Showing papers in "Medical Principles and Practice in 2010"
TL;DR: It is suggested that programming is a product of altered expression of key genes that drives the tissue remodelling response and future disease risk, and that minor perturbation of maternal nutritional status can programme fetal development.
Abstract: Variation in the quality or quantity of nutrients consumed during pregnancy can exert permanent and powerful effects upon the developing fetus. This programming of fetal development is emerging as a new risk factor for non-communicable diseases of adulthood, including coronary heart disease and the metabolic syndrome. Epidemiological studies show that indicators of nutritional deficit in pregnancy are associated with greater risk of diabetes and cardiovascular mortality. The study of programming in relation to disease processes has been advanced by the development of animal models, which have utilized both under- and overfeeding of specific nutrients in pregnancy. Studies of this nature support the nutritional programming hypothesis and provide tools with which to examine the mechanisms through which programming may occur. Studies of animals subject to undernutrition in utero generally exhibit changes in the structure of key organs, such as the kidney and pancreas. These effects are consistent with the concept that programming influences remodel the development of organs. The causal pathways which extend from tissue remodelling to disease processes are relatively well characterised. In contrast, the processes which drive disordered organ development are poorly understood. It is noteworthy that minor perturbation of maternal nutritional status can programme fetal development. It is suggested therefore that programming is a product of altered expression of key genes. This drives the tissue remodelling response and future disease risk.
204 citations
TL;DR: The study showed that self-medication was common among all University of Ljubljana students, but that healthcare-related education in students and young adults led to more responsible use of self-Medication.
Abstract: Objective: To determine the incidence of self-medication among University of Ljubljana students and the effect of the type of curriculum on the pattern of self-medication.
132 citations
TL;DR: Perhaps the most promising approach is reversal of corticosteroid resistance through increasing histone deacetylase-2 activity, which might be achieved by theophylline-like drugs, phosphoinositide 3 kinase-δ inhibitors, more effective antioxidants and non-antibiotic macrolides.
Abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major global health problem which is increasing throughout the world and a major cause of death. However, current therapies fail to prevent disease pr
85 citations
TL;DR: A high percentage of the uropathogens causing UTI in the Al-Amiri Hospital setting was highly resistant to the first- and second-line antibiotics for the therapy of UTI.
Abstract: Objective: Our purpose was to determine the bacterial profile and prevalence of antibiotic resistance patterns of uropathogens, as well as evaluate the problem with extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) producing isolates, causing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in Al-Amiri Hospital, Kuwait, over a 3-year period. Materials and Methods: Isolates (56,505) from symptomatic UTI cases from January 2005 to December 2007 were identified by conventional methods and the VITEK identification card system. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by disk diffusion method for Gram-positive organisms and an automated VITEK 2 machine for Gram-negative organisms. ESBL production by the Enterobacteriaceae was detected by the double-disk diffusion method and VITEK-2 system. Results: Significant bacteriuria was detected in 15,064 (26.6%) of the 56,505 urine samples. Escherichia coli accounted for 4,876 (54.9%) from community-acquired UTI (CA-UTI) and 2,253 (36.4%) from hospital-acquired UTI (HA-UTI), followed by Streptococcus agalactiae (1,129, 12.7%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (962, 10.8%) from CA-UTI cases. Candida spp. (973, 15.7%) and K. pneumoniae (747, 12.1%) were the second and third most prevalent isolates, respectively, in HA-UTI. High resistance rates were observed among the Enterobacteriaceae against ampicillin, cephalothin, ciprofloxacin, piperacillin and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. About 855 (12%) and 291 (17%) of E. coli and K. pneumoniae, respectively, were resistant to ≧4 antibiotics. The prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae in CA-UTI was 12 and 17% and in HA-UTI 26 and 28%, respectively. Conclusion: A high percentage of the uropathogens causing UTI in the Al-Amiri Hospital setting was highly resistant to the first- and second-line antibiotics for the therapy of UTI. ESBL-producing bacteria are highly prevalent in our hospital.
66 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present a review of landmark studies that demonstrate the principles of nonpharmacological approaches to the reduction of cardiometabolic risk, and discuss the physiological and emerging molecular genetic mechanisms underlie the efficacy of lifestyle interventions.
