Socioeconomic Status Correlates With Initial Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Pain Interference (PROMIS-PI) Scores but Not the Likelihood of Spine Surgery.

Objective To explore how socioeconomic status and patient characteristics may be associated with initial self-reports of pain and determine if there was an increased association with undergoing spine surgery. Methods Patients at an academic center between 2015 and 2021 who completed the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Pain Interference (PROMIS-PI) questionnaire were included. Multivariable linear regression models were used to determine the association between insurance type and patient factors with initial reports of pain. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the association between PI and the likelihood of surgery in two time periods, three and 12 months. Results The study included 9,587 patients. The mean PROMIS-PI scores were 61.93 (SD 7.82) and 63.74 (SD 6.93) in the cervical and lumbar cohorts, respectively. Medicaid and Workers' Compensation insurance patients reported higher pain scores compared to those with private insurance: Medicaid (cervical: 2.77, CI (1.76-3.79), p<0.001; lumbar (2.05, CI (1.52-2.59), p<0.001); Workers' Compensation (cervical: 2.12, CI (0.96-3.27), p<0.001; lumbar: 1.51, CI (0.79-2.23), p<0.001). Black patients reported higher pain compared to White patients (cervical: 1.50, CI (0.44-2.55), p=0.01; lumbar: 1.51, CI (0.94-2.08), p<0.001). Higher PROMIS-PI scores were associated with a higher likelihood of surgery. There was no increased association of likelihood of surgery in Black, Medicaid, or Workers' Compensation patients when controlling for pain severity. Conclusion Black patients and patients with Medicaid and Workers' compensation insurance were likely to report higher pain scores. Higher initial pain scores were associated with an increased likelihood of surgery. However, despite increased pain scores, Black patients and those with Medicaid and Workers' Compensation insurance did not have a higher likelihood of undergoing surgery.

Arthroscopic subacromial decompression improved outcomes in situationally depressed patients compared to clinically depressed or nondepressed patients.

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate patient reported outcomes after arthroscopic extensive débridement of the shoulder with subacromial decompression (SAD) for subacromial impingement using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) system and evaluate if depression (Dep) (clinical or situational) impacts patients achieving a Minimal Clinically Important Difference (MCID). Methods: Preoperative PROMIS Physical function (PF), Mood, and Dep scores were obtained at the closest date prior to arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and postoperative scores were collected at every clinical visit thereafter. Final PROMIS score used for data analysis was determined by the patients final PROMIS value between 90 to 180 days. Clinical Dep was determined by patients having a formal diagnosis of "Depression or Major Depressive Disorder" at the time of their surgery. Situationally depressed patients, those without a formal diagnosis yet exhibited symptomatic depressive symptoms, were classified by having a PROMIS-Dep cutoff scores larger than 52.5. Results: A total of 136 patients were included for final statistical analysis. 13 patients had a clinical but not situational diagnosis of Dep, 86 patients were identified who had no instance of clinical or situational Dep (nondepressed). 35 patients were situationally depressed. All three cohorts demonstrated a significant improvement in postoperative PROMIS Dep, PI, and PF score relative to their preoperative value (P = .001). Situationally depressed patients achieved greater delta PROMIS-Dep compared to patients with major depressive disorder. Depressed patients had a higher chance of achieving MCID for PROMIS-Dep compared to nondepressed patients (P = .01). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that underlying Dep did not alter the odds of obtaining MCID compared to nondepressed patients. Nonsmoking patients had significantly greater odds of achieving MCID for PF (P = .02). Discussion: Patients improved after undergoing SAD regardless of underlying Dep or depressive symptoms. Depressed patients exhibited greater change in PROMIS scores compared to nondepressed patients. Smoking remains a risk factor for postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing SAD for subacromial impingement. Identifying and counseling patients with underlying depressive symptoms without a formal major depressive disorder diagnosis may lead to improved outcomes. These findings may help guide clinicians in deciding who would benefit the most from this procedure.

Using PROMIS Scores to Provide Cost-Conscious Follow-up After Foot and Ankle Surgery.

BACKGROUND: National campaigns in the United States, such as Choosing Wisely, emphasize that decreasing low-value office visits maximizes health care value. Although patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are frequently used to quantify postoperative outcomes, they have not been assessed as a tool to help guide clinicians consider alternatives or discontinue in-person follow-up visits. The purpose of this study is to assess the frequency and cost of in-person follow-up visits after patients report substantial improvement defined as 2 consecutive improvements above preoperative Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) pain interference (PI) scores. METHODS: Retrospective PROMIS PI data were obtained between 2015 and 2020 for common elective foot (n = 759) and ankle (n = 578) surgical procedures. Patients were divided into quartiles according to their preoperative PI score. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate time to substantial improvement. Substantial improvement was defined as having 2 consecutive postoperative minimal clinically important differences (MCIDs) above preoperative PROMIS PI scores. MCID was measured using the distribution-based method. Multivariable negative binomial models were used to determine the number of visits and direct associated costs after substantial improvement. The cost to payors was estimated using reimbursement rates. RESULTS: Within 3 months, 12% to 46% of foot and 16% to 61% of ankle patients achieved substantial improvement. Results vary by preoperative pain quartile, with patients who report higher preoperative pain scores achieving earlier improvement. After achieving substantial improvement, foot and ankle patients averaged 3.60 and 4.01 follow-up visits during the remaining 9 months of the year. Visit costs averaged $266 and $322 per foot and ankle patient respectively. CONCLUSION: Postoperative follow-up visits are time-consuming and costly. Physicians might consider objective measures, such as PROMIS PI, to determine the need, timing, and alternatives for in-person follow-up visits for elective foot and ankle surgeries after patients demonstrate reliable clinical improvement. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, retrospective cohort study at a single institution.

