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Reply. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. GLOBAL 2024; 3:100266. [PMID: 38784440 PMCID: PMC11112354 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacig.2024.100266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
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Non-Skin-Related Symptoms are Common in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria and Linked to Active and Uncontrolled Disease: Results from CURE. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024:S2213-2198(24)00412-4. [PMID: 38670260 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) can present with non-skin-related symptoms (NSRS), including recurrent unexplained fever, joint/bone/muscle pain (JBMP), and malaise, which also occur in other conditions that manifest with wheals (e.g., urticarial vasculitis or autoinflammatory disorders) or without wheals (e.g., infection). OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the rate of patients with CSU affected by fever, JBMP and malaise, their trigger factors, links with clinical and laboratory characteristics, and their impact on everyday life and treatment responses. METHODS We analyzed baseline data from the Chronic Urticaria Registry (CURE) of 2,521 patients with CSU who were ≥16 years old. RESULTS One-third of CSU patients (31.2%, 786/2,521) had ≥1 NSRS, including recurrent fever (5.3%), JBMP (19.1%), and/or malaise (18.6%). In a multivariable analysis, having ≥1 of these NSRS correlated with food and infection as trigger factors of urticaria (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.7 and 1.5), wheals of ≥24 hours duration (aOR=2.5), sleep disturbance (aOR=2.4), anxiety (aOR=2.8), comorbid atopic dermatitis (aOR=2.1), gastrointestinal disease (aOR=1.8), elevated leukocytes (aOR=1.7) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (aOR=1.5). In a bivariate analysis, these NSRS were additionally associated with higher disease activity (UAS7, median: 21 vs. 14, p=0.009), longer disease duration (years, median: 2 vs. 1, p=0.001), presence of angioedema (74.6% vs. 58.7%, p<0.001), worse quality of life (CU-Q2oL, median: 42 vs. 29, p<0.001) and more frequent poor control of CSU (78% vs. 69%, p<0.001). CONCLUSION The presence of NSRS in a subpopulation of CSU patients points to a need for better control of the disease, exclusion of comorbid conditions and/or exclusion of urticarial vasculitis and urticarial autoinflammatory diseases.
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The impact of COVID-19 public health measures on attendance and overdose at supervised injecting facilities in Australia. Public Health 2023; 224:90-97. [PMID: 37742585 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2023.08.019] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted service provision of harm reduction and drug treatment services for people who inject drugs in many countries. The two supervised injecting facilities (SIFs) in Sydney and Melbourne were differentially impacted by the pandemic, requiring local procedural changes in each service. We aimed to examine the impact of pandemic responses (including restrictions on movement, known as 'lockdowns') on service use and key parameters such as client reports of drug injected and recorded overdose rates. STUDY DESIGN Time series analysis of weekly client visits and monthly overdoses occurring at each service. METHODS Administrative client data from the two SIFs (Sydney data from 1 January 2018 to 30 April 2022; Melbourne data from 1 July 2018 to 30 April 2022) were examined using interrupted time series analyses with lockdown dates in each state entered as interruption terms. We analysed weekly SIF visits overall and by drug type, and monthly rates of opioid overdose at each service. RESULTS Lockdowns resulted in decreased visits to both services. The number of weekly client visits decreased during the first national lockdown for both the Sydney (trend change = -57.9; 95% CI [-109.4, -6.4]) and Melbourne SIF (near sig trend change = -54.8 [-110.8, 1.05]). Trends in visit numbers increased after lockdowns were lifted in each city; however, visits in Sydney have not returned to the numbers recorded prior to the pandemic. Visits to the Melbourne SIF related to heroin use declined at each lockdown (trend 1 = -42.7 [-81.5, -3.9]; trend 2 = -56.1 [-94.6, -17.7]; trend 3 = -33.8 [-67.4, -0.2]); heroin visits to the Sydney SIF declined during the first lockdown and remained low (trend = -55.6 [-82.8, -28.3]). Methamphetamine visits to the Sydney SIF fluctuated, surpassing heroin visits at several timepoints. Rates of monthly opioid overdoses at both services declined immediately following the start of the first lockdown (Sydney = -16.6 [-26.1, -6.8]; Melbourne = -6.4 [-8.7, -4.1]), with increasing trends recorded at the end of the final lockdown in each jurisdiction (Sydney = 2.8 [0.6, 5.0]; Melbourne = 1.3 [0.72, 3.2]). CONCLUSIONS Public health restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with reduced client visits to, and overdoses in, Australian SIFs. Variations were noted in the drugs injected, likely reflecting changes in local drug markets. Shifts to other drugs during these periods were evident: methamphetamine in Sydney; co-injection of heroin and diphenhydramine in Melbourne.
