bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of diarrhea in end-stage renal disease patients initiating hemodialysis
Authors: Oba Miho , Minakuchi Hitoshi , Yoshida Tadashi
Published: July 2021

Background

Diarrhea is one of the symptoms occasionally seen in patients initiating hemodialysis. When they have diarrhea, they need several additional cares for defecation during the hemodialysis sessions and for infection control at dialysis facilities.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the prevalence and the characteristics of the patients with diarrhea initiating hemodialysis. Data were collected from medical records.

Results

Of 243 patients who initiated hemodialysis therapy, 46 patients (19%) had diarrhea. The age, gender, and etiology of end-stage renal disease did not differ between the patients with diarrhea and those without diarrhea. Body weight in the patients with diarrhea was lighter than those without diarrhea. The prevalence of concomitant diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, malignancies, and diabetes, was not different between the groups, whereas the patients with diarrhea were complicated more frequently with infectious diseases. Antibiotics and steroids had been used more frequently in the patients with diarrhea (59% and 26%, respectively) than those without diarrhea (10% and 10%, respectively). Inflammatory markers, such as white blood cell numbers, C-reactive protein levels, and body temperature, were significantly higher in the patients with diarrhea. Serum levels of total protein, albumin, and creatinine were significantly lower in the patients with diarrhea, while urea nitrogen levels did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion

Results of the present study showed, for the first time, that 19% of the patients initiating hemodialysis had diarrhea and suggest that incident hemodialysis patients with infectious diseases and those under treatment with antibiotics and/or steroids are high-risk for diarrhea.
Requirement of artificial intelligence technology awareness for thoracic surgeons
Authors: Darbari Anshuman , Kumar Krishan , Darbari Shubhankar , Patil Prashant L.
Published: July 2021

Background

We have recently witnessed incredible interest in computer-based, internet web-dependent mechanisms and artificial intelligence (AI)-dependent technique emergence in our day-to-day lives. In the recent era of COVID-19 pandemic, this nonhuman, machine-based technology has gained a lot of momentum.

Main body of the abstract

The supercomputers and robotics with AI technology have shown the potential to equal or even surpass human experts’ accuracy in some tasks in the future. Artificial intelligence (AI) is prompting massive data interweaving with elements from many digital sources such as medical imaging sorting, electronic health records, and transforming healthcare delivery. But in thoracic surgical and our counterpart pulmonary medical field, AI’s main applications are still for interpretation of thoracic imaging, lung histopathological slide evaluation, physiological data interpretation, and biosignal testing only. The query arises whether AI-enabled technology-based or autonomous robots could ever do or provide better thoracic surgical procedures than current surgeons but it seems like an impossibility now.

Short conclusion

This review article aims to provide information pertinent to the use of AI to thoracic surgical specialists. In this review article, we described AI and related terminologies, current utilisation, challenges, potential, and current need for awareness of this technology.
Association of Kidney Function With NMR-Quantified Lipids, Lipoproteins, and Metabolic Measures in Mexican Adults
Authors: Aguilar-Ramirez Diego , Alegre-Díaz Jesus , Herrington William G , Staplin Natalie , Ramirez-Reyes Raúl , Gnatiuc Louisa , Hill Michael , Romer Frederik , Torres Jason , Trichia Eirini , Wade Rachel , Collins Rory , Emberson Jonathan R , Kuri-Morales Pablo , Tapia-Conyer Roberto
Published: July 2021

Context

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes are associated with dyslipidemia, metabolic abnormalities, and atherosclerotic risk. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy provides much more detail on lipoproteins than traditional assays.

Methods

In about 38 000 participants from the Mexico City Prospective Study, aged 35 to 84 years and not using lipid-lowering medication, NMR spectroscopy quantified plasma concentrations of lipoprotein particles, their lipidic compositions, and other metabolic measures. Linear regression related low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) to each NMR measure after adjustment for confounders and for multiplicity. Analyses were done separately for those with and without diabetes.

Results

Among the 38 081 participants (mean age 52 years, 64% women), low eGFR was present for 4.8% (306/6403) of those with diabetes and 1.2% (365/31 678) of those without diabetes. Among both those with and without diabetes, low eGFR was significantly associated with higher levels of 58 NMR measures, including apolipoprotein B (Apo-B), the particle numbers of most Apo-B containing lipoproteins, the cholesterol and triglycerides carried in these lipoproteins, several fatty acids, total cholines and phosphatidylcholine, citrate, glutamine, phenylalanine, β-OH-butyrate, and the inflammatory measure glycoprotein-A, and significantly lower levels of 13 NMR measures, including medium and small high-density lipoprotein particle measures, very low-density lipoprotein particle size, the ratio of saturated:total fatty acids, valine, tyrosine, and aceto-acetate.

