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Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Access in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Association of Access with Social Determinants of Health and Travel Time to Treatment Centers. Transplant Cell Ther 2024:S2666-6367(24)00370-1. [PMID: 38697294 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtct.2024.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR T) therapy represents a novel treatment with curative potential for relapsed or refractory (R/R) LBCL, but there are access barriers to this innovative therapy that are not well-studied. (1) Assess the impact of geographic factors and social determinants of health (SDOH) on access to treatment with CAR T in a sample of patients with R/R LBCL and ≥2 prior lines of treatment (LOT). (2) Compare and contrast patient characteristics, SDOH, and travel time between patients with R/R LBCL who received CAR T and those who did not. An observational, nested case-control study of patients with R/R LBCL, ≥2 prior LOT, not in a clinical trial, identified using 100% Medicare Fee-For-Service and national multi-payer claims databases. Patients were linked to near-neighborhood SDOH using 9-digit ZIP-code address. Driving distance and time between residence and nearest CAR T treatment center (TC) was calculated. Patients were stratified based on treatments received upon third LOT initiation (Index Date) or later: (1) received CAR T and (2) did not receive CAR T. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with CAR T. About 5011 patients met inclusion criteria, with 628 (12.5%) in the CAR T group. Regression models found the likelihood of receiving CAR T decreased with patient age (odds ratio [OR] = .96, P < .001), and males were 29% more likely to receive CAR T (OR = 1.29, P = .02). Likelihood of CAR T increased with Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI; OR = 1.07, P < .001) indicating patients with more comorbidities were more likely to receive CAR T. Black patients were less than half as likely to receive CAR T than White patients (OR = .44, P = .01). Asian patients did not significantly differ from White patients (OR = 1.43, P = .24), and there was a trend for Hispanic patients to have a slightly lower likelihood of CAR T (OR = .50, P = .07). Higher household income was associated with receipt of CAR T, with the lowest income group more than 50% less likely to receive CAR T than the highest (OR = .44, P = .002), and the second lowest income group more than 30% less likely (OR = .68, P = .02). Finally, likelihood of CAR T therapy was reduced when the driving time to the nearest TC was 121 to 240 minutes (reference group: ≤30 minutes; OR = .64, P = .04). Travel times between 31 and 121 or greater than 240 minutes were not significantly different from ≤30 minutes. Payer type was collinear with age and could not be included in the regression analysis, but patients with commercial insurance were 1.5 to 3 times more likely to receive CAR T than other payers on an unadjusted basis. We identified significant disparities in access to CAR T related to demographics and SDOH. Patients who were older, female, low income, or Black were less likely to receive CAR T. The positive association of CCI with CAR T requires further research. Given the promising outcomes of CAR T, there is urgent need to address identified disparities and increase efforts to overcome access barriers.
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Observation of Seven Astrophysical Tau Neutrino Candidates with IceCube. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2024; 132:151001. [PMID: 38682982 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.132.151001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
We report on a measurement of astrophysical tau neutrinos with 9.7 yr of IceCube data. Using convolutional neural networks trained on images derived from simulated events, seven candidate ν_{τ} events were found with visible energies ranging from roughly 20 TeV to 1 PeV and a median expected parent ν_{τ} energy of about 200 TeV. Considering backgrounds from astrophysical and atmospheric neutrinos, and muons from π^{±}/K^{±} decays in atmospheric air showers, we obtain a total estimated background of about 0.5 events, dominated by non-ν_{τ} astrophysical neutrinos. Thus, we rule out the absence of astrophysical ν_{τ} at the 5σ level. The measured astrophysical ν_{τ} flux is consistent with expectations based on previously published IceCube astrophysical neutrino flux measurements and neutrino oscillations.
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Development of a Novel Fluorescent-Based Lateral Flow Assay for the Detection of Neisseria gonorrhoeae at the Point of Care. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:186-191. [PMID: 38412465 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) has acquired significant resistance, primarily due to extensive and unwarranted antibiotic utilization over several decades. This resistance has largely been associated with the syndromic management of sexually transmitted infections, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where affordable point of care tests are unavailable. To address this diagnostic gap, FIND has developed a low-cost lateral flow assay for the detection of NG at the point of care. METHODS The early performance of the lateral flow assay was evaluated using frozen clinical samples. Limit of detection, inclusivity, and exclusivity studies were performed using well-characterized NG strains, common commensal genital microorganisms, and other Neisseria bacteria. Subsequently, clinical performance was evaluated at 2 sexual health clinics in Birmingham, Alabama. RESULTS The observed limit of detection with reference NG strains was 5 × 103 CFU/mL. Inclusivity was demonstrated for 31 NG strains. Exclusivity testing showed no cross-reactivity with 28 non-Neisseria and nongonococcal Neisseria species; cross-reactivity was observed with Neisseria meningitidis, Neisseria lactamica, and Neisseria polysaccharea. The lateral flow assay demonstrated clinical sensitivity and specificity of 78.6% and 100% in female vaginal swabs and 100% and 89.7% in male urine, respectively. CONCLUSIONS FIND has developed a lateral flow assay that aligns with the majority of the World Health Organization Target Product Profile criteria for confirming or excluding NG infection at the point of care. The NG lateral flow assay has now achieved design freeze (final device optimization) and is ready for technology transfer to a manufacturing partner. This test has the potential to support the shift in patient management from a syndromic to an etiological approach.
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Point-of-care prognostication in moderate Covid-19: Analytical validation and prognostic accuracy of a soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) rapid test. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001538. [PMID: 37603548 PMCID: PMC10441780 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
The soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) has been proposed as a biomarker for risk stratification of patients presenting with acute infections. However, most studies evaluating suPAR have used platform-based assays, the accuracy of which may differ from point-of-care tests capable of informing timely triage in settings without established laboratory capacity. Using samples and data collected during a prospective cohort study of 425 patients presenting with moderate Covid-19 to two hospitals in India, we evaluated the analytical performance and prognostic accuracy of a commercially-available rapid diagnostic test (RDT) for suPAR, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) as the reference standard. Our hypothesis was that the suPAR RDT might be useful for triage of patients presenting with moderate Covid-19 irrespective of its analytical performance when compared with the reference test. Although agreement between the two tests was limited (bias = -2.46 ng/mL [95% CI = -2.65 to -2.27 ng/mL]), prognostic accuracy to predict supplemental oxygen requirement was comparable, whether suPAR was used alone (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] of RDT = 0.73 [95% CI = 0.68 to 0.79] vs. AUC of ELISA = 0.70 [95% CI = 0.63 to 0.76]; p = 0.12) or as part of a published multivariable prediction model (AUC of RDT-based model = 0.74 [95% CI = 0.66 to 0.83] vs. AUC of ELISA-based model = 0.72 [95% CI = 0.64 to 0.81]; p = 0.78). Lack of agreement between the RDT and ELISA in our cohort warrants further investigation and highlights the importance of assessing candidate point-of-care tests to ensure management algorithms reflect the assay that will ultimately be used to inform patient care. Availability of a quantitative point-of-care test for suPAR opens the door to suPAR-guided risk stratification of patients with Covid-19 and other acute infections in settings with limited laboratory capacity.
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Facilitating Safe Discharge Through Predicting Disease Progression in Moderate Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): A Prospective Cohort Study to Develop and Validate a Clinical Prediction Model in Resource-Limited Settings. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:e368-e379. [PMID: 35323932 PMCID: PMC9129107 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In locations where few people have received coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines, health systems remain vulnerable to surges in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. Tools to identify patients suitable for community-based management are urgently needed. METHODS We prospectively recruited adults presenting to 2 hospitals in India with moderate symptoms of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 to develop and validate a clinical prediction model to rule out progression to supplemental oxygen requirement. The primary outcome was defined as any of the following: SpO2 < 94%; respiratory rate > 30 BPM; SpO2/FiO2 < 400; or death. We specified a priori that each model would contain three clinical parameters (age, sex, and SpO2) and 1 of 7 shortlisted biochemical biomarkers measurable using commercially available rapid tests (C-reactive protein [CRP], D-dimer, interleukin 6 [IL-6], neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio [NLR], procalcitonin [PCT], soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cell-1 [sTREM-1], or soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor [suPAR]), to ensure the models would be suitable for resource-limited settings. We evaluated discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility of the models in a held-out temporal external validation cohort. RESULTS In total, 426 participants were recruited, of whom 89 (21.0%) met the primary outcome; 257 participants comprised the development cohort, and 166 comprised the validation cohort. The 3 models containing NLR, suPAR, or IL-6 demonstrated promising discrimination (c-statistics: 0.72-0.74) and calibration (calibration slopes: 1.01-1.05) in the validation cohort and provided greater utility than a model containing the clinical parameters alone. CONCLUSIONS We present 3 clinical prediction models that could help clinicians identify patients with moderate COVID-19 suitable for community-based management. The models are readily implementable and of particular relevance for locations with limited resources.
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FAST: Fourier domain adaptive optics simulation tool for bidirectional ground-space optical links through atmospheric turbulence. OPTICS EXPRESS 2022; 30:23050-23064. [PMID: 36224993 DOI: 10.1364/oe.458659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Free space optical links between the ground and space may be severely degraded by atmospheric turbulence. Adaptive Optics, a technique allowing partial correction of this degradation, is beginning to see use in the field with the potential to achieve more robust and higher bandwidth links. Here we present a simulation tool, FAST, which utilises an analytical Fourier domain Adaptive Optics model developed for astronomy. Using the reciprocity principle, the simulation may be applied either to downlink post-compensated or uplink pre-compensated beams. We show that FAST gives similar results to full end-to-end simulations with wave-optical propagation whilst being between 10 and 200 times faster, enabling the characterisation of optical links with complex Adaptive Optics systems in timely fashion.
