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Supportive therapy during COVID-19: The proposed mechanism of short-chain fatty acids to prevent cytokine storm and multi-organ failure. Med Hypotheses 2021; 154:110661. [PMID: 34385045 PMCID: PMC8339546 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2021.110661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The world is currently facing the COVID-19 pandemic that is taking a heavy toll on several countries. While many infected patients have a good prognosis, in some cases the progression can be serious and even lead to death. The commonly seen complications are a cytokine storm and multi-organ failure that require intensive care. The mortality of critically ill patients depends on age, sex, immune state or co-morbidities. There is an urgent need to discover a biomarker to identify early on patients at risk of developing serious complications and to find an effective treatment that could prevent disease progression and critical states. Recent investigations have pointed to the possible contribution of intestinal dysbiosis to the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Herein, we hypothesize that butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid initially produced by the gut microbiota, could be administered as supportive therapy to prevent immune system activation and disease progression.
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Abstract
Postoperative femoral nerve palsy with nerve division is a potentially devastating complication with a poor prognosis, especially when there is a delay in diagnosis. We present a novel 'belt and braces' approach for managing this unusual injury, using a modification of a nerve transfer, which has only been previously reported in the literature three times to our knowledge.
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Standardised Training Program in Spinal Ultrasound for Epidural Insertion: Protocol-Driven versus Non—Protocol Driven Teaching Approach. Anaesth Intensive Care 2019; 42:460-6. [DOI: 10.1177/0310057x1404200406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Exhaled nitric oxide in the diagnosis of asthma in adults: a systematic review. Clin Exp Allergy 2017; 47:410-429. [PMID: 27906490 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify and synthesize evidence on the diagnostic accuracy of FE NO for asthma in adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS Systematic searches (nine key biomedical databases and trial registers) were carried out on November 2014. Records were included if they recruited patients with the symptoms of asthma; used a single set of inclusion criteria; measured FE NO50 in accordance with American Thoracic Society guidelines, 2005 (off-line excluded); reported/allowed calculation of true-positive, true-negative, false-positive and false-negative patients as classified against any reference standard. Study quality was assessed using QUADAS II. Meta-analysis was planned where clinical study heterogeneity allowed. Rule-in and rule-out uses of FE NO were considered. RESULTS A total of 4861 records were identified originally and 1312 in an update. Twenty-seven studies were included. Heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Results varied even within subgroups of studies. Cut-off values for the best sum of sensitivity and specificity varied from 12 to 55 p.p.b., but did not produce high accuracy. 100% sensitivity or 100% specificity was reported by some studies indicating potential use as a rule-in or rule-out strategy. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE FE NO50 had variable diagnostic accuracy even within subgroups of studies with similar characteristics. Diagnostic accuracy, optimal cut-off values and best position for FE NO50 within a pathway remain poorly evidenced.
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Community Leaders and Urban Housing Problems: Leadership Roles, Organizational Goals and Effectiveness in Seven New York City Community Planning Districts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/089976407500400107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Abstract
To what extent, and how, do social movement strategies change over time? Why are particular strategic options selected by social movement organizations? A wide range of theories bearing on these questions are used to analyze the birth and evolution of the rent strike as used within the tenant movement in New York City. The emergence and diffusion of six key groups of innovations over a 76-year period are examined. The analysis considers the origins of the strategy, the extent of change in it over time, how and why innovations occurred, and how and to what extent they were diffused through the multitude of organizations making up the movement. It also examines the extent, consistency of, and reasons for patterns in variations in the use of strategic forms among the constituent organizations of the movement, the impact of both housing and politics of the various innovations, and the ultimate institutionalization of the strategy.
