International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences
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Elevated neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase mRNA expressions in patients with metabolic syndrome: a cross-sectional study
Get PDFBackground: Neutrophil-derived enzymes such as neutrophil elastase (NE) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) contribute to inflammation and vascular dysfunction. However, their expression in relation to metabolic syndrome (MetS) remains underexplored.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, NE and MPO mRNA expression were evaluated in peripheral blood leukocytes of 44 adults. Among them 19 had MetS and 25 served as controls. Baseline metabolic parameters were compared between groups, and expression levels were analyzed using RT-qPCR.
Results: Individuals with MetS had significantly higher systolic blood pressure, waist circumference, triglycerides, and lipid ratios (TC: HDL-C, LDL-C: HDL-C), and lower HDL-C compared to controls. NE and MPO mRNA expression were significantly elevated in MetS (p=0.015 and p=0.029, respectively). Furthermore, both NE and MPO expression showed significant moderate positive correlations with MetS status.
Conclusion: Elevated NE and MPO gene expressions in peripheral blood leukocytes are associated with MetS, supporting their potential role as biomarkers of obesity-related dyslipidemia and inflammation. These findings highlight neutrophil activation as a possible molecular contributor to the pathogenesis of MetS
Publish or perish: exploring nurse academicians’ perspectives on academic publishing
Get PDFAcademic publishing is a vital component of nursing scholarship, essential for faculty promotion, knowledge dissemination, and international recognition. Despite its importance, nurse academicians face multiple challenges such as limited mentorship, heavy workloads, language barriers, and financial constraints that impede scholarly engagement. This study aimed to clarify the concept of nurse academicians’ perspectives on academic publishing using Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis framework. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science for studies published between 2015 and 2024. Both MeSH terms and free-text keywords were used, and fifteen empirical studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and appraised using a 15-item quality checklist, with findings synthesized into defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents. Three key attributes emerged: motivational drivers (career advancement, scholarly identity), barriers (workload, language difficulties, financial constraints, predatory publishing), and facilitators (mentorship, institutional support, collaboration). Antecedents included research competence, supportive culture, and funding availability. Consequences encompassed enhanced productivity and recognition but also risks such as burnout and unethical practices. Empirical referents such as publication count, H-index, and faculty surveys provided measurable indicators. A model case illustrated how mentorship, motivation, and resources interact to shape publishing perspectives. In conclusion, this analysis distinguishes perspectives from mere productivity, offering conceptual clarity and practical insights. Strengthening mentorship, redistributing workloads, providing writing and language support, and ensuring financial assistance are crucial for enhancing scholarly publishing in nursing. These findings inform institutional policy, nursing education, and global research collaboration
Effect of structured physical activity on intelligence in underperforming school students
Get PDFBackground: Poor academic performance in some children often stems from lack of concentration. Traditional measures like extra classes and repeated tests show questionable effectiveness. Exercise, however, may offer an alternative, as it enhances cognitive skills and academic performance. This study aims to examine the effect of structured physical activity (SPA) on intelligence in underperforming school students.
Methods: This experimental study was conducted among VI-X standard students from schools in Komarapalayam, Namakkal district. Eligible participants were 11-15 years old, full-time students from middle or low socio-economic groups. From 220 screened students (168 boys, 52 girls), 50 were selected. After obtaining parental consent, they were randomly allocated into two groups: SPA, n=25; 15 boys, 10 girls and general PA (GPA, n=25; 17 boys, 8 girls). The intervention was integrated into the school curriculum. Outcomes measured were intelligence (Bhatia battery test) and endurance, assessed at baseline and at alternate weeks over an 8-week period. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: The result of the study shows considerable significance in both groups, where there is a remarkable improvement in the SPA group with t value of 7.67 (p<0.005), compared with GPA with t value of 8.44 (p<0.005).
Conclusions: This study concluded that SPA improves the activity on intelligence in underperforming school students when it was compared with regular PA
Risk profile of non-cicatricial alopecia in females
Get PDFBackground: Non cicatricial alopecia (NCA) is a common dermatological problem in female produces greater psychological distress. Understanding the risk factors and associations is essential for comprehensive assessments and effective management of various forms of hair loss. This study has been conducted with the aim to identify the possible risk profile of different types of NCA in female patients.
Methods: A descriptive type of observational study was conducted to find out the risk profile of NCA in females. About 355 females with NCA attending the outpatient department of dermatology and venereology department, Bangladesh medical university, Bangladesh during study period were the study population. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and clinical examinations along with laboratory investigations on all patients.
Results: Among 355 female patients of NCA, age, duration of alopecia and family history of alopecia were significantly higher in patients with FPHL in comparison to patchy and diffuse pattern hair loss patients. Patients with diffuse alopecia had statistically significant association (p≤0.001) with CTD and history of taking OCP, oral steroid and hydroxychloroquine significantly more from the patients with other two patterns of NCA and the blood hemoglobin level was significantly lower in patients with diffuse alopecia.
Conclusions: Diffuse alopecia was the most common type NCA, which was associated with connective tissue diseases (CTD); history of taking OCP, oral steroid and hydroxychloroquine and lower blood hemoglobin level. Age, duration of alopecia and family history of alopecia were significantly higher in patients with female pattern hair loss (FPHL) of NCA
A case report of rifampicin-induced dual adverse drug reaction: pancytopenia and hyperpigmentation
Get PDFRifampicin is a first-line anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug widely used for its potent bactericidal activity. Although generally well tolerated, it can occasionally lead to uncommon adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Among these, pancytopenia and hyperpigmentation are extremely rare and may complicate therapy or cause unnecessary medication non-compliance. We report a case of a middle-aged female receiving anti-TB therapy (ATT) for past one week. She developed pancytopenia and brown patchy hyperpigmentation following rifampicin single regimen re-administration. Rifampicin was promptly withdrawn, and supportive management was provided. Progressive improvement in both hematological parameters and cutaneous pigmentation was observed after discontinuation. Rifampicin-induced pancytopenia results primarily from idiosyncratic or immune-mediated marrow suppression, whereas hyperpigmentation is believed to occur due to increased melanin production or dermal drug deposition. The visible change in the skin caused considerable distress and fear of continuing treatment, necessitating empathy and appropriate counseling to gain the individual’s trust. Health-care professionals should maintain a high index of suspicion for rare rifampicin-induced reactions presenting with simultaneous hematologic and dermatologic features. Early recognition, prompt drug withdrawal, and empathetic patient counseling are vital for favorable outcomes. Reporting even minor adverse effects contributes to pharmacovigilance and enhances awareness of such uncommon presentations
Fixed-dose formulation of nifedipine and lidocaine for the treatment of anal fissures: results from a prospective, multicenter, single-arm and post-marketing observational study
Get PDFBackground: Anal fissures are a common cause of severe anorectal pain and impaired quality of life, most often affecting individuals aged 15-40 years. Combination therapy with nifedipine and lidocaine has shown promise for symptom relief and healing, yet Indian clinical data remain scarce, highlighting the need for real-world evaluation of this fixed-dose combination (FDC).
Methods: This prospective, multicenter, single-arm, open-label, post-marketing observational study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of FDC of nifedipine and lidocaine in Indian patients with acute or uncomplicated chronic anal fissures. The primary effectiveness endpoint was improvement in pain management. Secondary endpoints evaluated improvement in fissure healing, number of rescue medications required, global effectiveness and tolerability to therapy. Safety was evaluated by monitoring adverse drug reactions (ADRs).
Results: Fifty patients (male: female, 39:11), with a mean (SD) age of 43.5 (16.1) years were enrolled. Pain intensity decreased significantly from a mean (SD) of 6.6 (0.8) at baseline to 3.7 (1.4) and 1.2 (1.5), respectively at week 3 and 6. At Week 6, 93.0% of patients achieved complete re-epithelialization, with no requirement for rescue medication. The treatment was well tolerated with no incident of ADRs.
