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Volume 10
Issue 12
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J. Clin. Med., Volume 10, Issue 12 (June-2 2021) – 207 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Beyond the optimal management of the traditional Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD) risk factors, infections should be considered as an important non-classical risk factor to enable early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. We summarized the currently available evidence regarding the role of inflammation in ASCVD and the association between the particular infections and pathogens on the development and progression of ASCVD. We also speculated about the potential therapeutic implications of the anti-inflammatory and anti-infective drugs on ASCVD outcomes, including drugs routinely administered in patients with ASCVD and novel strategies aiming at residual risk reduction. Considering the emerging association between infections and ASCVD, it is crucial to determine the possible advantages of infection prevention and treatment in patients with ASCVD. View this paper
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7 pages, 206 KiB  
Article
Risk Factors of Inadequate Bowel Preparation for Screening Colonoscopy
by Efrat L. Amitay, Tobias Niedermaier, Anton Gies, Michael Hoffmeister and Hermann Brenner
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2740; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122740 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3330
Abstract
The success of a colonoscopy in detecting and removing pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions depends heavily on the quality of bowel preparation. Despite efforts, 20–44% of colonoscopy participants have an inadequate bowel preparation. We aimed to assess and compare risk factors for inadequate bowel [...] Read more.
The success of a colonoscopy in detecting and removing pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions depends heavily on the quality of bowel preparation. Despite efforts, 20–44% of colonoscopy participants have an inadequate bowel preparation. We aimed to assess and compare risk factors for inadequate bowel preparation and for the presence of advanced colorectal neoplasms in routine screening practice. In this cross-sectional study, among 8125 participants of screening colonoscopy in Germany with a comprehensive assessment of sociodemographic factors, lifestyle and medical history, we examined factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation and with findings of advanced neoplasms using adjusted log-binomial regression models. Among the identified risk factors assessed, three factors were identified that were significantly associated with inadequate bowel preparation: age ≥ 70 years (adjusted prevalence ratios, aPR, 1.50 95%CI 1.31–1.71), smoking (aPR 1.29 95%CI 1.11–1.50) and abdominal symptoms (aPR 1.14 95%CI 1.02–1.27). The same risk factors were also associated with the prevalence of advanced neoplasms in our study (aPR 1.72, 1.62 and 1.44, respectively). The risk factors associated with inadequate bowel preparation in this study were also associated with a higher risk for advanced neoplasms. Inadequate bowel preparation for colonoscopy might lead to missed colorectal cancer (CRC) precursors and the late diagnosis of CRC. People at high risk of advanced neoplasms are in particular need of enhanced bowel preparation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current and Emerging Technologies & Applications of Endoscopy in Clinical Practice)
8 pages, 674 KiB  
Article
Hemoglobin A1c in Patients with Diabetes Predict Long-Term Mortality Following Coronary Artery Surgery
by Muhammad Abu Tailakh, Shlomo-yaron Ishay, Jenan Awesat, Liat Poupko, Gidon Sahar and Victor Novack
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2739; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122739 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2164
Abstract
Objective: to estimate the association between preoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels below and above 7%, and the rate of all-cause mortality (ACM) in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) within a ten-year follow-up period. Methods: we collected data on [...] Read more.
Objective: to estimate the association between preoperative hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels below and above 7%, and the rate of all-cause mortality (ACM) in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) within a ten-year follow-up period. Methods: we collected data on patient HbA1c levels that were measured up to 3 months prior to isolated CABG in consecutive patients with DM, and analyzed the rates of ACM over a median of a 5.9-year post-operative period. Results: preoperative HbA1c levels were collected in 579 DM patients. The mean HbA1c was 8.0 ± 1.7%, where 206 (35.6%) patients had an HbA1c ≤ 7% and 373 (64.4%) had an HbA1c > 7%. During the follow-up period, mortality rates were 20.4% and 28.7% in the HbA1c ≤ 7% and HbA1c > 7% groups, respectively (Kaplan-Meier estimates, log-rank p = 0.01). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression, adjusted for age, gender, smoking status, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, chronic renal failure, old myocardial infarction, number of coronary artery bypass surgeries, and post-operative glycemic control, showed a hazard ratio of 2.67 for long-term ACM (p = 0.001) in patients with HbA1c > 7%. Conclusions: DM patients with high HbA1c levels prior to CABG are at higher risk for long-term complications, especially late ACM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Current Clinical Treatments and Challenges for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD))
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13 pages, 1606 KiB  
Review
Patient-Self Inflicted Lung Injury: A Practical Review
by Guillaume Carteaux, Mélodie Parfait, Margot Combet, Anne-Fleur Haudebourg, Samuel Tuffet and Armand Mekontso Dessap
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2738; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122738 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 8166
Abstract
Patients with severe lung injury usually have a high respiratory drive, resulting in intense inspiratory effort that may even worsen lung damage by several mechanisms gathered under the name “patient-self inflicted lung injury” (P-SILI). Even though no clinical study has yet demonstrated that [...] Read more.
Patients with severe lung injury usually have a high respiratory drive, resulting in intense inspiratory effort that may even worsen lung damage by several mechanisms gathered under the name “patient-self inflicted lung injury” (P-SILI). Even though no clinical study has yet demonstrated that a ventilatory strategy to limit the risk of P-SILI can improve the outcome, the concept of P-SILI relies on sound physiological reasoning, an accumulation of clinical observations and some consistent experimental data. In this review, we detail the main pathophysiological mechanisms by which the patient’s respiratory effort could become deleterious: excessive transpulmonary pressure resulting in over-distension; inhomogeneous distribution of transpulmonary pressure variations across the lung leading to cyclic opening/closing of nondependent regions and pendelluft phenomenon; increase in the transvascular pressure favoring the aggravation of pulmonary edema. We also describe potentially harmful patient-ventilator interactions. Finally, we discuss in a practical way how to detect in the clinical setting situations at risk for P-SILI and to what extent this recognition can help personalize the treatment strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Acute Respiratory Failure)
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9 pages, 900 KiB  
Article
Adherence to European Guidelines for Treatment and Management of Pancreatic Exocrine Insufficiency in Chronic Pancreatitis Patients
by Mashroor Khan, Wiktor Rutkowski, Miroslav Vujasinovic and Johannes Matthias Löhr
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2737; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122737 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1987
Abstract
European evidence-based guidelines for the treatment and management of chronic pancreatitis (CP) have been made available following the harmonizing diagnosis and treatment of CP across Europe (HaPanEU) initiative by the United European Gastroenterology (UEG). The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence [...] Read more.