CYP2D6 genotyping and the clinical impact on outcomes in breast cancer tamoxifen-treated patients.

Aims: To report the distribution of allele frequencies of CYP2D6 gene and to evaluate their influence on the clinical outcomes of a group of breast cancer patients receiving adjuvant tamoxifen treatment from Uruguay. Patients & methods: 199 samples were genotyped through real-time polymerase chain reaction assays. Metabolization profiles were inferred from the genotypes. Correlations were evaluated using Pearson's χ2 test. Results: Phenotype frequencies were 0.65 normal (NM), 0.30 intermediate (IM) and 0.05 poor metabolizers (PM). Similar clinical outcomes between NM and (PM + IM) patient groups (odds ratio = 1.011, 95% CI = 0.2703-3.7826; p = 0.987) were found. Conclusion: CYP2D6 allele frequencies were analyzed for the first time in a cohort from Uruguay. Results did not support any impact of CYP2D6 gene polymorphisms on clinical outcomes.

Racial/ethnic and income-based differences in the use of surgery for cervical and lumbar disorders in New York State: a retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: The extent to which use of spine surgeries for patients with cervical and lumbar disorders varies by their race/ethnicity and income is currently unknown. PURPOSE: To assess racial/ethnic and income-based differences in use of spine surgery in New York State (NYS) from 2016 to 2019. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective observational analysis using 2016 to 2019 New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) data, direct standardization, and multivariable mixed-effects linear regression models. METHODS: A dataset of patients who underwent surgery for cervical and spinal disorders in NYS in the period 2016 to 2019 was used to determine county-level age- and sex-standardized annual cervical and lumbar surgery rates expressed as number of surgeries per 10,000 individuals. Further sub-analysis was performed with the key independent variables being the combination of individual-level race/ethnicity (non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic individuals) and income (low-/high-income residing in zip codes below/above state median income); and year. We estimated multivariable mixed-effects linear regression models which controlled county-level variables to determine the adjusted rates of spine surgeries for patients belonging to various race/ethnicity and income group combinations. RESULTS: The study included 29,650 and 42,498 patients in the cervical and lumbar cohorts, respectively. In 2019, the county-level mean cervical and lumbar surgery rates were 3.88 and 5.19 surgeries per 10,000 individuals, respectively. There was a five-fold rate variation across NYS. In 2019, the adjusted cervical rates were 4.59 (White low-income), 4.96 (White high-income), 7.20 (Black low-income), 3.01 (Black high-income), 4.37 (Hispanic low-income), and 1.17 (Hispanic high-income). The adjusted lumbar rates were 5.49 (White low-income), 6.31 (White high-income), 9.43 (Black low-income), 2.47 (Black high-income), 4.22 (Hispanic low-income), and 2.02 (Hispanic high-income). The rates for low-income Black or Hispanic patients were significantly higher than their high-income counterparts. Low-income Black patients had the highest rates. Over the study period, the gap/difference increased significantly between high-income Hispanic and White individuals by 2.19 (95% confidence interval [CI]: -4.27, -0.10, p=.04) for cervical surgery; and between low-income Black and White individuals by 2.82 (2.82, 95% CI: 0.59, 5.06, p=.01) for lumbar surgery. CONCLUSION: There are differences in the rates of spine surgery in New York State, among identifiable groups. Black individuals from poorer zip codes experience relatively higher spine surgery rates. Understanding the drivers of surgical rate variation is key to improving the equitable delivery of spine care. A better understanding of such rate variations could inform health policy.