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2021 Canadian Surgery Forum01. Design and validation of a unique endoscopy simulator using a commercial video game03. Is ethnicity an appropriate measure of health care marginalization?: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the outcomes of diabetic foot ulceration in the Aboriginal population04. Racial disparities in surgery — a cross-specialty matched comparison between black and white patients05. Starting late does not increase the risk of postoperative complications in patients undergoing common general surgical procedures06. Ethical decision-making during a health care crisis: a resource allocation framework and tool07. Ensuring stability in surgical training program leadership: a survey of program directors08. Introducing oncoplastic breast surgery in a community hospital09. Leadership development programs for surgical residents: a review of the literature10. Superiority of non-opioid postoperative pain management after thyroid and parathyroid operations: a systematic review and meta-analysis11. Timing of ERCP relative to cholecystectomy in patients with ductal gallstone disease12. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing intraoperative red blood cell transfusion strategies13. Postoperative outcomes after frail elderly preoperative assessment clinic: a single-institution Canadian perspective14. Selective opioid antagonists following bowel resection for prevention of postoperative ileus: a systematic review and meta-analysis15. Peer-to-peer coaching after bile duct injury16. Laparoscopic median arcuate ligament release: a video abstract17. Retroperitoneoscopic approach to adrenalectomy19. Endoscopic Zenker diverticulotomy: a video abstract20. Variability in surgeons’ perioperative management of pheochromocytomas in Canada21. The contribution of surgeon and hospital variation in transfusion practice to outcomes for patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal cancer surgery: a population-based analysis22. Perioperative transfusions for gastroesophageal cancers: risk factors and short- and long-term outcomes23. The association between frailty and time alive and at home after cancer surgery among older adults: a population-based analysis24. Psychological and workplace-related effects of providing surgical care during the COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia, Canada25. Safety of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a systematic review26. Complications and reintervention following laparoscopic subtotal cholecystectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis27. Synchronization of pupil dilations correlates with team performance in a simulated laparoscopic team coordination task28. Receptivity to and desired design features of a surgical peer coaching program: an international survey9. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rates of emergency department utilization due to general surgery conditions30. The impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic on the exposure of general surgery trainees to operative procedures31. Association between academic degrees and research productivity: an assessment of academic general surgeons in Canada32. Laparoscopic endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) for subepithelial gastric lesion: a video presentation33. Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on acute care general surgery at an academic Canadian centre34. Opioid-free analgesia after outpatient general surgery: a pilot randomized controlled trial35. Impact of neoadjuvant immunotherapy or targeted therapies on surgical resection in patients with solid tumours: a systematic review and meta-analysis37. Surgical data recording in the operating room: a systematic review of modalities and metrics38. Association between nonaccidental trauma and neighbourhood socioeconomic status during the COVID-19 pandemic: a retrospective analysis39. Laparoscopic repair of a transdiaphragmatic gastropleural fistula40. Video-based interviewing in medicine: a scoping review41. Indocyanine green fluorescence angiography for prevention of anastomotic leakage in colorectal surgery: a cost analysis from the hospital payer’s perspective43. Perception or reality: surgical resident and faculty assessments of resident workload compared with objective data45. When illness and loss hit close to home: Do health care providers learn how to cope?46. Remote video-based suturing education with smartphones (REVISE): a randomized controlled trial47. The evolving use of robotic surgery: a population-based analysis48. Prophylactic retromuscular mesh placement for parastomal hernia prevention: a retrospective cohort study of permanent colostomies and ileostomies49. Intracorporeal versus extracorporeal anastomosis in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy: a retrospective cohort study on anastomotic complications50. A lay of the land — a description of Canadian academic acute care surgery models51. Emergency general surgery in Ontario: interhospital variability in structures, processes and models of care52. Trauma 101: a virtual case-based trauma conference as an adjunct to medical education53. Assessment of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Surgical Risk Calculator for predicting patient-centred outcomes of emergency general surgery patients in a Canadian health care system54. Sustainability of a narcotic reduction initiative: 1 year following the Standardization of Outpatient Procedure (STOP) Narcotics Study55. Barriers to transanal endoscopic microsurgery referral56. Geospatial analysis of severely injured rural patients in a geographically complex landscape57. Implementation of an incentive spirometry protocol in a trauma ward: a single-centre pilot study58. Impostor phenomenon is a significant risk factor for burnout and anxiety in Canadian resident physicians: a cross-sectional survey59. Understanding the influence of perioperative education on performance among surgical trainees: a single-centre experience60. The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on current and future endoscopic personal protective equipment practices: a national survey of 77 endoscopists61. Case report: delayed presentation of perforated sigmoid diverticulitis as necrotizing infection of the lower limb62. Investigating disparities in surgical outcomes in Canadian Indigenous populations63. Fundoplication is superior to medical therapy for Barrett esophagus disease regression and progression: a systematic review and meta-analysis64. Development of a novel online general surgery learning platform and a qualitative preimplementation analysis65. Hagfish slime exudate as a potential novel hemostatic agent: developing a standardized assessment protocol66. The effect of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic on surgical oncology case volumes and wait times67. Safety of same-day discharge in high-risk patients undergoing ambulatory general surgery68. External validation of the Codman score in colorectal surgery: a pragmatic tool to drive quality improvement69. Improved morbidity and gastrointestinal restoration rates without compromising survival rates for diverting loop ileostomy with colonic lavage versus total abdominal colectomy for fulminant Clostridioides difficile colitis: a multicentre retrospective cohort study70. Potential access to emergency general surgical care in Ontario71. Immersive virtual reality (iVR) improves procedural duration, task completion and accuracy in surgical trainees: a systematic review01. Clinical validation of the Canada Lymph Node Score for endobronchial ultrasound02. Venous thromboembolism in surgically treated esophageal cancer patients: a provincial population-based study03. Venous thromboembolism in surgically treated lung cancer patients: a population-based study04. Is frailty associated with failure to rescue after esophagectomy? A multi-institutional comparative analysis of outcomes05. Routine systematic sampling versus targeted sampling of lymph nodes during endobronchial ultrasound: a feasibility randomized controlled trial06. Gastric ischemic conditioning reduces anastomotic complications in patients undergoing esophagectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis07. Move For Surgery, a novel preconditioning program to optimize health before thoracic surgery: a randomized controlled trial08. In case of emergency, go to your nearest emergency department — Or maybe not?09. Does preoperative SABR increase the risk of complications from lung cancer resection? A secondary analysis of the MISSILE trial10. Segmental resection for lung cancer: the added value of near-infrared fluorescence mapping diminishes with surgeon experience11. Toward competency-based continuing professional development for practising surgeons12. Stereotactic body radiotherapy versus surgery in older adults with NSCLC — a population-based, matched analysis of long-term dependency outcomes13. Role of adjuvant therapy in esophageal cancer patients after neoadjuvant therapy and curative esophagectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis14. Evaluation of population characteristics on the incidence of thoracic empyema: an ecological study15. Determining the optimal stiffness colour threshold and stiffness area ratio cut-off for mediastinal lymph node staging using EBUS elastography and AI: a pilot study16. Quality assurance on the use of sequential compression stockings in thoracic surgery (QUESTs)17. The relationship between fissureless technique and prolonged air leak for patients undergoing video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy18. CXCR2 inhibition as a candidate for immunomodulation in the treatment of K-RAS-driven lung adenocarcinoma19. Assessment tools for evaluating competency in video-assisted thoracoscopic lobectomy: a systematic review20. Understanding the current practice on chest tube management following lung resection among thoracic surgeons across Canada21. Effect of routine jejunostomy tube insertion in esophagectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis22. Recurrence of primary spontaneous pneumothorax following bullectomy with pleurodesis or pleurectomy: a retrospective analysis23. Surgical outcomes following chest wall resection and reconstruction24. Outcomes following surgical management of primary mediastinal nonseminomatous germ cell tumours25. Does robotic approach offer better nodal staging than thoracoscopic approach in anatomical resection for non–small cell lung cancer? A single-centre propensity matching analysis26. Competency assessment for mediastinal mass resection and thymectomy: design and Delphi process27. The contemporary significance of venous thromboembolism (deep venous thrombosis [DVT] and pulmonary embolus [PE]) in patients undergoing esophagectomy: a prospective, multicentre cohort study to evaluate the incidence and clinical outcomes of VTE after major esophageal resections28. Esophageal cancer: symptom severity at the end of life29. The impact of pulmonary artery reconstruction on postoperative and oncologic outcomes: a systematic review30. Association with surgical technique and recurrence after laparoscopic repair of paraesophageal hernia: a single-centre experience31. Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in esophagectomy32. Surgical treatment of esophageal cancer: trends in surgical approach and early mortality at a single institution over the past 18 years34. Adverse events and length of stay following minimally invasive surgery in paraesophageal hernia repair35. Long-term symptom control comparison of Dor and Nissen fundoplication following laparoscopic para-esophageal hernia repair: a retrospective analysis36. Willingness to pay: a survey of Canadian patients’ willingness to contribute to the cost of robotic thoracic surgery37. Radiomics in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma: a prediction tool for tumour immune microenvironments38. Effectiveness of intraoperative pyloric botox injection during esophagectomy: how often is endoscopic intervention required?39. An artificial intelligence algorithm for predicting lymph node malignancy during endobronchial ultrasound40. The effect of major and minor complications after lung surgery on length of stay and readmission41. Measuring cost of adverse events following thoracic surgery: a scoping review42. Laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair: characterization by hospital and surgeon volume and impact on outcomes43. NSQIP 5-Factor Modified Frailty Index predicts morbidity but not mortality after esophagectomy44. Trajectory of perioperative HRQOL and association with postoperative complications in thoracic surgery patients45. Variation in treatment patterns and outcomes for resected esophageal cancer at designated thoracic surgery centres46. Patient-reported pretreatment health-related quality of life (HRQOL) predicts short-term survival in esophageal cancer patients47. Analgesic efficacy of surgeon-placed paravertebral catheters compared with thoracic epidural analgesia after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy: a retrospective noninferiority study48. Rapid return to normal oxygenation after lung surgery49. Examination of local and systemic inflammatory changes during lung surgery01. Implications of near-infrared imaging and indocyanine green on anastomotic leaks following colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis02. Repeat preoperative endoscopy after regional implementation of electronic synoptic endoscopy reporting: a retrospective comparative study03. Consensus-derived quality indicators for operative reporting in transanal endoscopic surgery (TES)04. Colorectal lesion localization practices at endoscopy to facilitate surgical and endoscopic planning: recommendations from a national consensus Delphi process05. Black race is associated with increased mortality in colon cancer — a population-based and propensity-score matched analysis06. Improved survival in a cohort of patients 75 years and over with FIT-detected colorectal neoplasms07. Laparoscopic versus open loop ileostomy reversal: a systematic review and meta-analysis08. Posterior mesorectal thickness as a predictor of increased operative time in rectal cancer surgery: a retrospective cohort study09. Improvement of colonic anastomotic healing in mice with oral supplementation of oligosaccharides10. How can we better identify patients with rectal bleeding who are at high risk of colorectal cancer?11. Assessment of long-term bowel dysfunction in rectal cancer survivors: a population-based cohort study12. Observational versus antibiotic therapy for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis: a noninferiority meta-analysis based on a Delphi consensus13. Radiotherapy alone versus chemoradiotherapy for stage I anal squamous cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis14. Is the Hartmann procedure for diverticulitis obsolete? National trends in colectomy for diverticulitis in the emergency setting from 1993 to 201515. Sugammadex in colorectal surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis16. Sexuality and rectal cancer treatment: a qualitative study exploring patients’ information needs and expectations on sexual dysfunction after rectal cancer treatment17. Video-based interviews in selection process18. Impact of delaying colonoscopies during the COVID-19 pandemic on colorectal cancer detection and prevention19. Opioid use disorder associated with increased anastomotic leak and major complications after colorectal surgery20. Effectiveness of a rectal cancer education video on patient expectations21. Robotic-assisted rectosigmoid and rectal cancer resection: implementation and early experience at a Canadian tertiary centre22. An online educational app for rectal cancer survivors with low anterior resection syndrome: a pilot study23. The effects of surgeon specialization on the outcome of emergency colorectal surgery24. Outcomes after colorectal cancer resections in octogenarians and older in a regional New Zealand setting — What are the predictors of mortality?25. Long-term outcomes after seton placement for perianal fistulae with and without Crohn disease26. A survey of patient and surgeon preference for early ileostomy closure following restorative proctectomy for rectal cancer — Why aren’t we doing it?27. Crohn disease independently associated with longer hospital admission after surgery28. Short-stay (≤ 1 d) diverting loop ileostomy closure can be selectively implemented without an increase in readmission and complication rates: an ACS-NSQIP analysis29. A comparison of perineal stapled rectal prolapse resection and the Altemeier procedure at 2 Canadian academic hospitals30. Mental health and substance use disorders predict 90-day readmission and postoperative complications following rectal cancer surgery31. Early discharge after colorectal cancer resection: trends and impact on patient outcomes32. Oral antibiotics without mechanical bowel preparation prior to emergency colectomy reduces the risk of organ space surgical site infections: a NSQIP propensity score matched study33. The impact of robotic surgery on a tertiary care colorectal surgery program, an assessment of costs and short-term outcomes — a Canadian perspective34. Should we scope beyond the age limit of guidelines? Adenoma detection rates and outcomes of screening and surveillance colonoscopies in patients aged 75–79 years35. Emergency department admissions for uncomplicated diverticulitis: a nationwide study36. Obesity is associated with a complicated episode of acute diverticulitis: a nationwide study37. Green indocyanine angiography for low anterior resection in patients with rectal cancer: a prospective before-and-after study38. The impact of age on surgical recurrence of fibrostenotic ileocolic Crohn disease39. A qualitative study to explore the optimal timing and approach for the LARS discussion01. Racial, ethnic and socioeconomic disparities in diagnosis, treatment and survival of patients with breast cancer: a SEER-based population analysis02. First-line palliative chemotherapy for esophageal and gastric cancer: practice patterns and outcomes in the general population03. Frailty as a predictor for postoperative outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy04. Synoptic electronic operative reports identify practice variation in cancer surgery allowing for directed interventions to decrease variation05. The role of Hedgehog signalling in basal-like breast cancer07. Clinical and patient-reported outcomes in oncoplastic breast conservation surgery from a single surgeon’s practice in a busy community hospital in Canada08. Upgrade rate of atypical ductal hyperplasia: 10 years of experience and predictive factors09. Time to first adjuvant treatment after oncoplastic breast reduction10. Preparing to survive: improving outcomes for young women with breast cancer11. Opioid prescription and consumption in patients undergoing outpatient breast surgery — baseline data for a quality improvement initiative12. Rectal anastomosis and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Should we avoid diverting loop ileostomy?13. Delays in operative management of early-stage, estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic — a multi-institutional matched historical cohort study14. Opioid prescribing practices in breast oncologic surgery15. Oncoplastic breast reduction (OBR) complications and patient-reported outcomes16. De-escalating breast cancer surgery: Should we apply quality indicators from other jurisdictions in Canada?17. The breast cancer patient experience of telemedicine during COVID-1918. A novel ex vivo human peritoneal model to investigate mechanisms of peritoneal metastasis in gastric adenocarcinoma (GCa)19. Preliminary uptake and outcomes utilizing the BREAST-Q patient-reported outcomes questionnaire in patients following breast cancer surgery20. Routine elastin staining improves detection of venous invasion and enhances prognostication in resected colorectal cancer21. Analysis of exhaled volatile organic compounds: a new frontier in colon cancer screening and surveillance22. A clinical pathway for radical cystectomy leads to a shorter hospital stay and decreases 30-day postoperative complications: a NSQIP analysis23. Fertility preservation in young breast cancer patients: a population-based study24. Investigating factors associated with postmastectomy unplanned emergency department visits: a population-based analysis25. Impact of patient, tumour and treatment factors on psychosocial outcomes after treatment in women with invasive breast cancer26. The relationship between breast and axillary pathologic complete response in women receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer01. The association between bacterobilia and the risk of postoperative complications following pancreaticoduodenectomy02. Surgical outcome and quality of life following exercise-based prehabilitation for hepatobiliary surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis03. Does intraoperative frozen section and revision of margins lead to improved survival in patients undergoing resection of perihilar cholangiocarcinoma? A systematic review and meta-analysis04. Prolonged kidney procurement time is associated with worse graft survival after transplantation05. Venous thromboembolism following hepatectomy for colorectal metastases: a population-based retrospective cohort study06. Association between resection approach and transfusion exposure in liver resection for gastrointestinal cancer07. The association between surgeon volume and use of laparoscopic liver resection for gastrointestinal cancer08. Immune suppression through TIGIT in colorectal cancer liver metastases09. “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts” — a combined strategy to reduce postoperative pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy10. Laparoscopic versus open synchronous colorectal and hepatic resection for metastatic colorectal cancer11. Identifying prognostic factors for overall survival in patients with recurrent disease following liver resection for colorectal cancer metastasis12. Modified Blumgart pancreatojejunostomy with external stenting in laparoscopic Whipple reconstruction13. Laparoscopic versus open pancreaticoduodenectomy: a single centre’s initial experience with introduction of a novel surgical approach14. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy versus upfront surgery for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: a single-centre cohort analysis15. Thermal ablation and telemedicine to reduce resource utilization during the COVID-19 pandemic16. Cost-utility analysis of normothermic machine perfusion compared with static cold storage in liver transplantation in the Canadian setting17. Impact of adjuvant therapy on overall survival in early-stage ampullary cancers: a single-centre retrospective review18. Presence of biliary anaerobes enhances response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma19. How does tumour viability influence the predictive capability of the Metroticket model? Comparing predicted-to-observed 5-year survival after liver transplant for hepatocellular carcinoma20. Does caudate resection improve outcomes in patients undergoing curative resection for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma? A systematic review and meta-analysis21. Appraisal of multivariable prognostic models for postoperative liver decompensation following partial hepatectomy: a systematic review22. Predictors of postoperative liver decompensation events following resection in patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma: a population-based study23. Characteristics of bacteriobilia and impact on outcomes after Whipple procedure01. Inverting the y-axis: the future of MIS abdominal wall reconstruction is upside down02. Progressive preoperative pneumoperitoneum: a single-centre retrospective study03. The role of radiologic classification of parastomal hernia as a predictor of the need for surgical hernia repair: a retrospective cohort study04. Comparison of 2 fascial defect closure methods for laparoscopic incisional hernia repair01. Hypoalbuminemia predicts serious complications following elective bariatric surgery02. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric band migration inducing jejunal obstruction associated with acute pancreatitis: aurgical approach of band removal03. Can visceral adipose tissue gene expression determine metabolic outcomes after bariatric surgery?04. Improvement of kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease and severe obesity after bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis05. A prediction model for delayed discharge following gastric bypass surgery06. Experiences and outcomes of Indigenous patients undergoing bariatric surgery: a mixed-methods scoping review07. What is the optimal common channel length in revisional bariatric surgery?08. Laparoscopic management of internal hernia in a 34-week pregnant woman09. Characterizing timing of postoperative complications following elective Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy10. Canadian trends in bariatric surgery11. Common surgical stapler problems and how to correct them12. Management of choledocholithiasis following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Can J Surg 2021; 64:S80-S159. [PMID: 35483046 PMCID: PMC8677574 DOI: 10.1503/cjs.021321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Anticipating the future: prognostic tools as a complementary strategy to improve care for patients with febrile illnesses in resource-limited settings. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-006057. [PMID: 34330761 PMCID: PMC8327814 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In low-income and middle-income countries, most patients with febrile illnesses present to peripheral levels of the health system where diagnostic capacity is very limited. In these contexts, accurate risk stratification can be particularly impactful, helping to guide allocation of scarce resources to ensure timely and tailored care. However, reporting of prognostic research is often imprecise and few prognostic tests or algorithms are translated into clinical practice. Here, we review the often-conflated concepts of prognosis and diagnosis, with a focus on patients with febrile illnesses. Drawing on a recent global stakeholder consultation, we apply these concepts to propose three use-cases for prognostic tools in the management of febrile illnesses in resource-limited settings: (1) guiding referrals from the community to higher-level care; (2) informing resource allocation for patients admitted to hospital and (3) identifying patients who may benefit from closer follow-up post-hospital discharge. We explore the practical implications for new technologies and reflect on the challenges and knowledge gaps that must be addressed before this approach could be incorporated into routine care settings. Our intention is that these use-cases, alongside other recent initiatives, will help to promote a harmonised yet contextualised approach for prognostic research in febrile illness. We argue that this is especially important given the heterogeneous settings in which care is often provided for patients with febrile illnesses living in low-income and middle-income countries.
