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Assessing the Compliance and Accuracy of a National Australian Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) Database. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:e574. [PMID: 37785749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.1908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) Accurate cancer databases enable auditing of patient management, and this knowledge facilitates optimizing care. A multi-institutional organization, the largest single provider of radiation oncology services in Australia, has developed its own national database (ND). All patients are entered on the ND as a prerequisite for generating a radiotherapy prescription. A significant component of the ND is automated, but manual input from the treating radiation oncologist (RO) is also required. The purpose of this study was to assess the compliance and accuracy of the data entered on this ND for head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. MATERIALS/METHODS We included all HNC patients with either oral cavity cancer or oropharynx cancer (ICD-10 coding) treated between September 2021 and September 2022 to assess compliance. We randomly selected 25% of these cases and assigned them to 3 HNC ROs to manually review the accuracy of all clinical data points. RESULTS There were 166 HNC patients, 139 oropharynx and 27 oral cavity. Compliance in the 166 patients was excellent (94% or higher) for the majority of data points - age, gender, diagnosis ICD code, diagnosis date, laterality, TNM classification, radiotherapy dose, fractionation and technique and start and completion dates. Compliance was good (85% or more) for smoking history, use of chemotherapy, and p16 status (oropharynx). Compliance was poor (43%) for specific chemotherapy regimens. Accuracy was high (92% or higher) for diagnosis ICD code, smoking history, use of chemotherapy; good (87% or higher) for p16 status (oropharynx), laterality and histopathology; and poor for date of diagnosis (75%), TNM classification (62%) and specific chemotherapy regimens (29%). CONCLUSION The ND is a powerful tool for assessing patient care. Overall, compliance was very good. Accuracy was very good for most items, and we have highlighted areas where improvements can be made. This study shows that a compliant and accurate ND is achievable and supports the next goal of additional items to be included in the ND, specifically patient outcome data.
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Improving prioritization processes for clinical practice guidelines: new methods and an evaluation from the National Heart Foundation of Australia. Health Res Policy Syst 2023; 21:26. [PMID: 37020238 PMCID: PMC10075165 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-022-00953-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Releasing timely and relevant clinical guidelines is challenging for organizations globally. Priority-setting is crucial, as guideline development is resource-intensive. Our aim, as a national organization responsible for developing cardiovascular clinical guidelines, was to develop a method for generating and prioritizing topics for future clinical guideline development in areas where guidance was most needed. METHODS Several novel processes were developed, adopted and evaluated, including (1) initial public consultation for health professionals and the general public to generate topics; (2) thematic and qualitative analysis, according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), to aggregate topics; (3) adapting a criteria-based matrix tool to prioritize topics; (4) achieving consensus through a modified-nominal group technique and voting on priorities; and (5) process evaluation via survey of end-users. The latter comprised the organization's Expert Committee of 12 members with expertise across cardiology and public health, including two citizen representatives. RESULTS Topics (n = 405; reduced to n = 278 when duplicates removed) were identified from public consultation responses (n = 107 respondents). Thematic analysis synthesized 127 topics that were then categorized into 37 themes using ICD-11 codes. Exclusion criteria were applied (n = 32 themes omitted), resulting in five short-listed topics: (1) congenital heart disease, (2) valvular heart disease, (3) hypercholesterolaemia, (4) hypertension and (5) ischaemic heart diseases and diseases of the coronary artery. The Expert Committee applied the prioritization matrix to all five short-listed topics during a consensus meeting and voted to prioritize topics. Unanimous consensus was reached for the topic voted the highest priority: ischaemic heart disease and diseases of the coronary arteries, resulting in the decision to update the organization's 2016 clinical guidelines for acute coronary syndromes. Evaluation indicated that initial public consultation was highly valued by the Expert Committee, and the matrix tool was easy to use and improved transparency in priority-setting. CONCLUSION Developing a multistage, systematic process, incorporating public consultation and an international classification system led to improved transparency in our clinical guideline priority-setting processes and that topics chosen would have the greatest impact on health outcomes. These methods are potentially applicable to other national and international organizations responsible for developing clinical guidelines.
