bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECTS OF AVOCADO (PERSEA AMERICANA) AQUEOUS SEED EXTRACT ON GROSS FEATURES OF LIVER AND HEPATOCYTE SIZE IN ISONIAZID AFFECTED ALBINO RATS
Authors: Abbasi Sana Qanber , Bashir Zahid , Tafweez Raafea , Aslam Aqsa , Mansoor Ghazal , Ibrahim Sobia
Published: July 2024

Background: Isoniazid (INH) has been associated with severe hepatotoxicity and fatal liver injury. This study aimed to observe the hepatoprotective effects of concomitant use of avocado aqueous seed extract on the gross features of liver and size of hepatocytes in INH induced hepatotoxicity in albino rats. Methods: This experimental study was conducted from Jan–Jun 2019. Thirty-six male albino rats were divided into 4 groups. Groups were administered treatment orally for 30 days. Group 1 received distilled water 1 ml/Kg/day. Group 2 received INH 100 mg/Kg/day dissolved in 1 ml distilled water. Group 3 was given aqueous avocado seed extract 250 mg/Kg/day in 2 ml distilled water and Group 4 received aqueous avocado seed extract 500 mg/Kg/day in 4 ml distilled water. Results: Highest mean liver weight was seen in Group 4 and lowest in Group 2. The weight of liver was significantly different among all groups but Relative Tissue Weight Index among all groups was insignificant. Colour of liver in four groups varied from reddish to pale red and reddish brown. The texture of all livers was smooth. Hepatocyte size was found to be largest in Group 2 and smallest in Group 1. Comparison among groups showed significant difference in sizes of hepatocytes. Conclusion: Concomitant use of aqueous avocado seed extract prevents INH-induced hepatotoxicity by maintaining body and liver weights, gross features of liver, and size of hepatocytes in a dose-dependent manner. 
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(2):38–42
MONKEY POX ?A LOOMING HEALTH CRISIS FOR THE WORLD
Authors: Iqbal Tehseen
Published: July 2024

Monkeypox is similar to Small Pox but it is less severe and less infectious than the small pox. Smallpox vaccination was approximately 85% protective against monkeypox. Ninety-two confirmed cases and twenty-eight suspected cases of Monkeyvirus were reported to World Health Organization between 13 to 21 May 2022 in 12 non-endemic countries in Europe, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Monkeypox is still a serious illness because of its complications, from the effects of sepsis and encephalitis to blindness from eye infections; nearly one in ten people infected are at risk of fatal complications, especially among young children. There is no diagnostic facility available in Pakistan. Health professionals should rely on their clinical skills to diagnose monkeypox. Flu-like symptoms are common initially, ranging from fever and headache to shortness of breath. One to 10 days later, a rash can appear on the extremities, head or torso that eventually turns into blisters filled with pus. Monkeypox produces smallpox-like skin lesions. Macules leading to Papules, Vesicles, Pustules, Scabs, Rash resolved in 14 to 21 days. An antiviral agent known as Tecovirimat is licensed by the European Medical Association (EMA) for monkeypox in 2022.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN AND COMPARISON OF SELF-EFFICACY AND CURIOSITY AMONG VISUALLY IMPAIRED PATIENTS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Yaqoob Nazia , Huda Noor Ul , Rafiq Maryam , Fatima Maham , Ali Maham
Published: July 2024

Background: The objective of this study was to find out the relationship between self-efficacy (SE), Curiosity and Demographic variables among visually impaired (VI) patients, and to assess the difference on SE and Curiosity among VI patients from rural and urban areas. Method: This was a cross-sectional study. A sample of 100 visually impaired patients (50 males and 50 females) was selected through purposive sampling technique. General self-efficacy scale, and curiosity and exploration inventory were used to measure SE and curiosity among study participants. Pearson product moment correlation, regression analysis, and independent sample t-test were run for data analysis. Result: The results depicted a significant correlation among curiosity, self-efficacy, gender, age, residence area, socioeconomic status (SES), and visual impairment. Regression analyses for patients of VI showed that curiosity and residence were important predictor of SE. The patients living in urban areas had a significantly high level of SE and curiosity as compared to those living in rural areas. Conclusion: Curiosity, SE, demographic variables and VI are associated with each other. SE can be predicted by curiosity and residence in patients with VI. Significant differences exist in VI patients in SE and curiosity with reference to their areas of residence.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(3):35?8
RADIOGRAPHIC COMPARATIVE REGENERATIVE EFFECTS OF HYALURONATE AND PIROXICAM IN OSTEOARTHRITIS MODELS OF RATS
Authors: Ishaq Noaman , Batool Saba , Qammar Maria , Aziz Muhammad Imran , Khan Muhammad Waqar Aslam , Javaid Sadia
Published: July 2024

Background: Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative joint disease that affects commonly in old age. Standard treatment of this disease is still underdeveloped, however multiple drug groups delay progression or reduce the symptoms. Objective of this study was to assess and compare the regenerative effects of hyaluronate and piroxicam in a rat model of osteoarthritis at the radiographic level. Methods: This laboratory-based randomized trial was conducted at Department of Pharmacology Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, from May to July 2019. Resection of the medial meniscus and anterior cruciate ligament resulted in osteoarthritis in the right knee joints of 24 rats. They were separated into 3 groups of 8 rats each. For 4 weeks, groups I, II, and III received intra-articular saline, hyaluronate, and piroxicam, respectively. After one week, radiographs of the anaesthetized rats’ matching knee joints were collected. Results: Comparison of radiograph of control group with drug treated group confirmed regenerative effects of hyaluronate and piroxicam (p=0.001). However comparison of hyaluronate and piroxicam treated groups had p=0.335 that professed both drug have equal regenerative effects in rat model of osteoarthritis. Conclusion: In a rat model of osteoarthritis, intra-articular injection of hyaluronate acid and piroxicam had regenerating benefits at the radiological level. Both administered medicines had similar regeneration effects.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(3):19–22
DIFFICULTY INDEX, DISCRIMINATION INDEX, SENSITIVITY AND SPECIFICITY OF SINGLE BEST ANSWER QUESTIONS TO ASSESS MEDICAL STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE IN SEND UP EXAMINATION AT LAHORE MEDICAL & DENTAL COLLEGE
Authors: Zafar Uzma , Ali Zaima , Khalid Attiqa , Zaki Saima , Naeem Faiqa Jabeen , Chaudhry Muhammad Asad
Published: July 2024

Background: Item analysis of the single best answer question based assessment is a simple and valuable method that can help the examiners to check the reliability and validity of this examination tool. This study aimed to determine difficulty index and discrimination index of single best answer question (SBAQ) based send-up Physiology paper of 1st Prof MBBS, and to check sensitivity and specificity of SBAQs to predict undergraduate medical students’ performance. Methods: This was an observational study. A retrospective review of undergraduates’ examination performance was done after approval from Institutional Review Board. Theory paper consisted of 45 SBAQs. Each SBAQ comprised a stem followed by five options. One option was correct and rest four were distractors. Data was analysed on SPSS-22. Difficulty and discriminative index was calculated. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve was generated. The sensitivity and specificity of SBAQ was determined. Results: Out of 45 items, 33 (73%) were having difficulty index within the acceptable range (30–70%), 3 (6.7%) were very easy with the difficulty index of more than 70%, and 9 (20%) very difficult with the index of less than 30%. Mean±SD difficulty index was 47.45±17.83. Discrimination index revealed 33 items within acceptable range, 10 were poor and 2 items revealed negative scoring. Mean±SD discrimination index was 0.30±0.19. ROC curve revealed AUC of 0.86 (p=0.000; CI= 0.803-0.90) with sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 89%. Conclusion: Mean difficulty index of send-up paper was within acceptable limits. However, discrimination index identified 12 items that need revision.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(3):44?7
CORRELATION OF ANTI-MÜLLERIAN HORMONE WITH LUTEINIZING HORMONE TO FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE RATIO IN PATIENTS WITH SUSPECTED INFERTILITY
Authors: Ali Humaira , Nadeem Ali , Asghar Sarah Sughra , Alam Junaid Mahmood , Naureen Shazia
Published: July 2024

Background: Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) is produced by growing ovarian antral follicles. AMH is well correlated with the quantity of primordial follicles in the ovary. This study aimed to see any association of Anti-Müllerian Hormone with Leutinizing Hormone (LH) to Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) ratio in patients suspected of infertility. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study performed in Department of Chemical Pathology/Biochemistry Laboratory Services of Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College Karachi from 1st April 2020 to 31st March 2021. Females aged of 18–50 years with suspected infertility were included. Women having other gynaecological diseases were excluded. Non-probability consecutive sampling was done. Blood was taken during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle for estimation of AMH, FSH, and LH by Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay. Data was analysed on SPSS-21. Mean and standard deviation were calculated, and Pearson’s correlation and One-way ANOVA was applied for variables. Result: A total of 103 patients were included in our study, out of which 62 (60%) had abnormal AMH and 41 (40%) had normal AMH levels. With abnormal AMH, we found a mild negative correlation with FSH and LH which are significant (p=0.001 and p=0.01 respectively). Regarding LH/FSH ratio, there was a mild positive and significant correlation with AMH (p=0.03). Conclusion: With low AMH levels, FSH and LH are increased and LH/FSH ratio is reduced. These findings can be used as markers of ovarian reserve in patients with infertility.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(1):26–8
HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF CHOLECALCIFEROL AND N-ACETYLCYSTEINE IN ACETAMINOPHEN INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN MICE
Authors: Munir Farzana , Naeem Uzma , Salim Salma , Choudhary Aeman
Published: July 2024

Background: The liver is a critical factor that has a vital role in metabolism and excretion of various chemical substances and drugs. Liver harm is a major problem to health that challenges healthcare vendors and the pharmaceutical industry. Acute liver injuries caused by various toxic chemicals, drugs, high alcohol intake, and microbes are studied well. This study aimed to measure the out-turn of cholecalciferol in comparison to N-acetylcysteine in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Methods: It was an experimental randomized control trial carried out in the Department of Pharmacology, Islamic International Medical College in collaboration with National Institute of Health Islamabad. Forty adult Balb-C mice were divided into four groups with 10 mice in every group. Group 1 was the Negative control group, and the experimental groups 2, 3, and 4 were administered acetaminophen to set off hepatotoxicity which was confirmed after one week through measuring alanine transaminase (ALT) levels. Group 3 was then administered cholecalciferol, and group 4 was given N-acetylcysteine. Terminal sampling was done on day 28 to evaluate the results. Statistical analysis was accomplished on SPSS-22. Comparison among groups was done using one-way ANOVA and student’s t-test, and p<0.05 was taken statistically significant. Results: Mice of groups 3 and 4 significantly reduced ALT levels as compared to group 2. Cholecalciferol significantly decreased ALT levels in hepatotoxic mice with efficacy greater than N-acetylcysteine. Conclusion: Cholecalciferol is more efficacious in the reversal of acute liver injury as compared to N-acetylcysteine.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(1):14-16
PLAUSIBLE CONFOUNDING FACTORS INFLUENCING ASSOCIATION OF LEFT VENTRICULAR HYPERTROPHY WITH VENTRICULAR LATE POTENTIALS IN HYPERTENSIVE PATIENTS
Authors: Riaz Bushra , Mubarak Sadia , Naureen Tallat , Qaiser Sidra , Ashfaq Mehvish , Khan Mahvash
Published: July 2024

Background: Ventricular late potentials (VLPs) are low amplitude, high frequency signals which are remarkable non-invasive electrocardiographic markers of myocardial tissue damage which can be used to identify ventricular arrhythmias in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). There are significant confounding factors which affect the association of LVH with VLPs in hypertensive patients. Noteworthy among these are gender, age, body surface area (BSA) and smoking. This study was planned to observe the effect of these confounders on VLPs in hypertensive patients with LVH. Methods: The study was conducted in Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology, Rawalpindi from Nov 2019 to Nov 2020. This was a cohort retrospective study in which 64 patients with systemic arterial hypertension on the basis of LVH were divided into two equal groups. Patients meeting inclusion criteria were selected for Signal-Averaged ECG (SAECG). Results: Out of 64 patients, 49 (76.6%) were males and 15 (23.4%) were females. The overall mean age was 60±11.80 years. To rule out the effect of probable confounders (gender, age, BSA, and smoking) which predominantly affects VLPs in hypertensive patients with LVH, logistic regression was applied. Significance of association of LVH with VLPs increased from 0.01 to 0.03 reflecting that confounder, i.e., age, gender, BSA, and smoking were actually having a negative effect on association of VLPs with LVH. Conclusion: None of the confounders were associated with VLPs reflecting negative effect on association for the two variables of interest.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(1):3-4
SEQUELAE OF COMPLETE HEART BLOCK PATIENTS COMING TO RAWALPINDI INSTITUTE OF CARDIOLOGY IN ASSOCIATION WITH PRESENTING COMPLAINTS
Authors: Shabbir Faizania , Rehman Irum , Gill Maria , Fatima Sabahat , Raja Tanvir Ahmad
Published: July 2024

Background: Complete heart block (CHB) is considered as a medical emergency and can be fatal if left untreated. Most patients with acquired complete heart block require a permanent pacemaker and their condition improves after implantation. Objective of this study was to determine the types and frequency of various presenting complaints and their correlation with treatment modality used. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted at Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology, Rawalpindi for a duration of six months. A total of 153 patients who were diagnosed having CHB were enrolled. The patients were extensively worked up for history, physical examination, blood tests, chest X-ray, electrocardiography and echocardiography. A pre-designed proforma was filled for each patient to record demographic details, risk factors, past medical and surgical history, vitals and other parameters. The treatment given to each patient was also recorded. Results: The most common presenting complaint was dizziness (37.9%), followed by chest pain (31.4%), and syncope (22.8%). Other presenting complaints (17.6% of patients) include shortness of breath, palpitations, generalized fatigue, tiredness and nausea. There was a negative correlation (p=0.003) between chest pain and pacemaker implantation. A negative correlation between syncope and death (p=0.050) was also observed. Conclusions: The most common presenting complaint was dizziness and majority (58.6%) of these patients were implanted with a pacemaker. Majority of patients who presented with chest pain were treated medically. No death occurred in group of patients who presented with syncope.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(2):40?3
JOB-RELATED DEPRESSION AMONG ICU AND NON-ICU HEALTHCARE WORKERS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Ali Ahmad , Munir Hamza , Ali Yousaf , Ali Hamid , Ullah Shakir , Israr Abdul Rehman
Published: July 2024

Background: A higher levels of job stress among healthcare staff showing an inverse relationship between job stress and job performance among healthcare workers has been reported. The aim of current study was to compare the frequency of depression among intensive and non-intensive unit healthcare workers in a tertiary care hospital in Peshawar. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar. A purposive questionnaire was designed to collect data from hospital staff working at intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU specialties while another questionnaire was used based on ‘Beck’s Depression Inventory’ for determination of depression levels. Sample size was calculated using WHO sample size calculator. The data was analysed on SPSS-21. Shift duration and unit of working were analysed through univariate and multivariate logistic regression for depression status. Odds ratio was calculated with 95% confidence interval by applying chi-square test. Results: The study included 214 participants. Average age of the included study participants was found to be 28.37±5.94 years. A significant difference was found in healthcare workers having shift duration more than 8 hours and in those working in ICU than non-ICU specialities (p<0.05). On multivariate logistic regression, shift duration of more than 8 hours (OR: 2.58, p=0.03) and being working in ICU (OR: 13.89, p<0.001) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion: Healthcare workers working at ICU and with shift duration of more than 8 hours are more prone to be mentally depressed.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(2):28–31
ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF GHRELIN ON NICOTINE-INDUCED RENAL TISSUE DAMAGE IN MICE
Authors: Jabeen Aqsa , Ahsin Sadia , Abbas Nasar , Kiyani Hira
Published: July 2024

Background: Ghrelin is an orexiogenic peptide released from stomach. It protects multiple organs of the body by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ghrelin combats oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant enzymes and decreasing lipid peroxidation. This study was done to determine the nephroprotective effect of ghrelin against nicotine induced renal tissue damage in BALB/c mice by estimating tissue antioxidant enzyme levels, namely catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde (MDA). Methods: This randomized control trial was conducted at Foundation University School of Health Sciences, Islamabad in collaboration with National Institute of Health, Islamabad. Total of 27 male mice from NIH were randomly allocated into 3 groups. Group I (control) received 1 ml/Kg body weight saline, Group II (nicotine only) received 2.5 mg/Kg of body weight nicotine daily and Group III (nicotine plus ghrelin) received nicotine 2.5 mg/Kg body weight each day along with ghrelin 10 ?g/Kg on alternate days for 29 days via intraperitoneal administration. Renal tissue sampling was done on 30th day for estimation of tissue oxidative stress markers through ELISA. Results: Nicotine administration led to significantly increased levels of CAT (p<0.001), SOD (p<0.001), GR (p<0.001), and decreased MDA (p<0.001) levels in group II. Administration of ghrelin along with nicotine in Group III resulted in significant restoration (p<0.001) of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, GR) and lipid peroxidation (MDA) (p<0.001) levels. Conclusion: Ghrelin acted as a potent antioxidant in nicotine induced oxidative stress in renal tissue suggesting its potential nephroprotective role.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(2):3–5
HEPATOPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF ZINC COMPLEX OF BETULINIC ACID ON PYRAZINAMIDE INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN MICE
Authors: Rehman Alia , Jehangir Adnan , Mohammadi Fatima , Salim Salma , Iftikhar Rabia , Rashid Amber
Published: July 2024

Background: Hepatotoxicity is a common side effect of pyrazinamide, a first line anti-tuberculous drug. Objective of this study was to determine the hepatoprotective effect of zinc complex of Betulinic acid (BA) on pyrazinamide induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Methods: This experimental, randomized control study was conducted at Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi, and National Institute of Health Islamabad from 1 Sep 2020 to 31 Aug 2021. Thirty male Balb/c albino mice were divided into three groups each having 10 mice. Group 1 received normal diet with no medication. Group 2 (NC) received pyrazinamide 500 mg/Kg daily for 28 days. Group 3 (DC) received Zinc complex of Betulinic acid 1 mg/Kg/day per oral once daily along with pyrazinamide. Final sampling was done on day 28 by intracardiac puncture for estimation of serum ALT and bilirubin level. Data was analysed on SPSS-21. Comparisons between the groups were analyzed using one way ANOVA (Post Hoc Tuckey test), and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Zinc complex of Betulinic acid treated group had significantly decreased serum ALT (58.00±5.639) and bilirubin (0.617±0.601) in comparison with pyrazinamide treated group. Conclusion: Zinc complex of Betulinic acid exerted significant hepatoprotective activity in pyrazinamide induced hepatotoxicity.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(3):36–8
FREQUENCY OF SARCOPENIA IN CIRRHOTIC PATIENTS DETERMINED ON ABDOMINAL COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
Authors: Khan Rimsha , Khalid Amna , Asmat Faryal , Bilal Muhammad , Farooq Kiran Fatima , Anwar Sarah
Published: July 2024

Background: Fibrosis of the liver progresses to cirrhosis resulting in hepatocellular dysfunction. Sarcopenia is an early sign of liver malfunction. Early detection of sarcopenia may provide a chance to cure or delay deterioration of liver function. This study aimed to detect sarcopenia on abdominal computed tomography (CT). Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out at the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Fauji Foundation Hospital Rawalpindi from 1st October 2022 to 31st March 2023. All patients suffering from Hepatitis B or C referred for evaluation of complications were included in the study. After informed consent and examination, at LV3 level an axial CT image in abdominal window was assessed on each scan using Radiant® software. Muscles including internal and external obliques and transversus abdominus, rector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and psoas were identified and evaluated. A threshold of -29 to -150 HU, and -29 to 150 HU for fatty tissue and skeletal muscles respectively was used. Cross-sectional area of each muscle was calculated on the vitrea and skeletal muscle index was calculated. Cut-off value for men was taken as 52.4 Cm2/m2, and for women it was 38.5 Cm2/m2. Results: A total 120 chronic liver disease patients (21 males and 99 female) were studied. All (100%) men, and 82 (83.8%) women had sarcopenia. Conclusion: Sarcopenia was a common finding with male predominance in patients suffering from Hepatitis B and/or C. CT evaluation is an effective and non-invasive tool for evaluation of sarcopenia as an indicator of liver dysfunction.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(3):20–2
AN OVERVIEW OF INTEGRATED MODULAR CURRICULUM FOR UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL PROGRAMMES IN SOME IMPORTANT COUNTRIES
Authors: Iqbal Tehseen
Published: July 2024

Several medical schools in the world including but not limited to the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), the University of Michigan Medical School, the University of Liverpool, the University of Manchester, the University of Dundee, the University of Western Australia (UWA), and the University of Adelaide first adopted and then moved to a more integrated curriculum because of the concerns about the effectiveness of the integrated modular curriculum (IMC) and because IMC was not providing the necessary depth of knowledge. The All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and the Christian Medical College (CMC) in Vellore, adopted but later reverted to the traditional curriculum. Other medical schools that have adopted and then left the IMC include the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) in Pune and the Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) in Delhi. History of IMC in medicine in some important countries is summarized here.
Pak J Pysiol 2023;19(3):1–2
RELAPSE VULNERABILITY AND PSYCHOLOGICAL ADJUSTMENT AMONG DRUG ADDICTS: ROLE OF INTEGRATED SELF AS A PREDICTOR
Authors: Fazaldad Ghazala , Khan Mussarat Jabeen , Chaudhary Minhal
Published: July 2024

Background: Drug addiction can cause a physical and biological harm, causing problems in family structure, and can contribute to the delinquency and high rates of crimes in a society. The aim of this study was to test the association between integrated self, relapse vulnerability and psychological adjustment. Method: To measure the integrated self, a scale was constructed in first phase of the study. In second phase 400 psychometric properties of new scale were determined. Integrated Self Scale, AWARE Questionnaire and Psychological Adjustment Scales were used. Sample comprised of 200 male drug addicts using purposive convenient sampling. Drug addicts suffering from any psychotic illness were excluded from the sample. Results: Findings indicate a significant negative relationship of integrated self with relapse vulnerability and positive relationship with psychological adjustment. The integrated self acts as a predictor of relapse vulnerability and psychological adjustment. Graduate drug addicts have integrated self, low relapse vulnerability and show better psychological adjustment as compared to undergraduate drug addicts when compared on educational level. Conclusion: This study is beneficial in finding ways to enhance self-integration of drug addicts so that their drug relapse can be reduced and in turn they can experience better psychological adjustment.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(4):42–5
AETIOLOGICAL FACTORS OF GRADE-III PROTEIN-CALORIE MALNUTRITION AMONG ADMITTED CHILDREN IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Gillani Saima , Shakeel Tahniat , Nawaz Darakhshanda , Raza Muhammad Ali , Hussain Saad , Khan Muhammad Sohail
Published: July 2024

Background: Aetiological factors of Protein-Calorie-Malnutrition (PCM) in underdeveloped countries are an established fact. An increase in number of children with grade-III PCM secondary to myriad of reasons has been noted recently. This study aimed to recognize the aetiological factors of grade-III PCM among admitted patients of grade-III PCM in Ayub teaching hospital Abbottabad. Methods: Severe acutely malnourished (SAM) children 6?60 months of age were selected following non probability random sampling technique. The chosen patients were selected according to WHO criteria of PCM grade-III. Primary data was collected from patients admitted to inpatient facility, on a questionnaire from patients whose anthropometric measurements fell under the criteria of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) by WHO during their hospital stay. Results: Higher number of SAM children was due to reversible aetiological factors like inaccessible food, inadequate breast-feeding and weaning practices, and improper food choices for weaning, illiteracy, ignorance, poor sanitation and large family sizes that led to SAM. From 100 patients (52 males), primary malnutrition was the most common cause for grade -III PCM present in 45 patients (23 females). Conclusion: Primary malnutrition was the main aetiological factor for grade-III PCM, more common among females, perhaps due to cultural issues in our region. It was also the main contributing cause in the toddler age group.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(4):39–41
PHYSIOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC SATISFACTIONLEVEL OF PATIENTS FOR ACRYLIC AND CAST ALLOY DENTURES
Authors: Mansoor Afsheen , Mansoor Emaan , Sana Aleeza , Javaid Muhammad Mohsin , Khan Aleshba Saba , Hussain Khadim
Published: July 2024

Background: The ultimate loss of dentition creates lot of oral problems for edentulous patients which can be prevented with the provision of acrylic or cast alloy denture but patient satisfaction level attributed to these dentures is still unknown. We evaluated patient satisfaction level regarding aesthetics, pain, cost, retention, comfort and speech between acrylic and cast alloy denture wearers. Methods: Freshly edentulous patients wearing complete dentures with acrylic resin denture (AD) (n=65) and Co-Cr cast alloy denture (CD) (n=65) took part in study. Smart Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire was used to investigate satisfaction of these patients after one month (AD-1 and CD-1) and then after 3 months (AD-3 and CD-3). Scoring system 0=Not-Satisfied, 1=Satisfied and 2=Well Satisfied was used to evaluate general satisfaction of patients in both groups regarding speech, taste, pain, aesthetics, comfort, cost, and retention. Results: Patient satisfaction level between AD and CD wearers displayed insignificant differences with respect to aesthetics (p=0.614), pain (p=0.842), retention (p=0.852), comfort (p=0.842), speech (p=0.943), and taste (p=0.753). Patient satisfaction level between AD and CD users related to cost was significant (p=0.001) depicting that AD group was more satisfied with cost as compared to CD users. Conclusions: Both groups were satisfied with their aesthetics, pain control, retention, comfort, speech, and taste but patients using AD were found to be more satisfied with cost as compared to CD users who found these dentures quite expensive.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(4):6-10
PHYSIOLOGY OF AFFERENT AND CENTRAL PARTS OF AUTONOMIC NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors: Iqbal Tehseen
Published: July 2024

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and the endocrine system control the internal environment of the body. The organization of the ANS is on the basis of the reflex arc. Changes in chemical composition, blood pressure, osmotic pressure, stretch in viscera, and temperature are detected by autonomic receptors. The visceral afferent fibres are myelinated and they accompany the visceral motor fibres. The sensory autonomic neurons are pseudo-unipolar cells located in the dorsal root ganglia of somatic spinal nerves. Once the afferent fibres gain entrance to the spinal cord or the brainstem, they are thought to travel alongside the somatic afferent fibres to the autonomic centres in different parts of the brain. Information reaches the higher autonomic centres from viscera through an ascending system that involves the nucleus tractus solitarius, the parabrachial nucleus, the periaqueductal gray matter, and the hypothalamus. The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, pontine A5 cell group, rostral ventrolateral medulla, and medullary raphe nuclei send direct output to the preganglionic autonomic neurons. The amygdala, mesencephalic periaqueductal gray, caudal ventrolateral medulla, nucleus of the tractus solitarius, and medullary lateral tegmental field feed into these direct pathways.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(4):1-2
ANTI-MÜLLERIAN HORMONE: A BETTER BIO MARKER FOR ASSESSMENT OF ANOVULATION IN POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL BIOMARKERS
Authors: Goheer Arfa , Saeed Rabia , Sajid Iqra , Hafiz Hafiza Asma , Khan Sara , Saad Ammar Bin
Published: July 2024

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of childbearing age. The objective of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) in predicting anovulatory PCOS, keeping day 21 progesterone level as gold standard. Methods: This cross-sectional validation study was conducted on 289 women aged 15–30 years with PCOS, from 11 Aug 2021 to 10 Feb 2022, in Pathology Department, Bahawal Victoria Hospital, Bahawalpur. AMH levels were measured and anovulatory events documented. AMH levels were compared with progesterone levels on the 21st day of the menstrual cycle. Results: In the cohort of individuals demonstrating a positive presence of AMH, a total of 149 were accurately identified as true positives, while 6 were mistakenly classified as false positives. Within the group of patients exhibiting a negative status for AMH, 8 were incorrectly categorized as false negatives, whereas 126 were correctly identified as true negatives. When evaluating the diagnostic efficacy of AMH as a predictor of anovulatory PCOS, with the 21st day progesterone measurement, the following metrics were ascertained: a commendable sensitivity of 94.90%, a robust specificity of 95.45%, a notable positive predictive value of 96.13%, a substantial negative predictive value of 94.03%, and an impressive overall diagnostic accuracy of 95.16%. Conclusion: The diagnostic accuracy of Anti-Müllerian hormone in predicting anovulatory PCOS is very high. 
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(1):8-11
MENTAL HEALTH AND RESILIENCE AMONG PAKISTANI WOMEN SUFFERING FROM POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
Authors: Ishfaq Wardah , Mushtaq Rabia
Published: July 2024

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is associated with multiple mental health issues, however resilience can work as a buffer against mental illnesses. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between mental health and resilience and to compare mental health and resilience between working and non-working women suffering from PCOS. Method: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the gynaecological wards of government and private hospitals and clinics from January to June 2023. Two hundred women suffering from PCOS were selected through non-probability sampling. The data was collected through two reliable measures: the Mental Health Inventory 38-Urdu (MHI-38) and the Connor Davidson Resilience Scale-Urdu. Data was analyzed on SPSS-26 by means of Cronbach alpha reliability, Pearson correlation, Mean±SD, and t-tests. Results: Psychometric properties showed high reliability of the study scale for MHI 38-U (?=0.87) and for CDRS-U (?=0.82, p<0.001). There was a significantly positive correlation between mental health and resilience (r=0.85, p<0.001). Non-working women experience lower mental health (Mean±SD 85.37±9.91) than working women (Mean±SD 136.50±12.94), (p<0.001). Working women experience higher resilience (Mean±SD 65.06±8.71) than non-working women with PCOS (Mean±SD 47.55±12.17), (p<0.001). Conclusion: There was a significant positive relationship between mental health and resilience. Non-working women reported compromised mental health and low resilience compared to working women suffering from PCOS.
Pak J Pysiol 2024;20(1):45-47
OUTCOME OF EARLY INITIATION OF POST-SURGERY FEEDING AFTER COLOSTOMY REVERSAL IN CHILDREN
Authors: Siddique Muhammad , Iqbal Tariq , Arbi Fawad Mueen , Ahmad Fayaz , Tabinda Yasmin Tabinda , Saad Ammar Bin
Published: July 2024

Background: Children undergoing colostomy reversal surgery often face uncertainties regarding the optimal timing for reintroducing feeding postoperatively. Early initiation of post-surgery feeding is of interest due to its potential to hasten recovery and reduce hospital stay. The impact of early feeding initiation is unclear. Objective of this study was to find out the outcome in terms of hospital stay and post-surgery complications of early initiation of post-surgery feeding after elective colostomy reversal in children. Methods: From 6 Jun 2022 to 10 Oct 2023, a non-randomized controlled trial was conducted at Bahawalpur, analyzing 93 children under 15 years with status colostomy following elective reversal. Patients were allocated to Group-A (traditional oral feeding) or Group-B (early oral feeding) at the surgeon’s discretion, with outcomes including post-surgery hospital stay duration and complications. Results: Out of a total of 93 patients, 49 (52.7%) were boys and 44 (47.3%) girls. Overall, mean age was 4.86±3.27 years. Anastomotic shock was noted among 6 (6.5%) patients while 9 (9.7%) patients had superficial surgical site infection. None of the patients needed repeat surgery for any post-surgery complications. No significant difference in terms of anastomotic leak (p=0.3983), and superficial surgical site infection (p=0.4980) were observed. Significantly shorter duration of post-surgery hospital stay was recorded among patients of Group-B when to compared to Groups-A (6.49±1.14 vs 8.90±1.27, p<0.0001). Conclusion: Early initiation of enteral feeding post elective colostomy reversal in children resulted in significantly reduced duration of post-surgery hospital stay.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(1):30-2
EFFECT OF DAPAGLIFLOZIN AND EMPAGLIFLOZIN ON BODY WEIGHT, LIPID PROFILE AND BLOOD PRESSURE IN TYPE 2 DIABETICS
Authors: Hussain Mazhar , Habib ur Rehman  , Arain Abdul Qudoos , Amanat Ali  , Sameer Ahmed  , Mehwish Tayyab
Published: July 2024

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with risk factors including weight, lipid profile, and blood pressure. Evidence suggests sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors benefit T2DM patients. This study investigated the effects of SGLT-2 inhibitors on these risk factors in T2DM patients. Methods: This quasi-experimental study at Sheikh Zayed Medical College/Hospital, Rahim Yar Khan randomized T2DM patients with inadequate glycaemic control. First group received dapagliflozin 5?10 mg and second group received empagliflozin 10-25 mg as add-on therapy to conventional antidiabetic drugs for 12 weeks. The dose was adjusted based on serum blood sugar, with primary endpoints assessing changes in glycaemic control (blood sugar and HbA1c) from baseline. Secondary endpoints included recording additional glycaemic effects (body weight, BMI, lipid profile, and blood pressure) from baseline to endpoint. Results: Both drugs showed excellent tolerability and safety profiles with no major adverse effects. Significant reductions in body weight (empagliflozin 86.7±18 to 78±16.5 Kg, p=0.001; dapagliflozin 89.8±12 to 83±10 Kg, p=0.005), and BMI (empagliflozin 28±5.5 to 26.5±4.2 Kg/m², p=0.003; dapagliflozin 29.6±4.2 to 25.7±5.8 Kg/m², p=0.002) were observed. Both drugs significantly improved glycaemic control, fasting blood sugar (empagliflozin 180±32 to 140±44 mg/dL, p=0.003; dapagliflozin 190±48 to 150±33 mg/dL, p=0.005) and HbA1c (empagliflozin 9.7±2.6 to 7.5±1.8%, p=0.004; dapagliflozin 9.0±1.82 to 7.0±2.2%, p=0.001). Neither drug showed significant improvements in blood pressure or serum lipid profile. Conclusion: Empagliflozin and dapagliflozin have a modest effect on CVD risk factors in T2DM patients.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(2):36-40
FREQUENCY AND MORPHOLOGICAL PATTERNS OF CNS TUMORS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL OF SOUTH PUNJAB
Authors: Qaisrani Abdul Rehman , Shaheen Uzma , Majeed Sadia , Jahan Naseem , Shaheen Saba , Qaisrani Farah Rehman
Published: July 2024

Background: The incidence of CNS tumours is increasing rapidly especially in young population. CNS tumours include a set of neoplasms which originate form brain parenchyma, pituitary gland, pineal gland, spinal cord and meninges. The aim of this study was to observe the frequency and morphological patterns of CNS tumours in a tertiary care hospital of South Punjab. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of 100 cases of brain tumours was conducted at the Pathology Department of DG Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan. One-hundred cases of CNS tumour biopsies were included with the relevant clinical and radiological findings. Results: A total of 100 cases of CNS tumours were studied. The morphological distribution of various CNS tumours was as follows: Astrocytoma (49%), Meningioma (19%), Schwannoma (8%), Oligodandroglioma (6%), Metastatic tumour (4%), Ependymoma (4%), Pituitary Adenoma (2%), Medulloblastoma (2%), Mixed Gliomas (2%), Germ Cell Tumours (1%), Craniopharyngioma (1%), Lymphoma (1%), Vascular tumours (1%). Conclusion: Among the CNS tumours Astrocytomas were the commonest tumours followed by Meningiomas, Schwannoma and Oligodendroglioma.
Pak J Pathol 2024;20(2):24-6
Obtención y caracterización de un sustrato nutritivo hecho a partir de los desechos del cacao para la producción de una plántula de hortaliza
Authors: García Alma Verónica , Jacobo Marroquín José Roberton
Published: July 2024

En el beneficiado del cacao se producen una gran cantidad de desechos, de los cuales las cáscaras son las de mayor relevancia; las mazorcas generalmente son desechadas dentro de los mismos cultivos y genera problemáticas como la proliferación de insectos y microorganismos patógenos. Se evaluó añadirles valor a estos subproductos incorporando desechos de cáscara de cacao en laformulación de un sustrato para el cultivo de hortalizas. El objetivo de esta investigación fue obtener un sustrato que sirva de soporte material y nutritivo para plántulas de hortalizas, a partir de cáscaras de cacao criollo. La biomasa vegetal se caracterizó teniendo en cuenta parámetros como el porcentaje de humedad, pH, porcentaje de cenizas, contenido de potasio, nitrógeno y fósforo. Posteriormente se ejecutaron pruebas comparativas de formulación, siembra y crecimiento de las plántulas de hortalizas, tomate y pepino, obteniendo la fórmula óptima del sustrato y el mejor medio de desarrollo. De los resultados se concluye que, a partir de un adecuado procesamiento y aprovechamiento de las cáscaras de cacao, transformamos un desecho en un producto biomaterial alternativo que genera una opción de bioprospección agroindustrial. Los valores obtenidos en la caracterización de las mazorcas dependen de condiciones como el tipo de suelo, variables agrometeorológicas, calidad de agua, abono y especie de la planta. El escenario de siembra, condiciona el desarrollo óptimo de las plántulas, factores como requerimiento de agua, distribución de nutrientes y estabilidad de la plántula, se ven afectados por la relación del espacio de germinación.
Información veraz para la reactivación económica en el contexto pandémico
Authors: Donis Pedro
Published: July 2024

Los grandes volúmenes de datos tienen como consecuencia un nuevo paradigma de cómputo donde múltiples trabajadores o nodos de trabajo necesitan estar orquestados. La investigación analiza los factores que pueden interferir o contribuir para que la calidad de la información se mantenga dentro de los diferentes sistemas de información o conjuntos de datos del universo dedatos en determinada industria. El método principal consiste en estudiar el rastro o huella que los sistemas de Big Data dejan y que contribuyen como evidencia para poder medir las tasas, probabilidad y relaciones por duplicidad, ausencia total o parcial de información, para que no afecte en los procesos donde se utiliza la misma. Esta puede ser para un análisis forense, monetización, seguridad de la red y otras categorías que la industria requiera. Entre los resultados principales se observan cuatro grupos de información completa, dos de ellos de forma similar, y los otros dos tienen características extremas; o sea, un grupo muy reducidoy, en el extremo derecho, un grupo muy grande, donde el proceso se ha mantenido consistente durante un tiempo. Se analiza un conjunto de ocho muestras de una población total de cincuenta y tres variables indicadoras de calidad de información para un conjunto de datos big data. Estas variables han presentado errores importantes en la muestra investigada, por lo que se determinaque la fuente no es 100 % confiable dadas las tasas de errores. Esto se debe a problemas en el proceso que genera el conjunto de datos o la fuente primaria operativa.
एडवीन जे. एफ. डी'सोजाच्या कादंबरिंनी स्त्रियो
Authors: D'Souza David
Published: July 2024

