bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Paediatric Spinal Arteriovenous Malformations: Angioarchitecture and Endovascular Treatment
Authors: Emery D.J. , Willinsky R.A. , Burrows P.E. , Armstrong D. , Montanera W. , Terbrugge K. 
Published: January 2017

This is a retrospective review of the clinical records and imaging of 14 children with spinal arteriovenous malformations referred to the neurointerventional service at our institution. The lesions are categorized by anatomic location into subpial (5 cases), epidural (3 cases), and paraspinal (6 cases). There were no dural arteriovenous fistulas in this group. The subpial lesions include both the intramedullary arteriovenous malformations (2 cases) and the perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas (3 cases). Two of the patients with perimedullary fistulas were first cousins and both had Rendu-Osler-Weber syndrome. The six paraspinal lesions were vertebral-vertebral fistulas with five of these located at the first cervical metamere. Eleven cases (79%) were arteriovenous fistulas and three cases (21%) were arteriovenous malformations with a nidus. There were nine (82%) high flow arteriovenous fistulae and two (18%) low flow arteriovenous fistulae. The ages range from seven months to 15 years, with a mean age of seven years. There were nine males and five females. Clinical presentations included: bruit alone (6 patients), progressive scoliosis (1 patient), pain (2 patients), neurologic deficit (4 patients) and one case of Cobb's syndrome. Management included: no treatment (1 patient), endovascular embolisation (10 patients) and surgery (3 patients). Of the patients who underwent endovascular treatment all were treated from the arterial side. Two patients were treated by N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) alone, two with NBCA and coils, one with balloons alone, three with balloons and coils and two with coils alone. In the endovascular treatment group, nine fistulae were completely obliterated (all high flow fistulae) and one patient had partial treatment (a spinal cord arteriovenous malformation). There were no complications from endovascular treatment.
Results and Problems in Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty for Internal Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Yoshimura S. , Kaku Y. , Ueda T. , Hayashi K. , Nishimura Y. , Andoh T. , Sakai N. 
Published: January 2017

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is currently performed as a therapeutic strategy for the management of the cervical carotid artery stenosis. In our clinic, PTA was performed successfully in all 24 patients initially. Restenosis was observed in 4 of 24 patients who received 3 to 6 month follow-up angiography. Repeated PTA was performed in 4 patients, 3 of whom were successfully treated, while severe wall dissection occurred in 1 patient. Furthermore, asymptomatic re-restenosis was noted in 1 of 4 patients who received repeated PTA. Dissection was noted in 5 of 28 procedures, which occurred more often in the patients with calcified or restenotic lesions. These results suggest that stenting or emergent surgery should be prepared in PTA of the carotid artery stenosis to avoid major complications, especially when the patients have calcified or restenotic lesions.
Initial Experiences of Carotid Stenting with Palmaz Stent
Authors: Sadato A. , Taki W. , Sakai N. , Aoki T. , Isaka F. , Oowaki H. , Sato T. , Kawanabe Y. , Hashimoto N. 
Published: January 2017

Results of cervical carotid stenting are reported. Twenty-nine lesions in 25 cases were treated by percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty combined with stent placement. All the lesions were successfully dilated. There was one embolic complication during the operation that caused deterioration of preoperative symptoms. Stent deformation causing more than 30% luminal narrowing occurred in one case. Instent restenosis with more than 50% luminal narrowing was seen in bilateral lesions in one case. These were satisfactory results as an initial experience, but further improvement in this technique is considered essential especially to avoid embolic complications.
Maintaining Validity: The Development of the Concept of Trust
Authors: Hupcey Judith E. 
Published: January 2017