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Standard of practice in cardiology for pharmacy services. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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A Dose-Escalation Phase Ib International Study to Evaluate the Safety, Pharmacokinetics and Efficacy of ST-617 for the Attenuation of Oral Mucositis in Patients Receiving Chemoradiation for H&N Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.07.1107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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077 Effect of Cytochrome P450 Inhibition and Induction and Organic Anion Transporter 3 Inhibition on the Pharmacokinetics of Abrocitinib Active Moiety in Healthy Individuals. J Invest Dermatol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.08.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Cardiovascular disease risk assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged under 35 years: a consensus statement. Med J Aust 2020; 212:422-427. [PMID: 32172533 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.50529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This statement from the Australian Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation and the Editorial Committee for Remote Primary Health Care Manuals communicates the latest consensus advice of guideline developers, aligning recommendations on the age to commence Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CVD risk assessment across three guidelines. MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS: In Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples without existing CVD: CVD risk factor screening should commence from the age of 18 years at the latest, including for blood glucose level or glycated haemoglobin, estimated glomerular filtration rate, serum lipids, urine albumin to creatinine ratio, and other risk factors such as blood pressure, history of familial hypercholesterolaemia, and smoking status. Individuals aged 18-29 years with the following clinical conditions are automatically conferred high CVD risk: ▶type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria; ▶moderate to severe chronic kidney disease; ▶systolic blood pressure ≥ 180 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 110 mmHg; ▶familial hypercholesterolaemia; or ▶serum total cholesterol > 7.5 mmol/L. Assessment using the National Vascular Disease Prevention Alliance absolute CVD risk algorithm should commence from the age of 30 years at the latest - consider upward adjustment of calculated CVD risk score, accounting for local guideline use, risk factor and CVD epidemiology, and clinical discretion. Assessment should occur as part of an annual health check or opportunistically. Subsequent review should be conducted according to level of risk. CHANGES IN MANAGEMENT AS A RESULT OF THIS STATEMENT: From age 18 years (at the latest), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults should undergo CVD risk factor screening, and from age 30 years (at the latest), they should undergo absolute CVD risk assessment using the NVDPA risk algorithm.
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Anti-EGFR plus chemotherapy in unselected advanced oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma: less POWERful than expected. Ann Oncol 2020; 31:161-162. [PMID: 31959330 DOI: 10.1016/j.annonc.2019.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Trends of Use and Outcomes Associated With Glycoprotein-IIb/IIIa Inhibitors in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. Ann Pharmacother 2019; 54:414-422. [PMID: 31766865 DOI: 10.1177/1060028019889550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs) are a treatment option in the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACSs). Evidence supporting the use of GPIs predates trials establishing the benefits of P2Y12 inhibitors, routine early invasive therapy, and thrombectomy devices in patients with ACS. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine trends in GPI use and their associated outcomes in contemporary practice. Methods: We assessed GPI use in patients with ACS undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry (2005-2013). The primary endpoint was the 30-day incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The safety endpoint was in-hospital major bleeding. Results: GPIs were used in 40.5% of 12 357 patients with ACS undergoing PCI. GPI use decreased over the study period (P for trend <0.0001). Patients were more likely to receive GPIs if they were younger, presented with a ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), had more complex (B2/C-type) lesions, and when thrombectomy devices were used (all P < 0.0001). MACE were higher in patients receiving GPI (4.9% vs 4.1%, P = 0.03). Propensity score matching revealed no difference in 30-day mortality and 30-day MACE (odds ratio [OR] = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.99-1.004 and OR = 1.01; 95% CI = 0.99-1.02, respectively). GPI use was associated with more bleeding complications (3.6% vs 1.8%, P < 0.0001). Conclusion and Relevance: GPI use in ACS patients undergoing PCI has declined, and use appears to be dictated by ACS type and lesion complexity, as opposed to high-risk comorbidities. GPI use was associated with a doubling in bleeding complications.
