The American journal of medicine
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We aimed to elucidate clinical implications of genetic variant interpretation in assessing disease severity and progression in thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) patients. ⋯ While aneurysms linked to variants of uncertain significance demonstrate average growth rates comparable to those in Gen-N, close follow-up and genetic counseling in the variants of uncertain significance group are recommended for assessment of pathogenicity on a case-by-case basis. Early familial gene testing in TAAD is important to develop individualized preventive and therapeutic criteria.
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While factors associated with long COVID (LC) continue to be illuminated, little is known about recovery. This study used national survey data to assess factors associated with recovery from LC. ⋯ Significant variations in LC recovery were noted across age, sex, race and ethnicity, education, and severity of COVID-19 symptoms. Further work is needed to elucidate the causes of these differences and identify strategies to increase recovery rates.
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Dysfunction of the coronary microvasculature has become increasingly recognized as an important mechanism of myocardial ischemia in patients without obstructive coronary artery disease. The causes and management of coronary microvascular dysfunction remain poorly understood and are still largely based on extrapolation of epicardial coronary artery disease data. Quantification of myocardial blood flow and flow reserve have improved diagnosis, though important questions remain. In this review, we explain current understanding of the spectrum of pathophysiology of coronary microvascular dysfunction, summarize current diagnostic techniques to assess for coronary microvascular dysfunction, and appraise the limited data on management options specifically for patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction.
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Modern medicine now has the capacity to improve therapy for many human diseases by introducing adult somatic stem cells that can repair or replace defective or damaged tissues. However, the area is still in an early phase of development, so all new applications must be carefully designed for maximal safety as well as effectiveness.