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Approximation of Influenza-like illness rates using sleep and cardiorespiratory data from a smart bed. Sleep Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2022.05.785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Defining core patient descriptors for perforated peptic ulcer research: international Delphi. Br J Surg 2022; 109:603-609. [PMID: 35467718 DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znac096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU) remains a common condition globally with significant morbidity and mortality. Previous work has demonstrated variation in reporting of patient characteristics in PPU studies, making comparison of studies and outcomes difficult. The aim of this study was to standardize the reporting of patient characteristics, by creating a core descriptor set (CDS) of important descriptors that should be consistently reported in PPU research. METHODS Candidate descriptors were identified through systematic review and stakeholder proposals. An international Delphi exercise involving three survey rounds was undertaken to obtain consensus on key patient characteristics for future research. Participants rated items on a scale of 1-9 with respect to their importance. Items meeting a predetermined threshold (rated 7-9 by over 70 per cent of stakeholders) were included in the final set and ratified at a consensus meeting. Feedback was provided between rounds to allow refinement of ratings. RESULTS Some 116 clinicians were recruited from 29 countries. A total of 63 descriptors were longlisted from the literature, and 27 were proposed by stakeholders. After three survey rounds and a consensus meeting, 27 descriptors were included in the CDS. These covered demographic variables and co-morbidities, risk factors for PPU, presentation and pathway factors, need for organ support, biochemical parameters, prognostic tools, perforation details, and surgical history. CONCLUSION This study defines the core descriptive items for PPU research, which will allow more robust synthesis of studies.
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Development of a Vascularised Cardiac Organoid Platform Reveals a Regulatory Role for Extracellular Matrix Environment on Muscle Functionality. Heart Lung Circ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2022.06.536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Non-contact measurement of the thickness of a surface film using a superimposed ultrasonic standing wave. ULTRASONICS 2021; 110:106291. [PMID: 33137490 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultras.2020.106291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Most methods used to measure the thickness of thin liquid or solid surface films and coatings need access to the coated surface. In this work reflected ultrasonic pulses were used to measure a coating thickness from a solid back face. Piezoelectric transducers on the solid back face emitted ultrasound waves and received the waves that bounced off the front face. The magnitude of the reflected wave was dependent on the film thickness at the front face. Most pulse-echo ultrasonic approaches use the time-of-flight through the surface layer to determine its thickness. However, as the film becomes thinner, the reflected echoes overlap and there is often an acoustic mismatch between the solid and the surface film that reduces the signal strength. In this work, we propose the use of an ultrasonic continuously repeated chirp longitudinal wave to amplify the effect of the surface film. Multiple reflections interfere within the solid to form a superimposed standing wave whose amplitude spectrum is highly dependent on the surface film thickness thus overcoming the acoustic mismatch problem. Two bare 10 MHz piezoelectric elements were bonded to a 10 mm thick aluminium solid in a pitch-catch arrangement such that one continuously sends repeating chirp ultrasound waves and the other acts as the receiver. The transmitter was set to send a repeating chirp wave of 4 ms duration corresponding to the bandwidth of the transducer in order to maximise signal amplitude. The incident and reflected waves constructively and destructively interfere to form a superimposed standing wave within the solid. The solid/surface film to solid/air boundary condition frequency spectra ratio showed the film resonant frequency modes as minima. Using this technique epoxy coatings ranging from 70 μm to 350 μm were measured and showed a good correlation with independent measurements using a surface profilometer.
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Self-reported motivations for engaging or declining to engage in cyber-dependent offending and the role of autistic traits. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 104:103681. [PMID: 32474231 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cyber-dependent offending, i.e. criminal behaviour reliant on computing and the online domain, has been reportedly associated with particular characteristics and motivations such as being young, male, autistic and motivated by challenge. These associations are anecdotal however and empirical evidence is limited. The present study investigated reasons for engaging or declining to commit cyber-dependent offending in cyber-skilled non-offenders (n = 175) and offenders (n = 7) via an online survey measuring cyber-dependent criminality. The potential role of autism and autistic traits was also considered. Qualitative interviews about motivations for offending were carried out with the offenders. The cyber-dependent offenders reported seven main reasons for engaging in cyber-dependent offending: (1) lack of understanding; (2) entertainment; (3) peer influence; (4) experience and career; (5) anonymity and risk perception; (6) life events; and (7) morals. Twenty-nine (approximately 17 %) of the non-offenders had been asked to engage in cyber-dependent offending but had declined. Their reasons and motivations for declining to commit cyber-dependent offences were compared with the cyber-dependent offenders reasons and motivations for engaging in cybercrime. Seven main reasons for declining to offend were identified: (1) moral principles; (2) perception of risk; (3) fear of consequences; (4) not wanting to; (5) wanting to adhere to the law; (6) behaviour being too complicated; and (7) price being too low. Implications for practise are discussed.
