Generalized,severe epidermolysis bullosa simplex caused by a Keratin 5 p.E477K mutation

Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) is a skin fragility disorder resulting from mutations of structural proteins in the epidermis. We provide a brief report of long‐term survival and reproduction in a mother with EBS due to keratin 5 (KRT5) c.1429G > A (p.E477K) mutation, which causes a particularly severe form of the disease.     

Bone mineral density testing in healthy postmenopausal women. The role of clinical risk factor assessment in determining fracture risk.

The ease of measurement and the quantitative nature of bone mineral densitometry (BMD) is clinically appealing. Despite BMD's proven capability to stratify fracture risk, data indicate that clinical risk factors provide complementary information on fracture susceptibility that is independent of BMD. Methods to quantify fracture risk using both clinical and BMD variables would have great appeal for clinical decision-making. We describe a procedure for quantifying hip fracture risk (5-yr and remaining lifetime) based on (1) the individual's age alone (base model, assuming average clinical risk factors and bone density), (2) incorporation of multiple patient-specific clinical risk factor data in the base model, and (3) incorporation of both patient-specific clinical risk factor data and BMD results.     

Mesh fixation with human fibrin glue (Tissucol) in open tension-free inguinal hernia repair: a preliminary report

Background: The Lichtenstein technique for inguinal hernia repair is easy to learn and associated with few complications. However, recent studies have suggested that this technique is inferior to some ‘sutureless’ repair systems in terms of perceived difficulty, operating time, surgeon satisfaction, etc. Methods: We employed a sutureless Lichtenstein technique in 80 consecutive patients with primary unilateral inguinal hernia, to assess patient and trainee surgeon outcomes. Human fibrin glue was used in place of conventional sutures. Results: The mean operating time was 36 min and all patients were discharged 5–6 h after the operation. On a 100-point visual analogue scale, the surgeons rated the difficulty of the operation as low (mean score, 31), and perceived satisfaction as high (mean score, 84). No complications were observed at 12-month follow-up. Conclusion: This study confirms the efficacy of mesh fixation with human fibrin glue, and supports the viability of a sutureless Lichtenstein procedure.     

RN-BSN programs: associate degree and diploma nurses' perceptions of the benefits and barriers to returning to school.

The nursing profession is facing a serious shortage in all areas including BSN completion programs. The purpose of this study was to explore associate degree and diploma nurses' perceptions of the benefits and barriers to RN-BSN programs. In addition, factors that would facilitate degree completion in academia and work environments were examined.