International journal of clinical practice
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Int. J. Clin. Pract. · Apr 2021
Software-Based Quantitative Analysis of Lung Parenchyma in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis May Provide New Generation Data for Pulmonary Fibrosis.
To investigate lung volume and density in patients with SSc and changes in these parameters because of PF, using a software-aided image quantification method, and compare this with a matched healthy control group. ⋯ Lung density and volume in SSc patients changed significantly in those with PF and those without. Quantitative information extracted by soft-ware aided methods may contribute more to the detection, screening, and risk prediction in SSc-related PF.
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Int. J. Clin. Pract. · Apr 2021
The impacts of ambient temperature and ultraviolet radiation on the incidence of herpes zoster: an ecological study in Taiwan.
The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between ambient temperature, ultraviolet radiation, and the development of herpes zoster in Taiwan. An ecological study was conducted to analyse the database of the Taiwan National Health Insurance Programme. Participants aged ≥20 years with newly diagnosed herpes zoster between 2003 and 2012 were selected for analysis. ⋯ There is a significant association between ambient temperature, ultraviolet radiation, and the development of herpes zoster in Taiwan. The incidence rate of herpes zoster is high during the period of high ambient temperature and strong ultraviolet radiation. Low ambient temperature and weak ultraviolet radiation might be beneficial for the prevention of herpes zoster.
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In late July, Cyprus experienced the second epidemic wave of COVID-19. We present the steps taken by the government and evaluate their effect on epidemic trends. ⋯ The significant difference between recorded cases and those projected by Models 1 and 2 suggests that changes in epidemic trends may have been associated with policy changes after their respective dates. Discontinuation of major restrictions such as airport reopening, can destabilise the control of the epidemic, and may concomitantly necessitate a reevaluation of the current epidemic status. In the face of an evolving situation such as the COVID-19 pandemic, states are forced to balance the imposing of restrictions against their impact on the economy.
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Int. J. Clin. Pract. · Apr 2021
A Survey Analysis of Knowledge Levels of Urologists About Radiation Safety and Fluoroscopy Use.
To evaluate the awareness of the use of fluoroscopy in endourological procedures, as well as the theoretical and practical applications of preventive measures. ⋯ The lack of information regarding the radiation protection measures and harmful effects of radiation is common among urologists in Turkey. Therefore, systematic training programs on fluoroscopy use and radiation exposure should be provided during urology residency.
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Int. J. Clin. Pract. · Apr 2021
Comparison of Patients' Diagnoses in a Dermatology Outpatient Clinic During the COVID-19 Pandemic Period and Pre-pandemic Period.
In this study, we compared the current diagnoses of patients admitted to the dermatology outpatient clinic with the diagnoses during the non-pandemic period, and we examined the effect of COVID-19 on the patient profile. ⋯ Unlike other studies, the present study evaluated the patient diagnoses during the pandemic period and the period a year before and discussed the possible reasons for the changes in patient profiles.