Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Intranasal Corticosteroids on Asthma Control and Quality of Life in Allergic Rhinitis with Mild Asthma

Background. The mechanisms through which rhinitis affects asthma have not been completely elucidated. We explored whether the effect of nasal treatment on asthma control and respiratory-related quality of life (HRQoL) is mediated by inflammatory changes of the upper and lower airways. Methods. Allergic rhinitics with mild asthma were randomized to a 14-day treatment period with either nasal budesonide 100 μg, 1 puff per nostril twice a day, or placebo. Clinical, functional, and biological evaluations were performed before and after treatment. Results. Twenty subjects (M/F: 10/10; age: 31 ± 15 years; mean ± SD) were enrolled, and a total of 17 individuals completely participated in the study. Lung function was within the normal range. The total asthma control test (ACT) score was 20 ± 5.3 and the RHINASTHMA Global Summary (GS) was 44 ± 15. The percentage proportion of eosinophils in nasal lavage was 9.9% and significantly correlated with spirometric parameters reflecting peripheral airway function (for FEF50: r = 0.48, p = .03; for FEF25: r = 0.47, p = .03). The pH of the exhaled breath condensate (EBC) was 7.33 ± 0.4. After nasal treatment, the percentage proportion of eosinophils fell significantly (p = .002), and changes in percentage proportion of eosinophils were associated with changes both in the ACT score (r = 0.76, p = .04) and in the RHINASTHMA GS (r = 0.77, p = .02). The increase in the pH of the EBC was not associated with changes in the ACT score or with the RHINASTHMA GS. Conclusions. These findings confirm that, in subjects with allergic rhinitis with mild asthma, nasal inflammation impacts on asthma control and HRQoL. The improved control of respiratory symptoms obtained with nasal corticosteroids seems to be mediated by functional changes in the peripheral airways.
Adiposity, Adipokines, and Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Healthy Adults Without Asthma

Background. Epidemiological studies have shown that obesity/adiposity is closely associated with asthma in terms of development, severity, and control of asthma. However, effects of obesity/adiposity on airway inflammation are not well known in subjects without asthma. We assessed whether fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), a marker of eosinophilic airway inflammation, was associated with obesity/adiposity in nonasthmatic healthy adults. Methods. We measured FeNO and serum levels of adipose-derived hormones and adipokines in 117 adult subjects without a previous diagnosis of asthma or current asthmatic symptoms. Associations between FeNO and measures of obesity/adiposity [body mass index (BMI), body fat mass, and body fat percentages] were examined by correlation analyses and uni- and multivariate linear regression analyses. Results. FeNO was not significantly associated with BMI, body fat mass, or body fat percentage by a multivariate linear regression model, adjusting for age, gender, chronic rhinitis, atopy, and lung function. No significant association of FeNO with serum levels of leptin, adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, or interleukin (IL)-6 was observed. Conclusions. These findings suggest that in healthy subjects without asthma, obesity/adiposity has no significant effect on eosinophilic airway inflammation and that hormones and systemic inflammation derived from adipose tissue do not affect eosinophilic airway inflammation.
The Transition from Hypertensive Hypertrophy to Left Ventricular Systolic Chamber Decompensation

Hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) increases the risk for the development of heart failure with systolic chamber dysfunction. However, the exact mechanisms and hence best therapeutic approach to prevent this transition process is uncertain. One potential mechanism is through excessive β-adrenergic receptor (-AR) activation, but the risks of β-AR blocker therapy may outweigh the benefits. Since activation of -AR augments function of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, I therefore explored whether mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) blockade prevents the transition from hypertensive LVH to systolic chamber decompensation produced by excessive β-AR activation, and the mechanisms thereof. The role of hypertensive LVH as a predisposing factor to systolic chamber decompensation post-myocardial infarction (MI) is controversial. In the present thesis I therefore also evaluated this question. The effect of spironolactone (SPIRO, 80 mg.kg.day), an MR blocker, on LV chamber remodelling and function was evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) in whom decompensation was induced by administering a low dose of the -AR agonist, isoproterenol (ISO) for 4.5 months. ISO administration resulted in an increased urinary aldosterone excretion and LV cavity dimensions, a right shift in LV diastolic pressure-volume relations, and a decreased LV relative wall thickness without further enhancing an increased myocardial norepinephrine (NE) release in SHR. ISO reduced LV systolic chamber function (decreased LV endocardial fractional shortening and the slope of the LV systolic pressure-
Acute renal failure in pregnancy: Tertiary centre experience from north Indian population

