Acta Informatica Medica[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Monitoring Seasonal Compliance of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using CPAP Systems via SD Card.
Karagiannis A, Tzitiridou M, Kafkia T … +1 more , Kourakos M
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711489 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder characterized by recurrent upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to neurological and cardiovascular adverse effects. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed...
BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder characterized by recurrent upper airway collapse during sleep, leading to neurological and cardiovascular adverse effects. OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to explore seasonal compliance with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy among OSA patients in Greece. METHODS: Data from 954 OSA patients using CPAP devices were collected during summer and winter months. Factors evaluated included the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), mask type, mask leaks, and hours of CPAP device usage. RESULTS: The majority of patients were male (78.2%) and aged 60 years or above (58.5%). Most patients had been using CPAP for over 2 years (82.8%), with auto CPAP devices and nasal or pillow masks being most common. Compliance was observed in 57.7% of patients, while 22.1% were non-compliant. A significant number of patients (8.2% and 12%) were compliant only in summer or winter, respectively. Compliance was influenced by duration of CPAP use, BMI up to 25, and the use of nasal/pillow masks. Higher compliance was associated with lower summer severity and both low and severe winter severity. Logistic regression analysis confirmed these findings. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that utilizing CPAP device data can provide actionable insights on seasonal compliance among OSA patients. Summer compliance is lower, and the use of nasal/pillow masks and auto CPAP devices is recommended for improved compliance.
Is There a Role for Ordering a DEXA (Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) Scan for Patients with Symptomatic Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis?
Alkhatatba M, Abualadas J, Tabar MAA … +8 more , Abueed M, Alghzawi AA, Abualadas R, Radaideh A, Essa SB, Obeidat N, Alma Aiteh AA, Al-Omari J
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711488 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis of the knee (OA) and osteoporosis are two conditions that have a significant impact on society, have a great impact on quality of life, and can lead to functional impairment. However, the relat...
BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis of the knee (OA) and osteoporosis are two conditions that have a significant impact on society, have a great impact on quality of life, and can lead to functional impairment. However, the relationship between knee OA and osteoporosis is unclear. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine if there is a link between symptomatic advanced knee osteoarthritis and low bone mineral density. METHODS: A total of 430 patients with symptomatic and advanced radiographic knee OA served as participants in this study. Plain radiographs were used to screen participants for osteoarthritis, and a Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) scan was used to determine each participant's bone mineral density (BMD). RESULTS: The lumbar spine, whole femur, and femoral neck BMD levels were statistically higher in the early OA (Kelldren-Lawrence (KL) I and II) group compared with the advanced (III and IV) OA group. Higher BMD at the whole femur and femoral neck but not at the lumbar spine was observed when comparing patients with grades I, II, and III with patients with grade IV after adjustment for body mass index. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study indicate that the degree of knee OA is correlated with a decline in BMD. These findings lend credence to the theory that the two conditions may be linked to one another. Our study concluded that patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis are at risk of developing osteoporosis. As a result, orthopedic doctors are required to screen for osteoporosis in patients with advanced knee osteoarthritis to both prevent and treat osteoporosis at an earlier stage.
The Birth of Medical Dramaturgy - On the Occasion of the Published Book of Academician Benjamin Djulbegovic: "An Impossible Decision - the Life Interrupted by Uncertainty".
Masic I
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711487 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The book "An Impossible Decision - the Life Interrupted by Uncertainty"has been published by Avicena Publisher in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2023 - ISBN: 978-9958-720-76-5. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this...