Abstract: The components of the metabolic syndrome, including prediabetes, prehypertension and dyslipidemia, represent prodromal stages of major cardiometabolic disorders. Lifestyle interventions have been shown to ameliorate or prevent the progression of individual components of the metabolic syndrome. The specific interventions utilized in randomized controlled studies often include dietary modification and physical activity. The effects of smoking cessation and the reduction of psychosocial stress on cardiometabolic risk factors need to be studied more. Because of the close concordance between the metabolic syndrome and multiple cardiometabolic diseases, the adoption of an effective lifestyle change upon initial recognition of the metabolic syndrome can be expected to delay or prevent the future development of sequelae such as diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Such a nonpharmacological approach to primary prevention and disease interruption carries enormous public health significance. Meeting the challenge of an implementation of effective lifestyle change at the community level requires (a) a system for the identification of at-risk populations, (b) an optimization of the knowledge base and practices of health care providers, and (c) a piloting of targeted biobehavioral intervention programs. Once identified, persons and communities at risk for cardiometabolic disorders can be empowered through increased health and nutritional literacy, the promotion of lifestyle interventions, provision of community resources, and pertinent legislative action that rewards preventive behavior. This paper reviews landmark studies that demonstrate the principles of nonpharmacological approaches to the reduction of cardiometabolic risk. We also discuss the physiological and emerging molecular genetic mechanisms that underlie the efficacy of lifestyle interventions.
62 citations
TL;DR: Suprapubic aspiration showed the lowest contamination rate and sterile urine bag showed the highest contamination rate among 4 methods of urine sample collection, which increased the cost of urine culture.
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of urine sample collection methods among children suspected of having urinary tract infections. Subjects and Methods: Four methods for urine sample collection were evaluated in 1,067 children aged 0–16 years with suspected urinary tract infections over 2 months at Dr. Sami Ulus Children’s Hospital. Within 30 min of collection, all specimens were sent to the laboratory, refrigerated and processed according to standard hospital microbiological procedures. Urine samples were analyzed using routine culture techniques. Results: At initial sending of the urine culture, 617 (57.8%) had negative culture results, 145 (13.6%) had positive culture results, and 305 (28.6%) had evidence of bacterial contamination. Clean catch specimens showed a contamination rate of 14.3% and urethral catheterization specimens showed a similar contamination rate (14.3%). However, urethral catheterization was preferred in only a small number of cases (n = 7). Suprapubic aspiration was also used in a small number of cases (n: 11) and the contamination rate for suprapubic aspiration was 9.1% (n: 1/11). The contamination rate for sterile urine bag was 43.9%, significantly higher than the other methods (p Conclusion: Suprapubic aspiration showed the lowest contamination rate and sterile urine bag showed the highest contamination rate among 4 methods of urine sample collection. Contaminated specimens, needed to be repeated and this procedure increased the cost of urine culture. In conclusion, measures should be taken to reduce the contamination rate in our center. This is an area where further investigation is required.
59 citations
TL;DR: Ductal adenocarcinoma can have a patchy basal cell layer and typically expresses prostate-specific antigen (PSA) immunohistochemically, comparable to Gleason pattern 4 prostate cancer.
Abstract: Prostatic ductal adenocarcinomas may arise either in large primary periurethral prostatic ducts or in the peripheral prostatic ducts. Ductal adenocarcinomas are composed of tall columnar cells arranged in cribriform, papillary, solid, single glands, and PIN-like patterns. Other than the prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN)-like ductal pattern, which behaves like Gleason pattern 3, ductal adenocarcinoma is comparable to Gleason pattern 4 prostate cancer. Ductal adenocarcinoma can have a patchy basal cell layer and typically expresses prostate-specific antigen (PSA) immunohistochemically. Mimickers of ductal adenocarcinoma include prostatic urethral polyps, hyperplastic benign prostate glands, high-grade PIN, colorectal adenocarcinoma, and papillary urothelial carcinoma.
57 citations
TL;DR: This study showed that surgery plus immediate postoperative irradiation was an effective and relatively safe choice for treatment of keloids, and although cryotherapy combined with intralesional steroids was associated with more side effects and higher relapse rates, it could be a good choice for small and newly formed keloid.
