Publications by authors named "C Stillson"

Background: We have previously shown that dyssynchronous premature atrial complexes (PACs) from the lateral left atrium (LA) lead to greater atrial mechanical dysfunction, remodeling, and sustained atrial fibrillation (AF) than synchronous PACs from the interatrial septum. However, the impact of PAC coupling interval (CI) on atrial remodeling is unclear.

Objectives: This study sought to explore the effect of PAC CI on atrial mechanics and remodeling in the swine model.

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Across sub-Saharan Africa, men are less likely to know their HIV status than women, leading to later treatment initiation. Little is known about how experiences with general health services affect men's use of HIV testing. We used data from a 2019 community-representative survey of men in Malawi to understand frequency and cause of men's negative health service experiences (defined as men reporting they "would not recommend" a facility) and their association with future HIV testing.

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Article Synopsis
  • Frequent premature atrial complexes (PACs) lead to significant atrial remodeling in swine, particularly when originating from the lateral left atrium, increasing P-wave duration and mechanical dyssynchrony.
  • The study found that PACs from the lateral left atrium resulted in slower conduction velocity, increased fibrosis in the left atrium, and elevated levels of specific proteins associated with fibrosis and remodeling.
  • Additionally, swine with lateral left atrium PACs exhibited the longest durations of inducible atrial fibrillation compared to other groups, suggesting a strong connection between these PACs and the development of AF.
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Background: The unique tissue selectivity of pulsed field ablation (PFA) allows for minimizing collateral damage to the nerves/esophagus. However, the safety profile of epicardial PFA on coronary arteries (CAs) has not been well defined.

Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the effect of epicardial PFA directly on CAs in a swine model.

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Introduction: Malawi is rapidly closing the gap in achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets, with 90% of people living with HIV in Malawi aware of their status. As we approach epidemic control, interventions to improve coverage will become more costly. There is, therefore, an urgent need to identify innovative and low-cost strategies to maintain and increase testing coverage without diverting resources from other HIV services.

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