bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leg and arm adiposity is inversely associated with diastolic hypertension in young and middle-aged United States adults
Authors: Visaria Aayush , Lo David , Maniar Pranay , Dave Bhoomi , Joshi Parag
Published: January 2022

Background

We sought to determine the association between appendicular adiposity and hypertension, with the purpose of better understanding the role of body fat distribution on blood pressure (BP).

Methods

We included 7411 adults aged 20 to 59 who were not taking antihypertensives and without cardiovascular disease from the 2011 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Leg & arm adiposity, determined via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans, was defined as percent of total body fat present in legs/arms (leg/total%, arm/total%). Measures were categorized into sex-specific tertiles. We estimated change in BP and odds ratios (ORs) of hypertension (BP ≥ 130/80) and hypertension subtypes using multivariable, survey design-adjusted linear & logistic regression, respectively.

Results

Of the participants, 49% were female, the average (standard deviation) age was 37.4 (0.3) years, and 24% had hypertension. Those in the highest tertile (T3) of leg/total% had 30% decreased adjusted ORs (aOR) of hypertension compared to the lowest tertile (T1; aOR, 0.70; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.55–0.89). This association was not significant for arm/total% (0.89, 0.68–1.17). T3 of leg/total% was associated with 49% lower, 41% lower, and unchanged relative odds of isolated diastolic hypertension (IDH), systolic-diastolic hypertension (SDH), and isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) compared to T1 (IDH: 0.51, 0.37–0.70; SDH: 0.59, 0.43–0.80; ISH: 1.06, 0.70–1.59). For every 10% increase in leg/total%, diastolic BP decreased by an adjusted mean 3.5 mmHg (95% CI, − 4.8 to − 2.2) in males and 1.8 mmHg (95% CI, − 2.8 to − 0.8) in females (P < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

A greater proportional distribution of fat around the legs is inversely, independently associated with hypertension, and more specifically, diastolic hypertension (IDH and SDH).
Baseline predictors of progression of Parkinson’s disease in a sample of Egyptian patients: clinical and biochemical
Authors: Helmy Asmaa , Hamid Eman , Salama Mohamed , Gaber Ahmed , El-Belkimy Mahmoud , Shalash Ali
Published: January 2022

Background

Clinical progression of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is highly heterogeneous, and its predictors are generally lacking. Identifying predictors of early disease progression is important for patients’ management and follow-up. The current study aims to identify clinical, neuroimaging and biochemical baseline predictors of motor progression in patients with PD. Forty-five PD patients were assessed at baseline, 6 months and 1 year using MDS-UPDRS total and subscores, Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y), Schwab and England (S&E), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Baseline New Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (NFOG-Q), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Ten-Meter Walking Test (10-MWT),and Time Up and Go Test (TUG), Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), PD questionnaire 39 (PDQ-39), MRI brain, uric acid, lipid profile and glycated hemoglobin were performed.

Results

Significant worsening of MDS-UPDRS total, part III scores, H&Y, S&E and IPAQ (p < 0.001) was detected. One-year progression of H&Y and S&E were significantly correlated to disease duration (p = 0.014,p = 0.025, respectively). Progression of H&Y was correlated to baseline TUG (p = 0.035). S&E progression was correlated to baseline MDS-UPDRS total score (rho = 0.478,p = 0.001) and part III (rho = 0.350,p = 0.020), H&Y (rho = 0.401,p = 0.007), PIGD (rho = 0.591,p < 0.001), NFOG-Q (rho = 0.498,p = 0.001), and TUG (rho = 0.565,p = 0.001). Using linear regression, there was no predictors of clinical progression among the used baseline variables.

Conclusion

Despite the significant motor and physical activity progression over 1 year that was correlated to baseline motor and gait severity, but without predictive value, further similar and longitudinal studies are warranted to detect predictors of early progression and confirm findings.
Inadvertent severe hypercapnia during general anesthesia: drop-in oxygen saturation or electrocardiography changes; which one warns us earlier?
Authors: Solhpour Ali , Tajbakhsh Ardeshir , Safari Saeid , Movaffaghi Maryam , Pourhoseingholi Mohamad Amin , Soltani Fereshteh
Published: January 2022

Background

During general anesthesia especially when the nurse or anesthesiologist forgets to change manual to controlled mode after successful endotracheal intubation, capnography shows End-tidal Co2 above 20 mmHg after checking the place of the tracheal tube and will remain on the screen permanently. In this scenario, the patient receives a high concentration of oxygen, and Spo2 (oxygen saturation) does not drop for a long time which is too late to intervene. It has been all-time questionable which one of the cardiac dysrhythmias or Spo2 dropping occurs earlier.

Results

Medical records of seven deceased patients reviewed. All of them had electrocardiogram changes including premature ventricular contraction or bradycardia as a first warning sign. Oxygen saturation remains above 95% even with cardiac dysrhythmia.

