West Virginia
Virginia
Appalachian Region
Orthodontics, Preventive
Encephalitis, California
La Crosse virus
Legal Guardians
Coal Mining
Caprylates
Osteopathic Medicine
Evaluation of an anesthesiology department newsletter. (1/150)
The West Virginia University Department of Anesthesiology has distributed a weekly newsletter to department members for several years. A recent survey and discussion among members found the newsletter to be useful and important in shaping the culture of the department and marketing it. A weekly format of three to five pages was judged best. News about anesthesiology, department policies, and practice management information were most valued. (+info)Mortalities of workers at the Nitro plant with exposure to 2-mercaptobenzothialzole. (2/150)
OBJECTIVES: An update of a study of workers exposed to 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) at a rubber chemicals plant in Nitro, West Virginia is reported. The earlier study found high rates of lung cancer, prostate cancer, and bladder cancer in these workers who also had potential exposure to 4-aminobiphenyl (PAB), a potent bladder carcinogen. METHODS: This cohort mortality study examines the mortalities of 1059 full time white male production workers employed at the plant from 1955 to 1977. A detailed exposure assessment was done on the 600 workers with exposure to MBT. Nine years of additional follow up to the previous study are added. RESULTS: It was found that MBT workers have expected rates of lung (standardised mortality ratio (SMR) = 1.0 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.7 to 1.5) and prostate (SMR = 0.9, 95% CI 0.2 to 2.3) cancer. There was an excess of bladder cancer among MBT workers who had definite exposure to PAB (SMR = 27.1, 95% CI 11.7 to 53.4), and MBT workers with potential exposure to PAB (SMR = 4.3, 95% CI 1.4 to 10.0). However, there were no deaths from bladder cancer among workers with no exposure to PAB (SMR = 0.0, 95% CI 0.0 to 24.7), although there were only 0.2 deaths expected. CONCLUSIONS: The potential confounding of exposure to an unknown portion of PAB in the MBT workers makes it impossible to evaluate risk of bladder cancer in this population at this time. However, exposure to MBT does not seem to increase the risk of most cancers including cancers of the lung and prostate. (+info)Relationship of preadmission variables and first- and second-year course performance to performance on the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners' COMLEX-USA Level 1 examination. (3/150)
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship of performance on the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA) Level 1 licensing examination to (1) academic performance during the first 2 years of the curriculum, and (2) preadmission grade point averages (GPAs) and Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores for one osteopathic medical school with the unique mission of providing osteopathic family physicians for West Virginia and rural Appalachia. Simple correlations were calculated for the 63 students at West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine who completed all requirements of the first 2 years of the curriculum in May 1998 and were first eligible for board exams in June 1998. These included 26 (41.3%) female students and 5 (7.9%) minority students. Students who had failed a year and/or a course but subsequently successfully completed the first 2 years of the curriculum in May 1998 were included in this study. Every student who qualified to take the June 1998 administration of COMLEX-USA Level 1 did so at that time. For the 55 academic or preadmissions variables of interest, correlation coefficients with COMLEX-USA Level 1 scores and significance levels were calculated using SPSS Base 9.0. The correlation of COMLEX-USA Level 1 performance with GPA for Phase I was 0.64; with GPA for Phase II, 0.67; and total GPA for the first 2 years, 0.70. Grades in most individual courses also correlated significantly with COMLEX-USA Level 1 performance. Given the special focus of this curriculum on the needs of the Appalachian region and use of clinical performance measures or participation measures in calculating academic GPAs, these correlations show a remarkable degree of agreement between these two sets of performance measures. Further research is needed to see if similar relationships exist for osteopathic medical schools with other missions and with other curriculum structures. Preadmissions GPAs and MCATs did not significantly relate to performance on COMLEX-USA Level 1. (+info)Strongyloides-infected patients at Charleston area medical center, West Virginia, 1997-1998. (4/150)
Twenty Strongyloides-infected patients were diagnosed at West Virginia's Charleston Area Medical Center in 1997 and 1998. We recommend that strongyloidiasis, which can be fatal, be a reportable disease in West Virginia. (+info)Consequences of delayed diagnosis of Rocky Mountain spotted fever in children--West Virginia, Michigan, Tennessee, and Oklahoma, May-July 2000. (5/150)
