4 December 24, 2015
1. Galawish A. Abdullah, Mohammed Y. Abbas, Hyam Raouf, Batool M. Mahdi, Haider H. Zalzala, Laheeb A. Abid, Zena Nehad
The Association between Human Leukocyte Antigen-DRB1 and Vitiligo
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 190-194.
Number of views: 2157 Download in PDF
2. Isaac Acheampong SarfoEuropean Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 190-194.
Abstract:
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) as part of the immune system has a role in the disease process. Genetic factors play an important role in susceptibility to vitiligo. Our aim in this study is to assess the relationship between HLA-DRB1 alleles frequency in Iraqi patients with vitiligo compared with a healthy control group using the PCR-SSOP method. The patient group consisted of forty Iraqi Arab Muslims patients with vitiligo that consulted the dermatological department in Al-Kindy teaching hospital from September 2013 to June 2015 were assessed for HLA genotyping for HLA-DRB1. A control group consisted of thirty healthy volunteers among the staff of AL-Kindy College of medicine that did not have vitiligo or family history of vitiligo. HLA genotyping for HLA-DRB1 was performed for each patient and for the control persons using PCR with sequence-specific-oligonucleotide primers. Results showed an increase in the frequency of HLA genotype DRB1* 07:0101 (P value= 0.026) and DRB1* 11:0101 (p-value = 0.016) in patients with vitiligo compared with healthy controls. In conclusions, our results suggest an association between HLA-DRB1* 07:0101 and DRB1* 11:0101 and susceptibility to vitiligo.
Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) as part of the immune system has a role in the disease process. Genetic factors play an important role in susceptibility to vitiligo. Our aim in this study is to assess the relationship between HLA-DRB1 alleles frequency in Iraqi patients with vitiligo compared with a healthy control group using the PCR-SSOP method. The patient group consisted of forty Iraqi Arab Muslims patients with vitiligo that consulted the dermatological department in Al-Kindy teaching hospital from September 2013 to June 2015 were assessed for HLA genotyping for HLA-DRB1. A control group consisted of thirty healthy volunteers among the staff of AL-Kindy College of medicine that did not have vitiligo or family history of vitiligo. HLA genotyping for HLA-DRB1 was performed for each patient and for the control persons using PCR with sequence-specific-oligonucleotide primers. Results showed an increase in the frequency of HLA genotype DRB1* 07:0101 (P value= 0.026) and DRB1* 11:0101 (p-value = 0.016) in patients with vitiligo compared with healthy controls. In conclusions, our results suggest an association between HLA-DRB1* 07:0101 and DRB1* 11:0101 and susceptibility to vitiligo.
Number of views: 2157 Download in PDF
The Power of Beliefs on Health Seeking Behaviour: Implication for Therapeutic Relationships for Cardiovascular Care
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 195-207.
Number of views: 2469 Download in PDF
3. Goh Bee See, Nor Haslinda Mohari, Hamzaini Abdul HamidEuropean Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 195-207.
Abstract:
This study had as its aim, to examine health seeking behaviour among people suffering from cardiovascular disorders in the New Juaben Municipality in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Six hundred (600) participants, comprising male and female patients aged between 35-75 years and suffering from cardiovascular disorders for the past 12 months were selected used for the study. Cultural belief systems were found to significantly influence the health seeking behaviour of the people. Additionally, the perception of the aetiology of CVDs was socially constructed from a cultural point of view, which deviated from the orthodox views of disease causation. The finding of this study underscore the need for therapists and clinicians to adopt a culturally congruent approach to the provision of healthcare. This further calls for therapists to understand the cultural values and beliefs of the people in order to provide healthcare that would be acceptable to the people.
This study had as its aim, to examine health seeking behaviour among people suffering from cardiovascular disorders in the New Juaben Municipality in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Six hundred (600) participants, comprising male and female patients aged between 35-75 years and suffering from cardiovascular disorders for the past 12 months were selected used for the study. Cultural belief systems were found to significantly influence the health seeking behaviour of the people. Additionally, the perception of the aetiology of CVDs was socially constructed from a cultural point of view, which deviated from the orthodox views of disease causation. The finding of this study underscore the need for therapists and clinicians to adopt a culturally congruent approach to the provision of healthcare. This further calls for therapists to understand the cultural values and beliefs of the people in order to provide healthcare that would be acceptable to the people.
Number of views: 2469 Download in PDF
Congenital Incus Anomaly: Any Role of HRCT As Single Diagnostic Tool?
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 208-213.
Number of views: 2372 Download in PDF
4. S Imran A. Shah, Andi Jin, Hannah C. P. Wilson, Paul D. Abel, Patricia M. Price, Ulrich N. Hansen, Richard L. Abel,European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 208-213.
Abstract:
We describe a rare case of isolated congenital incus anomaly without other otologic anomalies in this case report. We detected this condition in an adult who presented with long standing, non progressive unilateral reduced hearing. Isolated congenital incus anomaly was identified incidentally during her visit for other otological problem. We discussed regarding the case and the important role of HRCT imaging as a single tool for diagnosing the anomaly without surgical exploration.
