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Performance of cognitive vs. image-guided fusion biopsy for detection of overall and clinically significant prostate cancer in a multiethnic population. Urol Oncol 2024; 42:29.e1-29.e8. [PMID: 38114350 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2023.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy remains the most used method for the detection of prostate cancer. We recently reported that detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (cs-CaP) using image-guided fusion biopsies (IGFB) varied by race/ethnicity, which calls for further comparison between cognitive fusion biopsy (CFB) and IGFB among non-Hispanic black and Hispanic populations. Therefore, the aim of our study is to compare the rates of detection of cs-CaP and overall CaP by CFB and IGFB in a multiethnic community. MATERIAL AND METHODS We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional review of men who underwent MRI-transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy at our diverse, urban academic medical center. Agreement and discordance between fusion biopsies and systematic biopsies for detection of cs-CaP and overall CaP were determined using Kappa statistics. Univariate and multivariate mixed-effects logistic regression models were used to find associations between fusion modalities and prostate cancer detection. RESULTS In total, 710 men underwent fusion prostate biopsies between December 2015 and June 2021. Upon univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, there was no significant association between IGFB vs. CFB and risk of overall CaP (OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.36-1.21, P = 0.18) or cs-CaP (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.30-1.08, P = 0.09). We found moderate agreement between fusion and systematic biopsies for both CFB (κ = 0.56) and IGFB (κ = 0.52) in cs-CaP. CONCLUSIONS CFB and IGFB offer similar detection rates of cs-CaP in a multiethnic population. CFB represents an effective and accessible means of accurately diagnosing prostate cancer.
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Industrialized human gut microbiota increases CD8+ T cells and mucus thickness in humanized mouse gut. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2266627. [PMID: 37853762 PMCID: PMC10588527 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2266627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Immigration to a highly industrialized nation has been associated with metabolic disease and simultaneous shifts in microbiota composition, but the underlying mechanisms are challenging to test in human studies. Here, we conducted a pilot study to assess the differential effects of human gut microbiota collected from the United States (US) and rural Thailand on the murine gut mucosa and immune system. Colonization of germ-free mice with microbiota from US individuals resulted in an increased accumulation of innate-like CD8 T cells in the small intestine lamina propria and intra-epithelial compartments when compared to colonization with microbiota from Thai individuals. Both TCRγδ and CD8αα T cells showed a marked increase in mice receiving Western microbiota and, interestingly, this phenotype was also associated with an increase in intestinal mucus thickness. Serendipitously, an accidentally infected group of mice corroborated this association between elevated inflammatory response and increased mucus thickness. These results suggest that Western-associated human gut microbes contribute to a pro-inflammatory immune response.
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Implementation and Usability of an Electronic Medical Record-based Ureteral Stent Tracker. Urology 2023; 173:81-86. [PMID: 36572224 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To design and implement a simple electronic medical record-based ureteral stent tracker. To assess its impact on stent dwell time and stent-related complications. METHODS Patients with stents placed 12 months before and 6 months after stent tracker implementation were identified at 3 urban hospitals. Those with stents-on-strings and intentional chronic indwelling stents (greater than 90 days) were excluded. Patient demographics, stent characteristics (eg, indication, string, dwell time), and clinical outcomes (eg, positive urine cultures, complications) were reviewed and compared between pre- and posttracker cohorts. A 12-question usability survey was administered to surgical nurses to assess usability. RESULTS A total of 323 stents (173 pre- and 150 posttracker) were placed in 217 patients. The prestent tracker cohort had a longer mean dwell time (pre: 40.9 ± 59.1 days vs post: 28.8 ± 22.0 days, P = .02) and a higher retention rate >90 days (pre: 8.1% [14/173] vs post: 1.3% [2/150], P = .005). The 2 cohorts had no significant differences in positive urine culture rates, patient phone calls to providers, stent-related emergency department visits, or hospitalizations. The usability survey showed that 86.4% of surgical nurses found the tracker to be user-friendly and 95.5% reported that it added less than 1 minute of work per procedure. CONCLUSION Implementation of an electronic medical record-based ureteral stent tracker decreased average stent dwell time and frequency of retained stents. Surgical nurses reported the tracker to be user-friendly and convenient. Stent trackers can improve the efficiency of postoperative removal of indwelling ureteral stents.
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Urine Cytology Rarely Escalates Clinical Management in the Surveillance of Non-muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer. Clin Genitourin Cancer 2022; 21:258-264. [PMID: 36621462 DOI: 10.1016/j.clgc.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The use of urine cytology in the surveillance of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) is widely variable in clinical practice. We studied the impact of surveillance urine cytology on clinical decision making during NMIBC surveillance. METHODS A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients surveilled for clinical NMIBC from 2013 to 2020 with at least one follow-up cytology result after diagnosis. Patients were classified into risk categories according to American Urological Association (AUA) NMIBC guidelines. Data were obtained regarding tumor recurrence pathology and the frequency and findings of surveillance cystoscopies and urine cytologies. Positive (suspicious, malignant) and negative (atypical or negative for malignant cells) cytology results were correlated with cystoscopy and pathology findings when obtained within 3 months of the cytology specimen to determine if cytology impacted plan of care. RESULTS Two hundred fourteen patients with NMIBC were followed for a median of 34 months, with 1045 urine cytologies collectively obtained over the surveillance period. There were no positive urine cytologies among patients with low-risk NMIBC; therefore, cytology did not change management in this cohort. The potential for cytology to escalate management for patients of any risk group (ie, positive cytology in the absence of positive cystoscopy or pathology findings) occurred in 30 (2.9%) cases. However, clinical decision making was only altered in 4 cases (0.4% of all cytologies). CONCLUSIONS Less than 1% of urine cytology specimens collected during NMIBC surveillance impacted clinical management, none of whom had low-risk disease. The use of urine cytology for surveillance of low-risk NMIBC should continue to be strongly discouraged, as it did not change management in any such cases.
