Early Relative Growth Rate of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms and Future Risk of Rupture or Repair.

Objective: This study aimed to test whether the relative growth rate of subthreshold abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in the first 24 months of surveillance predicts the risk of future rupture or repair.

Methods: This was a single centre retrospective observational analysis of all small (< 45 mm diameter) and medium (45 - 54 mm in men, 45 - 50 mm in women) AAAs entered into ultrasound surveillance between January 2002 and December 2019, which received ≥ 24 months of surveillance. Relative growth rates were calculated from measurements taken in the first 24 months of surveillance.

DNA fingerprinting analysis of coagulase negative staphylococci implicated in catheter related bloodstream infections.

Aims: The epidemiological assessment of cases of coagulase negative staphylococcal catheter related bloodstream infection.

Methods: Two hundred and thirty patients with suspected catheter related bloodstream infection were evaluated over a two year period. Central venous catheters were cultured both endoluminally and extraluminally.

Evaluation of a novel endoluminal brush method for in situ diagnosis of catheter related sepsis.

Aims: To determine the accuracy of a novel endoluminal brush method for the diagnosis of catheter related sepsis (CRS), which is performed in situ and hence does not require line sacrifice.

Methods: 230 central venous catheters in 216 patients were examined prospectively for evidence of CRS or colonisation using an endoluminal brush method in conjunction with peripheral blood cultures. The results were compared with those obtained using methods that require line sacrifice: extraluminal sampling (Maki roll) or endoluminal sampling (modified Cleri flush) of microorganisms.

Factors influencing the initiation of carious lesions in specific tooth surfaces over a 4-year period in children between the ages of 11-12 years and 15-16 years.

An analysis of factors influencing the initiation of carious lesions on specific tooth surfaces over a 4-year period in children between the ages of 11-12 years and 15-16 years is presented. Approximately 1000 children, resident in the County of South Glamorgan, Wales, were assessed for caries status and oral cleanliness in 1980 when aged 11-12 years and again in 1984 when aged 15-16 years. On both occasions, the children completed detailed questionnaires on dental health-related topics.