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598 Identification of a human skin commensal bacterium that selectively kills cutibacterium acnes. J Invest Dermatol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2020.03.608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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155 Protein Prenylation is Essential for Cardiomyocyte Proliferation. Heart Lung Circ 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2020.09.162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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ePS6.09 Exophiala isolation in children with cystic fibrosis does not appear to cause clinical decline. J Cyst Fibros 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(19)30295-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Acute C2 Odontoid peg fracture in the cardiac surgical patient. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2018. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2018.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Characteristics of prisoners with intellectual disabilities. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2017; 61:1185-1195. [PMID: 29154489 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have found high rates of intellectual disabilities (ID) in prison. However, little is understood about prisoners with ID. This study aimed to identify prisoners with ID and compare their characteristics with prisoners without neurodevelopmental disorders with regard to demographic profile, mental health, suicide risk and offences. METHOD This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out using face-to-face interviews with 240 participants in a London Category C prison. Standardised tools were used to assess prisoners for ID and mental disorder. RESULTS The study identified 18 prisoners as having ID. Participants with ID were less likely to be from a black or minority ethnic background, be over 35 years of age or have any qualifications. They were more likely to have been single, homeless or unemployed before coming into prison. Prisoners with ID were significantly more likely to have mental health problems and 25% had thought about suicide in the last month and 63% had attempted suicide in the past. Prisoners with ID were also more likely to be housed in the vulnerable prisoners' wing and significantly more likely to have committed robbery than other prisoners. CONCLUSIONS The findings confirm the presence of significant numbers of people with ID with high levels of mental illness in a male prison. Services across the CJS are required for this group, specifically, there is a need for raised awareness among those working in prison about ID and improved skills to recognise offenders with ID and address major gaps in current healthcare provision in prison.
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SFCOMPO-2.0: An OECD NEA database of spent nuclear fuel isotopic assays, reactor design specifications, and operating data. ANN NUCL ENERGY 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2017.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Design and operating characteristic of a vacuum furnace for time-of-flight inelastic neutron scattering measurements. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2017; 88:105116. [PMID: 29092522 DOI: 10.1063/1.5007089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We present the design and operating characteristics of a vacuum furnace used for inelastic neutron scattering experiments on a time-of-flight chopper spectrometer. The device is an actively water cooled radiant heating furnace capable of performing experiments up to 1873 K. Inelastic neutron scattering studies performed with this furnace include studies of phonon dynamics and metallic liquids. We describe the design, control, characterization, and limitations of the equipment. Further, we provide comparisons of the neutron performance of our device with commercially available options. Finally we consider upgrade paths to improve performance and reliability.
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The interpretation of the excess conductivity of HCI in H2O in terms of the intramolecular velocity correlation defect. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1051/jcp/1981780067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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The effect of structure on self-diffusion in concentrated electrolytes : relationship between the water and ionic self-diffusion coefficients for structure-forming salts. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1051/jcp/1978750391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Characteristics of Queensland physicians and the influence of rural exposure on practice location. Intern Med J 2016; 46:981-5. [DOI: 10.1111/imj.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Intramyocardial Delivery of miR-29a Improves Cardiac Function and Prevents Pathological Remodelling Following Myocardial Infarction. Heart Lung Circ 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2016.06.182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Characteristics of prisoners with neurodevelopmental disorders and difficulties. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2016; 60:201-6. [PMID: 26486964 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have found high rates of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disability (ID) within the criminal justice system (CJS). However, little is understood about prisoners with neurodevelopmental disorders and difficulties (NDD) or their needs. This study aimed to identify prisoners with NDD and compare their characteristics with prisoners without NDD on a range of socio-demographic and social functioning measures. METHOD This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study carried out using face-to-face interviews with 240 participants in a London Category C prison. Standardised tools were used to assess prisoners for ADHD, ASD and ID. RESULTS The study identified 87 prisoners who screened positive for one or more type of NDD. Participants with NDD were significantly younger and more likely to be single [(odds ratio) OR = 2.1], homeless (OR = 3.4) or unemployed (OR = 2.6) before they came into prison. They also had poorer educational achievements that those without NDD. Over 80% of those with NDD had a previous conviction or imprisonment. CONCLUSIONS The findings confirm the presence of significant numbers of people with NDD in a male prison. Services across the CJS are required for this group; specifically, there is a need for raised awareness among those working in the CJS to improve the recognition of offenders with NDD. Services in the community need to work with individuals with NDD who are at risk of offending, targeting those who are homeless, unemployed and have poor employment opportunities.