European evidence-based guidelines for the treatment and management of chronic pancreatitis (CP) have been made available following the harmonizing diagnosis and treatment of CP across Europe (HaPanEU) initiative by the United European Gastroenterology (UEG). The aim of this study was to evaluate adherence to the guideline recommendations in the management of patients with pancreatic exocrine insufficiency (PEI) at Karolinska University Hospital in Stockholm. UEG guideline recommendations were evaluated and categorized into 55 different quality indicators (QIs). Data from a retrospective cohort of CP patients being treated at Karolinska University Hospital were evaluated with regard to overall adherence as well as adherence to specific QIs. A total number of 118 patients out of 956 patients diagnosed with CP were eligible for inclusion with mean overall adherence of 61.9% to the defined QIs. A significant difference in mean overall adherence was shown between patients diagnosed with CP prior to 1 January 2016 and following 1 January 2016 (59.3% and 67.7% respectively, p = 0.004), with linear regression analysis also demonstrating improvement correlating to date of diagnosis (p = 0.002). In conclusion, diagnosis and treatment of PEI improved after the HaPanEU guidelines became available and is continuously improving; however, there is room for further improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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12 pages, 745 KiB  
Article
Computed Tomography in Adults with Bronchiectasis and Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Pulmonary Disease: Typical Imaging Findings
by Sabine Dettmer, Felix C. Ringshausen, Jan Fuge, Hannah Louise Maske, Tobias Welte, Frank Wacker and Jessica Rademacher
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2736; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122736 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5249
Abstract
Among patients with bronchiectasis, nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) ranged between 1 and 6% and it is suspected that its prevalence is underestimated. Our aim was to evaluate differences in computed tomography (CT) features in patients with bronchiectasis, with and without NTM-PD, in [...] Read more.
Among patients with bronchiectasis, nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease (NTM-PD) ranged between 1 and 6% and it is suspected that its prevalence is underestimated. Our aim was to evaluate differences in computed tomography (CT) features in patients with bronchiectasis, with and without NTM-PD, in order to facilitate earlier diagnosis in the future. In addition, we evaluated longitudinal changes after successful NTM-PD treatment. One hundred and twenty-eight CTs performed in adults with bronchiectasis were scored for the involvement, type, and lobar distribution of bronchiectasis, bronchial dilatation, and bronchial wall thickening according to Reiff. In addition, associated findings, such as mucus plugging, tree-in-bud, consolidations, ground-glass opacities, interlobular thickening, intralobular lines, cavities, and atelectasis, were registered. Patients with NTM-PD (n = 36), as defined by ATS/IDSA diagnostic criteria, were compared to bronchiectasis patients without NTM-PD (n = 92). In twelve patients with an available consecutive CT scan after microbiological cure of NTM-PD imaging findings were also scored according to Kim and compared in the course. In patients with NTM-PD, there was a higher prevalence of bronchiectasis in the middle lobes (p < 0.001), extended bronchiolitis (p = 0.032) and more small and large nodules (p < 0.001). Furthermore, cavities turned out to be larger (p = 0.038), and walls thickened (p = 0.019) and extended (p = 0.016). Patients without NTM more often showed peripheral ground-glass opacities (0.003) and interstitial changes (p = 0.001). CT findings decreased after successful NTM-PD treatment in the follow-up CT; however, without statistical significance for most features (p = 0.056), but bronchiolitis was the only significantly reduced score item (p = 0.043). CT patterns in patients with bronchiectasis and NTM-PD differ from those of patients with bronchiectasis without NTM-PD, although the findings are non-specific radiological features. Follow-up CT findings after microbiological cure differed interindividual regarding the decline in imaging features. Our findings may help practitioners to identify NTM-PD in patients with bronchiectasis. Further research is needed regarding the use of CT as a potential imaging biomarker for the evaluation of treatment response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bronchiectasis in Adults: Aetiology and New Therapies)
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8 pages, 446 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 in the Vaginal Secretions of Women with COVID-19: A Prospective Study
by Elad Barber, Michal Kovo, Sophia Leytes, Ron Sagiv, Eran Weiner, Orna Schwartz, Margarita Mashavi, Keren Holtzman, Jacob Bar, Anat Engel and Shimon Ginath
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2735; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122735 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5253
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to investigate the likelihood of vaginal colonization with Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in pregnant and non-pregnant women with Coronavrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: Vaginal swabs were taken from women diagnosed with mild to moderately acute [...] Read more.
Objective: We aimed to investigate the likelihood of vaginal colonization with Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in pregnant and non-pregnant women with Coronavrus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Materials and Methods: Vaginal swabs were taken from women diagnosed with mild to moderately acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, at Wolfson Medical Center, Israel, from March 2020 through October 2020. COVID-19 was diagnosed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) performed on nasopharyngeal swabs. Vaginal swabs were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: In total, 51 women diagnosed with COVID-19 were included in the study. Of the 51 women with COVID-19 enrolled in this study, 16 (31.4%) were pregnant at enrollment and 35 (68.6%) were non-pregnant. Mean age was 43.5 ± 15.3 years (range 21–74 years). Compared to the non-pregnant group, the pregnant group was characterized by a higher white blood cell and absolute neutrophil count (p = 0.02 and p = 0.027, respectively). The non-pregnant patients were more likely to have chronic diseases (p = 0.035) and to be hospitalized (p < 0.001). Only one patient (1.9%) aged 60 years tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 in vaginal secretions. Mean gestational age at the diagnosis of COVID-19 of the pregnant group was 32.3 ± 7.8 weeks. Thirteen patients delivered during the study period; all delivered at term without obstetric complications and all neonates were healthy. Conclusions: Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the vaginal secretions of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 is rare. Vaginal colonization may occur during the viremia phase of the disease, although infectivity from vaginal colonization needs to be proven. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue COVID-19 and Pregnancy)
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11 pages, 1149 KiB  
Article
Corticosteroid Resistance in Smokers—A Substudy Analysis of the CORTICO-COP Randomised Controlled Trial
by Pradeesh Sivapalan, Andras Bikov, Charlotte Suppli Ulrik, Therese Sophie Lapperre, Alexander G. Mathioudakis, Mats Christian Højberg Lassen, Kristoffer Grundtvig Skaarup, Tor Biering-Sørensen, Jørgen Vestbo and Jens-Ulrik S. Jensen
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2734; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122734 - 21 Jun 2021
Viewed by 2548
Abstract
The CORTICO-COP trial showed that eosinophil-guided corticosteroid-sparing treatment for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was non-inferior to standard of care and decreased the accumulated dose of systemic corticosteroids that patients were exposed to by approximately 60%. Smoking status has been shown [...] Read more.
The CORTICO-COP trial showed that eosinophil-guided corticosteroid-sparing treatment for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was non-inferior to standard of care and decreased the accumulated dose of systemic corticosteroids that patients were exposed to by approximately 60%. Smoking status has been shown to affect corticosteroid responsiveness. This post hoc analysis investigated whether eosinophil-guided treatment is non-inferior to conventional treatment in current smokers. The main analysis of current smokers showed no significant difference in the primary endpoint, days alive, and out of hospital within 14 days between the control group (mean, 9.8 days; 95% confidence interval (CI), 8.7–10.8) and the eosinophil-guided group (mean, 8.7 days; 95% CI, 7.5–9.9; p = 0.34). Secondary analyses of the number of exacerbations or deaths, the number of intensive care unit admissions or deaths, lung function improvement, and change in health-related quality of life also showed no significant differences between the two groups. The results of a sensitivity analysis of ex-smokers are consistent with the main analysis. Our results suggest that eosinophil-guided treatment is non-inferior to standard of care in current smokers and ex-smokers. Because data on the impact of smoking status on eosinophil-guided treatments are sparse, more randomised trials are needed to confirm our results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives in Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
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15 pages, 679 KiB  
Review
Incidence of Fat Embolism Syndrome in Femur Fractures and Its Associated Risk Factors over Time—A Systematic Review
by Maximilian Lempert, Sascha Halvachizadeh, Prasad Ellanti, Roman Pfeifer, Jakob Hax, Kai O. Jensen and Hans-Christoph Pape
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2733; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122733 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5353
Abstract
Background: Fat embolism (FE) continues to be mentioned as a substantial complication following acute femur fractures. The aim of this systematic review was to test the hypotheses that the incidence of fat embolism syndrome (FES) has decreased since its description and that specific [...] Read more.
