotation and nasolabial V-Y advancement flaps
Authors: Kesiktas Erol , Eser Cengiz , Gencel Eyüphan , Aslaner Emrah Efe 
Published: March 2018

Background Reconstruction of medial canthal defects after tumour excision is difficult owing to the thin skin of the region and the concavity of the anatomical landmarks, which enclose complex structures such as the medial canthal ligament and the lacrimal system. Local reconstruction methods for this region include secondary healing, full-thickness skin grafts, and skin flaps from the frontal, transnasal, glabellar and upper eyelid regions. Objective To demonstrate a useful combination of two local flaps in wide defects of the medial canthal region. Methods Between 1998 and 2012, a combination of glabellar rotation and nasolabial V-Y advancement flaps were used in 11 patients with wide complex defects after excision, including periosteum, of invasive basal cell carcinoma. Results All patients were tumour free and underwent functional and aesthetic reconstruction of the medial canthal region. There were no major complications, and no relapses were observed. Conclusion This technique achieves good match in colour and texture, and has satisfactory results both aesthetically and functionally. In addition, donor area morbidity is minimal and surgical technique is simple.