Irish journal of medical science
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Injecting drug users are at high risk of acquiring blood-borne infections. Ireland has had a harm reduction policy of methadone maintenance and needle exchange since 1992. ⋯ A standardised written protocol for screening for blood-borne viruses and for immunisation against hepatitis B in methadone service attendees was clearly needed, and was subsequently introduced by the Eastern Region Health Authority.
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Scientific merit and clarity are critical in evaluation of quality in research. We hypothesised that avoidable errors of presentation adversely impact on abstract selection for scientific meetings. ⋯ Succinct presentation may reflect clarity of focus or increased writing experience. Reviewers favour concise abstracts. Concise presentation and timely submission are easily achieved and increase the likelihood of research acceptance for scientific meetings.
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Volatile anaesthetic agents influence neutrophil function, and potentially, the inflammatory response to surgery. ⋯ Human neutrophil apoptosis is inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro by isoflurane in clinical concentrations.
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Respiratory disease is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF). The significance of Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia) in the pathogenesis of lung disease in CF is debated, but its exact role remains unclear. ⋯ Acquisition of B. cepacia may be a cause of, rather than a marker for, a decrease in pulmonary function.
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Future general practice funding is much debated but public opinion has not previously been reported. ⋯ There is dissatisfaction with existing GP fees and support for a scheme entitling free primary care. The amount of money people are willing to pay exceeds their current annual expenditure on GP services.