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1.
Diabet Med ; 37(5): 735-746, 2020 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32022290

ABSTRACT

AIM: We conducted a systematic review aggregate and network meta-analysis of psychological interventions for people with type 1 diabetes to assess their effectiveness in improving glycaemic levels. METHODS: We searched the following databases from 1 January 2003 to 1 July 2018: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Cochrane Controlled Trials, Web of Science, clinicaltrials.gov, Dissertation Abstract International. We included randomized controlled trials (RCT) of psychological interventions for children and adults with type 1 diabetes reported in any language. We extracted data on publications, participant characteristics at baseline, intervention and control group, and data for the primary outcome, change in glycaemic control [HbA1c (mmol/mol/%)]. Study authors were contacted for missing data. The review was registered with international prospective register of systematic reviews registration (PROSPERO) CRD42016033619. RESULTS: Twenty-four adult RCTs and 23 of children with type 1 diabetes were included in the systematic review. In aggregate meta-analysis there was no overall effect of psychological intervention compared with control on HbA1c [adults, nine RCTs, n = 1102, pooled mean difference -0.12, 95% confidence intervals (CI) -0.27 to 0.03, I2 = 29.0%, P = 0.19; children, 20 RCTs, n = 2567, -0.09, 95% CI -0.22 to 0.04, I2 =54.0% P=0.002]. Network meta-analysis suggested that probability and rank-ordering of effectiveness is highest for attention control groups (b = -0.47, 95% CI -0.80 to -0.12) followed by cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) (-0.26, 95% CI -0.45 to -0.06) compared with usual care for adults. CONCLUSIONS: Overall psychological interventions for children and adults with type 1 diabetes do not improve glycaemic control. For adults, CBT-based interventions have the potential to be effective.


Subject(s)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Counseling , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/therapy , Family Therapy , Adult , Child , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/metabolism , Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/psychology , Glycated Hemoglobin/metabolism , Glycemic Control , Humans , Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
2.
BMC Vet Res ; 15(1): 59, 2019 Feb 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30755193

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Equine laminitis is a complex disease that manifests as pain and lameness in the feet, often with debilitating consequences. There is a paucity of data that accounts for the multifactorial nature of laminitis and considers time-varying covariates that may be associated with disease development; particularly those that are modifiable and present potential interventions. A previous case-control study identified a number of novel, modifiable factors associated with laminitis which warranted further investigation and corroboration. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with equine laminitis in horses/ponies in Great Britain (GB) using a prospective, web-based cohort study design, with particular interest in evaluating modifiable factors previously identified in the case-control study. RESULTS: Self-selected horse/pony owners in GB submitted initial baseline and follow-up health and management questionnaires for 1070 horses/ponies between August 2014 and December 2016. The enrolled horses/ponies contributed 1068 horse-years at risk with a median of 38 days between questionnaire submissions. Owners reported 123 owner-recognised and/or veterinary-diagnosed episodes of active laminitis using a previously-validated laminitis reporting form. Multivariable Cox regression modelling identified 16 risk/protective factors associated with laminitis development. In keeping with the previous case-control study, a prior history of laminitis (particularly non-veterinary-diagnosed episodes), soreness after shoeing/trimming and weight gain were associated with higher rates of laminitis. There is now strong evidence that these risk factors should be used to guide future recommendations in disease prevention. Factors with some prior evidence of association included breed, steroidal anti-inflammatory administration, transport and worming. The modifiable factors amongst these should be the focus of future laminitis studies. The remainder of the identified factors relating to health, turnout and grazing management and feeding are novel, and require further investigation to explore their relationship with laminitis and their applicability as potential interventions. CONCLUSIONS: This study has demonstrated a temporal relationship between a number of horse- and management-level factors and laminitis, identifying potential interventions and important risk groups for which these interventions would be of particular importance. These results serve as a sound evidence-base towards the development of strategic recommendations for the horse/pony-owning population to reduce the rate of laminitis in GB.


