WSUC-90.5 The Dragon is the student radio station at SUNY Cortland. The document discusses the station's history and role, noting that while television and the internet created competition, radio has re-emerged as a legitimate medium that allows listeners to access broadcasts around the world. It also lists the most common genres played in 2011 and provides a link to join the station.
This document discusses system tools. Tools are software programs that help manage, maintain, and optimize computer systems. They are used to perform tasks like monitoring system resources, installing software updates, scanning for malware, backing up files, and more.
El documento presenta información sobre los epitelios. Explica que los epitelios son tejidos formados por una o más capas de células unidas que recubren las superficies del cuerpo y sus cavidades internas. Divide los epitelios en queratinizados y no queratinizados dependiendo de si producen o no queratina. Además, clasifica los epitelios de las vísceras huecas en planos, cuboidales, columnares, pseudoestratificados y estratificados.
El documento proporciona una introducción a las máquinas de corriente continua (DC), incluyendo sus objetivos, partes y funcionamiento. Explica que las máquinas DC convierten energía eléctrica en mecánica y constan de un estator, rotor, colector y escobillas. También describe cómo se generan las fuerzas electromotrices y electromagnéticas que permiten que funcionen los motores y generadores DC.
The document summarizes the results of a questionnaire about ideas for a new music magazine. Key findings include:
- The majority of respondents were female aged 16-18.
- 89% expressed interest in a music magazine focused on pop music.
- Most would pay £2.50-£3.00 for the magazine.
- Famous solo artists and singers were preferred for the cover.
- Interviews and information on upcoming concerts and tours were most desired as features.
Accelerate Your Migration to "Application-Centric" Storage-as-a-Service from ...VMware
This document summarizes a presentation by VMware and IndonesianCloud about accelerating migration to storage-as-a-service using VMware vCloud and Virtual SAN. It discusses IndonesianCloud's past issues with a traditional storage platform and how Virtual SAN addressed their needs for cost efficiency, operational simplicity, reliability, and scalability. Specifically, Virtual SAN allowed them to match competitors' storage prices, simplify operations through policy-based management and per-VM services, improve reliability through a scale-out design that accommodates failures, and easily scale capacity and performance by adding servers. IndonesianCloud deployed a Virtual SAN platform using SuperMicro servers with SSDs and HDDs to provide storage as a service.
Dialysis...Only 28% in Georgia Referred for TransplantYael Waknine
Only 28% of patients with end-stage renal disease in Georgia, the state with the lowest kidney transplant rate, are referred for transplant evaluation within a year of starting dialysis. Referral rates vary substantially between dialysis facilities in Georgia, ranging from 0% to 75%. Factors associated with lower referral rates include treating patients from high-poverty neighborhoods, higher patient-to-social worker ratios, and nonprofit facility status. Standardized guidelines may be needed for patient education on treatment options including transplant at the start of dialysis.
WSUC-90.5 The Dragon is the student radio station at SUNY Cortland. The document discusses the station's history and role, noting that while television and the internet created competition, radio has re-emerged as a legitimate medium that allows listeners to access broadcasts around the world. It also lists the most common genres played in 2011 and provides a link to join the station.
This document discusses system tools. Tools are software programs that help manage, maintain, and optimize computer systems. They are used to perform tasks like monitoring system resources, installing software updates, scanning for malware, backing up files, and more.
El documento presenta información sobre los epitelios. Explica que los epitelios son tejidos formados por una o más capas de células unidas que recubren las superficies del cuerpo y sus cavidades internas. Divide los epitelios en queratinizados y no queratinizados dependiendo de si producen o no queratina. Además, clasifica los epitelios de las vísceras huecas en planos, cuboidales, columnares, pseudoestratificados y estratificados.
El documento proporciona una introducción a las máquinas de corriente continua (DC), incluyendo sus objetivos, partes y funcionamiento. Explica que las máquinas DC convierten energía eléctrica en mecánica y constan de un estator, rotor, colector y escobillas. También describe cómo se generan las fuerzas electromotrices y electromagnéticas que permiten que funcionen los motores y generadores DC.
The document summarizes the results of a questionnaire about ideas for a new music magazine. Key findings include:
- The majority of respondents were female aged 16-18.
- 89% expressed interest in a music magazine focused on pop music.
- Most would pay £2.50-£3.00 for the magazine.
- Famous solo artists and singers were preferred for the cover.