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Accuracy of prostate cancer screening recommendations for high-risk populations on YouTube and TikTok. BJUI COMPASS 2022; 4:206-213. [PMID: 36816146 PMCID: PMC9931542 DOI: 10.1002/bco2.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to evaluate content quality and racial/ethnic representation, particularly of high-risk cohorts, of prostate cancer screening videos on YouTube (YT) and TikTok (TK). Materials and Methods The top 50 videos populated for the search term 'prostate cancer screening' on YT and TK that met inclusion criteria were retrieved in a cache-cleared browser. Three reviewers analysed all videos using validated criteria for the quality of consumer health information (DISCERN and Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool [PEMAT]). High quality was defined as follows: DISCERN ≥ 4, PEMAT understandability ≥75% and PEMAT actionability ≥75%. A 5-point Likert scale was used to demonstrate the level of misinformation compared to American Urological Association and National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. Perceived race and ethnicity of people in the videos were assessed by consensus approach. Results TK videos were shorter (median 3.7 vs. 0.5 min, p < 0.001) and had more views per month (5437.5 vs. 19.3, p = 0.03) than YT videos. Perceived Black and Hispanic representation was present in 10% and 6% of YT videos and 20% and 12% of TK videos, respectively. High-risk racial/ethnic groups were explicitly discussed in 46% of YT videos and 8% of TK videos. A total of 98% of YT videos and 100% of TK videos had low- to moderate-quality consumer health information, and 88% of YT videos and 100% of TK videos had moderate to high levels of misinformation based on screening guidelines. Conclusions YT and TK videos about prostate cancer screening are widely viewed but do not provide quality consumer health information. Black and Hispanic men remain under-represented on both platforms, and high-risk racial groups were not discussed in most videos despite the importance for screening criteria. The low understandability and actionability, significant misinformation and lack of diversity in online videos support the need for higher quality videos with adequate attention to high-risk ethnic cohorts.
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Idiopathic bilateral ureteral stenosis presenting as bilateral hydronephrosis. Urol Case Rep 2022; 45:102245. [PMID: 36238444 PMCID: PMC9551072 DOI: 10.1016/j.eucr.2022.102245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Ureteral stenosis is typically seen in the setting of genitourinary tract manipulation or nephrolithiasis. Bilateral idiopathic ureteral stenosis is an exceedingly rare clinical entity that has been described in only a small number of cases. More specifically, we describe a case of idiopathic bilateral, distal ureteral stenosis resulting in hydronephrosis and deterioration of renal function in an adolescent patient. The patient was successfully treated with robotic bilateral ureteral implants. This case brings to light a rare, but clinically relevant, cause of hydronephrosis, highlights the importance of early intervention in minimizing renal dysfunction, and describes a novel treatment option.
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Shotgun sequencing of the faecal microbiome to predict response to steroids in patients with lower gastrointestinal acute graft-versus-host disease: An exploratory analysis. Br J Haematol 2020; 192:e69-e73. [PMID: 33222185 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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0190 Impact of Menopause-Related Sleep Fragmentation on Daytime Sleepiness and Neurobehavioral Performance: Results of an Experimental Model. Sleep 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsaa056.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction
Cognitive performance may be adversely affected during the menopause transition from hot flash-induced sleep fragmentation even without changes in sleep duration. We examined the effects of experimentally-induced sleep fragmentation without shortened sleep duration on daytime sleepiness and neurobehavioral performance in women in a high and low estradiol (E2) state.
Methods
Seven pre-menopausal women (29.4 ± 3.8 years) participated in two 6-day inpatient studies repeated in a high-E2 (mid-to-late follicular phase) then low-E2 state (gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist-induced E2 suppression - similar to levels during menopause) ~6 weeks apart. Sleep was uninterrupted on nights 1–2 [8-h time-in-bed (TIB)] and fragmented on nights 3–5 (9-h TIB) using an auditory stimulus delivered every 15 min that sustained wake for 2 minutes, producing 1-h total wake after sleep onset. Wakefulness was confirmed by event-markers during polysomnographically-recorded sleep episodes. Daytime subjective sleepiness (Karolinska Sleepiness Scale; KSS) and neurobehavioral performance (Psychomotor Vigilance Task; PVT) were assessed every 2–3 hours on study days 2–5. The effects of study day and E2 state on KSS scores and PVT measured reaction time (RT) and attentional failures (RT>500ms) were examined using linear mixed models.
Results
Participants reported feeling sleepier (+10%), had longer RTs (+22ms), and more attentional failures (+53%) after sleep fragmentation than after uninterrupted sleep (all p<0.001). While there was no main effect of E2 state, there was a differential effect of sleep fragmentation by E2 state on PVT, but not sleepiness, such that the increase in RT and attentional failures in response to sleep fragmentation was only observed in the high-E2 state (p<0.001).
Conclusion
Eight hours of total sleep time may not be sufficient to maintain subjective sleepiness and PVT performance levels when sleep is not consolidated. These findings have important implications for understanding the role of sleep and E2-modulated cognitive impairment during the menopause transition.
Support
This work was supported by the NIH: 5R01 AG053838-02 (HJ) and K24-HL105664 (EBK).
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Use of hardware modified phones for exposure assessment in health studies in Australia: verification of compliance with standards. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 32:62-7. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03178630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Abstract
Turkey poults vaccinated at one day of age with commercial inactivated Pasteurella multocida (PM) bacterin responded with low titres of antibody (ab) as measured by ELISA, but had an acceptable degree of resistance when challenged with the X-73 strain of PM until 13 weeks of age. Turkeys vaccinated at 3 and/or 6 weeks of age responded with higher ab titres and were resistant to virulent challenge with PM. Turkey poults vaccinated at 3 and/or 6 weeks of age with a commercial live PM vaccine had a poor immune response and low resistance to virulent challenge. When live PM vaccine was given to turkey poults previously vaccinated with an oil-emulsion PM bacterin, the turkey poults were highly resistant to virulent challenge, although the booster vaccination did not always induce a significant increase in the ab titres. The ELISA test used did not appear to be adequate for evaluation of the degree of protection induced in turkey flocks vaccinated at a very young age.
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Methods and interventions. Occup Environ Med 2007. [DOI: 10.1136/oem.64.12.e25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of environmental factors and ambient concentrations of grass pollen on allergic asthma are yet to be established. OBJECTIVE We sought to estimate the independent effects of grass pollen concentrations in the air over Melbourne on asthma hospital admissions for the 1992-1993 pollen season. METHODS Daily grass pollen concentrations were monitored over a 24-h period at three stations in Melbourne. The outcome variable was defined as all-age asthma hospital admissions with ICD9-493 codes. The ambient air pollutants were average daily measures of ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, and the airborne particle index representing fine particulate pollution. Semi-parametric Poisson regression models were used to estimate these effects, adjusted for air temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall, day-of-the-week effects and seasonal variation. RESULTS Grass pollen was a strong independent non-linear predictor of asthma hospital admissions in a multi-pollutant model (P=0.01). Our data suggest that grass pollen had an increasing effect on asthma hospital admissions up to a threshold of 30 grains/m3, and that the effect remains stable thereafter. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that grass pollen levels influence asthma hospital admissions. High grass pollen days, currently defined as more than 50 grains/m3, are days when most sensitive individuals will experience allergic symptoms. However, some asthmatic patients may be at a significant risk even when airborne grass pollen levels are below this level. Patients with pollen allergies and asthma would be advised to take additional preventive medication at lower ambient concentrations.