Subject(s)
Foot Diseases/veterinary , Hoof and Claw , Horse Diseases/etiology , Animal Husbandry , Animals , Female , Foot Diseases/etiology , Foot Diseases/prevention & control , Horse Diseases/prevention & control , Horses , Lameness, Animal/etiology , Lameness, Animal/prevention & control , Male , Prospective Studies , Risk Factors , Surveys and Questionnaires , United Kingdom
3.
Haemophilia ; 23(2): 247-254, 2017 Mar.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28092925

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Successful outcomes in dental management for patients with inherited bleeding disorders require close collaboration between haematology teams and dentists. AIM: To review outcomes of an interdisciplinary pathway for dental procedures by assessing adequacy and appropriateness of haemostatic management. METHODS: Two hundred dental procedures in 30 patients with inherited bleeding disorders were included. A Dental Bleeding Risk Assessment and Treatment Tool (DeBRATT) was developed to identify four categories of bleeding risk (no risk, low, moderate and high risk of bleeding) in relation to the severity of the bleeding disorder and the invasiveness of dental procedure. The adequacy and appropriateness of haemostatic therapy provided in relation to the bleeding risk was assessed with reference to the published literature. Treatment was classified as appropriate, over or under-treatment. Bleeding complication was the primary outcome. RESULTS: A high level of dental disease was noted, with 83% of patients having at least one decayed tooth and 46.7% having chronic gum disease. A total of 59.1% of the dental procedures in patients with mild bleeding disorders were over-treated (n = 65/110) and 8.9% in patients with severe disorders had an extended duration of treatment (n = 7/79). One bleeding complication was observed in a patient with Von Willebrand's disease and severe thrombocytopenia. All other procedures (99.5%) were uneventful. CONCLUSION: DeBRATT enables a risk-based approach for the management of dental procedures in patients with inherited bleeding disorders. The tool facilitates a comprehensive evaluation of bleeding risk with the potential to minimize unnecessary treatment and aid interdisciplinary communication among different clinical teams.


Subject(s)
Dental Care/adverse effects , Hemorrhage/etiology , von Willebrand Diseases/complications , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Humans , Middle Aged , Risk Assessment , Young Adult
4.
Nature ; 458(7236): 322-8, 2009 Mar 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-19295607

ABSTRACT

Thirty years after oxygen isotope records from microfossils deposited in ocean sediments confirmed the hypothesis that variations in the Earth's orbital geometry control the ice ages, fundamental questions remain over the response of the Antarctic ice sheets to orbital cycles. Furthermore, an understanding of the behaviour of the marine-based West Antarctic ice sheet (WAIS) during the 'warmer-than-present' early-Pliocene epoch ( approximately 5-3 Myr ago) is needed to better constrain the possible range of ice-sheet behaviour in the context of future global warming. Here we present a marine glacial record from the upper 600 m of the AND-1B sediment core recovered from beneath the northwest part of the Ross ice shelf by the ANDRILL programme and demonstrate well-dated, approximately 40-kyr cyclic variations in ice-sheet extent linked to cycles in insolation influenced by changes in the Earth's axial tilt (obliquity) during the Pliocene. Our data provide direct evidence for orbitally induced oscillations in the WAIS, which periodically collapsed, resulting in a switch from grounded ice, or ice shelves, to open waters in the Ross embayment when planetary temperatures were up to approximately 3 degrees C warmer than today and atmospheric CO(2) concentration was as high as approximately 400 p.p.m.v. (refs 5, 6). The evidence is consistent with a new ice-sheet/ice-shelf model that simulates fluctuations in Antarctic ice volume of up to +7 m in equivalent sea level associated with the loss of the WAIS and up to +3 m in equivalent sea level from the East Antarctic ice sheet, in response to ocean-induced melting paced by obliquity. During interglacial times, diatomaceous sediments indicate high surface-water productivity, minimal summer sea ice and air temperatures above freezing, suggesting an additional influence of surface melt under conditions of elevated CO(2).