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Abstract
The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for Central Nervous System (CNS) Cancers provide interdisciplinary recommendations for managing adult CNS cancers. Primary and metastatic brain tumors are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with varied outcomes and management strategies. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the NCCN CNS Cancers Panel's discussion and highlight notable changes in the 2015 update. This article outlines the data and provides insight into panel decisions regarding adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy treatment options for high-risk newly diagnosed low-grade gliomas and glioblastomas. Additionally, it describes the panel's assessment of new data and the ongoing debate regarding the use of alternating electric field therapy for high-grade gliomas.
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Impact of a targeted isolation strategy at intensive-care-unit-admission on intensive-care-unit-acquired infection related to multidrug-resistant bacteria: a prospective uncontrolled before-after study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2016; 22:888.e11-888.e18. [PMID: 27451941 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2016.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 07/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Isolation of patients with multidrug resistant (MDR) bacteria is recommended to reduce cross-transmission of these bacteria. However, isolation of critically ill patients has several negative side effects. Therefore, we hypothesized that a targeted isolation strategy, based on the presence of at least one risk factor for MDR bacteria, would be not inferior to a systematic isolation strategy at intensive-care unit (ICU) admission. This prospective before-after study was conducted in a mixed ICU, during two 12-month periods, separated by a 1-month 'wash-out' period. During the before period, isolation was systematically performed in all patients at admission. During the after period, isolation was only performed in patients with at least one risk factor for MDR bacteria at admission. During the two periods, routine screening for MDR bacteria was performed at ICU admission, and isolation prescription was modified after receipt of screening result. Primary outcome was the percentage of patients with ICU-acquired infection (ICUAI) related to MDR bacteria, measured from ICU admission until ICU discharge or day 28, whatever happens first. A total of 1221 patients were included. No significant difference was found in ICUAI related to MDR bacteria (85 of 585 (14.5%) vs. 84 of 636 (13.2%) patients, risk difference, -1.3%, 95% confidence interval [-5.2 to 2.6%]) between the two periods, confirming the non-inferiority hypothesis. Our results suggest that targeted isolation of patients at ICU admission is not inferior to systematic isolation, regarding the percentage of patients with ICUAI related to MDR bacteria. Further randomized controlled multicentre studies are needed to confirm our results.
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M9 Lung Health of OPiate Users (LHOp): A pilot study to assess the respiratory health of opiate misusers attending a community substance misuse clinic. Thorax 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2015-207770.436] [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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Simultaneous Sketching Aids the Haptic Identification of Raised Line Drawings. Perception 2015; 44:743-54. [PMID: 26541052 DOI: 10.1177/0301006615594695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Haptically identifying raised line drawings is difficult. We investigated whether a major component of this difficulty lies in acquiring, integrating, and maintaining shape information from touch. Wijntjes, van Lienen, Verstijnen, and Kappers reported that drawings which participants had failed to identify by touch alone could often subsequently be named if they were sketched. Thus, people sometimes needed to externalize haptically acquired information by making a sketch in order to be able to use it. We extended Wijntjes et al.'s task and found that sketching while touching improved drawing identification even more than sketching after touching, but only if people could see their sketches. Our results suggest that the slow, serial nature of information acquisition seriously hampers the haptic identification of raised line drawings relative to visually identifying line drawings. Simultaneous sketching may aid identification by reducing the burden on working memory and by helping to guide haptic exploration. This conclusion is consistent with the finding reported by Lawson and Bracken that 3-D objects are much easier to identify haptically than raised line drawings since, unlike for vision, simultaneously extracting global shape information is much easier haptically for 3-D stimuli than for line drawings.
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Central nervous system cancers, version 2.2014. Featured updates to the NCCN Guidelines. J Natl Compr Canc Netw 2015; 12:1517-23. [PMID: 25361798 DOI: 10.6004/jnccn.2014.0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The NCCN Guidelines for Central Nervous System Cancers provide multidisciplinary recommendations for the clinical management of patients with cancers of the central nervous system. These NCCN Guidelines Insights highlight recent updates regarding the management of metastatic brain tumors using radiation therapy. Use of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is no longer limited to patients with 3 or fewer lesions, because data suggest that total disease burden, rather than number of lesions, is predictive of survival benefits associated with the technique. SRS is increasingly becoming an integral part of management of patients with controlled, low-volume brain metastases.