Background: Fat embolism (FE) continues to be mentioned as a substantial complication following acute femur fractures. The aim of this systematic review was to test the hypotheses that the incidence of fat embolism syndrome (FES) has decreased since its description and that specific injury patterns predispose to its development. Materials and Methods: Data Sources: MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for articles from 1 January 1960 to 31 December 2019. Study Selection: Original articles that provide information on the rate of FES, associated femoral injury patterns, and therapeutic and diagnostic recommendations were included. Data Extraction: Two authors independently extracted data using a predesigned form. Statistics: Three different periods were separated based on the diagnostic and treatment changes: Group 1: 1 January 1960–12 December 1979, Group 2: 1 January 1980–1 December 1999, and Group 3: 1 January 2000–31 December 2019, chi-square test, χ2 test for group comparisons of categorical variables, p-value < 0.05. Results: Fifteen articles were included (n = 3095 patients). The incidence of FES decreased over time (Group 1: 7.9%, Group 2: 4.8%, and Group 3: 1.7% (p < 0.001)). FES rate according to injury pattern: unilateral high-energy fractures (2.9%) had a significantly lower FES rate than pathological fractures (3.3%) and bilateral high-energy fractures (4.6%) (p < 0.001). Conclusions: There has been a significant decrease in the incidence of FES over time. The injury pattern impacts the frequency of FES. The diagnostic and therapeutic approach to FES remains highly heterogenic to this day. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery - State of the Art and Future Perspectives)
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12 pages, 1214 KiB  
Article
The Addition of Transarterial Chemoembolization to Palliative Chemotherapy Extends Survival in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
by Simon Johannes Gairing, Felix Thol, Lukas Müller, Felix Hahn, Thomas Thomaidis, Carolin Czauderna, Fabian Bartsch, Michael Bernhard Pitton, Jens Uwe Marquardt, Marcus-Alexander Wörns, Peter Robert Galle, Markus Moehler, Arndt Weinmann, Roman Kloeckner and Friedrich Foerster
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2732; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122732 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2031
Abstract
Incidence and mortality of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) have been increasing continuously. Recent studies suggest that the combination of palliative chemotherapy (pCTX) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) improves overall survival (OS). This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of patients treated with TACE and pCTX [...] Read more.
Incidence and mortality of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) have been increasing continuously. Recent studies suggest that the combination of palliative chemotherapy (pCTX) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) improves overall survival (OS). This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of patients treated with TACE and pCTX in unresectable iCCA at our tertiary care center. A group of 14 patients was treated with both pCTX and TACE. The non-randomized control group of 59 patients received pCTX alone. Patients received a median of two pCTX lines in both groups. Those treated with TACE underwent a median number of 3.5 sessions. Median OS from the time of unresectability was 26.2 months in the pCTX + TACE group versus 13.1 months in the pCTX group (p = 0.008). Controlling for albumin, bilirubin, ECOG (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) performance status, and UICC (Union for International Cancer Control) stage, the addition of TACE still conferred an OS benefit of 12.95 months (p = 0.014). A propensity score matching analysis yielded an OS benefit of 14 months from the time of unresectability for the pCTX + TACE group (p = 0.020). The addition of TACE to pCTX may provide an OS benefit for patients with unresectable iCCA. Thus, patients with liver-dominant iCCA undergoing standard-of-care pCTX should be considered for additional treatment with TACE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma)
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8 pages, 531 KiB  
Article
Carboxyhemoglobinemia in Critically Ill Coronavirus Disease 2019 Patients
by Hina Faisal, Syeda T. Ali, Jiaqiong Xu, Tariq Nisar, Mahmoud Sabawi, Eric Salazar and Faisal N. Masud
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2731; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122731 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2263
Abstract
Carboxyhemoglobinemia is a common but a serious disorder, defined as an increase in carboxyhemoglobin level. Unfortunately, there are few data on carboxyhemoglobinemia in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the incidence and etiologies of carboxyhemoglobinemia in COVID-19 patients [...] Read more.
Carboxyhemoglobinemia is a common but a serious disorder, defined as an increase in carboxyhemoglobin level. Unfortunately, there are few data on carboxyhemoglobinemia in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the incidence and etiologies of carboxyhemoglobinemia in COVID-19 patients and determine any association between carboxyhemoglobinemia and novel coronavirus infection. A retrospective chart review was performed at an academic medical center for all inpatient COVID-19 cases with either single or serial carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels from March 2020 through August 2020.Our study demonstrates that carboxyhemoglobinemia in COVID-19 patients is due to sepsis, hemolysis, and cytokine storm, triggered by the novel coronavirus infection sequela and is not directly from the virulence of novel coronavirus. Given the coexisting illnesses in critically ill COVID-19 patients, it is impossible to establish if coronavirus virulence was the culprit of elevated COHb levels. Moreover, our study found a high incidence of carboxyhemoglobinemia in critically ill COVID-19 patients. The oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry can be inaccurate and unreliable; however, our study could not demonstrate any uniform results on the discrepancy between oxygen saturation measured by pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas. In this study, COHb levels were measured using a CO-oximeter. Therefore, we recommend monitoring the COHb level routinely in critically ill COVID-19 patients to allow more effective and prompt treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Intensive Care)
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12 pages, 312 KiB  
Review
Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
by Lorenzo Marinelli, Fabio Lanfranco, Giovanna Motta and Marco Zavattaro
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2730; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122730 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3463
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) seems to be a widespread sexual issue in men affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Multiple causes appear to be involved such as hormonal imbalance, smoking habit, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, chronic hypoxia, psychiatric disorders (depression and anxiety), and [...] Read more.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) seems to be a widespread sexual issue in men affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Multiple causes appear to be involved such as hormonal imbalance, smoking habit, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, chronic hypoxia, psychiatric disorders (depression and anxiety), and medications. ED can have a significant impact on COPD men and consequently on their quality of life, which is usually already compromised. Given this situation, however, pneumologists usually do not properly care for the sexuality of COPD patients especially because men can be reluctant to talk about their intimate issues. The aim of this narrative review is to briefly summarize the evidence emerging from literature and to provide a wide point of view about sexual dysfunction in COPD men. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Erectile Dysfunction in Men with Chronic Diseases: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Management)
13 pages, 1431 KiB  
Article
Uric Acid as a Predictor for Early Allograft Dysfunction after Living Donor Liver Transplantation: A Prospective Observational Study
by Li-Min Hu, Hsin-I Tsai, Chao-Wei Lee, Hui-Ming Chen, Wei-Chen Lee and Huang-Ping Yu
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2729; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122729 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1550
Abstract
Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) is a postoperative complication that may cause graft failure and mortality after liver transplantation. The objective of this study was to examine whether the preoperative serum uric acid (SUA) level may predict EAD. We performed a prospective observational study, [...] Read more.