Subject(s)
Ice Cover , Antarctic Regions , Atmosphere/analysis , Atmosphere/chemistry , Calibration , Carbon Dioxide/analysis , Diatoms/chemistry , Diatoms/isolation & purification , Fossils , History, Ancient , Oxygen Isotopes , Temperature
5.
J Radiol Prot ; 34(2): 457-67, 2014 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24894188

ABSTRACT

Long term outdoor radon measurements were recorded in Ireland using CR-39 track etch detectors. A measurement protocol was designed for this study, which was optimized for the relatively low radon concentrations expected outdoors. This protocol included pre-etching the detectors before exposure to allow radon tracks to be more easily distinguished from background. The average outdoor radon concentration for the Republic of Ireland was found to be 5.6 ± 0.7 Bq m(-3). A statistically significant difference between inland and coastal radon concentrations was evident but no difference between mean radon concentrations on the east coast and those on the west coast was observed.


Subject(s)
Algorithms , Background Radiation , Optical Devices , Radiation Monitoring/instrumentation , Radon/analysis , Equipment Design , Equipment Failure Analysis , Ireland , Reproducibility of Results , Sensitivity and Specificity
6.
Haemophilia ; 19(5): e276-81, 2013 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23607927

ABSTRACT

Haemophilia carriers and women with inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) experience menorrhagia, bleed following dentistry, surgery, injury or childbirth. Symptoms are easily treated leading to full and active lives. Nevertheless, some girls and women suffer with abnormal bleeding for many years before diagnosis. We explored the experiences of girls and young women (aged 9-34 years) with IBD by means of focus groups which consisted of moderated discussion addressing specific aspects of bleeding, management and coping strategies. Subsequently, these issues were explored further though a paper-based questionnaire distributed via five specialist haemophilia centres in the UK. The study suggested that young women with IBD who are managed at haemophilia centres receive appropriate care and feel well supported. Although the clinic-based literature available to these women is "fit for purpose", it does not fully address the perceived needs specifically regarding sex, menorrhagia, conception and childbirth, the Pill, tattoos/piercings and so on, leading many to turn to other information sources. Most of those who responded to our survey are confident in their lives, able to manage their IBD and take pragmatic views towards the inherited nature of their condition. But there is a substantial subgroup of women who experience stigmatization, isolation and bullying and express concerns relating to fertility and conception. Overall, this cohort would benefit from opportunities for mutual support. This could be via Internet-based social networking and may be of particular value to those who are unable to seek help from traditional medical services due to religious or other cultural barriers.


Subject(s)
Blood Coagulation Disorders, Inherited/psychology , Hemophilia A/psychology , Adolescent , Adult , Blood Coagulation Disorders, Inherited/diagnosis , Blood Coagulation Disorders, Inherited/therapy , Child , Female , Hemophilia A/diagnosis , Hemophilia A/therapy , Humans , Menorrhagia/diagnosis , Menorrhagia/psychology , Menorrhagia/therapy , Surveys and Questionnaires , Women's Health , Young Adult
7.
Haemophilia ; 19 Suppl 4: 1-10, 2013 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24102860

ABSTRACT

Women with inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) require the input of a multidisciplinary team to improve outcomes of pregnancy. The role of the haemophilia nurse within the multidisciplinary team is to provide educational and emotional support to the women and to facilitate and co-ordinate patient-centred care. Prenatal diagnosis in cases of haemophilia is an integral part of the management of early pregnancy with a recent drive towards non-invasive prenatal diagnostic techniques. There is a current lack of data on the risk of miscarriage and bleeding complications during pregnancy. A clear association has only been established in women with fibrinogen and factor XIII deficiency. In the affected neonate with severe bleeding disorders such as haemophilia, the risk of head bleeding is significant, and appropriate management of labour and delivery has an important impact on reducing the risk. Women with IBD are at risk of both primary and secondary postpartum haemorrhage. Appropriate risk assessment and advance planning for haemostatic cover can reduce the bleeding risk.


Subject(s)
Blood Coagulation Disorders, Inherited/complications , Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic/diagnosis , Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic/drug therapy , Delivery of Health Care , Delivery, Obstetric , Female , Humans , Interdisciplinary Communication , Obstetric Nursing , Patient Care Management , Postpartum Hemorrhage , Pregnancy , Prenatal Diagnosis
8.
Nat Genet ; 26(3): 379-82, 2000 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-11062485

ABSTRACT

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases produce 3'-phosphorylated phosphoinositides that act as second messengers to recruit other signalling proteins to the membrane. Pi3ks are activated by many extracellular stimuli and have been implicated in a variety of cellular responses. The Pi3k gene family is complex and the physiological roles of different classes and isoforms are not clear. The gene Pik3r1 encodes three proteins (p85 alpha, p55 alpha and p50 alpha) that serve as regulatory subunits of class IA Pi3ks (ref. 2). Mice lacking only the p85 alpha isoform are viable but display hypoglycaemia and increased insulin sensitivity correlating with upregulation of the p55 alpha and p50 alpha variants. Here we report that loss of all protein products of Pik3r1 results in perinatal lethality. We observed, among other abnormalities, extensive hepatocyte necrosis and chylous ascites. We also noted enlarged skeletal muscle fibres, brown fat necrosis and calcification of cardiac tissue. In liver and muscle, loss of the major regulatory isoform caused a great decrease in expression and activity of class IA Pi3k catalytic subunits; nevertheless, homozygous mice still displayed hypoglycaemia, lower insulin levels and increased glucose tolerance. Our findings reveal that p55 alpha and/or p50 alpha are required for survival, but not for development of hypoglycaemia, in mice lacking p85 alpha.


Subject(s)
Abnormalities, Multiple/genetics , Chylous Ascites/genetics , Genes, Lethal , Hypoglycemia/genetics , Liver/pathology , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/deficiency , Protein Isoforms/deficiency , Adipose Tissue, Brown/pathology , Animals , Animals, Outbred Strains , Calcinosis/genetics , Cardiomyopathies/genetics , Catalysis , Crosses, Genetic , Dimerization , Enzyme Induction , Female , Genes , Genotype , Germ-Free Life , Glucose/metabolism , Glucose/pharmacology , Hypertrophy , Insulin/pharmacology , Male , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Mice, Inbred ICR , Mice, Knockout , Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/pathology , Necrosis , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/genetics , Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinases/physiology , Phosphorylation , Protein Isoforms/genetics , Protein Isoforms/physiology , Protein Processing, Post-Translational/genetics , Protein Subunits , Second Messenger Systems/genetics
9.
Vet J ; 274: 105711, 2021 Aug.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-34182072

ABSTRACT

The Australian Cattle dog (ACD) is one of many breeds predisposed to congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD). The objective of this study was to estimate CSD prevalence and investigate any association with phenotype in the ACD in the UK. The database of the authors' institution was searched for ACD puppies undergoing brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing for CSD screening (1999-2019). Inclusion criteria were BAER performed at 4-10 weeks of age, testing of complete litters and available phenotypic data. The age, sex, coat and iris colour, presence and location of face and body patches, hearing status and BAER- determined parental hearing status of each puppy were recorded. A multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression model was used to calculate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to determine whether any of these variables were significantly associated with CSD, while adjusting for clustering at litter level. Inclusion criteria were met for 524 puppies. Hearing was bilaterally normal in 464 puppies (88.6%). The prevalence of unilateral and bilateral CSD was 9.7% and 1.7%, respectively. On the basis of multivariable analysis, the presence of a pigmented face patch was the only phenotypic variable significantly associated with CSD, and was linked to a reduced risk of the condition. The prevalence was similar to that reported in an Australian population of ACDs. The key findings from this study were that overall CSD prevalence in the ACD population in the UK was 11.4%, and puppies with a face patch were at reduced risk of the condition.


Subject(s)
Dog Diseases/congenital , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/veterinary , Pigmentation , Animals , Dog Diseases/epidemiology , Dog Diseases/genetics , Dogs , Eye Color , Female , Genetic Predisposition to Disease , Hair , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/congenital , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/epidemiology , Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/genetics , Male , Phenotype , Prevalence , United Kingdom/epidemiology
10.
Prev Vet Med ; 174: 104833, 2020 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31751854

