Irish journal of medical science
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The effect of preadmission metformin usage (PMU) on the mortality of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients with diabetes is conflicting. Most studies have focused on in-hospital mortality; however, mortality after discharge also increases in COVID-19 patients. ⋯ PMU is associated with reducing all-cause mortality. This effect starts from the in-hospital period and becomes more significant with the post-discharge period. The main limitations were the inability to evaluate the compliance with metformin and the effects of other medications due to retrospective nature.
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We have entered an era of renewed interest in novel approaches to surgical intervention and minimally invasive and transcatheter technique. With an aging population, isolated tricuspid valve regurgitation incidence is rising; however, referral for surgical intervention remains low. ⋯ Beyond technical challenges, decision making regarding pacemaker requirement requires further exploration. Redo tricuspid valve surgery carries a significant mortality risk and consideration should be given to earlier intervention in this context.
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The Irish healthcare system is currently recognised as being understaffed and under-resourced due to historic underfunding and the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis. This descriptive study investigated healthcare providers' perceptions of the safety culture in a large Irish teaching hospital. ⋯ This study highlights the complex relationship between working conditions and safety culture. Hospital staff were committed to providing the best possible care for their patients but struggled to provide safe care in a challenging work environment. A clear appetite for change was identified amongst HCPs regarding patient safety culture in Irish healthcare.
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An increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in children has been reported globally. Most studies examining the trajectory of BMI in children over time have tended to focus on children with typical development. Our group previously reported static prevalence rates in children with cerebral palsy. However, concern remains within our multi-disciplinary team that progression into higher BMI categories is apparent as children with cerebral palsy age. ⋯ The majority of children with cerebral palsy who presented with a normal BMI at first assessment maintained this BMI classification at follow-up. The results of this study highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy BMI status.
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Variants in PARKIN, PINK1, and DJ1 are associated with early-onset Parkinson' disease (EOPD, age-at-onset < 45). We previously reported a single PINK1 and a single DJ1 heterozygous variant carrier. ⋯ These findings suggest that PINK1 and DJ1 are rarely associated with Irish YOPD, while PARKIN variant frequency is similar to that reported worldwide.