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New-onset chronic spontaneous urticaria post-COVID-19 vaccination-South African case series. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. GLOBAL 2023; 2:100154. [PMID: 37781658 PMCID: PMC10509972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacig.2023.100154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined as the spontaneous occurrence of hives, angioedema, or both for more than 6 weeks; several inciting triggers including vaccines have been implicated. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations have been well tolerated by patients with CSU. However, reports have emerged of CSU triggered by COVID-19 vaccination and this study describes a South African case series. Objective To provide details of the first case series of new-onset CSU post-COVID-19 vaccination in Africa and summarize the global literature of reported cases to date. Methods All patients referred to our Urticaria Center of Excellence in Cape Town from the initiation of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in South Africa (from February 2021 to August 2022) were reviewed to identify patients who developed new-onset CSU within 12 weeks of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Medical history, physical examinations, and laboratory investigations were reviewed. Results More than 20 million adults received COVID-19 vaccinations in South Africa during the study period. Eight patients had new-onset chronic urticaria post-COVID-19 vaccination; 6 of the 8 patients were female, the median age was 41 years (interquartile range [IQR], 38-44), and all had a history of atopy. Only 1 reported COVID-19 infection post vaccination. Chronic urticaria occurred following Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, and Janssen Ad26.COV2.S vaccination in 6, 1, and 1 patient, respectively, with a median of 12 days (IQR, 3-38) from vaccination to symptoms onset. The baseline median score for Urticarial Activity Score 7 was 34 (IQR, 29-40), and 5 of the 8 patients (63%) had a total IgE level of more than 43 IU/L. All patients received high-dose antihistamines, with only 3 patients controlled. Conclusions New-onset CSU can rarely be triggered by COVID-19 vaccinations, most commonly mRNA vaccines. COVID-19 vaccine-triggered CSU appears to have a phenotype similar to that triggered by other inciting agents and across populations.
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Urticaria exacerbations and adverse reactions in patients with chronic urticaria receiving COVID-19 vaccination: Results of the UCARE COVAC-CU study. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 152:1095-1106. [PMID: 37574079 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.07.019] [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: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Concern about disease exacerbations and fear of reactions after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations are common in chronic urticaria (CU) patients and may lead to vaccine hesitancy. OBJECTIVE We assessed the frequency and risk factors of CU exacerbation and adverse reactions in CU patients after COVID-19 vaccination. METHODS COVAC-CU is an international multicenter study of Urticaria Centers of Reference and Excellence (UCAREs) that retrospectively evaluated the effects of COVID-19 vaccination in CU patients aged ≥18 years and vaccinated with ≥1 dose of any COVID-19 vaccine. We evaluated CU exacerbations and severe allergic reactions as well as other adverse events associated with COVID-19 vaccinations and their association with various CU parameters. RESULTS Across 2769 COVID-19-vaccinated CU patients, most (90%) received at least 2 COVID-19 vaccine doses, and most patients received CU treatment and had well-controlled disease. The rate of COVID-19 vaccination-induced CU exacerbation was 9%. Of 223 patients with CU exacerbation after the first dose, 53.4% experienced recurrence of CU exacerbation after the second dose. CU exacerbation most often started <48 hours after vaccination (59.2%), lasted for a few weeks or less (70%), and was treated mainly with antihistamines (70.3%). Factors that increased the risk for COVID-19 vaccination-induced CU exacerbation included female sex, disease duration shorter than 24 months, having chronic spontaneous versus inducible urticaria, receipt of adenovirus viral vector vaccine, having nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug/aspirin intolerance, and having concerns about getting vaccinated; receiving omalizumab treatment and Latino/Hispanic ethnicity lowered the risk. First-dose vaccine-related adverse effects, most commonly local reactions, fever, fatigue, and muscle pain, were reported by 43.5% of CU patients. Seven patients reported severe allergic reactions. CONCLUSIONS COVID-19 vaccination leads to disease exacerbation in only a small number of CU patients and is generally well tolerated.