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Response to "Paradise Lost? New National Heart Foundation of Australia Guidelines on Heart Failure Fail to Recognise the Intensity of Exercise Evidence". Heart Lung Circ 2019; 29:e9. [PMID: 31320257 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2019.06.721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Living Guidelines for Absolute Cardiovascular Disease Risk Assessment and Management. Heart Lung Circ 2019; 28:829-832. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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People with severe problematic personality traits and offending histories: What influences occupational participation? Eur Psychiatry 2019; 60:14-19. [PMID: 31100608 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2019.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occupational participation is important for personality disordered offenders (PDOs) because it is integral to health and desistance from offending. What influences occupational participation is unknown for PDOs in the community, limiting effective intervention to affect change. In England and Wales, the Offender Personality Disorder Pathway aims to improve outcomes for people considered highly likely to have a severe personality disorder and who present a high risk of reoffending, who are determined to be PDOs on the basis of a structured assessment. This study identified the influencers of occupational participation for the population who receive this service. METHOD In this critical realist, qualitative study, narrative interviews were conducted with 18 PDOs supervised by probation in England. Transcripts were analyzed using a grounded theory approach to establish influencers of occupational participation. RESULTS Four themes describe influencers of occupational participation: function of occupations; influence of the past; external forces; and learning and adaptation. The latter theme reflected understandings of occupational adaptation described by the Model of Human Occupation. CONCLUSIONS An intervention to increase prosocial occupational participation should be developed and evaluated for PDOs in the community, taking account of occupational participation over the life course.
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Stroke Risk Stratification: CHA 2DS 2-VA or CHA 2DS 2-VASc? Heart Lung Circ 2019; 28:e103. [PMID: 30935621 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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National Heart Foundation of Australia and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand: Australian Clinical Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Atrial Fibrillation 2018. Heart Lung Circ 2019; 27:1209-1266. [PMID: 30077228 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2018.06.1043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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COMPARING COMMUNITY-BASED AND EMR RECRUITMENT FOR ENGAGING OLDER MINORITY ADULTS: RESULTS FROM TAKE HEART. Innov Aging 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igy023.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Formative Evaluation of the Impact of a Preschool Obesity Prevention (I-POP!) Curriculum: Focus Group Findings. J Acad Nutr Diet 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2018.08.095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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I-POP! Development of a Nutrition Education and Positive Behavioral Support Program in Mississippi Head Start Centers. J Acad Nutr Diet 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2018.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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National Heart Foundation of Australia and Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand: Australian clinical guidelines for the management of heart failure 2018. Med J Aust 2018; 209:363-369. [DOI: 10.5694/mja18.00647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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National Heart Foundation of Australia and Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand: Australian clinical guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation 2018. Med J Aust 2018; 209:356-362. [DOI: 10.5694/mja18.00646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Patterns of care and clinical outcomes for gastric and gastro-oesophageal cancers in South Australian population: Initial results of a state-wide audit. Ann Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy151.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Implementation of a Partnered Nurse and Pharmacist-Led Early Follow-Up Heart Failure Clinic. Heart Lung Circ 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2018.06.148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Prophylaxis and Management of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation and Flutter in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Coronary Artery Disease and Valvular Heart Disease. Heart Lung Circ 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2018.06.745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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22
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Outcomes Associated with the Implementation of an Evidence-Based Consensus Guideline for Antithrombotic Therapy for Valvular Heart Surgery. Heart Lung Circ 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2016.06.691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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23
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RAD51 and BRCA2 enhance oncolytic adenovirus type 5 activity in ovarian cancer. Eur J Cancer 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(16)61441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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THU0200 Effect of Methotrexate Dose on The Efficacy of Tofacitinib: Treatment Outcomes from A Phase 3 Clinical Trial of Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2016. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-eular.1274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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THU0165 Long-Term Radiographic and Patient-Reported Outcomes Based on Clinical Disease Activity Index Responses with Tofacitinib at 6 Months. Ann Rheum Dis 2016. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-eular.1264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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26
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EP-1480: A comprehensive analysis of immuno- and immunoradiotherapy trial design developments from 2000-2014. Radiother Oncol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(16)32730-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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A case of ST elevation myocardial infarction precipitated by methylphenidate therapy for gait freeze. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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SAT0220 Radiographic Progression in Modern RA Trials is Still a Robust Outcome: Results of Comprehensive Sensitivity Analysis in Two Phase 3 Trials with Tofacitinib. Ann Rheum Dis 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-eular.1962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Minority Health Perceptions in the Lower Mississippi Delta: A Grounded Theory Study Using PhotoVoice Methodology. J Acad Nutr Diet 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jand.2014.06.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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THU0140 Tofacitinib (CP-690,550), an oral janus kinase inhibitor: Analysis of gastrointestinal adverse events across the rheumatoid arthritis clinical programme. Ann Rheum Dis 2014. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2012-eular.2105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Eating patterns of children in the Delta: Developing a child food frequency questionnaire for this rural impoverished population. FASEB J 2007. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.21.6.lb47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Community‐based Participatory Research: Benefits and Challenges in the Hollandale Fit for Life Steps Program. FASEB J 2006. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.20.4.a130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Conducting needs assessment using the Comprehensive Participatory Planning and Evaluation model to develop nutrition and physical activity interventions in a rural Lower Mississippi Delta community. FASEB J 2006. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.20.5.a1008-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Encystation of Acanthamoeba castellanii: Dye uptake for assessment by flow cytometry and confocal laser scanning microscopy. J Appl Microbiol 2001; 90:706-12. [PMID: 11348429 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2672.2001.01296.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To develop rapid means of distinguishing between cysts and trophozoites of the opportunistic pathogen, Acanthamoeba castellanii, the causative agent of keratitis. METHODS AND RESULTS Fluorescence of Congo Red, Calcoflor White was specific for the endocyst wall; trophozoites did not become fluorescent. The anionic oxonol dye, DiBAC4(3), did not penetrate the cytoplasmic membrane after short-term (<5 min) exposure, whereas cysts are permeable and become fluorescent. Confocal scanning laser microscopy confirmed these properties and large populations of organisms were analysed by flow cytometry. CONCLUSION These data provide a rapid alternative to traditional haemocytometer or plate counts for discrimination of trophozoites from cysts. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Rapid and precise determination of the growth cycle of a dangerous ocular pathogen.