Early allograft dysfunction (EAD) is a postoperative complication that may cause graft failure and mortality after liver transplantation. The objective of this study was to examine whether the preoperative serum uric acid (SUA) level may predict EAD. We performed a prospective observational study, including 61 donor/recipient pairs who underwent living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). In the univariate and multivariate analysis, SUA ≤4.4 mg/dL was related to a five-fold (odds ratio (OR): 5.16, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.41–18.83; OR: 5.39, 95% CI: 1.29–22.49, respectively) increased risk for EAD. A lower preoperative SUA was related to a higher incidence of and risk for EAD. Our study provides a new predictor for evaluating EAD and may exert a protective effect against EAD development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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6 pages, 435 KiB  
Article
Hypercoagulability Evaluation in Antiphospholipid Syndrome without Anticoagulation Treatment with Thrombin Generation Assay: A Preliminary Study
by Paul Billoir, Sébastien Miranda, Herve Levesque, Ygal Benhamou and Véronique Le Cam Duchez
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2728; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122728 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1746
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with thrombotic events (tAPS) and/or obstetrical morbidity (oAPS), with persisting antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Despite an update of aPL in 2006, several patients had typical clinical events without the classical biological criteria. The aim of our study was to [...] Read more.
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is associated with thrombotic events (tAPS) and/or obstetrical morbidity (oAPS), with persisting antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Despite an update of aPL in 2006, several patients had typical clinical events without the classical biological criteria. The aim of our study was to evaluate the hypercoagulability state with both thrombin generation (TG) profiles and activated protein C resistance (aPCR) in different types of APS. Methods: We retrospectively included 41 patients with Sydney criteria classification (tAPS, oAPS) and no clinical manifestation of APS with persistent aPL (biological APS). A thrombin generation assay was performed with a Fluoroskan Ascent fluorometer in platelet-poor plasma (PPP). Activated protein C resistance was measured as a ratio: ETP+aPC/ETP-aPC × 100. Results: Thrombotic APS and oAPS had an increase of global thrombin generation (ETPcontrol = 808 nM.min (756–853) vs. 1265 nM.min (956–1741) and 1863 nM.min (1434–2080), respectively) (Peakcontrol = 78 nM (74–86) vs. 153 nM (109–215) and 254 nM.min (232–289), respectively). Biological APS had only a lag time increase (Tcontrol = 4.89 ± 1.65 min vs. 13.6 ± 3.9 min). An increased aPCR was observed in tAPS (52.7 ± 16.4%), oAPS (64.1 ± 14.6%) as compared to the control group (27.2 ± 13.8%). Conclusion: Our data suggest an increase of thrombin generation in thrombotic and obstetrical APS and no hypercoagulable states in patients with biological APS. The study of a prospective and a larger controlled cohort could determine the TGA useful for APS monitoring and could confirm an aPCR evaluation in PPP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management, Diagnosis and Pathophysiology of Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Current Updates and Future Approaches)
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10 pages, 1126 KiB  
Article
Therapeutic Efficacy of Autologous Platelet Concentrate Injection on Macular Holes with High Myopia, Large Macular Holes, or Recurrent Macular Holes: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
by Mirinae Kim, Jae-Yon Won, Seung-Yong Choi, Minhee Kim, Ho Ra, Donghyun Jee, Jin-Woo Kwon, Kui-Dong Kang, Young-Jung Roh, Young-Gun Park, Seungbum Kang, Jeong-Ah Shin, Hyeon-Woo Yim and Young-Hoon Park
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2727; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122727 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1800
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of pars-plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without autologous platelet concentrate (APC) injection in patients with recurrent macular holes (MHs), large MHs, or MHs with high myopia. This multicenter, prospective, interventional randomized controlled trial was [...] Read more.
We aimed to evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of pars-plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without autologous platelet concentrate (APC) injection in patients with recurrent macular holes (MHs), large MHs, or MHs with high myopia. This multicenter, prospective, interventional randomized controlled trial was conducted from March 2017 to April 2020. Participants were randomly allocated to a PPV group or a PPV+APC group. All participants underwent standard 25-gauge PPV, and eyes in the PPV+APC group underwent PPV with intravitreal APC injection before air-gas exchange. A total of 117 patients were enrolled (PPV group: n = 59, PPV+APC group: n = 58). Hole closure was achieved in 47 participants (79.7%) in the PPV group and 52 participants (89.7%) in the PPV+APC group. There were no between-group differences in the anatomical closure rate or functional outcomes including best-corrected visual acuity, metamorphopsia, pattern-reversal visual evoked potential, or Visual Function Questionnaire-25 score. The use of APC injection does not improve the anatomical and functional outcomes of surgery for large MHs, recurrent MHs, or MHs with high myopia. The adjunctive use of APC can be considered in selected cases because it is not inferior to conventional MH surgery, is relatively simple to perform, and is not affected by the surgeon’s skill. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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7 pages, 579 KiB  
Article
B-Type Natriuretic Peptides and High-Sensitive Troponin I as COVID-19 Survival Factors: Which One Is the Best Performer?
by Renato de Falco, Maria Vargas, Daniela Palma, Marcella Savoia, Anna Miscioscia, Biagio Pinchera, Martina Vano, Giuseppe Servillo, Ivan Gentile and Giuliana Fortunato
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2726; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122726 - 21 Jun 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1837
Abstract
Increased concentrations of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity troponin I (HsTnI) in COVID-19 patients have already been reported. The aim of this study is to evaluate which of these common markers of cardiac disease is the most [...] Read more.
