Diabetic Vascular Disease Research Articles

Downregulation of lncRNA MIR181A2HG by high glucose impairs vascular endothelial cell proliferation and migration through the dysregulation of the miRNAs/AKT2 axis.

Endothelial dysfunction and diabetic vascular disease induced by chronic hyperglycemia involve complex interactions among high glucose, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs or miRs) and the Ser/Thr kinase AKT. However, the molecular mechanisms under-lying the regulatory crosstalk between these have not yet been completely elucidated. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms whereby high glucose (HG)-induced lncRNA MIR181A2HG modulates human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and migration by regulating AKT2 expression. The persistent exposure of HUVECs to HG resulted in MIR181A2HG down-regulation and thus reduced its ability to sponge miR-6832-5p, miR-6842-5p and miR-8056, subsequently leading to an increase in miR-6832-5p, miR-6842-5p and miR-8056 levels. Mechanistically, miR-6832-5p, miR-6842-5p and miR-8056 were found to target the 3′UTR of AKT2 mRNA in HUVECs, and the increase in their levels led to a decreased expression of AKT2. Thus, this also led to the suppression of HUVEC proliferation and migration, and the formation of capillary-like structures. Moreover, the suppression of HUVEC proliferation and migration induced by MIR181A2HG downregulation was accompanied by changes in glucose metabolism. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that the downregulation of lncRNA MIR181A2HG by HG impairs HUVEC proliferation and migration by dysregulating the miRNA/AKT2 axis. The MIR181A2HG/miRNA/AKT2 regulatory axis may thus be a potential therapeutic target for HG-induced endothelial dysfunction.

Animal model analysis of diabetic lower extremity arterial disease based on clinical symptoms of traditional Chinese and Western medicine

The evaluation standard of LEAD animal model was established according to the understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of diabetic lower extremity vascular disease based on Chinese and Western medicine. The consistency between the existing LEAD animal model and the clinical characteristics of traditional Chinese and Western medicine was analyzed and evaluated. The advantages and disadvantages of the existing model were compared,the application scope of different models was considered,and the possible improvement methods of the existing model were proposed,so as to provide impetus for the improvement of LEAD animal model.We should reflect more characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine syndromes in the process of model improvement and development,making the LEAD animal model to get closer to clinical features of traditional Chinese and Western medicine.

Comentario del CEIPV a la actualización de las Guías Europeas de Prevención Vascular en la Práctica Clínica

We present the adaptation for Spain of the updated European Cardiovascular Prevention Guidelines. In this update, greater stress is laid on the population approach, and especially on the promotion of physical activity and healthy diet through dietary, leisure and active transport policies in Spain. To estimate vascular risk, note should be made of the importance of recalibrating the tables used, by adapting them to population shifts in the prevalence of risk factors and incidence of vascular diseases, with particular attention to the role of chronic kidney disease. At an individual level, the key element is personalised support for changes in behaviour, adherence to medication in high-risk individuals and patients with vascular disease, the fostering of physical activity, and cessation of smoking habit. Furthermore, recent clinical trials with PCSK9 inhibitors are reviewed, along with the need to simplify pharmacological treatment of arterial hypertension to improve control and adherence to treatment. In the case of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and vascular disease or high vascular disease risk, when lifestyle changes and metformin are inadequate, the use of drugs with proven vascular benefit should be prioritised. Lastly, guidelines on peripheral arterial disease and other specific diseases are included, as is a recommendation against prescribing antiaggregants in primary prevention.