- Interviews and information on upcoming concerts and tours were most desired as features.
Accelerate Your Migration to "Application-Centric" Storage-as-a-Service from ...VMware
This document summarizes a presentation by VMware and IndonesianCloud about accelerating migration to storage-as-a-service using VMware vCloud and Virtual SAN. It discusses IndonesianCloud's past issues with a traditional storage platform and how Virtual SAN addressed their needs for cost efficiency, operational simplicity, reliability, and scalability. Specifically, Virtual SAN allowed them to match competitors' storage prices, simplify operations through policy-based management and per-VM services, improve reliability through a scale-out design that accommodates failures, and easily scale capacity and performance by adding servers. IndonesianCloud deployed a Virtual SAN platform using SuperMicro servers with SSDs and HDDs to provide storage as a service.
Dialysis...Only 28% in Georgia Referred for TransplantYael Waknine
Only 28% of patients with end-stage renal disease in Georgia, the state with the lowest kidney transplant rate, are referred for transplant evaluation within a year of starting dialysis. Referral rates vary substantially between dialysis facilities in Georgia, ranging from 0% to 75%. Factors associated with lower referral rates include treating patients from high-poverty neighborhoods, higher patient-to-social worker ratios, and nonprofit facility status. Standardized guidelines may be needed for patient education on treatment options including transplant at the start of dialysis.
Tool Could Limit Invasive Colorectal Cancer ScreeningYael Waknine
Scientists have developed a five-variable index to identify average-risk individuals for advanced colorectal neoplasia who could skip colonoscopy screening. A study of over 4,000 patients found that those at very low or low risk by the index had advanced neoplasia rates of 1.65-4.88%, compared to 22.3-24.9% for high risk patients. However, an editorialist cautions against using the tool for choosing screening tests until stronger evidence is available, as the study lacked sufficient sensitivity and alternative tests like sigmoidoscopy are not widely used in the U.S. The index may be useful for follow-up decisions after a negative screening.
This study found that beta-lactams are superior to vancomycin for definitive but not empiric therapy of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bloodstream infections. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 patients and found that while empiric use of beta-lactams or vancomycin made no difference in mortality, definitive therapy with a beta-lactam reduced the risk of death within 30 days by 35% compared to vancomycin. Cefazolin or antistaphylococcal penicillins provided even greater benefits for definitive therapy.
Universal access to virtual colonoscopy may be on the horizonYael Waknine
Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) has been endorsed by several medical organizations since 2008 as a screening method for colorectal cancer. However, it is not covered by Medicare for reimbursement due to political opposition from organizations supporting traditional colonoscopy and concerns about risks. Radiologists argue that many of the original concerns about virtual colonoscopy have been addressed by peer-reviewed research showing it is a safe and cost-effective screening option. They call for public advocacy to change the test's rating by the US Preventive Services Task Force in order to gain Medicare coverage, which would significantly boost low colorectal cancer screening rates in the US.
Robots and surgeons equally safe for prostatectomyYael Waknine
A study of over 5,000 Medicare patients found that robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP) have comparable rates of complications within 30 and 90 days. While RARP was linked to fewer blood transfusions and slightly shorter hospital stays, it did not translate to decreased healthcare expenditures. Experts cautioned that the results may be impacted by selection bias and noted that surgical experience is important, recommending that patients choose surgeons with expertise in their preferred technique. The use of RARP increased significantly during the study period and some believe it will expand the eligible age range and feasibility of operating on more advanced cases over time.
Raltegravir not better than nrt is for refractory HIVYael Waknine
Raltegravir offers no benefits over nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) when used in combination with a protease inhibitor (PI) as second-line HIV therapy. A study of over 1,200 patients found that ritonavir-boosted PI plus 2 NRTIs was as effective at controlling HIV as PI plus raltegravir at 96 weeks. Using a PI alone after initial raltegravir induction therapy was less effective. The findings suggest that NRTIs retain sufficient activity for use in second-line regimens when combined with a boosted PI.
Millions of children losing out on preventive careYael Waknine
A CDC report found that millions of children and teenagers are not receiving recommended preventive health services. Data collected before the ACA showed low rates of immunizations, dental care, developmental screenings, and counseling for issues like tobacco use and reproductive health. Only 21.1% of young children received comprehensive developmental screening, and many children lacked basic services like vision and hearing tests. The report indicates certain groups face even lower access, and calls for increased preventive care to promote long-term health.
