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Geerts L, Brink LT, Odendaal HJ. Selecting a birth weight standard for an indigenous population in a LMIC: A prospective comparative study. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38571441 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to compare birth weight (BW) distribution and proportion of BWs below or above specified percentiles in low-risk singleton pregnancies in healthy South African (SA) women of mixed ancestry with expected values according to four BW references and to determine the physiological factors affecting BW. METHODS This was an ancillary study of a prospective multinational cohort study, involving 7060 women recruited between August 2007 and January 2015 in two townships of Cape Town, characterized by low socioeconomic status, and high levels of drinking and smoking. Detailed information about maternal and pregnancy characteristics, including harmful exposures, was gathered prospectively, allowing us to select healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies without any known harmful exposures. In this cohort we compared the median BW and the proportion of BWs P90, 95 and 97 according to four reference standards (INTERGROWTH-21st, customized according to the method described by Mickolajczyk, Fetal Medicine Foundation and revised Fenton reference) with expected values. Appropriate parametric and nonparametric tests were used, and sensitivity analysis was performed for infant sex, first trimester bookings and women of normal body mass index (BMI). Multiple regression was used to explore effects of confounders. Written consent and ethics approval was obtained. RESULTS The cohort included 739 infants. The INTERGROWTH-21st standard was closest for the actual BW-distribution and categories. Below-expected BW was associated with boys, younger, shorter, leaner women, lower parity and gravidity. Actual BW was significantly influenced by maternal weight, BMI, parity and gestational age. CONCLUSION Of the four references assessed in this study, the INTERGROWTH-21st standard was closest for the actual BW distribution. Maternal variables significantly influence BW.
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Pistorius L, Cluver CA, Bhorat I, Geerts L. Trisomy 21 screening with αlpha software and the Fetal Medicine Foundation algorithm. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:27-34. [PMID: 38525638 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i11.885] [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: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Screening for trisomy 21 provides pregnant women with accurate risk information. Different algorithms are used to screen for trisomy 21 in South Africa (SA). The Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) provides software to screen for trisomy 21 in the first trimester by ultrasound or a combination of ultrasound and biochemistry (combined screening), and requires regular and stringent quality control. With αlpha software, first trimester combined screening and screening with biochemistry alone in the first or second trimester are possible. The αlpha screening requires quality control of biochemical tests, but not of ultrasound measurements. Ideally, a screening test should have a high detection and a low screen positive rate. Despite the availability of these screening programmes, only a minority of infants with trisomy 21 are detected prenatally, raising questions about the effectiveness of screening. OBJECTIVES To determine the screen positive and detection rates of prenatal screening for trisomy 21 in the SA private healthcare system. METHODS Data from the three largest laboratories collected between 2010 and 2015 were linked with genetic tests to assess screen positive and detection rates. Biochemical screening alone with αlpha software (first or second trimester) and combined screening using either FMF or αlpha software were compared. RESULTS One-third of an estimated 675 000 pregnancies in private practice in the 6-year study period underwent screening. There were 687 cases of trisomy 21 in 225 021 pregnancies, with only 239 (35%) diagnosed prenatally. The screen positive rates were 11.8% for first trimester biochemistry, 7.6% for second trimester biochemistry, 7.3% for first trimester FMF software ultrasound alone, 3.7% for combined first trimester screening with FMF software, and 3.5% for combined first trimester screening with αlpha software. The detection rates for a 5% false positive rate were 63% for first trimester biochemistry, 69% for second trimester biochemistry, 95% for combined first trimester screening with FMF software and 80% for combined first trimester screening with αlpha software. Detection and confirmation rates were highest with FMF software. CONCLUSION Screening with FMF software has a similar screen positive rate and better detection rate than screening with αlpha software. The low prenatal detection rate of trisomy 21 is mainly due to a low prevalence of screening. More research is needed in the SA setting to explore why screening and confirmatory testing after high-risk results are not performed in many pregnancies.