Maintaining validity while moving a concept to a higher level of maturity is a dilemma that faces all qualitative researchers. In this section, research projects related to the concept of trust will be used to illustrate how new studies can be built on previous ones and then all studies integrated to develop a comprehensive model without compromising validity. The multiple stages of inquiry will be elucidated using the strategies of deconstruction, development of a skeletal framework, and scaffolding as described by in the opening section by Morse and Mitcham. The strategy of deconstruction was used in the initial project (Morse, 2000), which was a multidisciplinary concept analysis to determine the level of conceptual maturity. Once it was determined that trust was not well developed in the context of health care interactions, literature was used as data (Morse, 2000) to advance the concept further for the purposes of concept clarification. Although this began the process of identifying the structural features of the concept, these data left us with many questions, particularly since the trust literature was context bound and thus not easily applied to health care relationships. A skeletal framework was then developed to investigate trust in health care relationships using grounded theory (Hupcey, Penrod, & Morse, 2000). This project also advanced the concept further toward maturity, but some aspects still remained unclear. For example, risk as a precondition for trust as found during the concept clarification was not necessarily seen when trust was applied to health care relationships. The strategy of scaffolding was then used as data collection continued with other types of participants and in different contexts to clarify discrepancies in the data and verify the developing model of the concept of trust in health care interactions (Hupcey, Clark, Hutcheson, & Thompson, in press; Thompson, Hupcey, & Clark, in press). Here, I focus on the process of deconstruction, and briefly describe the development of a skeletal framework and the scaffolding process for this research program related to the concept of trust.
The effects of preoperative cardiology consultation prior to elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair on patient morbidity
Authors: Boniakowski Anna E , Davis Frank M , Phillips Amanda R , Robinson Adina B , Coleman Dawn M , Henke Peter K 
Published: January 2017

Objectives The relationship between preoperative medical consultations and postoperative complications has not been extensively studied. Thus, we investigated the impact of preoperative consultation on postoperative morbidity following elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. Methods A retrospective review was conducted on 469 patients (mean age 72 years, 20% female) who underwent elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair from June 2007 to July 2014. Data elements included detailed medical history, preoperative cardiology consultation, and postoperative complications. Primary outcomes included 30-day morbidity, consult-specific morbidity, and mortality. A bivariate probit regression model accounting for the endogeneity of binary preoperative medical consult and patient variability was estimated with a maximum likelihood function. Results Eighty patients had preoperative medical consults (85% cardiology); thus, our analysis focuses on the effect of cardiac-related preoperative consults. Hyperlipidemia, increased aneurysm size, and increased revised cardiac risk index increased likelihood of referral to cardiology preoperatively. Surgery type (endovascular versus open repair) was not significant in development of postoperative complications when controlling for revised cardiac risk index ( p = 0.295). After controlling for patient comorbidities, there was no difference in postoperative cardiac-related complications between patients who did and did not undergo cardiology consultation preoperatively ( p = 0.386). Conclusions When controlling for patient disease severity using revised cardiac risk index risk stratification, preoperative cardiology consultation is not associated with postoperative cardiac morbidity.
A Bayesian meta-analytic approach for safety signal detection in randomized clinical trials
Authors: Odani Motoi , Fukimbara Satoru , Sato Tosiya 
Published: January 2017