Use of Area Deprivation Index to Predict Minimal Clinically Important Difference for Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

BACKGROUND: Socioeconomic disparities correlate with worse outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. However, use of a surrogate to describe socioeconomic disadvantage has been a challenge. The Area Deprivation Index (ADI) is a tool that encompasses 17 socioeconomic variables into a single metric based on census location. HYPOTHESIS: Higher ADI would result in a worse minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) and have less improvement in range of motion (ROM) following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR). STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHOD: A retrospective review was performed for patients who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Patients in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged quartile (ADIHigh) were compared with the least disadvantaged quartile (ADILow) in the ability to reach MCID. Demographic and surgical features were assessed for attainment of MCID. RESULTS: In total 1382 patients were identified who underwent ARCR, of which a total of 306 patients met final inclusion criteria. A higher percentage of patients within the ADIHigh cohort identified as "Black" or "other" race and had government-issued insurance compared with the ADILow cohort (P < .05). The ADIHigh cohort had significantly worse postoperative forward flexion compared with the ADILow cohort (145.0°± 32.5° vs 156.3°± 23.4°; P = .001) despite starting with comparable preoperative ROM (P = .17). Logistic regression showed that ADI was the only variable significant for predicting achievement of MCID for all 3 PROMIS domains, with the ADIHigh cohort having significantly worse odds of achieving MCID Physical Function (odds ratio [OR], 0.31; P = .001), Pain Interference (OR, 0.21; P = .001), and Depression (OR, 0.28; P = .001). Meanwhile, age, sex, body mass index, and smoking history were nonsignificant. Moreover, "other" for race and Medicare insurance were significant for achievement of MCID Depression but not Physical Function or Pain Interference. Finally, ADI was the main feature for predictive logistic regression modeling. CONCLUSION: ADI served as the only significant predictor for achieving MCID for all 3 PROMIS domains after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Patients who face high levels of socioeconomic disadvantage have lower rates of achieving MCID. In addition, patients with greater neighborhood disadvantage demonstrated significantly worse improvement in active forward flexion. Further investigation is required to understand the role of ADI on physical therapy compliance and to identify the barriers that prevent equitable postoperative care.

Effect of Insurance Reimbursement Status on Pre- and Postoperative Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Scores After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies reported inferior patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for patients receiving workers' compensation (WC) relative to patients with commercial insurance. The extent to which alternative insurance reimbursement, including Medicaid and Medicare, influences outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair remains understudied. HYPOTHESIS: Compared with patients with commercial insurance reimbursement, patients with WC or government-issued reimbursement would report lower pre- and postoperative Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF) scores, report higher pre- and postoperative PROMIS Depression (D) and Pain Interference (PI) scores, and experience smaller levels of improvement in all PROMIS domains with surgical intervention. STUDY DESIGN: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS: Demographic and surgical data were extracted from the medical record, and PROMIS domains were prospectively collected. Patients were divided into cohorts based on insurance reimbursement status. Differences between insurance-based cohorts for baseline variables, pre- and postoperative PROMIS scores, and change from baseline to final follow-up (delta) for PROMIS scores were evaluated using Kruskal-Wallis or chi-square tests. Mixed-effects linear regression models were performed to assess the influence of insurance while controlling for other variables. Survival analysis was performed to determine time to achieve minimal clinically important difference (MCID) for each PROMIS domain per cohort. RESULTS: 1252 patients underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, met inclusion criteria, and completed PROMIS questionnaires. Statistically significant differences were noted in demographic variables including age (P < .001), sex (P < .001), ethnicity (P < .001), and body mass index (P < .001) between insurance-based cohorts. Unadjusted analysis revealed significantly higher PF scores and lower PI and D scores for the group with commercial insurance relative to those with Medicare, Medicaid, and WC at 6- and 12-month follow-up (P < .01 all comparisons), except for the Medicare versus commercial subcohort analysis for PI at 6 months (P = .28). These differences persisted for the Medicare, Medicaid, and WC groups (P < .03 all comparisons) after adjustment for confounding variables in linear regression. CONCLUSIONS: The baseline characteristics of patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair differed based on insurance reimbursement. Patients with commercial insurance reported improved physical function, decreased pain interference, and improved mood (less depression) relative to patients with government-issued and WC insurance, with maximum improvement 6 to 12 months postoperatively. There were few significant differences between insurance groups in change of PROMIS scores from preoperative to postoperative intervals, indicating that differences in the baseline demographic and surgical characteristics of these groups accounted for differences in response to surgery.

Characterization of patients diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis in a fourth level hospital from Cali, 2014-2020

Introduction: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the liver, rarely identified by clinicians to the point of being detected in late stages. It is rare, although there is a lack of epidemiological data. Early diagnosis has implications for the outcomes and development of advanced liver disease. This study describes sociodemographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics, treatments received and their response and outcomes of interest in adult patients diagnosed with AIH treated at a university hospital in Cali, Colombia. Materials and methods: This observational historical cohort study included patients over 18 years of age of both sexes diagnosed with definitive AIH treated in the emergency services, outpatient clinic, intensive care, and hospitalization at the Fundación Valle del Lili University Hospital between January 2014 and December 2020. Results: 81 patients met the inclusion criteria; 86% were women. The median age was 49 (30-61), and autoimmune disease was comorbidity in 28.4%. Regarding pharmacological treatment, prednisolone and azathioprine were the most frequently used for induction and maintenance. The regimen of prednisolone or prednisolone with azathioprine was used in 79%. Four patients underwent liver transplantation, with no acute liver failure cases. There was only one case of mortality not related to AIH during follow-up. Conclusion: Patients with definitive AIH are mostly middle-aged adults and women, as found in the literature, with a low percentage of cirrhosis and, in earlier stages, low mortality and liver transplantation requirement. The low percentage of liver biopsy is the most critical limitation in the diagnosis and, therefore, in the outcomes of undiagnosed patients.

