Outcomes of surgical valve replacements for radiation-induced valvulopathy.

Objective: Patients with cancer who receive radiation therapy to the thorax often develop radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD) decades later. Previous chest radiation is associated with elevated perioperative risk of complications and mortality after cardiac surgery. Whether the type of valve (mechanical vs bioprosthetic) used affects outcomes in patients with RIHD is unknown.

Exploring Bio-Based Monomers in Emulsion and Miniemulsion Polymerization.

Sustainability is a key priority in polymer synthesis, aiming to reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources by using greener components in the polymerization process. Emulsion polymerization stands out as an environmentally friendly method for producing polymers due to its utilization of water as a dispersant. The use of renewable, bio-based materials in emulsion polymerization formulations further enhances the process sustainability.

Evaluation of a hybrid model of a Physician Associate Studies programme: students, teachers, and examiner perspectives.

Background: To date, there is one university offering the Physician Associate (PA) Studies programme in Ireland. Responding to a demand for PAs outside of Dublin, a hybrid model was introduced, allowing students undertake the didactic phase of the programme online for synchronous instruction, attending campus twice a month for anatomy learning, clinical skills, and integration sessions.

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the hybrid model from the perspectives of students and their teachers, including the external examiner.

Predictors of Thyroglossal Duct Cyst Recurrence and Complications Following Sistrunk Procedure.

Objective: Recurrence is the primary complication of the Sistrunk procedure performed for the resection of thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDC). We aim to more confidently identify patients who may be predisposed to recurrence or other postoperative complications based on their clinical presentation and (or) perioperative course.

Methods: Our institution's electronic medical record was queried over a 23-year period (2000-2023) for patients with TGDC who underwent a Sistrunk procedure.

General practice antibiotic prescriptions attributable to respiratory syncytial virus by age and antibiotic class: an ecological analysis of the English population.

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may contribute to a substantial volume of antibiotic prescriptions in primary care. However, data on the type of antibiotics prescribed for such infections are only available for children <5 years in the UK. Understanding the contribution of RSV to antibiotic prescribing would facilitate predicting the impact of RSV preventative measures on antibiotic use and resistance.