MERS case control study sheds light on clinical predictorsYael Waknine
A case-control study of 17 patients with Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and 82 patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) found several differences between the groups. Patients with MERS were more likely to have interstitial infiltrates on chest x-rays, a normal white blood cell count, and underlying conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. Outcomes were generally worse for MERS patients, with a high death rate. The findings may help identify clinical predictors that could help determine if a patient with CAP has MERS, but more research is still needed.
Chemotherapy 'vastly underutilized' in bladder cancerYael Waknine
A major weapon in the armamentarium against bladder cancer — neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) — is rarely used in clinical practice, according to a large population study published online April 14 in Cancer.
Researchers analyzed 2944 patient records from the Ontario Cancer Registry, and found that a mere 4% of patients, on average, received standard-of-care NACT prior to cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer from 1994 to 2008.
Surprisingly, the popularity of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) rose over the same period; it was 16% from 1994 to 1998, 18% from 1999 to 2003, and 22% from 2004 to 2008.
Moreover, the controversial ACT was linked to benefits deemed "probably on the same order of magnitude" as NACT (all-cause mortality hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62 - 0.81; cancer-related HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.64 - 0.84), after relevant patient- and disease-related characteristics were controlled for.
Cleaner Air Improves Lung Development in ChildrenYael Waknine
Long-term improvements in air quality are associated with better lung development in children. Researchers studied over 2000 children in Southern California between 1994 and 2011, as air pollution decreased due to new emissions policies. Children in later cohorts had greater lung function growth, with a 4-year increase in lung volume of over 90 mL for each 14 ppb decrease in nitrogen dioxide. Reducing particulate matter was also linked to improved lung development. The results suggest that cleaner air leads to substantial public health benefits for children.
Histololgy of Female Reproductive System.pptxAyeshaZaid1
Dive into an in-depth exploration of the histological structure of female reproductive system with this comprehensive lecture. Presented by Dr. Ayesha Irfan, Assistant Professor of Anatomy, this presentation covers the Gross anatomy and functional histology of the female reproductive organs. Ideal for students, educators, and anyone interested in medical science, this lecture provides clear explanations, detailed diagrams, and valuable insights into female reproductive system. Enhance your knowledge and understanding of this essential aspect of human biology.
Travel vaccination in Manchester offers comprehensive immunization services for individuals planning international trips. Expert healthcare providers administer vaccines tailored to your destination, ensuring you stay protected against various diseases. Conveniently located clinics and flexible appointment options make it easy to get the necessary shots before your journey. Stay healthy and travel with confidence by getting vaccinated in Manchester. Visit us: www.nxhealthcare.co.uk
Our backs are like superheroes, holding us up and helping us move around. But sometimes, even superheroes can get hurt. That’s where slip discs come in.
Integrating Ayurveda into Parkinson’s Management: A Holistic ApproachAyurveda ForAll
Explore the benefits of combining Ayurveda with conventional Parkinson's treatments. Learn how a holistic approach can manage symptoms, enhance well-being, and balance body energies. Discover the steps to safely integrate Ayurvedic practices into your Parkinson’s care plan, including expert guidance on diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications.
Adhd Medication Shortage Uk - trinexpharmacy.comreignlana06
The UK is currently facing a Adhd Medication Shortage Uk, which has left many patients and their families grappling with uncertainty and frustration. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a chronic condition that requires consistent medication to manage effectively. This shortage has highlighted the critical role these medications play in the daily lives of those affected by ADHD. Contact : +1 (747) 209 – 3649 E-mail : sales@trinexpharmacy.com
8 Surprising Reasons To Meditate 40 Minutes A Day That Can Change Your Life.pptxHolistified Wellness
We’re talking about Vedic Meditation, a form of meditation that has been around for at least 5,000 years. Back then, the people who lived in the Indus Valley, now known as India and Pakistan, practised meditation as a fundamental part of daily life. This knowledge that has given us yoga and Ayurveda, was known as Veda, hence the name Vedic. And though there are some written records, the practice has been passed down verbally from generation to generation.