Effect of leech-centipede medicine on improving erectile function in diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction rats via PDE5 signalling pathway-related molecules

Context The leech and centipede granules have good curative effects on many diabetic vascular diseases, including diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction (DIED). Objective To explore the effect of leech and centipede on erectile function in rats with diabetes-induced erectile dysfunction and its possible mechanism. Materials and methods Thirty male Sprague–Dawley DIED rats were randomly divided into the model group (Group M), low-dose group (Group DD), high-dose group (Group DG) and tadalafil group (Group T) (n = 6); diabetic rats were induced by streptozotocin. Apomorphine was used to induce diabetic erectile dysfunction. The ‘leech-centipede’ granules (0.15 and 0.6 g/kg) were intragastrically administered in the DD and DG groups for 8 weeks. Blood glucose, serum insulin, testosterone, cGMP levels and protein expression changes were measured in each group. Results After 8 weeks, the erectile function of rats in the DG group significantly improved (1.26 ± 0.73). Penis tissue cGMP levels were higher in the DG group (1.48 ± 0.11) than in the M group (0.58 ± 0.15). Protein and mRNA expression levels of NOS were significantly higher (0.77 ± 0.05; 0.61 ± 0.02) but those of PDE5 (0.43 ± 0.05; 0.61 ± 0.03) were lower in the DG group than in the M group (0.37 ± 0.06; 0.51 ± 0.01; 0.78 ± 0.06; 0.81 ± 0.04). Conclusion The leech-centipede can improve erectile dysfunction in DIED rats by regulating the expression of cGMP, NOS, and PDE5-related molecules in the PDE5 pathway. This study provides a potential mechanism for the treatment of DIED with leech-centipede.

Werner Syndrome

A 36-year-old male presented with young-onset diabetes and advanced peripheral vascular disease. He had a history of bilateral juvenile cataracts and premature aged appearance. Closer scrutiny unraveled multiple endocrine and nonendocrine abnormalities. Genetic studies revealed a novel pathogenic variant (homozygous c.3233+2T>c) confirming and expanding the mutation spectrum of Werner syndrome. This report highlights the need for precise diagnosis, which has important implications for prognosis and genetic counseling.

Wireless Smart Insole Based Foot Pressure Monitoring And Analysis

Diabetic foot ulcer leads to several problems to the patients. It engenders illness and sometimes deals that. Those wounds lead to nervous problem along with the development of ulcer and amputation which produces high pressure in legs. Perpendicular slope and applied mathematics operation analyzing will be utilized to get foot malformation. The experiential showed a fragile one- dimensionality and an important division in weigh acceptance. Systems can be applied to evade ulceration during the shoe monitoring. Ulceration is the endpoint of the diabetics. The main etiological factors in foot ulceration are diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease.

Prevalence and factors associated with cutaneous manifestations of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is known to cause multiple systemic manifestations. However, there are limited studies describing cutaneous manifestation among T2DM in Malaysia. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of cutaneous manifestation among T2DM patients, types of lesions and its associated factors. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 271 T2DM patients at a primary care clinic in Kuala Lumpur. Results. More than one third (63.5%) of patients were found to have cutaneous manifestations of T2DM. The most common manifestation was infections (34.7%) followed by Skin Diseases with Weak to Strong Association with Diabetes (SDWSAD) (31.7%), Skin Manifestation of Diabetic Complication (SMDC) (2.2%) and others cutaneous lesions (22.1%). Among the infections, onychomycosis was the commonest type of infection (27.7%) while diabetic dermopathy was the commonest lesion of SDWSAD (29.7%). Males had almost two times the odds of developing cutaneous manifestations of T2DM, compared to females (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.871, 95% CI: 1.108–3.160; P = 0.019). There was no association between glycemic control and cutaneous manifestations. However, males and those with T2DM duration of five years and more had 2.6 times the odds of developing SDWSAD (AOR: 2.646, 95% CI: 1.506–4.648 P = 0.001) and (AOR: 2.635, 95% CI: 1.107–6.268, P = 0.028) respectively. Those with diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) had very high odds of developing SMDC such as diabetic foot and trophic ulcers (AOR: 23.259, 95% CI: 1.191–454.2, P = 0.038) and (AOR: 102.36, 95% CI: 4.013–2610, P = 0.005), respectively. Conclusion. The knowledge of these cutaneous manifestations increases physician’s awareness and prompts early screening to reduce morbidity improve quality of life.