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Microbiological surveillance of endoscopes and implications for current reprocessing procedures adopted by an Italian teaching hospital. ANNALI DI IGIENE : MEDICINA PREVENTIVA E DI COMUNITA 2021; 32:166-177. [PMID: 31944211 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2020.2340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospital acquired infections have been associated with the contamination of flexible endoscopes caused by a failure of the reprocessing procedure. Microbiological surveillance of endoscope reprocessing is valuable for assessing contamination by pathogens. The aim of this study is to evaluate microbiological contamination of endoscopes after reprocessing, and the involvement of reprocessing procedures adopted in endoscopy units of an Italian teaching-hospital. METHODS The study was carried out, on several dates in 2014, in 11 endoscopic operation units equipped with 100 endoscopes (18 bronchoscopes, 41 gastroduodenoscopes, 29 colonoscopes, 12 laryngoscopes) and 9 Automated Endoscope Reprocessors. Presence/absence of common pathogens and indicator micro-organisms (including multi-drug resistant bacteria) and Total Microbiological Count (TMC) were obtained from the biopsy channels of endoscopes after reprocessing, from final rinse water of automated endoscope reprocessors and from tap water applying standard microbiological culture methods. Following the European Guidelines for quality assurance in reprocessing, the post-reprocessing criteria were "absence of indicator micro-organisms and absence of TMC in samples obtained from endoscopes' channels". RESULTS A total of 180 samples were collected (143 endoscopes, 25 Automated Endoscope Reprocessors and 12 water supply). Compliance to the European Guidelines was achieved for 112 out of the 180 (62.2%) samples analyzed. Presence of indicator micro-organisms (mainly Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Gram-negative non-fermenting bacteria) was found in 51 out of 143 endoscopes (35.7%). Multi-drug resistant bacteria were also found. Presence of pathogen micro-organisms was statistically associated with the increase of TMC level, but not with time after reprocessing. CONCLUSION The study provides information about the microbiological quality of endoscope reprocessing procedures adopted by different endoscopic operation units. The high prevalence of contaminated endoscopes provides evidence of the need to improve the quality of reprocessing.
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Prioritising pathogens for the management of severe febrile patients to improve clinical care in low- and middle-income countries. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:117. [PMID: 32041536 PMCID: PMC7011354 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-4834-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe febrile illness without a known source (SFWS) is a challenge for clinicians when deciding how to manage a patient, particularly given the wide spectrum of potential aetiologies that contribute to fever. These infections are difficult to distinguish clinically, and accurate diagnosis requires a plethora of diagnostics including blood cultures, imaging techniques, molecular or serological tests, and more. When laboratory services are available, a limited test menu hinders clinical decision-making and antimicrobial stewardship, leading to empiric treatment and suboptimal patient outcomes. To specifically address SFWS, this work aimed to identify priority pathogens for a globally applicable panel for fever causing pathogens. Method A pragmatic two-pronged approach combining currently available scientific data in an analytical hierarchy process and systematically gathered expert input, was designed to address the lack of comprehensive global aetiology data. The expert re-ranked list was then further adapted for a specific use case to focus on community acquired infections in whole blood specimens. The resulting list was further analysed to address different geographical regions (Asia, Africa, and Latin America), and Cohen kappa scores of agreement were calculated. Results The expert ranked prioritized pathogen list generated as part of this two-pronged approach included typhoidal Salmonella, Plasmodium species and Mycobacterium tuberculosis as the top 3 pathogens. This pathogen list was then further adapted for the SFWS use case to develop a final pathogen list to inform product development. Subsequent analysis comparing the relevance of the SFWS pathogen list to multiple populations and geographical regions showed that the SFWS prioritized list had considerable utility across Africa and Asia, but less so for Latin America. In addition, the list showed high levels of agreement across different patient sub-populations, but lower relevance for neonates and symptomatic HIV patients. Conclusion This work highlighted once again the challenges of prioritising in global health, but it also shows that taking a two-pronged approach, combining available prevalence data with expert input, can result in a broadly applicable priority list. This comprehensive utility is particularly important in the context of product development, where a sufficient market size is essential to achieve a sustainable commercialized diagnostic product to address SFWS.
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Gonorrhea in the era of AMR, diagnostic needs for improved antimicrobial stewardship in low and middle income countries. Int J Infect Dis 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2020.09.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Developing target product profiles for Neisseria gonorrhoeae diagnostics in the context of antimicrobial resistance: An expert consensus. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237424. [PMID: 32870912 PMCID: PMC7462286 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for a rapid diagnostic point of care test to detect Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection to prevent incorrect, lack or excess of treatment resulting from current syndromic management in low-resource settings. An assay to identify NG antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is also highly desirable to facilitate antibiotic stewardship. Here we describe the development of two target product profiles (TPPs): one for a test for etiological diagnosis of NG and Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) (TPP1) and one for the detection of NG AMR/susceptibility (TPP2). METHODS Draft TPPs were initially developed based on a landscape analysis of existing diagnostics and expert input. TPPs were refined via an online Delphi survey with two rounds of input from 68 respondents. TPP characteristics on which <75% of non-industry respondents agreed were further discussed and revised by an expert working group. RESULTS The need for a test to identify NG in patients with urethral or vaginal discharge was identified as a minimal requirement of TPP1, with a test that can diagnose NG in asymptomatic patients as the optimal requirement. A sensitivity of 80% was considered acceptable, either in context of syndromic management or screening high-risk populations. For TPP2, the agreed minimal requirement was for a test to be used at level 2 healthcare facilities and above, with an optimal requirement of level 1 or above. A lateral flow format was preferred for TPP1, while it was considered likely that TPP2 would require a molecular format. A total of 31 test characteristics were included in TPP1 and 27 in TPP2. CONCLUSIONS Following the working group revisions, TPPs were posted online for public feedback for two months, and are now finalized. The final TPPs are currently guiding the development of new diagnostics that meet the defined characteristics to reach the market within two years.
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AOtools: a Python package for adaptive optics modelling and analysis. OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 27:31316-31329. [PMID: 31684366 DOI: 10.1364/oe.27.031316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
AOtools is a Python package that is open-source and aimed at providing tools for adaptive optics users and researchers. We present version 1.0, which contains tools for adaptive optics processing, including analysing data in the pupil plane, images and point spread functions in the focal plane, wavefront sensors, modelling of atmospheric turbulence, physical optical propagation of wavefronts, and conversion between frequently used adaptive optics and astronomical units. The main drivers behind AOtools is that it should be easy to install and use. To achieve this the project features extensive documentation, automated unit testing and is registered on the Python Package Index. AOtools is under continuous active development to expand the features available, and we encourage everyone involved in adaptive optics to become involved and contribute to the project.
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Assays for estimating HIV incidence: updated global market assessment and estimated economic value. J Int AIDS Soc 2018; 20. [PMID: 29165892 PMCID: PMC5810336 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.25018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Accurate incidence estimates are needed to characterize the HIV epidemic and guide prevention efforts. HIV Incidence assays are cost‐effective laboratory assays that provide incidence estimates from cross‐sectional surveys. We conducted a global market assessment of HIV incidence assays under three market scenarios and estimated the economic value of improved incidence assays. Methods We interviewed 27 stakeholders, and reviewed journal articles, working group proceedings, and manufacturers’ sales figures. We determined HIV incidence assay use in 2014, and estimated use in 2015 to 2017 and in 5 to 10‐years under three market scenarios, as well as the cost of conducting national and key population surveys using an HIV incidence assay with improved performance. Results Global 2014 HIV incidence assay use was 308,900 tests, highest in Asia and mostly for case‐ and population‐based surveillance. Estimated 2015 to 2017 use was 94,475 annually, with declines due to China and the United States discontinuing incidence assay use for domestic surveillance. Annual projected 5 to 10 year use under scenario 1 – no change in technology – was 94,475. For scenario 2 – a moderately improved incidence assay – projected annual use was 286,031. Projected annual use for scenario 3 – game‐changing technologies with an HIV incidence assay part of (a) standard confirmatory testing, and (b) standard rapid testing, were 500,000 and 180 million, respectively. As HIV incidence assay precision increases, decreased sample sizes required for incidence estimation resulted in $5 to 23 million annual reductions in survey costs and easily offset the approximately $3 million required to develop a new assay. Conclusions Improved HIV incidence assays could substantially reduce HIV incidence estimation costs. Continued development of HIV incidence assays with improved performance is required to realize these cost benefits.