Abstract: Objective: To compare the efficacy and tolerability of surgical excision and radiotherapy with those of cryotherapy and intralesional steroid treatment of keloids. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-six patients with a total of 76 keloids were enrolled in this study. Nineteen patients with 44 keloids underwent surgical excision combined with immediate 12-Gy irradiation (group A) while the remaining 9 patients with 32 keloids received multiple sessions of intralesional steroid treatment after cryotherapy which continued until flattening of lesion(s) occurred (group B). Two patients were included in both treatment groups. All patients were followed up at regular intervals for at least 1 year. Results: In both treatment groups, keloids responded well without any major side effect. While patients of group A were all satisfied, those of group B (with a mean number of treatment sessions of 5.84 ± 2.51) experienced more side effects, a more prolonged course, a higher recurrence rate and less satisfaction. Conclusion: This study showed that surgery plus immediate postoperative irradiation was an effective and relatively safe choice for treatment of keloids. Although cryotherapy combined with intralesional steroids was associated with more side effects and higher relapse rates, it could be a good choice for small and newly formed keloids.
55 citations
TL;DR: There was a statistically significant increase in the phagocytic and intracellular killing activities of PMNs of patients receiving specific immunotherapy, especially after the addition of N. sativa seed.
Abstract: Objective: To investigate the effects of Nigella sativa seed supplementation on symptom levels, polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) functions, lymphocyte subsets an
49 citations
TL;DR: MEZZ produced antiinflammatory and antinociceptive activities which may involve the inhibition of bradykinin-, prostaglandin-, histamine- and opioid-mediated processes.
Abstract: Objective: The present study was carried out to determine the antiinflammatory and antinociceptive activities of a methanol extract of Zingiber zerumbet rhizomes
48 citations
TL;DR: There was no significant association between ACE I/D, PAI-1 4G/5G and NOS3 4a/4b and the occurrence of first-trimester RM.
Abstract: Objective: This study was conducted to investigate the correlation between spontaneous recurrent miscarriage (RM) and common polymorphisms in angiotensin-converting enzyme
TL;DR: A one-time phenol application was an effective treatment for pilonidal disease with acceptable wound healing rates, less postoperative pain and less time off work, and can be an alternative treatment modality.
Abstract: Objective: To investigate wound healing rates and postoperative recovery of patients after a one-time phenol application for pilonidal disease. Subjects and Methods: A total 30 consecutive patients with chronic pilonidal disease ranging from midline to complex sinuses were enrolled in the study. No preoperative laboratory examinations or bowel preparation were required. No antibiotic prophylaxis or sedation was used. A small incision was made on the midline and hair/debris in the sinuses was removed. A cotton swab with saturated phenol was moved into the cavity and the phenol was left for 2 min. No special dressing was necessary and patients left the hospital immediately afterwards. Patients filled out a daily questionnaire for 7 days. We did not intervene in the wounds with a second phenol application or curettage during the observation period. Wounds were inspected at weekly intervals for 2 months. Results: At the end of the third day, 97% of the patients were pain-free and 100% of the patients were free from analgesics. Time off work was 2 days for most patients (93.3%). Twenty-eight (93.3%) patients were satisfied with the procedure, they found it easy and painless and suggested the procedure to other patients. Twenty-five (83%) patients were asymptomatic at the end of 2 months’ observation and the remaining 5 patients had unhealed sinuses. Mean time for wound healing was 25 days (range 10–63 days). There were 4 recurrences after a mean of 14 months’ follow-up and the overall success rate was 70%. Conclusions: A one-time phenol application was an effective treatment for pilonidal disease with acceptable wound healing rates, less postoperative pain and less time off work. Hence it can be an alternative treatment modality.
TL;DR: The data show that gabapentin not only reduced PONV after open cholecystectomy, but also reduced the need for additional postoperative analgesics.
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the effect of gabapentin on the incidence and severity of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) after open cholecystectomy. Subjects and Methods:&
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that women in the state of Penang have serious knowledge deficits about breast cancer and poor awareness of BSE and CBE guidelines, which has highlighted the need of an intensive breast cancer awareness campaign.