Progression of diabetic retinopathy after cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation

Aim of the study is to observe the progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients after cataract extraction and placement of intraocular lens implantation. Diabetes affects both the anterior as well as the posterior segment of the eyes. In this study we observed the progression of the diabetic retinopathy following uncomplicated cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation over a one year period and found that the maximum progression was seen at the end of 1 year in patients of age group 56-65 with no gender predilection. Cataract surgery in diabetic patients can be performed with an acceptable risk of complications and worsening of diabetic retinopathy seems to be correlated not with the cataract surgery but with the natural course of diabetic vascular disease. Keywords: Cataract, Diabetic retinopathy, Intraocular lens implantation, Maculopathy, Progression.

Application of new international classification of adult-onset diabetes in Chinese inpatients with diabetes mellitus.

To determine whether the new international cluster-based classification method can be applied to Chinese inpatients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Adult patients with DM hospitalized in our tertiary care centre from January 2017 to December 2018 were included in the study. K-means cluster analysis was done in clusters based on glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies, body mass index, glycosylated haemoglobin, homeostasis model-assessed beta cell function, insulin resistance index, and age at diagnosis of DM. Chi-square test was used to analyse inter-subgroup differences in DM-related complications and family history of DM. p<0.05 was considered significant. A total of 1152 inpatients with DM were included in the study. Five subgroups were obtained by cluster analysis with highest proportion of population in mild obesity-related DM subgroup (34.55%), followed by mild age-related DM (21.55%), severe insulin deficiency DM (20.51%), severe insulin resistance DM (19.02%), and severe autoimmune DM subgroup (4.36%). The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, diabetic peripheral vascular disease, diabetic ketosis, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and family history of DM differed significantly among the subgroups (p<0.05 for all). This cluster-based classification could be applied to hospitalized adult patients with DM in China. It might help in strategizing for DM patients, and hence, improve management of DM in these patients.

MicroRNA-139-5p upregulation is associated with diabetic endothelial cell dysfunction by targeting c-jun.

Dysfunction of endothelial cells (ECs) and their progenitor cells is an important feature of diabetic vascular disease. MicroRNA (miR)-139-5p is involved in inhibiting the metastasis and progression of diverse malignancies. However, the role of miR-139-5p in ECs still remains unclarified. Here we demonstrated that miR-139-5p expression was elevated in endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) isolated from patients with diabetes, ECs derived from the aorta of diabetic rodents, and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cultured in high glucose media. MiR-139-5p mimics inhibited tube formation, migration, proliferation, and down-regulated expression of c-jun, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-B, in ECFCs and HUVECs, respectively; moreover, miR-139-5p inhibitors reversed the tendency. Further, gain- and-loss function experiments and ChIP assay indicated that miR-139-5p regulate functions of ECFCs by targeting c-jun-VEGF/PDGF-B pathway. In vivo experiments (Matrigel plug assay and hindlimb ischemia model) showed that miR-139-5p downregulation further promoted ECFC-mediated angiogenesis and blood perfusion. In conclusion, diabetes-mediated high miR-139-5p expression inhibits the c-jun-VEGF/PDGF-B pathway, thus decreasing ECFCs migration, tube formation and proliferation, which subsequently reduces ECs survival. Therefore, miR-139-5p might be an important therapeutic target in the treatment of diabetic vasculopathy in the future.

Assessing knowledge of healthcare providers concerning cardiovascular risk after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: an Australian national survey

BackgroundHypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) affect 5–10% of pregnant women. Women after HDP have 2–3 times increased risk of heart attack, stroke and diabetes, as soon as 5–10 years after pregnancy. Australian healthcare providers’ knowledge of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks for women after HDP is unknown, and this study aimed to explore their current knowledge and practice regarding long-term cardiovascular health after HDP, as a precursor to producing targeted healthcare provider education on health after HDP.MethodsA custom-created, face-validated online survey explored knowledge about long-term risks after HDP. Distribution occurred from February to July 2019 via professional colleges, key organisations and social media. The objective was to assess current knowledge and knowledge gaps amongst a group of healthcare providers (HCP) in Australia, regarding long-term cardiovascular health after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), specifically gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.ResultsOf 492 respondents, 203 were midwives, 188 obstetricians, 75 general practitioners (GP), and 26 cardiologists. A risk knowledge score was computed with 0–6 considered low, 6.1–8.9 moderate and 9–12 high. Most participants (85%) were aware of increased cardiovascular disease after preeclampsia and gestational hypertension (range 76% midwives to 100% cardiologists). There were significant differences in average knowledge scores regarding health after preeclampsia; high for cardiologists (9.3), moderate for GPs and obstetricians (8.2 and 7.6 respectively) and low for midwives (5.9). Average knowledge scores were somewhat lower for gestational hypertension (9.0 for cardiologists, 7.4 for obstetricians and GPs, 5.1 for midwives). Knowledge was highest regarding risk of chronic hypertension, moderate to high regarding risk of ischaemic heart disease, stroke and recurring HDP, and low for diabetes and peripheral vascular disease. Only 34% were aware that risks start < 10 years after the affected pregnancy.Conclusion(s)Participants were aware there is increased cardiovascular risk after HDP, although less aware of risks after gestational hypertension and some specific risks including diabetes. Findings will inform the development of targeted education.

Mortality after implantable cardioverter defibrillators in dialysis patients: a nationwide study

Abstract Background Although randomized clinical trials have shown that implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) reduce mortality in selected patients, patients on dialysis are excluded from these trials. Thus, data on mortality risk after ICD implantation in these patients are sparse. Purpose To examine all-cause mortality in patients receiving an ICD according to dialysis status and to identify factors associated with all-cause mortality in patients on dialysis. Methods Using Danish nationwide registries from 2000–2017, all patients ≥18 years old undergoing first-time ICD implantation were included. Patients on dialysis were identified prior to ICD implantation and followed for up to five years. The cumulative incidence of all-cause mortality according to dialysis status was assessed. Factors associated with all-cause mortality after ICD implantation in dialysis patients were examined using multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression. Results A total of 14,681 ICD patients were identified, of which 218 (1.5%) were on dialysis prior to ICD implantation. Compared with ICD patients not on dialysis, those on dialysis were younger (median age 64 years [IQR: 58–70] vs. 66 years [IQR: 57–72], p=0.02), more likely to receive an ICD for secondary prophylaxis (69.7% vs 53.7%), and had more comorbidities including ischaemic heart disease (60.6% vs. 46.3%), diabetes (28.4% vs. 20.4%), and peripheral vascular disease (10.1% vs. 5.6%) (p for all &amp;lt;0.05). The median time to death among ICD patients on dialysis and not on dialysis were 1.3 years (IQR: 0.4–2.8 years] and 2.2 years [IQR: 1.0–3.5 years], respectively. One-year mortality among ICD patients on dialysis (13.0%) was significantly higher compared with ICD patients not on dialysis (4.7%), p&amp;lt;0.001 (Figure). Five-year mortality was significantly higher in ICD patients on dialysis than those not on dialysis (42.2% vs 23.6%), p&amp;lt;0.001 (Figure). Factors associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality among ICD patients on dialysis were age ≥65 years at time of implantation (reference: age &amp;lt;65 years) (HR 1.90 [95% CI: 1.13–3.19]), primary prophylactic ICD (HR 1.81 [95% CI 1.08–3.05]), and diabetes (HR 1.87 [95% CI 1.14–3.07]). Sex, ischaemic heart disease, heart failure, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and malignancy were not associated with the risk of mortality (p&amp;gt;0.05 for all). Cardiovascular causes of death were common both in patients with- and without dialysis, 69.6% and 60.0%, respectively. Conclusion Five-year mortality in ICD patients on dialysis was 42% and twice as high compared with ICD patients not on dialysis. Age ≥65 years, primary prophylactic indication, and diabetes were factors associated with increased mortality. Careful evaluation of the potential benefit from an ICD implantation in dialysis patients is important considering the overall high mortality rates. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Sex-stratified analysis of the safety of percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion.