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P663 Worldwide antimicrobial susceptibility patterns among E. coli isolated from intra-abdominal infections (IAI): results from SMART 2005. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(07)70504-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Meta-analysis of the Effect of Thiazolidinediones on Restenosis After Coronary Artery Stenting in Patients with or Without Diabetes Mellitus. Heart Lung Circ 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2007.06.429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Encasement of bedding does not improve asthma in atopic adult asthmatics. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2005; 139:132-8. [PMID: 16374022 DOI: 10.1159/000090388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2005] [Accepted: 09/14/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM We evaluated the impact of impermeable bed covers on asthma in asthmatics with clinically relevant house dust mite (HDM) sensitization. METHODS The study included 32 HDM-sensitized asthmatics in whom HDM allergy was considered as a significant factor in their asthma. They were randomized into either an intervention group whose bedding was encased with impermeable covers, or a control group who received cotton covers. Before and 3 and 6 months after encasement, dust samples were collected from the bedding and assayed for Der p 1. Clinical outcomes included quality of life, lung function, bronchial reactivity to methacholine, symptoms, medications and peak flow rates. RESULTS Baseline Der p 1 levels in both the active and the placebo groups were comparable and high (19.2 vs 18.9 microg/g of dust). There was a significant reduction in Der p 1 levels in the active group after 6 months, but not in the placebo group (7.3 vs 21.9 microg/g of dust). Quality of life improved significantly in both the intervention and control groups, but there was no significant difference in the improvements between the groups. There was no significant change in lung function, symptoms, and requirements for medications. CONCLUSIONS Encasement of bedding significantly reduced the Der p 1 levels. However, this was not sufficient to produce worthwhile clinical improvement in those in whom dust mite avoidance might well have been recommended as part of their clinical management.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that childhood vaccinations may be associated with the onset of asthma. We investigated the association between asthma, atopy and vaccination history in a cohort of young adults living in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS Subjects were aged between 22 and 44 years and were surveyed by an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Questions were asked about vaccinations to measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), triple antigen (DTP), hepatitis B and Sabin polio vaccine (OPV). Atopy was assessed by skin prick testing to common aeroallergens. RESULTS There was no significant association observed for subjects diagnosed with asthma who had received measles or MMR vaccinations compared with those who did not receive measles or MMR vaccinations (RR 1.33, 95% CI 0.98-1.80). Non-significant associations were also observed for OPV and hepatitis B vaccinations (RR 3.27, 95% CI 0.50-21.3 and RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.83-1.41, respectively). However, subjects reporting full immunisation were found to be at higher risk to asthma (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.09-2.11) but not atopy. CONCLUSIONS Our results show relatively weak support for the hypothesis that childhood vaccinations may lead to increased risk of asthma, but caution is advised due to possible recall bias.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Major epidemiological studies in asthma use the question: "How many attacks of asthma have you had in the last 12 months?" We set out to study what constitutes an asthma attack from the perspective of people with asthma. We also examined concordance between qualitative responses and standard quantitative measures of this question. METHODS Individuals aged 18 to 70 years who sought care for asthma at Emergency Departments in an Australian central city, a suburban and a regional hospital were recruited. Sixty two (43 women and 19 men) participants were interviewed in depth. All interviews were taped, transcribed and thematically analyzed. Demographic data and responses to respiratory health data were also collected. FINDINGS Widely varying responses to the question, "How many attacks of asthma have you had in the last 12 months?" were found in the quantitative data set. Comparison of quantitative and qualitative data sets showed good agreement between these two responses (intraclass correlation 0.66). People defined asthma attacks as "major" and "minor," as determined by the degree of personal control they were able to exercise. A strongly unifying description of a severe attack was that it was "out of control." Patient's recognized that upper respiratory tract infections commonly triggered major attacks. INTERPRETATION A commonly asked question about the number of asthma attacks in the past year needs refinement in order to enhance validity. Asthma action plans should use the words "out of control" when defining a severe attack of asthma.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma treatment guidelines currently recommend a 'therapeutic partnership' to achieve best care. It is frequently assumed that individuals presenting to emergency departments with asthma do not have a good doctor-patient relationship. We asked what is the nature of patients' relationships with their doctors in those presenting to hospital emergency departments for asthma care. METHODS A qualitative study of all consenting individuals aged 18-70 years who presented to a hospital emergency department over 2 months was carried out. Sixty-two participants (19 male) engaged in in-depth interviews which were taped, transcribed and underwent thematic analysis. Questionnaire data were also collected and asthma severity determined. RESULTS Nearly all patients (61/62) had a doctor whom they saw for their asthma. Patients made thoughtful choices on where they sought care according to their needs. Our findings identified that perceptions of doctors' competence, listening to patients and time constraints were important influences on doctor-patient relationships. Participants had strong expectations that their personal disease experience would be acknowledged by their doctors. CONCLUSION This group of patients had doctors who cared for their asthma. The acceptability of medical care was determined as much by patient choice as by the quality of the doctor-patient relationship.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND While population based screening for lung cancer has not been adopted by most countries, it is not clear whether sputum examinations, chest radiography or newer methods such as computed tomography are effective in reducing mortality from lung cancer. OBJECTIVES To determine whether screening for lung cancer using regular sputum examinations or chest radiography or CT chest reduces lung cancer mortality. SEARCH STRATEGY Electronic databases (the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, PREMEDLINE and EMBASE; 1966 to July 2000) ), bibliographies, hand searching of a journal and discussion with experts were used to identify published and unpublished trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Controlled trials of screening for lung cancer using sputum examinations, chest radiography or CT chest. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Intention to screen analysis was performed. Where there was significant statistical heterogeneity relative risks were reported using the random effects model, but for other outcomes the fixed effect model was used. MAIN RESULTS Seven trials were included (6 randomised controlled studies and 1 non-randomised controlled trial) with a total of 245,610 subjects. There were no studies with an unscreened control group. Frequent screening with chest x-rays was associated with an 11% relative increase in mortality from lung cancer compared with less frequent screening (RR 1.11, CI: 1.00-1.23). A non statistically significant trend was observed to reduced mortality from lung cancer when screening with chest x-ray and sputum cytology was compared with chest x-ray alone (RR 0.88, CI:0.74-1.03). Several of the included studies had potential methodological weaknesses. There were no controlled studies of spiral CT. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS The current evidence does not support screening for lung cancer with chest radiography or sputum cytology. Frequent chest x-ray screening might be harmful. Further, methodologically rigorous trials are required.
