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Effectiveness of influenza vaccine in children in preventing influenza associated hospitalisation, 2018/19, England. Vaccine 2019; 38:158-164. [PMID: 31648914 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2019.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
2013/14 saw the start of the introduction of a new live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) programme for children in England. 2018/19 saw co-circulation of both A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2), when LAIV was offered to all healthy children 2-9 years of age. LAIV effectiveness against influenza hospitalisation is not well described. This paper presents the 2018/19 end-of-season adjusted vaccine effectiveness (aVE) against laboratory confirmed influenza related hospitalisation in children aged 2-17. The test negative case control approach was used to estimate aVE by influenza A subtype and vaccine type. Cases and controls were selected from a sentinel laboratory surveillance system which collates details of individuals tested for influenza with reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on respiratory samples. Vaccine and clinical history was obtained from general practitioners of study participants. There were 307 hospitalised cases and 679 hospitalised controls. End-of-season influenza aVE was 53.0% (95% CI: 33.3, 66.8) against influenza confirmed hospitalisation; 63.5% (95% CI: 34.4, 79.7) against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 hospitalisation and 31.1% (95% CI: -53.9, 69.2) against influenza A(H3N2). LAIV aVE was 49.1% (95% CI: 25.9, 65.0) for any influenza and 70.7% (95% CI: 41.8, 85.3) for A(H1N1)pdm09, whereas for those receiving quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (QIV), aVE was 64.4% (95% CI: 29.4, 82.0) and 44.4% (95% CI: -51.9, 79.6) respectively. We provide evidence of overall significant VE for both LAIV and QIV against influenza associated hospitalisation in children 2-17 years of age, most notably against influenza A(H1N1)pdm09, with non-significant protection against A(H3N2).
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Abstract
The preoperative computer-assisted resection planning is the basis for every navigation. Thanks to modern algorithms, the prerequisites have been created to carry out a virtual resection planning and a risk analysis. Thus, individual segment resections can be precisely planned in any conceivable combination. The transfer of planning information and resection suggestions to the operating theater is still problematic. The so-called stereotactic liver navigation supports the exact intraoperative implementation of the planned resection strategy and provides the surgeon with real-time three-dimensional information on resection margins and critical structures during the resection. This is made possible by a surgical navigation system that measures the position of surgical instruments and then presents them together with the preoperative surgical planning data. Although surgical navigation systems have been indispensable in neurosurgery and spinal surgery for many years, these procedures have not yet become established as standard in liver surgery. This is mainly due to the technical challenge of navigating a moving organ. As the liver is constantly moving and deforming during surgery due to respiration and surgical manipulation, the surgical navigation system must be able to measure these alterations in order to adapt the preoperative navigation data to the current situation. Despite these advances, further developments are required until navigated liver resection enters clinical routine; however, it is already clear that laparoscopic liver surgery and robotic surgery will benefit most from navigation technology.
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Atrophia maculosa varioliformis cutis: a rare variant of superficial morphea? J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2019; 33:e415-e418. [PMID: 31141209 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.15721] [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]
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4
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Epidemiological, dermoscopical and pathological evaluation of melanocytic lesions of the buttock in a 5-year period: a female prevalence. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 31:e287-e289. [PMID: 27879009 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.14059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Prevalence of Chlamydiaceae in Swiss Fattening Pigs. J Comp Pathol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2015.10.154] [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]
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Ultrasound pattern of a rare skin disease: multiple miliaryosteoma cutis. J Ultrasound 2015; 19:145-7. [PMID: 27298645 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-015-0184-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Multiple miliaryosteoma cutis (MMOC) is a rare nodular skin disease, characterized by tiny bone nodules in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, presenting clinically as multiple normochromic papules and nodules, usually on the face. We described the case of MMOC of the face in a woman, ultrasonically evaluated with very high frequency probe. MATERIALS AND METHODS A 45-year-old patient with multiple papules, 3-5 mm in diameter, grouped in the frontal region. Skin ultrasound examination, cutaneous biopsy and laboratory evaluation were performed. RESULTS High-frequency ultrasound showed the presence of multiple hyperechogenic linear and roundish structures, associated by hypoechogenic shadow. The histology revealed a normal orthokeratotic stratified epithelium with fragment of mature lamellar bone localized at level of the reticular dermis. Laboratory evaluation was normal. According to the clinical, pathological, laboratory and instrumental analyses, a final diagnosis of miliaryosteoma cutis (or primary osteoma cutis not associated with Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy) was made. CONCLUSION In case of multiple papules of subcutaneous tissue, the diagnosis of MMOC, although rare, should be considered and high-frequency sonography, identifying the calcifications, suggests diagnosis.