Introducción: la hepatitis autoinmune (HAI) es una enfermedad inflamatoria crónica del hígado poco identificada por los clínicos, al punto de detectarse en estadios tardíos. Es poco frecuente, aunque hay falta de datos epidemiológicos. El diagnóstico temprano tiene implicaciones en los desenlaces y aparición de enfermedad hepática avanzada. El objetivo de este estudio es describir las características sociodemográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio, así como los tratamientos recibidos y la respuesta a estos, y los desenlaces de interés de los pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de hepatitis autoinmune atendidos en un hospital universitario de la ciudad de Cali, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional de cohorte histórica que incluyó a pacientes mayores de 18 años de ambos sexos con diagnóstico de HAI con puntaje definitivo atendidos en los servicios de urgencias, consulta externa, cuidado intensivo y hospitalización en el Hospital Universitario Fundación Valle del Lili entre enero de 2014 y diciembre de 2020. Resultados: un total de 81 pacientes cumplió los criterios de inclusión. El 86% de los pacientes eran mujeres, la mediana de edad fue de 49 años (de 30 a 61) y hubo presencia de enfermedad autoinmune como comorbilidad en el 28,4%. Sobre el tratamiento farmacológico, prednisolona y azatioprina fueron los medicamentos más frecuentemente utilizados para el tratamiento de inducción y mantenimiento. El esquema de prednisolona o prednisolona con azatioprina se aplicó en el 79%. Cuatro pacientes fueron llevados a trasplante hepático y no se presentaron casos de insuficiencia hepática aguda. Se presentó un solo caso de mortalidad no relacionada con la HAI durante el tiempo de seguimiento. Conclusión: los pacientes con HAI definitivo son en su mayoría adultos de mediana edad y mujeres, similar a lo encontrado en la literatura, con un bajo porcentaje de cirrosis y en estadios más tempranos, baja mortalidad y requerimiento de trasplante hepático. El bajo porcentaje de biopsia hepática es la limitante más importante en el diagnóstico y, por ende, en los desenlaces de los pacientes no diagnosticados.

Clinical Improvement Following Operative Management of Ankle Fractures Among Patients With and Without Moderate to High Depressive Symptoms: An Analysis Using PROMIS.

Background: Understanding the recovery trajectory following operative management of ankle fractures can help surgeons guide patient expectations. Further, it is beneficial to consider the impact of mental health on the recovery trajectory. Our study aimed to address the paucity of literature focused on understanding the recovery trajectory following surgery for ankle fractures, including in patients with depressive symptoms. Methods: From February 2015 to March 2020, patients with isolated ankle fractures were asked to complete Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), and Depression questionnaires as part of routine care at presentation and follow-up time points. Linear mixed effects regression models were used to evaluate the patient recovery pattern, comparing the preoperative time point to <3 months, 3-6 months, and >6 months across all patients. Additional models that included the presence of depression symptoms as a covariate were then used. Results: A total of 153 patients met inclusion criteria. By 3-6 months, PROMIS PF (ß: 9.95, 95% CI: 7.97-11.94, P < .001), PI (ß: -10.30, 95% CI: -11.87 to -8.72, P < .001), and Depression (ß: -5.60, 95% CI: -7.01 to -4.20, P < .001) improved relative to the preoperative time point. This level of recovery was sustained thereafter. When incorporating depressive symptoms into our model as a covariate, the moderate to high depressive symptoms were associated with significantly and clinically important worse PROMIS PF (ß: -4.00, 95% CI: -7.00 to -1.00, P = .01) and PI (ß: 3.16, 95% CI: -0.55 to 5.76, P = .02) scores. Conclusion: Following ankle fracture surgery, all patients tend to clinically improve by 3-6 months postoperatively and then continue to appreciate this clinical improvement. Although patients with moderate to high depressive symptoms also clinically improve following the same trajectory, they tend to do so to a lesser level than those who have low depressive symptoms. Level of Evidence: Level III, case-control study.

Implementation of automated behavior metrics to evaluate voluntary wheel running effects on inflammatory-erosive arthritis and interstitial lung disease in TNF-Tg mice.