There is insufficient current evidence about whether sex impacts outcomes of percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO). The aim of this study was to investigate the association between sex and short-term outcomes of LAAO. Patients who were hospitalized and underwent LAAO from October 2015 to December 2017 in the National Readmission Database were queried. The primary endpoint of interest was major in-hospital adverse events. Secondary endpoints included, 30-day readmission rate, nonhome discharge, and cost of hospitalization. Propensity score matching (1:1) was performed to compare the outcomes among women and men. A total of 9,281 patients were included in the current analysis [women = 3,659 (39%); men = 5,622 (61%)]. Comparing women to men, women had lower prevalence of diabetes mellitus (30.6% vs 35.7%, p < .01), heart failure (28.6% vs 30.8%, p = .03), vascular disease (55.5% vs 69.6%, p < .01) and renal failure (18.3% vs 21.2%, p < .01), and higher CHA2 DS2 VASc score (5 [IQR4-6] vs 4 [IQR3-6], p < .01). After propensity-score matching, women had higher rate of major in-hospital adverse events (2.8% vs 1.9%; p < .01), and nonhome discharges (11.4% vs 6.7%; p < .01). Additionally, 30-day readmission rate was higher among women (10% vs 8.6%, p = .03). Among hospitalized patients undergoing LAAO, women carry higher risk for major in-hospital adverse events, nonhome discharge, and 30-day readmission rates.

Effect of leech-centipede medicine on improving erectile function in DIED rats via PKC signalling pathway-related molecules

Ethnopharmacological relevanceLeeches (pinyin name Shui Zhi; Latin scientific name Hirudo; Hirudinea; Hirudinidae) and centipedes (pinyin name Wu Gong; Latin scientific name Scolopendridae; Chilopoda; Scolopendridae) are traditional Chinese medicines, and they belong to the family entomology. A combination of leech and centipede is used as an effective medicine to promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis in traditional Chinese medicine, and “leech-centipede” medicine has been used in many prescriptions to treat diabetic vascular disease, including diabetic erectile dysfunction (DIED). However, its specific mechanism remains unclear and requires in-depth study. Aim of the studyThis study aimed to investigate the mechanism of “leech-centipede” medicine to improve erectile dysfunction-associated diabetes by detecting PKC pathway-related molecules. Materials and methodsThe active ingredients of “leech-centipede” medicine were identified using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Fifty male SPF rats were injected with streptozotocin to induce the DM model. Eight weeks later, the DMED model was validated with apomorphine. The DIED rats were divided into five groups—T,P,DD,DZ, and DG—and were separately treated with tadalafil, pathway inhibitor LY333531 and low-, medium-, and high-dose “leech-centipede” medicine for 8 weeks. After treatment, the blood glucose level was measured, erectile function with apomorphine was assessed, the LOX-1, sE-selectin, sICAM-1, SOD, and MDA in serum was evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and flow cytometry was performed. After the collection of penile tissue, the related protein and mRNA expression was assessed by Western blotting and PCR, and the tissue and ultrastructure were analysed by HE staining, immunohistochemistry and scanning electron microscopy. ResultsAfter treatment, the erectile function of rats was significantly improved in the T,P,DD,DZ, and DG groups compared with that in the model group. Thus, “leech-centipede” medicine can significantly reduce the levels of LOX-1, sE-selectin, sICAM-1, EMPs and CD62P to protect vascular endothelial function and anti-platelet activation, improving DIED rat erectile function. Additionally, “leech-centipede” medicine can increase SOD expression and decrease MDA expression, reducing the possibility of oxidative stress injury in DIED rats and improving the antioxidant capacity. Moreover, “leech-centipede” therapy can dramatically reduce the protein and mRNA expression of DAG, PKCβ, NF-κB, and ICAM-1, improve vascular endothelial injury in DIED rats and inhibit abnormal platelet activation. Conclusion“leech-centipede” medicine can improve erectile dysfunction by inhibiting the expression of PKC pathway-related molecules in DIED rats and protects endothelial function and anti-platelet activation.