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Cluver CA, Bergman L, Bergkvist J, Imberg H, Geerts L, Hall DR, Mol BW, Tong S, Walker SP. Impact of fetal growth restriction on pregnancy outcome in women undergoing expectant management for preterm pre-eclampsia. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2023; 62:660-667. [PMID: 37289938 PMCID: PMC10947051 DOI: 10.1002/uog.26282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess whether coexisting fetal growth restriction (FGR) influences pregnancy latency among women with preterm pre-eclampsia undergoing expectant management. Secondary outcomes assessed were indication for delivery, mode of delivery and rate of serious adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of the Pre-eclampsia Intervention (PIE) and the Pre-eclampsia Intervention 2 (PI2) trial data. These randomized controlled trials evaluated whether esomeprazole and metformin could prolong gestation of women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia between 26 and 32 weeks of gestation undergoing expectant management. Delivery indications were deteriorating maternal or fetal status, or reaching 34 weeks' gestation. FGR (defined by Delphi consensus) at the time of pre-eclampsia diagnosis was examined as a predictor of outcome. Only placebo data from PI2 were included, as the trial showed that metformin use was associated with prolonged gestation. All outcome data were collected prospectively from diagnosis of pre-eclampsia to 6 weeks after the expected due date. RESULTS Of the 202 women included, 92 (45.5%) had FGR at the time of pre-eclampsia diagnosis. Median pregnancy latency was 6.8 days in the FGR group and 15.3 days in the control group (difference 8.5 days; adjusted 0.49-fold change (95% CI, 0.33-0.74); P < 0.001). FGR pregnancies were less likely to reach 34 weeks' gestation (12.0% vs 30.9%; adjusted relative risk (aRR), 0.44 (95% CI, 0.23-0.83)) and more likely to be delivered for suspected fetal compromise (64.1% vs 36.4%; aRR, 1.84 (95% CI, 1.36-2.47)). More women with FGR underwent a prelabor emergency Cesarean section (66.3% vs 43.6%; aRR, 1.56 (95% CI, 1.20-2.03)) and were less likely to have a successful induction of labor (4.3% vs 14.5%; aRR, 0.32 (95% CI, 0.10-1.00)), compared to those without FGR. The rate of maternal complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. FGR was associated with a higher rate of infant death (14.1% vs 4.5%; aRR, 3.26 (95% CI, 1.08-9.81)) and need for intubation and mechanical ventilation (15.2% vs 5.5%; aRR, 2.97 (95% CI, 1.11-7.90)). CONCLUSION FGR is commonly present in women with early preterm pre-eclampsia and outcome is poorer. FGR is associated with shorter pregnancy latency, more emergency Cesarean deliveries, fewer successful inductions and increased rates of neonatal morbidity and mortality. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Odendaal H, Geerts L, Wright C, Roberts DJ, Schubert P, Boyd TK, Brink L, Nel D. Association of Placental Histology with the Pulsatility Index of Fetal and Uteroplacental Vessels during Pregnancy and with Birthweight Z-Score. MEDICAL RESEARCH ARCHIVES 2023; 11:10.18103/mra.v11i8.4238. [PMID: 37712063 PMCID: PMC10501112 DOI: 10.18103/mra.v11i8.4238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Aims To compare macro- and microscopic features of the placenta with the pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine (UtA), umbilical (UA) and middle cerebral arteries at 20-24- and 34-38-weeks' gestation, and with birthweight z-scores (BWZS). Methods Recruitment for the Safe Passage Study, which investigated the association of alcohol and tobacco use with stillbirth and sudden infant death syndrome, occurred from August 2007 to January 2015 at community clinics in Cape Town, South Africa. The population represents a predominantly homogenous population of pregnant women from a low socioeconomic residential area. This study is a further analysis of the data of the Safe Passage Study. It consists of 1205 singleton pregnancies for which placental histology was available, of whom 1035 had a known BWZS and 1022 and 979 had fetoplacental Doppler examinations performed at Tygerberg Academic Hospital at 20-24 and 34-38 weeks respectively. Features of the placenta were assessed according to international norms. Results Significantly higher ORs for the presence of individual and combined features of maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) were found with lower BWZS and higher UtA PI values, more consistently than with higher UA PI values. Strongest associations were for a small placenta for gestational age (UtA OR 4.86 at 20-24 and 5.92 at 34-38 weeks; UA OR 5.33 at 20-24 and 27.01 at 34-38 weeks; low BWZS OR 0.31), for accelerated maturation (UtA OR 11.68 at 20-24 weeks and 18.46 at 34-38 weeks; low BWZS 0.61), for macroscopic infarction (UtA OR 6.08 at 20-24 weeks; UA OR 17.02 at 34-38 weeks; low BWZS OR 0.62) and for microscopic infarction (UtA OR 6.84 at 20-24 and 10.9 at 34-38 weeks; low BWZS OR 0.62). Conclusion There is considerable variability in the associations between individual features of MVM and increased UtA or UA PI and low BWZS. Although all MVM features currently carry equal weight in defining the condition of MVM, our data suggest that some should carry more weight than others. Macroscopic examination of the placenta may be helpful in identifying placental insufficiency as a small placenta for gestational age and macroscopic infarction were the features most strongly associated with outcomes.