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Comparative safety profile of Amoxicillin alone and in association with clavulanic Acid in pediatrics: data from spontaneous reporting in Italy. Clin Ther 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2015.05.138] [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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Acute Renal Failure In Patients Treated With Dronedarone or Amiodarone: A Large Population-Based Cohort Study In Italy. Clin Ther 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2015.05.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Prevalence of Simkania negevensis in chlorinated water from spa swimming pools and domestic supplies. J Appl Microbiol 2015; 118:1076-82. [PMID: 25619531 DOI: 10.1111/jam.12761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Simkania negevensis in the chlorinated water of spa swimming pools and domestic network systems. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 10 and 36 samples were collected from two domestic water supplies and four spa facilities, respectively. Simkania negevensis was isolated in Acanthamoeba castellanii monolayers and detected by Gimenez staining and immunofluorescence test. Simkania negevensis DNA, extracted from the positive samples, was confirmed by a nested PCR assay followed by sequencing. Simkania negevensis was detected in 41·3% of samples (domestic water: 50%; untreated spa supply water: 25%; chlorinated spa pool water: 42·9%) from all the examined water systems in successive samplings performed in 1 year. The presence of S. negevensis was not correlated with the counts of Heterotrophic Bacteria and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Unlike Legionella spp., which were never isolated from the swimming-pool water samples, S. negevensis was also detected in chlorinated spa water. CONCLUSIONS This investigation shows that Simkania is widespread in natural and man-made aquatic environments, which may represent possible sources of infection: in the swimming pools, in particular, the aerosol generated by the water movement could increase the risk of inhalation of infected particles. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY This study represents the first evidence of the presence of S. negevensis in spa pool water. Sero-epidemiological surveys on spa users could help to clarify its transmission in this environment.
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Adenocarcinoma of the cervix associated with a neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma of the cervix in the spectrum of Muir-Torre syndrome. EUR J GYNAECOL ONCOL 2015; 36:213-215. [PMID: 26050364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) is an autosomal genodermatosis that is diagnosed by the presence of at least one sebaceous gland tumor and at least one visceral malignancy. The most frequent visceral malignancies reported in literature are low-grade colon-rectal and genitourinary cancers, with prolonged survival. The authors report the case of a 52-year-old female, with a positive familial history for MTS, who developed a cutaneous sebaceous carcinoma, a synchronous colon-rectal adenocarcinoma, and a metachronous endocervical adenocarcinoma associated with a neuroendocrine small cell carcinoma of the cervix (SCNC), with lymph node metastasis. The rare occurrence in literature of the cervical SCNC and the rarest occurrence of a neuroendocrine carcinoma in the context of a MTS deviate from the usual and low-grade types of cancers normally described with MTS. It should be always appropriate to assess any symptoms that might reveal an underlying malignancy, although not within the spectrum of neoplasms most associated with this rare syndrome.