Increased concentrations of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high-sensitivity troponin I (HsTnI) in COVID-19 patients have already been reported. The aim of this study is to evaluate which of these common markers of cardiac disease is the most useful predictor of fatal outcome in COVID-19 patients. One hundred and seventy-four patients affected with COVID-19 were recruited, and markers of cardiac disease and the clinical history of the patients were collected at admission in the infectious disease unit or intensive care unit. NT-proBNP, BNP and HsTnI values were higher in in-hospital non-surviving patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis of NT-proBNP, BNP and HsTnI was performed, with NT-proBNP (AUC = 0.951) and HsTnI (AUC = 0.947) being better performers (p = 0.01) than BNP (AUC = 0.777). Logistic regression was performed assessing the relation of HsTnI and NT-proBNP to fatal outcome adjusting for age and gender, with only NT-proBNP being significant. The population was then divided into two groups, one with higher NT-proBNP values at admission than the cut-off resulted from the ROC curve (511 ng/L) and a second one with lower values. The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed an absence of fatal outcome in the group of patients with NT-proBNP values lower than the cut-off (p < 0.001). NT-proBNP proved to be the best prognostic tool for fatal outcome among markers of cardiac disease in COVID-19 patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology & Public Health)
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11 pages, 2373 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Development of a New Sponge-Based Delivery System for Intracanal Antimicrobial Administration in Endodontic Treatment
by Ruíz-Piñón Manuel, Gancedo-Gancedo Tania, Seoane-Prado Rafael, Pérez-Estévez Antonio, Blanco-Méndez José, Luzardo-Álvarez Asteria, Castelo-Baz Pablo, Lorenzo-Pouso Alejandro, Álvarez-Novoa Pablo and Martín-Biedma Benjamín
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2725; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122725 - 21 Jun 2021
Viewed by 1870
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro performance of collagen-based sponges as a drug delivery system for intracanal antimicrobial administration. Four groups of loaded collagen-based sponges (A, 0.3% w/v amoxicillin trihydrate: potassium clavulanate (4:1); B, 0.03% w/v chlorhexidine [...] Read more.
This study aimed to evaluate the in vitro performance of collagen-based sponges as a drug delivery system for intracanal antimicrobial administration. Four groups of loaded collagen-based sponges (A, 0.3% w/v amoxicillin trihydrate: potassium clavulanate (4:1); B, 0.03% w/v chlorhexidine gluconate [CHX]; C, 0.3% w/v amoxicillin trihydrate: potassium clavulanate (4:1) and 0.03% w/v CHX; D, 1% w/v amoxicillin trihydrate: potassium clavulanate (4:1) and 0.03% w/v CHX) were designed. Release kinetics were tested in vitro on cultures in Petri dishes, and the effect on bacterial biofilms was studied ex vivo on 114 extracted human single-rooted teeth. Biofilm formation was tested by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Collagen sponges containing amoxicillin and chlorhexidine showed a time-sustained antimicrobial effect in vitro and were also able to destroy mature biofilms ex vivo. This datum was validated by means of SEM-based study of E. faecalis and S. aureus biofilms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)
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12 pages, 1561 KiB  
Article
Bariatric Surgery Affects Plasma Levels of Alanine Aminotransferase Independent of Weight Loss: A Registry-Based Study
by Shira Azulai, Ronit Grinbaum, Nahum Beglaibter, Shai Meron Eldar, Moshe Rubin, Shai Carmi, Rachel Ben-Haroush Schyr, Orly Romano-Zelekha and Danny Ben-Zvi
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2724; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122724 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2396
Abstract
Patients that undergo bariatric surgery experience weight loss and a reduction in the plasma levels of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). We used the Israeli national bariatric registry, which includes demographic, clinical, and biochemical data on 19,403 patients, [...] Read more.
Patients that undergo bariatric surgery experience weight loss and a reduction in the plasma levels of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). We used the Israeli national bariatric registry, which includes demographic, clinical, and biochemical data on 19,403 patients, of which 1335 patients had two-year follow-up data on ALT, AST, A1C, and BMI, to test the dependence of the reduction in the levels of ALT and AST on weight loss. The data were analyzed using regression models, retrospective matching, and time course analyses. Changes in liver enzymes did not correlate with change in BMI, and linear regression models did not demonstrate that the change in ALT and AST values were dependent on pre-operative levels of BMI or the extent of weight loss. ALT and AST levels were reduced two years after surgery compared with a cohort of retrospectively matched patients for ethnicity, sex, age, BMI, and A1C. Finally, patients who regained weight displayed a reduction in levels of liver enzymes. Our results suggest that bariatric surgery affects AST and ALT levels via weight loss dependent and independent mechanisms. Mechanistic studies that will identify the nature of this effect and the clinical relevance of ALT and AST levels to the post-bariatric liver function are warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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20 pages, 345 KiB  
Review
Total Pancreatectomy with Autologous Islet Cell Transplantation—The Current Indications
by Beata Jabłońska and Sławomir Mrowiec
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2723; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122723 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2821
Abstract
Total pancreatectomy is a major complex surgical procedure involving removal of the whole pancreatic parenchyma and duodenum. It leads to lifelong pancreatic exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. The control of surgery-induced diabetes (type 3) requires insulin therapy. Total pancreatectomy with autologous islet transplantation (TPAIT) [...] Read more.
Total pancreatectomy is a major complex surgical procedure involving removal of the whole pancreatic parenchyma and duodenum. It leads to lifelong pancreatic exocrine and endocrine insufficiency. The control of surgery-induced diabetes (type 3) requires insulin therapy. Total pancreatectomy with autologous islet transplantation (TPAIT) is performed in order to prevent postoperative diabetes and its serious complications. It is very important whether it is safe and beneficial for patients in terms of postoperative morbidity and mortality, and long-term results including quality of life. Small duct painful chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a primary indication for TPAIT, but currently the indications for this procedure have been extended. They also include hereditary/genetic pancreatitis (HGP), as well as less frequent indications such as benign/borderline pancreatic tumors (intraductal papillary neoplasms, neuroendocrine neoplasms) and “high-risk pancreatic stump”. The use of TPAIT in malignant pancreatic and peripancreatic neoplasms has been reported in the worldwide literature but currently is not a standard but rather a controversial management in these patients. In this review, history, technique, indications, and contraindications, as well as short-term and long-term results of TPAIT, including pediatric patients, are described. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Islet Cell Transplantation for Treatment of Pancreatic Diseases)
12 pages, 1977 KiB  
Review
Sitafloxacin for Third-Line Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Systematic Review
by Toshihiro Nishizawa, Munkhbayar Munkjargal, Hirotoshi Ebinuma, Osamu Toyoshima and Hidekazu Suzuki
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2722; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122722 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2560
Abstract
Background and Aim: Sitafloxacin-based therapy is a potent candidate for third-line Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment. In this systematic review, we summarise current reports with sitafloxacin-based therapy as a third-line treatment. Methods: Clinical studies were systematically searched using PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of Science, [...] Read more.
Background and Aim: Sitafloxacin-based therapy is a potent candidate for third-line Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment. In this systematic review, we summarise current reports with sitafloxacin-based therapy as a third-line treatment. Methods: Clinical studies were systematically searched using PubMed, Cochrane library, Web of Science, and the Igaku-Chuo-Zasshi database. We combined data from clinical studies using a random-effects model and calculated pooled event rates, 95% confidence intervals (CIs), and the pooled odds ratio (OR). Results: We included twelve clinical studies in the present systematic review. The mean eradication rate for 7-day regimens of either PPI (proton pump inhibitor) or vonoprazan–sitafloxacin–amoxicillin was 80.6% (95% CI, 75.2–85.0). The vonoprazan–sitafloxacin–amoxicillin regimen was significantly superior to the PPI–sitafloxacin–amoxicillin regimen (pooled OR of successful eradication: 6.00; 95% CI: 2.25–15.98, p < 0.001). The PPI–sitafloxacin–amoxicillin regimen was comparable with PPI–sitafloxacin–metronidazole regimens (pooled OR: 1.06; 95% CI: 0.55–2.07, p = 0.86). Conclusions: Although the 7-day regimen composed of vonoprazan, sitafloxacin, and amoxicillin is a good option as the third-line Helicobacter pylori eradication treatment in Japan, the extension of treatment duration should be considered to further improve the eradication rate. Considering the safety concern of fluoroquinolones, sitafloxcin should be used after confirming drug susceptibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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11 pages, 1817 KiB  
Article
Rectus Femoris Mimicking Ultrasound Phantom for Muscle Mass Assessment: Design, Research, and Training Application
by Nobuto Nakanishi, Shigeaki Inoue, Rie Tsutsumi, Yusuke Akimoto, Yuko Ono, Joji Kotani, Hiroshi Sakaue and Jun Oto
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2721; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122721 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3616
Abstract
Ultrasound has become widely used as a means to measure the rectus femoris muscle in the acute and chronic phases of critical illness. Despite its noninvasiveness and accessibility, its accuracy highly depends on the skills of the technician. However, few ultrasound phantoms for [...] Read more.