Conclusions

Bradycardia and premature ventricular contraction were the first warning findings for severe hypercapnia during general anesthesia and occurred earlier than dropping oxygen saturation. Furthermore, the normal capnography waveform is more reliable than the End-tidal Co2 number for monitoring.
Ecological risk factors of soil-transmitted helminths infections in Ifedore district, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Oyewole Odunayo Emmanuel , Simon-Oke Iyabo Adepeju
Published: January 2022

Background

Soil-Transmitted Helminths are a group of parasites that cause gastrointestinal infections in humans and require the soil to develop into their infective forms. Ecological factors such as soil temperature, soil pH and rainfall patterns are, however, important determinants for the successful transmission of soil helminths as they play a major role in their abundance and survival in the soil. The study investigated the ecological factors influencing the transmission of soil-transmitted helminths in Ifedore district, Southwest Nigeria.

Results

Out of the one hundred and ninety-two (192) soil samples from the study area, one hundred and fifty-two 152 (79.2%) were positive for the presence of soil helminths’ larvae and ova. Higher occurrence of soil helminths was recorded during the rainy months (n = 416) than during the months with no records of rainfall (n = 290). Sandy soil had the highest number of soil helminths 285 (40.4%), while clay soil recorded the least 88 (12.5%). Soil temperature showed negative correlations with the occurrence of Ancylostoma duodenale (r =  − 0.53) and Strongyloides stercoralis larvae (r =  − 0.36), while soil conductivity showed positive correlations with the occurrence of Ascaris lumbricoides (r = 0.28) and A. duodenale (r = 0.34).

Conclusion

It is evident from the study that ecological factors played a significant role in the occurrence and abundance of soil-transmitted helminths. This research is important for predicting and monitoring soil-transmitted helminthiasis in endemic countries, and to devise effective control measures.
“It’s good to feel like you’re doing something”: a qualitative study examining state health department employees’ views on why ineffective programs continue to be implemented in the USA
Authors: Mazzucca Stephanie , Saliba Louise Farah , Smith Romario , Weno Emily Rodriguez , Allen Peg , Padek Margaret , Brownson Ross C.
Published: January 2022

Background

Mis-implementation, the inappropriate continuation of programs or policies that are not evidence-based or the inappropriate termination of evidence-based programs and policies, can lead to the inefficient use of scarce resources in public health agencies and decrease the ability of these agencies to deliver effective programs and improve population health. Little is known about why mis-implementation occurs, which is needed to understand how to address it. This study sought to understand the state health department practitioners’ perspectives about what makes programs ineffective and the reasons why ineffective programs continue.

Methods

Eight state health departments (SHDs) were selected to participate in telephone-administered qualitative interviews about decision-making around ending or continuing programs. States were selected based on geographic representation and on their level of mis-implementation (low and high) categorized from our previous national survey. Forty-four SHD chronic disease staff participated in interviews, which were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were consensus coded, and themes were identified and summarized. This paper presents two sets of themes, related to (1) what makes a program ineffective and (2) why ineffective programs continue to be implemented according to SHD staff.

Results

Participants considered programs ineffective if they were not evidence-based or if they did not fit well within the population; could not be implemented well due to program restraints or a lack of staff time and resources; did not reach those who could most benefit from the program; or did not show the expected program outcomes through evaluation. Practitioners described several reasons why ineffective programs continued to be implemented, including concerns about damaging the relationships with partner organizations, the presence of program champions, agency capacity, and funding restrictions.

Conclusions

The continued implementation of ineffective programs occurs due to a number of interrelated organizational, relational, human resources, and economic factors. Efforts should focus on preventing mis-implementation since it limits public health agencies’ ability to conduct evidence-based public health, implement evidence-based programs effectively, and reduce the high burden of chronic diseases. The use of evidence-based decision-making in public health agencies and supporting adaptation of programs to improve their fit may prevent mis-implementation. Future work should identify effective strategies to reduce mis-implementation, which can optimize public health practice and improve population health.
Gel express: a novel frugal method quantifies gene relative expression in conventional RT-PCR
Authors: Hazman Mohamed
Published: January 2022

Background

Real-time PCR system is a valuable scientific mainstream needed for quantifying specific gene expression. Nevertheless, compared with conventional PCR, the real-time PCR system is extremely expensive and not affordable for limited or mid-budget research laboratories. Here, a novel, doable and low-cost recipe (referred to as gel express) is developed to quantify gene expression using conventional RT-PCR assay. The novelty of the gel express method is based on replacing crossing point (CP) values with integrated density (IntDen) values of PCR amplicon bands in real-time PCR regular mathematical formulas.

Results

In this work, gene expression profiles of two different rice stress-marker genes (OsCYP94C2a and OsLOX8) were quantified in response to mechanical wounding at different time points (0, 30, 60, and 150 min). In the gel express method, the free software ImageJ was employed to measure integrated density (IntDen) values of PCR amplicon bands in agarose gel images. IntDen values were then used instead of crossing point (CP) values according to the following modified formula: [EIntDen(ref)/EIntDen(target)]sample ÷ [EIntDen(ref)/EIntDen(target)]control. Gene relative expression profiles (dynamic expression pattern) quantified by gel express method in both genes were highly comparable with real-time RT-PCR. R2 values were 0.9976 and 0.9975 in OsCYP94C2a and OsLOX, respectively. PCR amplification efficiency (E) for all studied genes could be calculated depending on IntDen values through experimentally designed calibration curves. PCR amplification efficiencies with all studied genes obtained by gel express were all in the accepted range. For better-visualized PCR amplicons thus detectable biological effects between treatments, the number of PCR cycles applied in gel express method (IntCyc) was experimentally estimated to be 29 cycles.