BACKGROUND: The book "An Impossible Decision - the Life Interrupted by Uncertainty"has been published by Avicena Publisher in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2023 - ISBN: 978-9958-720-76-5. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to analize what is the most rational and ethical way to treat people facing life-and-death decisions and how do we exactly communicate these inevitable uncertainties that all of us will sooner or later face? METHODS: Author of the book shows real-life relevance to patients often left alone to make these difficult decisions. Using the techniques of medical dramaturgy, this text brilliantly bridges science. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The author of the book explained and proposed how to educate the public on how medical advances are made and how inferences and evidence are generated and appraised - in the best tradition of evidence-based medicine while highlighting uncertainties and inevitable trade-offs that accompany science, policies, and personal choices in the attempt to arrive at most satisfactory decisions. In addition to the general public, this play's important audiences are students and faculty in humanities disciplines and medical schools. These students are required to read many dense scientific, philosophical, and technical writings (many of which are referenced/annotated in the footnotes in the play). The play provides an exceptional teaching tool, which includes over 35 theoretical concepts to show how they can be applied to decisions relevant to all of us and what shared decision- making entails. CONCLUSION: Author's answer on the question "How to make the life and death medical decisions?" coul'd and shoul'd be: The method of using a playwright and Socrates dialogue format to connect the science of uncertainty with personal humanity decision will be appropriate. It will be important and quiet usefull for phisicians and, also, patients in healthcare practice, as joined decision makers.
A Theoretical Framework on the Biology of Prion Diseases.
Ramosaço E, Bajrami N, Vyshka G
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711486 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Prion diseases or TSE diseases are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that manifest in several forms in humans, such as Kuru disease, Creutzfeldt‒Jakob disease (CJD), Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndro...
BACKGROUND: Prion diseases or TSE diseases are a group of neurodegenerative disorders that manifest in several forms in humans, such as Kuru disease, Creutzfeldt‒Jakob disease (CJD), Gerstmann-Sträussler-Scheinker syndrome (GSS) and fatal familial insomnia. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we propose a multimodular hypothesis of prion diseases. According to this hypothesis, a prion disease manifests because of the interaction of two genetic modules, such as the PRNP gene module and that of the gene or genes responsible for one or more chaperones, with one or some chemical module on whose structure the products of the genes or genetic modules interact. METHODS: This study presents the perspective that modular thinking can allow us to overcome conceptual obstacles in the understanding and interpretation of prion diseases. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The structure of the chemical module or modules is directly responsible for the folding or misfolding of the PrP protein. The etiology of acquired prion diseases is explained based on this hypothesis. Hence, it has been proposed that (g) CJD involves the PRNP gene mutant and one or more mutant genes for one or more chaperone genes. In contrast, sCJD has one or more mutant chaperone genes. When does iCJD occur? Healthy individuals manifest acquired prion disease through contamination when infected with one or more mutant chaperones. The mutant chaperones interact with the prion protein, and PrP is converted to its isoform PrP. In a recent study, there was a case of an individual with CJD after COVID-19 infection. CONCLUSION: This case emphasizes the link between neuroinflammation and protein misfolding and provides proof that chemical module formation is a necessary condition for the manifestation of prion diseases.
Off pump Versus On pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: Short-term Outcomes.
Karabdic IH, Straus S, Granov N … +5 more , Hadzimehmedagic A, Berberovic B, Kabil E, Djedovic M, Kurtagic D
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711485 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major public health issue and a leading cause of death globally. It is one of the most common indications for surgical intervention. There are a lot of different techniques,...
BACKGROUND: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major public health issue and a leading cause of death globally. It is one of the most common indications for surgical intervention. There are a lot of different techniques, including CABG, which consists of two approaches: sternotomy and mini-thoracotomy. Different techniques have been developed to improve surgical outcomes, including the use of machine for extracorporal circulation (on-pump) or without it (off-pump). OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess whether off-pump CABG offers superior short-term outcomes compared to traditional on-pump CABG in patients undergoing isolated CABG.. METHODS: In period between 2022 - 2023, we performed CABG operation in 80 patients. CABG was performed either on- pump or off-pump. RESULTS: The results have shown advantages and disadvantages of one or another type of CABG. We were comparing the duration of surgical procedure, time on mechanical ventilation, drainage volume, neurological incidents, time to discharge, indication for repeat revascularization and mortality between two groups. CONCLUSION: The choice of surgical technique should be based on individual patient factors, including comorbidities and surgical risks. It is important to say that OPCABG is more challenging than ONCABG, and it is very important that OPCABG is done by skilled, experienced and confident surgeon, which contributes to better outcome and survival.
Comparison of Osseointegration in Novel Laser-Textured and SLA Implants.
Zarazir R, Mrad S, Aoun G … +3 more , Sleiman AA, Mousallem M, Bassil J
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Jun · PMID 37711484 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Osseointegration is defined as the direct structural and functional connection between neo-formed bone and dental implants. Among the parameters suggested to predominantly influencing the establishment of a s...
BACKGROUND: Osseointegration is defined as the direct structural and functional connection between neo-formed bone and dental implants. Among the parameters suggested to predominantly influencing the establishment of a successful osseointegration is the quality of the implant surface, which may enhance the strength and speed of this biomechanical process. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of a novel laser-treated surface, compared to sandblasted, large-grit, acid-etched (SLA) surfaces, to enhance and accelerate implant integration in delayed implant placement. Thirty patients with two missing posterior teeth were enrolled in this study. Each patient received, at a randomly allocated site, an implant with a conventional SLA surface, and at a second site, an implant with laser-textured surface. A total of 60 tissue-level implants were subsequently placed. Implant stability (ISQ) was measured using resonance frequency analysis (RFA). ISQ was assessed at baseline (T0), 8 weeks (T1), and 12 weeks (T2) following implant placement. There was a statistical difference in implant stability between laser-textured and SLA group at 12 weeks postoperatively. Implant stabilization showed a successful osseointegration with both surface types. CONCLUSION: Both laser and SLA surface treatments had positive impacts on implant stabilization following delayed placement. Laser-treated surfaces presented higher values of osseointegration at 3 months postoperatively.
Randomized Open-Label Trial Comparing Teledermatology vs. Face-to-Face Consultation in the Follow-Up of Patients with Mild-to-Moderate Acne.
Heidemeyer K, Bodle L, Böll S … +4 more , Bossart S, Seyed Jafari SM, Hunger RE, Cazzaniga S
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038496 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological diseases, especially in adolescents and young adults. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to compare teledermatology versus face-to-face consultation in t...
BACKGROUND: Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological diseases, especially in adolescents and young adults. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to compare teledermatology versus face-to-face consultation in the follow-up of patients with mild-to-moderate acne. METHODS: In this investigator-initiated, parallel arms, open-label, randomized clinical trial, after screening, participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to be followed up through teledermatology or standard face-to-face consultations for a period of 6 months. The primary endpoint was the cumulative time spent by physician for consultations or online assessments. RESULTS: Out of 24 patients (21 females and 3 males; mean age 23.0 ± 3.3 years) underwent randomization in the two study groups. In intention-to-treat analysis, the cumulative time spent by physician was higher in the teledermatology group compared to face-to-face consultations with an average difference of 8:24 mm:ss (95% CI: 1:17-15:31). However, the cumulative time spent by the patient was significantly lower in the teledermatology group (mean difference 1:21:39 hh:mm:ss; 95% CI: 41:51-2:01:27). An optimal reduction of acne-severity was observed in both groups, without significant differences between them. The patient's satisfaction did not change significantly over time and between groups, and was generally quite high. AEs were reported by one patient in the teledermatology group and four patients in the consultation group. CONCLUSION: Acne might be an optimal disease to be followed up using a teledermatology platform, to relieve the burden on patients and medical staff. However, it is necessary to implement more user-friendly platforms in order to achieve the best possible results in the treatment and follow-up of acne patients.
Correlation of Lund-Mackay Score on Computed Tomography Scan and Nasoendoscopic Score in Chronic Rhinosinusitis.
Sudiro M, Kuntara A, Waldi D
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038495 · Full text
BCKGROUND: The diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is confirmed by subjectively assessing a patient's complaints and objectively by a computed tomography scan (CT scan) and nasoendoscopic examination. The Lund Mack...
BCKGROUND: The diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is confirmed by subjectively assessing a patient's complaints and objectively by a computed tomography scan (CT scan) and nasoendoscopic examination. The Lund Mackay (LM) score on paranasal sinus CT scans and the Modified Lund Kennedy (MLK) nasoendoscopic score have more advantages than other scores. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between the LM score on paranasal sinus CT scans and the nasoendoscopic MLK score in patients with CRS at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital Bandung. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional analytical observational study conducted on 70 adult CRS patients with nasoendoscopy and paranasal sinus CT scans at Dr. Hasan Sadikin General Hospital Bandung. The Lund Mackay score and nasoendoscopic MLK score were collected, and the data were analyzed using Spearman's correlation. RESULTS: In this study, 51.4% were males and 48.6% were females, and most subjects were without polyps (72.9%). This study found a strong positive correlation in subjects with polyps (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient 0.7) in LM score with nasoendoscopic MLK score and a very small correlation in subjects without polyps. CONCLUSION: There is a significant correlation between Lund Mackay score on paranasal sinus CT scan and nasoendoscopic Modified Lund Kennedy score in CRS patients with polyps in Dr. Hasan Sadikin Bandung General Hospital.