Abstract: Objective: The objective of this study was to assess and compare the knowledge and perception of breast cancer among women of various ethnic groups in the state of Penang.
TL;DR: Smoking among Iranian dental students is similar to their socioeconomic group, and is associated with the characteristics of their background, such as gender and father’s level of education, as well as the quality of OSC.
Abstract: Objective: The objective of the present study was to investigate smoking habits of Iranian dental students in relation to their background characteristics and oral self-care (OSC). Subjects and Methods: A survey in the form of a questionnaire was conducted of 327 senior dental students in seven randomly selected state dental schools in Iran. In addition to smoking habits and background characteristics, the students were asked about OSC. A recommended level of OSC was defined as a combination of brushing at least twice a day, frequent use of fluoridated toothpaste, and eating sugary snacks less than daily. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 263 students (113 males and 150 females) completely answered the questions and were included in the analyses. Results: Of the 263 students, 59 (23%, 37 males and 22 females) reported current smoking (cigarette, pipe, or water pipe). Current smoking was associated with male gender (OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.4–5.6), level of father’s education (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.1–1.8), and OSC (OR = 4.4, 95% CI = 1.3–14.9). Conclusion: Smoking among Iranian dental students is similar to their socioeconomic group, and is associated with the characteristics of their background, such as gender and father’s level of education, as well as the quality of OSC. The results indicate a need to include smoking cessation education and public health activities in the dental curriculum to provide future health care professionals and role models for patients with adequate training in up-to-date patient management to control smoking.
TL;DR: Various problems related to the use and storage at home of OTC and prescription drugs were revealed and the need for public educational efforts on the rational use of medicines at home is urgent to foster awareness of the proper use of drugs.
Abstract: Objectives: To investigate the habits of use and home storage of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription drugs. Subjects and Methods: A pretested questionnaire was distributed to university students who represented 300 household units in different regions of the northern United Arab Emirates. Household chairs (parents) answered questions on various aspects of home use and storage of OTC and prescription medicines. The number of drugs stored at home was collapsed into 5 unequal groups (1–3, 4–6, 7–10, 11–15 and 16–20). Results: The response rate was 300 (100%). The average number of drugs per household unit was 6 items. Almost 40% of the participants stored between 16 and 20 drugs. More than half (56%) of the household units stored medicines in a home pharmacy kept either in the bedroom (n = 66; 39%) or in the kitchen (n = 71; 42%). No correlation was found between the level of education and the number of family members (r = 0.29) or drugs stored at home (r = –0.35). Only 2 (0.7%) of the participants did not keep drugs at home. There was a clear discrepancy in either OTC or prescription drugs stored, and the variation in the utilization and preference of drugs was obvious among the pooled sample. Conclusion: Various problems related to the use and storage at home of OTC and prescription drugs were revealed. Discussing the results of this survey with students who participated as members of the household units that took part in the study may prove to be a helpful intervention. The need for public educational efforts on the rational use of medicines at home is urgent to foster awareness of the proper use of drugs.
TL;DR: This study shows that the knowledge of and attitude towards stroke risk factors in the general population of Shiraz are adequate and by using the public media and school education, it is possible to promote the level of the population’s knowledge and attitude toward stroke.
Abstract: Objectives: To assess the baseline knowledge regarding stroke risk factors, symptoms, treatment and information resources in an Iranian urban population. Subjects and Methods: A community-based face-to-face interview survey was conducted in the Shiraz urban area in Iran. A total of 385 potential participants between the ages of 15 and 83 years were randomly selected from people referred to Motahari Clinic, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz. All the participants answered the 63 questions about different aspects of stroke. SPSS software version 15 was used to analyze the data. Results: The 385 participants completed the face-to-face interview. The most common risk factors for stroke identified by respondents were hypertension (342; 88.8%) and smoking (338; 87.8%). The most common warning signs of stroke were abdominal pain (370; 96.1%) and chest pain (338; 88.7%). Conclusion: This study shows that the knowledge of and attitude towards stroke risk factors in the general population of Shiraz are adequate. By using the public media and school education, it is possible to promote the level of the population’s knowledge of and attitude towards stroke.
TL;DR: Dichloromethane extract exhibited the strongest anti-acne-inducing bacterial effect and this extract yielded the highest amount of α-mangostin.