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Combined microwave thermal ablation and liver resection for single step treatment of otherwise unresectable colorectal liver metastases; a monoistitutional experiences. EUROPEAN REVIEW FOR MEDICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL SCIENCES 2014; 18:6-10. [PMID: 25535184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Over half of colorectal cancer patients will develop liver metastases. BACKGROUND Thermal ablation with or without associated liver resection for colorectal hepatic metastasis has been suggested as an alternative method to improve survival if radical surgical resection is not achievable. A retrospective case series of patients treated with microwave ablation(MWA) associated with hepatic resection in one step procedure, was reviewed to analyze the clinical outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS In a group of 40 patients surgically cured for liver tumors in our Department, 5 patients with technically unresectable disease underwent combined treatment LR-MWA. RESULTS Four patients were treated with multiple segmentectomies and MWA and one patient received a left lobectomy (S2-S3) and MWA. Only 1 patient (20%) developed post surgical complication which was a liver abscess (grade II of Dindo classification). CONCLUSIONS Hepatic resection combined with MWA expanded indications for operative treatment of multiple bilobar liver metastasis. This procedure promise to have good long-term outcomes.
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Effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccination during pregnancy in preventing influenza infection in infants, England, 2013/14. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 19:20959. [PMID: 25411687 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2014.19.45.20959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In this study we used the screening method to estimate the effectiveness of seasonal influenza vaccination during pregnancy in preventing influenza virus infection and influenza-related hospitalisation in infants under six months, in England in the 2013/14 season. Seasonal influenza vaccination in pregnancy was 71% (95% CI: 24–89%) effective in preventing infant influenza virus infection and 64% (95% CI: 6–86%) effective in preventing infant influenza hospitalisation, and should be recommended in pregnancy.
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Abstract
Perihilar cholangiocarcinoma or Klatskin tumors are a rare entity arising from the extrahepatic bile duct bifurcation. Considering the close anatomical relationship of the bile duct bifurcation with the portal vein bifurcation and hepatic arteries, surgical treatment is demanding. With an incidence of only 2-4 cases/100,000 population/year patients should be referred to a specialized center. The tumors are usually poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas growing diffusely along the duct and also the perineural sheath. Only radical surgery offers a curative option and currently surgical strategy usually consists of en bloc resection of the bile duct, extended liver resection and portal vein resection. Proximal and lateral safety margin R0 resections are technically very demanding procedures because of the local anatomy.
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Comparative safety profiles of intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab and pegaptanib: the analysis of the WHO database of adverse drug reactions. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2014; 70:1505-12. [PMID: 25234795 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-014-1755-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab and pegaptanib in the WHO database in order to have a real-life information on these drugs, which now is only based on data coming from clinical trials. METHODS ADR reports for intravitreal use of bevacizumab, ranibizumab and pegaptanib from January 2002 to December 2012 were selected from the WHO-VigiBase. Reporting odds ratio (ROR) with confidence interval of 95 % and p value was calculated. The analysis was performed for drug-reaction pairs. The Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terminology for ADRs was used. RESULTS The analysis was performed on 3180 reports corresponding to 7753 drug-reaction pairs. Significant RORs for endophthalmitis and uveitis (1.90, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.48-2.43, and 10.62, 6.62-17.05, respectively) were retrieved for bevacizumab, and cerebrovascular accident and myocardial infarction produced significant ROR (1.54, 1.14-2.10 and 1.73, 1.18-2.53, respectively) for ranibizumab. Pegaptanib was significantly associated with visual impairment (1.98, 1.12-3.5, p = 0.02), nausea (3.29, 1.57-6.86, p < 0.001), vomiting (2.91, 1.2-7.07, p = 0.01) and drug hypersensitivity (8.75, 3.1-24.66, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our data showed an elevated disproportionality for cardiovascular ADRs in patients treated with ranibizumab and for infective ocular reactions in those treated with bevacizumab. No relevant safety issues were identified for pegaptanib. These findings suggest bevacizumab as a suitable choice for AMD therapy due to its effectiveness similar to that of ranibizumab, its favourable safety profile and for its lower cost.