Ultrasound has become widely used as a means to measure the rectus femoris muscle in the acute and chronic phases of critical illness. Despite its noninvasiveness and accessibility, its accuracy highly depends on the skills of the technician. However, few ultrasound phantoms for the confirmation of its accuracy or to improve technical skills exist. In this study, the authors created a novel phantom model and used it for investigating the accuracy of measurements and for training. Study 1 investigated how various conditions affect ultrasound measurements such as thickness, cross-sectional area, and echogenicity. Study 2 investigated if the phantom can be used for the training of various health care providers in vitro and in vivo. Study 1 showed that thickness, cross-sectional area, and echogenicity were affected by probe compression strength, probe angle, phantom compression, and varying equipment. Study 2 in vitro showed that using the phantom for training improved the accuracy of the measurements taken within the phantom, and Study 2 in vivo showed the phantom training had a short-term effect on improving the measurement accuracy in a human volunteer. The new ultrasound phantom model revealed that various conditions affected ultrasound measurements, and phantom training improved the measurement accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Emergency Medicine)
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14 pages, 1127 KiB  
Article
Effects of Monotherapy with Clopidogrel vs. Aspirin on Vascular Function and Hemostatic Measurements in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: The Prospective, Crossover I-LOVE-MONO Trial
by Hyun-Woong Park, Min-Gyu Kang, Jong-Hwa Ahn, Jae-Seok Bae, Udaya S. Tantry, Paul A. Gurbel and Young-Hoon Jeong
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2720; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122720 - 20 Jun 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3320
Abstract
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of clopidogrel vs. aspirin monotherapy on vascular function and hemostatic measurement. Background: Monotherapy with P2Y12 receptor inhibitor vs. aspirin can be a useful alterative to optimize clinical efficacy and safety in high-risk patients with coronary artery disease [...] Read more.
Objectives: To evaluate the effect of clopidogrel vs. aspirin monotherapy on vascular function and hemostatic measurement. Background: Monotherapy with P2Y12 receptor inhibitor vs. aspirin can be a useful alterative to optimize clinical efficacy and safety in high-risk patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: We performed a randomized, open-label, two-period crossover study in stented patients receiving at least 6-month of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Thirty CAD patients with moderate-to-high ischemic risk were randomly assigned to receive either 75 mg of clopidogrel or 100 mg of aspirin daily for 4 weeks, and were crossed over to the other strategy for 4 weeks. Vascular function was evaluated with reactive hyperemia-peripheral arterial tonometry (RH-PAT) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). Hemostatic profiles were measured with VerifyNow and thromboelastography (TEG). The primary endpoint was the reactive hyperemia index (RHI) during clopidogrel or aspirin monotherapy. Results: Clopidogrel vs. aspirin monotherapy was associated with better endothelial function (RHI: 2.11 ± 0.77% vs. 1.87 ± 0.72%, p = 0.045), lower platelet reactivity (130 ± 64 vs. 214 ± 50 P2Y12 reaction unit [PRU], p < 0.001) and prolonged reaction time (TEG R: 5.5 ± 1.2 vs. 5.1 ± 1.1 min, p = 0.037). In multivariate analysis, normal endothelial function (RHI ≥ 2.1) was significantly associated with clot kinetics (TEG angle ≤ 68 degree) and ‘PRU ≤ 132’. ‘PRU ≤ 132’ was achieved in 46.2% vs. 3.8% during clopidogrel administration vs. aspirin monotherapy (odds ratio 21.4, 95% confidence interval 2.7 to 170.1, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In CAD patients, clopidogrel vs. aspirin monotherapy was associated with better endothelial function, greater platelet inhibition and lower coagulation activity, suggesting pleiotropic effects of clopidogrel on endothelial function and hemostatic profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art: Post-percutaneous Coronary Intervention Pharmacotherapy)
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20 pages, 1389 KiB  
Article
Impact of Bundle Branch Block on Permanent Pacemaker Implantation after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Meta-Analysis
by Justine M. Ravaux, Michele Di Mauro, Kevin Vernooy, Silvia Mariani, Daniele Ronco, Jorik Simons, Arnoud W. Van't Hof, Leo Veenstra, Suzanne Kats, Jos G. Maessen and Roberto Lorusso
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2719; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122719 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2646
Abstract
Data regarding the impact of infra-Hisian conduction disturbances leading to permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remain limited. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of right and/or left bundle branch block (RBBB/LBBB) on post-TAVI PPI. [...] Read more.
Data regarding the impact of infra-Hisian conduction disturbances leading to permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remain limited. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of right and/or left bundle branch block (RBBB/LBBB) on post-TAVI PPI. We performed a systematic literature review to identify studies reporting on RBBB and/or LBBB status and post-TAVI PPI. Study design, patient characteristics, and the presence of branch block were analyzed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CI were extracted. The final analysis included 36 studies, reporting about 55,851 patients. Data on LBBB were extracted from 33 studies. Among 51,026 patients included, 5503 showed pre-implant LBBB (11.9% (10.4%–13.8%)). The influence of LBBB on post-TAVI PPI was not significant OR 1.1474 (0.9025; 1.4588), p = 0.2618. Data on RBBB were extracted from 28 studies. Among 46,663 patients included, 31,603 showed pre-implant RBBB (9.2% (7.3%–11.6%)). The influence of RBBB on post-TAVI PPI was significant OR 4.8581 (4.1571; 5.6775), p < 0.0001. From this meta-analysis, the presence of RBBB increased the risk for post-TAVI PPI, independent of age or LVEF, while this finding was not confirmed for patients experimenting with LBBB. This result emphasizes the need for pre-operative evaluation strategies in patient selection for TAVI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Management of Cardiovascular Disease)
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12 pages, 2063 KiB  
Article
Increased Serum Levels of Activated Caspases in Murine and Human Biliary Atresia
by Omid Madadi-Sanjani, Gunnar Bohlen, Fabian Wehrmann, Julia Andruszkow, Karim Khelif, Reinhard von Wasielewski, Heike Bantel and Claus Petersen
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122718 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1675
Abstract
In biliary atresia (BA), apoptosis is part of the pathomechanism, which results in progressive liver fibrosis. There is increasing evidence suggesting that apoptotic liver injury can be non-invasively detected by measuring the caspase activity in the serum. The purpose of this study was [...] Read more.