Patients with Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), a tickborne infection caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, respond quickly to tetracycline-class antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) when therapy is started within the first few days of illness; however, untreated RMSF may result in severe illness and death. Persons aged <10 years have the highest age-specific incidence of RMSF. This report summarizes the clinical course and outcome of RMSF in four children from four regions of the United States and underscores the need for clinicians throughout the United States to consider RMSF in children with rash and fever, particularly those with a history of tick bite or who present during April-September when approximately 90% of RMSF cases occur. (+info)Screening for Strongyloides infection among the institutionalized mentally disabled. (6/150)
BACKGROUND: Strongyloidiasis is an intestinal helminthic infection common among the mentally disabled population and can cause persistent occult infection before resulting in disseminated, possibly fatal disease. METHODS: Two cases of strongyloidiasis are described. The literature was searched using the key words "Strongyloides" and "mass screening." RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Strongyloidiasis is clinically important and well documented in the mentally disabled populations both in endemic and nonendemic regions of North America. It has a substantial latent phase during which screening can be conducted, and its treatment with thiabendazole is convenient, effective, and reasonably well tolerated. Although strongyloidiasis is usually incidentally detected by findings of eosinophilia during routine blood screening, peripheral eosinophilia occurs only in 50% to 80% of infected persons and is extremely nonspecific for Strongyloides infection. Given the high cost of critical care for a patient with disseminated disease, screening mentally disabled populations in institutional settings for strongyloidiasis by administering the Strongyloides stercoralis antibody ELISA appears justifiable, particularly if risk factors for hyperinfection syndrome are used to select a subpopulation to be screened. (+info)Prediction of student performance on the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination Level I based on admission data and course performance. (7/150)
To predict student performance on the Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA) Level 1 examination based on academic performance during the first 2 years, stepwise regression analysis of COMLEX-USA Level 1 performance with preadmission grade point averages, Medical College Admission Test scores, and academic performance was performed on the class of 2000 to develop three formulae that were then used to predict performance on COMLEX-USA Level 1 for the class of 2001. Models ranged in accuracy of predicting the pass/fail status from 95.2% (all available data) to 96.8% (first-year grades and admissions data). A predictive model for student performance on COMLEX-USA Level 1 can be developed and has a high degree of accuracy. The model with the most variables available to choose from predicts the most failures. (+info)Can an Internet-based system assist with administration and distance learning for third- and fourth-year rural clinical rotations? (8/150)
This article describes the experience of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine during the past 5 years in using Internet technology to communicate with osteopathic medical students on remote, community-based clinical rotations. Federal funding initially supported creation of a new Internet-based system to connect students on their rural family medicine rotations. Accomplishments during and after federal funding include development of systems for remote submission and student access to feedback about clinical sites; on-line access to rotation objectives, policies, housing information, maps, and affiliated internship opportunities; access to medical journals and texts; secured access to rotation grades and rotation schedules; on-line reading lists for family medicine and pediatrics rotations; and Internet-based test administration. Remaining challenges include identification or development of interactive learning materials; development of test banks; flawless administration of Web-based examinations; and finding the right balance between patient care-based learning and didactics. (+info)I'm sorry for any confusion, but "West Virginia" is a state located in the Eastern United States, and it is not a medical term or condition. If you have any questions about medical definitions or topics, I would be happy to try to help answer them!
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Virginia" is not a medical term or condition. It is a geographical location, specifically the name of a state in the United States. If you have any medical questions or terms you would like defined, I'd be happy to help!
The Appalachian Region is a geographic and cultural region in the eastern United States that stretches from southern New York to northern Mississippi. It is defined by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) as including 420 counties across 13 states: Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. The ARC defines the region based on its unique economic and social challenges, as well as its distinct cultural heritage.