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Detection of varying influenza circulation within England in 2012/13: informing antiviral prescription and public health response. J Public Health (Oxf) 2014; 37:295-304. [PMID: 25096307 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdu046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subnational variation of 2009 pandemic influenza activity in England has been reported; however, little work has been published on this topic for seasonal influenza. If variation is present, this knowledge may assist with both identifying the onset of influenza epidemics, informing community antiviral prescription and local health planning. METHODS An end-of-season analysis of influenza surveillance systems (acute respiratory outbreaks, primary care consultations, virological testing, influenza-confirmed secondary care admissions and excess all-cause mortality) was undertaken at national and subnational levels for 2012/13 when influenza B and A(H3N2) dominated. RESULTS National community antiviral prescription was recommended in Week 51 following national threshold exceedance. However, this was preceded up to 2 weeks by subnational influenza activity in 2/9 regions in England. Regional variation in circulation of influenza subtypes was observed and severe influenza surveillance data sources were able to monitor the subnational impact. CONCLUSIONS Evidence of virological activity in two or more regions above a threshold indicated the onset of the 2012/13 season. Subnational thresholds should be determined and evaluated in order to improve timeliness of the national antiviral alert. During the season, outputs should be reported at levels that can inform local public health responses and variation considered when retrospectively evaluating the impact of interventions.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether donor age was a predictor of outcomes in liver transplantation, representing an independent risk factor as well as its impact related to recipient age-matching. METHODS We analyzed prospectively collected data from 221 adult liver transplantations performed from January 2006 to September 2009. RESULTS Compared with recipients who received grafts from donors <60 years old, transplantation from older donors was associated with significantly higher rates of graft rejection (9.5% vs 3.5%; P = .05) and worse graft survival (P = .021). When comparing recipient and graft survivals according to age matching, we observed significantly worse values for age-mismatched (P values .029 and .037, respectively) versus age-matched patients. After adjusting for covariates in a multivariate model, age mismatch was an independent risk factor for patient death (hazard ratio [HR] 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-4.17; P = .027) and graft loss (HR 3.86, 95% CI 1.02-15.47; P = .046). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggest to that optimized donor allocation takes into account both donor and recipient ages maximize survival of liver-transplanted patients.
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Uptake and impact of a new live attenuated influenza vaccine programme in England: early results of a pilot in primary school-age children, 2013/14 influenza season. Euro Surveill 2014. [DOI: 10.2807/ese.19.22.20823-en] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
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Uptake and impact of a new live attenuated influenza vaccine programme in England: early results of a pilot in primary school-age children, 2013/14 influenza season. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 19. [PMID: 24925457 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2014.19.22.20823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
As part of the introduction and roll-out of a universal childhood live-attenuated influenza vaccination programme, 4–11 year-olds were vaccinated in seven pilot areas in England in the 2013/14 influenza season. This paper presents the uptake and impact of the programme for a range of disease indicators. End-of-season uptake was defined as the number of children in the target population who received at least one dose of influenza vaccine. Between week 40 2013 and week 15 2014, cumulative disease incidence per 100,000 population (general practitioner consultations for influenza-like illness and laboratory-confirmed influenza hospitalisations), cumulative influenza swab positivity in primary and secondary care and cumulative proportion of emergency department respiratory attendances were calculated. Indicators were compared overall and by age group between pilot and non-pilot areas. Direct impact was defined as reduction in cumulative incidence based on residence in pilot relative to non-pilot areas in 4–11 year-olds. Indirect impact was reduction between pilot and non-pilot areas in <4 year-olds and >11 year-olds. Overall vaccine uptake of 52.5% (104,792/199,475) was achieved. Although influenza activity was low, a consistent, though not statistically significant, decrease in cumulative disease incidence and influenza positivity across different indicators was seen in pilot relative to non-pilot areas in both targeted and non-targeted age groups, except in older age groups, where no difference was observed for secondary care indicators.