We describe a rare case of isolated congenital incus anomaly without other otologic anomalies in this case report. We detected this condition in an adult who presented with long standing, non progressive unilateral reduced hearing. Isolated congenital incus anomaly was identified incidentally during her visit for other otological problem. We discussed regarding the case and the important role of HRCT imaging as a single tool for diagnosing the anomaly without surgical exploration.
Number of views: 2372 Download in PDF
Novel Computed Tomography-based Metric Reliably Estimates bone Strength, Offering Potentially Meaningful Enhancement in Clinical Fracture Risk Prediction
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 214-220.
Number of views: 2148 Download in PDF
5. Elena Žiaková, Stanislava KlobuckáEuropean Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 214-220.
Abstract:
Osteoporosis with resultant fractures is a major global health problem with huge socio-economic implications for patients, families and healthcare services. Areal (2D bone mineral density (BMD) assessment is commonly used for predicting such fracture risk, but is unreliable, estimating only about 50% of bone strength. By contrast, computed tomography (CT) based techniques could provide improved metrics for estimating bone strength such as bone volume fraction (BVF; a 3D volumetric measure of mineralised bone), enabling cheap, safe and reliable strategies for clinical application, and to help divert resources to patients identified as most likely to benefit, meeting an unmet need. Here we describe a novel method for measuring BVF at clinical-CT like low-resolution (550µm voxel size). Femoral heads (n=8) were micro-CT scanned ex-vivo. Micro-CT data were downgraded in resolution from 30µm to 550µm voxel size and BVF calculated at high and low resolution. Experimental mechanical testing was applied to measure ex vivo bone strength of samples. BVF measures collected at high-resolution showed high correlation (correlation coefficient r2=0.95) with low-resolution data. Low-resolution BVF metrics showed high correlation (r2=0.96) with calculated sample strength. These results demonstrate that measuring BVF at low resolution is feasible, which also predicts bone strength. Measures of BVF should be useful for clinically estimating bone strength and fracture risk. The method needs to be validated using clinical CT scans.
Osteoporosis with resultant fractures is a major global health problem with huge socio-economic implications for patients, families and healthcare services. Areal (2D bone mineral density (BMD) assessment is commonly used for predicting such fracture risk, but is unreliable, estimating only about 50% of bone strength. By contrast, computed tomography (CT) based techniques could provide improved metrics for estimating bone strength such as bone volume fraction (BVF; a 3D volumetric measure of mineralised bone), enabling cheap, safe and reliable strategies for clinical application, and to help divert resources to patients identified as most likely to benefit, meeting an unmet need. Here we describe a novel method for measuring BVF at clinical-CT like low-resolution (550µm voxel size). Femoral heads (n=8) were micro-CT scanned ex-vivo. Micro-CT data were downgraded in resolution from 30µm to 550µm voxel size and BVF calculated at high and low resolution. Experimental mechanical testing was applied to measure ex vivo bone strength of samples. BVF measures collected at high-resolution showed high correlation (correlation coefficient r2=0.95) with low-resolution data. Low-resolution BVF metrics showed high correlation (r2=0.96) with calculated sample strength. These results demonstrate that measuring BVF at low resolution is feasible, which also predicts bone strength. Measures of BVF should be useful for clinically estimating bone strength and fracture risk. The method needs to be validated using clinical CT scans.
Number of views: 2148 Download in PDF
The Effect of EEG Biofeedback Therapy on Motor Abilities of Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 221-234.
Number of views: 2256 Download in PDF
6. Suha T. Abd, Abbas F. AliEuropean Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(10), Is. 4, pp. 221-234.
Abstract:
Background. Currently, EEG biofeedback (Neurofeedback) is used in the rehabilitation of children with brain damage with the symptoms of attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity and impulsivity. After treatment improvements were observed not only in the control of attention and impulsivity but also in voluntary and involuntary movements. The aim of the prospective clinical study was to measure the impact of EEG biofeedback on motor abilities of children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and compare the effectiveness of EEG biofeedback with classical rehabilitation. It was assumed that in children with ADHD in combination with central motor disorders EEG biofeedback therapy will strengthen not only the control of impulsivity and attention but also motor skills. Material. The observed group consisted of 60 (N = 60) children with mild central motor disorders with ADHD. They were randomly assigned to either the EEG biofeedback group (N = 30, mean age 8.9 years) or the classical rehabilitation group (N = 30, mean age 8.5 years). Methods. Both groups received thirty 30-45 minute sessions of training, at a frequency of 2-3 times a week. Pre-post assessment included testing of motor skills with PANESS test (Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs) for both groups and the EEG biofeedback group were assessed also for changes in impulse and attention control using CPT (Continuous Performance Test) test AX version and changes observed by parents using TLC Subjective Assessment (The Learning Curve, 2004). Results. Achieved overall score of EEG biofeedback group was lower after therapy (Mdn = 24.00) than before therapy (Mdn = 55.00), T = 0.00, p <0.01, Z = -4.78, r = -0.62. Values of significance (Asymp.Sig. 2-tailed = 0.000) and effect size (effect size r = -0.62) indicate a statistical and factual significant positive effect of EEG biofeedback to improve overall motor skills (lower score is better). Conclusion. EEG biofeedback therapy in children with ADHD improved control of attention, impulsivity and also improved motor skills. There were no significant differences in improvement of performance of timed movements between groups. Also, parents of children who received the EEG biofeedback therapy observed positive changes in behavior, learning and motor skills. Improvement in motor skills was significantly higher in the EEG Biofeedback group then in the classical rehabilitation group.