Abstract: Objective: The aims of this study were to determine the most effective solvent extract of mangosteen, anti-acne- inducing bacterial activity and the amount of α-mangostin, a major a
TL;DR: The results indicate that the increased oxidative stress levels using the d-ROM test, independent of aging and increased LDL-C levels, may be associated with carotid atherosclerosis even in hypercholesterolemic patients.
Abstract: Objective: It was the aim of this study to investigate whether there is any relationship between oxidative stress, as assessed by the diacron reactive oxygen metabolite (d-ROM) test, and carotid atherosclerosis among hypercholesterolemic patients. Subjects and Methods: A well-defined group of patients with type II hypercholesterolemia (n = 81, mean age 59 years) was studied to observe the correlation between the levels of serum d-ROMs and carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) using B-mode ultrasound, in relation to the traditional atherosclerotic risk factors (age, sex, smoking, body mass index, blood pressure, glucose and lipid panels). Results: The mean level in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in this population was 4.45 mmol/l, d-ROMs were 323.2 Carr U, and IMT was 0.91 mm. A multiple regression analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between IMT and d-ROMs (β = 0.27, p Conclusion: These results indicate that the increased oxidative stress levels using the d-ROM test, independent of aging and increased LDL-C levels, may be associated with carotid atherosclerosis even in hypercholesterolemic patients.
TL;DR: The results show Pilonidal sinus disease is a disease of young men that results in prolonged time off from work, its incidence being approximately 1 in 1,000 and there is a wide range of therapies and still controversy about the management of the condition.
Abstract: retention, while others may seem silent. From histological evaluation of so-called incidental sinuses we know that every sinus is accompanied by acute, chronic or mixed acute-chronic tissue inflammation, even if it may seem clinically uninflamed [6] . Thus varying degrees of inflammation may bias the effects of treatment, wound healing and recurrence. Thirdly, from recent long-term examinations we know that recurrence rate is a function of time. Pilonidal sinus recurrences may occur from the time of surgery up to 22 years and beyond. Putting this into a time frame, 60% of all recurrences will be seen within 5 years [7] . This has been proven on more than 500 patients, who received long-term follow-up of 2 decades. It is therefore obvious that a very short-term follow-up will result in very low recurrence rate. As a benchmark, the 5and 10-year recurrence rate is the new gold standard. The authors of the presented study [8] enrolled 30 consecutive pilonidal sinus patients within 4 months for the study, which makes them a high-volume hospital in terms of pilonidal sinus surgery. They treated them with incision of tracts and the pilonidal cave, adding phenol liquid cauterization, dressing and 1 week’s daily follow-up to that therapy. They followed up patient satisfaction and if patients recommended their therapy to fellow patients. Some remarks need to be added to this small study with a 14-month mean follow-up time. Firstly, the results show Pilonidal sinus disease is a disease of young men that results in prolonged time off from work, its incidence being approximately 1 in 1,000. Now, 129 years after the first description of pilonidal sinus disease, there is a wide range of therapies and still controversy about the management of the condition. The only cure may be surgery, but every new conservative method needs to be thoroughly examined and compared with established methods in terms of aggressiveness and effectiveness. This is the case with phenol treatment of pilonidal sinus disease. First instituted in 1964 by Maurice and Greenwood [1] , they found a recurrence rate of 19% after 18 months of follow-up. Twenty-four studies using phenol have been published since then, with patient numbers up to 143, follow-up periods between 1 month [2] and 98 months [3] , and a recurrence rate between 9% [4] and 19% [5] . Recurrence rates vary widely and there are some explanations for this inconsistency. Firstly, pilonidal sinus disease is thought to be an acquired disease of hair interrupting the skin integrity, thus forming persisting epithelial tracts around hair. If tracts containing hair are only removed or destroyed partially, remnants will persist in the deeper layers of the skin, acting as a source of recurrent disease. Secondly, success and failure of pilonidal sinus therapy depend on the degree of inflammation of the pilonidal sinus, which is especially true for phenol treatment. Some sinuses present with overt inflammation and
TL;DR: The epidemiology, host range, clinical features, prophylaxis and treatment options, and preventative measures recommended for AIV with an emphasis on H5N1 are reviewed.