Clinical Approach to Assessment and Amelioration of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease in Diabetes.

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is increased on average 2–3-fold in people with diabetes as compared to their non-diabetic counterparts and is the major cause of the increased morbidity and mortality in this disease. There is however heterogeneity in cardiovascular risk between individuals based on demographic, cardiometabolic and clinical risk factors in the setting of hyperglycemia, insulin resistance and obesity that needs to be taken into consideration in planning preventive interventions. Randomized clinical trials of agents or procedures used for amelioration of augmented CVD risk in diabetes have been pivotal in providing evidenced-based treatments. Improvement in hyperglycemia in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes is considered to be central in the prevention of microvascular and macrovascular complications although selected antihyperglycemic agents have demonstrated beneficial as well as possible deleterious off-target effects. Lowering low density lipoprotein cholesterol, treating hypertension and stopping smoking each play important roles in preventing cardiovascular disease in diabetes as they do in the general population and low dose aspirin is overall beneficial in high risk individuals. Hypertriglyceridemia may represent another important marker for augmented cardiovascular risk in diabetes and newer agents targeting dyslipidemia appear promising. The fall in cardiovascular events over the past two decades offers hope that modern intervention strategies as well as novel approaches such as those targeting inflammation may contribute to a continued reduction of cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes.

Incidence of Major Arterial Abnormality in Patients with Wound Dehiscence after Lower Extremity Orthopedic Procedures.

Surgical dehiscence can occur after lower extremity orthopedic procedures. Underlying vascular aberrancy and localized ischemia contribute to chronic wound development requiring advanced techniques such as free tissue transfer. Localized vascular abnormality is an underrecognized contributing factor to such dehiscence. The authors reviewed their lower extremity free tissue transfer experience in this population to analyze the incidence of arterial abnormality and outcomes. The authors conducted a retrospective review of 64 lower extremity free tissue transfers performed for chronic wounds after orthopedic procedures from 2011 to 2018. The primary outcome was major arterial abnormality as identified on angiography. Secondary outcomes were flap success, limb salvage, and ambulation status. The median age was 58 years, and 44 were men (69 percent). Comorbidities included osteomyelitis (77 percent), diabetes (39 percent), and peripheral vascular disease (17 percent). The incidence of arterial abnormality on angiography was 47 percent. Defect location correlated with angiosome of arterial abnormality in 53 percent. The flap success rate was 92 percent. Limb salvage and ambulation rates were 89 and 89 percent, respectively, at an average follow-up of 17.6 months. Men demonstrated an increased rate of limb salvage (p = 0.026). Diabetes (p = 0.012), arterial abnormality (p = 0.044), and arterial flap complication (p = 0.010) correlated with amputation. The high incidence of arterial abnormality in this population highlights the importance of expedient multidisciplinary care, including vascular and plastic surgery. Diagnostic angiography is important for identifying major arterial abnormality and the need for free tissue transfer for definitive coverage.

