bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diligencia debida de las empresas en situaciones de posconflicto: el papel de la sociedad civil y las víctimas en el avance de la protección del medio ambiente y los derechos humanos en Colombia
Authors: Paricio Montesinos Marta
Published: July 2024

Recientemente ha aumentado el consenso para responsabilizar a las empresas por sus abusos en derechos humanos en zonas afectadas por conflictos. Esto está representado por el concepto de diligencia debida reforzada, basado principalmente en los UNGP. Mas, falta literatura académica sobre este tema. Este estudio se centra en el Estado colombiano, analizando su desempeño en su deber de protección y cómo, ante su ausencia, la sociedad civil y las víctimas luchan por acabar con la impunidad empresarial. Sus acciones y limitaciones plantean interrogantes sobre las premisas del marco internacional de diligencia debida y lo esperado de un Estado debilitado.
Del derecho internacional «blando» al derecho nacional: los principios rectores en la legislación nacional obligatoria sobre diligencia debida en materia de derechos humanos
Authors: Assenza Elena
Published: July 2024

Hoy en día, los Principios Rectores se consideran la norma soft internacional autorizada sobre empresas y derechos humanos. Si bien los PRNU generalmente caen dentro de la categoría de instrumentos internacionales «blandos», la última década ha sido testigo de una ola de desarrollos legales nacionales que buscan convertir los principios consagrados en los PRNU en obligaciones vinculantes para las empresas relevantes según la legislación nacional. El artículo explora tres leyes nacionales seleccionadas que intentan «endurecer» la responsabilidad corporativa de respetar los derechos humanos, consagrada en el Pilar II de los PRNU, mediante la imposición de un requisito legal para que las empresas relevantes ejerzan la debida diligencia en materia de derechos humanos.
A Comprehensive Review on Rubella Virus
Authors: Komal Mallikarjun Dikole  , H.V. Kamble  , Santosh A. Waghmare
Published: July 2024

Rubella, colloquially known as German measles, is an exceptionally contagious viral illness that primarily affects children and non-immune young adults. While the infection is typically mild and self-limiting in most cases, rubella virus infection during early pregnancy can have devastating consequences, leading to a range of severe birth defects collectively termed congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The etiological agent, Rubella virus (RV), is an enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus and the sole member of the genus Rubivirus within the Matonaviridae family. Despite the availability of an effective and safe rubella vaccine, the disease continues to pose a significant global health threat, with an estimated 100,000 cases of CRS occurring annually worldwide, predominantly in regions with suboptimal vaccination coverage. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate details of rubella virus, encompassing its epidemiological patterns, modes of transmission, and the complex pathogenic mechanisms underlying congenital rubella syndrome
A Review on Rotary Tablet Machines and Recent Advancements in Tableting Technologies and Tablet Design
Authors: Uday Raj Dokuburra  , Bandeswararao Panda  , Anil Kumar Vadaga
Published: July 2024

Rotary tablet machines have been instrumental in the manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms, enabling accurate dosing, stability during storage, and convenient administration. This review comprehensively discusses the fundamental components, operating principles, and manufacturing methods associated with rotary tablet machines. Furthermore, it delves into recent groundbreaking advancements in tableting technologies, with a particular emphasis on three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for personalized drug manufacturing. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, has emerged as a game-changer in the pharmaceutical industry, allowing for the production of personalized 3D-printed drugs through computer-aided model design. This technology offers significant advantages over traditional manufacturing processes, including the ability to create complex drug delivery systems, achieve intricate release profiles, and rapidly produce small batches of drugs tailored to individual patient needs. In addition to 3D printing, the review highlights recent innovations in tablet design, such as tablet-in-tablet, multilayer tablets, tablet-in-capsule, and microchip-embedded tablets. These advancements have the potential to enhance drug delivery, improve patient compliance, and optimize therapeutic outcomes
A Review on Integration of Precision Medicine in Oncology Practice
Authors: Harini Karimanal  , Dinesh Bandaru
Published: July 2024

Oncology, the medical specialty focused on cancer study, diagnosis, and treatment, has experienced remarkable progress over the years. The introduction of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy has broadened treatment possibilities, yet the field continues to face significant challenges. Precision medicine, also known as personalized medicine, has emerged as a transformative approach in this complex environment. It offers innovative strategies for disease prevention and treatment by considering individual genetic, environmental, and lifestyle differences. A leading trend in precision oncology is the formulation of personalized treatment plans based on the distinct genetic and molecular characteristics of each patient's tumor. The evolution of precision medicine in oncology has been driven by technological advancements such as genomic sequencing technologies, high-throughput screening, bioinformatics, targeted therapy, liquid biopsy, CRISPR and gene editing, and the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These innovations have significantly influenced cancer treatment, enabling more precise and effective interventions. This article examines the critical technological developments propelling precision medicine forward and assesses their impact on oncology. It also explores the essential steps required to integrate precision medicine into clinical practice, addressing the challenges and advantages associated with its adoption. Integrating precision medicine into oncology promises to enhance the accuracy of diagnoses, improve treatment outcomes, and reduce adverse effects by tailoring interventions to individual patient profiles.  This review discusses the importance of continued research and technological innovation in realizing the full potential of precision oncology
The Transformative Potential of mRNA Vaccines in Revolutionizing Vaccine Development And Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Vidhyalakshmi R  , Rajaganapathy K  , Kowsika M  , Pratheeba G
Published: July 2024

Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has emerged as a transformative force in the field of vaccine development and therapeutic applications, revolutionizing the landscape of modern medicine. This cutting-edge technology enables the rapid and flexible design of vaccines and therapeutics, unleashing a new era of personalized and targeted treatments. During the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA vaccines demonstrated their immense potential by facilitating the swift development and deployment of highly effective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, contributing significantly to the global response against the virus. Beyond infectious diseases, mRNA technology has opened new frontiers in cancer immunotherapy, offering personalized and therapeutic cancer vaccines that stimulate robust immune responses against tumors. Furthermore, mRNA technology is being explored for the treatment of genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and allergies, demonstrating its versatility and broad therapeutic potential. The rapid scalability and production of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics also present opportunities to address global health inequities by ensuring wider accessibility and distribution, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Ongoing research efforts aim to further stabilize mRNA formulations, enhance delivery systems, and expand the range of target diseases, including neurological disorders and zoonotic infections. As innovation and collaboration continue to drive advancements in mRNA technology, its impact on global health and personalized medicine is poised to expand, promising more effective, targeted, and personalized medical solutions. Ultimately, mRNA technology represents a groundbreaking advancement in biomedical science, with the potential to transform healthcare delivery and improve outcomes across diverse medical fields
DERMATOGLYPHICS ASSOCIATION WITH CRIMINAL INTENT
Authors: Butt Usman Shahid , Iqbal Anam , Akhtar Nasreen , Qazi Sara , Ali Zaryab , Rahman Rahat Abdul
Published: July 2024

Background: The researches carried out on various type of human behaviour showed that it has been impacted upon by genetic as well as environment components. The aggressive behaviour having intent of criminality is also governed by both environmental and genetic makeup. Here we have analysed and explored environmental factors. Methods: Samples from 100 convicted criminals and 100 from general population were taken with simple convenient sampling, after obtaining informed consent and maintaining strict confidentiality. Fingerprints of both left and right thumb were taken on ten print cards. The environmental element was checked by studying association of any specific fingerprint pattern with the criminal intent. Right thumb of offenders was compared with that of normal population. Results: It became cleared that number of loop pattern was high in normal population, i.e., 60% as compared to 44% of offenders. The arch pattern was 9% in general population and 2% in offenders. The whorls were high in offenders 54%, as compared to 32% in general population. The statistical analysis of right hand was performed by chi square test and the p=0.002, statistically significant. Left thumb showed no significant differences between the two groups. Conclusion: This study reveals the association of dermatoglyphics with criminal intent. The right hand can be a significant tool in scrutinizing criminals on large scale.
Pak J Physiol 2021;17(2):35–7
SELF-REPORTED EXPOSURE TO SECOND-HAND TOBACCO SMOKE AND LUNG FUNCTION IN UNDERGRADUATE MALE MEDICAL STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN
Authors: Khan Huma Saeed , Sheikh Naveen Siddique , Ayub Maria Muhammad , Tariq Mehak , Zahid Sidra , Hafeez Farida
Published: July 2024

Background: Passive smoking, where an individual inhales tobacco smoke, has been associated with many health issues from asthma to cancer and is attributed to affecting pulmonary function tests like the peak expiratory flow rate of individuals. Keeping this in mind, the study was conducted to compare the peak expiratory flow rate of passive smokers with that of non-smokers. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted from 2017 to 2019 in which 184 male undergraduate medical students enrolled in the study at the time of admission for each successive year after informed consent. Participants were recruited by non probability consecutive sampling technique and divided into two groups based on status of passive smoking, passive smokers (n=97) and non-smokers (n=87). Their height, weight, waist to hip ratio, and peak expiratory flow rate were recorded. The recorded data was analysed on SPSS-26. Results: The current study showed that 52.7% of the study participants were passive smokers and 47.3% were non-smokers. A significant difference (p<0.01) of peak expiratory flow rate was seen between non-smokers and passive smokers on the Mann-Whitney U Test. As observed by mean ranks, nonsmokers had a higher peak expiratory flow rate (109.86 L/min) than passive smokers (76.93 L/min) (p=0.01). Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient revealed a positive significant relationship between peak expiratory flow rate and height in passive smokers (rho=0.21, p=0.04). Conclusion: The peak expiratory flow rate of passive smokers is less than that of non-smokers and there is a positive significant relationship between height and peak expiratory flow rate.
PATTEREN OF CHEST INJURIES DURING ROAD TRAFFIC ACCIDENT IN PATIENTS PRESENTED TO EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT OF AIMS MUZAFFRABAD
Authors: Kayani Ziyad Afzal , Gilani Irum , Manzoor Shagufta , Awan Sarmud Lateef , Naqvi Syed Zakir , Qureshi Shagufta Sabir
Published: July 2024