Conclusions

Gel express is a novel, cost-effective and feasible recipe for quantifying gene relative expression in conventional RT-PCR. The expression pattern quantified by gel express is highly comparable and fits the expression data revealed by the used real-time PCR system.
Neuroprotective effect of hesperidin and its combination with coenzyme Q10 on an animal model of ketamine-induced psychosis: behavioral changes, mitochondrial dysfunctions, and oxidative stress
Authors: Kumar Naresh , Yadav Monu , Kumar Anil , Kadian Monika , Kumar Sunil
Published: January 2022

Background

Psychosis is a complex mental illness divided by positive symptoms, negative symptoms, and cognitive decline. Clinically available medicines are associated with some serious side effects which limit their use. Treatment with flavonoids has been associated with delayed onset and development, decreased risk, or increased improvement of various neuropsychiatric disorders including psychosis with negligible side effects.
Therefore, the present study was aimed to investigate the protective effects of hesperidin (flavonoid) alone or its combination with coenzyme Q10 against ketamine-induced psychotic symptoms in mice.

Results

Ketamine (50 mg/kg, i.p.) was given for 21 days to induce psychosis in Laca mice of either sex. Locomotor activity and stereotypic behaviors, immobility duration (forced swim test), and increased transfer latency (elevated plus maze) were performed to test the effect of hesperidin (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, p.o.) and coenzyme Q10 (20 mg/kg, 40 mg/kg, p.o.) and combination of hesperidin + coenzyme Q10 followed by biochemical and mitochondrial complexes assays. For 21 days, ketamine (50 mg/kg, i.p.) administration significantly produced increased locomotor activity and stereotypic behaviors (positive symptoms), increased immobility duration (negative symptoms) and cognitive deficits (increases transfer latency) weakens oxidative defense and mitochondrial function. Further, 21 days’ administration of hesperidin and coenzyme Q10 significantly reversed the ketamine-induced psychotic behavioral changes and biochemical alterations and mitochondrial dysfunction in the discrete areas (prefrontal cortex and hippocampus) of mice brains. The potential effect of these drugs was comparable to olanzapine treatment. Moreover, the combination of hesperidin with coenzyme Q10 and or a combination of hesperidin + coenzyme Q10 + olanzapine treatment did not produce a significant effect compared to their per se effect in ketamine-treated animals.

Conclusions

The study revealed that hesperidin alone or in combination with coenzyme Q10 could reduce psychotic symptoms and improve mitochondrial functions and antioxidant systems in mice, suggesting neuroprotective effects against psychosis.
Efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma on graft uptake in myringoplasty: a single-blinded randomized control trial
Authors: Vignesh R. , Nirmal Coumare V. , Gopalakrishnan S. , Karthikeyan P.
Published: January 2022

Background and aim

Chronic otitis media is defined as a chronic inflammation of the middle ear cleft producing irreversible pathological changes. The myringoplasty aims at the reconstruction of the tympanic membrane using a graft material. Autologous platelet-rich plasma can be used along with the graft to have a successful outcome. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of autologous platelet-rich plasma on graft uptake in myringoplasty.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial with a sample size of 76 patients. All patients were above 18 and below 55 years of age diagnosed with chronic suppurative otitis media and were planned for myringoplasty. The participants were randomly allotted to two groups by block randomization (block of 4). Intra-operatively, group I (n=38) received platelet-rich plasma–soaked gel foam and group II (n=38) was taken as the control group who received saline-soaked gel foam and examined by a blinded examiner at the end of 1st and 3rd months.

Results

The mean air-bone gap reduction post-operatively in the platelet-rich plasma group was 8.68 ± 4.8 (P value 0.034) and 6.05 ± 4.05 in the control group. The improvement in pure-tone average in the platelet-rich plasma group (P = 0.009) is more than that in the control group. The graft uptake was higher among the platelet-rich plasma group than the control group both at 1st and 3rd months (P value 0.049) which were statistically significant.

Conclusion

The present study concludes that the usage of platelet-rich plasma in the conventional myringoplasty technique has improved the success rate of graft uptake and reduced the graft migration.

Trial registration

Clinical Trials Registry-India (ICMR-NIMS) CTRI/2020/04/024416. Date of registration: 01/04/2020. Date of enrolment of the first participant to the trial: 06/04/2020. URL of the trial registry: http://www.ctri.nic.in.

Highlights

Usage of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in conventional myringoplasty in underlay technique.

Assessment of graft uptake, percentage of perforation closure, and the audiological outcome.

Significant mean reduction of ABG in the PRP group.

Significant improvement in PTA average in the PRP group.

Graft uptake and percentage of perforation closure were higher in the PRP group and the control group.