107. Effect of osteoporosis and bisphosphonate on reoperations in adult spinal deformity

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Adult spinal deformity is a complex pathology that often requires challenging surgical intervention for treatment. In patients with osteoporosis, there may be increased risk of complications and reoperations. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of treating osteoporosis patients with bisphosphonate preoperatively on future reoperations. PURPOSE Investigate the effect of preoperative bisphosphonate on osteoporosis patients undergoing corrective surgery for adult spinal deformity. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Retrospective review of the PearlDiver database between the years 2008-2015. PATIENT SAMPLE This study included 2,842 adult spinal deformity patients. OUTCOME MEASURES Ninety-day complications, reoperations. METHODS Adult spinal deformity patients undergoing a fusion were isolated using ICD-9 CM and CPT codes in the PearlDiver database between the years 2008-2015. Patients were stratified based on diagnosis of osteoporosis and whether there was a filled prescription for bisphosphonate 6 months prior to surgery. ASD patients with osteoporosis and bisphosphonate use who underwent corrective intervention were compared with age- and sex-matched cohorts of osteoporotic and nonosteoporotic controls with no bisphosphonate prescriptions. Means comparison tests compared differences in demographics, comorbidities, 90-day complications, and 2Y reoperation rates. Logistic regression analysis assessed the odds of complication and reoperations controlling for age, sex, and comorbidities (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]). Statistical significance was set p<0.05. RESULTS A total of 2,842 operative adult spinal deformity patients were isolated. Four hundred and six patients had osteoporosis and bisphosphonate use, 807 osteoporosis with no bisphosphonate use, and 1,629 non-osteoporosis patients. At baseline, osteoporosis patients had higher rates of obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and peripheral vascular disease compared to osteoporotic bisphosphonate cohort. There were no differences in 90-day complication rates or 2Y reoperations rates between osteoporosis bisphosphonate users and osteoporosis controls (p>0.05). Compared to nonosteoporotic patients, osteoporosis patients with bisphosphonate use trended toward lower rates of revisions at 1Y (5% vs 7%) and 2Y (7% vs 8%, both p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS In a matched cohort, osteoporosis patients treated preoperatively with bisphosphonates trended towards lower rates of revisions two years postoperatively compared to nonosteoporotic controls. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs. Adult spinal deformity is a complex pathology that often requires challenging surgical intervention for treatment. In patients with osteoporosis, there may be increased risk of complications and reoperations. Our study aimed to evaluate the effect of treating osteoporosis patients with bisphosphonate preoperatively on future reoperations. Investigate the effect of preoperative bisphosphonate on osteoporosis patients undergoing corrective surgery for adult spinal deformity. Retrospective review of the PearlDiver database between the years 2008-2015. This study included 2,842 adult spinal deformity patients. Ninety-day complications, reoperations. Adult spinal deformity patients undergoing a fusion were isolated using ICD-9 CM and CPT codes in the PearlDiver database between the years 2008-2015. Patients were stratified based on diagnosis of osteoporosis and whether there was a filled prescription for bisphosphonate 6 months prior to surgery. ASD patients with osteoporosis and bisphosphonate use who underwent corrective intervention were compared with age- and sex-matched cohorts of osteoporotic and nonosteoporotic controls with no bisphosphonate prescriptions. Means comparison tests compared differences in demographics, comorbidities, 90-day complications, and 2Y reoperation rates. Logistic regression analysis assessed the odds of complication and reoperations controlling for age, sex, and comorbidities (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]). Statistical significance was set p<0.05. A total of 2,842 operative adult spinal deformity patients were isolated. Four hundred and six patients had osteoporosis and bisphosphonate use, 807 osteoporosis with no bisphosphonate use, and 1,629 non-osteoporosis patients. At baseline, osteoporosis patients had higher rates of obesity, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and peripheral vascular disease compared to osteoporotic bisphosphonate cohort. There were no differences in 90-day complication rates or 2Y reoperations rates between osteoporosis bisphosphonate users and osteoporosis controls (p>0.05). Compared to nonosteoporotic patients, osteoporosis patients with bisphosphonate use trended toward lower rates of revisions at 1Y (5% vs 7%) and 2Y (7% vs 8%, both p>0.05). In a matched cohort, osteoporosis patients treated preoperatively with bisphosphonates trended towards lower rates of revisions two years postoperatively compared to nonosteoporotic controls.