Conclusions

In this Mexican population with high levels of adiposity and diabetes, low kidney function was associated with widespread alterations in lipidic and metabolic profiles, both in those with and without diabetes. These alterations may help explain the higher atherosclerotic risk experienced by people with CKD.
Outcome of proximal femur shaft fractures in school going children treated with locking compression plates
Authors: Shah Faaiz Ali , Ali Mian Amjad , . Naeemullah
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To determine the clinical and radiological outcome of proximal femur shaft fractures in school going children treated with locking compression plates (LCP).

Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in Orthopaedic Division Lady Ready Reading Hospital Peshawar from 25th June 2018 to 25th September 2020. Children of either gender and age 6 to 12 years old with subtrochanteric and proximal one third femur factures fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled in this study. Open reduction and internal fixation with 4.5 mm narrow locking compression plates (LCP) were done in all. Post operative clinical outcome was evaluated by using Flynn scoring system and graded as excellent, satisfactory and poo results. Radiological assessment of fracture union was done through anteroposterior (AP) and lateral X-ray radiographs.

Results: A total of 60 children with mean age 9.01±1.61 SD (range 6 to 12 years) were included in our study. Oblique fractures were present in 23(38.3%) children, spiral in 20(33.3%), transverse in 11(18.3%) and comminuted in 6 (10%) children. The radiological union time was 13.3±1.2 weeks (range 9.4 to 18 weeks). Majority (88.3%, n=53) of children had excellent clinical outcome according to Flynn’s scoring system while satisfactory outcome was noted in 7(11.6%) children. No cases of delayed union, mal union, nonunion and implant failure was reported.

Conclusion: The results of our study indicated that proximal femoral shaft fractures in school going children treated with locking compression plates had excellent clinical and radiological outcome. We therefore recommend locking compression plate as the implant of choice to fix proximal femoral shaft fractures in school going children.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.3938

How to cite this:Shah FA, Ali MA, Naeemullah. Outcome of proximal femur shaft fractures in school going children treated with locking compression plates. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1353-1358. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.3938

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.
Clinical outcome of right ventricle outflow tract management for repair of Tetralogy of Fallot with three contemporary surgical strategies
Authors: Waqar Tariq , Ansari M. Zubair Ahmed , Khan Kamran
Published: July 2021

Objective: To compare the early operative outcome of TOF repair with three contemporary repair strategies of RVOTO repair i.e. TAP, Mono-cusp construction (MC) in TAP and pulmonary valve repair.

Methods: Study is performed at Punjab Institute of Cardiology, Lahore from May 2016 to April 2020. Retrospective analysis of data was performed for patient who underwent TOF repair by three different strategies of RVOT repairs during TOF surgery based on z scoring for pulmonary valve annulus. Group-I underwent trans-annular patch repair, while Group-II and III underwent Mono-cusp repair with autologous pericardium and pulmonary valve repair respectively. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Pearson Chi-Square (PCS) statistics were used to compare the three groups for numeric and categorical variables respectively. Post-hoc t-test and Bonferroni correction were performed for numeric data to compare two groups with each other. Chi-square test was used to perform comparison between groups for categorial variables.

Results: ANOVA for aortic cross clamp time, total CPB time, Post-operative mechanical ventilation time, ICU stay and hospital stay showed statistical difference among all three group with p-value less than 0.05 however post hoc T-test showed this variation is limited to post-operative mechanical ventilation only when groups compared with each other. PCS showed there was difference for incidence of difficult weaning from CPB when all three groups compared while there was no difference in operative mortality with p-value of 0.15. However, Group-II comparison with Group-I showed that weaning from CPB was superior in-Group-II with p-value of 0.016. Group-III showed the best statistics for all operative outcome variables among all three groups. Comparison of incidence of post-operative moderate pulmonary regurgitation before discharge between Group-II and Group-III showed significant difference with p-value of 0.0052.

Conclusion: PV repair strategy should be employed for RVOT repair of TOF whenever feasible. MC repair showed fewer hours of postoperative mechanical ventilation and higher incidence of easy weaning from CPB when compared to TAP, however its impacts over ICU stay, Hospital stay and operative mortality is not profound in our TOF repair population.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.3961

How to cite this:Waqar T, Ansari MZA, Khan K. Clinical outcome of right ventricle outflow tract management for repair of Tetralogy of Fallot with three contemporary surgical strategies. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1313-1318. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.3961

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.
Higher frequency of Congenital Hypothyroidism among Newborns, District Dera Ghazi Khan-Punjab, Pakistan: A case control study
Authors: Khokhar Abdul Rehman , Cheema Abdul Majeed
Published: July 2021

Objectives: The study objective was to establish serum TSH cut off value for diagnosis of new case of congenital hypothyroidism and to estimate frequency of Congenital Neonatal Hypothyroidism.

