Red blood cell transfusion threshold in postsurgical pediatric intensive care patients: a randomized clinical trial.

Background: The optimal transfusion threshold after surgery in children is unknown. We analyzed the general surgery subgroup of the TRIPICU (Transfusion Requirements in Pediatric Intensive Care Units) study to determine the impact of a restrictive versus a liberal transfusion strategy on new or progressive multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Methods: The TRIPICU study, a prospective randomized controlled trial conducted in 17 centers, enrolled a total of 648 critically ill children with a hemoglobin equal to or below 9.

Chemical risks associated with consumption of shellfish harvested on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River's lower estuary.

Shellfish have the capacity to accumulate chemical contaminants found in their biotope and therefore present a potential risk for consumers. This study was conducted to assess the chemical risks associated with consumption of shellfish harvested on the north shore of the St. Lawrence River's lower estuary.