ABSTRACT

Euthanasia is a complex topic, with animal owners using multiple factors to shape their decision-making process. Previous epidemiological studies have described causes of equine mortality in specific populations, but there is limited evidence regarding factors contributing specifically to equine euthanasia in Great Britain (GB). This observational study used a prospective cohort design: the objectives were to describe owner-reported reasons for euthanasia, estimate the rate of euthanasia and identify associated factors in horses/ponies enrolled in a web-based epidemiological study of laminitis in GB. Self-selected horse/pony owners submitted regular management and health data over 29 months and reported dates and reasons for euthanasia during this period. The overall incidence of euthanasia was estimated and associated factors were identified using multivariable Cox regression modelling, adjusted for age, with variables retained in the final model if P ≤ 0.05. Data were available for 1070 horses/ponies contributing 1093 horse-years at risk (HYAR), with 80 owner-reported euthanasias. The incidence of euthanasia was 7.3 euthanasias per 100 HYAR (95 % confidence interval [CI] 5.9, 9.1). The most frequently reported health reasons contributing to euthanasia were laminitis-related consequences (25.0 % ; CI 16.8, 35.5 %), colic (21.3 % ; CI 13.7, 31.4 %), non-laminitic lameness (20.0 % ; CI 12.7, 30.1 %) and age-related deterioration, including owner-perceived compromised quality of life (20.0 % ; CI 12.7, 30.1 %). Health-related factors associated with significantly higher rates of euthanasia were colic (hazard ratio [HR] 26.4; CI 12.5, 55.8), pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (HR 3.0; CI 1.7, 5.4) and lameness due to navicular syndrome (HR 5.9; CI 1.8, 20.0), soft tissue injury (HR 6.5; CI 2.7, 15.6) or laminitis (HR 2.7; CI 1.3, 5.7). Further factors included being pure bred (HR 1.7; CI 1.0, 2.8), female (HR 1.7; CI 1.0, 2.9), having poor owner-perceived hoof quality (HR 2.4; CI 1.1, 5.2), being entirely stabled (HR 5.0; HR 2.1, 12.0), being on loan or under temporary care of the study participant (HR 2.3; CI 1.2, 4.4) and participating in affiliated or professional competitions (HR 5.9; CI 2.4, 14.8). Euthanasia rates were significantly higher in the first two study years compared to the third (P < 0.001). Animals whose owners used the study's custom-designed weight tracker tool had significantly lower rates of euthanasia (HR 0.6; CI 0.3, 0.95). This study has identified a number of, arguably preventable, health-related factors associated with higher rates of euthanasia. Data on owners' decision-making process regarding euthanasia, including emotive and financial impacts, were not recorded but are important contributors to euthanasia that require better understanding.


Subject(s)
Euthanasia/statistics & numerical data , Foot Diseases/veterinary , Horse Diseases/etiology , Animals , England , Foot Diseases/etiology , Horses , Proportional Hazards Models , Prospective Studies , Quality of Life , Scotland , Wales
11.
J Small Anim Pract ; 61(5): 272-277, 2020 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32073144

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine contamination rates of scrub suits worn by veterinary surgeons and nurses following a single shift. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional preliminary study at a UK small animal referral centre. Sterilised scrub suits were distributed to veterinary surgeons (n = 9) and nurses (n = 9) at the beginning of their clinical shift and worn for at least 8 hours. They were then analysed for bacterial contamination before and after home laundry at 30°C. A questionnaire was distributed to hospital clinical staff regarding workwear habits. RESULTS: Median bacterial counts were 47 (interquartile range: 14 to 162) and 7 (interquartile range: 0 to 27) colony forming units per cm2 before and after laundering scrub suits. Bacteria identified included Staphylococcus sp., Enterococcus sp., Escherichia coli , Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Micrococcus sp., ß-haemolytic Streptococci and a Group G Streptococcus. From 101 staff surveyed, 64.0% reported wearing fresh, clean scrub tops and 58.4% fresh, clean trousers each day, while 64.4% left the workplace wearing the same clothing in which they undertook clinical work. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Workwear contamination risks spread of pathogens into the community and personnel compliance with workplace guidelines warrants further attention. Home laundry at 30°C significantly decreases, but does not eliminate, the bacterial burden after a single shift.