PRP is also beneficial in revision cases.
Bronchial asthma control, quality of life, and psychiatric disorders vicious cycle: Asyut society point of view
Authors: Sadek Samiaa Hamdy , El-kholy Maha Mohamed , Mohammed Fareda Ahmed , El-Morshedy Reham Mohammed
Published: January 2022

Background

Poorly controlled bronchial asthma limits patients’ quality of life (QOL), the condition which may potentiate the development of psychiatric disorders. The aim of this study was the assessment of anxiety and depression in bronchial asthma patients, and their interrelation with both level of asthma control and quality of life in our society.

Results

This study included 102 bronchial asthma patients, and 50 healthy control individuals. Patients had poorer QOL, and higher anxiety and depression scores compared to healthy control, moreover these scores were higher in uncontrolled asthma patients compared to controlled group. Poor QOL, frequent hospital admissions, and poor asthma control were the predictors for psychiatric disorders.

Conclusion

Depression and anxiety are frequently encountered in patients with bronchial asthma in our society; poor symptom control, poor QOL, and frequent hospital admissions are the main predictors for these psychiatric disorders.
Clinical and sonographic evaluation of the diaphragm after plication in adults with unilateral eventration: a retrospective study
Authors: Abdel-Bary Mohamed , Rashad Alaa , Elgendy Hamed , Zaki Mohammed , Abdelhamid Mahmoud Youssef , Beshay Morris , Abdelaal Khaled Mohamed
Published: January 2022

Background

We aim to assess the role of diaphragm ultrasonography in evaluating the outcome of surgical diaphragmatic plication in adults with symptomatic unilateral diaphragmatic eventration.

Results

Forty patients with symptomatic unilateral diaphragmatic eventration underwent surgical diaphragmatic plication between 2015 and 2020. The etiology was idiopathic in 34 (85%) cases, and 37 (92.5%) of them were suffering from dyspnea. Diaphragm ultrasonography showed no diaphragmatic movement on the affected side in 10 (25%) patients and a paradoxical movement in 30 (75%) patients. Surgical diaphragmatic plication was done successfully in all cases. Postoperative complications were reported in 3 (7.5%) cases, with no mortality. There was a highly significant improvement in dyspnea at 1 week and 6 months follow-up. CXR showed a highly significant decrease in the mean height of eventration at 1 week 3.7 ± 1.2 cm (P < 0.001), and 6 months 2.6 ± 0.9 cm (P < 0.001), compared to preoperative values (10.1 ± 2.8 cm). diaphragm ultrasonography showed normal motility of the plicated cupola in all cases, and there was a highly significant decrease in the mean height of eventration at 1 week (3.1 ± 1.1 cm, P < 0.001), and 6 months (2.3 ± 0.5 cm, P < 0.001) compared to preoperative values (10.3 ± 2.2 cm). There was a highly significant increase in the diaphragm thickness at 1 week (2.7 ± 0.3 mm, P < 0.001), and 6 months (2.9 ± 0.2 mm, P < 0.001), compared to the preoperative value. There was a highly significant improvement in the degree of excursion 1 week (25 ± 4.3 mm, P < 0.001), and 6 months (28 ± 5.2 mm, P < 0.001), compared to the preoperative value (15 ± 6.2 mm). No fluid collection or surroundings organ injuries were detected. The mean FVC and FEV1 showed a highly significant improvement at 1 week (66.7 ± 6%, 78.2 ± 9.8%), and 6 months (68.8 ± 5.7%, 80.4 ± 10.3%), compared to the preoperative value (58.8 ± 8% and 70.9 ± 10.3%).

Conclusions

Surgical diaphragmatic plication is an effective and safe procedure that can be performed to treat symptomatic adults with unilateral diaphragmatic eventration. Diaphragm ultrasonography can be used as a simple bedside test to evaluate unilateral diaphragmatic eventration cases and their postoperative follow-up.
Lifethreatening tracheal obstruction in a child caused by nodular fasciitis: case presentation
Authors: Shieba Yusuf , Khairy Mahmoud , Elzouk Mohamed , Mansour Albaraa Ali
Published: January 2022

Background

Nodular fasciitis (NF) is a rare non-neoplastic inflammatory tumor and usually presents as a painless, rapidly growing subcutaneous soft tissue mass. The head and neck are relatively common locations for nodular fasciitis, particularly in children. NF in the trachea is rare and may evolve to a fatal condition, especially due to its rapidly growing nature that can cause life-threatening tracheal obstruction.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 5-year-old child with NF in the trachea and subtotal tracheal obstruction. Bronchoscopy and biopsy proved the diagnosis, and bronchoscopic excision of the tumor was performed.