Tool Could Limit Invasive Colorectal Cancer ScreeningYael Waknine
Scientists have developed a five-variable index to identify average-risk individuals for advanced colorectal neoplasia who could skip colonoscopy screening. A study of over 4,000 patients found that those at very low or low risk by the index had advanced neoplasia rates of 1.65-4.88%, compared to 22.3-24.9% for high risk patients. However, an editorialist cautions against using the tool for choosing screening tests until stronger evidence is available, as the study lacked sufficient sensitivity and alternative tests like sigmoidoscopy are not widely used in the U.S. The index may be useful for follow-up decisions after a negative screening.
This study found that beta-lactams are superior to vancomycin for definitive but not empiric therapy of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) bloodstream infections. Researchers analyzed data from over 7,000 patients and found that while empiric use of beta-lactams or vancomycin made no difference in mortality, definitive therapy with a beta-lactam reduced the risk of death within 30 days by 35% compared to vancomycin. Cefazolin or antistaphylococcal penicillins provided even greater benefits for definitive therapy.
Universal access to virtual colonoscopy may be on the horizonYael Waknine
Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography) has been endorsed by several medical organizations since 2008 as a screening method for colorectal cancer. However, it is not covered by Medicare for reimbursement due to political opposition from organizations supporting traditional colonoscopy and concerns about risks. Radiologists argue that many of the original concerns about virtual colonoscopy have been addressed by peer-reviewed research showing it is a safe and cost-effective screening option. They call for public advocacy to change the test's rating by the US Preventive Services Task Force in order to gain Medicare coverage, which would significantly boost low colorectal cancer screening rates in the US.
Robots and surgeons equally safe for prostatectomyYael Waknine
A study of over 5,000 Medicare patients found that robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and open radical prostatectomy (ORP) have comparable rates of complications within 30 and 90 days. While RARP was linked to fewer blood transfusions and slightly shorter hospital stays, it did not translate to decreased healthcare expenditures. Experts cautioned that the results may be impacted by selection bias and noted that surgical experience is important, recommending that patients choose surgeons with expertise in their preferred technique. The use of RARP increased significantly during the study period and some believe it will expand the eligible age range and feasibility of operating on more advanced cases over time.
Raltegravir not better than nrt is for refractory HIVYael Waknine
Raltegravir offers no benefits over nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) when used in combination with a protease inhibitor (PI) as second-line HIV therapy. A study of over 1,200 patients found that ritonavir-boosted PI plus 2 NRTIs was as effective at controlling HIV as PI plus raltegravir at 96 weeks. Using a PI alone after initial raltegravir induction therapy was less effective. The findings suggest that NRTIs retain sufficient activity for use in second-line regimens when combined with a boosted PI.
Millions of children losing out on preventive careYael Waknine
A CDC report found that millions of children and teenagers are not receiving recommended preventive health services. Data collected before the ACA showed low rates of immunizations, dental care, developmental screenings, and counseling for issues like tobacco use and reproductive health. Only 21.1% of young children received comprehensive developmental screening, and many children lacked basic services like vision and hearing tests. The report indicates certain groups face even lower access, and calls for increased preventive care to promote long-term health.
MERS case control study sheds light on clinical predictorsYael Waknine
A case-control study of 17 patients with Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and 82 patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) found several differences between the groups. Patients with MERS were more likely to have interstitial infiltrates on chest x-rays, a normal white blood cell count, and underlying conditions like diabetes or kidney disease. Outcomes were generally worse for MERS patients, with a high death rate. The findings may help identify clinical predictors that could help determine if a patient with CAP has MERS, but more research is still needed.
Chemotherapy 'vastly underutilized' in bladder cancerYael Waknine
A major weapon in the armamentarium against bladder cancer — neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) — is rarely used in clinical practice, according to a large population study published online April 14 in Cancer.
Researchers analyzed 2944 patient records from the Ontario Cancer Registry, and found that a mere 4% of patients, on average, received standard-of-care NACT prior to cystectomy for muscle-invasive bladder cancer from 1994 to 2008.
Surprisingly, the popularity of adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) rose over the same period; it was 16% from 1994 to 1998, 18% from 1999 to 2003, and 22% from 2004 to 2008.
Moreover, the controversial ACT was linked to benefits deemed "probably on the same order of magnitude" as NACT (all-cause mortality hazard ratio [HR], 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.62 - 0.81; cancer-related HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.64 - 0.84), after relevant patient- and disease-related characteristics were controlled for.