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Enhancing Validity: What Counts as an Asthma Attack? J Asthma 2004. [DOI: 10.1081/jas-12199899] [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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Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Asthma Campaign (NAC) was launched in Australia in 1989 with the major objective of improving asthma management through the implementation of a six-step asthma management plan. AIM The objective of the present study was to analyse the management of asthma in a cohort of adults with self-reported asthma 10 years after the commencement of the NAC. METHODS The subjects were participants in the laboratory phase of a cross-sectional epidemiological study conducted in Melbourne in 1999-2000. Participants completed the detailed European Community Respiratory Health Survey, which included specific questions about their asthma management. Participants were included in this analysis if they had a positive response to the question 'Have you ever had asthma?'. This resulted in a total of 435 subjects. RESULTS Of the subjects with self-reported asthma, over half of the participants reported that a doctor had ever measured their breathing (52.9%). However, only 10.1% of participants reported that they owned a peakflow meter (PFM) and only 13.3% reported that they had ever been given a written action plan. In comparison with data reported from 1993, doctor measurement of lung function has decreased significantly (P < 0.000 1), as has PFM ownership (P < 0.0001) and, importantly, possession of a written action plan (P = 0.0004). CONCLUSIONS Asthma management among adults still falls well short of NAC guidelines. The decline in some key features over recent years suggests that new management and dissemination strategies are required.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of current levels of indoor fungi on asthma is a controversial issue that needs to be resolved in order to advise patients appropriately. OBJECTIVE To assess the seasonal variation in indoor fungal levels and the impact of these levels on asthma among mould-sensitized individuals. METHODS Thirty-five young adults with current asthma and sensitization to fungi were visited four times over 1 year. At each home visit a questionnaire was administered and samples of dust and air were collected. Participants also recorded information on symptoms, peak expiratory flows (PEF) and medication use. Dust samples were analysed for house dust mite allergen (Der p 1) and total fungal biomass (ergosterol). Total and genus-specific fungal propagules were identified in air samples. Seasonal variation in allergen levels and significant independent effects of fungal levels on peak flow variability (PFV) were identified by repeated measures analysis of variance. RESULTS Significant seasonal variations were observed in viable airborne fungi, ergosterol levels in the floor dust and PFV. PFV correlated significantly with symptom scores and the dose of reliever medication. PFV was also significantly associated with smoking and visible mould. The association between visible mould and PFV was independent of season, smoking and the dose of reliever medication. However, there was no association between total fungi, specific fungi or ergosterol and PFV. Der p 1 levels had no significant influence on asthma, even in HDM-sensitized individuals. CONCLUSIONS Mouldy homes adversely influence asthma in asthmatics sensitized to fungi.
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Abstract
Two potential sources of systematic variation in output from Mefar dosimeters, the system used in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) study have been evaluated: individual nebulizer characteristics and dosimeter driving pressure. Output variation from 366 new nebulizers produced in two batches for the second ECRHS were evaluated, using a solute tracer method, at a fixed driving pressure. The relationship between dosimeter driving pressure was then characterized and between-centre variation in dosimeter driving pressure was evaluated in an Internet-based survey. A systematic difference between nebulizers manufactured in the two batches was identified. Batch one had a mean+/-SD output of 7.0+/-0.8 mg x s(-1) and batch two, 6.3+/-0.7 mg x s(-1) (p<0.005). There was a wide range of driving pressures generated by Mefar dosimeters as set, ranging between 70-245 kPa, with most outside the quoted manufacturer's specification of 180+/-5%. Nebulizer output was confirmed as linearly related to dosimeter driving pressure (coefficient of determination (R2)=0.99, output=0.0377 x driving pressure-0.4151). The range in driving pressures observed was estimated as consistent with a variation of about one doubling in the provocative dose causing a 20% fall in forced expiratory volume in one second. Systematic variation has been identified that constitutes potentially significant confounders for between-centre comparisons of airway responsiveness in the European Community Respiratory Health Survey, with the dosimeter driving pressure representing the most serious issue. This work confirms the need for appropriate quality control of both nebulizer output and dosimeter driving pressure, in laboratories undertaking field measurements of airway responsiveness. In particular, appropriate data on driving pressures need to be collected and factored into between-centre comparisons. Comprehensive collection of such data to optimize quality control is practicable and has been instigated by the organizing committee for the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A study was undertaken to investigate quality of life in asthma, defined by differing criteria, to see which may be most appropriate in epidemiological studies. METHODS The 426 adults were participants in the follow up phase of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) in Melbourne. As part of the laboratory visit, participants completed the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire, a detailed respiratory questionnaire, and underwent lung function testing. RESULTS Both the physical component summary and the mental component summary scores were significantly worse in those with wheeze in the previous 12 months than in those without wheeze. Only the mental component summary score was significantly worse in those with current asthma than in those without. In contrast, in those with current asthma or bronchial hyperreactivity only, neither of the summary scales was significantly different between cases and controls. CONCLUSIONS Quality of life is severely impaired in individuals with wheeze in the previous 12 months while individuals with current asthma or bronchial hyperreactivity alone did not appear to have significantly reduced quality of life.
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Reported adverse food reactions overestimate true food allergy in the community. Eur J Clin Nutr 2002; 56:31-6. [PMID: 11840177 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2001] [Revised: 07/06/2001] [Accepted: 07/09/2001] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the extent to which perceived adverse food reactions were associated with IgE mediated food allergy, as defined by skin prick testing (SPT). DESIGN A cohort epidemiological study. Participants underwent SPT to five common food allergens (cow's milk, peanut mix, egg white, shrimp and whole grain wheat mix) and were asked whether they had ever suffered any food 'illness/trouble', and if so to list such food(s). A positive SPT was defined as wheal diameter of > or =3 mm. Cohen's kappa (kappa) was used to assess the agreement between SPT and self-reported reactions to food(s) which contained the allergen of interest. SETTING Randomly selected adults who took part in the follow-up of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) in 1998. SUBJECTS The subjects were 457 adults aged 26-50 y. RESULTS Fifty-eight (13%) adults were sensitised to at least one food allergen whilst 99 adults (22%) reported illness to food(s) nearly always. However, only seven subjects who reported illness to a food also had a positive SPT to the same food. The prevalence of adverse food reactions associated with IgE mediated allergy in the adult general population would be less than 1.5% (7/457). The agreement between SPT and self-reported illness to food(s) was poor for cow's milk (kappa=0) and wheat (kappa=0), slight for shrimp (kappa=0.16) and egg white (kappa=0.09) and fair for peanut mix (kappa=0.37). CONCLUSIONS There was little agreement between self-reported perceived illness to food(s) known to contain the food allergen of interest, and positive SPT, suggesting that most reactions are not due to IgE mediated food allergy.