Conclusions

NF is a rare airway tumor, occurring mostly in adults, and may presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms. Early detection of the lesion is essential to avoid life-threatening airway obstruction.
Combinatorial inhibition of BTK, PI3K-AKT and BRD4-MYC as a strategy for treatment of mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Vann Kendra R. , Pal Dhananjaya , Smith Audrey L. , Sahar Namood-e , Krishnaiah Maddeboina , El-Gamal Dalia , Kutateladze Tatiana G.
Published: January 2022

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma characterized by poor prognosis. The complexity of MCL pathogenesis arises from aberrant activities of diverse signaling pathways, including BTK, PI3K–AKT–mTOR and MYC-BRD4. Here, we report that MCL-related signaling pathways can be altered by a single small molecule inhibitor, SRX3305. Binding and kinase activities along with resonance changes in NMR experiments reveal that SRX3305 targets both bromodomains of BRD4 and is highly potent in inhibition of the PI3K isoforms α, γ and δ, as well as BTK and the drug-resistant BTK mutant. Preclinical investigations herein reveal that SRX3305 perturbs the cell cycle, promotes apoptosis in MCL cell lines and shows dose dependent anti-proliferative activity in both MCL and drug-resistant MCL cells. Our findings underscore the effectiveness of novel multi-action small molecule inhibitors for potential treatment of MCL.
Effects of Maths on the Move on Children’s Perspectives, Physical Activity, and Math Performance
Authors: Morris Jade Lynne , Archbold Victoria S. J. , Bond Suzanne J. , Daly-Smith Andy
Published: January 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the impact of a 6-wk “Maths on the Move” (MOTM) physically active learning program on primary school children’s physical activity (PA) levels and math performance.

Methods

This was a randomized controlled trial. Year 5 children’s PA was assessed using accelerometry for 5 consecutive school days at baseline and during the final intervention week (final sample: n = 97; mean age = 9.61 ± 0.29 yr; 52.6% female). Two math performance tests were used, one assessing mathematical content taught during MOTM and one assessing math’s fluency (Maths Addition and Subtractions, Speed and Accuracy Test). Both tests were conducted at baseline and after the intervention (week 7). Focus groups were conducted in week 7 with intervention children (n = 12), randomly choosing an even split of children classified with preintervention low or high PA levels.

Results

On average, during a typical 45- to 49-min MOTM lesson, children obtained an additional 5 min of moderate-to-vigorous PA and 5.7 min of light PA counteracted by a reduction of 9.5 min of time spent sedentary compared with children who remained in the classroom (control condition). The math attainment test performance significantly improved over time for children in the MOTM compared with the control (+6.1 vs +0.9, P ≤ 0.0001, d = 1.507). No significant improvements were found in the Maths Addition and Subtractions, Speed and Accuracy Test total score. Seven emerging themes were derived from the child focus groups. Children felt the MOTM sessions resulted in social and environmental improvements, which improved learning during the sessions. Children described the MOTM sessions as enjoyable, fun, engaging, and invigorating—resulting in positive associations to learning and activity.

Conclusions

Collectively, the findings identify that the MOTM program improves pupil’s PA levels and academic outcomes and identifies pupil’s willingness, enjoyment, and engagement.
Effect of Neural Therapy on shoulder dysfunction and pain in supraspinatus tendinopathy
Authors: Bashan Ibrahim , Yasa Ozturk Gulsah
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To investigate the effect of 1% procaine injection, which is used in neural therapy, on shoulder pain and dysfunction in patients diagnosed with supraspinatus tendinopathy.

Methods: The Range of Motion values, Visual Analog Scale and the QuickDASH Scale scores of 70 patients, who were diagnosed with musculus supraspinatus tendinitis based on magnetic resonance imaging findings, were analyzed. The data of the scales obtained before neural therapy and at the follow-up visit at four weeks after the end of therapy were compared, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: After neural therapy, a statistically significant increase was observed in Range of Motion values and there was a statistically significant decrease in both the Visual Analog Scale and QuickDASH score averages.

Conclusion: This is one of the rare studies showing the effects of neural therapy application on shoulder pain severity and dysfunction in patients with supraspinatus tendinitis who are resistant to medical therapy.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4823

How to cite this:Bashan I, Ozturk GY. Effect of Neural Therapy on shoulder dysfunction and pain in supraspinatus tendinopathy. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4823

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 effectiveness of tamsulosin hydrochloride with terazosin combination therapy for chronic prostatitis Type-III b
Authors: Duan Bin , Wang Xinxi
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To study the therapeutic effects of combined tamsulosin hydrochloride and terazosin treatment for patients with chronic prostatitis Type-III b.

Methods: This study involved 180 patients with chronic prostatitis Type-III b treated between January 2018 and December 2020 conducted at Nanhua Hospital Affiliated to Nanhua University. Patients were randomly divided into two equal groups: one receiving oral terazosin hydrochloride tablets only (control group), and one orally receiving both tamsulosin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets and terazosin hydrochloride tablets (observation group). Outcome measurements included symptom scoring, inflammatory cytokine levels, as well as white blood cell and lecithin body counts in the prostatic fluid.

Results: After 30 days of treatment, the observation group showed greater treatment effectiveness (86.67% vs. 73.33%, P<0.05). QLS, USS, PS, and NIH-CPSI symptom scores were lower in the observation group than the control group (P<0.05). No differences in adverse event distribution and incidence were noted. EPS IL-2 increased more in the observation group, while PGE-2, MIP-1α, and MIP-2 decreased more in the observation group. WBC levels decreased more in the observation group, while lecithin body levels increased more in the observation group.