Proposal of a Context-sensitive ECG Collection Mobile Health System for Ambulatory Cardiovascular Diseases.
Moreno-De La Cruz C, Vargas-Lombardo M
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038494 · Full text
BACKGROUND: This study brings innovation oriented to the development of e-health services to improve the performance of healthcare and hospital care in free-living activities. OBJECTIVE: This article seeks to propose an...
BACKGROUND: This study brings innovation oriented to the development of e-health services to improve the performance of healthcare and hospital care in free-living activities. OBJECTIVE: This article seeks to propose an innovative mobile software that enables the contextualization of clinical data, while integrating the fundamental functionalities and usability criteria of a mobile health (mhealth) system. METHODS: We examine the utility of a context-sensitive mobile electrocardiogram (ECG) collection system for the detection of cardiovascular diseases for patients in free-living conditions. RESULTS: We propose an mhealth system that reinforces conventional healthcare systems in which electronic health records are limited by access and processing of data, limiting clinical-medical decision-making. This study highlights the importance of mobile applications for self-care and their usefulness for both patients and healthcare providers. The proposal offers an avenue for the study of contextualized ECG collection methods that can be used to create context-specific actions that reduce false alarms in computer-aided diagnosis of ambulatory ECG. CONCLUSION: Mobile applications for health care and monitoring improve the quality of life of people with cardiovascular diseases.
Acta Informatica Medica is Reputed Research Journal.
Masic I
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038493 · Full text
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells Suppress Dendritic Cells and Modulate Proinflammatory Milieu Through Interleukin-10 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Human Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
Darlan DM, Raga A, Muhar AM … +2 more , Putra A, Alif I
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038492 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Immune-mediated inflammatory injury among systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) individuals may be involved by dendritic cells (DCs) abnormality though the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. O...
BACKGROUND: Immune-mediated inflammatory injury among systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) individuals may be involved by dendritic cells (DCs) abnormality though the underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to elaborate MSCs' potential in suppressing abnormal DCs cell function on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) among SLE patients. METHODS: MSCs were isolated from human umbilical cord blood. On the other side, human PBMCs were isolated from 20 active SLE patients and 5 healthy controls. The PBMCs of SLE patients were divided into 5 groups: sham (Sh) and control (C) groups were treated with standard medium, and the treatment groups (T1, T2 and T3) was co-cultured with hUC-MSC at doses of 1:1, 1:25, and 1:50 (MSCs:PBMCs). The expression of CD11c in DCs was analyzed using flow cytometry, while the level of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6 and IL-10 was analyzed using cytometric bead array (CBA). RESULTS: The MSCs significantly downregulates CD11c of dendritic cells in all treatment groups. MSCs also significantly suppress the level of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6 and the significantly enhance IL-10 level in all treatment groups. CONCLUSION: Therefore, MSCs could suppress DCs through regulating the proinflammatory milieu in PBMCs of SLE patients.
On Occasion of Seventy-five Years of Cardiac Defibrillation in Humans.
Naser N
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038491 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Heart attack, or cardiac arrest, became a leading cause of death after the turn of the century. Defibrillation is one of the most important medical advances of the twentieth century. Defibrillation is a criti...
BACKGROUND: Heart attack, or cardiac arrest, became a leading cause of death after the turn of the century. Defibrillation is one of the most important medical advances of the twentieth century. Defibrillation is a critical step in the treatment of cardiac arrest as it can be the only way to restore a normal heart rhythm and save the life of the individual. However, it is important to note that defibrillation is only effective if it is performed quickly and in conjunction with other life-saving measures such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The history of cardiac defibrillation therapy is long and fascinating, spanning several centuries, many countries and continents. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article was to provide historical information about technical and scientific advances in cardiac devices and the development of today defibrillators. METHODS: Review of the available literature, historical data, personal contacts, others and personal experience in this field. DISCUSSION: In 1947, Beck published the first paper describing open chest defibrillation of the human heart. Ten years later, Kouwenhoven demonstrated that the heart could be defibrillated through a closed chest. The first external defibrillator weighed 120 kg and delivered 500 v of alternating current (AC) potential. The mere size of the defibrillator restricted its use to surgical suites or other areas hospital locations. In many cases, cardiac arrhythmias recurred. This was thought to be related to the amount of energy used to defibrillate the heart which it was believed caused myocardial damage. These factors limited the practical application of defibrillators. By 1956, a unit was built that could be wheeled into the emergency room, plugged into a wall outlet, and deliver 1000 volts. By 1962, Lown realized that AC current resulted in a high frequency of cardiac arrhythmias and cardiac damage. A direct current (DC) defibrillator, consisting of a battery, a capacitor to store energy, and a transformer was developed. The therapy spread from operating rooms to coronary care units and emergency departments and in the late 1960s left the hospital and started appearing on mobile intensive care units. The first portable EMS defibrillators (used by paramedics) emerged in the early 1970s. In 1980 the automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator was invented. Automated external defibrillators began appearing in the late 1980s allowing the therapy to be delivered by EMTs and lay people. The 'father' of the modern automated external defibrillator (AED), Professor James Francis (1916-2004) was a physician and cardiologist from Northern Ireland who transformed emergency medicine and paramedic services with the invention of the portable defibrillator. CONCLUSION: Defibrillators are critical resuscitation devices. The use of reliable defibrillators has led to more effective treatments and improved patient safety through better control and management of complications during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The 75th anniversary of the world's first successful human cardiac defibrillation represents the landmark event that defined the future of cardiovascular medicine and ushered in a new era of advanced cardiac life support.
The Role of Hemogram-derived Ratios in COVID-19 Severity Stratification in a Primary Healthcare Facility.
Segalo S, Kiseljakovic E, Papic E … +5 more , Joguncic A, Pasic A, Sahinagic M, Lepara O, Sporisevic L
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038490 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from asymptomatic to severe disease with a high mortality rate. In view of the current pandemic and the increasing influx of pat...
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can cause a wide clinical spectrum, ranging from asymptomatic to severe disease with a high mortality rate. In view of the current pandemic and the increasing influx of patients into healthcare facilities, there is a need to identify simple and reliable tools for stratifying patients. OBJECTIVE: Study aimed to analyze whether hemogram-derived ratios (HDRs) can be used to identify patients with a risk of developing a severe clinical form and admission to hospital. METHODS: This cross-sectional and observational study included 500 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Data on clinical features and laboratory parameters were collected from medical records and 13 HDRs were calculated and analyzed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were included in the analysis. RESULTS: Of the 500 patients, 43.8% had a severe form of the disease. Lymphocytopenia, monocytopenia, higher C-reactive protein (CRP), and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were found in severe patients ( < 0.05). Significantly higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), derived NLR (dNLR), neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte-to-platelet ratio (NLPR) and CRP-to-lymphocyte ratio (CRP/Ly) values were found in severe patients ( < 0.001). In addition, they have statistically significant prognostic potential ( < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) for CRP/Ly, dNLR, NLPR, NLR, and NPR were 0.693, 0.619, 0.619, 0.616, and 0.603, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity were 65.7% and 65.6% for CRP/Ly, 51.6% and 70.8 for dNLR, 61.6% and 57.3% for NLPR, 40.6% and 80.4% for NLR, and 48.8% and 69.1% for NPR. CONCLUSION: The results of the study suggest that NLR, dNLR, CRP/Ly, NPR, and NLPR can be considered as potentially useful markers for stratifying patients with a severe form of the disease. HDRs derived from routine blood tests results should be included in common laboratory practice since they are readily available, easy to calculate, and inexpensive.
Phylogenetic Changes in SARS-CoV-2 Virus in Bosnian-Herzegovinian Population Over the Period of Two Years.