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A new apparatus design for high temperature (up to 950°C) quasi-elastic neutron scattering in a controlled gaseous environment. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2015; 86:095102. [PMID: 26429475 DOI: 10.1063/1.4929580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A design for a sample cell system suitable for high temperature Quasi-Elastic Neutron Scattering (QENS) experiments is presented. The apparatus was developed at the Spallation Neutron Source in Oak Ridge National Lab where it is currently in use. The design provides a special sample cell environment under controlled humid or dry gas flow over a wide range of temperature up to 950 °C. Using such a cell, chemical, dynamical, and physical changes can be studied in situ under various operating conditions. While the cell combined with portable automated gas environment system is especially useful for in situ studies of microscopic dynamics under operational conditions that are similar to those of solid oxide fuel cells, it can additionally be used to study a wide variety of materials, such as high temperature proton conductors. The cell can also be used in many different neutron experiments when a suitable sample holder material is selected. The sample cell system has recently been used to reveal fast dynamic processes in quasi-elastic neutron scattering experiments, which standard probes (such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) could not detect. In this work, we outline the design of the sample cell system and present results demonstrating its abilities in high temperature QENS experiments.
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Direct load monitoring of rolling bearing contacts using ultrasonic time of flight. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2015.0103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The load applied by each rolling element on a bearing raceway controls friction, wear and service life. It is possible to infer bearing load from load cells or strain gauges on the shaft or bearing housing. However, this is not always simply and uniquely related to the real load transmitted by rolling elements directly to the raceway. Firstly, the load sharing between rolling elements in the raceway is statically indeterminate, and secondly, in a machine with non-steady loading, the load path is complex and highly transient being subject to the dynamic behaviour of the transmission system. This study describes a method to measure the load transmitted directly by a rolling element to the raceway by using the time of flight (ToF) of a reflected ultrasonic pulse. A piezoelectric sensor was permanently bonded onto the bore surface of the inner raceway of a cylindrical roller bearing. The ToF of an ultrasonic pulse from the sensor to the roller–raceway contact was measured. This ToF depends on the speed of the wave and the thickness of the raceway. The speed of an ultrasonic wave changes with the state of the stress, known as the acoustoelastic effect. The thickness of the material varies when deflection occurs as the contacting surfaces are subjected to load. In addition, the contact stiffness changes the phase of the reflected signal and in simple peak-to-peak measurement, this appears as a change in the ToF. In this work, the Hilbert transform was used to remove this contact dependent phase shift. Experiments have been performed on both a model line contact and a single row cylindrical roller bearing from the planet gear of a wind turbine epicyclic gearbox. The change in ToF under different bearing loads was recorded and used to determine the deflection of the raceway. This was then related to the bearing load using a simple elastic contact model. Measured load from the ultrasonic reflection was compared with the applied bearing load with good agreement. The technique shows promise as an effective method for load monitoring in real-world bearing applications.
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An in vitro model of acute myocardial damage in human bioengineered heart muscle. Heart Lung Circ 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2015.06.201] [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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Impact of delivery models on understanding genomic risk for type 2 diabetes. Public Health Genomics 2014; 17:95-104. [PMID: 24577154 DOI: 10.1159/000358413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic information, typically communicated in-person by genetic counselors, can be challenging to comprehend; delivery of this information online--as is becoming more common--has the potential of increasing these challenges. METHODS To address the impact of the mode of delivery of genomic risk information, 300 individuals were recruited from the general public and randomized to receive genomic risk information for type 2 diabetes mellitus in-person from a board-certified genetic counselor or online through the testing company's website. RESULTS Participants were asked to indicate their genomic risk and overall lifetime risk as reported on their test report as well as to interpret their genomic risk (increased, decreased, or same as population). For each question, 59% of participants correctly indicated their risk. Participants who received their results in-person were more likely than those who reviewed their results on-line to correctly interpret their genomic risk (72 vs. 47%, p = 0.0002) and report their actual genomic risk (69 vs. 49%, p = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS The delivery of personal genomic risk through a trained health professional resulted in significantly higher comprehension. Therefore, if the online delivery of genomic test results is to become more widespread, further evaluation of this method of communication may be needed to ensure the effective presentation of results to promote comprehension.
