bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remarks on Prof. Schulze’s Memoir on Cordylophora Lacustris
Authors: Allman F.R.S. , Schulze Franz Eilhard
Published: December 2023

A Memoir with the above title has recently been published by Dr. Schulze, of Rostock. The author obtained the remarkable hydroid which forms the subject of it in brackish water in the neighbourhood of Rostock, and he has subjected it to an elaborate and exhaustive examination. He identifies it, moreover, with a hydroid which under the name of Tubularia cornea was described by Agardh as long ago as 1816, in the ‘Transactions’ of the Royal Academy of Stockholm.
Remarks on Dr. Nitsche’s Researches on Bryozoa
Authors: Smitt
Published: December 2023

In the ‘Zeitschrift für wissenschaftliche Zoologie,’Bd. vi, Hft. 4, Doctor Hinrich Nitsche has published his “Beiträge zur Kentniss der Bryozoa,” of whom you already, in April, 1871, had received and published an extract—”On some Interesting Points concerning the Mode of Reproduction of the Bryozoa.” In these excellent papers you will find a critique of my views on the subject, as well as very good additions to my observations; but I am sorry to find, that the distinguished doctor in many points has mistaken my meaning and overseen my statements, without doubt because of the difficulties of the language.
Description of a New Genus of Ixodea
Authors: Macalister Alex
Published: December 2023

The specimens of this parasite which I have examined I obtained from the skin of the many shielded pangolin of West Africa (Manis multiscutata), and as I have not met with any notice of a similar arachnidan, I conclude that the form is as yet undescribed, and as its distinctive characters seem of generie value I propose for the genus the name Adeno-pleura. The following will be its characters:
On the homology of the gonangium in the genus halecium
Authors: Allman
Published: December 2023

In the hydroid genus Halecium (see woodent) the hydranths, as is well known, are carried on the extremities of lateral processes of the stem. These processes are sometimes simple (b), but they are frequently extended by one or more tubular prolongations, when they assume somewhat the appearance of the drawn-out tubes of a telescope (c).
Proceedings of societies: Microscopical Society of London
Authors: Brooke Charles
Published: December 2023

DR. PIGOTT, of Halifax, and AV. II. B. Hunt, Esq., were balloted for, and duly elected members of the Society.
Literary and Philosophical Society, Manchester: Microscopical Section
Authors: Latham A. G.
Published: December 2023

The annual report of the section for session 1862-63 was read, and officers appointed for the ensuing session.
Impact of a pharmacist-led patient-centred care intervention along with textmessage reminders, on the management of newly diagnosed tubercular patients: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Khan Farman Ullah , Khan Faiz Ullah , Hayat Khezar , Fang Yu
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Non-adherence to tuberculosis (TB) treatment is the leading cause of the increase in drug resistance cases. This study will determine the effectiveness of pharmaceutical-care-based interventions coupled with short messages delivered by a pharmacist on treatment outcomes and adherence among TB patients.

Methods: The study will be conducted in TB Control Center of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital, Islamabad and District Bannu TB Control Center time period will be from August 2019 to September 2021. The patients will be included into the control group (usual care) or the intervention group pharmaceutical care and SMS reminder. The primary outcome includes a change in mean score from baseline in treatment outcomes and adherence, measured by Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, and clinic appointment attendance registration. Secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life of patients, disease knowledge, and patient satisfaction with the intervention.

Result: The major issues in patients with TB are cure rate and medication adherence. The method anticipated in this manuscript could set the foundation of pharmaceutical care and mobile SMS for the future provision of care to improve TB treatment outcomes.

Conclusion: The study will make available fundamental information about the influence of the patient centered program on the adherence and clinical outcomes of patients with TB.

Trial status and registration: Clinical Trials.gov assigned Identifier NCT04645836.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.5356

How to cite this: Khan FU, Khan FU, Hayat K, Fang Y. Impact of a pharmacist-led patient-centred care intervention along with textmessage reminders, on the management of newly diagnosed tubercular patients: A protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.5356

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Assessment of eating habits, lifestyle and physical activity among medical and dental students of Faisalabad Medical University
Authors: Hafiz Muhammad Usama Zuhair  , Kiran Fatima  , Umer Hussain  , Dr Ayesha Ayub
Published: December 2023

Objective: To assess the eating habits, lifestyle and physical activity and their impact on health of students of Faisalabad Medical University (FMU) Faisalabad Pakistan.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was prepared on 328 medical and dental students at Faisalabad Medical University from June, 2022 to October, 2022. Three Factor Eating Questionnaire Revised 21 (TFEQ-R21) was used to assess the eating habits among medical students and physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short version. A self-constructed questionnaire was used to assess lifestyle patterns.