Conclusion: The combination of tamsulosin hydrochloride and terazosin for the treatment of patients with chronic prostatitis Type-III b has a significant effect. This approach reduced patient symptoms, lowered inflammatory biomarkers, and generally improved quality of life. This approach appears to have clinical value worthy of future investigation.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4931

How to cite this:Duan B, Wang X. The effectiveness of tamsulosin hydrochloride with terazosin combination therapy for chronic prostatitis Type-III b. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.4931

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.
Multidisciplinary cooperative first aid model for the treatment of patients with pelvic and multiple fractures
Authors: Han Yun , Peng Ganggang , Liu Lijun , Xie Xiaohua
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To retrospectively evaluate a multidisciplinary cooperative first aid model for the treatment of patients with pelvic and multiple fractures in the emergency department.

Methods: The records of patients with pelvic fractures complicated with multiple fractures treated in our hospital from February 2020 to April 2021 were selected, of which 34 patients received conventional trauma first aid mode (control group) and 34 patients received multidisciplinary joint first aid mode (study group). We compared pelvic function (Majeed functional score) and fracture reduction outcomes, as well as serum inflammatory factor levels and complication rates after treatment between the two groups.

Results: The Majeed score in the study group (90.15 ± 6.83) was higher than that in the control group (75. 47 ± 5.35), and the differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). The value for combined excellent and good rates of fracture reduction in the study group (85.29%, 29/34) was significantly higher than that in the control group (58.82%, 20/34), and the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). We found similar levels of TNF-a and IL-6 between the two groups at admission (P>0.05); however, the serum levels of TNF-a and IL-6 in the study group were lower than those in the control group on the fifth day after admission, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05 or P<0.01). The incidence of complications in the study group (17.64%, 6/34) was significantly lower than that in the control group (61.76%, 21/34), the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The multidisciplinary cooperative first aid model for the treatment of patients with pelvic and multiple fractures can effectively shorten the treatment time, increase the excellent functional rehabilitation rate, inhibit the release of inflammatory factors, and reduce the incidence of complications (such as infections), when compared to the conventional trauma emergency system.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5014

How to cite this:Han Y, Peng G, Liu L, Xie X. Multidisciplinary cooperative first aid model for the treatment of patients with pelvic and multiple fractures. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5014

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.
Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein Ratio can predict coronary artery calcification
Authors: Wang Beilei , Hua Jinsheng , Ma Likun
Published: January 2022

Objectives: We assessed the TG/HDL-C ratio as a predictor for the presence of coronary artery calcifications (CACs).

Methods: We collected demographic characteristics (age and gender), physical examination (height, weight, BMI, SBP, DBP), comorbidities, medication use, and laboratory variables Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein (TG, HDL-C, TG/HDL-C, UA, TBG, 25-OH-VitD3); and we used coronary angiography to determine the presence of CACs. We performed univariate and multivariate analyses to evaluate the correlation between the TG/HDL-C ratio and CACs and established a predictive model.

Results: CAC was present in 121 patients (25.80%). The levels of TG and TG/HDL-C ratio in the CAC group were higher than those in the non-CAC group, while the level of HDL-C in the CAC group was lower than that in the non-CAC group. The univariate analysis showed that the TG/HDL-C ratio was associated with CAC (OR, 0.021; 95% CI, 0.008 to 0.052; P<0.001), and the multivariate analysis indicated that the ratio was an independent risk factor for CAC (OR, 4.088; 95% CI, 2.787-5.996; P<0.001). Using the ratio to establish a prediction model, the area under the ROC curve was 0.814 (95% CI, 0.775-0.853; P<0.001), suggesting that the TG/HDL-C ratio has a high diagnostic efficiency. The diagnostic threshold was 1.037, and the corresponding sensitivity and specificity were 89.3% and 60.5%, respectively.

Conclusion: The Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein TG/HDL-C ratio is an independent risk factor for CAC with good diagnostic efficacy.

Abbreviations: TG: Triglycerides, HDL-C: High-Density Lipoprotein, CAC: Coronary Artery Calcifications, BMI: Body Mass Index, SBP: Systolic Blood Pressure, DBP: Diastolic Blood Pressure, UA: Uric Acid, FBG: Fasting Blood Glucose, 25-OH-VitD3: 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3, ACEI: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors, ARB: Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, CCB: Calcium Channel Blockers, ARNI: Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor, CAG: Coronary Angiography, AUCROC: Area Under the Receiver Operating Curve.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5290

How to cite this:Wang B, Hua J, Ma L. Triglyceride to High-Density Lipoprotein Ratio can predict coronary artery calcification. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5290

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 α-SMA and ß-catenin levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and severity of pneumonia
Authors: Li Xiaoying , Jiang Zinan
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To assess the association of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) α-SMA and ß-catenin levels and the severity of pneumonia.

Methods: The records of patients with severe pneumonia treated in our hospital from June 2019 to June 2020 were selected. The clinical outcome was observed within 10 days. For the purpose of analysis, patients were divided into two groups according to the outcome, 47 cases in the improvement group and 39 cases in the deterioration group. The intubation time, mechanical ventilation time and APACHE II score 10 days after admission were compared between the two groups; We assessed pulmonary infections using the clinical pulmonary infection score(CPIS). The levels of α-SMA and ß-catenin in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at different time points were compared and analyzed, to analyze the association between the levels and the CPIS.

