Comparison of the STANDARD M10 . , Xpert . , and BD MAX Cdiff assays as confirmatory tests in a two-step algorithm for diagnosing infection.

Current guidelines recommend a two-step algorithm rather than relying solely on a single test for diagnosing infection. This algorithm starts with enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for detecting glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and toxins A/B, followed by nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) for GDH-positive but toxin-negative cases. This study compared the performance of three commercial NAATs: the STANDARD M10 , Xpert , and BD MAX Cdiff assays, utilized as confirmatory testing of the two-step algorithm.

Anatomic and non-anatomic substrates in infants with two ventricles undergoing aortic arch repair.

Objectives: We sought to examine the relative importance of surgical lesion complexity versus the presence of genetic/syndromic/extracardiac anomalies (GSAs) in determining survival, morbidity or need for reinterventions following repair for aortic arch hypoplasia.

Methods: A single-centre, retrospective cohort study of infants undergoing biventricular aortic arch repair sternotomy from 2010 to 2021 was conducted. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier methods, with additional Bayesian survival modelling for subgroups.

Navigating shared decision-making after the Life-Sustaining Treatment Decision Act: a qualitative study of in-depth interviews with terminal cancer patients, families, and healthcare professionals.

Purpose: End-of-life decision-making, particularly relating to withholding life-sustaining treatment (LST), is a complex and emotionally charged process involving healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers.

Methods: This qualitative study explored the decision-making process in South Korea, where cultural norms and ethical considerations influence the dynamics of shared decision-making (SDM). In-depth interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers using a grounded theory approach to elucidate the themes and processes underlying SDM for LST.

Nicotine and cannabis routes of administration and dual use among U.S. young adults who identify as Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and non-Hispanic White.

Background: Use of cannabis and nicotine is at record levels among young adults, and health consequences vary by route of administration. However, there is a paucity of research characterizing use of both substances, especially among individuals of racial/ethnic minoritized identities.

Method: Participants (N = 1,032; age 18-25 years) completed a cross-sectional survey administered through an online panel in 2021 in eight U.