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Proactive Interference in Short-Term Memory as a Function of Prior-Item Retention Interval. Q J Exp Psychol (Hove) 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/00335557043000078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The experiment was conducted to examine the effect of prior-item retention interval on the retention of a given item in a short-term memory test series. There were five conditions. The retention interval for the fifth test of five successive tests was 15 sec. for all five conditions. The retention intervals for tests 1–4 were constant for a condition but varied across conditions. These retention intervals were 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 sec. Five consonant trigrams constructed from the set of letters sharing the vowel sound “e” were used for all conditions. Recall on test 5 was a direct function of prior-item retention interval. The data indicate, therefore, that the availability of prior items for proactive interference is an inverse function of prior-item retention interval.
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Librarians as Teachers: Forming a Learning and Teaching Community of Practice. JOURNAL OF THE AUSTRALIAN LIBRARY AND INFORMATION ASSOCIATION 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/24750158.2017.1328633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Is VMAT beneficial for patients undergoing radiotherapy to the head and neck? Radiography (Lond) 2016; 23:73-76. [PMID: 28290344 DOI: 10.1016/j.radi.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Volumetric Intensity-Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) offers solutions to the time consuming, higher monitor unit (MU) delivery of Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) for patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC). Thus the aim was to determine whether VMAT would be beneficial for these patients. The majority of literature was planning comparative studies with only two studies on early clinical experience. Main themes arising from literature were conformity and homogeneity, organs at risk (OAR), MU and delivery time. VMAT provides plans with similar conformity, better homogeneity and results for improved sparing of OAR compared to IMRT. Thus it is clear that VMAT would be able to match the performance of IMRT plans, with the ability to treat patients in a short space of time and less MU. There is little clinical data on the side effects of VMAT, and more is needed to further evaluate the efficacy of VMAT. Overall these are encouraging results of VMAT for patients with HNC.
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Long‐term Telemetric Blood Pressure Measurement in a Translational Model of Non‐human Primate Spontaneous Hypertension. FASEB J 2015. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.29.1_supplement.967.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Spontaneous Hypertension and Cardiorenal Pathologies in the African Green Monkey. FASEB J 2015. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.29.1_supplement.960.16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Features and organization of Pain Centers in the Lazio Region, Italy, in 2011. ANNALI DI IGIENE : MEDICINA PREVENTIVA E DI COMUNITA 2014; 26:367-79. [PMID: 25001126 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2014.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on pain management highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in order to achieve optimal therapeutic results. Such programs can be guaranteed by the Centers for Pain Management (CPMs), in which multidisciplinary teams are able to provide advanced and specialized activities for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of chronic benign pain. To date, information related to healthcare supply and the organizational structure of these centers in Italy is incomplete. The aim of this paper was to provide an overview of the healthcare network of the CPMs in the Lazio region. METHODS A descriptive survey was conducted in all the 37 CPMs existing in the Lazio region in 2011 of which 28 participated. RESULTS CPMs were located either in Universities or in public or private hospital facilities. They included a clinic, a Day Hospital service, Day surgery and day-beds. CPMs were managed by anaesthesiologists who, in most instances, did not work in a multidisciplinary team. The number of other health professionals available, such as nurses, psychologists and physiotherapists, was limited. CPMs mainly provided drug therapy, Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) and complex interventional treatments. The median waiting time was 30 days. The clinics were not homogeneously distributed in the region with a higher concentration in Rome (56%), followed by other provinces of the Lazio region (26%) and the province of Rome (18%). Clearly, Rome was the city which offered the greatest range of healthcare services and the highest number of consultations with patients, which significantly differed from those of the other areas (χ²=19.6 p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS In 2011, the availability of CPMs was not equally distributed throughout the territory, and there was an over-utilization of the facilities in Rome and an under-utilization in the provincial areas. Moreover, this study showed a lack of a multi-professional approach to chronic pain management.
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Leptonic-decay-constant ratio f(K+)/f(π+) from lattice QCD with physical light quarks. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2013; 110:172003. [PMID: 23679710 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.110.172003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
A calculation of the ratio of leptonic decay constants f(K+)/f(π+) makes possible a precise determination of the ratio of Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa (CKM) matrix elements |V(us)|/|V(ud)| in the standard model, and places a stringent constraint on the scale of new physics that would lead to deviations from unitarity in the first row of the CKM matrix. We compute f(K+)/f(π+) numerically in unquenched lattice QCD using gauge-field ensembles recently generated that include four flavors of dynamical quarks: up, down, strange, and charm. We analyze data at four lattice spacings a ≈ 0.06, 0.09, 0.12, and 0.15 fm with simulated pion masses down to the physical value 135 MeV. We obtain f(K+)/f(π+) = 1.1947(26)(37), where the errors are statistical and total systematic, respectively. This is our first physics result from our N(f) = 2+1+1 ensembles, and the first calculation of f(K+)/f(π+) from lattice-QCD simulations at the physical point. Our result is the most precise lattice-QCD determination of f(K+)/f(π+), with an error comparable to the current world average. When combined with experimental measurements of the leptonic branching fractions, it leads to a precise determination of |V(us)|/|V(ud)| = 0.2309(9)(4) where the errors are theoretical and experimental, respectively.
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Systematic review: gastric cancer incidence in pernicious anaemia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2013; 37:375-82. [PMID: 23216458 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Revised: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 11/16/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pernicious anaemia (PA) has an increased risk for gastric cancer (GC). It is not established whether PA patients need to undergo endoscopic/histological follow-up. AIM To provide a systematic overview of the literature on PA and the development of gastric cancer, to estimate the gastric cancer incidence-rate. METHODS According to PRISMA, we identified studies on PA patients reporting the incidence of gastric cancer. Quality of studies was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Meta-analysis on annual gastric cancer incidence rates was performed. RESULTS Twenty-seven studies met eligibility criteria. 7 studies were of high, 6 of medium, 10 of low and 4 of very low quality. Gastric cancer incidence-rates ranged from 0% to 0.2% per person-years in 7 American, from 0% to 0.5% in 2 Asiatic, from 0% to 1.2% in 11 Northern European studies and from 0% to 0.9% in 7 studies from other European countries. The incidence-rates of gastric cancer ranged from 0% to 1.2% per person-years in studies which used gastroscopy, from 0.1% to 0.9% in those based on International Classification of Disease. Heterogeneity between studies was not statistically significant at the 5% level (Chi-squared test = 17.9, P = 0.08). The calculated pooled gastric cancer incidence-rate was 0.27% per person-years. Meta-analysis showed overall gastric cancer relative risk in PA as 6.8 (95% CI: 2.6-18.1). CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows a pooled gastric cancer incidence-rate in pernicious anaemia of 0.27% per person-years and an estimated nearly sevenfold relative risk of gastric cancer in pernicious anaemia patients. Further high quality studies are needed to confirm this higher risk.
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The influence of esomeprazole and cisapride on gastroesophageal reflux during anesthesia in dogs. J Vet Intern Med 2012; 26:518-25. [PMID: 22489656 DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2012.00929.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2011] [Revised: 01/21/2012] [Accepted: 03/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in anesthetized dogs and can cause esophagitis, esophageal stricture, and aspiration pneumonia. OBJECTIVE To determine whether preanesthetic IV administration of esomeprazole alone or esomeprazole and cisapride increases esophageal pH and decreases the frequency of GER in anesthetized dogs using combined multichannel impedance and pH monitoring. ANIMALS Sixty-one healthy dogs undergoing elective orthopedic surgery procedures. METHODS Prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Dogs were randomized to receive IV saline (0.9% NaCl), esomeprazole (1 mg/kg) alone, or a combination of esomeprazole (1 mg/kg) and cisapride (1 mg/kg) 12-18 hours and 1-1.5 hours before anesthetic induction. An esophageal pH/impedance probe was utilized to measure esophageal pH and detect GER. RESULTS Eight of 21 dogs in the placebo group (38.1%), 8 of 22 dogs in the esomeprazole group (36%), and 2 of 18 dogs in the combined esomeprazole and cisapride group (11%) had ≥ 1 episode of GER on impedance testing during anesthesia (P < .05). Esomeprazole was associated with a significant increase in gastric and esophageal pH (P = .001), but the drug did not significantly decrease the frequency of GER (P = .955). Concurrent administration of cisapride was associated with a significant decrease in the number of reflux events (RE) compared to the placebo and esomeprazole groups (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Preanesthetic administration of cisapride and esomeprazole decreases the number of RE in anesthetized dogs, but administration of esomeprazole alone was associated with nonacid and weakly acidic reflux in all but 1 dog.