Mulahuseinovic N, Salihefendic L, Pecar D … +5 more , Ceko I, Durgut S, Kandic E, Hadziavdic V, Konjhodzic R
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038489 · Full text
BACKGROUND: All viral genomes, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus, mutate over time, and some of these mutations can affect the characteristics of the virus, such as the ease of spread, the severity of the patient's clinical...
BACKGROUND: All viral genomes, including the SARS-CoV-2 virus, mutate over time, and some of these mutations can affect the characteristics of the virus, such as the ease of spread, the severity of the patient's clinical picture, or the effect of vaccines, therapeutic drugs, diagnostic tools or other measures of public health and social protection. Because of all the above, it is imperative to carry out continuous sequencing of this pathogen. OBJECTIVE: The main goal of this research was to obtain the highest quality genomic sequences of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, to compare the obtained sequences with the reference Wuhan-Hu-1 sequence and to obtain a high-quality genomic alignment in order to reconstruct the appropriate phylogenetic tree. METHODS: For the purposes of this research, a next-generation semiconductor sequencing method was chosen. In this research, a total of 47 samples of nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs from patients from the human population of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a clinical diagnosis of COVID-19 were collected. RESULTS: In the processed 47 samples, there are several monophyletic groups on the constructed phylogenetic tree, of which one sample belongs to the same monophyletic group as the Wuhan-Hu-1 reference sequence. CONCLUSION: The greater number of samples is needed for a more comprehensive approach. Therefore, the results of this research can act as a guideline for the design of effective measures and strategies in order to solve problems regarding future pandemics as efficiently as possible.
Bibliometric Analysis of 6 Major European Neurosurgical Publications from 2011-2020 (part 3): a Comparative Metrics Review.
Garg K, Chaurasia B, Gienapp AJ … +2 more , Splavski B, Arnautovic KI
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038488 · Full text
BACKGROUND: We previously conducted bibliometric analysis of 6 North American neurosurgical journals. OBJECTIVE: To perform a bibliometric analysis of 6 European neurosurgical journals to build on our previous studies. M...
BACKGROUND: We previously conducted bibliometric analysis of 6 North American neurosurgical journals. OBJECTIVE: To perform a bibliometric analysis of 6 European neurosurgical journals to build on our previous studies. METHODS: We searched Web of Science for articles published in , , , , , and between 2011 and 2020. We analyzed bibliometric parameters related to total annual document distribution, author metrics, journal metrics, country and continental distribution, institution, keywords, and journal impact. RESULTS: European countries provided the greatest contributions. followed by published the greatest number of articles and had the highest h-index and number of citations. From 2018 to 2020, total documents increased 79.6%, original articles increased 86.5%, review articles increased 103.6%, citations increased 79.6%, number of publishing authors increased 72.1%, number of authors in multi-author documents increased 72.4%, and author's keywords and keywords plus increased 72.4% and 27.0%, respectively. The collaboration index decreased 5.3% from 4.49 to 4.25. Annual published documents and citations were lower for European journals versus North American journals. CONCLUSION: Several parameters of the European journals increased by 2020. One interesting finding is that growth for the 6 journals dramatically increased in the 2 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. While neurosurgeon free time during lockdowns may account for much of the increase in 2020, the trend began before this. Our analysis did not identify a cause for the pre-COVID increases.
Stereoacuity and Multifocal Intraocular Lenses - a Systematic Review.
Bohac M, Jagic M, Biscevic A … +4 more , Lukacevic S, Mravicic I, Suic SP, Dekaris I
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038487 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Among various visual functions, stereoacuity, or the ability to perceive depth, is the most sophisticated binocular function. Many publications discuss the influence of retinal image formation by multifocal i...