BACKGROUND: Although treatment options and algorithms for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have improved remarkably in recent decades, there continues to be no definitive cure or pharmacologic intervention with reliable long-term efficacy. For this reason, the combination of medications and healthy lifestyle modifications are essential for controlling joint disease, and extra-articular manifestations of RA, such as interstitial lung disease (ILD) and other lung pathologies, which greatly impact morbidity and mortality. Generally, exercise has been deemed beneficial in RA patients, and both patients and clinicians are motivated to incorporate effective non-pharmacologic interventions. However, there are limited evidence-based and specific exercise regimens available to support engagement in such activities for RA patients. Here, we provided the continuous opportunity for exercise to mice and implemented automated recording and quantification of wheel running behavior. This allowed us to describe the associated effects on the progression of inflammatory-erosive arthritis and ILD in the tumor necrosis factor transgenic (TNF-Tg) mouse model of RA. METHODS: Wild-type (WT; males, n=9; females, n=9) and TNF-Tg (males, n=12; females, n=14) mice were singly housed with free access to a running wheel starting at 2 months until 5 to 5.5 months of age. Measures of running included distance, rate, length, and number of run bouts, which were derived from continuously recorded data streams collected automatically and in real-time. In vivo lung, ankle, and knee micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), along with terminal micro-CT and histology were performed to examine the association of running behaviors and disease progression relative to sedentary controls. RESULTS: TNF-Tg males and females exhibited significantly reduced running distance, rate, length, and number of run bouts compared to WT counterparts by 5 months of age (p<0.0001). Compared to sedentary controls, running males and females showed increased aerated lung volumes (p<0.05) that were positively correlated with running distance and rate in female mice (WT: Distance, ρ=0.705/rate, ρ=0.693 (p<0.01); TNF-Tg: ρ=0.380 (p=0.06)/ρ=0.403 (p<0.05)). Talus bone volumes were significantly reduced in running versus sedentary males and negatively correlated with running distance and rate in TNF-Tg mice (male: ρ=-903/ρ=-0.865; female: ρ=-0.614/ρ=-0.594 (p<0.001)). Histopathology validated the lung and ankle micro-CT findings. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of automated wheel running behavior metrics allows for evaluation of longitudinal activity modifications hands-off and in real-time to relate with biomarkers of disease severity. Through such analysis, we determined that wheel running activity increases aerated lung volumes, but exacerbates inflammatory-erosive arthritis in TNF-Tg mice. To the end of a clinically relevant model, additional functional assessment of these outcomes and studies of pain behavior are warranted.

Heightened 30-Day Postoperative Complication Risk Persists After COVID-19 Infection.

BACKGROUND: Current literature describing the riskiness of operating on actively infected COVID-19 patients far outnumbers that on the risk of operating on recovered patients. The purpose of this study was to analyze a single, tertiary referral center experience regarding postoperative complications and readmissions in COVID-19-recovered patients versus COVID-19-naïve (never previously infected) patients undergoing elective and emergency surgery across all surgical subspecialties. METHODS: All PCR positive COVID-19 patients that underwent a surgical procedure between February 1, 2020, and November 1, 2020, were included in the COVID-positive cohort. These patients were then matched to COVID-naïve controls that underwent similar procedures within the same time frame. Primary outcomes included 30-day postoperative complications as well as 90-day readmissions. Multivariable analyses were also performed. RESULTS: 112 COVID-positive patients met inclusion criteria and were all matched to COVID-naïve controls. 76 patients (68%) underwent surgery > 30 days from their COVID diagnosis. COVID-positive patients were at significantly higher risk of 30-day complications compared to the COVID-naïve cohort (22% versus 8%, respectively; p < 0.01). Multivariable analyses found ambulatory/asymptomatic infections, undergoing surgery between 30 and 120 days from diagnosis, initial presentation to the emergency department and elevated ASA scores to be significantly associated with 30-day complications. No differences were found for 90-day readmissions. CONCLUSION: Patients with previous COVID-19 infections carry a higher perioperative risk profile for 30-day complications compared to COVID-naïve counterparts in unvaccinated populations.

Prueba de Push-Out para Evaluar la Fuerza de Adhesión entre dos Tipos de Postes Estéticos

Posterior a un tratamiento endodóntico, muchas veces el remanente es insuficiente para la retención de un material de restauración, por este motivo es necesario la colocación de un sistema de poste-muñón para otorgar retención a la restauración final. Con la aparición de diversos materiales para las restauraciones estéticas, se utilizan actualmente resinas reforzadas con fibra de vidrio como sistemas de postes y muñones para la restauración de dientes tratados endodónticamente. El objetivo del presente trabajo fue comparar la fuerza de adhesión en la prueba push-out de dos diferentes tipos de postes de fibra de vidrio; 3M RelyX y Rebilda Post GT (VOCO) adheridos con cementos duales correspondientes a la marca de los postes; RelyX U-200® Automix (3M ESPE) y Rebilda DC (VOCO). Se llevó a cabo un análisis de ANOVA de dos vías para comparar la fuerza adhesiva con la prueba push-out entre ambos grupos de estudio. Pese a que se observó que los postes Rebilda presentaron una media de fuerza de adhesión ligeramente mayor en comparación con los postes 3M (sin diferencia estadística significativa P>0,05) los últimos son clínicamente más fáciles de colocar, lo cual pudiera ser un factor decisivo para el clínico en el momento de la elección de un poste y su sistema de adhesión.

