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BACKGROUND: In the treatment of resectable hepatoblastoma (HB), it has not been established whether upfront surgery (UF) at diagnosis or neoadjuvant chemotherapy and delayed surgery (DL) is preferred. We compared patients with localized HB who underwent either UF, or DL after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in the Childrens Hepatic tumors International Collaboration (CHIC) database of 1605 cases enrolled in eight multicenter hepatoblastoma trials between 1988 and 2010. METHODS: Among the 512 resectable HB patients who had PRETEXT (PRETreament EXTent of disease) I or II unruptured tumors at diagnosis without extrahepatic invasion, distant metastases, or massive vascular invasion, 172 underwent UF and 340 underwent DL. The primary outcomes were event-free and overall survivals after start of treatment in these two groups. Survival analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Maier analysis with long-rank tests and multivariable Cox regression models. FINDINGS: Complete resection rates were comparable (93.6% in UF and 89.7% in DL). The total cycles of chemotherapy of DL (median:6) were significantly more than those of UF (median:4) (P

Purpose: Numerous studies report on the outcome performance of posterior composite restorations. However, there are fewer studies providing data for anterior restorations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome performance of anterior permanent restorations by analyzing a large dataset from a German national health insurance company. Materials and Methods: Routine claims data from a major German national health insurance company were assessed. Fee codes were used for tracing restoration careers on a day-count basis. The treatment was defined as a placed restoration (Class III and IV) on a mesial or distal tooth surface, irrespective of the extension. The restorations were placed between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2013. Statistical analyses were conducted using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine cumulative 4-year survival rates. The primary outcome was re-intervention on the same surface. Secondary outcomes were crowning and extraction which were analyzed separately. Results: A total of 2,417,791 restorations involving mesial surfaces and a number of 2,409,031 restorations involving distal surfaces were observed. At 4 years, the cumulative survival rates concerning the primary outcome "re-intervention" were 79.9% for mesial and 80.9% for distal restorations. The respective annual failure rates (AFR) were 5.5% and 5.2%. Fouryear survival rates for the secondary outcome "crown" were 93.8% for mesial and 94.1% for distal anterior restorations. The respective AFRs were 1.6% and 1.5%. For the secondary outcome "extraction," the respective rates were 94.6% for mesial and 93.9% for distal restorations. The respective AFRs were 1.4% and 1.6%. Conclusion: The performance of permanent anterior restorations which were placed in general dental practices in Germany can be rated as acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Prognosis and management of patients with intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) is challenging. We investigated whether stroke volume may be used to identify the subset of this population at increased risk of clinical deterioration or PE-related death. Our secondary objective was to compare echocardiographic measurements of patients who received escalated interventions vs anticoagulation monotherapy.Methods: We selected patients with intermediate-risk PE, who had comprehensive echocardiography within 18 hours of PE diagnosis and before any escalated interventions, from a PE registry populated by 11 emergency departments. Echocardiographers measured right ventricle (RV) size, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), and stroke volume (SV) using velocity time integral (VTI) by left ventricular (LV) outflow tract Doppler or two-dimensional method of discs (MOD). The primary outcome was a composite of PE-related death, cardiac arrest, catecholamine administration for sustained hypotension, or emergency respiratory intervention during the index hospitalization. Secondary outcome was escalated intervention with reperfusion or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation therapy.Results: Of 370 intermediate-risk PE patients (mean age 64.0 ± 15.5 years, 38.1% male), 39 (10.5%) had the primary outcome. These 39 patients had lower mean SV regardless of measurement method than those without the primary outcome: SV MOD 36.2 vs 49.9 milliliters (mL), P < 0.001; SV Doppler 41.7 vs 57.2 mL, P = 0.003; VTI 13.6 vs 17.9 centimeters [cm], P = 0.003. Patients with primary outcome also had lower mean TAPSE than those without (1.54 vs 1.81 cm, P = 0.003). Multivariable models, selecting SV as predictor, had area under the receiver operating curve of 0.8 and Brier score 0.08. The best echocardiographic predictor of our primary outcome was SV MOD (odds ratio 0.72 [0.53, 0.94], P = 0.02). Patients who received escalated interventions had significantly lower SV or surrogate measurements, greater RV dilatation, and lower RV systolic function than patients who received anticoagulation monotherapy.Conclusion: Low stroke volume was a predictor of clinical deterioration and PE-related death. Low SV may be used to identify a subset of intermediate-risk PE patients, who are higher risk (intermediate-high risk), and for whom escalated interventions should be considered.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DbCM) is characterized by asymptomatic stage B heart failure (SBHF) caused by diabetes-related metabolic alterations. DbCM is associated with an increased risk of progression to overt heart failure (HF). The prevalence of DbCM in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is not well established. This study aims to determine prevalence of DbCM in adult T2D patients in real-world clinical practice. METHODS: Retrospective multi-step review of electronic medical records of patients with the diagnosis of T2D who had echocardiogram at UC San Diego Medical Center (UCSD) within 2010-2019 was conducted to identify T2D patients with SBHF. We defined pure DbCM when SBHF is associated solely with T2D and mixed SBHF when other medical conditions can contribute to SBHF. Pure DbCM was diagnosed in T2D patients with echocardiographic demonstration of SBHF defined as left atrial (LA) enlargement (LAE), as evidenced by LA volume index ≥ 34 mL/m2, in the presence of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥ 45%, while excluding overt HF and comorbidities that can contribute to SBHF. RESULTS: Of 778,314 UCSD patients in 2010-2019, 45,600 (5.9%) had T2D diagnosis. In this group, 15,182 T2D patients (33.3%) had echocardiogram and, among them, 13,680 (90.1%) had LVEF ≥ 45%. Out of 13,680 patients, 4,790 patients had LAE. Of them, 1,070 patients were excluded due to incomplete data and/or a lack of confirmed T2D according to the American Diabetes Association recommendations. Thus, 3,720 T2D patients with LVEF ≥ 45% and LAE were identified, regardless of HF symptoms. In this group, 1,604 patients (43.1%) had overt HF and were excluded. Thus, 2,116 T2D patients (56.9% of T2D patients with LVEF ≥ 45% and LAE) with asymptomatic SBHF were identified. Out of them, 1,773 patients (83.8%) were diagnosed with mixed SBHF due to comorbidities such as hypertension (58%), coronary artery disease (36%), and valvular heart disease (17%). Finally, 343 patients met the diagnostic criteria of pure DbCM, which represents 16.2% of T2D patients with SBHF, i.e., at least 2.9% of the entire T2D population in this study. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings provide insights into prevalence of DbCM in real-world clinical practice and indicate that DbCM affects a significant portion of T2D patients.

BACKGROUND: Meniscal root tears can lead to early knee osteoarthritis and pain. This study aimed (1) to compare clinical and radiological outcomes between patients who underwent arthroscopic meniscal root repair after meniscal root tears and those who received non-surgical treatment, and (2) to identify whether baseline MRI findings could be potential predictors for future treatment strategies. METHODS: Patients with meniscal root tears were identified from our picture archiving and communication system from 2016 to 2020. Two radiologists reviewed radiographs and MRI studies using Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) grading and a modified Whole Organ MRI Scoring (WORMS) at baseline and follow-up. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) of follow-up radiographs and MRI studies were 134 (44-443) days and 502 (260-1176) days, respectively. MR images were assessed for root tear-related findings. Pain scores using visual analogue scale (VAS) and management strategies (non-surgical vs. arthroscopic root repair) were also collected. Chi-squared tests and independent t-tests were used to assess differences regarding clinical and imaging variables between treatment groups. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between baseline MRI findings and each future treatment. RESULTS: Ninety patients were included. VAS pain scores were significantly (p

BACKGROUND: Leveraging the Accelerating Medicines Partnership (AMP) Lupus Nephritis (LN) dataset, we evaluated longitudinal patterns, rates, and predictors of response to standard-of-care therapy in patients with lupus nephritis. METHODS: Patients from US academic medical centers with class III, IV, and/or V LN and a baseline urine protein/creatinine (UPCR) ratio ≥ 1.0 (n = 180) were eligible for this analysis. Complete response (CR) required the following: (1) UPCR  50% reduction in UPCR; (2) normal serum creatinine or, if abnormal, ≤ 125% of baseline; and (3) prednisone dose ≤ 15 mg/day. RESULTS: Response rates to the standard of care at week 52 were CR = 22.2%; PR = 21.7%; non-responder (NR) = 41.7%, and not determined (ND) = 14.4%. Only 8/180 (4.4%) patients had a week 12 CR sustained through week 52. Eighteen (10%) patients attained a week 12 PR or CR and sustained their responses through week 52 and 47 (26.1%) patients achieved sustained PR or CR at weeks 26 and 52. Week 52 CR or PR attainment was associated with baseline UPCR > 3 (ORadj = 3.71 [95%CI = 1.34-10.24]; p = 0.012), > 25% decrease in UPCR from baseline to week 12 (ORadj = 2.61 [95%CI = 1.07-6.41]; p = 0.036), lower chronicity index (ORadj = 1.33 per unit decrease [95%CI = 1.10-1.62]; p = 0.003), and positive anti-dsDNA antibody (ORadj = 2.61 [95%CI = 0.93-7.33]; p = 0.069). CONCLUSIONS: CR and PR rates at week 52 were consistent with the standard-of-care response rates observed in prospective registrational LN trials. Low sustained response rates underscore the need for more efficacious therapies and highlight how critically important it is to understand the molecular pathways associated with response and non-response.