Conclusions: The study demonstrated statistically significant pain reduction along with improvements in fissure healing over 6 weeks of treatment with the FDC in Indian patients. The complementary actions of nifedipine and lidocaine contributed to both symptomatic relief and sustained healing, with no ADRs reported. These findings support its effectiveness, acceptability, and suitability as a non-surgical treatment option in routine clinical practice
Neuroprotective effects of exosome therapy in Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review
Get PDFParkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Current treatments primarily address symptoms but fail to halt disease progression. Exosome-based therapies have emerged as a promising neuroprotective strategy due to their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver bioactive molecules. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of exosome therapy in PD by synthesizing data from preclinical studies. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Scopus. Studies were included if they examined exosome therapy in PD models, evaluated neuroprotective effects and provided clear methodological details. Data extraction focused on exosome sources, experimental models, therapeutic mechanisms and outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using the SYRCLE tool. Twelve preclinical studies met the inclusion criteria. Exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects, including reduced neuronal apoptosis, restoration of autophagy, inhibition of neuroinflammation and enhanced dopaminergic neuron survival. Key mechanisms involved the modulation of signalling pathways (PI3K/AKT, NOX4-ROS-Nrf2 and TLR4/NF-κB/NLRP3). Despite these promising findings, variability in exosome isolation, administration routes and study designs was noted. Exosome therapy exhibits strong neuroprotective potential in preclinical PD models. However, standardized protocols, dose optimization and rigorous clinical trials are essential for translating these findings into viable treatments
Uhl's anomaly: a comprehensive review of pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies
Get PDFUhl's anomaly, a rare congenital cardiac disorder characterized by the absence or severe thinning of the right ventricular myocardium, presents significant challenges in diagnosis and management. This review aims to provide an exhaustive overview of the current understanding of Uhl's anomaly, encompassing its pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies. We delve into the embryological underpinnings and genetic predispositions associated with this condition, highlighting recent advancements in molecular and imaging techniques that facilitate early and accurate diagnosis. Furthermore, we discuss the clinical course, symptomatic presentation, and potential complications, offering insights into the prognostic factors that influence outcomes. Treatment modalities, including pharmacological management, interventional procedures, and surgical options, are evaluated based on contemporary evidence and expert consensus. Through this comprehensive review, we seek to enhance awareness and understanding of Uhl's anomaly among clinicians and researchers, ultimately contributing to improved patient care and outcomes
Molecular characterization and prevalence study of stomach ulcer using standard techniques at Nnewi north local government area, Anambra state
Get PDFBackground: Abnormality in one part of the body is capable of generating pandemonium in all body parts, which interferes with the normal body physiology and standard of living. This study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of stomach ulcer using standard techniques at Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra State.
Methods: Four hundred (400) samples were aseptically collected from participants using a well-capped sterile container and analyzed for the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) using immunochromatographic assay for Stool Antigen Test (SAT) and Blood Antibody Test (BAT), Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay ELISA for gamma Immunoglobulin (IgG) and mu immunoglobulin (IgM)], conventional culture technique on selective Columbia blood agar base plus antibiotic and Vitalex growth supplement (Oxoid, England) was used for isolation of H. pylori. The bacterial isolate was characterized based on cultural, morphological, biochemical, and molecular characteristics [Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)].
Results: The highest number of H. pylori was detected using ELISA technique at Otolo community 48 (24.0 %)] followed by culture technique (CT) at Umudim community [32(16.0 %), while the least was SAT at Otolo community 2 (1.0 %). Molecular characterization revealed certain strains of H. pylori such as H. pylori strain K154 (HPK154) complete genome, Helicobacter pylori strain BS07 (HPBS07) complete genome, Helicobacter pylori strain K93 (HPK93) complete genome, and Helicobacter pylori strain K115 (HPK115) complete genome.
Conclusions: Therefore, the prevalence of stomach ulcer in the sampled communities is high, especially at Otolo community, while ELISA proved to be the best diagnosing technique for accurate detection of Helicobacter pylori
Startle epilepsy triggered by a light bump: a rare case confirmed with ambulatory electroencephelography
Get PDFReflex epilepsy is characterized by seizures triggered by specific sensory or cognitive stimuli, with startle-induced epilepsy being a rare subtype often misdiagnosed due to non-specific findings on routine electroencephalography (EEG). We report the case of a 16-year-old boy with a history of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy who experienced frequent episodes of sudden muscle stiffness, myoclonic jerks, tonic posturing of limbs, and occasional loss of consciousness, consistently triggered by sudden tactile or auditory stimuli such as a light bump. The seizures began at age 11 and fluctuated in frequency, occurring up to 8–9 times per day. Previous magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bilateral temporal gliosis and frontal encephalomalacia, but routine EEGs at ages 12 and 15 were normal, leading to diagnostic uncertainty and ineffective treatment with several anti-seizure medications. A 24-hour ambulatory EEG successfully captured an ictal event triggered by a slight bump, revealing high-amplitude sharp and wave discharges over the bilateral temporal regions with frontal extension. Interictal epileptiform discharges and epileptic K-complexes were also noted. With the confirmation of startle epilepsy, the patient was started on appropriate antiepileptic treatment and advised behavioral modifications, resulting in a reduction of seizure frequency to 4–5 episodes per week. This case underscores the clinical value of prolonged EEG monitoring in cases of suspected reflex epilepsy, particularly when routine evaluations are inconclusive. Ambulatory EEG plays a crucial role in diagnosing rare seizure types and enabling timely, targeted therapy that can improve patient outcomes