After an endodontic treatment, many times the remnant is insufficient for the retention of a restorative material, for this reason it is necessary to place a post-stump system to provide retention to the final restoration. With the advent of various materials for esthetic restorations, fiberglass-reinforced resins are now used as post and core systems for the restoration of endodontically treated teeth. The objective of the present work was to compare the bond strength in the push-out test of 2 different types of fiberglass posts; 3M RelyX and Rebilda Post GT (VOCO) bonded with dual cements corresponding to the post brand; RelyX U-200® Automix (3M ESPE) and Rebilda DC (VOCO). A 2-way ANOVA analysis was performed to compare push-out strength between both study groups. Although it was observed that the Rebilda posts presented a slightly higher mean bond strength compared to the 3M posts (with no significant statistical difference P>0.05), the latter are clinically easier to place, which could be a decisive factor for the clinician at the time of choosing a post and its adhesion system.

Black Race, Hispanic Ethnicity, and Medicaid Insurance Are Associated With Lower Rates of Rotator Cuff Repair in New York State.

PURPOSE: To determine the use of operative rotator cuff repair for rotator cuff pathology in New York State and analyze the racial, ethnic, and income-based disparities in receiving rotator cuff repair. METHODS: A retrospective review of the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System Database of New York State was conducted to include patients with a new diagnosis of rotator cuff tear between July 1, 2017, and June 30, 2019, with at least 6 months of follow-up. Bivariate analysis using χ2 tests and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine racial, ethnic, and income-based disparities in the use of surgical treatment with rotator cuff repair. RESULTS: A total of 87,660 patients were included in the study. Of these, 36,422 patients (41.5%) underwent surgical treatment with rotator cuff repair. Multivariable analysis showed that Black race (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69-0.87; P < .001), Hispanic/Latino ethnicity (aOR 0.91; 95% CI 0.85-0.97); P = .004), and Medicaid (aOR 0.75; 95% CI 0.70-0.80; P < .001), or other government insurance (aOR 0.82; 95% CI 0.78-0.86; P < .001) were independently associated with lower rates of rotator cuff repair. Male sex (aOR 1.18; 95% CI 1.14-1.22; P < .001), Asian race (aOR 1.27; 95% CI 1.00-1.62; P = .048), workers' compensation insurance (aOR 1.12; 95% CI 1.07-1.18; P < .001), and greater home ZIP code income quartile (aOR 1.19; 95% CI 1.09-1.30; P < .001) were independently associated with greater rates of operative management. Although race was an independent covariate affecting rate of rotator cuff repair, the effects of race were altered when accounting for the other covariates, suggesting that race alone does not account for the differences in rate of surgery for rotator cuff pathology. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis of all adult patients presenting with rotator cuff tears to New York hospital systems from 2017 to 2019, we identified significant racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in the likelihood of rotator cuff repair surgery for patients with rotator cuff tears. These include lower rates of rotator cuff repair for those Black, Hispanic, and low-income populations as represented by Medicaid insurance and low home ZIP code income quartile. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study reports disparities in the use of rotator cuff repair for individuals with rotator cuff pathology.

Ethylene: A Master Regulator of Plant-Microbe Interactions under Abiotic Stresses.

The plant phytohormone ethylene regulates numerous physiological processes and contributes to plant-microbe interactions. Plants induce ethylene production to ward off pathogens after recognition of conserved microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). However, plant immune responses against pathogens are essentially not different from those triggered by neutral and beneficial microbes. Recent studies indicate that ethylene is an important factor for beneficial plant-microbial association under abiotic stress such as salt and heat stress. The association of beneficial microbes with plants under abiotic stresses modulates ethylene levels which control the expression of ethylene-responsive genes (ERF), and ERFs further regulate the plant transcriptome, epi-transcriptome, Na+/K+ homeostasis and antioxidant defense mechanisms against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Understanding ethylene-dependent plant-microbe interactions is crucial for the development of new strategies aimed at enhancing plant tolerance to harsh environmental conditions. In this review, we underline the importance of ethylene in beneficial plant-microbe interaction under abiotic stresses.

Analysis of the Mechanical Behavior and Effect of Cyclic Fatigue on the Implant-Abutment Interface / Análisis del comportamiento mecánico y efecto de la fatiga cíclica en la interface implante-pilar

ABSTRACT: Purpose: The seal of the interface formed at the implant-abutment connection is essential for the long-term success of the implant-supported restoration. The aim of this study was to analyze the mechanical behavior and the effect of cyclic fatigue before and after in the marginal fit of implant-abutment according to the manufacturing technique of the abutment. Materials and methods: Machined titanium abutments (DENTIS), cast abutments with Nickel-Chromium alloy (VeraBond II), and manufacturing custom milled Zirconia abutments (Zirkonzahn) were evaluated. The implant-abutment assemblies were subjected to cyclic loads of 133 N at a frequency of 19.1 Hz for 200,000 cycles. The microgap was measured using Scanning Electronic Microscope and the distribution of compressive stress by the three-dimensional Finite Element (FE) method. Results: The microgap measurement values of the machined abutments were 1.62μm and 1.92μm, cast abutments were 14.14 μm, and 28.44 μm, and the milled abutments were 14.18μm and 20.15μm before and after cyclic fatigue, respectively. Only the cast abutments and the machined abutments showed a statistically significant difference before and after cyclic fatigue (p≤0.05). The FE analysis showed that the critical areas of compressive stress were located at the implant-abutment connection, increasing in the cast abutments and decreasing in the milled and the machined abutments. Conclusion: Cyclic fatigue exerts an effect on the dimensions of the microgap at the implant-abutment interface before and after loading; this microgap depends of the type of abutment material and the manufacturing technique.