Results: According to the study, 191(58.2%) students out of 328 practiced unrestricted eating. While 229(69.8%) students demonstrated cognitive restraint and 128(39%) students indulged in emotional eating. Less than half of the students, 52(15.9%) lead unhealthy lifestyles compared to 276(84.1%) who had healthy habits. Out of 328 students, 104 (31.7%) engaged in low, 137(41.8%) in moderate, and 87(26.5%) in high levels of physical activity. Whereas a higher proportion of female students engaged in low to moderate physical activity (61.5% and 52.6%, respectively), while a higher proportion of male students (63.2%) were involved in intense physical activity.

Conclusions: A large proportion of medical students exhibited poor dietary habits with low physical activity. Obesity and other metabolic diseases are more likely to strike medical students who engage in these unhealthy eating habits. As future health providers, health interventions must be implemented to avert future harm.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7323

How to cite this: Zuhair HMU, Fatima K, Hussain U, Ayub A. Assessment of eating habits, lifestyle and physical activity among medical and dental students of Faisalabad Medical University. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7323

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Gender and its association with cardiac defects in down syndrome population at Children Hospital & Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Haider Areiba , Khan Sarah , Tafweez Raafea , Yaqoob Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of different congenital cardiac defects co-existing in karyotypically proved Down syndrome population. It also highlighted the association between gender and pattern of congenital cardiac defects and gender as a risk factor.

Methods: A cross sectional comparative study was done in the Department of Genetics, Children Hospital Lahore in the year 2017. A total of 160 patients were subjected to karyotypic analysis through blood test for determining the type of Down Syndrome and Echocardiography of all established cases was performed for determining presence and types of congenital cardiac defects. Results were evaluated in terms of establishing co-existence of various cardiac phenotypes in Down Syndrome cases.

Results: In karyotypically proven 160 cases of Down syndrome, 58.1% of Down Syndrome cases and 88.2% of Down Syndrome with Congenital Cardiac Defects presented in infancy. The odds ratio (OR) suggested that females are 1.72 times more likely to experience a cardiac effect compared to males. Female gender was potentially associated (p-value 0.07) with occurrence of Patent Ductus Arteriosus (47.8%), whereas VSD (Ventricular Septal Defects) was most prevalent (41.1%) in males. Patent Ductus Arteriosus + Atrial Septal Defects (44.4%) was the commonest cardiac defect in female cases. The combined data for pattern of cardiac anomalies showed no significant association with gender, as indicated by a p-value of 0.990.

Conclusion: The study concluded that most of Down syndrome cases and Down syndrome with congenital cardiac defects present to the hospital in infancy. Female cases are more prone to develop cardiac defects as compared to males. The manifestation of PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus) was significantly associated as an isolated anomaly in females and VSD (Ventricular Septal Defects) as isolated anomaly in males. Patent Ductus Arteriosus tend to co-exist most with ASD (Atrial Septal Defects) in female cases. Gender was not established as a risk factor for affecting the pattern of cardiac defects.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7346

How to cite this: Haider A, Khan S, Tafweez R, Yaqoob M. Gender and its association with cardiac defects in down syndrome population at Children Hospital & Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7346

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Association of insertion /deletion polymorphism of ace gene with essential hypertension in patients of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Razaq Abdur , Khan Ayesha , Shah Syed Tahir , Ullah Sana
Published: December 2023

Objective & Background: The exact cause of hypertension is unknown in about 90 to 95% patients, known as essential hypertension. Genes may play a crucial role in the pathology of essential hypertension. Gene for angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is found on long arm of chromosome 17q23, where 287 base pair insertion or deletion (I/D) polymorphism may occur. This study was aimed to assess the association of I/D polymorphism of ACE gene with blood pressure (BP) in Patients of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).

Methods: This Descriptive Cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st June 2021 to 30th September 2021 at Kuwait Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. The genomic DNA was extracted from lymphocytes and PCR was performed for identification of ACE I/D polymorphism.