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Acute angioedema in Cape Town emergency centres and a suggested algorithm to simplify and improve management. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:51-57. [PMID: 37882115 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i8.717] [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: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Angioedema is the most common acute allergic presentation to emergency centres (EC), with hospitalisation rates increasing in high-income countries. Angioedema can complicate with life-threatening laryngeal obstruction. There are no local data; therefore, we aimed to characterise acute angioedema cases presenting to ECs and develop a simple management algorithm. OBJECTIVE To characterise the clinical presentation, management and outcomes of acute angioedema cases presenting to ECs. Based on these findings, we developed a management algorithm for acute angioedema to improve the care of acute angioedema in South Africa (SA). METHODS We conducted a retrospective folder review of all patients admitted to Groote Schuur Hospital (tertiary) and Mitchells Plain District Hospital (secondary) ECs from 1 June 2018 to 31 June 2020. Using ICD-10 coding, folders of adults ≥18 years with possible angioedema presenting to the ECs were screened. An allergist extracted demographics, medical history, management and outcome data for each angioedema event. RESULTS A total of 142 acute angioedema episodes were included, with a median (interquartile range) age of 42 (28 - 58) years, and 62% of patients were female. The majority (124/142, 87%) of acute angioedema EC presentations involved swelling above the shoulders, with airway involvement in 20 (14%) patients, with two patients requiring intubation. Nineteen (13%) patients required admission, with five (26%) admitted to high care/intensive care. Drug-induced angioedema was the most common cause, with 64/142 (45%) linked to a known offending drug, 42/64 (65.6%) being angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I). Critical information to guide angioedema management, including past personal/family allergy history, and duration of angioedema prior to EC visit, was not recorded in 64.7% and 37.8% of EC records, respectively. Unnecessary treatment with corticosteroids or antihistamines occurred in 19/53 (36%) and 16/53 (30%) cases with bradykinin-mediated angioedema ACE-I angioedema and hereditary angioedema). Overall, only 36/142 (25%) of angioedema patients were connected to allergy care. CONCLUSION Angioedema is the most common allergy presentation to two ECs in Cape Town, SA. Bradykinin-mediated angioedema secondary to ACE-I therapy is the single most common offender, and was not appropriately managed in more than a third of cases. Based on these findings, we have developed a management algorithm that easily stratifies patients into bradykinin or mast cell-mediated angioedema with a step-by-step management approach that is applicable to the SA context. Ongoing awareness and education on allergy emergencies are required to ensure accurate diagnosis of less common causes of angioedema (particularly bradykinin-mediated angioedema) and linkage to allergy specialist care.
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Low self-reported penicillin allergy in South Africa-implications for global public health response. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2023; 5:dlad015. [PMID: 36824225 PMCID: PMC9942546 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives In high-income countries, up to 25% of inpatients have a self-reported penicillin allergy (PA). After testing, 95% of these self-reported PAs are incorrect. These incorrectly labelled PAs increase the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and drive bacterial resistance. The epidemiology of PA in low- and middle-income countries is unknown. We aimed to describe the epidemiology and delabelling outcomes of self-reported PA in South African (SA) inpatients. Methods We conducted point prevalence surveys between April 2019 and June 2021 at seven hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa. A team trained in the PEN-FAST allergy decision tool conducted in-person interviews, and reviewed patient notes to identify and risk stratify inpatients with a self-reported PA. These patients were referred to the Groote Schuur Hospital (GSH) allergy clinic for delabelling. Results A total of 1486 hospital inpatients were surveyed and 3.2% (n = 48) carried a PA label. Importantly, 64.6% (n = 31) were classified by PEN-FAST as low risk for true penicillin hypersensitivity. Overall, 25% of the self-reported PAs received a β-lactam antibiotic in hospital and were directly delabelled. Delabelling attrition was very high, with 6.3% (3/48) of the self-reported PAs attending the GSH allergy clinic, and only one patient proceeding to a negative oral penicillin challenge. Conclusions Inpatient self-reported PA was lower in South Africa hospitals compared with other upper-middle-income countries, and the majority of patients carried a low-risk PA label. Linkage for delabelling with the allergy clinic was very poor, and thus strategies to improve access and delivery of delabelling remains an urgent public health issue.
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Self-reported beta-lactam allergy in government and private hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa. S Afr Med J 2023; 113:69-74. [PMID: 36757070 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2023.v113i2.16760] [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: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to a quarter of inpatients in high-income countries (HICs) self-report beta-lactam allergy (BLA), which if incorrect,increases the use of alternative antibiotics, worsening individual health outcomes and driving bacterial resistance. In HICs, up to 95% ofself-reported BLAs are incorrect. The epidemiology of BLA in low- and middle-income African countries is unknown. OBJECTIVES To describe the epidemiology and de-labelling outcomes of self-reported BLA in hospitalised South African (SA) patients. METHODS Point-prevalence surveys were conducted at seven hospitals (adult, paediatric, government and privately funded, district andtertiary level) in Cape Town, SA, between April 2019 and June 2021. Ward prescription records and in-person interviews were conductedto identify and risk-stratify BLA patients using the validated PEN-FAST tool. De-labelling was attempted at the tertiary allergy clinic atGroote Schuur Hospital. RESULTS A total of 1 486 hospital inpatients were surveyed (1 166 adults and 320 children). Only 48 patients (3.2%) self-reported a BLA,with a higher rate in private than in government-funded hospitals (6.3% v. 2.8%; p=0.014). Using the PEN-FAST tool, only 10.4% (n=5/48)of self-reported BLA patients were classified as high risk for true penicillin hypersensitivity. Antibiotics were prescribed to 70.8% (n=34/48)of self-reported BLA patients, with 64.7% (n=22/34) receiving a beta-lactam. Despite three attempts to contact patients for de-labelling atthe allergy clinic, only 3/36 underwent in vivo testing, with no positive results, and 1 patient proceeded to a negative oral challenge. CONCLUSION Unlike HICs, self-reported BLA is low among inpatients in SA. The majority of those who self-reported BLA were low risk fortype 1 hypersensitivity, but outpatient de-labelling efforts were largely unsuccessful.