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Progress toward multiplexed sample-to-result detection in low resource settings using microfluidic immunoassay cards. LAB ON A CHIP 2012; 12:1119-27. [PMID: 22311085 DOI: 10.1039/c2lc20751f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
In many low resource settings multiple diseases are endemic. There is a need for appropriate multi-analyte diagnostics capable of differentiating between diseases that cause similar clinical symptoms. The work presented here was part of a larger effort to develop a microfluidic point-of-care system, the DxBox, for sample-to-result differential diagnosis of infections that present with high rapid-onset fever. Here we describe a platform that detects disease-specific antigens and IgM antibodies. The disposable microfluidic cards are based on a flow-through membrane immunoassay carried out on porous nitrocellulose, which provides rapid diffusion for short assay times and a high surface area for visual detection of colored assay spots. Fluid motion and on-card valves were driven by a pneumatic system and we present designs for using pneumatic control to carry out assay functions. Pneumatic actuation, while having the potential advantage of inexpensive and robust hardware, introduced bubbles that interfered with fluidic control and affected assay results. The cards performed all sample preparation steps including plasma filtration from whole blood, sample and reagent aliquoting for the two parallel assays, sample dilution, and IgG removal for the IgM assays. We demonstrated the system for detection of the malarial pfHRPII antigen (spiked) and IgM antibodies to Salmonella Typhi LPS (patient plasma samples). All reagents were stored on card in dry form; only the sample and buffer were required to run the tests. Here we detail the development of this platform and discuss its strengths and weaknesses.
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Posters * Safety & Quality (I.E. Guidelines, Multiple Pregnancy, Outcome, Follow-Up etc.). Hum Reprod 2010. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/de.25.s1.310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrophic gastritis, involving the gastric body mucosa, predisposes to gastric neoplastic lesions (GNL). However, regular gastroscopic-histological follow-up for GNL is not recommended for patients with atrophic gastritis. AIM To evaluate risk factors for the progression to GNL in a cohort of patients with atrophic gastritis. METHODS A total of 300 patients with atrophic gastritis [205 women, aged 54 (18-78) years] underwent gastroscopy with six gastric antrum and body biopsies. All patients had at least one follow-up gastroscopy/histology at an interval of at least 1 year after the atrophic gastritis diagnosis. Baseline clinical and histological features were analysed as risk factors for the development of GNL by Cox-regression. RESULTS During a median follow-up of 4.3 (1-16.5) years, 15 GNL were detected in 14 of the 300 patients with atrophic gastritis: three were gastric cancer, whereas 12 were non-invasive neoplasia. The annual incidence for GNL was 1%. Cox-regression analysis identified the following risk factors: age over 50 years (HR 8.8, 95%CI 1.2-68.4), atrophic pangastritis (HR 4.5, 95% CI 1.5-14.1) and severe intestinal metaplasia in the gastric body (HR 4.0, 95% CI 1.3-11.8). CONCLUSIONS Atrophic pangastritis, severe body intestinal metaplasia and/or age over 50 years increase the risk for developing GNL in patients with atrophic gastritis. In this subset of patients, an endoscopic-histological follow-up for GNL surveillance may be worthwhile.
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Abstract
The detrimental effect of biofilms on skin friction for near wall flows is well known. The diatom genera Gomphonema and Tabellaria dominated the biofilm mat in the freshwater open channels of the Tarraleah Hydropower Scheme in Tasmania, Australia. A multi-faceted approach was adopted to investigate the drag penalty for biofouled 1.0 m x 0.6 m test plates which incorporated species identification, drag measurement in a recirculating water tunnel and surface characterisation using close-range photogrammetry. Increases in total drag coefficient of up to 99% were measured over clean surface values for biofouled test plates incubated under flow conditions in a hydropower canal. The effective roughness of the biofouled surfaces was found to be larger than the physical roughness; the additional energy dissipation was caused in part by the vibration of the biofilms in three-dimensions under flow conditions. The data indicate that there was a roughly linear relationship between the maximum peak-to-valley height of a biofilm and the total drag coefficient.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of not referring sub-centimetre polyps identified at CT colonography upon the efficacy of colorectal cancer screening remains uncertain. AIM To determine the distribution of advanced neoplasia according to polyp size in a screening setting. METHODS Published studies reporting the distribution of advanced adenomas in asymptomatic screening cohorts according to polyp size were identified by MEDLINE and EMBASE searches. Predefined outputs were the screening rates of advanced adenomas represented by diminutive (< or =5 mm), small (6-9 mm), sub-centimetre (<10 mm) and large (> or =10 mm) polyp sizes. RESULTS Data from four studies with 20 562 screening subjects met the primary inclusion criteria. Advanced adenomas were detected in 1155 (5.6%) subjects (95% CI = 5.3-5.9), corresponding to diminutive, small and large polyps in 4.6% (95% CI = 3.4-5.8), 7.9% (95% CI = 6.3-9.4) and 87.5% (95% CI = 86-89.4) of cases respectively. The frequency of advanced lesions among patients whose largest polyp was diminutive, small, sub-centimetre and large in size was 0.9%, 4.9%, 1.7% and 73.5% respectively. CONCLUSIONS Based on this systematic review, a 6-mm polyp size threshold for polypectomy referral would identify over 95% of subjects with advanced adenomas, whereas a 10-mm threshold would identify 88% of cases.
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Integrative mechanisms of blood pressure regulation in humans and rats: cross-species similarities. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2010; 298:R755-9. [PMID: 20071610 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00607.2009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
As our understanding of the importance of individualized medicine continues to grow, the clinical relevance of interindividual variability in hemodynamic variables is receiving increasing attention. However, it is not known whether the rat, which is often used for studies of cardiovascular regulation, exhibits similar interindividual variability. In the present study, we evaluated whether the magnitude of interindividual variability in cardiac output (CO) and total peripheral resistance (TPR) was similar in humans and in rats. We assessed interindividual variability of mean arterial pressure (MAP), CO, and TPR during control conditions in normotensive humans (n = 40) and during normotension and deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension in Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 16). Humans and rats showed marked interindividual variability in CO and TPR but low variability in MAP. During deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt hypertension, CO was maintained, but TPR was elevated compared with the baseline period. We conclude that the magnitudes of interindividual variability of MAP, CO, and TPR are quantitatively similar in humans and rats, providing support for the relevance of this variability in both species and suggesting that studies in rats could be designed to address questions specific to individualized medicine in hypertension.
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Systematic review: distribution of advanced neoplasia according to polyp size at screening colonoscopy. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2009. [PMID: 19814745 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.04160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of not referring sub-centimetre polyps identified at CT colonography upon the efficacy of colorectal cancer screening remains uncertain. AIM To determine the distribution of advanced neoplasia according to polyp size in a screening setting. METHODS Published studies reporting the distribution of advanced adenomas in asymptomatic screening cohorts according to polyp size were identified by MEDLINE and EMBASE searches. Predefined outputs were the screening rates of advanced adenomas represented by diminutive (< or =5 mm), small (6-9 mm), sub-centimetre (<10 mm) and large (> or =10 mm) polyp sizes. RESULTS Data from four studies with 20 562 screening subjects met the primary inclusion criteria. Advanced adenomas were detected in 1155 (5.6%) subjects (95% CI = 5.3-5.9), corresponding to diminutive, small and large polyps in 4.6% (95% CI = 3.4-5.8), 7.9% (95% CI = 6.3-9.4) and 87.5% (95% CI = 86-89.4) of cases respectively. The frequency of advanced lesions among patients whose largest polyp was diminutive, small, sub-centimetre and large in size was 0.9%, 4.9%, 1.7% and 73.5% respectively. CONCLUSIONS Based on this systematic review, a 6-mm polyp size threshold for polypectomy referral would identify over 95% of subjects with advanced adenomas, whereas a 10-mm threshold would identify 88% of cases.
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Epidemiology of Herpes Simplex Virus Infection in Pregnancy: A Pilot Study. EUR J INFLAMM 2009. [DOI: 10.1177/1721727x0900700306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted viral diseases worldwide. HSV type 2 causes most genital herpes and HSV type 1 is usually transmitted via non-sexual contacts. We studied 109 pregnant women between January 2007 and December 2008, in relation to their age, condom use, number of sexual partners, age at first intercourse, parity and smoking habits. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of HSV cervical infection and HSV co-infection with other genital microorganisms associated with poor neonatal outcome. Our results show that of the 109 outpatients enrolled, 30% were HSV1 and/or HSV2 positive, of whom 30% were infected with both HSV1 and HSV2, 18% were infected with HSV1 alone and 52% with HSV2 alone. A significant association between HSV1 and HSV2 infection was found, and the prevalence of HSV2 infection in women infected with HSV1 was 63%. The prevalence of HSV1/2 varied in the presence of other vaginal microorganisms but a statistical significant association was not found. This pilot study is probably too small to obtain statistically significant results. Nevertheless, using these observed results, we calculated that about 530 patients with comparable features should be enrolled to detect an increase of 50% in HSV infection due to the presence of other genital infections and potential risk factors.
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High efficacy of bismuth subcitrate for Helicobacter pylori eradication in pangastritis. Dig Liver Dis 2009; 41:555-8. [PMID: 19179127 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2008.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2008] [Revised: 10/04/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of gastritis patterns in Helicobacter pylori eradication rates has been poorly investigated. AIMS To compare the efficacy of bismuth or proton pump inhibitors triple therapy for H. pylori eradication in pangastritis. PATIENTS AND METHODS One hundred and eight patients with pangastritis were assigned to either lansoprazole 30 mg once a day (n=54) or bismuth 240 mg bis in die (n=54) for 14 days combined, for the first week, with amoxicillin 1g plus metronidazole 250 mg tris in die. Eradication was confirmed by (13)C-urea breath test. RESULTS With bismuth, successful eradication was observed in 75.9% (41/54) in the intention-to-treat analysis and 78.8% (41/52) in the per-protocol analysis. With lansoprazole, the eradication rates were respectively 46.3% (25/54) and 51.0% (25/49). Bismuth had a significant higher efficacy according to both intention-to-treat analysis (p=0.0029) and per-protocol analysis (p=0.0038) with OR of 3.66 (95% CI: 1.61-8.32) and 3.58 (95% CI: 1.50-8.54) respectively. At regression analysis, the only independent variable affecting eradication was the type of regimen (p=0.026) with an OR of 3.31 (95% CI: 1.16-9.44). CONCLUSIONS In pangastritis patients, bismuth is more effective than PPI in first-line eradication. For improving the overall eradication rates, an evaluation of gastritis extent might need to be considered.