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Sputum and serum pharmacokinetics of loracarbef (LY163892) in patients with bronchial sepsis. J Antimicrob Chemother 1995; 36:446-7. [PMID: 8522479 DOI: 10.1093/jac/36.2.446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
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Abstract
AIMS To develop a rapid, sensitive, and reproducible test for the detection of beta lactamase in sputum, and to relate these findings to bacteriological culture results. METHODS One hundred and twenty sputum samples from inpatients were investigated for beta lactamase activity using the chromogenic cephalosporin nitrocefin. Sputum samples were sonicated and incubated aerobically at 37 degrees C with nitrocefin for up to two hours. Positive results (production of a red colour) were treated with blue sepharose beads to remove albumin (which can cause non-specific hydrolysis of nitrocefin) and retested. Samples were also cultured for both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, with all isolates being tested for beta lactamase production using nitrocefin. All positive sputum samples and beta lactamase producing isolates were further examined by isoelectric focusing (IEF) to determine isoelectric point(s) (pIs). RESULTS The process of sonication and albumin removal had no demonstrable effect on beta lactamase activity. Forty seven of the 120 sputum samples were positive on initial testing, and of these, 16 remained positive following removal of albumin. These 16 subsequently yielded 19 beta lactamase producing bacteria. All sputum samples yielding beta lactamase producing bacteria were also positive on direct nitrocefin testing. On no occasion were sputum samples positive in the absence of enzyme producing bacteria--that is, the test was both 100% specific and 100% sensitive. The presence of beta lactamase activity in the sputum samples was also confirmed using a microbiological method. In 11 sputum samples the beta lactamases detected had similar pI values to the beta lactamases obtained from their bacterial isolates. CONCLUSION Detection of beta lactamase activity in sputum using nitrocefin, after treatment with blue sepharose beads, is a rapid, reproducible test with high specificity and sensitivity. Analytical isoelectric focusing showed that for 11 of the 16 positive sputa, the source of the beta lactamases could be traced to their concurrent bacterial isolates.
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Immediate postpartum intrauterine device insertion--a report on the Chinese experience. ADVANCES IN CONTRACEPTION : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF CONTRACEPTION 1992; 8:281-90. [PMID: 1290330 DOI: 10.1007/bf02042586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Immediate postplacental insertion (IPPI) of the intrauterine device (IUD) has been practiced in China for at least 17 years. This presentation reviews and integrates the clinical experiences of IPPIs at five Chinese centers. The stainless-steel ring IUD was the most commonly used device for this procedure. Our review indicates that: (a) IPPIs-both after vaginal delivery and at cesarean section-are medically safe and effective in preventing accidental pregnancies (given careful patient selection), and (b) the one-year life-table expulsion rates of IUDs inserted at cesarean section are lower than the rates for vaginal insertions after normal delivery. This review also discusses other issues, such as factors influencing expulsion rates. Generally, IPPIs, whether performed via vagina or cesarean section, seem to be a method of choice for postpartum contraception. Some findings are, however, tentative; thus, further studies are needed.