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Operational Tritium Inventories in the EU-DEMO Fuel Cycle. FUSION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15361055.2022.2101834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells: MULTIPOTENT ADULT PROGENITOR CELLS MODULATE MONOCYTE/MACROPHAGE PHENOTYPE, CYTOKINE SECRETION AND FUNCTION. Cytotherapy 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/s1465-3249(22)00205-5] [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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Allergic reactions to the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine in South Africa. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. GLOBAL 2022; 1:2-8. [PMID: 37780073 PMCID: PMC10509997 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacig.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Background The Janssen-Ad26.COV2.S vaccine is authorized for use in several countries, with more than 30 million doses administered. Mild and severe allergic adverse events following immunization (AEFI) have been reported. Objective We sought to detail allergic reactions reported during the Sisonke phase 3B study in South Africa. Methods A single dose of the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine was administered to 4,77,234 South African health care workers between February 17 and May 17, 2021. Monitoring of adverse events used a combination of passive reporting and active case finding. Telephonic contact was attempted for all adverse events reported as "allergy." Anaphylaxis adjudication was performed using the Brighton Collaboration and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease case definitions. Results Only 251 (0.052%) patients reported any allergic-type reaction (<1 in 2000), with 4 cases of adjudicated anaphylaxis (Brighton Collaboration level 1, n = 3) (prevalence of 8.4 per million doses). All anaphylaxis cases had a previous history of drug or vaccine-associated anaphylaxis. Cutaneous allergic reactions were the commonest nonanaphylatic reactions and included self-limiting, transient/localized rashes requiring no health care contact (n = 92) or isolated urticaria and/or angioedema (n = 70; median onset, 48 [interquartile range, 11.5-120] hours postvaccination) that necessitated health care contact (81%), antihistamine (63%), and/or systemic/topical corticosteroid (16%). All immediate (including adjudicated anaphylaxis) and most delayed AEFI (65 of 69) cases resolved completely. Conclusions Allergic AEFI are rare following a single dose of Ad26.COV, with complete resolution in all cases of anaphylaxis. Although rare, isolated, delayed-onset urticaria and/or angioedema was the commonest allergic AEFI requiring treatment, with nearly half occurring in participants without known atopic disease.
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Robustness of ZAO based NEG pump solutions for fusion applications. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2021.112306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Progress of the conceptual design of the European DEMO breeding blanket, tritium extraction and coolant purification systems. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2020.111640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Prevalence and outcome of delirium among acute general medical inpatients in Cape Town, South Africa. S Afr Med J 2020; 110:519-524. [PMID: 32880565 DOI: 10.7196/samj.2020.v110i6.14363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Delirium is a common, serious, underdiagnosed condition in medical and surgical inpatients with acute conditions. It is associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity. Data of geriatric cohorts are largely limited to developed countries. OBJECTIVES To describe prevalence, risk factors and outcomes of delirium among general medical patients admitted to two hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of patients with acute conditions admitted to a general medical inpatient service in secondary- and tertiary-level public hospitals in the Metro West area of Cape Town. Patients ≥18 years of age were recruited daily from all acute medical admissions. Patients were excluded if they were aphasic or their Glasgow coma scale was <8/15. Delirium was diagnosed using the validated confusion assessment method (CAM) tool and performed by trained neuropsychologists. Demographic data were collected by a clinical team and short- and long-term mortality data were obtained using linkage analysis of hospitalised patients and routinely collected provincial death certification records. RESULTS The median age of inpatients was 51 (interquartile range 36 - 65) years, 29% were HIV-infected and the overall prevalence of delirium was 12.3%. Multivariate predictors of delirium included the presence of an indwelling urinary catheter (odds ratio (OR) 4.47; confidence interval (CI) 2.43 - 8.23), admission with a central nervous system disease (OR 4.34; CI 2.79 - 7.90), pre-existing cognitive impairment (OR 3.02; CI 1.22 - 7.43) and immobility (OR 1.88; CI 1.01 - 3.51). HIV infection was not associated with increased risk of delirium. Delirium was associated with an increased risk of inhospital (delirium v. no delirium: 29% v. 12%; p<0.01) and 12-month (30% v. 20%; p<0.01) mortality, as well as increased length of hospital stay (7 days v. 5 days; p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of medical inpatients (relatively young and with a high HIV prevalence) 1 of 8 (12.3%) patients was delirious. Delirium was associated with adverse outcomes. Delirium risk factors in this young cohort were similar to those in geriatric cohorts in developed countries, and neither HIV nor opportunistic infections increased risk.