Abstract: Avian influenza is an important zoonotic disease that has become endemic in Southeast Asia and in the case of highly pathogenic H5N1 has caused significant human mortality and morbidity. Avian influenza virus (AIV) infections may be asymptomatic or present as mild conjunctivitis in humans; however, H5N1 infections may present as severe pneumonia progressing to acute respiratory disease syndrome, multiorgan dysfunction syndrome and death. Since 2003, there have been a total of 436 cases and 262 deaths due to H5N1 infections. The number of cases has decreased steadily since 2006; however, the emergence of multiple genetically distinct sublineages of H5N1 has continued. These emerging sublineages display varying levels of drug resistance and in some cases an increased preference for binding to human α2,6-linked sialic acid cellular receptors. Though H5N1 has not shown efficient transmissibility between humans, the rapid evolution of the virus presents a concern for the emergence of a virus with this capability. Here we review the epidemiology, host range, clinical features, prophylaxis and treatment options, and preventative measures recommended for AIV with an emphasis on H5N1.
TL;DR: Hypertension was highly prevalent among older rural adults in Liaoning Province, and it was associated with many factors, which underscore the urgent need to strengthen the public health education and blood pressure monitoring system to better manage hypertension among older adults in rural China.
Abstract: Objective: The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of hypertension and associated factors among older rural adults in Liaoning Province, China. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted in 2004–2006, using a multistage, stratified clustering sampling scheme to select a representative sample. A total of 10,065 adults aged 60 years or older were examined. A survey of blood pressure and associated factors was carried out. All data analyses were conducted using SPSS 11.5 statistical software package. Results: Overall, the prevalence rates of hypertension are 57, 64.4 and 64.9% for the age groups 60–69, 70–79 and ≥80 years, respectively. The prevalence of hypertension was positively correlated with age, female gender, Mongolian ethnicity, overweight and obesity, smoking and drinking, whereas income level was a protective factor for hypertension. The rates of awareness, treatment and control among older rural adults were very low (overall 35.2, 28.7 and 1.0%, respectively). Conclusion: Hypertension was highly prevalent among older rural adults in Liaoning Province, and it was associated with many factors. The percentages of hypertensives who were aware, treated, and controlled were very low. These data underscore the urgent need to strengthen the public health education and blood pressure monitoring system to better manage hypertension among older adults in rural China.
TL;DR: The aqueous extract of T. indica possesses potential antinociceptive activity at both the peripheral and central levels, which is mediated via activation of the opioidergic mechanism.
Abstract: Objective: To study the effects of Tamarindus indica L. aqueous fruit extract on the antinociceptive activities in rodent models. Methods: The
TL;DR: Judging from data on two governorates, the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and heart disease is likely to have increased to alarmingly high levels among older Kuwaitis, highlighting the need for focused intervention programs in order to reduce morbidity and increase healthy life years.
Abstract: Objective: To provide community-based information on the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and heart disease and to highlight their significant correlates. Materials and
TL;DR: The data showed that 12 mg of ropivacaine and 8 mg of bupivicaine with 20 µg fentanyl in spinal anaesthesia can provide sufficient motor and sensory block for major orthopaedic surgery in geriatric patients.
Abstract: Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the haemodynamic and anaesthetic effects of 12 mg ropivacaine and 8 mg bupivacaine, both with 20 µg fentanyl, in spinal anaesthesia for major orthopaedic surgery in geriatric patients. Subjects and Methods: Sixty American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) II–III patients scheduled for hip arthroplasty were randomly assigned to receive an intrathecal injection of either 12 mg ropivacaine with 20 µg fentanyl (group R, aged 70 ± 7 years, range 67–89) or 8 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine with 20 µg fentanyl (group B, aged 69 ± 6 years, range 66–92). Motor and sensory block, haemodynamics and side effects were recorded. Results: Mean levels of sensory block were similar, but the onset time of sensory block in group B (2.52 ± 0.69 min) was shorter than that in group R (3.17–0.72 min); the difference was statistically significant (p Conclusions: The data showed that 12 mg of ropivacaine and 8 mg of bupivacaine with 20 µg fentanyl in spinal anaesthesia can provide sufficient motor and sensory block for major orthopaedic surgery in geriatric patients. However, ropivacaine caused less motor block and haemodynamic side effects than bupivacaine during the procedure.