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Effets des vasoconstricteurs sur la microcirculation. MEDECINE INTENSIVE REANIMATION 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s13546-015-1050-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Direct Health Care Costs Associated With Opioid-Induced Constipation. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2014; 17:A364-A365. [PMID: 27200757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2014.08.810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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Modelling Long-Term Changes In Opioid Induced Constipation (OIC). VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2014; 17:A565. [PMID: 27201872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2014.08.1877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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How Does Non-Malignant Opioid Induced Constipation (Oic) Impact Health State Utility? VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2014; 17:A369. [PMID: 27200784 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2014.08.833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
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Multi-centre analysis of incidental findings on low-resolution CT attenuation correction images. Br J Radiol 2014; 87:20130701. [PMID: 25135310 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20130701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review new incidental findings detected on low-resolution CT attenuation correction (CTAC) images acquired during single-photon emission CT (SPECT-CT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) and to determine whether the CTAC images had diagnostic value and warrant reporting. METHODS A multicentre study was performed in four UK nuclear medicine departments. CTAC images acquired as part of MPI performed using SPECT were evaluated to identify incidental findings. New findings considered to be clinically significant were evaluated further. Positive predictive value (PPV) was determined at the time of definitive diagnosis. RESULTS Of 1819 patients studied, 497 (27.3%) had a positive CTAC finding. 51 (2.8%) patients had findings that were clinically significant at the time of the CTAC report and had not been previously diagnosed. Only four (0.2%) of these were potentially detrimental to patient outcome. CONCLUSION One centre had a PPV of 0%, and the study suggests that these CTAC images should not be reported. Two centres with more modern equipment had low PPVs of 0% and 6%, respectively, and further research is suggested prior to drawing a conclusion. The centre with best quality CT had a PPV of 67%, and the study suggests that CTAC images from this equipment should be reported. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE This study is unique compared with previous studies that have reported only the potential to identify incidental findings on low-resolution CT images. This study both identifies and evaluates new clinically significant incidental findings, and it demonstrates that the benefit of reporting the CTAC images depends on the type of equipment used.
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Abstract
Primary and metastatic tumors of the central nervous system are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with varied outcomes and management strategies. Recently, improved survival observed in 2 randomized clinical trials established combined chemotherapy and radiation as the new standard for treating patients with pure or mixed anaplastic oligodendroglioma harboring the 1p/19q codeletion. For metastatic disease, increasing evidence supports the efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery in treating patients with multiple metastatic lesions but low overall tumor volume. These guidelines provide recommendations on the diagnosis and management of this group of diseases based on clinical evidence and panel consensus. This version includes expert advice on the management of low-grade infiltrative astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, anaplastic gliomas, glioblastomas, medulloblastomas, supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumors, and brain metastases. The full online version, available at NCCN. org, contains recommendations on additional subtypes.
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Practitioner compression force variability in mammography: a preliminary study. Br J Radiol 2013; 86:20110596. [PMID: 23385990 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20110596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This preliminary study determines whether the absolute amount of breast compression in mammography varies between and within practitioners. METHODS Ethics approval was granted. 488 clients met the inclusion criteria. Clients were imaged by 14 practitioners. Collated data included Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) density, breast volume, compression and practitioner code. RESULTS A highly significant difference in mean compression used by different practitioners (p<0.0001 for each BI-RADS density) was demonstrated. Practitioners applied compression in one of three ways using either low, intermediate or high compression force, with no significant difference in mean compression within each group (p=0.99, p=0.70, p=0.54, respectively). Six practitioners showed a significant correlation (p<0.05) between compression and BI-RADS grade, with a tendency to apply less compression with increasing BI-RADS density. When compression was analysed by breast volume there was a wide variation in compression for a given volume. The general trend was the application of higher compression to larger breast volumes by all three practitioner groups. CONCLUSION This study presents an insight into practitioner variation of compression application in mammography. Three groups of practitioners were identified: those who used low, intermediate and high compression across the BI-RADS density grades. There was wide variation in compression for any given breast volume, with trends of higher compression demonstrated for increasing breast volumes. Collation of further studies will facilitate a new perspective on the analysis of practitioner, client and equipment variables in mammography imaging. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE For the first time, it has been practically demonstrated that practitioners vary in the amount of compression applied to breast tissue during routine mammography.