Background: Road traffic accident injuries are an important cause of mortality and morbidity. It is the major public health problem in every country across the world and causing approximately 5.8 million deaths per year. The Chest trauma is a disease that has worsened long with growing urbanization and industrialization; due to worldwide increases in violence, constructions and vehicle number. Methods: This study was conducted at Abbas Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) Muzaffarabad AJ&K from August 2020 to December 2020. The study was approved by Ethical committee of AIMS hospital. Convenient sampling technique was used. Hospital based retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study designs was used to assess patterns and outcomes of chest injuries among patients based on pre designed questionnaire presented to AIMS Muzaffarabad. The collected data were entered to SPSS, version 25 for analyses. Result: Most affected age group was young adults (63%) between 18yr-35yr.Nearly three fourth 72% of chest trauma patients were male and 28% were females. Majority of chest trauma patient arrived to health care facilities within 1 to 2 hours of trauma. Rib fracture was the commonest types of chest injury (39%) followed by hemopneumothorax (25%) and pulmonary contusion (7%). With regard to associated body region injured, extremities were the commonest region (47%). Conclusion: Chest injuries due to RTA predominantly affect the male and economically productive age group with high morbidity and mortality in this environment.
IMPACT OF EDUCATIONAL PEDAGOGY ON REGISTERED NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE IN NEUROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY PATIENTS
Authors: Yousef Nazia , Ozigi Abdullahi Kabir , Hussain Muhammad , Perveen Kousar , Afzal Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Background: Nurses perform neurological assessment to determine whether patients’ neurological condition is intact or there exists some problem. We aimed to assess the effect of educational pedagogy on the knowledge of nurses in neurological assessment of traumatic brain injury patients. Methods: This quasi-experimental study investigated the effect of educational pedagogy on 70 registered nurses of a tertiary care hospital from April to June 2021. Diploma holder nurses aged 25–50 years working in the morning shift were included. Nurses who had specialization in neurosciences and had planned to go on leave during study period were excluded. A 20-items validated tool was used for assessment. Correct response was marked as ‘1’ and wrong or missed as ‘0’. Knowledge was categorized as inadequate (1–6 score) <30%, moderate (7–13 scores) 35–65%, and adequate (14–20 scores) as 70–100%. Results: Frequency and percentages of demographic and professional variables were checked. Half of the registered nurses had inadequate knowledge (scores 1–6), while rest 50% had moderate knowledge (scores 7–13). No one had adequate knowledge during pre-assessment. The post-test results of the study illustrated that 34 (48.6%) nurses had moderate knowledge. Thirty-two (45.7%) nurses having adequate knowledge (score 14–20). Only 4 (5.7%) nurses had inadequate knowledge. Mean (?=13) of the post-test knowledge score was significantly higher than the mean (?=7.611) of the pre-test knowledge score. Conclusion: Educational intervention was effective in improving knowledge and skills competency of registered nurses in neurological assessment.
SPUTUM CULTURE AND POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION TESTS FOR IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIAL PATHOGENS IN EXACERBATION OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE
Authors: Rashid Muhammad Noman , Laghari Zulfiqar , Riaz Lubna , Noman Beenish , Khan Rasheed Ahmed , Soomro Ali Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a growing pulmonary disorder comprised of chronic bronchitis and emphysema. This condition is characterized by breathlessness, decrease immunity, and recurrent respiratory tract infections (RTI). The objective of this study was identification of predominant bacterial pathogens in respiratory tract, responsible for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients using highly sensitive real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and conventional methods. Methods: The retrospective study was conducted in tertiary care hospitals of Karachi, 120 diagnosed regular follow-ups of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with informed and written consent aged between 40–55 years from both sexes were included in the study. All samples were analyzed through sputum culturing and PCR assays. Results: Sixty stable state samples and 60 aggravated condition samples were collected from subjects on treatment for the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Stable state samples were negative for Chlamydophila pneumonia, and Mycoplasma pneumonia. However, samples showed the presence of Moraxella, Streptococcus, Nocardia, Lactobacilli, and Legionella. In aggravated state samples Haemophilus influenza, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus pneumonia, E. coli, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, and Nocardia were observed. Conclusion: The current findings suggest that there is a unique relationship between bacterial pathogens and the recurrence of the severity of symptoms in COPD. To understand the diversity of atypical and typical microbiota it is important to utilize sensitive advanced techniques for routine investigations of the COPD population.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):39–43
RISK FACTORS OF PREMATURE RUPTURE OF MEMBRANES IN AYUB TEACHING HOSPITAL: A CASE CONTROL STUDY
Authors: Toqueer Mahwish , Javaid Mahnoor , Nazneen Zainab , Ahmed Khalid , Hayauddin Hizbar , Toqueer Umair
Published: July 2024

