J Formos Med Assoc
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In a patient infected with HIV-1, the presence of latently infected cells from which the virus can be reactivated and rekindle HIV infection in the patient necessitates lifelong administration of antiretroviral treatment. The biology of HIV latency and viral silencing is now becoming clearer at a molecular and cellular level. ⋯ Attempts to therapeutically reactivate the virus in infected patients have yielded disappointing results. This article reviews the research and clinical findings and discusses current thinking on the subject of HIV latency and reactivation.
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Depression is a major health concern, often treated by non-psychiatrists. This study assessed self-reported knowledge, attitudes and treatment practices of non-psychiatric physicians in the recognition and management of depression. ⋯ Our study suggests that non-psychiatrists may also play a role in the care of depression, but identifying and managing depression can be a challenge to them. Attitudinal barriers, confidence, and knowledge of treatment may compromise the physicians ability to manage depression. Future interventions and educational efforts need to address each of these issues.
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Comparative Study
Mass screening of suspected febrile patients with remote-sensing infrared thermography: alarm temperature and optimal distance.
Detection of fever has become an essential step in identifying patients who may have severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) or avian influenza. This study evaluated infrared thermography (IRT) and compared the influence of different imagers, ambient temperature discrepancy, and the distance between the subject and imager. ⋯ The temperature readings obtained by IRT may be used as a proxy for core temperature. An effective IRT system with a strict operating protocol can be rapidly implemented at the entrance of a hospital during SARS or avian influenza epidemics.
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Translational medicine has been defined as bench-to-bedside research, where a basic laboratory discovery becomes applicable to the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of a specific disease, and is brought forth by either a physician/scientist who works at the interface between the research laboratory and patient care, or by a team of basic and clinical science investigators. Statistics plays an important role in translational medicine to ensure that the translational process is accurate and reliable, with statistical assurance. ⋯ Under a well established and validated translational model, statistical tests for one-way and two-way translation are discussed. Some discussion on lost in translation is also given.