Results: The APACHE II score in the improvement group were lower than those in the deterioration group (P<0.05). The expressions of α-SMA and ß-catenin in the BALF of patients in the improvement group were significantly lower than those of patients in the deterioration group on day 1, 3, and 7 (P<0.05); and the expressions of α-SMA and ß-catenin in the BALF of patients in the improvement group decreased with time, while those of patients in the deterioration group increased gradually with time(P<0.05). The expressions of α-SMA and ß-catenin in patients with CPIS>6 was significantly higher than those in patients with CPI≤6(P<0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that the levels of α-SMA and ß-catenin in BALF were positively correlated with the CPIS.

Conclusion: The levels of α-SMA and ß-catenin in BALF are closely associated with the clinical condition of patients with severe pneumonia; the levels are positively associated with the severity of the disease and they increase with symptomatic worsening.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5329

How to cite this:Li X, Jiang Z. Correlation between α-SMA and ß-catenin levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and severity of pneumonia. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5329

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.
A retrospective analysis of emergency hysterectomy intervention strategy in obstetrics
Authors: Fang Zhuanji , Zhang Huale , Zheng Shuisen , Weng Lingling , Yan Jianying
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To investigate the indications of obstetric emergency hysterectomy and analyze the clinical effects of subtotal hysterectomy and total hysterectomy.

Methods: We included 247 hospitalized women who had undergone abdominal hysterectomy due to obstetric reasons in Fujian Province Maternity and Child Health Hospital (a provincial class-A hospital) and Ningde People’s Hospital (a primary Class-B hospital) between January 2002 and December 2018. We identified surgical indications and clinical characteristics of the patients. Furthermore, the patients from Fujian Provincial Maternity and Child Health Hospital were subdivided into subtotal hysterectomy group and total hysterectomy group to examine general operation conditions, and postoperative complications.

Results: The main surgical indications for emergency obstetric hysterectomy in Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital were placental implantation (49.6%) and uterine weakness (31.9%), while uterine weakness (37.5%) was the most important indication in Ningde People’s Hospital. No differences were found in operation time, hospitalization time, intraoperative blood loss, postpartum blood loss, and intraoperative fresh frozen plasma transfusion between the subtotal hysterectomy group and the total hysterectomy group. Postoperative test parameters, including postoperative prothrombin time (PT), thrombin time (TT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), hemoglobin (HGB), and hematocrit (HCT), were not significantly different between the two groups. No significant difference was noted in postoperative vesicoureteral injury, pelvic hematoma, infection, and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) incidence, but renal failure incidence was different (P=0.040).

Conclusion: The treatment effect of subtotal hysterectomies for the cases without placenta accreta and placenta previa was similar in the two hospitals. There is no statistically significant difference in therapeutic effect between total hysterectomy and subtotal hysterectomy.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5335

How to cite this:Fang Z, Zhang H, Zheng S, Weng L, Yan J. A retrospective analysis of emergency hysterectomy intervention strategy in obstetrics. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(3):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.3.5335

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.
Efficacy and safety of fenfluramine in the treatment of Dravet syndrome - literature review
Authors: Stefaniak Martyna , Pietrzak Zofia , Dzikowski Piotr , Nowicka Emilia , Obel Michał , Piecewicz-Szczęsna Halina
Published: January 2022

Dravet Syndrome is a severe, drug-resistant, and rare epileptiform disorder that is typically presented in the first year of life in an otherwise healthy child. It is characterized by prolonged seizures that are often resistant to current anti-epileptic drug regimens, which made them poorly controlled, and almost 50% of patients experience at least four tonic-clonic seizures per month. There are three new medicines: stiripentol, cannabidiol, and fenfluramine, with documented efficacy and safety as adjunctive therapies in pharmacoresistant Dravet syndrome treatment.

This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of fenfluramine in the treatment of Dravet syndrome. Our study material consisted of publications, which were found in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase databases. In order to find the proper publications, the search has been conducted with the use of a combination of keywords like: “fenfluramine”, “Dravet syndrome”, “epilepsy treatment”, “Dravet syndrome pediatric patients”. The first step was to find proper publications from the last 10 years. The second step was to carry out an overview of the found publications.

Results of mentioned studies proved that in Dravet syndrome, fenfluramine provided a significantly greater reduction in convulsive seizure frequency compared with placebo. No patient developed valvular heart disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension, the side effects that occurred during its use were mild and the drug was generally well-tolerated. The bioequivalence and tolerability of single oral doses of fenfluramine hydrochloride oral solution in the fed and fasted states support drug administration without regard to meals. Fenfluramine may represent a new important treatment option for Dravet syndrome.
Influence of latent iron deficiency on cognitive abilities in students
Authors: Sheikh Ali Dani , Babienko V. , Kobolev E.
Published: January 2022