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Long-term trends in occupational exposure. THE ANNALS OF OCCUPATIONAL HYGIENE 2001; 45:499-500. [PMID: 11550667 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-4878(01)00015-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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The rising prevalence of asthma in young Melbourne adults is associated with improvement in treatment. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2001; 87:117-23. [PMID: 11527242 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)62204-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma is a common source of morbidity and is now recognized as a national health priority in Australia. Although a number of epidemiologic studies have been conducted in Australia to determine the prevalence of asthma in adults, it is unclear whether the prevalence is changing. OBJECTIVES To determine the prevalence in 1998 of self-reported asthma and respiratory symptoms among young adults and changes in prevalence between 1990 and 1999. METHODS Cross-sectional postal survey to 4,455 young adults (aged 20 to 44 years) randomly selected from the electoral rolls of the inner southeastern suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne. The survey instrument was the validated European Community Respiratory Health Survey screening questionnaire, which gathered data on self-reported respiratory symptoms, including whether asthma had been diagnosed. Identically worded questions from similar surveys conducted in 1990, 1992, and 1999 were used to compare changes in prevalence. RESULTS A response rate of 72% was achieved in 1998 after three mailings and telephone followup. Forty-two percent reported nasal allergies, 26% wheezed within the past 12 months, and 20% ever had asthma. The prevalence of doctor-diagnosed asthma was 18%, whereas 10% reported using asthma medications within the past 12 months. Nine percent of respondents reported an asthma attack within the past 12 months. The prevalence of having ever had asthma, doctor-diagnosed asthma, and using asthma medications had increased significantly since 1990. However, the prevalence of respiratory symptoms did not significantly change over this time. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of asthma is likely to be rising, but the symptoms of asthma are being better managed in young Melbourne adults.
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Current indoor allergen levels of fungi and cats, but not house dust mites, influence allergy and asthma in adults with high dust mite exposure. Am J Respir Crit Care Med 2001; 164:65-71. [PMID: 11435240 DOI: 10.1164/ajrccm.164.1.9911066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We assessed the influence of current indoor levels of fungi, house dust mite allergen (Der p 1), and cat allergen (Fel d 1) on sensitization and asthma in adults. A total of 485 adults answered a questionnaire and had skin prick tests and lung function tests. Dust and air samples were collected from their bedrooms. The dust was analyzed for Der p 1, Fel d 1, and fungal biomass (ergosterol). Fungal propagules were measured in air samples. Current asthma was defined as having wheezed during the past 12 mo plus bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) to methacholine. High exposure to total airborne fungi was associated with increased BHR, but perhaps paradoxically with a lower risk of being sensitized to fungi. Ergosterol levels in floor dust were a risk factor both for being sensitized to fungi and having wheezed within the last year. High Fel d 1 levels in floor dust were found to increase the risk of being sensitized to cats and in beds to increase the risk of current asthma. Although Der p 1 levels in homes were high, people exposed to high Der p 1 levels in floor dust were less likely to be sensitized to house dust mites or to have wheezed within the past year. Current indoor levels of fungi and Fel d 1, but not Der p 1, influenced sensitization and asthma in adults with high dust mite exposure.
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International prevalences of reported food allergies and intolerances. Comparisons arising from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) 1991-1994. Eur J Clin Nutr 2001; 55:298-304. [PMID: 11360135 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2000] [Revised: 11/16/2000] [Accepted: 11/20/2000] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to report the prevalence, type and reported symptoms associated with food intolerance. DESIGN A cross-sectional epidemiological study involving 15 countries using standardized methodology. Participants answered a detailed interviewer-administered questionnaire and took part in blood, lung function and skin prick tests to common aeroallergens. SETTING Randomly selected adults who took part in the second phase of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS). SUBJECTS The subjects were 17280 adults aged 20-44 y. RESULTS Twelve percent of respondents reported food allergy/intolerance (range 4.6% in Spain to 19.1% in Australia). Atopic females who had wheezed in the past 12 months, ever had asthma or were currently taking oral asthma medications were significantly more likely to report food allergy/intolerance. Participants from Scandinavia or Germany were significantly more likely than those from Spain to report food allergy/intolerance. Respondents who reported breathlessness as a food-related symptom were more likely to have wheezed in the past 12 months, to have asthma, use oral asthma medications, be atopic, have bronchial hyperreactivity, be older and reside in Scandinavia. CONCLUSION Self-reported food allergy/intolerance differed significantly across multiple countries. The reasons for these differences were not explored in this study, but are likely to be largely due to cultural differences.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The effectiveness of screening for lung cancer with chest radiography, sputum cytology or spiral CT has not been established. OBJECTIVES To determine whether screening for lung cancer using regular sputum examinations or chest radiography or CT chest reduces lung cancer mortality. SEARCH STRATEGY Electronic databases, bibliographies, hand searching of a journal and discussion with experts were used to identify published and unpublished trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Controlled trials of screening for lung cancer using sputum examinations, chest radiography or CT chest. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Intention to screen analysis was performed. Where there was significant statistical heterogeneity relative risks were reported using the random effect model, but for other outcomes the fixed effect model was used. MAIN RESULTS Seven trials were included (6 randomised controlled studies and 1 non-randomised controlled trial) with a total of 245,610 subjects. There were no studies with an unscreened control group. Frequent screening with chest x-rays was associated with an 11% relative increase in mortality from lung cancer compared with less frequent screening (RR 1.11, CI: 1.00-1.23). A non statistically significant trend was observed to reduced mortality from lung cancer when screening with chest x-ray and sputum cytology was compared with chest x-ray alone (RR 0.88, CI:0.74-1.03). Several of the included studies had potential methodological weaknesses. There were no controlled studies of spiral CT. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS The current evidence does not support screening for lung cancer with chest radiography or sputum cytology. Frequent chest x-ray screening might be harmful. Further, methodologically rigorous trials are required.
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Management and treatment perceptions among young adults with asthma in Melbourne: the Australian experience from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey. Respirology 2000; 5:281-7. [PMID: 11022992 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1843.2000.00265.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As part of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) in 1992-1993 we assessed management practices and treatment perceptions among young asthmatic adults in Melbourne, Australia. METHODOLOGY We conducted a postal questionnaire survey of 4500 randomly selected adults (aged 20-44 years), drawn from three electoral districts, of whom 3200 (71%) subjects responded. A randomly selected sample of 1642 respondents, 'enriched' by a further 433 symptomatic subjects, was invited to complete a second phase respiratory questionnaire. RESULTS The questionnaire was completed by 757 subjects who underwent laboratory testing. A further 119 subjects who were unable to attend the laboratory completed an identical questionnaire by telephone interview (42% response rate). In the second phase, 16% of subjects reported 'current asthma' (group I) as defined by physician confirmation and a recent attack (within 1 year), 10% had confirmed asthma but reported no recent attack (group II) and 74% did not have asthma (group III). Inhaled corticosteroid use was significantly higher in group I than in group II subjects (45% vs 24%, P<0.01), but only 11% of asthmatic subjects overall reported daily prophylactic use. Regular treatment in any form was considered to be 'bad' by 65% of asthmatic subjects and only 43% took medication as prescribed all of the time. CONCLUSION Despite national education campaigns, the majority of young asthmatic adults in Melbourne did not adhere to prescribed treatment, but continued to rely upon beta2-agonists alone with neglect of regular inhaled corticosteroid which has probably contributed to Australia's continued high asthma morbidity and mortality rates.