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Goussard P, van der Westhuizen S, Venkatakrishna S, Andronikou S, van Wyk L, Rhode D, Gie A, Janson J, Schubert P, Geerts L, Budhram S. Foregut duplication cyst presenting at birth with airway compression. Pediatr Pulmonol 2023; 58:1828-1831. [PMID: 37014145 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
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Kazileviciute J, Geerts L, Abdulla K, Raja S, Marczin N. DYNAMIC CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW CHANGES ASSOCIATED WITH OFF PUMP CORONARY ARTERY BYPASS GRAFTING (OPCAB) ASSESSED BY A NOVEL, ROBOTIC ASSISTED, AUTONOMOUS, CONTINUOUS AND BILATERAL TRANSCRANIAL DOPPLER (TCD). J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2022. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2022.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
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Geerts L, Meyer R, Nolan H, Nel L, Nel DG, Brink L, Odendaal H. Reference standards for facial measurements in early third trimester South African fetuses, and the effect of maternal and fetal characteristics. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 35:8434-8442. [PMID: 35042446 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2021.1977794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a major problem worldwide and dysmorphic facial features may be a prenatal biomarker for FASD. Deviations from normal facial development cannot be explored before establishing the normal variation in a specific population, since ethnic differences may exist.Objectives: Main objective: to establish reference standards for 23 facial measurements on 3D ultrasound volumes obtained between days 196 and 224 of gestation in healthy unexposed South African fetuses from an area with historically high alcohol consumption prevalence and a population group with no existing normative values. Secondary objective: to assess the confounding effect of maternal and fetal characteristics.Design: This study involves 97 women (including 43 smokers) who had been enrolled in the Safe Passage Study (SPS), a large prospective multinational cohort study assessing the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure. They had adequate 3 D ultrasound volumes of the fetal face acquired at 28+0-31+6 weeks in singleton pregnancies without comorbidities, congenital abnormalities or exposure to alcohol, marijuana, or methamphetamines from 4 weeks before conception.Participants, materials, setting, methods: The participants were recruited from two residential areas of low socioeconomic status in Cape Town. Meticulous information was collected on maternal and pregnancy characteristics, including alcohol use at different time points. Gestational age (GA) was based on ultrasound biometry before 24 weeks, and 3D ultrasound volumes were acquired trans-abdominally from a sagittal and axial plane of the fetal face. Volumes were independently assessed offline by two observers and the image with the best landmark definition was used for 23 facial measurements, representing features previously described in children with FASD. The relation to the exact GA was assessed by regression analysis, the expected mean value and standard error of the estimate (SEE) was determined to transform all raw measurements into z-scores, and the effect of possible confounders on z-scores was assessed by ANOVA.Results: Ten variables changed significantly with advancing GA (extraocular diameter, anteroposterior, medio-lateral and supero-inferior ocular diameter, ocular volume, interlens distance, prenasal thickness, nasal bone length, nose length and nose protrusion) and thirteen did not (interocular distance; interocular: extraocular diameter ratio, prenasal thickness: nasal bone length ratio, pronasal-subnasal distance, subnasal-mouth distance, philtrum length, upper vermillion thickness, nose-philtrum angle, maxillary angle, facial height, facial protrusion, frontomaxillary facial angle and maxilla-nasion-mandible angle). Reference values (expected mean and SEE) for the 23 measurements were established for each day.The z-scores of all facial measurements were not independently affected by maternal age, parity, gravidity, smoking or body mass index, but infant sex and birthweight z-score significantly influenced several z-scores (infant sex for extraocular, medio-lateral, and supero-inferior ocular diameter, ocular volume, prenasal thickness and nose protrusion; birthweight z-score for extraocular diameter, interocular and interlens distance, nose protrusion and maxillary angle).Limitations: GA was not always confirmed by first trimester ultrasound and some measurements could not be obtained in all cases due to suboptimal image quality. The cohort included few heavy smokers so an effect of heavy or continued smoking cannot be ruled out, and the effect of ethnicity was not assessed.Conclusions: These are the first local reference standards for fetal facial measurements and, to our knowledge, the first reference standards for the supero-inferior ocular diameter, face protrusion, upper vermillion thickness, maxillary angle, and nose-philtrum angle. They were broadly in keeping with published references, with small discrepancies explained by minor differences in technique. Even in this narrow GA window, the distribution of many variables changed over time and normal variation was significantly influenced by fetal sex and birthweight z-score. The possible confounding effect of these factors needs to be considered when assessing the impact of harmful exposures like alcohol on facial development.