Methods: A case control study was conducted at DHQ Teaching Hospital of DG Khan Medical College, Dera Ghazi Khan during 2020 to establish reference values of TSH and T4 for study population. Sample size was calculated by classical sample size calculation formula Cochran WG 1977 sampling technique. A group of 30 neonates of normal, healthy, euthyroid mothers was taken as Neonatal Control Group to estimate levels of TSH and total T4 in normal neonates. Neonatal Study Group was neonates of hypothyroid mothers (n=75). Simple random sampling technique was applied.

Results: Mean (mean ± SD) Serum TSH levels of Neonatal Control Group were found to be 3.58 ± 03.09 mIU/l. Mean Serum TSH levels among Neonatal Study Group were found to be 6.88 ±12.95 mIU/l and serum total T4 were found to be 16.78 ± 6.96ug/dl on 3-7 days of life. Serum total T4 (mean ± SD) levels of Neonatal Control Group were 9.73 ± 03.39 ug/dl. Neonatal serum TSH more than 15mIU/l was taken as cut off value to diagnose a case of CNH. So, frequency of CNH was 8% among neonates of study group.

Conclusions: The TSH cut off value of >15mIU/l was established for case detection of CNH. Our findings of CNH in district Dera Ghazi Khan (8%) are the highest frequency of CNH reported so far in Pakistan.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4086

How to cite this:Khokhar AR, Cheema AM. Higher frequency of Congenital Hypothyroidism among Newborns, District Dera Ghazi Khan-Punjab, Pakistan: A case control study. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1419-1424. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4086

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 safety and number of post-operative visits of patients in convenient day versus conventional first day follow-up after phacoemulsification
Authors: Kamal Zahid , Jamil Ahmad Zeeshan , Khokhar Hira Shuja , Huma Farah
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To compare safety and number of post-operative visits of patients in convenient day versus conventional first day follow-up after phacoemulsification

Methods: This observational cohort study was conducted in Department of ophthalmology, Sahiwal Medical College, Sahiwal from November 2019 to August 2020. There were 600 patients who underwent uncomplicated phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation. Patients were allocated into two groups. Group-I comprised of patients with convenient day follow-up during the first post-operative week. Group-II comprised of the patients with conventional first day follow-up. Rate of complications, number of visits during the first month and final visual acuity were recorded.

Results: In Group-I post-operative complications were noted in 12.67% cases on first follow up visit and in 2.67% cases on first month follow up visit. In Group-II post-operative complication were noted in 22 % cases on first follow up visit and in 4% cases on first month follow up visit. Common postoperative complications were corneal oedema, anterior segment intraocular inflammation, residual lens matter in anterior chamber and intraocular lens subluxation. There was no difference in presenting and postoperative visual acuity between the two groups. Mean follow-up visits were 2.23 ± 0.42 in Group-I and 3.55 ± 0.50 in Group-II.

Conclusion: Convenient day follow-up is as safe as conventional first day follow-up. Convenient day follow-up significantly reduces the number of post-operative visits. This would translate into cost reduction both for the patients and the health care facility.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4121

How to cite this:Kamal Z, Jamil AZ, Khokhar HS, Huma F. Comparison of safety and number of post-operative visits of patients in convenient day versus conventional first day follow-up after phacoemulsification. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1440-1444.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4121

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.
Perceptions of Lady Health Workers and their trainers about their curriculum for implementing the interventions identified for Essential Package of Health Services for Pakistan
Authors: Sohail Shaherzad , Wajid Gohar , Chaudhry Saima
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives: Lady Health Workers (LHWs) form the central cadre of community-based health workers in Pakistan. They must be trained well for implementing community-based interventions identified for Essential Package of Health Services (EPHS) by the government of Pakistan. This study aims to explore the perceptions of LHWs and their trainers about their existing curriculum and identifies gaps in the curriculum for effective implementation of the interventions identified in EPHS.

Methods: In this qualitative study, perceptions of 45 LHWs were taken through focus group discussions and their six trainers were interviewed as well. In addition, three experts analyzed the LHWs training curriculum to identify its relevance with achieving the community-based interventions as described in the EPHS by the government of Pakistan.

Results: Thematic analysis of the information gathered by the interviews of trainers and focus group discussions from LHWs, was performed. Most participants were satisfied with their curriculum but suggested the addition of topics on emerging health issues, neonatal resuscitation, mental health and rehabilitation. Participants felt a deficiency in practical skills, communication skills and leadership skills. Experts identified gap in the current LHWs curriculum to address the recently identified community-based interventions.