We assessed the association of prescription data with clinical manifestations and polygenic risk scores (PRS) in patients with bipolar I disorder. We enrolled 1471 individuals with BID and divided them into several groups according to treatment options and clinical manifestations. BD-PRS of each patient was calculated using the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium data. Data on single nucleotide polymorphisms, clinical manifestations, and prescriptions were extracted from BiGS. Chronicity, suicidality, substance misuse, mixed symptoms, and deterioration of life functioning were significantly more severe in the group that was not prescribed any mood stabilizers (MS). Chronicity, psychotic symptoms, suicidality, and deterioration of life functioning were significantly severe in the group that received two or more antipsychotics (APs). BD-PRS between the group with AP(s) only and that with other treatment options significantly differed. BD-PRS of the group with AP(s) only was significantly lower than that with other treatment options. Our linear regression results showed that high severity of particular clinical aspects, lower BD-PRS, and prescriptions with fewer MSs or more APs were independently associated with poor life functioning. This study had a cross-sectional design, without differentiating the bipolar phase, which could influence our results. Poor life functioning in patients with BID was associated with a high severity of particular clinical aspects, BD-PRS, and prescriptions including fewer MSs or more APs. BD-PRS was significantly higher in the group receiving only AP(s) than that in the groups receiving other drugs. • Particular clinical aspects were significantly more severe in the group that was not prescribed any mood stabilizers (MS). • Particular clinical aspects were significantly severe in the group that received two or more antipsychotics (APs). • Poor life functioning was associated with a high severity of particular clinical aspects, BD-PRS, and some prescriptions. • BD-PRS was higher in the group receiving only AP(s) than that in the groups receiving other drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to comprehensively evaluate the diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes of individuals afflicted with malignant parotid tumors at a tertiary care otolaryngology department in Heilbronn, Germany, spanning the years 2010–2018. The primary objective was to juxtapose this dataset with findings from analogous single and multicenter investigations. We conducted a meticulous analysis of electronic medical records pertaining to 45 patients subjected to primary parotid cancer treatment. The male‐to‐female ratio was 3:2, with an average age of 61 years. Predominant histological types included mucoepidermoid and squamous cell carcinomas, with ultrasound emerging as the predominant diagnostic modality (97.8% sensitivity). Intraoperative frozen sections exhibited a high level of sensitivity. Notably, lymph node metastasis was prevalent in T3 tumors, frequently located intraparotid and at Neck level II. Solely one patient exhibited distant metastases (pulmonary). All patients underwent parotidectomy, and 29% necessitated a secondary procedure due to positive resection margins. Postoperative complications encompassed facial nerve palsy, seromas, and salivary fistulas. Adjuvant radiotherapy (38%) was recommended for high‐grade tumors, T3/T4 stage, N+, perineural invasion (PNI), and positive or uncertain surgical margins. Neck dissection was executed in 67% of instances, with 20% revealing occult lymph node metastases. Recurrence manifested in 22% of patients, primarily as locoregional recurrence (80%) and distant metastases (20%). The 3‐year recurrence‐free survival (RFS), cancer‐specific survival (CSS), and overall survival (OS) rates stood at 72.1%, 91.9%, and 87.5%, respectively. Noteworthy factors influencing RFS included preoperative facial palsy, T stage, resection margins, and PNI. In summary, the management of parotid cancer involving surgical interventions, neck dissection, and radiotherapy in high‐risk patients yielded commendable outcomes with minimal complications, showcasing survival rates exceeding 70%. Timely diagnosis at an early stage is imperative for achieving tumor‐free margins and enhancing survival rates. More assertive therapeutic strategies are advocated for cases presenting with preoperative facial nerve palsy and PNI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Gliomas account for 24% of all primary brain and CNS tumors. Histologically, gliomas were categorized into subtypes and grades (I through IV). Low-grade gliomas are grade I and grade II, while high-grade gliomas are grade III and grade IV. The gold standard for treatment of high-grade glioma is the most extensive safe surgical resection followed by radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy. However, recurrence of glioma is inevitable. Management of recurrent cases is still controversy. Aim of the work: The purpose of this research was to examine the efficacy of reoperation for cases of recurrent glioma in improving patients' outcome. Methods: This study included 25 patients with recurrent glioma admitted and operated upon in neurosurgical department in Assiut University hospitals through 1 year from 1/11/2020 to 30/10/2021. Results: There were 17 male (68%) and 8 female (32%), their age incidence ranged from 25 to 74 years with a mean age of 49.09, gross total resection of recurrent cases could be done in 14 (56%) patients, subtotal resection in 6 (24%) and partial in 5 (20%), all of recurrence were found at the same site almost the same of primary tumor except that two cases were radionecrosis and one patient revealed aggressive transformation from anaplastic astrocytoma to GBM by the end of the study period, and 17 (68%) patients alive and 8 (32%) died. Conclusion: Surgical management of recurrent gliomas in selected patients is generally associated with improved functional performance and prolonged survival. Patients' Karnofsky score at recurrence is an important prognostic factor for both low-grade glioma and high-grade glioma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) are the gastro-intestinal diseases of the current century. They are described by alternating periods of activity & remission. The assessment of severity is classically done by scoring systems for each disease which depend on patients' symptoms, inflammatory markers, endoscopic findings, and disease impact on functional activities. The current study focused on some of the potentially modifiable risk factors for activity, not involved in classic scoring systems like sarcopenia & Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI) in a group of IBD studied cases. Results: A prospective study on 146 patients with established diagnosis of IBD; divided into two groups; Group1 were studied cases in activity; and Group 2 were patients in remission. Both groups were subjected to clinical assessment, laboratory tests, endoscopies, cross-sectional imaging with specific attention to psoas muscle indices. Both groups were followed up clinically for at least 6 months by clinical activity scores. In this research, the mean patients' age was 35 years and 45% were females; the prevalence of sarcopenia in studied cases with active IBD had been 49.3% & 6.8% in remission. It was more prevalent in Crohn's disease. Sarcopenia and low PNI were significantly related to disease activity, & poor clinical outcome in studied cases with IBD with a p- value < 0.05. Conclusion: Sarcopenia and low PNI can be used as markers of activity of IBD. They are associated with worse outcomes. It is recommended to early detect and manage sarcopenia and malnutrition in IBD patients to improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aside from the obvious negative effects on patients and society's financial well-being, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) can lead to absenteeism, decreased productivity, and impaired respiratory function, all of which have a major influence on patients and society's overall quality of life. Endoscopic sinus surgery is an option for patients who have not responded to other treatments, and there are several objective and subjective ways to evaluate the success of the procedure, even if there is little level 1 evidence. We summarize the available outcome metrics and provide a thorough evaluation of the published results up to this point. Also covered is research suggesting that endoscopic sinus surgery may improve asthma patients' respiratory performance. Conclusion: There has been a shift in the last 20 years toward using patient-reported outcomes rather than objective data as the main result in sinus disease, especially CRS. The variety of instruments at our disposal enables us to assess the efficacy of surgery in relation to health-specific and general quality of life, burden of illness, healthcare utilization, and pulmonary function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several techniques were utilized for internal fixation of patellar fractures which include the AO modified tension band wiring, interfragmentary screws or figure of eight wiring using the cannulated screws. This research aimed to assess the outcomes of fixation of patellar fractures using cannulated screws with tension band wiring. Methods: This prospective clinical study was carried out in orthopedic surgery department of Zagazig University Hospitals on 18 cases who had fracture patella. Patellar fractures fixation was done utilizing cannulated screws with tension band with follow up period of at least 2 years. Postoperative evaluation was performed according to range of motion, radiological evaluation and Bostman's score. Results: Progressive improvement of range of motion of knee in both flexion and extension at each follow-up was noted. 94.4% (17 cases) had flexion of > 120° and 100% (18 cases) had extension = 15° by the end of 24 weeks. Radiological union occurred at the 6th postoperative week in 15 patients (83.3%) and after 12 weeks in 17 patients (94.4%). At the follow-up all patients achieved union. Regarding the Bostman's score, at the end of final follow up, it was excellent in 15 patients (83.3%), good in 2 patients (11.1%) and poor in one patient (5.6%). Conclusions: The use of cannulated screws in conjunction with anterior tension band wire to treat transverse patellar fractures is an effective, reliable, and reproducible procedure, Improvements in radiological and functional outcomes, as well as curative effects on patella fracture, complication rates, and the timing of postoperative functional activity, are all benefits of this procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prognosis for patients with relapse of localized rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) remains poor, with limited evidence for optimal second‐line therapy. This study describes the management and outcomes of relapsed RMS patients in France. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all nonmetastatic RMS patients enrolled in France in the RMS 2005 study who relapsed between 2006 and 2019 after achieving complete local control, defined as complete remission or stable residue ≥ 6 months after treatment completion. Data were extracted from the RMS 2005 database and medical records. Results: Ninety‐five patients relapsed at a median age of 6.0 years (range: 1.0–27.0). The median time from diagnosis to relapse was 17.5 months (range: 7.4–82.0). Most patients had embryonal RMS (65.3%) and local/locoregional relapses (71.6%). The first relapse treatment included chemotherapy (all except two patients), radiotherapy (52.6%), and surgery (48.4%). Second‐line chemotherapy yielded a 58.5% objective response rate after 3 ± 1 cycles. Fifty‐five patients achieved second complete remission. With a median follow‐up of 7.2 years from the first relapse (range: 0.3–11.3), 5‐year progression‐free survival was 26% (95% CI: 18–36), and 5‐year overall survival was 35% (95% CI: 25–45). Importantly, no patient survived relapse without receiving locoregional treatment (surgery and/or radiotherapy). Conclusion: This study confirmed the inconsistencies in therapy and the poor prognosis for relapsed RMS but highlighted the potential for long‐term survival in patients who received surgery and/or radiotherapy, emphasizing the crucial role of achieving local control in improving outcomes at relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Assessment of the longer‐term outcome of anorexia nervosa (AN) in female adolescent inpatients (N = 132). Method: A follow‐up (mean 8.2 years) after treatment was conducted. A subsample of 39 patients with at least 10 years of follow‐up (mean 14 years) was defined. Results: Over the 8‐year follow‐up period, the body mass index (BMI) increased from 14.33 (1.65) to 19.04 kg/m2 (2.97; t[112] = 17.33, p < 0.001, d = 1.63), and BMI percentiles increased from 0.50 (1.14) to 24.96 (26.81; t[112] = 9.83, p < 0.001, d = 0.92). Remission was found in 32.5% (8‐year total sample) and 48.6% (14‐year subsample). In the 8‐year total sample, 15.1% still had AN or had relapsed (8.1% in the 14‐year subsample). A cross‐over from AN to binge‐eating disorder was rare. The main cross‐over occurred from AN to an eating disorder not otherwise specified (37.5% and 27.0%, respectively). The standardized mortality ratio was 21.7. Discussion: In the long run, eating disorder diagnoses decreased significantly. Although a considerable proportion of patients recovered from their eating disorder, the number of recovered patients remained limited, with long‐term negative consequences in a large proportion of patients. Standardized mortality was excessive, calling for ever‐better therapies. Additional studies are needed to show if improved therapies lead to a better long‐term outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a long‐standing debate if finasteride, a medication used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA), can cause psychiatric side effects. Objective: The goal of this large‐scale population‐based study was to determine whether finasteride therapy for BPH and AGA is associated with the emergence of mental health conditions. Methods: This observational case–control study compared the data from patients with BPH who received finasteride 5 mg daily and patients with AGA who received finasteride 1 mg daily with age‐ and gender‐matched controls. The incidence of psychological health outcomes such as depression, anxiety, neuroses, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychoses and alcohol abuse within 2 years of the initiation of finasteride therapy has been evaluated and compared between the finasteride groups and controls. Results: The BPH group included 307 men with a mean age of 61.5 (±17.4) years and 1218 controls. Mental health outcomes recorded in 2.3% of the patients, with no significant increase in rate when compared to controls. The AGA group consisted of 23,227 men with a mean age of 31.4 (±10.3) years and 39,444 controls. One percent of AGA patients developed psychiatric disorders. In comparison to controls, patients with AGA had higher rates of anxiety and depression (0.6% vs. 0.4%, p = 0.04, and 0.5% vs. 0.4%, p = 0.007, respectively). In multivariate regression models, finasteride was found as one of the risk factors for anxiety (OR 1.449, p = 0.002) and depression (OR 1.439, p = 0.003) when stratified to age, sector, socioeconomic status and comorbidities. Conclusions: According to our research, finasteride users had a very low rate of adverse mental health effects, with no increase in psychological sequelae in BPH patients and a slight increase in anxiety and depression in AGA patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is limited information on brain perfusion single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) findings related to motor outcomes in patients with stroke. We aimed to investigate whether brain SPECT can be used to determine motor outcomes after corona radiata infarction. Methods: Eighty-nine patients were recruited in this study. Brain SPECT and diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) were conducted to evaluate the state of the corticospinal tract (CST) within 7–30 days of corona radiata infarct. Motor outcome was measured 6 months after infarct onset and was evaluated using the modified Brunnstrom classification (MBC) and functional ambulation category (FAC) for motor function of the upper and lower extremities, respectively. The presence of hypoperfusion on brain SPECT was evaluated in the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, parietal lobe, basal ganglia, thalamus, and cerebellum on both the ipsilesional and contralesional sides. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate logistic regression, comparing patients in which CST was spared versus interrupted. Results: Hypoperfusion in the contralesional cerebellum was indicative of poor recovery in both the upper and lower extremities after corona radiata infarction when the CST was interrupted. Additionally, when the CST was preserved, hypoperfusion in the ipsilesional thalamus was indicative of poor recovery of the lower extremities. Conclusion: Brain SPECT evaluation was shown to be a useful tool for predicting motor outcomes in patients with corona radiata infarcts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Scaphoid nonunion often requires surgical management involving the combination of a bone graft and internal fixation to restore the carpal alignment and length. While traditionally, the scaphoid waist nonunions have been treated with open bone grafts, with the advent of arthroscopy, bone graft reconstruction can now be carried out as an arthroscopic assisted minimally invasive procedure. We aimed to compare outcomes between open and arthroscopic bone grafting in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion. Methods: A review protocol was established according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. PubMed/Medline, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar were searched for articles on open and arthroscopic bone grafting for scaphoid nonunion with a minimum 12 month follow-up. The primary outcome was union rates in the two techniques. Secondary outcomes were changes in pain scores, complications, functional outcomes using different scoring systems, grip strength, range of motion at the wrist, and radiological parameters for restoring normal carpal alignment. Results: Forty studies reporting on 1534 wrists were included (1152 open, 382 arthroscopic). The union rate was 93.4% and 93.2% with open and arthroscopic techniques, respectively. The functional scores were comparable between the two techniques. All patients had a reduction in their pain scores. The radiological outcome parameters were not reported by any of the studies in the arthroscopic group. Conclusion: While bone grafting with both open and arthroscopic techniques for scaphoid nonunion showed comparable union rates and functional scores, further research is needed to assess the radiological outcomes of the arthroscopic technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tocilizumab (TCZ) which is a humanized interleukin (IL)-6 receptor antibody has been increasingly widespread used in rheumatology practice. TCZ-related hypofibrinogenemia is a not well-described side effect, but awareness seems to be incresing as publications on this topic are also becoming more frequent. Our aim in this study was to determine the frequency, timing, and approach to TCZ-related hypofibrinogenemia in rheumatic diseases. We retrospectively screened our patients who received TCZ for inflammatory rheumatic diseases and studied serum fibrinogen at least once before and/or after drug administration. We recorded and analyzed demographic features (age, gender, diagnosis), comorbidities, laboratory parameters, management, and outcome data. 30 patients who received TCZ due to rheumatological diseases and had at least one fibrinogen level were included in this study. 73.3% were female and median age was found to be 65 (42–82) years, with median disease duration of 148 (36–500) months. 90% of the patients received TCZ for RA and 10% for GCA. We examined the fibrogen levels at an average of 24 months (min 1 max 108) following the start of TCZ treatment. The study group was divided into those with normal fibrinogen levels (normal fibrinogen group) and those with low fibrinogen levels (lowfibrinogen group). In total, hypofibrinogenemia was found in 14 (46.6%) patients. Median serum fibrinogen level in the low fibrinogen group after TCZ was calculated to be 151.5 mg/dl (min 92 max 171). Most patients were asymptomatic (71.4%). Ecchymoses were in seen 4 (28,6%) patients. No major bleeding were seen. TCZ was discontinued in 5 out of 14 patients (35.7%), while 9 out of 14 patients (64.3%) were closely followed. Outcomes regarding fibrinogen levels (11 out of 14) were as follows: increase in 4 and not checked in one after cessation of the drug, 3 spontaneous increases under the drug, and 3 persistently low levels on TCZ treatment. We found no difference in terms of gender (p = 0.417), platelets (p = 0.343), ESR (p = 0.448), and CRP (p = 0.660) at the time of TCZ initiation between groups. TCZ-related hypofibrinogenemia is more frequent than expected with occurence in both the early and late stages of treatment. Further research is required to determine whether to regularly measure fibrinogen levels in patients using TCZ and how to treat patients with hypofibrinogenemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The objective of this study is to identify variables associated with clinical outcomes after urologic transfers before and during the COVID pandemic. Methods: After IRB approval, a retrospective chart review was performed on adult patients transferred to our institution from 01/01/2018 to 12/31/2019 ("pre‐COVID") and from 01/02/2020 to 12/31/2022 ("COVID"). We identified demographics, origin hospitals, ICD‐10 pre‐ and post‐transfer diagnoses, distance of transfer, and post‐transfer CPT codes. Results: During the study period, our adult urology service accepted 160 transfers with a mean patient age of 71 years. A total of 49/160 (30%) of subjects made up the "pre‐COVID" cohort and 111/160 (70%) made up the "COVID" cohort. There were 11/111 (10%) transfers of >100 miles in the COVID period but 0/49 in the pre‐COVID period (p = 0.02). Patients from the COVID period waited on average 