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Viral infections in pregnancy: advice for healthcare workers. J Hosp Infect 2014; 87:11-24. [PMID: 24767811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2013.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/02/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCWs) have the potential for increased exposure to infectious disease resulting from the provision of patient care. Pregnancy can confer specific problems in some infections for the mother and her unborn child. AIMS To discuss the viral infections encountered in the UK that constitute a particular risk to the pregnant HCW: human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, human parvovirus B19, cytomegalovirus, rubella, measles, enteroviruses, mumps and influenza. Evidence for nosocomial transmission, clinical aspects specific to pregnancy, and recommendations to protect the pregnant HCW at work are included. METHODS Medline, EMBASE and Pubmed were searched using a list of keywords specific to each viral infection, including 'nosocomial', 'occupational' and 'healthcare workers'. References from the bibliographies of articles identified were reviewed for relevant material. FINDINGS The evidence for increased risk in the healthcare setting for many of these infections, outside of outbreaks, is weak, possibly because of the application of standard protective infection control measures or because risk of community exposure is greater. The pregnant HCW should be advised on protective behaviour in both settings. Potential interventions include vaccination and reducing the likelihood of exposure through universal precautions, infection control and redeployment. CONCLUSION Protection of the pregnant HCW is the responsibility of the individual, antenatal care provider and employer, and is made possible through awareness of the risks and potential interventions both before and after exposure. If exposure occurs or if the HCW develops an infective illness, urgent specialist advice is required.
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TORCH screening in pregnancy. Where are we now? An audit of use in a tertiary level centre. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2014; 34:309-12. [PMID: 24476395 DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2013.872609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
This audit was performed in the obstetrics and gynaecology department of a tertiary referral hospital, to investigate the use and results of TORCH screening. St Michael's Hospital delivers approximately 6,000 women from South Bristol a year and receives tertiary referrals from the South West of England and South Wales. It was found that 739 patients over a 6-year period from April 2006 to January 2012 underwent testing. The majority's indication (21%) was polyhydramnios. Three patients had evidence of primary CMV infection in pregnancy on serology, two for fetal indications (polyhydramnios and echogenic bowel) and one following a miscarriage. There were no confirmed cases of gestational toxoplasma or rubella. Routine testing for toxoplasma and rubella infection as part of the TORCH screening in cases of fetal or obstetric abnormality should thus be discontinued in our population.
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A new laboratory-based surveillance system (Respiratory DataMart System) for influenza and other respiratory viruses in England: results and experience from 2009 to 2012. Euro Surveill 2014; 19. [DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2014.19.3.20680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
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Development of gait segmentation methods for wearable foot pressure sensors. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2013; 2012:5018-21. [PMID: 23367055 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2012.6347120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
We present an automated segmentation method based on the analysis of plantar pressure signals recorded from two synchronized wireless foot insoles. Given the strict limits on computational power and power consumption typical of wearable electronic components, our aim is to investigate the capability of a Hidden Markov Model machine-learning method, to detect gait phases with different levels of complexity in the processing of the wearable pressure sensors signals. Therefore three different datasets are developed: raw voltage values, calibrated sensor signals and a calibrated estimation of total ground reaction force and position of the plantar center of pressure. The method is tested on a pool of 5 healthy subjects, through a leave-one-out cross validation. The results show high classification performances achieved using estimated biomechanical variables, being on average the 96%. Calibrated signals and raw voltage values show higher delays and dispersions in phase transition detection, suggesting a lower reliability for online applications.