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Comments in reply to the “Letter to the editor of Allergy: Indoor exposure to formaldehyde and risk of allergy.”. Allergy 2000. [DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2000.00598.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Employees in alumina refineries are known to be exposed to a number of potential respiratory irritants, particularly caustic mist and bauxite and alumina dusts. To examine the prevalence of work related respiratory symptoms and lung function in alumina refinery employees and relate these to their jobs. METHODS 2964 current employees of three alumina refineries in Western Australia were invited to participate in a cross sectional study, and 89% responded. Subjects were given a questionnaire on respiratory symptoms, smoking, and occupations with additional questions on temporal relations between respiratory symptoms and work. Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV(1)) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were measured with a rolling seal spirometer. Atopy was assessed with prick skin tests for common allergens. Associations between work and symptoms were assessed with Cox's regression to estimate prevalence ratios, and between work and lung function with linear regression. RESULTS Work related wheeze, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and rhinitis were reported by 5.0%, 3.5%, 2.5%, and 9.5% of participants respectively. After adjustment for age, smoking, and atopy, most groups of production employees reported a greater prevalence of work related symptoms than did office employees. After adjustment for age, smoking, height, and atopy, subjects reporting work related wheeze, chest tightness, and shortness of breath had significantly lower mean levels of FEV(1) (186, 162, and 272 ml respectively) than subjects without these symptoms. Prevalence of most work related symptoms was higher at refinery 2 than at the other two refineries, but subjects at this refinery had an adjusted mean FEV(1) >60 ml higher than the others. Significant differences in FVC and FEV(1)/FVC ratio, but not FEV(1), were found between different process groups. CONCLUSIONS There were significant differences in work related symptoms and lung function between process groups and refineries, but these were mostly not consistent. Undefined selection factors and underlying population differences may account for some of these findings but workplace exposures may also contribute. The differences identified between groups were unlikely to be clinically of note.
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A reliable and valid asthma general knowledge questionnaire useful in the training of asthma educators. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2000; 39:237-242. [PMID: 11040723 DOI: 10.1016/s0738-3991(99)00051-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Using the responses of 115 adults attending an asthma educator training course, the Asthma General Knowledge Questionnaire for Adults (AGKQA) was found to be an acceptably valid and reliable measure for assessing knowledge related to the management of asthma by adults. Content and face validity: expert assessors considered the AGKQA to be a relevant and plausible test of the asthma general knowledge content of the programme. Criterion-related validity: the pretraining scores of educators were significantly higher (P < 0.001) than those of adults with no experience of asthma; total scores for the AGKQA and an asthma knowledge questionnaire developed for parents of children with asthma correlated strongly, 0.72. Test-retest reproducibility: the Spearman rank correlation for the test-retest score was 0.72 (P < 0.02), kappas for concordance of item responses were moderate to very good for two thirds of the items. Internal consistency for the total scale was also acceptable, KR20 0.66.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Corticosteroids are currently used routinely in the management of acute severe asthma. The optimal dose and route of administration continues to be debated. Some investigators have reported a greater benefit of higher doses of corticosteroids in the management of severe asthma, while others have not. OBJECTIVES To determine whether higher doses of systemic corticosteroids (oral, intravenous or intramuscular) are more effective than lower doses in the management of patients with acute severe asthma requiring hospital admission. SEARCH STRATEGY Randomised controlled trials were identified from the Cochrane Airways Group Asthma Register. In addition, primary authors and content experts were contacted to identify eligible studies. Bibliographies from included studies, known reviews and texts were also searched. SELECTION CRITERIA Studies were selected for inclusion in the review if they met the following broad inclusion criteria: described as randomised controlled trials, included patients with acute severe asthma, compared different doses of corticosteroids (any route) in 2 or more treatment arms, and had a minimum period of follow up of 24 hours. Two reviewers independently assessed the studies for inclusion and disagreement was resolved by third party adjudication. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were extracted independently by two reviewers if the authors were unable to verify the validity of information. Missing data were obtained from authors or calculated from other data presented in the paper. The data were analysed as weighted mean differences (WMD) for primary pulmonary function outcomes using a fixed effects model. For the purposes of the review, three broad categories of corticosteroid dose (equivalent dose of methylprednisolone in 24 hours) were defined in advance: low dose (< or = 80 mg), medium dose (> 80 mg and < or = 360 mg) and high dose (> 360 mg). There were thus 3 main comparison groups: low versus medium dose, medium versus high dose and low versus high dose. MAIN RESULTS Nine trials were included; a total of 344 adult patients have been studied (96 with low dose, 85 with medium dose and 163 with high dose corticosteroids). Only 6 trials provided sufficient data for the meta-analysis. There were no clinically or statistically significant differences detected in % predicted FEV1 among comparison groups after 24, 48 or 72 hours. At 48 hours, the weighted mean difference was -3.3% predicted (95% confidence interval -12.4 to + 5.8) for the low vs medium dose comparison, -1. 9% predicted (95% CI -8.1 to + 4.3) for the medium vs high dose comparison and + 0.5% predicted (95% CI - 7.8 to + 8.8) for the low vs high dose comparison. There appeared to be no significant differences in side effects or rates of respiratory failure among the varying doses of corticosteroids. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS No differences were identified among the different doses of corticosteroids in acute asthma requiring hospital admission. Low dose corticosteroids (< or = 80 mg/day of methylprednisolone or < or = 400 mg/day of hydrocortisone) appear to be adequate in the initial management of these adult patients. Higher doses do not appear to offer a therapeutic advantage.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A key component of many asthma management guidelines is the recommendation for patient education and regular medical review. A number of controlled trials have been conducted to measure the effectiveness of asthma education programmes. These programmes improve patient knowledge, but their impact on health outcomes is less well established. This review was conducted to examine the strength of evidence supporting Step 6 of the Australian Asthma Management Plan: "Educate and Review Regularly"; to test whether health outcomes are influenced by education and self-management programmes. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to assess the effects of asthma self-management programmes, when coupled with regular health practitioner review, on health outcomes in adults with asthma. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Airways Group trials register and reference lists of articles. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised trials of self-management education in adults over 16 years of age with asthma. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Trial quality was assessed and data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Study authors were contacted for confirmation. MAIN RESULTS Twenty-five trials were included. Self-management education was compared with usual care in 22 studies. Self-management education reduced hospitalisations (odds ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.38 to 0.88); emergency room visits (odds ratio 0.71, 95% confidence interval (0.57 to 0.90); unscheduled visits to the doctor (odds ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.40 to 0.82); days off work or school (odds ratio 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.38 to 0. 