Background/Aim: Meta-analyses are frequently performed on adverse event data and are primarily used for improving statistical power to detect safety signals. However, in the evaluation of drug safety for New Drug Applications, simple pooling of adverse event data from multiple clinical trials is still commonly used. We sought to propose a new Bayesian hierarchical meta-analytic approach based on consideration of a hierarchical structure of reported individual adverse event data from multiple randomized clinical trials. Methods: To develop our meta-analysis model, we extended an existing three-stage Bayesian hierarchical model by including an additional stage of the clinical trial level in the hierarchical model; this generated a four-stage Bayesian hierarchical model. We applied the proposed Bayesian meta-analysis models to published adverse event data from three premarketing randomized clinical trials of tadalafil and to a simulation study motivated by the case example to evaluate the characteristics of three alternative models. Results: Comparison of the results from the Bayesian meta-analysis model with those from Fisher’s exact test after simple pooling showed that 6 out of 10 adverse events were the same within a top 10 ranking of individual adverse events with regard to association with treatment. However, more individual adverse events were detected in the Bayesian meta-analysis model than in Fisher’s exact test under the body system “Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders.” Moreover, comparison of the overall trend of estimates between the Bayesian model and the standard approach (odds ratios after simple pooling methods) revealed that the posterior median odds ratios for the Bayesian model for most adverse events shrank toward values for no association. Based on the simulation results, the Bayesian meta-analysis model could balance the false detection rate and power to a better extent than Fisher’s exact test. For example, when the threshold value of the posterior probability for signal detection was set to 0.8, the false detection rate was 41% and power was 88% in the Bayesian meta-analysis model, whereas the false detection rate was 56% and power was 86% in Fisher’s exact test. Limitations: Adverse events under the same body system were not necessarily positively related when we used “system organ class” and “preferred term” in the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities as a hierarchical structure of adverse events. For the Bayesian meta-analysis models to be effective, the validity of the hierarchical structure of adverse events and the grouping of adverse events are critical. Conclusion: Our proposed meta-analysis models considered trial effects to avoid confounding by trial and borrowed strength from both within and across body systems to obtain reasonable and stable estimates of an effect measure by considering a hierarchical structure of adverse events.
The value of computed tomography in detecting distal radioulnar joint instability after a distal radius fracture
Authors: van Leerdam R. H. , Wijffels M. M. E. , Reijnierse M. , Stomp W. , Krijnen P. , Schipper I. B. 
Published: January 2017

This study evaluated the value of computed tomography scans for the diagnosis of distal radioulnar joint instability. A total of 46 patients, conservatively treated for a unilateral distal radius fracture, were evaluated. Clinical instability was tested using the stress test and clunk test. A computed tomography scan of both wrists was performed in pronation and supination. Two independent observers reviewed the computed tomography scans using: the radioulnar line, subluxation ratio, epicentre and radioulnar ratio methods. Radiological distal radioulnar joint instability was assessed by comparing the measurements of the injured wrist with those of the contralateral uninjured wrists. A total of 22 patients had clinical instability of whom 12 suffered from pain in the injured wrist. Distal radioulnar joint instability was diagnosed on computed tomography in 29 patients. Reliability analysis between clinical and radiological evaluations showed at best moderate, but generally poor agreement. The diagnostic ability of computed tomography for identifying distal radioulnar joint instability seems limited. Level of evidence: IV
Fingolimod initiation in multiple sclerosis patients is associated with potential beneficial cardiovascular autonomic effects
Authors: Hilz Max J. , Wang Ruihao , de Rojas Leal Carmen , Liu Mao , Canavese Francesca , Roy Sankanika , Hösl Katharina M. , Winder Klemens , Lee De-Hyung , Linker Ralf A. 
Published: January 2017