Conclusions: The current curriculum of LHWs need reforms to make it compatible with Essential Package of Health Services for Pakistan. The suggested areas for improvement include knowledge of emerging health issues, neonatal resuscitation, adolescent problems, mental health and rehabilitative services.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4175

How to cite this:Sohail S, Wajid G, Chaudhry S. Perceptions of Lady Health Workers and their trainers about their curriculum for implementing the interventions identified for Essential Package of Health Services for Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1295-1301.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4175

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.
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy and associated adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes
Authors: Khaskheli Dr. Meharunnissa , Baloch Dr Shahla , Baloch Dr Aneela Sheeba , Shah Syed Ghulam Sarwar
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To observe the effects of vaginal discharge during pregnancy on maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods: This observational study was undertaken form June 2018 to 31 May 2019 period in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences hospital Jamshoro Unit IV. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 85 pregnant women. All the pregnant women with vaginal discharge were included in the study, while the women with bleeding and other medical disorders during pregnancy were excluded. Data was analyzed.

Results: Women’s mean age as 27.4 (±4.7) years and most were 28-35 weeks pregnant (n=29, 34%) and primigravida (n=35, 41%). Seventy six women (89%) presented with vaginal discharge while nine women (11%) reported no vaginal discharge. Of those with vaginal discharge,53 women (69.7%) had vaginal infections: bacterial vaginosis (n=21, 39.6%), vaginal candidiasis (n=17, 32.1%) and vaginal trichomoniasis (n=15, 28.3%). Pathological vaginal discharge (PVD) was associated with vaginal irritation (n=30, p<0.0001), vaginal pain (n=50, p<0.0001), fever (n=12, p=0.015), uterine contractions (n=31, p<0.0001), premature membrane rupture (n=29, p<0.0001), abortion (n=13, p=0.009), pre-term delivery (n=24, p<0.0001) and post-partum endometritis (n=19, p=0.0006). PVD was associated with neonatal outcomes i.e. low birth weight (n=24, p<0.0001), low Apgar score at birth (n=22, p=0.0001), neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (n=21, p=0.0002), neonatal intensive care hospitalisation (n=20, p=0.002) and early neonatal death (n=16, p=0.003).

Conclusion: Pathological vaginal discharge (PVD) during pregnancy is more frequent and is associated with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4187

How to cite this:Khaskheli M, Baloch S, Baloch AS, Shah SGS. Vaginal discharge during pregnancy and associated adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1302-1308. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4187

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.
Effectiveness of mechanical traction in supine versus prone lying position for lumbosacral radiculopathy
Authors: Khan Rehan Ramzan , Riaz Saima , Rashid Sajid , Sulman Muhammad
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of mechanical traction in supine versus prone lying position for lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Methods: A quasi experimental trial was conducted from April to September 2020 among sixty patients of chronic lumbosacral radiculopathy at Ibn-e-Siena Hospital, Multan. Participants were divided into two groups. Group-A (Supine) participants received lumbar traction in supine lying along with conventional treatment. Group-B (Prone) underwent the same treatment except the lumbar traction being applied in prone lying position. Participants were evaluated twice: at pre- treatment (week 0) and at the post treatment (week 2). Oswestry Disability Index and Numeric Pain Rating Scale were used as outcome measure. Data was analyzed on SPSS 23.

Results: The mean (±S.D) age of the patients was 39±5.7 vs. 40±5.3 years in supine vs. prone group respectively. Mean ODI score was 25.2±6.13 vs. 26.0±6.26 at the start of treatment in supine vs. prone position respectively while it was 19.45±7.12 vs. 11.05±4.40 at end of treatment in supine vs. prone position respectively. Mean NPRS score was 7.73±1.23 vs. 7.67±0.96 at start of treatment in supine vs. prone position respectively while it was 4.63±0.89 vs. 3.13±0.90 at the end of treatment in supine vs. prone position respectively.

Conclusion: Lumbar traction in prone lying position is more effective than lumbar traction in supine lying position for the treatment of chronic lumbosacral radiculopathy.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4200

How to cite this:Khan RR, Riaz S, Rashid S, Sulman M. Effectiveness of mechanical traction in supine versus prone lying position for lumbosacral radiculopathy. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1451-1455. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4200

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 of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and its associated risk factors
Authors: Kanwal Shaista , Ghaffar Tahir , Aamir Azizul Hasan , Usman Khalid
Published: July 2021

Objective: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is emerging as a major public health problem globally especially in patients with Type-2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study aimed to assess the frequency of NAFLD in patients with T2DM and to study its associated risk factors.

Methods: This descriptive study was conducted from April 2020 to October 2020 at the Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar. Adult patients with T2DM were included in the study and underwent abdominal ultrasound for the identification of NAFLD. All the relevant clinical and biochemical characteristics were measured.