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Verstraelen S, Van Rompay A, Jacobs A, Hollanders K, Boonen F, Geukens G, Frijns E, Geerts L, Weltens R. Hazard assessment for a Ti-based nano-additived material: from core-shell production to final part. Toxicol Lett 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2018.06.916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Breetveld NM, Ghossein-Doha C, van Neer J, Sengers MJJM, Geerts L, van Kuijk SMJ, van Dijk AP, van der Vlugt MJ, Heidema WM, Brunner-La Rocca HP, Scholten RR, Spaanderman MEA. Decreased endothelial function and increased subclinical heart failure in women several years after pre-eclampsia. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2018; 52:196-204. [PMID: 28557250 DOI: 10.1002/uog.17534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pre-eclampsia (PE) is associated with both postpartum endothelial dysfunction and asymptomatic structural heart alterations consistent with heart failure Stage B (HF-B). In this study, we assessed the relationship between endothelial function, measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and HF-B in women with a history of PE. METHODS This was an observational study in which 67 formerly pre-eclamptic women (≥ 4 years postpartum) and 37 healthy parous controls were assessed ultrasonographically for cardiac function and geometry, as well as for endothelial function by means of brachial artery FMD. HF-B was diagnosed as left ventricular hypertrophy (left ventricular mass index (LVMi) > 95 g/m2 ), concentric remodeling (relative wall thickness > 0.42 and LVMi ≤ 95 g/m2 ), mild systolic dysfunction (left ventricular ejection fraction > 40% and < 55%) or asymptomatic valvular disease. Cardiovascular and metabolic syndrome variables were compared between women with history of PE and controls, as well as between those in the formerly pre-eclamptic group who had HF Stage A, HF-B or no HF. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the associations of FMD with PE, metabolic syndrome risk factors and obstetric parameters. RESULTS The prevalence of HF-B amongst formerly pre-eclamptic women was three-fold higher than that observed for controls (25% vs 8%, P < 0.05), while FMD was lower in formerly pre-eclamptic women compared with controls (6.12% vs 8.22%, P < 0.01); history of PE remained associated independently with lower FMD after adjusting for metabolic syndrome risk factors and obstetric parameters (β, -1.88; 95% CI, -3.59 to -0.18). However, HF-B did not relate to low FMD in formerly pre-eclamptic women. CONCLUSIONS Years after pregnancy, formerly pre- eclamptic women have lower FMD and have HF-B more often compared with healthy parous controls. Nonetheless, HF-B was not related to reduced FMD. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Odendaal HJ, Geerts L, Nel DG, Brink LT, Hitchcock E, Groenewald CA. Effects of alcohol, cigarettes, methamphetamine and marijuana exposure during pregnancy on maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels at 20-24 weeks'gestation. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS & NEONATAL CARE 2018; 8:00314. [PMID: 31106259 PMCID: PMC6519948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the effects of cigarette, marihuana and methamphetamine smoking and consumption of alcohol during pregnancy on maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) levels at 20-24 weeks. STUDY DESIGN In the Safe Passage Study (SPS) more than 12,000 pregnant women were prospectively followed up during pregnancy and until the infant was one year old to examine the effects of exposure to alcohol during pregnancy on stillbirth and sudden infant death syndrome. The present study is a cross-sectional secondary analysis of MSAFP analyses done at 20-24 weeks gestation in 1,679 SPS participants, recruited at the Bishop Lavis Community Health Centre, Cape Town, South Arica. RESULTS Low or moderate alcohol consumption with or without smoking, nor methamphetamine or marihuana use affected mean MSAFP levels. High MSAFP levels were associated with high alcohol consumption, young age, low body mass index (BMI) (<18 kg/m2) or small mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) (<230mm). High MSAFP levels were associated with stillbirth, preterm birth, abruption and a birth weight z-score of less than -1. CONCLUSION The study confirms the association between high MSAFP levels and adverse pregnancy outcomes but, although exposure to smoking or drinking is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including stillbirth, MSAFP levels were not affected by any of these exposures except for continued high consumption of alcohol. The observed association between higher MSAFP levels and maternal nutritional status (as demonstrated by the lower MUAC and BMI) could explain some of the correlations of poor socioeconomic conditions with higher stillbirth rates effect.