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Identification of a Unique miRNA Signature in CD14+/CD16- Blood-Monocytes in ALS Subjects Identical to That Observed in SOD Mice (IN9-2.002). Neurology 2012. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.78.1_meetingabstracts.in9-2.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Identification of a Unique miRNA Signature in CD14+/CD16- Blood-Monocytes in ALS Subjects Identical to That Observed in SOD Mice (P05.167). Neurology 2012. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.78.1_meetingabstracts.p05.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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S118 Direct visualisation of collateral ventilation in COPD with hyperpolarised Gas MRI. Thorax 2011. [DOI: 10.1136/thoraxjnl-2011-201054b.118] [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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Failure to visualise the superior laryngeal nerve using ultrasound imaging. Anaesth Intensive Care 2011; 39:503; author reply 503. [PMID: 21675076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
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A brief questionnaire for assessing patient healthcare experiences in low-income settings. Int J Qual Health Care 2011; 23:258-68. [DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzr019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Rheumatoid arthritis - treatment: 180. Utility of Body Weight Classified Low-Dose Leflunomide in Japanese Rheumatoid Arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2011. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/ker031] [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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P3 COPD causation; an assessment of agreement between expert clinical raters. Thorax 2010. [DOI: 10.1136/thx.2010.150961.3] [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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George Trevor Nevin Lawson. BMJ : BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL 2010. [DOI: 10.1136/bmj.c4556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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The relationships of cartilaginous fishes: an immunological study of serum transferrins of holocephalans and elasmobranchs. J Zool (1987) 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-7998.1984.tb02334.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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A community-based long-term follow up of women undergoing obstetric fistula repair in rural Ethiopia. BJOG 2009; 116:1258-64. [PMID: 19459865 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2009.02200.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess urinary and reproductive health and quality of life following surgical repair of obstetric fistula. DESIGN Follow-up study. SETTING A newly established fistula clinic (2004) at Gimbie Adventist Hospital, a 71-bedded district general hospital in West Wollega Zone, in rural Western Ethiopia. POPULATION Thirty-eight women (86%) of 44 who had undergone fistula repair were identified in their community. METHODS Community-based structured interviews 14-28 months following fistula repair, using a customised questionnaire addressing urinary health, reproductive health and quality of life. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Urinary health at follow up was assessed as completely dry, stress or urge incontinence, or fistula. King's Health Questionnaire was modified and used for the quality-of-life assessment. RESULTS At follow up, 21 women (57%) were completely dry, 13 (35%) suffered from stress or urge incontinence and three (8%) had a persistent fistula. Surgery improved quality of life and facilitated social reintegration to a level comparable to that experienced before fistula development for both women who were dry and those with residual incontinence (P = 0.001). For women still suffering from fistula no change was seen (P = 0.1). Four women became pregnant following their surgery, among which there was one maternal death, three stillbirths and one re-occurrence of fistula. CONCLUSION Community-based, long-term follow up after fistula repair succeeded in Western rural Ethiopia. Despite one-third still suffering stress or urge incontinence, the women reported improved quality of life and social reintegration after fistula closure.