Results: Out of 384 participants, 236 patients (61.5%) had NAFLD on ultrasound. Patients with NAFLD had higher mean BMI, higher HbA1c, increased waist circumference, raised ALT, higher triglyceride, and low HDL. Logistic regression analysis revealed a statistically significant association with central obesity (OR = 5.448, 95% CI = 1.416-20.959, p = 0.014), higher BMI (OR = 4.435, 95% CI = 2.127-9.246, p < 0.0001), higher HbA1c [> 11%] (OR = 3.602, 95% CI = 1.438-9.019, p = 0.006), and elevated ALT (OR = 3.211, 95% CI = 1.509-6.835, p = 0.002). The highest odds for NAFLD were found for hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 11.624, 95% CI = 5.405-24.998, p < 0.0001) and low HDL (OR = 11.543, 95% CI = 2.590-51.439, p = 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions: High frequency of NAFLD along with its associated clinical and laboratory risk factors were revealed. This underpins the significance of screening T2DM patients for NAFLD and assessment for and modification of its associated risk factors in routine clinical practice.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4211

How to cite this:Kanwal S, Ghaffar T, Aamir AH, Usman K. Frequency of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus and its associated risk factors. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1335-1341. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4211

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 Anti-Hp treatment on nutritional status of children with Helicobacter Pylori-Positive Gastritis and its clinical significance
Authors: Zuo Na-ying , Zhang Yuan-da , Dong Qing-wei , Bi Jing , Liu Xiao
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To evaluate the outcome of anti-HP treatment on the nutritional status of children with Helicobacter pylori-positive gastritis.

Methods: Sixty children with Helicobacter pylori-positive gastritis admitted to our hospital from June 2018 to June 2020 were selected as the experimental group, and 60 healthy normal people (Hp negative) were selected as the control group. The experimental group were given anti-HP treatment, and the improvement of their clinical symptoms after treatment and the changes of nutritional indexes such as hemoglobin and serum ferritin were observed one year after treatment. Gastroscopy was performed before treatment and four weeks after treatment, and the improvement of gastric inflammation and the positive rate of Hp were compared and analyzed before and after treatment.

Results: The nutritional indicators of the children in experimental group were inferior compared with those in the control group (p<0.05). The clinical symptoms and signs of the experimental group were significantly alleviated after anti-Hp treatment, and the biochemical indicators were significantly improved after one Year of follow-up compared with those before treatment (p<0.05). The incidence of moderate and severe gastric mucosal inflammation in the experimental group decreased from 70% before treatment to 17% (p<0.05). The HP infection decreased from 100% before treatment to 13% (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Helicobacter pylori infection has a negative impact on the nutritional status of children. Anti-HP therapy can improve the gastrointestinal symptoms and nutritional status of children, which plays an important role in the growth and development of children.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4234

How to cite this:Zuo N, Zhang Y, Dong Q, Bi J, Liu X. Effect of Anti-Hp Treatment on nutritional status of children with Helicobacter Pylori-Positive Gastritis and its clinical significance. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1430-1434. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4234

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 rapid and conventional methods for investigating of mecA presence in Staphylococcus Species
Authors: Görgün Selim , İşler Hacer , Turgut Mehmet Cenk
Published: July 2021

Objectives: Taking the determination of mecA gene by polymerized chain reaction (PCR) method as a reference in determining methicillin resistance in Staphylococcus species, we aimed at comparing the reliability levels of disk diffusion, latex agglutination test and chromogenic agar use methods.
Methods: This prospective study was conducted on 228 Staphylococcus strains isolated between January 2020 and December 2020 in Samsun Training and Research Hospital. Disk diffusion, latex agglutination and chromogen agar medium methods were applied along with the polymerized chain reaction (PCR) method.
Results: The mecA gene was detected in 47 of the isolates (20.6%) by the PCR method, and these isolates were accepted as methicillin-resistant. When the PCR result was taken as a reference, the sensitivity of the disk diffusion method became 100%, and specificity became 45.9%; sensitivity of latex agglutination was determined as 80.9%, and specificity as 70.2%; sensitivity of chromogenic agar as 85.1% and its specificity was found to be 95%. Only in S. aureus isolates, the highest sensitivity and specificity rate (100% and 88%, respectively) belonged to chromogenic agar.
Conclusion: Chromogenic agar provides more reliable data for S. aureus isolates, and the combined use of all three methods does not significantly increase reliability.
doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4274
How to cite this:Gorgun S, Isler H, Turgut MC. Comparison of rapid and conventional methods for investigating of mecA presence in Staphylococcus Species. Pak J Med Sci. 2021;37(5):1467-1474. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.37.5.4274
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.
Methylene blue treatment of pediatric patients in the cardiovascular intensive care unit
Authors:   Department of Child Health, Phoenix Children's Hospital and University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ USA, Scheffer Ashley
Published: July 2021

