Three-year efficacy and patency follow-up of decellularized human internal mammary artery as a novel vascular graft in animal models

Background

Various investigations have reported that the internal mammary artery (IMA) is an efficient and functional choice of conduit for vascular graft surgeries, especially for coronary artery bypass grafts; however, the quest to find an ideal vascular substitute remains. We hypothesized that acellular IMA could be an appropriate graft for small-diameter vascular bypasses that could be used in various surgeries including coronary artery bypass grafting.

Ostium primum atrial septal defect with persistent left superior vena cava opening into unroofed coronary sinus—A rare entity

Raghib syndrome is a rare developmental complex consisting of termination of the left superior vena cava in the left atrium, absence of the coronary sinus, and an atrial septal defect commonly located at the posterior‐inferior angle of the atrial septum. This complex was considered unique to Raghib syndrome; however, cases with a normal atrial septum have been reported where the orifice of the unroofed coronary sinus functions as the inter‐atrial communication. Our patient demonstrated an isolated persistent left superior vena cava draining into the left atrium through unroofed coronary sinus and presence of ostium primum atrial septal defect.     

Experiences of nursing home staff using the targeted interdisciplinary model for evaluation and treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms (TIME) – a qualitative study

Background/Aims: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in dementia pose great challenges for residents and staff in nursing homes. The Targeted Interdisciplinary Model for Evaluation and Treatment of Neuropsychiatric Symptoms (TIME) has recently in a randomized controlled trial demonstrated reductions in NPS. We explored the participating staff's experiences with the model and how it meets the challenges when dealing with the complexity of NPS.

Methods: Three to six months after the end of the intervention, we interviewed 32 of the caregivers, leaders, and physicians participating in the trial, in five focus groups. We used thematic content analysis.

Results: The analysis yielded two main themes: (1) a systematic reflection method enhanced learning at work; (2) the structure of the approach helped staff to cope with NPS in residents with dementia.

Conclusion: TIME shifts the way of learning for the staff from a traditional to a more innovative and reflection-based learning through a process of learning how to learn at work. The staff's experienced increased coping in their approach to complex problems. Our results emphasise the importance of a structured and biopsychosocial approach to NPS in clinical practice. Future research should explore models for integrating situated learning in daily routines in nursing homes.     

垫枕法联合经皮椎体成形术治疗老年骨质疏松胸腰椎压缩性骨折

目的：观察垫枕法联合经皮椎体成形术治疗老年骨质疏松胸腰椎压缩性骨折的效果。方法：选择老年骨质疏松胸腰椎压缩性骨折患者 40 例，予垫枕法联合经皮椎体成形术治疗，并观察患者术前及术后 1 个月在疼痛缓解、伤椎前缘高度、后凸畸形改善的情况。 结果：40 例患者术前疼痛视觉模拟评分（visual analogue scale，VAS）（6.76±1.16）、伤椎前缘高度（16.38±2.26）mm 及 Cobb 角（22.17±3.46）?，术后 1 个月 VAS 评分（2.34±0.73）、伤体前缘高度（28.45±6.46）mm及 Cobb 角（8.43±4.34）?，术后 1 个月患者在疼痛缓解、伤椎前缘高度、后凸畸形改善等方面较术前有明显区别（P<0.05）。结论：老年骨质疏松胸腰椎压缩性骨折经垫枕法联合经皮椎体成形术治疗，可明显减轻患者疼痛，改善后凸畸形。     

Evaluating the impact of a targeted brief HIV intervention on multiple inter-related HIV risk factors of knowledge and attitudes among incarcerated drug users

Increases in HIV prevalence indicate ongoing need for HIV interventions. A brief manualized intervention called the Texas Christian University (TCU) WaySafe, which addresses multiple HIV risks, was further evaluated to determine how it addressed individual’s knowledge deficiencies in the assessed risks. The sample of 1,256 offenders in eight correctional substance abuse treatment programs participated either in treatment as usual (TAU) or TCU WaySafe. From multivariate multilevel analysis, WaySafe was more effective in improving the greatest need area, whether knowledge, motivation, or confidence regarding HIV risky behaviors. Findings underscored the importance of addressing HIV risk areas with the greatest need for change and strengthens previous findings of the intervention’s potential for individuals with varying HIV risks.     

Augmented Vector Right ST-Segment Elevation: Pearls and Pitfalls

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is characterized by ST-segment elevation in at least 2 contiguous leads, chest discomfort, and the release of biomarkers requiring emergent revascularization. In 2013, the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association revised STEMI guidelines to include augmented vector right (aVR) ST-segment elevation to be treated as a STEMI equivalent. However, aVR ST-segment elevation with multilead ST depression can occur in presentations other than occlusive myocardial infarctions. The purpose of this clinical feature is to provide a brief review of aVR ST-segment elevation, explore approaches to clinical decision making, and provide tools to support nurse practitioners caring for patients with cardiac issues.