Background: Obstetrical acute renal failure ARF is now a rare entity in the developed countries but still a common occurrence in developing countries. Delay in the diagnosis and late referral is associated with increased mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the contributing factors responsible for pregnancy-related acute kidney failure, its relation with mortality and morbidity and outcome measures in these patients. Materials and Methods: Total 520 patients of ARF of various aetiology were admitted, out of these 60 (11.5%) patients were pregnancy-related acute renal failure. Results: ARF Acute renal failure occurred in 32 (53.3%) cases in early part of their pregnancy, whereas in 28 (46.7%) cases in later of the pregnancy. Thirty-two (53.3%) patients had not received any antenatal visit, and had home delivery, 20 (33.4%) patients had delivered in hospitals but without antenatal care and eight (13.3%) patients received antenatal care and delivered in the hospitals. Anuria was observed in 23 (38.3%) cases, remaining 37 (61.7%) cases presented with oliguria. Septicemia was present in 25 (41.7%), hypertensive disorder of pregnancy in 20 (33.3%), haemorrhage in eight (13.3%), abortion in 5 (8.3%), haemolysis elevated liver enzymes low platelets counts (HELLP) syndrome in one (1.67%) and disseminated intravascular coagulation in one (1.67%). (61.7%) patients were not dialyzed, 33 (55%) recovered normal renal function with conservative treatment. Complete recovery was observed in 45 (75%) patients, five (8.4%) patients developed irreversible renal failure. Maternal mortality was nine (15%) and foetal loss was 25 (41.7%). Conclusion: Pregnancy-related ARF is usually a consequence of obstetric complications; it carries very high morbidity and mortality.
Late Gestational Undernutrition Alters Plasma IGF-1 Concentration During Subsequent Lactation in Ewe

Summary Th e objective of this study was to investigate the eff ects of undernutrition during late gestation on plasma concentration of insulin-like growth factor (IGF1), leptin, insulin and glucose in pregnant and lactating ewes. Ten twin-bearing shropshire ewes were fed either adequately (AN; 100% energy and protein requirements) or restrictedly (RN; about 60% of energy and protein requirements) fed during the last six weeks of gestation. Ewe’s blood samples were taken at 50, 28 and 10 days pre-partum as well as at lambing and 7, 17 and 35 days post-partum. At lambing plasma glucose concentrations sharply increased in both groups and it was signifi cantly lower in RN ewes in comparison with AN ewes. Plasma concentrations of insulin and leptin were not aff ected by late gestational undernutrition. Plasma IGF1 concentrations in RN ewes (78 ±8 ng/ml) was signifi cantly lower (P<0.05) than that in AN ewes (110 ±8 ng/ml). Plasma IGF1 decreased in RN ewes during late gestation and then increased sharply at lambing and during fi rst month of lactation. In contrast IGF1 concentration was relatively constant both pre and postnataly in AN ewes. IGF1 values in restricted fed ewes were signifi cantly lower than values in adequately fed ewes during gestation. Surprisingly IGF1 plasma in RN ewes was signifi cantly lower at 35 days (110 vs. 164 ng/ml) post-partum in comparison with those in AN ewes. In conclusion, results showed late gestational undernutrion causes a decrease in plasma glucose and IGF1 at parturition as well as during late gestation. In addition, late gestational undernutrition seems to have longer term eff ect on plasma IGF1 even when ewes are adequately fed during lactation.
Early Daycare Attendance Increase the Risk for Respiratory Infections and Asthma of Children