TL;DR: SNP-44 polymorphism of the calpain-10 gene has a significant association with T2DM patients in the Gaza strip and certain polymorphisms of cal pain-10 also have associations with the levels of total cholesterol in both T2 DM patients and controls.
Abstract: Objective: To examine the role of calpain-10 SNP-44, -43, -63 and del/ins-19 in genetic susceptibility to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associations with triglycerides and total cholesterol in a group of subjects residing in the Gaza Strip. Subjects and Methods: Ninety-six individuals were examined: 48 T2DM patients and 48 controls. The groups were genotyped for calpain-10 SNP-44, -43, -63, and del/ins-19. Mutagenically separated polymerase chain reaction was used to examine SNP-44; del/ins-19 was examined by electrophoresis of the PCR product on agarose gel, while the restriction fragment length polymorphism method was used for SNP-43 and -63. Results: There was evidence that the C allele at SNP-44 played a possible role in susceptibility to T2DM (p = 0.01). T2DM patients with G/A genotype were found to have higher levels of total cholesterol in comparison to those homozygous for allele 1 (G/G) in SNP-43. Total cholesterol levels increased in T2DM patients who are homozygous for del/ins-19 allele 2, in T2DM patients with the 121/221 haplotype combination, and in control subjects with the haplotype combination 111/121. Conclusion: SNP-44 polymorphism of the calpain-10 gene has a significant association with T2DM patients in the Gaza strip. Certain polymorphisms of calpain-10 also have associations with the levels of total cholesterol in both T2DM patients and controls.
TL;DR: It can be concluded that the three types of exercise training reduced plasma lactate concentration, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, and further protected the body against oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and DNA damage) during 3-dimensional space exercise.
Abstract: Objective: Orbotron training is a popular training method for fighter pilots because it replicates a high-acceleration environment with excessive G-force. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 9 weeks of orbotron training on oxidative DNA damage and antioxidant capacity in humans during 3-dimensional space exercise. Subjects and Methods: The subjects comprised 15 senior cadets from the Korea Air Force Academy who had no record of medical disorders and who participated in a regular exercise program (3 times per week). They were randomly divided into three groups consisting of 5 subjects each: a weight training group (21.97 ± 1.12 years), a running training group (21.53 ± 0.18 years) and an orbotron training group (21.48 ± 0.29 years). Three-dimensional exercise tests were performed before and after training, and blood samples were taken to measure the concentration of plasma lactate, malondialdehyde (MDA), erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and leukocyte DNA damage. Results: Plasma lactate concentrations decreased in all three groups when measured after training and after 30 min of recovery compared to before training (p Conclusion: It can be concluded that the three types of exercise training reduced plasma lactate concentration, improved antioxidant enzyme activity, and further protected the body against oxidative stress (lipid peroxidation and DNA damage). Although we have identified an effect of exercise training on the levels of antioxidants and oxidants, our cohort was small, so further studies are needed to evaluate the different types of exercise training.
TL;DR: The degree of adiposity was different between Arabs and South Asians in Kuwait and abdominal obesity had a different impact on cardiovascular risk factors in these two ethnic groups in Kuwait.
Abstract: Objective: The aims of the study were to compare obesity and its association with risk factors of atherosclerosis in Arabs and South Asians in Kuwait and to define which of the anth
TL;DR: Estimating the frequency of postoperative lingual nerve (LN) impairment after the surgical removal of mandibular third molars and to identify potential risk indicators found Operative variables were the main predictors of temporary LN damage.
Abstract: Objective: The objective of this study was to estimate the frequency of postoperative lingual nerve (LN) impairment after the surgical removal of mandibular third molars (M3) and to
TL;DR: Cases show that without histopathological evaluation, these two lesions could have been misdiagnosed due to their similarity in appearance, and early detection and treatment of these lesions are important to reduce bone loss or displacement of dental germs or teeth.
Abstract: Objectives: The aim of this study was to present the clinical and histopathological evaluation of reactive gingival lesions, such as peripheral giant cell granuloma (PGCG) and perip