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De Haas S, Ghossein-Doha C, Geerts L, van Kuijk SMJ, van Drongelen J, Spaanderman MEA. Cardiac remodeling in normotensive pregnancy and in pregnancy complicated by hypertension: systematic review and meta-analysis. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2017; 50:683-696. [PMID: 28078751 DOI: 10.1002/uog.17410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to describe comprehensively the pattern of cardiac remodeling during normotensive human singleton pregnancy and to compare it with that of pregnancy complicated by hypertension. METHODS We performed a meta-analysis of the current literature on cardiac remodeling during normotensive and complicated pregnancies. Literature was retrieved from PubMed (NCBI) and EMBASE (Ovid) databases. Included studies needed to report a reference measurement (matched non-pregnant control group, prepregnancy or postpartum) and measurements made during predetermined gestational-age intervals. Mean differences between reference and pregnancy data were calculated using the random-effects model described by DerSimonian and Laird. RESULTS Forty-eight studies were included in the meta-analysis, with publication dates ranging from 1977 to 2016. During normotensive pregnancy, most geometric indices started to increase in the second trimester. Left ventricular mass (LVM) increased by 28.36 (95% CI, 19.73-37.00) g (24%), and relative wall thickness (RWT) increased by 0.03 (95% CI, 0.02-0.05) (10%) compared with those in the reference group. During hypertensive pregnancy, LVM and RWT increased more than during normotensive pregnancy (92 (95% CI, 75.46-108.54) g (95%) and 0.14 (95% CI, 0.09-0.19) (56%), respectively). CONCLUSIONS During normotensive pregnancy, most cardiac geometric indices change from the second trimester onwards. Both LVM and RWT increase, by 20% and 10%, respectively, consistent with concentric rather than eccentric remodeling. Cardiac adaptation in hypertensive pregnancy deviates from that in healthy pregnancy by a greater change in LVM (95% increase from reference) and RWT (56% increase from reference). Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Geerts L, Adriaens E, Alépée N, Guest R, Willoughby JA, Kandarova H, Drzewiecka A, Fochtman P, Verstraelen S, Van Rompay AR. CON4EI: Evaluation of QSAR models for hazard identification and labelling of eye irritating chemicals. Toxicol In Vitro 2017; 49:90-98. [PMID: 28941583 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Assessment of ocular irritation is a regulatory requirement in safety evaluation of industrial and consumer products. Although a number of in vitro ocular irritation assays exist, none are capable of fully categorizing chemicals as stand-alone assays. Therefore, the CEFIC-LRI-AIMT6-VITO CON4EI (CONsortium for in vitro Eye Irritation testing strategy) project was developed to assess the reliability of eight in vitro test methods and computational models as well as establishing an optimal tiered-testing strategy. For three computational models (Toxtree, and Case Ultra EYE_DRAIZE and EYE_IRR) performance parameters were calculated. Coverage ranged from 15 to 58%. Coverage was 2 to 3.4 times higher for liquids than for solids. The lowest number of false positives (5%) was reached with EYE_IRR; this model however also gave a high number of false negatives (46%). The lowest number of false negatives (25%) was seen with Toxtree; for liquids Toxtree predicted the lowest number of false negatives (11%), for solids EYE_DRAIZE did (17%). It can be concluded that the training sets should be enlarged with high quality data. The tested models are not yet sufficiently powerful for stand-alone evaluations, but that they can surely become of value in an integrated weight-of-evidence approach in hazard assessment.
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Choi KW, Sikkema KJ, Vythilingum B, Geerts L, Faure SC, Watt MH, Roos A, Stein DJ. Maternal childhood trauma, postpartum depression, and infant outcomes: Avoidant affective processing as a potential mechanism. J Affect Disord 2017; 211:107-115. [PMID: 28110156 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 01/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who have experienced childhood trauma may be at risk for postpartum depression, increasing the likelihood of negative outcomes among their children. Predictive pathways from maternal childhood trauma to child outcomes, as mediated by postpartum depression, require investigation. METHODS A longitudinal sample of South African women (N=150) was followed through pregnancy and postpartum. Measures included maternal trauma history reported during pregnancy; postpartum depression through six months; and maternal-infant bonding, infant development, and infant physical growth at one year. Structural equation models tested postpartum depression as a mediator between maternal experiences of childhood trauma and children's outcomes. A subset of women (N=33) also participated in a lab-based emotional Stroop paradigm, and their responses to fearful stimuli at six weeks were explored as a potential mechanism linking maternal childhood trauma, postpartum depression, and child outcomes. RESULTS Women with childhood trauma experienced greater depressive symptoms through six months postpartum, which then predicted negative child outcomes at one year. Mediating effects of postpartum depression were significant, and persisted for maternal-infant bonding and infant growth after controlling for covariates and antenatal distress. Maternal avoidance of fearful stimuli emerged as a potential affective mechanism. LIMITATIONS Limitations included modest sample size, self-report measures, and unmeasured potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest a mediating role of postpartum depression in the intergenerational transmission of negative outcomes. Perinatal interventions that address maternal trauma histories and depression, as well as underlying affective mechanisms, may help interrupt cycles of disadvantage, particularly in high-trauma settings such as South Africa.