BACKGROUND: Among various visual functions, stereoacuity, or the ability to perceive depth, is the most sophisticated binocular function. Many publications discuss the influence of retinal image formation by multifocal intraocular lenses on glare and contrast sensitivity, but only a few present results of testing binocular vision in patients with multifocal intraocular lenses. OBJECTIVE: This article is designed to review the results of testing binocular vision in patients with multifocal intraocular lenses implanted in cataract surgery. METHODS: This article was performed based on a literature review and Internet search through scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. RESULTS: Some reports found that patients implanted with the monofocal lens, when measured with a near addition, presented statistically significant better stereoacuity scores than those implanted with any of the multifocal intraocular lens types. When the TNO test was used for measurement, statistically significant better stereoacuity was disclosed with the refractive multifocal intraocular lens than with the diffractive-based multifocal intraocular lens design. Stereoacuity scores, even within the same types of lenses, were significantly better with the Titmus test than with the TNO test. CONCLUSION: Stereoacuity is not affected by multifocality-induced retinal blur as it is by other causes of image degradation such as small residual refractive error very early opacification of ocular media or dry eye. Multifocal intraocular lenses do not cause more functional aniseikonia than would be expected with a monofocal intraocular lens. Since stereoacuity is compromised with unilateral multifocal intraocular lens implantation bilateral implantation should be attempted.
Incidence and Comparison of Suicide in Various Phases of the Menstrual Cycle: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Alnashwan YA, Rashid AM, Javaid SS … +5 more , Kharoshah MA, Arun M, Dsouza HL, Atreya A, Menezes RG
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038486 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Suicide is a global health concern. There are reproductive health-related factors that are responsible for increasing the risk of female suicide. There are a number of studies examining the association betwee...
BACKGROUND: Suicide is a global health concern. There are reproductive health-related factors that are responsible for increasing the risk of female suicide. There are a number of studies examining the association between suicide and the menstrual cycle, but still, there are no conclusive findings. AIM: We aimed to pool data from all the studies reporting data on suicides and the menstrual cycle phase to report the following outcomes: incidence of suicidal deaths in the menstrual, secretory, and proliferative phases, and to find out whether the burden of suicide in the menstrual phase in particular, was more at a young age (18-35 years) or middle age (36-50years). METHODS: The PubMed database was extensively searched from inception till 12 April 2022. The data for the number of events occurring for each outcome were pooled using random-effects model and forest plots were created. RESULTS: Five articles were shortlisted for inclusion in our analysis. Incidence of suicide in the secretory phase was highest at 45.2% [95% CI, 0.367-0.537]. The incidence of suicide, when occurring in the menstrual phase, was reported to be 68.4% (95 CI, 0.317-1.052) and 31.6% (95 CI, -0.052.3-0.68) for young-aged and middle-aged victims, respectively. CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that the menstrual phase has a lower risk of mortality due to suicide when compared to the other two phases of the menstrual cycle. Nevertheless, when suicide occurred in the menstrual phase, the incidence of suicide among the younger age-group was higher than for those in the middle age-group.
InfoSec Practices - a Survey Conducted in Greek Hospitals.
Magdalinou A, Kalokairinou A, Malamateniou F … +1 more , Mantas J
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038485 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Langerhans The information technology is present in every aspect of private, social, and professional sphere and is constantly evolving whilst remaining vulnerable to security alerts and attacks. The healthca...
BACKGROUND: Langerhans The information technology is present in every aspect of private, social, and professional sphere and is constantly evolving whilst remaining vulnerable to security alerts and attacks. The healthcare sector contains sensitive information and can be compromised causing even fatal delays to healthcare delivery, loss of reputation of the organizations, and traumatic experiences for patients who might be stigmatized by the disclosure of their medical files. Infosec practices that are applied by nurses can make the difference in defending or compromising healthcare data. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this research is to investigate the Infosec practices which are applied by nurses who work in Greek hospitals. Correlation between the Infosec practices, the knowledge on Infosec policies, and attitude towards Infosec policies will be further examined. METHODS: The KAP model is applied and the HAIS-Q tool consisted of 45 items in five areas of interest was used. A sample of 277 nurses was collected. Confidentiality issues and consent were respected. IBM SPSS 25.0 was used for the statistical analysis. Descriptive analysis (mean, st. dev.) and inferential statistics, ANOVA, and Pearson Corerelations were conducted. The significance level was set up to 0.05. RESULTS: A strong correlation between knowledge on Infosec policies and attitude towards Infosec policies, attitude towards Infosec policies and Infosec practices, and knowledge on Infosec policies and Infosec practices was established. Nurses apply good Infosec practices in three out of five areas of interest, while their practices concerning the report of security violations and their practices related to the Internet usage are average. Overall, nurses' Infosec awareness is good. CONCLUSION: The findings showed that nurses demonstrate average to good knowledge on Infosec policies, good attitude towards Infosec policies, good to average Infosec practices and good total Infosec awareness.The most vulnerable area is the Internet usage.