Objectives: To study the impact of daycare attendance on airways infections and “allergic” symptoms of children aged 1–8 years in Northeast Texas. Methods: Self-administrated questionnaires were distributed to parents through Women, Infants and Children offices, daycare centers, elementary schools, clinic centers, hospitals, and churches. The health outcomes consisted of “allergic” symptoms, and respiratory tract disorders. Questions on child care included; type of daycare settings (proxy for the number of children in daycare), time spent at daycare centers per week, and age of entry to a daycare center. Results: A total of 3766 children participated in this study, giving a response rate of 71%. Daycare attendance was associated with more frequent respiratory tract infections and “allergic” symptoms, compared to home care. A dose–response relationship between time spent at daycare centers and prevalence of respiratory tract disorders and asthma and allergies was observed. Earlier age exposure at daycare centers was a risk factor for rhinitis up to 7–8 years. Conclusions: Daycare attendance had a substantial negative influence on health status of children aged 1–8 years in Northeast Texas.
Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation in the intensive care unit: An experience from a tertiary hospital in Sub-Saharan Africa

Background: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is one the most commonly performed procedures in the intensive care unit (ICU). However, success rate of CPR vary widely from 3.1% to 16.5%. Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of all cardiac arrests prompting CPR in our ICU for a period of 12 months. Data retrieved from ICU records included patients demographic characteristics, diagnosis at admission, length of ICU stay, time and day of cardiac arrest, cardiac rhythm, duration of CPR and outcome of CPR. Results: A total of 156 CPRs were performed within the study period with 8.3% success rate. Male: female ratio was 1.2:1. Indications for ICU admission, length of stay in ICU, time and day of cardiac and duration of CPR were found to be determinants of outcome. Conclusions: There is an urgent need to constitute a cardiac arrest team (CAT) which will be available at all times for improved successful outcome after cardiac arrest in our ICU.
Determination of normal dimension of the spleen by ultrasound in an endemic tropical environment

Background: To determine the normal dimensions of spleen by ultrasonography in our environment exposed to endemic tropical infection and infestation. Materials and Methods: A prospective study of normal spleen ultrasound-based measurements in 200 Nigerian adults at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital Benin, Nigeria. Results: There were 91 males and 109 females; their age ranged between 20 and 60 years. For the males the mean age was 32.4 years (± 9.2 SD), mean height was 175.0 cm (±7.3 SD), mean weight was 72.5 kg (±10.1 SD), and mean body mass index was 23.6 (±2.8 SD) and the females the mean age was 29.7 years (±9.0 SD) mean height was 164.6 cm (±5.8 SD), mean weight 64.1 kg (±12.9 SD), and mean BMI was 24.9 (±1.4 SD). For the males the mean splenic length, width, depth, and volume were 11.1 cm (±0.9 SD), 4.4 cm (±0.5 SD), 7.8 cm (±0.6 SD), and 202.7 cm3 (±49.4 SD), respectively. For the females the corresponding values of splenic length, width, depth, and volume were 10.1 cm (±0.7 SD), 4.0 cm (±0.4 SD), 7.1 cm (±0.5 SD), and 153.7 cm3 (±33.2 SD), respectively. Conclusion: Comparison between mean splenic dimension parameters for males and females (from unpaired t-test determination) showed a statistically significant difference (P<0.001 for splenic length, width, depth, and volume). There was also statistically significant increasing value correlation between subjects’ weight and height (in favor of height) when compared to spleen length, width, depth, and volume. The other parameters show no significant correlation in both female and male. In particular there was also no statistically significant correlation of splenic measurements with age in either sex. This is similar to what was noted in other centers.
The effect of dietary habits on the development of the recurrent aphthous stomatitis

Background: The aim was to assess the relationship between the dietary habits and development of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Materials and Methods: Two groups (30 patients with RAS who have been following dietary habits and not associated with systemic disease or hematologic abnormalities, and the control group consist of 28 patients without recurrent aphthous stomatitis). Results: A Mann–Whitney test (P>0.05) shows no significance difference between the patients with RAS and the control group. Both groups eating similar food such as cheese, cow's milk, tea, lemon, coffee, orange, apple, yoghurt, and tomato, spicy food, but the patients with RAS ate specific foods containing (pH) like; oranges and lemons more frequently than the control group. Conclusion: Dietary habits have no important role in development of RAS but can lay a minor role in the pathogenesis of RAS either by causing hypersensitivity or by deficiency of some vitamins and minerals.
Glaucoma in developing countries