एका लेखकाच्या साहित्यांतल्या स्त्री पात्रांचें विशलेषण केल्ल्ये वरवीं स्त्रियां विशीं त्या काळाच्या समाजेचीं वर्तनां कितें आनी कसलीं म्हळ्ळ्याचें चित्रण मेळता, मात्र न्हय, इतिहासीक तशेंच सामाजीक संदरभांची अंतरदीश्टयी लाबता. ही दीश्ट लिंग गतिविग्यानाची गूंड समजणी दिता आनी प्रतिनिधित्व आनी रूढिवादाची विमर्शात्मक तपासणी करुंक सकता. ही समजणी आनी तपासणी साहित्य आनी सामाजीक संवाद - दोनयी वाडोंक कारण जाता. एडवीन डिसोजाच्या साहितीक क्यान्वासांत चड करून असतमती स्त्रीयांचे शेगूण-आत्मविश्वास, आकर्शीक व्यक्तित्व, सोबाय- चड पळेवंक मेळता तरी, ताच्या कादंबरिंनी पारंपरीक भारतीय स्त्रियांचें खाशेलेंपण पांगुरलल्या स्त्रियांकयी पळव्येता. हें लेखन एडवीन डिसोजाच्या निमाणी शेळी (1967), 1969 इसवेंत दोन भागांनी बरयिल्ली शेतांतलीं फुलां- दोन भाग (दुस्रो छापो 1983) मोगाची रात (1972), केंबेरळ्ळी (1984), दऱ्यांत पावस पडलो (1995) कादंबरिंतल्या स्त्री पात्रांचें विशलेषण कर्ता. हें विशलेषण विशाल सामाजीक वर्तन आनी सामाजीक प्रभाव एडविनाच्या कादंबरिंतल्या स्त्री पात्रदारिंनी कसो प्रतिफलीत केला म्हळ्ळें दाकंवच्ये संगीं, लेखकाक ह्या थराच्या पात्रांच्या चित्रणा पाटलें प्रेरण, ताका कारण जाल्ली सांसकृतीक भर्शिकाय आनी सामाजीक निरीक्षणाचें विशलेषणयी दाखल करता.
Peran Pendidikan Kristen Terhadap Upaya Pencegahan Kasus Perdagangan Manusia
Authors: Bernadus Kilapong Lidya
Published: July 2024

Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peran pendidikan agama Kristen terhadap upaya pencegahan perdagangan manusia mencakup definisi, penyebab, dan upaya pencegahan. Perdagangan manusia bertaut dengan segala bentuk transaksi jual beli terhadap manusia yang melibatkan kekerasan dan paksaan. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kepustakaan dengan pendekatan deskriptif kualitatif. Peneliti mengumpulkan data dari pelbagai sumber untuk dianalisis terkait dengan peran pendidikan Kristen dalam upaya pencegahan perdagangan manusia. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa peran pendidikan Kristen dalam mencegah perdagangan manusia dapat dicegah sedini mungkin dengan melibatkan pelbagai program pendidikan terintegrasi, mengintegrasikan nilai-nilai Kristen dalam kurikulum sekolah, serta mendorong partisipasi aktif masyarakat. Rekomendasi pada penelitian ini: 1) Perlunya perhatian dan pengawasan dari orang tua terhadap anak mereka, serta menanamkan nilai-nilai Kristiani, sehingga menjadi contoh yang baik dalam keluarga. 2) Edukasi pemerintah terkait dengan cara mencegah perdagangan manusia, meningkatkan peran serta lembaga-lembaga sosial maupun keagamaan dalam pendampingan korban perdagangan manusia, membuat panduan khusus tentang cara mencegah perdagangan manusia, serta bersama instansi terkait membuat perangkat hukum terkait penanggulangan perdagangan manusia. 3) Gereja perlu melakukan tindakan konkrit dengan memberikan pendidikan Kristen dalam hal menanamkan nilai-nilai Kristiani.
An Exploratory Study on the Application and Impact of Artificial Intelligence Technology in China’s Film and Television Industry: Centered on the Innovation and Development Strategy of AI in Film Production
Authors: Zegang Liu Zegang Liu ,   Northeast Asian Arts and Cultural Management Association
Published: July 2024

Purpose - This paper discusses the historical traceability of artificial intelligence technology and its development lineage in the film and television industry. It analyzes the close connection between AI technology and the film and television industry. The text summarizes the challenges and impacts of AI technology on the film and television industry, along with suggestions for future development.
Design/Methodology/Approach - In order to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on the film and television culture industry, this paper analyzes the impact of artificial intelligence on the film and television culture industry from the perspective of macro-industry and the perspective of application technology, starting from the overall technological impetus of artificial intelligence to the film and television culture industry and the application of artificial intelligence in film and television image processing. The case was analyzed in detail. Based on a summary of previous research, this study identifies key issues and proposes solutions.
Findings - Through the research of this paper, the problems of artificial intelligence in film and television creation are summarized, and the potential problems are easily generated technical dependence, legal risks in creation, and reduced professional value of practitioners, etc. Countermeasure suggestions are put forward to break the technical dependence, provide a legal basis for the creation of artificial intelligence, and adjust the use of the positioning to realize the synergy between man and machine.
Research Implications - This paper aims to enhance the application of AI in the film and television culture industry, thereby increasing the industry vitality of the film and television sector.