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O2 Preoperative exercise protocol to aid recovery of radical cystectomy: Results of a feasibility study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-9056(13)62320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Antipsychotic efficacy and motor tolerability in a phase III placebo-controlled study of pimavanserin in patients with Parkinson's Disease psychosis (Acp-103-020). J Neurol Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2013.07.401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Copy number variation prevalence in known asthma genes and their impact on asthma susceptibility. Clin Exp Allergy 2013; 43:455-62. [PMID: 23517041 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Revised: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic studies have identified numerous genes reproducibly associated with asthma, yet these studies have focussed almost entirely on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and virtually ignored another highly prevalent form of genetic variation: Copy Number Variants (CNVs). OBJECTIVE To survey the prevalence of CNVs in genes previously associated with asthma, and to assess whether CNVs represent the functional asthma-susceptibility variants at these loci. METHODS We genotyped 383 asthmatic trios participating in the Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP) using a competitive genomic hybridization (CGH) array designed to interrogate 20 092 CNVs. To ensure comprehensive assessment of all potential asthma candidate genes, we purposely used liberal asthma gene inclusion criteria, resulting in consideration of 270 candidate genes previously implicated in asthma. We performed statistical testing using FBAT-CNV. RESULTS Copy number variation in asthma candidate genes was prevalent, with 21% of tested genes residing near or within one of 69 CNVs. In six instances, the complete candidate gene sequence resides within the CNV boundaries. On average, asthmatic probands carried six asthma-candidate CNVs (range 1-29). However, the vast majority of identified CNVs were of rare frequency (< 5%) and were not statistically associated with asthma. Modest evidence for association with asthma was observed for 2 CNVs near NOS1 and SERPINA3. Linkage disequilibrium analysis suggests that CNV effects are unlikely to explain previously detected SNP associations with asthma. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Although a substantial proportion of asthma-susceptibility genes harbour polymorphic CNVs, the majority of these variants do not confer increased asthma risk. The lack of linkage disequilibrium (LD) between CNVs and asthma-associated SNPs suggests that these CNVs are unlikely to represent the functional variant responsible for most known asthma associations.
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The anti-viral effect of sorafenib in hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2013; 37:91-7. [PMID: 23094860 PMCID: PMC3682667 DOI: 10.1111/apt.12098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2012] [Revised: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 10/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sorafenib is currently the only approved systemic therapy shown to have efficacy in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent studies suggest that hepatitis C (HCV)-related HCC patients derive more clinical benefit from sorafenib than other subgroups, but the mechanism for this effect is unknown. In vitro data suggest that sorafenib may exert anti-viral properties, and thus our aim in this study was to evaluate potential anti-viral activity of sorafenib in patients with HCV-related HCC. AIM To evaluate potential anti-viral activity of sorafenib in patients with HCV-related HCC. METHODS We prospectively enrolled patients with HCV-related HCC treated with sorafenib for up to 6 months. Baseline clinical, viral and oncologic data were collected. Patients' HCV viral loads were obtained at various time points, and compared with their baseline viral levels. No patients received any known anti-viral therapy during this time. RESULTS Thirty-three patients were identified with baseline and subsequent HCV levels available for analysis. Six patients completed 6 months of full dose sorafenib, and comparisons of their HCV viral loads showed no significant change at week 24 (difference of means = 0.3500, CI: -0.1799-0.8799, P = 0.150), or the interim time points. Similarly, the HCV viral loads of all patients who received sorafenib and the viral loads of those patients who had tumour response to sorafenib showed no significant changes at any time point. CONCLUSION Despite preclinical data and previous subgroup analyses suggesting that sorafenib has an anti-viral effect against HCV, this study suggests that sorafenib lacks significant anti-viral activity in HCV patients with HCC.