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Predictors of employee involvement in a worksite health promotion program. HEALTH EDUCATION QUARTERLY 1990; 17:395-407. [PMID: 2262320 DOI: 10.1177/109019819001700404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Although worksite health promotion programs have proliferated, little is known about the population they reach. This study of employees of a large utility company compared whether the same characteristics which predict recruitment also predict extended participation. The study also prospectively assessed how risk factors are related to employees' on-going extended participation. The findings demonstrate that sociodemographic predictors of recruitment are almost mirror images of the predictors of extended participation. Over time employees who are at higher risk for cardiovascular disease participated in on-going sessions less frequently. Data suggest that referral to targeted sessions does not result in higher rates of attendance by employees with a particular risk factor, although there is no evidence of selective avoidance. Organizational influences on participation evident from the beginning are sustained through four sessions. Programs targeting higher risk employees nested within worksite-wide programs may be useful to increase the extended participation of individuals at elevated risk for heart disease.
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Propafenone versus disopyramide: a double-blind randomized crossover trial in patients presenting chronic ventricular arrhythmias. Clin Cardiol 1987; 10:405-10. [PMID: 2440632 DOI: 10.1002/clc.4960100707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro and in vivo electrophysiological studies have shown that propafenone could be classified as a class I antiarrhythmic agent. The aim of this study was to investigate the short-term antiarrhythmic efficacy and safety of propafenone in 10 patients compared to disopyramide in a double-blind randomized protocol. Included patients suffered from ventricular arrhythmias with at least 60 ventricular premature beats (VPB) per hour refractory to at least two other antiarrhythmic agents. At the end of the control period and of the two treatment periods during which patients received either propafenone (300 mg three times a day) or disopyramide (200 mg three times a day), clinical examination, Holter recordings, electrocardiogram, and clinical laboratory tests were performed. The PR interval and the QRS interval were significantly increased with propafenone, but not with disopyramide. The cQT interval was not significantly changed by either propafenone or disopyramide. Heart rate was decreased with propafenone (p less than 0.05) with no change in the diurnal/nocturnal circadian ratio variation. Heart rate was significantly decreased with disopyramide only during the day. Five of nine patients in the propafenone group and two of nine patients in the disopyramide group showed a reduction in ventricular premature beats greater than 80%. Total resolution of severe arrhythmias (repetitive events) was seen in 5 of 8 patients with propafenone; 2 of 8 with disopyramide. Adverse events, when they occurred, were mild (visual disturbances, epigastric discomfort, changes in taste perception, transient atrioventricular block with propafenone, and photophobia with disopyramide), and did not require reduction or discontinuation of study drug.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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A quantitative examination of the light scattering properties of immune complexes in polyethylene glycol. J Immunol Methods 1983; 60:101-13. [PMID: 6854025 DOI: 10.1016/0022-1759(83)90339-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The effect of polyethylene glycol on the light scattering properties of immune complexes prepared in vitro was examined. Immune complexes were prepared in the zone of antigen excess from purified rabbit anti-ovalbumin and ovalbumin at 2-32 times (X) the equivalence ratio. Immune complex concentration was determined by analytical ultracentrifugation. Immune complexes were then incubated for 1 h in solutions containing 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4% polyethylene glycol (PEG), and examined in a laser nephelometer. The effect of PEG on light scattering (%RLS) was different for each immune complex combining ratio, although for each immune complex combining ratio, there was a linear relationship between the light scattered and immune complex concentration. To evaluate the effect of serum proteins on the light scattered by the immune complexes, immune complexes made at 4X and 16X the equivalence ratio were placed in serum and the sera containing these immune complexes were examined in the nephelometer. The ratio of the %RLS of the immune complexes in serum to the sum of the %RLS of the same immune complexes in saline plus the %RLS of serum alone was determined. This ratio varied systematically with changes in combining ratio and PEG concentration, as well as the concentration of the immune complexes themselves. Depending on the combination of these 3 factors, serum could increase, decrease or have no effect on the quantity of light scattered by the immune complexes. Discrimination between serum alone and serum containing immune complexes was best in 3% PEG.
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PACT: a pet placement organization for the elderly living at home. Aging (Albany NY) 1982:19-25. [PMID: 10258125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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Infant feeding practices: the effect on six month weight. THE JOURNAL OF THE KANSAS MEDICAL SOCIETY 1981; 82:403-6. [PMID: 7288260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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