Background: Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is one of the important causes of preterm delivery and is associated with increased incidence of neonatal and maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The aim of this study was to find out the risk factors associated with PROM in patients admitted to Obstetrics Ward of Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad. Methods: This case control study was conducted on pregnant females (>28 weeks gestation) from 1st November, 2018 to 30th May, 2019. The sample size was 195 patients (130 controls, 65 cases in 2:1 ratio) collected through convenient sampling. Data was analysed using SPSS-16. Odds ratio with confidence interval was used to estimate the strength of association of PROM with its risk factors, and p?0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age of the patients was 25.48±3.65 years ranging between 19–38 years. Most of the patients belonged to the age group 26–35 years. Most women were illiterate, unemployed, and had poor socio-economic background. The most important risk factors of PROM were PROM in previous pregnancies (OR=3.978, CI=1.484–10.666, p=0.012), foul smelling vaginal discharge (OR=2.700, CI=1.197–6.089, p=0.014), polyhydramnios (OR=2.5, CI=1.178–5.404, p=0.015), and vaginal bleeding (OR=2.486, CI=1.117–5.534, p=0.023). Conclusion: PROM in previous pregnancies, foul smelling vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding, and polyhydramnios were found to increase the risk of PROM significantly.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):44–7
INCIDENCE OF VISCERAL LEISHMANIASIS AMONG PANCYTOPENIC PAEDIATRIC PATIENTS
Authors: Iqbal Attia , Qazi Noor-ul-ain , Gillani Saima , Hussain Saad , Raza Muhammad Ali , Ajmal Jaweria
Published: July 2024

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a parasitic infection caused by Leishmania donovani. The sting of a sand-fly transmits Leishmania to humans. VL can lead to morbidity and even death if there is a delay in diagnosis. The objective of this study was to find out patients with visceral leishmaniasis presenting as pancytopenia in paediatric population. Methods: This single centre-cross sectional study was conducted for eight months in Paediatric Department, Ayub Medical Complex Hospital, Abbottabad. After taking informed written consent from all patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria, history was taken, detailed clinical examination done and bone marrow biopsy performed to check the Leishmania Donovani (LD) in the marrow sample. The findings were recorded and analysed. Results: Among 159 children presenting with pancytopenia, VL was confirmed in bone marrow biopsy report of 21 (13.2%) children, 100 children (62.9%) were males and 59 (37.1%) were females with the mean age of 5.58±3.44 years. Conclusion: VL is not an uncommon cause of pancytopenia in the paediatric population and should always be considered in the aetiology of pancytopenia in children especially those belonging to risky areas and if travel history is positive for the Mediterranean area. As the condition is treatable and has many complications that may lead to death if diagnosis is delayed, so workup and management done in time can actually save life of patient.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):13?5
ROLE OF TRPM6 AND TRPM7 GENE POLYMORPHISMS IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Fareed Shahid , Hussain Shah , Khan Farooq , Badshah Jehan , Rehman Fateh ur , Ali Mohsin
Published: July 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a type of the autoimmune disease that adversely effects on the quality of life of the patient, primarily by affecting the joints. Different underlying immune system diseases through a common pathway may proceed to onset of rheumatoid arthritis. Magnesium (Mg) is one of the other essential minerals having significant role in the management of normal immune responses in inflammatory conditions. The exact role of magnesium deficiency (MgD) in pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis is still under debate, but several mechanisms are proposed through which, MgD leads to generation of inappropriate immune system functions. Most of the dietary Mg is absorbed in small intestine through paracellular passive mechanism while small amount is transported in blood through Transient Receptor Potential Channel Melastatin member 6 and 7 (TRPM6 and TRPM7). Genetic alterations in TRPM gene results in hypomagnesaemia, which may in turn, increase the risk of onset of pro-inflammatory mediators.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):63–7
COMPARISON OF DRY NEEDLING WITH CONVENTIONAL PHYSIOTHERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS FOR PAIN AND FUNCTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS
Authors: Anwar Tahreem , Perveen Wajida , Hashmi Riaz , Ali Misbah Amanat , Akhtar Muhammad , Anwar Sahreen
Published: July 2024

Background: Knee Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects many individuals in their forties or later and can lead towards impairment of physical functions and poor quality of life. Our study aimed to compare the effectiveness of dry needling with conventional physical therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Methods: It was a non-randomized clinical study conducted after ethical approval at Syed Medical Complex and Amin Welfare and Teaching Hospital Sialkot in 6 months. Sample size was calculated to be 58 using WHO calculator. Purposive sampling technique was used to enrol the participants according to predetermined eligibility criteria. They were allocated into two groups. Group A received conventional physical therapy treatment and group B received dry needling for 3 weeks, 2 sessions per week. Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) were used to measure the outcomes before 1st treatment session and after last session. Paired sample t-test and independent sample t-test were applied to compare the results, and p?0.05 was considered significant. Results: Pre-treatment WOMAC score in group A was 50.07±11.835 and in group B it was 45.87±12.512. Post-treatment WOMAC score in group A was 38.87±13.731 and in group B it was 24.33±8.926. The scores improved in both groups, but group B showed significant improvement. Conclusion: Both conventional physical therapy and dry needling are effective to manage pain and functional limitation in patients with knee OA. Dry needling proved more effective compare to conventional physical therapy.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):48–52
AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE AMONGST MEDICINE AND ALLIED STUDENTS REGARDING CORONAVIRUS IN A UNIVERSITY IN KARACHI FOLLOWING AN OUTBREAK
Authors: Narejo Savera , Quarishy Maryam Saida , Effendi Fouzia Naeem , Khan Alishba , Abbas Farah Fatima , Akram Saadia , Obaid Munazza Suharwardy
Published: July 2024

Background: Awareness motivates one to adopt protective measures and enables them to spread the knowledge amongst their peers. The study was conducted to assess and compare the knowledge and awareness among Medical and Allied Students regarding COVID-19 at a University in Karachi, Sindh. Methods: This was a cross-sectional survey consisting of 23 close-ended items conducted online, amongst undergraduate Medical and Allied Students. Results: The 520 study participants filled out the web-based survey 232 (44.6%) from Medicine and 288 (55.4%) from Allied Sciences. The mean age of the study Participants were 21.18±1.784 years. The majority students were from medical 176 (33.8%) and medical technology field 108 (20.8%), followed by nursing, dental, physiotherapy and other allied health sciences departments. Awareness and knowledge regarding corona virus were found more in allied sciences students than in medical students (p=0.0001). Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge regarding COVID-19 were better allied sciences students than in medical students.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):58–62
PREVALENCE OF ANEMIA IN PREGNANT WOMEN
Authors: Hamid Kanza , Ajaz Madiha , Akhter Mehtab , Khan Sher Afghan , Sadiq Muhammad Shakil , Aitazaz Fauzia
Published: July 2024

Background: Anaemia is defined as a medical condition in which the red blood count or haemoglobin is lower than normal levels. Deficiency of haemoglobin can be due to lack of vitamin B12, folic acid and iron, extreme blood loss or nutrient-deficit diet. Anaemia during pregnancy is harmful both to mother and foetus. It can cause pre-mature delivery and birth defects. Iron supplementation is often recommended to pregnant women. The aim of study was to find out prevalence of anaemia in pregnant women. Methods: The study was carried out using quantitative methods. A sample of 300 participants was taken using purposive sampling technique. Socio-demographic data was collected from participants after informed consent. Haemoglobin levels were recorded for each participant using Blood Complete Picture already available with them. Results: There exists high prevalence (74.6%) of anaemia in pregnant women. The prevalence is much higher (80.3%) in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Low intake of meat was observed in 73% of the anaemic women. Low intake of other iron rich food was also observed in more than 50% of the participants. Only 93 participants had their MCV reports with them (53.7% among them had low MCV). This high rate of prevalence is associated with iron-deficient diet and unawareness about seriousness of the problem. Conclusion: There is high prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women associated with iron-deficient diet and lack of awareness. Introducing screening tests for anaemia, raising public awareness, and educating females about importance of nutrition diet are recommended.
Pak J Physiol 2021;18(1):16?9
MEDICAL SCIENCE LANGUAGES ACROSS HUMAN HISTORY
Authors: Iqbal Tehseen
Published: July 2024

The Edwin Smith Papyrus is written in ancient Egyptian language around 1,600 BC. The earliest foundations of Ayurveda medicine is written in Sanskrit dating from about 600 BC. The foundational text of Chinese medicine is the Huangdi neijing, (Yellow Emperor’s Inner Canon), written 5th century to 3rd century BC. The oldest written sources of western medicine are the Hippocratic writings from the 5th and 4th centuries BC written in Greek. During the Middle Ages (800–1,500 AD), Arabic was the language of medicine in most parts of the world. Scholars from different parts of the world were gathered in ‘Bait ul Hikma’ at Baghdad. They translated scientific works from Greek, Syriac, Pahlavi, and Sanskrit into Arabic. After Renaissance (14th AD), in Europe, both Greek and Arabic works were translated into Latin. Latin supplanted Greek as the preeminent medical language and remained so until the early 1800s. Then followed the era of the national medical languages. Since the 1950s, English has been the principal language of the medical profession. The global language of medicine in the 21st century is English.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(1):1?2
EFFECT OF TAURINE ON BIOMARKER OF OXIDATIVE STRESS IN SERUM OF HIGH FAT DIET-LOW DOSE STREPTOZOTOCIN INJECTED MODEL OF TYPE 2 DIABETIC RATS
Authors: Rasul Amina , Latif Nadia , Batool Aliya , Ali Sajid , Arshad Sidra , Siddique Lubna
Published: July 2024

Background: Oxidative stress plays a major role in the development of insulin resistance and pancreatic beta cell dysfunction. Taurine and beta-alanine have been documented to act as antioxidants. The aim of this study was to compare the antioxidant effect of taurine and beta-alanine in type 2 diabetic rats. Methods: This Laboratory based experimental study was conducted in Department of Physiology at Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, in collaboration with National Institute of Health, Islamabad, from July to Sep 2018. Ninety male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into three groups; diabetic control (DC), diabetic beta-alanine (DBA), and diabetic taurine group (DTau). All ninety rats were fed with taurine free-high fat diet for a period of four weeks, and administered low-dose streptozocin on the 14th day for the induction of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Also, DC rats were supplemented with 0.02% (w/v) taurine, DBA rats with 3% (w/v) beta-alanine, and DTau rats with 3% (w/v) taurine in their respective drinking water, for a period of four weeks. At day 21, plasma glucose levels and insulin resistance were measured to confirm development of type 2 diabetes mellitus in the three groups. At the end of four weeks, terminal intracardiac sampling was done to measure 8-isoprostane levels. Results: 8-isoprostane levels were significantly increased in diabetic group. Taurine supplementation ameliorated these effects as compared to beta-alanine. Conclusion: Taurine reduces oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(3):11?4
HISTOPATHOLOGY PRACTICAL SESSIONS AND THE THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE OF PATHOLOGY: CORRELATION AND STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION
Authors: Naveed Hania , Mudassir Ghazala , Ahmed Safina , Habib Maryam , Bhatti Mahwish Majid , Ahmed Rifat Nadeem
Published: July 2024

Background: Histopathology practical sessions constitute a substantial bulk of pathology teaching in undergraduate medical school. This study aimed to assess the correlation between students’ scores in histopathology practical and pathology theoretical examinations and to explore the students’ perception. Methods: It was a prospective observational study conducted amongst 109 third year medical students at Shifa College of Medicine from 1st June 2019 to 30th March 2020. The histopathology practical were conducted through traditional microscopy sessions. Mean histopathology summative scores of 9 modules were correlated with the respective block integrated practical examination (IPE) scores. The perception of students regarding histopathology practical was explored through a questionnaire which comprised of eight items to be rated on a three-point Likert scale. Results: Correlation between the mean summative score with their respective IPE scores showed weak positive correlation (Block I: r=0.489, p<0.0001; Block II: r=0.468, p<0.0001; Block III: r=0.445, p<0.0001). Performance in IPE was found to be a weak predictor of performance in summative examination with an adjusted R2 of 0.194 in block I, 0.199 in block II and 0.201 in block III (p<0.0001). The questionnaire responses showed that students have difficulty in understanding the microscopic findings and they find it difficult to correlate them with the theoretical knowledge. Conclusion: There was no significant correlation between the students’ scores in histopathology practical and pathology theoretical examinations. The practical sessions need to be consigned and innovated with theoretical/clinical relevance in demonstration to augment basic pathological theory concepts and learning.
Pak J Physiol 2022;18(4):27–30
CONSEQUENCES OF BRISK WALK, MODERATE INTENSITY CONTINUOUS AND HIGH INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING ON SHORT-TERM HEART RATE VARIABILITY IN HEALTHY YOUNG ADULTS
Authors: Abdullah Baig Muhammad Athar , Khan Humaira Fayyaz , Ali Shazia , Raziq Hammad , Siddique Abubakar , Munir Hina , Ambreen Shazadi
Published: July 2024

Background: Short term heart rate variability is a time saving non-invasive measure of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. This study was conducted to assess and compare the effect of walking, medium intensity continuous and high-intensity interval training exercise modalities on short-term heart rate variability. Methods: This experimental study was conducted at the Department of Physiology, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi, from August 2018 to August 2019. A total of 31 non-obese, healthy young individuals, free of comorbidities were included in the study. Participants were assigned through randomization to walk for 30 minutes intervention (n=10), medium intensity continuous training (MICT) intervention (n=11) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention (n=10). Intervention groups completed a total of 24 sessions in 7 weeks. Heart rate variability (HRV) analysis was performed by a 15-minute ECG recording before and after 24 sessions of intervention. ECGs were recorded by using the PowerLab® model 4/25T and the data were analysed using the software LabChart® Pro-8.0 with HRV 2.0 module installed. Results: After 24 sessions of 30-minute brisk walking exercise of 3,000 steps in an open area revealed a significant improvement in some HRV components when compared with pre-intervention levels of mean R-R interval (p=0.02), LFms2 (p=0.02) and LF/HF ratio (p=0.03). No significant differences were recorded after MICT and HIIT interventions among the groups. Conclusion: Compared to MICT and HIIT, a brisk walk in an open area was found to be effective mode of physical activity for improvement of HRV.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(1):21–5
A CRITICAL REVIEW OF UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES INTEGRATED MODULAR CURRICULUM FOR MBBS
Authors: Iqbal Tehseen
Published: July 2024

The University of Health Sciences Lahore has recently introduced an integrated modular curriculum (IMC) for its undergraduate MBBS program. There is no specific international obligation on Pakistan to follow an integrated modular curriculum for MBBS. Many medical schools in USA, UK, Australia and India have adopted and then left the integrated modular curriculum for undergraduate medical courses. Basic to clinical (vertical) integration is the problem of medical schools where basic medical sciences are taught by non-medical teachers. Pakistani medical colleges have physician teachers in all basic medical sciences. UHS curriculum has many flaws in designing, implementation and assessment. Without proper training of teachers, IMC is not suitable for Pakistan.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(2):1–2
WORKPLACE BASED CHALLENGES FOR POSTGRADUATE TRAINEE DOCTORS WORKING IN A PUBLIC SECTOR HOSPITAL
Authors: Zaheer Sadia , Khalid Waqas , Butt Usman Shahid , Rana Sanober , Khan Anwar
Published: July 2024