In biliary atresia (BA), apoptosis is part of the pathomechanism, which results in progressive liver fibrosis. There is increasing evidence suggesting that apoptotic liver injury can be non-invasively detected by measuring the caspase activity in the serum. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether serological detection of caspase activation mirrors apoptotic liver injury in the infective murine BA-model and represents a suitable biomarker for BA in humans. Analysis showed increased caspase-3 activity and apoptosis in the livers of cholestatic BALB/c mice, which correlated significantly with caspase activation in the serum. We then investigated caspase activation and apoptosis in liver tissues and sera from 26 BA patients, 23 age-matched healthy and 11 cholestatic newborns, due to other hepatopathies. Compared to healthy individuals, increased caspase activation in the liver samples of BA patients was present. Moreover, caspase-3 activity was significantly higher in sera from BA infants compared to patients with other cholestatic diseases (sensitivity 85%, specificity 91%). In conclusion, caspase activation and hepatocyte apoptosis play an important role in experimental and human BA. We demonstrated that serological detection of caspase activation represents a reliable non-invasive biomarker for monitoring disease activity in neonatal cholestatic liver diseases including BA. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
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12 pages, 1404 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Effectiveness and Safety of Tafluprost, Travoprost, and Latanoprost in Korean Patients with Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma or Normal-Tension Glaucoma: A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study (LOTUS Study)
by Joon-Mo Kim, Kyung-Rim Sung, Hwang-Ki Kim, Sang-Woo Park, Eun-Ji Lee, Jin-Wook Jeoung, Hae-Young Lopilly Park, Jaehong Ahn, Chungkwon Yoo and Chan-Yun Kim
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2717; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122717 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3154
Abstract
This multicenter retrospective cohort study compared the effectiveness and safety of long-term tafluprost, travoprost, or latanoprost in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). Data were extracted from electronic medical records of 300 patients treated with tafluprost, travoprost, or latanoprost [...] Read more.
This multicenter retrospective cohort study compared the effectiveness and safety of long-term tafluprost, travoprost, or latanoprost in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) or normal-tension glaucoma (NTG). Data were extracted from electronic medical records of 300 patients treated with tafluprost, travoprost, or latanoprost for >6 months. Propensity matching for age and sex was used for effectiveness and safety comparisons. The primary endpoint was visual field (VF) progression via mean deviation (MD) slope. Secondary endpoints were change of MD, intraocular pressure, pattern standard deviation, VF index, and advanced glaucoma intervention study score. Treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were also compared between groups. Overall, 216 POAG or NTG patients were matched into Match Set 1 (72 patients/group), and 177 NTG-only patients in Match Set 2 (59 patients/group) according to: age (mean: 61, 62 years) and sex (male: 53, 56%). There were no statistically significant between-group differences regarding MD slope (p = 0.413, p = 0.374 in Match Sets 1 and 2, respectively). There were no significant between-group differences/tendencies regarding secondary endpoints. No AEs were serious, and there were no significant between-group differences regarding reported AEs. In patients with POAG or NTG, long-term tafluprost, travoprost, or latanoprost showed similar effects. All three prostaglandin analogs had good long-term safety profiles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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8 pages, 219 KiB  
Article
Realistic Advantages of Early Surgical Drain Removal after Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Single-Institution Retrospective Study
by So-Jeong Yoon, So-Kyung Yoon, Ji-Hye Jung, In-Woong Han, Dong-Wook Choi, Jin-Seok Heo and Sang-Hyun Shin
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2716; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122716 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1520
Abstract
The latest guidelines from the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society stated that early drain removal after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is beneficial in decreasing complications including postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs). This study aimed to ascertain the actual benefits of early drain removal [...] Read more.
The latest guidelines from the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) Society stated that early drain removal after pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is beneficial in decreasing complications including postoperative pancreatic fistulas (POPFs). This study aimed to ascertain the actual benefits of early drain removal after PD. The data of 450 patients who underwent PD between 2018 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. The surgical outcomes were compared between patients whose drains were removed within 3 postoperative days (early removal group) and after 5 days (late removal group). Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the risk factors for clinically relevant POPFs (CR-POPFs). Among the patients with drain fluid amylase < 5000 IU on the first postoperative day, the early removal group had fewer complications and shorter hospital stays than the late removal group (30.9% vs. 54.5%, p < 0.001; 9.8 vs. 12.5 days, p = 0.030, respectively). The incidences of specific complications including CR-POPFs were comparable between the two groups. Risk factor analysis showed that early drain removal did not increase CR-POPFs (p = 0.163). Although early drain removal has not been identified as apparently beneficial, this study showed that it may contribute to an early return to normal life without increasing complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatopancreatobiliary Medicine)
18 pages, 1559 KiB  
Article
Chemokine/Cytokine Levels Correlate with Organ Involvement in PR3-ANCA-Associated Vasculitis
by Janina Müller-Deile, Christian Jaremenko, Hermann Haller, Mario Schiffer, Marion Haubitz, Silke Christiansen, Christine Falk and Lena Schiffer
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2715; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122715 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2151
Abstract
Background: ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare small vessel disease characterized by multi-organ involvement. Biomarkers that can measure specific organ involvement are missing. Here, we ask whether certain circulating cytokines and chemokines correlate with renal involvement and if distinct cytokine/chemokine patterns can differentiate [...] Read more.
Background: ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) is a rare small vessel disease characterized by multi-organ involvement. Biomarkers that can measure specific organ involvement are missing. Here, we ask whether certain circulating cytokines and chemokines correlate with renal involvement and if distinct cytokine/chemokine patterns can differentiate between renal, ear/nose/throat, joints, and lung involvement of AAV. Methods: Thirty-two sets of Birmingham vasculitis activity score (BVAS), PR3-ANCA titers, laboratory marker, and different cytokines were obtained from 17 different patients with AAV. BVAS, PR3-ANCA titers, laboratory marker, and cytokine concentrations were correlated to different organ involvements in active AAV. Results: Among patients with active PR3-AAV (BVAS > 0) and kidney involvement we found significant higher concentrations of chemokine ligand (CCL)-1, interleukin (IL)-6, IL21, IL23, IL-28A, IL33, monocyte chemoattractant protein 2 (MCP2), stem cell factor (SCF), thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), and thrombopoietin (TPO) compared to patients without PR3-ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis. Patients with ear, nose, and throat involvement expressed higher concentrations of MCP2 and of the (C-X-C motif) ligand-12 (CXCL-12) compared to patients with active AAV and no involvement of these organs. Conclusion: We identified distinct cytokine patterns for renal manifestation and for ear, nose and throat involvement of PR3-AAV. Distinct plasma cytokines might be used as non-invasive biomarkers of organ involvement in AAV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vascular Medicine)
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15 pages, 1630 KiB  
Article
Altered Cardiovascular Reactivity to and Recovery from Cold Face Test-Induced Parasympathetic Stimulation in Essential Hypertension
by Lisa-Marie Walther, Roland von Känel, Nadja Heimgartner, Claudia Zuccarella-Hackl, Ulrike Ehlert and Petra H. Wirtz
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2714; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122714 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2134
Abstract
Essential hypertension is associated with increased sympathetic and diminished parasympathetic activity as well as impaired reactivity to sympathetic stimulation. However, reactivity and recovery from parasympathetic stimulation in hypertension are unknown. We investigated reactivity and recovery to primarily parasympathetic stimulation by Cold Face Test [...] Read more.