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Technology Development for Isotope Rebalancing and Protium Removal in the EU-DEMO Fuel Cycle. FUSION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/15361055.2019.1704139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Development of a viable route for lithium-6 supply of DEMO and future fusion power plants. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2019.111339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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The utility of a shortened palliative care screening tool to predict death within 12 months - a prospective observational study in two south African hospitals with a high HIV burden. BMC Palliat Care 2019; 18:101. [PMID: 31722691 PMCID: PMC6854790 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-019-0487-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Timely identification of people who are at risk of dying is an important first component of end-of-life care. Clinicians often fail to identify such patients, thus trigger tools have been developed to assist in this process. We aimed to evaluate the performance of a identification tool (based on the Gold Standards Framework Prognostic Indicator Guidance) to predict death at 12 months in a population of hospitalised patients in South Africa. Methods Patients admitted to the acute medical services in two public hospitals in Cape Town, South Africa were enrolled in a prospective observational study. Demographic data were collected from patients and patient notes. Patients were assessed within two days of admission by two trained clinicians who were not the primary care givers, using the identification tool. Outcome mortality data were obtained from patient folders, the hospital electronic patient management system and the Western Cape Provincial death registry which links a unique patient identification number with national death certificate records and system wide electronic records. Results 822 patients (median age of 52 years), admitted with a variety of medical conditions were assessed during their admission. 22% of the cohort were HIV-infected. 218 patients were identified using the screening tool as being in the last year of their lives. Mortality in this group was 56% at 12 months, compared with 7% for those not meeting any criteria. The specific indicator component of the tool performed best in predicting death in both HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected patients, with a sensitivity of 74% (68–81%), specificity of 85% (83–88%), a positive predictive value of 56% (49–63%) and a negative predictive value of 93% (91–95%). The hazard ratio of 12-month mortality for those identified vs not was 11.52 (7.87–16.9, p < 0.001). Conclusions The identification tool is suitable for use in hospitals in low-middle income country setting that have both a high communicable and non-communicable disease burden amongst young patients, the majority under age 60.
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Conceptual design of scalable vacuum pump to validate sintered getter technology for future NBI application. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2018.11.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Characterization of ZAO® sintered getter material for use in fusion applications. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2019.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Audit of enteral nutrition provision during citrate anticoagulation of continuous renal replacement therapy in the intensive care units. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2018.09.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Rapidly increasing body mass index among children, adolescents and young adults in a transitioning population, South Africa, 2008-15. Int J Epidemiol 2018; 47:2099. [PMID: 30376046 PMCID: PMC6280934 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyy248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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Application of CDK4/6 inhibitors in practice: Effect of online education on clinician competence and confidence. Ann Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy272.333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Impedance-based sensor for potassium ions. Anal Chim Acta 2018; 1034:39-45. [PMID: 30193638 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2018.06.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A conductometric sensor for potassium ions in solution is presented. Interdigitated, planar gold electrodes were coated with a potassium-selective polymer membrane composed of a poly(vinyl chloride) matrix with about 65 wt% of plasticiser and 2-5 wt% of a potassium-selective ionophore. The impedance of the membrane was measured, using the electrodes as a transducer, and related to the concentration of potassium in a sample solution in contact with the membrane. Sensitivity was optimised by varying the sensor components, and selectivity for potassium over sodium was also shown. The resulting devices are compact, miniature, robust sensors which, by means of impedance measurements, eliminate the need for a reference electrode. The sensor was tested for potassium concentration changes of 2 mM across the clinically relevant range of 2.7-18.7 mM.
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Optimizing the use of EGFR antibodies across the continuum of care in mCRC: Effect of online education on clinician knowledge, competence and confidence. Ann Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy151.284] [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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Treatment based on tumor sidedness in mCRC: Effect of online education on clinician knowledge, competence and confidence. Ann Oncol 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdy151.286] [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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Rapidly increasing body mass index among children, adolescents and young adults in a transitioning population, South Africa, 2008-15. Int J Epidemiol 2018; 47:942-952. [PMID: 29253189 PMCID: PMC6005035 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyx263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a global epidemic of overweight and obesity; however, this rate of increase is even greater in some low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). South Africa (SA) is undergoing rapid socioeconomic and demographic changes that have triggered a rapid nutrition transition. The paper focuses on the recent rate of change of body mass index (BMI) among children, adolescents and young adults, further stratified by key sociodemographic factors. Methods We analysed mean BMI of 28 247 individuals (including children) from 7301 households by age and year, from anthropometric data from four national cross-sectional (repeated panel) surveys using non-linear fitted curves and associated 95% confidence intervals. Results From 2008 to 2015, there was rapid rise in mean BMI in the 6-25 age band, with the highest risk (3-4+ BMI unit increase) among children aged 8-10 years. The increase was largely among females in urban areas and of middle-high socioeconomic standing. Prominent gains were also observed in certain rural areas, with extensive geographical heterogeneity across the country. Conclusions We have demonstrated a major deviation from the current understanding of patterns of BMI increase, with a rate of increase substantially greater in the developing world context compared with the global pattern. This population-wide effect will have major consequences for national development as the epidemic of related non-communicable disease unfolds, and will overtax the national health care budget. Our refined understanding highlights that risks are further compounded for certain groups/places, and emphasizes that urgent geographical and population-targeted interventions are necessary. These interventions could include a sugar tax, clearer food labelling, revised school feeding programmes and mandatory bans on unhealthy food marketing to children.The scenario unfolding in South Africa will likely be followed in other LMICs.