Replication of family nurture intervention: Enhancement of autonomic regulation in preterm infants

To determine if age is an independent predictor of surgical success in patients undergoing urethroplasty. Urethroplasty performed by excision and primary anastomosis depends on vascular collateralization. Successful augmented urethroplasty depends on graft neovascularization. Older patients have more comorbid conditions including peripheral vascular disease associated with reduced penile blood flow.This is a retrospective review of urethroplasties from 11 institutions. Primary outcome was functional success at 1 year from surgery, defined as freedom from post-urethroplasty procedures. Secondary outcome was freedom from cystoscopic evidence of stricture recurrence at 3 months. Study outcomes were compared between 2 age cohorts (<60 years old and ≥60 years old). Multivariable logistic regression analysis evaluated the influence of patient factors on our primary and secondary outcomes, using age as a continuous variable.Of 322 urethroplasties, 258 were performed in patients <60 years and 64 in patients ≥60 years. Median follow-up was 1.8 years. The following were not significantly different between groups: stricture length or location, smoking status, number of previous urethrotomies or dilations, and urethroplasty type. The following were more common in patients ≥60 years: diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery and peripheral vascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer. There was no difference in need for repeat procedures or anatomic recurrence between age groups or with increasing age. Stricture length was the only statistically significant clinical factor.Urethroplasty success may be affected by comorbidities but not age. Age alone should not be used as an absolute exclusion criterion for men needing urethral reconstruction.

A qualitative study exploring individuals’ experiences living with dysvascular lower limb amputation

Purpose The majority of lower extremity amputations (LEAs) are the result of diabetes or peripheral vascular disease. There is a paucity of literature on individuals’ experiences living with dysvascular LEAs in the community, particularly in Canada. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of community-dwelling adults living with dysvascular LEA. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with individuals with a dysvascular LEA recruited from three rehabilitation hospitals. Participants were included if they were English-speaking adults at least three months post-amputation and no longer receiving inpatient rehabilitation. Sampling was purposive to ensure variation by gender, level of amputation, and geographic location. Data were analyzed using an inductive content-analysis approach. Results Thirty-five interviews were completed with individuals with dysvascular LEA. Study participants portrayed LEA as having an impact on many aspects of their lives, resulting in changes in their mobility, social activities and roles, and psychological wellbeing. Three main factors shaped individuals’ experiences with dysvascular LEA including social support, accessibility, and socioeconomic factors. Conclusion Our findings highlight the impacts of dysvascular LEA in peoples’ lives. Future research is warranted to explore how community-based interventions and strategies can address the ongoing needs of individuals with dysvascular LEA. Implications for rehabilitation Our findings highlight the long-term impacts of dysvascular lower extremity amputations, which resulted in changes in mobility, social activities and roles, and psychological wellbeing. Participants identified issues in access to community services and resources, including rehabilitation. Mechanisms to identify people at risk for social isolation need to be developed and implemented in rehabilitation centers. Access to ongoing rehabilitation services in the community are needed to optimize mobility outcomes and address ongoing psychological needs.

Expansion and Evaluation of Pharmacist Services in Primary Care.

Challenges with primary care access and overextended providers present opportunities for pharmacists as patient care extenders for chronic disease management. The primary objective was to align primary care pharmacist services with organizational priorities and improve patient clinical outcomes. The secondary objective was to develop a technological strategy for service evaluation. An interdisciplinary workgroup developed primary care pharmacist services focused on improving performance measures and supporting the care team in alignment with ongoing population health initiatives. Pharmacist collaborative practice agreements (CPAs) were developed and implemented. An electronic dashboard was developed to capture service outcome measures. Blood pressure control to <140/90 mmHg was achieved in 74.15% of patients who engaged with primary care pharmacists versus 41.53% of eligible patients electing to follow usual care pathways. Appropriate statin use was higher in patients engaged with primary care pharmacists than in eligible patients electing to follow usual care pathways both for diabetes and ischemic vascular disease (12.4% and 2.2% higher, respectively). Seventeen of 54 possible process and outcome measures were identified and incorporated into an electronic dashboard. Primary care pharmacist services improve hypertension control and statin use. Service outcomes can be measured with discrete data from the electronic health record (EHR), and should align with organizational priorities.