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Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones But Pictures Really Hurt Me. Neuroimage 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1053-8119(09)70629-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Offset analgesia is mediated by activation in the region of the periaqueductal grey and rostral ventromedial medulla. Neuroimage 2009; 47:1002-6. [PMID: 19375510 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2008] [Revised: 04/06/2009] [Accepted: 04/07/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Interrupting a continuous noxious heat by a greater noxious heat causes rapid and disproportionate pain reduction when the original noxious heat returns. This reduction in pain experience, known as offset analgesia, is believed to be the consequence of active descending inhibitory control of pain originating in the periaqueductal grey (PAG) and rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). To test this possibility, brain activation was measured using fMRI in twelve healthy controls during an offset procedure. Each subject experienced six second periods of noxious heat followed by an equal period of more intense heat before returning to the original temperature for a further 6 s. Subjects were also scanned during control trials involving continuous, unchanging, noxious heat for 18 s or involving 6 s of noxious heat followed by an equal period of more intense heat before returning to the non-noxious baseline for a further 6 s. Brain activation during the final 6 s of each trial was compared with activation during the first 6 s and this difference was contrasted across trials. PAG/RVM activation was observed during the final 6 s of offset trials but not during either of the control trials and this difference across trials was significant. Activation throughout the pain neuromatrix was inhibited during the final 6 s of the offset trials and was comparable to the activation observed when the heat returned to a non-noxious baseline. These findings provide strong evidence that offset analgesia engages an endogenous inhibitory mechanism originating in the PAG/RVM region, which inhibits pain experience and activation of the pain neuromatrix.
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Virulence Traits in Escherichia Coli Strains Isolated from Outpatients with Urinary Tract Infections. Int J Immunopathol Pharmacol 2008; 21:715-23. [DOI: 10.1177/039463200802100326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to characterize phenotypic and genotypic virulence traits in Escherichia coli strains, isolated from outpatients with urinary tract infections, comparing with those obtained from inpatients. Information on the pathogenic behavior of the uropathogenic strains was obtained by monitoring different biological properties, such as autoagglutination, hemagglutination, adhesiveness to and invasion of human bladder (HT1376) cells, biofilm formation, phylogenetic grouping, and virulence-related genes. The results show similar behavior in the two groups concerning autoagglutination, hemagglutination, and biofilm formation. None of the strains examined was invasive. However, in strains from outpatients there was an increased adhesion to HT1376 cells compared with clinical strains, a significant higher presence of genes codifying for adhesins and cell protection factors, and a lower proportion of strains belonging to B1 group. These findings add further information on the pathogenic traits of community E. coli, since strains isolated from the outpatients' group were differently “armed” in comparison with those of clinical cases, and more suitable to infect healthy individuals.
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Low-risk HLA genotype in Type 1 diabetes is associated with less destruction of pancreatic B-cells 12 months after diagnosis. Diabet Med 2007; 24:1487-90. [PMID: 17971177 DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-5491.2007.02292.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes in the susceptibility to Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is well known. However, we do not know whether the degree of pancreatic B-cell destruction depends on different HLA genetic risk. The aim of this study was to analyse the influence of DRB1* and DQB1* genes on the rate of pancreatic B-cell loss in a prospective series of 120 consecutive newly diagnosed T1DM subjects in the first 12 months after diagnosis. METHODS Patients were typed for HLA-DRB1* and DQB1* loci by a reverse line blot assay using an array of immobilized sequence-specific oligonucleotide probes. C-peptide, insulin requirement and glycated haemoglobin (HbA(1c)) were determined at diagnosis and every 3 months for 12 months. The variance of C-peptide as evidence of B-cell loss during follow-up was analysed using the general linear model for repeated-measures procedure. RESULTS Fasting C-peptide in T1DM subjects with low HLA genetic risk was significantly higher when compared with subjects with moderate or high HLA genetic risk from time of diagnosis up to 12 months (P = 0.007 and P = 0.0002, respectively). Nonetheless, the changes in C-peptide levels over a 12-month period did not differ significantly between T1DM subjects with different HLA genetic risks. CONCLUSIONS Low-risk HLA genotype in T1DM is associated with less destruction of pancreatic B-cells up to 12 months after diagnosis. These results are useful when designing trials for therapies aimed to prevent the progression of B-cell destruction in recent-onset T1DM.
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Phase II study of short course CHOP-rituximab (R) followed by ibritumomab tiuxetan (IT) as first-line treatment for follicular lymphoma (FL). J Clin Oncol 2007. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2007.25.18_suppl.8005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
8005 Background: Therapy with CHOP-R and radioimmunotherapy (RIT) is a promising treatment for untreated FL. Press reports complete responses (CR) of 69% in FL patients (pts.) with 6 cycles of CHOP followed by I-131 tositumomab. We report efficacy and safety using 3 cycles of CHOP-R followed by IT and extended R. Methods: Eligibility criteria include symptomatic or grade 3 untreated FL. 60 pts. have been accrued and 47 evaluated. The treatment consists of two phases: CHOP-R for 3 cycles followed by IT. One week after IT, pts receive R weekly × 4. Bone marrow (BM) biopsies and fusion PET-CT scans are obtained at baseline, after CHOP-R, and 12 weeks post RIT. The primary endpoint is CR rate. CR requires a neg. PET scan and conventional Working Group criteria. Results: Toxicity data are available for 47 pts of median age 56 (range, 39–78), 44 of whom completed both phases of therapy and are evaluated for response. Characteristics and CR rates after IT are shown: 3 pts. did not receive RIT (1 second malignancy, 1 non-compliance, 1 septic death). Of the 44, CR after CHOP-R is 41%. After IT, CR improved to 89%. Of the 5 pts who did not achieve CR, 3 had neg. PET scans (2 with PR, 1 with SD by CT), and 2 had residual disease by PET with PR by CT. At a mean follow-up of 16 months (range, 6–33 months), there are 4 relapses: 3 who achieved CR by PET-CT, 1 with PR by PET-CT. Toxicity was predominantly myelosuppression. There was 1 episode of febrile neutropenia after RIT. Conclusions: 3 cycles of CHOP-R followed by IT and R achieve a high CR in previously-untreated pts. with FL. Addition of RIT increased CR from 41% to 89%. Data will be presented on the affect of bulky disease, positive BM, grade 2 or 3 histology, and high FLIPI score on CR. Further follow-up is necessary to evaluate response duration and determine whether there is a correlation with early or late CR. [Table: see text] [Table: see text]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical and experimental observations in animal models indicate that intestinal commensal bacteria are involved in the initiation and amplification of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). No paediatric reports are available on intestinal endogenous microflora in IBD. AIMS To investigate and characterise the predominant composition of the mucosa-associated intestinal microflora in colonoscopic biopsy specimens of paediatric patients with newly diagnosed IBD. METHODS Mucosa-associated bacteria were quantified and isolated from biopsy specimens of the ileum, caecum and rectum obtained at colonoscopy in 12 patients with Crohn's disease, 7 with ulcerative colitis, 6 with indeterminate colitis, 10 with lymphonodular hyperplasia of the distal ileum and in 7 controls. Isolation and characterisation were carried out by conventional culture techniques for aerobic and facultative-anaerobic microorganisms, and molecular analysis (16S rRNA-based amplification and real-time polymerase chain reaction assays) for the detection of anaerobic bacterial groups or species. RESULTS A higher number of mucosa-associated aerobic and facultative-anaerobic bacteria were found in biopsy specimens of children with IBD than in controls. An overall decrease in some bacterial species or groups belonging to the normal anaerobic intestinal flora was suggested by molecular approaches; in particular, occurrence of Bacteroides vulgatus was low in Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and indeterminate colitis specimens. CONCLUSION This is the first paediatric report investigating the intestinal mucosa-associated microflora in patients of the IBD spectrum. These results, although limited by the sample size, allow a better understanding of changes in mucosa-associated bacterial flora in these patients, showing either a predominance of some potentially harmful bacterial groups or a decrease in beneficial bacterial species. These data underline the central role of mucosa-adherent bacteria in IBD.
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The glucose clamp reveals an association between adiponectin gene polymorphisms and insulin sensitivity in obese subjects. Int J Obes (Lond) 2006; 31:424-8. [PMID: 16801926 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijo.0803419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Results concerning the association of adiponectin gene polymorphisms (single-nucleotide polymorphisms, SNPs) with obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2DM), metabolic disorders and insulin resistance have not lead to definite conclusions. The aim of our study was to investigate a possible association between the -11391G>A and -11377C>G SNPs of adiponectin gene and measure of insulin sensitivity evaluated by the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in a group of 'uncomplicated' obese subjects (with no associated comorbidities) (n=99, mean age 35 years) with a history of obesity lasting at least 10 years. The study of uncomplicated obese subjects, free of possible confounding factors that could interfere with insulin sensitivity, such as pharmacological treatment, provides a good model to assess insulin sensitivity per se. We observed that subjects homozygous for the G allele at locus -11391 had lower M (mg/kg min)/fat-free mass (FFM) index and adiponectin levels compared to subjects with GA+AA genotypes (P=0.002 and P=0.03, respectively) and subjects carrying the -11377G variant had lower M (mg/kg min)/FFM index and adiponectin levels compared to noncarriers (P=0.003 and P=0.03, respectively). Our results imply that the two promoter SNPs, -11391G>A and -11377C>G, of the adiponectin gene are associated with a reduced insulin sensitivity evaluated by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp in obese subjects.