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105 Assessing CEACAM1 blockade as a therapeutic strategy using a CRISPR-Cas9-based mouse melanoma model. J Invest Dermatol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.03.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Application of CDK4/6 inhibitors in advanced breast cancer: Effect of online education on clinician knowledge, competence and confidence. Eur J Cancer 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(18)30531-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Predictive biomarkers for CDK4/6 inhibitors: Effect of online education on clinician knowledge. Eur J Cancer 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(18)30534-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Management of HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer with CDK4/6 inhibitors: Effect of online education on clinician knowledge, competence and confidence. Eur J Cancer 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(18)30533-1] [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]
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Abstract
Introduction: Home haemodialysis has been advocated due to improved quality of life. However, there are very little data on the optimum vascular access for it. Method: A retrospective cohort study was carried on all patients who initiated home haemodialysis between 2011 and 2016 at a large university hospital. Access-related hospital admissions and interventions were used as primary outcome measures. Results: Our cohort consisted of 74 patients. On initiation of home haemodialysis, 62 individuals were using an arteriovenous fistula as vascular access, while the remaining were on a tunnelled dialysis catheter. Of the 12 patients who started on a tunnelled dialysis catheter, 5 were subsequently converted to either an arteriovenous fistula ( n = 4) or an arteriovenous graft ( n = 1). During the period of home haemodialysis use, four arteriovenous fistula failed or thrombosed with patients continuing on home haemodialysis using an arteriovenous graft ( n = 3) or a tunnelled dialysis catheter ( n = 1). To maintain uninterrupted home haemodialysis, interventional rates were 0.32 per arteriovenous fistula/arteriovenous graft access-year and 0.4 per tunnelled dialysis catheter access-year. Hospital admission rates for patients on home haemodialysis were 0.33 per patient-year. Conclusion: Our study has shown that home haemodialysis can be safely and independently performed at home within a closely managed home haemodialysis programme. The authors also advocate the use of arteriovenous fistulas for this cohort of patients due to both low complication and intervention rates.
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159 Effects of Cross-sex Hormone Therapy on Laboratory Values in Female-to-male Transgender Patients. J Sex Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.11.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Mercury ring pump proof-of-principle testing in the THESEUS facility. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2017.03.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Neuroaxonal Dystrophy in a Flock of Pied Imperial Pigeons (Ducula bicolor). J Comp Pathol 2017; 156:451-457. [PMID: 28391972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Five juvenile pied imperial pigeons (Ducula bicolor) presented with neurological signs including torticollis, ataxia and poor flying ability. All were humanely destroyed and submitted for post-mortem examination. Microscopically, the most significant findings were in the brain and spinal cord. Spheroid formation was evident within the medulla, pons, diencephalon, cortical grey and subcortical white matter, spinal cord white and grey matter and the granular and molecular cell layers of the cerebellum. There was no evidence of associated inflammation. Immunohistochemistry revealed positive labelling within the spheroids for S100 axons and phosphorylated neurofilaments including SMI31, neurofilament cocktail and microtubule-associated protein 2. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the light microscopical findings of frequent axonal spheroids. These results are consistent with neuroaxonal dystrophy, which has not been described previously in pigeons. This highlights the importance of considering neuroaxonal dystrophy in juvenile birds with neurological signs. A genetic basis is suspected in this group.
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37th International Symposium on Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine (part 1 of 3). Crit Care 2017. [PMCID: PMC5374603 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-017-1628-y] [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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14: Superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO) syndrome caused by a ball like endovascular metastatic small cell lung cancer mass: A case report. Lung Cancer 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s0169-5002(17)30064-8] [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]
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Overview of the design approach and prioritization of R&D activities towards an EU DEMO. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2015.11.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Diagnostic performance of FibroTest, SteatoTest and ActiTest in patients with NAFLD using the SAF score as histological reference. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2016; 44:877-89. [PMID: 27549244 PMCID: PMC5113673 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood tests of liver injury are less well validated in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) than in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. AIMS To improve the validation of three blood tests used in NAFLD patients, FibroTest for fibrosis staging, SteatoTest for steatosis grading and ActiTest for inflammation activity grading. METHODS We pre-included new NAFLD patients with biopsy and blood tests from a single-centre cohort (FibroFrance) and from the multicentre FLIP consortium. Contemporaneous biopsies were blindly assessed using the new steatosis, activity and fibrosis (SAF) score, which provides a reliable and reproducible diagnosis and grading/staging of the three elementary features of NAFLD (steatosis, inflammatory activity) and fibrosis with reduced interobserver variability. We used nonbinary-ROC (NonBinAUROC) as the main endpoint to prevent spectrum effect and multiple testing. RESULTS A total of 600 patients with reliable tests and biopsies were included. The mean NonBinAUROCs (95% CI) of tests were all significant (P < 0.0001): 0.878 (0.864-0.892) for FibroTest and fibrosis stages, 0.846 (0.830-0.862) for ActiTest and activity grades, and 0.822 (0.804-0.840) for SteatoTest and steatosis grades. FibroTest had a higher NonBinAUROC than BARD (0.836; 0.820-0.852; P = 0.0001), FIB4 (0.845; 0.829-0.861; P = 0.007) but not significantly different than the NAFLD score (0.866; 0.850-0.882; P = 0.26). FibroTest had a significant difference in median values between adjacent stage F2 and stage F1 contrarily to BARD, FIB4 and NAFLD scores (Bonferroni test P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In patients with NAFLD, SteatoTest, ActiTest and FibroTest are non-invasive tests that offer an alternative to biopsy, and they correlate with the simple grading/staging of the SAF scoring system across the three elementary features of NAFLD: steatosis, inflammatory activity and fibrosis.