Background: Fingolimod slows heart rate (HR) due to vagomimetic effects and might cause additional cardiovascular autonomic changes. While the time course of HR changes is well described, the extent and course of cardiovascular autonomic changes upon fingolimod initiation has not yet been evaluated. This study, therefore, intended to assess cardiovascular autonomic changes during the first 6 h after fingolimod initiation. Methods: In 21 patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), we recorded respiration (RESP), electrocardiographic RR interval (RRI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BPsys, BPdia) at rest, before and 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 h after fingolimod initiation. We calculated parameters of total autonomic modulation [RRI standard deviation (RRI-SD), RRI coefficient of variation (RRI-CV), RRI-total powers], mainly sympathetic cardiac modulation [RRI low frequency (LF) powers], sympathetic BP modulation (BPsys-LF powers), parasympathetic modulation [square root of the mean squared difference of successive RRIs (RMSSD), RRI high frequency (HF) powers], sympatho-vagal cardiac balance (RRI-LF/HF ratios), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). We compared parameters between the eight measurements [analysis of variance (ANOVA) or Friedman test with post-hoc analysis; significance: p < 0.05]. Results: After fingolimod initiation, RESP, BPsys, and BPsys-LF powers remained unchanged while RRIs, RRI-CV, RRI-SD, RRI-total powers, RRI-LF powers, RMSSD, RRI-HF powers, and BRS increased after 1 h and rose to peak values occurring after 5, 1, 2, 2, 1, 4, 4, and 4 h, respectively. After 3 h, BPdia had decreased significantly and was lowest after 5 h. RRI-LF/HF ratios decreased to a nadir after 4 h. Conclusions: The increases in parasympathetic and overall cardiac autonomic modulation and in BRS seen with fingolimod initiation are theoretically beneficial for the MS patient’s cardiovascular system. However, long-term studies must show whether these effects persist or are attenuated (e.g. due to S1P1 receptor down-regulation upon continued fingolimod therapy).
The First Use of Bolus Calculator With Speech Analyzer
Authors: Mazurczak Karolina , Pańkowska Ewa , Ładyżyński Piotr , Foltyński Piotr 
Published: January 2017

Background: The insulin therapy in type 1 diabetes involves a wide array of restrictions in patients and their families. One of those is a difficulty in estimation of the insulin dose programmed for each meal. The purpose of the study is an assessment of functionalities related to the expert system VoiceDiab—a calculator of meal boluses. Methods: The sample group composed of 54 patients, aged 3-52, all suffering from type 1 diabetes, treated with the insulin pump, taking part in the clinics RCT (for adults and a pediatrician), with a randomized allocation to a surveyed group and cross-over. The research methodology was based upon questionnaires and open-ended questions. Results: 40% of respondents recognized the application’s usefulness as high (18 of 47), giving it 10 points, and easy to use (70%). Disadvantages of this app comprised lack of some products in the application database (n = 23), troubles with the mobile range ( n = 4), and no option of a manual data input for processing purposes (n = 23). Advantages, that have been mentioned the most frequently included facilitation of measurements (n = 7), enhanced life quality of the patient (n = 8), and a guarantee of prompt and thorough calculations (n = 22). Of the surveyed individuals, 50% reached their diet, while 100% gave a top grade to the application, claiming it had contributed to a more efficient metabolic control. Conclusion: The pilot scheme of the expert system VoiceDiab has potential to become an application, facilitating dosing of the meal insulin and improving the comfort and safety of insulin administering. However, it needs to be modified, as mentioned by the users who have tested the system.
Health informatics in UK Medical Education: an online survey of current practice
Authors: Walpole Sarah , Taylor Paul , Banerjee Amitava 
Published: January 2017

Objective Health informatics has growing importance in clinical practice with successive General Medical Council recommendations. However, prior data suggest that undergraduate medical education largely neglects this area. An up-to-date, UK-wide view of health informatics training in medical schools is required. Design An online survey was developed using current guidance and recommendations of UK professional bodies. Participants and Setting Senior academic staff and health informatics educators at all 34 UK medical schools were invited to complete the survey. Main outcome measures Quantitative and qualitative data regarding health informatics in the undergraduate medical curriculum. Results A total of 26/34 (76%) of UK medical schools responded and 23 provided full information. Aspects most frequently mentioned were literature searching and research governance. Seventeen per cent of respondents felt there was little or no HI training, although clinical record keeping was addressed by all medical schools. Pedagogies used to teach health informatics were self-directed learning (78%) to lecture based (70%), seminars (70%), informal teaching in clinical settings (57%) and problem-based learning (22%). Health informatics was usually integrated vertically and horizontally across the curriculum (76%). Assessment and updates of the health informatics curriculum are limited (57 and 41%, respectively). Thirty-two per cent of respondents reported a low level of confidence among students to use health informatics as doctors. In the most up-to-date survey of health informatics teaching in UK medical schools, there are three major findings. First, the proportion of health informatics in the medical undergraduate curriculum is low. Second, there was variation in content, pedagogy and timing across medical schools. Third, health informatics is rarely assessed and course content is not regularly updated. Conclusions There is a role for national guidelines and further research in this area of the curriculum which is rapidly gaining in prominence.
Unexpected Internalization of a Pulmonary Artery Band in a Porcine Model of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Jalal Zakaria , Roubertie François , Fournier Emmanuelle , Dubes Virginie , Benoist David , Naulin Jerome , Delmond Samantha , Durand Marlène , Haissaguerre Michel , Bernus Olivier , Thambo Jean-Benoit 
Published: January 2017