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Intensive care unit outcome versus haemodynamic status on arrival at a general intensive care unit. Crit Care 2007. [PMCID: PMC4095097 DOI: 10.1186/cc5203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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The correlation of the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score with intensive care unit outcome. Crit Care 2007. [PMCID: PMC4095515 DOI: 10.1186/cc5622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Phylogeny of the Colubroidea (Serpentes): New evidence from mitochondrial and nuclear genes. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2005; 37:581-601. [PMID: 16172004 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2005.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2005] [Revised: 07/22/2005] [Accepted: 07/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Colubroidea contains over 85% of all the extant species of snakes and is recognized as monophyletic based on morphological and molecular data. Using DNA sequences (cyt b, c-mos) from 100 species we inferred the phylogeny of colubroids with special reference to the largest family, the Colubridae. Tree inference was obtained using Bayesian, likelihood, and parsimony methods. All analyses produced five major groups, the Pareatidae, Viperidae, Homalopsidae, the Elapidae, and the Colubridae. The specific content of the latter two groups has been altered to accommodate evolutionary history and to yield a more stable taxonomy. We propose an updated classification based on the reallocation of species as indicated by our inferred phylogeny.
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Abstract
We demonstrate a novel mechanism for low power optical detection and modulation in a slotted waveguide geometry filled with nonlinear electro-optic polymers. The nanoscale confinement of the optical mode, combined with its close proximity to electrical contacts, enables the direct conversion of optical energy to electrical energy, without external bias, via optical rectification, and also enhances electro-optic modulation. We demonstrate this process for power levels in the sub-milliwatt regime, as compared to the kilowatt regime in which optical nonlinear effects are typically observed at short length scales. Our results suggest that a new class of detectors based on nonlinear optics may be practical.
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Molecular systematics of racers, whipsnakes and relatives (Reptilia: Colubridae) using mitochondrial and nuclear markers. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2004. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0469.2004.00249.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Poor response to ovulation induction is a stronger predictor of early menopause than elevated basal FSH: a life table analysis. Hum Reprod 2003; 18:527-33. [PMID: 12615819 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deg101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the course of assisted reproduction treatment, a number of women exhibit a "poor response" to ovulation induction, or demonstrate an elevated basal FSH level (> or =10 IU/l) at a young age. We sought to determine whether these women are at increased risk of early menopause and poor reproductive performance. METHODS A retrospective cohort study included 118 "poor responders" with normal basal FSH level (<10 IU/l), 164 women with raised basal FSH (> or =10 IU/l), and 265 controls, who underwent assisted reproduction treatment between 1987 and 1998. All women were < 40 years of age at the time of treatment and had normal menstrual cycles. Participants were sent a postal questionnaire in 2000-2001, seeking information on ovarian function and reproductive performance following cessation of treatment. RESULTS After adjusting for age and smoking habits, women with poor response and raised basal FSH levels were more likely to experience symptoms of the peri-menopause [hazard ratios 2.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.52-3.78, and 2.76, 95% CI 1.78-4.29 respectively, P = 0.0001]. Poor responders were six times and 23 times more likely to experience the menopause within 10 years of treatment than those with raised basal FSH levels and controls respectively (hazard ratio 5.97 and 23.9, P = 0.015 and 0.002 respectively). Poor responders and those with raised basal FSH levels have half the chance of spontaneous conception after discontinuation of treatment compared with controls (P < 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Both poor response to ovarian stimulation and raised basal FSH are markers of reduced ovarian reserve and predict an increased risk of early menopause.
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Screening for HIV, hepatitis B and C infection in a population seeking assisted reproduction in an inner London hospital. BJOG 2001; 108:654-6. [PMID: 11426904 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2001.00146.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority requires all sperm donors to be screened for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B and C and their semen quarantined for six months. No guidelines exist for screening prior to in vitro fertilisation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. We prospectively analysed the prevalence of these viruses in our patients. Screening detected one case of HIV (0.13%), four of hepatitis C (0.5%) and 14 new cases of hepatitis B (1.7%). The prevalence of hepatitis B and HIV in our antenatal population at this time was 1.4% and 0.8%, respectively. Knowledge allows measures to be taken to reduce the risk of transmission to partner, fetus, new born baby, or by cross-contamination during embryo cryostorage and enables couples to make an informed decision regarding proceeding with treatment. Detection of infection in one partner should no longer preclude fertility treatment.