Essential hypertension is associated with increased sympathetic and diminished parasympathetic activity as well as impaired reactivity to sympathetic stimulation. However, reactivity and recovery from parasympathetic stimulation in hypertension are unknown. We investigated reactivity and recovery to primarily parasympathetic stimulation by Cold Face Test (CFT) in essential hypertension. Moreover, we tested whether chronic stress modulates CFT-reactivity dependent on hypertension status. The CFT was conducted by applying a cold face-mask for 2 min in 24 unmedicated, otherwise healthy hypertensive men and in 24 normotensive controls. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were measured repeatedly. Chronic stress was assessed with the Trier-Inventory-for-Chronic-Stress-Screening-Scale. Hypertensives did not exhibit diastolic BP decreases after CFT-cessation (p = 0.59) as did normotensives (p = 0.002) and failed to show HR decreases in immediate response to CFT (p = 0.62) when compared to normotensives (p < 0.001). Systolic BP reactivity and recovery patterns did not differ between hypertensives and normotensives (p = 0.44). Chronic stress moderated HR (p = 0.045) but not BP CFT-reactivity (p′s > 0.64) with chronically stressed normotensives showing similar HR reactivity as hypertensives. Our findings indicate impaired diastolic BP and HR reactivity to and recovery from CFT in hypertensives and a moderating effect of chronic stress on HR reactivity potentially reflecting reduced relaxation ability of the cardiovascular system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Stress and Psychological Trauma on the Development and Progression of Cardiovascular Diseases)
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13 pages, 2805 KiB  
Review
Safety and Efficacy of SGLT2 Inhibitors: A Multiple-Treatment Meta-Analysis of Clinical Decision Indicators
by Vicente Martínez-Vizcaíno, Ana Díez-Fernández, Celia Álvarez-Bueno, Julia Martínez-Alfonso and Iván Cavero-Redondo
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2713; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122713 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5242
Abstract
To jointly assess the safety and effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cardiorenal outcomes and all-cause mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis, systematically [...] Read more.
To jointly assess the safety and effectiveness of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on cardiorenal outcomes and all-cause mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis, systematically searching the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Web of Science databases up to September 2020. Primary outcomes were composite major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), hospitalization for heart failure, all-cause mortality and a composite renal outcome. We performed a random effects network meta-analysis estimating the pooled hazard ratio (HR), risk ratio and number needed to treat (NNT). Six trials evaluating empagliflozin, canagliflozin, dapagliflozin and ertugliflozin met the inclusion/exclusion criteria, which comprised 46,969 patients, mostly with established CVD. Pooled estimates (95% CI) of benefits of SGLT2i in terms of HR and NNT were as follows: for all-cause mortality, 0.85 (0.75, 0.97) and 58 (28, 368); for MACE, 0.91 (0.85, 0.97) and 81 (44, 271); for hospitalization for heart failure, 0.70 (0.62, 0.78) and 32 (20, 55); and for composite renal outcome, 0.61 (0.50, 0.74) and 20 (11, 44). Pooled estimates for serious adverse events were 0.92 (95% CI 0.89, 0.95). In patients with T2DM at cardiovascular risk, ertugliflozin is a less potent drug than empagliflozin, canagliflozin or dapagliflozin to prevent cardiorenal events and all-cause mortality. In addition, our data endorse that empagliflozin is the best treatment option among SGLT2i for this type of patient, but the evidence is not consistent enough. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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9 pages, 2370 KiB  
Article
Role of Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Dental Treatment in the Management of Odontogenic Sinusitis Due to Endodontic Disease and Oroantral Fistula
by Anda Gâta, Corneliu Toader, Dan Valean, Veronica Elena Trombitaș and Silviu Albu
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2712; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122712 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4441
Abstract
Background: Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) is frequently encountered in ENT practice; however, there are no guidelines regarding its management. This study aims to analyse the results of endoscopic sinus surgery versus dental treatment in ODS. Additionally, we aim to demonstrate the benefit of associating [...] Read more.
Background: Odontogenic sinusitis (ODS) is frequently encountered in ENT practice; however, there are no guidelines regarding its management. This study aims to analyse the results of endoscopic sinus surgery versus dental treatment in ODS. Additionally, we aim to demonstrate the benefit of associating endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) to surgical closure of chronic oroantral fistulas (OAF) by comparing mean time to healing in patients who opted or not for concurrent ESS. Methods: Records of patients with ODS were reviewed. Group one consisted of patients with ODS caused by periapical pathology undergoing either endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) or dental treatment. Resolution of ODS was considered treatment success and was compared between the two treatment strategies. Group two included patients with ODS and associated chronic oroantral communication. Time to healing was compared between patients undergoing OAF closure alone versus patients receiving associated ESS, using the Log-Rank test to correlate Kaplan–Meier curves. Results: 25 patients from a total of 45 in group one underwent dental treatment alone, and 20 opted for exclusive ESS treatment. The failure rate was 40% for patients treated with ESS compared to 4% (one patient) for dental treatment. ODS resolved in all patients in the second group, but the mean time to healing was half (10 days) when ESS was complementary to OAF closure. Conclusion: The present study represents the first estimator of the role ESS plays in OAF treatment. Nonetheless, it provides proof of the importance of first addressing dental problems in odontogenic sinusitis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Otolaryngology)
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17 pages, 3021 KiB  
Review
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Relating Biomechanics and Prognosis
by Benjamin M. MacCurtain, Ned P. Quirke, Stephen D. Thorpe and Tom K. Gallagher
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(12), 2711; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10122711 - 19 Jun 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4934
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer and carries a dismal prognosis. Resectable patients are treated predominantly with surgery while borderline resectable patients may receive neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) to downstage their disease prior to possible resection. PDAC tissue [...] Read more.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer and carries a dismal prognosis. Resectable patients are treated predominantly with surgery while borderline resectable patients may receive neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) to downstage their disease prior to possible resection. PDAC tissue is stiffer than healthy pancreas, and tissue stiffness is associated with cancer progression. Another feature of PDAC is increased tissue heterogeneity. We postulate that tumour stiffness and heterogeneity may be used alongside currently employed diagnostics to better predict prognosis and response to treatment. In this review we summarise the biomechanical changes observed in PDAC, explore the factors behind these changes and describe the clinical consequences. We identify methods available for assessing PDAC biomechanics ex vivo and in vivo, outlining the relative merits of each. Finally, we discuss the potential use of radiological imaging for prognostic use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pancreatic Cancer: Challenges and Breakthroughs)
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