Results: Total 181 individuals (121 Hypertensive and 60 normal) were enrolled in the study. The measured systolic and diastolic BP in cases were 153.91mmHg±12.65 and 92.94mmHg±5.72, respectively while in control were 118.20±17.13 and 74.12mmHg±7.58, respectively. The Deletion Homozygous (DD), Insertion Homozygous (II) and Deletion and Insertion Heterozygous (DI) genotypes in hypertensive patients were 47 (38.84%), 17 (14.04%) and 57 (47.10%) respectively while in Control group the DD, II and DI were 4 (6.66%), 25 (41.66%) and 31 (51.66%) respectively. This study showed association of DD genotypes of the ACE gene with hypertension as compared to healthy individuals.

Conclusion: Individuals with DD genotype may have association with hypertension. polymorphism of ACE gene was proved to be an important genetic marker for essential hypertension in Patients of KPK.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7354

How to cite this: Razaq A, Khan A, Shah ST, Sana Ullah. Association of insertion /deletion polymorphism of ace gene with essential hypertension in patients of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7354

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Understanding ethics of reporting health related events in media: A qualitative phenomenological study in Karachi and Peshawar
Authors: Shaikh Shiraz , Nadeem Aroosa , Musharraf Mehjabeen , Fazid Sheraz
Published: December 2023

Objective: The specific objectives of this study were to identify the ethical issues in reporting of health-related events in media and suggest ways to improve it.

Method: This was a qualitative phenomenological study conducted by APPNA Institute of Public Health, Jinnah Sindh Medical University in collaboration with Institute of Public Health, Khyber Medical University from January to April 2022. A total of 38 focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted either face to face at place of convenience of interviewees or online. The participants were health reporters, healthcare workers (HCWs), and representatives of law enforcement agencies in two cities i.e., Karachi and Peshawar. Data were analyzed by using the deductive and inductive approaches, by four independent experts including the Principal Investigator (PI) and three research fellows.

Results: Ethical issues related to health reporting in the field included interference of the reporters in rescue efforts during an emergency and interference in emergency medical care of the victims. In reporting, careless disregard for patient confidentiality and privacy; using unreliable sources of information; using wrong terminology; sensationalizing the news and jumping to conclusions in cases of malpractice were reported as main problems. Negative influences on health reporting included poor training of the reporters on health reporting ethics, organizational pressures, and lack of cooperation by relevant health authorities.

Conclusion: The quality of health reporting can be improved by building the capacity of health reporters in understanding the ethical issues and their social responsibilities toward health.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7414

How to cite this: Shaikh S, Nadeem A, Musharraf M, Fazid S. Understanding ethics of reporting health related events in media: A qualitative phenomenological study in Karachi and Peshawar. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7414

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Depression, anxiety, stress and other mental health conditions of personnel undergoing hospital isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and influencing factors
Authors: Wang Baoyan , Li Lei , Liu Jing , Zhan Bo
Published: December 2023

Objective: To understand the depression, anxiety, stress and other mental health conditions of personnel undergoing hospital isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and the influencing factors.

Methods: This was retrospective study. A total of 120 personnel undergoing Baoding No.1 Hospital isolation who completed the questionnaires were included from June 10, 2021 to February 07, 2022. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9(PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Scale (GAD7) and psychological stress measurement table (PSTR) were used for psychological problem screening for personnel undergoing hospital isolation.

Results: The incidence of depression was the lowest, while that of stress was the highest. The difference in the incidence of depression, anxiety and stress among personnel undergoing hospital isolation with different gender, age, income statuses, marital statuses and attitude towards isolation was statistically significant (p< 0.05), while the difference in the incidence of these problems among personnel with different degree of education was not statistically significant(p> 0.05). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that age, gender, marital status, economic status and attitude towards isolation are factors associated with stress. Economic status and attitude towards isolation are factors associated with depression. A high economic level is a protective factor against depression, while a negative attitude is a risk factor for depression.

Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, anxiety, depression and stress increased to different extents in personnel undergoing hospital isolation, especially in females with poor economic conditions and poor attitudes towards isolation. Therefore, necessary psychological counseling and social support should be provided to these people.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7511

How to cite this: Wang B, Li L, Liu J, Zhan B. Depression, anxiety, stress and other mental health conditions of personnel undergoing hospital isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic and influencing factors. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7511

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Study on the impact and clinical effect of high-quality nursing intervention on the quality of life of elderly cataract patients
Authors: Zuo Kunkun , Sun Zhaoqing , Wen Kai
Published: December 2023

Objective: To evaluate the impact and clinical effect of high-quality nursing intervention on the quality of life of elderly cataract patients and its clinical effect.

Methods: This is a clinical comparative study. One hundred and twenty elderly cataract patients admitted to Tianjin Medical University Eye Hospital for surgical treatment were recruited and randomly divided into two groups: the control and experimental group, with 60 cases in each group from January 15, 2021 to January 15, 2022. Patients in the control group were given conventional nursing care in the perioperative period, while those in the experimental group were given high-quality nursing intervention in the perioperative period. The differences in anxiety (SAS) scores, depression (SDS) scores, intraocular pressure (IOP) recovery, the incidence of surgical complications and satisfaction before and after treatment between the two groups were compared and analyzed.

Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in physical functioning, psychological functioning, social functioning and material life status scores before intervention(P>0.05). After the intervention, the above indicators improved significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group, with statistically significant differences (P=0.00). Moreover, SAS and SDS decreased significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group, with statistically significant differences (P=0.00).

Conclusions: High-quality nursing intervention improves various benefits in the treatment of elderly cataract patients, such as effectively reducing intraocular pressure, ameliorating patients’ quality of life, lowering the incidence of postoperative complications, and improving patient satisfaction.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7526

How to cite this: Zuo K, Sun Z, Wen K. Study on the impact and clinical effect of high-quality nursing intervention on the quality of life of elderly cataract patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7526

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Outcomes of liver diseases in pregnant females: A study from a tertiary care medical center in Pakistan
Authors: Butt Nazish , Ali Sabir , Yasmeen Haleema , Mumtaz Khalid
Published: December 2023

Objective: To determine the etiologies and outcomes of liver disease in pregnancy in a developing country.

Method: A total of 336 consecutive pregnant women with liver disease were included in this prospective cohort study conducted at the Department of Gastroenterology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center, Karachi from August 2019 to August 2021. Patients’ baseline demographic, clinical, and laboratory data and outcomes were collected on a pre-designed questionnaire.

Results: Among all the pregnant females, the most common liver disease was acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection (37.2%), followed by preeclampsia (PEC)/eclampsia (EC), hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes & low platelets (HELLP) syndrome, and hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). The most common maternal complications were fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) in 14.9% and placental abruption in 11.0%. Fetal complications included intrauterine death (IUD) in 20.8% and preterm birth in 8.6%. The maternal and neonatal mortality rates were 11.6% and 39.6%, respectively. Among the predictors, low maternal weight, low body mass index (BMI), and low hemoglobin (Hb) were associated with increased maternal mortality. Low fetal weight, height, maternal systolic blood pressure (SBP), and low maternal Hb were independent predictors of fetal mortality.

Conclusion: In our cohort of pregnant females in a tertiary care medical center, acute HEV was the most common liver disease, followed by PEC/EC, HELLP, and HG. Maternal and fetal deaths were alarming in this group of patients and demanded careful management.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7670

How to cite this: Butt N, Ali S, Yasmeen H, Mumtaz K. Outcomes of liver diseases in pregnant females: A study from a tertiary care medical center in Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7670

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of cases with and without acute liver injury in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection; obstetric and neonatal outcomes
Authors: Kulhan Nur Gozde , Orgul Gokcen , Avci Fazil , Kulhan Mehmet
Published: December 2023

Background and objective: The effect of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the liver during pregnancy and the impact of SARS-COV-2-related liver injury during pregnancy on obstetric and neonatal outcomes are not yet clear. The aim of this study was to determine the clinical features of pregnant women at risk of liver injury and to investigate the effect of liver dysfunction on obstetric and perinatal outcomes.

Methodology: Pregnant women who were followed up and treated at Selcuk University Medical Faculty Hospital and diagnosed with COVID-19 were determined retrospectively. All pregnant women whose PCR test results were positive between March 1, 2020 and July 31, 2022 were included. A total of 96 PCR positive pregnant women were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups as those with and without liver damage. Both groups were compared in terms of obstetric and neonatal outcomes.

Results: While liver damage findings were observed in 34.4% of the 96 pregnant included in the study; No liver damage was observed in 65.6% of the patients. White blood cell, neutrophil, ferritin, D-dimer, troponin, C-reactive protein, systemic immune-inflammation index, interleukin-6, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase levels were higher in patients with liver injury compared to pregnant women without liver injury. Prematurity, premature rupture of membranes, preterm premature rupture of membranes, preeclampsia and fetal death were observed relatively more in the patient group with liver injury, there was no statistical significiant difference between the groups in terms of these complications. Unfortunately, maternal death occurred in four mothers with liver injury and in one patient without liver injury. Birthweight, APGAR scores and obstetric complication rates were similar between two groups.

Conclusion: Our study showed that pregnant patients with liver damage had worse inflammatory response than those without liver damage. Women with elevated liver enzymes tend to have severe disease, but obstetric and perinatal outcomes were similar between groups with and without liver damage.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7746

How to cite this: Kulhan NG, Orgul G, Avci F, Kulhan M. Comparison of cases with and without acute liver injury in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection; obstetric and neonatal outcomes. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7746

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
S. Rao Spiral Suturing (SRSS) of Lower Uterine Segment: An Innovative Hemostatic Technique in the Management of Placenta Previa and Accreta Spectrum
Authors: Rao Shahid Irshad , Shaheen Uzma , Hasan Syeda Husna
Published: December 2023

Objective: The study aimed to demonstrate the efficacy and safety of an innovative hemostatic technique in managing Placenta Previa and Accreta Spectrum by S. Rao Spiral Suturing (SRSS) of a lower uterine segment.

Method: In this retrospective study conducted at Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology Unit-II of Nishtar Medical University, Multan between December 2018 to January 2021, one hundred and thirty consenting patients’ clinical records were reviewed with major degree placenta previa/placenta accrete spectrum, either operated electively or presented in an emergency, with or without a history of previous cesarean section. The enrolled patients underwent SRSS, procedure’s efficacy and safety were measured by the number of obstetrical hysterectomies, the time required for the procedure, estimated blood loss, blood transfusion volume, need for any other hemostatic technique, bladder trauma, pelvic infection, scar site hematoma or abscess, sepsis, duration of hospital stay and maternal mortality.

Results: Out of 130 patients, 17(12.6%) had Placenta Accreta, 86(66.3%) Increta, and 27(21%) Percreta. The Placenta location was anterior dominant in 102(78.4%) cases and posterior in 17(8.4%). Of the patients who underwent surgery, only two required obstetrical hysterectomy due to uncontrolled bleeding. The procedure took three to five minutes in 127 patients and five to seven minutes in three patients. Regarding intraoperative blood transfusion, 54.6% of patients were transfused 1000-2000 ml blood, and 5.38% required >3000 ml. No blood transfusion was required postoperatively in any patient. Postpartum hemorrhage, infection, fever, and sepsis were not observed in any patient postoperatively. None of the patients suffered bladder injury. All patients were discharged as per routine.

Conclusion: SRSS is an innovative, safe, effective, and simple suturing technique for patients with Placenta Previa and Accreta spectrum.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7747

How to cite this: Rao SI, Shaheen U, Hasan SH. S. Rao Spiral Suturing (SRSS) of Lower Uterine Segment: An Innovative Hemostatic Technique in the Management of Placenta Previa and Accreta Spectrum. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7747

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Incidence, management and outcome of Hepatic Veno-Occlusive disease /Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome after hematopoietic stem cell transplant in Thalassemia major patients: A prospective study of Pakistani BMT
Authors: Nisar Haider , Khan Memoona , Azam Khattak Tariq , Ghafoor Tariq , Chaudhry Qamar Un Nisa
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Hepatic Veno occlusive disease (VOD), also known as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (VOD/SOS), is a post-transplant life threatening complication. In this study, we aimed to discuss the incidence, management and outcome of VOD in post allogenic transplant patients of beta thalassemia major (BTM).

Methods: A prospective study was conducted in Armed Forces Bone Marrow Transplant Center, between 2001-2022. A total of 385 fully Human Leucocyte Antigen (HLA) matched BTM patients, with Ursodeoxycholic acid for prophylaxis, were included in the study. Incidence of VOD was calculated through cumulative incidence estimates. Chi square test and Mann Whitney test were used to compare discrete and continuous variables respectively. VOD was diagnosed and graded according to European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation EBMT Pediatric diagnostic criteria. Risk factors for VOD were grouped as recipient, transplant and donor related. Univariate analysis was performed by log-rank test. All patients who developed VOD were managed primarily with fluid restriction and strict input output monitoring. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v 25.0.