79); and nocturnal asthma (odds ratio 0.53, 95% confidence interval 0.39 to 0.72). Measures of lung function were little changed. Self-management programmes that involved a written action plan showed a greater reduction in hospitalisation than those that did not (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.18 to 0.68). People who managed their asthma by self-adjustment of their medications using an individualised written plan had better lung function than those whose medications were adjusted by a doctor. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS Training in asthma self-management which involves self-monitoring by either peak expiratory flow or symptoms, coupled with regular medical review and a written action plan appears to improve health outcomes for adults with asthma. Training programmes which enable people to adjust their medication using a written action plan appear to be more effective than other forms of asthma self-management.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND A key component of many asthma management guidelines is the recommendation for patient education and regular medical review. A number of controlled trials have been conducted to measure the effectiveness of asthma education programmes. These programmes improve patient knowledge, but their impact on health outcomes is less well established. At its simplest level, education is limited to the transfer of information about asthma, its causes and its treatment. This review focused on the effects of limited asthma education. OBJECTIVES The objective of this review was to assess the effects of limited (i.e. information only) asthma education on health outcomes in adults with asthma. SEARCH STRATEGY We searched the Cochrane Airways Group trials register and reference lists of articles. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and controlled trials of individual asthma education involving information transfer only in adults over 16 years of age. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Trial quality was assessed and data were extracted independently by two reviewers. Study authors were contacted for missing information. MAIN RESULTS Eleven trials were included. They were of variable quality. Limited asthma education did not reduce hospitalisation for asthma (weighted mean difference -0.03 average hospitalisations per person per year, 95% confidence interval -0.09 to 0.03). There was no effect on doctor visits, lung function and medication use. The effects on asthma symptoms were variable. There was no reduction in days lost from normal activity, but perceived asthma symptoms did improve after limited asthma education (odds ratio 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.18 to 0.86). In one study, limited asthma education was associated with reduced emergency department visits (weighted mean difference -2.76 average visits per person per year, 95% confidence interval -4.34 to 1.18). REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS Use of limited asthma education as it has been practiced does not appear to improve health outcomes in adults with asthma. However the use of information in the emergency department may be effective, but this needs to be confirmed.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent epidemiological studies suggest that the adverse respiratory health effects caused by the inhalation of fungal propagules are substantial. Knowledge of the prevalence and environmental determinants of indoor fungal levels is essential in designing effective avoidance measures. AIM To investigate the prevalence of fungi and the influence of residential characteristics on levels of fungi within homes in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS Floor dust and air samples were collected from bedrooms in 485 houses over 1 year. The dust was analysed for ergosterol, a marker of cumulative fungal biomass exposure. Total and genera-specific fungal propagules were identified in air samples. Details of the relevant residential characteristics were documented using a questionnaire. Independent predictors (P < 0.05) of ergosterol and total fungal propagules were identified by multiple linear regression. RESULTS Fifty-five percent of the houses had viable fungal propagules exceeding 500 CFU/m3. Cladosporium and Penicillium were identified as the most prevalent and abundant fungal genera in indoor air. The median ergosterol level in bedroom floor was 3.8 microg/g of dust. Multivariate analysis showed that total fungal propagules in indoor air were lower in bedrooms with a ceiling fan, without visible mould, and those that were more frequently vacuumed, had a solid fuel fire, had windows closed at the time of the sampling or lacked pets. The presence of more than one cat had the greatest effect on total fungal propagules. Ergosterol levels were significantly lower in homes without old fitted carpets, visible mould or pets and those with frequent airing and regular use of an extractor fan in the kitchen. Old wall-to-wall carpets had the greatest effect on ergosterol. CONCLUSIONS High indoor fungal exposures were associated with infrequent ventilation or vacuuming, presence of pets, visible mould and old carpets.
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Abstract
Validated instruments are not available to assess the residential characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of an interviewer-administered home visit report. The validity of 48 items in the Home Visit Report was examined against: observations made by a researcher, measurements of relative humidity, cat allergen, and ergosterol, a biomaker of fungal exposure and a biochemical test. Test-retest reliability of 10 fixed residential characteristics was assessed comparing the responses obtained in the main study with the pilot study, Kappa, ANOVA and Wilcoxon Rank Sum tests were applied to assess the agreement and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Among 44 items examined for the validity against observations, there was a perfect or almost perfect agreement in 21 (kappa = 0.9-1) and substantial agreement (kappa = 0.6-0.8) in 19. Higher cat allergen levels were observed with cat ownership and cat being allowed indoors. Observed condensation was associated with relative humidity and observed mould was associated with ergosterol levels. The agreement on the type of carpet and the test was substantial (kappa = 0.6). Among 10 items examined for reliability, there was a perfect or almost perfect agreement in 9 (kappa = 0.9-1) and substantial agreement (kappa = 0.7) in one. In conclusion, the Home Visit Report validated in this study provides reliable and valid data.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Although patient education is a key step in the Australian Asthma Management Plan, its impact has not been assessed in a hospital outpatient asthma clinic. METHODS A controlled trial was undertaken in 125 adults with asthma recruited from the Alfred Hospital Asthma and Allergy Clinic and randomly allocated to an intervention (n = 64) or control (n = 61) group. Subjects in the intervention group attended three education sessions, each of 90 minutes duration, spread over three successive weeks. Asthma knowledge, quality of life, self-management skills, and attitudes and beliefs about asthma were assessed by questionnaires at baseline and after six months. The intervention group was also assessed immediately after the three education sessions. The control group was evaluated after six months of usual care. RESULTS Asthma knowledge improved significantly in the intervention group after three education sessions (p = 0.0001) and this was retained six months later (p = 0.03). The impact of asthma on quality of life decreased significantly immediately after intervention (p = 0.03) but this was not maintained six months later (p = 0.35). On the other hand, the intervention had little impact on self-management skills or attitudes and beliefs about asthma. However, the control group had also improved their knowledge, quality of life and self-management skills after six months of usual care. The difference in mean change in knowledge score at six months between the intervention and control groups was not significant (p = 0.51). CONCLUSIONS In contrast to some other studies, a limited asthma education programme in a hospital outpatient setting had a positive impact on patients' knowledge of asthma, but not on their quality of life, self-management skills, or attitudes and beliefs about asthma.