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Geerts L, Van der Merwe E, Theron A, Rademan K. Placental insufficiency among high-risk pregnancies with a normal umbilical artery resistance index after 32 weeks. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2016; 135:38-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2016.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Roos A, Geerts L, Koen N, Faure SC, Vythilingum B, Stein DJ. Psychosocial predictors of fetoplacental blood flow during pregnancy. Compr Psychiatry 2015; 57:125-31. [PMID: 25481236 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2014.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although a number of studies have found significant associations between maternal psychological distress, anxiety and changes in fetoplacental blood flow, findings remain inconsistent. A recent pilot study by our group highlighted some of these inconsistencies. In the current study, we expanded this pilot analysis to include psychological distress, anxiety and a range of antenatal variables, with the aim of identifying predictors of fetoplacental blood flow. METHODS Healthy pregnant women (n=148) underwent Doppler flow studies on uterine, umbilical and fetal arteries; as well as assessments of distress, anxiety and other antenatal variables (e.g. perceived social support, resilience, nicotine and alcohol use) in each trimester. RESULTS Stepwise regression analyses found that state anxiety was associated with lower mid-cerebral artery pulsatility index at trimester 3. LIMITATIONS Subjects were recruited from selected midwife obstetric units in the same health district, so the generalizability of our results may be limited. While most subjects received Doppler assessment at trimesters 2 and 3, only approximately half of our sample was assessed at trimester 1. CONCLUSION The finding that anxiety is associated with increased blood flow to the fetal brain during trimester 3 of pregnancy, coincide with previous work. The findings emphasize a growing appreciation of the potential importance of psychological well-being during pregnancy for infant development. However, as associations were small and variable, further research using multivariate models to determine the precise mechanisms underlying these associations would be warranted.
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Cluver C, Meyer R, Odendaal H, Geerts L. Congenital rubella with agenesis of the inferior cerebellar vermis and total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2013; 42:235-237. [PMID: 23303616 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Congenital rubella infection has been associated with a number of abnormalities including cardiac, central nervous system and placental complications. We present a case with multiple fetal abnormalities detected on prenatal ultrasound, and confirmed postnatally, that included a single umbilical artery, severe tricuspid regurgitation, micrognathia and agenesis of the inferior cerebellar vermis. Postnatal echocardiography additionally revealed unobstructed total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (TAPVD) into the coronary sinus. Placental examination showed signs of placentitis, and polymerase chain reaction on neonatal serum was positive for rubella. Following a multidisciplinary team review, it was decided to provide only supportive care, and the infant died at 6 months of age owing to a respiratory tract infection. To our knowledge, TAPVD and agenesis of the inferior cerebellar vermis have not been reported previously in association with congenital rubella infection. This case illustrates how congenital infection may present in atypical ways and stresses the importance of considering congenital infection in the differential diagnosis of fetal anomalies when multiple features are present.
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Kanlaya R, Sintiprungrat K, Thongboonkerd V, Torremade N, Bindels R, Hoenderop J, Fernandez E, Dusso A, Valdivielso JM, Krueger T, Boor P, Schafer C, Westenfeld R, Brandenburg V, Schlieper G, Jahnen-Dechent W, Ketteler M, Jee W, Li X, Richards B, Floege J, Goncalves JG, Canale D, de Braganca AC, Shimizu MHM, Moyses RMA, Andrade L, Seguro AC, Volpini RA, Romoli S, Migliorini A, Anders HJ, Eskova O, Neprintseva N, Tchebotareva N, Bobkova I, Kozlovskaya L, Simic I, Tabatabaeifar M, Wlodkowski T, Denc H, Mollet G, Antignac C, Schaefer F, Ekaterina IA, Giardino L, Rastaldi MP, Van den Heuvel L, Levtchenko E, Okina C, Okamoto T, Kamata M, Murano J, Kobayashi K, Takeuchi K, Kamata F, Sakai T, Naito S, Aoyama T, Sano T, Takeuchi Y, Kamata K, Thomasova D, Bruns HA, Liapis H, Anders HJ, Iwashita T, Hasegawa H, Takayanagi K, Shimizu T, Asakura J, Okazaki