Objective: To describe the background and strategy required for the prevention of blindness from glaucoma in developing countries. Materials and Methods: Extrapolation of existing data and experience in eye care delivery and teaching models in an unequally developed country (India) are used to make recommendations. Results: Parameters like population attributable risk percentage indicate that glaucoma is a public health problem but lack of simple diagnostic techniques and therapeutic interventions are barriers to any effective plan. Case detection rather than population-based screening is the recommended strategy for detection. Population awareness of the disease is low and most patients attending eye clinics do not receive a routine comprehensive eye examination that is required to detect glaucoma (and other potentially blinding eye diseases). Such a routine is not taught or practiced by the majority of training institutions either. Angle closure can be detected clinically and relatively simple interventions (including well performed cataract surgery) can prevent blindness from this condition. The strategy for open angle glaucoma should focus on those with established functional loss. Outcomes of this proposed strategy are not yet available. Conclusions: Glaucoma cannot be managed in isolation. The objective should be to detect and manage all potential causes of blindness and prevention of blindness from glaucoma should be integrated into existing programs. The original pyramidal model of eye care delivery incorporates this principle and provides an initial starting point. The routine of comprehensive eye examination in every clinic and its teaching (and use) in residency programs is mandatory for the detection and management of potentially preventable blinding pathology from any cause, including glaucoma. Programs for detection of glaucoma should not be initiated unless adequate facilities for diagnosis and surgical intervention are in place and their monitoring requires reporting of functional outcomes rather than number of operations performed.
Critical issues in implementing low vision care in the Asia-Pacific region

Two-thirds of the world's population with low vision resides in the Asia-Pacific region. Provision of comprehensive low vision services is important to improve vision-related quality of life (QoL) for people with this condition. This review outlines the critical issues and challenges facing the provision of low vision services in the Asia-Pacific region. The review offers possible strategies to tackle these issues and challenges facing service providers and policy makers in lieu of Vision 2020 strategies in this area. Pertinent findings from the global survey of low vision services and extensive ground work conducted in the region are used; in addition, a discussion on the availability of services, human resources and training, and funding and the future sustainability of low vision care will be covered. In summary, current issues and challenges facing the region are the lack of specific evidence-based data, access, appropriate equipment and facilities, human resources, funding, and sustainability. These issues are inextricably interlinked and thus cannot be addressed in isolation. The solutions proposed cover all areas of the VISION 2020 strategy that include service delivery, human resources, infrastructure and equipment, advocacy and partnership; and include provision of comprehensive care via vertical and horizontal integration; strengthening primary level care in the community; providing formal and informal training to enable task shifting and capacity building; and promoting strong government and private sector partnership to achieve long-term service financial sustainability.
Stromal cell-associated expression of kallikrein-related peptidase 6 (KLK6) indicates poor prognosis of ovarian cancer patients

Abstract Several members of the human kallikrein-related peptidase family, including KLK6, are up-regulated in ovarian cancer. High KLK6 mRNA or protein expression, measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunoassay, respectively, was previously found to be associated with a shortened overall and progression-free survival (OS and PFS, respectively). In the present study, we aimed at analyzing KLK6 protein expression in ovarian cancer tissue by immunohistochemistry. Using a newly developed monospecific polyclonal antibody, KLK6 immunoexpression was initially evaluated in normal tissues. We observed strong staining in the brain and moderate staining in the kidney, liver, and ovary, whereas the pancreas and the skeletal muscle were unreactive, which is in line with previously published results. Next, both tumor cell- and stromal cell-associated KLK6 immunoexpression were analyzed in tumor tissue specimens of 118 ovarian cancer patients. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, only stromal cell-associated expression, besides the established clinical parameters FIGO stage and residual tumor mass, was found to be statistically significant for OS and PFS [high vs. low KLK6 expression; hazard ratio (HR), 1.92; p=0.017; HR, 1.80; p=0.042, respectively]. These results indicate that KLK6 expressed by stromal cells may considerably contribute to the aggressiveness of ovarian cancer.
Necroptosis modulated by autophagy is a predominant form of melanoma cell death induced by sanguilutine