1.2 days longer for a procedure after transfer compared to pre‐COVID period (p = 0.03). The time until a patient's surgical procedure after transfer was a significant predictor of length of stay > 5 days (OR 1.91, CI 1.43 – 2.58, p < 0.01). Different diagnosis upon re‐evaluation after transfer was associated with a decreased rate of subsequent readmission (OR 0.30, CI 0.09–0.97, p = 0.05). Conclusions: Long‐distance transfer, even >100 miles (which we termed "mega‐transfers"), was a new pandemic‐related phenomenon at our institution. Delays in definitive care and changes in diagnoses after transfer were associated with readmission and length of stay. Our findings illustrate the importance of inter‐institutional communication, diagnostic accuracy, and post discharge planning when managing transfer patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate patient characteristics and 5-year outcomes after surgical mitral valve (MV) repair for leaflet prolapse at a medium-sized cardiothoracic center. Background. Contemporary reports on the outcome of MV repair at medium-sized cardiothoracic centers are sparse. Methods. Patients receiving open-heart surgery with MV repair due to primary mitral regurgitation caused by leaflet prolapse between 2015 and 2021, without active endocarditis, were included. Clinical data, complications, re-interventions, mortality, and echocardiographic data were retrospectively registered from electronical patient charts, both pre-operatively and from post-operative follow-ups. Results. One hundred and three patients were included, 83% male, with a mean age of 62 years. All-cause mortality was 9% during a median follow-up time of 4.9 years. Re-intervention rate on the MV was 4%. Post-operative complications before last available follow-up visit at median 3.0 years were infrequent, with new-onset atrial fibrillation/flutter in 16%, post-operative MV regurgitation grade II or above in 17% and post-operative tricuspid regurgitation grade II or above in 14%. Conclusions. These data demonstrate that surgical MV repair for leaflet prolapse at a medium-sized cardiothoracic center was associated with low re-intervention rate and few severe complications. The presented results are comparable to data from surgical high-volume centers, indicating that surgical MV repair can be safely performed at selected medium-sized cardiothoracic centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis in children is a relatively uncommon injury, predominantly occurring in children under 3 years. It has a high risk of treatment delays. This study aims to evaluate outcomes in the management of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis treated seven or more days post-initial injury. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis between November 2016 and October 2023. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients with delayed presentation of fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis who underwent surgical intervention seven or more days following the initial injury. Demographic data were collected, and fractures were categorized using the modified DeLee classification. Plain radiographs facilitated the assessment of the carrying angle and postoperative Baumann angle. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Flynn criteria. Results: The study included 12 patients who met the inclusion criteria. The average age at the time of injury was 1.59 years. According to the modified DeLee system, fracture classification identified one type I fracture, eight type II fractures, and three type III fractures. The average duration from injury to surgery was 11.8 days. The mean surgical duration was 21.5 min. The average follow-up period was 40.7 months. One patient exhibited cubitus varus development. Based on the Flynn criteria, outcomes were as follows: seven patients had excellent outcomes, four had good outcomes, and one had a poor outcome. Conclusion: Closed reduction with percutaneous K-wire fixation represents a minimally invasive approach suitable for children diagnosed with fracture separation of the distal humeral epiphysis seven or more days post-initial injury. Most of these patients experienced favorable outcomes. Level of evidence: IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To study the effect of SARS-CoV2 infection on flares of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods Patients who fulfilled the ACR/SLICC criteria for SLE and had documented COVID-19 between February and November 2022 were identified retrospectively from our hospital COVID-19 registry. SLE controls who did not have SARS-CoV2 infection were randomly matched for age, sex and the time of infection in a 2:1 ratio with those infected. The primary outcome of interest was clinical flare of SLE within 90 days of COVID-19. The rate of SLE flares (mild/moderate or severe) was compared between SARS-CoV2-infected SLE patients and controls. Results Ninety-one SLE patients with COVID-19 (age 48.6 (14.0) years; 95.6% women) and 182 SLE controls (age 48.7 (13.8) years; 95.6% women) were studied. Eleven of 91 (12.1%) SARS-CoV2-infected patients had serious manifestations. One (1.1%) patient died and 7 (7.7%) developed severe complications. Within 90 days of SARS-CoV2 infection, 14 (15.4%) patients developed mild/moderate clinical SLE flares and two (2.2%) patients had severe SLE flares. The incidence of SLE flares in SARS-CoV2-infected patients was significantly higher than in those without the infection (17.6% vs 5.5%; odds ratio 3.67 [95% CI: 1.59, 8.46]; P  = 0.001). The changes in anti-dsDNA and complement levels, however, were not significantly different between the two groups. Among SARS-CoV2-infected SLE patients, those with clinical SLE flares had significantly lower C3 values (P  = 0.004) before the infection than those without. Conclusion Clinical flares within 90 days were significantly more common in SLE patients infected with SARS-CoV2 than matched non-infected SLE controls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Service disengagement is a major problem for "Early Intervention in Psychosis" (EIP). Understanding predictors of engagement is also crucial to increase effectiveness of mental health treatments, especially in young people with First Episode Psychosis (FEP). No Italian investigation on this topic has been reported in the literature to date. The goal of this research was to assess service disengagement rate and predictors in an Italian sample of FEP subjects treated within an EIP program across a 2-year follow-up period. All patients were young FEP help-seekers, aged 12–35 years, recruited within the "Parma Early Psychosis" (Pr-EP) program. At baseline, they completed the Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were carried out. 489 FEP subjects were enrolled in this study. Across the follow-up, a 26 % prevalence rate of service disengagement was found. Particularly strong predictors of disengagement were living with parents, poor treatment adherence at entry and a low baseline PANSS "Disorganization" factor score. More than a quarter of our FEP individuals disengaged the Pr-EP program during the first 2 years of intervention. A possible solution to reduce disengagement and to facilitate re-engagement of these young patients might be to offer the option of low-intensity monitoring and support, also via remote technology and tele-mental health care. • A 26 % 2-year prevalence rate of service disengagement from the Pr-EP program was found. • Main predictor of disengagement was poor treatment adherence at entry. • Offering low-intensity support (also via remote technology) is helpful to reduce disengagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim - Recent findings suggest that OCS are prevalent in individuals with early psychosis. However, their clinical relevance still needs to be clarified. This research specifically explored OCS in subjects at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis (CHR P), with the aims of determining their baseline prevalence, examining their 2-year stability, and analyzing their association with sociodemographic data, clinical characteristics and outcomes. Methods - Clinical assessments at baseline and during the 2-year follow-up period included: the Comprehensive Assessment of At-Risk Mental states (CAARMS), the Positive And Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). OCS were identified using the CAARMS item 7.6 subscore. Results - Among 180 CHR-P participants, 66 (36.7 %) had OCS at baseline. CHR-P with OCS had higher PANSS scores and greater antidepressant prescription rates. OCS severity levels improved in the first year, but plateaued over two years, correlating with longitudinal changes in GAF and PANSS total scores. OCS improvement was specifically associated with antidepressant use and intensity of individual psychotherapy sessions. CHR-P subjects with OCS had higher service engagement rates. Conclusions - The presence of OCS could characterize a distinct CHR-P subtype with specific clinical and prognostic characteristics, requiring tailored diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Recognizing the heterogeneity in CHR-P population is crucial for optimizing care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical registries are increasingly common and have value in conditions such as congenital upper limb differences where collection of adequate data for scientific study can be challenging due to small numbers and clinical, surgical and psychosocial heterogeneity. This article discusses the motivation, purpose and development of the Australian Hand Differences Register before examining some of the challenges faced during its implementation and considering limitations of registry-derived data. Level of Evidence: Level V (Diagnostic) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study was conducted to examine disproportionality, times to onset, incidence rates and outcomes of lenvatinib‐associated cardiac adverse events (AEs) using the Japanese Adverse Drug Event Report database. Methods: We analysed data for the period between April 2004 and May 2023. Data on cardiac AEs were extracted and the relative disproportionality of AEs was estimated using reporting odds ratios (RORs). Furthermore, Weibull distribution parameters were calculated. Results: Of the 2 230 863 reports analysed, we identified 7684 reports of AEs associated with lenvatinib, including 317 cardiac AEs. Signals were detected for eight cardiac AEs: hypertension, cardiac failure, myocarditis, myocardial infarction, immune‐mediated myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, angina unstable and cardiotoxicity. Among these, fatal outcomes were observed for cardiac failure, myocarditis and myocardial infarction. Histograms of median times to onset for the eight detected cardiac AE signals showed that AEs occurred at a median of 3.5–134.5 days after lenvatinib administration. The Weibull distributions showed that cardiac failure occurred early after administration (early failure type), myocarditis occurred in a dose‐dependent manner (wearout failure type), and myocardial infarction occurred constantly throughout the exposure period (random failure type). Conclusions: We focused on cardiac AEs associated with