Silent Damage by Micro-aspirations: Untangling the Connection of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and Achalasia With Interstitial Lung Disease.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) frequently triggers respiratory conditions such as asthma and pneumonia. Inflammation occurs as a result of aspirated material, leading to symptoms such as cough, sputum production, chest discomfort from the involvement of the lower respiratory tract, and voice hoarseness owing to the involvement of the larynx. Repeated exposure to irritants can lead to fibrosis in the lungs.

Trends and disparities in cardiovascular deaths in systemic lupus erythematosus: A population-based retrospective study in the United States from 1999 to 2020.

Purpose: This study aimed to analyze two decades of consecutive mortality data to investigate cardiovascular deaths in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) across the United States (US), identifying patterns and disparities in mortality rates.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using mortality data from the CDC WONDER database spanning 1999-2020. ICD-10 codes for diseases of circulatory system (I00-I99) and for SLE (M32) were used to identify cardiovascular-related deaths in SLE among adults aged 25 years and older at the time of death.

Meta-Analysis Comparing Drug-Coated Balloon Versus Plain Old Balloon Angioplasty for In-Stent Restenosis of Coronary Arteries.

Despite the advent of newer stents, in-stent restenosis has been a persistent and formidable challenge. Trials have demonstrated the superiority of drug-coated balloons over plain old balloon angioplasty. A recent AGENT IDE PRESTO (Prevention of REStenosis with Tranilast and its Outcomes) trial highlighted the need for a more comprehensive understanding; therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to elucidate their respective clinical outcomes.

Gender-based disparities in outcomes of coronary bifurcation stenting in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction: Around 15-20% of lesions necessitating percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) are attributed to coronary bifurcation lesions. We aim to study gender-based differences in PCI outcomes among bifurcation stents.

Methods: 3 studies were included after thorough systematic search using MEDLINE (EMBASE and PubMed).

Drug-eluting stent vs. Balloon angioplasty in patients with in-stent restenosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Introduction: In-stent restenosis (ISR) is seen in up to 20% of cases and is the primary cause of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) failure. With the use of re-stenting with a drug-eluting stent (DES), plain old balloon angioplasty (BA) use is decreasing. We aim to compare the efficacy and safety profile of DES over BA in the management of ISR.

Malicious Mushrooms.

Accidental ingestion of the toxic Death Cap mushroom, and others of the species, can occur due to their physical similarities with commonly edible fungi. Production of certain toxins which prevent protein synthesis can lead to fulminant organ failure and death. Although treatment is mostly supportive due to a lack of specific antidote, early recognition can aid in meaningful recovery.

Clinical outcomes of left bundle branch area pacing compared to right ventricular pacing: Results from the Geisinger-Rush Conduction System Pacing Registry.

Background: Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has been shown to be a feasible option for patients requiring ventricular pacing.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between LBBAP and RVP among patients undergoing pacemaker implantation METHODS: This observational registry included patients who underwent pacemaker implantations with LBBAP or RVP for bradycardia indications between April 2018 and October 2020. The primary composite outcome included all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization (HFH), or upgrade to biventricular pacing.

Practice Transformation: Professional Development Is Personal.

Current efforts to achieve practice transformation in our health care delivery system are, for good reason, primarily focused on technical change. Such efforts include meaningful use, population health metrics reporting, and the creation and sustaining of team-based patient-centered medical home delivery sites. If practice transformation is meant to ultimately and fundamentally transform the health care system and its culture to achieve the quadruple aim of better health, better care, affordability, and satisfaction of patients and providers, these technical changes are necessary but not sufficient.