The American journal of medicine
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Observational Study
Masking for COVID-19 is Associated with Decreased Emergency Department Utilization for Non-COVID Viral Illnesses and Respiratory Conditions in Maryland.
Masking, which is known to decrease the transmission of respiratory viruses, was not widely practiced in the United States until the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This provides a natural experiment to determine whether the percentage of community masking was associated with decreases in emergency department (ED) visits due to non-COVID viral illnesses (NCVIs) and related respiratory conditions. ⋯ Increasing the prevalence of masking is associated with a decrease in ED visits for viral illnesses and exacerbations of asthma and COPD. These findings may be valuable for future public health responses, particularly in future pandemics with respiratory transmission or in severe influenza seasons.
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Comparative Study
Comparison of fondaparinux and low molecular weight heparin in the treatment of portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis.
Portal vein thrombosis is the most common thrombotic complication in cirrhosis. About 60% of anticoagulated patients can achieve recanalization. Despite fondaparinux (FPX) theoretical advantages, data are lacking about safety and efficacy for treatment of portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis. ⋯ FPX appears to be more effective than LMWH in the treatment of portal vein thrombosis when used at reduced dose, also in complete thrombosis. FPX should be considered among possible treatments for portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis.