90 results on '"Rasi M"'
Search Results
2. Biochemical Analysis of Siddha Herbo Mineral Drug Irunelli Karpam
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Rasi, M., Muhilan, A., Chanthamarai, G., Abdul Kader Jaylani, M. P., Rasi, M., Muhilan, A., Chanthamarai, G., and Abdul Kader Jaylani, M. P.
- Abstract
Siddha system of medicine is a renowned holistic system of traditional medicine emphasizing curative and preventive measures. The medicines used in siddha are of plant origin, metals, minerals and animal products. It is one of the major Indian systems of Medicine. The people were well in the physical and mental health with the Siddha medicines. Till date, lesser studies have been conducted on such preparation one such Siddha medicines namely Irunelli Karpam has been selected for present study. It is a traditional herbo mineral drug was prepared as per the procedure mentioned in Siddha literature. Thus, the medicine indicates mainly used for skin diseases especially Sori, Sirangu. The aim of the study was to evaluate the biochemical analysis of the trial drug Irunelli Karpam and it indicates the presence of the ferrous iron, tannic acid, aminoacid, reducing sugar. Thus, I conclude, the presences of these chemicals are treatment of various types of skin diseases especially Sori, Sirangu.  
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- 2022
3. Standardization of Siddha Herbomineral Formulation Irunelli Karpam
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Rasi, M., Sulfin Nihar, S., Balamani, S., Abdul Kader jaylani, M. P., Rasi, M., Sulfin Nihar, S., Balamani, S., and Abdul Kader jaylani, M. P.
- Abstract
Siddha system of medicine is a renowned holistic system of traditional medicine emphasizing curative and preventive measures. The medicines used in siddha are of plant origin, metals, minerals and animal products. It is one of the major Indian systems of Medicine. The people were well in the physical and mental health with the Siddha medicines. Till date, lesser studies have seen conducted on standardization of such preparations. Irunelli Karpam, a traditional siddha herbo - mineral drug was prepared as per the procedure mentioned in siddha literatures. In the present study an attempt has been made to standardize Irunelli Karpam. According to PLIM guidelines, standardization of drugs conforms identity, determination of quality, purity and detection of adulteration by various parameters. The review article will help to provide details of information about physiochemical Screening, biological and pesticide screening (Aflatoxins, Sterility test by pour plate method test for specific pathogen).
- Published
- 2022
4. Participation, retention and uptake in a multicentre pre-exposure prophylaxis cohort using online, smartphone-compatible data collection
- Author
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Hovaguimian, Frédérique; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4181-2948, Martin, Eileen Christiane, Reinacher, M, Rasi, M, Schmidt, A J, Bernasconi, E, Boffi El Amari, E, Braun, D L, Calmy, A, Darling, K; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1449-3873, Christinet, V, Depmeier, C, Hauser, C, Läuchli, S, Notter, J, Stoeckle, M, Surial, B, Vernazza, P, Bruggmann, P, Tarr, P, Haerry, D, Bize, R, Low, N, Lehner, A, Böni, J, Kouyos, R D, Fehr, J S, Hampel, B, Hovaguimian, Frédérique; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4181-2948, Martin, Eileen Christiane, Reinacher, M, Rasi, M, Schmidt, A J, Bernasconi, E, Boffi El Amari, E, Braun, D L, Calmy, A, Darling, K; https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1449-3873, Christinet, V, Depmeier, C, Hauser, C, Läuchli, S, Notter, J, Stoeckle, M, Surial, B, Vernazza, P, Bruggmann, P, Tarr, P, Haerry, D, Bize, R, Low, N, Lehner, A, Böni, J, Kouyos, R D, Fehr, J S, and Hampel, B
- Abstract
OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of a national pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme using smartphone-compatible data collection. METHODS: This was a multicentre cohort study (NCT03893188) enrolling individuals interested in PrEP in Switzerland. All centres participate in the SwissPrEPared programme, which uses smartphone-compatible data collection. Feasibility was assessed after centres had enrolled at least one participant. Participants were HIV-negative individuals presenting for PrEP counselling. Outcomes were participation (number enrolled/number eligible), enrolment rates (number enrolled per month), retention at first follow-up (number with first follow-up/number enrolled), and uptake (proportion attending first visit as scheduled). Participant characteristics were compared between those retained after baseline assessment and those who dropped out. RESULTS: Between April 2019 and January 2020, 987 individuals were assessed for eligibility, of whom 969 were enrolled (participation: 98.2%). The median enrolment rate was 86 per month [interquartile range (IQR) 52-137]. Retention at first follow-up and uptake were both 80.7% (782/969 and 532/659, respectively). At enrolment, the median age was 40 (IQR 33-47) years, 95% were men who have sex with men, 47% had a university degree, and 75.5% were already taking PrEP. Most reported multiple casual partners (89.2%), previous sexually transmitted infections (74%) and sexualized drug use (73.1%). At baseline, 25.5% tested positive for either syphilis, gonorrhoea or chlamydia. Participants who dropped out were at lower risk of HIV infection than those retained after baseline assessment. CONCLUSIONS: In a national PrEP programme using smartphone-compatible data collection, participation, retention and uptake were high. Participants retained after baseline assessment were at considerable risk of HIV infection. Younger, less educated individuals were underrepresented in the SwissPrEPared co
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- 2022
5. Non-linear analysis of Haldane kinetic model in phenol degradation in batch operations
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Sathya, R., Rasi, M., and Rajendran, L.
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- 2015
- Full Text
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6. Participation, retention and uptake in a multicentre pre‐exposure prophylaxis cohort using online, smartphone‐compatible data collection
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Hovaguimian, F, primary, Martin, E, additional, Reinacher, M, additional, Rasi, M, additional, Schmidt, AJ, additional, Bernasconi, E, additional, Boffi El Amari, E, additional, Braun, DL, additional, Calmy, A, additional, Darling, K, additional, Christinet, V, additional, Depmeier, C, additional, Hauser, C, additional, Läuchli, S, additional, Notter, J, additional, Stoeckle, M, additional, Surial, B, additional, Vernazza, P, additional, Bruggmann, P, additional, Tarr, P, additional, Haerry, D, additional, Bize, R, additional, Low, N, additional, Lehner, A, additional, Böni, J, additional, Kouyos, RD, additional, Fehr, JS, additional, and Hampel, B, additional
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- 2021
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7. Thoughts on 'The effect of recorded music on pain endurance (CRESCENDo) – A randomised controlled trial'
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Rauhaan Tahir, Sadeed Ahmed Choudhury, Rasi Mizori, and Malik Takreem Ahmad
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Other systems of medicine ,RZ201-999 - Published
- 2024
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8. Interactions of charged microrods in chiral nematic liquid crystals
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Surajit Dhara, Ravi Kumar Pujala, Muhammed Rasi M, and Sathyanarayana Paladugu
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Materials science ,Mechanical equilibrium ,Homeotropic alignment ,Thermal fluctuations ,FOS: Physical sciences ,Condensed Matter - Soft Condensed Matter ,law.invention ,Condensed Matter::Soft Condensed Matter ,Chemical physics ,Liquid crystal ,law ,Nano ,Bound state ,Coulomb ,Soft Condensed Matter (cond-mat.soft) ,Spectroscopy - Abstract
We study the pair interaction of charged silica microrods in chiral nematic liquid crystals and show that the microrods with homeotropic surface anchoring form a bound state due to the competing effect of electrostatic (Coulomb) and elastic interactions. The robustness of the bound state is demonstrated by applying external electrical and mechanical forces that perturbs their equilibrium position as well as orientation. In the bound state we have measured the correlated thermal fluctuations of the position, using two-particle cross-correlation spectroscopy that uncovers their hydrodynamic interaction. These findings reveal unexplored aspects of liquid-crystal dispersions which are important for understanding the assembly and dynamics of nano and microparticles in chiral nematic liquid crystals., Comment: 9 pages, 10 figures
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- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. On the use of a laboratory-scale Pelton wheel water turbine in renewable energy education
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Agar, D. and Rasi, M.
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- 2008
- Full Text
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10. Participation, retention and uptake in a multicentre pre‐exposure prophylaxis cohort using online, smartphone‐compatible data collection.
- Author
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Hovaguimian, F, Martin, E, Reinacher, M, Rasi, M, Schmidt, AJ, Bernasconi, E, Boffi El Amari, E, Braun, DL, Calmy, A, Darling, K, Christinet, V, Depmeier, C, Hauser, C, Läuchli, S, Notter, J, Stoeckle, M, Surial, B, Vernazza, P, Bruggmann, P, and Tarr, P
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HIV prevention ,RESEARCH ,PATIENT participation ,SMARTPHONES ,MEDICAL cooperation ,AUTOMATIC data collection systems ,PREVENTIVE medicine ,LONGITUDINAL method - Abstract
Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility of a national pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) programme using smartphone‐compatible data collection. Methods: This was a multicentre cohort study (NCT03893188) enrolling individuals interested in PrEP in Switzerland. All centres participate in the SwissPrEPared programme, which uses smartphone‐compatible data collection. Feasibility was assessed after centres had enrolled at least one participant. Participants were HIV‐negative individuals presenting for PrEP counselling. Outcomes were participation (number enrolled/number eligible), enrolment rates (number enrolled per month), retention at first follow‐up (number with first follow‐up/number enrolled), and uptake (proportion attending first visit as scheduled). Participant characteristics were compared between those retained after baseline assessment and those who dropped out. Results: Between April 2019 and January 2020, 987 individuals were assessed for eligibility, of whom 969 were enrolled (participation: 98.2%). The median enrolment rate was 86 per month [interquartile range (IQR) 52–137]. Retention at first follow‐up and uptake were both 80.7% (782/969 and 532/659, respectively). At enrolment, the median age was 40 (IQR 33–47) years, 95% were men who have sex with men, 47% had a university degree, and 75.5% were already taking PrEP. Most reported multiple casual partners (89.2%), previous sexually transmitted infections (74%) and sexualized drug use (73.1%). At baseline, 25.5% tested positive for either syphilis, gonorrhoea or chlamydia. Participants who dropped out were at lower risk of HIV infection than those retained after baseline assessment. Conclusions: In a national PrEP programme using smartphone‐compatible data collection, participation, retention and uptake were high. Participants retained after baseline assessment were at considerable risk of HIV infection. Younger, less educated individuals were underrepresented in the SwissPrEPared cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
11. Risk of HIV transmission through condomless sex in serodifferent gay couples with the HIV-positive partner taking suppressive antiretroviral therapy (PARTNER): final results of a multicentre, prospective, observational study
- Author
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Rodger, A. J., Cambiano, V., Phillips, A. N., Bruun, T., Raben, D., Lundgren, J., Vernazza, P., Collins, S., Degen, O., Corbelli, G. M., Estrada, V., Geretti, A. M., Beloukas, A., Coll, P., Antinori, A., Nwokolo, N., Rieger, A., Prins, J. M., Blaxhult, A., Weber, R., Van Eeden, A., Brockmeyer, N. H., Clarke, A., del Romero Guerrero, J., Raffi, F., Bogner, J. R., Wandeler, G., Gerstoft, J., Gutierrez, F., Brinkman, K., Kitchen, M., Ostergaard, L., Leon, A., Ristola, M., Jessen, H., Stellbrink, H. -J., Cobarsi, P., Nieto, A., Meulbroek, M., Carrillo, A., Saz, J., Guerrero, J. D. R., Garcia, M. V., Masia, M., Robledano, C., Leal, L., Redondo, E. G., Estrada, V. P., Marquez, R., Sandoval, R., Viciana, P., Espinosa, N., Lopez-Cortes, L., Podzamczer, D., Tiraboschi, J., Morenilla, S., Antela, A., Losada, E., Sewell, J., Kirk, S., Knott, A., Fernandez, T., Gompels, M., Jennings, L., Ward, L., Fox, J., Lwanga, J., Lee, M., Gilson, R., Leen, C., Morris, S., Clutterbuck, D., Brady, M., Asboe, D., Fedele, S., Fidler, S., Brockmeyer, N., Potthoff, A., Skaletz-Rorowski, A., Bogner, J., Seybold, U., Roider, J., Jessen, A., Ruzicic, S., Kummerle, T., Lehmann, C., Bartel, S., Hufner, A., Rockstroh, J., Mohrmann, K., Boesecke, C., Krznaric, I., Ingiliz, P., Grube, C., Braun, D., Gunthard, H., Furrer, H., Rauch, A., Schmid, P., Rasi, M., Borso, D., Stratmann, M., Caviezel, O., Stoeckle, M., Battegay, M., Tarr, P., Christinet, V., Jouinot, F., Isambert, C., Bernasconi, E., Bernasconi, B., Jensen, L. P., Bayer, A. A., Yehdego, Y., Bach, A., Handberg, P., Kronborg, G., Pedersen, S. S., Bulow, N., Ramskover, B., Debnam, O., Sutinen, J., Ask, R., Hildingsson-Lundh, B., Westling, K., Frisen, E. -M., Cortney, G., O'Dea, S., De Wit, S., Necsoi, C., Vandekerckhove, L., Goffard, J. -C., Henrard, S., Prins, J., Nobel, H. -H., Weijsenfeld, A., Elsenburg, L., Vos, D., Hoijenga, I., Gisolf, E., Van Bentum, P., Verhagen, D., Billaud, E., Ohayon, M., Gosset, D., Fior, A., Pialoux, G., Thibaut, P., Chas, J., Leclercq, V., Pechenot, V., Coquelin, V., Pradier, C., Breaud, S., Touzeau-Romer, V., Kitchen - Maria Geit, M., Sarcletti, M., Gisinger, M., Oellinger, A., Menichetti, S., Bini, T., Mussini, C., Meschiari, M., Di Biagio, A., Taramasso, L., Celesia, B. M., Gussio, M., Janeiro, N., AII - Infectious diseases, Infectious diseases, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust- BRC Funding, Department of Medicine, University Management, Clinicum, and HUS Inflammation Center
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Male ,SERODISCORDANT COUPLES ,HIV Infections ,030204 cardiovascular system & hematology ,Condoms ,Sexual and Gender Minorities ,0302 clinical medicine ,Unsafe Sex ,Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active ,Epidemiology ,INFECTION ,HIV Seropositivity ,Medicine and Health Sciences ,030212 general & internal medicine ,Homosexuality ,Prospective Studies ,Prospective cohort study ,610 Medicine & health ,11 Medical and Health Sciences ,media_common ,Transmission (medicine) ,virus diseases ,General Medicine ,Middle Aged ,Viral Load ,Sexual Partners ,PARTNER Study Group ,Viral load ,Life Sciences & Biomedicine ,Adult ,medicine.medical_specialty ,Anti-HIV Agents ,media_common.quotation_subject ,education ,Antiretroviral Therapy ,Article ,03 medical and health sciences ,Medicine, General & Internal ,General & Internal Medicine ,medicine ,Humans ,Highly Active ,Seroconversion ,SEMEN ,Homosexuality, Male ,Science & Technology ,business.industry ,HIV Seropositivity/transmission ,HIV ,PREVENTION ,3121 General medicine, internal medicine and other clinical medicine ,Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use ,BLOOD-PLASMA ,RNA ,Observational study ,HETEROSEXUAL TRANSMISSION ,business ,Demography - Abstract
BACKGROUND: The level of evidence for HIV transmission risk through condomless sex in serodifferent gay couples with the HIV-positive partner taking virally suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART) is limited compared with the evidence available for transmission risk in heterosexual couples. The aim of the second phase of the PARTNER study (PARTNER2) was to provide precise estimates of transmission risk in gay serodifferent partnerships.METHODS: The PARTNER study was a prospective observational study done at 75 sites in 14 European countries. The first phase of the study (PARTNER1; Sept 15, 2010, to May 31, 2014) recruited and followed up both heterosexual and gay serodifferent couples (HIV-positive partner taking suppressive ART) who reported condomless sex, whereas the PARTNER2 extension (to April 30, 2018) recruited and followed up gay couples only. At study visits, data collection included sexual behaviour questionnaires, HIV testing (HIV-negative partner), and HIV-1 viral load testing (HIV-positive partner). If a seroconversion occurred in the HIV-negative partner, anonymised phylogenetic analysis was done to compare HIV-1 pol and env sequences in both partners to identify linked transmissions. Couple-years of follow-up were eligible for inclusion if condomless sex was reported, use of pre-exposure prophylaxis or post-exposure prophylaxis was not reported by the HIV-negative partner, and the HIV-positive partner was virally suppressed (plasma HIV-1 RNA FINDINGS: Between Sept 15, 2010, and July 31, 2017, 972 gay couples were enrolled, of which 782 provided 1593 eligible couple-years of follow-up with a median follow-up of 2·0 years (IQR 1·1-3·5). At baseline, median age for HIV-positive partners was 40 years (IQR 33-46) and couples reported condomless sex for a median of 1·0 years (IQR 0·4-2·9). During eligible couple-years of follow-up, couples reported condomless anal sex a total of 76 088 times. 288 (37%) of 777 HIV-negative men reported condomless sex with other partners. 15 new HIV infections occurred during eligible couple-years of follow-up, but none were phylogenetically linked within-couple transmissions, resulting in an HIV transmission rate of zero (upper 95% CI 0·23 per 100 couple-years of follow-up).INTERPRETATION: Our results provide a similar level of evidence on viral suppression and HIV transmission risk for gay men to that previously generated for heterosexual couples and suggest that the risk of HIV transmission in gay couples through condomless sex when HIV viral load is suppressed is effectively zero. Our findings support the message of the U=U (undetectable equals untransmittable) campaign, and the benefits of early testing and treatment for HIV.FUNDING: National Institute for Health Research.
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- 2019
12. Risk of HIV transmission through condomless sex in serodifferent gay couples with the HIV-positive partner taking suppressive antiretroviral therapy (PARTNER): final results of a multicentre, prospective, observational study
- Author
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Cambiano, V, Bruun, T, Collins, S, Corbelli, GM, Geretti, AM, Beloukas, A, Raben, D, Prins, JM, Van Eeden, A, Guerrero, JD, Bogner, JR, Phillips, AN, Lundgren, J, Viciana, P, Espinosa, N, Lopez-Cortes, L, Gutierrez, F, Masia, M, Robledano, C, Coll, P, Cobarsi, P, Nieto, A, Podzamczer, D, Tiraboschi, J, Morenilla, S, Meulbroek, M, Carrillo, A, Saz, J, Estrada, V, Marquez, R, Sandoval, R, Antela, A, Losada, E, Leon, A, Leal, L, Redondo, EG, Garcia, MV, Asboe, D, Fedele, S, Nwokolo, N, Gilson, R, Gompels, M, Jennings, L, Ward, L, Brady, M, Clarke, A, Kirk, S, Knott, A, Fox, J, Lwanga, J, Lee, M, Leen, C, Morris, S, Clutterbuck, D, Fidler, S, Rodger, AJ, Fernandez, T, Sewell, J, Degen, O, Bartel, S, Hufner, A, Kummerle, T, Lehmann, C, Bogner, J, Seybold, U, Roider, J, Brockmeyer, NH, Potthoff, A, Skaletz-Rorowski, A, Stellbrink, HJ, Jessen, H, Jessen, A, Ruzicic, S, Rockstroh, J, Mohrmann, K, Boesecke, C, Krznaric, I, Ingiliz, P, Prins, J, Nobel, HE, Weijsenfeld, A, Brinkman, K, Vos, D, Hoijenga, I, Verhagen, D, van Eeden, A, Elsenburg, L, Gisolf, E, van Bentum, P, Weber, R, Grube, C, Braun, D, Wandeler, G, Furrer, H, Rauch, A, Stoeckle, M, Tarr, P, Battegay, M, Vernazza, P, Schmid, P, Rasi, M, Bernasconi, E, Bernasconi, B, Christinet, V, Jouinot, F, Isambert, C, Borso, D, Stratmann, M, Caviezel, O, Bini, T, Antinori, A, Menichetti, S, Celesia, BM, Gussio, M, Mussini, C, Meschiari, M, Di Biagio, A, Taramasso, L, Rieger, A, Touzeau-Romer, V, Kitchen, M, Sarcletti, M, Gisinger, M, Oelinger, A, Geit, M, Gerstoft, J, Jensen, LP, Bayer, AA, Handberg, P, Kronborg, G, Ostergaard, L, Pedersen, SS, Bulow, N, Ramskover, B, Pradier, C, Breaud, S, Raffi, F, Billaud, E, Ohayon, M, Gosset, D, Fior, A, Pialoux, G, Thibaut, P, Chas, J, Leclercq, V, Pechenot, V, Coquelin, V, Westling, K, Frisen, EM, Blaxhult, A, Ask, R, Hildingsson-Lundh, B, Ristola, M, Debnam, O, Sutinen, J, De Wit, S, Necsoi, C, Vandekerckhove, L, Goffard, JC, Henrard, S, Janeiro, N, Cortney, G, and O'Dea, S
- Abstract
Background The level of evidence for HIV transmission risk through condomless sex in serodifferent gay couples with the HIV-positive partner taking virally suppressive antiretroviral therapy (ART) is limited compared with the evidence available for transmission risk in heterosexual couples. The aim of the second phase of the PARTNER study (PARTNER2) was to provide precise estimates of transmission risk in gay serodifferent partnerships. Methods The PARTNER study was a prospective observational study done at 75 sites in 14 European countries. The first phase of the study (PARTNER1; Sept 15, 2010, to May 31, 2014) recruited and followed up both heterosexual and gay serodifferent couples (HIV-positive partner taking suppressive ART) who reported condomless sex, whereas the PARTNER2 extension (to April 30, 2018) recruited and followed up gay couples only. At study visits, data collection included sexual behaviour questionnaires, HIV testing (HIV-negative partner), and HIV-1 viral load testing (HIV-positive partner). If a seroconversion occurred in the HIV-negative partner, anonymised phylogenetic analysis was done to compare HIV-1 pol and env sequences in both partners to identify linked transmissions. Couple-years of follow-up were eligible for inclusion if condomless sex was reported, use of pre-exposure prophylaxis or post-exposure prophylaxis was not reported by the HIV-negative partner, and the HIV-positive partner was virally suppressed (plasma HIV-1 RNA < 200 copies per mL) at the most recent visit (within the past year). Incidence rate of HIV transmission was calculated as the number of phylogenetically linked HIV infections that occurred during eligible couple-years of follow-up divided by eligible couple-years of follow-up. Two-sided 95% CIs for the incidence rate of transmission were calculated using exact Poisson methods. Findings Between Sept 15, 2010, and July 31, 2017, 972 gay couples were enrolled, of which 782 provided 1593 eligible couple-years of follow-up with a median follow-up of 2.0 years (IQR 1.1-3.5). At baseline, median age for HIV-positive partners was 40 years (IQR 33-46) and couples reported condomless sex for a median of 1.0 years (IQR 0.4-2.9). During eligible couple-years of follow-up, couples reported condomless anal sex a total of 76 088 times. 288 (37%) of 777 HIV-negative men reported condomless sex with other partners. 15 new HIV infections occurred during eligible couple-years of follow-up, but none were phylogenetically linked within-couple transmissions, resulting in an HIV transmission rate of zero (upper 95% CI 0.23 per 100 couple-years of follow-up). Interpretation Our results provide a similar level of evidence on viral suppression and HIV transmission risk for gay men to that previously generated for heterosexual couples and suggest that the risk of HIV transmission in gay couples through condomless sex when HIV viral load is suppressed is effectively zero. Our findings support the message of the U=U (undetectable equals untransmittable) campaign, and the benefits of early testing and treatment for HIV. Copyright (C) 2019 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.
- Published
- 2019
13. Colloidal analogues of polymer chains, ribbons and 2D crystals employing orientations and interactions of nano-rods dispersed in a nematic liquid crystal
- Author
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Ravi Kumar Pujala, Surajit Dhara, and Muhammed Rasi M
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0301 basic medicine ,Materials science ,genetic structures ,Homeotropic alignment ,lcsh:Medicine ,Physics::Optics ,Article ,03 medical and health sciences ,Colloid ,0302 clinical medicine ,Liquid crystal ,Perpendicular ,Thin film ,lcsh:Science ,Anisotropy ,chemistry.chemical_classification ,Multidisciplinary ,lcsh:R ,technology, industry, and agriculture ,Polymer ,Condensed Matter::Soft Condensed Matter ,030104 developmental biology ,chemistry ,Optical tweezers ,Chemical physics ,lcsh:Q ,sense organs ,030217 neurology & neurosurgery - Abstract
Robust control over the position, orientation and self-assembly of nonspherical colloids facilitate the creation of new materials with complex architecture that are important from technological and fundamental perspectives. We study orientation, elastic interaction and co-assembly of surface functionalized silica nano-rods in thin films of nematic liquid crystal. With homeotropic boundary condition, the nano-rods are predominantly oriented perpendicular to the nematic director which is different than the mostly parallel orientation of the micro-rods. The percentage of perpendicular nano-rods are significantly larger than the parallel nano-rods. The perpendicular nano-rods create very weak elastic deformation and exhibit unusual, out-of-plane, attractive interaction. On the other hand, the nano-rods oriented parallel to the director create strong elastic deformation and shows anisotropic, in-plane, dipolar interaction. In both orientations, the induced defects reside in the nano-rods. With the help of a dynamic laser tweezers and using nano-rods as building blocks we demonstrate colloidal analogues of linear polymer chains, ribbons and two-dimensional binary crystals.
- Published
- 2018
14. Thoughts on ‘Efficacy of RestoreX after prostatectomy: open‐label phase of an RCT’
- Author
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Mustafa Ganijee, Rasi Mizori, Awab Ahmad, Mirza Hashim Ahmad, and Malik Takreem Ahmad
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Diseases of the genitourinary system. Urology ,RC870-923 - Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
15. Neglect of attention to reproductive health in women with HIV infection: contraceptive use and unintended pregnancies in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
- Author
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Aebi-Popp, K, Mercanti, V, Voide, C, Nemeth, J, Cusini, A, Jakopp, B, Nicca, D, Rasi, M, Bruno, A, Calmy, A, Martinez de Tejada, B, Swiss HIV Cohort Study, University of Zurich, and Aebi-Popp, K
- Subjects
10234 Clinic for Infectious Diseases ,10036 Medical Clinic ,2736 Pharmacology (medical) ,610 Medicine & health ,2725 Infectious Diseases ,2719 Health Policy - Published
- 2018
16. N−SmA−SmCphase transitions probed by a pair of elastically bound colloids
- Author
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Arun Roy, K. P. Zuhail, Muhammed Rasi M, and Surajit Dhara
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Physics ,Phase transition ,Homeotropic alignment ,02 engineering and technology ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,01 natural sciences ,Topological defect ,Condensed Matter::Soft Condensed Matter ,Colloid ,Crystallography ,Planar ,Liquid crystal ,0103 physical sciences ,Exponent ,Elasticity (economics) ,010306 general physics ,0210 nano-technology - Abstract
The competing effect of surface anchoring of dispersed microparticles and elasticity of nematic and cholesteric liquid crystals has been shown to stabilize a variety of topological defects. Here we study a pair of colloidal microparticles with homeotropic and planar surface anchoring across $N\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{Sm}A\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{Sm}C$ phase transitions. We show that below the $\mathrm{Sm}A\text{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{Sm}C$ phase transition the temperature dependence of interparticle separation $(D)$ of colloids with homeotropic anchoring shows a power-law behavior; $D\ensuremath{\sim}{(1\ensuremath{-}T/{T}_{AC})}^{\ensuremath{\alpha}}$, with an exponent $\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{\approx}0.5$. For colloids with planar surface anchoring the angle between the joining line of the centers of the two colloids and the far field director shows characteristic variation elucidating the phase transitions.
- Published
- 2018
17. N-SmA-SmC phase transitions probed by a pair of elastically bound colloids
- Author
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Muhammed Rasi, M, K P, Zuhail, Arun, Roy, and Surajit, Dhara
- Abstract
The competing effect of surface anchoring of dispersed microparticles and elasticity of nematic and cholesteric liquid crystals has been shown to stabilize a variety of topological defects. Here we study a pair of colloidal microparticles with homeotropic and planar surface anchoring across N-SmA-SmC phase transitions. We show that below the SmA-SmC phase transition the temperature dependence of interparticle separation (D) of colloids with homeotropic anchoring shows a power-law behavior; D∼(1-T/T_{AC})^{α}, with an exponent α≈0.5. For colloids with planar surface anchoring the angle between the joining line of the centers of the two colloids and the far field director shows characteristic variation elucidating the phase transitions.
- Published
- 2018
18. Hydrogen Production by a Photosynthetic Bacterium: Some Analytical Solutions
- Author
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Rasi M, Rajendran L, and Lakshmanan Rajendran
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Rhodobacter ,biology ,Hydrogen ,Chemistry ,General Chemical Engineering ,Biomass ,Substrate (chemistry) ,Photobioreactor ,Thermodynamics ,chemistry.chemical_element ,General Chemistry ,biology.organism_classification ,Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering ,Degradation (geology) ,Sensitivity (control systems) ,Hydrogen production - Abstract
The mathematical model for hydrogen production by the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus in a batch photobioreactor is discussed. An analytical method – the homotopy perturbation method – is presented to solve the nonlinear differential equations that describe the biomass formation, substrate utilization, and hydrogen production with respect to time. Approximate analytical expressions for the concentrations of biomass, substrate and hydrogen are derived for various values of the relevant parameters. The analytical results are compared with experimental data. In addition, the sensitivity of the kinetic parameters is also analyzed. The time required to achieve the maximum growth of biomass and complete degradation of the substrate is reported.
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- 2015
19. Analytical expression of transient current-potential for redox enzymatic homogenous system
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SUBBIAH ALWARAPPAN, Rasi M, Rajendran L, and Lakshmanan Rajendran
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Work (thermodynamics) ,Chemistry ,Metals and Alloys ,Analytical chemistry ,Limiting case (mathematics) ,Condensed Matter Physics ,Kinetic energy ,Redox ,Expression (mathematics) ,Surfaces, Coatings and Films ,Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials ,Materials Chemistry ,Sensitivity (control systems) ,Electrical and Electronic Engineering ,Current (fluid) ,Biological system ,Instrumentation ,Voltammetry - Abstract
Mathematical modeling pertaining to the catalytic response of a redox enzymatic system is discussed. The model proposed herein describes the relationship between the electrochemical responses and the kinetic characteristics of the enzymatic reaction. The analytical expressions corresponding to the concentration of co-substrate for steady and non-steady state conditions have been obtained using a new approach to homotopy perturbation method (HPM). Analytical expressions of the plateau current are also presented for steady and non-steady state conditions. Upon comparison, we found that the analytical results of this work are in excellent agreement with the existing limiting case results. Further, the sensitivity of the parameter in transient current potential was also analyzed due to its importance in predicting the relationship between the input value of the parameter and the model results.
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- 2015
20. Enzyme-Catalyzed Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Biofuel Cells: Analytical Expressions for Chronoamperometric Current Densities
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Sangaranarayanan MV, Rasi M, Rajendran L, and Lakshmanan Rajendran
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Enzyme catalyzed ,Inorganic chemistry ,Catalysis ,Nonlinear reaction-diffusion equations ,Diffusion ,Chronoamperometric response ,Analytical expressions ,Chronoamperometry ,Current density ,Materials Chemistry ,Electrochemistry ,Oxygen reduction reaction ,Redox reactions ,Mediated electron transfer ,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment ,Chemistry ,Electrolytic reduction ,Substrate concentrations ,Nonlinear equations ,Condensed Matter Physics ,Catalyzed oxygen reduction ,Enzymes ,Surfaces, Coatings and Films ,Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials ,Biological fuel cells ,Biofuels ,Enzyme characteristics ,Linear equations ,Current (fluid) ,Transient current ,Biofuel Cells - Abstract
The transient current-potential response of the enzyme-catalyzed oxygen reduction reaction in biofuel cells is analyzed. The onedimensional nonlinear reaction-diffusion equation is solved analytically using the homotopy method for deriving the substrate concentrations and current densities pertaining to chronoamperometric response. The time required to obtain the steady state has been obtained and the influence of film thickness, diffusion coefficients, and enzyme characteristics has been deciphered. The equations are shown to be valid for experimental data on mediated electron transfer reactions of redox polymers containing osmium complexes. The substrate concentrations and current densities for supported, gas-diffusion and flow through electrodes are also reported. � 2015 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.
- Published
- 2015
21. Application of new approach to homotopy perturbation method in solving a system of nonlinear self-igniting reaction diffusion equations.
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Narmatha, S., Ananthaswamy, V., and Rasi, M.
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HEAT equation ,NONLINEAR systems ,MATHEMATICAL models ,BIOCHEMICAL substrates - Abstract
Mathematical model pertaining to the self-igniting reaction diffusion equations is discussed. Approximate analytical expressions corresponding to the concentration of gas reactant and temperature are obtained using a new approach to Homotopy perturbation method (HPM). Furthermore, in this work, comparison between the analytical and numerical results is also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
22. Neglect of attention to reproductive health in women with HIV infection: contraceptive use and unintended pregnancies in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study.
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Aebi‐Popp, K., Mercanti, V., Voide, C., Nemeth, J., Cusini, A., Jakopp, B., Nicca, D., Rasi, M., Bruno, A., Calmy, A., Martinez de Tejada, B., and the Swiss HIV Cohort Study
- Subjects
ORAL contraceptives ,ANTIRETROVIRAL agents ,CONTRACEPTIVE drugs ,ABORTION ,CONDOMS ,CONTRACEPTION ,CONTRACEPTIVES ,HIV infections ,HIV-positive persons ,INTRAUTERINE contraceptives ,LONGITUDINAL method ,QUESTIONNAIRES ,SELF-evaluation ,REPRODUCTIVE health ,UNPLANNED pregnancy ,FAMILY planning ,THERAPEUTICS - Abstract
Objectives: Women with HIV infection are mainly of reproductive age and need safe, effective and affordable contraception to avoid unintended pregnancies. The aim of this study was to evaluate contraceptive use and unintended pregnancies in this population in Switzerland. Methods: A self‐report anonymous questionnaire on contraceptive methods, adherence to them, and unintended pregnancies was completed by women included in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS) between November 2013 and June 2014. Sociodemographic characteristics and information related to combined antiretroviral therapy and HIV disease status were obtained from the SHCS database. Results: Of 462 women included, 164 (35.5%) reported not using any contraception. Among these, 65 (39.6%) reported being sexually active, although 29 (44.6%) were not planning a pregnancy. Of 298 women using contraception, the following methods were reported: condoms, 219 (73.5%); oral hormonal contraception, 32 (10.7%); and intrauterine devices, 28 (9.4%). Among all women on contraception, 32 (10.7%) reported using more than one contraceptive method and 48 (16%) had an unintended pregnancy while on contraception (18, condoms; 16, oral contraception; four, other methods). Of these, 68.1% terminated the pregnancy and almost half (43.7%) continued using the same contraceptive method after the event. Conclusions: Family planning needs in HIV‐positive women are not fully addressed because male condoms remained the predominant reported contraceptive method, with a high rate of unintended pregnancies. It is of utmost importance to provide effective contraception such as long‐acting reversible contraceptives for women living with HIV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2018
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23. EP-1465: The benefit of IMPT in treatment of left-sided breast cancer patients in deep inspiration breath hold
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Rasi, M., primary, Odland, O.H., additional, Bolstad Hysing, L., additional, Engeseth, G.M., additional, Petersen, J., additional, Blix, E., additional, Offersen, B., additional, and Muren, M.P., additional
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- 2015
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24. Analytical expression of transient current-potential for redox enzymatic homogenous system
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Rasi, M., primary, Rajendran, L., additional, and Subbiah, A., additional
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- 2015
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25. Analytical Expression of Nonlinear Partial Differential Equations in Mediated Electrochemical Induction of Chemical Reaction
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Vembu, Ananthaswamy, primary, Thangapandi, C., additional, Joy Brieghti, J., additional, Rasi, M., additional, and Lakshmanan, Rajendran, additional
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
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26. Enzyme-Catalyzed Oxygen Reduction Reaction in Biofuel Cells: Analytical Expressions for Chronoamperometric Current Densities
- Author
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Rasi, M., primary, Rajendran, L., additional, and Sangaranarayanan, M. V., additional
- Published
- 2015
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27. Approximate Analytical Expressions for the Steady-State Concentration of Substrate and Cosubstrate over Amperometric Biosensors for Different Enzyme Kinetics
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Rasi, M., primary, Indira, K., additional, and Rajendran, L., additional
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- 2013
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28. Centrioles are freed from cilia by severing prior to mitosis
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Parker, Jeremy D.K., primary, Hilton, Laura K., additional, Diener, Dennis R., additional, Qasim Rasi, M., additional, Mahjoub, Moe R., additional, Rosenbaum, Joel L., additional, and Quarmby, Lynne M., additional
- Published
- 2010
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29. Delivering World Class Wells in Qatar’s North Field: Integrating Innovation and Execution
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Bseiso, N., primary and Rasi, M., additional
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- 2009
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30. Katanin Knockdown Supports a Role for Microtubule Severing in Release of Basal Bodies before Mitosis inChlamydomonas
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Rasi, M. Qasim, primary, Parker, Jeremy D.K., additional, Feldman, Jessica L., additional, Marshall, Wallace F., additional, and Quarmby, Lynne M., additional
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- 2009
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31. A NIMA-related Kinase, Fa2p, Localizes to a Novel Site in the Proximal Cilia ofChlamydomonasand Mouse Kidney Cells
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Mahjoub, Moe R., primary, Qasim Rasi, M., additional, and Quarmby, Lynne M., additional
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- 2004
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32. Visualizing the expanding flow of gas from helium-jet and ion-guide nozzles
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Rasi, M., primary, Saintola, R., additional, and Valli, K., additional
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- 1996
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33. A NIMA-related Kinase, Fa2p, Localizes to a Novel Site in the Proximal Cilia of Chlamydomonasand Mouse Kidney Cells
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Mahjoub, Moe R., Qasim Rasi, M., and Quarmby, Lynne M.
- Abstract
Polycystic kidney disease and related syndromes involve dysregulation of cell proliferation in conjunction with ciliary defects. The relationship between cilia and cell cycle is enigmatic, but it may involve regulation by the NIMA-family of kinases (Neks). We previously showed that the Nek Fa2p is important for ciliary function and cell cycle in Chlamydomonas. We now show that Fa2p localizes to an important regulatory site at the proximal end of cilia in both Chlamydomonasand a mouse kidney cell line. Fa2p also is associated with the proximal end of centrioles. Its localization is dynamic during the cell cycle, following a similar pattern in both cell types. The cell cycle function of Fa2p is kinase independent, whereas its ciliary function is kinase dependent. Mice with mutations in Nek1 or Nek8 have cystic kidneys; therefore, our discovery that a member of this phylogenetic group of Nek proteins is localized to the same sites in Chlamydomonasand kidney epithelial cells suggests that Neks play conserved roles in the coordination of cilia and cell cycle progression.
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- 2004
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34. ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC COMPUTERIZED STUDY IN YOUNG ATHLETES
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Monte, INES PAOLA, La Delfa, G, Rasi, I, Panebianco, Mn, Rasi, M, and Giordano, G.
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ECOCARDIOGRAFIA ,ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY - Published
- 1986
35. Laparoscopic approach to acute abdomen from the Consensus Development Conference of the Società Italiana di Chirurgia Endoscopica e nuove tecnologie (SICE), Associazione Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani (ACOI), Società Italiana di Chirurgia (SIC), Società Italiana di Chirurgia d’Urgenza e del Trauma (SICUT), Società Italiana di Chirurgia nell’Ospedalità Privata (SICOP), and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES)
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Salvatore De Masi, Carlo Bergamini, Massimo Lupo, Carlo Staudacher, Nereo Vettoretto, Anna Levati, Mariano Scaglione, Michele Carlucci, Marsilio Francucci, Emanuele Lettieri, Monica Rasi, Giafranco Cocorullo, Vincenzo Mandalà, Mauro Zago, Domenico Pietrini, Micaela Piccoli, Luca Ansaloni, Giuseppe De Placido, Alessio Corradi, Fabio Cesare Campanile, Silvio Garattini, Gian Luca Baiocchi, Antonino Mirabella, Selman Uranüs, Ferdinando Agresta, Boris Franzato, Graziano Pernazza, Abe Fingerhut, Agresta, F, Ansaloni, L, Baiocchi, Gl, Bergamini, C, Campanile, Fc, Carlucci, M, Cocorullo, G, Corradi, A, Franzato, B, Lupo, M, Mandalà, V, Mirabella, A, Pernazza, G, Piccoli, M, Staudacher, C, Vettoretto, N, Zago, M, Lettieri, E, Levati, A, Pietrini, D, Scaglione, M, De Masi, S, DE PLACIDO, Giuseppe, Francucci, M, Rasi, M, Fingerhut, A, Uranüs, S, Garattini, S., Agresta, F., Ansaloni, L., Baiocchi, G., Bergamini, C., Campanile, F., Carlucci, M., Cocorullo, G., Corradi, A., Franzato, B., Lupo, M., Mandalà, V., Mirabella, A., Pernazza, G., Piccoli, M., Staudacher, C., Vettoretto, N., Zago, M., Lettieri, E., Levati, A., Pietrini, D., Scaglione, M., De Masi, S., De Placido, G., Francucci, M., Rasi, M., Fingerhut, A., and Uranüs, S.
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medicine.medical_specialty ,Digestive System Diseases ,Posture ,laparoscopy ,Endoscopic surgery ,Guideline ,Emergency treatment ,Digestive System Disease ,Positive-Pressure Respiration ,Respiratory Physiological Processe ,acute abdomen ,Ischemia ,Pregnancy ,immune system diseases ,Vascular Disease ,medicine ,Humans ,Anesthesia ,Vascular Diseases ,Hemodynamic ,Obesity ,Emergency Treatment ,Monitoring, Physiologic ,Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ,surgery ,Abdomen, Acute ,business.industry ,Patient Selection ,General surgery ,Hemodynamics ,Acute surgery ,Pregnancy Complication ,Surgery ,Pregnancy Complications ,Settore MED/18 - Chirurgia Generale ,Mesenteric Ischemia ,Respiratory Physiological Phenomena ,Female ,Laparoscopy – Acute abdomen – Guidelines ,business ,Genital Diseases, Female ,Human - Abstract
BACKGROUND: In January 2010, the SICE (Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery), under the auspices of the EAES, decided to revisit the clinical recommendations for the role of laparoscopy in abdominal emergencies in adults, with the primary intent being to update the 2006 EAES indications and supplement the existing guidelines on specific diseases. METHODS: Other Italian surgical societies were invited into the Consensus to form a panel of 12 expert surgeons. In order to get a multidisciplinary panel, other stakeholders involved in abdominal emergencies were invited along with a patient's association. In November 2010, the panel met in Rome to discuss each chapter according to the Delphi method, producing key statements with a grade of recommendations followed by commentary to explain the rationale and the level of evidence behind the statements. Thereafter, the statements were presented to the Annual Congress of the EAES in June 2011. RESULTS: A thorough literature review was necessary to assess whether the recommendations issued in 2006 are still current. In many cases new studies allowed us to better clarify some issues (such as for diverticulitis, small bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, hernias, trauma), to confirm the key role of laparoscopy (such as for cholecystitis, gynecological disorders, nonspecific abdominal pain, appendicitis), but occasionally previous strong recommendations have to be challenged after review of recent research (such as for perforated peptic ulcer). CONCLUSIONS: Every surgeon has to develop his or her own approach, taking into account the clinical situation, her/his proficiency (and the experience of the team) with the various techniques, and the specific organizational setting in which she/he is working. This guideline has been developed bearing in mind that every surgeon could use the data reported to support her/his judgment.
- Published
- 2012
36. Critical care nurses' competence in mentoring students in intensive care units-A cross-sectional study.
- Author
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Rasi M, Hanssen TA, Norbye B, Mikkonen K, and Kvande ME
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- Humans, Cross-Sectional Studies, Norway, Female, Adult, Male, Surveys and Questionnaires, Mentors statistics & numerical data, Clinical Competence standards, Clinical Competence statistics & numerical data, Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate methods, Middle Aged, Mentoring methods, Critical Care Nursing education, Students, Nursing statistics & numerical data, Students, Nursing psychology, Intensive Care Units
- Abstract
Background: Mentors play an important role in the practical education of critical care nursing students in intensive care units, yet little is known about the mentoring competencies of critical care nurses., Aim: The aim of this study was to assess Norwegian critical care nurses' competence in mentoring students in intensive care units., Design: This study has a descriptive, cross-sectional design, utilising a self-administered online survey., Settings: The study population consisted of critical care nurses who mentor students in Norwegian intensive care units., Participants: 178 critical care nurses participated in the study. The participants were recruited by contacting the units directly, through social media, and at a national critical care nursing conference., Methods: The study utilised the Mentors' Competence Instrument, a self-evaluation tool for evaluating mentoring competence., Results: The Norwegian critical care nurses generally evaluated their mentoring competence as middle to high level. The "reflection during mentoring" dimension was rated as the highest and "student-centered evaluation" as the lowest competence dimension. The critical care nurses who had formal mentoring education reported significantly higher mentoring competences, but the other demographic characteristics were not related to mentoring competence. Regardless of previous mentoring education, most participants reported a need to further develop their mentoring competencies., Conclusions: Employers should collaborate with educational institutions to establish a system for continuous competence development for critical care nurse mentors., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Editor in Nurse Education Today - Kristina Mikkonen If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2024
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37. Effects of Pycnogenol® in people with post-COVID-19 condition (PYCNOVID): study protocol for a single-center, placebo controlled, quadruple-blind, randomized trial.
- Author
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Radtke T, Künzi L, Kopp J, Rasi M, Braun J, Zens KD, Winter B, Anagnostopoulos A, Puhan MA, and Fehr JS
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- Humans, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic, Quality of Life, COVID-19, Treatment Outcome, SARS-CoV-2 drug effects, Health Status, COVID-19 Drug Treatment, Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome, Adult, Female, Male, Antioxidants therapeutic use, Antioxidants adverse effects, Anti-Inflammatory Agents therapeutic use, Anti-Inflammatory Agents adverse effects, Plant Extracts therapeutic use, Plant Extracts adverse effects, Flavonoids therapeutic use
- Abstract
Background: A significant proportion of the global population has been infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at some point since the onset of the pandemic. Although most individuals who develop coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) recover without complications, about 6% have persistent symptoms, referred to as post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). Intervention studies investigating treatments that potentially alleviate PCC-related symptoms and thus aim to mitigate the global public health burden and healthcare costs linked to PCC are desperately needed. The PYCNOVID trial investigates the effects of Pycnogenol®, a French maritime pine bark extract with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, versus placebo on patient-reported health status in people with PCC., Methods: This is a single-center, placebo-controlled, quadruple blind, randomized trial. We aim to randomly assign 150 individuals with PCC (1:1 ratio) to receive either 200 mg Pycnogenol® or placebo daily for 12 weeks. Randomization is stratified for duration of PCC symptoms (≤ 6 months versus > 6 months) and presence of symptomatic chronic disease(s). The primary endpoint is perceived health status at 12 weeks (EuroQol-Visual Analogue Scale) adjusted for baseline values and stratification factors. Secondary endpoints include change in self-reported PCC symptoms, health-related quality of life, symptoms of depression and anxiety, cognitive function, functional exercise capacity, physical activity measured with accelerometry, and blood biomarkers for endothelial health, inflammation, coagulation, platelet function, and oxidative stress. Investigators, study participants, outcome assessors, and data analysts are blinded regarding the intervention assignment. Individuals with PCC were involved in the design of this study., Discussion: This is the first trial to investigate the effects of Pycnogenol® versus placebo on patient-reported health status in people with PCC. Should the trial proof clinical effectiveness, Pycnogenol® may serve as a therapeutic approach to mitigate symptoms associated with PCC., Trial Registration: The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov. :NCT05890534, June 6, 2023., (© 2024. The Author(s).)
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- 2024
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38. Incidence of sexually transmitted infections and association with behavioural factors: Time-to-event analysis of a large pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) cohort.
- Author
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Hovaguimian F, Kouyos RD, Kusejko K, Schmidt AJ, Tarr PE, Bernasconi E, Braun DL, Calmy A, Notter J, Stoeckle M, Surial B, Christinet V, Darling KEA, Depmeier C, Läuchli S, Reinacher M, Rasi M, Nicca D, Bruggmann P, Haerry D, Bize R, Low N, Vock F, El Amari EB, Böni J, Bosshard PP, Fehr JS, and Hampel B
- Subjects
- Male, Humans, Adult, Incidence, Homosexuality, Male, Syphilis epidemiology, Gonorrhea epidemiology, HIV Infections epidemiology, HIV Infections prevention & control, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Sexual and Gender Minorities, Sexually Transmitted Diseases epidemiology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases prevention & control, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Bacterial epidemiology
- Abstract
Objectives: Our objective was to obtain long-term data on the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their association with behavioural factors after widespread pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) implementation., Methods: This was a time-to-event analysis of a national PrEP cohort in Switzerland (SwissPrEPared study). Participants were people without HIV interested in taking PrEP with at least two STI screening visits. Primary outcomes were incidence rate of gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and syphilis. The association between behavioural factors and STI diagnosis was expressed using hazard ratios. We adjusted for testing frequency and calendar year., Results: This analysis included 3907 participants enrolled between April 2019 and April 2022, yielding 3815.7 person-years of follow-up for gonorrhoea (15 134 screenings), 3802.5 for chlamydia (15 141 screenings), and 3858.6 for syphilis (15 001 screenings). The median age was 39 years (interquartile range [IQR] 32-47), 93.8% (n = 3664) identified as men who have sex with men (MSM). The incidence was 22.8 (95% confidence interval [CI] 21.3-24.4) per 100 person-years for gonorrhoea, 26.3 (95% CI 24.7-28.0) for chlamydia, and 4.4 (95% CI 3.8-5.1) for syphilis. Yearly incidence rates decreased between 2019 (all bacterial STIs: 81.6; 95% CI 59.1-109.9) and 2022 (all bacterial STIs: 49.8; 95% CI 44.6-55.3). Participants reporting chemsex substance use were at higher risk of incident STIs, as were those reporting multiple sexual partners. Younger age was associated with a higher risk of gonorrhoea and chlamydia., Conclusions: Incidence rates of bacterial STIs decreased over time. Young MSM, those with multiple partners, and those using chemsex substances were at increased risk of STIs., (© 2023 The Authors. HIV Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British HIV Association.)
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- 2024
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39. Changes in mental and sexual health among MSM using HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: longitudinal analysis of the SwissPrEPared cohort study.
- Author
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Winter BL, Hovaguimian F, Kouyos RD, Schmidt AJ, Bernasconi E, Braun DL, Calmy A, Notter J, Stoeckle M, Surial B, Christinet V, Cavassini M, Depmeier C, Läuchli S, Boffi El Amari E, Reinacher M, Rasi M, Bruggmann P, Haerry D, Bize R, Low N, Lehner A, Quednow BB, Fehr JS, and Hampel B
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- Cohort Studies, Communicable Disease Control, Homosexuality, Male, Humans, Male, Pandemics prevention & control, SARS-CoV-2, Sexual Behavior, COVID-19 prevention & control, HIV Infections drug therapy, HIV Infections epidemiology, HIV Infections prevention & control, Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, Sexual Health, Sexual and Gender Minorities
- Abstract
Background: Changes in mental and sexual health among men having sex with men (MSM) due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic remain unclear., Methods: Design: Longitudinal analysis of an ongoing, multicentre, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) cohort (NCT03893188) in Switzerland. Participants: HIV-negative MSM aged ≥18 who completed at least one questionnaire before and one after the start of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Outcomes: Primary: mental health, defined as anxiety and depression scores assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-4. Secondary: sexual behaviour, well-being, PrEP use and disruption of care. Outcomes were assessed over seven periods corresponding to different SARS-CoV-2 prevention measures in Switzerland. We performed pairwise comparisons between periods (Wilcoxon signed rank test)., Results: Data from 1,043 participants were included. Whilst anxiety scores remained stable over time, depression scores worsened in the second wave and the second lockdown period compared to pre-pandemic scores. This was confirmed by pairwise comparisons (pre-SARS-CoV-2/second wave and pre-SARS-CoV-2/second lockdown: p <0.001). Downward trends in sexual activity,sexualized substance use, and a switch from daily to "event-driven" PrEP were found. Disruption of care affected 42.6% (790/1856) of daily PrEP users' follow-up visits., Conclusion: In this longitudinal analysis of a PrEP cohort enrolling MSM, depression scores worsened in the second wave and the second lockdown compared to the pre-pandemic period.
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- 2022
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40. Family involvement in the intensive care unit in four Nordic countries.
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Frivold G, Ågård AS, Jensen HI, Åkerman E, Fossum M, Alfheim HB, Rasi M, and Lind R
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- Adult, Child, Critical Care, Cross-Sectional Studies, Family, Humans, Surveys and Questionnaires, Intensive Care Units, Visitors to Patients
- Abstract
Background: Relevance to clinical practice The findings from the study highlighting family involvement, high-quality communication and flexible visiting policy as central aspects of family care may inspire clinicians to identify aspects of everyday family care in their ICUs calling for further improvement., Aims and Objectives: To describe family involvement, communication practices and visiting policies in adult ICUs., Design: A cross-sectional survey., Method: A questionnaire consisting of 11 sections was developed, pilot tested and e-mailed to 196 ICUs. The participants were intensive care nurses in adult ICUs in four Nordic countries., Results: The survey was conducted in October to December 2019. The response rate was 81% (158/196) of the invited ICUs. Most of the units had fewer than 11 beds. Family participation in patient care, including involvement in ward rounds and presence during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, varied between the countries, whereas most families in all countries were involved in decision-making. Family conferences were generally initiated by staff or family members. Children under 18 did not always receive information directly from the staff, and parents were not advised about how to inform their children. Although most respondents described open visiting, restrictions were also mentioned in free-text comments., Conclusions: The level of family care in ICUs in the four Nordic countries is generally based on nurses' discretion. Although most Nordic ICUs report having an open or flexible visiting policy, a wide range of potential restrictions still exists. Children and young relatives are not routinely followed up. Family members are included in communication and decision-making, whereas family involvement in daily care, ward rounds and family-witnessed resuscitation seem to be areas with a potential for improvement., (© 2021 The Authors. Nursing in Critical Care published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd on behalf of British Association of Critical Care Nurses.)
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- 2022
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41. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, associated factors, experiences and attitudes of nursing home and home healthcare employees in Switzerland.
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West EA, Kotoun OJ, Schori LJ, Kopp J, Kaufmann M, Rasi M, Fehr J, Puhan MA, and Frei A
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- Adult, Attitude, Cross-Sectional Studies, Delivery of Health Care, Humans, Middle Aged, Nursing Homes, Personnel, Hospital, SARS-CoV-2, Seroepidemiologic Studies, Surveys and Questionnaires, Switzerland epidemiology, Young Adult, COVID-19 epidemiology, Home Care Services
- Abstract
Background: Many studies in hospital settings exist and have shown healthcare employees to be particularly exposed to SARS-CoV-2. While research focused on hospital staff, little evidence exists for employees in nursing homes and home care. The aims of this study were to assess the seroprevalence in nursing homes and home care employees in the Canton of Zurich, compare it to the general population, assess factors associated with seropositivity and explore the perspective of the employees regarding how the pandemic changed their daily work., Methods: This cross-sectional study is part of the national Corona Immunitas research program of coordinated, seroprevalence studies in Switzerland. Six nursing homes and six home healthcare organizations providing at home care services in Zurich were selected and 296 and 131 employees were recruited, respectively. Assessments included standardized questionnaires, blood sampling for antibodies, and additional work-specific questions. All participants were recruited between 21st September and 23rd October 2020, before the second wave of the pandemic hit Switzerland, and were possibly exposed to SARS-CoV-2 at their work during the first wave in spring 2020., Results: Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was 14.9% (95% CI 11.1%-19.6%; range 3.8% to 24.4%) for nursing home employees and 3.8% (95% CI 1.4-9.1%; range 0% to 10%) for home healthcare employees, compared to the general population of Zurich at 3.5% in September 2020 for those aged 20-64. Nurses were 2.6 times more likely to have SARS-CoV-2 antibodies than those employees who were not nurses (95% CI 1.1-6.2). The employees (nursing homes vs. home healthcare) perceived the implementation of general safety measures (44.9% vs. 57.3%) and wearing masks during work (36.8% vs. 43.5%), especially due to the limited communication with residents/clients, as the most crucial changes., Conclusions: Nursing home employees who worked through SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks at their work were substantially more affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection compared to the general population and to home healthcare employees who similarly worked through outbreaks in their communities. Employees reported that important resources to cope with the burdensome changes they perceived in their daily work were personal resources and team support., Trial Registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN18181860 dated 09/07/2020. Retrospectively registered., (© 2022. The Author(s).)
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- 2022
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42. Response to a sexual risk reduction intervention provided in combination with hepatitis C treatment by HIV/HCV co-infected men who have sex with men: a reflexive thematic analysis.
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Künzler-Heule P, Fierz K, Schmidt AJ, Rasi M, Bogdanovic J, Kocher A, Engberg S, Battegay M, Nöstlinger C, Lehner A, Kouyos R, Schmid P, Braun DL, Fehr J, and Nicca D
- Subjects
- Adult, HIV Infections pathology, Hepatitis C complications, Hepatitis C psychology, Homosexuality, Male, Humans, Interviews as Topic, Male, Middle Aged, Program Evaluation, Risk Reduction Behavior, Antiviral Agents therapeutic use, Coinfection pathology, HIV Infections complications, Hepatitis C drug therapy
- Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus reinfections in HIV-positive men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM) challenge the effectiveness of antiviral treatment. To fight this problem, an adapted sexual risk reduction intervention was implemented within a hepatitis C treatment trial. Following this, the current study had two aims and describes 1) how the program was received by participants; and 2) their responses to the program regarding sexual risk taking. Based on the participants' input, we hoped to judge the intervention's potential for scale-up., Methods: Seventeen participants who received the sexual risk reduction intervention in addition to hepatitis C treatment were recruited for semi-structured interviews six to 12 months post-intervention. We evaluated the responses via reflexive thematic analysis and applied the concept of sense-making., Results: Giving hepatitis C a place and living without it again illustrates how participants received the program and how their experiences were altered by the impact of sense-making. Based on their responses, we allocated participants to three groups: 1. Avoid risks: get rid of hepatitis C for life. For these men, hepatitis C remained a life-threatening disease: they actively modified their risk behavior and felt supported by the intervention in maintaining their behavioral changes. 2. Minimize risks: live as long as possible without hepatitis C. In contrast to group 1, these men saw hepatitis C as a manageable disease. The intervention facilitated reflection on risks and how to develop behavioral changes that suited them individually. 3. Accept risks; live with the risk of hepatitis C. These men perceived behavioral changes as much more difficult than "easy" medical treatment. They expected to either undergo repeated rounds of treatment or stay HCV re-infected., Conclusion: These results illustrate the diversity of men's responses and their decisions regarding sexual risk behavior after participating in a combination of antiviral treatment and a sexual risk reduction intervention. Two major aspects were identified: 1) Teachable moments, particularly at the time of diagnosis/treatment, could offer an opportunity to develop openness for behavioral change; 2) adapting sexual risk reduction interventions to sense-making patterns could help to improve its effectiveness. Support for reducing infection risk and raising awareness of preventative measures are additional benefits., Trial Registration: Clinical Trial Number: NCT02785666 , 30.05.2016.
- Published
- 2021
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43. The Swiss STAR trial - an evaluation of target groups for sexually transmitted infection screening in the sub-sample of women.
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Vernazza PL, Rasi M, Ritzler M, Dost F, Stoffel M, Aebi-Popp K, Hauser CV, Esson C, Lange K, Risch L, and Schmidt AJ
- Subjects
- Female, Humans, Prevalence, Sex Work, Switzerland epidemiology, HIV Infections diagnosis, HIV Infections epidemiology, Sex Workers, Sexually Transmitted Diseases diagnosis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases epidemiology
- Abstract
Objectives: In Switzerland, universal health insurance does not cover any routine testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), not even in individuals at high risk, and extra-genital swabbing is not standard of care. We compared STI prevalence in a multicentre prospective observational cohort of multi-partner women with/without sex work and evaluated associated risk factors., Materials and Methods: Between January 2016 and June 2017, we offered free STI testing to women with multiple sexual partners (three or more in the previous 12 months), with follow-up examinations every 6 months. We used multiplex polymerase chain-reaction testing (for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma genitalium) for pooled swabs (pharynx, urethra/vagina, anus), and antibody tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Treponema pallidum at every visit, and for hepatitis B and C at baseline., Results: We screened 490 female sex workers (FSWs), including 17 trans women, and 92 other multi-partner women. More than half reported a steady partner. Previously undiagnosed HIV was found in 0.2% vs 0.0%, respectively, and T. pallidum antibodies in 5.9% vs 0.0%. STIs requiring antibiotic treatment comprised: active syphilis 1.2% vs 0.0%; N. gonorrhoeae 4.9% vs 0.0%; C. trachomatis 6.3% vs 5.4%, T. vaginalis 10.4% vs 0.0%; M. genitalium 6.7% vs 6.5%. One in four FSWs vs one in nine other women had one or more of these STIs at baseline. 15.8% vs 3.8% had a history of hepatitis B, 45.5% vs 22.8% had no immunity (HBs-AB <10 IU/l). Two FSWs had hepatitis C virus antibodies (0.4%) without concurrent HIV infection. Non-condom-use (last three months) for anal/vaginal sex was not associated with STIs. Independent risk factors were group sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–4.0), age less than 25 (aOR 3.7, 95% CI 1.6–8.9), and being active in sex work for less than 1 year (aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–5.3)., Conclusion: HIV and HCV do not appear to pose a major public health problem among FSWs in Switzerland, whereas vaccination against HBV should be promoted. FSWs showed high rates of STIs requiring treatment to reduce transmission to clients and/or steady partners. FSWs should be offered low-cost or free STI screening as a public health priority.
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- 2020
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44. The Swiss STAR trial - an evaluation of target groups for sexually transmitted infection screening in the sub-sample of men.
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Schmidt AJ, Rasi M, Esson C, Christinet V, Ritzler M, Lung T, Hauser CV, Stöckle M, Jouinot F, Lehner A, Lange K, Konrad T, and Vernazza PL
- Subjects
- Female, Homosexuality, Male, Humans, Male, Prevalence, Prospective Studies, Seroepidemiologic Studies, Switzerland epidemiology, HIV Infections diagnosis, HIV Infections epidemiology, Sexual and Gender Minorities, Sexually Transmitted Diseases diagnosis, Sexually Transmitted Diseases epidemiology
- Abstract
Objectives: In Switzerland, universal health insurance does not cover any routine testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), not even in individuals at high risk, and extra-genital swabbing is not standard of care. We determined the prevalence and incidence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), viral hepatitis and non-viral STIs in a multicentre prospective observational cohort of multi-partner men who have sex with men (MSM) and other men., Materials and Methods: Between January 2016 and June 2017, we offered free STI testing to all men with multiple sexual partners (three or more in the previous 12 months), with follow-up examinations every 6 months. We used multiplex polymerase chain-reaction testing (for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Mycoplasma genitalium) on pooled swabs (pharynx, urethra/vagina, anus), and antibody tests for HIV and Treponema pallidum at every visit, and for hepatitis B/C at baseline., Results: We screened 779 multi-partner MSM and 92 other men. Previously undiagnosed HIV was found in 0.5% vs 0.0%, respectively and T. pallidum antibodies in 15.3% vs 1.1%. STIs requiring antibiotic treatment comprised: active syphilis 1.7% vs 0.0%; N. gonorrhoeae 10.3% vs 0.0%; C. trachomatis 8.7% vs 1.1%. One in four MSM versus 1 in 100 other multi-partner men had any of these three STIs at baseline. 10.4% vs 1.3% had a history of hepatitis B, 31.9% vs 47.3% had no immunity (HBs-AB <10 IU/l). Ten MSM had HCV antibodies (1.4%), with 8 out of the 10 being MSM with HIV; HCV seroprevalence was 0.3% among HIV-negative MSM. In MSM, incidence of the three bacterial STIs was 25.5 per year over 333 person years of follow-up, HIV incidence was 0.3%. Non-condom-use (in the last 3 months) for anal/vaginal sex was not associated with STIs. Independent risk factors were sex with men (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 16.4) and the number of sexual partners (aOR 2.3 for >20)., Conclusion: Among MSM, but not among other multi-partner men, STIs, mostly asymptomatic, are common. Given the high risk of onward transmission, low-cost or free routine screening of multi-partner MSM is a public health priority.
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- 2020
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45. The quality of measurement properties of neurocognitive assessment in brain tumor clinical trials over the last 30 years: a COSMIN checklist-based approach.
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De Martino M, Santini B, Cappelletti G, Mazzotta A, Rasi M, Bulgarelli G, Annicchiarico L, Marcocci A, and Talacchi A
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- Consensus, Humans, Reproducibility of Results, Surveys and Questionnaires, Brain Neoplasms complications, Brain Neoplasms diagnosis, Brain Neoplasms therapy, Checklist
- Abstract
Purpose: To provide an exhaustive review of the neuropsychological examination as conducted in brain tumor clinical trials over the last 30 years and to provide objective ratings about the reliability and suitability of such tests in neurooncological research and clinical practice., Methods: Methodologies and tools provided by the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) were exploited in order to assess the measurement properties of questionnaires and performance-based instruments used to evaluate cognitive functioning in brain tumor clinical trials from 1997 to 2017., Results: Twenty-six brain tumor clinical trials were analyzed and an overall set of 10 neuropsychological tests was identified. A list of 24 studies concerning the reliability of such tests was analyzed. Reliability and level of evidence scores for each study and for each test were obtained. The results revealed relevant faults about the quality of measurements and the suitability of the neurocognitive assessment batteries most commonly used in brain tumor clinical trials., Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the cognitive assessment in brain tumor clinical trials should be implemented according to specific endpoints and should be addressed to investigate all the cognitive domains known to be affected by brain tumor and treatment.
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- 2020
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46. Statistical motion modelling for robust evaluation of clinically delivered accumulated dose distributions after curative radiotherapy of locally advanced prostate cancer.
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Hysing LB, Ekanger C, Zolnay Á, Helle SI, Rasi M, Heijmen BJM, Sikora M, Söhn M, Muren LP, and Thörnqvist S
- Subjects
- Aged, Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Models, Statistical, Movement, Radiotherapy Dosage, Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted methods, Radiotherapy, Conformal methods, Radiotherapy, Intensity-Modulated methods, Rectum radiation effects, Retrospective Studies, Tomography, X-Ray Computed methods, Urinary Bladder radiation effects, Neoplasm Recurrence, Local radiotherapy, Prostatic Neoplasms radiotherapy
- Abstract
Background and Purpose: Planned doses are used as surrogate for the actually delivered dose in radiotherapy. We have estimated the delivered dose in a dose-escalation trial of locally advanced prostate cancer by statistical dose-accumulation and by DVH-summation, and compared to planned dose., Materials and Method: Prescribed dose-escalation to the prostate was 67.5 Gy/25fr., corresponding to 81GyEQD2 assuming α/β = 1.5. The 21 patients had three targets (i.e. CTV67.5 + 2 mm, CTV60 + 5 mm, CTV50 + 10 mm) irradiated by a simultaneous-integrated-boost technique. Analysis was based on 213 CT scans and 5-years of follow-up. For statistical dose-accumulation, we modelled 10000 possible treatment courses based on planned dose and deformation-vector-fields from contour-based registration. For DVH-summation we recalculated dose on repeat-CTs and estimated median D98%/EUD. Groups with/without disease recurrence were compared., Results: Discrepancies between planned and accumulated dose were mostly seen for CTV67.5, where under-dosage was found at different locations in the prostate in 12/21 patients. Delivered dose-escalation (D98%) was on average 73.9GyEQD2 (range: 68.3-78.7GyEQD2). No significant difference in accumulated-D98% was found in patients with (n = 8) and without (n = 13) recurrence (p > 0.05). Average D98%/EUD with statistical dose-accumulation vs DVH-summation was significantly different in CTV60, CTV50, rectum and bladder but not in CTV67.5., Conclusion: The planned dose escalation was not received by more than half-of-the patients. Robustness of the prostate target (CTV67.5) should therefore be better prioritized in these patients given the low toxicity profile. Estimates of delivered dose were less conservative for dose-accumulation due to interaction of random organ motion with the dose matrix., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2018
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47. "Fighting an uphill battle": experience with the HCV triple therapy: a qualitative thematic analysis.
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Rasi M, Künzler-Heule P, Schmid P, Semela D, Bruggmann P, Fehr J, Saxer S, and Nicca D
- Subjects
- Adult, Antiviral Agents adverse effects, Drug Therapy, Combination psychology, Evaluation Studies as Topic, Female, Genotype, Hepacivirus genetics, Hepacivirus isolation & purification, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Oligopeptides therapeutic use, Proline analogs & derivatives, Proline therapeutic use, Antiviral Agents therapeutic use, Hepatitis C, Chronic drug therapy, Hepatitis C, Chronic psychology, Protease Inhibitors therapeutic use
- Abstract
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are a severe burden on public health worldwide, causing mortality rates triple that of the general population. Since 2011, for both therapy-naive and therapy-experienced genotype 1 patients, the first generation of direct acting antivirals (DAAs), i.e., the protease-inhibitors (PI) telaprevir and boceprevir have been added to existing dual therapies. The therapeutic effect of the resulting triple therapy is striking; however, treatment regimens are complex and commonly cause side effects. Little is known of how patients implement therapy in their daily lives, or of how they deal with these effects.This study aims to describe HCV patients' experiences with protease-inhibitor-based triple therapy and their support needs., Methods: A qualitative design was used. Patients from three outpatient clinics, with ongoing, completed or discontinued PI treatment experience were recruited using a maximum variation sampling approach. Open-ended interviews were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis according to Braun & Clarke (Qual Res Psychol 3:77-101, 2006)., Results: Thirteen patients participated in the interviews. All described themselves as highly motivated to undergo treatment, since they saw the new therapy as a "real chance" for a cure. However, all later described the therapy period as a struggle. The constitutive theme-"Fighting an uphill battle"- describes the common existential experience of and negative consequences of coping with side effects. The processes that fostered this common experience followed three sub-themes: "encountering surprises", "dealing with disruption" and "reaching the limits of systems"., Conclusion: HCV patients undergoing outpatient protease-inhibitor-based triple therapy need systematic support in symptom management. This will require specially trained professionals to advise and support them and their families, and to provide rapid responses to their needs throughout this complex course of therapy. As the generation of DAAs for all genotypes, are expected to have less severe side effects, and many HCV patients require treatment, this knowledge can improve treatment support tremendously, especially for patients who are quite difficult to treat. Furthermore, these findings are helpful to illustrate development in HCV treatment.
- Published
- 2014
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48. Laparoscopic approach to acute abdomen from the Consensus Development Conference of the Società Italiana di Chirurgia Endoscopica e nuove tecnologie (SICE), Associazione Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani (ACOI), Società Italiana di Chirurgia (SIC), Società Italiana di Chirurgia d'Urgenza e del Trauma (SICUT), Società Italiana di Chirurgia nell'Ospedalità Privata (SICOP), and the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES).
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Agresta F, Ansaloni L, Baiocchi GL, Bergamini C, Campanile FC, Carlucci M, Cocorullo G, Corradi A, Franzato B, Lupo M, Mandalà V, Mirabella A, Pernazza G, Piccoli M, Staudacher C, Vettoretto N, Zago M, Lettieri E, Levati A, Pietrini D, Scaglione M, De Masi S, De Placido G, Francucci M, Rasi M, Fingerhut A, Uranüs S, and Garattini S
- Subjects
- Anesthesia methods, Emergency Treatment methods, Female, Hemodynamics physiology, Humans, Mesenteric Ischemia, Monitoring, Physiologic, Obesity complications, Patient Selection, Positive-Pressure Respiration, Posture, Pregnancy, Pregnancy Complications surgery, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic, Respiratory Physiological Phenomena, Abdomen, Acute surgery, Digestive System Diseases surgery, Genital Diseases, Female surgery, Ischemia surgery, Laparoscopy methods, Vascular Diseases surgery
- Abstract
Background: In January 2010, the SICE (Italian Society of Endoscopic Surgery), under the auspices of the EAES, decided to revisit the clinical recommendations for the role of laparoscopy in abdominal emergencies in adults, with the primary intent being to update the 2006 EAES indications and supplement the existing guidelines on specific diseases., Methods: Other Italian surgical societies were invited into the Consensus to form a panel of 12 expert surgeons. In order to get a multidisciplinary panel, other stakeholders involved in abdominal emergencies were invited along with a patient's association. In November 2010, the panel met in Rome to discuss each chapter according to the Delphi method, producing key statements with a grade of recommendations followed by commentary to explain the rationale and the level of evidence behind the statements. Thereafter, the statements were presented to the Annual Congress of the EAES in June 2011., Results: A thorough literature review was necessary to assess whether the recommendations issued in 2006 are still current. In many cases new studies allowed us to better clarify some issues (such as for diverticulitis, small bowel obstruction, pancreatitis, hernias, trauma), to confirm the key role of laparoscopy (such as for cholecystitis, gynecological disorders, nonspecific abdominal pain, appendicitis), but occasionally previous strong recommendations have to be challenged after review of recent research (such as for perforated peptic ulcer)., Conclusions: Every surgeon has to develop his or her own approach, taking into account the clinical situation, her/his proficiency (and the experience of the team) with the various techniques, and the specific organizational setting in which she/he is working. This guideline has been developed bearing in mind that every surgeon could use the data reported to support her/his judgment.
- Published
- 2012
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49. Assessment of late urinary, bowel and sexual function after dose escalation from 70 to 76 Gy using image-guided radiotherapy in curative treatment of prostate cancer.
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Haugnes HS, Melby B, Larsen KM, Langdal I, Rasi M, and Bremnes RM
- Subjects
- Abdominal Pain etiology, Aged, Chi-Square Distribution, Confidence Intervals, Fecal Incontinence etiology, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Nocturia etiology, Odds Ratio, Penile Erection radiation effects, Radiotherapy Dosage, Retrospective Studies, Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological physiopathology, Statistics, Nonparametric, Surveys and Questionnaires, Time Factors, Urinary Incontinence etiology, Defecation radiation effects, Prostatic Neoplasms radiotherapy, Radiotherapy, Image-Guided adverse effects, Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological etiology, Urination radiation effects
- Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the late urinary, bowel and sexual function among men with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer treated with curative radiotherapy after the introduction of image-guided radiotherapy to 76 Gy using the Swedish BeamCath® technique., Material and Methods: All patients treated with curative radiotherapy during 2003-2006 were invited to participate in this retrospective study. In total, 87% (158/181) participated in the study. The median observation time was 35 months. Comparisons were made between the standard 70 Gy (n = 73) and the 76 Gy (n = 85) treatment groups. Assessments of late urinary, bowel and sexual function were questionnaire based, and included function items in the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite., Results: Most late urinary and bowel symptoms were reported to occur seldom or never in the majority of men, while late sexual toxicity was reported in a large proportion (66%) of men. Seven men (4%) used diapers. Only 25% (n = 40) reported having an erection firm enough for intercourse. None of the reported urinary or sexual function symptoms differed between the treatment groups. Rectal urgency at least once daily was a more frequent symptom in the 70 Gy group than the 76 Gy group (28% vs 9%, p = 0.006). Painful bowel movements were a more common symptom in the 70 Gy group (11% vs 1%, p = 0.01)., Conclusion: Dose escalation up to 76 Gy using the BeamCath technique was not associated with more late toxicities than the standard 70 Gy dose.
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- 2012
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50. A NIMA-related kinase, Fa2p, localizes to a novel site in the proximal cilia of Chlamydomonas and mouse kidney cells.
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Mahjoub MR, Qasim Rasi M, and Quarmby LM
- Subjects
- Animals, Cell Cycle, Cell Cycle Proteins chemistry, Cell Line, Centrioles metabolism, Centrioles ultrastructure, DNA, Complementary metabolism, Epitopes chemistry, Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect, Green Fluorescent Proteins metabolism, Immunoblotting, Kidney pathology, Mice, Mitosis, Mutation, NIMA-Related Kinase 1, NIMA-Related Kinases, Protein Kinases metabolism, Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases chemistry, Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases metabolism, Protein Structure, Tertiary, Protein-Tyrosine Kinases metabolism, Signal Transduction, Subcellular Fractions metabolism, Time Factors, Cell Cycle Proteins physiology, Chlamydomonas metabolism, Cilia metabolism, Kidney metabolism, Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases biosynthesis, Protein Serine-Threonine Kinases physiology
- Abstract
Polycystic kidney disease and related syndromes involve dysregulation of cell proliferation in conjunction with ciliary defects. The relationship between cilia and cell cycle is enigmatic, but it may involve regulation by the NIMA-family of kinases (Neks). We previously showed that the Nek Fa2p is important for ciliary function and cell cycle in Chlamydomonas. We now show that Fa2p localizes to an important regulatory site at the proximal end of cilia in both Chlamydomonas and a mouse kidney cell line. Fa2p also is associated with the proximal end of centrioles. Its localization is dynamic during the cell cycle, following a similar pattern in both cell types. The cell cycle function of Fa2p is kinase independent, whereas its ciliary function is kinase dependent. Mice with mutations in Nek1 or Nek8 have cystic kidneys; therefore, our discovery that a member of this phylogenetic group of Nek proteins is localized to the same sites in Chlamydomonas and kidney epithelial cells suggests that Neks play conserved roles in the coordination of cilia and cell cycle progression.
- Published
- 2004
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