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Primary care physicians' knowledge of and experience with pharmacogenetic testing. Clin Genet 2012; 82:388-94. [PMID: 22698141 PMCID: PMC3440554 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2012.01908.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2012] [Revised: 05/30/2012] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
It is anticipated that as the range of drugs for which pharmacogenetic testing becomes available expands, primary care physicians (PCPs) will become major users of these tests. To assess their training, familiarity, and attitudes toward pharmacogenetic testing in order to identify barriers to uptake that may be addressed at this early stage of test use, we conducted a national survey of a sample of PCPs. Respondents were mostly white (79%), based primarily in community-based primary care (81%) and almost evenly divided between family medicine and internal medicine. The majority of respondents had heard of PGx testing and anticipated that these tests are or would soon become a valuable tool to inform drug response. However, only a minority of respondents (13%) indicated they felt comfortable ordering PGx tests and almost a quarter reported not having any education about pharmacogenetics. Our results indicate that primary care practitioners envision a major role for themselves in the delivery of PGx testing but recognize their lack of adequate knowledge and experience about these tests. Development of effective tools for guiding PCPs in the use of PGx tests should be a high priority.
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Abstract
Pharmacogenetic (PGx) testing aims to improve therapeutic outcomes through tailoring treatment based on a patient's genetic risk for non-response and/or an adverse event. Given their expertise, geneticists could facilitate the use of PGx testing; however, the preparedness and perceived role of the clinical genetics community is unclear. To assess the attitudes, preparedness, and perceived roles of geneticists in the delivery of PGx testing, we conducted a survey of 1500 randomly selected board-certified genetic counselors and clinical geneticists in the United States [response rate: 37.8% (n = 516)]. Twelve percent of genetic counselors and 41% of clinical geneticists indicated that they had ordered or coordinated patient care for PGx testing, a seemingly high proportion at this early stage of adoption. Almost all respondents had some education on pharmacogenetics, although only 28% of counselors and 58% of clinical geneticists indicated they felt well-informed about PGx testing. About half of counselors (52%) and clinical geneticists (46%) felt they would play 'some' role in the delivery of PGx testing; 17 and 19%, respectively, felt that they would play 'no' or 'a little' role. At this early stage of PGx testing, the role of geneticists and genetic counselors is unclear. However, their experience may aid in readying PGx testing and informing delivery strategies into clinical practice.
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175 Sinonasal disease in adult CF patients: prevalence and management in Wales. J Cyst Fibros 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(12)60345-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Do patient-reported outcomes have a role in the management of patients with cystic fibrosis? Front Pharmacol 2012; 3:38. [PMID: 22416231 PMCID: PMC3298894 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2012.00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2011] [Accepted: 02/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a rapidly growing area of expertise and the most commonly used patient-reported outcome (PRO). The impact of cystic fibrosis (CF) on HRQoL is liable to be great, making CF patients ideal candidates for the application of HRQoL instruments. The aims of this study were to assess the affect of CF on HRQoL, to ascertain the reliability and validity of the United Kingdom Sickness Impact Profile (UKSIP) and the Cystic Fibrosis Quality of Life Questionnaire (CFQoL) in the adult CF population, and to examine their role in the management of patients. METHODS Seventy participants were recruited from the All Wales Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre at Llandough Hospital, UK. There were two stages to the study: self-report of the UKSIP and CFQoL; and completion of the same two questionnaires 7-10 days later. RESULTS The areas of HRQoL most impaired by CF were employment and concerns regarding the future. The UKSIP and CFQoL showed high internal consistency (rα = 0.89-0.93) and test-retest reliability (r(s) = 0.57-0.94, p < 0.005) in the CF population. Validity was variable with the UKSIP showing discrimination across socio-demographic factors, whilst the CFQoL showed increased sensitivity to clinical variables. Many parameters influenced patient-reported HRQoL, with the greatest correlations seen with the Borg score (p < 0.005). The use of a HRQoL instrument in CF annual reviews is recommended to provide holistic patient care. The results of this study underpin the value of HRQoL as a patient-reported outcome measure in the management of adult CF.