Subject(s)
Equipment Contamination , Protective Clothing , Animals , Bacterial Load/veterinary , Cross-Sectional Studies , Habits , Humans , Protective Clothing/microbiology , Referral and Consultation
12.
J Geophys Res Atmos ; 125(22): e2020JD032794, 2020 Nov 27.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-33777605

ABSTRACT

TanSat is the 1st Chinese carbon dioxide (CO2) measurement satellite, launched in 2016. In this study, the University of Leicester Full Physics (UoL-FP) algorithm is implemented for TanSat nadir mode XCO2 retrievals. We develop a spectrum correction method to reduce the retrieval errors by the online fitting of an 8th order Fourier series. The spectrum-correction model and its a priori parameters are developed by analyzing the solar calibration measurement. This correction provides a significant improvement to the O2 A band retrieval. Accordingly, we extend the previous TanSat single CO2 weak band retrieval to a combined O2 A and CO2 weak band retrieval. A Genetic Algorithm (GA) has been applied to determine the threshold values of post-screening filters. In total, 18.3% of the retrieved data is identified as high quality compared to the original measurements. The same quality control parameters have been used in a footprint independent multiple linear regression bias correction due to the strong correlation with the XCO2 retrieval error. Twenty sites of the Total Column Carbon Observing Network (TCCON) have been selected to validate our new approach for the TanSat XCO2 retrieval. We show that our new approach produces a significant improvement on the XCO2 retrieval accuracy and precision when compared to TCCON with an average bias and RMSE of -0.08 ppm and 1.47 ppm, respectively. The methods used in this study can help to improve the XCO2 retrieval from TanSat and subsequently the Level-2 data production, and hence will be applied in the TanSat operational XCO2 processing.

13.
Science ; 160(3824): 206-7, 1968 Apr 12.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-4230607

ABSTRACT

The frequency of congenital cleft palate produced by maternal treatment with 6-aminonicotinamide during pregnancy is lower in the C57BL/6J than in the A/J inbred mouse strain. In the C57BL/6J strain the frequency is lower when the mothers are maintained on Purina Lab Chow than when they are on Breeder Chow. A/J females do not show this effect of diet. There is a matroclinous reciprocal cross difference in frequency of induced cleft palate which persists in the back-cross when the F(1) mothers are maintained on Lab Chow but not on Breeder Chow.


Subject(s)
Abnormalities, Drug-Induced , Cleft Palate/chemically induced , Extrachromosomal Inheritance , Maternal-Fetal Exchange , Niacinamide/toxicity , Pregnancy, Animal , Animals , Diet , Female , Hybridization, Genetic , Inbreeding , Mice , Pregnancy
15.
Equine Vet J ; 51(5): 587-594, 2019 Sep.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-30516850

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Previous robust epidemiological studies of equine laminitis have utilised only veterinary-diagnosed episodes of disease, potentially underestimating true disease frequency. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the incidence of, and describe clinical signs associated with, owner-reported active laminitis in horses/ponies, using both veterinary-diagnosed and nonveterinary-diagnosed episodes. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort. METHODS: Data were collected from horse/pony owners in Great Britain between August 2014 and December 2016 using a web-based application. The incidence of owner-reported laminitis was estimated using both first incident and repeat episodes reported during the study period via a previously validated laminitis reporting form. Owner-reported clinical signs present in these episodes were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 1070 horses/ponies contributed 1068 horse-years at risk (HYAR) and 123 active laminitis episodes were reported in 97 animals. Sixty-two of these episodes (50.4%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 41.6, 59.2%) were veterinary-diagnosed and 75.3% (CI 66.7, 83.8%; n = 73) of horses/ponies reported to have laminitis during the study had a previous laminitis history. Overall owner-reported first episode incidence was 9.6 episodes (CI 7.8, 11.7)/100 HYAR, whereas incidence including repeat episodes was 11.5 episodes (CI 9.7, 13.7)/100 HYAR. Laminitis occurred throughout the year with no significant differences between seasonal incidence estimates. Incidence was highest in Connemara and New Forest and lowest in Draught and Cob breed categories. The most prevalent owner-reported clinical signs (≥70%) were difficulty turning and a short/stilted or lame walk. Laminitis was reported in all limbs, however; both forelimbs were most commonly affected (62.9%, CI 54.1, 71.7%; n = 73/116). MAIN LIMITATIONS: Self-selection enrolment of participants may limit generalisability of the findings. CONCLUSIONS: Laminitis remains a considerable year-round welfare issue of horses and ponies, with frequency estimates utilising owner-reported data more representative of the true impact of the disease. The clinical signs reported by horse/pony owners were reflective of those previously described by veterinary surgeons.