The Appalachian Region is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes the Appalachian Mountains, valleys, plateaus, and coastal plains. It has a rich history of coal mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, but has also faced significant economic challenges in recent decades due to declines in these industries. The region has higher poverty rates, lower educational attainment levels, and poorer health outcomes compared to the national average.
The medical definition of the Appalachian Region may refer to the unique health challenges that are prevalent in this area. These can include higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses due to factors such as poverty, lack of access to healthcare, and environmental exposures related to coal mining and other industries. The region also has a higher rate of opioid addiction and overdose deaths compared to the national average. Public health initiatives and interventions in the Appalachian Region often focus on addressing these specific health disparities and improving overall health outcomes for the population.
Preventive Orthodontics refers to the branch of dentistry that involves the use of appliances and treatments to prevent the development or worsening of malocclusion (improper bite) and dental crowding. The goal is to maintain proper alignment of teeth and jaws, and to promote good oral health by preventing issues like tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw joint problems that can result from poorly aligned teeth.
Preventive orthodontic treatments may include:
1. Interceptive Orthodontics: This involves early intervention in children to guide the growth and development of the jaws and teeth, and to create space for incoming permanent teeth. Examples include palatal expanders, space maintainers, and habit-breaking appliances.
2. Dental Hygiene Education: Preventive orthodontists may provide education on proper brushing, flossing, and oral hygiene techniques to prevent dental problems during and after orthodontic treatment.
3. Protective Mouthguards: Custom-made mouthguards can be used to protect teeth from injury during sports or other activities that pose a risk of trauma.
4. Sealants and Fluoride Treatments: These treatments can help prevent tooth decay by strengthening the enamel and providing a barrier against bacteria and plaque.
5. Regular Dental Checkups: Preventive orthodontists may recommend regular dental checkups to monitor oral health, identify potential problems early, and provide timely treatment.
Overall, preventive orthodontics focuses on maintaining good oral health and preventing the need for extensive or invasive treatments in the future.
"California encephalitis" is not a medical term used to describe a specific type of encephalitis. Instead, it refers to a group of related viral infections that are common in California and other western states. These viruses are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes.
The most common cause of California encephalitis is the California serogroup of viruses, which includes the La Crosse virus, Jamestown Canyon virus, and Snowshoe Hare virus. These viruses can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) and can lead to symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, confusion, seizures, and coma.
California encephalitis is typically a mild illness, but in some cases, it can be severe or even life-threatening. Treatment usually involves supportive care, such as fluids and medication to manage symptoms. There is no specific antiviral treatment for California encephalitis. Prevention measures include avoiding mosquito bites, using insect repellent, and eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed.
La Crosse virus (LACV) is an orthobunyavirus that belongs to the California serogroup and is the most common cause of pediatric arboviral encephalitis in the United States. It is named after La Crosse, Wisconsin, where it was first identified in 1963.
LACV is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected eastern treehole mosquitoes (Aedes triseriatus), which serve as the primary vector and amplifying host for the virus. The virus can also be found in other mosquito species, such as Aedes albopictus and Aedes japonicus.
The transmission cycle of LACV involves mosquitoes feeding on infected small mammals, particularly chipmunks and squirrels, which serve as the natural reservoirs for the virus. The virus then replicates in the salivary glands of the mosquito, making it possible to transmit the virus through their bite.
LACV infection can cause a range of symptoms, from mild flu-like illness to severe neurological complications such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Most cases occur in children under the age of 16, with peak transmission during summer months.
Preventive measures for LACV include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, eliminating standing water around homes to reduce mosquito breeding sites, and staying indoors during peak mosquito activity hours (dawn and dusk). There is currently no specific antiviral treatment available for LACV infection, and management typically involves supportive care to address symptoms.