Results: Out of 385 transplant patients, forty developed VOD. Median time from date of transplant till onset of VOD was 14 days (range 6-30). Cumulative incidence of all grade VOD was 10.39% (95% CI, 7-14). Eleven out of 40 patients who developed VOD died. Cumulative incidence of Transplant related mortality (TRM) for patients with and VOD was 20.5% (95% CI, 16.6-25.1) vs 27.5% (95% CI, 16.1-42) (p value 0.318) respectively. Among risk factors, age of recipient and fibrosis (p value of 0.04 and 0.000 respectively) were found to be significantly associated with VOD.

Conclusions: Careful selection of transplant candidates before transplant can help reduce the incidence of VOD.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7901

How to cite this: Nisar H, Khan M, Khattak TA, Ghafoor T, Chaudhry QN. Incidence, management and outcome of Hepatic Veno-Occlusive disease /Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome after hematopoietic stem cell transplant in Thalassemia major patients: A prospective study of Pakistani BMT. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7901

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Frequency and risk factors of malabsorption in patients presenting at tertiary care hospital, Karachi
Authors: Mohammad Masood  , Channa Riaz Hussain , Butt Nazish
Published: December 2023

Objective: The objective of this study was to find out frequency and risk factors of malabsorption in patients presenting at tertiary care hospital, Karachi.

Methods: This was a prospective-observational study conducted through a non-probability consecutive sampling technique. Ninety two adult patients presenting with a history of chronic diarrhea (diarrhea having duration of more than four weeks), age ≥14 years, both males & females, and diagnosed as malabsorption syndrome visiting out-patient or admitted in the department of Gastroenterology of the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center, Karachi between June 2018 and July 2020 were enrolled. Baseline and clinical data were recorded in a pre-designed questionnaire and analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 21.0.

Results: The overall mean age and standard deviation of patient was 35.42±10.83 years. Diarrhea n=71 (77.17%), fever n=35 (38.04%), abdominal pain n=32 (34.78%), and weight loss n=13 (14.13%) were the most common symptoms observed in our study subjects. Most of the patients had normal upper GI endoscopy (26.56%) while multiple fundal erosions with pre-pyloric ulcer and severe pangastric erythema & classical scalloping of duodenal folds were most common findings observed, 21.87% and 17.18%, respectively.

Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that malabsorption syndrome is most commonly present in males with younger age group and the most common causes were celiac disease and intestinal tuberculosis and most common presentation was diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7957

How to cite this: Masood M, Channa RH, Butt N. Frequency and risk factors of malabsorption in patients presenting at tertiary care hospital, Karachi. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.7957

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Correlation between serum microRNA-122 and VEGF expression and pregnancy outcome in gestational diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: He Hongmei , Wang Yi , Wang Haijiao , Ma Yulan , Zhang Pan
Published: December 2023

Objective: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) seriously influences the health of mothers and babies, and there are still no effective early diagnostic markers. Therefore, our study planned to probe the correlation between serum microRNA-122 and VEGF expression and pregnancy outcome in GDM patients.

Methods: This was a retrospective study of the correlation between serum microRNA-122 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and pregnancy outcome in GDM patients. Sixty GDM patients admitted to the Fourth Hospital of Shijiazhuang from January 2021 to October 2022 were included in the research group (RG), and another 60 healthy pregnant women were included in the control group (CG). Serum miR-122 and VEGF levels were quantified using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The value of miR-122 and VEGF in predicting adverse pregnancy outcomes was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results: Serum miR-122 and VEGF levels in the RG were higher relative to the CG. The total occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in the RG was higher relative to the CG (P<0.05). Serum miR-122 together with VEGF levels in the poor outcome group was higher relative to the good outcome group (P<0.05). ROC analysis revealed that miR-122 and VEGF could be used to predict adverse pregnancy outcome (P<0.0001). The area under the curve of miR-122 was 0.860, 95% confidence interval (CI) =0.793-0.926, and the area under the curve of VEGF was 0.780, 95% CI =0.694-0.866. Serum levels of miR-122, VEGF were positively related with abortion, preterm delivery, low birth weight infants, macrogenesis infants, and fetal development abnormalities (P<0.001).