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2.277 OPTIMIZATION OF PHASE III STUDY DESIGN FOR PIMAVANSERIN IN THE TREATMENT OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE PSYCHOSIS (PDP). Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s1353-8020(11)70600-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Velocity Correlations in Aqueous Electrolyte Solutions from Diffusion, Conductance, and Transference Data. Part 2, Applications to Concentrated Solutions of 1-1 Electrolytes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1002/bbpc.19770810708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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P1.181 Parkinson's Disease Psychosis (PDP): An under-diagnosed condition in spite of its prevalence and impact. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s1353-8020(09)70303-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Can automated blood film analysis replace the manual differential? An evaluation of the CellaVision DM96 automated image analysis system. Int J Lab Hematol 2009; 31:48-60. [PMID: 18177438 DOI: 10.1111/j.1751-553x.2007.01002.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Evaluation of an early warning score (EWS) in cystic fibrosis: a retrospective study. J Cyst Fibros 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(08)60233-7] [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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Comprehensive Clinical Examination of Oropharyngeal Swallowing Function: Veterans Administration Procedure. Semin Speech Lang 2008. [DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1064226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION The objective of this study was to determine the value of routine urine cytology in the initial evaluation of patients presenting to a one-stop haematuria clinic. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 1000 consecutive patients who attended the haematuria clinic between June 2003 and November 2004 were studied prospectively. A standard protocol was used to investigate these patients. This included urine cytology, upper tract imaging and flexible cystoscopy. RESULTS Overall, 986 samples of urine were sent for cytology. In 126 patients, the report was abnormal; of these, 71 patients were found to have bladder transitional cell carcinoma by flexible cystoscopy and a further 3 had upper tract transitional cell carcinoma diagnosed radiologically. The remaining 52 patients with abnormal cytology were not found to have cancer on further investigations. The total cost for urine cytology and additional investigations was pound50,535. CONCLUSIONS In this study of the initial evaluation of patients with haematuria, no case of urothelial malignancy was diagnosed on the basis of urine cytology alone. Therefore, urine cytology need not be used routinely in the initial diagnostic work-up for haematuria.
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Chronic Serial Infusion of Nesiritide Is Not Associated with Worsening Renal Function in Chronic Decompensated Heart Failure Patients with Renal Insufficiency: An Analysis from the FUSION-II Trial. J Card Fail 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2007.06.524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Role of open-ended questionnaires in patients with balance symptoms. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2007; 122:139-44. [PMID: 17592658 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215107009073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIntroduction:A clear and detailed clinical history is essential in the assessment of patients with balance symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of open-ended questionnaires in the specialist balance clinic.Methods:Fifty-four consecutive new patients completed an open-ended questionnaire, prior to a consultation in which the clinical history was taken using a standardised proforma. The results of the two were compared.Results:The open-ended questionnaires provided patient-centred data, and did not provide clinicians with sufficient data for diagnosis. Patients were more likely to respond in the affirmative when asked about symptoms directly, than to report the same symptoms spontaneously on an open-ended questionnaire. When questions had a number of possible answers, patients were more likely to report them in full in an open-ended questionnaire than to provide a response during direct questioning.
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315 Are the patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of value in annual review (AR) of adult patients with CF? J Cyst Fibros 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(07)60290-2] [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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Sacculo-collic response in otosclerosis and following successful stapes surgery. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2007; 122:347-50. [PMID: 17349100 DOI: 10.1017/s002221510700655x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIntroduction:The sacculo-collic reflex is believed to be a short latency, otolith-mediated myogenic response to sound. With the application of air-conducted sound, one would expect an absent response in stapes fixation, as a fixed stapes footplate will not transmit a pressure wave to the saccule.Methods:Fifty patients (70 stapes surgery ears, 26 otosclerotic ears and four normal ears) and 40 controls underwent repeated sacculo-collic tests.Results:The results support the proposed mechanism for the sacculo-collic response. The study also suggests that, whilst stapedotomy piston prostheses are effective in the reversal of conductive hearing loss, they produce an insufficient pressure wave to elicit a myogenic response to sound.Conclusion:The sacculo-collic test could be a useful tool for screening otolith function and inferior vestibular nerve integrity, but further work is needed to determine the effect of stapes surgery on saccular function.
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MECHANICAL TESTING OF CROSS-LINKED HYDROGELS FOR NUCLEUS PULPOSUS REPLACEMENT. J Biomech 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9290(07)70268-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Experimental study on heat transmission to the vestibule during CO2 laser use in revision stapes surgery. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2006; 121:5-8. [PMID: 17076928 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215106002672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
We studied the transmission of heat to the vestibule during revision stapes surgery with a piston in situ, using a CO2 laser, in an in vitro model. A type K thermocouple was placed around the medial end of stainless steel and fluoroplastic wire pistons in a 'vestibule' filled with saline. The effect of laser hits on fluoroplastic wire and stainless steel stapes prostheses was investigated. The effect of introducing a vein graft to seal the stapedotomy was also examined. Greater temperature rises occurred with stainless steel than with fluoroplastic wire pistons. The addition of the vein graft reduced heat transmission. Application of the CO2 laser to fluoroplastic wire pistons, using the power settings suggested by the manufacturer, is not likely to damage the inner-ear structures. Application of 6 W laser energy to stainless steel pistons can potentially disturb the inner-ear function.
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