Background: Workplace-based challenges are experiences that are seen as inappropriate by the person experiencing or observing the challenge. These challenges may arise every day in different situations or may be a one off incident that is disturbing and affects one’s productivity. The study aims to identify and analyse the major hurdles that healthcare professionals encounter in their daily practice. Methods: A qualitative approach was employed to collect data from a diverse group of doctors at a public sector hospital in Sialkot. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in groups from different departments of the hospital in 2023. The consenting participants were interviewed regarding the challenges they face day to day working in government setup. Themes were extracted and data was tabulated to draw results. Results: We interviewed 21 consenting doctors from different departments mainly, Medicine, Surgery, Paediatrics and Gynaecology and identified six main themes which were high workload, security threats, financial Issues, resource constraints, time constraints, and inadequate work-life and personal-life balance. Amongst the 21 doctors, (47.62%) were females and (52.38%) were males. the challenges of high workload was stated by all (100%) of the participants, followed by security threats (91.5%), resource constraints (85.7%), financial issues (76.1%), time constraints (71%) and work and personal life imbalance (71.4%). Conclusion: Doctors reported significant levels of work-related stress, poor work-life balance, inadequate work capacity, and about one-third of them burned out, a sign of unfavourable working conditions.
Pak J Physiol 2023;19(4):15–8
EFFECTS OF WALNUT LEAVES EXTRACT ON EFFICACY OF DAPAGLIFLOZIN IN TYPE II DIABETIC MICE
Authors: Raja Adeel Abbas , Waheed Akbar , Uzma Naeem  , Iftikhar Jawaria , Ammarah Amjad  , Maleeha Abbas
Published: July 2024

Background: With a rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus its becoming more important than ever to find new strategies to prevent and cure the disease. Objective of this study was to assess the effects of walnut leaves extract on the efficacy of dapagliflozin in type 2 diabetic mice. Methods: It was experimental, randomized control study. A total of 50 male Balb/c mice were included in this study and randomly divided into two groups: Group 1 (Normal Control) consisting of 10 mice and Group 2 (experimental group) of 40 mice. The experimental group was further divided into 4 groups of 10 mice each following induction of type 2 diabetes: Group 2 (Disease Control), Group 3 (Ethanolic walnut leaves extract treated), Group 4 (Dapagliflozin treated) and Group 5 (Combination of dapagliflozin and ethanolic walnut leaves extract treated) for a duration of 45 days. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS-27. One-way ANOVA (post hoc Tukey test) was used to compare the means of HbA1c among groups, and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mice treated with walnut leaves extract (Group 3), dapagliflozin (Group 4), and the combination of walnut leaves extract and dapagliflozin (Group 5) exhibited significantly reduced serum HbA1c levels compared to those observed in the diabetic control group (p<0.05). Conclusions: The combined administration of walnut leaves extract and dapagliflozin leads to a significant decrease in serum HbA1c levels in diabetic mice, as compared to mice treated with walnut leaves extract or dapagliflozin alone.
Pak J Physiol 2013;19(4):26?8
EFFECT OF ITEM WRITING FLAWS IN MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS ON STUDENTS’ ACHIEVEMENT GROUPS AND RELIABILITIES OF TESTS IN AZAD JAMMU KASHMIR MEDICAL COLLEGE
Authors: Awan Sarmud Latif , Manzoor Shagufta , Gillani Irum , Kayani Ziyad Afzal , Khurshid Sahar , Farooq Humza
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND: MCQs can test different levels of cognitive knowledge from recall to analysis. This study was to determine the item writing flaws in multiple choice questions and their effects on students’ academic achievements and test reliabilities. Methods: This study was conducted at the Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) Medical College Muzaffarabad from December 2017 to June 2019. Ten end-of-block exams were used in this study. The item review committee went over every MCQ. Two tests from each class of MBBS were taken. The initial tests without being reviewed were deemed to be flawed tests. The outcomes of each test were assessed, and the students were ranked into three achievement levels high, moderate, and low based on their scores of >79.9, between 50 and 79.9, and <50%, respectively. After removal of flawed items from the exams, the scores of each test (the standard test) were calculated, compared to the flawed tests, and its impacts were evaluated among three achievement groups. The post-exam analysis of test items was done on optical mark reading (OMR) classic-4 programme and data analysis on SPSS-25.  Results: In one test i.e. test no 6 the null hypothesis was rejected with p<0.05. However, in all other tests null hypothesis could not be rejected on statistical basis. Moderate achievers and low achievers had statistically significant correlation (p<0.05). The flawed tests had better reliabilities with statistically significant (p<0.05). Conclusion:   Flawed MCQs had negative impact on high and moderate achievers. Reliabilities of flawed test were greater than standard tests.
PREVALENCE OF CARDIAC AUTONOMIC NEUROPATHY AMONG TYPE 2 DIABETICS AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Authors: Ishfaq Muhammad , Saleem Sadiq , Qadir Imran , Amanullah  , Akbar Saima , Humayun Sidra
Published: July 2024