Background. Currently, EEG biofeedback (Neurofeedback) is used in the rehabilitation of children with brain damage with the symptoms of attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity and impulsivity. After treatment improvements were observed not only in the control of attention and impulsivity but also in voluntary and involuntary movements. The aim of the prospective clinical study was to measure the impact of EEG biofeedback on motor abilities of children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and compare the effectiveness of EEG biofeedback with classical rehabilitation. It was assumed that in children with ADHD in combination with central motor disorders EEG biofeedback therapy will strengthen not only the control of impulsivity and attention but also motor skills. Material. The observed group consisted of 60 (N = 60) children with mild central motor disorders with ADHD. They were randomly assigned to either the EEG biofeedback group (N = 30, mean age 8.9 years) or the classical rehabilitation group (N = 30, mean age 8.5 years). Methods. Both groups received thirty 30-45 minute sessions of training, at a frequency of 2-3 times a week. Pre-post assessment included testing of motor skills with PANESS test (Physical and Neurological Examination for Subtle Signs) for both groups and the EEG biofeedback group were assessed also for changes in impulse and attention control using CPT (Continuous Performance Test) test AX version and changes observed by parents using TLC Subjective Assessment (The Learning Curve, 2004). Results. Achieved overall score of EEG biofeedback group was lower after therapy (Mdn = 24.00) than before therapy (Mdn = 55.00), T = 0.00, p <0.01, Z = -4.78, r = -0.62. Values of significance (Asymp.Sig. 2-tailed = 0.000) and effect size (effect size r = -0.62) indicate a statistical and factual significant positive effect of EEG biofeedback to improve overall motor skills (lower score is better). Conclusion. EEG biofeedback therapy in children with ADHD improved control of attention, impulsivity and also improved motor skills. There were no significant differences in improvement of performance of timed movements between groups. Also, parents of children who received the EEG biofeedback therapy observed positive changes in behavior, learning and motor skills. Improvement in motor skills was significantly higher in the EEG Biofeedback group then in the classical rehabilitation group.
Number of views: 2256 Download in PDF
Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Candida albicans of Human Saliva (in vitro study)
European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(9), Is. 3, pp. 235-244.
Number of views: 2028 Download in PDF
7. European Journal of Medicine, 2015, Vol.(9), Is. 3, pp. 235-244.
Abstract:
The potential use of zinc oxide and other metal oxide nanoparticles in biomedicine are gaining interest in the scientific and medical communities, largely due to the physical and chemical properties of these nanoparticles, therefore there is an urgent need to develop new classes of antimicrobial agents, and recent studies demonstrate that hold a considerable promises. Candida albicans were isolated from saliva of forty eight volunteers of both sexes their age range between 18-22 years and then purified and diagnosed according to morphological characteristic and biochemical tests. Different concentrations of ZnO NPs were prepared from the stock solution; all the experiments were conducted in vitro. Disk diffusion method was used to study the sensitivity of Candida albicans to different concentrations of zinc oxide nanoparticles in comparison to effect of de-ionized water. Candida albicans were sensitive to all cocentrations (0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 3 and 5.8 mg/ml) of the zinc oxide nanoparticles solution in comparison to de-ionized water, revealing a highly significant difference in all concentrations. This study revealed that zinc oxide nanoparticles were effective against Candida albicans.
The potential use of zinc oxide and other metal oxide nanoparticles in biomedicine are gaining interest in the scientific and medical communities, largely due to the physical and chemical properties of these nanoparticles, therefore there is an urgent need to develop new classes of antimicrobial agents, and recent studies demonstrate that hold a considerable promises. Candida albicans were isolated from saliva of forty eight volunteers of both sexes their age range between 18-22 years and then purified and diagnosed according to morphological characteristic and biochemical tests. Different concentrations of ZnO NPs were prepared from the stock solution; all the experiments were conducted in vitro. Disk diffusion method was used to study the sensitivity of Candida albicans to different concentrations of zinc oxide nanoparticles in comparison to effect of de-ionized water. Candida albicans were sensitive to all cocentrations (0.01, 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 3 and 5.8 mg/ml) of the zinc oxide nanoparticles solution in comparison to de-ionized water, revealing a highly significant difference in all concentrations. This study revealed that zinc oxide nanoparticles were effective against Candida albicans.
Number of views: 2028 Download in PDF