Subject(s)
Foot Diseases/veterinary , Hoof and Claw/pathology , Horse Diseases/epidemiology , Inflammation/veterinary , Animals , Cohort Studies , Foot Diseases/epidemiology , Foot Diseases/pathology , Horses , Incidence , Inflammation/epidemiology , Inflammation/pathology , Seasons , United Kingdom/epidemiology
17.
Haemophilia ; 14(1): 56-64, 2008 Jan.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17941828

ABSTRACT

The aim of the study was to review the complications, management and outcome of pregnancy in carriers of haemophilia over a 10-year period following the introduction of a multidisciplinary management guideline. Comparison was made to a 10-year cohort prior to implementation of the guidelines. A retrospective review of case notes of carriers of haemophilia (41 haemophilia A, 12 haemophilia B) who had received obstetric care at the Royal Free Hospital between 1995 and 2005 was conducted. There were 90 pregnancies (65 live births, 13 miscarriages, 12 terminations). Prenatal testing was taken up in 97% (63/65) of pregnancies where the mother was known to be a carrier of haemophilia. The majority (71%; 46/65) chose only to have non-invasive fetal sex determination. Seventeen (26%) had invasive testing (13 primarily for haemophilia and four primarily for chromosomal abnormalities). Termination of pregnancy was opted for in 67% (6/9) of pregnancies affected with haemophilia. Pregnancy was accompanied by a marked rise in factor VIII levels compared to only a small rise in factor IX levels. Invasive intrapartum monitoring techniques and instrumental deliveries were avoided in all pregnancies known to be at risk of haemophilia. Regional block was performed in 25 pregnancies for labour/delivery with no complications. The caesarean section rate was 47%. The incidence of primary and secondary postpartum haemorrhage was 19% and 2%, respectively. There were two neonatal head bleeding complications associated with prolonged labour or instrumental delivery. Availability of management guideline and care provided in a multidisciplinary approach can help to minimize bleeding complications in carriers of haemophilia and their newborns.


Subject(s)
Hemophilia A/complications , Heterozygote , Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic/etiology , Cohort Studies , Female , Hemophilia A/epidemiology , Hemorrhage/etiology , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Male , Practice Guidelines as Topic , Pregnancy , Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic/epidemiology , Pregnancy Outcome , Prenatal Diagnosis , Retrospective Studies
18.
J Environ Radioact ; 99(10): 1578-82, 2008 Oct.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-18243446

ABSTRACT

The RPII radon (Rn) laboratory holds accreditation for the International Standard ISO/IEC 17025. A requirement of this standard is an estimate of the uncertainty of measurement. This work shows two approaches to estimate the uncertainty. The bottom-up approach involved identifying the components that were found to contribute to the uncertainty. Estimates were made for each of these components, which were combined to give a combined uncertainty of 13.5% at a Rn concentration of approximately 2500 Bq m(-3) at the 68% confidence level. By applying a coverage factor of k=2, the expanded uncertainty is +/-27% at the 95% confidence level. The top-down approach used information previously gathered from intercomparison exercises to estimate the uncertainty. This investigation found an expanded uncertainty of +/-22% at approximately 95% confidence level. This is good agreement for such independent estimates.