S, Kogure Y, Hatano M, Hara H, Inamura M, Iwanaga M, Mitani T, Mitarai T, Savin VJ, Sharma M, Wei C, Reiser J, McCarthy ET, Sharma R, Gauchat JF, Eneman B, Freson K, Van den Heuvel L, Van Geet C, Levtchenko E, Choi DE, Jeong JY, Chang YK, Na KR, Lee KW, Shin YT, Ni HF, Chen JF, Zhang MH, Pan MM, Liu BC, Lee KW, Jeong JY, Choi DE, Chang YK, Kim SS, Na KR, Shin YT, Suzuki T, Iyoda M, Matsumoto K, Shindo-Hirai Y, Kuno Y, Wada Y, Yamamoto Y, Shibata T, Akizawa T, Munoz-Felix JM, Lopez-Novoa JM, Martinez-Salgado C, Ehling J, Babickova J, Gremse F, Kiessling F, Floege J, Lammers T, Boor P, Lech M, Gunthner R, Lorenz G, Ryu M, Grobmayr R, Susanti H, Kobayashi KS, Flavell RA, Anders HJ, Rayego-Mateos S, Morgado J, Sanz AB, Eguchi S, Pato J, Keri G, Egido J, Ortiz A, Ruiz-Ortega M, Leduc M, Geerts L, Grouix B, Sarra-Bournet F, Felton A, Gervais L, Abbott S, Duceppe JS, Zacharie B, Penney C, Laurin P, Gagnon L, Detsika MG, Duann P, Lianos EA, Leong KI, Chiang CK, Yang CC, Wu CT, Chen LP, Hung KY, Liu SH, Carvalho FF, Teixeira VP, Almeida WS, Schor N, Small DM, Bennett NC, Coombes J, Johnson DW, Gobe GC, Montero N, Prada A, Riera M, Orfila M, Pascual J, Rodriguez E, Barrios C, Kokeny G, Fazekas K, Rosivall L, Mozes MM, Munoz-Felix JM, Lopez-Novoa JM, Martinez-Salgado C, Hornigold N, Hughes J, Mooney A, Benardeau A, Riboulet W, Vandjour A, Jacobsen B, Apfel C, Conde-Knape K, Grouix B, Felton A, Sarra-Bournet F, Leduc M, Geerts L, Gervais L, Abbott S, Bienvenu JF, Duceppe JS, Zacharie B, Penney C, Laurin P, Gagnon L, Tanaka T, Yamaguchi J, Nangaku M, Niwa T, Bolati D, Shimizu H, Yisireyili M, Nishijima F, Brocca A, Virzi G, de Cal M, Ronco C, Priante G, Musacchio E, Valvason C, Sartori L, Piccoli A, Baggio B, Boor P, Perkuhn M, Weibrecht M, Zok S, Martin IV, Schoth F, Ostendorf T, Kuhl C, Floege J, Karabaeva A, Essaian A, Beresneva O, Parastaeva M, Kayukov I, Smirnov A, Audzeyenka I, Kasztan M, Piwkowska A, Rogacka D, Angielski S, Jankowski M, Bockmeyer CL, Kokowicz K, Agustian PA, Zell S, Wittig J, Becker JU, Nishizono R, Venkatareddy MP, Chowdhury MA, Wang SQ, Fukuda A, Wickman LT, Yang Y, Wiggins RC, Fazio MR, Donato V, Lucisano S, Cernaro V, Lupica R, Trimboli D, Montalto G, Aloisi C, Mazzeo AT, Buemi M, Gawrys O, Olszynski KH, Kuczeriszka M, Gawarecka K, Swiezewska E, Chmielewski M, Masnyk M, Rafalowska J, Kompanowska-Jezierska E, Lee WC, Chau YY, Lee LC, Chiu CH, Lee CT, Chen JB, Kim WK, Shin SJ. Experimental models of CKD. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gft114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Otton J, Hussain T, Blume U, Geerts L, Wiethoff A. Pulmonary Angiography Without Contrast or Ionizing Radiation with Pulmonary ASL. Heart Lung Circ 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2012.05.538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Bode AS, Planken RN, Merkx MAG, van der Sande FM, Geerts L, Tordoir JHM, Leiner T. Feasibility of non-contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography for imaging upper extremity vasculature prior to vascular access creation. Eur J Vasc Endovasc Surg 2011; 43:88-94. [PMID: 22070856 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejvs.2011.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2011] [Accepted: 09/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Preoperative mapping of arterial and venous anatomy helps to prevent postoperative complications after vascular access creation. The use of gadolinium in contrast-enhanced (CE) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) has been linked to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The purpose of this study was to evaluate non-contrast-enhanced (NCE) MRA for assessment of upper extremity and central vasculature and to compare it with CE-MRA. METHODS NCE and CE-MRA images were acquired in 10 healthy volunteers and 15 patients with ESRD. In each data set, two observers analysed 11 arterial and 16 venous segments with regard to image quality (0-4), presence of artefacts (0-2) and vessel-to-background ratio. RESULTS More arterial segments were depicted using CE-MRA compared to NCE-MRA (99% vs. 96%, p = 0.001) with mean image quality of 3.80 vs. 2.68, (p < 0.001) and mean vessel-to-background ratio of 6.47 vs. 4.14 (p < 0.001). Ninety-one percent of the venous segments were portrayed using NCE-MRA vs. 80% using CE-MRA (p < 0.001). Mean image quality and vessel-to-background ratio were 2.41 vs. 2.21 (p = 0.140) and 5.13 vs. 3.88 (p < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Although arterial image quality and vessel-to-background ratios were lower, NCE-MRA is considered a feasible alternative to CE-MRA in patients with ESRD who need imaging of the upper extremity and central vasculature prior to dialysis access creation.