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Imaging results after CHOP-rituximab followed by 90Y ibritumomab tiuxetan and rituximab (R) in patients with previously-untreated follicular lymphoma (FL). J Clin Oncol 2006. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2006.24.18_suppl.7589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
7589 Background: There has been some question regarding the predictive value of 111In scans in FL. We report imaging results with fusion PET-CT scans and 111In scans in a single-institution, non-randomized, phase II trial in patients with FL treated with CHOP-R followed by 90Y ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin (Z)) and R. Methods: Eligible patients have CD20 positive FL, Grade 1–3 or transformed, Stage II-IV, no prior treatment with monoclonal antibody or chemotherapy, and symptomatic disease (if grade 1–2). CHOP-R is given every 21 days for 3 cycles. Four weeks after the last dose of CHOP-R, patients receive the Zevalin regimen, which includes 111In imaging and 90Y therapy. One week after Z, patients receive R 375 mg/m2 IV weekly for 4 doses. Bone marrow examination and fusion PET-CT scans are performed at baseline, after CHOP-R, and 12 weeks after Z. The primary endpoint is CR, and responses are reported using the International Working Group (IWG) criteria with the additional requirement of a negative PET scan for CR/CRu. Results: Thirty-six FL patients have been accrued, and 16 patients have completed therapy and follow-up studies. One patient did not have a positive PET scan at baseline. Following therapy, the proportion with a negative PET scan improved from 8 of 15 (53.3%) after CHOP-R to 15 of 15 (100%) after Z. Using IWG criteria in combination with PET scan results, the CR rate increased from 4 of 15 (26.7%) after CHOP-R to 12 of 15 (80%) after Z. Five of 6 patients (83%) with tumor uptake by 111In scan and 7 of 9 (78%) with a 111In scan negative for tumor achieved a CR. Conclusions: There was no significant difference in CR between those patients with 111In tumor uptake versus patients with a negative 111In scan. Functional imaging with PET-CT may be a more sensitive method than CT alone in determining residual disease in FL. This trial continues to accrue patients, and more time is needed to determine the duration of response and time to next therapy. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The 13C-urea breath test (UBT) for detecting Helicobacter pylori infection is a non-invasive method based on the organism's urease activity. Since its first description, the method has been extensively modified. However, only the dose of 13C-urea and the measurement equipment are directly related to the cost of the test. AIMS (1) To assess the diagnostic accuracy before eradication therapy of three UBTs using 25, 15, and 10 mg of 13C-urea, respectively; and (2) to determine diagnostic performance in the post-eradication setting showing the highest values for sensitivity and specificity with the lowest dose of 13C-urea. METHODS Three hundred consecutive patients were randomised to be tested with one of the three UBTs. All patients underwent upper endoscopy with biopsies. A total of 222 more patients were enrolled to evaluate the second aim. Infected patients were offered treatment and asked to return 4-6 weeks after the end of therapy to perform endoscopic follow up and to carry out 13C-UBT. RESULTS In the pretreatment setting, 13C-UBT 25 mg had a sensitivity of 100% (95% confidence interval (CI) 91.8-100) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI 93.7-100); 13C-UBT 15 mg had a sensitivity of 96.1% (95% CI 86.8-98.9) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI 92.6-100); and 13C-UBT 10 mg had a sensitivity of 89.1% (95% CI 77-95.3) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI 93.3-100). As the test with the best performance and the lowest dose of 13C-urea was 13C-UBT 15 mg, it was evaluated after treatment, reporting a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 79.6-100) and a specificity of 98.9% (95% CI 94.3-99.8). DISCUSSION UBTs using 25 and 15 mg of 13C-urea were both accurate in the diagnosis of H pylori infection in untreated patients. 13C-UBT 15 mg was also accurate for follow up of patients after treatment.
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Residual insulin secretion at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is independently associated with both, age of onset and HLA genotype. Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2005; 21:271-5. [PMID: 15786423 DOI: 10.1002/dmrr.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated whether residual insulin secretion and metabolic derangement at diagnosis of type 1 diabetes (T1DM) are influenced by human leukocyte antigens (HLA) class II genes. METHODS Eight hundred and seventy-one T1DM consecutive Caucasian patients were typed for HLA class II genes. In 300 of these patients, glycated haemoglobin, insulin requirement, baseline C-peptide and body mass index (BMI) Z-score were measured at clinical diagnosis. The effect of the HLA genotypes on the quantitative variables was investigated using multiple linear regression. The beta coefficient regression of the age at onset and HLA genotypes were standardized to compare their specific importance for C-peptide levels. RESULTS The HLA genotypes were divided in high-, moderate- and low-risk categories. The frequency of high-risk genotype, DRB1*03-DQB1*0201/DRB1*04-DQB1*0302, decreased with increasing age of onset (p < 0.0001, chi(2) linear trend). The presence of the high-risk genotype was independently associated with lower C-peptide levels at diagnosis (p = 0.002). In the regression analysis of C-peptide levels, the standardized beta coefficient for age of onset and high risk compared to low-risk genotypes showed similar results (0.27 and 0.24 respectively). There was a positive association between age of onset and C-peptide (p < 0.0001) and a negative association between age of onset and insulin requirement (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS The degree of beta-cell destruction at diagnosis of T1DM is independently associated with both, age of onset and HLA genotypes, the two variables exert a similar quantitative effect on residual beta-cell function at diagnosis.
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Semileptonic decays of d mesons in three-flavor lattice QCD. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2005; 94:011601. [PMID: 15698062 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.94.011601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2004] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
We present the first three-flavor lattice QCD calculations for D-->pilnu and D-->Klnu semileptonic decays. Simulations are carried out using ensembles of unquenched gauge fields generated by the MILC Collaboration. With an improved staggered action for light quarks, we are able to simulate at light quark masses down to 1/8 of the strange mass. Consequently, the systematic error from the chiral extrapolation is much smaller than in previous calculations with Wilson-type light quarks. Our results for the form factors at q(2)=0 are f(D-->pi)(+)(0)=0.64(3)(6) and f(D-->K)(+)(0)=0.73(3)(7), where the first error is statistical and the second is systematic, added in quadrature. Combining our results with experimental branching ratios, we obtain the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix elements |V(cd)|=0.239(10)(24)(20) and |V(cs)|=0.969(39)(94)(24), where the last errors are from experimental uncertainties.
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High-precision lattice QCD confronts experiment. PHYSICAL REVIEW LETTERS 2004; 92:022001. [PMID: 14753930 DOI: 10.1103/physrevlett.92.022001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2003] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The recently developed Symanzik-improved staggered-quark discretization allows unquenched lattice-QCD simulations with much smaller (and more realistic) quark masses than previously possible. To test this formalism, we compare experiment with a variety of nonperturbative calculations in QCD drawn from a restricted set of "gold-plated" quantities. We find agreement to within statistical and systematic errors of 3% or less. We discuss the implications for phenomenology and, in particular, for heavy-quark physics.
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Severity of obstetric complications and risk of adult schizophrenia in male patients: a case-control study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2003; 14:35-8. [PMID: 14563090 DOI: 10.1080/jmf.14.1.35.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Obstetric complications may be an etiologically important factor in the development of schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the risk for developing schizophrenia in adult life is increased in individuals with more severe obstetric complications at birth. METHODS To this end, mothers were interviewed to gather data about obstetric complications. The 'midwife protocol' of Parnas and colleagues was used to quantify the presence and entity of obstetric complications. We studied the frequency distribution and the severity of obstetric complications in 64 male DSM IV schizophrenic patients. The genetic load was reduced by using 81 brothers who were not psychiatric patients as controls. Odds ratios for the effects of obstetric complications, maternal age, birth order and birth weight were calculated using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS The only factor found to have a significant effect on the risk of schizophrenia was the overall measure of obstetric complications at birth. The history of obstetric complications was higher in schizophrenic patients than in their siblings. CONCLUSION The results seem to confirm the hypothesis that obstetric complications may contribute to increased vulnerability to the disease, in addition to genetic risk factors.
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Severity of obstetric complications and risk of adult schizophrenia in male patients: a case-control study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2003. [DOI: 10.1080/713606512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Abstract
During rotator cuff repairs, it is recommended that the hypovascular tissue edge be resected. To investigate rotator cuff tendon histopathology, we performed immunohistochemistry on 8 surgical and 6 cadaveric specimens. Hoechst nuclear stain and standard hematoxylin-eosin were used for morphologic analysis. Antibody to human von Willebrand factor tagged with fluorescein isothiocyanate, conjugated, was used to visualize vascularity, and antibody to human procollagen type I tagged with Cy3 was used to visualize new procollagen synthesis. There were no significant differences in the vascularity of surgical specimens sectioned near the tear site (<2.5 mm from tear margin) and matched cadaveric controls. However, sections taken 2.5 to 5 mm away from the tear demonstrated more vessels than those taken from either control or surgical specimens within 2.5 mm of the tear (P <.001). There were no differences in nuclear distribution patterns or in procollagen production and distribution between surgical specimens from sites near the tear or away from the tear. On the basis of morphologic architecture, these data suggest that minimal debridement of tendon edges only is required to maximize healing of the rotator cuff tendon at the time of repair.
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