Conclusion: The higher serum miR-122 and VEGF levels in GDM patients with satisfactory blood glucose control, the greater the probability of adverse pregnancy outcome, which should be paid attention to by clinicians.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8467

How to cite this: He H, Wang Y, Wang H, Ma Y, Zhang P. Correlation between serum microRNA-122 and VEGF expression and pregnancy outcome in gestational diabetes mellitus patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8467

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of Callisphere Drug-Eluting Beads Transarterial Chemoembolization and Conventional Transarterial Chemoembolization for the treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ren Yongjun , Zhao Caixia , Xiong Yongfu , Liu Zhongbai , Wu Guo
Published: December 2023

Objective: To compare the efficacy of CalliSphere drug-eluting beads (DEBs) and conventional (c) transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 125 patients with HCC who had received treatment in Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College from January 2018 to February 2019. Sixty-one patients underwent DEB-TACE (observation group) and 64 patients underwent cTACE (control group). The clinical efficacies, overall survivals, and incidence of postoperative adverse reactions between the two groups were compared.

Results: The objective response rate in the observation group (85.25%) was higher than that in the control group (70.31%; P<0.05). The disease control in the observation group (96.72%) was higher than that in the control group (85.94%; P<0.05). The median survival time of the observation group (24.85 months) was significantly higher than that in the control group (18.18 months; P<0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the observation group (4.92%) was lower than that in the control group (17.19%, P<0.05).

Conclusions: In the treatment of HCC, Callisphere DEB-TACE has better efficacy and longer patient survival with fewer adverse reactions compared to cTACE.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8572

How to cite this: Ren Y, Zhao C, Xiong Y, Liu Z, Wu G. Comparison of Callisphere Drug-Eluting Beads Transarterial Chemoembolization and Conventional Transarterial Chemoembolization for the treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8572

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave combined with platelet rich plasma in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis with meniscus injury: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Li Jin , Li Jie , Li Dan , Jin Xi , Liu Sheng , Zhang Liheng
Published: December 2023

Objective: To determine the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave (ESW) combined with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy on knee osteoarthritis (KOA) with meniscus injury in terms of pain relief, functional outcome and complications.

Methods: This is a retrospective observational study. Clinical data of 144 patients with KOA accompanied by medial meniscus injury, who received treatment in Jilin Provincial People’s Hospital from March 2021 to December 2022, were retrospectively evaluated. A total of 128 patients (81 males and 47 females) were finally included in the study after screening. Of them, 45 patients received PRP treatment (PRP-group), 43 patients received ESW treatment (ESW-group), and 40 patients received ESW combined with PRP treatment (Combined-group). The relief of knee joint pain and functional improvement among three groups of patients were compared.

Results: After treatment, visual analogue scale (VAS), Lequesne, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scores of patients in the Combined-group were significantly lower than those in the other two groups (p<0.05). Combined ESW-PRP treatment was associated with significantly greater joint range of motion of patients compared to ESW and PRP alone (p<0.05). The total incidence of related complications in the Combined-group was lower compared to the other two groups (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Compared with PRP or ESW treatment alone, ESW combined with PRP for KOA with meniscus injury can better alleviate pain, achieve faster functional recovery, and significantly reduce complications.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8670

How to cite this: Li J, Li J, Li D, Jin X, Liu S, Zhang L. The efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave combined with platelet rich plasma in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis with meniscus injury: A retrospective analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8670

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Effect of calcium plus Vitamin-D combined with calcitriol in the treatment of patients with Type-2 diabetes and osteoporosis: A retrospective observational analysis
Authors: Wan Jinxing , Xie Jun , Hu Chaohui , Liu Jiahe , Zhu Chunyan
Published: December 2023

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of calcium plus Vitamin-D combined with calcitriol in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and osteoporosis.

Methods: In this retrospective observational study clinical records of 90 patients with T2DM combined with osteoporosis, treated in The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from October 2019 to April 2022 were incuded. All patients received basic hypoglycemic treatment. Of 90 patients, 43 received calcium plus Vitamin-D adjuvant therapy (Control-group), and 47 patients received calcium plus Vitamin-D combined with calcitriol adjuvant therapy (Observation-group). Clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, bone metabolism levels, and changes in bone density levels were compared between the two groups.