Background: We report our experience of an unexpected complication of internalization of a pulmonary artery (PA) band in the vascular lumen, which occurred in a chronic porcine model of repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Methods: Twelve piglets were divided into 3 groups: (1) TOF model animals (PA band plus pulmonary valvotomy, n = 4), (2) pulmonary insufficiency (PI) animals (pulmonary valvotomy, n = 4), and (3) control animals (n = 4). A nonabsorbable, coated braided polyester tape was used to perform the main pulmonary artery banding. Echocardiography was performed 4 months postoperatively. After each animal was euthanized, PA histological analysis was performed in animals with band internalization. Results: Significant postsurgical pulmonary regurgitation and right ventricular enlargement were present in the TOF and PI, compared with control animals, whereas no significant pulmonary stenosis was observed in TOF animals when compared with PI group. Postmortem examination of all TOF animals revealed the constricting band to be intact but partially internalized into the PA lumen, allowing blood flow around the stenosis. Histological sections of the banded PA in the area of internalization showed a significant disorganization of the medial layer, with significant scarring and fibrotic reaction surrounding the outside of the band and the presence of inflammatory cells suggesting a significant inflammatory response during band internalization. Conclusions: Band internalization may occur after PA banding using a nonabsorbable, coated braided polyester tape in a chronic porcine model of repaired TOF. This unusual complication was likely due to the type of material used for banding.
The Hemodynamic Effects and Safety of Repetitive Levosimendan Infusions on Children With Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Suominen Pertti , Mattila Niklas , Nyblom Olle , Rautiainen Paula , Turanlahti Maila , Rahkonen Otto 
Published: January 2017

Background: Limited treatment options are available for children with decompensated dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), while they wait for either functional recovery or heart transplantation. We evaluated the safety of repetitive levosimendan infusions and short-term and long-term impacts of the therapy in this patient population. Methods: Eighty-one repetitive levosimendan infusions administered to 20 patients with DCM at severe or end stage of the disease in the pediatric intensive care unit were analyzed retrospectively. Echocardiographic assessments were reinterpreted by two experienced pediatric cardiologists. The mean follow-up time after therapy was 9.8 ± 3.3 years. Results: The median age of the patients at the time of the first levosimendan infusion was 1.1 years (interquartile range: 0.3-2.1). Transient hypotension was reported in 17.3% of the infusions. No significant changes in the mean ejection fraction were detected after repetitive levosimendan infusion (31.6 ± 12.5 vs 33.1 ± 12.4; P = .39) or for the laboratory parameters for the group as a whole. In 7 (35%) of 20 patients, the mean ejection fraction improved from 20% ± 12% to 35% ± 11% ( P = .003). The administration of concomitant medications and time may have contributed to the healing process of these patients. Two patients were removed from the transplantation waiting-list owing to clinical recovery after six months of therapy. The long-term survival rate was 70% (n = 14 of 20). Conclusions: Repetitive levosimendan infusions in children with DCM appeared to be hemodynamically well tolerated without severe adverse events. Although one-third of the children had a good response to repetitive levosimendan infusions, no overall significant improvement in ventricular performance could be found in this heterogenous DCM patient population, which included the patients in end-stage heart failure.