Background: In both adults and children, hypotension related to a vasoplegic state has multiple etiologies, including septic shock, burn injury or cardiopulmonary bypass-induced vasoplegic syndrome likely due to an increase in nitric oxide (NO) within the vasculature. Methylene blue is used at times to treat this condition, but its use in pediatric cardiac patients has not been described previously in the literature. Objective: 1) Analyze the mean arterial blood pressures and vasoactive-inotropic scores of pediatric patients whose hypotension was treated with methylene blue compared to hypotensive controls; 2) Describe the dose administered and the pathologies of hypotension cited for methylene blue use; 3) Compare the morbidity and mortality of pediatric patients treated with methylene blue versus controls. Design: A retrospective chart review. Setting: Cardiac ICU in a quaternary care free-standing children’s hospital. Patients: Thirty-two patients with congenital heart disease who received methylene blue as treatment for hypotension, fifty patients with congenital heart disease identified as controls. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Demographic and vital sign data was collected for all pediatric patients treated with methylene blue during a three-year study period. Mixed effects linear regression models analyzed mean arterial blood pressure trends for twelve hours post methylene blue treatment and vasoactive-inotropic scores for twenty-four hours post treatment. Methylene blue use correlated with an increase in mean arterial blood pressure of 10.8mm Hg over a twelve-hour period (p< 0.001). Mean arterial blood pressure trends of patients older than one year did not differ significantly from controls (p=1.00), but patients less than or equal to one year of age had increasing mean arterial blood pressures that were significantly different from controls (p=0.02). Mixed effects linear regression modeling found a statistically significant decrease in vasoactive-inotropic scores over a twenty-four-hour period in the group treated with methylene blue (p< 0.001). This difference remained significant comparted to controls (p=0.003). Survival estimates did not detect a difference between the two groups (p=0.39). Conclusion: Methylene blue may be associated with a decreased need for vasoactive-inotropic support and may correlate with an increase in mean arterial blood pressure in patients who are less than or equal to one year of age.
Characterization of a fiber-coupled EvenField illumination system for fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Berry Kyla , Taormina Mike , Maltzer Zoe , Turner Kristen , Gorham Melissa , Nguyen Thuc , Serafin Robert , Nicovich Philip R.
Published: July 2021

Fluorescence microscopy benefits from spatially and temporally homogeneous illumination with the illumination area matched to the shape and size of the camera sensor. Fiber-coupled illumination schemes have the added benefit of straightforward and robust alignment and ease of installation compared to free-space coupled illumination. Commercial and open-source fiber-coupled, homogenized illumination schemes have recently become available to the public; however, there have been no published comparisons of speckle reduction schemes to date. We characterize three different multimode fibers in combination with two laser speckle reduction devices and compare spatial and temporal profiles to a commercial unit. This work yields a new design, the EvenField Illuminator, which is freely available for researchers to integrate into their own imaging systems.
All-silica fiber-optic temperature-depth-salinity sensor based on cascaded EFPIs and FBG for deep sea exploration
Authors: Liu Yueying , Jing Zhenguo , Liu Qiang , Li Ang , Lee Ang , Cheung Yang , Zhang Yang , Peng Wei
Published: July 2021

Using fusion splicing and hydroxide catalysis bonding (HCB) technology, an all-silica inline fiber-optic sensor with high-pressure survivability, high-resolution salinity measurement capability, and corrosion resistance for deep sea explorations is proposed and experimentally demonstrated. Two extrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometers (EFPIs) and a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) are cascaded in one single-mode fiber (SMF), enabling structural integration of single lead-in fiber and versatility of the sensing probe for temperature, depth, and salinity monitoring. The HCB technology offers a polymer adhesive-free assembly of one open-cavity EFPI for refractive index (RI) (salinity) sensing under normal pressure and temperature (NPT) conditions, showing obvious advantages of strong bonding strength, reliable effectiveness, and no corrosive chemicals requirements. The other EFPI formed by a fused structure is designed for pressure (depth) measurement. The cascading of EFPIs, especially the open-cavity EFPI immersed in water, will result in large light transmission loss and bring challenges to signal interrogation. Graded-index fiber (GIF) micro-collimators and reflective films are added to prevent dramatic degradations of signal intensity and fringe visibility underwater. Thereby, a Fabry-Perot (FP) cavity of several hundreds of microns in length and an open cavity of a thousand microns can be cascaded for underwater applications, effectively enhancing sensitivities and underwater signal readout simultaneously. Results show that the proposed sensor can well operate in the deep-sea pressure range of 0∼2039.43 mH2O, RI range of 1.33239∼1.36885 RIU, and temperature range of 23∼80 °C, with resolutions of 0.033 MPa, 4.16×10−7 RIU, and 0.54 °C, respectively. With the multi-parameter measurement capability, all-silica construction, and inline compact structure, the proposed sensor could be a potential candidate for deep sea exploration.
Integrating disciplinary practices to optimally deliver alternative assessments and embed graduate attributes in a Global Mental Health Master’s programme
Authors: Karadzhov Dimitar , Sharp Laura , Langan Martin Julie
Published: July 2021