RESUMEN: Propósito: El sellado de la interface de la conexión implante-pilar es esencial para el éxito a largo plazo de la restauración implantosoportada. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar el comportamiento mecánico y el efecto de la fatiga cíclica antes y después en el sellado de la conexión implante-pilar de acuerdo a la ténica de fabricación del pilar. Materiales y Métodos: Pilares mecanizados de titanio (DENTIS), pilares calcinables colados con aleación Niquel-Cromo (VeraBond II) y pilares fresados de Zirconia (Zirkonzahn) fueron evaluados. Los implantes y pilares atornillados se sometieron a una carga de 133 N a una frecuencia de 19.1 Hz durante 200 000 ciclos. El microgap fue medido con el Microscopio Electrónico de Barrido y la distribución del esfuerzo de compresión por el método tridimensional de Elemento Finito (EF). Los valores del microgap de los pilares mecanizados fueron de 1.62μm y 1.92μm, en los pilares calcinables fue de 14.14μm y 20.15μm, y los pilares fresados fue de 14.18μm y 28.44 μm antes y después de la fatiga cíclica, respectivamente. Los pilares calcinables y lo mecanizados mostraron diferencia estadísticamente significativa antes y después de la fatiga cíclica (p≤0.05). El análisis por EF mostró que las áreas críticas del esfuerzo de compresión estaban localizadas en la conexión implante-pilar, aumentando en los pilares calcinables y disminuyendo en los pilares fresados y en los mecanizados. Conclusión: La fatiga cíclica ejerce un efecto sobre las dimensiones del microgap en la interface implante-pilar antes y después de la carga cíclica; este microgap depende del tipo de material y de la técnica de fabricación del pilar.

Photoautotrophic poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) production by a wild-type Synechococcus elongatus isolated from an extreme environment.

The photoautotrophic poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) production by cyanobacteria is an attractive option as it only requires CO2 and light. In this work, a new wild-type strain producing PHB, Synechococcus elongatus UAM-C/S03, was identified using a polyphasic approach. The strain was cultured in a photobioreactor operated under N-sufficiency conditions at different pH values (7 to 11) and fed with CO2 on demand. We also evaluated the production of PHB under N-starving conditions. Highest biomass productivity, 324 mg L-1 d-1, and CO2 capture, 674 mg L-1 d-1, were obtained at pH 7 and under N-sufficiency conditions. The strain accumulated 29.42% of PHB in dry cell weight (DCW) under N-starvation conditions without pH control, and highest PHB productivity was 58.10 mg L-1 d-1. The highest carbohydrate content registered at pH 8, 50.84% in DCW, along with a release of carbon-based organic compounds, suggested the presence of exopolysaccharides in the culture medium.

Early complications and reoperation rates are similar amongst open reduction internal fixation, intramedullary nail, and distal femoral replacement for periprosthetic distal femur fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Our purpose was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate complication and revision rates for periprosthetic distal femur fractures (PPDFF) treated with: (1) ORIF using periarticular locking plates (ORIF), (2) retrograde intramedullary nail (IMN), and (3) distal femoral replacement (DFR). METHODS: Systematic review of the literature was performed to identify eligible studies (N = 52). Identified treatment groups were: ORIF (N = 1205 cases), IMN (N = 272 cases), and DFR (N = 353 cases). Median follow-up was 30 months (range 6-96 months). Primary outcomes were: (1) major complication rates and (2) reoperation rates over the follow-up period. Secondary outcomes were incidence of deep infection, periprosthetic fracture, mortality over the follow-up period, 1-year mortality, non-union, malunion, delayed union, and hardware failure. Data for primary and secondary outcomes were pooled and unadjusted analysis was performed. Meta-analysis was performed on subset of individual studies comparing at least two of three treatment groups (N = 14 studies). Odds-ratios and their respective standard errors were determined for each treatment group combination. Maximum likelihood random effects meta-analysis was conducted for primary outcomes. RESULTS: From the systematic review, major complication rates (p = 0.55) and reoperation rates (p = 0.20) were not significantly different between the three treatment groups. DFR group had a higher incidence of deep infection relative to IMN and ORIF groups (p = 0.03). Malunion rates were higher in IMN versus ORIF (p = 0.02). For the meta-analysis, odds of major complications were not significantly different between IMN versus DFR (OR 1.39 [0.23-8.52]), IMN versus ORIF (OR 0.86 [0.48-1.53]), or the ORIF versus DFR (OR 0.91 [0.52-1.59]). Additionally, odds of a reoperation were not significantly different between IMN versus DFR (OR 0.59 [0.08-4.11]), IMN versus ORIF (OR 1.26 [0.66-2.40]), or ORIF versus DFR (OR 0.91 [0.51-1.55]). CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in major complications or reoperations between the three treatment groups. Deep infection rates were higher in DFR relative to internal fixation, malunion rates were higher in IMN versus ORIF, and periprosthetic fracture rates were higher in DFR and IMN versus ORIF.