Cleaner Air Improves Lung Development in ChildrenYael Waknine
Long-term improvements in air quality are associated with better lung development in children. Researchers studied over 2000 children in Southern California between 1994 and 2011, as air pollution decreased due to new emissions policies. Children in later cohorts had greater lung function growth, with a 4-year increase in lung volume of over 90 mL for each 14 ppb decrease in nitrogen dioxide. Reducing particulate matter was also linked to improved lung development. The results suggest that cleaner air leads to substantial public health benefits for children.
Histololgy of Female Reproductive System.pptxAyeshaZaid1
Dive into an in-depth exploration of the histological structure of female reproductive system with this comprehensive lecture. Presented by Dr. Ayesha Irfan, Assistant Professor of Anatomy, this presentation covers the Gross anatomy and functional histology of the female reproductive organs. Ideal for students, educators, and anyone interested in medical science, this lecture provides clear explanations, detailed diagrams, and valuable insights into female reproductive system. Enhance your knowledge and understanding of this essential aspect of human biology.
Travel vaccination in Manchester offers comprehensive immunization services for individuals planning international trips. Expert healthcare providers administer vaccines tailored to your destination, ensuring you stay protected against various diseases. Conveniently located clinics and flexible appointment options make it easy to get the necessary shots before your journey. Stay healthy and travel with confidence by getting vaccinated in Manchester. Visit us: www.nxhealthcare.co.uk
Our backs are like superheroes, holding us up and helping us move around. But sometimes, even superheroes can get hurt. That’s where slip discs come in.
Integrating Ayurveda into Parkinson’s Management: A Holistic ApproachAyurveda ForAll
Explore the benefits of combining Ayurveda with conventional Parkinson's treatments. Learn how a holistic approach can manage symptoms, enhance well-being, and balance body energies. Discover the steps to safely integrate Ayurvedic practices into your Parkinson’s care plan, including expert guidance on diet, herbal remedies, and lifestyle modifications.
Adhd Medication Shortage Uk - trinexpharmacy.comreignlana06
The UK is currently facing a Adhd Medication Shortage Uk, which has left many patients and their families grappling with uncertainty and frustration. ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a chronic condition that requires consistent medication to manage effectively. This shortage has highlighted the critical role these medications play in the daily lives of those affected by ADHD. Contact : +1 (747) 209 – 3649 E-mail : sales@trinexpharmacy.com
8 Surprising Reasons To Meditate 40 Minutes A Day That Can Change Your Life.pptxHolistified Wellness
We’re talking about Vedic Meditation, a form of meditation that has been around for at least 5,000 years. Back then, the people who lived in the Indus Valley, now known as India and Pakistan, practised meditation as a fundamental part of daily life. This knowledge that has given us yoga and Ayurveda, was known as Veda, hence the name Vedic. And though there are some written records, the practice has been passed down verbally from generation to generation.
Hiranandani Hospital in Powai, Mumbai, is a premier healthcare institution that has been serving the community with exceptional medical care since its establishment. As a part of the renowned Hiranandani Group, the hospital is committed to delivering world-class healthcare services across a wide range of specialties, including kidney transplantation. With its state-of-the-art facilities, advanced medical technology, and a team of highly skilled healthcare professionals, Hiranandani Hospital has earned a reputation as a trusted name in the healthcare industry. The hospital's patient-centric approach, coupled with its focus on innovation and excellence, ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care in a compassionate and supportive environment.
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One health condition that is becoming more common day by day is diabetes.
According to research conducted by the National Family Health Survey of India, diabetic cases show a projection which might increase to 10.4% by 2030.
Does Over-Masturbation Contribute to Chronic Prostatitis.pptxwalterHu5
In some case, your chronic prostatitis may be related to over-masturbation. Generally, natural medicine Diuretic and Anti-inflammatory Pill can help mee get a cure.