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Venous aneurysms of saphena magna: is this really a rare disease? : Comment to: A challenging hernia: primary venous aneurysm of the proximal saphenous vein. Hernia 2012; 17:115-7. [PMID: 23132637 DOI: 10.1007/s10029-012-1003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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NEUROMYELITIS OPTICA SPECTRUM DISORDER AND CMV RETINITIS: A CASE REPORT. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry 2012. [DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2012-304200a.63] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Abstract
The anterior approach liver resection has advantages compared to conventional liver resection. Mobilization during conventional liver resection may cause local pressure on the tumor which could lead to tumor cell dissemination or even to tumor rupture. Furthermore, hemodynamic parameters tend to deteriorate during mobilization due to compression or twisting of the inferior vena cava. In addition, the left liver lobe often is compressed which can lead to tissue damage of the residual parenchyma. The risk of these complications can be reduced by the anterior approach technique which is facilitated by the so-called liver hanging maneuver. Appropriate indications for this technique are large tumors of the right liver lobe, tumors with infiltration of the right hepatic vein and infiltration of the vena cava from the right side, tumors with infiltration of the diaphragm and tumors of the right lobe after previous resections of the right lobe.
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Development of an in-shoe pressure-sensitive device for gait analysis. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2012; 2011:5637-40. [PMID: 22255618 DOI: 10.1109/iembs.2011.6091364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we present the development of an in-shoe device to monitor plantar pressure distribution for gait analysis. The device consists in a matrix of 64 sensitive elements, integrated with in-shoe electronics and battery which provide an high-frequency data acquisition, wireless transmission and an average autonomy of 7 hours in continuous working mode. The device is presented along with its experimental characterization and a preliminary validation on a healthy subject.
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P3-S1.07 Chlamydia trachomatis serovar distribution and other sexually transmitted coinfections in subjects attending a STD outpatients clinic in Italy. Br J Vener Dis 2011. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2011-050108.407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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P4-S1.04 11C-Choline small animal PET in experimental Chlamydia muridarum infection. Br J Vener Dis 2011. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2011-050108.506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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P15.10 Effects of repetitive magnetic stimulation (rMS) in the treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) and floor dysfunction (FD). Clin Neurophysiol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s1388-2457(11)60459-8] [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]
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Abstracts. Eur Heart J Suppl 2010. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/suq023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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TREATMENT STRATEGY IN PATIENTS WITH ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AND HYPERTENSION TO THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT. FOUR YEAR EXPERIENCE IN THE FLORENCE AREA: PP.1.42. J Hypertens 2010. [DOI: 10.1097/01.hjh.0000378366.47349.48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
The human acetabulofemoral joint is commonly modelled as a pure ball-and-socket joint, but there has been no quantitative assessment of this assumption in the literature. Our aim was to test the limits and validity of this hypothesis. We performed experiments on four adult cadavers. Cortical pins, each equipped with a marker cluster, were implanted in the pelvis and the femur. Movements were recorded using stereophotogrammetry while an operator rotated the cadaver’s acetabulofemoral joint, exploiting the widest possible range of movement. The functional consistency of the acetabulofemoral joint as a pure spherical joint was assessed by comparing the magnitude of the translations of the hip joint centre as obtained on cadavers, with the centre of rotation of two metal segments linked through a perfectly spherical hinge. The results showed that the radii of the spheres containing 95% of the positions of the estimated centres of rotation were separated by less than 1 mm for both the acetabulofemoral joint and the mechanical spherical hinge. Therefore, the acetabulofemoral joint can be modelled as a spherical joint within the considered range of movement (flexion/extension 20° to 70°; abduction/adduction 0° to 45°; internal/external rotation 0° to 30°).