Abstract We show that the plant quaternary benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloid sanguilutine (SL) is a strong inducer of caspase-independent non-apoptotic death in human melanoma cells. Necrostatin-1, a specific inhibitor of necroptosis, completely reversed the cytotoxic effect of SL, suggesting that necroptosis was a predominant type of cell death induced by SL in these cells. In addition, we showed that SL can trigger an autophagic response, as confirmed by GFP-LC3 puncta formation and LC3-II accumulation. Interestingly, we observed a significant decrease in the viability of melanoma cells treated with combination of autophagy inhibitors (3-methyladenine, bafilomycin-A1 and LY294002) and SL. Our results further indicated that autophagy may serve as a pro-survival mechanism, delaying the induction of necroptosis in melanoma cells. The ability of SL to induce caspase-independent non-apoptotic cell death (necroptosis) suggests its possible therapeutic potential in the treatment of apoptosis-resistant melanoma tumours. Furthermore, SL might serve as a useful tool for studying the mechanisms of necroptosis and autophagy induction and the interplay between these two processes.
Self care activities of patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 in Ho Chi Minh City

Self care is very important for patients with diabetes type 2, as it can reduce complications. A proper and functioning self-care requires, clear and relevant information and instructions from the health care givers. Aim: The purpose of this study was to investigate the self care activities of patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 in Ho Chi Minh City and compare these between genders. Research questions: How do patients with diabetes mellitus type 2, in Ho Chi Minh City, practice self care activities (diet, exercise, blood sugar test, foot care, smoking, medication and self-care recommendation)? Are there any differences between genders concerning these self-care activities? Method: A descriptive and comparative cross-section design with a quantitative method was used. Dorothea Orem's theoretical framework was also used. The data was collected at the Department of Endocrinology and the Endocrinology Clinic, Choray hospital, in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It was 100 participants who answered a questionnaire about their diabetes self-care activities. Results: Most of the participants had a good self-care of their diabetes type 2. A majority of the participants had got several self-care recommendations from their health-care givers concerning diet, exercise, medication and blood-glucose control. It was a significant difference between gender in favour for the male gender concerning the statements high fat food, participating in 30 minutes of exercise, check inside the shoes, dry between toes, counselling about stop smoking, tried herbal medicine as medication. Conclusion: The diabetes type 2 patients in Ho Chi Minh City need to get more information about self-care concerning blood-glucose, diet and exercise. Both genders need to adopt a healthy lifestyle into their daily life to reduce the risk of developing diabetes complications.
Analysis of the Relationship Between the Pro12Ala Variant in the PPAR-γ2 Gene and the Response Rate to Therapy With Pioglitazone in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes

OBJECTIVE —To investigate the influence of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) gene variants on the response rate to therapy with the thiazolidinedione (TZD) pioglitazone, because in vitro studies have suggested that genetic variants of the PPAR-γ gene may influence the drug efficacy of TZD. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS —A total of 131 patients were treated in an open-label, randomized, multicenter study with pioglitazone (45 mg o.d.) during a course of ≥26 weeks. Response to the pioglitazone therapy was defined by either a >20% decrease in fasting plasma glucose or a >15% decrease in HbA 1c values after 26 weeks of pioglitazone treatment. We evaluated the association between the PPAR-γ genotype and the response rate to pioglitazone treatment. RESULTS —The Pro12Ala and the Pro12Pro variants in the PPAR-γ gene are not associated with the response rate to pioglitazone treatment in patients with type 2 diabetes. However, we identified initial fasting plasma glucose level >11.0 mmol/l, HbA 1c value >9.0%, BMI >32 kg/m 2 , and fasting C-peptide concentrations at baseline >2.5 pmol/l as predominant confounding factors for the responder frequency to pioglitazone treatment. CONCLUSIONS —The Pro12Ala variant in the PPAR-γ gene does not affect the therapy efficacy of pioglitazone, suggesting that the drug-treatment response is independent from pharmacogenetic effects between PPAR-γ and its ligand pioglitazone. Whether the Ala12Ala genotype plays a role in the response rate to TZD therapy remains to be determined.