The aim of the study is to assess the impact of latent iron deficiency on students' cognitive abilities. Material and methods. The study was conducted during 2018-2021 at the Department of Hygiene and Medical Ecology of Odessa National Medical University. A survey of 188 medical students aged 18-20 was conducted using a screening survey. Estimation of the qualitative content of iron compounds in the diet was performed by a calculation method using the USDA / FDA database. Persons with probable iron deficiency were examined for hemoglobin, erythrocytes, hematocrit (general clinical blood test) and serum ferritin. Additionally, the cognitive abilities of people with latent iron deficiency were assessed using MoSA, TMT, GPB, Schulte tables and TAS-20. As a control, 30 students aged 18-20 years who showed no signs of latent or overt iron deficiency were interviewed. Statistical processing was performed by methods of variance and correlation anamnesis using the software Statistica 13.0 (TIBCO, USA). Results. When evaluating diets, probable iron deficiency was identified in 69 (36.7%) students surveyed. A significant number of students reported signs of iron deficiency, namely general weakness (27 or 14.4%), increased fatigue (30 cases or 15.9%), pale skin and mucous membranes (6 or 3.2%), drowsiness (8 or 4.3%), dry mouth (11 or 5.9%), brittle hair (4 or 2.1%), bleeding gums (3 or 1.6%). In isolated cases, hyposmia, dysgeusia and dysphagia have occurred. Probable iron deficiency was found at the previous stage of the study in 29 (15.4%) patients, they subsequently underwent verifying laboratory tests. In the analysis of the obtained data, the diagnosis of mild iron deficiency anemia was confirmed in 2 (6.9%) girls. Latent iron deficiency was identified in 16 (55.2%) students, among whom girls predominated (10 people or 62.5%). Subsequent studies have shown that a significant number of students with latent iron deficiency showed moderate signs of decreased cognition. Conclusions: 1. The frequency of latent iron deficiency in the surveyed contingent was 8.5%, with an absolute predominance of girls (62.5%). 2. Latent iron deficiency in student youth can be manifested by cognitive impairment, and therefore affect academic performance. 3. The most pronounced correlation was found for ferritin content and severity of alexithymia (r = -0.61).
The Determination of Indoor Air Quality and Thermal Comfort with Different Space and Ventilation in the Teracce and Bungalow Houses
Authors: Izati Rasli Nur Baitul , Ramli Nor Azam , Ismail Mohd Rodzi
Published: January 2022

This study observed the influence of different ventilation, indoor and outdoor activities (i.e., cooking, praying, sweeping, gathering, and exhaust from motorcycle) between a bungalow house (i.e., stack and cross ventilation applications) and a terrace house (i.e., one-sided ventilation application). We appraised the indoor air quality (IAQ) and thermal comfort. We monitored the indoor air contaminants (i.e., TVOC, CO, CH2O, PM10, O3, and CO2) and specific physical parameters (i.e., T, RH, and AS) for four days in the morning (i.e., 6.00 a.m. – 9.00 a.m.), morning-evening (i.e., 11.00 a.m. – 2.00 p.m.), and evening-night (i.e., 5.00 p.m. – 8.00 p.m.) sessions. The results found that cooking activities are the major activities that contributed to the increase of the TVOC, CO, PM10, O3, and CO2 concentrations in the bungalow and terrace houses. However, IAQ exceeded the Industry Code of Practice on IAQ (ICOP) limit in the terrace house. The bungalow house applies stack and cross ventilation, double area, and a long pathway of indoor air contaminants movements. Besides that, the results indicated that cooking activities worsen the ventilation system because CO2 exceeded the ICOP limit on Day 2 at 74.1 % (evening-night session) and Day 3 at 13.2 % (morning session), 11% (morning-evening session), and 50.1 % (evening-night session). Moreover, the combination of mechanical (i.e., opened all fans) and natural ventilation (i.e., opened all doors, windows, and fans) is the best application in the house without a cooking ventilator with lower indoor air movement. Furthermore, the temperatures exceeding the ICOP limit of 23-26 °C for both bungalow and terrace houses could be lower indoor air movement, which is less than the ICOP limit of 0.15-0.5 m/s and high outdoor air temperature. Therefore, it is prudent to have an efficient ventilation system for acceptable indoor air quality and thermal comfort in the family house.
Performance of Tree Species on Waterlogged Sites of Canal Command Area: A Case Study of Bargi Dam, Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh)
Authors: Jain Avinash , Gupta Dheeraj , Banerjee Saikat , Naik Ramu
Published: January 2022

Bio-drainage is removal of excess soil water through bio-energy of fast-growing tree species having higher transpiration rate. Seven tree species viz. Albizia lebbek, Albizia procera, Acacia nilotica, Dalbergia sissoo, Eucalyptus tereticornis, FRI-4 and FRI-5 clones of Eucalyptus hybrid, Terminalia arjuna and Pongamia pinnata were evaluated for their performance through growth characteristics and biomass studies by planting on waterlogged sites on the bank of Left Bank Canal (LBC) of Bargi command area, Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh state (India). Eucalyptus hybrid, followed by Pongamia pinnata exhibited maximum height and biomass accumulation and its allocation to leaves and branches after four years of plantation,attributing the most desirable species for reclaiming waterlogged sites along canal command areas with similar edaphic and climatic conditions.