Local Advanced Lung Cancer: Artificial Intelligence, Synergetics, Complex Sys...Oleg Kshivets
Overall life span (LS) was 1671.7±1721.6 days and cumulative 5YS reached 62.4%, 10 years – 50.4%, 20 years – 44.6%. 94 LCP lived more than 5 years without cancer (LS=2958.6±1723.6 days), 22 – more than 10 years (LS=5571±1841.8 days). 67 LCP died because of LC (LS=471.9±344 days). AT significantly improved 5YS (68% vs. 53.7%) (P=0.028 by log-rank test). Cox modeling displayed that 5YS of LCP significantly depended on: N0-N12, T3-4, blood cell circuit, cell ratio factors (ratio between cancer cells-CC and blood cells subpopulations), LC cell dynamics, recalcification time, heparin tolerance, prothrombin index, protein, AT, procedure type (P=0.000-0.031). Neural networks, genetic algorithm selection and bootstrap simulation revealed relationships between 5YS and N0-12 (rank=1), thrombocytes/CC (rank=2), segmented neutrophils/CC (3), eosinophils/CC (4), erythrocytes/CC (5), healthy cells/CC (6), lymphocytes/CC (7), stick neutrophils/CC (8), leucocytes/CC (9), monocytes/CC (10). Correct prediction of 5YS was 100% by neural networks computing (error=0.000; area under ROC curve=1.0).
1. file:///C|/Users/Yael/Desktop/2014%20stories/RA%20Increases%20Risk%20for%20Preterm%20Birth.html[11/19/2014 9:46:20 AM]
www.medscape.com
November 19, 2014
Mothers with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and those with preclinical disease are more likely to give birth prematurely and to infants who
weigh slightly less than their nonexposed counterparts, according to a large Danish population study published online November 13
in Arthritis & Rheumatology.
Although prior studies have examined the effect of maternal rheumatic disease in pregnancy, none have focused specifically on
RA, and few have included indicators of fetal growth measured at birth.
To correct this deficit, Ane Rom, MPH, from Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark, and colleagues analyzed national registry
data for 1,917,723 singletons born between 1977 and 2008, 2101 of whom had been exposed to maternal RA and 11,455 to
preclinical aspects of the disease.
Results showed that exposure to maternal RA and preclinical RA increased the risk for preterm birth by factors of 1.48 (95%
confidence interval [CI], 1.20 - 1.84) and 1.32 (95% CI, 1.07 - 1.64), respectively. The model was adjusted for maternal age,
education, parity, birth year, and paternal RA, which was not found to be a risk factor (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.07 - 1.64).
"Obstetricians should be aware of the increased risk of preterm birth in women with RA and among those with preclinical signs of
the disease," Dr Rom emphasized in a journal news release.
The researchers found slight reductions in mean birth weight (RA: −87.04 g [95% CI, −111.23 to −62.84]; preclinical RA: −46.65 g
[95% CI, −57.11 to −36.19]) and placental weight (−13.45 g [95% CI, −21.46 to −5.43]; preclinical RA: −4.61 [95% CI, −12.23 to
3.01]).
“[F]or all indicators of fetal growth gestational age seems to explain a great part of the effect of RA. However, differences in birth
weight, birth length and weight of placenta remained statistically significant after adjustment for gestational age suggesting that an
effect of RA induced modulation persists,” the authors write.
Other indicators of fetal growth were not affected by RA and preclinical RA, including birth length (mean Δ, −0.38 and −0.22 cm),
head circumference (mean Δ, −0.13 and −0.12 cm), and abdominal circumference (mean Δ, −0.20 and −0.17 cm).
Commenting on potential mechanisms behind the findings, the authors hypothesize that "maternal RA may affect fetal growth either
through fetal programming related to the effect RA may have on the intrauterine environment, through genetic factors, or due to
medications taken through pregnancy."
However, they also note that reductions in fetal size may be attributed in part to reduced gestational time and that the lack of effect
observed for paternal RA would indicate against genetics as a main factor. Also, the similarity in outcomes for mothers with RA
(presumably taking medication during pregnancy) and those with preclinical disease (RA not yet diagnosed) argues against a large
negative therapeutic effect.
Moreover, it is possible that certain treatments for RA may be beneficial in terms of fetal outcome.
"Experts on pregnancy in RA such as Dr Eliza Chakravarty and Dr Megan Clowse have speculated that treating women with
disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs to control the RA during pregnancy might lower the incidence of low birth weight babies,"
Brian Kaye, MD, told Medscape Medical News, noting that rheumatologists have traditionally taken women off medication during
pregnancy because of concerns regarding potential fetal effects.
"To my knowledge, there is no study looking at pregnancy outcomes in women on disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs vs not on
them while pregnant to test this hypothesis," Dr Kaye added.
Dr Kaye is a clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco; adjunct professor at Touro University
California; and a practicing rheumatologist at Sutter East Bay Medical Foundation in Berkeley and Orinda, California.
RA Increases Risk for Preterm Birth
Yael Waknine