lenvatinib as post‐marketing AEs. Serious outcomes can arise after lenvatinib administration. Patients should be monitored for signs of onset of these AEs not only at the start of administration, but also over an extended period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hyperosmolar therapy has long been a cornerstone in managing increased intracranial pressure and improving outcomes in severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). This therapy hinges on elevating serum osmolality, creating an osmotic gradient that draws excess water from the brain's cellular and interstitial compartments and effectively reducing cerebral edema. Given this information, we hypothesized that the serum hyperosmolality prior to any treatment could significantly impact the clinical outcomes of patients with severe TBI, potentially mitigating secondary cerebral edema after trauma. Methods: Data were extracted from the Korean Multi-center Traumatic Brain Injury data bank, encompassing 4628 patients with TBI admitted between January 2016 and December 2018. Of these, 507 patients diagnosed with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale score < 9) were selected for comprehensive analysis across four data domains: clinical, laboratory, initial computed tomography scan, and treatment. Serum osmolality was assessed prior to treatment, and the hyperosmolar group was defined by a pretreatment serum osmolality exceeding 320 mOsm/L, whereas favorable outcomes were characterized by a modified Rankin Scale score of ≤ 3 at 6 months after trauma. Multivariate regression with receiver operating characteristic curve analysis and propensity score matching were used to dissect the data set. Results: Multivariate analysis showed serum osmolality is significantly associated with clinical outcome in patients with severe TBI (p < 0.001). The optimal cutoff value for predicting favorable outcome was 331 mOsm/L, with a sensitivity of 38.9% and a specificity of 87.7%. Notably, the propensity score matching analysis comparing patients with pretreatment serum hyperosmolality with those without indicated a markedly improved functional outcome in the former group (32.5% vs 18.8%, p = 0.025). Conclusions: The present study has uncovered a significant correlation between the pretreatment serum osmolality and the clinical outcomes of patients with severe TBI. These findings offer a novel perspective, indicating that a serum hyperosmolality prior to any treatment might potentially have a neuroprotective effect in patients with severe TBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pediatric hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents significant challenges due to its aggressive nature, with survival depending on complete resection. We aimed to assess outcomes between liver resection (LR) and liver transplantation (LT). Methods: A total of 25 patients were retrieved, four of whom were classified as palliative at diagnosis. A subanalysis comparing cirrhotic liver (n = 14) versus de novo (n = 11) HCC was performed to identify confounding variables. Further evaluation focused on the 21 children with histologically confirmed HCC who underwent LR (n = 7) versus LT (n = 14). Kaplan–Meier survival curves were constructed. Results: The mean age was 7.8 ± 6.1 years for patients with cirrhotic liver and 12.1 ± 3.5 years for de novo HCC. Our group observed overall total survival rates of 100%, 85%, and 77% at 12, 36, and 60 months, respectively. De novo tumors had a higher recurrence rate and a poorer prognosis (p = 0.039 and p = 0.045). The disease‐free survival at 60 months in our cohort was significantly lower among the LR group compared to the LT group (14% vs. 82%; p = 0.0081). Recurrence after initial management (n = 8) showed location differences between LR and LT. Preoperative alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) was elevated in 71% of children, but did not correlate with recurrence or compromised survival. Elevated AFP 3 months post‐operation affected the course negatively (p = 0.044). Tumor number and diameter exhibited a trend towards poorer outcomes. Conclusions: These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive pediatric surgical guidelines for HCC. We recommend LT over LR in pediatric cases. Extrahepatic disease post‐neoadjuvant chemotherapy remains the only absolute contraindication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is common, predominantly affects the elderly, often recurs after treatment, and can have serious complications, including death. Inflammation plays an important role in cSDH and it has been previously shown that some laboratory indices are useful as prognostic markers. The aim was to research the role of hematologic and inflammatory markers in cSDH. Materials and Methods A single-center archival database review to retrieve data on cSDH cases operated on between 2018 and 2020, including: (1) sociodemography (age, gender), (2) clinics (Glasgow Coma Score [GCS], anticoagulants, chronic conditions), (3) laboratory (leukocyte, neutrophil, platelet, C-reactive protein, hemoglobin, red cell distribution width [RDW], neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio [PLR], systemic immune-inflammatory index [SII]), (4) cSDH (size, location, midline shift), and (5) treatment (craniotomy/craniostomy, drainage). Primary outcome was Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) at discharge and at 1 year, and secondary outcomes were 1 year mortality, resurgery, and recurrence. Hematological and inflammatory indices were compared across two cSDH thickness groups. Results Seventy-two patients were included, 25 women and 47 men, median age 77 years. Seventeen (23.6%) patients had chronic anticoagulant treatment. The majority had a chronic comorbidity: 19 (26.4%) diabetes, 48 (66.7%) hypertension, and 56 (77.8%) other chronic diseases. Median preoperative GCS was 15. Median cSDH thickness was 22.9 mm, sidedness was equally distributed, and midline shift occurred in 60 (83.3 %) patients, with median midline shift of 8.4 mm. The majority of patients underwent a single craniostomy (n = 44, 61.1%), and in all patients a subdural drainage was placed. Median GOS at discharge and at 1 year postoperatively was 5. Mortality was 11.1%, and 16.7% of patients were lost to follow-up. Within the 1-year follow-up, 27.8% of patients had disease recurrence, 25% underwent a repeat surgery. In the "above" versus "below" 15 mm cSDH thickness group there were significant differences in P count (211.5 vs. 279.5 × 10 9 /L, p = 0.009), RDW (13.3 vs. 12.6, p = 0.031), SII (1782 vs. 2653, p = 0.025), and PLR (26.2 vs. 36.7, p = 0.042). Conclusion Hematological indices bear a diagnostic and prognostic potential in cSDH management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Treatment of ruptured broad-necked intracranial aneurysms by endovascular therapy is technically burdensome. It is commonly treated with stent- and balloon-assisted coils embolization. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes following double micro-catheter (MC) technique. Materials and Methods A retrospective study was done on 16 broad-necked (neck diameter ≥ 4 mm and dome-to-neck ratio < 2) ruptured intracranial aneurysms in 16 patients treated with double MC technique at our center between December 2021 and December 2023. Clinical outcome was evaluated by modified Rankin Score, postcoiling radiological outcome was evaluated by Raymond–Roy occlusion grade, and treatment-related complications were assessed. Results There were 16 patients, 9 females and 7 males; with a mean age of 51.3 years (35–70 years). All the patients underwent dual MC coils embolization for all aneurysms. Raymond–Roy occlusion class I was achieved in 81.3% (13) cases and Raymond–Roy class II was achieved in 18.7% (3) cases immediately after the procedure. There were no serious postprocedure-related complications or recanalization of the aneurysm at the mean follow-up of 4.8 months (range 2–10 months). Conclusion Our study presents the safety and effectiveness of double MC system for treating ruptured broad-necked intracranial aneurysm. Large numbers of studies with longer follow-up period are required to secure validity of double MC technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To report the outcome of cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) undergoing treatment. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase and CINAHL databases were searched. Inclusion criteria were women with CSP undergoing treatment. The primary outcome was successful treatment for CSP, defined as no need for additional medical or surgical strategies. Secondary outcomes were the type of additional treatment (surgical or medical), need for blood transfusion, emergency laparotomy, hysterectomy, post-treatment complications. All these outcomes were explored in women undergoing single and compound treatments for CSP. Furthermore, we performed a separate sub-group analysis only including studies which reported on the outcomes of elective treatments. Random effects meta-analyses were used to analyze the data and results reported as pooled proportions or odd ratio (OR). Results: 176 studies (13431 women with CSP undergoing treatment) were included. Successful treatment after primary intervention was achieved in 86.2% (95% CI 82.3–89.7) of women with CSP undergoing treatment with ultrasound guided suction curettage, 72.4% (95% CI 64.8-79.3) with systemic MTX, 81.6% (95% CI 72.3–89.3) with local MTX, 83.9% (95% CI 66.7–95.6) with interventional radiology, 90.42% (95% CI 82.9–96.0) with hysteroscopy, 96.1% (95% CI (92.3–98.6) with laparoscopy and 92.6 with high intensity focused ultrasound (95% CI 78.2–99.6). Post-treatments complications were reported in 3.5% (95% CI 1.7–6.0) of women treated with systemic MTX, 5.9% (95% CI 0.8–15.1) with local MTX or KCl, 1.2% (95% CI 0.1–3.5) with interventional radiology, 1.4% (95% CI 0.4–2.9) with hysteroscopy, 5.5% (95% CI 0.4–25.7) with high intensity focused ultrasound and in none of the cases treated with ultrasound guided suction curettage. When considering compound treatments, successful resolution of CSP was achieved in 91.9% (95% CI 88.0–95.10) of women treated with interventional radiology followed by curettage, 83.3% (95% CI 68.8–93.8) with systemic MTX and curettage, 79.4% (95% CI 56.3–95.2) with local MTX and curettage, 96.2% (95% CI 92.3–98.7) with curettage followed by single or double balloon insertion in the uterine cavity, 98.3% (95% CI 95.9–99.7) with high intensity focused ultrasound followed by curettage, 91.1% (95% CI 3.4–97.0) with interventional radiology followed by removal of CSP with hysteroscopy, 64.3% (95% CI 13.8–99.2) with interventional radiology and systemic MTX and in 95.5% (95% CI 92.9–97.5) with curettage and hysteroscopy. When considering studies reporting a comparison between different treatments, there was no difference between systemic vs local MTX in the primary outcome. Curettage was associated with a higher chance of achieving a successful treatment. Conclusions: A multitude of treatments for CSP have been reported in the published literature. All treatments described for CSP are apparently equally effective in treating this condition. The findings from this systematic review highlight the need for adopting a common definition and outcome reporting of CSP to better elucidate its natural history, estimate the magnitude of maternal complication after treatment and design appropriately powered RCT to elucidate the optimal treatment of CSP according to its ultrasound phenotype and gestational age at treatment, in terms of effective resolution of the condition and risk of post-intervention complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but serious manifestation of venous thrombosis in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). This study investigated the risk factors, clinical characteristics and prognosis of CVST in APS patients. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included all thrombotic APS (tAPS) patients from Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) from April 2005 to August 2023. Demographic characteristics, laboratory data and thrombotic risk factors were compared between tAPS-CVST group and tAPS-non-CVST group. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was utilized to compare the recanalization rate and the recurrence rate. Results: A total of 453 APS patients were enrolled, and 40 (8.8%) APS patients were with CVST. The median age of the APS-CVST patients was 27 (21.25, 32.75) years, and 72.5% were females. In 50% of these patients, CVST was the initial symptom of APS, with headache being the most prevalent clinical symptom (95%). Involvement of more than two venous sinuses were observed in 79.5% of patients, with the transverse sinus (79.5%) and sigmoid sinus (74.4%) being the most commonly affected sites. Oral contraceptives, intracranial infections and malignancy were identified as risk factors of APS-CVST. There were no statistically significant differences in baseline characteristics or the distribution of antiphospholipid antibodies profiles between the two groups. After a median follow-up of 24 (12, 52) months, 21 patients (52.5%) experienced recanalization, and 13 patients (32.5%) had a thrombotic recurrence. Survival analysis indicated that adequate anticoagulant therapy significantly contributed to recanalization (HR 6.27, 95% CI 2.616–15.02, P = 0.003), while continuous anticoagulant therapy was highly effective in reducing the recurrence of thrombotic events (HR 0.14, 95% CI 0.0447–0.4328, P = 0.0007). Conclusion: CVST should be considered in APS patients who experience sudden onset headaches, particularly those with thrombotic risk factors, such as the use of oral contraceptives, intracranial infections and malignancy. Continuous and adequate anticoagulant therapy is pivotal and beneficial for achieving recanalization and prevention of recurrence. Key Points • The prevalence of CVST in patients with APS may be underestimated. • APS-CVST is associated with special risk factors, including pregnancy, intracranial infection, oral contraceptives and tumors. • Long-term and adequate anticoagulation therapy can increase the vascular recanalization rate and reduce thrombosis recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic kidney disease‐mineral bone disorder (CKD‐MBD) is a syndrome commonly observed in subjects with impaired renal function. Phosphate metabolism has been implicated in the pathogenesis of CKD‐MBD and according to the phosphorocentric hypothesis may be the key player in the pathogenesis of these abnormalities. As phosphorous is an essential component for life, absorption from the bowel, accumulation and release from the bones, and elimination through the kidneys are all homeostatic mechanisms that maintain phosphate balance through very sophisticated feedback mechanisms, which comprise as main actors: vitamin D (VD), parathyroid hormone (PTH), calciproteins particles (CPPs), fibroblast growth factor‐23 (FGF‐23) and other phosphatonins and klotho. Indeed, as the renal function declines, factors such as FGF‐23 and PTH prevent phosphate accumulation and hyperphosphatemia. However, these factors per se may be responsible for the organ damages associated with CKD‐MBD, such as bone osteodystrophy and vascular calcification. We herein review the current understanding of the CKD‐MBD focusing on phosphorous metabolism and the impact of phosphate manipulation on surrogate and hard outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Survival after meningioma surgery is often reported with inadequate allowance for competing causes of death. Methods: We processed the Système National des Données de Santé, the French administrative medical database to retrieve appropriate patients' case of surgically treated meningiomas. The Pohar Perme relative survival (RS) method was implement. Results: A total of 28,778 patients were identified between 2007 and 2017 of which 75% were female. Median age at surgery 59 years. Cranial convexity was the most common (24.7%) location and, benign meningioma represented 91.5% of all meningioma. Median follow-up was 3.5 years interquartile range [3.4–3.5]. At data collection, 2,232 patients were dead. The five-year survival relative to the expected survival of an age- and gender-matched French standard population was 96.2% 95% confidence interval (CI)[95.7–96.8]. Meningioma absolute excess risk of death was 973/100,000 person-years 95%CI[887–1068] (p<.001). The related standardised mortality ratio was 1.8 95%CI[1.7–1.9] (p<.001). In the adjusted model, male gender (hazard ratio [HR] =1.39, 95%CI[1.27–1.54], p<.001), age at surgery (HR=0.97, 95%CI[0.97–0.97], p <.001), type 2 neurofibromatosis (HR=2.95, 95%CI[1.95–4.46], p <.001), comorbidities HR=1.39, 95%CI[1.36–1.42], p <.001), location (HR=0.8, 95%CI[0.67–0.95], p=.0111), pre-operative embolization, (HR=1.3, 95%CI[1.08–1.56], p=.00507), cerebro-spinal fluid shunt, (HR=2.48, 95%CI[2.04–3.01], p <.001), atypical (HR=1.3, 95%CI [1.09–1.54], p=.00307) or malignant histology (HR=1.86, 95%CI[1.56–2.22], p<.001), redo surgery (HR=1.19, 95%CI[1.04–1.36], p=.0122) and radiotherapy (HR=1.43, 95%CI[1.26–1.62], p <.001) were established as independent predictors of RS. Conclusion: This unique study highlights the excess mortality associated with meningioma disease. Many factors such as gender, age, location, histopathological grading, redo surgery influence the RS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the cumulative rates of re‐operations after hypospadias repair and evaluate long‐term surgical outcomes at a tertiary paediatric urology centre. Patients and Methods: Retrospective analysis of 293 boys born between 1991 and 2003 undergoing hypospadias surgery was conducted. The study included 274 patients: 165 with distal, 34 with midshaft, and 75 with proximal hypospadias. Kaplan–Meier methods were used to evaluate the re‐operation data. Results: The median age at primary surgery was 1.3 years, with a median follow‐up of 14.4 years. The overall re‐operation rate was 48.2%, with approximately half of the problems detected within the first 3 months after surgery. The risk of re‐operation was correlated with hypospadias severity, with 5‐ and 15‐year re‐operation risks at 39.3% and 51.8%, respectively. Limitations of the study include its retrospective nature and variations in surgical techniques from current standards. Conclusion: There is a significant risk of unplanned re‐operations following hypospadias repair, increasing with the severity of the original condition. This underscores the need for extended follow‐up and effective communication with patients and their families about the likelihood of requiring multiple surgeries for optimal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The rapidly evolving landscape of effective treatment options in multiple sclerosis has led to a shift of treatment objectives towards a treat‐to‐target approach aiming to suppress disease activity below the level of detectability early during the disease. To enable treat‐to‐target, a thorough reappraisal of available outcome measures with respect to their ability in this regard is required. Methods: To that end, we conducted a comprehensive systematic literature review of more than 1000 studies using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) 2020 methodology focusing on underlying evidence as well as utility and implementability in clinical practice. Results: From there, we propose a set of measurable outcomes for everyday routine clinical practice as well as advanced/aspirational measurables requiring additional resources. We also outline remaining knowledge/technology gaps that need to be overcome to enable a treat‐to‐target approach. Conclusions: This work provides the basis for an evidence‐based definition of outcome targets for relevant stakeholders and regulatory authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: The benefit of remote ischaemic conditioning (RIC) in acute moderate ischaemic stroke has been demonstrated by the Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischaemic Stroke (RICAMIS) study. This prespecified exploratory analysis aimed to determine whether there was a difference of RIC efficacy in anterior versus posterior circulation stroke based on RICAMIS data. Methods: In this analysis, eligible patients presenting within 48 h of stroke onset were divided into two groups: anterior circulation stroke (ACS) and posterior circulation stroke (PCS) groups. The primary endpoint was an excellent functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0–1 at 90 days. Results: In all, 1013 patients were included in the final analysis, including 642 with ACS and 371 with PCS. Compared with the control group, RIC was significantly associated with an increased proportion of mRS scores 0–1 within 90 days in the PCS group (unadjusted odds ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.0–2.4, p = 0.04; adjusted odds ratio 2.0, 95% confidence interval 1.2–3.3, p = 0.005), but not in the ACS group (p = 0.29). Similar results were found regarding secondary outcomes including mRS score 0–2 at 90 days, mRS distribution at 90 days and change in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score at day 12 from baseline. However, there was no significant interaction effect between stroke location and intervention on the primary outcome (pinteraction = 0.21). Conclusion: Amongst patients with acute PCS who are not candidates for reperfusion treatment, RIC may be associated with a higher probability of improved functional outcomes. These findings need to be validated in prospective trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The impact of bridging thrombolysis prior to endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) compared to EVT alone on intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), and death in anticoagulated atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) is not well defined. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted using data from a federated research network (TriNetX) including 114 health care organisations in the United States. Anticoagulated AF patients with AIS who received either bridging thrombolysis (BT) or EVT alone from September 2018 to November 2023 were included. Following propensity score matching, Cox regression analyses examined the risk of ICH, SAH, and death within 30 and 90 days, comparing anticoagulated AF patients receiving BT versus EVT only. Results: A total of 3156 patients with AIS were treated with BT or EVT alone. Following 1:1 propensity score matching, the cohort included 766 patients in each group. ICH occurred within 30 and 90 days in 6.9% and 8.0% in the BT group compared with 7.4% and 7.7% in the EVT‐only group (hazard ratios [HR] = 0.92, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.63–1.33 and HR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.71–1.45, respectively). SAH occurred within 30 and 90 days in 4.2% and 4.4% of patients in the BT compared to 3.0% and 3.4% in the EVT‐only group (HR = 1.38, 95% CI = 0.81–2.38 and HR = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.77–2.14, respectively). Death occurred within 30 and 90 days in 17.8% and 19.8% of patients in the BT compared to 22.2% and 27.3% in the EVT‐only group (HR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.62–0.97 and HR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.56–0.86, respectively). Conclusions: In anticoagulated AF patients with AIS, BT was associated with a significantly lower risk of death, with no difference in ICH or SAH risk within 30 and 90 days compared to EVT only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is considerable interest in identifying factors that predict outcome from psychological treatment. This review examines the relationship between readiness / stage of change at entry to CBT treatment and treatment attendance or outcome in people with mental health problems other than addiction. Methods: Four databases: PsycINFO; MEDLINE; Embase and CINAHL were searched to identify relevant studies published in English from 1st January 1980 onwards. Following title and abstract screening, and full text review of potentially eligible studies, a total of 22 eligible studies were identified, of which 21 were included in the narrative synthesis. The review was registered on PROSPERO REF: CRD42020209173. Results: Nineteen studies explored the relationship between readiness and symptom outcome, with a majority (n = 13) identifying at least one statistically significant relationship between variables, either directly or in interaction with another measure. A number of these also tested other associations which were non-significant. In contrast, five studies explored the association between readiness and treatment attendance, and findings were inconclusive. Conclusions: The systematic review found some evidence suggesting that readiness is linked to symptom outcome in CBT, regardless of the type of clinical problem or readiness measure used. The studies adopting an RCT design identified no evidence of differences in the relationship between readiness and outcome when comparing CBT to other psychotherapeutic interventions. Study quality was variable, and a range of methodological limitations and potential avenues for future work are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome undergo the comprehensive stage 2 procedure as the second stage in the hybrid approach toward Fontan circulation. The complexity of comprehensive stage 2 procedure is considered a potential limitation, and limited information is available on its anesthetic management. This study aims to address this gap. Methods: A single‐center retrospective cohort study analyzed 148 HLHS patients who underwent comprehensive stage 2 procedure, divided into Group A (stable condition, n = 116) and Group B (requiring preoperative intravenous inotropic therapy, n = 32). Demographic data, intraoperative hemodynamics, anesthetic management, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Results: Etomidate (40%) was the most common induction agent, followed by esketamine (24%), midazolam (16%), and propofol (13%). Inhaled induction was rarely necessary (2%), occurring only in Group A patients. No statistical differences were found between groups for induction drug choice. Post‐cardiopulmonary bypass management included moderate hypoventilation, inhaled nitric oxide (100%), and hemodynamic support with milrinone (97%) and norepinephrine (77%). Group B patients more frequently required additional levosimendan (20%) and epinephrine (18%). Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was necessary in 8 patients (5%) with no between‐group differences. Switching from fentanyl to remifentanil reduced postoperative ventilation time overall. However, Group B experienced significantly longer ventilation (6.3 vs. 3.5 h) and ICU stay (22 vs. 14 days). In‐hospital mortality was 5% overall (Group A: 4%, Group B: 9%). Long‐term survival analysis revealed a significant advantage for Group A. Conclusion: The use of short‐acting opioids and adjusted ventilation modes enables optimal pulmonary blood flow and rapid transition to spontaneous breathing. Differentiated hemodynamic support with milrinone, norepinephrine, supplemented by levosimendan and epinephrine in high‐risk patients, can mitigate the effects on the preoperatively volume‐loaded right ventricle. However, differences in long‐term survival probability were observed between groups. Trial Registration: Local ethics committee, Medical Faculty, Justus‐Liebig‐University‐Giessen (Trial Code Number: 216/14). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluid resuscitation is of great importance in the management of major burns. Various formulae have been described for calculating fluid management, especially in severely burned patients. Although the Parkland formula is widely used, its efficacy and clinical value are discussed controversially. We investigated the impact of deviation from calculated fluid volume by Parkland formula and the maintenance i.v. fluid (Parkland*) on the outcome of burned pediatric patients. Patients aged < 16 years with thermal injuries included in the German Burn Registry between January 2016 and December 2022 with a total body surface area ≥ 15% were analyzed. Using mixed-effect negative binomial regression, the association between a deviation from Parkland* in the administered fluid volume and the primary outcome length of hospital stay was estimated—additionally adjusted for known risk factors. As a secondary outcome, we use in-hospital mortality, evaluated descriptively. In 86.5% of patients, the administered fluid volume was lower than Parkland*, with pronounced deviation in the seven patients who died in the hospital. Descriptively and based on mixed-effect negative binomial regression models, we found that a positive deviation from Parkland* increases the number of hospital days, whereas a negative deviation may decrease them. Conclusion: Very little is known about the role of administered resuscitation volumes for the outcome of pediatric severely burned patients. This study observed a tendency to a restricted resuscitation and its potential benefits in terms of length of hospital stay. What is Known: • Fluid resuscitation is an important aspect of therapy in the acute phase of children with extensive burns. • The Parkland formula is routinely used formula for determining fluid requirements. What is New: • 86.5 % received less volume than determined by Parkland and a tendency to restricted resuscitation and its potential benefits in terms of length of stay was observed. • There is still considerable lack of clarity, and a strictly individualized protocol with the support of formulas is of crucial importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy (IgAN) treatment consists of maximal supportive care and, for high-risk individuals, immunosuppressive treatment (IST). There are conflicting results regarding IST. Therefore, we aimed to investigate IST results among IgAN patients in Turkiye. The data of 1656 IgAN patients in the Primary Glomerular Diseases Study of the Turkish Society of Nephrology Glomerular Diseases Study Group were analyzed. A total of 408 primary IgAN patients treated with IST (65.4% male, mean age 38.4 ± 12.5 years, follow-up 30 (3–218) months) were included and divided into two groups according to treatment protocols (isolated corticosteroid [CS] 70.6% and combined IST 29.4%). Treatment responses, associated factors were analyzed. Remission (66.7% partial, 33.7% complete) was achieved in 74.7% of patients. Baseline systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and proteinuria levels were lower in responsives. Remission was achieved at significantly higher rates in the CS group (78% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.016). Partial remission was the prominent remission type. The remission rate was significantly higher among patients with segmental sclerosis compared to those without (60.4% vs. 49%, p = 0.047). In the multivariate analysis, MEST-C S1 (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.08–1.89, p = 0.013), MEST-C T1 (HR 0.68, 95% CI 0.51–0.91, p = 0.008) and combined IST (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.49–0.91, p = 0.009) were found to be significant regarding remission. CS can significantly improve remission in high-risk Turkish IgAN patients, despite the reliance on non-quantitative endpoints for favorable renal outcomes. Key predictors of remission include baseline proteinuria and specific histological markers. It is crucial to carefully weigh the risks and benefits of immunosuppressive therapy for these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analytical renal pathology system (ARPS) based on convolutional neural networks has been used successfully in native IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patients. Considering the similarity of pathologic features, we aim to evaluate the performance of the ARPS in allograft IgAN patients and broaden its implementation. Biopsy-proven allograft IgAN patients from two different centers were enrolled for internal and external validation. We implemented the ARPS to identify glomerular lesions and intrinsic glomerular cells, and then evaluated its performance. Consistency between the ARPS and pathologists was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients. The association of digital pathological features with clinical and pathological data was measured. Kaplan-Meier survival curve and cox proportional hazards model were applied to investigate prognosis prediction. A total of 56 biopsy-proven allograft IgAN patients from the internal center and 17 biopsy-proven allograft IgAN patients from the external center were enrolled in this study. The ARPS was successfully applied to identify the glomerular lesions (F1-score, 0.696–0.959) and quantify intrinsic glomerular cells (F1-score, 0.888–0.968) in allograft IgAN patients rapidly and precisely. Furthermore, the mesangial hypercellularity score was positively correlated with all mesangial metrics provided by ARPS [Spearman's correlation coefficient (r), 0.439–0.472, and all p values < 0.001]. Besides, a higher allograft survival was noticed among patients in the high-level groups of the maximum and ratio of endothelial cells, as well as the maximum and density of podocytes. We propose that the ARPS could be implemented in future clinical practice with outstanding capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is increasingly prevalent in children with nephrotic syndrome (NS). It is associated with adverse outcomes in NS, especially steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). The incidence, risk factors and outcomes of AKI in secondary SRNS remain undefined. The main objectives of this study were to determine the risk factors and prognosis of AKI in hospitalized children with secondary SRNS. This retrospective study was conducted from January 2014 to December 2019, involving 172 hospitalizations with secondary SRNS admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. AKI was defined and classified in accordance with the 2012 Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) guidelines. AKI was found in 67 (39.0%) of 172 hospitalizations with secondary SRNS. Average age of onset in our group is 4.4 (3.1, 6.7) years with AKI and 3.7 (1.8, 5.6) years without AKI. Urea nitrogen level is 5.9 (4.1, 10.0) mmol/L with AKI and 5.1 (3.7, 7.0) mmol/L. Uric acid level is 446.0 (340.0, 567.0) umol/L with AKI and 401.0 (303.0, 496.0) umol/L. 24-h urinary protein level is 4.14 (2.9, 6.5) g with AKI and 2.5 (1.3, 5.3) without AKI. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that infection (OR = 5.287; 95% confidence interval, 2.349 to 11.899; p < 0.001), age at onset (OR = 1.180; 95% confidence interval, 1.032 to 1.349; p = 0.015) and uric acid level (OR = 1.003; 95% confidence interval, 1.000 to 1.006; p = 0.031) were significantly associated with the development of AKI in children with secondary SRNS. Among 72 children with secondary SRNS, six went to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Children in the AKI group were more likely to progress to ESKD compared with children in the non-AKI group (p = 0.017) with a median follow‐up of 48.5months. AKI occurred in 39.0% of total hospitalizations associated with secondary SRNS. Risk factors including infection, age of onset, and uric acid level are associated with AKI in children with secondary SRNS. Furthermore, AKI was identified as a risk factor for the progression of secondary SRNS to ESKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Machine learning with center of pressure-based gait features predicts stroke outcomes. • Machine learning reveals nonlinear relationships between gait features and prognosis. • Early gait information combined with clinical data enhances predictive performance in stroke. To investigate whether machine learning (ML)-based center of pressure (COP) analysis for gait assessment, when used in conjunction with clinical information, offers additive benefits in predicting functional outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke. A prospective, single-center cohort study. A tertiary hospital setting. A total of 185 patients with acute ischemic stroke, capable of walking 10 m with or without a gait aid by day 7 postadmission. From these patients, 10,804 pairs of consecutive footfalls were included for analysis. Not applicable. The dependent variable was a 3-month poor functional outcome, defined as modified Rankin scale score ≥2. For independent variables, 65 clinical variables including demographics, anthropometrics, comorbidities, laboratory data, questionnaires, and drug history were included. Gait function was evaluated using a pressure-sensitive mat. Time-series COP data were parameterized into spatial and temporal variables and analyzed with logistic regression and 2 ML models (light gradient-boosting machine and multilayer perceptron [MLP]). We derived GAIT-AI output scores from the best-performing model analyzed COP data and constructed multivariable logistic regression models using clinical variables and the GAIT scores. Among the included patients, 70 (37.8%) experienced unfavorable outcomes. The MLP model demonstrated the highest predictive performance with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.799. Multivariable logistic regression identified age, initial National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and initial Fall Efficacy Scale-International as associated factors with unfavorable outcomes. The combined multivariable logistic regression incorporating COP-derived output scores improved the AUROC to 0.812. Gait function, assessed through COP analysis, serves as a significant predictor of functional outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke. ML-based COP analysis, when combined with clinical data, enhances the prediction of poor functional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the interaction between whole blood (WB) and blood component resuscitation in relation to mortality after trauma. Background: WB is increasingly available in civilian trauma resuscitation, and it is typically transfused concomitantly with blood components. The interaction between WB and blood component transfusions is unclear. Methods: Adult patients with trauma with a shock index > 1 who received = 4 combined units of red blood cells and/or WB within 4 hours across 501 U.S. trauma centers were included using the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program database. The associations between (1) WB resuscitation and mortality, (2) WB to total transfusion volume ratio (WB:TTV) and mortality, and (3) balanced blood component transfusion in the setting of combined WB and component resuscitation and mortality were evaluated with multivariable analysis. Results: A total of 12,275 patients were included (WB: 2884 vs component-only: 9391). WB resuscitation was associated with lower odds of 4-hour [adjusted odds ratio: 0.81 (0.68-0.97)], 24-hour, and 30-day mortality compared with component-only. Higher WB:TTV ratios were significantly associated with lower 4-hour, 24-hour, and 30-day mortality, with a 13% decrease in odds of 4-hour mortality for each 10% increase in the WB:TTV ratio [0.87 (95% CI: 0.80-0.94)]. Balanced blood component transfusion was associated with significantly lower odds of 4-hour [adjusted odds ratio: 0.45 (95% CI: 0.29-0.68)], 24-hour, and 30-day mortality in the setting of combined WB and blood component resuscitation. Conclusions: WB resuscitation, higher WB:TTV ratios, and balanced blood component transfusion in conjunction with WB were associated with lower mortality in patients with trauma presenting in shock requiring at least 4 units of red blood cells and/or WB transfusion within 4 hours of arrival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most patients receiving atezolizumab-bevacizumab (AB) for hepatocellular carcinoma will eventually experience disease progression. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are undergoing to identify second-line treatments. Where RCTs are unavailable or patients are non-eligible, sorafenib is often prescribed based on approval and reimbursement policies. However, evidence supporting this approach is minimal. To assess the efficacy and safety of sorafenib in patients who permanently discontinued AB. The ARTE database prospectively collects patients treated with AB in a real-life setting. We analysed the outcome of patients who received sorafenib as second-line treatment. Amongst 213 patients, 130 (61.0 %) permanently discontinued AB. Of them, 54 received second- line treatments, and sorafenib was prescribed in 40 patients. The disease control rate (DCR) was 10.0 %. The median progression-free (PFS) and overall survival were 3.3 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 2.7-3.9) and 6.9 months (95 % CI 2.7-11.1), respectively. In patients progressing under AB, the efficacy of sorafenib on different outcomes is limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pneumatic tourniquets are frequently employed in extremity surgeries, aiming to enhance intraoperative visibility and minimize blood loss. Although their benefits and drawbacks have been extensively studied in lower limb operations, their impact on upper limb procedures, particularly elbow surgery, remains poorly understood. This study investigates the advantages and risks associated with pneumatic tourniquet used in elbow surgery. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 183 patients who underwent elbow surgery for fractures between January 2019 and September 2023. Patients were categorized into 2 groups: those who underwent surgery with a tourniquet (WT) and those without a tourniquet (NT). Subgroup analyses were performed based on fracture complexity. Data collected included patient characteristics, tourniquet usage, surgical duration, pre- and postoperative hemoglobin levels, C-reactive protein levels, pain assessments, opioid administration, hospital stay duration, follow-up, complications, and revisions. Statistical analyses were used to identify significant differences and correlations. The use of a tourniquet in elbow surgery yielded several notable outcomes. Patients in the WT group experienced significantly shorter surgical durations and hospital stays. Hemoglobin drop was lower in the WT group, indicating reduced blood loss. However, there were no significant differences in postoperative pain, opioid consumption, or complications between the WT and NT groups. Subgroup analysis revealed that the recorded differences, particularly shorter surgical durations, were more pronounced in complex fractures. This study shows promising results in the use of pneumatic tourniquets in elbow surgery in terms of enhanced efficiency, reduced blood loss, and overall safety, without compromising patient outcomes. However, the potential influence of perioperative decision-making on tourniquet usage underscores the need for further research to elucidate its role and optimize its application, especially in complex elbow fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sepsis is a fatal condition with high treatment costs, early identification of sepsis is mandatory to avoid lethal complications. The objective of this study was to compare the predictive capabilities of platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PLR) and procalcitonin (PCT) in determining the outcome of sepsis. Methods: This study was a prospective cross-sectional study and fifty-four individuals diagnosed with sepsis were involved. The participants were between the ages of twenty-one and sixty-five and had been admitted to ICU for more than twenty-four hours. The measurement of whole blood count and PCT serum levels was conducted at time of diagnosis, as well as on days three, seven, and fourteen following the onset of sepsis while SOFA score was conducted at time of admission. Results: There was important elevation in platelet to lymphocytes ratio value and PCT in non survivors group compared to survivors group at day one, three, and seven of diagnosis of sepsis (p value ≤ 0.05), and day fourteen there were no data in non survivors group. The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score was found to be the most effective in mortality prediction [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.982] second effective was PCT (AUC = 0.977) and PLR was third (AUC = 0.945). Conclusions: In adult patients diagnosed with sepsis PLR with cutoff value > 228.89 demonstrates efficacy as a reliable prognostic indicator for predicting outcomes in sepsis. Although PLR may have a lower predictive power compared to PCT and SOFA score, it possesses the advantage of being a readily available and cost-effective technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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