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Viral neurotropism, peripheral neuropathy and other morphological abnormalities in bovine ephemeral fever virus-infected downer cattle. Aust Vet J 2016; 94:362-70. [PMID: 27671080 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed the neurotropism of bovine ephemeral fever (BEF) virus (BEFV) and described histomorphological abnormalities of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves that may causally contribute to paresis or paralysis in BEF. METHODS Four paralysed and six asymptomatic but virus-infected cattle were monitored, and blood and serum samples screened by qRT-PCR, virus isolation and neutralisation tests. Fresh brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerve and other tissues were qRT-PCR-tested for viral RNA, while formalin-fixed specimens were processed routinely and immunohistochemically evaluated for histomorphological abnormalities and viral antigen distribution, respectively. RESULTS The neurotropism of BEFV was immunohistochemically confirmed in the brain and peripheral nerves and peripheral neuropathy was demonstrated in three paralysed but not the six aneurological but virus-infected animals. Wallerian degeneration (WD) was present in the ventral funicular white matter of the lumbar spinal cord of a paralysed steer and in cervical and thoracic spinal cord segments of three paralysed animals. Although no spinal cord lesions were seen in the steer euthanased within 7 days of illness, peripheral neuropathy was present and more severe in nerves of the brachial plexuses than in the gluteal or fibular nerves. The only steer with WD in the lumbar spinal cord also showed intrahistiocytic cell viral antigen that was spatially distributed within areas of moderate brain stem encephalitis. CONCLUSION The data confirmed neurotropism of BEFV in cattle and documented histomorphological abnormalities in peripheral nerves and brain which, together with spinal cord lesions, may contribute to chronic paralysis in BEFV-infected downer cattle.
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Glycaemic control with advanced new insulins for the treatment of diabetes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/edn.56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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From parent to 'peer facilitator': a qualitative study of a peer-led parenting programme. Child Care Health Dev 2015; 41:76-83. [PMID: 24673488 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peer-led interventions are increasingly common in community health settings. Although peer-led approaches have proven benefits for service users, relatively little is known about the process and outcomes of participation for peer leaders. This study investigated experiences of parents who had participated as 'peer facilitators' in Empowering Parents, Empowering Communities (EPEC), a peer-led programme designed to improve access to evidence-based parenting support in socially disadvantaged communities. METHOD A qualitative cross-sectional design was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 peer facilitators and scrutinized using thematic analysis. RESULTS Peer facilitators developed their knowledge and skills through personal experience of receiving parenting support, participation in formal training and supervised practice, access to an intervention manual, and peer modelling. Peer facilitators described positive changes in their own families, confidence and social status. Transformative personal gains reinforced peer facilitators' role commitment and contributed to a cohesive 'family' identity among EPEC staff and service users. Peer facilitators' enthusiasm, openness and mutual identification with families were seen as critical to EPEC's effectiveness and sustainability. Peer facilitators also found the training emotionally and intellectually demanding. There were particular difficulties around logistical issues (e.g. finding convenient supervision times), managing psychosocial complexity and child safeguarding. CONCLUSIONS The successful delivery and sustained implementation of peer-led interventions requires careful attention to the personal qualities and support of peer leaders. Based on the findings of this study, support should include training, access to intervention manuals, regular and responsive supervision, and logistical/administrative assistance. Further research is required to elaborate and extend these findings to other peer-led programmes.
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The effects of different orthodontic appliances upon microbial communities. Orthod Craniofac Res 2013; 17:115-23. [PMID: 24345204 DOI: 10.1111/ocr.12037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Orthodontic appliances can promote accumulation of dental plaque, with associated enamel decalcification or gingival inflammation. The aim of this study was to examine longer-term microbiological changes during orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-four orthodontic patients aged 11-14 years undergoing fixed appliance therapy were recruited into the study. Each was randomized for cross-mouth assignment of molar bands and bonded molar tubes to contralateral quadrants of the mouth. All patients received self-ligating brackets, but again using randomization, one upper lateral incisor bracket (left or right) also received an elastomeric ligature. Plaque samples from the molars and upper lateral incisors were obtained at intervals during treatment and up to 1 year after appliance removal. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and 16S rDNA microarray were used to compare plaque microbial fingerprints. RESULTS Plaque populations changed within 3 months of commencing treatment at all sites. The greatest differences in plaque composition were seen with self-ligating brackets with an elastomeric ligature. Post-treatment plaque associated with both types of molar attachment contained increased levels of periodontal pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Eubacterium nodatum, while Campylobacter rectus, Parvimonas micra, and Actinomyces odontolyticus were also elevated with bonds. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that orthodontic treatment may cause sustained changes in plaque microbiotas and that molar bond-associated plaque may have raised disease potential.