Results: The clinical efficacy of the treatment was significantly higher in the Observation-group (93.6%) compared to the Control-group (83.7%; p<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the two groups (p>0.05). After treatment, bone metabolism and bone density indicators in both groups improved, and were significantly better in the Observation-group compared to the Control-group (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Combination of calcium plus Vitamin-D and calcitriol adjuvant therapy in patients with T2DM and osteoporosis is safe and associated with better treatment efficacy, improved bone metabolism and bone density parameters than calcium plus Vitamin-D treatment alone.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8795

How to cite this: Wan J, Xie J, Hu C, Liu J, Zhu C. Effect of calcium plus Vitamin-D combined with calcitriol in the treatment of patients with Type-2 diabetes and osteoporosis: A retrospective observational analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2024;40(3):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.40.3.8795

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Features of the Formation of an Organization's Information Resource Management System
Authors: Unger D.
Published: December 2023

The article deals with issues related to the peculiarities of the formation of information resource management systems, which is an urgent and significant problem for the modern economic system. To disclose the problem of research, the paper considers the concept of modern information resources, describes the characteristics of information resources and reveals different approaches to the formation of information resource management systems. The study is implemented by implementing such methods of scientific knowledge, as information analysis, synthesis and synthesis of information, structuring. The con-clusion of the work provides brief conclusions on the results of the study and voiced current issues requiring further reflection
Analysis and Optimization of Business Processes Through the Use of Modern Technologies
Authors: Bagirzade A.
Published: December 2023

This article discusses the possibilities of integrating modern technologies into an organization’s business processes in order to increase efficiency. Nowadays, modern business technologies are a relevant tool for achieving effective solutions, minimizing costs and improving the quality of products or services. This article will present technologies such as AI (Artificial Intelligence, process robotization, crypto operations (P2P, B2B and B2P markets), cloud technologies. As a result of the study, recommendations on the use of modern business technologies are presented.
Organizational, Economic and Managerial Solutions for the Development of Retail Services of Retail Chains Based on the Implementation of a Customer Loyalty Management System
Authors: Yakhontova Irina , Nilova N.
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the issue of improving the process of interaction with customers and the development of organizational, economic and managerial solutions for the development of retail services of trading networks based on the development and implementation of modern digital solutions for managing loyalty systems. The work conducts research in the field of improving customer interaction processes, namely maintaining the customer base and attracting new customers, provides an overview of loyalty programs in Russia and digital solutions for automating customer loyalty management systems. The promising areas of customer loyalty management identified during the review were confirmed by data from open sources. The relevance of the topic is due to the proposal to manage a loyalty system based on the digitalization of this business process. The authors examined the problem of increasing the customer focus of retail chains, which is popular in the current economic conditions, based on the introduction of a customer loyalty system. An accessible way to solve the problem was identified, which consists in the development and implementation of an information system for loyalty management. The functional composition of the information system being developed to ensure the effective implementation of the business process is indicated, and a list of organizational and economic measures for the successful implementation of the system is provided.
Mechanisms for Protecting Consumers of Digital Financial Services
Authors: Kushtar M.
Published: December 2023

Modern trends in digitalization, which are becoming global in nature, radically affect the financial sphere of people’s lives. The use of digital technologies and the capabilities of the Internet helps to speed up and facilitate access to various financial services. Currently, customers can take advantage of a wide range of financial services, ranging from payments (for example, for utilities) to obtaining a consumer loan, without even leaving their place of residence. Such operations can be carried out in various ways: through an ATM, payment terminal, information kiosk, mobile or Internet application, by sending SMS in other ways. Payment for such services can be made either in cash or non-cash, or using special digital means, for example, electronic money or cryptocurrency. However, for financial services clients, the progress and spread of digital technologies not only increases the comfort and speed of financial transactions, but also increases risks that need to be taken into account and analyzed, as well as mitigation measures taken. The object of the study is the economic and legal relations that arise in the process of consuming digital financial services. The purpose of the study is to characterize the current mechanisms for protecting consumers of digital financial services. Research methods - analysis and synthesis, documentary method, abstract-logical method, statistical method, comparative legal, logical-legal methods. The scientific novelty of the research is the systematization of trends in the development of digital financial services, the main risks for users of these services, as well as key areas and mechanisms for protecting consumers of digital financial services.