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Screening for HIV, hepatitis B and C infection in a population seeking assisted reproduction in an inner London hospital. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0306-5456(00)00146-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Mitochondrial DNA phylogeography of the polytypic North American rat snake (Elaphe obsoleta): a critique of the subspecies concept. Evolution 2000; 54:2107-18. [PMID: 11209786 DOI: 10.1554/0014-3820(2000)054[2107:mdpotp]2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Subspecies have been considered artificial subdivisions of species, pattern classes, or incipient species. However, with more data and modern phylogenetic techniques, some subspecies may be found to represent true species. Mitochondrial DNA analysis of the polytypic snake, Elaphe obsoleta, yields well-supported clades that do not conform to any of the currently accepted subspecies. Complete nucleotide sequences of the cytochrome b gene and the mitochondrial control region produced robust maximum-parsimony and maximum-likelihood trees that do not differ statistically. Both trees were significantly shorter than a most parsimonious tree in which each subspecies was constrained to be monophyletic. Thus, the subspecies of E. obsoleta do not represent distinct genetic lineages. Instead, the evidence points to three well-supported mitochondrial DNA clades confined to particular geographic areas in the eastern United States. This research underscores the potential problems of recognizing subspecies based on one or a few characters.
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Prospective Controlled Study of the Effect of Uterine Fibroids on the Outcome of Assisted Conception Cycles. Fertil Steril 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(00)01031-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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The combined effects of plane disorientation and foreshortening on picture naming: one manipulation or two? J Exp Psychol Hum Percept Perform 2000. [PMID: 10811163 DOI: 10.1037//0096-1523.26.2.568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objects disoriented in plane away from the upright and objects rotated in depth producing foreshortening are harder to identify than canonical views. In Experiments 1 and 2, participants named pictures of familiar objects. There was no interaction between plane and depth rotation effects on initial presentation or after practice. Experiment 3 was a dual-task psychological refractory period study. Participants classified a high-low tone with a speeded keypress and then named a canonical, plane-rotated, or foreshortened view of an object. Naming was slower when the picture was presented 50 ms after the tone compared with 800 ms after the tone. Plane rotation effects were reduced (but not eliminated) at the short tone-picture stimulus onset asynchrony, but foreshortening effects were not reduced. The results implicate an early, prebottleneck locus for some processes compensating for plane rotation and a subsequent bottleneck or postbottleneck locus for compensation for foreshortening.
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The combined effects of plane disorientation and foreshortening on picture naming: one manipulation or two? J Exp Psychol Hum Percept Perform 2000; 26:568-81. [PMID: 10811163 DOI: 10.1037/0096-1523.26.2.568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objects disoriented in plane away from the upright and objects rotated in depth producing foreshortening are harder to identify than canonical views. In Experiments 1 and 2, participants named pictures of familiar objects. There was no interaction between plane and depth rotation effects on initial presentation or after practice. Experiment 3 was a dual-task psychological refractory period study. Participants classified a high-low tone with a speeded keypress and then named a canonical, plane-rotated, or foreshortened view of an object. Naming was slower when the picture was presented 50 ms after the tone compared with 800 ms after the tone. Plane rotation effects were reduced (but not eliminated) at the short tone-picture stimulus onset asynchrony, but foreshortening effects were not reduced. The results implicate an early, prebottleneck locus for some processes compensating for plane rotation and a subsequent bottleneck or postbottleneck locus for compensation for foreshortening.
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Prognosis of ivf cycles resulting in transfer of the only available single embryo. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(00)83153-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Prospective controlled study of the effect of uterine fibroids on the outcome of assisted conception treatment. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2000. [DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7292(00)81444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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