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OP40 Selenium Supplementation for the Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) – A Cochrane Systematic Review. Br J Soc Med 2012. [DOI: 10.1136/jech-2012-201753.040] [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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The European contribution to the development of the ITER NB injector. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2011.03.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Abstract
Opioid dependence, despite being the subject of significant public funding, remains a costly burden to Australian society in human and economic terms. The most cost-effective public health strategy for managing opioid dependence is opioid substitution therapy (OST), primarily through the use of methadone or buprenorphine. Supervised dispensing of OST from specialist clinics and community pharmacies plays a crucial role in enhancing compliance, monitoring treatment and reducing diversion. Australia, compared with other countries in the world, ranks very high in illicit opioid use; hence there is a great demand for OST.The utilisation of community pharmacies for stable patients has many advantages. For public clinics, patient transfer to community pharmacies relieves workload and costs, and increases capacity for new OST patients. From a patient's perspective, dosing at a pharmacy is more flexible and generally more preferable. Pharmacists stand to gain clientele, profit and receive small incentives from state governments in Australia, for their services. Yet, many "unmet needs" exist and there is a high demand for more involvement in OST service provision in community pharmacy in Australia.In the UK there has been a steady increase in community pharmacy provision of OST, and pharmacists appear ready to provide further healthcare services to these patients.The role of pharmacy in some countries in Europe, such as Germany, is less prominent due to their approach to harm minimisation and the complex, variable nature of OST provision across the European Union (EU). The provision of OST by pharmacists in the USA on the other hand is of lesser frequency as the healthcare system in the USA encourages detoxification clinics to handle cases of illicit drug addiction.At a time when harm minimisation strategies constitute a topic of considerable political and public interest, it is important to understand the scope and variability of pharmacy involvement in drug policy in Australia. Hence, this review highlights the role of pharmacists in OST and explores the scope for expanding this role in the future.
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Renal granular cell tumour (Abrikossoff tumour): case report and review of the literature. Br J Radiol 2011; 84:e45-7. [PMID: 21325355 DOI: 10.1259/bjr/25556016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A 52-year-old female was referred to our institute for an incidental renal mass. A homogenously enhancing mass was detected on multidetector CT (MDCT) imaging. Histologically, the tumour was consistent with granular cell tumour (GCT). GCT is a benign tumour that often involves the skin and subcutaneous tissue. Rarely has it been reported to involve the genitourinary system. Here we present the first reported case of GCT with renal involvement along with its MDCT imaging features. The authors also present a review of the literature along with a review of typical MDCT imaging features of enhancing renal masses with emphasis given to renal cell carcinoma and its varying subtypes.
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Abstract
Mast cell-derived prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) is the major prostanoid found within the airway of asthmatics immediately following allergen challenge. PGD2 has been shown to have chemokinetic effects on eosinophils and T helper type 2 (Th2) cells in vitro. This occurs through the interaction of PGD2 with the G-protein-coupled chemokine receptor homologous molecule expressed on Th2 lymphocytes (CRTH2). The expression of CRTH2 has been shown to be highly selective for Th2 cells. Using flow cytometry we have studied the expression of CRTH2 on T cells in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in asthmatics and normal subjects. CRTH2 expression was confined to a small percentage of blood T cells in asthmatics (1.8%+/-0.2) and normal (1.6%+/-0.2) subjects. CRTH2 was enriched significantly on interleukin (IL)-4+/IL-13+ T cells compared to interferon (IFN)-gamma+ T cells (P<0.001). There was a small population of CRTH2+ T cells in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of asthmatics (2.3%+/-0.6) and normal subjects (0.3%+/-0.1), and there was a significant difference between the two groups (P<0.05). There were similar amounts of PGD2 in the BAL of asthma and normal subjects. Within paired blood-BAL samples from the same subject there was no increase in CRTH2+ T cells in the BAL compared to blood in asthmatics. Enrichment of CRTH2 on IL-4+ and IL-13+ T cells compared to IFN-gamma+ T cells was also seen in BAL from asthmatics (P<0.001). CRTH2 is expressed preferentially by IL-4+/IL-13+ T cells compared to IFN-gamma+ T cells. However, given their small numbers they are unlikely to have a significant involvement in the pathogenesis of asthma. CRTH2 antagonism may not diminish T cell accumulation in the asthmatic lung.
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