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Geerts L, Widmer T. Which is the most accurate formula to estimate fetal weight in women with severe preterm preeclampsia? J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2011; 24:271-9. [PMID: 21231823 DOI: 10.3109/14767058.2010.485232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the most accurate formula to estimate fetal weight (EFW) from ultrasound parameters in severe preterm preeclampsia. METHODS In a prospective study, serial ultrasound assessments were performed in 123 women with severe preterm preeclampsia. The EFW, calculated for 111 live born, normal, singleton fetuses within 7 days of delivery using 38 published formulae, was compared to the actual birth weight (ABW). Accuracy was assessed by correlations, mean (absolute and signed) (%) errors, % correct predictions within 5-20% of ABW and limits of agreement. RESULTS Accuracy was highly variable. Most formulae systematically overestimated ABW. Five Hadlock formulae utilizing three or four variables and Woo 3 formula had the highest accuracy and did not differ significantly (mean absolute % errors 6.8-7.2%, SDs 5.3-5.8%, > 75% of estimations within 10% of ABW and 95% limits of agreement between -18/20% and +14/15%). They were not negatively affected by clinical variables but had some inconsistency in bias over the ABW range. All other formulae, including those targeted for small, preterm or growth restricted fetuses, were inferior and/or affected by multiple clinical variables. CONCLUSION In this GA window, Hadlock formulae using three or four variables or Woo 3 formula can be recommended.
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Vythilingum B, Geerts L, Fincham D, Roos A, Faure S, Jonkers J, Stein DJ. Association between antenatal distress and uterine artery pulsatility index. Arch Womens Ment Health 2010; 13:359-64. [PMID: 20119861 DOI: 10.1007/s00737-010-0144-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2009] [Accepted: 01/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although studies have found associations between maternal distress/anxiety and alterations in blood flow, data across different trimesters are inconsistent. We, therefore, sought to determine the association between measures of distress and uterine blood flow in all three trimesters. Healthy women with low-risk singleton pregnancies were recruited from antenatal clinics. Women were assessed at 13-14 weeks (T1), 21-22 weeks (T2), and 32-33 weeks (T3) of gestation with measures of distress and anxiety (the K10, Perceived Stress Scale, and the State Subscale of the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory [STAI]) and with uterine Doppler flow velocity studies. The Trait Subscale of the STAI was done either at T1 or T2. Thirty women were seen at T1, 79 women were seen at T2, and 59 women were seen at T3. No significant correlations were found between measures of distress and anxiety and umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) or middle cerebral artery PI at any time-point. Small positive correlations between trait anxiety and uterine artery PI were found, but these were not significant after adjustment for alcohol and nicotine use (any use as well as problem drinking/nicotine dependence). At T3 but not T1 or T2, women scoring above 20 on the K10 (a standardized cutoff for the presence of axis I psychiatric disorders) had higher uterine artery PI than those scoring below 20.This was significant after adjusting for alcohol and nicotine use, as well as when nicotine dependence was considered. This work highlights the complexities of the relationship between increased measures of distress and anxiety and changes in the placental circulation. Further work in this area is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms which account for this relationship and to delineate fully the extent to which the relationship is determined by the presence of psychiatric and substance use disorders.
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Kukuk GM, Hadizadeh DR, Gieseke J, Bergener J, Beck G, Geerts L, Mürtz P, Boström A, Urbach H, Schild HH, Willinek WA. 4D-MRA in combination with selective arterial spin labelling (sASL) for characterization of arteriovenous malformations at 3 T. ROFO-FORTSCHR RONTG 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1124053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Theron G, Schabort C, Norman K, Thompson M, Geerts L. Centile charts of cervical length between 18 and 32 weeks of gestation. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2008; 103:144-8. [PMID: 18775533 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2008.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2008] [Revised: 05/30/2008] [Accepted: 06/02/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish a centile chart of cervical length between 18 and 32 weeks of gestation in a low-risk population of women. METHODS A prospective longitudinal cohort study of women with a low risk, singleton pregnancy using public healthcare facilities in Cape Town, South Africa. Transvaginal measurement of cervical length was performed between 16 and 32 weeks of gestation and used to construct centile charts. The distribution of cervical length was determined for gestational ages and was used to establish estimates of longitudinal percentiles. Centile charts were constructed for nulliparous and multiparous women together and separately. RESULTS Centile estimation was based on data from 344 women. Percentiles showed progressive cervical shortening with increasing gestational age. Averaged over the entire follow-up period, mean cervical length was 1.5 mm shorter in nulliparous women compared with multiparous women (95% CI, 0.4-2.6). CONCLUSIONS Establishment of longitudinal reference values of cervical length in a low-risk population will contribute toward a better understanding of cervical length in women at risk for preterm labor.
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Geerts L. Prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities in a resource-poor setting. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2008; 103:16-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijgo.2008.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2008] [Revised: 05/21/2008] [Accepted: 05/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Theron GB, Geerts L, Thompson ML, Theron AM. A centile chart for fetal weight for gestational ages 24-27 weeks. S Afr Med J 2008; 98:270-271. [PMID: 18637633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
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