A legal guardian is an individual who has been appointed by a court to make decisions on behalf of a minor child or an adult who is incapacitated and unable to make decisions for themselves. The legal guardian is responsible for ensuring the well-being and safety of the person in their care, and may be responsible for making decisions related to their education, medical treatment, financial affairs, and living arrangements.
In the context of medical care, a legal guardian may be asked to make important decisions about a patient's treatment, such as whether to consent to surgery or other medical procedures. They may also be responsible for ensuring that the patient receives appropriate medical care and follows through with recommended treatments.
It is important to note that the specific powers and responsibilities of a legal guardian can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the individual circumstances of the case. In general, however, a legal guardian is expected to act in the best interests of the person they are responsible for caring for.
Coal mining is the process of extracting coal from the ground. Coal is a fossil fuel that is formed from the accumulation and decomposition of plants over millions of years. It is primarily used as a source of energy for electricity generation, as well as for heating and industrial processes.
There are two main types of coal mining: surface mining and underground mining. Surface mining involves removing the soil and rock above the coal seam to access the coal, while underground mining involves sinking shafts and tunnels into the earth to reach the coal. Both methods have their own set of benefits and challenges, and the choice of which method to use depends on various factors such as the depth and location of the coal seam, the geology of the area, and environmental concerns.
Coal mining can be a dangerous occupation, with risks including accidents, explosions, and exposure to harmful dust and gases. As a result, it is essential that coal miners receive proper training and equipment to minimize these risks and ensure their safety. Additionally, coal mining has significant environmental impacts, including deforestation, habitat destruction, and water pollution, which must be carefully managed to minimize harm.
Caprylates are the salts or esters of capric acid, a saturated fatty acid with a chain length of 8 carbon atoms. In medical and biological contexts, caprylate refers to the anion (negatively charged ion) form of capric acid, which has the chemical formula C8H17O2-. Caprylates are used in various applications, including as food additives, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.
Some examples of caprylate compounds include:
* Sodium caprylate (sodium octanoate): a sodium salt commonly used as a preservative and flavor enhancer in foods.
* Calcium caprylate (calcium octanoate): a calcium salt used as an emulsifier in food products and as a stabilizer in cosmetics.
* Caprylic acid/caprylate triglycerides: esters of glycerin with caprylic acid, used as emollients and solvents in skin care products and pharmaceuticals.
Caprylates have antimicrobial properties against certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making them useful in various medical applications. For instance, sodium caprylate is sometimes used as an antifungal agent to treat conditions like candidiasis (yeast infections). However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of using caprylates for medicinal purposes.
Osteopathic medicine is a system of medical care that focuses on the unity of the mind, body, and spirit in the diagnosis and treatment of illness. It was founded in the United States in 1874 by Andrew Taylor Still, MD, who developed a philosophy of medicine based on principles of preventive medicine, holistic patient care, and the interrelationship of all body systems.
Osteopathic physicians (DOs), also known as osteopaths, are trained to diagnose and treat medical conditions using a variety of treatment modalities, including manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system. They receive the same basic medical education as MDs, but also complete additional training in osteopathic principles and practices.
Osteopathic medicine emphasizes the importance of preventive care, lifestyle modifications, and patient education in maintaining health and preventing illness. DOs are trained to use their hands to diagnose and treat structural and functional problems in the body, with a focus on the musculoskeletal system. They believe that the body has an inherent ability to heal itself, and that manipulation of the bones, muscles, and other tissues can help promote this natural healing process.
DOs are licensed to practice medicine and surgery in all 50 states and are recognized as fully qualified physicians. They may choose to specialize in any area of medicine, including family practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, psychiatry, and neurology, among others.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Fluorocarbons" are not typically associated with medical definitions. Fluorocarbons are chemical compounds that contain carbon atoms bonded to fluorine atoms. They are often used in a variety of applications including refrigerants, fire extinguishing agents, and in the manufacturing of Teflon and other non-stick coatings.
If you have any medical terms or concepts you'd like me to define or explain, please let me know!