The routes to optimising the authenticity of assessments in different organisational and disciplinary contexts have been ambiguous and challenging. This paper offers a case study of diversifying the assessments in a taught Master’s Programme by integrating disciplinary practices to design alternative assessments. Embedding discipline-specific principles and perspectives was found to be key to achieving authenticity of assessments. This paper reports on a descriptive mixed-method study that the authors conducted to evaluate current students’ perceptions of and experiences with the diversified assessments in the Programme. Overall, the findings demonstrate students’ acknowledgement of the importance of a diverse mix of assessments, especially in terms of fostering the development of several graduate attributes. The findings also highlight several opportunities for enhancing the constructive alignment of the curriculum. Alternative assessments can be feasibly designed to promote many of the graduate attributes necessary to create ‘global students’ in an increasingly competitive and internationalised job market.
The Effect of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) on Performance with Information Technology Capability as Moderating Variable
Authors: Marsudi Almatius Setya , Pambudi Rilo
Published: July 2021

This study aims to gain an understanding of the role of technological capability as a moderating variable on the effect of ERP implementation on operational performance. Companies are expected to utilize information technology capability to encourage the sustainability of information technology developments. This study used secondary data from companies that have implemented ERP in Indonesia. The data were tested for validity and reliability and classical assumptions. It used moderated regression analysis by considering technological capability as a moderating variable. The sample taken consists of companies in Indonesia that have used ERP for at least three years. The result indicates that there is an effect ERP implementation on operational performance but there is no effect of technology capability as a moderating variable on the effect of ERP implementation on operational performance. This study provides theoretical and practical contributions by explaining how to build IT capability so that the implementation of ERP drives the operational performance of business processes. This implies the importance of companies implementing ERP and understanding ERP development systems such as good corporate strategies, executive support, and changes in business processes. The results of this study imply that there are factors that strengthen or weaken the effect of ERP implementation on operational performance in addition to IT capabilities.
Capital Account Liberalization and Income Inequality: A Panel Study of 28 European Countries
Authors: Radhianshah Muhammad Taufik , Kurnia Akhmad Syakir
Published: July 2021

Financial globalization has evolved from domestic policy to international scope policy. One of its form is capital liberalization which we can observe from the declining number of restrictions among countries for cross-border financial transaction, and the increasing level of capital flow between countries. Europe cross-country financial transaction has been increasing for the last three decades and this increase happened simultaneously with the increase of income inequality as measured with Gini index. This condition gives impression that there is a positive correlation between income inequality and capital account liberalization. This research aims to study whether income inequality corresponds to the increase of capital account liberalization in 28 Europe countries. Furthermore, this research seeks to understand the role of institutional quality and financial depth as threshold variables. By employing System GMM Estimator on balanced panel data, this study finds that capital account liberalization positively correlated with income inequality and institutional quality proven to be important threshold variable. These findings emphasize the urgency for policy maker to consider institutional quality before or during the implementation of capital account liberalization.
The Comparison on 21st Century Skills of Early Childhood in Four Schools in Yogyakarta
Authors: Munastiwi Erni
Published: July 2021

This study aims to determine differences in 21st century abilities, including critical thinking, creative thinking, communication skills, and collaboration skills, in 4 schools in the Yogyakarta region. This research is a comparative survey with a research sample of 60 students. The data collecting techniques used in interviews with questionnaires consist of 4 21st century abilities: critical thinking skills, creative thinking, communication skills, and collaboration skills. The results showed differences in 21st-century abilities between schools AR with RA, AR with TY, RA with TY, RA with RB, and TY with RB. This is proved by the t-test, where the sig.t value <0.05 is obtained in a row on the creative thinking ability of 0.001; 0.049; 0.00; 0.001; 0.024. Ability to think creatively in succession 0.003; 0.009; 0.000; 0.009; 0.005. 0.000 successive communication skills; 0.011; 0.000; 0.000; 0.003. Collaboration ability 0.002 consecutively; 0.001; 0.000; 0.003; 0.000. Then there is no difference between AR and RB schools. The value of sig evidence this. t > 0.05 in a row on critical thinking skills, creative thinking, communication skills, and collaboration skills 0.781; 0.702; 0.540; 0.624. The difference in ability is influenced by the learning method used.
Interfacial Bonding Enhancement between Cryogenic Conditioned Carbon Fiber and Epoxy Resin Characterized by the Single-Fiber Fragmentation Method
Authors: Li Wuzhou , Zheng Liangang , Gao Yang , Xie Yuzhe , Xu Fujun
Published: July 2021