Neurosarcoidosis - the Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnostics.
Imsirovic B, Guso E, Omerhodzic I … +2 more , Tawil AA, Merhemic Z
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038484 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, characterized by presence of granulomas in affected tissues with variety in clinical presentations and presents a differential diagnosti...
BACKGROUND: Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology, characterized by presence of granulomas in affected tissues with variety in clinical presentations and presents a differential diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma. Clinical presentation of neurosarcoidosis is very variable. Diagnosis is based on clinical and radiological criteria and histological findings of disseminated non-necrotic granuloma followed by negative cultures for bacteria and fungi. MRI plays a key role in detection of lesions located in the brain parenchyma. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article was to present case of a 36-year-old male patient, who came to doctor with symptoms of fever, dry cough with whitish sputum, lymphadenopathy of neck region and neurological disturbances in form of headaches and vision problems. CASE PRESENTATION: Patient underwent on pulmonary examination and results indicated presence of sarcoidosis. CT examination was performed (SIEMENS Somatom Definition AS, Erlangen, Germany), which confirmed presence of mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy. Ultrasound (US) examination of a neck region was also performed showed significantly enlarged and morphology altered lymph nodes. After biopsy of several neck lymph nodes, histopathological was proven diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Due to neurological disturbances in form of headaches and vision problems patient was examined by an ophthalmologist, neurologist and endocrinologist. Hormonal analysis showed an increase of prolactin and that raised suspicion for neurosarcoidosis. In further diagnostic evaluation it was indicated MRI examination of the brain with focus on sellar region. CONCLUSION: Contrast-enhanced MRI is the modality of choice for investigating suspected neurosarcoidosis. The versatility of MR recording and the amount of diagnostic informations obtained from MRI examination is huge. Comparison of MRI sequences obtained, facilitate interpretation of these findings. Obtained MRI information and available literature, correlating with other diagnostic modalities (ultrasound and CT) facilitate understanding of the specific pathology.
Genetic Variants of the Gsr Gene (rs2978663) and the Progression of Osteoporosis.
Abdulabbas HS, Al-Mawlah YH, Yonis SD … +1 more , Shaheed SH
Acta Inform Med · 2023 Mar · PMID 37038483 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis, demonstrated as an associated disease with more than 30 gene disorders, is a polygenic disorder, and it's also implicated in bone mineral density (BMD) regulations. Lipid peroxidation and hydrog...
BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis, demonstrated as an associated disease with more than 30 gene disorders, is a polygenic disorder, and it's also implicated in bone mineral density (BMD) regulations. Lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide levels significantly increased and vice versa the antioxidant enzymes decreased such as Glutathione S-Reductase GSR was found in female postmenopausal females. OBJECTIVE: This research was done in order to find out the effect of rs2978663 genotypes on the progression of osteoporosis. METHODS: First, blood samples were used to extract DNA for analysis. Molecular examination was achieved using PCR, RFLP, and UV imaging after electrophoresis in an agarose gel, and these results were analyzed by SPSS (version 23). RESULTS: The genotypes differed in healthy people, and the proportions varied, as they were: the highest percentage was represented by the GA genotype (78%), followed by the AA genotype (16%), and the GG genotype (6%). For case samples, the highest percentage was represented by the GA genotype (51%), followed by the AA genotype (30%), and the GG genotype (19%). There are significant associations between GA genotype and restriction of fragility disease. The risk of having osteoporosis was significantly lower in those with the GA genotype (OR = 0.1946; 95% CI = 0.04-0.95; P = 0.03). The A allele frequency of the GSR gene (rs2978663) did not change significantly between study groups (OR: 0.9965, 95% CI: 0.5547-1.7816, P value: 0.9905). CONCLUSION: Overall, it is safe to say that GSR-int3 (rs-2678663) was shown to have no association with osteoporosis in this research of Iraqi women. Inherent variation in the GSR gene (rs-2678663) is associated with decreased osteoporosis risk.
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