Subject(s)
Radiation Monitoring/methods , Radon/analysis , Ireland , Radiation Monitoring/standards , Radiation Monitoring/statistics & numerical data , Uncertainty
19.
J Environ Radioact ; 169-170: 1-8, 2017 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28027495

ABSTRACT

In 2002, a National Radon Survey (NRS) in Ireland established that the geographically weighted national average indoor radon concentration was 89 Bq m-3. Since then a number of developments have taken place which are likely to have impacted on the national average radon level. Key among these was the introduction of amending Building Regulations in 1998 requiring radon preventive measures in new buildings in High Radon Areas (HRAs). In 2014, the Irish Government adopted the National Radon Control Strategy (NRCS) for Ireland. A knowledge gap identified in the NRCS was to update the national average for Ireland given the developments since 2002. The updated national average would also be used as a baseline metric to assess the effectiveness of the NRCS over time. A new national survey protocol was required that would measure radon in a sample of homes representative of radon risk and geographical location. The design of the survey protocol took into account that it is not feasible to repeat the 11,319 measurements carried out for the 2002 NRS due to time and resource constraints. However, the existence of that comprehensive survey allowed for a new protocol to be developed, involving measurements carried out in unbiased randomly selected volunteer homes. This paper sets out the development and application of that survey protocol. The results of the 2015 survey showed that the current national average indoor radon concentration for homes in Ireland is 77 Bq m-3, a decrease from the 89 Bq m-3 reported in the 2002 NRS. Analysis of the results by build date demonstrate that the introduction of the amending Building Regulations in 1998 have led to a reduction in the average indoor radon level in Ireland.


Subject(s)
Air Pollutants, Radioactive/analysis , Air Pollution, Indoor/statistics & numerical data , Air Pollution, Radioactive/statistics & numerical data , Radiation Monitoring/methods , Radon/analysis , Environmental Exposure/prevention & control , Environmental Exposure/statistics & numerical data , Housing , Humans , Ireland , Radiation Monitoring/standards , Surveys and Questionnaires
20.
Equine Vet J ; 49(6): 759-766, 2017 Nov.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-28543943

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Use of owner-reported data could further epidemiological knowledge of equine laminitis. However, owner recognition of laminitis has not previously been assessed. OBJECTIVES: The primary objective was to establish whether cases of owner-suspected laminitis would be confirmed as laminitis by the attending veterinary surgeon. Secondary objectives were to compare owner- and veterinary-reported information from veterinary-confirmed cases of equine laminitis. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Twenty-five British veterinary practices were invited to submit laminitis reporting forms (LRFs) for active laminitis cases attended between January 2014 and October 2015; detailing 27 clinical signs, 5 underlying conditions and 7 risk factors associated with laminitis. Owners were invited to independently complete a modified LRF if reason for the veterinary visit was suspicion of laminitis. Differences between paired veterinary and owner LRFs, and between cases where owners did and did not recognise laminitis, were assessed using McNemar's and Fisher's Exact tests, respectively. RESULTS: Veterinary LRFs were received for 93 veterinary-diagnosed laminitis cases. All 51 owner-suspected cases were confirmed by veterinary diagnosis, with the remaining 42 (45.2%) not recognised as laminitis by owners. Undefined lameness, foot abscesses, colic and stiffness were common reasons for owner-requested veterinary visits in owner-unrecognised cases. 'Divergent growth rings' (prevalence difference: +27.3%, P = 0.01) and 'breed type' (prevalence difference: +21.2%, P = 0.04) were more commonly reported by veterinary surgeons in owner-recognised compared to owner-unrecognised cases. 'Difficulty turning', 'shifting weight' and risk factor 'body condition' were more frequently reported by veterinary surgeons whilst 'increased hoof temperature' was reported more frequently by owners. MAIN LIMITATIONS: The limited clinical data restricted statistical inferences regarding the secondary objectives. CONCLUSIONS: All owner-suspected laminitis cases were confirmed upon veterinary examination, showing validity for the inclusion of owner-reported cases in future epidemiological studies. However, failure of laminitis recognition by owners highlights further need for evidence-based education to ensure early disease detection.


Subject(s)
Foot Diseases/veterinary , Hoof and Claw/pathology , Horse Diseases/pathology , Inflammation/veterinary , Animals , Cross-Sectional Studies , Data Collection , Foot Diseases/epidemiology , Foot Diseases/pathology , Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice , Horse Diseases/epidemiology , Horses , Humans , Inflammation/epidemiology , Inflammation/pathology , Ownership , United Kingdom/epidemiology
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