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Laparoscopic deroofing of hepatic cysts: The most effective treatment option. LA CLINICA TERAPEUTICA 2010; 161:345-348. [PMID: 20931158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With advances in laparoscopic surgery, laparoscopic deroofing has gained wide acceptance in the surgical community to treat symptomatic non-parasitic hepatic cysts. Published non-surgical data still favour aspiration and sclerotherapy as treatment in these cases, though morbidity is higher and recurrence rates are not acceptable. We reviewed all patients that had been treated by laparoscopic deroofing in our department over a period of 6 years in order to find out if the surgical approach should be considered the standard treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS Over a 6 year period, 34 laparoscopic deroofings were performed in 21 patients with symptomatic cysts. Patients underwent laparoscopy followed by radical deroofing using an Ultracision device. RESULTS All cases were completed laparoscopically, no intraoperative adverse events were recorded. Mean operation time was 101 ± 22.7 min. The mean size of treated cysts was 9.7 ± 2.18 cm. Follow up showed only one symptomatic recurrence (3.3%) two months after surgery. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic deroofing of hepatic cysts is a safe and effective treatment option. Recurrence rates are unprecedentedly low. Our data suggest that the risk of operation is justified and that the method is superior to sclerotherapy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The Authors give an accurate description of a method of incisional hernia repair with an open technique, under local anaesthesia. The aim of this work was to show the feasibility and safety of an open preperitoneal mesh technique, as well as giving a description of technical details and the results of incisional hernia repair under local anaesthesia. METHODS Between January 1994 and February 2008, 129 patients underwent an open mesh surgical procedure for incisional hernia. Using some simple selection criteria: maximal diameter of the hernia orifice not greater than 10 cm, the reducibility of the hernia sack, the absence of bowel obstructive symptoms, 71 patients (55.03%) were selected to be submitted to a local anaesthesia procedure, performing an open mesh repair. RESULTS The median operative time was 101 min. The intra-operative measurement of the hernia defect showed that: in 24 patients (33.8%) it was < 3 cm, in 37 patients (52.2%) up to 10 cm and in ten patients (14%) > 10 cm. There were only two conversions to general anaesthesia (2.8%). Among the other 69 patients only four patients (5.7%) showed transient intra-operative bradycardia. All the other 69 patients (97.2%) had immediate postoperative deambulation. Forty-four of them (63.4%) were discharged within 24 h. During follow-up (12-168 months) only two recurrences (2.8%) were registered. CONCLUSIONS This experience clearly shows that local anaesthesia for incisional hernia repair with a open preperitoneal mesh technique is feasible, safe, and effective, having a low intra-operative risk, being cost-effective and showing very good long-term results.
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Simultaneous use of direct and indirect diagnostic techniques in atypical respiratory infections from Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. J Clin Lab Anal 2009; 23:206-9. [PMID: 19623657 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.20332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2008, 50 samples (BAL), coming from hospital patients, with acute respiratory symptoms have been investigated using two real-time PCR methods: one assay for the single detection of Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA and one commercially available real-time duplex PCR assay for the detection of C. pneumoniae and M. pneumoniae DNA. Both techniques used here showed compliant results, with 100% concordance for detection of C. pneumoniae and 98% for detection of M. pneumoniae. The positive results obtained agreed with the clinical suspicion of such infections in some cases and with the presence of IgM specific for C. pneumoniae and M. pneumoniae in all cases of acute infection.
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Chlamydial infections in feral pigeons in Europe: Review of data and focus on public health implications. Vet Microbiol 2009; 135:54-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2008.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Chlamydia trachomatis serovar distribution and other concurrent sexually transmitted infections in heterosexual men with urethritis in Italy. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2008; 28:523-6. [PMID: 18958506 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-008-0650-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/10/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of Chlamydia trachomatis serovars among 157 heterosexual male patients with urethritis and the presence of coinfections with other sexually transmitted infections were studied. One hundred seventeen (74.5%) patients, with a mean age of 33.7 years, were Italians, whereas 40 (25.5%) were immigrants coming from eastern European countries, Africa, and South America. All the immigrants and 82 (70.0%) Italian patients reported sex with prostitutes. Out of 157 patients, 73 (46.5%) were found positive for C. trachomatis in urethral secretions and eight different C. trachomatis serovars were identified. The most common serovars were E (n = 18; 24.7%), D (n = 15; 20.5%), G (n = 14;19.2%), and F (n = 12; 16.4%). The sequencing data showed a high degree of conservation of the omp1 gene. Thirty-six (46.7%) out of the 73 C. trachomatis-positive patients were coinfected with another sexually transmitted infection. The most common coinfection was gonorrhoea detected in 22 (30.1%) patients, followed by condyloma in eight (8.2%) patients, syphilis in five (6.8%), and HIV in three (4.1%).