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Self-management education for adults with asthma improves health outcomes. West J Med 1999; 170:266. [PMID: 10409081 PMCID: PMC1305580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Respiratory symptoms are known to occur in some aluminum smelter employees working in the potroom department but little is known about the respiratory health of employees in other departments. METHODS This cross-sectional study examined the prevalence of work-related respiratory symptoms and levels of lung function in different departments of two aluminum smelters compared to administration employees. Multiple logistic regression was performed with each of four work-related symptoms as outcomes and multiple linear regressions were performed with FEV1 and FVC as outcomes. RESULTS There were 1,529 male participants in the two smelters representing a response rate of 89.6%. After adjusting for age and smoking, work-related respiratory symptoms were reported significantly more often among the ingot mill, anode, and potroom groups in Smelter A. In Smelter B, ingot employees were more likely to report work-related wheeze and potroom employees were more likely to report work-related rhinitis. Symptoms tended to increase with increasing time in the potrooms but were more likely to occur in new employees in the ingot mill and anode process groups. After adjusting for age, height, and smoking, there were no significant differences between the process groups for either FEV1 or FVC at Smelter A, and at Smelter B potroom employees had slightly greater FEV1 and FVC than the administration employees. CONCLUSIONS Work-related respiratory symptoms among aluminum smelter workers are not reported only by potroom employees but also by ingot mill and anode employees.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to house dust mite (HDM) allergens is an important risk factor for childhood asthma. Knowledge of environmental determinants of HDM allergen levels is essential before designing rational avoidance measures. AIM To investigate the effect of domestic characteristics on HDM allergen (Der p 1) levels in Melbourne homes. METHODS Dust was collected from bed and floor of the bedrooms in 485 houses over a period of one year. Dust was analysed for Der p 1 levels using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Temperature and relative humidity were measured at the visit. Details of residential characteristics were collected using a questionnaire. Statistically significant predictors of Der p 1 levels (P < 0.05) were identified using multiple linear regression. RESULTS High levels of Der p 1 were observed in the floors (geometric mean 17.2 microg/g fine dust) as well as in the beds (geometric mean 20.3 microg/g fine dust). Der p 1 levels in the floor dust were significantly lower in winter and spring. They were higher in houses built before 1980 and those with central heating, weather board walls, damp bedrooms or fitted old wool carpets. Der p 1 levels in bed dust were significantly higher in houses built before 1980, with wooden floors built on stumps, with high relative humidity, with visible mould in the room, in beds with an old mattress or in beds without a quilt. CONCLUSIONS We would encourage construction of homes without carpets, wooden floors on stumps or weather board walls.
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Reply. Eur Respir J 1999. [DOI: 10.1034/j.1399-3003.1999.13a43-1.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Abstract
The significance of nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) is a controversial issue in asthma. The natural history of BHR has not been investigated adequately although its importance as a cross-sectional risk factor for asthma is widely accepted. This paper investigates the risk factors for wheeze among people with BHR. Subjects were young adults who had participated in the second phase of the European Community Respiratory Health Survey in Melbourne, Australia. We compared the participants with wheeze and BHR (n=186) to those with asymptomatic BHR (n=66). Information was collected on sociodemographic factors, family history of asthma, and relevant environmental factors using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Atopy to a range of aeroallergens was examined by skin prick tests. Risk factors were examined by adjusting the odds ratios (OR) by a logistic regression to control for confounding effects. Parental asthma (OR=4.2), keeping pets during childhood (OR=3.3), allergy to house dust mite (OR=2.7), allergic rhinitis (OR=2.6), and having ever smoked (OR=2.4) were associated with an increased risk of wheeze, independent of the other factors examined. When allergic rhinitis was not included as an explanatory variable, being atopic to any of the allergens assessed was found to increase the risk of current wheeze (OR=4.8). Allergic rhinitis may represent an intermediate stage in the natural history of BHR. Avoidance of pets during childhood, not smoking, and taking steps to minimize dust exposure are likely to prevent the progression from asymptomatic BHR to asthma.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the relationship between air pollution and respiratory morbidity. DESIGN An ecological study of the daily hospital admissions abstracted for the 1988 calendar year. Air quality data, including nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and particulates, were obtained from the relevant authorities. SETTING Latrobe Valley, Victoria. SUBJECTS Hospital admissions for asthma and Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease. (COAD). RESULTS There were significant associations (r = 0.11 to 0.17) between airborne particles, nitrogen dioxide and respiratory morbidity. There was no significant relationship between any of the pollutants and asthma admissions. However, multi-variate analysis confirmed that NO2 and particulates were associated with admissions for COAD. CONCLUSION Respiratory morbidity appears to be affected even by the low air pollution levels in the Latrobe Valley.
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The effects of monosodium glutamate in adults with asthma who perceive themselves to be monosodium glutamate-intolerant. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1998; 101:762-71. [PMID: 9648703 DOI: 10.1016/s0091-6749(98)70305-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many previous clinical studies of food-induced asthma suffer from inadequate baseline or control data. A statistically valid, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, monosodium glutamate (MSG)-challenge protocol was developed for identifying early and late asthmatic reactions in an individual. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine whether MSG would induce bronchoconstriction in a group of adults with asthma who perceived that they were MSG sensitive. METHODS Twelve subjects (seven women, mean age 35.3 years) with clinically documented asthma and a perception of MSG-induced asthma were recruited. FEV1 and peak expiratory flow data were obtained for 3 whole control days, as well as time-matched data for 3 separate challenge days (1 gm MSG, 5 gm MSG, and 5 gm lactose [placebo]). Opaque capsule challenges were given as a single dose in the morning after an overnight fast. Subjects complied with an elimination diet throughout the study. Nonspecific bronchial hyperresponsiveness was measured at baseline, after the control days, and at the conclusion of the challenges. Venous blood samples were taken at baseline and on each challenge day to determine soluble inflammatory marker (eosinophil cationic protein and tryptase) activity. RESULTS No immediate or definite late asthmatic reactions occurred. One subject's FEV1 declined more than 15% on MSG challenge, but 95% confidence limits for the control-day spirometry showed that this decline was within her daily variation, hence the challenge was deemed to be negative. No significant changes in bronchial hyperresponsiveness or soluble inflammatory markers were found. CONCLUSIONS MSG-induced asthma was not demonstrated in this study. This study highlighted the importance of adequate baseline and control data and indicated that such a rigorous protocol for individual assessment is feasible.
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