Carbon fiber (CF) is an important structural material due to its favorable mechanical and physical properties. However, poor interfacial bonding with polymer resin severely affects the mechanical performance of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRP). In this study, the single-fiber CFRPs were treated using multi-stage cryogenic approaches to optimize the interfacial shear strength (IFSS) between carbon fiber and epoxy resin. The carbon fiber was pretreated by cryogenic treatment with sharp and slow cooling rates, followed by the same treatment of the single-fiber CFRP composed of the pretreated carbon fiber to reach the optimal interfacial modification. The IFSS value was increased by 27.4% when the carbon fiber was pretreated at a slow cooling rate, and its single-fiber CFRP was treated at a sharp cooling rate.
Potret Perempuan Jawa dalam Makna Asosiatif Diakronis Peralatan Rumah Tangga Tradisional
Authors: Suryadi Muhammad
Published: July 2021

This study aims to reveal the portrait of Javanese women in Java in the past. This research was conducted using an associative-diachronic meaning approach. The disclosure of phenomena is carried out by describing each lexicon of traditional household tools based on their associative meaning. The lexicon is analyzed based on its associative meaning based on the local wisdom of Javanese culture. Diachronic studies to explore the wealth of local wisdom stored in traditional household appliances as a legacy from the past. The level of urgency of this research is the shift and replacement of the use of traditional household tools to tools made from plastic and metal. This phenomenon will lead to abandonment of traditional household appliances and being forgotten. The research location is in Kudus Regency which is part of the north coast of Central Java. The data collection methods used were in-depth interviews and document data extraction. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah wawancara mendalam dan ekstraksi data dokumen.  The data analysis method used was to sort out the semantic elements and determine the associative meaning of the lexicon of traditional household appliances. The novelty of the findings lies in the design of descriptions of associative semantic elements in traditional household appliances based on local wisdom.
Evaluating yield and related trait of Haricot Bean varieties at Dambi Dollo University Research Site, Ethiopia
Authors: Alemu Itefa Degefa , Abriham Abdisa , Shuma Soresa
Published: July 2021

Haricot bean (Phaseolus vulagris L.) is an annual crop cultivated for food as it has high protein content. The objective of this study was to evaluate yield and yield-related traits of haricot bean varieties at the Dollo University research site. Five released and four local haricot bean varieties were used on 3 × 2 m (6 m2) experimental plots using randomized complete block design with three replications. Data pertaining to agronomic traits and yield performance of each variety were recorded and analyzed using R software version 4.0.5 and Microsoft Excel 2010. One way multivariate analysis showed a significant difference (p <0.05) in thousand seed weight. SAB-632, Local-4 (‘Burree’) and SAB-736 showed higher yield than the other haricot bean varieties. They are also high in all agronomic traits except SAB-736. Thousand seed weight and yield were high and significant with positively correlated to each other. Plant height had a high and significant positive correlation with the number of branches and seeds per plant. Generally, it is possible to say that haricot bean varieties, SAB-632 and Local-4(‘Burree’) are preferable in yield at the Dambi Dollo University research site according to the present findings. Therefore, it is good if these two haricot bean varieties are practised for multiplication at Dambi Dollo Research site and other related agro ecologies.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Economic and Political Situation in Germany. Part 1
Authors:   Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kokeev Alexander , Khorolskaya Maria ,   Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations, Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: July 2021

The COVID-19 epidemic has become a major security challenge for Germany. The country was faced with the need to protect its own citizens, transform the health care system and support the economy. On the eve of the elections to the Bundestag, German elite concern how COVID-19 and restrictive measures will affect the electoral preferences of the population. At the same time, the pandemic has become a test for European solidarity. The first isolationist reaction of the EU member states gave way to attempts to find a solution at the supranational level. In a twopart article, the team of authors made an attempt to analyze how the German government solves the problems facing the country at the national and European levels, as well as to identify how citizens’ moods change under the influence of the pandemic, what predictions can be made about the results of the upcoming elections to the Bundestag. The first part is devoted to German anti-virus policy, as well as a study of economic damage and measures to support the economy. The second will analyze the FRG’s policy at the European level, as well as the impact of the pandemic on the mood in society and the political preferences of Germans.