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The Sp1 transcription factor binds to the G-allele of the –1087 IL-10 gene polymorphism and enhances transcriptional activation. Genes Immun 2008; 10:280-4. [DOI: 10.1038/gene.2008.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
AIM The authors report their experience with incisional hernia repair and set criteria for the safe performance of the procedure on a day hospital basis. MATERIALS AND METHODS From January 1994 to July 2005, 29 day hospital procedures for incisional hernia were performed under local anaesthesia. Selection criteria included: a hernial defect < 10 cm, a reducible hernial sac and negative history for obstructive symptoms. The repair was achieved with a polypropylene plug in defects < 3 cm and a double layer mesh in larger defects. RESULTS All patients were discharged within 7 hours of surgery. Postoperative pain was mild and required hospital analgesia in 30% of cases. Back at home analgesia was needed in only three patients (10%). Six patients (20%) developed a seroma that reabsorbed spontaneously. During a follow-up ranging 6 to 120 months (mean 75), no recurrence has been recorded. CONCLUSIONS In selected patients, incisional hernia repair as day hospital procedure is feasible, safe and absolutely effective. The use of polypropylene plugs and meshes accounts for a sound repair with low risk of complications.
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EPIDEMIOLOGIA MOLECOLARE DELLE INFEZIONI GENITALI DA C.TRACHOMATIS A BOLOGNA. MICROBIOLOGIA MEDICA 2007. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2007.2751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Interleukin-24, RANTES and CCR5 gene polymorphisms are not associated with chronic adult periodontitis. J Periodontal Res 2007; 42:152-8. [PMID: 17305874 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.2006.00928.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Cytokines, such as interleukin-10, and related genetic polymorphisms, have been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic periodontitis. The aim of this study was to investigate a possible correlation between chronic periodontitis and genetic polymorphisms coding for two interleukin-10 related chemokines [interleukin-24 and regulated on activation, normal T cells expressed and secreted (RANTES)] as well as a RANTES receptor [CC chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5)]. MATERIAL AND METHODS A single-blind, two-centre, case-controlled study was carried out with test patients from the Clinic of Periodontics, Göteborg University, and from the Department of Periodontology, Glasgow University, and control subjects from the undergraduate clinics of both schools. Blood samples were collected from 106 patients (56 women and 50 men, mean age 51.7 yr) with generalized, severe chronic periodontitis and from 69 periodontally healthy subjects (37 women and 32 men, mean age 53.3 yr). The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify the genetic coding for interleukin-24, RANTES and CCR5. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared between the test and control groups using Fischer's exact test at the 5% level of significance. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between patients with chronic periodontitis and control subjects, regarding genotype distribution or allele frequency, irrespective of smoking status, in the combined Glasgow and Gothenburg cohort or in the specific location cohorts. The allele frequencies for healthy and control subjects for RANTES gave a p-value of 0.80 (allele G was 58.8% in healthy subjects and and 54.4% in subjects with periodontitis), for interleukin-24 the p-value was 0.90 (allele T was 56.2% in healthy subjects and and 54.9% in subjects with periodontitis) and for CCR5 the p-value was 0.90 (the wild-type allele was 85% in healthy subjects and and 82.7% in subjects with periodontitis). CONCLUSION The interleukin-24, RANTES and CCR5 polymorphisms investigated are not associated with chronic periodontitis.
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Seroprevalence to chlamydiae in pigs in Italy. Vet Rec 2006; 159:849-50. [PMID: 17172480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
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Feline chlamydiosis: a seroepidemiological investigation of human beings with and without contact with cats. Vet Rec 2006; 159:778-9. [PMID: 17142626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
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DATI PRELIMINARI SULL’ANTIGENICITÀ DELLA PROTEINA PGP3 DI C. PSITTACI. MICROBIOLOGIA MEDICA 2006. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2006.3158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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