Effects of drug abuse and mental disorders on oral health: A case report.

Substance use disorders, related to mental health issues can lead to oral pathologies. The purpose of this case report was to identify the oral conditions and manifestations in a 28-year-old male narco-dependent schizophrenic who smoked tobacco and marijuana. In intra-oral clinical exploration, poor oral hygiene, excessive tartar formation and dental plaque were observed, and the diagnosis of severe chronic periodontitis was established. The choice of a treatment plan in such patients is complex because the consequences of an invasive treatment can aggravate the psychological state and emotional stability leading to a negative effect on behaviour and mental health due to edentulism. The effects of excessive drug consumption related to schizophrenia can cause poor oral hygiene habits leading to oral pathologies and the loss of teeth.

Caracterización de pacientes con cirrosis hepática y bacteriemia de un hospital universitario en Medellín, Colombia / Characterization of patients with liver cirrhosis and bacteremia treated at a university hospital in Medellín-Colombia

Resumen Introducción: la bacteriemia en pacientes cirróticos es frecuente y se asocia con una alta mortalidad y hospitalización prolongada. Este estudio describe las características demográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio en pacientes con cirrosis hepática y bacteriemia en un hospital de cuarto nivel. Métodos: estudio observacional de cohorte retrospectiva. Incluyó pacientes con cirrosis hepática y bacteriemia entre el 1 de enero de 2010 y el 31 de diciembre de 2017 en el Hospital Pablo Tobón Uribe de Medellín, Colombia. Se recogieron variables demográficas, clínicas y de laboratorio. Se estimó la supervivencia durante el tiempo de hospitalización y hasta 30 días desde el diagnóstico de bacteriemia. Resultados: se hallaron 78 pacientes con cirrosis y bacteriemia. La media de edad fue de 65 años, 66,7 % fueron mujeres. Las principales etiologías de la cirrosis fueron: criptogénica (30,8 %) y esteatohepatitis no alcohólica (EHNA; 19,3 %). La principal fuente de infección fue la vía urinaria (24 %), seguida de colangitis (23 %) y la bacteriemia espontánea (19 %). Los bacilos gramnegativos (BGN) representaron la mayoría de los aislamientos (67,9 %). La prevalencia de multidrogorresistentes (MDR) fue de 25,6 % y el uso adecuado de antibiótico empírico fue de 80,8 %. La mortalidad a 30 días fue de 11,5 %. Como mejores predictores de mortalidad se encontraron la puntuación Child-Pugh y Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) al ingreso con área bajo la curva ROC (AUROC) de 0,79 (p = 0,008) y 0.72 (p = 0,042), respectivamente. Conclusiones: los hallazgos permiten conocer las principales características de los pacientes con cirrosis que desarrollan bacteriemia en nuestro medio. Se encontró un número considerable de infecciones MDR. Los pacientes con un grado avanzado de la cirrosis son los que presentan un mayor riesgo de mortalidad.

Abstract Introduction: Bacteremia in cirrhotic patients is frequent and associated with high mortality and prolonged hospital stays. This study describes the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of patients with liver cirrhosis and bacteremia treated at a quaternary care hospital. Methodology: Observational, retrospective cohort study. The sample consisted of patients with liver cirrhosis and bacteremia treated between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2017, at the Hospital Pablo Tobon Uribe of Medellín, Colombia. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were collected. Survival was estimated during the time of hospitalization and up to 30 days following the diagnosis of bacteremia. Results: 78 patients had cirrhosis and bacteremia. The average age was 65 years; 66.7% were women. Cirrhosis was labeled cryptogenic in 30.8% of the cases and NASH in 19.3%. The main source of infection was the urinary tract (24%), followed by cholangitis (23%) and spontaneous bacteremia (19%). Gram-negative bacteria were observed in most of the isolates (67.9%). The prevalence of MDR was 25.6%, and the adequate use of empirical antibiotics was 80.8%. The 30-day mortality rate was 11.5%. The best mortality predictors were the Child-Pugh and MELD scores on admission with AUROC of 0.79 (P=0.008) and 0.72 (P=0.042), respectively. Conclusions: The findings allow describing the main characteristics of patients with cirrhosis who develop bacteremia in our environment. A considerable number of MDR infections were found. Patients with an advanced degree of cirrhosis are at the highest risk of mortality.