This document will focus on the elements of performing a comprehensive duplex ultrasound imaging protocol for evaluation of the carotid and vertebral arteries. Two-dimensional (2-D) imaging, Doppler and measurement techniques are presented. A review of plaque grading and classification, as it pertains to the comprehensive carotid duplex examination, are also presented.

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Aging is characterized by a coordinated functional decline across multiple organs. While cell-autonomous mechanisms contribute to local aging phenotypes, the systemic synchronicity of aging suggests a major role for cell non-autonomous drivers. Emerging evidence implicates the hypothalamus-a central regulator of neuroendocrine and homeostatic functions-as a potential source of circulating pro-geronic signals. A hallmark of brain aging is the accumulation of senescent cells, particularly in...

Clostridioides difficile infection is a global health concern, with increasing community-associated cases. Environmental sources may contribute to transmission. This study assessed hypervirulent C. difficile in wastewater and shellfish in southern Taiwan. From April to September 2020, water samples were collected from two domestic wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), one hospital WWTP, and shellfish from an aquafarm in Tainan City. C. difficile isolates underwent molecular identification, toxin...

CONCLUSION: Classroom food rewards are common, and perceived barriers (but not perceived threat or policy cues) were associated with food rewards among this sample of teachers. Reducing barriers to refraining from the use of food rewards may begin to reduce the practice of using classroom food rewards.