Background: In the context of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the frequency of cardiac autonomic neuropathy has become a subject of intensive research. Understanding the prevalence and associated risk factors is pivotal for early detection, intervention, and improved patient outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of cardiac autonomic neuropathy in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Department of Medicine, Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from 16th Nov 2022 to 16 May 2023 on patients presenting with type 2 diabetes in the age group 20?75 years. Pregnant women, patients with end-stage renal disease and neurological abnormalities were excluded. The frequency of cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) was determined. Results: There was a total of 260 patients presenting with type 2 Diabetes mellitus during the study period. The mean age of the patients was 50.36±15.56 years. The frequency of cardiac autonomic neuropathy was 92 (35.4%), 62 were male and 30 were female. Conclusion: Cardiac autonomic neuropathy is a common micro-vascular complication in T2DM with duration of diabetes, age, and other microvascular complications being the significant contributors to its pathogenesis and severity.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(2):11-3
UTILITY OF ATHEROGENIC INDEX OF PLASMA AS A CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTOR IN SUB-CLINICAL HYPOTHYROID PATIENTS
Authors: Rehman Saqibah , Munir Muhammad Usman , Khan Muhammad Qaiser Alam , Haroon Zujaja Hina , Younas Muhammad , Anwar Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Background: Atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) is a reliable indicator of the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. The objective of this study was to assess the AIP as a cardiovascular risk factor in subclinical hypothyroid patients, in predicting cardiovascular risk in patients of subclinical hypothyroidism. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital-based laboratory. Patients with Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) values between 4.5–10 IU/L and normal T4 were enrolled in the study. The participants were tested after fasting 8–10 hours and at least 3 days of fat-free diet for lipid profile analyzed on an automated chemistry analyzer. Data were analysed using SPSS-22. The odds ratio test was used to assess the risk of outcome keeping 1 as a positive measure to encounter outcome. Results: A total of 170 patients were enrolled in the study. Their mean age was 44.7±10.8 years. The AIP results indicated 118 (69.4%) as high risk, 41 (24.1%) as intermediate risk, and 11 (6.4%) as low risk (p<0.001). The assessment of outcome risk results indicated a positive association of exposure to outcome in TSH value of 6–7 mIU/L as OR 2.15 (CI: 1.81–4.13) while TSH value of 8–9 mIU/L as OR 1.08 (CI: 0.71–2.16). Conclusion: Sub-clinical hypothyroidism is associated with a higher risk of AIP especially with TSH levels of 4–8 mIU/L and age group of <50 years.
Pak J Physiol 2024;20(2):7-10
CORRELATION OF DIASTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE WITH HIGH SENSITIVITY C-REACTIVE PROTEIN IN MIDDLE AGED CORONARY HEART DISEASE PATIENTS
Authors: Haleem Nadia , Zahra Musarat , Ayesha Naureen Awan  , Sarwat Abbasi  , Alruba Taimoor  , Matiullah Khan
Published: July 2024

Background and objectives: C-reactive protein is a plasma protein to determine the levels of inflammation inside our body. There are low levels of CRP in our blood but moderate to severe elevated levels can be seen in bacterial infection and any other autoimmune diseases. Hypertension is considered to be the significant risk factor in coronary heart disease. Our objective of study is to determine the correlation of hs-CRP with diastolic blood pressure in middle aged coronary heart disease individuals.
Methods: This is a descriptive cross sectional study conducted among two groups i.e coronary heart disease and control (n=150). Their CRP levels as well as two readings of diastolic blood pressure are taken. Data and results collected, compiled and analyzed with SPSS version 23.
Results:  Hypertension is an important risk factor for coronary events. Results of our study has shown strong correlation between CRP and diastolic blood pressure  having mean values about 146.3±2.14 (P< 0.001) in coronary heart disease individuals and 92.14±17.14 in control group ( P value 0.008).
Conclusion: It was observed that hs-crp has strong association with diastolic blood pressure in middle aged coronary heart disease individuals.
The Impact of Religion and Culture on Political Corruption in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State: A Case Study of 2015 General Elections
Authors: Adeleke James Kehinde , Bukola Victoria James
Published: July 2024

This study examines the impact of religion and culture on political corruption in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State in reference to 2015 general elections. Many local governments in Nigeria lack many developments, social amenities, health facilities, rural development and power supply due to the syndrome of corruption and autonomy independence to control their resources without the state interference due to that scenario, lack of accountability, lack of credible leadership, instability of political and socioeconomic development as take place. Culture and religion as influenced voting patterns of the electorate during the 2015 Presidential general elections. The impacts of corruption on the politics of the country include the crisis of legitimacy, lack of party ideology, weak political institutions; economic underdevelopment and political violence and the role of “Godfatherism” as initiated electoral corruption. Some power brokers with sufficient financial muscles sponsored their anointed godsons for political offices in return for lucrative contracts and spoils of the public treasury looting. They sponsored thugs, bribed the electoral stakeholders, and influenced voters through vote buying and all sorts of electoral manipulation to ensure that their candidates scale through and control power at all levels. The questionnaire and the structured questions formulated by the researchers were given to project supervisor, who criticized and that the instruments are validated, for they were seen measuring what were expected to measure. Findings revealed that a total number of 30 respondents represented (22.3%) candidate’s choice, 27 respondents represented (20.1%) election campaign, 23 respondents represented (17.1%) family background, while 54 respondents represented (40.2%) religious belief. This implies that majority of the respondents in this study agreed that religious belief is the means by which religion and culture influenced the voting pattern of Akinyele Local Government Area in the 2015 general elections. The study recommends that all candidates contesting for any political office must declare their assets publicly to avoid cases of corruption.